Living in Martlesham & Kesgrave - Issue 3 by Living in ...

ISSUE 20162018 ISSUE ONE… THREESUMMER … SEPT/OCT

LIVING IN

MARTLESHAM The Spanish collective ... in Kesgrave!

& KESGRAVE

YOUR BRAND NEW Local home owners… throw open their doors Runaway success … marathon mum FREE HOMES & Child free zones?… meet the couple with the Parent Pod! Living in bliss … a wedding special! NEW HOMES & LIFESTYLE LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE MAGAZINE Is grey just so last year?… Jojo Humes Brown on colours

Design • Build • Renovate At Chapel Properties we are highly experienced in managing building projects of all sizes from small-scale projects, refurbishments and landscaping to luxury, high-end new builds. We love what we do and work hard to ensure that our clients know that their project is in safe hands with a constant flow of communication to keep them informed and involved at every stage. From initial consultation to the build completion, we bring all our experience and industry-knowledge to create the highest quality homes and construction projects.

OUR SERVICES: • Property development • General building contractor • New builds • Refurbishments • Extensions • Kitchens • Bathrooms • Property maintenance • Project management • Listed buildings • Garden and landscaping If you have a project, whatever its size and scale, that you would like us to help with, then please get in touch. We offer a free advice and free quotation service.

Mark Crisp MCIOB CCM Chartered Construction Manager

Call 01394 610526 www.chapelproperties.co.uk QUAY POINT • STATION ROAD • WOODBRIDGE • IP12 4AL

Images © Jackson-Stops.co.uk

SEPT/OCT

IN MARTLESHAM & KESGRAVE

elcome to issue three! As the kids return to school it’s hard to contemplate that autumn is on its way. But we hope you all had the chance to enjoy our sunniest of summers and that it shone a light on all the fab things there are to do and see here in Suffolk. For the first time, we’re delighted to bring you a special pull-out-and-keep supplement – Living In … Bliss. Over four pages we’re profiling some fab wedding venues, along with other specialist companies all dedicated to creating that perfect wedding day. What’s more, they’re all within a stone’s throw of where we live. So if you’re planning your big day, your research starts here! A big thank you to Spanish teacher Monica Pallares, who kindly opened her gorgeous Grange Farm home to us. On pages eight and nine, seasoned traveller Monica talks about finding her dream home and the amazing support group of Spanish mums she met, quite coincidentally, in Kesgrave. On page 11 we feature the wonderful singer Helen Woodbridge, aka Elly Tree, who opens her heart about her amazing talent and proves age is no barrier to raw talent. If you do one thing this autumn, try to get to see this amazing singer-songwriter perform locally. Marathon runner Helen Davies is no stranger to success. On page seven she explains about juggling a busy marathon career alongside being a busy mum to two little ones. On page 23 we’re transported to Argentina. Local dance enthusiast Cliff Hoppitt shares with us his love for the most intense dance around – the Argentine tango – and brings news of how to get involved. With regular features including Movers & Shakers, Dog About Town and Out & About we hope you can find a spare five minutes to sit down with a cuppa and enjoy!

Angela & Lyn

ISSUE ONE… SUMMER 2016

LIVING IN martlesham & kesgrave Editors: Angela Hagan (T: 07930 184773) & Lyn Peters (T: 07909 544496) Designers: Craig Drever and Lewis Webb info@livinginwoodbridge.co.uk www.livinginsuffolk.com 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 use in this publication. Living In … Martlesham & Kesgrave 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

YOUR BRAND NEW FREE HOMES & LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

17 13

WHAT’S INSIDE 7 8 11 13 17 27

Marathon mama Casa Monica Movers & Shakers Living In … Bliss Gardening guru Dog About Town

ON THE COVER

Our award-winning photographer, John Ferguson, perfectly captured the home of local Grange Farm resident and Spanish teacher, Monica Pallares, in our lovely photo shoot, featured on pages eight and nine. If you’d like your home featured in a future issue, or maybe you run a fabulous business from your living room or outside space, that you’d like to tell us about, call us on 07930 184773 or 07909 544496. ISSUE ONE… SUMMER ISSUE ONE… 2016SUMMER 2016

T h e n e w s c h o o l t e r m i s n o w u p o n u s . N e w s c h o o l y e a r , n e w c l a s s , n e w t e a c h e r , n e w f r i e n d s É n e w o p p o r t u n i t i e s . C h a n g e c a n b e u n s e t t l i n g b u t w e c a n m a k e i t a n o p p o r t u n i t y . A s a t r a i n e d c o a c h , J a c q u i F r o s t h a s 2 8 y e a r s Õ e x p e r i e n c e i n t h e e d u c a t i o n s e c t o r . U s i n g a r a n g e o f t e c h n i q u e s a n d s t r a t e g i e s , J a c q u i w o r k s w i t h c h i l d r e n a n d y o u n g a d u l t s t o h e l p t h e m r e d i s c o v e r t h e b e s t v e r s i o n o f t h e m s e l v e s .

F e a r h a s t w o m e a n i n g s : F o r g e t e v e r y t h i n g a n d r u n o r f a c e e v e r y t h i n g a n d r i s e . J a c q u i F r o s t , P e r s o n a l C o a c h 0 7 8 7 9 4 9 1 0 9 3 | j a c q f r o s t 2 5 7 @ g m a i l . c o m w w w . j f p e r s o n a l c o a c h . c o m

ISSUE ONE… SUMMER 2016

LOCAL NEWS

HAPPY NETWORKING BIRTHDAY! & events coordinator, tells us: “We are so pleased with how popular our networking events have become in our first year, our aim has always been to provide a friendly and relaxed environment for local business people to meet and network on a regular basis. The fact that we can also support our chosen charity, St Elizabeth Hospice, through these events is fantastic and this has only been made possible by sponsors Bates Wells & Braithwaite Solicitors in Ipswich. Through their support and the people who attend our networking, we are able to donate everything we raise from entry fees, to fun activity donations. The hospice is a great charity, we know how vital fundraising is for them to be able to continue their hard work within the community.” Jazmin Peach, corporate fundraiser for St Elizabeth Hospice, says: “We’re really grateful to all those involved with Kesgrave Community Centre’s Networking and thank everyone who has attended one of their sessions over the last year and donated to the charity. Eighty per cent

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

Picture by KWMCC

Kesgrave Community Centre (KWMCC) has just announced the success of its monthly networking events. The Centre of Networking, organised and hosted by KWMCC and sponsored by Bates Wells & Braithwaite Solicitors, Ipswich, opened its doors last September to provide an informal and fun monthly networking event for local businesses to attend and get connected. Thanks to the support of the event sponsors and those who regularly attend the networking group, they have also been able to support local charity St Elizabeth Hospice by raising over £600 to date. Set in 12 acres of land just outside Ipswich, the community centre has a choice of function rooms, free parking and is easily accessible, making it an ideal location for these types of events. The group celebrated at their last monthly event, along with representatives from the hospice, sponsors Bates Wells & Braithwaite, guest speaker Glenn Savill from Aston Shaw Accounting and networking attendees from local businesses. Jo Barker, KWMCC’s business

of the care we deliver happens away from the hospice, in our local community, and the money raised here could help us pay for seven home visits by one of our community nurses, helping those living with a progressive or terminal illness in their own homes.” l The next monthly networking event will take place on Tuesday 11th September from 9.30am– 11.30am. For more details please visit www.kwmcc.co.uk or email jo@kwmcc.co.uk

Pictured above: L-R Debbie Austin (St Elizabeth Hospice), Christopher Mason (Bates Wells & Braithwaite Solicitors, Ipswich), Chris Chenery (Chenery Creative Ltd) and Nigel Poorly (Poorly PC)

COMBATING LONELINESS

If you’ve got an hour to spare in your week, Age UK Suffolk would love to hear from you. Following a donation from councillor Robert Whiting, the charity is reigniting its befriending service in Kesgrave and Rushmere and is looking to recruit new volunteers. Karen Howman, head of client services at Age UK Suffolk, explains: “The idea behind the scheme is to bring some of the outside world to members of our community that may feel isolated and lonely. Loneliness is a major problem nationally and here in Suffolk, and we have people benefitting from this service that range from 60 years up to 102! “We’re looking for volunteers willing to offer just an hour a week

to meet up with a local resident, share a cup of tea and have a chat, share a book or perhaps enjoy a game of Scrabble. It’s this simple social interaction that makes such a positive impact to somebody’s weekly routine.” Age UK Suffolk hopes to recruit up to five new volunteers and as Karen says: “We offer an induction course explaining all about the scheme and support volunteers on an ongoing basis. Volunteers will need to complete an application, provide references and undertake a DBS check, which is free to volunteers. “We then match volunteers with those requesting the service and accompany them on their first home visit. Our service is designed for older people, they can refer

themselves or have someone refer on their behalf. We also receive referrals from health professionals. The service is also available to those who live alone as well as those who live in care homes and sheltered accommodation.” Rita has benefitted from regular visits from a befriender and says: “I really feel the loss of having nobody here. It’s been a great thing having June come and visit. We spend a lot of time talking to each other, in fact we don’t stop!” Donating over £1,500 from his charity budget to the initiative, councillor Robert Whiting adds: “As I go around both Kesgrave and Rushmere St Andrew I am acutely aware of the social isolation in our community. Older people can go for days without seeing anyone, and what better way to help overcome this issue than community members helping each other.” l If you think you’d like to find out more about this great scheme, contact befriending coordinator Becky Colquhoun on 01473 353061.

Pictured left: Loneliness is a major problem nationally and here in Suffolk Picture by Georgie Scott for Age UK

ISSUE ONE… SUMMER 2016

“I WAS KBB’S VERY FIRST CUSTOMER WHEN THEY SET THE BUSINESS UP MANY YEARS AGO AND SO THIS IS THE SECOND KITCHEN THEY’VE PUT IN FOR ME. They’re great lads - anything I wanted tweaking wasn’t a problem for them. We came up with different ideas together and they were very professional and accommodating. I know other people who have used them who have been really pleased too.” Sophia Forman

THE KBB CENTRE One of the largest independent kitchen and bathroom retailers in East Anglia, The KBB Centre is owned and managed by brothers, Roger and Patrick Peck. Its stunning showroom on Dales Road, Ipswich, provides over 5,000 square feet of kitchen, bathroom and bedroom displays, with an unrivalled choice of doors, work surfaces, appliances, tiles, bathroom accessories and fitted bedroom furniture. “We are a family run business with family values and have been offering customers a first-class service for the last 15 years. Only using our own in-house plumbers, plasterers and electricians enables us to offer a unique fully managed service,” says Roger Peck.

RAY PAYNE OF HINTLESHAM HALL SET KBB A TALL CHALLENGE ... TO REFURBISH AND DESIGN THE LUXURY HOTEL’S BATHROOM SUITES “With 32 individually designed and decorated bedrooms and ensuite bathrooms, we are always looking to find that little extra in terms of style but reminding ourselves we are a hotel and whatever fixtures, fittings and design we choose has to be practical and durable. Working with KBB we have created new bathrooms at the Hall that have thrilled our customers and have helped those rooms to be one of our most frequently requested from repeat guests. Given a brief from the hotel, KBB provided expert advice in choosing the right fittings for the bathroom suite we had envisaged at the Hall.”

L a rg e S h ow ro o m : 8 5 D a l e s Ro a d , I p sw i c h , S u f fo l k I P 1 4 J R www.t h e k b b ce n t re.co. u k Te l : 01 473 74 2 2 0 0

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MARATHON MUM!

Local mum-of-two Helen Davies juggles parenthood with representing England in the Toronto Waterfront Marathon (as you do!) …

“

always enjoyed running and cross country at high school. When I was 14 my mum got me a gym membership and I loved the feeling of working out; you could argue I was a little addicted to keeping fit! I discovered my love of running again in my early 20’s when I was renting my first house in Grundisburgh. Money was tight and I couldn’t really afford a gym membership so I took up running to get my fitness fix. I enjoyed early morning 30 minute runs around the country lanes of Grundisburgh, Culpho and Bealings …. this soon became my chosen form of exercise and I loved being out in the fresh air and how great it made me feel. My ‘eureka’ moment occurred when a friend who was a member of the Woodbridge Shufflers running club suggested I enter the Woodbridge ‘Round the Town’ 10k Race back in 2003. I did this and massively surprised myself by finishing as third lady. I carried on running for fun and completed the race the following year, finishing as third lady again, only two minutes quicker than the previous year. I then joined the Ipswich Jaffas (where I met my husband Gavin!) and it soon became apparent that I had a talent for longer distance and in 2005 I ran my first marathon, the Bungay Black Dog, and won! In three hours and 13 minutes to be precise, gaining a championship qualification time for the London Marathon in 2006.

I was then helped by a coach at the Ipswich Jaffas called Clive Sparkes and I completed the London Marathon in 2.56! I continue to be coached by Clive to this day. My first England call-up came in 2008, as part of the England Athletics marathon development squad being sent to represent the country in the Toronto Waterfront Marathon. It was the catalyst to my international marathon running career, achieving selection again for Toronto in 2009 as part of the main team, and then GB and England selection at the Euros and Commonwealth Games in 2010. My biggest achievement to date came that very year; being selected to run for GB in the marathon at the European championships in Barcelona where we achieved a team Bronze medal. Also that year I was selected to run for England at the Commonwealth Games in New Delhi, where I finished eighth. More recently, after a five year break from marathon running to have children, I made a return last year at the Brighton Marathon where I was ladies champion in a time of 2.42, and then retaining the title this year in a time of 2.38. Now ten years on, I’m busy training for a return visit to the Toronto Waterfront Marathon - it will be an honour and a privilege to be running in the England vest in this wonderful city again.”

Helen, who has two sons - Kingsley, five, and Hector, three - reckons motherhood is the best training ground for marathons … “I’m probably fitter and stronger now than when I was at the height of my career in 2012. This is largely down to being mentally stronger … nothing toughens you up more than becoming a mummy! And what’s a little bit of pain over a race when you have been though childbirth?! After the children I hadn’t really planned to get back into competitive running and expected nothing. I joined

Airborne Fitness in Woodbridge and had personal training with Luke Read there. I took each day as it came and waited to see what my body would give me. It has gone better than I ever could have anticipated. I find my running is so much healthier now, as it’s not my everything any more. Being the best mummy possible to my boys is my number one priority, and being a competitive runner just has to fit in around this, which it does. I should also mention the huge amount of support I get from my family in order for me to do this;

l Helen takes part in the Toronto Waterfront Marathon on October 21st … the very best of luck to her!

Picture by James Richardson

Top: Helen finishing the Brighton Marathon this year as ladies champ again Above: Helen and her boys

in particular the boys’ grandparents, my mum Elaine and husband Gavin. Running is my thing. It’s my passion. My little bit of ‘me’ time to escape; where I can be Helen and not mummy for a few hours, to challenge myself and achieve things that I can be proud of and that hopefully inspires my boys and other mums as well. I could have a dozen excuses every day to not run, but I ignore them and get out there and do it as it’s normally my only chance in that hour or two that I have free, so I have to make it count …”

ISSUE ONE… SUMMER 2016

14:32

HOME FROM HOME Spanish teacher Monica Pallares moved to Suffolk not knowing a soul and managed to find a close network of Spanish friends right here on her doorstep… Pictures by John Ferguson

ooking around Monica Pallares’ gorgeous Grange Farm home, it’s easy to see how much she and her family love travelling. Not least because of the impressive fridge magnet collection in pride of place in their kitchen – there must be at least 50 from countries all around the world, ranging from Malaysia (where she and husband Andy enjoyed their 1998 honeymoon) to Europe and Oman. “Every time we visit somewhere we buy one and put it up on the fridge when we get home,” says Spanish-born Monica. “It’s always a talking point when people come round!” It’s easy to see why Monica, who teaches at Woodbridge and Farlingaye schools, loves her lightfilled home. The family moved into the three-storey, five-bed townhouse four years ago and has never looked back. “We’d sold our house in Ipswich and when we came to look at this, I just fell in love with it,” recalls the mum of two teenage daughters. “But it was quite highly priced and we couldn’t afford it, so we looked at another one just across the road which was similar – but I had my heart set on this one. I was so happy when they reduced the price here and we got it! It was my dream home and we hardly had to do

ISSUE ONE… SUMMER 2016

anything to it. Even the floor in the kitchen has Spanish-style tiles on it, just like you’d get at home. “Everything in here was my taste. All our furniture went so well in here; it was all meant to be. The only thing we had to do was paint the girls’ bedrooms.” Monica says she loves the ease of life in Grange Farm and the friendly neighbourhood. “I also love living here because I work in Woodbridge and I also teach Spanish classes for adults in Ipswich so it’s right in the middle to get to both. “I also like the fact that I can go on my bike on the local cycle lanes which take you all the way to the school and on to Tesco and the library, it’s really lovely. It’s peaceful and safe and it’s not built-up or noisy.” Madrid-born Monica first met husband Andy in 1995 when he’d crewed a boat to her hometown of La Coruña on the north west of Spain and they married in 1998. Andy, who now runs his own computer business, was a helicopter pilot in the army at the time and the couple came to live in Suffolk where he was posted. It could have been a somewhat lonely and isolating experience for Monica but for her quick-thinking health visitor (during her pregnancy)

who introduced her to a fellow Spanish mum-to-be. “We met and got on really well and then she introduced me to these other Spanish women she knew who coincidentally lived nearby, which was incredibly lucky. We all became very good friends,” says Monica. “Living away from your home country, you miss speaking with other people in Spanish. It was why I wanted to live around here so much. “When my daughters were very young we used to hire the hall in Rushmere St Andrew twice a month and take homemade food and play games and read stories to the kids in Spanish. I’m lucky to have such a strong support group.”

“It’s my dream home, I was so happy when we moved in …” And not only that, Monica says the climate in this part of the country is not dissimilar to that of the north west coast of Spain where she grew up. “It’s very similar to here in that it’s very green and it used to rain a lot, like here, but now it’s much drier.” Monica’s lovely house, which is adorned with family photos, is a treasure trove of knick-knacks

from all around the world. One corner of the kitchen boasts some beautiful Middle Eastern lanterns and objet d’art. “I call this part of the kitchen my Arabic corner,” she smiles as she strokes the family dog, a friendly beagle called Luna. “We love Oman and have good friends there. “Andy first met them when he was on a business trip over there and they are the most lovely Arabic people, and so the next time he went over I went with him and met them and their family and we all got on just great. Now we are all firm friends and they have visited here too. “Oman is a very special place to us. I buy something every time we go there – I love all the lanterns and cushions.” As with many townhouses, her vast sitting room, which runs from the rear to the front of the house, is located on the first floor. “It works well as Andy now works from home so he’s based in there during the days,” she says. Other times, Monica might be tutoring her private students in Spanish in her spacious contemporary kitchen which is the hub of the home. Monica has taught all ages in the art of Spanish speaking, writing and reading, from teens to pensioners. In

between her part-time school role as teaching assistant to GCSE and A level students, Monica also teaches adult evening classes at the Ipswich Institute. “In fact it was adult learning that I went into when I first moved over here,” she says. “I taught in Colchester and it was very rewarding; we had a lovely group of people who all wanted to learn the language as they had holiday homes out in Spain or just wanted to learn for fun,” she smiles. “It’s a very rewarding thing to do. I love my work, it’s so varied. “Last year I ran Spanish for Beginners at the Ipswich Institute as part of their evening course programme and it went very well.” Monica also offers private tuition to students who want to top up their GCSE or A level studies and also teaches homeschooled children. “I’m lucky to have such a great and varied job,” she says. She may call it luck, but Monica has worked hard to build a fantastic home and life in this part of the world.

Clockwise from top left: Monica relaxes in her bright, airy living room; the hub of the Grange Farm family home; black and white chic; ornaments from Oman – “a very special place”; fridge magnets are a reminder of many trips abroad; ornate details complete the perfectlypresented townhouse

l If you are interested in her courses at the Ipswich Institute, call them direct on 01473 253992. For private tutoring contact her on monica.pallares@linescanner.co.uk ISSUE ONE… SUMMER 2016

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MOVERS & SHAKERS

Pictured: Alt-folk music artist Elly Picture by John Ferguson

Elly Tree is a talented singer-songwriter from Kesgrave … Tell us about your name … My real name is Helen Woodbridge. I didn’t know there was a town called that until I moved to Suffolk – I grew up by the sea in Folkestone. My dad used to call me Helly, which I hated, so I took the ‘H’ off! And I love trees, hence the name. Tell us about your singing … People loosely class the style of music as folk; perhaps alt-folk would be more appropriate. At the moment our band line-up is Andy Heasman (from Martlesham) on bass, me on vocals and baritone uke/guitar and another local, Hannah Hinchcliffe (from Kesgrave), is on sax and flute. And you write all your own songs … They’re usually reflections of personal observations and things that have happened, of people or events that I’ve had or witnessed. Topics range from news events, love and relationships, and life’s challenges, to gardens, the sea and near-death experiences. How long have you been singing? Ever since I can remember. I don’t think my family really noticed, but I taught myself to play guitar, after

a fashion, around the age of 12–13 and started writing songs, mostly teenage angst and anti-war songs because it was the time of the Vietnam war, and the arms race between America and the USSR was always in the news. I played in local folk clubs and sitting on the harbour wall ... Musically-speaking, what has been your biggest achievement? That’s a hard one! The latest song you’ve written always seems like the best one ... for a while anyway. We played the Monument Stage at Ipswich Music Day this year; that was good. There have been a couple of tracks played on BBC Music Introducing and I’ve played live on the radio a couple of times, both solo and with Andy from the band. We’ve made a couple of CDs too and played at some local festivals like FolkEast, Weird and Wonderful Wood and Cosmic Puffin. Other than that, putting on an album release event last year at the Smokehouse in Ipswich for our latest CD, Walking Backwards, was quite an undertaking. I’m the world’s worst organiser/publicist ... It was nerve-wracking waiting to see if anyone would turn up, but

in the end it was packed, so that was a relief! What do you like about Kesgrave? It’s nice to be able to access the shops but also to be able to go for a walk in the countryside. I have good neighbours. There are amenities nearby and it’s a peaceful place to be. I like the fact that there’s a feeling of space here.

“Kesgrave is a peaceful place” If you could have one wish granted locally, what would it be? I was a member of the Venue for Ipswich Campaign back in the 90s and it always seems odd to me that Colchester, Norwich, Bury and even Stowmarket all support a dedicated arts centre but that a town as big as Ipswich doesn’t. There are some venues but nothing CHECK IT OUT on the scale of those. Elly Tree will be performing at That’s a great shame. Tell us a secret about yourself. Well if I told you, it wouldn’t be a secret, would it!

Woodbridge Maritime Festival on September 9th, and Aldeburgh Food & Drink Festival over the weekend of September 29th and 30th. To listen to her music, find her on SoundCloud or YouTube. For beginner lessons on the ukulele, call her on 07913 738897 or email helenwoodbridge@hotmail.com ISSUE ONE… SUMMER 2016

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ISSUE ONE… SUMMER 2016

LIVING IN

BLISS!

Your pull-out-and-keep guide to all things wedding ...

WHAT MAKES A WEDDING SPECIAL? THE HANGAR AT MILSOMS KESGRAVE HALL …

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

Catch anyone walking in the door for the first time and you will see their eyes light up. As one of Suffolk’s most unique event venues it has definitely got WOW factor.

he area has been designed with huge attention to detail; from the silk lined walls and leather sofas to the fabulous lighting and black starlit ceiling. In the evening, part of the fun is to turn down the lights (which can be themed to match the colour scheme), turn up the music and the haze machine - and party! The event team will be with you every step of the way from the first planning meeting to the day itself and will run the wedding with huge attention to detail allowing the wedding party to relax and enjoy the day. The menus have been specially chosen by executive head chef, Stuart Oliver, with delicious food cooked in the Hangar’s dedicated kitchen. Photo opportunities abound in the upper garden which is dedicated to weddings, parties and events in the Hangar.

We work closely and recommend several suppliers from florists, videographers to DJ’s and photographers but of course, we are more than happy to work with your preferred supplier. To complete the picture there are 23 bedrooms in the hotel which can be booked for the bridal party. Another idea is to arrive and stay the night before, book The Bunker with its own terrace and enjoy an informal barbecue with family and close friends. l To find out more, either call in or download a brochure from our website. Milsoms Kesgrave Hall, Hall Road, Kesgrave, Suffolk IP5 2PU 01473 333741 | events@kesgravehall.com www.milsomweddings.com

WEDDING BLISS! UFFORD PARK HOTEL

oin us for our last Wedding Open Day of 2018 on Sunday 14th October (10am – 3pm) to experience what makes Ufford Park Woodbridge the ideal choice for your special day! It’s the perfect chance for us to show you around our wedding venue and the fantastic facilities we have to offer. Our Deben Suite will be dressed for the occasion and our wedding team on hand with complimentary prosecco and canapés to help you plan your special day and answer any questions you may have. l Free entry and parking. l No need to book - just pop along and say hello. l www.uffordpark.com l T: 01394 383555 ext.302

Planning your wedding and fancy something out of the ordinary, a day that will have your guests talking long after the honeymoon is over? Then look no further …

rganising that special day can sometimes feel like a minefield but we’ve taken some of the headache out of it for you here and found some real gems. Do you love camping? Fancy waking up, having tied the knot, to the magical sound of birdsong while your guests are cooking their breakfast nearby? Forget about all the rigmarole over how guests are getting to and from the venue. Simply get them to bring a tent and focus on enjoying your big day! Or maybe you’d prefer a breath-taking afternoon tea wedding or one with a barbecue complete with meadow and river views?

Fancy waking up, having tied the knot, to the magical sound of birdsong while your guests are cooking their breakfast nearby?

EMILIE RILEY HAIR

“

eing invited to be part of a bride’s wedding day is a pleasure I get to experience most weekends during the peak wedding session... I get to relive my big day over again,” says freelance hairstylist Laura Middlemiss of Emilie Riley Hair. “My preferred style is romantic, Grecian, natural bridal put-ups, and it seems to come naturally to me.” Offering a full service, Laura’s work includes everything from blow-dries for mothers of the bride to half ups and curls for the bridesmaids and full extravagant creations for the bride, working with head jewellery or flower crowns and securing the all-important veil in place just before the bride walks out the door. l www.facebook.com/emilierileyhair l T: 07802 245950

AMELIA & ALICE

melia and Alice is a bridal boutique with a difference. Recently opened and located on Market Hill in Woodbridge, the boutique stocks exquisite bridal gowns from world acclaimed designers, allowing every bride to express their own individual style and personality on their wedding day. Dresses from Charlie Brear, Halfpenny London, Rosa Clara and Sassi Holford sit alongside Ghost London bridesmaid dresses. Most gowns are exclusive to Suffolk and Norfolk. Offering a friendly and personal service with exclusive use of the boutique, contact Sarah and Sharon for an appointment or check online for forthcoming Designer Days. l info@ameliaandalicebridal.co.uk l T: 01394 445082

www.bushfirephotography.co.uk

Dan’s Meadow is a beautiful venue located right on our very own doorstep, based in Martlesham and offering 4.5acres of secluded beauty bordered by beautiful woodlands and the picturesque River Fynn. Following major redevelopment in 2014 the venue opened up for its first wedding in 2015 and has never looked back. Owner, Andrew Garrard, says: “We even have blessings here. It’s proving very popular.” By teaming up with the Wedding Collection by Boleyn it can also offer all-inclusive wedding packages. With unlimited parking on site and a beautiful area near the river for those all-important pictures, who could ask for more? WEDDING PETS So many of us would love to include our dogs on our wedding day, but with the focus on having a fabulous time and looking after family and friends, it may not always seem possible. Kesgrave-based Amanda’s Ark offers a professional dog chaperone wedding service and can accompany your dog to your big day, for inclusion in your pre and post ceremony wedding photographs. It also offers home dog boarding both before and after your big day. Owner, Amanda Fraser Fish, tells us: “I have over 18 years’ experience in dog handling and animal care and am fully insured and licensed. Amanda’s Ark takes full responsibility for your dogs on the day, which means that your best pals can be part of the wedding photographs, but without one of the wedding party having to be on ‘dog handling duty!’ Our focus is always on the health and safety of the dogs, the public and the venue, whilst at the same time ensuring that we can create the best situations for their involvement in your wedding photographs.” l For more details, go to: www.amandasark.co.uk

SMASHING WINES

mashing Wines knows the importance of selecting the perfect wines for the big day! As French wine specialists concentrating on natural and organic wines produced by small producers, this independent store offers wines you won’t see on the supermarket shelf, and that don’t bust the budget. From fantastic fizz for when the bride is getting ready to delicious dessert wines to end the wedding breakfast, as well as everything in between, Smashing Wines is passionate about the wines it offers. Private tastings, reduced prices on wedding orders, and all wines offered on a sale or return basis are just part of the Smashing Wines way. l www.smashingwines.co.uk l T: 01394 394007

BRUISYARD HALL

ruisyard Hall is spilling over with luxury, history and charm. It is warm and welcoming and has an impressive medieval barn conversion that’s perfect for weddings of all types. Wedding parties stay in the beautiful hall for three nights over a weekend or two during the week, with exclusive use of the house itself, including a games room, attic bar and fully equipped kitchen. Sleeping 24, Bruisyard Hall is run by a friendly and flexible family team, dedicated to making your event as carefree and special as possible.

MARK WITTER PHOTOGRAPHY

l Bruisyard Hall is hosting a wedding open day on 30th September, 11am-3pm. l Book your free place at www.bruisyardhall.com/events l T: 01728 639 000

e create distinctive and memorable images with our modern, documentary style wedding photography, combining a twist of fashion and loads of romance, capturing the story of your day as

it unfolds … We are friendly and relaxed, offering you a great service before and after your big day. On the day we simply come along and photograph your wedding leaving you with loads of lovely photographs afterwards, all individually edited and hosted in an online gallery. Pre-wedding engagement shoots, exquisite albums, USB folios and mementos are available. Why not add a sparkling extra dimension of glamour and fun to your reception with our mobile photo booth / studio? l www.markwitterphotography.com l T: 07738 558 934

PAUL THOMPSON EVENTS

n established event catering company, Paul Thompson Events is based at the Cookhouse, Ipswich. Paul and his team work closely with a number of leading local venues including Butley Priory, Pettistree House, The Old Neptune House, Ipswich and Ringshall Grange, Stowmarket. Paul Thompson Events will work closely with you to create your dream event and his dedicated and professional team will guide you through building a bespoke menu, leaving you and your guests to experience a delicious meal, expertly prepared and with seamless delivery. For further details please contact the team. l info@paulthompsonevents.co.uk l www.paulthompsonevents.co.uk.

KAYE SOUTER FLOWERS

ased in Rushmere St Andrew, professional freelance florist Kaye Souter offers consultation appointments in her workshop/office at which brides-to-be can view her portfolio and discuss at length their requirements for their special day. Taking into consideration the bride’s influences and wedding themes, Kaye suggests a range of floral ideas and designs to suit both expectations and budgets. Then, on the wedding day Kaye delivers, personally where possible, all the bridal flowers and works in conjunction with both wedding and reception venues to ensure the wedding couple’s wishes are met. l www.kayesouterflowers.co.uk l T: 01473 72337

ISSUE ONE… SUMMER 2016

GARDENING

HOW DOES YOUR GARDEN GROW?

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

Local garden designer Nick Nicholson on the lessons we have learnt from our long hot summer …

“

garden’ favourites like Cynara, Acanthus and Lychnis coronaria really struggled this summer. Also, Mediterranean cypresses, which bake happily in continental summers, nevertheless need regular watering for the first two years before they have their roots down sufficiently to support themselves and sustain the wonderful vertical accents and sense of grandeur they give to a planting scheme.

NICK’S DRY DELIGHTS Stipa tenuissima Wispy grass. Sways in the lightest breeze Perovskia ‘Blue Spires’ Fragrant Russian sage Lavender All varieties Salvia ‘Purpurascens’ Purple sage (pictured right) Yucca gloriosa Grand flower spikes Helichrysum italicum Curry plant Kniphofia ‘Bee’s Sunset’ Sunset flowers combine perfectly with perovskia

“We should probably be prepared for further dry summers” So, should we expect now a succession of long dry summers as the norm, or is the weather going to confound us with its unpredictability? In the mid-90s, after a succession of hot, dry summers, we were advised to tear up our lawns and start growing yuccas and palms, which now seems a little hasty with the hindsight of frequent flash flooding and some very cold winters. However, in Suffolk at least, we should probably be prepared for further dry springs and summers, combined with frequent high temperatures in the future – and if we get the odd cool, wet spring and summer, we can certainly live with that as gardeners!”

So, is there anything we can learn from the summer of 2018 to help us better prepare for future garden planting proposals? Here are some ideas: l Lay a mulch of well-rotted manure or garden compost around new planting immediately after watering, to help retain soil moisture, keep the soil cooler and suppress weeds. l Regular irrigation during hot, dry weather but don’t spoil your plants by overdoing this as they won’t bother fully extending their root systems to strengthen their resistance. l Observe what happens. Are some plants struggling to compete with other neighbours? Or are certain areas missing out on rainwater – like underneath trees? l Choose appropriate species – desirable plants with high drought resistance, such as those suggested above.

ISSUE ONE… SUMMER 2016

Picture of Nick by John Ferguson

hat a year we’ve had in the garden! What is the weather playing at? Then again, don’t we say this every year? Doesn’t every year have its extremes of weather to ensure conversation in pubs and restaurants countrywide? In Suffolk, 2017 brought an unusually dry spring, with a relatively wet summer to compensate, whereas 2018 has delivered a wonderful long summer of sunshine, high temperatures, but virtually no rain for two months, which has taken a heavy toll on a range of plants. Though lawns – baked to a crispy mat by late July – soon bounced back and greened up by late August, for many plants this was simply too much. I watched reliable stalwarts like Aucuba (spotted laurel), Hebe (from New Zealand) and others, wither, blacken and even die in local gardens. Areas newly planted in the last year or two have been particularly vulnerable. Even if you select plants with known drought resistance, it may take at least two seasons for them to establish sufficiently to develop this advantage. The problem worsens on light, sandy soils which dry out very quickly during dry, hot weather. In client gardens, newly-planted ‘dry

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

Pictured left: Members of the award-winning Gotelee team: (L-R) Francesca Reason, Howard Catherall, Helen Crapnell and Murray Gibson Above: Due diligence is a doddle with the Guardian app

SMARTPHONE

SUCCESS Gotelee’s innovative app gains industry recognition for the top local legal team

hilst we all understand the personal services offered by a firm of solicitors, such as conveyancing, will making and mediation, Gotelee is breaking the mould when it comes to supporting its business clients. And receiving industry recognition for its efforts too. This, a first-to-market app, the Gotelee Guardian, is for those involved in e-commerce distribution. The technology was recently awarded the Innovation in Technology Award at the annual UK Warehousing Association Awards, hosted at the Dorchester, London. Howard Catherall, transport and logistics law partner at Gotelee says: “The aim behind the Guardian app is to help those involved in businesses such as fulfilment houses and warehousing, to comply with product safety rules. “Simple to use, Guardian generates a clearly documented audit trail to demonstrate that a product safety due diligence check has been completed on

a specified date and time. A report is then generated, which enables the fulfilment house or warehouse keeper to take the appropriate action to help ensure that unsafe products do not leave the premises.” As it’s Gotelee’s first foray into app development, everyone is delighted that their efforts have been recognised by the UK Warehousing Association. Howard continues: “Our intention was always to create an app that benefits the whole logistics community and not just our clients. We’re delighted that it’s now available as a download for all smartphones, and receiving industry recognition for our efforts was the cherry on the top.” l The Gotelee Guardian app is available to download for £19.99 from the App Store and Google Play. l To find out more about Gotelee’s Transport and Logistics legal offering, call 01473 298190 or visit www.gotelee.co.uk/ business-services/road-transport

YOUR BRAND NEW FREE HOMES & LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

HERE TO HELP Supporting business clients from start-ups to industry leaders, Gotelee has the expertise to help. Whether that’s providing legal advice and updates on regulations affecting your industry, or helping to make your business run easier, Gotelee’s business services cover:

l Business crime lawyers l Business immigration l Business law l Commercial dispute resolution l Commercial property l Debt recovery l Employment law l Planning l Regulatory

For more information about the business and personal legal services offered, visit www.gotelee.co.uk or call the Woodbridge office on 01394 388605.

“Our intention was always to create an app that benefits the whole logistics community” HOWARD CATHERALL, TRANSPORT AND LOGISTICS LAW PARTNER ISSUE ONE… SUMMER 2016

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BUSINESS AS USUAL

Our pick of the latest news from companies and services in the area

WALLPAPER WHIMSY

ATTENTION TO DETAIL

Based on the Martlesham Heath business estate, there’s nothing that Pippa Rolls doesn’t know about interior styling – whether that’s making stunning bespoke curtains or helping clients to select stand-out from the crowd wallpapers. Pippa says: “We’re very excited to have just taken delivery of the complete collection of new wallpaper books from Cole & Sons, which has been designing and printing wallpaper since 1875. Included in the range is a fabulous Fornasetti collection, featuring architectural, eccentric and playful motifs, as well as

With over 30 years in the building industry, Mark Crisp of Chapel Properties knows that listening to a client’s needs and attention to detail are key to a successful building or renovation project. Woodbridge-based and currently working on projects across the region, Mark says: “We have a full-time team of over 25 crafts and tradesmen and so have the expertise and manpower to take on projects of all sizes, from a single floor extension to building a client’s dream home.

BARRACK Q SOUARE BEAUTY Tucked away on Barrack Square in Martlesham is the very discreet Hunter House Clinic. With its treasure trove of beauty, aesthetic and laser treatments, Hunter House Clinic offers clients a more radiant and youthful appearance. Owner Elizabeth Hunter is a qualified independent nurse prescriber and an aesthetic medical practitioner. Performing medical cosmetic treatments for over 12 years, she says: “I am passionate about helping people look and feel fantastic. Part of my role as an aesthetic medical practitioner is to give people honest and professional

a stunning new collaboration with interior designer Martyn Lawrence Bullard who brings a touch of Californian west coast to our Suffolk east coast.” l www.pipparolls.com advice and help them through the decision-making process, whilst always taking a ‘less is more’ approach. “ Take your copy of Living In … Martlesham & Kesgrave to Hunter House Clinic to receive your 10% discount on any beauty treatment (T&Cs apply). l Go to www.hunterhouse clinic.com

“In a very short time, we’ve developed a reputation for a premium quality service. Doing a great job and enjoying a good reputation is extremely important to me. “With our office based near the train station at Woodbridge, we’re also always on hand for people to pop in and chat through any renovation ideas they may have. Chapel Properties isn’t about becoming the biggest building company in Suffolk, but it is about being known as one of the best.” l Go to www.chapel properties.co.uk

LIVING THE BEST LIFE Heading back to school brings a host of challenges and anxieties to many youngsters – whether it’s because they’re starting a new school, heading into a GCSE year, or having to revisit friendship issues put on the back burner over the summer holidays. Having spent 28 years in education, and 16 of those as a school head, personal coach Jacqui Frost is ideally placed to work with children and young adults. “I believe we should all live the best life we can be but sometimes this gets hidden, especially during our school years,” says Jacqui. “The work I do with clients – youngsters and adults alike – is all about finding and reigniting that best version. Making the first appointment is often the hardest part,

but it’s such an important step as it shows a desire for change. The best feeling ever is working with a young person and seeing them reconnect with everything that’s great about themselves.” l www.jfpersonalcoach.com

ISSUE ONE… SUMMER 2016

ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

So good I bought the

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

Company!

YOUR BRAND NEW FREE HOMES & LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

Customer David Woodhouse was so impressed with the service he received from Tony Flower and Associates he is now running the show …

than problem solving for clients,” he says. “But I was ready for a career change.” “I wanted to combine all the practical skills I’d also acquired for a new career as a surveyor in remedial treatments and structural waterproofing,” he says. He decided to jump ship and wrote to Tony Flower asking if there were any vacancies, unaware that Tony had his own plans to semi-retire and sell the firm. Tony’s name has long been synonymous with great service and experience in this region for many years and since taking over David is now carrying on that tradition, although he’s not alone. “Tony and I talk every other week – he’s still very supportive and involved in the business when he needs to be,” says David, who went on to excel in his studies and has since become a Certified Surveyor in Structural Waterproofing (CSSW) and a Certified Surveyor in Remedial Treatments (CSRT), and also won the PCA student of the year award 2017, Now he’s happy building up a business which he is clearly passionate about, elevating its profile even higher and offering a range of extra services. Outside of his work, family man David loves nothing more than spending time with his daughter and wife. “They are the best thing that ever happened to me,” he smiles. l For more information go to www.tflower.uk or call David on 01394 278822.

WHAT DOES TONY FLOWER AND ASSOCIATES OFFER? • Damp proofing including rising damp, penetrating damp, timber treatment, dry rot, wet rot, insect infestation, brick repair crack stitching and condensation. Tony Flower and Associates offer a solution to suit all. • Structural waterproofing which includes build and design of retrofit and new build basements to provide a fully dry living environment. • Specialist plastering and rendering. For added peace of mind, the company is also a member of the esteemed Property Care Association (PCA), which represents the UK’s damp proofing and timber preservation sector, as well as the structural waterproofing and structural repair industries. The association’s national list of contractor members are all carefully vetted before being awarded membership and are then subject to rigorous auditing procedures once admitted to the PCA.

ISSUE ONE… SUMMER 2016

Pictures courtesy of Safeguard Europe and Wykamol

amp. It’s a word which strikes fear into the heart of many a home owner. For David Woodhouse he was about to buy a house which he intended to renovate himself when he discovered decay in the roof timbers due to a cracked tile. David recalls: “The building surveyor recommended this reputable local firm called Tony Flower and Associates and when Tony came to assess it I told him my main concern was that it might be dry rot. But Tony was so experienced, having worked in the industry since the Seventies, he totally reassured me it wasn’t that and showed me how to cut out the damaged timber and replace it.” David called Tony in again once he’d bought the house, when he discovered black mould and damp behind a wardrobe. “Straight away he identified single skin brickwork where we’d removed a door which had left us with a cold wall,” he says. “I was very impressed with his obvious knowledge and also I really enjoyed putting it right and felt I had a natural aptitude for it.” David has always been interested in how things work – a self-taught builder, he’s totally renovated two properties, is currently on his third, and can rewire, plumb and plaster a property to a good standard. It was 2015 and he felt he’d risen as far as he could in shipping, working in freight forwarding. His real skill, he thought, lay in customer service. “I loved nothing more

Above: David can transform a musty basement Left: Wykamol products stop woodworm in their tracks Below: Tanking to waterproof a basement Bottom: David only uses the very best products on the market like Safeguard Europe Bottom left: Specialist plastering services

IT TAKES TWO TO

TANGO!

Time to put on your dancing shoes as we learn all about the passion of Argentine tango …

he most evocative of dances, tango has its roots in early 1900s Buenos Aries, and here in Suffolk it’s positively thriving. Cliff Hoppitt, one of the original founders of Suffolk Tango, a group which runs classes and events in Suffolk, believes its popularity is due to its intensity and that both dancers – leader and follower – work together, totally immersed in their own personal interpretation of the music. “When you’re dancing tango, you’re just oblivious to everything else,” smiles Cliff. “But one thing we’re not is high kicks and red roses between the teeth. That’s show tango, not social Argentine tango.” With new classes starting on 17th September at Martlesham Community Centre Cliff urges anyone interested in dance to sign up for the 10-week beginners’ course. “You don’t need to come along with a partner as we change partners throughout the evening and you learn how to dance with any partner not just one. The

teachers, Richard Kett and Mandy Wilkinson of Woodbridge, have been dancing and teaching tango for many years. “Another positive is that there’s no long step sequences to learn. Mostly it’s two or three steps and then these short patterns form building blocks to interpret the music, making every dance unique.” With three types of Argentine tango

“You’re never too old … our oldest recruit was 90!” music, there’s different styles for everyone to master and enjoy. Firstly, there’s the regular tango, followed by tango vals, which Cliff likens to the pace of a Viennese waltz, with lots more turning and swirling. Then there’s milonga. Cliff adds “It’s very fast and so much fun.” Passionate about his hobby, Cliff came to dance comparatively late. “I was 50 when I started modern jive. I then moved onto salsa and then to Argentine tango. With other dances you can reach a plateau, but in tango there is always something new to learn. The challenge it presents is a huge part of its appeal and there’s nothing quite like dancing to the music of the early 40’s, the ‘golden age’ of tango.” Needing nothing other than a pair of smooth soled shoes in which you can swivel, tango can become addictive. “Whilst we keep classes comparatively small to ensure everyone gets individual guidance, we’ve over 500 followers on Facebook and our social dances, are hugely popular, bringing together dancers from across the region.”

Cliff says: “You’re never too old to start. Our oldest recruit was a gentleman from Woodbridge who was looking for something new as he’d just reached 90! However, he was the exception and generally classes include people in their twenties and upwards. “If you’re looking to try something new, challenge yourself and meet some great people at the same time, put on your dancing shoes and sign yourself up. We’d love to see you.” And if you do sign up to the classes after reading this, do let us know how it goes and we may feature your efforts in a future edition! l www.suffolktango.org.uk – pre-booking essential

Top: With tango there’s no long sequences to learn Left: A pair of smooth soled shoes in which you can swivel is all you need Above: “When you’re dancing tango, you’re just oblivious to everything else,” says Cliff.

ISSUE ONE… SUMMER 2016

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DOG ABOUT TOWN

“Being the oldest of these three, I’m top dog – I’m the good-looking deerhound on the left and my name is Albert. I’m quite happy to sit and watch these two mad fools, Grace and Arthur, as they charge around, often with a look of disdain on my face. Between you and I, I’m far too grown-up for all their shenanigans. Sadly,

my lovely brother Wilfred died at a young age last year. A few months later, in April of this year, my mum Julie’s friend also died and so we took on her dog, Grace, who’s also a deerhound. We’d always walked with her so she’s fitted in very well; too well really, judging by the way she larks around with Arthur. They’re both

two years old and seem to be on the same mad wavelength. Arthur, who’s a wolfhound, qualified for Crufts last year and has again this year. Anyone would think he’d won the Nobel Peace Prize the way they reacted around here. Still, I’m a lucky boy to be part of such a big loving family.”

ISSUE ONE… SUMMER 2016

EVENTS

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

YOUR BRAND NEW FREE HOMES & LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

AND ABOUT!

From chilled out to revved up, there’s a local event for you Madagascar the Musical

Ipswich Regent Tuesday, 16th – Saturday, 20th October Join Alex the lion, Marty the zebra, Melman the giraffe, Gloria the hippo and those hilarious, plotting penguins as they bound onto your stage in the musical adventure of a lifetime. Based on the smash DreamWorks

animated motion picture, Madagascar – A Musical Adventure follows the story as they escape from their home in New York’s Central Park Zoo and find themselves on an unexpected journey to the madcap world of King Julien’s Madagascar. Matinees on Thursday and Saturday. www.ipswichregent.com

Leisure Learning

Dog Day Fun

RSPCA, Mill Lane, Martlesham Sunday, 23rd September Our local RSPCA throws open its doors for its annual Open Day and Fun Dog Show at the end of September. With doggy fun planned from 11.30am to 3.30pm, here’s the perfect chance to show off your pooch’s skills and good looks. Dog classes include happiest hound, fabulous female, marvellous male, kids & k9s (a class for young handlers up to 16 years old) and there’s even a class for the young at heart (open to dogs over eight). The open day also provides a chance to see how well Project Winston (six new kennels and support facilities) is progressing. Parking is available at Martlesham Community Centre, with disabled only parking at the centre. All proceeds go directly to the RSPCA Suffolk East & Ipswich branch to help animals in need in the area. www.ipswich-rspca.org.uk

Fancy a boogie?

Kesgrave Community Centre Saturday, 22nd September Firm believers that dancing doesn’t stop when you reach 29, dance organisers Black Sheep Parties is back in Kesgrave hosting a fab 80/90s dance night. So grab your glad rags and be ready to hit the dance floor. With an evening of fantastic music planned – from the New Romantics to Britpop, they’re throwing in a few hits from the 00s for good measure too. Operating a ticket guest list, be sure to include the names of everyone in your party when booking. Over 21s only. www.blacksheepparties.co.uk

ISSUE ONE… SUMMER 2016

Suffolk New College, Ipswich With the new academic term upon us, how about taking up an evening class at Suffolk New College? There’s a host of leisure learning courses available, from household plumbing for beginners, to DJ techniques and performance, languages for beginners and improvers, creative writing and so much more. There’s even a series of one-day cookery masterclasses to whet your appetite. Here’s your chance to learn a new skill and enjoy some great ‘me’ time. Classes start in September and are open to anyone over 19. www.suffolk.ac.uk/leisurelearning

Car Crazy

Ipswich stadium, Foxhall Saturday, 6th October Head to Ipswich stadium for the biggest night of the year when it comes to banger racing – the 2018 Unlimited National Banger Championship of the World. This is

a vehicle’s last stop before heading off to the car crusher. With eight quality rounds of full contact racing and over 200 cars competing from all over the UK, Ireland and mainland Europe, the fun starts at 5pm. www.spedeworth.co.uk

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