Places&Faces 125 November

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Issue No: 125 | November 2020

N or folk & Suf folk

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Gourmet Gossip Something for the Weekend Suffolk Coast & Heaths AONB Tried & Tasted Fashion

Welcome It’s official...

I have started. My friends and family groan and roll their eyes when they find out I have already gotten my Christmas shopping underway.

Seventeen items purchased and tucked away in my secret present hiding place; the bottom of my wardrobe is indeed slowly turning in to an Aladdin’s cave of gifts, a smorgasbord of shopping. I have of course gathered the customary array of Playstation games to keep the tech crazy children happy, and ultimately entertained, on the 25th and beyond. However for the more discerning recipients on my gifting radar I have endeavoured to make sure I keep it local. This year, more than ever, it is important to support local shops and businesses. It is so easy to browse and buy from anywhere that we can often miss some great products which are right on our doorstep, or a present that would mean even more to that special someone because of its local story. With not much extra effort you can go from gift average to gift awesome.

Quality, not quantity is the mantra you should be singing as you buy those all important presents. Check out pages 41 and 42 in this month’s shop local feature, packed full of local suppliers ready to put a smile on those faces come Christmas morning. Get organised, get local and get the present shopping done early this year... then all you have to worry about is the wrapping.

Next on the list Gift’s I’ve got my eye on...

49 30

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13

@PlacesandFacesMagazines @PlacesandFaces @PlacesandFaces

CONTRIBUTORS: Andrew Hirst, Carl Lamb, Carolyn Atkins, Kate Morefoot, Jade Soanes, Julie Handforth-Doidge, Mel Cook, Dr Ryan Taylor, Tracey Wilkinson, Visit Norfolk, Visit Suffolk, www.suffolkcoastandheaths.org ADVERTISING SALES Dean Brown - Sales Director T: 01502 725835 M: 07936 946449 E: dean.brown@micropress.co.uk

Laura Munnings T: 01502 725866 E: laura.munnings@micropress.co.uk

DESIGN AND PRODUCTION Andrew Hirst T: 01502 725860 E: andrew.hirst@micropress.co.uk

Mark Shreeve T: 01502 725839 E: mark.shreeve@micropress.co.uk

Chloe Miller T: 01502 725844 M: 07753 377724 E: chloe.miller@micropress.co.uk

Rob Fosbrook T: 01502 725876 M: 07780 430706 E: rob.fosbrook@micropress.co.uk

Jade Soanes T: 01502 725840 E: jade.soanes@micropress.co.uk

Polly Coleman T: 01502 725800 E: polly.coleman@micropress.co.uk

Sinead Taylor T: 01502 725865 E: sinead.taylor@micropress.co.uk

Published by COUNTRYWIDE PUBLICATIONS

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Printed by MICROPRESS PRINTERS LTD

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TERMS & CONDITIONS Copyright on all content is with Countrywide Publications. Reproduction in part or whole is forbidden without the express permission of the publishers. All prices, events and times were correct at the time of print, and you are encouraged to contact the businesses and venues prior to making bookings. All expressions and opinions demonstrated within the publication, are those of the Publisher including contributors. Places&Faces® is a registered Trade Mark of Micropress Printers Ltd. COUNTRYWIDE PUBLICATIONS IS A TRADING NAME OF MICROPRESS PRINTERS LTD.

The competition is open to residents of the United Kingdom aged 18 years or over except employees of Micropress Printers Ltd and their close relatives and anyone otherwise connected with the organisation or judging of the competition. There is no entry fee and no purchase necessary to enter this competition. Only one entry will be accepted per person. No responsibility can be accepted for entries not received for whatever reason. The prize is as stated and no cash or other alternatives will be offered. The prizes are not transferable. Prizes are subject to availability and we reserve the right to substitute any prize with another of equivalent value without giving notice. Winners will be chosen at random, from all entries received. The winner will be notified by email, telephone or social media. If the winner cannot be contacted or does not claim the prize within 1 month of notification, we reserve the right to withdraw the prize from the winner. Any personal data relating to the winner or any other entrants will be used solely in accordance with current UK data protection legislation and will not be disclosed to a third party without the entrant’s prior consent. Entry into the competition will be deemed as acceptance of these terms and conditions.

CONTENTS

55

47

50

17

14

64

30

Photo: Gill Moon

37

7 8 11 13 14 17 21 22 25 27

38

Something for the weekend Visit Norwich Discover...

Books Celebrity bottom draw Suffolk Coast & Heaths AONB Fab 5 Gourmet gossip Caistor Hall Hotel The Good, the Bad and the Hungry 29 Countdown to Christmas 30 Tried and tasted tipples 33 What’s going on your table?

35 Royal Norwich 37 Stollen our hearts 38 Leftover lunch 41 Love local 44 Competition 47 Fashion 53 Beauty 55 Tech support / Be Appy 56 Jarrolds 59 JHD Interiors 61 Ask Angela 63 Financial advice 64 Sandy Balls 66 A job less ordinary Recipes on pages 31, 35, 37 and 38

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The Weekend

Going out Event

Thursford Enchanted Journey of Light | 19 November-3 January Sadly, Thursford’s Christmas Spectacular is cancelled this year, but fear not – there’s a new event to safely enjoy in its place that will get you into the festive spirit just as much. Thursford’s Enchanted Journey of Light promises to be a magical walkthrough experience for all ages, featuring an indoor Wonderland Trail. A maze of engines, fairy-tale characters and an immersive experience of light and sound – including one of the UK’s biggest kinetic light displays – will lead outside to a 4-acre Lantern Light Extravaganza. This beautiful festival of luminous sculptures will take you from a fantasy forest of jungle animals to the wilds of the North Pole.

Tickets are £15 each (free for under 3 years), with time slots allocated from 3pm daily via the Thursford Box O�ice (www.thursford.com or 01328 878477).

Here at Places & Faces HQ we’ve been busy choosing our top picks for safely going out or snuggling up inside this November. Here’s what’s happening locally and on your TV screen this month…

Staying in Watch

The Crown, season four 15 November Netflix’s content crown jewels, at last The Crown is back to reign supreme and provide us with yet more biographical drama, stunning sets and meticulously accurate costumes.

Season four is likely to bring us into the 1980s and early 90s, a memorably tumultuous time for the royal family, and will see us meeting Diana, Princess of Wales (played by newcomer Emma Corrin) and the formidable Margaret Thatcher (played by the frankly far too sexy Gillian Anderson). Per tradition, Olivia Coleman will reprise the role of Queen Elizabeth for the final time, before being succeeded by Imelda Staunton for the last two seasons.

Get practising your curtsies and yes ma’am’s, this looks set to be a binge-worthy watch.

Eat

Gnaw Chocolate Bars

Wear

There’s a definite nip in the air now we’re into November, so if you’ll be venturing out there’s nothing like a colourful knitted bobble hat to keep your head toasty and warm (not to mention the fact they hide a multitude of hair-related sins). This cheerful Joules Thurley knitted bobble hat from Jarrold features a faux fur pom pom, with matching gloves also available.

£19.95 | www.jarrold.co.uk

Norwich-based Gnaw offer handcrafted, ethical chocolate in beautifully illustrated, compostable packaging, so you can enjoy a sweet treat completely guilt-free. Indulgent flavours range from classic smooth Milk Chocolate and Banoffee Pie to Organic Peanut Butter, Almond & Biscuit or Raspberry Crisp.

There are also No Added Sugar, Vegan and Made Without Gluten bars available too... the perfect companion to a cosy night in with a boxset.

From £2.99 per 100g bar www.gnawchocolate.co.uk

Drink Cocktail Canaries

Fancy a cocktail in the comfort of your own home but don’t want the hassle of sourcing all the ingredients yourself? That’s where Cocktail Canaries come in – choose from a range of ready to pour and serve flavours including Norfolk Berry Bramble, Salted Caramel Espresso Martini and Mango Margarita (for Norfolk residents) or Honeycomb Old Fashioned, Jaffa Cake Negroni and – our personal recommendation if you’ll be tuning into The Crown – Her Majesty’s Iced Tea (for nationwide customers). The bottles or ecofriendly refill pouches will then be posted to your door ready for an evening on the sofa.

From £18 | www.cocktailcanaries.co.uk 07

m e t i d e t c e Unexp in the

It’s fair to say Christmas is going to look a bit different this year says Melanie Cook of VisitNorwich

H

ow many of you noticed Christmas messages slipping into your email inboxes and displays in stores in September? I for one certainly did.

And it seemed earlier than usual. But then really, what is usual this year?

Planning has been a real thing we have had to do as we’ve come out of lockdown.

Gone are the days (albeit temporarily we hope) of a spontaneous trip to an attraction or restaurant. Domestic holidays and short breaks are being booked as we speak for 2021. Covid-19 has come along, and we’ve had to think differently.

Now more than ever we are in a situation where we really, really need to support our high streets and local businesses. And I for one believe this Christmas is our opportunity to discover the retailers and

08

bagging area

stores that are literally on our doorstep.

Now is the time to shop locally, not just in bricks and mortar but also locally online.

I absolutely love getting into stores. I’ve never been a huge online shopper. I like to see the quality of what’s on offer, what products are made of – I actually really like browsing, not shopping for something in particular. In my book whenever I’ve been out looking for something, knowing what I want – I can never find it. Yet when I’m browsing, I see gifts for everyone in the family, it’s like my mind is positively open to all the possibilities.

The Norwich Lanes, The Cathedral Quarter, Magdalen Street and The Royal Arcade are areas in Norwich packed full of independent shops, from second-hand bookstores, antiques and modern art to

hand-made jewellery, ceramics and Norfolk made crafts. There are delis, collectables, gin, whisky and beer made in Norfolk, plants, lifestyle and boutiques. Norwich market is also a great place to do some Christmas shopping. Take my word for it, have a mooch around.

Community is also at the heart of shopping locally. Shop keepers and staff play an important role. I’m a talker, I love to have a chat when I’m at the till or ask questions whilst I’m wandering around.

People working in shops are so easily ignored but building a rapport whilst shopping can take your conversation in all manner of directions and it’s what we like doing – conversing – we are social animals.

One of the things we have missed about lockdown is each other. A connection in person is a good thing. A powerful thing. A conversation can change our mood – make it lighter, it gives us opportunity to respond to body language and enjoy interaction.

Something that is missing online.

But we mustn’t dismiss online – it’s about balance and circumstance. If you’re not

Out&About

Now more than ever we are in a situation where we really, really need to support our high streets and local businesses.

And I for one believe this Christmas is our opportunity to discover the retailers and stores that are literally on our doorstep. ready to get out or cannot for any reason, you can still shop locally online. Most independent retailers will have a website or at the very least a Facebook page for more information on stock and how to buy. And most will have a telephone number you can call on if you have questions.

CJ’s Fruit and Veg on Norwich Market came into their own as lockdown came into effect. They were one of the last stalls on the market to shut up shop. But not before launching a new delivery service and online store. And I’m delighted to say they’ve expanded their product range to include other local producers such as Crush (rapeseed oil), Dann’s luxury local icecream and Brick pizza. Collaboration has been another effect of Covid-19 on the retail landscape – shops who have introduced new lines and diversified their businesses have seen benefits.

So where might we be shopping this Christmas? CJ’s Fruit & Veg (cjsfruitveg. com) and The Goat Shed (fieldingcottage. co.uk) at Fielding Cottage are great choices for treating someone to a food hamper or parcel. Jarrolds ( jarrold.co.uk/departments/ the-deli/gift-hampers) make fantastic local produce Christmas hampers, plus they have their own range of products too. The English Whisky Company sell all their whiskys online as do Bullard’s Gin. And if you are into beer (local or otherwise) take a look at Woodforde’s Brewery (woodfordes. com) and Sir Toby’s Beers on Norwich Market (sirtobysbeers.co.uk). Sir Toby’s also offers a Norfolk Beer Box – 8 selected bottles of beer delivered every 1, 2 or 3 months – depending on how generous you’re feeling.

Or how about supporting our fabulous hospitality sector? Pick up the bill for a meal out or buy vouchers to use in the future. You couldn’t find a more welcoming team than at Namaste Village (namasteindiannorwich. com) plus they too now have their own online Namaste Bazaar – a place to buy essential Indian groceries along with savoury snacks, sweets, spices and vegetables. This is for home delivery or collection.

The Waffle House is another favourite in Norwich or for something a bit more upmarket how about The Last, Benedicts or Roger Hickman’s? Or do you know someone who loves an indulgent afternoon tea? The Assembly House, The Maids Head, The Ivy Norwich Brasserie, The Norfolk Mead, Barnham Broom and Park Farm all serve up their own delicious versions. Or how about a classic cream tea at the atmospheric Britons Arms in Elm Hill.

Local commissions are a great way to give more personalised and thoughtful presents.

Sonkai jewellers (sonkai.co.uk) in The Royal Arcade can design whatever you have in mind. They also make new jewellery pieces out of old – this is a fantastic way to update something very special. Or how about getting a sentimental photograph specially framed? Fairhurst Gallery on Bedford Street in Norwich (fairhurstgallery.co.uk) make frames. They also restore, guild, conserve, and clean paintings.

There are loads of local artists and writers in Norfolk too so having a trawl of Instagram or Google will throw up many names who may be able to paint a picture of your pooch, sketch your house, throw a vase or even write an account of a happy personal memory to gift someone. Artist Owen Mathers is a great place to start.

And for those who are never happier than when shopping in a trusted national department store or shopping mall – continue to do so. In person and online.

These stores and malls are just as valuable to our local economy, not only because they employ many people but because they offer a huge range of big and small items all under one roof.

This Christmas choose to discover more from our high streets, market towns, local businesses and the people behind them.

We need to show our support now, more than ever.

For more information, local interviews, stories, itineraries and ideas for where to shop, stay, eat and visit in Norwich and beyond go to visitnorwich.co.uk.

09

THE HOM E OF CHRISTM AS Visit the finest, unique and independent department store in Norwich and discover five floors of carefully curated Christmas gifts for you and your loved ones.

J A R RO L D.CO.U K

Out&About

DISCOVER

STAY THE NIGHT

No��ic� Lane�

Medieval architecture and cobbled streets house a multitude of independent businesses

T

he Norwich Lanes are a series of historic alleyways, courtyards and open spaces set near Norwich City Hall. The medieval architecture here is some of the finest you’ll find anywhere in the UK. Mainly pedestrianised, the cobbled Lanes are home to over 300 independent retailers, cafés, restaurants, pubs and bars. You’ll also find Cinema City, a beloved independent cinema; Maddermarket, a community theatre; two museums, several galleries and a host of live music venues.

What to see and do Whether you’re visiting for the first time or you’ve been a resident of the Fine City all your life, a trip to the Museum of Norwich is essential to understand the history of this area. From the textile trade – once at the heart of the city’s wealth – to the production of shoes, chocolate and of course, mustard, discover the story of Norwich.

If you came here to shop ‘til you drop, you won’t be disappointed – you’ll find everything from vintage clothes, books and jewellers to boardgames, antiques and eco living products.

Lunch If you’re hungry after all that shopping, you’re in the right place, as there are countless fantastic eateries to choose from.

A firm favourite here at Places&Faces is the Waffle House, one of the city’s first independent restaurants. Served in a relaxed, friendly setting, the famed Belgian waffles offer an unexpectedly perfect base for a variety of toppings both savoury and sweet.

Low gluten and vegan waffles are also available. Torn between two? Get both! We recommend the Organic Beef Bolognaise followed by the Bakewell Style Waffle. www.wa�lehousenorwich.co.uk

Drinks Tiny but mighty, you can’t beat Frank’s Bar for a drink (whether alcoholic or not) in a truly quirky, chilled out setting. Frequently exhibiting the work of local artists, Frank’s is cosily and tastefully decorated so there’s always something to look at. As a café/bar, the impressive selection of cocktails, wines, beers and spirits is matched by a good choice of teas, coffees and soft drinks. Vegans are well-catered to here (a friend was particularly overjoyed at their vegan marshmallows) and there’s a tasty array of bar snacks and nibbles if you’re feeling peckish. www.franksbar.co.uk

38 St Giles This boutique B&B in the heart of Norwich is a stone’s throw from the Lanes, Theatre Royal and the market, making it an ideal base for exploring, eating and drinking in this historic part of the city. The beautiful Georgian grade II listed townhouse offers six individually designed and comfortably furnished en-suite rooms and two luxurious suites. Homemade cakes are served on arrival with a choice of teas or coffee, while breakfast in the morning is a sumptuous affair with homemade preserves and all ingredients sourced from the finest local suppliers. The staff simply cannot do enough for you, and will happily help you cater to special events such as anniversaries and birthday celebrations. www.38stgiles.co.uk

11

CAISTOR HALL Norwich

the

p i r T s l Gir Over night stay for two people in one of our Boutique bedrooms Afternoon Tea the day of arrival or departure in our Rose Room A bottle of Prosecco to enjoy either in the room, or with the Afternoon Tea Cooked and continental breakfast the following morning from

£79 per person

AVAILABLE 1st October – 23rd December

Luxurious Rooms | Bar | Restaurant

www.caistorhall.com | 01508 494998 | enquiries@caistorhall.com Caistor St Edmund, Norwich NR14 8QN Terms and conditions apply. Full payment required on booking, non-refundable and non-transferable. Subject to availability.

The Midnight Library

by Matt Haig

From the bestselling author

of How to Stop Time and The Humans comes this poignant and uplifting balm of a novel about regret, hope and forgiveness – and a library that houses second chances.

Between life and death there is a library. When Nora Seed finds herself in the Midnight Library, she has a chance to make things right. Up until now, her life has been full of misery and regret.

She feels she has let everyone down, including herself. But things are about to change.

The books in the Midnight Library enable Nora to live as if she had done things differently.

With the help of an old friend, she can now undo every one of her regrets as she tries to work out her perfect life. But things aren’t always what she imagined they’d be, and soon her choices place the library and herself in extreme danger. Before time runs out, she must answer the ultimate question: what is the best way to live?

Books

&

Books

Staying in doesn’t feel so bad when you have one of these beautiful books to keep you company.

Escape to another world, laugh until you cry, marvel at the dedication of our NHS workers and revisit an old favourite in this month’s picks.

Sh**ged. Married. Dear NHS: Annoyed.

100 Stories to

by Chris & Rosie Ramsey Say Thank You If you’re in need of a good

laugh (and really, who isn’t right now?), look no further than this hilarious book about relationships from the hosts of the number one podcast.

SH**GED – Nights out on the tiles, undying crushes, dating like it’s a competitive sport, awkward tales of dating woes, one-night stands, the walk of shame, ghosting, tears and break-ups.

MARRIED – Finding ‘the one’, meeting their parents, first holidays and romantic weekends away, engagement rings, big moment proposals, wedding bells, the hen and stag do, the much anticipated - and feared best man speech, the honeymoon of a lifetime.

ANNOYED – Who stacks a dishwasher like this? Empty milk cartons placed back into the fridge, pregnancy, sleepless nights, toilet seats up, toothpaste everywhere, less and less frequent date nights, DIY weekends, divorce.

Whichever category you’re in, this relatable look at life’s highs and lows will have you howling.

by various

Great writers, artists,

entertainers and thinkers talk about their experiences of our wonderful NHS and explore what it means to them in this unique collection curated and edited by Adam Kay, author of This Is Going to Hurt. With pieces by Emilia Clarke, Peter Kay, Sir Paul McCartney, Stephen Fry, Dawn French, Sir Trevor McDonald, Graham Norton, Sir Michael Palin, Naomie Harris, Ricky Gervais, Sir David Jason, Dame Emma Thompson, Joanna Lumley and many more, Dear NHS is a thank you and a celebration of our health service and all who work within it.

By turns deeply moving, hilarious and hopeful, these stories are a love letter to the NHS and the 1.4 million people who go above and beyond the call of duty every single day.

All author and publisher profits go to NHS Charities Together to fund vital research and projects, and The Lullaby Trust which supports parents bereaved of babies and young children.

Independent financial advice from the name you can trust

Postscript

by Cecelia Ahern

The long-awaited

sequel to the wildly popular P.S, I Love You is finally here and it was certainly worth the wait. Dive back into the world of Holly and Gerry after seven years away.

‘The PS, I Love You Club.’

These are the six words written on a card handed to Holly Kennedy. They’re words that are engraved on her heart – because PS, I Love You is how her husband, Gerry, signed his last letters to her, letters that mark a year she will never forget.

Now, the mysterious club wants something from her. And if Holly can find the courage meet them, she’ll learn what it really means to live life to the full. Because every love story has one last thing to say...

This one is heartwarming and yes, a tear-jerker, so have tissues at the ready. Ultimately though, it’s a hopeful story of life after loss and the enduring power of love, guaranteed to give you all the warm and fuzzy feels this autumn.

01603 789966

www.smith-pinching.co.uk

Out&About

RAYNHAM ESTATE

outdoor Christmas market A new outdoor Christmas market is coming to Norfolk, giving people the chance to shop for the best local produce and gifts in a safe and spacious environment.

R

aynham Estate, in

north Norfolk, will host its first ever outdoor Christmas market across four days this November and December. With a festive mix of local produce, gifts, crafts, street food, a bar and even locally-grown Christmas trees, the free market will be open on 28th and 29th November and the 5th and 6th December, from 10am to 3pm each day. Free to attend, visitors are being asked to pre-book and pay for their car parking online, to help the organisers monitor and manage numbers safely. Revenue from car parking fees will be split between YANA, the charity for rural mental health support, and local air cadets.

Part of the Townshend family for more than 500 years, the Raynham Estate, near Fakenham, includes a beef and arable farming enterprise, glamping site and events venue. For the first time this year, the estate’s beautiful, walled garden will play host to the Outdoor Christmas Market, carefully designed to be completely covid-secure. Steps taken to maximise visitor safety will include: handsanitiser stations; controlled guest numbers; socially distanced eating area; one way system; individual gazebos for stalls ¬ rather than a central marquee.

“We’ve been asked why we’re launching a new initiative at a time when so many other events are being cancelled,” says Tom Raynham, chief executive of Raynham Estate. “We feel strongly that we need to adapt to this ‘new normal’ and give people in Norfolk something to look forward to.”

Entrance to the outdoor market is free, with a £3 parking charge per car. Parking spaces must be booked in advance at www. ticketsource.co.uk. For more information, visit the Raynham Facebook page @RaynhamNorfolk.

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Celebrity BOTTOM DRAWER

Griff Rhys Jones to continue EACH fundraising with Celebrity Bottom Drawer auction.

A

one of a kind film camera coffin

made in Ghana is among quirky items that could be yours this Christmas as A-listers sift through their D-list stuff to raise money for East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH). The Celebrity Bottom Drawer auction is being organised by Griff Rhys Jones as he continues his annual festive fundraising for the charity. He is currently asking his network of celebrity friends built up over 40 years of comedy, TV and radio to re-gift items too valuable to take to the dump, with a tranche of top grade celebrity cast-offs, memorabilia and treasure expected to be available come 27 November, when a week-long online auction will begin.

Exclusive books from David Walliams and a special £10 note created for Doctor Who from David Tennant are among items that have already started coming in, with more to come from the likes of Alexander Armstrong, Ant and Dec, Ian Hislop, Joanna Lumley, Matt Lucas, Ralph Fiennes, Tom Hollander and so many more.

Griff explains: “Last year we did a great show called Happy Christmas Ipswich at the Regent. A lot of good friends and great performers like Lee Mack, Rick Wakeman and Al Murray had a ball and raised over £70,000. We can’t do a show this year, for reasons I won’t bore you with because you know already. But we still need money.

“I have been to the children’s hospice in Ipswich myself several times and I have never been so moved. It is a place that is about life, not death. It is there to give joy. Not just to enable kids to get the best out of their time, but to support their mothers and fathers. These are people who may have had to entirely alter their lives, their hopes and their ambitions because of their love and sacrifice. For some parents just a single weekend of hospice care can be a beacon of hope.

Dawn French’s Rolex

But it costs. The money this vital service needs, which is largely unsupported by government, has been hit grotesquely hard this year.”

This is the fourth Christmas running Griff has raised money for EACH, with last year’s star-studded show having followed two solo performances in 2017 and 2018.

“I just moved house.” Griff said. “What a load of stuff I had. I thought I can send this to the dump or put it on ebay, but some of it was too good and too personal and I came up with this idea. You are lucky. We are lucky. I was lucky. Many of us have never had to face this challenge. But those that do, need and deserve our support. You don’t have to bid. You can just give.”

Bid-In Group were ideally placed to take on the challenge of building and launching an online auction for Griff Rhys Jones Celebrity Bottom Drawer, having re-purposed its staff into a taskforce to help the fundraising community during the pandemic. So far they have raised in excess of £3m for charities this year alone.

Bid-In has donated this service completely free-of-charge to The Celebrity Bottom Drawer, and has also been busy doing the same for many other charities. This generous initiative has been put in place in order to help charities to plug the fundraising gap during this hugely challenging time which has come about as a result of all events and gatherings being temporarily cancelled, and all fundraising moving online. If you’d like to know how Bid-In can help you, contact them on info@bid-ingroup.com.

For more information and to start looking at lots announced so far visit:

www.CelebrityBottomDrawer.com www.each.org.uk

Same great place, just a new name.

Have fun!

Chapelfield Norwich is now Chantry Place.

Over 90 fantastic shops, cafĂŠs and restaurants, to put a smile on your face.

ChantryPlace.co.uk Follow us on social: ChantryPlaceNorwich

#ChantryPlace

west stow pods

Old Hall Farm Suffolk Holiday Barns

Three beautifully converted barns sleeping 6, 6 & 4 on a farm close to the Suffolk coast.

Indoor play barn and summer swimming pool.

Ingham Road, West Stow, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk IP28 6EX • 01284 728136

www.weststowpods.co.uk @GlampinginSuffolk

@WestStowPods

@weststowpods

CHRISTMAS UNWRAPPED

• Guided Hall, Heritage, Landscape and Wildlife Tours & Experiences • Meet the Team Events • Christmas Food, Drink and Gift Market • Festive Workshops • Family Bushcraft • Buy Locally Grown Christmas Trees • Shopping • Cosy Cafés • Wintery Walks • And much more…

To find out more and book tickets visit

holkham.co.uk/christmas

www.oldhallfarmcottages.co.uk @oldhallfarmcottages

@OldHallFarm

Out&About

S������

Coast&Heaths by

www.suffolkcoastandheaths.org

W

ith 2020’s lockdown came a greater appreciation of our local landscape, and a closer affinity with nature and the mental health benefits of accessing the countryside on our doorstep. Despite the unprecedented challenges this year has presented for the country, it has meant more of us have been getting outdoors and spending time in our beautiful natural surroundings In many ways it has been a wonderful year for our national landscapes – and it has been a double celebration for the Suffolk Coast and Heaths. Firstly, 2020 marks the 50th anniversary since the area was officially designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) to protect the land and conserve and enhance its natural beauty, and this year also saw the announcement of a significant extension to the land it covers.

Along with National Parks, AONBs cover almost 25% of England. The Suffolk Coast & Heaths area was designated in 1970 with the purpose of conserving and enhancing the habitats and biodiversity of the special heathlands, woodlands, estuaries and coast.

In July 2020, in a sign to further strengthen and recognise the importance of the AONB, a long-awaited extension of the area was announced by the Secretary of State – becoming the first extension to an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in England for almost 30 years.

The AONB originally stretched from Kessingland in the north to Shotley Peninsula, across 155 square miles of largely tranquil and unspoilt landscape featuring wildlife-rich estuaries, ancient heaths, windswept shingle beaches and historic towns and villages.

Now, following the extensions, the AONB includes a further 14.6 square miles

Upper Hollesley Common | Photo: Gill Moon

When you think of the stunning landscapes associated with the AONBs, you would be forgiven for drawing your attention to the honeypot areas, such as Aldeburgh and Southwold on the Coast. to include the River Stour Estuary from Manningtree, across the Suffolk-Essex border – a significant extension of nearly 10 percent, comprising of woodlands, mud flats and saltmarsh, which is of international importance for its wildfowl and waders.

While the celebrations were held in a much more muted way than originally planned due to the covid restrictions, half

a century of working in partnership to deliver better outcomes for nature and landscape is some achievement, and our wonderful countryside remains highly valued by local communities.

Over the past 50 years, this special national landscape has been conserved and enhanced by landowners, local authorities, and AONB partner organisations such as the National Trust, RSPB and Wildlife

Aldeburgh Beach | Photo: Gregg Brown

17

Out&About

Birds over the River Ore | Photo: Gill Moon

Boats at Pin Mill | Photo: Gill Moon Aldeburgh | Photo: Gill Moon

Trusts as well as the AONB team of staff based in Melton, Woodbridge and volunteer groups across Essex and Suffolk.

When you think of the stunning landscapes associated with the AONBs, you would be forgiven for drawing your attention to the honeypot areas, such as Aldeburgh and Southwold on the coast.

Whilst these iconic places are undoubtedly incredibly popular with tourists and locals alike, the extension of the AONB recognises the exceptional landscapes that are a little more off the beaten track and offer a quieter visit to enjoy that feeling of being close to nature, whilst also a sense of experiencing it on your own.

The newly designated part of the AONB is made up of made up of three very distinct areas - Freston Brook, the Stour estuary and Samford Valley and provide

Minding the Gap Beach Clean on Felixstowe Beach Photo: Gregg Brown

those opportunities to explore different patches on our doorsteps.

The best way to explore the area is by foot and there are plenty of scenic paths to choose from, allowing visitors the opportunity to experience unique habitats, visit historic towns and villages and enjoy the beautiful landscapes.

What do the next 50 years hold for the AONB? As part of enhanced nature recovery efforts to conserve, restore and enhance natural habitats and species across

the nationally-important landscape in the face of growing threats from climate change and harmful human behaviour, a flagship species, the Redshank, for the Coast & Heaths has been announced.

A symbol of the changing coastline, the bird, sometimes referred to as the Sentinel of the Marshes, was selected by environmental partners representing 16 organisations with an interest in the AONB’s wildlife.

Additionally, a new National Lottery Heritage Funded project aims to encourage and inspire a new generation of nature lovers to explore, enjoy and protect the expanded AONB through innovative initiatives, photography projects and increased accessibility to further strengthen the bond between the landscape and those who live, work and visit here.

As we look ahead to the next half century, the scenic beauty of the AONB will continue to make it a unique place in the country. Central to this is connecting people with nature and having the opportunity to be close to so many different important habitats for wildlife along the Suffolk Coast.

Haw Wood Farm

Sutton Heath | Photo: Gill Moon

18

is a peaceful and well maintained 14 acre site surrounded by beautiful countryside, and with easy access from the A12 and just 5 miles from the scenic Suffolk Coast is the perfect base for exploring the nearby towns, forests, nature reserves and beaches. Offering spacious and level grass serviced pitches, fully serviced hardstandings and secluded meadows for tents and tourers. There is a motorhome service point, dog walking meadow and woodland walk, onsite shop and café with free Wi-Fi, children’s play area with table tennis and a laundry and wash up room. The luxurious bathrooms include family rooms and a disabled access room.

Haw Wood Farm has a David Bellamy Gold award for conservation and is one of the few AA 5 Gold Pennant campsites in Suffolk, a perfect base to enjoy this wonderful part of the region.

A boutique business offering Holiday Lettings and Property Management Services on the beautiful Suffolk Coast

www.aldeburghcoastalcottages.co.uk

info@accottages.co.uk

01728 830250 @AldeburghCoastalCottages

BRAND GUIDELINES

BRAND GUIDELINES

A peaceful, well maintained site in beautiful Suffolk countryside

A peaceful, well maintained site in beautiful Suffolk countryside

01502 359550 01502 359550 A peaceful, well maintained site in beautiful Suffolk countryside Haw Wood Farm, Hinton, Saxmundham, Suffolk IP17 3QT. Telephone - 01986 784248 www.hawwoodfarm.co.uk

Haw Wood Farm, Hinton, Saxmundham, Suffolk IP17 3QT. Telephone - 01986 784248 www.hawwoodfarm.co.uk

info@hawwoodfarm.co.uk info@hawwoodfarm.co.uk 01502 359550 info@hawwoodfarm.co.uk www.hawwoodfarm.co.uk www.hawwoodfarm.co.uk Hinton, Saxmundham, www.hawwoodfarm.co.uk Hinton, Saxmundham, Suffolk IP17 3QT Suffolk IP17 3QT Hinton, Saxmundham, Suffolk IP17 3QT

OPEN MONDAYSATURDAY 9-5PM SUNDAY 10.30-5PM BANK HOLIDAYS 9-5PM

FULLY BESPOKE HANDMADE KITCHENS, BEDROOMS, OFFICES, BATHROOMS & FREE STANDING FURNITURE

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Food&Drink

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We have done all the hard work, so you don’t have to. Here are our �ive festive recommendations for...

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Woodforde’s Nog Pudding Add a splash of Woodforde’s champion dark ruby-red ale, rich with chocolate and treacle flavours, to a Christmas pudding and you get an instant classic. Enjoy this light, traditional pudding on its own for £17.50, or for £20 you also get two bottles of Tinsel Toes, Woodforde’s beloved Christmas Ale, to sip alongside it. £17.50 | www.woodfordes.com

Morton’s free-range Norfolk turkeys An essential Christmas table centrepiece, this family farm offer whole Norfolk Black or Bronze turkeys, crowns and breast joints. Norfolk Bronze is sweet and succulent, while the Norfolk Black has a slightly stronger flavour. Order early to avoid disappointment. £26.52-£130.13 | www.mortonsfarm.co.uk

DID YOU KNOW?

St Peter’s Christmas Ale A copper coloured, smooth, fruity, and full-bodied ale. Aromas of toffee and caramel lead to rich and smooth flavours of festive fruits and spices – the perfect companion for Christmas savouries, sweets, and snacks. £23 | 12 x 500ml www.stpetersbrewery.co.uk

Traditionally, there were 13 ingredients in a Christmas pudding to represent Jesus and the 12 disciples: raisins, currants, suet, brown sugar, bread crumbs, citron, lemon peel, orange peel, flour, mixed spices, eggs, milk, and brandy.

But something rather more inedible was also commonly added – a silver sixpence, which was supposed to bring luck (or a broken tooth) to whoever found it in their portion.

The custom of hiding tokens in festive puddings dates back to Medieval times, when a dried pea and a dried bean would be hidden inside a Twelfth Night Cake – the discoverers of which would have to lead the dancing, or receive a forfeit.

Baron Bigod Cheese No festive cheeseboard is complete without a wheel of Norfolk’s famed traditional farmhouse Brie-style cheese, handmade at Fen Farm from raw grass-fed Montbeliarde cows milk. Expect warm milky flavours, notes of mushrooms, earth and farmyard with a nutty rind. £23-£63 | www.fenfarmdairy.co.uk

The Tiny Tipple Co’s Sloe Gin Liqueur With all ingredients grown, picked or sourced in Norfolk and Suffolk, The Tiny Tipple Company’s infusions celebrate nature’s harvest. Sloe gin is a seasonal favourite – mix with Prosecco on Christmas morning for a celebratory tipple. £29 | 500ml www.thetinytipplecompany.co.uk

21

Food&Drink gourmet gossip

Ready, get set...

BAKE AS WE head towards the final of The Great British Bake Off everyone is at home producing their own show stoppers. But what if you want to improve your baking confidence or add to your repertoire? Well you’re in luck. You can book a course at Suffolk’s The Two Magpies Bake School, the perfect place to experience artisan baking first-hand. Teaching new skills and sharing trade secrets, there’s a class to suit all abilities from complete novices to more experienced bakers.

The Two Magpies Bake School will be offering a range of full and half day classes including doughnut and sourdough masterclasses, gluten-free baking, Scandinavian baking, Continental baking and a bagel and pretzel class. The range of courses available at the bake school offers something for everyone and guarantees you’ll come out of class inspired, educated and laden with goodies to take home and enjoy.

Two Magpies Bakery operates bakeries in Aldeburgh, Southwold, Darsham and Norwich and is run by husband and wife team, Rebecca Bishop and Steve Magnall and prides itself on offering the bestquality bread and pastries. www.twomagpiesbakery.co.uk 22

A snow globe with a difference CELEBRATE CHRISTMAS with the new must-have gin gift for 2020 - an indulgent Orange and Gingerbread Snow Globe Gin. Presented in an exquisite Italian made snow globe bottle, the product contains edible 23kt gold leaf and a lamp on the base for illumination. The luxurious gin has a zesty Seville orange upfront taste with warmth from gingerbread, notes of cinnamon and dried cloves which perfectly capture the spirit of Christmas. For an extra wow factor, simply give the globe a gentle shake and turn on the lamp switch on the base to see the twinkling gold leaf cascade around the Christmas scene inside.

Add to Prosecco for a bubbly twist, with your favourite tonic, as part of a festive cocktail or simply enjoy neat over ice.

Available from Harvey Nichols 700ml | 20% ABV | RRP £29

The Suffolk Sea Salt Co. LOCALLY HARVESTED Suffolk sea salt, handmade in small batches for superior taste and texture.

Find them on Facebook and Instagram @suffolksalt

DO YOU LOVE the lead-up to Christmas, but wish to avoid all those chocolate treats? Then roll into the festivities and stay healthy with The Protein Ball Co. guilt-free advent calendar – a fun and delicious way to welcome advent without the guilt.

A must for fitness enthusiasts and clean eating fans who are looking for a healthy alternative to the traditional, sugar-laden calender, this attractive advent calendar is packed full of yummy 100% natural, no added sugar, bite-size protein balls, with six tempting flavours to enjoy behind each door. Tuck into Goji & Coconut, Lemon & Pistachio, Raspberry Brownie, Apple & Blueberry, Peanut Butter and a special festive-flavoured Christmas ball behind door no.24. All flavours are vegan so everyone can get stuck in. www.theproteinballco.com

Bringing the piste to you this winter WITH sweet and warming botanicals of pineapple, ginger and chilli at its heart, Spirit of Aloha 65 is the perfect winter tipple and hits the spot on a cosy evening in front of the fire served just on its own over ice, or instead of a gin and tonic as a long drink mixed with ginger ale or a seasonal tonic like Fever Tree’s Clementine tonic water. The Aloha Mac, a modern twist on the classic with Aloha 65 and Stone’s ginger wine also works a treat, or something really Christmassy, like the Aloha Velvet with Aloha 65, brandy, orange and lemon juice, sugar syrup and egg yolk. Finally, if you’re up for some mulling, surprise your friends and family by whacking some Aloha 65 in either red wine, cider or cloudy apple juice together with some cinnamon, star anise and cloves.

70cl | 27% ABV | RRP: £22.50 www.aloha65.com

Gressingham: The Recipe Book

Cinnamon Seeds A DELICIOUS blend of sunflower and pumpkin seeds, with a sweet taste of cinnamon, Warm Cinnamon Munchy Seeds evoke the flavours of winter in each delicious bite.

Plus, each pack offers a good source of protein, vitamin E and fibre, as well as iron, zinc and magnesium.

Available from Sainsbury’s, Waitrose, Ocado and The Co-op.

125g sharing packs RRP £2.99.

More turkey anyone?

LOOKING FOR the ultimate festive snack for the Christmas season? Then stock up on Fairfields Farm moreish Kelly Bronze turkey, sage and onion crisps.

Fairfields Farm Kelly Bronze turkey, sage and onion crisps combine the delicious and succulent flavours of hand-reared bronze turkey with the punchy and herby taste of sage and onion to bring you a tasty and throughly festive snack that truly sums up Christmas in one crunch.

Fair�ields Farm Kelly Bronze Turkey, Sage and Onion crisps are available in 150g bags from Ocado, The Co-op and independent retailers across the UK. RRP £1.99.

Top of the pops LET THE Festive TV Watching, Netflix streaming, couch sitting and of course popcorn snacking commence.

Introducing the elegantly designed, premium Merry Christmas popcorn gift tin, sealed with a beautiful bow.

Containing 400g grams of delicious gourmet popcorn in three indulgent flavours; caramel, chocolate and christmas pudding.

Once you have eaten all of your delicious popcorn treats, you can re-use the tin as a decorative piece in your home or use as handy storage tin for everything from biscuits to socks.

RRP £28. Available at www.popcornshed.com

THE BOOK offers the perfect opportunity to try an ingredient you may never have cooked with before, or to expand your repertoire with over 70 fresh, simple and sumptuous ideas. This definitive collection of duck and speciality poultry recipes – from a brand renowned for its quality – was produced by cook book specialist Meze Publishing to mark a very special moment in time for Gressingham as it celebrates 50 years of the family business that was founded by Maurice and Miriam Buchanan.

Gressingham is the country’s foremost name when it comes to duck, not to mention your Christmas turkey or goose, as well as the best poussin and guinea fowl you’ll find this side of the Channel.

Available from Amazon and bookshops including Waterstones and online from www.mezepublishing.co.uk. Hardback £22.

Food&Drink

Countdown to Christmas

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Garden & Leisure

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Food&Drink

a�� Cai�to� HHotel

This Georgian gem on the outskirts of Norwich is well worth a visit, as Carolyn Atkins discovers…

I

realised when I went to Caistor Hall in October that it was the first time that my husband and I had been out for a proper meal since November last year. No wonder then that it was such a fabulous treat!

The hotel offers a bar menu from Monday to Wednesday and a tempting à la carte menu on Thursday and Friday evenings and all day Saturday, plus a leisurely Sunday lunch menu.

We visited on a Thursday evening and there were plenty of cars in the car park; the friendly barman confided that the 21-bedroom hotel was full.

The property is Covid-secure, with all the current procedures in place and Head Chef Olly Rigden, who creates the moreish menus, and who has been at the hotel for almost a year, is pleased about that. He said: “The pandemic has been tough on us for both the restaurant and hotel itself.

We’ve followed all the government guidelines and we are very happy to see our restaurant with a busy and happy atmosphere once again.”

We had our drinks ¬ an elderflower-flavoured Fever-Tree tonic water and a glass of Rioja along with some marinated olives, in the attractive Palm Court Bar area; where diners also take morning coffee and afternoon tea, and where wedding ceremonies often take place. With its high teal-coloured ceiling, lantern skylight and chandeliers, padded Chesterfield sofas and brick floor, together with its many namesake palms, this is an inviting place that’s perfect for intimate gatherings; currently weddings are allowed for a maximum of 15 guests.

Caistor Hall is ideal for special occasions, set in over 30 acres of mature

grounds and boasting a Pavilion Marquee which, in normal times, can seat up to 300.

There are also plenty of elegant breakout rooms, including the pretty pale pink Rose Room and the tartan and green Whisky Library, a relaxing snug which provides the perfect place for a nightcap.

After enjoying our drinks, we walked through the welcoming bar area, with its many cosy and quirky corners, to the restaurant itself where we were impressed with the décor, service and food.

With its high ceilings, sash windows and shutters, real fireplaces with marble surrounds, moulded coving and huge mirror at one end, the restaurant is striking and impressive. Meanwhile, the duck egg blue walls above the dado rail, with a deeper teal colour below (a recurring theme throughout the hotel), together with splashes of silver from the ornaments, vases and candelabra, lend the restaurant elegance and charm.

Our waitress was very

professional; helpful and attentive, and there was a pleasant atmosphere, but what impressed us most was the food. There is something for everyone and we both enjoyed our choices. Miles had the aged 8oz ribeye steak, grilled tomato, onion rings, triple cooked chips with peppercorn sauce; while I chose the smoked poached haddock, spinach & herb bubble and squeak, crispy poached egg and crispy rocket.

The steak was cooked and seasoned perfectly, while the chips were just right – with a soft texture that still had bite and just a hint of sweetness.

There is a wide variety of wine on offer and while Miles chose the Shiraz/ Cabernet from down under to go with his steak, I enjoyed my Picpoul de Pinet from France with its rather oaky flavour which went well with the fish.

We then decided on sticky toffee pudding and summer fruits eaton mess from a list of just three desserts (the other option was a chocolate brownie); a good idea, as you can have too much choice.

The Eton Mess wasn’t messy at all – more like a mini pavlova than the famous mashed-up fruit, cream and meringue dessert, with a pretty pattern of fruit sprayed with edible gold glitter. The Sticky Toffee Pudding was delicious too, and I loved the accompanying caramel sauce.

Everything was beautifully presented, including the coffee, which we drank in the inviting Whisky Library.

I’d definitely recommend going to Caistor Hall and, of course, with the current 10pm closing time (last sitting 8.30pm), we were back home much earlier than usual, which our babysitters appreciated too.

Caistor Hall Hotel Stoke Road, Caistor St. Edmund, Norwich, NR14 8QN | 01508 494 998 www.caistorhall.com 25

delivery Meals from only

£3.25 + FREE* delivery

Bags of flavour (Not bags of shopping)

AS SEEN ON TV

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Delivered for free* by our Wiltshire Farm Foods friendly local drivers, they is a great help when you can even put your meals can’t get to the shops, in the freezer if you want. don’t feel like cooking Our good old-fashioned a meal or would rather Meals from service means you just call spend time with your yourDelivered local branch to order. onlythan £3.39 for free* by our Wiltshire Farm Foods grandchildren There’s no contract or they Minimum order value £25 friendly local drivers, is afor great queuing thehelp tills.when you anything like that, you just

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can even put your meals Quote codepay as can’t getorder to the shops, youfreezer go. if you want. in the With over 300feel delicious frozen don’t like cooking XMAS20 for So, when meals and desserts to choose youold-fashioned can’t make Our good

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from, our customers can enjoy spend time with your tasty meals whenever they grandchildren than your first need them, from as little queuing for the tills. as £3.25. order

service means you don’t just call it to the shops or you yourcooking local branch to order. feel like a meal, why There’s no contract or not let us make life that little anything like that, you just bit easier?

With over 300 delicious frozen and desserts to choose *Minimummeals orders required in some areas from, our customers can enjoy tasty meals whenever they For your brochure needFREE them, from as little call as £3.25.

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Food&Drink PROMOTION

The Good the Bad the Hungry Café

& T

here are two kinds of spurs, my friend. Those that come in by the door; those that come in by the window,” Tuco the Ugly said in the famous spaghetti western. The staff at The Good The Bad and The Hungry Café don’t mind how you enter, they just can’t wait to spoil you after all these months of the unknown and uncertainty. When Covid struck and they were in full swing of enjoying their wonderful customers and spoiling them silly, the, what to do? dilemma hit them like a freight train; what to do with a fully stocked fridge? How much cake can one eat before it gets ridiculous? How will they survive shutting the doors for goodness knows how long? What about their wonderful team?

With the chaos in the supermarkets and the obvious struggle and fear that surrounded everyone the ‘Survival Boxes’ were born! They decided they wanted to help their community. They had the suppliers, they could get the deliveries and they had the transport to deliver. It was time to pay it forward. The pleasure and satisfaction of being able to help the people around them was second to none. The time they spent making up and delivering the boxes and getting to know the wonderful people around them was both a learning curve and humbling. It bought their team together and has made them into the tight unit they are today. More than a team, a family.

The extension had been in the pipeline for over a year before Covid even reared its ugly head. They were planning to close in March, to have the foundations put in and the bulk of the work done and they were going to open as they were working... but things, as it so often happens in life, didn’t go to plan! They took the COVID opportunity to re-think, re-model and re-

vitalise the space situated on the Norfolk/ Suffolk border. The still extremely unique and cosy countryside café set within rolling fields at GWC Equestrian Centre in Wingfield is now bigger and better than ever. Their wonderful builders struggled to start the project, were set back by weather and the usual technical problems of building work. But once they were able to get their motors running they started and never looked back. They also had their team that stuck by them and volunteered their time to create the wonderful atmosphere you will find at the café today.

Without them or their dedication they don’t know where they would be!

To present day and they have been able to open. There may be a smidgen of painting still to do, but they are back ready to spoil you again. The fabulously talented Chef Joe, offers everything from an all-day

breakfast to a bistro style menu, a variety of daily specials, delightful desserts and spectacular afternoon teas, is ready to blow your minds. They have a brilliant baker with Dianne’s homemade cakes and goodies which are to scream from the roof tops about. Plus she’s been shut in for months so has come up with even more delightful treats. All of their coffee is locally roasted after being brought directly from the farmer and freshly ground to order, for you to enjoy at its very best.

They pride themselves on their friendly attentive service where they offer a warm, delightful and fun place for guests to relax and enjoy.

They have much fun and frolics planned for the future. Starting off with a whopping 9am to 10pm Friday opening. They are now a fully licenced café, so why not chill with a glass of wine and Chef Joe’s magic on a Friday evening? They have also started a Sunday Carvery for you to come and enjoy from 12 noon. Their themed nights will also be back in full swing soon with plenty more things for you to get your teeth stuck into!

The Good The Bad & The Hungry GWC Equestrian Centre, Vicarage Road, Wingfield, IP21 5RB 01379 388 193 www.gwcequestriancentre.co.uk/cafe 27

CLEY SMOKEHOUSE

Traditionally Smoked Fish, Shellfish & Meats

DENNY OF SOUTHWOLD

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Sunday 10.30am - 4.30pm

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Love Local

Tech-tastic

Ch�i�t�a� The countdown to

Andrew Hirst looks at getting organised, keeping it real and keeping it local this Christmas.

S

anta self isolates every year. He

pops out on Christmas Eve and does what he needs to do, and then holds-up at the North Pole with his extended family for 364 days. Alright, he might be in breech of the rule of six and he clearly does most of his work from home, but he is a dab hand at these festive shenanigans. This year we all need to take note of one of Santa’s most unsung talents ¬ organisation. The big fella in the red suit is a master organiser; lets be honest I bet Mrs. Clause has a hand in all this as well.

Spending all year making a list, checking it twice and sorting out his travel plans; which certainly includes a lot of social distancing.

If you haven’t started thinking about the festivities already then maybe it’s time you did. Christmas this year is going to be very different. Let’s embrace the change and accept it for what it is. Christmas isn’t ruined, it’s just not what we did last year... or the year before that.

Make a list I can’t stress this enough this year... be organised. Make a list of the people you want to buy presents for. Put some time into it. Don’t just sit there with the iPad flicking through page after page of Amazon.

We are not going out as much these days so you don’t have the excuse that your social calendar is too busy. Look to local suppliers and go for quality not quantity. One great thoughtful gift that has provenance is worth more than three random selections delivered next day. Leave all of your shopping to the last minute and you may struggle to get the best results. It’s not just the gifts. Let’s talk turkey... no let’s really talk turkey. Want a great bird for lunch?

Get it ordered. Barmey about beef? Get it ordered. Everything you need to make your Christmas go the way you want needs to be planned, so let’s get organised.

Local yocal Norfolk and Suffolk has some of the most fabulous products on offer; from gins to clothing you can get the lot on your doorstep. With the likes of Adnams, Norfolk Gin, Tiny Tipple Co and St Giles, to name but a few, why would you want to buy a bottle of Gordons?

Buying one fabulously made item of clothing from Norfolk’s Carrier Company (www.carriercompany.co.uk), for example, is worth more than a large pile of items sewed together with a thought process of, lets make a profit rather than a quality item of clothing to be be cherished for years to come.

French wine makers use the word “terroir”. The literal meaning is “soil” or “earth.” However, the word carries a much deeper connotation in wine-making and tasting, and is the collective profile of qualities that the local environment imparts on the grapes that will soon become the wine you drink. The excellent products available throughout our region embody all of this with a real sense of provenance. Check out pages 41 and 42 for just a small selection of our local businesses ready to put a smile on that special someone’s face with a locally sourced gift.

Because we will be socially distancing, rule of six’ing, support bubbling and whatever else will we have to think of come Christmas morn it is the best time to embrace the new order. From Facetiming to Zooming we really have no excuse no to. The majority of households today have access to some kind of device which will accommodate a video call. If they don’t have the tech, well maybe this is the perfect gift for them? Oh, and don’t forget to help them with the setting up of said device.

Just because you find it second nature to use it doesn’t they will. With so many manufacturers jumping on the bandwagon you might be spoiled for choice.

Why not set a place at the festive table for your iPad so Aunty Flo can join in guessing the punchlines to the bad jokes.

Christmas is a time for togetherness and social distancing won’t get in the way when we use the technology we all have at our fingertips.

Be kind to others & the planet It isn’t just the present. What about all of the other things that go along with Christmas. The sheer indulgence and the waste. I have mostly steered away from buying my children the mountain of plastic for Christmas morning. It really is landfill fodder. Played with once and then added to the collection of dust gathering action figures from last year. What about the packaging and the wrapping paper? Choose a gift that maybe impacts the environment a little less. That’s maybe a gift that is worth giving to the kids. Yes the sparkly plastic wrapping paper is pretty, but it is soon ripped off and discarded. Grandma Ruby might sit there and carefully fold the paper to take home to re-use but most of us will be frantically stuffing it in the bin to get ready for the next round of nibbles and drinks. I nearly took it too far one year when I wrapped the gifts in newspaper, so maybe a happy medium is a good compromise.

29

&s Tipple

Tried Tasted Looking to be visited by Christmas spirits this year... make sure they are local with these top notch gins.

T

he local gin we have available these days is of an excellent quality, and many of them have the awards to prove it. Here at Places&Faces HQ we have undertaken the difficult job of trying just a few of the gins the region has to offer. Don’t just grab a bottle of Gordon’s off the supermarket shelf, be daring and sample a local brand, we are certain you will prefer the superior taste. This is just a small sample of the gin Norfolk and Suffolk has to offer to get you started. So what are you waiting for? Get out there and get discovering... and let the party be’gin.

Norfolk Gin

Bullards Coastal Gin

Hand made in small batches this gin is vibrant with juniper and herbal notes.

You can also sense a touch of spice culminating in a citrus finish.

70cl | 39% ABV | RRP: £44.99 www.norfolkgin.co.uk

Inspired by the Norfolk coastline, this gin has a delicate salty influence complemented by bright citrus flavours, hand foraged sea purslane and marsh samphire.

70cl | 40% ABV | RRP: £35 www.bullardsspirits.co.uk

St. Giles Spiced Orange & Cranberry

Adnams Rising Sun

Fishers Original Gin

Could this be Christmas in a bottle?

Bursting with fresh orange and cranberry, followed by a comforting spiced finish.

A must for the festive drinks cabinet.

70cl | 41% ABV | RRP: £39 www.stgilesgin.com

This refreshing rye-based gin is made using rye grown by Jonathan Adnams at his farm is Reydon and is blended with Japanese macha tea and lemongrass.

70cl | 42% ABV | RRP: £29.99 www.adnams.co.uk

Made in small batches in Aldeburgh with botanicals like juniper, cardamom and citrus, spignel, rock samphire, wood aven and bog myrtle. A top tipple celebrating the Suffolk coast.

70cl | 44% ABV | RRP: £39.95 www.�ishersgin.com

30

Bored of just adding tonic? Give these gin based cocktails a try.

The Wonka bar

This really is a bit different and no it’s not diet friendly. But it is smooth, creamy, with a hint of chocolate and the luxury of truffle oil, so it is worth the extra few calories

Ingredients:

Zoom & Shake Don’t let the social distancing rules out the kibosh on your cocktail night...

Zoom and shake. If you are organised send out an ingredient list and Zoom call your friends whilst you all make the cocktails together and then chat and enjoy. Remember to make sure you are all at the same stage otherwise some of you will still be shaking whilst everyone else is sipping, and nobody wants that.

50ml gin vanilla ice cream 1 heaped tbsp Oreo cookies (crushed) 3 dashes tru�le bitters 1 drop tru�le oil 1 tbsp sugar 50ml almond milk

Method: Mix together a tablespoon of vanilla ice cream and the almond milk.

Then add gin stirring vigorously to combine. Then stir in the sugar, the truffle bitters, truffle oil. Finally, add a scoop of vanilla ice cream and Oreo crumbs. Stir together until thick and creamy. Add whipped cream to the top if you are feeling really indulgent.

Ginger gin spritz A tall drink that has a warming kick from the ginger. If you are only used to having tonic, this is an easy way to spice things up a little.

Want to look like a Bond villain whilst mixing your cocktails? Then look no further. This stylish piece of octo kit will soon have your martinis shaken and not stirred.

Culinary Concepts Octopus Cocktail Shaker £39.95 www.johnlewis.com

Use a jigger This essential piece of kit provides quality control and enables you to get the exact proportions correct every time.

Ingredients: 50ml gin 25ml Lillet Blanc 100ml Prosecco 1 thin slice of ginger (peeled) Splash of ginger beer Garnish: spring of mint, lemon and lime

Method: Add the ginger to a tall glass and then fill with ice. Pour over the Lillet Blanc, gin and Prosecco. Top up with ginger beer and stir to combine.

Make a complex drink in batches If you are serving the same cocktail multiple times it can become a never ending task. Mix larger batches and store in a sealed container in the fridge and then re shake over ice when needed. You will look like a pro and get the drinks out quicker allowing you to join in the fun rather than being shackled to the shaker.

31

Food&Drink

Be’Gin

Let the party

Tipple tips

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Don’t fancy turkey this year?

Check out these three local alternatives

I

t’s the popular choice but it’s not for everyone. The classic free-range Norfolk Black turkeys are slow-maturing birds that give a wonderful flavour, however you might fancy something different this year to be the centrepiece to your Christmas table.

With these three top alternatives you really could go cold turkey for turkey.

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Blythburgh free range pork Jimmy Butler, with the support of his wife Pauline, took the concept of free range pig farming and made it into a business. Now the family run business has been setting the standard for excellence in Suffolk for pig farming for many years. Jimmy, AKA ‘the hog father’ as he is lovingly referred to by his sons Stuart and Alastair, has taken on his family’s vision for Blythburgh Free Range Pork to be considered synonymous with pork excellence throughout the UK. His free range pig farming journey has seen him work with the Hairy Bikers, named the first ever Farmer’s Weekly ‘Pig Farmer of the Year’, win the coveted British pig industry’s ‘Chris Brant Award’ and crowned the East Anglian Daily Times ‘Suffolk Food Hero’. Stuart and Alastair Butler are second generation free range pig farmers with families of their own and four boys between them, who may become the third generation.

A quality pork joint with that ever so important crackling is a fabulous alternative to turkey this year. Twin this with some homemade apple sauce using some locally sourced apples is a thing of beauty.

What about a Christmas ham, coated with a sticky mustard, sugar and honey glaze. Boxing Day will be a delight with the leftovers... if there are any. www.freerangepork.co.uk

Gressingham goose Once a staple of the Christmas table, goose is once again experiencing a resurgence as people look for something different to the usual turkey. Starting their journey at the very start of the year, the geese pair up on Valentine’s Day, laying their first eggs at Easter to be fully grown in time for Christmas. Born and raised in a small flock on the farm in Suffolk, they spend their days outside in the fresh air or in well-ventilated barns, where they graze the grass as well as eating a mix of wheat and soya with vitamins and minerals. The birds are looked after by experienced farmers who are trained to care for these big but beautiful birds.

Often likened to beef in its flavour, goose is all dark meat, with an intense flavour that pairs wonderfully with fruity flavours such as apples, cranberries and prunes. It is best served with deliciously crispy goose fat potatoes and traditional root vegetables.

Gressingham whole geese will be available from Morrisons, Sainsbury’s, Asda, Tesco and Ocado in three weights: 3-5kg, 5-6kg and 6kg.

www.gressinghamdfoods.co.uk

Don’t forget: If you haven’t already get ordering the meat for your Christmas feast. Get the superb quality you want... so make sure you go local.

The festivities will be different this year but that doesn’t mean you need to order less. Why not have a socially distanced feast by cooking for loved ones and being a Christmas meals on wheels.

Worstead Wagyu Surrounding the medieval village of Worstead is Worstead Estate, a secluded 2,000 acre working farm and countryside retreat in the North Norfolk countryside.

The estate has reared livestock since the 16th century and is now the first in Norfolk to rear and sell premium wagyu beef, practicing the highest ethical rearing and sustainable farming methods. This closed herd is reared as naturally as possible. They even listen to spa music to keep them calm and relaxed, which in turn leads to better marbling and a more delicious product.

From the field to your front door, you can enjoy Worstead Wagyu in the comfort of your home. There are a variety of meat boxes to choose from that include a wellrounded selection of quality cuts, perfect for any occasion. Prices range from £60£90 and deliveries are made nationwide.

www.worsteadestate.com 33

Food&Drink

What’s going on

2020 10 Places & Faces Festive Lunch.qxp_136mm h x 93mm w 13/10/2020 09:11 Page 1

Festive

Lunch and Dinner at Ufford Park Woodbridge

Festivities are going to be a little bit different this year but you can still make the most of the festive period at Ufford Park.

What better way to celebrate than with friends or family, enjoying a delicious festive lunch or dinner in our Park Restaurant - the view is included for free!

2 courses ÂŁ21.95 3 courses ÂŁ25.95 For more details, please contact our Events Team.

t 01394 383555

w www.uffordpark.co.uk

Yarmouth Road | Woodbridge | Suffolk | IP12 1QW

Food&Drink

�e�t��� A

s we get ready for the launch of our Christmas menus and festive food plans I believe that no seasonal celebration is complete without tucking into a freshly baked sausage roll.

At Royal Norwich are proud to be using sausage meat from our local butcher, Swannington Farm to Fork, adding fantastic quality to these unbeatable Christmas snacks. The addition of dried cranberries, sage and smoked pancetta gives them a deliciously mild sweetness, like a good pork stuffing. The only problem with the recipe is that one is never enough!

� l � � � � � a � u �a TOP TIP Roll the sausage meat in cling film first and set in the freezer for half an hour before rolling in the pastry to create the perfect shape.

The Stables Restaurant www.royalnorwichgolf.co.uk

Ingredients: 1kg sausage meat 6 slices smoked pancetta 2 diced shallot 1 tsp crushed fennel seeds

C�e� Da�

RECOMMENDS

Serve these delicious sausage rolls with some luxurious homemade mayonnaise.

Ingredients: 50g egg yolk

50g English mustard

5g salt

25g cider vinegar

500ml oil

Method: Combine all the ingredients together and whisk until thick.

C�e� Da� He��e��

1 tbsp wholegrain mustard 1 handful fresh bread crumbs 100g dried cranberries 2 tsp chopped sage Pre-rolled puff pastry

Method: Pre-heat the oven to 180ºc. Bake the pancetta in the oven until crispy, this should take about 10 minutes. Remember to reserve the fat from the tray.

Dice the shallots and sauté in a pan with the reserved fat. Add the crushed fennel seeds and cook until the shallots are softened. In a separate bowl, add the sausage meat with the shallots, breadcrumbs, cranberries, mustard, sage, salt and pepper. Roughly chop the pancetta and add this to the bowl. Mix well.

Lay out your pre-rolled puff pastry on a lightly floured surface and with the meat mixture form a sausage shape along one edge of the pastry. Fold the edge over gently and keep the pastry tight to the sausage. Egg wash around the seal and cut off the excess pastry. Cut in to 4-inch long sausage rolls.

Transfer to a baking tray and egg wash thoroughly and then season with flaked sea salt and cracked black pepper. Bake the sausage rolls for 35–40 minutes.

35

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A

firm favourite here at

Food&Drink

� e � � � Stour hearts

Ingredients: 500g white flour 100g caster sugar 10g fast action yeast 10g salt 150g softened unsalted butter 250ml full-fat milk pinch ground nutmeg pinch ground cloves

the Places&Faces HQ, this beautiful cake filled with dried fruit originates from Germany and we are more than happy to welcome it on to our Christmas table. It takes a little time to make but it is well worth the effort, and is absolutely delicious.

1 tsp vanilla extract 2 drops almond extract 55g blanched almonds, finely chopped 200g raisins 100g currants 125g candied peel 25g melted butter 225g marzipan TO DECORATE 25g melted butter 2 tbsp icing sugar

Method: In a large bowl put the flour and sugar and then add the yeast on one side of the bowl and the salt on the other. Next add the softened butter and 200ml of milk. Mix together well.

When mixed add the remaining milk and mix until you form a soft dough. Generously flour your work surface and knead for about 10 minutes, until smooth.

Mix the nutmeg, cloves, vanilla, almond

extract, almonds, dried fruit and mixed peel together in a large bowl. Put the dough on top and knead to incorporate the dried fruit and spices as you go. When everything has been fully incorporated, cover the bowl with cling film and leave to prove for 2 hours in a warm place, or until it has doubled in size.

When risen place the dough on a floured work surface, flatten and roll out to form a rectangle, then brush with melted butter.

Roll out the marzipan to about 35x15cm and place on top of the dough in the middle.

Roll the dough up to enclose the marzipan and transfer on to a baking tray lined with baking parchment. Cover and leave to rise for about an hour, or until doubled in size.

Preheat the oven to 190ºC and then bake for an hour. When ready remove from the oven, brush with melted butter, and dust with the icing sugar.

37

Food&Drink

Turkey, cranberry & stilton tart

� c n � � � e � � t � e �

Struggling for ideas of what to do with that turkey?

Don’t fret, these top recipes will tickle your taste buds and use up all of your pesky leftovers for some top notch nosh. Recipes by Gressingham Foods

Turkey leg with bubble & squeak A delicious twist on the classic

bubble and squeak and perfect for using up Christmas leftovers.

Serves 4 | Prepare: 5 mins | Cook: 25 mins

Ingredients: 6 eggs 1 tbsp white wine vinegar Turkey leg, shredded Leftover Christmas greens Leftover roast potatoes, smashed Gravy Cranberry sauce

Method: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Mix together the turkey, stuffing, greens and potatoes in a bowl and bind with 2 eggs. Season with salt and pepper.

Heat a medium non-stick frying pan with a little oil, add the mix to the pan so that it fills the pan and fry for 5 minutes until one side is golden and crispy. Whilst this is frying, fill and place a medium-sided saucepan of water on to boil.

38

Serves 8 | Prepare: 15 mins | Cook: 55 mins

Ingredients: Shortcrust pastry (shop bought is fine) 300g leftover turkey meat 200g leftover Stilton 75g leftover cranberry sauce 4 eggs 350ml double cream 150ml milk 1 head of celery, peeled and sliced at an angle ½ red onion, finely sliced 85g walnut pieces Juice of 1 orange 2 tbsps olive oil 1 tbsp balsamic syrup

Method: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Line an 8-inch tart case with the pastry and blind bake.

Scatter the leftover turkey, crumbled Stilton and cranberry sauce into the baked tart case.

Whisk the eggs, cream and milk together and season with salt and pepper. Pour the mixture into the tart case and bake in the oven for 35 to 40 minutes until set and golden.

Whilst the tart is baking, combine the celery, onion, orange, olive oil and balsamic together in a bowl, season with salt and pepper and enjoy with your warm tart!

www.gressinghamduck.co.uk

Leftover stu�ing, crumbled

Place a plate on top of the frying pan and turn the pan over, once the bubble and squeak has come off onto the plate add a little more oil to the pan and then slide the bubble and squeak back into the pan and fry the other side for 5 minutes. Pop it into the oven for 15 mins at 180°C to ensure that it is cooked/warmed all the way through.

Whilst the bubble and squeak is cooking, crack 4 eggs into the pan of boiling water to poach for around 2 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on top of your cooked bubble and squeak. Season each egg with salt and pepper.

Heat the leftover gravy with the cranberry sauce and serve with your bubble and squeak and poached eggs!

A fantastic way to use up any turkey leftovers by combining classic festive flavours in this simple homemade tart.

Christmas Gifts Hamper

Creator of handmade, multi-award winning artisan preserves. Small batches, traditionally made. Using lots of locally grown fruit & veg

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East Anglia Competitions LTD based in Reydon, Suffolk. We offer the opportunity to take part in our ever growing prize competitions. Having already had many happy winners, We intend to make many more. Prizes from shopping vouchers, 70� TV’s, Weekend Breaks and Large cash amounts. This Competition Company only serves East Anglia so your chances of winning a prize or even knowing a winner are very high along with low ticket numbers.

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Remember like our facebook page and log on to watch our live draws

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� � � L

This is a tasty combo of Horseradish and Pesto Sauces complete with a wooden sauce spoon and all wrapped up in a beautiful bow. Perfect gift to get those creative cooking juices going! £7.95 | www.yarevalley.com

This special edition selection has been carefully created to suit many a culinary occasion. Sold only as part of a set The Dipper, The Roaster, The Dresser and The Topper do just as they say and beyond.

Local

Here we showcase a selection of some of the best goods on offer in our region this Christmas.

For Every Occasion Selection £11.95 www.yarevalley.com

Burn Valley Vineyard

The Rondo is a silky smooth barrel-aged wine with aromas of cherry and vanilla. £15 | www.burnvalleyvineyard.co.uk

Denny of Southwold

Thuya wood is sourced primarily in Morocco, using both the trunk and roots of the tree to give an attractive finish to every unique item.

Heart Thuya Wood Jewellery box £20 www.dennyofsouthwold.co.uk

Delias Restaurant & Bar

This is unashamedly rich and luscious. Firstly, coffee and walnuts have a great affinity; secondly, so do coffee and creaminess, freshly made

by Delia’s team of pastry chefs.

Coffee & walnut cake £25 www.deliascanarycatering.co.uk

Season’s Bounty Woodforde’s Ltd

Love Local

Yare Valley Oils

Handmade locally by Cole’s of Saffron Walden, Nog Christmas pudding is rich because of the unique flavours brought by their award winning dark ale. It’s in good company with Woodforde’s Christmas ale Tinsel Toes adding some spicy notes to the rich fruit flavours. Simply add some brandy crème, open those bottles and get back to the sofa!

In a pretty jute gift bag with a gold medal-winning marmalade and Great Taste Award-winning jam.

Gift set £9.50 www.seasons-bounty.com

Nelson & Norfolk Tea Co.

The newly released product is the result of over a year’s tasting and blending different origin teas to produce a great tasting everyday cuppa.

Box of 40 £2.99 www.nelsonandnorfolktea.co.uk

The Randolph Hotel

Afternoon teas are served on their snowtopped, bespoke beach hut-themed stands and include sandwiches, festive savoury and sweet treats along with their signature fruit scones with jam and clotted cream.

£20 | www.woodfordes.com

Festive afternoon tea priced at £15 per person. www.therandolph.co.uk

Simon’s Table Ltd

Contains 1x 20cl Simon’s Marmalade Gin Liqueur and 1 x 227g Simon’s Marmalade... a tasty treat for all.

Simon’s Gift Pack £20 www.simonstable.co.uk

41

Love Local

South Pickenham Estate

2015 sparking white wine. £18 www.southpickenham.co.uk

Adnams

Ghost Ship £1.79 Kobold is £1.89 Copper House Gin £26.99 www.adnams.co.uk

Panther Brewery

An award winning microbrewery based in North Norfolk. www.pantherbrewery.co.uk

The Norfolk Scone Co. Local company based in North Norfolk providing afternoon teas for delivery and catering for all occasions. www.norfolksconeco.co.uk

Norfolk Gin

Norfolk Gin is a real ‘ginny gin’ that works well in all cocktails.

Available in many retailers and online.

Large bottles retail typically for £42-45 and small bottles around £15. www.norfolkgin.co.uk

Fruit Pig

Used by Tom Kerridge and many top chefs, the only commercially available fresh blood black pudding.

3 x black pudding chubbs £15 www.fruitpig.co.uk

The Oulton Broad Flower Company

Friday Florals are beautiful fresh seasonal blooms delivered to your door in time for the weekend. Freshly arranged in a recyclable jar, which can be re used each time you order, just pop your empty outside the door! £25 www.oultonbroad�lowercompany.co.uk

Truly Traceable

Multi-award-winning artisan venison and game pies from a husband and wife team. www.trulytraceable.com

Baileys Delicatessen

Baileys is a traditional delicatessen, selling local, British and continental fare. Serving breakfast, lunch, tea, coffee, cake, savouries and afternoon tea all made freshly in house. www.baileysdelicatessen.co.uk

To WIN all of the products listed in the Love Local section this month see page 44... Good Luck!

Weddell & Turner

From mince pies and gingerbread, to biscuits, cakes and confectionery - Weddell and Turner bring the gourmet to gluten and dairy-free treats. www.weddellandturner.com

Norfolk Raider Cider

Gator 4.0% - Rhubarb & Ginger, a match made in heaven. Cinnamon Lil 4.0% - Something for the colder seasons, a wondeful blend of cider with the great taste of cinnamon. Wingman 6.2% - A refreshing clear strong cider. www.norfolkraidercider.co.uk Gift pack 3 x 500ml glass bottles £12

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We are a local company based in North Norfolk providing afternoon teas for delivery and catering for all occasions. We take great pride in using locally sourced and home grown produce wherever possible. We use nothing unnatural and make everything from scratch. We only use butter and unrefined sugars in our baking. Our gluten flour is supplied by Letheringsett Mill, our eggs are from a variety of local sources, our cheese comes from Mrs Temple along with other local producers, and our herbs, fruit and veg are grown locally whenever possible.

www.norfolksconeco.co.uk Follow us on

UNDER NEW MANAGEMENT BREAKFAST LUNCH DINNER DELI STORE AFTERNOON TEA CELEBRATION CAKES F O OD T O T A K E A W A Y HAMPERS BESPOKE CATERING

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2 Hungate, Beccles, Suffolk, NR34 9TL Tel: 01502 710 609 Email: baileysbeccles@gmail.com www.baileysdelicatessen.co.uk

Coastal family Vineyard & Winery North Creake, Fakenham Norfolk NR21 9LN

www.burnvalleyvineyard.co.uk

Love Local

competition time One lucky reader can win a selection of local goodies worth over

£450

WIN How to enter?

READERS OF Places&Faces can win this bumper haul of prizes by visiting our social media sites @PlacesandFacesMagazines @PlacesandFaces @PlacesandFaces

or enter by email at competitions@micropress.co.uk your entry must be titled XMAS HAMPER or enter by post sending your contact details to XMAS HAMPER COMPETITION Places&Faces Magazine, Countrywide Publications, Micropress Printers Ltd, Fountain Way, Reydon Business Park, Suffolk IP18 6DH. Competition closes 30 November 2020.

See page 5 for full terms & conditions.

The prize includes: a box of tea from Nelson and Norfolk Tea Co., £20 gift card from Baileys Delicatessen, black pudding from Fruit Pig, a bottle of gin and a tote bag from Norfolk Gin, a £30 festive afternoon tea voucher from The Randolph Hotel, a bottle of wine from Burn Valley Vineyard, a selection of beer and gin from Adnams, a £20 voucher for pies from Truly Traceable, an oil and sauce set from Yare Valley Oils, a homey gift from Denny of Southwold, a hamper box from Weddell and Turner, a 3 bottle gift pack from Panther Brewery, a bottle of wine from South Pickenham Estate, a table centre piece from The Oulton Broad Flower Company, a £25 gift voucher for cake collection at Delias Restaurant & Bar, a Xmas pudding & Tinsel Toes bottle from Woodforde’s Ltd, jam & marmalade from Season’s Bounty, £20 of vouchers from The Norfolk Scone Company, a gift box from Simon’s Table Ltd, a cider gift box Norfolk Raider Cider and 4 x one year subscriptions to your favourite magazine Places&Faces (one subscription for you and one for three of your friends).

NORFOLK

raider Nationally revered Fresh Blood Black Pudding from an award winning butchery here in East Anglia.

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Festive set menu served both lunch & dinner 2 courses £22.50 3 courses £25.00

Festive a�ternoon tea Served every day between 2.30pm-4.30pm £15 per person with Tea or Co�fee

Extra £6.65 with Adnams Prosecco (200ml)

PRE-BOOKING REQUIRED FOR BOTH MENUS

01502 723603 | www.therandolph.co.uk | reception@therandolph.co.uk

Handmade Pies with Provenance & Sausage Rolls with a story!

Phone 01986 835980 or visit www.trulytraceable.com for delivery options & stockists

Limited edition offerings such as festive fireside tea, chocolate orange tea and spiced apple chai!

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Free Postage on all orders over £25 Use code ‘10today’ to get 10% off www.nelsonandnorfolktea.co.uk/collections/christmas

Makers of delicious gluten-free and dairy-free luxury cakes, biscuits, gingerbread and chocolates that everyone can enjoy.

Award Winning 2015 Vintage English Sparkling from Norfolk Delivered to your door

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Winter style is all about keeping toasty while looking and feeling great.

from River Island

I

N NEED OF some new wise

buys for your winter wardrobe?

Then head to your favourite destination for the latest fashion – Chantry Place, the new name for Chapelfield shopping centre.

All change this season with a new name, but with all the stylish winter fashion and brands you’ve come to love and expect.

A very warm welcome awaits at Chantry Place, where stores are stocked up with a great choice of chunky knits, cosy scarves and cocooning coats to keep the winter chill at bay. Or for cosy nights in, elevate your comfies with cashmere joggers and supersoft hoodies. Staying in never looked so good.

2

1

5

3

4

1. Kangol striped jumper £19.99 H&M 2. Jumper £49.99 Zara 3. Sparkle stripe frill cuff blue jumper £49.50 Oliver Bonas 4. Slippers £45 Accessorize 5. Quilted Jacket £60 River Island All items are available from Chantry Place, Norwich.

47

FASHION

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&

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FASHION

& 12

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1. Jumper £25.99 Zara 2. Contrast cuff roll neck grey jumper £59.50 Oliver Bonas 3. Jumper with collar £29.99 Zara 4. Beanie £12.99 Zara 5. Short jacket £79.99 Zara 6. Beanie £9.99 Kangol 7. Jumper with frill £49.99 Zara 8. Trousers £35 River Island 9. Cardigan £29.99 Zara 10. Scarf £19.99 Zara 11. Scarf £19.99 Zara 12. Rosaline military long coat £150 monsoon 13. Coat £80 River Island 14. Jumper £59.50 Oliver Bonas 15. Gloves £20 Accessorize 16. Cardigan £79.99 Zara

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All items are available from Chantry Place, Norwich.

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FASHION

&

Miami

Fo�

18ct white gold diamond and rainbow sapphire pendant and chain £2495

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Silver rainbow hoops £33.95 Fiorelli silver rainbow earrings E5838 £85

Fiorelli silver rainbow bracelet B5230 £176

All the above are available from Cox & Son Jewellers www.coxandson.co.uk 50

HEN LOCKDOWN

came into force earlier this year, Lowestoft based Magnus PR owner Ann-Marie Doggett and husband Greg, Operations Manager, started putting plans in place to make their dream a reality, by creating their very own clothing brand named ‘Miami Fox Apparel’.

Ann-Marie said “I love 80s music, Florida, classic American cars, and fashion, so wanted to capture it all in a clothing brand. During lockdown, I lost practically all my clients. My business only started in 2018, so I was not entitled to the SelfEmployed Grant scheme, I was at a loss.

However not being one to be pulled down, I decided to give it a shot, starting with T-shirts. Greg wanted to come onboard as he could see the potential, so we set about creating the brand. Every detail was obsessed over; logos, materials, colours, fit and design. Once we were happy, we sent our sketches to Lowestoft-based Juiced Media to bring it to life”.

The couple are passionate about putting Lowestoft and surrounding areas on the map. Greg added, “The designer, models, photographers and entire team we assembled are all local – we’ve created the exact look we wanted using 100% local talent!”

The website went live in October with ordering online only. However, the duo is planning to stock their brand in local stores within a few months’ time, and then further afield. Ann-Marie added “We are really passionate about this and have worked incredibly hard over the last few months. We hope that people can see the work and dedication that has gone into this. We will be adding baseball caps, car

Husband and wife team Ann-Marie and Greg Doggett launch Lowestoft clothing brand

The designer, models, photographers and entire team we assembled are all local – we’ve created the exact look we wanted using 100% local talent! stickers, pin badges and further T-shirt designs to our collection with further plans to evolve into children’s wear and gym wear. We want to create a brand that people really want to be a part of, to be a part of the adventure and excitement of Miami Fox Apparel.”

If you would like to be part of the Fox Family, follow them on Instagram and Facebook @miamifoxapparel or visit www.miamifoxapparel.co.uk

available with a Harley Street trained professional

For a beautiful way to indulge yourself‌ Beach Clinic is the place for Botox Injection. Dermal Filler Injections, Lips, Cheekbones, Cheek volume restoration and chin reshaping.

Rejuvenating Facials and Chemical peels.

Skin Tag and Thread vein removal.

Laser Lipo fat reduction and Laser stretchmarks treatment.

B E AC H C LI N I C Beach House, Beach Rd, Gorleston NR31 6BN Telephone: 01493 603102 / 07810 272640

www.beachclinic.co.uk

Randell's Footcare

Tel: 07557 303114 01493 652774

Keep on moving

Gorleston High Street Gorleston On Sea, Norfolk

For All Your Podiatry VideoNeeds & pressure Including the Latest plate gait Treatments for analysis Verrucae Clinics across North Norfolk & Norwich

CHERS U O V T GIF LE AVAILABRE IN STO Retro clothing for him or her from the 40S 50S and 60S

Randell's Footcare For more information please telephone:

01603 737188

or

01263 732959

www.randellsfootcare.co.uk

Keep on moving

URN29_Norfolk_1.2019_Vanderbirghider_HP.ai 1 15/02/2019 12:03:44

Relax on the North Norfolk Coast  

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Six delightful four star graded properties in Sheringham, families welcome All houses have off-road parking, free unlimited Wi-Fi, gardens and Sky TV Free unlimited use of Woodlands Leisure Centre, swim steam and gym. Pool has gentle sloping steps Superb quiet location, blue flag lifeguarded beach, steam railway, theatre, golf course, shops and restaurants, all within 300m / 5 min flat walk

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r & Families Stay in one of our 4 stahou Welcome graded ses

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Enjoy our large family roo ms wit h T V & ensuite bat h/shower/ WC

All landscaping tasks undertaken Specialising in water features and driveways tasks undertaken Perfectly based onAll thelandscaping Suffolk/Norfolk border but covering all of the UK Specialising in water features and driveways Perfectly based on the Suffolk/Norfolk border but covering all of the UK

Superb kitchen / dining areas with patio doors

All landscaping tasks undertaken Specialising in water features and driveways Perfectly based on the Suffolk/Norfolk border but covering all of the UK

Do you struggle to squeeze in me-time and feel that your days off have a never ending to do list?

Are looking for ways to Are you looking for an change your lifestyle to a exclusive, beautiful place to healthier, happier you and chill out, relax, lay back and manage stress better? watch the world go by?

Pampering Spa Day Package Includes:

worth

£169!

T: 01263 577560 E: enquiries@sheringhamcottages.com W: www.sheringhamcottages.com

• Yurt Café Organics was founded with a belief that food can be both delicious and nourishing. Eating out is a treat, and that is why our café is designed to bring you a jam-packed, delicious menu of meals that both taste good and do good, for both your body and the planet. All cooked from scratch in a holistic way.

• Yurt Café Organics is built around good, wholesome food.

Our organic restaurant prides itself on its range of healthy meals. Our menu is full of whole foods, and caters to a range of healthy lifestyle choices, from vegan to gluten free.

• Our menu relies on largely seasonal, locally produced produce, often from our very own garden, to ensure our business is as environmentally friendly as possible.

Bookings preferred

• All day access to the Spa – with hot tub, steam room, sauna, garden rooms & beautifully landscaped gardens.

• 60 Minute Treatment of your choice (Elemis facial & body treatments, hot stone massage, free style massage or floatation therapy).

ALSO SERVING ALL DAY BREAKFASTS! ALONG WITH DINNER SERVICE FROM 5PM

• One-course healthy, wholesome lunch from The Yurt Cafe Organics.

Free glass of drink of your choice on arrival on Mon, Tues and Wed evenings for the whole of November!

All for just £95!

(That’s a 43% saving!)

Call number below to book

Thinking about Christmas?

Potton Hall Spa also have gift vouchers available! @pottonhallspa pottonhallspa www.pottonhallspa.co.uk

07932 278922

Potton Hall, Westleton, Saxmundham IP17 3EF

@TheYurtCafeOrganics theyurtcafeorganics www.theyurtcafeorganics.co.uk

Beauty

&Beauty �ot� The best of

@traceymwilkinson

T

HIS NOVEMBER I’m

covering treatments both in salon and at home. In view of Covid so much has changed and this month I’ve experienced the best of both worlds at The Norfolk Beauty Rooms and at home with the new Dot Agency.

Beauty expert Tracey Wilkinson experiences beauty treatments in the salon and at home.

and E. Whilst this does its magic Sarah performs a shoulder, neck and arm massage. Afterwards intensive serums are applied, along with eye cream, moisturiser and SPF. Whilst I could see the results immediately it was the next day when my skin was glowing and plump. The serums and creams absorbed so well and my make up applied like dream. At home products are available to purchase and compliment the treatment. The Dermalogica Biolumin-C Face Serum brightens the skin whilst it exfoliates reducing the appearance of pigmentation. In addition it firms the skin and reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Additionally the Biolumin-C Eye Serum brightens the eye area with a boost of vitamin C.

At home...

At the salon...

The Norfolk Beauty Rooms opened in 2019 and is based in central Norwich, on Lower Goat Lane, and offers a huge array of services including those with Dermalogica products. I was given the opportunity to try the deluxe Dermaplaning facial protocol which retails at £60. The luxury facial helps to remove the effects of sun damage, reduces signs of aging, diminish hyperpigmentation, brightens dull skin and exfoliates the skin. Dermaplaning is pain free and with no recovery time.

The treatment started with a double cleanse and then a full analysis of the skin.

Sarah at the Norfolk Beauty Rooms then informs you of her findings; which for me was some open pores and a note about pigmentation from the summer months.

After a further cleanse, the Dermaplaning procedure takes place, using a surgical blade to remove peach fuzz hair and dead skin cells ¬ hence performing the deep exfoliation of your skin. Steam towels are then applied for a cleanse and aromatherapy pressure point facial massage follows.

From here on a chilled hydro sheet mask is applied which contains collagen, hyaluronic acid, rose water, vitamin C

Secondly I was given the opportunity to experience the newly launched Dot Agency, a luxe concierge service for pampering at home. They have handpicked professionals ensuring that only the best service will be delivered straight to your door. From hairstylists, makeup artists and nail technicians they can come to your home, office or hotel, whether you’re getting ready for a special event, meeting or just some well-earned pamper time. Not only this, but they also offer services for events, pop up or corporate work, as well as one-to-one tutorials.

Biolumin-C Serum £85 Biolumin-C Eye Serum £63

Katie, hair stylist and Dot founder, has spent the last few years backstage at fashion weeks in London, Milan and Paris.

Her shows include Valentino, Missoni, Dior, Givenchy and Burberry to name but a few, and she has worked with the biggest names in hairdressing for Vogue Paris, Dust and Self Service magazine.

I love a pampering, but to be pampered in my own home isn’t something I’ve experienced before. There are so many plus points; such as not getting rain soaked on the way home from a blow dry or having your makeup done hours before then travelling home and having it slide off before an event or a date! Katie complied with COVID-19 rules in my home, which put me at ease straight away. Having washed my hair before her arrival, she got to work using the most incredible products from L’Oréal Pro, Bumble & Bumble and GHD. The whole service was nothing short of amazing, starting with an incredible bouncy blow dry, setting of curls and then a final curl with tongs. I could go out within minutes of it being done feeling amazing.

The next morning I woke with full thick hair, which lasted the following day and I still felt glamorous! It’s a service I’ll use again and again. I can’t wait to try their makeup and nail services in the comfort of my own home as a treat. Prices and details of all their services offered can be found via their website.

The Norfolk Beauty Rooms 01603 981176 | www.norfolkbeauty.co.uk Dot Agency www.dotagencyonline.com 53

Upholstery, Curtains and Blinds

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Hand made sofas and chairs Traditional & contemporary Re-Upholstery Made to measure curtains and blinds Vertical. Roller & blackout blinds Loose covers Curtain track & poles supplied and fitted Repairs and alterations

At Williams all of our work is carried out at our West Runton premises as it has been for the last 30 years, no middlemen means greater value for money.

Whether it’s a spring repair, new seat foams or a complete lounge suite with co-ordinating curtains you can be guaranteed of first class customer service and attention to detail.

• Ralph Lauren • Designers Guild • Zinc • Romo • Christian Lacroix • GP & J Baker • Clarke & Clarke • Linwood fabrics & wall coverings • William Morris fabrics & wall coverings • Sandersons fabrics, wall coverings & paint

Kitchen Worktops • Bathrooms • Fireplaces & Wood Burners • Flooring • Overstock material for smaller projects Come and see our fantastic, newly revamped showroom

INTERIORS

5 Station Road, West Runton, Norfolk Tel: 01263 837611 www.williamsofwestrunton.co.uk

13 Dewing Road, Rackheath Ind Est, Norwich NR13 6PS 01603 721995 | office@premiermarble.co.uk

www.premiermarble.co.uk

Helhoughton Road, Hempton, Fakenham NR21 7DY Tel: 01328 864743 or 855321 Email: sales@norfolkreclaim.co.uk www.norfolkreclaim.co.uk

Be Appy

Need some new tech in your life but stuck for ideas?

A selection of the essential kit on the app store right now If you haven’t already started then you had better get organised for Christmas shopping. These three apps will keep you on track.

Apple Watch Series 6 From £379

The new release of the series 6 Apple Watch sees the most advanced version yet. Since series 5 the case has been waterproof which made it a real game changer. Now a new blood oxygen sensor has been added to go along side the ECG. Via the completely redesigned back crystal green, red and infrared LEDs shine light onto the blood vessels in your wrist, and photodiodes measure the amount of light reflected back.

Advanced algorithms then calculate the colour of your blood, which indicates the amount of oxygen present. Pretty smart tech packed into such a small device.

Buy&Try

Support

Don’t worry

Bring!

It has never been more customisable with a host of new faces and themes which you can easily change to suit your mood and your outfit. If you are looking to add a quality piece of wearable tech that easily fits around your everyday life, then this is for you. Is it an expensive option? Yes. Is it worth it?

Most definately.

Fitbit Aria Air Smart Scale

We have all done it.

Scribbled a shopping list on the back of an envelope and lost it, or we can’t read our partner’s handwriting. Bring! takes the humble shopping list to a new level. Multi user and cross platform; iPhone, iPad, desktop and even Apple watch. You have forgotten to add something to the list but you other half is doing the shop ¬ don’t panic, open the app and add your items and it will update the list on your partner’s phone. It really is that simple... I don’t know how we survived without it.

Free | Offers in-app purchases Premium: Monthly £1.79 | Annual £12.49

£49.99 | �itbit.com

Costing about the same as a quality set of conventional scales the Fitbit Aria Air Smart Scale gives you a clearer picture of your health with an easy-to-use smart scale that works alongside other Fitbit products, tracks your weight and syncs your stats to the Fitbit app, where you can see your BMI based on your weight and profile information.

Echo Dot (4th gen) £49.99 | amazon.co.uk

Before you buy a smart speaker you won’t see the point. After you have one with a couple of compatible devices you’ll love it. Use your voice to turn on lights, adjust thermostats and even lock doors. Play music, audiobooks and podcasts throughout your home with multi-room music. The new design not only looks better but has enhanced audio to boot. Alexa Dot has never looked or sounded better.

Furna E2 Electric Standing Desk £499 | furna.co.uk

Many of us are creating spaces to work from home. Perching on the edge of the sofa or using the dining table are not long term solutions. If you are going to invest in your home work space an electric standing desk is the ultimate. Been sat too long?

Then select one of the four customisable heights with one touch adjustability.

Todoist

We all love a list. But lets get them off paper and get them in the cloud. Once again iPhone, iPad, desktop and even Apple watch compatible Todoist gives you a multiplatform list to organise your work, home and projects. Capture and organise tasks the moment they pop into your head. Remember deadlines with reminders and due dates. Build lasting habits with recurring due dates like “every Monday”. Collaborate on projects by assigning tasks to others. If you are only going to download one app right now, this is the one.

Free | Offers in-app purchases Premium: Monthly £3.99 | Annual £35.99

Appy Parking

Heading out to get the Christmas shopping done? Then this app could be for you. The easy to use app allows you to see and understand all on-street parking areas, restrictions and operating hours in addition to off-street car parks, helping you make informed choices about where to park before you arrive.

Free 55

� a � t � i Ch�

Go For Glamour this

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E ALL DESERVE a little

Elegant entertaining

3

luxury and probably never more so than this year. So why not add a little glamour to your home this Christmas and welcome the season in style.

Use warm, welcoming jewel tones in seasonal shades of clove, spice and chestnut to enrich your look and bring a touch of sophistication to your living room’s festive decor. Adding hints of burnished metals helps to reflect this colour scheme further.

2 4

1. Spink and Edgar lamour midi sofa opium moonstone: was £1866, now £1699 2. Spink and Edgar lamour scatter cushion opium ruby: was £66, now £60 3. Calligaris secret sideboard: was £2933, now £2599 4. Notre Monde tray table set high: £319 (trays sold separately)

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House&Home

9

10

5

Dine in style Shimmering metallic and glinting crystal accessories can really dial up the bling factor for a luxe dining experience. Add placemats and coasters to dress up the table while a wine cooler and fluted glasses ensure that your drinks are elevated to a new level, served at the perfect temperature in beautiful cut crystal.

11

5. Sara Miller London Portmeirion frosted pines set of 4 placemats: was £23, now £18.40 6. Georg Jensen indulgence champagne cooler stainless steel: £195

6

7. Boltze Aschat coaster set of 4: £45

Luxe lighting 12

8. RCR Melodia crystal champagne �lute: was £7, now £4.90

7

Enhancing the lighting in a room can create a luxury new look.

Statement lamp shades can give a focal point to a room, whilst candles bring a sense of occasion to any table setting.

9. Alivia medium lampshade petrol blue: £269 10. Culinary concepts station lantern large: £79.95 11. Calligaris metal candle holder 7197: was £263, now £223

8

12. Clava lampshade brushed brass: £95

All available from Jarrold in-store and online www.jarrold.co.uk 57

D Fre el e ive ry *

Our family, serving your family since 1820 *Free delivery within a 25 mile radius

Norman & Son, 13/14 Market Place, Great Yarmouth, NR30 1LY

Tel 01493 842971 www.normansdirect.co.uk

House&Home PROMOTION

� l � a � � e d W�n Julie Handforth-Doidge talks wall coverings

T

HE BIGGEST impact you can have on changing the style and look of a room is to change the walls. The look, the feel, the colour. Most peoples first though about changing the look of a wall is to think paint. However there are lots of other ways to cover the walls; some obvious and some not so.

Apart from paint you can wallpaper, and with plenty available on the market these days you could almost be spoilt for choice.

Patterned, textured and even bespoke options can definitely enhance a room. I have seen some great looks achieved with bespoke printed maps of the local area or further afield to create a feature wall.

I have even seen fronts of magazines put together to produce a bolder look. With the advancement of printing technology not only are the products fire retardant they are much more affordable.

Stone, ceramic and glass tiles do not have to be reserved for the realms of the kitchen and bathroom. A stone wall elsewhere in the house can create some impressive and dramatic effects.

Wood panelling is also effective and reclaimed wood is a favourite amongst designers as it immediately adds a sense of luxury with the chic rustic-ness of its natural state. Wood also is eye-catching and brings warmth into the space.

Reclaimed wood arrives in a variety of shades and mixing it up can develop a depth to your design. I have even had a client make the use of reclaimed window

Velvets and fabrics can be applied to walls to achieve that opulent look. These can normally be applied using a liquid starch solution which allows the fabrics to be removed easily at a later date when contemplating a change. shutters on an interior wall with louvres at various angles, intriguing to say the least but it does work in the right surroundings.

Velvets and fabrics can be applied to walls to achieve that opulent look. These can normally be applied using a liquid starch solution which allows the fabrics to be removed easily at a later date when contemplating a change. When using fabrics it is key to ensure you select the right one for the job, giving great

consideration to what the room will be used for and where the room is positioned in the house.

Cork is now widely used in the industry and comes in all sorts of guises, and can be embossed on paper to give great texture and designs.

Leather is great for cladding walls often in square panels with a button centre of the same or contrasting fabric; or maybe a crystal in the centre to catch the light to create a more decadent finish which is very tactile.

We really can accommodate all here at the JHD workshop and offer one of the best selections of fabrics and textiles in the area. Why not give us a call to discuss your next project.

Julie Handforth-Doidge Proprietor / Interior designer at JHD Interiors in Norwich 01603 722 385 www.jhd-interiors.co.uk

59

Life&Living PROMOTION

� � e � n A Ask

ABLE COMMUNITY CARE has been in the same family for nearly four decades and now provides live-in care services throughout the UK. Since 1980 we have provided care and have met with thousands of families who are seeking an alternative to moving into a residential care home.

Meeting people inevitably leads, either at the time of an assessment or even years later, to questions for which people are looking for answers.

Information around all aspects of care is available but the road to finding out, especially at a time of crisis, about specific factors can be difficult and stressful. Able Community Care receives calls and emails on a regular basis with people asking if we can help with their search for information.

Recently these questions have been asked of us...

Angela Gifford, Managing Director of Able Community Care answers your questions...

Question: I have read that most hospitals have a PALS o�ice, but what exactly do they do?

Answer: PALS stands for Patient

Advice and Liaison Service. It is an English NHS Service which provides and offers confidential advice, support and information on health-related matters. It is a point of contact for patients, their relatives and carers.

They also are there if a person has any concerns about the service being received in hospital, have a complaint, or would like to give a compliment about service received.

Usually the PALS team have an appointment system which can be booked by ringing your local hospital.

Question: I am a Blue Badge holder, do I have to pay toll charges on UK roads, such as if I go through the Dartford Tunnel?

Answer: If you hold a Blue Badge

you may be exempt from some toll charges. Visit the website below where you can read where the exemptions are, including details re the London Congestion Charge. www.bluebadgecompany.co.uk

• The pharmacist must be satisfied with the dose that is most appropriate for you to take.

Emergency supplies can provide medication for up to 30 days.

Question: If I am on holiday in the UK and need an emergency supply of drugs I have previously been prescribed, can I visit a pharmacy and what evidence will I have to supply?

Question: I have heard that sharing prescription drugs with someone is illegal, is this true?

Answer: Pharmacists may be able to

Answer: Yes, the Medicines and

supply you with previously supplied medication in an emergency subject to certain conditions: • You must have been prescribed the medicine before.

• The pharmacist will usually need to see you face to face.

• It must be agreed that you need the medicine immediately.

• You will need to produce evidence that you have been prescribed the medication before.

61

Healthcare Products Regulatory Authority (MHRA), advises that any person who supplies prescription drugs to someone who they are not intended for, is breaking the law and this includes sharing with family members.

ABLE COMMUNITY CARE LTD T: 01603 764567 E: info@ablecommunitycare.com

www.ablecommunitycare.com

Why move when you already live in the home that you love?

New and Used Stairlifts Serviced and Installed

Long established family business HOME VISITS A PLEASURE

Don’t compromise, go composite • A front door speaks volumes about a property • 25 different designs to choose from • Thirteen door colours • Multiple glass designs • Thermal Efficient • Secured by design

UPVC Windows, Doors, Fascia, Conservatories, Soffits, Guttering

SCOOTERS - New and Used WHEELCHAIRS RISE & RECLINE CHAIRS STAIRLIFTS

Holt Mobility Centre

For your FREE no obligation quotation

Making Life Easier Tel: 01263 588777

Weybourne Road, Bodham, Holt NR25 6QJ

01263 512911 NORTHNORFOLKPLASTICS@GMAIL.COM

Unit 1A Middlebrook Way, Cromer, NR27 9JR North Norfolk Plastics Ltd

Finance PROMOTION

Taking profits

from your

business Carl Lamb

Chartered Financial Planner

www.smith-pinching.co.uk

I

f you are both a shareholder

and a director of your business, you will probably be paying yourself a mix of salary and dividends. Ideally, your company will also be contributing to your pension fund. However, getting the right mix of these elements to optimise the tax-efficiency of your income can be challenging.

To reduce income tax, many directors take a low salary, but top up with dividends. As either basic rate (20 percent) taxpayers or non-taxpayers, dividend tax above the annual dividend allowance (£2,000 in 2020/21) is 7.5 percent. Nontaxpayers with unused personal allowance could also offset this against the dividend income to achieve more tax-free dividends.

However, if you pay income tax at the higher rate (40 percent), dividend tax is levied at 32.5 percent on dividends falling into the higher rate band – and it goes up to 38.1 percent if earnings fall into the additional rate bracket (45 percent).

Bonuses are considered earnings for tax purposes, so paying yourself a hefty bonus could incur income tax, although both salary and bonuses are corporation taxdeductible whereas dividends are paid out of after-tax profits.

Using company pension contributions to extract profits can be tax-efficient as they are corporation tax-deductible provided they are classed as being ‘wholly and exclusively for the purpose of the business’.

There’s no defined limit on the amount the company can contribute to qualify for corporation tax relief (but see Annual Allowance paragraph). Your personal contributions, however, should not exceed your total earnings (or £3,600 if more) if they are to be fully tax-relievable. Bear this in mind if considering a mix of low salary and high dividends.

There is a limit on the amount that you can put into pension savings in the tax

Despite the challenging business environment of the last few months, many businesses will expect to make a pro�it.

A tax-e�icient remuneration strategy for directors requires a careful balance of cost and bene�it. Carl Lamb explores the issues.

Bonuses are considered earnings for tax purposes, so paying yourself a hefty bonus could incur income tax, although both salary and bonuses are corporation tax-deductible whereas dividends are paid out of after-tax profits. year on which you can claim tax relief, known as your Annual Allowance. The current Annual Allowance is £40,000 or 100 per cent of your earnings, if lower than £40,000. The good news is that if you haven’t used your Annual Allowance fully in the last three years, any unused allowance can be utilised. Once the current tax year has been fully utilised, any unused from 3 years ago can be used, then 2 years and then last year.

The Annual Allowance is reduced under two different scenarios. Firstly, very high earners see it reduced on a tapered basis depending on their level of income. Secondly, it goes down to just £4,000 once you start taking flexible benefits from your fund.

From the company’s perspective, there are tax advantages with pension contributions. Firstly, they normally count as a business expense, potentially reducing

corporation tax liabilities. Secondly, if paid instead of salary/bonus, they reduce the earnings figure used to work out your Employer’s National Insurance contribution.

There is another way your pension could potentially help both you and your business: it is possible for it to purchase your business premises. This can be done using a self-invested personal pension (SIPP) where you hold the responsibility for selecting and managing the investment choices. The range of assets a SIPP can hold is wider than that for standard pensions and includes commercial property. SIPPs are not suitable for everyone – they are relatively sophisticated and potentially costly – so it is important to understand the implications. However, when suitable, a SIPP can hold ownership of the building and the business pays a market rent to the SIPP, building your pension savings. Furthermore, the SIPP can borrow up to 50 percent of the value of the fund.

A mix of salary, dividends and pension contributions could benefit both you and your business, but it is important to achieve the right balance. Do get independent financial advice to help you build a remuneration strategy so that you can enjoy the fruits of your success both now and in the future.

Any opinions expressed in this article are subject to change and are not advice. Any solution described may not be suitable for everyone.

Smith & Pinching are Chartered Financial Planners. If you would like a no-cost exploratory review to discuss your investment planning with an adviser, call us today on 01603 789966 or email enquiries@smith-pinching.co.uk

63

y d n a S Balls

W

e struck lucky with

fabulous sunny weather during our long weekend stay in our luxury Zen Cabin at Sandy Balls Holiday Village in the New Forest, Hampshire.

Bubbling away in the hot tub, basking in the sunshine surrounded by leafy oak trees, a bellowing larch and a towering Scots Pine, it was wonderful. We didn’t have the stress of airports; it was only three hours’ drive from home.

We had the peace of mind that were not going to get stranded in a foreign country due to Covid-19 and we had our safe Zen cabin to keep us socially distanced with our very own outdoor hot tub! The other bonus? Our luxe cabin at Sandy Balls was dog friendly, therefore we could enjoy our holiday and explore the miles of stunning New Forest with our pooches.

Sandy Balls, owned by Away Resorts, is all about safe, family holidays. This holiday village is one of six to choose from and there are a range of high-quality lodges, luxury caravans and glamping tents.

Our ultimate ‘The Zen’ chill-out cabin is new, high end, luxurious and wellappointed. It is ideal for couples and families alike and sleeps up to seven people. There’s lots of space to relax and socialise with an open-plan living area and a comfortable wraparound sofa in front of the 55” TV which makes it ideal for those cosy winter breaks. The principal bedroom has rustic wooden furniture, treescape pictures, complimented by a sumptuous king-sized bed, a flat screen TV and an en-suite with

64

Kate Morfoot, leading travel writer and founder of www.LoveToEatToTravel.com finds that a staycation at Sandy Balls in the New Forest provides the perfect place to Zen.

his and hers basins in addition to the double shower. In the second bedroom there’s three single beds for children, or two of the beds can be joined to make it a double, ideal for a second couple.

There’s a spacious modern kitchen and dining area which will easily cater for seven people. The Zen cabin provides a luxury welcome pack for your self-catering essentials and particularly helpful was a large fridge freezer and a dishwasher! It was lovely to have a large enclosed outdoor balcony terrace to enjoy the woodland scenery and of course, the luxurious hot tub.

Our cabin was situated by one of the routes where the alpacas are walked and led by enthusiastic children — this caused immense amusement to us, but was not always appreciated by the protectors of the Zen, our dogs!

There’s plenty to do at Sandy Balls to keep families entertained. There are daily organised activities including the 30-minute alpaca walks, the forest ranger woodland survival course, disc golf, target archery, arts and crafts, cycling and adventures on a segway through the forest.

There are miles of forest walks around the holiday village and must-see viewing points, such as the Giant’s Grave and Good Friday Hill, providing spectacular landscapes that appeared on the map during Tudor times as ‘Sandyballas’ or Sandy Balls as it is known today. The name was given to the large round sand and gravel outcrops

Staycation

that date back to ancient times.

We made the most of the hot weather by spending time by the picturesque and serene River Avon, known as the River Field at Sandy Balls. This delivered the perfect spot for sunbathing with a picnic and many people were taking the opportunity to enjoy fishing.

On site you will find places to eat including Aubrey’s Forest Kitchen or the Woodside Inn. There is also a supermarket in the village square. The leisure centre has a well-equipped gym, indoor pool and a Jacuzzi, as well as a beauty salon.

Sandy Balls is a spectacular base to explore the New Forest countryside. Just 90 minutes from London, you will find ancient woodland, idyllic glades, open moors, heathland and cliff top walks. Cycle rides and walks are wonderful as you will meet native wild ponies, donkeys, mules and cows roaming the countryside! In the autumn, it is common to see hundreds of piglets which are let loose to roam into the forests to eat fallen nuts and acorns, as the green acorns are poisonous to the New Forest ponies and cattle.

There’s plenty to do in the area including day visits to Peppa Pig World at Paultons Park, Hurst Castle, Marwell Zoo and Bournemouth Oceanarium. It is worth taking a trip to the historic town of Ringwood or to the lovely sandy beaches at Avon Beach.

The New Forest has an abundance of great places to eat with some of the best restaurants and pubs you can find in the area. We enjoyed The Goat at Downton for great food and local ales with a lovely outdoor garden; the Rockingham Arms at West Wallow for the best Sunday roast and

the Horse & Groom at Woodgreen also for tasty traditional pub food.

Highly recommended for top nosh and a great atmosphere, a must visit on our list was The Pig at New Forest, Brockenhurst, a buzzy restaurant within a luxury hotel that prides itself on a local 25 mile menu and most of the food is grown in its own kitchen garden. They have an impressive smoke house where they smoke their own salmon blended with Brockenhurst honey. The varied menu has something delicious to suit all tastes including their home-produced pork, quail and hens’ eggs. We enjoyed the speciality saddleback crackling, quails’ eggs, cucumber carpaccio, Brixham scallops and Poole Bay plaice. There’s so much to try on the menu it’s going to need a return visit which means there’s my perfect excuse for a quick return back to the New Forest!

Since lockdown the great British public has embraced staycation holidays with gusto. Camping and caravanning sites, holiday cottages and holiday parks have enjoyed a bonanza sell-out as people have scrambled to book their holidays here at home rather than their usual overseas vacation.

I don’t think I’m alone, the thought of flying (unless you have a private plane of course) for an overseas holiday fills me with gloom rather than excitement by having to endure endless queues and wearing a constant face covering at the airport and on the flight. Let’s face it, you can only string out eating a sandwich and drinking a cuppa for so long to have a mask break and don’t get me started on a possible last-minute cancellation or being stranded abroad ¬ it would just be too disappointing to contemplate! That together with a possible two-week quarantine when you get home.

So, for me, the UK it is, and where better when the sun is shining and where better than when it’s not? Well, a cosy cabin at Sandy Balls isn’t a bad place to feel zen!

FACT FILE Away Resorts was founded in 2008 and has six parks in Lincolnshire, the Isle of Wight, North Wales, Hampshire, Hayling Island and Essex. There is a multitude of accommodation options, from luxury caravans to lodges and glamping tents.

From Friday to Monday prices start from £443.25 in a Zen lodge and for one week from £571.50 in November.

To book visit www.awayresorts.co.uk Follow Kate’s food and travel adventures on Instagram @Love2eat2Travel and Facebook @LoveToEatToTravel

65

A JOB less ordinary Each month Places & Faces talks to local people who have a job a little bit different from the rest

Dr Ryan Taylor AESTHETICS DOCTOR

M

y job as an aesthetics

doctor revolves around consulting and treating people with Botox and dermal fillers. For the most part, I usually meet people for the first time via a video consultation. I started doing these in lockdown and they have been so successful and convenient for new clients I have continued to offer them. This entails a chat about what the client is looking for and an opportunity to ask any questions they may have. When I’m in the clinic it tends to be a full day of injecting. Botox is usually to the three main errors (frown lines, forehead lines and crow’s feet), and fillers can be anything from lips to cheeks to jawline or nose.

I wanted to be a doctor because...

I’ve always loved fixing things! I’m sure I would have been happy as a mechanic but my Dad always told me to do something that would be easier on my joints.

A typical day involves...

A typical day in the clinic is a busy one, especially since lockdown. I arrive and make sure I have all the products for the day as the thought of realising I

have no Botox fills me with dread. Then it’s all go. For new clients we talk through the process, make sure I know exactly what they want to get out of the treatment and fill in the relevant paperwork. For regular clients, it’s a brief catch up then straight on with their treatment. A Botox treatment itself takes no more than 10 minutes, fillers a little longer. When the treatment is complete, we cover the usual aftercare and make sure the client knows what to expect (Botox takes two weeks to reach its peak and fillers sometimes have a little bit of swelling for a couple of days). Appointment times are a little longer at the moment to allow time for track and trace and cleaning down at the end.

Something that might surprise you about my job is...

The number of botched jobs that come to me to be fixed. And it only seems to be getting worse as more people look for cheap dermal filler. Botox usually doesn’t have the same problem as it needs to be prescribed by a doctor, but anyone can buy a syringe of dermal filler online and start injecting!

The worst part is...

It’s non-stop. I’ve always felt as though your injector should be available to talk to in case you have any concerns.

Which makes the job feel a bit like a constant on call! But at the end of the day, it is nice to assure people that if 66

they have any worries, I’m available.

The best bit is...

Speaking to happy clients! So many people come in a little dubious about Botox and fillers as; 1. They tend to have a bit of a bad reputation and 2.

They don’t necessarily believe they work. So when a client has a treatment for the first time and they see the beautiful, natural-looking results they were hoping for, they tend to give very positive feedback which always puts a smile on my face.

My proudest work moment...

Outside of aesthetics, my proudest moment would definitely be passing my surgical exams to become a member of the Royal College of Surgeons. Within aesthetics, it would probably be when I did my first full-face transformation.

This involves Botox and dermal filler in quite a few locations to give an allround rejuvenation of the face.

After work I wind down by...

Coming through the door and watching a bit of children’s TV with my two year old. Then when he’s in bed, a nice hot bath and sometimes a beer. Just the one though as I need to be ready in case any clients from that day’s clinic need to contact me (which luckily is very rare!).

If I wasn’t a doctor I would be a...

Personal trainer. I don’t know how anyone has the time to work full time, have a family and stay in shape. It seems that being a personal trainer is a two birds with one stone kind of situation!

www.norwichaesthetics.com