Living in Woodbridge - Issue 21 by Living in ...

ISSUE SUMMER 2016 ISSUE ONE… 21 ... DECEMBER / JANUARY 2020

LIVING IN

SUFFOLK Songbird Suffolk’s soprano Local home… owners… throw open their doors CBD oil … does itmeet really Child free zones?… thework? couple with the Parent Pod! Is grey just so… last year?… homes Jojo Humes Brown on colours House loan unusual

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dec/jan

IN suffolk coastal …

elcome to issue 21! Bringing together Christmas and New Year in one bumper edition under a name change, we’re delighted with the reception Living In … has received now it’s available to pick up and enjoy from Southwold to Felixstowe, and most places in between. In this issue we meet local veterans Gary Edwards and Trevor Coult, who explain how, since leaving the forces, life hasn’t always been that easy, especially at this time of year. With almost 34,000 veterans living in Suffolk, Gary and Trevor share their experiences on page seven. With medicinal cannabis hitting the headlines quite often nowadays, on page 13 we learn more about CBD oil and also meet Matthew Wilkes, who recently opened The Hemp Hut in Southwold. Volunteering in a refugee camp at Qab Elias in the Lebanon’s Bekaa Valley – about an hour from Beirut and 30 minutes from Damascus – dentist Sarah Weston and her dental nurse friend Debs Lawrence recently spent five days treating displaced Syrians living in the camp. Read their compelling story on page 17. How we spend Christmas Day is very much about family tradition. To find out more, we spent an insightful day meeting people across the region and learning about how the big day works for them (page nine). And, because everyone loves a Christmas tree, we headed just north of Beccles to meet grower Trevor Oram for this issue’s The Day Job feature (page 15). Keeping your tree alive over the festive season can seem daunting enough, but did you know they need a whole lot of love and care for anything up to eight years prior to ending up in your lounge? Dog About Town is everyone’s favourite read and in this issue we bring you not one, but 12 hounds of Christmas, on pages 34 and 35. Happy reading and wishing everyone a peaceful and prosperous 2020.

Angela & Lyn ISSUE ONE… SUMMER 2016

LIVING IN Editors: Angela Hagan (T: 07930 184773) and Lyn Peters (T: 07909 544496) Designers: Craig Drever and Lewis Webb info@livinginsuffolk.com www.livinginsuffolk.com Due East Media Ltd: 39 Seckford Street, Woodbridge, Suffolk IP12 4LY Registered in England number 10242873 Disclaimer: Whilst every care has been taken to ensure that the data in this publication is accurate, neither the publisher nor the editor, nor its editorial contributors can accept, and hereby disclaim, any liability to any party for omissions resulting from negligence, accident or any other cause. All artwork is accepted on the strict condition that permission has been given for use in this publication. Living In … Suffolk Coastal does not officially endorse any advertising material included within this publication. All rights reserved. No parts of this publication may be reproduced, without prior permission of Due East Media Ltd.

Local home owners… throw open their doors Child free zones?… meet the couple with the Parent Pod! Is grey just so last year?… Jojo Humes Brown on colours

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32 get involved

ISSUE SUMMER 2016 ISSUE ONE… 21 ... DECEMBER / JANUARY 2020

If you’ve got a heartwarming story to tell, an inspiring home or you’re an up-and-coming entrepreneur, we’d love to hear from you. The copy deadline for our February/March edition is 17th January and copies are available to pick up and enjoy from 7th February. l For advertising info and to tell us your stories, email info@livinginsuffolk.com

LIVING IN

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WHAT’S INSIDE 7 Suffering in silence 15 The Day Job 17 Filling a Void 20 Change of Scenery 25 Living In … Travel 32 Culture Vultures

ON THE COVER

The Down Hillers is an acrylic on panel by Stephanie Lambourne (it’s 6x6ins for £225). She says: “It was inspired by memories of racing back from school to go tobogganing with friends.” Her work is part of the Christmas Exhibition 2019 at Southwold Art Gallery, 64a High Street, Southwold. Call the gallery on 01502 723888 or see www.southwoldgallery.co.uk ISSUE ONE… SUMMER 2016

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Game on!

he hugely talented head chef of The Unruly Pig in Woodbridge, Dave Wall, is in the headlines again. Dave competed in the semi-final “cook off’ last month (November) and has made it through to the prestigious Game Chef of the Year 2020 final. Judged by some of the UK’s highest calibre Michelin-starred chefs including Clare Smyth (from two-star Core in London), Claude Bosi (from two-star Bibendum) and Matt Abe (from threestar Restaurant Gordon Ramsay), the competition took place at Leiths School of Food and Wine in London. Chefs were required to prepare, cook and present two game-based dishes –

a starter and a main course – to the judges. the overall Game Chef of the Year 2020 will Dave wowed them with roasted partridge win a once-in-a-lifetime three-night leg and wild mushroom bun to start. For Michelin dining experience plus the chance his main, Dave cooked grouse served to take part in a wild boar hunt in Sweden. with grouse faggot, ‘loaded’ Jerusalem “Dave does it again,” said proud owner artichoke skin, ceps and damson. of The Unruly Pig, Brendan Padfield. “It’s a “I’m thrilled to huge achievement be in the national to make it to the final,” says Dave. final and the whole “It was an honour team here are so and privilege to cook proud of his for such prestigious continued success judges and get their and all the awards feedback. The he wins.” partridge breasts After a string of were roasted pink accolades and other on the crown in awards, Dave was foaming butter, recently a Chef of garlic and thyme, the Year finalist in before being filleted the Great British Pub and basted back in Awards 2019, and their resting juices. was named by his I hope it doesn’t peers as Best Pub sound too immodest Restaurant Chef in if I say I was pleased the Craft Guild of with the dish.” Chefs Awards 2019. The national final takes place l To sample Dave’s in Birmingham “It was an honour to cook superb dishes, book on January 27th. a table at The Unruly for such prestigious judges” Pig on 01394 460310 Besides the honour of winning such a or online at www. dave wall, head chef at prestigious award, theunrulypig.co.uk the unruly pig, woodbridge

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ISSUE ONE… SUMMER 2016

local news

drugs shortage

s it emerges that vital prescription medicines are in short supply, Living In … finds out what’s happening in coastal Suffolk. Documents leaked recently to a national newspaper showed 17 new drug shortages

including medication for Parkinson’s, cancer, mental health issues and some eye conditions. It also identified ongoing issues with 69 different types and doses of medication, including antibiotics for tuberculosis, diamorphine and various cancer, heart and epilepsy drugs. Suffolk resident Pam Mayfield says: “We’ve been waiting for my teenage son’s prescription for his mental health issues for well over a week – and when I went in to pick it up today I was told it still wasn’t there due to a national supply problem in Europe. So we’re now waiting for the pharmacist to liaise with the GP about an alternative. I don’t know if this is to do with Brexit or that people are stockpiling, causing a shortage, but every day that passes without his medication is a bad one for my son and our family.” Walton Pharmacy’s Karl Legg confirmed he and many other coastal colleagues have experienced drug shortages locally. “Lately it’s been in HRT medication,” he says. “But this is not a local issue, it’s a national one. And to be honest, I don’t think this is necessarily to do with Brexit (although a No Deal would be a real concern) as we had this situation around three or four years ago and it lasted a few months. It can be a number of reasons. “For example, there’s a shortage in the supply of a certain stomach medication at the moment but that’s because there was a recall due to contaminants found in the raw product, which then meant it went out of stock. “As pharmacists, we work very closely with GPs on alternatives. But what happens is the alternative we find might then runs out and this starts a domino effect.” He also blamed “market conditions” for some shortages. “Sometimes medicines can be sold for more money abroad and now the exchange rate isn’t so great, this can affect things greatly.” So what is the advice to residents who need prescription medication in this part

of the region? “Get your prescription in with plenty of time to allow the pharmacist and the doctor to come up with an alternative if it turns out your medication is on the short supply list,” he says. “Maybe give it an extra two or three days to what you would normally expect. I’m hoping that this is all just a blip.” Local home owners… throw open their doors Child free zones?… meet the couple with the Parent Pod! Is grey just so last year?… Jojo Humes Brown on colours

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Tania Farrow, Chief Officer of the Suffolk Local Pharmaceutical Committee, which represents community pharmacies across the county, on what patients should do ... “The reasons for the current shortages are complex and varied and this is being looked at nationally. However, pharmacists and their teams are fully aware of the anxiety and distress the shortages can cause for patients and they are working hard alongside GP colleagues to minimise this. “It is difficult to predict which medicines will be affected, so we would advise all patients to ensure they order medicines about a week before they are due to run out so that there is time for any issues to be dealt with, especially in the run-up to Christmas. There is no need to order additional supplies as this can make availability worse, and it is important that you work with your pharmacy to ensure you do not run out of medication. It may be necessary to temporarily change to another medicine suitable for your condition until the supply issues are resolved but that will only happen after discussions with your GP.” l Did you know that Aldeburgh Pharmacy is open all over the festive period? Including Christmas Day, 10am –12pm, Boxing Day, 10am – 3pm and New Year’s Day, 10am – 3pm.

council’s christmas gift!

ast Suffolk Council has announced free parking for everyone using council-owned car parks on the following dates:

Aldeburgh l Christmas Lights switch-on, Saturday, 7th December (10am – 6pm)

Beccles All council-owned car parks l Saturday, 14th December (2 – 5pm) l Saturday, 21st December (2 – 5pm) Bungay All council-owned car parks l Friday, 20th December (11am – 2pm) l Saturday, 21st December (11am – 2pm)

l Tuesday, 24th December (10am – 12pm)

l Tuesday, 24th December (2 – 6pm)

Felixstowe Highfield Road, Crescent Road and Ranelagh Road car parks l Friday, 20th December (10am – 2pm) to support the opening of the ice rink

Woodbridge Hamblin Road car park l Saturday, 14th December (12pm – 4pm) l Saturday, 21st December (12pm – 4pm)

Leiston Sizewell Road and High Street car parks l Christmas Fair, Saturday, 30th November (10am – 2pm) l Christmas shopping, Saturday, 21st December (12 – 4pm) Wickham Market The Hill long and short stay car parks l Friday, 20th December (2 – 6pm) ISSUE ONE… SUMMER 2016

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ISSUE ONE… SUMMER 2016

topical story

Local home owners… throw open their doors Child free zones?… meet the couple with the Parent Pod! Is grey just so last year?… Jojo Humes Brown on colours

Suffering in silence

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Trevor Coult MC was a member of the Irish Royal Regiment and is now committed to assisting fellow veterans in need

Around 34,000 veterans live in Suffolk. Here we meet two who have suffered difficulties with life after the forces …

t might be a joyous occasion for many of us, but Christmas and New Year can be a tough time for veterans, old and young, battling life on civvy street. Once upon a time, Gary Edwards used to find it incredibly hard to raise a smile over the festive period. “But once I’d received help for my mental health issues, Christmas became a thing of joy,” says the former serviceman. “The Armed Forces have now started to realise the importance of mental health but more needs doing. It should be one of the biggest priorities for members of the Armed Forces who have served, especially for those that have seen active service.” Cabinet minister Oliver Dowden, who represents the newly formed Office for Veterans’ Affairs in Cabinet made a recent pledge to offer more help: “We can make sure that government delivers on its promises to those who have served and make it easier for veterans and their

Former serviceman Gary Edwards, now and in uniform. He has benefitted from the support of a number of veterans’ charities

families to get the support they need.” For Gary it didn’t come soon enough. After being injured in the services, his life spiralled. His brother, Richard, a soldier serving in the Royal Signals, committed suicide and then, tragically, Gary’s beloved son, Christopher, died from a bleed to the brain. “In a few short years I’d lost my brother, my son and my military career,” he recalls. “I was medically discharged and was physically and mentally lost. I used alcohol as a crutch and spent a long time not dealing with either my mental or physical issues. Little help was offered from the forces and, to be honest, I didn’t know that I needed them.” It was the help of his family and a charity called Back on Track, providing private medical care to veterans, which helped him get his life together. Now the run coordinator of The Great Run Local Alton Water, a free weekly 2k and 5k run or walk, he urges other veterans to speak up. “Don’t sit at home suffering alone or in silence,” he says. “There is plenty of help out there that can get you back on track. Try the SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity (formerly known as the Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Families Association), the British Legion or even the Samaritans and they can give you the help and support you both need and deserve. It really can change your life for the better.” Woodbridge’s Trevor Coult MC believes there is help out there – but not necessarily in the obvious places. Trevor served in the Royal Irish Regiment for 20 years, receiving the Military Cross for fighting off insurgents in Baghdad. Like so many, he came home from his tours in Afghanistan and Iraq suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and is on medication to help him cope. “This year, 61 veterans took their own

lives in the UK, last year 86 did,” says Trevor, who has raised funds and purchased a mobile clinic to reach vulnerable veterans and help them get back on their feet by providing advice and support. “The Office for Veterans’ Affairs isn’t doing anything at grassroots level to help these veterans.

“I was physically and mentally lost” gary edwards, former soldier

“Johnny Mercer, the Minister for Veterans’ Affairs, helped get this office £5m to set it up and from what I can tell, the money has gone on setting four members of parliament up in cosy offices with PAs. There are lots of videos being made to say how good they’re doing but it’s just words, nothing has been done to help the veterans who really need it.” Trevor says in Suffolk there’s a lot of help on hand for ex-servicemen and women. He has a Facebook page called First Into Sangin which has 31,000 followers and he’s happy to offer help to people through that. “I also work closely with a group called Veterans United Against Suicide who do great work. “Other charities that tend to get overlooked are the Samaritans and Salvation Army. People reading this who want to help can donate money, or in the Salvation Army’s case, donate warm clothes, hats and gloves to them over the winter.” l For further information, find Trevor’s Facebook page. For the Salvation Army, go to www.salvationarmy.org.uk l For help with these issues, go to www.veteransgateway.org.uk or try www.suffolkmilitarycovenant.org.uk ISSUE ONE… SUMMER 2016

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CHRISTMAS TRADITIONS!

How do you spend yours? Living In … took to the streets to find out …

James Cartwright The Woodbridge-based Archers actor, who recently hit the big screens in the starstudded Downton film, says he might be a 30-something but he still has a Christmas sack filled by his mum (who he’s pictured with here)! “I’m one of four children and Mum still hangs our stockings above the fireplace and as well as our presents inside, we always get a tangerine too,” smiles the Lancashire lad. “Another Christmas tradition we have is we always watch the film Planes, Trains and Automobiles with Steve Martin and John Candy, which we love! Dinner-wise, I’m a vegetarian, so it’s a nut roast hacienda for me! This year I’m spending Christmas with my lass Sarah’s family in Suffolk and she’s one of four too, and all the family will be there which will be lovely.”

Nikki and Martin Bailie The couple, from Hacheston, will be celebrating Christmas with more energy and joy than ever before. After complications from ovarian cancer, from which she recently ended up on hospital life support, Nikki is now, thankfully, in recovery. “The best thing about this Christmas is being able to see it,” smiles the mum-oftwo. “I’m so happy to be alive and am just counting my blessings.” She says that she’s also a fan of the Christmas stocking, even though it’s quite an effort to actually fill them! “My mum made us these massive ones – they’re about 5ft 4in tall. They’re as big as us!” Here’s wishing this lovely couple a magical Christmas and fabulous New Year.

Gary Garnham The senior partner of acclaimed Wickham Market butchers E.W Revett & Son says Christmas is the busiest time of year and, come Christmas Day, he and wife Helen are fit to drop! “Yes, we’re exhausted by Christmas Day,” smiles Gary, “as the weeks leading up to it are very busy for all of us. In the week running up to it, I usually have 2am starts getting into the shop to prepare for all the orders we’ve got, as well as putting on a fresh front in the shop every day. On Christmas Day, Helen and I usually spend it at home alone, after seeing my sisters in the morning, and she’ll have cooked a piece of topside beef and a bronzed turkey and we just have sandwiches and relax!”

LIBBY WATKISS & DOLLY Libby says she’s looking forward to seeing 15month-old Dolly’s face when she opens her presents this year. “Before babies, we’d have been out at the pub on Christmas Eve but it’s all different now! On Christmas morning we get up early and check our stockings, and then this year we’ll go downstairs to see what Father Christmas has brought for Dolly,” smiles Libby, from Aldeburgh. “We always watch The Muppet Christmas Carol, that’s a massive family tradition that we all love. “This year we will be spending Christmas Day with my husband’s family and then seeing my family at the weekend. I love the festive food: the turkey and all the trimmings; the sausages and bacon; the sprouts with pancetta and chesnuts; the cheeses; and the Christmas pudding, which only my dad and I eat nowadays. And the pudding wine we drink while playing games. I’m looking forward to it!”

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MOVERS SHAKERS

Acclaimed opera singer Christina Johnston lives in Old Felixstowe … You’re a Suffolk girl? Yes, Suffolk has always had my heart, even when I lived abroad! I grew up in Framlingham; all my family are from there. My mum was manager at The Crown, my grandparents owned the pharmacy and my other grandparents managed Bridges & Garrards, so deeprooted ties! My auntie used to be head custodian of the castle in Framlingham and she lived in the house inside. We used to spend birthdays and Christmas in the castle; it was truly magical as a child! How did you become an opera singer? I always knew I wanted to be on stage, either acting, dancing or singing – but preferably all three! When I was nine, my dad was listening to Maria Callas and I was mesmerised by her voice and the amount of control, beauty and power she had. Being Britney Spears was no longer a dream, being Maria Callas was! I went to Framlingham College and the teachers there went out of their way to help. At 17, I won a scholarship to the Guildhall School of Music and Drama. I became a young artist at Prague National Theatre at 21 and debuted as Queen of the Night in Mozart’s Magic Flute a few months later. It was a dream come true! What has been your most memorable performance so far? It has to be in South America when I was on my solo tour with an orchestra. We performed in the most amazing concert hall in Lima, the capital city of Peru. It was the Grand National Theatre and all the world’s most famous opera singers have graced the stage there, including

Anna Netrebko, Juan Florez and my favourite, Natalie Dessay. It was truly amazing and humbling. What’s been the highlight of your career? What comes first to mind is my debut as Queen of the Night. But actually, I think it was the honour of singing to both the Czech and Chinese presidents in Prague and then being invited to China to sing for the Chinese president at the county’s anniversary celebrations of the end of World War II. It was an incredible experience and such an honour he wanted me there. It was featured on Chinese TV. When I came back to the UK, I went to my favourite Chinese restaurant here in Suffolk and I was amazed that the chefs recognised me and came out to have a photo taken with me!

“I froze – with 2,000 people watching me” Where do you see yourself in ten years? I hope I’d have a few more albums out and to have toured around the world with an orchestra a few more times. And to still be living in Suffolk, of course! But mostly to have made it to Hollywood and starred in a musical film. That’s my long-term dream, to merge singing with acting! What’s your favourite place in Suffolk? I absolutely love Felixstowe and living five minutes’ walk from the beach with views of the farm behind us, but I would have to say my favourite place is Framlingham because it’s my childhood home, and I was

also blessed to have met my now-husband there, aged 12! He had been sent over from Russia to board at the school. Most days I have off we gravitate over there! What would you say is your greatest personal achievement? It has to be marrying my childhood friend, my darling Slava at 21 in All Souls Church in London where I took part in the BBC’s Choirgirl of the Year a few years prior. Also, when I was 11, we lost my dearest Daddy and he always made me promise that if anything ever happened to him that I’d take care of my mum as she was left disabled after a major car accident we’d had when I was three. I’ve always felt a responsibility to take care of her as she sacrificed everything for me to be able to pursue my dream. Now to be in a position where I can look after her completely makes me feel Daddy would be proud. Tell us a secret about yourself! I haven’t told many people but once, on stage, I was performing in Mozart’s Don Giovanni for what must have been the 30th time, and I completely forgot my words! I froze – with 2,000 people watching me and my cast members. I began speaking nonsense for what felt like ages! It was all because I’d been chatting away to my husband in my dressing room beforehand and I wasn’t concentrating. Since then I’ve never let anyone in my dressing room with me as I never want to have that happen again! l www.christinajohnstonofficial.com ISSUE ONE… SUMMER 2016

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CBd – myth or

miracle? Living In … Suffolk Coastal editor Angela Hagan on how it has changed her life …

“

illions watched last month as former BBC Breakfast presenter Bill Turnbull (left) talked of his cancer battle in the heartfelt TV documentary, Staying Alive. Dad-of-three heard that it was being used successfully Bill was diagnosed with advanced in the fight against epilepsy. prostate cancer at the end of 2017. Bill Bill Turnbull is quite right – there is not revealed he’s taken drastic steps including enough scientific research into CBD oil and quitting meat and alcohol and taking you’ll be hard-pressed to find a GP who cannabidiol (CBD) oil to ease his will endorse and prescribe it over and symptoms. CBD, to the uninformed, is above all the usual pharmaceutical extracted from hemp, a variety of the options. In effect, if you decide to try it as I cannabis sativa plant. CBD products are did, sourcing it privately from legitimate legally only allowed to contain a small companies which, due to UK legislation, amount of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), are unable to make any real health claims, which is the psychoactive substance you will become your own guinea pig. Any found in marijuana that produces its real anecdotal research seems to have mind-altering high. been pushed underground and limited to Bill, from Suffolk, says: “The difficulty groups of people online, brought together with cannabis is by a refusal to exclusively there is a lot of accept western medicine’s ‘He won’t make anecdotal evidence. tackling of terminal or Full-time scientific chronic disease. old bones,” an evidence is thin on the But times are changing. emergency vet ground. I have tried it. Last year the government The difficulty is getting made a landmark decision, grimly told us the proportions right and allowing UK doctors to knowing what to take. I prescribe medical take CBD every day and find it helpful.” cannabis albeit under extremely limited Like Bill, I discovered CBD oil during a bit circumstances. More recently, it has just of a crisis. greenlit the first cannabis-based medicine Our beloved border collie Max (top for childhood epilepsy which is expected to right) had just been diagnosed with be available soon. idiopathic epilepsy and his terrifyingly In surveys by Dynata and YouGov, they frequent seizures were hanging over our indicate that between 4-6 million UK household like the sword of Damocles. adults have tried CBD. The market is “He won’t make old bones,” an emergency currently growing at double digits and is vet grimly told us after one particularly expected to be worth just short of bad grand mal seizure left him battered £1billion by 2025. and bruised. Max’s epilepsy medication And all I can say is, having trialled several alone didn’t seem to be able to contain different brands and dosages of CBD these violent episodes. As his fits mostly myself, I’ve found one that seems to have happened at night, I learnt to sleep with put paid to my sleepless nights! As for my one eye open … dog Max, whilst I know it won’t ever cure I couldn’t believe it when our his epilepsy, I feel that CBD has reduced the wonderful, open-minded regular vet severity of some of his fits enough to have suggested we try Max on CBD oil. He’d extended his life beyond expectation.”

WHAT IS CBd?

Matthew Wilkes of the newly opened Hemp Hut in Southwold explains ... “CBD or cannabidiol is one of over 100 chemical compounds, known as cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant. CBD is non psychoactive, unlike its controversial and illegal cousin, THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol. And in this country the CBD available is derived from hemp, the industrial, low THC variation of cannabis.You can buy CBD in many different forms, from the more well known sublingual drops to topicals infused with CBD and essential oils such as balms and salves. There are also teas, coffees, vapes and chocolates all infused with CBD, with new products coming to market all the time. Before trying CBD for the first time it’s important to do your own research into what might suit you best and always buy CBD that is third party lab tested to ensure you’re getting a high quality product.” l The Hemp Hut is based at 7b Child’s Yard in Southwold. Call 01502 725047 or go to www.hemphutsouthwold.com

ISSUE ONE… SUMMER 2016

ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

all change at the bull inn

arah and David Clarke have recently acquired Woodbridge’s prestigious and historic 16th century inn, The Bull, with plans to restore it to its former glory, making it a hub for the town’s social life. David tells us: “Sarah is overseeing the renovation, and customers have been impressed with the changes so far. The restaurant seating area is now finished, with the bar the next major challenge. An external seating area at the front of the property is also expected for next summer but is currently slowly meandering its way through the planning process.” Regulars at the Market Hill venue will already know that Sarah is from New Zealand and this is reflected in the drinks and daytime food offering. The wine menu has a strong New Zealand theme, and this is highlighted with an outstanding Sauvignon Blanc which is also available by the glass. The daytime menu boasts a superb Kiwi-cafe theme with an exciting, fresh and wholesome brunch and lunch menu – food served in a relaxed and informal setting but with a restaurant level of quality. David is from England and the evening menu reflects his passion for traditional

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British food – simple but cooked exceptionally well. The bulk of the ingredients are sourced locally within Suffolk, ensuring the menu showcases the seasons’ best food. David is also a sommelier and there is a very extensive and impressive wine menu. “We host wine tasting evenings at The Bull,” he tells us, explaining his Woodbridge Wine Club also hosts events there where taster menus are paired with matching wines, as well as masterclasses from some of the world’s best winemakers. Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET) programmes are also available. While the renovation programme has some way to go, David and Sarah’s friendly and enthusiastic outlook has more than offset any inconvenience caused by interim works. Indeed, both have found there is an incredible degree of goodwill and support from locals who share a deep fondness for this lovely establishment and are excited by the prospect of The Bull entering a new and fresh lease of life. Sarah and David look forward to seeing you soon! l To book a table, call 01394 382089 or email reception@bullinnwoodbridge.co.uk

“We host wine tasting evenings” david & sarah clarke, owners

the day job … Christmas tree farmer Trevor Oram explains there’s more to growing the perfect tree than meets the eye

“

ith 55,000 Christmas trees growing at any one time over 16 acres, tending them is a year-

round job. An average Christmas tree takes seven years to get to six feet. Planted by hand in the winter when the trees are dormant – a metre apart – we nurture and fertilise them and then spray them for aphids, which are one of our biggest problems.

“A sawn-off tree always lasts longer than a rooted one”

Above: Trevor, pictured, says for many of his customers, coming to the farm marks the start of their Christmas Above right: The Wrentham Christmas Trees team use branch pullers to help fill in gaps and produce fullerlooking trees

For the last few years we’ve been reducing the amount of chemicals we use and have adopted a biodiverse approach. By intensely feeding the birds around the farm, and putting up nesting boxes, they come and feed on the greenfly and take them back for their chicks. If a tree is covered with greenfly, we put a ribbon on it and after two or three generations the birds instinctively know that tree is their food table and come and clear it of aphids. Harvesting for us starts in late November. We don’t like to sell trees before that, as people’s homes are too hot, and the needles will just drop. A sawn-off tree always lasts

longer than a rooted one. The trunk roots will dry out in a couple of hours, whereas a sawn-off tree keeps taking water up through its trunk for another two-and-ahalf weeks. We love having customers visit the farm, park in the yard and head up to our fields. Our trained team chainsaw the selected tree, and transport it from the field back to the barn on quad bikes and trailers, where it’s netted up for its journey home. For many people, coming here marks the start of their Christmas. People often bring mince pies, sloe gin or sherry to enjoy whilst selecting their tree, and then share it with our guys, which is very kind. At the height of the season, the trees keep 17 of us busy – a mix of friends and self-employed people who come to help. Tending the trees involves more than you might think. In January, we hand shear every one of the 55,000 to help them keep their uniform shape. Then we’ve come up with a technique to encourage the branches to grow into any gaps. Our yellow branch-pullers are left on the tree for three-to-four weeks, by which time the branch will have set itself. We then take them off and move them on to another tree. When the trees reach six feet and are almost touching, we go through

the fields tagging the ones that need to come out to give the others space to grow. The tagged trees are then cut down and can be bought in the yard. But mostly everyone likes to come up to the fields. Our Christmas tree fields have their own little ecosystem. There are little dark brown mice that I’ve only ever seen among the trees and never in the arable fields. These mice then feed the barn owls, the kestrels and everything else. We fence the fields to keep the rabbits and hares out, especially when the trees are young as otherwise they’ll take the tops out which then deforms the tree. Muntjac and Chinese water deer visit too, but they just jump the fence anyway, so you just have to accept you’ll have a few trees damaged. But that’s part of wildlife and you must live with that. You can’t control everything, and you wouldn’t want to. My father started growing Christmas trees here 60 years ago, and my wife, Donna, and I took over the business when he retired. We’ve got 125 acres here on the farm but it’s the Christmas tree business that gives us the most pleasure. We just love it.” l For Trevor’s top tips on keeping your tree looking its best, visit www.wrenthamchristmastrees.com ISSUE ONE… SUMMER 2016

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FILLING A VOID Dentist Sarah Weston talks to Living In … about her emotional trip to Lebanon to offer her services …

his Christmas Sarah Weston will enjoy the warm glow of festivities with her husband and three children. But she can be forgiven for taking time out to think about those she helped on her recent trip to Lebanon whose daily life is one of hardship and struggle. Sarah, who works at mydentist in Melton and her friend dental nurse friend, Debs Lawrence, from Woodbridge (both pictured standing, right), made the epic journey after raising funds back in the summer for Dental Mavericks. The charity runs projects in Lebanon and Morocco helping to relieve people from dental pain as well as setting up prevention programmes. “Life is hard for displaced Syrians and many families will spend this winter in tents in the rain and snow,” says Sarah. “The project is in Qab Elias in the Bekaa Valley - about one hour from Beirut and 30 minutes from Damascus. Debss and I spent five days treating displaced Syrians living in the camp. We saw 167 people in total – giving 100 fillings and removing over 60 teeth at the clinic there. “The clinic is basic and very busy with people queuing around the block with some coming back more than once. “We ran a prevention programme with the small children who attend the same building for their lessons. The aim is for the teachers to be trained in oral hygiene instructions and the toothbrushes to be kept in the classroom to encourage cleaning at least one a day.” Mum-of-three Sarah says she decided to go on the trip as she felt the need to give a bit back. “We both wanted to volunteer overseas for a while but decided to wait until our children were older,” she says. “This opportunity came at just the right time for us. Working in healthcare, I think you naturally have a desire to help people so this was just a extension of what we do on a daily basis but with a bit more adventure thrown in!” A brave venture maybe but did they ever fear for their own safety? “We felt totally safe the whole time,” smiles Sarah. “There were a few military checkpoints to go through but at no point did we feel scared. In fact all the people we met were incredibly kind and friendly.” She says it felt great knowing that they’ve made a difference to the many people they met. “In dentistry, prevention is better than cure,” she says. “The clinics are pretty well equipped but these families are living without toothbrushes and toothpaste. Plus education is key. Simple approaches can often have the greatest impact.” “We would love to go back. We had to raise nearly £2000 to fund the trip (through a sponsored walk and car boot sales) and we used up part of our annual leave so it may be difficult to return in the near future. But in the meantime we are both working hard to raise awareness over here and do what we can from the UK.” l Dental Mavericks has reached approximately 59,000 people in 93 locations through successful outreach projects with the kind support of many volunteers like Sarah and Debs. This is all achieved on a shoestring budget. For more information, or to donate much-needed funds, go to www.dentalmavericks.org

FACT FILE: LEBANON The country’s infrastructure never fully recovered after the 1975-89 civil war reaching breaking point in recent years with the arrival of more than one million refugees fleeing from neighbouring Syria. Lebanon is now dealing with its worst economic crisis in decades with the third highest public debt-to-gross domestic product (GDP) ratio in the world standing at 150%.

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new head

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at woodbridge school

teacher at Woodbridge School for the last 18 years, Shona Norman has been appointed its head – the first female to land that role in the school’s 443year history. Having undertaken the role of acting head for the last six months, Shona’s official appointment was announced in mid-November following a selection process that involved nearly 30 applicants from across the UK and abroad. Taking up her new post on 1st January 2020, Shona says: “During my time at Woodbridge I’ve taken on a variety of roles and I couldn’t be more delighted or honoured to be given the opportunity to lead the school through its next chapter. “I came here as a trainee teacher 18 years ago and the

New head teacher Shona Norman

school had confidence in me then, and the governors have the same faith in me now. “We have one of the best learning cultures of any education establishment regionally or nationally, an expert and committed teaching staff, and over 750 vibrant and engaging pupils, who I already know and who know me. “Going forward, my job is to work with everyone, students and pupils alike, to realise the great many opportunities that

lie ahead for us.” The school is part of a trust, the Seckford Foundation, and its chair, Roger Finbow, says: “The decision of the selection panel to invite Shona to lead our school was unanimous. While she is making history as our first permanent female leader, she is also able to hit the ground running. Building on the great things she has already achieved for the school, we are confident she will lead us on to an even brighter future.” Having studied for a degree in English Literature at London University, Shona obtained her PGCE from Cambridge University before being appointed as a teacher of English at Woodbridge School in September 2002. She is married to Michael, who serves in the Royal Marines.

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Change of

Scenery

Whether you’re planning a staycation for 2020 or a few relaxing weekends away, Living In … checks out some stunning places to rent in Suffolk, proving you don’t have to travel far to get away from it all

Balancing Barn

On a site previously owned by the Suffolk Wildlife Trust at Thorington, the Balancing Barn offers wow factor in spades. Surrounded by land still owned and maintained by the Wildlife Trust, this thirtymetre cantilevered architectural gem balances off the end of the hillside and comes complete with six acres of private gardens to explore, terraces and outdoor fire-pit. It’s also the only property in Suffolk to have a swing suspended from underneath the house. Equally as stunning inside as out, the barn sleeps eight, in four bedrooms, all with en-suite facilities. To book your stay, visit www. living-architecture.co.uk

Pod Life

We just love Secret Water, a glamping pod in the southern Broads at Beccles. The first of its kind in the UK, Secret Water sleeps four and comes with a fully fitted bathroom, living space, kitchenette and a deck big enough to sit back and enjoy the river views. There’s even a small rowing dinghy for guests to use to explore the area. Located at Hippersons Boatyard, on the edge of Beccles, there’s free parking during your stay, with kayaks, canoes and bikes available to hire. Life on the river doesn’t get much better. Secret Water is available to rent from www.hippersons.co.uk

ISSUE ONE… SUMMER 2016

©photographybyemilyfae

High Rise Living

A feature on places to stay in Suffolk wouldn’t be complete without including the county’s most famous folly - The House in the Clouds at Thorpeness. Built in 1923 as the water tower for the village, the Thorpeness Estate did not like the idea of such an unattractive structure sitting proud on the local landscape and so a plan was hatched to disguise it as a house floating 70ft in the sky. Providing water to Thorpeness until 1977, this unique property offers five floors of accommodation and includes five bedrooms, a drawing room and magnificent views from the games room on the top floor. There’s even an acre of grounds to enjoy, with the village, the Meare and the sea just a few moments’ walk away. To book this unique house, email: info@houseintheclouds.co.uk

Airstream Antics

If you’re a caravan fan, check out the fab Airstreams at Happy Days Retro Vacations. Boasting a fleet of eight vintage caravans we just love ‘Dee Dee’, an old girl from 1959. Having spent most of her life at Myrtle Beach in South Carolina, Happy Days’ owners Jenni and Kevin Armstrong brought ‘Dee Dee’ across the pond in 2010 to enjoy the rest of her days in sunny Suffolk. Sleeping four (a seating area converts to a double at the front and twin beds in the middle), each caravan also has its own fire pit. Based just a mile outside Saxmundham and five miles from the coast, there’s also a kids’ play area and Red Shed Movies, an onsite cinema showing classic family friendly films twice a week, free to Happy Day visitors. To book Dee Dee or one of her Airstream buddies, visit www.happydaysrv.co.uk

©Unique Home Stays

Bawdsey Panoramic

Visible all along the Suffolk coastline, Martello towers were built between 1805 and 1812 to resist a potential invasion by Napoleon. With 13ft thick walls on the seaward side, and constructed of almost one million bricks, Bawdsey’s Martello tower, The Found, has been transformed into a stunning and unique contemporary holiday home. With accommodation spread over three floors this beautifully renovated piece of history sleeps six. To enjoy panoramic views throughout your stay, the living accommodation can be found on the top floor, along with access to a stunning roof terrace complete with firepit. The Found can be booked through www.uniquehomestays.co.uk or by contacting 01637 881183 ©Unique Home Stays

ISSUE ONE… SUMMER 2016

FAMILY RUN BUSINESS WITH OVER 30 YEARS' EXPERIENCE

Woodbridge

Guide Price £1,600,000

A luxury 5 bedroom contemporary property with views of the river Deben. Entrance hall, shower room, boot room, study, sitting room, open plan kitchen, breakfast and family room with bi-fold doors, utility, master bedroom with en-suite and balcony. A guest room with dressing room, 3 further bedrooms and a family bathroom. Double garage with studio over. Landscaped gardens. Walking distance of the river and town centre. EPC: C.

Woodbridge Guide Price £630,000

A spacious 5 bedroom detached house within easy walking distance of the town centre. The property benefits from recent improvements. A garage, ample parking and an enclosed rear garden. EPC: C

Melton Guide Price £295,000

A charming 3 bedroom period cottage which is presented in immaculate condition and benefits from gas central heating, UPVC d/g, ample parking and garden. EPC: E.

Snape Guide Price £475,000

An attractive 4 bedroom detached house in the desirable village of Snape. The property offers spacious family accommodation, double garage and enclosed rear garden with field views. EPC: D

Woodbridge Guide Price £245,000

A modern 3 bedroom mid-terrace house close to schools and shops, UPVC d/g, garden. Ideal first purchase or rental. EPC: D

Woodbridge, Town Centre

Guide Price £795,000

A deceptively spacious 4 bedroom split level town house occupying a generous plot. Entrance hall, utility, bathroom and bedroom 2, lower ground floor, cloakroom, sitting/dining room & kitchen/breakfast room, garden room and access to basement. first floor, bedroom 3 and master bedroom with en-suite on the second floor, carport and off-road parking, good sized mature garden. EPC: D

Melton Guide Price £690,000

Hasketon Guide Price £450,000

Wickham Market Guide Price £250,00

Woodbridge Guide Price £375,000

A superb 4 bedroom detached house which provides luxury family accommodation and is presented in immaculate condition, enclosed garden and double garage. EPC: B

A lovely 2 bedroom detached bungalow, gas c/h. UPVC d/g, enclosed garden and off-road parking. NO CHAIN. EPC: D

A very spacious 3 bedroom detached bungalow with garage and parking and approximately 0.4 acre plot. Internal viewing highly recommended. EPC: D

Luxury living for the over 55’s. We have this superb 2 bedroom apartment which is located a short walk from the town centre and offers superb facilities. EPC: B

MORTIMERS WOULD LIKE TO WISH ALL OUR CUSTOMERS PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE A HAPPY CHRISTMAS AND NEW YEAR

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Christmas Looking for a Christmas recipe with a difference? Living In … asked Two Magpies Bakery to share one of their festive favourties

“

hese prune and pink peppercorn crispbreads make a great addition to a cheeseboard and the hole in the middle is traditional in Nordic countries where they would be baked and then stored by being suspended on wooden poles. The holes also make them perfect for threading a ribbon through and presenting as a lovely homemade gift,” says Rebecca Bishop of Two Magpies Bakery.

Prune & pink peppercorn sourdough crispreads Makes 14 medium sized crackers You can feed your sourdough starter to make enough for the recipe or use any discarded starter you have in your fridge. If you don’t have a sourdough starter follow the yeasted* version – the sour flavour won’t be quite as pronounced but they’ll still be delicious.

TOTAL FORMULA n 160 gms wholemeal rye flour n 100 gms white bread flour

30 gms Sourdough Culture n1 n 120 gms Water - cold n 5 gms flaky sea salt n 40 gms Soft dried prunes n 1 tsp Pink peppercorns

On a chopping board use the side of a sharp kitchen knife to crush and flatten the pink peppercorns. Chop the prunes up into small pieces and combine with the crushed peppercorns. Add the ﬂaky sea salt and use the same knife to chop and crush the paste – it’s important that there are no pieces larger than 1mm otherwise you can’t roll your crackers out thinly enough. Combine the paste with all the remaining ingredients in a bowl and mix until no dry bits remain. The dough will be

quite stiff but will soften slightly as the sourdough ferments. Cover the bowl and leave in a cool place for 12-16 hours. The next day prepare a couple of baking sheets with parchment paper and pre-heat your oven to 170°c. Divide the dough into 40 g pieces and shape into balls. Generously flour your counter and the top of each ball with wholemeal rye flour. Keep flouring and turning the dough as you roll to create a disc approximately 16cm diameter and 1-2mm thick. Cut out the centre of each disc using a 3cm round cutter (a metal screw cap bottle top works well too). Lay each dough circle onto a baking tray (they can be quite close as they won’t spread at all) and use the blunt end of a wooden kebab stick (or similar sized implement) to press deep holes into the crispbread. This helps the dough to dry out whilst baking but looks decorative too. Bake for approximately 10 minutes then carefully turn them over to bake for another 5/10 minutes until lightly browned then slide the crispbreads off the baking tray (and paper) onto the metal racks of the oven. Turn the oven temperature down to 150°c and bake for another 10-15 minutes. Make sure they are all fully crisped - leave any pale crispbreads in the oven a little bit longer than the others - when under baked they will remain chewy even when cool. When baking is complete leave the crispbreads in the (turned off) oven with the door left slightly open for a few hours or overnight. Once fully crisp and cooled store in a dry airtight container. They should keep well for a couple of weeks or longer.

A family owned business, Two Magpies Bakery specialises in sourdough, long fermented breads, hand laminated pastries, cakes, cookies and savoury treats. Rebecca Bishops says: “Our talented chefs and bakers use quality raw ingredients at our on-site bakery. We started life in Southwold in 2012 and now have shops and cafes in Aldeburgh and Darsham too, which are all open seven days a week. We also make great sourdough pizza every Saturday night in Darsham and Southwold to eat-in or take-away.” l www.twomagpiesbakery.co.uk

l Yeast crispbread recipe – dissolve a tiny pinch of yeast in 120 gms of water then proceed in the same way as the sourdough recipe. This will then only make 10 crackers. Rebecca Bishop of Two Magpies Bakery

ISSUE ONE… SUMMER 2016

It’s a

wonderful life!

days now), I get to chat to them, and you would think that having a haircut or blow dry wouldn’t make much of a difference, particularly with what they’re going through, but it really does. It’s been an amazing experience for me, and has changed my whole perspective. “Mostly, it’s changed my appreciation – of my children, my husband and my work. But I also value my time a lot more. “Before, I had this view that unless I was really busy and rushing around then somehow I wasn’t successful. But meeting these people I realise that real success lies in having time for your family, time for yourself and your own wellbeing. I now try to live my best life and am not running around overlooking the important things. “My new outlook has had a knockon effect on my whole family too. “After all, you only get one chance at life and we should all be living our best possible version.”

airdresser Laura Middlemiss says volunteering her skills for St Elizabeth Hospice has not only helped improve the lives of patients but has fundamentally changed hers … for the best. “It’s been incredibly humbling,” says the mum-of-three. Laura says she first helped at the Ipswich-based hospice at Christmas three years ago but it wasn’t until her beloved friend and former boss, Patricia Moore, passed away there last June that she decided to offer her hairdressing skills on a more regular basis. “It felt like a calling,” says Laura, who runs Emilie Riley Hair. “If you’ve never been into a hospice you may well think it’s a depressing place but, honestly, St Elizabeth Hospice is actually full of life. Everyone is very smiley, friendly and welcoming and there’s a lot of warmth and support and the patients are just incredible. “Doing their hair (I go in every ten

l If you fancy volunteering for St Elizabeth Hospice, based at 565 Foxhall Road, Ipswich, call 01473 707016. To donate much-needed funds for this wonderful hospice, go to www.stelizabethhospice.org.uk l To see Laura’s hair skills, go to www.emilierileyhair.com or follow her on Insta on @emilierileyhair

Above: Laura Middlemiss finds fulfillment using her skills and salon experience to help others

Tuesday to Friday 9.30am–4pm Saturday 9am–4pm

Stunning, intimate dinners Delicious brunches and lunches Our food is innovative and exciting, sometimes comforting, sometimes exhilarating, always delightful. We use the best of seasonal Suffolk ingredients to lead our menus. We cook from scratch – we bake, ferment and cure in-house. We forage wild food ourselves. Find us in Gobbitts Yard, just off the Thoroughfare. Get in touch to discuss our Christmas menu.

eclectic and satisfying brunch and lunch

Thursday 7.30pm–10pm

comfort led peasant fare, set menu, slowcooked meat, pies, vegetable hotpots, fine wines, warming and deeply tasty

Friday & Saturday 7.30pm–10pm

foraged and fine, exquisite small plates to share or keep to yourself, vegetable-only and meat, fish and game-based dishes

Sunday 10am–2pm

Lazy Breakfast, fun and laid back, indulgent and restorative breakfast treats and drinks The Cooks Shed, 14 Gobbitts Yard, Woodbridge IP12 1DD Tel: 01394 446019 www.thecooksshed.co.uk Private dining

Off-site catering

Private hire

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Living in … Travel

Fancy getting away from it all? Here’s our pick of the best … My favourite holiday …

“Last summer we had the best holiday we’d had in years and the furthest we got to from Suffolk was … Norfolk! Put off by all the Brexit talk, with fears of being stranded somewhere abroad, we decided to have a series of days out and probably one of the best we had as a family was taking a boat out on the Norfolk Broads. The kids loved it and I don’t think I’ve laughed so much, particularly when my husband thought it would be a good idea to steer it under some trees to protect us from the driving rain and we managed to get stuck! You can’t put a price on precious memories like that.” Anita Haywood, Felixstowe l To book your fun-filled family holiday on the Norfolk Broads, call Waterways Holidays on 01252 796400 or go to www.waterwaysholidays.com

Rock the Kasbah!

Wish you could tear the kids (and yourself) away from those ever-isolating screens? How about staying in a Berber castle with panoramic views of the magical Atlas Mountains? No TVs, no stress, just wall-to-wall beauty and great weather. At Kasbah Angour you can breathe again as you explore this beautiful region which feels a world away from the hustle and bustle of Marrakech, just 30 minutes away. The High Atlas range is known for its dramatic mountain peaks covered in snow for much of the year, its beautiful tucked away Berber villages and biodiversity. As the original inhabitants of Morocco, the indigenous Berber people are one of the oldest cultures in Africa and renowned for their hospitality. One such Berber village situated in the mountain foothills is Tahanaout where Kasbah Angour is located. Highlights of this unique, independent hotel include the delicious Moroccan home-grown cooking and the wealth of guided walks around Berber villages as well as the nearby national park and local markets. Guests can also enjoy camel rides and excursions to Marrakech. Boasting 25 individually designed

bedrooms and suites, the castle is set within ten jaw-dropping acres including a kitchen garden bursting with olives, pomegranates and figs to name but a few. The large outdoor pool is the perfect place to unwind and take in the beauty of the place. The team at Kasbah Angour is mostly made up of Moroccan Berbers whilst owner is Briton, Paul Foulsham, who opened the hotel in 2011 with a mission to offer a traditional atmosphere coupled with modern luxuries. The dinner menu changes daily and is reasonably priced with three courses priced at 255 DH (around £20) whilst children under 12 enjoy half price meals. Moroccan wines are increasingly popular (the country produces a surprising amount) and Paul and his team have searched out some exceptional wines. The low humidity in the Atlas Mountains makes this a wonderful destination throughout the year. There is no noise or light pollution and with rooms starting at just £113 a night, chances are you will sleep very well! Fly to Marrakech with Ryanair, BA , Easyjet or Air Arabia Maroc.

Are You Cruise Ready?

Start the New Year with some Caribbean sunshine, take a cruise and set sail from Barbados on a fantastic journey around the Caribbean. Soak up all of the culture and picturesque views whilst island hopping destinations such as Grenada, Saint Lucia, Antigua, Bonaire, St Vincent, Dominica and more. With prices starting from £1449 per person for a 14 night cruise with flights from London you could have an amazing winter sun getaway. l Call Cruise Ready on 01394 799179. Or email team@cruiseready.co.uk

l For more information go to www.kasbahangour.com ISSUE ONE… SUMMER 2016

Country living can be tranquil… …but life’s never dull at Allonsfield House

Allonsfield House, Campsea Ashe, Woodbridge, Suffolk, IP13 0PX We provide the following key services, Residential care

Dementia care

Call us today on 01728-885634 or visit allonsfieldhouse.care

Respite care

Healthcare

Business as usual

Brothers Ali (left) and Said, caring about the food they serve

market hill menswear Having opened its Woodbridge store on Market Hill in August, menswear store Uniform Research hasn’t looked back. Owner Dan Le Sauvage says: “I’ve had the store on Queen Street in Ipswich for the last 14 years and so it’s been exciting to expand, take on a new venture, meet new customers and be welcomed into a new business community.” With brands including Carhartt, Edwin, Novesta, Universal Works and Veja trainers, Uniform Research’s customer base ranges from 20 years to 70. “Offering a range of clothing to meet such a diverse demographic is what we thrive on. Our Woodbridge customers are very discerning, and this gives us the opportunity to seek out interesting brands and to evolve the business. “But with our price points there’s something for everyone, from a beanie under £20 or a t-shirt under £30 to more investment pieces such as jumpers and outerwear.” Committed to supporting sustainable brands wherever possible, Uniform Research has also launched its own denim programme. Dan explains:

volunteers needed Citizens Advice Leiston Saxmundham & District relies on volunteer advisers to provide the advice service used every year by hundreds of people living in coastal Suffolk. Without volunteers there would be no service. And now it needs you. “You never go home feeling that you have wasted your time,” says one of the Citizens Advice Leiston, Saxmundham and District volunteers on

“We ask people who’ve bought jeans with us over the years to return them when they’re no longer wearing them, and we give them a percentage of the purchase price on a store card to spend with us. Their jeans are then repaired, reworked and resold enabling customers to purchase great quality denim at a fraction of a price and reducing what goes to landfill.” l New website launching soon... uniformresearch.co.uk Check out @uniformresearch on all social media platforms

Dan Le Sauvage

being asked about the rewards of his role. Manager of the Leiston service, Martin Jones, explains: “Whatever your background, education and experience you have a wealth of valuable talent which can be harnessed to help and advise. “Spend a morning in the Leiston office and you will be confronted with a vast array of issues: spiralling debt, family and relationship breakdown, distraught victims of fraud,

passion for good food A passion for producing great food often runs in families; the Roux brothers are a good example. A less well-known but equally passionate sibling combination from East Anglia is embracing a challenge to bring star-rated restaurant service to care homes. The Guenaoui brothers – Ali and Said – began working with chefs across Suffolk-based Kingsley Healthcare Group, inspiring them with new recipe ideas and creative ways of serving dishes. Ali, 55, is hospitality manager at Kingsley Healthcare and says: “We already have some very skilled chefs working in Kingsley homes. My role is to inspire them and take their menus and food presentation to the next level. “The mealtime experience is so important in care homes and achieving excellence in this area is an important

stepping stone in progressing towards an outstanding CQC rating.” Ali and his brother both started their careers as chefs in five-star hotels in their Morocco homeland and now the brothers have teamed up again at Kingsley. As part of their mission to make mealtimes more exciting, the duo hosted an international experience with Mediterranean and North African flavours at Allonsfield House care home, in Campsea Ashe near Woodbridge. “Our aim is to make lunchtime a restaurant experience for residents with real attention to detail, from polished cutlery to good service, and high-quality food made from fresh produce. “We want our residents to enjoy their food and our chefs to put passion into what they do.” l For Kingsley Healthcare info: www.kingsleyhealthcare.co.uk

confused benefit claimants, employment problems, consumer problems, housing problems. These are just a few of the many questions brought to the office each week. “Our advisers are not expected to know all the answers, or indeed any, off the top of their heads. New volunteers take part in a training programme which over a period of time teaches them to use the Citizens Advice database, an information system managed and used by

Citizens Advice throughout the country. The trick is not to know the answers, but to know how to find them.” Based in Leiston, the service also offers outreach sessions, conducted by volunteers, in Woodbridge, Wickham Market, Framlingham, Saxmundham and several of the smaller villages. Interested in finding out more? Call Martin on 01728 832193 or email bureau@ leistoncab.cabnet.org.uk to arrange an appointment, meet the volunteers and staff, and to discuss how you can help. ISSUE ONE… SUMMER 2016

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adverse possession q (Or Squatters’ rights) A review on this thorny aspect of law …

re you able to claim ownership of that piece of land you’ve been maintaining for years? You might be able to apply to HM Land Registry to register land in your name through a legal mechanism called ‘adverse possession’ (or, colloquially, ‘squatters rights’). What you need to prove your case for adverse possession depends on: 1. Whether the land is registered or unregistered at HM Land Registry. 2. When your period of occupation began. Most land in Suffolk is registered, which means it is listed on the central register

the exclusion of the rest of the world, for example by fencing off the land in question and preventing anyone else access.

maintained by HM Land Registry and that shows who owns the land. If the land is unregistered, there is no electronic record and ownership is instead proven by who is named on the dusty old deeds. If you want to find out whether land is registered or unregistered just ask us and we can find out for you. Whether the land is registered or unregistered and when your period of occupation began will determine the length of time you will need to show you’ve been in occupation. In either case, what you need to prove remains broadly similar. The key points are: n Factual possession. You must be able to establish a single and exclusive possession of the land. This requires you to have treated the land as your own to

n An intention to possess. This requires you to show that you have had an intention to possess the land. This could be demonstrated by cultivating the land or simply maintaining it. If you think you may be able to make a claim for adverse possession or if someone is claiming against your land, please feel free to contact us at any time.

10 Riverside Framlingham Woodbridge IP13 9AG T: 01728 724 737 W: www.fairweatherlaw.co.uk E: jpringle@fairweatherlaw.co.uk

A wealth of expertise on your doorstep Based in Woodbridge, I provide a comprehensive wealth management service, offering specialist face-to-face advice tailored to you. My services include: • Investment Planning • Retirement Planning • Inheritance Tax Planning • Long Term Care For further details please contact:

Claire Rowell Tel: 01394 389 369 Email: claire.rowell@sjpp.co.uk www.sjpp.co.uk/clairerowell The Partner is an Appointed Representative of and represents only St. James’s Place Wealth Management plc (which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority) for the purpose of advising solely on the group’s wealth management products and services, more details of which are set out on the group’s website www.sjp.co.uk/products. H2SJP33247 09/19

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a Natural you for

2020

f finding time for yourself and improving both your physical and emotional wellbeing is top of your agenda for 2020, then The Natural Health Centre is the perfect place to kick-start your resolution. The centre offers a wide variety of therapies, all structured to help you feel and look good. If you are unsure as to which particular therapy would be most beneficial, then free 15minute consultations are available. If fitting in a visit is a problem, many therapists offer early evening and Saturday appointments. All the therapists at the centre, located in Woodbridge’s busy Thoroughfare, are fully qualified and fully insured.

he Natural Health Centre T T: 01394 380580 24A The Thoroughfare E: info@nhcwoodbridge.co.uk Woodbridge W: www.nhcwoodbridge.co.uk F: facebook.com/The-Natural-Health-Centre-Woodbridge Suffolk IP12 1AQ

Dr Karen Gallie

gift vouchers

Aesthetic dermatologist

Why not treat the person in your life to a Natural Health Centre voucher this Christmas? Sold in multiples of £10, the vouchers are redeemable against treatments from any of our therapists.

Jamie Symons Personal development coach

Make an appointment to meet one of our health specialists today

Jamie is a certified personal development coach, which means he has extensively studied coaching and adult development. Coaching is a wonderful opportunity for clients to take a deep breath and tackle issues that can feel too difficult for them to tackle on their own. He helps people understand the possibilities there are in life and work – to see what they can’t always see for themselves, and take action accordingly. The coaching programmes are tailormade to clients’ needs and what they want to achieve and, as Jamie says: “I’m happy to say, they get results.” www.act1developmentcoaching.co.uk or call 07985 119775.

The Natural Health Centre is pleased to introduce Dr. Karen Gallie to its team of health professionals. A qualified, experienced aesthetic dermatologist, Karen is leading the way in ‘no scalpel’ facial rejuvenation. A passion to help her clients to look their absolute best in a natural way has driven Karen to research, and find, the most advanced cosmetic techniques to restore a more youthful look without a scalpel in sight. A deep understanding of facial anatomy and of the ageing process has also given her an unrivalled ability to provide clients with effective and safe treatments, offering a unique opportunity to maximise beauty potential in a natural rather than an artificial way. Dr Gallie’s clinical skills also extend to effectively treating common skin problems such as acne, rosacea, scarring, pigmentation, thread veins and skin tags using award-winning clinically-based treatment solutions. Dr. Gallie is at the NHC once a month. Book now for a free consultation on Saturday, December 14th. ISSUE ONE… SUMMER 2016

a Natural you for

2020

at the natural health centre Helen Parsons Allergy therapist

Helen qualified to teach food studies and nutrition, she is a registered allergy therapist and member of The British Institute for Allergy and Environmental Therapy. Over 50 substances are tested; vitamin, mineral deficiencies and imbalances in the endocrine system are also checked as these can contribute to the symptoms you may be experiencing. Symptoms may include tiredness, low energy, mood swings, poor concentration, asthma, eczema, migraines, catarrh, IBS, thrush, cystitis, PMT, insomnia, difficulty losing weight.

Susannah Brindle Psychotherapist

An experienced psychotherapist and counsellor, Susannah Brindle has 15 years’ experience within the NHS and private sectors. She offers a confidential, nonjudgemental space in which to explore difficulties and stuck patterns that may have their roots in the past but affect the present. The safe, sharing space helps shift stress, anxiety and depression. Susannah is registered with the UK Council for Psychotherapy (UKCP), The Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) and is a member of the Humanistic and Integrative Psychotherapy College. All calls are confidential. www.psychotherapyinsuffolk.com or call 07833 191041

Steve Kippax Paul Lacey Osteopath

A qualified osteopath, Paul works with clients to correct problems in the body frame, making it easier for the body to function normally and to reduce the chance of problems occurring in the future. His specific areas of interest include posture/scoliosis, frozen shoulder, sports injury recovery and foot mechanics. Working with teenagers through to those in their 90s, Paul has been practicing for ten years and offers appointments most weekdays with evening appointments available by arrangement. ISSUE ONE… SUMMER 2016

Acupuncturist & herbal medicine

Traditional Chinese medicine specialist Steve offers treatments including Chinese herbal medicine, acupuncture, diet therapy, therapeutic Tui na massage, and Qi gong, a mind-body-spirt practice. A past president of the National Institute of Medical Herbalists, and member of the Association of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Steve has been practicing for 34 years, working with clients of all ages. Offering appointments on Mondays and Thursday afternoons, his first book, Health in Theory and Practice – circling the square, has just been published.

Carmen Zahra Holistic massage therapist, pregnancy and postnatal massage and remedial therapist

By carrying out a detailed consultation and listening to her clients, Carmen designs each massage around their particular needs on the day of their session. Treatments are deeply relaxing, restorative, therapeutic and healing and are carried out in a calming and nurturing environment. Carmen’s Level 4 diploma in holistic massage ensures clients are in the hands of an expert and her certificate in pregnancy and postnatal massage makes her well qualified to work with expecting mothers. She is also a certified infant massage instructor. Contact Carmen on 07708 094420

Izzy Ixer One-to-one yoga & coaching

With over 40 years’ teaching experience, Izzy offers clients one-to-one bespoke Hatha yoga and coaching sessions. As an Institute of Leadership & Management qualified coach and mentor, and a British Wheel of Yoga teaching diploma, she brings her coaching expertise to her yoga practice, providing clients with the coping skills for life and the techniques to find their own quiet space. Izzy works from the Natural Health Centre on Monday mornings.

Lucy Fe rgus

Counsellor, psychotherapist & hypnotherapist

Lucy works closely with her clients and their specific story, providing support and solutions for a range of issues including anxiety, stress, self-esteem and lifestyle. An accredited member of the National Counselling Society and the National Hypnotherapy Society, Lucy believes that all therapy is a journey and she guides, reassures and supports clients as they work towards solutions or changes. Also, she is happy to offer a safe place to come and talk to a nonjudgemental listener.

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Lorna Bailey

Lesley Sherlo ck Reiki specialist

Lesley is a natural empath, healer and intuitive reader. She specialises in Reiki healing and offers Usui Reiki, Reiki drum therapy and Angelic Reiki sessions. She also offers deeply relaxing fusion style sessions which can include a combination of Indian head massage, Reiki, and healing guidance with oracle cards. Reiki promotes healing on all levels of being: physical, mental, emotional and spiritual. A Reiki master teacher since 2009 (Japanese + western lineages), Lesley also teaches Reiki workshops from the centre. She is also undergoing training with Philip Permutt, The Crystal Healer, to offer crystal healing in 2020. www.roseheart-therapies.com 07724 598188

Steve Fawdry

Massage therapist, bodyworker & spiritual teacher

Offering massage therapy, energy balancing, sound healing and women’s spiritual development classes through her Body Sense & Woman Wise programme, Lorna brings over 25 years’ experience and training to clients seeking optimum health and wellbeing. A member of The Complementary Therapists Association and The Spiritual Workers Association, Lorna’s studies also involved a six-year apprenticeship with a native american medicine elder in New Mexico. Carrying full indemnity insurance, appointments are available most weekdays and Saturday mornings.

Wellness coaching

During the last 12 years, Steve has successfully helped over 600 young people and adults globally to improve conditions including ME/chronic fatigue syndrome (83% greatly improved), fibromyalgia, anxiety, depression and chronic pain through the unique BodyMind Programme. Working with Steve in one-to-one sessions, at the centre, by phone or Skype, you will learn practical strategies and techniques to retrain your mind and body, leading to a happier, healthier you. Call 07765 551939 for more details.

Linda Burley

Dr Jo Seely Clinical psychologist & cognitive behavioural therapist

Karen Smith Beautician

Experienced beauty therapist Karen specialises in facial and body treatments, luxury Dr. Jo Seely is an experienced manicure and pedicures, chartered clinical psychologist, eyelash and brow treatments BABCP accredited cognitive and Fake Bake tanning. behavioural psychotherapist Using antioxidant skin care (CBT) and behavioural couple range Vitage, which has been therapist. With many years’ developed to rejuvenate the experience, in the NHS and skin, Karen’s most popular privately, Jo uses evidencetreatments include a vitamin C based psychological therapy to revive facial and an advanced help adults overcome a range deep natural exfoliation of mental health difficulties, which improves hydration in complete confidence. Jo is and skin clarity. registered with all the major Offering treatments private health insurance on Thursdays (including companies. Please contact Jo appointments to 7pm), Fridays directly regarding availability and Saturdays. January offer – and fees (www.pptherapy.co.uk). facial and free manicure, £45.

Jane Garnham-Woods Reflexologist

A qualified reflexologist since 1992, Jane is a member of the Association of Reflexologists. Passionate about all the benefits the therapy offers – from helping with circulation problems, aiding sleep, boosting the immune system and increasing energy, reflexology involves pressure being applied to specific parts of the foot that correspond with areas of the body, enabling the body to be rebalanced. A great therapy for general wellbeing, reflexology appointments with Jane are available most days.

Counsellor, psychotherapist & hypnotherapist

An integrative counsellor, Linda works holistically with her clients. Supporting counselling clients with issues including anger management, bereavement, family and relationship problems, low self-esteem, stress and trauma, Linda also offers psychotherapy sessions for those with deep rooted issues, stress, anxiety and unwanted behavioural problems. Her hypnotherapy clients benefit from the power of suggestion to change habits and behaviours. Working with adults and young people, Linda is an accredited member of the National Counselling Society and the National Hypnotherapy Society. ISSUE ONE… SUMMER 2016

With a wealth of creative talent across the county, here’s news of some of the latest book launches, exhibitions and shows to seek out and enjoy ...

Art – the perfect Christmas gift From now until 5th January the Southwold Gallery (64a High Street) is hosting its Christmas exhibition and showcasing pieces from all its regular artists. With paintings from Kate Felton, Chris Williamson (whose Closing Time is pictured above), Jenni Cator and Stephanie Lamboune (the artist responsible for this issue’s fab and festive front cover), stained glass work, jewellery, etchings and more, the exhibition is a treasure trove of potential Christmas gifts. If you’re not planning to be in Southwold before Christmas, don’t worry as all pieces within the exhibition, with the exception of Dee Nicholson’s artwork (which can be purchased at the gallery or by calling 01502 723888), are available to purchase online at www.southwoldgallery.co.uk Further along the coast, the Aldeburgh Gallery (143 High Street) is hosting its Christmas Collective. Bringing together works from artists including honor Suri, Arabella Shand (whose work is pictured right) and Delia Tournay-Godfrey, there’s also stunning ceramics and a private view on 14th December 12 noon to 3pm with refreshments and a book signing by Annie Owen. A Christmas Collective runs from 12th December – 5th January. For a full list of participating artists, visit www. aldeburghgallery.co.uk

ISSUE ONE… SUMMER 2016

Dance Away So much more than a dance class facilitator and theatre venue, DanceEast, located on the waterfront at Ipswich, is unique in the region and nationally. From performances and offering support to Suffolkbased artists interested in sharing ideas, developing their choreographic practice and working collaboratively, to hosting the Choreographic Development Award (details of the 2020 award will be announced soon), the breadth of DanceEast‘s work really does put East Anglia on the map. As Lucy Bayliss, head of the creative programmes says: “We’re often considered a place to bring the kids for their weekly dance lesson, but we’re working hard to let Suffolk know everything else we do. For example, not many people understand that we are a charity and all our work is not for profit. We are one of only five hubs in the country partnering with English National Ballet and running classes for those suffering from Parkinson’s, along with their family and friends. And our BA (Hons) Dance programme is the first two year-work based dance degree in the UK. “We have also been pioneers in the development of high class productions for younger audiences. Chotto Desh, by the multi award winning Akram Khan Dance Company, was made and had its world premiere here in Ipswich in 2015. Since then, that production has had 345 performances to over 106,000 people in 84 cities. “With a national reputation, many of the companies that perform at DanceEast are at the top of their game and deliver innovative and ground-breaking performances. But we need to let people know more about everything we do and how they can get involved – either as participants or audiences. This is our mission for 2020 and we’d love for readers of Living In … to come and visit.” To find out more, visit www.danceeast.co.uk

Bob, Brel & Me Cited as “one of the best nightclub singers in the world” by Time Out New York, jazz and cabaret singer Barb Jungr heads to Snape Maltings on 25th January. Bringing her inimitable style to the songs of Bob Dylan and Jacques Brel, the show starts at 8pm in the Britten Studio. To book tickets visit www.snapemaltings.co.uk

Simple Pleasures Inspired by life’s everyday occurrences, 21-year-old Woodbridge-resident Sam Darr has published his first poetry anthology – How You Walk. He says of the 60-poem collection: “I’d always written articles, blogs and such, but writing poetry always ending up feeling a lot more personal. I could translate emotions and experiences into my work without worrying about whether it meant much to anyone else. It became a lot like therapy in harder times and it’s taught me a lot about myself. “This is my first book and it stems from a year of learning, reflecting and focusing on the simpler things in my life. I’ve found much more happiness now that I’ve stopped worrying about things I can’t change. I hope that comes across in this piece of work.” Complete with illustrations by Sam, How You Walk is available for £12.99 at New Street Market, Woodbridge, as well as online at: www.blurb.co.uk/b/9673330 -how-you-walk

Time and Timelessness The theme of Time and Timelessness is explored through philosophy, physics, theology, psychology, art, music, poetry, literature and film during a five-day symposium, starting on Wednesday 19th February, in Aldeburgh. Guest contributors already confirmed include Andrew Marr, who will be presenting his paintings about time, and Sarah Lucas and Julian Simmons, who will be screening their films presented as part of Alive in the Universe, at the 2019 Venice Biennale. Organiser Caroline Wiseman says: “This enigmatic subject is profoundly relevant to every aspect of our everyday lives, and this will be our emphasis during this very informative but fun and informal symposium.” Paintings by Regine Bartsch (Aldeburgh Beach, pictured) also form part of the event. Everyone is invited to participate with works of art, poems or haikus or one minute films on the theme of time and timelessness and should contact caroline@aliveintheuniverse.com for full details. Tickets are available from Caroline from early December and the symposium will be hosted at Aldeburgh Beach Lookout and Arthouse 31 Crag Path, Aldeburgh IP15 5BS Suffolk Inspired A true story read in Country Life magazine was the catalyst for Julia Adlard to put pen to paper and write ‘Domino the Miracle Dog.’ Julia explains: “The feature was all about a terrier getting stuck in a rabbit hole, and it reminded me of when I was a child, living in Suffolk, and I had a similar experience with my dog, which then had to be rescued.” Basing her story on Domino, a black and white dog who lives at Glemham Hall, Julia’s talent as an illustrator (Raymond Briggs was her tutor at university) can be seen throughout the book as her beautiful watercolours bring the story to life. A perfect Christmas gift for three to seven-year olds, ‘Domino the Miracle Dog’ is available from The Aldeburgh Book Shop and on Amazon.

The truth is in the trees Otley-based Amanda Marks is delighted to see her debut novel, The True, in print. She says: “During the day I run a long-haul travel company and for the last six years my evenings have been immersed in the landscapes of Northumberland and Durham, where I was born, and which are the backdrop to my story.” A tale of adventure, loss, love and belonging, Middle Wood plays a key role in this intriguing tale by seemingly linking disparate lives separated by almost three centuries. Available at the Woodbridge Emporium and Waterstones (£9.99), as well as online at Amazon and other retailers as an ebook (£3.99).

ISSUE ONE… SUMMER 2016

The Dogs Of

y Halpin photograph: by Luc

Christmas!

Hazel

“I’m a Roman ia live with my n street dog who came to hu last year and mans in Suffolk in spring ev of lucky I am, bu eryone tells my owners ho t w lucky ones. I’m they always insist they’re th sw e ee t an d playful and teensy bit of just a a diva too.”

In celebration of Suffolk Coastal’s cute canines, we have not one, but 12 perfect pooches for you to meet ....

Mickey

in Leiston. ue retriever living “I’m a gentle resc gs Do y ap er Th charity I volunteer for the lping at a he ly nt rre cu am I Nationwide and ar I will me. In the new ye local retirement ho al primary school to a loc also start visiting support.” ad re d an offer bark

Lydia

h and I’m a me Lydia Lunc /whippet lls ca um M y fy “M o-year-old staf r friendly little tw ridge who is never happie db r te oo Af W . ds om fr an s dl cros ing the woo or pl ex , ce I’m ur n y heat so than whe nap next to an that I like a long man or a hairdryer!” hu whether it be

Uno

“I’m six years ol from Kuwait d and came to Suffolk in 20 whe kind lady took re I lived on the streets. 18 A me to a char ity found my fore ver mum in H shelter who always asks; asketon. Ever ‘W yo legs but I’m bi hat IS he?’ I might have sh ne g on personal ort ity!”

Pepe

Trevor

ho won the n rescue dog w “I’m a Romania me to Suffolk, via Burnies ca in Melton. lottery when I y loving family w I’m m ith w e liv s but no charity, to shy and nervou nd At first I was so an when I’m bouncing arou th r ie r pp he never ha she runs xt to Mum as or curled up ne kvintagelighting.” ffol business @su

“I turn many he handsome lo ads in Woodbridge with my oks and calm an nature. I have worked with d friendly th Therapy and visited local sc e charity Pets as hools as a read dog. Christm as is a specia -to l ti my family as I was born on me for me and Christmas Ev e!”

geodbrid d is Wo He brought a D y m pot as ve Andrews. st 11 e he jack “I hit t og trainer St hen I was ju rained! I w d ia d ell t s e s s u a b om R excellently w h Dad and r f r e v wit me o ld and I’m t is my ing tug o weeks folk life; play at the Tea Hu f s love Su st afterward a f k a e r b t day.” perfec

Ruga

Nelly

“I’m a 23 week old Jac k Russell pup. I live in Snape with my fam ily who call me Naug hty Nelly. You might see me the coast sporting a b sashaying around omber jacket in Tilley & Grace’s signature pink colour. The owne r, Sally, my Mum, alway s makes sure all the T&G girls are on bra nd!”

Milo

er knows wheth cross. Nobody “I’m a rottie/lab was found wandering the I In I’m five or six as n into kennels. stowe and take streets of Felix forever home. Nowadays I y as 2015 I found m pi Days creche head off to Hap love it when I ts of my excess energy and lo I get to run off y best canine buds!” m hang out with

Woody

und pup who “I’m a smashing little dachsh Blue Cross in the by ed om reh ntly was rece forever friend a for g kin Ipswich. If you’re loo d not just for (an r yea new the in e to rehom great bunch the for ch Christmas), I can vou !” from ose cho to s of dog

Flash

Shurbert

I’m a schnauzer an d I’m a distinguish ed of 13 years. Mum runs She Sells Seas gent he Felixstowe and sh e often uses me as lls in a model on social m ed my selection of bo ia as I cut a fine dash in w ties. I really ough t to start charging a fe e but payment in treats works well too!”

“I’m a two ye ar Grange Farm -old French bulldog from . Mum and D ad baby and I lik e being the ce call me their ntre of their universe. As you can see, I’m rather a handsome re ga nothing mor l-looking chap and I love e than posing for a photo.”

Suffolk’s longest running 5 Star Crèche

As December gets underway we are getting very excited about Christmas here at Happi Days. We have blankets and beds galore in our heated creche to keep our canine guests warm and cosy this winter. There is also plenty planned, including a pawjama day, Christmas parties and much more! Let your dogs fulfil their potential with stimulating, action-packed days or a holiday of activities, friends and interactive fun and games. Plus, there’s our large indoor play halls, cosy sofa rooms and private fenced woodland area for them to enjoy. At our Martlesham Centre, we offer hydro and physiotherapy sessions, as well as leisure swims with Lisa. Get in touch to arrange an appointment for you and your dog!

Martlesham: 01473 623 661

www.happidayscentre.co.uk

Rendlesham: 01394 420 468

One-to-One Training | Behaviour Modification | Product Sales

Contact Steve on 07799 777049, email andrews66@btinternet.com or visit the website at steveandrewsdogtrainer.com

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lifetimeof experience! It’s a real family affair at Deben Carpets & Flooring …

The third generation of his family in this line of work, Chris owns and runs Deben Carpets & Flooring with wife Rachel

t was the very sweetest of Suffolk childhoods. Hazy summer days spent bobbing around on a boat on the River Deben with his beloved grandad. For Chris Bixby, those precious memories went on to inspire the name behind his hugely popular company, Deben Carpets & Flooring, which he set up in 2012 and now runs with wife Rachel. And even though his Grandad Patrick has since passed away, he says Grandma Eileen is very proud. “Not least because they were in the business too,” smiles Chris. “They ran the Carpet & Flooring Centre in Ipswich, near Northgate High School, for many, many years. My mum and auntie went on to run it and I helped out. When it closed, I started out on my own in my van.”

“My grandad would be so proud …” As a sole trader, Chris says he landed some prestigious contracts. He was the Suffolk contractor laying carpets and flooring for John Lewis, until he got so busy he decided to take the plunge and open up Deben Carpets & Flooring at Betts Avenue on Martlesham’s busy retail park. The company has been busy supplying and fitting flooring in Ipswich, Woodbridge and further afield in Suffolk. In the last seven years he’s seen the company grow tremendously and it now boasts a tenstrong team. Chris’s mum Karen also works part-time at the company, which stocks a terrific range of carpets and flooring, many on display at its newly extended premises. “I’ve had a lifetime of experience in the

business!” he says. “I remember as a wee lad, three or four years old, sitting around the dinner table at Christmas with the adults all talking about flooring. It’s been in my head from such a young age. My mum Karen has some 45 years’ experience in the business. And Chrissy, who runs our showroom full-time at Martlesham, also has bags of experience. We pride ourselves on our collective knowledge in the industry. I think it’s one of the things that sets us apart, that and the fact we invest a lot in staff training. Our installers are mostly all employed by us and are put on new courses every year to a European standard. “We heavily invest in our people, so that they’re always improving their skills and can offer certain talents that others can’t, like bending stripes on stairs, hand cutting motifs, and border work in carpets – all the high end stuff. That is what our customers have come to expect from us.” Chris’s wife Rachel runs the business side of things, doing the books and marketing, which completes the family firm. The newly wed couple have just recently enjoyed a honeymoon. So what are their best sellers? “Flooring-wise our biggest sellers are our lovely range of wool carpets, because they’re extremely hard wearing, plus our luxury vinyl tiles (or LVT) which come in funky designs,” says Chris. “The wool carpets start from £19 per metre going right up to £125pm and there’s a vast amount available depending on what kind of look, feel and touch you’re after. Our luxury vinyl tiles start at £23pm, going up to £90pm.” And any trends for 2020? “We have noticed this year a shift from striped carpets to patterned carpets, particularly geometric designs. Colourwise, mustard and claret are in again –

it’s funny how things go full circle! And with the flooring, we’re seeing lots more requests for a traditional look like the Victorian monochrome tile look and herringbone parquet,” adds Chris. Whether you are looking for a new wool, stain-free, or natural wall-to-wall carpet, Deben Carpets & Flooring guarantees its hands-on and highly experienced team will install and finish your new flooring to perfection. With such a wealth of experience behind them, we are sure they will be leading the market for many more years to come.

l To book an appointment or to discuss your flooring requirements, call 01473 626097. For more information, go to www.debencarpetsandflooring.co.uk

ISSUE ONE… SUMMER 2016

events

The Snow Queen

Local home owners… throw open their doors Child free zones?… meet the couple with the Parent Pod! Is grey just so last year?… Jojo Humes Brown on colours

YOUR BRAND NEW FREE HOMES & LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

Aldeburgh Jubilee Hall, Crabbe Street Friday, 27th – Tuesday, 31st December This reinvigorated telling of the Hans Christian Andersen fairy tale first published in 1844 is set to dazzle. With the addition of choreography and music as well as sleighs, bandits, helpful reindeer and even a wise old crow, The Snow Queen is a magical story of loyalty, bravery and love. Tickets can be purchased at www.aldeburghjubileehall. co.uk or from Aldeburgh Cinema box office on 01728 454884 (Monday – Saturday, 10am – 1pm). For times and prices, visit www.mtproductions.co.uk

out

Reaching New Heights

Clip ‘n Climb, The Havens, Ipswich IP3 9ST Looking for an adrenalin rush that everyone can enjoy? The first purpose-built centre of its kind in the UK, Clip ‘n Climb Ipswich, may well fit the bill. The centre, located just off the A14, offers 42 unique climbing challenges of varying difficulty, making it suitable for all ages and experience levels, as well as a new soft play area for younger visitors. With safety paramount, a pre-climbing safety and harnessing briefing is compulsory for everyone before every climb. There’s a Paddy & Scott’s cafe too for spectators. ipswich.clipnclimb.co.uk

Maritime Movies

The Longshed, Tide Mill Way, Woodbridge Friday, 17th – Sunday, 19th January 2020 The three-day Maritime Film Festival is all about celebrating yachting and maritime films. With titles including Maiden (pictured) and the 1979 spy thriller Riddle of the Sands, the movies will be screened in the Longshed on the waterfront at Woodbridge, with each film accompanied by a talk or short film. Tickets can be purchased for individual films or the full festival. Go to www.eventbrite.co.uk and search for ‘Maritime’.

and about!

With so much to do this time of year, here are our top tips Christmas Dip

Felixstowe and Southwold seafronts Wednesday, 25th December Get your Christmas Day off to a bracing start with a dip in the North Sea and raise money for charity… This year is the 16th Felixstowe Christmas Day Dip in aid of St Elizabeth Hospice. Around 500 dippers of all ages will take part, with the fun starting on the Felixstowe seafront, opposite Mannings Amusements, from 8.30am – 11am.

Register on the day from 8.30am – 9.45am, or sign up in advance at www.stelizabethhospice.org.uk/dip If you live in or around Southwold, the Christmas Day Swim takes place at 10:30am on the beach just below Gun Hill. With over 100 brave swimmers usually taking part, registration costs £5 and funds raised this year will benefit the Southwold RNLI and Scotty’s Little Soldiers. If the North Sea is not for you, come along and support family and friends. For full details and to register, visit www.southwoldrotary.co.uk/swim

Festive Falconry

ISSUE ONE… SUMMER 2016

Framlingham Castle Saturday, 28th – Sunday, 29th December Witness graceful hawks and glorious falcons in flight as expert falconers demonstrate the art of training, exercising and hunting with birds. Hear how food was caught for the Christmas dinner table while these amazing creatures swoop overhead. Demonstrations are from 11am – 3pm but please note, bird species is subject to change. www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/ framlingham-castle/events