ISSN 2044–7965
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ISSUE 99 DECEMBER 2018 PRICELESS
magazine
WEST NORFOLK | NORTH NORFOLK | COASTAL
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welcome
W
e've all got our favourite ways of celebrating the festive season. For some people it's visiting one of our magnificent stately homes fully decorated and beautifully lit, while for others it's catching a glimpse of the Royal Family at Sandringham on Christmas morning. And all of us enjoy a traditional pantomime at this time of year. Happily, all three are covered on the following pages, giving you and your family plenty of opportunities to enjoy a happy Christmas. But it wasn't always like that, of course. On page 26 of this month's issue, Alison Gifford takes a look at how local people 'celebrated' Christmas during the Commonwealth - when shops and markets were legally required to stay open on 25th December, soldiers
patrolled the streets seizing any festive food they discovered, and many churches were locked to prevent them holding Christmas services. People still celebrated the birth of Jesus Christ, but it was a rather subdued (and often clandestine) affair. And despite the ban on the holiday being lifted in 1660 when Charles II was crowned, the debate about the 'excesses' of the festivities has never really diminished - encouraging us to think of others and engage with the real meaning of Christmas. Which makes it the perfect time to reflect on the work of The Purfleet Trust, the local charity that's been supporting homeless people for over 25 years especially when you consider that Shelter currently estimates there are over 100,000 homeless children in Britain. You can read about their
important work on page 100. And while plenty of animals take the opportunity to hibernate or escape to warmer climes at this time of year, there are still plenty that need a helping hand at the moment. Wendy Warner has plenty of ideas for keeping your garden birds healthy and well-fed over winter (page 94) and the RSPCA Wildlife Centre at East Winch (page 90) always has its hands full, caring for around 12 animals every day of the year. However you celebrate, we'd like to wish you a very happy Christmas - and we'll see you again next year!
Eric Secker EDITOR
KL magazine
COVER IMAGE
meet the team
Custom House King’s Lynn by Ian Ward
MANAGING DIRECTOR Laura Dunn
CONTENT MANAGER
Sarah Woonton
EDITOR
Eric Secker
GRAPHIC DESIGN
Amy Phillips Lisa Barrett
ADVERTISING Jessica Smith
PHOTOGRAPHY Ian Ward
ADMINISTRATION
CONTRIBUTORS
DISTRIBUTION
Clare Bee Alison Gifford Abi Brown Sylvia Steele
Nicola Back
Pete Tonroe
contact
18 Tuesday Market Place King’s Lynn PE30 1JW 01553 601201 info@klmagazine.co.uk
KL magazine is published monthly by KL Publications Ltd. The magazine cannot accept responsibility for unsolicited submissions, manuscripts and photographs. While every care is taken, prices and details are subject to change and KL magazine takes no responsibility for omissions or errors. We reserve the right to publish and edit any letters. All rights reserved.
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contents
6 8 14 20
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26 34 42
94 KLmagazine December 2018
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56 66
WHAT’S ON This month’s forthcoming events CHRISTMAS AT SANDRINGHAM How the Royal Family celebrates WINTER WONDERLAND Christmas at Blickling Hall IT'S TIME FOR THE PANTOMIME Sleeping Beauty at the Corn Exchange WHEN CHRISTMAS WAS BANNED King's Lynn during the Commonwealth CHANGING THE FACE OF KING'S LYNN Local architect Desmond Waite NORFOLK'S OWN DOWNTON ABBEY The transformation of Bylaugh Hall THEN AND NOW How our area used to look A RECORD-BREAKING SOUND The growth of Rock Choir FASHION Inspiration from our local boutiques
DECEMBER 2018
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80 86 90 93
94 100 106 110 114
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FOOD AND DRINK Reviews, recipes & recommendations A FIRST-CLASS CHEF, A NO.1 BEER Galton Blackiston brews up a treat FILM MAKER JOSH TRETT Bringing a local legend to the screen CARING FOR OUR ANIMALS RSPCA Wildlife Centre at East Winch YOU AND YOUR PETS With London Road Veterinary Centre DECEMBER IN THE GARDEN Expert advice with Wendy Warner
THE PURFLEET TRUST Helping the homeless for over 25 years IN TUNE WITH TONY EDWARDS The local man who handcrafts guitars ART FROM THE SOUL The inspirational work of Naomi Lowry MICHAEL MIDDLETON Truths behind the myths of Christmas
THE LOCAL GIN WITH A DIFFERENCE Enjoying a taste of Fen Spirits 5
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Diarydates LOCAL EVENTS IN DECEMBER
Throughout December SNOW WHITE & THE SEVEN DWARVES AT THE PRINCESS THEATRE One of the best loved pantos, Snow White and The Seven Dwarves, comes to the Princess Theatre in Hunstanton this Christmas. The beautiful Snow White, played by Helen Farrell, runs away to the forest to escape the clutches of the evil Wicked Queen who is jealous of her beauty. Deep in the forest she meets seven new friends who, with the help of Prince John, join together to combat the evil forces of the Wicked Queen. Returning this year is Mervyn Frances as Dame Clara, aided and abetted in the mirth and mayhem by Muddles, played by Andy Eastwood. With spectacular sets
and sparkling costumes this show promises to keep up the tradition of a ‘must see’ for all the family. Tickets: Adults £17.00, Children £14.00, Concessions £14.00, Family Ticket of 3 £42.00, Family Ticket of 4 £55.00 (Family Tickets must include at least 1 Child) Groups of 10 or more - 1 in 10 goes free For more information and to buy tickets, go to www.princesshunstanton.co.uk.
WHEN: From Saturday 1st December 2018 to Tuesday 1st January 2019
WHERE: Princess Theatre, 13 The Green, Hunstanton PE36 5AH
13th CAROLS AT THE MINSTER If you’re not already feeling festive then you will after a carol service at the stunning St Margaret’s Church. The King’s Lynn Male Voice Choir will host the magical event, with special guest appearances from soloist Julie Bjerrgaard and clarinet ensemble The Norfolk Reeds. Tickets: £12 and are available from True’s Yard Museum, Geoffrey Collings & Co and Artertons.
WHEN: Thursday 13th December (7.30pm) WHERE: King’s Lynn Minster, 16 Church St, King's Lynn PE30 5EB
Throughout December CANDLELIGHT TOURS AT HOLKHAM HALL A magical opportunity to see the magnificent state rooms at Holkham Hall adorned with opulent Christmas decorations and beautiful flickering candlelight. See the wonderful decorations, learn about how they were created and find out the inspiration behind each room setting. The pièce de résistance for this year’s hall display is in the Statue Gallery where there will be a full size parterre garden, inspired by Italian gardens of the 18th century. Designed by landscape gardener Lucy Roberts, the display will feature a wintry scene with the formal terraces laid out with box hedging, tall cypress trees, classical sculptures and wildlife. For more information and to book tickets visit www.holkham.co.uk.
WHEN: Various dates throughout December see the website
8th&9th
A TASTE OF CHRISTMAS WITH WALSINGHAM FARM SHOP Join Walsingham Farm Shops for a taste of Christmas at their shops in Walsingham and Heacham. The farm shops will host a fantastic selection of local producers throughout the weekend with real ale, gin, cider, chutney and preserves, local cheese and of course a huge selection of cooked meats to sample from their butcheries and an array of sampling from their homemade deli range. Mulled wine and soup will also be available! For more information about Walsingham Farm shops visit the website www.walsingham.co.
for details
WHEN: Saturday 8th and Sunday 9th December (10am-4pm) WHERE: Walsingham: Guild Street, Little Walsingham NR22 6BU
WHERE: Holkham Hall, Wells-next-the-Sea NR23 1AB
& Heacham: Norfolk Lavender, Lynn Road, Heacham PE31 7JE
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PICTURES: For many years, KL magazine photographer Ian Ward has captured some remarkable images of the Royal Family celebrating Christmas at Sandringham – and his portrait of the new Duchess of Sussex (opposite) was one of only 250 photographs chosen from around the country for the recently-published book The Crown From the Crowd
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Celebrating a royal traditional Christmas
Every family gets together at Christmas, but only one celebrates the festive season at Sandringham House...
C
hristmas is a time for families, and it's something of an honour that the most famous family in the country (if not the world) chooses to celebrate the festive season in this beautiful corner of Norfolk. The trinity of Royal Family, Christmas and Sandringham have become a timehonoured and much-loved tradition, but it may come as something as a surprise to learn that it wasn't always that way. In fact, it wasn't until the late
KLmagazine December 2018
1980s that the Queen decided to spend Christmas at Sandringham - when work started repairing the ancient castle at Windsor, which had been Her Majesty's traditional festive retreat until then. But Sandringham has always been very special to the Royal Family. The Queen's grandfather broadcast his first radio Christmas message from Norfolk and was very fond of the house. “Dear old Sandringham,” wrote George V, “the place I love better than anywhere else in the world.”
There's obviously something very special about Sandringham. The Queen's father spent several childhood Christmases on the estate, writing to his mother that “I have always been so happy here and I love the place." George VI actually died at Sandringham, and rather poignantly the Queen now remains on the estate until the anniversary of her father’s passing and her accession on the 6th February. Elizabeth II gave her first televised Christmas message from Sandringham 9
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in 1957, and the family still gathers around the television at 3pm on Christmas Day to watch the broadcast – although it's believed Her Majesty leaves the room at that point. A fascinating insight into how the Royal Family celebrates Christmas was recently provided by former personal chef to Queen Elizabeth II Darren McGrady. He revealed that the Queen is given two options for each course for every meal over the festive period (except for Christmas Day when a traditional turkey dinner is served) and the only forbidden ingredient, at the Queen’s request, is garlic. Even the corgis have individual menus, usually involving a rotation of fresh rabbit, beef or chicken with rice and cabbage. If Prince Andrew is coming, the Queen will make sure his favourite Mango Melba is on the menu – and she'll also ensure William’s favourite chocolate biscuit cake is featured for afternoon tea. On Christmas Day itself, the ladies generally opt for a light breakfast of sliced fruit, half a grapefruit, toast and coffee delivered to their rooms – the Queen’s tray is delivered at exactly 9am - while the male members of the family head downstairs for a hearty breakfast of eggs, bacon, mushrooms, kippers and grilled kidneys. Everyone's then ready for the 11am church service at St Mary Magdalene. It's a ceremony that attracts visitors 10
from around the world, and one of the most familiar (certainly one of the earliest) is KL magazine's photographer Ian Ward. Over the years he's taken some amazing pictures of the Royal Family (as you can see from the selection reproduced here) but his work has recently reached an even wider audience. Earlier this year, Photobox (Europe’s largest photographic community) teamed up with Jennie Bond, who served as the BBC’s Royal Correspondent for over 14 years, to create a unique photographic biography and picture archive of the Royal Family - as seen exclusively through the camera lens of the great British public over the last century. They assessed an incredible archive of unseen photographs of the Royal Family taken at the estimated 50,000 royal engagements since the Second World War, and chose a mere 250 images for The Crown from the Crowd book - the first edition of which was presented to Prince Harry and Meghan Markle as a pre-wedding gift. And one of the most attractive images is of the new Duchess of Sussex taken by Ian Ward at Sandringham on Christmas Day last year. "Some of the photographs they were considering dated from the reign of Queen Victoria, so I'm stunned to have one of my images published in the book," says Ian. "I don’t usually do
anything like this, but I thought I had some decent photographs and was encouraged by a friend to send in four. I never thought that any of them would be chosen - but I must admit it's a great honour." And if you're still wondering what Christmas dinner with the Royals is like, you'll be pleased to learn it's a very traditional family affair. There's no starter and the turkey comes from a local butcher. There's a choice of mashed and roast potatoes, chestnut or sage and onion stuffing, cranberry sauce and bread sauce. The vegetables will include brussels sprouts, carrots and roast parsnips - and if you'd like to offer the Queen a drink to go with her dinner, make a note that she prefers a glass of the aromatic white wine Gewürztraminer. In the very first televised Christmas message in 1957, broadcast from the Long Library at Sandringham, the Queen became an indelible part of our own festive celebrations. "It is inevitable that I should seem a rather remote figure to many of you, a successor to the Kings and Queens of history," she said. "Someone whose face may be familiar in newspapers and films but who never really touches your personal lives. But now, at least for a few minutes, I welcome you to the peace of my own home. Happy Christmas."
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Diarydates
9th HARTBEEPS MAGIC SPRINKLES CHRISTMAS PARTY A Hartbeeps session takes everyone to a place where magic happens, where parents and children play and enjoy each other’s company, where real life doesn’t intrude, where they dance and sing. The sessions are enchanting, extraordinary, fascinating, wonderful... and the Christmas party promises to be extra magical! This year Hartbeeps Norfolk are raising money for ‘Theresa's Tiny Treasures’. For more information or to purchase a ticket for the party at £10 per child, please email brandi@hartbeeps.com or anna@hartbeeps.com
CHRISTMAS QUIZ We have nearly reached the end of 2018 but there’s still time for one more event at True’s Yard - their fantastic Christmas Quiz. This year it falls on St Nicholas’ Day. It costs just £4 per person and includes a hot drink, biscuits and a chance to win some fabulous prizes! Rounds include Christmas films, general knowledge and more! All proceeds will go to help the Museum’s Reminiscences project to help people living with Dementia. For more details call 01553 770479 or email info@truesyard.co.uk
WHEN: Sunday 9th December, 11am -
WHEN: Friday 6th December,
BabyLand Christmas Party (Birth to toddling), 2.30pm - Happy House Christmas Party (Toddling to 5 years) WHERE: Searles, Hunstanton
© Sue Jury
11am-12noon WHERE: True’s Yard Fisherfolk Museum, King’s Lynn
MICROSCOPIC EXHIBITION Bishy Lace Group’s innovative exhibition of handmade lace combines its use with other materials such as wire, metal, acetate and even bones. Some pieces reflect microscopic sea life, others cell structure or a wider interpretation of the theme – even our microscopic place as individuals in the universe! In addition, there will be other pieces reflecting the interests of individual artists, many based on aspects of the North Norfolk Coast. Entry is free. 25% of proceeds from the exhibition will be donated to the Norfolk Wildlife Trust. For further details, please visit norfolkwildlifetrust.org.uk
WHEN: 9th January 2019 to 5th February 2019, (10am-4pm daily)
31st MASQUERADE BALL See in the new year in style and enjoy a superb 4-course dinner with a welcome glass of Prosecco. There will be entertainment from the resident DJ and a glass of Champagne at midnight to toast the start of 2019! Tickets: £79.95 per person For more details go to www.dukesheadhotel/christmas or to reserve your place call 01553 774996 or email reception@dukesheadhotel.com.
WHEN: New Years Eve WHERE: Dukes Head Hotel, 5-6 Tuesday Market Pl, King's Lynn PE30 1JS
19th
© Matthew Usher / KLTIC
6th
9th JANUARY
LOCAL EVENTS IN DECEMBER & JANUARY
JANUARY THE LAUNCH OF MEMORIALS TRAIL & PERFORMANCE OF MARHAM MILITARY WIVES CHOIR
Six heritage and educational organisations in King’s Lynn worked together in Autumn 2018 on a World War One remembrance project called Scars of War. The culmination of this project is a Town Trail collated to enable members of the public to visit the venues involved to view the new memorials that have been created and learn about other historic graffiti. The Mayor of King’s Lynn
and West Norfolk will be launching the trails at the Town Hall at 11am followed by a performance by the Marham Military Wives Choir. For more details call 01553 770479 or email info@truesyard.co.uk.
WHEN: Saturday 19th January (11am-12:30pm)
WHERE: Town Hall, Saturday Market Place, King’s Lynn
WHERE: Norfolk Wildlife Trust, Cley Marshes KLmagazine December 2018
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ABOVE: Picture Caption here
Celebrating Christmas on the Blickling Estate The festive season will once again see Blickling Estate transformed into a magical winter wonderland...
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S
et in the heart of the beautiful Bure meadows in Norfolk and surrounded by magnificent grounds is the breathtaking Jacobean mansion that is Blickling Hall. Claimed to be the birthplace of Anne Boleyn and a temporary home for RAF aircrew during the Second World War, it’s now the perfect spot for dog walking and an essential Norfolk tourist destination. The whole estate is steeped in history and architectural heritage of buildings such as The Temple – and the art found on display in the hall itself. There’s almost always something happening on the Blickling Estate, and Christmas is no exception. Christmas at Blickling Hall is a very special time indeed. Visitors in previous years would have been enchanted by the view of the hall alone – the combination of sparkling fairy lights cascading down the trees that line the drive and the magical colour displays accentuating the hall’s grand exterior make for quite a sight. This year the Blickling Estate is transforming itself into a Christmas wonderland complete with festive food and drink and a plethora of gift buying opportunities for those still looking for that perfect present. The iconic tree-lined driveway will pave the way for an exploration of this year’s festive interior, with the hall decked out to show a traditional Georgian Christmas in all its glory. The Georgian theme is new this year and has been applied to reflect on Blickling’s five-year conservation project of the 18th century Long Gallery library, which aims to see all 12,500 books in the library professionally catalogued – no wonder it’ll take five years! You can visit the library on any day of the week to discover more about the extensive conservation work in progress. For more information see the website at www.nationaltrust.org.uk/blicklingestate.
© JUSTIN MINNS
© PAUL BAILEY
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MOAT ROAD NURSERY A family�run, independent garden centre
Wreaths & freshly cut flowers also available
Open up until Christmas Eve!
One of the biggest displays of real Christmas Trees in West Norfolk!
Moat Rd, Terrington St Clement, King's Lynn, PE34 4PN Tel: 01553 828723 | Open: Mon-Sat 9-5, Sun 10-4
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A new chapter in the story of sensational sports cars
Listers King’s Lynn welcomes the BMW 8 Series Coupé – a production car that sets new standards of performance and cutting-edge design
I
t made its first appearance at the FIA WEC endurance races and IWSC sportscar championships in America, was officially launched at Le Mans, and it’s about to make an equally impressive arrival at Listers King’s Lynn. It’s the BMW 8 Series Coupé, and it’s the latest development in BMW’s long history of sportscar excellence. In fact, it’s one of the most exciting cars BMW has ever produced. The all-new BMW 8 Series Coupé boasts outstanding performance, incredible design, state-of-the-art luxury, and a world of exceptionally advanced features – and you can be one of the very first to experience it by booking a test drive at Listers King’s Lynn today. “To be honest, dynamic performance, stylish looks and luxurious detailing are nothing new to BMW,” says Listers King’s Lynn Head of Business Laurence Bennett, “but having this
amount of innovation in a production car is quite extraordinary. We’re really looking forward to introducing people to the 8 Series Coupé and the modern world of BMW.” And all the excitement is more than justified. As if the newly developed V8 engine (530hp) wasn’t enough to turn a few heads – this is an engine tested on the Nürburgring’s Nordschleife circuit after all – the new BMW 8 Series Coupé features the production debut of a carbon fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP) roof for enhanced aerodynamics, comfortable and re-designed sports seats, BMW’s brilliant OS7 display and control technology as standard, and the slimmest LED headlights of any BMW model to date. If you need any more convincing, just listen to BMW's global product manager Sarah Lessmann. “In BMW’s history, the number 8 was always reserved for special projects such as the Z8 and i8,” she says. “The 8
Series is the perfect name for a car which is something very new and something that really stands out across the rest of our world-famous portfolio.” Situated on the Hardwick Road, Listers King’s Lynn offers the perfect BMW experience in King’s Lynn and the surrounding areas – with factorytrained technicians, the very latest equipment and software and a service that’s simply second to none. Discover the new BMW 8 Series Coupé at Listers today – and say hello to the future of the sportscar.
FIND US: Hardwick Road, King's Lynn PE30 4NA TEL: 01553 692000 | WEB: www.listers.co.uk/bmw
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A timeless story and an enchanting pantomime
This year, the Corn Exchange in King’s Lynn presents Sleeping Beauty with a glittering line up of stars from stage, screen and radio
I
t’s December, it’s the festive season, and that can only mean one thing: it’s time for the pantomime. The most wonderful time of the year (to coin a phrase) is simply incomplete without seeing a Christmas pantomime. This year, the King’s Lynn Corn Exchange has teamed up with Jordan Productions to present the timeless story of Sleeping Beauty. The show takes to the stage from Friday 7th December until Monday 31st December, and promises to be even bigger and better than previous years. The classic tale of a princess doomed to sleep forever and finally awakened by the kiss of true love is told with the help of a stellar cast from television,
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stage and radio. Victoria Bush, known to millions as school secretary Sonya Donegal in BBC1’s Waterloo Road, was born and raised in King’s Lynn, so it’s only fitting she’s part of the Corn Exchange pantomime this year. You may have seen her in shows such as Bad Girls, Celebrity Stars in Their Eyes, and Who Wants to be a Millionaire. She’s also appeared in numerous musicals such as Stepping Out at the Theatre Royal, Lincoln, and is now turning to the dark side to play the Evil Carabosse in this year’s production. What would a pantomime be without its dame? Back by popular demand is King’s Lynn’s favourite Ian Marr. Ian’s credits include Downton Abbey and
Waking the Dead – and he also played Alan Gregg in a national tour of Shadowlands. No stranger to pantomimes, Ian has been part of Christmas productions around the country for 17 years now, and this year will be appearing as the bountiful Dame Nellie Night Nurse. Returning to King’s Lynn alongside him is Scott Cripps as Chester the Jester. Not only has Scott played many roles on the Corn Exchange stage, but he’s also performed on the West End in Billy Elliot, Titanic, Sweeney Todd, The Pirates of Penzance, Peter Pan and Doctor Doolittle. He’s toured with a number of shows such as Jesus Christ Superstar, and you might be able to spot him on the big screen as an 21
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inmate in Paddington 2 dancing alongside Hugh Grant! After making her pantomime debut as Wendy in Peter Pan last year, the Corn Exchange is proud to present Olivia Arnold as Sleeping Beauty herself. Olivia recently graduated from the Mountview Academy of Theatre Arts and her credits include Cinderella’s mother in Into the Woods, Gymnasia in A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum, Anne in Half a Sixpence, and even Lady Macbeth. She’s certainly one to watch! Having also trained at the Mountview Academy of Theatre Arts, Isobel Bates gained an MA in Musical Theatre Performance and is now bringing that training to the pantomime as she stars as Fairy Fortywinks. She’s an incredible vocalist and is currently a member of the all-girl rock and roll band The Daisy Chains. Experience has never gone unnoticed on the stage, and Paul Bentley, who will play King Clarence in this year’s pantomime, seems to have done it all. His West End credits include the Admiral and Chairman of the Bank in Mary Poppins, the Lord Chancellor in Iolanthe, and Captain Corcoran in the 22
Olivier Award nominated production of HMS Pinafore. He’s played major roles in many big musicals such as Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Cats and Aspects of Love and Sondheim’s Follies, and has been seen on television in everything from Game of Thrones (he played the High Septon) and Doctor Who. As if that’s not enough, KLFM’s Charles Dennett, known as ‘Posh Charles’, is also welcomed back to the Corn Exchange stage for his third pantomime. Last year’s Jack and the Beanstalk was a smash hit, but it looks as though this year’s pantomime will be even better. Sleeping Beauty at the Corn Exchange promises to be a night of music, fun, laughter, stunning special effects and plenty of surprises to keep you on the edge of your seats.
TICKETS To book visit the website kingslynncornexchange.co.uk or call the Box Office on 01553 764864
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Daniel Ball
PARTNER
Investment opportunities and the winds of change Head, Commercial Department
Renewable energy may be the way of the future, but its appeal for investors has been debatable until now. Daniel Ball of Fraser Dawbarns LLP explores the options and explains how that may be changing
F
or years, the UK Government offered a range of subsidies for clean energy projects, providing grants for those setting up commercial renewable energy plants and offering reductions on energy bills for homeowners who installed solar panels on their houses. This helped create many small plants supplying energy to the National Grid – and also helped the Government reach their legally binding obligation to cut carbon emissions. That all changed when the Government scrapped subsidy payments for onshore wind projects. With the withdrawal of subsidies, investment in the wind sector dropped. The private sector won’t commit to projects that don’t produce suitable returns, looking instead to alternatives for higher returns on their investment. Similarly in other renewable sectors such as solar, investment was pared
back as subsidies decreased. Recent figures suggest that this is changing. This is partly because of Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs), where power generators sell the energy they produce directly to a buyer. PPAs are long-established in the US and are becoming more common in Europe. By finding installations with sufficient power requirements, it‘s possible to sell all the power generated by a renewable energy project to the private sector at pre-agreed prices, giving more certainty to investors. The main reason, however, is the return on investment that the private investor can now yield. This has partly come about due to the reduction in the cost of generating power from renewable technologies. The technology is becoming more efficient by recovering more energy when in operation, driving costs down. The prices of the turbines and solar photovoltaics used in renewable projects have also come down, so we are at a stage in the cycle where we have reduced capital outlay and increased generation.
Battery technology often goes hand in hand with renewables, and wind and solar plants frequently use vast arrays of batteries to store generated energy. Despite huge advances in battery technology in recent years, the cost of these arrays limits the potential for returns. This sector is developing very quickly, so although it remains very much a “watch this space” opportunity for now it’s a very exciting prospect for the near future. Having worked with a number of local developers and landowners on renewable energy projects, Fraser Dawbarns sees this as a very exciting prospect – technological development is now providing real opportunities for people to set up profitable renewable energy sites without relying on subsidies. For help with this or any other legal issue, please contact us today for an initial consultation on 01553 666600, visit our website, or e-mail info@fraserdawbarns.com.
21 Tuesday Market Place, King’s Lynn, Norfolk PE30 1JW Tel: 01553 666600 Fax: 01553 767221 DX: 57800 KINGS LYNN Web: www.fraserdawbarns.com E-mail: info@fraserdawbarns.com
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ABOVE: Charles I on the eve of the Battle of Edge Hill in 1642 – with the king’s conviction and execution for high treason in January 1649, a republic called the Commonwealth of England was declared and Christmas became yet another of its victims
When Christmas was banned in King’s Lynn
Although we see Christmas as a time for celebration, there was a time when the world for local people was turned upside down. In fact, there were very few festivities during the Commonwealth Listen to me and you shall hear news hath not been this thousand year: Since Herod, Caesar, and many more, you never heard the like before. Holy-dayes are despis’d, new fashions are devis’d. Old Christmas is kicked out of Town. Yet let’s be content, and the times lament, you see the world turn’d upside down Not being allowed to celebrate Christmas seems almost unthinkable today, but there was a time when it was just one more thing for local people to worry about. Although much has been written about the English Civil War (1642–51) and the causes which brought about this disastrous bloodbath, the years of
KLmagazine December 2018
the Commonwealth under The Lord Protector Oliver Cromwell until the Restoration of Charles II are not well known – despite the fact that King’s Lynn was particularly badly affected. The town had declared for the King (disastrously as it turned out) and not only was trade seriously disrupted but the townspeople had to find the money to support a garrison of parliamentary troops billeted in the town after they capitulated to Cromwell’s army. Thomas Toll, the puritan mayor of the time, was forced to make the following plea to Parliament: “The miserable condition this poor town is in is not unknown to you. Where soldiers are, and no money to pay them, the cry of the inhabitants
must needs be great”. The scene was set for a pretty grim time, and the people of Lynn had no way of knowing what would happen next. Mutinous and virtually bankrupt, their world was literally turned upside down. Christmas had always been a joyous time, but Lord Protector of the Commonwealth Oliver Cromwell passed strict laws to catch anyone holding or attending a special Christmas church service. From 1656, legislation was enacted to ensure every Sunday was stringently observed as a holy day. By contrast, shops and markets were told to stay open on 25th December, and in London soldiers were ordered to patrol the streets, seizing any food
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they discovered being prepared for Christmas celebrations. Christmas was always a time of long-cherished rituals and excessive social behaviour, but from the mid1500s Puritan leaders had objected to ‘frivolous’ additions to the religious calendar such as Christmas. They saw the festive season as a wasteful festival that threatened Christian beliefs and encouraged immoral activities to the “great dishonour of God” – and that discontent led to forceful legislation. On 19th December 1643 an ordinance was passed encouraging subjects to treat the mid-winter period “with more solemn humiliation because it may call to remembrance our sins, and the sins of our forefathers.” This rejection of Christmas as a joyful celebration was reinforced when a 1644 act confirmed the abolition of feasts at Christmas, Easter and Whitsun – it meant that until the Restoration in 1660, Christmas festivities were officially illegal. In January 1645, Parliament produced a new ‘Directory for Public Worship’ that made it clear that festival days (including Christmas) should be spent in respectful contemplation rather than celebration. As you can imagine, the Puritans’ prohibition of Christmas proved extremely unpopular, and proBELOW: A contemporary image of a failed Royalist plot to seize London from the Parliamentarians and its aftermath in May 1643 – Christmas would have to wait another 17 years before being celebrated in public
Christmas riots broke out on Christmas Day 1647. King’s Lynn was regarded as a particularly degenerate town at the time, whose habits hadn’t changed much despite the Reformation – and days such as 19th October 1651 were reserved for the public humiliation of the local population. All shops and businesses were shut to give citizens the opportunity to seek God at the church of St Margaret’s Church or elsewhere, because “all sortes of sinners” abounded. Drunkenness, pride, envy and wantonness were rife, and in December 1656 local archives show that the ABOVE: Samuel Cooper’s classic portrait of Oliver Cromwell, corporation decided the completed in 1656, just two years before the latter’s death poor needed to be instructed in the hours; people decorated their homes principles of religion because they with holly, ivy and mistletoe, acting were “very ignorant“ – and to receive troupes put on comedic stage plays Poor Law money they had to attend (our modern pantomime) and inns St Margaret’s every Friday. were brimming with merrymakers. Since the Middle Ages, Christmas The same argument against had been celebrated in much the Christmas excess is debated every same way. 25th December was the year today, so perhaps it’s no surprise high holy day on which the birth of that when Cromwell and his fellow Christ was commemorated, and Puritans (to whom singing, theatrical merriment lasted until Twelfth Night entertainment and Christmas on 5th January. Churches held special festivities were not only abhorrent but services; businesses kept shorter sinful) were given the power to ban such activities they did so in earnest. To conclude, I’ll tell you news that's right, Christmas was kil’d at Naseby fight: Charity was slain at that same time, Jack Tell troth too, a friend of mine, Likewise then did die, rost beef and shred pie, Pig, Goose and Capon no quarter found. Yet let's be content, and the times lament, you see the world turn'd upside down.
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Lettingbetter
Our monthly round up of the latest news and legislation concerning Landlords and Tenants in the private rented sector with Edmonton Estates Director
Damien Simone
Quickfacts Boxing Day gets its name from all the money collected in church alms-boxes for the poor. Please remember the less fortunate whilst enjoying your Christmas.
Tis the Season for moving house...
I
t is a common misconception that all areas of the property market fall into a dormant state from the start of December as the public’s view fixates firmly on the Christmas Holiday. To a great extent this is true of the sales market but when it comes to lettings this belief couldn’t be further from the reality. Demand is constant throughout the year in the private rented sector with the main seasonal variation being the demand for certain property types or locations. Winter is no exception and particularly from the start of November we find that the level of interest in larger family properties intensifies with prospective tenants wanting to ensure that the paperwork for their newly selected property is finalised with enough time to be moved and settled in before the big day in December. And why not? Most of us have at some point in time had the desire of a new home
ready in time for Christmas and the self-satisfaction of being able to relax and enjoy it during the extra time afforded to us during Christmas and New Year. Whilst this is a time for families to unite and spend time together the results are not always harmonious. Following the Christmas period both letting agents and solicitors dealing with family law find themselves in high demand as this is the peak period in which relationships break down and the resultant two households then require two homes. In response to this the market demand swings away from three and four bedroom houses and one and two bedroom properties become the favoured commodity with the speed of turn-around being the next most pressing factor. It can be sad at times but often you can’t have a new beginning without first enduring an ending.
Edmonton Estates Ltd, Nelson House, Bergen Way, King's Lynn PE30 2DE 01553 660615 www.edmontonestates.co.uk info@edmontonestates.co.uk
KLmagazine December 2018
When letting your property choosing an agent with a thorough understanding of both local and national market influences is essential for you to ensure the best price and agreement is achieved for your property investment. Anyone advising you that “no one is really looking at this time of year” does not understand the current market trends and may not recognise the best opportunities to rent your property. If you are uncertain of how best to market or manage your rental property over the winter period then why not contact our office on 01553 660615. Our advice is free and we would be delighted to hear from you.
Independent Lettings & Property Management Specialists
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Tax planning for a prosperous future Effective business and personal tax planning from Stephenson Smart can help to ensure a secure financial future for you and your business
Business strategies
Is your business motoring policy as tax-efficient as it could be? With the taxable benefits on cars increasing year on year, it may be time to review your business motoring policy. In some cases, it could be more tax-efficient to pay employees for business mileage in their own vehicles at the statutory mileage rates, especially if their business mileage is high. A company van may also be worth considering in certain circumstances – please talk to us about the potential tax benefits. Are you claiming all the relevant allowances? Businesses looking to purchase capital equipment can claim tax relief in the form of capital allowances. The majority of businesses are able to claim a 100% Annual Investment Allowance (AIA) on the first £200,000 of expenditure on most types of plant and machinery (except cars) and the KING’S LYNN 01553 774104 FAKENHAM 01328 863318
KLmagazine December 2018
rate is temporarily increasing to £1m from 1 January 2019 to 31 December 2020. The self-employed may be able to claim for allowable expenses such as office costs, travel costs, clothing expenditure and more.
Personal strategies Have you sought to minimise your liability to income tax? You may be able to minimise your income tax liability by making full use of your personal allowance (PA), which is set at £11,850 for 2018/19. If a spouse or partner has little or no income, consider transferring income (or income-producing assets) to them to ensure that they're able to make full use of their PA. You may also benefit from applying for the Marriage Allowance, although certain rules and restrictions apply to this. Are you making use of tax-efficient investment opportunities? A number of investment products DOWNHAM MARKET 01366 384121 WISBECH 01945 463383
offer tax-free income, including Individual Savings Accounts (ISAs) and some National Savings products. You may also wish to make investments under the Enterprise Investment Scheme (EIS), the Seed Enterprise Investment Scheme (SEIS), via a Venture Capital Trust (VCT) or using Social Investment Tax Relief (SITR). However, it is important to consider the potential risks as well as the benefits, and we recommend that you speak to a qualified adviser before taking action. As your accountants and business advisors, Stephenson Smart can help you implement effective tax planning strategies. For more information, please contact us or pop into one of our offices for a free consultation.
Chartered Accountants and Business Advisors
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ABOVE: Desmond Waite outside Bridge Street in King’s Lynn in 1980 – he saved the properties from demolition and is the current home of the architectural practice run by his son Richard
How Desmond Waite transformed King’s Lynn
In 1959 a young architect from Portsmouth arrived in King’s Lynn, and over the next 60 years made an indelible mark on the town and its heritage. KL magazine looks at the work of Desmond Waite
O
n the evening of 23rd September at this year's Mayor's Design Awards, local architect Richard Waite received the award for Small Residential Groups from Mayor Cllr Nick Daubney. It was presented for the development of three commercial premises and seven residential properties in one of the most historic parts of King's Lynn, a challenge the council's planning and conservation 34
departments agreed had been met "extraordinarily well." "This is a very real honour, but it's also a very special one," said Richard in receiving the award, "because this was my father's very last design." Richard now leads the architectural practice founded by his father Desmond at the start of the 1960s, a practice that’s made a lasting and visible impact on King's Lynn and the surrounding area over the last 60 years
- completing an average of 100 projects every year from awardwinning new builds and contemporary commercial facilities to tourist attractions and public buildings. It's all a far cry from the day in 1959 when Desmond Waite first arrived in King's Lynn with his wife and young children, passing the almost-completed tower of the Campbells' soup factory and under the town's iconic South Gate. That contrast between the new KLmagazine December 2018
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ABOVE: Desmond Waite beside HRH The Queen on the opening of the new Polhampton Stud (which he helped design) in 1979
and old faces of the town were to play a central role in his professional life from that point on. "There was no tradition of art or architecture in my father's family, but he had a natural talent for it," says Richard. "He'd worked extremely hard to study at the Portsmouth College of Art and even managed to pass the RIBA exams externally, which was a quite rare and particularly difficult feat in those days." The young architect had come to Norfolk to become the chief assistant of the well-respected Harold Marsh's practice in King Street, but his fortunes changed dramatically three months later when Harold died suddenly, leaving his young assistant with a large portfolio of partly-completed projects. Desmond had already fallen in love with King's Lynn, however, and lost no time in arranging a loan to buy the business and carry on the work. "The bank manager said that if he managed to repay the loan within the year he'd eat his hat," says Richard. "Needless to say, my father walked in 12 months later and presented the bank manager with a brand new hat." The legacy of Harold Marsh introduced Desmond to the world of renovating and modernising almshouses - a field in which he became an acknowledged authority. Clerk to the Trustees of the Trinity Hospital Almshouses at Castle Rising for 50 years, he would also be appointed Panel Architect for the National Association of Almshouses and eventually work on almost 100 almshouses across East Anglia. It was that combination of sound architectural practice and civic responsibility that would define the rest of Desmond's career. He joined both the recently-formed King's Lynn Civic
ABOVE: Desmond’s award-winning design for Baker Street in King’s Lynn, which was completed earlier this year and (below) one of his original sketeches for the development
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“I think my father always had an affinity for old buildings. King’s Lynn was perfect for him”- Richard Waite
ABOVE: Desmond Waite at work in his study in 1992 – over the course of six decades, the architect made a lasting impact on King’s Lynn and the surrounding area, as detailed in this map of the town prepared by his architect son Richard
Society (remaining its President to this day), advised the King's Lynn Preservation Trust, and was a founding member of the Conservation Area Advisory Panel, on which he'd serve for the next 34 years. In 1963 Desmond bought a row of four derelict cottages on the town's Bridge Street for £150 each, saving them from almost certain demolition and spending £28,000 over the course of the next four years in bringing them back to life. "I remember him visiting one of the properties and falling through the floor, but the condition of the buildings didn't matter to him," Richard remembers. "They contained some of the oldest masonry in the town and that's what concerned him. I think my father always had an affinity for old buildings, and King's Lynn was perfect for him." Desmond's approach to town planning was brought sharply into focus during the 1970s, when wholescale 36
redevelopment tried to ignore the past and force King's Lynn into the 20th century whether it liked it or not. He was disappointed to lose New Conduit Street with its avenue of lime trees – fully appreciating the need for development, but not when done solely in the name of convenience. One of Desmond's proudest achievements was his development of the Visitors Centre at Sandringham Estate ("he actually designed the souvenir shop on Christmas Day!" says Richard) and his pioneering work at Sandringham, researching and installing solar panels as early as 1971. He eventually received the MVO (Member of the Royal Victorian Order) from the Queen for his work on the Sandringham Estate over the course of 30 years. "My father never had a problem with contemporary architecture," says Richard. "What he's never liked is
'fashionable' architecture. He really admired the controversial Pompidou Centre in Paris when it was built because it was essentially a logic-driven solution. The interior was more important than the outside, so there was a genuine reason for putting the functional structures on the exterior." Despite retirement and advancing years, Desmond is still passionately interested in architecture and its responsibility to local heritage, and it's entirely fitting his last design is an award-winning example of the themes that have characterised his career. In one of the most historic parts of King's Lynn directly opposite the important and listed Clifton House, it's an obviously modern building that blends seamlessly into its surroundings, preserving the character of the street while acknowledging its place in the 21st century.
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We are a local firm of solicitors and our professional lawyers can offer you specialist legal advice and make sure your needs are met. We are experienced in;
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Conveyancing, family, residential and commercial lease, debt recovery, y, litigation, wills and probate, and personal injury, y, contract and professional negligence and dispute matters. We can often offer fixed fees so you know where you stand on costs and an introductory 1/2 hour free of charge. (not available for fixed fee arrangements) We would like to wish all of our clients a verryy
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A new custom-built office in only ten weeks
Another example of superb quality building by RGR Developments
W
hen Ryan Rix and Gary New of RGR Developments were putting the finishing touches to a stunning loft conversion just outside Swaffham, the homeowner was so impressed with their work he asked them to design and build a dedicated office suite in his garden. "He'd been working from a portable building for some time, and did a rough sketch on a bit of plasterboard to show us the kind of thing he was looking for," says Ryan. "From there we did everything in-house - from the full design to the final details." Taking a mere 10 weeks to complete, the impressive timber-framed building comprises an office and separate meeting room, cloakroom, storage and fully-fitted kitchenette area. RGR
Developments even undertook the exterior works - a raised patio, car park and landscaping. It's a fitting testament to the their high levels of craftsmanship, exacting standards of build quality, and accurately-detailed costings. "It's a really attractive office space and it's actually built to a higher standard than most extensions," says Gary. "It's superbly well insulated and it only requires a tiny air conditioning unit for all its heating needs." And although the customer was already familiar with the quality of RGR Developments' work, he was blown away with the completed project. "He was delighted with the loft conversion, but he thought we'd excelled ourselves with the office," says Ryan. "It's a great example of the complete building service we offer -
from start to finish." Through their use of high quality materials and first-class workmanship, RGR Developments have built a strong reputation throughout Norfolk and around the coast for work of a superbly high standard – delivered efficiently, on time, and on budget. From small conversions to complete new builds, RGR Developments can help you make the most of your home and bring your ideas to life.
8 Mill Road, Wiggenhall St Mary Magdalen King’s Lynn PE34 3BZ | Tel: 07921 910651 /
07817 941897 | Web: www.rgrdevelopments.co.uk | Email: info@rgrdevelopments.co.uk
KLmagazine December 2018
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A BEAUTIFUL & UNIQUE GEORGIAN TOWN HOUSE HOTEL, OVERLOOKING KING’S LYNN’S QUAY Delicious food served all day Lively bar • Open log fires 12 beautiful bedrooms Pr i v a t e r o o m s f o r p a r t i e s & m e e t i n g s Kings Staithe Square, King’s Lynn PE30 1RD 01553 660492 www.thebankhouse.co.uk E Q
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A new kitchen designed with style & craftsmanship With every kitchen designed and built specifically for every customer, Cecil & Bo can help create the home you’ve always wanted
S
tewart Harrison has a real passion for kitchens, so he's in his element with the current boom in new builds around the county, especially along the north Norfolk coast in places such as Hunstanton and Burnham Market. "Kitchens are now more important and a bigger focal point than ever," says the owner of Cecil & Bo Interiors, who has almost 20 years' experience in joinery and carpentry. "They've become the real heart of the home, and that's why it's so important to have your kitchen expertly designed and professionally fitted." In a range of high quality solid woods and available in an almost limitless choice of finishes and colours (including the full
Farrow & Ball paint collection) Stewart's kitchens are stunning to look at - and they're just as enjoyable to live with. "A lot of that comes through the design itself," he says. "I'll always take people's ideas and thoughts on how they want to use their kitchen, you also need to ensure doors open in the right direction, ovens are situated conveniently, and islands are placed to maximise the available space." That attention to detail and the sheer quality of craftsmanship isn't just limited to Cecil & Bo Interiors' kitchens. Stewart and his team can also create superb bedroom suites, dining rooms and offices. In fact, Cecil & Bo are always keen to experiment with new ideas, new designs and new materials the more bespoke the better. If you'd like something out of the ordinary and
totally unique, all you need is a rough idea and Stewart and his team will help you bring it to life. And in addition to superb craftsmanship, clever features such as touch-opening drawers and traditional oak pantry inserts (of many styles and options), you can always be sure of a first-class and personal service. "I always work as though I'm working in my own home," says Stewart. "I like to think I'm painting a new picture. I really enjoy standing back and looking at a finished project - and hearing the customers say they love it. That's the real reward." Whether your taste is traditional or contemporary, contact Cecil & Bo Interiors today and discover a business that's just as passionate about your kitchen as you are.
Walton Highway | Web: www.cecilbointeriors.co.uk | Tel: 08009 875446 / 07719 186273 KLmagazine December 2018
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“
There couldn’t be a better place to train domestic staff than the sister house to Downton Abbey. You really couldn’t make it up! - Helen Robinson Managing Director of The Lady
”
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ABOVE: Lovingly and carefully restored by Ben Budworth and Helen Robinson of The Lady magazine, the stunning interior of Bylaugh Hall will shortly be home to a training centre for domestic staff
Welcome to Norfolk’s own Downton Abbey
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It’s one of the most fabulous private houses in Norfolk, and although Bylaugh Hall has a fascinating history, it’s now looking forward to an exciting future
ou may not have heard of Bylaugh Hall, but it was once the heart of the third largest estate in Norfolk after Holkham and Sandringham. A magnificent country house just outside Dereham covering 19,000 acres, it was built in 1852 by Charles Barry Jnr and Robert Richardson Banks on behalf of the Lombe family - the design following the ornate lines of the world-famous Houses of Parliament, which had been designed by Barry's father. Sir Charles Barry Sr had also designed Highclere Castle, which is known to millions today as Downton Abbey - making the current
KLmagazine December 2018
transformation of Bylaugh into a training centre for domestic service personnel a perfectly natural development for the 21st century. Appropriately, the hall’s new owners also have a local connection, which involves the longest-running weekly women’s magazine in the country. The Lady magazine was founded in 1885 by Thomas Gibson Bowles, who was twice MP for King’s Lynn in the early 20th century (serving two terms for two different parties) and the magazine is now owned and published by Bowles’ great-grandson Ben Budworth - who bought Bylaugh Hall four years ago with his managing director and partner Helen Robinson,
delighted that it brought him a step closer to his ancestral roots. But the story of the hall has an even more fascinating history, particularly in the role it played during the two world wars. The hall was commandered by a cavalry regiment during the First World War, when the 2/1st London Mounted Brigade trained at the hall in 1915 before being moved to
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ABOVE: Helen Robinson and Ben Budworth are transforming Bylaugh Hall and writing a new chapter in the building’s long history
nearby Blickling Hall outside Aylsham six months later. During the Second World War, Bylaugh was home to the BEF before being requisitioned by the RAF, playing its part in the war effort as the headquarters for No2 Group RAF, accommodating aircrew from nearby RAF Swanton Morley. At times there were up to 3,000 people billeted on the estate, especially after the 1942 bombing of Norwich, when it was considered too dangerous for military personnel to remain at the various aerodromes in the area. In December 1943, Bylaugh was the headquarters for No.100 Bomber Support Group, and became the command centre for its secret operations, developing and testing electronic devices. In fact, the first
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Allied bombing raid was planned from Bylaugh. It's believed that Prime Minister Winston Churchill visited on several occasions - with American President Dwight Eisenhower at one time. The work at Bylaugh played a major part in reducing the effectiveness of the Luftwaffe’s nighttime raids and strengthening the country’s ground defences. After the war, the hall had several owners who tried (mostly unsuccessfully) to turn it at various times into a nursing home, a wedding venue or a concert hall before financial problems led to it being repossessed. And then Ben Budworth and Helen Robinson stepped in. The couple had been looking for a way to bring The Lady magazine into the 21st century, and found inspiration in the magazine’s longestablished and popular classified advertisements for domestic staff. “We wanted to develop the brand and excite the interest of the younger generation,” says Helen, “and in one of those moments of clarity that tend to happen around 3am we realised we should major on recruitment – after all, we’d already created the domestic service marketplace.” Using her previous experience in recruitment, Helen helped create a recruitment division in 2012, and together with Ben started looking outside London for suitable premises for a training establishment. When they found Bylaugh and discovered its connection to both the ‘real’ Downton Abbey they knew they’d found the perfect place. “There couldn’t be a better place to train and accredit domestic staff than
the sister house to Downton Abbey,” says Helen. “You really couldn’t make it up!” The purchase of the hall was completed in March 2014, and the couple then started on its transformation. Despite some attempts at renovation over the years, the condition of the building and its fabric was very poor (some parts even lacked a roof) and Ben and Helen had to extend their original five-year plan – partly because they had so many plans for the estate. There are 11 separate properties around the grounds, which lend themselves perfectly to holiday lets, and its position is ideal for accessing Norwich, King’s Lynn, the coast, the Broads - and London. Helen and Ben are full of ideas to establish Bylaugh Hall as the best (and possibly only) training establishment in the country for modern domestic staff. “We’ve had to move with the times,” says Helen. “Today’s household staff have to be as adept with a spreadsheet as they are with a corkscrew and they need to be able to take on multifaceted roles. We’re going to offer the perfect place to make that happen.” Bylaugh Hall is one of the most beautiful private houses in Norfolk its history is fascinating and its future is now in very safe hands indeed.
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West Norfolk: Then & Now
THE CHANGING FACE OF THE HIGH STREET Many thanks to True’s Yard Fisherfolk Museum in King’s Lynn for this nostalgic look at the town’s High Street which dates from the 1960s.
Although it was open for traffic at the time, the only vehicles shown here are four bicycles and a few prams – and a telephone box (remember them?) is just visible on the Saturday Market Place. As for the famous store dominating the left of the image, it had been John Thorley’s drapery business until Alfred Jermyn purchased it in 1872. It became
Jermyn & Sons Ltd in 1927 – and although it retained its identity when Debenhams took it over during the Second World War, it finally changed its name to Debenhams in 1972. The shops may have changed and the cars may have gone, but the High Street is still the thriving commercial heart of the town.
If you’re interested in seeing more of how our area has changed visit www.truesyard.co.uk 46
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The perfect solution for winter heating
It's energy-efficient, cost effective and sustainable - it's air source heating from the 4 Way Group
W
ith winter now well upon us (and even colder temperatures on the way), our thoughts inevitably turn to our heating systems and energy costs. While we'd obviously like to keep warm over winter and have all the hot water we need, we still want to keep our energy costs to a minimum. It may sound impossible to have the best of both worlds, but a professionallydesigned and installed air source heating system from the 4 Way Group can tick all the boxes – and can do it all year round. “Air source heating performs really efficiently when it’s only being used for your hot water needs,” says Steve
Simpson of the 4 Way Group. “That’s good news over the summer, but it’s during the winter months that our high quality systems really come into their own.” Whereas traditional heating systems using fuels such as gas and oil tend to provide heating in ‘blasts’ when required or as per programming, air source heat pumps are designed to provide high-grade heat at lower temperatures over a longer period of time. Even better, air source heating is between 30%-50% more costeffective to run than traditional heating alternatives. “Air source heat pumps are capable of outputting more than three times as much heat energy as the electricity they take to run,” says Steve. “That results in noticeably reduced heating costs for the end user, and for local builders the
t 01553 767878 w www.4waygroup.co.uk e sales@4waygroup.co.uk
system enables them to offer a more attractive selling proposition. And because it’s a renewable alternative, air source heating provides builders with the opportunity to future-proof their project.” Easily installed (even over winter) with no disruption to the overall project and no delays, air source heating is remarkably easy to run, with minimal interaction required from the user. It’s also very easy to maintain, with the 4 Way Group offering a full range of ongoing service and maintenance packages to ensure the system’s optimum energy-efficient performance. The benefits are clear – which is why more builders are choosing it for their projects and why more people are using it to keep warm over winter. If you’d like to discover how air source heating can help your next project, contact the 4 Way Group today for more details, and a free quotation. REFRIGERATION ELECTRICAL ENERGY MECHANICAL
Recognised and accredited throughout the industry:
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TR ENDLESS HA NDMADE IN NORFOLK
DELIVERED UP TO CHRISTMAS EVE
DINING TABLE A STTUNNING NEW
IN TIMEE FOR CHRISTMAS
The dining table is the centre c of your house and the heart of of yo your ur home especially at Chrisstmas. home, stmas However big your space or familyy is, is Trendless can create a beautifully tailor-made table to suit you. Tr u l y b e s p o k e i n d u s t r i a l f u r n i t u r e h a n d c r a f t e d b y e x p e r t f a b r i c a t o r s a n d w o o d w o r k e r s , i n c l u d i n g . . .
B E S P O K E I T E M S / CO F F E E & S I D E TA B L E S / B R E A K FA S T B A R S / D E S K S / C L O T H E S R AC K S / H O M E D E CO R / S T O R A G E Visit the Trendless workshop to discuss your ideas with Matt, Jane & Sam Clockcase Barn, Clenchwarton PE34 4BZ. Open Mon-Fri 9am-7pm & Sat 9am-1pm (appointment required) 07783908029 | matt@trendless.co.uk | www.trendless.co.uk
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Setting new standards for quality used cars... A superb choice and an exceptional service from Duff Morgan
E
stablished over 100 years ago back in 1909, Duff Morgan has always been associated with high standards of motoring excellence, a commitment to customer care and a commitment to exceeding expectations – and that’s particularly true of the company’s approach to used cars. With over 200 vehicles in stock at any one time, Duff Morgan offers a superb range of approved SEAT, Citroën and DS used cars together with a superb selection of commercial vehicles. But the choice is a lot wider than that. “We’ve actually got access to 1000s of different cars of all makes and all models,” says Sales Manager Martin
KLmagazine December 2018
Seal. “Whatever you're looking for, we can source everything from VW to BMW and from Audi to Skoda. And in the unlikely event we haven’t got the car you’re looking for, we’ll find it for you.” With truly competitive prices and finance options designed to suit you and your budget, all of Duff Morgan’s used vehicles are available for only £99 deposit – and no matter their age are all given the same attention to detail and special treatment. That means your vehicle comes with a year’s MOT protection and 12 month warranty, together with a whole year of roadside assistance. It also includes a thorough multi-point check by highly-
trained technicians, a full service history check, and even an independent vehicle history check. “We don’t just match you to your perfect car based on your wants, needs and affordability,” says Martin. ”We also go to great lengths to ensure you can buy a used vehicle from Duff Morgan with total confidence. And don’t forget that you’ll also enjoy the exceptionally high levels of back-up and support you’d expect from an award-winning dealer.” If you’re looking for a high quality used car or commercial vehicle at a great price (together with a first-class service to match) look no further than Duff Morgan.
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ABOVE: Members of Rock Choir outside the famous Abbey Road Studios in London 50
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Hitting the right note with Rock Choir
It’s fun, it welcomes everyone, and in only 12 years, it’s become the largest contemporary choir in the world. Local musician Mike Tandy talks about the growing popularity of Rock Choir in West Norfolk
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ock Choir is the largest contemporary choir in the world and the holder of no less than three Guinness World Records – for the biggest hit act in the UK, the largest musical act to release an album, and for the largest song and dance routine held at multiple locations. Spread over 81 areas throughout the country, Rock Choir currently comprises around 27,000 voices and has become a national phenomenon in little more than 12 years. On a local level, West Norfolk Rock Choir is led by musician Mike Tandy, whose enthusiasm makes him the perfect choice as a Rock Choir Leader. KLmagazine December 2018
“In 2005, singer and musician Caroline Redman-Lusher started working with A-level students to create a choir of 13 people,” he says. “That was how Rock Choir started, and things just grew from there. Today there’s an amazing number of choirs around the country – almost 400 in fact!” Bringing Rock Choir to today’s level has taken a lot of effort, but despite its sheer scale, the organisation is still a family-run affair. Originally featured on television in The Choir that Rocks seven years ago, viewers discovered how enjoyable (and relatively easy) choral singing in a choir could be – which led to a massive increase in membership. The idea behind Rock Choir is to
offer people of all ages the opportunity to join a local choir for fun. Sessions run in line with school term times, and singers don’t meet during school holidays. Each term sees every Rock Choir working on three new songs, with four learnt to a highly professional level in the run-up to Christmas. “We learn enough to be confident and sound great, but there’s no cracking of the whip or taking things too seriously here,” says Mike, “although there’s no limit to what you can do if you’re prepared to sing and have fun.” Being part of Rock Choir is a great way to meet new people and escape whatever life throws at you. You don’t have to sing solo (unless you want to) 51
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“There’s no limit to what you can do if you’re prepared to sing and have fun...”
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find the one closest to you, visit the website on www.rockchoir.com. Initially you can enjoy a Taster Session to see if it’s right for you, but with tens of thousands of members across the UK, it’s highly likely the mix of social life and singing will be perfect for anyone – members’ ages range from 18 to the mid-80s. So how did Mike, who is a professional musician, become involved with the Rock Choir and its development in West Norfolk? “I worked for many years on cruise ships, and while between trips in the summer of 2013 received an email asking me if I could teach and drive,” he says. “I was intrigued and found myself at an audition shortly afterwards. Within a few months I was setting up the first Rock Choir in the area – and I was soon opening more almost as quickly as I could get them organised!” He hasn’t looked back since – and Rock Choir in West Norfolk has gone from strength to strength. “We’re singing at major local venues and appearing at several charity and community events throughout the year,” says Mike. “The sheer camaraderie makes it all worthwhile, and we can help raise money while having a great time ourselves, I can’t imagine a better way to enjoy yourself.” Performances by local Rock Choir groups are guaranteed to delight audiences of all sizes with their mixture of contemporary music from a wide spectrum. “From The Beatles to Justin Timberlake, we cover as many aspects of music as we can,” he says. “With Rock Choir there are lots of opportunities to sing at fantastic places alongside outstanding people – and it’s so much fun!” One thing is certain, we haven’t heard the last of Rock Choir in West Norfolk.
BELOW: Mike Tandy and founder Caroline Redman-Lusher in front of the Royal Albert Hall © Asarum Images
and the performances are always exciting to be part of. “Through our events, we’ve been able to donate to number of good causes,” says Mike. “We donated £800 to the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in King’s Lynn towards a wheelchair, around £2,000 for projects in Hunstanton and Heacham, and money towards a minibus needed by the Meadow Gate school in Wisbech.” Earlier this year, 10,000 Rock Choir members combined their voices to become the biggest ‘Flash Mob’ ever when they performed as the opening act for Proms in The Park in London. Keeping their united identity secret until exactly the right moment, their voices rang out until an imperceptible signal led them to reveal the yellow Rock Choir t-shirts everyone was wearing underneath their coats. In West Norfolk, there are seven choirs in all, and each one was established by Mike. With a choir in Hunstanton, Fakenham, Swaffham, Wisbech, Downham Market and two in King’s Lynn, everyone is within easy reach of Rock Choir member – and to
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Restoring confidence & building self esteem for women When Ruth Griggs’ friend was dying of cancer, one of her final wishes was to have the full head of hair she’d had before her chemotherapy. Now Ruth is one of the few stylists in the country offering a cutting-edge form of treatment that offers incredible and long-lasting results...
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acmillan Cancer Support estimates there are over two million people living with cancer in the UK today, a figure that’s expected to rise to four million within the next decade. To put that into perspective, recent research by Breast Cancer Now shows that an average of 82 women are diagnosed with breast cancer every single day of the year. The devastating impact and consequences of such a diagnosis are hard to imagine, but one local woman with a very personal experience of those consequences isn’t just supporting people at this life-changing time – she’s actually helping women regain their confidence and selfesteem. 54
“Women with cancer face enormous challenges, unpleasant treatments and uncertain futures,” says Ruth Griggs, “but often one of the only things they want is to have their hair back!” Although she started her own hair extension business in 2016, it was a very personal loss that led her into the world of cutting-edge treatments for hair loss. “I met a lovely girl at equestrian college when I was about 16 and we roomed together in the students’ hall of residence, remaining friends for about 12 years,” says Ruth. “We were the same age and it was such a shock when she was first diagnosed with cancer in 2016.” Ruth’s friend was put on palliative care, and asked her on a virtually daily
basis for hair extensions – which was impossible because of the effects of chemotherapy. The only real alternative was a specialised wig, which Ruth’s friend determinedly refused to consider. “Her final wish was to have the full head of hair she’d had before her chemotherapy,” says Ruth. “Hair extensions wouldn't work and she didn’t want a wig, so I began to search for an alternative.” Ruth soon discovered the ‘mesh integration system’, a revolutionary and non-surgical procedure which involves blending existing hair with real hair attached to a custom-made ‘unit’ – and offers the benefits of an immediate full head of hair. With the cost of having a qualified KLmagazine December 2018
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consultant work on her friend’s hair exceeding £2,000, Ruth decided to train and obtain the qualifications herself. But time was running out. “Because the treatment is so effective there’s a long waiting list for the training,” says Ruth, “and while I managed to get a place on the course I was unable to fully qualify before my friend sadly passed away.” The personal tragedy inspired Ruth to offer this personalised solution to other women in her friend’s situation. “Mesh integration is a lot like working with textiles,” she says. “I apply hair extensions onto a mesh base, which is applied to the client first and the extensions are then sewn onto the base. It’s rather like a fixed alternative to a wig. It’s hard work and can take up to seven hours to complete, but all that effort is well worth it once clients see their personalised system for the very first time.” One of the secrets of Ruth’s transformational work – and the incredible results – is the use of real human hair from Russia, and while its source may be a little surprising its benefits certainly aren’t. Largely due to dietary factors, Russian hair possesses a distinct and unique protein structure – making it the strongest and longestlasting natural hair currently available. It means Ruth’s systems can remain in perfect condition for up to two years. From her predominantly mobile base in Dersingham, Ruth now helps over 100 women in Norfolk, and is one of the very few stylists in the country qualified to perform this individual style of hair loss treatment – and she’s keen to point out that the least important need for her services is vanity. “This is all about restoring confidence and self-respect,” says Ruth. “Women can lose their hair for all sorts of reasons from cancer to hereditary conditions, and from mental health issues to trichotillomania – a disorder
Before
After
ABOVE: A striking example of how Ruth Griggs helps women overcome hair loss. Although this particular client suffered hereditary hair thinning (left), there was enough strong hair remaining for Ruth to create a professional and perfectly natural-looking crown volumising ‘mesh integration system’ (middle and right)
“This is all about restoring confidence and self-respect – comfortably & professionally” that causes people to constantly pull out their hair. My job is to help every one of them overcome their hair loss – comfortably and professionally.” Ruth offers a free initial one-hour consultation where clients are welcomed, introduced to Ruth’s compassionate and understanding nature, and made to feel at ease in a safe and relaxing environment. Prices start at £700 (they can be up to six times as much in London) and Ruth is now looking at establishing a charity to help people afford the treatment, believing every woman deserves to look and feel complete. “I see people suffering every day and I’m really passionate about helping them on their journey using my skills and experiences,” she says. “In the
grand scheme of things, your hair may sound like a small thing, but for hundreds of women it can make all the difference in the world.” If you or a friend or family member could benefit from Ruth’s care and experience, please contact her using the details below.
Telephone: 07713182748 Email: extensionsbyruth@hotmail.com Website: www.hairbyruth.co.uk E www.facebook.com/extensionsbyruth KLmagazine December 2018
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New range of silver jewellery by SAN
TIM CLAYTON King’s Lynn
wear
Feel festive and look fabulous at the same time with this season’s choice of glittering party wear. From sparkling metallics and glittering sequins to elegant laces and bold prints, you’ll certainly be ready to turn heads and get into the Christmas spirit with plenty of inspiration from our local boutiques...
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Constellation Dress by White Stuff (£69.95)
GODDARDS King’s Lynn
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Sequin Midi Dress by Oasis (£85)
QUEENSGATE SHOPPING CENTRE Peterborough
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Tito Skirt by Gestuz
NELLE DK Thornham
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Cindy’s of Sutton Bridgge
End of season
SALE
Starts Thursday 13th December
Massive reductions on jeans, trousers, casualwear, dresses & partyw ywear
Sizes 10 -26 Open 9am - 5pm Closed Wednesday ww ww.cindysfashions.co.uk 108 Bridge Road, Sutton Bridge PE12 9SA Tel: 01406 350961
£o1ff5 £1
During December 2018 & January 2019
Get ready for the party!
Derma Vida can help you look great this Christmas
Come and see our very own expert in anti-ageing g treatments, Dr Leena Deo ol. Using Juvéderm Filler we can help to get rid of wrinkle lin nes, facial folds & thinning lip liines.
Also available: wrinkle relaxing injections for crows feet and othe er wrinkles
Call us to book a consultation on 01553 696886
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Dress by Frank Lyman
CINDY’S
Sutton Bridge
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The local gin with a very special difference
ABOVE: Michelle and Anthony Winterbourn and Natasha Burrows of Fen Spirits
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Just outside Wisbech, a small family-run distillery is producing a gin that’s taking the country by storm and generating interest from around the globe. Welcome to the world of Fen Spirits
t seems as though we can't get enough of gin at the moment. This time last year, it managed to leapfrog whisky and vodka to become the most popular spirit in the UK, a status underlined by record sales of 47 million bottles. "There are no signs that we're getting tired of trying new gins, and there are hundreds of them now available," says chief executive of the Wine and Spirit Trade Association Miles Beale. "There's plenty of innovation out there as well, with gins infused with everything from 66
seaweed to rhubarb - and even Christmas gins with frankincense and myrrh!" But innovation isn’t everything, and a choice of well over 500 gins masks a rather surprising truth about the recent gin boom - the fact that producing a gin is a very different thing from making it. Which is why a small family-run distillery just outside Wisbech is currently making such a big impression. "It may sound a little odd for us to be so proud of the fact that we’re making
our own alcohol," says Anthony Winterbourn of Fen Spirits, "but we're actually a very rare breed – what we're doing here is very special and it's almost unique - which isn't too bad for three people in a shed!" As you may have gathered, Anthony is nothing if not modest. Admittedly, the only other people in the enterprise are Anthony's wife Michelle and Natasha Burrows, and it's true that their distillery occupies what was until recently little more than a worskhop - but this is a perfect KLmagazine December 2018
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“If you're serious about making gin it makes no sense to buy in the alcohol” example of looks being deceiving. "If you buy a 'craft' gin that retails at £30+ a bottle you'd expect it to have been made from scratch," says Anthony, "but that's very rarely the case. Buying a tanker full of ethanol, adding some flavour and then re-distilling it is a completely different affair to making your own base spirit." It's a fact that more people are becoming aware of, however - that there’s a world of difference between simply flavouring a mass-produced pre-packed spirit and genuinely crafting a gin from the start. Anthony and Michelle started producing gins and toffee vodka in their kitchen, but he admits it hurt every time they had to buy in their own alcohol. "If you're serious about making gin it makes no sense whatsoever to buy in the alcohol," says Anthony. "We didn't want to simply flavour someone else’s alcohol - we wanted to make our own." Two years ago, Anthony and Michelle set about converting a disused workshop at The Secret Garden touring park to a distillery, funded almost entirely by hard work and the support of friends. It had no electricity, no water, no drainage - and when the vital reflux still arrived from America it didn't contain any instructions. Undeterred, Anthony posted their progress on Facebook, somewhat amazed to find himself receiving 177 page likes on a Sunday afternoon. "By the morning that was up to 2,500 and within two weeks we had 20,000 followers," he says. "That's now up to nearly 80,000, which is more than Fever Tree and more than Gordon's Gin. Our first post eventually went to five million people around the word and has been seen by 1 in 15 people in the country. It's still hard to believe to be honest." But when your Inbox is full of e-mails requesting you send the fruits of your labours to America, Canada and Australia you know you're doing something right. KLmagazine December 2018
ABOVE: Natasha Burrows checks the latest batch of base alcohol as Fen Spirits continues to attract interest from around the world for the distinctive taste of its drinks 67
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It's not rocket science and it's not some esoteric lost art. Gently dripping out of Anthony's still (he didn’t need the instructions after all) is a 96% alcohol solution that even at this early stage tastes extraordinary. Virtually evaporating on the tongue, it's decidedly clean, smooth and fresh which gives Fen Spirits an immediate head start, especially as most gin 'producers' avoid this stage altogether. From there, it's a case of adding juniper berries, coriander seeds, Szechuan pepper, fennel, cardomom, fresh bay leaves, a touch of citrus and a little Angelica root to bind all the flavours together and re-distilling. It's a closely-guarded recipe that took Anthony two years to develop. The result is a perfectly balanced, delightfully smooth and refreshingly clean London Dry Gin - which is possibly the most complex and technically challenging gin to make. It's a remarkable achievement and it's one that hasn’t gone unnoticed. The famous London-based wine merchant Jeroboams chose Fen Spirits as its Gin of the Month for September, and the Lincolnshire Co-operative now stocks Anthony’s toffee vodka in no less than 68
85 of its stores. "When you've got the base spirit right you can pretty much do anything you want," says Anthony. " Bottled and waxed by hand, Fen Spirits now produces around a dozen drinks; an outstanding premium vodka, a beautiful grapefruit and orange gin liqueur, a toffee vodka laced with Naga chilli, and a delicious sloe gin – which is making its debut this year in a limited edition of 500 bottles. They're even now in the early stages of developing a rum. "We’re just happy with being in total control of our product from start to finish," says Anthony. "We might be slightly different and we may be a little unhinged, but this time last year we were putting out about 2,000 bottles a week in the run-up to Christmas. We'll be doing significantly more this year. It's not magic - its simply being true to your ingredients and producing the very best that you can." FEN SPIRITS The Chapel, The Secret Garden Touring Park, Mile Tree Lane, Wisbech PE13 4TR Website: www.fenspirits.co.uk
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Visit us in Walsingham and Heacham and grab our 2018 Christmas brochure! Order everything you need for your Christmas feast in store, online via email or call us today. Check out our fantastic meat, deli and winter vegetable hampers making Christmas easy!
Walsingham Farms Shop Guild Street Walsingham Nor folk NR22 6BU
Walsingham Farms Shop Nor folk Lavender Lyynn Road, Heacham L Nor folk PE31 77J JE
tel: 01328 821877
tel: 01485 570002
Email: info@walsingham.co walsingham.co KLmagazine December 2018
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C H R I S T M A S D AY FESTIVE MENUS
6 COURSE MEAL FROM ÀLA CARTE MENU Adult: £23.95 Child: £15.95
FESTIVE INDIAN 6 COURSE ROAST MENU Adult: £29.95 Child: £18.95
Call to book your table (by December 24th)
01553 765947 / 07341810953 d
0
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61 Railway Road, King’s Lynn PE30 1NE
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Order takeaway online: www.rajasthanindian.co.uk
e our NEW seasonal menu-
FormalLy The LatTice House FulLy Refurbished & Under New Management 01553 769585 wWw.bish ps fchap lst.c .uk Chapel StreEt, King’s LynN PE30 1EG
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Chicken tikka shashlik naga jal INGREDIENTS Serves 2
250g chicken tikka • 1 red pepper • 1 green pepper • 2 red onions • 1 large tomato • 1 tbsp mixed curry powder • 2 tsp chilli powder • 3 tsp naga chilli paste • pinch of salt • 1 tbsp vegetable oil • 2 tsp tomato purée • 1 tsp shatkora paste • 4 green chilli • sprinkling of dry mint • 2 cloves of garlic • squirt of ginger paste • pinch of coriander • 2 tbsp masala sauce • special Indian gravy
1 2 3 4
Heat the vegetable oil and add ginger, garlic, green chillies, shatkora paste, chilli powder and mixed curry powder along with a pinch of salt. Then dice one of the red onions, add to the pan and sizzle for around two minutes. Add the special indian gravy and the masala sauce, then heat for three minutes. Then add the chicken and cook for around five minutes.
5 6
Add the peppers, dice the remaining onion and add to the pan along with the tomato purée and naga chilli paste, then stir. Slice the large tomato into chunks and also add to the pan. Then add a sprinkling of dry mint, a pinch of coriander and cook for a further three minutes. CHEF’S TIP: For the perfect presentation and to add some last minute flavours, add a few diced cherry tomatos, four pieces of dill, a small amount of red cabbage and two bay leaves.
RECI PE BY RAJASTHAN I NDI AN RESTAURANT & TAKEAWAY 61 Railway Road, King's Lynn PE30 1NE Tel: 01553 765947 Web: www.rajasthanindian.co.uk KLmagazine December 2018
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A new chapter in the story of the Golden Fleece It's been a part of Wells-next-the-Sea for hundreds of years, but new owner David Edmondson is taking this traditional local pub to another level entirely...
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few weeks ago, a group of 40 cyclists undertook a charity bike ride from Leicester, ending their 75-mile trip with dinner at The Golden Fleece in Wells-next-theSea. Their destination wasn't a random choice, however - news of this fabulous pub has spread far and wide over the last few months. Though it's stood on the quayside at Wells for hundreds of years (the first floor is reached by an original staircase salvaged from a French galleon), there may never have been a more exciting time in the long history of The Golden Fleece. "I'm the bloke who really did buy his local!" says David Edmondson, who bought the pub at the start of the year and is now spearheading its
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renaissance. "I've lived in Wells for almost five years and I've always loved this pub - but I always thought it could be better. We've now got the chance to make that happen." David doesn't see himself as the owner. He prefers to think of himself as the current custodian of the pub, which sits on the edge of the quayside at Wells and boasts some of the very best views in the county. It appeals to everyone from local fishermen to visitors from all over the world. "We're in the hospitality trade and we pride ourselves on being very hospitable," says David. "We're dogfriendly and we're child-friendly and we'll extend a warm welcome to everyone." One of David's first priorities was to
revitalise the pub's food offering, which he felt had been rather forgotten in the past.
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"The menu was crowded and cluttered and very confused about what it wanted to be," he says. "I wanted to bring it up to date and concentrate on local produce, seasonal ingredients and great food." Thanks to Head Chef Tim Macdonald he managed to find talented sous-chef Fred Bambridge, who jumped at the opportunity and arrived at The Golden Fleece earlier this year. "I think it's the best move I've ever made," he says. "Within two months I'd actually moved to Wells. It's a beautiful place and this is a wonderful pub, and I think we're doing something very special with our food now." The Golden Fleece is one of the very few places in the county that offers a 3course vegan menu, and Fred's approach is as eye-catching as it is delicious. "Although we do offer traditional pub dishes, I like to think we're changing the way people think about vegan food," he says. "Our cauliflower curry is amazing, our Blakeney squash salad (thanks to the help of a local farmer) is incredible, and our chocolate mousse cappuccino has to be tasted to be believed. If people think that vegan food is bland and boring, I know that we can convince them otherwise within a few minutes." That approach has also been applied to the bar, which welcomed manager Zoe de Boehmler over the summer. With a background in hospitality stretching from New Zealand to London, she's brought a fresh look to drinking at The Golden Fleece. "We'll cater for the fishermen and local drinkers," she says, "but we're also helping people discover more local tastes - whether that's a locallyproduced ale, gin or vodka." Zoe's already introduced a cocktail menu, kicking off with a superb variation on the classic espresso martini
ABOVE: Sous chef Fred Bambridge and bar manager Zoe de Boehmler are helping give The Golden Fleece in Wells-next-the-Sea a whole new approach to food and drink
(the addition of salted caramel is an inspired touch) and a delightful rhubarb and custard cocktail that’s packed with equal measures of flavour and nostalgia. She's also started pairing specially-chosen wines to the pub's menu. By far the best way of experiencing The Golden Fleece is to climb that famous staircase and dine in the firstfloor dining room. Even if you haven't booked it for a private function, the views are incredible and change throughout the day as the tide comes in. It's less than a stone's throw from Andy Frary's quayside stand - from where the kitchen buys its fresh-fromthe-sea mussels and crabs. At heart, this is everything a pub should be. The Golden Fleece is perfect
The Quay, Wells-next-the-Sea NR23 1AH KLmagazine December 2018
for locals and visitors alike. Its food is outstanding and its drinks are perfect. It's also playing a significant role in the community. "Over the last year we've sponsored the Wells Carnival and football team, supported the local RNLI crew, raised almost £800 for the local high school and we'll be sponsoring the Wells Christmas Tide later this month," says David. "That's exactly what I'd want my local pub to be doing, and this isn't just my local any more - it's everyone's!"
Tel: 01328 710650 web: www.goldenfleecewells.co.uk
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Craw wfish Inn Thai Restaurant & Bar
CHRISTMAS T
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set menu sample dishes s
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from 1 st to 23rd decemb er
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a t
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D NALDS NS A f resh taste of the sea
Austin Fields, King’s Lynn | Tel: 01553 772241 OPEN: Tues/Wed/Thurs 7am-4pm, Fri 7am-5pm, Sat 7am-3pm XMA MAS: Tue/Wed 7am-4pm, Thurs Thurs/Frri 7am-5pm, Sat 7am-3pm, Su un 9am-1pm, Xmas Evve 8am-1pm
KLmagazine December 2018
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Winenotes Robert Harrison
KL magazine speaks to of Cazalet Harrison Wine Merchants for what’s tickling his tastebuds this season... PICTURE: MARK ASHBY / ASHBYSHOOTS.CO.UK
lees ageing. Soft balanced tropical fruit with wonderful weight; slightly spicy and mineral notes, whilst still maintaining a fresh acidity: a baby Condrieu at the fraction of the price.
Red recommendations... For a red, Pinot Noir is a good place to start due to the softer tannins from the grape. You have some classical regions of Burgundy with a bit more depth but California produces some exceptional wines. The Crusher winery produce a Pinot Noir with distinctive earthy and cranberry notes. The wine is smooth and graceful with soft tannins, fruity with flavours of red fruits, dark chocolate, violets and slightly smoky notes from the ten-month oak ageing.
To finish...
Wines to savour this Christmas
hen it comes to Christmas there is no right or wrong as far as wine is concerned. There are certain wines with particularly festive connotations such as Sherry, Port and Champagne, though it’s also about maximising that ‘something special’ you have tucked away. Working with wine I always find it exciting to explore areas less well known, that can offer great value but don’t compromise on quality. The following wines are suggested for Christmas but different to the usual wines:
To start... Sparkling wine or Champagne is a nice way to kick off proceedings. A small appellation called Limoux in Languedoc - Roussillon was in fact the first appellation to produce sparkling wines, around 1500 (more than a century before Dom Perignon’s KLmagazine December 2018
“drinking the stars”). In Limoux the wine is called Blanquette de Limoux –it’s made from the Mauzac grape variety and Chateau Rives – Blanques is arguably one of the finest examples. Limoux is slightly higher in altitude; resulting in a cooler climate which particularly suits sparkling wines.
For an alternative to a port, a glass of Pedro Ximenez is the perfect accompaniment for Christmas Pudding. Pedro Ximenez is a grape variety normally found in the south of Spain and usually dried in the sun to concentrate the sugary juice before fermenting. Ageing in a Solera system for a number of years makes the juice very thick, with raisins, dates, dark cherries all on the palate - Christmas Pudding in glass form!
Christmas dinner... If you’re having turkey, wine-pairing can be a challenge. Rich white wines can work wonderfully, though if you do prefer a red, one with fewer tannins would be best. Xavier Gerard took over his father’s estate Domaine Gerard in the Rhone Valley in 2012, but in his twenties he bought his own vineyard just outside of the appellation of Condrieu, and this was released under his name. The wine is a Viognier IGP and has a tiny production of just 3500 bottles; a full wine with richness of the grape and
www.chwinemerchants.co.uk rob@chwinemerchants.co.uk 07917095068
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Celebrating 55 years of our family businesss
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Restaurantreview
The new look Bishops of Chapel St.
F
ew pubs have been as much a part of the local landscape than Bishops of Chapel St. in King's Lynn, which was built over 500 years ago and was trading as Ye Olde Lattice Inn as early as 1714. I'd known it as The Lattice House for years, but it had been some time since my last visit. I was really interested to see what a new name and a new management team could bring to this distinctive old building. We were greeted with smiles and a very friendly welcome before manager Graham Ridgwell showed us to our table, which was next to a lovely roaring open fire. The interior is quite simply stunning, and recent renovation work has restored the original wooden
KLmagazine December 2018
beams whilst giving the pub a refreshingly modern new look remaining respectful to the timber framed, grade II listed building. “We wanted to move away from cheap beer and football screens and into refined dining,” Graham told us, "and we're now a contemporary gastro pub." We were kindly given a cocktail made especially for us. Named the KL Mag Kick, the delicious combination of pink gin, vodka, grenadine and Bacardi looked beautiful - and it tasted even better! “We have an experienced and trained mixologist and serve a range of classic cocktails as well as our own creations,” explains Graham. “We’ll be mixing special Christmas cocktails throughout December." To start, we ordered the Gin Cured Salmon and Ham Hock Terrine, both of which were beautifully presented and tasted superb. Next, we were treated to Pork Tenderloin and Chicken Supreme. My pork was incredibly tender, and accompanied by a delightful roasted butternut squash risotto. My friend was equally impressed with her chicken dish, describing it as indulgent, creamy and crisp. We were keen to give our compliments to the chef so were delighted when he came out to meet us. Appropriately named Adam Cook (A.
Cook - you couldn’t make it up!), he trained at Christ Church college at Oxford University and has a great passion for food. “My cooking comes from my heart and soul,” he told us. “I bring in Italian flavours and classic French tastes and use my experience to put together exciting dishes.” We were further spoilt when we tasted Adam’s desserts. His sticky toffee pudding is something really quite special, served with butterscotch sauce and Chantilly cream. Adam makes it with dates and prunes, which adds a whole new dimension to this classic dessert. Don't miss his brilliant chocolate brownie either - served with vanilla ice cream – or the warm treacle tart served with crème fraîche. Both are sheer delights. We were particularly impressed with Adam's commitment to keeping his food as light as possible - all his dishes are either gluten free (or can be made so) and he's currently working on a range of vegan dishes. The motto of Bishops of Chapel St. is that people "arrive as strangers, leave as friends", and after a brilliant dining experience with delicious food and friendly service I’ve certainly made friends with this charming pub. It may be a part of King's Lynn's history, but it's certainly got a very bright future.
BISHOPS OF CHAPEL ST. Chapel Street, King’s Lynn PE30 1EG Telephone: 01553 769585 Web: www.bishopsofchapelst.co.uk 77
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Kings Arms Coaching Inn
FESTIVE DINING FUN!
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For larger groups we can offer Festive Buffets & Private Hire areas for your Christmas doos.
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attons Chris £16.50 tmas After noon T pp ava ila ea (exclud ble pre-booke in d daily g Extra S Saturda p ys) £20.50 ecial Festive pp Satu rdays 1 Afternoon Te , a 8 , 15 an Festiv d 29th e Sunday set price m e 2 cours to Thursday nu es £20 n or 3 co ights NYE B urses £ ottomle 25 s s Brun £26pp ch Clu Mond b 10am – ay 31st 2pm
strattons hotel with self catering, restaurant, café deli and lifestyle/interiors shop
boutique luxurious classic contemporary heart of norfolk award winning restaurant afternoon tea cocoes café deli self catering Luxury without sacrifice to the environment ash close swaffham norfolk pe37 7nh 01760 723845 enquiries@strattonshotel.com www.strattonshotel.com
BOOK - 01760 723244 www.kingsarmscoachinginn.co.uk kingsarmscopperhorse@gmail.com
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The heart of Christmas is having special times with family and friends. We wish all of our customers old a new a happy healthy and joy filled Christmas from all of the team at the Quay Centre Experts in designing and installing beautiful kitchens, bathrooms and bedrooms to suit all tastes and budgets • Free design and survey • Trade & new build accounts available • Supply only or full installation service
Address 28-31a North End, Wisbech, Cambs, PE13 1PE | Tel 01945 476797 | Fax 01945 463495 | Web www.quaycentre.co.uk
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INGREDIENTS
Festive apple meringue cake
Makes 8
Meringues 50g egg whites 100g caster sugar Vanilla sponge 400g butter • 400g caster sugar • 8 eggs • 400g selfraising flour, sifted • 1 tsp vanilla extract Apple buttercream 2 cooking apples, peeled and chopped • 250g unsalted butter • 400g icing sugar • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon White chocolate ganache 200g white chocolate 75g double cream
1
First make the meringues. Preheat oven to 80°C. Whisk the egg whites in a clean bowl until stiff and slowly add 100g caster sugar. Continue whisking until the sugar has dissolved. Spoon the meringue into a piping bag fitted with a star nozzle and pipe onto a baking sheet into 2cm stars. Cook for four hours until firm. Allow to cool in the oven and then transfer into an air-tight container.
2
Next make the sponge. Pre-heat oven to 180°C. Grease and line a 20cm square cake tin. Cream the butter and 400g caster sugar together until light and fluffy. Beat in one egg at a time, then stir in the flour and vanilla. Transfer into a prepared tin and bake for around 25 minutes until cooked. Allow to cool.
3
To make the buttercream. Place the apples into a pan with a splash of water and the cinnamon and cook on a low heat until soft. Allow to cool and purée in a food blender. Cream the butter in a mixer and slowly add the 400g icing
sugar, beat until smooth and add the apple purée to this mixture.
4
To make the white chocolate ganache, place the cream into a pan and bring to the boil. Take off the heat and add the white chocolate and stir until smooth. Allow to cool.
5
cut the cooled sponge into four equal layers. Spread one quarter of butter cream on the bottom layer and cover with another layer of sponge. Repeat this process until the cake is stacked up with the four sponge layers with buttercream in between. Spread a thin layer of buttercream on the top of the stack and place the cake in the fridge. Once hardened, spread the white chocolate ganache on top and place back in the fridge. Once cooled, cut into eight neat rectangles using a sharp knife and place the meringues on top of each stack. Dust with edible gold shimmer and serve with vanilla ice cream and poached blueberries.
RECI PE BY J ULES HETHERTON, EXECUTI VE CHEF AT STRATTONS Ash Close, Swaffham PE37 7NH Tel: 01760 723845 Web: www.strattonshotel.co.uk KLmagazine December 2018
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PICTURES: Galton Blackiston, David Holliday and Rob Moody examining Clear Choice Barley (above). Galton finishing the dish he matched with his No. 1 Lager (left)
Michelin Star chef launches two new beers
Galton Blackiston knows everything there is to know about food and has held a Michelin star for 20 years. Now he’s turned his skills to beer and has produced his own lager and ale...
G
alton Blackiston has plenty to smile about. He’s the owner and chef at Morston Hall in Holt, which is one of Britain’s leading country hotels; he also owns No. 1 Cromer Fish and Chip Shop and Restaurant, which consistently receives rave reviews; he’s a regular face on TV, frequently appearing alongside James Martin on ITV on Saturday Morning; he’s written four books, and as if that’s not enough, he’s now produced his own beer! Is there any end to this man’s talents? We catch up with the down-to-earth Norfolk chef and he tells us all about his new venture.
KLmagazine December 2018
KL magazine: How did you come to produce beer?
Galton Blackiston: It was a lucky thing and came about by mistake really. Next to Morston Hall there are plenty of fields that grow barley for beer production and it got me thinking. At No. 1 (Galton’s Fish and Chip shop in Cromer) we have a local guy who has been supplying local craft beers for some time and they’re really good. In the past I haven’t taken much notice of beer, but once I discovered these, I became interested. Lots of people enjoy beer with fish and chips and they sell really well at my Cromer restaurant, so I thought we should perhaps do our own beer.
How did the idea become a reality? I got speaking to David Holliday from Norfolk Brewhouse and asked him if he’d be interested in collaborating and doing a beer together. He said, “I’d be more than interested - I’d love to do it with you!”
KL magazine: How did you go about deciding on the beer?
Galton Blackiston: Like with most things, I won’t just put my name to anything. I’ve got to look into it properly and make sure it’s right. That’s just part of me. So I got together with David and worked on it for about 18 months. 81
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“It was a real Forrest Gump moment. I stumbled upon it and then found out craft beer is one of the fastest growing industries.” - Galton Blackiston
ABOVE: Galton turns the Maris Otter on Crisp's floor maltings
KL magazine: What process did you go through to make the beer?
Galton Blackiston: David asked me what my ideal beer would be like and I said I’d want it not too gassy and certainly not too hoppy. I’d like it a little bit sweet. I wanted a beer I could drink all night if I wanted to! Next, the head brewer at Norfolk Brewhouse, Bruce Ash, came over with different combinations of hops for me to smell and taste. I kept saying that it was alright, but it wasn’t exactly what I wanted. I think I was quite a pain! Through their experience we eventually got to the stage where I was happy with the lager - and then we moved on to the pale ale! We worked with Crisp Maltings, based in Great Ryburgh, who turned the barley from Morston into malted barley. I was able to work with them and be hands on and I really enjoyed the whole process.
KL magazine: When was your beer finally ready?
Galton Blackiston: We launched it in June this year and I’m really pleased with it. It’s brilliant! It was a real Forrest Gump moment. I stumbled upon it and then found out
82
that craft beer is one of the fastest growing industries in the country.
KL magazine: You named your beers Galton’s No.
Galton Blackiston: 1 Norfolk Lager and Galton’s No. 1 Norfolk Ale which ties in nicely with your No. 1 Cromer Fish and Chip Restaurant. Is it available from anywhere else? At the moment, it’s available from No. 1 Cromer, Morston Hall, Satchells in Burnham Market and Beers of Europe. I recently had a call from someone who owns over 100 pubs asking me to supply the beer, but I’ve got to be able to produce it consistently. I don’t ever want things to go out of hand until I’m happy with it, but I may sell it further afield in the future. I’d never say never if there are people out there who want it. KL magazine: Is it true you have created an ice cream as well?
LEFT: The Norfolk Brewhouse Christmas Gift Pack, available from Beers of Europe, is centered around Galton Blackiston's No. 1 Ale & Lager
KL magazine: And we hear you have also produced a champagne?
Galton Blackiston: I had a big ambition to talk to some of the champagne houses, so I went to Reims, which is the unofficial capital of the Champagne wine-growing region. I found a producer and they agreed to supply some champagne for Morston Hall. I’m really happy with it. KL magazine: You have certainly been busy. What’s next?
Galton Blackiston: I’m going to be on James Martin’s Christmas show on ITV on 22nd December with Chris Evans and Clare Smyth. There’s also another TV show in the pipeline and I’m working on another exciting project, but I can’t give you any details just yet! We can’t wait to hear more. Watch this space!
Galton Blackiston: Yes! When you make a beer, the spent malted barley is often given to cattle for feed, but we wondered what else we could do with it. So we made an ice cream that is quite incredible and tastes of Maltesers. I’m going to sell it at No. 1, but once again it was just another happy mistake!
KLmagazine December 2018
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Celebrate the New Ye ear in style tyle
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KLmagazine December 2018
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KLmagazine December 2018
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With all the rain and mud, the winter months can really take their toll on natural stone floors, and with the festive season fast approaching they may not offer the most appealing welcome to your Christmas guests. Natural stone and solid wood floors may look fantastic when they're first laid, but they'll inevitably lose their good looks over time – until eventually your beautiful slate or limestone floor will need a lot more than a mop and some elbow grease to bring it back to its best. A high quality and professionally-laid stone floor deserves some extra care, and that’s when you'll be needing the professional cleaning services of Martin King and his Swaffham-based team at Xtraclean. “Various deposits, stains and dirt will gradually build up on your floors
throughout the year, and traditional cleaning methods will become increasingly ineffective,” says Martin. “Grout lines can be especially difficult, and that’s why we use a revolutionary and powerful cleaning system to safely restore heavily-soiled wood and stone floors - including the tiles and grout to ‘as-new’ brilliance. And the even better news is that we can usually do it in a single visit!” For over 20 years, Xtraclean has been offering a reliable, friendly and fullyinsured service that covers the whole of Norfolk with a team of highly skilled, highly trained and highly knowledgeable technicians – all dedicated to keeping your floors looking as bright and fresh as the day they were laid. Following an initial survey and test, Xtraclean will get to work (they'll even move the furniture for you!) breaking down ingrained dirt and loosening surface soiling. Xtraclean’s state-of-
the-art turbo clean & capture system will then thoroughly pressure clean the floor – using its own water supply and capturing all the waste in the process. The results are spectacular, and are achieved without using procedures such as grinding and resurfacing which can damage your floor. “We can professionally seal your floors for added protection and to help keep those good looks for longer,” says Martin. ”And if you're looking for a truly stunning finish we can even re-polish and buff highly-honed surfaces if required!” So what’s the secret to offering such a high quality floor cleaning service? “We simply use the most advanced technology and the most professional products on the market today,” says Martin, “and the results really do speak for themselves!” For extra good-looking floors this Christmas, Xtraclean is all you need to know.
Unit 3, Jack Boddy Way, Swaffham PE37 7HJ Tel: 01760 337762 Web: www.xtraclean.co.uk E-mail: sales@xtraclean.co.uk
KLmagazine December 2018
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The young Norfolk film makers bringing Black Shuck to the screen
ABOVE: Josh Trett (left) and his brother Matthew have spent the last year producing The Black Shuck, which is now available on Amazon Prime
Last Christmas, Josh Trett was inspired to make a short film after being given a bottle of Black Shuck gin. Now, he and his brother are celebrating the success of the film they produced about the local legend
A
s children, Josh and Matthew Trett always had a passion for films. At their family home in Freethorpe they often borrowed their parents’ video recorder and shot short films, roping in friends as actors. Now aged 25 and 23, the brothers are as passionate about producing films as ever. They've set up their own production company – Trett Films – which produces professional video content ranging from short films to corporate productions. Their work has picked up multiple awards and has played in cinemas across the UK, KLmagazine December 2018
Europe, USA and Canada. The most recent production from Trett Films is a short film called The Black Shuck, which is already making waves in the film industry. “I was looking through some films I made when I was younger and found myself really appreciating the Norfolk countryside," says Josh. "I knew I wanted to shoot something in the areas in which I grew up, but I didn’t know exactly what. ” Inspiration duly arrived on Christmas Day last year when his brother's girlfriend bought Josh a bottle of Black Shuck gin.
"As I looked at it, I remembered hearing about the legend of Black Shuck and everything seemed to come together," says Josh. "It was a great story and featured the amazing Norfolk countryside I filmed in when I was younger.” In fact, Josh was so enthusiastic he immediately set about researching the ghoulish tale of 87
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ABOVE: Josh Trett with Holby City actress Rebecca Grant during the filming of The Black Shuck in Norfolk earlier this year
the ghostly black dog and managed to produce a first draft script later on Christmas Day! Josh and Matthew both have fulltime jobs; Josh is a senior video producer at a digital media company in Norwich, and Matthew is a video producer for a Norwich-based entrepreneur with multiple businesses and with Trett Films being a side venture for the brothers it was important to raise funds to finance the film. Appropriately enough, Black Shuck gin came on board as a sponsor for the film, and with contributions from various other local investors they found themselves with a budget of £1,000. “Most of the budget went on locations, camera equipment, food for the cast and crew, and travel expenses," says Josh. "We couldn't have made the film without people’s time and favours and we're very grateful for them giving their time for free." Josh’s original script featured a male lead, but when Holby City actress Rebecca Grant agreed to star in the film (she'd recently moved to Norfolk) he re-wrote the script with a female lead, focusing the film on a grieving mother. “When I was doing research into the legend, I found Black Shuck was often believed to act as a guardian to lonely women and I decided a maternal theme would be really strong,” says Josh. “There’s something awful and dark about a grieving mother, so I was 88
conscious of being sensitive to those things. Looking back, it’s hard to imagine there was ever a different version of the script!” The film was shot in North Walsham, Norwich, Wroxham, Whitlingham Broad and Old Catton over two days and an evening, with Josh directing, Matthew doing the camerawork and several friends offering support. Josh cut and edited the film himself, trimming the footage down to 12 minutes as he feels it’s far better for a film to be too short than too long since every scene needs to be essential to the piece. The completed film is now being distributed to film festivals around the world and is available to watch on Amazon Prime. Josh and Matthew are proud of their local roots. They grew up in Norfolk and both studied in Norwich – Josh studied film production at Norwich University of the Arts and Matthew did a media learning course at City College. Josh insists that Norfolk is perfect for film makers. “A lot of people say you need to go to London to get a career in video or film, but we feel lucky that we're based in Norfolk," he says. "We're really spoilt for locations. Norwich is a great city, and it's surrounded by coastal areas, countryside, and Great Yarmouth which is a great backdrop to a film. If you'll excuse the pun, the 'big dogs' in the industry are starting to take notice of Norfolk now - Danny Boyle shot a
film here recently. In terms of locations it’s really inspiring and there’s a lot of choice.” It’s great to see two young Norfolk film producers turning their dreams into a reality. Their aspiration is for The Black Shuck to become a feature length film and for Trett Films to grow as a production company and become their full-time career. And we wish them all the best. The Black Shuck is available on Amazon Prime, and for more information on Trett Films and their work to date, please see www.trettfilms.com
KLmagazine December 2018
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ABOVE: A young owl receives some much-needed help from the RSPCA Wildlife Centre at East Winch – just one of almost 5,000 animals the centre cared for last year
The local team on the side of Norfolk’s wildlife On average, the RSPCA Wildlife Centre at East Winch cares for 12 animals and birds every single day of the year. We take a closer look at their amazing work in saving our local wildlife
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wenty years ago, the distemper virus affected seals around our shores and brought many emaciated mammals to the beaches of north Norfolk. The plight of these helpless creatures touched the hearts of animal lovers everywhere, and the local Mill House Veterinary Group took over the disused council bus depot in Docking and worked around the clock with volunteers (and the help of the RSPCA and Greenpeace) to treat the animals and contain the virus. Encouraged by their work, the RSPCA then purchased and converted an old farm building designed to safeguard all wildlife – and East Winch Wildlife Centre was born. Now starring in the television show 'Saving Britain's
KLmagazine December 2018
Wildlife', the centre has come a very long way indeed since then. Centre Manager Alison Charles says it cared for 4,657 animals and birds last year – and 1,000 of those were hedgehogs. This year the team has already seen its fair share of hedgehogs in need of treatment; from garden strimmer and netting injuries to those dehydrated from the unusually dry summer – and they’re expecting more. “Autumn is a particularly busy time for us with young hedgehogs,” she says. “Often they’re too small to hibernate, and we can have as many as 300 in care over the winter if the weather is really cold.” From tiny bats weighing little more than 4g to grey seals weighing anything up to 300kg, there’s always an animal
requiring attention. In the half hour she spoke to us, Alison and her team welcomed three new arrivals – a swan wrapped under the arm of an RSPCA driver, a wood pigeon and a goldfinch. This A&E unit for animals is packed with modern technology – including a specially-designed intensive care unit, a fully-equipped operating theatre and a dedicated x-ray unit providing the best in diagnostic analysis. Outside you’ll find a range of large pools, pens, waterfowl paddocks and aviaries - and even a deep water tank where the diving ability of rescued sea birds is monitored. “The aim of the centre is to rescue, rehabilitate and release British wildlife back into the wild,” says Alison. “Keeping the animals as ‘natural’ as 91
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“We’ve done some amazing work, but we can’t sit on our laurels We still have a lot to learn and a long way to go” possible is vital to their survival, so we try to keep human contact to a minimum.” No sooner has she spoken than there’s another arrival at the centre. This time, it’s a delivery of three pallets of fish. Depending on how many seals are in care, the centre’s fish order can be up to six tons a month – and when an orphaned seal pup has three daily feedings of 3kg it makes for quite an expensive shopping list. Hitting the headlines recently was a grey seal nicknamed Mrs. Frisbee, who was rescued from Horsey with a plastic frisbee ring embedded in her neck. Malnourished, dehydrated, and with an extensive deep and infected neck wound, she was a perfect example of why plastic pollution is such a growing concern. “She grew fitter every day at the centre, but the day of her release was entirely dependent on whether she could extend her neck properly to seek her own food,” says Alison. “Thankfully she could, and was released into the sea at Horsey close to where she’d been rescued.” One of the centre’s main supporters is the Katherine Martin Charitable Trust which, together with public donations and other fundraising events, is now funding the building of two new aviary blocks with 16 flights for recuperating birds. “In the past, the Trust has donated a 96ft flight aviary which we now use for the final rehabilitation for birds of prey and herons,” says Alison. “We also use CCTV prior to release to assess the
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flight and the behaviour of the birds.” The centre relies on regular volunteers to help nurse and care for the animals, maintain the grounds, and sort through the donated towels and newspapers left in the yellow bins provided at the centre’s entrance. Funds are also raised through clothing and glass recycling banks. Alison is justly proud of the results achieved at the centre and the dedication of her 21 full- and part-time staff and band of volunteers – but there’s still work to be done. ”We’ve done some amazing work, but we can’t sit on our laurels,” she says. “With so many different species of wildlife requiring our help we still have a lot to learn and we’ve still got a long way to go.’ East Winch Wildlife Centre is open all year round and admits animals between 8am-9pm. The RSPCA receives no state aid and is run solely by charity funding. If you’d like to help care for Norfolk’s sick, injured and orphaned wildlife you can follow the centre on either Facebook at rspcawildlife or Instagram at rspca_east_winch.
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Animalmatters
Our monthly look at the issues concerning you and your pets at London Road & Hollies Vets...
Smallbites
Don’t forget your pet’s routine preventative healthcare over Christmas. Keep up with regular flea and worm treatments as fleas love central heating! If you have not already joined our Pet Health Club you may want to consider this to take advantage of the fantastic savings on offer. Unless of course your pet is on Santa’s naughty list…
Keep your pets safe at Christmas
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t London Road and the Hollies we are all looking forward to Christmas. A well-earned break for some of us after a very busy year and the opportunity to spend quality time with our families. We will of course be going out together as a team to celebrate Christmas. It’s these social events that strengthen the bond we have, which are so important in this profession. We hope that you and your pets have a wonderful time too, although be aware that seasonal greediness can be a serious issue for our pets. The number of potentially poisonous items we have in our homes increases at this time of year, from essential oils and batteries to antifreeze and glow sticks. Lots of dogs and sometimes cats visit us every year having snaffled something tasty they really shouldn’t have, so please look out for the following dangers which could make your pet ill and in some cases life threatening: • Chocolate, we love it at any time of year, but at Christmas we have advent
calendars, selection boxes, cakes, cocoa powder, and tree novelties, sometimes placed too easily for an inquisitive dog. Many dogs will seemingly escape harm, but others can become very ill with just a little chocolate. It can cause theobromine poisoning, leading to agitation, overexcitement, and in serious cases heart problems that require treatment urgently. • Grapes, raisins, sultanas and currants can all cause problems, especially in dogs. So, guard your Christmas cake and those mince pies as ingestion of these can lead to kidney failure. • Flowers are often brought into our homes at this time of year and it’s important to remember that lilies can be highly toxic for your pets, especially cats. Even small amounts of contact or ingesting the pollen can cause kidney damage. The message is - keep pets and lilies apart. Evergreens too, “the holly and the ivy”, can also be potentially harmful, so take care especially with young dogs; never trust
LONDON ROAD Hospital Walk, King’s Lynn Tel: 01553 773168 HOLLIES Paradise Road, Downham Market Tel: 01366 386655
KLmagazine December 2018
a puppy! • Cold and flu remedies and those seasonal hangover treatments will typically contain Paracetamol, Aspirin, Codeine or Ibuprofen in various combinations and can cause vomiting, gastric ulcers and again potential kidney problems, so keep these safely out of harm’s way. Please don’t forget your small hutch pets this winter. The temperature can fluctuate at this time of year, with some warmer days that don’t feel cold at all, but some days when rabbit and guinea pig water bottles could be frozen. Check them daily, they will almost certainly benefit from extra bedding, being moved inside or covered well, to keep warm. We want you to enjoy Christmas as much as we intend to, so with a bit of thought and care we can all have a safe and happy Christmas with those we love the most including the pets in our lives.
Email: info@londonroadvets.co.uk Web: www.londonroadvets.co.uk
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Give your garden birds a festive feast this winter Garden birds are extremely vulnerable over winter, especially if the ground is frozen – but there are several ways you can help them survive, as Wendy Warner of Thaxters Garden Centre explains
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t’s likely we’ll be spending a lot less time in the garden as the days shorten and the weather gets colder, but our garden birds won’t mind. Without us disturbing them, birds will be happy to forage amongst fallen leaves and in newly-dug borders collecting live food in the form of bugs, grubs and worms, not to mention the berries, fruit and windfalls that may still be available on trees and hedges. As frosts, cold winds and snow 94
set in and natural food and water sources become scarce, they’ll then rely on us to supplement their diet by providing the supplies they need. Birds need to fatten up in winter to get through the colder nights, but although you may think any food will do, certain foods should be avoided and others will be very valuable. If you want to help your feathered friends, position several feeding sites around the garden to prevent the
overcrowding of one location – and site them near to shrubs or hedges to offer protection. Whilst many birds will use a feeder, others prefer a bird table or ground feeder. If you’re limited for space, a purpose-made feeding station can provide hooks for a selection of hanging feeders in addition to a platform for food and a water dish. Put out food routinely so birds include you on their daily feeding routes, and position your feeders so KLmagazine December 2018
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“Although you may think any food will do, certain foods should be avoided – and others will be very valuable” you can enjoy watching them from your house. Replenish the food supplies regularly (preferably first thing in the morning and early afternoon) to avoid the build up of stale food that can harbour germs and diseases and may also encourage vermin. Clean your feeders frequently with water and a mild disinfectant, leaving them to dry thoroughly before refilling. Birds also need fresh water for both drinking and bathing, which keeps their feathers in pristine condition and helps them keep warm through the cold nights. Keep your birdbaths filled and remember to add a little warm water to defrost them on frosty mornings – or float a small ball on the surface to avoid freezing. Don’t be tempted to use chemicals as this can poison the birds or coat their feathers, stopping them being waterproof. Although birds such as Robins appear small and vulnerable, they’re built to adapt to the winter weather. Their outer wing feathers stay cold so snow won’t melt on them and make the bird wet. They’ll fluff up their lower feathers to create pockets of warmth next to their vital organs and their head can be tucked under plumage at night to preserve heat. Also, that famous red breast acts as a warning to other birds to stay away from the food supplies. During the winter, high-energy (high fat) foods are essential for birds, but not all fats are good. Avoid leftover fat from cooking, margarine and anything that contains high salt or artificial sweeteners. Instead, choose fat balls, suet treats and other blocks or rolls specially designed to provide birds with excellent nutrition. Peanuts and sunflower hearts are also high in oil (another good source of energy) but don’t be tempted to use those intended for humans, as these will be salty. KLmagazine December 2018
ABOVE: Goldfinches (top) are particularly partial to niger seeds, although you’ll need a special feeder as the seeds themselves are so fine. Blackbirds meanwhile (bottom) are partial to fruit and berries and often prefer eating at ground level 95
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ABOVE: Whether your garden is popular with Siskins, Greenfinches (below top) or House Sparrows (below bottom) choosing the right food and the right feeder is essential to ensure the birds get the most benefit and maximum nutrition
Some smaller birds need to eat 3040% of their body weight every day to survive the winter, so providing high energy foods in the simplest possible way is most important. Birds will also require other seeds to give them a balanced diet. Experiment with different seeds and mixes until you find the ones most popular with your birds. Generally, members of the tit family will feed on seed blends, sunflower hearts, peanuts and mealworms from a hanging feeder. Greenfinches enjoy seed mixes, sunflower hearts or black sunflower seeds, as will goldfinches – which are particularly partial to niger seed, although you’ll need a special feeder for those as the seeds are so fine. Chaffinches will eat from the ground or bird table and choose seed, mealworms and finely-chopped peanuts – but note that peanuts should only be whole when in a feeder as they can cause birds to choke. Blackbirds love fruit and berries as well as most seed mixes, and robins are lovers of mealworms, fruit and sunflower hearts – and both will be happy with ground feeders or bird tables. 96
High protein dried mealworms will appeal to most insect-eating birds when live food isn’t available, and if you’re having problems with seedlings growing below your feeders choose a ‘no-grow’ mix which contains no germinating seeds or husks. The extensive wild bird care department in the newly-opened retail area at Thaxters Garden Centre offers a great selection of feeds, feeders and bird tables. As well as the popular practical options, there are some wonderfully decorative items that would make great Christmas gifts, welcomed by any bird lover. Wendy Warner is Manager of Thaxters Garden Centre at 49 Hunstanton Road, Dersingham PE31 6NA. Visit the website at www.thaxters.co.uk or telephone 01485 541514.
YOU AND YOUR GARDEN
If you’d like some inspiration for your garden – no matter how large or small – or have a particular issue or variety of plant you’d like Wendy to look at, please contact us at info@klmagazine.co.uk.
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Better for your home, garden and wildlife
Why a natural hedge professionally designed and planted by Heritage Tree Specialists is a far better option than a fence...
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he depths of winter may seem like an odd time to be planting hedges, but it’s actually the best time of the year to think about a natural alternative to a fence as a way of protecting your property’s boundary, shielding your garden and attracting wildlife to it. “Because young plants will be dormant until next March, planting them now is actually better for them,” says Dan Ashton of Heritage Tree Specialists in King’s Lynn. “And because bare-root trees are only available over the winter, planting a hedgerow now is much cheaper than at any other time of the year when you’ll have to rely on expensive container-grown plants.” Dan and his fully-trained and highlyexperienced team has over 25 years’ experience in professional tree care, and can design a
single-species formal hedge or a mixed hedge using native trees such as hawthorn, blackthorn, field maple, hazel and Guelder rose. And if you're wondering why you'd ever choose a hedge over a fence, you may be surprised. “There are plenty of advantages a professionally-designed and planted hedgerow has over a fence,” says Dan. “They’re more cost-effective, they have a longer lifespan, they’re not governed by a 6ft limit, and they provide an excellent habitat for attracting wildlife to your garden. Yes, you may have to trim it once a year - but that's a lot more enjoyable than staining and repairing a fence!" In addition to providing a strong windbreak (especially for coastal properties) and being more efficient in cutting down noise, the spines and thorns of a natural hedge can
be a better deterrent against unwanted human visitors than an easily-climbable fence. Heritage Tree Specialists will visit your home and select the right trees for the property – based on local soil conditions, the ultimate size of the hedges, their location, their colours, and the future role you expect them to play in the garden. Dan and his team can also help you maintain them – and even breathe new life into old hedges. “Native hedgerows are largely resistant to the various pests that affect conifers such as Leylandii,” says Dan, “and there are plenty of poorlymaintained and neglected hedges out there. With a little care and some professional attention we can rejuvenate them back into an attractive and manageable state.” To start your home’s greener future now, contact Heritage Tree Specialists today for more details and information, free written quotations and a professional service you can trust.
Heritage Tree Specialists
T: 01553 617008 | W: www.heritagetreespecialists.co.uk E: info@heritagetreespecialists.co.uk | Willow Farm Industrial Units, Saddlebow, King’s Lynn PE34 3AR
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“
When a person needs our help, we try to identify their immediate needs and help them access the support they need...
”
- Paula Hall The Purfleet Trust
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ABOVE: Founded as a charity in 1993 to provide help for single homeless people in King’s Lynn and West Norfolk, the Purfleet Trust’s services now include housing advice and a Health and Wellbeing Centre providing a daily hot meal and the opportunity to gain essential life skills
Celebrating 25 years of helping the homeless
25 years ago the Purfleet Trust began their quest to rid King’s Lynn of homelessness, and a lot has happened since. We take a look at what they've achieved and their hopes for the future…
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or a quarter of a century, the goal of the Purfleet Trust has been to help people find and settle into accommodation as a first step towards stable employment. To do this, the trust has established pathway training houses for single, homeless people to allow them to learn how to be responsible tenants. They’re hoping this method will allow homeless people who want to change their lives for the better prepare for the future - when they could potentially be living in self-contained or shared accommodation. Once the trust has helped them to settle into new accommodation, they’re able to step in once again to aid in finding work, providing the necessary training on writing CVs and applying for jobs KLmagazine December 2018
effectively. The trust even offers advice on correct interview attire and provides transport to and from interviews. Thanks to the trust, homeless people are able to properly prepare for the world of work with the trust’s in-house Learn2Earn scheme. The programme’s been very successful so far, with 53 of the people in the trust’s care moving into work over the last two years. Everyone at the Purfleet shares the same ethos, and it’s one that underlines their entire approach: believe in the person until they believe in themselves. The charity has now officially moved into their new purpose-built premises to continue providing the best possible care and support to the people who need it the most. Because as much as we like to think
of Norfolk as a safe haven, the issue of homelessness is just as pressing here as it is in more populous parts of the country. Over the last 25 years, the Purfleet Trust has made a tremendous impact on the number of people living on our streets, but even they admit there’s still a lot of work to be done. In their mission to eradicate homelessness in King’s Lynn, the trust believes the main stepping stone for people to get back into ‘normal’ life is stable employment. “Work is vital to a person's wellbeing and the Learn2Earn programme helps them build ‘stamina’ for work” says the trust’s Paula Hall. “Through this, they’re able to learn how to meet the demands of employment and develop and maintain a routine”. 101
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The employability programme is run on-site by Lucy Shaw, who mentors people on a one-on-one or small group basis to ensure they’re well prepared and ready for work. From experience, the trust understands that each homeless person has different needs – most struggle to engage with others and feel excluded from society, whilst some have incredibly complex needs such as mental health concerns, problems surrounding substance addiction and abuse and a history of crime. “When a person needs our help we try to identify their immediate needs and help them to access the support they need,” says Paula. “We can then help by empowering them to make the decisions that will have a more longer term positive impact on their lives. We can’t achieve this in isolation. We’re fortunate to work with our partners in West Norfolk including mental health, drug and alcohol and domestic violence and abuse services who provide the specialist advice and support needed to help a person achieve their personal goals.” The Purfleet Trust has also formed relationships with local businesses who provide continuous support, and Freebridge Community Housing and the Borough Council of King’s Lynn & West Norfolk, who’ve made housing available to homeless people ready to move into more permanent accommodation. The trust is proud to have helped people acquire the Trusted Tenant Accredited Programme Level 1, which not only indicates the person is ready to move into accommodation and live independently, but also instills a great amount of confidence – and provides landlords in the private sector with the means to view them as trustworthy tenants. “Once people are involved in the trust, they’ll always have our support,” says Paula. “We encourage them to be independent once they move into permanent accommodation, but we’re always there should they need us”. As you can imagine, winter is a particularly difficult time for homeless people. It’s not only the coldest time of the year, but the Christmas season is a time to be celebrating with loved ones. The Purfleet Trust asks for everyone to be aware of this, and to contact them on 01553 767829 (throughout the year) if they notice anyone sleeping rough. You can learn more about the amazing work of The Purfleet Trust on their website at www.purfleettrust.org.uk.
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ABOVE: At any one time there are over 30 volunteers actively involved with the Purfleet Trust, and every single one plays a vital role in the charity’s many services and activities
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KLmagazine December 2018
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Tom’s familyrecipe
225g self raising flour 60g butter 60g block of margarine 1 egg yolk 50ml whole milk 30g caster sugar 1 jar of sweet mincemeat
How a mince pie makes all the difference Home Instead Senior Care makes a special effort every single day of the year, but always goes the extra mile over Christmas...
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or over 10 years, Home Instead Senior Care has been providing flexible and personalised homecare based on people's specific requirements - which usually centres around enabling them to stay in their community, live under their own roof and continue living by their own rules. The company's caregivers offer home help, companionship, personal care and dementia care - they're all handpicked for their character and values and are expertly trained to support older people and their families. KING’S LYNN 01553 387967 DEREHAM 01362 357974
KLmagazine December 2018
Christmas is one of those times when the services of Home Instead Senior Care are particularly relevant especially when you consider that around 500,000 older people in the UK this year will be spending Christmas Day by themselves. "Christmas is all about families getting together to celebrate, which means it can be a particularly difficult time for elderly people living on their own," says Director Tom McEwan. "And that's why we make a determined effort to ensure they enjoy the festive season.” Back in 2008, Tom's mother
1. Put the flour, sugar, butter and margarine in a bowl and mix together 2. Add the egg yolk and milk and knead together before rolling out evenly 3. Use a large cutter for the bases and a slightly smaller one for the tops 4. Fill generously with mincemeat, add the top and fork four holes in the top 5. Brush with egg yolk and finish with a sprinkling of caster sugar 6. Bake until golden and enjoy!
Jeannette had the idea of baking mince pies for all the company's clients, using a much-loved family recipe handed down by Tom’s grandmother. It's a tradition that continues to this day, and will see Home Instead Senior Care bake almost 1,000 mince pies this year for all its clients, caregivers and other people in the local community in the week before Christmas. "We'll visit every single client and bring them Christmas cards, mince pies and spend some time with them. It makes a huge amount of difference," says Tom. "It's probably our favourite time of year because it's all about caring - and that's at the very heart of everything we do." For more information about Home Instead Senior Care and its services, please call your local office listed below.
HOLT 01263 650 983 www.homeinstead.co.uk/westnorfolk
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A lifetime in music and a passion for guitars... Tony Edwards has been a musician all his life, and from his Fakenham studio and workshop now creates a stunning range of one-off handbuilt guitars
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hile his considerable musical talents may have taken him on tour all over the country and Europe, it was bespoke guitar building that became Tony Edwards’ real passion – and there’s a lot more to a guitar than an hourglass figure and six strings.
KL magazine: Where did your love of music originate from?
Tony Edwards: I got my first record player when I was four, playing my dad’s old records and John Miles’ ‘Rebel’ from Woolworths – which I picked because I liked the cover! I think I had an in-built love of rock ’n’ roll from an early age. KLmagazine December 2018
KL magazine: So what led you to a career in building of guitars?
Tony Edwards: I’d recorded a solo album in July 2009, but despite my efforts I couldn’t find the right guitar to take on tour. I was reminded of my childhood when I tried to build a guitar based on Brian May’s famous ‘Red Special’ with the help of a family friend and that gave me an idea. I sold my Les Paul, bought some tools, and over the winter of 2009 built the guitar I still use today. I then built two junior versions which sold very quickly so it made sense to carry on. KL magazine: What’s been your hardest project to date?
‘vegan’ Les Paul. I don’t usually make copies of production guitars, but this was a new challenge. I had to remove any use of hide glue, nacre (‘mother of pearl’) inlays and any other animal products from the build. It wasn’t as difficult as it sounds, but it did make me consider everything I did in a way I’d never done before.
KL magazine: How long does it take to create a guitar from scratch?
Tony Edwards: It entirely depends on what it is. The average timeframe is about six to eight weeks from the end of the design process to the delivery of the finished guitar.
Tony Edwards: Recently I built a 107
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“Since I generally work on one-off builds it renders technology almost pointless. I always design something unique for every customer...”
KL magazine: Playing the guitar is one thing, but building one is another matter entirely, especially without any formal training. How did you do it?
KL magazine: Guitars aren’t your only musical friends though are they?
Tony Edwards: My father always despaired at my lack of practical skills, so I’m not sure he’d believe what I’m doing now! The process was simply a case of trial and error until I’d developed methods I had confidence in. I’m still constantly updating the way I approach different tasks and learning new skills.
Tony Edwards: When I was seven I was taught to play the drums properly, but I taught myself guitar because I couldn’t practice the drums at home and was desperate to play something! I learned to play the bass out of necessity for home studio work, but the real leap forward was learning to play the organ – although even that was the result of my injured fingertips making the guitar too difficult to play during the healing process!
KL magazine: Of all the guitars you’ve built, what’s your favourite?
KL magazine: Are you still playing for audiences now?
Tony Edwards: I’d have to say it was
the original guitar from when I went on tour, because I can’t make anything to replace it. It’s been across the UK and Europe with me, so I’m kind of stuck with it now! It’s like an old friend.
Tony Edwards: I play a lot of gigs with bands who find themselves a musician short and have my own band I do a few gigs with. But the guitar building and repair shop are my main focus now.
KL magazine: Has the building of guitars changed over the years?
Tony Edwards: I tried to expand the machine tools in the shop, but about six years ago I had a falling-out with a machine planer which removed two of my fingertips. I now try to remove as many machines from the process as possible, using chisels, files and other hand tools. Some of my tools are ancient; in fact, my drawknife is over 100 years old. Another issue is that machinery is there to make reproduction easy, and since I generally work on one-off builds it renders technology almost pointless. I always design something unique for every customer because they all want something different. KL magazine: One of your most recent projects was the ‘Bumblebee’ replica - how did that come about?
Tony Edwards: It was actually born from a piece of wood I’d had hanging around the workshop that needed using up. James Ready from the band Walkway is a friend of mine and he’d been telling me about a £25,000 replica of Eddie Van Halen’s original homebuilt guitar - but my favourite had always been Eddie’s second project The Bumblebee, because of its interesting background, although that’s a story for another day! I researched how the guitar had been built and reproduced it as closely as I could to the one that had been used for Van Halen’s very first headline UK show at the Rainbow Theatre in London.
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KLmagazine December 2018
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They’re a dream to drive. And from only £18,955,* you don’t have to dream. The line-up of Volkswagen SUVs has been designed and engineered to offer the perfect range of models. Fuel efficient, spacious, outstanding performance, ground-breaking technology. Whatever you’re looking for in an SUV, you’ll find it in a Volkswagen. Especially with prices starting at only £18,955, with low rate finance available. Why not call us to arrange a test drive?
Kings Lynn Volkswagen Bergen Way, North Lynn Industrial Estate, Kings Lynn, Norfolk, PE30 2JG. Telephone: 01553 335746. www.kingslynn.volkswagen.co.uk
Part of Marriott Motor Group
Fuel consumption and CO2 emissions figures are obtained under standardised EU test conditions (or in cases of vehicles with WLTP type approval are the NEDC gures derived from WLTP testing). These figures facilitate comparison between different models from different manufacturers but may not represent the actual fuel consumption achieved in ‘real world’ driving conditions. NEDC gures derived from WLTP testing may not be equivalent to figures from NEDC testing so comparisons may be unreliable. More information is available at www.volkswagen. co.uk/owners/wltp. Choice of wheels and other options may affect fuel consumption and emissions data. Official fuel consumption figures for the Volkswagen model range in mpg (litres/100km): urban 25.4 (11.1) – 68.9 (4.1); extra urban 42.2 (6.7) – 85.6 (3.3); combined 35.3 (8.0) – 76.3 (3.7). Combined CO2 emissions 95 – 187g/km. Excludes battery electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles.
*Based on T-Roc S 1.0 TSI 115PS 6-speed Manual. Subject to Status. 18s+. T&Cs apply. Indemnities may be required. Volkswagen Financial Services.
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Inspiration from the heart and art from the soul
OPPOSITE: Naomi Lowry at work in her Norfolk studio, taking inspiration from a family tragedy to create beautiful works of art (above)
Naomi Lowry had always been artistic, but it took a family tragedy to bring her natural talents to the fore. Hers is an inspiring story of how art can help people cope with immeasurable loss and look to the future
W
hen the unimaginable happens, how do you pick yourself up and start to cope with life again? For West Norfolk artist Naomi Lowry, the birth of her stillborn daughter in October 2017 inspired her to pick up her paintbrushes and start painting again after not touching them for many years. Naomi had always been artistic, and attended Nottingham Trent University to study a degree in fine art. After focusing mainly on sculpture and videography, she gained a BA Hons in 2006, but didn’t start to paint or sculpt immediately, as she initially studied to become an art teacher, gaining a Diploma in Further Education in 2010. She got married in the same year, and KLmagazine December 2018
continued working at Bespak in King’s Lynn. Naomi's first daughter India was born in 2014, and life became so busy her art was put on the back burner once again. When she became pregnant again, Naomi remained working as well as looking after her daughter. Her second daughter Ivy was born in October 2017, but was tragically stillborn. “You are still given maternity leave even when you have a stillbirth,” she says, “so this horrendous tragedy gave me time to revive my creative energy and pick up the brush and paint. In a very real way, losing Ivy reignited my passion for art.” Incredibly, Naomi was able to push through the dark days following Ivy’s birth and look for the positive elements
in her life. “As soon as I gave birth I tried to be optimistic and look forward to stop myself from crying,” she says. “I knew it was no one’s fault, but I didn’t want to remain in this big black place.” After seeing spiritual counsellor Lin Delph from New Horizons in King’s Lynn, who helped her see the way forward, Naomi was able to start to focus on her painting again. She feels fortunate to have a skill she could return to. It would have been easy to slump into darkness, and she's well aware that some people in her situation may not have been able to cope in the same way. Indeed, her paintings reflect the way she wants to see the world. “It’s all about the colours and what that brings," she says. "It’s all about 111
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“I want viewers to feel happy when they look at my work. I want their hearts to smile and their bodies to feel warm...” nature, and I want to show people what I see. I come into my studio and want to paint something pretty and light and highlight the things I see around me in this wonderful part of the world.” The majority of Naomi’s paintings are acrylic on wood, although some are finished with high gloss resin. She doesn’t replicate her art on prints or cards, so once a painting is complete it’s gone forever and she has to create some more. But the common thread in all her paintings are the colours, which are bright and strong. In many ways it's her way of coping, and for Naomi it’s Ivy’s legacy. “I see my paintings as gifts from Ivy, and it always comes back to her," she says. "Without her I wouldn't be doing this. I don’t want to feel sad, so I always try to look at the positives.” Also helping her cope is her dog, a lovely Cavapoo called Brian, who Naomi is quick to point out was named by her husband Will – who continues to give her an enormous amount of support and encouragement. “We never meant to get a dog,” she says, “but he's brought us so much joy and fun - and he gives India a little playmate to replace the sister she was expecting to play with.” Naomi is fortunate to have a studio attached to her house. Although life in the studio can be lonely for an artist, Naomi relishes her time there, and now her daughter is at school full time she can work as much as she wants. “I don't mind admitting that I can’t wait to get back after the school drop off and get in here,” she says. “What am I going to create next? It's brought me so much joy, and I appreciate it so much. To be honest, I’m dumbfounded about how many people want to buy paintings from an artist like me.” In the future, Naomi is hoping to 112
exhibit her work in local restaurants around the area and at exhibitions – she’ll be featuring in HOPS, a new restaurant opening in Hunstanton, and displays of her work have already been featured at St Nicholas’ Chapel for Belle’s and during the Hanse Festival. She was artist in residence at the Soul Cafe in King’s Lynn in August 2018, and much of her work is commissioned from friends or other people who have seen her paintings. “I want viewers to feel happy when they look at my work,” she says. “I want their hearts to smile and their bodies to feel warm; I want them to take away a moment - a moment from my mind that shows them how beautifully simple life can be.”
KLmagazine December 2018
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Michael Middleton’s
WildWestNorfolk
A
t some point over the next few weeks you’ll almost certainly hear someone say that Coca-Cola invented Father Christmas, adding their corporate colours to a traditional figure to create the jolly character in the red suit we know and love today. And sell a lot of soft drinks in the process. It's one of the most popular Christmas myths, but that's exactly what it is. A myth. Santa has been portrayed almost exclusively in red since the early 19th century (before Coca-Cola even existed), and our 'modern' image of Father Christmas was created by cartoonist Thomas Nast in the 1870s. It's true that Coca-Cola started using Father Christmas in its advertisements 60 years later in 1933, but they weren't even the first people to enlist his help in endorsing their products. Ten years earlier, he could be seen enjoying the benefits of White Rock mineral water along with a rather large bottle of whisky. Good King Wenceslas is another Christmas figure we tend to take for granted. His name may be only three words long, but two of them are problematic - he wasn't a king and his name wasn't Wenceslas. The man in question was actually called Vaclav, and he was Duke (not king) of Bohemia in the modern-day Czech Republic during the 10th century. He may well have been good, but records are somewhat lacking in that respect. It's just as likely that people looked back on his rule through rosetinted glasses after he was succeeded by his brother, the aptly-named 114
Boleslaus the Cruel - who actually killed Vaclav to rule in his place. And don't let anyone try to tell you that Prince Albert invented the Christmas tree either - or brought the tradition to Britain. It’s a very popular idea, but it would certainly have come as a surprise to Queen Victoria, who'd enjoyed a Christmas tree as a child. As did the large German immigrant population in Manchester in the early 19th century. Victoria and Albert certainly popularised the Christmas tree when they were pictured with one in the Illustrated London News in 1848, but they definitely didn't create them. A Christmas tree was actually recorded in England in 1444, when a tree was brought to London and set in the ground “for disport of Christmas to the people” – but at the moment nobody knows what it was actually doing there. Advent calendars are another odd Christmas myth, encouraging us to believe that Advent begins on 1st December despite the fact that it doesn't. The season actually starts on the nearest Sunday to St Andrew's Day (30th November), which means the first day of Advent this year is 2nd December. The idea it starts on the same day every year was spread by manufacturers of Advent calendars so they could use the same design every year and sell off old stock. I’m not sure if people kiss under the mistletoe these days (it’s a Christmas tradition that may well have fallen victim to the times) but the practice certainly didn’t originate with the Vikings and their rather strange mythology.
In 1719, long after the Vikings had stopped looting and pillaging their way across East Anglia, Sir John Colebatch wrote a whole book on the plant (parasite if you want to make a point of it) and the customs associated with it including its usefulness in curing epilepsy. But there was no mention of kissing. In fact, you’d have to wait another 100 years for that. One of the most interesting of our assumptions about Christmas is that baby Jesus was born towards the end of December – because it’s almost certainly wrong. The earliest reference to the birth of Jesus (around 200 years later) dates it to March - and although the Bible doesn't exactly tell us, it does give us a clue. Everyone knows that shepherds were in the fields tending their flocks on the night of Jesus’ birth – “living out of doors and keeping watch in the night over their flocks” near Bethlehem (Luke 2:8-12). Now, December in Bethlehem is decidedly cold and rainy, 'enjoying' the lowest temperatures of the year with occasional snows in the highlands – but here we have shepherds actually living outside and keeping their sheep under the elements at night. Stripping away the misconceptions and mistaken assumptions we have about Christmas doesn’t mean you’re hoping to find a secure job with Scrooge & Marley. It’s a way of getting to the season’s most important message – the coming of light into the world and the bringing of peace and goodwill to everyone. And that’s something I think we should all celebrate.
KLmagazine December 2018
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