ISSN 2044–7965
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ISSUE 19 APRIL 2012
magazine
LIFESTYLE
FOOD
HISTORY
EVENTS
LOCAL LIFE
COVER IMAGE by Ian Ward
editorial 01553 601201
editor@klmagazine.co.uk
Eric Secker Ian Ward Bel Greenwood Alex Dallas David Learner Graham Murray Ann Weaver Christine Glass Theresa Kelly Michael Middleton
advertising 01553 601201 sales@klmagazine.co.uk
Laura Murray Grant Murray Nicky Secker-Bligh Becky Drew KL magazine cannot accept responsibility for unsolicited submissions, manuscripts and photographs. While every care is taken, prices and details are subject to change and KL magazine takes no responsibility for omissions or errors. We reserve the right to publish and edit any letters. All rights reserved. If you’d like to order prints of any photograph featured in KL magazine, contact us at the address below. Please note this applies only to images taken by our own photographers.
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his lovely picture of Holt Hall is a perfect reminder that Spring is well and truly on its way, and this month’s magazine is full of features to get you all excited about the longer evenings and warmer days. We’re also meeting a range of inspiring people who are genuinely dedicated to making a real difference to people’s lives in Norfolk – whether it’s in tourism (Paul Searle and the Searles Leisure Group), education (Marilyn Brocklehurst’s Norfolk Children’s Book Centre), music (Robert Wolfe at Thursford), amateur dramatics (Sharon and Chris Fox of the King’s Lynn Players) or healthcare (the Estates Team at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital). Of course, the magazine wouldn’t be the same without all our regular contributors and this month Alex Dallas is talking about your pet’s teeth, Mel Done is talking about the ultimate kitchen aids, Theresa Kelly is talking about mushrooms, and Michael Middleton is talking about... well, you know Michael Middleton. We’ve had a lot of fun putting this month’s magazine together, but if there’s something you think we should be featuring, please let us know. Thanks for reading! KL MAGAZINE
Contact us at KL magazine, 18 Tuesday Market Place, King’s Lynn, Norfolk PE30 1JW Tel: 01553 601201 E-mail: features@klmagazine.co.uk Web: www.klmagazine.co.uk 4
KLmagazine April 2012
Contents
APRIL 2012
7 & 11 WHAT’S ON Forthcoming events in West Norfolk 12-14 HOLT HALL A look at the building’s bright future 16
THE BIG INTERVIEW This month we talk to Paul Searle
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THEN AND NOW The changing face of King’s Lynn
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24-26 THE WONDERS OF THE BLUEBELL Bel Greenwood visits Foxley Wood 29
PETS Help and advice with local vet Alex Dallas
30-32 700 YEARS OF RIVER CROSSING A look at the King’s Lynn ferry 38-43 FOOD & DRINK Recipes, reviews and recommendations 44-46 EXPLORER We visit Long Sutton and Sutton Bridge 52
NORFOLK CHILDREN’S BOOK CENTRE The remarkable work of one woman
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BOOK REVIEWS This month’s best reads by Waterstone’s
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60-63 A HEALTH PLAN FOR THE PLANET How King’s Lynn’s QEH is going green 64
THE SOUND OF SUCCESS King’s Lynn company that’s a world leader
66-68 A MAN AND HIS MUSIC A profile of Thursford’s own Robert Wolfe 76-78 THE KING’S LYNN PLAYERS Richard Parr meets Sharon and Chris Fox 81
MY KL Readers’ questions and photographs
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WILD WEST NORFOLK Michael Middleton’s lighter view of things
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ON SCREEN April 2012
love film. love luxe. The local cinema experience for serious movie fans
l The Pirates! In an Adventure with Scientists! l Bel Ami l The Hunger Games l The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel l Battleship l The Avengers Assemble l Contra ban l Cold Light Of Day l Mirror Mirror
As lavish as something from the golden days of Hollywood, The Luxe Cinema is an elegantly stylish film lover’s delight. The Luxe Lounge bar sets the mood for a social drink with friends whilst the cinema itself offers luxurious and spacious leather sofas and armchairs – including a selection of Premier Sofas with waitress service! Allowing moviegoers to sit back and relax in true style, enjoying a glass of wine or a coffee whilst watching a wide programme of mainstream, arthouse and classic films. If you love film, you’ll love Luxe.
The Luxe 01945 588808
Alexandra Road Wisbech Cambridgeshire PE13 1HQ
book online:www.theluxecinema.com
APRIL
Sister Act
BOX OFFICE: (01603) 63 00 00
Mon 2 - Sat 7 April CALENDAR GIRLS All star cast in heartwarming drama £6.50 - £29 Tues 10 - Wed 11 April ENGLISH TOURING OPERA Rossini’s The Barber of Seville (Tues), Tchaikovsky’s Eugene Onegin (Wed) £6.50 - £34
Thur 12 - Sat 14 April CIRQUE DU CIEL Marvellous circus extravaganza £6.50 - £27 Tues 17 - Sat 28 April SISTER ACT Michael Starke, Denise Black star in smash hit musical comedy £6.50 - £42.50
Book online: www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk 6
Sun 29 April THAT’LL BE THE DAY Brand new rock ‘n’ roll variety show £5.50 - £22.50 Mon 30 Apr- Sat 5 May FUNNY PECULIAR Craig Gazey, Vicky Entwistle, Suzanne Shaw, Gemma Bissix star in hilarious adult comedy £5.50 - £22 THEATRE STREET, NORWICH NR2 1RL
KLmagazine April 2012
WHAT’S ON
April
25 YEARS AGO: The Simpsons was first broadcast on 19th April 1987 as a short cartoon on The Tracey Ullman Show in the USA
THURSDAY 5th KING’S LYNN CIVIC SOCIETY LECTURE Thoresby College, Queen Street, King’s Lynn (7:30pm) Robert Bilbie of Robert Bilbie Consultancy presents a talk on Benchmarking Low Energy Housing, tracing the history of low energy housing since the 1960s both locally and nationally – plus reference to historic buildings within Norfolk. Free admission. For further information contact the Society’s secretary Sally Smith on 01553 764422
SATURDAY 7th ELIZABETH WATTS AND JULIUS DRAKE Holkham Hall (7pm) One of the country’s leading sopranos Elizabeth Watts joins pianist Julius Drake for an event that includes Schumann’s song cycle Liederkreis Op.39 and a selection of songs by Ivor Gurney and Richard Strauss. Tickets £25, including a glass of wine in the Saloon during the interval. To book or for further information, contact 01328 713111 or visit www.holkham.co.uk
SATURDAY 7th to MONDAY 9th EASTER TRAIL Peckover House, North Brink, Wisbech (12noon–5pm) A special children’s trail for Easter, with a surprise chocolate prize at the end. Please note the last admissions will be at 4pm. Tickets are only £1.50 – to find out more, call Peckover House on 01945 583463
SATURDAY 21st SPRING CRAFT FAIR Reffley Community Hall, Kings Lynn (10am–3pm) A spring craft fair to raise money for Macmillan Cancer Support organised by PretTier cupcake stands. Up to 25 tables showing a variation of top quality crafts. Raffle, tombola, home-made cake stall (donations of cakes most welcome) Hog roast and light refreshments. Free entry. For more information contact David or Susan Bodsworth on 01553 672840
THURSDAY 5th to SATURDAY 7th BURNHAM MARKET INTERNATIONAL HORSE TRIALS Sussex Farm, Burnham Market Many world-class riders attend to compete over the three days – Piggy French, William Fox-Pitt and Pippa Funnell are just some of the regular competitors at the event. There’s something for everyone – plenty of trade stands where you can grab a bargain, and entertainment for the kids. For further information and prices visit www.musketeer.co.uk or call 01485 210070
WEDNESDAY 25th
SATURDAY 7th EASTER GHOST HUNT The Old Gaol House, King’s Lynn (8pm–1am) Mystic Worlds are holding another public Paranormal Investigation at the Old Gaol house – join them as they try to make contact with the ghosts of the gaol! Tickets are £27 (for over 18s only) and are available online at www.mystic-worlds.co.uk or call 07758 485217 for more information.
SUNDAY 15th DOLLS HOUSES AND MINIATURES FAIR Knights Hill Hotel, South Wootton (10:30am–4pm) Now in its 27th year, the King’s Lynn Dolls Houses and Miniatures Fair features miniaturists from all over Norfolk – and beyond – selling a huge range of miniatures and, of course, dolls houses.
JOHN RENBOURN & ROBIN WILLIAMSON King’s Lynn Arts Centre, Guildhall Theatre (7:30pm) Founder member of the legendary Pentangle, John Renbourn (above) and founder member of the Incredible String Band, Robin Williamson join together for an evening of musical entertainment. Tickets £12, £10 concessions. To book call 01553 764864
If you’ve got an event to publicise, send the details to features@klmagazine.co.uk KLmagazine April 2012
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ABOVE: It’s easy to see why Norfolk Leisure have built a reputation for high quality outdoor furniture – and why they’re in high demand!
The company that’s full of outdoor style... Garden furniture has never looked so stylish, thanks to King’s Lynn based company Norfolk Leisure. KL magazine discovers more about the business that’s got designs on your lifestyle
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t takes a lot of travelling to source just the right raw materials, design, artisans and manufacturers to produce Norfolk Leisure’s high-end, quality garden furniture and now their new indoor range. Director Debbie Waudby and Managing Director Nick Anderson must surely carry those super-sized passports more commonly found in the pockets of foreign correspondents than the slimmer kind handed over at border controls by ordinary folk. These days, most of the company’s foreign travel is beyond Europe to the Far East, Indonesia and China. New
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Zealand pine is used in Norfolk Leisure’s new indoor range of dining tables and chairs, dressers and storage units. Launched six months ago to the furniture industry, there are two stylish lines – The Old Look (with a darker, antique flavour) and Paris (a lighter wood finish with a smooth, classically continental feel sold through garden centres). Debbie and Nick will source the wood and organise its shipping to Vietnam after personally locating the best furniture manufacturers – wherever they are in the country before heading back to the UK. “Factories all over the world are set
ABOVE: Director Debbie Waudby and Managing Director Nick Anderson of Norfolk Leisure
KLmagazine April 2012
up to trade internationally,” says Debbie, “it just takes a little time to find the best ones.” Once quality is assured, it’s off again on another trip – it could be to look at the best in storage design in Israel or to find all-weather textiles. The distances the directors will travel illustrates Norfolk Leisure’s commitment to quality and unique design. Norfolk Leisure is unique in many ways. It supplies 300 garden centres as well as retail outlets like Debenhams and Daily Mail Online. It’s one of the top ten garden furniture manufacturers in the UK, but still manages to offer a personal service, full training and support, and a keen knowledge of its products to its retail outlets that can be passed on in turn to customers. It has an enviable turnover, yet retains a family business feel. Norfolk Leisure began life in the 1980s, when Nick Anderson started to make rustic furniture in his back garden, putting into practice a skill he learnt from his father. In partnership with his wife Jo and father-in-law David, the business developed quickly into imports and ceased manufacturing in 2002. Debbie Waudby came in 15 years ago to answer the phones for three days only while the staff attended a trade show and ended up unable to leave. Most of the staff also stay and stay. “They’re a brilliant team to have supporting the business, with many years of experience between them,” says Debbie. The range of products on offer in its warehouse just outside King’s Lynn is not only high quality but wide-ranging and well worth a weekend visit to its showroom. It’s a positive treat not to be missed – anyone who likes quality, elegance and practicality in their indoor or outdoor furniture should make the short journey down the A10 to the ancient village of Setchey and take a look. Behind the showroom is Norfolk Leisure’s warehouse, which handles 20 container shipments a month. It is enormous and stacked to the rafters,
KLmagazine April 2012
busy with movement. “We see ourselves as a bit different,” says Nick. “We stock heavily and deliver weekly.” It means being able to supply anything in the ranges very quickly. It also means the showroom out front mirrors the stock under the large warehouse roof out back. Inside the showroom is the ultimate answer to the British summer – the allweather cushion. Only one other company in the country makes them. Gone are the days when at the end of a long afternoon of sun and sangria, someone has to hoist the cushions off the garden chairs and stuff them into the shed. Norfolk Leisure offers stunning designer weave garden furniture with cushions made with textaline – which can sit outside in all weathers. The combination with the resin/plastic weave makes this furniture almost indestructible – and coupled with the quality of design, an irresistible product. It is beautiful garden wear that extends to design teak tables and reclaimed teak benches and tables as well as cast aluminium tables and chairs. Garden storage is built into benches and boxes and storage boxes from Israel have been given a Red Dot Design Award. Now this level of quality and design is available for indoor as well as outdoor and there’s a new cushion on the block. Norfolk Leisure is launching large, brightly coloured, anywhere cushions called Xpandacush – you can sit on them, squash them and mould them to your shape. Perfect comfort that comes vacuum-packed. Norfolk Leisure has travelled a long way from its back garden beginnings and has no intention of standing still.
Details NORFOLK LEISURE LIFESTYLE LTD Setchey, King’s Lynn, Norfolk PE33 0BE Tel: 01553 811717 E-mail: sales@norfolkleisure.co.uk Web: www.norfolkleisure.co.uk
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KLmagazine April 2012
WHAT’S ON
WEDNESDAY 18th APRIL SING FOR WELL-BEING Snettisham Village Memorial Choir 10:00am – 12noon A new 12-week term with Snettisham Community Choir begins this month at Snettisham Village Memorial Hall to encourage health and well-being as well as creative fulfilment. Running on Wednesday mornings, the group will be working towards performing together at Dersingham Parish Church on 14th July with Fakenham and Snettisham community choirs in a joint concert. At Sing For Well-Being everyone sings together in a group for pure enjoyment and the course is accessible to all abilities – even if you think you can’t sing! It’s an excellent way to meet new people and to become part of a caring community group. “I’m passionate about the effect of harmony and what’s possible when a group comes together to sing, even when the participants are unsure of their voices,” says Carol O’Neill, a natural voice practitioner and qualified counsellor who’s been running community singing groups for 17 years. “The course is for all age groups and is designed for the absolute beginners. It includes exercises and games to help people get the most out of their voices,” she continues. Carol’s heart lies in the aural tradition of teaching that relies on the self rather than the intellect. Sheet music, therefore, is rarely used as everything is taught by ear. Carol’s approach is light-hearted and she strives to offer a fulfilling experience that impacts positively on physical, mental and spiritual wellbeing. For further information and to become involved, call Carol on 01328 838316 or e-mail carolone@homecall.co.uk. You can also visit the website at www.singforwellbeing.co.uk
COMING NEXT MONTH: SUNDAY 6th & MONDAY 7th MAY 37th STRADSETT PARK VINTAGE RALLY 10:00am – 5:00pm The National Vintage Tractor & Engine Club has been in existence for over 30 years, and currently has approximately 7,500 members. If you’ve never been to the East Anglia group’s annual rally at Stradsett, this is the year to put that right. A great family day out, the club is fully expecting to match last year’s hugely successful display – consisting of 140 tractors, 100 engines, 120 cars, trucks and a fantastic selection of motorcycles. Plus there’s bygones, trade stands, ring displays, catering and a licensed bar. Adults £5, children free – and it’s all in aid of Break (the club’s chosen Charity of the Year). You’ll find the rally just east of Downham Market (where the A134 crosses the A1122). For more details and information, see the website at www.nvtec-ea.org.uk
KLmagazine April 2012
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LOCAL LIFE
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KLmagazine April 2012
OPPOSITE: A grand building in a fabulous setting, Holt Hall looks well set to be the perfect venue for spectacular weddings
The bright future for Holt’s hidden hall... It’s been a school, conference centre and a film location, but now Holt Hall is set to be the perfect wedding venue. Bel Greenwood discovers more about this remarkable building...
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t’s located just off the Kelling Road in Holt. Turn left onto a long straight tarmac drive with mature trees like sentinels on either side until the grounds open out. On the right are tennis courts which double as a car park and on the left is an enormous oak at least 450 years old. The house is set back, an impressive Victorian country house with deep windows and tall tudor chimneys set in 83 acres of land. The house backs onto formal gardens, a romantically weathered terrace that looks out over a lake full of shimmering light and water lilies. The grounds are beautiful. There are secret pathways through ancient woodland that has been around since before Domesday. This is where a 1,000 year old Sweet Chestnut tree grows in a glade off the rhododendron
KLmagazine April 2012
walk. Holt Hall has all the features of a grand country house – but it’s far more than that. Holt Hall has spent over half a century in education in one form or another after it was bought by the Norfolk Education Committee in 1946 and was used as a school. These days it’s a residential centre for Environmental and Outdoor Education, for schools, colleges and universities and hosts courses for adults. But it can be hired as a film location, open its doors to conferences and offer its grounds for events, (the Fairy Fair is a frequent visitor), and now the Hall is turning its hand to weddings. Holt Hall has entered into partnership with TV celebrity chef, Chris Coubrough and his award-winning Flying Kiwi Inns to provide the perfect
wedding experience. Flying Kiwi Inns will roll out everything a wedding party could possibly crave. They’ll bring the flowers and provide the catering, but – in a perfect symbiotic relationship with the Hall – use fresh produce from the Victorian vegetable gardens which run a Roots and Shoots project, training young people in the practical skills of organic gardening. An important aspect of the partnership is a mutual interest in helping kids. It’s at the heart of everything that happens at Holt. The Hall has seen thousands of children over the years. On any morning there can be a primary school in for a week or on a day course, MSc students on work experience, young excluded teenagers helping in the
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grounds or garden, the Royal Horticultural Society doing a course in the library. So how will the Hall be transformed from classroom to class? “Flying Kiwi Inns will dress the hall,” says Andrew Coles, the centre manager. “They brought their interior designer up from London to give us an idea of colours.” And inside the Hall, the walls are now painted a pale robin egg blue. In some of the rooms, highly decorative dado rails are picked out. The décor changes are ongoing and there are plans to involve young people in creating art for the walls. The Hall might have been a school for years, but it has never lost the atmosphere or contours of a country house. The Hall has an intricately carved and unusual wooden surround to the large open fire and the function room that will be used for weddings is light and bright, overlooking the west lawn – and although set up with table tennis and board games for the R&R of resident children today, all this will be swept away by the small cleaning team ready for Chris Coubrough’s staff to create a venue with wedding touches. As far as Rosie Roberts, the Revenue Manager for Flying Kiwi Inns is concerned, Holt Hall is “a great location.” The wedding offer comes under the out-catering arm of the restaurant business. They’ll advertise Holt Hall as a venue and liaise with the Hall on bookings. Small weddings will take place in the function room inside the Hall, but large weddings will take place with a marquee in the grounds. In keeping with the educational and training purpose of the hall, Flying Kiwi Inns will use not only the Hall’s produce but “where possible, we’ll be using their youngsters in terms of helping us,” Rosie says. “It depends on what the people want,” she adds.
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What Holt Hall desires is to become more open to the public. It lost £250,000 of its funding when local authorities had their budgets cut, but not only has it recouped that lost income it’s actually come in with a profit. It’s a remarkable achievement in the present climate, and as far as Andrew Coles is concerned is due to the efforts of a small and dedicated team. Holt Hall is creating more opportunities for the Hall to be used. There’s a farmer’s market every second Sunday and at the same time there’s an Open Gates Day when people can look around the grounds. Andrew Coles wants people to come in and fall in love with the place. It doesn’t take long. There’s something in the air, in the grace of the place that draws people in. It has its share of history, the lives of the families who lived here right through from medieval times in the old Manor (all gone but for traces at the site of two cottages in the grounds) right up until the last family owners – the Burcham-Rogers – and their servants sold the house and its contents. This was after the house had been headquarters for the 9th Royal Norfolk Regiment during the Second World War. Like any big house, Holt Hall has its resident ghosts too. There’s the 1930s gardener who died after falling from a ladder as he clipped the ivy and is said to haunt the West Lawn, the lady in black who can be seen flitting through the trees at dusk, and the ghostly figure that rushes past in a sheath of cold air on the landing on the servant’s floor. This hidden Hall is coming out – and for Andrew Coles it’s new and exciting, and proving successful. “It’s being open to people to come here and enjoy and to want to be part of it all,” he says. “As soon as you arrive you feel like you’re in a different world.”
KLmagazine April 2012
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KLmagazine April 2012
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PERSONALITY
THE BIG INTER VIEW:
PAUL E L R A E S
p es Leisure Grou rl a e S r, to c e ir Managing D tor of Searles c e ir D g in g a n a The M zine about talks to KL maga future of e the work and th roup... Searles Leisure G
KL MAGAZINE: Can you give us an overview of Searles as it is today? PAUL SEARLE: The Searles Leisure Group comprises four key divisions – the Leisure Resort, which is the original business most people are familiar with; Searles Country Park, which offers a range of leisure activities and a slower pace of life; the luxury Heacham Manor hotel and golf course; and the ever popular Searles Sea Tours. KL MAGAZINE: Things must have changed a lot over the last 82 years? PAUL SEARLE: It’s amazing when you compare today’s computerised operation to the early days when my grandfather started his boat business and kept ponies on the field! Friends of his would ask if they could park their caravans on the grass, and that’s how it started. They used to write their names on a piece of board, and that was their pitch! Things have changed enormously – we’ll have almost 4,000 on site at the height of the season – but as our corporate tagline says, we’re still in the business of creating happiness for all ages. And that doesn’t just mean families – we also host a number of corporate and group events. At start of year, we had a very successful corporate event invloving 650 people. KL MAGAZINE: Are things still changing for Searles? PAUL SEARLE: We’re always looking at ways to invest in the core parts of the Group, especially in the areas of food and drink and accommodation. We’ve recently refurbished and updated the Mariner’s Restaurant (it’s now called Smoky Jo’s), we’ve given the Plaza an exciting continental facelift, and we’re creating a CookHouse, where chefs will cook your food in front of you. Our latest brochure is our best-ever, we’ve upgraded some lodges (some of them now have hot tubs!) and we’re introducing a new range of holiday homes – I think overall people will notice a real feeling of high quality across the park. For our touring and tenting customers, we’re always listening to them and making improvements – and we’ll soon be moving into ‘glamping’ with pods and yurts. We have always tried hard to keep ahead of the game. It seems to have worked too – our bookings in January were double what there were at the same time last year. KL MAGAZINE: Searles is very much a a family buisness, isn’t it? Very much so – but although my
KLmagazine April 2012
brother is Director of Operations and my sister handles the financial side of the Group, my father never actually forced any of us into the business. I started by helping my father when his responsibilites for the National Trades Association demanded more of his time, and my brother started out by working in the supermarket for a summer. Obviously the family tradition is a strong one (my uncle continues to be the Director of the Seatours division), but we all work for the Group because we enjoy the business. KL MAGAZINE: What does your role of Managing Director entail? PAUL SEARLE: It’s my responsibility to keep an eye on all facets of the Group. We have a senior management team in place who are responsible for different parts of the business, and with them I ensure that everything keeps moving forwards in the right direction. It’s my job to make sure all staff understand the vision of where Searles Leisure Group is and where it’s going. We’re determined to become the best accommodation provider in the UK’s leisure sector, and I have to ensure every single member of the operation understands the overall objective. KL MAGAZINE: What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given? PAUL SEARLE: If you want to run a business successfully, you have to experience all the work at first-hand. You need a real hands-on understanding of everything so you never ask someone else to do something you wouldn’t be prepared to do yourself. So, yes – I have worked in the fish and chip shop over summer! KL MAGAZINE: What have you learned from your work? PAUL SEARLE: We’re all human beings and we’re all different, and everyone needs to be treated as an individual. In the same situation, some people need an arm around the shoulder and some need a prod – my work has taught me how to tell the difference. KL MAGAZINE: What’s the most rewarding part of your job? PAUL SEARLE: At the end of the day, there’s nothing like seeing all the accolades on websites such as Trip Advisor and reading feedback from customer surveys. People really enjoy their holidays with Searles – and that’s priceless. I’m also very proud of the staff we have. We have 250 employees at the height of the season and over 140 all year round – we’re one of the biggest employers in the area.
Helping to sustain the local economy and working with the Chamber of Trade to promote regeneration for Hunstanton is very important to me, ensuring this resort town is a vibrant and attractive place in which to live and work. KL MAGAZINE: What do you like best about West Norfolk? PAUL SEARLE: I like the fact that it’s remote – so it’s a destination in its own right that people make a point of coming to. With the sunsets and walks on the beach, life in Husntanton is fantastic. KL MAGAZINE: What do you think the future holds for the area? PAUL SEARLE: Thanks to my work with the West Norfolk Tourism Forum, I’m well aware of all the initiatives and hard work that are going into promoting the area. It’s clear that Hunstanton and West Norfolk are definitely on the way forward for tourism and they have a very promising future. KL MAGAZINE: In your free time, how do you relax? PAUL SEARLE: In the little free time I do have, I enjoy playing hockey for the Pelicans and a round of golf when I can. Most of all, I really enjoy taking the children out. KL MAGAZINE: Who has been your biggest inspiration? PAUL SEARLE: Undoubtedly my father – together with his drive and determination to succeed, what he managed to achieve in his lifetime has been such a great inspiration, and we’ve all tried to follow in his footsteps. KL MAGAZINE: Other than Hunstanton, where would you most like to go on holiday? PAUL SEARLE: One of my most treasured experiences was the time I went white-water rafting in New Zealand with my father – and I think that way of life and that culture is closest to my own. It’s a wonderful place to visit.
SEARLES LEISURE RESORT South Beach, Hunstanton PE36 5BB Tel: 01485 534211 Web: www.searles.co.uk
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KLmagazine April 2012
HISTORY
West Norfolk: Then and Now
1900
2012 WHAT WERE THE SHAMBLES? This picture was sent to us by KL magazine reader Ted Brighton, and shows the building known as ‘the Shambles’ in front of St. Margarets at some point before its demolition around 1914. Ted tells us that he thinks there was a school on the first floor of
the building, but he doesn’t know any more than that – but perhaps you do? For more photographs of how things used to be in King’s Lynn and the surrounding area, contact Picture Norfolk – at the Norfolk Heritage Centre, Norfolk and Norwich Millennium Library, The Forum,
Millennium Plain, Norwich, Norfolk NR2 1AW. We’ll be bringing you another nostalgic look at West Norfolk next month. IN ASSOCIATION WITH
To view thousands of images of Norfolk’s history visit: www.picture.norfolk.gov.uk KLmagazine April 2012
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Treat yourself to a truly sparkling Spring...
Blatchford & Mills Jewellers | Pawnbrokers | Cheque Cashing
6 Tower Street, King’s Lynn, Norfolk PE30 1EJ Telephone: 01553 661227
single glazing, double glazing, triple glazing, processed glass, bathroom mirrors, wardrobe mirrors, bevelled mirrors, shelves, table tops, display counters, shower doors, splash backs, coloured glass, painted glass, antique glass, French doors, frameless sliding doors, glass floors, balustrades, glass cleaner, frame cleaner, adhesives, putty, silicone, screws, locks, handles, letterboxes, repairs, servicing, solar films, privacy films, fly screens, fascia, soffit, guttering, residential doors, commercial doors, automatic doors, patio doors, composite doors, garage doors, casement windows, sash windows, wood effect windows, coloured windows, hybrid windows, leaded windows, shop fronts, architectural aluminium, curtain walling, glass roofs, roof lights, sun pipes, light tunnels, atrium roofs, lean-to roofs, flat rubber roofs, car ports, sun screens, blinds, multi-fold doors, bi-folding doors, sun rooms, greenhouses, conservatories, decking, orangeries...
...from the mirror in your bathroom to the Orangery in your garden... the choice is clear!
West Norfolk Glass Ltd THE LOCAL COMPANY FOR ALL YOUR GLAZING NEEDS SINCE 1967 Hereford Way, Hardwick Narrows, King’s Lynn PE30 4JD Tel: 01553 763164 | Web: www.westnorfolkglass.co.uk
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KLmagazine April 2012
Insurance Matters WITH BIKESURE INSURANCE SERVICES
Getting your motorbike ready for the road ith spring in the air, bikers across the country are dusting down their leathers and itching to hit
the road. But if your bike has been laid up in the garage for the winter months, specialist insurer Bikesure is advising a few vital safety checks are carried out before getting back in the saddle. Robert Balls, of Bikesure, said that failing to prepare your bike after a period on the sidelines was an unnecessary risk. “Your bike needs to be in top operating condition to ensure safety,� he added. k$V D VSHFLDOLVW PRWRUELNH LQVXUDQFH provider we deal with accident claims every day and, as a result, we recognise the importance of carrying out regular checks. “Even if you are one of the hardy souls who got their bikes out as soon as the snow melted, rather than just resurrecting it now the sun has arrived, it’s still worth FDUU\LQJ RXW WKH FKHFNV 7KH FRQVHTXHQFHV of neglecting a solid maintenance regime don’t bear thinking about.�
Tel. 0800 089 2000
Bikesure’s essential checklist: 1. Review any notes you made when you put your bike into storage. It can be easy to forget little things like that small part you removed to get a matching replacement and never got round to replacing. 2. Did you remove the battery for winter storage, or leave the negative lead attached? Check and clean the battery WHUPLQDOV EHIRUH UHoWWLQJ $ ELFDUERQDWH of soda solution works well to clean the terminals. 3. &KHFN RU FKDQJH WKH RLO DQG oOWHU DQG check the grease and other lubricants. 4. 'UDLQ WKH IXHO WDQN FOHDQ DQG UHoOO 7KLV is especially important if you left it nearly HPSW\ GXULQJ WKH ZLQWHU $Q HPSW\ WDQN will have air inside, and that air will have moisture, which will condense in the cold. 5. Check all cables and lubricate with the
For more information and insurance tips make sure you visit www.bikesure.co.uk
www.bikesure.co.uk Authorised & regulated by the Financial Services Authority
VSHFLoHG OXEULFDQWV 6. Check the tyre pressure and wear of tread. If you had a special winter tyre pressure, remember to change it for the summer. Don’t use a tyre cleaner on bike tyres – it will make them hard and slippery. 7. Check all lights. 8. &KHFN EUDNH pXLG OHYHO DQG HQVXUH EUDNH SDGV DQG VKRHV DUHQ W ZRUQ %UDNH pXLG KDV a life span and should be changed on a frequent basis. 9. Clean the inside of your helmet with a mild soapy solution and ensure it is dry. Examine it for hairline cracks. 10. If you put away your winter cover during the summer, air it properly before storing it somewhere warm and dry. You don’t want to discover that it’s damp or mouldy next winter when you need it again.
ABOVE: After 14 weeks of work, 4 Way Refrigeration Ltd have given Budgens’ Holt store a truly state-of-the-art installation
Budgens and 4 Way – a winning combination... King’s Lynn based 4 Way Refrigeration Ltd recently completed a major programme for the expanded Budgens store in Holt. Bel Greenwood discovers more about the company’s work...
I
t wasn’t until 1805 that an American inventor, Oliver Evans, designed the first refrigeration machine. It must have been a wonder at the time, and the process of producing practical refrigeration continued with Jacob Perkins in 1834 using ether in a compression cycle and Carl von Linden who patented the process of liquefying gas in 1876, part of basic refrigeration policy. There was no home fridge before the 1920s and no mass production until after the Second World War. What
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would those pioneer inventors make of refrigeration today? It’s not only our domestic units but especially, the intelligent, thinking refrigeration and chiller units that 4 Way Refrigeration Ltd is designing and putting into supermarkets and retail units today. 4 Way Refrigeration Ltd has recently completed a 14-week programme installing the shop floor chilled and frozen display, delicatessen, chiller and freezer, cold rooms and refrigeration alarm system in the expanded Budgens store in Holt. It’s the biggest Budgens in the UK and boasts 13,000 square feet of
space, much of it devoted to locallysourced fresh food on offer to the North Norfolk town and its hinterland. The store, owned by the CT Baker Group, had over £1 million invested, and over a third of that went into the refrigeration contract. “It was a pleasure working with 4 Way Refrigeration Ltd,” says Mr Baker. “Efficiency and energy-saving were very important to me, so they organised visits to similar stores they’d completed to ensure I could get exactly what I wanted from both a financial and conservational aspect. The project ran
KLmagazine April 2012
ABOVE: The freezer units at the new store – note the cold storage area at the back
smoothy – and the results were just as I’d hoped for our customers.” 4 Way Refrigeration Ltd had already enjoyed a successful working relationship with Michael Baker, having serviced and maintained the refrigeration units in Bakers and Larners Food Hall next door for several years and have unrivalled expertise locally. They supply and maintain the refrigeration requirements of several other leading supermarket stores and install, supply and manage refrigeration requirements both regionally and further afield across East Anglia, the East Midlands and down into the Home Counties. The refrigeration units in the Holt store are the best available. The units have a stylish, curved design, easy to read labelling with open, attractive display. But behind the surface simplicity and everyday ubiquity of the units lies a very sophisticated technology. 4 Way Refrigeration Ltd uses the acme of British refrigeration manufacturing, George Barker & Co., based in Bradford and Leeds and winner of the 2009 Cooling Industry Awards. The technology of refrigeration these days is high on energy conservation, and the design enhances all aspects of the process. In Holt, 4 Way Refrigeration Ltd used top end machines – Eco Vista with DC fans and energy-saving LED lighting. It’s not just energy that’s conserved: the way that refrigeration is designed into its location and for its purpose is streamlined. For example, milk is sold in cages that are sited close to the cold room where they are stored and wheeled out to fit exactly into the right chilled space. Cold rooms are developed for specific purposes so that a supermarket can have a cold room for home deliveries and this will be sited in the optimal position to conserve all forms of energy, including human. Refrigeration is part of a continually
KLmagazine April 2012
evolving retail development to meet consumer need. Meeting consumer need is what 4 Way Refrigeration Ltd does best. They can custom build to meet requirements and they maintain and monitor refrigeration once it’s in place. In supermarkets, a refrigeration alarm system will dial in automatically if there’s any fluctuation in temperature. 4 Way Refrigeration Ltd can offer a package where a company can benefit from remote diagnosis, where it’s possible to dial up a refrigerated unit and check what’s happening remotely and either make remote alterations or know what’s wrong before 4 Way Refrigeration Ltd sends in an engineer. It gives a sense of security knowing that there’s an expert oversight of the machines and it saves money and time because an engineer can arrive with the required spare part and it all cuts the downtime on a unit. Defrosting is another streamlined aspect of supermarket refrigeration. Unlike the arduous overnight task of home fridges, a supermarket refrigeration unit needs to defrost up to eight times a day and does so as part of the cycle of cooling. “We use the air in the cabinet to blow across the coils to defrost,” explains Steve Simpson, one of 4 Way Refrigeration Ltd’s Directors. “A fan blows the air through the coils and the air sucked in forms an air curtain which blows down and keeps the coils free.” In the past, heaters were used to defrost the coils with all the cost and energy implications. 4 Way Refrigeration Ltd covers warranty calls for King’s Lynn’s largest refrigerator manufacturer and their seven field service engineers are on call for all maintenance needs If anything needs cold technology, whether it’s mortuaries and funeral parlours, doctors, dentists, hospitals or the leisure and retail industry, 4 Way Refrigeration Ltd will have the machine that suits your needs.
Whatever sized contract, large or small, whatever the location and whatever the need, 4 Way Refrigeration Ltd has the same approach. “Quality is the key,” says Steve. “It’s all down to the quality.” I think the old pioneering refrigeration inventors would probably agree.
Details 4 WAY REFRIGERATION LTD Unit 25, Bergen Way, North Lynn Industrial Estate, King’s Lynn PE30 2JG Tel: 01553 767878 E-mail: sales@4wayref.co.uk Web: www.4wayref.co.uk
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LOCAL LIFE
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KLmagazine April 2012
ABOVE: The amazing sight of bluebells at Foxley Wood is a natural wonder – but it’s also a very fragile one
Foxley Wood and the wonders of the bluebell PICTURES: RICHARD OSBOURNE/DAVID NORTH
Nearly half the world’s bluebells are in England, but they’re not entirely safe yet. Bel Greenwood talks to John Milton of the Norfolk Wildlife Trust about this remarkably precious flower...
I
t’s been voted Britain’s most loved flower. In 1871, the English poet and Jesuit priest Gerard Manley Hopkins described them as ‘falls of sky-colour.’ They carpet bare woodland with an unrivalled richness, yet multiply across the English landscape as slowly as a glacier moves down a mountain. They are delicate, almost modest flowers – yet the undisputed heralds of the coming of early summer. Our native bluebell – Hyacinthoides non-scripta as it’s officially (though less prosaically) known – is a prehistoric plant and often grows on ground that’s been undisturbed since the last ice age.
KLmagazine April 2012
A protected species under the 1981 Wildlife and Countryside Act, they’re a celebration of the changing season and people travel from miles around to go and see bluebells in ancient woodland sites when they flower in April and May. In Norfolk, that means a trip to Foxley Wood, which is the largest ancient woodland site in the county. Foxley Wood has been continuous woodland for the last 2,000 years. Located off the A1067 Fakenham Road through the winding village of Foxley, it appears on the earliest known county maps in 1797. In the 1800s, just down the road in Lyng, the Reverend Northgate wrote
about the brushwood bundles that came out of the 300-acre wood for Themelthorpe railway sidings ready to be transported to burn in ovens and kilns around the region. Hurdles were cut and fashioned and used to contain sheep, particularly the practice of holding sheep on poor soil while they dropped their dung which enriched it. Foxley Wood survived because it was useful. These days, the wood is managed (along with 15 other sites) by John Milton, the Woods and Heaths Reserve Manager for the Norfolk Wildlife Trust. John Milton has looked after Foxley Woods since 1992, restoring the broad-
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England may have up to half of the world’s total bluebell population Despite their name, bluebells can be white – and if you see pink ones they’re probably Spanish bluebells 71% of native bluebells are found in broad-leaved woodland or scrub
In the UK, the common bluebell is a protected species under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981. Landowners are prohibited from removing common bluebells on their land for sale and it’s a criminal offence to remove the bulbs of wild common bluebells. This legislation was strengthened in 1998, making any trade in wild common bluebell bulbs or seeds an offence.
leaf canopy from the third of the wood that was turned over to conifer plantation in the 1960’s when the Trust acquired the land in the late 1980’s. Nowadays, Foxley Wood is a national nature reserve and a site of special scientific interest. Among its rare trees grow holly, Midland hawthorn and the wild service tree. Tawny owls and sparrowhawks have made this woodland their home, and the woodchuttering sound of woodpeckers hammering on tree trunks can be heard. The wood is teeming with flora – 250 different species have been recorded, including rare woodland plants growing within the bluebell sward such as dog’s mercury and herb paris, the pale yellow woodland primrose and violets all clustered in coppiced areas. There’s a kind of hush in bluebell woodland. It’s such a powerful, luminous sight and the strong smell of the flowers adds to an intoxication of the senses. In Foxley, the bluebells flow under the trees like a gentle blue flood. The wide, comfortable rides that cross the woods allow for a deep walk through the swards. It’s hard to imagine that this natural enchantment could be at risk but it is. Bluebells are rarer than you may think – it’s been estimated that England is home to almost half of all the bluebells growing in the world. The rest grow in northern Spain, along the west coast of France, in Belgium and Holland. They require certain damp conditions, so being an island sitting in the Atlantic is key to bluebell
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PICTURE: MATTHEW TEBBUTT
The poet Tennyson wrote of bluebell juice being used to cure snake-bite
propagation. In the west of the country bluebells are found on clifftops and moors because of the dampness of the climate but here in the east (where the region is dryer) they need woodland cover to thrive. And climate – or climate change – is presenting a particular challenge to the bluebell’s survival. “Bluebells get all their growth over before the tree canopy comes into full leaf,” explains John Milton. But spring is no longer where it was in the seasonal calendar. “Over a century the usual growth of leaves on trees has advanced by about a month,” he continues, “and the triggers that control that are more temperature-related – whereas the triggers for bluebells are more genetic and change will be much slower. There’s a real risk that bluebells will lose.” Another serious issue is the incursion of a more aggressive sub-species of bluebell which has been introduced into gardens. This is the Spanish bluebell. “It freely interbreeds with our bluebells and once it gets into the gene pool you can radically change the growth form,” says John. In fact, most of the bluebells sold from garden centres are Spanish bluebells. They’re stronger and taller than our dainty native species and overshadow other woodland plants that cohabit happily with the smaller native bluebells in the sward. These wouldn’t survive the competition and rare woodland plants would die out. However, there’s more awareness in garden centres these days, as John points out. “There’s more of a drive now for garden centres to have native bluebell seeds.”
Bluebells propagate by corm division in the wild, which is why they spread so slowly – but they can be grown from commercially-available seed. It’s illegal to dig them up, but sadly there are a number of people who do this and at the same time damage important archaeological sites. Conversely, damage to the native bluebell stock occurs when people dig up clumps of Spanish bluebells in their back gardens and come and plant them in the woods. They mean well, but they’re not doing our native stock any favours. Another risk factor is a woodland creature with a particular taste for bluebells. To deer, they’re something of a spring delicacy and they wolf the bluebell along with other ground flora. There are a high number of deer at Foxley Wood, and they have to be managed carefully by a variety of means. It’s a tricky balance. “We underrate our bluebells because we take them for granted,” says John Milton. “They’re very restricted to ancient woodlands and our ancient woodlands are declining. They’re under pressure from development, road construction and from the deer.” The Wildlife Trusts are celebrating a centenary of protecting our wild spaces this year, and for Foxley Wood this will include two Woodland Wildlife Weekends this month (on the 14th-15th and 21st-22nd) – a time when the bluebells should be looking at their very best. NWT staff will be on hand to answer questions, offer advice and indicate where to go to see the most beautiful under-tree displays of the nation’s favourite flower. It may be a case of catching them while you can.
KLmagazine April 2012
All your holiday questions... bust? o g y n a p m o c y a d li o Will your h Will your flight be delayed? ons? Will you need injecti ancelled? c e b t h ig fl r u o y l il W arrive? Will your cruise ship ith you? w e iv r r a s g a b r u o y Will Will the hotel be clean and safe? Will the exchange rate be fair ?
...and all the answers! Say goodbye to your holiday worries and say hello to the ease, comfort and freedom of your own holiday caravan in West Norfolk – we currently have plots available in Snettisham, Heacham, Hunstanton, Thornham and Brancaster. Even better, prices start from only £6995 – and you won’t need your passport! Contact McDonnell Caravans today and discover a new world of holidays – right on your doorstep! We’re open 7 days a week!
Lynn Road, Gayton, King’s Lynn PE32 1QJ
For full details or to book an appointment, call 01553 636243 or visit www.mcdonnellcaravans.co.uk
Visit Redwings Caldecott and meet our special rescued horses and ponies FOR FREE! ■ ■
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Quality Assured Attraction Paddock Walks, Gift Shop and Nosebag Café Open daily 10am to 5pm from March 31 to November 4 FREE ENTRY! Situated near Great Yarmouth and Beccles at Caldecott Hall, Beccles Road, Fritton, Norfolk (NR31 9EY)
Telephone // 01328 851351 Email // info@gjlanimalfeeds.co.uk Web // www.gjlanimalfeeds.co.uk Clipbush Business Park, Fakenham NR21 8SX
Registered Charity No.1068911
Enquiries for all centres including accessibility and special events
0870 040 0033 or www.redwings.co.uk
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New centre in Aylsham, Norfolk opens 2012! Please see website for details!
Same Evergreen choice and the same Evergreen service – all that’s changed is the name!
DOUBLEDAY PART OF THE LANDSCAPE FOR GENERATIONS
St. Germans, King’s Lynn, Norfolk PE34 3EU KING’S LYNN 01553 617666 | HOLBEACH 01406 540261 | BOURNE 01778 424500 WEB: www.doubledaygroup.co.uk | E-MAIL: kingslynnteam@doubledaygroup.co.uk
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KLmagazine April 2012
PETS
AnimalMatters Our monthly look at the issues concerning you and your pets with Alex Dallas of the London Road Veterinary Centre...
Attention! One of the proudest roles we have is looking after the RAF dogs based at Marham. These dogs carry out a variety of tasks, and several have been out to Afghanistan to help keep our forces safer whenever they can. There is a strength and courage detectable in these animals, and along with their handlers they deserve our utter respect. To have the opportunity to work with these people and their working dogs is an absolute privilege, and work we take great pride in.
Keep care of those teeth!
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have one great phobia and that’s the dentist. I think it stems from boyhood when I’d visit a somewhat brutal dentist who filled tooth after tooth – I think in order to purchase a Ferrari! What’s ironic now is that performing dentistry in the practice on my patients is one of the most satisfying procedures I do. Cleaning up the plaque and infection and removing the source of any pain, and seeing the obvious improvement to those patients is fantastic. Dogs commonly build up tartar on their teeth creating infection and causing the gums to recede, exposing tooth roots and leading to wobbly painful teeth. In cats this also happens but they also suffer from erosions in some teeth which can be very sore. If your pets’ breath smells unusually badly, or they’re pawing at their mouths then they may have some tooth trouble. Examining your own pet’s mouth can be quite tricky, but you should look out for a build-up of brown scale, or red, sore gums.
Dentistry in pets is very similar to the care you would receive yourself. We use ultrasonic scaler machines and polishers, and we have high speed drills and special tools for all kinds of procedures. The drill does bring back some of the boyhood nightmares, but I’m much happier performing dentistry than receiving it. Of course, our patients need to be anaesthetised to allow us to perform the work, and I’m aware this worries owners. However, I can assure you it’s such a benefit to the animal with a very low chance of risk, and we can usually take additional steps to reduce this further still. Throughout April we’re offering a free Check-up of your pet’s teeth with our veterinary nurses in their free clinics. If you would like us to check your pet’s mouth for any discomfort or possible problems ring us and book in for an appointment. I can also assure you any treatment needed won’t cost the price of a Ferrari! Check us out further on our website at makeyourpetsmile.co.uk
Your pets In line with this month’s tooth-related topic, here’s a smiling Gracie (she’s actually chewing a rose branch!)who’s 3 months old and lives with Hazel Morrow in Hunstanton. Gracie also loves playing football and running on the beach! Don’t forget to keep sending me pictures of your pets (the funnier the better!) to Animal Matters at KL magazine, 18 Tuesday Market Place, King’s Lynn, Norfolk PE30 1JW or you can e-mail them to editor@klmagazine.co.uk
LONDON ROAD 25 London Road, King’s Lynn t: 01553 773168 e: info@lrvc.co.uk HOLLIES Paradise Road, Downham Market t: 01366 386655 e: hollies@holliesvetclinic.co.uk KLmagazine April 2012
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LOCAL LIFE
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KLmagazine April 2012
PICTURES: IAN WARD/NORFOLK COUNTY COUNCIL/WWW.PICTURE.NORFOLK.GOV.UK
ABOVE: An early engraving of the King’s Lynn ferry from a drawing by RW Macbeth – and the ferry as it is today (opposite)
700 years of ferrying across King’s Lynn... Gail and Steve Kingston are keeping alive a centuries-old tradition of carrying passengers from one side of Lynn to the other. Bel Greenwood looks back at the ferry’s long history...
O
n one of those days which have very blue skies and a wintry luminosity (but are still utterly freezing) I went to catch the King’s Lynn Ferry, which plies the shallow, grey waters of the River Ouse. I waited with a trio of regular users with their shopping bags and was struck by their fierce loyalty to the ferry and its owner-operators, Gail and Steve Kingston of Kingston Marine Services. They wouldn’t travel any other way from King’s Lynn to West Lynn. It’s not just that the ferry saves a long, roundabout road trip. It’s not that such
KLmagazine April 2012
a journey makes no sense with a ferry at their feet. It’s also that there’s a a real appreciation for the sheer physical endurance of keeping the ferry going, six days a week all year round. And it is an heroic undertaking. In winter, the Kingstons are pushing out the vessel in darkness and negotiating the challenges of a river with an unpredictable tidal pattern and they’re still plying the waters as the town is shrouded in dank and misty early nights. “It’s a total commitment,” says Steve Kingston. “It’s the worst in the winter – the worst job in the world – but in the
summer it’s the best job.” The weather would have to be very extreme indeed before the service stopped running. Maybe icebergs floating in from the estuary – but even then the ferry service would probably be hauled across the ice, because the operators have such a determination to keep it going. “There’s no such thing as bad weather,” says Steve, as I shiver and wonder how they stand the temperatures for some 11 hours a day. I wondered how the ferrymen of the past managed when they didn’t have the kind of waterproof protection Steve
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wears when he jumps into the water to manoeuvre the vessel, because this ferry crossing is ancient. There has been a ferry (and sometimes two or three) linking the two sides of the river bank since at least the 11th century. In those first days, the anonymous owner of a coracle (a simple willow wand and bark vessel) used to carry people across the river in exchange for food. As the population grew, so did the number of times the ferry crossed, and a form of property right – the ‘right of ferry’ was invented and started to be passed from one person to another. The first mention of the ferry occurs in 1285-6 when “a deed of gift and conveyance in fee-farm for ever” was executed, by means of which “one carrying boat for passage of the water of Lenne called the Ferye, with all the liberty or right pertaining to same vessel” – this was sold to John Ode, a burgess of King’s Lynn, by Philip Peytuyn and his wife Agnes. The fee was princely for the time – no less than 40 silver marks and “a yearly rent of a clove.” It was such an important business that the document was drafted by the Town Clerk and witnessed by the Mayor, and its value can be gauged by the cost – 40 silver marks is the equivalent of £27,000 in today’s money. There was more than one crossing in these times, and the rights to ferry people across continued to pass from one burgess to another in a series of deals – John Ode himself passed his ferry rights on in the 1300s. The Trinity Guild bought the rights in 1392. The Guild was the forerunner of the corporation and was a powerful group of local merchants who sold the
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rights nine years later to the Outlaw Famly. The right to ferry goods and passengers was seen as so important the Corporation decided to keep it in their own hands and began to grant leases. John Bird paid for a seven-year lease – he had to pay not only an annual income but also a “brace of well-fatted swans” to the Mayor. Swans were the food of kings and nobles, so it says much about the appetites and ambitions of the Mayor of 1649. It wasn’t an easy fee to fulfil, and John Bird ended up paying out more silver to the Mayor instead. In the 18th century there were two ferry routes across the river and a number of ferrymen acquired the rights to the crossing. The line then dwindled to one – the busiest and most profitable route that exists today. For years the ferry continued to be leased out – and it was only in the 1970’s that the ferry rights were passed to the County Council after a period in 1967 when the pier on the West side was repaired. According to the historic notes prepared for the ferry company, the operating rights included a legal duty to provide the service and there were fears of closure in 1989. Since then the ferry returned to private ownership. The Kingstons – who had been running a boat repair business – bought the ferry rights in 2000. They’ve made huge investments over the years, not least in designing the vessel to suit the conditions of the river. And over the years there’ve been many different kinds of craft in use – from the small motorboat in 1920 to the open practical vessels of later years. During the 1960’s and 70’s, it’s said
the ferry crossed the river some 60 times a day, and housewives used it because they could get their prams on the ferry – but not on the buses. The ferry began to be seen as an amenity, a pleasure in its own right as much as a transport service for work or market. It’s an experience not to be missed today and is the first part of a range of walks on the West side. The Kingstons have had to develop special measures to meet the demands of the river and the siltation of the riverbed. It is witnessing this latter process (which they’ve to repeat day after day when the tide is low) that makes the passengers fiercely protective of their service and the Kingstons. The jetty on the town side needs extending over the glistening mudflats because the riverbed is getting shallower, and at low tide the Kingstons construct a portable walkway from the boat. It’s an adept process to see the walkway being unloaded from where it’s fitted on the boat and constructed in the grey water. Passengers help in a kind of silent sympathy. The river has always been prone to siltation, but the situation is worse these years with a lack of fresh water deepening the river channel. Normally, the water comes down from the Welney Wash. Steve Kingston would like to see a permanent extension – it would certainly save on labour. The ferry has a colourful history. Dukes and Kings have used it. It’s had its fair share of disasters, all safely embedded in the long past. It’s a distinctive and valued part of King’s Lynn’s heritage. There has always been a ferry from time beyond record – and it’s hard to imagine the river without one.
KLmagazine April 2012
Unique weddings
F
or a special and personal ‘dress of your dreams’ experience, there’s no better place than Unique Bride. Recently opened in the loft of a 15th century barn in Castle Rising, the location is a perfect setting to offset the loveliness of the dresses. Unique Bride stocks the award-winning Mori Lee range of bridal wear – which features traditional and original cuts in a range of colours, all glowing with the sophistication and exhilaration of beautiful fabric and gorgeous lace. There’s a wide price range, offering something for all pockets and every wedding location. There are dresses that are fantastic for weddings
abroad, ideal for church weddings and perfect for registry offices. The loft is also home to all the personal touches such as tiaras and wedding veils, long trains of lace and gloves in a room as enchanting as the dresses themselves, with ancient beams trailing ivy, cascades of flowers and the rich scent of roses. Binny and Sam manage Unique Bride and want to keep the service for brides small, intimate and one to one. Any fittings need to be booked in advance – so make a date for a uniquely sumptuous, elegant wedding dress dream experience. It is, in fact, unique.
Castle Rising, King’s Lynn, Norfolk PE31 6AG Tel: 01553 631500 Web: www.uniquegiftsandinteriors.co.uk E-mail: uniquegifts.castlerising@btconnect.com
Luxury Rooms, Fine Dining & Great Golf
Heacham Manor Hotel is undoubtedly one of the finest hotels on the Hunstanton coastline. An attractive carrstone Manor House surrounded by charming gardens & our 18 hole golf course set in coastal parkland, making the hotel a perfect setting for a special, relaxing break.
s ,UXURIOUS EN SUITE ROOMS IN THE -ANOR (OUSE
With luxurious en-suite rooms in the Manor House & 1, 2 or 3 bedroom cottages, we can offer Bed & Breakfast or Self Catering, something for everyone!
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HOLIDAY BREAKS BY COACH KITCHENS | BEDROOMS | BATHROOMS | APPLIANCES | TILES
FIRST WORLD WAR BATTLEFIELDS Somme 96th Anniversary Weekend (29th June - 2nd July) Armistice 94th Anniversary Weekend (9th - 12th November) This memorable commemorative tour has a very easy and relaxing itinerary based in the Lille area of Northern France, which is ideally located for the programme of sightseeing excursions and visits. 3 nights room and breakfast, full-day excursion to the Somme, including Thiepval and Vimy Ridge; full-day excursion to Flanders including Ypres, Sanctuary Wood, Passchendale, Tyne Cot and the “Last Post” ceremony. £245 per person Breaks depart from King’s Lynn and include home pick-up within the local area. For futher details please us!
PARIS 4 days Enjoy a fantastic long weekend break to this amazing city. 3 nights accommodation with breakfast included and a programme of excursions – Paris city tour, Paris by night, River Seine trip and a visit to the Palace of Versailles. Travel by coach with return Channel crossings. These popular breaks are available on several dates with prices. From £265 per person
TORQUAY (Monday 16th July) 4 DAYS Half-board accommodation at the Bancourt Hotel with indoor swimming pool and excursions to Totnes, Dartmouth, Buckfast Abbey and Brixham included. £265 per person
West Norfolk Travel 2 King Street, King’s Lynn Tel: 01553 772910 Web: www.westnorfolktravel.co.uk Email: wntravel@btconnect.com
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OUR QUALITY AND OUR SERVICE IS THE FOUNDATION OF OUR SUCCESS
UP TO 50% OFF
SELECTED KITCHENS! l Complete fitting service l FREE planning and design l Supply-only available l Experienced in-house fitters OPEN: 9-5pm weekdays 9-4.30pm Saturdays
The Precinct, 15 Plowright Place ESTABLISHED Swaffham Tel: 01760 724306 FOR 29 YEARS! E9183
www.harmonykitchens.com KLmagazine April 2012
FOOD & DRINK
Chicken with Herbs & Kalamata Olives
RECIPE: Paul Hegeman PHOTO: Jason Hamilton
INGREDIENTS 1 kg boneless skinless chicken thigh fillets 150g kalamata olives 1 onion, thinly sliced 1tbs fresh rosemary, chopped 1tbs fresh thyme, chopped 2½ tsp garlic, finely chopped 4 anchovy fillets, chopped 2½ tbs extra virgin olive oil 160ml red wine vinegar 160ml white wine sea salt flakes and ground pepper Small bunch of arugula leaves (optional)
Preparation Time: 25 minutes Cooking Time: 12 minutes Serves: 6 KLmagazine April 2012
INSTRUCTIONS 1 Trim the thigh fillets of excess fat and slice into 3cm strips and remove the pits from the olives 2 Heat the olive oil in a large heavy-based frying pan over high heat, add the chicken, season with the salt and pepper and sauté for 1-2 minutes 3 Add the onion, anchovies, garlic and herbs and sauté for a further 2 minutes, stirring occasionally 4 Add the olives and sauté for 2-3 minutes, add the white wine to deglaze pan, reduce the heat, cover and allow to simmer for 4-5 minutes 5 Return heat to high, add the vinegar and stir to combine. Taste for seasoning and serve immediately with some ciabatta bread, some steamed or grilled vegetables, and a nice pinot noir. 35
SATISFACTION BY DESIGN kitchens
bedrooms
bathrooms Professionally-trained staff – good for you, good for your business! Cost-effective staff training from the local professionals ION! FREE DESIGN & QUOTATLL SUPPLY ONLY – OR FU TTERS! N FI INSTALLATION BY OUR OW
DATES AVAIL THROUGHOU ABLE T 2012
Prices from on ly person and from £25 per only £200 for group (1215 people) and on-site bo okings
First Aid at Work | Emergency First Aid | Child Protection CIEH Training Skills | Food Safety | Health & Safety Moving and Handling | Conflict Resolution/Personal Safety For a complete list of our 2012 courses and prices, please contact us using the details below
Nelson House, Bergen Way, King’s Lynn PE30 2JH Telephone: 01553 766578
VISIT OUR WEBSITE: WWW.TOWNCOUNTRYKITCHENS.COM 36
P&K Training Services St Ann’s House, St Ann’s Street, King’s Lynn, Norfolk Tel: 01553 692045 E-mail: angela@pktrainingservices.co.uk Web: www.pktrainingservices.co.uk PROFESSIONAL TRAINING, PROFESSIONAL RESULTS
KLmagazine April 2012
COOKS
CORNER
with Melanie Done
The best kitchen aids – literally!
I
f, like me, you keep seeing KitchenAid Artisan Stand Mixers on every cooking programme on television at the moment you may be interested to learn a bit more about them. Founded in 1897, the Hobart Electric Manufacturing Company made kitchen equipment for restaurants and industrial kitchens. Hobart introduced the first freestanding stand mixer in 1919, which was dubbed by an executive’s wife as “the best kitchen aid”, and the brand was born. In 1924 the company was renamed the KitchenAid Manufacturing Company, and its headquarters were set up in Dayton, Ohio in the United States. Over the years the design has been refined, new attachments designed and a wide colour palette introduced, giving us the iconic machine we now know, but it’s still made in Ohio to this day. The robust full metal
construction makes the mixer very stable, combined with the direct drive motor which is quiet; it is long lasting with fewer parts to go wrong. The motor has 10 speeds, allowing you to start mixing on a low setting avoiding any splatters and flour clouds. During mixing, the KitchenAid uses a unique planetary action – meaning that as the beater revolves around the bowl in one direction, it spins in the opposite direction. This means cakes are light and fluffy and it’s also great for batters and even mashing potato! A 4.83 litre stainless steel bowl comes as standard along with a pouring shield, flat beater, wire whisk and dough hook, but the KitchenAid stand mixer is more than just a mixer. With its attachment hub and optional attachments your versatile mixer can become a pasta machine, an ice-cream maker, electric can opener, juicer, food processor or mincer. A KitchenAid Artisan stand mixer really is an
investment for your kitchen which will make daily cooking tasks easier. For a limited time only, we’re offering a FREE Rotor Vegetable Slicer and Shredder worth £67 with every KitchenAid Artisan Mixer purchased! This will slice and shred vegetables to be eaten raw (ideal for making coleslaw), as well as nuts for baking, chocolate and fruit. We do hold a stock of mixers – but as you can appreciate with such a wide range available we don’t have all colours. The good news is that a deposit of £100 secures a KitchenAid mixer, and if ordered before 4pm, and it’s in stock with our supplier, you could have the colour of your dreams the next working day!
M el
Cake Tin & Stand Hire We offer an extensive cake tin and stand hire service, including round, square, oval, hexagon, petal, heart, numbers, mini’s and novelty tins Stands are suitable for one cake up to 190 cupcakes. We charge only £2 for 24 hours per tin, plus £10 refundable cash deposit. Charges for stands vary with size.
PROUD SPONSORS OF MELANIE DONE is the joint owner of Cook to Perfection 47 High Street, King’s Lynn PE30 1BE Telephone: 01553 767575 Website: www.cooktoperfection.co.uk
KLmagazine April 2012
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FOOD & DRINK
RestaurantReview
We’re continuing to sample some of the area’s best dining experiences, and this month, we sent KL magazine’s Theresa Kelly off to Stow Bardolph...
P
arts of this review may come as a surprise to many of you, as the Hare Arms in Stow Bardolph has a very good reputation and is a very popular destination with both locals and tourists alike. However, I can only write an honest appraisal of my own personal experience on my recent visit. Stow Bardolph is a very small village just off the A10 next to Downham Market. It looks a very traditional pub both on the exterior and interior. I arrived before my dining partner and was made to feel very welcome as I approached the bar. I ordered a diet Coke while I waited and felt reassured that the staff chatted to me to make me feel less awkward as I was standing on my own. It was a sunny day, so once my friend arrived we decided to sit at a table in the conservatory. The menus were very extensive and had quite a range of dishes – from your standard sandwiches and jacket potatoes to more traditional pub foods such as steaks, pies, chilli con carne and lasagne, and included a number of restaurant-standard options such as fish dishes and unique salads.
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We waited for some time while the staff cleared away tables around us, and when we finally asked if we could place an order, we were told we had to return to the bar in order to do so. I was a little disappointed with this set-up as my only previous experience of this was in chains such as Weatherspoons, and I had the impression the Hare Arms was of a higher standard than this. Also, it might have helped if this could have been explained to us upon arriving. When at the bar, I asked if I could be given more details about two dishes I was deciding between – the whole sea bass and a salmon and crayfish salad. The answer I received was that one was hot and the other was cold! With the limited information I was given, I opted for the sea bass (the hot dish!) and my friend ordered the Haddock Fillet. When our main dishes were brought out, I was a little perturbed to see my whole sea bass retained its head and I must admit I was a little put off. Had I been in a fine dining restaurant, I’d have expected this to be the case, but (perhaps naively) thought that wouldn’t be the case in a traditional pub. Nonetheless, this was the kind of information that would have been
helpful (and obvious) upon me asking for more information on the dishes. The garden salad that accompanied it was very small – a bit of lettuce leaf, cucumber, red onion and tomato that had been tossed on the side. With no dressing and no presentation, it was a little unappetising to eat. My friend was given a lasagne-style dish that had been baked and covered in sauce. We looked at each other blankly as this wasn’t quite what we were expecting from a haddock fillet. When we looked back over the specials menu, we saw Smoked Haddock and Crayfish Tail bake and realised when I ordered the haddock the wrong haddock dish and been prepared for us. Again though, this surely should have been the waitress’ job to clarify when two (very different) haddock dishes were on the specials menu? We didn’t want to make a complaint as it would’ve meant us eating our meals separately, so tried to tuck into what had been given. To be fair, the sea bass was cooked very well, although though the tiny salad left me feeling very hungry. For dessert I was very impressed again with the menu – almost every dessert you could think of was there, and I hoped this would end our meal well. I opted for the Carrot Cake with fresh cream and my friend the Treacle Pudding with custard. The portion sizes were very generous as were the jugs of cream and custard that accompanied it. Unfortunately for me the carrot cake didn’t taste as good as it looked. It was very dry and seemed a few days old like it had been left out. Though my friend enjoyed her treacle pudding. I continue to hear very favourable feedback on the Hare Arms and understand they are popular for their award-winning steak and peppercorn pie. Conseqently, I would definitely try this restaurant again – but next time I’d order more traditional pub dishes and steer clear of the fresh cakes.
FOOD
SERVICE
VALUE
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THE HARE ARMS Stow Bardolph, King’s Lynn Norfolk PE34 3HT Tel: 01366 382229 Web: www.theharearms.co.uk
KLmagazine April 2012
CafeReview
ENJOY A VERY HAPPY EASTER BREAKFAST WITH THE EASTER BUNNY!
W
hilst in Fakenham with my mother this month we opted for a spot of lunch in Shapes Restaurant situated within Aldiss. As I entered I was pleasantly surprised at the wide selection of foods out on display, and the large choice of lunch options on the menu board high above the counter. The fresh baked goods on display quickly caught my eye, and I promptly decided on a pot of tea for two and a large cheese scone. My mother ordered a Ploughman’s Platter served with salad, pickled onions, apple wedges, mature cheddar, brie and a warmed baguette on the side! We found a table for two and each poured a well-earned cup of English Breakfast tea. Within a couple of minutes our food order was brought to the table. We were both overwhelmed by the sheer size of the Ploughman’s Platter. It had generous helpings of everything listed and it tasted very fresh. Whilst the platter was being enjoyed I tucked into my cheese scone, which I must say didn't disappoint. I cut my usual three slices and applied lavish amounts of butter which complemented it perfectly. Once we’d finished we chose to sit a little longer to finish our chat and remaining tea. The staff, seeing that we’d finished, made their way over to us to ask if we wanted the table cleared, which we politely accepted. All in all it was a lovely lunch for little over £10 – albeit the Ploughman’s Platter was too big for one person in our opinion! SHAPES RESTAURANT Oxborough Lane, Fakenham, Norfolk NR21 8AF Tel: 0845 1303388 KLmagazine April 2012
Don’t miss all the fun – a special way to start the day from 8:30am–10:30am on Good Friday, Easter Saturday, Easter Sunday and Easter Monday!
Playzone Kid’s Par ties! You’re invited to join the fun! Hot and cold buffet food, party bags, balloons, cake, invitations, choice of activity and lots more! Book today! ! Only £7.99 per child
Clenchwarton Road, West Lynn King’s Lynn PE34 3LJ
Tel: 01553 772221 39
FOOD & DRINK
LocalTastes Selected by Theresa Kelly
NELSON’S BLOOD BITTER FOX BREWERY (Heacham) This unusual ale is a combination of a crisp Fox bitter (which is nice enough in itself) and ‘Nelson’s Blood’ – which is a unique blend of rum and spices from the Lord Nelson in Burnham Thorpe. (5.1% abv) MEN OF NORFOLK ICENI BREWERY (Ickburgh) This rich stout comes in an larger bottle than most bottled beers – together with an attractive sepia label and champagne cork. It’s dark brown in colour, slightly sweet and has a distinct hint of liquorice. The classy presentation makes this a great gift. (6.2% abv) NORFOLK NIP WOODFORDE’S BREWERY (Woodbastwick) An original beer that uses a recipe from the former Steward and Patteson brewery in Norwich. The six months it spends maturing in the cask gives it a sweet, tropical fruit taste with a hint of molasses. Best of all, it keeps for up to two years – if you can resist it! (8.5% abv)
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here are few things better than a really good local beer – and Norfolk is blessed with some truly talented home-grown breweries. Here are just a few of my favourite bottled local brews, but there’s plenty more where they came from! Make a point of buying local and you’ll discover just how good a real beer can be!
ELVEDEN ALE ELVEDEN BREWERY (Elveden) Bottled in stone flagons like the ales of old, and topped with a swing stopper, this is a strong ale with a fruity aroma and a lovely hoppy finish. (5.2% abv)
% 0 0 1UalITY Q
% 0 0 1 al loc
Don’t miss our great speciality pies from our in-store bakery!
John’s
Free range pork Free range lamb Scottish beef Buy local and taste the difference!
quality butchers
4 Wales Court, Downham Market, Norfolk Tel: 01366 388377 E-mail: john@johnsqualitybutchers.co.uk
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en on Order now! We’re op m 1a -1 m Good Friday 7a
Packed with fresh ideas for a very happy Easter! l Cromer Crabs now available! l Fresh and smoked salmon l Brancaster oysters l Frozen game, pheasants, mallards and pigeons l Free range eggs l Hand-carved ham on the bone
Plus!
Extensive delicatessen counter with top quality cheeses and olives from home and abroad!
DONALDSONS A fresh taste of the sea
Austin Fields, King’s Lynn | Tel: 01553 772241 OPEN: Tues/Wed 7am-4pm, urs/Fri 7am-5pm, Sat 7am-3pm
KLmagazine April 2012
Eating Out The Ancient Mariner Inn Galley Restaurant Golf Course Road, Old Hunstanton 01485 536389
The Crown Inn Gastro pub The Green, East Rudham 01485 528530 www.thecrowneastrudham.co.uk
Bank House Brasserie Brasserie food, British Classics Bank House Hotel King’s Staithe Square, Kings Lynn 01553 660492 www.thebankhouse.co.uk
The Deer’s Leap 361 Wootton Road, South Wootton King’s Lynn 01553 671919 www.thedeersleap.co.uk
Best Western Knight’s Hill Hotel Garden restaurant South Wootton, King’s Lynn 01553 675 566 Best Western Le Strange Hotel Golf Course Road, Old Hunstanton 01485 536389
D’Inacios 9 Newmans Yard, Norwich Road, Fakenham 01328 851247 www.dinacios.co.uk The Duck Inn Good locally-sourced food Burnham Road, Stanhoe 01485 518330 www.duckinn.co.uk
Bradley’s Restaurant and wine bar 10 South Quay, Kings Lynn 01553 819888 www.bradleysbytheriver.co.uk
The Gin Trap Inn Gastro Pub 6 High Street, Ringstead, Hunstanton 01485 525264 www.gintrapinn.co.uk
Brewer’s Fayre Premier Inn West Lynn, King’s Lynn 01553 772221 www.premierinn.com
The Hare Arms Varied fine dining Stow Bardolph, Kings Lynn 01366 382229 www.theharearms.co.uk
Briarfields Titchwell, Hunstanton 01485 210742 www.briarfieldshotelnorfolk.co.uk
Heacham Manor Hotel Varied fine dining Hunstanton Road, Heacham 01485 536030 www.heacham-manor.co.uk
Caley Hall Hotel Gastro pub Old Hunstanton Road, Hunstanton 01485 533486 www.caleyhallhotel.co.uk Congham Hall Fine dining Lynn Road, Grimston 01485 600250 www.conghamhallhotel.co.uk The Crown and Mitre King’s Lynn’s only traditional riverside pub. Great English food using only fresh locally-sourced ingredients. Ferry Street, King’s Lynn 01553 774669
KLmagazine April 2012
The Hoste Arms Fine foods and wine The Green, Burnham Market 01328 738777 www.hostearms.co.uk The Jolly Sailors Pub favourites Brancaster, Kings Lynn 01485 210314 www.jollysailorsbrancaster.co.uk The Kings Head Hotel Award-winning fine dining Great Bircham, King’s Lynn 01485 578265 www.thekingsheadhotel.co.uk
The King William IV Country Inn and Restaurant Heacham Road, Sedgeford 01485571765 www.thekingwilliamsedgeford.co.uk Leziate Park Local English Cuisine Brow of the Hill, Leziate, King’s Lynn 01553 630393 www.leziatepark.co.uk The Lodge Old Hunstanton 01485 532896 www.thelodgehunstanton.co.uk Market Bistro English Cuisine 11 Saturday Market Place, King’s Lynn 01553 771483 www.marketbistro.co.uk The Neptune Inn and Restaurant 85 Old Hunstanton Road, Old Hunstanton 01485 532122 www.theneptune.co.uk The Old Bank Fine food, local ingredients 10 Lynn Road, Snettisham 01485 544080 The Orange Tree New takes on pub classics and seafood High Street, Thornham 01485 512213 www.theorangetreethornham.co.uk
The Riverside Restaurant English Cuisine 27 King Street, King’s Lynn 01553 773134 The Rose and Crown Traditional pub favourites Old Church Road, Snettisham 01485 541382 www.roseandcrownsnettisham.co.uk The Rose and Crown Great food in a great atmosphere Nethergate Street, Harpley Norfolk PE31 6TW 01485 521807 The Sandboy Pub favourites and Thai cuisine Gayton Road, Bawsey 01553 630527 www.thesandboy.co.uk The Swan Inn South Wootton, King’s Lynn 01553 672084 Timbers Hotel & Restaurant A la carte and traditional pub food Lynn Road, Fincham 01366 347747 www.timbershotel.co.uk Titchwell Manor Traditional and modern infusion Titchwell, Kings Lynn 01485 210221 www.titchwellmanor.com W4 Authentic Italian cuisine 1 Exchange Square, Wisbech 01945 584454 www.w-four-restaurant.com
Palmers British Brasserie 45 High Street, Downham Market. 01366 388124 www.palmersrestaurant.co.uk
A taste of West Norfolk If we’ve missed your favourite local restaurant from this list, we’d love to hear from you – and so would our readers. Send the details to us at features@klmagazine.co.uk, and remember to pass on any fine dining tips, advice or recommendations as well! 41
FOOD & DRINK
IN THE KITCHEN WITH TERESA KELLY
Much ado about mushrooms I
’ll always remember learning that no one ever really bothered to define the terms ‘mushroom’ and toadstool’ and that the distinction between the two isn’t very clearcut at all. Generally, we use ‘mushroom’ to describe edible fungi, and ‘toadstool’ to describe the poisonous ones (or the ones in fairy tales) – but since there’s really no difference between the two (other than the obvious one!) the humble mushroom can be edible, poisonous, or simply unpalatable. There’s a very simple message here – you should never, never, never pick or eat any mushroom growing in the wild unless you can positively identify it. The good news is that most mushrooms sold in supermarkets have been commercially grown on mushroom farms in controlled, sterilized environments. They’re perfectly safe and perfectly tasty. You need to choose your mushrooms carefully as they tend to turn limp very quickly and lose their flavour. Avoid any that have broken caps, bruised or wrinkled dry patches or that look slimy or sweaty. All mushrooms are best used on the day of purchase, although cultivated ones will keep for up to three days in the refrigerator. They’ll sweat if stored
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in plastic, so keep them in a paper bag, or wrapped in kitchen paper. You can freeze mushrooms – slice them and either sauté in butter or oil, steam or blanch before cooling to room temperature and packing in rigid containers. Cook them from frozen unless stir-frying, when you’ll need to thaw them first to avoid being splashed by hot oil when you add them to the pan. Opinion is divided over whether to lightly rinse mushrooms or to simply
wipe them with a damp cloth – I prefer the latter – but there’s no need to peel the stems before steaming, frying or grilling mushrooms unless they’re particularly thick or discoloured. Butter, cream, parsley and garlic all add flavour to mushrooms, and however you use them – in sauces, curries, bakes, omelettes, stews or salads – you’ll discover why the humble mushroom is considered the meat of the vegetable world. Enjoy!
KLmagazine March 2012
Ask the
EXPERT
Stuck for a recipe? Can’t find an ingredient? Don’t know whether garlic should be crushed or sliced? Ask Teresa and she’ll point you in the right direction...
Fine Fitted Furniture designed and built in our King’s Lynn Factory
Q
I had some baked camembert in a restaurant recently, and I’d love to do some at home – but how long do I have to bake it for?
A
Preheat your oven to 220c. Unwrap the cheese, and carefully slice the rind off the top of the cheese. Return the cheese to its box, cut-side up, and place the box on a baking sheet. Season the camembert with sea salt and some freshly ground pepper (I like to sprinkle over some thyme leaves and drizzle with a little olive oil). Bake it for 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is browned on top and melted inside. Allow it to cool slightly, then serve with a bread such as ciabatta or some fresh baguettes.
Q
I cooked some pork for the first time recently, and though I followed the recipe, the crackling didn’t crispen up – it said I had to score the fat, cook at 230c for 25 minutes and then for 35 minutes per pound at 190c. Where did I go wrong?
Creating rooms you’ll love to live in
A
Are you sure the recipe said score the ‘fat’? It’s actually the skin that makes the crackling, and the skin should be scored through to the fat underneath. It should be dry and at room temp if possible. Give it a good dredging of salt, and put into a very hot oven for 20-30 minutes. When the crackling is brown enough, lay a piece of foil over the top and turn the oven down to 180c. That works for me every time.
Q
I love olive oil with chilli, and wondered if it’s possible to make my own. Do I just pop the chillis in a bottle of olive oil and wait?
A
The best way to make your own is to gently warm 450ml of olive oil (not virgin) in a saucepan. Add 20g of chilli flakes and 3 or 4 whole chillies to the oil and heat for 3-4 minutes. Remove from the heat and leave the oil to cool slightly. Then carefully pour it into a sterilised, sealable glass bottle using a funnel (please remember that hot oil can be dangerous). Add the chilli flakes and the dried chillies from the pan, seal the bottle and keep it in a cool, dark place, shaking the bottle once a week. As time goes on, you’ll find the oil will become redder and hotter.
Q
I have a nice recipe for a traditional steak, kidney and Guinesss pie, but it doesn’t actually say what size pie dish to use. The recipe involves 3lb of meat (and then the gravy) and will be for 4-6 people. Any ideas?
A
I would suggest you buy a 1.2-litre to 2-litre pie dish. I have a similar (and very successful!) recipe for steak and ale pie that serves six people, and I always use a 1.2 litre dish.
KLmagazine March 2012
48 Bergen Way, North Lynn Industrial Estate King’s Lynn PE30 2JG Telephone: 01553 762749 Open: Mon-Fri 9am–5:30pm Sat 9am–4pm
www.kingsoakkitchens.co.uk
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LOCAL LIFE
T
he village of Sutton Bridge in the early 19th century consisted of a few farmhouses and cottages straggled along the track which passed for a main road. Consecrated in 1843, the beautiful parish church (right) is dedicated to St Matthew, and is the only intstone church in Lincolnshire.
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KLmagazine April 2012
&
OUT & ABOUT
Long Sutton Sutton Bridge Pictures: Grant Murray
T
he famous swing bridge which spans the River Nene is known as Crosskeys Bridge, and was built in 1897 at a cost of £80,000 – it’s actually the third bridge to cross the river. The bridge was originally dual purpose, serving both road and rail traffic until 1965 when the railway closed. The first bridge( which opened in 1831) was designed by John Rennie the Younger and Thomas Telford as part of the Wash Embankment works. It was a timber and cast iron construction and opened up rather like London’s famous Tower Bridge. However, it was eventually found to be awkwardly sited and in 1850 its replacement (designed by Robert Stephenson) was opened. The position of the second bridge was approximately halfway between the original and the present-day bridge. It was a swing bridge and used only for road traffic until 1864 when the Midland Railway acquired powers to also use it for rail traffic. When the current bridge was constructed it was hoped the 1850 bridge could be left in position for rail use – but the river authorities decided two bridges so close together constituted a hazard for shipping, and it was removed.
KLmagazine April 2012
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OUT & ABOUT
Long Sutton & Sutton Bridge
T
he name Sutton can be traced back to 979AD when the settlement was known as ‘Suthtun’ (meaning ‘South Farm’) – it was granted by King Ethelred to Bishop Ethelwold for the benefit of the Old Minster of Winchester, and formed part of the huge ecclesiastical manor of Crondall (Long Sutton farmers actually continued to be tenants of the great cathedral at Winchester until the late 19th century). In 1244 the village became known as Longa Sutton, and during the 18th century it was known as Sheep Sutton on account of sheep being the mainstay of local farmers, but reverted to Long Sutton during the 19th century. Sutton Bridge was once marshland, reclaimed from the sea from the 16th century onwards. In fact, even in the 19th century there was nothing more than a few cottages along the road from Lynn to Spalding. The River Nene was much wider and there was no bridge, so it had to be crossed at low tide with great care and a guide. It’s said that in 1216 King John’s crown jewels were lost in the Wash during the crossing on a journey from King’s Lynn to Swineshead. As the King had travelled by the safer inland route of Wisbech, no one can actually be sure if the jewels are still in the marshes somewhere or whether they were stolen and never actually went in at all. For many years the town (or village as it was then) wanted to make the most of the river to boost local economy, so in 1875 the Sutton Bridge Dock Act was passed, authorising the construction of the dock, quayside, jetty and link to the railway network. The dock was completed in May 1881 with the official opening planned for 29th June with public festivities. However, on 9th June the land began to slip and by the following week, the whole dock had collapsed. The work of 100 men, 50 horses and carts, a steam dredger and several barges had all been in vain. The dock area then lay untouched for over 100 years – as the present Port Sutton Bridge wasn’t opened until 1987.
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S
t Mary’s Church is famous for its 13th century lead-covered timber spire. This is a similar design to Chesterfield’s famous twisted spire but Long Sutton’s spire still stands straight and true – it’s now the highest, oldest and bestpreserved lead spire in England and possibly Europe.
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ong Sutton’s village pump – which pre-dates the supply of piped water to all houses – stands by the church. The wooden casing bears the crest of Long Sutton Urban District Council.
KLmagazine April 2012
Clocks
Painted furniture
Canvases
Occasional chairs
Oak furniture
Gifts
GIFTS & INTERIORS
TIME OUT HAIR & BEAUTY
Late appointments available on ursday and Friday
4 High Street, Long Sutton PE12 9DB | Tel: 01406 366789 Open: Mon-Fri 9am-5pm, Sat 9am-4pm | Closed on Wednesdays
Silverwood St James Road, Long Sutton PE12 9AU GARDEN CENTRE, NURSERY & GARDENS A fantastic choice for all your gardening needs, hand-crafted gifts and unusual, bygone and stone items NEW! Full range of workshops from bricklaying and block paving to sewing, quilting, scrapping, rag rugs, photography, etc. Hire a space to hold your own workshop – cards, crochet, woodworking... make us a suggestion!
VINTAGE STYLE SHOP & THE WORKROOM For all your sewing needs and fabrics and lots, lots more! Meet & Make, Sip & Sew, Kit & Knatter, Here Comes the Girls. Drop off and collect sewing machine servicing and repairs. Step back in time with Gardener’s Retreat, Mend my Muscles, Fuss my Feet, Help my Hands and Soothe my Spirit. OPENING SOON: The Yarn Shack
DON’T FORGET!
Outfits and millinery for your special occasions
Cindy’s of Sutton Bridge
The perfect way to end your visit to Silverwood is to enjoy the good wholesome food in our Tearoom/Licensed Restaurant
108 Bridge Road, Sutton Bridge PE12 9SA Telephone: 01406 350961
NEW WEBSITE: www.silverwoodcentre.com
Sizes 10 - 26 | Closed Wednesdays
STORE TEAROOM 01406 365948 01406 364644 KLmagazine April 2012
OFFICE 01406 364364
www.cindysfashions.co.uk 47
ABOVE: Carl, Paddy and Jason Green – the family behind the 30-year success of GE-BE Transport
The family firm that’s driven by success... GE-BE Transport is a family firm that’s celebrating 30 years in business. KL magazine visits the lady behind the King’s Lynn haulage company to discover more...
U
nlikely as it might seem, a chance conversation in a pub about haulage back in 1982 changed Paddy Green’s life. In the year of the Falklands War and the launch of Channel 4, she and her husband David were talking about a contract that had been lost by their current employer, which in turn led to the landlord suggesting the couple go into business and do the work themselves. With hindsight, it was an inspired suggestion. Shortly afterwards, GE–BE Transport was launched – with just one 3.5 tonne Mercedes truck and a refusal to give in – today, the company has no
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less than 30 lorries on the road. “I was in the office and my husband did the driving,” says Paddy, who’s the company’s Managing Director. “I went through the phone directory and rang all the businesses I could think of. Shortly afterwards, the phone started ringing and it went from there.” Six months after the launch Paddy’s 17-year-old son Jason came into the fledgling business and began driving the Mazda pick-up the company had just bought. Realising that GE–BE could grow, the Greens started sending out their younger son Carl with Jason so that he could begin learning the ropes too,
although the excitement of building a family business was somewhat lost on him during those early days. “He fell asleep all the time,” Paddy remembers fondly. Today, both sons are company directors – Carl running the GE-BE side of the business, with Jason overseeing the Palletforce work. In order to take on larger vehicles and compete with the haulage industry, Paddy took her CPC (Certificate of Professional Competence) in 1985 – a qualification needed to put a 7.5 tonner and even larger lorries on the road as a legal requirement from the Ministry. The company has since moved on to 18 tonners and eventually artics.
KLmagazine April 2012
CELEBRATING 30 YEARS
Taking pride of place in the current GE-BE fleet are the specially-painted vehicles celebrating the company’s 25th and 30th anniversaries – including Paddy’s Dream (right) with its iconic images of King’s Lynn and the 30th anniversary lorry, which proudly has the story of GE-BE airbrushed on it – from the very first lorries and premises to the present day.
As the business grew, more customers came on board and the firm started transporting office stationery, commercial refrigeration products and – more recently – paper products. A large paper producing company is one of GE-BE’s newest customers, and they’re one of the few hauliers in the UK who’ve been chosen to handle that work. Carl Green explains that the firm began by sending out just one or two lorries a day as a trial, but the agreement now sees GE-BE accommodating several loads of paper products depending on current requirements. This prudent, cautious approach to business and an unwillingness to
DAVE’S DREAM Undoubtedly the biggest blow to the company over the past 30 years was the sudden and premature death of Paddy’s husband David in 1995. In addition to the tireless work he was doing for the business, David was also three years into a restoration project on a dilapidated 1943 Austin K2 truck he’d bought with his son Jason for £750. After David’s death is was given to local man Colin Howard to complete as a tribute to one of GE–BE’s founders. Today, the immaculately restored vehicle – christened Dave’s Dream – is frequently exhibited, and has won awards at Truckfest and several classic vehicle festivals and is a great promotional tool for the company. “It cost £12,000 to restore and the bank manager wasn’t impressed,” says Paddy, “but it’s out pride and joy.”
KLmagazine April 2012
overstetch themselves despite the temptation seems fundamental to the company’s success. “In the beginning we grew with our customers,” Paddy remembers. “If they grew then we bought another lorry! That’s the way we’ve always approached business – our success is really a reflection of the success of our customers, and they’ve always been very loyal.” Today, those customers include mineral companies and book binders, manufacturers of garden furniture, products as diverse as salt and charcoal, and many more products from several customers. GE–BE is also a founding member of Palletforce,
having worked successfully with the national distribution network since 2002. Paddy explains that despite initial reticence – mainly regarding whether or not the company could afford to be involved, the decision to cover the PE postcodes has proven to be the right one. “We don’t have to say no to a customer anymore if they only have one pallet to go somewhere,” she says. “We don’t have to say no to anyone.” Paddy admits that she doesn’t switch off when she goes home, and that the pressures of running a successful business in 2012 can keep her awake at night. “The boys have taken a lot off me, though,” she adds. “It’s very hard, and every day I think about doing fewer hours – then something happens and I’m here all day!” The idea of seeing herself in this position 30 years ago makes her laugh. “We just bought the 3.5 tonner and didn’t really think about what it would turn into. I sometimes think ‘how have we lasted?’ – we’re not really educated, but I suppose it’s just sheer hard work. and common sense. “Of course, we couldn’t have done it without all our loyal customers who’ve helped us and our fantastic staff – we’d be nowhere without them.”
Details GE-BE TRANSPORT LTD Acer Road, Saddlebow Industrial Estate, King’s Lynn, Norfolk PE34 3HN Tel: 01553 764146 E-mail: carl@gebetransport.co.uk Web: www.gebetransport.co.uk
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We’re here to help Our professional team is packed with experience – and full of friendly advice. If you have any questions, please call 01553 768448 and we’ll be happy to help in any way we can.
NEW TEETH FOR A NEW LIFE
At our dental implant centre we can give you back fixed teeth and you never have to wear a denture again. Dental implants is a safe and reliable treatment concept and in all our completed cases we’ve seen an immense change in the quality of our patients’ lives. We treat everything from a single missing tooth to full sets. We also specialise in cosmetic improvements by using a combination of crowns, veneers and implants we can give you a smile to be proud of.
Call for a FREE consultation or further information on our smile makeovers
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10 Stonegate Street, King’s Lynn PE30 5EF Tel: 01553 768448 E-mail: info@denprac.co.uk
KLmagazine April 2012
HEALTH & BEAUTY
FeetFirst
Feeling the Light Fantastic!
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t’s not quite a cure-all, but it’s nearly there! Laser isn’t just the thing of sci-fi movies, light shows and hospitals. It can also be used for tissue repair and wound management such as ulcers, sores and scarring; pain relief and rehabilitation such as osteoarthritis, carpal tunnel, sprains and strains; and skin conditions and viral infections such as acne, psoriasis, cold sores, warts and verrucae. Laser’s great, really! In fact, at the Foot Care Centre, we’re already currently using laser techniques to successfully treat fungal nail infections, skin infections, plantar fasciitis, strains, bruising and verrucae – and if that’s not amazing enough, we’re introducing laser treatment to enable hair removal, fine lines, stretch marks and warts!
JUST PUBLISHED ON KINDLE! The first of Elizabeth Dutton’s books, entitled Essential Foot Care for Diabetics is now available to read as an e–book. No Kindle? No problem – you can get a free app from the Kindle store, so you can download a Kindle book to your computer or mobile device.
An Easter treat! Treat yourself or a loved one to a one-hour Medi-Pedi, paraffin wax treatment and foot massage for just £40 – a saving of £8! – and book a Laser Treatment in April to receive a 10% discount! To claim your discount, quote LT-0412 when you book, or bring this coupon in with you
KLmagazine April 2012
with Elizabeth Dutton
HAIR TODAY, GONE TOMORROW! We’ve spoken before about laser treatments for verrucae and plantar fasciitis, so this month we’ll look at hair removal. Laser is very effective for this, and people ask why, in that case, do we need more than one treatment to get rid of hair? Well, permanent hair removal is a gradual process which takes 90 days or more for the complete destruction of the follicle tissue. It goes like this: – each hair must go through its entire growth cycle for it to be effectively treated – now, human skin has roughly 1,000 follicles per square inch, but only a small percentage are in an active phase at any given time – for the hair to be treated and destroyed it must be in its active phase – this means the treatment needs to be done over a few sessions – hair growth activity will normally stop within 3 months ABOUT LASER Laser is an acronym that stands for Light Amplification by the Stimulated Emission of Radiation. The LLLP (low level laser therapy) used in the Foot
Care Centre safely penetrates the surface of the skin and helps promote healing of damaged tissues and pain relief. HOW LASER HELPS TISSUES REPAIR The low level light stimulates a biomechanical response in the cells of the tissues to help capillaries dilate, stimulate the growth factor response, and initiate a body’s ability to heal. HOW LASER DECREASES PAIN Pain relief is brought about through the stimulation of endorphin release; endorphins help to block the pain receptors, helping provide effective pain relief.
All you need to know...
ELIZABETH DUTTON is a qualified foot health care practitioner and trainer. Elizabeth and her qualified team offer treatments from the Foot Care Centre, 4B Tower St, King’s Lynn, PE30 1EJ. For more information, details, help and advice please contact Elizabeth’s centre in King’s Lynn. You’ll find the Centre’s website at www.TheFootCareCentreKingsLynn.co.uk For details of how to train as a foot care practitioner please see the website at www.TheCollegeOfFootCarePractitioners.co.uk (note that the QR code on the right will also take you there) Finally, you can call us on 01553 768661 (clinic) or 07973 230293 (mobile) or send an e-mail to enquires@thefootcarecentrekingslynn.co.uk
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LOCAL LIFE
ABOVE: The Norfolk Children’s Book Centre is the brainchild of former librarian Marilyn Brocklehurst (left)
Marilyn’s enchanted garden of books... It’s home to over 60,000 books and is an inspiration for children all over Norfolk – and it’s largely the work of just one woman. Bel Greenwood meets the remarkable Marilyn Brocklehurst...
PICTURES: SIMON BROCKLEHURST
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orfolk Children’s Book Centre is truly magical. It has grown up in a garden that looks out across fields where on a late spring evening hares may dance across the fields, or a trio of stags might leap over the lane and into the wild landscape that surrounds this tucked-away place. The very location of the centre is something that could be written about and drawn in a children’s picture book. You go through a little wooden gate into the garden, past a handful of small stone sculptures of creatures holding books, and on through the glass door into a warm, colourful, comfortable,
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large, light and book-stuffed room – and you enter a different time zone. If you’re a child, it’s a place of immediate delight. If you’re an adult it’s full of the imprint of childhood book memories. It not only offers books, but tea and coffee with biscuits and places to sit and graze on titles for as long as you want. Parents, grandparents, teachers and librarians drink tea and read picture books to accompanying children or browse the shelves and piles of books stacked everywhere – looking for the unusual as well as familiar authors. For all these reasons (not to mention its comparative proximity to the sea) it
really is a very special trip. The founder of the Norfolk Childrens’ Book Centre is Marilyn Brocklehurst, who (after working as a librarian in North London and Norwich) decided to create a place where children could have access to books for pleasure. She built the shop in the garden of her home. The shop itself is very social and draws people to it. It used to host author visits, but the numbers attending have got so large that author events are now held at Aylsham Lodge Hotel in the nearest town. The largest children’s book group in the country is associated with the centre – Marilyn chairs it, although it’s
KLmagazine April 2012
ABOVE: Marilyn surrounded by her work and (below) a detail of the ‘autograph walls’ – testament to the many famous authors to have visited the Norfolk Children’s Book Centre
run outside of the business. It has 250 children on its membership list and authors; authors who’ve come to visit over the years and have scrawled their signatures and words of encouragement on the walls. Everyone who writes for children – from Anne Fine to Michael Morpurgo – is up there, although there’s one autograph Marilyn lacks. “Everybody has been here except for J.K. Rowling,” she says. “It would be a nice way to complete the walls before I retire!” Retirement would seem a long way away. Marilyn is busy. Very busy. It’s hard to imagine she gets any time to enjoy her beautiful surroundings. Not only does the world make its way to the shop but the shop makes its way out to the world. The Norfolk Children’s Book Centre supplies children’s books anywhere and it has a huge customer base – it has just started to supply books to Ethiopia – but the job that Marilyn invented for herself doesn’t stop there. Marilyn spends a lot of time on the road giving talks to parent and toddler groups, in schools to children, inset training for teachers, attends conferences on literacy and for the book trade about how to read, what to read, and the infection of reading when you are young. The advice is simple; children should be given the opportunity to read widely and often for
KLmagazine April 2012
pleasure. The day I visit her, she’s just returned from Vienna and it won’t be long before she’s off to Paris, although she could equally be visiting schools in Kent or Sussex. Her supporters think she should be awarded the status of national treasure for her dedication to planting the seeds of lifelong reading. Marilyn believes she’s led a charmed life. “I’m doing exactly what I want to do and I’m surrounded by people who get it,” she says, referring to her staff – which includes storytellers who will go out and tell a tale or two. There’s one thing about the shop which is quite extraordinary. There are 60,000 books on the shelves, and Marilyn has read every single one of them. Not a single book gets anywhere near a shelf if it hasn’t been read by Marilyn herself first. “I cannot imagine how many books I’ve read over my lifetime,” she says. It must include every book for children ever written.
These days Marilyn isn’t just reading for her shelves but also for the book trade. She provides feedback to publishers often on proof copies. It helps that she has such a global knowledge of children’s publishers and she’s far busier these days with her reading lists. “Children’s literature has changed a lot. In the 1970’s there were about 2,500 books for children being published a year – now it’s 12,500 a year.” Marilyn’s accumulated knowledge is at the service of all her customers. Have a problem enticing an eight-yearold boy to read? No problem – Marilyn will know just the book and will stock it too. A 14-year-old has run out of books on ponies? There’s a new and exciting series to explore on the shelves all personally approved. Anyone in need of suggestions or advice will get it from the shop in a very personal way and by looking on the website, which offers suggested reading lists to schools and to parents. The Norfolk Children’s Book Centre is unique. It’s driven by so much passion that Marilyn will buy books she knows she won’t sell because they are so special, so individual and lovely. And the impact of e-books isn’t seen as a threat to the physical goodness of books, but becomes another opportunity to encourage children to read. “If you have an e-reader you can borrow e-books from libraries, at least three e-books a time and it’s free,” Marilyn explains. “You don’t even have to go into a library. You can do it online.” There are children laughing among the shelves. Cato, the resident black cat is sleeping in a slab of sunlight on the carpet by the door, a new family arrives and another tray of tea and biscuits goes out. I am drawn to the shelves. I can’t help myself and I find a completely original book that I know I wouldn’t easily find anywhere else than in the rather enchanted Norfolk Children’s Book Centre.
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The magic of Metric... C
The complete local carpet service – whatever style your home! arpets could be forgiven for feeling taken for granted. They get walked over all day, everyday and it’s not often that we think about what’s actually under our feet. Carpet is just carpet, right? Wrong! For a start, there are basic differences in how they’re manufactured. Ask Metric Carpets on Norfolk Street in King’s Lynn and they’ll show you that although there are many variations of carpet on the market, essentially they all fall into two main types – loop pile and cut pile. Loop piles are made from thick yarns of wools or synthetic materials which give that soft, walkingon-air feeling of underfoot luxury – there are different levels of loop pile which couple the luxury with durability and practicality. The other main type is cut pile which includes Twists. This is the most popular range in which the yarn is
twisted and heat set. This is versatile and textured and is ideal for plaincoloured carpet. Knowing a carpet’s type is one thing but the whole life experience of a carpet is also important for a carpet’s sense of well-being. It all begins with the way a carpet is brought into your life. Metric Carpets is a family business with three generations of experience. They offer free advice and measuring and will recommend the best carpet for your floor and requirements. For example, three teenage boys thundering up and down the stairs? This isn’t the time for long, looped piles which would eventually look flattened on the stair nosing, but a short pile which will minimise the appearance of wear is probably the best option. And then there’s the underlay. Underlays are like vests and like carpets there are different types. A good underlay – and Metric Carpets only
stock the best in their shop with its ethos of service and quality – will enhance the look of a carpet and prolong its life. Careless and inexperienced installation can dramatically reduce the performance of a carpet – at Metic Carpets they allow plenty of time for the fitting procedudre, during which they’ll move your furniture, clear the space, take up the old carpet and dispose of it for you – and clean the floor beneath before laying the new carpet and putting everything back. They know a thing or two about aftercare as well. The biggest killer of carpets is lack of hoovering. Most manufacturers recommend a daily hoover, but in a world of busy, working lives, most people manage it about once a week. For classic looks, great service and a carpet that does your home justice, Metric Carpets are all you need to know.
METRIC CARPETS TOP TIP What to do when Ribena hits the deck or that glass of red wine soaks into the cream pile? Act immediately to soak up and dab. NEVER leave it to the next day or scrub in large circular movements (spreading and embedding the stain) but carefully dab and dry over and over with warm water and a mild detergent.
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Details METRIC CARPETS 36 Norfolk Street, King’s Lynn Norfolk PE30 1AH Telephone: 01553 775203
KLmagazine April 2012
e Consulting Room Dr Andrew DOUDS
Dr Andrew Douds MB BS MD FRCP ia a Consultant Gastroenterologist and Honorary Senior Lecturer at the University of East Anglia
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IRRITABLE BOWEL SYNDROME: A MEDICAL DISORDER OF OUR TIME It has been recognised for many years that the movement of the gut can be influenced by external factors. Extreme examples can be confirmed by army medical officers when soldiers who are otherwise fit and well develop unexplained abdominal pains or alteration of their bowel habits. As a specialist gastroenterologist for the last 20 years Dr Douds has considerable experience in investigating and treating patients with irritable bowel syndrome. What is irritable bowel syndrome? It is a disturbance of the movement of the gut. It may manifest itself in a variety of ways e.g. abdominal discomfort, pain, bloating, flatulence, alternating constipation/diarrhoea, urgency to pass stool or excessive gurgling noises of the abdomen. It is a common condition and the symptoms vary in intensity from being a minor irritation to having a significant impact on quality of life. What are the causes? The causes of irritable bowel syndrome are not conclusive. There may be a genetic link. The role of the diet is controversial but some patients find that certain foods undoubtedly exacerbate the symptoms. Common examples include wheat or dairy products. Some patients find stressful situations such as exams, relationship difficulties or work problems are responsible. Why is it important to diagnose it? It is an important condition to diagnose as it may mimic more serious disorders such as ulcers, inflammation of the bowel (ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease), coeliac disease (an allergy to wheat) or bowel cancer. Many patients are worried that they may have a serious underlying gastrointestinal disorder and are relieved if following investigations they can be reassured that this is not the case. How is it diagnosed? The condition can be diagnosed from a description of the symptoms and an examination. It is useful to do blood tests to exclude anaemia, inflammation, vitamin deficiencies and coeliac disease. A stool sample may be sent to exclude infection/inflammation. In patients with persistent or severe symptoms camera inspections of the upper or lower gut (i.e endoscopy/colonoscopy) are helpful to exclude other conditions such as ulcers, coeliac disease, a germ known as helicobacter, inflammation of the bowel, diverticula and bowel cancer. What is the treatment? Having excluded other disorders, patients are often reassured and feel their symptoms do not then need treatment. Drugs: If patients’ symptoms are severe they may need drug therapy. There are a number of drugs which may be helpful: • Buscopan, mebeverine or peppermint for abdominal pains • Laxatives such as senna, movicol, lactulose for constipation • Imodium, codeine for diarrhoea • Peppermint for flatulence/bloating Diet: Dietary manipulation is sometimes helpful. Patients can keep a simple food diary to see if there are certain foods which correlate with symptoms. Common foods that patients find helpful to avoid include wheat and dairy products. Other treatments include: Regular physical activity Live yogurts e.g. actimel, yakult Hypnotherapy Acupuncture What is the outlook? Many patients’ symptoms will resolve but for some there are intermittent relapses. If you have concerns about gut symptoms you should arrange to see your family doctor in the first instance. If the symptoms remain, you should see a specialist in gastroenterology.
e Sandringham Hospital
For more information, please call BMI The Sandringham Hospital on 01553 769770 or visit www.bmihealthcare.co.uk/sandringham
KLmagazine April 2012
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ABOVE: Robert Callaby driving one of his tractors
29 years of leading the field at Arco! Arco talks to KL Magazine about why their grass is always greener
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t’s that time of year when winter is a distant memory and the early spring growth of grass in the garden will soon need a first trim. Out comes the lawn mower which has been hibernating in the garden shed for months. If you are lucky, it will be a high quality grasscutting machine, perfectly adapted for the kind of lawn stretched out in your garden and ideally suited to give the effect you have always dreamed about. This could be a close Wimbledon-style crop or an elegant dark and light striped effect, or a tiny little clipping off the top. If you are fortunate, you may have purchased your garden machinery from Arco in Heacham and be benefiting from good quality machinery
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and after care. But if you find your lawn mower has been spirited away by the squirrels or has finally passed over into the world of obsolete metal, you couldn’t do better than to visit Arco’s lawnmower and tool hire showroom. Arco is a family business with 29 years experience in selling garden machinery. The hire department can supply a diverse range of machinery from a simple hammer drill to a threetonne digger. They also have a range of hire equipment to tempt landscape gardeners from wood-chippers to stump grinders and turf-cutters. The stock is supplied with expert advice and every piece of machinery is demonstrated to the prospective customer. If anything does go wrong,
Arco is there with their mechanical expertise in support for the warranty period. “Our niche is that we repair and service machines, which a lot of companies don’t do and we provide excellent after sales care,” says Alex Callaby, Arco’s Administrator. Arco staff have an intimate knowledge of all their garden machinery. Robert Callaby who founded the company with his wife, Rosemary, has always driven the company to have an in depth knowledge of the machinery sold or hired and this feature is shared by all the staff. “We have a small, well-trained workforce,” says Robert. “Staff
KLmagazine April 2012
members will have repaired and serviced the type of machine being sold and this allows tailoring of the machine to the customer’s requirement.” The advice on buying the right machine for the job is an important part of the service. Theres a lot more to grass-cutting than is first apparent and Arco supply high end quality machines such as Atco and Hayter ride on lawn mowers, right down to a simple fourwheel electric walk behind mower for the smaller lawn. The coastal area supports a busy tourism industry with a demand for landscape gardeners who make full use of Arco’s services and equipment. The company is busy supporting the hire and service needs of caravan sites and golf clubs as well as private customers. The unique service and repair provision covers a wide range of machinery. People will often bring their machines in for repair and Arco will always take a look, however, if it is a Chinese engine on a mass-produced model, there is often no hope of getting spare parts and often these kinds of models are built with a limited life span. The emphasis at Arco is on the supply of quality machines and tools informed by years of experience. One can’t help feeling that the whole business of servicing, repairing and selling machines is powered by a personal passion for engines. Robert Callaby repairs and drives vintage tractors in his spare time. He is
ABOVE: Alex, Sasha and Rosemary Callaby
a committee member of the Norfolk Ploughing Society and has driven vintage tractors in ploughing matches in local and national championships. He has also organised ploughing events to raise money for charity. It’s not just about sitting in the driving seat either; Robert Callaby buys vintage tractors as rusty wrecks and does them up. ‘ “I always used to tinker with machinery, I was always interested in how they work,” he says. That interest in machines is what makes Arco the company it is.
RIGHT: Mark and Matt are normally on hand to help with any technical or sales enquiries BELOW: Arco stock a range of lawnmowers to suit both consumers and professionals
KLmagazine April 2012
Details ARCO TOOL HIRE 5 Station Road, Heacham PE31 7HG Tel: 01485 571789 E-mail: arcooffice@posmail.co.uk Web: www.arcotoolhire.co.uk
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More than just a farmshop! This April is the perfect time to visit Worzals Farm Shop in Walton Highway, Wisbech. Our huge variety of spring time flowers are on display in our recently extended Garden Centre along with a wide selection of plants that you might not expect to find around these parts! During your visit, dine at our in-house restaurant, named after our very own, Aunt Eileen. Still under her guidance we sell fresh scones and cakes made in our kitchen everyday alongside our large breakfast and lunchtime menu, with all meals made using the freshest of ingredients sourced locally. So come on in and pay us visit. You certainly won’t be disappointed. KLm i 58
Details WORZALS FARM SHOP Lynn Road, Walton Highway, Wisbech, Cambridgeshire PE14 7DA
01485 582231
April 2012
KLmagazine April 2012
Books THE FISHERMAN’S APPRENTICE MONTY HALLS Deep sea fishing, like coal mining, comes under that heading of endangered species; all the more reason then to celebrate its fragile existence The Fisherman’s Apprentice is a first-hand voyage by one enterprising adventurer through that fight for survival, offering a plea for recognition and a view of the beauty and recklessness of the cruel sea.
CALICO JOE JOHN GRISHAM As far as Grisham’s plotting and storytelling are concerned it’s some time now since the well of superlatives ran dry. A tale here of true America in its finest slow motion and late afternoon applepieness as two baseball adversaries step up to the plate once more to revisit their undecided past for a final match of adrenaline and angst. Ripping.
AROUND THE WORLD IN 80 DISHES DAVID LOFTUS This slaveringly beautiful book is dead right for those who believe that in just eighty recipes you can experience a taste from all four corners of the world excluding the spare room and that place where the cat usually sleeps. Blumenthal, Lawson, Contaldo, Kapoor: they’re all here. Read, prepare, eat, sleep; about as good as cookery writing gets.
POINT MAN MARK TOWNSEND He’s the vanguard for his men: his job to step on the IED, to warn the others, to die without vainglory in Helmand or Iraq. But then to successfully return home to a greater domestic hell? A soul-searching, heartrending and unforgettable testament to nature, red in tooth and claw.
KLmagazine April 2012
David Learner The spring is sprung, the grass is ris, I wonder where the booksies is. So much for my poetry skills. There’s nothing to match the freshness of new pages – open any of these and let literature’s scent beguile and bewitch you... STRONG WOMAN KARREN BRADY Brady has become an integral part of The Apprentice; she’s incisive, witty, and bone-crunchingly accurate in her assessment of people. Her own story has been a while in coming, such is her determination for the truth. Think The Devil Wore Prada, add a life-threatening diagnosis and watch as the truth starts to bleed out. For anyone with ambition, this is yours.
THE NORMAN CONQUEST MARC MORRIS William’s invasion of England, like that of Claudius a thousand years previously, would change everything forever, but peace would be bought at a price that was high, notably in East Anglia and the wildest Fen. Morris’ success with his history of Edward I leads now to this wonder: the story of the Norman Conquest in high definition and surround sound. Epic.
April
18 20 23
Events
When Ridley Scott acquires the movie rights to a debut thriller from an unknown writer you take note. Join us at 4pm to discuss S.J. WATSON‘s chilling tale Before I Go to Sleep, and find out why. All welcome. Boycie makes it to Lynn! One of Only Fools and Horses’ best-known faces is with us at 11am to sign copies of his autobiography Being Boycie. JOHN CHALLIS? The boy done good. Sorted. Free cheers for WORLD BOOK NIGHT! Waterstones is open till 7pm. Come along for a cup of tea and a free Bryson, O’Farrell or Lindqvist (while stocks last). Choose from Notes from a Small Island, The Vanishing Act of Esme Lennox or Let the Right One In.
DAVID LEARNER is Assistant Manager for Waterstone’s at 137 Norfolk Street, King’s Lynn, Norfolk PE30 1AU Telephone: 01553 660111
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LOCAL LIFE
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KLmagazine April 2012
ABOVE: The QEH’s Estates Team are committed to ensuring every part of the hospital is working in an environmentally-friendly way
QEH – the greenest hospital in the country What has King’s Lynn’s Queen Elizabeth Hospital got in common with Manchester United and the DoE? Bel Greenwood discovers how they’re leading the country in carbon reduction...
H
ospitals are like miniature planets. They carry a whole world of different stratum, all feeding through to the central activity of serving the local community’s health needs. On the surface are the patients, the medical staff and the volunteers manning the tea and cake outlets. But go behind the doors and down the stairs, under the wards and there’s a hidden population of staff keeping the hospital planet revolving in its axis. This is true of King’s Lynn’s own Queen Elizabeth Hospital as much as any other. Below stairs is the 57-strong Estates Team, and what they’ve been doing over the last 22 years has helped to put the Trust in the number one position for carbon reduction in the
KLmagazine April 2012
country – alongside Manchester United Football Club and the Department of Energy itself. The Trust had to demonstrate a continuing commitment to carbon reduction following the launch in 2007 of a nationwide NHS strategy that called for a 10% reduction of a hospital’s carbon footprint by 2015. The QEH hasn’t only topped the Environment Agency’s league table for being green, it also received an award from ENER.G for reducing carbon emissions by 387 tonnes in 2007. This is the equivalent of providing the world with a green lung of almost 60,000 trees. These days, QEH headed paper carries the logo of the Carbon Trust Standard because of its green status – but carbon reduction and its twin
sustainable living are not new ideas to Graham Light, Energy Manager at the hospital. “We’d been looking at this for a long time before it became more widely known,” he says. “We were the first hospital to have a combined heat and power plant within the East of England.” This was a cost-effective measure back then and it still is today. Action may be triggered by national initiatives, but as a concept in the Estates Office it’s always been there. The role of the Estates Office is to facilitate clinical needs in the most effective way possible. These days, this includes having a sustainable management plan in place – not just about saving on fuel and its costs but also about strategically developing a culture of sustainability
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ABOVE: Welcome to the QEH – which currently recycles an amazing 98% of its waste thanks to a number of inspired initiatives
that feeds into every area of hospital life; whether this involves how staff come to work, if a car-share scheme exists, if staff can be encouraged to use the bus, how patients and visitors access the hospital, changing all the hospital cars to run on the best carbonfriendly option. And so on. It’s about every single area of hospital life – from how food is sourced, (it’s all freshly prepared in the QEH kitchens and locally sourced) to developing sustainability in NHS procurement (60% of the NHS carbon footprint is in that area). Everything – every ambulance trip, every patient seen – has a carbon impact as a local hospital and nationally. Sustainable policy is present in every single aspect of our hospital world. Some initiatives are self-evident in what they give back. For example, introducing LED lighting results in a 50% saving of electricity specifically consumed to illuminate the car parks and street lighting. Replacing the boiler will increase efficiency. All waste will soon go to a waste recycling facility which generates electricity – and this will afford the hospital the opportunity to claim 98% recycling of all waste. Questions of sustainability and cutting carbon are not always simple to answer, and new developments don’t always mean less energy use or waste, however. New technology and new medical advances don’t always come along with a reduced carbon price tag. A new MRI suite and a new Women and Children’s suite involve more computerization that could mean increased consumption that in turn has to be offset. Higher energy prices
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means working even harder to reduce costs. In globally strategic terms, the NHS has a role to play. The NHS has accepted that it is central to climate change. Sustainability issues go hand in hand with emergency planning and the part that the hospital would play in severe weather conditions and in how as an institution it is trying to change and how it would meet those challenges. Strategically, in sustainability terms, hospitals need to think in carbon terms about their impact on the planet and its use of shrinking natural resources. The QEH is at the forefront in this respect and could make a great ambassador as part of the global initiative the NHS has launched to promote greater sustainability and environmental health in the health sector around the world. The QEH has a community feel – there are teams of volunteers manning reception and it’s blessed by geography. The value of its natural setting cannot be quantified in financial terms, but it is a good thing for well-
being. The hospital is sited in a landscape of broadleaf woodland including silver birch, oak and ash, grassland, stands of trees pocketed about the hospital grounds, and it has running and standing water. This offers a range of habitats for all manner of wildlife – both protected species such as water voles and bats to the lumbering of badgers and hedgehogs. Stand and wait for the bus (a stone’s throw from the main entrance) and the air is full of birdsong. As miniature planets go this one is on quite a green orbit.
KLmagazine April 2012
Welcome to the complete country store...
From the best range of country clothing in East Anglia to freshly-made animal feeds and pet foods, to an extensive selection of new and used horse boxes and trailers, Bearts of Stowbridge truly is the complete country store – if we haven’t got it, you almost certainly don’t need it!
Brighton Mill, Stow Bridge, King’s Lynn PE34 3PD tel: 01366 388151 web: www.bearts.co.uk
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Celebrating the sound of success After more than 100 years in business, King’s Lynn company Bow Brand is recognised as one of the largest manufacturers of natural gut music strings in the world...
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t takes a minimum of six weeks to make a harp string from a cow’s gut – time and a series of handson interventions in a process that transforms the bovine intestinal system into a melodic octave on a £20,000 instrument. Bow Brand in King’s Lynn is tucked into a corner of Highgate, but is one of only five companies in the whole world who make harp strings or strings for tennis racquets by hand. They are the only company of its kind in the UK. Bow Brand began manufacturing in 1902, in time to develop a skill in
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making sutures for the First and Second World Wars. It was next door to the local abattoir, now long-vanished and replaced by council housing. It was a neighbourly business, in that the Cattle Market used to be behind where the bus station now stands. The cow was fed through from market to abbattoir and then part of it into what was popularly known as the ‘gut factory’ next door. It has to be said that it’s a pretty smelly business. Cow intestines arrive in large blue drums once a month from abattoirs in Northern and Southern
Ireland and Scotland. There are a thousand cow intestines in each drum, packed in salt and already split into 19mm strands, 14 yards long – it looks and feels like spaghetti. The intestines have a different smell and strength depending on what the cow has eaten in its lifetime and where they come from. There are differences because in this manufacturing process the product is from a living creature. Of course, it didn’t use to arrive neatly split. Production Manager Rosina Russell, was 17 when she started at the factory and she can remember having
KLmagazine April 2012
ABOVE: A snapshot of the process of making harp strings – from initial washing (top left) to final calibration (bottom right)
to wash out and split the intestines herself. These days, conditions are much improved on the past. The cow gut spends three days in a series of baths with soapy solutions which allows the split strands to separate more. Sarah (who’s worked at Bow Brand for 18 years) and Linda skim over the strands for pieces of fat and check the length before looping the correct number of strands onto small sticks depending on the kind of string required. It’s a swift process and it’s very skilled. Most of the tasks in the factory can’t be picked up in a couple of days, and it takes a particular kind of person to stick with the work. “People either stay here forever or leave after five minutes!” says Rosina. For Rosina, it’s been a family business – her mother started working in 1963, Rosina’s uncle followed, Rosina herself started in 1976 and now her daughter is on the staff of 25. The family connections and the style of management under Carolyn Clarke, the company’s Director, has given Bow Brand a family atmosphere. Loyalty is rewarded and the staff are appreciated. 99% of the factory’s output is for harp strings to international customers and in 2007 Carolyn decided to take the entire body of workers to visit Italian harp manufacturers Salvi so the staff
KLmagazine April 2012
could see the results of their efforts. Last year, the company had its best year yet. It has increased its harp string sales to the USA and there’s a lot of business developing with East European countries. The harp is actually becoming more fashionable – it’s present in every major orchestra and it’s featuring more and more in pop videos and at weddings. The Prince of Wales has helped to enhance its popularity by resurrecting the role of Royal Harpist in 2002 (this year it’s Hannah Stone). The royal harp was restrung to be played at Kate and Will’s wedding last year and the strings were supplied by Bow Brand, naturally. The production process, however, is a long way away from the glamour of royal occasions. The looped strands are kept in a fridge until there are enough for a machine like an elongated bath, which needs 14,000 pieces loaded into it before it is used. The strands go through nine different baths in this part of the process, ending in a cohesion bath. They’re spun so the strands come together. The next series of actions involve preserving before they’re electronically spun from both ends. Next, it’s off to the drying room where the’re dried by humidity from the inside out. The strings still have a lot of spin in them, and they’ll try to unspin themselves because they contain lots
of collagen, which is a springy substance. Rosina has a poetic way of putting it. “We’re trying to create a different memory in it,” she says. The strings go through more processing before they’re finally varnished with a minimum of 3 coats, cut and wound and finally packaged by hand. There isn’t a moment in the process where the strings aren’t handled individually. It is an extraordinary process that goes into producing an extraordinary sound.
Details BOW BRAND INTERNATIONAL LTD Highgate, King’s Lynn PE30 1PT Tel: 01553 772943 E-mail: sales@bowbrand.co.uk Web: www.bowbrand.co.uk
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LOCAL LIFE
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KLmagazine April 2012
ABOVE: Robert Wolfe with Thursford’s Mighty Wurlitzer – it’s the fourth largest in Europe and has no less than 1,339 pipes
The man behind the music at Thursford... For the last 32 years, one man has entertained people from all around the world with the sounds of Thursford’s aptly-named Mighty Wurlitzer. Bel Greenwood meets Robert Wolfe
T
he first note of spring at Thursford isn’t a bird in full mating chorus but the rich, theatrical sound of the full orchestra contained in the pipes of the Mighty Wurlitzer. From the first day of April to the end of the summer season in late autumn, top British organist Robert Wolfe, recognised as a world-class interpreter of theatrical organs for his unrivalled artistry and musicality, takes his seat
KLmagazine April 2012
before the multiple keyboards of Thursford’s magnificent Wurlitzer and floods the air with music. He’s been spending half of each year with the Mighty Wurlitzer – the centrepiece of the Sight and Sound Experience at Thursford – for the last 32 years. If a man can have a musical instrument as a soulmate, this Mighty Wurlitzer is Robert’s. Play an instrument for that many years and it becomes an extension of oneself.
“It feels part of me even after all these years even when I play the last time at the end of the season,” says Robert. “It becomes part of your personality and you feel very connected. I feel most myself when I am playing.” Serendipity often plays its part in directing people onto the right road and it has played quite a role on Robert’s life. His family wasn’t musical and it was only by chance that a family friend
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introduced him to the youngest professional sound of the Wurlitzer. He organist in the country was about 10 and he was when Thursford stepped in not only hooked but and asked him to come determined. He lived in and play The Mighty Luton, and managed to Wurlitzer. find out there was an It was 1981 when Robert organ to play in a local first took up residence in cinema. His family bought an on-site caravan. him a Bontempi electric “I was blown away by organ for Christmas and he Thursford and the whole started to teach himself atmosphere of the how to play by ear – collection,” he remembers. reading music came later. “It was just a fairytale In another of those world. When I first moved serendipitous moments, there I couldn’t drive and Robert was walking home lived in a caravan. Those down his road in Luton first two years were lonely when he heard organ but the playing and music emanating from a meeting the visitors to the house. museum made it He knocked on the door worthwhile.” and discovered a lady Since those early days, organist who became his Robert’s reputation has first teacher. Later, in a visit grown. He spends his that foreshadowed the winters giving concerts all future, he went on a bus over the UK and trip organised by family internationally – principally friends to Thursford. in the US, Canada, New “I was blown away by it,” Zealand and Australia – he remembers, “both by and he’s made almost 50 the organ and the people recordings that are who played it.” available on CDs and DVDs The people who as well as countless organised the trip asked if recordings for BBC Radio he could play and at 13, 2. Robert put his fingers onto He’s even played on the instrument he would primetime Saturday night come to know so TV when the National intimately. Lottery draw (viewed by 20 “I remember thinking this million people) was filmed is really what I love, this is at Thursford. really me.” An audience of 20 From then on he spent million hearing the music his time at school drawing of the Mighty Wurlitzer is a wurlitzers instead of high point because ABOVE: Robert has been playing Thursford’s Mighty Wurlitzer for 32 years concentrating on his audiences are becoming lessons. He knew what he smaller on the concert one the most famous wurlitzers in the was going to do with his life. At the age circuit as musical tastes change – country. of 14 he was playing a Compton theatre Wurlitzers have personality and a glitz although it doesn’t seem to be organ in a local pub and his own impacting on demand for Robert and glamour associated with silent electric organ in a range of local pubs himself. He had 40 concert dates over cinema. Although the Wurlitzer and clubs. the winter. There’s a dedicated Company in the US started making His pivotal lucky break came on a audience out there and an active and organs in the late 1890s, the first family holiday to Blackpool. devoted fan club. And the audience at Wurlitzer theatre organ was imported The Blackpool Tower Ballroom Thursford renews itself. into this country in 1925. housed the largest Wurlitzer in Europe “Thursford is family oriented,” says From this time until the outbreak of and played non-stop dance music to Robert. “The visitors remember coming the Second World War, wurlitzers were holidaymakers. There he watched the as children and now they’re bringing placed and played in cinemas all over legendary Reginald Dixon at work. their own children along. It’s very the country. It was a golden age of Robert was allowed to play this rewarding and makes me very happy.” playing, as accompanists interpreted extraordinary instrument out of hours, Robert Wolfe has probably the the mood of silent film footage and and as he played he was heard and warmest smile this side of the River played the soundtrack. invited to come back and audition Ouse and that’s part of the appeal, that Wurlitzers became a staple of BBC when he was 16. It was like a dream and his modesty and passion about the radio and founding fathers like Reginald come true. instrument he makes music with. It is Dixon made over 2,000 broadcasts in Locally, around Bedfordshire, his developing and keeping alive the music those early years. name was already getting known and and a glamour of a time when every Robert was 16 when he started now here he was on the way to playing note had some drama in it. playing at Blackpool. He was the
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KLmagazine April 2012
KLmagazine April 2012
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Review
Christine Glass
THE ADORABLE PLOT Tessa Newcomb with Philip Vann (£18.50, published later this year)
PICTURE: WWW.LENABOYLE.COM
You might remember back in September we featured the work of local artist Tessa Newcomb, and you’ll be pleased to learn that Sansom and Company are about to publish a new book on one of her favourite subject. Close to Tessa’s heart (and equally popular among buyers of her work) is the common-or-garden public allotment. In this heartwarming book, Tessa sketches the origins of the allotment ‘movement’ and celebrates these oases of ‘the good life’ with her art. In her delightful, quirky style, she records her favourite nooks and crannies – along with the families who lovingly tend their very own fruit and vegetables. “By visiting allotments,” says Tessa, “I’ve been able to share people’s pleasure in growing things – the form my gardening takes is observing and drawing other people enjoying their gardens and allotments.” Tessa’s pictures are complemented by her perceptive, often humorously pithy writing. She explores the mysterious intimacy of allotment holders with wider nature including ‘scatty hens’, elusive moles and horses and goats grazing on scrubland. The Adorable Plot celebrates the endless care and dedication, even in bleak, unpromising conditions, shown by most allotment holders, along with their rare freedom of spirit and joy in the seasons and the natural cycles of planting, growing and harvest. THE BURNHAMS – PEOPLE & PLACES John Warham & Hazel Denslow (£27.00)
KLmagazine April 2012
PICTURE: JOHN WARHAM
The third in the series of John Warham’s marvellous photographic portraits of popular North Norfolk villages and the people who live and work in them is set to be published next month. The Burnhams – People & Places contains more than 700 colour photographs taken over the last two years by John Warham and Hazel Denslow, and capture the popular tourist scenes as well as the hobbies, arts and crafts, shops and shopkeepers which help make the Burnhams so vibrant. “When I retired from business a few years ago,” says John, “I never imagined that within no time at all I would have published three books! It started with Thornham – People & Places, but I never expected it to go any further!” John’s particularly pleased that the book is a true ‘made in Norfolk’ project, having been designed by Dick Malt from Hoe and printed by Jez Batch of Dolphin Graphics in Dersingham. It’s a fascinating look at this beautiful part of Norfolk and will appeal to anyone with a love of the county and the people who make it such a great place to live and work. The book is being launched at a special event in the the Hoste Arms at Burnham Market on Saturday, 26th May from 10:30am to 1:00pm – and will then be available from the WhiteHouse Bookshop in Burnham Market, Jarrolds of Norwich, Waterstones in King’s Lynn and other bookshops along the coast. It can also be obtained directly from John Warham – e-mail him at johnwarham@hotmail.com
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ABOVE: Frimstone’s Snettisham site is the only quarry in the country producing carrstone suitable for building stone
Frimstone’s 70 years of rock solid quality... A family-owned business with a wealth of experience in mineral extraction, recycling and restoration projects in the East Anglia region, Frimstone is looking to the future with confidence...
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s long as man has been on the earth, he’s been digging up stone and ore. Today, almost everything in our modern lives – from the walls and windows of our houses, the roads and pavements, even paper and toothpaste – harbours the kind of mineral and aggregate product that Frimstone quarries from the ground each year. Frimstone is a family business which grew alongside the M. Dickerson business, eventually growing into the Dickerson group of companies. Maurice Dickerson started out as a haulier in 1925 with a single lorry. He formed M. Dickerson in 1937 in Cambridgeshire and concentrated on hauling building materials for airfields. During the Second World War he took on the dangerous job of transporting bombs from their manufacturing bases in the Midlands to the East Anglian docks. It wasn’t until after the war that the first sand quarry was acquired at Waterbeach and the company started actually digging up the material it had been so busy transporting.
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It was Maurice Dickerson’s son John who developed the first Norfolk quarries under the Frimstone trading name. The Dickerson Group continued to expand (adding a waste management business in the early 1980’s) until in 2010 the Group of companies was sold and John Dickerson’s youngest daughter Rachel and her husband Mark Davenport (the Managing Director of the Group) bought Frimstone and M Dickerson outright. Last year the companies were merged into one business and trade under the Frimstone name. Frimstone now has 18 operational sites in East Anglia. Its head office is located in purpose-built offices just
outside Downham Market at the centre of its network of quarries. It has the distinction of being the only aggregates company in the UK to be awarded a Royal Warrant – and not only does it supply Sandringham with all its aggregate needs, but it actually used to operate a quarry on the estate. The business is firmly tied to the history and locality of Norfolk and there’s something satisfying in the knowledge that the experience of recycling so many airfields has put the company and East Anglia at the forefront of recycling nationally – 50% of the company’s business is in this area. “Partly, recycling is born out of necessity,” explains Gary Bell, Frimstone’s Managing Director. “East Anglia isn’t blessed with hard rock. Aggregates are a finite resource. They have to be husbanded and balanced with the amount of recycling that we do. We see ourselves as a green business.” It’s partly the innovations and development of recycling not only airfields (of which the region has many)
KLmagazine April 2012
but also railway ballast that partly aided Frimstone when it came to tender for the Network Rail Contract to manage seven local distribution centres. The long-term contract is testimony to the company’s work for Network Rail and its efforts to raise the profile of recycled railway ballast and to get it used in ready mixed concrete, asphalt and surface dressing rather than the traditional cheap and cheerful bulk fills. The contract means 50 more staff and is welcome at a time when nationally the quarrying business is down by 30-35%. The downturn is the knock-on effect of the recession with cuts to government infrastructure projects, house building on hold and lack of bank lending to business. Quarrying is a long-term business and Gary thinks it will take time for the
industry as a whole to return to 2007 levels of trade. Time in the quarrying business – like geological time itself – is long. Planning for a replacement quarry can take up to 15 years. And there are layers of processes, planning, surveys and consultations that all have to take place before a quarry is up and running. Once a site has been identified another kind of digging happens first – enter the archaeologists. It can take up to nine months to fully explore and partly excavate a site, and the cost is borne by the company. As you might imagine, some interesting objects can turn up. A Bronze Age torque was unearthed at Crimplesham and is now in the British Museum. Even the afterlife of a quarry is written into the plans before extraction takes
place. It could become a water resource, be returned to agricultural use or be developed into a site of biodiversity. The family feel of Frimstone is very important to Gary Bell. Staff are valued and very loyal. Despite the industry’s difficulties, not a single member of staff has been made redundant. Not only that, but staff stay and stay. Recent retirements have been in the order of 40 and 43 years and a quarter of staff have worked for the company for over 25 years. Frimstone is definitely in for the long haul.
HEAD OFFICE Ashcraft Farm Main Road, Crimplesham Norfolk PE33 9EB Tel: 01366 388900 CAMBRIDGE OFFICE Ely Road, Waterbeach Cambridge CB25 9PG Tel: 01223 860000 Web: www.frimstone.co.uk E-mail: enquiries@frimstone.co.uk
KLmagazine April 2012
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ARTS
ABOVE: Sharon and Chris Fox are the driving force behind the King’s Lynn Players
A winning partnership on stage – and off it! The King’s Lynn Players is one of the most respected amateur dramatics companies in the country. Richard Parr meets Sharon and Chris Fox to discover what makes them so successful...
S
haron Fox is used to unexpected surprises in her deep involvement in the local amateur theatre scene, but even she was thrown when stage and screen legend Stephen Fry turned up at a rehearsal night. Sharon was in rehearsals for a King’s Lynn Players’ production of Me and My Girl at a local primary school when who should take her arm for a chorus of The Lambeth Walk but Stephen Fry himself. Sharon, who’s a veteran of the
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award-winning King’s Lynn Players (she first appeared on stage as a two-yearold with the King’s Lynn Academy of Dancing) recalls the night as if it was yesterday. “There I was in my Pearly Queen costume with other members of the cast,” she remembers, “when in walked Stephen Fry – and within minutes he’d linked arms for a lively rendition of the famous Lambeth Walk routine! His enthusiasm and interest in our show made for a memorable evening that’s
still talked about.” Such memorable nights are all part of Sharon’s rich and colourful life as an actress, producer and choreographer on the local stage – a passion she shares with husband, 49-year-old Chris. Together they’re mainstays of the King’s Lynn Players, which was founded in 1944 and has been entertaining local audiences ever since. Sharon also currently serves as the Players’ chairman. Over the years their theatrical
KLmagazine April 2012
ABOVE: Stephen Fry joins the King’s Lynn Players for an inpromtu rendition of The Lambeth Walk
productions have brought them into contact with such illustrious names as Howard Keel, Ron Moody and Maureen Lipman who have all lent their support to help publicise their productions. Their shared passion for performance on the local stage makes for a busy life for the couple – who manage to juggle demanding work schedules with the commitment of rehearsals and runs of shows. “We consider ourselves to be part of the Players ‘family’” says Sharon, “we’re a team with everyone involved in contributing in numerous ways, both on and off stage, in creating the productions.” But Sharon and Chris wouldn’t have it any other way. While it has been a joy of their life, the talented duo have given valuable stage experience to countless people and youngsters and given live entertainment to thousands of West Norfolk audiences. Every year they’re involved with several productions, including an Autumn musical and a Spring play as well as other smaller scale productions. Costume dramas like Jayne Eyre and Pride and Prejudice have taken their place with large-scale musicals like Guys And Dolls, Copacabana, 42nd Street, Seven Brides for Seven Brothers, West Side Story and Jesus Christ Superstar. In the latter production, Chris played the demanding leading role and managed to lose three stone in weight for his moving and powerful performance when he was “hung” on the cross on the stage of the Corn Exchange. “That was an amazing part to play,” he remembers, “and I obviously had to be aware that many people in the audience had come simply because it was the story of Jesus – so we had to get it right.” The King’s Lynn Players aren’t afraid of new challenges and their groundbreaking production of Camelot was the first to be staged at the newly-refurbished Corn Exchange on the Tuesday Market Place. They’ll be amateur theatre pioneers again next year when they’ll be among the very first amateur groups in the country to stage the famous Calendar Girls play. It will also see
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ABOVE: Chris Fox in his acclaimed portrayl of Jesus in the King’s Lynn Players’ awardwinning production of Jesus Christ Superstar
Sharon make her debut directing a play rather than a musical. The story of how a WI group in Yorkshire decided to create a nude calendar to raise funds for cancer in memory of the husband of one of their members was a box-office smash hit and was later made into a hugelysuccessful film starring leading actresses including Helen Mirren and Julie Walters. “The Players have never been afraid of tackling new productions and introducing new methods,” says Sharon, “and we were delighted when we heard we’d been given the licence for this marvellous play. We’ve already told the boys that they’ll have to be off stage during the nude scenes!” Over the years the Players have been the recipients of several awards, and one of Sharon’s proudest moments was accepting the NODA (National Operatic and Dramatic Association) Eastern Region 4 Award for the Best Production for Jesus Christ Superstar. Her productions of The Witches of Eastwick in 2008 and the following year’s production of 42nd Street were awarded the Best Musical productions for NODA East DistrIct 4N. Back to this year, and local audiences are in for a treat with a programme of home-grown entertainment that includes Peter Shaffer’s play Amadeus (about the life of the composer Mozart) and The Hot Mikado, the jazzed-up Broadway version of the Gilbert and Sullivan favourite in the Autumn. There’s also a Young Players production of the very-popular Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat. In May the Players’ Drama Club will be involved in Aspects of Love in
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Shakespeare as part of the Royal Shakespeare Company’s Open Stages Project. “I have a demanding job in the NHS and my colleagues at work often tell me I must be mad when I go racing off to get back to Lynn for rehearsals,” says Sharon. “But just like Chris, I just love it and it’s very much part of our lives – and has brought us some wonderful friendships over the years.” They see themselves as very much continuing the traditions established by key people involved in the early years. While Sharon’s forte has been on the direction and choreography side, Chris has developed his acting and singing skills to play some demanding leading roles. Not content with that, he can also be found in the Players’ rehearsals rooms on a Saturday morning helping the crew to build the sets. Of course, the Players were enabling young people to express their talent on the stage long before the days of “instant” stardom on such TV shows like the X Factor and Britain’s Got Talent. There’s a strong commitment to encouraging young people with an interest and enthusiasm in amateur theatre through the Young Players group. Sharon explains that while some of their members have continued to enjoy drama as a
hobby, others have gone on to make it a career. Former members like Trevor Jary, Zara Dawson, David Thaxton have gone on to appear in TV dramas and on the West End stage. “We’ve been to London to see people like Trevor in Joseph and His Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat, David Thaxter in Les Miserables, Love Never Dies and Passion and Zara in a West End production of a musical version of Romeo and Juliet,” Sharon proudly recalles. “It’s lovely when their busy work schedules allow them come back to Lynn and join the audience for our shows”. One the Player’s young members, Bryony Ding (who played a leading role when she was only 14) is now studying drama at the famous Italia Conti Stage School in London. Being part of the King’s Lynn Players and producing and appearing in their shows has given Sharon and Chris a wealth of memories and, as you would expect, lots of laughs. “There’s nothing like amateur theatre and it is often the case there is more drama off stage than on,” she laughs. “We have to be ready to deal with the unexpected – from having to introduce a new actor at the last minute or a leading lady being sick into a bucket in the wings. You have to be ready for anything!” Sharon is keen to point out that the King’s Lynn Players are always happy to welcome new members. If you have an interest in amateur dramatics and feel you might like to find out more about the Players, visit the group’s website at www.kingslynnplayers.co.uk
KLmagazine April 2012
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KLmagazine April 2012
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KLmagazine April 2012
My KL
e page that’s
made by KL magazine readers...
Making a date with the past... In February you published an undated picture of the High Street in King’s Lynn (above), and I think I may be able to help date it. The premises of Joshua Crook Ltd (outfitters and hosiers) featured was situated at 2 High Street – the shop is listed in the Lynn trade directories from 1929 to 1933, but as the directory wasn’t published every year, it’s possible that the business actually started there earlier (between the publication of the 1925 directory and that of 1929). The policeman appears to be wearing a lightweight summer-issue helmet, so if it oculd be traced when these were worn by the Lynn force (which remained independent until 1947) it might be possible to pinpoint the year more accurately. RON CANSDALE Downham Market
Oscar’s great Hello to King’s Lynn from Spain... adventures... Way back in 1984 I moved from King’s Lynn to Spain, and though I’ve always loved it out here I have never forgotten my home town. I’ve managed to keep up with things with the help of friends and family, and though several things have gone (my favourite cinema was always the Pilot) I know it’s still the warm and friendly place I grew up in. I contacting you to say that thanks to your brilliant magazine I never feel that far from home any more. I have a friend who still lives in King’s Lynn who sends me a copy every month – and I read it from cover to cover. I’ve even managed to convince a couple of my Spanish friends to visit the town! JAMES PHILLIPS Santa Pola, Spain
KLmagazine April 2012
Here’s a picture of my dog Oscar – he’s 15½ years old, deaf and nearly blind. He can’t walk very far these days, so when we go out for the day we take him in his own little pushchair. Oscar love it – and as you might imagine, he gets lots of attention from the people we meet! MRS Y HASTINGS King’s Lynn We were going to save Oscar for next month’s Animal Matters, but everyone agreed he deserved a spot in this month’s magazine! CONTACT US: We’d love to hear from you! Send your letters and photos to KL magazine, 18 Tuesday Market Place, King’s Lynn, Norfolk PE30 1JW or e-mail editor@klmagazine.co.uk
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LOCAL LIFE
Michael Middleton’s
WildWestNorfolk
U
nless your TV has broken, you haven’t got a radio, don’t read newspapers or magazines, and rarely venture outside your house, you’ll probably be aware that the Olympics is coming to the UK this year. In the unlikely event that’s come as something of a suprise to you, you’ll be pleased to learn there’s no corner of the country that won’t be touched by Games-related fever. The Olympic Flame itself comes to our neck of the woods at 11.24am precisely on July 4th in Long Sutton’s Gedney Road on day 47 of its mammoth journey around the country and it’s scheduled to appear in King’s Lynn 39 minutes later. Such precision is typical of the Flame’s entire 70-day journey. It’s a feat of organisation that even Mrs Middleton would be hard-pressed to emulate. In fact, it seems that absolutely nothing has been overlooked in the detail. For instance, on its trip around the country, the Olympic Torch will travel some 8,000 miles. Now, do you know how many lucky torchbearers there are? That’s right – there are 8,000 of them. Now, have you seen the Torch itself? Alright, so it might look a little bit like a cheese grater, but can you guess how many of those perforated little circles there are in it? Yes, there are 8,000. Even more impressively, if you got hold of one with a decent-sized ruler you’d find it was 800mm tall. No more, no less. Even Mrs Middleton would be impressed with that. I didn’t realise until recently that the torch relay which transports the Olympic Flame from Greece to the
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various sites of the Games themselves isn’t as time-honoured or as ancient as you might think. It was actually introduced by a German sports administrator called Carl Diem at the controversial 1936 Berlin Olympics, which was used by the Nazi propaganda machine to add myth and mystique to Hitler’s regime. The Olympic Flame was lit by a concave mirror in Olympia, Greece and transported over 3,187 kilometres by 3,331 runners in twelve days and eleven nights from Greece to Berlin – it was an event designed to highlight just how steeped in ancient tradition the Nazis really were. However, from such dubious beginnings, the carrying of the Olympic torch has become a major event in itself. You might think it’s always been carried by runners, but you’d be wrong. In 1948, the Olympic Flame travelled across the English Channel by boat, and it first boarded an airplane in 1952 (to Helsinki). In 1956, all carriers in the relay to Stockholm (where the equestrian events were held) travelled on horseback. Twenty years later, the flame entered the realm of science fiction when it was transformed into a radio signal and transmitted by satellite from Athens to Canada – where it was received and used to trigger a laser beam to relight the Flame. That’s pretty impressive, but in 2000, the torch was successfully carried under water by divers near the Great Barrier Reef. Other unique means of transportation have included a Native American canoe, Concorde, and a camel.
Almost inevitably, it’s even been into space – the torch was taken into space by astronauts in 1996 and 2000, but without the flame (I seem to remember that fire and outer space don’t mix together particularly well). But all this good-natured fun and inventiveness has never managed to completely erase the memory of the relay’s Nazi origins, and over the years there have been protests against the carrying of the Olympic Flame. One of the most famous occurred before the 1956 Olympic Games (in Melbourne) when a local veterinary student called Barry Larkin tricked onlookers by carrying a fake flame that consisted of a pair of flaming underpants in a plum pudding can attached to a chair leg. He successfully managed to hand over this bizarre construction to the Mayor of Sydney and escape without being noticed. Needless to say, I’ve noticed the plum pudding can has mysteriously disappeared from our kitchen over the last few days.
KLmagazine April 2012
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