£3.50 WHERE SOLD
your
Life
DAVID WALLIAMS
FILMING IN NORFOLK
An insiders Guide
TO SIX RESORTS
CHRIS EVANS THE CARS ARE THE STARS
NEW DEVELOPMENT OF LUXURY
LODGES AND CARAVANS CELEBRITIES / FOOD & DRINK / MUSIC / OUT & ABOUT / NEW CAR REVIEWS
THE exclusive magazine for Woodland Holiday Park
BOOK NOW
R E T IN W & N AUTUM breaks from 0 0 . 0 7 2 ÂŁ s as little a What could be better than staying in one of our luxury lodges, cabins or caravans where you can enjoy the freedom of getting away from it all and spend precious time with the family. At Woodland Holiday Park you can enjoy pure relaxation, have lots of fun and create many happy memories.
NEW
CARAVANS FOR 2016 Luxurious Scandinavian lodges and log cabins all with private hot tubs as well as luxury two and three bedroom caravans
Trimingham, Norfolk NR11 8QJ
www.woodlandholidaypark.co.uk 01263 579208
MEET THE TEAM ANDREW HIRD Chief Executive T 01263 576033
ADVERTISING
DESIGN
Commercial Director: Shaun Coomer shaun@h2creativemedia.co.uk T 01493 742066 | M 07584 162023
Head of Client Services: Andrew Hirst andrew@h2creativemedia.co.uk T 01493 742250 | M 07557 050160
Account Manager: Diane Green diane@h2creativemedia.co.uk T 01493 742251
Senior Designer: Ashley Coomer ashley@h2creativemedia.co.uk
Account Manager: Kelly Smith kelly@h2creativemedia.co.uk T 01493 742869 Sales Director: Paula Hodds paula@h2creativemedia.co.uk T 01493 742090 | M 07765 886189
Designer: Justin Neale justin@h2creativemedia.co.uk
PUBLISHING Publishing Director: Colin Huggins colin@h2creativemedia.co.uk T 01493 742091 | M 07775 858862 Production Editor: Donna Titcombe donna@h2creativemedia.co.uk T 01493 742068
7
EDITOR'S LETTER Welcome to the very first issue of Your Woodland Life THE exclusive magazine for owners and guests at Woodland Holiday Park. Woodland Holiday Park is ideally located on the stunning North Norfolk coastline renowned for its beautiful scenery, sandy beaches, long woodland walks and its charming seaside towns so to help you make the most of your time here at Wooodlands please accept this magazine with our compliments. In this our very first issue we caught up with David Walliams while he was in North Norfolk filming the BBC Agatha Christie series Partners in Crime. We also chatted with Chris Evans the New Top Gear presenter who has given us a great insight into what we can expect from the new series due to hit the screens in both the UK and America this summer. Two and a half million viewers were glued to their TV sets recently to see Norfolk chef Richard Bainbridge chop, whisk and stir his way into the finals of BBC Two’s Great British Menu. We managed to catch up with Richard at his new restaurant Benedicts in Norwich where he told us all about his TV experience. We asked six local experts to give us an insider’s view into some of the most popular seaside towns located within a short drive from Woodland Holiday Park that you might like to visit. Most people have fond memories of the music that made the sixties so special, so our trip down memory lane features some of the big names that topped the bill in Norfolk. We even recall the time The Beatles arrived in Norwich in a blue Ford Van! During the winter here at Woodlands we have been busy creating Buxton Piece an exclusive new development of luxury lodges and caravans located on the outer edge of the park. We have also added a stunning new modern gym filled with brand new Technogym equipment which will be open 7 days a weeks for guests, owners and members of the general public. We really hope you enjoy this magazine as much as we have in creating it for you and we hope you enjoy your stay with us here at Woodland Holiday Park
Andrew Hird
Welcome to YOUR WOODLAND LIFE PUBLISHED BY H2CREATIVE MEDIA LIMITED, Humberstone House, 47 Englands Lane, Gorleston, Great Yarmouth, Norfolk NR31 6BE, 01493 742088
TERMS & CONDITIONS Copyright on all content is with H2Creative Media Limited. 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 venue prior to making bookings. All expressions and opinions demonstrated within the publication, are those of the Editor including contributors.
Natural Park Best Large Attract ion
2014 & 201 Norfolk 5 EDP To
urism A wards 2014 & 2015
Naturally inspiring every generation Open 10am daily | Fakenham NR21 0LN | www.pensthorpe.com Sorry no pets except assistance dogs
The place to visit
OPEN EVERY DAY OF THE YEAR from
10.00am
THRIGBY HALL FILBY GREAT YARMOUTH
N R 29 3DR
01493 369477 % www.thrigbyhall.co.uk
CONTENTS
22
40
28 CELEBRITIES
22 David Walliams on his New partner in crime-and its not Simon Cowell 28 Chris Evans – The cars are the stars – why he is looking forward to the new-look Top Gear
MUSIC NOSTALGIA
34 We look back through the tracks that defined the SIXTIES 38 The night The Beatles pulled up in Norwich driving a blue Ford van
LOCAL INTEREST
52 The Theatre Royal Norwich – the Norfolk home of West End Shows on tour 66 5 minutes with Sienna Guillory who stars in the new Norfolk-based-film The Goob.
59
WOODLAND HOLIDAY PARK
07 5 minutes with the parks CEO – Andrew Hird 11 Buxton Piece – a major new development – New for 2016. 14 The latest range of New caravans and lodges for sale 02 Book your Autumn or Winter break with us now.
OUT AND ABOUT
43 We asked six experts to give us an insider’s view into our most popular seaside resorts 48 We bring you suggestions for a great summer day out
HOME INTERIOR
60 Nautical but nice - Inspired by the Norfolk coastline
66 MOTORING
62 Enjoying the great outdoors – we test drive the New Citroën Berlingo
FOOD AND DRINK
54 Top Norfolk chef Richard Bainbridge’s appearance on TV’s Great British Menu has brought him attention from across the country. 58 The sweetest honey – we meet a Norfolk beekeeper who is “living the dream”. 59 Recipe – Roger Hickman’s Norfolk honey Madeleine’s
05
EW N
Homemade
OVEN BAKED PIZZA MADE TO ORDER
SUPREME PIZZA
£6.95
MARGARITA PIZZA
£7.95
VEGGIE FEAST
£8.95
MEAT FEAST
£9.95
GARLIC, CARAMELISED RED ONION AND MOZZARELLA with cheese and Tomato with Peppers, onions and Mushrooms
with Pepperoni, Chorizo, Beef and Ham
TEL: 01263 579208
AVAILABLE TAKE-AWAYTO FREE DELIV anywherEeRY on the pa rk
What do you enjoy most about your job as CEO of Woodland Holiday Park? It has to be the people who stay with us here at Woodland Holiday Park, there is nothing more satisfying than seeing people having a great time when they stay with us.
What plans do you have for the park over the two to three years?
5 minutes with
Andrew
HIRD
Andrew Hird is the chief executive here at Woodland Holiday Park and also the current chairman of Visit North Norfolk Tourism. In his spare time Andrew enjoys the odd game of golf or walking through the park with his wife Karen and their pet dog Lexi. Andrew is also a keen supporter of Norwich City Football Club. Are you Norfolk born and bred? Or if not where were you born and what brought you to Norfolk? I was actually born in Sheffield but my family moved to Norfolk in 1978 when I was 12– Norfolk is where my heart is, it really is a lovely county to live. I am very passionate about Norfolk and have been heavily involved in Norfolk Tourism since 1995.
Without giving too much away we are looking at the feasibility of adding a new Spa area to the park and also looking into the feasibility of adding some new hotel rooms. We are always looking at ways of improving our customers experience during their stay with us at Woodland Holiday Park.
What differentiates Woodland Holiday Park from other similar holiday parks in the area?
Woodland Holiday Park is a family owned business with a real focus and attention to detail to ensure all of our guests have a memorable stay with us and return time after time. We always remember that we are at the behest of the customer and make sure we listen and learn from them all the time. Woodland Holiday Park with its idyllic location is the perfect place to get away from the stresses of life and unwind with friends and family.
What book are you reading at the moment?
I am reading the compelling Crifton Chronicles by Jeffrey Archer, it really is a spellbinding story with all the trademark twists and turns that have made him one of the most popular authors in the world. .
Sum up Norfolk in three words Big Open Skies
Sum up yourself in three words Customer Care Champion
What is your ideal day out in Norfolk?
That is easy, there is nothing I enjoy more than a long walk along the beautiful North Norfolk coast with my lovely wife and our dog Lexi, Oh and of course not to mention stopping off at No 1 in Cromer for some good old local fish and chips.
Which iconic Norfolk characters do you most admire and why? Admiral Nelson, he was a ferocious individual and a great leader.
07
REPLACEMENT CARAVAN
WINDOW SPECIALIST
GOLD SILVER & BRONZE PACKAGE MAKING YOUR CARAVAN to suit all budgets and needs
LOOK LIKE NEW
Unit 4 Harbour Road, Lowestoft, Suffolk NR32 3LZ
Tel: 01502 502795
sales@oaklandcaravanwindows.co.uk
THINKING OF
OWNING A
HOLIDAY
HOME THE BEST WAY to fully understand the ownership lifestyle is to come along and visit Buxton Piece, our newly created area on the edge of Woodland Holiday Park to get a feel for the natural beauty of the park and the quality accommodation along with the facilities you could be enjoying. What could be better than having the freedom of getting away from it all whenever you choose, bringing family and friends together for precious quality time, pure relaxation, lots of fun and many happy memories. Owning a holiday home in our stunning North Norfolk location will offer you a relaxed, spontaneous lifestyle. We have a comprehensive range of wonderful modern holiday homes for you to choose from. Holiday home ownership with Woodland Holiday Park is simple. You can relax in the knowledge that your holiday home is part of a family owned company dedicated to providing outstanding service for over 40 years. Your holiday home may be occupied during the period starting early March through to the first Sunday/Monday of the following January. This 43 week ‘season’ means you can enjoy Christmas & New Year with us!
Please note All Lodges here at Buxton Piece are designated as ‘Holiday Homes’ and are not intended to be lived in. On a full time basis all holiday homes must be vacated during our ‘closed period’
09
FOR ILLUSTRATED PURPOSES ONLY
10
11
Provence Contemporary & Stylish
DESIGNED TO MEET STANDARDS THAT OTHERS ONLY DREAM ABOUT
PRICES FROM
£149,995
Prices do not include siting and decking fees. All Caravans are subject to change and availability
Versailles
Sumptuous And Well - Equipped
IT COMES WITH EVERYTHING YOU NEED AND MORE
PRICES FROM
£129,995
Prices do not include siting and decking fees. All Caravans are subject to change and availability
12
Parkview Comfort and Style
THE PERFECT ESCAPE WITH A CHOICE FOR ALL THE FAMILY
PRICES FROM
£109,995
Prices do not include siting and decking fees. All Caravans are subject to change and availability
Westwood Subtle and Natural
SUPREME QUALITY AND UNSURPASSED LUXURY
PRICES FROM
£74,995
Prices do not include siting and decking fees. All Caravans are subject to change and availability
13
Milano Explore the Beauty
BRINGING TOGETHER EVERYTHING YOU LOVE ABOUT GETTING AWAY FROM IT ALL
PRICES FROM
£72,995
Prices do not include siting and decking fees. All Caravans are subject to change and availability
Ambleside Refined and Elegant
COCOON YOURSELF IN LUXURY WITH SUMPTIOUS FABRICS
PRICES FROM
£69,995
Prices do not include siting and decking fees. All Caravans are subject to change and availability
14
Strathmore Warm & Welcoming
LUXURY LIVING WITH MODERN CONVENIENCE
PRICES FROM
£66,995
Prices do not include siting and decking fees. All Caravans are subject to change and availability
Grovewood Exudes luxury with every feature
STYLISH AND INNOVATIVE
PRICES FROM
£59,500
Prices do not include siting and decking fees. All Caravans are subject to change and availability
15
Torino Super
Practical with a contemporary design TORINO SUPER RELAXING AND REVIVING, WHATEVER THE SEASON
PRICES FROM
£55,995
Prices do not include siting and decking fees. All Caravans are subject to change and availability
Sandhurst Innovation and style
SANDHURST LEADING THE WAY WITH QUALITY, STYLE & VALUE
PRICES FROM
£53,995
Prices do not include siting and decking fees. All Caravans are subject to change and availability
16
Park Lane Design Evolution
PUSHING THE BOUNDARIES OF DESIGN EVOLUTION
PRICES FROM
£83,500
Prices do not include siting and decking fees. All Caravans are subject to change and availability
Knightsbridge Homely and desirable
COMFORT AND PRACTICALITY
PRICES FROM
£87,500
Prices do not include siting and decking fees. All Caravans are subject to change and availability
17
Brompton Style & Quality
BRIMMING WITH PERSONALITY
PRICES FROM
£79,995
Prices do not include siting and decking fees. All Caravans are subject to change and availability
Arrondale An uninterrupted flow
AN UNINTERUPTED FLOW FROM THE KITCHEN TO THE LOUNGE
PRICES FROM
£94,250
Prices do not include siting and decking fees. All Caravans are subject to change and availability
18
Lilac Lodge THE LILAC LODGE IS THE ULTIMATE IN AFFORDABLE LUXURY HOLIDAY ACCOMMODATION.
PRICES FROM
£124,995
Prices do not include siting and decking fees. All Caravans are subject to change and availability
Sherwood Lodge
THE SHERWOOD LODGE OFFERS A VARIETY OF INNOVATIVE, MODERN FEATURES IN A RESIDENTIAL SPECIFICATION (BS3632) HOLIDAY HOME.
PRICES FROM
£79,995
Prices do not include siting and decking fees. All Caravans are subject to change and availability
19
CARAVAN SERVICES LIMITED
WE ARE ONE OF THE LEADING CARAVAN DECKING SPECIALISTS IN EAST ANGLIA
Our caravan specific decking systems are constructed using only the very highest quality products so they not only look pleasing to the eye but guaranteed to be highly durable and built to last.
All of our caravan decks are bespoke and and tailored to meet the exact requirements of both the customer and the holiday park. We use only the very best materials which include Thermowood® which is produced by heat treating Finnish grown pine and spruce to temperatures in excess of 200 degrees centigrade. During the heat treatment, chemical and structural changes occur within the timber which alter and improve some of its basic characteristics. The resulting product is an altogether more durable and stable timber, an ideal material for use in exposed areas such as decking. Other timbers used for their durability include well seasoned pine
To give the decking a top class finish we can also use a range of toughened tinted or clear glass. The decking can be finished with a unique non-slip, child friendly surface which is also environmentally friendly.
DECKING • GAS CENTRAL HEATING • DOUBLE GLAZING REPAIRS FULL MAINTENANCE SERVICE
CALL ONCRAIG
07879 483357
Crawfish Inn
Holt Road, Thursford Norfolk NR21 0BJ
Thai Restaurant & Bar
www.crawfishinn.com facebook.com/crawfish.inn
- real ale - extensive wine list - takeaway service - fully air conditioned
Tel. 01328 878313 Opening Time: Tuesday - Sunday from 6pm till Late (open @ 5pm during Thursford show). “BACK BRITISH FARMING”
North Norfolk Wizard Maze 12 Acre Maize Maze A f ield full of fun Opening Saturday 16th July 2016 to Sunday 4th September 2016 Open 7 days a week From 10.00am to 5.00pm Admission Adults - £6.50 Children - £7.00 Seniors - £5.50 Under 3’s – free Family ticket - £23.00
* Jumping Pillows * Cafe’ * Play area * Straw bale mountain
www.northnorfolkwizardmaze.co.uk 01263 761255 Hall Farm, Metton, Norfolk, NR11 8QU
* Electric quads * Pedal karts * Tractor train ride
CELEBRITY INTERVIEW
David Walliams stars in a stunning new Agatha Christie television series, Partners in Crime, which was filmed in Norfolk.
DAVID WALLIAMS has fast become a national
treasure. We giggle with him on Britain’s Got Talent, we applaud his work for Children In Need and our little ones love his terrific books. Now David, in his mid 40s, is starring in a big new drama series for the BBC – and it is an Agatha Christie one! The mere thought of another of those stylish, high budget Dame Agatha adaptations makes me drool. We all appreciate a classic murder mystery and nobody does it better than the queen of crime writing.
Sure, we may not know her husband and wife detecting duo, Tommy and Tuppence, as well as say Poirot and Miss Marple but you can take it from me (I grew up on a diet of Agatha novels) that they are just as sharp and ruthless! Agatha Christie’s Partners in Crime is an adventure series with espionage and humour at its heart. Set in a 50s Britain rising from the ashes of the Blitz into the grip of a new Cold War, our beekeeping pair stumble into a world of murder, undercover agents and Cold War conspiracy. Tuppence, played
24
CELEBRITY INTERVIEW
>>
I was probably about 10-years-old when I watched Murder on the Orient Express with Albert Finney and I absolutely loved it.
by Jessica Raine from telly’s Call the Midwife, is a woman who sees adventure round every corner, throwing herself head first into every mystery with passion and fervour, determined to get to the truth no matter what it takes, much to the dismay of her more cautious husband Tommy. This new six-part series, showing on BBC1, takes in two separate stories, The Secret Adversary and N or M?, and our very own Cromer is one of the key locations, with the pier, in particular, looking rather splendid. Here’s what David Walliams has to say about his latest project: Describe the character of Tommy and his relationship with Tuppence. Agatha Christie’s Partners in Crime follows the adventures of a husband and wife detective team, Tommy and Tuppence. Tuppence is definitely more forthright. She’s braver than Tommy, he’s more on the back-foot, but he means well. Tommy is a bit more of a klutz than Tuppence and is sometimes more of a burden. During the Second World War, Tommy was hit by a catering van on his first day as a soldier so he never got to prove himself - this is his journey to become a hero. Together however, Tommy and Tuppence make a good team. Have you had an interest in Agatha Christie prior to this? I was probably about 10-years-old when I watched Murder on the Orient Express with Albert Finney and I absolutely loved it. From that moment, I became a fan and have loved the TV adaptations over the years. I was lucky enough to be in The Body in the Library, the first Miss Marple story in the new block of Marples. I was thinking about what I would really love to do and I thought I’d love to do something in this area again because I am such a big fan of Christie’s writing. I realised Tommy and Tuppence had been quite neglected and it just felt like the most incredible opportunity when thinking of resurrecting the duo. How did you find the resetting of the Tommy and Tuppence novels in the 50s? I’ve always liked the 50s and I’ve always been quite obsessed with Hitchcock films whose golden period was the 50s and early 60s. I believe there was a sudden explosion of positivity after the Second World War so it’s a good period to set these stories in. The problem with bringing Agatha Christie’s Tommy and Tuppence stories to screen is that she wrote them between the 20s to the 70s and the characters age within that time. The books, however, feel contemporary so we decided to put the story somewhere in the middle and I think it works rather well. What was the significance historically of this period and why does it lend itself to this particular stream of the story-telling? The 50s backdrop is visually a wonderful setting, just post Second World War, where these spy stories feel well placed. They fitted because you have the Cold War and the visible threat of Soviet Communism. I also think it is an interesting period as it’s not overly familiar to audiences. Some time frames you keep coming back to, for instance the 20s with the music and the fashions. But we just felt let’s try and do something a little surprising and set them in the 50s.
25
Does the period allow the production greater freedom when it comes to elements of design? In the 50s people dressed in a formal way. I rather like wearing suits and looking smart. I like the cars and I like the slight sense of struggle about it, with poverty post Second World War. I also like the idea that Tommy and Tuppence aren’t living the high life that they might have done in the 20s, even though it was after the First World War. I just thought we really haven’t seen this represented on TV in recent years. Have you had any major challenges whilst filming? I’ve never had to use a gun as a prop before or grapple with a 50s Morris Minor or drive an antique motorbike! Describe working with Jessica Raine, who plays your on-screen wife, Tuppence? I didn’t know Jessica personally before we started filming. As soon as her name was mentioned as a potential Tuppence, it all made sense. She’s come from being the lead in one of the most popular drama series in recent years and she’s got the exact qualities of Tuppence. Describe the location for the guesthouse in the second story. We filmed the exteriors of the Sans Souci Guesthouse in Cromer, which is the setting for the second story though the interiors were filmed in Reigate. The guesthouse is the backdrop to N or M?, which we soon discover is harbouring a spy. We find out that Tommy and Tuppence have different opinions as to the identity of the spy, which subsequently tears them in different directions. What is unique about working in the Agatha Christie world is that in reality if we came to the guesthouse and there was only one person staying, the story wouldn’t work so we need a typically large Christie
26
"The 50s backdrop is visually a wonderful setting, just post Second World War, where these spy stories feel well placed." cast. You need to constantly create that tension of throwing suspicion on everybody. I know from being a fan of Agatha Christie that as an audience member, that’s the exciting part…sitting at home trying to work out who the baddie is. Do you think there might be more outings for Tommy and Tuppence? We certainly hope there will be more Tommy and Tuppence adventures. There are more books to adapt and it’s certainly been a real pleasure filming these two stories. But ultimately, it’s what the public think.
CELEBRITY INTERVIEW
N YOU CA TH UP WI CATCH AGATHA IE’S CHRIST RS IN PARTNE THE ON CRIME AYER BBC IPL
27
If you speak ‘car’ it doesn’t matter where you’re from. And if you go to international events, Britain or Daytona or the international whatever, everybody talks car. It’s like dogs, they’re the same as dogs
CELEBRITY INTERVIEW
THE
ARE CARS THE STARS New Top Gear presenter Chris Evans was in the States recently to promote the new-look motoring show, which will air in the UK and America in May. Lucy Allen caught up with him over the air waves
29
NEW TOP GEAR FRONTMAN CHRIS EVANS will be joined by a host of other car fanatics and stars when he steers the revamped motoring show in May. Chris will be driving the show, joined by American actor Matt LeBlanc, Formula 1 commentator Eddie Jordan, German racing driver Sabine Schmitz, motoring journalist Chris Harris and TV presenter Rory Reid, while the show’s famous test-driver, The Stig, will continue to take the cars through their paces. Commenting on his new appointment, former Friends star Matt LeBlanc said: “As a car nut and a massive fan of Top Gear, I’m honoured and excited to be a part of this iconic show’s new chapter. What a thrill!” while Sabine Schmitz, the show’s first female presenter in 15 years, said: “The chance to combine both driving and filming was too good an opportunity to pass up. I’ve appeared on Top Gear a few times in the past, so I know we’re going to have a lot of fun.” A self-confessed car fanatic, Chris Evans signed a three-year deal with the BBC last June and is now gearing up to present the maverick motoring show, dubbed “the most-watched factual show in the world” which will be broadcast on BBC2 in the UK and BBC America in the States. Commenting on the show’s new line-up, the popular TV presenter, BBC Radio 2 Breakfast Show host and Mail on Sunday car columnist said: “We really do have a bit of everything for everyone.” As all Top Gear fans know, the show was formerly presented by Jeremy Clarkson, whose contract with the BBC was not renewed after an altercation with a producer during a film shoot last year. Along with his former co-hosts James May and Richard Hammond, Clarkson is currently working on a new car show for Amazon Prime, which will go head-to-head with the new-look Top Gear this spring. Top Gear is known for featuring mini-films in exotic locations and 49-year-old Chris Evans was in California working on one of these when Lucy caught up with him….
30
So Chris, tell us about your vision for the new Top Gear CHRIS EVANS: “OK. I’ll just tell you how I got the job, first of all. On June 11 last year, I got a phone call asking if I was interested in having a conversation about Top Gear and so I said yes - I was very excited about being given the chance to work on the biggest TV show in the world. The show has been on since 1978… it’s seen many different presentations, over 30. But everybody had left… there’s one guy called Alex Renton who remained in his seat, the lone warrior of Top Gear and the BBC. So Alex came out to my house, and I said: ‘So how do you make Top Gear?’ and he said: ‘How long have you got?’ I said: ‘Probably the next three years.’ So we started to hire a production team, and we started to come up with ideas.”
LAMBORGHINI SESTO ELEMENTO
Why do you think Top Gear is so popular? “Because of the cars. If you make a great show about cars, especially for us on a Sunday at eight o’clock on BBC2, it’s a great thing to watch. Kids love it, families love it. Cars - they rule, they’re like sport and they bring you a story. Cars bring the idea in. It’s like: ‘Where shall we go with this? Is this a three-day thing, or is this a power test, or is it a drag race or do we put my Mum in it, who’s 90, or do we see how many dogs we can fit in the back – what do we do?’” What was your first car? “My first car was a Mini.” And what are you driving now? “Well, my daily drive is a 1976 Rolls-Royce Corniche convertible. I don’t actually own a new car because I write a review column for the Mail on Sunday - it’s the most-read car column in Britain. I get sent a new car every week to review, so I have to drive that… and I don’t have need for another car. But I’ve got a lot of cars, and I love my cars. But my daily drive would be the ‘76 Rolls-Royce.” What year was the Mini? “Its number plate was VJA879K, so it would probably be a ‘72. My Mum bought it and she couldn’t afford it - she had to go into debt.” Can you tell us about your time in America? You’ve just finished filming on the Pacific Coast Highway and are working on a piece involving a 17-mile drive to Pebble Beach, visiting Laguna Seca and flying to Nevada to make a film at the Top Gun airfield… The thing about Top Gear scripts is they’re more like screen plays and theatrical scripts, because it’s all about action and it’s all about movement. Things have to move within five seconds on Top Gear - you’ve got to build some moments, otherwise you get these nebulous, amorphic films that don’t really say anything, so you have to get some moments and energy. So we had this script to go to the Pacific Coast Highway involving helicopters and helicams, and then the rain came down, the clouds came down, and the helicopter had to land twice, so we relocated to 17 Mile Drive and the Pebble Beach ocean and the drama of all that. We started to film 72 seals clinging to one rock and 72 Japanese tourists clinging to another - it was quite funny! I can’t go back to London with a 24 crew, having spent tens of thousands of pounds of the BBC’s money because there was a little rain. So we had to adapt the script. Then the sun came out, because we’d just rewritten the script with the rain! So it was quite interesting - it was baptism by fire, to say the least.”
Do you have “muscle” cars in Britain? “If you want to buy a cheap American car you can buy them in Britain, because they don’t go for as much money. But you have your Duesenbergs and things like that. I go to the auctions in Pebble Beach and Monterey and Arizona and you have some beautiful old cars; the Auburn with the fast back, what a car that is! But the old cars are more about aesthetics really and the curves - old cars have better curves. Curves age better, corners don’t age as well. It’s very hard to draw a curve without using the human hand and it’s the spirit of the human that gets into a car that’s got curves.” What about the stars of the show, the cars that you were filming? “Well, there was one car - the new Audi RV8 V10-plus. We investigated the ‘plus’, where does the ‘plus’ come from? First of all, we did a normal road test and then we went to Big Sur, which is very nice. I’ve been there before in the sunshine. Then at Laguna Seca we did - what can this car do, how fast can it go, what does it mean, is it really a super car… should super cars be uncomfortable, do they have to be agricultural? You know, what is it that Audi has done to Lamborghini, because they bought Lamborghini back in 1998 and Lamborghini seems to be a bit more diluted now and a bit less exciting. Whereas Audi has stolen the guts from Lamborghini and made themselves better. So does that work? Is that a fair kind of collaboration - all that kind of stuff.” Are you experienced at driving both left-handed and righthanded cars? “A lot of my cars are left-hand drive anyway.” But on the Pacific Coast Highway, you’ve got a cliff on one side and the ocean on the other… “You can’t wander off that’s for sure. But the best car is a McLaren F1 because it doesn’t have left or right, it’s in the middle. A lot of the older cars used to have middle steering wheels. The first ever Land Rover had a centrally-mounted steering wheel and the reason they stopped making them like that was because you had to indicate left and right and your arms weren’t long enough to get outside.
What is the difference between car lovers in America and the UK? “The whole thing about cars is they’re an international language. If you speak ‘car’ it doesn’t matter where you’re from. If you go to international events, Britain or Daytona or whatever, everybody talks car. It’s like dogs, they’re the same as dogs.” AUDI RV8
MCLAREN F1
So who would you like to have on the show? “I’d like to have Seinfeld on the show - I’d love to have Seinfeld. And will we see your Bentley on the show? “Which Bentley?” Didn’t you say you had a… “Rolls-Royce Corniche. Do you know why I’ve got a Corniche?” No, why? “Because I couldn’t find a ******* Bentley because they are so rare! So I got a Corniche as a filler. But now she’s earned her stripes and so she’s like: ‘Come on I was here for you.’ So maybe I won’t get the Bentley any more.” How many cars do you have? “Probably 15. But they come and go all the time. My mechanic has just bought a Fastback Mustang which he’s very proud
- the Dodge Viper film, which is a film we’re going to make in Nevada, where it’s minus 17, apparently; the Audi R8; and a film about the Model X - we want to come back and make that film. But if you get a car that’s no good, you’ve got to point out why it’s not good. But nowadays, they’re all so good, it’s very hard to get a car that’s not three stars out of five. So you really have to start to pull them apart. If you look at the idea of the R8, it’s a brilliant, brilliant car. And if you look at the Dodge Viper, it’s a brilliant, brilliant car. If you look at all the cars out in the lot, they’re probably four-and-a-half stars out of five, all of them. So you have to look at why people want them, who wants them, what kind of worlds are they going into, what can you do around the car. It’s so hard to tinker with the car nowadays because all the engines are sealed units, and that whole Sunday morning drive issue of guys or girls messing with their tool kit and having a chat around the bonnet doesn’t really happen any more. Then there’s the whole classic car world that’s coming back; classic cars have never been bigger. There’s lots of different reasons for it, but one of the reasons may be that you can work on them yourself. But if we find cars we don’t like, of course, we’ll say that. And I say that in my newspaper column. But we’re taken on stories. So think about what we’re doing with Top Gear - the car is definitely the star, but from the car can be an environmentalist story, it can be a funny story, it can be a pioneering expedition in Africa… we can go to Scandinavia and flip our way through the snow. Then there’s that whole thing about the chronology of cars because kids like to push bottles around because they move, then the bottle becomes a car, the car becomes a remote-control car, then it becomes your first-ever car and then your first girlfriend is in that first car. This is the whole thing about Top Gear, this is why we’re so fascinated with cars, they are a sort of unofficial diary to our lives. They’re aspirational, they help as an escape from different places and to do different things. Then as you get a family, you look at a car and you think: ‘Oh, my goodness me, I have to get a family car. I don’t really want to bite that bullet.’ But then, of course, you get your first family car and you realise how much fun it gives your family, and you start to fall in love with a whole different genre of cars. I didn’t get the sports estate - I never got why you would want a fast
Oh, my goodness me, I have to get a family car. I don’t really want to bite that bullet.’ But then, of course, you get your first family car and you realise how much fun it gives your family, and you start to fall in love with a whole different genre of cars of. I used to have a Shelby Mustang. When I lived here [in the States], I had a ’64-1/2 Mustang, which was brilliant. Mine was black with a white interior and my wife’s car was a Land Rover - white with a black interior - so when they were in the drive they were like the negative of each other. How do you keep your cars looking great? “You keep them indoors a lot. You don’t drive them in the winter, because there’s salt on the roads for the ice and then you just clean them or you get your son to do it and give them some money!” With Top Gear, when you encounter a car that you don’t like, how much grief does the manufacturer give you afterwards? “Well, if it’s Tesla, they threaten to sue you out of business and, quite rightly so, with regards to what happened to those guys. We’re still breaking bread with Tesla now, and we’re trying to make a film with them about the future of electric cars, which is actually all about the future of battery packs. So whoever wins the battery race will win the electric car race and it seems Tesla is doing pretty good at the moment. BMW are hot on their heels. It’s the car that everybody is talking about. So actually I wanted to make three films here [in America]
32
one of those. Well, guess what, if your family requires more space, but you still want to have vroom-vroom at the front… Then there are other cars - does the car give you fun or do you take the fun to the car, and does the car facilitate your fun? It’s not just cars, it’s vans, it’s anything that moves. Movement is key to our lives. It’s how we all got here today, it’s around us all the time. People who don’t even like cars at some point get interested in them - that’s how weird the car phenomenon is. Have you spoken to Jeremy, James and Richard? “Not all at once. James came on holiday with me to France for three days. When I went mad, I dug holes in a village called Haskin, two miles away from the Top Gear track and I lived there for ten years. I used to go and hang out at Top Gear when I was in the TV wilderness, because I love programmes like that. I’m a fan of TV and I used to go and hang out at the production room - it’s, like, Chris is here again! On the day that Jeremy and the BBC parted ways, I was leaving my Mum’s house, because my Mum lives two miles from the Top Gear track still, and I was passing the barrier, the red and white barrier, that leads to Dunsfold, when it was announced on Radio 5 that he left the BBC. So that was all very strange. Then James came on a holiday with me to France on our boat and I said: ‘Well, I think you and Richard should carry on, because I love the show as it is. Maybe bring somebody else on and see what happens with Jeremy, and maybe Jeremy can come back one day.’ And I thought that was what they were going to do, and so did they for a while, so did the BBC. That’s why we were all quite completely calm about the situation. I was asked about it all the time on my radio show and I said: ‘It’s fine, it’s going to be fine, Top Gear is fine. Stop the drama. But then, of course, they decided to go, and then that all changed. On the day that it was announced on Twitter at 7 o’clock on, I think it was a Tuesday, that I was taking over the show, the last three messages I texted were to James, Jeremy and Richard, and I texted them exactly the same message, and they all replied. James actually called me before 7 o’clock and we had a chat. Since then Jeremy and I have exchanged text messages, I’ve talked to Richard on the phone, and I’ve talked to James on the phone.” How many of the conventions from Top Gear – such as The Stig and the Star in a Reasonably Priced Car – will you be maintaining in the new show? “Well, it’s all about maintenance, isn’t it? You’ve hit the nail on the head. This show is hugely popular, it’s one of the biggest shows in the world, it’s one of the longest-lasting franchises in the world, because it’s not based on the person, it’s based on those words ‘Top Gear’. We will pass through it; different cars will pass
LAMBORGHINI HURACAN
through it. The reason it will last forever, Top Gear, it’s because its cast changes every week. Most casts on TV shows get older and die. That’s a great virtue of being a Simpson - you don’t get any older every week. Well Top Gear is a bit like that, because cars get newer, they don’t get older. So we have a revolving door of a new cast coming in every week, giving us new stories, giving us new roots. So as far as maintenance is concerned, we have a huge audience. I want to see the next incarnation of Top Gear, I want to see the next programme. My wife wants to see the next Affair, but it’s not going to be made, apparently, for the next six months. We want the next show - that’s what I want. The thing about making Top Gear is it’s not a single, bespoke show - for me, it’s going to be three years of 54-ish bespoke shows. What do you like about the old show? “I like loads of things about the old show, if the old show had never been taken off, I would be watching the new series with James, Jeremy and Richard now. It was brilliant, there’s no denying that at all. So, we’re definitely going to keep The Stig. We’re definitely going to keep the stars - hopefully we’re going to have more stars, bigger, brighter stars. We want to work with Los Angeles a lot, because we know that Top Gear is also vicariously the biggest chat show in the world. Because if you want to promote your movie, you sit on the Top Gear sofa; we’re not going to ask you about your maid, who you had an affair with, we’re going to talk about cars, because that’s what we’ve got time for and that’s what we want to hear about. So it’s a low-risk interview, and 250 million people are going to watch it, and you’re going to have a good time. So we’ve got to engage with that compartment of the business more than we have done in the past. But again, it’s about the cars. What’s going to stay, you say? The cars are going to stay, because the cars are the stars.
34
MUSIC
L A C I S U M MEMORIES Pete Goodrum takes us back through the tracks that defined the SIXTIES. Looking at the big hits and the main events and covering lesser-known but influential artists, he focuses on the songs and their origins as well as their fascinating local connections
T
he Swinging Sixties. Or were they? The early 60s were a pre-Beatle world where the rock ‘n’ roll rebellion of the 1950s still sat cosily alongside the music of a previous era. Nobody threw a master switch on New Year’s Eve 1959 to charge up the swinging 60s. In fact, as New Year’s Day 1960 dawned, the record that was topping the charts was by Emile Ford & The Checkmates. Ford was the first black British artist to sell a million copies of a single, and he and his band The Checkmates were voted, by New Musical Express readers, the best new act of 1960. All very impressive. But here’s the thing; the song he had at Number One, the track that saw in the 60s, was a number called What Do You Want To Make Those Eyes At Me For? Swinging 60s? That song was written in 1916! To get to Number One, the track had ousted Adam Faith’s What Do You Want? The shortest song to ever reach the UK Number One position, this was a much more modern piece. Written in 1959 by Les Vandyke and arranged by the legendary John Barry, it spent 19 weeks in the charts, three of them at the very top. Indeed, Adam Faith would become one of the most successful chart artists of the era. His famous, almost hiccupping, delivery and surly good looks added to his Soho and skiffle rock ’n’ roll credentials. This was home-grown talent and teenagers loved it. What Do You Want? was the first Number One hit for the Parlophone label and at that time Adam Faith was the only pop act they had. That situation was about to change, however, as we shall see.
In truth, Adam Faith’s main career as a pop star was over by 1963; there was a new sound by then. Meantime, the early 60s saw pop music in Britain take several directions. A glance at the top hits of 1961 proves the point. Elvis was there, with Wooden Heart and Surrender. Some purists would say that his fire had gone by then and that the original fervour of his arrival in the late 1950s was spent, but his domination is unquestioned. Britain was constantly trying to deliver its own Elvis, and Cliff Richard was, at least initially, seen as a candidate. His backing band, The Shadows, were notching up hits of their own in 1961, too. A steady stream of Elvis-derived, British stars delivered hits. Each had his own boy next door first name and emotive surname. Besides the aforementioned Adam Faith, there was Billy Fury and the rather less commercially successful Vince Eager. Their records fought for positions in a chart that featured their American heroes, ranging from The Everly Brothers to Sam Cooke, to the sublime, and hugely influential Shirelles. The reality was, however, that, because the charts reflected the tastes of the public, there was a lot more going on. Mainstream acts such as Matt Monro were perpetuating the Sinatra school of crooning with hits such as My Kind Of Girl. Meanwhile, longtime British favourite Petula Clark was charting with ballads, including Sailor; and younger female talent had arrived in the form of schoolgirl Helen Shapiro whose You Don’t Know and Walking Back To Happiness were serious hits and rapidly established her as a star. So much so, in fact, that The Beatles’ first national tour was as her support act!
35
“A steady stream of Elvis-derived, British stars delivered hits. Each had his own boy next door first name and emotive surname.�
MUSIC
In a Beatle-mad, Mersey Beat world, though, Shapiro would soon be perceived as the Beehive-haired symbol of an era swept away by emerging, cool female stars such as Cilla Black and Sandie Shaw. That said, check out early pictures of Shapiro and compare them with the late Amy Winehouse and you’ll see that Helen’s style left a mark. 1961 would also see the patchwork of pop produce hits for Andy Stewart, with traditional songs such as A Scottish Soldier as well as a rare jazz hit for Dave Brubeck with Take Five. And, of course, there was comedy. Enter Charlie Drake with My Boomerang Won’t Come Back. There was something else going on, too. Traditional or “trad” jazz had seen something of a revival. The early 60’s charts contained hits such as You’re Driving Me Crazy by The Temperance Seven and That’s My Home by serial charter Acker Bilk. There were also trad jazz hits including Midnight in Moscow for Kenny Ball and his Jazzmen. Among the trad jazz band leaders enjoying revivalist fame were Chris Barber and Great Yarmouth-born Ken Colyer. Both of them employed a banjo and guitar player called Lonnie Donegan. He’d go on to have comedy hits including My Old Man’s a Dustman, but his interpretation of American folk and blues music would take centre stage in the intervals of jazz band performances. He went on to typify the skiffle craze, and became an influence on a generation of greats including Eric Clapton and Ronnie Wood. And The Beatles acknowledged him as a hero. By 1963 those Fab Four Donegan fans had the world at their feet. The Beatles had served their apprenticeships in the clubs of Liverpool and Hamburg and honed themselves into the unstoppable writing, performing and recording unit that would change the world. There had been casualties along the way. Tragically, Stu Sutcliffe had died and Pete Best had famously been replaced by Ringo. One-time lead singer, Norwich-born Tony Sheridan was also destined not to be part of the success. Interestingly, while working with Sheridan, The Beatles had recorded numbers such as My Bonnie and Ain’t She Sweet. The first was an ancient folk song with a commercial history dating back to the 1870s, while Ain’t She Sweet was written in 1927. They, too, it seemed, were as happy as Emile Ford to plunder material that long predated rock ’n’ roll in their quest for worldwide stardom. Closer to home, local bands were riding the rock and pop wave. Gary Freeman and The Contours, Ye Highwaymen and a plethora of others were playing all over the county. One such outfit was Rikky Lee and The Hucklebucks, who had a rather important gig in 1963.
37
FAB FOUR
It was in April that year when The Beatles made their only appearance in Norwich, although they knew and had worked with Great Yarmouth’s Peter Jay.
38
MUSIC
T
hey played the old Gro svenor Rooms on Prince of Wa les Road, and you’ll find a blue plaque there to say so. Booke d by Peter Holmes, Ray Aldous and Geoffrey Walker for the prince ly sum of £250, they were suppo rted by local outfit Ricky Lee and The Hucklebucks and, of course, went down a storm. What really fascinate s me about this event are the details of the day. By that April The Beatles we re already stars. Love Me Do had been a Number One, as had the Please Please Me album . But somehow the tra ppings of success hadn’t quite materialised just yet. They arrived in Norwi ch in a blue Ford van , and their pre-gig entertainment was watching a film at the ABC cinema just up the roa d. Their wild rock and roll night of madness after the sho w consisted of fish and chips at Valori’s in Rose Lane.
39
Within months of that night those four young men would be rich beyond their wildest dreams and have the world at their feet. They would be the four most photographed and famous men on the planet and they would be the most influential band in the history of popular music. As they rushed in to the mid-1960s, the music scene followed them, and the years from 1963 to 1967 saw a pop music revolution. The Beatles’ initial ‘Liverpool’ tag became subsumed as the ‘British’ sound conquered the world. Lennon and McCartney had realised very early on that, for all its fame, performing was less lucrative than song-writing; you can hear them, especially Lennon, say so in interviews of the time. And as songwriters they were astoundingly successful - there were countless cover versions of their records, as well as hits they wrote for other acts. Even the band some would call their rivals, The Rolling Stones, had their second hit, reaching Number 12 in 1963, with the Lennon and McCartney song I Wanna Be Your Man.
40
A glimpse of some other Lennon and McCartney-penned songs of the time is like a snapshot of mid-60s British pop. The Fourmost had a hit with Hello Little Girl and Billy J Kramer and the Dakotas charted with Bad to Me in 1963, and in 1964 they wrote It’s for You for Cilla Black. The same year saw Peter and Gordon launch their careers with John and Paul’s A World Without Love. PJ Proby’s That Means A Lot was a 1965 hit and Cilla was back in 1968 with Step Inside Love – and there were many more. But what of the other acts of the time? As previously mentioned, The Rolling Stones were seen as rivals to The Beatles, and there’s much talk of the bands representing either end of the pop spectrum. With their leather jacketed Hamburg days behind them, The Beatles were now clean cut popsters and the antithesis of the still dirty and bluesy Stones. However, this theory doesn’t stand up to much examination. The Stones had had a hit with a Beatles tune, and a little delving into biographies reveals a canny collaboration between the two groups to ensure that record releases did not coincide - why risk it? Meantime, something was happening on a global scale and two events had triggered it. Events that, predictably, involved The Beatles, but would spread much wider than the Fab Four. Just six months after The Beatles were tucking into
MUSIC
fish and chips in Norwich, the October 29, 1963 issue of The Washington Post carried a story about the mayhem being caused by the band in England. When, a month later, The Beatles made their now legendary appearance at the November 1963 Royal Variety Show, there was no stopping it; American broadcast media, and the newspapers, were full of a phenomenon called ‘Beatlemania’, and virtually overnight they created a catalyst for what would become known as ‘The British Invasion’. Between 1964 and 1966 a constant stream of British acts toured, recorded and had hits in the USA. Aside from The Beatles and The Rolling Stones, the USA fell in love with, among many others, The Animals, The Kinks, The Dave Clark Five, Georgie Fame, The Hollies, The Who, Gerry and The Pacemakers, The Troggs, Manfred Mann, Cilla Black, The Fortunes, The Searchers and Hermans Hermits. In the vanguard was Dusty Springfield. Her white soul voice soon found a place in the USA Billboard charts and so Britain completed the process of taking back to the States a popularised version of the American blues and soul that had given birth to rock and roll in the first place. But now, pop music had spread its wings and could truthfully be called pop culture. Like never before, what you wore was as important as, and inextricably linked to, what music you listened to and liked. The post war, newly affluent TV generation became defined by one television show. Other shows, including Top of the Pops and Thank Your Lucky Stars, had seen pop TV evolve from its raucous earlier days of Oh Boy! and its more sedate manifestations such as Juke Box Jury but nothing, ever, was as cool as Ready Steady Go! Launched as early as 1963, the show was in full swing by 1964 and 1965. Definitely more mod than rocker, the Friday night transmissions were essential viewing. Apart from choosing the
coolest-looking kids to be in the audience - who danced and milled around as if they were in a club - the show also brought to our screens acts from America. The music scene had begun to divide itself into ‘pop’ sounds and a more selective, less commercial taste. Ironically, the British Invasion was selling pop to the USA while this country’s more intense music fans were searching for lesserknown American performers and Ready Steady Go! obliged. In December 1966 a relatively unknown Jimi Hendrix made his UK TV debut on the show. A few weeks later he’d play at The Orford Cellar in Norwich and within months he would be world famous. There’s a bizarre twist to the Ready Steady Go! story, and it brings us back to The Beatles. During their first appearance on the show, in 1963, Paul McCartney was given the task of judging four young girls as they mimed to Brenda Lee’s Let’s Jump the Broomstick. He chose the winner - the then (unbelievably!) 13-year-old Melanie Coe. Four years later Melanie made the front pages when, 17 and pregnant, she ran away from her parents’ home. In an astonishing coincidence, because he almost certainly didn’t realise that he’d met her on Ready Steady Go!, McCartney read the story and thought that there might be an idea for a song in it. There was, and he called it She’s Leaving Home. He worked out the composition with Lennon and recorded it as a track for the Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band album which was released in June 1967. The album was groundbreaking and the song won an Ivor Novello award but She’s Leaving Home has another place in the footnotes of musical history. An integral part of a - some would say the - Beatles LP, it was recorded by Lennon and McCartney, without Harrison or Starr being involved. The work was unquestionably brilliant, but the cracks were beginning to show. Records were made differently then, but there was more to it than the technology.
41
ORCHARD CARAVANS
‘LEADING THE WAY’
E L A S R O F S N A V A R A C D E S U D NEW AN Siting and Commissioning Insurance Approved We can offer the complete service, why not visit our extensive range of holiday homes and meet our friendly team.
OPENING TIMES: Monday to Saturday 9am - 5pm / Bank Holidays and Sundays 10am - 4pm Great Eastern Way, Wells-next-the-Sea, Norfolk NR23 1LT
Tel: 01328 710394 • Email: orchardcaravans@aol.com
www.orchardcaravans.com
OUT AND ABOUT
sunshine H A L L O
We asked six experts to give us an insider’s view into our most popular seaside resorts. Enjoy their reports >>
G R E AT YA R M O U T H CROMER SHERINGHAM SOUTHWOLD LOWESTOFT H U N S TA N TO N
43
G R E AT YA R M O U T H KIRSTY BURN, MARKETING AND PROMOTIONS MANAGER, GREAT YARMOUTH BOROUGH COUNCIL:
H O T S P O T : Make time to go to the horse races – there are several summer meetings.
Nestled on the tip of Norfolk,
SHERINGHAM DEBBIE THOMPSON, ARTISTIC DIRECTOR OF SHERINGHAM LITTLE THEATRE:
facing the North Sea, Sheringham is a pretty, working town of independent shops, galleries, restaurants, pubs, a museum and a thriving little theatre. Drawn from two distinct parishes - farming in Upper Sheringham, and fishing in Lower Sheringham - today’s town owes its shape and prosperity to late Victorian speculation, driven, like so much in north Norfolk, by the arrival of the Midland and Great Northern Joint Railway and the transformation of this fishing coastline into a peculiarly English tourist resort: genteel, unspoiled and grand. The railways may have changed (though the North Norfolk Railway has preserved a line through the gorgeous coastal landscape), but the tourists are still coming every year for the
Credit GREATER YARMOUTH TOURISM (DAVID STREET)
anyone who thinks otherwise probably hasn’t visited in a while, or has only ever wandered up and down the seafront. Great Yarmouth’s wide sandy beaches are, of course, a huge draw, but off the beaten track on South Beach you’ll find white sand, gentle dunes and two lovely tea rooms, both serving great cake and ice cream. To the south of the river, you’ll find my favourite beach at Gorleston where the sand is fine, and the view simply stunning. Check out that terrace at the Cliff Hotel – you won’t be disappointed! And the new Shed, next to the pier, offers great Mediterranean specialities. Few people appreciate how historic Great Yarmouth is, the town’s architecture is really quite surprising with medieval town walls and Georgian, Edwardian and Victorian buildings on view once you look up above shop facades. These buildings are the background to a story that spans maritime, seafaring and herring girl stories, the revelation of the Industrial Revolution as well as more macabre tales of rows and body snatchers. If you get Valerie, in the little-known David Howkin’s Museum on
Credit GREATER YARMOUTH TOURISM (KEIRON TOVELL)
Great Yarmouth is a fantastic seaside resort – and
King Street talking, she’ll tell you about being born in the circus, and tales about her grandfather, the showman who discovered the Elephant Man, and show you round her eclectic collection of treasures. Circus is a really strong feature of Great Yarmouth to this day, with performances at the Hippodrome, a circus school in the Drill House and the Out There festival of Circus and Street Art in September. Whilst fish and chips are a delicious seaside staple, Great Yarmouth is unusually cosmopolitan with a vibrant food, drink and evening entertainment scene, catering for all tastes and pockets. I’m constantly discovering delicious places to eat outstanding food, from Portuguese bistros to an excellent seafront restaurant in a cellar and smaller cafés tucked away in courtyards or down the Rows. We’ve had some great nights playing ten-pin bowling and then eating out, or going for dinner and then enjoying a comedy night at St George’s Theatre where you can tell the original roof builders usually made boats for a living – it’s an amazing structure and well worth a look.
OUT AND ABOUT
CROMER JO ARTHERTON, MARKETING AND COMMERCIAL MANAGER, CROMER PIER AND PAVILION THEATRE
Cromer is considered the gem of the north Norfolk coast and, having worked here for a year and a
half now, I have come to see that most of the locals treat it as such. They are a proud bunch who work together to bring you an exciting array of events, things to do, places to stay and eat, award winning beaches and an award winning traditional Victorian pier. If you come here for a day out you can enjoy a morning out at Amazona Zoo, where you get to meet some monkeys and talking parrots, as well as lots of other interesting African animals that are well looked after in this recently refurbished zoo. There is even an indoor soft play area for the little ones, in case the weather turns a bit grey. Locals with children ought to be taking full advantage of an annual membership. If the sun is shining I recommend taking advantage of Cromer’s Blue Flag awarded beach (which is not very easy to obtain these days), or try crabbing with your family off the Pier. The RNLI Henry Blogg Museum and Cromer Museum are both great to learn more about the history of Cromer. Cromer Pier has been awarded Pier of the Year 2015 so this is one north Norfolk iconic landmark that should be visited. There has been a pier or jetty of sorts since 1391, however since then and after plenty of accidents and natural disasters with the great British weather, it has been torn down; crashed into and flooded. The most unique thing about the Pier and theatre is The Cromer Pier Show summer show. This End of the Pier show is the only one of its kind in Europe – which has been running for 38 years. It’s a three month long ‘traditional variety’ show and has received rave reviews. It is full of comedy, dance, song and a few surprises along the way. Bradley Walsh – who appeared in the summer show for two years in the 80s - recently attended this year’s opening night and said it should be on everyone’s bucket list. There are plenty of little coffee shops, cafes and restaurants in town to recharge your batteries. I particularly like the Rock Shop Bistro, Rocket House Cafe, Cafe Main, No.1 Fish & Chips and Tides Restaurant on the Pier.
carnival week, the first week in August, for the 40s weekend next month (when the townsfolk transform themselves in a huge social re-enactment) and for the annual summer repertory at the Little Theatre, the last of its kind, where all can laugh away an afternoon or evening watching a classic farce. The family-friendly beach, a mixture of sand and shingle, immediately draws you at this time of year. It has held a European Blue Flag for many years (a mark of water cleanliness and general facilities) and offers good bathing plus rock pooling options! Be sure to call by the Funky Mackerel Café on Cliff Road for refreshments, too! A walk down the High Street sees you discover every kind of independent shop imaginable, and, after a delicious lunch in The
HOT SPOT:
Walk to Overstrand, either along the beach or up on the cliffs, alongside the golf course. It is a great couple of miles and the beach café at Overstrand is fab!
Shopping in Cromer town is a real mix of experiences – there are plenty of charity shops to get bargain hunters excited but also some really lovely independent shops selling beach goods and wonderfully handmade gifts and showcasing local artists work to suit most budgets. I particularly like Upstairs Downstairs and the Garden House Gallery & Gift Shop. If you’re coming from further afield and are looking for a short break in Cromer, The Grove Hotel and Guest House comes highly recommended. Virginia Court Hotel is also another one that is well worth looking at.
Hub, the arts café housed in the theatre, you can wander down to The Mo, Sheringham’s utterly fascinating museum of local history and then step out to watch a truly world class sunset. So plan your visit and then perhaps your relocation as Sheringham is a magical place that retains all of its Victorian charm and has an active community to match it.
HOT SPOT:
Don’t miss the Splash Leisure and Fitness Centre with its gym and great 25m pool. It has a wave machine and waterslide so is perfect for families.
45
SOUTHWOLD IAN MILLER, AUTHOR OF A BRIEF HISTORY OF SOUTHWOLD WHICH IS NOW ON SALE IN THE TOWN:
Many people know the picture-postcard-perfect
Southwold: its sandy beaches, vernacular architecture, the ice cream cone lighthouse rising from its centre, an exquisite 12th century flint-inlaid church, a shaker-style pier, the six cannons on Gun Hill and, of course, the line of beach huts strung along the front like a line of brightly coloured sweets. And we won’t even mention their price tags! It is steeped in history. In the 17th century Southwold was England’s main fleet anchorage and was witness to the bloody Battle of Sole Bay against the Dutch. Since 1857, it has been the home of the Adnams Brewery, which fills the town with the heady aroma of steeped hops and barley on alternate mornings. Be sure to sample the new summer amber beer, Fat Sprat, and check out their simply fabulous Cellar and Kitchen Café and Store where you’ll be tempted not just by all those beers and Adnams fizz, but also highly desirable serving bowls, cheese boards, graters and the like! However, Southwold is much more. It is an island and, approximately one square mile in size, it is separated from the mainland by Buss Creek to the west, the River Blyth to the south and, of course the North Sea to the east. There is just one road in and out. Until the First World War it was a simply a fishing port and the town was dominated by fishing and its auxiliary trades. The majority of the fishing boats worked off the beach and when tourism arrived it became a crowded place as fishermen’s boats and winches competed for space with wheeled bathing huts and deckchairs. Now the few fishing boats left are restricted to the harbour.
46
My family all have their own favourite parts of the town. The grandchildren dash off to the pier, the amusement arcade, the Punch and Judy Show, the putting green, boating lake, children’s park, and a variety of places to eat – they love the cakes and American style sourdough pizzas at the Two Magpies Bakery! My wife, daughter and daughter-in-law migrate to the High Street with its myriad of chic boutique shops. Denny’s has been at the forefront of the town’s fashions since 1851 while Collen and Clare offers the very best designer labels. You are really spoilt with two bookshops, fishing huts at the harbour which sell the best of the day’s catch, a very good deli, Black Olive, and several pubs where the Adnams is said to taste its very best!
H O T S P O T : The Sailor’s Reading Room was built as a harbour of temperance for sailors (which didn’t work) and is now a quirky maritime museum full of photos and memorabilia.
OUT AND ABOUT
LOWESTOFT DARREN NEWMAN, LOWESTOFT VISION BID MANAGER:
Once a busy fishing port,
Lowestoft is now a visitor destination in which to shop, stay, eat and play. The town has long been famous as Britain’s most easterly point and the first place to see the sunrise. The town is set on a backdrop of an award winning beach and The Broads. Composer Benjamin Britten was born in Lowestoft with the town and Suffolk coastline being the inspiration for his early scores. A friendly welcome awaits visitors to the town with more than 40 national retailers along with small independent shops and services. Indulgent food tempts the taste buds from afternoon tea to traditional seaside fish and chips. With Lowestoft being a family destination there is no shortage of things to do for both the young and the young at heart. Attractions include the family theme park Pleasurewood Hills, and Africa Alive, a great wildlife park with lemurs, African lions and white rhinoceros. No visit to Lowestoft is complete without visiting the seafront to enjoy the golden sandy beach. The Royal Plain fountains are a wonderful addition to the seafront, where you can enjoy playing in the 74 water jets throughout the day, then watch the fountains dance to music. The town’s Marina Theatre is the eastern regional home to the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra. The theatre provides a wide and diverse programme which includes musicals, opera, ballet as well as performances from renowned comedians and personalities. Those wishing to uncover the town’s past will enjoy a visit to the Lowestoft Maritime Museum which is located in the stunning Sparrows’ Nest Gardens. The museum details Lowestoft’s relationship with the sea and how its industries have changed over the years. Head over to the heritage quay located on the South Pier and visit the floating museum, the Mincarlo, an old fishing trawler which once operated out of the town’s port. And keep an eye out for the fishing smack vessel the Excelsior which can often been seen sailing out of the town. Located to the west of the town is Oulton Broad where The Broads meet the sea. Enjoy panoramic views across the water at Nicholas Everitt Park or take to the river and enjoy a leisurely cruise.
H O T S P O T : Don’t miss the powerboat racing at Nicholas Everitt Park in Oulton Broad most Thursdays. The action starts about 6pm and is quite a sight to see!
H U N S TA N TO N ALISON CROOSE, JOURNALIST AND CHAIRMAN OF THE KING’S LYNN FESTIVAL:
There is so much
that makes Hunstanton special – not least its situation which means it is Britain’s only east coast resort where the sun sets over the sea. An enviable sunshine record justifies the affectionate nickname Sunny Hunny for a town which enjoys a 180 degree vista of both The Wash and the North Sea. The layout of the resort, with its central green sloping down to the beach and its long expanse of grass above the distinctive striped cliffs, offers ever-present views of the sea. Landowner Henry Styleman Le Strange built the resort in Victorian times and its popularity with day trippers and holidaymakers has never waned. The vast expanse of sand is perfect for a traditional seaside holiday, with a funfair, sea life sanctuary and an indoor leisure pool among a variety of attractions along the promenade. Hunstanton is also a centre for watersport activities including sailing, wind and kite surfing, water skiing and canoeing. There are also golf courses, tennis courts, bowling greens and a croquet club. There are award-winning public gardens to enjoy, a varied programme of entertainment at the Princess Theatre and sanddunes dotted with beach huts at nearby Old Hunstanton where the beach café is ultra dog friendly. Attractive Norfolk carrstone buildings characterise the town’s architecture and the busy High Street has a wide variety of shops and cafes. Close by are restaurants, pubs and hotels and just outside the town several caravan parks. There is a great variety of must-see attractions in west Norfolk. For many, top of the list is the Queen’s country retreat, Sandringham House. Hunstanton is an excellent base to tour the area, including King’s Lynn with its wealth of historic buildings and cultural heritage. There is also Norfolk Lavender, Bircham Windmill and pretty villages with lovely churches. Nearby are two RSPB reserves – one at Snettisham and the other at Titchwell. There are plenty of paths for walkers to explore, including the historic Peddars Way which links Holme, near Hunstanton, with Knettishall Health in south Norfolk. Hunstanton is at the western end of the North Norfolk Coast Path – which passes through an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty - offering delightful walking along beaches and through coastal villages. It can be enjoyed in stages using a coast-hopper bus service. Exploration of rock pools under the famous candy-striped cliffs, a boat trip to see the seals on The Wash sandbanks, or listening to music played on the bandstand on The Green are just some of the countless opportunities for holidaymakers and day trippers to enjoy fun and relaxation in and around Hunstanton.
HOT SPOT:
The Rose and Crown at Snettisham has been voted Pub of the Year by the Good Pub Guide. There are 16 bedrooms and a fab menu!
47
02.
GET OUT &ABOUT
YOU D CONTACT BOOKS TO BRING AN S RIE DIA R OU UP EN OP WE EAT SUMMER DAY OUT! OUR SUGGESTIONS FOR A GR
Balloon Flights:
Seeing the countryside and our towns and cities from the air really does give them another dimension! Broadland Balloons offers flights from two locations – one in Norwich and the other at Broome, near Diss – with the one-hour Champagne option sounding rather fun. Check out www.broadlandballoons.co.uk for more.
48
01.
days u
WHAT'S ON
Take a tour:
Take a tour of the Adnams brewery or distillery in Southwold - behind the walls of the Victorian building is one of the most modern breweries in the UK, along with the Copper House Distillery. Discover how they create award-winning beers and spirits, or make your own gin (Head Distiller John McCarthy knows how to make the world’s best gin!). Visit www.adnams.co.uk for more.
02. Explore the Broads:
Hire a wherry for the day and get to know The Broads that little bit better. Sailing from Wroxham, Wherry Yacht Charter has three Edwardian pleasure wherries available for hire by the day. And what a way to see our beautiful waterways! They provide the skipper and you do the picnic. They can take up to 12 people. More details on www.wherryyachtcharter.org.
Beach cleaning: 01. Take a trip:
Whilst you’re in the area, you could always take a trip on the Coastal Voyager, the fastest thrill in Southwold! The most popular trip is the high speed trip out to sea - the 400hp boat is put through its formidable paces in a 30 minute tour of Solebay. You can either come as an individual on one of the scheduled trips or charter the whole boat for your own party. Visit www.coastalvoyager.co.uk.
AIR JUMPING:
Take a leap of faith with new outdoor activity, Air Jump, at Hilltop Outdoor Centre in north Norfolk, said to be the first of its kind in England! The 16 metre jumping tower has various height platforms for people to jump off (before free-falling into a giant air bag), so jump to it! It will open to the public for adventure days during the summer holidays. Visit www.hilltopoutdoorcentre.co.uk.
Train-driver for the day:
If you’ve ever dreamt of driving a real steam engine, then you’ll be pleased to know that dreams can come true! The Bure Valley Railway is offering either one or two day steam train driver experiences designed to get you behind the controls of one of the unique narrow gauge locomotives. You need to be physically fit and over 18, but apart from that you’re good to go. Visit www.bvrw.co.uk.
Do something really worthwhile by getting involved with the Coast 2016 Beach Clean at Dunwich Heath and Beach this summer (there are dates in June, August and September). By doing so you would be helping the National Trust look after our precious coast by collecting litter dropped or washed up on the beach. Visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk.
GO ON A HEALTH WALK:
We all know that walking can make you feel good, give you more energy and keep your heart ‘strong’, so escape your home and join friendly guides on a gentle walk at RSPB Minsmere Nature Reserve. During the Health Walk (check out the dates in June, July and August) you'll get free access to the reserve - can’t say fairer than that. Visit www.rspb.org.uk.
Take A Dip:
Beccles Lido is a wonderful outdoor pool, run by volunteers, which opens until September. It is the perfect place for a dip on a warm summer day and with lifeguards present, good changing facilities and a café, what’s not to love? The springboard is where we all love to show off, too. Visit www.beccleslido.com for more.
49
CRAYFORD & ABBS
Nissan Main Dealer for North Norfolk
For all your Motoring requirements • • • •
Sales Service (inc Breakdowns) MOT Full Valet and cosmetic repairs
23 Cromer Road Mundesley 01263720808 Gypsies Lane, Bodham, Holt 01263588160 (Nissan showroom) www.crayfordandabbs.co.uk
days u
WHAT’S ON
One Day Only:
Visit one of Norfolk’s hidden gems – Heigham Holmes. This 500-acre nature reserve, owned by the National Trust, opens just one day a year! Home to rare butterflies and other wildlife, the little island, near Martham, opens to the public on August 2. More details at www.nationaltrust.org.uk.
03. GO FRUIT PICKING:
White House Farm, on the outskirts of Norwich, is a great spot to pick your own fruit and veg, with everything from strawberries to raspberries, potatoes, plums, beetroot – and much more on offer at the right time of the year. It is great fun, goodies are cheaper than in the shops and it is something little ones love to do. You just have to be careful that they don’t eat too many of the treats in one go! Visit www.norwich-pyo.co.uk.
Be A Beach Babe: Hire a beach hut for the day at one of our fabulous seaside resorts. Southwold, Cromer, Wells, and Mundesley all offer these very English of inventions which children in particular adore. Ask the local TIC for more.
See a show:
Don’t miss the Southwold Summer Theatre season which runs from July to September. Add on a pre-theatre supper and you’ve got a great night out. Call 01502 722572 or visit www.southwoldtheatre.org.
Go to a garden:
The National Garden Scheme is very active in Norfolk so you should have no problem finding a garden open near you during the summer months. Since 1927 the Scheme has raised more than £45 million for nursing and caring charities, which will make enjoying those summer plants even more worthwhile. Visit www.ngs.org.uk.
Know Your History:
Castle Acre Priory, which belongs to English Heritage, has the well-preserved remains of the cloister, refectory and chapter house. The site dates back to 1090 and was home to the first Cluniac order of monks in England. You can almost feel their presence. Visit www.english-heritage.org.uk.
Tuck into Fish and Chips:
One of our favourite chefs, Eric Snaith of Titchwell Manor in north Norfolk, has opened Eric’s Fish and Chips at nearby Drove Orchards in Thornham. Naturally the fish and chips are sublime – and there’s a great wine list. Visit www.ericsfishandchips.com for more.
Driving Experience:
Ellough Park Race Circuit near Beccles has something new for 2015 – adult buggies. You can test your abilities on the purposebuilt track, which includes crests and jumps, in a 620cc V twin off-road buggy. Enjoy that mud. More details at www.elloughparkraceway.co.uk.
CAMP IN LUXURY:
This year has seen Lord Somerleyton and his team at the Fritton Arms introduce five stunning new safari tents to offer the very top end of luxury camping. Plus, a private dining room will be introduced during the summer for private and corporate events. It’s all happening in the heart of Somerleyton! Visit www.frittonarms.co.uk.
Go shopping with a difference:
On these warm days, where better to go shopping than the north Norfolk Coast, and Dalegate Market in Burnham Deepdale in particular? For the second year running, artisans and local producers have opened up Pop Up Shops. They change each week, so all the more reason to enjoy some retail therapy on the north Norfolk Coast. Visit www.dalegatemarket.co.uk.
03. 51
HISTORY OF the
's 0 8 19
I
t is the home of major West End shows on tour, top-class opera and ballet, and a highly regarded pantomime. Norwich Theatre Royal also boasts a strong history dating back hundreds of years and is strongly bound up in the fabric of city life. John Bultitude traces the story of the venue which has brought joy to generations. The Norwich Theatre Royal story dates back to April 1, 1757, when a lease was granted to the highly-regarded builder and architect Thomas Ivory to erect a playhouse in the city. Fast-forward to 31 January, 1758, and the opening of the New Theatre close to Norwich’s Chapelfield. It was built just to the right of the current theatre and came after Ivory had raised £600 by persuading 30 businessmen and lawyers to invest £20 each. The Norwich Society of Comedians were also persuaded to make the New Theatre their home using it as their production base as well as touring across the Eastern Counties. Then years later, an Act of Parliament permitting the licensing of theatres was passed and the building became the Theatre Royal. One of its biggest productions of its early years came in late May 1788 when one of the best-known actresses of the 18th century, Sarah Siddons, appeared in Isabella for nine days. Ticket prices were increased by 40 per cent, meaning a seat in a box cost five shillings, or 25p. Total takings for the performances were £859, of which Sarah Siddons was paid £423.
52
16 20
195
0's
“Other big stars to appear during the 1800s included violinist Paganini, legendary showman PT Barnum, and the world-renowned tightrope walker Blondin.” By 1800, the venue was judged to be in bad repair and the interior needed redecorating. Improvements included the widening of the stage, improvement of the oil lighting, and a new green room was constructed, only for the whole building to be demolished in 1825. An all-new Theatre Royal opened on January 31, 1826, with one of the most popular shows of the era, Sheridan’s School For Scandal. Other big stars to appear during the 1800s included violinist Paganini, legendary showman PT Barnum, and the world-renowned tightrope walker Blondin. Opera started to become more popular, and circus performances also began in 1838 with an appearance by the Ducrow Circus, a hugely popular troupe of the era. By the early 1900s, variety shows are booming and, for 1904 only, the theatre is rechristened the Norwich Hippodrome. Variety shows are held twice a night which included an appearance by Charlie Chaplin billed as The Lancashire Lad. The Grand Opera House on Norwich’s St Giles begins presenting variety so the Theatre Royal reverted back to its original name. The then-manager Fred Morgan becomes well-known for his innovative programming presenting plays by the likes of Ibsen and Chekhov as well as the more popular Shakespeare and Oscar Wilde works. The First World War sees audiences dwindle and a return to a variety programme but 1918 once again sees traditional theatre fare return. In 1926, Jack Gladwin takes over as manager bringing a host of top plays and musicals to Norwich, re-introducing a pantomime at Christmas, and setting up a
HISTORY
“Disaster
strikes on Friday 22 June, 1934, when assistant cashier Miss Bardwell hears a noise coming from the auditorium.” Theatre Royal repertory company, as well as keeping variety shows within the programme. Disaster strikes on Friday 22 June, 1934, when assistant cashier Miss Bardwell hears a noise coming from the auditorium. When she goes to investigate, she finds flames and, despite the efforts of the fire brigade, the building cannot be saved. Alfredo and his Gypsy Band were due to appear that evening and many of their instruments were lost in the fire, along with lots of playbills and mementoes. Manager Jack Gladwin manages to gain the support of the people of Norfolk for a brand new theatre which opens on September 30, 1935. Constructed using plans drawn up for a cinema, the very first show to take to the stage is the musical comedy White Horse Inn. Despite being in the grip of the Great Depression, audiences remain buoyant and enjoying the chance to see the likes of Harry Lauder, Mantovani and Gracie Fields. The outbreak of the Second World War temporarily closes all places of entertainment but when the theatre reopens, it becomes a home for West End productions forced out of London due to the Blitz, despite brief disruptions caused by incendiary bombs and a crater on Theatre Street. Audiences continue to flourish with a wide-ranging programme which includes silent horror film legend Bela Lugosi in the stage version of Dracula, the Folies Bergere, and musical classics like Carousel and Oklahoma! In 1956, a new chapter in the theatre’s life begins. It is leased to the cinema company Essoldo and screens the bigscreen blockbusters of the day as well as hosting wrestling tournaments, and pop concerts featuring the likes of Adam Faith, Lulu, Cliff Richard and the late Cilla Black. Essoldo make a success of the venue but things take a step backwards when an application for a bingo licence is turned down. When the building’s future looks to be in doubt, the city council steps in and the theatre is once again re-launched, this time with the hit musical Robert and Elizabeth. One of the great names bound up with the theatre’s history, Dick Condon, takes over as manager in 1972. The consummate Irish showman puts the theatre on the map both locally and
nationally, and three years later, he produces his very first inhouse pantomime Aladdin, which features long-term Norwich Theatre Royal panto star Yvonne Marsh as principal boy. The theatre’s future is then thrown back into the spotlight in 1989 with the death of Dick Condon. This, coupled with accounting problems and increasing issues being able to meet the technical demands of touring companies, puts the building’s future in doubt. Local councils, the Foundation for Sport and the Arts, private sector backers, and thousands of local theatregoers help to safeguard its future. Norwich Theatre Royal re-opens on November 24, 1992, after a two-and-a-half-year refurbishment, with acclaimed West End and touring producer Peter Wilson at the helm. It boasts vastly improved technical facilities, much better frontof-house facilities and enhanced disabled access. Five years in, Peter and his team won international acclaim for a presentation of Wagner’s Ring Cycle by the Norwegian National Opera. It totally sold out becoming a major cultural first for Norwich and East Anglia. 2007 saw the building modernised by being joined to the neighbouring Dencora House. This meant Front of House was re-shaped allowing the creation of a restaurant, better bar and sales areas, more toilets and lifts, and a new glass frontage. The ventilation system was also improved and a new sound-system was installed in the auditorium transforming the acoustics to concert hall standard. 31 January 2008 saw the Theatre Royal mark its 250th birthday on its current site and the building’s story continued. Since then it has continued to present a wide-ranging programme ranging from lavish productions of West End favourites like Shrek and Jersey Boys through to regular visits from renowned companies like Matthew Bourne’s New Adventures, Northern Ballet and Glyndebourne, through to a strong drama programme with productions like Hobson’s Choice starring Martin Shaw, and the lavish The James Plays chronicling the stories of James I, II and III of Scotland. The theatre is also cementing its reputation and work as an educational charity with the building of Stage Two, a purposebuilt centre for all its learning work and a new home for its arts course, which is scheduled to open in autumn 2016 ensuring its theatrical legacy for years to come.
53
MAN OF THE
PEOPLE Richard Bainbridge’s appearance on TV’s Great British Menu has brought him attention from across the country, as Carolyn Atkins discovers
54
FOOD REVIEW
Pictures by RICH BROWN @MRRICHBROWN
R
ichard Bainbridge is a popular man.
Two-and-a-half million people were glued to their television screens recently while the Norwich chef chopped, whisked and stirred his way into the finals of BBC Two’s Great British Menu and, as he sits at a table by the window in Benedicts, his recently-opened city restaurant, countless people smile and wave at him as they walk past. This was the fourth time that Richard had appeared on the popular TV programme and the first time that his dishes made it on to the final menu. He beat other contenders Pip Lacey, head chef at London’s Murano, and Jason Hodnett, head chef at The Raven Hotel in Shropshire, to represent the Central region and went on to cook his cuisine at a lavish banquet at London’s Drapers’ Hall marking the 100th anniversary of the Women’s Institute. This celebration of inspirational women struck a chord with Richard, who was brought up single-handedly by his mother, Jill, and whose German wife Katja and baby daughter, Holly Hilda, have been both his support and his motivation. And while the other finalists, Michael O’Hare, who runs The Man Behind The Curtain in Leeds, and Matt Gillan, head chef at The Pass at the South Lodge Hotel in Surrey, created the fish course and main course respectively for the banquet, Richard was tasked with two courses, both inspired by the WI: a striking starter called We All Stand For Jerusalem and a luxuriouslooking dessert, Inspiring Women, which paid homage to his late grandmother, “Nanny Bush”, and his sister, Gemma Boyd. Served in rustic pottery bowls from Made In Cley in north Norfolk and brought out to
the rousing hymn, Jerusalem, Richard’s starter featured Jerusalem artichoke, parsley sponge, poached yolk, lamb loin and pearl barley risotto, while the desserts were pretty, individual-sized summer trifles served with Sister B’s Cocktail – effectively a Victoria sponge cake in a glass. The banquet went perfectly and social media went mad. Richard says: “Everybody had supported me, so I was really focused on trying to make sure that it was perfect and that everybody really enjoyed it. I was so happy and proud to be there.” People around the country were rooting for him to do well, with people stopping Richard in the street to congratulate him and 3,000 people following him on Twitter in just one week. Richard is incredibly thankful for their support and took the time to answer everyone’s tweets personally. He says: “For people to take the time to come up to say: ‘You did really well on Great British Menu’ means loads. Like on Twitter – it took me two-and-a-half hours every single night after work to say; ‘Thank you very much, I really appreciate it’… “I think the least I can do is reply personally and say: ‘Thank you, I really appreciate your thoughts.’ I was overwhelmed really, because when I served my dessert on the Thursday, the first time, my computer crashed twice with Twitter – it was ridiculous!” While Richard’s TV success may have been a long time coming, he has been successful off-screen for many years. Having spent the last seven as head chef at Michelin-starred Morston Hall in north Norfolk, Richard has also worked at many other top restaurants including the Roux brothers’ acclaimed Waterside Inn in Bray and Kevin Thornton’s in Dublin. He has also spent
55
stints in New York and in New Zealand, where he met his wife-to-be Katja. His first job was washing dishes in the kitchens at The Bull pub in Hellesdon, which his mother secured for him when he was just 13 (she worked part-time there doing their book-keeping). And after going to school in Hellesdon and training to be a chef at City College, Norwich, Richard hasn’t looked back. He says: “The amazing thing is, the day after my 13th birthday, at six o’clock, I started my first shift in the kitchen and the day after my 33rd birthday, at six o’clock on the Friday, I walked through the door of my own restaurant.” Word has spread about Benedicts, Richard’s rustic-looking neighbourhood restaurant on St Benedict’s Street in Norwich, with Friday and Saturday nights now fully booked months in advance and people travelling from around the country to try his food. Richard confides: “The great thing for me is that we can now really concentrate on making Benedicts great. We’ve got the people coming in, so we’ve just got to make sure that they have a great time.” Of course, all Richard’s dishes from the Great British Menu are available at Benedicts and customers have even been ordering the famous Victoria Sponge cocktail as a starter. The Jerusalem artichoke starter is served in the same bowls as it was on TV, with the words “Jerusalem”, “educate” and “inspire” around
56
the edge, and the attractive trifles are served in the little cloth tents that Katja made for the TV programme, where the presentation of the food was just as important as its taste. The dishes certainly impressed the judges – restaurateurs Prue Leith and Oliver Peyton and food writer Matthew Fort, who were joined by representatives from the WI. Richard explains that he couldn’t have had the TV success without the support from his family, or from his team. He has surrounded himself with familiar staff at Benedicts, with restaurant manager Maddy Johnson and sous chef Ashley Williamson both having worked with him at Morston Hall. Richard is thankful for Galton Blackiston’s support, saying: “Morston Hall has got a dear, dear place in my heart. I owe Galt a lot.” And, as Richard says, the Great British Menu “couldn’t have been timed any better”; Benedicts opened on June 17 and Richard confides: “I’m so happy that, because we know the bookings are there so far in advance, we can now just really concentrate on the daily running, making sure everything is perfect.” He is at the new restaurant six days a week, with Sundays nicknamed “Hollyday” – a big family day that centres around the couple’s 18-month daughter. Meanwhile, Tuesdays and Saturdays are Benedicts’ busiest days (it’s open for lunch and dinner from Tuesday to Saturday) and those familiar with Richard’s food from Morston Hall will know that it is
focused on local produce and seasonality. Richard spent seven years as head chef at the Michelin-starred Morston Hall, while his time on the Great British Menu meant that he has also got to know some other big name chefs such as Tom Kerridge from The Hand & Flowers in Marlow and Daniel Clifford from Midsummer House in Cambridge. Richard says: “Daniel Clifford is like my big brother - he’s been so supportive in the setting up of Benedicts.” However, Richard adds: “I’m not a chef who wants a big, flash car or who wants to be everywhere; I just want a really successful restaurant.” He and his team eat together every afternoon, along with his baby daughter, and Richard says: “It’s their restaurant as much as it is mine.” But creating great food is Richard’s overall driving force, as well as investing in the 50-seat restaurant as time goes on. The restaurant has 34 covers downstairs and 16 upstairs in an elegant private dining room which caters for parties (eight is the maximum number for a table downstairs). Richard and his wife Katja re-mortgaged their house in Briston, north Norfolk, in order to take on Benedicts, which they have invested in on their own, and they stay in their flat above the Norwich restaurant five nights a week. Richard’s Mum Jill continues to be supportive, looking after little Holly Hilda while Richard and Katja work in the restaurant downstairs. Richard says: “We looked all around Norfolk – we went from guesthouses to pubs, to restaurants to bistros, and then it got to the point where we went, well if we’re going to open, you might as well stick me in the middle of the lion’s den!” He adds: “We’re lucky, we’ve had Michelin in twice already – we had Michelin and AA within two weeks through the door and then Michelin have already been again. “The big thing for me is that if people are happy and they’re enjoying my food, and my staff are happy and proud of where we work and that doesn’t come with a Michelin star, then I’m happy. If a Michelin star came our way, then I would obviously embrace it with open arms.” However, Richard confesses that gaining a Michelin star is: “Not at the top of my agenda at the moment – it’s making sure that people are happy and they want to come back.” Judging by the number of people waving and smiling at Richard as they pass the restaurant’s window, it certainly looks as if he has got plenty of potential customers.
Benedicts
is at 9 St Benedict’s Street, Norwich, NR2 4PE, 01603 926080. @chefbainbridge @restbenedicts | www.facebook.com/restbenedicts www.restaurantbenedicts.com
57
|| MAY 2015 2015 |MAY MAY 2015
the sweetest the thesweetest sweetest
honey honey
ANDY NEWMAN MEETS A NORFOLK BEEKEEPER WHO IS ‘LIVING THE DREAM’, WHILST ANDY MEETS ANDY NEWMAN MEETS A AANORFOLK NORFOLK ANDYNEWMAN NEWMAN NORFOLK ROGER HICKMANMEETS REMEMBERS BEEKEEPER WHO BEEKEEPER WHO ISIS‘LIVING ‘LIVING THE BEEKEEPER WHOIS ‘LIVINGTHE THE TIMES PAST WITH SOME DREAM’, ROGER HICKMAN DREAM’, WHILST ROGER HICKMAN DREAM’,WHILST WHILST ROGER HICKMAN DELICIOUS HONEY MADELEINES REMEMBERS REMEMBERS TIMES PAST WITH SOME REMEMBERSTIMES TIMESPAST PASTWITH WITHSOME SOME DELICIOUS HONEY MADELEINES DELICIOUS HONEY MADELEINES F GETTING BACK TO NATURE is what you are looking for, DELICIOUS HONEY MADELEINES
II
then there are few occupations more suitable than food production. Whether it is growing crops, rearing animals or foraging for ingredients, living in sync with the rhythms of naturalBACK worldTO is sure to play awhat part. FFthe GETTING NATURE isisis what you are looking BACK NATURE you are looking FGETTING GETTING BACKTO TO NATURE what you are looking But there are few types of food production as natural for, then there are few occupations more suitable than food for, suitable than food for,then thenthere thereare arefew fewoccupations occupationsmore more suitable than foodas making production. honey. Perhaps this explains the huge growth inanimals beekeeping Whether it is growing crops, rearing or production. Whether it is growing crops, rearing animals oror production. Whether it is growing crops, rearing animals as a hobby – membership of theliving British Beekeeping Association has foraging for ingredients, in sync with the rhythms of the foraging for ingredients, living inin sync with the rhythms ofof the foraging for ingredients, living sync with the rhythms the nearly doubled over the past six years, with their 24,000 members natural world is sure to play a part. natural naturalworld worldisissure suretotoplay playa apart. part. responsible forthere anything uptypes to three billion honey bees. But are few of food production as natural as But are few ofof food production asas natural asas Butthere there are fewtypes types food production natural Like so many other types of foodstuff, Norfolk isin great placeas to making honey. Perhaps this explains the huge growth beekeeping making honey. Perhaps this explains the huge growth inain beekeeping making honey. Perhaps this explains the huge growth beekeepingas as make honey. It’s not that our county’s bees are in anywayhas superior aahobby – membership of the British Beekeeping Association nearly hobby – membership of the British Beekeeping Association has nearly a hobby – membership of the British Beekeeping Association has nearly to those working insix other counties; it is24,000 the sheer varietyresponsible of plant life, doubled over the past years, with their members doubled over the past six years, with their members responsible doubled over the past six years, with their24,000 24,000 members responsible and hence pollen, which makes this region such a honey-pot. for anything up to three billion honey bees. for foranything anythingupuptotothree threebillion billionhoney honeybees. bees. I first met Leigh Goodsell at the Creake Abbey farmers’ market. Like so many other types of foodstuff, Norfolk isisis aagreat place to make Like soso many other types ofof foodstuff, Norfolk place toto make Like many other types foodstuff, Norfolk agreat great place make LeighIt’s is anot talented photographer, and for many superior years made his living honey. that our county’s bees are in anyway to those honey. that our county’s bees are in anyway superior toto those honey.It’s It’snot not that our county’s bees are in anyway superior those in the commercial and advertising world. Butof over the past six years working in other counties; ititis the sheer variety plant life, and hence working inin other counties; the sheer variety of plant life, and hence working other counties; itisis the sheer variety of plant life, and hence he has slowly builtthis up aregion second career, and one which clearly gives pollen, which makes such aahoney-pot. pollen, which makes this such pollen, which makes thisregion region such ahoney-pot. honey-pot. him a great deal Goodsell of pleasure. Leigh is a Abbey beekeeper, andmarket. markets his IIfirst met Leigh at the Creake farmers’ Leigh first met Leigh Goodsell atat the Creake Abbey farmers’ market. Leigh I first met Leigh Goodsell the Creake Abbey farmers’ market. Leigh Norfolk honey under the simple moniker ‘Leigh’s Bees’. isisamazing aisatalented photographer, and for many years made his living in the talented photographer, and for many years made his living in the a talented photographer, and for many years made his living in the Beekeeping is not new world. to 49-year-old Leigh. He started at has commercial and advertising But over the past six years he commercial and advertising world. But over the past six years he has commercial and advertising world. But over the past six years hethe has tender age of 10 in his home town of Snettisham; his best friend kept slowly built up a second career, and one which clearly gives him aagreat slowly slowlybuilt builtupupa asecond secondcareer, career,and andone onewhich whichclearly clearlygives giveshim him agreat great bees, and as isLeigh the way with youngand boys, he wanted to do the same. deal of pleasure. is a beekeeper, markets his amazing Norfolk deal of pleasure. Leigh is a beekeeper, and markets his amazing Norfolk deal of pleasure. Leigh is a beekeeper, and markets his amazing Norfolk His mother encouraged him in‘Leigh’s what heBees’. calls a ‘floaty sandals type of honey under the simple moniker honey under the simple moniker ‘Leigh’s honey under the simple moniker ‘Leigh’sBees’. Bees’. way’, until repeated stinging drove her back indoors and lefttender Leigh to Beekeeping is not new to 49-year-old Leigh. He started at the Beekeeping He started atat the Beekeepingisisnot notnew newtoto49-year-old 49-year-oldLeigh. Leigh. He started thetender tender nurture his bees ontown his own. age of 10 in his home of Snettisham; his best friend kept bees, and age ofof 1010 in his home town ofof Snettisham; his best friend kept bees, and age in his home town Snettisham; his best friend kept bees, and interest stayed with him, and keeping bees hasHis been part of as isisThe the way with young boys, he wanted to do the same. mother asas the way with young boys, hehe wanted toto dodo the same. His mother is the way with young boys, wanted the same. His mother Leigh’s lifehim since that moment. it was onlytype six years ago, when the encouraged in what he calls aaBut ‘floaty sandals of way’, until encouraged inin what hehe calls sandals type ofof way’, until encouragedhim him what calls a‘floaty ‘floaty sandals type way’, until idea of stinging turning his interest intoindoors a business first crystallised. repeated drove her back and left Leigh to nurture his repeated stinging drove her back and left Leigh toto nurture his repeated stinging drove her backindoors indoors and left Leigh nurture his ‘Like many people I had been re-evaluating what I did for a living,’ bees on his own. bees onon his own. bees his own.
58 68 68 68
Leigh’s Bees Norfolk honey Leigh’s Bees Norfolk honey Leigh’s Bees Norfolk honey Leigh’s Bees Norfolk honey is available from number is from aaanumber isavailable available from is available from anumber number of retail outlets, including of retail outlets, including ofof retail outlets, including retail outlets, including Humble Pie at Burnham Humble Pie at Burnham Humble Pie atat Burnham Humble Pie Burnham Market, Drove Orchards Market, Drove Orchards Market, Drove Orchards Market, Drove Orchards Farm Shop, Creake Abbey Farm Shop, Creake Abbey Farm Shop, Creake Abbey Farm Shop, Creake Abbey Food Hall and Wiveton Food Hall and Wiveton Food Hall and Wiveton Food Hall and Wiveton Hall Farm Shop. Leigh also Hall Farm Shop. Leigh also Hall Farm Shop. Leigh also Hall Farm Shop. Leigh also attends the Creake Abbey attends the Creake Abbey attends the Creake Abbey attends the Creake Abbey farmers’ market on the rst farmers’ market on the fififirst farmers’ market onon the rst farmers’ market the first Saturday of every month, Saturday of every month, Saturday ofof every month, Saturday every month, and the Norwich Forum and the Norwich Forum and the Norwich Forum and the Norwich Forum farmers’ market on the farmers’ market on the farmers’ market onon the farmers’ market the second Saturday of every second Saturday of every second Saturday ofof every second Saturday every month. For more details, month. For more details, month. For more details, month. For more details, visit www.leighsbees.co.uk. visit www.leighsbees.co.uk. visit www.leighsbees.co.uk. visit www.leighsbees.co.uk.
The interest stayed with him, and keeping bees has been part of The interest stayed with him, and keeping bees has been part of he explains. ‘The advent of digital photographic technology was The interest stayed with him, and keeping bees has been part of Leigh’s life since that moment. But ititwas only six years ago, the Leigh’s life since that moment. But only six years ago, when the squeezing the market for professional photographers, sowhen Iwhen wanted Leigh’s life since that moment. But itwas was only six years ago, theto idea of turning his interest into aabusiness first crystallised. idea ofsomething turning his interest into first crystallised. find else I could do tobusiness supplement my photographic work.’ idea of turning his interest into abusiness first crystallised. ‘Like many people IIhad been re-evaluating what IIappealed, did for aaliving,’ ‘Like many people had been re-evaluating what did for The idea of producing abeen natural Norfolk honey not least ‘Like many people I had re-evaluating what I did for aliving,’ living,’ he explains. advent of digital technology was hebecause explains. ‘The advent ofof digital photographic technology was of‘The the huge variety of photographic plant life around his home (he now he explains. ‘The advent digital photographic technology was squeezing market for professional so IIwanted to find squeezing the market for professional photographers, soso wanted toto find lives nearthe Ringstead). From rape inphotographers, the spring, through blossom squeezing the market for professional photographers, IMay wanted find something else IIcould to supplement my photographic something else could do toto supplement my photographic work.’ and sycamore, thedo summer mix of wild flowers, lime,work.’ clover something else Itocould do supplement my photographic work.’ The idea of producing aanatural Norfolk appealed, not least The idea ofof producing Norfolk honey appealed, not least and marjoram, to the sea lavender to behoney found on the marshes at The idea producing anatural natural Norfolk honey appealed, not least because of the huge variety of plant life around his home now lives because ofof the huge variety ofof plant life around his home (he now lives Brancaster, the mix of nectars gives Leigh’s honey the(he true taste of because the huge variety plant life around his home (he now lives near Ringstead). From rape in the spring, through May blossom and near Ringstead). From rape inin the spring, through May blossom and the Norfolk countryside. near Ringstead). From rape the spring, through May blossom and sycamore, the summer mix of wild flowers, lime, clover and marjoram, sycamore, to the summer mix ofof wild flowers, lime, clover and marjoram, His 40to or so apiaries are dotted around the north Norfolk sycamore, to the summer mix wild flowers, lime, clover and marjoram, to the sea lavender to be found the marshes at Brancaster, the mix of tocountryside, the sea lavender toto be found onon the marshes atat Brancaster, the mix ofof on the edge of on the marshes, and further inland on to the sea lavender be found the marshes Brancaster, the mix nectars gives Leigh’s honey the true taste of the Norfolk countryside. nectars gives Leigh’s honey the true taste ofof the Norfolk countryside. nectars gives Leigh’s honey the true taste the Norfolk countryside.
Honey
NORFOLK PRODUCE NORFOLK NORFOLK PRODUCE NORFOLKPRODUCE PRODUCE
HONEY HONEY
RECIPE RECIPE RECIPE
Roger Roger Hickman’s Hickman’s Norfolk Norfolk honey honey madeleines madeleines SERVES SERVES FOUR FOUR SERVES FOUR
INGREDIENTS INGREDIENTS INGREDIENTS 135g 135gunsalted unsaltedbutter, butter,33 3 135g unsalted butter, eggs, eggs,75g 75gcaster castersugar, sugar,75g 75g eggs, 75g caster sugar, 75g Demerara Demerarasugar, sugar,15g 15gNorfolk Norfolk Demerara sugar, 15g Norfolk honey, honey,135g 135gplain plainflour, flour,3g 3g honey, 135g plain flour, 3g baking bakingpowder powder baking powder
His or are the Norfolk countryside, His 40 or so apiaries are dotted around the north Norfolk countryside, His40 40farms orso soapiaries apiaries aredotted dottedaround around thenorth north Norfolk countryside, organic and nature reserves. Farmers welcome his bees – they on the edge of the marshes, and further inland on organic farms and on the edge of the marshes, and further inland on organic farms and on the edge of the marshes, and further inland on organic farms and help with pollination, and increase yields on crops. nature Farmers welcome his with pollination, nature reserves. Farmers welcome his bees they help with pollination, nature reserves. Farmers welcome hisbees bees–––they they help with pollination, Withreserves. each hive producing around 40-60lbs ofhelp honey each year, and yields on and increase yields on crops. andincrease increase yields onacrops. crops. Leigh’s is very much human-scale enterprise, and he wouldn’t have each hive around 40-60lbs of each year, With each hive producing around 40-60lbs of honey each year, Leigh’s With eachway. hiveproducing producinghe around 40-60lbs ofhoney honey each year,Leigh’s Leigh’s it With any other Although would like to expand his business, 100 isis aaahuman-scale enterprise, and he have itit very much human-scale enterprise, and he wouldn’t have any other isvery veryismuch much human-scale enterprise, andhim hewouldn’t wouldn’t have itany anyother other hives his limit, because this will enable to continue making his way. he way. Although he would like to expand his business, 100 hives his limit, way.Although Although hewould would liketo toexpand expandhis hisbusiness, business,100 100hives hivesisis ishis hislimit, limit, honey the natural way. like because this to making his the because this will enable him to continue making his honey the natural because this will enable him tocontinue continue making hishoney honey thenatural natural As well aswill theenable knownhim origin of the honey, Leigh does not filter his way. way. way. ensuring that it contains the local pollens that the bees wanted honey, well the known origin does not filter his As well as the known origin of honey, Leigh does not filter his Asin well as theplace known originof ofthe the honey,Leigh Leigh doesa not filter histo in As it theas first (although itthe is honey, strained through fine sieve, honey, that itit the that the honey, ensuring that contains the local pollens that the bees wanted in honey,ensuring ensuring that itcontains contains thelocal localpollens pollens that the bees wanted in remove any stray pieces of wood from the hive, bits ofbees waxwanted and so in itit in the first place (although strained through fine sieve, to remove itin inthe thefirst firstplace place(although (althoughitit itisis isstrained strainedthrough throughaaafine finesieve, sieve,to toremove remove on). any stray pieces from the of and any stray pieces of wood from the hive, bits of wax and so on). any stray pieces ofwood wood fromheated thehive, hive, bits ofwax wax andso so on). The honey isof then gently tobits 40°C to enable iton). to be bottled, The isis gently to to itit The honey then gently heated to 40°C to enable to be bottled, Thehoney honey isthen thenany gently heated to40°C 40°C toenable enable itto tobe bebottled, bottled, without destroying of heated its natural tastes and enzymes. As Leigh without any of enzymes. As says: without destroying any of its natural tastes and enzymes. As Leigh says: without destroying any ofaits its natural tastesand and enzymes. AsLeigh Leigh says: says: ‘A destroying bee feasting on jarnatural of my tastes honey would taste little difference ‘A feasting on of honey ‘A bee feasting on jar of my honey would taste little difference from ‘Abee beewhat feasting onaaajar jar ofmy myto honey would tastelittle littledifference differencefrom from from it would expect findwould in the taste hive.’ what itit find what would expect to find in the hive.’ what itwould would expectto tocrystallise, findin inthe thehive.’ hive.’can be brought back to its more Honey will expect naturally but Honey will naturally crystallise, but can be brought back Honey will naturally crystallise, but can be brought back to its more Honey will naturally crystallise, but canin bewarm brought back toits itsmore more attractive liquid state by gently heating water – to although attractive state by heating water –––although attractive liquid state by gently heating in warm water although attractiveliquid liquid state bygently gently heating inwarm warmof water although surprisingly, Leigh says that around a in quarter people prefer surprisingly, Leigh surprisingly, Leigh says that around quarter of people prefer surprisingly,honey. Leighsays saysthat thataround aroundaaaquarter quarterof ofpeople peopleprefer prefer crystallised crystallised crystallised honey. crystallised honey. Liquid orhoney. crystallised, one thing that does remain constant is the Liquid or does remain isis Liquid or crystallised, one thing that does remain constant the taste, Liquid orcrystallised, crystallised, onething thingthat that does remain constant isthe thetaste, taste, taste, which will reflect one the nectar which the beesconstant have feasted which will reflect the nectar which the bees have feasted on. Leigh’s which will reflect the nectar which the bees have feasted on. Leigh’s which will reflect nectar which have feasted on. on. Leigh’s honeythe is noticeable for the thebees depth of flavour, theLeigh’s range honey isis for depth range tastes honey noticeable for the depth of flavour, the range of different tastes honey isnoticeable noticeable forthe the depthof offlavour, flavour, the rangeof ofdifferent different tastes of different tastes and aftertastes, and thethe complexity. When you and and the complexity. you have tasted and aftertastes, and the complexity. When you have tasted this, you won’t andaftertastes, aftertastes, and the complexity. When youwith havemass-produced tastedthis, this,you youwon’t won’t have tasted this, you won’t ever beWhen satisfied ever be satisfied with mass-produced supermarket honey again. ever be satisfied with mass-produced supermarket honey again. ever be satisfied with mass-produced supermarket honey again. supermarket honey again. As sells beeswax polish, aaanatural by-product Aswell well as the honey, Leigh sells beeswax polish, natural by-product wellas as the honey, Leigh sells beeswax polish, natural by-product As asthe thehoney, honey,Leigh Leigh sells beeswax polish, a natural byof process, aaanatural way to the lustre back of the honey-making process, and natural way to bring the lustre back ofthe thehoney-making honey-making process,and and natural way tobring bring theto lustre back product of the honey-making process, and a natural way bring the to And his venture isis to wooden furniture. And his latest venture beekeeping experience towooden wooden furniture. And hislatest latestAnd venture isbeekeeping beekeeping experience lustre backfurniture. to wooden furniture. his latest venture experience is beekeeping sessions, at who curious as honey sessions, aimed at those who are curious as to how honey made, and sessions,aimed aimed atthose those whoare arethose curious asto tohow how honey is made, and experience sessions, aimed at who are curious asisis tomade, how and honey who want to get up close and personal with the bees. who want to get up close and personal with the bees. who wantand to get upwant closeto and personal with bees. with the bees. is made, who get up close andthe personal As producers, Leigh isis clearly happy Aswith with so many artisan food producers, Leigh very clearly happy withso so many artisan food producers, Leigh isvery very clearly happy As somany manyartisan artisanfood food producers, Leigh is very clearly happy in admits. “I’ve no in his work. think probably am living the dream,” he admits. “I’ve no inhis thinkIIIIprobably probablyam amliving living the dream,” he admits. “I’ve no hiswork. in his work.‘I‘I ‘I‘Ithink think probably livingthe thedream,” dream,”he he admits. “I’ve no desire get rich – all the work I do, I enjoy.’ desire to get rich – all the work I do, I enjoy.’ desireto to get rich – all the work I do, I enjoy.’ to get rich – all the work I do, I enjoy.’ Subscribe Subscribe online at www.placesandfaces.co.uk Subscribe online online at at www.placesandfaces.co.uk www.placesandfaces.co.uk www.placesandfaces.co.uk
Heat Heatthe thebutter butterin inaa apan panuntil untilitit itmelts, melts,foams, foams, Heat the butter in pan until melts, foams, and andstarts startsto toturn turnlight lightbrown. brown.Remove Removefrom fromthe the and starts to turn light brown. Remove from the heat heatand andallow allowto tocool coolslightly slightly–– –itit itwill willcontinue continueto to heat and allow to cool slightly will continue to become becomeslightly slightlydarker darkerin incolour. colour.This Thisisis iscalled calledbeurre beurre become slightly darker in colour. This called beurre noisette. noisette. noisette. In Inaa aKenwood Kenwoodmixer, mixer,whisk whiskthe theeggs eggsand andcaster caster In Kenwood mixer, whisk the eggs and caster sugar sugartogether togetheruntil untilthey theyare arelight lightand andfluffy. fluffy. sugar together until they are light and fluffy. Heat Heatthe theDemerara Demerarasugar sugarand andhoney honeyin inaa apan panto to Heat the Demerara sugar and honey in pan to aa atemperature temperatureof of120°C, 120°C,then thenadd addto tothe theegg eggand and temperature of 120°C, then add to the egg and sugar sugarmixture, mixture,while whilewhisking whiskingslowly. slowly. sugar mixture, while whisking slowly. Mix Mixthe thebaking bakingpowder powderinto intothe theflour, flour,and andthen then Mix the baking powder into the flour, and then add addthis thisto tothe themixture, mixture,with withthe thewhisk whiskstill stillgoing going add this to the mixture, with the whisk still going slowly. slowly.Next, Next,add addthe thebeurre beurrenoisette, noisette,very veryslowly slowly slowly. Next, add the beurre noisette, very slowly at atfirst, first,as asifif ifyou youwere weremaking makingmayonnaise. mayonnaise.Once Onceitit it at first, as you were making mayonnaise. Once starts startsto tocome cometogether, together,you youcan canincrease increasethe thespeed speed starts to come together, you can increase the speed both bothof ofthe thewhisk, whisk,and andof ofhow howquickly quicklyyou youadd addthe the both of the whisk, and of how quickly you add the remaining remainingbutter. butter. remaining butter. IIIuse usesilicone siliconeMadeleine Madeleinetrays, trays,which whichrequire requirelittle little use silicone Madeleine trays, which require little or orno nogreasing. greasing.But Butifif ifyou youare areusing usingaa ametal metaltray, tray, or no greasing. But you are using metal tray, butter butterthe thetray, tray,and andshake shakeflour flourinto intothe theindentations. indentations. butter the tray, and shake flour into the indentations. Now Nowpour pourthe themadeleine madeleinemixture mixtureinto intothe thetray, tray, Now pour the madeleine mixture into the tray, being beingcareful carefulnot notto tooverfill overfillthe theindentations. indentations.The The being careful not to overfill the indentations. The madeleines madeleineswill willrise riseduring duringcooking, cooking,so soonly onlyfill fillthe the madeleines will rise during cooking, so only fill the trays traysuntil untilthey theyare arelevel. level. trays until they are level. Bake Bakein inthe theoven ovenat at180°C 180°Cfor forabout aboutsix sixminutes, minutes, Bake in the oven at 180°C for about six minutes, until untilthe themadeleines madeleinesare aregolden goldenbrown brownand andslightly slightly until the madeleines are golden brown and slightly puffed puffedup. up.Remove Removefrom fromthe theoven ovenand andcool coolon on puffed up. Remove from the oven and cool onaa a cooling coolingrack. rack. cooling rack.
ROGER ROGERHICKMAN HICKMANisis ischef-proprietor chef-proprietorat atRoger Roger ROGER HICKMAN chef-proprietor at Roger
Hickman‘s Hickman‘sRestaurant Restaurantin inUpper UpperSt StGiles, Giles,Norwich. Norwich. Hickman‘s Restaurant in Upper St Giles, Norwich. More Moredetails detailsat atwww.rogerhickmansrestaurant.com. www.rogerhickmansrestaurant.com. More details at www.rogerhickmansrestaurant.com.
69 59 69 69
1
NAUTICAL
BUT NICE
n
It’s all aboard with our homes writers Jennifer Read and Hayley Philpot as they for inspiration
head to the coast
2
SEASALT
1 Towels: hand £14, bath £26, bath sheet £38, 100 per cent cotton Soft cotton hand towels in beautiful stripes and prints. 2 Cornish Stripe Lapis bedding: single cover £80, double £95, king £105, super king £115, pillow case £20 each, 100 per cent cotton Transform your bedroom with the stunning Cornish Stripe Lapis collection. Featuring a wide striped pattern with a blue and white palette and yellow detailing on the edges, it will make any room ship shape! Colour pop cushion £50, throw £140, 100 per cent cotton These bright cotton throws are perfect for draping over your bed. Inspired by tidal ripple patterns that show in the sand on Cornish beaches, they are a great way to inject a pop of colour into any bedroom.
60
OT MUCH BEATS that classic blue and white combination – it is fresh, crisp and so very inviting. Norfolk boasts such a stupendous coastline that creating a nautical look in the home is very popular. But, be warned, don’t overdo it. A little touch here and there is infinitely more impressive than endless mini lighthouses and duvets printed with anchors. Bathrooms and bedrooms are easy areas to tackle, and if you seek out a few shells, pebbles and pieces of driftwood from your favourite beach, you can really start to build your very own, personalised, look. Here are a few ideas for making your home feel like the sand is in your toes and the warm beach air is on your face!
INTERIOR
coastal living
Biederlack
luxury thermosoft throws from £30
HAYLEY & JENNIFER are homeware buyers
Jarrold’s 1-11 London Street, Norwich, NR2 1AL www.jarrold.co.uk
The Granary 5 Bedford Street, Norwich, NR2 1AL www.thegranary.co.uk
LEXINGTON (pictured left and below) We spend half our life in bed so why not do it in style? With Lexington’s beautifully made bedding you can combine naturally soft fabrics with colour and style. Why not try this summer’s printed sateen double bedding set £219 or king set £249?Welcome to our home feather filled beach house cushion £69
3 Cast away rope cushions £30 each Add some coastal flair to your home with this eye-catching rope stitch cushion. 4 Lagoon cushions £35 each This fun and quirky cushion features three embroidered fish in a stunning metallic blue sheen with contrast piping and reverse. 5 Crab cushion £35 each Add a great conversation piece to your home with this fun Moroccan patterned crab design. Also available in Natural.
3
4
5
61
ENJOYING THE GREAT OUTDOORS Famous for its utilitarian past, Citroen’s nod to back-to-basics motoring might still be Berlingo-shaped, but it’s anything but rough and ready WORDS: IAIN DOOLEY
FACTS AT A GLANCE Citroen Berlingo BlueHDi 120 XTR, £18,540 Engine: 1.6-litre diesel unit producing 120bhp Transmission: Six-speed manual transmission driving the front wheels Performance: Top speed 109mph, 0 to 62mph in 11.4 seconds Economy: 64.2mpg combined Emissions: 115g/km of CO2 Prices correct at time of going to press
62
WHAT’S NEW? Citroen’s Berlingo Multispace has been part of the furniture for some time, but it serves a useful purpose if you need a spacious, no-frills cabin and don’t want to break the bank. The gentle evolution of the “van with windows” concept has led us to a car that also fits right into the current trend for active lifestyle motoring. The concept is a simple one; a spacious, lofty cabin is matched by comfort-spec suspension and a choice of modest engines. And in the case of this refreshed XTR model, throw in a tweaked exterior, more kit plus child-friendly cabin materials and the option of an abundance of oddment storage options and you’ve got car fit for anything an active lifestyle weekend could throw at it. LOOKS AND IMAGE In XTR guise, the Berlingo presents a more rugged face to the world. The concept is a little like Audi’s Allroad sub brand, what with the bash-proof plastic exterior trim
and hint of rough terrain abilities. Only, being Citroen, the experience comes at a significantly more affordable asking price. The result is a car boasting a trick traction control system in lieu of proper all-wheel drive to help when in moderately slippery conditions – something that’s likely to appeal to the SUV-hating crowd.
SPACE AND PRACTICALITY There’s no shortage of space in a Berlingo – it shares its underpinnings with a van after all. The car’s sliding rear doors are a welcome solution to loading and unloading in tight spaces, while its massive tailgate easily doubles as a shelter when it’s raining. The cabin’s five-seat layout offers ample space for an active family, and there’s no shortage of oddment storage either. Additional roof-mounted storage apes airline-style overhead lockers and the durable nature of the cabin materials won’t force you to become overprotective in the face of a little mud or rain.
MOTORING
DEALER DETAILS
Duff Morgan – Norwich Whiffler Road,Norwich NR3 2AZ Tel: 01603 775477 Duff Morgan – King’s Lynn 49 Bergen Way, North Lynn Industrial Estate, King’s Lynn PE30 2JG Tel: 01553 770144 www.duffmorgan. citroen.co.uk
BEHIND THE WHEEL Don’t buy a Berlingo to be bowled over by its handling prowess – Citroen’s take on low cost, lifestyle motoring is not a car for keen drivers. Its strengths lie elsewhere, namely carrying people and their clobber in comfort for not a lot of money. And in that respect the Berlingo does a fine job while attempting to make the ownership experience an enjoyable one. The rugged XTR variant adds a welcome extra layer of “lifestyle” to the mix if you’re an active type and like to venture off the tarmac once in a while. The car’s raised ride height, chunky looks and trick “Grip Control” traction control system add genuine value and make the car a serious alternative to a budget compact SUV. Factor in a gutsy diesel engine and you’re all set for that camping holiday with the family. VALUE FOR MONEY In broad terms, the Berlingo Multispace easily qualifies for “budget” status,
although this more upmarket XTR version will cost you a little more money. The trade-off is a SUV-like rugged exterior and the prospect of improved all-weather traction from its clever stability control system – remember, this is still a frontwheel drive car. Opting for a diesel variant if you plan on racking up the miles will be a smart move, especially if you also plan on towing. Kit levels might be modest, but with the money saved over a regular SUV you’ve got some leeway when it comes to selecting some choice options.
WHO WOULD BUY ONE? Active types not keen on flashing the cash would do well to put the Berlingo Multispace on their shopping list. A practical, spacious and durable family car, in XTR guise it’s also happy to trundle across wet grass to your car boot pitch or campsite without getting stuck. Thanks to a simple cabin design and the use of tough materials, there’s no need to be overprotective if your children are less
than respectful of their surroundings, either.
LOOKS AND IMAGE In regular trim the XC90 treads the ideal line between discreet and purposeful, with its eye-catching grille and “Thor’s hammer” headlight graphics. The R-Design swings the balance a little further however, with the 20-inch alloys adding aggression. The test car wore optional 22-inch rollers and was finished in stark red paint, making it a clear competitor for the Range Rover Sport, but careful selections on the options front means you can create your ideal mix. Either way the XC90 is a handsome beast, with its star quality being that it is distinct from its key rivals that tend to be either too blunt or just too commonplace.
63
5 YEAR
HOME IS WHERE THE HEART IS
THE RED HART
GUARANTEE
So why go elsewhere when quality blinds and curtains are right on your doorstep?
FINE ALE PUB & RESTAURANT
01263 588 270
NORWICH SUNBLINDS
˚
OPEN ALL DAY - DOG FRIENDLY GOOD FOOD, LOCAL CASK ALES & FINE WINES
01603 334048
˚
Norfolk Upholstery
TRADITIONAL ROAST SERVED EVERY SUNDAY LUNCH
Caravan upholstery specialists • • • • • •
THE STREET, BODHAM, NR25 6AD
www.redhartbodham - email: info@redhartbodham.co.uk
40 years experience All types of upholstery undertaken Re-upholstry of modern and antique furniture Extensive range of fabrics, Minor repairs Cushions made or refilled
Tel: 01603 611442 / 07518 472442 3 Europa Way, Norwich NR1 2EN www.norfolkupholstery.co.uk
The
Jetty Café
We serve Traditional English Breakfasts, Baked Potatoes,Sandwiches and Baps, Cakes, Scones. When in season we serve Cromer Crab. We also have special dishes such as Liver and Bacon, Sausage and Mash, Crab Chowder. We source as many of our ingredients as we can locally & have a good reputation for vegetarian & vegan dishes. We also have an alcohol licence serving wines, beers & ciders. We welcome well behaved Children and Dogs. The Jetty is a busy cafe which is open 7 days a week 51 weeks a year from 09.30 hrs until 16.00 hrs
11 High Street, Cromer • Tel: 01263 513814
FAMILY ADVENTURE DAYS 2O16
BRILLIANT FAMILY FUN! OPEN MONDAY TO FRIDAY DURING EASTER, MAY HALF TERM & SUMMER HOLIDAYS
AM Session 1Oam-1pm PM Session 1:3Opm-4:3Opm
see website for activity schedule & updates
www.hilltopoutdoorcentre.co.uk TO BOOK
CALL
Located just off the A148 - Near Sheringham
FAD2016 345x268 Ad.indd 1
LORD AND LADY WALPOLE INVITE YOU TO ENJOY WALKS, TRAILS, GARDENS AND THE MANY SPECIAL EVENTS AT
MANNINGTON HALL
why not visit the GREEDY GOOSE TEA ROOMS serving home made goodies and local produce
• WALKS AND CAR PARK OPEN DAILY UNTIL DUSK • GARDENS OPEN MAY 29TH - SEPTEMBER • WED,THURS,FRIDAY: 11-5 • SUNDAYS: 12-5
Please check our leaflet and website for events and special occasions throughout the season
MANNINGTON HALL, NORWICH, NORFOLK, NR11 7BB • email: admin@walpoleestate.co.uk
• Tel: 01263 584175
www.manningtongardens.co.uk
O1263 824514
ONLY £20 PER HALF DAY, PER PERSON
BOOKING
ESSENTIAL MINIMUM AGE 8 YEARS
26/02/2016 12:16
Where do you like to eat out in Norfolk and why? And what do you order? Best of all I love everyone gathering together in the kitchen and making a feast of whatever we've found on the marsh or in the garden; or at the brilliant butchers in Melton Constable (can't remember the name!). I don't eat out much, but Wiveton Hall Cafe is my favourite; the menu is seasonal so there are new discoveries every time. They do a great soy latte! What do you miss most when you leave the region? The way the sky is always changing; no one day ever feels the same as any other.
5 minutes with
Sienna
Guillory
Actress Sienna Guillory, who stars in the new Norfolk-based film The Goob, on why she enjoys having a mardle with the characters who work at her mum’s clothing company Describe your job to us I pretend to be other people. Are you Norfolk born and bred? Or where were you born and what brought you to Norfolk? My grandparents met here during the war, they bought a house in Blakeney, and we all came every summer to sail and go native on the marshes. We relocated here when I was 11, so it always felt like home. What’s your ideal day out in the area? When the tides are right, my ideal day would be to sail out to the Point early in the morning, cook breakfast, spend all day exploring and then drift back to the harbour on the incoming evening tide. Which iconic Norfolk characters do you most admire and why? I love the locals that make mum's Carrier Company goods: Stanley, who forges the fire pipes always has the most extraordinary and brilliant theories on the universe; Mel has the kindest heart and always makes time for a mardle (she also has a thing for motorbikes and heavy metal). What’s your favourite pub in Norfolk and what do you like to drink there? I love the Three Horseshoes in Warham, as half a Guinness and port is good medicine after a howling walk on the marsh.
66
What are you reading at the moment? My script! I'm on set! Would you prefer a day on the Broads or a day at Yarmouth’s Pleasure Beach? Why? Definitely the Broads, preferably in a lovely old clinker built Gunter rig so I can pretend I'm in Swallows and Amazons and explore all the little islands. Opera, musical, drama or movie - which would you prefer to watch? And what was the last production/ show you saw? Movie: Hyena. Sum up Norfolk in three words My feral home. Sum up yourself in three words Daughter, wife, mum.
About The Goob
THE GOOB, which premiered at Cinema City in Norwich is a fiery British drama set against a stunning Norfolk back drop. By Guy Myhill, it boasts a cast of predominantly people born or raised in the county, from the established leads Sienna Guillory and Sean Harris to supporting actress Hannah Spearritt and non-professionals, including newcomer Liam Walpole and two builder friends of the director who play Rod and Fergie. SIENNA says of the film: ‘I grew up in Norfolk and I really loved the script, I thought it was beautiful and free and it felt very modern and nuanced rather than classic ‘telly’ storytelling with too much dialogue. I liked that the characters were thinly drawn, in a way, and you just get it. I understood. I liked the idea of playing someone who’s a bad mum. She’s living in a grey world morally and Goob sees things in black and white.’ She also recognised the rowdy Norfolk stock car racing scene. ‘Growing up, I had mates who did the stock car racing thing and my brother was really into it, always had several wrecks in the yard that he was tinkering with, and a slew of weird teenaged characters that used to hang around with him, and I just used to watch them all. I just identified with it because I know the world.’
2456 merrivlae woodlands ad.qxp_Layout 1 17/03/2016 16:08 Page 1
2016 Summer Illuminations
2016 Opening Times Open Daily From 10am 19 March to 26 July
27 July to 1 September
Close at 5.15pm - Last Admission 4.15pm
27 July to 1 September
October Half Term
Close at 10pm - Last Admission 9pm
2 September to 30 October
Wednesday 26 October
Close at 5.15pm Last Admission 4.15pm
Last admission 6pm close 7pm
Well behaved dogs welcome
www.merrivalemodelvillage.co.uk Tel: 01493 842097 Sat Nav NR30 3JG Marine Parade, Great Yarmouth, Norfolk, NR30 3JG
*Old Penny Arcade, Merrivale Tea Room and Gift shop are all accessible without Merrivale admission.
S LODGE Y R U X U L AVANS R A C D AN NLY FROM O
ÂŁ53,995
WE LOVE OUR LIFESTYLE
Buxton Piece is a newly created area situated on the outer edge of Woodland Holiday Park ideally located on the tranquil North Norfolk coastline. It features beautiful scenery and views of woodlands with beaches and clifftops on your doorstep, the perfect place to get away from the stresses of everyday life and unwind with your friends and family. Buxton Piece is part of the family owned and operated Woodland Holiday Park so you can be at ease knowing we focus on your individual requirements and interests to ensure you find the perfect property to suit your lifestyle. The luxury lodges and caravans available on Buxton Piece are of residential specification, meaning you are guaranteed to be comfortable throughout the entire year.
Woodland Holiday Park | Trimingham | Norfolk | NR11 8QJ | www.woodlandholidaypark.co.uk | 01263 79208