LIVING IN
SUFFOLK
GET INVOLVED …
If you’ve got a topical story, an inspiring home, business or craft to show off or an event you’re planning, do get in touch. The deadline for our next issue - our March/April edition which hits the streets in the first week of March - is 14th February.
l For advertising information or if you’d like to submit any collaboration ideas, or maybe you’d just like to give us a million pounds, don’t be shy ... Email us at, info@livinginsuffolk.com
ON OUR COVER ...
How gorgeous is this stunning painting, Blue Vase, by acclaimed artist Anna Hymas? It’s not only the face of Art For Cure’s forthcoming Spring Exhibition, but also one of many works of art spanning all mediums, available to buy to help raise vital funds for this breast cancer charity.
l To read more about Art For Cure’s event, see pages 16 and 17. For further detail visit, artforcure.org.uk
LIVING IN
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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 … Suffolk 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.
NEWS
All your latest news from around Suffolk ...
AYE UP, CURLY!
Former Coronation Street legend Curly Watts is coming to Suffolk. Actor Kevin Kennedy has joined a riotous new show bringing iconic punk songs to life in Pretty Vacant – The Story of Punk and New Wave. Touring the UK – including the Ipswich Regent in February. Kevin plays the narrator of the show which features music from the Sex Pistols, Siouxsie and The Banshees, The Pretenders and The Clash, to name but a few.
Best known for his role as hapless Curly in Corrie, Kevin is no stranger to bands himself - he was in Paris Valentinos with Johnny Marr and Andy Rourke, who later formed The Smiths.
He tells Living In ... Suffolk, “When punk exploded on the scene in 1977, it truly was a revolution. It changed our music, our fashion and every aspect of the arts! I witnessed it all. Let’s do it again… together.”
The show takes audiences on a nostalgic journey from the beginnings of punk in the 70s, to its later movements in the 80s and 90s.
l Pretty Vacant – The Story of Punk and New Wave, 18th February, Ipswich Regent. For tickets visit, ipswichtheatres.co.uk
DREAMS CAN COME TRUE
Suffolk charity Jetty Lane are jumping for joy after plans for a spectacular new youth hub and nursery were approved by East Suffolk Council.
Work will start in the autumn to remove the four temporary buildings and construct the multimillion-pound facility, being created after the charity linked up with national nursery provider Childbase Partnership.
Plans include a much-needed nursery, offices for children’s and young people’s charity Just42, a home for the Vintage Litter Museum and an outdoor playground for early years and neurodivergent children.
Trustee Cordelia Richman, who has campaigned tirelessly for seven years, says, “I have never doubted that we would achieve our aim. Not many people can see the value in working towards a dream, but the people who do share our vision are really special and it’s great working with them.”
Cordelia, pictured below in yellow, says it all started when the late County Councillor, Caroline Page, called the first public meetings in early 2017 to protest the demolition of the former Woodbridge Youth Centre.
“Caroline Rutherford (of Just42) and I, along with (the late) Cllr Kay Yule and others, were at those first meetings,” she says. “I was immediately impressed with their vision and vivacity and believed that rebuilding the centre was a worthwhile project which would bring huge gains to young people here. I felt my skills could be useful and agreed to become involved. I haven’t looked back and have done something towards achieving that goal almost every day since then.”
“We are working towards opening the Youth Hub in September 2026. Jetty Lane will be fundraising for the Fit-Out of the Youth Hub and for the Playscape, so please go to our website to make a donation,” she adds. l Visit, jettylane.org
ON THE MARKET
The latest homes and property news from around Suffolk ...
THE CHESNUTS
Set within the parkland grounds of the magnificent Broke Hall, on the banks of the River Orwell, The Chesnuts overlooks delightful walled gardens.
Featuring 2,962sq ft of light, well presented accommodation, this superb property features five first-floor bedrooms, a double garage, a two-box stable range and parking courtyard. In all it offers 1.1acres.
Set within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Broke Hall Park overlooks the Orwell with sweeping views across the river to Pin Mill.
The Hall itself is a magnificent red brick Grade II listed Georgian mansion situated at the end of a third of a mile-long lime tree avenue and is surrounded by a Repton designed deer park. Today it is sub-divided into apartments and flats, and the former estate buildings converted to a select number of residences. Broke Hall Park is administered by a resident’s association with
THORNBOROUGH PARK
We love this exclusive development of properties built to a high standard and bursting with expert craftsmanship and green credentials.
Located in the sought after village of Ufford, just three miles from Woodbridge, Thornborough Park is made up of seven single storey net carbon zero homes, each enjoying views in an elevated parkland setting.
Designed by a RIBA award-winning architect, the building spec of these elegant three and four bed homes includes solar panels, triple-glazed windows, air source heat pumps and private parking.
Interiors feature bespoke oak joinery, Italian floor tiles in concrete finish and handmade contemporary kitchens made by local joinery.
l Contact max@woodcockandson.co.uk Or call, 07590 061133.
a modest annual charge for parkland and driveway maintenance.
Included in the sale are shares in the jointly owned 16-acre shore field meadow situated between the park and the foreshore from where there are uninterrupted river views across to Pin Mill.
Guide Price: £1,250,000
l On the market with Jackson-Stops Ipswich, Call 01473 218218. Visit, Jackson-stops.co.uk
Built by Nest Development, Home Builder of The Year 2024 East Anglia, Thornborough Park is on the market with Woodcock & Son.
BREAKING BREAD
Third
generation baker, writer
and workshop teacher at Pump Street, David Wright, on earning a crust ...
TELL US ABOUT YOUR NEW BOOK ...
Breaking Bread is a book about how baking has shaped our world, how a 6000-year-old foodstuff has migrated across borders and through cultures. I ask whether this ancient food has a place in our globalised, ultraprocessed marketplace or if it has lost its roots forever. Ultimately, I’m trying to work out if bread is still good for us, whether it has a future and what that might look like. I also deal with my own experiences as a baker and I lift the lid on the nocturnal world that is a mystery for many but has defined me from birth.
YOU HAVE A TOUR PLANNED?
I’m going to travel 2,000 miles around the UK in a week to promote the book, mainly in bakeries but bookshops too. Everywhere from Suffolk to the north coast of Scotland, Manchester, Cornwall and London. I’ll be documenting the trip on my Instagram (@ thebreaducator) if you’d like to follow along. I’ll be visiting some of the people who have contributed to the book too, like Wing Mon Cheung from Cereal Bakery and regenerative farmer Tim Williams in Dorset.
HOW DID IT ALL START?
My paternal grandparents moved to Suffolk from Northumberland after the Second World War and set up their bakery in Woodbridge.
Our family ran it for 75 years, with many stories from that time featuring in the book. Until they decided to get into baking, they had mostly been employed in the coal mining industry. Grandad swapped one kind of darkness for another. In 1946 when he made the move, Woodbridge had seven bakeries, none of those originals are open now. We’ve lost a lot of our culinary heritage in Britain and I wanted to explore this further to find out what we were losing apart from delicious bread and buns.
IF NOT BAKING, WHAT WOULD YOU HAVE DONE?
I always dreamt of being a theatre director, so I’d have loved to pursue that as a career. I got to work at some of London’s best venues before being diverted back into baking, places like The National Theatre, The Globe and The Old Vic. In the book, baker and writer Dan Lepard, equates artisanal baking with acting on the stage - a comparison I was obviously delighted with. Who knows? Maybe I’ll get back into making theatre one day.
WHAT IS THE MOST SPECTACULAR THING YOU’VE EVER BAKED?
During lockdown I had an acting part in Sky TV’s The Third Day: Autumn, created by Punchdrunk and Dennis Kelly. We were sequestered on a tiny Essex isle with Jude Law
and Florence Welch (of ‘The Machine’ fame), I played an occult baker and had to bake sourdough loaves in cast iron pots over small fires. I had to bake small symbolic trinkets into the bread, the loaves themselves were quite simple but the whole atmosphere was magical. It was a 12-hour continuous, one-shot film during the pandemic ... it still feels very surreal, like a half-remembered dream.
AND THE MOST DISASTROUS?
When William and Kate got married, I had to make a cake for a party at the V&A Museum with Lily Vanilli (the UK’s premier cake-making company). They insisted we set up the day before - all five tiers of it - needless to say it got knocked over by one of the night staff! We had five hours to rebuild a cake that had taken over two weeks to make, we were still finishing it as the party started. I think the guests thought it was some kind of experiential cake event.
TELL US ABOUT THE ‘PUMP STREET WORKSHOP’?
When writing the book, I was Head Baker at Pump Street Bakery in Orford, but since October 2024 I have been coordinating the new Pump Street Workshop where we deliver a range of baking and chocolate making experiences. I’ve always enjoyed teaching and to have somewhere so beautiful to share all the knowledge I’ve picked up along the way is lovely. I’m especially excited for 2025 as we have some incredible guests coming to teach, such as Dan Lepard, BBC Food Programme presenter Dan Saladino and too many more to mention here.
WHAT ARE YOUR FAVOURITE SUFFOLK EATERIES?
I love Pinch Bakery run by Alice Norman, for coffee and anything sweet she puts on the
counter, made with flour from Maple Farm and milled within meters. I’m always attracted to places like The Ferry Cafe in Old Felixstowe or Sizewell Tea at Sizewell Beach. If money’s no issue, then book me in at The Greyhound in Pettistree or The Suffolk in Aldeburgh. Martha’s Barn Cafe in Otley is also worth a look, especially to find out about its history.
ANY PLANS FOR THE FUTURE?
I’m keen to keep writing, I’ve enjoyed having pieces in magazines like The Sandwich and the American food history publication, Eaten. I loved writing ‘Backyard Baking’ with DJ BBQ and Chris Taylor, so the opportunity to develop more recipes would always be welcome. In summer I’m setting up a bakery in a tent at Camp Bestival in Dorset to teach kids about grain, flour and bread - I believe it’s essential to give children the information we wish we’d had about our food systems when we were young.
TELL US A SECRET?
I’m terrible at making choux pastry. Awful. I’ve had almost no success with it and have avoided it for my entire career - maybe I should start practicing more.
l Breaking Bread by David Wright (Aurum, £18.99) is published on 20th March.
Those lovely people at Pump Street are offering Living In ... Suffolk readers the chance to win a signed copy of David’s new book and Pump Street Bagel Class.
In this three-hour course, held in their brand new purpose-built workshop space, adjacent to the legendary bakery in Orford, you will learn how to make a Pump Street bagel recipe to create bakery-quality bagels at home. David says, “We will demonstrate the mixing stage, shape prepared dough, discover how to prove, boil and bake four bagels and two Bialys. You will then have a
selection of delicious fillings available to make your dream sandwich - including Pinney’s smoked salmon and smoked mackerel, to be devoured immediately for lunch with coffee.
“Bialys are made with bagel dough and have toppings applied before baking - like super-puffy little pizzas.”
To enter, all you have to do is answer the following question.
Where in Suffolk is the Pump Street Bakery based?
Email your answers to: competitions@livinginsuffolk.com
One entry per person. The deadline to apply is 10th February. Winners announced on 11th February.
For full terms and conditions, please visit, livinginsuffolk.com
l For more information on Pump Street Workshop, which includes the forthcoming Understanding Sourdough Class on 8th February and Exploring Craft Chocolate Class on 1st March, visit, pumpstreetchocolate.com COMPETITION:
2025
WITH CAROLINE FOOKS
Interior designer Caroline Fooks has started 2025 doing what she loves besttransforming clients’ spaces into elegant, timeless and comfortable interiors.
One of her
favourite jobs came whilst working on a house with stud office in Newmarket.
Caroline was suddenly told to pack a bag and get on a flight to help with their house in Barbados, which needed urgent assistance to get finished!
“It was on a very quick turn around so from building stage to complete installation was six months,” she recalls. “I was furnishing the entire home completely down to the last teaspoon.”
She arranged for two large containers of hand-picked luxurious furnishings from the UK,
including items from leading Suffolk makers, to be sent out to arrive in time to be delivered and unpacked. “I sourced items locally in Barbados too,” she says. “I always source locally where I can.”
“It’s a huge responsibility, though such a rewarding thing to do. I remember the client phoning me up after they moved in, and said, ‘I’ve got three words to say to you….’ and I was trembling on the other end of the phone, when she said, ‘Wow! Wow! Wow!’ I was so relieved!”
Attention to detail is everything. It’s no surprise Caroline’s clients, which include royalty and household names, speak highly of
her - check out her website for testimonials.
One client, from Suffolk, says, “Caroline has impeccable taste and I quickly learned to trust her judgement ... she made the project feel like a collaboration and I was extremely impressed by her responsiveness, professionalism and reliability.”
Offering a discreet and personal service, Caroline is just as happy to work in a huge stately home as she is in a modest flat.
“My work may be as small as popping over to help find a lovely paint colour for the walls to transforming an entire home. I’m just happy to help.”
l Caroline Fooks Design, The Barn, Dock Lane, Melton, IP12 1PE and Sulivan Enterprise Centre, Sulivan Road, Fulham, London SW6 3DJ. By appointment. Call, 07710 037591. Or visit, carolinefooksdesign.com
Tell us about your new show Namaste.
Well, I’ve always tried to be nice about people but this time I can’t. The world is in such a terrible state. At the end of the day the whole purpose of comedy is not just making people laugh. That’s not the end game. When you talk about the means to an end, the means is comedy but the end is to actually make sense of what’s going on. And because I’m from the Middle East, I feel I do have some answers. People come to me as some kind of bridge, like a cultural stopgap, as someone to spread light on things. People don’t get what’s going on. They don’t get the connection between Iran and what’s going on in Gaza, they don’t get what’s going on with Joe Biden attacking Syria and Iraq. It’s me trying to use comedy to make it more palatable for a British audience to understand what’s going on. So I’ve put my hat in the ring.
&MOVERS SHAKERS
Halfway through his world tour comedian Omid Djalili, who lives in Ipswich, talks about being cancelled and feeling the rage ...
just by getting old. In my case, I’m just too old to care.
It’s almost 30 years since your debut. Has your material changed a lot in that time?
Omid Djalili in the 90s is definitely not my cup of tea. I looked a mess. I didn’t know how to dress, wore the wrong colour boots with the suit, I just looked like a fat, mentally ill person but I was at least trying to write recognisably good stand-up. So I try and forgive myself, but I’m much happier with what I’m doing now.
Do the cancel culture warriors need to be on high alert for this tour?
Cancel culture is a real thing. We’re always on the edge of being cancelled. We’re one joke away from having a TV series taken away or being kicked off a film. But I feel I’m old enough not to care anymore. I’ve been watching people like Seann Walsh and Louis CK and I kind of wish that I was cancelled, cos they reach a level in their comedy where they just don’t care. Seann Walsh was this wide-eyed young guy doing Strictly and didn’t realise he was going to be so pilloried in the press. It’s given him a kind of ‘I don’t care anymore’ attitude. It’s a release. Nothing can get worse and you’ve nothing to lose. And that’s when people are at their funniest. So you either do that by getting cancelled or
Is it impossible for your act not to be political?
Yeah, it’s impossible. For someone in my position and from my background, it would be remiss not to. But the trick is you’ve still got to make it funny… Unless it’s funny, I’m not even going to bother. I’ve got reams and reams of notes of things that have outraged me, but if there’s no joke there, then I won’t inflict it on the audience.
You had to cancel a show in Shropshire last year, just after the October 7 attacks, are you worried about any repeats of that?
Who would have thought that calling for a ceasefire and calling for peace would get you cancelled? Some people had written to the
venue saying we’d like to speak to Mr Djalili about his stance on Israel. And they cancelled it, I didn’t ask them to cancel it. I could have handled it but if you feel there’s a security risk then that’s not good. But it doesn’t stop me, it was the venue’s decision. I would never cancel a show.
Are you taking your great mate Boothby Graffoe on the road with you?
Yes I am. I’m very lucky to have someone of his standard as a support act. If he does his A material he’ll blow me off the stage! He’s very kind, he’ll listen to my show in the dressing room and tell me, ‘I only winced six times.’ He’s like my comedy police. He’s got a few new songs and he creates a very nice atmosphere.
l As part of his world tour, Omid will be appearing at The Apex in Bury St Edmunds on 29th and 30th May. For tickets visit, apex.co.uk
ARTWORK OF
Photographer John Ferguson’s popular exhibition now includes female artists and creators who make up Suffolk’s thriving art scene ...
With International Women’s Day soon upon us, photographer John Ferguson has unveiled stunning new portraits celebrating some of Suffolk’s most talented female movers and shakers.
As part of his successful An Eye For Life exhibition, Suffolk Creatives is now open at the Wolsey Art Gallery in Ipswich’s Christchurch Mansion.
Portraits include award-winning multidisciplinary artist, writer and composermusician Dide; artists and painters Georgina
“Suffolk Creatives shines a light on talented women from across our county”
Barclay, Samantha Barnes, Edwina Longe, Sahara Longe and Emma Withers; Juliet Gilkes-Romero, journalist and award-winning writer for stage and screen; artist, sculptor and printmaker Jennifer Hall; Lilly Hammond, illustrator and designer; Alice Hawkins, artist-photographer; a saddle-maker, and the
self-taught taxidermist Hannah Debnam to name but a few.
John says the aim of his ‘Suffolk Creative’ project was to “address the current absence of a singular body of work which celebrates and recognises the diversity, impact and influence of female Suffolk artists.
“I wanted that their portraits to break from tradition, and be dynamic, compelling and vibrant images capturing the diverse and rich essence of each woman and their work.”
They join an outstanding collection of photographs forming a 25-year retrospective of John’s work in this free exhibition. This covers his time working with a host of celebrities, including Oasis, The Spice Girls, The Osbournes, Dolly Parton, Tom Jones and David Bowie. It also looks at John’s favourite personal photo projects, from the Forgotten African-American Cowboys to Ipswich Banger Racers. The Black Suffolk series of 20
Hannah Debnam, taxidermist
Edwina Longe and Sahara Longe
Samantha Pett, saddle maker
Snap happy John
Jennifer Hall, metal sculpturist
photographic portraits creatively explores the concept of home for a diversity of people from the African-Caribbean community who were born in the county or who have made Suffolk their home.
Councillor Carole Jones, Ipswich Borough Council’s Portfolio Holder for Planning and Museums, says, “These images are vibrant and compelling yet approachable and intimate too, telling stories of people’s lives while challenging the viewer and changing perceptions of identity and portraiture. I’m delighted that the addition of the new Suffolk Creatives series of portraits is now also
shining a light on talented women from across our county - from poets and painters to sculptors and saddle makers.”
l ‘In conversation with John Ferguson’ will be held at the Wolsey Art Gallery on Saturday 25th January from 2-3.30pm. This is a chance to meet John and hear about his projects, techniques and inspirations.
An Eye For Life: Photography by John Ferguson, at Christchurch Mansion until Saturday 27th April.
Annie Turner, ceramicist
Dide Siemmond, painter, poet and composer-musician
BITESIZE BULLETIN...
Tales from the county ...
5 THINGS TO DO THIS VALENTINE’S DAY IN SUFFOLK
• The popular 1975 Winebar in Woodbridge is hosting a Valentine’s Day special menu of three lovingly prepared courses including fizz. Available 13th and 14th February. Email, info.1975graze@gmail.com
• The Bildeston Crown is offering a menu packed with Valentines crowd pleasers! Desserts include a dark chocolate fondant, salted popcorn ice cream and Tiramisu to share. 10th – 15th February. Visit, bildestoncrown.com
• Take a romantic walk - either guided or alone with your loved one - to RSPB Minsmere and catch the swans at sunrise to the backdrop of a dreamy dawn chorus. Visit, rspb.org.uk
• Catch a flick and snuggle up over a shared popcorn! King Street Theatre in Ipswich is showing Babygirl starring Nicole Kidman on Valentines Day (until 20th February). Visit, kingstreetcinema.co.uk
• Take a stroll along the prom after a Valentine’s Day belly laugh with Ben Elton in his Authentic Stupidity tour at Felixstowe’s Spa Pavilion. Visit, thelittleboxoffice.com/spapavilion
RESIDENTIAL AND DEMENTIA CARE IN FELIXSTOWE
With stunning sea views, cinema and café, Cotman House Care Home helps residents live life to the full. Offering residential and dementia care, including for shorter respite stays, our skilled team support all residents with bespoke care plans tailored to their needs and wishes. Cotman House runs a number of regular events for the community, including a Dementia Friendly Cinema Club, and a new Stroke Friendship Café with the support of the Stroke Association, providing advice and a chance to make new friends.
l For further information about care or to book a place at any of the events, RSVP to Chantal Sencier on 0808 223 5321.
l Cotman House Care Home, Garfield Road, Felixstowe. Visit, Caringhomes.org/CotmanHouse
HELP! I NEED MORTGAGE ADVICE ...
Stephen Thomas of Homes Mortgage Consultants offers expert advice to LivinginSuffolk readers ...
The property and mortgage market is SUCH a confusing place at the mo - will it improve?
Towards the end of 2024, there was real hope that things were going to pick up. A couple of lenders started to show mortgage rate reductions and positive reactions and there was a feeling that things were looking good for 2025. However, things are slowing down a bit as lenders are being cautious due to the economic situation – some have even put their rates up again - so it’s not quite the clear picture it first looked. Currently things are changing on a daily basis so it’s best to contact me direct for the most up to date forecast. I do believe that once the dust settles, things will improve.
and have decided they just want to get on with their lives and move on. At the end of the day, you must do what makes you happy - life is for living!
There are specialist mortgages which focus on the 55 and over market. Do get in touch to discuss suitability.
What is the difference between buy-to-let and let-to-buy mortgages?
“At the end of the day, you must do what makes you happy – life is for living!”
We want to upsize, is it a good time to sell or should we remortgage and build an extension?
Buying and selling at the moment is the more expensive option with fees and stamp duty, so drawing down some equity and doing your home up would be the cheaper option. We can help you with that and go through all your options. Many of my clients are telling me they’re fed up with waiting for something positive to happen in the financial markets
Thanks to the ‘Bank of Mum and Dad’ our daughter is buying her first home, but I still worry about her taking a hefty mortgage. How would you help? I would source the right mortgage using her circumstances. Then it’s all about the affordability aspect. It’s lovely you giving her the deposit money but the main thing is, can she comfortably afford the mortgage repayments and then afford to live on top? There’s council tax, bills, tax, food, living expenses which all have to be taken into account. On average, mortgage companies will lend about four-and-a-half times your salary, though there are a couple of lenders who can help first time buyers. For example, the Nationwide have a scheme, Helping Hand, where they can potentially offer income mutiples of up to six times the salary, subject to meeting their criteria. So, once we are satisfied that she can afford the monthly repayments, I’m sure we could put together the best deal for her.
We are the wrong side of 55, no longer showing great earnings but would like to draw down some of our equity. Any advice?
Buy-to-let mortgages are for people buying a property specifically with an eye for investment, or they might wish to remortgage an existing property they already let out on a more competitive interest rate. Let-tobuy mortgages are used when someone wants to buy a new property to live in, but chooses to retain their existing property and rent it out. We are here to find the right product for you.
Tell us about the stamp duty changes?
From the 1st of April this year, the stamp duty threshold will drop from £425,000 to £300,000 for first-time buyers. We can help you understand the new bands of stamp duty and how it will affect you.
l Homes Mortgage Consultants, based in Woodbridge, have been presenting clients with an independent, professional, insider’s view of the whole intermediary mortgage market for over 20 years. Our friendly service is delivered with a smile, we are here to help people not baffle or confuse with corporate jargon. For more advice, call Stephen, on 07879 650929 or email, steve@homesmortgages.co.uk. Visit, homesmortgages.co.uk
SPRING INTO ART!
Art For Cure is back - thanks to Belinda Gray MBE and her dedicated team - and it’s better than ever ...
It’s sold more than £3m of art with valuable charitable donations amounting to £1.35m.
Art For Cure is now the number one art event on Suffolk’s cultural calendar. This spring it promises to delight.
Newly discovered artists as well as returning best-sellers feature in its Spring Exhibition held 12-14th April in the stunning contemporary galleries of Ballroom Arts, Aldeburgh. It opens with a ticketed Private
View on Friday 11th April, tickets for which will likely sell fast.
It was set up by Belinda Gray, pictured left, following her personal experience of breast cancer in her forties. She staged the first Art For Cure exhibition in her Suffolk home over a decade ago and raised a staggering £100k over a weekend.
Now, Art For Cure curates art events in unique locations in Suffolk and London, alongside a permanent online collection. This includes paintings, prints, photography, sculpture and ceramics for sale, with up to 50% commission from art sold going directly to this vital breast cancer charity.
Belinda says her charitable work has been, without doubt, one of her greatest achievements, turning “the most challenging time of my life through illness into something positive, which has made a contribution by supporting other women facing a breast cancer diagnosis.”
In this Spring Exhibition, everyday objects are brought to beauty by artists Gill Edwards and Malcolm Doney. Gill, an acclaimed national artist, has a passion for ceramics and explores subtle and innovative colour palettes, finding delight in the silhouettes of everyday objects. Malcolm, a painter living on the Suffolk coast, has a simplicity of ‘Folk Art’ style, exploring the abstract qualities of our day-to-day objects.
“Reflecting on the beauty of East Anglia must be a painter’s dream”
Belinda says, “Spring is truly celebrated with the stunning and colourful floral vases of Anna Hymas, a renowned international artist and devotee to the charity alongside the very talented Norwich art lecturer, Maria Fletcher, who paints so naturally the flowers of the season.”
Anna Hymas’s vibrant artwork graces our front cover of this issue.
Belinda and her team are always on the look-out for new and exciting art.
“A summer visit to Charleston in Sussex, home of the Bloomsbury set, found a young botanical artist Jasmyn Fraser, whose vibrant dahlias and spring flowers could not be resisted!” she says. “Jasmyn has been commissioned to paint a series of her
Gill EdwardsA precarious balance acrylic canvas
Loraine Wilson
favourite flora for the exhibition.”
Belinda says contemporary landscapes can make a great impact in a room.
“Reflecting on the beauty of East Anglia must be a painter’s dream and friends, Susan Debnam and Loraine Wilson, remind us of the sheer, natural beauty of Suffolk in their moving canvases of abstract landscapes and the inlets and waterways enveloping the coast.”
Fine art limited edition photographs have been a great seller at exhibitions and a new collection from Cambirdge-based, Richard
Heeps, featuring his love for landscapes, lifestyle, pop art and rockabilly, will be unveiled for the show.
Ceramics is also a popular part of the Art For Cure exhibitions and there will be new work from Yoxford maker Nancy Main, who creates spectacular, large, organic forms with textured surfaces inspired by nature and the
human journey. Sophie Cook’s porcelain vessels make a unique present. Bright and colourful is her brief and her line up of slim, squat works of art are a delight to view.
As an all-volunteer charity, Art For Cure has broken the mold – join them and enjoy the buzz of the Private View or the daily exhibition. Belinda adds, “there is always a fabulous raffle and artist’s secret canvases and your contribution will really make a difference.”
l Art For Cure Spring Exhibition, 12th14th April. Ballroom Arts, 152A High St, Aldeburgh IP15 5AQ. Visit, artforcure.org.uk
Jasmyn Fraser
Sophie Cooklarge blue pod
Malcolm DoneyColander Acrylic on board
Susan Debnam
“NEW YEAR, NEW ME!”
The Natural Health Centre can help get your mind and body in shape for the year ahead ...
The Natural Health Centre is powering into the new year with a positivity that makes goals attainable and fosters mental and physical wellbeing.
The centre, situated in the midst of the bustling market town of Woodbridge, offers a wide range of therapies to counter both physical and mental challenges. We are here to support you on your journey to optimum health. Make 2025 the year you take control
of your future and change it for the better. All treatments are personalised, confidential and carried out by fully qualified insured practitioners. Call in or contact us via phone or email.
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 coaching
l Chronic fatigue syndrome treatment
l Energy therapies
l Massage therapy and holistic bodywork
l Osteopathy
l Naturopathy
l Physiotherapy
l Reflexology
l Reiki
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
AND BREATHE ...
A round-up of all your local health and wellbeing news in Suffolk ...
REDISCOVER FREEDOM WITH VIRTUE ELECTRIC BIKES
Never ridden an e-bike before? Curious about how they work or which one might suit your needs?
Virtue Electric Bikes in Woodbridge can guide you every step of the way. Owner, Tom Ward, says, “Whether you’re looking to improve your health, get out more, replace a second car or simply enjoy life to the fullest, we’ve got you covered. We can offer expert advice to help you understand how e-bikes work, with personalised recommendations to suit your lifestyle and needs. And the chance to take a test ride – you just need to bring some ID and you’re good to go!”
Tom says e-bikes are a game changer for many reasons. “If you’re recovering from injuries or surgery, the gentle support helps you get moving while protecting your recovery. They can help you manage many ongoing health conditions. You can adjust the assistance to match your energy levels and keep enjoying the outdoors.”
Having an e-bike also means you can avoid those ever-worsening traffic queues and infuriating sudden road closures. “You can glide through the streets with ease and freedom,” he says.
And best of all, they save you money. “You can cut down on the costs of public transport or owning a second car,” he adds. “An e-bike is an investment in both your wallet and the planet.”
l Virtue Electric Bikes, 6A Thoroughfare, Woodbridge. Call, 01394 834485. Visit, virtueelectricbikes.com
NEW YEAR, NEW MINDSET: BUILDING HABITS THAT LAST
The new year is a perfect time to reflect, reset, and rethink how we approach our health and fitness. But let’s be honest - most resolutions don’t last long. Zak Gladwell of Resolve Fitness knows all to well why they’re broken ...
“Because they’re often built on quick fixes and unrealistic expectations,” says Zak, who delivers world class fitness coaching at his popular gym based in Riduna Park, Melton, near Woodbridge.
“Progress doesn’t come from drastic overhauls; it comes from small, consistent actions,” he says. “Whether that’s a ten-minute walk, trying a new workout, or swapping one snack for something a little more nourishing—it all adds up!
“Just focus on what your body can do and aim to build habits that stick. Ditch the “all or nothing” mindset. You don’t need to be perfect. You just need to show up, take it one step at a time, and enjoy the process.
“So, if you’re feeling motivated right now, embrace it. Ride that wave and use it to kickstart habits that will carry you through the year. Remember, fitness is about building yourself up, not breaking yourself down. It’s a chance to grow stronger, move better, and invest in your long-term health.”
“This year, focus on progress, not perfection,” he adds. l Visit, resolvefitness.co.uk
PARK LIFE!
New figures show that Suffolk is back on its feet with almost 3000 people taking part every week in the popular parkrun.
The number of participants has returned to pre-pandemic levels in Suffolk with an average 2,980 people taking part weekly last year.
Parkrun provides free weekly, community events where you can walk, jog, run, volunteer or spectate in a friendly, welcoming atmosphere in parks across the county. Jog on!
l For more details, head to the culture and leisure section of suffolk.gov.uk
What’s new in your lively local arts scene? Angela Hagan has the lowdown ...
BURNT LUNGS AND BITTER SWEETS
published a new novel capturing the current punk revival zeitgeist.
Burnt Lungs and Bitter Sweets is a tragicomedy charting the journey of Sex Pistols fans and their antics spanning four decades.
Virginia says the book is so named as it covers the issue of substance abuse and addiction, “although bitter sweets, as well as referring to drugs, also directly links to the very tragic (and funny) stories of love, friendship and thwarted potential.”
“The protagonist, Hoagie, is a punk Peter Pan,” she says. “He really doesn’t want to grow up and he’s also a bit of an anti-hero in that he does bad things, but also some good things. It’s like he finds it a bit annoying that he has got a heart after all, and it can be his undoing. Things that happened at age 20 affected his journey significantly. There is a lot of strong language but even my mum loved it as it’s in context for these characters.”
Virginia, an actor and teacher who is neurodivergent, says she dug deep to write the book.
“I wouldn’t say it was autobiographical - no, truly I WOULDN’T! (But I’d be unlikely to be still standing
if it were!) However, many characters and events are drawn from life and the weirdest things in the book are possibly the ‘real’ ones. “I’m in there somewhere, of course, like all writers. I sympathised with my anti-hero in a lot of his frustrations. I am a tiny bit too young to have been a punk, but I totally remember it and I loved the music even at a young age. I still play The Sex Pistols, and all the old bands. I loved and still love the energy of punk music and was a huge indie music fan in the 80s and 90s.”
This will be Virginia’s fourth book.
“I first got published in 2022, with a collection of gothic and supernatural stories, The Camera Obscure and I also had two poetry collections published.”
ART TALKS
In this series of eight fascinating lectures, celebrated art historian John-Paul Stonard leads a journey through the history of art, posing vital questions facing art today.
Stonard examines how and why art has survived throughout history and how it will stand up in a future defined by profound environmental changes. How do human images over time show our changing relationship with nature? And where does the impulse to create works of art come from?
The series is a journey through space and time, looking at great masterpieces as well as lesser-known works of art and examining the changing ideas that have shaped their creation and interpretation.
l Lecture one - Tuesday 11th February at 6.30pm. One hour. Tickets cost £12. Lectures run throughout February until early March (25% off multi-buy offer for all ‘Everything Worth Saving’ talks). Britten Studio, Snape Maltings, Snape, Suffolk, IP17 1SP. Visit, brittenpearsarts.org
LUCY PORTER: NO REGRETS
Comedian Lucy Porter is bringing her national tour, No Regrets, to Beccles.
From disastrous dates, professional calamities, ruined friendships to parenting fails, the writer and actress promises to deliver all in graphic detail!
She says the hardest thing about writing is staying focussed on the project in hand as she has so many ideas on the go.
“Also, the ‘muse’ appears at inconvenient hours, “she adds. “I’m very proud of this new book which means I am now on a challenge to write something else as good which I love as much.”
l Burnt Lungs and Bitter Sweets is available to buy from Dial Lane Books in Ipswich and on Amazon.
Lucy, who has appeared on EastEnders, QI and Mock The Week and is a regular on Radio 4’s Just A Minute, promises, “a lot of fun for people who are leaving behind their partying days for caravanning and jigsaws.”
l Lucy Porter: No Regrets 1st February, Public Hall, Smallgate, Beccles. For tickets visit, becclespublichall.co.uk
Ipswich author Virginia Betts has
AFTER LIFE P
Lavenham-based spiritual therapist
Lizzie Falconer on coming to terms with the death of her distinguished father ...
erhaps we should all be prepared for the death of an elderly parent, it’s the natural way of things; especially as my dad had reached the ripe old age of 95. Although I had probably lulled myself into a false sense of security, as he looked (for his age) extremely well. Despite his profound deafness, a lifelong challenge giving him only 10% hearing, and failing eyesight, Dad was still very much ‘all there.’ I was fully expecting the birthday telegram from King Charles!
Dad and my wonderful stepmother Molly lived together in London. I’m enormously fortuntate that she lovingly and tirelessly cared for him until the very end, despite his rather stubborn reluctance at times! She encouraged him to move as much as possible, keep up an active social life and find things to do. She even managed to train him to FaceTime me, maintaining a wonderful line of communication between father and daughter - and for that, I will eternally thank her. He would call me (as he couldn’t hear the ring) and his face would beam into our connection. Despite all his sensory disabilities, we had the best conversations over the final years of his life.
Ronald Bartle, my dad, was the son of vicar George Bartle and his wife Winifred and, along with his sister Joan, lived at The Rectory in Spitalfields, East London. My grandfather presided over the Parish of Spitalfields Church, including during the Blitz - my dad recounted stories of parishioners taking shelter in the crypt while bombs dropped around them.
Despite his somewhat humble beginnings, Dad’s fierce intellect and work ethic secured him a coveted place at Jesus College, Cambridge, studying law. He then became a criminal barrister at the fashionable
© John Ferguson “
Daddy’s girl
chambers of Sir Jeremy Hutchinson and retired as the Deputy Chief Stipendiary Magistrate at Bow Street. He also authored no less than eight books, including his own biography, The Bow St Beak. He was a proud member of the Garrick Club and the Worshipful Company of Basket Makers and he loved to host a party, which gave him the opportunity to give one of his many elegant, if not a little self-indulgent, speeches. He was
He was ready, and although he drifted in and out of sleep, his face once again beamed when he saw me. He took my hand and slowly brought it to his lips and kissed it.
Needless to say, the tears flowed, as they do now as I relive this moment.
‘Thank you for being a wonderful daughter darling,’ he whispered.
‘Thank you for being such a wonderful dad,’ I sobbed.
an absolute demon at chess and regularly beat the computer well into his 90s. To his family, he was a loving grandfather and great-grandfather and to my brother and I, he was Dad.
During our video calls we would discuss all sorts of topics, including his deep faith, politics, his meetings with friends and more latterly, his ailments. I would also visit him in London and each time I kissed him goodbye I tried not to wonder if this would be the last time. But a few weeks before he passed away, he quietly spoke to me and told me he believed he was dying. “But Dad, you look fine!” and he did. A little thinner perhaps, but still with that twinkle in his eye - and colour in his cheeks. “Darling, I’m 95, I’ve had a good life, been very lucky - and I’m tired.”
I held his hand, holding back the tears, hoping this was just a bad day; but on this occasion, it wasn’t. Over the next week he suffered a few falls and Molly eventually called to say that they were on their way to hospital, as his legs had stopped working. Shortly after that, he was transferred to a home in Putney, where my husband and I visited. I knew when I walked into his room and saw him that it wasn’t going to be long.
‘Don’t cry,’ he said, his way of telling me it’s as it should be and that he’d accepted he was dying.
He later drifted off to sleep to meet his maker, and my heart was broken. My darling dad was gone.
Despite 24 years spent helping others through
“Having spent 24 years helping others through their own loss, I was about to confront grief myself”
their own loss as a spiritual therapist, I was now about to confront grief myself. It’s only nine weeks since his passing, but from the moment it became real, I told myself two things. Firstly, losing a parent is a natural event and therefore somewhere within my psyche, I’m equipped to cope with it. Secondly, and like so many events in life, we can either suffer - or learn and grow from the experience. I decided suffering wasn’t an option.
Being equipped with beliefs and tools from meditation teaching, I knew it was important to find pockets of calm, even for ten minutes a day. I also take extra care of my body and mind, with healthy food and nutrition - and I think this has helped me through this difficult moment. The grieving journey is a tough one and a clear head, with the grey cells firing on all cylinders, is the only way. Booze and junk food are a quick fix, and grief is a long path. I’ve also written down my thoughts, allowing me to properly process what is happening. Also, I’m kind to myself - with bath oils, perhaps a walk - and regularly meeting up with positive, supportive, loving family and friends.
The tears are now daily rather than hourly, and I’ve realised that I’m much stronger than I thought; I’ve decided that if I can continue
life without my darling dad, I can cope with most things life will throw at me. Whilst my phone sadly refuses to give me that one last Facetime, the feeling of love that Dad left behind is very comforting and real.”
l Spiritually attuned practitioner and psychic medium, Lizzie, offers guided meditations, quantum jumpings, hypnotherapy and NLP.
Visit, beautiful-thinking.co.uk
GARDENERS’ QUESTION TIME
Suffolk horticulturalist and garden designer
Nick Nicholson answers your questions ...
What should we do first in the garden this February?
Bulbs are coming up now; you can see the daffodil stems and the snowdrops are out. The problem is a lot of the bigger bulbs, like daffodils, use up lot of room in a border and take until June to die down. So you might want to think about thinning them out. In a smaller garden it may be worth replacing them with more striking ephemeral species like muscari, otherwise known as grape hyacinth. There are different varieties in different shades of blue, notably Valerie Finnis, which are a lovely pastel blue. They’re also less bulky and die down quicker than those big thuggish daffs!
Why does my lawn look so terrible?
This is the worst time of year for lawns. They may be colonised by moss and will show weeds that have arrived since last year’s mowing season. Moss is often a reflection of
poor drainage which suggests there may be an underlying problem needing attention. So if you’re planning to replace your lawn ensure that drainage problems are resolved and ideally bring in new topsoil before laying fresh turf or reseeding. Most annual weeds will disappear after a few mows and once the grass thickens up the lawn will look a lot better. Isolated problem areas can be repaired by removing the old turf and reseeding into new topsoil.
l Find Nick at, nnplanting.co.uk
GROW YOUR OWN MADE SIMPLE! Heirloom seed company, She Grows Veg, a home-grown Suffolk business, is really blossoming. They now offer a monthly seed subscription service (two tiered for beginners and more experienced growers) and delivered direct to your door at exactly the right time to sow.
They boast more than 250 open pollinated heirloom seed varieties which promise beautiful, unique and delicious veg, fruit and flowers. This range of heirloom seeds cannot be found in the shops and is well worth a look. I’m going to be trying them for myself and will report in this column later in the year!
l Visit, shegrowsveg.com
Muscari Valerie Finnis
IS THIS YOUR DOG?
Suffolk artist Samantha Barnes is now taking commission for her legendary dog portraits, having reinvigorated her passion after a successful Instagram campaign.
A Dog A Day (#aDogaDay), in which she painted a small dog study for loving owners in time for Christmas, was a huge hit during the festive period.
“So 2025 for me is all about making more
paintings of beautiful dogs,” says Sam whose portrait above features in John Ferguson’s Suffolk Creatives exhibition (see pages 12 and 13). “This year I’m also hoping to team up with a major dog rescue charity with an awareness-raising event. It’s all very exciting and I’ll reveal more about this as soon as I can.”
In the meantime you might spot Sam in your local park drawing pooches from life as
part of her studies. Will your dog be in the frame?
Sam will be at the following local green spaces starting from March; Christchurch Park in Ipswich and Sutton Heath in Woodbridge. Dates for other locations to be confirmed.
l For details, see her Instagram @samanthabarnespaints Or visit, samanthabarnes.com
© John Ferguson
INTERIOR LIVES ...
NEW LOOK, NEW HOME IN 2025?
For qualified interior design advice speak to the team at Pippa Murphy and Associates. Their studio is conveniently based in Woodbridge and they work throughout the country on projects that transform clients present homes or help put their stamp on a new home. They say there are three pillars to their design services which include a full interior design package that works well on whole-house projects, a virtual design service for clients who live remotely and want a safe pair of hands to run their interior design project plus a full in-house soft-furnishing service providing scope for anyone wanting to upgrade their soft furnishings.
l Read more about the designers and their free consultations bookable at, pippamurphy.co.uk
BRINGING THE OUTSIDE IN ...
Houseplants can brighten even the darkest corners particularly while we wait for spring to arrive. Senior plant buyer at Dobbies, Claire Bishop, recommends grouping different sized plants together. Larger palms can be styled with Chlorophytum comosums, or Spider plants, and trailing plants in baskets for that jungly feel. Larger climbing plants can be supported with moss poles to encourage growth and stability. She suggests positioning these plants in a bright spot near a window but out of direct sunlight and water when the top layer of soil feels dry to the touch.
l Visit, dobbies.com
RELISH
The foodies’ page ...
MARCO’S NEW MENU
Marco Pierre White’s Felixstowe-based restaurant has launched a new winter menu which promises to warm the cockles.
It includes a range of seasonal specials which sit alongside the venue’s main à la carte dishes at this Orwell Road restaurant. Additionally, they are running a 1961 Prix Fixe set menu which pays homage to Pierre White’s birth year charging £19.61 for two-courses.
Mains include roast cod with lentils and pancetta (pictured), Simpson’s cottage pie, Wheeler’s of St James’s fishcake and a pea and shallot ravioli.
l Visit, mpwrestaurants.co.uk
THE LANGUAGE OF LOVE ...
The Unruly Pig, near Woodbridge, is offering a spectacular St Valentine’s Tasting Menu, including veggie option, on 14th and 15th February.
Mouth-watering mains include beef wellington with caramelised celeriac and oxtail stuffed morel, or their raviolo with lobster, prawn and salmon with chilli and lime. Puds include panna cotta with Madagascan vanilla, rhubarb and blood orange brood or Tosier chocolate cremosa with espresso and Pedro Ximénez. Delicious!
l To book a table at this multi award-winning gastropub visit, theunrulypig.co.uk
RECIPE OF THE MONTH!
If you can’t get out on Valentine’s Day, why not impress your loved one with this restaurant-standard dish. A tasty stir-fry can be dressed up or down to suit the occasion!
DUCK STIR FRY WITH OYSTER SAUCE
INGREDIENTS:
l 300g medium egg noodles
l 1 pack of Gressingham stir fry strips
l 1 tsp sesame oil
l 1 tsp light soy sauce
l 1 red onion, sliced
l ½ red pepper, sliced
l 2cm ginger, peeled and finely chopped
l 1 clove of garlic, finely chopped
l 1 tbsp oyster sauce
l 120ml chicken stock or water
l 1 spring onion, finely sliced
l Handful of coriander leaves, roughly chopped
METHOD:
1Cook the noodles according to the packet instructions then refresh them in cold water. Strain in a colander, lightly toss in a little sesame oil then set aside.
2Mix the duck stir fry strips with the sesame oil and soy sauce. Heat a wok or frying pan with a little vegetable oil. When the wok or pan begins to smoke, carefully add the duck and stir fry for 2 to 3 minutes until nearly cooked through and browned off. Remove from the wok and set aside.
3Add a little more oil to the wok and stir fry the onion and pepper for 1 minute before adding the ginger and garlic. Stir fry for another minute, then add the oyster sauce and 30ml of the stock or water. Cook for 2 more minutes, adding more stock or water when the sauce becomes sticky.
4Return the duck to the wok along with the noodles and spring onions. Lightly season the stir fry and cook for a further 2 minutes, ensuring the ingredients are well mixed and adding stock as necessary. Serve immediately and garnish with the fresh coriander alongside two glasses of fizz. Enjoy!
BREAKFAST TOUR - JOHN MACFARLANE & THE ART OF THEATRICAL DESIGNS
Gainsborough’s House, Sudbury, 7th February
Join Assistant Curator at Gainsborough’s House, Mahaut de La Motte, to discover the story behind this latest exhibition. It features the designs of the international stage and costume designer, from operas and ballets. The exhibition itself runs until 20th April.
l Tickets for the breakfast tour cost £15 per person. Visit, gainsborough.org
QUEEN OF THE NIGHT: THE WHITNEY HOUSTON SHOW
Felixstowe Spa Pavilion – 22nd March |
The Apex, Bury St Edmunds – 5th June
A spine-tingling tribute to one of the greatest voices of all time, Queen of the Night brings Whitney Houston’s unforgettable hits back to life. Featuring an outstanding cast and a full live band, it takes you on a journey through her incredible career, from I Will Always Love You to I Wanna Dance With Somebody. A must-see for all Whitney fans!
l Tickets to the Felixstowe performance visit, spapavilion.uk
For tickets to The Apex show in June visit, theapex.co.uk
OUT
Top things to do around Suffolk this spring … AND ABOUT!
A MANFORD ALL SEASONS
Ipswich Regent, 13th February, 7.30pm
Jason Manford is back with his brand-new live show. Fans of his Absolute Radio show will know this nationally acclaimed comedian – a Lancashire lad - hasn’t changed one bit. Jason’s trademark observational comedy has earned him many awards and TV roles since he broke onto the comedy scene back in 1999. He’s even described as “very funny” by comedy royalty, Peter Kay.
l Tickets are selling fast. Visit, ipswichtheatres.co.uk
INK FESTIVAL
The Cut and venues around Halesworth, 24th - 28th April
Dates for your diaries! INK is back and this year it promises 70 new in-house produced short plays during this fabulous event which envelopes Halesworth, throughout an array of venues.
To date, INK has produced and performed over 700 new short plays for the stage and radio.
Famous writing names who have written plays for this year’s event, themed around a tin can, include Simon Evans, Nigel Planer, Simon Nye, Mark Ravenhill and Benedict Nightingale. Evening headliners include Paul Greengrass, Paul Sinha and The Comedy Store featuring Josie Lawrence.
The INK Youth Festival - the only one in the UK - takes place on 28th April.
l Visit, inkfestival.org
A TRYAL OF WITCHES
Theatre Royal, Bury St Edmunds - 7th – 22nd March
Set in East Anglia during the hot and stifling summer of 1645 and written by Tallulah Brown. The story centres around self-appointed ‘Witchfinder General’ Matthew Hopkins who travelled from village to village preaching about the power of the devil and the prevalence of witches. Far from being a trial of witches, this was really a trial of women.
The play also examines how the Bury St Edmunds trial was the first time women were convicted using ‘spectral evidence’ - the belief that witches could be in two places at one time. A new play with original music composed by the band, TRILLS.
l For tickets visit, theatreroyal.org
