About Fram Magazine Online

about fram

Issue One Look no further than aboutfram, the local magazine that packs a Suffolk punch!

HOTEL RESTAURANT BAR

www.framlinghamcrown.co.uk

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N I W

contents

S AT S ACE ISON’ L P S R 4 R R NE HA ER DIN ARN T L E A P B SON ILN SEA RICK K 7 3 B E AT PAG

2 Golly! It’s Gosia

18 Get the look

Min Clough talks to Gosia, the lady in the driving seat of the Over the Moon Café.

Achieve a simple and stylish look with our interiors emporium.

4 Out and about

We bring you the latest news about town.

A round up of local events.

20 About town

8 Step into spring

24 There is a farm in Brandeston

pulse of what’s hot this spring.

Plus we bring you a lovely collection of the latest fashion.

We pull on our wellies for a trip to Bridge Farm where we meet the Westerns, and learns about their exciting plans for the Cool Room.

Geri Clarke has her finger on the

12 Me time!

Top tips for hair, skin and body care.

28 Unzipping the past

14 Making a statement

When Deborah Thomas uncovered 100’s of leather swatches in her father’s disused leather factory, she was inspired to bring them back to life.

Our account of how the Old Bank

House has been brought out of the red and into the black by one couple’s passion for rescuing unloved property.

32 How does your garden grow?

Reasons to get out in the garden over the next few months.

38 Sugar & spice & all things nice We meet Todd Strehlow to find out about Apple Butter, the spread that is causing such a stir.

48 A Mere suggestion A delightful family walk exploring the Mere and ramparts of Framlingham Castle.

about us

Editorial Kathy Churchill Sales Sarah Clarke info@aboutmedia.co.uk 01728 723138 www.aboutmedia.co.uk

Design Kerry Ferrar kerry@ferrar.co.uk 07884 433385 www.ferrar.co.uk

who’s about out & about about style about you

about interiors

about town about the land

about design about gardens

about food round & about

Photographers Dominic Whiten www.coastalcreativephotography.co.uk Craig Girling www.craiggirling.com Jack Western

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who’s about

who’s about

Golly!

It’s Gosia On the Market Hill in Framlingham you’ll find a distinctive brown van serving coffee, crêpes and waffles.

The Over the Moon Café has a continental feel to it, with an assortment of chairs and tables outside.

Inside you’ll find Gosia.

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It’s unsurprising that Gosia’s van evokes such a continental feel. She is Polish by descent but has lived in this country since the age of 11. “I was born in Germany, but when my dad got a job in the UK we moved from Bavaria to London. It was a complete shock. It was different and difficult. I hated it.” It was 70’s London with its Trades Union disputes, strikes and blackouts. Gosia escaped to university in Cardiff, where she then set up home with her husband Pete.

They made their move to Suffolk when Pete got a job with the Forestry Commission, and have now lived here for the last twenty years. “When I first arrived I just thought it was really flat. I came from Wales with its extraordinary vistas. But now I love it: it’s really special.” Pete is a Natural Historian and now teaches at Writtle Agricultural College. A Zoologist with a Masters in

Ecology, Gosia knew that when she came to Suffolk she was looking for something new.

“I would pass this old van parked in a garden up against the hedge. I just knew I had to have it and made them an offer.

It’s the best thing that ever happened to me.” It is a wartime catering van that once worked the beach in Aldeburgh selling ice-cream, and then went on to be used as a greenhouse. “I’m sure there were some very interesting plants being grown in there, if you know what I mean; after all it was the 60’s!”

The van has been part of the market in Framlingham for 10 years. “I started off selling ice-cream, but soon realised that for three quarters of the year there was no business, so I bought my first waffle iron and coffee machine.” Gosia had never really made waffles before, so spent hours in

the kitchen coming up with her perfect waffle recipe. “I fed my experiments to my hens until I came up with something that we were all happy with.”

Around three quarters of Gosia’s customers are regulars. “I have a pretty good idea of what people will have, but there are always those that you cannot predict. People have a capacity to surprise you when it comes to coffee.” Gosia and her van bring a very modern and European feel to the market.

It’s a place where locals and visitors come together, and your are guaranteed the warmest of welcomes, even on the coldest market day.

The Over the Moon Café is on the Market Hill in Framlingham on Tuesdays and Saturdays.

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out & about

out & about

April

March 1st Folk/Rock duo ‘Silbury Hill’ Sweffling White Horse 8.30pm 2nd Wedding Open Day Bruisyard Hall 6th War Horse LIVE Premiere Aldeburgh Cinema 7pm Booking essential Palm Wine & Stout Eastern Angles touring production starts at Eye Town Hall www.easternangles.co.uk

8th An evening with the Broadside Boys Glemham Hall 7.30 for 8pm start.

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15th Pink and Lady Gaga Tribute Acts Ufford Park 7:30pm for 8pm start.

Phoenix Jazz, Latin & Soul Rendham White Horse 7:30pm 18th Framlingham Neighbourhood Plan United Free Church Framlingham 2.30pm-7.30pm 19th FramSoc A Drug Awareness Evening Headmaster Porter Theatre, Framlingham College 7:30pm 22nd Easton Farm Park Season opens

May

1st-4th FADS production The Ghost Train

by Arnold Riley Framlingham College Theatre 7:30pm

15th Easter Eggstravaganza Foxburrow Farm 10:30am-12:30pm Family event organised

by Suffolk Wildlife Trust

12th-13th Framlingham Country Show and Food & Drink Festival Framlingham College organised by Classic Festivals

16th Youngsters Activity Day High Lodge, Darsham 9:30am-4pm.

Suitable for 10-15 yrs 19th April-18th May Alde Valley Spring Festival Open Tuesdays to Sunday 10am-6pm

20th-21st Siege! Take cover the Normans are attacking!

Framlingham Castle 10am-5pm Organised by English Heritage 25th The ‘Take That’ Experience Jubilee Hall, Aldeburgh 7:30pm. Bookable via The White Lion 26th-27th St George’s Fest The Castle Inn Guest beers, great local food, live music

1st King Lear LIVE Premiere Aldeburgh Cinema 7pm.

Booking essential 3rd-5th Art for Cure Bredfield House www.artforcure.org.uk 4th The Truly Marvellous Wedding & Bottom Drawer Fair Kenton Hall Estate 10am-4pm 4th-5th Knight Tournament Framlingham Castle 10am-5pm Organised by English Heritage

9th Elton John evening White Lion Aldeburgh 7pm 11th May Fair Foxburrow Farm 11am-4pm Organised by the Suffolk Wildlife Trust 19th Morris Dancing by the East Suffolk Morris Men Rendham White Horse 8pm and Sweffling White Horse at 9pm

24th-25th Medieval Murder Mystery Framlingham Castle 10am-5pm Organised by English Heritage 25th Spring Plant Fair Helmingham Hall 10am until 4pm 27th-30th Gruesome Goings On Framlingham Castle 10am-5pm Organised by English Heritage

24th The Broadside Boys Rendham White Horse 7:30pm

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Framlingham Travel Our Knowledge is your Peace of Mind

Whatever your needs, whatever your travel dreams, whatever your budget!

We pride ourselves in providing a first class, knowledgeable and personal service.

To Make your Dreams come true call us now 01728 724836 Email framlinghamtravel@vsmail.co.uk Visit www.framlinghamtravel.com

01728 621 212 The Old Works, Crown & Anchor Lane, Framlingham, IP13 9BL www.fireplaceframlingham.co.uk

GCSE English 3 day course

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Bespoke dining, drinks parties, informal buffets, weddings The home of Peter Harrison’s Seasonal Dinners.

A series of imaginative and stylish dinners using the best local, seasonal ingredients in a fabulous setting.

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Make exams easy with a www.brickkilnbarn.com 07730 313277 01728 660181

Revision Course

explore apply succeed www.eastangliantuition.co.uk FRAM LINGH AM AND IPSW ICH

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2

Handbags & gladrags about style

www.whitestuff.com

I adore handbags…big leather bags, sparkly clutch bags, Queen Elizabeth smart bags.

At the moment I have my eye on a bright yellow patent leather bucket bag; fabulous enough to brighten any grey rainy day.

Bucket bags are the thing for spring, and if you really want to be on track make it brightly coloured or striped or even both!

I relish the whole process of choosing the bag that I will use for my next outing, of moving my essential kit for the day or evening from one bag to the other. The bag I choose always defines my expectations for what lies ahead.

The neat large bag is for the professional me. The oversized bag for the mother in me: large enough to carry games, treats and the odd bit of food shopping.

However, nothing is quite as exciting as the clutch bag; just enough room for make-up, mobile and debit card.

Not even space for a car key.

Definitely party time!

www.barbour.com

www.joules.com

Bags seem to have usurped hats as a style icon, but I don’t think that means we should ignore what hats can do for us. Not only do they protect us from the elements, they can also disguise a bad hair day and at the same time emphasise beautiful eyes, lips and skin. So take time to choose a hat that keeps you and your bag looking calm and collected, whatever the weather throws at you.

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about style

Step into spring With this lovely collection of the latest fashion to be found in Framlingham

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1. Pretty pink cardigan

by Karen Cole Darcy B £99 2. Lovely floral skirt

by Marilyn Moore Darcy B £139 3. Superdry jeans Bootiki from £49.99 Stockists on page 47

Geri Clarke 8

www.radley.co.uk

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ruby tyger lifestyles & accessories

about style . Quality drawers 4

by Joules £29.95 (pack of three) Does of Framlingham

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5. Floaty silk top £35 & printed scarf £12 Ruby Tyger 6. Brown ladies brogues

by J Shoes Bootiki £60

7. Collection of silver rings Sarah Cole Jewellery Studio Prices from £15

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. Funky spotted wellies 8

by Joules Does of Framlingham £39.95 9. Ladies Le Chameau wellingtons Trulock & Harris £85

10.Gorgeous purple Yoshi Satchel Ruby Tyger £59

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No 1 The Mews, Market Hill, Framlingham Tel: 01728 724470 www.rubytyger.co.uk 10

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Heaven scent Discover the delicately perfumed scents created by Roger&Gallet through its gorgeous collection of perfumes, essential oils, shower gels and body lotions.

about you

The Retreat Beauty Salon in Framlingham have got a special offer for all aboutfram readers.

Simply cut out this voucher and present it at reception on arrival of your appointment.

AGE Smart Dermalogica Kit £42.50

Available from Framlingham Pharmacy, prices from £9

Receive 20% off any treatment for the month of April.

A little self indulgence

One voucher per customer.

Valid until 31st March 2014.

The Retreat is offering a brilliant range of Dermalogica facials, specifically targeted at different skin types from teenagers upwards.

Gift Vouchers available for Mothers’ Day 12-14, Well Close Square, Framlingham 01728 723 445

Prices start from £21.50 for a 30min treatment.

me time!

A helping hand

Hidden Treasure... ...For all to enjoy

L’Occitane’s rich and creamy hand cream is just the thing for soothing and restoring dry winter hands. Available from Framlingham Pharmacy £19

UFFORD PARK WOODBRIDGE

Treat your nails to a burst of spring colour with this lovely new Brazil Collection from OPI. Available from The Retreat £13.50

Give dry hair new life

Selection of Aveda Dry Remedy products Prices from £17.50

Stockists on page 47 12

Banish dull winter hair by treating yourself to a botanical therapy moisture treatment from Carley Hill Hair for just £15.

Whilst you are there, take time to browse the fabulous Aveda skincare and bodycare range and experiment with the beautiful eye colour palettes and succulent lip colours.

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK NON MEMBERS WELCOME Aveda petal essence eye definer £14 Aveda nourish mint lip definer £14.50

Hotel | Golf | Spa Food served all day Function rooms available t 0844 499 1632 w www. uf for dpark.co.uk 13

about interiors

about interiors

Making a statement As you enter the welcoming light-filled kitchen of the Old Bank House, it is hard to imagine that this impressive building had stood empty and unloved for five years, slowly rotting as the rain dripped through holes in the roof...

But now, thanks to the combined vision and craftsmanship of Steve Hulbert and Mandi Pope, no strangers to rescuing properties looking for another chance, it has been restored to a beautiful and elegant home. In the kitchen, Plain English units run the length of the wall where the bank’s serving counters once stood, and the original shelves that bowed under the weight of important files and documents, now show off a nostalgic collection of vintage finds and mismatched crockery.

In the corner, a narrow door leads through to an arched passageway, once the safe room that has been opened up and now provides access to the secluded garden at the rear. Assorted antique and junk shop chairs sit comfortably around a large kitchen table and in a wooden crate a mass of hyacinths give off a lovely perfumed

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scent. This is a room for lazy Saturday mornings over coffee and pastries from the bakery next door and long extended Sunday lunches with family and friends.

Dating back to the late 18th Century, it is a house that befits the words parlour, morning room and scullery, and as we wander through the rooms, you half expect to come across a bonneted lady sewing in a chair by the window, thimble in hand, or a maid scrubbing the steps to the courtyard.

Mandi has an easy and instinctive style, using lovely soft neutral tones on the walls and floors to provide the perfect backdrop to her eclectic assortment of pretty painted furniture, deep sofas and faded linens.

Always on the lookout for interesting items, Mandi loves to roam the local antique shops and auctions, and has a passion for vintage fabrics. Hidden off the main hallway she 15

about interiors

shows me her crafting room, where bundles of mangle cloths, embroidered cottons and floral prints are waiting to be re-invented as curtains or cushion covers, with perhaps a pompom or tassel for adornment.

Upstairs the six beautifully proportioned bedrooms have all been given the same simple makeover. There are some lovely touches; a tailor’s dummy draped with scarves and strings of beads, an antique rocking horse warming itself by the fireplace, a single wall brought to life by the clever use of striking prints. Even the usual teenage clutter seems perfectly acceptable when scattered across a gorgeous French dressing table.

Having spent just over a year totally refurbishing the house, Steve and Mandi already have their eye on a new project, 16

and the ‘Old Bank House’ is up for sale.

It is wonderful to see this Grade II listed property restored and rejuvenated, and now ready to enter the next chapter of its life.

For more details visit www.muskermcintyre.co.uk

Sourcebook Builder Steve Hulbert Renovations T 07900 450301 Antiques Dix-Sept www.dixsept.co.uk T 01728 621505 In da Cottage www.indacottage.co.uk T 01728 664095

Interiors Esme’s House Framlingham T 01728 724224 Seamstress Georgina at Practically Perfect in Eye www.practically perfectinteriors.com T 07875 263047 Favourite hunting grounds Campsea Ashe and Diss auction rooms

TWO PEAS PAINTED FURNITURE & INTERIOR STYLING

JESSICA CATTERMOLE 07540580043 TWO PEAS 3 COLLEGE ROAD, FRAMLINGHAM IP13 9EU

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about interiors

about interiors

6 1.Vintage oil can Carley’s Yard £22 2.Vintage birdcage Carley’s Yard £45 3. Farrow & Ball paints Esme’s House From £20 for 750ml

6. Painted furniture and linens Two Peas 7. Collection of Susie Cooper crockery Similar from Theatre Antiques 8. Striped cushion Esme’s House £68 9. French style mirror Similar from Dix-Sept Antiques

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7

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Stockists on page 47

4. Retro metal sign In da Cottage Similar from £35 5. Coloured shot glasses 21 At The Theatre Similar from £22

8 9

5

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Building on an award-winning reputation Robert Norman's innovative build project, Long Farm near Reydon, has won them an impressive array of regional and national accolades, including the Grand Designs House of the Year, a prestigious national Brick Award, and two trophies in the Suffolk Property Awards, including the overall Winner of Winners title.

about town

Exciting news!

Framlingham Vets is relocating to brand new premises on Station Road this July.

Watch this space.

Good news as momentum finally builds in the local construction market.

www.robertnormanltd.co.uk

Your Town.

Your Plan.

Your Future.

E in ntr vi ie te s d

Public Meeting Tuesday 18th March Drop in from: 2.30PM - 7.30PM The United Free Church Hall Riverside, Framlingham

Upcoming auctions...

Come and join us for two special collective sales.

As Architects and Surveyors, this year has brought enquiries from a wide range of clients for both commercial and residential projects, from homeowners wanting to add small extensions, to larger housing and commercial schemes.

A new experience in estate agency but with old-fashioned values and a passion for property.

Entries are now invited for Clarke & Simpson’s two specialist up-coming sales at their sale room at Campsea Ashe.

Domestic & Rural Bygones & Collectables 12th April 2014 Machinery 24th May 2014

Domestic & Rural Bygones & Collectables 12th April 2014

Machinery 24th May 2014

Clarke & Simpson Auction Centre, Campsea Ashe, Nr Wickham Market, Suffolk IP13 0PS

t: 01728 621200 www.clarkeandsimpson.co.uk

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about about interiors town

If you have an item, however large or small, that you would like to submit for auction, contact one of their team, now nearly 50 strong!

www.clarkeandsimpson.co.uk

Pop into our office on the Market Hill for your copy of the latest property newsletter. www.huntingfieldestates.co.uk

We have a number of live projects for Suffolk based clients who are looking for new manufacturing business space. These sure signs of expansion mean good news for the local economy, and are an indication that an economic recovery of some sorts is underway, and finally outside of London!

James Tanner, Hollins Architects Tel: 01728 723959 www.hollins.co.uk

150 years on, Framlingham College continues to strive for perfection with its new Sixth Form Resource Centre.

Due to open in September 2014, the build is now well under way and will make a valuable addition to the life of sixth formers at the school. www.framcollege.co.uk

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archway carpets Johnathon Girling, owner of CPW locksmiths, is resident in Framlingham and, as a master locksmith with over 35 years’ experience, is able to provide the following services for both domestic and commercial premises.

Excellent customer service & product knowledge Family owned & operated for over 30 years

• Supply and installation of Digital Locks and Access Control Systems • Sale, servicing and installation of both new & used safes • Key-cutting facilities

Our shop in Ipswich has the largest selection of different locks in this area, enabling us to provide them for all wooden and PVC doors and windows.

So, if you want a local locksmith who cuts the mustard, call us or pop in to our Ipswich shop today.

C.P.W Locksmiths, 1, Rope Walk, Ipswich, Suffolk IP4 1NA

In-home selection service & FREE estimates Flooring options for homes & businesses

7 Church Street, Woodbridge, Suffolk 01394 386684 / 07770 378703

@ArchwayCarpets sales@archwaycarpets.co.uk

Jack of all trades - full stop Chartered Surveyors & Estate Agents For all your property needs Chartered Surveyors Residential Sales & Lettings Development, Commercial Sales & Lettings Fine Art & Chattels Land Agency & Professional Consultancy Estate Management Property & Machinery Auctions Architectural Services

Shop Tel: 01473 213343 | Local Tel: 01728 724158 Mob Tel: 07809 534999 | www.cpwlocksmiths.co.uk

The

Kitchen Range aannddc c oo ok oskhsohpo p

The Country Store with so much more Country clothing Workwear Garden machinery

Get Ready for Summer!

New stocks of Weber Barbecues just in.... and Loads of Accessories

Aga Rayburn Agents - Esse Agents Boiler Servicing/Replacement - General Plumbing Quality Cookware for All Appliances ...and lots, lots more!

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3 Well Close Square Framlingham 01728 723757 or 723909 w: www.krcookshop.com e: chris@krcookshop.com

Where you can buy with confidence Ernest Doe Power, Broadwater Road, Framlingham, Woodbridge IP13 9LL 01728 723963 framlingham@ernestdoe.com Follow us on Facebook Ernest Doe Power – Framlingham

www.ernestdoepower.com

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about the land

about the land

There is a farm in Brandeston Perched on the side of a hill between the villages of Brandeston and Cretingham, Bridge Farm affords fabulous views across the water meadows of the River Deben, a scene that has not changed for centuries.

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The Western family have farmed here since 1940, and Steve, who now runs the farm with his wife Sally, grew up here. “My father Jack farmed here for fifty years. Back then it was a traditional smallholding, with a mixture of arable and pasture land and a small milking herd.” Although the milking parlours are long gone, changes are afoot at Bridge Farm, and they now rear Herdwick sheep, free range chickens, and Saddleback pigs, selling the meat locally and supplying various pubs and restaurants.

Theirs has not been the conventional route to farmer and farmer’s wife. Steve had a long and wide ranging career as a meteorologist, working out in Antarctica with the British Antarctic Survey, followed by twelve years in the Middle East. Sally trained as a nurse, and after specialising in accident and emergency, spent many years working at different hospitals in the UK and also abroad. She has only recently retired to look after the husbandry at the farm.

As we sit in the cosy farmhouse kitchen waiting for the kettle to boil, Sally explains how they are in the process of building up their flock of Lakeland Herdwick Sheep.

Beloved by Beatrix Potter, these tough little sheep, with their pretty cream faces and distinctive thick grey fleeces, are known as the ‘Gardeners of the Lakes’, and it is

quite common for them to spend all year roaming the fells, only returning to the lowlands for lambing. “Here at Bridge Farm they are reared with as little interference from us as possible, and the lambs are kept on until they are about 16 months, giving the meat a delicious fullness of flavour.”

After pulling on a pair of borrowed wellies from a huge pile that lay discarded by the backdoor, we head out to see the pigs, accompanied by their three excitable cocker spaniels who have spent the last twenty minutes desperately vying for my affection! I have a bit of a soft spot for pigs, so can’t wait to meet these Saddleback crosses, especially the latest piglets which are still under lamps in the stable. What an assortment! Ginger with black spots, black with white bands, white with black spots; all adorable. Meanwhile Fatima and 25

Charnwood Milling Co Ltd

about the land

her friends, the breeding sows, are having a lovely wallow in the paddock and it is great to see them rooting in the mud and enjoying the late autumn sunshine.“The pigs are completely free-range. We allow them to mature slowly so that the pork is tender and juicy, and the crackling is just fantastic!”

Visit the Cool Room Starting in April, Steve and Sally will be opening the Cool Room at Bridge Farm.

On the second weekend of the month, customers will be able to come and buy their pork, chicken and mutton straight from the freezer.

Sat 12th & Sun 13th April: 9am until 12 midday If you would like to purchase meat from Bridge Farm, details can be found on their website www.bridgefarmbrandeston.co.uk or call on 01728 685320.

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Earl Soham

“Where every paw is important” Earl Soham Veterinary Centre, Earl Soham Business Centre, Woodbridge, Suffolk, IP13 7SA Call 01728 685 185 Mon - Fri 8.45am - 6pm. Sat 9.00am - 12.00noon

www.earlsohamvets.com

Feeds for all animals From alpacas to zebras!

Saxtead Rd, Framlingham IP13 9PT T 01728 622300 E feeds@charnwood-milling.co.uk www.charnwoodmilling.co.uk

@EarlVets

@FramVet

Framlingham Veterinary Centre, New Road, Framlingham, Suffolk, IP13 9AT Call 01728 621 666 Mon - Thurs 9.00am - 6.00pm Fri 9.00am - 5.30pm. Sat 9.00am - 11.00am

FramVETS is relocating to Station road soon!

As we head back to the house I spy a band of chickens trouping along the path that leads to the garden. Ever inquisitive, they have come to see what all the fuss is about.

Sally shows me the sheds where they roost at night, and talks me through the process.

Again, there is an emphasis on their quality of life, and a passion for rearing the animals slowly, a return to more old-fashioned farming practices that may cost more in terms of production, but pays dividends when it comes to the flavour of the meat.

With sausages and bacon for my Saturday breakfast safely stowed on the passenger seat, I can’t resist a final question.

“So, what’s the weather going to be like this weekend Steve?”

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about design

Unzipping the past

about about interiors design

It’s one thing to follow in your father’s footsteps, but to follow in your great, great grandfather’s is a daunting task, one that brings with it an enormous sense of responsibility and heritage. Deborah Thomas explains why she has chosen to tread this particular path.

“Ever since I can remember, the leather business has been part of our family life.

As a child I would often visit the factory with my father, and later on I had holiday jobs helping out. To me it was a glamorous world, especially as I managed to work at the export offices in both New York and Cape Town. They felt a million miles away from the factory in Northampton.”

The company, W.Pearce & Co, was founded in 1908 by Deborah’s great, great grandfather, Charles Pearce. Back then it was just a small workshop in the middle of town producing leather linings for hats

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and shoes, but after the war, as the export market developed, the company expanded.

They built a new factory in 1939, and it was here that the company started to specialise in embossing prints such as snake, crocodile, lizard and elephant onto quality hides. At its height the factory employed well over a hundred skilled workers, and held the largest collection of embossing plates in the world.

Sadly however, with the rise of cheap imports and the birth of a new throw-away society, quality no longer mattered, and in 2002 the factory was forced to close.

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ferrar design.

about design

Designers of the Doe Leather brand and aboutfram magazine.

Beautiful brand and print design. www.ferrar.co.uk kerry@ferrar.co.uk 07884 433385

It was whilst Deborah and her father were taking a last tour of the factory, reminiscing as they wandered through the warehouse, and half expecting the Bakelite phone to ring with the next order, that they discovered a set of sample books.

Beautifully preserved, these books are a unique record of the embossing effects that had made Pearce’s such innovators in their field. It was an exciting find, and flicking through the leather swatches, with their depth of texture and wonderful range of colours, Deborah found inspiration. Here was part of her heritage, a testament to a bygone era when quality and expertise were valued, and she knew she couldn’t let the family story end there.

So in 2013 Deborah founded Doe Leather and, with the help of her father, teamed up with a British, family-run leather workshop in Walsall to start producing a small range 30

of contemporary leather goods. Made out of luxurious hand waxed bridle hide, her designs are simple, sleek and elegant and each item comes with a unique limited edition leather zip pull that has been crafted from one of the old embossed leather swatches. These are a delightful reminder of her legacy and add a lovely flash of colour to her designs. As I watch Deborah at work in her Suffolk studio, hand stitching a new range of luggage tags and talking with passion about the future of traditional crafts, I truly believe that this is story with many more chapters to come, and one that her great, great grandfather would have been proud of.

Doe Leather is currently on display at The New Craftsmen, Mayfair, London W1, Museum of Leathercraft, Northampton,Waremakers www.waremakers.com, In da Cottage, Framlingham or available via the website, www.doeleather.co.uk 31

about gardens

about gardens

How does your garden grow?

As life begins to surge back into our gardens, some of the season’s prettiest plants come into blossom and we are treated once again to scent-filled evenings.

In the borders tulips jostle for position with self-seeded granny’s bonnets and white-flowered honesty and, beneath the dogwood, swathes of forget-me-nots and grape hyacinths create a carpet of blue.

Some of the loveliest displays at this time of year are lilacs, a quintessential must-have for any cottage garden.

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With their delicate blooms, comprised of star-like florets in creamy whites and deeply rich purples, they are a symbol of youthful innocence.

With such an abundance of colour, why not take inspiration from nature, and create a wonderful centrepiece for an Easter gathering? Snip branches of frothy blossom for a fresh, country look, gather tulips, bluebells and ranunculus for a splash of colour, or pick a single stem of lilac; a simple statement that will fill a whole room with its heady perfume.

Or, if you are looking for a masterclass, Kim Beedie of Figa & Co runs the most fantastic floral design courses from her home in Laxfield, where you can learn to create an Easter wreath, complete with egg shells, feathers and orchids.

For more details visit www.figandco.co.uk 33

A collection of vintage inspired garden work clothing, including smocks and dungarees, practical gardening aprons for men and women, and potting coats and jackets, all made in Suffolk.

MY GENERATION

about gardens

Looking after the precious things in life

Getting to the grassroots Now we are entering spring, it is time to start looking after your lawn.

As the weather warms up and the grass starts to grow, it will require feeding, moss-killing and regular mowing to ensure the best results. You may also have sparse patches where you have walked a path, so now is a good time to re-sow the bare spots.

Set the lawnmower to its highest setting for your first mowing. Gradually reduce and aim to cut the grass once a week, preferably late in the day when it has had the chance to dry out.

Tales from the potting shed 34

Wet weather and waterlogged conditions are ideal for moss, so make sure you get on top of the problem early. There are two main methods for beating moss: Scarification Removing the moss by vigorous raking with a spring-tine rake, or for larger lawns it is recommended you hire a mechanical scarifier.

Chemical control Careful application of a ferrous sulphate based moss killer to spot treat the badly affected areas.

This will take 2-3 weeks to kill off the moss, which can then be removed with raking.

There are plenty of different brands to choose from, so please check the pack for detailed instructions.

March

April

May

Re-pot potted plants Divide perennials; Plant summer flowering bulbs; Prune roses, late-flowering shrubs, lavender and clematis; Cut back ivy that has started to invade wooden windows or guttering.

Remove dead flowers from spring flowering bulbs; Get weeding; Stake and tie young trees, shrubs and roses; Fertilize your roses; Add compost or a good mulch to your borders.

Tidy up early flowering clematis; Keep weeding; Support tall perennials such as foxgloves, delphiniums and hollyhocks; Check for slugs and snails and remove; Harden off young plants by moving them outside on warmer days.

My Generation is a personalised investment and estate planning service, specifically tailored to meet the needs of those nearing or already retired from working life. For those considering the advantages of an experienced wealth manager, we will cater for all your personal investment needs over the long term.

Plus plenty of gift ideas, such as hand turned oak dibbers, children's gardening boxes and bird-scarer bunting.

www.pinksandgreens.co.uk

Persell Ewart & Co Financial Management Senior Partner Practice of St. James’s Place Wealth Management

Suffolk House, 12 Market Place, Saxmundham, Suffolk, IP17 1AG

Tel: 01728 605991 Email: peter.ewart@sjpp.co.uk Web: www.persellewart.co.uk

The Partner Practice represents only St. James’s Place Wealth Management plc (which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority) for the purpose of advising solely on the Group’s wealth management products and services, more details of which are set out on the Group’s website www.sjp.co.uk/products.

The title `Partner Practice’ is the marketing term used to describe St. James’s Place representatives.

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!

N I W

T ES A ON’S C A 4 PL ARRIS ERS N H N ER DIN PET ONAL N BAR S IL SEA RICK K B RTH AT WO

2

A beautiful place where great things happen

£17

FlowerFarm Suffolk Seasons

flower farmers & florists

A unique, individual local service growing and selling a large range of traditional British cut flowers grown on our Suffolk farm, as well as offering a full floristry service.

we sow, grow, provide and create!

visit our website to see all our cut flower and floristry services!

www.suffolkseasonsflowerfarm.co.uk For enquiries please contact

Elizabeth Mobbs and Alison Pinn 01986 798911 or 07970 626193

email-suffolkseasons@btinternet.com

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Cantley Farm, The Street, Cratfield, Halesworth, Suffolk. IP19 0BT

Borrowing from the urban idea of a Pop Up restaurant, Brick Kiln Barn, Sibton, in partnership with chef Peter Harrison, offers a monthly Seasonal Dinner where a set menu comprises the best local and seasonal ingredients.

For your chance of winning 4 places at one of ten Seasonal Dinners during 2014, answer the following question:

The Dinners comprise 4 delicious canapés served with Ca Morlin Prosecco Superiore, followed by a 3 course set menu and coffee. Previous menus have included local, seasonal delights such as;

What is the name of the fizz served with the 4 delicious canapés?

Maple Farm egg yolk ravioli with Suffolk asparagus and hollandaise sauce

Send your answer to prize@aboutfram.com

Slow Roast Alde Valley mutton with wild garlic

The competition closes at 23.59 on Friday 25 April 2014.

New season rhubarb, custard and ginger fool Eton mess For further information see www.brickkilnbarn.com

For your chance of winning

Terms and conditions aboutfram will automatically add your email address to its own database for marketing purposes. Your email address will not be shared with any other companies apart from Brick Kiln Barn. Please indicate in your email if you do not wish to be contacted by either aboutfram or Brick Kiln Barn and we will delete your email address from our records.

37

about food

Sugar and spice and all things nice What is delicious spread on pancakes, perfect for stirring through porridge with a thick dollop of Greek yoghurt, and just great with roast pork and all the trimmings?

Apple Butter of course!

38

about food

Todd Strehlow, an upstate New Yorker who was literally weaned on this thick apple sauce, had been smuggling jars of it back to the UK ever since moving here.

So, when in 2007 he ended up as the proud owner of some apple orchards in Suffolk, it seemed perfectly reasonable to dig out Grandma’s recipe book and start making his own!

Curious to know more about the interesting sauce that is causing such a stir, I headed over to meet Todd at his farm in Wilby Green. Before I had even parked the car, the smell of crushed apples drifted in through the open window, taking me back to my summers working at Brandeston Vineyard, where we used to produce 2 litre bottles of cider, a heady concoction that was not for the faint-hearted. Todd is in the process of pressing the apples, a vital

step in the production of apple butter, as the juice is one of the main ingredients.

He also bottles and sells the apple juice, made the authentic ‘American way’ with no vitamin C added, so it is a lovely mellow colour and has a subtle sweetness.

As we wander along the neat rows of apples trees, Todd talks me through the different varieties that he grows, “The main crop that we use in the apple butter are Bramley, your good old-fashioned cooker, and Egremont Russet, which has a rich nutty flavour and is full of sweetness.

I have also planted a few rows of traditional cider apples as I quite fancy having a go at making a traditional still cider.”At just over a year, these young trees will not mature for another four years, so as with any farmer, patience is a virtue. It is a beautiful spot and although we are already 39

THORPENESS

HOTEL EVENTS

about food

NATIONAL PIE WEEK 3RD - 9TH MARCH

Pie lovers everywhere – join us as we celebrate the Great British classic that is the much loved pie!

As part of the Great British Pie Week, our chefs will be creating a selection of delectable pies.

The pies will be served in the Club House from March 3rd – 9th

EXCLUSIVE TO THORPENESS

ULTIMATE MADNESS 7TH MARCH 2014, 8PM

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into late November, there is some strength in the sun, and, as Todd inspects one of his trees, I allow myself to dream of an oldfashioned picking afternoon, where women and children all joined in the fun and there would have been a sense of collective satisfaction as the last apple was picked.

As Todd checks on his next batch that is slowly caramelising in the oven, I flick through a battered recipe book and discover American treats such as Apple Custard Pie, Apple and Green Tomato Pie and Honey Apple Cake, and wonder if this is standard fayre in the Strehlow household.

Back to reality and back in Todd’s warm farmhouse kitchen, I have a treat in store, as lined up on the breakfast bar is an assortment of his different apple butters.

The lids come off and we enjoy Original, a thick apple puree that is smooth and sweet, Extra Brown, dark and sticky from adding extra brown sugar, and then my favourite, Warm Spice; with its hints of cinnamon and cloves it is Christmas in a jar! We also work our way through Apple and Beetroot Butter, fabulous with cheese, and finally a Quince Butter, wonderfully aromatic and just perfect for cold meats.

As I leave with a jar in my pocket, I can’t wait to try it out at home, but it ends up as the secret ingredient in the mulled cider for the aboutfram Christmas party – an inspired choice we think!

To spread a little happiness in your life visit www.applebuttercompany.co.uk Stockists Leo’s Deli Framlingham

Lawson’s Delicatessen Aldeburgh

John Hutton Butchers Earl Soham

Alder Carr Farm Shop Needham market

£20 per person* Deposits required Please call 01728 452176 to book!

SAVE THE DATE Come & experience the magic, the twinkling lights and the vaulted ceilings at this wonderfully impressive venue at our Wedding Open Day. Talk to one of our experienced wedding planners to share your dreams and plans for your big day.

11am-4pm Free Entry Arrival Drink & Goody Bag *Subject to availability

BOOK NOW FOR MOTHER’S DAY LUNCH MARKET HILL FRAMLINGHAM SUFFOLK IP13 9AP

01728 723521 www.framlinghamcrown.co.uk

To book call our events team on 01728 452176 or email events@thorpeness.co.uk Thorpeness Golf Club & Hotel, Thorpeness, Aldeburgh, Suffolk IP16 4NH thorpeness

@thorpenesscouk

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T HE S TATION H OTEL WOOD - FIRED PIZZAS AT

G REAT F OOD G REAT B EER G REAT A TMOSPHERE

The Dennington Queen

T HE S TATION H OTEL

Thursday and Friday 5pm until late Saturday 1pm until late

T: 01728 727167 www.thestationframlingham.com

Whether you like your steak blue or cooked right through

T: 01728 723455

Whether a week day meet or weekend feast

www.thestationframlingham.com

Common Room Café

**New Event** In Celebration of Spanish Food & Wine Thursday 27th March Booking Essential

INDULGE IN OUR CAREFULLY CRAFTED MENU ALWAYS REFINED BUT NEVER PRETENTIOUS Set Lunch: 2 courses £13.25, 3 Courses £16.25 Lite Lunches, A La Carte, Sunday Lunch

Quality Coffees, Teas, Breakfasts, Cakes Snacks, Lunches, Sandwiches Sunday Roast Available for private parties Free Wi-Fi & Fully Licensed Opening Times

42

Any meal at The Dennington Queen Is a Rare Treat!

Monday - Saturday: 8am - 5pm Sunday: 9am - 4pm 22 Bridge Street Framlingham | T: 01728 768238 www.thecommonroomfram.com

Open 7 days a week 12-2pm & 6.30-9pm T 01728 638241 E info@thedenningtonqueen.co.uk www.thedenningtonqueen.co.uk 43

DJ Wines About Fram Advert 73 x 44_Layout 1 13/02/2014 12:22

IMPULSE...

Boutique Ladies Fashion on the Market Hill

INCLUDING

SLOE GIN WHISKY | MEAD BRANDY

Fruit Wines & Liqueurs HA ND MA D E I N M ON K SOHA M

Open:Tues-Sat 10am - 4.30pm

SHO P O N LIN E www .d j-wi ne s.c om

Tel: 01728 724969

Fram Veg Shop

Peter Hall Flooring

With a great selection of delicious local fruit & veg from the Heritage Coast and beyond at low prices, why would you want to shop anywhere else?

A Name you can Trust

Established 1959 and providing a first-class fitting service to clients in East Suffolk Come and visit us for a wide range of carpets, vinyls & more to suit every taste & budget

Tickle your Tastebuds Today

34 High St, Wickham Market, IP13 0QS www.peterhallflooring.com | 01728 746416

Fram DIY Fram DIY & Building Supplies Ltd Everything for DIY & Trade Open 6 days per week Free Delivery

Tel 01728 723505 | Fax 01728 724022 Station Rd, Framlingham IP13 9EA

Planet C r a f t

Open Mon-Sat 8:30am-5pm (Wed early closing at 1:30pm)

14 Bridge Street, Framlingham Tel: 01728 727425

Framlingham Accountancy Services Ltd • AAT licensed

• Over 12 years experience as small business specialist • Self-assessment, Limited Companies, Partnerships, Start-up advice and related issues • Have your paperwork collected and returned • Tax returns free as part of accounts service

To arrange visit call free on 0800 7314547 Or visit www.framaccounts.co.uk

REBECCA COWLEY M.A.O Member of the association of osteomyologists Member of the Body Control Pilates Association

The Unique Home Boutique

Tim Cazalet T: 01728 663771 E: tim@planet-craft.com W: www.planet-craft.com

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Ha ll F a r m B u t c h e rs 25 Market Hill, Framlingham Tel: 01728 727422 Suppliers of locally sourced quality Meat, Poultry & Game. Homemade Sausages, Burgers & Pies, Free range chicken & Eggs www.hallfarmbutchers.co.uk e:sales@hallfarmbutchers.co.uk

Callendar’s Florist

Flowers

for all occasions 7 Bridge Street, Framlingham. IP13 9AJ T: 01728 723764 www.framlinghamflorist.co.uk

What happens if you don’t advertise?

NOTHING! 20 years experience treating back pain including sciatica, S.I. joint issues, pelvic misalignment, neck pain & headaches, through gentle manipulation.

Exercise programme and sports massage also available.

www.backcarepilates.net | T: 01728 621051

Call us today on 01728 723138 for our media pack

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Stockists

Is your diary as empty as this page?

about style

about interiors

Bootiki 4b Market Hill Framlingham. IP13 9AB T: 01728 727481 www.bootikiboutique.co.uk Darcy B Hill House, 13 Market Hill Framlingham. IP13 9AN T: 01728 720052 www.darcy-b.com Ruby Tyger No 1 The Mews, Market Hill Framlingham. IP13 9AN T: 01728 724470 www.rubytyger.co.uk The Jewellery Studio

by Sarah Cole No 2 The Mews, Market Hill Framlingham. IP13 9AN T: 01728 723353 www.sarahcole jewellery.co.uk Ernest Doe of Framlingham Broadwater Road Framlingham. IP13 9LL T: 01728 723963 www.ernestdoe.com Trulock & Harris Ore Trading Estate Woodbridge Road Framlingham. IP13 9LL T: 01728 724776 www.trulockandharris.com

Carley’s Yard 25 Fore Street Framlingham. IP13 9DY T: 01728 724427 www.carleysyard.co.uk 21 At The Theatre Theatre Antiques 10 Church Street Framlingham. IP13 9BH T: 07908 639179 In da Cottage The Old Fire Station Crown and Anchor Lane Framlingham.

T: 01728 664095 www.indacottage.co.uk Theatre Antiques Theatre Antiques 10 Church Street Framlingham. IP13 9BH T: 01728 621069 www.theatreantiques. wordpress.com Dix-Sept Antiques 17 Station Road Framlingham. IP13 9EA T: 01728 621505 www.dixsept.co.uk Esme’s House Bridge Street Framlingham. IP13 9AJ T: 01728 724224 Two Peas 3 College Road Framlingham. IP13 9EJ T: 07540 580043

about you

If so, subscribe to aboutfram today and let our enews fill your week with exciting things to do and places to go www.aboutfram.com

46

Carley Hill Hair 29 Market Hill Framlingham. IP13 9AN T: 01728 621068 www.carleyhill.co.uk Framlingham Pharmacy 32 Market Hill Framlingham. IP13 9AY T: 01728 723477 www.cooperspharmacy framlingham.co.uk The Retreat 12-14 Well Close Square Framlingham. IP13 9DU T: 01728 723445 www.theretreatfram.co.uk

RAISING MONEY FOR

Breakthrough for Breast Cancer An exciting collection of paintings, prints and garden sculpture.

Bredfield House, Woodbridge May 3rd-5th Private view party on Friday 2nd May 6pm-9pm (tickets £25) www.artforcure.org.uk 47

retrieving a lost welly we realise we have to ignore the bridge to the right, and go through the stile that opens onto one of the college’s playing fields.

round & about

A Mere suggestion Brunch! Now there’s a word to put a smile on your face.

Especially if it’s a Sunday and you are sitting in The Station, Framlingham, the starting point for our family walk. Whilst the kids work their way through a plate of hot sausage rolls and several boxes of trivial pursuit questions, we enjoy devilled kidneys on toast, the creamiest kedgeree, a melting brie and bacon sarnie and a couple of full english breakfasts. And, because it’s a Sunday, there is also the obligatory pint or two, a rather cheeky winter Pimms, and a bloody mary with all the trimmings.

48

Replete, we gather children and dogs and head off to the Elms car park on New Road, where a small wooden gate leads you into the Suffolk Wildlife Trust reserve. It is a beautiful day with clear blue skies, and as we slip and squelch our way around the edge of the Mere, the sun catches the castle ramparts; an impressive backdrop for this circular walk. The path winds over a little stream, under a fallen bow, and through a passage in the hedgerow before emerging onto a grassy bank. The kids all charge off in the wrong direction, mud splattering their jeans, and after

The footpath takes you along the back of the pitch, and we all do a hop, skip and a jump as we discover the athletics sandpit. Meanwhile a stream that flows into the Mere proves irresistible to the dogs, but at least it washes off some of the mud!

In the far corner we turn right along the lane, and after a few hundred yards cross a footbridge to the right.

At the brow of the hill the castle comes back into view, silhouetted on the skyline, and after shouts of “Follow the sticks!” we traipse across an open field and drop down into the grounds of the castle.

It is great to watch the children race up and down the steep slopes at the foot of the castle walls, definitely a spectator sport we decide.

Then it is time to wander back into town and steal a few moments in the sun while the children buy ice-creams. We all agree this is the perfect Sunday walk, only 2½ miles round, which is just long enough to walk off brunch and put some colour in our cheeks.

If you have a favourite family walk that you would like to share, please email us on info@aboutmedia.co.uk

FREE EVENT: Find the care and support you need in Suffolk • Free, informative event • Particular focus on stroke care • Expert speakers explore; - stroke awareness - power of attorney - caring for stroke sufferers - the mobility options available

Christies Care is CQC registered and has been providing high quality live-in carers across the UK since 1987.

BOOK YOUR PLACE NOW D: 01728 605013 M: 07919 188549 E: lin.barnes@christiescare.com

www.christiescare.com

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BRANDESTON HALL framlingham college prep school (2½-13)

A flexible, local alternative with the finest facilities

OPEN MORNINGS

Friday 28th February & Saturday 1st March Email: admissions@brandestonhall.co.uk or book online at:

brandestonhall.co.uk

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/framcollege

@brandestonhall