February 2017 - Ipswich24

FEBRUARY 2017 Follow us on Twitter: IPSWICH24MAG

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Feel The Love this month

See inside 12 page Wedding Guide

The Suffolk Cruise Show 7th March, Kesgrave Hall, contact us for details

The Luxury Travel Specialist

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

Little Mixers, Jungle Book and Johnny Cash all at The Spa in February Little Mixers, Jungle Book and Johnny Cash all on stage this month February brings a whole host of great shows to the Spa in Felixstowe. You have the chance to step back in time to the golden era of pop music where the jukebox roared and feet didn’t touch the floor with Lipstick on your Collar on Friday 10th February at 7.30pm. Also this month mums and dads bring your Little Mixers to enjoy Black Magic - The Little Mix Tribute Show on Wednesday 15th February at 7.30pm. This show features hits from Little Mix’s first album and X-Factor including ‘Wings’, ‘How Ya Doin’ and ‘Cannonball’. Right up to their current 2016 smash hits ‘Black Magic’ and ‘Love Me Like You’. There’s even a chance to join in with dance competitions, giveaways and you get to meet the girls after the show!

Talking of children The Jungle Book comes to the Spa on Saturday 18th and Sunday 19th February. Great for Wolf-cubs everywhere, Rudyard Kipling’s “The Jungle Book” is getting the Oddsocks treatment! Enjoy the comical adventures of Mowgli the man cub as he battles to survive and become the leader of the pack brought to you by the incredible Oddsocks Theatre Company.

Finally for the grown ups Rick McKay & Starkville bring their totally authentic Johnny Cash show to The Spa...on Saturday 25th February at 7.30pm.

A complete look at the life and music of the Man in Black, Rick and his band perform all of the hits live and in the style intended for them. So much attention to detail has gone into this show

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that WS ‘Fluke’ Holland, Johnny’s drummer in The Tennessee Three, and who has played with Starkville, said, “Rick McKay and Starkville are doing an excellent job of keeping Johnny’s music alive.”

Looking ahead to Spring don’t miss the Legendary Bay City Rollers and Legends of Magic – in fact there’s far too much in the Spa’s new season schedule to fit into this month’s column. To

ensure you are the first to hear of all shows in 2017 sign up for the Spa’s free newsletter via www.felixstowespa.co.uk To book tickets contact the Box Office (open Tue – Sun 11am – 4pm) on 01394 284962. Or, call into their two restaurants open every day until 5pm (plus two hours before each show) and enjoy a meal, a drink or just a wonderfully warming frothy coffee by the sea.

INSIDE THIS MONTH FEBRUARY Firewalk:

How brave are you?

Do you want a challenge? Plus you can help a good cause as well.

Details on an exciting firewalk taking place in Ipswich.

Arts:

This month’s arts round-up includes panto in Woodbridge, news of classic Oscar Wilde, a Classical Music Concert for all the family plus dance and music.

Events

9-11

Weddings:

5 At Home:

In our lifestyle section this month we explore the benefits of having your own wormery in the garden. Plus Sue Hall asks what you love about your life and there’s news on a cooking opportunity to benefit our Heroes.

17-19

12 pages for those planning their forthcoming marriage.

Venues, transport, bridalwear and much more. Plus helpful and useful advice.

Diary:

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

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CENTRE 20-23

Wellbeing:

Our monthly guide to staying healthy in body and mind. Plus health and wellbeing news.

• Potential earning £30,000 plus.

• Full time, part time and • casual positions.

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• Inexperienced & young drivers welcome.

• Flexible shift patterns & various start times • to suit your lifestyle days, • nights & weekends.

• Driver training & CPC available.

• Work directly for Turner’s one of the • leading haulage providers in the UK.

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Potential earnings £30k Club celebrating plus - Drive your new over 72 years of career with Turners model engineering Turners (Soham) Ltd was established in 1930 by brothers Wallace and Frank Turner, is a much respected and market leader within the transport industry, with a wide breadth of expertise within most sectors of logistics Award winning local logistics company Turners (Soham) Ltd have some fantastic opportunities for those wishing to carve out a career in the haulage industry.

The industry acknowledged ‘Haulier of the Year’ is a family owned business with a network of 32 depots nationwide.

At Turners they pride themselves on the customer service with the company’s own motto ‘Delivery on Time and in Full Each Time and Everytime’. They also pride themselves on maintaining motivated staff, always looking to promote the Turners brand.

If you are a like minded individual Turners would like you to join them, with opportunities to join their driving team based at Felixstowe. They offer shift patterns to suit weekday, weekends and night shifts if you prefer. Turners can offer full time, part time and casual opportunities.

For those new to the truck driving industry Turners can help you with all your training needs. Turners is in partnership with local training schools where you train and gain the skills needed prior to joining.

Turners has also implemented a driver mentoring programme to ensure all new drivers are fully supported and guided once qualified.

Inexperienced or experienced Turners will accommodate both, you maybe in a position where you have become disillusioned with your current employer, Turners is keen to hear from you to give you the motivation and satisfaction of doing a job well done with the financial rewards it deserves.

With all this plus a choice of shifts, ongoing training and support and excellent rates of pay now is the time to give Adam Giles a call today on 07792 414025 for more information.

The Ipswich Model Engineers were first formed in 1945 and they are still at their site in Foxhall Road, Ipswich.

The have about 65 members from all walks of life, although it says Engineers in their title you certainly do not have to be one. “I was a long distance lorry driver for 53 years and all I ever made at school was the obligatory, poker, square and a key holder.” Says member Terry, “I joined the Ipswich Club some 35 years ago after moving form Colchester to whose club I had also been a member.

“In the last 35 years I have built four beautiful models and been awarded a Bronze medal for one of them at the London exhibition and a highly commended for another.”

The Ipswich Model Engineers meet every Tuesday evening and, once a member, you can go and use the facilities at anytime.

There is a raised track of approximately 350 feet for 3’1/2” and 5”gauge models with steaming bays. They also have an excellent garden railway that accommodates 45mm and is some 450 feet in length, this allows for G scale, Gauge 1, 16mm and anything else that might run on 45mm track. Electric and steam locomotives use this and the track is complemented with lots of sidings, turntables and an engine preparation area.

Away from the railway side there are members building traction engines, hot air engines, clocks, in fact anything.

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“As most of us are bus pass holders we of course lose some members and we are looking to attract new members even if they are not modellers themselves” continues Terry, “As often recently retired people would like something to do so we would be pleased to welcome gardeners, painters, builders as our club house and garden is always in need of attention, they might then get an interest in the garden railway and give them a reason to get up and help us.”

The Ipswich Model Engineers also hold children’s birthday parties most weekends and they are a joy, as kids nowadays just do not get much opportunity to view steam engines at close quarters, last year was the Club’s best ever year holding 35 parties, everyone highly successful which helped enormously to keep the Club going. Currently the subscription is £38 per year, which is excellent value when one considers the amenities the Club have.

• For further information about The Ipswich Model Engineers you can contact Terry on 07877 193743 or via the email at terrywtel@aol.co.uk.

Firewalking…

New Artist in residence

Are you brave enough?

Do you fancy taking part in the worlds shortest sponsored walk… On fire? If so, then The Lions Club of Ipswich has just the thing for you.

The Lions Club of Ipswich are hosting a Firewalk on Thursday 9th March at The Avenue Theatre, Gippeswyk Avenue, Ipswich, IP2 9AF and would love for you to get involved and risk your feet for charity!

This year Lions Club of Ipswich is working in partnership with the Red Rose Chain Community Project.

The money raised at this amazing event will fund equipment to enable the Red Rose Chain Community Project to continue with their great work in the local area and also to support the Lions Club of Ipswich Charity projects.

The Lions Club of Ipswich is a not for profit organisation which is run entirely by volunteers. The Club helps fund and support various good causes and charities in the local area, helping out when required in whichever way they can. This could be buying a vital piece of equipment, offering manpower or with help and support when required. By taking part in this Firewalk you will also be helping the Lions Club of Ipswich continue to do the work that they do in the community. This work really does change lives.

The Firewalk will be 20 feet in length and, the coals can reach temperatures of 1200°F – more than hot enough to BBQ on!

Over 30 people taking part in the walk, and members of the public are invited to come along on the evening and offer their support. Gates open at 6.30pm and there will be entrainment to keep spectators amused, plus, a licensed bar and food for those that get peckish!

If you would like to take part in this unique sponsored walk then it’s just £25 (and a pledge to raise £150) to enter so sign up now!

For more information and to secure you place, email Lion Neil Bowles suffolkfirewalk@sky.com or telephone Neil on 01394 210377.

The money raised by the Firewalk will be split between the Red Rose Chain Community Project and the Lions Club of Ipswich.

Panto sales were a Beauty!

Ipswich Regent’s pantomime spectacular, Sleeping Beauty, sold almost 20,000 tickets, theatre bosses announced today.

The show, which ran over the festive period to critical acclaim, had bigger audiences than last year and demonstrated that a Regent panto is part of the Ipswich Christmas experience for residents and visitors alike.

Sleeping Beauty starred soul legend Sheila Ferguson and a supporting cast of TV and comic talent that clearly attracted people from all over

the region – one in six customers came from the Colchester area.

Bryony Rudkin, Deputy Leader of Ipswich Borough Council, which runs East Anglia’s biggest theatre, said, “We are very pleased that our latest panto was a big hit with customers. More people are coming to enjoy a top production without having to go to the West End or other more expensive theatres.

“We are already looking ahead to this year’s Christmas pantomime, Jack and the Beanstalk, and I look forward to announcing more details of the show in the coming months.”

Following customer demand, tickets for Jack & The Beanstalk are already selling like, well hot beans. There are also some tickets still available for the Ipswich Easter pantomime, Robin Hood.

So, in the words of one of Sheila Ferguson’s biggest hits, “When will I see you again?” At the Regent Theatre, of course!

A new artist in residence is about to start work at the Ipswich Art Gallery after beating more than 50 other applicants to this sought after post.

Jonathan D Boast will move into High Street this month to help inspire local schools, colleges and community groups to engage with the Eduardo Paolozzi: General Dynamic F.U.N. exhibition.

Suffolk-born Jonathan has extensive experience in public art projects and will also develop his own work in the gallery’s learning studio, where visitors will be able to see and talk to him about his practice.

In addition, a programme of workshop events and activities for children and adults will accompany the exhibition, which runs until 2nd April.

The artist residency is part of Happening on High Street, supported by funding from Arts Council England.

Eduardo Paolozzi: General Dynamic F.U.N is a Hayward Touring Exhibition from London’s Southbank Centre. Sir Eduardo Paolozzi (1924– 2005) was one of the pioneers of the pop art movement in the UK. Born in Scotland, Paolozzi was a compulsive collector and a jumbler of icons.

Paolozzi had close links with Ipswich when he started working with CW Juby Ltd, Alpha Works, Whitehouse Road, who produced a number of his sculptures from 1962-71. He was also a guest lecturer at the Ipswich Art School and opened the present Art School in 1987.

Dad always brought her roses, today was no different It’s the little things that make a funeral special Here for you every hour of every day

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Ford’s Focus

with Daniel Ford

British tennis is not all about Sir Andy Murray When you think of British Tennis one name comes to mind - Andy Murray.

Or, should I say Sir Andy Murray.

His achievements in the sport have been quite staggering and he is rightly worshipped by a nation. However, another remarkable tennis success story hides in his shadow, a player who has made a simply sensational rise and who I feel deserves more credit than she gets. Her name?

Johanna Konta.

It’s the end of 2014; Johanna Konta sits at 150 in the world rankings, her talent is undeniable but serious performance anxiety means that she has been languishing outside the world’s top 100 for the past few years.

Fast forward just over two years, Konta is now ranked 10 in the world, she has just won her second WTA title defeating Agnieszka Radwanska in the final of the Sydney Open,

her form is exceptional, and she is even being tipped as a dark horse to win a grand slam. So what’s changed?

Sport is said to be 80% mental and 20% physical, Konta is the living proof of this. Since working with mental coach Juan Coto she has learnt to manage her expectations and except that she can’t play well every match. This has helped combat her previous issues which centred around her high standards which she was determined to meet at all times. Her mental toughness has never been questioned and Konta’s resilience has been another key factor in her meteoric rise. This is shown by her excellent record in tiebreaks (the third best out of all the women players in 2016). Perhaps most importantly of all is Konta’s seeming lack of fear, she has claimed a number of big scalps including former Wimbledon winner Petra Kvitova.

Nonetheless, no matter how mentally strong you are you can’t win tennis matches unless you have some serious physical attributes. Even in

her time outside the World’s top 100 Konta had an excellent backhand, she continues to use this to great affect and much of her run is down to the brutal power she generates in this shot. More important though is the progress she has made with her forehand; this used to be her Achilles heel and often was the first part of her game to go awry when she was struggling. Hours after hours of practise now mean that although it is by no means a forehand to be feared, Konta knows she can use it to a sufficient level to keep her in rallies and wait to release her humdinger of a backhand.

Sir Andy Murray is the darling of our nation and rightly so, however, if Konta continues her terrific form then you never know we could have some more tennis royalty. She is the living embodiment of how you never know what you can achieve if you are in the right place both mentally and physically. British tennis is in a golden age and hopefully players like Andy and Jo will inspire many future golden generations to.

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

ITFC Legends The ITFC Legends return to the Theatre Royal in Bury St Edmunds, after sell-out events there in 2014 and 2015, for another lively and unmissable evening of stories and anecdotes about the Club and their careers, to entertain fans of ITFC, both young and old!

This time around they are joined again by Bryan Hamilton with special guests David Johnson and Eric Gates. Join them for another superb evening with some of ITFC’s best-loved players for a night of all things football!

This is a fundraising event for Theatre Royal Bury St Edmunds (charity number: 242977) • An Evening With The Ipswich Town Football Club Legends takes place at the Theatre Royal Bury St Edmunds on Sunday 5th February at 7.30pm. To Book tickets contact the Box Office on 01284 769505 or visit www.theatreroyal.org

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Authentic Thai food in centre of Ipswich A family run establishment, the Kwan Thai has provided authentic Thai cuisine since 1999 whilst offering a personal and warm service.

Their friendly staff will escort you to your table and with their chefs, they will make sure to offer an exceptional dining experience throughout your evening.

Bringing a taste of Thailand back to Suffolk, Thai chefs cook authentic dishes using traditional culinary methods. The Kwan Thai’s menu offers a diverse range of flavoursome dishes that will delight and excite your tastebuds. With set menus if you fancy something new and choices from delectable duck and enticing seafood dishes to vegetarian options there’s sure to be a dish you’ll love at the Kwan Thai.

Feel the love at Pennikkity Pots With Valentine’s Day and Mothering Sunday fast approaching, the shelves at Pennikkity Pots are fully stocked with gorgeous ceramic just waiting to be painted for that someone special. Surprise them this year with a truly unique and personal handmade gift that they will treasure forever.

Open seven days a week and ideally located in the centre of Ipswich, Pennikkity Pots is a great place to chill out and get creative. Don’t worry if you haven’t painted pottery before, everyone can enjoy this fun activity and the friendly staff will guide you through the process. Relax in the café with a yummy hot chocolate and a slice of homemade cake, what could be better on a dull grey winters’ day? Your finished masterpiece will be fired on the premises and ready for collection a week later.

Staff will recommend mouth-watering dishes if you’re stuck for choice.

Such as the popular weeping tiger, a flame grilled sirloin steak covered in a succulent marinade and the Kwan Thai recommended starter selection, a perfect choice for those unable to decide between starters.

Like your dish a little fiery? No problem. Just ask a waiter to add more heat to your dish. Dishes are cooked fresh to order and the Kwan Thai will cater to your palate.

Situated just a short walk from the centre of town you can amble into the Kwan Thai after a shopping trip. Or, why not book a meal before a trip to the theatre? With dishes available for takeaway too, the Kwan Thai’s food can be enjoyed from the comfort of home.

The Kwan Thai’s intimate, cosy interior and soft traditional Thai background music makes it a great choice for a romantic evening.

The Kwan Thai are now taking bookings for Valentines Day, call 01473 253106 to book a table for two.

Fancy a family meal?

Can’t be bothered to cook or, if you’re looking for a group booking for a birthday or special occasion?

If so, then give the Kwan Thai a call on 01473 253106

Don’t forget Pennikkity Pots is an ideal half term activity too! There’s no need to book, but if you want to reserve a table they are happy to do so, and you can stay as long as you want. Cut out and keep the discount voucher below plus check out the Facebook for up to date info and offers.

If you have something to celebrate then do it with Pennikkity Pots from Birthday Parties to Baby Showers and Hen Parties they have a package to suit you. Plus, they also go mobile, so the party can come to you, an ideal activity for children’s groups and adults alike. The studio is also open for evening painting on the 1st Friday of every month with creative workshops bi-monthly.

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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

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Five steps to greater happiness in later life The Oddfellows is one of the largest friendly societies in the UK. With more than 200 years’ experience helping people get more out of life, So Ipswich24 thought we’d ask them to share a little of what they’ve learnt along the way.

Step 1 – Keep your brain busy Staying mentally active can increase your brain vitality. At Ipswich Oddfellows they offer a monthly Scrabble Club and plenty of opportunities to try new things.

Step 2 – Help others According to the Royal Voluntary Service, 2.2 million over 60s help out with at least two charities for a greater sense of purpose in life. Oddfellows member volunteers are so important to them and there’s always ways to get involved locally.

Step 3 – Join a local club or society Research shows that older people with a wide circle of friends tend to be happier and healthier. Ipswich Oddfellows’ social calendar offers a variety of events to enjoy, from coffee mornings to cruises!

Step 4 – Get physical There are so many benefits to regular exercise, but did you know it also boosts your mental health? ‘Ditch the slippers’ and join Oddfellows’ activity sessions on Thursday mornings.

Step 5 – Seize the day Forget routine and do more of what you love – meet friends for lunch, visit new places or book a holiday.

To take your first step in getting more out of life, why not give the Oddfellows a try? There’s a warm welcome waiting at your local Branch based at 37 High Street, Ipswich.

• To find out more call us on 01473 251 867 or email ipswichevents@oddfellows.co.uk.

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email: ipswichevents@oddfellows.co.uk

The Oddfellows is the trading name of The Independent Order of Odd Fellows Manchester Unity Friendly Society Limited, incorporated and registered in England and Wales No. 223F. Registered Office: Oddfellows House, 184-186 Deansgate, Manchester M3 3WB

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Company of Four introduce Dick Whittington & His Cat The Company of Four are returning to the Riverside Theatre in Woodbridge this February half term with the traditional family pantomime Dick Whittington & His Cat. The plot is loosely based on the true story of Dick Whittington who became Lord Mayor of London three times back in the 1300’s. Dick Whittington arrives in London with no money, no friends and nowhere to sleep. He helps out the wealthy store owner, Alderman Fitzwarren, who has an infestation of rats in his store cellar. Dick Whittington falls in love with the Alderman’s daughter, Alice, and is offered a place to stay at the store until he finds something a

Concert remembers Karen Carpenter Voice Of The Heart – Karen Carpenter will be at the Theatre Royal, Bury St Edmunds on Tuesday 14th February.

It is now just over 30 years since the legendary Karen Carpenter passed away, she left behind an amazing catalogue of hit songs and golden memories and is still played daily on radio stations throughout the UK. This stunning show celebrates the music of The Carpenters, and the evening is guaranteed to lead everyone through a magical memory.

With superb vocals from Carole Gorrdon and outstanding talent from the brilliant Blue Jeans Band & Singers it will be a “sparkling” night to remember.

To book tickets contact the Box Office on 01284 769505 or visit www.theatreroyal.org

Family Concert – Classical Creatures!

Ipswich Symphony Orchestra is a large and successful local orchestra performing a wide range of classical and popular music with our professional conductor, Adam Gatehouse. Their annual Family Concerts are very popular, with programmes designed to appeal to all ages.

little more permanent. All is going well until he is framed for stealing the Alderman’s takings from his safe. He is sent on his way, but returns when he hears the bells of Bow Church chiming from Highgate Hill, telling him to return to London and seek his fame and fortune.

Dick stows away on the Alderman’s new ship, crewed by a motley bunch of amateurs who have changed the ships name.

Disaster strikes the ship and they all end up on the bottom of the seabed.

They’re rescued and the Alderman’s fortunes are changed when he finds the treasure on the Island.

Pantomime just wouldn’t be pantomime without a baddy trying to the thwart the story, this year is no exception with Queen Rat reigning terror on proceedings. All is not lost though, with the help of the good Fairy and Dick Whittington’s faithful cat, Jangles, the story may just have a wonderful ending with one or two surprises along the way!

Producer & Director Oliver Fosker says, “It’s been an absolute pleasure again to be able to write and direct this year’s pantomime, after the success of ‘Little Red Riding Hood’ last year. It’s a wonderful feeling to see a script come to life from the pages that have been written, and I’m sure our audience’s are going to have lots of laughter, chances to sing, cheer, boo and hiss throughout the performance”.

• The Company of Four’s production of Dick Whittington & His Cat will be at the Riverside Theatre, Woodbridge from the 10th until 18th February. To book tickets contact the Box Office on 01394 382174.

This year the Ipswich Symphony Orchestra have a lively programme of music presenting creatures both very large and very small, including The Lion King, The Whale’s Tale, Flight of the Bumble Bee, Pink Panther, Jurassic Park and much more, and our special guests are brilliant young local saxophonist, Mary Armitage and the choir of Halifax Primary School.

Another highlight of these concerts is the chance for children to come onstage during the interval and see the various instruments of the orchestra, and we love it if they want to try them out! Many youngsters have told us how they were first inspired to take up an instrument after going to one of our Family Concerts!

Ipswich Symphony Orchestra, A Family Concert – Classical Creatures! Will take place at the Ipswich Corn Exchange on Sunday 5th march at 2.30pm.

Tickets (£7 - £10) are available from www.ipswichcornexchange.com, Ipswich Tourist Information Centre and Regent Box Office (01473 433100).

For more information visit www.ipswichsymphonyorchestra.org

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Quite possibly the funniest play ever!

Kicking off the New Year at The Avenue Theatre is a smorgasbord of exciting shows and events. From world-class live music to top names in comedy - Red Rose Chain’s Spring season has something to entertain everyone!

In March, get ready for an unbelievable, immersive tale, guaranteed to delight dapper ladies and gents throughout the land!

It’s Oscar Wilde’s world-famous play – new and re-imagined!

The Importance of Being Earnest tells the story of two bachelors, John ‘Jack’ Worthing and Algernon ‘Algy’ Moncrieff, living in 1890’s England. To escape their boring lives both men use the same pseudonym, Ernest.

Jack and Algy plan to win the hearts of two women, who, conveniently, claim to only love men called Ernest. However, one little lie about what their names are leads to other fibs, mistaken identity and deception, as Jack and Algy struggle to keep up with the pretence of their own stories.

The Importance of Being Earnest is widely regarded as one of the funniest plays in the English language, evoking a sense of the familiar while remaining as sharp as ever.

Joanna Carrick’s interpretation will take you on a surreal journey through the heightened absurdity of Wilde’s words, distorting the lens through which we view the past.

Cucumber sandwich anyone?

Starring Laurence Pears - fresh from his sell-out performances in the West End hits The Play That Goes Wrong and Peter Pan Goes Wrong, alongside Red Rose Chain favourite (Mr Tod, Richard III, Ferdinand/Antonio/Stephano) and Associate Artist, Lawrence Russell - this is a time-travelling treat not to be missed!

• The Importance of Being Earnest runs from 21st March until 9th April at The Avenue Theatre, Ipswich. To book tickets contact the Box Office on 01473 603388 or visit www.redrosechain.com

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DanceEast Centre for Advanced Training

looking for best young dance talent in the East!

DanceEast Centre for Advanced Training (CAT) is looking for children and young people aged from 10 to 18 years who have what it takes to become a worldclass dancer.

DanceEast CAT is looking for individuals who aspire to have a career in dance, who stand out, show drive and determination, are hard working and creative, and above all are committed and passionate.

the Royal Ballet School, to offer children and young people, regardless of their personal circumstances, pre-professional specialist dance training whilst living at home and staying in school. The DanceEast CAT is one of ten national centres that offers this type of training across the UK.

Talented youngsters from across the east of England are being invited to apply for September 2017 entry, and demonstrate their dance talent and potential at auditions at the Jerwood DanceHouse in Ipswich, from Saturday 20th May until Friday 17th June, to earn a place on the DanceEast CAT. The DanceEast CAT has a 100% success rate of graduates continuing to full-time training at conservatoire or university level to study for degrees, diplomas and professional qualifications in dance and performing arts. Past students have gone on to study dance at Arts Educational School, Bird College, Central School of Ballet, London Contemporary Dance School, London Studio Centre, Mountview Academy of Theatre Arts, Northern Contemporary Dance School, Rambert School of Ballet, Royal Ballet School and Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance, to name just a few.

The National CAT scheme was set up as an alternative to residential dance schools, like

The DfE Music and Dance Scheme says, “The aim of the scheme is to help identify and assist children with exceptional potential, regardless of their personal circumstances, to benefit from world class specialist training as part of a broad and balanced education.”

Supported by the Department for Education Music & Dance Scheme, means-tested grants are available and can cover up to 100% of training costs, dancewear and travel. The scheme currently enables around 2,000 exceptionally

talented children across the UK to have access to the best specialist music and dance training available alongside a good academic education.

To apply for an audition, you must fill in an application form online at www.danceeast.co.uk or fill out a paper form which can be found at the back of a CAT prospectus (pick up at the Jerwood DanceHouse on Ipswich Waterfront), application deadline is Friday 5th May 2017. Everyone who applies will be invited to a Stage 1 Audition which involves fun, creative, contemporary and ballet workshops. If you are successful at Stage 1 you will be invited to a Stage 2 audition and interview.

Free Taster Workshops are available in Ipswich, Colchester, Cambridge and Norwich throughout February and March. It is recommended that all applicants attend as parents and guardians will have the opportunity to learn more about the CAT whilst children and young people will take part in a contemporary and creative dance workshop to get a feel for the scheme. Book your place online or call 01473 295230.

Elsa Urmston, DanceEast CAT Manager says, “The key thing to the CAT auditions at DanceEast, compared to TV talent shows for example, is that we don’t set out to judge young people who apply.

We provide a friendly environment and we seek to get as many people involved as possible at whatever level. We are not necessarily looking for a perfect, ready-made dancer, but instead someone who has the passion and potential to excel and succeed.”

APPLICATION DEADLINE FRIDAY 5 MAY 2017

DanceEast Centre for Advanced Training (CAT) is looking for children and young people aged 10 - 18 years who have what it takes to become a world-class dancer.

The CAT is looking for individuals who aspire to a career in dance, who stand out, show drive and determination, are hard-working and creative, and above all are committed and passionate.

11

WARNING as dog theft is on increase Dog theft is on the rise for the fourth year in a row, according to new figures obtained by Blue Cross pet charity.

A Freedom of Information (FOI) request carried out with UK police forces show dog theft crimes risen by a third. The FOI also asked for locations the dogs were stolen from and, despite many owners believing dogs are taken from a public place, the data shockingly reveals over 70% of dogs were stolen from where they live, almost half from within the home itself!

Tricia Scott’s poodle cross Sherbert was taken from her garden on in October. She said, “I can honestly say it’s like I have lost a child. My boys are distraught! The only thing that has kept us going has been

the support from people. It is getting harder as the weeks are going on not knowing if he is being cared for and is happy.”

Blue Cross’s Pet Bereavement Support Service (PBSS) has been helping pet owners for over 20 years with free, confidential support. Each year the charity receives over 8,000 calls and emails from people who have lost a pet, – some as the victim of pet theft.

Diane James, from the Blue Cross Pet Bereavement Support Service said, “We take many calls from owners who are missing their pet, including when a pet has been stolen. We offer support for those struggling to cope with the loss of their pet and give advice to help their children, who can be particularly upset and confused by the loss of their beloved family member.”

Linsey Thomas’s French bulldog puppy Betty was also stolen from the garden. She commented, “Betty was stolen just before my daughter Daisy’s seventh birthday. She has been the most affected by this and refused to have a party or any birthday presents as she just wanted her puppy back.

It’s been tough for us all but Daisy is devastated.”

Over half of pet owners believe thieves target homes to steal the family pet.

Dog breeds stolen over the last two years have included small, fashionable breeds like French bulldogs, pugs, Shih-tzus and Chihuahuas. Most owners believe they are sold on for cash or used for breeding while others believe they are being used as bait by gangs for illegal dog fighting or for reward or ransom. 69% of owners think criminals who steal pets should face harsher penalties than those who steal property such as a laptop of mobile phone.

The Blue Cross offer the following preventative advice: • Make sure you can keep an eye on your dog when they are in the garden and that all fences and gates are secure and in good repair.

• Prevent your dog from sitting in the window or behind a glass door in view of any passers-by • Don’t leave your dog alone in the car or tied outside a shop.

• Take clear photographs of your pet from different angles to help prove ownership if needed.

• Train your dog to come back to you when called, and if you are in a strange place or you are in doubt they will return keep them on an extended lead.

• Beware of strangers asking questions about your dog.

• Make sure your pet has a microchip to increase the chance of being reunited and don’t forget to update your contact details if you move home – now a legal requirement for dogs.

If the worst happens: • If your pet is stolen report the crime to the police.

• Contact your local animal warden and rescue centres in case your pet escapes or is dumped.

• Use social media to get images of your stolen pet in the public domain.

Police advice to secure homes against burglars: • Fit key operated locks to all downstairs and easy to access windows.

• Lock doors and windows every time you leave the house – even when in the garden.

• Hide all keys out of sight and away from the letterbox.

• Install a burglar alarm and good outside lighting.

• Consider joining or forming a Neighbourhood Watch Scheme.

• Consider replacing glass door panels with stronger laminated glass.

The Blue Cross Pet Bereavement support line is open 365 days a year from 8.30am until 8.30pm on Freephone number (some mobile networks may charge) 0800 096 6606 and also by emailing pbssmail@bluecross.org.uk.

Blue Cross is a charity and does not receive government funding. To find out more about the charity’s work, to see pets needing new homes or to make a donation visit www.bluecross.org.uk

12

Health risk to obese pets A combination of snacks, scraps, takeaway leftovers and even booze continues to fuel an obesity crisis among our pets, according to leading vet charity, PDSA. With new data showing that a staggering 5.5 million cats, dogs and rabbits in the UK are being fed treats every day, the charity’s vets are warning owners that they could be drastically shortening their pet’s life expectancy.

Owners have admitted to indulging their pets by giving them fatty, sugary, and in some cases dangerous, foods. These include cake, chocolate, biscuits, crisps, chips, takeaway and even alcohol.

On top of all these unhealthy treats, over 4 million pets (2.6 million dogs, 1.4 million cats and 12,000 rabbits) are fed table scraps or leftovers as their main meals. These diet disasters are taking their toll, according to PDSA, with a third of dogs and a quarter of cats now classed as overweight or obese.

Vet professionals predict that the problem will continue to grow – with 80% believing there will be more overweight pets than healthy ones by 2019.

Sadly, many overweight pets develop potentially life-threatening conditions such as heart disease, cancer and diabetes, as well as debilitating conditions including arthritis as a direct result of being overweight.

To help fight the flab PDSA is inviting owners of overweight and obese pets to take part in the UK’s biggest and most successful pet slimming competition.

“Pet obesity can be tackled, and through a diet and exercise programme like Pet Fit Club we can transform fat pets into fit pets,” said PDSA Vet Vicki Larkham-Jones.

Vicki continues, “Nearly half of pet owners believe that obesity is the biggest threat to animal welfare in the next ten years – yet pets continue to be fed unsuitable diets which is fuelling the problem.

“As well as being high in calories, food like takeaways, cake, cheese, chips and crisps are high in fat and sugars which are bad for our pets’ waistlines and teeth. Some owners even admitted to giving chocolate and even alcohol, both of which are poisonous to pets and can be fatal.

“The good news is that we can make a real difference, starting now.

With the right food and regular exercise, it is easy to keep pets fit and healthy. Over the past 11 years, PDSA Pet Fit Club has helped transform the lives of some of the UK’s most obese pets. Through the competition we have helped over 100 animals lose more than 63 stone and encouraged thousands more owners to make positive changes to their pet’s lifestyle.

Once again we are inviting owners with overweight pets to enter.”

Pet Fit Club is a six-month diet and exercise programme, tailored and overseen by expert PDSA vets and nurses. The charity will select up to 12 overweight dogs, cats and rabbits from across the UK to participate.

Owners can enter their pets today by visiting www.pdsa.org.uk/get-involved/ our-current-campaigns/pet-fit-club/about-pet-fit-club PDSA Pet Fit Club was launched in 2005 and has already helped 74 dogs, 32 cats and six rabbits lose a total 63 stone 11lb - equivalent to over 400 bags of sugar, 6,500 tins of tuna, 7,000 sausages or four heavyweight boxers.

World’s biggest dog show

Crufts – The World’s biggest dog event returns to the NEC in Birmingham this March with almost 22,000 dogs competing this year, including 3,396 dogs from 47 overseas countries including Venezuela, Peru and the Philippines will compete at Crufts.

Crufts is must for the dog lover, with five large halls containing over 400 stands there is everything you can imagine and more for your dog.

Thirty-six show rings, including the Grand arena, Eukanuba Discover Dogs, Dog Activities Display ring and much much more, there is so much to keep you entertained. Crufts really is the one stop shop for everything canine!

Crufts will be televised on More4 from 6.30pm until 9pm on Thursday 10th March and 6.30pm until 7.30pm on Friday 11th March and on Channel 4 from 7.30pm until 9pm on Friday 11th, and 7pm until 9pm on Saturday 12th and Sunday 13th. This will include all of the highlights from the Arena programme. Crufts will also be live on the Crufts YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/Crufts.

The exciting climax of Crufts - Best in Show - will be judged at 8.30pm on Sunday and will be shown live on Channel 4.

• For more information about Crufts and to book tickets visit www.crufts.org.uk

Martlesham 01473 623 661 Rendlesham 01394 420 468 happidayscentre.co.uk

Open 7am to 6pm weekdays, (and 8am to 5pm Saturdays at Rendlesham 13

Every Sunday

Lions Club of Ipswich Car Boot Sale, Portman Road Car Park, Ipswich (Weather permitting), Gates open 8am, Pitch fees - car £5.00, Car & Trailer £10.00, small van (Escort size) £5.00, large van (transit size) £10.00 all payable on entry, Refreshments and toilets on site, Other details visit www.lionsclubofipswich.org.uk 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

Every Monday

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, 02074030888, 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 01473 464920 Ballroom and Latin Class, Goals Centre, Suffolk New College, Grimwade Street, Ipswich, IP4 1LT, 6.30pm - 7.30pm, 01473 251323, 07736306519 Yoga, Sidegate Lane Community Centre, Ipswich, 10am 11am, £3.30 per session, New members welcome, For further information contact: 07773456078 Suffolk Promenaders Square Dance Club Rushmore Village Hall, Humber Doucy Lane, Ipswich, 7.30pm - 10pm, Only £3.00, tea and coffee provided, Contact 01473 415785 or 01473 422663 for further 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

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!

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 Do you have 1 hour for Fun? Music? Dance? Join Jane of Suffolk Keep Fit Association at Woodbridge Community Centre Woodbridge. 9.45am - 10.45am, Contact Jane 07860824747 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, more information from www.orwellpanthers.co.uk 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.

01473 422427 contact Teresa 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, From 10am -12pm, For more information please 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 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,

EVENTS

guide

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 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 Free Volleyball with Ipswich Ravens, 2pm-4pm in Christchurch Park, Beginners or experienced, adults and juniors age 9 upwards, Call or text Steve 07584 636669

Wed 25th Jan

IDHTS Meeting, Salvation Army Citadel, 558, Woodbridge Road, Ipswich, 7pm, The Railways of Durango & Germany, illustrated by Graham Austin, Visitors welcome admission via rear door £3.50 including refreshments, details 01473 414746 / 01473 422145 Bird Watching At Alton Water, Meet at Lemon Bridge Carpark by Alton Water, 9am, £3, A guided bird watching walk for all abilities, A Felixstowe Suffolk Wildlife Trust Group Event, More details contact Dave Langlois, 01394 210535

Sat 28th Jan

Mayor’s Charity Soul Night, Memorial Hall, High Road, Trimley St Martin, 7.30pm, Come and join the Mayor of Felixstowe for a Charity Soul Night in aid of the Mayor’s Charities, withlive music and dancing to DJ Soul, £7.50, tickets available from Lorna on 01394 288193, Wendy on 01394 272521 or Penny on 01394 275073, www.felixstowe.gov.uk

Wed 1st Feb

Wild Tots, Foxburrow Farm, Suffolk Wildlife Trust, Melton near Woodbridge IP12 1NA, 10.30am - 12noon, Outdoor play, exploration and adventure for under 5’s and their carers, £4 per Child, Book online, www.suffolkwildlifetrust.org/, Telephone 01473 890089 Felixstowe Walkers: Old Felixstowe - meet at Brackenbury Sports Centre, High Road East, 10.30am, A winter walk along the cliffs and through The Dip. 2.5 miles, Admission free - although regular walkers will be expected to become members of the Felixstowe Society, Annual membership is £7.00, or £10.00 for two adults at the same address, Further information 01394 275663, www.felixstowesociety.org

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 14

*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

Weddings 2017

Your complete guide to making your Big Day your Perfect Day

Picture supplied by Ufford Park

Professional Hairstyling in your own home

Choosing your w

So, you’re in the process of planning your perfect wedding.

You have the dress of your dreams, but what hairstyle will compliment your gown?

Every bride wants to look amazing on their special day, however with the number of different hairstyles on offer choosing your wedding day hair can be a nightmare!

This is where Chelsea Wray of C L Lydford Hair Design can help.

Chelsea is a professional freelance hairstylist bringing high quality hairdressing to the comfort of your own home.

Specialising in Wedding/Bridal hair Chelsea can help you find that prefect style that really suits you. The talented hairdresser will talk to you about what your requirements are for your big day, and then working with any accessories your may require, will create your perfect look.

And, it’s not just all about the bride, Chelsea can also take care of your bridal party, creating stunning styles for your bridesmaids and, the mothers of the Bride and Groom too if required.

Chelsea offers wedding trials before your big day with prices starting from

£25. These are highly recommended and give you a chance to try out different looks, taking the stress out of your big day.

Then, on you wedding day, Chelsea will create your stunning bridal hairstyle. Being mobile means that she can come to you on your special day, this could be in your home or at a venue of your choice.

With over 10 years salon experience, Chelsea has now built up a successful client base in Suffolk and the surrounding areas, with many satisfied clients leaving lovely testimonials on her website.

For more information about C L Lydford Hair Design and how Chelsea can help you have a stress free morning on the day of your wedding you can contact her on 07950 824 101.

• To see some of the many wedding day hair examples that Chelsea has created you can visit her website at www.cllydfordhairdesign.co.uk

C L Lydford Hair Design When it comes to planning your wedding choosing your wedding dress is probably one of the most important decisions you are likely to make, so it is essential that you get it right.

Every bride has an idea of how they want to look on their wedding day but it is best to approach buying your wedding dress but it is a good idea to keep an open mind and be open to suggestions.

Here are some questions to ask yourself before purchasing your wedding dress. All eyes will be on you as you walk down the aisle, so it’s essential l that you choose the right dress for you!

Define Your Style - what look do you like best? Silk, satin, lace, chiffon, short, long, beads, etc. Before you hit the shops, try and get an idea of what you want. Keep a folder of magazine cut-outs with the highlights of the parts of dresses you like best.

Flatter yourself - choose a style that is best suited to your body type.

Wedding Style/Formality - depending on the type of wedding you are having – Traditional church service, registry office or hotel wedding, be sure to choose a style that fits your venue.

Budget - Yikes! Before you hit the bridal shops, be sure to set a budget on your wedding dress. When you visit a bridal shop, try to find a number of different options within that price range to help you find a dress you’ll love and one that’s easy on the wallet.

www.cllydfordhairdesign.co.uk 07950 824101 chelsealydford@gmail.com ii

Now, lets look at body shape, after all we never look like the models in magazines do we? So her are some tips to help you find a style that really flatters your figure – whatever shape or size you may be…

Are you tall? – A natural or the basque waistline with a V front would be good for this body shape. Dresses with dropped waistlines will also help balance the overall look. Low necklines such as a v-neck, scoop neck, a sweetheart or a square will also

ur wedding dress

help lengthen the torso. A ball gown is also a dress, which will help the tall girl look gorgeous. It has a fitted waist or bodice with a full skirt, which will billow behind as the bride walks down the aisle. It gives a little bit of width and will balance the entire ensemble. A bustle type skirt is another feature the tall girl can wear.

Are you short? — Gowns with an empire waistline are great for this body type.

This waistline is gathered high at the waist underneath the bust. Dresses with a bateau neckline (also referred to as a boat neckline) suits this body type, along with sexy off-the-shoulder or halter necklines. No sleeves, short sleeves or tiny cap sleeves will give the illusion of length and balance this shape nicely.

Stay away from tiers or horizontal lines as this will not suit you. Even a lovely strapless dress with an empire waist and a flowing, fluted hem would compliment the short girl.

Are You Lean? — Glamorous sheath gowns are wonderful for the girl who is on the slim side. They come in variety of fabrics such as satin and matte jersey, which are popular right now. These fabrics show the figure off tremendously. Other lovely fabrics are chiffon and silk. A classic, romantic and contemporary ball gown will also suit the slender lady, which adds fullness to the figure. Empire waists look lovely on the slender body, giving a willowy look, while the A-line skirt would also add a little width.

Are You Pear Shaped? – An A-line skirt is the best way to minimize the hips. Fitted or corset type bodices with the skirt coming down with a flare will balance out this figure nicely. Fitted bodices with embroidery, crystal/rhinestones, pearl designs or lace on the top half of the dress will take the eye away from the hips. Lace up backs will guide the eye up the back. Coloured embroidery on the bodice will also bring attention to the top half of the body instead of the skirt.

Larger Bustline? – A v-neck or strapless dress will minimise the bustline, provided everything is held in with the proper undergarments. Plain or very little detail on the bodice with embroidery, beading or lace on the skirt will avert the eye to the skirt instead of the bustline. Stay away from the empire waistline, as this will only make the bustline look bigger than what it is. The natural waistline would compliment this body shape, as would the v-formation of the basque waistline, pointing downwards toward the skirt giving the illusion of a well- balanced figure.

Smaller Bustline? – A cowl neckline gives the impression of more on the bustline.

Other ways of addressing this area is having detail on the bodice such as tulle, knife pleating, cinched décolleté, ruched or gathered midriff, pleated cuff, lace, shirred gathered twists, sequins and a crossed ribbon sash all help give a fullness to the top half of the body. The empire waistline also helps accentuate this area with crystal/ rhinestone or pearl beading, satin ribbon trim with or without a tiny bow all just under the bustline. The strapless gown can be worn with a good bustier.

Tummy troubles is another area that you may want to hide so try and draw the eye away from there by having a basque sweep across the midriff with tulle or pleating and crystal beading, pinched or ruched up at the curve of the waistline. This accentuates the curvy shape. A gathered sweep with a corset boning also helps hide this flaw and is a bustier all on its own.

Pulling the eye away from figure “flaws” and bringing the eye to some other part of the body is the magic of making the bride look breathtaking on her wedding day.

With a few tips and tricks, the bride can achieve a stunning overall appearance. A confident and happy bride who isn’t self conscious about her figure flaws brings sunshine to the special day.

Leah Bacon

Ashton Jayne Bridal

7 Orwell Road, Felixstowe, Suffolk IP11 7HE

Designer wedding dresses and formal wear Stockists of latest range of Mori Lee & Ronald Joyce dresses

“The best way to appreciate our Dresses is to come and see them for yourself ”

Tel: 01394 278100

Open Tuesday-Saturday 10am-5.00pm and evenings by appointment ashtonjayne@ashtonjaynebridal.com | www.ashtonjaynebridal.com

iii

Alteration Service WIN: Amazing Scissors and Needles, based in St Helen’s Street in Ipswich offer all types of clothing alterations and tailoring.

From wedding and bridesmaid dress alterations to creating wedding garters and wedding rings cushions hand made to order to match your colour scheme, Scissors and Needles are ideally placed to help make your big day perfect.

At Scissors and Needles they are also able to carry out ballroom dress alterations and Swarovski beading, replacement zips and embroidery, as well as being able to create soft furnishings including cushions, curtains, sofa and chair covers.

Also on offer is a full dry cleaning and ironing service, plus, leather repairs and cleaning.

For more information about Scissors Needles telephone 01473 807273 or www.scissorsandneedles.co.uk

and visit

SCISSORS AND NEEDLES CLOTHES ALTERATION, TAILORING, SEWING, DRESSMAKING, EMBROIDERY 6 St. Helens Street,

(opposite Regent Theatre)

Ipswich, IP4 1HJ

eva@scissorsandneedles.co.uk

www.scissorsandneedles.co.uk T: 01473 807273 M: 07748 824128

treatment for brides

Every bride wants to look amazing on her wedding day. You may have found your perfect dress, but are you still worried about having the perfect figure?

Here is where The Budgie Room can help you both look and feel amazing on your wedding day with the nations most talked about treatment - 3D Lipo Med! The Budgie Room 3D Lipo Clinic offers revolutionary non-invasive and non-surgical treatment packages, which are tailored to the client’s requirements, targeting both the face and body. With the most innovative technology, 3D Lipo Med gives amazing results and is used by many celebrities, fast becoming one of the UK’s most effective instant fat loss treatment.

3D Lipo isn’t just for the bride who’s looking to slim down to get into that perfect wedding gown, the treatment is also very popular with men. Maybe you’re the groom with fat pockets you’d really like to shift before your big day arrives.

The Budgie Room offers effective and affordable treatments for cellulite reduction, instant fat reduction and skin tightening for both your body and face and, fat freezing, to help you achieve the body you dream of.

The Budgie Room are also proud to be one of the limited suppliers Skinade. This award winning super drink contains all natural ingredients and delivers amazing results for troubled skin conditions.

Skinade can even ‘turn back time’ when it comes to those fine lines and wrinkles! In just 30 days of taking Skinade clients have reported better skin and a more even complexion.

The photographs taken on your wedding day are the memories that last forever, ensure you look the best

PRIZE COMP you possibly can and take a visit to the Budgie Room.

The Budgie Room 3D Lipo Clinic can be found at 12 Rendlesham Mews, Rendlesham, near Woodbridge.

For more information about 3D Lipo and the many other treatments on offer telephone 07498 345617 or visit www.thebudgieroom.co.uk.

— COMPETITION —

The Budgie Room has teamed up with Ipswich24 to offer the chance for one lucky bride to win a fat freezing treatment of their choice in the run up to their wedding. To be in with a chance of winning this amazing prize just send your answer to the following question, along with your name, address and a contact number to: The Budgie Room Wedding 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 Tuesday 28th February 17.

Q What is the revolutionary non-invasive and nonsurgical treatment that The Budgie Room offers for effective instant fat loss?

With this password, I thee wed…

Over half of spouses share passwords but friends and children are trusted the least.

It’s just as well that divorce levels are at their lowest in 40 years as over half of people (52%) share passwords with their spouse or partner. This is according to a poll of IT professionals by Centrify, the leader in securing enterprise identities against cyberthreats.

The same poll found that friends and children are trusted the least with more people prepared to hand a password over to a colleague (20 percent) or other family member (20 percent) than to friends (4 percent) or children (4 percent).

Considering that a quarter of people (26 percent) have more than 30 passwords, but that most people (33 percent) can only remember between two and five, keeping track of passwords is a challenge.

“Sharing passwords may be tempting, but who knows what the future may bring,” warns Barry Scott, chief technology officer, EMEA, Centrify. “The people who know us the best are also the ones best placed to guess our passwords, from our favourite football teams to our childrens’ or pets’ names or the schools we attended. For those living with someone who may be lacking in imagination, there’s even a probability that the dreaded ‘PASSWORD’ password is in use somewhere.”

“Passwords alone are no longer fit for purpose which is why the industry is starting to shift to multi-factor authentication, such as combining a password with biometrics.

This means that while your partner may gaze into your eyes to capture your heart, they won’t be able to get your log-in details.” iv

Picture Perfect – preserving your big day memories

O

ne of the most important things that you should have booked for your wedding day is the wedding photographer. The wedding photographer can capture all of the memories of your special day, memories that will last a lifetime.

Think about it: when you look back upon your wedding day, you are going to be looking at the pictures you have of it. Other than the photographs, the only other thing you will have of the day is your own memories. This is why good pictures taken by an experienced, talented, professional, and reasonably priced photographer are definitely necessary.

When you start out your search for the perfect wedding photographer, one of the first things you should consider is the attitude of the photographers that you meet.

Attitude can mean everything, especially when it comes to your wedding photos. If your wedding photographer has an overwhelming and bossy personality, and you can tell this on a first meeting with him or her, you are best to move on to someone else. Think about it: do you want to be bossed around and told where to sit, stand, and go all day long on your big day? Chances are, your answer to this question is “no”.

So, try to find a wedding photographer who is easy to talk to, work with, and who takes photos of you enjoying your wedding day.

Another key thing you should research before picking a wedding photographer is his or her portfolio. It is of the greatest importance that you carefully examine the portfolios of the photographers that you are interested in.

From this point, you can see first hand how

he or she handled someone else’s wedding. You can get a feel for the photographer’s style and level of talent, and see if it matches what you are truly looking for. When checking out a wedding photographer’s portfolio, it is your opportunity to ask as many questions as possible.

For instance, you can find out if the photographer has different photo packages and if so, how much each one costs. By asking questions, you can also determine if the photographer will take any special or particular pictures you may want to have included in your photography package.

Another important thing to consider when choosing a wedding photographer is his or her reliability. For example, if the photographer is taken ill right before your wedding, is there a replacement photographer or will you be left with no one to take your photos. It is always a good idea if your wedding photographer has some kind of backup plan. Although the day will most likely run smoothly, it usually isn’t worth taking any unnecessary chances!

Last, but not least, be sure that your wedding photographer will take photos in the price range that fits your wedding budget. Remember that the most expensive photographer doesn’t necessarily mean the best photographer.

Making sure your big day is a “good hair day” Every bride wants to look their absolute best on their wedding day, and having the perfect hair is no exception. It can be easy to overlook this detail, but having a great hairstyle on your big day not only completes your look, but will make you feel confident and beautiful—which is how every bride should feel.

Joanne Parsons of Joanne Marie Hair understands this only too well, with over 10 years of salon experience, she has the expertise to help you both look and feel your best on your big day, and, Joanne is happy to travel to your venue/location of your wedding on the morning of your special day.

Joanne is a self employed hairdresser who is state registered with The Hair Council.

She has a home-based salon in Ipswich and specialises in all aspects of ladies hairdressing including colouring, cutting, styling and bridal/occasion hair.

And it’s not just the bride that a can benefit from Joanne’s excellent hairdressing skills, She also caters for both men’s and children’s hair too meaning that she really is the one stop shop for your whole bridal party.

For more information about Joanne Marie Hair or to make an appointment telephone 07941 635290 or visit www.facebook.com/JoanneMarieHair

JJJJJJ MMMMM Hair

— Over10 years experience —

Specialising in all aspects of Ladies Hairdressing including Colouring, Cutting, Styling and Bridal/Occasion Hair Also catering for Gents and Children.

Ipswich-based home salon, available Monday-Saturday — Call to book your appointment —

07941 635290 v

Getting ready to say “I Do”!

THE Wedding Fayre…! has all the inspiration for your Perfect Wedding.

Lots of couples became engaged over Christmas and New Year and of course February is traditionally a very exciting time with many brides saying “Yes!” to marriage proposals.

“So let us help you get totally organised for your own happy ever after” says organiser Sharon Donaldson

Sunday 29th January THE Wedding Fayre…! hosts a well-established event at the very popular Stoke by Nayland Hotel Golf and Spa. They now offer smaller ‘Boutique Weddings’

in their Country Lodges as well as larger celebrations, all set in 300 acres of rolling Suffolk countryside THE Wedding Fayre…! aim for 35 stands and two excellent fashion shows to inspire you.

On the 5th February Trinity Park - the glorious Suffolk Showground hosts one of the biggest and best wedding fayres in the region with up to 60 superb stands in this gorgeous contemporary venue.

Plus, there will be two fabulous catwalk shows at 12.30pm and 2.30pm with

great lighting and music. This is THE Wedding Fayre…! 13th fantastic year – don’t miss it!

“On the 19th February we will be at Copdock Hall. This unique Tudor Barn is full of charm and atmosphere in delightful grounds and since its launch has been in great demand. Due to the show’s popularity we have expanded the fayre with the addition of a heated, carpeted marquee from Barry Dye Entertainments.” says Sharon.

At all fayres you will receive a free glossy Showguide with a Budget Planner, an indispensible Year Wedding Planner and Fridge Magnet, free Wedding Magazines and Goody Bags on arrival, free bottles of Bucks Fizz to

be given to the first 20 brides and free Bottles of Beer to the first 20 Grooms who arrive after 1pm plus delicious catering and bar.

THE Wedding Fayre...! has all the ingredients for a truly enchanting and memorable wedding. Do come along, you’ll be sure of a warm welcome.

A stylish and fun day out Come and be inspired!

THE Wedding Fayre...! has been running inspirational wedding exhibitions for over 16 years and aim to present vibrant, inspiring, well organised fayres at some of the very best wedding venues in the region.

Help with changing your name – after your wedding B

ased in Billericay Essex, Wedding Name Change has extended the UK online Bridal services to provide brides and couples with a modern and efficient method to inform companies of their name change.

Currently, the process is done by pen and paper and often takes couples many weeks to complete. No more – Wedding Name Change brings a revolutionary, hassle free and cheap alternative that will completely change the way couples register.

The UK Wedding market is worth £10 Billion annually while the average couple spends nearly £21,000 on their special day to enjoy with closest Family & Friends.

For a minimal fee the team at Wedding Name Change will take a large amount of confusion and work away; this service can also be added to your wedding gift list. The team are proud to assist brides and couples with the knowledge that they will save them hours of time and effort that can be spent relaxing as the new Mr & Mrs. Gary Tilley, Founder and Managing Director of WeddingNameChange said, “My wife and I heard of the stresses and aggravations newlyweds had when informing the many businesses of a name change after their wedding, we soon learnt their stories were all correct when we got married! It was then that my idea of Wedding Name Change was born to take action and improve this tiresome and dated task for all to benefit from.

“We will look forward making the life of future married couples that little bit easier and stress free!” www.WeddingNameChange.co.uk vi

10 Things to think about for your wedding

After the initial few weeks of feeling on top of the world after you have decided to get married, it is then time to get down to the real hard work and actually start planning your big day. There is so much to organise, book, sort and decide that it can all get a little bit overwhelming, especially when you look at the financial costs as well.

Below, we take a look at our top ten things to think about when planning your wedding, taking a look at the things you really need to get straight in your mind to make your big day a massive success.

1

Location – If you have family spread out over the country then choosing a location that everyone, including yourself, is happy with is going to be a nightmare. Many people will either get married in their home town or go back to a place they used to live, with thousands of possibilities and locations for you to choose from. The amount of people getting married abroad has risen in the past ten years, with travel and accommodation getting cheaper, but this is something that might not suit all of your guests.

Venue – From Churches to Football Stadiums, you can literally get married anywhere these days so you will not have a problem when it comes to finding a venue, unless you leave it too late of course. Although churches are still one of the most popular places to get married, many more people get married in hotels, marquees and other readily available places these days.

2 3

Accommodation – If you are going to hang around before shooting off on your honeymoon then you will need accommodation and so will your guests, so you need to try and sort out a range of options for everyone to stay. If you go for a luxury hotel then you have to bear in mind that some of your guests might not be able to afford this, so it’s well worth offering a range of options that everyone can afford to stay over should they want to.

4

Catering – With so many medical conditions, allergies and fussy eaters, catering for all of your guests has never been harder, so this aspect of your wedding might involve you having to really spend some time thinking about it. You also need to think about whether you will have a sit down and served meal or whether a self service buffet might fit your requirements better and with so many options to choose from this could take some time!

Insurance – Many people over look wedding insurance and yet it is crucial you at least consider having this kind of insurance and have a look at some quotes. A good insurance product can help to protect many things with regards to your wedding, including cancellation costs, any damage that occurs and also if any of your third parties should go bust before your big day.

5 6

Guests – When you have decided how many people you will be inviting, you then need to sit and down and work out who is coming, where they are going to sit, what they are going to eat and all the other minor decisions you have to make when holding any kind of event like this. Many people will invite a selection of people to the wedding and then more people to their evening party, as this helps

to keep the cost down and means you do not have to have a huge venue for your actual wedding.

7

Presents – Most weddings have a “wish list” where the guests can go along and choose a present that the bride and groom actually want, which can stop them ending up with ten toasters and three cushions. Most leading department stores offer a wedding list service which allows guests to buy a present and when that present is purchased it is removed from the list, meaning the happy couple only get what they really want.

8

Wedding Apparel – The brides dress and the groom’s suit needs to be purchased and the bridesmaids all need to be dressed in clothing that you want for your big day, so this is something else that needs to be organised. Gone are the days when you need to spend thousands on a wedding dress, with many of the supermarkets and department stores now offering cheaper alternatives that still look amazing.

9

Transport – You need to decide how the bride and family will be getting to the place where you are due to be married. Will you be going for a traditional limousine or are you going to have a full blown horse and cart solution? No matter what kind of transport you opt for, it is vital that you book it early to get the best choice and also try to get an early booking discount.

10

Rings – Don’t forget to buy the rings! To symbolise the joining together of two people, it is traditional to swap rings at a wedding, which is normally at the closing end of the wedding ceremony. There are hundreds of shops that you can buy jewellery from, but do go and make sure they fit perfectly first else it could be a tight squeeze when it comes to placing them on the fingers on your wedding day.

Ian Spencer

“It’s your day, and your flowers should reflect your style.”

• Bouquets • Table Displays • Corsages • Buttonholes

Call Lucy on 07917 573175 www.lacefloristry.co.uk

10% OFF final bill when you quote ‘Ipswich24’ vii

Arrival in style

Your wedding day is one of the most important days of your life and will be the culmination of many months planning.

At BCD Wedding Cars they can help you plan your wedding car arrangements and create a package to suite your individual requirements and your budget from their range of luxury wedding cars.

The company offer, as standard, a uniformed chauffeur driver, a wide selection of ribbon colours and silk flowers that can be matched to your personal choice, plus, after ceremony, the bride and groom can enjoy complimentary chilled champagne for the bride and groom.

And, with a wide range of vehicles on offer including a vintage Rolls Royce, a Chevrolet Tourer, an Armstrong Siddeley, a Mecedes Avantgarde and a Silver Shaddow Mark II to choose from, you will certainly arrive for your big day in style.

For more information about the many cars on offer contact BCD Cars on 01473 218234 or visit wwwbcdcars.co.uk

The Red Rose Chain Savvy Wedding Show

The Savvy Wedding Planner is very excited to be working with Red Rose Chain for the next Savvy Wedding Show.

The Savvy Wedding Planner loves to support local charities and help them showcase their venues and is very excited to be working with Red Rose Chain.

It is an event not to be missed with a selection of Suffolk’s finest wedding suppliers in this unique Suffolk Wedding Venue.

Red Rose Chain are an award-winning, independent, not-for-profit theatre company which runs vital community projects alongside their professional productions and acclaimed education programme, so always have lots of things going on!

The Savvy Wedding Show will be making the most of the theatrical resources with a mock ceremony and party room.

Brides and grooms will be able to get a real feel for how their wedding day could be at this unique venue.

There will be a prize draw for a chance to win some fantastic wedding prizes with all money raised going to Red Rose Chain.

Refreshments will be available from the café.

Keep an eye out for updates on the Facebook event page, on twitter and on website www.savvyweddingplanner.co.uk. For all enquiries about the wedding show please contact The Savvy Wedding Planner via email savvyweddingplanner@outlook.com or call 07453 571 541. Any queries relating to room hire with Red Rose Chain contact rachael@redrosechain.com

The Savvy Wedding Show takes place at The Avenue Theatre, Gippeswyk Hall, Gippeswyk Avenue, Ipswich, on Sunday 5th March from 11am until 4pm. Free entry and free car parking

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Five Ideas for Creative and Unusual Wedding Cakes

A

s the centerpiece of your reception, wedding cakes are a bride’s opportunity to make a major style statement. But many brides don’t particularly like the taste of wedding cake, and some simply prefer to serve something a little more distinctive for the dessert course.

Looking for something different? Browse these ideas for a refreshing spin on the traditional wedding cake.

1. Break the Mould

Cupcakes and doughnuts are trendy alternatives to traditional wedding cakes, but good old jelly might be the most creative new option. When moulded into cake form with a touch of class and ingredients like tropical fruit, champagne, and lychee, the family picnic favorite can be transformed into an elegant and refreshingly light treat perfect for a summer or outdoor wedding. Plus, it’s bound to be an instant conversation starter. Love the idea?

Present it to your caterer to recreate it.

2. Wedding Cakes Made of Cheese

Scattered plates with barely nibbled pieces of wedding cake are an all-too-familiar sight at receptions. If you want to serve a dessert your guests will actually eat, consider a wedding “cake” made of cheese. Literally a cake made of cheese stacked in tiers and decorated to look like a wedding cake. Adornments like foliage, grapes, berries, nuts, and flowers transform a creamy Lancashire or unpasteurized cheddar into an elaborate wedding cake that can match your decor scheme.

Designer Bridal in Needham Market

Bride of Beauty, a quaint little bridal boutique in the characterful Tudor town of Needham Market.

Packed full of stunning wedding dresses from top designers such as Ronald Joyce, Victoria Jayne, Madeline Gardner, Alfred Angelo and Alan Hannah with a wide range of styles and designs all made to the upmost quality, as well as beautiful bridal accessories such as veils, jewellery, hair accessories, lingerie and more by Poirier, Ivory & Co, Bianco Evento and Perfect.

Now in to their third year, Bride of Beauty pride themselves in offering a warm and friendly welcome to all their customers in a relaxed and non pushy atmosphere. Giving advice when needed on any part of your bridal wear, including petticoates, to ensure you are

3. Blinged out Baked Goods

When it comes to wedding day bling, bejeweled brides have some competition.

Now your cake can don jewellery too!

That’s right, the latest adornments to hit wedding cakes are handmade Swarovski Crystal Cake Jewellery. Design a sparkilicious cake bedecked with crystal monograms, hearts, flowers or butterflies.

4. Flavourful Fountains Chocolate fountains in lieu of wedding cakes have been done. So put a new spin on the chocolate fountain with a colourful, flowing display of fruit coulis, which is that powerfully tangy syrup made from raspberries, mangoes, or other fruits and often comes drizzled over something like a flourless chocolate cake. In its fountain form, dip brownies, shortbread, and other cakes and cookies for a sweet, fruity treat.

5. Cake Fake Out

If you like the look of iced tiers, but want something truly surprising, have rich, velvety gourmet cheesecakes stacked and decorated like a traditional wedding cake.

Your guests will be none the wiser until it is time to slice up.

Cori Russell

fully kitted out and happy with your choices.

With the latest designer collections coming in regularly and prices ranging from as little as £250 from their destination range, to £2500 at the top end of designer wear, they have dresses to suit every taste and budget.

Although open from Tuesday through to Saturday it is always better to book an appointment on 01449 722248 or you can email them at brideofbeauty@gmail.com. You can also ‘Like’ them on Facebook to be kept up to date with any offers or promotions. More details can be found on www.brideofbeauty.com

Set on the Ipswich Waterfront, Isaacs on the Quay offers a perfect location for your wedding day.

Views of the waterfront and historic indoor features make for stunning photographs. Isaacs on the Quay is a venue that will both wow your guests and make your day extra special. We are a venue that is unique to you, from the Ceremony Room to the Reception Rooms they are all filled with unique character and charisma.

Bride

Beauty

Designer Bridal Wear & Accessories

Opening March 2017 at Kersey Mill, Kersey, Suffolk brideofbeauty@gmail.com www.brideofbeauty.com

Thanks to Gina Manning Photography

of

o Isaacs on the Quay offers a magical location for your wedding day. Situated close to the town centre, we are easily accessible from all major routes and the train station is only a 20 minute walk away.

If you can't wait to tie the Knot and would like a quick stress free wedding, Isaacs on the Quay are offering 20% off Hire (only) if you marry within 12 weeks or less from the date of booking (subject to date availability)

Please contact our dedicated wedding and events team for more information on 01473 284000(option 1) or email weddings@isaaclord.org ix

Weddings at The Centre Weddings at Kesgrave Community and Conference Centre - The Venue for all occasions and events

Set in twelve acres of land, Kesgrave Community and Conference Centre is a spacious and attractive venue within close proximity of the local church and easily accessible from the A12 and A14 trunk roads.

Help File

Wedding Day Survival Kit

As your big day draws near you need to know what essentials to have ready to avoid last minute stress and rectify any problems. Here is a list of the items essential for your wedding day survival kit. Then you can relax and enjoy your day knowing that you have everything covered.

Tissues – Your wedding day is one of the most emotional days of your life, so have some tissues to hand. Make sure your mum has some too!

White Chalk – If you were to stain your wedding dress you can use white chalk to conceal it. For other colours and bridesmaids dresses take a mixed pack with you.

Plasters – Always a good idea to have some to hand, and they provide relief if new shoes are rubbing.

Your Wedding suppliers mobile numbers – Just in case there are any problems have these to hand so that they can be quickly dealt with.

Scissors – Take a small pair of scissors in your kit so that you don’t break a nail (or a tooth) trying to rip any packages open.

Wet Wipes – Easy and effective for dealing with spills and cleaning or refreshing hands. There will no doubt be a lot of congratulatory hand shaking going on so these are a quick way to keep fresh.

Safety Pins – These are a must so that if there were to be any problems with the suits or dresses they can be quickly rectified. Likewise hairpins will come in handy unless your hairdresser leaves you a supply.

Whether you are looking for a reception venue, the perfect location for a celebrant ceremony or seeking to combine the two, The Centre offers flexible catering options, a fully licensed bar, a beautiful garden area and a choice of five function rooms suitable for an intimate gathering of 25, a larger celebration for up to 250 guests, or if you prefer you can have exclusive use of the whole venue for your special day.

The Centre boasts easy to get to and free parking, and the friendly professional staff are always on hand to help you plan your perfect day.

At The Centre they can also cater for hen parties and stag parties, engagement parties, in fact The Centre is ideally placed for any celebration.

With its attractive, peaceful location Kesgrave Community and Conference Centre makes the ideal venue for your big day.

Kesgrave Community and Conference Centre can be found at Twelve Acre Approach, Kesgrave, for more information about this great venue and the facilities on offer please call 01473 612648 or visit www.kwmcc.co.uk A Spring Wedding Show will be taking place at The Centre on Sunday 21st May 2017 from 11am until 3pm.

Weddings at The Centre The Venue for all occasions and events

THE BENEFITS OF CHOOSING THE CENTRE Choice of five function rooms Easy to get to and free parking Licensed bar and flexible catering options Friendly professional staff Attractive, peaceful location

For more information 01473 612648 or visit www.kwmcc.co.uk Kesgrave Community and Conference Centre (KWMCC) Twelve Acre Approach, Kesgrave, Suffolk IP5 1JF

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Make Up – Don’t forget your essential concealer and lipstick, along with make up remover and cotton wool.

There is only one other thing to recommend having with you – a big smile!

Budgeting for Your Special Wedding Day

Getting married is still very much in vogue and with so much choice available for when where and how to get married, with careful planning you should be able to guarantee that your wedding day will indeed be a very special day.

Budgeting for that special wedding day is important as you could run up bills amounting to many thousands of pounds. Decide what you budget is at the outset, stick to it and don’t be swayed and end up spending more than you can afford.

Some of the biggest expenses will arise from the cost of the wedding attire with the bridal outfit accounting for a substantial sum of money. On top of that will be the costs of bridesmaid dresses, flowers, corsages and suit hire or purchase for the groom and best man. The wedding rings for the bride and groom will also be costly purchases, as will the gifts for the bridesmaids and mums. The gifts given to the bridesmaid are usually pieces of jewellery and mums usually get lovely big bouquets of flowers.

Decide on how many people you are going to invite and then look at potential venues and catering costs and explore the alternatives. You don’t have to have a costly formal sit down meal when a more relaxed buffet style function may better suit your needs. If you do opt for formal you may choose to limit the number of people at the formal sit down meal to limit costs and then invite more guests to an evening buffet disco.

If you are getting married in church you will need to arrange some form of transport and there are many options such as Rolls Royces or maybe a horse drawn carriage.

The time of year that you are getting married may dictate many of the above, for instance you may not want arrive at a marquee in the middle of winter with the real likelihood of bad weather affecting your arrangements.

These days you can just about get married anywhere you choose and it doesn’t have to be in a church so you may be able to get married in the same venue where you are holding the reception. This will cut down on transport costs and you may get a better deal all round with an all inclusive package. Whether you choose a romantic castle in the Highlands of Scotland, a magnificent stately home or something more modest, remember stick to your budget and don’t be tempted to overspend.

Organising a wedding can be a very stressful affair but there are usually plenty of people that will be willing to help such as friends and family as well as wedding organisers if you want to leave everything to a professional. There are also many ways that you can get the information that you need to ensure your wedding day goes smoothly and to plan.

Whatever you decide, good luck, have fun, enjoy and make you wedding day a very special day.

John Lewis

A Day to Remember A wedding day is a wonderful, joy-filled celebration, and one which a bride and groom can treasure forever as one of the best days of their lives.

Having said that it is also in the top ten of stressful life events. It is the importance of the day that makes it such a stressful one - the importance of making a life-long commitment between two people, in front of closest family and friends – and it is one that requires a lot of planning.

Many people have an expectation of what their wedding day will look like, what will happen, who will be there and even what they might eat on the day. Having a dream and then turning it into a reality is never as straightforward as it sounds so getting some professional guidance can really help.

Deciding a budget and choosing the venue for a wedding are among the first of many decisions a bride and groom need to make. They might decide they want to marry in a marquee in their back garden or they might choose a venue that can provide advice, support and alleviate some of that inevitable pressure.

If that’s not what you fancy, then consider our Day Spa Experiences.

With a wide range of beauty treatments available, given by highly trained beauty therapists, a visit to Ufford Park’s Day Spa can be an integral part of your wedding preparations.

The beauty of choosing a wedding venue such as Ufford Park, is that you are given a dedicated Wedding Coordinator. They not only take the stress away but they can do as little or as much as you need them to. They do this for a living so they are experienced and they know all the tricks of the trade. Where they really come into their own is if something goes a little awry. Then they’ll know just how to fix it and can probably fix it without anyone even realising that there was a hiccup at all.

Your wedding is a truly special day. So sit back, relax and enjoy it. With Ufford Park, you can have your day under control, and with your guidance, our Wedding Coordinator can help you create the best day of your life.

For more information, please contact the Wedding Coordinator on 01394 383555 ext.302 or email weddings@uffordpark.co.uk

If you are in this position and choose Ufford Park as your wedding venue, they can offer you all the support and guidance you might need. Their unique wedding packages allow you peace of mind in managing your budget as there will be no unexpected costs. All prices are per person and include the following: • • • • • • • • •

A designated Wedding Coordinator to help plan your day Informal hosting on your wedding day All white table linen, crockery and cutlery Red carpet on arrival Silver cake stand and cake knife Attractive grounds and back drop for your wedding photographs Complimentary Premier room and breakfast on the night of your wedding* Discounted accommodation rates for guests* - including use of Health Club.

Ample complimentary on-site parking

*Terms and conditions apply. Subject to availability.

Ufford Park is also a great venue for those all-important pre-wedding celebrations – the hen and stag parties. They have an all-weather driving range and the new adventure golf course Congo Rapids Lost World, which is open 364 days a year for families and groups of all ages.

xi

Wedding Speeches that leave them speechless The wedding has been planned down to the smallest detail.

The menu is delicious, the photographer is all set up, and the wedding favors picked out.

There is a personal touch on everything from the wedding décor to the unique wedding favors. It is now time to sit down and write that wedding speech you have been dreading. If you are the groom, the best man, the bride’s father, or just a guest with something to say, you will want to make the perfect toast

and a small speech that will blow them away. Here is how.

Anatomy of a Speech

The main focus of speech writing is to make sure you do not come off as a complete idiot. Fumbling, bumbling, and stumbling for words like an illiterate, three-legged elephant is not what you want captured on the wedding tape to be viewed and laughed at one or twice a year for the rest of your life. What you want is an honest, intelligent, and warm-hearted speech filled with sentiment, hope, and sincerity. T his is not always easy, especially if you are not someone who is known for your oration or writing skills.

The first step in any speech is to plan it out. Figure out the key elements that you want to touch on and make a list of them.

Tackle these points individually and dedicate two or three sentences to each point. It is okay to speak about individual people as long as you do not alienate anyone. For instance, if you speak about the fine job the brides mother did in raising such a refined lady, say something just as nice about the father as well. If you speak about the bride’s parents, say something for the groom’s folks as well.

Once you have the key points clearly defined, write your speech.

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If you are the nervous type that falls apart in front of crowds, start with some mild humour or a good, wholesome joke. Keep it clean. Remember that the guests will probably represent many types of personalities and some people are easily offended. Try to keep your humour on the clean, playful side.

You can allude to the fact that if you are the best man, why this beautiful bride is marrying the groom instead of you is confusing. Once you get a good chuckle and realize that everyone is more interested in what you have to say rather than how you look saying it, you should be just fine.

It is always a good idea to give credit where credit is due. You might mention what a great job everyone did in planning, preparing, and carrying out the wedding and reception. Be thankful and try not to leave anyone out. Thank the bridal party, the wedding planner, if there is one, and if you are the best man, don’t forget to thank the bride and groom for trusting you with the

responsibility of the role. Let them know how honoured and privileged you feel about your part in the ceremony.

Briefly speak on a good quality of both the bride and the groom. If you are the best man, the groom thinks very highly of you and you should let him know how much you appreciate him. Let the bride know how grateful you are that your best friend, for whom you want nothing but the best, found the best.

Keep your speech short but not too short. A five-minute speech is about right for the best man.

Close with a good sentiment for the future. Wish the bride and groom the very best that life has to offer. Feel the words and let the sincerity flow. Writing a good speech is the easy part. If you go slowly and take your time with your delivery, you will have a fantastic speech that everyone will remember for all the right reasons.

Aaron Hu

Warning for brides to be…

It is not always a good idea to try and save money on your wedding gown by purchasing your dress via the internet. By buying your dress though a non authorised brand name retailer you could end up receiving a counterfeit gown of much lesser quality that looks nothing like the original sample.

Many Bride’s dreams have turned into nightmares after they have purchased their dress at “discount prices” from unauthorised internet sellers. The dresses often arrive damaged, faulty, and are counterfeit fake copies. And, in some cases the bride does not receive a dress at all!

So how do you avoid the heartache of buying a counterfeit wedding gown?

Well, if you are buying from a shop and the dress of your dreams costs much less money than you would expect to be paying, then unless there is a very good reason for it – like it’s the end of a line, or last seasons design, it is most likely a fake!

Also, many unauthorised web stockists will show pictures of the real thing on their sites, dresses are photographed with underskirts etc, however, when you receive the dress it is quite often unfinished and of poor quality.

Fake dresses are often made very poorly, with substandard materials and may not last out you big day. The last thing you want is a seam splitting or your crystals falling off as you say I do…

In order to find the dress of your dreams, it is best to go to a reptutable retailer and try on lots of different styles. Remember the assistant is there to help you – something else you don’t get when buying online!

Your wedding day is really important to you, so don’t get caught out with a counterfeit gown and end up ruining your special day.

If something sounds too good to be true it probably is…

Felixstowe Trades & Labour Club FUNCTION ROOM available for hire for weddings To enquire call: 01394 282108 or email ftalc@outlook.com Website www.ftalc.co.uk

Have your Event or Gig Listed Free!!* Email: info@ipswich24.co.uk Post: Suite 9, 85 Dales Rd, Ipswich IP1 4JR Thu 2nd Feb

Harry Potter Book Night, Felixstowe Library, 6pm – 8pm, Tickets £5, A celebration of all things Harry Potter, presented by the Felixstowe Book Festival and Felixstowe Library, Storytelling and magical activities, Meet characters from the book. You are invited to wear your best robes for the occasion, Suitable for children ages 7+, All children must be accompanied by an adult, Pre-booking essential, 01394 694880, www.felixstowebookfestival.co.uk

Fri 3rd Feb

Monthly Meeting, Martlesham Heath Aviation Society, Main Hall, Martlesham Heath Community Centre, Felixstowe Road, Martlesham Heath, IP12 4PB, “I Learned About Flying From THAT - Mistakes And Mishaps in the Air”, Presented

by Air Commodore Mike Bettell OBE (Rtd), Members £3, non-members welcomed at £4, Pay at the door on arrival, www.mhas.org.uk

Sat 4th Feb

Ipswich RSPB Local Group Field Meeting, A walk along the River Deben from Woodbridge to Kyson Point for waders and wildfowl, Meet at 9.45am at Woodbridge Railway Station, Map ref TM274487, Approx 2-3 hours. 2-3 miles, Contact 01473 258791, All welcome.

Wed 8th Feb

Tea Dance, Christ Church, Tacket Street, Ipswich, 2pm, £2 inc Refreshments, All proceeds to Ipswich Deaf Social Club, All welcome, Suffolk Industrial Archaeology Society Meeting, Ipswich Transport Museum, Cobham Road, Ipswich, The History of Bressingham Gardens and Steam Museum by Dave Steward, 7.30pm, Further information 01473 405116

Thu 9th Feb

Ipswich RSPB Group Indoor Meeting, ‘Sri Lanka’, an illustrated talk by Wildlife Photographer Bill Baston, Rushmere St Andrew Church Hall, The Street, Rushmere, Ipswich, IP5 1DH, 7.30pm, Admission: Local Group members £2.20 (concessions apply), Non-Members £4, Juniors £1, All welcome.

Sat 11th Feb – Sun 19th Feb

February Half-Term Trail, Landguard Fort, Felixstowe, 10am – 4pm, Join in the half-term fun, with the quiz trail around Landguard Fort. Normal admission charges for the Fort apply, plus £1.50 for a trail sheet (including a Landguard Fort pencil), 01394 675900, www.landguard.com

Sat 11th Feb

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 stallholders welcome, Contact Jane Gould 01473 780777

Old Felixstowe Community Market, Old Felixstowe Community Centre, 10am – 12pm, bargains and refreshments, Organised by the Old Felixstowe Community Association, Admission free, 01394 283205, www.oldfelixstoweca.org.uk

Mon 13th Feb

EVENTS

guide

Tue 21st Feb

East Suffolk National Trust Association, Ropes Hall Kesgrave, IP5 1JF, 7.15pm, Talk by Ben Cowell on the challenges facing historic houses, Free parking, entry fee for non ESNTA members £3

Tin River, Sorrel Horse, Shottisham, 8.30pm, Tin River are a very popular trio from Bungay/Beccles. Their repertoire combines instrumentals with accompanied and unaccompanied harmony singing. Their music comes from the traditions of England, Ireland, and Scotland, with occasional forays into French Canada, France and America. They play a great selection of songs and tunes on melodeon, whistle and guitar.

Wed 22nd Feb

Tue 14th Feb

Ipswich Branch Suffolk Family History Society Monthly Meeting, The Co-Op Education Centre, Pedestrian Entrance, 11 Fore Street, Ipswich, IP4 1JW, Car Park entrance in Waterworks Street IP4 1JG, 7.30pm, Breda Stringer Presents: “Victoria and her Children - The Ultimate Family History Tree”, Admission £2 per person for Society members, £2.50 per person for non – members, Call Howard on 01473 274300, www.suffolkfhs.org.uk

Ipswich RSPB Local Group Midweek Walk round Chantry Park Ipswich, Meet at 10am at car park near toilet block (Hadleigh Road entrance), Approx 2 hrs. Map ref TM138443, Contact 01473 714839, All welcome, Forest Fun, Family Event, Foxburrow Farm, Suffolk Wildlife Trust, Melton near Woodbridge IP12 1NA, 10.30am - 12.30pm, Den building, toasting marshmallow & charcoal making, Adult £2, Child £4, www.suffolkwildlifetrust.org/, Telephone 01473 890089

Wed 15th Feb – Sat 18th Feb

Sleeping Beauty presented by Trimley Saints Players Memorial Hall, High Road, Trimley St. Martin, Come and enjoy this year’s pantomine from the Trimley Saints Players, Music, comedy and entertainment - fun for all the family, Tickets £8.00 (evenings), £7.00 (matinee), Pre-booking essential, 01394 671119, www.trimleysaintsplayers.co.uk

Thu 16th Feb

Colneis Flower Club: ‘Pick a Colour’, Colneis Flower Club meeting and demonstration, Old Felixstowe Community Centre, 7.30pm, This time: Susan Horne from Chelmsford ‘Pick a Colour’, Practice Piece - Any Old Iron. Visitors are very welcome, £4, 01394 282468.

Fri 17th Feb

A Dragon’s Tale: Activity Day for 6-10 year olds, Foxburrow Farm, Suffolk Wildlife Trust, Melton near Woodbridge IP12 1NA, 10am - 2pm, Go on a woodland adventure to track down our dragon, conquer the art of making fire and find out about a dragon’s reptilian relatives, Cost £7, telephone 01473 890089 book online at www.suffolkwildlifetrust.org

Sat 18th Feb,

Monthly Beach Litter Pick - Landguard Nature Reserve, Help keep the beach at Landguard clean and pristine. All welcome.

Just turn up. Meet at the southern end of the Bird Observatory compound between the rifle fencing and the Landguard Bungalow (beside the white radar tower) at 9.30am. Once finished there is tea/coffee and biscuits back at the Bird Observatory based within Right Battery, Admission free, 01394 673782, www.lbo.org.uk

IDHTS Meeting, Salvation Army Citidal, 558 Woodbridge Road Ipswich, 7pm, The Sad Story of Airship 101, Visitors welcome, admission via rear door £3.50 including refreshments, Details 01473 414746/01473 422145

Thu 23rd Feb

Sat 25th Feb – Sun 26th Feb

A Winter’s Exhibition, Great Glemham, Village Hall, Low Road IP17 2DH, 10am - 5pm, Free entry, An Exhibition of local artists work featuring, painting, drawing, ceramics, mixed media, jewellery, woodwork, textiles wire sculpture

Feb 25th Feb

The Faulty Tower Dinner Show, Stonham Barns, 6.30pm for 7.30pm sit down meal, Eat in a restaurant run by Basil, Sybil & Manual, where the characters serve their guests a hilarious 3 course dinner, for more information telephone 01449 711111, www.stonhambarns.co.uk

Mon 27th Feb

Fairtrade Walk, Meet at St. Mary’s Church, Walton, 10.30am, A walk to The Grove, followed by a cup of Fairtrade coffee and cake. 2.5 miles. The group is part of the Felixstowe Society, Admission free - although regular walkers will be expected to become members of the Felixstowe Society.

Annual membership is £7.00, or £10.00 for two adults at the same address, Further information 01394 275663, www.felixstowesociety.org

Tue 28th Feb

Felixstowe Society Speaker Events: ‘Sister Marian’, The Salvation Army, Cobbold Road, Felixstowe, 7.30pm, Join the Felixstowe Society for their fascinating Speaker Event. This time: Sister Marian - Port Chaplain at Felixstowe, Everyone welcome, Members £1, visitors £2, 01394 282526, www.felixstowesociety.org

MARCH DEADLINE

Friday 10th FEBRUARY Email: info@ipswich24.co.uk

Charity Firewalk

Thursday 9th March 2017

For more information or to register call: NEIL on 01394 210377 or email: suffolkfirewalk@sky.com

ARE YOU BRAVE ENOUGH???

15

*Submissions listed subject to space availability.

Organised by Lions Club of Ipswich in aid of local good causes

Rick Astley has announced dates for 2017 as part of Forest Live, the summer concert series promoted by the Forestry Commission where acts perform in spectacular woodland locations around the country.

Soulful-voiced pop icon and multi-million selling artist, Rick Astley has had a lot to celebrate. With his first No 1 album in twenty-nine years, titled ‘50’ the Brit Award winning singer has pulled off one of pop’s most remarkable comebacks. ‘50’ has gone gold and has been

well received by fans and critics alike, with singles ‘Keep Singing’ and ‘Angels On My Side’ dominating the airwaves and raking in nearly 1.8m views on VEVO and over 600,000 streams on Spotify.

Rick Astley, plus guests will be performing at Thetford Forest, near Brandon, Suffolk on Saturday 1st July.

• Tickets £46.50 (plus £4.15 booking fee) are on sale now from the Forestry Commission Box Office on 03000 680400, or you can buy online at www.forestry.gov.uk/music

David Walliams’ The First Hippo visits region The Les Petits Theatre Company have announced the full cast and ten further tour dates for the world premiere of the stage adaptation of David Walliams’ The First Hippo on the Moon. The cast includes Dominic Allen, Alice Bounce, Caroline Bowman, Owen Jenkins and Rosie Nicholls.

Based on David Walliams’ original children’s book with illustrations by Tony Ross, The First Hippo on the Moon is an explosively funny space adventure which sees the enormously rich Hercules Waldorf-Franklin III and ingenious Shelia compete to be the first hippo to make it to the moon.

David Walliams has taken the literary world by storm and his brilliantly funny stories are adored by children the world over. He has achieved unprecedented critical acclaim and quickly developed a reputation as a natural successor to Roald Dahl. His books have been translated into over 45 languages and sold over 9.5 million copies in the UK alone. One of his most successful titles Gangsta Granny was adapted for the stage in November 2015 by Birmingham Stage Company and continues on tour until January 2017.

The First Hippo on the Moon has been adapted for the stage by Les Enfants Terribles and Les Petits’ Artistic Director Oliver Lansley whose recent adaptations have included the immersive dining experience Dinner at the Twits and Alice’s Adventure’s Underground. The puppets for The First Hippo on the Moon have been created by Nick Barnes and Finn Caldwell who have previously collaborated on War Horse and The Lorax. The First Hippo on the Moon is suitable for children aged three and up.

The First Hippo on the Moon will be at the Mercury Theatre, Colchester on Tuesday 14th and Wednesday 15th February at the Mercury Theatre in Colchester. To book tickets you can contact the Box Office on 01206 573948 or www.mercurytheatre.co.uk

A selection of leading Ocean and River Cruise lines including -

Inspiration, advice and special offers for regular and those new to cruising

Tuesday 7th March 2017. Milsoms, Kesgrave Hall. 4pm-7pm To receive your FREE invitation please pop in to Deben Travel, call on 01394 615620 or download your tickets from https://suffolkcruiseshow.eventbrite.co.uk 16

The Power of Love In February we think Valentines, we think love and I am sure there will be plenty of reference to both within this month’s magazine!

But it makes me think, do you love what you do?

On my business card, it says I am a Businesswoman, Networker, Volunteer and Dog Lover. And yes, I love all of those things.

Businesswoman - My business Maid2Clean (Suffolk) Ltd is seven years old on 1st February 2017.

Every year is a milestone of sorts in a business these days and I am very proud we are still finding work for local people doing other people’s housework, and working the hours they want to rather than what they are told to. It is empowering to be in charge of your own schedule and so many people juggle lots of different balls these days, it is important for everyone, cleaners and clients alike, to be flexible. With minimum wage increasing again in April,

we recently underwent a review to ensure our cleaners are all paid well in excess of what this will be. Our clients are happy to pay for a job well done. I love my business.

Networker - I also make a point of being on the networking circuit as often as I am able. I am a member of a couple of groups and frequently recommend and refer other Suffolk businesses.

I run a networking group for women who run their own businesses (South Suffolk branch of WiRE Women in Rural Enterprise).

It is lovely to welcome new members and visitors at the start of their new business journey and be able to help them on their way.

Some of these women have come out of the corporate world but some are making the leap from being a housewife – it is a different journey for everyone. I love networking, it’s all about relationships.

Volunteer - I volunteer for several organisations – WiRE of course,

Anglia Care Trust, Suffolk Coastal Business, Suffolk New College and I am also Chair of Suffolk Crimestoppers. I am a big believer in giving back to the community if you are able to. I love to volunteer.

Dog Lover - People know I waited all my life to have a dog of my own and now I have three! They are a family of Soft Coated Irish Wheaten Terriers, Dad, Mum and daughter, six, seven and four respectively.

And they are so special to me. Each of them has a completely different personality, traits and distinctive bark, much like children (for bark, read laugh!). They trash my house regularly bringing muddy footprints and bits of garden in with them on a regular basis. But I can’t imagine my life without them and I love them to bits.

So, this February, think about what you love doing – do you love cleaning? If not, get someone else to do it! If you do, perhaps you have

a few hours each week and would like to get paid to do someone else’s housework. Happy Valentines!

Maid2Clean – here to help with your housework and to provide regular part-time work for local people 0800 878 6388 Sue Hall, Maid2Clean

Flower Club Meeting It seems a while now since The Deben Flower Club held their wonderful Christmas demonstration, quiz night, meal and workshop.

All who attended these events had a wonderful time and enjoyed themselves very much.

The Deben Flower Club now look forward to another successful and entertaining year.

The Club’s Next meeting takes place on Tuesday 14th February

at 7.30pm in Kirton Church Hall, Kirton, IP10 0PU. This February meeting will take the form of a members evening.

The Club’s talented members will arrange flowers for your entertainment. There will be an opportunity to ask questions

and learn new techniques in an informal atmosphere. At the end of the evening the arrangements will be raffled and lucky members will take home a beautifully arranged design.

Tea, coffee and biscuits will be served. Visitors are always assured of a warm welcome, entrance is just £4.00.

Would you like a Maid to Clean your home?

17

The benefits of your own wormery Worms make brilliant pets, they cost nothing to feed, never need walking and don’t need house sitters when you go away on holiday, and, they are very useful too!

Most gardeners are aware of the common earthworm in the garden, but did you know that there is another species of worms that is becoming increasingly popular? …The composting worm!

These marvelous worms can be placed into a special box outside your kitchen door where they will happily munch away on your kitchen waste, changing limp lettuce and mouldy melon into to a fabulous, rich compost called vermicompost the crème de la crème of potting compost.

The box commonly know as a wormery can come in all shapes and styles and can be made from many different products, however the easiest way is by using a series of stacking trays.

Basically you have a number of trays with a mesh base.

Starting off with the lowest tray – you put your worms in there and then start adding your kitchen waste, when that tray is full you add the next tray on top, add more waste, until that is also full – then add another tray.

As the composting worms live near the surface naturally they will eat the food in the bottom tray then move upwards through the mesh base into the new tray in search of more food, eat that, then move upwards again.

Eventually after a number of months you will end up with rich vermicompost in the bottom tray, partially composted food in the middle tray, and fresh waste in the top tray.

Orchid Spring Show

The Suffolk Orchid Society will be holding its Spring Show on Saturday 25th March 2017 at St Michael’s Church Centre, (near Douglas Bader Public House), Martlesham Heath, IP5 3UY, between 10am and 4pm.

In addition to a magnificent display of the member’s orchids, there will be first class orchids for sale, re-potting demonstrations and advice on the cultivation of orchids including solving problems that may be encountered in their care. Refreshments including light lunches will be available during the day. Admission is £1.00

Successfully moving people for over 38 years

and Storage

• STORAGE Our wooden containerised storage warehouse at Bentwaters Park is the perfect way to store, whether it be short term or long term.

All items are te packed away by us with a full inventory of effects and condition.

• COMMERCIAL STORAGE

Our commercial storage can be in wooden containers or we also offer palletised storage for commercial goods, where we charge per pallet per week, it really is that simple. We have a large mobile container ramp allowing us to load and unload shipping containers at our warehouse, either by hand or by forklift. If you require a large area, we can charge per square feet.

• REMOVALS

With a selection of different sized vehicles, no removal is too large or small for our team of experienced removal experts.

• SHIPPING

We may be a local family run removal firm, but we cover the world.

Let us arrange your move, whether it be to Europe, the USA or Australia.

www.pooleyremovals.com Email: info@pooleyremovals.com

Tel: 01394 460498

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Your worms will have left the bottom tray, so you can then tip the vermicompost out onto your vegetable patch and put the empty tray back on the top.

Composting worms are nature’s recyclers. They can eat upwards of half their body weight per day and will eat virtually anything organic.

Vegetables, fruit, teabags, coffee grounds, bread, pasta, paper and cardboard even food scraps off your plate can all be put in a wormery and fed to those hungry worms.

Kids love them too and what better way to teach them about recycling and composting than with a wormery! — www.wormcity.co.uk

Get Baking and Raise Funds for Our Heroes

Help for Heroes (H4H) is once again asking the great British public to dust off their aprons and get baking to raise lots of dough for our wounded, injured and sick personnel, veterans and their families.

Every slice sold really does make a difference to help rebuild lives and it is so easy to get involved.

You could hold a tea and cake event at work, school, in your local community centre or simply invite friends around to your home for a slice of cake for a donation and a catch up.

Register and fundraise for the chance to win a Kenwood kMix (kindly donated by Debenhams). A free fundraising pack will be sent to every Bake for Heroes organiser to help make each event a success. The packs include collecting boxes, a sweepstake game, bunting, balloons and pricing stickers.

The winner of the ‘Best Cake Competition’ in 2017, could win a stay in London, together with breakfast and afternoon tea, which has kindly been donated by our lovely friends at the Bloomsbury Hotel in London. You must be over 18 to enter and show that you’ve raised money at your Bake for Heroes event.

The ‘Bake for Heroes’ campaign runs from 15th April until 30th April 2017, however if this isn’t convenient please feel free to choose a date that is.

To register or for more information visit www.bakeforheroes.org.uk or call 01980 846459.

Lynn organised a bake sale in her local town and said, “Help for Heroes is really close to my heart and I wanted to do something, so I invited my friends and family to my home for tea and cake. It was really easy to organise and a great opportunity to catch up, have some fun and raise some money for a fantastic charity.”

East Anglia Potato Day The East Anglia Potato Day will take place on Saturday, 11th February at the Mid Suffolk Showground, Stonham.

With over 80 varieties of seed potato available to buy, plus various stalls including King Seeds, Rougham Nurseries, tools, produce and compost this event is a must for gardeners.

There will also be advice from Master Composters and members of the Suffolk Smallholders Association and National Allotment Association will be in attendance.

Every gardener has a glut of seeds, so why not visit the seed swap stall with you own seeds to swap with other growers.

A Potato Day wouldn’t be complete without a tasting table, including chip tasting! There will also be plenty of refreshments available and lots more…

The East Anglia Potato Day has

been running for 22 years and is a joint venture organised by members of three organic gardening groups, Norfolk Organic Group, Suffolk Organic Gardeners and Ipswich Organic Gardeners Group, and they’ve been at Stonham since 2005 Essentially this is a gardening event with all their customers and volunteers being gardeners who grow spuds, be it on an allotment, smallholding, garden or in pots on the patio.

Potato days offer gardeners the opportunity to try different varieties without having to buy three kilos of the same variety or spend a fortune and helps to ensure the heritage varieties remain available.

If someone had six pots on their patio, they could buy one tuber each of six different varieties at a cost of £1.02 They are not a commercial organisation but do have to cover

Selling unwanted items

Christmas now seems like a distance past and all that is left of the festivities are those credit card bills, so how would you like to earn some cash for yourself to help with some of those bills, whilst also supporting charities in the local area?

The Lion’s Club of Ipswich hold a weekly Car Boot Sale at Portman Road in Ipswich every Sunday from 8am until 12.30pm. Pitches are just £5 each for cars (£10 for vans or a car with a trailer) and all profits from the Boot Sale go to local good causes and charities.

Selling you stuff at a Car Boot Sale is a great way to earn yourself a little extra pocket money, and at the Portman Road site there is an onsite catering van, plus toilets and, the sale is on hard standing which means you don’t have to stand in a muddy field to sell your wares!

The Lions Club of Ipswich have been running a Boot Sale at the Portman Road site for over 20 years, members of the club volunteer their time to help staff the event, so that the club can give as much money as possible to the many charities and good causes that they support. There is no need to book your pitch, just turn up on a Sunday morning.

Don’t have anything to sell? Grab yourself a bargain and browse the many seller’s stalls. The town centre location makes it really easy for visitors to get to, and there is just a 50p charge to park, again this money goes to charity.

It’s a win win situation, earn some cash for yourself and do your bit for charity at the same time!

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costs with the admission charge hopefully covering the venue hire and potato sales covering potato cost.

They do a weekly gardening programme and the programme dedicated to potatoes went out in Belgium in September 2013 and

In 2013 the Event had a surprise visit from a Belgian TV gardening presenter called Wim Lybaert (Belgium’s equivalent of Monty Don) complete with TV crew and they spent quite some time filming. They told organisers they were doing a feature on ‘Eccentric English Gardening Events” and had been in Yorkshire the previous day filming the Yorkshire rhubarb triangle

resulted in several visitors from Antwerp in 2014.

The East Anglia Potato Day will take place on Saturday, 11th February at Mid-Suffolk Showground, Stonham Barns, Pettaugh Road, Stonham Aspal, Stowmarket, IP14 6AT, (on A1120 - 2 miles from A140) from 9.30 am until 1.30pm. Admission is just £1.50. For more information visit www.eapd.btck.com

Freemix Concrete is a ready mixed concrete supplier.

Our fast flexible service means we can supply a complete range of mixes in any size of project, large or small.

NO minimum or part load charges, plus a level of flexibility that traditional concrete suppliers can’t offer.

Hales Farm, High Cross Lane, Little Canfield, Dunmow, Essex CM6 1TQ Telephone: 0845 894 3236 • Mobile: 07811 721586 Email: sales@freemixconcrete.co.uk

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

Tel:

01473 715566 19

wellbeing

Need to lose weight and get into shape for a special occasion?

We all want to look our best particularly when we have a wedding or a special occasion to look forward to, but trying to lose weight and get into shape is often hard on your own.

At Kay Fletcher Fitness we are here for everyone who needs it and whether you are looking to lose a few pounds or several stone we can help. Sometimes all you need is a bit of help and guidance and support from other like-minded people to get you on your way.

So if you really want to get in the best possible shape for your next big event why not give Kay’s classes a go. Kay and her niece Kelly run 12 classes a week where they offer nutritional advice with a choice of healthy eating plans, a confidential weekly weigh in and 45 minutes of exercise. In addition they also run regular short courses in Fitness Pilates, Hiit (High Intensity interval Training), Kettlebell and Bootcamps where you can just come along and take part in the exercise.

Over the last 9 & 1/2 years Kay, of Kay Fletcher Fitness has literally helped hundred’s of local people lose weight and get fitter through her weekly classes. Many members still continue to enjoy her classes

So don’t delay, that big event will be here before you know it so take action now and sign up to either a regular class or a short course at Kay Fletcher Fitness - you won’t regret it!

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) 7:15 – 8:30 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

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even though they are now at a healthy weight because they enjoy the exercise element of Kay’s classes.

Courses Fitness Pilates: Mondays at Foxhall Community Hall, (ex St. Clements Social Club) 11.15 am - 12 noon 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 - 7.15pm (registration at 6.30)

For details of up and coming Courses see the website

Love is in the Air Snuggle up to your loved one on Valentine’s Day - that’s the advice from The Sleep Council.

“One in six couples regularly, if not always, sleep in separate beds, but cosying up with your other half seems to aid good quality sleep,” said Lisa Artis of The Sleep Council.

Most recent results from the Sleep Council reveals 82% of those who sleep very well always share their bed, while 17% of those who sleep very poorly are sleeping alone.

Growing evidence also suggests that couples who sleep together not only stay together but stay healthier too.

Continued Lisa, “Sharing a bed is the ultimate intimacy, and research suggests that this closeness helps to lower stress hormones and encourage feelings of safety and security.

“So with romance in the air as Valentine’s Day fast approaches, make sure there is still ‘love’ in the bedroom by cuddling up to your loved one in a comfortable and roomy bed - the perfect start to a great night’s sleep!”

The Sleep Council shares some much needed tips on sharing a bed with your loved one: • Try to go to bed with your partner at the same time at least three nights a week. Different body clocks mean many couples tuck up at different times alarm bells should sound when that starts to happen every night of the week.

• Where duvet hogging is an issue, separate single duvets can work wonders! Separate duvets are also handy for bed sharers who have different temperature requirements. As a comfortable temperature (between 18 and 24 degrees centigrade) is essential to a good night’s sleep, individual duvets with a tog rating suited to each partner will put an end to the ‘too warm, too cold’ debate.

• When snoring becomes a significant and ongoing problem, seek help.

What starts off as a niggle can become a major issue for many couples - so get it sorted!

• Ensure the shared bed is comfortable for both partners and not just suited to one, so shop together for a new bed. Modern technology means even couples with different comfort and support preferences can find a bed that suits them both thanks to zip-and-link or zoned mattresses.

• Rolling towards each other when in bed is a sure sign the shared bed has had its day and needs replacing. It may be a charming characteristic in the early, heady days of a relationship but, like snoring, it’s one that all too soon wears extremely thin. A new bed could help end the bickering.

• Remember that caffeine, alcohol, smoking and exercising or eating too close to bedtime can all make it more difficult to get a great night’s sleep.

• For more information and advice from The Sleep Council, visit www.sleepcouncil.org.uk

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wellbeing

The Winter Blues with Martin Wilks, C.Psychol.

By the time you read this the media created event known as “Blue Monday” will have passed. My Ipswich-based eight-week mindfulness course will have started on that same day; I am hopeful that in most cases anyone on my course who might be vulnerable to the winter blues will discover new ways of handling it this year.

But for any readers out there, (those not on my course) who have noticed a seasonal tendency to become low in spirits at this time of year, let me share a few suggestions?

First of all, notice it. NOTICING it, rather than BEING it ... Well that’s a different matter. We call that “accessing the observer self” - and there are a number of names that we could give to this elusive concept.

Having noticed it, perhaps the very first action to take could be described as “attitudinal” - for many people who suffer with repeated episodes of depression one of the first “accelerators” of the downward spiral of negative thinking is the thought “what’s wrong with me?” Rather than jumping immediately into an inner attitude of self-criticism, can we turn towards ourselves with kindness, and bring inner friendliness even towards this seasonal phenomenon “my old friend the blues”?

Yes, I know that may seem odd - but just how has self-criticism helped in the past?

With the attitude of self-kindness comes the potential for self-care. The recently described ‘seasonal adjustment disorder, (SAD)’ has helped with this. It seems it’s now recognised that some people are particularly vulnerable to the times of shorter daylight. And the opposite is true - we all know how long, summer sun filled days lift our spirits, particularly whilst on holiday. But how far away that seems in early February! With self-kindness, though, we can remember to make self-care a priority.

Just a couple of days back for example - perusing my long list of “oughts, shoulds and have to’s” - I was on the edge of feeling overwhelmed when I noticed the beams of light from the low winter sun in the sky and a promising patch of blue sky between grey clouds. A ten minute sit facing the sun, just soaking it up and doing very little else other than appreciate, and then I was ready to re-engage with my list with considerably more confidence.

And there’s solid science behind this; low vitamin D results in a variety of complex effects on the body and mind. Sunshine helps metabolise elements of our food intake to supplement Vit D levels. Winter is when our Vit.D levels can drop. You might consider checking with your GP about your Vit D levels and take a supplement if that is indicated?

Regarding light levels - the good news of course is that it gets lighter every day now until midsummer. As ever, it’s always changing. There are other things that an attitude of self-kindness can point us towards. No space here to speak more about them - over to you, notice, and do the kind thing for the person who’s being visited by “my old friend the blues”.

Next Eight week mindfulness courses (in both Ipswich and Woodbridge will start after Easter). Do give me a ring if you want to talk about this, or any of the other services that I offer.

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martin@martinwilks.com | www.martinwilks.com 21

wellbeing

Your medical history is important You will no doubt have noticed that you are asked at every dental appointment to fill in a medical history form. Cue groans!

The forms vary from dental practice to dental practice but what they have in common

is that they often cause irritation to patients.

The principal dentist at Harbour Dental Care, Malcolm Harbour, reassures readers they are important, so please take your time and consider your responses when filling them in.

To allow dentists to treat you safely we request that you tell us about your medical history, any medication you may be taking and whether anything has changed medically since the last time you visited.

And by anything, we mean anything. This includes any medical issue that has affected your whole body – not just your mouth or from your neck upwards. Just this week, a patient forgot to mention that he’d had a pacemaker fitted. He didn’t think it was important because it had nothing to do with his mouth. But pacemakers can be affected by the ultrasonic machines used by dental hygienists.

Fortunately he wasn’t seeing the hygienist

that day and we picked up on his lapse of communication, so everything was fine.

When we say medication this includes the contraceptive pill, inhalers, antibiotics, bisphosphonates, over-the-counter medication and recreational drugs. Certain medications can affect your dental health and the treatments available to you, as well as affecting the way other medications work.

Some medical conditions and the medication prescribed for them can affect your mouth even if the illness has nothing to do with it. Cancer medication can cause a dry mouth because it affects the amount of saliva produced. Saliva plays an important role in preventing dental decay, so please let us know if you feel your medication is causing a dry mouth, so that we can keep an even closer eye on your dental health.

months as this is now a legal requirement.

Your medical history form is not just filed away; it is scanned, recorded and referred to if there is a problem. If you have any concerns or doubts, please just ask and we will be happy to explain.

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

Harbour Dental Care patients will be asked to complete a new medical history form every six

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The Budgie Room experts in fat removal, skin tightening and cellulite reduction The Budgie Room 3D Lipo Clinic is a family run business that offers revolutionary non-invasive and non-surgical treatment packages. These packages are bespoke and tailored to meet your needs and desires, targeting your face and body.

With the most innovative technology, 3D Lipo Med gives amazing results for individuals wanting to change their bodies and lives. Used by many celebrities it has become one of the UK’s most effective treatments for instant fat reduction and

received nine out of 10 for the most effective cellulite treatment. These treatments are not a replacement for a healthy diet or exercise, but they will help you achieve the body you want.

At The Budgie Room they pride themselves on being able to offer affordable and effective treatments for cellulite reduction, instant fat reduction, and skin tightening for your body and Face and Fat freezing. Get the treatments the stars are getting at a fraction of the price and without the medical complications.

The Budgie Room are also proud to be one of the limited suppliers of the award winning super drink Skinade, this powerful little drink contains all natural products and delivers amazing results for troubled skin conditions and turns back time with regards to those fine lines and wrinkles.

Call or email for a free no obligation consultation and get the latest opening offers great discounts, as well as payment options.

Since opening The Budgie Room have achieved some fantastic results and happy returning customers enjoying their new body. Let them see what they can do for you.

The Budgie Room can be found at 3D Lipo Clinic, 12 Rendlesham Mews, Rendlesham Business Park, Rendlesham, near Woodbridge.

For more information about the treatments on offer telephone 07498 345617 or visit www. thebudgieroom.co.uk. You can also follow The Budgie Room on Facebook and Instragram.

The scale of mental health issues caused by debt New figures have been released by Creditfix, the UK’s largest personal insolvency practice that show that personal debt is having a negative impact on the mental health of individuals affected by financial problems.

In a UK-wide survey of people currently in an Individual Voluntary Arrangement or Protected Trust Deed (IVA/PTD) with Creditfix, 74 per cent of respondents said their personal debt situation had directly led to poor mental health, such as increased anxiety, depression and insomnia.

Of this, 83 per cent experience poor mental health, 32 per cent said they experienced increased levels of anxiety or stress; whilst 22 per cent said they had suffered from insomnia and other sleep related problems. Depression was also cited amongst those tackling debt, with 15 per cent of the people reporting poor mental health saying they felt depressed as a direct result of their increasing debt.

The results of the survey also show that six per cent of respondents suffered from weight issues, and three per cent had panic attacks as a result of their personal finances.

These results are compounded by the fact that significant proportion of respondents are trying to maintain full or part-time employment, relationships and support their families. As such, the reality of personal debt-related mental health issues is potentially a wider problem in society, with the effects reaching far into communities and the wider economy.

Members of the British Acupuncture Council (BAcC) practise acupuncture based on Chinese medicine principles that have been researched and refined for over 2,000 years.

“The Creditfix survey is important research in this context, and the results are extremely worrying. The far-reaching effects of mental illness as a result of personal debt include a greater burden on the NHS as well as the considerable toll for individuals themselves, their families, communities, colleagues and employers.”

Pearse Flynn, CEO of Creditfix, added, “Mental health issues like anxiety and depression are serious conditions that people are struggling with, and can have knock-on effects that impact on family members, friends and work colleagues.

“The worrying fact is that mental health problems can lead people to spiral into further debt. When in fact those that tackle the situation head on and seek help, support and advice are the ones that are able to be financially rehabilitated and enjoy a debt free future.”

For more information on Creditfix, visit www.creditfix.co.uk.

Dean Anthony

Ipswich Acupuncture Clinic Acupuncture works

Jo Brewis, who is Professor of Organisation and Consumption in the School of Business at the University of Leicester, commented, “Personal finance is now much easier to secure due to the huge range of providers and the advent of new financial services such as payday loans. However, it can also be very complex to understand, which increases the likelihood of defaults.

Indeed, individual insolvency rates have been rising across the UK since mid-2015.

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Passengers are scared by their drivers More than half of passengers have felt unsafe as a result of their drivers’ actions, research from Aviva reveals today.

(26%) than men (16%). And in general, people are more likely to say they’ve been scared when being driven by male drivers than female motorists. Male friends are more likely to worry their passengers than female friends (19% vs 9%), and dad drivers are marginally more likely to make passengers nervous than mums (9% vs 8%).

A study of more than 2,000 adults found that 53% of passengers had felt unsafe while being driven, with younger passengers feeling most on edge. The proportion of panicky passengers rises to six out of 10 for those aged 16-34.

The research was carried out as part of the insurer’s ongoing mission to help make Britain’s roads safer.

Aviva today unveils a new TV advert featuring former Formula One driver and road safety ambassador David Coulthard as a rogue taxi driver, shocking passengers with his poor driving habits.

The Aviva campaign encourages motorists to download the Aviva Drive app which monitors people’s driving behaviours and could save safer drivers an average of £170 off their Aviva car insurance.

Who’s the scariest driver?

The most likely culprits to make passengers nervous are spouses or partners, with 21% of anxious travellers pointing the finger at their other halves. Women are considerably more likely to complain about their partner

Why so nervous?

‘Driving too fast’ was by far the most common reason passengers gave for feeling unsafe in a motor vehicle (61%), twice as likely as the second and third causes for concern – that the driver was driving aggressively (31%) or the motorist didn’t seem to be concentrating (30%). However, it would appear that people didn’t always feel able to confront their driver when they felt unsafe. Of the passengers who felt uneasy on the move, more than a quarter (26%) didn’t tell their driver.

This was because more than a third (35%) didn’t want to upset their driver, 29% thought the motorist might think they were over-reacting, and 22% were relying on the driver to get them to their destination.

Mixed messages from motorists When people did challenge their driver, responses from the motorist were mixed. The most common reaction from drivers was to say that there was nothing wrong with their driving (36%) and 28% told the passenger that they should stop over-reacting. One in four passengers (25%) were told to stop being back-seat drivers, while 17% said their driver just ignored them.

However, 25% said that their driver did drive more sensibly after they had confronted them and 22% said their ‘chauffeur’ had apologised. Worryingly though, nearly three quarters (72%) said they wouldn’t necessarily challenge their driver in the future if they felt unsafe.

Peter Markey, Brand and Marketing Comms Director for Aviva says, “We’ve been on a mission to help make Britain’s roads safer for some time now and this latest research backs up what we already know - that most of us think we’re good drivers, but others may not necessarily agree!

“If a passenger feels uncomfortable we’d encourage them to have a polite word with their driver, just so they’re aware. They could also suggest that the driver checks their driving style by using the Aviva Drive app, so they can get an independent opinion.”

The Aviva Drive app uses smartphone technology that records the motorist’s driving style, based on accelerating, braking and cornering. Users of the Aviva Drive app will be given an individual score out of 10.

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Used Vehicle Guide— Used car of the month: Audi A5 Coupe (pre-2016)

Head of Valuation Services at My Car Check, Gavin Amos, said, “Audi has just introduced a new A5 Coupe, but the previous (pre-2016) model remains one of the most desirable used cars around. With sleek looks, strong residual values and a range of great engines – from the frugal 2-litre TDI, to the lively 3-litre TDI, and the super high performance S5 and RS5, there’s something for everyone. Don’t be put off by high mileage either, so long as it has full service history (fsh), these can run and run. Of all the A5 models we’ve checked so far this year, 7.66% had been previously written-off and 14.56% were still on finance.”

As to market trends, Amos said, “Retail footfall is slowing as we approach the festive season, although some buyers have cottoned on to the fact that this is the quietest time of year for dealers and therefore a decent time to strike a bargain. Most traders have already shifted their attention to getting new stock in to meet the post-Christmas rush. Presents unwrapped and turkey eaten, consumers’ thoughts will soon return to the need for a new car, prompting the question: Does anyone fancy a stroll around a forecourt or two?”

Used bike of the month: Honda Africa Twin CRF1000

On the motorbike, scooter and moped sector, My Car Check’s Rob Hobson said, “Popular in the 90s and making a much-anticipated comeback last year, the new Honda Africa Twin CRF1000 looks sets to be a real hit in the used market. Lighter than the BMW 1200GS, there was clearly pent-up demand for a big, go-anywhere off-roader. Supply will soon be helped by the first models coming to the end of their PCP deals, with both the trade and consumers competing to snap them up.”

As to market trends, Hobson said, “Dealers are currently preoccupied with the incoming Euro 4 regulations. Lots of bikes will be going out of production and we look forward to some exciting Euro 4-compliant models hitting showrooms in 2017. In the used market, most values remain stable and the right bikes will still make decent money.”

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