KL Magazine February 2016

ISSN 2044–7965

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ISSUE 65 FEBRUARY 2016 PRICELESS

magazine

WEST NORFOLK | NORTH NORFOLK | COASTAL

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COVER IMAGE

St Mary’s, Snettisham by Ian Ward

meet the team...

MANAGING DIRECTOR Laura Murray MANAGING EDITOR Eric Secker DESIGN TEAM Amy Phillips Lisa Tonroe

PHOTOGRAPHY Ian Ward

SALES AND PROMOTION Daniel Thomas

contact

18 Tuesday Market Place King’s Lynn PE30 1JW 01553 601201 info@klmagazine.co.uk www.klmagazine.co.uk 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.

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W

e hear a lot about heritage at the moment, and the subject always gives rise to a fascinating dilemma – do you invest time and money into preserving the past or do you consign it to the history books and concentrate on the future? There’s no easy answer, but it seems the solution may lie somewhere in the middle – by retaining our past by giving it new life for the 21st century. You’ll see exactly what we mean in this month’s magazine, which features some amazing examples of this approach.

While Dr. Paul Richards looks at how the important maritime buildings of the South Quay have been invigorated over the last few years, Charlotte Lockyer charts the fortunes of Langham Dome – which has made the journey from wartime training facility to abandoned shell to popular tourist attraction. And then there’s the work of The Landmark Trust, which has spent the last 50 years taking historically-important buildings (many of them at risk of disappearing forever) and turning them into fabulous holiday homes.

This month’s magazine also gives you the opportunity to take a fresh look at your own heritage, thanks to Robert Pols’ fascinating look at the secrets hidden in old family photographs. Of course, it’s not all about the past, and the area continues to produce amazingly talented people in any number of fields – whether they’re creating Renaissanceinspired wedding gowns, creating award-winning animations, or painting strikingly abstract landscapes. Enjoy the magazine!

KL MAGAZINE

KLmagazine February 2016

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Contents

FEBRUARY 2016

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60 KLmagazine February 2016

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6-13 WHAT’S ON This month’s diary of forthcoming events

64-73 WEDDINGS The latest looks from the local boutiques

8-10 REBIRTH AND REGENERATION Paul Richards looks at Lynn’s South Quay

77 YOU AND YOUR PETS With local vet Alex Dallas

14 CORN EXCHANGE Forthcoming shows you won’t want to miss

78-80 A VERY NATURAL SUCCESS STORY Charting the rise and rise of Natures Grub

16-18 HOLIDAY HOMES WITH HERITAGE The amazing work of The Landmark Trust

82-89 FOOD AND DRINK Reviews, recipes and recommendations

22-23 AUDREY STRATFORD The life of a remarkable local woman

84 RESTAURANT REVIEW A reader discovers the Berney Arms

28-30 LOOK TO THE SKIES The restoration of Langham Dome

92-94 SCATTERED AROUND THE COAST Alison Gifford on Captain Vancouver’s legacy

36-38 THE RETURN OF LUCY LAVERS How a local charity saved a famous lifeboat

98-100 AN ANIMATED LIFE...

The work of Trunk Animations’ Richard Barnett

44-46 LIFE AT ST. MARY’S The future of Snettisham’s famous church

104-106 PASTELS, PUGS AND PORSCHES KL magazine talks to local artist Sam Pointer

50 THEN & NOW The changing face of West Norfolk

108 SAMARITANS When Valentine’s Day isn’t a bed of roses

54-56 SECRETS OF THE FAMILY ALBUM Robert Pols takes a look at old photographs

110-112 A NEW VIEW OF THE LANDSCAPE The distinctive work of artist Kevin Turton

60-62 A NEW VIEW OF WEDDING GOWNS The colourful work of designer Theresa Blake

122 MICHAEL MIDDLETON You never know when your number’s up...

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FEBRUARY BOX OFFICE: (01603) 63 00 00 Mon 1 – Tues 2 Feb LAST NIGHT A DJ SAVED MY LIFE David Hasselhoff stars in 80s musical £8 - £35.50

Priscilla Queen of the Desert

Thur 4 – Fri 5 Feb RICHARD ALSTON DANCE COMPANY Stunning contemporary dance £7 - £20.50

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Mon 8 – Sat 13 Feb PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT Jason Donovan stars in smash hit musical £8 - £42.50

Mon 22 – Wed 24 Feb NEW JERSEY NIGHTS Celebrating the music of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons £8 - £27.50 Thur 25 – Sun 28 Feb CIRQUE BERSERK The finest circus skills and thrilling stunts £8 - £28.50 Mon 29 Feb – Sat 5 March TOAST Matthew Kelly stars in gritty comic drama £8 - £25

Thur 18 – Sat 20 Feb SIBERIAN STATE BALLET Giselle, The Snow Maiden and The Nutcracker £8 - £35

Book online:Twww.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk H E AT R E ST R E E T, N O RW I C H N R 2 1 R L

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69 YEARS AGO:

February

Friday 12th - Saturday 13th

HEROS GYM 24-HOUR SPINATHON Tesco Super Store, Hardwick Road, King's Lynn PE30 4NA (From 5pm Friday 12th-5pm Saturday 13th) Help support Heros fitness as they embark on a 24-hour spinathon!

There will be 21 bikes spinning for 24 hours, equalling a total of 504 man-hours on the bikes. The spinathon will be raising money for our local children’s ward at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital. Donations will help to fund equipment and projects to improve patient experience and enhance their quality of care. If you’d like to donate you can visit the website justgiving.com/Heros-24hour-spinathon or visit them on the day and help cheer them on too!

From Saturday 6th SNOWDROP WALKS Oxburgh Hall, Oxborough, PE33 9PS (11:30am-12:30pm & 2pm-3pm) Join the team for a beautiful winter walk or wander independently around Oxburgh’s woodlands and take in the stunning carpet of snowdrops, aconites and other spring flowers. Tickets are free but normal admission charges apply. Walks are running for various dates throughout February, up until March 6th. To find out about further dates and for more information either visit the website www.nationaltrust.org.uk/oxburgh-hall or contact Helen on 01366 328926 or by email at helen.gregory@nationaltrust.org.uk.

KLmagazine February 2016

In a particularly wintry month that saw Norfolk experience the worst snowfall for 50 years, there was a constant frost in Norwich for just over eight days...

Wednesday 3rd - Tuesday 16th BLAKENEY CHINESE BRUSH PAINTING GROUP EXHIBITION NWT Cley Marshes Reserve Visitor Centre, Coast Road, Cley-next-the-Sea NR25 7SA (10am - 4pm) Six local amateur artists that have been working for over 10 years in Blakeney are exhibiting their ink and water colour paintings using traditional Chinese brush painting techniques. With well-known artist Kit Nicol as their inspiration and teacher, the works are centred around landscapes, flora and fauna. Also, Chinese New Year falls during the exhibition on Monday 8th, so don’t miss out and come celebrate the Year of the Monkey! Entry is free and 25% of proceeds of art sales will go to Norfolk Wildlife Trust.

Saturday 13th - Monday 15th THE ROTARY YOUNG PHOTOGRAPHER COMPETITION Hanse House Gallery, South Quay, King's Lynn PE30 5GN The digital camera has revolutionised the photographic world with instant results and the end of the concept that the camera never lies.

As a talent, and an art form, Rotary celebrates the photographic skills of thousands of young people with a sequence of competitions that give them the chance to demonstrate and display just what they can produce. Judging for entries taken from our local schools will take place on the morning of Saturday 13th and winners will be announced and presentations made at 2.30pm. The theme for entries is “Our World is Beautiful” and each entrant will be exhibiting three photographs with a brief written submission to support them.

The winning entries will go forward to the District competition and winners from there to the national competition.

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Local Life

Riverside regeneration: the South Quay story The decline of riverside industries once presented the South Quay of King’s Lynn with an uncertain future, but its restoration and preservation are now in very good hands, as Paul Richards explains

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owards the end of the 20th century, the South Quay in King’s Lynn faced an uncertain future as its many riverside enterprises closed and the sites cleared of industrial buildings. Happily, its future looks promising, and the ‘remaking’ of the South Quay began in earnest with the 2000 Millennium ‘North Sea Haven’ Project undertaken by the Borough Council and partly funded by the Millennium Commission. The retention of the ancient silted-up Purfleet as a

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waterway was critical, and King’s Staithe Square (with the Grade 2* listed Georgian mansion of Bank House) became an impressive public space.

King’s Lynn is fortunate amongst east coast ports in possessing a series of historic brick warehouses alongside the Great Ouse spanning the 15th to 18th centuries. Marriott’s Warehouse was erected in the 1580s by Thomas Clayborne when the town was still a major English port. In this spacious brick and stone building he stored his bags of English corn and Scottish salt,

with French wine in the cellar, and Newcastle coal in the yard. It actually became known as Marriott’s Warehouse in the late 19th century after local malsters and merchants John and Robert Marriott.

The imposing Tudor building was restored as a visitor centre by May 2000, and its Grade 2* listing underlines its regional (and national) importance.

In 2013, the Charity Commission approved Marriott’s Warehouse Trust to succeed the Green Quay Trust, and while the preservation and care of KLmagazine February 2016

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ABOVE: A rare engraving of the South Quay in King’s Lynn from around 1730 and (below) an early photograph of Boal Quay dated to around 1880.

Marriott’s Warehouse is a top priority, the Trust’s broader mission is to promote public awareness of how King’s Lynn has developed since 1100, with special attention to its historic built environment.

The town rests in the premier league of England’s historic towns and for the Trustees Marriott’s Warehouse is a ‘gateway’ building through which the discovery of the ancient Wash port can commence. Displays, talks, day schools and even historical dramas are all held within its walls, a restaurant on the ground floor is run independently on licence from the Trust, and groups can hire the second floor lecture room.

Since 2000, Marriott’s Warehouse has become recognised as an outstanding heritage asset contributing much to Lynn’s social and cultural life. The Trust’s main exhibition features the intricate models made by Fred Hall on the first floor. They include important buildings that have now been demolished, and the collection includes the elegant Market Cross of 1711.

Existing historic buildings are shown ‘as new’ such as the Merchants’ Exchange or Custom House of 1685. Each model

KLmagazine February 2016

is accompanied by 200 words of framed text to assist the visitor and a brochure offers more individual histories.

A town model of how Lynn appeared between the Millfleet and Purfleet around 1600 is also on display that shows Marriott’s Warehouse against the river! Such models appeal to both adults and children who can learn a great deal about historic King’s Lynn.

Adjacent to Marriott’s Warehouse is the Hanse House, owned by German merchants of the Hanseatic League until 1751. It was a trading post or ‘kontor’ and this Grade 1 listed building is the sole remaining medieval business headquarters of the German Hanse to have survived in England. It was restored by Norfolk County Council between 1969-71 but sold in 2011 to

local businessman James Lee, who has brought new life to Lynn’s riverside quarter by converting the premises into a bistro and bar, art gallery, indoor market and function room. The lobby of the Hanse House features Fred Hall’s superb model of the complex when it was originally newly built.

On the river opposite the Hanse House are the Ouse pontoons installed in 2013 to attract leisure craft to Lynn, facilities that were ideal for the mooring of the 14th century replica Dutch merchant vessel Kamper Kogge in May 2015 during the Hanse Festival.

The Hanse Festivals of 2009, 2014 and 2015 have used the riverside for medieval markets and concerts to great effect, and the town’s Heritage Open Day in September makes the most of the waterside too. The Tourist

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Local Life

ABOVE: One of Fred Hall’s models currently on display at Marriott’s Warehouse in King’s Lynn. It actually shows how close the warehouse was to the river when originally built. Below is a painting of King’s Lynn from the South West by acclaimed artist Walter Dexter

Information Centre at the Custom House is the ideal location to direct visitors to Lynn’s exceptional maritime quarter of historic streets, lanes and quays.

The decline of waterside industries and port facilities from the Boal Quay to Purfleet had blighted the South Quay by the 1990s, but regeneration via the Borough’s Millennium Project and private investment followed.

Other east coast towns such as Newcastle and Ipswich have reversed riverside decline with similar projects, and the restoration of historic buildings for residential and commercial uses combined with cultural attractions have made a huge difference to these port towns. Civic identity and image benefit as a result.

Lynn’s great river and Old Town are valuable heritage assets which are fostering its future prosperity and success as a North Sea community, but there’s still more to do. For starters, the Purfleet needs a ship! Perhaps the Baden Powell, King’s Lynn’s oldest fishing smack (currently undergoing restoration) could find a mooring here?

The former silo site on the South Quay awaits appropriate development too. As King’s Lynn reconnects with its traditional trading partners in Europe through membership of the New Hanseatic League, encouraging more tourists and entrepreneurs to discover the town for themselves, perhaps a ‘Hotel Hansa’ isn’t too fanciful?

Marriott’s Warehouse Trust is

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planning a new display on ‘The South Quay Story’ and other activities throughout 2016, and a series of Sunday talks begins on 20th March. For details, contact the Trust’s Project Manager Rebecca Rees by e-mailing info@marriottswarehousetrust.co.uk or calling 07582 037301. There’s also a Friends Group if you’d like to support the Trust’s future educational and heritage projects.

The views of King’s Lynn across the Great Ouse west and south have intrigued local artists over the years, and none more than Walter Dexter (1876-1958). He captured the mood and character of the port with his marvellous panoramas in the first half of the 20th century, and his paintings show a fascinating juxtaposition of medieval and modern industrial buildings from a time when the South Quay was still a working part of the port.

“That is Lynn at a glance,” he wrote, “a view both exceptional and arresting.”

KLmagazine February 2016

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A new look and a new era for local motorists...

Duff Morgan celebrates the latest chapter in a 100-year history with the completion of its new-look showrooms in King’s Lynn

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ou can never accuse Duff Morgan of standing still. With a proud and successful motoring heritage stretching back to 1909, the family-run company has grown to become one of East Anglia’s premier Citroën dealerships.

They’re actually one of the top three Citroën dealers for customer satisfaction in the whole of the UK, and the King’s Lynn centre received the national Dealership of the Year award only a year after opening five years ago.

“It’s been a huge success from day one,” says Sales Manager Martin Seal. “As far as Citroën is concerned we soon reached the point where we simply couldn’t expand any further – so we decided to widen our offering to local

KLmagazine February 2016

motorists and provide them with more choice.”

That choice has been achieved by Duff Morgan being awarded the local SEAT franchise, and sees the company bringing the innovative brand to King’s Lynn for the first time in over a decade.

“The current Citroën, DS and SEAT ranges are complementary in terms of the driving options they offer,” says Martin.

“Together they can meet the needs of virtually everyone – from sporty types to business users and people looking for a quality family car.”

The arrival of SEAT coincides with the completion of Duff Morgan’s latest project that includes renovated and refurbished showrooms for each

marque, an expanded dedicated Business Centre, a larger range of new and used vehicles, improved sales and service facilities, and a host of other customer-friendly refinements.

“We’re justifiably proud of our new showrooms, and they will really benefit all our customers – both new and existing ones,” says Martin. “At Duff Morgan we’ve got a great tradition behind us, and it’s very exciting to be moving forward in new and exciting directions.”

With a full range of demonstrator models available now, there’s never been a better time to book a test drive with Duff Morgan.

information

Duff Morgan 49 Bergen Way, North Lynn Industrial Estate King’s Lynn, Norfolk PE30 2JG Tel: 01553 770144 Web: www.duffmorgan.com

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CALLING ALL

ARTISTS!

ARTIST OPPORTUNITY

|

OPEN CALL

|

CALL FOR ENTRIES

City Gallery Gallery,, Peterborough Peterborough is ple pleased ased tto o announc announce e its 2016 Open Exhibition ccall all out

eb 2016 Entiress - 22nd FFeb or Entire ine ffor Deadl Deadline PREVIEW 17 March 2016, 6pm EXHIBITION D DATES ATES 18 March – 15 June 2016 You can download the Entry Form from the website www.vivacity-peterborough.com/event/calling-all-artists-2016-open-exhibition en-exhibition

Email: arts@vivacity-peterborough.com Call: 01733 864531

Wine Dine

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This fascinating exhibition at Ely Cathedral celebrates the art of contemporary calligraphy, letter carving and fine printing.

In the beginning was the Word An exhibition of Letters; Cut, Written, Printed

3 – 28 February 2016 Monday – Saturday | 9am – 4pm Sunday | 12noon – 4pm Price £8.00 | Student £2.50 (includes Cathedral entry) Children under 16 free when accompanied by an adult

www.elycathedral.org

CALL NOW

TO BOOK 01366 347 995 Book a table for two on a Friday or SSaturday aturday night up until the end of February and you’ll get to stay in one of our beautiful double rrooms ooms for HALF PRICE! of fer includes: 3 course à la carte dinner and The offer breakfast for only £125. bed & breakfast

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BERNEY ARMS www.theberneyarms.co.uk www .theber neyar ms.co.u k

Church Church Road, Barton Bendish PE33 9GF Subject to availability availability.. TTerms er ms & conditions apply apply..

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KLmagazine February 2016

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Coming soon...

Friday 11thSunday 13th March

KING’S LYNN FICTION FESTIVAL King’s Lynn Town Hall PE30 5DQ The King's Lynn Literature Festivals have been running in an unbroken annual series since 1984, and this year’s fiction events are held over the second weekend in March.

Authors involved in the event include Sophie Hannah, Simon Mawer, Christopher Bigsby, Piers Paul Reed, Jonathan Smith, Patricia Duncker, D J Taylor, Daisy Waugh and James Wilson. Come along to meet them, hear them reading and buy their books from the festival’s well-stocked book stall. Tickets are £8.50 per event and £37.50 for a season ticket, you can purchase them by calling 01553 691661. For more details on this event visit the website www.lynnlitfests.com.

Sunday 6th March

MOTHERING SUNDAY AFTERNOON TEA Peckover House PE13 1JR (2pm-4:30pm) The perfect setting for a Mother’s Day treat for all of the family. Experience a special afternoon tea served in the Reed Barn Tea Room, situated in the beautiful historic surroundings of Peckover House. Why not take a walk around the beautiful Georgian Town house itself and picturesque walled gardens. Booking is essential and tickets are £11.95 for adults (£20.95 with sparkling wine) and £4.95 for children - for more information visit the website www.nationaltrust.org.uk.

Saturday 5th March CLEAN FOR THE QUEEN Wells Beach (10am) Holkam Beach (2pm) To help celebrate Her Majesty the Queen’s 90th birthday, Holkham National Nature Reserve are holding a ‘Clean for the Queen’ event!

There will be two sessions, one in the morning from Wells Beach and the second in the afternoon at Holkham Beach, with each session lasting for two hours. As well as looking unsightly, rubbish can be a hazard. Plastic is a serious concern for wildlife and the RSPB have found that 90% of Fulmars found dead along the North Sea Coast had ingested plastic, mistaking it for food. So why wouldn’t you want to help? All you have to do is turn up with plenty of enthusiasm, as everything else is provided. For more information on how you can be involved, please contact Sarah Henderson on 01328 800730 or s.henderson@holkham.co.uk.

KLmagazine February 2016

Wednesday 16th March CHRIS STANBURY IN CONCERT St John's Church, Blackfriars Road PE30 1NT Presented by King's Lynn Organ Club, electronic organ player Chris Stanbury will be gracing the St. John’s Church stage with music catering for all tastes - from classical through to jazz and to pop. Admission is £5 for members and £6.50 for non-members, on the door. For further information contact 01553 671285 or visit the website www.organfax.co.uk/clubs/kingslynn.

Tuesday 15th March

BRANCASTER CAMERA CLUB: AN EVENING WITH DAVID TIPLING Brancaster Staithe Village Hall PE31 8BZ (7.30pm) Brancaster Camera Club is hosting a talk with internationally recognised Author & Wildlife Photographer, David Tipling.

David is renowned for his artistic images of birds, and is winner of the documentary award for the European Nature Photographer of the Year (2002) for his work on emperor penguins. More recently, in 2013 after 6 years work visiting 39 countries on all seven continents his critically acclaimed book Birds & People was published. To come and hear about his wild and wonderful tales, there is an entry fee of £5 which include refreshments. Visitors are welcome. For more information contact Jim Till (Chairman) on 01485 210013 or Wendy Calow on 01553 674725.

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February highlights At King’s Lynn Corn Exchange THE ELVIS YEARS Saturday 6th February | 7:30pm An outstanding musical production, which brings to the stage the incredible and compelling story of the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll’. With a top line-up of actor-musicians, multiple costume changes and nostalgic film footage, this glittering production charts the musical and emotional highs and lows of Elvis’ amazing journey.

THE NOISE NEXT DOOR Noise In The Hood (16+) Thursday 18th February | 8pm The unstoppable comedy juggernaut that is The Noise Next Door are turning up the volume for their third national tour! Get ready for a night of mind-blowing songs, jaw-dropping characters and side-splitting punchlines from the undisputed masters of off-thecuff comedy. This show is set to be their biggest and best yet. In a relaxed cabaret style setting.

THE ELO EXPERIENCE Friday 26th February | 7.30pm The ELO Experience are the world's foremost tribute to this great band. With a stunning light show and large screen projection to further enhance the experience, why not come along and enjoy this incredible show which accurately reproduces the songs and sounds and takes you on a musical journey through time.

WATERLOO - The Best Of ABBA Saturday 27th February | 7.30pm Waterloo looks back at the sensational rise to stardom of Agnetha, Bjorn, Benny and Anni-Frid and gives fans the opportunity to experience the thrill of a live Abba show!

The unique Abba sound is replicated with an incredible attention to detail by a full live cast and band - with stunning costumes and choreography.

THE JOHNNY CASH STORY Sunday 28th February | 7.30pm Roger Dean has been playing Cash’s music most of his life and with his band The Lazy Boys will keep you spellbound with his knowledge of the country music legend. Between singing classic numbers such as Big River, Ring Of Fire, I Walk The Line, Sunday Morning Coming Down and Hurt, Dean describes Johnny’s rise from poverty stricken beginnings in rural Arkansas to world stardom.

Tickets for all shows are available from our Box Office on 01553 764864 or book online at: kingslynncornexchange.co.uk @klcornexchange

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@klcornexchange

Alive Corn Exchange

KLmagazine February 2016

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Half Term fun at the Alive Leisure venues We have some great activities to keep kids entertained this Half Term!

ALIVE CORN EXCHANGE PEPPA PIG’S SURPRISE Saturday 13th & Sunday 14th February Sat 1pm & 4pm | Sun 10am & 1pm Surprise! Peppa Pig, George and their friends are back with a brand new live stage show, Peppa Pig’s Surprise. Enjoy fun, games and of course, surprises in this charming, colourful new show with new songs and new life size puppets, it promises to be the perfect theatre show for all pre-schoolers!

THE HOLLYWOOD SPECIAL EFFECTS SHOW (6+) Friday 19th February | 7pm Get closer to the action than ever before as this interactive and explosive family show takes you behind the scenes of your favourite films to discover the science and secrets of creating movie magic. Join the team of professionals for a revealing insight into the world of special effects; feel the heat from an onstage inferno, get up close with gruesome sci-fi monsters and hold on tight through huge explosions!

ALIVE LYNNSPORT Tel: 01553 818001 Holiday and Breakfast clubs every day!

Plus Tumble Teds, Badminton, Junior Trampolining, Junior Gymnastics, Roller Skating, Indoor Adventure Play and Gladiator Challenge.

National Pool Lifeguard qualification course.

ALIVE ST JAMES POOL Tel: 01553 764888 Swimming Crash Courses and Family Fun sessions.

ALIVE DOWNHAM LEISURE Tel: 01366 386868 Activities include Benchball, Dodgeball, Roller Skating, Junior Fitness, Arts and Crafts, Fitness Activity Hunt, Run Around Games, Archery, Football Fun, plus Swimming Crash Courses and Family fun sessions.

Limited spaces available, call now to book and guarantee your place.

For the full programme of what’s on this Half Term at the Alive Leisure venues, pick up a copy of our Half Term brochure out now or check out the website www.aliveleisure.co.uk

ALIVE OASIS Tel: 01485 534227 Activities include Fun Castle Challenge, Dodgeball, Junior Fitness, Table Tennis, Run Around Games and Swimming Family Fun sessions.

Plus the chance to enrol on a

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PICTURES: THE LANDMARK TRUST

Local Life

ABOVE: The West Lodge at Houghton and the iconic water tower at Appleton (opposite) are just two of the important buildings rescued and restored by The Landmark Trust – and are now offered as atmospheric holiday homes

The local holiday homes with a unique difference For half a century, a remarkable charity has been taking historic buildings in danger and sensitively restoring them to be enjoyed by all. Sylvia Steele looks at the local work of The Landmark Trust

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he Landmark Trust is celebrating 50 years in the holiday home business, but it’s a far cry from country cottages and newly-built coastal retreats. These are holiday homes with a difference. A big one.

The Landmark Trust was founded by philanthropist Sir John Smith and his wife Christian, two leading figures in conservation and enthusiasts for historical structures who decided something had to be done to prevent the loss of so many historical buildings through neglect.

It was a huge undertaking as they took on the restoration of properties

KLmagazine February 2016

too damaged or outmoded for larger organisations to take on.

But Sir John didn’t see his restored buildings as museum pieces to be admired from afar behind rope barriers and no entry signs. His remarkable idea was to make them habitable and offered as holiday homes for everyone to enjoy.

Over the years a galaxy of surprising properties has been added to the Landmark Trust portfolio – some are quirky, some are quaint, but all of them are unique.

I was fascinated to learn more about their work in our area. The Trust currently owns nearly 200 properties

throughout Britain, of which 17 are in East Anglia – and three are very close to home indeed.

A short distance along the B1440, with the woods of Sandringham on either side, Appleton Water Tower dominates the countryside, towering above the firs and nearby orchards with far-reaching views across the landscape to the sea from its top. Its nearest neighbour in a hamlet of farm cottages is the crumbling church of St. Mary’s.

The tower is now a select holiday venue, with pristine brickwork unrecognisable from the distressed building it had become when no longer

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PICTURES: THE LANDMARK TRUST

Local Life

ABOVE: The Now under the care of The Landmark Trust, the beautiful 15th century Old Vicarage at Methwold was originally rescued by Monica and Harry Dance, who ran the Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings

required to perform its original purpose.

The Landmark Trust was delighted to be given the opportunity of working on a structure of such high quality and saw it as an ideal project for restoration and to provide holiday accommodation in a superb location wreathed in history.

Appleton Water Tower was built in 1877 following the need to upgrade the supply of clean water to Sandringham House. The neo-Byzantine design of differing shades of red bricks made it an iconic signpost.

Taking advantage of its far-reaching views, the second floor room was used by the Royal Family and their guests from Sandringham House as a viewing room whilst attending shooting parties or picnics in the Appleton countryside.

Younger members of the Royal Family laid foundation stones to mark the start of the building work – and by a strange coincidence, its first holiday visitors arrived exactly a century later.

But there was much work and alteration needed before this milestone was reached. The tower had served its purpose well for many years under private ownership, but eventually came under the auspices of the local water authority until 1973, when it became surplus to requirements. It stood empty for three years until leased to The

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Landmark Trust.

The intervening years had taken their toll and the tower was in a sad state, requiring considerable internal alteration to make it habitable. The grounds had become overgrown with thickets, and a miscellany of old outbuildings had to be demolished before restoration work on the tower could commence.

One of the most significant works was the installation of an internal staircase linking the floors – and an iron spiral staircase still leads to the viewing platform.

A few miles away from Appleton Water Tower, quiet lanes lead through open country to the street of whitewashed cottages at Houghton, with the grandeur of Houghton Hall in the distance. One of four lodges built in the 1840s now guards the entrance to the Hall on which Britain’s first Prime Minister devoted so much consideration and funds. Houghton West Lodge is an unpretentious and cosy cottage standing back from the country road with woodland and wildlife close by and the sense of the sea forever in the air.

With so many properties in need of restoration, The Landmark Trust has formulated specific criteria for the

rescue of a building, requiring it to be historically important and in a location offering an attractive place for a holiday.

Situated at the junction of Norfolk, Cambridgeshire and Suffolk, surrounded by peaceful countryside and close to Oxburgh Hall, the 15th century Old Vicarage at Methwold certainly meets those criteria.

Many visitors may wonder why such a beautiful timber-framed house would have been built for the fenland village priest – it would have been a very pretentious home in the centre of this pretty village.

The maxim of The Landmark Trust’s founders was clear – ‘to offer homes for anyone to enjoy’ so it comes as no surprise to learn that in celebration of their 50 years in the holiday homes business, the company offered 50 free holiday breaks.

But not just to anyone. The breaks were given to charities, educational and non-profit making organisations – underlining the Trust’s commitment to restoring and preserving our heritage for future generations to enjoy.

For more details on the continuing work and the properties of The Landmark Trust, please see the website at www.landmarktrust.org.uk

KLmagazine February 2016

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With Magpie Security, you’re in very safe hands!

A complete service from antique keys to state-of-the-art safes... hether you’re at home or work, the security of your property is a sensitive area – and choosing a locksmith to ensure your valuable possessions are adequately protected calls for very careful consideration.

Surprisingly, the UK locksmith industry is currently unregulated – which makes it even more important that you contact a reliable, professionally-accredited company for your security needs.

Magpie Security in King’s Lynn was founded by former Crime Prevention Officer Bob Angell and his wife in 1987, and in addition to being fully-qualified members of the Master Locksmith’s Association the company is currently the only locksmiths in the UK to hold a Royal Warrant of Appointment, a distinction which was awarded to Bob in 2010.

Specialists in all types of property security solutions, Magpie Security prides itself on high levels of knowledge, workmanship, convenience, value for money and customer service – and

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KLmagazine February 2016

offers everything from the restoration and repair of antique locks to the very latest technology such as anti-snap cylinders and electronic access control systems.

Along with police approved key guards and gun cabinets, Magpie Security also offers over 100 different safes, from lightweight models for the home to data safes able to withstand temperatures of up to 900°C. “It’s not as easy as simply buying a safe anymore,” says Master Locksmith Simon Angell, who works alongside his parents in running the family business.

“It can be a complex field as you need to fulfil the requirements of your insurance company and understand concepts such as ‘cash ratings’ – you have to get it right, and we can offer you all the help and advice you need in choosing the safe that suits your individual needs.”

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For a professional and friendly look at your current security provision and how that could be improved, contact Magpie Security today for a free security survey – and ensure the protection of your most valuable possessions is in the safest possible hands.

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PICTURES: AUDREY MURIEL STRATFORD CHARITABLE TRUST

Local Life

ABOVE: Audrey Stratford (right) around 1950 at the launch of a book celebrating the history of the Australian Federation of University Women

The remarkable life and legacy of Audrey Stratford KL magazine looks at the life of Audrey Stratford – an astute local businesswoman who was also a highly-respected expert on knitting and a true champion of the heritage of King’s Lynn...

K

ing’s Lynn has been the home of some truly remarkable women.

Needing no introduction, Margery Kempe wrote the earliest surviving autobiography in English, while the town’s Frances Burney was once described as the mother of English fiction.

Closer in time, but no less remarkable for that, was Audrey Muriel Stratford – a local businesswoman genuinely ahead of her times, who became a highlyregarded authority on everything from business management to knitting, and went on to leave a lasting impact on the preservation and promotion of the

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heritage of King’s Lynn.

She was born in Johannesburg on September 2nd 1907, the only child of George and Emily Stratford – her father had followed in the footsteps of his ironmonger father and had sought his fortune in South Africa, becoming a successful businessman, railwayman and stationmaster.

By the time of the outbreak of the First World War the family had returned to England, and Audrey’s father worked for the Army Service Corps as an enlister in King’s Lynn, health issues preventing him from joining the infantry. Audrey’s parents soon made the town their home, and on November

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9th 1918, three days before the end of the war, the local newspaper carried an advertisement for a new business called Stratford’s Army Supply Stores in the town’s Norfolk Street.

In addition to selling new (and used) army boots and clothing to farmers and workers of all trades, George Stratford sold virtually anything he thought would prove a successful bargain and fulfil the needs of local people. It was a winning idea, and the company he founded will be celebrating its centenary in two years’ time. The Stratfords even found time to run a popular coffee house on the corner of the High Street and Purfleet Street in King’s Lynn.

As for Audrey, she was educated at Thoresby College and Lynn High School before attending Bedford College (part of London University) from 1925-1930, from which she graduated with a Bachelor of Science in physiology. She began lecturing at Dartford in Kent and at the Chelsea College of Physical Education, where she joined the British Federation of Women Graduates.

Audrey remained teaching in Chelsea until the Second World War, when she was evacuated along with the rest of the college to North Wales. After the war she returned to Chelsea and spent some time in Western Australia.

Following the death of her father, Audrey finally returned to King’s Lynn in the early 1950s to help her mother run the family business – which by then had branches across Norfolk, Lincolnshire, Cambridgeshire and Suffolk. In addition to becoming an astute businesswoman, she also developed her (many) other interests at the same time.

One of these was knitting – and KLmagazine February 2016

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Local Life Audrey Stratford became a respected expert on the subject.

“Audrey had a real passion for knitting and even published a book on the craft,” her second cousin Mrs Sharman Kunes once recalled. “She was interested in seeing just how far she could take it – but she never followed a pattern and she never used the same knitting language as others!”

Indeed, Audrey once even had a local carpenter make her a pair of giant knitting needles from a pair of broom handles, needles she could wield and use more than capably!

In addition to her books and articles on knitting, Audrey also published a successful series of works on business management.

She also had a keen interest in the heritage of King’s Lynn, playing an active part in the cultural life of the town and being a member of the Lynn Society of Arts and Sciences. She was always fascinated by new technology, and considered a range of contemporary scientific questions – particularly regarding the addition of salt in people’s diets and the fluoridation of water (to which she was strongly opposed). But it was another interest of Audrey’s that was to have the most enduring impact.

An inveterate collector, she never threw anything away (not even old airplane tickets from the 1940s) and was committed to preserving local records and information, particularly on the commercial life of King’s Lynn.

Audrey amassed an unusual and extensive collection of memorabilia, records and documents on the town’s past, and it was this treasure trove of local history that led to her approaching solicitor Ian Hamilton around 1992 to make her will and set up the charitable trust that bears her name to this day.

The Audrey Muriel Stratford Charitable Trust became operative after Audrey died on May 23rd 2000 – when the bulk of her estate, the properties

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PICTURES: Audrey Stratford pictured as part of a King’s Lynn hockey team in 1925 (top), on her graduation day from Bedford College in 1930 (above left) and on the release of one of her many books on business management (above right). Below is a rare family portrait of Audrey’s parents. Her father George founded the local business Stratfords in 1918.

she owned and her shares in the family business all went into the Trust.

It took an archivist a year to catalogue her vast collection, which is currently (and temporarily) stored at the Norfolk Records Office while work is undertaken at King’s Lynn town hall.

“Audrey’s archive is of importance to the Trust, of course, but it’s of particular importance to those researching various aspects of King’s Lynn,” says the Trust’s present Chairman Jeff Hazel. “It offers a fascinating glimpse into the past, and includes everything from books and records to carrier bags and till rolls!”

The main aim of the

Trust is to stimulate and promote interest in the King’s Lynn area, and regularly considers new projects, sponsors various local events, and has even commissioned a series of films on the life of the town – and one on the life of Audrey herself.

“Audrey was very interested in the town and was anxious that others be encouraged to continue her interest,” says Jeff. “I think her legacy is extremely important to the town and her work has undoubtedly created a great deal of interest in the past of King’s Lynn, especially its more recent commercial history.”

For more details on the work of the Audrey Muriel Stratford Charitable Trust and information on the King’s Lynn History Project, please see the website at www.amstratford-trust.org

KLmagazine February 2016

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T: 01553 768613 | W: www.thefentshopkingslynn.co.uk KLmagazine February 2016

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A world of antiques just waiting to be discovered A treasure trove of choice at the Antiques Emporium at Tottenhill t’s where a Chippendale wine table rubs shoulders with an early 20th century samurai suit, and where an antique French clock meets a hairdryer from the 1950s. Welcome to the Antiques Emporium, which opened last July just outside King’s Lynn and brings together a vast collection of antiques and collectables from some 14 different dealers – all with different tastes and specialities – under one roof.

In addition to high quality furniture and true fine antiques, the Antiques Emporium (which is open seven days a week) features a glittering range of vintage and retro pieces, silver and jewellery, collectables and memorabilia, cut glass and porcelain – and even a small selection of vintage clothing.

It’s all the brainchild of Jane Harper, whose lifelong love of antiques followed her from a career as a business consultant to a presence buying and selling pieces online to the opening of

I

KLmagazine February 2016

one of the largest antique centres in the area.

“Our stock changes on a regular basis, so there’s always something new to discover here,” she says. “What’s more, the dealers often carefully source and select their goods from outside the local area, so we always have some really unusual pieces.”

For people renovating period property or looking to add to their collections, Jane’s sure the Antiques Emporium can help them find exactly what they’re looking for.

“We can probably furnish a home from top to bottom,” she says, “and don’t forget that a single antique can look fantastic in a modern home. We can even source pieces if you’re looking for a specific item or style.”

There’ll be even more antique wonders to choose from next month, when the Antiques Emporium holds the first in a regular series of mini Antiques

Fairs.

“We’re hoping to have around 20-30 pitches on site during the day for people to come and browse an amazing range of antiques and collectables,” says Jane. “It should be very exciting, and if anyone’s interested in having a pitch of their own, they should contact us as soon as possible.”

Antiques Emporium Unit C, Tottenhill Retail Park, Tottenhill, King’s Lynn, Norfolk PE33 OSR Telephone: 01553 810552 Web: http://stores.ebay.co.uk/ theantiquesemporium E-mail: jane@theantiquesemporium.uk

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PICTURES: THE FRIENDS OF LANGHAM DOME

Local Life

ABOVE: Originally built in 1942 to train anti-aircraft gunners, the restored Langham Dome is once again playing an educational role, thanks to a host of interactive displays and exhibits filling its imaginatively-designed interior (opposite)

From wartime facility to local tourist attraction...

It once taught brave young men about to face the Luftwaffe and for years was simply a mysterious shape on the landscape. Charlotte Lockyer traces the changing fortunes of Langham Dome

T

he year is 1942. Britain has been at war for three years.

All over the country, German planes are dropping bombs from the sky, and air raid sirens have become a common sound.

The death toll caused by aerial bombings is climbing higher and higher, and the RAF are desperately trying to combat the threat of these attacks. They have men ready and willing to take down the enemy aircraft, but the training facilities simply don’t exist. How can you teach recruits to fire accurately at a fast-moving aerial target, and remain calm and controlled in the midst of battle, without sending

KLmagazine February 2016

them straight into danger?

Before the war started, the village of Langham was a sleepy little place; barely 200 inhabitants lived there in flint cottages without running water or electricity. The introduction of an RAF base transformed the village into a hive of activity, home to over 2,500 people.

They were mainly service personnel, and came from all over the world; New Zealand, Poland, Australia, and more.

The sudden importance of the village came partly from the construction of a strange-looking building next to the airstrip. This was Langham Dome.

The dome was one of 40 built across the country in 1942, specifically to train

anti-aircraft gunners.

Pioneered by Henry Christian Stephens, innovative, cutting-edge technology projected films of moving aircraft around the sides of the dome.

Trainees used a dummy gun mounted in the centre of the dome to ‘fire’ at the planes. They had to be taught to aim ahead of the aircraft, rather than at it, or by the time their rounds hit, the plane would have moved. Loud sound effects were played to recreate the chaos of a full-scale attack.

Before this simulator was introduced, gunners were unprepared for the realities of aerial attack; there were incidents of young men shooting at the

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PICTURES: THE FRIENDS OF LANGHAM DOME

Local Life

ABOVE: Langham Dome as it is today, following a restoration project spearheaded by the North Norfolk Historic Buildings Trust and the Friends of Langham Dome. Below is an image of the dome undergoing work (and under a great deal of scaffolding) in the winter of 2013

enemy from the ground closing their eyes and firing blindly, or simply panicking and running away. The dome proved invaluable in training recruits to stay calm in battle scenarios.

After the war ended, the dome at Langham remained in use for a time.

However, in 1953 American forces introduced a Skysweeper 75mm automatic radar operated anti-aircraft gun. With this new technology, dome simulation became defunct.

Langham Dome was used for a few years to train Air Cadets in night navigation, and is sometimes still referred to locally as an astrodome.

However, along with RAF Langham itself, the dome closed in 1958. The land was bought by Bernard Matthews, and it became nothing more than a

30

strange structure on the side of a country lane slowly falling into ruin.

Life for Langham Dome wasn’t over quite yet though. Interest in the structure re-kindled with its designation as a scheduled Ancient Monument in 1986. In 2008, Bernard Matthews kindly gifted the land to the North Norfolk Historic Buildings Trust (NNHBT) and in 2010 the Friends of Langham Dome were officially formed.

Kate Faire, FoLD’s Volunteer CoOrdinator, tells us their mission is “to reveal the significance of the Dome and RAF Langham in the defence of Britain during and after World War II, and to remember the sacrifices made by service personnel.”

NNHBT and FoLD worked closely together to this end, and after receiving funding from the Heritage Lottery Fund and English Heritage (in addition to a host of other beneficiaries) restoration began in the autumn of 2013. They were just in the nick of time, as the dome was also placed on the English Heritage ‘at risk’ register the same year.

Happily, the dome was taken off the list just a year later when the restoration was completed. The ribbon was cut on July 19th 2014 and Langham Dome was declared open to the public as an educational visitor centre.

What can we expect from visiting Langham Dome today? Well, you can expect to step back 74 years in time.

Enemy aircraft fly about the walls, the sounds of gunfire ricochets about the room, and the dome’s main purpose is educational once again. Unlike in 1942, however, visitors aren’t being taught battlefield techniques, but rather about the way life worked in RAF Langham during World War Two. Ugly Studios in Norwich, who planned and designed the exhibits, have done a fantastic job of bringing the dome back to life, with dressing up, interactive displays, and even a chance to try your own hand at shooting down enemy planes. Three short documentaries filmed by Eye Film and TV and narrated by Stephen Fry, explain the invention of the dome and explore the lives of those who worked and lived in RAF Langham.

Kate Faire is thrilled by the popularity of Langham Dome, which received over 4,500 visitors in the 2015 season and will reopen for visitors again on Easter Sunday.

“We’re run by volunteers,” she says, “and we’d like to open more in the summer months if we could. Our volunteers are hugely committed to the Dome and are brilliant, but we’d always like more of them!”

For more details and background information on Langham Dome, and for volunteering opportunities, please see www.langhamdome.org.

KLmagazine February 2016

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KLmagazine February 2016

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Air source heating: the choice for local builders...

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he range of quality air source heating solutions available from 4 Way Refrigeration Ltd represents a major step forward in energy-efficient climate control, utilising free heat from the environment rather than generating it solely from traditional fuel sources such as gas, oil or LPG. For the end user, the benefits of air source heating are clear – low running and maintenance costs, low noise levels, reduced energy consumption, and the fact that the system’s performance is unaffected by cooler weather, making it ideal for providing low-cost heat and hot water all year round whatever the weather.

Choosing air source heating from 4 Way Refrigeration Ltd is also becoming the choice of local builders.

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“Air source heating needs no gas supply, no flues and no ventilation,” explains 4 Way Refrigeration Ltd’s Steve Simpson. “It doesn’t need extensive ground works either, which makes it a truly cost-effective installation for all local building projects – from larger developments to self-build projects.”

One of the most attractive features of air source heating is that the system delivers a 30%-50% reduction in CO2 emissions, which is reassuring for environmentally-conscious domestic customers, but is further good news for builders as well.

“Current building regulations do contain clear targets for reducing CO2 emissions, and all new buildings have to comply with them,” explains Steve.

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Recognised and accredited throughout the industry:

KLmagazine February 2016

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ABOVE: Timothy Edmunds of TJE Joinery at his workshop just outside King’s Lynn doing what he loves best – making a staircase!

Working wonders in wood with TJE Joinery!

KL magazine talks to Timothy Edmunds about his specialist joinery work – from stunning staircases to major restoration projects here was probably never any doubt what Timothy Edmunds was going to do for a living.

“Even as a child I loved playing with wood and making things,” he says. “You could always find me in the garage gluing and screwing pieces of timber together.”

Timothy’s natural talents and boundless enthusiasm never left him.

Having completed his NVQ Level 1 and 2 in bench joinery on leaving school, he worked for a number of local joinery shops (taking his NVQ Level 3 at an evening class at the College of West Anglia) before realising his career was taking him down a path he was somewhat reluctant to follow.

“I felt that a lot of the work I was doing was being judged in pure commercial terms,” he says. “Things such as design and craftsmanship and

T

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traditional joinery skills were starting to take second place, and for me they were the most important things of all.”

Deciding to go into business for himself, Timothy found an old barn just outside King's Lynn that proved ideal – and even provided TJE Joinery with its very first project.

“It had been used as an apple packing shed, and it had no windows or doors!” he remembers. “That was obviously the first thing I had to do, and as soon as that was complete and the workshop set up I made a set of gates and a staircase – and I've never looked back.”

Word spread, the business grew, and Timothy soon found his skills in demand for everything from furniture to windows, doors to decorative mouldings, and kitchens to architraves.

“I didn’t have a wife or children at the time so I could work all the hours I

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LEFT: Timothy working on the monumental doors for the restored gatehouse at Pentney Abbey – which won an award for Craftsmanship at last year’s Mayor’s Design Awards

wanted!” he laughs. “I never considered anything or any project beyond our capabilities. I’ve always tended to say ‘yes’ and then figure out how I’m actually going to construct it!”

That ‘can do’ attitude – together with Timothy’s incredible joinery skills – have seen TJE Joinery working on a number of high profile and award-winning projects over the last few years.

In preparation for the London Olympics in 2012, the company constructed a huge pagodastyle roof for a Chinese-style building in Victoria Park, and has recently built (and installed) a new staircase for the Grade II listed railway junction box at Tennyson Avenue in King’s Lynn.

“Projects like these are really exciting,” says Timothy. “It’s not just the challenge – they give you the opportunity to see just how far you can push your skills.”

Those skills were pushed to awardwinning lengths in 2013 when TJE Joinery were invited to participate in the restoration of the gatehouse at Pentney Abbey.

When Howard Barber and Dita Lee embarked on the monumental project, they were committed to using local businesses and traditional skills wherever possible, and were already familiar with Timothy’s work from the doors he’d made for the couple’s home.

This time, however, they were looking for doors with a difference. Made of

KLmagazine February 2016

solid oak, the massive gatehouse doors took Timothy and his team of skilled joiners around 140 hours to make and stand some 4.5m (15ft) high.

“They were obviously the biggest and heaviest doors we’ve ever made,” he says. “It took eight of us to lift just one of them! It was an incredible project to work on – we also supplied the massive oak timbers for the gatehouse roof beams and floors, and found a local blacksmith to make new handles and shoot bolts for the doors.”

There’s no doubt where Timothy’s greatest love lies, however.

“I’ve always enjoyed making staircases,” he says. “We’ve made them in all sizes and all varieties, and we’re probably working on our biggest one to date at the moment. They always present you with a few design challenges and they’re always rewarding to see once we’ve finished installing them.”

As for the future, there’s no danger of Timothy putting down his chisel just yet.

“Every job we do is different and for me that’s always been the appeal of working with wood,” he says. “I’ve got two sons called Tyler and Joshua, so they’ll be putting the T and J in the company name at some point – but as they’re only 2 and 4 at the moment, it may be a while yet!”

TJE Joinery

information

Willow Farm Units, Main Road, Saddlebow, King’s Lynn, Norfolk PE34 3AR Telephone: 01553 6170805 Website: www.tjejoinery.com E-mail: tjejoinery@btconnect.com

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Local Life

ABOVE: Lucy Lavers pictured in Harwich following a two-year restoration project by Rescue Wooden Boats. She was one of the craft that helped evacuate troops from the beleaguered port of Dunkirk in the summer of 1940.

Keeping maritime history alive in Wells...

She took part in the evacuation of Dunkirk, saved 37 lives, and has now been returned to her former glory by a Norfolk-based charity. Sylvia Steele takes a look at the story of the Lucy Lavers

L

ucy Lavers is back home. The 35-foot single engine wooden boat has returned to the Stiffkey boat builders who spent four years in her painstaking restoration. Since an epic trip to France to take part in the 75th anniversary re-enactment of Operation Dynamo (the ‘miraculous’ evacuation Dunkirk in the summer of 1940), Lucy Lavers has been moored at Wells-nextthe-Sea harbour, taking tourists on

36

40-minute trips along the Norfolk coast and attracting a great deal of attention.

The appearance of the little boat generated a huge amount of public interest, a fact borne out by the huge number of visitors Rescue Wooden Boats (the charity responsible for the boat’s restoration) received in support of their pre-Christmas weekend at their visitors’ centre in Stiffkey.

But there’s something more to Lucy Lavers than the occasional fishing trip

or harbour tour. She has a remarkable history that her owners are more than proud to talk about.

Few film clips have evoked such stirring emotions as those of the armada of little boats answering the call to uplift thousands of British and French troops from the beaches of Dunkirk in 1940. Taking part in that daring race against time was Lucy Lavers.

Only completed a few months before, the newly-commissioned

KLmagazine February 2016

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ABOVE: A rare image of Lucy Lavers returning from a service call in Aldeburgh around 1950.

The scale of the task facing the restoration team at Norfolk charity Rescue Wooden Boats can be seen in this picture of the boat taken shortly after she arrived in Stiffkey.

KLmagazine February 2016

lifeboat of the Aldeburgh RNLI station was immediately commandeered by the Royal Navy and along with 17 other RNLI lifeboats arrived in Dover on 31st May 1940 to undertake her first rescue.

Her shallow draft meant she could get close to the French beaches and uplift up to 50 men at a time before transferring them to larger ships unable to approach further inland.

She returned to Ramsgate on 4th June 1940 and resumed her duties at Aldeburgh shortly afterwards. Records show that the Aldeburgh lifeboats were responsible for saving over one hundred lives during the war period.

Lucy Lavers served in the RNLI for 19 years at Aldeburgh before becoming one of the reserve fleet at Wells-nextthe-Sea and Sheringham. She was finally sold in 1968 having notched up 52 call-outs with her crews and saving 37 lives – but the career of the little wooden boat wasn’t over just yet.

She was purchased by the Port of St. Helier and resumed life as a pilot boat in the Channel Islands before spending time as a fishing boat until she was bought by the St. Helier Dive and Ski Club and renamed ‘L‘Esperance.’

Her new name roughly translates as ‘Hope’ and some would say it was a fitting name for a little craft in which so many beleaguered troops had placed their trust in 1940.

Retired from the sea once again in 1997, the boat was in a sad state and had been largely stripped of all but her mahogany hull in the restoration of another lifeboat.

But Norfolk interest in the little boat never died. Enter George and David Hewitt, two wooden boat enthusiasts who’ve spent their lives “mucking about in boats” since their childhoods on the North Norfolk coast. They’d been seeking the whereabouts of Lucy Lavers for some time, and after much exhaustive detective work they discovered what remained of her hull had been found in a reasonably good condition and transferred to the Dunkirk Little Ships Restoration Trust.

She was duly donated to the Norfolkbased charity Rescue Wooden Boats, which was awarded a National Lottery Heritage Fund East of England grant to continue the restoration work.

David and George – with assistance from local boat builder Ben Riches and apprentice Tom Gathercole – spent the next two years working on the boat.

All of them share a passion for wooden boats.

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History

ABOVE: The lovingly restored Lucy Lavers, pictured right in her days as a lifeboat and (below) during her painstaking two-year restoration at Rescue Wooden Boats in Stiffkey

“It’s an art that’s truly dying out,” says George, who founded Rescue Wooden Boats with his brother David and enthusiasts Wendy Pritchard and Graham Peart. Thrilled to receive the grant to continue restoration of Lucy Lavers, the aspiration of the charity was always to complete the work in time for the commemorative visit to Dunkirk in May 2015. And they never lost sight of their goal.

Apart from presenting the lifeboat lovingly restored to its former glory, the aim of the exercise was to tell the story of Lucy Lavers; to encourage people to recognise the place she holds in British maritime history and to learn about the world-changing events she took part in.

On 11th April 2015, Lucy Lavers rolled down the slipway at Wells-next-theSea to commence her voyage around the coast of Norfolk and Suffolk. In her RNLI colours and proudly flying the Dunkirk Jack at her mast, it was a breathtaking moment for the Norfolkbased restoration team.

The voyage was planned to call at Lowestoft, Southwold, Aldeburgh and Harwich before arriving at Ramsgate to lay-up for three days before dawn of the big day – a total round trip of some 385 nautical miles.

Today, Lucy Lavers is a pretty classy vessel indeed, with her gleaming varnish and brass fittings, and until you visit the visitors centre at Rescue Wooden Boats it’s not easy to comprehend the full extent of the task initially faced by the restoration team.

38

It’s now envisaged that fundraising during the summer will help finance the boat’s winter maintenance.

Rescue Wooden Boats are planning to encourage schools, adult education groups and the general public to learn from the boat’s construction (and restoration) and appreciate the history of the fast-disappearing wooden boat.

In the spring Lucy Lavers will be returning to the quay at Wells-next-the Sea where she’ll serve not only as a reminder of the life-saving work of the RNLI for whom she was originally commissioned – but as a memorial to all those brave crews of the armada of little boats who faced the bombardment of the Dunkirk evacuation in 1940.

For more details and information about Lucy Lavers and the work of Rescue Wooden Boats, please visit www.rescuewoodenboats.com

KLmagazine February 2016

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Kit c he ns | B at hro o m s | B e d ro o m s | T i le s | Plu m b i n g S u ppli es

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Trading for over

years

One of the area’s largest independent showrooms

• 16 kitchen displays, 20 bathroom displays and 4 bedroom displays • Extensive tile showroom with many tiles available from stock • Free design and survey

• Plumbing counter stocking well known brands such as Brett Martin, Bristan, and Granfix Tiling products

• Trade and new build accounts available

• Supply only or full installation service available Find us on Facebook /Quay Centre LTD

Address 28-31a North End, Wisbech, Cambs, PE13 1PE Tel 01945 476797 | Fax 01945 463495 Web www.quaycentre.co.uk E-mail Sales@Quaycentre.co.uk

W West est Norfolk Nor fo olk Glass ol o G ass A family business siness s ssince 1967

Hereford Hereford Way, Wa ay, Har Hardwick dwick Narr Narrows, ows, King’s King’s Lynn, Lynn, Norfolk PE30 4JD

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Specialist installers instta alle ers of: f: • Windows & doors • Garage doors ors rs & car ca c ports p • Por Porches ches & conservatories • Secondary glazing g • Orangeries & sunr sunrooms ooms • Single, g double b ble & triple g laze la azed solutions tiions glazed • PVC rroofline oofline

Call 01553 763164 for a fr free ee quotation

KLmagazine February 2016

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JOBS FOR THE GARDEN

LIVESTOCK FENCING We stock a full range of products in our hardware store.

NO ORD E NG! NO WA RIN ITING! buy wha t yo and take u see a th hat same way day!

in February

Buy seed potatoes and start chitting ready for planting Keep feeding the birds Sow seeds in the greenhouse

Our highly conductive polywire is strong and flexible. Used with our round posts it provides effective control for Equestrian, Agricultural & Animal purposes.

Plant hedging (bare root hedging available) Buy perennials ready for planting

Tel: 01945 881221 Email: sales@fleettimbersupplies.co.uk

www.fleettimbersupplies.com

Prune apple and pear trees Sow broad beans, carrots, hardy peas and parsnips outside in soil warmed by cloches

Fleet House, Mag Magdalen dalen Rd, Tilne Tilneyy St La Lawrence, wrence, King’s King ’s LLynn ynn PE34 4RE

OPEN WEEKDAYS 8am - 4pm

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From 5th March Open Saturdays 8am – 1pm

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Buy summer flowering bulbs ready for planting Clean patios using cleaners such as Patio Magic

Visit Thaxters for everything you’ll need for your garden...

and don’t forget to visit our coffee shop for a relaxing slice of cake or scone!

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STOCK Large selectio n of seed po ! tatoes New season Summer flow s seeds ering bulbs Wild bird ca re

Garden Centre & Coffee Shop 49 Hunstanton Road, Dersingham, King’s Lynn PE31 6NA www.thaxters.co.uk | Tel: 01485 541514

40

Quality plants at wholesale prices EVERYONE WELCOME A wide selection of plants and trees available grown and sourced from our nursery

Trade customers landscapers & retail etc, please take advantage of our loyalty card discount scheme

SHRUBS PERENNIALS HERBACEOUS CLIMBERS

TREES COMPOST

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FIND US AT: School Road, West Walton, Wisbech PE14 7DS KLmagazine February 2016

40_HeritageTreeSpecialists_Layout 1 22/01/2016 16:20 Page 3

BEFORE

AFTER

Getting your trees in good shape for Spring!

Winter pruning is essential to keeping trees healthy, but there’s a real art to it as Dan Ashton of Heritage Tree Specialists explains...

W

inter pruning is essential for keeping our trees in good condition and encouraging healthy re-growth, and with Spring rapidly approaching, there’s no better time to call on the expert services of Heritage Tree Specialists. But there’s a lot more to successful winter pruning than simply making drastic cutbacks.

“There’s a temptation to think a ‘good’ job is a major reduction of the tree,” says Heritage Tree Specialists’ Dan Ashton. “While it’s the easiest thing to do, it can be the worst thing to do as far as the actual tree’s concerned. Our approach is more complex and difficult, but it’s much better for the future life of the tree.”

Together with fellow director James Hoddy and a fully-trained and highlyexperienced team that includes four fully-qualified tree surgeons, Dan uses a combination of innovative equipment and traditional climbing techniques to access trees safely and efficiently.

“Being able to work within the ‘crown’ of the tree is hugely important,” says Dan. “It’s really the only effective way to identify dead or decaying branches and other possible cause for concern.”

Always mindful of the tree’s overall health, Heritage Tree Specialists employ

KLmagazine February 2016

specialist equipment such as ‘cambium savers’ and pulleys to ensure ropes don’t rub the bark from the stem, and replace all pruning saws regularly – ensuring clean cuts which will heal effectively. It’s a level of attention to detail that extends to ground level, where the team at Heritage Tree Specialists uses special lowering devices to carefully control the direction and speed of descent for larger timbers and branches. It means Heritage Tree Specialists can safely reduce trees within confined areas and over sensitive structures such as greenhouses and

conservatories. They’ll even lay ground protection when it’s necessary to prevent damage to fine lawns.

Dan and his team have built a strong reputation for quality workmanship over the years, and once the work is complete Heritage Tree Specialists makes a concerted effort to return the area to its original condition. Timbers are removed, brushwood is chipped and the whole working area is raked and completely cleared. The results speak for themselves.

“There really is a fine art to pruning and re-shaping,” says Dan. “Even now I’m often surprised how the most unattractive of trees can be transformed by a careful and patient approach to the task.”

If you’d like to have your trees – whatever their size – ready for the start of spring and looking their best this year, contact Heritage Tree Specialists now for free professional advice and a fixed quotation.

information

Heritage Tree Specialists Willow Farm Industrial Units, Lynn Road, Saddlebow, King’s Lynn PE34 3AR Tel: 01553 617008 Web: www.heritagetreespecialists.co.uk E-mail: info@heritagetreespecialists.co.uk

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KLmagazine February 2016

42_WNSurfacing_Layout 1 22/01/2016 16:21 Page 3

BEFORE...

AFTER...

Give your driveway the facelift it’s waiting for!

Enjoy a complete professional service from start to finish with WN Surfacing t’s fair to say we tend to take our driveways for granted, and although a quality asphalt drive that’s been properly installed should last anywhere between 20-35 years, the wear and tear caused by heavy use and frost is inevitable.

Whether you’re looking to give your driveway a much-needed facelift or you’re currently building or renovating your home, help is at hand in the shape of WN Surfacing, based just outside King’s Lynn.

Using all the latest technology, WN Surfacing has provided a top quality road surfacing service to commercial clients throughout East Anglia for more than 20 years, working on everything from car parks and utilities to schools and garages and offering high professional standards with unrivalled customer service.

I

KLmagazine February 2016

More recently, WN Surfacing has worked on sites such as Holkham Hall and the Stud at Sandringham and on restoration projects such as the gatehouse at Pentney Abbey (left).

“We've just finished all the footpaths and driveways on a new development at Ringstead

by Bullock Homes,” says the company’s founder Richard Moore. “It’s the perfect example of how we’re bringing all our experience and expertise into the private and domestic field.”

WN Surfacing offers a complete range of services from asphalt replacement to surface dressing, including block paving, patio laying, home sports surfaces – and a wide choice of finishes from tar and chip to resin-bonded stone.

Richard and his team prides itself on providing an unrivalled aftercare service,

and ensures all sites are left in as good – if not better! – condition than they found them.

“Customer satisfaction is one of our top priorities,” he says, “and we even take away all the old tarmac to be recycled and used as a sub-base on future projects.”

Fully accredited within the industry thanks to their track record of working with local authorities and utility companies, WN Surfacing can give your driveway the facelift it’s been waiting for – with a complete professional service from start to finish.

For a free initial visit and no-obligation survey, call Richard and his team at WN Surfacing today.

information

WN Surfacing Riverside Farm, Garage Lane, Setchey, King’s Lynn, Norfolk PE33 0BE Telephone: 01553 601786 Website: www.wnsurfacing.com E-mail: richard@wnsurfacing.com

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KLmagazine February 2016

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Local Life

ABOVE: The unmistakeable beauty of St. Mary’s in Snettisham – its spire is the second highest in Norfolk, and can be seen from miles around

Working together for the future of St. Mary’s The beautiful church of St. Mary’s at Snettisham is over 600 years old but is looking to the future with confidence, thanks to a hardworking team of dedicated villagers, as Clare Bee discovers

S

tanding majestically above the village of Snettisham, St Mary’s Church, built in 1340, is one of the most notable and imposing of the 650-plus medieval churches in Norfolk.

Constructed in the late medieval period, when many churches were built and then subsequently re-built, St Mary’s has importantly survived largely unaltered since the 14th century.

Indeed, the renowned architectural historian Sir Nikolaus Pevsner once described it as being “one of the most exciting 14th century decorated parish churches in Norfolk” – and it’s very hard to disagree with him.

The church, which is Grade 1 listed,

KLmagazine February 2016

has many notable and unique features, one of the most interesting being the three-arched ‘Galilee’ west porch. This is a particularly unusual example in that it has slender arches and fine stone vaulting. Of course, one of St Mary’s most outstanding features is its spire, which is the second highest in Norfolk, only being tipped (literally) to the top spot by Norwich Cathedral. It reaches a magnificent 175 feet (53.5m) high and is a very visible landmark – it may even have been intended as a sea marker for sailors in the Wash.

Snettisham was a place of some importance in Medieval times. Norfolk was a leading wool producer at the time, and many weavers worked in the

village. Indeed, much of the wealth that paid for the church would have come from the wool and textile trade.

At one point, Snettisham was an important port on the Wash, which may help explain why the church is such a size. It was much bigger originally and built in a cruciform shape with a chancel extending over 40 feet beyond the east end. This collapsed in the early 1600s, however, and was never rebuilt, although the outline is still very clear.

But like the majority of churches, St Mary’s is in constant need of renovation and maintenance. To that end, the Friends of St Mary’s was formed in 2012 to raise funds to maintain the fabric of the building and churchyard. Small

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Local Life

communities, however, can find it challenging to maintain these precious buildings without extra assistance, and so the Friends set themselves the task of finding ways to do this.

There was also nowhere in the village where visitors and locals alike could find out about the history and importance of Snettisham. For instance, the village became a notable heritage site following the famous discovery of an Iron Age hoard of gold, jet and metal torcs in the years after the Second World War. The desire of the Friends was to use the church as more of an informative focal point for events and activities, as well as its more common use for weddings, christenings and funerals.

One of the local residents, Edward Stanton, the Treasurer of the Friends of St Mary’s, explains the thinking behind the formation of the group.

“We wanted more people to come to see our church, which is a wonderful building,” he says. “They don’t necessarily need to be worshippers, but just to come and enjoy this beautiful building.”

Alongside all the fundraising, Edward and a group of other like-minded villagers came up with a development plan, and the Snettisham Heritage Project was set up.

The aims and objectives of the project are to celebrate the medieval sacred space of St Mary’s, to interpret the church heritage and village heritage, and to create a separate subdivision of the vestry space for the

46

purpose of children’s work and as a meeting room. In doing so, the project will create a facility to enourage adults and children, locals and visitors to learn more about the area, and provide welcoming access to the church and hospitality to all who visit it.

One of the most important aims of the Snettisham Heritage Project is to educate and inform visitors about the very important archaeological history of Snettisham. The Project commissioned Trevor and Imogen Ashwin from Reepham to produce a series of information boards and leaflets portraying the heritage of the village.

They trace the history of Snettisham and the story of the discovery and consequent journey of the incredibly important Stone Age hoard – parts of which are now on display at both Norwich Castle Museum and the British Museum in London.

The next project in the planning is to focus on a hospitality unit. This will be built by local craftsmen from Flitcham, who’ve already built a similar unit in the church at Old Hunstanton.

Fundraising continues apace to raise funds for these projects. A variety of events have been held recently, including recitals, films and receptions.

Last September a very successful jazz evening was held, following a supper of local Park Farm lamb and an auction of promises.

Even the Government is helping St. Mary’s. Following its December 2014 announcement of a £15 million roof scheme for listed church buildings, St

Mary’s has received over £90,000 of government money – a very welcome donation to boost church funds. Other applications have been made to the Heritage Lottery Fund and Creative Arts East, and donations continue to come in, often from unknown sources and local events. Local businesses are keen to support events at the church in a variety of ways, and all donations, large and small, are always gratefully received.

Our churches are magnificent reminders of our history and heritage.

Maintaining and renovating them for future generations is an important focus for many residents in small communities. St Mary’s Church in Snettisham – with a proud history behind it – is fortunate indeed to have so many dedicated people working hard to make this happen.

For more details and information on St. Mary’s and the work of the Friends, please see the website at www.snettishamchurch.org.uk

KLmagazine February 2016

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HOMEhints

in association with FRIMSTONE LTD

Using gravel to make a bigger impression...

TOPtip driveway, it’s a When laying your gravel vel paving grid. great idea to use a gra e for your bas ble sta They provide a of slipping. risk the uce red and gravel – you too use to They’re very easy your on wn do ds gri the simply lay then and er eth surface, join them tog . vel gra sen cho r you h fill them wit

It’s easy with the expertise of Frimstone on your side! ravel driveways are a great alternative to slabs or block paves, allowing you to get creative and create a wonderful feature at the front of your home – and while you may think of FRIMSTONE as simply a local supplier of high-quality aggregates (albeit one with over 70 years’ experience!) you’d be surprised to learn just how much help and advice we can offer you and your chosen builder or contractor.

For starters, we can help you choose a reliable and reputable business to work with. FRIMSTONE works with some of the most professional builders and contractors in the area, so if you’re looking for some expert help with your driveway (or similar project) simply give us a call and we’ll point you in the right direction.

You’ll also find that when it comes to choosing your gravel, we can ensure you achieve the high-quality look you’re after – efficiently and cost-effectively too.

FRIMSTONE supplies a wide range of gravels for a variety of different finishes and colours, which is largely a matter of

G

personal preference and taste, but we do recommend you use 20mm sized gravel – as it’s easy to walk on, will withstand the weight of car tyres, and won’t scatter about. You’ll also find an easy-to-use Gravel Calculator on the FRIMSTONE website which will save you ordering too much – or too little!

When the ground is being prepared and any unwanted soils or slabs are being removed, it’s always good to know that if FRIMSTONE are supplying your gravel, then we can help you with the disposal of this waste material.

At this stage, you may wish to add sand to the soil for increased drainage performance, and FRIMSTONE always stocks a choice of high-quality sands that are suitable for a variety of uses.

We also usually recommend laying a fabric weed control membrane across the entire surface before the gravel arrives.

This will help prevent weeds from rearing their ugly heads and spoiling the look of your driveway in the future.

Although the gravel itself will weigh this

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down quite effectively, a good idea is to edge this membrane with bricks or decorative stones.

And for a truly premium finish, remember that FRIMSTONE also supplies a variety of quality alternatives to gravel such as granite, limestone and slate.

Your chosen gravel can be brought direct to your home, but you can save on delivery costs (and make life easier for your chosen builder or contractor!) by calling at at any FRIMSTONE location for handysized bags of gravel and sand that can easily fit in your car. However you decide to receive your gravel, ensure it’s placed in an area that will do minimal damage to your lawn – otherwise you’ll soon have another job on your hands!

Once the gravel is finally laid, your new driveway won’t need to ‘cure’ (unlike a paved surface) so you can start admiring and using it immediately!

If you’d like any further information on FRIMSTONE services and products or need some expert advice, please don’t hesitate to contact us – we’re always here to help!

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KLmagazine February 2016

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H2O Kitchen & Bathroom Designs

High quality kitchens and bathrooms at competitive prices

• Great range of styles from traditional to modern • Free no-obligation survey & design • Full fitting service, including plumbing, tiling, electrical work & plastering

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we deliver. we install. we care.

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www.wisbechfurnishings.co.uk 48

PRESTIGIOUS TEXTILES

We’ll deliver and install your new appliances for FREE within 15 miles of King’s Lynn – we’ll even dispose of your old appliances!

* Free delivery and installation applies to purchases over £100

COOPER & ELMS

audio, visual and domestic appliances 30 Tower Street, King’s Lynn PE30 1EJ Tel: 01553 774798 Web: www.cooperandelms.co.uk KLmagazine February 2016

48_EdmontonEstates_Layout 1 22/01/2016 16:26 Page 3

Letting Better Our monthly round up of the latest news and legislation concerning Landlords and Tenants in the private rented sector with Edmonton Estates Director Damien Simone

Independent Lettings & Property Management Specialists

QUI CK FAC TS Don’t forget to arrange a new EPC if your refurbishment includes any upgrades to the heating, windows or insulation.

Refurbished Ideas W

ith Christmas and New Year celebrations firmly behind us and the impending tax changes for buy to let properties looming closer, existing landlords’ and potential new ones alike are considering the viability of investing in another property before April. The property market is not insensitive to this heightened interest and it is speculated that house prices in the first quarter of this year will be artificially high with a potential slump to follow as investors deal harder to cover the cost of their new stamp duty burden from April.

Whether deciding to buy before April or take the gambit on the price slump that is anticipated afterwards and swallow the cost of the stamp duty it is possible that you may want to consider the potential that a property requiring modernisation has to offer. A lower purchase price often reflects the additional expenditure required to bring it up to current standards and the vast majority of costs invested in improving

the condition can be off-set against your tax liability for the year. As appealing as that sounds being a successful property investor is as much about keeping your refurbishment costs down in the first instance as it is about reducing your tax bill.

At Edmonton Estates we offer a full project management service to assist with this which is completely free of charge to landlords who use our full management service. We have a select team of local private contractors with extensive experience in all aspects of refurbishment from a simple redecoration right through to “bare shell” projects which require new plumbing, wiring, plastering, heating systems, kitchens and bathrooms. The long standing relationships that we have with these tradespeople allow us to provide our landlords with highly competitive prices as well as coordinating the schedule of work to minimise both the cost of the project and the length of time taken to

complete it.

We know how best to present a property to appeal to the widest possible spectrum of potential tenants and achieve the maximum return on investment. One of the most rewarding parts of our business is the trust placed in us by some of our portfolio landlords who instruct us to assess refurbishments and property purchases on their behalf often without seeing the house until after completion and in some cases after work has been completed.

We are always interested in hearing from landlords considering new projects or planning to revitalise existing properties who would like guidance on the expectations of tenants in the current market. All of our advice is without obligation and we may be able to offer some useful insight that you hadn’t previously considered.

Call us today on 01553 660615 for more information.

Edmonton Estates Ltd, St Ann’s House, 18 St Ann’s Street, King’s Lynn, Norfolk PE30 1LT 01553 660615 | www.edmontonestates.co.uk | info@edmontonestates.co.uk

KLmagazine February 2016

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West Norfolk: Then and Now

1962

2016

A CHANGING LANDSCAPE...

Many thanks to Andrew Tuck of Downham Market for sending us this early 1960s view of Page Stair Lane in King’s Lynn, looking towards to the Tuesday Market Place.

The property to the right belonged to caravan distributors Whiteley & Creasey Ltd (now the site of the Trinity Quay

housing development) while the building in the centre of the picture was occupied by Lynn Laundry Ltd. To the left is the well-know timber centre of Pattrick & Thompsons.

You can enjoy thousands of images of Norfolk’s history on the website at www.picture.norfolk.gov.uk or by visiting the Norfolk Heritage Centre at

the Millennium Library, The Forum, Norwich (or your local studies library).

We’ll be taking another look back in time at the local area next month.

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

Enjoy thousands of images of Norfolk’s unique history at www.picture.norfolk.gov.uk 50

KLmagazine February 2016

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“

”

We had our whole house installed with new windows and doors by ECOnomy Windows, and are absolutely delighted with the overall installation. We now have a constant heat in our home, which means more economical fuel bills.

We’re really pleased with the overall product and the fitting team were absolutely brilliant. We recommend ECOnomy Windows to all our friends and family whenever they come to admire our new windows and doors.

Mr and Mrs A Gorefield

Clear quality and green thinking from ECOnomy Windows... ou may think that windows, doors and conservatories have very little to do with the environment, but with subjects such as energy efficiency and recycling remaining high on the agenda, people are increasingly choosing products that don’t just look fantastic but have strong green credentials too.

For over 25 years (and throughout more than 18,000 local installations to date) ECOnomy Windows has been committed to introducing innovative products that satisfy the most discerning of customers – and benefit both their homes and the wider environment in which they live.

Take the company’s range of tripleglazed ECOtherm Plus products for

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example. In addition to their stunning good looks, they’re 100% lead-free, A+ rated as standard, can reduce your home’s carbon emissions by up to 70% and can help make your domestic heating bills up to 40% smaller.

It’s no wonder they’ve proved such an unqualified success.

But at ECOnomy Windows, environmental concerns aren’t simply restricted to the products themselves.

“For us, energy saving has never been just a phrase,” says ECOnomy Windows‘ Jim McClure. “It’s something

we’ve stood by for over a quarter of a century now. It also means that on every project we recycle everything we can – the glass, the uPVC, even the timber products. We’re aiming for 50% recycling, and we firmly believe that to be achievable.”

If you’re looking to give your home a brighter, greener outlook for 2016 and want to take advantage of today’s technology, contact ECOnomy Windows or visit the showroom and discover all the high quality and high performing options for yourself.

CONSERVATORY SHOW PARK OPEN SEVEN DAYS A WEEK! Elm High Road, Wisbech, Cambs PE14 0DG Tel: 01945 588988 / 01553 777088 Web: www.economy-windows.co.uk E-mail: mail@economy-windows.co.uk

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5 Station Road, Heacham, King’s Lynn, Norfolk PE31 7HG 01485 571789 | arcoworkshop@posmail.co.uk | www.arcotoolhire.co.uk KLmagazine February 2016

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Totally unique furniture – crafted to your exact wishes How Bespoke Pine n Oak in King’s Lynn can create and handcraft the unique piece of stunning furniture you’ve been looking for...

T

he combination of Kevin Berry’s long experience in the timber trade and the traditional craftsmanship of his fellow director Carl Ingram means Bespoke Pine n Oak can make high quality furniture of any size in any style to fit any room – good news for people looking for something truly unique, and whose dreams run to the more unusual.

People such as Tony Kirkland of West Winch, for example, who couldn’t find

the oak bedroom units he and his wife were looking for – and ended up designing it himself.

“I was really impressed when I first visited Bespoke Pine n Oak and saw Carl’s work,” says Tony, “and although my design included features he hadn’t come across before, it was clear he was going to be able to bring our ideas to life.”

Possibly the greatest challenge was the Kirkland’s wish to have the drawer fronts standing proud of the units (rather than fitting flush) requiring a “We couldn’t have high level of precision, but it was wished for anything something Bespoke Pine n Oak not better – our original only achieved – but actually design has come out improved on.

“They made a really fantastic job,” brilliantly...” says Tony, “and even went to the trouble of matching the wood grain across the drawer fronts. It was

something I hadn't thought of, but it was an absolutely brilliant idea and it looks amazing.”

If you’re looking for top quality, individually made and solid timber furniture of any description, look no further than Bespoke Pine n Oak - no matter how difficult you think your specific requirements might be.

Just ask Tony Kirkland.

“We couldn’t have wished for anything better,” he says. “Our original design has come out brilliantly and it’s true what they say – if you can draw it, Bespoke Pine n Oak can make it!”

information

Bespoke Pine n Oak Ltd 28 Tower Street, King’s Lynn PE30 1EJ Tel: 01553 766532 E-mail: info@bespokepinenoakltd.com

www.bespokepinenoakltd.com

Bespoke Pine n Oak: if you can draw it – we can make it!

KLmagazine February 2016

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Local Life

ABOVE: Even without any background information, your treasured collection of family photographs can tell you more than you may think

Unlocking the secrets of the family album The more you look at old pictures, the more you see – and the more you can discover. Robert Pols applies this theory to a series of family portraits by the early photographers of King’s Lynn...

I

t’s a common experience; you have an album or shoebox of old family photographs, and nobody has ever bothered to label them.

Assorted Victorian and Edwardian worthies gaze sternly at the camera, and you’ve no idea who is who. But if you know when a portrait was taken, you can at least narrow down the list of possible subjects. Fortunately, the photographs themselves hold clues to their dates, along with much other information, as a few examples from the studios of King’s Lynn demonstrate.

The girl in the first picture (1) was

54

taken (as the back of the mount tells us) to William Dexter’s Regent Street studio. But it was Sarah, his wife, who put the child at ease and arranged the pose, for it was the couple’s proud claim that she “personally attends upon all photography, no assistants being allowed in the gallery”. The hand-tinted picture is a ‘carte de visite’ – one of the small card-mounted images that became enormously popular at the beginning of the 1860s. Since the Dexters moved to Athenaeum Parade in 1865, the photo must belong to the first half of the decade.

Not until she reaches her teens will the girl wear a floor-length skirt or have her hair put up, but despite her age she looks undaunted by the studio set’s heavy curtain and painted classical pillar. Admittedly, holding the chair helps her stay steady through a severalsecond exposure, and in the shadow behind her feet is the base of a headrest.

It’s easier to see the head-rest behind the man in the second picture (2). The forward tilt of the woman’s hat and the frilly fussiness of her costume show this couple visited William Woodhouse’s

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1

KLmagazine February 2016

PICTURES: ROBERT POLS / SUPPLIED

studio in the 1870s, but the sitters still needed help in holding a pose, and this was supplied by a pronged head support (or ‘clamp’, as customers were more inclined to call it) fixed on an adjustable pole or to the back of a chair.

The couple are almost certainly being photographed for the first time; they look ill at ease despite the man’s proprietorial pose, and their studio finery has already seen some years of service. But Woodhouse was an aggressively price-cutting photographer, whose slogan “Cartes for the Million!” proclaimed his mission to bring photography within the reach of the poorer customer.

The third picture (3) dates from the 1880s, after the photographer, Walter Sothern Dexter, had returned from running his own Wellingborough studio to take over the family business on William and Sarah’s retirment.

The man’s high-buttoned, shortlapelled jacket is characteristic of the decade, as is the curled brim of his bowler. The 1880s brought a new romanticism to studio settings, with backcloths showing outdoor scenes and real wood forming gnarled fences and stiles. The camera has, by this time, moved a little closer to the subject, and even the rounded corners of the mount give their own hint of changing fashions.

The image, however, is not the only source of information. The back of the mount often has its own story to tell, as the fourth illustration (4) demonstrates.

Photographers generally ordered their mounts from suppliers offering stock

2

designs that could be customised with their clients’ details. On this occasion John Smith, one of Thomas Smith’s sons, has chosen an ‘artist-at-easel’ mount from Marion & Co. Pictorial mounts found great favour in the 1880s, but this is a late design, introduced by Marion in the early 1890s. It fits perfectly with Smith’s promotion of himself as an art photographer – an image he reinforced by sponsoring art exhibitions and competitions.

Naturally enough, his claim to be “Under Royal Patronage” strengthened his appeal to customers of the aspiring classes.

Back in the studio, we come to a portrait by Jasper Wright. Typically of the 1890s, it’s a head-and-shoulders

3 55

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Local Life

4 close-up with the image fading to whiteness at the edges (5). The dark green card and gilt lettering are also signs of the times. Little of the young woman’s costume can be seen, but the billowing fabric at the shoulders shows her dress has the leg-of-mutton sleeves that were highly fashionable around 1895-1898.

Wright has captured a natural, alert expression, despite having only daylight to work by – although when mains electricity eventually reached King’s Lynn in the autumn of 1899, he was quick to take advantage of it. Although looking almost modern, the picture has one feature in common with the earlier examples: the sitter is distinctly solemn.

That’s what was required of a Victorian portrait, which needed to show the dignity and moral worth of its subject.

Nobody wanted to appear

a social lightweight and, as a photographer interviewed by the Angus Evening Telegraph said in 1900, “a smiling picture is likely to border upon idiocy.” All that, however, was about to change. The final portrait (6) was taken by an unidentified King’s Lynn amateur in the early 1900s, and the sitter wears

one of the pale frothy dresses that seem, with hindsight, to symbolise the long Edwardian summer. The picture, confidently composed in an attractive garden setting, is a modern print from the original glass-plate negative. It’s the work of a middle-class amateur who was serious about photography and could afford something more ambitious than the cheap Box Brownies now bringing picture making to the masses.

But there’s something new. The young woman is relaxed and smiling.

Pictures taken by friends and family, rather than by professionals, were beginning to create a new language of portraiture. The job of a 19th century photograph was to say “look at me – I’m respectable!” The purpose of its 20th century equivalent was, increasingly, to say “look at me – I’m happy!”

It would be going too far, of course, to claim there’s more in a photograph than meets the eye. The fact is, there’s exactly as much as meets the eye, and, if we look closely, that can amount to quite a lot.

6

PICTURES: ROBERT POLS / SUPPLIED

5

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KLmagazine February 2016

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KLmagazine February 2016

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Celebrating the art of the image at Fotostop...

An exciting combination of new technology and professional creativity means that FotoStop in Downham Market offers a complete photographic service – from printing to finishing

T

he world of photography has seen some huge changes in the years since Joseph Niepce made the first photographic image in 1827, but it's been almost totally transformed over the last two decades.

“Technology has changed the way we take and use photographs enormously in recent years,” says FotoStop’s Tony Bridger, who first started processing films 20 years ago.

“Happily, I’ve always been determined to keep up with the latest advances and innovations, and there aren’t many businesses that have the level of technical resources or creative

58

capabilities we have here today.”

Indeed, Tony’s continued investment in new technology and commitment to providing the very best customer service means his business in Downham Market offers a complete range of professional photography, processing and finishing services under one roof – a range that’s almost unparalleled.

Taking centre stage is FotoStop’s amazing Noritsu QSS Green II processing lab, which uses the most advanced paper and ink technology to produce high quality prints with a longevity of at least 200 years.

“We were the first people in Europe

to have this technology and there are still only 20 of these machines on the continent,” says Tony. “There’s very little it can’t do, but its real beauty is that it’s so easy to use. Customers can simply plug their phones into the system and choose the prints they want – and the results are fantastic!”

What’s more, you can now choose your prints, assemble photo books and even send your order from home by downloading the software from the FotoStop website – and you’ll receive an e-mail when your prints are ready.

“The software even has built-in editing tools to help you enhance your images,” says Tony. “But if you’re not

KLmagazine February 2016

ORIGINAL PICTURE BY MR HOWLING

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ABOVE: The technical resources and photographic expertise of the FotoStop team are perfectly demonstrated in this image of the Taj Mahal in India, which was transformed from the customer’s original (above) to the stunning picture opposite – thanks in part to the digital removal of a few hundred tourists!

confident, we’ve always got people here with plenty of experience in photo-retouching for help and advice.”

If you’d like to try the software for yourself (and receive ten 6x4 prints free in the process!) it can be downloaded from the FotoStop website at www.mrbee.co.uk – and note you’ll also need to e-mail FotoStop for a special code in order to be able to receive your free prints.

For larger photographs and bespoke prints, FotoStop also has an Epson Stylus Pro 9800, a printer capable of printing high quality images up to 44 inches wide (and as long as you want) on a variety of papers and canvases in a choice of finishes.

“It’s perfect for people who want to explore the creative potential of their images,” says Tony. “For example, we’re about to use it to produce an 8ft print of the famous clock in Downham Market, which will look amazing.”

Of course, it’s not all about the images themselves – and Fotostop also offers a comprehensive framing and finishing service to help you make the most of your pictures.

Tony’s invested in one of the largest

KLmagazine February 2016

vacuum hot presses in the whole country that can fix an image to a variety of surfaces (it’s so big it can even accommodate a door!) and is ideal for older works such as posters and prints that have been rolled or folded in the past – literally ironing out the creases for a perfect, rigid finish.

The final touches are provided by FotoStop’s framing service – aided by one of the most advanced mountcutting machines currently available.

“We always have a huge range of mounts and frames in stock,” says Tony, “from the antique and ornate to the modern and mirrored. What’s more, all our framing is done on-site so we can keep an eye on quality and ensure your images look their very best.”

All this technology works hand-inhand with Tony’s team of genuine enthusiasts – people with a real love of photography and a wealth of professional experience to call on.

Whether you’re looking to print a few holiday images from your phone or want one of your favourite photographs professionally framed and gracing your lounge wall, you only need to make the one stop. FotoStop.

information

FotoStop Studios 22 Bridge Street, Downham Market, Norfolk PE38 9DH Telephone: 01366 382323 Website: www.mrbee.co.uk E-mail: info@mrbee.co.uk

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PICTURES: THERESA BLAKE

Local Life

ABOVE: Theresa Blake’s bespoke wedding dresses combine a touch of historical authenticity with a flair for the unusual – and even take a step into the world of fantasy (opposite) as brides search for a more individual look.

Wedding dresses that dare to be different White has been the preferred colour of choice for brides’ dresses for over 150 years, but a talented local designer is now looking to change all that. Charlotte Lockyer meets Rossetti’s Theresa Blake

T

here’s a certain image which springs to mind whenever we hear the words ’wedding dress’ and it’s invariably one of a flowing white gown. It’s considered by most to be the traditional colour for bridal wear.

However, the tradition isn’t as longstanding as many people think, as it wasn’t until Queen Victoria’s marriage in 1840 that white dresses became the norm. Before this, wedding gowns ranged vastly in colour and style; and thanks to intrepid designers like Theresa Blake, alternative options are now coming back into vogue.

When Theresa started the Theatre

KLmagazine February 2016

Wardrobe course at Wimbledon School of Art in 1988, she was beginning to fulfil a lifelong dream of being involved in the theatre. The love affair began from an early age, when she was taking ballet classes in Watlington.

“I wanted to be on the stage, but I wasn’t tall enough!” Theresa laughs. “I was still determined to be a part of the theatre, however, so I turned to costume making.”

After completing her A levels and a BTEC in Art and Design, Theresa managed to earn a place on a popular course in Wimbledon. There, she learned how to cut, assemble, and finish styles of clothing for both men

and women, which covered centuries of fashion; all, of course, in the highest of quality and finish.

Theresa came straight from the course and started working on a freelance basis with a number of different theatre companies. She was also quickly snapped up to work in a bridal house.

“They were looking for someone with a background in theatre,” Theresa says, “and I was able to work both in the theatre and in the bridal house at the same time.”

After hitting the ground running, Theresa built up an impressive portfolio of experience over the next 10 years;

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Local Life

PICTURES: Two recent commissions by Theresa Blake, whose work has been worn by local brides, Shakespearean actors and international ballet dancers

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increasingly popular, wedding venues were less restricted to the local church.

Couples began to be more adventurous with all aspects of their weddings, and many brides were looking for dresses which reflected their personalities and tastes, and made them stand out from the crowd. With little to no option for this on the high street, more and more people were turning to designers like Theresa.

The famous Lord of the Rings film series hit box offices a few years after Rossetti opened its doors, and a surge in popularity for medieval and fantasy style dresses brought in yet more business and more unique concepts for Theresa to bring to life.

Inspiration drawn from films isn’t uncommon; a local bride recently commissioned a Pirates of the Caribbean themed dress for her wedding in King’s Lynn Town Hall.

“Most of the clients I get are brides who just want to be stood up there wearing something completely different,” Theresa says. “Sometimes the groom will want to get involved as well, and they’ll have a matching suit and dress. I did on one occasion have a couple who wanted their entire wedding party decked out in period dress, which had to be made and then shipped off to Canada!”

Over the years, Rossetti has created some stunning dresses, and Theresa loves to see how her creations perform on the big day.

“Obviously I see the finished dress at

the final fitting,” she says, “but I’m always a little sad if I don’t get to actually see it at the ceremony.”

Luckily, many grateful newlyweds have sent Theresa their photos, and these are proudly displayed on her website.

“The website has turned into a bit of a monster, actually!” Theresa jokes. “I’m thinking about scrapping it all and starting from scratch, but lots of my clients have told me not to dare. They quite enjoy finding their dress amongst the others and looking back.”

From elaborate 18th century ballgowns to contemporary showstoppers, Rossetti showcases the dazzling variety of bridal wear available today for brides who dare to be different.

For more details on Theresa and her work, please see her website at www.rossetticouture.com

PICTURES: THERESA BLAKE

she’s worked with the Royal Shakespeare Company, the Welsh National Opera, Cocoa Designs of Cheltenham, Ritva Westenius, Basia Zarzycka, and many more.

Business was booming, and offers of employment were coming in thick and fast – from prestigious household names like Vivienne Westwood and Elizabeth Emmanuel, no less. In 1998, though, Theresa decided to take the plunge and create her very own couture brand.

“It coincided with a move back to Norfolk,” Theresa remembers, “and I just felt that the time was right to start working freelance.”

Inspired by one of her favourite painters, Theresa named her new company Rossetti, and started making a name for herself with her own unique style of bridal wear. The gowns she made covered a wide range of period clothing, from the 16th century all the way up to contemporary dresses, and even moved into the realms of fantasy.

In contrast to the traditional white or ivory, a Rossetti dress is often brightly coloured, and has more than a hint of the theatrical.

“I wasn’t sure there would be a market for it when I first started,” Theresa admits. “The focus on alternative wedding dresses mainly comes from my own personal taste.”

Her worries turned out to be unfounded, though, as Rossetti managed to find a niche in the market.

As civil ceremonies became

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Weddings

Fashion

No one said that planning a wedding was easy, but whether you’re looking for the perfect venue, the ideal florist, an imaginative wedding cake or an innovative approach to your jewellery you’ll find plenty of inspiration on the following pages. And, of course, the best of our local boutiques will help you enjoy the big day in true style...

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Jacket and dress by Zeila (£498) CINDYS | Sutton Bridge 01406 350961 KLmagazine February 2016

64_Fashion_Layout 1 22/01/2016 16:36 Page 3

HIREWEAR COLLECTION

FREE WEDDING SUIT HIRE*

Free Groom suit hire when your party hires four or more adult suits from our Hirewear Collection. *Offer excludes fancy waistcoats, shirts, shoes and accessories.

Buckingham Collection and Highland Wear are also excluded.

For a brochure and price list please call 01553 772382, or download at www.goddardsonline.co.uk

Individually created wedding flowers Whether it’s a gift, a funeral tribute or wedding flowers all our personalised, handmade creations are made with pride and care and are delivered personally by us. Alternatively if you need your flowers to go further we can send them via Interflora.

Flower Corner

Tel: 01553 774544 49 Norfolk Street, King’s Lynn, PE30 1AG

Elizabeth the Florist

Wellesley Street, King’s Lynn PE30 1QD T 01553 772382 goddardsonline.co.uk

Tel: 01366 384414 23 Bridge Street, Downham Market, PE38 9DW

www.fandabbydaisy.florist

ABACUS MARQUEES your special event is our special event...

the perfect venue for your winter wedding FREE venue hire in November, December and January* Call to view and book. *T&Cs apply.

For further information visit www.caleyhallhotel.co.uk

Ideal for weddings, parties, christenings, conferences, exhibitions, fetes & funerals.

CALEY HALL HOTEL old hunstanton road, old hunstanton norfolk pe36 6hh tel 01485 533486

KLmagazine February 2016

Traditional pole and frame marquees, linings, carpet, furniture, dance floors & accessories.

Tailor-made marquees to suit your requirements.

Call for a FREE site visit and a no obligation quotation:

01328 701331

www.abacusmarquees.co.uk

Chalk Farm, Druids Lane, Litcham, King’s Lynn, Norfolk, PE32 2YA

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Fashion

Wedding Gown by Madeline Gardner for Morilee UNIQUE BRIDE | Castle Rising 01553 631500 66

KLmagazine February 2016

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THE BRIDAL SHOPPING EXPERIENCE YOU’VE A LWAY S D R E A M E D O F Beautiful converted barn setting with a private floor and a glass of sparkling wine for the Bride and her party

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We have a stunning range of bridesmaid dresses in a variety of styles, colours and lengths

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A wide range of gorgeous Mother of the Bride outfits are available and all of our hats and fascinators can be customised to achieve that unique look

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01553 631500 KLmagazine February 2016

|

Castle Farm Barn, Castle Rising, King's Lynn, PE31 6AG 00

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Fashion

Tail Suit by Kempton (from £69.95 for hire) GODDARDS | King’s Lynn 01553 772382 68

KLmagazine February 2016

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A traditional country pub,

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Mention this advert when booking and receive a free bottle of champagne on your wedding day

35 Goodwins Road, King’s Lynn. PE30 5QX

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KLmagazine February 2016

Outfits, Hats & Fascinators for Mother of the Bride

Cindy’s of Sutton Bridge

Sizes 10 - 26 | Opening times 9am - 5pm Closed Wednesdays and Sundays Tel: 01406 350961 108 Bridge Road, Sutton Bridge PE12 9SA

www.cindysfashions.co.uk

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Fashion

Silk Jacket and Chiffon Silk Print Dress by Condici SHEILA TILLER | Long Sutton 01406 363433 70

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A new dimension for wedding rings Totally individual designs by David Auker

Y

our wedding ring is a beautiful symbol of an enduring contract, and that’s why more and more couples are coming to David Auker for something very special and totally individual.

Commissioning your own wedding ring to perfectly match and fit around your engagement ring can be extremely satisfying and a great experience – and we have over 20 years’ experience in crafting beautiful jewellery.

Whether your engagement ring is an original or a treasured family heirloom, at David Auker we offer the chance to have a matching wedding band designed and crafted to

make an inseparable pair. In addition to yellow, white and rose golds, you can choose from a range of precious metals (including palladium and platinum) and select stones (if required) to match those on your engagement ring.

Whatever route you take, and whatever finish you want (highly polished, solid or textured) David will work closely with you to achieve the perfect result for your big day based on your aspirations and budget.

And don’t forget we’re always here for those other wedding essentials – from earrings and bracelets to pendants and charms, from cufflinks and tieclips to tankards and pens.

Creating a wedding ring to fit perfectly around an engagement ring takes care and a flair for design

Sheila Tiller

125 Norfolk Street, King’s Lynn, Norfolk PE30 1AP t: 01553 770536 w: www.davidaukerjewellery.co.uk

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Closed all day Wednesday www.sheilatiller.co.uk

KLmagazine February 2016

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Fashion

Outfit by Condici (£795) OLIVIAS OF SHERINGHAM LTD | Sheringham 01263 823149 72

KLmagazine February 2016

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1E R River iver Lane, Ga Gaywood, ywood, King’ King’ss Lynn Lynn PE30 4HD W Web: eb: www www.motherkrustyscakes.co.uk .motherkrustyscakes.co.uk T Tel: el: 01553 762583

Packages starting fr om £3450 Knigh K Knights g Barn at BEST B WESTERN WE TE ERN PLU PLUS P US Knights Hill Hotel & Spa King’s King’ sL Lynn ynn

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Contact us t: 01553 630393 e: enquiries@leziatepark.co.uk Brow of the Hill Leziate King’s Lynn Norfolk PE32 1EN

www.leziatepark.co.uk KLmagazine February 2016

T: 01485 534411 E: conference@lestrangearms.co.uk e angea ear co.uk o

www.abacushotels.co.uk

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Burnham Market Pine Natural, painted and reclaimed pine furniture We can make to any size or specification and paint any colour to suit your style and budget...

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Dedicated to caring for those you care about We offer a complete range of domiciliary home care services available for full-time or respite care • Local carers with quick response • Minimum of 1 hour visits to 24/7 ‘live in’ care • Carers given person centred training for every client

Tel: 01328 738009 / 07917 202529

Station Garage, Creake Road, Burnham Market PE31 8EA

Open Tues-Sun | www.burnham-market-pine.co.uk

To T o arrange an initial meeting to discuss the care care and needs of you and your family family,, please call Shelly on:

07479 977177 www.bluebellsupportservices.co.uk www.bluebellsupportservices.co.uk

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KLmagazine February 2016

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“

Instead of offering the same ‘cookie-cutter’ solution for everyone, my approach goes behind the pain and treats the root causes of an individual’s problem.

TERRY CONNOLLY Free Your Body Therapy

”

“I can’t explain what he does, but it really works...”

Discover how a revolutionary new form of therapy can help you t Free Your Body Therapy in King’s Lynn, Terry Connolly is using a range of new treatment techniques to finally free people from a life of chronic aches and pains – techniques that continue to take more and more people by surprise.

Diane Blazer from King’s Lynn first visited Terry last September, and had been suffering from lower back and shoulder problems for a number of years, problems she associated with some missing spinal discs and aggravated by a serious fall two years ago.

“I’d seen a number of osteopaths and tried a number of different treatments,” she says, “but nothing offered me any long-lasting relief and the problem just

A

“

I can’t explain what Terry does, but within an hour I could raise my arm above my head. I was astonished!

DIANE BLAZER King’s Lynn

KLmagazine February 2016

”

didn't seem to be getting any better.”

Indeed, when Diane met Terry for the first time she could hardly raise her right arm above her shoulder.

“I thought that if an osteopath couldn’t help me, how could someone like Terry?” she says. “I can’t explain or understand what he does, but within an hour I could raise my arm above my head. I was really quite astonished!”

Currently one of only a handful of people in the entire world offering P-DTR (Proprioceptive Deep Tendon Reflex) as a form of treatment, Terry combines that with AiM (Anatomy in Motion) gait therapy – a cutting-edge method of correcting postural problems, helping with the repair and rehabilitation of injuries and the relief of pain.

But there were more surprises in store for Diane.

“Terry was the first person to ask me if I’d had any surgery,” she remembers, “and I mentioned that I’d had a C-section

16 years ago. He worked on my scar for a while and since then my lower body has felt so much freer – and my lower back has been much less painful.”

For Terry, the link was obvious.

“Scars can cause all sorts of trouble with the way your muscles work,” he says. “Essentially, Diane’s scar had shut down the front section of her body and her back muscles were having to work harder to compensate for that. It was simply a case of getting her body back to working as it should!”

If you’re interested in freeing yourself from chronic aches and pain, contact Terry at Free Your Body Therapy in King’s Lynn today and book an appointment for an initial assessment and consultation.

information

The Fitness Studios Old Dairy Units, Austin Fields, King’s Lynn Tel: 01553 277520 Web: www.fitnesskingslynn.co.uk www.freeyourbodytherapy.co.uk

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love jou l e s? new spring lines now in

at the hayloft

love coffee? then you will love our new coffee shop offering a fantastic range of fresh food & delicious coffee TEL: 01366 388151 | Brighton Mill, Stow Bridge, King’s Lynn, PE34 3PD WEB: www.bearts.co.uk

Lings Country Goods for all your country pursuits

CLIPBUSH BUSINESS PARK FAKENHAM NR21 8SX info@gjlanimalfeeds.co.uk www.gjlanimalfeeds.co.uk

Wide range of top brand country clothing • BARBOUR • DUBARRY • MUSTO • SCHÖFFEL • LE CHAMEAU • CHRYSALIS TOGGI • HUCKLECOTE • DEERHUNTER • SEELAND • HARKILA • ZOO Also stocking guns, ammunition & shooting accessories

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all terrain and utility terrain vehicles Heath Farm, Great Massingham PE32 2HJ www.lingscountrygoods.co.uk www.mortonatv.com | Tel: 01485 520828

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Call now for me to come & deliver to your door, stable, farm or paddock!

01328 851351

KLmagazine February 2016

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Pets

AnimalMatters Our monthly look at the issues concerning you and your pets with Alex Dallas of the London Road Veterinary Centre...

SMALL BITES O

ur local Cat’s Protection at Downham Market name their cats after an all manner of things and recently it’s been our vets. This week myself and Calin had the dubious pleasure of castrating Alex and Calin!

Neutering can help with territorial behaviour and spraying although our colleagues have yet to notice the difference! Alex and Calin are two strapping young lads who are looking for lots of TLC, plenty of food and a warm bed, as are their feline counterparts – contact the Cat’s Protection on 01366 382311 if you would be interested in offering them a home!

Pet vaccinations s in human medicine veterinary medicine is always changing and adapting, with trends appearing and new ideas being adapted. What was normal and correct one year can be considered wrong and in need of change next year.

Vaccinating our pets is one such area.

Overall the history of small animal vaccination has been a triumph, with countless lives saved. We live now in an age where canine distemper, previously a common killer of pet dogs, is largely a distant memory, with almost a generation of vets who may never have even seen a case. Parvovirus in dogs was an epidemic back in the early 1980s but now thankfully is a relatively rare condition, again thanks to modern vaccines.

For our cat friends the major success has been with feline leukaemia protection, and here again cases have fallen considerably with our pets being protected through vaccine. Cases of cat flu and the often fatal feline enteritis have also been reduced.

A

So after years of advocating and promoting vaccines to protect dogs and cats, there is now a feeling, that with the success in reducing these threats, we could be giving too much vaccine too frequently. There is a school of thought that suggest that over vaccinating is unwise especially against the viral diseases that threaten our pets. I have to say we have not seen any problems with the vaccines themselves causing problems, but we accept that what we want is the least medication for our pets but still full protection against avoidable threats to them.

To add to the complexity of what is best, we still face a significant threat from Leptospirosis to our dogs, a disease carried by rats and found in puddles, ditches and dykes, which can be fatal. This condition does need annual vaccine protection as the immunity is shorter lasting and the danger is real. There is even a move to protect against new exotic strains of this condition, but thankfully these are

currently rare in the UK. Cats also benefit from an annual flu jab, just like us, and of course protection from the danger of transmission of feline leukaemia between cats through normal daily activities cannot be overstated.

But there is an opportunity to keep your pets safe from infectious diseases and still reduce the amount of vaccine they receive, keeping them as safe as possible according to modern trends of thought. We are offering new vaccine regimes that encompass all these benefits. Ask us for more details when booking your next vaccine appointment and do what’s best and safest for your friend.

London Road Vets

@LondonRoadVets

www.makeyourpetsmile.co.uk

LONDON ROAD 25 London Road, King’s Lynn telephone: 01553 773168 e-mail: info@lrvc.co.uk HOLLIES Paradise Road, Downham Market telephone: 01366 386655 e-mail: info@holliesvetclinic.co.uk

KLmagazine February 2016

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Feathers, fins, and a very natural success story...

Starting with four boxes of dried insects from China, Brian and Debbie Mott have built one of the most respected pet food companies in the country – thanks to a commitment to nature

L

ike many great ideas Natures Grub had humble beginnings, growing from the combination of an interesting hobby and a wish to achieve a better work/life balance. Back in 2008, Debbie Mott was working as a chef in a local pub and was finding the long evenings were having an impact on her personal life. Her husband Brian, meanwhile, was dividing his time between a career as a supermarket’s area manager with a long-held love of keeping koi and turtles.

“I’d studied pet nutrition and was always very keen to feed my animals on the most natural products I could

78

find,” says Brian. “When sourcing foods of the right quality became rather expensive, I started looking further afield and eventually found a supplier in China.”

The couple saw an ideal opportunity – they’d import the raw ingredients, produce food for their own animals, and sell the surplus online.

Natures Grub was born – but Brian’s the first to admit it wasn’t the easiest of births.

“We had a small shipment of silkworm pupae, river shrimp and mealworms on their way,” he says, ”but we hadn’t considered the regulations surrounding the import of animal by-

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products from the other side of the world!”

Brian and Debbie quickly familiarised themselves with the complexities of border inspections, customs procedures and the myriad requirements of the Department for the Environment, Food & Rural Affairs.

“The insects could only be received

by DEFRA-approved premises,” Debbie remembers, “which in those early days meant the utility room in our house!

They came and inspected everything from the tiling to the floor drains, but happily we managed to get everything signed off before the first shipment arrived!”

It was a remarkably steep learning curve, but Brian and Debbie were soon selling their own carefully-sourced and prepared foods online. It was an instant success, and the couple were even approached by a local business asking if the foods could be packaged and sold under the store’s own label.

“Even at that early stage I think we realised Natures Grub brand had a future,” says Debbie. “Even though at KLmagazine February 2016

the time I was still carrying the parcels down to the local post office myself!”

It was a future that was to take the couple by surprise, however.

As Debbie committed herself to the business full-time, the couple moved Nature’s Grub to a unit at Docking Rural Workshops – which grew to take over three units within six months.

By the time Brian took redundancy and devoted himself to Natures Grub, the couple had to obtain a shipping container to house all the stock.

They also started diversifying, formulating new ranges of foods, creating ‘treat’ foods for fish, turtles and terrapins, developing natural poultry foods, and introducing the Natures Grub brand to an increasing number of local stores.

“I think we were in exactly the right place at the right time,” says Debbie.

“We started Natures Grub just as people started becoming concerned about the ingredients in pet foods and began looking for natural alternatives, so in many ways we became the obvious choice for them.”

Having outgrown its home at Docking, Natures Grub moved to Tattersett Business Park, which was built on the former site of RAF Sculthorpe.

“Those were interesting times,” says Brian. “We were in the old recreation part of the base – the former squash court was our main warehouse, and two old saunas were now our packaging rooms!”

The premises proved slightly impractical for Natures Grub, however, and for the last few years have been based in more purpose-built facilities at the East Coast Business Park in Kings Lynn. But as you may have gathered, Natures Grub has never been a company to stand still – and will be moving to new (and three times bigger) premises in Fakenham next month.

“We had a visit from a famous and multi-million pound pet food company,” Brian explains, “and they were so impressed with our products and our philosophy that they wanted to buy part of the business. It seemed an ideal opportunity for us to grow and 79

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develop Natures Grub and concentrate on what we do best.”

From that first shipment of dried insects, Natures Grub has grown enormously. The business now has one of the largest ranges of dried insects and crustaceans in the whole country, imports around six 20ft containers every year, and Natures Grub is sold around the UK, with distributors in Finland, Portugal and France taking Brian and Debbie’s products to a worldwide audience. It’s also just launched 10 new products for one of the world’s biggest reptile companies.

“If we do have a secret it’s that we’ve never tried to hide anything,” says Brian. “None of our products are overly processed and everything we produce is made entirely from scratch from natural ingredients we very carefully source ourselves.”

Those ingredients run from ants and beetles to earthworms and house flies, and even include bee pollen and dried honey – essential for the diet of Australian marsupials.

Brian and Debbie are now taking their

commitment to nature in a slightly different direction with Feathers and Fins, which opened – somewhat fortuitously – last August.

“I’d been supplying Norfolk Aquatics with our foods for some time,” says Brian, “and I called in just as the owner was closing. I was amazed that he wasn’t just closing for the day – he was retiring and had been unsuccessful in finding a buyer for the business!”

Seeing it initially as a chance to home his ever-growing collection of turtles, Brian soon realised the facilities offered Natures Grub an ideal retail outlet – selling foods for wild birds, poultry and fish plus a selection of pond filtration systems and pumps.

But there’s a lot more to Feathers and Fins than natural animal foods, however. In addition to selling live animals such as chickens, ducks, koi and pond fish, Feathers and Fins is also home to some fascinating resident animals – including a family of snapping turtles, and 4½ foot long Bosc Monitor lizard called Fluffy and a rescued Japanese squirrel.

It’s been a remarkable success story, and one of the most amazing things is that Brian and Debbie have never lost sight of the philosophy that started it all.

“Although it may be tempting for a small business to sacrifice principles for profit, that’s something that’s never interested us,” says Brian. “We’ve always been dedicated to natural ingredients and real nutritional benefits and we’ve never considered compromising that. It’s been a case of sticking to it and being proud of it – added to which, of course, is that we’re very good at what we do!”

information

Nature’s Grub Units 31-32, East Coast Business Park, Clenchwarton Road, King’s Lynn PE34 3LW Tel: 01485 517177 Web: www.naturesgrub.co.uk E-mail: sales@naturesgrub.co.uk

Feathers and Fins 121a Main Road, Clenchwarton, King’s Lynn Norfolk PE34 4BG Tel: 01553 780263 Web: www.feathersandfins.net E-mail: feathersandfinsuk@gmail.com

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TOP TIP!

BBQ Pulled Pork With spiced sweet potato wedges and red cabbage slaw BBQ Pulled Pork 2 onions sliced, 3 bay leaves, 1 tbsp mustard & smoked paprika, 1 ½-2 kg/3 lb 5 ozs-4 lb8 ozs pork shoulder boned with rind attached and tied (ask your butcher to do this for you), 140g tomato ketchup, 4 tbsp red wine vinegar, 1 tbsp worcestershire sauce, 3 tbsp soft dark brown sugar and brioche rolls to serve.

1 Heat oven to 160°c/140°c fan/gas 3. Scatter the onions and bay leaves in the bottom of a large roasting tin then mix the mustard powder paprika and 1 tsp ground black pepper with a good pinch of salt. Rub this all over the pork making sure you rub it in the crevices. Place the pork rind side up, on top of the onions. Then pour 200 ml water into the bottom of the tin, wrap well with foil and bake for 4 hours.

2 In a bowl mix the ketchup, Worcestershire sauce and brown sugar. Remove the pork from the tin and pat dry. Place the roasting tin on the hob, pour in the ketchup mixture and bubble vigorously for 10-15 mins until thick and glossy. Remove the bay leaves and pour the sauce into a food processor, blitz until smooth then smear half the sauce mixture over the meat.

3 Finish the pork either on the bbq or oven-grill on high setting cook for 10-15 mins until nicely charred.

For variations on the slaw try using shredded apple, fennel or celeriac, and for a lighter dressing use plain yoghurt or red wine vinegar.

Spiced Sweet Potato Wedges 1 tsp ground coriander, 1 tsp smoked paprika, ½ tsp cayenne pepper ½ tsp dried oregano, 1 kg sweet potatoes, olive oil to drizzle sea salt and freshly ground black pepper.

1 Preheat oven 200°c/gas 6 2 Cut the sweet potatoes lengthways into wedges about 2.5 cm. Place them into a roasting tin, drizzle with oil and sprinkle with the spices.

3 Roast the wedges for 10 minutes then turn them over and cook for a further 10-15 minutes until they are tender and cooked.

Red Cabbage Slaw ½ red cabbage, 1 red onion, 1 carrot and 2-3 tbsp mayonnaise.

1 Shred the cabbage and wash, then pat dry Thinly slice the onion and carrot 2 Place into a bowl and add the mayonnaise to combine.

4 Lift the pork onto a large plate or tray and remove string and peel off the skin. Using two forks, shred the meat into pieces. Add 3-4 tbsp of the bbq sauce to the meat and toss until well covered.

Recipe by Van Pelt Butchers 5 Serve piled into the brioche rolls or bread/rolls of choice (ciabatta or French stick works well), and serve with slaw and sweet potato wedges.

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108 Norfolk St, King's Lynn PE30 1AQ Tel: 01553 773536

KLmagazine February 2016

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Try our free -range pork sourced from South Creake!

VAN PELTS PORK BUTCHERS - EST 1935 -

A Taste of tradition • Reputable butchers providing quality locally sourced meat for over 80 years.

• Experienced staff offering excellent advice on cuts of meat and how to cook

• Selling homemade pastries such as Cornish pasties, pork pies and sausage rolls • Fantastic variety of local cheeses

Having a party?

Whether it’s big or small, we can provide catering for 50-500 people. From hot pork rolls to bangers and ma sh!

Call us today for more info.

Find us: 108 Norfolk St, King's Lynn PE30 1AQ | Tel: 01553 773536 | Email: anthony.barton@ymail.com

A TRADITIONAL PUB WITH TRADITIONAL FOOD

The Angel

• Outside catering for weddings, business functions, etc • Function room • Children’s play area • Food served daily (excluding Monday lunch)

TH E AN GE L CA RV ER Y

GREAT DEALS ON OUR FOOD CURRY NIGHT Thursday nights only £8.50 & includes a drink PIE NIGHT Monday nights only £7.50 & includes a drink

STEAK NIGHT Mondays, Tuesdays & Wednesdays LUNCHTIME SPECIAL On Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays. Soup, sandwich or a wrap only £6 and includes a drink

Choice of four meats* and a vast choice of vegetables and accompaniments - for just £10 Available Th ur sd ay 12n oo n - 2p m and Su n d a y 1 2 n oo n - 3 p m . B oo k i n g i s a d v i s e d .

SENIOR CITIZEN CARVERIES Available on Thursday, just £9! * Subject to availability

Find us on Facebook!

01553 811326 | www.theangelpub.webs.com | 41 School Road, Watlington, King’s Lynn, PE33 0HA KLmagazine February 2016

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Food & Drink

RestaurantReview

A KL magazine reader discovers a truly outstanding dining experience at the Berney Arms at Barton Bendish...

I

f you’re a food lover with a sweet tooth and enjoy nothing more than an exquisite dessert to round off your meal, then the Berney Arms is a must visit! Situated in the quiet village of Barton Bendish (between Swaffham and Downham Market) this picturesque restaurant, pub and luxury accommodation is fast becoming an absolute destination in Norfolk.

Steeped in history and nestled in scenic gardens, it feels a real ‘getaway’ escape, perfect for a relaxing dinner with a partner, family or friends.

Every Saturday evening, the Berney Arms hosts a special a la carte menu prepared by Head Chef Liam Sandish, who has an impressive CV having worked previously at the Orange Tree, the Hoste Arms and Caley Hall. Liam has created his own menu and style, offering a mixture of classics cooked perfectly and more exciting options with his own twist.

For starters, I choose the mushroom soup with truffle oil – a tough choice over the Feta-stuffed pepper dews, mushroom bruschetta, poached hen’s egg, toasted pine nuts and truffle oil!

My dining partner chose ‘A Taste of the Ocean’ which included Brancaster mussels, salmon gradvalax, spicy baby

84

octopus, caperberries, anchovies, sunblushed tomatoes, pickled cucumber and avocado. It sounds a lot for a starter, and it’s a real taste explosion of flavours, but they all complement each other in a portion size that leaves you satisfied but still excited for the next course.

For mains I had a Gamekeeper’s Tasting Plate, which included miniature portions of a pheasant and truffle cottage pie, a venison burger, pigeon breast on sweetcorn puree with baby vegetables, vegetable crisps and a red

wine jus.

It was sensational! I’m someone who usually struggles with making a choice from a menu, so to be treated to so many different dishes in one made it a genuine dining experience. Every bit of the meat was cooked to perfection, my favourite being the juicy pink pigeon breast that melted in your mouth. The vegetables were equally perfect, crunchy enough to taste the freshness without being raw. I am incredibly fussy when it comes to vegetables too, but I simply couldn’t fault this dish.

My dining partner chose a vegetarian option – white truffle, wild mushroom, pecorino and shallot stuffed beef tomato. Accompanied by a smoked Norfolk Poacher and chive mash, basil pesto, red pepper relish and toasted pine nuts, it was a revelation to see such innovative vegetarian options on the menu and it was delicious.

Admittedly, after finishing the mains we were very full but couldn’t resist trying the desserts. I do have a sweet tooth but often find the quality of

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restaurant desserts can let a meal down, and the choice is often very samey. However, the desserts menu featured the same complexity as the other dishes and we decided to order two and share them. Together with a caramelised orange and passion fruit tart with bubblegum ice cream, griotte

cherries, coulis, chocolate gnache and baby mint we ordered the vanilla crème brulee, which was served with pistachio shortbread, coconut ice, mini marshmallows and Belgian chocolate ice cream.

I can’t begin to explain how delicious they were – excellently prepared and cooked, with all the exciting extras taking them to another level.

Saturday evenings at the Berney Arms are reserved exclusively for the fine dining menus, so for those who enjoy more traditional meals cooked exceptionally well, a visit during the week would probably suit better.

The standard menu includes great pub classics like steaks, chicken and mushroom pie, gammon and burgers, with fine dining options showcased only on the specials board. There really is something for everyone to enjoy.

I also noted that launching soon is Steak Night on Fridays – with up to 16oz steaks. I’ll certainly be returning for that.

Providing the perfect finishing touch was our bill, which came to only £63!

Admittedly we didn’t have any alcoholic drinks, but I do feel that two three-

Sorr y we’re closed we’ll be back soon!

3lbs 5lbs 3lbs 3lbs 3lbs

course meals of that standard represented quite outstanding value and rounded off the enjoyment of the meal almost as well as the desserts!

When it came to scoring our meals, I had no hesitation (given the soup and the game dish) awarding the Berney Arms 10/10, while my dining partner (who’d chosen the vegetarian option) preferred 9/10. The result? We compromised on a highlycommendable 9.5/10!

FOOD

9.5

SERVICE

10

VALUE

10

THE BERNEY ARMS Church Road, Barton Bendish, Norfolk PE33 9GF T: 01366 347995 W: www.theberneyarms.co.uk

LAMB CHOPS PORK STEAK BRAISING STEAK DICED BEEF MINCED STEAK

£10 £10 £10 £10 £6

CALL TO

ORDER

01366

388377

Due to the recent fire at our shop premises we are currently closed. We hope to be up and running very soon however.

If you’d like to contact us for any more information please feel free to call us on

01553 772241

DONALDSONS A fresh taste of the sea

Austin Fields, King’s Lynn, Norfolk PE30 1PH

KLmagazine February 2016

Visit our website to or order der other items online www www.goddardsofnorfolk.co.uk .goddardsofnorfolk.co.uk 4 Wales Wales Court, Downham Market Market PE38 9JZ

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Sausage Casserole Serves: 4 INGREDIENTS 8 Pork Sausages 4 cooking chorizo sausages 100g streaky bacon, finely chopped 175g chopped onions 2 cloves of garlic, finely chopped 1 stick of celery, chopped 1 carrot, peeled and chopped 400g chopped tomatoes 1 tbsp tomato puree 2 bay leaves 1 sprig of thyme 2 tsp paprika 200ml good quality chicken stock 200ml red wine 400g butter beans 1 handful of chopped fresh parsley Salt and pepper 86

METHOD 1 Heat a little oil in a large non-stick frying pan.

On a medium heat fry the sausages for about 8 minutes, giving them a little shake occasionally until they are browned all over. Transfer to your casserole dish and do the same with the chorizo sausage.

4 Stir in the chopped tomatoes, puree, stock and wine and bring to a simmer.

5 Pour over the sausages, return the casserole dish to the heat, cover with a lid and simmer on a low heat for 20 minutes.

2 In the same frying pan, fry the bacon, onion, garlic, celery and carrot. Sweat off for 8-10 minutes.

6 Drain the butter beans and add to the casserole. Cook for a further 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens.

3 Add the paprika, bay leaves and thyme and cook for a further 2 minutes stirring frequently.

7 Sprinkle over the parsley and season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.

Recipe by Bowers Butchers 71 Lynn Road, Gaywood, King's Lynn PE30 4PR Tel: 01553 773845 Web: www.bowersbutchers.com KLmagazine February 2016

86_Bowers_Layout 1 22/01/2016 16:52 Page 3

ABOVE: England rugby legend Phil Vickery presents James Middleton of Bowers Butchers with another award for the local butchers’ famous sausages.

The best sausages in Norfolk – it’s official!

Made to a family recipe that’s been kept secret for over 80 years, Bowers Traditional Norfolk Sausage deserves to be celebrated... ast November, the 18th annual British Sausage Week put the nation’s best bangers in the spotlight, celebrating one of our favourite and most traditional foods and encouraging customers to visit some of the most talented local butchers in the country.

It was a memorable occasion for Bowers Butchers in Gaywood, as the family-run business picked up two prestigious awards – a Gold for their famous Traditional Norfolk Sausage and a Silver for their recently introduced Wherry Sausage.

For James Middleton, whose grandfather founded the business back in 1932, the awards reflect a quality locally-produced product that deserves to be treasured.

“We’ve always been very passionate about our sausages and we’re very proud of them,” he says. “My grandfather first

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KLmagazine February 2016

came up with the original recipe for the Bowers Traditional Norfolk Sausage in the 1930s and it’s been a closely-guarded secret ever since.”

With increasing concerns about salt in our diet and processed foods, sausages come in for more than their fair share of bad press, but James is keen to point out that much of it is undeserved.

“There’s no reason why you can’t enjoy a satisfying and nutritious meal with sausages,” he says. “It’s just a case of buying the right ones.

We use high quality meat from Jimmy Butler’s award-winning Blythburgh Free Range Pork, we make our sausages using traditional skills, and we’re always thinking of new ideas – we even make two varieties of gluten-free sausages now!”

That commitment to high quality and animal welfare doesn’t just apply to Bowers Butchers’ range of 14 different

sausages, however. The very same ethos applies to products such as pork pies, sausage rolls and pâté – and the sourcing of the finest joints of beef and lamb.

As James and his team celebrate another award-winning chapter in the story of Bowers Butchers, there’s never been a better time to discover one of Norfolk’s best tastes.

“I think the awards we’ve won underline the fact that sausages are more than just a cheap meal,” he says. “They should be seen in the same context as Stilton cheese or Cornish pasties – as a high quality, highly valued local product that we should all be proud of.”

Of course, best of all is the fact that they taste fantastic!

information

Bowers Butchers 71 Lynn Road, Gaywood, King’s Lynn Norfolk PE30 4PR Telephone: 01553 773845 Website: www.bowersbutchers.com E-mail: info@bowersbutchers.com

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Steamed ginger and honey pudding Makes: 10 individual puddings INGREDIENTS 300g butter 600g self-raising flour 4 tsps ground ginger 10 tsps of runny honey 450g dark soft brown sugar 6 eggs A little milk Vanilla custard 500ml full fat milk 1 tsp Vanilla paste 3 egg yolks 3 tbls of caster sugar ½ tspn of cornflour Blackcurrant compote 1 punnet of blackcurrants 100g caster sugar 50ml water

METHOD 1 Grease 10 individual plastic pudding moulds and lids with butter and place a teaspoon of honey in the bottom of each mould.

5 Whisk the egg yolks with the caster sugar and cornflour until thoroughly mixed.

6 Slowly add the hot milk to the egg mixture whilst whisking then pour back into the pan.

2 Sift the dry ingredients together.

3 Cream the butter and sugar together until pale and fluffy then add the eggs one at a time Add the dry ingredients and mix until smooth.

The mix should be of dropping consistency so add a little milk if necessary. Divide equally between the pudding basins, fill to ž to allow space to rise.

Steam for 25-30 minutes.

4 For the custard, Place the milk into a pan with the vanilla and bring to the boil then take off the heat.

7 Place the custard back on the heat and gently cook out on a low heat until it has thickened slightly. It should coat the back of a wooden spoon. Serve with the puddings.

8 For the compote, place the blackcurrants, caster sugar and water into a pan and gently bring to the boil until the sugar has dissolved and the blackcurrants are soft. Allow to cool, then serve on top of the puddings.

Recipe by Jules Hetherton, Head Chef, Strattons Ash Close, Swaffham PE37 7NH Tel: 01760 725605 Web: www.strattonshotel.co.uk

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The

Coach & Horses Dersingham BOOK NOW For our Valentines special evening!

Saturday 13th February MEA M E A LS SER SERVED VED EV EVERYDAY ERY DAY

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KLmagazine February 2016

www.thecoachpub.com | 01485 540391 77 Manor Road, Dersingham, King’s Lynn PE31 6LN

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strattons hotel with self catering, restaurant and café deli

boutique luxurious classic contemporary heart of norfolk award winning restaurant afternoon tea cocoes café deli self catering Luxury without sacrifice to the environment ash close swaffham norfolk pe37 7nh 01760 723845 enquiries@strattonshotel.com www.strattonshotel.com

Family run restaurant in the heart of King’s Lynn, serving exceptional locally sourced food in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.

As featured in the prestigious ‘Michelin guide’ and ‘Waitrose Good Food guide’

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Delicious in homemade thas zZ Pi t us cr ily

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Like us on Facebook to keep up to date with events

To book a table or a room please calL 01760 755398 • www.ostrichcastleacre.com Stocks Green, Castle Acre, King’s Lynn PE32 2AE

KLmagazine February 2016

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BEFORE...

...AFTER

Floors fit for the Spring – thanks to Xtraclean!

The professional way to keep your stone floors looking great...

A

s winter finally draws to a close, you’ll probably find your floors have taken more than their usual share of punishment over the last few months – leaving your beautiful slate, limestone and natural stone floors looking as bleak as the wintry weather outside. Eventually, it will take more than a mop to bring your floors back to life and you’ll need the professional services of Swaffham-based Xtraclean.

“As deposits gradually build up on your floors over the winter, traditional cleaning methods and chemicals will become increasingly ineffective,” says Xtraclean’s Martin King. “Thanks to our revolutionary floor cleaning system, we can restore heavily-soiled stone floors, tiles and grout to ‘as-new’ brilliance – and we KLmagazine February 2016

can do it in a single visit too!”

For over 20 years, Xtraclean has been offering a professional, friendly and fully-insured service that covers the whole county with a team of highly skilled, highly trained and highly knowledgeable technicians dedicated to keeping your floors looking their very best.

Following an initial survey and testing of your floors, Martin and his team will get to work (they’ll even move the furniture for you!) by breaking down ingrained dirt and loosening surface soiling. Xtraclean’s amazing turbo-cleaning capture system then thoroughly pressure cleans the floor – capturing all waste in the process. The results are spectacular, and are achieved without invasive procedures such as grinding and resurfacing.

“Once the floor has been cleaned we professionally seal it for added protection and to help retain its good

looks for longer,” says Martin. ”We can even re-polish and buff highly-honed stone floors if required!”

Martin and his team also have a wealth of experience in cleaning everything from outdoor terraces to paths and patios, meaning all your floors – indoors and out – can have a bright and fresh new look.

“We use the most advanced technology and the most professional products on the market today,” says Martin, “and the results really do speak for themselves.”

For an extra professional and extra reliable service, contact Martin and his locally-based team today and get your floors in beautiful condition for Spring.

information

Xtraclean Unit 3, Jack Boddy Way, Swaffham PE37 7HJ Tel: 01760 337762 Web: www.xtraclean.co.uk E-mail: sales@xtraclean.co.uk

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FROM THE COLLECTION OF THE BOROUGH COUNCIL OF KING'S LYNN AND WEST NORFOLK

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History

ABOVE: This eight-foot statue of George Vancouver in front of the City Hall in Vancouver was carved by Charles Marega and unveiled on August 20th 1936 by the Lord Mayor of London, Sir Percy Vincent

George Vancouver and a world of placenames...

Scattering no less than 388 names on the world’s maps, King’s Lynn’s Captain George Vancouver is the foremost place-namer from the Age of Discovery, as Alison Gifford explains

F

our of the greatest maritime expeditions of all time were crammed into two decades late in the 18th century, and one of these was the ‘Voyage of Discovery’ by George Vancouver, one of King’s Lynn’s most famous sons.

Born in the town’s New Conduit Street in June 1757, George was the youngest of six children. His mother was Bridget Berners of Wiggenhall St Mary’s hall, a grand family fallen on hard times but his father, John Jasper Vancouver, arrived in Lynn in the early 1700s without a trace of his background. John’s job as Deputy Customer at the Custom House (plus other perks that found their way into his pocket) gave the family a reasonably KLmagazine February 2016

comfortable living.

Perhaps through the elder Vancouver’s connection with the celebrated musician Dr Charles Burney (a man who knew “everyone who was anyone”) young George sailed twice round the world with Captain James Cook as a midshipman. This was exceptional training which later equipped him for his own great expedition, which lasted five years from 1791–1795. While Cook sketched the coast of northwest America in a magnificent reconnaissance, Vancouver, by contrast, surveyed the enormous extent of the coast from California to the Arctic in exacting detail – establishing Great Britain as the pre-eminent European power in this

part of modern Canada and preventing the Spanish, French and Russians from exploiting the rich fur and fishing trades and trade routes.

He was also tasked with recovering the Island of Nootka (now Vancouver Island) from the Spanish through diplomatic negotiations with Bodega y Quadra, a Spanish grandee who also became an unlikely ally and a firm friend of Vancouver’s.

To make a useable chart of an unknown land or coast, European explorers named notable or prominent places. Many of Vancouver’s names reflect people and places of West Norfolk – and an astonishing proportion of the placenames bestowed during Vancouver’s voyage 93

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History

ABOVE: A monument to George Vancouver on Hawaii where his crew wintered during the five year voyage. The inscription claims he granted the Hawaiian people the right to use the Union Jack as part of the Hawaiian flag.

have survived in original or modified form.

His naming system had three elements: honorary (people and places) such as Point Mary and Point Sarah after his sisters, Berner’s Bay, Lynn Canal, and Holkham Bay; descriptive such as Desolation Sound, Foggy Point, Salmon Cove; and celebratory such as St George’s Channel – which was sighted on St Georges Day and was neatly followed by Dragon Channel.

George Vancouver’s place-naming schemes are a delight to study. For example, the set leading to Observatory Inlet are a sequence of famous astronomers: Wales Point, after William Wales, the astronomer who taught Vancouver on Cook’s second voyage; Maskelyne Island, named for Nevil Maskelyne, Astronomer Royal; and finally Ramsden Point, named after James Ramsden, who made astronomical instruments.

Another rather sad sequence describes the poisoning by mussels of crew-member John Carter; Mussel Inlet, Poison Cove and Carter Bay where John Carter died.

Notable among the names is Nelson Point, which was thus named in August 1793. It was almost certainly the first time a place was named after the great Admiral, especially as he was little known to the wider world at the time, being on half pay and living at Burnham Thorpe with his rector father and unhappy wife.

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Following on are juxtaposed Wells Point and Point Boyles, named after a Wells’ man called Charles Boyles.

This section of a letter written in 1785

by Horatio Nelson to his brother William is of interest: “Remember me kindly to Charles Boyles. The Wells Club must be strong this winter. Noisy, I’ll answer with you and him.”

The Wells Club was a gentlemen’s drinking club and evidently familiar to Vancouver.

Place names commemorating Vancouver himself have played a significant part in making him and his achievements better known.

It might be unkindly thought that Vancouver was far from modest in naming places after himself, but in

none of the cases was he the namer.

Vancouver Island was originally Fuca and was re-named renamed at the suggestion of Bodega y Quadra ‘Quadra and Vancouver Island’ – however, the influence of the Spanish on this coast waned and the Quadra part was dropped.

The City of Vancouver was originally called Granville, but a combination of the wooden town burning down and the termination of the transcontinental railway at this point gave the general manager of the Canadian Pacific Railway an opportunity to rename the settlement – and he chose Vancouver.

But the most significant Vancouver name was Fort Vancouver. In 1825, when the Hudson Bay Company established a new trading post on the Columbia River, it was named Fort Vancouver “after that distinguished navigator to identify our claim to the Soil and Trade with his discovery of the Columbia River and the coast on behalf of Great Britain.”

Because of this, the British could later dispute American expansionism north – and a compromise was reached with the border being set at 49° with a southern bend to exclude Vancouver Island from the United States.

George Vancouver died aged only 40 in 1798 and is buried near Richmond. A glance at his Great Chart, scattered with the place names particular to his life and interests, and upon which the tortuous course along the North West coast of America is marked, arouses great admiration for the man under whose leadership it was prepared and whose enduring legacy it is.

Captain George Vancouver of Lynn by Alison Gifford (£5.99) is a True’s Yard Publication and is available from the museum and the Custom House. All proceeds to True’s Yard.

KLmagazine February 2016

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GEORGINA R. WILKINSON WEALTH MANAGEMENT CONSULTANT

Weea t a age e t expe e t se that hits the right note I provide an experienced wealth management service • Investment planning • Retirement planning • Inheritance Tax planning For further details contact Georgina Wilkinson on:

Tel: 01553 774500 Email: georgina.wilkinson@sjpp.co.uk Website: www.sjpp.co.uk/jeremyallen Address: 4 King Street, King’s Lynn, Norfolk PE30 1ES

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It’s your family home: it’s not the taxman’s!

Claire Melton FCCA TEP of Stephenson Smart explains how the rules on Inheritance Tax are changing – and what it means for you... n the 2015 election campaign, believing the home you’ve worked for should belong to you and your family (rather than the taxman), George Osborne promised the government would be taking family homes out of inheritance tax, effectively increasing the threshold to £1 million, so that only millionaires would pay inheritance tax.

That vision looks set to be realised from 6th April next year, with the introduction of a new main residence nil rate tax band, applying to properties passed on death to direct descendants.

To benefit from the new nil rate band you’ll need to be an individual with direct descendants and have an estate (including a main residence) valued in excess of £325,000 – or £650,000 as a couple.

Rising in increments of £25,000 for

I

OUR BRANCHES

five years, the additional nil rate band will then increase in line with the Consumer Prices Index from 2021/22 onwards – the year couples will first be able to benefit from the promised £1 million nil rate band.

The term ‘direct’ refers to children (including adopted and foster children) and their descendants, and it’s believed it will also include their surviving widows if applicable.

The main residence nil-rate band will be transferable in the same way as the existing nil rate band where the second spouse or civil partner of a couple dies on or after 6th April 2017 irrespective of when the first of the couple died.

An important element of the change is that the additional nil-rate band will be available to people who downsize or cease to own a home.

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KLmagazine February 2016

To achieve this, the home is sold and assets of an equivalent value (up to the value of the additional nil-rate band) are passed on death to direct descendants. It means you’re not compelled to keep the family home in order to qualify for the relief.

For larger estates with a net value exceeding £2 million, there’ll be a tapered withdrawal of the additional nil-rate band – at a rate of £1 for every £2 over the threshold. The importance of this is that it means in some circumstances it will be beneficial to reduce the taxable estate prior to death.

Reducing a person’s taxable estate is straight forward if they wish to give away their assets, this can be done by using the annual exemption, gifts out of income, gifts on marriage, death bed gifts and exempt transfers. It’s more complex when the person in question wishes to (or needs to) retain an income from their asset, although it’s possible through mechanisms such as using trusts. It is possible to convert assets into property relieved from inheritance tax, however these assets would still form part of the estate for the purposes of the withdrawal of the additional nil-rate band.

Stephenson Smart have many years worth of expertise in helping people successfully negotiate the pitfalls and minimise their tax liability.

For more information on how we can help you, and for details of how the new nil rate band is likely to affect your estate, please contact us.

Tax tips...

Any gifts made utilising your annual exemption or gifts out of income could be used by the beneficiary to start or top up a Help-To-Buy ISA. Provided the beneficiary is over 16, is a first-time buyer and the house being purchased doesn’t exceed £250,000 (£450,000 in London) the government will top up the fund with a 25% bonus to a maximum bonus of £3,000. So not only is cash removed from your estate – avoiding a potential tax charge on death of 40% – the ‘donee’ could benefit from a helpful and enhanced deposit for their first home.

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PICTURES: TRUNK ANIMATIONS / RICHARD BARNETT

Local Arts

ABOVE: A scene from the enchanting film produced by Trunk Animations’ Richard Barnett for John Rutter’s ‘Angel’s Carol’ and (opposite) a detail from the video the team produced for Blur’s 2015 single ‘Ong Ong’

Making an impact on the world of animation Making videos of rock stars and seeing your work viewed by millions is the stuff dreams are made of. Sue Burge talks to local lad Richard Barnett about how he made those dreams come true

F

rom an early love of clay animation in the style of Wallace and Gromit to seeing your company’s work projected onto the walls of Buckingham Palace – it’s been a fascinating creative journey for local lad Richard Barnett, who grew up in West Norfolk and is now based in East London, where he’s one of the talented producers at Trunk Animations.

“West Norfolk was such an inspiring place to grow up,” says Richard, who went to school in Clenchwarton and Terrington St Clements as well as Springwood High School in King’s Lynn.

“There’s such a feeling of freedom and space. I had a really good peer group

KLmagazine February 2016

and was surrounded by creative and inspiring people who’ve gone on to do great things. My family didn’t come from an arts background, but they were so supportive and encouraged me in whatever I wanted to do artistically.”

After completing a Foundation in Art at the College of West Anglia, Richard studied fine art and painting at the London Institute of Fine Arts in Camberwell.

“During this time I tried to focus on animation as much as I could,” he says.

“I knew this was what I wanted to do and once I left university I was lucky enough to get a foot in the door at Slinky Pictures in Brick Lane as a runner, which is basically a general dogsbody.”

Everyone has to start somewhere (even Alfred Hitchcock went through a phase of doing a little bit of everything in the London Studios) and Richard was quickly able to get a broad insight into the film-making business.

From there he made valuable contacts and in 2006 joined Trunk Animations. Trunk had only been going for three years, but was already picking up a great deal of business. As one of two producers at the studios, Richard’s been able to co-ordinate some fascinating projects from a range of talented animators.

“Original ideas are key as we’re here to help clients get their message across in new and exciting ways,” he says.

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PICTURES: TRUNK ANIMATIONS / RICHARD BARNETT

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ABOVE: Over a couple of months, Trunk Animations painstakingly brought Mila Fürstová’s beautiful artwork for Coldplay’s Ghost Stories (2014) to life, creating a stunning animation sequence for the entire length of the album.

“Every project is like setting up a new business from the beginning – it’s such an exciting medium to be involved with.”

Trunk have an impressive client list – the BBC, CBBC, Toyota, Coca Cola, Elton John, Blur, Jaguar, Coldplay and New Look to name but a few.

One of Trunk Animations’ most magical sequences to date (it’s currently available to view on their website) is Layla Atkinson’s deceptively simple and very moving animation for Kylie Minogue and James Corden’s cover version of Yazoo’s ‘Only You’.

The company creates music videos, commercials, title sequences, short films – basically, any kind of visual animation going.

One of the key skills is the ability to tell a story compellingly via visuals, and the charming animation to John Rutter’s ‘Angel’s Carol’ demonstrates this beautifully, bringing to life the story of a father struggling to get home in the snow to his family, and needing a little magical help.

“The work can be extremely challenging,” says Richard. “We once had 48 hours to create a piece for Rita Ora and only had six days to produce something for The Rolling Stones!”

A recent high point was Trunk’s beautifully-detailed animated sequence for the title track of former Pink Floyd

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guitarist Dave Gilmour’s latest solo album ‘Rattle that Lock’ – Richard and his team worked with Aubrey Powell, Pink Floyd’s former creative director.

Trunk created a truly stunning narrative sequence reflecting the album’s focus on Milton’s ‘Paradise Lost.’

The team’s hard work was rewarded with a box at the Royal Albert Hall (complete with champagne) to see their animation projected behind Dave Gilmour in performance.

The Queen’s Diamond Jubilee celebrations at Buckingham Palace in 2012 featured a definite career high for everyone at Trunk, who were asked to create the projections for Madness’ ‘Our House’ and ‘It Must Be Love’ that illuminated the walls of the palace.

It’s quite brilliant as, amongst other equally innovative responses to the song, the palace is cleverly transformed into a row of council flats!

Richard clearly loves what he does and really wants to encourage young people to break through into the industry – he’s keen to emphasise you don’t need to have a degree to be a good film-maker.

“We need to inspire young people through culture and help them to get involved,” he says. “If you’re interested in film-making, look at Radar Music Videos online and Promo News for inspiration. Read Creative Review and

Design Week, and immerse yourself in Richard Williams’ ‘Animator’s Survival Kit.’ Go to short film festivals and check out software such as Flash, Adobe After Effects and Cinema 4D.” Trunk Animations have some fantastic projects planned for the future – including a special half-hour musical with award-winning film composer Daniel Pemberton and projects with Bacardi and the Wellcome Trust.

Trunk seem to be on a neverending upward arc – the news is to quite literally watch this space!

For more information on Trunk Animations and to view examples of their work to date, please visit the website at www.trunk.me.uk

KLmagazine February 2016

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mainstream, arthouse & classic films

KID’S PLAY AREA!

The Luxe independent cinema

O pen 10th Febr uary! at 12 no on Fun for all and all for fun!

Our brand new, Dennis the Menace themed, fully manned play area will be the highlight of your kid’s trip to Brewers Fayre.

There’s a totally amazing tree-house play area, new toddlers zone for your little ones, and daily activities Monday to Friday.

Plus a new party room - The Den - to host the most awesome birthday parties!

FEBRUARY SCREEN INGS A LV I N A N D T H E C H I P M O N KS : THE ROADCHIP DAD’S ARMY CREED

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THE BIG SHORT

THE HATEFUL EIGHT YOUTH

Contact us for more details

Clenchwarton Road, West Lynn King’s Lynn PE34 3LW Web: brewersfayre.co.uk

Tel: 01553 772221 KLmagazine February 2016

live events

JONAS KAUFMANN

-AN EVENING WITH PUCCINI NTL

- AS YOU LIKE IT

Films subject to change. View our website for up to date screening information.

To book tickets call: 01945 588808 or go online:

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Your local experts for electrical safety How Swaffham based Zeltech Solutions can help you stay safe and trouble free hether you’re in a domestic, commercial or industrial environment the importance of professional electrical safety testing can’t be overemphasized.

The risks of ignoring regular inspections are obvious. Around 17% of all domestic fires in the UK are caused by electrical faults, and they’re also responsible for over 1,000 electrical accidents at work every year.

Happily, there’s a local and professional way to avoid these problems in the form of Swaffham-based Zeltech Solutions. A

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family-run business with over 25 years’ experience in the electrical industry, Zeltech Solutions has specialised in electrical inspection and testing for more than 15 years.

The fully-qualified and accredited team of test engineers offers a service of the highest professional standards, and have expertise in working on everything from homes and hotels to holiday parks and schools – including farms, factories and churches.

Following an initial survey and free quotation, Zeltech Solutions will perform

ALL TYPES OF ELECTRICAL WORK UNDERTAKEN, INCLUDING: l Fire alarm testing l Thermal Imaging l Portable appliance testing l Electrical Installation Condition Reports l Electrical audits l CAD, design and consultancy l Emergency light testing/maintenance

an exhaustive visual and electronic inspection of your home or work premises at a convenient and nondisruptive time, building a complete picture of your whole electrical system.

That picture will then be detailed in a comprehensive report. Zeltech Solutions’ reports are some of the most extensive and thorough in the marketplace, and they’re also very easy to follow, identifying any problem areas, highlighting defects and prioritising recommended work.

Although the Zeltech Solutions team will go through every part of the report with you, they won’t carry out any of the necessary remedial work – unless it’s immediately required for health and safety reasons. It means you can be assured of a completely impartial assessment and a totally honest approach, with no selfserving ‘recommendations’ that can be both needless and costly.

For an informal talk about professional electrical testing – or any of the company’s other electrical services – contact Zeltech Solutions today or call into their Swaffham offices.

FOR MORE INFORMATION: 14 Station Street, Swaffham, Norfolk PE37 7LH Telephone: 01760 724244 Website: www.zeltechsolutions.com E-mail: enquiries@zeltechsolutions.com

KLmagazine February 2016

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PICTURES: SAM POINTER

Local Art

ABOVE: A detail from the 2008 pastel portrait of General Bibi, a work typically full of character by local artist Sam Pointer (opposite)

The painter with a love of four legs – and wheels!

KL magazine talks to local artist Sam Pointer about her work, which features her twin passions of animals and classic cars in a series of highly detailed and lifelike paintings and drawings...

KL magazine: How did your life as an artist begin?

Sam Pointer: I think it was always in my blood. I’ve always loved art, just like my father and grandfather. I’d often be found sitting in my father’s garage office playing with his ink stamps and colouring on scraps of paper. Coloured pencils and sketchbooks were regular presents for me. Actually, I recently received my grandfather’s art trunk and amongst his oil paints and brushes I found some sketches I did as a small child!

After leaving school at 16, I did a twoyear art and design foundation course at Isle College in Wisbech, followed by a further two years studying ceramics and art at Lowestoft College in Suffolk.

KLmagazine February 2016

Once my children started school I enrolled on a life drawing course at Gresham’s School in Holt – and I went there for 13 years!

I truly believe the basis to all art is learning about the human form through life drawing. It’s helped me gain more knowledge about art and the work I do today with my portraits of animals, life drawings and even – believe it or not! – my car paintings.

KL magazine: How did you originate and develop your unique style?

Sam Pointer: Everything evolves in art, and simply playing with different materials results in you finding your own style. I love detail, but I find my work is now a lot ‘looser’ than it used to

be, especially my acrylic work of pets.

My pastel work has a different approach and tends to be a neater medium – you can’t make mistakes with pastel!

KL magazine: It’s obviously an approach that’s proved successful...

Sam Pointer: It’s been incredible. I was shortlisted at the Royal Academy of Art’s summer exhibition in 2007 and have held a number of exhibitions in Norfolk, including two joint charity exhibitions in the Sainsbury Centre at the UEA. I’ve exhibited regularly at the Royal Norfolk Show, and as a member of the West Norfolk Artists Association I’ve also exhibited a number of times at

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PICTURES: SAM POINTER

Local Art

ABOVE: Sam Pointer’s dual passions for animals and classic cars were combined in a recent work called Cat on a Hot Merc Roof

their famous Summer exhibition in the lovely setting of St. Nicholas’ Chapel.

KL magazine: Where do you get your inspiration?

Sam Pointer: The beautiful animals I paint and the stunning classic cars I’m lucky enough to see. My inspiration comes from light and shade on all surfaces, reflections on chrome, light on fur and the intricate detail you find in all objects.

KL magazine: How does the setting of Norfolk impact on your work?

Sam Pointer: I love Norfolk and I feel so lucky to live here. I can be on the beach within 30 minutes, or can simply stroll out the door and walk in the beautifully peaceful fields. Walking my dog Ethel on the beach is a great way of seeing so many things and meeting other dog walkers. And, of course, all the fresh air helps me to think about the painting or pastel I’m currently working on!

KL magazine: Can you explain the process behind your work?

Sam Pointer: I think the question I’m asked most often is “how long do you take?” and the answer’s simple – as long as a piece of string! I like to meet

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the animals I’m about to paint, not only to take several photographs of them but to gain an idea of their individual character. My pet portraits are generally executed in pastel or acrylic. I prefer to use pastel pencils and harder pastels rather than soft ones as they give me better definition for the fur and skin.

And I use pastel paper, of course – although if I’m using acrylics I like to work on canvas board.

KL magazine: What do you intend your work to do – what kind of response are you hoping to achieve in the people who view your work?

Sam Pointer: It’s simple really – I hope my work enthuses people. I’m always open to criticism as well, as I feel you’re always learning – and other people’s opinions are always valuable.

KL magazine: What are you currently working on – and where do you see your work going in the future?

Sam Pointer: At the moment I’m working on a beautiful Weimaraner in acrylics for a client. It’s interesting as it’s a breed of dog I’ve not painted before.

For the future, I see myself happily continuing to work in my studio on new projects. I wouldn’t want to

change a thing!

KL magazine: Where can we get a closer look at your work?

Sam Pointer: Some examples of my work can be seen on my website at www.sampointer.co.uk and you can contact me through that if you’d like me to paint your pet. I also have some items of artwork for sale in my studio.

KL magazine: Who’s your favourite artist and/or painting ?

Sam Pointer: The local artist Sir Alfred Munnings (1878-1959) is one of my favourite artists. There’s a beautiful painting in the galleries of Norwich Castle Museum of a Suffolk Punch mare and foal in the sunlight that I simply love. There’s so much colour, light and life in the painting. I think it epitomises East Anglia.

I should also mention the portraitist John Singer Sargent – his charcoal renditions are stunning! – and Laura Knights, who was an amazing female artist in a world of male artists.

For more information on Sam and her work, and for details of how you can commission your own pet portrait, see www.sam-pointer.co.uk

KLmagazine February 2016

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KLmagazine February 2016

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PICTURES: SAMARITANS / ROSE ATKINSON

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Even at Valentine’s, life isn’t always a bed of roses For many people, Valentine’s Day isn’t a time of happiness and romance – it’s a time when they just need someone to talk to...

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s a celebration of love and romance, there’s nothing quite like Valentine’s Day, and the event now sees us spending some £978 million on cards, flowers, chocolates and meals out for our wives, husbands, partners – and prospective partners.

But for many people, Valentine’s Day isn’t all happiness and light. Feelings of loneliness and loss are likely to be heightened, and those in difficult relationships can find their problems brought into sharp relief. Often, all these people need is someone to talk to.

You can talk to Samaritans at any time on any day of the year, and anyone who calls does so in complete confidence – the calls are never discussed, recorded or shared. What

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follows are not ‘real’ stories from real people, but they do illustrate the very real feelings and pressures felt by many around Valentine’s Day. As you read them, you’ll see how different these problems and issues can be – and you’ll realise that Samaritans are always here to help with any issue affecting you and your life.

IT’S ALWAYS HARD at times like this, you know, when we’re supposed to be happy and in love because the card manufacturers tell us to. I am so in love with my husband, but when he has to go away for such long periods of time serving in the Army, it’s tough.

Sometimes I don’t hear from him for weeks, and the worry and stress is unbearable thinking that something has

happened to him. I try to get on with everyday life, but it’s so hard – especially trying to explain it to the children and keeping a brave face for them. He was in the Army when we married and I knew our life would be far from conventional, but it’s just the feeling of not knowing and making up horrible scenarios in my head.

I can’t turn on the TV and watch the news and I dread the phone ringing with bad news. Days like Valentine’s make me miss him all the more – it makes me ache for a cuddle. Wherever he is right now, I just hope he’s safe and well.

I’VE JUST SEEN the most perfect card for my partner. Not too slushy, but just the right tone. I wish I could give it to

KLmagazine February 2016

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“There are in this world, in every country, people who seem to be ‘ordinary’ but who turn out to be extraordinary. They give their total attention. They completely forget themselves. They listen and listen and listen, without interrupting. They have no message. They do not preach.

They have nothing to sell.

We call them Samaritans...”

Dr Chad Varah, CH CBE Founder, Samaritans

ask for simple manners. Then he said he would like to see me again! I would rather stick pins in my eyes!

ALL HEARTS AND flowers is it? Oh yes, let’s cash in on Valentine’s Day with stupid cards and poems and empty gestures. Last year I had a lovely Valentine’s card with a bunch of roses and breakfast in bed. Little did I know it was because he was carrying on with that cow he works with – right under my nose! Poor, unsuspecting me.

I wonder if he bought the flowers at the same time and got a bulk discount?

KLmagazine February 2016

It had been apparently going on for a while and I was the last one to find out!

What has she got that I haven’t? I’ve seen her and I can’t see the attraction.

When I see all these cards and mushy presents in the shops I want to scream.

It’s all so false. I wonder if he’ll buy her roses again this year? I can’t seem to get past it – it’s like an obsession with me and I’m so angry with him. I just sit and listen to sad songs, making myself feel even worse.

WELL LAST NIGHT was a corker. I’m fed up with messing about with online dating. He looked nothing like his photo and I really don’t care about the exciting world of how something or other in an engine works. I really thought that this could be the one, but to no avail – some of the things he said made me want to cringe inside.

I’ve never wanted an evening to be over so quickly and was wearing a false smile so much it began to hurt. I don’t think I got a word in edgeways. Then he had the nerve to break wind as we were eating the main course!

“Better out than in!” was what he said.

I think I wanted to be sick.

Safer to buy myself a card for Valentine’s this year and send it from the cat. I don’t think it’s too much to

If you’d like to explore the possibility of volunteering with King’s Lynn Samaritans in any capacity, please get in touch by sending an e-mail to volunteering@ kingslynnsamaritans.org.uk

information 26 Queen Street, King’s Lynn PE30 1HT National Line: 116 123 (this is free to call) Tel: 01553 761616 (local call charges apply) Web: www.samaritans.org

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King’s Lynn Samaritans/Charity Number 268748

him in front of my family, but it won’t be possible – because they don’t know that my partner is actually a man and I am gay. It’s not something we talk about as a family, and I think my Dad is of the opinion that it’s a taboo subject, judging by his comments when anybody homosexual is on the TV. My partner makes me so happy, but when we go out for dates we have to go away from our local area. It causes arguments because he says I should just tell my parents. It’s OK for him – his parents live far away and are far more understanding. It would be so much easier if I wasn’t gay, but then why should I live my life in fear of what other people will say? It’s 2016 now, not the dark ages, but it’s just so difficult. I really do fear I might lose him because of this.

These are not real people, but these stories do reflect the very real pressures many people have to deal with at Valentine’s – and throughout the year.

It’s important to remember that it’s perfectly okay to tell us you’re not having a good time, that you are stressed out, scared, alone, or tired. You can talk to Samaritans any time of the day on every single day of the year.

We’re free to call on 116 123 – and in accordance with our policy of strict confidentiality, the number won’t ever appear on your phone bill.

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“Bold acrylic textures and deep transparent glazes reflect and refract light and colour from different angles to enhance the illusion of ‘being there’ and moving through the landscape...”

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KLmagazine February 2016

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PICTURES: KEVIN TURTON

Local Art

ABOVE: The distinctive work of local artist Kevin Turton is achieved through a mix of acrylic and resin and is a style he developed by accident

Kevin’s unique view of the Norfolk landscape The striking work of North Norfolk based artist Kevin Turton is influenced by the wild coast, and shows elements of the wider landscape in a uniquely abstracted and contemporary style

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evin Turton is no stranger to awe-inspiring natural beauty. Before settling in North Norfolk, he was fortunate enough to live in Snowdonia, surrounded by mountains and glaciers and commuting to Telford to work as a graphic designer.

It was during this period that Kevin started having problems with his eyes – and decided to go part-time to cut down both the long commute and the extended hours working on computers.

It was the first of several big changes.

Despite loving his job working with computers and graphic design he also wanted to get back to hands-on

KLmagazine February 2016

experience without the confines of a commercial brief, in order to find a style and use his imagination through painting. He tried many mediums but eventually settled on a combination of acrylic and resin.

He’s the first to admit that his unique style was found by a happy accident when he knocked over a pot of resin whilst creating a textured fibre-glass ground. The spreading pool of resin looked like water – and by experimenting further and tinting it with a transparent acrylic pigment, Kevin found it a perfect way of representing the three main elements found in Snowdonia – rock, water and light.

Kevin’s emerging technique was to be cut short, however, when he developed a detached retina in his right eye and a tear in his left. Happily, his sight was restored following surgery – an experience Kevin used as a wake-up call. He decided to leave his employment completely and move to North Norfolk to embark on a new career as a full-time professional artist.

He also substituted the resin element of his work for acrylic pastes and gels, which gave a similar but softer appearance to his original style.

It was an appropriate move, as the media proved to be more suitable to depict his new environment in North

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Norfolk – a beautiful and everchanging landscape composed of coastline, water and light.

The technique Kevin uses to spectacular effect begins with him ‘painting with textures’ – using different acrylic pastes which are layered over each other to build a sculptural base on which he then works.

Colour is then introduced using many layers of transparent pigment through washes, pours and dry brushing. Kevin also introduces subtle highlights of ‘interference medium’ and metallics which creates dramatic changes in colour and hue when viewed from different angles.

Several types of clear acrylic gel are then added. These are poured, splashed, textured, tinted and often inter-layered with further transparent pigment, interference or metallics which further reflects and refracts light from different angles, simulating the changes of light one would observe when viewing an actual landscape.

Kevin also embeds objects such as stones, wood and metal into some works, and has recently been employing glass in various forms, which further adds to the reflective qualities of his paintings – and proved particularly popular with buyers.

Kevin’s stated aim is to challenge the viewer to put their own interpretation on each painting, making it personal to them whilst also increasing their awareness of the natural beauty around them.

For a closer look at Kevin’s work you can visit his Studio (which is open throughout the year) or a number of local galleries including The Arts Lounge in Swaffham, the Gallery in the Lanes in Norwich, and Riverside Art & Glass in Wroxham.

With such a distinctive and unique style, it’s hardly surprising that private commissions have recently taken up much of Kevin’s time. Over the last year or so, he’s worked on some particularly interesting projects, which varied from large-scale works to complement a new-build property, a triptych that told a story of a client’s favourite Norfolk holiday beach walk, and a six-piece art installation to fill a large wall within an equally large barn conversion.

Kevin admits that his experience in taking and interpreting commercial briefs during his graphic design days came in useful for these.

“Working on commissions created a perfect combination,” he says. “It enabled me to meet lots of new and interesting people, which sometimes pushed me in new directions – but it

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PICTURES: KEVIN TURTON

Local Art

also left me time to work on my own paintings, experimenting and further developing my style and technique.”

Kevin’s also enjoyed considerable success in introducing other artists to a new world of creative possibilities through a series of courses in which he emphasises the difference between acrylic pastes and gels – and how he applies them to achieve his style. The courses are suitable for absolute beginners as well as artists who normally use oils or watercolours and wish to explore a new medium.

“It’s always interesting to meet new people and share different experiences,” says Kevin. “By far the

best part is the pleasure in seeing the students’ sense of achievement when they leave the course with two finished canvasses.”

So what’s next for this remarkable local artist?

“I’m not ready to simply stand still just yet, and will be evolving my style further,” he says. “Acrylics are so versatile that no one knows what might develop – I certainly don’t! – but that’s all part of the joy of painting.”

For further information on Kevin’s work and details of his forthcoming courses, please see his website at www.turton-artist.com.

KLmagazine February 2016

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The Last Word

WildWestNorfolk Michael Middleton’s

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t may have escaped your notice, but a few weeks ago the National Lottery offered a record-breaking jackpot of £66,070,646. It certainly escaped someone’s attention, as the colossal prize was won by two tickets – and one of them is yet to step forward and claim their £33 million (give or take a few thousand).

Sadly, I’m afraid the ticket is lurking nowhere in the vicinity of the Middleton household. Mrs Middleton has placed a strict embargo on any form of gambling ever since I made the mistake of putting £5 on a horse called Michael’s Delight to win the Grand National.

As you can imagine, Mrs Middleton wasn’t particularly delighted (I seem to remember the horse strolled in around the 23rd place) and I would have spent several days in the dog house if we’d had one at the time.

The unclaimed winning ticket is nowhere near King’s Lynn either (it was actually bought somewhere in Worcester), despite the best efforts of a certain friend of mine who had come up with an ingenious way to draw that £66 million (or at least the lion’s share of it) to West Norfolk. At least, he thought it was ingenious.

Instead of relying on family birthdays and significant anniversaries, he’d decided to select his numbers from important dates in the history of King’s Lynn.

Why he didn’t make life easier for himself and say “Lucky Dip, please” is beyond me.

Anyway, his first number was 6, which was taken from the year (1406) when the town’s Guildhall of St. George’s was built, followed swiftly by number 10 –

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as the first cinema to open in King’s Lynn welcomed its Edwardian film fans in 1910. No idea what they watched, but I bet it was in black and white. And silent.

Anyway, next up was 34, chosen on the basis that was the year (1534 to be exact) a grammar school was founded in the town, and the number 37 was taken from the momentous year of 1537 – when King Henry VIII took control of King’s Lynn from the Bishop.

A momentous date indeed, as it was from that point the town was known as ‘King’s’ rather than ‘Bishop’s’ Lynn.

Similar political upheavals influenced my friend’s next number choice of 43– from the year of 1643, when King’s Lynn was captured by a parliamentary army during the English Civil War. As you may have gathered by now, my friend is something of a trainspotter (no offence intended) so it came as no surprise to learn that his final number was a reminder of the year the railway first arrived in King’s Lynn – 1848.

When I first heard of this idea (which ended up taking my friend several hours) I’d made the suggestion of 83, as 1683 was the year the famous Custom House of King’s Lynn was built, only to be told that only six numbers were required – and that you could only go as high as 59.

My friend duly took his carefully-chosen numbers and a £2 coin to his local newsagents and waited for Saturday 9th January with bated breath.

He was, however, to be disappointed as the winning numbers were 26, 27, 46, 47

52, and 58. My friend’s sterling (and imaginative) efforts and his painstaking trawl through a mass of local history books resulted in him winning exactly nothing. He hadn’t managed to pick a single winning number, but was by no means disillusioned – vowing to pick the numbers on his next ticket from important dates in the history of Swaffham.

I actually checked his numbers, and didn’t have the heart to tell him that his book on local railways was inaccurate – they actually arrived in King’s Lynn in 1847. Had he consulted a more reliable source, he’d at least have had the dubious pleasure of getting one number right.

Of course, the odds of winning the Lottery are staggeringly high, no matter how ingenious your number selection.

I didn’t have the heart to tell my friend that he genuinely stood more chance of dating a supermodel, winning an Oscar, picking up an Olympic gold medal and being hit by a falling airplane part.

Though not all at the same time.

KLmagazine February 2016

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