KL Magazine October 2010 by KL Magazine

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NEW!

ISSUE 1 OCTOBER 2010 FREE

magazine

COMPETITION

£400 OF GREAT PRIZES TO WIN! HALLOWEEN

A special look at the Ghosts of King’s Lynn INTERIORS

An exclusive tour of Cley Windmill GARDENS

How volunteers are saving the gardens of Oxburgh Hall LIFESTYLE

WE MEET THE MAYOR OF KING’S LYNN

“West Norfolk has so much to oﬀer...”

FOOD

FASHION

EVENTS

LOCAL LIFE

ISSN 2044-7965

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MORE THAN JUST A KITCHEN SHOWROOM

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f you’re planning a new kitchen, you’ll find Style Kitchens have all the right ingredients. As a family-run business, we offer everything from a FREE professional design and complete estimating to an expert and experienced fitting service that’s second to none. Whether you’re looking for a classic cottage kitchen or an ultramodern contemporary look, Style Kitchens have a stunning range of options to choose from and some truly innovative storage solutions. Give us a call today or pop into the showroom where we’ll be happy to discuss your project with you. If you’re looking for the perfect kitchen, you’ll find Style Kitchens have all the right ingredients – at a genuinely affordable price. NOTE: All pictures on this page were taken in our King’s Lynn showroom!

9 High Street, King’s Lynn (next to Debenhams) Tel: 01553 767519 Web: www.stylek.co.uk

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editorial 01553 601201

editor@klmagazine.co.uk Eric Secker Charlotte Thorneycroft Lydia Shreeve Ann Weaver Alex Dallas Christine Glass Michael Middleton Ian Ward

advertising 01553 601201 sales@klmagazine.co.uk Grant Murray Carla Willows Rebecca Drew KL magazine cannot accept responsibility for unsolicited submissions, manuscripts and photographs. While every care is taken, prices and details are subject to change and KL magazine takes no responsibility for omissions or errors. We reserve the right to publish and edit any letters. All rights reserved. KL magazine 37 Broad Street, King’s Lynn, Norfolk PE30 1DP

Welcome! T

hanks for picking up the very first issue of KL magazine – and we’re sure you’ll find it as entertaining, informative and useful as we intended it to be. There’s so much going on in King’s Lynn and West Norfolk at the moment that it seems there’s no better time for us to have our own magazine promoting everything that’s good about life in the area. Thanks to everyone (you know who you are!) who helped us produce this first edition – and everyone willing to be involved in next month’s issue! We’d really like to hear your news and stories as well – so whether you want to get something oﬀ your chest, recommend somewhere for other readers to go or something diﬀerent for them to enjoy, please contact us. If you’ve lived in King’s Lynn all your life, we hope you’ll find something interesting in the magazine that you didn’t know before – and if you’re relatively new to the area we know you’ll find there’s a lot more to life in West Norfolk . We had a lot of fun putting this first issue together – so we hope you find reading it equally enjoyable. See you again next month! THE KL TEAM

Contact us at KL magazine, 37 Broad Street, King’s Lynn, Norfolk PE30 1DP TEL: 01553 601201 E-MAIL: features@klmagazine.co.uk KLmagazine October 2010

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Contents

october 2010

local life 7-11

WHAT’S ON Forthcoming events in West Norfolk

22-25 HOMES & INTERIORS Inside the fabulous Cley Windmill 26-29 GARDENS Preserving the gardens of Oxburgh Hall 35-41 FOOD & DRINK Recipes, reviews and recommendations 30-33 FASHION Great new looks for the Autumn

30-33 LOCAL LEGENDS A timely look at the ghosts of King’s Lynn

local people 12-15 CAPTAIN VANCOUVER The life and times of a local hero 16

THE BIG INTERVIEW KL magazine meets the Mayor

ARTS & CULTURE We talk to local artist Cecilia Evans

MEET THE HEAD Alison Ross of the King’s Lynn Academy

60-63 SPORT The captains at King’s Lynn Golf Club

kl regulars 42-45 EXPLORER Showcasing the very best of the region 46

HEALTH & BEAUTY How to enjoy a 30-minute manicure

PETS Help and adivce with local vet Alex Dallas

WILD WEST NORFOLK Michael Middleton’s lighter view of things

KLmagazine October 2010

26 22

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KLmagazine October 2010

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WHAT’S ON

October

selected by Charlotte Thorneycroft

2nd Cheese, Wine and Chutney Oxburgh Hall, Oxborough 2.30–4pm As part of the British Food Fortnight celebrations, try a selection of locally-produced cheeses and chutneys with accompanying wines, in the hall’s tearoom. These items (and more!) will be available on the menu at varying prices. www.nationaltrust.org.uk

3rd

9th

Local Produce Show Stow Hall Gardens, Stow Bardolph 11am–5pm Stow Hall Gardens host the Autumn Flower, Vegetable & Produce Show 2010. A fun show with the emphasis on taking part rather than serious competition, set in the magnificent gardens at Stow Hall. A chance to show oﬀ your gardening, culinary and craft skills. Entry forms and details available from the gardens, or by ringing 01366 382162

Vintage Clothing & Collectors Fair Dragon Hall, King Street, Norwich 10am-5pm A fabulous collection of around 25 stands on 2 floors filled with vintage fashion, textiles, kitchenalia, collectables, accessories, historic re-worked items, and much more – all in a superbly restored setting. Light refreshments available, served on (what else?) vintage tea ware. £2 entry and free for accompanied children under 16. For details see www.littlevintageloverfair.co.uk

24th

10th Local Artist Exhibition Silverwood Garden Centre, Long Sutton 11am-4pm The very best of the region’s artists and designer/makers will be exhibiting at this delightful event held in the Garden Room of Long Sutton’s award-winning garden centre. Families are welcome and it’s the ideal opportunity to browse and buy unique and original work. Contact: 01406 364364

18th

11th A PSYCHIC EVENING King’s Lynn Town Hall An evening of clairvoyance with famous psychic medium Stephen Holbrook Tickets: £15 Contact 01553 817336

Farmers Market Visitor Centre, Sandringham 10am-3pm Held on the last Sunday of every month, the market is attended by a selection of up to 20 local producers oﬀering a real taste of local food and drink. Sandringham is dogfriendly, a great place to bring the family for a picnic, and the parking is free. What more could you want? For details, contact David Reilly on 07733 182395

Halloween Half Term (10am-5pm) Church Farm, Stow Bardolph Halloween Half Term runs until 31st – with fun and spookiness for all the family. Following the success of Pumpkin Mania in 2009, Church Farm will be decorating for Halloween half term again. Keep checking the website to find out what the theme will be! Normal admission prices apply. See: www.churchfarmstowbardolph.co.uk

24th TouchWood Exhibition Dragonfly Exhibition Centre, Wayland House, Watton 10am-4pm (1pm on Saturdays) Running until the 31st, TouchWood is an exciting new exhibition featuring the work of East Anglian artists. Work will include driftwood sculptures, reclaimed pine, wood turning, wooden games and sea defence timbers. Free admission. Contact Susan Hollingworth on 01953 880205

If you’ve got an event to publicise, send the details to features@klmagazine.co.uk KLmagazine October 2010

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ADVERTISER’S ANNOUNCEMENT

r 14th Octobe

ecember From 25th D

ABOVE: An unforgettable evening of ballet with the Russian State Ballet Academy comes to the Corn Exchange on October 14th with the classic Swan Lake

Taking centre stage in West Norfolk... We take a look backstage at King’s Lynn Corn Exchange ber 14th Novem

tanding proudly amongst the historical buildings on the town’s Tuesday Market Place is King’s Lynn Corn Exchange. It was built in 1854 with a Baroque facade featuring Ceres, the goddess of corn. Originally where local farmers gathered to trade their corn, it’s now home to a much more glamorous programme of concerts, comedy and entertainment. Since a major refurbishment in 1996, the Corn Exchange has transformed into the most beautiful venue including an impressive foyer area with commissioned art works, expressing the purpose and location of the building. e Corn Exchange is without doubt the entertainment life-blood of

King’s Lynn, hosting big name performances from the likes of Paul Merton, Alistair McGowan, Morrissey and Joan Collins. e venue continues to go from strength to strength and this year stages the town’s first professionally produced pantomime. “It’s a major development for the venue,” explains Marketing Manager, Darren Cross. “In the theatre world, not only does a successful pantomime help support other more ambitious programming, it is also quite often the first taste of theatre for many young children. In terms of our audiences of the future, it’s a crucial first step.” Produced by Jordan Productions, who have a firm reputation for quality story-lead pantomime, Jack and the

ABOVE: Rick Wakeman looks forward to an evening at the Corn Exchange on November 14th

Beanstalk will star John Altman best known for his role as Nasty Nick Cotton in EastEnders, as the evil Fleshcreep. e number of shows being staged by the Corn Exchange is

also on the increase – up around 25% this year. Partly down to pantomime, but also down to the venue increasingly accommodating shows for longer runs.

KLmagazine October 2010

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Winter Highlights October Sun 10th – An Evening of Clairvoyance with Tony Stockwell Tue 12th – Tango Pasión: Último Tango

Tue 9th – Tell Me On A Sunday starring Claire Sweeney Wed 10th – Jethro: Too Late To Grow Up! Thu 11th – Joe Longthorne

Wed 13th – Maximum Rhythm ‘n’ Blues

Fri 12th – The ELO Experience

Thu 14th – Rudolf Nureyev Russian State Ballet Academy: Swan Lake

Sun 14th – An Evening with Rick Wakemam

Fri 15th – The Sensational 60’s Experience

Tue 16th-Wed 17th – That’ll Be The Day (brand new 2010 Christmas Show)

Sat 16th – Vampires Rock Thu 18th – The Stylistics Sun 17th – Mugenkyo Taiko Drummers

Fri 19th – Sally Morgan: Psychic Sally On The Road

Thu 21st – Comedy Club Sun 21st – Joe Brown Fri 22nd – The Winner Takes It All Sat 23rd – Beyond The Barricade (brand new 2010 show)

Tue 23rd – Shakespeare 4 Kidz: A Midsummer Night’s Dream Wed 24th – Sgt Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Show Thu 25th – Comedy Club (adults only) Fri 26th – Desperado: The Heart Of The Eagles Sat 27th – Christmas With The Rat Pack

ctober From 26th O

December Thu 9th to Sun 2nd January Pantomime! Jack and the Beanstalk

Tue 26th-Sat 30th – Zippos Circus November Tue 2nd – An Evening with Blake Thu 4th – Charlie Landsborough

January 2011 Sat 15th All Star American Superslam Wrestling Tue 25th-Thu 27th January – The Chinese State Circus - Mulan

Fri 5th – Joe Pasquale Mon 7th to Sat 12th March – Annie

“In the early days of the Corn Exchange, we were only able to take shows for a single night,” said Darren. “However, as we’ve grown audiences and developed a reputation with promoters, we’ve been able to extend the runs. Over the next few months, we have Zippos Circus and a great production of the musical Annie both with us for a week.” And what about other entertainment highlights this season? One of the greatest classical ballets, Swan Lake, produced by the Rudolf Nureyev

KLmagazine October 2010

Russian State Ballet Academy, takes to the stage this month. November sees concerts from classical-pop crossover sensations, Blake and an evening of music and humour with the legendary Rick Wakeman. Christmas will be packed full of traditional panto fun, before the New Year kicks oﬀ with a visit from the Lion Dancers, Shaolin Warriors and acrobats of the Chinese State Circus. is goes to show, the Corn Exchange is growing its reputation all the time attracting more and more big name shows.

Face to Face

Darren Cross

Marketing Manager King’s Lynn Corn Exchange

KL: You’ve returned to the Corn Exchange after nine years – what’s changed? DC: e main change has been the redevelopment of the town centre and the Vancouver Quarter. When I was first here, there were so many empty shops and much of the heart of the town was missing. ankfully, that’s no longer the case. KL: What are your plans for the coming year? DC: e main focus – certainly over the next few months – is panto. We’re all looking forward to plenty of seasonal silliness and are excited about bringing the first professionally-produced panto to the town. Beyond that, it’s about growing the Corn Exchange’s live programme and bringing in new and larger audiences to experience it. KL: How important is the Corn Exchange to the area? DC: Very – not only is the Corn Exchange the major venue in this part of the region, drawing from King’s Lynn and a massive rural surroundng area, it’s also important in supporting the night-time economy. People come to see a show, and they’ll probably then go for a meal or a drink and then take a taxi home. eatre visits provide custom for many other local businesses, which is very important in the current climate.

KL: How can local people support the Corn Exchange? DC: It’s simple – buy tickets! And then buy some more for friends and family – even the next door neighbours! KL: What’s coming up that we can’t aﬀord to miss? DC: As usual, there’s a packed season with something for everyone, but my personal favourite is An Evening with Rick Wakeman. From progressive rock god to Grumpy Old Man to comedy compere, it’s bound to be an evening packed full of amusing anecdotes and great music. KL: What local talent should we be looking out for? DC: We’re hoping to see some local talent on stage at the Corn Exchange’s first professional pantomime this Christmas as we’ve just held local auditions for dancers to be part of the cast. KL: Do you think live performance still has a place in a world of 3D cinema and HD television? DC: Absolutely! ere’s nothing quite like a live performance. Television and film tend to be rather impersonal media. Live performance is a two-way thing between performer and audience. You can’t interact with a comedian on telly – but you can at a live comedy club!

Details

KING’S LYNN CORN EXCHANGE Tuesday Market Place, King’s Lynn Norfolk PE30 1JW Tel (Box Office): 01553 764864 Web: www.kingslynncornexchange.co.uk

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What’sOn October 2nd–3rd October KL magazine has finally arrived and in true local style we’re giving out the first edition of the magazine in the heart of King’s Lynn – the Vancouver Quarter! magazine

16th–17th October Zippo’s Circus The circus is in town, fun for all the family with Zippo’s circus!

9th–10th October Fire Safety Norfolk Fire Service comes to the streets of the Vancouver Quarter to help shoppers discover exactly what’s inside those big red trucks! Also discussing fire safety and giving top tips on safety in the run-up to November 5th. 23rd–24th October Old Lynn Exhibition The Memories of Lynn – a touring exhibition will be visiting the Vancouver Quarter to let shoppers discover King’s Lynn, old and new!

It’s Halloween!

Come and enjoy the spooky celebrations in the Vancouver Quarter on October 31st: trick or treating, fancy dress, face painting and a colouring competition – and if you’re in costume, you’ll receive a free photograph courtesy of Snappy Snaps, King’s Lynn!

www.vancouverquarter.com

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WHAT’S ON

Happy Hall ween All treats with no tricks – Halloween is here again, bringing a host of frightfully entertaining frolics and ghoulish games to West Norfolk. So why not give the children (and yourself!) a treat and take them to one of these spooky local spectaculars...

Oxburgh Hall On 28th October you can visit Oxburgh Hall (right) near Downham Market and experience Things That Go Bump in the Night – an evening full of eerie goings on in this fabulous setting. Geoff Hales will be presenting a variation of his Victorian Evening with some special ghostly items, including Henry Irving’s The Bells and Charles Dickens’ The Signalman. Be advised that the evening is not suitable for children under the age of 10. This is a very popular event, and booking is essential – call 01366 328258 for more details. Tickets from £10.

Holkham Hall Holkham Hall (right) near Wellsnext-the-Sea is holding a special Halloween Ghost Hunt on Saturday 30th and Sunday 31st October between 10am and 5pm. They also dare you to enter the Bygones Museum, with its spookily-lit rooms and creepy corridors. And if you can, will you take it one step further and be brave enough to put your hand in the ‘trick or treat’ boxes? £4 for adults and only £2 for children (5-16). For more details, call 01328 710277.

Competition!

For your chance to win a family ticket (2 adults, 2 children) to Church Farm, Stow Bardolph simply answer this question and send along with your details to Church Farm Competition at KL magazine, 37 Broad Street, King’s Lynn, Norfolk: What was the name of the Halloween Event held at Church Farm in 2009?

KLmagazine October 2010

Stow Bardolph There’ll be plenty of Halloween fun at Church Farm, Stow Bardolph (right) as the spooky celebrations run from Monday 18th October to Sunday 31st October (10am until 5pm every day). This year’s theme is ‘Pirates of Church Farm’ and there’ll be plenty of swashbuckling fun for all the family – whether you’re playing on a treasure island, digging for buried treasure or making a pirate’s hat. There’ll be fancy dress competitions too as Church Farm aims to make this year’s event even better than last year’s hugely successful Pumpkin Mania. For more details call 01366 382162

See page 50 for a special feature on the ghosts of King’s Lynn!

Dereham Hop on board a real ghost train on 30th October when the MidNorfolk Railway (right) hold their popular annual ‘Halloween Train’ event. There’ll be professional entertainers, a fancy dress competition and lots to do for all ages. Colouring competitions and story-telling will keep even the youngest ghost hunters amused. For more details, contact Mid-Norfolk Railway at Station Road in Dereham on 01362 690633.

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HISTORY

KLmagazine October 2010

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So just who was Captain Vancouver? His statue is one of the most iconic sights in King’s Lynn and the town’s shopping centre is named after him. But just who was Captain Vancouver? Christine Glass looks at the life of Lynn’s most famous son...

veryone’s heard of Francis Drake, James Cook and Walter Raleigh, but it seems odd that the name of one of Britain’s greatest explorers and navigators doesn’t immediately spring to mind. His statue in front of the Custom House is one of the landmark sights of King’s Lynn, and the shopping centre named after him is visited by thousands of people every day. However, very few people know very much at all about the life – and achievements – of George Vancouver. He was born in King’s Lynn on June 22nd, 1757, the son of John Jasper Vancouver (who was the town’s Deputy Customs Oﬃcer for 22 years) and Bridget Berners. His nautical career started early when he was appointed to a position under James Cook at 15 years old. It was here that Vancouver first enjoyed a

KLmagazine October 2010

taste of exploration, serving as a midshipman aboard HMS Resolution on Cook’s second voyage from 1772–1775 searching for Terra Australis. He also accompanied Cook’s third voyage from 1776–1778 aboard HMS Discovery and participated in the first European sighting and exploration of the Hawaiian Islands. Upon his return to Britain in 1779, Vancouver was commissioned as a lieutenant and posted aboard the sloop HMS Martin surveying coastlines. Vancouver’s career was interrupted by the Nootka Crisis of 1789 – Britain and Spain came close to open war over ownership of the Nootka Sound and the right to colonise the Pacific Northwest coastline, and as the two sides prepared for conflict, Vancouver joined the crew of the HMS Courageux. When the first Nootka Convention ended

the crisis peacefully in 1790, Vancouver was given command of HMS Discovery (he was 33 at the time) to take possession of Nootka Sound and to survey the coasts. Departing England with two ships in April 1791, Vancouver now commanded an expedition charged with exploring the Pacific region – in its first year, the expedition travelled to Cape Town, Australia, New Zealand, Tahiti, and China, collecting botanical samples and surveying coastlines along the way. Proceeding to North America, Vancouver then followed the coasts of present-day Oregon and Washington northward until he entered the Strait of Juan de Fuca (between Vancouver Island and the Washington state mainland) on April 29th, 1792. His orders included a survey of every inlet and outlet on the west coast of the mainland, all the way north to Alaska. Most of this work was

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PICTURE: ROYAL BC MUSEUM

HISTORY

ABOVE: A full-scale replica of the stern section of Vancouver’s ship Discovery in the Royal British Columbia Museum

done from small boats powered by both oars and sail because manoeuvering larger sail-powered vessels in uncharted waters was generally impractical and dangerous. Vancouver became the first European to enter Burrard Inlet on June 13th, 1792, and he named it after his friend Sir Harry Burrard (it’s the main harbour area of the city of Vancouver beyond Stanley Park). He then surveyed the whole of Howe Sound and Jervis Inlet over nine days before returning to Point Grey (the present day location of the University of British Columbia) on his 35th birthday. Here he unexpectedly met a Spanish expedition and was ‘mortified’ (in his own words) to learn they already had a crude chart of the Strait of Georgia based on a Spanish voyage the year before, under command of Francisco de Eliza. For three weeks the two expeditions worked together exploring the Georgia Strait and the Discovery Islands area before sailing separately towards Nootka Sound. After the summer surveying season ended Vancouver went to Nootka in November 1792. It was the region’s most important harbour, and Vancouver’s sensitive mission was to reclaim the British

ABOVE: In The Caneing in Conduit Street (1796), famous satirist James Gillray caricatured Pitt’s streetcorner assault on Captain Vancouver

buildings and lands returned by the Spanish from claims by Francisco de Eliza for the Spanish crown. The Spanish commander, Juan Francisco Bodega y Quadra, was very cordial and he and Vancouver exchanged the maps they’d made, but no agreement was reached – so they decided to await further instructions. In the spirit of these improved foreign relations, they decided to name the large island on which Nootka was now proven to be located as Quadra and Vancouver Island. Years later, as Spanish influence declined, the name was shortened to simply Vancouver Island. Vancouver now sailed south along the coast of Spanish Alta California, visiting native villages along the way and spendng

the winter exploring the Sandwich Islands (the contemporary islands of Hawaii). At the start of 1793, he returned to British Columbia and proceeded further north, but because the more northern parts of the coast had already been explored by Cook he sailed south, hoping to be reunited with Bodega y Quadra and fulfill his territorial mission, but the Spaniard wasn’t there. Vancouver spent the winter in the Sandwich Islands again before sailing to Cook Inlet in early 1794 (the northernmost point of his exploration) and from there he followed the coast south to Baranov Island, which he had visited the year before. He then finally set sail for Great Britain by way of Cape Horn, returning in September 1795, thus completing a circumnavigation.

KLmagazine October 2010

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ABOVE: The 1980 commemorative statue to Captain Vancouver by Vancouver-based artist Alan Chung Hung

His voyages had been significant and important – Vancouver determined that the Northwest Passage didn’t exist at the latitudes that had long been suggested, and his charts of the American northwest coast were so accurate they served as the key reference for coastal navigation for generations. Despite that, Vancouver faced diﬃculties when he returned home to England. He immediately set about preparing the record of his explorations, but events overtook him. The politically well-connected naturalist Archibald Menzies complained his servant had been pressed into service during a shipboard emergency, sailing master Joseph Whidbey had a competing claim for pay as expedition astronomer; and Thomas Pitt (whom Vancouver had disciplined for numerous infractions and eventually sent home in disgrace), challenged him to a duel. Vancouver was attacked in the newspapers and actually assaulted on the street by Pitt. His career was eﬀectively at an end and he died at Petersham in Surrey on the May 10th, 1798 at the age of 40, less than three years after completing his voyages and expeditions. His brother John, assisted by Captain Puget, published the complete record in 1798, and his modest grave lies in St. Peter’s churchyard, Petersham, Surrey. KL

KLmagazine October 2010

The lasting legacy of Captain Vancouver...

n addition to the statue we all know and love so well outside King’s Lynn Custom House, there are many other memorials and lasting reminders of George Vancouver. Various locations have been named after the Captain, notably: – Vancouver Island, Canada – Hudson’s Bay Company’s 1825 Fort Vancouver – Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada – Vancouver, Washington, USA – Vancouver Peninsula, Australia – Mount Vancouver (the eighth highest mountain in Canada) – Vancouver Bay in Jervis Inlet (named after him when Captain Richards resurveyed the area in 1860) – Vancouver Maritime Museum

Other statues of Vancouver are located in front of Vancouver City Hall and on top of the dome of the British Columbia Parliament Buildings.

Gate to the Northwest Passage is a commemorative statue by Vancouver artist Alan Chung Hung commissioned by Parks Canada and installed at the mouth of False Creek in Vanier Park near the Vancouver Maritime Museum in 1980. Canada Post issued a 37-cent stamp inscribed Vancouver Explores the Coast on March 17th, 1988. It was one of a set of four stamps issued to honour the exploration of Canada. The George Vancouver Rose was named in his honour and hybridized by Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada.

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PERSONALITY

KLmagazine October 2010

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Big

the

interview

Each month we’ll be speaking to a notable resident about their life in West Norfolk, and we thought we’d start at the very top by talking to Zipha Christopher, the current Mayor of King’s Lynn and West Norfolk... KL magazine: Can you explain the traditional role of the Mayor? THE MAYOR: The Mayor is the 1st Citizen of the Borough, the face of the Borough to the general public and a representative for outside engagements. The robes are a large part of the traditional role and are worn when I’m on oﬃcial business. KL magazine: Can you describe your typical day? THE MAYOR: My car arrives early to take me to my first engagement, which may be a meeting, an event opening or representing the Borough in another form. Typically most events involve a speech of some kind which I write myself and sometimes I can have three or four engagements in one day. On a few occasions I travel to evening appointments and don’t return home until 10.30pm – my days are always very busy. KL magazine: When did you first become involved with the local council? THE MAYOR: I was elected to the local council in 2004 but I had always been interested in local politics.

KL magazine: What do you think have been the most important changes to have taken place since then?

KL magazine: What do you think makes West Norfolk so appealing to so many people?

THE MAYOR: There have been so many changes – and there are many under way at present due to the current financial situation. Palm Paper has been a wonderful addition to the town, providing jobs and generally helping the local economy. Projects in the pipeline such as opening up the Tuesday Market Place and the rejuvenation of the bus station area will also be excellent improvements when the budget cuts lessen.

THE MAYOR: West Norfolk has so much to oﬀer – the countryside and the wildlife and the lovely walks. It’s a wonderful place. There’s so much to do, and being slightly oﬀ the beaten track means nothing has been spoilt.

KL magazine: What would you like to achieve whilst in your term of oﬃce? THE MAYOR: I have already achieved something I’m very proud of, as it ties in with one of my greatest loves, the arts. There are a number of watercolour pictures of King’s Lynn by the artist CT Page that had been stuck in the attic here, gathering dust. I have arranged with a local company to have these framed at no cost to the Council and they will then be displayed as they should be. It was such a waste to have these beautiful images of King’s Lynn hidden away.

A little bit of background... The Worshipful the Mayor of King’s Lynn and West Norfolk, Councillor Mrs Zipha Christopher (to give her her full, official title) was born on Prince Edward Island in Canada during the middle of the Second World War – her father had been seconded to the Royal Canadian Air Force as a Navigator Instructor. Her education followed her father’s later RAF postings around the world and she attended no less than 13 schools before enjoying a career in publishing. In 1963 she married Thomas Wood who became a vicar in the Sandringham group of parishes. As a Vicar’s wife Zipha was very committed to the parishes but was also spending time raising her two daughters. Following Thomas’ untimely death in 1971, Zipha settled on the Sandringham Estate and married the Queen’s Head Gamekeeper Monty Christopher. They continued to live on the Estate until 1999 when they moved to Snettisham. Zipha has a passionate interest in the arts, in particular literature and the visual arts. She’s also a keen country woman who keeps chickens and dogs, and is happy to provide hospitality for ponies and sheep who use the paddock at her property.

KLmagazine October 2010

KL magazine: If you weren’t involved with the Council what do you think you would be doing? THE MAYOR: I worked in an art gallery for many years which I loved, so it would definitely be something to do with fine art. KL magazine: How do you enjoy your free time? THE MAYOR: In this role I can’t say I get a lot of free time at the moment! But when I do, I’m a country woman through and through. I like gardening and my animals – we have two wire-haired dachshunds which I enjoy walking. KL magazine: Who inspires you? THE MAYOR: The Queen. As clichéd as it may sound, since becoming the Mayor I can really empathise with what she does. It’s not easy and she’s been doing it for so long! KL magazine: Tell us something about you that would surprise people? THE MAYOR: I hadn’t told any of my friends I was standing for Mayor, so that certainly came as a big surprise to them. But I suppose you may be surprised if I told you I once kept pet lamas – and I also write comical poetry. KL

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HISTORY

West Norfolk: Now and Then

Now: King’s Lynn High Street, 2010

Then: King’s Lynn High Street, 1925 HOW THINGS HAVE CHANGED! There’s plenty to see on a walk along King’s Lynn High Street today, but it looks positively restrained compared to 85 years ago! From this 1925 photograph it’s easy to see where the phrase ‘window shopping’ came from – although it seems the bicycle

shop is generating the most interest. This photograph (and many others like it) can be ordered from Picture Norfolk – you can contact them at the Norfolk Heritage Centre, Norfolk and Norwich Millennium Library, The Forum, Millennium Plain, Norwich, Norfolk NR2 1AW. We’ll be

bringing you another look at how things have changed in West Norfolk next month. IN ASSOCIATION WITH

To view thousands of images of Norfolk’s history visit: www.picture.norfolk.gov.uk KLmagazine October 2010

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LOCAL LIFE

Acting up with the King’s Lynn Players...

All the town’s a stage... The King’s Lynn Players are one of the most respected drama groups in the county – and they’ve been treading the boards for over 60 years. Charlotte Thorneycroft takes to the stage to find out more...

admit, I’m one of those people who have always loved the thought of amateur dramatics (to be and not to be and so forth) but I’ve never actually been brave enough to take the plunge. I was unsure of what to expect from a vsit to the King’s Lynn Players, having never dabbled before. Would it really be all lovies and theatrics – or was I about to step into a deadly serious world of Shakespearean acting? As it turns out, neither of these thoughts could have been further from the truth at the Players’ Thursday evening drama club. Carol Beveridge runs the group as an introduction or refresher to amateur dramatics for anyone with an interest in the subject, whether they’ve acted before or not.

The monthly meetings are a great way to improve one’s skills or work towards one of the projects the group organises. Being an ex-drama teacher obviously helps, and Carol jumped straight into the role bringing the class together. As well as the drama group’s monthly meeting, Carol also holds short acting courses from time to time which are great for learning the basics. When we were told what the basics for the evening would be, I was most surprised to hear the first rule would mean none of the scenes we put together would involve any speech – they would have conversation, but no speech. I wasn’t sure if perhaps it was Carol or I who was confused. Not that I’m an expert or anything, but I was pretty sure that in most of the plays I had seen, speech played

quite a major part! Silly me – it wasn’t a mistake. Ten minutes in, and we were all happily grunting at the person we’d been paired with as they clicked a reply – both of us trying to express ourselves through noises and body language. To my surprise it was absolutely brilliant! We all knew precisely what was happening in the scene without any performer saying a word! Another exercise involved hand gestures, and again I was astounded to see how much one can tell about a situation just from the actions a person does with their hands. Rather naively, I’d always assumed acting was easy as long as you remembered what to say. Suddenly that was completely turned on its head. But as dotty as these techniques may have seemed to me at the

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start, it all made so much sense when put into practice. The words are just added, while the actual performance is made from movements and gesture (you only have to look at the great silent films to see it in action). It was a really fun evening and any firstnight nerves were dispersed within seconds of meeting such a friendly group of people. Nobody’s performance was judged, and it was all very relaxed and friendly. Carol had a very valid and thoughtful point for all of us to take home and reflect on – “acting is pretending to be another person, while presenting is persuading the people watching that you are that person”. The Lynn Players have been established since 1944 and are members of the National Operatic and Dramatic Association. The Players’ membership is as varied as the drama club itself, attracting those who have worked in related areas such as choreography and music as well as those who are completely new to acting. Under the umbrella of the main group are two sub groups – The Young Players (for members aged between 8-18) and The Drama Club, which has been going for four years. The Lynn Players are well known in the

KLmagazine October 2010

town, putting on up to four productions a year, including their entries in the Hunstanton Drama Festival. Each year the Players also put on a musical – they’re hugely popular productions, very well rehearsed and with professional quality performances. This year’s production is West Side Story, which is playing at the King’s Lynn Corn Exchange from 6th-9th October and looks to be another big hit for the amateur dramatics group. The classic musical is based on the story of Romeo and Juliet and follows the tale of two lovers (Tony and Maria) involved with rival gangs and features such classic songs such as America, Tonight and I Feel Pretty. The Lynn Players also stage regular plays which are equally popular, attracting a number of auditionees at castings as well as successful audience numbers. Yet another successful year is planned for the group with the spring play for 2011 already having been decided on – The Secret Diary of Adrian Mole, aged 133/4. And that’s worth a note in everyone’s diary. KL

More details... If you would like to know more about any of the performances or even fancy getting involved yourself, a very friendly and knowledgeable welcome awaits. For the drama group which meets on the first Thursday of the month at the South Wootton Methodist Church at 7.30pm contact Carol Beveridge on 01553 674124. The King’s Lynn Player’s can be contacted via email – info@kingslynnplayers.co.uk or visit their website www.kingslynnplayers.co.uk

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PICTURE: STAVROS1

HOMES

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ABOVE: The interior of Cley Windmill oﬀers superb holiday accommodation whilst retaining its historical charm and atmosphere

When your home is also the country’s heritage... It’s one of the most photographed landmarks in the country, but Cley Windmill is also a friendly family home. Charlotte Thorneycroft talks to owner Julian Godlee about the future of this fabulous building...

s unusual residences go, a windmill has to be near the top of the list. But for many who’d love to live in such a unique abode the dream remains exactly that due to the high price tags and lack of availability. Cley Windmill is probably one of the most famous in the country and its iconic image has been photographed time and again. Set in the picturesque marshes at Cley-next-the-sea, an area of outstanding natural beauty the windmill oﬀers the best of both worlds for would-be mill dwellers, as it’s currently run as holiday accommodation. The windmill dates back to the 1700s although the tower itself was a later addition. In its early life the windmill was of course worked, but by the start of the 20th KLmagazine October 2010

century it had fallen into disrepair. It was restored but wasn’t converted into a guesthouse until 1983. The owners at this time were Charles and Jane Blount, parents of the singer James Blunt. It’s now owned by Dr. Julian Godlee, his wife Carolyn and their four children who bought the property in 2006. “I’ve always loved windmills and have very happy memories from the years spent in my parents windmill at Weybourne,” says Dr Godlee. “It was my father who told me Cley Windmill had come on to the market and I moved heaven and earth to buy it.” The landscape around the windmill is as breathtaking as the building itself. The panoramic views look out across the salt marshes towards Blakeney Harbour in the distance and the long reeds flow round as if

mirroring the sea in the breeze. Guests who stay in The Wheel Room at the top of the tower can enjoy these captivating views as far as the eye can see, with diﬀerent aspects from any of the four windows in the room. This newly converted bedroom is only for the adventurous, as it is accessed via a ladder from the corridor below - well worth the climb. To do justice to the grandeur of its position, the room has an oak four poster bed on which to relieve one’s aching legs. The room underneath this – The Stone Room – has an light and airy decor in contrast to the heavy, imposing wood on the ceilings. These massive beams are a prominent feature throughout the windmill, echoing its former life. Every inch of the property oozes with 23

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HOMES character and it’s instantly clear that a great deal of thought has gone into making such a heavy, bold building into something so elegant. In 2009 the bed and breakfast was closed for six weeks to allow thorough restoration and refurbishment to be carried out. Nearly 40 tradesmen were on site tirelessly working to renovate the buildings in the short period of time they were closed to the public. The owners were conscious of the history and heritage of Cley Windmill and were keen to preserve this in its decor. Natural tones enhance the interior and the antique furniture gives a comfortable and homely feel in keeping with the style. “A property this stunning and unique doesn’t come without its challenges,” explains Dr Godlee. “There’s an enormous financial upkeep, which just wouldn’t be possible without a successful business running inside it. We’re lucky to have such a wonderful team of staﬀ, all of whom love the windmill and feel as much responsibility for it as we do. We think of her like a lovely old lady, in need of care, and we all take it in turns to look after her. It’s an honour and a privilege to own such a landmark on the Norfolk coast.” At present the windmill is desperately in need of having the giant sails replaced, but with a staggering cost of £25,000 it can only be done with the help and support of others equally passionate about its future. Many have been lured by the beauty of the windmill – including the BBC, who used a continuity link featuring the area from 1990. It has also proved popular as a unique and impressive venue for weddings and family get togethers with the flexible accommodation on the site oﬀering space for 20 guests. Cley Windmill is becoming an increasingly popular venue, as Hotel Manager Charlotte Martin explains. “In the summer months we sometimes have two or three weddings a week,” she says. “You couldn’t ask for a more magical place for such an occasion. Lots of people come once and fall in love with the mill and return year after year. Everyone tells me how lucky I am to work in such a lovely place.” KL

ABOVE: Every room in the windmill invites you to relax and spend time absorbing your surroundings

ABOVE: The 2009 refurbishment has given the windmill a beautiful and subtle facelift throughout

Details

For more information about Cley Windmill, the current Sail Repair Appeal or bookings contact: CLEY WINDMILL Cley-next-the-Sea, Holt, Norfolk Tel: 01263 740209 ABOVE: Every room has been finished with love – and with painstaking attention to detail

KLmagazine October 2010

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GARDENING

KLmagazine October 2010

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ABOVE: Walk around Oxburgh Hall and every corner is a delight for keen gardeners

The future’s green for Oxburgh... Revitalising the gardens of Oxburgh Hall for the future means looking to the past for inspiration. Ann Weaver meets the head gardener...

raham Donachie has been the head gardener at Oxburgh Hall near Downham Market for the last 28 years and has worked in horticulture since 1962. Over that time he’s seen many changes and has been the instigator of most of them. Some of the biggest changes have come about in the last seven years with the introduction of the conservation plan. “The plan is like a bible to the estate” says Graham. “It’s a report on everything here, from the gardens to the fields – and it documents the history of the local area too. Once that was in place I was in a position to

KLmagazine October 2010

approach the National Trust (who own the property) and put forward proposals to make improvements.” One vital element of the plan was the historical background, which allowed Graham to trace how the gardens have changed over the years. “A good example of this is the herbaceous border,” he explains, “which was once the area known as The Secret Garden. It had a tall hedge at the front equal in height to the rear wall and the ends were blocked in with an arched oak doorway on either side. It was designed to allow pregnant women of the house – whether

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GARDENING residents or workers – to carry out their daily tasks in privacy. I’d like to put this back to the way it once was. We still have one of the original doors, so we can get another made to match.” A large team of volunteers aid Graham with his work, and with them, the future of the gardens looks to be in safe hands. All bring diﬀerent skills and areas of expertise to the various projects, and they’ve been put to the test over the summer with the installation of a new Victorian glasshouse. In the 1950s the original glasshouse had to be taken down as it had become too damaged to repair. A later ‘flat pack’ version was installed but wasn’t built to stand the test of time and was taken down itself in 2008. After quotes of over £150,000 for a new one to match the original Victorian glasshouse, it looked doubtful there would be one in place any time soon. However, with a carpenter, bricklayer, welder and architect all within the large volunteer team, Graham initiated a plan to build their own from scratch. The project has now been completed – it looks fantastic and cost less than 10% of the original quote, which the National Trust wouldn’t have been able to aﬀord. Another area which has undergone a makeover is the orchard. Before the Second World War, this area was used to graze cattle and grow sugar beet. More recently it had been filled with plum trees, but Graham’s conservation plan revealed its original use as a vegetable garden and apple orchard. With the plum trees coming to the end of their lives and the quince also struggling, the decision was made to completely clear and replant the site. To reinstate it to its former glory, Norfolk apple trees were planted along with Norfolk pears and English quince, creating a very British orchard. The orchard should be producng fruit in 2011 which will then be used in the kitchen of the main house. The produce from the vegetable garden is also used in this way, except some which is kept back for demonstrations throughout the year such as onion stringing. Graham strongly encourages involvement in the garden and the work they do at Oxburgh. “The demonstrations we do here are very important to our visitors – especially the younger generation who like to ask lots of questions. We have a lot of school visits here and I believe the gardens are there to teach – not just to look nice.” The two prettiest areas of the gardens are the Victorian parterre and the wildflower meadow. The parterre was designed in the 1820s after the Bedingfield family visited the gardens at Versailles and fell in love with them. The miniature box hedges and shapely planted Yews are precisely positioned with

KLmagazine October 2010

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ABOVE: A large team of volunteers is helping Head Gardener Graham Donachie (left) keep the gardens of Oxburgh Hall in near-perfect condition whatever the season

splashes of colour from French marigolds, heliotropes, lavender and various other bedding plants. The wildflower meadow is another new addition to the landscape of Oxburgh Hall. Left to grow this year, the meadow is now thriving with fritillary, mini daﬀodils and wild garlic to name but a few. This also inspired the re-introduction of bees to Oxburgh and there are now five show hives on The Oak Yard and no less than 22 commercial hives on the Wash Pit. These beautiful gardens are a real treat for any nature lover and provide something diﬀerent all year round. And thanks to Graham and his team of volunteers, that will be true for many years to come. KL

ABOVE: Shown here as a work in progress, the new glasshouse at Oxburgh is a triumph of teamwork and is happily faithful to the original, which disappeared in the 1950s

Details

OXBURGH HALL Oxborough, near King’s Lynn, Norfolk PE33 9PS Tel: 01366 328258 Web: www.nationaltrust.org

KLmagazine October 2010

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FASHION

Good looks made easy Models Morgan Roberts Holly Jefferis Steph Ross Photographer Ian Ward Location Goddards Wellesey Street, Kings Lynn

Black Knitted Dress Gerry Weber Editions (£79.95) Jeans Gerry Weber Editions (£79.95) Shoulder Bag Gianni Conti (£49.95) All available from Goddards

KLmagazine October 2010

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3 Piece Suit (Ted Baker) £395 Tie Hugo Boss (£59.95) All available from Goddards

Navy Dress Gerry Weber Editions (£75) Fuchsia Roll Neck (£69) All available from Goddards

KLmagazine October 2010

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ADVERTISER’S ANNOUNCEMENT

Everything a bride could want from garters to tiaras... “Customer satisfaction is key. We wouldn’t sell the same prom dress to two girls attending the same prom.”

ost women will tell you the most essential part of planning their big day is getting the right dress. It has to be perfect. But brides aren’t the only ones in search of their dream dress. e decision is just as hard for girls choosing what to wear for the all-important prom, as Josephine Ross owner of Bridal Boutique tells us. “Whether it’s for a wedding or a prom, the customer wants to look and feel amazing. When they step out of the changing room with that magical look on their face, you know they have found ‘the one’. As well as the friendly, relaxing atmosphere, Bridal Boutique pride themselves on oﬀering a truly complete service. eir vast

range of styles come in a choice of 81 colours and are available in any size, as all are made to order from the customer’s exact measurements. “We provide exactly what the customer wants at a price they can aﬀord.” says Josephine. ere’s even a wide range of tiaras, veils, shoes and accessories to complete that special look.

Details

BRIDAL BOUTIQUE 10 Tower Street King’s Lynn Norfolk PE3 1EJ Tel: 01553 770347

Our customers keep telling us that there’s no other shop quite like us in King’s Lynn. at’s because we’ve got everything a woman could want for an exciting new look – including scarves, earrings, tiaras, watches, fascinators, fashion handbags, necklaces, fashion shoes, belts, sunglasses, and much more. For a new look at a great price, you’ll find New Image is right on trend.

New Image 120 High Street, King’s Lynn, Norfolk Telephone: 07872 029315 Website: www.newimagekingslynn.co.uk

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FASHION Knitted Dress (£79.95) Jeans Gerry Weber Editions (£79.95) Shoulder bag Gianni Conti (£49.95) Steph Pink Knitted Dress Avoca (£150) Navy Hooded Cardi Avoca (£129) Morgan Jeans Gant (£89.95) Shirt Gant (£79.95) Jacket Gant (£299.95) Shoes Gant (£130) Holly Jeans Gant (£75) White shirt Gant (£69) Striped Cardi Gant (£79) Striped Scarf Gant (£29) All available from Goddards

Wine Stripe shirt (£79) Navy Cotton V-neck (£59) Jeans NYDJ (£139.95) All available from Goddards

KLmagazine October 2010

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ADVERTISER’S ANNOUNCEMENT

Local tax services going hi-tech... How new technology is improving the services of local accountants Kirby and Haslam...

eil Kirby and Alan Haslam would like to introduce Matthew Roberts, who has recently become a director of Kirby and Haslam. Matthew has been employed by the partnership for 14 years, working his way up the accountancy ladder from office junior to now, chartered accountant and certified accountant, and is thrilled with his new role as a director. Neil and Alan first formed their partnership in 1984 although their company, Kirby and Haslam (which now employs a strong team of 17 staff) wasn’t formed until 2003. As experienced chartered accountants the company is able to offer a wide range of services including payroll, bookkeeping, tax advice and audits. Providing the best possible service at the best price to their clients, Kirby and Haslam are always at the front for new developments within the industry. “Businesses and finance are always changing and it’s imperative to the financial welfare of our clients that we move with them,” says Neil. “Accounts and tax issues can be very complex and are often the most time-consuming elements of running a business. Handing this over to us can save both time – so you can concentrate on your business – and money.” With paper accounts now taking a back seat to online filing, Kirby and Haslam have recently introduced a new computer system which has proved very popular with their clients.

By listening to their customers they were able to recognise a need for quicker and easier management systems and Xero ticked the box. Having a separate computer department also enables the accountancy company to deal with any queries and oﬀer advice where needed. Xero is marketed as the easiest accounts package in the world and quite simply – it is. “e software is simple and intuitive to use,” says Matt Roberts. “With bank statement upload, tedious data entry and complicated bank reconciliations a thing of the past. It’s the perfect product for the modern business person.” Users are able to manage their transactions, expenses and contacts all at the touch of a button. Invoices can be created, sent and received all from one place, banking and reporting are also useful features to keep track of a business and hold accurate account information on a day to day basis. As a web-based package users are also able to view their accounts from anywhere in the world via PC, Mac or even on mobile devices. is also has the benefit of allowing Kirby and Haslam to provide instant online support to their clients as if they were sat next to them. Whatever your accountancy needs, the knowledgeable team at Kirby and Haslam are experts in their field. ey oﬀer a free initial meeting and can also provide free consultations to check eligibility for tax credits.

Details

KIRBY & HASLAM 11 King Street, King’s Lynn PE301ET Tel: 01553 761316 Web: www.kirbyandhaslam.com E-mail: enquiries@kirbyandhaslam.com 34

ABOVE: The team at Kirby and Haslam are led by directors Matthew Roberts, Neil Kirby and Alan Haslam

Important Tax and Financial dates: October 2010 The world of accountancy is a busy one – here are some important dates to remember in October 2010 1st October Equality Act 2010 is introduced 5th October End of PAYE period 19th October PAYE payment due for period to 5th October 19th October Construction Industry Scheme forms due for period to 5th October 31st October Self Assessment paper Income Tax Returns must be submitted by this date 31st October Limited company accounts for period ended 31st January 2010 must be submitted to Companies House by this date. 31st October Corporation Tax Returns for accounting period ended 31st October 2009 must be submitted by this date. 31st October Paper VAT Returns for period ended 30th September 2010 must be submitted 1st November Corporation Tax payable for company accounts to 31st January 2010 must be paid by this date. 7th November On-line VAT Returns for period ended 30th September 2010 must be submitted. For any help and advice on the above or any other accountancy matter, contact us at the address opposite.

KLmagazine October 2010

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FOOD & DRINK

INGREDIENT OF THE MONTH Brussels Sprouts

PICTURE: WWW.THINKVEGETABLES.CO.UK

RECIPE OF THE MONTH

Spicy Duck with Basil and Asparagus Basil is such a versatile herb adding gorgeous colour and distinctive flavour to dishes. This is a super quick supper for 4 for midweek yet impressive enough to whip up for the guests. The flavour of this sauce is intensified by frying the basil in the oil adding a sweetness to the duck... INGREDIENTS 125g fine asparagus, cut into 3cm chunks 2 tbsp olive oil 25g pack basil, stalks removed 4 skinless duck breasts, thinly sliced 2 tsp Bart Massaman Thai Curry Paste 2 tbsp soy sauce 2 tsp Thai fish sauce 25g unsalted natural peanuts, roughly chopped INSTANT EXPERT Try using tenderstem broccoli instead of asparagus, it’s just as tasty. Also try alternating the Massaman paste with Thai green or red curry paste. It also works well with chicken or turkey.

KLmagazine October 2010

INSTRUCTIONS 1 Place the asparagus in a steamer over a pan of simmering water. Steam for 4-5 minutes until tender and set aside. Meanwhile heat the oil in a large frying pan or wok. Add the basil leaves and cook for 12 minutes until the turn slightly translucent and are crispy once removed. Transfer the leaves to a plate lined with kitchen paper. 2 Add the duck slices to the pan and cook on a high heat for 3-4 minutes stirring. Then stir in the curry paste, soy sauce and fish sauce and cook for about 1 minute until the duck is cooked and well coated. 3 Add the asparagus, sprinkle over the basil and peanuts and serve with egg or rice noodles. KL

member of the cabbage family, Brussels sprouts were developed from wild cabbage and are thought to have originated near Brussels in Belgium in the 13th century. Associated with Christmas dinner, they’re actually a versatile winter vegetable with a distinctive flavour, which can be unpleasant if they’re overcooked. Choose small, green sprouts for the best flavour and firm compact ones for a good texture. HOW TO USE Serve as an accompanying vegetable to roast turkey or chicken or to game dishes. Toss in butter and sesame seeds or top with crispy bacon before serving or serve simply with ground black pepper. HOW TO PREPARE Wash thoroughly in cold water, trim oﬀ any damaged leaves and the stem. For larger sprouts, cut a cross in the base of each sprout with a small, sharp knife – this ensures the stem cooks at the same rate as the leaves. HOW TO COOK To boil, bring a pan of salted water to the boil, add the sprouts and cook for 10-15 minutes or until tender. To steam, place in a steamer and cook for 15-20 minutes or until tender. Drain well before serving. HOW TO STORE Keep in the fridge for up to 1 week.

Cook’s notes ... Preparation Ti me:

5 mins Cooking Time: 10 mins Serves: 4 Nutrition: 381 kcals 43g protein 22g fat (5g satu rated) 3g carbs (1g su gar) 1g fibre 2.2g salt

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MARSHALL Toyota Marshall House, Scania Way, King’s Lynn PE30 4JH www.marshallkingslynn.toyota.co.uk Tel 01553 780150

All makes servicing from £59.99 inc vat MOT £25.00

½ price MOT when booked with your service – present this advertisement or quote KL magazine

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PICTURES: WWW.THINKVEGETABLES.CO.UK

FOOD & DRINK

Baked Salmon with Coriander Chutney Tapenade Fresh coriander makes a delicious chutney style tapenade that gives the simplest baked fish a more interesting flavour. There’s no need to discard the coriander stalks as they’re just as flavour packed as the leaves... INSTANT EXPERT

ets are Plump salmon fill INGREDIENTS in this recipe od go ly lar particu 3 tbsp olive oil fish like but other pieces of 4 x wild salmon fillets, each kfish or on m cod, haddock, about 125g, skinned instead. ed us be n halibut ca 1 small onion, finely chopped te the Sultanas accentua 2 garlic cloves, crushed ur of the vo ‘chutney’ like fla 25g pack coriander, chopped don’t like u yo if t ing bu 1 tsp cumin seeds, lightly crushed topp l of lightly them, use a handfu 25g sultanas tead. ins ts toasted pine nu INSTRUCTIONS 1 Heat the oven to 190oC, gas mark 5. 2 Brush the base of a shallow ovenproof dish with a little of the oil. Arrange the salmon fillets in the dish, spacing them slightly apart and season with salt and pepper. Bake for 10 minutes. 3 While cooking, heat 1 tbsp of the oil in a frying pan and gently fry the onion for 5 minutes until golden brown. Preparation Ti me: 10 mins 4 Add the garlic, coriander, Cooking Time: 10 mins cumin seeds, sultanas, 4 tbsp Serves: 4 water and a little seasoning. Heat for about 2 minutes Nutrition: until the water has almost 350 kcals evaporated. 26g protein 5 Pile the chutney over the 25g fat (4g satu rated) fish portions and drizzle with 6g carbs (5g su ga r) the remaining oil. Bake for a 0.5g fibre further 8-10 minutes or until 0.1g salt the fish flakes easily when pierced with a knife. KL

Cook’s notes ...

KLmagazine October 2010

Chicken with Midi Plum Tomatoes, Cannellini Beans, Chilli and Garlic This simple dish is ready in just a few minutes and only uses one pan. The roasted tomatoes give this dish a burst of flavour. Serve with steamed spinach for a complete meal. Try adding some crispy pancetta rashers on top for a stylish dish... C INGREDIENTS 4 chicken breasts (500g) 2 tbsp chilli oil 8 midi plum tomatoes, halved lengthways 175ml hot chicken stock 2 garlic cloves, chopped Juice of 1 lemon 1 x 410g tin cannelloni beans, drained and rinsed 2 tbsp freshly chopped parsley

ook’s notes...

Preparation Ti me: 10 mins Cooking Time: 10 mins Serves: 4 Nutrition: 305 kcals 39g protein 8g fat (1.5g sa turated) 21g carbs (9g sugar) 1.2g salt 7g fibre

INSTRUCTIONS 1 Cut the chicken breasts in half horizontally. 2 Heat 1 tbsp chilli oil in a large pan and fry the chicken breasts for 4-5 minutes on each side until lightly golden and cooked through. Remove and keep warm. 3 Add the halved tomatoes and gently cook for 4-5 minutes over a low heat until the tomatoes start to soften. 4 Add the stock, garlic, lemon juice, cannelloni beans and seasoning and gently heat through. 5 Serve the chicken breasts with the tomatoes and cannellini beans spooned over the top. Drizzle with the remaining chilli oil and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley. KL

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Around the world in 80 dishes The popular global feast returns to West Norfolk in November – and it’s more appetising than ever

he chance for West Norfolk residents to take their taste buds on a trip around the world is here again with the return of the spectacular international food event Around the World in 80 Dishes. Held at Lynnsport on Sunday 7th November from 1.30-4pm, the event will include entertainment and demonstrations to satisfy every palette and provide the whole family with a chance to experience culinary delights from a host of cultures. This ever-popular event is now in its seventh year and sees local businesses, community groups and people bringing along a sample of their national dishes to share with attendees. “Around the World in 80 Dishes is a fantastic way for people to experience

different tastes they may not have come across before,” says Marie Connell, Community Cohesion Officer. “This event is always so well attended – last year we had around 1,000 people, and we hope that this year will be no exception. It looks set to be a spectacular afternoon, so please come along and join in the fun!” The West Norfolk Chinese Association will warm up the crowd with their magnificent lantern dance (right) followed by The King’s Morris Dancers, who’ll be performing – and encouraging attendees to have a go! This event has been funded by the West Norfolk Partnership. For further information, contact Laura Beveridge (Partnership Communications Officer) on 01553 616251. KL

KLmagazine October 2010

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FOOD & DRINK

Restaurant Review KL magazine travels across West Norfolk and samples its outstandng culinary delights – and gives you a little taste of what to expect. This month Ann Weaver whets our appetite with a visit to the ever-popular Gin Trap Inn at Ringstead...

et just back from the road in the heart of Ringstead is the quintessential English pub The Gin Trap Inn. Its whitewashed walls and pretty hanging baskets give the building a pleasing country look which continues inside. The bar area has a cosy welcoming feel with a beamed ceiling and log fire – just right for getting rid of a chill over a tipple or two. We sat for a moment and spoke to the friendly barman before being shown to our table in the restaurant. This was a modern, light, oak conservatory area and quite different to what I expected. A high chair was brought over for the youngest member of our party – our 3 year old daughter – who also was given her own menu to choose from (which to my surprise consisted of far more than the standard sausage or fish fingers and chips offered at so many places today). As well as an excellent selection of meat, fish and vegetarian dishes on the regular menu, there was also a good choice of specials including a ham hock terrine with apricot chutney which I decided on as a starter. One other in the party also chose this (and we were both glad we did), and two chose the fish kebab (a mixture of King Prawn, Tuna and Cod). Both dishes were presented beautifully and were accompanied with warm bread rolls. Despite valiant efforts to persuade our

KLmagazine October 2010

daughter to take the healthier option of salmon, new potatoes and green beans from the children’s selection, she settled for fish and chips with garden peas. Two of us chose slow cooked belly of pork with roasted vegetables, which melted in the mouth. The portion size was just right although perhaps lacked some greenery. My husband ordered steak, which came with ample accompaniments and was cooked medium rare precisely as requested. The salmon dish was also a big success, a good size fillet with a delicate béarnaise sauce. Every last morsel of the main course was consumed (always a good sign) and we greedily agreed a pudding could just about be squeezed in. Feeling a little naughty I opted for the pear and honey tart with cinnamon sauce – it was very sweet and sticky but very yummy none the less. My husband was most impressed to see a dessert containing three equally-loved ingredients – Macadamia nut chocolate cake with coconut ice cream. He assured me it was delicious, but didn’t allow me to judge for myself! There was an unusual selection of ice cream on oﬀer, so we decided someone in our party just had to try them. For future reference, liquorice, coﬀee and strawberry ice cream are fabulous individually, but

probably don’t make the best combination. Finally, the lady in our party who doesn’t normally eat puddings chose a roasted peach with almond ice cream. It was nice to see a choice of homemade desserts without hordes of artificial sweetness. The evening was very pleasant as was our waitress, who regularly came to the table to see if we wanted more drinks and check everything was ok. We were all impressed with the food and not having pages and pages on the menu to choose from meant it was all cooked and presented very well. The price of the food isn’t cheap with starters such as soup starting at £5.00, main courses around £16 and the desserts £6.50. However, as the age-old saying goes – you pay for what you get, and overall we had a lovely meal with good service to boot. KL

Details

FOOD: SERVICE: VALUE: THE GIN TRAP INN High Street, Ringstead, Norfolk Tel: 01485 525264 Web: www.gintrapinn.co.uk

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FOOD & DRINK

LocalTastes Selected by Charlotte Thorneycroft

Finding a starting place from which to sample the wealth of locally-produced food and drink in West Norfolk is an unenviable task, so we decided a local drink might help focus our thinking...

ou could well describe Norfolk as the kitchen of England – there are so many local producers and suppliers of good quality delicious produce here. From homemade jams and chutneys to rare breed pork sausages we’re lucky to have such a delectable selection on offer in our region. West Norfolk’s brewing history is well recognised, so where better to begin our journey through the tastes of eastern England than with a drop of local beer. Derek Clark of Beers of Europe in Setchey is an expert in the subject, and though it sounds like the perfect job he assures us that tasting all those hundreds of beers, lagers, ciders, wines and spirits isn’t as easy as it seems! Derek has picked three of his top local beers to tantalise your tastebuds.

DA CRAI Fox Brewery – Heacham Bottle conditioned golden ale, 3.9% abv A light golden beer with the aroma of lemon grass and citrus, the fruity flavour is sweet and spicy with quite a bitter finish. This beer is a perfect match for your Chinese takeaway.

RESINATION Hopshackle brewery – Market Deeping IPA, 7% abv A truly superb example of an IPA brewed with American hops. Aroma is hoppy, citrus and spicy with an intensely hoppy, bitter-sweet flavour. Definitely a must try but the long lasting after taste is not for your average lager drinker. An excellent accompaniment to a good curry but just as good alone. ADMIRAL RESERVE Woodfordes Brewery – Woodbastwick Bottle conditioned premium bitter, 5% abv A light orange amber coloured premium English bitter with a fruity aroma. The flavour is mildly bitter with hints of citrus and apples, a really pleasant drink from an excellent Norfolk brewer. Try is with a beef or game pie to really complement the taste.

All of these beers along with an enormous selection of other alcoholic beverages can be purchased from Beers of Europe, Garage Lane, Setchey, Norfolk, PE33 0BE. Contact 01553 812000 or visit the website www.beersofeurope.co.uk

Your talent. Our opportunities. A great team. Berry Recruitment can help you realise your amibitions Since its inception, Berry Recruitment has provided a dedicated recruitment service within key sectors. Our consultants can call upon a wealth of related experience and are adept at combining talented people with the right temporary, contract and permanent opportunities. We’re currently looking for exceptional candidates to fill a wide variety of vacancies in King’s Lynn and the surrounding area. We have permanent and temporary opportunities for administrators, sales professionals, customer service advisors, chefs, electrical and mechanical engineers, and HGV drivers of all classifications. We provide both clients and candidates with exceptional service and make every effort to understand the requirements of the businesses and individuals we work with. If you have a vacancy to fill or if you’re looking for new opportunities then please contact Matthew or Rachel on 01553 771222 or drop into our offices for an informal, confidential chat. Berry Recruitment are proud to offer all clients a genuine 24 hour service, so please get in touch anytime you have any urgent staffing requirements. 67A High Street, King’s Lynn, Norfolk Telephone: 01553 771222 E-mail: kingslynn@berryrecruitment.co.uk

Combining talent with opportunity 40

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Eating Out Bank House Brasserie Brasserie food, British Classics Bank House Hotel, King’s Staithe Square, Kings Lynn 01553 660492 www.thebankhouse.co.uk

The Gin Trap Inn Gastro Pub 6 High Street, Ringstead, Hunstanton 01485 525264 www.gintrapinn.co.uk

Bradley’s Restaurant and wine bar 10 South Quay, Kings Lynn 01553 600836 www.bradleysbytheriver.co.uk

The Hare Arms Varied fine dining Stow Bardolph, Kings Lynn 01366 382229 www.theharearms.co.uk The Hoste Arms The Green, Burnham Market 01328 738777 www.hostearms.co.uk The Jolly Sailors Pub favourites Brancaster, Kings Lynn 01485 210314 www.jollysailorsbrancaster.co.uk

Buckinghamshire Arms Traditional and modern local food Blickling Hall, Aylsham 01263 723133 www.bucks-arms.co.uk Caley Hall Hotel Gastro pub Old Hunstanton Road, Hunstanton 01485 533486 www.caleyhallhotel.co.uk Congham Hall Fine dining Lynn Road, Grimston 01485 600250 www.conghamhallhotel.co.uk The Crown Inn Gastro pub The Green, East Rudham 01485 528530 www.thecrowneastrudham.co.uk The Dabbling Duck Seasonal English Cuisine Abbey Road, Great Massingham 01485 520827 www.thedabblingduck.co.uk D’Inacios 9 Newmans Yard, Norwich Road, Fakenham 01328 851247 www.dinacios.co.uk

KLmagazine October 2010

The King Of Hearts 1 School Road, West Walton, Wisbech 01945 584785 The Lavender House Fine dining 39 The Street, Brundell 01603 712215 www.thelavenderhouse.co.uk Leziate Park Local English Cuisine Brow of the Hill, Leziate, King’s Lynn 01553 630393 www.leziatepark.co.uk Market Bistro English Cuisine 11 Saturday Market Place, King’s Lynn 01553 771483 www.marketbistro.co.uk

The Neptune Inn and Restaurant Varied Fine Dining 85 Old Hunstanton Road, Old Hunstanton 01485 532122 www.theneptune.co.uk The Number Twenty Four Restaurant New English Cuisine. 24 Middleton Street, Wymondham 01953 607750 www.number24.co.uk The Old Vicarage Seasonal Local Food. The Street, Hemsby 01493 731557 www.theoldvicaragehemsby.co.uk The Olive Tree Gastro bistro 1 Bacton Road, North Walsham 01692 404900 www.theolivetreenorfolk.com The Orange Tree New takes on pub classics and seafood High Street, Thornham 01485 512213 www.theorangetreethornham.co.uk Palmers British Brasserie 45 High Street, Downham Market. 01366 388124 www.palmersrestaurant.co.uk The Riverside Restaurant English Cuisine 27 King Street, King’s Lynn 01553 773134 The Rose and Crown Traditional pub favourites Old Church Road, Snettisham 01485 541382 www.roseandcrownsnettisham.co.uk

Saracen’s Head Gastro Pub Wolerton, near Erpingham 01263 768909 www.saracenshead-norfolk.co.uk The Ship Hotel Seafood Main Road, Brancaster 01485 210333 www.flyingkiwiinns.co.uk Titchwell Manor Traditional and modern infusion Titchwell, Kings Lynn 01485 210221 www.titchwellmanor.com Upcher’s Restaurant Varied English Cuisine Dales Country House Hotel, Upper Sheringham 01263 824555 www.mackensiehotels.com Weavers Wine Bar and Eating House Traditional and modern infusion Market Hill, Diss 01379 642411 www.weavers-diss.com The White Horse Local seafood Brancaster Staithe 01485 210262 www.whitehorsebrancaster.co.uk W–FOUR Contemporary Italian classics 1 Exchange Square, Wisbech 01945 584454 www.w-four-restaurant.com The Yurt Restaurant Drove Orchards, Thornham Road, Thornham, Hunstanton 01485 525108 www.theyurt.co.uk

A taste of West Norfolk If we’ve missed your favourite local restaurant from this list, we’d love to hear from you – and so would our readers. Send the details to us at features@klmagazine.co.uk, and remember to pass on any fine dining tips, advice or recommendations as well!

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LOCAL LIFE

Explorer King’s Lynn

To help you make the most out of life in West Norfolk, KL magazine searches out the region’s most popular towns and villages, highlighting all the must-see attractions and the must-do events – starting oﬀ with King’s Lynn itself...

PICTURE CREDIT: KEITH SAUNDERS

Each year the town holds the King’s Lynn Festival, a two-week event hosting a plethora of classical music talent as well as a literary dinner. The English Chamber Orchestra (left) and the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra were just two of the well known performers at this year’s 60th anniversary festival. Festival Too was started in 1985 with the aim of providing free entertainment for the people of West Norfolk. The festival has grown into an amazing music event and has over the years attracted some top artists including this year, Lemar. The event is great fun for all the family and a definite ‘must do’ in King’s Lynn.

The town has a rich fishing history dating back many years and the fishing fleet still regularly sails from King’s Lynn today. True’s Yard Fishing Heritage Museum is set in two lovingly-restored fishermen’s cottages and displays what life was like for the men, women and children that lived there. It houses a wonderful array of information and exhibits relating to the fishing community (known as The Northenders) and is open from Tuesday to Saturday (10am-4pm). For more details, call True’s Yard Museum on 01553 770479 or visit the website at www.truesyard.co.uk 42

The magnificent St Margaret’s Church was founded in 1101 by Hubert von Losinga and stands proudly on the Saturday Market Place. There are lunchtime recitals in the Church on Tuesdays from 12.30pm-1.00pm until the end of October. It is open daily to the public.

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The Custom House on Lynn’s Purfleet Quay is a fine 17th century building designed by Henry Bell. The iconic building’s fine rooms are alive with displays on the merchants, customs men and smugglers of the area. It is also home the Tourist Information Centre. The Custom House is open all year round and admission is free. Call 01553 763044

The Walks is the town’s 17 hectare, 18th century park and is the only surviving ‘walk’ of this type in Norfolk. The walks were designated a grade II Historic Park by English Heritage and have undergone a £4.3 million restoration to return The Walks to their former glory. A place of delightful landscaping for recreation or relaxation, there are also two children’s play areas and a cafe. At the highest point of The Walks lies the 15th century Red Mount Chapel. Once used by pilgrims on their way to Walsingham, it’s a hugely important landmark in King’s Lynn which is reflected in its Scheduled Ancient Monument status. This nationally-unique building is open to the public during summer months on Wednesdays and Saturdays and also on Heritage Open Days.

KLmagazine October 2010

King’s Lynn is the main retail area for West Norfolk and houses some excellent shops, combining all the big high street names like Boots, Marks & Spencers and Debenhams with many independent retailers. The Vancouver Quarter (named after Captain George Vancouver) is open 7 days a week and has a wide selection of shops, eateries, the bus station and a supermarket (Sainsbury’s). There are numerous pay and display car parks dotted around the town all within easy reach of the centre. See: www.vancouverquarter.com 43

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ADVERTISER’S ANNOUNCEMENT

Mike’s top tips for better photos Snappy Snaps – I better by smiles! Your photos have never looked so good – on so many diﬀerent things, in so many diﬀerent ways

ike Pearson had always been a keen photographer, when in 2007 he and his wife Brenda took over the Snappy Snaps shop on Norfolk Street. Now, what was once a hobby has turned into a thriving business combining numerous elements of photography and processing. e Snappy Snaps brand is a national franchise with branches all over the country which enables the couple to offer superb quality at affordable prices. “So many people associate professional studio shoots with astronomical prices, which isn’t the case with us,” explains Mike. “Most of our customers who have a studio session want copies for relatives or friends or even have a large image blown up onto canvas – our prices enable them to do that.” At present Snappy Snaps King’s Lynn is offering a makeover and photo shoot package for just £99, which includes hair styled by e Hair Boutique, make up by Neat Beauty and an 8x10 photograph.

e experience takes around two hours to ensure a relaxed and perfect picture. Since taking over the shop Mike and Brenda have transformed the space to include many new products and services including two photo kiosks, large format printing and advanced alteration techniques to change regular images into pop art prints, collages and even turn your little ones into fairies or knights. “Personalised gifts are always very popular,” says Brenda, “and we can put any pictures onto mugs, t-shirts and mouse mats. ey’re fantastic as unique gifts for hard to please relatives!” As well as all the services you’d expect from Snappy Snaps such as passport and ID pictures, corporate shoots and processing, the photographic shop also oﬀers more specialised services such as photo restoration and 35mm processing (including disposable). So whether it’s a quick pic for your Facebook page or a 20x32 family canvas, Mike and Brenda at Snappy Snaps can help.

f anyone should know how to take the perfect picture, it’s Mike having been a photographer for many years. Developing other people’s pictures, the team at Snappy Snaps often see some classic photography mistakes. Mike tells us more “We get a lot of pictures with heads missing or a finger over half of the lens,” says Mike. “But by following just a few basic rules you can instantly improve your photography – no matter what camera you’re using.” Portrait Don’t take pictures with the sun directly behind your subject. Many people think this is the best view but it actually tricks the camera into thinking the image is brighter than it is, and so you end up with just a shadow instead of a person. It also helps if you have your subject in the middle of your focus – that way you shouldn’t lose any heads as you click. Landscape Again, lighting always makes the picture and if you’re planning to take a photo of a particular place, early morning or late afternoon oﬀer the best lighting. But the most important part of a landscape is to get it straight. It sounds simple but quite often a beautiful sunset over Hunstanton is spoiled by the sea drifting oﬀ

the side! Try to steady yourself and make sure the landscape is horizontal. Action ese are always diﬃcult unless you have a camera that has an adjustable shutter speed. If an object is coming towards you, you’re less likely to get a blurry image. But if you are taking a side-on view of something moving at speed the key is to judge how fast it’s going and take the picture just before you think you should. An easy mistake to make is shooting when the object is in the middle of your lens, which often leads to a photo showing the object as it leaves your frame. In general, take your time and use the settings on your camera in relation to what you’re taking – they all help. Check the background too – don’t just focus on your subject because as lovely as it may be, if there’s a wheelie bin behind it or an old carrier bag stuck in the hedge that you didn’t notice it will ruin a lovely photograph.

Details

SNAPPY SNAPS 133 Norfolk Street King’s Lynn PE301AU Tel: 01553 691328 Web: www.snappysnapskingslynn.co.uk

KLmagazine October 2010

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LOCAL LIFE There is evidence to suggest there have been markets held in King’s Lynn since the 12th century, so it comes as no surprise that today there are three markets in the town weekly. The largest of the three is held on the Tuesday Market Place on (naturally enough) Tuesdays. Traders oﬀer a wide variety of goods including groceries, clothing, fish and plants. The Tuesday Market Place is also the site of Friday’s market where you can buy home-baked goods, chutneys and jams from Lynn’s Country Market traders. The Saturday Market Place (next to St Margaret’s Church) has a small market each Saturday, and it has a long future ahead of it – the site was given a licence to be a market in 1435 that runs for 999 years!

A guided walk of historic King’s Lynn gives a fascinating look into the town’s past. Taken by experienced town guides, the walks leave Tales of the Old Gaol House on the Saturday Market Place at 2pm on Friday and Saturday afternoons (May-Oct) and at 2pm on Tuesdays (June-Oct).

King’s Lynn has another Scheduled Ancient Monument in the South Gate. One of the most recognised structures in the town, the South Gate stands on what is now London Road next to the river Nar. Built in the 15th century (although originally constructed in the 14th century and re-built in 1450) as a controlled entry and exit point, the gateway still sees many visitors enter into the town through it today.

KLmagazine October 2010

The Corn Exchange is the heart of entertainment in West Norfolk and has a varied programme of performances and events throughout the year. The building itself is very impressive as is the artwork in the foyer area. The Coﬀee House is an ideal place to enjoy a relaxing drink or snack – even when there’s nobody on the stage! Call 01553 764864 or visit the website www.kingslynncornexchange.co.uk for details

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HEALTH & BEAUTY

Good Looks with Lydia Shreeve

Step by Step: 30 minute manicure

very woman wants gorgeous hands but tasks such as cooking, cleaning and typing can make nails look scruffy. Kelly Sayers at Aphrodite Nails and Beauty demonstrated how to do a salonworthy manicure in your own home. Before you start, you’ll need the following: – clean, polish-free nails – a file – a bowl of water with a few drops of cuticle oil – a towel – cuticle oil, cuticle hoofer, cuticle knife and nipper – nail varnish remover – soft and rough buffers and buffing cream – base coat, top coat and polish – a spare 30 minutes or more STEP ONE File the nails – in one direction only – from corner to centre and soak. Cuticle oil enhanced soaking is great for hard cuticles, softening them for removal. Sit back and soak a little longer. Dab a little more oil on the cuticles and rub in.

STEP TWO Using the Hoof stick, gently push the cuticle back. Using the knife (gently), push it again – separating it from the nail. Now carefully trim with the cuticle with a nipper. This only needs to be done very occasionally. Take a minute to massage the hands with some moisturiser and relax – manicures are an indulgence, so take your time! Massaging is great for making rough skin silky smooth and for those who have arthritis as it can relieve aches.

STEP THREE Apply a small amount of buffing cream (or any moisturising cream), to the nail, and buff with a leather or soft buffer. Follow this up by gently buffing the nails with the rough buffer, which will smooth ridges and even out nails. Wipe over with nail varnish remover. Stop and admire your shiny, beautiful nails! STEP FOUR Now it’s up to you. You can get creative and paint them or you can leave them as they are – but painting keeps them looking shiny for longer. If you always paint them, you should always use a base coat. Dark colours such as red, black or blue can stain the nail which (unless you absolutely love the colour) probably isn’t the best idea. Paint on your base coat, wait a second or two, paint two coats of your chosen colour then wait another minute or two and paint on a top coat. Top coats add even more shine whilst reducing chipping and flaking. There you have it – a salon style manicure for next to nothing! For more details and for more help and advice on keeping your nails in tip-top condition, contact Aphrodite Nails and Beauty at 25 Tower Place, King’s Lynn, Norfolk. Tel: 01553 691816

Best Buy

Need to know Hot stone massage A

Hot Stone Massage doesn’t sound like a relaxing, therapeutic treatment (in fact it sounds painfully medieval) but after you’ve tried it you’ll be wanting one every day. As the name suggests, the therapy uses warm stones to massage the body. The basalt lava stones are smooth to the touch and resemble black pebbles of varying sizes and weights. Which stones are used depends on the person and their particular problem area. Ainlee Raines is a qualified treatment therapist at the Imagine Spa, Knights Hill. “The treatment we do here at the spa is really popular for its relaxing properties,” she says, “but the stones also allow us to massage deep down which can help to relieve back ache and tension.” One stone is placed at the base of the spine to gently heat the body, aiding the relaxation of the muscles while therapeutic oils are worked into the skin. “We use Ginkgo Biloba, Green Tea and Ginseng oil at Imagine, which have an oriental sweet and spicy aroma.” Any stress is instantly relieved as the swirling movements and enlightening aromas ease the mind and body. For more details, contact Imagine Health & Spa at Best Western Knights Hill Hotel, South Wootton, King’s Lynn. Tel: 01553 670991

Sally Hansen Mega Shine Top Coat £6.45 (Boots)

Micro-diamond formula makes this the best product around for a shiny, fresh-painted look – and it’s tough too, making it perfect for women wanting tip-top condition all day long. Even better, nails feel stronger after a few weeks use, making this an all-round winner!

KLmagazine October 2010

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In the surgery...

Eczema

What is it? Also known as dermatitis, eczema is a dry skin condition and can vary in severity from person to person. There are many different types, atopic eczema, a genetic condition, being the most common. It’s appearance is usually in the form of dry, red and scaly, itchy patches. Scratching can lead to areas bleeding or weeping and becoming very sore or even infected. Treatments Doctors prescribe emollients (noncosmetic moisturisers), which soothe and moisturise the skin and also help to reduce the itchiness. These can also come in the form of soap substitutes for washing and bathing. If you have eczema, you should avoid using perfumed cosmetics and washing powder products as these can irritate the skin further. If the eczema is severe and the skin is inflamed or damaged, your GP may decide to prescribe ‘topical’ (applied to the skin) steroids to speed up healing. Some people also use complementary therapies such as aromatherapy to help ease the condition.

KLmagazine October 2010

FactFile

ABOVE: Eczema can be very diﬃcult to live with, but several treatments are available and the condition is now well understood

More information

There are over 5 million sufferers in the UK. It is not contagious. Eczema is more common in children than adults. Dust and heat are both irritants. Atopic eczema often occurs in people who are prone to allergies Eczema often accompanies hay fever or asthma. National Eczema Society Hill House, Highgate Hill London N19 5NA Helpline: 0800 089 1122 Website: www.eczema.org

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Employment Law

Written by Andrea Craig, Partner

Q A

I have a dispute with an employee. I know that she does not wish to go through formal Tribunal procedures. Is there any way that I can deal with the dispute without having to issue any formal proceedings?

You may be interested to know about the Acas Pre-Claim Conciliation Service. From October 2009 this service has been extended to cover all matters that could be referred to an Employment Tribunal. In order to make use of the service, either yourself or your employee would telephone the Acas helpline on 08457 474747. If you have tried to resolve a dispute by making use of your disciplinary and grievance procedures and this has not been successful and you feel that the matter is likely to end in a formal ET claim, then the conciliation process may be appropriate for you. Acas report that up until the end of December 2009 there have been over 6,000 referrals from the helpline to Acas conciliators, and that approximately 40% of the referrals have been resolved without Employment Tribunal proceedings being required. If for whatever reason the Acas conciliators cannot help you reach an agreement, then your employee would still be able to take the matter to an Employment Tribunal. Full details of the Pre-Claim Conciliation Service can be found on the Acas website (www.acas.org.uk).

Q A

Am I entitled to legal representation at an internal disciplinary hearing?

You are entitled to be accompanied at an internal disciplinary hearing by a fellow worker or a trade union representative. This right is a legal right. Your contract of employment might extend the people who can accompany you, but it cannot remove your legal right to be accompanied. It has been generally accepted that it is inappropriate to have legal representation at internal disciplinary hearings. If an employee brings a lawyer then the employer will probably respond by bringing their lawyer, and the procedure then turns into a hearing rather than part of the internal investigatory process. However, the Court of Appeal has recently decided that in circumstances where an individual might have their right to practice as a professional taken away from them as a result of the disciplinary hearing, that person should be aďŹ&#x20AC;orded an opportunity to be legally represented. This case involved a teaching assistant who could have been placed on a barred list as a result of the serious allegations made against him, and in those

circumstances the Court determined that he should be entitled to be allowed legal representation at the internal disciplinary or appeal hearing. This is a very narrow extension of the right to be accompanied, and it will not apply to most disciplinary procedures.

This questions and answers page aims to supply general information, but it is not intended to constitute advice. Every effort is made to ensure that the law referred to is correct at the date of publication and to avoid any statement which may mislead. However no duty of care is assumed to any person and no liability is accpeted for any omission or innacuracy. Always seek our specific advice.

If you require advice on any other legal matter, please contact Hayes + Storr on 01553 778900

KLmagazine October 2010

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

PETS

Small bites This will make you think – and itch! In just 21 days, a single flea can become 1,000 fleas. And if you find a flea on your pet, then I’m afraid you almost certainly have flea eggs in your home and you need to act as soon as possible. There are lots of different treatments available, but you need something that actually kills the fleas and then stops any eggs from hatching in your house. Talk to your vet and they can tailor a product to your individual needs – so instead of wasting money on less effective treatments, you can beat the fleas quickly and economically. STOP PRESS! You’ll find many flea treatment products on special offer throughout September and October. Call your vet and arrange a flea consultation – these are usually free.

PetProblems Q

My dog’s breath is really unpleasant and especially awful when he’s in the car with me in hot weather. Should I be brushing his teeth and will this help at all? MRS J MILLER Dereham, Norfolk

ABOVE: Even with three members missing from the picture, it’s easy to see why The Dallas Gang keeps Alex on his toes when he’s not at work!

Alex is here to help you and your pets...

Tooth brushing can certainly help, but can be difficult with some pets. There are products available you can add to food and drinking water which help considerably, and anything that encourages extra chewing (especially using the back teeth) are very good. The starting point is to arrange a free dental check up with a veterinary nurse to assess the extent of any problem and guide you to the most effective dental care programme. I hope that helps! ALEX

KL magazine welcomes Alex Dallas to the team – and it’s good news for pets all over West Norfolk!

y name is Alex Dallas and I’ve been a veterinary surgeon in King’s Lynn for over 28 years. In fact, I first came to West Norfolk in 1979 as a student and enjoyed the area so much (and was made so welcome) that when the chance came I returned and have made this my home. I’ve found the people in and around King’s Lynn to be passionate about their pets, understanding the great pleasure and companionship that these additional family members bring. At the London Road Veterinary Centre we appreciate this bond and take great care to treat your pets as we would treat our own. Currently I share my home with Hattie the flat-coated retriever, Reggie and Isa who are border terriers, and five ginger cats. In my line of work pet ownership is simply a natural choice and the pleasure I get from my gang is so rewarding.

KLmagazine October 2010

Keeping them all fit and well takes a little time but worming, defleaing and regular injections are all planned out on a chart. Additionally we feed good food and so have very little teeth troubles or urinary tract problems. In particular we monitor their weight closely which really helps keep them fit and active. Through KL magazine over the coming months I’m going to help you care for your pets, with advice on basic care and detailed answers to more complicated problems. For anyone considering a pet for the first time, I’d be happy to oﬀer advice before you take on a new friend. We are a town of caring pet owners, and I would like this column to celebrate that. I want to hear from you about your pets, stories about them, photos of them and each month I’ll answer any questions you may have about health issues. I want to help you help your pets stay happy and healthy. KL

Your pets This month’s pet is Lilly the lurcher, who belongs to Melonie who works with me at the London Road Veterinary Centre. Send me pictures of your pets – the funnier the better! – to Animal Matters at KL magazine, 37 Broad Street, King’s Lynn PE30 1DP or e-mail them to editorial@klmagazine.co.uk

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LOCAL LIFE

ABOVE: Darkness brings out the mysterious side of King’s Lynn – and its rich tradition of legends

The Ghosts of King’s Lynn... With Halloween fast approaching, we thought it appropriate to investigate the darker side of King’s Lynn. Slightly wary ourselves, we sent Ann Weaver out on a local ghost hunt...

est Norfolk has countless historic buildings and ancient monuments, all with their own fascinating stories of days and people gone by. So it’s little surprise there are so many reports of paranormal activities and ghostly sightings around the towns and villages of the region. The Paranormal Database (a national project that

documents hauntings) has listings of 14 locations in King’s Lynn alone. Some of the strangest and weirdest things to make us shudder in our region aren’t ghosts or apparitions at all – they’re the legends and tales passed down through the ages with some alleged evidence still visible today. Here are eight of the spookiest locations in King’s Lynn for you to visit this Halloween.

THE WITCH’S HEART Tuesday Market Place This well-known legend in the town exists in many forms and centres around the engraved symbol of a heart in a diamond above the window number 15/16 on the Tuesday Market Place. The most common tale is of a woman called Mary Smith, who was alleged to have been a witch and was executed in 1616 in the Tuesday Market Place. She is said to have cursed her employer after being accused of stealing a hen. When her accuser (Elizabeth Hancock) then fell ill, Mary Smith’s fate was eﬀectively sealed. Some say she was burned at the stake, while others say she was hanged – but whichever form her punishment took, she is said to have proclaimed her innocence while dying and her heart leapt from her body. Whether it became embedded in the spot where the symbol is today, or bounced down a nearby lane and into the Ouse isn’t clear. It’s said that the man who condemned her lived in the house at the time, but how the ‘witch’s heart’ became etched on the brick is a mystery to this day.

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THE DEVIL’S FOOTPRINT Devil’s Alley (oﬀ Nelson Street) This appropriately-named historic alley is said to be the site where Satan became angry and stamped on the ground, leaving his footprint in the ground. Sadly, we’ve walked the length of the alley and have to conclude the mark must have been cobbled over at some point in the past as there’s nothing remotely resembling a footprint, Satanic or not.

THE WHITE HART MONK The White Hart, St James Street This pub plays host to tales of a dark, cloaked figure that’s thought to be the ghost of a monk. Legend says there are bricked up tunnels under the building linking the White Hart to St Margaret’s Church – and that this is where the figure comes from. Pub owner Bob George thinks it may not be a monk after all, as more recent sightings have been of a woman in white. Mr George hasn’t seen the ghost himself but says that on a number of occasions his staﬀ have experienced glasses falling from shelves without explanation.

THE MONK IN THE LIBRARY King’s Lynn Public Library This landmark building stands on the site of a former monastery, but being a 20th century construction it’s thought to be haunted by one of the earlier occupiers of the site – namely one of the Grey Friars. It’s reported that many staﬀ have refused to go into the basement alone, havng experienced the distinct feeling of someone else being in there.

THE LADY IN WHITE The Tudor Rose Hotel, 11 Nicholas Street A ghostly presence has been seen and heard here by a number of people at diﬀerent times over the years. The most common story surrounds a ghostly woman in white, supposedly murdered by her new husband on her wedding day. She is said to be seen returning to the spot where the dreadful deed was committed.

If you have a true-life ghost story (or photograph), contact features@klmagazine.co.uk KLmagazine October 2010

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KLmagazine October 2010

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LOCAL LIFE THE LADY IN RED AND ROOM 18 The Duke’s Head Hotel Two unconnected phenomena are linked with this 17th century hotel. The first – the famous Lady in Red – has been seen to roam the corridors and staircases in a long red dress. AccordIng to legend, her sorrow at having to choose between two lovers drove her to hang herself in the hotel. The other ghostly story is focused on a bedroom – specifically Room 18 – in which a young man attempted to commit suicide, by jumping out of the window (he died later in the room from his injuries). Many guests have reported the sound of deathly moaning coming from Room 18 and although none of the current staﬀ have seen anything mysterious, night porters have often heard the sound of cups rattling when nobody is there. Only last year a guest complained to the receptionist after staying in the haunted room. He told how he was awoken in the night and felt a heavy force pushing down on his chest and neck, making it diﬃcult for him to breathe. Needless to say, he asked to be moved!

QUEEN ISABELLA Castle Rising The wife of King Edward II, Queen Isabella had a lover called Roger Mortimer who led an army against the King, and won. The King was imprisoned the Queen ordered one of her men to murder him. The son of King Edward II and Queen Isabella then took to the throne and became King Edward III in 1330 – he had Mortimer executed and his mother imprisoned for treachery, and she was never seen in public again. The solitude is supposed to have sent her mad and her screams and laughter are said to be heard throughout the castle at night.

KLmagazine October 2010

MRS BUCKLEY The Exorcist’s House (8 Chapel Lane) Despite the name, this small cottage doesn’t house the ghost of an exorcist. A certain Mr and Mrs Buckley lived in the property for a number of years, and on the death of Mr Buckley his widow sold the house and moved abroad, dying herself soon afterwards. The new owner of the property kept the house empty for some years, during which time his two step-daughters visited the house and both saw the ghost of a lady sitting in the living room. They described the woman to their step-father who recognised her to be Mrs Buckley. It’s unknown how the house earned its creepy title.

If you know of a haunted spot that’s not listed here or you have a ghost story of your own, contact us at KL magazine, 37 Broad Street, King’s Lynn or send an e-mail to features@klmagazine.co.uk 53

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ARTS

ABOVE: Artist Cecilia Evans in her Burnham Market studio – “my work is rooted in psycho-geography,” she says

From garden sheds to psycho-geography Local artist Cecilia Evans takes her inspiration from her North Norfolk surroundings – from pillboxes and bunkers to the sheds on her allotment. Charlotte Thorneycroft spoke to her about her art...

ecilia Evans describes herself as a creative person, having been interested in the arts for as long as she can remember. In 1984 she began her career as a teacher and director at the London Academy of Performing Arts coaching many well known actors in her time there. Despite enjoying the theatrical side of this work, Cecilia’s love of art was always at the forefront of her mind. When in 1999 her husband suggested she pursue her ultimate passion, she was delighted to take him up on his word and enrolled on the City Literary Institute’s Foundation Course in Fine Art.

Cecilia then continued her art studies at the Metropolitan University gaining a BA in Fine Art. During this time it became evident Cecilia had a talent that had been unlocked and she’d also found a medium which she was to use for the majority of her work. “When I realised how in tune I had become with printmaking I knew I had to continue my studies of this further,” she says. “I applied to The Royal College of Art in 2004 and was absolutely ecstatic when I was accepted onto their MA course in Printmaking.” Since leaving the Royal College in 2007

her work has been exhibited in Norfolk, London and even New York. “I’ve been amazed just how quickly things have developed,” she continues. “Of course, with any exhibition a huge amount of work has gone into it – and when someone commends you it’s a wonderful feeling. However, I remember one exhibition I did whilst at the Royal College of Art, when I was as shocked as I was pleased by one lady’s admiration. I’d done a selection of digital prints based on geometric models I’d made, expressing the patterns of military pillboxes. The lady in question was so captured by the images she asked to buy all of them – my whole

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exhibition! It really took me by surprise. But it also goes to show how art can evoke such passion within a person – a strong connection was made that day and she knew she had to have them at home.” Aside from her printmaking, Cecilia enjoys the outdoor life, particularly walking and her allotment – both of which have inspired some of her most recent works. Many walks along the North Norfolk coast have allowed her glimpses of military architecture in the form of pillboxes and bunkers hidden from view by the landscape around them. “My work is rooted in psycho-geography,” explains Cecilia, “which is the impact of the built environment on the senses. When I look at these military structures it’s as if nature has begun to consume them – they’re disappearing from sight, but even those still visible seem to be devoid of purpose now, making them eerie yet intriguing. For me, immediately obvious was their inward-looking perspectives suggesting diminishing visual fields and surveillance – and this is what is expressed in my prints.” From her studio in Burnham Market Cecilia puts together the elements that create the finished pieces – looking, reflection and research. There’s a variety of diﬀerent subjects and styles each with their own reasoning and ultimately provoking their own thoughts. In contrast to the sinister-looking pillbox prints are images capturing the beauty and enchantment of the dilapidated sheds at her local allotments. The pretty lino prints are done in bright yet gentle colours with bold black and white lines enhancing the form. “They’re cute and charming like the sheds themselves,” says Cecilia. “All of them are falling apart – some more than others – but they each have a special place in someone’s heart as their personal retreat on the allotments. It’s nice to have work that’s fun but still has a meaning.” Cecilia sums up her work in an eloquent quote by Paul Virilio: “Only if we rediscover the invisible covered by the visible can we see the world”. KL

See the show ABOVE: Some striking examples of the work of Cecilia Evans – showing her use of bold lines and bright colours

KLmagazine October 2010

The shed prints will feature prominently in Cecilia’s latest exhibition this month at The Greyfriars Art Space, 43 St James Street, King’s Lynn, Norfolk. The exhibition runs from 4th-30th October.

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= Outstanding and challenging 6,609 yard course designed by Peter Alliss and Dave Thomas = Superb year-round playing conditions = Fully-stocked Pro shop and PGA Professional = Golfmark accredited Club = Full calendar of golfing and social events For more details and an application form to join King’s Lynn Golf Club, please contact Matthew Bowman on 01553 631654 or e-mail secretary@kingslynngc.co.uk

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In addition to being one of the most popular names (and voices) on television, Peter Alliss is an accomplished writer whose credits include the series of Bedside Golf books, Peter Alliss – An Autobiography, The Who’s Who Of Golf, Peter Alliss’ Golf Heroes and a novel published in 1983 – The Duke. His definitive autobiography, called My Life, was published in October 2004. Among the many golf courses Peter has designed and constructed in partnership with David Thomas is The Belfry at Sutton Coldfield, the national headquarters of the PGA and a Ryder Cup venue.

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ARTS

Review Despicable Me in 3D (U) Majestic Cinema, King’s Lynn From 15th October

Christine Glass

CINEMA

GIGS

PICTURE CREDIT: UNIVERSAL/OUTNOWCH

3D is everywhere at the moment, and with the success of children’s films such as Toy Story 3 in 3D over the summer, more are set to follow. Universal’s new animation Despicable Me is set around a suburban neighbourhood where all is not as it seems. In one house the despicable Gru and his minions (who like everything evil) are planning his biggest heist ever – to steal the moon. What he isn’t planning on is meeting the three little orphan girls who want him as their dad. A great half-term film for children and parents alike.

NEW READ

Life and Laughing Michael McIntyre (published 14th October 2010) The hilariously funny comedian has written his autobiography titled the same as his debut tour and it’s bound to be on the best seller list. In this honest book he tells of his journey from a public school boy to being one of the most well-known comedians around today. In 2009 he won the British Comedy Award for Best Live Stand-up Act and he has his own BBC1 show. Just like the man himself, the book promises to be full of titillating laughter and chuckles.

PICTURE CREDIT: MARIANNE HARRIS

D LOCAL REA

Deaf Havana The Waterfront, Norwich (November 1st, 7pm) A very ‘rock’ King’s Lynn band who’ve played all over the UK and Europe gaining many followers and being nominated for the Kerrang! Best British Newcomer 2010. This is a great chance to catch the opening of their headline tour, which continues around the country until 9th November.

KLmagazine October 2010

Death Watch Jim Kelly Who knew King’s Lynn held so much mystery? Shaw and Valentine are two mismatched detectives investigating the murder of a man whose charred remains are found in the incinerator at the local hospital. Could his death have anything to do with his sister’s disappearance 18 years earlier? Although the plot is intricate it will have you hooked to the end with its intriguing characters. Local places make the novel even more gripping for anyone from the area – and if you like your murder mysteries, you won’t be disappointed with this cleverly-paced novel.

SEEN IT? READ IT? HEARD IT? Let us know and we’ll share it with our readers. Even better, if you’ve got a forthcoming publication or release you’d like to publicise, e-mail the details to us at features@klmagazine.co.uk

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KLmagazine October 2010

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MEET THE HEAD

Lessons for the future... As the King’s Lynn Academy welcomes its first students and a new dawn breaks for education in West Norfolk, Charlotte Thorneycroft talks to principal Alison Ross about her plans for the future...

n July, Park High School on Queen Mary Way closed its doors to pupils and staﬀ for the last time after 70 years, making way for a new beginning in the form of The King’s Lynn Academy. These superschools are popping up all over the country in an attempt to reform the teaching systems of failing town schools. As well as covering the National Curriculum, the new Academy specialises in Mathematics and Enterprise, using new teaching approaches to raise achievement in these areas. Working closely with local businesses and industry will enable both pupils and the wider community to benefit. An experienced head teacher from Lincolnshire who’s also a National Leader of Education has been appointed interim principal for King’s Lynn Academy. Here, Alison Ross tells us more about her teaching career and her new role in King’s Lynn.

KL: What’s your specialist subject? AR: That’s a diﬃcult one! I’d have to answer in the plural and say my specialist subjects are History , English, Drama and Russian Politics.

KL: What do you do when the going-home bell rings? AR: Generally, I’ll review the day and make plans for tomorrow – and then I’ll be going home to my family.

KL: What do you like best about your job? AR: I’ve always loved the variety teaching offers you, and I find working together with the local community to make a difference is the most rewarding aspect of my work. KL: How would you describe the King’s Lynn Academy? AR: It’s a very exciting development and a great opportunity to provide first-class education for the 21st century. The young people here deserve the best, and that’s what the Academy aims to offer.

KL: What’s the best thing about West Norfolk? AR: I think it’s the desire and ambition of the local population to improve and enhance on what they have. It’s a great incentive to work harder. KL: What’s the most important thing you can teach a pupil? AR: I would have to say knowledge, leadership and aspiration – because that’s the motto (KLA) of our Academy.

KL: Tell us something unique about your school...

KL: What’s your vision of the future for King’s Lynn Academy?

Alison Ross: Although it doesn’t feel like it, I’ve been teaching for over 25 years within a range of mixed comprehensives and selective schools.

AR: The Academy oﬀers us the opportunity to be innovative and creative within an educational environment, working collaboratively to provide a centre of excellence and lifelong learning within King’s Lynn.

AR: I’m determined to ensure we are recognised nationally as a centre for educational excellence and an outstanding academy for students of all abilities. KL

KL: What made you become a teacher in the first place?

KL: What’s the greatest challenge facing your school today?

AR: I always had the ambition to work with young people and I had (and still have) a genuine desire to help them to achieve their full potential.

AR: Undoubtedly, it’s ensuring we deliver our promises to all our students within the current economic climate.

KL magazine: How long have you been teaching?

KLmagazine October 2010

Details

For more information and the latest news on the Academy, visit www.kingslynnacademy.co.uk

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PICTURE: KING’S LYNN GOLF CLUB/IAN WARD

SPORT

PICTURE: KING’S LYNN GOLF CLUB/DAVD WOOTON

KL magazine: How did you become interested in golf and when? HOWARD: I was about 40 and it was my son who suggested we have lessons. Working as a civil engineer and having a young family I’d not had time to do anything like that before, so we went along and I’ve been hooked ever since! SUSAN: I didn’t start till I was 51. All our friends already played golf so I decided to join the club for the social life. I felt I should give it a try and so booked myself in for a lesson with the pro. I thought if I’m not any good I’ll give up – but I loved it. Golf is very addictive.

ABOVE: Howard Maylard, the 2010 Men’s Captain at King’s Lynn Golf Club

Tee time with the Captains... What’s it like being Captain of your golf club for the year? King’s Lynn Golf Club’s Susan Griﬃn and Howard Maylard tell us about it... Set in the picturesque countryside near the village of Castle Rising, King’s Lynn Golf Club boasts a magnificent course that’s comparable with the finest in the country and provides a challenging round for golfers of all abilities. KL magazine met up with both Captains for 2010 to discover more about life at one of Norfolk’s most prestigious golf clubs...

KL magazine: What do you do when you’re not golfing? HOWARD: Not a lot this year as being Captain is a full-time job. I’m here at the club at least 5 days a week but it’s not all fun on the fairway – at lot of the time I’m in meetings or carrying out committee business. For the year you’re in the position of Captain everything is golf. SUSAN: I’m a bit the same, I’m here at least 3 days a week organising things for the ladies and such like. When I do have a spare moment I like gardening and knitting and I also enjoy doing voluntary work for local groups. KL magazine: What’s the best course you’ve played – apart from King’s Lynn Golf Club? HOWARD: Carnoustie in Scotland – it’s a long open course and it was really diﬃcult. SUSAN: Crans Montana – it’s a beautiful golf course in Switzerland, set on a mountain. The views whilst we played were spectacular. KL magazine: What’s your favourite hole at King’s Lynn course – other than the 19th? HOWARD: I can’t choose a favourite because it varies each time I play. They’re all so diﬀerent on the course here. SUSAN: The 8th has always appealed to me, but the 13th is my favourite. It’s completely KLmagazine October 2010

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straight, with 2 ditches – and although it’s challenging, it’s the first hole I ever reached par on. KL magazine: What makes a good golfer? HOWARD: Practice, patience and focus. It’s so important to have lessons too. Unless you get the basics right you’ll never play properly – and even the best players have topup lessons to keep on track. SUSAN: Having the right attitude and accepting there will be bad days. In every game, one hole will prove diﬃcult but don’t get frustrated, stay focused and enjoy your round.

KL magazine: What’s your best golfing achievement? HOWARD: I won the final of a series of competitions at Muirfield – it was already set up for the Open the following month and I won by 3 points. SUSAN: The biggest achievement for me was being asked to be the Lady’s Captain – it’s a real honour to have been chosen. KL magazine: Does the club take part in any competitions? HOWARD: The men have various competitions such as the County Knockout Championships, the Scratch League and also senior and junior competitions. These are team events, but some members of the Club who are very good also enter individual amateur competitions at regional and even national level. We’re seeing more youngsters joining and our juniors are excellent. They were the English Club Champions a few years ago. SUSAN: The ladies have two league teams – one in Division 2 and the other in Division 6 of the Norfolk League. We also take part in lots of friendlies with surrounding counties and often do very well. Within the club we organise a number of competitions such as the Lady, Man and Junior which is made up of 12 teams each with three members, and the Men versus Women – both of which are great fun and there’s lots of banter as you can imagine.

KLmagazine October 2010

ABOVE: Susan Griﬃn, the 2010 Ladies Captain at King’s Lynn Golf Club

PICTURE: KING’S LYNN GOLF CLUB/IAN WARD

KL magazine: Who is your golfing hero? HOWARD: For me it has to be Nick Faldo. He was just making a name for himself when I started and he won 6 majors around the same time. I admire his focus and dedication. SUSAN: Lee Westwood. He has such a good temperament and doesn’t get annoyed like some of the other big names do. If he has a bad shot, he just smiles and gets on with it.

PICTURE: KING’S LYNN GOLF CLUB/DAVD WOOTON

KL magazine: Have you ever had a hole in one? HOWARD: Yes – 3 times actually! One on the 5th, followed by another four weeks later on the 16th and again on the 16th exactly a year after. SUSAN: Not yet – though I’ve had a few close misses.

More information...

Anybody wanting to become a member needs to apply and be proposed and seconded by two current members. They then have to visit the Club for an interview with representatives of the Committee – as much for propsective members to discover more about the Club as anything else. There are rules and etiquette to follow (the same as any golf club), but it’s certainly not stuffy and the atmosphere is always very welcoming. You can contact King’s Lynn Golf Club by calling 01553 631654 or by sending an e-mail to secretary@kingslynngc.co.uk

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SPORT

At a glance

Try something new: HORSE RIDING ABOVE: Riding is a great way to broaden your horizons – and make some new friends!

Fun on four legs As a new activity, riding can be really rewarding, as Charlotte Thorneycroft discovers...

umans have been riding horses for centuries, millenniums even, so you’d think it’s a sport we’d all take to like a duck to water. Well no, unfortunately it’s not a case of jumping on and off you go. Horse riding takes time and effort to master but once you have the hang of it there’s plenty of enjoyment to be had. Whether plodding leisurely through leafy country lanes, or galloping along the sandy beaches as the wind whips against your face – there’s few better ways to enjoy our beautiful Norfolk landscape than on horseback. But first you have to learn the basics – how to get on and off your mount, how to hold the reins (yes, there is a correct way!), and most importantly how to balance in the saddle. Easy you say? Well, you’d be amazed how many muscles are used and believe me it will become sorely apparent after your first go.

Wearing the right gear certainly helps when starting out and of course a hat is the most important piece of equipment to any rider. Although it’s not essential to buy your own when you first start (most riding schools should have spare hats you can borrow), it is advisable as there are no guarantees a borrowed hat hasn’t been damaged by a previous fall. Jodhpurs are trousers specifically for riding, but any comfortable trouser that covers the leg and is supple is suitable (not shorts or jeans). Riding boots are the best footwear to use, but to begin with any shoe or boot with a small heel (to avoid the foot slipping through the stirrup) is fine. So now you’re kitted out it’s time to find a riding school. When you phone round, you’ll probably be asked your height, weight and experience. Don’t be oﬀended – they’re not being rude and it’s important to be honest so they can match

Who is it for? Horse riding is for absolutely anyone – any age, any fitness, any ability. How much does it cost? Prices start from around £17 for a private 30-minute lesson, but you can get cheaper prices by having a group lesson. Who do I contact to find out more? The British Horse Society have all the information on riding you could need, including a list of riding schools in your area. Go to www.bhs.org.uk or call 0844 848 1666. The Riding for the Disabled Association have a wealth of information for disabled riders and can also give you details for RDA centres in your area. Visit www.rda.org.uk or call 0845 658 1082.

you to the most suitable horse for your requirements. The first lesson is always a bit daunting but stay relaxed and the horse will respond accordingly. Your instructor will take things very slowly as you find your feet and will walk alongside you leading your horse. Walking and stopping in a sandy school might not be how you pictured the romanticism of riding but with regular lessons you’ll soon be cantering along wooded bridleways. There are lots of diﬀerent disciplines in riding to try later on, such as show jumping, dressage or maybe even cross country. Getting involved with the care of the horses is equally rewarding and most riding schools will appreciate an extra pair of hands to groom or muck out. But whatever form of equestrianism you enjoy remember horses are wonderfully intelligent creatures and just being around them can be very therapeutic too. KL

KLmagazine October 2010

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