ISSUE 2016 ISSUE ONE… TWO …SUMMER EARLY AUTUMN 2017
LIVING IN
FELIXSTOWE The pier unveiled … athrow behind-the-scenes chat Local home owners… open their doors Crimefree pays … two meet local authors tellwith all the Parent Pod! Child zones?… the couple Term the newbies startingBrown school! Is greytime just … someet last year?… Jojo Humes on colours
YOURBRAND FABULOUS YOUR NEW FREE HOMES HOMES & & FREE LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE MAGAZINE LIFESTYLE
AUTUMN
IN FELIXSTOWE
W
e can hardly believe the summer holidays are over and we’re now on issue two of Living In … Felixstowe. A big thank you to everyone for their kind words when we launched at the start of July. We had such positive feedback including lots of comments from readers saying how proud it made them feel about their hometown. We hope you enjoy this edition as much we’ve enjoyed putting it together. It’s bursting with great stories about the people and places that make Felixstowe such a special place. With the kids back at school, we couldn’t miss the opportunity to meet up with two lovely youngsters who are starting new schools this term (see page seven). As mums, it brought tears to our eyes thinking about those nervewracking first few days at a new school. An interesting afternoon was spent in the company of two crime writers, both of whom call Felixstowe home. Telling their stories on pages eight and nine, Ruth and Jeannette explain where their inspiration comes from, their unique writing styles, and how they got the bug. We also spent a lovely day at the newly opened pier, chatting with charismatic owner Stan Threadwell and meeting visitors. Having read our first issue with interest, Dr Adrian Cooper got in touch to tell us more about the fantastic success story, which is the Felixstowe Community Nature Reserve. Up and running for less than two years, the scheme highlights how a few small steps, or in this case three square yards, can turn into giant leaps. Since publishing our first issue, we’ve also proudly launched our fabulous new website: www.livinginfelixstowe.co.uk. There you can read the latest and past editions of the magazine as well as catch up on some great guest blogs, the latest local news and events. If you’ve got a great story you’d like to share with us, please do get in touch. In the meantime, have a happy autumn!
Angela & Lyn ISSUE ONE… SUMMER 2016
LIVING IN
FELIXSTOWE
Editors: Angela Hagan (T: 07930 184773) & Lyn Peters (T: 07909 544496) Designers: Craig Drever and Lewis Webb info@livinginfelixstowe.co.uk www.livinginfelixstowe.co.uk Due East Media Ltd: 39 Seckford Street, Woodbridge, Suffolk IP12 4LY Registered in England number 10242873 Disclaimer: Whilst every care has been taken to ensure that the data in this publication is accurate, neither the publisher nor the editor, nor its editorial contributors can accept, and hereby disclaim, any liability to any party for omissions resulting from negligence, accident or any other cause. All artwork is accepted on the strict condition that permission has been given for us in this publication. Living In … Woodbridge does not officially endorse any advertising material included within this publication. All rights reserved. No parts of this publication may be reproduced, without prior permission of Due East Media Ltd.
Local home owners… throw open their doors Child free zones?… meet the couple with the Parent Pod! Is grey just so last year?… Jojo Humes Brown on colours
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WHAT’S INSIDE 7 A tale of two schoolchildren 8 Local authors on what inspires them 13 Back to nature 15 Meet the mayor 17 Beauty with Alice 18 Pier MD shows us around 26 Turning rubbish into hope
ON THE COVER
Jemma Watts is a food and culture photographer who recently moved to Suffolk from London. We’re delighted to run her stunning shot taken on the boardwalk of the newly refurbished Felixstowe Pier. She has photographed for top clients in publishing, design and advertising, and she now hopes to mix her work in London with work closer to her new home here in Suffolk. For more information on Jemma’s amazing work, go to www.jemmawatts.com ISSUE ONE… SUMMER ISSUE ONE… 2016SUMMER 2016
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ISSUE ONE… SUMMER 2016
LOCAL NEWS
IN THE DOG HOUSE!
Local home owners… throw open their doors Child free zones?… meet the couple with the Parent Pod! Is grey just so last year?… Jojo Humes Brown on colours
YOUR BRAND NEW FREE HOMES & LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE
Left: Slight change to the ban on dogs on beaches Below: Delicate ringed plovers fledge on the ground
Should we tighten the current rules on pooches in public spaces or are we barking up the wrong tree?
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uffolk Coastal District Council has invited the public to have their say on proposed changes in dog controls. Residents have until September 23rd to send in their views though the proposed new changes could divide opinion in the town. “This isn’t about banning dogs everywhere,” says Councillor Steve Gallant, cabinet member for Community Health, with responsibility for Community Safety. “It’s about replacing the existing laws to protect specific places where problems have been raised with a more effective way of ensuring people control nuisance dogs. For instance, the new proposals for Shingle Street and Landguard Point Nature Reserve are to protect the ground nesting birds.” This relates to the council’s proposal that owners keep dogs on a lead in the designated area at Landguard Nature Reserve as well as other new controls to protect ground nesting birds and other wildlife. Councillor Gallant says: “The vast majority of dog owners exercise their pets in a responsible manner, but we need to make sure we have measures in place to take action against those who do not.
“While there are some significant changes in some areas, there are only minor changes in others and some of the controls are staying the same; so we would ask that everyone read the proposals in detail.” Newer controls would also include owners having to keep their dogs on leads on roads, footpaths, verges as well as in sports grounds, cemeteries and allotments to name but a few. Another is to ban dogs from all fenced and gated children’s play areas in line with child health and safety. Proposed changes in the council’s Public Space Protection Orders (PSPOs) include banning dogs from designated areas of Felixstowe beach from May to September – these controls already exist but there is a slight change to the designated area. And they also include making it an offence not to clear up after your dog if it fouls in any open space in Suffolk Coastal – again, these controls already exist and are being translated into a PSPO.
WHAT’S BEING SAID ABOUT THE PROPOSED CHANGES THUMBS UP! Landguard Nature Reserve Ranger, Chris Ryde, says: “The PSPO that would cover the reserve is very welcome and something I have been pressing for over three years. It will turn the request for people to have their dogs on leads on half of the reserve to a must, otherwise a fixed penalty fine can be issued. The upshot will be less wildlife disturbed and more success with ground nesting birds.” THUMBS DOWN! Felixstowe resident and dog walker Jane Harris says: “Most responsible dog owners abide by the rules of the beach or nature reserve without making it all so legal. And do we really now have to be told that we can’t walk our dogs along busy roads without their leads on? I think we’re in danger of becoming a nanny state. I really think it’s a waste of public money to bring in even more rules and bureaucracy surrounding dogs.”
l To look at the proposals in full, go to www.eastsuffolk.gov.uk/news/ have-your-say-on-changes-to-dogcontrols ISSUE ONE… SUMMER 2016
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ISSUE ONE… SUMMER 2016
ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE
Local home owners… throw open their doors Child free zones?… meet the couple with the Parent Pod! Is grey just so last year?… Jojo Humes Brown on colours
FOODIE’S DELIGHT!
YOUR BRAND NEW FREE HOMES & LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE
The Hachette Bistro on the seafront is taking fine dining to a whole new level
T
he elegant Hachette Bistro is celebrating its first anniversary and for owner Jay Poole there’s much to be proud of. Not only is each dish lovingly prepared by two star-standard rosette chefs but the whole place has been beautifully renovated by perfectionist Jay who worked tirelessly to achieve his dream. It took him a year to completely renovate the former bar, and before that a Chinese restaurant, situated next door to the Cork pub. Now the opulent two-storey restaurant proudly offers an intimate restaurants.” experience with its sumptuous interior Jay says it was a defining moment and oodles of space. All designed by Jay it for him when he opened the doors of boasts a palette of cool greys, exposed Hachette Bistro at 129 brickwork, sleek Undercliff Road West lighting and views to last August having die for. It’s been a real “I’m really proud of fallen in love with the labour of love for town – he now lives dad-of-one Jay, who our chefs, they’re just 30 seconds away did a lot of the work creating some of from the restaurant. himself and used local “It was the perfect retailers to source the best food in position,” he says, vibrant furnishings. revealing that he also “I’ve always wanted Felixstowe” spent a long time to run my own bar head hunting top and restaurant, ever chefs locally. since I was a teenager working in the “What we’ve tried to do here is offer restaurant business,” he says. “This has modern British food with quirky twists. been a dream of mine for a long time.” For example, we make a posh fish and Jay certainly knows his stuff. Having chips with a minted mushy pea puree worked in the food industry from a young (pictured) - putting the mint in there gives age he then set up a highly successful it this amazing kick. We also make all our industrial cleaning business in his home own tartar sauce from fresh and many town of Southend in his early twenties. other condiments and sauces in-house. “We ended up cleaning the air Our chefs are exceptional.” conditioning systems of some of the Indeed they are: head chef Norman Ball biggest companies in Europe and it all came from Seckford Hall Hotel in snowballed, we grew very rapidly.” Woodbridge and he is no stranger to His work took him all over Europe and creating mouth-watering two star rosette for many years Jay lived out of hotels and standard food. Richard Castle, who also ate in the very best of restaurants – all came from Seckford Hall, is the pastry chef the time amassing knowledge for his at Hachette Bistro and he is responsible next venture. for the legendary desserts (pictured). “I developed this undying passion for “My third chef is my brother Daniel great food,” he says. “I’d steer clear of Poole who also comes with an extensive any chains and seek out the great
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background in five star hotels and fine dining,” says Jay. All in all he now has a winning team of ten working at Hachette and customers keep returning once they discover the high standard of food on offer at such reasonable prices too. “Everything is sourced locally, where we can,” adds Jay. “Our fish couldn’t be fresher; it comes from Springtide Fish in Felixstowe Ferry. In fact we source our meats and veg from within Suffolk, taking great pride in working with local suppliers especially around the town. I’m really proud of our chefs, they’re creating some of the best food in Felixstowe.” l To book a table call 01394 547257 or go to www.hachette-bistro.co.uk
ISSUE ONE… SUMMER 2016
FELIXSTOWE LIVES
School! Back to
Local home owners… throw open their doors Child free zones?… meet the couple with the Parent Pod! Is grey just so last year?… Jojo Humes Brown on colours
YOUR BRAND NEW FREE HOMES & LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE
Some say they’re the best years of your life! Here we meet two youngsters starting out at new schools in Felixstowe this term.
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“It was devastating,” he admits. t four years old little Zoe “The best thing about it was how Shuttleworth (pictured, the teachers would listen if you right) can barely contain had a problem and I also had a her excitement as she great group of friends. races around showing off her Mum Zoe Dawson explains smart new red and grey uniform. that Calum needed a bit more “I can’t wait to see my teacher support following a diagnosis of and be with my friends,” she ADHD (Attention Deficit squeals, as her older sister Phoebe, Hyperactivity Disorder). eight, and mum Amy marvel at how “He really struggled at first grown up she looks in her Trimley St and then he got diagnosed with Mary Primary School uniform. ADHD when he was six,” she Mum-of-two Amy wipes a tear recalls. “He was enthusiastic away as she says: “I got emotional about everything and they when Phoebe started but I’ll be couldn’t get him to sit and do doubly so with Zoe as she’s my one thing. But he’s now on baby!” medication and he’s come such But she’s forced to admit the a long way. He’s been on a real timing is absolutely right for little Zoe journey but I’m very proud of to start school. “At the beginning of him - he aced his Sats at the year I was thinking that maybe school.” she wasn’t ready to go to school this Calum, who is a whizz on year but during the last three computers and reckons his or four weeks at play school I “It’s all a bit nerve-wracking but favourite subject is science, realised she was ready. She’s says: “Having ADHD is a part really looking forward to going I’ve said to Calum as long as of who I am and I wouldn’t which helps.” you’re willing to learn and try change it.” Amy and husband Ed moved He’s delighted to have one house specially so both their your hardest it will be fi ne” good friend from primary girls could attend the local school in his new class and primary, which is one of the several others starting at the biggest in the area. Academy but says it’s otherwise “I went to the same school myself the end of an era. and so did my brother and sister,” “He was part of such a tight knit says Amy. “In fact my mum was a class,” says Zoe. “All the children dinner lady there! She started on the had been through nursery and day I started primary school – I pre-school together, so it was very stayed there until I went to high emotional leaving there. But I’m school so there’s a few faces there sure he’ll love it at the Felixstowe now who I fondly remember. It’s a Academy. lovely school; they make all the “It’s all a bit nerve-wracking but children feel so welcome.” I’ve said to Calum as long as you’re Calum Dawson Bushnell willing to learn and try your hardest (pictured, right) starts at Felixstowe it will be fine.” Academy this month having left Grange Community Primary l Good luck to Calum and little School last term. Calum, who is 11, Zoe – we’ll visit them this time says it was an emotional time next year to see how they’re both leaving the comfort blanket of such getting on. a great primary. ISSUE ONE… SUMMER 2016
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READ ALL ABOUT IT!
Meet two local best-selling crime writers – and discover exactly what inspires them
Ruth Dugdall-Marshall
“W
e moved to Felixstowe when I was 16 and my parents bought the Castle Lodge Hotel in Chevalier Road. It was a tricky age to be uprooted. I didn’t have any friends in town and both my sixth form and Saturday job were in Ipswich, so I went by train each day and when I arrived back my heart would sink. But how things change! Meeting Andrew was almost fated. We both studied at Warwick University at the same time, but didn’t meet there, we met in Ipswich and found out we were both from Felixstowe. After we married, we moved back, and now I love it. I’ve had to leave once (when we lived in Luxembourg for two years) and since doing this interview we’ve moved to California for two years for Andrew’s work. It breaks my heart to say goodbye again, but I know when we come home next time it will be to stay.
my second novel The Woman Before Me won the Debut Dagger (a competition for unpublished crime writers) in 2005 I decided to take the plunge. I resigned from probation, to see if I could make a go of being a novelist. I’ve just published my sixth novel, and I can finally say the gamble paid off, but it’s been a tough journey. I’ve worked on each of my novels for years. One reason is the rejections; even The Woman Before Me took five years to find a publisher, so I kept reworking it. The same is true for my latest novel, My Sister and Other Liars, which is set in Felixstowe at the Bartlet. For seven years it got rejected as being `too graphic’; my protagonist is anorexic, and I felt this subject needed addressing. I wasn’t prepared to change it, and so it was a long wait for the right publisher, but it was worth doing so as the book is being very well received.
“I can pick up a pen and notebook anywhere” I love this town, especially the beach. I never swim in the sea – I don’t handle the cold well – but I love to watch it and hear it. I often bike along the prom, and I never take the beauty of the town for granted. I’ve seen a lot of places, and none are ever quite as lovely as home. It’s the perfect place to raise kids, and we have two: Amber is 15 and Eden is 12. They both enjoy the freedom of living in a town this size, they can meet their friends, and go to the beach or park. When I was just 18, a local youth worker took me into Hollesley Bay to run some drama workshops with the inmates. That changed my life, as I then knew I wanted to work with criminals. When I qualified, I was the youngest probation officer in Suffolk, and really thought I would do the job for life. Writing didn’t seem anything more than a hobby, but when ISSUE ONE… SUMMER 2016
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It’s hit the number one spot on Amazon Kindle, which was something I never imagined happening, and a TV company has expressed interest. As I’m now a full-time writer I tend to work in the daytime, pretty much nine to five. I can pick up a pen and notebook anywhere but a favourite place to write is our conservatory, when it’s warm from the morning sun and squirrels are chasing each other across the fence outside. It’s idyllic, but once I get lost in my story I could just as easily be in a prison and it wouldn’t matter. In the evenings I often give talks, to WI or Rotary groups, and festivals would be at the weekend, but luckily for me, I enjoy the publicity side. The best bit about being an author is not having to get up in the morning and being able to work in my pyjamas!”
ISSUE ONE… SUMMER 2016
HOMEWORKERS
Jeanette Hewitt Local home owners… throw open their doors Child free zones?… meet the couple with the Parent Pod! Is grey just so last year?… Jojo Humes Brown on colours
YOUR BRAND NEW FREE HOMES & LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE
“H
aving been born and raised in Ipswich, I lived there until I was in my mid-20s, when I moved in with my partner, Darren, in Felixstowe. Four years ago we moved to Trimley, with our Alsatian/Collie cross, Buster, and I honestly can’t imagine living anywhere else now. Prior to my writing taking off, I was a fraud investigator in Ipswich, but the move to Felixstowe saw me switch profession and I now work in the haulage industry. Being a published author had always been my dream and in 2015 I won a ‘pitch’ competition as part of the BritCrime festival. The feedback and support I received led to me writing my debut crime fiction novel, Exclusion Zone. Just six months later, in April 2016, it was published. The success of that book and my follow-up, The Hunger Within, secured me a top London literary agent earlier this year and I’ve never looked back. My novels are usually based on actual events, normally from the 20th century, incorporating evocative settings and locations. My debut crime novel was based around the 1986 Chernobyl nuclear disaster; The Hunger Within explores life in 1980s Northern Ireland, specifically the 1981 hunger strikes in Long Kesh prison. Yet to be released is The Intelligence of Ravens, which is set during the Holocaust and in London’s post-war Soho. I think crime fiction is so popular as it covers so many sub-genres: mystery, police procedural, thriller, noir, cosy, whodunit, courtroom – there is something for everyone. Personally, I enjoy both reading and writing psychological thrillers, where the behaviours and workings of the characters can have just as much impact as the crime itself. My work usually explores the darker side of humans, and I think
people enjoy reading it because simple everyday happenings can turn into a catastrophe or a crime, and we all secretly enjoy the drama at the same time as thinking ‘thank goodness it’s not me / my life.’ When I’m writing, the first draft usually comes to me very quickly, within two or three months. Of course, then come the rewrites, the editing and more rewrites. There’s no one space in our home that I write. The loft conversion is ideal if I’m on deadline as there are no outside distractions but I also love writing in the dining room. In the summer months, all I want to do is be outside, tending to my garden and watching the different types of birds my feeders attract.
So, if it’s a fine day I might head outside with a notebook and get some pages written in longhand. Writing the old-fashioned way can be a great exercise, as you tend to see what you have written more
clearly due to the longer time it takes to get the words on the page. I always have Radio 2 for company, without fail. I utterly adore everything about living in Felixstowe. It’s great to have another crime fiction author living in the same town, and Ruth and I have enjoyed many occasions where we have teamed up. We make a good double act!
Opposite page, top to bottom: Right at home in Felixstowe; Our town is the setting for Ruth’s latest crime novel
“I really am living the dream. A dream I’ve held for 30 years” I live on the cusp of the Trimley Marshes nature reserve. I love this village so much that it makes an appearance in my upcoming novel, The Eight Year Lie. My protagonist is brought to live in Trimley from the South of France, a kind of punishment in her view. To bring the scenes to life I paid special attention to the sounds that I hear from my home all day long – sounds I hope I will never take for granted. These days I really am living the dream. A dream I’ve held for 30 years. Also, the people I work alongside – fellow authors, book bloggers, readers, editors, agents and publishers – these guys are among the most supportive, nicest people in any profession. With this tribe surrounding me, it feels like coming home.”
This page, above left: In the garden with best buddy Buster, who has sadly died since this photograph was taken Above: Jeanette started sending submissions to literary agencies as a teenager Left: Her work has topped charts around the world Pictures by Jemma Watts
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ISSUE ONE… SUMMER 2016
FELIXSTOWE LIVES
Local home owners… throw open their doors Child free zones?… meet the couple with the Parent Pod! Is grey just so last year?… Jojo Humes Brown on colours
WHERE THERE’S A WARP, THERE’S A
WEFT
We caught up with spinner and weaver Joanna Blyth to find out more about her love for these age-old crafts
Clockwise from top left: Joanna at her spinning wheel; weaving is ‘like painting with threads’; homespun skeins; Joanna wearing her hand-woven scarf Pictures by Lyn Peters and Carole Leonard
“Sometimes I don’t want to finish a piece, I just want it to keep going on and on”
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reative soul Joanna Blyth loves nothing more than spending time at her spinning wheel or loom, lost in thought as she spins her stunning skeins of wool, or weaves vibrant scarves and fabrics. A relative newcomer to Felixstowe, Joanna and her family, Steve, and sons Neo (13) and Maddox (six) moved to Holland Road last year, and the family couldn’t be happier. “I was born in Shotley and studied graphic design at Suffolk College, as it was known back then, so it’s a bit like coming home,” she says. Intervening years were spent in Wales, Bristol and Hastings, but Steve’s job brought them back to the area and, as Joanna says: “It’s great to be back, and living in Felixstowe is idyllic.” Always exploring different artistic mediums, and having completed a City & Guilds in Fashion, Joanna’s love for spinning started when she was asked to head up a knitting group in a vegan cafe when living in Hastings. “I returned to knitting after a long break when I started the group, and when I saw some fleeces on what was then Freecycle, an hour’s lesson on a spinning wheel followed. “From that I was hooked. It just came so naturally. “But, if you like to get things done in a hurry, spinning isn’t for you,” she laughs. “It takes me about 10 hours to spin a 100g skein of wool, so it’s a long process.” Spinning all types of fleece, Joanna also buys locally from a farmer in Bury St Edmunds. “I do my own dyeing too, using non-toxic acid dyes that are fixed with citric acid. “Then when I’m spinning I like to add a little something special, perhaps some cashmere or silk for that added luxury.” Since taking up weaving in 2009, three years after spinning, Joanna has learnt much about her passion from fellow crafts folk. “I consider myself a modern weaver and so it
YOUR BRAND NEW FREE HOMES & LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE
seems appropriate that I’ve been supported and inspired by so many likeminded people on social media.” Likening weaving to painting with threads, Joanna loves the fact that every piece of wool she weaves or spins has passed through her fingers numerous times. “Again, there’s nothing quick about weaving. It’s very grounding and I always feel connected to weavers in the past, undertaking the same process as they did way back when. “People often ask how long it takes me to make a scarf, for example, but the time is irrelevant. It’s about being in the moment and enjoying what I’m doing. Sometimes I don’t want to finish a piece, I just want it to keep going on and on.” Recently, Joanna asked town residents for their help to become an ambassador for Mirrix Looms, which are used for tapestry weaving and beadwork. “To become an ambassador, I needed over 500 followers on Instagram, but had fewer than 200,” she says. “I was overwhelmed by the support I received on Facebook – I’ve now got well over 500 followers and have applied to join the ambassador programme. If successful, I’ll be given a loom to use, and have to post my efforts on social media to encourage more people to give weaving a go. Fingers crossed I’ll be successful, and should hear in September.” Proudly wearing a top sewn from her own handwoven fabric, Joanna adds: “We’re very lucky. We live a stone’s throw from the sea and I spend my days doing what I love. Life in Felixstowe is very good.” l Joanna can be contacted via Facebook and items are for sale at her Etsy shop, Limegreenjelly. l Fellow Felixstowe weaver Cherrie Stevens also offers weaving courses, and can be contacted via Facebook at Weaverbyrd Hand Weaving and Textile Art Studio. ISSUE ONE… SUMMER 2016
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MARLESFORD MILL ANTIQUE CENTRE Home to a fabulously eclectic mix of antiques, collectables and decorative wares, Marlesford Mill has two floors of constantly changing stock. A great one-stop shop for furnishing a home with affordable style and individuality, it has glass, mirrors, furniture, costume jewellery, clothes, vinyl, upholstery, kitchenalia and garden furniture, with bespoke furniture made on site. On the main A12 route from London to Norfolk, it is open every day from 10:00am to 5:00pm
Tel: 01728 748076 | www.marlesfordmill.co.uk | Main Road (A12), Marlesford, IP13 0AG
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ISSUE ONE… SUMMER 2016
NATURE
Local home owners… throw open their doors Child free zones?… meet the couple with the Parent Pod! Is grey just so last year?… Jojo Humes Brown on colours
YOUR BRAND NEW FREE HOMES & LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE
THE POWER
OF 3 SQUARE YARDS! Conservationist Dr Adrian Cooper proves you don’t need a huge area to create a stunning nature reserve Pictures by Adrian Cooper
I
t was during the election of 2015 that frustration spilled into action for local wildlife campaigner Dr Adrian Cooper. The author, BBC broadcaster and lecturer was concerned none of the political parties featured the significant decline in bee and other wildlife populations in their manifestos. His passion spurred him on to create a unique project, the Felixstowe Community Nature Reserve. He explains: “After the election result was announced, I started talking and listening with people from local government, as well as everyday people from the Felixstowe community,” he says. “In fact, I spent the months until October 2015, listening and learning about what might be possible, and gathering a small team of volunteers. “Most people understood that wildlife populations in Felixstowe were falling, and wanted to help, but they simply did not know how. “Embracing Facebook, my partner, Dawn Holden, and I started to advise local people about wildlife-friendly plants. Three times a week we posted about plants loved by nature – from buddleia, to lavender and rowan trees – and things took off from there.” It was obvious to Adrian that getting hold of a single plot of land for any kind of nature reserve project in the Felixstowe area would be lengthy and far too complicated. “Getting involved had to be made
as simple as possible and so we redefined what a nature reserve could be,” he says. That was where the idea of three square yards was born. Felixstowe’s Community Nature Reserve is a scheme which encourages gardeners and allotment owners to allocate at least three square yards of their land to be used for wildlife-friendly plants, ponds and insect lodges. Adrian says: “Three square yards might not sound a lot, but in three-to-five years our hope is that our community nature reserve will see 1,666 people involved, donating a total of 5,000 square yards, which is the same size as a football pitch.” Since 2015, over 800 messages have been received from local people sharing news they’ve bought and planted at least one of the plants Adrian has recommended. And the project is rapidly growing – from out of the county too! The Leicestershire villages of Cosby and Burbage have copied the idea and created their own community nature reserves, having read about Felixstowe’s efforts online. “And we’ve had enquiries from people all over the UK, asking about how we set ourselves up, and how the initiative has developed,” says Adrian. BBC wildlife presenter Chris Packham has also heard about the project. “Following a tweet to his 145,000 followers we received
a small avalanche of enquiries about our work and achievements,” smiles Adrian. “Our project has also inspired work among schools, including the Bristol Schools Nature Reserve, which encourages schools across the city to allocate parts of their land for wildlife-friendly plants and other eco-features.” Always looking to recruit more volunteers, Adrian loves to hear the ideas they bring with them. “The plant swap scheme was one such idea, which has been a great success and is perfect for keeping costs of being involved to a minimum.” From the seed of an idea in 2015, Felixstowe’s Community Nature Reserve is now an outstanding
“We redefined what a nature reserve could be” success. But as Adrian explains: “The most important lesson we can offer other groups keen to start their own community nature reserve is to listen to as many local people as possible. The more people you listen to the more ideas come forth. Be patient. Don’t rush into things and remember to spread the word to people that may not have the internet.” l For find out how to get involved, search for Felixstowe Community Nature Reserve on Facebook. ISSUE ONE… SUMMER 2016
Clockwise from top left: Adrian’s idea is transforming back gardens; a large red damselfly; the project will inspire a new generation of conservationists
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Scott Keith Beckett Steve
Born in Felixstowe Raised in Felixstowe Estate Agents in Felixstowe
NORTHCLIFFE COURT £595,000
TRIMLEY ST MARTIN £510,000
CAVENDISH ROAD £330,000
LAUDS CLOSE £575,000
EPC “C“ Det house, 4 beds, lounge, double garage, gardens
EPC “C“ Extended det house, 4 beds, large kitchen / family room, gardens
EPC “C“ Greatly extended 3 bed house, lounge, large garden, home office
EPC “ TBC“ Individual executive det house, 4 beds, lounge, conservatory, double garage
WALNUT CLOSE £479,950
QUEENS ROAD £310,000
HIGH RD TRIMLEY £342,000
WESTMORLAND ROAD £429,950
EPC “C“ Extended det house, 4 beds, lounge, dining rm, en suite, double garage, gardens
EPC “D“ Individual det house, 3 beds, lounge, kitchen / family room, garage
EPC “D“ Extended det house, good size garden, 4 beds, lounge, dining room
EPC ‘E’ Detached 4 beds, family room extension, double garage CHAIN FREE
David Button
Independent Funeral Directors • Personal service • No hidden costs • Dedicated Chapel of Rest • Traditional Inclusive Cremation at either Seven Hills or Ipswich crematorium, £2,795
David Button Funeral Directors is an independent family-run business that prides itself on its care, compassion and customer service. We are available 24 hours a day 7 days a week. Out of hours appointments and home visits are also available. 225 High Street, Walton, Felixstowe. IP11 9DT www.davidbuttonfuneraldirectors.co.uk T 01394 200793 enquiry@davidbuttonfuneraldirectors.co.uk
Nick Barber Auctions
19 Hamilton Road Felixstowe IP11 7AX enquiries@scottbeckett.co.uk www.scottbeckett.co.uk
MEMORABILIA & COLLECTABLES AUCTION Tuesday 19 and Wednesday 20 September 2017 at The Orwell Hotel, Felixstowe, IP11 7DX
st e g g i b Our t! e y e l a s Viewing: 18 Sept 14:00-18:00, 19 Sept and 20 Sept 09:00-11:45 Auction starts at 12 noon on both 19 and 20 September Approximately 900 lots split into the two days Day One: Stamps / Records 200+ lots / Die-cast Day Two: Sports Memorabilia 150 lots / Cigarette Cards 100 lots / Coins / Postcards / Collectables Contact Numbers : 01394 549084 / 07876 757268 Email : nick.barber1965@btinternet.com
ISSUE ONE… SUMMER 2016
FELIXSTOWE LIVES
MOVERS
Local home owners… throw open their doors
AND SHAKERS
Child free zones?… meet the couple with the Parent Pod! Is grey just so last year?… Jojo Humes Brown on colours
YOUR BRAND NEW FREE HOMES & LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE
Local auctioneer Nick Barber spills the beans on how his life has changed since becoming Mayor of Felixstowe Picture by Jemma Watts Tell us about your role? The Mayor of Felixstowe, sometimes called the first citizen, is chairman of the town council and is elected by the 16 town councillors. It is very much an ambassadorial role, representing the town at around 300 events during my year in office. It has always been something I wanted to do and I’m proud of myself and proud for my family that I’ve achieved it.
How did you first get into the auctions business? My father used to own Stamp Auctions in the 1980s and 90s, which I was involved in. I then started my own sporting memorabilia auction, but since the shop has opened, the auctions have expanded, culminating in our five-year anniversary in October and our very first two-day auction in September.
That sounds fun and busy – can you tell us about the highlights? Obviously, the mayor-making evening at the annual council meeting when it was made official was a highlight, but events-wise there have been several already, even though we are only a third of the way through the year. Standing out among them were three days in June, which began with an invitation to board the OOCL Hong Kong, the biggest container ship in the world, for its maiden visit to Felixstowe. Then London the next day to the Cutty Sark, for the Port of Felixstowe’s 50-year container terminal celebrations, and back early the next morning to open the Armed Forces Weekend, which was a real triumph for the town.
How long have you lived here? 52 years – or all my life! What makes Felixstowe so special? The people and all the different areas of the town. It’s a place that offers so much, that when people visit they always come back again. I am certain that every visitor at some stage contemplates or wishes they could live here too! Felixstowe was always called the ‘hidden gem’ of Suffolk, but over the past few years it’s been ‘on the up’ and is less hidden now! If you could have one wish granted for the town, what would it be? For the pier itself to be regenerated. My personal wish would be to welcome travelling cruise ships
to dock here – what a huge boost to the local economy that would bring.
“I may have started a new trend!” What is the funniest thing that happened to you recently? At a recent twinning visit to Wesel in Germany we were invited to an awards ceremony which was honouring dozens of regional rifle clubs. I was sat at the front of the grandstand, among many smartlydressed, distinguished guests, proudly wearing the mayoral chain. However, the next day the Mayor of Wesel told me that my Homer Simpson socks were the talk of the event and I may have started a new trend! Tell us a secret about yourself. Not really secrets, but I live in Felixstowe with my wife Judy, and children Felix and Holly. Over the years I’ve been involved in container haulage, speedway merchandise and now the auctions and collectors shop. I love travelling to new places, watching Felixstowe & Walton FC, movies, watching pretty much all sports – and competing in some. And yes, I love cruise ship holidays. ISSUE ONE… SUMMER 2016
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Prices on: www.jenniferlouisebeauty.com Call: 01394 276662
ISSUE ONE… SUMMER 2016
BEAUTY
SUMMER HAIR HACKS Having fun in the sun needn’t result in dry, damaged hair. Here’s why… By Beauty Editor Alice Manning
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olden skin, a surge of vitamin D and a photo stream full of unforgettable memories, there’s a lot to love about summer. But there is a downside to holiday season and it comes in the form of dry, dehydrated and frankly unhappy hair. Recent trips to Greece and Majorca with plenty of exposion to the sun, sea, sand and chlorine left my hair more straw-like than ever and as a result it became more highmaintenance: tangling easily, falling flat and needing a serious injection of shine. So in a bid to get my hair back on track I started investing time and money in a thorough regime with nourishing haircare, intensive masks, supplements and in-salon treatments. A few weeks in and I’m already seeing a difference - no it isn’t back to its former shiny self just yet but it feels softer, silkier and the frizz is slowly transforming into smooth strands. I’m also following the orders of hair and health experts and eating my way to healthy hair. Yes really! A diet rich in essential omega-3 fatty acids, iron and zinc is key for a healthy scalp, to stimulate hair growth and boost shine; think salmon, mackerel, avocadoes, Brazil nuts, legumes and leafy green vegetables like spinach and kale. Bon appetit! Here are my summer hair heroes…
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When it comes to beauty I’m a big believer in starting from the inside. Viviscal Hair Growth Programme Max Strength contains a potent blend of zinc, iron, vitamin C and a rich marine complex to support healthy hair growth by nourishing the hair follicle from within, courtesy of two tablets daily. You do need to persevere with this as the results aren’t immediate. £51.99 for a one month supply, available at Boots, 86 Hamilton Road, Felixstowe (www.boots.com/01394 282 022).
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Serenity Spa has just opened and boasts a menu packed full of body and mood-boosting treats. Their ESPA Shoulder, Neck and Scalp Massage (£32 for 25 minutes) includes a head massage with deeply nourishing oils. The pressure of the massage helps to get blood flowing to the hair follicle - relaxing and results-driven. Waverley Heights, 2 Wolsey Gardens, Felixstowe (www.serenity.co.com/ 01394 276 223).
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I’ve been fortunate enough to interview some of the biggest hair experts in the industry and there is one product they all agree on: a deep conditioning mask. Why? Because they are loaded with conditioning ingredients that penetrate deeply to repair, restore and revive. Paul Mitchell Super Strong Treatment (£19.95) contains wheat proteins and amino acids and is the most amazing ‘pick me up’ for sad strands. Available at Hair Artistry, 14 Hamilton Road, Felixstowe (01394 271 193).
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It blows my mind when I speak to my girlfriends and they don’t use a heat protector before styling their hair. That’s like stepping into the sun without wearing SPF! Bearing in mind most of your heated appliances soar over 200°, don’t you think a prepping, protective product is a good idea? Schwarzkopf OSIS Flat Liner Iron Serum (£12.85) does just that, plus it tames frizz and boosts shine. Available at Tailored Cutz, 56 St Andrews Road, Felixstowe (www.tailoredcutz.co.uk/01394 283 221).
Local home owners… throw open their doors Child free zones?… meet the couple with the Parent Pod! Is grey just so last year?… Jojo Humes Brown on colours
YOUR BRAND NEW FREE HOMES & LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE
Hair icon of the month… Fashionista Alexa Chung’s new fringe is the cut everyone is talking about. Friend and stylist George Northwood is the man behind the look which is brow-skimming with shorter, face-framing pieces just above the jawline. I’m loving the retro vibes and am seriously considering rocking this look.
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I am so excited about Matrix’s Biolage R.A.W range at The Salon by Jennifer Louise Beauty. Packed full of natural ingredients with zero sulphates, parabens or silicones the Nourish collection contains ingredients like quinoa, honey, coconut oil and Shea butter to bring dull, dry hair back to life. There is an in-salon treatment which features a heater (like the one you sit under while your colour develops) to encourage the active ingredients to penetrate deeply for soft, silky results. This is such a must post-holiday or pre-any special event, and it only takes 20 minutes. Shampoo and Conditioner, £17.99 each, Masque £24.99, Heat Treatment £15, not including a blow dry. 163 Hamilton Road, Felixstowe (www.jenniferlouisebeauty.com/ 01394 276 662). There are loads of lovely images on their Instagram page @biolage.
Psst! Male grooming is bigger than ever before with barbers really taking centre stage. Gentleman’s Retreat Barbershop is the place to go for beard trims and is being hailed as the best men’s salon around. 20 Orwell Road, Felixstowe (01394 285 444). ISSUE ONE… SUMMER 2016
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TALK OF THE TOWN! As the new pier gives the town a huge boost, Living In … Felixstowe caught up with its managing director, Stan Threadwell … Pictures by Jemma Watts
Congratulations Stan, the pier opened ahead of time! Yes, we opened on July 29, two weeks ahead of the programme, which is great for a project of this size. We have been absolutely overwhelmed with the response from the general public and for the wonderful comments and appreciation for what’s been achieved. Particular thanks should go to Julian Brandon and Peter McSloy, who were our contracts and site manager respectively. Their total commitment and dedication to the project has been inspiring; they worked above and beyond to get it over the line. The weather was kind to us too, which did help! ISSUE ONE… SUMMER 2016
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Why such a massive project? We felt the time was right. We have lived here as a family for about 50 years and it’s been wonderful to see the improvements that have taken place over the last six or seven years. From Landguard Fort, the View Point Cafe and Felixstowe Museum to the Bloor Homes developments, the renovation of the boating lake, the Spa Pavilion theatre and Spa Gardens, it’s been amazing and good to see all the cafes, bars and dining establishments which have sprouted up like Bencottos and the Fludyers. What were the highlights and any challenges of renovating the pier? The key highlight was seeing the building
plaza area together and getting over the environmental issues like flooding and so forth. It was quite inspiring to see how they brought that all together. I love the feeling you get walking around the pier on the boardwalk, seeing the water under your feet! And we love the new lighting you have installed around the outside of the building to light it up at night. Yes, we’ve got a colour wash all around the building. It means we can theme it whenever we want to celebrate something, like on St Patrick’s Day we can have a flag up, or St George’s Day or St David’s – we can do so many things with it.
taking shape! The biggest challenges were the planning consents – we had 30 consents to overcome but credit must be given to the staff at the council who worked tirelessly in conjunction with our team and helped to get it over the line; we all worked together. What are you most proud of? The amazing covered walkway, the boardwalk, around the pier and over the beach, and the raised prom and plaza area, which is a great new space for the general public to enjoy. Haydn Evans Consulting, who were the civil and structural design engineers on the project, brought those aspects to the table – tying the prom and
Opposite page, top to bottom: The refurbished pier; Stan’s parents Stanley and Georgina in 1983 This page, clockwise from top left: Happy days!; cocktails at The Boardwalk Cafe Bar; a postcard of the pier from the 1970s; the superb new boardwalk
STAN TELLS US MORE ABOUT HIS COLOURFUL FAMILY … “My great uncle was Charlie Manning and his mother – my great-grandmother – was called Minnie. She not only had Charlie but also Tommy, Billy and four daughters – Grace, Emma, Ivy and my grandmother, also called Minnie. My grandmother died when my father was only four years of age. My grandfather, her husband, took on her surname Threadwell from thereon, hence our family name. My own mum and dad, Georgina Lillian and Stanley Manning Threadwell, had three daughters including Deborah and two boys – me and my brother Darren. Deborah, Darren and I are all involved in the running of the pier; we are all part of the company, it’s not just me. My dad moved to Felixstowe in the late 1950s when he came to work in the Butlins park, and that’s where he met my mother, who also came from a showman’s background. My parents first acquired the pier back in 1966 and worked very hard, along with us, their children, to make the business successful. Dad passed away in 1997. By then I’d been involved in the business ever since I’d left school. We also own the Britannia and Wellington piers in Great Yarmouth but Felixstowe has always been central to our operations – it’s our head office and it’s been our family home for the best part of 50 years.” ISSUE ONE… SUMMER 2016
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seen as much investment in the town as we have in the last six or seven years, it’s been amazing. We’ve been told the rail company even added an extra carriage onto the Ipswich train to cope with the influx! Yes, we heard that there was a notice sent to people living near the Derby Road station in Ipswich about that. We can’t say that’s solely due to the pier but it all helps! There’s now more on offer here – there are some lovely restaurants and all the lovely Edwardian architecture around the town, like the apartments going up on Cliff House. That’s another lovely old building being refurbished to its former glory, and it’s wonderful to see. I still drive around now and notice someone’s renovating a building and bringing it back to what it was, like The Bartlet development – that’s looking great. Were there any interesting finds during the year-long construction period? We pulled out quite a few timber piles from the original Victorian jetty and they were quite an obstruction to get through, when you consider they didn’t have piling equipment to do that in those days! They would have used mechanical hands and lifted weights packed like a jackhammer. It’s incredible to think what was achieved in those days.
Top: The pier has been a huge boost to the town Above: Stan’s father Stanley after the first refurbishment of the pier back in 1971 Bottom: Greig Barnes, catering manager (right) and a colleague
Any future plans? We’d love to tackle repairs of the finger jetty but it’s costly. For example, we repaired three columns which you can see because of the small part of the jetty you can walk on – it cost over £75,000 to repair just those three. Now there’s another 40-odd of those to repair, which would have to be carried out under a challenging working marine environment, so you do the maths! You can see the sort of costs and challenges we’re up against. Hopefully, if the regeneration to the pier continues in the same vein, maybe it’s something we might address a few years down the line. What hopes do you have for the town? More of the same please! Further investment and regeneration. Felixstowe has always been a lovely and wonderful place to live, I think the cat’s out of the bag now and everyone knows about it! Hopefully it will spur further investment. If you look just across the road from the pier, that part of the street has now got the Fish Dish, the Bronze Pot, The Waffle Shack, Sweets ‘n’ Treats and The Little Ice Cream Co – it’s wonderful and is good for everybody. We have a business further down Sea Road and we were a little concerned we might see a drop in visitors there, but in fact what we’ve seen is an influx of extra visitors – so we know we’re not draining them from anywhere else. We’re bringing more people to the area, which is great. In 50 years of living here, we haven’t
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What do you think your late father and former pier owner, Stanley Manning Threadwell, would make of the new pier? He’d be thrilled but he’d have still found something wrong! He’d be pointing out the things that aren’t quite right, rather than the things we did correctly! He was a perfectionist, my dad, but I’m afraid I’m a bit like that too! I can’t believe he’s been gone 20 years now – he was my idol. l For more information, go to www.felixstowe-pier.co.uk
DOWN BY THE SEA! Since opening its doors, The Boardwalk Cafe Bar has been a hit with visitors and residents alike. Greig Barnes, catering manager explains: “We’ve definitely exceeded expectations and people are loving the whole look and feel of the cafe. Whether they’re ordering milkshakes, coffees or cocktails, nothing like this is being done elsewhere in Felixstowe.” With a 20-year career in catering, including six years as the general manager at The Alex and Cafe Bencotto, Greig’s return from Leeds earlier this year was perfect timing. “The Boardwalk is an opportunity to be involved in something pretty special. Our ultimate goal is to create a grown-up environment, where people can get dressed up and enjoy a drink, whether that’s a great glass of wine or a coffee, and without needing to order a meal.” Open seven days a week from 9am till late, Greig runs a team of 25, which he says he still needs to expand. “We’ve got a great team here and I feel lucky and proud to be part of it.”
ISSUEONE… ONE…SUMMER SUMMER2016 2016 ISSUE
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Localhome homeowners… owners…throw throwopen opentheir theirdoors doors Local Childfree freezones?… zones?…meet meetthe thecouple couplewith withthe theParent ParentPod! Pod! Child Isgrey greyjust justso solast lastyear?… year?…Jojo JojoHumes HumesBrown Brownon oncolours colours Is
LESS IS MORE
YOUR BRAND BRAND NEW NEW YOUR FREE HOMES HOMES & & FREE LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE MAGAZINE LIFESTYLE
Clockwise from top left: Less is more in the kitchen; bespoke shaped faux wood shutters; the company director, Sacha Seddon-Price
Combining style and practicality, Sacha Seddon-Price of the Suffolk Shutter Company shares all about the allure of the plantation shutter
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f you’re ever passing Sacha SeddonPrice’s converted barn, one thing’s for sure, there won’t be a curtain in sight. Passionate about her business – the Suffolk Shutter Company – she says: “We’ve had shutters in every house we’ve owned and I could never go back to conventional curtains. There’s nothing I don’t love about plantation shutters. They’re practical and stylish, and they don’t need changing every time you redecorate.” Having launched in 2016, as an independent business and not as part of a franchise, Sacha says, “The feedback we’re receiving from clients is they like the fact we’re local and can offer a premium product with great customer service.” Committed to offering customers 100 per cent satisfaction, she continues, “These days, choosing any window dressing is a big investment, including plantation shutters, so it’s vital they fit perfectly and fully meet a client’s needs.” Perfectly complementing the modern ‘less is more’ approach to home decor, plantation shutters have never been so popular. Sacha explains: “Whilst they may be on trend, their appeal is ageless and they provide a host of benefits.” These include: privacy, light control, insulation in the winter, ventilation in the summer, and noise reduction. “Easy to clean too, they’re virtually maintenance free,” smiles Sacha. Offering both hardwood (Basswood) and faux wood shutters, Sacha’s honesty is refreshing when discussing the two options. “Without doubt I would always
recommend the faux wood option. Not only would you never realise they aren’t natural wood, but they’re made here in the UK, which I believe is hugely positive. “They can also be fitted in all rooms of a house, including kitchens and bathrooms, without reacting to the air’s moisture content and potentially warping; and they offer excellent value for money. “The faux wood option also works particularly well in homes in our beautiful coastal towns where there is naturally more moisture in the air.”
“Clients like the fact we’re local and can offer a premium product with great customer service” Faux wood shutters come with a 10-year guarantee and, being UK- manufactured, can usually be in place within three weeks of placing the order. Basswood natural wood shutters are manufactured in China, come with a three-year warranty and have an average lead time of 10 weeks prior to installation. With shutters available in a choice of over 16 colours and two louvre sizes – 64mm and 89mm – the Suffolk Shutter Company prides itself on its first-class customer service. “Once you’ve made contact with us, you’ll only ever deal with myself, Gary, my husband, or our fitter, Graham.” Undertaking all initial client visits at no
charge, Sacha discusses requirements and chats through available shutter options such as café style, full height, and tier on tier, which is two independently operated panels, one mounted over the other. From the initial client meeting, a quote is produced and if the decision is made to proceed, a second visit is arranged for Gary or Graham to undertake a full manufacture survey. “It’s at this stage that details such as the frame options, panel configuration or whether hinges should be left or right fitting are discussed,” adds Sacha. To place an order, a 50 per cent deposit is required and for standard faux shutters, a client can expect them to be installed in around three weeks. Shaped or more complex arrangements take slightly longer to manufacture and are available within 28 days. With clients in Woodbridge, Felixstowe, Rendlesham and further up the coast, Sacha adds, “Business is very healthy and we’re receiving positive feedback about our shutters, our service and our affordability. “I believe our passion and the confidence we have in our product also shines through; working with one of the UK’s leading manufacturers gives customers real peace of mind. Keeping things local is really important to us and that’s what our clients tell us they like about us too.” l Call 01473 276117 or go to www.suffolkshuttercompany.co.uk ISSUE ONE… SUMMER 2016
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ISSUE ONE… SUMMER 2016
ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE
KEEPING IT IN
THE FAMILY Local home owners… throw open their doors
Child free zones?… meet the couple with the Parent Pod!
Is grey just so last year?… Jojo Humes Brown on colours
YOUR BRAND NEW FREE HOMES & LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE
Living In … Felixstowe met up with the Scales family of Vikings Estates to find out more about their way of doing business
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stablished over 30 years ago, Vikings Estates is part of the fabric of Hamilton Road. Whether you’re a landlord, a tenant or a vendor, you’re guaranteed to receive the same professional, friendly and expert service from David Scales and his sons, Jason and Jamie. “To us, family matters, and I was always keen that the boys would join me in the business at some point,” says David, who founded the company. Elder son, Jason, joined his father in 1991, and Jamie followed in his brother’s footsteps in 2006. “Everyone knows we’re here on Hamilton Road, and we still have many of our landlord clients that joined me when I first opened for business,” continues David. “People like the stability we offer – you can walk in and you know that there’ll be one of us, or Sandra Forsdike, our lettings administrator, here to help. Completely up to speed on all the properties we manage for our landlord clients, or the properties we’re selling on behalf of a client, it doesn’t matter who in the team you speak to, we’re all able to help.” This autumn will see Vikings undergo a bit of a transformation. As Jamie explains: “Our reputation is very much in the rentals sector, but we’re increasing our presence in the sales market and currently have some great properties on our books. We’re also refurbishing the office, and a new website will be launched shortly. “The refurbishment will bring together our experience with a new, more contemporary look that reflects the times; you could say we’re going more ‘shiny’.” With autumn the second busiest time in the estate agency calendar, the coming months are important to Vikings. But as Jamie says: “Whether we’re talking rentals or sales, demand always outstrips supply. With the recent investment in the town, and the port increasingly busy, there are always people
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wanting to move to Felixstowe. “Properties aren’t staying around for long. On average, from an offer being accepted to completion, we are looking at just three months, which is about as good as it can be. Personalising our service and caring about meeting our clients’ needs definitely gives us an edge in what is quite a busy marketplace.” You can’t talk about the Vikings team without mentioning Alfie. An English bull terrier, Alfie’s now 11 and has been coming to the office since he was a puppy. Most days somebody pops in just to say hello to him, bring him treats, or to take him for a walk. “He’s one of us,” says Jason, the company’s lettings manager and Alfie’s owner. “Although he’s starting to slow down, if anyone comes in with a bag of groceries he’s greeting them in a flash.” Working with family isn’t always as easy as you’d hope, but David, Jason and Jamie have no complaints. “In all the years, we’ve never had a major upset,” smiles David. “You’d think we’d have enough of each other Monday to Friday, but we’re a close family out of work too, and all love our sport.” All three are keen cricketers and golfers, and Jamie is also manager of Woodbridge Town FC, a role he loves. “I can’t get enough of my football,” he says. “But it’s great too when the three of us head out for a round of golf.” Proud of its independence, Vikings Estates offers a full lettings and sales service and, while it’s based in Felixstowe, it covers the surrounding villages, as well as Ipswich, Woodbridge, Kesgrave and Martlesham. It’s exciting times ahead at Vikings. “We’ve always had a straightforward, common sense approach to doing business and that’s what clients like. No two days are ever the same, and we wouldn’t have it any other way,” adds David. l Call 01394 275111 or go to www.vikings.uk.net
From the top: Company founder David Scales flanked by sons Jamie (left) and Jason; two bedroom semi-detached cottage in Kirton, for sale at £279,950; Jason’s dog Alfie is a familiar face around the office
“Whether we’re talking rentals or sales, demand always outstrips supply” JAMIE SCALES, SENIOR NEGOTIATOR
BUSINESS AS USUAL
ARCHWAY CARPETS’ TARTAN ARMY If you want a bit of tartan in your life, go to Archway Carpets which has sourced two new fantastic suppliers. Owner Darrell Smith says: “After visiting the Wool Show 2017 in Chelsea we now stock
PAIN RELIEF FOR ALL Osteopathy treats a range of medical disorders through the manipulation and massage of the skeleton and musculature. But did you know animals can also suffer from exactly the same injuries as us? “I treat humans and animals!” says local osteopath Jim Hurden. “Animal-wise, I’m happy to look at everything including
Stevens and Graham from Glasgow, who manufacture 78 different family tartans as carpets for your home. We are loving the ‘Smith’ tartan!” For further details, go to www.archwaycarpets.co.uk horses and dogs. Animals can suffer from bad backs, hips, necks and headaches just the same as us. The difficulty is they can’t articulate it. “We ask more and more of our animals nowadays, things like putting our dogs in for agility or them jumping in and out of the car every day – it can all add up and lead to the same biomechanical aches that we’d suffer.” Jim, who treats horses at livery yards, will launch the Canine Osteopathy Clinic on September 15th at Whitworth Vets in Station Road, Trimley St Mary, and then every Friday. He sees humans at the lovely Serenity Spa in Wolsey Gardens, Felixstowe. More details at: www. hurdenosteopaths.co.uk or www.animalosteoeast.co.uk.
CARE FOR CARERS Staff at Spring Lodge have issued a declaration to carers looking after loved ones at home: “If you care, we care!” The care home, on Main Road, Woolverstone, is launching a new care cafe on Friday, September 29th from 10.30am till noon. The event is to provide carers with an opportunity to meet up with people in the same position and share their problems, swap ideas or
perhaps simply enjoy a chat over coffee and cakes. Spring Lodge acting manager, Sue Moreby, says: “The event will be held on the last Friday of every month; there will be no charge for the coffee, tea and homemade cakes. “Of course, our event is not just for carers – we’d love to welcome along everyone from our community.” For details on the home, see www.springlodge.care
CASH & CARRY
Bringing you all the latest business news from around the local area
Now that summer’s over, are you tired of the caravan cluttering up the drive? Want to settle the finance on it once and for all? Oaks Caravans in Brightwell say they pay cash on all makes and models, and offer an ‘instant payout’ as well as a brokerage service. The company also offers repairs and servicing. For further information, see www.oakscaravansales.co.uk
WHEN TWO BECOME ONE Two shop owners have joined forces in the town. Nicola Barclay who runs Livia’s Boutique and Emma Swinn of Alterations became firm friends while running shops next door to each other in Owell Road. “When the shop at 1A Hamilton Road came up, we took the plunge and expanded into there,” says Nicola. “We are separate businesses. Livia’s Boutique was started by myself a year ago and Emma started Alterations a month before me. “
The ladies are holding a Macmillan Coffee and Cake Day at the shop on Friday 29th September, to raise vital funds.
NEW IN TOWN … l The brand new American
Diner in Crescent Road is offering a superb range of gluten-free options l If you’re looking to give your feet a treat try Heel The Soles, a new and local mobile foot care service offered by Theresa Walker. Go to www.heelthesoles.co.uk ISSUE ISSUE ONE… ONE… SUMMER SUMMER 20162016
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2008 COACHMAN PASTICHE 470/2
2012 SPRITE MUSKETEER
A luxury 5 berth caravan with a well thought out layout. Externally it has a motor mover, alloy wheels, external BBQ gas point, external 230 socket, LED awning strip light, privacy windows, AL-KO stabiliser. Inside itʼs fully equipped including, fly screens and blackout blinds throughout, blown air heating, water heater, fridge, hob, grill & oven with auto ignition, CD player, removable carpets, corner washroom with sink, shower and cassette toilet. In exceptional condition and highly equipped. £9795
Coachman are known for the quality and craftsmanship that goes into their caravans, and in this 2 berth example it absolutely shines through. Equipped externally with alloy wheels, BBQ gas point, external 230v socket, motor mover, AL-KO stabiliser, external shower clip in point & solar panel. The interior is just as impressive with microwave, full cooker with electric plate, fridge, blown air heating, water heater, audio/sat/video & aerial connection point. It has a large rear washroom with separate shower cubicle, cassette toilet and washbasin. Impressive from the moment you walk in. £7295
2001 COACHMAN AMARA
2007 STERLING ECCLES TOPAZ
Sterling caravans never fail to delight. Great build quality combined with well thought-out layouts and equipment. This 2 berth is equipped with alloy wheels, motor- mover, BBQ gas point, motor mover and AL-KO stabilizer. Moving inside you will find blown air heating, water heater, full cooker with electric plate, fridge, omnivent air system, fly screens & blackout blinds on all windows and roof lights. CD player, DVD & AV connection points it also boasts a large rear washroom with separate shower cubicle, cassette toilet & washbasin. All in all a well appointed caravan for 2 people, £6495
These Coachman caravans are one of the best built caravans around, well equipped and finished with quality and comfort in mind. This is a 2 berth with motormover, new al-ko stabiliser, alloys, large rear washroom, cassette toilet, shower cubicle, full oven, hob and grill, 3 way fridge, blown air heating and duel fuel water heater, it has a full book pack & 6 month warranty. This caravan has been fully CRIS checked and a report will be provided, it will also come with a free starter pack including leisure battery, mains lead, water pump, corner steady winder, step, gas hose and regulator. £3995
Based in Walton and celebrating its 101st anniversary, Bloomfields is all about good old customer service. Whether you’re looking to replace your three-piece suite, invest in a new mattress or carpet your home, the team headed up by Paul and Steve Bloomfield is always on hand to assist. Stockists of Alstons Furniture, Sherbourne, Sweet Dreams, Sealy and many more brands, Bloomfields is proud to be Felixstowe’s local furniture store. What’s more, they can even help with local removals and furniture storage.
ISSUE ONE… SUMMER 2016
EVENTS
Mayor’s charity pig race
Sunday, 24th September If you’re a keen cyclist, why not join Cycle Felixstowe and its open road social ride? Starting from the Triangle Canopy, it’s free to take part and there’s a choice of a 15 or 25-mile route, depending on your ability or even how you feel on the day. This ride is aimed at the more confident and experienced rider but rest assured it’s not about speed, just the enjoyment of a healthy cycle ride is reward enough. www.facebook.com/cyclefelixstowe
Friday, 6th October Here’s your chance to join the Mayor of Felixstowe, Nick Barber (pictured), for a fun-filled evening of charity pig racing. With fluffy battery-operated pigs all keen to be the first to trot over the finishing line, this evening is guaranteed to crackle with excitement. Money raised during the evening will be donated to the Mayor’s charities – Level Two Youth Project, FACTS (Felixstowe Area Community Transport Service) and Felixstowe & Walton United Football Club. Hosted at the Felixstowe Trades & Labour Club, the evening kicks off at 7pm and tickets are £10 per person. Pre-booking is essential and includes light nibbles and hog roast. Tickets are available from Lorna at Felixstowe Town Hall, 01394 288193, Wendy at Level Two, 01394 272521, Bryan at FACTS, 01394 282857, and Chris at Felixstowe and Walton United Football Club, 01394 282627. Local home owners… throw open their doors
Child free zones?… meet the couple with the Parent Pod!
Is grey just so last year?… Jojo Humes Brown on colours
OUT
AND ABOUT!
YOUR BRAND NEW FREE HOMES & LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE
Picture by Jemma Watts
Cycle Felixstowe
If you’re looking for something new to do over the coming weeks, here’s our pick of the best local events in and around town Dirty Dancing comes to town
Thursday, 28th September Back by popular demand, spend an evening at the Spa Pavilion, reliving the passion and romance of the iconic 1980s movie, Dirty Dancing, starring Patrick Swayze and Jennifer Grey. A theatrical treat for romantics of all ages, this tribute will have you singing your heart out to favourites including She’s Like the Wind and the Oscar-winning (I’ve Had) The Time of My Life. www.spapavilion.uk
Radio Caroline remembered
Saturday, 9th September Way back in 1964, Radio Caroline, the UK’s first pirate offshore radio station, was anchored off Felixstowe. To commemorate the role Radio Caroline played in bringing popular music to the masses, and as part of the Heritage Open Days scheme, a stone will be unveiled at Wolsey Gardens at 2.30pm. As part of the commemorations, 1960s DJ Emperor Rosko will also be attending, arriving in a convoy of Mini Mokes. The stone unveiling is part of an offshore radio exhibition taking place over the weekend, which also includes a record fair on the Saturday. For more information, see www.facebook.com/felixstoweandoffshoreradio or call Brian Nichols on 07714 596655. Heritage Open Days is England’s largest annual festival of history and culture. From 7th–10th September, 5,000 events will take place across the country, celebrating heritage and community – and all of them are free!
Festival of Fabric
Saturday, 7th October If you love anything to do with fabric, vintage-style clothing, dressmaking, knitting and all things haberdashery, then this festival is for you. The idea of Amanda and Tim Bowden, owners of the Felixstowe Sewing School, the festival brings together all the above and more. With specialist retailers, a fab vintage DJ, workshops and a chance for a great cuppa, head along to Old Felixstowe Community Centre on Ferry Road and get inspired. www.festivaloffabric.co.uk
Friend or Foe?
WOVEN THEATRE PRESENTS
28th September – 1st October Hosted at Landguard Fort, this open air theatre production is all about the life and times of Philip Thicknesse, governor of the fort from 1753 – 1766. An intriguing man who was hated by his enemies, loved by his wives, and a champion of the underdog, this all-new production will be enjoyed by all ages, and especially those Peppy Barlow & Sally Wilden keen to know more about Landguard in days gone by. A bar and food is available before, during, and after the performance. www.easternangles.co.uk A play by
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TIPPING POINT! If you go down to the dump today, you’re sure of a big surprise. Felixstowe-based writer Katya Brightwell talks a load of rubbish …
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“T
he tip, the dump. We’ve all been there, and some of us visit quite often. On the Saturday morning run feeling gleeful having finally sorted through the loft, or the exhausted trip after a DIY weekend. After loading it all in and then out of the car, it’s truly freeing to drive away from Carr Road in a lighter vehicle, to a house full of (slightly) less stuff. But when you throw that broken lamp into the giant container and see hundreds have been there before you, what happens next? Is it buried in landfill somewhere to be discovered next century by a future archaeologist as a fine example of a vintage Ikea light fixture? No! Things they are a-changing and – having only just discovered this myself – nothing goes into landfill anymore. Suffolk waste centres are now run so efficiently that the majority of ‘waste’ left there is recycled (over 82 per cent according to the Suffolk council website). Your broken plastic garden chair may end up as a car bumper, and your plywood offcuts could become bedding for those farm animals down the road. And the limited amount of stuff that can’t be recycled is burned for fuel. No landfill at all anymore. But now … and much better … there is another option – Re-use. The next time you visit the Felixstowe Household Waste Recycling Centre (I know ‘the tip’ runs off the tongue a bit easier,
but we are trying here), keep an eye out for the bright orange Re-use containers each with a purple bicycle on top. Because Re-use can work magic. It can turn a scratched wooden table into support for a local vulnerable 16-year-old girl leaving a lifetime of care to start an independent life. It can transform that unused rusty bike into social time and fun for a group of children who care for less-abled parents, and that discarded games console could provide a homeless young person with a roof over their heads and the skills to move forward with their life. This is all made possible by an inspiring local charity, The Benjamin Foundation. Founded by Richard Draper in memory of his 17-year-old son who died tragically in an accident over 20 years ago, it has grown from humble beginnings in North Norfolk to a formative presence throughout the county. It branched out into Suffolk just last year to help young vulnerable people, and opened the Re-use Shop at Foxhall waste site. Two to three van-loads arrive here every day, full of items from those bright orange containers at Felixstowe and another seven sites around Suffolk. Items that were all destined for the rubbish bin. They are processed and then sold on as fundraising for the charity. The Re-use Shop is a treasure trove of a place, small but chock-ablock full of … well … everything. There are (safety-tested) large
ISSUE ONE… SUMMER 2016
FELIXSTOWE LIVES Opposite page, top to bottom: Donated bikes; Manager Carmen Smith (middle) with colleagues Sharna and Shaun This page, clockwise from top left: The store at Foxhall; drop off items at these containers around Suffolk; golf kits for sale Local home owners… throw open their doors
Child free zones?… meet the couple with the Parent Pod!
Is grey just so last year?… Jojo Humes Brown on colours
screen LCD TVs, bathroom suites still wrapped in their protective plastic, skis, bikes (they collect 60 a week from Foxhall alone), mirrors, greeting cards, new light fittings and toys galore. There’s a special vintage area along with your normal bric-a-brac, DVDs and furniture. The first of its kind in the county, it was a new venture for the foundation, the council and the public when it opened its doors just over a year ago, and is proving a huge success. People who shop there are diverse and ever-increasing. From young people who are starting out and can’t afford new, to those shopping for a more individual slant, to bargain hunters and those regulars who prefer to shop second-hand. It all makes a difference to help not only the environment, but also to try and counteract the disposable society that we increasingly live in. Carmen Smith, the charity’s manager at the shop, is passionate about her job. She is shocked at what people throw away and at just how much was going into the bins before they opened. Her mantra is simple: “If an item can still be used for what it was intended for, we are here to make sure that happens.” She is quick to point out that Re-use is different to your average charity shop – often taking items that they wouldn’t. “We are not fussy about the condition of the furniture. If something is hardwood and has scratches, dents or children have scribbled all over it, we’ll take it! We have someone who will come, sand it down and make it useable again. Even with electricals, it doesn’t have to be working. We’ll do a job lot of TVs, or audio, and someone will take them, put a punt on some of them working, do them up and sell them on.” The shop has proved educational too. “We get a lot of people come in and buy things for school projects. I had someone come in and buy a PC unit – the idea was that the student was going to rip it all apart and try and build it again. Another one
came in to buy a couple of bikes that might not have all their bits working, to try and build a good one.” The Furniture Re-use Network states over 10 million household items are taken to waste centres nationwide every year, and estimates that almost one third of these are reusable items. “If I could run one of those sites, there wouldn’t be anything in the bin! I would make sure it was all reused,” says Carmen. “We have a good turnover but if things don’t sell, I will try other charities or outlets. Any way for it not to go in the bin.” She is on a mission to change attitudes – to get ‘reuse, reuse’ into people’s minds before they dismiss it as rubbish. “I once spotted some mossy garden chairs in the back of someone’s car, that they were about to throw away. After a good clean they were as good as new,” she says excitedly. Between the shop staff and the specially-trained recycling centre staff on site, tens of thousands of items that were thought of as rubbish have been ‘intercepted’ over the last year across Suffolk. Over 300 came from Felixstowe in June alone. “The people who benefit here
YOUR BRAND NEW FREE HOMES & LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE
are 16-to-25-year-olds and that’s the age when real life actually hits you,” Carmen points out. The Benjamin Foundation runs supported accommodation in Ipswich and works hard to ensure that the young people that they assist are nurtured and taught valuable life skills rather than handed help on a plate. “Some have got no idea about paying bills and stuff. But more than having no idea, it’s more about having no idea of the consequences if you don’t.””
“If an item can still be used for what it was intended for, we are here to make sure that happens” So the benefits to this new venture really are manifold. Not only will the environment thank us, but someone who couldn’t afford a table may finally have a place to sit down and eat. Another child will learn to cycle from that old bike, and countless items that were someone else’s waste can end up as someone else’s treasure. All while providing valuable life skills and support to local young people. Truly turning waste into hope.”
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For you and your family
01394 283241 Offices in Felixstowe, Ipswich, Hadleigh, Woodbridge and Melton www.gotelee.co.uk
ISSUE ONE… SUMMER 2016
PETS
“We’re Kat and Andy (I’m pictured right) and we came to live in Felixstowe two years ago. Mum and Dad, Wendy and Mark, fostered us through Greyhound Homer Suffolk based in Capel St Mary and fell in love with us both. We were racing greyhounds and I have to say Andy was a bit of a champ in his time – his racing name was Tyrur Andy and mine was Gambling Cath. Now Andy is more likely to be found lazing around at home; his favourite thing is sunbathing and we each have our own sunbeds! Mum and Dad had to spend quite a while teaching us how to be normal dogs. We were bred to chase and at first we’d barge around the house and growl at other dogs when out. Nowadays we’re both really chilled, though Mum reckons I can be quite bossy with Andy. You have to be really as he’s a right softie and will do anything for a kiss and a cuddle!” Local home owners… throw open their doors
Child free zones?… meet the couple with the Parent Pod!
Is grey just so last year?… Jojo Humes Brown on colours
DOG
ABOUT TOWN
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l For more information on fostering a greyhound, go to www.greyhoundhomer.org.uk
ISSUE ONE… SUMMER 2016
OVER TO YOU
Your
Local home owners… throw open their doors Child free zones?… meet the couple with the Parent Pod! Is grey just so last year?… Jojo Humes Brown on colours
Letters
YOUR BRAND NEW FREE HOMES & LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE
Have you got something funny or topical you’d like to share? Send in your letters to: info@livinginfelixstowe.co.uk Manning’s Amusements: a place of fond memories
Sahas: ‘No one believed me’
ISSUE ONE… SUMMER 2016
“Fascinated by your article” I was fascinated by your article about Manning’s Amusements in the first issue of your spanking new magazine. When Charlie Manning was reopening the amusement park in 1946, like most of the local kids, I was curious to see how the funfair would be once all the rides and sideshows were fully operational. Quite a few of us would hang around watching the work progress and a few of us were lucky enough to be asked to lend a hand. As a mere 10-year-old, I was not going to end up on the payroll but Vic McBride, who was to be running the Kelly’s Wedding sideshow was happy to take on a willing volunteer. I was handed a large tin of green paint and a paintbrush. My task was to paint the floorboards under a number of life-sized rotating ‘wedding guests’ at which punters
could throw balls. The idea was to knock off their hats. I think it was three wooden balls for sixpence, and hats off meant prizes! I won no prizes when I arrived home with green paint on my clothes but my ‘boss’ became one of my dad’s regular customers at his Hamilton Road barber shop, which also opened in 1946. Another early regular was a very young Charlie Manning, Jr. with his mop of blond hair. Growing up in Felixstowe had many advantages and not least of these were the free rides at what we all knew as ‘Butlins’ on the Saturday morning prior to Easter each year, when the new season started. It is good to see that another generation of Champagne Charlie’s family is bringing new life to the iconic seafront enterprise. David Belton
“I genuinely loved your first issue” I have lived in Felixstowe since I was born (every time I have left, I have ended up coming right back!) and I would just like to say how much I enjoyed reading your first issue. Being 28 years old, I generally still consider myself a teenager, as you do, and so reading a magazine about my little hometown wouldn’t necessarily be considered my idea of an exciting thing to do – however, I genuinely loved your first issue and thoroughly enjoyed it. The design is modern, clean and beautiful, the articles were lovely and easy to read and captivated my attention, and the photography was
just stunning. Even the paper it was printed on was lovely! I particularly liked the articles about Maggie Franks in the Foodies’ Delight, the beauty page, and the Summer Fun section entitled Wish You Were Here! I also found the article about Tanya Ruffles very inspirational. I could go on and on, but really I just wanted to say congratulations on capturing the attention of a 28- year-old with very little spare time – you got me to take five minutes out of my schedule to sit and flick through, and remember how much I love my hometown. Kay Laker
30
“Living In … India?” Thanks for sending me the article in the magazine (town visitor Sahas featured in our first issue, talking about why he loves Felixstowe). I’m really happy because no one believed me except my best friend, Shubham. But now my friends will see it and say: “You didn’t lie.” I’m working on being famous – I’m making a movie called The Life of Sports and training really hard at football and cricket. It would be really good if I became a footballer, cricketer or actor, and I think I can act better than Daniel Radcliffe or any other actor. My friends say I’m good at pretending to cry, laugh and be serious. But I’m really happy, and I hope my family and I bump into you next time we come to the UK, or maybe you can come here and make a magazine called Living In … India? Sahas Suri, aged 10 Delhi, India “A colourful publication” The first edition of the above magazine has plopped through my letterbox today and may I congratulate you on a very interesting and colourful publication. Knowing some of the contributors to this edition made it even more interesting. Doreen Savage, MBE
Maggie Frank’s dishes impressed reader Kay
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LIVING IN
FELIXSTOWE Champagne Charlie … the Mannings Local home owners… throw open theirbrothers doors reveal all Beside the seasidemeet … why love Felixstowe Child free zones?… thewe couple with the Parent Pod! Making waves … meet theJojo Port’s female marine Is grey just so last year?… Humes Brown on pilot colours
YOURBRAND FABULOUS YOUR NEW FREE HOMES HOMES & & FREE LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE MAGAZINE LIFESTYLE
Life Is For Living...
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