KL Magazine April 2015 by KL Magazine

ISSN 2044–7965

ISSUE 55 APRIL 2015 PRICELESS

magazine

WEST NORFOLK | NORTH NORFOLK | COASTAL

COVER IMAGE

Hunstanton by Ian Ward

editorial

01553 601201 editor@klmagazine.co.uk

Eric Secker Emma Barnard Ian Ward Alex Dallas Graham Murray Michael Middleton

advertising 01553 601201 sales@klmagazine.co.uk Laura Murray Michelle Young Clare Harper

design

01553 601201 design@klmagazine.co.uk Lisa Tonroe Amy Phillips

contact

18 Tuesday Market Place King’s Lynn, Norfolk PE30 1JW 01553 601201 www.klmagazine.co.uk KL magazine cannot accept responsibility for unsolicited submissions, manuscripts and photographs. While every care is taken, prices and details are subject to change and KL magazine takes no responsibility for omissions or errors. We reserve the right to publish and edit any letters. All rights reserved.

If you’d like to order prints of any photograph featured in KL magazine, contact us at the address above. Please note this applies only to images taken by our own photographers.

lthough it’s impossible to know for sure, it’s a safe bet that the person who built the very first wall had only just completed their work when someone else decided to scrawl something on it. Graffiti has been around as long as the buildings it ‘graces’ – ancient examples can found in the pyramids of Egypt, in the ruins of Pompeii and in several Mayan temples in Guatemala. Whether you consider it vandalism or a valid contemporary art form (as many now do) there’s no doubt that historical graffiti can be useful in understanding the lifestyles and languages of past peoples. Spelling and grammatical errors can point to levels of literacy, and can often provide the only evidence that certain sections of society were literate at all. Indeed, it’s the ability to give voice to the ‘common people’ that makes historical graffiti so fascinating, which brings us nicely to the work of the Norfolk Medieval Graffiti Survey (see page 28). Even though the volunteer-led project has only examined around half the county’s medieval churches to date, it’s managed to record some 26,000 individual inscriptions – ranging from prayers to curses, and from drawings of ships to musical notations. In addition to being surrounded by history, Norfolk is also a present-day hive of activity – and this month is no exception. Not only does it see the return of the Grand East Anglia Run (celebrating its 10th anniversary this year), but the East Anglian Game & Country Fair is a wonderful curtain-raiser for the coming months’ festivals and shows. All that and a photographic tribute to Her Majesty as well! Enjoy the magazine! KL MAGAZINE

KLmagazine April 2015

Contents 6-15

WHAT’S ON This month’s diary of forthcoming events

8-10

A CELEBRATION OF NORFOLK The East Anglian Game & Country Fair

APRIL 2015

16-18 ON YOUR MARKS... Getting ready for GEAR’s 10th anniversary 22-24 FIGHTING THE SLAVE TRADE The life of Wisbech-born Thomas Clarkson 28-30 WRITTEN IN STONE Uncovering the secrets of church graﬃti 36-38 HOLKHAM: BEHIND CLOSED DOORS An amazing look at the country estate 45

YOU AND YOUR PETS With local vet Alex Dallas

46-48 THE SKIES OF NORFOLK ARE ALIVE The return of our migratory birds 50-63 FASHION The latest looks from the local boutiques 60-62 CELEBRATING A ROYAL MILESTONE Ian Ward on photographing The Queen

64-66 RACING TO THE TOP OF THE WORLD... Chrissie Wellington’s inspirational journey 70-72 A WHOLE YEAR OF FRESH TASTES Chris Coubrough’s local food calendar 74-81 FOOD AND DRINK Recipes, reviews and recommendations 82-93 SPECIAL FEATURE: INTERIORS Avoiding common interior design errors 100-102 EXPLORER... Out and about in Hunstanton 104-106 THE NEXT BIG THING... Food for thought with The Thinking Men 110-112 A WEIRD AND WONDERFUL WORLD The work of sculptor Bob Catchpole 114 MICHAEL MIDDLETON The end is in sight. Well, almost. Maybe.

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110 5

APRIL BOX OFFICE: (01603) 63 00 00 Tues 31 March – Sat 11 April TOP HAT Award-winning Irving Berlin dance musical £8 - £44

Sun 19 April HEART & SOUL Central School of Dancing and Performing Arts £7 - £17.50

Wed 22 – Sun 26 April HORRIBLE HISTORIES Groovy Greeks and Incredible Invaders £7 - £16

Tues 21 April STEWART FRANCIS Deadpan stand up £7 - £17.50

Mon 27 April – Sat 2 May DEAR LUPIN James and Jack Fox star in touching tale of a father and son £8 - £27

The Great Gatsby

Tues 14 – Sat 18 April THE GREAT GATSBY Gorgeous dance adaptation of Scott Fitzgerald’s classic novel £8 - £36.50

T H E AT R E ST R E E T, N O RW I C H N R 2 1 R L

Book online: www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk

KLmagazine April 2015

April

162 YEARS AGO: On 4th April 1853 a major fire destroyed many of the contents of Hunstanton Hall and caused damage estimated at £10,000. Luckily, the bed in which Queen Elizabeth I had once slept was saved.

Saturday 4th Thursday 9th POLYMNIA CHAMBER CHOIR King’s Lynn Minster, PE30 5EB (7.30pm) Polymnia, a chamber choir of twenty-one voices, perform in King’s Lynn for the first time this month. In the past few years they have sung in Edinburgh, Croatia and Spain, where they had the rare privilege of giving a concert in Granada cathedral to an audience of hundreds. They recently sang in the chapel of Kings College Cambridge to conductor Stephen Cleobury, who described them as ‘a fine chamber choir’. Polymnia are directed by John Byron, and accompanied by cellist John Heley, who will perform Fauré’s Élégie, and join the choir for Richard Rodney Bennett’s moving and attractive A Farewell to Arms. The choir also perform Allegri’s Miserere Mei, a regular Classic FM favourite, as well as works by Ola Gjeilo and Morten Lauridsen, who are among the most celebrated choral composers of today. Join Polymnia in what promises to be an atmospheric and memorable musical event. Tickets are £10 (under 18s free) from the Minster Office and King’s Lynn Tourist Information Centre. For further details, see www.polymnia.org.uk.

Saturday 25th WILD ABOUT THE WENSUM Pensthorpe Natural Park (10am-5pm) Back for its 9th year, this fun ﬁlled family day is hosted by the Pensthorpe Conservation Trust. Child’s presenter Radzi Chinyanganya will be joining in the fun and there will be lots of exciting activities running throughout the day based around conservation in the Wensum Valley. For more information call 01328 851465 or visit the website www.pensthorpe.com.

KLmagazine April 2015

MARCH FARMERS’ MARKET Creake Abbey, North Creake, Fakenham (9.30am-1pm) 54 of the region’s best food and drink producers will be at Creake Abbey to supply outstanding fresh seasonal produce including meat, vegetables and fruit, cakes, tray bakes, dairy produce, artisan beer, apple juice, artisan breads, morning goods, puddings, pies, tarts (sweet and savoury), olives and prepared meals all made with the ﬁnest local ingredients. The Café and Food Hall will be open with bookings for lunch taken from 1.30pm. Outside the Food Hall the Café team will be serving hot food to keep you warm. For further details, see www.creakeabbey.co.uk.

Wednesday 29th FIFTH WEDNESDAY LITERARY LUNCH: JACKIE BENNETT Westacre Theatre, River Road, Westacre, PE32 1UD (1pm) An illustrated presentation by author Jackie Bennett about some of the poets, novelists and playwrights whose knowledge and love of gardens fed into their work – including Jane Austen, George Bernard Shaw, Roald Dahl, Rupert Brooke and others. There will also be readings from relevant poems and prose and the session will be followed at 3pm by questions and discussion. Tickets are £12 which includes a light lunch. For more information and to book tickets visit the website www.westacretheatre.com or call 01760 755800.

Snettisham Caravan Park

Clubhouse Live entertainment

The perfect place to own a holiday static caravan Situated on the beautiful West Norfolk coast less than 20 minutes away from Hunstanton, King’s Lynn and Sandringham.

• The perfect destination for countryside walks • Live entertainment • Licensed Clubhouse • Caravans for sale on site

Saturday 4th April - Fantastic Elvis Tribute G NY TO Sunday 5th April (Easter) alist & guitarist STEVE LAYNE - Popular voc iday) Saturday 2nd May (Bank hol alist voc & sax MIKE FOX - Musician, y) Sunday 3rd May (Bank holida k & Pop Roc Soul, Glam LLOYD E MOON - Popular iday) Saturday 23rd May (Bank Hol ades dec BONDY - Music through the Sunday 24th May Great 60’s music male duo 1 5432

Beach Road, Snettisham, King’s Lynn, PE31 7RB | 01485 542499 / 07533820300 | www.snettishamcaravanpark.com

There’s never been a more luxurious way to enjoy the magic of the movies... this month’s must-see screenings at the luxe:

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

luxurious leather seating throughout premier sofas with waitress service stylish & comfortable lounge bar mainstream, arthouse & classic films

The Luxe

f il m c l u b

ly sele A unique collection of special

cted films

Dark Passage | McCullin

The Luxe independent cinema

Alexandra Road, Wisbech, Cambridgeshire PE13 1HQ Tel: 01945 588808 Book online: www.theluxecinema.com

KLmagazine April 2015

Coming up...

Friday 1st May EVENING BIRD CHORUS WALK Oxburgh Hall, Oxborough, PE33 9PS (6pm-8pm) Join the Outdoors Team and a local naturalist for a celebration of birdsong. An alternative to a Dawn Chorus, you can visit Oxburgh at the other end of the day and discover why birds sing in the evening as well as in the morning. For more information contact Helen Gregory by e-mailing helen.gregory@nationaltrust.org.uk or by calling 01366 328926. Suitable clothing is advised and booking is essential. Tickets are £6 per person and £15 for families.

Sunday 3rd - Monday 4th May STRADSETT PARK 39TH VINTAGE RALLY Stradsett Park, Stradsett, King’s Lynn PE33 9HA (10am-5pm) A great family day out! 500 exhibits comprising vintage tractors, cars, motorcycles, heavy horses, steam engines, lorries, stationary engines and other bygones. This is all supported by trade stands, ring displays and parades along with catering and bar facilities. The event will also be raising money for The East Anglian Air Ambulance. Visit the website www.nvtec-ea.org.uk for pictures of previous events and more information. Tickets are £5 for adults and are free for children when accompanied by an adult.

CHURCH FARM STOW BARDOLPH

Friday 8th May INTERNATIONAL STRING TRIO CONCERT Sussex Barn, Burnham Market PE31 8JY International class musicians Jack Liebeck (violin), Meghan Cassidy (viola) and Jamie Walton (cello) will be performing a charity concert. The concert will feature Beethoven’s Trio in C Minor Op.9 No.3, Mozart’s Divertimento in Eb K563 and Dohnányi’s Serenade Op.10. The concert is in aid of Macmillan Cancer Support and The Yorke Trust. Tickets for the event cost £25 per person, which includes champagne on arrival. Bookings can be made via the website www.yorketrust.org or by telephone on 01328 823502.

KLmagazine April 2015

OPEN DAILY 10am-5pm EASTER FUN! Lamb Feeding Chick Cuddling Easter Quiz

01366 382162

www.churchfarmstowbardolph.co.uk 13

KLmagazine April 2015

PICTURES: ANDREW PERKINS/STEVE ADAMS/EAGC

What’s On

Celebrating everything that’s great about Norfolk Later this month, the East Anglian Game & Country Fair will oﬀer visitors two days packed with all the things that make life in Norfolk so special. KL magazine gets a preview of this year’s event

t the end of this month, one of the county’s best-loved family events returns to the Norfolk Showground as the annual East Anglian Game & Country Fair hosts a wide range of world class events and attractions over the weekend of Saturday 25th and Sunday 26th April. The 2015 event includes plenty of new displays, including the Essex Dog Display Team – which is generally accepted as the premier and longest established dog display team in Europe. The team has appeared at Crufts for a record-breaking 11 years and presents a professional and action-packed display – which includes the dogs negotiating a 100ft ramp (it’s also 8ft high!) at high speed through hoops of ﬁre. Equally thrilling is the spectacle oﬀered by Arena Boarding’s KLmagazine April 2015

horseboarding demonstrations. Described as “somewhere between scurry racing and wake boarding,” horseboarding really needs to be seen to be believed as teams take on the clock around a course of gates set to challenge the best boarders and riders – and reach quite unbelievable speeds. While the Fair’s famous horse behaviourist Richard Maxwell will be demonstrating the special understanding and training techniques he uses to help horses overcome some of their fears, the Pine Lodge School of Classical Equitation will be presenting horses at the top of their sport – together with riders who’ve represented Great Britain in the European and World Working Equitation Teams. But there’s a lot more to the East Anglian Game & Country

Fair than horses! It offers a rare opportunity to see European Champion, English Open Champion, and six times FITASC Sporting World Champion John Bidwell performing his world famous off-thehip trick shooting with an automatic and pump action shotgun – and the main arena will be featuring a world of country pursuits from the West Norfolk Hunt to ferret racing, and from fly fishing to sheepdog displays. Celebrating its 25th anniversary in 2015, the Mid-Norfolk Gundog Club will be showing how spaniels and retrievers are trained and will be running the Gun Dog Scurry competitions and a Team Gundog Working Test – a competition for trained gundogs that simulates the problems the dogs encounter when working. 9

What’s On

accompaniment of the Sheringham Shantymen. As always, the East Anglian Game & Country Fair enables children of all ages to take part in countryside activities and meet several animals. Little ones will be enchanted by all the activities and animals that range from Woodbine Alpacas to Scratby Donkey Rides. The new Fine & Country Educational Zone features some of the best independent schools from across the region, giving visitors the opportunity to meet some of the staff and pupils and discover more about our local teaching and learning environments in a friendly and relaxed setting. And if you’d like to take part in something yourself, you’ll be well and truly spoilt for choice. You can enter the 40-bird re-entry shooting competition (don’t worry – it’s not what you think!) or try fly fishing with the Salmon and Trout Association. You can take a helicopter pleasure flight over the Norfolk Showground, hold a bird of prey, or take a ride in a Landrover on the off-road 4x4 course. You can even get your pets involved by entering your dog into the Dog Agility and Jumping competitions or the ever-popular Pet Dog Show. With so much to see, so much to enjoy and so many activities to take part in, the only problem is how to fit it all into two days! If you love Norfolk, you’ll love this year’s event. Don’t miss it!

PICTURES: ANDREW PERKINS/STEVE ADAMS/EAGC

At the Falconry Village you’ll find lure swinging competitions, talks on hunting and a chance to practice your skills at catching an owl, while the forestry arena will be (literally) a buzz of activity with chainsaw carvings, felling demonstrations, tree climbing and pole climbing competitions. If you like getting up close and personal with the countryside, then don’t miss Woodland Ways Bushcraft & Survival. They’ll be demonstrating their vast knowledge of bushcraft and survival techniques, and there’ll be plenty of opportunities for some hands-on experiences – not least in discovering how quickly you can prepare a pigeon for the table without using a knife! One of the most popular areas of the fair is always the Country Kitchen, which has a great new line up for 2015 with a variety of cookery workshops and demonstrations taking place over the weekend from a selection of highly-respected local chefs, including celebrity chef Chris Coubrough, Roger Hickman, Andy Snowling, Eric Snaith and Na Hansell. The Cookery Theatre is housed in the centre of the busy food hall where you’ll find a wide variety of exhibitors from across Norfolk (and further afield) bringing unusual and mouthwatering food and drink to the show for visitors to sample, enjoy and purchase. A true celebration of everything that’s great about Norfolk, the fair also features over 300 shopping stands offering a wide variety of products from fashion and footwear to gun makers, eco products, fishing products and home improvements. And when you do need to take a break from all the activity, the main bar will be serving a great selection of local beers and drinks – to the fittingly local

EAST ANGLIAN GAME & COUNTRY FAIR 2015 Saturday 25th – Sunday 26th April Norfolk Showground, Norwich For full details and information on events and ticketing options, visit www.ukgamefair.co.uk or call 01263 735828.

KLmagazine April 2015

Morton ATV all terrain and utility terrain vehicles HONDA POLARIS LOGIC WESSEX C-DAX SCH Ltd

A great range of new and used vehicles in stock plus a full range of accessories: fertiliser spreaders, mowers, sprayers, and more. Servicing carried out on all Honda, Briggs & Stratton and Polaris engines on vehicles and mowers.

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Lings Country Goods for all your country pursuits

KLmagazine April 2015

NEXT RACE

MEETING

FAKENHAM

D STANDARD GOL

Easter Monday 6th April | First Race 2:00pm Tuesday 5th May | First Race 2:00pm

Ladies Day Sunday 31st May | First Race 2.30pm Admission: Adults from £10 17 years and under (accompanied by adults) FREE First race times are subject to change

Fakenham RACECOURSE

Fakenham Racecourse Ltd, The Racecourse Fakenham, Norfolk NR21 7NY T: 01328 862388 E: info@fakenhamracecourse.co.uk W: www.fakenhamracecourse.co.uk

er m m u S / g n Spri ynn L s ’ g n i K at the ge n a h c x E C or n

Fantastic shows for the whole family! AVENUE Q

(14+ years)

Tuesday 16th - Saturday 20th June Winner of the Tony Awards ‘Triple Crown’ for Best Musical, Best Score and Best Book, AVENUE Q is the best combination of comedy and musical. Following five years in the West End, sell-out runs worldwide and a smash hit tour in 2014 (packed with mischief, bad behaviour and political incorrectness) this hugely entertaining show is hitting the road again! AVENUE Q is an irresistibly charming musical which tells the story of the loveable characters on a downtown New York street trying to make sense of life’s burning issues. Hilarious, cheeky and uproariously entertaining, with a terrific batch of songs performed by a cast of hugely talented performers and puppets, AVENUE Q is the musical like no other. So if you want a fantastic evening of laughter and to leave feeling thoroughly entertained don’t let your life suck – book your tickets today! Check out clips from the show at www.avenueqthemusical.co.uk

Direct from the USA

GOSPEL AT THE MOVIES

JUDY - THE SONGBOOK OF JUDY GARLAND

CK Gospel Choir Sunday 7th June

THE LIFE AND MUSIC OF A HOLLYWOOD LEGEND Tuesday 26th & Wednesday 27th May A song and dance spectacular celebrating the classic songs of Judy Garland. Join an incredible cast of performers as they take you through Judy’s stage and screen career including never seen before film highlights and interviews. A remarkable musical journey through a dazzling songbook including Over the Rainbow, The Man That Got Away, Easter Parade, Zing! Went The Strings of my Heart and Get Happy. Special guest star is Judy Garland’s daughter Lorna Luft. Creative Director is Arlene Phillips.

This 16 piece group features singers from TV shows The Voice UK and Must Be The Music. What sets them apart from other choirs is their ability to fuse traditional and modern Gospel with other genres such as Jazz and Latin.

OCTONAUTS And The Deep Sea Volcano Adventure Saturday 13th & Sunday 14th June When there’s trouble under the sea, the Octonauts dive into action! Get ready for an exciting new mission with your favourite underwater adventure heroes, The Octonauts!

For the full programme of what’s on at the Corn Exchange, pick up a copy of our new brochure or check out the ‘what’s on’ page of our website. Tickets for all shows are available from the Box Office 01553 764864 or you can book online at kingslynncornexchange.co.uk

Don’t forget to follow us online too: T:@klcornexchange Fb: Alive Corn Exchange KLmagazine April 2015

What’s On

Fitness news across King’s Lynn and West Norfolk 10TH GRAND EAST ANGLIA RUN Sunday 3rd May It’s not too late to enter! There is less than a month to go until the 10th Bespak Grand East Anglia Run (GEAR), a fast, flat 10k road race through the streets of King’s Lynn. Suitable for all ages and abilities (although runners must be aged 15 or over on race day) the course is also accessible for wheelchair entrants. The course record stands at 30 mins 18 secs. Will anyone break that 30 minute barrier on the 10th running of the race? You can enter online now by visiting the website www.grandeastangliarun.co.uk.

ALIVE CLASSES Alive Leisure has 125 classes a week over 4 locations. With no joining fees and competitively priced memberships there has never been a better time to join. You can also join with a friend, partner or work colleague and get even better value for money. If you’re not sure what to expect at a class we have some exciting opportunities coming up: Why not ‘Give it a go’? Alive Lynnsport are running a timetable of FREE taster sessions for their classes every Sunday between 9.30 - 10.30am.

There will be a different class each week including Fight Club, BLT (Bums, legs and tums), Pilates, Yoga, Body Pump and Indoor Group Cycling. These ‘Give it a go’ sessions are open to non-members only and spaces are limited. Call 01553 818001 to book your space and see our website for the timetable of classes. Classes Launch Weekend On Saturday 11th and Sunday 12th April the new Alive Classes timetable covering April - June is being launched at Lynnsport. Over the weekend you can try out the ‘LES MILLS’ brand classes, including BODYCOMBAT, BODYATTACK, BODYPUMP and BODYBALANCE for Free! (Pre-booking essential, call 01553 818001. Maximum 2 classes per person, per day) Health checks, nutritional advice, personal training taster sessions and health trainer advice will all be available over the weekend.

WEST NORFOLK VILLAGE GAMES Be the Best in the West 2015 is the 23rd year of the Village Games, open to all ages and all sizes of Villages. Taking place on Sunday 28th June any one of the 90 villages in the borough of King’s Lynn and West Norfolk can take part. The Games have events for adults and children ranging from football, netball, badminton and bowls to rounders, fitness triathlon and a fun Gladiator Challenge in Lynnsport’s Gymnastics Centre. With 19 events to choose from in total! A village doesn’t have to enter all of them; just as many as they choose. Details are available from the website www.intervillagegames.co.uk or you can contact Alive Sports Development on 01553 818017. The Games are sponsored by King’s Lynn Audi and King’s Lynn Volkswagen.

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

KLmagazine April 2015

Local Life

ABOVE: The presentation ceremony at last year’s GEAR, which saw Aaron Scott of Notts AC ﬁrst past the ﬁnish line (opposite) with a time of 31.12 minutes. Assistant Race Director Peter Duhig (below) says the event is a marvellous example of the local community working together

Take your marks for GEAR’s 10th anniversary As the Bespak Grand East Anglia Run celebrates a decade of success, Emma Barnard talks to Assistant Race Director Peter Duhig about the work that goes into staging such a huge event...

e’re just a month away from that time of the year when the streets of King’s Lynn are ﬁlled with runners and supporters, raising thousands of pounds for a variety of local charities and good causes. The 10k Grand East Anglia Run (GEAR) returns on May 3rd for the 10th time, on a one-lap course that allows runners to soak up the historic sights of the town along the way – taking part in an event which has even been recognised for a national award! This successful event ﬁrst started as a regeneration idea when discussions started in 2004 to set up an event highlighting King’s Lynn’s historical sights. Originally the event was named

KLmagazine April 2015

the ‘Great East Anglia Run’ and involved two laps, but since 2007, runners have competed over a one-lap route. The race’s name changed from ‘Great’ to ‘Grand’ in 2008 (retaining the acronym GEAR), and the event hasn’t looked back since. The event received Gold Grading from the British Association of Road Races the following year (a status it still holds), and a ‘fun run’ called Mini GEAR was introduced ﬁve years ago. Covering a 1.2 mile course and taking place before the main event, it was originally intended for children under 15, but is now open to people of all ages and abilities. The limit for entrants is 2,200 for the 10k and 1,000 in the Mini Gear – so the centre of King’s Lynn can expect to see

Local Life

plenty of runners on the day! Peter Duhig is the Assistant Race Director for GEAR and was involved in the event before it even started. At the heart of GEAR is a strong sense of community and a real feeling of excitement, and Peter feels the famous course is responsible for the feeling the event generates. “It has historic interest and some truly wonderful buildings to pass,” he says. “It’s also very friendly in as much as it winds around the town centre so people can see you running several times.” The Tuesday Market Place is the start and finish of the route, and the square is always overflowing with excited entrants and those cheering them on. “It’s a wonderful sight as the winners come down the straight in front of the Corn Exchange to the finish line,” says Peter, “and they’re followed by all those marvellous runners that do it just for the love of running or to raise untold thousands for local charities.” Indeed, that’s the wonderful thing about GEAR, and one of the reasons it’s so successful – whatever your ability and whatever your reason is for taking part, you’re welcomed with open arms and encouraged to run. With the 10th event comes the news that GEAR has been nominated for – and won! – the British Association of Road Races’ Race of the Year 2014. To celebrate the award, GEAR organisers will be attending this year’s London Marathon to be presented with the Bill Reynolds Trophy by none other than running guru, David Bedford. It’s a fitting tribute to the amazing

work of the race organisers. “I think the person in the street probably couldn’t imagine what it takes,” says Peter. “Our Race Director Roger Partridge gets very little respite from it in any one year; pulling together the wide variety of very different organisations that make the event possible.” Those organisations include the Borough Council of King’s Lynn and West Norfolk together with the Highways Agency, Air Cadets and Scouts, local Rotary Clubs, the Ryston Runners – and all the police, first aid, marshalling, commentating, water stations and volunteer support. “Oh, and then there’s all the Health and Safety issues to consider,” says Peter. “They could fill a few lever arch files all by themselves!” Not surprisingly, GEAR takes up to nine months to put together, and the Event Plan needs to be seen by many of the participating bodies a month in advance of the race’s start. “We also have to check the course itself regularly for suitability,” says Peter. “We also have to make sure there are no roadworks scheduled on the course from the main service agents. It’s an enormously complex event to plan.” GEAR also owes much of its continued success to the tireless work of volunteers. “I’m not sure if GEAR could happen without our volunteers,” says Peter. “It takes at least 80 people just to cover the marshalling points on the course, and 20 or more at the Water Stations!” From the people who man the start and finish lines to the control room

staff and guards and police in the town centre itself, the event’s smooth running requires the teamwork of up to 200 people. There’s a reward for all that hard work though, and the atmosphere at GEAR is always fantastic. “Every year we’re amazed by the feelgood factor that vibrates through the entire event,” says Peter. “GEAR is a real community effort with lots and lots of help from many local organisations and individuals.” With the 2015 event now almost ready for the off, does Peter think anyone’s likely to finally break the elusive 30-minute mark to celebrate GEAR’s 10th anniversary? “There’s no reason why it shouldn’t!” he says. “It would be marvellous to have someone set a new course record in our 10th year, but that’s in the lap of the gods. Mo Farah, where are you?”

GRAND EAST ANGLIA RUN 2015 This year’s event takes place on Sunday 3rd May 2015, and starts (and ﬁnishes) in the Tuesday Market Place in the centre of King’s Lynn. Mini GEAR race starts at 10am, with the 10k race starting at 10.45am. For more details, please visit the website at www.grandeastangliarun.co.uk

KLmagazine April 2015

‘GRAND ENTRANCE’ Thinking of making a

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KLmagazine

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What is a Conservatory?

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KLmagazine April 2015

“There are in this world, people who seem to be ‘ordinary’ but who turn out to be extraordinary. They give their total attention. They listen and listen and listen, without interrupting. They do not preach. They have nothing to sell. We call them Samaritans.” Dr Chad Varah, CH CBE Founder, Samaritans

King’s Lynn Samaritans/Charity Number 268748

ABOVE: The Lemon Team taking part in last year’s King’s Lynn Samaritans’ Annual Charity Bike Ride at Sandringham. Not surprisingly, Andrew Larham and Mark Gregory won the Best Couple in the event’s fancy dress awards!

Going the extra mile... Why next month’s charity bike ride at Sandringham is so important to the vital work of King’s Lynn Samaritans ast year around 100 cyclists set out from the Visitor Centre at Sandringham, travelling between 8 and 14 miles dressed as everything from Brazilian footballers to Amazon rainforests and snakes. It was an amazing spectacle, as much fun to watch as it was for the participants, but at its heart was a very serious message. For the last 20 years, the Annual Charity Bike Ride at Sandringham – organised by the Friends of King’s Lynn Samaritans – has raised funds, attracted volunteers, and promoted awareness of a vital local service that’s been part of the community for half a century. “The annual bike ride is just one of the many events the Friends hold throughout the year,” says Keith King, Branch Director of King’s Lynn Samaritans. “Their fundraising eﬀorts are crucial to us, and just as important as the work of our volunteers. Without them, the continued growth, development – and even future – of the

KLmagazine April 2015

service would be in jeopardy.” This year’s bike run takes place at 10am on Sunday May 17th, and the theme for 2015 is Witches and Wizards – offering participants the perfect excuse to blow the cobwebs off those bicycles! “Although fancy dress isn’t compulsory, it does add a touch of magic to the event,” says the Friends’ Treasurer Chris Livesey. “Thanks to the introduction of a shorter course option last year, it’s the perfect event for the whole family. Entry is free, refreshments for the riders are free – and everyone who takes part receives a medal. Even better, it’s all in a good cause!” Working almost entirely through volunteers and donations, King’s Lynn Samaritans offers confidential support 24 hours a day, seven days a week to anyone wanting to talk through their problems. Those problems can range from financial worries and job-related stress to family problems and bereavement, and around 20% of the calls received by the Samaritans involve suicidal feelings.

“I can't stress how important it is for people to contact us as soon as possible,” says Keith King. “The sooner they do – whether by phone or in person – the sooner we can help. That’s what we’re here for.” And for those wishing to dress up and enjoy a cycle ride in one of the most beautiful settings in the county, there’s never been a better time to help Keith and his team of volunteers continue their vital work. To take part in this fantastic event and help support King’s Lynn Samaritans, please contact Treasurer Chris Livesey at chriswendylivesey@btinternet.com for more details, information and sponsorship forms.

information 26 Queen Street, King’s Lynn PE30 1HT Telephone: 01553 761616 Web: www.samaritans.org National Line: 08457 909090

Neither can men, by the same principles, be considered as lands, goods, or houses, among possessions. It is necessary that all property should be inferior to its possessor. But how does the slave diďŹ&#x20AC;er from his master, but by chance? â&#x20AC;&#x201C; THOMAS CLARKSON (1760-1846)

KLmagazine April 2015

History

ABOVE: The famous Clarkson Chest (currently in the Wisbech and Fenland Museum) contains objects and artefacts collected by Thomas Clarkson (opposite) on his travels as was used as a ‘travelling museum’ to demonstrate the iniquities of the slave trade.

A man from Wisbech and the end of slavery... Britain was the ﬁrst big slave-trading nation to abandon the trade, but if it hadn’t been for the lifelong eﬀorts of a headmaster’s son from Wisbech it may never have happened.

n the centre of Wisbech, where the old Customs House used to sit, is an imposing Gothic monument. Unveiled in November 1881, it stands 68ft high, took almost a year to build, cost the equivalent of £300,000, and was designed by no less than the nationallyfamous architect Sir George Gilbert Scott RA – who also designed the Albert Memorial in London’s Hyde Park. His memorial in Wisbech commemorates the life and work of the town’s most famous son, a man described by the great poet Samuel Coleridge as a “moral steam engine” – and it’s probably true that no one

KLmagazine April 2015

worked harder, took more personal risks or invested more of their life into abolishing slavery than Thomas Clarkson. Born at the town’s Old Grammar School on 28th March 1760 (his father was the local headmaster) Thomas Clarkson’s ﬁrst encounter with the slave trade came when he entered a Latin essay-writing competition based on the question “Is it lawful to make slaves of others against their wills?” His research for his entry opened his eyes to the true nature of slavery, and the competition changed his life. His essay also won ﬁrst prize. Within a year, it had been published, widely read,

and its author became well known. Clarkson’s writing style was so compelling, in fact, that even Jane Austen – who completely disagreed with his views on slavery – was so impressed after reading one of his books that she claimed to be “in love with its author.” In May 1787, together with 11 other men, Thomas Clarkson founded the Society for Eﬀecting the Abolition of the Slave Trade, persuading the MP for Hull – a certain William Wilberforce – to speak for them in Parliament. Although Wilberforce’s brilliant speeches saw him become (to this day) the public face of the abolition

History

movement, it was Clarkson who provided him with a continuous supply of evidence on which the speeches were based. And it was evidence that was truly hard-earned. During his life, Thomas Clarkson travelled some 35,000 miles around Britain, observing, finding witnesses, interviewing, making notes and assembling evidence about the evils of the slave trade. And in addition to being a monumental task, it was also a particularly dangerous one. In Liverpool, which along with Bristol and Plymouth was one of the country’s major slave trade ports, Clarkson had a lucky escape when he survived an attack by a gang of sailors who’d been paid to kill him. He received even more threats and abuse when he took his campaign (possibly unwisely given the political climate) to France in the revolutionary year of 1789. Despite the heavy defeat of the first abolitionist Bill in 1791, Clarkson continued his travels, collecting evidence, speaking in public, and encouraging the formation of local abolition groups. The constant travelling, excessive long hours and growing frustration (another Bill was defeated in Parliament in 1792) all took their toll however, and an exhausted Clarkson eventually withdrew from the fight, marrying a woman from Bury St Edmunds and moving to the Lake District to take up farming. It wasn’t the end of his anti-slavery

crusade, however. Returning south, Clarkson and his family moved to Suffolk in 1803, and within a year he was once again active in the antislavery campaign, which celebrated a major turning point four years later when the slave trade was finally abolished in the British Empire. That wasn’t the end of the story, however – especially as slavery was still legal and slaves weren’t actually free. For the rest of his life Thomas Clarkson continued to campaign, travelling to France in 1814 in another attempt to persuade them to end the slave trade, enlisting the support of the Russian Tsar Alexander I, and supporting the formation of a new antislavery group. Aged 63, Clarkson went on yet another national tour, covering an astonishing 10,000 miles in order to raise support for the cause. At long last, and some 48 years after Clarkson had written his prize-winning essay, the Slavery Abolition Act was passed in 1833, giving all slaves in the British Empire their freedom. However, only children under six were given true freedom, and existing slaves were required to work for their former masters for the next six years as unpaid ‘apprentices’ – a situation Clarkson and his wife continued to fight until the final ending of the ‘apprenticeship’ system in 1838. Two years later, at the British and Foreign Anti-Slavery Society’s convention in London, Clarkson was

voted President and was treated to a standing ovation from 5,000 delegates and observers from around the world. Never one to rest on his laurels, Thomas Clarkson continued writing letters and pamphlets and speaking at public meetings until his death at his home in Playford Hall near Ipswich in 1846. Clarkson left a quite remarkable legacy, and his lifelong eﬀorts shouldn’t be underestimated. In the space of a few years, he’d managed to turn abolition into the most prominent political issue of the day, thanks to his astounding determination and his new and highly creative approach to publicity. In fact, had it not been for this tireless campaigner from Wisbech, the social history of the world may have been very diﬀerent indeed.

KLmagazine April 2015

A FRESH APPROACH TO LEGAL SERVICES We offer a low cost, fixed fee, Will Writing & Estate Planning service. Arrange a no obligation home visit, or an appointment at our King’s Lynn office, up to 8pm in the evening. • • • • • •

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Tel: 01553 860123

Office: 118 London Road, King's Lynn, PE30 5ES www.inheritancewills.co.uk KLmagazine April 2015

ABOVE: Partners Clive Dodds (Head of Legal Practice), Chris Goad and Nigel Ward of Stephenson Smart

Taking the worry out of those worrying times Dealing with the financial affairs of someone who has died can be as complicated as it is stressful. It’s a time when the professional help of local company Stephenson Smart can be invaluable... t’s widely understood that following a death, someone becomes an ‘executor’ – but the actual responsibilities of the role are often underestimated. Appointed to deal with the estate of the deceased in accordance with their wishes, the role of the executor can be a particularly onerous one as it involves several complex issues and a number of specialised fields of expertise – all at a highly stressful and understandably upsetting time. It’s a time when appointing a professional makes so much sense – providing peace of mind in addition to expert knowledge and experience, and reducing the administrative burden on the

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family. Last year, the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW) was made the approved regulator and licensing authority for probate and ABS (Alternative Business Structures), a move that opened the marketplace to the consumer for legal services work. It was also a move that saw Stephenson Smart confirmed as the very first accountancy firm in East Anglia to be licensed by the ICAEW to carry out probate work. It’s a fitting endorsement of the high professional standards and comprehensive services offered by the local firm of Chartered Accountants and

KLmagazine April 2015

Many of the problems frequently experienced by people dealing with probate issues can be avoided (or at least minimised) by thinking ahead... Registered Auditors, which was established over 100 years ago and has offices throughout Norfolk and Cambridgeshire. It means Stephenson Smart can now offer enhanced support to customers by assisting them with the administration of estates, dealing with the application for Grant of Representation and handling all aspects of Inheritance Tax – without the need to involve a third party. Appointing Stephenson Smart means you can rest assured that everything is carried out in a professional and timely manner. Not only can they administer the realisation of all assets (bank accounts, property and share portfolios), Stephenson Smart can also determine the liabilities of the estate and prepare estate accounts accordingly, calculate the Inheritance Tax liability and explain any payment instalment options which may be available, deal with HM Revenue & Customs on behalf of the estate (including the agreeing of liabilities), and even provide ongoing advice on tax planning opportunities for the estate and/or for beneficiaries – who may be in charge of significant income or assets for the very first time. “For even more peace of mind, Stephenson Smart offers a totally free initial advice service and can provide a no-obligation quote,” says Head of Legal Practice Clive Dodds, “and we’re committed to fully transparent fees, only ever charging for actual work performed.” Working with you every step of the way, Stephenson Smart ensures you’re always kept fully up to date with how the administration of the estate is progressing – and is always available for further help and advice. Of course, many of the problems frequently experienced by people dealing with probate issues can be avoided (or at least minimised) by thinking ahead, particularly when it comes to Inheritance Tax planning. Although it’s often referred to as a ‘voluntary’ tax, most of us leave it far too late to consider any sort of Inheritance Tax provision – which means that all too often the financial assets we wish to pass on when we die are significantly reduced. It’s obviously a difficult question but it’s also a very fundamental one, and one with an inevitable answer – wouldn’t we all rather the whole of our wealth passed to the people we choose?

KLmagazine April 2015

For this to happen, early planning is crucial, and it’s an area in which Stephenson Smart has a wealth of experience and expertise. Stephenson Smart can review your estate (or the estate of family members), establish your likely exposure to Inheritance Tax, and propose both shortand long-term strategies to mitigate that tax liability. Specialising in the use of trusts, lifetime transfers and careful will planning, Stephenson Smart can ensure the transfer of your estate to your family and dependants is as trouble-free and tax-efficient as possible. Of course, the types of assets you hold will make a huge difference to the Inheritance Tax liability you’ll have. At Stephenson Smart, business-owning customers are advised on the best way to pass this on – and if you have wealth to invest, they can even advise you on the most beneficial investment opportunities with a view to minimising your exposure to Inheritance Tax.

In addition to routes you can pursue yourself (annual exemptions, gifts out of income, gifts on marriage and exempt transfers), Stephenson Smart can also advise you on the benefits of leaving part of your estate to charity – another opportunity to reduce the rate at which Inheritance Tax is payable. Even in the absence of advance planning, Stephenson Smart can still help lessen the exposure to Inheritance Tax with a range of planning opportunities and options. Although it’s an area we may not like to consider, the whole field of inheritance, probate and estates is one that needs to be taken seriously and realistically. It’s a field through which Stephenson Smart can guide you, with excellent professional advice and a first class local service tailored to the individual needs of you and your family. For more information and details, contact Stephenson Smart and discover how to make the most of your estate.

KING’S LYNN 22-26 King Street, King’s Lynn, Norfolk PE30 1HJ t: 01553 774104 e: enquiries@stephenson-smart.com FAKENHAM 10 Oak Street, Fakenham, Norfolk NR21 9DY t: 01328 863318 e: fakenham@stephenson-smart.com WISBECH 2 The Crescent, Wisbech, Cambridgeshire PE13 1EH t: 01945 463383 e: wisbech@stephenson-smart.com DOWNHAM MARKET 1st Floor, 9 Market Place, Downham Market, Norfolk PE38 9DG t: 01366 384121 e: downhammarket@stephenson-smart.com MARCH 23 Dartford Road, March, Cambridgeshire PE15 8AN t: 01354 653026 e: march@stephenson-smart.com

KLmagazine April 2015

GRAFFITI PICTURES: NORFOLK AND SUFFOLK MEDIEVAL GRAFFITI SURVEY 2015

History

ABOVE: The Norfolk Medieval Graffiti Survey has almost completed its work in Norwich Cathedral, recording over 5,000 examples of graffiti from the last 800 years. The graffiti below shows St. Catherine and was found in the city’s castle chapel.

Graﬃti: an art, a crime, or a part of our history? Today seen as a literal blot on the landscape, graﬃti was once even accepted in church. Emma Barnard looks at a remarkable local project giving voice to the people of the Middle Ages...

here are over 650 medieval churches remaining in Norfolk today – that’s more than any other county in England. They were built at a time of contrasts – with a glamorous society of knights, nobles and courtly love founded on a downtrodden population for whom death was always around the corner. The sheer volume of surviving medieval artefacts in Norfolk means we’re still discovering more about this period all the time. Medieval graﬃti is something archaeologists and historians have been aware of for years, but it wasn’t clear

KLmagazine April 2015

just how much has survived to this day. At least not until the arrival of the Norfolk Medieval Graffiti Survey (NMGS). “We were established in early 2010 with the intention of carrying out the first large-scale and systematic survey of early graffiti inscriptions in English churches,” says Project Director Matthew Champion. When NMGS began their survey it was believed the inscriptions were quite rare, but over the last five years the team has discovered this graffiti is actually quite common – surviving inscriptions have been identified in over

60% of the churches surveyed so far. So what exactly is medieval church graffiti? During the Middle Ages, church interiors would have been vibrantly colourful, and the inscriptions (made through the paintwork) would have been obvious. But with the passage of time and the loss of the colours, the graffiti is now quite difficult to identify – and much of it is now merely faint lines etched into the stonework. To date, the NMGS survey has looked at over half the county’s medieval churches and has discovered and recorded a staggering 26,000 individual inscriptions. The survey of Norwich Cathedral (which is almost complete) has identified at least 5,000 individual pieces of graffiti – some of which dates back to the 12th century! From the smallest village to the larger towns, the medieval church was a place of structure and hierarchy, and everyone knew their place. “They may not necessarily have been very happy about the place society assigned them,” says Matthew, “but their choices were limited. Feudalism didn’t end at the church door.” The survey is aiming to discover and record the early inscriptions and is using them to increase our understanding of how individuals interacted with the church as both a building and an institution. For the rich, it was easy. Those who could afford it had themselves memorialised in brass and alabaster. “The lower orders of the medieval parish, those who actually built and worshipped in these amazing structures have no such memorials and their voice is all but silent,” says Matthew. “The wonderful thing about medieval graffiti is that it was made by all levels of society.” From the lord of the manor and parish priest to the lowliest commoner, these early graffiti artists are giving a real voice to the silent majority of the Middle Ages. The wonderful thing about the work of the NMGS is that is gives us a glimpse of the hopes, fears and dreams of the medieval population of Norfolk. “The vast majority of the inscriptions we’ve discovered appear to be devotional in nature,” says Matthew. “They’re literally prayers made solid in stone.” The inscriptions have enabled the NMGS to increase our understanding of the faith and beliefs of a population that could be faced with sudden and untimely death, but also devoted their time, resources and energy to building some of the wonders of medieval England.

GRAFFITI PICTURES: NORFOLK AND SUFFOLK MEDIEVAL GRAFFITI SURVEY 2015

History

ABOVE: From shields and saints to windmills, musical notations and curses (bottom left), the NMGS has recorded some 26,000 inscriptions – and the survey has only looked at half of Norfolk’s medieval churches so far!

From our 21st century standpoint, graffiti is generally seen as an antisocial and destructive form of vandalism. This is, however, a purely modern view, as the evidence suggests it was both accepted and acceptable in the Middle Ages – even in the parish church. The graffiti allows historians to understand what common people were doing (and why) and how they thought. The NMGS project and survey is a particularly exciting development for archaeologists and historians because it’s a relatively new area of research. New inscriptions are being discovered all the time, and each find has the potential to change the way the places, events and people of the past are viewed. “In the last five years we’ve already changed the way we think about people interacting with the insides of our medieval parish churches,” says Matthew. “As new evidence comes to light with each passing week, I fully anticipate that some of our theories will evolve, change and be replaced.” One thing that won’t change,

however, is the new-found importance of the graﬃti itself and its ability to shed new light on the past. The project is entirely reliant on volunteers, so if you’d like to get involved with this fascinating survey contact Matthew Champion via the website www.medieval-graﬃti.co.uk.

KLmagazine April 2015

NEED A NEW BOILER? Enjoy total peace of mind with Plumbing & Gas Solutions - and relax!

From one of the most respected and reliable plumbing and heating companies in the area comes a comprehensive range of services covering west and north Norfolk that includes everything from complete heating installations (including air source cylinders) and plumbing repairs to boiler servicing and the power flushing of central heating systems. With a team of talented and professional engineers, a fleet of 10 company vehicles and a 24-hour service that's available seven days a week, Plumbing & Gas Solutions are always on hand to offer you the very highest standards of customer care. All you have to do is relax!

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“In addition to quality products and excellent workmanship, ECOnomy Windows don’t require a deposit and you only pay on installation. For people thinking of drawing down on their pensions it means they can beneﬁt from everything ECOnomy Windows has to oﬀer without the delay of organising deposits or staged payments. Every time we’ve used ECOnomy Windows we’ve been impressed with the level of customer care and standard of service we’ve received at every stage – and the products themselves are absolutely fantastic.” – Mr and Mrs B, SWAFFHAM

Planning your future with Economy Windows... A

pril 6th is a rather momentous day this year. Not only is it Easter Monday and the start of the new tax year, it’s also the date the new pension freedoms come into eﬀect – part of the government’s major overhaul of the pension system that will aﬀect virtually every aspect of saving for retirement. The changes mean more people will be able to retire and use money from their pensions without buying an annuity, giving them greater power over how they spend, save or invest their retirement funds. In addition to giving people access to their entire pension pot from age 55 onwards, the reforms also enable them to access invest-and-drawdown schemes

and savers will no longer be forced to invest in an annuity – the new changes mean people will be able to dip in and make as many withdrawals as they want, receiving 25% tax-free each time. It’s great news for people looking to invest their money into their homes as they improve, not move – and for those looking to downsize but tailor their home to suit their individual requirements and needs. ECOnomy Windows has already worked with many of their customers who have drawn down funds and are now enjoying a new lifestyle in the conservatory of their dreams. In addition to a world-class product and a level of customer service that’s second to none, ECOnomy Windows ensures every stage of such a major

purchase is as easy and worry-free as possible. That means no deposit and no staged payments; with ECOnomy Windows your new conservatory is planned and designed together with you, ordered and manufactured – and payment is only required on installation. And for even more peace of mind, the products come with a complete 10-year GGF insurance-backed guarantee. As many thousands of satisfied customers have discovered, ECOnomy Windows offer some of the finest products on the market today and an approach that puts you in full control of your finances – and your lifestyle. It’s time to treat yourself to a brighter future with ECOnomy Windows – you and your home have earned it.

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West Norfolk: Then and Now

History

1895?

2015

WHERE’S OUR CAPTAIN GONE? The remarkable picture of the quay in front of the Customs House in King’s Lynn (above) was sent to us by Sarah Douglas from Gaywood, who wondered why it didn’t feature the statue of the town’s most famous son, Captain George Vancouver. There’s an

KLmagazine April 2015

easy answer to that one, Sarah – the photograph was taken on a low-tide day over 100 years before the statue was unveiled! For more photographs of how things used to be in King’s Lynn and the surrounding area, contact Picture Norfolk – at the Norfolk Heritage Centre, Norfolk and Norwich

Millennium Library, The Forum, Millennium Plain, Norwich NR2 1AW. We’ll take another look back at the area next month. IN ASSOCIATION WITH

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KLmagazine April 2015

Enjoying life with air source heating... T

he range of quality air source heating solutions available from King’s Lynn based 4 Way Refrigeration Ltd represent a major step forward in energy-eﬃcient climate control, but the real test of the system’s many beneﬁts are best demonstrated in the real world – from real people in real homes. People like Mary Hamilton, whose recentlycompleted self-build project in Thornham left her with limited options on the heating front. “There’s no gas in the village and I couldn’t have oil because of planning regulations,” she says. “I didn’t have the room for ground source heating, and my visit to a self-build show in London simply left me more confused.” Wanting the reassurance of using a local company, Mary found the perfect answer – and the perfect service – when she met Steve Simpson of 4 Way Refrigeration Ltd. “I was unsure about air source heating

at first as it’s a new technology and not many people have it,” she says, “but Steve immediately impressed me with the depth of his knowledge and his commitment to helping me find the best heating system for my new home.” Talking her though the options and explaining the benefits, Steve also went out of his way to address Mary’s concerns over how noisy her new air source and underfloor heating system might be. “He even took me to a home 4 Way Refrigeration had worked on previously so I could talk to the homeowner and see the system in operation,” says Mary. “That was brilliant – and really helped confirm that he knew exactly what he was talking about.” Of course, the proof of the system’s efficiency only became clear when Mary started enjoying life in her new home. “It's absolutely wonderful,” says Mary. “It’s warm all the time and it’s so easy to keep different rooms at different temperatures. Against Steve’s advice I did

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have some radiators fitted, but I’ve never used them – and the electric heater I bought just in case has never even been turned on!” When they visit, Mary’s two daughters (one lives in a modern house and the other lives in a Victorian property) are both full of praise for the system’s ability to provide a constant, controllable and comfortable environment. And the running costs are just another benefit. “I thought Steve’s claims about low running costs had to be taken with a pinch of salt, but I was wrong,” says Mary. “It used to cost around £2,000 a year to keep my house warm – but it’s now less than £500. That’s for heating, hot water and all the other electrical appliances – including the lights and the washing machine!” To discover what a difference air source heating can make to you and your home, contact Steve and his team at 4 Way Refrigeration today – for a totally local, totally professional and totally reliable service.

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KLmagazine April 2015

PICTURES: © CHRIS STEELE-PERKINS/MAGNUM

Local Life

ABOVE: The photographs of Chris Steele-Perkins capture the life of the Holkham Estate – from the Coke family (above) in the Hall’s Saloon to the household staﬀ having breakfast (detail, opposite)

Holkham Hall: as you’ve never seen it before... You may think Downton Abbey gives you a good idea of what life is like on a country estate, but a new exhibition at Holkham Hall takes a unique and revealing look at the reality behind the scenes

he annual exhibition at Holkham Hall is always guaranteed to be a fascinating and illuminating experience – whether it’s understanding how the First World War aﬀected the estate (the subject of last year’s exhibition) or 2013’s look at the work of society dressmaker – and Viscountess Coke’s mother – Belinda Bellville. It’s always a chance to take a closer look at the Holkham estate and its impact on both the historic and present-day Norfolk. That look has probably never been

KLmagazine April 2015

closer (or more personal) than this year’s exhibition, which is open until the end of October and features the people and personalities without whom the estate simply wouldn’t be the same. Naturally enough, it’s called Behind Closed Doors: A Year in the Life of a Working Estate. For a whole year, Viscount and Viscountess Coke gave the renowned Magnum photographer Chris SteelePerkins unrestricted access to both their home and the estate. The result is a collection of stunning and intimate photographs that portray the reality of living and working on a

thriving country estate at the start of the 21st century. Fans of Downton Abbey won’t be disappointed, but they may well be surprised. The modern estate – which covers some 25,000 acres – is a far more diverse and dynamic setup than anything Julian Fellowes could have imagined. Steele-Perkins’ wonderful photographs portray aspects of the estate rarely visible to visitors, oﬀering a unique glimpse into a world both familiar and extraordinary, and portraying how a young family, over 200 employees and 21 diﬀerent

PICTURES: © CHRIS STEELE-PERKINS/MAGNUM

Local Life

ABOVE: The farms department as seen by photographer Chris Steele-Perkins (right), who spent a year on the Holkham Estate producing a unique behind-the-scenes record

businesses live and work together in one of the most beautiful landscapes in Norfolk – if not in the whole country. “We are essentially a very private family, so it was a big step to invite someone in to be a part of life at Holkham for 12 months,” says Viscount Coke. “Holkham in this generation is a fascinating mix of business interests and custodian responsibilities. We must develop new ideas and create new income streams while maintaining the great heritage we have at Holkham. We also have a big responsibility to conserve the many aspects of the estate – from conservation of wildlife and landscapes to caring for great works of art and historic furniture and furnishings.” With such a responsibility, you might well wonder where on earth you start. “This can only be achieved through teamwork, and we are fortunate to have such excellent teams looking after everything at Holkham,” says Viscount Coke. “We hope this new exhibition will provide a real insight into the life of our estate and the people behind it.” This unique behind-the-scenes look at a country estate was also a change of direction for the photographer Chris Steele-Perkins himself, a member of the Magnum collective highlyrespected for their work documenting poverty around Britain. Whatever his preconceptions of the project, he found the experience rather

familiar. “I started to think of the estate in nautical terms,” he says. “A long time ago I’d spent a week on the aircraft carrier HMS Invincible – where the crew was organised into myriad teams but worked together as an organic whole when needed. Holkham is similar: building maintenance, farming, forestry, gamekeeping, with their officers and their petty officers and their ratings, in effect.” While working on the estate, SteelePerkins was actually able to stay in the Hall itself, and as the family got to know him better he graduated from the butler’s quarters to the guest bedrooms. He particularly remembers one night staying in a bedroom with Italian Renaissance paintings on the wall. “I was staying in a room which had a footprint bigger than that of my whole house in London!” he recalls. For a look at Holkham as you’ve never seen it before, Behind Closed Doors is an amazing and unforgettable experience.

Meet the photographer Wednesday, 15th April 6.15pm Chris Steele-Perkins (above) will be returning to Holkham this month for a talk and presentation in the Saloon, describing the year he spent capturing the full range of life on the estate in his unique photographic style. He’ll also be signing copies of his book A Place in the Country, which documents the project and includes many photographs not featured in the exhibition itself. Tickets to the event are £18 and include a glass of wine or soft drink and an opportunity to view the photographic exhibition in the Statue Gallery. For more details, see www.holkham.co.uk or telephone 01328 710227.

The exhibition can be viewed when the Hall is open until October 31st from 12noon-4pm on Sundays, Mondays and Thursdays. Admission to Behind Closed Doors is included the Hall and Walled Gardens ticket price. For more details and information, please visit www.holkham.co.uk.

KLmagazine April 2015

West W est Norfolk Nor folk Glass A family firm since 1967

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KLmagazine April 2015

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The team that’s on your side and at your service For close to half a century, Doubleday has been making light work of the toughest jobs for local customers – but there’s a lot more to this family-run business than tractors and mowers... oubleday has been quite literally part of the landscape for generations – and the family-based company has come a very long way from its origins in a small blacksmith’s shop in Holbeach St Johns at the start of the 1970s. Having established a sound local reputation manufacturing (and servicing) cultivation equipment, John W Doubleday Ltd took on the John Deere franchise in 1982 and the rapid growth of the business saw it acquire Bourne Tractors in 1988. Further expansion came with the 1999 acquisition of Evergreen Tractors at St Germans just outside King’s Lynn, and last year Doubleday celebrated over 40 years in the business by opening a brand new state-of-the-art depot in Swineshead.

D 40

For Doubleday’s Roy Pickett, there’s a very good reason for the company’s high standing in the region – and its continued success. “We’re well known and we’re well respected for exceptional standards of reliability and professionalism,” he says. “That’s because the wide range of our products and the geographical range of our operations allow us to provide a service to all customers – no matter where they are or what they need.” Indeed, that also applies to when they need it. Doubleday’s back-up and support services are second to none, and the parts and maintenance teams are totally committed to serving the needs of both the home gardener and the agricultural customer.

KLmagazine April 2015

“For both our commercial and domestic customers, the weekend is by far their busiest time,” says Roy. “It doesn’t matter whether they’re in the ﬁeld or in the garden, they need to know that if they order a part on a Friday it’s going to be there the next day. They’re relying on us to get a particular job done – and that’s exactly what we’re here for.” That level of service is only possible through a complete understanding of customer needs. Of course, there’s nothing like a bit of hands-on experience, so at Doubleday you’ll find a wide range of demonstration machines available to try out and explore, and a wealth of experience and expertise to ensure you’re getting the best results possible. In the showroom itself, meanwhile, Gary Russell handles all face-to-face enquiries – and his in-depth knowledge covers everything from the very latest ride-on mower to the single bolt you need to keep your existing machinery working at peak performance. He’s also your friendly source for making the most of Doubleday’s comprehensive parts and accessories supply – belts, oil, filters, batteries, and everything else you need – that can be ordered right up to 6pm at the height of the season and be ready for collection by 8am the following day. And just in case Gary’s not about or you simply can’t visit the showroom in person, you can access the replacement parts catalogue every minute of every day from the Doubleday website. But there’s even more to Doubleday than tractors, mowers and spares. There’s plenty of appeal for the whole family thanks to a range of lifestyle and leisure products that ranges from fashionable country clothing to toys, collector’s models, and radio-controlled vehicles. It’s no wonder younger visitors get just as much from a trip to Doubleday as the grown-up customers. “I think that’s key to the whole Doubleday experience,” says Roy. “Because we’ve always been a family-run business, we’ve always been a very family-friendly business too. It’s about lifestyles rather than machines. We’ve always concentrated on the personal touch and oﬀered every customer a truly local and truly individual service.” Doubleday really has been part of the landscape for generations – and that approach will undoubtedly continue to serve the local area for generations to come.

DOUBLEDAY PART OF THE LANDSCAPE FOR GENERATIONS

KLmagazine April 2015

Doubleday King’s Lynn, Lynn Road, St Germans, King’s Lynn, Norfolk PE34 3EU Telephone: 01553 617666 Website: www.doubledaygroup.co.uk

Love Gardening? You’ll love Thaxters!

hy not combine a trip to Thaxters with a visit to the beautiful Coastline? Our garden centre is packed full with inspiring ideas for your garden, including an extensive selection of plants, seeds and gifts.

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Email: dmgtimber@fsmail.net | Address: Merries Farm, Pullover Road, West Lynn, King’s Lynn, PE34 3LS KLmagazine April 2015

nown as formerly k

A fresh approach to professional lawncare... Discover how Just Lawns can help you achieve a brighter, better looking and healthier lawn – and keep it in perfect condition!

t the start of the year, and after 10 years as a Countrywide Lawndoctor franchise, Just Lawns Ltd has been launched as an independent lawncare company, continuing to serve existing customers in West Norfolk and East Cambridgeshire. We pride ourselves on being different to other lawncare companies – free to use whichever suppliers we think are best suited for a particular project, we have many more options available to us. OUR SERVICES After a free survey of your lawn, we’ll give you a firm quotation for a programme of treatments. You’re under no obligation to proceed, we don’t use hard sell techniques, and we won’t sell you anything you don’t need – we simply offer honest, sustainable and cost effective lawncare. There’s no contract to sign (just tell us if you no longer require our services!) and if you’re happy with our recommended treatment we can start as soon as possible. OUR PRODUCTS Almost all domestically available lawn fertilisers are low grade, high in soil contaminants, and designed to give maximum ‘green up’ – effectively, they’re cosmetic treatments. At Just Lawns we believe in only using soil friendly, professional products which have been blended specifically for us. We believe in using only low salt fertilisers, because we know salt damages the soil’s delicate biology. Many chemically produced fertilisers carry huge amounts

KLmagazine April 2015

of salt, and lawn sand is probably the most damaging because it’s made almost entirely of salt in the form of ammonium and ferrous sulphates. While these products aren’t harmful to grass, their overuse can have a dramatic eﬀect on the soil’s biology. Our weed controls are also soil friendly and come in liquid forms for better contact – and they work wonders! THATCH If your lawn feels ‘spongy’ to walk on it’s likely the thatch level is too high, and has been fed with the wrong products. Thatch is a layer of tightly interwoven GRASS redundant stems and roots that should be broken H THATC down by the biology in the soil. In an ideal IL SO situation, thatch should be broken down as fast as it forms, but in many cases this doesn’t happen due to damage to the biology, and so the thatch builds up unchecked. This can lead to all kinds of problems such as moisture and air not reaching the roots. If the thatch level is too thick, the grass is probably going to die at some point through drought stress. SCARIFYING AND AERATION Both these tasks are designed to reduce and break down thatch levels. Scarifying is a vertical cut which penetrates the thatch layer and reduces the levels, while aeration is designed to bypass the layer by

introducing channels that allow air and moisture to penetrate. Both procedures have a major impact on the removal and control of moss, which can flourish where the grass is weak and has little defence. SOIL CARE Soil is the single most important factor in determining how good your lawn looks, and soil types vary hugely – from really sandy loams to clay. Your soil should be teeming with biological life such as beneficial bacteria and fungi – they’re essential for keeping the soil balance correct and everything working as it should. We rely on these elements to break down organic matter such as thatch (see image left). In some soils, the bacterial content doesn’t work as effectively as it should – in sandy soils, for instance, it drains too quickly during the summer months. This is why we use natural soil stimulants such as humic and fulvic acids, and seaweed. We can even add live beneficial bacteria and fungi to our fertilisers to further boost the microbe levels. If you’re looking for a brighter, healthier and better looking lawn, call us for a free lawn survey and start your lawn’s improvement today!

Tel: 01553 842355 Mobile: 07817 258051 Web: www.justlawnsnorfolk.co.uk E-mail: info@justlawnsnorfolk.co.uk

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Kennels

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Pets

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

SMALL BITES

Helping give pets a second chance... here’s a great amount of pleasure to be had in researching and sourcing a new puppy or kitten, and we’re happy to offer help in this adventure with the expertise of our qualified behaviourist. However, we also recognise that many people often go out specifically seeking a pet that needs a second chance. These rescued pets, often from loving homes initially, find themselves in a rehoming centre for a number of reasons and they all need a new, devoted, and caring home. Cats Protection works incredibly hard to rehome cats and kittens, and both the RSPCA and Sue Duffield at the Brambles in Denver rehome cats, dogs, rabbits and guinea pigs. I really admire their total commitment and dedication to improving the lives of these vulnerable animals. Here at the practice we’ve often fallen for an animal that needs that

second chance. It’s a perk of the job! From the loveable abandoned kitten to the unclaimed injured dog, we’ve all been tempted – and many of us have taken another furry friend home. We recognise the commitment that an often nervous pet is to their newfound family. The animal has to meet its new owners (and existing pets) in unfamiliar surroundings, and it’s a major experience for any cat or dog – even more so if their early life has lacked love or socialisation. It takes time, it takes patience and it takes understanding. Again, we’re here to help. We oﬀer a free health check for your new friend(s), and Simonne’s help as a qualiﬁed behaviourist will help the new relationship go as easily as possible. There are also some great products that can reduce the initial stress and make the introductory period go smoothly. These include plug-in

his time of year you might well be planning your summer holidays. For some pet owners this is time well spent with their pets, but for those having to leave their pets behind it can mean time separated. I’d like to remind all pet owners – particularly dog owners – of the pet passport scheme, whereby dogs and cats can travel to Europe. It’s now a simple procedure involving a rabies vaccination, microchipping and the issuing of a passport – and then your pet can happily travel abroad with you. If you’re interested, please call us for more information – and we can let all family members enjoy the holidays!

devices to help cats (and dogs) in a new home, and there are even collars for dogs that emit a feel-good pheromone inside and outside their new home. If you are planning on giving a pet a second chance, we’d love to help. Book your free health check for any rescued pet, and we’ll give you a free ﬂea and worming medicine to get you started. We love the stories people tell us of how they came by their ‘second chance’ pets, and we’re currently running a competition on our Facebook page to ﬁnd the best rescue story! You can win a prize for yourself and for your pet by telling us how you gave a new home to an animal in need.

London Road Vets

@LondonRoadVets

www.makeyourpetsmile.co.uk

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

KLmagazine April 2015

Norfolk is at the very centre of the British bird migration phenomenon during the Spring â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s one of the very best areas in the British Isles to see migration in action...

KLmagazine April 2015

PICTURES: OLIVER REVILLE

Local Life

ABOVE: The delightful Sedge Warbler spends its winters in Africa, south of the Sahara Desert, but will soon be returning to Norfolk for the summer, along with the Wheatear (opposite)

Norfolk’s skies are alive with spring migrants As the local coastline starts welcoming back untold thousands of migratory birds, Oliver Reville of the One Stop Nature Shop lets us into one of Norfolk’s best-kept birdwatching secrets...

he migration of birds is a fascinating and remarkable act which is always a fantastic spectacle to observe. All around the world birds move in huge numbers during Spring and Autumn to (and from) their breeding grounds. Norfolk is at the very centre of the British bird migration phenomenon during the Spring and this makes it one of the very best areas in the British Isles to see migration in action. At this time of the year, the last of Norfolk’s fantastic wintering PinkFooted geese have now left, moving

KLmagazine April 2015

north to breed, and they’re now being followed by other migratory birds such as Thrushes, Snow Buntings and wintering duck species such as Teal and Wigeon. With the start of April we’ll have also said goodbye to the last of the Hen Harriers that have graced the marshes along the coast since the Autumn. These wintering species are now being replaced with spring migrants. Birds such as Sand Martins and Wheatears have already started to return to Norfolk, but this month will see the greatest arrival of migratory birds. Reed and Sedge Warblers will begin

to return to our coastal reed beds and the first Ring Ouzels and Yellow Wagtails will begin to filter through. Many of these species stay in Norfolk for the summer to breed, and at times the woodlands can appear alive with the song of species such as Whitethroat, Willow Warbler and Chiffchaff. The famous Sandwich, Common and Little Terns also return during April to Blakeney Point and other parts of Norfolk’s north coast. They’re unmistakable and easy to find throughout the summer months. Last – but by no means least – is the

PICTURES: OLIVER REVILLE

Local Life

return of our Swallows and House Martins. At the start of April there’s usually a small amount, but by the end of the month both these iconic species will be here in large numbers, filling the skies with their unmistakable shapes and sounds. With so many sites on offer along the Norfolk coast there’s certainly no shortage of places to visit, but during Spring some are better than others and choosing the right one can lead to a fantastic wildlife experience. The famous sites such as Titchwell RSPB, Cley NWT and Holme NWT offer excellent birding experiences throughout the year, but during migration it can often be worthwhile visiting a lesser-known site in the search of these spring species. Burnham Overy Dunes and Gun Hill is one of Norfolk’s best kept secrets for birding, especially at this time of year. Its sea wall walk and dune system at the end is lined with habitat which is perfect for migrating birds to stop and rest up before continuing their journey. Following the map featured above, the track (F) is lined with hedges which hold Spring migrants such as Whitethroat, Blackcap, Willow Warbler and Cuckoos. There are a couple of gates to negotiate but the track then opens out to fields on either side. These fields are grazed, but waders are present here in the form of Oystercatcher, Curlew and Lapwing. The grassland soon becomes wetter

(B) and a few small pools can be seen. Skylarks are regulars here in the summer months and Reed Bunting and Linnet at other times of the year. The reeds near the pool just before the raised sea wall are a good place to find migrant warblers. Reed, Sedge and Cetti’s Warbler are all evident due to their vocal nature – but they’re often difficult to see. As you climb onto the sea wall (C) you’ll notice a large pool surrounded by reeds in the field to the east. In spring migrant Terns are often seen here and the raised position of the location allows good views as far as Brancaster in the west and the Holkham pines to the east. Flyover Spoonbills and Egrets are regular in Spring and Summer. Heading north you’ll eventually come

to a site known as Gun Hill (E). This is a fantastic dune system with a lot of dense scrub, ideal for ﬁnding migrating birds. Whitethroats, Blackcaps, Redstarts, Wheatears, Goldcrests, Ring Ouzels and much more can be found when the right conditions lead to these migrating birds appearing to literally drop out of the sky. From whichever route you take after the boardwalk you have to return by the route which took you out to the dunes. This isn’t a hardship though as it’s a stunning location and there’s always something to see. It takes roughly 30-50 minutes to walk the route from the car park to the dunes but it is easily possible to spend a whole day here, especially in spring when the area is teeming with birds.

OLIVER REVILLE is manager of the One Stop Nature Shop at Burnham Deepdale and regularly updates sightings of local and rare birds seen in North Norfolk. News is provided by local birdwatchers and The Rare Bird Alert pagers. “We’re always keen to chat to visitors about what birds have been seen recently,” says Oliver. “We’re also happy to give advice on the best locations to see specific species like Barn Owls and Pink Footed Geese – and the most active migration spots!” For more details, visit the One Stop Nature Shop at 9 Dalegate Market, Burnham Deepdale, Norfolk PE31 8FB. You can also contact the shop on 01485 211223 or by visiting the website at www.onestopnature.co.uk

KLmagazine April 2015

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5 Station Road, Heacham, Kingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Lynn, Norfolk PE31 7HG. 01485 571789 | arcoworkshop@posmail.co.uk | www.arcotoolhire.co.uk KLmagazine April 2015

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KLmagazine April 2015

“Our customers say they love our clothes because they love the fabrics. They don’t just look fabulous – they’re a joy to wear as well!” CHERYL DAUBNEY

A new era in local chic... t’s time to open a new chapter in local style as Cheryl Daubney celebrates the opening of her new Allez Chic boutique at Castle Rising. “We really needed a location that did justice to the quality of the clothes and fitted the ethos of what Allez Chic is all about,” says Cheryl. “I’d always thought that Castle Rising would be an ideal setting for us, and thanks to a chance encounter and some perfect timing we’ve been fortunate enough to find a home here!” Fortunate indeed. The new Allez Chic boutique is located in The Old School in the picturesque village, and it’s a lovely open space with high ceilings, oak beams, and plenty of light – both from the many traditional windows and the modern suspended LED panels. It’s a suitably impressive setting for a range of stylish and distinctive clothing that’s not generally found on the high street. From fashion houses such as Marble, Choise, Micha, Eden Rock and Pomodoro, Allez Chic oﬀers a wide range of beautiful

KLmagazine April 2015

collections covering everything from casual day wear to smart and formal outfits, and including styles for all ladies of all ages – and all sizes. There’s a strong Scandinavian presence among the British and other continental labels, testament to the country’s growing reputation for combining high levels of quality with an equally high degree of style – something that’s close to Cheryl’s heart. “Allez Chic is all about maximising quality, style and comfort,” she says. “Our customers say they love our clothes because they love the fabrics. They don’t just look fabulous – they’re a joy to wear as well!” Even little ones are catered for, thanks to Petite Chic – which features a striking range of beautiful girl’s dresses that are handmade in Norwich. And if you thought the fitting rooms were particularly inviting, that’s because they were specially designed by Allez Chic to offer more space and to be fully wheelchair accessible. It’s a lovely – and a very thoughtful – touch. In addition to the clothes themselves, Allez Chic also offers a selection of

accessories including contemporary silver jewellery from Spanish designer Carmen Palop, beautiful pearl jewellery by The Little Pearl Shop, wonderful handbags by Kris-Ana, and a range of stylish organic cotton scarves from France. There’s even a dedicated gallery space highlighting the work of local artists. For a fresh look at fashion, visit the new home of Allez Chic in Castle Rising for a style that suits you.

Allez Chic

information

The Old School, Castle Rising, King’s Lynn Norfolk PE31 6AG Tel: 01553 631915 Web: www.allezchic.co.uk

fashion Fashion

Pastels are a perennial Spring favourite, but that’s no reason to leave things subtle and understated. Add a splash of colour and some floral detailing, and you’ll soon be making a striking impression. Here’s our pick of some of the best pastel looks from our local boutiques.

Dress by Michaela Louisa (£149) CINDYS | Sutton Bridge 01406 350961 KLmagazine April 2015

Dress by Michaela Louisa ELIZABETH DARBY | Fakenham 01328 855312 KLmagazine April 2015

Fashion

Yellow dress by Selected Femme (£70) GODDARDS | King’s Lynn 01553 772382 54

KLmagazine April 2015

Casual Fashion, Cruise Wear & Mother of the Bride

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KLmagazine April 2015

Fashion

Floral Skater dress (£40) and Peach jacket (£65) from Simply Be INTU CHAPELFIELD | Norwich 01603 753344 56

KLmagazine April 2015

of sheringham ltd

Mother of the Bride • Hats & Fascinators Evening and Cruise Wear • Smart Casual Day Wear

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KLmagazine April 2015

E lizabethD arby FAKENHAM

SPRING SUMMER 2015 COLLECTION

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pop in to see us and pick your new spring/summer wardrobe today! tel: 01366 388151 web: www.bearts.co.uk Brighton Mill, stowbridge, king’s lynn, PE34 3PD

Need Dentures? Then visit the ONLY expert denture clinic in your area.

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David Auker Jewellery – at your service! A sparkling range of quality jewellery services on your doorstep s one of the premier jewellers in the region, David Auker Jewellery in the centre of King’s Lynn is famous for stocking extensive ranges of famous-name brands. The store is currently oﬀering stunning collections by Thomas Sabo, Links of London, Endless Jewelry, Hot Diamonds and Clogau – and literally charming jewellery by popular names such as Trollbeads and Nomination. However, behind the scenes David Auker Jewellery has also been providing a comprehensive range of jewellery services for over 20 years thanks to a fully-equipped on-site workshop oﬀering everything you (and your jewellery) needs:

Service. It’s here that the creative talents and professional skills of David Auker and his team works with you every step of the way in creating totally individual bespoke commissions. They can also undertake the restoration, re-designing and remodelling of prized family heirlooms into distinctive contemporary or traditional pieces.

DESIGN SERVICE David Auker Jewellery’s on-site workshop is home to the company’s highly-regarded Design

REPAIRS From replacing stones to restringing pearls and beads, from re-sizing rings to hallmarking and rhodium plating, David Auker Jewellery can help restore your precious jewellery to its former beautiful standards. And the same applies to your treasured timepieces too! A complete watch repair and reconditioning service is available for everything from simple battery ﬁttings and re-sealing to glass replacements and movement servicing.

KLmagazine April 2015

VALUATIONS With the expertise of Debbie Bloodworth RJDip PJGem Dip, David Auker Jewellery is able to undertake professional (and confidential) jewellery valuations for all insurance and probate purposes. ENGRAVING For the perfect personal finishing touch, David Auker Jewellery offers a complete engraving service – whether on a silver tankard, baby bangle, or around the inside of a wedding ring. And don’t forget that upstairs at David Auker Jewellery you’ll find a floor dedicated to a selection of giftware for all special occasions. Photo frames and pens, cufflinks, candles and tableware – they’re all complemented by a selection of striking display pieces such as vases, lamps and objets d’art. Visit David Auker Jewellery for a completely personal and professional local service – and keep your jewellery in sparkling condition for years to come!

information

David Auker Jewellery 125 Norfolk Street, King’s Lynn PE30 1AP Tel: 01553 770536 Web: www.davidaukerjewellery.co.uk

KLmagazine April 2015

Local Life

Ian Ward’s exclusive portraits of Her Majesty As Queen Elizabeth II celebrates her 89th birthday this month, KL magazine photographer Ian Ward talks about Royalwatching and how he captured these never-seen-before portraits

n a few weeks’ time (April 21st to be exact) HM Queen Elizabeth II will celebrate her 89th birthday. The Queen of 16 of the 53 member states in the Commonwealth of Nations, she’s also Head of the Commonwealth and Supreme Governor of the Church of England. It’s a milestone in her remarkable life, but there’s an even bigger one on the horizon. On September 9th, Elizabeth II will become the longest-reigning British monarch in history when she

KLmagazine April 2015

overtakes Queen Victoria – who was on the throne (according to Buckingham Palace) for 23,226 days, 16 hours and 23 minutes. It’s a particularly momentous event, as Victoria was only 18 when she acceded the throne – Her Majesty, on the other hand, became Queen Elizabeth II on February 6th, 1952 at the age of 25 following the death of her father King George VI. Elizabeth II is also the longest-living British monarch (having overtaken Queen Victoria on that front in 2007),

and is the second longest-serving head of state alive today, after King Bhumibol Adulyadej of Thailand – who came to the throne in 1946. I was actually born on the Sandringham Estate and am consequently very used to seeing the Royal Family – either on a shoot, riding around in a Land Rover, riding a horse or taking lunch at a local pub. On these relaxed and informal encounters it’s diﬃcult to photograph the Queen, but not from a practical point of view. It simply doesn’t seem

Local Life

right to me. It’s an invasion of privacy. It’s well known that The Queen is a very religious person and she attends church every Sunday wherever she is – something we can witness at close quarters when she is resident at Sandringham, where she visits the lovely church of St. Mary Magdalene in the grounds of the house. What isn’t so well known is the fact that Christmas Day is the only day in the year where you can photograph the Royal family on Royal property – and as such, Sandringham is a very popular place to be on December 25th. Traditionally thousands of people will turn out on Christmas morning to greet the Royal Family, present flowers, and take images to remember the occasion. It’s a very special event to attend, but the issue of getting decent images of Her Majesty does pose a number of challenges. For the last five years, I’ve been arriving at Sandringham on the day at around 7.30am when it’s usually cold, snowing or raining – it’s the only way to ensure I can find a position to capture the events well. It’s great to see the Royal Family at very close quarters, and if you’re at the front of the crowd, it’s perfect for a good image or two. And therein lies the biggest problem. There are lots of obstacles in the way, and they’ll range from the security staff and police to helpers and other visitors. I enjoy the challenge of isolating a member of the Royal Family for a portrait that captures them at their best. I always try consciously to take images that are pleasing to the eye, flattering, and something I hope the subject would be pleased with (if I was ever fortunate enought to be in that position!) The Queen is probably the most difficult person to photograph on Christmas Day as she doesn’t walk around and greet the wellwishers. She will stand at the gate of the church,

collecting ﬂowers from children or (as she did last year) simply waiting for the car to return to the house. A long lens is needed to get in close enough for a good portrait. There are several other opportunities to photograph The Queen while she enjoys her Christmas break in Norfolk – she visits other churches on the estate and usually has a number of other duties to perform, but I’ve always found the Christmas Day church visit to be a bit special. But then so is the monarchy itself. I believe the Royal Family gives our country an identity and a living heritage – and they’re why millions of visitors a year come here keen to explore our modern-day monarchy and discover the history that survives. In Norfolk, we’re particularly fortunate to live in a part of the world that’s integral to the history of the Royal Family – and will undoubtedly continue

to be so for years to come. I hope you enjoy these images of Her Majesty and I’m already looking forward to December when I’ll have the chance to photograph the longest-serving monarch the world has ever seen. Happy Birthday, your Majesty!

KLmagazine April 2015

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PICTURES: LARRY MAURER / CHRISSIE WELLINGTON / WOMEN’S RUNNING

Local Life

ABOVE: Feltwell’s Chrissie Wellington has won the World Ironman triathlon title four times – the ﬁrst in her debut year as a professional

Chrissie Wellington’s inspirational journey... Chrissie Wellington only took up triathlon at the age of 30, but she became a world champion four times – and is now inspiring others. Emma Barnard does her best to catch up with her.

or someone who determined at the tender age of four to become a combine harvester driver, no one (not even herself) expected Chrissie Wellington to take up triathlon at the age of 30 and win the ﬁrst of four World Ironman titles in her debut year as a professional. Chrissie grew up in Feltwell and attended Downham Market High School and Sixth Form where she feels her experiences (together with being a member of Thetford Dolphins Swimming Club) shaped her as the person and athlete she is today. “We all have teachers and coaches that have inspired, guided and

KLmagazine April 2015

influenced us,” she says. “At Downham I was fortunate to be taught by some of the most passionate and dedicated teachers – not least Mrs Walton and Mrs Gap.” Chrissie took a rather unique path to professional sport and triathlon. “Never did I imagine during my time swimming at Thetford that I’d be laying down the groundwork to become a professional sportsperson!” she says. In 2004, a friend suggested Chrissie give triathlon a go. “I was attracted to the new challenge,” she says. “I did these first triathlons on an old, borrowed bike and a very big wetsuit that didn’t fit me!” At the time, Chrissie was working for

Defra, after gaining her Masters in International Development from Manchester University. Torn by her desire to work abroad (although Chrissie enjoyed these ﬁrst experiences of triathlon), she went to work in Nepal for 16 months in September of 2004. Her time in Nepal helped shape Chrissie for the challenges of triathlon. Living and working in Kathmandu, Chrissie developed a love of mountain biking. “I cycled in the countryside and around the city every morning before work,” she remembers. During one of the country’s religious festivals, Chrissie had some time oﬀ work and spent two whole weeks

PICTURES: LARRY MAURER / BROOKS RUNNING

Local Life

cycling with friends over the Himalayas from the capital of Tibet and back to Kathmandu. “The journey was 1,400km and we crossed mountain passes at over 5,000m and even cycled to the Everest Base Camp through sand and snow storms,” she recalls. “You lose many of the physical beneﬁts of being at altitude after a few weeks of returning to sea level, but I think the mental strength always stays with you.” When Chrissie returned to the UK in 2006, she entered some triathlons as an amateur and managed to qualify for the World Triathlon Championships, where she won the world amateur title. “I seriously couldn’t believe what I had achieved and had to decide whether or not to take the risk,” she says. “In February 2007 I gave up my job and became a professional triathlete – but I was only thinking of doing short course, Olympic distance – not Ironman.” To clarify, Olympic distance is a 1,500m swim, a 40km cycle and a 10km run – whereas an Ironman distance triathlon is a 3.86km swim, a 180.25km cycle, 66

and then a marathon distance run of 42.2km! For someone that didn’t even realise she had a talent for triathlon, Chrissie took part in an Ironman event in Korea less than six months after turning professional, won it and duly qualiﬁed for the World Championships in Hawaii six weeks later – which she also won. Chrissie went on to win three more World titles in 2008, 2009 and 2011 – and the achievement she’s most proud of is winning her fourth World Ironman Championship in Kona. “This was deﬁnitely the most gratifying, satisfying and proudest moment of my career,” she says. And she’s right to be proud. Two weeks before the championship, Chrissie had a bike crash, sustaining a number of serious injuries. “I dug to the very depths of my soul and truly pushed myself beyond any limit I thought existed,” she says. It was to be Chrissie’s last ever race as a professional. “At Kona 2011 I achieved my dream of having the ‘perfect race’, and to be honest that race meant that the huge personal challenge was

no longer there. It couldn’t get any better! So I knew I had to look forward, carve out a diﬀerent path full of new challenges and new adventures!” she says. Since retiring from professional triathlon in 2012, Chrissie is Head of Participation for parkrun (you’ll remember it was featured in February’s magazine) where she’s now developing ‘junior parkrun’ – and she’s also a motivational speaker. “I want to use my platform to drive change and enable people to realise the power of sport,” she says. “To me, sport is so much more than simply being a path to gold medals. It inspires, educates and empowers and I’ll always want to play a part in helping bring sport and physical activity into the lives of everyone, no matter who they are.” Despite all the beautiful places in the world Chrissie Wellington has competed in and travelled across, she still ﬁnds there’s nothing better than coming back to Norfolk. “Breckland Forest was my playground growing up,” she says. “There’s nothing better than coming home, being fed by my mum, and heading out for a run or a ride amongst the trees, with the big wide skies of Norfolk overhead.”

For more information and details on Chrissie, please visit her website at www.chrissiewellington.org KLmagazine April 2015

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KLmagazine April 2015

Poles, hoops and fitness!

f you’re looking for a truly unique way to complement your fitness regime, look no further than The Fitness Studios in King’s Lynn – which offers a full range of pole dancing and aerial hoop classes. And before you start thinking that hanging upside down on a pole or balancing within a suspended steel hoop were strictly the preserve of the circus and the burlesque, be prepared to think again. “People have a lot of misconceptions about pole dancing and aerial hoops, but they really are widely accepted and highly regarded as a form of fitness,” says The Fitness Studios’ Jane Cole. “Pole dancing was recently featured on ITV’s Get Your Act Together, and aerial hoops were in BBC1’s Tumble. That’s really raised the profile of the disciplines in the pole world – they’re even currently in the early stages of becoming full Olympic sports.” Jane should know – she has several years’ experience of both pole dancing and aerial hoops, holds the industryKLmagazine April 2015

leading Vertical Dance qualification, and is also a fully-qualified and REPs registered Personal Trainer. In addition to all that expert help and advice – whether you’re a complete beginner or a seasoned competitor – Jane’s also proud of the fact The Fitness Studios has one of the biggest facilities in the UK. In addition to being fun and endlessly challenging, both pole dancing and aerial hoop classes have genuine and proven fitness benefits. From building upper body strength to increasing flexibility and offering full body toning, Jane’s classes can improve your posture, build your confidence and energy levels – and even help with weight loss! “There aren’t many forms of fitness that can offer you a genuinely

complete body workout in one session,” says Jane, “and the thing many people find surprising about pole dancing and aerial hoop is that they’re suitable for everyone of all ages. My most mature student at the moment is 57 and she loves it!” For a thoroughly enjoyable, totally challenging and truly rewarding way to keep you and your body fit and healthy, contact Jane at The Fitness Studios for more details of her pole dancing and aerial hoop classes. It’s the fitness experience that’s quite literally poles apart!

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Food & Drink

ABOVE: For people wishing to eat seasonally and cut down on food miles, Norfolk is particularly well blessed with fabulous food choices

Chris Coubrough’s fresh food calendar There’s simply nothing better than enjoying locally-produced food – especially when it’s in season. Celebrity chef Chris Coubrough oﬀers a mouthwatering guide to the next 12 months

ood is always at its very best when eaten in season. That’s an indisputable fact as far as I’m concerned, and in my book it’s one not open to too much argument. Most of us have now grown so accustomed to having access to every single food all year round that we’ve lost our connection with it. A few decades ago it simply wasn’t possible to eat strawberries in the middle of winter. There were a few months in the summer when you could buy them local and fresh, or ‘pick your own’ – and that was that. But nowadays, strawberries get ﬂown thousands of miles into Britain all year round from wherever in the world they’re in season just to satisfy our

consumer longing. They’re not even allowed to ripen properly! Instead they get deliberately picked under ripe to ensure they never truly ripen – so they can’t go oﬀ before they get sold. That would cost the supermarkets money, obviously. I found it a source of growing annoyance that my children thought strawberries grew all year round, so now we only eat them in the summer. That doesn’t mean we can’t enjoy the taste of strawberries all year round though, because we make strawberry jam as a family (it’s a lot of fun!) and that sustains our craving for the fruit outside of the summer months. The same rule is applied to all other seasonal foods in the Coubrough

household, and just as importantly in my two north Norfolk hotels. You won’t find anything ‘out of season’ appearing on the menu at either The Crown in Wells or The Ship in Brancaster. No Peruvian asparagus flown across an ocean (or two) in a plastic bag. No way. Across the following pages you’ll find my personal Food Calendar for the next 12 months, which highlights the local, seasonal foods I think we should all be buying – and when. And to help you eat to the true beat of the seasons, I’m putting 12 recipes using the seasonal foods featured in the calendar on my website at www.flyingkiwiinns/recipes/ – for your delectation. Enjoy a year of truly seasonal food and you really will taste the difference.

KLmagazine April 2015

Food & Drink

April: Crab We’re truly blessed to be living in north Norfolk, because a strange quirk of geology has ensured we have by far the tastiest crustaceans in the land! The crabs living along our stretch of the North Sea coastline feed on micro-organisms which grow and live on a unique marine chalk reef – and it’s those tiny creatures that give our local crabs a much sweeter taste than those which feed on muddy sea beds. Cooking crab is relatively simple, and there are plenty of ways to eat and enjoy it – from serving it alongside a crisp seasonal salad to making crab cakes or turning it into a decadent crab bisque. It’s also extremely good for you! I buy all my crabs direct from the Frary family, who’ve ﬁshed the coast around Wells for generations, and I always look forward to them dropping their catch oﬀ at my hotels.

July: Strawberries There’s something quintessentially English about strawberries, but they also remind me of just how disconnected we’ve become from our food, and how we’ve lost contact with the way in which it arrives on our plates. Leaving aside the environmental eﬀects of ﬂying food thousands of miles around the world, who wants to eat strawberries with little or no taste? It used to annoy me that my children thought strawberries grew all year round, so now I take them to pick our own during the strawberry season. I love taking Lily and Max down to Wiveton Hall Farm for some PYO action. I love the fact you can actually smell the strawberries while you’re picking them. And they always taste fantastic! Don’t forget that making your own jam means you can enjoy the naturally beautiful taste of strawberries all year round guilt-free in the knowledge that you’re not racking up the food miles you’re responsible for.

KLmagazine April 2015

May: Asparagus

June: Elderflower

I adore asparagus – in fact, the mere thought of those little spears of delight poking their way through the soil is enough to set me daydreaming. The asparagus season is pretty short, so I always advise people who enjoy this most sought-after of spring vegetables to eat as much of them as they can while supplies last. Unfortunately asparagus isn’t ready to pick until the end of April – anything you’re offered before then has likely been exported thousands of miles from South America or grown under polythene. I was given half a dozen asparagus plants five years ago and I’ve pretty much been obsessed with them ever since! Once you’ve planted asparagus you can’t harvest it for the first three years to give it time to root properly. But boy, is it worth the wait.

The beginning of June signals the start of the elderflower season in Britain – and the chance to get out into the big wide countryside to do some good old-fashioned foraging. Elderflower grows plentifully along the hedgerows of England, so there’s no excuse for not helping yourself to handfuls of flowers and making your own elderflower cordial. I’ve never understood why so many people seem to prefer buying it ready-made at the supermarket when they could easily make it for nothing. Picking elderflowers with the kids is great fun! Just remember you need to pick the fluffy white flowers and not the brown ones. A bucket load of fluffies is more than enough to make a decent-sized batch of delicious cordial.

August: Sea bass

September: Wild duck

Sea bass is one of my favourite fish and living in north Norfolk means I’m lucky enough to be able to get my hands on the very freshest. The fishing boats that operate out of Wells catch sea bass close to shore when they’re on their way back from a long day crab and lobster pot hauling. I love it when they turn up at the back of The Crown with a hessian sack full of plump fresh sexy sea bass for my chefs and I to get to work on! But the great beauty of sea bass is that you don’t have to own a fishing boat to get your hands on them – they’re just as catchable from the shore using a long beachcasting rod. There’s nothing wrong with the taste of the farmed sea bass sold in a lot of supermarkets, but take it from me – it doesn’t compare with the way the way a wild fish tantalises your taste buds.

Now, I love Chinese food as much as the next man (or woman), but there’s so much more you can do with duck than wrap it in a pancake with cucumber and some hoisin sauce. Duck can be a beautifully tender meat, which is not only plentifully available in these parts but also very good for you (in moderation, as with everything else). Most good butchers have fresh duck for sale during the wildfowling season and if you don’t feel up to plucking and jointing it yourself they’ll do all the hard work for you. Late summer’s also the time when the fruits which make such a delicious accompaniment to duck meat are ripe for the picking. Plums, greengages and apples are all grown locally and can all be used to make sauces which help bring out the unique taste of duck. Duck with a fruit based sauce or jus – just as nature intended!

Food & Drink

October: Mussels

November: Sloes

December: Turkey

Mussels are one of the very few good things that come into season during the autumn and winter months, which makes them even more worthy of inclusion in this calendar. I buy all my mussels from the Frary family, the very same ﬁshermen who supply me with all my delicious crabs and lobsters. For me, the best way to eat mussels is ‘a la marinieres’ – serving them in their shells on top of a broth made from white wine, cream, garlic and shallots. There’s nothing like it. When you’ve devoured all the soft juicy mussels and discarded the shells you’re left with the most exquisite soup – it’s like two great meals in one! Fair play if you like your moules marinieres served with crusty bread – but for me it’s skinny fries every time!

Sloes are the fruit of the blackthorn and picking them to make sloe gin on a cold autumn day is another of life’s great pursuits, although it needs to be done carefully due to the tree’s wickedly sharp defensive spines! The footpath running along the edge of the pine woods from Wells to Lady Anne’s Drive in Holkham is a great place to go sloe picking. Pick them in November and your gin will be ready to drink (or at least drinkable!) three months later, but generally the longer you leave it the better it’ll taste. My advice is to freeze your sloes, don’t prick them. The process of freezing eventually ends in the skins splitting, bringing out the full colour and ﬂavour of the fruit. No doubt others will swear by the pricking method, but I believe the old adage that you shouldn’t pick sloes until after the ﬁrst frost is proof that freezing is the best method.

I almost chose goose as my December food choice, but then I remembered the fantastic Norfolk black turkeys I get from my main meat supplier, Arthur Howell. Arthur’s turkeys come from Maurice Clarke’s farm in North Elmham, near East Dereham, where they’re kept in oldfashioned ‘pole barns’. The barns have high ceilings and wire-netted sides so the turkeys get lashings of fresh air and sunlight. They aren’t overcrowded and have plenty of food and water and nice fresh straw underfoot. Arthur tells me Maurice says the birds are happier than if they were completely free range because they’re not so exposed to the elements when the weather’s bad. And who are we to argue?

January: Rhubarb

February: Venison

March: Oysters

I learned all about rhubarb when I visited the so-called ‘Rhubarb Triangle’ near Wakefield in West Yorkshire on a filming assignment. Up there, rhubarb is grown in the dark in sheds under special constructions called ‘forcers’ which resemble upturned chimney pots and protect the plants from frost as well as keeping them warm. When the rhubarb is ready it’s harvested by candlelight in the darkened sheds to produce sweeter, more tender stalks. Strangely, you can actually hear rhubarb growing – it makes a deep creaking sound which is easily audible if you’re in a forcing shed surrounded by hundreds of plants. Most people eat rhubarb in crumble form as a dessert served with custard, and why not? But it goes well with lots of other flavours including mackerel – alongside which I’ve served it in my hotels.

Venison is another food favourite of mine, particularly with all the great suppliers we have here in north Norfolk. I tend to get my venison from the Holkham Hall estate where you’ve no doubt seen the large herd of fallow dear grazing among the huge trees in the grounds. Some people are put oﬀ venison due to their ﬁrst experience of it, but cooked properly (and sparingly) it can be lovely and tender as well as comparatively healthy, as like much wild game it’s very low in cholesterol. Most of the venison we eat in Norfolk comes from our three native species of deer – red, fallow and roe. However, venison from species such as Chinese water deer, Japanese sika and particularly muntjac (all of which are introduced species) are never out of season, and are increasingly popular.

I love oysters, and March is officially ‘oyster month’. Most people think it’s mussels you can only eat when there’s an ‘r’ in the month but in fact it’s oysters the rule applies to. Native oysters are almost impossible to find along our part of the coast, so I tend to buy Pacific oysters from my supplier Loose’s of Brancaster. I’ve eaten oysters all around the world and I can honestly say the ones I’ve had in this country are the best I’ve had. Adding a few shallots and a dash of Tabasco is fine if that’s what you like but I like mine ‘au naturel’, tipped directly in the mouth from the shell. There’s nothing finer. I realise oysters are a ‘love them or hate them’ food but if you’ve found them difficult to stomach before, try cooked oysters as a way of weaning yourself into oyster eater territory. If that doesn’t work, there’s no hope for you. At least I tried!

KLmagazine April 2015

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KLmagazine April 2015

Food & Drink

INTERNATIONAL CARROT DAY 4th April 2015

International Carrot Day was founded in 2003 and is celebrated on April 4th all around the world – from the UK to Japan and from Russia to Australia.

Celebrate the carrot! uring the Battle of Britain the RAF began circulating stories about the aboveaverage consumption of carrots by their pilots. It was intended as a way of explaining why they were so much more effective than the Germans at shooting down enemy planes, especially at night. Deflecting attention from the RAF’s use of radar and red light in aircraft instruments, the story of the orange vegetable’s contribution to the war effort does, however, have a firm basis in fact. Carrots get their characteristic colour from beta-carotene, which we turn into vitamin A – a lack of which can indeed cause poor vision. Happily, it’s a deficiency that can be restored by adding it back into the diet. It was this idea that eating plenty of carrots could help you see in the dark that encouraged us to grow more and more of them – and today carrots are one of the most versatile, reasonablypriced and popular vegetables in the UK. Carrots have a lovely sweet flavour and a super crisp texture, but before you start munching your way to better night-time vision, it’s worth noting that

only 3% of that beta-carotene is released when you digest raw carrot – a figure which jumps to 39% by cooking them. When buying carrots, make sure to choose ones that feel firm to the touch, have a smooth skin and a bright colour – however you plan on using them. Actually, I don’t know of many vegetables that are quite so versatile. Raw grated carrot can be a great addition (in terms of looks, texture and taste) to a simple rice, pasta or nutbased salad. Cooked carrots make a popular accompanying vegetable to virtually any meal and combine particularly well with other root vegetables such as swede or parsnip – and they can be included in soups, stews and pies. If you want to be a bit more creative, you’ll find there are plenty of things that go particularly well with cooked carrots – spices such as cardamom, cumin and coriander, and herbs such as

parsley and chives (but not all at the same time!) Carrots can also be used in a variety of sweet recipes such as carrot cake and Christmas pudding. However you plan on using them, your carrots should be peeled, topped and tailed and washed before cutting into rounds, cubes or strips. If you’re using baby carrots they’ll still need to be scrubbed, topped and tailed, but don’t start chopping them up – they’re supposed to be cooked whole. Instead of simply boiling them, however, why not try baking them by preheating the oven to 190°C (gas mark 5) and placing your sliced carrots in an ovenproof dish with a knob of butter, 5 tablespoons of water and a tablespoon of clear honey? Cover the dish tightly with foil or a lid, and cook for 50-55 minutes or until they’re tender. Although they don’t really have a mystical power to enable you to see in the dark, there’s no doubt that there’s more to the humble carrot than meets the eye.

KLmagazine April 2015

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Food & Drink

e p i c Ref the o h t n o M INGREDIENTS Pork Cheek 2 good size pork cheeks (sinew removed) 1 tsp salt 1 sprig thyme 1 sprig rosemary 1 ltr duck fat Celeriac Cream ½ celeriac peeled and diced ½ celeriac peeled and cut into 1.5cm cubes 2 shallots diced 1 stick celery diced 1 clove garlic smashed 100g unsalted butter 300 ml good quality chicken stock Chardonnay vinegar Burnt Celeriac ½ celeriac, peeled and cut into 1.5cm cubes Some left over duck fat Puffed Pork 500g piece of pork skin, preferably back and about 1cm thick (it must have a good layer of fat attached or this will not work) Mushrooms A handful of wild or cultivated mushrooms A knob of butter Salt

Pork cheek, celeriac cream & mushrooms METHOD 1 For the pork cheek, combine the salt, thyme and rosemary and rub into the pork cheeks, then cover and refrigerate for 1 hour. Remove and wash under cold water, then pat dry. 2 Place the pork cheeks in the duck fat and bring to a gentle simmer for 2 hours, then remove and drain. 3 For the celeriac cream, sweat the shallot, celery and garlic in 50g of the butter until soft (do not colour). Add the celeriac and stock, simmer until stock has almost evaporated, transfer to a vita prep and blend with remaining butter until smooth, season and add vinegar to taste.

4 For the burnt celeriac, gently cook the celeriac in the duck fat until soft, then remove and drain. Heat a frying pan until smoking and add the celeriac and colour on all sides (this will blacken but it produces a wonderful flavour!) 5 For the puffed pork, simmer the skin in water for 3 hours, then remove and drain. Dehydrate over night until crisp. Break into small pieces and fry at 180°c until puffed up and crispy, then remove and drain. Place in zip lock bag and smash into smaller pieces. 6 To finish, gently fry the mushrooms in butter until soft, then season.

Recipe by Market Bistro 11 Saturday Market Place, King's Lynn PE30 5DQ Tel: 01553 771483 Web: www.marketbistro.co.uk KLmagazine April 2015

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KLmagazine April 2015

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Food & Drink

RestaurantReview

KL magazine enjoys a genuine Taste of India...

ithout a doubt, Indian cuisine has become one of the UK’s most popular and favourite foods, and one place I’ve been very eager to try is the newly-opened Taste of India on Blackfriars Street in King’s Lynn. I’d already heard many great things about it, and knowing it had been taken over by Ronny – the friendly face behind many successful Indian restaurants in and around King’s Lynn – I had a feeling I was in for an authentic taste experience. For over 15 years now Ronny’s meant a huge amount to the community in King’s Lynn and over those years he’s demonstrated a genuine flair for fantastic food. He certainly knows what it takes to run a Indian restaurant worth

returning to – several times! As soon as we entered the Taste of India we were warmly welcomed in and shown to our tables. The restaurant looks amazing and has a real clean, modern vibe with black leather chairs, booths and funky lighting. We couldn’t help noticing that although it was early on a Tuesday evening, the restaurant was already very busy, with a real buzz and nice, friendly atmosphere. Having made our way through the truly extensive menu (which was packed with a huge variety of mouthwatering dishes) we decided to ask for recommendations, so the waiter listened to our favourite likes (and our dislikes) and offered his suggestions. It was a lovely touch, and an exciting way of discovering new dishes we probably wouldn’t have normally tried. To start we were served poppadums and chutneys – which included Taste of India’s famous, exclusive, and particularly delicious homemade onion pickle. We were then served Stick Masala, which comprised marinated sliced chicken in a peanut cream sauce, and King Prawn Poori – spicy prawns in a masala sauce served in Indian poori bread. Both were beautifully flavoured and extremely moreish. For our main course we decided to

share a few dishes accompanied by freshly-cooked garlic naan bread straight out of the restaurant’s clay oven. Our curries included a highly-spiced Chicken Zalwala for myself (it’s a dish that can be prepared with lamb and prawns if you prefer), while my friend’s milder tastes were treated to Chicken Shatkora, a popular dish from West Bengal – the Shatkora is a native citrus fruit that gives the sauce a very refreshing tang. In addition to the Egg Fried Rice and Chicken Tikka Rice we also discovered Saag Ponis (spinach with Indian cheese in a creamy sauce) and Courgette Bhaji – which was a whole taste sensation in itself. If you do have a sweet tooth and still have some room left (unlike us!), you can end your evening with a range of desserts such as traditional Indian ice cream (in various flavours), sweet Indian doughnuts, or a refreshing sorbet. If you can’t wait for the evening, the Taste of India also offers lunch buffets between 12-3pm every day, and if you really do fancy a taste of the UK instead, English breakfasts are served from 10am every morning! Thanks to Ronny and his talented chefs at the Taste of India, it’s easy to see why Indian cuisine is so popular. Wonderful food, wonderful evening. It won’t be long before we’re back!

FOOD

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TASTE OF INDIA 2-4 Blackfriars Street, King’s Lynn PE30 1NP Telephone: 01553 772343 Web: www.tasteofindia-kingslynn.co.uk KLmagazine April 2015

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Food & Drink

Tathstees of Month THE CHOCOLATE DELI Little Walsingham This wonderful shop just five miles from the north Norfolk coast makes and sells some truly delicious creations. Aside from bars, lollies and bagged treats, chocolatier Dale Skipper also creates an unusual range of chocolate skulls! The Chocolate Deli has also rubbed shoulders with the stars – making a chocolate birthday sculpture for pop star Katy Perry and delightful edible gifts for the 2012 Brit Awards. Demand is so high at Easter staff has to double to cope with demand for the tasty eggs. GNAW Brooke Gnaw is now a well-established and popular chocolate maker and they’re from right here in Gnawfolk! Their distinctive, colourful branding and bold toppings have set Gnaw apart since they first opened in 2011. Today – in addition to the famous bars – they create buttons, hot chocolate shots, and treats called ‘chompers’, ‘nibbles’, and ‘goodee boxes’. Yummy!

Discover the best Norfolk chocolate! Norfolk has an ever-expanding number of chocolatiers and when better to discover their delectable treats than at Easter? From beautiful artisan chocolatiers to large scale producers, it really is time to treat yourself to some pure indulgence... 80

CHERRY TREE CHOCOLATES Hunstanton This high-end chocolate shop in Hunstanton stocks around 120 varieties of chocolate from twelve of the top chocolatiers from Belgium and many are finished by hand. Owner Caroline Odd brings in many unique flavoured chocolates, such as gin, mojito and strawberry daiquiri – and with a ‘build your own box’ option available, this shop is simply too mouth-watering not to try for yourself! KINNERTON CONFECTIONERY Fakenham Moving away from the handmade and the artisan, we have one of the UK’s biggest chocolate manufacturers right on our doorstep. Kinnerton was established in 1978 and makes a staggering 20 million easter eggs every year! With over 700 staff and 10 million advent calendars to produce in time for Christmas, that’s a whole lot of chocolate!

KLmagazine April 2015

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KLmagazine April 2015

interiors

A special feature on avoiding the 10 most common interior design mistakes

KLmagazine April 2015

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Interiors

Good interior design: the secrets of success... There’s nothing more impressive than a stunning interior, and few things more frustrating than getting it not quite right. But achieving the home of your dreams is simpler than you may think

t happens to all of us at some point – you’re out shopping and see the perfect home decor accessory. Almost immediately you think it’s going to look absolutely perfect in your lounge or dining room. Quite naturally, you give in to the impulse to buy and excitedly bring home your new-found treasure – only to discover that what you thought was the ideal ﬁnishing touch looks frankly hideous when put in place. You’re left somewhat nonplussed. What were you thinking? Where did you go wrong? What most of us don’t understand is

that interior design takes a very keen and knowledgeable eye. We may be out shopping and see something we love, but that doesn’t necessarily mean it will look equally amazing in our home. Interior designers understand how colour, lighting, room size, scale, and placement all combine to aﬀect how items look in a room and dictate whether they’ll make or break a room design. There are a lot of common mistakes that almost everyone makes when designing their own interiors. Here, we’re taking a look at the ten most common interior design mistakes and how to avoid making them.

SCALE IN INTERIOR DESIGN When you enter a room, it should be rather like a cityscape – a fascinating combination of diﬀerent heights. You never want everything in a room to be at the same level or the same size. It’s something easily accomplished with diﬀerent heights and sizes in your furnishings, art placement and window treatments. Scale is the number one mistake that virtually all of us make when it comes to interior design. This is probably because it takes a truly talented eye (and a keen sense of visual balance) to decorate a room with impeccable

KLmagazine April 2015

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Interiors scale. Some people put far too many small things in a room, thereby cluttering the room and not giving the eyes a place to land. Similarly, others will put too many large and bulky items into one room, making it look stuffed and small. The secret to proper scale lies in having a well-planned mixture of different shapes, heights and sizes. If there’s only one thing you hire an interior designer for, it should be for help with proportion and scale. With the right scale your rooms will be well on their way towards a successful overall design. SHOP AROUND AND BUDGET We’re all prone to impulse buys. That’s not to say you shouldn’t buy something you fall immediately in love with, but it’s essential to keep the receipt in case that contemporary armchair or retrostyle mirror doesn’t work quite the way you’d originally thought. Before heading to the showrooms and stores, it’s always best to have a definite plan and a well-established budget. First, your rooms will need to be measured and furniture placement and their relative sizes need be planned properly. Don’t worry – there are lots of room arrangement tools online that are both free and easy to use. These will give you a great start. Go into a showroom with a plan in place, helping you know exactly what you want and making sure you stay within your budget. Buyer’s remorse is an awful feeling, so plan first and shop later.

PICTURE: MAB FURNITURE / AVAILABLE FROM UNIQUE GIFTS & INTERIORS, TOTTENHILL

ASK FOR DESIGN ADVICE Even the most skilled designers make mistakes. It can be diﬃcult to spot them when we’ve been muddling over the same room design for months – and sometimes all a room needs is a fresh set of eyes to spot the problems. Ask a friend for an honest opinion on colour choice, fabrics, or room arrangement. If you’d rather have some more expert advice, hire an interior designer for guidance – you don’t have to hire one for an entire design project, as there are plenty of designers who charge by the hour. Interior designers are full of clever design tips and tricks that can really transform your home. If you disagree with the second opinion (and you may well do), then get a third. Listening to advice doesn’t mean we have to take it – your home design is uniquely yours, and if you love it, then that’s really all that matters.

KLmagazine April 2015

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Interiors

HANGING ART You can literally turn any wall of your home into your own personal art gallery. Everyone should display some form of art in their home – whether it’s

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a rare oil painting or a cherished drawing from your children’s preschool days. The roadblock most people encounter is how to properly hang their artwork. The best way to ensure there are no mistakes (and no nasty holes to ﬁll) is to trace and cut out the outline of the artwork on paper. Then you can simply tape the paper cut-outs on to your walls, trying numerous placement options until you’ve reached the desired outcome. It’s vital to have fun with your arrangements, playing with diﬀerent sizes, contrasting colours and textures, and it’s always worth trying to avoid the number one mistake most people make – scale (see above).

PICTURE: MAB FURNITURE / AVAILABLE FROM UNIQUE GIFTS & INTERIORS, TOTTENHILL

ACCESSORIES AND COLLECTIONS We all have them – collections of our favourite things. Somehow it started with one little ceramic bird and now you have a collection of birds in various shapes, sizes, materials and colours that you’ve amassed over the years. What’s the proper way to display a collection such as this? Well, let’s start with the improper way, and the mistake most of us tend to make – scattering pieces of the collection throughout your home. One little bird may tweet from the mantel over the fireplace, while another somehow flew all the way over to perch on the coffee table. There’s another in an alcove in the hallway. No matter what the accessories are, it’s best and far more effective to display them in arrangements and groupings. There are some steadfast rules to arranging items into groups – welcome, for example, to the rule of three. So gather what you love into groupings and display them proudly and properly.

PUT YOUR FABRICS FIRST A common mistake most of us are guilty of when it comes to interior design is painting first. Put the brushes down and take a step back. First, you need to pick out the room’s fabrics and main textiles such as rugs and curtains. Why? Because it’s much easier to find fabrics we love and then pick out the paint to match. Think of it from the other side. It can be considerably harder to find a fabric we love that just happens to match the paint we’ve

KLmagazine April 2015

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Interiors

ADDING CHARACTER While it’s always fun and exciting to look through showrooms full of brand-new modern furnishings, you should resist the temptation to get carried away and buy everything at one time and in one place. Doing this results in a common interior design mistake – buying everything matchy-matchy, which results in a home that lacks any character. How do we add character? Slowly, and over time. It can take years to have your home fully complete and fully designed. Character is built into your interior design by adding that ‘odd’ chair you found in an antique shop or the amazing painting you bought on holiday. With this in mind, try a relaxing shopping trip on the weekend, taking it

slowly, and over time you’ll ﬁnd things you love and mean something to you. That’s what will build your home’s character.

PICTURE: MAB FURNITURE / AVAILABLE FROM UNIQUE GIFTS & INTERIORS, TOTTENHILL

already put on our walls. So, with budget and room size in mind, go on a shopping excursion. Look through as many samples of fabrics, rugs, pillows and cushions as you can. Find what you love, and then (once you’re happy with your design choices) pick a paint shade or combination of shades based on the chosen textiles. Now you’re ready to pick up the paint brush!

ADD A FOCAL POINT Every room needs a focal point – it oﬀers a place for the eye to rest and assigns a room with a function. It’s also worth noting that larger rooms can have more than one focal point. This is a very common mistake in interior design – forgetting to give each room a purpose or a point to focus on.

KLmagazine April 2015

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Interiors

Some rooms are simple – in a lounge the focal point usually ends up being the TV and the unit it’s placed on, while all the other main objects in the room (suites and chairs) are focused and pointing towards the TV. Other rooms such as dining rooms, sitting rooms and playrooms can be a bit more difficult, but it’s nothing a little planning can’t solve. Don’t simply scatter furnishings about the room – first find a focus or purpose for the room, and then place the furnishings around that focal point. For example, centre the room around a fireplace, gaming table, large painting, or even a simple coffee table that encourages guests to sit and converse. KEEPING THOSE KEEPSAKES We all have hand-me-down furniture. Some are genuinely prized possessions, while others simply weigh us down with a touch of distaste and guilty feelings. Do you have one of those ‘guilty’ objects in your home? It’s that piece that was given to you with the best of intentions – but you hate it, and wish you could hide it in the attic. Why make this decorating mistake? Why have something in your home that doesn’t bring you real joy and happiness? The best solution is to find a new purpose for all those items of furniture you’d rather be without. Paint it, pass it on to another relative, or give yourself

permission to sell it and buy something you really do love in its place. Set yourself free and make your home full of things that make you happy. SHOWING OFF YOUR PERSONALITY Your home should speak to who you are – it should be like a personal memoir of your trips, your loves, your life. There’s nothing worse than walking into someone’s home to be greeted by beige walls, brown furniture and one mass-produced print on the wall, pretending to be art. In a word, it’s boring. Where’s the life? Where’s the family in a family home? So, don’t be shy when it comes to your interior design. Bring in all the things you love, making your home a unique oasis that welcomes you at the

end of a hard day, and tells an intriguing story to your visitors. As we’ve seen, there are a lot of common mistakes that can be easily made when it comes to interior design. Luckily, there are also plenty of easy solutions to avoid or ﬁx these mistakes. Sometimes it’s as easy as getting rid of a piece of furniture you felt obligated to keep, or re-arranging the artwork on your walls, and sometimes all you need is the help and keen eye of a friend. If all else fails and you ﬁnd yourself too frustrated with all the decorating decisions and obstacles you face, then contact a professional interior designer. They’re extremely knowledgeable and experienced, and can help you achieve your dream home – without all the mistakes. It’s time to start loving your home!

KLmagazine April 2015

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KLmagazine April 2015

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KLmagazine April 2015

Local Life

ABOVE: Searles’ luxurious holiday homes at Redgate Court are built to residential standards and oﬀer truly stunning levels of quality

Searles and the luxury holiday experience... Redgate Court is perfect for people looking to enjoy all the benefits of owning a luxurious holiday home on the Norfolk coast – together with a whole world of leisure opportunities

t’s not too much of an exaggeration to say that for as long as people have been enjoying holidays in Hunstanton, Searles has been helping them make the most of the experience. The company has come a very long way from the day in 1910 when William and Alice Searle opened a boarding house in the town, oﬀering high standards of accommodation, excellent food, and memorable entertainment in the form of donkey rides along Hunstanton’s south beach. “It’s always been our vision to ensure that however you like to holiday, there’s something at Searles for you,” says Managing Director Paul Searle. “Although individual experiences will be

KLmagazine April 2015

very different because different people want different things from their holidays, we’ve always offered truly outstanding levels of customer service – and I think that’s why everyone mixes so well and happily together.” Already recognised as a five star holiday park by Visit England, Searles was recently voted Best Holiday Park in Norfolk for the EDP/Visit Norfolk Tourism Awards and is currently being judged by Visit England for the Best Park in the UK award. “These are tremendous accolades for the overall business and everyone who plays a part in it,” says Paul, “and they show just how clearly we understand what goes into making a great holiday

Local Life experience.” One of the most exciting developments at Searles in recent years has been the growth of Redgate Court, a luxurious owners-only area of nonresidential holiday homes on the edge of Searles Country Park. Offering fantastic views across the golf course towards Heacham Manor (which is also part of the Searles Leisure Group), Redgate Court puts all the facilities of the Country Park within easy reach – from the Fountain Restaurant and Bar to the fishing lake, bowls green and tennis courts, not to mention the highly-respected 9- and 18-hole golf courses and 10-bay heated driving range. Redgate Court even has its very own heated outdoor swimming pool. But it’s the holiday homes themselves that really put the development on a new level. Starting at £100,000 and finished to residential standards, they can be designed and built on a totally bespoke basis, and the 2-, 3- and 4-bedroom layouts offer everything from en-suite bathrooms to full central heating and double glazing. They’re fully furnished, the fitted kitchens feature integrated appliances, and the large open decked areas will help you make the most of the fabulous setting. And in addition to receiving a host of benefits such as discounted food and drink in The Fountain and free use of the 9-hole golf course (and preferential fees on the 18-hole course), Redgate Court owners also have full access to the world of leisure and entertainment opportunities available at Searles Leisure Resort. “That was always central to the thinking behind Redgate Court,” says Paul Searle. “It’s for people who want the level of luxury that comes from owning a high quality holiday home on the Norfolk coast with everything taken care of – but who still want all the excitement and fun of the resort experience when they choose. It’s not a case of different age ranges – it’s about different lifestyle choices.” As Hunstanton continues to grow into one of the country’s premier holiday destinations, Redgate Court puts Searles firmly at the forefront of holiday home ownership, offering everything that makes the best holidays so memorable – fantastic views, superb surroundings, and a real touch of luxury. To discover more about Redgate Court and the wider Searles experience, which offers something for all ages and all budgets, please call 01485 536026 or send an e-mail to Searles at holidayhome@searles.co.uk

information

Searles South Beach, Hunstanton Norfolk PE36 5BB Tel: 01485 536026 Web: www.searles.co.uk Web: www.searlesnorfolklodges.co.uk E-mail: holidayhome@searles.co.uk

KLmagazine April 2015

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KLmagazine April 2015

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KLmagazine April 2015

Explorer

Welcome to Norfolk’s original seaside resort... In addition to having one of the very best beaches in the UK, Hunstanton is also home to a wealth of attractions and leisure opportunities, as Emma Barnard discovers. Pictures by Ian Ward.

he beautiful coastal town now aﬀectionately known as ‘Sunny Hunny’ was built on the Wash as a Norfolk seaside resort during Victorian times and is now one of the busiest and most popular resorts in the country. The name Hunstanton is thought to have two possible origins – from the name of the local stone (Honeystone) or from the River Hunn, which runs from the old moated hall in Hunstanton Park which is the ancestral home of the Le Strange family. Indeed, it’s with this time-honoured family that you’ll ﬁnd the genesis of the resort itself. As we know and love it today, Hunstanton is perfect for a family holiday or just a fun day out in all seasons – and that’s exactly what KLmagazine April 2015

Henry Styleman Le Strange had in mind back in the 1800s. Henry developed the area south of the old village as a sea bathing resort – designing the resort personally with a triangular green sloping down to the sea. Hunstanton gained popularity as early as the 1860s, and in 1862 the Great Eastern Counties Railway introduced a direct line from King’s Lynn to Hunstanton. The resort was originally known as New Hunstanton, as it was adjacent to an existing village (today’s Old Hunstanton) – an extremely popular and gorgeous destination in its own right.

The village is quiet and serene, and with cliﬀtop walks past the privately-owned redundant lighthouse and ruins of St Edmunds Chapel (built in 1272) there are stunning and interesting sights along the way. The beach in Hunstanton is making waves in more ways than one, having recently been placed 16th in the UK’s top 25 beaches according to TripAdvisor’s 2015 Travellers Choice. During the summer months the beach is packed with families (though not dogs, as 101

Explorer

there’s a ban on the beach during this time). During winter you can see families, walkers and dog walkers still enjoying everything this fantastic beach has to offer. In fact, being named among the UK’s top beaches won’t have come as a surprise as the main beach has also regularly achieved both Quality Coast Award status and also the Blue Flag Award. The latter is given to beaches based on a variety of factors: water quality, provision of rescue equipment, beach cleanliness, disabled and prom access, well maintained toilets, car parks, information points and enforcement of the aforementioned summer dog ban. The attractions in the resort are wide and varied. There’s a popular fairground packed with traditional rides (and mouth-watering nougat!), an aquarium and seal sanctuary, leisure pool, theatre, lots of amusement arcades and a long and spacious promenade. Something Hunstanton certainly doesn’t lack is caravan parks with a range of amenities. Searles Holiday Park is a five star resort which opened in 1936, and has been offering coastal holidays ever since. Four generations of the Searles family have made the park into what it is today – a far cry from its origins as a small donkey field offering caravan pitches for a bag of potatoes!

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In contrast, they now offer camping, caravanning, touring, holiday homes and a wide range of entertainment. Just outside the resort you can see Wiley the Wash Monster (if he’s not out to sea!) an amphibious vehicle which takes tourists on sea tours. As you walk along the promenade you can book your sea tour and hop on board Wiley to view the grey seals which have colonised sand bars in the Wash and to the north of Norfolk. At one time Hunstanton boasted an iconic attraction in the form of a Victorian pleasure pier which included a pavilion and a miniature steam railway. The pier was unfortunately damaged by fires in 1930s and 50s before almost the entire structure was washed away by a storm in 1978. What remained extended just 15 feet from the amusement arcade built on the site of the original entrance – but that disappeared in 2002 when another fire destroyed the entire building as well as what remained of the pier. Today, you’ll find the site home to a busy and popular arcade and bowling alley. Hunstanton isn’t just about the beach and promenade, however. There are two successful and well attended schools in Hunstanton: Smithdon High School and Glebe House School, which is an independent co-educational preparatory school. The recreation

ground close to Smithdon School is where the ITA Hunstanton Lawn Tennis Tournament is held. Inaugurated in 1920, the tournament is considered to be Britain’s largest after Wimbledon. This coastal resort really is one of the jewels in the crown of our wonderful coastline – packed full of natural beauty, attractions, a variety of walks and a wide range of holiday accommodation to suit all of your needs, there’s no time like the present to taste everything Hunstanton has to oﬀer.

KLmagazine April 2015

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KLmagazine April 2015

PICTURES: RICHARD SHASHAMANE (opposite) / JMA PHOTOGRAPHY

Local Arts

ABOVE: One of the most exciting – and thought-provoking – bands in Norfolk, the Thinking Men comprises (from left to right) Ronnie Smith, Johnny Raspin, Sarah Taline Barsoumian, Matt Rowe, and Duncan Samwell

Why the Thinking Men are the next big thing... Combine great music with a touch of poetry and philosophy, add a healthy dose of theatrics and you’ve got the perfect recipe for a successful local band. Emma Barnard talks to Johnny Raspin.

he Thinking Men is a ﬁvepiece band from Norwich originally formed with three members back in 2010 through a mutual love of music, poetry and philosophy – Johnny Raspin and Ronnie Smith began writing together and Sarah Taline Barsoumian joined them on keyboards. In 2012 drummer Matt Rowe was welcomed to the band, and the latest member is Duncan Samwell on bass. Described as “a genuine rock ‘n’ roll band for our times” the Thinking Men won Future Radio’s ‘Next Big Thing’ in 2013 (an award previously received by

KLmagazine April 2015

no less than Framlingham’s own Ed Sheeran) and are regular performers at some of the best venues in the area – so what’s next for this exciting band? Emma Barnard caught up with lead singer Johnny Raspin to discover more. EB: When did you first decide you wanted to be musicians? JR: I could say it was when we ﬁrst started playing in bands – or when we discovered Nirvana at the most inﬂuential age of 12! Playing in bands is fun, Nirvana are cool, and music is what brings us the most joy in life. However, the moment when I thought it could

actually become a reality was when the people watching us made us feel like that. EB: What’s the Thinking Men story? JR: We formed in 2010 as a three piece, but after one of the worst shows we’ve ever played – I won’t go into details! – we quickly realised we desperately needed a drummer. After Matt joined, we soon realised that we desperately needed a bassist, so we got Duncan. And once we were ﬁnally a full band, it just went from strength to strength. EB: For newcomers to the band, how

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Local Arts

would you describe your music? JR: Imagine if Tom Waits, Nick Cave and Jim Morrison had a child in the form of a band! We like to think we’re catchy and melodic, full of footstomping riffs that are peppered with theatrics to keep you either scared or entertained. Hopefully, both! EB: Where do your creative influences come from? JR: The band was formed out of a love for poetry and philosophy, so a lot of lofty words and ideas have influenced us in a lyrical perspective. Musically, the big three influences are Tom Waits, The Doors, and Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds. EB: How big was the Next Big Thing? JR: Winning it was an awesome experience – from the bands we had the honour of playing with to the nerve-wracking atmosphere of the final. It was a lot of fun too. The fact we managed to win it boosted our morale as a band and gave us considerable confidence in our abilities. To have people tell you you’re good enough to do this for a living, that’s a nice feeling. EB: What’s the best gig you’ve ever played? JR: Probably when one of our most loyal fans had a birthday party for his daughter and invited us to play. That

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was a lot of fun. We’ve played loads of awesome shows, but one of the real stand-out ones has to be when we supported Kill It Kid. The room was buzzing! EB: What can we expect from a performance of the Thinking Men? JR: It’s very theatrical, and it’s dark in some places and light in others. You’ll either love it or hate it, but it’s guaranteed to provoke powerful emotions rather than just a feeling of indiﬀerence. That’s what we hope, anyway! EB: Is there anyone you’d like to work with in the future? JR: We take each day as it comes, and we’re open to any possibilities or opportunities that may arise. In short, whoever will have us! We’re very honoured to work with Jonny Cole from The Mill (he’s like a wizard) and we’ve been lucky enough to have Joe La Porta from Sterling Sound in New York master our tracks for us – that’s a great honour too. EB: What’s next for the band? JR: I guess the next logical step for us is to spread to diﬀerent areas. We’re currently pushing out of Norfolk and looking at the surrounding regions, but we’ll probably be focussing a lot of our attention on London. However, if you

want us, we’ll go anywhere. We’re not fussy in the slightest – and we love playing in foreign lands! EB: What’s 2015 got in store for you? JR: We wanted this year to be about festivals, and we’re delighted to be playing the Secret Garden Party, the Red Rooster and the VW White Noise, with some other festivals already in the pipeline. We’ll be looking to go back into the studio near the end of the year, because we’ve developed some lovely new treats we want to get down on tape. And we’ll carry on ﬁghting hard to saturate diﬀerent areas. Maybe we’ll do a tour – so keep an eye out, as we’ll probably be somewhere near you pretty soon.

For the latest news and details of forthcoming performances by the Thinking Men, visit the band’s website at www.thethinkingmen.com

KLmagazine April 2015

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Now you never have to miss a copy! Have KL magazine delivered to your door every month! KL magazine has always been enormously successful, and by popular demand we’re now introducing a subscription service – which means you won’t even have to leave your home, as your very own copy posted direct to your door! For £25, you can receive the next six issues of KL magazine, and £48 you can receive every issue for the next 12 months. Please note that we can only deliver to UK postal addresses. So, to make sure of your copy of KL magazine, please contact us on 01553 601201 – and thanks again for all your feedback!

To subscribe and for more details, please call 01553 601201 KLmagazine April 2015

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KLmagazine April 2015

The XC90 comes to Hylton Gott... t’s looking to be an exciting year for Hylton Gott (one of the UK’s first Volvo Car franchises) as the highly anticipated all-new XC90 gets set to arrive at the Downham Market dealership at the start of June. The new XC90 marks the beginning of a new chapter in Volvo’s history, capturing its future design direction and incorporating a range of its own new technologies. It’s easy to see why the car has got so many people talking about it – particularly as the XC90’s interior is the most luxurious yet designed for a Volvo. The most striking feature is a tablet-like touchscreen control console, which forms the heart of an all-new in-car control system. The system is virtually button free, a simplicity that opens up generous surfaces and has allowed for the creation of a modern, truly luxurious interior architecture. The new XC90 offers a range of twolitre, four-cylinder Drive-E powertrains, all of which provide an outstanding combination of performance and fuelefficiency – and the model will be bringing the highly-regarded 320hp T6 petrol engine to the UK for the first time. Meanwhile, the top of the range XC90 Twin Engine combines a supercharged and turbocharged petrol engine with an electric motor and offers an unrivalled combination of power and clean operation. Normal driving is conducted in the

KLmagazine April 2015

default hybrid mode, but at the push of a button the driver can switch to quiet and emission-free driving on pure electric power where the range will be around 40km – immediately reverting back to the combined capacity of the petrol engine and electric motor when needed. And if all that wasn’t impressive enough, the all-new XC90 offers the most comprehensive and technologically sophisticated safety package currently available as standard in the automotive industry. It includes two world-first safety technologies – a run-off road protection package and auto brake at intersection capability. Volvo launched the first generation XC90 twelve years ago, the same time that Dealer Principal Steve Tilburn purchased the Hylton Gott business – Steve actually took over the position of DP from Mr Hylton Gott on 1st December 2002, the very same day the first XC90s arrived at the dealership! Starting as a mechanical apprentice in 1978, Steve has been working at the dealership for 36 years, working his way through to the workshop and progressing to Sales Manager and then General Manager before being appointed Dealer Principal. “The new XC90 is one of the most significant cars Volvo has released in recent years and the wait has been well worthwhile,” says Steve. “Although the spacious and upmarket interior is central

to its appeal, it’s a genuinely relaxing car to drive and the brilliant safety features really are in a class of their own. The new XC90 oﬀers comfort for up to seven people, functionality for the driver and passengers, and is an exciting new take on the traditional Volvo values of solidity and conscientious design. We’re really looking forward to welcoming it to Hylton Gott – and I’m sure our customers will be as well!” It’s an exciting time for Steve and his team – and the ideal time to discover why the XC90 has made such an impression on the motoring world. For more details and information on the XC90 – or any other model in the Volvo range – and to be first in line for a test drive, contact Hylton Gott today.

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KLmagazine April 2015

PICTURES: BOB CATCHPOLE

Local Arts

ABOVE: Reliquary XI, a typically intriguing work by the acclaimed North Walsham based sculptor Bob Catchpole (opposite)

The wonderfully weird world of Bob Catchpole Thanks to the work of local sculptor Bob Catchpole, you may never look at your garden forks and spades in quite the same way again. But that’s the whole point, as Emma Barnard discovers

rom a young age, Bob Catchpole was naturally gifted at drawing and he’s been creating art since he was a small boy. His talent eventually grew into a love for sculpture, a ﬁeld that Bob’s now been exploring for some 50 years. But the kind of imagery the word ‘sculpture’ immediately brings to mind isn’t what comes out of Bob’s North Walsham studio, however. Bob himself puts it best. “It’s fundamentally surreal but ﬁrmly planted in the Norfolk landscape,” he says of his work. “In fact, it’s a metaphor for the landscape. It’s also about the

KLmagazine April 2015

relationship between the landscape and the churches which are so much a part of it.” For many years, Bob’s been using agricultural tools in his sculptural works, something which is a surreal and wonderful sight at the same time. After attending both Norwich School and Norwich Art School, he studied Fine Art at Newcastle University before going on to a post-graduate degree at the world-renowned Slade School of Fine Art in London. With such a strong background in academia, Bob was fully equipped to take up a career in teaching himself, and was the Head of Sculpture at

Windsor’s Eton College for 30 years. “Whilst continuing to make sculpture myself, I taught it at various places before retiring from teaching in 2005,” he says. “I thoroughly enjoyed teaching and found it stimulating and rewarding. I’ve always believed that to teach well one needs to gain the trust of the students and to learn from them – teaching art should be a two-way proposition, I think.” With such an open-minded approach, it’s no wonder Bob’s art is so dynamic. Or that he’s so hands-on. When he found himself in need of somewhere to keep his creative juices ﬂowing, he created his own space.

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PICTURES: BOB CATCHPOLE

Local Arts

ABOVE: “As I’m fascinated by man’s relationship with his environment, it’s rather inevitable that I ended up manipulating tools,” says sculptor Bob Catchpole. Below is his Fork of the Medusa XII, a typical example of his remarkable work.

“During the last few years of my teaching,” he says, “I became a real Bob the Builder and built myself a studio in the centre of North Walsham.” He’s been living and working there since 1985, and it’s the inspirational home of his humorous work drawing on the agricultural heritage of Norfolk. Although Bob doesn’t have a background in agriculture himself, his father was brought up on a farm along with ﬁve brothers – and was the only one of them not to work on the land, spending his working life at Jarrold in Norwich. Even though he doesn’t have a direct personal connection to agriculture, Bob’s family history and life in rural Norfolk has paved the way for his captivation with tools, farming and our relationship with the land which surrounds us. “The tools are fascinating because they’re evidence of our link to the land – the landscape we love was man-made with these

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tools,” he says. “As I’m fascinated by man’s relationship with his environment, it’s rather inevitable that I ended up manipulating tools!” It’s difficult to imagine where Bob’s unique work draws its artistic inspiration from, but he professes to being influenced by people as varied as David Smith, Kazimir Malevich and Pablo Picasso – and from the 17th century Italian sculptor Bernini to the American pop artist Jim Dine. Bob’s remarkable collection of sculptural work uses ‘ordinary’ tools such as forks, spades and axes and transforms the mundane world of the toolshed into a magical and enchanting creative environment – with wonderfully playful and intriguing titles such as ‘Catchysaurus’, ‘Sunnyside Scissors’ and ‘Fork of the Medusa.’ A browse through Bob’s website is a wonder to behold, with work of different shapes and sizes and a certain puzzlelike quality to keep the mind busy. In creating his work, Bob uses actual tools and locally-sourced

oak – and he always likes to retain the identities of the original object itself. Recent works have seen him explore themes of architecture, particularly related to churches in Norfolk which he says he loves. Another branch of his recent sculpture has seen Bob create a series of interlocking forms based around the idea of a daisy chain, but (as you would expect!) using tools as the base unit. If you were looking to get your hands on a piece of Bob’s work, you’ll be pleased to learn that he’s a regular local exhibitor – although works are also available via his website or even from his North Walsham studio. Even better, Bob is currently exhibiting (until 11th April) at the King’s Lynn Arts Centre. When asked what the future holds for Bob Catchpole and his amazing sculpture, the answer’s typically elegant and simple. “More sculpture!” he says. “I’ve spent my life doing it and I just wouldn’t know what to do if I had to give it up. I work seven days a week and I was even in the studio on Christmas Day. It’s my life. It’s what I was born to do.” And that’s the sign of a true artist.

For more details on Bob Catchpole and his fascinating work, visit his website at www.bobcatchpole.com

KLmagazine April 2015

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The Last Word

WildWestNorfolk Michael Middleton’s

have a long-time friend in King’s Lynn who is even more inclined towards a half-empty glass view of things than myself, hard as that may be to believe. There’s a good reason why it would be unfair to tell you his name – and that’s because he’s currently obsessed with the imminent end of the world. It seems that Brian (that’s not his real name, but I wouldn’t want his neighbours to start worrying unduly) recently read about something called (29075) 1950 DA. It seems that this mundanely-named object is an asteroid about a mile wide that’s currently making its merry way through space at some 33,800mph – that’s nine miles a second before you start reaching for your calculator. The reason it’s got so many people excited (well, at least Brian and the person who wrote the article he read) is that the object in question has the highest ever known probability of hitting the earth. Yes, it’s heading our way, and it seems there’s a good chance it will crash into the planet on March 16th 2880 with a force of around 45,000 megatonnes of TNT, wiping out the human race and causing all sorts of problems with the bus timetables and that weekend’s football ﬁxtures. Even more worryingly, scientists currently have no idea at all of how to stop it. Now, although it’s extremely unlikely I’ll need to bother too much about my plans for Easter 2880 (though I imagine Mrs Middleton has something already in mind), I was suﬃciently interested to borrow the article and read more about this impending apocalypse.

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The doomsday scenario is all true enough, but it has been somewhat blown out of proportion, if you’ll excuse the metaphor. You see, the ‘good chance’ of (29075) 1950 DA landing on Swaﬀham (or anywhere else in the world for that matter) is only 0.3% – which in my book means there’s an ever better chance (99.7% I think) that it won’t actually happen at all. So much for the end of the world then. But it seems that’s always been the case. The oldest known prediction of the end of the world is recorded on Assyrian tablets that are almost 5,000 years old. They make fascinating reading. “Our Earth is degenerate in these later days,” they say. “There are signs that the world is speedily coming to an end; bribery and corruption are common; children no longer obey their parents; every man wants to write a book and the end of the world is evidently approaching.” Sound familiar? The passage of 5,000 years hasn’t seen the total destruction of the planet at all – and it’s still a world full of aspiring authors and misbehaving children. The passage of time also seems to have tempered our reaction to predictions of this nature. Back in 999, people got into all sorts of panic about the forthcoming end of the world. They stopped ploughing the ﬁelds, they left their jobs, and they vacated their homes – only to be told that someone had miscalculated the date of Jesus’ birth and that the world was still

good for another 33 years. However, 1033 came and went without so much of a whimper – although the weather in spring was particularly and unusually harsh. Around 700 years later, the Swiss mathematician Jacob Bernoulli said that a comet seen in 1680 would shortly return and collide with the earth. It hasn’t been seen since. Oh, and spare a thought for the Jehovah’s Witnesses, who’ve predicted Armageddon around nine times – including 1914, 1925, 1941, 1975 and 1997. And they’re still waiting. Sorry, Brian, but I don’t think you’re going to ﬁnd many people getting all hot and bothered about (29075) 1950 DA just yet. Come March 16th 2880 I think we’ll still be surrounded by people hoping to have their ﬁrst novel published, we’ll still be plagued with badly-behaved children, we’ll still be waiting for the bus to Cromer, and we’ll still be watching repeats of Midsomer Murders on ITV3. Happy days.

KLmagazine April 2015

It’s now the Open Season at Kings Lynn Audi

What Car? Best convertible 2015. Another reason to raise the roof. With its striking silhouette and advanced features like Bluetooth and Audi Music Interface, the A3 Cabriolet is already one of our most popular open-top cars. And because it’s secured the What Car? Best convertible award for the second consecutive year, it’s now even more desirable. Call us to arrange your test drive in time for spring.

Kings Lynn Audi Hamburg Way, Kings Lynn PE30 2ND 0844 776 0541 kingslynn-audi.co.uk Part of the Marriott Motor Group

Official fuel consumption figures for the A3 Cabriolet range in mpg (l/100km) from: Urban 31.4 (9.0) – 60.1 (4.7), Extra Urban 47.1 (6.0) – 80.7 (3.5), Combined 39.8 (7.1) – 72.4 (3.9). CO2 emissions: 165 – 104g/km. Standard EU Test figures for comparative purposes and may not reflect real driving results.