ISSN 2044–7965
ISSUE 63 DECEMBER 2015 PRICELESS
magazine
WEST NORFOLK | NORTH NORFOLK | COASTAL
COVER IMAGE
meet the team... Oxburgh Hall by Ian Ward
MANAGING DIRECTOR Laura Murray MANAGING EDITOR Eric Secker DESIGN TEAM Amy Phillips Lisa Tonroe
PHOTOGRAPHY Ian Ward
SALES AND PROMOTION Daniel Thomas CONTRIBUTORS Emma Barnard Alex Dallas Michael Middleton
contact
18 Tuesday Market Place King’s Lynn PE30 1JW 01553 601201 info@klmagazine.co.uk www.klmagazine.co.uk KL magazine cannot accept responsibility for unsolicited submissions, manuscripts and photographs. While every care is taken, prices and details are subject to change and KL magazine takes no responsibility for omissions or errors. We reserve the right to publish and edit any letters. All rights reserved.
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t seems hardly possible that Christmas is here already, but the festive season always seems to bring out the best in Norfolk – thanks in no small part to its natural beauty, its awe-inspiring architectural heritage, and its wonderfully talented population. As we prepare to make the most of the forthcoming festivites, this month’s magazine gives us a timely insight into the work of some of the local people ensuring this really is the season to celebrate. People such as Jason Borthwick, for example, who’s organised the popular Deepdale Christmas Market at Burnham Deepdale for the last seven years. People such as Norwich Cathedral’s Master of Music Ashley Grote, who’s about to stage a fittingly magnificent programme of musical wonder. And people like the National Trust’s Edward Bartlett, who’s helping us understand what Christmas was like for the inhabitants of Oxburgh Hall some 100 years ago. Of course, Christmas is a time when we’re encouraged to spare a thought for others – whether they’re people who find the season particularly stressful and not-so merry, or the garden birds and pets that need a little bit of extra help over the winter months. It’s also a time for surprises – and it’s been a real eye-opener this month to see local people using the natural resources around them and taking them in new directions. Sally Brown for example, uses her much-loved (and happy) colonies of honey bees to produce a lovely range of skincare products, while Lucy Sheringham finds inspiration for her beautiful collections of silk scarves in the fields on her family’s farm at Necton. However you celebrate it, have a very Happy Christmas – and we’ll see you again next year! KL MAGAZINE KLmagazine December 2015
Contents
DECEMBER 2015
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90 102 KLmagazine December 2015
6-13 WHAT’S ON This month’s diary of forthcoming events
56-58 WHEN FASHION MEETS FARMING Catching up with Lucy Sheringham
8-10 CHRISTMAS AT OXBURGH HALL... The festive celebrations of 100 years ago
62-66 FASHION Festive styles from our local boutiques
14 KING’S LYNN CORN EXCHANGE West Norfolk’s favourite pantomime is back
70-72 A REAL CROP OF QUALITY Enjoy a taste of Sandringham Apple Juice
16-18 THE MAGIC OF CHRISTMAS MUSIC Behind the scenes at Norwich Cathedral
80-87 FOOD AND DRINK Reviews, recipes and recommendations
22-24 A LIFE ON THE STAGE... Catching up with performer Richard Meek
90-92 THE ART OF THE MART Celebrating a tradition of showmanship...
28-30 A CHURCH WITH A DIFFERENCE A look at the tin tabernacle at Babingley
94 SAMARITANS When Christmas is not such a merry time
34 THE BIG INTERVIEW Jason Borthwick, Deepdale Christmas Market
96-100 A BRIGHT FUTURE FOR WISBECH Big plans are building on a proud past
40 THEN & NOW The changing face of West Norfolk
102-104 ANNIE TEMPEST A career of cartoons and sculptures
42-44 GIVING NATURE A HELPING HAND How to help our garden birds over winter
110-112 A LOVE OF ART AND WILDLIFE The work of local artist Nicola Hart
47 YOU AND YOUR PETS With local vet Alex Dallas
122 MICHAEL MIDDLETON The strange science of Christmas...
50-52 TOTALLY NATURAL SKINCARE Sally Brown and The Happy Bee Company
Happy Christmas from KL magazine! 5
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| Tel: 01485 541514
KLmagazine December 2015
December
Thursday 10th
CHRISTMAS SINGING WORKSHOP WITH ‘SING YOUR HEART OUT’ King’s Lynn Library, London Road PE30 5EZ (2pm-2:45pm) Come along to King’s Lynn Library and join the ladies and gentlemen from ‘Sing Your Heart Out’ for some Christmassy songs. You can join in or just sit and enjoy listening. You don't even need to be a good singer, just come along and have some fun and get in the Christmas spirit! There will be mince pies too! For more information contact Kerry Murray on 01553 772568.
25 YEARS AGO: On December 1st 1990, construction workers broke through the last wall in the Channel Tunnel, linking Britain and France for the first time in thousands of years.
Sunday 6th
THE NORFOLK HOSPICE - LIGHT UP A LIFE King’s Lynn Minster, Saturday Market Place (3pm) The Norfolk Hospice would like to invite members of the surrounding local community to remember a special person or people this Christmas by dedicating a light on their Christmas tree which will be brightly lit in front of the Hospice during December. Anyone who wishes to make a dedication should call the Hospice fundraising team on 01485 601701 or pick up a leaflet from one of the Hospice shops. As part of your Light up a Life dedication, you will have the opportunity to attend a Light up a Life service during December (guests will be able to light a candle for their loved ones during these services). The names of your loved ones will also be entered into the Order of Service and the Light up a Life Book of Remembrance which will be available to view at all of the Light up a Life services. The services are open to everyone, not just people who have made a dedication. Services are also taking place on Monday 7th December at Sandringham Visitor Centre (5pm), Thursday 10th December at The Norfolk Hospice in Hillington (5.30pm) and Sunday 13th December at St Edmunds in Downham Market (3pm).
Saturday 5th to Sunday 13th WELLS CHRISTMAS TIDE FESTIVAL Wells-next-the-Sea NR23 1EX Wells Christmas Tide has been extended from its traditional threeday format into one that lasts more than a week this year! There will be an exciting selection of activities for festival goers ranging from a Christmas market featuring stalls selling food, drink and gifts and a whole host of entertainment and live music. You’ll also be able to glide into the seasonal spirit by donning your blades to try out a skating rink which will be sited between the two marquees on the opening weekend. Other attractions include cookery demonstrations, children’s film screenings, a pantomime, evening carols, prize bingo, a cocktail evening, a onesie night, brass bands, fire-eaters, stilt walkers and circus acts. There will also be the traditional arrival of Father Christmas by boat onto the Quay on December 12th, followed by a fireworks display over Wells Marshes. Other venues in the town are being earmarked for a whole host of related events designed to make Wells a ‘must visit’ destination in the run up to Christmas. For more information visit the website: www.wellschristmastide.org.uk.
KLmagazine December 2015
Saturday 26th CIRCUIT OF CLEY Cley Next the Sea, Norfolk NR25 7SA (10:30am-1:30pm) Looking to burn off some calories after your indulgent Christmas Day lunch? Then why not join the team at Norfolk Wildlife Trust Cley Marshes for a Boxing Day stroll around the NWT’s oldest and best known nature reserve, looking out for winter wildlife along the way. Mince pies are included! Booking is essential by calling the visitor’s centre on 01263 740008. Tickets are £3.50 for NWT members and £5 for non-members. 7
mainstream, arthouse & classic films
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B R O O K LY N
SUFFRAGETTE
THE HUNGER GAMES PT. 2 SICARIO
T H E A PA R T M E N T BL AC K MASS
live events
KENNETH BRANAGH’S THE WINTER’S TALE
3rd - 20th Dec (Thu-Sun) plus 21st, 22nd & 23rd Dec Nativity scenes with real animals Free entry to Nativity, Tea Room & Gift Shop Farm open as usual
G OYA : V I S I O N S O F T H E F L E S H & BLOOD OF MICE & MEN (NT LIVE) HAMLET (NT LIVE)
JANE EYRE (NT LIVE)
FLORENCE & THE UFFIZI GALLERY
coming soon in january... THE DANISH GIRL
SNOOPY & C HARLIE BROWN IN THE HEART OF THE SEA DAD’S ARMY
Films subject to change. View our website for up to date screening information.
To book tickets call: 01945 588808 or go online:
w ww.thel uxeci nema . co m
A truly magical Christmas experience 10am - 5pm No need to pre-book!
Alexandra Road, Wisbech, Cambridgeshire PE13 1HQ 12
KLmagazine December 2015
Coming soon...
Wednesday 13th January Saturday 16th January THE GARDEN IN WINTER Peckover House, North Brink, Wisbech PE13 1JR (12noon-4pm) If you love gardens make sure to take advantage of this lovely opportunity to enjoy the early season with a stroll around the beautiful gardens at Peckover House. The two-acre Victorian garden has hidden corners, paths and the occasional touch of the exotic. There will be warming soup and hot drinks available and there‘s a free conservation talk in the house at 2pm. Booking for the talk is advisable and normal garden admission prices apply. Visit the website for more details and to see the other dates available until 21st February. To book a place please call 01945 583463.
THE DEVELOPMENT OF NORWICH CASTLE KEEP Lynn Museum, Market Street (2.30pm-3.30pm) Since the conversion of Norwich Castle to a Museum in the late 1880s it has been a dream that one day a full restoration to its original appearance and structure would take place. Now Norfolk County Council and Norfolk Museum Service are embarking on a £1 million government investment project to restore the interior of Norwich Castle Keep. Join John Davies as he talks about the project, its progress and its future, for only £2 (including museum admission) and free for Friends and Museums Pass Holders. For more information call Lynn Museum on 01553 775001 or email: lynn.museum@norfolk.gov.uk
Sunday 24th January
Tuesday 26th January
THE GREAT WHITE SILENCE Guildhall Theatre, King’s Lynn Art Centre (2.30pm) Showing the captivating 1924 documentary by Herbert Ponting of footage recorded during the Terra Nova Expedition of 1910–1913 led by Captain Scott, featuring penguins, seals and the ship’s cat as well as the familiar faces of the explorers. The British Film Institute have beautifully restored this film and commissioned a haunting score from Simon Fisher Turner. Tickets are £5 (reduction with password for cinema club members) and available to book online at www.kingslynnarts.co.uk or by calling the Corn Exchange box office on 01553 764864.
KLmagazine December 2015
THE CLASSIC ROCK SHOW King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, Tuesday Market Place (7.30pm) The highly rated Classic Rock Show will grace the stage of the Corn Exchange this January with an amazing show set to thrill rock music fans from any age! Focussing their tour on a new batch of rock gems best known for their irresistible hooks, instantly recognisable songs that have earned a golden status in the history of classic rock music. A virtuoso band of the finest musicians on the planet will take you on a two and a half hour foot-stomping ride featuring the music of The Who, Led Zeppelin, ELO, Bruce Springsteen, ZZ Top, Van Halen, AC/DC, Lynyrd Skynyrd, The Eagles, Eric Clapton, Queen and much, much more! Often imitated but never equalled, the Classic Rock Show offers the rare opportunity to hear these timeless classics played to perfection and in all their glory! From the extraordinary opening sounds of Led Zeppelin’s ‘Whole Lotta Love’ to Queen’s powerhouse anthem ‘I Want It All’ via AC/DC’s ‘Highway To Hell’ and everything in between, this show will rock you to your core... Classic Rock doesn’t get any better than this! To book tickets visit the website www.kingslynncornexchange.co.uk or call the box office on 01553 764864.
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KLmagazine December 2015
PICTURES: IAN WARD
Local Life
ABOVE: This month, the medieval splendour of Oxburgh Hall is the magical setting for a look at how Christmas was celebrated in the past
Why Oxburgh Hall is the home of Christmas From cards and crackers to trees and turkeys, the 19th century gave us some of our favourite Christmas traditions. This month, Oxburgh Hall turns the festive clock back 100 years...
E
very year at Christmas, the wonderful 15th century moated manor of Oxburgh Hall has proved a stunning setting for local festivities. Fittingly for a building packed to its Tudor rafters with history, Oxburgh Hall likes to celebrate Christmas by offering visitors an authentic look at how the festival was celebrated in the past, and in 2015 is transporting us back a century – to the birth of many of our most treasured festive traditions. Of course, the building dates back much further than the 19th century. Built during the Wars of the Roses in 1482 by the Bedingfield family (who’ve lived there ever since) the medieval
KLmagazine December 2015
exterior of Oxburgh Hall hides a distinctly Victorian interior – the result of remodelling by the 6th Baronet, Sir Henry Paston-Bedingfield. The changes came at a time when less of the house was being used on a daily basis, and it’s that more intimate atmosphere that’s central to this year’s Christmas celebrations. “Compared to some of the more lavish displays we’ve had in the past, this one may be a little more subtle,” says Edward Bartlett from Oxburgh Hall’s Conservation Team. “But that’s the whole point – we’ve planned it and designed it to provide a window into what life was really like for the hall’s Victorian and Edwardian inhabitants.”
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PICTURES: IAN WARD
Local Life
UPSTAIRS, DOWNSTAIRS: From the humble surroundings of the servants’ hall to the sumptuous library (above), Oxburgh Hall is giving visitors the opportunity to see how Christmas was celebrated by all members of the household 100 years ago
As visitors wander through the downstairs rooms (there’s no access to the upstairs or Gatehouse rooms) they’ll find each decorated faithfully and accurately to reflect the Christmas celebrations of 100 years ago. The big Christmas tree in the Saloon dominates a room in which the servants enjoyed their festive ball and where their children were treated to parties. The Drawing Room has been dressed to reflect a traditional Edwardian family Christmas, and the Library is a treasure trove of information detailing the origins of festive traditions from the Christian to the pagan. Of course, one of the most important rooms at Christmas (regardless of what century you’re in) is the dining room, and this year Oxburgh Hall’s is all set for a splendid and delicious Christmas dinner. It’s in stark contrast to the Servant’s Hall, which would have seen far more modest celebrations, not least because of the huge amounts of work the staff had at this time of year. It’s nice to discover, however, that traditions dating back to pre-Christian times were still observed at Oxburgh Hall as the family served the staff their dinner. Turning the clock back 100 years doesn’t happen overnight, and planning Oxburgh Hall’s Christmas celebrations started almost exactly a year ago. “It does take a lot of time and hard work to pull together,” says Edward. “We actually order our trees early in the year – the huge Christmas tree in the courtyard was ordered back in 10
January!” While Edward’s team works its way through piles of literature and historic illustrations to ensure the building’s Christmas decorations are truly authentic, Oxburgh Hall’s dedicated and talented team of flower arrangers put together magnificent displays to grace the rooms, something they do throughout the year. “From the earliest times, greenery has always played a central role in Christmas celebrations,” says Edward, “and that’s reflected at Oxburgh Hall. Happily, most of the floral decoration is collected directly from the estate, which is a lovely local touch.” Even the florists (who started collecting things such as pine cones in early November) turn to 19th century illustrations to ensure their creations are as historically accurate as possible. “That can be a challenge, as Christmas seems to be reinvented each and every year,” says Edward. “It can be tricky to make it authentic, but we always aim to get as close to the historical truth as possible, and Oxburgh Hall has always been very successful at that. We’ll often turn to Mrs Beeton’s book of Household Management, which was published in 1861 and contains some great illustrations of a contemporary Christmas. It really helps us to get things close to the mark.” It’s an effort helped by the estate’s outdoors team who’ll carefully gather holly, ivy, laurels and bay leaves before passing them on to the house team –
who’ll coordinate these natural materials to create the perfect festive atmosphere. It’s said that the Victorians invented Christmas, which was hardly celebrated at all at the start of the 19th century. By the time the period was over, it was the biggest annual celebration in the country and the family-centred festival we recognise today. Visit Oxburgh Hall this month and it’s easy to see what all the fuss was about – a time of giving, a time of joy, a time of worship and a time of celebrating for everyone. Welcome to the festive season at Oxburgh Hall – it’s what Christmas is all about.
Oxburgh Hall at Christmas Oxborough, near Swaffham, Norfolk, PE33 9PS Telephone: 01366 328258 Website: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ oxburgh-hall You can enjoy Oxburgh Hall’s Christmas celebrations on the weekends of December 12th and 13th and December 19th and 20th from 11am-4pm. Visits to see Father Christmas in his grotto cost £5 (and include a gift), and are on a timed ticket basis, with the last tickets sold at 3.30pm. The whole family’s invited to Oxburgh Hall to enjoy the way Christmas was celebrated 100 years ago.
KLmagazine December 2015
LET YOUR CHRISTMAS SPARKLE Christmas gifts and homeware now available Free parking and admission*
Open 10am-5pm. NR21 0LN
www.pensthorpe.com Sorry no pets except assistance dogs *The Courtyard - Shop & CafĂŠ only
KLmagazine December 2015
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West Norfolk’s favourite family pantomime is back! The King’s Lynn Corn Exchange presents The Adventures of Robin Hood - Tickets selling fast!
K
ing’s Lynn Corn Exchange’s magical pantomime extravaganza this year is The Adventures of Robin Hood. It’s the Corn Exchange’s sixth pantomime and every year it gets bigger and better! This brand new adventure has all the ingredients for a classic pantomime, with stunning costumes, live music and the usual comedy mayhem. Journey with us into the enchanted world of Sherwood Forest as Robin Hood and his motley band of Merry Men clean up at the annual archery contest, wind up the wicked Sheriff of Nottingham, and battle to rescue Maid Marian from his evil clutches… all without laddering their tights! Running from Thursday 10 December until Sunday 3 January with 42 shows in total it really is the ‘must see’ show this Christmas. If you haven’t got tickets to be part of the magic yet there’s still time, but hurry as some performances are already sold out! 14
MEET THE CAST! SHAUN WILLIAMSON As The Sheriff of Nottingham We are thrilled that our star name this year is Shaun Williamson. A very good singer and top notch comedian, he will bring so much to the baddie part with his good sense of fun and tongue in cheek asides. Shaun is best known and loved for playing 'Barry Evans' in BBC’s EastEnders, in which he appeared for 9 years but he has also starred in The Bill, Holby City, Inspector Morse, London’s Burning, New Tricks, Waiting For God, Funland, Bedlam and Bremner Bird & Fortune. Plus with Ricky Gervais he starred in two series of Extras and Life’s Too Short. Shaun has recently been on a national tour of One Man Two Guvnors, Anything Goes and Love Me Tender.
IAN MARR (BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND!)
As Dame Doubletop Ian has co-written, directed and appeared in numerous Pantomimes around the UK, but is especially pleased to be returning to King’s Lynn for a sixth incredible year for yet another helping of festive frolics, this year he is playing Dame Doubletop. He is now a firm audience favourite having been with the Corn Exchange since the first pantomime back in 2010, incredibly he also directs the panto so is a very busy man! One of the highlights of any panto at the Corn Exchange is seeing Ian’s more and more outrageous array of sensational outfits. With so many costume changes he can lose about a stone in weight during the run!
The New Corn Exchange brochure is out now!
STEVEN KYNMAN As Will Scarlett
Some of the highlights include a week long run of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat starring X Factor winner Joe McElderry, fun for children with Peppa Pig’s Surprise and West End/ Broadway hit Tell Me On A Sunday Starring Jodie Prenger. Pick up a copy from the Corn Exchange or browse a copy on our website.
Steven is possibly best known as Robert the Robot in the Bafta award winning CBeebies’ series Justin's House and as the acerbic Mojo and others in the series Yonderland for Sky 1. He is also the voice of Fireman Sam and Naughty Norman, a number of Diesels and Steamies on Thomas The Tank Engine and Bud'D, Eddie and Ray on QPootle 5. He can also be heard on a number of Radio 4 comedies, but mostly as Henry, in The Castle.
Corn Exchange Gift Vouchers
MIMI EDWARDS As Robin Hood
A great idea for Chrsitmas!
Playing the title role of Robin Hood, Mimi is making her pantomime debut and is looking forward to playing a boy, in the true pantomime tradition! She trained at Mountview Academy of Theatre Arts and since graduating has appeared in many theatre productions and on television.
Why not grab some of our Corn Exchange Gift Vouchers and give someone you love the perfect night out? Available in any denomination and redeemable against any show. Simply perfect!
ALSO STARRING... Ray Griffiths as Much The Millers Son Phil Cole as Friar Tuck Thomas Renshaw as Little John Rebecca Gilhooley as Maid Marion Plus two teams of talented local dancers who auditioned for Jordan Productions back in September.
For more information or to book tickets for any of our shows you can call the Box Office on 01553 764864 or book online at: kingslynncornexchange.co.uk @klcornexchange
Join us for this magical adventure running from Thursday 10 December until Sunday 3 January. Various show times, see our website for full details. Tickets priced from just £13 are available from the Box Office on: 01553 764864 or online at www.kingslynncornexchange.co.uk Concessions, family tickets and group discounts are all available.
KLmagazine December 2015
@klcornexchange Alive Corn Exchange
Sponsored by J & K Glass and Glazing Ltd, in association with KLFM 96.7.
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KLmagazine December 2015
PICTURES: NORWICH CATHEDRAL / PAUL HURST
Local Life
ABOVE: Younger members of the choirs at Norwich Cathedral, upholding a tradition of musical worship that’s over 900 years old and is never more uplifting than during the Cathedral’s programme of Christmas concerts and services.
The magic of music at Norwich Cathedral... As the sounds of our best-loved Christmas carols sound around the county, KL magazine talks to Norwich Cathedral’s Master of Music Ashley Grote about a long tradition of musical excellence
N
othing encapsulates Christmas more than hearing traditional carols being sung in full voice by a magnificent choir in a spectacular setting. Fortunately, Norfolk is literally blessed with a host of opportunities to enjoy this festive practice, nowhere more so than at Norwich Cathedral, which continues a tradition of choral worship that stretches back almost unbroken to 1096. The Cathedral’s Master of Music, Ashley Grote, is ideally placed to explain more about the world of music at the cathedral what it takes to stage so
KLmagazine December 2015
many concerts and recitals at this busy and important time in the Christian calendar. “At Norwich Cathedral we have a traditional male choir, a girls’ choir, and a Cathedral Chamber Choir,” he says. “We have daily services as always, every day – right up to Christmas.” That’s plenty of vocal talent. The Cathedral has no less than 20 boy choristers, 24 girl choristers and 50 adult members of the Chamber Choir. Inevitably, December is an extremely busy time for the Cathedral, and Ashley and his choirs will have their hands full of concerts and services right up to –
and including – Christmas Day. “We have some truly wonderful musical highlights this year,” he says, “and they’ve already started with the Advent Procession and carol service at the end of last month.” Now, they’re all getting ready for their Christmas with Norwich Cathedral Choir concert, which will be a chance to hear a mixture of traditional carols and some more “fun, light-hearted and popular music,” as Ashley calls it. The schedule continues as we journey further into December with a special concert that’s sold out with a month to spare for two years in a row.
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Local Life
“On the 19th December we’ll be with Norwich Baroque performing Handel’s Messiah by Candlelight,” says Ashley. “The Cathedral will be absolutely packed as it’s a hugely popular event.” The choir doesn’t have much time to catch their breath as they then prepare for their Christmas Procession with Carols – which takes place on the following day and is repeated on Christmas Eve. “We’re busier than people may imagine in December,” says Ashley. “We don’t just do concerts in the Cathedral itself – we also travel to other locations to perform. We’ll be in the wonderful Banking Hall at Open Norwich on December 3rd for their Christmas Carols and Crafts Fair, and we’re also doing a private concert for Savills Estate Agents which will be great fun!” The male choristers also give up their time on Christmas Day to journey down to the city’s St Andrews Hall and sing songs for the homeless, who’ll be welcomed in for the day from 11am until 5pm and will be served a full Christmas lunch at 3.30pm.
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With just how much is going on it’s clear that Ashley has a lot of work on his hands with the Christmas festivities. “In my job I have responsibility for all the music at the Cathedral, so I have the final say on everything, including all the directing,” he says. “The day starts at 8am with the boys coming to rehearse before they go to school, so it’s always a long day.” Ashley is also responsible for administration, deciding on the music featured in the choral services and concerts, and putting together the service that takes place every day at 5.30pm! These daily choral services have a vast repertoire, ranging from masterpieces of the Renaissance through to premieres of music by contemporary composers. The choirboys have an intense schedule that sees them rehearsing every day both before and after school, while the girls are volunteers and attend rehearsals two days a week. “There’s a huge amount of work involved, and it really is a full-time
PICTURE: IAN WARD
PICTURE: NORWICH CATHEDRAL / PAUL HURST
operation,” says Ashley, who takes on the unenviable task of organising a group of schoolchildren every day. “I also have to make sure everyone’s in the right place at the right time, which can be an interesting challenge,” he says, “but I do have two brilliant organist colleagues helping me all the time.” As each year goes by you’d expect Ashley to feel some pressure to change the traditional carols for more modern options, but the truth is actually quite the opposite. “The traditional carols are still really popular at Christmas, and people really love to hear what they know,” he says. “There’s lots of new and wonderful Christmas music around as well, and people always welcome hearing new things – but this time of the year still has a very strong sense of the traditional.” To keep up this level of musical tradition for over 900 years is quite an achievement, and it’s no wonder the Cathedral is still so successful musically when you hear all of the hard work that goes in behind the scenes. Norwich Cathedral has a core of talented musicians dedicated to making sure the highest standard of music is provided for daily worship, and also for the fabulous Christmas concerts bringing joy to the ears of thousands during this very special time of year.
For further information and full details of the musical services and events at Norwich Cathedral, see the website at www.cathedral.org.uk
KLmagazine December 2015
Shop with us: in centre | at home | on the go
Come and play for longer this Christmas! We’re open ‘til 8pm throughout December (9pm on Thursdays). Except Sundays 11am - 5pm
For details visit intu.co.uk/Chapelfield KLmagazine December 2015
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Christmas all wrapped up at David Auker Jewellery...
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KLmagazine December 2015
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KLmagazine December 2015
PICTURES: SUPPLIED / DAVID FREEMAN (OPPOSITE)
Local Life
ABOVE: Richard Meek takes centre stage during a performance of The Rocky Horror Picture Show earlier this year, a musical show that the Norfolk-born actor describes as part of his life.
Gracing the stage from Wisbech to the West End Like many children, Richard Meek always wanted to be an actor and singer. Emma Barnard discovers how he succeeded in reaching his dreams – and audiences around the world
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aving your name in lights on the West End is a far cry from performing in summer shows at the Angles Theatre in Wisbech – but that’s all part of Richard Meek’s remarkable theatrical journey. Born and bred in Norfolk, Richard grew up in the village of Emneth on a street where most of his family were either born or still live, and is now based in London where his glittering career has gone from strength to strength. “I’m very lucky to be one of those people who always knew what they wanted to do,” says Richard. “There was no doubt I wanted to be an actor and
KLmagazine December 2015
singer, and I appreciate how lucky I am to have always had that certainty.” His first inspirations locally came from being taken to the pantomime at the Empire Theatre in Wisbech – “I particularly remember the Shippey family being very talented and prominent in those shows,” he remembers. From there, his passion for all things singing, acting and dancing grew into the versatile body of work he’s proud to have today. Most notable is Richard’s recent run on the West End in his beloved Rocky Horror Show, with which he’s had a long history. 23
PICTURE: DAVID FREEMAN
Local Life
ABOVE: Although Richard has appeared around the world in The Rocky Horror Picture Show over the last nine years, he still loves coming home to Norfolk – and his mum’s fridge!
“My heart lies with Rocky Horror,” he says. “I’ve performed in it all around the world, the West End and cinemas over the last nine years, and it’s truly a part of my life.” His first experience of the show was in 2007 when he joined the UK tour in the role of Brad Majors, and he also toured the production in Singapore and New Zealand in 2010 in the same role. But 2015 brought about Richard’s first ever West End part as he played Eddie and Dr Scott in The Rocky Horror Show’s special run, which included a gala performance screened live in cinemas across the UK and Europe and also across the pond on BBC America. “The most recent run of Rocky was magical,” says Richard. “We performed for two sell-out weeks in the Playhouse Theatre in London and what was wonderful was having the show’s creator Richard O’Brien with us as the narrator.” For fans of the show from all across the world this was the first time in 25 years they were able to see O’Brien on the London stage. “Within the two week run, we did a gala night in aid of Amnesty International,” says Richard. It was a performance that saw the role of narrator shared between Richard O’Brien, Stephen Fry, Anthony Head,
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Ade Edmonson, Emma Bunton and Mel Giedroyc – a jaw-dropping collection of talent! “It was streamed live (no pressure!) into 800 cinemas around the UK and Europe and was an absolute career highlight for me.” Richard’s career has been about more than just Rocky Horror though, and it all began with his musical theatre education right here in King’s Lynn. “I studied musical theatre at the College of West Anglia for five years before moving on to London,” says Richard. “With so many talented young performers around, I knew I had to use my time there to its fullest – I made sure while I had the opportunity to learn I would do all I could.” After moving on from college, Richard was accepted into The London School of Musical Theatre and graduated from there in 2004. Almost immediately, he was snapped up to join the cast of The Hot Mikado as the Mikado on the London Fringe in 2005 – and the following year played the role of Joseph in the UK Tour of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat (which included a performance at the Norwich Theatre Royal). Since then, performing has taken Richard to Germany where he learned to skate from scratch and star in the
25th anniversary of Starlight Express which he describes as “one of the hardest and most fulfilling experiences of my life.” It’s no exaggeration to say that Richard’s career has taken him all around the world – last year, in his own words, he “took a big leap” and worked as a vocalist on an ultimate luxury yacht for six months. “It was truly incredible to see the world in this way,” he says. There are so many performances and productions to mention – in the first part of this year, he toured the UK in ‘Spamalot’, the extremely popular Monty Python musical and right now he’s playing Prince Charming in a Pantomime production of Sleeping Beauty in New Brighton. Despite travelling the world with a job he always knew he wanted to do, Richard loves nothing more than the comforts of home. “My favourite thing to do is to come back to Norfolk,” he says. “I love getting home to mum’s full fridge and I love the fact that it’s quiet at night!” As ever, our coastline is also a firm favourite. “I always see all my local friends and have a couple of nights at our family caravan in Hunstanton whatever the weather. I just love Norfolk.”
KLmagazine December 2015
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KLmagazine December 2015
You choose the art and we handcraft the frame! From local artwork to bespoke hand-finished frames, it’s time to discover a whole world of creative inspiration at Framin’Art... n an area long recognised for a seemingly endless supply of creative talent, it’s good to know there’s a local business dedicated to supporting the local art world and making the most of your treasured pictures. Framin’Art (which has recently moved to larger premises on the high street in Downham Market) was established by Simon Prior four years ago, and it’s one of the very few places in the region offering an on-site bespoke framing service and a comprehensive range of hand-finished frames. “It’s an increasingly rare skill,” says Simon, “but it’s a vital one, as having a unique frame tailor-made to suit the image and its environment both enhances and protects the artwork it contains.” Framin’Art’s framing service is the perfect solution to non-standard sizes and specialist works such as tapestries and 3D objects, and it doesn’t just maximise the visual impact of the artwork.
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KLmagazine December 2015
“We actually frame to conservation standard,” says Simon, “and we avoid the use of acidic materials to help protect and preserve whatever we’re framing. We even offer specialist glass to minimise the impact of UV light and cut down on reflections.” Of course, beautiful frames need equally striking contents, and Framin’Art has recently introduced a collection of limited edition fine art prints by popular contemporary artists such as Sam Toft, Jenni Murphy and Debbie Boon. And if your tastes are more local, Framin’Art also provides commission-free exhibition space for homegrown artists – the gallery is currently showing over 30 pieces by the talented Stow Bardolph Art Group. It’s not just good news for art lovers; at Framin’Art, artists themselves will find a comprehensive and extensive range of art and craft supplies including everything from oils and acrylics to canvases and papers – and a choice of over 5,000 pencils!
If you’re interested in developing your own artistic skills (or learning new ones) Framin’Art also has an on-site classroom that offers a regular series of events hosted by established local artists and craftspeople – from watercolour and drawing classes to mosaic mirror making and felting workshops. “At Framin’Art we’re all truly passionate about art,” says Simon. “Whether you’re an established local artist looking for gallery space, a complete beginner wanting to take up painting, or you simply want a tailor made frame that does your precious artworks justice, we’re here to help.” If a picture’s worth a thousand words, Framin’Art makes every word count.
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KLmagazine December 2015
PICTURES: IAN WARD
Local Life
ABOVE: With its thatched roof and corrugated tin walls, the tabernacle of St. Felix at Babingley is one of the country’s most unique churches – the American pine lining the interior (opposite) was originally used as ballast in ships carrying emigrants across the Atlantic
One of Norfolk’s most remarkable churches Towards the end of 1894, a new church was built for the village of Babingley, but it didn’t take decades of work and teams of stonemasons. Indeed, it arrived flat-packed from Norwich...
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orfolk is home to hundreds of churches, all of them with long and fascinating histories, but one of the most unusual of them all must be the ‘tin tabernacle’ of St. Felix at Babingley, just outside Castle Rising. There are less than 60 tin tabernacles in the country and St Felix Chapel is one of only two in Norfolk – the other being St Mary’s Church in Melton Constable. As with all churches across the world at this time of year, the Babingley tin church (which is used by the British Orthodox Church) is busily getting
KLmagazine December 2015
ready for Christmas, but they’ve still got time to explain the origins of these remarkable places of worship. “It all began with the Industrial Revolution in Great Britain,” says Jackie Moralee from St Felix Chapel. “As towns and cities got bigger in the mid-19th century, there was a real revival of church building.” Indeed, during this period, the country’s population rocketed from nine million in 1801 to more than 41 million a century later, and the newlybuilt churches were planned to bring moral values to the newly-crowded industrial cities.
“It’s said that ‘tin tabernacles’ were quite revolutionary,” says Jackie, “as they balanced the country’s industrial ability and its social and spiritual needs in a very physical way.” Not only were the churches quickly and easily erected, they were also temporary and portable, and could actually be taken apart and reassembled if necessary. Most of them were only intended to be short-term solutions while funds were raised to build more permanent buildings – which is why so few of them have survived to this day. Which brings us back nicely to
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Local Life
ABOVE: Built in 1894 on the direction of the future King Edward VII, the ‘tin tabernacle’ of St. Felix is still a much-valued place of local worship and is used by members of the British Orthodox Church
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material, and was first mass produced in 1830. “The great advantage of corrugated iron at this time was that it was quite lightweight and could be supplied flat packed,” says Jackie. The great potential of temporary buildings was soon spotted by manufacturers and from 1870 onwards prefabricated churches became widely available. There were many different companies supplying the church market, but Boulton and Paul, along with a network of joinery companies supplied most of them. Since Boulton and Paul also built railway wagons, it’s likely the chapels they made would be supplied by rail. “The kit prices started at under £100 and the congregation would often undertake the construction of the chapel themselves,” says Jackie. Today, St Felix Chapel is used by the British Orthodox Church, a small independent Orthodox jurisdiction which originates from the Syrian Orthodox Church. The Church describes its mission to be for the people of the British Isles, regardless of their ethnic and cultural background. “We have people visit who are just walking by, and some who are just visiting the area,” explains Jackie. “Also as an Orthodox Church we do have
other Orthodox Christians, especially from Eastern European countries, come and worship with us.” The often described ‘forgotten story’ of tin tabernacle churches is being told every day in Babingley. One of two corrugated iron mission churches in the county and one of less than 60 in the whole country is right here on our doorstep. This fascinating, and unusual church is a wonder to behold and its rare thatched roof adds wonderful character. Having been in place at Babingley since 1895, St Felix Chapel is getting ready for yet another wonderful Christmas in the village. “We’ll be welcoming churchgoers with an Evening Service on Christmas Eve with a range of carols,” says Jackie. “The atmosphere is always lovely at this time of year in the chapel.”
PICTURES: IAN WARD
Babingley. “The story of Babingley’s tin tabernacle starts with St Felix,” says Jackie. “Born in AD 595, he was a French monk who was invited to Britain by the King of East Anglia, but while coming up the Babingley River, he fell out of his boat – and was supposedly rescued by a colony of local beavers!” Regardless of how St Felix arrived, (the charming legend of his rescue is depicted on Babingley’s village sign) the church built at the site of his landing fell into disrepair following the village’s relocation to its present site. “The current church was built on the direction of Edward, Prince of Wales, later King Edward VII, to replace the original church,” explains Jackie. The tin church was erected by the Norwich-based firm of Boulton and Paul in 1894-95 – and the corrugated building’s interior is lined with American pine originally used as ballast in returning emigration ships. Unusually, the Babingley tin tabernacle also features a thatched roof (a specific request of the Prince of Wales), and it also once had a bell tower which no longer exists. In the 19th century, when the erection of tin tabernacles was becoming commonplace, corrugated iron was a very modern building
KLmagazine December 2015
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KLmagazine December 2015
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A new look and a new era for local motorists... Duff Morgan celebrates the latest chapter in a 100-year history with a new-look showroom and the arrival of the SEAT range
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ou can never accuse Duff Morgan of standing still. With a proud and successful motoring heritage stretching back to 1909, the family-run company has grown to become one of East Anglia’s premier Citroën dealerships. They’re actually one of the top three Citroën dealers for customer satisfaction in the whole of the UK, and the King’s Lynn centre received the national Dealership of Year award only a year after opening five years ago. “It’s been a huge success from day one,” says Sales Manager Martin Seal. “As far as Citroën is concerned we soon reached the point where we simply couldn’t expand any further – so we decided to widen our offering to local motorists and provide them with more choice.” That choice has been achieved by Duff Morgan being awarded the local SEAT franchise, and sees the company bringing the innovative brand to King’s Lynn for the first time in over a decade. “The current Citroën and SEAT ranges are very complementary in terms of the
KLmagazine December 2015
driving options they offer,” says Martin. "Together they can meet the needs of virtually everyone – from sporty types to business users and people looking for a quality family car.” The arrival of SEAT (a marque characterised by its combination of German technology with Spanish flair) coincides with the opening of Duff Morgan’s new-look King’s Lynn showroom, which is now bigger, brighter and better than ever – with an expanded Business Centre, a larger range of new and used vehicles, improved sales and service facilities, and a host of refinements. “We’re justifiably proud of our new showroom, and it will really benefit all our customers, both new and existing,” says Martin. “At Duff Morgan we have a great tradition behind us, and it’s very exciting to be moving forward in new and exciting directions.” With a full range of demonstrator models available now, there’s never been a better time to book a test drive with Duff Morgan.
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The Big Interview he annual Deepdale Christmas Market comes to Dalegate Market in Burnham Deepdale for its 7th year on Friday the 4th December for three days of festivities. Growing in popularity over the years, the market will feature over 100 stalls this year, and it’s an event that’s really put the Norfolk village on the county’s Christmas map. KL magazine catches up with the market’s inspirational organiser Jason Borthwick to discover just what it takes to put on such a popular event…
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KL MAGAZINE: Could you tell us a little about your background? JASON BORTHWICK: I returned to Norfolk in 1999 after working overseas for the United Nations in Namibia and other backpacking jobs. I then worked for Virgin Direct in Norwich for a couple of years while I tried to work out what I wanted to do with my life in the long term. Ideas began to formulate with regards to the family farm in Burnham Deepdale, and when I moved from Virgin in 2000, my father and I began the diversification of the farm. Firstly we created a backpacker’s hostel and a year-round campsite, then we added glamping and the shops and café of Dalegate Market. The Christmas Market started seven years ago, and it’s been a great success every year since then. KL MAGAZINE: What does your role with the Deepdale Christmas Market actually entail?
Jason Borthwick Organiser, Deepdale Christmas Market 34
JASON BORTHWICK: There are only three of us who organise the Christmas Market – our PA Estelle, my father Alister, and myself. Estelle and I essentially spend a whole year finding and choosing the stalls and entertainment, and then putting together the huge jigsaw that becomes the Market. Once that’s done, my job is to promote the event, which is one of those jobs where you’re never quite sure you’ve ever done enough! KL MAGAZINE: What can we expect from the Deepdale Christmas Market in 2015? JASON BORTHWICK: This year’s market should be a wonderful start to the festive season. We always try to create a friendly market, hopefully with
KLmagazine December 2015
lots of smiling stall holders, plenty of local produce, and crowds of happy visitors. KL MAGAZINE: How long does it take to organise the market? JASON BORTHWICK: The planning for the next year actually begins just before this year’s event even begins! We need to have the dates for 2016 already as that’s one of the most-asked questions by stall holders and visitors. The application process for stalls opens in January and the first round of choices takes place in February. From then on it’s all about completing the jigsaw and putting plans in place for the coming year. KL MAGAZINE: What’s the most rewarding part of your job? JASON BORTHWICK: Without a doubt it’s the lovely feedback we get every year from stall holders and visitors – that’s what makes the whole thing worthwhile for us. KL MAGAZINE: What do you consider to have been your greatest achievement? JASON BORTHWICK: To put a tiny village like Burnham Deepdale on the map is a huge achievement. We were orginally told by the ‘professionals’ that they couldn’t see Dalegate Market working – but they couldn’t have been more wrong or less imaginative. With all the shops and café working together, there really isn’t anything that we can’t do. KLmagazine December 2015
KL MAGAZINE: What have you learned from your work?
know you’ve already made your decision.
JASON BORTHWICK: To always remember the happy people you work with, and try not to dwell on the few grumpy ones.
KL MAGAZINE: What was the last book you read?
KL MAGAZINE: What do you like best about Norfolk? JASON BORTHWICK: There’s nothing else like the space and the big skies – and I like the county’s real belief that nothing is impossible given a little effort. KL MAGAZINE: In your free time, how do you like to relax? JASON BORTHWICK: I love family time, walking, watching films and enjoying arts of all kinds. I’m definitely a bit of a foodie too, which is superb in Norfolk with such a fantastic choice of local produce and such a great selection of places to eat it in. KL MAGAZINE: Who’s your biggest inspiration? JASON BORTHWICK: I’d have to say my father – for his work ethic, his passion and his creativity. KL MAGAZINE: What’s the best piece of advice you've ever been given? JASON BORTHWICK: It was from my old boss Malcolm at Virgin Direct. He said that when making a decision, you should flip a coin. If you then say to yourself “ok, best of three” then you
JASON BORTHWICK: It was called Black Swan Green by David Mitchell. It’s the story of an adolescent boy growing up in the early 1980s in Worcestershire, with his own experiences set against the backdrop of the Falklands War. It took me a long time to get into it, but it was well worth the effort. It’s a great book. KL MAGAZINE: Tell us something about yourself that would surprise people... JASON BORTHWICK: I’ve climbed Mount Kenya dressed as a Rhino!
DEEPDALE CHRISTMAS MARKET 2015 This year’s Deepdale Christmas Market, featuring 100s of stalls packed with gifts, decorations, and local food and drink takes place at Dalegate Market in Burnham Deepdale from Friday 4th to Sunday 6th December. The market will be open from 2pm-8pm on Friday 4th, and from 10am-4pm on Saturday 5th and Sunday 6th. For more details and information, visit the website at www.dalegatemarket.co.uk
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KLmagazine December 2015
If you’ve got a way with words, here’s a few of them you’ll find very interesting... KL magazine is looking for a Feature Writer to join the team As KL magazine continues to grow and go from strength to strength, we’re currently looking for someone with a true talent for writing and a few spare days a month who’d like to join the team and help us deliver our popular monthly mix of entertaining, informative and engaging articles. You don’t need to be a trained journalist or a professional wordsmith – we’re simply looking for someone with a love of the local area, the eye for a good story, the enthusiasm to bring it to life – and the ability to write clearly and accurately in a stimulating and interesting way. The role is entirely flexible, and will probably entail a commitment of between 3-8 days a month. This is a great chance to work on a hugely popular local magazine with a close-knit, friendly and creative team of likeminded people. If you’re interested in exploring this opportunity further, please apply by e-mailing Managing Director Laura Murray at laura@klmagazine.co.uk, enclosing (if possible) some examples of your work.
KL magazine, Suite 1, 18 Tuesday Market Place, King’s Lynn PE30 1JW Tel: 01553 601201 Web: www.klmagazine.co.uk KLmagazine December 2015
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KLmagazine December 2015
How to heat your home for less than £10 a month! Enjoy the benefits of air source heating with 4 Way Refrigeration Ltd – from increased energy efficiencies to lower fuel and running costs he advantages of air source heating are well understood – but the real advantages of the system can only be truly appreciated by talking to people who’ve lived with it for some time. People like Gerry Golding of Blackborough End, for example. When he first started developing a derelict barn in May 2013, Gerry already knew he was going to rely on new technology to fulfill his new home’s energy needs. “There’s no gas in the area, and I didn’t want to be at the mercy of rising oil prices,” he says. “I did my research and came to the conclusion that air source heating was probably the most efficient route for us to take.” Wanting a local company with a proven track record and high levels of
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professional expertise, Gerry duly contacted Steve Simpson of 4 Way Refrigeration Ltd in King’s Lynn. “The project really was in its infancy when we first visited the site,” says Steve, “but in many ways that’s the best place for us to start. It means we can design a system that makes maximum use of the technology’s potential, suits the property perfectly, and causes the minimum amount of disruption.” After a careful look at the architectural plans and Gerry’s ideas for his new home, Steve recommended underfloor heating downstairs and radiators upstairs, with dedicated air source heat pumps powering each – both connected to (and supplied by) a solar PV panel array on top of the riding school adjoining the property.
Refrigeration Ltd Electrical Ltd Energy Ltd
The result is an almost totally selfsufficient system that has provided Gerry and his wife with virtually all their energy requirements for the last two years – from cooking and lighting to heating and hot water. “It’s worked perfectly ever since we moved in and we couldn’t be more pleased with it,” he says. “It’s very easy to control, it’s extremely reliable, and our total fuel bill has only ever been between £5-£7 a month!” No wonder air source heating from 4 Way Refrigeration Ltd is becoming the preferred choice for local builders, and why more and more people are looking to it as the most advanced, efficient and cost-effective way to heat their home. Great solutions for grand designs! Unit 25, Bergen Way North Lynn Industrial Estate King’s Lynn, Norfolk PE30 2JG t: 01553 767878 w: www.4wayref.co.uk e: sales@4wayref.co.uk
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KLmagazine December 2015
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History
1911
West Norfolk: Then and Now
2015
A SNOWY CHRISTMAS IN KING’S LYNN Many thanks to Mr. H Clarke of Downham Market for sending us the picture at the top of the page, which he says was taken in December 1911 – although he’s not completely sure of the date. It was obviously taken at a time when scarves and gloves were at the top of everyone’s Christmas
shopping lists! If you can date the original image more accurately, please let us know! And remember to wrap up warm as you enjoy all the forthcoming festivities! You can enjoy thousands of images of Norfolk’s history on the website at www.picture.norfolk.gov.uk or by visiting the Norfolk Heritage Centre at
the Millennium Library, The Forum, Norwich (or your local studies library). We’ll be taking another look back in time at the local area next month. IN ASSOCIATION WITH
Enjoy thousands of images of Norfolk’s unique history at www.picture.norfolk.gov.uk 40
KLmagazine December 2015
“We wanted a professional, first class service and that’s exactly what we received – from the initial stages to the final installation. Both the quality and the design of the conservatory is absolutely superb and we love it. It’s everything we were looking for!” Mr and Mrs Bingham, Thetford
Mr and Mrs Walker, Moulton
With ECOnomy Windows, you always have room to celebrate! t’s always difficult to find room for all those extra guests at Christmas, but although it’s too late to celebrate in a new conservatory this year, the good news is that the sooner you contact ECOnomy Windows the sooner you can start enjoying the year-round benefits it can bring to your home. A conservatory really can transform the way in which you use and enjoy your home, and ECOnomy Windows offers a reliable and professional local service with some of the most innovative products on the market – together with over 25 years’ experience in creating beautiful designs. At ECOnomy Windows, each and every conservatory is managed on a totally individual basis. Every project is
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carefully managed and manufactured Cocksedge of March. to meet specific requirements and “I now spend all my time relaxing in unique customer expectations. They do my new conservatory,” she says. “I’m have one thing in common, however: absolutely over the moon with it. All ECOnomy Windows staff were very the difference they’ve made to people’s courteous, helpful and polite lives. Take Mr and Mrs Mr and Mrs Shippey from start to finish, and I have Shippey of Upwell, for Upwell to say a very special thank you example. to the fitting team for their “ECOnomy Windows attention to detail. I really can’t did a marvellous job,” fault anything – the products they say. “We spend so are truly first class.” much time in our new These are just some of the conservatory because thousands of satisfied local it’s a real joy to be in. customers now enjoying more It’s exactly what we room to celebrate – all year wanted and we wish round – thanks to the superb we’d done it sooner!” quality and outstanding service Those are sentiments of ECOnomy Windows. equally shared by Mrs
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PICTURE: DAVID COLE 00
KLmagazine December 2015
PICTURE: RICHARD CAMPEY / ONE STOP NATURE SHOP
Local Nature
ABOVE: Singing all year round, the robin is the UK’s favourite bird – and as Christmas approaches, it’s one of the country’s most iconic
Giving nature a helping hand through the winter Everyone knows that our garden birds need help over the winter, but it’s important to feed them correctly – as Richard Campey of the One Stop Nature Shop in Burnham Deepdale explains...
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utumn is well and truly here now. The nights are drawing in, the mornings are decidedly chilly, and the leaves are falling. It’s unpleasant enough for us, but spare a thought for our garden birds over the coming months. You only have to keep your ears open to know this is a time of reduced activity for birds. With the exception of the robin, which sings to defend its territory throughout the year, the garden birds that sang so loudly in the spring and summer have now fallen silent. In addition, you may have noticed visitor numbers at the feeders in your garden have dropped
KLmagazine December 2015
significantly compared to other times of the year. This year’s unusually mild autumn has helped provide a plentiful supply of natural foods such as seeds and berries, meaning birds have needed to visit feeders less often. However, it’s important we continue to feed the birds as it provides them with a valuable source of extra food should they need it – and they’ll know your garden is a source of food when the hard times of winter arrive. Once their natural foods become scarce, they’ll soon return to your garden. If you don’t put any food out during autumn and wait until winter, it could be too late. The birds won’t know to
associate your garden with food and, in the lean months of winter, many species simply can’t afford to waste precious energy exploring. So as the birds are visiting your garden perhaps it’s time to look at your feeders and ensure they’re clean – and that you have enough to draw in a variety of different species. Britain is lucky enough to have a wide range of different birds frequenting its gardens and other open spaces, but among those people most seem to enjoy seeing are the finches – Chaffinch, Goldfinch and (if you’re lucky) Siskin and Lesser Redpoll. It’s been suggested finch numbers are down (partly due to a disease which
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PICTURES: RICHARD CAMPEY / ONE STOP NATURE SHOP
Local Nature
Attracting the crowd pleaser... njoying the sight of a woodpecker in your garden (and the distinctive sound they make) is a rare treat indeed, but there are ways of boosting your chances of spotting them and ensuring they keep coming back all year round. The Great Spotted Woodpecker and the much-rarer Lesser Spotted Woodpecker both feed on a diet of grubs and insects (leaving a dead tree standing is a sure way of proving a ready supply), but they also love energy-rich specialist products such as Peanut Cake Squares. These need to be placed in a cake feeder the birds can cling to. Because of their retiring nature, (woodpeckers really are quite shy) you may get the best results if you position their feeders away from those frequented by other garden birds. And if you’ve ever worried that all that tree-pecking causes sore heads, don’t worry – woodpeckers have reinforced skulls that are structured to spread the impact force, and their brains are tightly cushioned and protected. They don’t get headaches!
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ABOVE: Some of the garden birds needing your help over the coming months are the siskin (top left), goldfinch (top right) and great tit (below)
prevents the birds from feeding properly) and as seed eaters they can be quite vulnerable to food shortages in their natural environment. This doesn’t have to mean shortages due to poor weather though – it can be caused by anything from competition for a particular foodstuff to mowing of fields and verges that depletes a particular crop of seeds. This is why supplementary feeding can be so important – but it’s important to get it right. At the One Stop Nature Shop, we’ve always recommended using accredited sources such as CJ Wildlife. They’re Europe’s largest wild bird food supplier, and have spent many years researching and producing high quality foods for garden birds. These are specially developed foods that have been created to meet the nutritional requirements of birds and keep them in good health. They’re important because many of the foods people are tempted to leave for the birds can actually do them more harm than good. Bread (especially white bread) fills birds up without providing them with much nutrition, salty foods can dehydrate them, and fats (such a vegetable, chicken or turkey fats) can transfer to the birds’ feathers, preventing them from being able to preen or fly. Milk can cause severe stomach
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upsets, dessicated coconut can swell up once eaten and cause additional problems, while you should avoid ‘old’ food at all costs. Stale food can encourage salmonella, while mouldy food can cause birds to have respiratory problems. Equally important is the provision of a supply of fresh, clean water for the birds to drink. Try to provide a bath or or hanging dish that has sloping sides and a rough surface to grip, and place it at least two metres from any cover to prevent predation. Once winter really sets in, you can keep the birds visiting you by ensuring the surface is free of ice. It’s often overlooked, but it’s vital to keep on top of hygiene when you have bird feeders in order to prevent germs breeding. Firstly, regularly clean and disinfect your feeding stations, using bottle brushes to get into the corners – and take time to ensure any residues of soap or detergent are washed away afterwards. Secondly, refill and refresh the birds’ drinking water daily – and remember to dry it after emptying the dish, as this will also help kill any bacteria. By following these simple steps, you can give your garden birds a real lifeline that will see them safely through the winter – and see them revisiting you throughout the year ahead.
The One Stop Nature Shop in Burnham Deepdale’s Dalegate Market offers a wide variety of bird food and feeders to suit all gardens, and Richard and his team are always happy to provide expert help and advice. For more information, call 01485 211223 or visit the website at visit www.onestopnature.co.uk.
KLmagazine December 2015
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KLmagazine December 2015
Pets
AnimalMatters Our monthly look at the issues concerning you and your pets with Alex Dallas of the London Road Veterinary Centre...
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would like to wish all of you and all your pets a very happy Christmas. I’m sure you are all looking forward to spending time at home with your family and pets. We are certainly all looking forward to a well earned celebration, but rest assured, we will still be here for you if you need us. Just call us, we are always there to help.
Winter Wellness t’s predicted to be a particularly cold winter this year and this can provide us and our pets with different challenges. Our dogs will still need their daily exercise but dark wintery evenings make it hard for both us and them to be seen by drivers. Make sure you have a reflective strip on your coat and invest in a reflective collar for your dog and a collar light to attach to it. It’s also important at this time of year to towel dry your dog’s feet, legs and belly after a walk as they can pick up de-icers, antifreeze or other chemicals that could be toxic. Whilst drying them off check their paws for signs of cold weather injury such as cracked pads. Our cats are also out and about in darker conditions whilst there is still a lot of traffic on the roads. If you’re unable to get them indoors before dark choose a reflective collar to give them extra visibility to motorists. As I’m sure many people are already aware antifreeze is very toxic to cats, who are
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attracted to its sweet taste, ensure it is kept well out of their reach. If your cat goes outside to toilet he may start to ‘hold it in’ if he doesn’t want go out in the cold. Make sure there is always a clean litter tray available and encourage him to use it. This could save you a trip to the vet in the long run! Urine retention in cats increases the risk of blockages, particularly in male cats and urine tract infections which are more common in female cats, both are problems we commonly see. Cats that have access outside should also be provided with shelter, such as access to a shed or a covered box. At this time of year snow and ice can hide recognisable scents that help your pets find their way home so make sure your pets are microchipped and your details are up to date on the national database – don’t forget that by April 6th 2016 all dogs must be microchipped. Small furry pets such as rabbits and guinea pigs enjoy spring and summer
outdoors but as the weather gets colder they need extra care as they may be exposed to the worst of the winter weather. Where possible relocate them to a warmer part of the garden or into the garage or house and provide them with plenty of extra bedding. Make sure water bowls and bottles don’t freeze over and in windy conditions place a cover over the hutch to protect them from the worst of the wind. With a bit of forethought and planning winter with our pets can be very enjoyable – after all what’s better than snoozing in front of the fire with your pets curled up on your lap!
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Why winter is the best time for planting trees Call on the expert services of Heritage Tree Specialists now – it’s much better for the plants and it’s a lot better for your pocket!
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he depths of winter may seem like an odd time to be planting young trees and hedges, but it’s actually the best time of the year to think about creating a hedgerow, protecting your property’s boundary or shielding your garden. “Trees are actually dormant from now until the end of March, so moving them now is actually better for them,” says Dan Ashton of Heritage Tree Specialists in King’s Lynn. “And since bare root trees are only available over the winter, planting now can be much cheaper than it is at any other time of the year.” Together with fellow director James Hoddy and a fully-trained and highlyexperienced team, Dan sources both indigenous and non-native trees and hedgerow plants. Whether you want to replace damaged trees or create a wildlife-friendly screen, there’s no
KLmagazine December 2015
better time to call on their services and over 25 years’ experience in professional tree care. Heritage Tree Specialists will visit your home and select the right tree or hedgerow for the property – based on local soil conditions, the ultimate size of the plants, their location, their colours, and the future role you expect them to play in the garden. “On the coast you may want them to act as a windbreak to protect your garden, and on a sloping property they’re a natural way of stabilising the soil,” says Dan. “They can even form an effective noise barrier if you live near a main road.” And once planted, Dan and his team will ensure your vulnerable young trees and hedges are fully protected from natural predators such as rabbits, deer and voles – although Heritage Tree Specialists can also supply more mature
plants if required. “We generally recommend smaller trees and hedges for winter plantings,” says Dan, “but for some landscaping projects and for people who want immediate impact, we can plant trees up to 12ft high.” To start your home’s greener future now, contact Heritage Tree Specialists today for more details and information, free written quotations and a professional service you can trust.
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KLmagazine December 2015
PICTURES: LUCY KAYNE
Local Life
ABOVE: The Happy Bee Company’s range of skincare products contains many natural ingredients – but the most important of them comes courtesy of the hardworking bees of Sally Brown (opposite) who founded the company three years ago.
Natural skincare: thanks to Sally’s happy bees Honey and beeswax have been used in beauty products for centuries – but far from exploiting the insects, Sally Brown has built a partnership with them, creating The Happy Bee Company
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t’s quite the leap from wanting to learn French to building a successful natural skincare company from scratch, but it’s a leap Sally Brown took four years ago. Starting with just two bee hives, Sally found herself in the middle of the recession with no job, a cake of beeswax and three jars of honey to work with. From there, the ethical, beefriendly skincare business The Happy Bee Company has grown into a literal hive of activity and excitement. Whilst living in Belgium, Sally decided she wanted to learn French and was faced with a choice of spending what she describes as “an absolute fortune” on language classes or paying €15 for a
KLmagazine December 2015
beekeeping course – that was taught entirely in French. Bravely taking up the beekeeping class, Sally sat at the back of the room, listened, learned and absolutely fell in love with the subject – although she admits to being attracted to beekeeping for another reason entirely. “I saw a Special K advert with a female beekeeper on a farm,” she remembers, “and she was flirting with a hunky farmer. I thought ‘yes, this is definitely for me!’” Although Sally discovered (after returning to England and settling in Dereham) the reality isn’t quite as glamorous as the advert,
she’s still extremely proud and enthusiastic of what she’s managed to achieve alongside her beloved bees. “It all started with two hives, a cake of beeswax and three jars of honey,” she says. “I thought I could make some candles and sell the jars, but I figured there must be a better way of utilising the product.” What Sally discovered was that she only needed a tiny amount of honey to make a great deal of skincare products – in fact, just one jar of honey can make hundreds of hand creams and lotions. “I simply started eking out what I had available to me,” she says, “and it all went from there.”
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PICTURE: LUCY KAYNE
Local Life
ABOVE: The Happy Bee Company’s popular hand and nail cream – in addition to containing beeswax and raw honey from Sally Brown’s much-loved bees, it’s Paraben and allergen free, uses a preservative approved by the Soil Association, and the container itself is recyclable.
One of the central elements of The Happy Bee Company is Sally’s dedication to working in partnership with nature, rather than in competition with it. “I’ll eventually go up to eight hives, I think, but I’ll never become an industrial sized business,” she says. “I like to work with the bees, always making sure they’re happy and healthy.” Sally really does care for her bees. While some companies strip the hardworking insects of all their honey and constantly move bees from site to site (causing them stress), The Happy Bee Company likes to take a little rather than the whole batch. Sally’s bees are now settled in for the winter, and the process of getting them ready for the colder months is a long and loving one – without making sure they’re safe, bees face a number of dangers from a range of different animals during the winter. In September, Sally starts to make sure the bees have lots of honey and are nicely fed, and also treats them against the fearsome-sounding Varroa mite – which is a major threat to them. After this, chicken wire fencing is attached to the exteriors of the hives to keep woodpeckers out, and finally they’re strapped down to make sure they can’t be blown away in adverse weather conditions.
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Despite all this hard work and care taken to protect the bees, life in the countryside comes with its inevitable and unpredicatable dangers – last year, for example, Sally lost two of her hives after a large deer managed to knock them over. Sally is now back to her original operation of two hives, but one of them is especially exciting. One of The Happy Bee Company’s hives is operating under a new system called the ‘Rose Hive’ which was created a few years ago by an Irish beekeeper called Tim Rowe. It’s taken Sally two years to get the bees familiar with the new system and this will be their first winter in it. “The rose hive should be much better for the bees over the winter and for the rest of the year,” says Sally. “I’m really excited about seeing what happens.” Sally currently sells four key products in The Happy Bee Company collection – Body Butter Balm, Body Lotion, Body Salt Scrub and Beeswax and Honey Natural Hand and Nail Cream. You can buy all of these products in Sally’s online shop, and they’re almost irresistible when you discover the fantastic array of benefits they have for your skin. “Our raw honey is ‘cold processed’ which means that no heat is applied to it whatsoever,” explains Sally. All the enzymes and vitamins produced by the
bees are still live and active – they haven’t been destroyed through pasteurisation. “The beeswax we produce is also so much better for you than paraffinbased wax,” she explains. “It’s also better for the environment and it really does let your skin breathe without unnecessary chemicals.” For Christmas, Sally has been working on five new delicioussounding fragrances: Orange Blossom, English Rose, White Tea, Lavender and Cherry Blossom. “I like to stress to people that the only essential oil present is lavender,” she says, “and the rest are all allergen-free.” The active ingredients in the base oils, avocado oil, sunflower oil, shea butter and beeswax combine together to create a perfect moisturiser for the skin. “You get the immediate effect of the avocado oil absorbing into your skin,” explains Sally, “and the rest moisturise in stages throughout the day.” Sally has worked tirelessly to create the perfect blend of oils to benefit the skin, proving that love and care quite literally buzzes throughout everything The Happy Bee Company puts its name to. For further information on the wonderful work of Sally and her bees, visit her website and online shop at www.thehappybeecompany.co.uk
KLmagazine December 2015
The Fent Shop By appointment to Her Majesty The Queen Purveyor of Dress Fabrics and Haberdashery P.F.Day & Son King’s Lynn
Gift vouche r available s any am in ount
Largest selection of fabrics in West & North Norfolk, with all stock on display
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41 Broad Street, King’s Lynn, Norfolk, PE30 1DP
T: 01553 768613 | W: www.thefentshopkingslynn.co.uk KLmagazine December 2015
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www.dmgtimber.co.uk
Email: dmgtimber@fsmail.net | Address: Merries Farm, Pullover Road, West Lynn, King’s Lynn, PE34 3LS KLmagazine December 2015
“We’re totally delighted with our new kitchen. Bespoke Pine n Oak were absolutely brilliant and we honestly can’t speak highly enough of them and their work...” JANET & TONY HARDING Friday Bridge, Cambridgeshire
The perfect recipe for finely crafted furniture... How Bespoke Pine n Oak can turn your ideas into beautiful reality
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hen Tony and Janet Harding of Friday Bridge wanted to create a fabulous family kitchen it wasn’t just a case of removing and replacing the existing units. “We wanted to retain some elements of the old kitchen,” says Tony, “but we also wanted to add wall cupboards and incorporate a double oven. We wanted a display cabinet and new worktops – and we wanted it all to match. It was a lot more involved than simply building a new kitchen from scratch.” Armed with a few rudimentary sketches, the couple found the answer to their dreams with Kevin Berry and Carl Ingram at Bespoke Pine n Oak in King’s Lynn, who’ve built a formidable reputation for individually designed, high quality and traditionally handcrafted furniture. “We hadn’t thought too much about the practical side of our plans,” says
Janet, “but Carl was amazingly talented at taking our very rough ideas and making them work.” Indeed, nothing was too much trouble for Bespoke Pine n Oak, who visited the Hardings at home, precisely measuring every corner and getting a feel for the space; ‘borrowed’ their new oven to ensure it complemented the new units and was at exactly the right height; and invited Tony and Janet to their on-site workshop to see the work in progress. “Even though it was at the bare wood stage we could see the kitchen was going to be something special,” says Tony. “It was clearly being made with real skill and a lot of attention to detail.” That commitment to ensuring total customer satisfaction even continued after the kitchen was finished. “We’d specified wooden shelves for the display cabinet,” says Janet, “but we realised they prevented the light from
filtering through the unit. It was our fault really, but Carl was more than happy to replace them with glass shelves.” The result is a truly stunning and handcrafted kitchen that meets (and exceeds) everything the Hardings were looking for. “We’re totally delighted with it,” says Tony. “Bespoke Pine n Oak were absolutely brilliant and we can’t speak highly enough of them and their work.” From a single bookshelf to a complete kitchen, Bespoke Pine n Oak can create the furniture you’ve been looking for. In fact, if you can draw it, they can make it!
information
Bespoke Pine n Oak Ltd 28 Tower Street, King’s Lynn PE30 1EJ Tel: 01553 766532 E-mail: info@bespokepinenoakltd.com
www.bespokepinenoakltd.com
Bespoke Pine n Oak: if you can draw it – we can make it! KLmagazine December 2015
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KLmagazine December 2015
PICTURES: LUCY SHERINGHAM
Local Life
ABOVE: Lucy Sheringham on the family farm at Necton – when she’s not behind the wheel of a tractor, she’s designing a wonderful collection of silk scarves (opposite)
Combining the worlds of fashion and farming... Instead of choosing between her family’s proud agricultural tradition or following her dreams of becoming a successful fashion designer, Lucy Sheringham has decided to do both
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oing from designing your own range of scarves in the studio in the morning to slinging on a pair of wellies and driving a tractor in the afternoon doesn’t sound like your regular career, but that’s just another day in the life of Lucy Sheringham. The 26-year-old from Necton designs and produces beautiful (and extremely popular) silk scarves from her studio on the family farm – and is also learning how to run the family farm to succeed her father. “I’ve worked on the farm since I was really little, but I’ve also always been creative,” says Lucy. “I think I’ve always
KLmagazine December 2015
known that I wanted to do both.” Lucy says she gets her creative spirit from her Mum and her interest in farming from her Dad, and she’s always enjoyed a mixture of both. As a result of that innate creativity, Lucy went to Loughborough University and studied Textiles, after which that she moved to London for a year and undertook a series of internships in the fashion industry. “I worked for the likes of Jonathan Saunders, Philip Treacy and Tatty Devine to get a flavour of what to expect from all aspects from the fashion industry and work out what I was most interested in,” she says. “It
was so interesting to work for such famous names and I absolutely loved Tatty Devine – but jewellery really isn’t my forte!” London wasn’t for Lucy either, as she missed being with her family and everything about being back in Necton, including working on the farm. Creating her scarves goes hand-in-hand with her work on the farm, and she admits she actually relies on the environment for inspiration. “I’m there every day with amazing views and lots of different colours and it inspires me every day,” she explains. “I take photos of the farm with my phone while I’m out and about to draw
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Local Life
inspiration from when I get back to the studio.” Lucy’s work on the arable farm is machinery-based and her day-to-day work includes driving tractors and learning to run the farm. “We have some other people working on the farm as well, and I’m shadowing my father so he can pass on the reigns one day,” she says. “I’m also learning how to carry out the office side of things which is really quite hard. There’s so much to learn, it’s really hands on.” On an average day, Lucy could find herself in her studio designing for her new collection at one moment and receiving a call to help out on the farm the next. During busy periods like the extremely manic harvest, Lucy finds that being organised is the key to making it all work. “I would get up especially early and finish the stitching whilst having my breakfast,” explains Lucy. Of course, having supportive family on hand is also a big bonus for a business like this. “Mum is a massive help,” says Lucy. “When I get orders in during busy times on the farm, I’ll make the scarves and leave them for her – and then she
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packages them up for me and sends them off!” Like so many independent businesses now, those orders come in from her online shop – when you enter Lucy’s website, you can click to see all her scarves and her different designs and simply add them to your basket. You’ll now know about the family-based teamwork happening at the other end of your order! Proving just how much influence Lucy’s environment has on her work, the first collection of digitally-printed silk scarves is actually named after fields on the farm. The second and brand new collection is based around natural elements – feathers and photographs of wood Lucy’s taken around the farm. “The new collection is quite an extensive one, and the scarves are perfect for the time of year,” she says. The scarves are very big to wrap around you and keep warm – and the collection features feathers, pheasants, peacocks and lots of autumnal colours. “I spent months on them because I kept changing my mind and also adding in more ideas, which was a great creative process,” says Lucy.
Lucy is obviously a Norfolk girl born and bred, and extremely proud to be from the area. “I have my own place, but I love being really close to my family,” she says. As it is for so many others, the coastline is a jewel in the crown of Norfolk’s many attractions for her. “I obviously love everything about farm life,” she says, “but I absolutely adore the Norfolk coast – and being so close to all of my friends is great.” So what’s next for such a brilliant (and extremely busy) talent? “My new collection was launched at the Country Living Christmas Fair in London last month, and at the moment I’m concentrating on that,” says Lucy. “Once that excitement is over, I’ll be looking to start designing for Spring and Summer 2016 – and also be carrying on with all the farm work. We’ll just have to see where it all goes!” Never before has saying ‘watch this space’ been more exciting! For more information on Lucy’s work, to view her collections, and to visit her online shop, please see her website at www.lucysheringham.com
KLmagazine December 2015
KLmagazine December 2015
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fashion Fashion
Here’s your chance to feel festive and look fabulous with this season’s choice of glittering eveningwear styles. From sparkling metallics and sequins to elegant laces and bold leathers you’ll certainly be ready to turn heads this Christmas with plenty of inspiration from our favourite local boutiques...
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Red Lace Dress (£269) by Michaela Louisa OLIVIAS OF SHERINGHAM LTD | Sheringham 01263 823149 KLmagazine December 2015
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KLmagazine December 2015
davidaukerjewellery.co.uk
125 Norfolk Street, King's Lynn, Norfolk, PE30 1AP • Tel. 01553 770536 • KLmagazine December 2015
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Fashion
Blue Lurex Dress (£119) by Almost Famous GODDARDS | King’s Lynn 01553 772382 66
KLmagazine December 2015
KLmagazine December 2015
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More Quality Menswear for winter now in stock
Smith’s Footwear 37 Bridge St, Downham Market PE38 9DW Tel: 01366 388883
METCALFE COPEMAN & PETTEFAR LLP Family Law Department
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KLmagazine December 2015
ABOVE: FotoStop (run by Tony Bridger, pictured right in the store’s dedicated on-site studio) has one of the largest vacuum presses in the whole country – it’s big enough to enable photographic images to be mounted on doors!
Discover FotoStop and enjoy the bigger picture! Why FotoStop is the only stop you’ll ever need for all your professional photographic printing and studio requirements...
T
hey say that a picture is worth a thousand words, but you’d need considerably more than that to adequately describe everything you’ll find at FotoStop Studios on Downham Market’s Bridge Street. From restoring your treasured family images to framing your precious items, from stunning portraits to personalised gifts, FotoStop offers a complete range of professional photography, processing and finishing services under one roof. It’s a far cry from the day when Tony Bridger – who founded the business – first started processing films some 20 years ago. “The world of photography has changed enormously over the last two decades, and we’ve had to change with it,” he says. “We’ve always kept up to date with the latest advances and innovations, and there aren’t many businesses that have the level of technical resources or creative capabilities we have here today.” Indeed, that investment has resulted KLmagazine December 2015
in Fotostop having one of the largest vacuum presses in the country (so big that it can accommodate a whole door) and the very latest Noritsu mini-lab, which uses the most advanced paper and ink technology to produce high quality prints with a longevity of at least 200 years. Not only that. FotoStop has a large, dedicated onsite photo studio with an extensive lighting set-up and industrystandard backdrops; a team of experienced photographers, image specialists and photo-retouchers; and a bespoke framing service that makes the most of the latest equipment for everything from the simplest of shapes to complex 3D frames. “Strangely, the most important elements of our picture framing service are the ones you can’t actually see!” says Tony. “We use nondestructive materials with low pH values and offer museum clarity glass, which is the highest quality specialist glass in the industry. It means that
whatever you have framed will be protected and preserved for many years to come.” Whether you’re looking for a memorable and fun family shoot, your wedding album on a set of mugs, or a professional frame that does justice to your very best photographs, you only need to make one stop – FotoStop.
information
FotoStop Studios 22 Bridge Street, Downham Market, Norfolk PE38 9DH Telephone: 01366 382323 Website: www.mrbee.co.uk E-mail: info@mrbee.co.uk
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KLmagazine December 2015
PICTURE: SUPPLIED / SANDRINGHAM APPLE JUICE
Food & Drink
ABOVE: A glass of Sandringham Apple Juice, produced on the estate by Andrew Jarvis using apples grown in the original Royal orchards
A crop of quality and a taste of Sandringham... In 2013, after over two decades on the Royal fruit farm at Sandringham, Andrew Jarvis took charge of producing the estate’s apple juice – and the results have never tasted better
I
f you were ever lucky enough to be invited to a garden party at Buckingham Palace you’d find yourself in a very different world – but you’d still be able to enjoy a taste of Norfolk in the delights of Sandringham Apple Juice. The first orchards at Sandringham Fruit Farm were planted by the Queen’s father King George VI, and the farm has been growing a variety of apples ever since – although the estate only started producing Sandringham Apple Juice in 1999. Two years ago, having spent the last 21 years working on the Royal fruit farm, Andrew Jarvis decided to take the
KLmagazine December 2015
reins of around 12 hectares of orchard and take charge of the juice company – and from there the venture has gone from strength to strength. Royal functions across the country serve the highly-acclaimed Sandringham Apple Juice – the famous Buckingham Palace Garden Parties benefit from the beverage, as do any receptions held at Holyrood Palace. It’s sold at the farm shops at Windsor and Chatsworth, in many prestigious food stores in London – and even enjoyed at and Trinity College Cambridge! After the separation of Sandringham Apple Juice from the estate itself, the
fruit farm was divided – and while Andrew kept all the apple trees, the Sandringham Estate retained the blackcurrants. Andrew remains based on the estate, however, in a wonderfully converted barn where all the apple magic happens. All the juicing and pressing takes place on site in the factory which operates on a production basis of 90% apple juice and 10% cider. The apples are pressed with a belt press to produce a pure apple juice with no additives other than Vitamin C as an anti-oxidant – something Andrew is very proud of. “I think our juice tastes better than
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Food & Drink
Know your apples... A closer look at the wonderful apple varieties used to produce the distinctive tastes and flavours of Sandringham Apple Juice. DISCOVERY A popular English early apple variety, and a good choice for the garden – it was first introduced to the market by the Suffolk nurseryman Jack Matthews in the early 1960s.
any other,” he says. “It’s partly due to the brilliant chalk land the apples grow on, but it’s also down to the production methods we use.” Sandringham Apple Juice is pasteurised in the bottle, which means the bottle is filled with cold apple juice before being placed in a water bath of up to 70 degrees to kill off any bacteria. “I think that’s why Sandringham apple juice has a better flavour than juices produced by flash pasteurising, when it’s put into bottles when it’s still hot,” he says. “Many producers prefer to use that method, but personally I think it loses a lot of flavour.” The juices and ciders produced at the Sandringham Apple Juice factory are mainly made from apples grown at the orchards, and Andrew and his team make eight single variety juices. “The apples we use include Discovery, Katy, Worcester Pearmain, Laxton’s Fortune, Cox, Egremont Russet, Howgate Wonder and Bramley,” he says. “That’s a lot of variety, and each one is packed with its own individual taste and sweetness.” Sandringham Apple Juice also has a very popular product (especially tempting for the forthcoming festivities) in the shape of its Apple Brandy, which is
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essentially a distilled cider. “Normal brandy is made from grapes and wine,” Andrew explains, “but this is made from apples and cider, and it’s always really popular as a locally-grown and produced Christmas present.” Something that’s also really popular during the apple harvest is the ‘Pick Your Own’ opportunities Andrew offers at the Sandringham fruit farm. This season usually runs seven days a week for approximately three weeks during September – this year’s began on Saturday 12th September and was a great success. “During the apple harvest, people are welcome to come and pick their own apples, and they usually tend to pick dessert apples and normal apples,” says Andrew, “but they can also pick their own to effectively make their own apple juice!” Next time you’re in a local farm shop, make sure you keep an eye out for a bottle of Sandringham Apple Juice. You can even now shop for the juice on their brand new website so all of us can experience the taste of a Royal garden party or reception in the comfort of our own homes!
For more information on Sandringham Apple Juice and to visit the company’s online store, please see the website at www.sandringhamapplejuice.co.uk
KATY A very attractive and easy-togrow early apple variety from Sweden that was introduced to the UK in 1947. It’s properly called Katya. WORCESTER PEARMAIN A popular early-season English apple, that sometimes has a distinct strawberry flavour. It was developed in Worcester (naturally!) in the 1870s. COX Developed in England around 1825, this is the benchmark for flavour in apples – from a good tree in a good year it can achieve a quite exceptional taste. LAXTON’S FORTUNE A popular English Cox-style variety, with a sweeter flavour and easier to grow, raised by the famous Laxton Brothers nursery in Bedford in 1904. EGREMONT RUSSET The classic English russet apple, with a charateristic sweet/dry ‘nutty’ flavour. It was developed on the estate of Lord Petworth in Sussex in 1872. HOWGATE WONDER A very large cooking apple introduced in 1915 that produces an excellent sharp juice. BRAMLEY The definitive English cooking apple that possesses a distinctly sharp acidic flavour. It was originates from Nottinghamshire and was introduced in 1837.
KLmagazine December 2015
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A TRADITIONAL PUB WITH TRADITIONAL FOOD
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STEAK NIGHT Mondays, Tuesdays & Wednesdays PIE NIGHT Monday nights only £7.50 & includes a drink LUNCHTIME SPECIAL On Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays. Soup, sandwich or a wrap only £6 and includes a drink
Guar antee your self a brilli ant, stres s-free Chri stma s in our cosy villag e pub! We offer Christmas party menus, with a great choice of traditional festive favourites. We also serve Christmas Day lunch and a Boxing Day buffet - a great way to entertain the family without doing the washing up! BOOK NOW to avoid disappointment! Find us on Facebook!
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A new chapter in the story of the Feathers... It’s steeped in Royal history, but the eyes of Dersingham’s famous pub are fixed firmly forward as it looks to a very bright future or John Higginson, who took over the running of the Feathers in Dersingham at the start of the year, it was a case of love at first sight. “My brother and I were already running a couple of pubs in Norfolk,” he says, “and when we heard The Feathers was available, we thought we’d take a look. We knew it was right as soon as we pulled into the car park. The location was marvellous, the atmosphere was great, and I think we made the decision before we’d even got out of the car!” Rebuilt as The Lamb after a fire damaged the original coaching inn, the beautiful carrstone hotel was purchased as part of the Sandringham Estate in 1882 for Albert Edward, Prince of Wales – and was later renamed in honour of the future king. “We’re only a mile or so from Sandringham House, and we’re very
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proud of our Royal connections,” says John. “Happily, the pub hasn’t changed much over the years – it’s still packed with tradition and has retained an authentic feel.” It’s a tradition that John’s very keen to build on, ensuring The Feathers continues to offer a wide range of local ales and an extensive menu that makes the most of local produce – and is cooked freshly every day. For those wishing to enjoy the warm welcome for longer, The Feathers also has a range of fully-equipped ensuite bedrooms and a converted Methodist chapel that’s perfect for families and those seeking some extra privacy. Meanwhile, the spacious Stable Tap function room has its own bar and is ideal for larger parties, business meetings and celebrations, while The Feathers’ two large and landscaped gardens make a beautiful setting for local weddings – and
a peaceful and relaxing location for warmer days. John’s plans for the pub include making the facilities more accessible, developing distinctive drinks and signature dishes, and making the gardens even more inviting – but he’s determined not to change the pub’s defining character. “We’re not trying to be a gastropub or anything too pretentious,” he says. “The Feathers is about giving people great food and drink in a lovely environment. That’s our tradition, and that’s how we see our future.” Indeed there’s probably never been a better time to enjoy everything The Feathers has to offer – all in the very best traditions of the British pub.
The Feathers
information
71 Manor Road, Dersingham, King’s Lynn Norfolk PE31 6LN Telephone: 01485 540768 Website: www.feathersdersingham.com E-mail: info@feathersdersingham.com
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ABOVE: Sean Portass behind the bar of the resently-opened Palmers Ale House and Kitchen in Long Sutton
A taste of something new for Long Sutton... Earlier this year, Palmers Ale House and Kitchen brought new life to one of Long Sutton’s oldest buildings and a touch of North Norfolk style to the town. KL magazine talks to Sean Portass...
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t has many examples of fine Georgian architecture, possesses the highest, oldest and best preserved lead church spire in England (if not Europe), and is a regular award-winner in the East Midlands in Bloom competition. It is, of course, Long Sutton, and it’s probably fair to say that Sean Portass is one of the market town’s greatest fans. “I think it’s by far the best town in the area,” he says. “I love it. I always have. It’s got so much going for it, and I’m determined to make it even better.” He’s in a formidable position to do so as well. Today, Sean owns six pubs in the local area (and an equal number of
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stores), and has just opened Palmers Ale House & Kitchen, a luxury boutique hotel and gastropub set in a lovinglyrestored 16th century thatched building in the town centre. Sean’s journey to Palmers is a remarkable one. His family comes from Sutton Bridge, where his grandfather used to run the local garage and where his father still runs the music store. In fact, local music fans might well remember Nigel Portass from his days with Danny Ford & the Offbeats, who were stalwarts of the local music scene for the best
part of the 1960s. “He had a great career and played alongside people such as Tom Jones and Chuck Berry,” says Sean. “He still plays in bands today, and even passed some of his musical talents on to me – I once played drums alongside him in a local band!” On leaving school, Sean studied carpentry and joinery at college before spending a short time as a local motor dealer. “I didn’t have too many qualifications and I wasn’t too sure what I wanted to do,” he remembers. “I did want to play a KLmagazine December 2015
part in the local community and was looking for a niche.” Fate duly stepped in with the property crash of the late 1980s, a time that saw Sean gradually building a sizeable portfolio of local properties and stores before being invited by his then motherin-law to take on the running of The Turpin pub in the centre of Long Sutton. “It’s a fabulous old building that dates back to the 16th century and has been part of the life of Long Sutton for hundreds of years,” says Sean. “It was a great opportunity to make a positive impact on the town,” he says. Sean’s vision for The Turpin was an immediate success, and the experience of helping develop a local pub with a loyal following was a particularly rewarding one. In fact, Sean enjoyed it so much he bought the pub outright, and although he sold it some 16 months later he’d managed to develop a real taste (and a true talent) for the pub trade. “After The Turpin I never really looked back,” he says. “I soon bought another pub, and then another, and then another! There’s something very special about a traditional pub and it’s important that we do our best to keep them – and support them.” The story came full circle last August, as Sean made a long-awaited return to The Turpin, buying the pub he’d sold some 15 years earlier. Sean had big plans for The Turpin (which Shaun describes as being “a grubby little spit and sawdust pub” at the time) and started work immediately. But first there was the name to consider. “The building’s been a part of the town for so long I thought it was important to retain a link with its past,” says Sean. “I wanted it to be an important part of the town so decided to ask local residents for ideas.” Enlisting the help of the Long Sutton
KLmagazine December 2015
ABOVE: Its name retains a link to its former life as The Turpin, but Palmers Ale House and Kitchen is setting luxurious new standards for food, for drinks, and for accommodation
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Civic Society, Sean ran a competition to come up with a new name for the pub and one entry immediately stood out. The pub’s original name came from the famous 18th century highwayman who spent almost a year in Long Sutton, but while in Lincolnshire Dick Turpin was actually known as ‘John Palmer’ – indeed, that’s the first name written on his gravestone. “I already had the idea of calling it an ale house and kitchen,” says Sean, “and ‘Palmers’ fitted brilliantly.” Opening in June this year, Palmers Ale House & Kitchen is a bar, restaurant and boutique hotel with seven comfortable and stylish bedrooms. “I wanted to make it very special, and took a lot of inspiration for the interiors from the North Norfolk coast,” says Sean. “I wanted it to be something Long Sutton could be really proud of.” Transforming the old building, Sean has opened up the garden (which now features a bandstand), added a large glass conservatory that opens onto a spacious courtyard, built a new kitchen and cellar, and even re-instated the original thatched roof, which he found still in place under all the tiles. But it’s not just the look and the name that’s changed. “I’ve provided all types of pub food over the years,” says Sean, “but I wanted
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Palmers to be different. The whole ethos of our menus is making the most of the fantastic produce Lincolnshire has to offer – and making the journey from field to fork as short as possible.” Arriving freshly every day, the local ingredients are used to create a regularly-changing selection of Ale House Classics, sharing platters and imaginative a la carte dishes by Palmers’ talented Head Chef Paul Boulding. “There aren’t any frozen products in the building,” says Sean. “We cure all our own meats, smoke our own fish, slow cook our ribs in cider for five hours, and we make all our own burgers. And believe me, you really can taste the difference!” Palmers is also building a strong reputation as a popular music venue. Jazz and swing afternoons are held on the first Sunday of every month (hosted by Sean’s father Nigel), and regular evening events feature a variety of local
bands. This month, for example, you can enjoy the brilliant acoustic quartet The Macarno’s on December 12th, while the widely-acclaimed seven-piece English folk outfit Addison’s Uncle will be playing at the Palmers Christmas Party on December 27th. “It’s surpassed anything I ever imagined,” says Sean. “We’re serving so many meals I’m beginning to wish we’d built a bigger kitchen – and our Christmas and New Year celebrations sold out within a week of the tickets being printed! I think Palmers is exactly what Long Sutton’s been waiting for.” He’s never been one to rest on his laurels, however, and Sean’s sights are already set on his next project – he’s just bought the Grade II listed Red Lion at Holbeach. “Over the coming months I’m going to be transforming it into a traditional English pub,” he says. “I’ve got some great ideas and it’s going to be very exciting – but I’m not going to give away too many secrets just yet!”
information
Palmers Ale House & Kitchen 46 Market Place, Long Sutton, Lincolnshire PE12 9JF Telephone: 01406 365554 Website: www.palmerslongsutton.co.uk E-mail: info@palmerslongsutton.co.uk
KLmagazine December 2015
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KLmagazine December 2015
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4 High Street, Long Sutton PE12 9DB | Tel: 01406 366789 Open: Mon-Fri 9am-5pm, Sat 9am-4pm | Closed on Wednesdays
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Food & Drink
Cocoa marinated Sea Bass with Boulangere potatoes, creamed leeks & Spiced port sauce Serves: 6 INGREDIENTS 6x 250g Seabass fillets, descaled Spiced port sauce 1 cinnamon sticks 1 star anise 1 tspn coriander seeds 2 tspns cardamom pods 1 tspn black peppercorns 250ml red cooking wine 300ml cooking port 1 bay leaves 2 pinches cocoa nibs 50g butter
METHOD 1 Mix the Cocoa marinade ingredients together and pour over the seabass and marinate for at least 3 hours in a refrigerator. 2 Combine all of the spiced port sauce ingredients apart from the butter in a pan and bring to a boil. Turn the heat down to medium and reduce by half. Whisk in the butter over a gentle heat until completely incorporated. Pass through a fine sieve, then set aside until ready to use.
Recipe by Jules Hetherton Head Chef, Strattons Ash Close, Swaffham PE37 7NH Tel: 01760 725605 Web: www.strattonshotel.co.uk 80
3 For the Boulangere potatoes, grease a deep baking tray with butter. Layer the potato and onion alternating each layer (finish with potato), and season well. Mix the fish stock with boiling water and just cover the top of the potato. Dab blobs of butter on the top and cover with greaseproof paper. Bake at 170⁰C for at least 1 hour or until most of the liquid has evaporated. Press whilst hot with a weight. Chill before cutting into 6 portions. 4 Finely slice the leeks and wash
Cocoa marinade 2 tbspns cocoa nibs blitzed in a food processor until fine 3 tbspns rapeseed oil Boulangere potatoes 6 medium potatoes peeled and sliced in a robot coupe & washed with cold water 1 tspns of fish stock paste 1 onion finely sliced Salt and pepper to taste Leeks 3 whole leeks 3 tbspns butter 100ml cream
in cold salted water. Leave for 10 minutes before rinsing well and draining. Melt the 3 tbspns of butter in a large frying pan over a medium heat - it needs to coat the base of the pan. Add the leeks, together with the cream and seasoning. Then turn the heat down to low and let them cook gently for about 5 minutes, uncovered, stirring them 2 or 3 times. 5 Heat the potato portions on a baking sheet in a hot oven180°C/Fan 160°C/Gas 4- for 10 minutes until warmed through. Meanwhile remove the Sea Bass from the marinade. In a heavy frying pan heat some rapeseed oil until hot and cook the fillets skin side down, until almost all the flesh has turned white and the skin is crispy. Don’t over cook, this should only take minutes. 6 On large dinner plates place generous tablespoons of the leeks in the centre and sit the heated potato portions on the leek base. Place a fillet on each potato portion and finish with the warmed port sauce. Serve immediately.
KLmagazine December 2015
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BERNEY ARMS www.theberneyarms.co.uk Church Road, Barton Bendish PE33 9GF | Tel: 01366 347995
Family run restaurant in the heart of King’s Lynn, serving exceptional locally sourced food in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.
As featured in the prestigious ‘Michelin guide’ and ‘Waitrose Good Food guide’
Turkeys, cockerels & fresh game Smoked mackerel & salmon pâté Brancaster mussels Local oysters & shellfish Swordfish & tuna Fresh & smoked fish Free range eggs & local honey
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Extensive delicatessen counter with top quality cheeses and olives from home and abroad!
DONALDSONS A fresh taste of the sea
Austin Fields, King’s Lynn | Tel: 01553 772241 OPEN: Tues/Wed/Thurs 7am-4pm, Fri 7am-5pm, Sat 7am-3pm XMAS: Mon 21st 8am-5pm, Tue & Wed 7am-5pm, Xmas Eve 7am-1pm
strattons hotel with self catering, restaurant and café deli
boutique luxurious classic contemporary heart of norfolk award winning restaurant afternoon tea cocoes café deli self catering Luxury without sacrifice to the environment ash close swaffham norfolk pe37 7nh 01760 723845 enquiries@strattonshotel.com www.strattonshotel.com
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Serving lunch and supper Tuesday to Saturday. For more info on opening times and menus visit our website.
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KLmagazine December 2015
Christmas parties from £23pp Festive afternoon tea £15.50pp New Year packages from £530 for 2 nights dinner, bed & breakfast
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Food & Drink
Roast rib of beef with a red wine and port gravy Serves: 6-8 INGREDIENTS Fore rib of beef (about 2kg) on the bone, chined 1 dessert spoon of English mustard powder Black cracked pepper Sea salt 2 tbsp of rapeseed oil 2 medium onions quartered 2 carrots peeled and roughly chopped 2 sticks of celery roughly chopped 4 cloves of garlic crushed 1 large sprig of thyme 250ml of water
FOR THE GRAVY 250ml of merlot 250ml of ruby port 1 large onion, sliced 1 sprig of thyme 500ml good beef stock
METHOD 1 Take the beef out of the fridge and allow it to come up to room temperature before you begin cooking. This is important when cooking a large piece of meat to ensure it cooks evenly. 2 Pre-heat the oven to its highest setting. 3 Rub the mustard powder, black pepper and sea salt all over the beef. 4 Place a heavy based roasting tin on the hob and add the rapeseed oil and seal the beef on all sides to brown and crisp up. Remove the meat and make a bed for the beef to rest on with the onion, celery, carrot, garlic and thyme. Rest the beef on top of the vegetables and pour the water into the tin before putting it in the oven. Cook for 20 minutes on the high heat before turning the temperature down to 160째c/gas mark 3. Calculate the remainder of the cooking time as follows:
For medium for every 450g, cook for 20 minutes For rare for every 450g, cook for 15 minutes 5 Meanwhile to make the gravy add the merlot, ruby port, onion, thyme and beef stock to a saucepan and reduce by two thirds. Then remove from the heat. 6 When the beef is ready, remove from the oven and rest on a warm plate and cover for 30 minutes. This will ensure a tender piece of meat. 7 Return the roasting tin back to the hob and pour in the wine and port mixture. Stir, ensuring you remove all the little bits stuck to the bottom of the tin. Then pass this through a sieve into a saucepan and add salt and pepper to taste. 8 When the resting time is up carve the meat and pour over the gravy.
Recipe by Bowers Butchers 71 Lynn Road, Gaywood, King's Lynn PE30 4PR Tel: 01553 773845 Web: www.bowersbutchers.com 82
KLmagazine December 2015
Fill your Christmas table with fresh local tastes! How Bowers Butchers can help you celebrate with an awardwinning range of local produce – from the turkey to the trimmings ne of the very best things about Christmas is all that wonderful festive food – and there’s no better way of celebrating the festivities than with high quality produce that’s been responsibly sourced and locally prepared – and that tastes delicious. “Christmas is my favourite time of the year as a butcher,” says James Middleton, who first started at the family-run Gaywood butchers some 27 years ago helping his grandfather and uncle over the festive period. “It’s a very special time for us and for our customers. Christmas dinner is one of the most important meals of the year, and it’s a real pleasure to be able to help people enjoy it!” From Norfolk free-range turkeys to a range of local game products and geese from L & AE Munns in Chatteris, Bowers Butchers have everything your festive table needs – including their popular Christmas hampers, which feature a wonderful selection of quality meats together with Bower’s famous award-
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KLmagazine December 2015
winning sausages and fantastic homemade pickles. New Christmas treats from Bowers also now includes haggis – carefully made on the premises from the finest ingredients, they’re hugely popular and some of the tastiest you’ll find south of the border. “Even people with Scottish roots love them,” says James, “Someone recently told us they tasted better than the ones on the Royal Mile in Edinburgh!” And then there’s Bowers Butchers’ superb pork pies, made and cooked onsite to a traditional family recipe.
“Thanks to our tireless piemaker Joy, they’re always really popular and they’re packed with great local flavours,” says James. “And they’re perfect with a serving of Grandma Bowers’ Piccalilli!” For a little Yuletide inspiration, don’t forget to pick up one of Bowers Butchers’ festive recipe cards. Designed to help you make the most of this feast of outstanding local produce, they’re also invaluable for ensuring you order exactly the right amount to keep everyone satisfied. Happily, there’s still time to place your Christmas orders, and James and his team are always willing to help – with a friendly face and plenty of expert advice. In fact, has Christmas ever tasted quite this good?
information
Bowers Butchers Happy Christmas from Bowers Butchers!
71 Lynn Road, Gaywood, King’s Lynn Norfolk PE30 4PR Telephone: 01553 773845 Website: www.bowersbutchers.com E-mail: info@bowersbutchers.com
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RestaurantReview
KL magazine visits the Victory Inn at Clenchwarton for a truly memorable meal
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onveniently located on the main road in Clenchwarton, the Victory Inn is a traditional country pub that (happily) isn’t trying to be anything else. Its bare brick fireplaces and countless nautical touches all help create a comfortable and friendly atmosphere, and it’s a lovely home-from-home feeling that landlord Wayne Howard takes great pains to preserve. He was more than happy to serve us and he took time to chat with us about his plans for the Victory Inn. In fact, you feel you’re dining at his home rather than his pub! In fact, one of the diners next to us couldn’t have put it better. “I wasn’t expecting my steak and kidney pie to taste as good as my mother used to make,” he said. “It’s the best I’ve tasted in years!” Although I was driving and couldn’t make the most of what was on offer at the bar (limiting myself to a still mineral water), my partner did order a delightful Pino Grigio while we looked at the menu’s many tempting food choices. To start, we shared the sweet chilli chicken strips, which were served on a bed of salad and accompanied by a sweet chilli dipping sauce. We both
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agreed the chicken was beautifully tender and had been freshly battered and cooked – and the sauce balanced the sweet and the spicy ingredients perfectly. For my main course, I chose the homemade meatballs with penne pasta, and ordered a side dish of cauliflower cheese and peas. The meatballs really lived up to their homemade credentials, as they were very generously sized, complemented by a rich (and very tasty) tomato sauce. I must say that the cauliflower was amazing, and though its crunchy texture is a matter of taste, I always think there’s nothing worse than overcooked vegetables. The cheese didn’t overpower the taste of the cauliflower either – and the leeks (the addition of which came as a nice surprise to me) added a delicious touch to the dish. My partner, meanwhile, had ordered the slow-roasted lamb shank – which was served on a bed of champ (spring onions and mashed potatoes) and accompanied by a redcurrant and mint sauce. It looked marvellous on the plate, and he was full of praise for the lamb itself, which he described as being perfectly tender and full of flavour. For dessert, we both opted for the
salted caramel cheesecake from the specials board. Smooth, creamy and satisfyingly rich (without being too heavy), it was a truly luxurious way to end our meal. We couldn’t help noticing that equally as sweet were the prices of the desserts – our cheesecake, for example, was only £3.75 which we thought was really excellent value. That was reflected in our final bill, which was only £35.95 – and given the quality of the food we’d enjoyed and the service we’d been treated to was quite amazing. We’ll be sure to make a return to Clenchwarton soon, especially as Wayne told us the Victory Inn was about to welcome a new chef and introduce completely new menus. The good news is that he’ll be keeping all the classic pub food options, but will be also offering more imaginative and contemporary dishes. In addition to giving people at the bar a taste of things to come with a choice of tempting-sounding canapes, he’ll also be introducing what he described to us as a ‘posh corner’ – a table that can be pre-booked and at which you’ll be able to collaborate with the chef in having a meal created and prepared for you. It all sounds very exciting. We left the Victory Inn believing it’s the kind of pub every village should have – its charming atmosphere, commitment to high quality food and genuinely good value were a real treat, and it really is well worth discovering.
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THE VICTORY INN 243 Main Road, Clenchwarton King’s Lynn, Norfolk PE34 4AQ T: 01553 775668 W: www.victoryinnclenchwarton.co.uk
KLmagazine December 2015
QU QUALITY, ALIT Y, FREE RANGE MEA MEAT T & POUL POULTRY TRY ALL LOCALLY LOCALLY SOURCED IN NORFOLK.
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www.goddardsofnorfolk.co.uk www .goddardsofnorfolk.co.uk 4W Wales ales Court, Downham Market Market PE38 9JZ | 01366 388377
The
Coach & Horses Dersingham
Merry Christmas & Happy New Year to all our customers BOOK NOW for your pre-Christmas party! Or come and enjoy a meal from our updated December menu in the new look restaurant
Book now!
From January • Two for One Monday evenings • Steak night Wednesday evenings Booking advised – please check website for full details
Clenchwarton Road, West Lynn King’s Lynn PE34 3LW Web: brewersfayre.co.uk
Tel: 01553 772221 KLmagazine December 2015
www.thecoachpub.com | 01485 540391 77 Manor Road, Dersingham, King’s Lynn PE31 6LN
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Food & Drink
Christmas Tart INGREDIENTS 6 oz mixed dried fruit 6 oz figs 6 oz apricots 3 oz glazed cherries 1 tbsp cinnamon rind & juice of 1 orange 2 tbsp grand marnier 2 eggs 6 oz demerara sugar 6 oz maple syrup 2 oz butter 3 oz grated marzipan 2 oz almonds or pecan nuts 86
METHOD 1 Mix togther the dried fruit, figs, apricots, cherries, cinnamon, orange rind and juice, and the grand marnier into a bowl and put to one side. 2 In another mixing bowl add the eggs, sugar, maple syrup, butter, marzipan and almonds or pecan nuts.
3 Add the contents of the first mixing bowl to the second and stir well. 4 Place the mixture in to a 12 inch short pastry case (uncooked) and bake at 165Âşc for 45 mins to 1 hour.
Recipe by The Ship Hotel Main Road, Brancaster, King’s Lynn PE31 8AP Tel: 01485 210333 Web: www.shiphotelnorfolk.co.uk KLmagazine December 2015
Celebration
err the oth Mo By M Krusty
Order your your Christmas cake cake no now w fr from om £15
Sugarcraft Sugarcraft supplies, supplies, wedding cakes cakes & novelty novelty cakes cakes V Visit isit our sho shop p in Ga Gaywood! ywood! Opposi Opposite te the Library, Library, free par parking king
1E R River iver Lane, Ga Gaywood, ywood, King’ King’ss Lynn Lynn PE30 4HD W Web: eb: www www.motherkrustyscakes.co.uk .motherkrustyscakes.co.uk T Tel: el: 01553 762583
Come and try our new delicious PizZa Menu!
CA H LEY HO ALL TE L Homemade thin crust bases and the finest and freshest of toppings.
Fire Walking Night Friday, 4th December
Treat yourself to our delicious
Carol Singing & Music Night Sunday, 20th December
PRE-CHRISTMAS MENU
• Fabulous accommodation including delicious breakfasts
WT L]LY` KH` (SS NYV\W ZPaLZ JH[LYLK MVY
• 4 Star rated inn by AA and 5 star rated food
• Family friendly pub with a wonderful beer garden Like us on Facebook to keep up to date with events
To book a table or a room please calL 01760 755398 • www.ostrichcastleacre.com Stocks Green, Castle Acre, King’s Lynn PE32 2AE
KLmagazine December 2015
1 November - 21 December
old hunstanton road, old hunstanton, norfolk pe36 6hh t 01485 533486 e mail@caleyhallhotel.co.uk
www.caleyhallhotel.co.uk 87
We have over 50,000m² of natural stone in stock with access to over 250,000m² of stone through our trading partners Stocking natural stones such as:
N a tu ra l st o n e im p o rt e rs , wh o le sa le rs & re ta il e rs
LIMESTON E TR AV ERTI N E SPLIT FAC E SANDSTON E MAR BLE SLATE
Possibly the largest stone & tile showroom in the UK!
We have grown to become one of the largest natural stone importers in the whole of the UK, sourcing our stone directly from quarries all over the world including Brazil, Egypt, Turkey and India. Buying direct means we can offer you great prices without compromising on quality. Visit our showroom to see our extensive range of tiles in large setting, giving you a great example of how the stone will look in your home.
e l S i T e h T Fitton Oakehop
• We supply stone to tile companies across the country • Open 6 days a week & late night on Thursdays • Bespoke products available • Internal & External Stone • On site measure & design service available
Fitton Road, Wiggenhall St Germans. King’s Lynn PE34 3AX Tel: 01553 617540 | Web: www.fittonoaketiles.co.uk | Email: edd@fittonoake.co.uk
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KLmagazine December 2015
A world of inspiration in the centre of King’s Lynn From the classic to the contemporary, Inspired Furnishings has a huge collection of high quality, affordable ideas for every room in your home elebrating its fifth anniversary next year, Inspired Furnishings has brought a wonderful new approach to interiors to the centre of King’s Lynn with a fabulous range of quality home furnishings, accessories and gifts. The family-run and totally independent store is run by Jason Fysh and Richard Schofield, and was the (literally) inspired idea of Jason’s mother Linda. “Both Richard and I had plenty of experience working for a local backstreet furniture store,” says Jason, “but we found piling things on top of each other didn’t really do the furniture justice. At Inspired Furnishings, we’ve got enough space to display our collections at their very best – in room settings.” The spacious store on Norfolk Street
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KLmagazine December 2015
in King’s Lynn has a huge collection of furniture, gifts, accessories, candles and lighting – and in addition to having plenty of room to browse, it’s also packed with great ideas. In addition to well known British and European brands (many of them exclusive to King’s Lynn) Jason and Richard can even source special orders – and the stock changes weekly. “We do like to go the extra mile for our customers,” says Richard. “We’re always here for help and advice on matching different colours and fabrics, and we’ve even taken furniture to customers’ homes to see how it looks in place before they buy it!” With free local deliveries and free disposal of your old furniture, Inspired Furnishings can help you create a
stylish and contemporary look – for every room in your home. From complete dining room sets to distinctive coffee table ornaments, from three-piece suites to lamps, Inspired Furnishings has everything your interiors need – at the price you’re looking for!
information
Inspired Furnishings 123-124 Norfolk Street, King’s Lynn PE30 1AP Telephone: 01553 760707 E-mail: jasonfysh@gmail.com
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PICTURES: SUPPLIED
Local Life
ABOVE: Showing at the Lynn Museum until July 2016, the Art of the Mart exhibition offers a fascinating glimpse into the local origins of some of the most famous fairground attractions in the world.
Celebrating the lost art of King’s Lynn Mart Every year, thousands of people enjoy the thrills and excitement of the King’s Lynn Mart. Now, an exhibition at Lynn Museum charts the remarkable work of the man who started it all...
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he time-honoured worldfamous pastime of being wowed by the bright lights and mechanised thrills of the local funfair originates right here in King’s Lynn, and now we can learn all about it, thanks to a fascinating exhibition at the town’s museum. At one time, Frederick Savage’s fairground machinery was exported all over the world – and until recently, no funfair was complete without a Savage merry-go-round. The town is no stranger to the story of the Hevinghamborn Victorian fairground manufacturer – indeed, there’s even a statue of him in London Road proving
KLmagazine December 2015
just how much influence Savage’s work has had on the area. In July, Lynn Museum opened its doors to celebrate Savage’s legacy and the art, craft and design of King’s Lynn’s annual funfair (popularly known as ‘the Mart’) and their exhibition Art of the Mart is open until July next year. Savage started out as a farm labourer, working with farm machinery at the tender age of ten, and in 1850 set up his own business in King’s Lynn making and repairing agricultural implements. The town was soon put on the steamdriven map as the engineer and entrepreneur became the creator of the steam-powered merry-go-round.
“We know that Savage’s story is distinctive to King’s Lynn and we already have a permanent display at the museum,” says Oliver Bone, Curator at King’s Lynn Museum. Oliver and fellow curator Dayna Woolbright felt it would be a great addition to the museum to supplement the display. “We particularly wanted to draw on the arts and crafts of the Mart,” says Oliver, “and we had collections of craft materials that weren’t on display before – they’ve been very popular!” A visit to the exhibition will mean you’ll see an amazing collection of photographs and learn a variety of
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Local Life
ABOVE: Lynn Museum curators Oliver Bone and Dayna Woolbright (top right) have brought together a wonderful collection of models, sketches and memorabilia celebrating the groundbreaking fairground work and legacy of Frederick Savage (above left)
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The galloping cockerel is a particularly popular exhibit with visitors and the museum staff alike and it’s affectionately nicknamed the ‘giant chicken’ amongst the staff. “This particular piece of work was actually saved from destruction by the help of the Friends of King’s Lynn Museums,” says Oliver. “It’s a magnificent creation, but it was simply discarded after the factory closed.” Unsurprisingly, the exhibition has been really popular with locals and people travelling to visit King’s Lynn. “We’ve had lots of interest, and one occasion that really sticks in the mind is when we had a school in a couple of weeks ago,” recalls Oliver. “They were learning all about Savages and really having a great time, making cards, carousels and roundabouts!” The first six months of the exhibition have been a roaring success, so what’s to come in 2016? “We have various events linked to Art of the Mart throughout the year,” says Oliver. “We have a great talk planned that’s centred around the Victorian menageries and lots of public events and the exhibition is open from 10am5pm Tuesday through to Saturday.” What better way to celebrate the legacy of Frederick Savage than an exhibition of his work where it all began? “It’s a distinctive local story about a real local hero,” says Oliver. “He was so much appreciated that the statue of
him was built and unveiled while he was still alive – and he was even present at the unveiling.” As you enter the exhibition at Lynn Museum, you’re greeted by a portrait of Savage looking at you. “We like to think Frederick Savage is looking down on the whole exhibition,” says Oliver, “and I’m sure he’s doing so with a big smile on his face!”
PICTURES: SUPPLIED
stories relating to what’s on display – which ranges from a striking carved wooden cat’s head to a curved mirror that can make you look very fat or very thin, tall or short! “We were really keen to draw out the process of making the rides,” says Oliver. “There was one ride called ‘Sea on Land’ which really fascinated us – it was a boat and you could get on board and it would go up and down and round and round and people absolutely loved it at the time.” Included in the collection is a captivating smorgasbord of memories from the Mart of the past – there’s a painting of a galloping cockerel and also wooden figures of a cockerel and an ostrich that people could have ridden. There’s also a ride-on horse that visitors can actually try out! Lynn Museum had lots of the items currently on display in store, including some wooden patterns they’ve been able to show to the public for the first time. Also very popular in the exhibition is the actual bell used to signal the traditional opening of the mart, the bell which is still used to this day. “We also have a modern fairground horse named ‘The Mart’ which is very popular,” explains Oliver. “We even managed to find a collection of Victorian posters for travelling menageries, which came to King’s Lynn – and the posters have all the information about those animal shows, which is just wonderful.”
ART OF THE MART The Art of the Mart exhibition runs at the Lynn Museum, Market Street, King’s Lynn PE30 1NL until 2nd July 2016. Opening Times: Lynn Museum is open from Tuesdays to Saturdays (10am-5pm). Admission is free from now until March. Note the museum is closed between 24th-26th December and on New Year’s Day.
KLmagazine December 2015
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Tower Street, King’s Lynn PE30 1EJ Tel: 01553 762878 Web: www.economyflooringkl.co.uk KLmagazine December 2015
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When the festive season isn’t all merry and bright... For many people Christmas isn’t a time of celebration, and for them, King’s Lynn Samaritans provide a truly valuable service...
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hristmas can often be a time of increased pressures, stresses and problems we don’t experience at any other time of the year. Whilst the festive period can be a wonderful time of happiness, celebration and rejoicing, some people can find it more difficult than others. Often, all they need is someone to talk to. Of course, anyone who calls Samaritans does so in complete confidence and the calls are never discussed or shared. What follows are illustrations of the type of calls received by Samaritans over the festive period. As you read them, you’ll see how different these problems and pressures can be – and you’ll see that Samaritans are here to help every single day of the
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year with any issue affecting you and your life. “What am I supposed to do? I mean, I’m already working three jobs as it is, my disabled partner is unable to work, and I’m also his registered carer. Then there are the kids. Every day it’s something different from one catalogue or website or another. They watch TV for five minutes and they’re crazing for something else. Of course we want to give them what they ask for – but it’s not just the presents, is it? It’s the tree, the decorations, the wrapping paper – the list just goes on and on. They still believe in Santa and I don’t want to spoil it for them. But what can I do? Money only goes so far...”
“I’m the one that’s been dumped with everything again. Last year, I made it quite clear I wouldn’t entertain his mother and father and the brothers and sisters and kids. What do they think I am, a walking supermarket? And then she had the nerve to moan that I’d forgotten the parsnips – ‘and Jeff so enjoys the honey parsnips...’ So the other million vegetables on the table weren’t good enough? Why didn’t I buy a Yule Log? Why didn’t I make a trifle? Why is there no Stilton? Like I have nothing better to do! Perhaps I’ll start on the sherry while I peel the sprouts this year. I don’t care any more. I want to scream at her ‘don’t start on about the dog either – he lives here. And you don’t...’”
KLmagazine December 2015
“There are in this world, in every country, people who seem to be ‘ordinary’ but who turn out to be extraordinary. They give their total attention. They completely forget themselves. They listen and listen and listen, without interrupting. They have no message. They do not preach. They have nothing to sell. We call them Samaritans...” Dr Chad Varah, CH CBE Founder, Samaritans
“Christmas lights tangled in the loft, kids whining that they want the tree up, and if I see another mince pie I think I might scream. Then there’s the office party. Why am I going? I can’t stand the people I work with, yet I’m forking out nearly £50 for a meal, and then it’ll be rounds of drinks. The wife moaning about me going, complaining she’ll be stuck with ‘that woman who looks like that Lily Savage and who
thinks she’s better than everyone else’. No wonder I feel like I want to drink. Oh, and then I’ll get moaned at for being hungover in the morning. I just can’t win.” “I really don’t want to go home for the Christmas break. I love it at university. I’ve really tried hard to make a life for myself here, to make a fresh start so to speak. All my mates are dead nice. It’s my dad you see. I’ve never got on with him – he’s horrible, a real control freak. Mum’s frightened of him as well, and I know he hits her. I hate him, and the thought of having to sit pretending everything is OK makes me feel sick. I wish my Mum could come over and see me. It makes me laugh – last year he dressed up as Father Christmas and everyone thought he was so wonderful. Ha! If only they knew...”
l King’s Lynn Samaritans is currently running an awareness campaign on local radio, designed to reach the many people who may be going into the Christmas and New Year period for the first time without their loved ones. Listen out for it, and remember – a helping hand isn’t just for Christmas.
If you’d like to explore the possibility of volunteering with the King’s Lynn branch of the Samaritans, please get in touch by calling 01553 761616 or by sending an e-mail to kingslynn@samaritans.org
These are not real people, but these stories do reflect the very real pressures many people have to deal with at
information 26 Queen Street, King’s Lynn PE30 1HT Tel: 01553 761616 (local call charges apply Web: www.samaritans.org National Line: 116123 (this is free to call)
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King’s Lynn Samaritans/Charity Number 268748
“Don’t get me wrong – I love the decorations in the shops and it’s a lovely time of year. I remember how Christmas was years ago. Even if we didn’t have much, we were together as a family. Now that’s all gone. I’ve got no family left, and only the carer that comes to see me for company. I’m not one to moan and I know she’s busy, but she can’t stay for very long. I know there are others worse off than me, but it’s hard when it’s just you on your own. It would be so lovely to share Christmas with others and enjoy the company like I used to.”
Christmas. It’s important to remember that it’s perfectly okay to tell us you’re not having a good time, that you’re stressed out, scared, alone, or tired. You can talk to Samaritans at any time of the day on every single day of the year. We’re free to call on 116123 – and in accordance with our policy of strict confidentiality, the number won’t ever appear on your phone bill.
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KLmagazine December 2015
PICTURES: DAVE PORTER
Local Life
ABOVE: The inland port of Wisbech is full of ambition – for the town’s residents, for its many visitors and for local businesses
Looking forward to the bright future of Wisbech Famed for its Georgian architecture and historic personalities, Wisbech has its eyes firmly fixed on the future, with a number of exciting plans and initiatives designed to take the town forward...
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he largest town in the local government district of Fenland, affectionately known as the Capital of the Fens, is embarking on an exciting mission for growth and investment. Wisbech – brimming with elegant Georgian architecture and home of such illustrious historical figures as Thomas Clarkson and Octavia Hill – is now building on this heritage to make the town a better place to live, work and visit. It’s all part of a local plan adopted by the district in May 2014 that details how
KLmagazine December 2015
the area is expected to grow sustainably over the next 20 years – and beyond. With a population of over 20,000 and a long tradition as an important local trading centre, the future of the inland port of Wisbech is central to the plan. “This local plan is for growth, more house building and for more inward investment,” says Councillor David Oliver, Wisbech Cabinet Member for Fenland District Council. “We’re in a unique position as we’re close to the Norfolk coast but also on the doorstep of Peterborough, so we’re really
perfectly placed.” Wisbech is a natural stopping point on the A47 for visitors on their way to the beautiful Norfolk coastline, meaning it’s always been in a prime location for tourism – but it’s not all about sightseeing. “The plan is also concerned with social issues such as education attainment,” says David, “and the newly-opened Wisbech Campus, which is part of the College of West Anglia, is addressing social and migration inclusion.” Some of the main focuses of the plan
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PICTURE: DAVE PORTER
Local Life
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ABOVE: The North Brink at Wisbech is justly famous for its architectural beauty, but the town’s visual appeal isn’t just a thing of the past. Earlier this year, Peter’s Church Gardens and Wisbech Park were judged to be two of the best open spaces in the UK by the environmental charity Keep Britain Tidy and will be proudly flying their Green Flags through the coming year. It’s actually the eighth year running the town has been able to boast of a Green Flag award.
centre around reaching higher educational and skill levels, higher levels of employment, heightening transport links and supporting traditional local employment sectors to combat levels of deprivation in some areas of the town. One particularly exciting prospect for the town is the suggested reopening of the railway in Wisbech. “Cambridgeshire County Council has published a study for the reopening of the railway from March to Wisbech,” says David. “This is a really exciting time, as this would inevitably link the town to Cambridge, Peterborough, and as a result, London. That would be hugely beneficial to Wisbech.” The reopening of the railway plays a major part in the ambitions of the Wisbech 2020 plan, a 29-point charter
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that’s looking to tackle tough challenges in the town and improve the lives of those who live and work in Wisbech. Working together on the plan are local residents, businesses, voluntary groups and charities – led by the local MP, the County, District and Town councils. Joining them in offering help to the town is Anglia Ruskin University and even the Bishop of Ely. The National Trust is also involved, working with the Octavia Hill Birthplace Museum Trust on delivering a new heritage project which falls alongside many other exciting projects being proposed for Wisbech. It’s a real team effort, and the determination to make Wisbech a sought-after destination is a truly inspiring example of community spirit. The town centre not only boasts an
impressive heritage which will be brought back to life by the various projects proposed by the local plan and the Wisbech 2020 action plan, but also possesses a distinctive and historic waterfront, which sets Wisbech apart from other local towns and can be easily (but not literally!) built upon. “The port goes back many centuries and it’s the only one with an 80-tonne boatlift between the Humber and Essex,” says David. “We’re exploring and expanding on lifting boats out to repair – in this sense we have strong links with King’s Lynn as well, as the King’s Lynn Fishing Fleet bring their boats to us for repair.” Wisbech is also (together with King’s Lynn) part of Sail the Wash, a scheme to show visitors their sailing opportunities and great places to visit when they come to visit the Wash. “We really want to increase our appeal as a leisure boating destination,” says David, “and it’s important we continue to attract more people to
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Local Life
PICTURES: For the last 12 years, Wisbech’s famous Christmas Fayre has attracted thousands of visitors drawn to the event’s festive blend of tradition and local produce.
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the fayre to be on a Sunday so it could be on all day,” says Peter. “They’ll be pleased to learn that this year’s event will run throughout the High Street, Crescent, Horse Fair and the Market Place – so we’re covering an awful lot of ground!” Wisbech is making a point of supporting all things local, as all traders involved in the market are from the East Region – and local traders and local businesses are opening specially to run events throughout the day. “Elgoods come along and set up a stall to sell some locally-brewed refreshments,” says Peter, “and we have over 100 attractions and stalls booked to keep people entertained throughout the day.” Some of these attractions include an amazing Santa’s sleigh and reindeer, a skating rink and even live music. And visitors shouldn’t pass up the opportunity to enjoy the big Christmas Festival at Peckover House, which will be beautifully and suitably
decorated for the occasion from 11am. Wisbech has a long and proud history, and possesses almost 300 listed buildings. It’s also got a bright and exciting future ahead of it thanks to the efforts and visions of local people and the business community. And as for the present, it’s about to host one of the area’s biggest and most popular Christmas events. Why wouldn’t you want to pay this delightful town a visit?
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come to the port.” Overlooking the marina is the Boathouse Business Centre, which represents much of what Wisbech is confidently aiming for. It’s a managed office and conference facility supporting local people with small ventures. “It was built specifically to attract and support small and start-up local businesses to help them grow,” says David. “It’s been a great success and is about 75% full at the moment, with around 21 local businesses occupying the building.” The development plans aren’t the only reason Wisbech is celebrating this month – the town’s famous Christmas Fayre is about to attract thousands of festive visitors for the 12th year in a row. “It’s one of the key ‘Four Seasons’ events that we run in Fenland,” says Councillor Peter Murphy, who’s the Portfolio Holder for Events at Fenland District Council. “It’s heavily and proudly supported by a huge number of local people – the Lions, Rotary Club, Wisbech Castle, Red Barn Creative, the Horse Fair, the District Council and the Town Council have all worked closely together to make the event a success every year.” This year’s fayre is set to be the biggest event yet, and feedback from local people has seen the event move to a Sunday instead of its traditional Monday date – it will be held on Sunday December 13th from 10am to 3pm. “So many people told us they’d like
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PICTURES: THE MCKINNEY FOUNDRY / THE O’SHEA GALLERY / ANNIE TEMPEST
Local Arts
ABOVE: Annie Tempest at work – her artistic output ranges from popular cartoons (inset) to more emotive sculptural works (opposite)
Annie Tempest and the emotions of an artist... She says that her cartoons come from her head while her sculptures come from her heart. Emma Barnard talks to Annie Tempest about her successful and entirely self-taught life as a cartoonist and artist
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er cartoons have graced the pages of Country Life magazine and the Daily Mail for years and have become a brand in themselves, so it’s hard to believe that Norfolk-based artist and highlyacclaimed sculptor Annie Tempest never went to art school – indeed, she actually taught herself to draw. Although she was born in Zambia, Annie’s family returned to England when she was two years old, and in 1970, her father inherited the Broughton Hall Estate in Yorkshire – a move that has inspired her work for
KLmagazine December 2015
over 20 years. Annie was a medical secretary for six years before she taught herself to draw from books she borrowed from the Kensington and Chelsea Library in London at the age of 24. “I had absolutely no idea how to draw,” she says. “I didn’t even study it at O level!” At first, Annie felt her work wasn’t good enough and started to add captions to explain her pictures – the self-confessed workaholic says she worked “like a terrier” and persisted until she got better. “I just don’t ever stop,” she says. “It’s a
reason to get up in the morning, to learn the next thing. I think I’m a born communicator, because I’m dyslexic and use my art to convey things. I use my cartoons to share humour and my sculptures to share emotions – I want people to laugh and to feel.” It all started for Annie when she produced a Christmas gift book entitled How Green Are Your Wellies? which gained the attention of a national newspaper. “The Daily Mail picked me up off the back of that book and invited me to write a cartoon strip for them,” says Annie. “I then had to leave my job in the
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Local Arts
ABOVE: One of Annie Tempest’s Tottering-by-Gently cartoons, which have graced Country Life for over 20 years
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“I absolutely wanted to stay away from politics,” she adds. When she embarked on this wonderful journey, did Annie think her Country Life comic strip would still be going all these years later? “Absolutely not! It’s staggering!” she exclaims. “Although I must say that none of it would have been possible without the loyal help of Raymond O’Shea.” O’Shea is an art dealer that’s been dealing exclusively with Annie Tempest for over 20 years and has turned ‘Tottering-by-Gently’ into a brand with its own website, books, greetings cards – and even champagne! “He deals with all the things artists are rubbish at,” says Annie. “Which is mostly about how to market yourself – I listen to his wise advice and he always guides me in the right direction.” A few years ago, Annie also took up sculpting, something which she uses to explore deeper feelings. “My sculpture is more about body language,” she explains. “I use it to communicate emotion and I like to think people are viewing my sculptural work on a deeper level.” She has admitted in previous interviews that sculpture helped her through her son Freddy’s problems with addiction and his death of a heroin overdose in 2011 at the age of 18. Annie created a beautiful life-sized sculpture of Freddy called ‘Mourning Use’ back in 2013 at her studio and home near Fakenham. As with her drawing, Annie sought advice and guidance with sculpture. “I’ve found some wonderful teachers to learn from with my sculpting to help me along the way,” she says. “I love to
keep learning.” It’s a busy time for Annie as she’s been been working with the Reindeer Antiques Gallery in London to stage an exhibition of her original watercolours which runs until December 22nd – one not to be missed if you have the opportunity. Annie Tempest’s long and flourishing career has been based on hard work, humour, observation and emotion – and it’s no wonder she’s so successful.
PICTURES: THE O’SHEA GALLERY / ANNIE TEMPEST
NHS and really work hard at getting better at my cartoons – which I’m glad to say I did.” Indeed, after more than 30 years of life as a cartoonist, Annie admits she’s never had to supplement her earning with anything else, something she’s justifiably proud of. Annie’s cartoon strip The Yuppies was so popular it appeared regularly in the Daily Mail for seven years. “After the ‘Yuppie’ phase finished, the cartoon had to come to an end as well,” explains Annie. “I knew I had to think of something new that would stand the test of time. I thought to myself that I I had to find a way of making a living for the rest of my life!” She found the answer by literally drawing on her own experiences, and over twenty years later, Annie’s acclaimed cartoon strip ‘Tottering-byGently’ has been gracing the pages of Country Life magazine since 1993. Tottering-by-Gently is inspired by Annie’s younger life spent living at Broughton Hall. Set in the fictional county of North Pimmshire, in which the big house, Tottering Hall, is lived in by Lord and Lady Tottering (known in the strip as Daffy and Dicky) the cartoon strip has had a firm place in the nation’s hearts for years. “It’s all observational – Tottering is full of behaviours of the human condition and I want to raise a smile of recognition rather than a belly laugh,” says Annie. “My grandmother used to get the Giles annual every year and I wanted something like that, something that was part of the English way of life.” Annie describes ‘Tottering-by-Gently’ as being about families with the same problems as all families have.
For more information on Annie and her work, please visit the websites at www.tottering.com and www.osheagallery.com – and if you are in London this month, you’ll find the Reindeer Antiques Gallery at 81 Kensington Church Street, W8 4BG
KLmagazine December 2015
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KLmagazine December 2015
Tax Tips...
Internet trading: when is it a business? Discover if your profits from online selling leave you liable for taxation with the help of Stephenson Smart ollowing the rise of popular internet trading sites such as eBay, Gumtree and Amazon, HMRC has sought to clamp down on those failing to pay tax on their profits from online selling. Their last campaign to target online sellers raised more than £9 million in tax, and recent reports have suggested tax officials are once again stepping up their efforts to recoup unpaid tax. If you sell unwanted personal items occasionally, whether through an internet auction site, classified advertisements or at a car boot sale, you won’t be treated as trading for tax purposes. However, if your selling activities are more regular, you may well be classified as ‘in business’ and therefore become liable to tax. Over the years, the courts have developed nine ‘badges of trade’ which
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can be used to help determine whether someone is carrying on a trade. They include having a profit-seeking motive, the nature of the goods themselves (do they yield income or give enjoyment through pride of ownership?) and they also consider the number (and frequency) of transactions involved. The criteria also look at whether the items being sold have been repaired, modified or improved for an easier sale, and whether they were sold in a way that indicates trading – or whether the intention was to raise cash in an emergency. If money was borrowed to buy the goods and profits are used to help repay that loan you may well find yourself classed as a trader. Indeed, how the goods were acquired will also be taken into account – items received through inheritance or received as a
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KLmagazine December 2015
The Government’s new Help to Buy ISAs will be available from 1st December, providing tax-free savings accounts for first-time buyers wishing to save for a home. Savings will be limited to a monthly maximum of £200, with an opportunity to deposit an additional £1,000 when the account is first opened. The Government will provide a 25% bonus on the total amount saved (including interest), capped at a maximum of £3,000 on savings of £12,000, which is tax-free. Interest received on the account will also be tax-free. The bonus can only be put towards a first home located in the UK with a purchase value of £250,000 or less (£450,000 or less in London). An individual may only subscribe to one cash ISA per year, so an account holder can’t subscribe to a Help to Buy ISA and Cash ISA. Once an account is opened there’s no limit on how long an individual can save into it – and no time limit on when they can use their bonus.
gift are usually less likely to be the subject of trade. It’s also worth noting that the interval between purchase and sale can also be used as an indicator, as goods being traded on a business basis are usually bought then sold quickly. It can be a very fine line, and HMRC states that these ‘badges’ won’t be present in every case. It’s also worth noting that the presence (or absence) of a particular ‘badge’ is unlikely to provide a conclusive answer by itself to the question of whether or not a ‘trade’ is taking place. If you’re unsure, Stephenson Smart can review your online selling activities to determine whether or not they are liable to taxation. Should you be classified as being ‘in business’, you’ll need to register with HMRC as selfemployed, and we can also help you with this process – please contact us for advice.
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KLmagazine December 2015
Sandles goes further to bring you the very best! How the largest selection of used vehicles in Norfolk is carefully hand-picked and professionally prepared to showroom standard andles is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year, and it’s celebrating in truly grand style, looking set to break last year’s best-ever sales figures. This July alone, for example, the huge car supermarket at Pott Row just outside King’s Lynn sold over 200 vehicles – around seven a day! Much of the secret to Sandles’ continued success lies in the painstaking process every single car, van and commercial vehicle goes through before it reaches the forecourt. Each is carefully hand-picked by Ben Sandle and his father John (who founded the company back in 1975), who travel across the whole country by car and helicopter. “We don’t rely on online auctions or the opinions of others,” says Ben, himself celebrating 10 years with the family-run business. “Achieving a balance between quality and value is a real art, and it’s something that can only be done by seeing the vehicles in person.” On arrival, they’re put in the capable and experienced hands of Sandles’ General Manager Kevin Robinson, who
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appraises every vehicle, checking for any mechanical faults, identifying any necessary cosmetic work, and carrying out safety checks. Moving to Sandles’ on-site workshops, the vehicles are serviced by a team of fully-trained technicians, taken on a test drive, and given a thorough inspection to MOT standard. They’re then steam-cleaned ready for a complete and detailed valet by Sandles’ team of eight valeters – and due to the attention to detail received by every single vehicle, it can actually take a valeter an entire day before it reaches the Sandles standard. “You really can notice the difference,” says Ben. ”We believe we prepare our vehicles to a higher standard than most other used car dealers – and even many official franchised dealers!” After being photographed in a purposebuilt photo bay, the vehicles are finally ready for the forecourt – but even that’s not the end of the story. Once sold, every car and van is test driven again by Kevin
Robinson, who gives them the Sandles seal of approval before they receive a final PDI inspection. It’s a long and detailed process, but it’s one that results in a truly outstanding selection of used vehicles. “Over the years, we’ve ensured the customer service and overall buying experience from Sandles has improved,” says Ben. “We’re in a perfect out-of-town location for test drives, and we’re currently preparing to have a fantastic selection of over 500 cars ready for January!” For existing customers familiar with the company’s high standards and for new customers looking to discover the very best in used vehicles, there’s probably never been a better time to visit Sandles.
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Local Arts
ABOVE: Thought Fox II and The Timid Hare (opposite) are typically charming works by the Norfolk-based artist Nicola Hart (below)
Combining a love of art with a passion for wildlife When she moved to Norfolk ten years ago, artist Nicola Hart found a natural outlet for her lifelong love of painting in some of the county’s most iconic animals, particularly the hare...
KLmagazine December 2015
that I focused on my painting,” she says. “I started with boats but soon moved onto wildlife after spending time walking around – I’d never seen a hare before I moved here and they fascinated me!” Despite always being creative, it wasn’t until Nicola received some praise in art class as a teenager that she realised she had a real talent for the subject. “It wasn’t until I got an A in art class at high school that I realised,” she recalls. “No-one else got that mark and it made me think ‘I must be good!’” After receiving that morale-boosting grade, Nicola started painting at home in her own time, and initially thought she’d like to work in theatre design. “This was a period in my life where I
PICTURES: NICOLA HART
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en years ago, artist Nicola Hart had never seen a hare in the flesh – but now she paints them for a living. After moving to Norfolk a decade ago, the artist who’d been painting since her teenage years found a passion for local wildlife. Nicola’s distinctive wildlife paintings have unique spots of colour and elements of collage to ensure you always see something different in each piece of work. Studying for degree in Fine Art at the London Art School in Kennington gave Nicola the opportunity to focus on traditional surface techniques. This area of study led to her current interest in collage and surface patterns. “I have two children and it wasn’t really until I moved to North Norfolk
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PICTURES: NICOLA HART
Local Arts
ABOVE: Nicola’s shared passions of art and Norfolk’s wildlife are combined in works such as Boxing in the Beet (left), Fox and Dog Rose (right) and Like an Owl in Lace (below)
really started to think about surface techniques, different colours and collages and also textures,” says Nicola. Creativity is definitely in the blood of Nicola’s family – her sister designs and makes wedding dresses and ballroom dance dresses (she designed some of the first ever seen on Strictly Come Dancing!) and her brother designs and builds light boxes. Since moving to North Norfolk, the coast has really inspired Nicola’s work and she believes that’s largely down to the diversity of the area. “The beach is a complete contrast to the common I walk on, and then there are the farmer’s fields, the seashore and woodland – there are so many different things to see,” she says. “I work really intuitively, and have to admit that a lot of things are mistakes. I start working and things tend to develop!” This form of creative process is inspired by Nicola’s long walks around her area. “It all depends on what piece of collage or colour I pick up on a walk,” she says. “I literally pick things up and ideas blossom from there – and every day there’s something different.” The hare has played a really strong part in Nicola’s work and it’s become her favourite subject.
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“I recently painted a ‘summer hare’ with lots of pink in it and actually finished it in a couple of hours,” she says, “but that’s only because I really knew where I was going with it.” She’s now been painting animals for five years after drawing on inspiration from another artist. “I’ve been really inspired by a Kate Leiper exhibition at Blickling Hall – the way she draws animals eyes is the key,” explains Nicola. “If you get the eyes right, you get the animal right. The way Kate paints the eyes of animals is amazing, and it inspired me to try myself.” It’s clear that moving to Norfolk has transformed Nicola’s life as an artist, and she feels she’s perfectly placed for constant stimulation for her work. “I think my favourite part of Norfolk is Old Hunstanton, the quiet bit past the golf course, away from everyone,” she says. “I love sitting in the sand dunes without being disturbed and taking in the big skies above me. I know a lot of artists say this, but it really is a different light in Norfolk to anywhere else.” Nicola describes the county as being like her childhood in Surrey in the 1970s, when people didn’t rush around and really took the time to talk to each other.
The future is looking particularly bright for Nicola, and she has a busy time ahead of her in 2016. From May 28th to June 12th, people will be able to go on a trail around various Norfolk artists’ studios as part of the popular Norfolk and Norwich Open Studios scheme. “People will be able to see my work at any time of the day during this period at Fineline Frames in Creake Abbey,” says Nicola. “I’m really excited to be a part of the scheme this year – it’s a fantastic opportunity.” For someone who’d never even seen a hare ten years ago, Nicola Hart has grabbed Norfolk country living with both hands and transformed it into a flourishing career of beautiful wildlife art.
For more information and examples of Nicola’s work, you can visit her website at www.harts-art.co.uk.
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The Last Word
WildWestNorfolk Michael Middleton’s
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henever I grumble about being sent on Christmas-related chores (and there are plenty of them, believe me), Mrs. Middleton always asks me to imagine how Father Christmas must feel. Just think, she says, he has to travel around the whole world on Christmas Eve delivering presents to all the good boys and girls, and he has to do it pretty much all by himself. And I bet he doesn’t grumble about it. I’ve never really given it much thought to be honest, but the sheer scale of the task was brought to my attention a few weeks ago when a friend of mine in Bristol e-mailed me a copy of a report that had recently appeared in a respectable scientific journal. It was called a Scientific Inquiry into the Existence of Santa Claus, and if nothing else it demonstrated in mindnumbing detail just how much time some people have on their hands. The report started off by saying that although there are around two billion children in the world, Father Christmas isn’t recognised by all religions (there’s a clue in the name), so he actually only has to visit about 15% of them. That’s still 378 million children to see to, however, and with an average of 3.5 children per household, it means Santa has to call at almost 92 million homes. Assuming every house contains at least one well-behaved child, that is. It’s a tight schedule. Even though Father Christmas has 31 hours to play with (thanks to different time zones and the rotation of the earth), he needs to visit 822.6 homes per second. And it’s not simply a case of dropping a few parcels on the doorstep. 114
At every house, Santa has to park the sleigh, jump down the chimney, fill the stockings, place the remaining presents under the tree, eat whatever snacks have been left for him, return to the sleigh and move on to the next house – all in a thousandth of a second. And all he has to help him is a team of eight reindeer – nine if you count the one with the funny nose. Now, at the moment, there’s no known species of reindeer that can fly, but assuming they exist at the North Pole, they must be pretty formidable creatures. To cover the required 75½ million miles (based on the assumption that all the houses are evenly spaced around the world) Santa’s sleigh needs to travel at 650 miles per second. That’s 3,000 times the speed of sound, and makes the fastest man-made vehicle on earth (at only 27.4 miles per second) paltry by comparison. Donner and Blitzen & Co are remarkable deer indeed, especially since a conventional reindeer can only reach speeds of 15 miles per hour at best. The poor things are pulling a fair amount of weight as well. If every child in the world got nothing more than a medium-sized set of Lego, the sleigh behind them would have to carry around 321,300 tons, not counting Santa (who’s no lightweight himself). Since conventional reindeer can’t pull much more than 300lbs, you don’t need to be Stephen Hawking to realise that even if one of these super flying reindeer could pull ten times that amount, a team of eight simply aren’t going to do it. In fact, Father Christmas would need a team of 214,200 reindeer pulling the sleigh, which would increase the total payload of the operation to 353,430
tons. Which is roughly four times the weight of the mammoth cruise liner MS Queen Elizabeth. Travelling at 650 miles per second, such a load would create enormous amounts of air resistance, heating up the reindeer in much the same fashion as spacecraft re-entering the earth’s atmosphere. This isn’t, of course, very good news for reindeer, flying ones or otherwise. In short, they would burst into flames almost instantaneously, creating deafening sonic booms in their wake as the entire sleigh, pile of presents and reindeer team vaporise within 4.26 thousandths of a second. Not a very happy Christmas at all, in fact. Such a scenario certainly puts my grumbles about hand-delivering Christmas cards to our neighbours into perspective. You’ll be glad to know that the best efforts of the number-crunchers haven’t managed to dampen my festive spirit. I’ll still put my stocking up on Christmas Eve, and somehow I’m sure it will be filled with goodies the following morning. You see, that’s the secret of Christmas. It has (happily) nothing to do with science, and everything to do with magic. Happy Christmas!
KLmagazine December 2015
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