ISSN 2044–7965
NEW!
ISSUE 9 JUNE 2011 FREE
magazine
LOCAL LIFE
OUT AND ABOUT IN WELLS! LOCAL HISTORY
The life and work of Thomas Baines LOCAL PEOPLE
Profile of local artist Shirley Carnt! LIFESTYLE
FOOD
TIME TO DISCOVER CASTLE RISING LOCAL EVENTS:
Getting ready for Festival Too! HISTORY
EVENTS
LOCAL LIFE
editorial 01553 601201
editor@klmagazine.co.uk Eric Secker Charlotte Thorneycroft Ann Weaver Alex Dallas Christine Glass David Learner Karen Reeves Michael Middleton Richard Parr Ian Ward Graham Murray
advertising 01553 601201 sales@klmagazine.co.uk Grant Murray Laura Dunn Becky Drew KL magazine cannot accept responsibility for unsolicited submissions, manuscripts and photographs. While every care is taken, prices and details are subject to change and KL magazine takes no responsibility for omissions or errors. We reserve the right to publish and edit any letters. All rights reserved. If you’d like to order prints of any photograph featured in KL magazine, contact us at the address below. Please note this applies only to images taken by our own photographers.
Welcome! W
e thought the above picture was an entirely appropriate way of starting this month’s magazine – so many thanks to KL magazine reader Terry Waterton for sending it in. Not only does it capture the fantastic weather we’ve been enjoying over the past few weeks, but it was taken just outside King’s Lynn at Eau Brink – the location of two features inside this month’s issue. First you can read about Derek Bowdery’s amazing collection at the Eau Brink Cacti Nursery on page 24, and then discover the major changes happening at the West Norfolk branch of the RSPCA, whose rehoming centre is also based there (page 61). Of course, now’s the time we start getting excited about the King’s Lynn Festival and Festival Too – and you’ll find plenty to whet your appetite for both on the following pages. All that and we haven’t mentioned Castle Rising, an interview with Freebridge Chairman Ray Johnson, a look at the work of True’s Yard Museum, a trip to Wells, a profile of Shirley Carnt and the chance to win a luxury break at Briarfields – better get reading now! Enjoy the magazine! THE KL TEAM
Contact us at KL magazine, 18 Tuesday Market Place, King’s Lynn, Norfolk PE30 1JW TEL: 01553 601201 E-MAIL: features@klmagazine.co.uk KLmagazine June 2011
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Kings Lynn Audi
Edward Benefer Way Kings Lynn Norfolk PE30 2ND 01553 779500 www.kings-lynn.audi.co.uk Official fuel consumption figures for the A1 range in mpg (l/100km) from: Urban 41.5 (6.8) – 60.1 (4.7), Extra Urban 61.4 (4.6) – 78.5 (3.6), Combined 53.3 (5.3) – 70.6 (4.0). CO2 emissions: 105 – 124g/km. For specification details visit www.audi.co.uk/A1
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KLmagazine June 2011
Contents
June 2011
local life 7-9
WHAT’S ON Forthcoming events in West Norfolk
12
LOCAL LANDMARKS The life and times of Castle Rising
22
FESTIVAL TOO King’s Lynn gets ready for the big event
24
A MAN AND HIS CACTI We meet local expert Derek Bowdery
34-41 FOOD & DRINK Recipes, reviews and recommendations 61
A DAY AT THE RSPCA A look at the work of the local branch
61
12
22 local people 16
THE BIG INTERVIEW KL magazine talks to Ray Johnson
30
TRUE’S YARD MUSEUM The unique centre celebrates 20 years
50
LOCAL HISTORY The extraordinary life of Thomas Baines
54
A QUESTION OF FAITH KL magazine talks to Canon Chris Ivory
56
ARTS PROFILE A profile of local artist Shirley Carnt
56
kl regulars 29
PETS Help and advice with local vet Alex Dallas
42-44 EXPLORER This month we visit Wells-next-the-Sea 46
HEALTH & BEAUTY Help and advice from the experts
66
WILD WEST NORFOLK Michael Middleton’s lighter view of things
KLmagazine June 2011
30 5
The Companions of Park House Sandringham Financing holidays for the disabled
Autumn Ball Saturday 10th September 2011 3-course Dinner and Dance Dancing to The Eddie Seales Band
Tickets £50
For tickets and more information, contact: Ann 01945 581962 or Susan 01945 880310
UP TO 50% OFF
SELECTED KITCHENS! Registered Charity No.1079509
To be held in marquee in the grounds of Park House Hotel, Sandringham – the hotel dedicated to assisting those with disabilities.
KITCHENS, BEDROOMS & BATHROOMS APPLIANCES & TILES ! Complete fitting service ! FREE planning and design ! Supply-only available ! Experienced in-house fitters OPEN: 9-5pm weekdays 9-4.30pm Saturdays
The Precinct, 15 Plowright Place, Swaffham
Tel: 01760 724306
www.harmonykitchens.com
JUNE
BOX OFFICE: (01603) 63 00 00
Wed 1 - Sat 4 June SPIRIT OF THE DANCE International smash hit dance show £6.50 - £26 Sun 5 June HALFWAY TO PARADISE Billy Fury tribute £5.50 - £19.50 Mon 6 - Sat 11 June JEKYLL & HYDE Marti Pellow stars in Broadway hit musical £6.50 - £36 Sun 12 June DYLAN MORAN Curmudgeonly stand up £5.50 - £23 Mon 13 - Sat 18 June BUDDY The world’s most successful rock ‘n’ roll musical £6.50 - £28.50
Sun 19 June LADYSMITH BLACK MAMBAZO Acclaimed vocal group £6.50 - £27.50
Mon 20 - Sat 25 June THE LADY IN THE VAN Nichola McAuliffe stars in Alan Bennett’s comic and poignant drama £5.50 - £19
Mon 27 Jun - Sat 2 Jul DINNERLADIES SECOND HELPINGS Hilarious new adaptation of Victoria Wood’s hit TV series
Book online: www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk THEATRE STREET, NORWICH NR2 1RL
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KLmagazine June 2011
WHAT’S ON
June 4th–5th
BEE AWARE Oxburgh Hall, Oxborough (12pm – 4pm) A chance for all of the family to find out about bees as local beekeepers demonstrate with a live hive. Various activities to show the versatility of these creatures and their products with a children’s bee trail in the house too. For more details contact the bookings officer on 01366 328258.
selected by Charlotte Thorneycroft
24th–26th SANDRINGHAM HORSE DRIVING TRIALS Sandringham Come along to this royal setting to witness the thrill and exhilaration of driving as horses speed round the course skilfully guided by their drivers. Entry is free on all three days of the event which is sponsored by Wallace Cameron. For more information contact 01485 545400 or visit www.drivingtrials.co.uk
4th–8th
FLOWER FESTIVAL St Peter’s Church, Walpole St Peter Now in its 50th year the famous Walpole St Peter flower festival is again expected to attract thousands of visitors. Superb blooms will be on display as well as stalls, refreshments, raffle and children’s games. Entrance is free to the festival which is open from 9am until 6pm daily except Sunday when the festival opens at 12.15pm until 5.30pm.
25th
SUMMER FETE Sacred Heart School, Swaffham (12pm–2pm) Summer fair fun for everyone with stocks, bouncy castle, human fruit machine, air cadet displays, dance displays and more. Plus delicious refreshments in the form of a BBQ and cream teas.
26th
HUNSTANTON CARNIVAL Hunstanton (10am–6pm) Free traditional sea side fun including this year’s themed parade through the town – ‘Parading Through The Ages’. Entertainment for all of the family with Punch and Judy shows, fun fair rides, stalls and music.
26th
VILLAGE OPEN GARDENS Beachamwell, near Swaffham (12pm–5pm) Let’s hope the sun shines for the villagers of Beachamwell, many of whom will be opening their gardens for this summer village fair including the Dereham Band on the Green, treasure hunts, strawberry teas, Ploughman lunches and Tombola. Adults £3, for further information contact Sonia Williams 01366 328817.
If you’ve got an event to publicise, send the details to features@klmagazine.co.uk KLmagazine June 2011
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LOCAL LIFE
ABOVE: Leziate Lakeview Park is one of West Norfolk’s most idyllic locations – and now there are even more reasons to pay it a visit!
Time to take a fresh look at Leziate Lakeview Park...
From tennis to fishing, from business meetings to weddings, there can’t be a more picturesque local location than Leziate Lakeview Park. Charlotte Thorneycroft talks to the team behind the recent changes...
O
ne of West Norfolk’s most idyllic locations is being given a new lease of life together with a complete overhaul of the associated business to create a premiere venue in our region. Leziate Lakeview Park has it all – the beautiful tranquil lake surrounded by mature woodland, relaxing lounge and stylish restaurant area, as well as a large
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function room (with dance floor and bar) and only three miles from King’s Lynn. When Mary Hegarty and her team took over the business in April there was much to be done to reinstate Leziate Park on the top of the leisure and dining map. It was decided the only way to progress would be to start the new venture as something fresh with the slate wiped clean. A completely new team of staff turned their attention to
the image of the venue as Mary explains: “People expect a certain standard from a venue like this (attached to a sailing school) and it simply hadn’t been there in recent years,” she says. “Outside we’ve breathed life back into the grounds which were really starting to suffer from neglect. The restaurant area is light and open with dark leather settees in the laid back bar area so we decided add KLmagazine June 2011
our own little enhancements such as the unique artwork (by local artists) and the mellow sound of jazz playing in the background. It all creates an inviting atmosphere which can be enjoyed by everyone, exactly how we want Leziate Park to be seen.” Country club boundaries have been dropped in favour of a more laid back, open to all ethos. Tennis courts are open to both members and non members with new tournaments planned for the summer. The RYA sailing school (which will be managing activities on the lake) will be holding regular courses and sessions in sailing, kayaking and windsurfing open to all, although membership for use of the lake is available for boat owners who want to take advantage of open access to the water with their own craft. And that isn’t all there is for those with a sporting edge. With a strong future development plan for the site further ideas to be implemented over the coming months include the introduction of fishing to the lake (a very pleasing addition for local anglers), and volleyball. What better way to enjoy a game or two on a hot summer’s day than with an ice cold drink and some local produce KLmagazine June 2011
sizzling hot straight from the barbeque – another unique concept Leziate Lakeview Park are planning to implement. “We have a fantastic terrace spanning the length of the building,” says Mary. “It offers unrivalled views of the scenery looking out across the lake and woodland, it’s the perfect place for a lazy afternoon glass of wine or two. If you’re planning a business lunch, where better to bring a client for a meeting.” With such stunning grounds the venue presents the perfect backdrop for magical weddings, complimented by the large function room designed in popular marquee style. Photos are made picture perfect in the grounds of park and when it comes to parties (for any occasion) the team at Leziate know how to do it in style. Buffets, sit down meals, conferences, entertainment and dancing the Lake View Suite is adapted to suit all. Food at Leziate Lakeview Park has had the biggest transformation now that their experienced head chef has taken the reins in the kitchen. “We have created a simple tempting menu of freshly cooked dishes using the best local produce in season,” explains Mary. “Wanting to make our choices family friendly we have made sure the classics such as fish and chips are still on offer, but
they sit alongside signature dishes like our popular sea bass fillet with crushed potatoes and salsa verde.” Traditional Sunday Roasts are already a big hit and the children’s menu has also been given the seal of approval by mums. As well as being open seven days a week for lunch (delicious sandwiches, tasty homemade soups and fresh summer salads) and dinner, the comfortable lounge seating is the ideal place to settle down to a traditional afternoon tea after an exhilarating walk with nature around the lake. To make this area more accessible to all, a programme of clearing and general TLC within the surrounding grounds is making a big difference creating open spaces on the water’s edge which will be just right for family picnics. Swing by and sample the new tastes on offer, everything has changed and now Leziate Lakeview Park is the place to be in West Norfolk. KL
Details
LEZIATE LAKEVIEW PARK Brow of the Hill, Leziate, King’s Lynn Norfolk PE32 1EN Tel: 01553 630393 E-mail: enquiries@leziatepark.co.uk Web: www.leziatepark.co.uk
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Time to celebrate...
A local treasure trove of cards and gifts – and more!
F
rom humble beginnings, one of King’s Lynn’s longest-established town centre shops has developed into a thriving business selling everything you need for celebratory occasions and more. The aptlynamed Deck of Cards has greetings cards of every description, stocking from a wide repertoire of companies to ensure the shelves are constantly filled with varying designs and styles. But that’s only the start of a shopping trip in The Deck of Cards as there are gifts galore to suit every pocket and occasion, from hand-embellished wedding albums to ceramic kitchen ware. This has been a side of the business owner Bernadette Chappell was keen to expand since moving to new premises on the High Street last year “Having the larger shop has enabled us to stock more diverse product lines and display them more visibly for our customers,” she says. “As well as the gifts, cards and accessories we do party supplies – balloons, banners and plates, even wedding extras like cake and favour boxes! People are often surprised to see we also have a toy section, including an excellent range of pocket money items which are perfect for mums to fill up the goodie bags!” One of the deciding factors behind The Deck of Cards move from Norfolk Street to the High Street was the heritage of the end of the town near St Margaret’s. With a good selection of tourist souvenirs such as King’s Lynn tea towels, postcards, 10
mugs, jigsaws and key rings (and also the famous red bus and phone box print merchandise), Bernadette thought a position in the history-steeped south end of the High Street was more fitting. The building from which The Deck of Cards trades has a very unusual feature that’s regularly photographed by tourists since its renovation last year. This cupola comprises a copper dome on top of a small curved glass windowed tower. Too small to be of much practical use, it’s thought the design was originally made part of the property merely as an ornate feature in a time when flamboyant architectural features were fashionable. Have a look for the unusual cupola feature next time you’re in town and then head inside for even more interesting objects to catch the eye. With daily changing stock there’s always something new to find at The Deck of Cards where friendly, helpful staff are on hand to put the customer first. So for a super choice of cards and gifts at prices that will amaze you there’s no better place to go than the newly-opened Deck Of Cards, King’s Lynn. It’s good to see an independent retailer on the High Street opposite Debenhams.
Details
THE DECK OF CARDS 122 High Street (opposite Debenhams) King’s Lynn PE30 1DD Telephone: 01553 772254
KLmagazine June 2011
WHAT’S ON
A
n important date for your diaries this month is Sunday 19th June – Father’s Day. Make sure your Dad knows how special he is and take him out for the day to one of these local maleorientated events, specially selected by us. And don’t worry – they’re lots of fun for girls too! Medieval Weekend and Father’s Day Saturday 18th and Sunday 19th June The Butterfly and Wildlife Park Long Sutton Dad is sure to enjoy the medieval re-enactments, demonstrations and activities. On Sunday there will be extreme animal handling for Dad’s that dare! A fun day out for all of the family awaits, visit the website for more information www.butterflyandwildlifepark.co.uk
Don’t forget – June 19th! Boys & Their Toys Weekend Saturday 18th/Sunday 19th June (11am–4pm) Oxburgh Hall, Oxborough Take Dad back to his childhood with a trip to Oxburgh this Father’s Day. There will be displays from various model clubs and Bittern Amateur Radio Club will also be broadcasting. Normal Admission prices apply, contact 01366 328258 for more information.
Overnight Bushcraft Trail
Fish ‘n’ Chip Special Saturday 18th June (7.00pm) Mid Norfolk Railway, Dereham Station Take your Dad out for a fish and chip supper with a difference – on board the Mid Norfolk Railway train. Whilst on your journey from Dereham to Wymondham you will enjoy your fish and chip meal (sausage and vegetarian options are available) with a pint of real ale or glass of wine. Fares are £14 for adults, £8 for children including meal and one drink. Call 01362 851723 for further information or bookings.
Saturday 18th/Sunday 19th June Coltishall
Wells Motorcycle Show
Does your Dad fancy himself as the next Ray Mears? Let him try his hand at bushcraft on this two day guided canoe trail delving into the hidden areas of nature within The Broads. Learn to canoe and discover the techniques of bushcraft and campcraft. Booking is essential £130 adults, £100 children and full details/kit list will be provided. Contact The Canoe Man on 01603 499177.
If Dad’s a biker he will love spending Father’s Day at Wells Motorcycle Show. There will be several different classes to enter and judging will take place between 1pm and 2pm. Trade stands, refreshments and motorcycle groups. Organised in aid of the Wells 1st Scout Activity Centre. For more details call 07780 115020.
Sunday 19th June (10am–4pm) Playing Field, Wells-next-the-Sea
The first Father’s Day took place in Fairmont, West Virginia on July 5th, 1908 KLmagazine June 2011
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HISTORY
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KLmagazine June 2011
ABOVE: Despite its imposing appearance, it’s surprising that Castle Rising wasn’t originally intended to perform any defensive duties
Castle Rising: a long history written in stone Starting life as a Roman farm, the magnificent castle at Castle Rising has a long and fascinating story to tell. Charlotte Thorneycroft meets custodian Norman Fahy to hear a small piece of it...
O
wned by Lord Howard of Rising the famous Castle Rising Castle has a long and varied history dating back to the 12th century. It’s widely recognised at one of the finest and most well preserved examples of a stone keep in the country from this period, attracting thousands of visitors each year. The massive 12 acres of earthworks surrounding the castle also add to its national importance although these don’t have the defensive role you may expect. In fact the castle was never intended to be a military property and therefore didn’t require a defence moat, as is the purpose of these ditches around most structures of this type. In the case of Castle Rising Castle
KLmagazine June 2011
the ditch has always remained dry since the sand based soil isn’t suitable for it to be water filled. Norman Fahy has been custodian of the castle for nine years and believes the site is of equal importance to castle itself. “The site begins as a Roman farstead developing in the 2nd century with slight Saxon earthworks created in the 7th century,” he explains. “Evidence suggests this was a monastic enclosure early on with the large earthworks laid out for defining (territorial) purposes and not defensive reasons. It’s likely a colony of primitive monks would have resided here, most likely linked to first Bishop of East Anglia – St Felix.” Within the inner bailey are the remains of
a Saxon church, the earliest stone building on the site dating back to around the 10th century but is built of Roman remains. In the ownership of Bishop Stigand, the site is confiscated by William the Conquerer (as is all of Stigand’s property and wealth, his estate is among the richest in the country) at the time of the Conquest. It’s then the importance of the site is first noted, as rather than dispose of this new land, William keeps Rising, which was most probably for its religious significance. The site is given to William’s son King Rufus who bestows ownership of the site upon his butler (which was a prestigious role and not the position we now associate with the word) William D’Albini. Upon William’s death it passes to his brother 13
HISTORY
ABOVE: Much of the interior of the castle retains a royal atmosphere, and there’s no better guide to its secrets than custodian Norman Fahy (right)
Henry I who re-confirms the gift to William the Butler. Upon his death, William leaves the site to his son, also called William D’Albini who later marries Henry I’s widow Adeliza in 1138. In the same year it is this William who first lays the foundation for the castle, which is thought to have been as a wedding gift to his new wife. Clues of this are in key features of the castle such as the church like entrance of the Great Hall doorway. When Adeliza dies in 1151 William abandons the project unfinished with floors installed but no roof. It is about 1190 when the castle is completed by William’s grandson (yet another William D’Albini) who sees the site as a prime religious residence. Thetford priory records show there was preparation at this time to install a cell of Cluniac monks within the Castle. Passing through the generations, the castle is acquired by Queen Isabella for what is probably its most notable time of history as Norman explains. “After the death of her husband, Edward II, whose murder she is rumoured to have ordered, Isabella is said to have been held prisoner in the Castle by her son Edward III,” he says. “Although she did stay in Castle Rising Castle from 1331 until 1358, the rest of the legend is a myth as are most of the other stories surrounding Queen Isabella. She was completely free and lived a lavish lifestyle here and in case you were wondering, no, there’s no secret tunnel from the castle either!”
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Just after Queen Isabella’s death the site witnessed serious attack. In 1381 The Peasants Revolt brought intruders to the castle who managed to breach the defences. After they were finally removed it was decided the Castle should have further protection to prevent this kind of thing happening again, the only time work was carried out purely for defence. The bank height was increased by 50%. Visitors can gauge this by standing near the shop and drawing an imaginary line from the top railing of the bridge fence. The Norman wall is buried within this later earthwork and three lookout towers were built about this time. It is 1544 when the property comes into the hands of its current family – the Howard’s, when Henry VIII swaps it for a huge estate in Felixstowe owned by Thomas Howard. From a map of the site drawn in 1588 it looks as though the main gate had by now gone out of use and was blocked off. Instead the tower on the North West side was being used as a gate through which a path then led via a bridge directly down to the market square. In the Mid 19th century Mary Howard, a keen historian, began to repair the Castle and her respect for it was immense. She ordered the level of the yard to be dropped by 8ft and requested the men to sieve the soil so that any items they found could be kept. What resulted was hundreds of historic artefacts from knives and forks to padlocks and keys. Two other historic finds included ‘Roaring ‘Meg’ and ‘Pretty Betty’ two giant prison blocks which allowed
prisoners from the dungeon to be released into society, although they would have struggled to get far carrying the hefty weights. There are wonderful elements of Castle Rising Castle that have been preserved like the gargoyle heads looking down from what would once have been the Great Hall down to the now open basement. The kitchen is particularly interesting with primitive but recognisable washing and cooking areas. In the upper room of the keep tower is an unusual tiled diamond on the floor in front of an iron fireplace, from here as from many of the upper windows are spectacular viewpoints across the village. It’s a delight to see a castle of this age in such condition with a full history dating back to its humble origins. There are very few places in England that compare with Castle Rising, and a visit fills the head with intrigue and questions, some of which are still awaiting answers. KL
KLmagazine June 2011
“Saving you money year after year...” Est.1987
N DEPOOS IT!
Celebrating 25 years in business...
E
conomy Windows are pleased to announce the opening of their new re-vamped Wisbech conservatory showsite in celebration of their forthcoming 25th anniversary. After considerable investment and time over the past 7 months, designs and products have been installed to suit all budgets and styles with a massive selection of colour and finishes. We are also thrilled to be awarded a place within the Top 100 Master Window and Conservatory Installers Association for the 2nd year running. Due to recent high demand for coloured products we have a range of grained foil products in white, rosewood, light oak, cream, black, green (2 shades), Irish oak and anthracite grey. In addition to our coloured foil range we offer a custom colour service (200+ RAL colours). Our ranges include Conventional Casement Windows, Sash Box Vertical Sliding Windows and Tilt-Turn Windows. Our Doors include PVC-u, Bi-fold Composite Doors, French Doors and Patio Doors with a variety of cills to accommodate all situations, including thresholds for wheelchair access. As a long
established local company, employing our own installation staff, we have been supplying and fitting the highest quality windows, doors, conservatories, pvc soffitsfascia rainwater products for our many thousands of satisfied customers. Customer satisfaction and confidence is assured by our dedicated after sales service and the inclusive 10 year GGF Insurance Guarantee. As we have always focused on offering the best quality products and presenting
them to our customer in a relaxed and informal environment, surrounded by our colourful range of cane furniture. Our showsites at Kings Lynn and Wisbech are crucial in achieving this objective. The introduction of new products and innovations currently available, enable us to enhance our range of products without compromise. This includes our latest addition – the pv solar panel. For Free Technical Survey and detailed Quotation please call Chris Ashley on 01553 777088 Ext 230 to book an appointment.
Discover the benefits of A-rated windows ‘A’ rated windows are a huge improvement over most of the double glazing windows installed over the last 30 years, almost all of which will lose nearly twice as much heat as an ‘A’ rated window. With energy prices rising and rising, the benefit of installing an ‘A’ rated window will help not only the environment, but will save thousands of pounds on household heating bills. Now is the time to replace Timber, PVC-u and Aluminium windows with ECOtherm+ ‘A’ rated windows which have the appearance of timber without the maintenance cost.
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PERSONALITY
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KLmagazine June 2011
Big
the
interview
KL magazine talks to Ray Johnson, Chairman of the Board of Freebridge Community Housing about the work of Freebridge around King’s Lynn... KL MAGAZINE: What are the main roles of Freebridge Community Housing? RAY JOHNSON: Freebridge Community Housing is the largest provider of affordable housing in West Norfolk. We own and manage around 7,000 homes, with about half of these in and around King’s Lynn. We were set up five years ago and one of our key objectives was to bring the homes up to Decent Homes standards – back then just 24% of the properties met this standard, but today 80% of our homes are ‘Decent.’ We’re working to meet the needs of local people who want affordable accommodation. We’ve purchased or developed 75 homes and we’re set to develop a further 34. We’re committed to achieving our mission of developing homes and creating opportunities for people within West Norfolk. KL MAGAZINE: What does the role of Chairman involve? RAY JOHNSON: My role is to lead the Board of Freebridge, working closely with other board members and the Chief Executive to deliver our shared objectives. The Board leads and controls Freebridge by setting overall strategy and developing the business plan for the coming four years with a detailed plan for the coming year. The board is made up of tenant, independent and council representatives who all fulfil their roles on a voluntary basis. We need a range of skills on the board to help us shape the service and we’re always keen to hear from potential new members. KL MAGAZINE: What particular challenges/opportunities does King’s Lynn have for a housing association? RAY JOHNSON: The challenge we have is providing decent homes and neighbourhoods where people want to live whilst continuing to do this against a difficult financial backdrop. The large area we cover is also a challenge given the contrast in requirements. In King’s Lynn our priorities are about estate regeneration as shown by our extensive work on the Fairstead Estate and the project we’ve only recently started at Hillington Square with
KLmagazine June 2011
Hemingway Design. Whereas in rural areas it’s about providing services and homes that make communities sustainable – such as the recent development in Great Massingham. We’re always looking for opportunities to help meet housing needs in rural areas and work widely with those communities to help provide homes for local people. If any landowners or Parish Councils are interested in working in partnership with Freebridge in order to provide low-cost housing we’d be delighted to talk to them. KL MAGAZINE: What’s been your greatest achievement as Chairman? RAY JOHNSON: Helping maintaining the momentum to improve the organisation’s performance to deliver better accommodation for our tenants is something that’s important to me – so the continuing increase in tenant satisfaction is excellent news. And winning a Mayor of King’s Lynn and West Norfolk Design in the Environment Award for our new development at Charles Dewar Close in Great Massingham was very pleasing too. KL MAGAZINE: What does the future hold for Freebridge? RAY JOHNSON: Freebridge will continue to be a strong independent organisation which will fulfil its objectives, working with and for our tenants. KL MAGAZINE: Who inspires you? RAY JOHNSON: Throughout my working career I’ve been encouraged by several individuals to continue my studies and accept progress. In my early days, Mr Brian Everett – an ex-employee of a housing maintenance team – encouraged me to continue my studies. This, coupled with a lecturer from
King’s Lynn College and a student who remained a good friend, helped me establish a good base on which to qualify with a BSc Hon Degree in Estate Management. KL MAGAZINE: Do you have a favourite place in West Norfolk – and why? RAY JOHNSON: I was born in Brancaster and lived the first eighteen years of my life there, so I always enjoy a visit to the beach and a walk towards Scolt Head. KL MAGAZINE: How do you like to relax? RAY JOHNSON: Walking/exercising our Golden Retriever, observing the wildlife along the coast, in Sandringham Woods, Sheringham Park or many of the similar locations we have nearby. I’m also a member of King’s Lynn Golf Club and enjoy the occasional game of golf. KL MAGAZINE: What would your alternative career be? RAY JOHNSON: I retired from a successful career in property in 2009, when I applied to join the Board of Freebridge. Had I not made it as a surveyor I would probably have followed my father into farming or my brother into sea-front trading at Hunstanton. KL MAGAZINE: Tell us something about yourself that would surprise people... RAY JOHNSON: I have an allergy to bee and wasp stings – the medical profession tell me I have about 45 minutes to either self-inject or get to a doctor. I have yet to put it to the test ! I discovered the allergy in 1967 whilst working with Brian Everett when I was only eighteen. Brian drove me in my car from near Brancaster to the nearest doctor in Docking, and then home to my parents. I only discovered when I met up with him last year that Brian hadn’t driven a car before that day!
Details FREEBRIDGE COMMUNITY HOUSING Juniper House, Austin Street, King’s Lynn PE30 1DZ Tel: 03332 404 444 E-mail: enquiries@freebridge.org.uk Web: www.freebridge.org.uk
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625 local venues, businesses and services in West Norfolk. One essential website. The West Norfolk Access Guide is designed to provide the broadest range of access information for everyone – not only those living and working in West Norfolk, but also visitors to the area. The West Norfolk Access Guide website is the most detailed access information website listing businesses (incorporating retail, commercial, entertainment and leisure facilities) available in West Norfolk – at the moment there are 625 entries! And all the information available is in one place for ease of use. The prime purpose of the Guide is to enable everyone to make their own informed decisions as to the usability of a venue based on their own particular access requirements – so you can say goodbye to wasted journeys and spoilt evenings out and say hello to a world of opportunity! The designers (the West Norfolk Disability Forum) hope that the website will make a real difference to your life, enabling you to plan an accessible holiday, open a bank account, have a night out, enjoy a shopping trip and get out and about – in effect, do exactly what you’ve planned and want to do.
www.westnorfolkaccessguide.co.uk Owned and operated by the Borough Council of King’s Lynn & West Norfolk
HISTORY
West Norfolk: Now and Then
PICTURE: COURTESY OF NORFOLK COUNTY COUNCIL LIBRARY AND INFORMATION SERVICE
2011
1965 MYSTERY SOLVED! This month’s archive photograph caused quite a debate as to where it was taken. Sorry to everyone who helpfully pointed us in the direction of Norfolk Street, but thanks to the decorative arch on the corner of what’s now Debenhams we can confirm
it’s the High Street. Luckily, although shops and fashions might change, but decorative arches stay the same! This photograph and many others like it can be ordered from Picture Norfolk – you can contact them at the Norfolk Heritage Centre, Norfolk and Norwich Millennium Library, The Forum,
Millennium Plain, Norwich, Norfolk NR2 1AW. We’ll be bringing you another nostalgic look at West Norfolk next month. IN ASSOCIATION WITH
To view thousands of images of Norfolk’s history visit: www.picture.norfolk.gov.uk KLmagazine June 2011
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KLmagazine June 2011
InsideInvestments with David Malkin, Regional Director
How the recent changes affect you and your finances... The annual real return from UK equities over the 50 years from 1960 to the end of 2010 was 5.4% with income reinvested, according to Barclays Capital. The return without adjusting for inflation was 11.7% per year. With inflation (RPI) running at over 5% currently, this reminds us just how important it is to invest in real assets like equities if we’re to keep ahead of inflation. Real interest rates on cash deposits are negative at the moment, and have been for some time. It’s important to make your investments as tax efficient as possible. The ISA allowance has been increased to £10,680 this tax year (2011/12) and will increase in line with CPI (Consumer Price Inflation) inflation. Putting the maximum into an ISA every year – if you can afford it – obviously makes sense. For a couple, this means that £21,360 can be invested. The maximum allowance can be split between stocks and shares and cash ISAs. The maximum that can be invested into a cash ISA is £5,340 – you can invest less than the £5,340 into a cash ISA with any balance being invested into a stocks and shares ISA up to the maximum allowance of £10,680. This is a valuable allowance and should be used to the maximum in the tax year – if not, it’s lost forever. Junior ISAs (for UK resident children under the age of 18) will provide an opportunity to start young! These are expected to be available from the Autumn. The attractiveness of VCT and EIS investments has also been improved following the recent budget. Capital Gains Tax allowance has also gone up to £10,600 and will go up in future in line with CPI Inflation. The world of pensions has also changed again, but this time for the better. The very complicated measures to limit the pension tax relief for high earners are now history, and the new rules for income drawdown are a great
improvement. There’s no longer any need to buy an annuity at age 75. The annual contribution allowance (AA) into a pension will reduce from £255,000 to £50,000 (fixed until after 2015/16). The proposal by the Government is for a flat rate state pension of around £140 per week. The state pension age is already increased to age 66 by 2020. Pensions are a very in-depth subject to cover here, but you can find a lot more detail on our website at www.35finance.com along with plenty of information on the other items mentioned above. Anyone approaching retirement or thinking of taking the benefits from their pension plan are recommended to contact an Independent Financial Adviser (IFA) to obtain professional advice on the best options available in taking the benefits – this will include researching an enhanced pension (ill health), OMO (open market option) for the best annuity rates available and explaining pension drawdown. There seem to have been so many natural disasters and conflicts lately to shake our confidence in the continued growth of the stockmarkets of the world. Certainly, the UK stockmarket has struggled to break out of a range around 6,000 for the FTSE100 since the beginning of the year. It’s up 12% over a year, and 38% over two years – in fact, this is about as good as it gets from an investment point of view. Although the economy is only growing slowly in the UK, there are plenty of opportunities for UK and other companies abroad. The rapid growth of the BRIC economies has been driving up the prices of many commodities, but in recent days there has been some correction in the commodities market. Nevertheless, fear has driven
up the price of gold to unprecedented levels. There’s a mixture of opportunities and threats, emphasising the need for a well-diversified and balanced investment portfolio. It’s very important to keep the costs of your portfolio down, where possible. As always, you’re strongly recommended to consult an IFA for independent professional advice for all your financial matters.
David Malkin
13 New Conduit Street, King’s Lynn, Norfolk PE30 1DE T: 01553 771968 E: d.malkin@35finance.co.uk W: www.35finance.co.uk Authorised and Regulated by the Financial Services Authority
KLmagazine June 2011
21
WHAT’S ON
ABOVE: The Hoosiers, headlining Festival Too on Saturday, July 9th
Here comes Festival Too – big names and bumpy rides! Later this month, Festival Too 2011 kicks off one of the largest free music festivals in Europe with a host of big name artists and plenty of street entertainment. Charlotte Thorneycroft looks at this year’s line-up...
N
ow one of the largest free music festivals in Europe, King’s Lynn’s Festival Too started with a tiny budget of just £5,000. Back in 1985, a group of likeminded local business people got together wanting to create a popular music event for the town which would be sponsorship driven. Local support was astounding and Festival Too rapidly grew to attract some of the top artists around as well as providing free street entertainment on the Saturdays of the event. From humble beginnings the budget for Festival Too is now £80,000 and because the event is completely non-profit
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making, every penny raised goes back into the fund for the following year’s festival. Over 250 sponsors now help to make Festival Too the attraction it is, including The Borough Council of King’s Lynn and West Norfolk as well as many other national and local businesses and private individuals too. Previous acts have included chart toppers such as Lemar, Atomic Kitten, Bad Manners, The Human League and The Stranglers. This year’s line up is just as impressive with confirmed headline act The Hoosiers taking to the stage in association with KLFM on the evening of Saturday 9th July.
The popular indie/pop rock band are probably best known for their first debut hit in 2007 ‘Worried About Ray’ and their follow up single ‘Goodbye Mr A’, both of which made it into the top five in the UK charts. In April the band released their latest album ‘Bumpy Ride’ as a re-release of their former album ‘The Illusion of Safety’ with four added songs. Their performance at Festival Too will be a mix of old and new from the band with favourites sure to be a big hit with the large crowd expected to attend. Festival Too kicks off with a bang on Saturday 25th June with street performers
KLmagazine June 2011
lighted to see that “The borough council is de another strong er Festival Too has put togeth King’s Lynn is t that line-up this year. It’s grea nd’s foremost free able to host one of Engla enty plus years of popular music festivals. Tw eer effort by the lunt unstinting and unselfish vo is something we local business community ateful for...” should all be immensely gr
RAY HARDING Chief Executive, The Borough Council of King’s Lynn & West Norfolk
Festival Too 2011 lineup Saturday 25th June Day (Town Centre) Street Entertainment with Dave Do-Nut, Guitar George, Justo James, and Sheridan the Sheepdog Night (Tuesday Market Place) 8.30pm Elton John Tribute – King Staithe Square 10.30pm Fireworks sponsored by Roomfoss (weather permitting) Friday 1st July Night (Tuesday Market Place) 8pm The Yesterdays 9.30pm Howard Jones
ABOVE: Sophie Ellis-Bextor, performing in King’s Lynn on Friday 8th July
throughout the day followed by an Elton John tribute act in the evening, all of which is rounded off by a spectacular firework display sponsored by RoomFoss. Also in the line up this year is pop favourite Sophie Ellis-Bextor back in music with her fourth album after having baby number two. She has seen ten years in the business but Sophie admits it still excites her, and the new album is packed with all the floor filling beats we expect from her. Sophie will be performing at Festival Too on Friday 8th July, so get the dance shoes and prepare to boogie. But at Festival Too it’s not just about the big pop names, and there’s a whole performance dedicated to local stars as KLFM and Twisted Melon Promotions present The Battle of the Bands winners live
KLmagazine June 2011
on stage before The Hoosiers. Mark Stanford, Publicity Officer for Festival Too enjoys the vibrant atmosphere “It’s always great to see the crowds arrive in King’s Lynn for Festival Too after all the behind-the-scenes work throughout the year by the committee,” he says. “It makes all the preparation worthwhile and helps to create a great buzz with the street entertainment and live music bringing in people from all over the country.” Three weekends of amazing entertainment for all the family completely free and here in King’s Lynn! The dedicated organisers who work hard to promote Festival Too behind the scenes would like to thank all of their sponsors as without their generosity and support Festival Too would not be possible.
Saturday 2nd July Day (Town Centre) Street Entertainment with Raz the Clown and Auntie Pearl, The Katie Ketchup Show, Pinxton Puppets, Dave Do-Nut, and Professor Crump Night (Tuesday Market Place) 6.30pm Birkenhed 8pm Lady GaGa Tribute 9.30pm The Lightening Seeds Friday 8th July Night (Tuesday Market Place) 8pm Sinead and the Dawnbreakers 9.30pm Sophie Ellis-Bextor Saturday 9th July Day (Town Centre) Street Entertainment with Bill Bailey’s Swinging Jazz Band, Alan Astra and Barbara, Raz the Clown and Auntie Pearl, Guitar George, and the Chester Mazing Magic Circus Show Night (Tuesday Market Place) 6.30pm Battle of the Bands Winner 9.30pm The Hoosiers
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GARDENING
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KLmagazine June 2011
ABOVE: Derek Bowdery of Eau Brink Cacti Nursery – a veritable wonderland of cacti and succulents
Derek’s enduring passion for all things spiky They’re the most distinctive plants on the planet, and Derek Bowdery knows more than most people about them. Charlotte Thorneycroft visits his nursery outside King’s Lynn. Pictures: Sue Payne
C
acti are one of the most unique plant forms on the planet and are commonly appreciated in England as an ornamental species. Native to the Americas, evidence of cactus-like plants dates back to the time of the Aztecs, although the first introduction of cacti to Britain was by Christopher Columbus. It’s thought their popularity rapidly grew because they were so unusual, and unlike any other plant seen before in Europe. All Cacti come from North and South America but they don’t grow in deserts as many believe. They’ve adapted to grow in other
KLmagazine June 2011
countries after being selectively placed there by man rather than nature. Derek Bowdery is the owner of Eau Brink Cacti Nursery just outside King’s Lynn and has been collecting succulent plants for over 50 years. He has literally thousands of plants on his 1.5 acre site. “There are around 2,000 different types of cacti but only a handful of these are the type of plants which most people would recognise as the cacti kept as houseplants,” he says. “If you include succulents – cacti are a type of succulent but not all succulents are cacti – there are some interesting species
that don’t even look like plants. For instance, the Lithops genus, which are known as ‘living stones’ for obvious reasons.” Succulents are so called because they store water within themselves, having adapted to live in dry, arid conditions. The most notable feature of succulents is their plump, swollen appearance, which is due to this water retention. Most succulents (and all cacti) have spiny or hairy surfaces to lessen air movement around the surface of the plant and consequently reduce water loss. The spines have evolved from what would once have 25
ABOVE: Derek Bowdery carefully propagating a few of his thousands of cacti and succulents, which come in an amazing range of colours and shapes including ‘living stones’ (opposite, centre)
been the leaves of the plant and on cacti (exclusively) they emerge from specialised features called areoles (as do the flowers). In the wild, these sharp needle-like spines protect the plant from predators. Cacti have a Crassulacean acid metabolism which means transpiration takes place at night through the storing of carbon dioxide during the day – unlike other plants, which use photosynthesis during daylight hours. The result is a complex growing system and it’s a common misconception that keeping cacti as houseplants is easy because they require little care or watering. Derek has a few important pointers to optimum cactus care: “I water my plants roughly every two weeks, which is fine during spring and summer months, but overwatering can be just as harmful as not watering,” he explains. “Make sure the plants have a good soak but then leave them and allow them to dry out completely between watering. Most species have a dormancy period during winter months where they won’t grow at all and so watering should be stopped from around mid September until March.” All succulent plants require an open soilbased compost with a little grit mixed in (roughly one third grit) and be sure to use the right sized pot. Food is only really needed once or twice a year during the
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summer and this should be low in nitrogen (a tomato fertilizer often works best). However, don’t be tempted to feed your succulent in the first year. Light is imperative for succulent growth, since unlike other plants with many green leaves (amassing a large surface area) the surface area on which to absorb light is very small. Ideally a collection is best kept in a glasshouse or conservatory but sunny windowsills can also be suitable. Keeping the succulents in environments such as this will also give warmer conditions in which they’ll thrive – but some heat and/or insulation may need to be added during cold spells. Cacti vary considerably in both size and shape from tall cylindrical plants such as the Cephalocereus (of which the Cephalocereus Senilis has a unique white hair which gives it its name!) to the Mammillaria genus which contains some almost perfectly spherical species with beautiful bright flowers. One of the largest cacti is the Carnegiea Gigantea (more commonly known as the Saguaro). This huge cactus is widely recognised as a symbol of the Wild West gracing the backdrop of many a desert western and cartoon. These tree-like plants can live for 300 years and the iconic ‘arms’ don’t begin to grow until the cacti is around 60 years old, but they can eventually reach over fifteen metres in height. KL
Details THE EAU BRINK ANNUAL CACTI SHOW 2011 Saturday 26th June (11am–4pm) The British Cactus and Succulents Society is a national organisation offering international membership to all growers of succulents whether small hobby collectors or professional cultivators. Started in 1983 the Society now has over 3,000 members and holds regular shows throughout the year via its 80 regional branches. The King’s Lynn and West Norfolk branch show at Eau Brink is open to everyone, with a variety of classes to suit both novice and experienced growers. “All our members are passionate about the plants and they’re always pleased to share their knowledge to anyone just starting out in succulents,” says Derek. “Coming along to the show offers a great insight into the world of cacti and I’m sure seeing all of the different species, some pretty, some unusual would be a real eye opener to visitors.” Visitors should note parking may be limited at the Cacti Nursery.
KLmagazine June 2011
CALEY MILL (BEHIND NORFOLK LAVENDER)
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ur latest showroom, set in the magnificent grounds and tourist destination of Norfolk Lavender Fields at Heacham, is home to our largest collection of Sia home fashion accessories and latest furniture collections. Offering a contemporary coastal feel throughout, in keeping with its surroundings, this imaginatively stocked showroom offers an extensive collection of truly unique gift ideas alongside designer furnishings suitable for any home. Truly inspirational, truly distinctive and truly unique – visit us today.
Lynn Road, Heacham, Norfolk, PE31 7JE Telephone: 01485 570 775 Unique Interiors/Design Studio 01553 813198
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KLmagazine June 2011
AnimalMatters
PETS
Our monthly look at the issues concerning you and your pets with Alex Dallas of the London Road Veterinary Centre...
PetProblems Q
We are going on holiday in July and will have to put our terrier Beetle into boarding kennels. Is there anything special we need to do to be sure she is alright? BRENDA, Syderstone
A
I find most dogs enjoy the kennels, especially terriers, with all that barking to do! We’re also very lucky in West Norfolk that we have some excellent kennels with extremely caring staff. The only thing to consider is having Beetle vaccinated against kennel cough as this is something that can affect dogs when large numbers are housed together. ALEX
Small bites
We’re all getting old!
I
t’s the part of pet ownership we dread. Eventually, but inevitably our companions start to show they’re beginning to age. Perhaps they just seem a bit slower on a walk, with a bit more puffing and panting, or they may lose some weight, or become a little less active. We begin to worry they may be not as happy, or worse still that they could be in pain. It’s easy to bury your head in the sand and just say to yourself ‘well, he’s getting on.’ Three of our own cats are well into double figures, and I want the dogs to stay young forever! However, there is good news! These days we can offer some very significant help to these older pets. There are some very beneficial diet foods that can make a remarkable difference to both dogs and cats. We have some genuinely effective supplements that can improve mobility, and when necessary we have some terrific medicines that can ease arthritic pain and vastly improve the quality of life for the
older pet. Best of all, we have our team of dedicated qualified veterinary nurses who carry out health checks for your elderly pets, and that’s free of charge. So at no cost we’ll weigh, examine and review your pet’s wellbeing and we can recommend any steps that you may wish to take to improve the quality of life for your companion. We may simply give you the reassurance that your pet is healthy and happy, and you’re already doing the best you can. If we find that your pet will benefit from, for example, dental treatment to relieve a painful mouth, or perhaps start a course of arthritis medication to take away joint or back pain, then we can refer you and your pet to one of the veterinary surgeons. Our success with improving the lives of older pets is significant and one of the most satisfying aspects of our job. So don’t be worried and don’t be in denial, we want to help. After all we are also pet owners and also have the same fears about our own elderly friends.
We’re enjoying some lovely weather at the moment, but it’s also great weather for fleas and ticks. They’re here in huge numbers currently. The good news is that some of the best products for treating and controlling these pests are on special offer through June. Contact your vet for advice and prevent an infestation for less money!
Your pets This month’s pet is Benji the water-loving spaniel. Thanks to D. Lowe of Fairstead, for sending the picture – their all-time favourite from the Benji album. Don’t forget to keep sending me pictures of your pets (the funnier the better!) to Animal Matters at KL magazine, 18 Tuesday Market Place, King’s Lynn, Norfolk PE30 1JW or e-mail them to editor@klmagazine.co.uk
LONDON ROAD 25 London Road, King’s Lynn t: 01553 773168 e: info@lrvc.co.uk HOLLIES Paradise Road, Downham Market t: 01366 386655 e: hollies@holliesvetclinic.co.uk KLmagazine June 2011
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LOCAL LIFE
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KLmagazine June 2011
Celebrating the past – and future – of King’s Lynn Since 1981, it’s been one of the most important heritage sites in East Anglia, but it’s not just about preserving the past. Andrew Roberts visits the unique True’s Yard Museum in King’s Lynn to find out more...
T
his year, True’s Yard Museum is celebrating its 20th anniversary. All that remains of King’s Lynn’s old fishing community of the North End, which was levelled in the slum clearances of the 1930s and 50s, it’s a fascinating – and valuable – glimpse into a past world and a lost community. But although it’s recognised (and highly regarded) as a museum, True’s Yard does a lot more than preserve the past – it’s very much part of life in King’s Lynn today and it’s looking firmly to the future. It’s something that many people don’t realise, but True’s Yard has extensive research facilities and a priceless archive for people wishing to trace their ancestry in King’s Lynn and for students and historians
KLmagazine June 2011
researching the town. In addition to the History Centre, an impressive IT suite offers a range of adult education and computer courses for everyone from complete novices to advanced users interested in subjects such as digital photography. The gift shop at True’s Yard has an extensive range of local history books and local crafts alongside the nautical memorabilia and replica boats, and the tearoom offers a great selection of snacks, cakes and drinks in a traditional setting with unique panelling from the early 18th century – and you don’t have to pay to enter the museum to enjoy them (or the regular talks on local history held there)! One of the most exciting projects at
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True’s Yard is the ongoing creation of a ‘living’ Sound Archive, preserving people’s memories and experiences of life in King’s Lynn. At the moment, the Archive includes a fascinating selection of original ‘NorthEnders’ talking about their personal recollections on a huge range of subjects such as what Christmas Day was like in the North End of 1914. It’s important that the Sound Archive (literally) records the life of King’s Lynn, so True’s Yard is very keen to attract more contributions. It doesn’t matter if you’ve only lived in King’s Lynn for five years and were born on the other side of the world – what’s vital is that your impressions are preserved for future generations. “True’s Yard is a vital slice of heritage,” says the tireless Chairman Dr Paul Richards, “not just of King’s Lynn – but of the whole of East Anglia. It celebrates and preserves a way of life that could easily have been completely obliterated.” That celebration would be next to impossible without the invaluable help of the Borough Council (who recognise True’s Yard as a genuine civic heritage asset) and the Friends of True’s Yard (there are currently around 300) who provide a range of fundraising initiatives and contribute in a variety of ways. Not least is the team of volunteers who help run and maintain the mseum and its exhibits. “They’re the lifeblood of True’s Yard,” says Museum Manager Joanna Barrett, “and we’d really struggle without their help – some of their skills simply can’t be replicated.” True’s Yard is a fascinating independent community museum, a heritage centre and an invaluable local resource. “Our task is not simply to ensure that True’s Yard is economically viable,” says Dr Richards, “but that we act as responsible custodians for its future.” And thanks to the thousands of visitors who regularly enjoy True’s Yard, that future looks very bright indeed. KL
ABOVE: Detail of a model by Frederick Hall of North Street in 1884 (True’s Yard is circled)
ABOVE: Museum volunteer Ev Wright at work on Activity (LN89)
ABOVE: Joanna Barrett, Museum Manager
Details TRUE’S YARD MUSEUM North Street, King’s Lynn PE30 1QW Opening Times: Tues-Sat 10am-4pm Tel: 01553 770479 Web: www.truesyard.co.uk E-mail: info@truesyard.co.uk
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ABOVE: Dr Paul Richard has been Chairman of True’s Yard Museum for the last 12 years KLmagazine June 2011
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KLmagazine June 2011
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Our fish is so fresh you really can taste the difference!
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KLmagazine June 2011
FOOD & DRINK
Seared Tuna and Flower Sprout Stir Fry
Preparation Time: 5 minutes Cooking Time: 10 minutes Serves: 2 KLmagazine June 2011
INSTRUCTIONS 1 Rub the tuna steaks with a little of the sesame oil and season on both sides. 2 In a hot frying pan griddle cook the steaks for 1 minute on each side. Remove the steaks from the pan and set aside to rest. 3 In a large frying pan, heat the remaining oil and tip in the broccoli, ginger and garlic. Stir fry for 3-4 minutes then add the flower sprouts and cook for a further 2-3 minutes until the veg are tender. Sprinkle over the sesame seeds and stir through then squeeze over the juice of half the lime and the soy. Give it a final stir then divide between two plates. 4 Slice the tuna thickly and lay on top of the stir fry. Top with the spring onions and a wedge of lime.
PICTURES: WWW.THINKVEGETABLES.CO.UK
INGREDIENTS 2 tuna steaks 2tsp sesame oil 100g Tenderstem broccoli 2cm ginger (grated) 1 garlic clove (finely diced) 160g flower sprouts, trimmed and halved 1tbsp sesame seeds 1 lime 1tbsp dark soy sauce 2 spring onions cut into 4cm lengths and finely sliced sideways
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COMPETITION
Win! Dinner for two, a luxury overnight stay and breakfast!
Your chance to win a very tasty prize in our competition – in association with Briarfields at Titchwell!
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
1 Nigella Lawson 2 Jamie Oliver 3 Marco Pierre-White 4 Heston Blumenthal 5 Madhur Jaffrey 6 Gary Rhodes 7 Gordon Ramsay 8 Rachel Allen
H
ere’s your chance to enjoy a fabulous meal for two people, overnight stay and breakfast at the highlyregarded Briarfields at Titchwell – and all you have to do is name the eight celebrity chefs pictured above (to make it easy for you, you’ll find all their names opposite). To enter, simply match the picture with the name – so if you think Picture A is Heston Blumenthal, your answer will be A–4. E-mail your answers to us at Competitions@klmagazine.co.uk before Monday June 20th and the winner will be the first correct entry drawn at random after that date. Please note that the prize is not transferable, no correspondence will be entered into and the Editor’s decision is final. Good luck with the competition!
01485 210742 info@briarfieldshotelnorfolk.co.uk www.briarfieldshotelnorfolk.co.uk
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KLmagazine June 2011
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Real choice, real quality and real people – all the customers above actually recommended King’s Oak to each other. Isn’t it time you discovered why more people are choosing us for their new kitchen? 48 Bergen Way, North Lynn Industrial Estate, King’s Lynn PE30 2JG Tel: 01553 762749 Open: Mon-Fri 9am-5.30pm Sat 9am-4pm
www.kingsoakkitchens.co.uk 37
FOOD & DRINK
RestaurantReview
In her culinary quest to enjoy a taste of everything west Norfolk has to offer, Ann Weaver visits the much-lauded and highly regarded Hoste Arms in Burnham Market...
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ituated on the Green in the pretty village of Burnham Market, the Hoste Arms leaps out from the rest of the street with its feature greenery forking between the windows of the grand white building. Inside, the smart restaurant is divided into various rooms – a large light and airy conservatory (which was alive with activity) and wooden panelled rooms with low lighting, one of which we were seated in. Our waitress was extremely pleasant and helpful, with a thorough knowledge of all the dishes on the menu which I found very impressive – the Hoste Arms obviously puts customer service high on its list of priorities. The menu is true fine dining with some interesting (and quite honestly, unusual)
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flavour combinations. We jumped in feet first to try something different, with my husband choosing Breast of Local Pigeon to start – with Rhubarb Compote, Black Pepper Ice Cream [sic], Wilted Spinach and Toasted Brioche. I opted for Vanilla, Vodka, Dill and Goji Berry cured Salmon with Celeriac Remoulade and Soft Herbs. The service was very quick (orders are all electronically sent to the kitchen) and our starters arrived with beautiful presentation. Surprisingly, I could taste every flavour on the salmon (which I wasn’t expecting) and I found it light and refreshing, my only complaint being the slate on which it was served – trying to use a knife is much like fingernails down a blackboard! So, does ice cream on brioche work with rhubarb and The Hoste Arms roast pigeon? Yes, it most Burnham Market, Norfolk PE31 8HD certainly does – Tel: 01328 738777 the very slight Website: www.hostearms.co.uk sweetness of E-mail: reception@hostearms.co.uk the ice cream and rhubarb balanced perfectly with the deep, strong flavour of the pigeon.
There wasn’t any ‘theme’ for the main course selections with choices ranging from traditional rustic British classics to pasta, with some oriental twists and even a South African curry which I decided sounded too good not to try. After mulling over the Sea Bass with Coconut Chutney and Spring Rolls, hubby finally opted for something in a more substantial portion (advised by the waitress) – Roast Breast of Gressingham Duck with potato rosti, roasted butternut squash, broccoli and sauté wild mushrooms. Again, the presentation was most attractive and the portions were a good size. My Natal Lamb Curry was served with a mango chutney, riata, basmati rice and mini naan breads which were actually so mini they didn’t need to be there. Each element of my dish was delicious in its own right (though I wasn’t expecting the chutney to be far spicier than the curry!) but put them all together and there was a definite ‘wow’ factor. The kitchen knows what it’s doing at the Hoste Arms – things aren’t put together because they should be (or sound good), but because they form a new creative taste. My husband was equally impressed with his duck, which was cooked perfectly with the saltiness of the bird and mushrooms smoothed out by the sweet squash. When it came to dessert it was a difficult decision so we chose the Assiete of Hoste Desserts, a tasting plate for two consisting of Green Tea Crème Brulee, Sticky Toffee Pudding, Chocolate Fondant, Champagne Sorbet and Iced White Peach Parfait. All the dishes could be ordered in full portions from the menu and I was expecting the main elements as a taster. Instead, each small dessert had been presented with its accompaniments to give a true taste of the dish and it was all heavenly. There were no hints of flavouring anywhere – just true, authentic ingredients that packed a real punch! We had a lovely evening at the Hoste Arms and I couldn’t fault the food or the service in any way. Pricewise, our bill came to £83.25 with two soft drinks and two small alcoholic ones, and I do think some items on the menu are expensive (£5.20 for a small glass of wine stands out). However, it’s definitely somewhere I’ll look forward to eating again and would highly recommend to others – just make sure you book! KL KLmagazine June 2011
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ucked away in a leafy corner next to the church, the Church Gate Tea Rooms (together with its Bed & Breakfast) look every bit the country cottage establishment from the outside. Inside, the small room was promisingly full of other diners, so after I’d managed to attract the attention of the non-uniformed waitress (who not-so-helpfully informed us the tea room was full) I suggested we use the table outside until one became ready – which seemed to cause some inconvenience. As we sat shivering over the menu, we were told the Specials Board was inside, requiring us to ask what was on it since we (as yet) were not! The menu consisted of the usual cafe dishes – sandwiches, jacket potatoes and breakfasts – with the specials offering more substantial meals such as steak pie with vegetables and chilli with rice, all of which was very reasonably priced. I decided on a ploughman’s lunch (with ham and cheese) and my friend opted for a ham and cheese omelette. Soon, a couple left the tea shop and informed us their table was now free, so we quickly made our way inside where our food was soon delivered to our new (and much warmer!) table. My ploughman’s was served beautifully with a lovely colourful salad, homemade coleslaw, apple chunks, grapes, plenty of ham and enough cheddar to satisfy a family of four for a week – all accompanied by a warm, home-baked bread roll, which was almost a loaf in itself! My friend’s omelette was also of giant proportions and served with a generous mixed side salad and coleslaw. Each vegetable in the salad was crisp and fresh, both the cheese and ham were of superior quality and both meals were thoroughly enjoyed. A great deal of effort is clearly put into the food which is delicious, well-priced (our bill came to under £17 with three hot drinks) and generously portioned. Unfortunately, despite Castle Acre being a recognised tourist hotspot, that effort isn’t equalled in the customer service department, which seemed only to be in place for the many local customers. The food would definitely entice me to return, but it’s worth remembering that good service costs nothing.
Church Gate Tea Rooms Willow Cottage, Stocks Green, Castle Acre, Norfolk PE22 2AE Tel: 01760 755551 Web: churchgatecastleacre.co.uk KLmagazine June 2011
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CafeReview
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Nelson House, Bergen Way, King’s Lynn, Norfolk Telephone: 01553 766578 OUTSTANDING QUALITY | PROFESSIONAL SERVICE 39
FOOD & DRINK
LocalTastes Selected by Charlotte Thorneycroft
CASTAWAYS FISH & CHIPS Under the Pier, North Promenade, Hunstanton There is nothing more traditional than fish & chips straight out of the paper whilst strolling along the sea front. Chunky fish and crisp batter make Castaways one of our favourites for traditional cod and chips. CASSIE’S RESTAURANT The Green, Hunstanton A good old fashioned sea side restaurant, clean and simple with honest tasty food. The perfect place for a fish, chip and mushy pea supper in the warm (especially on a rainy day), and even better followed by a cup of tea and cake. FRENCH’S FISH SHOP Quayside, Wells-next-the-Sea French’s has been open in Wells since 1923 so as you would imagine, nearly ninety years of frying has enabled them to perfect all of our fishy favourites. Occasionally there are different types of fish on offer such as skate for something a little different – Wells worth a visit!
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he sun is shining, the sky is blue, it’s time to head off to the seaside and enjoy that traditional British dish we all love – Fish & Chips. We all know nowhere does them better than here on the Norfolk coast so here are five of the best for you to try.
RIVER LANE FISH BAR River Lane, Gaywood It’s not on the coast but this little chip shop is a hidden gem tucked down a back lane behind the library in Gaywood. Classic chip shop menu, great prices and some of the most delicious fish and chips you will find with bags of flavour! 12:08
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Father’s Day Sunday Lunch Book Now - 19th June
Briarfields, Main Street, Titchwell, Hunstanton, Norfolk PE31 8BB. Tel: +44 (0)1485 210742. Web: www.briarfieldshotelnorfolk.co.uk Email: info@briarfieldshotelnorfolk.co.uk
KLmagazine June 2011
Eating Out The Ancient Mariner Inn Galley Restaurant Golf Course Road, Old Hunstanton 01485 536389
Congham Hall Fine dining Lynn Road, Grimston 01485 600250 www.conghamhallhotel.co.uk
Heacham Manor Hotel Varied fine dining Hunstanton Road, Heacham 01485 536030 www.heacham-manor.co.uk
The Old Vicarage Seasonal Local Food. The Street, Hemsby 01493 731557 www.theoldvicaragehemsby.co.uk
Bank House Brasserie Brasserie food, British Classics Bank House Hotel, King’s Staithe Square, Kings Lynn 01553 660492 www.thebankhouse.co.uk
The Crown and Mitre King’s Lynn’s only traditional riverside pub. Great English food using only fresh locally-sourced ingredients. Ferry Street, King’s Lynn 01553 774669
The Jolly Sailors Pub favourites Brancaster, Kings Lynn 01485 210314 www.jollysailorsbrancaster.co.uk
The Orange Tree New takes on pub classics and seafood High Street, Thornham 01485 512213 www.theorangetreethornham.co.uk
Best Western Knight’s Hill Hotel Garden restaurant South Wootton King’s Lynn 01553 675 566
The Crown Inn Gastro pub The Green, East Rudham 01485 528530 www.thecrowneastrudham.co.uk
Best Western Le Strange Hotel Golf Course Road, Old Hunstanton 01485 536389 The Blue Boar Inn Good locally sourced food Great Ryburgh, nr Fakenham 01328 829212 www.blueboarinn.ryburgh.co.uk
The Dabbling Duck Seasonal English Cuisine Abbey Road, Great Massingham 01485 520827 www.thedabblingduck.co.uk The Deer’s Leap 361 Wootton Road, South Wootton King’s Lynn 01553 671919 www.thedeersleap.co.uk
Bradley’s Restaurant and wine bar 10 South Quay, Kings Lynn 01553 600836 www.bradleysbytheriver.co.uk
Buckinghamshire Arms Traditional and modern local food Blickling Hall, Aylsham 01263 723133 www.bucks-arms.co.uk Caley Hall Hotel Gastro pub Old Hunstanton Road, Hunstanton 01485 533486 www.caleyhallhotel.co.uk
KLmagazine June 2011
Leziate Park Local English Cuisine Brow of the Hill, Leziate, King’s Lynn 01553 630393 www.leziatepark.co.uk The Lodge Old Hunstanton, Norfolk 01485 532896 www.thelodgehunstanton.co.uk Market Bistro English Cuisine 11 Saturday Market Place, King’s Lynn 01553 771483 www.marketbistro.co.uk The Neptune Inn and Restaurant 85 Old Hunstanton Road, Old Hunstanton 01485 532122 www.theneptune.co.uk
Brewer’s Fayre Premier Inn West Lynn, King’s Lynn 01553 772221 www.premierinn.com Briarfields Titchwell, Hunstanton 01485 210742 www.briarfieldshotelnorfolk.co.uk
The Kings Head Hotel Award-winning fine dining Great Bircham, King’s Lynn 01485 578265 www.thekingsheadhotel.co.uk
D’Inacios 9 Newmans Yard, Norwich Road, Fakenham 01328 851247 www.dinacios.co.uk The Gin Trap Inn Gastro Pub 6 High Street, Ringstead, Hunstanton 01485 525264 www.gintrapinn.co.uk The Hare Arms Varied fine dining Stow Bardolph, Kings Lynn 01366 382229 www.theharearms.co.uk
Palmers British Brasserie 45 High Street, Downham Market. 01366 388124 www.palmersrestaurant.co.uk The Riverside Restaurant English Cuisine 27 King Street, King’s Lynn 01553 773134 The Rose and Crown Traditional pub favourites Old Church Road, Snettisham 01485 541382 www.roseandcrownsnettisham.co.uk The Swan Inn South Wootton, King’s Lynn 01553 672084 Timbers Hotel & Restaurant A la carte and traditional pub food Lynn Road, Fincham 01366 347747 www.timbershotel.co.uk Titchwell Manor Traditional and modern infusion Titchwell, Kings Lynn 01485 210221 www.titchwellmanor.com The Yurt Restaurant Drove Orchards, Thornham Road, Thornham, Hunstanton 01485 525108 www.theyurt.co.uk
A taste of West Norfolk If we’ve missed your favourite local restaurant from this list, we’d love to hear from you – and so would our readers. Send the details to us at features@klmagazine.co.uk, and remember to pass on any fine dining tips, advice or recommendations as well! 41
LOCAL LIFE
Explorer Words: Charlotte Thorneycroft Photos: John Maxted
More commonly known locally as Wells, the town’s name originates from the many clear spring wells which used to be found in the area, some of which are still remain in properties in the town. The name has varied over time, becoming Wells-next-the-Sea and then Wells-on-Sea before the council decided ‘Wells-next-the-Sea’ would be the official name in 1956 – it’s been used ever since.
One of the most famous landmarks of the town is Wells harbour, with many moored boats and fishermen unloading the daily catch. Wells has been a port for over 700 years and during the 19th century most of the town’s employment had links to the quay. Shipbuilding was a big industry as were the associated trades of rope making and sail making in the town. Another reminder of Wells’ historic industries is the large granary on the quay built around 1903, and now converted into apartments. Its striking feature is the overhanging gantry which reaches out across the road. During the summer, Wells’ quay is a busy crabbing spot for children. 42
Wells has everything you’d expect from a British seaside town with the harbour shops offering fish and chips, ice cream, shellfish and amusement arcades. Whilst the beach (although a fair walk from the quay it’s well worth it) has miles of unspoilt golden sand with rolling dunes and pretty painted beach huts (above), which makes it very popular for artists and photographers. KLmagazine June 2011
Wells-next-the-Sea Near to Wells-next-the-Sea is the Holkham Hall Estate, home of the Coke family since the 1750s. A very popular visitor attraction, the house is open from April to October on Sunday, Monday and Thursday between 12pm and 4pm when visitors can see many of the grand rooms, including the famous Marble Hall (left). The fine acoustics in this magnificent room have made it the perfect venue for classical music recitals and opera performances which are hosted throughout the year. Outside, the park is occasionally used for open air music concerts, which in the past has seen stars such as Girls Aloud, Elton John and Status Quo perform. Open every day from April to October is the Bygone’s Museum and Exhibition of Farming Life, with over 4,000 items on display from toys to agriculture and household items to cars.
KLmagazine June 2011
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Explorer
Wells is an interesting mix of charming narrow streets with lots of beautiful architecture, mostly Georgian and Victorian. There are many small interesting shops, most of which are independent offering a range of products from antiques and collectables to modern gifts, homeware and clothing. One of the most attractive areas of the centre is The Buttlands, situated at the top of Staithe Street. A large green surrounded by lime trees, its name suggests this area may have been used as a place for archery practice years ago. There are many impressive properties bordering the green including The Crown Hotel, a 16th former coaching inn and Ware Hall House, the fascinating building that was moved over 100 miles by Miss May Savidge.
Although there are plenty of bed and breakfasts to be found dotted around Wells, none offer a more unique experience than that of The Albatros B&B, restaurant and bar on the harbour. But you won’t find your room in one of the buildings overlooking the quay – the Albatros is a Dutch Sailing ship moored in the harbour! Built in 1899, the Albatross had a busy career as a cargo ship until 1996 when it was transformed to carry passengers for educational purposes. The final commercial sailing trip took place in 2008 and the craft is now moored permanently in Wells quay, making it one of the oldest sailing ships still afloat.
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While spending the day in Wells, why not visit the world’s longest 10¼-inch narrow gauge steam railway? The Wells and Walsingham Light Railway (above) runs through four miles of scenic countryside from Wells to Walsingham, famous for its pilgrimage shrine. With both open and covered carriages this is a travel experience to be enjoyed by all members of the family.
KLmagazine June 2011
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Good Looks HEALTH & BEAUTY
with Elizabeth Dutton
Ridding your feet of unsightly skin... using fish!
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kin-eating fish? No, not, ‘Urgh’, but ‘they are fantastic!’ Yes, these special little fish can help make your feet look lovely! We’ll look at what they are and how you and your family and friends can benefit. FISH FOR MY FEET? If you have problems with your feet such as hard skin, psoriasis and eczema, then a great new treatment is at hand. Garra rufa or ‘doctor fish’ are small fish that are found in the river basins of the Northern and the central Middle East – and they help heal your feet! You place your feet in a tank of doctor fish and they gently nibble away areas of bad and dead skin – their meal is your treatment. And don’t worry – they don’t feed on healthy skin! You simply sit back and relax and enjoy the gentle ticking sensation. THE TREATMENT For best results we use the ‘medi-pedi’, a combination of treatments which includes: ! A relaxing 15-minute session with the doctor fish ! A professional nail cut and shape ! Hard skin removal ! A heel buff ! A soothing foot massage This combination will leave your feet feeling soft, relaxed and rejuvenated.
GARRA RUFA: the facts Garra rufa have becoming increasingly popular worldwide and in the UK as they are used to help treat clients suffering from various skin disorders. From the early 1800s these little fish were found to help skin conditions. They nibble away at dead and damaged skin – in essence, exfoliating them and leaving healthy tissue to grow underneath. In addition, their saliva contains diethanol which has healing properties. They are particularly helpful for psoriasis and eczema suffers.
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Treatment prices start from just £15, and you’ll only need to visit every 2-3 months. Sometimes people ask if hands can be treated too – and we’re delighted to say the answer is ‘Yes!’ IS IT SAFE? Due to the natural make up of the fish’s saliva, diseases are not transferred between feet. However, for added peace of mind, we make sure professionally-trained staff follow a strict hygiene routine. This means both you and our lovely ‘therapy fish’ can enjoy and benefit from all our treatments. NOTE: Avoid treatments that are being offered in back rooms and basements and where the fish are presented in a bucket – the practice is unhygienic, and the fish often die.
CTORY SPECIAL INTRODUO UNT! SC DI OFFER –10% 1
hspo Simply quote footfis treatment when you book your
ELIZABETH DUTTON is a qualified foot health care practitioner and trainer. She offers low level laser treatments from The Foot Care Centre in King’s Lynn and home visits are available. You’ll find her at The Foot Care Centre, 4B Tower Street, King’s Lynn, Norfolk PE30 1EJ. Full directions can be found on her website at www.thefootcarecentrekingslynn.co.uk You can call her on 01553 768661 (clinic) or 07973 230293 (mobile) or e-mail enquiries to enquires@thefootcarecentrekingslynn.co.uk. Training courses on the use of laser are also available – just ask for details.
3 top tips for Summer Feet! With the summer weather now upon us, now’s a good time to be remembering your feet! With the warmer weather and busy lifestyles your feet may ache at the end of the day, and even swell. Get relief by placing your feet in a bowl of warm water with 3-4 tablespoons of Epsom salts mixed in, and relax with a book, music or TV with for 15-20 minutes. To leave your feet feeling even more relaxed and fresher, dry them carefully and massage in a few drops of lemon oil. If you’re out and about in the sun, especially if you’re wearing flip flops or strappy sandals, remember to put sun cream on your feet – this is especially important for children. Now’s a good time to condition your nails ready for the beautiful range of coloured nail polish that is available this year. Carefully buff around the edges of the nails to remove loose/dead skin, and oil your nails regularly with a few drops of olive oil. To freshen your nails, mix a few drops of fresh lemon juice with warm water and let your toes soak for 3–4 minutes.
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KLmagazine June 2011
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Hugh Warren
Consultant General Surgeon MBBS, FRCS, MS, FRCS (Gen) Hugh is a Consultant General Surgeon specialising in laparoscopic gastrointestinal surgery, weight loss surgery and endoscopic procedures. These include laparoscopic gallbladder surgery, gastric banding, gastroscopy, colonoscopy and bile duct endoscopy as well as hernia repair surgery.
TheConsultingRoom
besity is a problem which now affects nearly a quarter of the adult population in the UK. Severe or morbid obesity, which is defined as a body mass index (BMI) of over 40 kg/M2, can be associated with other medical conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease and arthritis. Most people who are seriously obese have tried many ways of losing weight including diets and medication, but frequently they regain any weight which may have been lost. Surgery for morbid obesity Surgery is an option for people over the age of 18 who have a BMI over 40 or who have a BMI of 35 with medical problems as a result. Most operations can be performed using laparoscopic or ‘keyhole’ surgery which has the advantage of less scarring and pain than open surgery. At BMI The Sandringham Hospital we perform laparoscopic gastric banding procedures where an inflatable band or ring is placed around the top of the stomach. This has a constricting effect and limits the amount of food that can be eaten by
making the patient feel full after eating only a few mouthfuls. This feeling of fullness continues until the food passes through the constriction into the lower part of the stomach. The overall effect is to decrease the amount eaten which results in weight loss. The first consultation is with a qualified Dietitian who assesses the patient’s dietary history and suitability for surgical referral. The patient is then seen by a Consultant surgeon who assesses fitness for surgery and advises on the operation best suited for that person. If a gastric band is recommended then arrangements can be made for the patient to be admitted for surgery. The operation is performed under general anaesthetic using ‘keyhole’ surgery. Most patients stay in hospital for one or two days. Following discharge the band is left unfilled for six weeks to allow the tissues to heal. Patients then attend as an out-patient for the band to be filled with sterile saline solution. The amount of saline used depends on the individual and is assessed by performing a barium swallow x-ray. Follow up is with the dietitian and further band fills can be arranged as necessary. Formal follow-
up continues for at least one year after which patients are advised to join the local patient’s association which meets regularly for self support. How much weight is lost? The amount of weight lost after obesity surgery depends on the type of operation and the patient’s commitment to the new lifestyle and eating requirements after surgery. On average a patient would expect to lose between 0.5 and 1 Kg per week for the first 12 to 18 months after a gastric band operation. Thereafter, the weekly weight loss is usually less. The main goal is to achieve a weight loss that prevents, improves or resolves health problems which are caused by severe obesity For more information and details, you can call the BMI The Sandringham Hospital on 01553 769770
The Sandringham Hospital
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Gayton Road Health & Surgical Centre T: 01553 696886 W: www.dermavida.co.uk E: info@dermavida.co.uk
KLmagazine June 2011
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LOCAL LIFE
Celebrating West Norfolk’s first and foremost... West Norfolk is renowned for being quiet and relaxing partly because it is some distance from any big, bustling cities. Yet despite this we’ve had more than our fair share of ‘firsts’ in England which has put West Norfolk on the map:
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Britain’s first Prime Minister
ir Robert Walpole was born in Houghton Hall in 1676 to Robert and Mary Walpole. Although one of 17 children, by the time Walpole was studying at Cambridge, the eldest remaining son amongst his brothers and sisters died – leaving him heir to the family Estate. His plans to become a clergyman were abandoned and he returned to Houghton Hall to assist his father in the running of the Estate. His political career began in 1701 shortly after his father’s death, when following in his footsteps Robert was elected to represent the borough of Castle Rising. He soon moved his attentions to King’s Lynn where he continued to be annually re-elected until his resignation in 1742. Walpole, as a member of the powerful Whig party continued to have a varied career holding many political posts within government including Chancellor of the Exchequer and First Lord of the Treasury. Since the title of Prime Minister wasn’t made official until 1905 it’s hard to pinpoint the exact date when Walpole took on this role although it’s widely agreed he was the first. In 1721 Walpole was not only First Lord, but Chancellor of the Exchequer and Leader of the House of Commons making him the most important person in government. Some date his time as Prime Minister from this point because of this reason, although he still shared power with Lord Townshend. The later date of 1730 is also given as possibly the beginning of Walpole’s term as Prime Minister since Townshend retired in May of this year. By 1742 Walpole’s popularity had declined losing him the vote; he decided to resign from government. Following this event George II elevated him to The House of Lords as the 1st Earl of Orford. Robert Walpole died in 1745 in Houghton, having left his mark on the world of politics much of which has influenced the government as we know it today. We can thank Walpole for the most commonly recognised symbol of the government – 10 Downing Street! This property was offered as a gift to Walpole in 1732 by George II. Walpole accepted it only as the official residence of the First Lord of the Treasury (used as such by many of his successors), later becoming the official residence of the Prime Minister. 48
KLmagazine June 2011
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Britain’s first village signs
ecorative village signs depicting the history, heritage and legends of their village can be found up and down the country. There are over 3,000 welcoming signs across England gracing village greens and road side verges all with a story to tell. The tradition started here in West Norfolk nearly one hundred years ago. In 1912 King Edward VII commissioned the first village signs to be erected to identify villages around the Sandringham Estate. Babingly, Flitcham, Shernborne and Wolferton were all given a skilfully-carved sign depicting a legend from each of the respective villages. Babingly has probably one of the most unusual, representing St Felix who was said to have been saved from a shipwreck by Beavers – and as a sign of gratitude he made the beaver into a Bishop! Few other villages followed suit until after the war when the idea was championed again, this time mainly by the WI. Village signs began to appear everywhere and were often erected to mark memorable occasions such as the Jubilees and of course the Millennium. Norfolk still has the most village signs of any county, with more than 500 at the last count. Two hundred of these were carved by woodcarver (as well as art and woodwork master at Hammond’s Grammar School) Harry Carter from Swaffham who made the sign of his hometown and also created many for neighbouring counties too.
KLmagazine June 2011
The world’s first autobiography in English
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world first here in King’s Lynn! Living in the celebrity-obsessed modern world, it’s no surprise autobiographies make up such a large section of all the books in our libraries and bookshops today. But the very first autobiography in English was The Book of Margery Kempe, completed in 1438. Margery, born Margery Brunham in 1373 was the daughter of John Brunham, a merchant in the town and five times Mayor of King’s Lynn. She married John Kempe and had 14 children with him, although problems with her first birth caused the beginning of her spiritual visions. She became more devout as she encountered further visionary experiences, eventually leading to her taking a vow of chastity in 1411. After this she distanced herself from her husband and children making pilgrimages to holy lands including Rome, Jerusalem and Compostela. Margery worked with two scribes to whom she dictated the details of her spiritual conversations and pilgrimages. She also talks about her marriage and the book is as much a social insight as a spiritual one. Although essentially lost until an old manuscript of the book was found in 1936, The Book of Margery Kempe has been reprinted in many editions, the Penguin Classics version being closest to the original.
PLUS! How could we forget? In 1987 King’s Lynn became the first town centre to install CCTV cameras!
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HISTORY
ABOVE: Thomas Baines’ 1853 painting of the British settlers of 1820 landing in Algoa Bay
Thomas Baines: a real local hero He’s one of the most famous sons of King’s Lynn –at least he should be! Charlotte Thorneycroft goes on the trail of Thomas Baines
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ome of the finest images of colonial life in southern Africa and Australia in the 19th century were painted by an artist born in King’s Lynn in 1820. Thomas Baines (actually John Thomas Baines) was the son of a master mariner and started his working life as an apprentice to an ornamental coach builder, learning the art of heraldic painting on carriage panels under the guide of William Carr. His love of art was immense, and with an evident natural gift for painting he would spend much of his free time sketching and painting the marine life around the Norfolk coast. With an adventurous desire to see more 50
of the world, Baines embarked on a journey to Cape Town in 1842 aboard the ship ‘Olivia’ captained by family friend William Roome. While in Cape Town Baines created a living for himself as a travelling artist, pen always at the ready as he moved around the nearby regions. From scenery to portraits, nothing escaped Baines’ artistic eye as he continued to capture true to life happenings, quite unafraid to put himself at the forefront to get the best view of the action – even sketching native wars. It was this character, determination and fearlessness that soon made Baines famous in the region – although not yet in his home country. In 1851 he served as an official war artist
for the British Army during the Eight Frontier War, experiencing a number of close escapes as he strived to complete the best representations of the battle. On his return to England, Baines published the first of his works – Scenery and Events in South Africa – although people of King’s Lynn would probably have seen his work already, as his mother proudly displayed his canvasses in her front room window! In 1855 Baines was appointed official artist and storekeeper on the North West Australian Expedition under Augustus Gregory. For both the zeal with which he carried out his work and also his efforts on a special mission in which he was put in KLmagazine June 2011
ABOVE: A detail of a painting from 1857 that features Thomas Baines (centre) with Aborigines near the mouth of the Victoria River
charge to collect provisions, Baines was commended by all. Returning to England, he was elected a fellow of the Royal Geographical Society, the organisation who’d sponsored the expedition and he was also given the freedom of the Borough of King’s Lynn. In 1858 Baines was chosen to be the official artist and storekeeper, on David Livingstone’s Zambezi expedition. Unfortunately, a fallout with Livingstone’s brother Charles led to his early retirement from the expedition and he returned to Cape Town. Shortly afterwards he visited Zambezi again, this time with an ivory dealer named Chapman where Baines was sketched the recently-discovered (by Livingstone no less!) Victoria Falls. In 1864 Baines published Explorations in South-West Africa which was followed in 1868 by Chapman’s book Travels in the Interior of South Africa – both outlining the same expedition from different perspectives. After spending some time lecturing and painting in England Baines returned to Africa in 1868 and was asked to explore the goldfields of Tati. Back in Durban in 1875, whilst writing up his accounts of his latest gold explorations and planning his next trip Baines fell ill – fatally – with dysentery. President of the Royal Geographical Society, Sir Henry Rawlinson spoke of Thomas Baines in his Annual Address in 1875 as “a man of marked individuality of character, a born artist and explorer, a lover of wildlife, and skilled in all the shifts and resources of an explorer’s career. Few men were so well endowed with these and other qualifications for successful African travel, and perhaps none possessed greater courage and perseverance.” His paintings show scenes few other Europeans would have seen at the time and are an important part of geographical and social history. Much of Baines’ work is held in Zimbabwe since it was loaned to Southern Rhodesia in 1947 but a local support campaign is hoping it will soon be returned. KL
KLmagazine June 2011
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We can help you design your wedding down to the finest detail from choosing your invitations to dressing your bridesmaids. Plus, create your gift list with Debenhams and you will receive… r FREE £50 giftcard* r FREE planning tools and personalised website r 10% discount** on the gifts you didn’t receive r FREE gift insurance† r FREE delivery Call 01553 778503 to book an appointment. *You will receive the giftcard when you complete your gift list, minimum spend of £250 applies. **Discount applies to most departments. Selected concessions are not participating.†This covers the products on your gift list up to the value of £1,500.
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KLmagazine June 2010
Books
Six of the best to for June... Great food, great escapism and great writing – it’s the perfect recipe for spending those long evenings in some great company! The Mumsnet Rules Natasha Joffe and Justin Roberts When dot com gave birth to mumsnet it allowed new mums to weep in public, question the value of hamsters and find out how to make a natty Easter bonnet out of a KFC bargain bucket. Those Q&As have now been rescued from the dressing up box and lovingly crafted into book form, a welcome distraction from the everyday task of turning your sweaty toddler into a superhero.
Rick Stein’s Spain Rick Stein Padstow has the gorgeous Camel estuary, the ineffably beautiful Betjeman, and Rick Stein. Stein’s enquiring mind has turned him into one of our foremost ambassadors for the love of food and here, in a tantalisingly Technicolored Spain, he indulges us in a range of recipes and recollections culled from vibrant coastline and rugged Andalucian hill to enrich the best of our summer socials.
River of Smoke Amitav Ghosh Ghosh’s latest epic, winding its way from Mauritius to Canton via the relentless Indian Ocean and an exotic cast of traders, slaves and ne’er do wells, is likely to sit alongside Masefield’s small but perfectly formed Cargoes as a collection of words so rich as to remove you completely from this workaday world. One to kick off the shoes to and go ahh with admiration.
On His Majesty’s Service Allan Mallinson Mallinson’s microscopic research, fearlessly revealed in The Making of the British Army, bears fictional fruit here as it bursts into the ferocious battles between the Ottoman Empire and Russia in the early 19th century. Lieutenant Colonel Matthew Hervey of the 6th Light Dragoons is every bit as chirpy as Cornwell’s Sharpe as he throws himself into the hell of bloody conflict and national glory.
Wish You Were Here Graham Swift War is often someone else’s, but when the distant Iraqi conflict causes Jack Luxton to lose his equally remote brother it blunders into his personal space like a bear. The supreme storytelling that Swift brought to Waterland returns home in a tale that’s intimate and reassuring on the one hand and burning and severe on the other as it launches Jack into an uninvited journey with an inescapable and shocking conclusion.
The Psychopath Test Jon Ronson To quote War Games: the only winning move is not to play. If your master plan requires the faith of fools then the author of The Men Who Stare at Goats has a cracker. Ronson’s style (engagingly louche but really rather readable) sucks us in to a whirlpool of legitimacy which has us believing every word dripping from the mouths of those nice young men selling the king’s new clothes.
KLmagazine June 2011
David Learner
June
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Events
Our lovely little book group meets once again over the teacups in the store’s philosophy section at 4pm. This time it’s Ghost Light by Joseph O’Connor, a romantic story that begins in a 1907 Dublin theatre and ends in a war-torn London as its heroine searches once again for a forgotten fire. Come if you can – you’re always more than welcome!
David Learner is Assistant Manager for Waterstone’s at 137 Norfolk Street, King’s Lynn, Norfolk PE30 1AU Telephone: 01553 660111 53
LOCAL LIFE
ABOVE: Canon Chris Ivory of St Margaret’s, King’s Lynn
A question of faith...
Have you ever wondered what it’s like, caring for the spiritual welfare of a community? Debra Burgess-Lim talks to Canon Chris Ivory of St Margaret’s in King’s Lynn about faith, travel and flower arranging...
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he spiritual welfare of the people of King’s Lynn has for centuries centred on the Church of St Margaret’s, beginning in 1101 when Herbert de Losinga, first Bishop of Norwich, said to the men of King’s Lynn “at your request, I’ve begun to build a church at Lynn”. From that early time St Margaret’s has been an important part of the spiritual life of the town, standing imposingly in the heart of the community in the oldest part of the town. Today that spiritual welfare is ministered to by Canon Chris Ivory. Before he came to King’s Lynn Canon Ivory started out in Waltham Cross on the northeast edge of London. He was then based on the Isle of Dogs for some four years before being based in the Parish of Christchurch Streatham at the top of Brixton Hill for 14 years before moving to King’s Lynn. We recently spoke to him about his local ministry. 54
Q: What made you decide to come to King’s Lynn? A: After some 20 years in London, I thought it would be nice to be somewhere different and I started looking at various places. I hadn’t really picked King’s Lynn as a possibility until my spiritual director saw a vacancy in the Church Times and suggested I apply for it. I had a look round and had a strong feeling that it was the right place for me. Q: Have you ever worked outside of the church? A: In the two years before beginning theological college I did various things – I worked as a hospital porter to earn money for about four months, and volunteered in a night shelter for the homeless in Bradford for around six months. After that I worked for the British Council and Charterhouse in Southwark, near Southwark Cathedral helping out with parish work.
Q: What qualifications do you need to enter the Church? A: The qualifications depend on your age and experience, but generally if you’re under 30 you’ll need a degree in theology or the equivalent – but you’d also do training in pastoral work, leading worship and other vocational skills. Q: What’s been the highlight of your career? A: Among the most rewarding things are when people from your own congregation decide they want to be ordained, because that’s a sign that the Church you’re leading is inspiring and encouraging people to discover what God wants them to do. Q: Has that happened at St Margaret’s? A: Yes, there’s one person currently in training from St Margaret’s and I had two people who trained from my last parish. KLmagazine June 2011
“We must make sure people know we’re here if they need us and have the opportunity to get to know us...” Q: Where do you see yourself in five years? A: I’ll still be here! In the Church of England, once you have charge of a parish you can stay until you’re 70. The normal retirement age is now 68 (it used to be 65). However, 70 is the maximum age you can lead a Church – and of course, there’s still plenty you can help with when you’re drawing your pension! One of the problems with putting up the retirement age is that the Church will lose out on all the retired people who volunteer to help and support the Church. Q: What does a typical day involve for you? A: It’s difficult to think of a typical day but generally I start off on the computer dealing with messages and letters. Morning Prayer begins at 8.30am, and most days I don’t finish before 10pm. Running the Church is effectively like running a small business with a turnover of nearly £250,000 a year. A large part of my time is spent with the bereaved and preparing for funerals. Quite a lot of time is spent organising and preparing for services – I spend about five hours a week writing sermons. I spend time supporting colleagues, and then there are the volunteers who run the café or the shop or help with services or arrange the flowers – I need to keep in touch with all these people. I’m also involved in a number of nonChurch activities. I’m a Governor of Whitefriars School, a Trustee of the Purfleet Trust (which helps people who are homeless in the area), I’m Chair of Burkett Homes, the Alms Houses in Queen Street, and Chair of EAST, which is a charity providing social care for people affected by HIV and AIDS throughout Norfolk. All these things might come in a day’s work and sometimes it’s a challenge to fit everything in! Q: What do you like to do in your spare time? A: When I have any spare time, my main interest is music and theatre, so I often go to London to the opera, ballet, theatre or musical shows. I used to play the organ – but I’m out of practice now and my hands are a bit stiff with arthritis. Once a month we have a concert here in the Vicarage – it’s mainly a gathering of friends who like to make music, and people that want to listen. I usually participate in some way.
KLmagazine June 2011
Q: When did your interest in flower arranging start? A: I first did flower arranging a long time ago, and I remember going to a demonstration as a teenager. At St Margaret’s they let me do them once or twice a year. I really enjoy it – it’s creative and completely different from what I normally do. Q: Is your love of travel leisure-based or is it encouraged by your work? A: I really enjoy travelling – my main adventure was when I took a sabbatical around 10 years ago. I went to Ghana for two months to work with a missionary with the United Society for the Propagation of the Gospel. I chose Ghana because there were many Ghanaians in my previous congregation, and they gave me plenty of contacts so I had the chance to travel all over ther country. I established a link with a Church in the northwest of Ghana in a place called Wa – a small congregation, which my parish continues to support. When I came to King’s Lynn I discovered St Margaret’s had supported a parish right in the northeast of Ghana – in a place called Yelwoko – so when I had another sabbatical I went back to Ghana, travelling on buses, staying with old friends and making new ones. I’ve also been to South Africa a few times, where I have friends from my previous
parish – I like visiting hot countries as I don’t really like the cold weather! Q: Tell me something about yourself that would surprise us. A: I like doing practical things – I’ve done a bit of organ building in the past and I’ve made a number of different instruments including the Racket, which I made from a kit. Q: What inspires you? A: A number of people have inspired me, including the Vicar I had as a teenager who was a very inspiring preacher, and my University Chaplain, who became a Bishop. Some books have been particularly inspiring – it’s difficult to narrow it down but obviously the Bible has inspired me the most. Q: In what way do you think the Church encourages new members to join the congregation? A: I hope we respond to people on their own terms. I hope we’re friendly and that our services aren’t too intimidating – we try to make it easy for people to know what’s going on and to join in. Many people come to Church following bereavement and find caring people and a place where they can remember those who have died. Then perhaps they can begin to see some kind of meaning in their experience. Q: With diminishing congregations, over the years, should the Church be more actively involved in spreading the word? A: I think we must make sure people know we’re here if they need us and have the opportunity to get to know us. The points of contact are often weddings, baptisms and funerals, but also other kinds of social contacts and functions where people meet. All ways of making relationships are important. Sometimes people come into church and talk about the architecture but the conversation changes to their faith. Each person comes with their point of view and the important thing is to respond to them on their own terms and to provide opportunities for them to seek God in their own way – St Margaret’s is open every day all day to encourage people to visit. Q: What’s it like to be a minister in King’s Lynn? A: It’s so varied – one time I’m with someone in a flat in North Lynn, another with the Mayor. It’s such an amazing town – the variety and wealth of history and culture here is wonderful. KL 55
ARTS
Capturing the natural beauty of Norfolk... She’s travelled the world and exhibited everywhere from Egypt to Sweden, but her greatest inspiration comes from a lot closer to home. Charlotte Thorneycroft meets local artist Shirley Carnt
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nyone who’s the pleasure to attend one of Shirley Carnt’s exhibitions will know she can – and she can very well! Shirley Carnt has had an interest in art, particularly painting since her childhood, but when it came to the crunch, her parents decided a career in law would be more suitable. But as anyone with a creative mind will recognise, flair and a talent for artistic creation can’t be subdued for long, and Shirley soon left her studies to enjoy the painting she loved. Wanting to further her newly-chosen career path she studied for some time at St Martin’s Art College in London before
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pursuing her other love – travel. It was after an eventful trip to Egypt that Shirley had her first major break in the art world. Having spent a great deal of her time on her trip sketching, Shirley created a portfolio of paintings from her Egyptian travels capturing the essence of the landscapes around the country. She was asked to display these in the cinema foyer at the premiere of Laurence of Arabia starring Peter O’Toole. To Shirley’s delight and surprise, every one sold. Still a keen traveller, Shirley’s work from her adventurous journeys has seen her exhibit all over the world from the Bahamas to New York, Paris and London. “There’s so much more that can be said in
KLmagazine June 2011
ABOVE: A detail from Shirley Carnt’s beautiful painting End of the Day, Wells-next-the-Sea
ABOVE: Shirley’s near abstract landscape Poppyfields and Mustard, Kelling
KLmagazine June 2011
a painting of a scene rather than a photograph,” says Shirley, who always has the watercolours and sketchbook at the ready for views that catch her eye. But wherever her travels take her around the world, Shirley always returns to paint the countryside she holds most dear to her heart, that of her own native county, Norfolk. “Norfolk is a most beautiful county with so much variation in landscape it’s hard not to draw inspiration from it,” she explains. “From one county I’m able to create scenes of dense woodland, colour-filled poppy fields, the cows grazing on the marshes and the great expanse of the Norfolk coast – we’re blessed to have such diversity.” Of all of these magical landscapes, one has always been a favourite of Shirley’s for both subject and as a setting in which to practice her work. “The beach has – and always will have – a special appeal for me. It’s so tranquil and peaceful away from busy life. There’s no better place where one can truly relax with unspoilt nature surrounding them at every glance. Sitting on a creek on an empty beach with only the odd passing bird breaking the silence is utterly magical.” Although whilst travelling, most of Shirley’s sketch work is done in watercolour, her chosen media for painting is oil, which provides a unique depth to the large, open skies which frequent her pictures. “Paintings are far more than the colours and brush strokes on the canvas,” she explains. “There has to be feeling entwined within the picture of a moment in time that captures the atmosphere. Whether it’s the unease of a storm stirring into force on the horizon, or the building excitement of a sunrise through the trees, there’s a catalyst that should draw one into the image as though they were there.” Until 5th June Shirley’s work can be viewed in her own studio in Thornham via Norfolk Open Studios Programme 2011. After this date viewing is strictly by appointment (visit the website for further details – below). From 7th to 18th September Shirley will be exhibiting a selection of her paintings at Brancaster Staithe Village Hall which will be open daily for viewing. The paintings will include new landscape scenes of coastline and countryside around Norfolk as well as oils from her recent travels including Oman and Portugal. ! For more information on Shirley Carnt and her work visit www.shirleycarnt.com
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SETTING THE STANDARD FOR QUALITY TREATED TIMBER 58
KLmagazine June 2011
Review
Christine Glass
THEATRE
BEAUTY AND THE BEAST Watlington Village Hall 1st–4th June (7.30pm, with a Saturday matinee at 2.30pm) 2010 was been a great year for the Watlington Players, winning two NODA Best Production awards. The first – Best Drama of 2010 – was for their performance of Billy Liar and the Players’ version of Seven Brides for Seven Brothers achieved the Best Technical Performance Award for ‘conversion of a village hall, nightly, to a fully-functional theatre.’ The next classic performed by the amateur dramatics group is Disney’s interpretation of Beauty and the Beast from 1st–4th June. Follow Belle, a pretty country girl as she meets the ferocious Beast who holds her captive until eventually they learn to love each other. With all the drama, excitement and romance you expect of a Disney fairytale, with a top cast and amazing costumes, this is a must see show for all.
FESTIVAL KING’S LYNN FESTIVAL 17th–30th July West Norfolk’s most prestigious festival of the arts is coming soon with some spectacular performances in this year’s line up Tickets are already selling fast as top names from around the globe are set to entertain King’s Lynn audiences at various venues around the town. This year’s highlights include New Zealand soprano Hayley Westenra (above), the Czech National Symphony Orchestra and Swedish-born harpsichord virtuoso Carole Cerasi. Author Max Jones commemorates the 100th anniversary of Captain Scott’s fateful Terra Nova expedition and there’ll be a Literary Dinner featuring two authors. For full details of what to see, when and where visit www.kingslynnfestival.co.uk to request a brochure or to make a booking contact 01553 764864.
SEEN IT? READ IT? HEARD IT? Let us know and we’ll share it with our readers. Even better, if you’ve got a forthcoming publication or release you’d like to publicise, e-mail the details to us at features@klmagazine.co.uk KLmagazine June 2011
MUSIC
GREAT POPPY CONCERT King’s Lynn Academy Sunday, 12th June (matinee at 3pm, evening at 7pm) Celebrating 90 years of the Royal British Legion, the Middleton branch in association with the King’s Lynn Players proudly present a music-hall style variety show. With the emphasis on war and remembrance the evening will include singing, dancing, sketches and comedy. Wartime period costume is encouraged but optional. Tickets £10 – contact Lilian Fisher for more information on 01553 841852.
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ADVICE
MotoringLaw
with Charlotte Winchester of MCP
CHARLOTTE WINCHESTER is a Solicitor in the criminal department of Metcalfe, Copeman and Pettefar based in King’s Lynn. She has been practicing the local courts since 2003. She specializes in criminal defence work and among her areas of expertise she represents and advises clients on all types of motoring offences
Q
Q
A
A
I have been summonsed to Court for driving whilst using a hand held mobile telephone. What is the likely sentence I can expect?
This is a fixed penalty offence of 3 penalty points and a fine. It should be noted that you can be guilty of this offence even if you are stationary at the side of the road with your handbrake on, but the engine running. The essence of driving is having control over the movement of the vehicle.
Q A
Are there any defences to driving without insurance?
Driving with no insurance is a strict liability offence so the only real defence is to argue that either you were not driving or that you were insured. However, if you were using the vehicle in the course of your employment you could have a defence if you prove the vehicle did not belong to you, that it was being used in the course of your employment and that you didn’t know that the vehicle wasn’t insured. The other angle is to argue special reasons for not imposing penalty points by proving you were misled by the insurance company or someone else as to the insurance cover being in place. If convicted of driving with no insurance you face a penalty of 6-8 penalty points or a possible discretionary ban and a fine of up to £5,000.
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I forgot to notify DVLA that I had sold my vehicle – what are the consequences, if any? You remain liable for the vehicle until the DVLA records have been updated, so you could be held responsible for any future motoring offences committed in the vehicle. It is therefore extremely important that you notify DLVA immediately of the exact date of the sale.
The questions and answers on this page are intended to provide general information only. Every effort is made to ensure that the law is correct at the time of publication but no duty of care is assumed to any person and no liability accepted for any omission or inaccuracy. Each case is different and so you should always seek our specific advice.
MCP Solicitors 28/32 King Street, Kings Lynn, Norfolk, PE30 1HQ Tel: 01553 778101 Fax: 01553 766807 Web: www.mcp-law.co.uk
KLmagazine June 2011
ABOVE: A new arrival at the West Norfolk RSPCA Rehoming Centre at Eau Brink looks forward to a new home
The future for animals in West Norfolk looks bright The West Norfolk Branch of the RSPCA is undergoing a complete transformation this year. Eric Secker meets Penny Skate, who’s dedicated over 30 years to the care and long-term welfare of local animals
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f you you suggested Penny Skate deserved a medal, she’d almost certainly request you sponsored a kennel instead. Animals are her enduring passion and her life’s work. She’s the driving force behind the West Norfolk RSPCA Rehoming Centre at Eau Brink. She visits vets, she assists in the cattery, she walks dogs, she takes enquiries, she rehomes animals, and helps out at the shop in Hunstanton on Saturdays. Oh, and she doesn’t get paid. However, Penny would be keen to point out that there’s a KLmagazine June 2011
whole team working alongside her and without all of them working together, the Centre would cease to exist. All that hard work and dedication is now coming to fruition as the centre undergoes a complete transformation as virtually everything is replaced for the improved care of the residents. We’re on the way to one of Penny’s weekly visits to the vets. Coming with us is a 10-month-old chocolate Labrador called Toby, a Yorkshire Terrier called Thimble and a ferret called Rosie – and they’re a good 61
LOCAL LIFE cross section of the animals that come into the centre’s care: one found abandoned by a member of the public, one coming from the dog warden and one coming from an owner who simply couldn’t care for them any longer. Just last month a 10% rise in complaints of animal cruelty was announced by the RSPCA (although that’s hopefully because the public are becoming more vigilant), but not every animal under the centre's care is the victim of mistreatment. “With the current economic situation, we’re getting lots of enquiries from people who simply can’t afford their pets anymore,” Penny says. “It’s not that they don’t care – many of them are devastated – but sadly their pets can’t be part of what amounts to fundamental changes in peoples’ lives and circumstances.” While the dogs are on their way to be neutered (general RSPCA policy), Rosie is being given a general health check. Her owner hasn’t been found in the last seven days, so her new home (at least for the time being) is Eau Brink. The Rehoming Centre itself has been home to Penny and her team for some 12 years now, and covers a large area including King’s Lynn, Wisbech, Downham Market, Swaffham and Castle Acre. The branch also has two shops – in King’s Lynn and Hunstanton – and a highly-praised website, which generates some 50% of the branch’s enquires and can boast over 20,000 hits a week. “When dogs arrive they’re usually terrified,” explains Penny, “so our first task is get them settled in and used to the kennel staff. Once they’ve had an assessment, we will get them ready for rehoming, every dog is neutered or spayed where medically possible, vaccinated and microchipped. We’ve become very experienced at matching animals with people, and very successful at finding suitable homes for them.” As you might imagine, it’s a big operation, but whereas most RSPCA branches have a team of paid employees, West Norfolk is quite unique in that all the team are volunteers apart from the kennel staff (which is a role not well suited to be undertaken on a volunteer basis). “The fact we’re all volunteers is really important,” says Penny. “Every £1 we make is profit and it all goes to the animals. People in King’s Lynn are very supportive and helpful. People know we’re all volunterers so they genuinely want to help. Whereas other branches are limited by budgets, we can always say ‘yes, we can do that’ – because we want to. It would be terrible to be paid a salary and have to say ‘no, we can’t afford to do that.’” The building LEFT: Penny Skate with Bonnie, a 2-year-old Staffordshire Bull Terrier waiting for a home.
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KLmagazine May 2011
work at Eau Brink is already well underway, and is expected to be completed towards the end of the year. Already close to completion is a new rabbit house with specially-designed pens, a dedicated cat unit complete with a purpose-built kitchen and an Isolation Block with spacious kennels, outdoor areas and a large grassed enclosure for the residents to run around in. Even here, you can see that the animals come first – the branch does need a ‘proper’ office, but the team are all insistent they’ll make do until the animals are catered for. “I’ve always had a great love of animals,” says Penny. “This is my life's work. My dream is to leave the new Rehoming Centre as a legacy for the future – an environment built specially for the care and rehoming of local animals. It really is a dream come true.” The work and dedication of Penny Skate and her team is truly inspiring – and she genuinely deserves a medal. So we’d best get sponsoring those kennels! KL
UPDATE! Since this feature was prepared, we thought you might like to know that Toby, Rosie, Thimble and Annabel have all be rehomed. Bonnie, the dog pictured opposite with Penny is still looking for a home.
ABOVE: Just a couple of hours after this picture was taken, Terry was off to his new home
How to help There are several ways in which you can support the work of the West Norfolk RSPCA Rehoming Centre: DONATE: Donations are always welcome at the shops on Norfolk Street, King’s Lynn and Greevegate, Hunstanton. If you don’t have any unwanted items, financial donations of any size are the lifeblood of the centre. SPONSOR: Sponsoring a kennel is a great idea – whether to promote a business or in memory of someone. Just ask for details. VOLUNTEER: If you have a few hours to spare, there are plenty of ways for you to volunteer at the centre – you can walk the dogs, wash their bowls, help in the office, work in the gardens, undertake general maintenance work. There’s always something that needs doing! ABOVE: Toby the labrador looks forward to his overnight stay at the vets, Rosie the ferret gets a health check, and Annabel the stray cat waits for a new home. The work at the Rehoming Centre is progressing well with the new Rabbit Unit (above right) and Isolation Block (above) already complete.
KLmagazine May 2011
You can contact the West Norfolk RSPCA on 01553 618889 or visit the website at www.westnorfolkrspca.org.uk 63
ON SCREEN June 2011
love film. love luxe. The local cinema experience for serious movie fans
! X-Men First Class ! Kung Fu Panda 2 ! Potiche ! Hanna ! Water for Elephants ! Meet a Tall Dark Stranger ! Attack the Block ! My Dog Tulip ! Outside the Law ! Vidal Sassoon: the Movie ! Diary of a Wimpy Kid 2 ! The Messenger ! Julia’s Eyes
As lavish as something from the golden days of Hollywood, The Luxe Cinema is an elegantly stylish film lover’s delight. The Luxe Lounge bar sets the mood for a social drink with friends whilst the cinema itself offers luxurious and spacious leather sofas and armchairs – including a selection of Premier Sofas with waitress service! Allowing moviegoers to sit back and relax in true style, enjoying a glass of wine or a coffee whilst watching a wide programme of mainstream, arthouse and classic films. If you love film, you’ll love Luxe.
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My KL
LOCAL LIFE
World War remnants or local modern art?
Ich bin ein King’s Lynner?
Following your plans to feature unusual local buildings and structures, I’m hoping you and your readers will find this picture interesting. It was taken on my mobile phone at Narford Bridge. I’ve ‘Googled’ the bridge and Narford, but can’t find anything about these. I think they’re vehicle or tank obstacles but can’t find any similar pictures. If they are, why Narford? Or were there more elsewhere and these are the only ones left? Or are they a piece of modern art? It would interesting to know, and I’m sure one of your readers will have the answer. MALVIN BRIDGEMAN
Congratulations on your excellent magazine – it seems every month I learn something new about King’s Lynn. Perhaps you can help solve an ongoing mystery that’s had me and my family stumped for ages. Why does King’s Lynn have a John Kennedy Road? I’ve tried asking eveyone I can think of and looked at loads of websites, but no one seems to have the answer. Was it named in honour of the President in 1963 after his death, or is there a Kennedy connection to the town that’s been lost in the years since the 1960s? I’d really love to know. ANDREW CHAPMAN
KL magazine: OK readers, it’s over to you! Do you know what these mysterious structures are and why they’re at Narford Bridge? We’re looking forward to hearing from you!
KL magazine: Thanks for that, Andrew – we have to confess we don’t know either. Hopefully one of our readers knows the answer to this one!
CONTACT US: KL magazine, 18 Tuesday Market Place, King’s Lynn, Norfolk PE30 1JW KLmagazine June 2011
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LOCAL LIFE
Michael Middleton’s
WildWestNorfolk
R
egular readers of my column will know that I’m a mild-mannered kind of fellow, and that it takes a lot to raise my normal undercollar temperature. However, there are times (believe it or not) when I am simply lost for words and resign myself to the fact that either I’m getting to ‘that’ age or that there’s something seriously amiss with the world and everyone in it. My dentist would undoubtedly agree with me. I bumped into him at the Corn Exchange a few days ago, and even the evening’s entertainment (which was excellent) couldn’t take his mind off the prospect of having to replace all the tiles in his surgery. It seems he has been ‘advised’ to do this in the interests of public safety. It’s not the tiles themselves that present the danger, you understand – it’s the grout between them. I seriously doubt whether anyone in the history of dentistry (which goes back to the dawn of time) has ever caught anything from tile grout, but that doesn’t seem to matter these days. In my experience, there are plenty more things to be worrying about when you visit the dentist than a bit of old tile grout, but it’s a strange world we live in. I was still thinking about this at the weekend when I was having a welldeserved lunch with one of the neighbours after having spent a morning digging up a load of concrete (don’t ask). Part of our well-earned feast involved the hearty demolition of a medium-sized bag of crisps. Having exhausted the subjects of incinerators, the alternative voting system and whether Dr Who was better when the monsters were made out of bubble-wrap, our attention was drawn to the considerable amount of information
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printed on the back of the crisp packet. There was a host of nutritional information, which must mean something to someone, although much of it was indecipherable to us. We were aware we were eating some mono-unsaturated fats, but whether that was a Good Thing or a Bad Thing wasn’t entirely clear. More interesting were the GDA percentages, not least because they were helpfully colour-coded to aid our understanding – green, which we took to mean ‘good’; yellow, which we took to mean ‘don’t have too much’; and red, which we thought was probably colour-speak for ‘eat at your own risk.’ Since it appeared we were eating rather a lot of our Guideline Daily Allowance of salt for the day, we tried to work it out how much salt we could safely look forward to putting on our dinner. And that’s where it all went to a bag of spanners. The nutritional information was based on 100g, the GDA allowances were based on a 40g serving, and the offending bag of crisps in question actually contained 140g. So, the salt content was 6% of our GDA – assuming we’d eaten 40g, which would be err.... about a third of the bag. And a bit. I think. Who on earth eats a third of a bag (and a bit) of crisps? In my experience, crisps get eaten on a single crisp basis, a handful, or the entire bag. You wouldn’t think it was too much to ask what nutritional goodness you’re getting if you eat the whole bag or limit yourself to a
single crisp, would you? Well, it is. If you want to know how much of your daily salt allowance the bag contains, you have to work out how many 40g ‘servings’ there are and then times that by the percentage of the GDA. Great – if it wasn’t bad enough that I have to go shopping with a monster list, a pen and a fistful of reward cards and vouchers, I now have to take my digital weighing scales and a calculator. Needless to say, we hastily scoffed the remaining crisps (along with .075% of our GDA) and got back to breaking things up with big hammers. Since then, I’ve been asking everyone I know if they actually use the information printed on food packaging at any point between buying and eating – and no one does. So it’s over to you, dear readers. Do any of you worry about your GDAs on a daily basis, or is your only crisp-related problem whether to have cheese and onion or salt and vinegar? And while we’re on the subject, have you ever caught anything from grouting tiles?
KLmagazine June 2011
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