Ipswich24 March 2015

MARCH 2015

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Picture: East Anglian Game and Country Fair, see page 4 to win tickets

FREE

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

Deben Travel are your holiday specialists Having just celebrated their third anniversary the team at Deben Travel, which is situated in the Thoroughfare, Woodbridge, are busier than ever.

And, after speaking with them about their continued success, they clearly stand out as offering the best in customer service, by going that extra mile to really ensure the customer is well looked after. Being a truly independent agency means that they have access to over 200 Tour Operators and Airlines ensuring that they can find the perfect holiday to suit you at the best price.

The Travel Industry moves at a fast pace and in the last year there have been many changes with trends in destinations off the beaten track such as Burma or Vietnam for the more adventurous traveller. Also, one of the fastest growing sectors is Cruising, with many new ships planned and the launch of the new P&O Cruise ship Britannia, there are many options available. River Cruising is a popular choice for visiting a country in style

with many fascinating cities along the Danube, Rhine, Moselle, Douro and other worldwide waterways.

Traditional family holidays are of course still a firm favourite whether it’s a self catering apartment, villa, farm house or the all inclusive packages

which can offer very good value for money especially in the School Holidays.

Whatever your holiday preference may be

Deben Travel specialise in luxury holidays at affordable prices and with the experience of the team they can also tailor make a holiday to suit you.

To help provide you with inspiration for your next trip Deben Travel have planned a number of events throughout the year. Starting with an evening hosted alongside Wendy Wu Tours, the China and South East Asia Travel Specialists, with their expertise and local knowledge they are sure to offer you the best selection of small group, private or independent touring.

If you would like to attend and find out more about these fascinating destinations please call Deben Travel on 01394 615620 to reserve your complimentary ticket, spaces are limited.

Experience Asia with Wendy Wu Tours Explore a land full of the world’s oldest traditions, beautiful landscapes and fascinating culture. Wendy Wu’s China tours offer a truly unique experience for every traveller. Discover iconic sights and hidden treasures: from the majestic Great Wall to the impressive Terracotta Warriors of Xian to the mighty Yangtze River and the breath-taking scenery that surrounds her.

Discover what makes Asia the most captivating continent on the planet with unforgettable, fully inclusive escorted group tours and private experiences to a selection of extraordinary countries including, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, Japan, India, Sri Lanka and much more.

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INSIDE THIS MONTH MARCH Proms:

The High School Prom is now an essential climax to school-life, but making it perfect takes planning.

On Stage:

This month we feature performances that include dance, classic British comedy, spooky horror and a musical on the life of Meatloaf.

11-13 At Home 8&9 LiveMusic24: A round-up of local music news plus our day-by-day gig guide.

Helping you improve your home and garden our popular lifestyle section includes: recipies, flooring advice, textiles, news on a new kitchen showroom plus an exciting competition.

Game & Country Fair:

Each year our region hosts some excellent game and country fairs. Kicking things off for 2015 we have the chance to win tickets to the East Anglian Game & Country Fair.

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19-22 16-18

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Wellbeing:

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www.ipswich24.co.uk

This month we learn about Walking Football, information on keeping fit and Jules Button explains about healthy portions.

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Win Tickets to Game & Country Fair The 2015 East Anglian Game & Country Fair will take place on Saturday the 25th and Sunday the 26th April, at The Norfolk Showground, Norwich.

There will be lots of new displays including The Essex Dog Display Team, which is generally accepted as the premier and longest established dog display team in Great Britain and Europe. The team appeared at Crufts for a record breaking eleven years and they were also invited to display at the Five Nations Rugby Tournament at Twickenham for the Calcutta Cup, England – Scotland match. Working with many different breeds of dogs (the majority of which have been rescued); the team produce a professional highly entertaining, action packed and informative display. There are excellent equestrian displays and workshops at the East Anglian Game & Country Fair.

UK Horseboarding Arena Demos “somewhere between scurry racing and wake boarding” describes Arena Boarding. Teams take on the clock around a course of gates, set to challenge the best boarders and horse riders, from long straights into sweeping bends and ninety degree turns. An absolute must-see spectacle - you will not be able to take your eyes off it, as teams achieving already unbelievable speeds, get faster with each race.

Horse behaviourist, Richard Maxwell, was in the Household cavalry with “Monty Roberts” and he will be demonstrating twice daily in the round horse pen, where you will be able to see the special understanding and training techniques that Richard uses to help horses overcome some of their fears.

There is a fantastic line up of more free events to watch in the Main and Countryside Arenas. Ring displays also include six times FITASC Sporting World Champion, European Champion and English Open Champion John Bidwell performing his world famous off the hip trick shooting with an automatic

and pump action shotgun shooting from the hip over his shoulders and from between his legs, this is a rare opportunity to see John’s display.

West Norfolk Hunt will be taking the hounds for a parade of the ring, Bernese Mountain Dogs, Flight of the Falcons, Ferret Racing, Fly Fishing, Berkley Owls, Sheep Dog and Duck Display, Lurcher Displays, Gun Dog demonstrations and much more.

If Bear Grills is your thing then Woodland Ways Bushcraft & Survival will be demonstrating their vast knowledge of techniques. There will be opportunities throughout the day to get ‘hands on’ and learn some skills for yourself. They will also be running ‘Pigeon Plucking’ competitions on their stand over the weekend. Find out how quickly you can prepare a pigeon for the table without using a knife.

There are over 300 shopping stands with a wide variety of products from fashion and footwear to gun makers, eco products, fishing products and home improvements.

Plus craft halls and gift marquees. The main bar will be serving a great selection of local beers and drinks over the weekend and the Sheringham shanty men will be performing during the day.

Children of all ages will be able to take part in countryside activities and meet several animals. Stands at the event for little ones include Red Barn Farm, Woodbine Alpacas, Scratby Donkey Rides and of course Heart Radio.

Whether you want information about the Game Fair prior to buying tickets or want to know what is happening next in the Main Arena during the weekend or to save your car park location, the Game Fair app is your essential guide to a great day out for all the family, available to download FREE from ‘The App Store’.

PRI Z COM E P

Ticket Information: Advance discounted admission tickets are available now online at www.ukgamefair.co.uk or by calling the ticket hotline number 0871 230 1102 Calls cost 10p per minute from a BT landline plus standard network charges. Adult £13.00, Children (5-16 Yrs) £5.00 and Family (2 Adults & 3 Children) £36, (offer valid until midday 20/04/14 and a small booking fee applies). Under 5’s are Free and Car Parking is Free for all.

Keep up to date with all the latest game fair news and offers at www.ukgamefair.co.uk

— COMPETITION — Ipswich24 has got four family tickets to the East Anglian Game & Country Fair to give away to lucky readers. To be in with a chance of winning this great prize just send your answer to the following question, along with your name, address and a contact telephone number to: East Anglian Game & Country Fair 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 31st March 2015.

Q. Where does the East Anglian Game & Country Fair take place?

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Spring has sprung!

Life at Baylham House Farm is never dull, however during spring things start to get really exciting. February’s lambs are all out in the field, leaping around and driving their mums to distraction.

Spring Steam

Thelma and Polly’s litters of piglets are delighting the visitors and the Farm’s Large Black sows - Nina and Ella - are near to farrowing. Meenie, one of the Middle Whites, will follow them soon after.

Just next door in the lambing tunnel the next batch of ewes are waiting to give birth. The lambs are born during the Easter holidays and there is usually plenty of opportunity to cuddle a lamb and, if you’re lucky, the chance to see one born.

The Long Shop Museum in Leiston will reopen in style by launching the 2015 season on Saturday 28th March with a fantastic steam and activity day from 10am until 5pm.

There will be large and small engines in steam, including our very own ‘Sirapite’ shunting engine and the ‘Works Band’ (alias Leiston Royal British Legion Band) will be playing around the museum site during the day. Costumed ‘interpreters’ will also be on hand to lead a variety of hands-on activities for those of all ages and interests. These include making a nail box, doing some washing the Victorian way, or having a go at creating a plaster copy of an ‘engine part’ in a sand mould.

Tea, coffee and scrumptious home made cakes will be available throughout the day, with lovely home-made soup available at lunchtime. Come as you are, or come in Victorian/ Edwardian dress to join in the spirit of the event.

No need to book – just come along! Normal Museum admission charges apply but please be aware that there will be a small increase in the admission price in 2015 for first time in five years though all ticketholders will now be entitled to admission for a full year.

From Saturday 28th, the Museum will be open 7 days per week throughout the school Easter holidays and there will be an ‘egg hunt’ quiz trail and other family activities available. Please check the Museum website or phone the Museum (01728 832189) for updated details www.longshopmuseum.co.uk.

The Easter Speggtacular (3rd to 6th April) is fun for all the family. In addition to lambing there will be stalls, a treasure hunt, and the bunny barn.

With lots to see and do and, of course, the fabulous Baylham BBQ with local beer and wine, it’s a day out everyone will enjoy. The kids’ play area means they can keep busy, while you can relax with a cup of coffee and a homemade cake.

Please call, or see the website www.baylham-house-farm.co.uk, for more information on all the events.

The farm is open Tuesday to Sunday and bank holidays, 10am to 5pm.

Admission: £7 for adults, £6 for concessions, £3 for children (aged 4-16).

Under 4’s are free. A family ticket (2 adults & 2 children) is also available for £18.

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— ADVERTORIAL —

Offering international students a home away from home “What is a Guardianship Company and what does it do?” is a question that I am frequently asked.

At Alpha Guardians we bring international students into the UK to study in local state and independent schools often to study for GCSE’s and A Levels, before progressing onto degree courses in British Universities. They come to live in the UK with host families and hopefully become part of the family. The host family is able to assist them with their day-to-day needs whilst providing the student with a safe and secure home environment, enabling them to continue their education in the UK.

We became a host family when my children were eight and six years old. We had a spare room, which was collecting dust and thought it could be put to good use without compromising our own children and hence the hosting chapter began in our lives.

We have looked after a number of students in our home, some long term, some short term, and have watched them grow and mature into young adults leaving our care and moving on to universities or different pastures.

As a family we have hopefully played a part in their lives, enabling them to continue to the career path of their choice, providing a home that they will look back on fondly as happy times in Ipswich and we are still in touch with many of them.

Now as the owner of the Alpha Guardians Ltd, I am in the fortunate position of “meeting” and getting to know these students before they come to the UK, placing them in schools and with host families.

So, could you help? We are always looking for excellent host families to assist in this work. My family and I also host and are still in contact with the students that have

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lived in our home and our children still talk about and contact them regularly. One is now training to be a doctor, one is studying geography and one studying chemical engineering and another is studying for his A levels.

So, if you have a spare room and would consider having a student in you home please contact us.

We are looking for many different types of hosts, from single parents to those who are separated or divorced. Families, with or without children at home to retired people as this reflects the types of different students we have. We look to select host families that will offer a safe and welcoming environment for the students to live and learn.

So could you consider hosting an international student on a long term basis? Once a student is placed with you and your family this can also be an additional source of income. Currently our hosts receive from £420 a month per student.

For more information please contact us at Alpha Guardians on 01473 559015 or email us at info@alphaguardians.co.uk Trudy Jacklin, Alpha Guardians

Exclusive Bracelet Entries invited from A bracelet, designed exclusively for St Elizabeth Hospice by Imogen Sheeran, is now on sale in all of the Hospice’s shops.

Mrs Sheeran, a devoted supporter of St Elizabeth Hospice, was invited to design a bespoke piece of jewellery for the charity which provides local Hospice care to over 2,000 local people every year.

The bracelets are lovingly handmade by Imogen Sheeran using purple, blue and green cube beads to fit in with the Hospice’s new shop colours.

Mrs Sheeran, of Framlingham, said, “I have supported St Elizabeth Hospice for a long time and, like most people, I know lots of families who have been touched by and benefitted from the help of the Hospice.

local artists for show

The Lions Club of Ipswich will again be hosting their annual Art Show at the beautiful Tithe Barn in Sproughton, near Ipswich this May and the club is now taking entries from local artists who wish to exhibit their work at the event.

Artists can show up to four pieces of their work, which must be ready to hang. The Lions club take a small commission from any pieces that are sold over the weekend, which will go towards the Lion President’s Charity Appeal.

This year the Club are supporting Canine Partners, who train and supply assistance dogs for people that have disabilities.

So whatever medium you use to create your artwork, you will be welcomed to exhibit your pieces.

The Show opens on Friday 22nd May with a special Cheese and Wine Preview Evening. Tickets are just £6 and will offer a fantastic opportunity for visitors on the night to be the first to view over 300 pieces of work by local artists.

“Having worked with them over the past few months, selling my jewellery in the Hospice shop in Framlingham, I jumped at the chance to design a special, bespoke St Elizabeth Hospice bracelet and hopefully it will raise lots of money for this wonderful local charity.”

Patrick Otter, St Elizabeth Hospice’s Retail Area Manager, said, “Imogen’s jewellery collection is fantastic and has been very popular in our Framlingham shop, so we were delighted when she agreed to design a bracelet exclusively for the Hospice.

“The bracelet costs just £10 and by buying one you could help pay for a Nurse for half an hour to make life a little easier for patients and their families, whether it’s for pain relief, emotional support, or a caring hand.

“It costs millions of pounds a year to run the Hospice, with around 20% of the money we raise coming from the income generated from our shops. By buying the special bracelet, you really will be making a difference, helping us continue to provide our vital services to the local community.”

The bracelet will be on sale in all 25 of St Elizabeth Hospice’s shops for £10 from the beginning of February – just in time for Valentine’s Day. To find your nearest Hospice shop, visit www.stelizabethhospice.org.uk/shops As well as the bespoke bracelet, matching necklaces, earrings and cufflinks are also available on request. A wide range of Imogen’s jewellery, including the Ed Sheeran collection, will be on sale in her local Hospice shop in Market Hill, Framlingham, including some beautiful heart necklaces which would make ideal Valentines gifts.

You can also buy the bracelet and check out Imogen’s full jewellery collection at www.imogensheeran.com

The Art Show will then be open to the public from Saturday 23rd until Monday 25th May, from 10am until 5pm on the Saturday and Sunday and 10am until 4.30pm on the Monday, with entry being just £1.

For more information about the Art Show or to exhibit your work contact Lion Terry Hunt on 01473 747600.

All proceeds from the Art Show will go towards this year’s Lion Presidents Charity Appeal.

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Your school prom is a very exciting event, but if you want to look your best for this very special evening and you want the night to run smoothly then lots of planning, well in advance, will ensure that your prom night will be great and everybody will have a great time.

The first thing to do is to set the date. Make sure that the date of the prom is set well in advance so that you have sufficient time to plan the event properly. You will need to pick a date that the majority of students will be able to attend and avoid any exams etc. Publicise this date early so that students can keep the date free.

Planning a prom is a big task and too much work for just one or two people, so form a prom committee, this will make the task easier and means that important details are less likely to be forgotten, plus input from the students means that they will get the evening they want too.

With so many options open to you it is easy for the costs of your prom to get out of control, so it is important to plan you budget. Decide how much you can afford to spend on the evening and once you have your budget – stick to it!

Next, it’s time to choose your venue. There are many venues that are suitable to host a prom, from the school hall, local hotels and business willing for you to use their reception rooms. You will need to think about how many people will be attending and if you require room for a formal sit down meal before you make a decision. Make sure you visit the venue before you book to ensure it is the right one for

you. It is also important to find out what facilities the venue has to offer.

For example, do they have in-house caterers or a resident disco and do you have to use them or can you choose your own. Once you have chosen the venue be sure to book well in advance – popular venues get booked up very quickly, some as much as 18 months before.

Now, do you want a theme for your prom? Themed events are always popular but you need to make sure that you get the students involved in any ideas so that they can pick a theme that they like.

Don’t underestimate how time-consuming decoration you venue can be. Once you have chosen your colours and theme, round up volunteers to help.

The entertainment is one of the most important things to get right, wrong choices and your prom night could be a washout! Bear in mind the musical tastes of the guests when choosing a DJ or band.

Make sure you get

input from the students and listen to several discos/bands before you make your booking.

Catering is an area where it is very easy to overspend so careful planning is essential if you are to stick to your budget. Decide if you are going to have a formal it-down meal or a less formal buffet with finger food. Be sure to shop around for caterers and make sure you know exactly what is included in the price in advance.

Professional photography is essential if you wish to create lasting memories for your prom. Decide what kind of photographs you require – are you looking for formal posed shots or rather a wandering photographer taking more natural pictures throughout the venue.

Careful planning will ensure that you have a great prom with many memories that will be treasured for a lifetime. Be sure to take your time planning and most of all, have fun!

Getting there BKP Limousines has an extensive range of luxury limousines and the company has supplied many guests over the years with transportation to their school prom. With seating for eight, what better way for a close group of friends to arrive in style for their last bash at school before leaving and embarking on their chosen career path.

At BKP you can choose from a number of different vehicles for your transport to your prom, including a Hummer H3 Stretch and a pink Lincoln Krystal!

Fully Council Registered and Licenced, BKP Limousines is a locally owned and operated company based in Barham, just outside Ipswich. Darren and Frances operate one of the largest and newest fleets of limousines in the area and have something to suit everybody.

For more information about BKP Limousines or to make a booking you can visit their website at www.bkplimousines.co.uk or telephone them on 01473 830891

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What to wear When making plans for prom, it is important to first pick out a beautiful outfit for the special event. While boys wear tuxes, the girls get to wear special occasion dresses. A prom night is when a girl wants to feel special, but with so many styles and colours of dresses to choose from deciding on the best dress for you can be daunting. That’s where Jewellery Box in Felixstowe can help, with a wealth of knowledge and a wide range of dresses and jewellery and tiaras to chose from you are sure to find that perfect gown to make you feel like a princess on your prom night.

The glamour and elegance that you can have on the prom night would not only rely on your dress alone, just like the process that you went through before you got your dress, it can be very daunting to pick from the numerous prom hairstyles that you can see on the magazines and websites online.

Before choosing your hairstyle for your prom you must first know what kind of dress you will be wearing. Another factor that you might want to consider when looking for prom hairstyles is the shape of your face. If you have a heart-shaped face, have your hair curled. It is not advisable for triangular faces to iron their hair straight especially when wearing

dresses baring their shoulders. Meanwhile, those who are blessed with round shaped face may want to choose from hairstyles that would make them a little more mature like soft curled bangs. They should also add more volume to their hair as soon as it passes the ear. This is to give their face a balance and not to emphasize more on the roundness of their face.

And now all that is left is to arrive at your prom in style. Decide how you wish to arrive at your prom and book your mode of transport early to avoid disappointment.

Make sure that the company you choose has a good reputation and have the details of the night and the type of car that you want ready when ringing companies.

Ask about the year and make of the limousines and their amenities. Some include mini bars and ice buckets, DVD’s, TV’s and laser lights.

And Finally all you need to do is have fun and enjoy you night.

Tastebud delights Are you planning a prom night this year, if so then what better centre piece than a beautifully crafted cake.

At The Little Cake Place you will always find a friendly and professional service. From their well-established shop on Dales Road in Ipswich the experienced team are able to offer a large range of special cakes for special occasions, from birthday cakes and wedding cakes to celebration cakes and novelty cupcakes.

At The Little Cake Place they can provide the perfect cake for your prom night. So, if you would like a large cake with your school name and year iced decoratively on top, or delicious cupcakes made especially for your class mates then talk to the team at the Little Cake Place who can create the ideal cakes for you, plus they probably has the biggest selection of cupcake flavours in the area!

Maybe your prom night has a theme. The Little Cake Place team will take time to find out exactly what you would like, then they will take the time to design the cake to fit in perfectly with your requirements.

And, if you’re a keen baker The Little Cake Place is ideal for you too. The shop stocks a wide range of decoration accessories including edible goods, sugarcraft materials, tools and equipment, plus plenty of help and advice if you require it.

So if you’re planning a prom night and require a very special cake, or maybe you just want to treat yourself to some yummy cupcakes The Little Cake Place is the shop to visit. With free customer parking and competitive prices, you will certainly have the right cake to wow your guests on your special day!

The Little Cake Place is open six days a week and can be found at 85 Dales Road, Ipswich. For more information telephone the team on 01473 744717 or visit www.thelittlecakeplace.com 9

Join in with a cycle challenge If your New Year resolutions included getting fit or raising money for charity this year, local disability charity Papworth Trust has the perfect fitness fundraiser for you. It is looking for people to take on a new cycling challenge which covers over 300 miles in four days.

The challenge will take place from the 9th until 12th July 2015 and covers a new route from stunning Welsh countryside to the beautiful Suffolk coast. Cyclists will start at Papworth Trust’s Kerry Farm in Wales going through the Welsh countryside, over the border and into the English countryside, calling at historic cities and towns along the way. It will end at the Trust’s Waveney Centre, at the traditional seaside resort of Lowestoft on the east coast.

By taking part, the sponsored cyclists will be helping to support the wide range of essential services the Trust provides to disabled and older people throughout the eastern region and beyond.

In Suffolk, Papworth Trust provides the following services: information and advice, youth clubs for people with additional needs, work and learning opportunities, care and support, and medical and vocational rehabilitation.

Trust’s Fundraising Manager Jacqueline Cameron says, “We are looking for people who are up for taking on an amazing challenge, meeting likeminded people, and cycling through some of England’s most beautiful countryside.

“If you’re looking for a cycling challenge with a difference then this cycle challenge is for you. All funds raised by the cyclists will help us to be able to provide essential support for disabled and older people. Join us and make a real difference to people’s lives.”

• You can find out more and register for the cycle challenge by calling 01480 357 206 or by emailing fundraising@papworthtrust.org.uk.

Beachcombing for Beginners Beachcombing for Beginners takes place in Felixstowe on Saturday 14th March from 10am until 11.30am.

Hornwrack, sea glass, Mermaid’s Purses... all of these evocative items have been found on the Suffolk Coast. Join a gentle wander for approximately an hour and a half to see what you can find on the beach. Explore and share what you find whilst learning what should and shouldn’t be on our unique shingle beaches. This walk is suitable for all ages - exploring our beaches is strangely addictive however old or young you may be!

Please dress appropriately for the weather and wear shoes suitable for walking on shingle. Admission is free, however pre-booking essential.

Places are limited. To book please email: touchingthetide@suffolk.gov.uk with your name and contact telephone number (preferably a mobile) and the number of people in your group. You will then receive details of the meeting point. www.touchingthetide.org.uk

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A Night Out for the Ladies A Ladies pamper night in support of Breakthrough Breast Cancer, the charity dedicated to stopping Breast Cancer, is being held on Thursday 12th March from 7pm until 10.30pm at Greshams Sports and Social club on Tuddenham Road, Ipswich. With Mother’s day the following Sunday why not treat her, or come along with your friends!

On the night there will be over 45 stalls all under one roof, offering a range of treatments and retail products. Treatments on offer will include Reflexology, Indian head massage, Reiki, body massage, nails, Tarot readings and various beauty treatments. The retail stalls will be selling products such

as handbags, clothing, jewellery, cakes, cards, body products and lots of gifts.

There are 200 tickets available for this event at only £4 each with the money helping to support Breakthrough. For the first 100 Ladies on the night we have goodie bags to give away worth over £5 each and an amazing raffle to have a go at.

There is ample parking at the venue, along with a fantastic restaurant and licenced bar if you want to make a night of it. For more information contact Sarah Beale at sarahbeale83@hotmail.co.uk or 01473 437986 for your tickets to the ultimate girls night out!

Have a flirt with a One Night Stand at DanceEast Following its success in spring 2014, DanceEast is reintroducing its One Night Stand programme. Reflecting the spring season of ideas, birth, rejuvenation and renewal, this lineup of performances this will bring new dance works and ideas by the UK’s best dance companies to the Jerwood DanceHouse, for one night only.

Keen to engage with audience members after the performances and to gain feedback on the work, DanceEast will be offering all One Night Stand ticket holders a half price drink at the bar post-show and the opportunity to chat to Brendan Keaney, Artistic Director and Chief Executive, along with his colleagues.

The One Night Stand programme kicked off with a sell-out performance of Dreaming In Code by 2Faced Dance Company on Friday 6 February.

Choreographed by award-winning Tamsin Fitzgerald and Eddie Kay for Frantic Assembly this explosive and instinctive brand-new double bill performed by one of the UK’s most innovative male dance companies featured a breathtaking collision of kinetically charged dance and theatre; athletic and agile contemporary dance with jaw-dropping breakdance moves.

Other One Night Stand performances include Murmur & Inked by Aakash Odedra Company, Last Man Standing by James Wilton Dance, Promises Of Happiness by Robert Clark, Of Land & Tongue by Theo Clinkard and 4x4 by Gandini Juggling.

For more information contact the Box Office on 01473 295230 or visit www.danceeast.co.uk

Classic British comedy Classic British comedy is set to visit the Mercury Theatre, Colchester.

Following hit tours in 2012 and 2014, Craig Gilbert’s acclaimed adaption of Jerome K Jerome’s classic tale of boating misadventure, Three Men in a Boat, docks at the Mercury Theatre this March.

Produced by The Original Theatre Company and Theatre Royal Bury St Edmunds, the quintessentially British comedy will play at the Mercury from Monday, 23rd until Wednesday 25th March.

In an attempt to escape the stresses

of city life, three friends, J, Harris and George, accompanied by their faithful canine companion Montmorency, decide to take to the river in order to relax and rejuvenate. The holiday, however, quickly unravels and descends into chaos.

Originally intended as a guide to boating on the Thames, Jerome’s ripping yarn of youthful friendship, mischief and folly celebrates the very essence of Britishness. In Craig Gilbert’s production, this classic tale of boating misadventure comes complete with a working pub,

Spooky March at Wolsey

live piano accompaniment, some ale, music hall singing, a dog and a lot of physical comedy.

Alastair Whatley, director of The Original Theatre Company said, “Jerome K Jerome has been accused of writing the funniest book of all time. Now, over 125 years later, it still has the power to make people laugh uncontrollably in public places. Craig Gilbert’s adaption also manages to make people laugh uncontrollably, but in the safety of a theatre.”

Three Men in a Boat will play at the Mercury Theatre from Monday, March 23 until Wednesday, March 25. Tickets start at £10.

• To book tickets visit www.mercurytheatre.co.uk or call 01206 573948

The New Wolsey Theatre is looking forward to a spooky start to March with an adaption of Susan Hill’s The Mist In The Mirror, running from Tuesday 3rd to Saturday 7th March.

Adapted by Ian Kershaw, from author Susan Hill’s novel, The Mist in the Mirror, this is a tense and atmospheric new production with visual theatre innovators imitating the dog creating an unsettling ethereal atmosphere both on stage and off. An unsettling ghost story in the mould of Hill’s chilling West End smash hit The Woman in Black, The Mist in the Mirror is staged as if audiences are eavesdroppers to a fireside ghost story in the manner of the master of the classic English ghost story writer, M.R. James.

Mr James Monmouth has spent most of his life travelling, following in the footsteps of his childhood hero, the explorer Conrad Vane. Returning to the England he left as a five year old orphan, Sir James is determined to discover more, not just about his origins but also about the early life of Vane. Warned against pursuing this quest, Sir James becomes ever more determined to unravel the mysteries of the past. But who is the mysterious pale, thin little boy who haunts his every step?

Imitating the dog has recently toured an adaption of Ernest Hemmingway’s A Farewell to Arms to venues across the UK and Italy, including the New Wolsey. Other productions include Hound of the Baskervilles, 2012 and The Life and Times of Mitchell and Kenyon Writer Ian Kershaw’s television credits include Shameless, Holby City, Casualty, Doctors and Eastenders. As a playwright, his plays Union Street (Coliseum, 2007), Get Ken Barlow (Watford Palace Theatre, 2005) and he won the Royal Exchange Theatre’s Bruntwood Prize for Playwriting with Candyland in 2005.

In addition to the show, join the Wolsey for a Guided Walk on Saturday 7th March at 11am – A Horrible History of Ipswich, provided by the Ipswich Tourist Guides Association. Take a walk on the dark side; hear tales of murder and execution, ghosts and witchcraft, cruelty and disease. Your ticket to the walk includes a buffet lunch at the New Wolsey Theatre.

Tickets are on sale now and can be booked through the Tickets Sales Team by calling 01473 295900 or by booking online at www.wolseytheatre.co.uk 11

Steve Steinman is Meat Loaf The Meat Loaf Story is coming to Ipswich this Spring. Steve Steinman returns with his epic adventure delivering the best of the best from Meat Loafs incredible catalogue of albums.

Over twenty years ago ‘Stars In Their Eyes’ hit our TV screens transforming everyday people into superstars for one night.

Since his appearance eighteen years ago performing as Meat Loaf, Steve Steinman has become a star in his own right.

Known for his performance as Barron Von Rockula in the hit show Vampires Rock, Steve has a fan base most rock stars would be proud of. He has

Feel-good play not to miss!

Entertaining Angels, written by Richard Everett will be performed by the Masque Players at the Community Hall, Twelve Acre Approach, Kesgrave Ipswich IP5 1JF from Wednesday 25th March to Saturday 28th March inclusive.

Penelope Keith played the part of Clergy wife Grace has spent a Grace at the Chichester Festival lifetime on her best behaviour but and both she and the play received after the death of her husband she excellent reviews. is enjoying new found freedom to This is a real feel-good play and one do and say exactly as she pleases – you wouldn’t want to miss! behaviour not usually expected of a clergyman’s wife! But the arrival of Tickets are priced at £9 and concessions are £7. If you wish the new vicar and the return of her to have tickets reserved for you on eccentric missionary sister together the door for a performance please with some disturbing revelations, visit the website and complete the forces Grace to confront the truth of reservation form or email us directly her marriage. at masqueplayers@hotmail.co.uk.

Whilst not a true comedy, there are Alternatively, please contact Julie some sharp-edge comic lines and Waters on 01473 624692. superb characters showing how New Members are always welcomed relationships are not always what

by The Masque Players, both on you would expect. This wonderful stage and behind the scenes. If play is funny, touching and genuinely you are interested in joining the group please visit the website at thought-provoking and raises some www.masqueplayers.com or follow great questions about trust, faith us on Twitter. and relationships.

performed at the London Palladium and has toured the world playing arenas and concert halls.

The Meat Loaf Story delivers the best of the best from Meat Loaf’s back catalogue of hit albums spanning forty years.

With its video projected scenes, incredible stage set, superb band and Steve Steinman’s unique sense of humour and stage presence, the show will have you up on your feet and dancing in the aisles to all the greatest Meat Loaf hits including: Paradise by the Dashboard Light, Took the Words Right out of my Mouth, Anything For Love, Dead Ringer for love and Bat Out Of Hell to name just a few.

The Meat Loaf Story Starring Steve Steinman will be at the Ipswich Regent Theatre on Tuesday 17th March. To book tickets contact the Box Office on 01473 433100.

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Have your Event Listed Free!!

Email: info@ipswich24.co.uk Post: Suite 9, 85 Dales Rd, Ipswich IP1 4JR 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.ipswich-lions.anglianet.co.uk Giant Sunday Market, Mannings Amusements, Felixstowe, from 9am

Every Monday

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 A V A Go Art Group, St Edmunds Hall, Langer Road, Felixstowe 1.30pm till 4.30pm beginners welcome, For details ring 01394 275690 Ballroom and Latin Class, Goals Centre, Suffolk New College, Grimwade Street IP4 1LT, 6.30pm 7.30pm, 01473 251323, 07736 306519 Yoga, Sidegate Lane Community Centre, Ipswich, 10am - 11am, £3.30 per session, New members welcome, For further information contact: 01473 727796.

Pilates, Sidegate Lane Community Centre, Ipswich, 1.45pm - 2.45 pm, £5 per class, New members welcome, for further details contact: 07773 456078.

Suffolk Promenaders Square Dance Club, Rushmere Village Hall, Humber Doucy Lane, Ipswich, 7.30pm – 10pm, Only £2.50, tea and coffee provided, contact 01473 422663 or 01473 415785 for further details Badminton, Sidegate Lane Community Centre, 7.30pm - 10pm, Social Badminton further information contact Alan 01473 437707

Every Tuesday

Café Français at Arlington’s, Relaxed and easy going, Conversation for beginners and intermediate from 10am to 11am & 11am – 12pm. Conversation and debate for advanced level from 8pm to 9pm, £10 per hour, Contact Lucille on 07982 135181 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 Ballroom and Latin class, Sidegate Lane Primary School, Sidegate Lane, Ipswich, 7pm 8pm, 01473 729271 Art Group, Castle Hill Community Centre, Highfield Road, Ipswich, 1.30pm – 3.30pm, all welcome, for details phone 07443 630072 Carpet Bowls, Nacton Village Hall, 7.30pm and

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have a go, First 3 visits free, then £2 per evening if you like us and want to stay. A sociable and fun evening, Just turn up!

Carpet Bowls, Sidegate Lane Community Centre, Ipswich, 7pm - 10pm, £2.50 per session, new members very welcome, Contact Tony Crane 01473 410740 for details Art Group, meeting at J Parker Studios, Ivy Cottage, Wenham Road, Great Wenham Beginners welcome tuition available, for details 01473 313100 www.jparkerstudios.co.uk New Beginners Latin and American Dance Classes, Methodist Church Hall, Seaton Rd, Felixstowe, 7 - 8pm Co-op Ladies Choir meet at The Co-op Education Centre from 2.15pm to 3.30pm, performing a variety of music including chart hits, musicals and classical. 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 ling established & friendly group of singers, No auditions, Call Maggie on 01473 713597, Martlesham Heath Country Market, The Pavilion, The Square, Martlesham Heath, 9am, home-made, home-grown, and home-crafted items for sale. For further information Tel 01473 623849 or www.martleshammarket.co.uk Tea Dance, Ballroom & Sequence Dancing, Sidegate Lane Community Centre, 2pm - 4pm, £2. Includes tea and biscuits, for further information call 01473 257593.

Knit ‘n’ Natter Group, Bags of Handles, Walton, Felixstowe, 6pm – 9pm, Knit, Natter and browse through hundreds of knitting magazines available to the group.

Every Wednesday

Ballroom and Latin Classes, Sidegate Lane Community Centre, Ipswich, 7pm – 8pm, £3, new members welcome, for more information call 01473 729271 Tea Dance, Ipswich School of Dancing, Bond Street, Ipswich, 2 - 4pm, tea and biscuits included, Voices Together, award winning female singing group, Whitehouse Baptist Church, Waterford Road, Ipswich, 7.30pm - 9pm. Friendly rehearsals. No auditions, Easy listening music, Interested? Call Kath 01473 652351 Beginners Ballroom and Latin Class, 22 Bond Street, Ipswich, 6.30pm - 7.30pm, 07736 306519

Every Thursday

Yoga, Sidegate Lane Community Centre, Ipswich, 10am - 11am, £3.30 per session, New

EVENTS

guide

members welcome, For further information contact 01473 727796.

Carpet bowls, Nacton Village Hall, 7.30pm and have a go, First 3 visits free, then £2 per evening if you like us and want to stay. A sociable and fun evening, Just turn up!

Badminton, Handford Hall School, Gatacre Rd, Ipswich, 7.15pm - 9.30pm, experienced players and beginners always very welcome, for a free taster session or more information contact Adrian 01473 464920 Carpet Bowls, Sidegate Lane Community Centre, Ipswich, 2pm – 4.15pm, £2.80 includes tea & Biscuits, for further information telephone 01473 725274, Woodbridge Country Market, Woodbridge Community Hall, next to Deben Pool, 10am - 11.15am, Local Home Produced Food, Plants, Vegetables and Hand made crafts for sale, Comfortable tea room to meet your friends, Open to all Free Entry.

Ipswich Country Market, Rushmere Village Hall, Humber Doucy Lane, 10.15am to 11.30am, Local Food, Handmade Crafts. Free Entry, Coffee and Chat: informal coffee morning with activities, 10am – 12pm All Saints Church Hall Blenheim Road, Ipswich

Every Friday

Country Market, Trades and Labour Club, High Road West, Felixstowe, 10am – 11am, Preserves, eggs, garden produce and crafts, 01394 272003, www.country-markets.co.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

Strictly Fun, Ipswich School of Dancing, Bond Street, Ipswich, 6pm – 7pm, learn cha cha and waltz like your favourite Strictly Celebrities, 01473 251323 Children’s Cheerleading Classes, Inspire Suffolk, Lindbergh Road, Ipswich, 9am, £2 per child, Contact 07825 498730

Sun 1st Mar

We’ve got Rhythm! Audience participation “supersonic Percussion”, Ipswich Corn Exchange, Ipswich, 2.30pm Woodbridge Book Fair, Community Hall, Station Road, Woodbridge. IP12 4AU.10am4pm. Admission £1. 20 exhibitors offering wide range of secondhand, out of print and antiquarian books. Also some postcards, prints and ephemera. www.missingbookfairs.co.uk or 01245 361609

Have your Event Listed Free!!

Email: info@ipswich24.co.uk Post: Suite 9, 85 Dales Rd, Ipswich IP1 4JR Wed 4th Mar

Afternoon Tea Walk, Starts Ipswich Tourist Information at 2pm, £8. Book at Ipswich TIC. Orwell Decorative and Fine Arts Society Monthly Meeting, Tower Hall, Rushmere St Andrew IP4 5SU, 2pm for 2.15pm, Illustrated Talk: ‘Adventures and Misadventures in Museums’ by David Phillips, Non-members welcome £5 donation asked

Tue 10th Mar

Ipswich and District Historical Transport Society presentation on the Sailing Barges to Dunkirk and illustrated presentation by Barbara Butler, Ipswich, Ascension Hall, Larchcroft Road, Ipswich, 7.30pm, 01473 42214

Wed 11th Mar

Thursday Forum at Christ Church, Tacket Street, Ipswich, 12pm – 1pm. “Emmaus – The Homeless Charity Works.”

Felixstowe Family History Society Meeting at Broadway House, Orwell Road, Felixstowe IP11 7DD, The talk will be ‘Suffolk Surnames’ with Charlie Haylock, Starts 7.30pm, Admission free to members and £1.00 for non-members, Plenty of free parking,Refreshments will be available.

Fri 6th Mar – Sun 8th Mar

Thu 12th Mar

Thu 5th Mar

Open Days at Freston Tower, Near Ipswich, 10am - 4pm, Entry Free.

Fri 6th Mar

A Suffolk Libraries Bookfest, Felixstowe Library, Felixstowe, 6.30pm, Cookery demonstration and talk by food writer and Daily Mail columnist Anne Shooter, Anne will talk about her new book Sesame and Spice, Tickets £7 available online: www.suffolklibraries.co.uk Martlesham Heath Aviation Society, Monthly Meeting, Main Hall, Martlesham Heath Community Centre, Old Felixstowe Road (behind Tesco), Martlesham Heath, 7.30pm, Rod Dean presents an illustrated Talk entitled: Flying and Displaying Vintage Aircraft, Admission £3 (members) £4 (non-members), Pay on arrival - pre-booking not required, New members may join the Society on the night if they wish.

Call: H King on 01473 274300 for information.

Sat 7th Mar

Music in Time of War by Tower Chamber Choir, St Mary-le-Tower Church, Ipswich, 7.30pm, Tickets £10 or £5, Available by phone 01473 251618 or from Music World Barn Dance, Kesgrave High School, Kesgrave, 7.30pm – 11.30pm, Adult £8, Children £4, Tickets from Phil Smith 01473 415738 or 07870 441875. Proceeds to 14th Ipswich Scout Group.

Sun 8th Mar

Kammerphilharmonie Europa, St Mary’s Church, East Bergholt, 4pm, £12.50, 01206 298426 Peachy Keen Vintage Fair, St Peter’s By the Water Front, St Peter’s Church, Ipswich, 11am – 4pm, £2 entry

Tue 10th Mar – Sat 28th Mar

Different Buttons, Red Rose Chain, Written and directed by Joanna Carrick, to book tickets contact 01473 603388

Guest Lecture; Anti Doping and Elite Sport by professor John Brewer, Ipswich, UCS Auditorium, The Waterfront Building, 5.30pm, to book or for more information email theucsacademy@ucs.ac.uk Ipswich RSPB Local Group Indoor Meeting, ‘Birds of Morocco, Coast, Mountains and Desert’, an illustrated talk by David Walsh, Suffolk Birder and Tour Leader, Sidegate Lane School, 7.30pm. Admission: Local Group members £2.00 (concessions apply), NonMembers £3.00, includes refreshments, Contact 01473 423213, All welcome.

Sat 14th Mar

Craft & Gift Fair, St Peter’s By the Water Front, St Peter’s Church, Ipswich, 10am – 4pm, Free Entry, A great selection of stalls from local crafters and sellers with a variety of gifts for Mothers Day and Easter, A Felixstowe Birding Day for late winter & spring birds, Meet at 8.30am at Landguard Point car park, TM283320, 2miles, 10.30am at Golf Road for Cobbolds Point. TM317355. 2miles and/or 12.30pm at Felixstowe Ferry.TM327376, 4miles, Join us for all or part of the day, Contact 01473 258791, All welcome.

Sun 15th Mar

Ipswich Jazz Club Present Mark Crooks, California Social Club, 195 Foxhall Road Ipswich, IP3 8LB, 7.30pm, 01473 231552, www.ipswichjazzclub.co.uk

Tue 17 Mar

UCS History Lectures, Crime and Deviance. Dr Harvey Osborne. The Hintlesham murder 1834, 7pm, Admission free, all welcome Ipswich RSPB Local Group Midweek Walk round Bourne Bridge area and park. Meet at 10.00am at Bourne Park car park (Bourne Bridge entrance). 2 hrs. Map ref TM161419.

Contact 01473 714839. All welcome.

Copy Deadline for April issue: Friday 13th March Email: info@ipswich24.co.uk – Please put “Listings” in subject title

EVENTS

guide

Wed 18th Mar

Cardinal Connections, Afternoon Tea Walk, Starting from Ipswich Tourist Information at 2pm, £8, Book at Ipswich TIC.

Thu 19th Mar

Ipswich Branch, Suffolk Family History Society, Monthly Meeting, 7.30pm, The Red Cross Hall, Chevallier Street, Ipswich, 7.30pm, Gill Blanchard presents: “Tracing your East Anglian Ancestors”, Admission £3 per person for Society members £3:50 per person for non members, who are also warmly welcomed - you can join the Society at the meeting if you wish.

Tickets are not required - just turn up, For more information on this Event, and the Branch call H King on 01473 274300

Sat 21st Mar

Ceilidhs on the Move with Skylarking, The Village Hall, Clopton, Nr Woodbridge, 7pm, Adults £8, Youths £4, U 10s Free- Family £20, 01394 383329 Mayors Charity Ball, Town Hall and Corn Exchange, Ipswich, 6.30pm, £60 per person, to book tickets contact Christine Christensen on 01473 432641 Felixstowe Family History Society Open Day, At ‘The Tree House’, Maidstone Road, Felixstowe, from 10am - 4pm, Admission is free and there will be free access to The Genealogist website, Come and use the Society’s facilities and talk to experienced members, Get started with or further your research, Free parking.

A Suffolk Libraries Bookfest, Felixstowe Library, Felixstowe, 2pm, Workshop with writer and illustrator Gillian McClure, Learn about creating a picture book. Tickets £5 available online: www.suffolklibraries.co.uk

Sun 22nd Mar

Ransomes & Rapier Annual Reunion, Kesgrave Social Club, Edmonton Road, Kesgrave, 12.30pm – 5pm, Bring along your stories and pictures - a new edition of a book is being researched to become Book number 2, All past employees of Ransomes and Rapier, members of their Families and friends are welcomed.

Free Parking available, and refreshments at very reasonable prices is available to buy, £2 per person to help pay for the Hall Hire, If coming, please call Elizabeth Townsend on 01206 734581

Sun 29th Mar

Retro Classic Cars, Ipswich Transport Museum, Ipswich, 11am – 4pm, Featuring cars from 1970’s and 80’s.

EACH Craft and Gift Fair, Greshams Sports Club, Tuddenham Road, Ipswich, 12pm – 4.30pm, 45 stalls selling items such as cards, cakes, jewellery, handbags, body products, handmade gifts and much more, Admission and parking is free, and any donations will go towards EACH. 15

One of UK’s best live acts come to Ipswich Bellowhead return to the Ipswich Regent Theatre, on Wednesday 22nd April.

Britain’s most successful traditional folk act Bellowhead were 10 years old last year. Not only did they mark their birthday in April 14 with two of their biggest sold out shows to date Manchester’s Bridgewater Hall and London’s Royal Albert Hall - they also surprised the audience by announcing that they signed to legendary label Island Records and soon after released a brand new album “Revival” featuring their powerful and eclectic take on traditional English folksong.

They continued their anniversary celebrations with shows during the summer, their biggest ever UK tour in November 2014 and the announcement of a further 11 dates in April 2015, where they will be playing tracks from the new album plus all the old favourites.

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Bellowhead are widely praised for their stunning live shows and often acknowledged as one of the best live acts the UK has produced in recent years, wowing audiences in venues across the UK, Europe and North America and becoming a key fixture on the festival scene. In the process they’ve won BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards Best Live Act an amazing 5 times, as well as Best Group twice.

A blistering 11-piece band fusing folk, funk, rock, world, jazz, music hall and classical music, they have placed themselves at the cutting edge of the contemporary music scene while harnessing all the power and mystery of English and European musical traditions.

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

Killer Queen set to Rule the Regent stage Killer Queen formed back in June 1993. Their first public shows were at London University, following in the footsteps of the real Queen who had played their first shows there 21 years earlier.

By 1995 Killer Queen’s UK popularity had grown to such an extent they secured a residency in London’s Strand Theatre attracting nationwide BBC coverage - the first tribute to have a show in the West End. The band’s reputation continued to grow both in the UK and abroad. In 1999 they returned from a tour of and Europe and Russia for an awards ceremony in Leicester Square, hosted by Suggs from Madness. He announced they had won the award for “Worldwide Best Tribute Band”.

Queen’s music is loved the world over. Their songs have inspired generations. Recreating the

Concert at St John’s

St John the Baptist Church in Ipswich is the venue for an evening of Spring music. Trianon Music Group’s choir and orchestra perform at the church in Cauldwell Hall Road on Saturday 18th April 2015 at 7.30pm.

Guest conductor Stephen Rumsey makes a welcome return for this concert, which features music composed during the Romantic period in the 19th and early 20th century.

The programme includes Tchaikovsky’s Marche Slav, a selection from Rachmaninov’s vespers, Sibelius’ Symphony No 5 and Verdi’s Four Sacred Pieces.

Listen for the final movement of the Sibelius Symphony, which includes a lovely motif. It is said that Sibelius was inspired to write this when he saw swans circling in flight overhead.

Tickets are available from £8, Concessions from £7 and Students and U16 £5. Contact the TrianonTicket Line 01394 283170 or 07876 787029. Tickets also available from the Ipswich Tourist Information Centre and online at www.ipswichregent.com T: 01473 433100.

songs on a world stage takes a great deal of skill and Killer Queen’s musicianship is outstanding.

During their various careers the musicians have worked and recorded with a vast array of artistes including Roger Taylor, Brian May and Monseratte Caballe.

2009 saw a triumphant return to a sold out Ahoy stadium with their acclaimed “Queen Spectacular” production and another award, this time from Sweden’s Vasteras concert hall “Best Concert of The Year 2009”. 2013 saw them performing in another one of Queen’s former venues, this time the Brighton Centre to celebrate their 20th Anniversary.

• Killer Queen will be performing at the Ipswich Regent Theatre on Sunday 12th April.

To book tickets contact the Box Office on 01473 433100.

Spring

serenade With just a week to the first day of Spring, the Suffolk Singers will be “Serenading Spring” on Saturday 14th March at St Michael’s Church, Framlingham under their dynamic Music Director, Claire Weston.

Music by Anerio, Bruckner, Byrd, Deruflé, Franck, Gjeilo, Goodall, Hutchings, Mealor, Mendelssohn, Tallis and Whitacre is on the programme.

The concert is at 7.30pm with tickets priced at £10 (including refreshments) and available from 01473 635525 and also Hall Farm Butchers in Framlingham.

See www.tmg.org.uk for more information or Twitter @MusicTrianon

Put on your dancing shoes and rock ‘n’ roll

Foxyrock Rock n Roll club must be one of Suffolk’s best-kept secrets.

If you like the music of the 1950’s then you will love this.

If you can’t dance or have never tried rock n roll then Foxyrock can show you some simple basic steps to get you going. The first 45 minutes is for beginners and improvers then it’s on with the rock n roll for the rest of the evening. With a resident DJ Crazy Nadge in charge of the music, there is rock n roll until 10.30 pm. There is a bar and plenty of car parking space available, plus food is usually available too!

The dance floor is fab and fully sprung – got to be one of the best for miles around. If you don’t want to dance then just come along to listen to the music and enjoy the social side.

Come along and give it a try on alternate Sundays at Kesgrave Social Club, Edmonton Road, Kesgrave, Ipswich, doors open 7.30 pm. (March dates: 15th and 29th).

A very friendly welcome awaits you. Foxyrock is run by Sharon, for more information you can contact her by calling 07542036527 or email info@foxyrock.co.uk.

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Have your Event Listed Free!!

Email: info@ipswich24.co.uk Post: Suite 9, 85 Dales Rd, Ipswich IP1 4JR Sun 1st Mar

• Silbury Hill

GIGguide

•Hurricane Alley

BLARNEY ROVERS, Isaacs on the Quay, Ipswich, 3pm FOXY ROCK, Kesgrave Social Club, Kesgrave WAX ON THE WATERFRONT, The Steamboat Tavern, Ipswich, 4pm – 8pm KARAOKE WITH BOZ, The Dolphin Hotel, Felixstowe, 3pm

Thu 5th Mar

IPSWICH JAM NIGHT, The Grinning Rat, Ipswich TERRY LEE TRAVIS, Olives Bar, Orwell Crossing, A14 East, Nacton SUFFOLK SONGWRITERS OPEN MIC NIGHT, The Steamboat Tavern, Ipswich

Fri 6th Mar

HABU, S.A.D, LIVE MI, The Grinning Rat, Ipswich COLOURBLIND HEDGEHOGS, The Mulberry Tree, Ipswich JIM WORTON, Olives Bar, Orwell Crossing, A14 East, Nacton BARNABY COURTNEY, THE WILDFIRES, The Steamboat Tavern, Ipswich. 8.30pm

Sat 7th Mar

WULLY BULLY, The Grinning Rat, Ipswich THE KICKS, JACK THE LAD, THE FANNY PADS, THE 4130’s, The Steamboat Tavern, Ipswich A WHOLE SONG, Jazz By the Water Front, St Peter’s Church, Ipswich, 7.30pm TERRY LEE TRAVIS, Kesgrave Social Club, Kesgrave

Sun 8th Mar

LAURA CLIMPSON, Isaacs on the Quay, Ipswich, 3pm JAZZ LUNCH featuring THE GIPPING VALLEY STOMPERS, The Steamboat Tavern, Ipswich, 2pm

Sat 14th Mar

SCOTT FREEMAN, MEG BURROWS, The Steamboat Tavern, Ipswich SILBURY HILL, Moon & Mushroom, Swilland, Ipswich, 8.30pm ROOTN TOOTN, Kesgrave Social Club, Kesgrave

Sun 15th Mar

BUBLE AND SWING WITH CASPER CLARKE, Isaacs on the Quay, Ipswich, 3pm TERRY LEE TRAVIS, Olives Bar, Orwell Crossing, A14 East, Nacton MARTIN RUDDY/MARSHALL KING, Kesgrave Social Club, Kesgrave, 11am FOXY ROCK, Kesgrave Social Club, Kesgrave

Thu 19th Mar

IPSWICH JAM NIGHT, The Grinning Rat, Ipswich THE REAL McCOY, Olives Bar, Orwell Crossing, A14 East, Nacton

Fri 20th Mar

DJ OLAS BOSS, The Grinning Rat, Ipswich DARWIN AND THE DINOSAUR, DEAR SLEEPER, The Steamboat Tavern, Ipswich JOHNNY WILLIAMS & LYSETTE MARIE, Olives Bar, Orwell Crossing, A14 East, Nacton • Colourblind Hedgehogs

DRAGON FRUIT, Sorrel Horse, Shottisham

Tue 10th Mar

OPEN MIC NIGHT with ADEM ONIBIYO, The Grinning Rat, Ipswich

PURE ACOUSTICS, The Grinning Rat, Ipswich GOING BACK, Olives Bar, Orwell Crossing, A14 East, Nacton

Fri 13th Mar

DAVE PAISLEY, Olives Bar, Orwell Crossing, A14 East, Nacton Ipswich24 cannot be held responsible for cancellation of events. If in doubt please check with venue before travelling

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HURRICANE ALLEY, The Grinning Rat, Ipswich GEMMA B, Isaacs on the Quay, Ipswich, 3pm

Tue 24th Mar

OPEN MIC NIGHT, The Grinning Rat, Ipswich

Thu 26th Mar

WORDS & MUSIC, Olives Bar, Orwell Crossing, A14 East, Nacton FOLK AT THE BOAT, The Steamboat Tavern, Ipswich

Fri 27th Mar

KARAOKE, The Grinning Rat, Ipswich JOHNNY MARKS, Olives Bar, Orwell Crossing, A14 East, Nacton

Sat 28th Mar

RENEGADE TWELVE, The Grinning Rat, Ipswich

Sun 29th Mar

A-TEAM, The Grinning Rat, Ipswich CHELSEA FRANCIS AT ADELE, Isaacs on the Quay, Ipswich, 3pm FOXY ROCK, Kesgrave Social Club, Kesgrave JAZZ LUNCH featuring LA FONTAINE ENSEMBLE, The Steamboat Tavern, Ipswich, 2pm

Mon 30th Mar

MONDAY PUNK NIGHT, The Steamboat Tavern, Ipswich

Mon 9th Mar

Thu 12th Mar

Sun 22nd Mar

Sat 21st Mar

ROXOFF, The Grinning Rat, Ipswich COLOURBLIND HEDGEHOGS, The Plough, Ipswich THE ROCKATONES, The Steamboat Tavern, Ipswich, 9pm SILBURY HILL, The Pier, Southend, 10.30am – 4.30pm SILBURY HILL, Chinnery’s, Southend, 7.30pm

ADVERTISE YOUR GIG HERE FREE!!!!

DEADLINE FOR APRIL. GIG LISTINGS

Friday 13th March Email: Gigs@ipswich24.co.uk

PRIZE COMP

Win tickets to Garden and Dog Show Aztec’s hugely popular Suffolk Garden Show is set to bloom again next month (April) alongside the pawsitively spectacular All About Dogs show and Ipswich24 has got 25 family tickets up for grabs.

Featuring a treasure trove of the finest trees, shrubs, flowers and pot plants, green-fingered enthusiasts can explore ornaments, water features and much more when the show opens at the Trinity Park showground this Easter from Saturday 4th until Monday 6th April 2014.

Whether you’re looking to create a fun space, organic vegetable plot or family friendly patio, the unforgettable three-day show will be brimming with local garden designers, landscapers and tree specialists offering spades of expert advice to transform your garden into your chosen haven.

The extensive range of stands in the Shopping Villages and Indoor Shopping Marquees will offer a fantastic chance to see all the latest product launches and an array of useful gardening tools and gadgets, and plants at special event prices.

Visitors can even unearth an array of stunning homewares, crafts and gifts including beautiful

handcrafted jewellery, metal work and artwork – all from the Suffolk region.

New and improved for 2015, the Food & Drink Festival will be filled with the aromas of wonderful cheeses, sumptuous sausages, fine wines, pickles, chutneys and more with many stallholders tempting visitors with ‘try before you buy’ nibbles.

Elsewhere on 5th and 6th April the All About Dogs show will be offering a whole host of canine fun for the whole family. With entertaining demonstrations by Kidgility, Conquest K9 Norfolk and Suffolk Dog School and the Lowestoft dog team as well as plenty of ‘have a go’ games and competitions, this show really offers the chance to give your four-legged friends their own special day out. Why not enter the Easter Bonnet Parade or be part of the new canine-friendly Easter Egg

Hunt? Clues to discover the delicious Natures Menu doggie treats, which will be placed across the showground.

• For more information or to book discounted advance tickets to the shows, visit: www.aztecevents.co.uk.

— COMPETITION — To be in with a chance of winning one of 25 family tickets to the show, simply send your answer to the following question, along with your name and address and a contact telephone number to: Aztec 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 31st March 2015.

Q. How many family tickets for the Suffolk Garden Show do Ipswich24 have up for grabs?

Bringing some sunshine into your home Is all this grey weather putting you in the mood to brighten up your home and bring a little bit of sunshine inside?

Just a few small changes can make all the difference to how your room feels, and needn’t put a huge strain on your bank account!

If you are looking for something a little different from what you see in all the big department stores come and take a look at Delvaux in Felixstowe. You will find a fantastic range of canvas artwork or how about a painted ceramic tile for that continental look?

An unusual clock makes a feature on a bare wall or placing a beautiful mirror is always a good way to introduce more light into a room and gives the illusion of space.

If your walls are full how about a new ornament for your console table or fireplace? Delvaux offers a stunning choice of handmade glass, ceramics, carved wood as well as Frith bronzes and Edge sculptures.

So, if you want to make some changes to your home, a trip to Delvaux in Felixstowe is definitely worthwhile.

Delvaux is at 116 Hamilton Road Felixstowe (opposite Prezzo) Open 10.00am until 5.00pm, Monday to Saturday.

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— ADVERTORIAL —

New Custom Kitchen & Furniture Showroom now open in Ipswich Touchwood UK has opened a brand new showroom on Woodbridge Road, Ipswich.

Touchwood UK have been making furniture and kitchens for over 22 years from their workshops in Martlesham. However, this new venture means that the family-run business now has additional showroom space to showcase their large range of bespoke kitchens, bedrooms, furniture and interiors.

By choosing Touchwood UK for your new kitchen or furniture, you are safe in the knowledge that you will be dealing with a local independent company who provide an unbeatable personal service. All our handmade kitchens are designed and produced to your exact requirements right down to the last detail by our experienced and highly skilled team of designers and craftsmen.

We offer a free on-site survey and design service for our kitchens ensuring your finished kitchen suits you and your family’s needs. We offer a wide range of hand made kitchens designed and manufactured by Touchwood UK, along with off-the-shelf kitchens to suit all budgets and styles, whether that be traditional, contemporary or modern. Should you choose a handmade kitchen, your kitchen will be designed, manufactured and fitted to a very high standard by our own team. Should you choose an offthe-shelf kitchen, our team will ensure it is designed and fitted to your exact requirements. Touchwood UK can create your dream kitchen at very competitive prices.

We also display a selection of flooring, kitchen appliances, worktops, lamps and home accessories for you to browse.

In addition to our kitchens, we also offer a wide range of bespoke fitted bedrooms, furniture and interiors. Our own bedrooms and furniture are designed and hand made to your specific requests and requirements. We also have a range of off-the-shelf bedrooms which our team will design and fit to a very high standard.

If you are looking for a new kitchen, a new bedroom or require any other

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item of furniture for your home, why not stop by our new showroom where there is adequate parking, for a cup of tea or coffee and have a chat with us to see what Touchwood UK can do for you and your home.

• Touchwood UK Bespoke Kitchens’ new showroom is now open: 907 Woodbridge Road, Ipswich, IP4 4NX. Telephone - 01473 716100

Tasty warming recipe When Spring is finally on it’s way and the sun starts to shine through, it will be time to put a spring back in your step with some fresh, nutritious meals that will help shed those winter blues for good.

Canned Food UK recipes combine fresh, frozen and canned ingredients to ensure they offer you all you need for a balanced diet. Plenty count towards your 5-A-DAY, and they don’t have to be labour intensive to make, thanks to the canned ingredients that are ready to use straight from the can.

Another benefit of using canned food is that it’s available all year round, so there’s no need to wait for ingredients to ‘come into season’. As part of the canning process, fruit and vegetables are picked at the most optimum time and taken to the cannery, where the ingredients are sealed and then cooked in the can, so all the goodness and nutrients get locked in.

More the average garden centre Laurel Farm Garden Centre is one of the largest and best stocked independent Garden Centres in Ipswich.

However Laurel Farm is much more than just a Garden Centre, here you will also find a professional florist service and a beautiful Cafe.

Over the Christmas period the Coffee Shop had a makeover and now looks even more inviting. The new spring menu is going down well and has already had lots of compliments from both new and old customers. There is also a breakfast menu available daily from 9am until 11am, all for just £5.99!

Also on over are monthly special events, the Valentine meal was a great success and Laurel Farm are now taking bookings for their Sunday Mother’s Day meal. The Farm also held a Vintage Weekend, which was a great success with visitors - look out for their next event in the Summer.

So, if you’re looking to eat more healthily or just want to refresh your week night meals this spring, why not try some delicious, affordable, and easy to make recipes form Canned Food UK, which are all 500 calories or less?

For recipe ideas and further information on Canned Food UK, visit www.cannedfood.co.uk. Alternatively, why not download Canned Food UK’s free u.can cook iPhone App, which has plenty of affordable and nutritional recipes that only need a few minutes’ preparation? Available through the iTunes App Store, it features more than 90 delicious recipes and a selection of step-by-step video demonstrations by celebrity chef James Martin.

Chilli Pork Stir-fry Ready in 15 minutes, this tasty stir-fry is packed with vegetables and only contains 239 calories.

Ingredients: 225g can bamboo shoots, drained 400g can chopped tomatoes 500g minced pork 1 onion, diced

1 red pepper, diced 1 Tbsp oil 1 clove garlic, crushed 1 tsp chilli powder 2 Tbsp soy sauce

Method: 1. Heat the oil in a wok or deep-sided frying pan.

2. Add the garlic, chilli powder and mince and stir-fry for five minutes until the mince is browned.

3. Add the onion and red pepper, and stir fry for a further minute.

4. Then add the bamboo shoots and tomatoes and stir-fry on a high heat for a further two or three minutes.

5. Stir in the soy sauce and serve.

Hints and Tips For more exotic ingredients that don’t cost the earth, try adding some canned water chestnuts to this dish.

Also at Laurel Farm you will find Clara Bow Vintage Shop, which has been trading at Laurel Farm for just over a year. Over the past 12 months Clara Bow has seen a few changes and they now have lots to offer everyone from vintage clothes, bags, hats and shoes. Go back in time and remember your favourite TV programmes and toys. All furniture is up-cycled using their own vintage material and unique ideas.

Providing over four acres of garden centre, and nursery, Laurel Farm has everything for the dedicated and occasional gardener alike, plus lots of ideas for the home as well.

So whether you are looking for that special plant, want somewhere interesting and friendly to browse around or maybe you wish to relax with a nice hot drink and a slice of yummy cake then Laurel Farm Garden Centre is the place to come.

It’s much more than just a garden centre!

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Social enterprise projects reaches new heights Social enterprise Lofty Heights, which works to create warmer, safer, cosier homes for elderly people in Suffolk, has started the year on a high, moving to their own premises in the Mallard House Business Centre in Little Bealings. With an exciting new business opportunity, an updated website and a new team of young people, Lofty Heights is at an all-time high.

Lofty Heights have for the first time moved into their own office premises, which has been made possible through Councillor Sarah Adams at Suffolk County Council, along with nine of her

Councillor colleagues who all contributed from their locality budgets to enable Lofty Heights to pay for the first year of office running costs.

The difference this will make to the Lofty Heights team is incredible; up until now Lofty Heights has been run from Founder Olive Quinton’s kitchen table, The Eastern Enterprise Hub, the back of the van as well as various coffee shops around the county. Olive Quinton, Chief Executive and Founder of Lofty Heights said, “This funding provides us with the opportunity to build on the hard work and foundations laid over the last two and a half years so that we can further develop our services, create more opportunities for young people and work towards Lofty Heights’ sustainable future”.

Lofty Heights’ new service involves installing raised storage platforms in lofts, so that possessions can be stored over new thicker insulation without affecting its efficiency.

They hope this will encourage people who were previously reluctant to have their lofts emptied and insulated, to consider it now.

Lofty Heights are very excited for the year ahead and the prospect of helping more young people into work as well as assisting vulnerable people across the county to have warmer, safer homes.

If you’d like to get in touch with Lofty Heights who provide a complete loft, home and garden de-cluttering service, you can find out more information at www.lofty-heights.org or you can call them on 01473 871109 or 07745215114.

EXCITING FABRICS At Kis Quilting they have an exciting range of fabrics on offer including, Moda, Timeless Treasure, Riley Blake and many more. Also on offer are workshops for beginners, ongoing projects and one off classes for all levels of quilters.

Kis Quilting is a new and friendly patchwork and quilting shop, situated at Basepoint near Ipswich.

The shop is run by Carole, Jenny, Lynn and Sue who have a real passion for quilting and fabric and who wanted to share their skills and enthusiasm with other like-minded people in their relaxed and friendly studio.

If you want to start a new project, finish an ongoing project, or have an informal, relaxed sit & sew session then Kis Quilting is the place to visit with classes being run mornings, afternoons and evenings. Plus, feel free to share your own ideas or get inspiration and help with your quilting projects whilst enjoying a cuppa and a biscuit in a relaxed atmosphere.

For more information on classes or sit and sew sessions please call Kis Quilting on 01473 722888 or email them at kisquiltingltd@yahoo.co.uk, like on Facebook or visit the shop at Kis Quilting Ltd, Unit 66, Basepoint, 70-72 The Havens, Suffolk IP3 9BF The team at Kis quilting very much look forward to seeing you soon.

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TURNING TO TEXTURES More and more people are starting to renovate their homes and with the increase in this market, flooring companies are bringing different ranges. Colour and stripe was the first new area to receive some great new designs in carpets. But now the new trend this is for texture.

Whether it is a stripe effect or deep sculptured wool loop piles, carpets are offering more choice than ever before.

Not to be left out the Kitchen and Bathroom and can benefit from some fantastic textured products. They may not be as defined as the carpets designs, but the new textured effect wood and stone design vinyl offers excellent features. With the texture of the woodgain or the feel of the stone built into wear layer of the vinyl. Everyone that sees your new vinyl floor will struggle to tell if you have just had a new wood or stone floor. Another useful feature is the textured wear layer adds anti slip benefits so making this flooring ideal for areas where the floor can become wet or slippery!

For more information about these fantastic new flooring ideas take a visit to Archway Carpets in Woodbridge or call 01394 386684 or visit www.archwaycarpets.co.uk

Stuck At The Lights We are forever being told to conserve everything. Not a day goes by without us being told that something is precious, something else is causing the North Pole to melt and something else ‘because we don’t like being dependant on Russia’. Specifically - Electricity, because we have chosen to produce most of our energy with carbon emitting coal and gas.

Water, because we haven’t built enough reservoirs and tons of the stuff spills out of leaky pipes. Gas, because burning it creates yet more carbon – and of course petrol and diesel because it was invented by Satan and you’re are a sinner for going near a car.

Then why oh why are we forced to waste petrol and diesel in such great quantities? It is a case of fact that cars, buses, lorries... anything is at its most inefficient when it is accelerating. So, stopping and starting every five yards is clearly a very bad thing that uses lots of fuel,

costs lots of money and creates floods in Somerset.

team? Who is the next Harvey Smith?

Yet when you take any journey along our busiest streets what do you find. Traffic lights. Traffic light after traffic light and if there’s a space, build yet more traffic lights.

This constant stopping, starting, crawling and waiting is without much doubt a disastrous waste of money, resource and time that impacts on pockets, blood pressure, business and the planet.

The reason for this pry into your sporting knowledge is a bit of a gripe. When I were a lad we had all these sporting celebrities.

From snooker, darts, cricket, show jumping, athletics... We appreciated a wide range of sport and knew lots about all the sports. Then something happened. Something called TV rights.

Here in Ipswich we are supposed to have intelligent lights that detect queues, aid traffic flow and prevent you sitting stationary for no apparent reason.

I don’t see it. Nor do I see any intelligence in cramming the streets of Ipswich with the red amber and green of thoughtlessness.

To be clear I have nothing against Sky. I am a subscriber and they do what they do very well. What bothers me is that vast swaths of the populous never get to see so many sports. And that is a problem for those sports. Surely it is in the interest of the public, the sport and next potential champion to be able to see a range of sports on the TV without paying a King’s ransom.

ITV, Channel 4 or 5 OR the BBC, I

am not fussed – just as long as summers like the 2005 Ashes series can once again involve everyone.

Wet Letters This month my wife was asked a number of stupid questions. Not by stupid people, but by those who are allegedly intelligent. A lawyer wrote to her and asked her to confirm her address. This she did by returning the letter back to them with a note saying ‘Yep, I live here’. Then they wrote and asked her to confirm she was over 18. This is the firm that are dealing with her late mother’s will – a will that Karen was made an executor of thirty years ago…

Can one be charged for a solicitor’s letter that is written by an idiot?

See you in April

Sky’s The Limit A question or two for you… Name a current snooker player. Who is captain of the England cricket

Easter Fayre An Easter Fayre, in aid of Guide Dogs for the Blind will take place at Brackenbury Sports Centre, High Road East, Felixstowe on Sunday 22nd March from 10am until 4pm. A wide variety of craft and gift stalls will be in attendance, plus, live entertainment from Fresh Gold Radio.

There will also be a Children’s colouring competition and an Easter treasure hunt. Come along and meet Guide Dogs and pups in training.

Help support the East and Mid Suffolk volunteer branch of Guide Dogs.

Entry is by donation.

Scene Around

A Town Lecture entitled Scene Around by Glynn Thomas will be at Museum Street Methodist Church, Ipswich on Thursday 12th March from 1.00pm to 1.50pm.

Etching has been an art form for over 500 years, with more varied techniques created than in any other printmaking method. Glynn touches on some of these processes and explains how he creates his etchings, from initial drawings to the finished print. He will also define what ‘limited edition print’ should mean, but often doesn’t.

Glynn Thomas RE, a Cambridge Art School student in the early 1960s, came to Suffolk to teach Printmaking at the Ipswich Art School, leaving after 11 years to become a full-time artist. He is a Fellow of the Royal Society of Painter/ Etchers.

Tea and coffee with biscuits are available. The kettle will be on the hob at 12.30pm. Although admission is free, a retiring collection of £2.00 will be appreciated. This is to defray expenses incurred in hosting the series.

More details can be obtained from secretary@ipswich-arts.org.uk www.ipswich-arts.org.uk or Tel. 01473 836973 23

The Tractor Boy Column

Suffolk’s youngest sports pundit

If someone was to ask you “How do you play handball” I’m sure the majority of you would be left stumped for an answer. However, there must be a reason why in January 2011 some 3.2 million Danes – corresponding to 60 percent of the entire population – watched the men’s handball World Championship from the nation’s sofas. 60 percent! That I find a quite phenomenal statistic, for a sport that to be honest 60 percent of Brits have probably never even heard of. And, until last month I hadn’t really heard of it either, but as you will find out in this month’s article I most certainly have now…

Having done a few exercises to get the blood coursing through are veins we began to move into the different elements of match play, it was at this point my first preconception of handball, that it was basically a version of netball for men, was proved entirely wrong. You can dribble similarly to basketball in handball and actually standing still when you have the ball is most certainly not advised. Secondly, handball is a far more physical sport than I anticipated, very much full contact and defenders can attempt to prise the ball out of your (hopefully) vice like grasp with plenty of vigour before they are penalised.

Strolling out of the PE department at my school I was suddenly collared by our head of PE, a few of my friends and I were quickly informed that in a couple of weeks’ time former England women’s handball star, Louise Jukes would be coming to our school to teach us about leading handball.

We had been asked to take part in a few sessions with her, so that we could learn the rules and be able to referee and lead younger children, obviously we accepted (the fact we got to miss some school may well have been a reason for our eagerness). I had briefly watched handball being played and had some idea who she was but that was about all I had going into our first session.

Moving into a game situation I was immediately struck by the speed and intensity of the games.

Similarly to basketball, play can move from one end to the other in a matter of seconds, although unlike basketball it should result in a shot not in a hoop but in a net more similar to one Lionel Messi would hope to find the back of. In terms of my individual success, I’d be winding you up if I were to tell you to watch out for me in the coming years, however I sprayed a few passes around the court that I was pleased with. In addition, I may not have the physical prowess of others but after analysing how the game was played my team assigned me the role of attempting to

prevent the other team from scoring. By man marking their tallest player I was able to stop the service into him and after that they struggled to create anything of great significance, not the most thrilling job though I must say.

Overall, I can see why handball is so popular abroad, because of the fast pace and multiple attempts at goal there is never really a dull moment. Despite this the funding for it was cut by a whopping three million pounds by UK sport meaning it is unlikely Great Britain will be represented in Rio in a year’s time.

From my personal experience I would encourage it as much as possible, you never know in 10 year’s time it may be 60 percent of Brits settling down with their rich tea biscuit and lukewarm cup of tea to watch the 2025 handball world championships!

• Daniel Ford (aka “Tractor Boy”) would love to hear from readers with suggestions for future items in the column: Tractor Boy, c/o Ipswich24, PO Box 774, Ipswich, Suffolk IP1 9FW

Pass the Poppadums! The sky’s the limit for Ipswich teenager Local charity Inspire Suffolk cordially invites you to their next Charity Curry Night, kindly hosted for them by the Bombay Nite on Walton High Street in Walton, near Felixstowe. It’s a night filled with magic, a quiz, an auction and a raffle plus some fun games throughout the evening and four courses of some of the best curry dishes you’ll see in East Anglia!

If you’ve joined in a Bombay Charity Curry Night before you’ll know the fun doesn’t stop throughout this highly sociable night. So put Monday 27th April into your diaries and join Inspire Suffolk from 6.30pm at the Bombay Nite.

Tickets must be purchased in advance at £25 per head and your ticket price includes four delicious courses, a bottle of wine for the table and a guaranteed night of fun for you and your family and friends. To purchase your tickets call the Bombay Nite on 01394 272131 or 01394 270136 or you can call into Inspire Suffolk on Lindburgh Road in Ipswich (just off Nacton Road) to collect your tickets or call Inspire Suffolk on 0845 1369 333 - these nights are extremely popular so early booking is advised.

Bombay Nite, 285 High www.bombaynite.co.uk

Street,

Walton,

Felixstowe

IP11

9DZ

Attention all Golfers – Inspire Suffolk’s next Charity Golf Day is Friday 8th May at Seckford Golf Club so keep the date free in your diary and more details will follow next month.

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An 18-year-old from Ipswich is taking to the air to complete a sky dive to raise vital funds for Diabetes UK. Amelia Dodge’s father, 54-yearold Daryn Dodge, was diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes eight years ago. Since his diagnosis, Amelia has seen, first-hand, the full extent of help and support that Diabetes UK offers for people living with the condition.

Amelia, of Bramley Hill, Ipswich, said, “My dad has shown me that people can live full, healthy and active lives with Type 2 diabetes, if they are given the right care and information. I wanted to thank Diabetes UK for helping Dad and ensure others living with the condition get the same support.

What better way to fundraise than to jump out of a plane.”

Daryn, who originally is from Essex but now lives in Cornwall, volunteers as a speaker for Diabetes UK. He said, “When I was diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes it was a big shock but the support and information provided by Diabetes UK helped me to understand my condition and get it under control. There are so many myths about diabetes and so much more that could be done to prevent, which is why I volunteer as a speaker for the charity.”

Sharon Roberts, Diabetes UK Eastern Regional Manager, said, “A sky dive is a fantastic way to raise funds for Diabetes UK. Diabetes is a serious condition but if well managed people can live long and full lives. Just knowing that someone is there to listen or offer help and support can make the difference. Money raised from fundraisers like Amelia can help us to continue to tackle the challenge of diabetes on many fronts, by providing information, advice and support, campaigning for improved healthcare services and funding pioneering research into care, cure and prevention of all types of diabetes so we would like to say an enormous thank you to her.”

To sponsor Amelia’s sky dive visit www.justgiving.com/Amelia-Dodge

wellbeing

Anytime Fitness 24/7 Gym opening on the Waterfront in Ipswich It is hard not to notice that Anytime Fitness, the world’s largest and fastest growing 24-hour fitness franchise has been opening rapidly throughout the UK, and, they are pleased to announce that they are coming to Ipswich at the best location in town. Anytime Fitness is a refreshingly different fitness club, with over 2.5 million members and 2,755 clubs worldwide.

Anytime Fitness is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week giving its members the convenience to work out, whenever it suits their busy lifestyle. They know that people want the freedom and accessibility of services right when they need them, and this innovative thinking has led to their popularity.

Soon this convenience will be close to you! “We aim to open in approximately three to four weeks,” says Anytime Fitness Ipswich club owner Chris Hayden.

Anytime Fitness has over 46 clubs open throughout the UK and Ireland. Using a security access key, members can use the club at the time that suits their busy schedule. Remote monitoring of surveillance systems and personal safety devices ensure you are safe at all times.

“State of the art strength training and cardiovascular equipment will be offered and we look forward to being the number one fitness club in the area,” says Chris Hayden.

“Certified personal trainers will also be available to help you maximise your workout and challenge your personal limits. And best of all, when you join one club, you join them all, because your access key will give you access to

any club worldwide.” Every club also offers private bathrooms, which adds to the comfort and convenience of the clubs. To find out more about Anytime Fitness Ipswich and information on memberships, please call 01473 76 07 07 / 07908 407093 or visit www.anytimefitness.co.uk

Walking Football gathers pace in Ipswich A new Walking Football session has recently been launched in Ipswich as part of the ActivIpswich sports project. The brand new session will be held every Thursday afternoon between 3pm and 4pm at Gainsborough Sport and Community Centre in Ipswich.

The Walking Football sessions, which are also held at Whitton Sport and Community Centre on a Friday, are part of the ActivIpswich programme.

ActivIpswich is a partnership project between ActivLives (a local charity) and Ipswich Borough Council, which is funded by Sport England and the National Lottery. The programme is focussed upon enabling people who are over 45 years of age (there is no upper age limit!), to get involved in sport and physical activity.

“Walking Football is really growing in popularity, not only for ex-players of the game but also for many who haven’t played before – it’s a great way to stay active in a friendly environment.

The social element is really important to us as well, all of our activity sessions finish with a cuppa a biscuit and a chat”, said Mike McCarthy from the ActivIpswich Project.

These sessions are open to both women and men who are over the age of 45 and you don’t have to have played before to get involved.

The cost is £3.00 per session (the first session is free), with refreshments included.

If you would like to play a great game in a friendly, social atmosphere just drop in on a Thursday at 3pm at Gainsborough and give it a try or call Mike on 01473 345350 for more information.

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wellbeing

“I will start again on Monday?”

Why is it that no matter how much we want to lose weight, there is always something to tempt us and before we know it we are thinking “I will start again on Monday”. If this sounds like you then maybe Kay Fletcher Fitness can help.

At Kay Fletcher Fitness they offer sensible advice on healthy eating and portion control. And, this

combined with exercise, really is the only long term way to lose weight.

“There are so many “faddy” diets around, but the moment you say you are on a “diet” you start thinking about all the things you cannot have instead of all the things you can have.” says Kay Fletcher, “We know how hard it is to lose weight and so we work with all our members to

help them make healthy lifestyle changes, by eating less and doing more.

“We look at what your ideal body weight should be and work with you to help you achieve this. Every pound you lose is a pound closer to your goal.

MONDAY Pinewood Community Hall Laburnum Close IP8 3SL 9.30 – 10.45 am (Cardio Workout) 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) Suffolk One Scrivener Drive, Ipswich IP8 3SU 7:00 - 8:15pm (Cardio Workout)

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hardest part, however once you have made the decision to do it you should never look back, and if you have a goal to aim for it is much easier to stay focused and on track.

“Every time you exercise you are not only getting fitter, but also burning calories. Small changes can make a big difference over a period of time and losing just one pound per week for a year would mean you would lose three stone ten pound!”

If you are serious about making a lifestyle change and want to lose weight and get fitter then why not visit a Kay Fletcher Fitness class and see what they do. There is a choice of daytime and evening classes from Monday to Thursday in the local area, there is no membership fee and you are not tied into any contracts so it couldn’t be easier.

Taking the first step towards losing weight and getting fitter is often the

Call Kay for more information on 01473 613397.

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) New Class Opens 18/2/2015 Ipswich Academy Braziers Wood Road, Ipswich, IP3 0SP (Sports Hall) 6.30 – 7.45 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)

What size is a Healthy Portion?

by Jules Button

For many years, we have had it drummed into us that five portions of fruit and vegetables are enough to keep disease at bay and help us to live longer. However, a new study suggests that people who eat seven or more portions a day are healthier.

Researchers from University College London studied the dietary habits of 65,000 adults over a seven-year period. They concluded that: “A robust inverse association exists between fruit and vegetable consumption and mortality, with benefits seen in up to 7-plus portions daily.” This basically means, if you eat more fruit and vegetables, you will be healthier and could live longer.

It’s been a confusing time for consumers as a lot of adults are unsure as to exactly what a portion size is and what foods are classed as nutritional fruit and vegetables. According to a survey of 2,000 adults carried out by fruit juice

Seven support Headway Charity bike ride for 6th year running

This April marks the sixth year that Ipswich business, Seven have supported the annual Headway Cycle Ride with the team increasing in numbers and sponsorship each time they have entered. Joined by experienced and ‘not so experienced’ cyclists, Seven aim to beat last year’s fundraising total of £5,500 with the generous support of sponsors and others looking to get involved.

Seven have succeeded in winning the Headway trophy awarded for most money raised by an independent business six years in a row and hope to continue this winning streak with the next bike ride which takes place on the 25th April 2015. Having a current total of 26 cyclists in this year’s #teamseven they are seeking more individuals and businesses alike who fancy a challenge to join in the fun and support this fantastic charity.

The bike ride takes place on a Saturday with a 40 mile or an optional 30 mile circle route starting from Headway Ipswich and travelling around the Felixstowe area with all money raised going towards Headway Ipswich and East Suffolk.

Headway carry out amazing work for people who have suffered a severe head or brain injury, and the money raised through this bike ride will help them to continue to offer the fantastic services that so many people have benefited from and come to rely on.

Through Virgin Money Giving, you can sponsor Seven and donations will be quickly processed and passed to charities. Virgin Money Giving is a not for profit organisation and will claim gift aid on a charity’s behalf where the donor is eligible for this. Whether you are a fellow Ipswich business and fancy getting involved, or just a keen cyclist looking for a new challenge, sign up now and help raise money for a fantastic cause.

brand Tropicana, half of the adults were unaware that potatoes are not classed as a vegetable by the Department of Health because they are too “starchy” and 40 per cent were unaware that baked beans could form part of their daily intake.

So what exactly is a portion and are you getting enough?

According to official NHS guidelines, one adult portion of fruit or vegetables is 80 grams or about three ounces. But what does that look like in real food terms? Here is a list of fruit and vegetables with a guide as to what are classed as a portion: Two satsumas Two plums Seven strawberries Two kiwis Fourteen cherries One apple, pear, banana or large orange One heaped tablespoon of raisins, currants or sultanas Eight segments of tinned grapefruit (in own juice) Seven slices tinned peaches (in own juice) Two broccoli spears Five Brussels sprouts Four heaped tablespoons of cooked kale, spinach, spring greens or green beans Three long runner beans Three heaped tablespoons of carrots, peas or sweetcorn Eight cauliflower florets 5cm piece of cucumber One medium tomato Three heaped tbsp of baked beans, kidney, cannellini, butter beans or chickpeas.

One 150ml glass (no more) of unsweetened pure fruit or vegetable juice It is recommended that you don’t drink any more than 150ml of commercial fruit or vegetable juice per day because of the concentrated sugar levels (even in unsweetened). However if you freshly juice or blend your fruit and vegetables per day and are consuming the pith, skins and flesh of the foods then can be increased to approximately 500ml. Don’t forget to have a healthy intake of water per day to help the vitamins and minerals from the fruit and vegetables absorb into the body. It is recommended that adults should drink approximately 1.5 litres of water per day as well as several other drinks.

It has been proven time and again that eating fruit and vegetables helps stave off infections and diseases while increasing protection against cancer and promoting overall health. So folks it really is worth eating your fruit and vegetables if you want to be strong and healthy. One further tip; try and buy your food from locally grown sources or organic from the supermarkets.

The fruit and vegetables will have even more goodness in them. Health and Peace to you all – Jules • For more information about this article, Herbs, Vitamins, Naturopathic advice or Allergy Testing contact Jules Button (MSc BSc) Email: jules@rainbowapothecary.co.uk Web: www.rainbowapothecary.co.uk or call 01394 386777 or pop into Rainbow Apothecary 6E Church Street Woodbridge IP12 1DH

Headway charity: www.headway.org.uk/home.aspx Sevens fundraising page: http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/team/SevenHeadway2015

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