Free Publication
Spring/Summer 2021
A magazine for Jimmy’s Farm & Wildlife Park
EXCLUSIVE CELEBRITY INTERVIEW
le Kate Humb
LET’S GO WILD!
SPECIES
S.O.S
How you can help save animals and insects under threat
Time to get outside, breathe in nature and explore
Baby Boom
Meet Suffolk’s first baby tapir and all the new arrivals
The Good Life Cover Summer 2021.indd 1
27/05/2021 22:17
12th highest performing prep school in England Sunday Times Parent Power listing 2020
Arrange a visit to find out more about St Mary’s Kindergarten and Lower School www.stmaryscolchester.org.uk Ads.indd 2
27/05/2021 21:52
S p ri ng & Su m m e r I s s u e
Welcome
It seems so long since we last caught up and we shared with you all the goings-on of the farm and wildlife park! Even though we were closed from Boxing Day to 12th April, rest assured it was a far from quiet time for our team. You may have seen our two beautiful zebra already: Zippy and Zoom. Along with our Barbary macaques, they represent the future for me and an exciting time for Jimmy’s Farm & Wildlife Park. Spring has brought chicks, lambs, goat kids and even a baby tapir, Tobias, who is Suffolk’s FIRST baby tapir. We have had a successful lambing season this year with our rare breeds and even welcomed two sets of triplets. We all worked so hard to get the park looking its best for your arrival and welcomed lots of new staff members to help you have the best day when visiting us. I’ve never been more proud of my staff ! After a tough year, we’ve all come together and got the job done.
@jimmysfarmmag @jimmysfarm @jimmysfarmmag @jimmysfarmhq follow Jimmy too: @jimmysfarm @jimmysfarmmag @jimmysfarmhq @jimmys_farm_weddings
Hopefully, the warm weather will bring with it more positive times. The team and I can’t wait to meet visitors old and new as we move into summer.
Jimmy 03
Jimmy's Farm Welcome Summer 2021.indd 3
www.jimmysfarm.com
27/05/2021 20:42
Ads.indd 20
10/12/2020 01:21
S p ri ng & Su m m e r I s s u e
14
Contents 06 Shopping
40 Healing Trees
10 Baby Love
44 Help your Local Children’s Department
Indulge in some retail therapy at the fabulous shops here at Jimmy’s Farm & Wildlife Park. Jimmy’s Farm & Wildlife Park is bigger and better than ever – meet the new arrivals!
10
46 Zoo-per Heroes
20 Discover our Native Dragons
50 What’s Cooking?
Kate Humble talks exclusively about the simple things in life that give her the greatest joy.
We look at the UK’s most vulnerable snakes and lizards – and what we can do to help them. Jimmy Doherty fronts a new aspirational engineering show for Discovery+.
Why a nature recovery era is needed to avert a nature catastrophe.
36 Exclusive Membership Offers Get a year’s membership and up to 50% off entry to a host of major attractions.
PRODUCTION ART DIRECTOR Lee Thomas MARKETING CREATIVE MARKETING MANAGER Dominic Littler PUBLISHING PUBLISHING DIRECTOR Clara Deeks MANAGING DIRECTOR Allistair Hunter OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Tracy Norton-Mead
05 Jimmy's Farm Contents Summer 2021.indd 5
Vet Chris Burton chats about his vital work looking after our wonderful animals.
Check out our tasty summer recipes for perfect ‘al fresco’ dining.
52 Amazing Asparagus
How to harness those spears of goodness for a taste that hits the spot.
58 Dream Weddings
29 Wildlife on the Brink
EDITORIAL EDITOR AT LARGE Jimmy Doherty EDITOR IN CHIEF Michaela Doherty EDITOR Anna Marie-Casas CONTRIBUTOR Lauren Andrews ADVERTISING SALES EXECUTIVE Chantell Keston Debbie Taylor
How you can support the Children’s Appeal at Ipswich Hospital.
14 Celebrity Interview
26 Hit the Road, Jim
26
After lockdown, we explore forest therapy as a way of healing our bodies and minds.
On your wedding day, you deserve everything you dream of – Jimmy’s Farm is just that…unique, relaxed and beautifully rural.
62 Garden Vault
Check out our hand-picked selection of leisure, fashion and shopping essentials for making the most of the garden this summer.
CONTACT Jimmy’s Good Life Magazine DS Media, 7 Faraday Close, Oakwood Industrial Estate, Clacton-On-Sea, Essex CO15 4TR Advertising Enquiries: 01255 221322 Editorial Enquiries: jimmysfarm@thedsgroup.co.uk Jimmy’s Good Life Magazine is published by DS Media on behalf of Jimmy’s Farm & Wildlife Park. The contents of this magazine must not be reproduced without permission. Jimmy’s Good Life Magazine is available at selected Waitrose and John Lewis stores throughout Suffolk & Essex. Jimmy’s Good Life Magazine is also available FREE to all visitors at Jimmy’s Farm & Wildlife Park, Pannington Hall Lane, Ipswich IP9 2AR
www.jimmysfarm.com
27/05/2021 20:48
2
S h o p at J i m my ’s Fa rm
Shopping Complete your family day out with our unique boutique experience via our onsite shops, studios and eateries
1
4
3
5 1. The Riva dress has become a spring/ summer ‘go-to’ and has been brightening up women’s wardrobes for many seasons. Sleeveless with a round neck and column-style fit through the body, it’s the perfect relaxed style. It’s cut just above the knee and is adorned in a sunshineready print. £39.95 Order in store 2. The much-loved Saunton sweatshirt has had an update for the season with the addition of some ribbon pulls at the
www.jimmysfarm.com
Jimmy's Farm Shopping pages.indd 6
neck for better fit and adjustment as well as some striking new stripes. Don’t worry, it has the same funnel neck, soft cotton fabric and concealed button placket you’ve come to love. £49.95 Order in store 3 & 4. Every wardrobe needs a basic t-shirt, or two, or three... After all, we are a nation that demands layers. These classic crew neck tops are made from a cotton jersey making them a comfortable, easy fit
Pig (12cm)
£4.95
6 whether they’re worn alone or styled under jumpers, jackets and coats. £19.95 in 2 colourways 5 & 6. Some days (we’re looking at you Sunday) call for something a little more paired back, and this Vicky jumper is exactly that. A great ‘throw-on’ piece, it’s lightweight perfect for the summer, easy to style with your favourite jeans or loungewear and has a relaxed fit for your ultimate comfort. £39.95 in 2 colourways
7 7. Your everyday jersey dress is back for another season! The popular Riviera jersey dress is a slim fitting style that sits just above the knee and will brighten your wardrobe come rain or shine. The short sleeves, relaxed neckline and easy-to-wear cotton combine to create a comfortable yet flattering style you’ll turn to again and again. £39.95 Order in store
Joules’ little gem of a shop is situated at the heart of the farm next to Jimmy’s restaurant
www.joules.com
06 27/05/2021 20:50
S ho p at J i m my ’s Fa rm
Shopping Bundles of joy Little Wattsits is run by mum-of-three Victoria Upsher, a child and family photographer specialising in newborn photography.
Little Wattsits at Jimmy’s Farm & Wildlife Park has some great packages this spring and summer to capture those precious memories. This studio is different to many others, which charge for a photoshoot and photographs separately. All packages are all-inclusive, meaning the photoshoot and unlimited digital images are included in the fee. Every usable image is professionally edited and emailed within 14 days of a shoot. All packages include full printing rights, allowing you to use, share and print as often as you like, wherever you like.
www.littlewattsitsphotography.com
From the moment you book, you know exactly how much it will cost to capture those precious memories to treasure forever.
All-inclusive deals:
Newborn package £299 Cake smash £199 Child portrait £99 Family portrait, from £150 Seasonal, from £99 By appointment only.
Piggies Sweets & Toys,
Anteater 28cm,
Stocks a wide range of animal plush toys along with pocket money end-of-day items, with prices from £1.95. www.jimmysfarm.com/piggies
£18.50
Dragon 15cm,
Raccoon 28cm,
£5.95
£18.50 Sloth 18cm,
Turtle 39cm,
£18.50
Jimmy's Farm Shopping pages.indd 7
£8.95
07
www.jimmysfarm.com
27/05/2021 20:50
JIMMY’S FARM
15% OFF
*
OFFER CODE: JIMMYSFARMSUM15
FREE CLICK AND COLLECT Order online and collect in store See the full collection at JOULES.COM
*Available on full price items only. Please ask in store for more details.
Sustainable swimwear made from recycled plastic bottles
Ads.indd 8
27/05/2021 21:56
S ho p at J i m my ’s Fa rm
Shopping Skater Flower power style Barbour Newbury Dress – Navy Floral Multi, £69.95 A gorgeous addition to your wardrobe is the Women’s Barbour Newbury Dress. It is a very feminine and flattering floral printed dress, featuring a self-fabric tie belt to accentuate your silhouette, along with a lovely binding detail along the neckline.
Clarkes of Walsham
Supplying country clothing, garden furniture & accessories, barbecues, animal feed, dog beds and boots…
Frugi Spring Skater Dress – Jewel India, £28-£30 The Spring Skater Dress from Frugi was designed specifically with little dancers in mind. It features a gorgeous full circular skirt that is perfect for twirling, with a beautiful, stylish print.
Comfy slumber Frugi Lovely Baby Grow – Cobalt Big Cats, £19 This organic cotton sleepsuit by Frugi features a colourful big cats design, cosy feet and plenty of room for cloth nappies. It is kind on delicate skin, keeps babies’ hands warm at night and prevents scratches.
Easy does it
Out of the blue
Schoffel Oakham Fleece Gilet – Cobalt Blue, £139.95 The Classic gilet from Schoffel in the latest colour, Cobalt Blue. Crafted using premium, high-quality Pontetorto fleece, this sleeveless gilet is excellent at adding warmth, style and a pop of colour.
Jimmy's Farm Shopping pages.indd 9
Crew Clothing Men’s Graphic Tee – Grey Marl, £25 For easy summer styling, look no further than this t-shirt from Crew Clothing. Crafted from cotton, it is super-soft and designed with a classic print.
www.clarkesofwalsham.co.uk
09
www.jimmysfarm.com
27/05/2021 23:57
News
Baby love Jimmy’s Farm & Wildlife Park is bigger and better than ever – come and meet all the new arrivals!
W
e’ve welcomed Suffolk’s first baby tapir and unveiled the biggest expansion ever at Jimmy’s Farm & Wildlife Park. Lowland tapirs Tiptap and Teddy are now the proud new parents of a beautiful boy called Tobias, born as part of a European breeding programme to grow this amazing, vulnerable species. Viewers who watched the TV series Autumn at Jimmy’s Farm last year would have seen our delight at finding out that Tiptap was pregnant. Tapirs are pregnant for 13 months, so Tobias was a long time coming!
www.jimmysfarm.com
Jimmy's Farm News 2020.indd 10
NAME
Tobi as
This funny looking animal roams the Amazon rainforest and is a very strong swimmer. They have even adapted to use the water to their advantage. If threatened by a predator, the tapir will dive into the water and use its incredible snout as a snorkel. Tiptap and Teddy both love the water with Tiptap often having a bath in the morning and evening. “We’re so grateful for Tobias and that he is building the population of this vulnerable species,” says general manager Stevie. The tapir is classed as a vulnerable species by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and is facing massive habitat loss in the wild. Deforestation means they are locked in small areas, creating tension as they fight for territory. Jimmy’s Farm & Wildlife Park supports the Lowland Tapir Conservation Initiative, which does great work in research and conservation of this special species.
It’s been a really busy time and we’ve welcomed even more new baby arrivals, including two sets of lamb triplets – our first ever! Our biggest expansion to date is now completed, with work involving getting 6.5 acres of new enclosures and a walkway ready in time for reopening after the latest lockdown. We’ve welcomed new arrivals, Grant’s zebras Zippy and Zoom, who are both around a year old and now live in our new Suffolk Savannah enclosure, forming part of our African exhibit. The smallest subspecies of the Plains zebra (with a shoulder height of about 4ft), Grant’s zebras are found across Africa. Zippy and Zoom join our first three Barbary macaques, who arrived towards the end of last year and will be joined by more of their cheeky friends soon. Exciting times! Please book your tickets with your choice of time slot (1 hour arrival slot). Entry is free for annual members, but you must book your visit and don’t forget your membership card. Go to jimmysfarm.com
10 28/05/2021 00:07
News
Monkeying
around Name
Zoom
Name
Adao
Zi ppy
Our super handsome young male is a very curious individual. He loves to sit up in the top of the trees and watch the public, the trains and even has his afternoon snooze in the tree canopy after his lunch.
Ndidi
A very confident lady, she loves parsnip and is always chatting to her keepers.
Sisi
This lady has a little bit of a grumpy face, but she is the sweetest macaque out of the three. She loves to sunbathe and is often seen grooming Ndidi.
11 Jimmy's Farm News 2020.indd 11
www.jimmysfarm.com
28/05/2021 00:07
News
The containers form part of a much bigger outside enclosure which is where the monkeys spend most of their day. The purpose of the containers is to provide a safe and secure area for the monkeys to sleep, a medical room to receive treatment and kitchen area for the zookeepers to prepare food. This work included fabrication, welding, a new lick of paint and more, before we delivered the containers to the farm, ready to be craned into place.
All aboard!
We catch up with our friends at MSC who kindly donated four end of service shipping containers to provide a primate pad for our Barbary macaques.
Tell us about your company and what you do. MSC Mediterranean Shipping Company S.A. (MSC) is a privately owned shipping line founded in 1970, which has rapidly grown into one of the leading global shipping lines in the world. In the UK, MSC offers the widest UK port range. Our 12 local ports and over 25 weekly deep-sea calls complemented by an extensive feeder network, provide our customers with the flexibility and confidence to move their cargo with MSC. How did you become involved in the monkey enclosure project – who came up with the genius idea of repurposing shipping containers to create a primate pad?
www.jimmysfarm.com
Jimmy's Farm News 2020.indd 12
Jimmy’s Farm approached MSC UK with their intention to rehome two families of Barbary macaque monkeys, and to adapt shipping containers to form part of a new enclosure. Keen to support our Suffolk neighbours, who share a common commitment towards sustainability, we were delighted to support and be involved in this fantastic project using recycled end of service MSC containers, a cause we feel very passionate about. What type of containers were used? MSC UK donated 2x40ft and 2x20ft end of service shipping containers and joined forces with Jimmy’s Farm to draw up plans and devise a new layout that would maximise the available space.
What makes them ideal to be used in this way? Owing to their hard wearing, easy to adapt nature, and the ability to maintain high levels of cleanliness, end of service shipping containers provided the perfect foundations in which to build a specialised sustainable animal enclosure. How did you feel when you saw the monkeys enjoying their new home? MSC UK fully supports the use of recycled materials and is proud that four of our containers will now provide warmth and shelter for these animals for many more years to come. By supporting Jimmy’s Farm with this project, we’re pleased to be playing a role in the conservation and protection of these animals as part of our commitment to sustainability; a business model that goes far beyond a ‘business as usual’ approach, remaining true to its roots and its core family values, is our commitment. With our UK head office located just over five miles away, we are all very excited to now be able to visit Jimmy’s Farm and the new enclosure.
12 27/05/2021 20:57
News
Meet our new rangers Name: Alex Hutchings
Name: Holly Lapere
About me: I am originally from Dorset, in the south of England, but before I came to Jimmy’s Farm I lived in Anglesey in north Wales. How I become a ranger: I started as a presenter in Skegness in an aquarium. I really enjoyed it; it was a fantastic experience and I got to meet some great people. I was unsure whether I wanted to carry on working in an aquarium or with terrestrial animals. I left the aquarium and worked for a fish farm in Anglesey. It was a very technical job, and I monitored the fish from a computer. It wasn’t as hands on as I would have liked that’s why I left and came to Jimmy’s Farm. Why I love my job: I wake up in the morning and look forward to my day. I think that is so rare to find but I really have that feeling here. I get to work with incredible species that I have a bond with, and I can interact with them. Favourite animals at Jimmy’s Farm: I love the emus as they are such characters. They are goofy and so curious, always coming over to see what is going on. I also love Terry the Tegu as, although he had a bad life before he came here, he is so friendly and confident and it is lovely to see.
About me: I’m from Dorking in Surrey. I am part of a big family and I do miss being away from home but I’m hoping they will come and visit now that the farm and wildlife park is open! How I became a ranger: I went to college and studied Level 3 Animal Management. After that, I volunteered at many different zoos across the country, such as Paradise Wildlife Park which was great! I then came to Jimmy’s Farm & Wildlife Park, and I am loving it so far. Why I love my job: I just love working with animals! Anyone who knows me knows that all I’ve wanted to do is work with animals and especially hoofstock, which is the section I work in now. Favourite animals at Jimmy’s Farm: I love all hooftsock, so the two zebra that we recently got here are great and I also love the camels. Our two Bactrian camels, Alice and Arthur, are funny with who they like and when I first joined here, they didn’t like me – but now they come over when I visit them, eat out of my hand and allow me to stroke them.
13 Jimmy's Farm News 2020.indd 13
www.jimmysfarm.com
27/05/2021 20:58
I nte rv i ew
‘We’ve confused convenience with simplicity’ Writer and broadcaster Kate Humble talks exclusively about her wanderlust, life on a farm and how she’s discovered that it’s the simple things in life that give us the greatest joy. We catch up with you as the UK emerges from lockdown – how has it been for you and what are you looking forward to most as restrictions ease? I’m so lucky to live where I live; in the countryside and on a small holding with a farm down the road which I also help run, and nature and animals don’t stop for lockdown. My husband, Ludo, is a director and cameraman and we’ve been working together a lot. In many respects, life hasn’t been that different, but the thing I’ve missed – which I suspect will resonate with everybody – is just sitting around the kitchen table with my mates. I’m a hugger and I’ve found it really difficult not being able to hug. You’ve been busy writing your latest book, A Year of Living Simply – tell us all about it and why you wrote it. I literally disappeared for the whole of January last year with my dog and stayed in a little cabin in West Wales, and just wrote for a month to get the book finished. The book celebrates a lot of the things that people have www.jimmysfarm.com
Celeb interview Humble 2021.indd 14
rediscovered in lockdown – simplicity and the joys that come with it. One of the things that we’ve done as a society is confuse the idea of convenience with simplicity. The simplest way to have a loaf of bread on the table is to go and buy one at the supermarket, but there’s no achievement in that, there’s no fun in that, there’s no control over that, there’s no joy to be had from that. The joy of making a loaf of bread is infinite. There’s something absolutely wonderful about taking raw, very simple ingredients, mixing them together and making them into something you can eat. The book is about my journey to try and bring more simplicity into my life and more joy with it. I fundamentally felt that I had got life out of kilter. I was working incredibly hard and, yes, I could buy things if I wanted them, but actually I didn’t want to buy anything – I just wanted more time to be in my garden and go for a walk. I think what this book encourages people to do is open up space in their lives to allow these simple pleasures
– whether it’s making things from scratch, growing things or mending things. Those very simple pleasures – people have realised in lockdown how unbelievably therapeutic and important they are to all of us. We’re all looking for happiness, yet attaining it has become anything but simple – what are some of the things that make you happy? Being able to see the sky – just being outside, day or night. There is something absolutely wonderful about the night sky and getting up first thing in the morning and just seeing the sky above you – having that uninterrupted view. The other thing is cooking for people – there is nothing more convivial than putting some food together for a group of people you love. It doesn’t have to be a feast and it doesn’t have to be anything fancy. It can literally be apples and a piece of cheese and some bread you’ve made. And just being amongst animals – whether it’s farm animals, the animals that are in my care or wildlife. I will see deer most days, I might see a badger or a fox, and hear birds singing.
14 27/05/2021 21:03
I nte rv i ew
Photography by Clare Richardson
15 Celeb interview Humble 2021.indd 15
www.jimmysfarm.com
27/05/2021 21:03
I nte rv i ew
“Those very simple pleasures – people have realised in lockdown how unbelievably therapeutic and important they are to all of us.”
www.jimmysfarm.com
Celeb interview Humble 2021.indd 16
16 27/05/2021 21:05
I nte rv i ew
I love going for a walk with my dog and we’ll just sit in the woods and see what happens. Being immersed in the natural environment is really important for my general sense of wellbeing. What are your earliest memories as a child of experiencing nature? My mum used to cut the crusts of the bread for our toast in the morning. We had a sparrow called Martha that knew this, and she would come and peck on the kitchen window and share our toast with us. I just remember this lovely feeling of seeing this wild bird popping into the kitchen. We also had a hedge that grew along the back of the house which had beautiful pink blossom. Blackbirds always nested in it and it was always a good place to look for snails. I vividly remember seeing the blackbirds flying in and out of the hedge, and my dad showing me these beautiful blue eggs, and then being aware of a blackbird coming back with things in her beak and seeing these funny, awkward, slightly ugly fledgelings appear from my hedge. The wonderful thing would be finding the little bits of shell that had been tossed out of the nest and I remember having endless matchboxes lined with bits of cottonwool with the shell being my special treasure. You left school and home at 18 and funded a year of travelling around Africa with odd jobs – what made you do that and have you always possessed an adventurer’s spirit? I just had this irrepressible wanderlust – I really wanted to go and see other parts of the world. I still don’t like flying and I was completely scared of it back then, but I found school and the way that we were taught incredibly restrictive. I went to a very academic school and essentially all I was taught to do was pass exams. I wasn’t taught anything that made me then think, I know about this and I want to know more. It sounds precocious, and perhaps it was, but I just thought, this isn’t education and I’m not getting anything out of this. So, I hightailed it away from education as quickly as I possibly could and thought I’ll kind of teach myself, and the way I
felt I was going to learn the most was to travel, meet different people living in different circumstances, and be openminded and curious. Whenever anyone asks, “How do I get your job?”, I say there really is no secret apart from the fact that you have always got to be curious, always ask questions, be open-minded and embrace what’s in front of you. However difficult, overwhelming and scary, just go for it. When I did Who do you Think you Are? a few years ago, I found out that my mum’s father, who died when I was 10, was a big adventurer and ended up being part of The Great Escape. None of us knew that. My other grandfather was a test pilot, so an unbelievably brave man who also had impossible wanderlust. Mum always blamed them for my genes, which have basically made me a restless soul.
17 Celeb interview Humble 2021.indd 17
Did you always dream of becoming a TV presenter and what was your first big break? As a younger teenager, I did harbour ambitions to be an actress and I did audition for the National Youth Theatre. I got a second audition, but then I didn’t get in and kind of gave up. I didn’t really have any career plan. I’ve always loved writing – the only prize I ever won was a creative writing prize when I was eight – and I love reading. I was always just very nosey and curious. When I went travelling, I did all sorts of jobs – I was probably the world’s worst model for a couple of months, I worked on a crocodile farm, I drove a truck for a safari company, I did all sorts of things. If I’d stayed in Africa (I ran out of money), what I really wanted was to be a ranger and work with wildlife. www.jimmysfarm.com
27/05/2021 21:05
I nte rv i ew
We thought there must be lots of people like us and we could set up a business alongside the farm that brings it more income, and that’s where the idea for the rural skills school came from. It’s a livestock farm, we’re quite high up and exposed so predominantly there are sheep and cattle but we also rear a few pigs, goats, hens and ducks. There’s a lot of really great artisans around us and it’s quite a collaborative place.
When I came back to the UK, I had this idea that I wanted to work in telly – I really have no idea why as I hadn’t really grown up watching TV but I liked the thought of finding out about things. I started as a runner and then a production assistant, and then I became a researcher – and that was a job that I really loved. The presenting came about entirely by accident; I had started writing travel articles for The Telegraph and working at the BBC. My wanderlust got me a job on a holiday programme, and I was asked to do a screen test, even though I wasn’t particularly interested back then. But I suppose what I did bring to being a presenter was understanding how programmes were made because I’d done all the background stuff, so I could be a proper functioning member of a team – and that’s probably helped me continue to do it to after 25 years or so. You must be incredibly busy - how do you like to spend your spare time? Going for a walk is everything – it’s my therapy, its my quiet time, it’s exercise, it’s the simplest and most rewarding www.jimmysfarm.com
Celeb interview Humble 2021.indd 18
of pleasures. Hand on heart, if I had five days free now, I would take my dog and a rucksack with a tent in it, and I would walk across the Brecon Beacons, which is a walk I have wanted to do for a very long time but have never had enough time to do it in one fail swoop. About three or four years ago, I did manage to walk along the River Wye, which is about 136 miles long, with my dog and that was just a wonderful thing to do. What was the inspiration for Humble by Nature, your rural skills school in the Wye Valley? We took on a council-owned farm of just over 100 acres, which was going to be broken up and sold off because they thought it was unviable, but Ludo and I thought we should try to keep it as a working tenanted farm and that you just need to think outside the box. One of the things we realised when we moved to Wales and a small holding was that, although both of us had been brought up in the countryside, neither of us had been responsible for livestock before and there was nowhere to learn.
You’ve made many TV programmes and are an accomplished author with four narrative books under your belt – what’s your proudest moment? When I was working on Spring Watch many years ago, we had a wonderful local circus, Giffords Circus, and I went with my husband. We were having a drink in the interval standing in the field, and I could see a woman with her 10-year-old boy who wanted to come over. He was really shy and he came up to me and he said, “Are you the Spring Watch lady – can I tell you about the hedgehog in my garden?” And that for me was such a lovely moment. I thought, how fantastic – here is a little boy who is so excited about noticing something amazing in his garden. It was so lovely to know that I’d been able to do something that showed a child just how special nature is – that’s the future of our planet, right there. What’s coming up for 2021 that you’re particularly excited about? We’ve made another series on the farm of Escape to the Farm and I’m filming another series of A Country Life, which follows people making some courageous moves to an entirely different part of the country and a different way of life. We have some amazing families, and it doesn’t always work out. Apart from that, I’m just really excited about enjoying a cider with my friends at the pub.
18 27/05/2021 21:05
01255 318809
info@hastys.co.uk
hastys.co.uk
BOOKING ONLINE IS ESSENTIAL West Road, Clacton On Sea Adventure Playground – For Big Kids Animal Barn & Animals Outdoors Outdoor Play – For Little Kids Sand and Water Play Tractor Park Den Building Go-Karts And so much more…….
learn something new on Kate Humble’s farm
We Build Great Gardens
about humble by nature
Humble by Nature is Kate Humble's working farm and rural skills centre.Whether you’re thinking about getting animals, want to learn a practical skill like sheep shearing or hedge laying, try wild food foraging, willow weaving or make sausages. Our hands-on courses will give you the knowledge and confidence to get started at home.
upcoming courses • Smallholding • Bee Keeping • Foraging • Cider Making
• Dry Stone Walling • Charcuterie • Willow Weaving • Build a Pizza Oven
• • • •
Hedge-Laying Spinning Photography Print Making
Gift vouchers, accommodation & course packages are available
www.humblebynature.com 01600714595 Ads.indd 19
§ All landscaping tasks undertaken § § Specialising in water features and driveways § § Perfectly based on the Suffolk/Norfolk border but covering all of the UK §
Vandenberg-Hider LANDSCAPE DESIGN AND CONSTRUC TION
Contact Dawn on 01379 854848 or dawn@vandenberghider.plus.com for a free initial meeting and quotation. Please see www.vandenberg-hider.co.uk for further details.
27/05/2021 21:59
A ni m a ls
Discover our native
dragons
As one in five of the world’s reptile species face being wiped out, we team up with our friends at Amphibian and Reptile Conservation (ARC) to look at the UK’s most vulnerable snakes and lizards – and what we can all do to scale up efforts to save them.
T
hey’ve roamed the planet for hundreds of millions of years. But, sadly, nearly one in five of the world’s 10,000 species of reptiles are now threatened with extinction. Habitat loss and climate change are among the main factors contributing to the extinction risk for reptiles, with 332 species classed as ‘Critically Endangered’, meaning they have a high chance of becoming extinct in the near future. There is growing concern that even our widespread species in the UK are in decline. ARC, a national wildlife charity, manages over 80 nature reserves that cover some 2,000 hectares. These include a significant suite of lowland heathland sites that are home to all six native reptile species.
www.jimmysfarm.com
Reptiles 2021.indd 20
It leads on recovery programmes, especially for more threatened species, including managing reintroduction and captive breeding programmes, direct engagement through site management and running national monitoring schemes. The trust actively engages with advocacy on legislation and policy in the UK and further afield, to see that amphibians and reptiles are being considered in funding mechanisms. It also supports and undertakes research and provides educational and training programmes to promote amphibian and reptile conservation. There are six species of reptile (three lizards and three snakes) that are native to the UK. While the common lizard and slow-worm are widespread across the UK, others are rare with a
much more restricted distribution. All are protected from harm by law. “We aim to improve the status of Britain’s snakes and lizards, and to help people to get involved in their conservation,” says Jim Foster, ARC Conservation Director. “It is hard to appreciate something you cannot see; once you appreciate something, it then becomes important to preserve it. That’s why at ARC we spend time helping people to see and learn about reptiles in their area. As snakes and lizards are tricky to spot, and are often associated with unfortunate misunderstandings, our work is vital.” We take a look at three of our most endangered reptile species, how ARC is trying to protect them, and how we can all do our little bit to help by simply exploring our gardens.
20 27/05/2021 21:08
A ni m a ls
Adder
The adder is the UK’s only venomous snake and is mostly found on heaths, moors and coastal areas. However, its secretive nature and camouflaged markings mean it often goes unnoticed. While it has a large range across the country, recent declines – especially in central England – mean it is a major conservation concern. Though potentially serious, adder bites to humans or dogs are very rarely fatal. There are only around ten recorded cases of death from an adder bite in the last 100 years, and most bites occur when the snake has been disturbed or deliberately antagonised.
The adder is the most northerly member of the viper family and is found throughout Britain, from the south coast of England to the far north of Scotland. Adders like open habitats such as heathland, moorland, open woodland and sea cliffs, typically on free-draining soils such as chalk or sand, but they rarely enter gardens. The adder can grow to around 60cm, and is easily recognised by a dark, continuous ‘zig-zag’ stripe along its back. There is also a row of dark spots along each side. The background colour varies from grey-white in the male to shades of brown or copper in
21 Reptiles 2021.indd 21
the female. Young adders are copper, light brown or reddish, with darker brown markings. Completely black adders occur in some areas. Adders feed largely on small rodents and lizards and typically live five to ten years. Their main predators include birds such as crows and buzzards. ARC is undertaking survey and habitat management to conserve these populations. At some of its reserves, it is trialling a programme of mapping adder hibernation areas, to help ensure these critical areas are looked after. ARC is also working on policy changes to help protect adders populations.
www.jimmysfarm.com
27/05/2021 21:08
A ni m a ls
Smooth snake
The smooth snake is Britain’s rarest reptile and now found naturally only on heathlands in Dorset, Hampshire and only a very few sites in Surrey. Many areas where it is found are also inhabited by the sand lizard. Snakes in the Heather is an exciting and ambitious project led by ARC to conserve the smooth snake throughout its range in Southern England. As this snake is really secretive, ARC has to be careful where it reintroduces the species – a process which can take several years to ensure it is not already there. To date, the organisation has been able to restore smooth snakes to sites in Surrey, west Sussex, Dorset and Devon. The smooth snake needs well managed heathland, where it is mainly found in mature vegetation that offers good cover. It shares the slow-worm’s habit of hiding under stones, logs and other debris exposed to the sun, rarely basking in the open.
Smaller and more slender than other snakes, usually only growing to 6070cm in length, they are generally grey or a dull brown in colour with black markings arranged in bars or two rows of dots down the back. Smooth snakes nearly always have a heart-shaped ‘crown’ marking, which covers the top of the head. An eye stripe is usually present, extending from the eyes along the side of the head. Its name comes from the fact that its scales are flat and smooth, unlike those of the grass snake and adder which have a ridge (or ‘keel’) down the middle. They are non-venomous and feed mainly on common lizards, slow-worms and small mammals (especially shrews and nestling rodents), which are captured and constricted in the coils of its body.
Sand lizard
Due to vast habitat loss, the sand lizard now only occurs naturally on protected heathland sites in Surrey,
Dorset, Hampshire and the protected Merseyside dunes systems. As this species requires both mature sunny habitats and open, undisturbed sand to lay its eggs, its distribution is limited even within protected sites. Thanks to a reintroduction programme led by ARC, sand lizards have now been re-established at many other sites in these counties as well as protected dune sites in north and west Wales, Kent, west Sussex, Devon and Cornwall. The sand lizard is a stocky lizard, reaching up to 20cm in length. Both sexes have brown varied patterns down the back with two strong dorsal stripes. The male has extremely striking green flanks. It is dependent on well managed heathland or sand dune habitats, where it occupies mature vegetation that provides good cover. Since its inception in 2009, ARC has taken the lead in sand lizard conservation in Britain. ARC has undertaken habitat restoration and maintenance, monitoring,
22 Reptiles 2021.indd 22
27/05/2021 21:09
A ni m a ls
Did you know? We have added a new invertebrate enclosure to our Tropical House! The enclosure is home to Sun Beetles and African Train Millipedes. See if you can spot them next time you visit.
and advocacy work with landowners. The 10,000th sand lizard was released in 2019 as part of ARC’s long-term reintroduction programme.
Find your inner dragon
ARC’s Dragons in your Garden initiative encourages gardeners to take simple steps to help out the UK’s frogs, toads, newts, snakes and lizards – many of which are disappearing from the wider countryside. Gardens can provide important habitats for reptiles and amphibians, so here’s what you can do in your own backyard... ARC wants to find out more about the reptiles and amphibians that people find in their gardens and how many offer a habitat that benefits them. Are gardens in some parts of the UK especially rich in amphibians and reptiles? By taking part, you can help ARC gather information that will inform its conservation work and the advice
that it gives to help amphibians and reptiles. Exploring your garden to learn more about the wildlife that lives there is fun and you don’t need a lot of time to do this survey. Simply spend a few minutes carefully looking in your garden and tell ARC about your garden and what you find by filling in an online survey. ARC suggests spending around 10 minutes of searching, but you can adjust the amount of time to suit your own garden and the time you have available. You can do the survey once or many times. Ideally, repeat the survey from time to time, perhaps once a week and try to spend roughly the same time each time you do the survey. Look in places where these animals are likely to be found such as in or around a pond, compost heaps, at the bottom of a hedge or garden borders, near log or rock piles. Move quietly, trying not to disturb the wildlife and do not pick up or handle any animals you find.
23 Reptiles 2021.indd 23
Your contribution will help ARC to map garden reptiles and amphibians and report back on what people are finding and enable you to see what has been mapped in your area. If you’re new to amphibians and reptiles, why not do ARC’s free Garden Bitesize course online and at your own pace? This will show you how to recognise the species you are most likely to see in the garden and how to find them. You can also help by becoming an ARC Friend with a membership, and claim a welcome pack containing an array of species identification resources. There are some great free online activities for the kids too. Visit www.arc-trust.org
www.jimmysfarm.com
27/05/2021 21:09
A ni m a ls
200
The African spurred tortoise, also called the Sulcata Tortoise, inhabits the southern edge of the Sahara Desert and is one of the largest species of tortoise in the world. Some, particularly males, have been known to grow to a whopping 200lbs (90kg) and they can live for 70 years or more.
13
Common Boa, also known as the Boa Constrictor, are usually solitary snakes that have good eyesight, but they rely a lot on scent. They grow up to 13 feet long (3.96m) and can weigh more than 100lbs (45kg).
In Numbers We have some awesome reptiles staying here with us at Jimmy’s Farm & Wildlife Park. On a visit you can see all of them up close, our keepers can tell you all about them and, in some cases, you can have close encounters with them!
5
Argentine Black & White Tegus live in a wide range of climates in Argentina; they can be found in both tropical areas and temperate climates that have cold winters and can grow to nearly 5ft (1.5m).
www.jimmysfarm.com
Reptiles 2021.indd 24
3
The Morelet’s crocodile, also known as the Belize crocodile, is a relatively small species found only in the fresh waters of the Atlantic regions of Mexico, Belize and Guatemala. It usually grows to about 9.8 ft (3m) in length.
20 24
Red-footed tortoises originate in South America and live on a vegetarian diet. They have a bumpy, concave shell and have 15-20 teeth either side of their jaw – perfect for chomping!
27/05/2021 21:09
d
k
Fi
t
g
o
e
r p
“We love these books, I had them as a child and remember having to find the duck on every page with my parents. Now my youngest, tractor mad, son loves the stories too.” “Didn’t disappoint, he loves it and has a story from it every night at bedtime.” “You can’t go wrong with Poppy and Sam.”
usborne.com/poppyandsam Ads.indd 25
28/05/2021 13:47
Te lev i s i o n
T
he eight-part-series, Builds on Wheels, will see life-long tinkerer Jimmy tracking down those who are turning everyday runarounds into extraordinary motoring marvels, ready to hit the road and explore the world in comfort. Discovery UK has commissioned Betty production company to make the show, co-produced with Kremplewood, showing enthusiasts converting anything from removal vans to fire engines and military trucks into awesome homes from home. Immersing with great characters embarking on very personal vehicle transformations, Jimmy will be joined be his trusty mate and engineer Jimmy de Ville, who will be on hand to offer technical support. Whether they are struggling with a design challenge, need a bit of extra engineering
www.jimmysfarm.com
Wheels 2021.indd 26
know-how or a specialist piece of kit, the pair will step in to help owners speed up the process and bring their dreams to life. When they are not doing their bit for amateur builders, Jimmy and Jimmy will be on the road to get inspiration from some of the best completed builds around, test-driving extraordinary conversions. And our Jimmy will also get the chance to fulfil a lifelong ambition – building his own dream vehicle. “It’s been a joy to meet so many passionate people, taking control of their destiny and creating their dream getaways,” says Jimmy. “And they’ve given me some great ideas for my own incredible vehicle conversion. I’m looking forward to loading up the family and hitting the road – you’ll definitely see me coming!”
Jimmy de Ville adds: “Helping people through the technical challenges involved in creating their dream vehicles which will allow them to realise their dreams, enabling them to experience the freedoms of the open road and the wonders of the wilds is a true pleasure. Working with Jimmy creating a mad-cap adventure mobile is nothing short of joyous.” Discovery’s Simon Downing says audiences “can expect a funny and inspirational series with some remarkable motoring conversions”. Betty’s David Harrison adds: “Never before have so many people grabbed spanners and grinders, united in their passion to explore the great outdoors, and we’re delighted to join Jimmy and Jimmy’s mission to bring these inspirational stories to the Discovery+ UK audience."
26 27/05/2021 21:11
Te lev i s i o n
Hit the road, Jim Jimmy Doherty will be travelling around the country fronting a new aspirational engineering show for Discovery+.
27 Wheels 2021.indd 27
www.jimmysfarm.com
27/05/2021 21:12
Start as you mean to go on St Joseph’s College Ipswich is an independent school for ages 2 to 18, with an outstanding Nursery and Prep School. Space to thrive
Our Nursery welcomes children from two years and offers a bright and caring environment with space to thrive and all the facilities of our 60-acre campus. Government childcare funding available. Our nurturing Prep School encourages children to reach their full potential and our forward-thinking curriculum includes Engineering, Music, Computing and Science, taught by specialist teachers and all accommodated in a building designed with little ones in mind. To find out more contact our admissions team via admissions@stjos.co.uk | 01473 694576
We are stjos.co.uk
Ads.indd 28
27/05/2021 22:01
C o ns e rvat i o n
B
ritain’s climate zones are moving by up to five kilometres a year because of rising temperatures – with potentially catastrophic impacts for wildlife, says Rewilding Britain. The shift – due to climate warming that is hundreds of times faster than at the end of the last ice age – is set to outpace many species’ ability to adapt. Rewilding Britain’s research shows that a massive increase in restoring and connecting species-rich habitats across at least 30 per cent of Britain’s land and sea by 2030 could help save a fifth of species from climate-driven habitat loss, decline or extinction.
Wildlife on the brink As climate zones in the UK shift, Rewilding Britain says a nature recovery era is needed to avert a wildlife catastrophe.
29 Rewild 2021.indd 29
www.jimmysfarm.com
27/05/2021 21:13
C o ns e rvat i o n
The charity is calling for the creation of core rewilding areas across at least five per cent of Britain, with a rich mosaic of nature-friendly land and marine uses across another 25 per cent of the country. “Nature is our life support system and it’s at risk. We urgently need to kick-start a new era of rewilding and nature restoration to match the growing tsunami of climate heating and species extinction,” says Rebecca Wrigley, Rewilding Britain’s Chief Executive. “We can only thrive if nature thrives, so we need to think big and act wild, with radical change in how we manage land and sea to halt and reverse biodiversity declines – and tackle climate breakdown.” Although Britain should be teeming with wildlife, populations of species – from songbirds to insects to plankton – are collapsing, with some 56 per cent in decline and 15 per cent threatened with extinction.
www.jimmysfarm.com
Rewild 2021.indd 30
Rewilding Britain says its proposal for a network of core rewilding areas across five per cent of Britain would restore as many natural processes, habitats and related species as possible – with a mix of native forest, peat bogs, moorlands, heaths, grasslands, wetlands, saltmarshes, kelp beds, seagrass and living reefs, and without loss of productive farmland. These rewilding areas should be embedded in nature-enhancing landscapes across at least another quarter of Britain’s land and sea, it says. The organisation has launched the Rewilding Network – a hub bringing together and offering advice to anyone interested in rewilding on a large scale or in gardens and communities. For more information, go to rewildingbritain.org.uk
30 27/05/2021 21:14
C o ns e rvat i o n
“We can only thrive if nature thrives, so we need to think big and act wild.” Rebecca Wrigley, Chief Executive, Rewilding Britain
Did you know? Our woodland is home to native plants and some amazing British wildlife, from the elusive badger to the confident Muntjac deer. You may also smell a fox or hear the rustling of the hedgehogs in the leaf litter.
31 Rewild 2021.indd 31
www.jimmysfarm.com
27/05/2021 21:14
C o ns e rvat i o n
As Easy as A Bee See! The Bumblebee Conversation Trust is on a mission to create a buzz and encourage everyone to Bee the Change in their local area. A campaign has launched encouraging everyone across the UK to take simple, quick micro-actions to make their postcode more bumblebee friendly. Much-loved insects that pollinate our crops and wildflowers, bumblebees are in trouble and need our help. Over the past century, our landscape has lost millions of the flowers they rely on to survive. A third of Britain’s bee species have fallen in numbers over the last 40 years. Through the campaign, people will pledge to Bee the Change and carry out easy tasks like spotting nearby bumblebees, growing bee-friendly plants, creating wild bumblebee havens, and spreading the #BeeTheChange message with friends, family and local communities. The Bumblebee Conservation Trust is supplying downloadable free resources and how-to guides. Anyone can take part, whether you live in the city or the countryside, and whether you have a garden, a flowerpot or no outdoor space at all. “By taking simple actions for bumblebees, together we can get these pollinating superheroes buzzing again and make a big, combined change for nature,” says Chloe Headdon, Bee the Change Project Officer at the Bumblebee Conservation Trust.
www.jimmysfarm.com
Rewild 2021.indd 32
“Everyone can help these amazing insects by pledging to Bee the Change.” The campaign has been inspired by recent research for the Bumblebee Conservation Trust which showed that six in 10 UK adults think ‘bees dying off ’ is a very serious issue – a similar number of people to those with concerns about climate change and deforestation. The same survey revealed over half of UK adults are aware and concerned about the consequences of biodiversity loss in their local area and would plant a variety of flowers to feed bumblebees. Just over a third indicated they would like to learn more about bumblebees online. Gill Perkins, Chief Executive of the Bumblebee Conservation Trust, adds: “We know that many people want to take small, easy action ideas to help bumblebees but perhaps don’t know where to start or are worried they don’t have enough time. We want to make it easy for everyone to get involved. The Bee the Change resources on our website help anyone make the small changes that add up to a big difference to bumblebees. Together we can save the sound of summer, wherever we live.” Make your Bee the Change pledge online at bumblebeeconservation. org/beethechange
32 28/05/2021 01:01
C o ns e rvat i o n
Did you know? Jimmy is the patron of the British Beekeepers Association. He also presented a Channel 4 TV programme called ‘Jimmy’s Big Bee Rescue’ – have you watched it?
A new children’s book about a young girl who rewilds her grandad’s farm has an important message – if you embrace the wonder of wildlife at a young age you will never look back. In Poppy Goes Wild, written by Nick Powell, the main character is on a mission to save her grandad’s farm by returning the countryside to how it was 50 years ago, when wildflower meadows and native wild animals flourished. Hares hopped, skylarks soared, otters raced and peregrine falcons dive-bombed throughout the idyllic landscape. In recent decades much of Britain’s wildlife has disappeared, with over half of our species in decline and 15 per cent threatened with extinction because of issues including habitat loss, agricultural changes, pollution and climate warming. But throughout the country, initiatives are underway to restore the balance and to safeguard British wildlife for future generations. Poppy Goes Wild demonstrates that you are never too young to start looking after nature. The book encourages children and families everywhere to do what they can to help nature work its magic. “This enchanting book celebrates the thrilling experience of discovering wildlife when you are young,” says Jimmy Doherty. “There are many lessons that we can learn from the past and allowing more land to run wild and free is a vital one.” Author and award-winning TV producer Nick has written the book in the hope that it will inspire determination in children to do what they can to look after wildlife. “The key message for me in Poppy Goes Wild is that if you embrace the wonder of wildlife at a young age you will never look back – and the rewards will be there for you and for nature, for the rest of your life.” Poppy Goes Wild, published by Little Steps Publishing, is available to buy online at Waterstones and Amazon and at your local bookshop. For more details, visit littlestepspublishing.co.uk
33 Rewild 2021.indd 33
www.jimmysfarm.com
28/05/2021 01:02
C o ns e rvat i o n
Rewild your garden s Leave areas in your garden as natural habitats, such as hedges and ponds, or create a hedgehog bunker or bug garden. s Hedges, trees and climbing plants make good shelters while bird boxes will also draw wildlife. s Choose flowering plants that are best for pollinators, such as borage, butterfly bush, dahlias, daisies, lavender, marigolds, snapdragons and sunflowers, and plant some meadow wildflowers. s Maintain a source of clean water for wildlife – a water butt to collect rainwater is a great way to achieve this. s Try to avoid using pesticides in your garden and find non-toxic alternatives. s Turn your garden lights off overnight – lighting disrupts the natural life cycles and rhythms of wildlife, including moths, bats and birds.
www.jimmysfarm.com
Rewild 2021.indd 34
34 27/05/2021 21:15
Summer Staycations The perfect base to explore Essex & Suffolk
Quote Jimmy’s F arm whe n booking an overn ight stay and rece ive a comp limenta ry bottle o f prosec co!
T&Cs apply
Enjoy a summer staycation this year, a stone’s throw from Constable Country. Sea, shopping and sightseeing are all within easy reach of Wivenhoe House, whether you are a couple searching for a romantic break or a family seeking an ultimate adventure, we have something to offer. So join us this summer and explore the beautiful Essex countryside and the wonders it has to offer, all on the doorstep of our country house hotel.
info@wivenhoehouse.co.uk 01206 863666 wivenhoehouse.co.uk
Ads.indd 35
27/05/2021 22:02
Me m b e rs hi p
Get a year’s membership and discounted entry to a host of major attractions - from just 11p a day!
UP TO 50% OFF AT 13 TOURIST ATTRACTIONS Check out! jimmysfarm.com/membership/ to see where else you can benefit! Become a member at Jimmy’s Farm & Wildlife Park and reap the rewards! Annual membership giving year-round access is just £40 for a child - that's 11p a day - and £55 per adult (concessions £35). Not only that – you will also receive amazing discounts across most of the outlets onsite and up to 50% off entry to a host of other major tourist attractions across East Anglia. Enter your membership details when booking at other partner attractions. Visit jimmysfarm.com/ membership for more details
www.jimmysfarm.com
Jimmy's Farm Memership card 2021.indd 36
36 27/05/2021 21:28
Me X xm x xbxexrsxhi x xp
Sun bears at Paradise Wildlife Park!
Paradise Wildlife Park has announced the next groundbreaking habitat at its World of Animals. Sun Bear Heights will be an exciting and ambitious wildlife exhibit that will open at the venue in Broxbourne, Hertfordshire in summer 2021. The project will see sun bears sharing the habitat with binturong and Asian shortclawed otters in a Malaysian mixed exhibit that will be the first of its kind in the UK. Sun bears live in the dense jungles of Malaysia and are known for spending a lot of time in the tops of trees. They have a beautiful and unique golden marking across their chest and are the smallest species of bear, standing only four feet on their hind legs. Asian short-clawed otters will be given access to the new
37 Jimmy's Farm Memership card 2021.indd 37
area that will also house the park’s second new species – binturongs! Binturongs are known as ‘bear cats’ despite not actually being related to bears or cats. They are unusual looking mammals that are related to civets and fossas, and they have a distinct, popcorn-like scent. The Asian short-clawed otter is the world’s smallest otter and, just like the binturong and sun bear, is a vulnerable species under threat of becoming endangered. Paradise Wildlife Park is committed to supporting sun bear conservation and will raise funds towards the efforts of conservation charities. The park also aims to solidify a partnership with bear conservation charities working in Malaysia. www.pwpark.com
www.jimmysfarm.com
27/05/2021 21:28
Me m b e rs hi p
Winner
Bray cheese!
We’re delighted to announce the winner of our social media competition, who receives an annual family membership for Jimmy’s Farm & Wildlife Park. We invited you to take a wildlife photo on your visit and share @JimmysFarmMag and @JimmysFarmHQ with the hashtag #jimmyswildlifephoto to win this great prize! The lucky winner is – Gemma and Andy Hall with this hilarious snap of one of our camera-friendly donkeys. The winning entry, shown here with other entrants, was chosen at random. Thank you all for taking part and congratulations to Gemma and Andy.
www.jimmysfarm.com
Photographic 2021.indd 38
38 27/05/2021 21:29
ROY TOLLEY REDUCING YOUR CARBON FOOT PRINT
ALL-NEW PEUGEOT E-2008 SUV
NEW PEUGEOT 3008 HYBRID
CITROËN C5 AIRCROSS SUV HYBRID
MG5 ELECTRIC
ALL-NEW PEUGEOT E-208
PEUGEOT 508 FASTBACK HYBRID
PEUGEOT 508 SW HYBRID
AVAILABLE NOW Ë-C4
MG ZS ELECTRIC
01206 574488 www.roytolley.co.uk 72 Gosbecks Road, Colchester, Essex, CO2 9JS MG HS PLUG-IN HYBRID
Ads.indd 39
27/05/2021 22:03
Nat u re
www.jimmysfarm.com
Trees 2021.indd 40
40 27/05/2021 21:31
Nat u re
Healing
trees
More than ever after lockdown, forest therapy is gaining ground as a way of both healing our bodies and minds and preventing future health problems. Here, Faith Douglas, founder of Forest Bathing UK and author of The Nature Remedy, writes about her personal journey of discovery.
I
was lucky enough to grow up in the leafy town of Harrogate and the pine woods were a short bike ride away. My friends and I could often be found running through the woods, rolling down the grassy hills and climbing and swinging from the trees. It was the perfect playground and classroom, and I believe this helped cement my love of all things nature.
Photograph by Charlotte Graham
41 Trees 2021.indd 41
www.jimmysfarm.com
27/05/2021 21:31
Nat u re
“Over many years, my work has convinced me of one fundamental truth; without nature we wouldn’t survive, yet without us nature would thrive. This belief has become my mantra and it’s an approach that I think everyone should take the time to consider deeply.” The Nature Remedy I started my career in nursing, and I spent my days and nights caring for others with challenging and complex needs. Eventually, after thirteen years, this took its toll on my own health and I found myself struggling with juggling work, a young family and my own wellbeing. I often turned to walking, and just being in nearby fields and woodland after a tough shift at work and my garden quickly became my sanctuary. The turning point for me came when I changed my career and followed my passion, which was plants. I had a small garden at the time, but it was jammed full of weird and wonderful plants all having one thing in common; they all had medicinal uses. I was fascinated with our relationship with plants and the health benefits that came from using them medicinally. I started working with plants and people at a local charity called Horticap, and from here things just snowballed. My family moved out of Harrogate and into a small village near
Bedale and I ended up with the job of curator at Thorp Perrow Arboretum, which was within a stone’s throw of the village where we lived. I’d been at my role in the arboretum for some time, when somewhere along the way I found myself in an abusive relationship. I was struggling to cope with everything that was happening to me and appearing ‘normal’, as many people do in these situations, was becoming increasingly difficult. Once again, I turned to nature for comfort and I started practising mindfulness in nature as a way of coping. I truly believe that nature helped me to gain the courage I needed to get out of the damaging situation I had found myself in and rebuild my life…along the way I had found myself thrown into using the natural world as my own medicine. I soon realised that what I’d been doing could help others too. I now run mindfulness workshops and forest bathing walks, and work with many different people, young
and old, and I get to witness first-hand the amazing ability that nature has to restore and rejuvenate all of us. Science tells us that nature is good for all of us in so many ways; we have studies upon studies telling us that we find physical relief and restoration from simply being outside. Our blood pressure drops, our heart rate slows, pain can be reduced, and our immune systems are boosted and enhanced. Mentally, we feel calmer, stress is reduced, we sleep better, things become clearer, and we feel more joyful and happier. Children are found to feel happier, calmer and have greater concentration as well as feel relief from their worries and hurries. My feeling is that, whilst it’s great to have these studies to ‘prove’, we also have a knowing; we know what supports us, we know what helps us feel good, feel better, feel happier. When we need space or to simply just ‘be’, we can simply go outside and allow Mother Nature to take hold of us and do what she’s so good at.
Faith’s everyday tips: Go out This could be a walk in the park or the walk to work; it could just mean stepping outside your front door or opening your window to breathe. Simply allow yourself to ‘be’ in nature.
Be mindful Switch on your senses, listen and look at your surroundings. Let everything else melt away and feel that relief – even if just for a moment.
Say thank you To have gratitude for something to which we are so deeply connected brings an appreciation for all life like no other.
Have faith in nature and make it a habit… www.jimmysfarm.com
Trees 2021.indd 42
42 27/05/2021 21:31
Nat u re
What is forest bathing?
Translated from the Japanese ‘Shinrin-yoku’, forest bathing involves spending quality time under the canopy of trees to absorb their health and wellbeing benefits. It can be as simple as walking and connecting with the nature around you, or for something more structured, you can take part in sessions with trained therapists.
Faith Douglas, The Nature Remedy, published by Harper Collins www.faithdouglas.co.uk
Trees give off phytoncides or ‘essential oils’, which protect them from germs and parasites. When we breath these in, they can produce an array of benefits including boosting immunity, reducing inflammation, lowering stress and blood glucose levels, and enhancing mood and sleep.
Did you know?
You can try forest bathing in the Wonder Woods at Jimmy’s Farm & Wildlife Park! Our woodland truly is a wonder that enables you to experience native plants and animals, a time walk, den building and a relaxing coffee break. It’s the perfect place to spot many native plants and animals and, if you’re extremely lucky, you may even see a rare dormouse or stag beetles.
43 Trees 2021.indd 43
www.jimmysfarm.com
28/05/2021 01:27
C ha ri ty
Help Transform Your Local Children’s Department
A
s a family man, becoming ambassador of The Children’s Appeal at Ipswich Hospital was an easy decision for Jimmy. The Children’s Appeal – to completely redevelop every centimetre of the Children’s Department – is now in its third year and Jimmy has been passionately supporting it since the beginning. Jimmy explains, “When I met the staff who work in the Children’s Department, it was clear how dedicated they are and I know the team do outstanding work every day, but the facilities were really tired and gloomy. It made me realise how important it is to
have a child-friendly environment for the young people and their families.” Despite a huge increase in demand, the department has hardly changed since the 1980s so an overhaul is long overdue. Every year almost 40,000 children and young people are cared for at Ipswich Hospital and around 10 per cent are admitted as inpatients. The multi-million-pound project has now been granted planning permission, which is a giant leap forward, but Colchester & Ipswich Hospitals Charity, which runs the appeal, still needs your help to raise the final £160,000.
Before
Did you know? If every reader of The Good Life donated £5, then they would hit the target in no time! Please donate £5 or an amount of your choice by visiting www.colchesteripswichcharity.org.uk to help transform your local Children’s Department.
“We already provide exceptional care and so an exceptional and fit for purpose environment that’s modern, light and airy to match can’t come soon enough.”
“We are going to create a more homely environment, so our young patients feel less anxious.”
Lauren Filby, Consultant, Child Health
Kate Stockton, Children’s Matron Ipswich
www.jimmysfarm.com
Charity 2021.indd 44
After
44 27/05/2021 21:34
Get stomping...
Welly Walk
Sunday 26 September @ Jimmy’s Farm Adult £10.00 | Child £7.50 Family from £30.00 Includes free entry to Jimmy’s Farm & Wildlife Park Fundraising target Adult £25.00 | Family £50.00
Register online Scan to register
0300 770 1369
colchesteripswichcharity.org.uk Registered Charity No. 1048827
Ads.indd 45
27/05/2021 22:05
A ni m a ls
Zoo-per heroes!
We catch up with vet Chris Burton (BVN/BVS/MRCVS) at Stowe Veterinary Group in Suffolk to ask him about his work looking after the animals here at Jimmy’s Farm & Wildlife Park.
Tell us a bit about your practice. Stowe Veterinary Group is a large mixed practice based in Stowmarket. We offer veterinary services for all domestic species and those not so domestic. What services do you provide for the animals at Jimmy’s Farm & Wildlife Park? I joined Stowe Vets in 2013 and started helping look after the various species Jimmy’s Farm had back then. As time has gone on, the farm has become a zoo and wildlife park and the number and type of species has grown hugely. I have steadily taken over the responsibility for managing all the veterinary services we provide. I never expected that being a zoo
www.jimmysfarm.com
Vets 2021.indd 46
vet would be on the cards when I graduated from vet school. We undertake a routine veterinary visit every two weeks, which can range from any acute problems to pregnancy scanning and planning future procedures. We also provide a 24/7 emergency service for when things don’t quite go to plan. Which are your favourite animals to work with – domestic and wild? I genuinely enjoy working with all the domestic species which is why I work at a mixed practice. The variety it brings is both challenging and rewarding and I am as happy operating on small animals as I am X-raying horses’ feet! My favourite surgery is a sheep caesarean – if you
get it right, you can transform a bad situation into a good one and you are often rewarded with a couple of lovely lambs at the end. The undoubted stars of the show for me at work are the tapirs, Tiptap and Teddy. They are an absolute pleasure to work with and are both just lovely animals, and now they’ve produced a baby tapir! What more could you want? What do you think makes a great vet? There is a big difference between the demands of large and small animal vets. The best large animal vets need to be adaptable, be able to think on their feet and be mentally determined. Emergency callouts in the middle of a cold winter’s night are a real tester!
46 27/05/2021 21:37
A ni m a ls
3 things you didn’t know about Chris’s patients • Female wallabies can have four baby joeys growing at the same time – two growing inside, one in her pouch and one living outside but still getting milk from mum! • If you rub tapir Tiptap or Teddy’s chins, they will roll over onto their backs – useful for examinations and Tobias is already doing the same! • If it wants to, a wallaby can jump over your head – when trying to catch one of the male wallabies a few years ago, he managed to jump over my head through a doorway. Needless to say, we didn’t catch him that day!
47 Vets 2021.indd 47
www.jimmysfarm.com
27/05/2021 21:37
A ni m a ls
welfare of the animal is always the primary objective. For example, during the filming of the TV show last year we had to put Fernando the capybara to sleep as he had a tumour. It was extremely sad for everyone involved but he had been intermittently struggling for a while and would only have gone downhill from where he was. I take solace in the fact he had a good long life with plenty of good grub around which is a capybara’s favourite thing.
What do you love most about your job? Every now and then you get a really tricky or challenging case that pushes you a bit further than usual. I love it when you can navigate a way through and get a good result. I really enjoy the feeling of knowing the animal is well and having done a good job along the way. And least? Easy question – getting constantly covered in various bodily fluids. Early morning soakings are the worst! What are some of the most unusual cases that you’ve had to deal with at Jimmy’s Farm & Wildlife Park? A couple of years ago, Dolph, the male reindeer, had a strange growth on the end of one of his antlers. These types of growth usually only occur in castrated males, so it was strange that he was growing one as an entire male. After monitoring the growth, we decided it needed to
www.jimmysfarm.com
Vets 2021.indd 48
be removed. We gave him a general anaesthetic and used some special wire to cut through and remove it. The antler then had to be cauterised afterwards without damaging the rest of the velvet covering. The whole procedure was very tricky but a couple of hours after we started, we had him back up on his feet and he’s never looked back. Without this procedure, he would have become very ill from the ensuing infection and might not have survived. Viewers of Spring at Jimmy’s Farm and Autumn at Jimmy’s Farm will have seen you having to deal with some sad situations, such as saying goodbye to our much-loved animals. How do you feel about that part of the job – does it get any easier? It’s never a nice part of the job and gets harder the longer you have known the animal, but we are always doing it with the best interests of the animal at the forefront of our decisions. The
What’s your most memorable moment as a vet? A few years ago, I attended a horse that had somehow managed to fall down into a very deep ditch and got himself stuck in the worst position you could imagine – back half underwater and front half wedged behind a tree. It seemed impossible to get him out. Over the next four hours, together with three fire crews, a specialist Unimog lifting vehicle and an excavator moving mountains of earth, we got him out and he is still going strong today. When he stood up, the sound of 20 firefighters cheering was a sight to behold. Job satisfaction at its best! What advice would you give a child who’s thinking about a career as a vet? Go for it – you will need to work extra-hard at school and get as much experience with different species as you can – and, if you want it bad enough, you’ll get a place at Vet School. www.stowevets.co.uk
48 27/05/2021 21:38
Ads.indd 49
27/05/2021 23:25
Fo o d
www.jimmysfarm.com
Pizza - JF Spring & Summer 2021.indd 50
50 27/05/2021 21:40
Fo o d
What’s cooking?
Check out these delicious recipes from our new catering manager, Martin – perfect for a summer’s day!
Quick & Easy Pizza Ingredients 200g strong white flour 7g or 1 sachet of dried yeast 125ml warm water 2 teaspoons sea salt 100ml passata Pinch of oregano (dried or fresh) 100g mozzarella Method • In a large bowl mix together the flour, 1 teaspoon of sea salt and dried yeast. • Add the warm water and mix to form a sticky dough. • Knead onto a generously floured surface, until the dough is no longer sticky. • Leave to rest for 1.5 hours covered with a tea towel (or until doubled in size), preheat your oven to 200°C. • Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface. You can either hand stretch the dough or use a
Lemon Posset with Rhubarb Compote rolling pin to get the base to your desired shape. Make sure the dough is no thicker than 1cm. • Lay the base onto a greased and floured tray or baking sheet, pour the passata into the middle of the base and spread around with the bottom of a ladle or large flat spoon in circular movements leaving a 1cm edge for the crust. • Sprinkle the oregano and 1 teaspoon of sea salt over the sauce. • Add the mozzarella evenly over the sauce, and place in the oven for 10-12 minutes (alternatively if you have a pizza oven, once it is hot the pizza should cook in 4-5 minutes). NOTE: You can add whichever toppings you like but try to avoid ingredients that are too wet and do not overload the pizza – otherwise, the base will not cook.
(Makes 4 portions) Ingredients For the posset: 600ml double cream 150g castor sugar Zest and juice of 3 lemons For the rhubarb compote: 400g rhubarb 100g castor sugar 1cm ginger Method • Heat the cream, sugar, lemon juice and lemon zest on a medium heat to a gentle boil. • Pass through a sieve and leave to stand for 10 minutes. • Once settled, the posset mixture will have a foam on top – for a better finish skim off the foam and discard. • Pour evenly into your desired serving dish or glass and chill for 3-4 hours (overnight is preferred).
51 Pizza - JF Spring & Summer 2021.indd 51
• Trim the ends from the rhubarb and cut into 2cm pieces. • Peel and finely chop or grate the ginger. In a pot, mix the rhubarb, ginger and castor sugar. • Place on a medium heat until the rhubarb has softened, leave to cool. • Once you are ready to serve, place a spoonful of the chilled compote onto the posset. NOTE: I find serving with Chantilly cream or a clotted cream icecream really helps to cut through the sharpness and richness of the lemon and rhubarb.
www.jimmysfarm.com
27/05/2021 21:40
Fo o d
Amazing asparagus Nutritionist Jenna Hope discusses why we should all eat asparagus and how to harness those spears of goodness for a taste that hits the spot. www.jimmysfarm.com
Asparagus - JF Spring & Summer 2021.indd 52
52 27/05/2021 21:41
Fo o d
A
sparagus is a nutrient dense food which can be easily incorporated into your diet. It’s rich in numerous micronutrients such as folate, potassium and Vitamins A, C and K, all of which have key roles to support the physiological demands of the body. Folate (also known as Vitamin B9) is an important nutrient which is required to support the production and function of DNA. As a result, it’s particularly essential for pregnant women or females who are looking to get pregnant. Folate is the natural and active form of folic acid. Folic acid is the synthetic form of folate found in supplements and fortified foods. It’s far more available to the body in the form of folate and therefore dietary sources such as asparagus are really key. Potassium plays an important role in maintaining fluid balance and reducing blood pressure. High blood pressure
can contribute to the risks of cardiovascular disease. Additionally, being aware of your salt intake, stress, sleep and lifestyle habits can also help to moderate the risks of cardiovascular disease. Vitamins A and C are well understood for their important role in the immune system. Ensuring a healthy immune function is more important now than ever before and, while diet alone won’t necessarily protect you from viruses, it may help to manage the way in which your body deals with them. Vitamin A plays a role in reducing inflammation to support immunity alongside vision too. Vitamin C is key for supporting white blood cell production (these are the blood cells which are involved in attacking unwanted pathogens). Asparagus is also a source of Vitamin K which is required in supporting bone health and blood clotting.
Roasted Vegetable Salad Ingredients 1 aubergine 80g mushrooms 80g asparagus 1 tbsp olive oil 1 clove of garlic (crushed) Pinch of salt 75g pre-cooked lentils 1 handful of rocket (or spinach) 1 handful of cherry tomatoes Juice of 1/2 lemon Olive oil for dressing Method 1. Preheat oven to 180˚C. 2. Slice the aubergine into rounds and the mushrooms into halves. Wash the asparagus
jennahopenutrition.com
and add them to a bowl with the mushrooms and aubergine. Drizzle in olive oil, add the garlic and salt, mix until all the veg are coated. Then pour them onto a lined baking tray and roast in the oven for 30 minutes. 3. Once the vegetables are soft. slice the cherry tomatoes in half and toss them in a bowl with the lentils, rocket, aubergine and mushrooms. Squeeze over the lemon, extra olive oil for dressing and transfer to a plate for serving. Tip: Add chicken, tofu or hummus for extra protein!
53 Asparagus - JF Spring & Summer 2021.indd 53
What’s more is that asparagus is a really great way to increase your fibre intake and can be an added source of protein for those on a plant-based diet too - 90g of asparagus contains around 2g of fibre and 2g of protein. Fibre is essential for supporting healthy gut bacteria; the UK guidelines recommend consuming 30g of fibre per day, although, on average adults in the UK are consuming 18g per day and therefore adding a few extra portions of vegetables such as asparagus can make a big difference! Evidently, there are a number of nutrients within asparagus and therefore steaming would be a great way to obtain many of these. However, remember taste is important too! Roasting asparagus and adding to a roasted root vegetable salad with a tahini dressing is delicious. You can also try adding to stews and curries or turning them into soup.
www.jimmysfarm.com
27/05/2021 21:42
Fo o d
10
IN NUMBERS
5,000
Asparagus appeared in an Egyptian frieze about 5,000 ago, with Queen Nefertiti rumoured to love it.
British asparagus is the Usain Bolt of the vegetable world and can grow up to 10cm in one day!
15
5 www.jimmysfarm.com
Asparagus - JF Spring & Summer 2021.indd 54
3
Asparagus comes in three colours. White asparagus stalks are picked before they peek through the soil so have no chlorophyl to make them green. Purple asparagus gets it colour from anthocyanin, a pigment and antioxidant found in berries and other vegetables.
Asparagus was first cultivated by the Romans and grew in popularity in Europe in the 16th century. There are five main species of asparagus, which comes from the Lily family (Liliceae) along with the onion, garlic and tulip.
54 27/05/2021 21:43
Re-Cycle
e l c y c i b r u o y day! e to Donate your used bik
Our mission is to send bikes to rural communities in Africa. Those not suitable maybe stripped down for spare parts or refurbished and sold to the community here in the UK. For more information about our bike drop off locations and the charity please visit re-cycle.org or call us on 01206 617865
Help change lives and protect the planet Re-Cycle (Bikes to Africa) Unit 8, The Grove Estate, Wormingford, Colchester Essex, CO6 3AJ Registered Charity No: 1063570 - Company Number 03337853. 2021 05 Jimmys Farm Spa.qxp_133mm h x 93mm w 18/05/2021 13:26 Page
Thomas Mills High School Framlingham A popular, high performing school offering a high quality free education to boys and girls from an extensive area of Suffolk
“Thomas Mills is an outstanding school” (Ofsted)
Relax, Revitalise, Restore Spa experiences from just
£20.00 per person
Ufford Park Spa offers a range of experiences; whether you visit alone or with family and friends, we can assure you of a warm welcome, and a comfortable and friendly atmosphere that provides the perfect environment to relax and unwind.
- Exam results significantly exceed national standards - Extensive extra-curricular activities - Successful Sixth Form with a wide range of courses - Excellent record of Oxbridge and Russell Group university entries - A strong emphasis on pastoral care and guidance To download a copy of our prospectus please visit www.thomasmills.suffolk.sch.uk or to arrange a tour of the school please call 01728 723493
Our Thermal Suite Spa uses a variety of heat and cooling experiences aimed to induce deep relaxation. All therapists are trained to deliver our full range of treatments.
t
01394 386871
w www.uffordpark.co.uk
Thomas Mills High School, Saxtead Road, Framlingham, IP13 9HE
Yarmouth Road | Woodbridge | Suffolk | IP12 1QW
Ads.indd 55
27/05/2021 22:10
Fo o d
e h t e Tastd Life Goo
Feeling peckish? There’s so much to do and see at Jimmy’s Farm & Wildlife Park, you’re bound to get an appetite – tuck into these mouth-watering dishes and keep the hunger at bay!
Hot food is available from The Barn Restaurant & Coffee Shop while you can pick up takeaways and refreshments from The Snack Shack, Hair of the Hog and Field Kitchen.
We are thrilled to be re-opening the Farm Shop here at Jimmy’s Farm & Wildlife Park!
THE FARM SHOP www.jimmysfarm.com
Jimmy's food 2021.indd 58
It will offer a range of groceries, along with carefully selected beers and wines, and of course some gifts and souvenirs to take away and remember your day with us. We’re really looking forward to being able to open the doors and welcome our wonderful customers into the Farm Shop once again.
56 28/05/2021 10:52
chartered accountants
TRANSFORMING YOUR LIFE
Top quality part-time performing arts training for 4 -18-year-olds.
Weekly classes in Dancing, Acting & Singing!
is a firm of Chartered Accountants based in Ipswich, offering accounts, audit, taxation and business advisory and support services to a wide range of businesses and individuals.
01473 216 994
admin@ballams.co.uk
Theatretrain Colchester
Theatretrain Ipswich
www.theatretrain.co.uk/colchester
www.theatretrain.co.uk/ipswich
colchester@theatretrain.co.uk 07712528419
ipswich@theatretrain.co.uk 07525480962
COVID-19: At Theatretrain we take the safety of our young pupils and their families seriously. Class numbers are calculated using a Dynamic Risk Assessment and our classes will remain Covid-19 Secure.
ballams.co.uk Patrons Sir Derek Jacobi KBE - Catherine Tate - Lucy Davis - Alfred Molina
Ads.indd 57
27/05/2021 22:52
We d d i ngs
A WEDDING DAY LIKE NO OTHER Celebrate in style with a one-of-a-kind wedding tailored especially for you.
Our new additions include: • A purpose-built private bar in our celebration tent • A stunning bridal suite to get ready for your big day • A newly licenced bandstand in the wildlife park to say ‘I do’ with pelicans and capybaras as your witnesses!
Top 100 places to get married in the world.
www.jimmysfarm.com
Jimmy's Farm Weddings 2020.indd 58
H
ere at Jimmy’s Farm & Wildlife Park, we’re busy planning to make our weddings the best ever and are taking bookings for 2021, 2022 and 2023! On your wedding day, you deserve everything you dream of and Jimmy’s Farm & Wildlife Park is just that… unique, relaxed and beautifully rural. Whether you’re a boho couple, country loving, looking for something simple and traditional or wanting your own individual style, we have the perfect wedding for you. Jimmy’s Farm & Wildlife Park is a stunning venue that provides the perfect canvas to create a day that’s uniquely personal to you both. Your guests will enjoy the best of what the Suffolk countryside has to offer, beautiful views and excellent local food.
58 28/05/2021 02:19
We d d i ngs Your day, your way
On your wedding day, you will be able to make the most of our stunning facilities and surroundings, full of countryside charm and with great transport links from Essex and Suffolk. Whatever the theme, we can help you. From bohemian to countrystyle to weddings with farm animals as guests, with the help of your own dedicated wedding planner, you can be assured of the best personal service and attention to detail while catering for your every need. Awaiting your arrival is our dreamy celebration tent – the only one of its kind in East Anglia – exclusive to you and up to 200 guests for outdoor ceremonies, photos, drinks, receptions and fun and games. Nestled in our newly landscaped herb garden, it provides the perfect setting for those must-have outdoor shots.
For the precious moment of making your vows binding, our charming, hand-built eco-roundhouse is where you will sign the marriage register, while your guests make a special connection with nature in the stunning surroundings. Whatever your desire, we will do everything possible to make your dream day come true; we’re extremely flexible, highly creative and have multiple licensed marriage areas on site. Even pets are allowed to attend! Fabulous food, rustic charm
Our lovingly restored, 18th century barn restaurant offers an airy and contemporary setting and excellent guest service for your wedding breakfast and evening entertainment. It accommodates up to 120 guests for a sit-down meal or as many as 200 guests for those seeking a more informal celebration. We’re incredibly passionate about the food we produce on the farm, from locally sourced, sustainable ingredients to our very own traditionally reared, free range. rare breed meat and seasonal farm-grown fruit and vegetables giving you complete flexibility when putting together your perfect menu.
Jimmy's Farm Weddings 2020.indd 59
The wild side
Against the beautiful backdrop of an old-fashioned working farm, you can make your day even more unforgettable with a romantic stroll through beautiful, ancient woodland and an exclusive chance to meet our farm and wildlife park animals. Take a trek through our butterfly, tropical bird and reptile houses or make friends with our mischievous meerkats. Led by our fully trained animal keepers, your guests can get up close and personal with an amazing animal encounter.
E HAY BARN
1 - TH NEW FOR 202
Party away
With a licence until midnight, get the party started with your chosen band or DJ. Top the night off with a firework display specially devised just for Jimmy’s Farm & Wildlife Park – low-level noise for our animals but just as spectacular!
A private dressing room for you and your bridesmaids to prepare for the day ahead. Hair, make-up and Prosecco before the festivities begin!
Five-star glamping
And for those wanting to go the full hog and stay overnight in the countryside, why not book a wedding glamping style? For the complete country wedding experience on site at Jimmy’s Farm & Wildlife Park, you can have your very own Bell Tent Village providing luxurious accommodation for the bride and groom, family and guests – perfect for keeping the wedding party in one place with no need for late night taxis to hotels.
If you’re looking for more
traditional accommodation, there are a number of hotels, B&Bs and self-catering apartments close to Jimmy’s Farm & Wildlife Park. For more information, ideas and inspiration head over to our Instagram page @Jimmys_Farm_Weddings
SUPPLIERS Venue: Jimmy’s Farm & Wildlife Park www.jimmysfarm.com/weddings/ Wedding planner: Natalie Solanke Weddings www.nataliesolankeweddings.co.uk Celebration Tent: Stretch Tent Productions www.stretchtentproductions.org Tent Village: Bumble Bell Tents www.bumblebell.co.uk Luxury Toilet Facility Hire: Hero www.herositesolutions.co.uk
For a tour, email Natalie Solanke Weddings on weddings@ jimmysfarm.com
59
www.jimmysfarm.com
28/05/2021 02:20
Te a m B u i ld i ng
Go wild with corporate & team building days It’s not just our weddings that are special – our corporate and team building events are truly wild and unique. Move away from mundane, square rooms and experience a day with a real difference. Choose from our list of activities: • Sausage Making • Animal Enrichment & Training • Battlefield Live • Treasure Quest There’s space to host 10 to 200 delegates, excellent fresh food and produce straight from our farm, free parking and great regional travel links. We have worked with companies from all industries and of all sizes and can guarantee a smooth, professional and educational visit for all. Jimmy’s Farm & Wildlife Park is the vision of TV presenter Jimmy Doherty and his wife, Michaela;
www.jimmysfarm.com
Jimmy's Farm Weddings 2020.indd 60
it has taken years of dedication and hard work to achieve their dream. Millions across the nation followed the documentary which saw them turn a derelict farm into a thriving business. Now they want to share, inspire and offer space for your team to create, communicate and grow. We have the most unique corporate team building days in the region!
Photography by Twenty-Six Films
Proud to be partnered with Team Building With BITE, we have created fantastic packages enabling team building events harnessing the practical, social and communitive skills within your workforce. Either working together or in competition against each other, you will get the chance to create enrichment items for our animals. Once the build is complete, there is no better sense of achievement than
having the opportunity to watch the results as your creations are put to the test. Our team building events really do stand out from the crowd and are ideal for company fun days or combining with conferences and meetings, and we can cater for full day events, half days or just two-hour activities. It is a fantastic opportunity
to observe your team’s communication and organisation skills, while challenging their team dynamics in a one-of-akind environment. The course promises to be informative, constructive and most of all fun. Only at Jimmy’s Farm & Wildlife Park can you really let your team go wild. To discuss our packages, contact Natalie on enquiries@ jimmysfarm.com
60 28/05/2021 02:21
™
2in1 Car Booster Travel Seat
New Year Offer £10 off
NORMAL PRICE £49.99
Buy your’s today at:
www.cargoseat.com Register for
£10 off
Perfect for daily use and sleep overs Available in 4 fantastic colours Huge 10 litre storage case
The CarGoSeat complies with all UK and EU crash test requirements and meets ECE R44/04
Recycling service after use
Ads.indd 61 Jimmy-Farm-advert.indd 1
28/05/2021 10:30 28/05/2021 10:20
Doubluen the f Hear what you see with GeoSafari Kidnoculars Extreme. Magnify your world with these awesome 3x no-focus binoculars and amplify the nature around you with a built-in microphone. Colourful, lightweight and durable, these all-in-one binoculars are perfectly sized for young explorers and feature a breakaway strap for safety. (Age 5-9), £22.50. www.learningresources.co.uk
S ho p o nli ne
Garden Vault
Check out our hand-picked selection of leisure, fashion and shopping essentials for enjoying the garden this summer.
Attract wildlife into your garden with this wonderful collection of wildflowers developed by conservation scientists. The Seedball Wildlife Collection comprises six boxes with seeds for bees, birds, bats, butterflies, beetles and hedgehogs. Each tin contains 20 seedballs, each with around 30 seeds encased in a protective ball of clay, compost and chilli, enough to cover 1 sq m in a garden bed or 3-5 medium-sized pots. Also great for window boxes and other small growing spaces. £14.95. www.annabeljames.co.uk
Make a splash
Get the paddling pool out and explore an incredible selection of wildlife roaming the lands and swimming the seas. Find your favourites in Frugi’s India-inspired swimwear collection made from OEKO-TEX approved recycled materials. Little Sun Safe Suits provide sun protection factor UPF 50+, perfect to help protect sensitive skin from harmful sun rays. Available in 3 designs for boys and girls (0-10 years). Baby, £25, Toddler £26, Kids £27. www.welovefrugi.com
g n i h t ild
W
Go exploring
HOW DOES YOUR GARDEN
GROW?
The Mini Growing Kit comes with everything you need to grow three plants with a choice of herbs or edible flowers, from coriander, nasturtiums and calendula marigold to lemon grass or purple basil. Each box contains three beautiful compostable cups and clear, recyclable plastic lids, three wooden spoon markers, three packets of seeds, six coconut compost discs and a bottle top waterer. £14.50. www.TheCropClub.com
Den days www.jimmysfarm.com
Jimmy's Farm Shopping pages.indd 10
62
This eco-friendly cardboard Microscope kit is perfect for kids who love to get outside and explore nature. The fully functioning microscope is easy to assemble using slot together techniques – there’s no glue, no mess, no fuss and everything you need is provided in the kit. Awesome for examining garden mini-beasts, leaves, feathers and more – you’ll be amazed at what you can see with the 30x magnification. £16.99 www.buildyourownkits.com
This whimsical Cottage Garden Den Kit will capture children’s creative imaginations, encourage resourcefulness and innovation, provide escape and sanctuary, and most of all supply hours of simple fun. Surround yourself with the charm and vibrancy of a cottage garden in summertime. Use your skill and ingenuity to create a perfectly purple shelter, adorn it with the natural hues of your cotton bunting and gaze at the world through your kaleidoscope to see colours as vivid as your own imagination. £45 thedenkitco.com
27/05/2021 20:52
EvEr wantEd to go sElf-sufficiEnt? HErE’s your cHancE to givE it a try!
FO
IM DIS 10 MY C % ’S OU FA N RM T k an reen B Give G s to buy le RE 2 hayba n pizzas ia AD vegetar ER S
ly uirrel is the on Your Sq d jelly ld Which ee the wor ‘n’ Seaw risingly fruit in on s ed rp its se h it sells su t. w ide? marke well at the outs er: haybale 1 sw n ke A Ta ank rries reen B Strawbe from G
uldn’t You co rself u bring yo hter g to slau g. your pi
Fun, easy to play, award-winning family boardgame Use your wheelbarrow to move around the board to collect fruit, vegetables, pigs and chickens. The winner is the first to fill their garden and allotment. Seems simple. It is. But the ‘Green Fingers’ cards turn up unexpected twists and turns... So you’ll have to protect your chickens from foxes, sell your crops and livestock at the village fair and avoid drought, bird flu, and your animals escaping. Now, are you ready for ‘The Good Life’?
RJ
*
ovEr 80 woodEn ov Playing PiEcEs
“Don’t encourage kids to become greedy bankers with Monopoly - keep them green with this Good Life game”
www.thegoodlifegame.co.uk Enter ‘fox’ at the checkout, to qualify for
your 10% discount.
THE
GOOD
£26.95 INC. FREE P&P
LIFE
ALLINGHAM GAMES
www.thegoodlifegame.co.uk
Make Suffolk Carpet Weavers your FIRST CHOICE FOR FLOORING A local business with local values Over 30 years experience Free measuring service Large two-storey showroom All types and styles of flooring and carpets Bespoke options available Rug edging Come in to see the team All these photos are our work
We Make The Seats, You Make The Memories
@Suffolk Carpet Weavers Ltd @suffolkcarpet
The only bespoke swing and bench maker licensed by the RHS
sittingspiritually.co.uk 01297 443084 ® The Royal Horticultural Society. The Royal Horticultural Society, and its logo, are trade marks of The Royal Horticultural Society (Registered Charity No 222879/SC038262) and used under licence from RHS Enterprises Limited.
Jimmy Farm Qtr Page.indd 1 Ads.indd 63
01394 610202 01394 610202 www.suffolkcarpetweavers.com www.suffolkcarpetweavers.com
UnitUnit 5 , Bridge Business Park, 5 Bridge Business Park, Top Top Street, Martlesham IP12 4RB Street, Martlesham, IP12 4RB
18/05/2021 12:42 27/05/2021 22:13
S ho p ne a rby
Quinn Scatter Cushion in Teal
Revive your soft furnishings with a piece of art for your sofa or bed. These elegant peacock design cushions on soft, velvetfeel fabric are tailored with beautiful contrast fringing. Dimensions: H45 x W45 cm Previous Price £32 Sale Price £27
Shopping
‘Monty’ Indoor/ Outdoor Rug This black and cream rug with tribal design, is suited to both an indoor and outdoor living area, so perfect for the garden or patio during the summer months. Available in a range of sizes, other colours and patterns. Priced here in 80x150 cm. Previous Price £49.95 Sale Price £44.95
Deco Jar
This vibrant sun-yellow jar with Zebra artwork makes for a unique eyecatching piece and is both ornamental and functional with the ability to store away treasures, or to double as a vase when removing the lid.
W21 x D21 x H26 cm Previous Price £99 Sale Price £79
Established in 1886, Hatfields remains a family owned local retailer, providing quality furniture, flooring and home accessories
Jimmy's Farm Shopping pages.indd 12
Hatfields is just 21 miles away from Jimmy’s Farm… Monday to Saturday, 10am – 5pm Sundays, 10.30am – 4.30pm Bank Holidays, 10am – 5pm Hatfields Home Furnishers, Peartree Road, Stanway, Colchester, Essex CO3 0LA www.hatfields.com
The simplicity of antique brass wire wrapped around a selfcoloured frame ensure this lantern is just as inviting when lit with a candle or left unlit. Create an ambient setting by displaying in multiples. Large (W23 x D23 x H36 cm) Previous Price £55 Sale Price £45 Small (W20 x D20 x H22 cm) Previous Price £39 Sale Price £32
(Chairs – W71 x D84 x H89 cm, Footstools – W64 x D64 x H42 cm, Table W50 x D50 x H45 cm) Priced here in 80x150 cm. Previous Price £1345 Sale Price £939
www.jimmysfarm.com
Seek shade from the scorching sun or shelter from summer showers with these stylish parasols. Tailored to not only complement Hatfields garden sets but also for standalone use. Priced as 2.5 metre diameter, also available in 3 metre. Previous Price £139 Sale Price £89
Round Antique Brass Lantern
‘Bali’ Reclining Garden Set
Relax and unwind with this serene Dual Reclining Set – the perfect place to soak up the sunshine in comfort! Made using weather-proof aluminium frames and hand-woven weave in Slate Grey, adding an extra touch of style.
‘Riviera’ Deluxe Crank Parasol
Black & Gold Wall Clock
64
Style up your wall with this stunning matt black clock with gold detail. The simple features of this clock help to make it a timeless time piece for any home. Also available in matt grey and matt white. W50 x D4 x H50 cm. Previous Price £35 Sale Price £29
28/05/2021 10:10
2021 R A L U C A T C E SP
Valencia Corner Garden Set.
e l a s
Make the most of outdoor entertaining this year! Sunny days and good weather are now upon us, which means we’ll all be able to spend a lot more time in our outdoor living spaces. With this in mind, we have a large display of garden furniture to inspire you and create the garden you’ve been dreaming of. Choose from a large selection of different sizes and finishes, from formal dining and sofa groups, through to relaxing day beds and corner sets. Our ever popular garden collections are known to sell quickly each year, so don’t delay if you are looking to update your garden for 2021. All our garden sets are In-Stock for quick
Felix Sofa
TOP BRANDS with Huge discounts & offers!
delivery or immediate collection. Hurry, whilst stocks last. Our spectacular 2021 sale is now on and in-store you’ll discover a vast choice, with a style for every room. We also have the largest selection of rugs in Colchester, together with a huge range of carpets, smooth and real wood floors. With over 60 stunning sofa groups, 20 stylish dining sets, lots of cabinet pieces and multiple beds and mattresses to test out for that perfect night’s sleep, there is something for every
home at Hatfields. Plus, there are hundreds of occasional items and accessories to bring those beautiful finishing touches to your home. We’re delighted for our stores to be open once again and have thoroughly enjoyed welcoming customers back into our showrooms in recent weeks. Hatfields is open 7 days a week, with plenty of free parking on site, and friendly knowledgeable sales advisors to assist you with your choices. We hope to see you in-store soon.
Lola Bed
FINANCE Options Available
Street Graph Rug
ALL ITEMS In-Store Reduced!
Up to 50% OFF Ex-Display Furniture
Peartree Road, Stanway, Colchester, Essex CO3 0LA
01206 765444 www.hatfields.com
Jimmys Farm Ads.indd 65 Magazine Summer 2021_A4.indd 1
Tag us on Social Media #HatfieldsAtHome
27/05/202122:14 15:46 27/05/2021
I nf o rm at i o n
Map @jimmysfarmhq @jimmysfarmhq follow jimmy too: @jimmysfarm @jimmysfarmhq
Dogs Welcome
www.jimmysfarm.com
Map 2021.indd 66
Pig (12cm)
£4.95
66 27/05/2021 21:50
JF mag ad June 21 print.pdf
1
17/05/2021
21:38
C
M
Y
We are still enrolling
CM
MY
CY
CMY
K
Apply online now for September Accounting
Hospitality and Catering
Applied Science
Information Technology
Apprenticeships Art and Design Business Construction Early Years Electrical Installation
Engineering Extended Learning English and Maths GCSEs Football Academy Hair and Beauty Health and Social Care
www.chelmsford.ac.uk Ads.indd 67
Media Public Services Retail and Warehousing Sport Teacher Training Travel and Tourism
01245 265611 27/05/2021 22:15
REGISTER FOR ONE OF OUR OPEN MORNINGS FOR CHILDREN FROM 2 ½ TO 11 YEARS OLD FEATURED IN THE GOOD SCHOOLS GUIDE
RATED 'EXCELLENT' IN ALL AREAS IN LAST TWO ISI INSPECTIONS.
www.littlegarth.essex.sch.uk 01206 262 332 Horkesley Park, Nayland, Colchester, CO6 4JR
Ads.indd 68
27/05/2021 22:15