LIVING IN
SUFFOLK
Bird Watch ... grab those binoculars!
Gift Guide ... Christmas emporium
Lost Glitter ... writing rescued me
GET INVOLVED …
If you’ve got a heartwarming or topical story to tell, an inspiring home or business to show off, or an event you’re planning, we’d love to hear from you! The copy deadline for our January / February edition is January 10th 2025. Do get in touch!
l For advertising information or if you’d like to submit any collaboration ideas and stories, email us at, info@livinginsuffolk.com
ON OUR COVER
...
We love this image of a festive robin taken by Andy Hay (rspb-images.com) as the world’s largest garden wildlife survey returns to Suffolk. Soon residents will watch and count their garden birds for the RSPB’s Big Garden Birdwatch.
l See page 5.
Editor: Angela Hagan 07930 184773, info@livinginsuffolk.com
Designer: Lewis Webb
Writer: Carl Stickley carl@livinginsuffolk.com
Media Sales: Ellie Rickard ellie@livinginsuffolk.com livinginsuffolk.com
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All your latest news from around Suffolk ... NEWS
EAST ANGLIA GOES GLOBAL!
Move over New York, London, Paris, Munich - there’s a new kid on the block who has just been voted one of the top ten regions IN THE WORLD!
Travel guide giant Lonely Planet has ranked East Anglia among the top ten regions around the globe for 2025, alongside Bavaria in Germany, Valais in Switzerland, The Terai in Nepal and others. Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2025 hardback book features stunning photography, local advice and essential experiences for each of the
destinations on this year’s list plus more online for travellers.
This is a real boost for East Anglia, which comprises Suffolk, Norfolk, Essex and Cambridgeshire, as we soon welcome in a new year. The region has been celebrated for offering a true taste of old England, combined with beautiful nature reserves perfect for birding such as Minsmere and Cley Marshes, lively coastal beach towns and picturesque inland waterways.
Chief Executive of Visit
awaits them.”
Britain / Visit England, Patricia Yates, says, “This accolade will encourage domestic and international visitors to explore more of the region and discover the warm welcome that
MP for Suffolk Coastal, Jenny RiddellCarpenter (pictured left), says, “We don’t get the same airtime as Cornwall or the Lake District – but we have everything to compete with it (and usually far better weather). Flying the flag for Suffolk and East Anglia through the Lonely Planet, helps our important tourism industry and our many small businesses across the region. By attracting more visitors, we can support local businesses, create and sustain jobs, whilst also showcasing the rich offerings of our special county.”
l To purchase the book visit, shop.lonelyplanet.com
SUFFOLK’S BIG GARDEN WATCH
The world’s largest garden wildlife survey returns, with hundreds of thousands of people watching and counting the UK’s garden birds over the last weekend in January for the RSPB’s Big Garden Birdwatch.
In 2024 over 600,000 people took part, counting more than 9.7 million birds, and over 12,000 of those passionate counters were right here in Suffolk.
People around the county will be asked again to spend an hour watching and counting the birds in their garden or local park, or from their balcony, then send their results to the RSPB. In Suffolk, the top five birds spotted in the 2024 Big Garden Birdwatch were; blue tits, house sparrows, woodpigeons, blackbirds and starlings.
The Birdwatch, which started in 1979, has become a much-loved annual citizen science event.
Beccy Speight, the RSPB’s Chief Executive, says, “It’s an opportunity for people to spend an hour watching, enjoying, and connecting with the wildlife on their doorstep. It’s good for wildlife and evidence shows it’s good for our own wellbeing.”
Registration for the Big Garden Birdwatch 2025 opens on 11th December. l Visit, rspb.org.uk/birdwatch
MP Jenny RiddellCarpenter
©Eleanor Bentall (rspb-images.com)
© David Cabrera/ Getty Images
ON THE MARKET
The latest homes and property news from around Suffolk ...
THE OLD NEPTUNE
This unique and stunning Grade II listed medieval merchant’s house complete with Italianate courtyard has set our pulses racing!
Declared a ‘house of national importance,’ it is one of the oldest residential buildings in Ipswich.
Based on a ‘hall house’ from 1490, it was extensively ‘modernised’ and heightened for a wealthy merchant in 1639, with many original details preserved - screens passage, huge open fireplace and plastered ceilings.
Following the decline of the wool trade in the 18th century, the house became a notorious waterside inn. Margaret Catchpole, the first woman to be shipped to Australia, aided and abetted her smuggler boyfriend,
Will Lord, by signalling when custom men were present. The inn flourished through the 19th century and was said to have been visited by Charles Dickens.
It fell into disrepair in the 1900’s and would have been lost if not for the efforts of George Bodley Scott, a local businessman and “Bon Viveur” who bought the house in 1947. He undertook much sympathetic restoration across his life including a wonderful study (now a bedroom). Panelled with 18th
century printer’s block and sloping leaded windows, it echoes the sea faring past of the property. He hosted many events and parties, after which the house became home to a local family who raised their five children there.
The current owners saw the potential of this incredible building and have run it as a celebration venue, with thousands of guests having stayed over the last 20 or so years.
The house has been sympathetically restored and maintained over the years, with the current interiors setting off the historic detailing which makes this property so spectacular. There is endless business potential as the property offers self-contained flats, an annexe and en-suite bedrooms.
The 15th and 16th century architecture, together with later additions, have been set off tastefully with furnishings, curtains and pictures, all of which can be included in the sale, subject to valuation.
A rare opportunity to acquire a complete lifestyle.
Price on application
l Call Jackson-Stops Ipswich on 01473 218218. Visit, Jackson-stops.co.uk
ANOTHER UNIQUE OPPORTUNITY ...
As part of its Signature collection, Fenn Wright brings to market this property set in around 2.33 acres with sweeping views in the sought after marina village of Levington. Offering approximately 3900sq ft, they tell us it is an individually designed and constructed timber-framed property with no onward chain. The main residence consists of four bedrooms, three reception rooms and two bathrooms, along with an additional two bed annexe. There is ample parking and a detached garage.
GUIDE PRICE: £1,100,000
l Call, 01473 232700. Visit, fennwright.co.uk
Call, 01394 383030
from Moose, Market Hill, Woodbridge. Call 01394 834816
l HAND AND BODY LOTION by interior designer, Caroline Fooks. Visit, carolinefooksdesign.com
l PEACE TREE DEC by Gallery Thea, gallerythea.co.uk
l BUILD YOUR OWN CHRISTMAS HAMPERS from The Suffolk Deli, Grundisburgh. Email, hello@thesuffolkdeli.com
l FESTIVE FELT JOY STOCKING from Oxfam shops onlineshop.oxfam.org
l STEEL CASTING GROUP OF THREE FIGURES by Saxmundham artist from award-winning George Farnham Gallery, Saxmundham. thegeorgefarnhamgallery.uk
l MIMOSA ROUND TRAY by Brie Harrison from Gallery Thea, Southwold. gallerythea.co.uk, brieharrison.com
l AMBER NECKLACES from Silver Sun Jewellery, 53a Thoroughfare, Woodbridge. Call 01394 382114
l E-BIKE GIFT VOUCHERS from Virtue Electric Bikes, Woodbridge. Visit, virtuelectricbikes.com
Christmas with CAROLINE FOOKS
This season interior designer Caroline Fooks is busy helping her clients get ready for a wonderful Christmas at home.
Having recently celebrated 20 years of transforming spaces into elegant, comfortable and timeless interiors, Caroline has an incredible contacts book filled with skilled craftspeople and tradesmen.
“I always work with local suppliers where possible and draw upon a workforce from my native Suffolk where I have completed many commissions,” says Caroline, who works between Woodbridge and Fulham.
It’s no surprise that she has amassed some pretty famous clients along the way – some household, some royal names - see her website for testimonials. But she prides herself on offering a highly discreet and personal service and offers careful attention
to detail to ensure that her clients’ inspirations are met and often exceeded.
“I have a down-toearth, flexible and practical approach to decorating and I am as happy to re-use and re-arrange favourite furnishings as I am to completely re-fitting a property; helping busy people see the transformation of an area into an elegant, usable and comfortable space,” she says.
“My personal style could be described as timeless and classic with a modern twist but clients’ own wishes are always my priority and by working closely together, we can realize the vision.”
Caroline’s vibrant portfolio includes a wide variety of projects including homes in her native East Anglia as well as
country and town houses, castles, chalets and holiday homes in the UK and abroad; also wedding venues, private member’s clubs and a premier league football club.
Caroline Fooks Interior Design also style houses for photographic shoots, often working alongside architects, relocation agents and property management.
If you want your home beautifully designed in time for Christmas, call Caroline and the team now.
l Caroline Fooks Design, The Barn, Melton, Woodbridge, IP12 1PE and Sulivan Enterprise Centre, Sulivan Road, Fulham, London SW6 3DJ. By appointment. Call, 07710 037591. Or visit, www.carolinefooksdesign.com
INTO THE DARKNESS!
The Suffolk rock band bringing glitz and glamour to the world of music ...
The story of The Darkness is one of rags to riches back to rags and then riches again! The band, who started life in Lowestoft and headlined at Latitude back in the summer, are enjoying a whole new level of fame.
The brainchild of talented brothers Justin and Dan Hawkins, The Darkness first hit the music scene in the early 2000s.
Justin’s incredible voice – falsetto with a five-octive range – only narrowly outmatched his wild, spandex-clad performances on stage.
Their lyrics featured their hometown with songs like Black Shuck about the legendary East Anglian ghostly hound.
“Lowestoft is a funny place,” said Justin. “It’s
small, but there’s always been something about it - this mixture of quiet and energy. “It’s where I grew up, but it’s also where I got my first taste of what the world had to offer. We’d play in local bands, and I’d often sneak into pubs to catch some of the older bands who played there. Those places were where I realised I wanted to do this for real.”
In 2003 their debut album, Permission To Land, rocketed to number one and its epic single, I Believe In A Thing Called Love, went to number two.
As the band grew in stature so did Justin’s dependence on drugs and alcohol – he allegedly blew £150,000 on cocaine over a three-year period which ultimately saw him checking into the Priory. It was a dark day for the band’s legion of fans when they announced their split in 2006.
“I couldn’t be around The Darkness because of all the drinking and everything,” he said. “It wouldn’t have been good for my recovery. I didn’t want to stop making music but I wanted to stop killing myself.”
The brothers both went their different ways and pursued their own projects.
Now sober for almost 18 years, Justin can see clearly why it all went so wrong, admitting, “we weren’t equipped for all this.”
“We came from normal working-class families that weren’t musical at all. But we were also brought up to never say no to any
opportunity.”
In 2011 The Darkness reunited to the delight of their loyal fan base. Their music, a perfect blend of glam and classic rock peppered with catchy guitar hooks, extended solos, and absurd lyrics, had a renewed spark. And their performances as spectacular as ever.
Over the years Justin has kept busy with various projects, from solo music to an acclaimed podcast about rock and roll. But for his many local fans, the most exciting news is his return to the Suffolk stage. The band will be performing in The Darkness 2025 - Dreams On Toast tour, with two sold out shows at Ipswich’s Regent Theatre in March. Their set promises to be a celebration of their legacy, with plenty of crowd-pleasers alongside new material.
For Justin, playing in his home county is always special. “There’s something magical about coming back to your roots,” he added.
“There’s a real sense of home, even when we’re playing these big shows.”
l For tickets and details about the wider UK tour, visit, thedarknesslive.com
Justin delivers a high energy performance
© OPA Images Limited
/ Alamy Stock Photo
© Simon Emmet
From Suffolk with loveThe Darkness
Justin wowed the crowds at Latitude 2024
© Angela Hagan
WHERE NATURE MEETS STYLE!
Honey + Harvey in Melton will soon benefit from this lush new CRATE installation to green up their outside space ...
Sometimes an idea comes along which has all the hallmarks of a smash hit.
Suffolk born and bred, CRATE, is the beacon of innovation currently turning heads across the urban landscaping community.
Under the vision of founder, Alex Hodges, CRATE offers portable urban landscaping with these customisable installations featuring semi-mature English-grown trees and shrubs.
Coffee supremos, H+H will soon undergo the dramatic transformation at the back of their burgeoning empire in Melton, Woodbridge. And businesses are already flocking to sign up to advertise their brands in this unique collaboration.
mature trees and shrubs.
“We like to think CRATE is where nature meets style,” says Alex. “And for those advertising, they will be reaching a diverse audience in this natural and engaging setting.” In fact, every week around 1500 people visit the newly expanded H+H in Melton, which offers Butterworth coffees and loose-leaf teas, breakfasts and lazy lunches.
Alex says, “These installations instantly enhance outdoor (and indoor) spaces, providing shade, beauty, and a welcoming atmosphere. Advertisers will benefit from giving their brand maximum visibility, ensuring their brand stands out in a stylish and sustainable way.”
Sustainability is at the heart of all CRATE stands for.
“We manufacture them out of pallets destined for burning” says Alex.
CRATE reforms these materials into beautiful, sustainable installations showcasing
Operations Manager at H+H, Shannon Hammond, says, “This will bring nature to our outside space which perfectly complements the sustainable ethos at Riduna Park.”
These displays bring welcome shade, privacy, a vastly improved air quality, a boost in urban biodiversity as well as a welcome increase in carbon capture.
CRATE also plays a role in urban water management, capturing water to feed the plants and trees, reducing the risk of flooding and water pollution.
Alex, a landscaper by trade, says he first had the idea for the installations, which work just as well in domestic settings, whilst working on a project in his own garden.
Soon the company had unveiled its first installation at the Suffolk Show, where they greened up the members’ bar areas and marquees to the delight of the crowds.
Straight away an offshoot to the business
began to emerge.
“People started asking if they could sponsor the installations,” he says, “they wanted their companies’ names attached to something so meaningful. Like all good ideas, it grew from there.”
From new housing developments, festivals or one-off events to intimate outdoor spaces or lively cafes, pubs, offices or domestic gardens, town centre squares and company HQs, these magical mobile arboreal sanctuaries will green up any setting.
“I’d love to see them in city centres, waterfronts, everywhere,” Alex adds. “This is just the beginning.”
l Spaces are limited so if you want to get involved in this exciting project which will be the talk of the town, do get in touch. Email, info@crateltd.co.uk or visit, crateltd.co.uk
WANT TO JOIN US?
Advertisers already signed up to put their brands or logos on this magnificent CRATE installation at H&H in Melton, include:
l Resolve Fitness
l IP Lettings
l Butterworth & Son
l Summer Isle Studios
l Professional Mindset Coaching
l Kin Knives
L-R: Aaron Skerritt and Shannon Hammond from H+H with Alex Hodges from CRATE
INTERIOR LIVES ...
BOB’S YOUR UNCLE
We love this Pappelina BOB Large Rug from Scandi treasure trove, Vanil based in Woodbridge. Sized at 140x180cm in brick/cream colours, we love how BOB goes beyond aesthetics, prioritising quality and comfort. With its plush texture and softness underfoot, these rugs create a welcoming ambiance, inviting you to indulge in its luxurious embrace. Non-absorbent and hygenic, it does not hold dust, making it ideal for people with allergies. l £359 from Vanil, Woodbridge. Visit, vanil.co.uk
OUT OF THIS WORLD
This dramatic piece of work by Hungarian artist Beata Orosz has to be seen to be truly experienced. Currently on display at the W Gallery in Woodbridge, this mesmerising oil on canvas (100cm x 100cm), called Eclipse, has impressed many visitors.
Gallery owner Stephen Watkins tells us that one impressed customer recently gazed at it in silence for a good 20 minutes, before saying, ‘wow, just ... wow!’
This would have a hugely dramatic impact on any room, as illustrated, l £6950 from The W Gallery, Thoroughfare, Woodbridge. Visit, thewgallery.co.uk
HELLO WILLOW
How gorgeous is this Willow ‘Flower’ Pendant Lampshop from The Merchant’s Table? Jo Hammond has used her willow weaving expertise to create these beautiful and unique pendants. This design is based on a simple floral petal formation. Making a sculptural statement in any setting, these bring a warmth and emit a play with light through the open loop ‘petals’. All woven with Somerset and Suffolk willow.
A native to East Anglia, Jo is one of the county’s best willow workers. Now living close to the Stour Estuary, her degree in fine art shows itself in her feel for simple rhythmic designs. l £96 from themerchantstable.co.uk
IN SEARCH OF LOST GLITTER
Suffolk mum-of-two Sarah Nicholson lost her beloved husband just before Christmas in 2010. Using excerpts from her new book, here she reflects on how the tragedy spurred her on to find her salvation in writing ...
Ihave fond memories of childhood Christmases. Like most families, we developed our own traditions. Christmas stockings were opened first thing in the morning whilst still in our pyjamas, but everything under the tree had to wait until mum had got the dinner in the oven and we could all sit down together.
When I got married, I had to merge my expectations with Andrew’s. Only he didn’t bring any traditions with him and never understood why I wanted things done in a particular way.
He worked offshore on an oil rig, as many people did in Teesside where we lived, which meant he often worked away either
Christmas or New Year. I never minded those long drives down the A1 to spend those years with my parents in Suffolk, where everyone was familiar with the routine. Our two boys enjoyed seeing Grandma and Grandad too.
Andrew had two memorable Christmases at home when the boys were born, both have December birthdays (bad planning) and Andrew had paternity leave.
CHRISTMAS BABY NUMBER ONE
Ifindthephotoofyouasanewdadlooking terrifiedbyresponsibilityasIsupposeallnew dadsdo.I’mtwenty-eightbutlookbarely eighteen,Madonna-like,withflowingauburn hair.Oursonwaslateandheavy,maybeIam
stillhighonthegasandairIwasgivenearlier whentheystitchedmeup,whileyousat therecradlingourboy.FromhereIonly rememberthegoodbits,writingChristmas cardswithanextraname,seeingour new-bornblinkingundertwinklingtreelights, youbeinghomefortheholidays.Everything sprinkledwithafestiveglow.
Sometimes Christmas is as magical as you want it to be but, the one we had in 2010 was nothing like we planned.
Andrew died unexpectedly of a heart attack in November 2010. It was two weeks before his forty-ninth birthday and exactly six weeks before Christmas day.
Our boys were only ten and thirteen. I remember a deep theological question posed by youngest son one evening before bed.
“Is Dad really in Heaven and is Father Christmas real?”
Kids have a way of making you face up to the stark realities; I hope so and no he’s not, were my honest answers.
If we believe all the hype, everyone looks forward to Christmas. A time to be with your loved ones and create happy memories, like the ones I experienced as a child.
It’s all glitter and tinsel, until its not and we are faced with a new reality. It could be the
“I believe in looking for joy and hope in the darkness, finding the hints of sparkle and glitter. I hope you find some this Christmas.”
Snowed in: their driveway during the fateful Christmas of 2010
empty chair where a loved one used to sit, the Christmas present we’d carefully chosen that gets pushed to the back of the wardrobe or ends up in the charity shop instead of being unwrapped on Christmas morning. Suddenly Andrew was “away,” but never coming back.
To make matters worse, the year Andrew died was the year the entire country ground to a halt due to unprecedented snow fall from late November all the way through most of December.
All the things we took for granted seemed to vanish. Just going to the shops was stressful as everyone was even more on edge than usual.
MAD WOMAN ALERT
Theshoppingwhizzedbytoofast.“CanIhave aminutetopack?”Ipleaded,myvoiceata reasonablelevel,butmyprotestationswent unheededsoIresortedtothrowingitems intomytrolley,eagertobegone.“Uhoh!” commented a male customer under his breath,“Mad woman alert!”That was the final straw,Ispunroundandfacedhim.“Mad womanwho’sjustlostherhusband!”Myvoice was raised, people stopped and stared, but no one offered assistance or asked if I was allright. I pushedmy trolleyoutof the shop and life carried on. It struck me that day
that many people don’t know how to handle other people’s grief. It is an inconvenience that most are too embarrassed to deal with.
We don’t talk about death; it’s hushed up and at Christmas time when everything revolves around the family and is supposed to be jolly, it doesn’t fit the narrative.
FIRST CHRISTMAS
The snow, which had abated in the middle of December,wasback.Thepossibilityof gettingtomyparentstocelebrateChristmas wasnon-existent,Icouldn’tevengetthecar offthedrive.Mywashingmachinewasn’t workingbecausethepipeshadfrozen.A decision was made. I called for a taxi, and we tookonebagofpresentsandoneofwashing tomymother-in-law’s.Wehadsausagesand chipsforChristmasdinner,itwasaSaturday afterall.Whilethewashingmachinewhirred, we opened presents, excessive and lavish maybe,tomakeupforallthatwaslost.
I did my best for the children and to be
honest they got me through the difficult days. It must be so much harder when you have to face a first Christmas on your own, all alone. My children are now grown men who still look forward to us all being together at Christmas. Unsurprisingly, we have grown very close. They now have the long drive down the A1 to visit me. They live up in the North of England, whereas I moved back to Suffolk at the end of 2018.
Even that Christmastime was full of unplanned drama as I had emergency surgery for bowel cancer at the start of December and only got out of hospital on Christmas Eve!
Writing about everything I have been through has really helped me process all the grief and loss in my life. I started a blog two weeks after Andrew died and have been writing ever since. At the start of this year, I finally published my memoir In Search of Lost Glitter. Excerpts from the short stories I’ve included here are from the book. Recently, I won the best non-fiction prize for 2024. I could hardly believe it when I was awarded it (the latest photo of me was taken on the day I received it).
I believe in looking for joy and hope in the darkness, finding the hints of sparkle and glitter. I hope you find some this Christmas.”
l In Search of Lost Glitter was published earlier this year by Resolute Books. It recently scooped the Ink Book Prize for best Non-Fiction book 2024. It is available from some local independent bookshops and online. Kindle and Audio version are available. You can meet Sarah and get a signed copy at the Christmas Fair in St Mary’s Church, Hadleigh, on behalf of the Stand Up for Suffolk Fund on 27th and 28th November. Visit, resolutebooks.co.uk
Andrew and Sarah on their wedding day
Sarah in London where she received her award
RELISH
The foodies’ page ...
THE SUFFOLK DELI
Having set up the highly acclaimed Martha’s Barn at her former home, Otley Hall, Louisa Flavell left to embark on a brand-new venture of her own which is sure to be a huge hit,
The Suffolk Deli in Grundisburgh is already wowing customers locally with its produce and lively café.
“I plan to run it with the community very much in mind,” she tells us over a delicious cup of Butterworth & Son coffee. “I want this to be truly Suffolk, not just the big obvious brands, but also the smaller brands too.”
Louisa (pictured in the middle), says she’s not a fan of mass-produced meals and plans to offer freshly made up ‘grab bags’, delicious home-made meals such as risottos, for customers to heat up at home that evening.
The emphasis is on affordability.
“Our priciest bottle of wine at the moment is from Nethergate Wines of Bury St Edmunds and it’s a tenner,” she says. “People are recognising that this isn’t going to be expensive.”
Everything is hyper locally sourced at this delightful deli, which also stocks fresh bread from Palmers based in Haughley as well being a collection point for delicious sourdoughs from Acre Farm Bakery (of Monewden Hall).
“We have got very local makers - Beth, our baker, lives two doors away and our team are so friendly,” she smiles. “If a customer wants a proper tasting, we are happy to open a packet of something up for them to try. The café at the deli offers freshly made rolls, paninis, soups, sausage rolls and so much more. We are looking at getting some big grab-and-go fridges where people can take home a lovely salad. So many people are working from home, it’s great for them to be able to pop in and get lunch or dinner.”
This Christmas, The Suffolk Deli will be offering fabulous, lovingly hand-picked hampers full of local delicacies. She says these tailor-made hampers will knock spots off the more commercial ones which don’t always appeal to the recipient.
As for mother-of-two Louisa, she’s relishing this brand-new start, with an exciting new year ahead of her. We wish her all the very best.
l Visit The Suffolk Deli, The Street, Grundisburgh, Woodbridge IP13 6TD. Or find them on social media @thesuffolkdeli
PINCH 2.0
After four successful years on the regenerative and organic Maple Farm, owner and head chef at its café, Alice Norman has opened the doors on a new venture - Pinch 2.0. With its lovely indoor and outdoor seating, a new menu and a drinks list for the first time, it offers a relaxed “no fuss, no cutlery approach” featuring Roman-style pizzas, frozen slushies, cocktails, and wine, in addition to its much-loved bakery offering of coffee, crullers, pastries and gelato.
Built around the soil-centric farm in Kelsale where she’s based, locality is at the forefront of everything Alice creates at Pinch, championing the produce of her beloved home county.
She says, “Once we’re settled, I have plans to host evenings on the farm with chef friends from across the UK, something I feel is missing in the area!”
Alice is well known for drawing inspiration from her surroundings and, with each dish she likes to tell the story of Suffolk, championing local suppliers such as local butcher Salter & King, Orford’s beloved Pump St and Bungay’s Fen Farm Dairy, the proud home of Baron Bigod.
l Visit, eatpinch.com
THE SHEDS FRAMLINGHAM
Wonderful reviews have reached our ears about The Sheds Framlingham. Their year-round, monthly Pizza Pop-ups have become legendary alongside their occasional Shed Feasts, bringing you delicious home-cooked food from around the world thanks to acclaimed chef Rich.
“When we are not busy hosting pop-ups, parties, workshops and events, the space is available to hire,” says partner Mollie Grinyer-Power. “Whether it’s for an art class, a therapy space or a book group, it provides a warm comfortable venue for you to hire.”
l Check them out, theshedsframlingham.com
JERUSALEM ARTICHOKE AND CHESTNUT SOUP WITH CHORIZO AND APPLE
This festive soup is featured in Suffolk chef and award-winning author Maria Elia’s fabulous book, Full Of Flavour.
Maria says, “The earthy artichokes and spicy sweet chorizo here complement each other beautifully, deep undertones run through from the chestnuts and caramelized apples add a bit of ‘zing’! A decadent soup for any dinner party.”
SERVES 4
l 50g unsalted butter
l 4 x shallots, thinly sliced
l 2 x garlic cloves, thinly sliced
l 2 tbspn chopped thyme leaves
l 1kg Jerusalem artichokes, peeled, sliced and placed in acidulated water
l 50ml sherry
l 1 x 55g vacuum packed cooked chestnuts
l 1 ltr chicken stock
l ½ x Bramley apple, peeled, cored, cut into 1cm dice
l 10g caster sugar
l 5g butter (for apple)
l Olive oil
l 2 x chorizo for cooking
l 200ml cream, optional
l 2 tbsp chopped flat leaf parsley to serve
1Heat
butter in a large pan, add the shallots and cook over a low heat for ten minutes until softened and slightly caramelized; add the garlic, thyme and artichokes, cook for a further five minutes. Add the sherry, chestnuts and chicken stock and bring to the boil. Reduce to a simmer, season with salt and pepper and cook until artichokes are tender, approx 15-20 minutes.
2Meanwhile, pre-heat a frying pan; toss the apple in the sugar and pour into the pan. The sugar will immediately start to caramelize as it hits the hot pan,
add a pinch of butter and cook for a minute over high heat till golden. Set aside.
Wipe out the pan with absorbent paper and pre-heat. Slice the chorizo and cook in a hot frying pan with a little olive oil for three minutes.
3Blitz the soup until smooth, return to the pan adding cream if desired, check the seasoning and warm through. Add a little extra stock/water if it’s a little too thick.
4Serve topped with chorizo, drizzle with chorizo oil, scatter with apple and sprinkle with parsley. Serve with crusty bread.
l Find Maria on Insta @mariaelia9
BEAUTIFUL CONNECTIONS!
It’s buzzing in Ipswich’s Norwich Road ... we meet founder of The Hive, CAD TAYLOR, to find out why ...
As is often the case with independent businesses, 27-29 Norwich Road was so much more than just a shop. Serving music lovers in Suffolk for 30 years, the closure of Westend Music came as a mighty blow back in 2022. And it particularly struck a chord with community media producer, Cad Taylor, who covered the
story for BBC Radio Suffolk where she works.
“People kept telling me it was more than a shop, it was more of a social club,” she recalls. “I knew that there was something priceless to save.”
For those who don’t know her, Cad is a whirlwind of energy in the town’s cultural scene - a mover and shaker - who gets stuff done. Thanks also to the tireless support of her colleague Sarah Nkugwa and Cad’s amazing team of directors - Jackie, Monika and Bopper - The Hive was born.
Now a Community Interest Company, The Hive is like a giant hug around this richly
Teamwork: Cad Taylor with Hive’s director of Afghan womens project, Rona Panjsheri
diverse community in this part of the town. It offers an incredible programme of events which has seen friendships formed, careers launched, love has even blossomed ... but more on that later!
Cad says this vital space, having grown organically, is so versatile, “offering learning, genuine fun (not to be underestimated), workshops, art and printing, plus roots and reggae events, maternity workshops, gardening projects, community lunches and a myriad other different activity in any given week.”
As local resident Sri-Lankan born, Oscar Joachim says, “For people who live alone, The Hive provides a ready-made group of friends. There are a lot of people out there who, whether they live alone or in a family group, are still lonely. Here, they would be able to socialise in a friendly non-threatening place where they don’t have to watch everything they say.”
The Norwich Road in Ipswich town centre has, rather unfairly some might say, earned itself a bit of a reputation but The Hive consistently proves there is beauty within and lives up to its name.
A recent photography course, run by Suffolk photographer Gillian Allard, saw local Afghan and Ukranian women coming together to produce some incredible work (pictured right).
Cad’s energy is infectious. She’s forever looking for more pots of funding as well as staging events at this much-needed hub and is always on the go.
“The comedian Omid Djalili has offered us a free comedy gig happening in February which is massive,” she says. “It will be part of our Fundraising February next year. We just want people to know the story about why a safe space and a collection of people is very important in a fractious society.”
Recently, Living In Suffolk dropped in on one of their community lunches, a weekly discussion group with a shared ‘bring what
you can,’ and open to all. Over a delicious lunch, we were struck by how warm and welcoming it was.
As resident and photographer, Oscar Joachim, told us, “Nothing of this would be realised without the energy and positive common-sense Cad brings into the project. She sets the ethos which is taken up by all the participants and attendees at The Hive.”
Last year, during an art show’s private view, Cad met Omid Ziadlou who had moved to Ipswich from Iran. Looking for life, art and like-minded people, he found more than he
ever expected at The Hive. The two fell in love and are now expecting a baby; a symbol of the beautiful connections that happen within these walls. By the time you are reading this their little one may have already arrived, adding another small member to The Hive’s growing family.
We wish them the very best and long may The Hive continue.
lTo make a donation, check out their QR code here. Visit, usethehive.org.uk
WHAT’S ON AT THE HIVE: Mondays: Private workshops
Tuesdays: Free community yoga / Social session / Girls project
Wednesdays: Photo / Cooking projects
Thursdays: Future Female Society Radio workshops / LGBTQ+ Express Yourself project
Fridays: Free Sewing Sessions and Teaching / Romanian English speaking class and support sessions
* The Hive is available to hire.
Local resident and photographer, Oscar Joachim
Sadaf holds up her photo
© David Loney
What’s new in your lively local arts scene? Ellie Rickard has the lowdown …
MIDGE URE - “MY FIRST LOVE”
Having celebrated his 70th birthday with a sold-out show at the Royal Albert Hall in October, Midge continues the celebration of his life in music with a UK tour this November and December.
The tour showcases the sheer breadth and versatility of his extensive catalogue written during the past 50 years; giving old and new fans alike a truly remarkable night of hits and rarely heard gems.
Midge tells LivingInSuffolk , “I performed live long before I was ever allowed anywhere near a recording studio and as much as I love spending time writing and recording, live music remains my first love. This ‘Catalogue’ tour will allow me to not only play a wide selection of hits from my past but perform some of the most requested favourites. Revisiting these moments from my musical life is something I am really looking forward to sharing”.
Midge has enjoyed an unrivalled career earning him Ivor Novello, Grammy and BASCAP awards along with a flotilla of gold and platinum records during the past five decades. His story includes the early teen glam rock of Slik, his foray with The Sex Pistol’s
Glen Matlock for The Rich Kids into the 80’s which saw him secure his place in musical history not just as part of Ultravox and Visage who helped shape the new romantic and electro-pop era, but as producer and co-writer of Band Aid’s Do They Know It’s Christmas which led to Live Aid, the eradefining 1985 global concert.
Midge will be bringing his Catalogue: The Hits Tour to the Ipswich Regent on Wednesday 27th November.
l For tickets, go to ipswichtheatres.co.uk
YOU CAN’T HURT ME
Suffolk-bred author Emma Cook this month sees the release of her debut novel, You Can’t Hurt Me. This slick high concept suspense thriller taps into the universal topic of pain, and female pain at that.
Emma, who grew up in Ipswich and attended Northgate High School, tells us her story centres around the main character, Anna, who is on the brink of losing it all whilst working as a ghostwriter for charismatic neuroscientist Nate Reid. His work at the mysterious Pain Laboratory could transform millions of lives but his research is overshadowed by rumours surrounding the death of his wife Eva. As Anna writes Nate’s story, she finds herself obsessed with Eva, a former patient of Nate’s who was unable to experience pain though found joy in inflicting it. As she strips away the secrets of their toxic marriage she makes a shocking
CHRISTMAS SPECIAL WITH LAURA WRIGHT
A very merry evening of celebratory Christmas classics with a sparkling Suffolk line-up comes to the Concert Hall at Snape Maltings on Saturday 14th December.
Featuring star soprano Laura Wright alongside the Britten Pears Chamber Choir and The Band of the Royal British Legion, Leiston, tickets are on sale now.
l Visit, brittenpearsarts.org
THE DREAM JOB ...
Felixstowe author Jeanette Hewitt has just published her tenth novel. The Dream Job explores the lives of two very different women, and what happens when their worlds collide.
Jeanette, who writes under the name JM Hewitt, says, “To be a published author has been my dream since I was ten years-old, and I can’t imagine pursuing any other career.”
l Visit, jmhewitt.net
discovery.
Emma, who is assistant editor and travel editor on the Observer magazine, says she was first inspired to write the novel by two stories which captured her imagination.
“The first, a story about a woman called Jo Cameron who became something of a news sensation after doctors discovered her rare genetic mutation that meant she was incapable of feeling pain,” she says. “And the second, a New Yorker profile about an eminent neuroscientist known as the Queen of Pain with a special lab in Oxford where she tested and measured pain in her respondents, much like the ones my narrator Anna reluctantly endures when she interviews Dr Reid.”
Like all great ideas, the film and TV industry are now circling around Emma’s book with the potential of obtaining the screen rights. Watch this space!
l You Can’t Hurt Me is published by Orion Fiction on 7th November and is available in hardback, e-book and audio.
THE GEORGE HARRISON PROJECT
Back at the Quay in Sudbury after last year’s sell out, the ultimate tribute to George Harrison. Immerse yourself in an evening of countless hits from The Beatles, his solo career, and The Traveling Wilburys. Songs include My Sweet Lord, Here Comes The Sun, While My Guitar Gently Weeps, Got My Mind Set On You, Handle With Care and more!
l For tickets for the event, on Thursday 28th November, visit, quaysudbury.com Or call, 01787 374745.
THE SNOWMAN™ AND THE SNOWDOG
This delightful exhibition at Suffolk Archives at The Hold in Ipswich is a visual treat for all ages. It features over 40 original illustrations from the film, along with behind-the-scenes drawings and preparatory sketches. These unique pieces, based on characters created by Raymond Briggs, offer a fascinating insight into the creative processes involved in bringing The Snowman™ back to life for a new generation of viewers. Under 4s go free. Running until Saturday 18th January 2025, it’s a must this season.
l Book now at suffolkarchives.co.uk
THE WOODBRIDGE VETS –BIGGER (AND BETTER!)
The Woodbridge Vets is increasing the size of their popular premises in Melton’s Riduna Park. This modern practice, founded on good oldfashioned ideals, already offer one of the most well-equipped practices in Suffolk. With their comprehensive resources they can conduct advanced investigations and complex procedures on-site. And soon they will offer even more, as work is almost finished on a contemporary extension featuring two more spacious consult rooms and an extra run of full height kennels complete with LED colour lighting to aid recovery.
Veterinary surgeon and practice co-owner, Kyle Eadie, recently showed us around the new extension.
He says, “There will also be five full height metal kennels with glass fronts which are ideal for big dogs. Plus, an additional theatre with its own fresh air supply, air conditioning and a ventilator – we are one of the few practices in Suffolk to have a ventilator. Earlier in the year we took on another vet which means we now have five vets and eight nurses on the team.”
It means this leading practice is now one of the biggest independent practices in the region.
What sets The Woodbridge Vets apart is a distinctly personal touch. They allow enough
time to build relationships with each client - an investment which fewer and fewer practices seem to offer nowadays.
“The truth is,” says Kyle, “a ten-minute consultation isn’t long enough to form a genuine connection or properly discuss an owner’s concerns. It’s barely enough time for a clinical examination.”
Here, vets are individually assigned and they take a personal responsibility to get to know everything about their clients and their pets.
The Woodbridge Vets are now taking registrations from new pet owners.
“And we would like to wish all our customers, old and new, a very Happy Christmas and New Year!” adds Kyle.
l The Woodbridge Vets, 19 Riduna Park, Melton, IP12 1QT. Visit, thewoodbridgevets.com To register call, 01394 802803. Or email, info@thewoodbridgevets.com
A PAWSOME MIRACLE!
This Christmas one Suffolk resident will be raising a glass to great friends and missed loved ones and reflecting on a turning point in her life ...
Last year Jo Shulver had been left emotionally wrung out after losing her mother to her short battle with cancer.
“It really affected my mental health,” recalls Jo, who worked as an estate agent for 30 years. “I’d already handed my notice in. I didn’t want to leave the house. I was starting to make excuses as the anxiety worsened. If
friends called, I’d say I couldn’t come out as I had a migraine. I felt so lost and didn’t know what to do.”
It was her dog walker, Debs Lawrence, who noticed Jo was in need of a shoulder to cry on.
“Debs walked my three dogs for me and one day she asked if I was OK - I burst into tears,” she says. “So she suggested we meet for a walk. We went to Sutton Heath and it was so peaceful. We met up with people she knew and it was just lovely passing the time of day with them. I felt so much better as I got back into the car and that’s when I had my epiphany. I realised this was what I wanted to do. So I asked Debs if she would mind if I set up my own dog walking business (I didn’t want to step on her toes). And being the kind and understanding person she is, she gave me her blessing - I see her on walks now!”
Jo’s new business, Pawsome Adventures, was born!
She now has a diploma in dog walking, a certificate in dog first aid and is studying dog psychology. As a single mum she says she has more precious time to spend with her son Billy, feels much fitter and loves her working days.
“I have everything to jump out of bed for because I have wonderful four-legged friends who are so excited to see me. Once you get out walking it really helps you to forget your worries. All my dogs are so special, I love my job!”
She was starting to feel like things were getting back on track when tragedy struck again.
Phone fraudsters targeted Jo, posing as
someone from her bank.
“It was two days before I was due to spread my mother’s ashes, so my head was all over the place,” she says. “I was driving up to Yorkshire in awful weather when I got the call. He sounded lovely and was very helpful. He was so convincing and knew a lot of my personal details, like my address. You hear of these things happening, but it all felt so genuine.
The fraudster said someone was making payments from Jo’s account which she didn’t recognise. To ‘protect’ her he moved her precious savings into a ‘safe account,’ and when she phoned her bank later she realised, to her horror, that she had been the victim of fraud and had lost thousands of pounds. “The
“I believe it was my mum looking down on me”
bank would only refund 50% of the money,” she says.
But Jo was soon to receive a bolt out of the blue - news from The People’s Postcode Lottery telling her she’d won.
“I believe that was my mum looking down on me,” she says. “I’ve often thought it, but this was just such too much of a coincidence. I’ve booked a holiday – the first in six years – with my little boy and I’m going to raise a drink to mum and to good friends. I’m in such a good place now, I’m just a very chilled bunny,” she smiles.
l Jo, who is DBS checked and insured, offers dog walking services in and around the Woodbridge area.
Email her on, jo.shulver@outlook.com
BITESIZE BULLETIN...
Tales from the county ...
CHRISTMAS PAMPER!
Ipswich’s Riverhills Health Club and Day Spa is hosting a Christmas event filled with festive cheer.
On Wednesday 13th November it will open its doors to a shopping, pampering and foodie extravaganza. Entry is free, but spaces must be booked in advance. Highlights include a complementary 15-minute treatment.
Riverhills’ very own talented chef will be serving up festive ‘Santa baps,’ a seasonal twist on the classic Christmas sandwich. There will be festive shopping stalls offering unique and special gifts from local businesses plus a charity raffle. l Book now on, 01473 463262. Email, beauty@riverhills.co.uk or visit, riverhills.co.uk
TRANSFORM YOUR FITNESS WITH REFORMER PILATES AT STUDIOFLEX
Fitness enthusiasts across Suffolk are discovering Reformer Pilates at StudioFlex, a local boutique fitness club where expert instructors provide guidance every step of the way. Small, intimate classes ensure every class member gets the most out of each session as well as creating an opportunity to connect with other like-minded people. Reformer Pilates offers a sustainable, low-impact workout suited to all fitness levels and is a great option, whether aiming to build strength, improve flexibility or enhance posture. In addition to Reformer Pilates, StudioFlex offers cardio, yoga, and strength classes, as well as sporting a gym where members can book personal workouts. Visit StudioFlex to experience unique, luxury classes that will transform your workout experience. l Head to studioflex.co.uk or call 01473 708919. StudioFlex, Three Rivers Business Centre, Felixstowe Road, Ipswich IP100BF.
AND BREATHE ...
Suffolk Oxygen Therapy Centre offers hope to those living with Multiple Sclerosis and other chronic conditions ...
Nestled in the heart of the county, the Suffolk Oxygen Therapy Centre is a sanctuary for many living with chronic conditions such as Multiple Sclerosis (MS). With its welcoming atmosphere and dedicated staff, the centre is just one of a handful in the country which offers an unique therapeutic approach.
The therapy delivers 98% oxygen using pressure to drive more oxygen molecules into the tissues. It is a painless, noninvasive, systemic and specialised method of effectively enhancing the body’s natural healing ability. When you breathe pure oxygen in a pressurised hyperbaric chamber it allows your lungs to gather more than normally possible.
Centre Manager, Mark Suddes, explains, “There are times when the body is under stress and requires additional oxygen. Injury or illness may reduce blood flow, so the supply could be reduced, thereby limiting or preventing recovery. Without appropriate oxygen levels, the body’s natural healing process cannot function properly.”
Mark says that breathing high levels of oxygen under barometric conditions dissolves more oxygen in the body’s fluids so it can reach areas where the circulation is diminished or blocked, thereby improving recovery.
“A course of 20, one hour sessions has been shown to increase the stem cells in the circulation up to eight-fold,” he says. “It will also keep infection under control as oxygen
“It was like a fog had lifted” MS sufferer
is used by white cells to destroy microbes.”
For those suffering from MS, which affects the central nervous system, the centre has been a beacon of hope.
Louise Moxon, chair of the trustees at the centre, was herself diagnosed with MS at the age of 24.
“I felt lost and overwhelmed,” she says. “The fatigue and brain fog were crippling, and it felt like my life was slipping away from me.”
Determined not to succumb to her diagnosis, Louise says the oxygen sessions have drastically improved her quality of life. “It’s been a game changer for me. It’s not just about physical improvement; it’s about reclaiming a sense of control over my life. It gave me hope when I desperately needed it.”
The therapy at the centre involves patients breathing pure oxygen through masks as they sit in comfy armchairs in pressurised chambers. Oxygen is not only known for reducing inflammation, promoting healing and boosting well-being – it has the added bonus of giving users a youthful glow!
It’s no wonder that Louise and other members who regularly undergo sessions look so well! Many patients report enhanced energy levels, improved mobility and even mental clarity following their sessions. For
Louise, the impact was profound: “After just a few treatments, I noticed a significant difference,” she says. “I had more energy and I could think more clearly. It was like a fog had lifted.”
Under the guidance of centre manager, Mark Suddes, and his highly experienced team, it has helped many people with all sorts of conditions including long covid, dementia, cancer and physical injuries. It’s not unusual to find yourself sitting with an Ipswich Town footballer or a top athlete looking to speed up recovery of a sporting injury.
Mark says the centre will be open over the festive period – if you check out the website for festive opening hours.
“And we would just like to wish you all a very Happy Christmas and a fantastic 2025,” he adds.
l Suffolk Oxygen Therapy Centre, Unit 27 Claydon Business Park, Gipping Road, Great Blakenham, IP6 0NL Call, 01473 830359. Visit, suffolkoxygentherapy.co.uk
Happy Christmas
FROM THE NATURAL HEALTH CENTRE!
Now in its 25th year, the Natural Health Centre in Woodbridge is looking forward to welcoming clients old and new in 2025 ...
This little haven of tranquility in the centre of Woodbridge is home to some of the finest practitioners. They offer a
comprehensive range of therapies which may lead to radically improved physical and mental wellbeing.
Owner Lesley Terry says, “We are proud to play a part in the journey towards a healthier and happier future. We would like to wish all our lovely clients a very Happy Christmas and a healthy and peaceful New Year.”
Gift vouchers are available and would make the perfect present this Christmas!
THERAPIES AVAILABLE:
l Acupuncture and herbal medicine
l Allergy therapy
l Bowen Technique
l Foot health care practitioner
l Chiropractic (McTimoney, cranial sacral, torque release technique)
l Clinical psychology and CBT
l Counselling, psychotherapy and hypnotherapy
l Indian Head Massage
l Kansa Vatki
l Life coach
l Chronic fatigue syndrome treatment
l Energy therapies
l Massage therapy and holistic bodywork
l Osteopathy
l Naturopathy
l Physiotherapy
l Reflexology
l Women’s health and wellbeing
l Yoga one-to-one
Times of therapist appointments are negotiable and not subject to reception opening times.
l The Natural Health Centre, 24A The Thoroughfare, Woodbridge, IP12 1AQ. Call, 01394 380580. Email, info@nhcwoodbridge.co.uk. Visit, nhcwoodbridge.co.uk
HARTWELL HOUSE: LIVING HISTORY
Now owned by the National Trust and filled with antique treasures, Hartwell House in Buckinghamshire is the perfect historic getaway this winter.
Once the ancestral seat of some of England’s most illustrious families, it has been home to an exiled French king and a Chancellor of the Exchequer. As you wander the grounds of the Grade I-listed historic house, with its avenues of trees, croquet lawn and church, it’s easy to imagine constitutional documents being signed here, witnessing key moments in history. Presidents have stayed here as well as under-the-radar stars.
But Hartwell also offers every contemporary comfort to guests. Restored by Historic House Hotels, it features 48 superbly appointed bedrooms and suites, award-winning dining, a spa with state-of-the art treatments and 94 acres of gardens and parkland. No wonder it has been awarded 4 Red Stars: The AA’s supreme accolade for hotels.
l Check it out at, www.hartwell-house.com
Dear Santa, this Christmas I would like ...
“Big, blue shiny skies! A place far from the madding crowds to savour the simple joys of life with friends and family. Were it not for the time of year, our beautiful county would fit this bill. But with the onset of our northern winter, I dream of hitching a ride with loved ones on Santa’s sleigh southwards to a desert camp in Namibia.
An escape into the vast plains, mountains and dunes of the NamibRand to disconnect from the frenetic digital world. We would explore the sublime landscapes on scenic walks and drives, soak up the sun from a deliciously refreshing pool, raise a glass to the magnificent sunset, and dine under immense starry skies. If we are lucky and are on Santa’s Nice List, we would cast ourselves up and away on a balloon ride over the apricot-coloured sands, marvelling at the mysterious fairy circles ... creating special memories for years to come. December is summer in Namibia, filled with sunshine galore and blissfully warm. What’s more, being a mostly dry country there is very little
rainfall ... if a brief shower does fall, magical rainbows appear in the dunes!”
Love from, Sarah Glyde, independent travel expert at Travel Counsellors.
l To discuss your Christmas wish list call Sarah on, 01394 480006 or email, sarah.glyde@travelcounsellors.com
WALK RIGHT BACK - THE EVERLY BROTHERS STORY
Tuesday 12th November –
The Apex, Bury-St-Edmunds Immerse yourself in a wave of pure rock and roll nostalgia in this rocking tale of two Kentucky boys who created unparalleled vocal magic. From their roots in Kentucky to their glorious reunion at London’s Royal Albert Hall, it boasts signature guitar riffs and those unforgettable harmonies.
With hits like ‘Bye Bye Love’, ‘Wake Up Little Susie’ and ‘All I Have To Do Is Dream’, each rendition is performed with infectious energy and captures the heartfelt essence of The Everly Brothers.
l Book now at, theapex.co.uk
OUT
Top things to do around Suffolk this spring … AND ABOUT!
CHRISTMAS TREE FESTIVAL CHRISTCHURCH MANSION
Tuesday 26th November - Sunday 5th
January 2025
Christchurch Mansion will be filled with beautifully decorated trees to celebrate some of the wonderful communities in Ipswich. Each community group has worked together to create decorations for the Christmas trees.
This event is suitable for all ages. The trees will be located on both the ground floor and the first floor, which requires access via stairs. This is a fabulously free event.
l Christchurch Mansion, Soane Street, Ipswich, IP4 2BE. Visit, ipswich.cimuseums.org.uk
HALESWORTH CHRISTMAS FAIR
Saturday 7th December
Did we hear someone say free mince pies? Halesworth Town Council will be offering these festive delights to visitors at the Halesworth Christmas Market held at the Marketplace. The event promises a glittering array of festive goodies including wreaths, candles, skincare, cards, jewellery and much more. There will also be mulled wine, drinks and a slice of Christmas pizza! Children can post their letters to Father Christmas - all under-12s will receive a certificate.
l The fair takes place from 2-6pm.
FATHER BROWN AND THE CURSE OF THE XMAS FAIRY
Touring East Anglia from 11th December to 19th January
FATHER CHRISTMAS SAILS INTO SNAPE QUAY
Saturday 14th December at 12 noon
What a spectacular sight – no matter what your age! This is a firm favourite in the Britten Pears Arts Christmas calendar, join them as they greet Father Christmas as he sails around the narrows of the winding River Alde and disembarks at Snape Maltings Quay. Free to all and no booking required. Why not enjoy a festive afternoon tea at the wonderful River View Café & Bar on Saturday 14th and Sunday 15th December at Snape Maltings? This needs to be booked. l Visit, brittenpearsarts.org
The Suffolk village of Dangleford is hanging by a thread! As Xmas approaches, its veneer of civility is cracking, like last year’s Yule Log. A series of poison pen letters, signed “The Christmas Fairy”, threaten to expose corruption at the heart of village life. As the mulled wine simmers, old grudges reach boiling point. Even Father Brown’s renowned frosted plums may fail to get the party going! He must use all his wits to stop the midwinter madness snow-balling into … a snowball of terror!
Common Ground present another of their much-loved festive comedy mysteries.
A multi tour date includes the John Peel Centre in Stowmarket, Hadleigh Old School, Aldeburgh Jubilee Hall, Diss Corn Hall, Seckford Theatre Woodbridge and more.
l Visit, commongroundtc.co.uk
