NEWS & EVENTS
MILLBANK ESTATE AGENTS
MOTORING REVIEW
NEW BUCKENHAM ART EXHIBITION
FOR DISS & ATTLEBOROUGH
www.DispatchMagazine.co.uk
March 2013
WELCOME
Tel: 01953 456789 www.DispatchMagazine.co.uk @Dispatch_Mag
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DispatchMag
Issue 138 March 2013 Deadline for all submissions for the next issue is: March
8th 2013
Š Dispatch Magazine Disclaimer: No part of this magazine may be reproduced or used in any form or by any means, either wholly or in part, without the prior written permission of the Publisher. The views expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of the Publisher. Every effort is taken to ensure that the contents of this magazine are accurate, but the Publisher can not assume any responsibility for errors or omissions. Whilst reasonable care is taken when accepting advertisements the Publisher will not accept any resulting unsatisfactory transactions. They will, however, immediately investigate any written complaints. The Publishers reserve the right to amend such submissions and cannot accept responsibility for any loss.
March 2013
Diss
www.dissonline.co.uk
Classic Clapton
Diss Museum
At The Corn Hall, Diss - Friday March 8th At 7.30pm.
This year is the 800th anniversary of the albeit legendary murder of Matilda Fitz Walter by order of King John.
The World’s No1 Eric Clapton Tribute Band, featuring front man Mike Hall who not only looks like Eric, he sings and plays guitar like him too!
The whole of EC’s illustrious career is covered including Cream, John Mayall’s Bluesbreakers, The Yardbirds, Blind Faith, Derek & The Dominos and the solo years.
CLASSIC CLAPTON comprises 4 excellent musicians who stunningly recreate Slowhand’s electrifying stage performances.
In their 27 years on the road CLASSIC CLAPTON have become something of a rock institution, touring throughout the UK, and Europe The show is a 2-hour journey through the music of Eric Clapton including all of his hits - Wonderful Tonight, I Shot The Sheriff, Lay Down Sally, Crossroads, Tears in Heaven, Layla and even an Unplugged segment. Nearly 2 Hours Of Classic Clapton Tickets: £14.00 – (Concessions £12.00) Box Office Tel: 01379 - 652241 Visit: www.classic-clapton.com
March 2013
She is said to have rejected his advances and was killed by a poisoned boiled or poached egg, as seen on the town sign. This is not a very likely story. Historian Kate Norgate (1902) said: “On a tale so monstrous and so nonsensical as this, comment is needless.” Matilda’s story was first told in the 16th century Latin Chronicle of Dunmow of Nicholas Bromfield. It was translated by John Stow in his Annales of 1592 and used in poems by Michael Drayton, a contemporary of Shakespeare. Matilda’s father, Sir Robert Fitz Walter, was one of the Magna Carta barons and referred several times to the King chasing his daughter. But the poisoning was probably made up by the monks. In the Middle Ages there was no media, just word of mouth or what the monks wrote down. If you upset them you paid the price. King John fell out with the Pope over who should be Archbishop of Canterbury and was excommunicated. This had a bad effect on religion and caused the monks to savage
John in their writings. “Foul as it is, hell itself is defiled by the fouler presence of John,” wrote Matthew Parrish. In one version of the story the knight who did the deed was so overcome with remorse that he either became a monk or killed himself. In another version the poison is in a glove where Matilda pricked her finger. She is also said to have died while imprisoned in the Tower. Most fanciful of all but irresistible is the version that has her escaping to the greenwood and becoming Maid Marian. This came largely from the pens, four centuries later, of playwrights Anthony Munday and Harry Chettle. They pushed the Robin Hood stories, set largely in the reign of Edward II, back a century to King John. His effigy can still be seen in Worcester Cathedral and Matilda’s in Little Dunmow church in Essex. See the display in Diss Museum when we re-open on 20th March. Basil Abbott
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Diss
Report Of Diss U3A February Meeting
Saturday Club Badge Competition
At the February meeting David Cawdell, a former musician with the Band of the Irish Guards, told of his 60 year relationship with brass bands.
The Saturday Club at Diss Corn Hall is on the hunt for a new logo that can be turned into a button badge for all our members.
His talk “Grandad Played The Cornet” told the story of him following in his Father’s and Grandfather’s footsteps. Aged 16 he began his musical career in the Salvation Army band in Luton, where he was spotted and given the opportunity to appear in an early BBC televised talent show which in turn led to an invitation to join the band of the Irish Guards where for several years he took part in royal ceremonial duties both here and overseas.
So if you are 11 or under simply pick up your pens and pencils and start getting creative. Have a think about what The Saturday Club means to you and then get busy.
His illustrated talk charted the history of brass bands from medieval musicians and on to those providing the music for military and religious institutions and to more peaceful times when bands provided music for recreational purposes. In the 1900’s the brass band was an important feature in many towns and villages playing an integral part in the social and religious lives of every community.
Whenever people gathered to celebrate or commemorate an occasion, the local brass band was there to accompany them. Sadly nowadays with changes to village life the fall in church attendance and the loss of many of our manufacturing industries brass bands are no longer found in the great numbers of their prewar heydays. This being the case those that do play regularly still enjoy a popular following. The next meeting of Diss U3A will be on March 7th at Diss United Reformed Church. This meeting will be preceded by the AGM and will commence at 9.30am sharp. For further information visit the Diss U3A website or telephone 01379 642674.
The winning entry will get to see their design turned into a badge and will win a Family ticket to a Saturday Club of their choice!
Here’s how to enter: • Sketch your design onto a piece of A4 paper using pens or pencils but no collage please! • Remember the design will be turned into a badge so use a round template (we found drawing round an upturned cup works perfectly!) • Add your name, age, address and phone number so we can contact you • Drop off your entry to the Box Office in the Old Stables beside the Corn Hall before the closing date of the 16th of March.
March 2013
Diss
www.dissonline.co.uk
New Staging Of Working Class Classic Play To Be Performed At Diss Corn Hall Townsend Productions is delighted to announce that fresh from a sold out national tour and much critical acclaim, the company’s two hander version of Robert Tressell’s celebrated tale The Ragged Trousered Philanthropists will be visiting the Diss Corn Hall on the 1st March 2013. Using instrumentation, songs of the period, movement, physicalisation, comedy and characterisation to create the spirit and clarity of the political message, the play shares with its audience a year in the life of a group of painters and decorators, as they renovate a three-storey town house for Mayor Sweater. It traces their struggle for survival in a complacent and stagnating Edwardian England. These workers are the “philanthropists” who throw themselves into back-breaking work for poverty wages in order to generate profit for their masters Performed as a two-hander, the production remains as vivid and as relevant as when it was written almost a century ago, runs. Robert Tressell’s The Ragged Trousered Philanthropists, has become a classic of working-class literature since its first publication in 1914. The themes and style of the piece are eternally relevant and provoking as it puts life and politics into sharp focus in
March 2013
an entertaining and accessible way. What, with a Tory-led coalition government in power, and that the year 2011 is the centenary anniversary of Robert Tressell’s death, the company felt it was the right time for this show to be seen on tour nationally. Stephen Lowe’s version of the story was first seen in 1978, when Joint Stock Theatre Company toured the country playing to packed houses. The play was revived at the Half Moon Theatre, London in 1983 and again for a touring production by the Birmingham Rep in 1991. The Ragged Trousered Philanthropists’ excellent cast features Richard Stone, (Coronation Street and Emmerdale) and Neil Gore (Song of Singapore, Chichester Festival Theatre and the West end). The production is directed by Louise Townsend, with the creative team including designs by Finetime Fontayne and lighting by Brian O’Carroll. The play has had the Backing of the unions The
RMT, Wales TUC, Unite, GMB, NASUWT, TUC, PCS UCATT & ACCORD. Tickets for The Ragged Trousered Philanthropists are priced at £10 (£9 Concs)
and can be purchased at the Box Office on 01379 642241 or online at www.disscornhall.co.uk. For more info visit www.townsendproductions.co.uk.
Fashion Show Featuring clothing by Tatters of Diss will take place at the Park Hotel Diss on Thursday 25th April all proceeds going to East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices.
The clothes will be complemented by accessories from Roz Barnet ‘As you like it’ and Tatters.
to our shop in Diss will be on display and along with the items modelled will be available to purchase at the end of the evening when an opportunity will exist to seek advice from Rachel & Dionne regarding make-up issues. There will be a pay bar and raffle.
Make up for the models by Rachel and Dionne from Defining Radiance. A rail of new clothes which have been donated
Tickets now available from Pauline on 01379 650938 or Tatters shop in Diss.
Doors will open at 7.00pm for 7.30pm start. Ticket price is £12.50 to include a glass of sparkling wine and nibbles.
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Diss and District Indoor Bowls Club
Newman & Co Real Time Information (RTI) - The biggest change to PAYE in 70 years! Many employers will have
Has been providing year-round bowls for it’s members for nearly 50 years. recently received a letter from We are one of the oldest indoor bowls clubs in Norfolk, and we consider our outdoor green to be among the best in Norfolk and Suffolk. The club currently has a membership of approximately 330, drawn from Diss and outlying villages from a redius of about 20 miles. We have a full programme of internal and external league matches as well as friendly games against other Waveney Valley clubs and fund-raising tournaments which again attract members of other clubs. We also host touring clubs and occasional prestige matches involving teams made up of the representatives of the presidents of the Norfolk and Suffolk Bowling Associations who appreciate the facilities we can offer in addition to bowls; ample car parking, a bar and spectating areas, comfortable dining room where many visitors are entertained and the club also organises social events for members and non members.
Both our greens can accommodate 32 players and it would not be unusual to see them fully occupied by bowlers watched by supporters and spectators. The indoor green, in particular, is open from 9.30am until 10.30pm during the nine month indoor season between September and April with internal club league matches, games against other clubs and practice. A significant number of our bowlers have come from our coaching sessions which are run by qualified coaches. The next series of coaching will last for six weeks on Saturday mornings commencing on 13th April 2013. Often these get over subscribed and therefore anyone interested should register in advance by calling the club on 01379 642908 (evenings). The club is situated just off Fair Green (behind the Cock Inn Public House).
Diss
HMRC informing them of their mandatory enrolment in RTI, the new monthly reporting regime for those operating a payroll scheme. For some, this may represent a significant additional administrative burden, especially for those still preparing manual payroll records. If you are already using recognised payroll reporting software, you should receive an update in time for the change to RTI in April this year. However, whatever your situation, it is advisable to review you current payroll solution and consider whether external assistance is required either in an advisory capacity or to prepare your payroll for you and ensure RTI compliance.
Annual Investment Allowances (AIA’s) Annual Investment Allowances have increased from £25,000 to £250,000 for the two years starting 1st January 2013. AIA’s allow a 100% deduction from taxable profits for capital expenditure up to the AIA limit. This represents an opportunity for those businesses with cash reserves or with access to finance to invest in their businesses and receive substantial tax relief. Careful timing of capital expenditure is required to maximise the tax relief from the increased allowances in both the current and subsequent tax years. Speaking with your tax adviser is therefore a must to avoid any wasted allowances. Wayne Goddard FCCA (Director of Newman & Co. Chartered Accountants)
March 2013
Diss
www.dissonline.co.uk
Upland Way Vets Ltd Now is the perfect time to review your pet’s health for the year to come. At Uplands Way Vets we have specially trained Pet Health Counsellors at all 3 of our branches. These counsellors run nursing clinics and offer services such as weight control, behaviour advice, post operative checks, emptying anal glands and nail clipping, to name a few. Our counsellors are friendly and approachable and here to help you with the day to day health and welfare of your pet. You can book an appointment with Kelly or Laura by calling any of the 3 surgeries. They also run Puppy Parties at our Attleborough and Stanton branches. These are socialisation classes for young pups, and include useful
information for owners, basic training, freebies and lots of fun!
Diss Decorative & Fine Arts Society Mrs. Beeton beats the snow.
They are the perfect way for your puppy to build confidence with other dogs and scary environments like going to the vets!
In spite of the blizzard conditions across South Norfolk in mid-January, the Diss Decorative & Fine Arts [DissDFAS] lecture was a wonderful experience to drive away the winter blues.
Also for 2013 Uplands Way Vets Ltd are launching our own Pet Health Scheme, whereby members pay a monthly fee that includes the cost of vaccinations, flea and worming treatments as well as discounts on selected drugs and services.
In full mid-Victorian costume, Dr. Annie Gray WAS Mrs. Beeton. She delivered her very enjoyable presentation of Isabella Beeton’s short life and the history of the Book of Household Management [BOHM] in a rapid and amusing style that had the members rocking with laughter.
For more information on this new scheme or any other special offers pop into any one of our surgeries or visit us on Facebook.
The lecture covered dining, dishes, the look, the feel and taste of food together with the functioning of Victorian Kitchens. Dr. Gray also explained Mrs Beeton’s remarkably short life; she died at 28, and her more enduring legacy to culinary arts - in print continuously since 1861.
For more information about our practice call our Diss surgery on 01379 642865 or our Attleborough surgery on 01953 454945 or visit our website: www.uplandswayvets.co.uk
She also dealt with some of the recipes from the BOHM - all of which Annie Gray had prepared, cooked and served herself.
Alison Rainer, secretary of DissDFAS said afterwards, “This was a magnificent performance by a wonderful entertainer and erudite expert. It was so different and the laughter rang around the Roydon hall. I am sorry that the winter weather restricted our attendance but we will not forget Annie Gray in her bustle or Mrs. Beeton in Diss.” The March Lecture will be on Tuesday, 19th March when Harry Fletcher will present “The Art of Advertising” Roydon Village Hall from 1.30pm. Tea & Coffee is served before the presentation. Car parking is available but may be restricted during the winter months. For more details on lectures and membership, visit www.dissdfas.org.uk.
Tel: 01953 456789 www.DispatchMagazine.co.uk
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Join the team
We are looking for a full time dynamic office admin person to assist the sales team also a freelance Sales person for a fixed 6 week contract. For more information call Jonathan on 01953 456789 NORWICH
March 2013
DISS & ATTLEBOROUGH
WYMONDHAM DEREHAM & WATTON
BURY ST EDMUNDS
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Diss
New Faces At Jackamans, Ancient House, Harleston Jackamans is pleased to announce the appointment of David Stevens who will handle employment and litigation matters. Also, Claire Kean is returning to Jackamans’ family department following maternity leave.
Motorcycling is another hobby and he has worked across East Anglia as an amateur disc jockey.
Both will be based at the firm’s Harleston office but will be available for meetings at the firm’s other offices should clients prefer.
David loves travel and has spent time abroad in Europe, South Africa and the Middle East.
David qualified in 2008 when he was with a practice in Great Yarmouth, specialising in all aspects of employment law and litigation. The former naturally evolving from his academic studies in employment law at post graduate level. More recently he has been working as a specialist advocate across the whole of the South Eastern circuit. In David’s spare time he enjoys squash and has gained black belts in Shotokan and Shukokai Karate.
He is currently looking for a publisher for his first novel - we don’t know where he gets the time! Claire Kean qualified as a Fellow of the Institute of Legal Executives, specialising in Family Law in October 2007 after successfully completing employment in legal practice.
Above: David Stevens
Claire is able to advise clients on all aspects of Family Law to include divorce, finances and Children’s Act matters.
Anita Sharpe (Solicitor) and Karen Nicholson (Solicitor specialising in domestic abuse cases) in the Family department.
Claire joins Tim Owers (Family partner), Ruth Jenkins (Consultant),
She is looking forward to returning to work after the birth of her second son.
Above: Claire Kean
For further information on litigation, employment or family matters please call 01379 643555.
March 2013
10 Diss
www.dissonline.co.uk
Stacey And Partners Businesses in East Anglia face dangers and challenges in the year ahead, due to the biggest changes in the PAYE system since it was introduced in 1944. Whether you employ one person, or employ a large work force, the changes in the PAYE system that will take place in April 2013 will affect you. Are you ready? Under the new system, called Real Time Information (RTI), employers must send HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) monthly details of how much each employee has been paid and how much tax has been deducted under the PAYE system. These details will have to be sent to HMRC in electronic format, and the first challenge that many small businesses will have is to operate a computerised payroll system, in order that the submissions are made correctly. The implications of the new system are that employee information must be accurate and submissions must be completed on time so that HMRC will know how much PAYE and national insurance contributions are due at each pay date. These changes will also enable HMRC to identify companies which are falling in arrears with the payment of PAYE and National Insurance leading to financial difficulties. Many small businesses may
March 2013
This Month At comercrawley
delay making payments to HMRC in times of financial difficulty, to assist with cash flow. Now, they will have to “come clean” and negotiate if they are falling in arrears, as RTI will give HMRC the transparency it needs to more quickly tackle companies that are building up arrears.
We are celebrating our 14th Birthday.
There are many issues employers must address before the system goes live. One is payroll alignment, which will probably be the biggest hurdle for most employers. Payroll alignment attempts to match up information HMRC holds with employers’ payroll records.
There have been a few changes over the years, most notable being when Emma Crawley became a Director alongside Ian, and we decided to incorporate a name change, from Ian Comer Solicitors to comercrawley Solicitors.
All those who employ others will be required to make their first Full Payment Submission under the new guidelines on or after April 6th.
Another of our senior solicitors Judith Cole has been with us now for just over 10 years after joining us in 2002.
Mark Wallace is a Charted Accountant and a member of the Federation of tax Advisors partner in the accountancy firm Stacey and Partners, with offices in Bury St Edmunds, Newmarket and Thetford, and can be contacted on 01284 773400 or by email: mwallace@staceys.co.uk.
Whilst we hope to get a quick settlement for you, personal injury claims can take a We are open Monday to Friday 9am till 5pm. long while to come to fruition.
We owe our continuing success largely to the people of Diss and surrounding areas for using our services and also recommending us to your friends and families, so thank you.
We know that going through this process can be a very traumatic time for clients and so we always ensure that we try to make the experience as easy as
possible for them and let them know that we are here for them throughout the whole process to answer any questions or queries. Ian, Emma and Judith would be more than happy to have a chat with you if you think you may have a claim. As you can see they have many years of experience between them, so even if you think you don’t have a claim, they might! We do not charge for this. So please call on: 01379 644311 or email: enquiries@comercrawley.co.uk.
Please also take a minute to follow us on Twitter @comercrawley and “Like” our Facebook page.
Diss 11
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All Hallows Healthcare Trust ...provides a unique complex of local Healthcare Services. All Hallows Home Care specialises in Needs Based Care for people living at home. The team aim to ensure that each client receives the highest standard of care, and to assist them to live as independently as possible, whilst recognising personal freedom of choice and recognise and promote dignity, self-respect, independence and privacy.
with a weekly service. It is vital that the residents keep active mentally and physically too make to most of everyday.
All Hallows Nursing Home in Bungay cares for residents who are physically dependant; many will need full assistance with most activities of daily living requiring nursing care from qualified staff with the experience knowledge and skills to meet their needs.
All Hallows Day Care Services are available every day except Saturdays. It is a great way to meet people, socialise, take part in a wide range of activities and if you wish you can even get your haircut and have a bath! Transport can be provided but is subject to availability.
Residents can relax and participate in the life of the home. There are 3 large bright day rooms with a TV and stereo equipment, a large conservatory leading to an enclosed garden, a dining room and a multi-denominational chapel
They are encouraged to maintain their own leisure interests and hobbies but are given the opportunity of joining in with a range of activities organised within the home.
Referrals are accepted from Social Services and from the private sector. The Nursing Home takes referrals from the National Health Service too. Recruiting for staff see website for details.
Auction Alley ...is brand new, and we turn your unwanted items into cash for you! Auction Alley has just been launched by local husband and wife team, Chris and Denise Hammond-Webb. Call us if you’re looking for some money! Now we have your attention, we ought to point out that we don’t provide free money, or loans. Sorry about that! Instead, Auction Alley make it easy for you, and for your business, to turn unwanted or unused items, old stock, tools or equipment, into cash. This is how it works. • We collect your items free across most of Norfolk and Suffolk (or you can deliver)
sell them mostly through Ebay, but sometimes through Amazon or Asos if your items are more suited to those websites. When your items have been sold, we package and post them to the new owner. You get paid the net profit. You may not have the time to do it yourself, or just don’t feel confident enough. You may not have a broadband connection. There are many reasons why householders or businesses ask us to make money for them on line. Auction Alley are expert Ebay sellers and everything we do is designed to get you the highest possible price for your items.
• You get paid!! It’s that easy!
In many cases, thanks to our ability to assist in correct valuations and write clear descriptions, we can attract better prices than if you had sold them yourself.
We research your items to ensure they are properly valued. We take professional photos, write detailed descriptions, and
Call us for a friendly chat, or visit our website at www.auctionalley.co.uk.
• We sell your items on Ebay, Amazon or Asos
March 2013
12 ATTLEBORoUGH
www.attleboroughonline.co.uk
Attleborough Heritage Group
Attleborough & District Horticultural Society
Annual General Meeting.
All members of the society have been shocked to hear of the death of Peter Beales.
In a departure from previous years, Attleborough Heritage Group (AHG) held its annual meeting on 31st January 2013 in the Francis Room at the Connaught Hall in Attleborough. The formal business of the meeting, during which officers and committee members were elected and the examined financial accounts were accepted, also included informative reports by a number of officers of AHG. The business having been dealt with swiftly and following a break for refreshments, the Chairman, Cliff Amos presented an illustrated report detailing the considerable achievements of the Group with particular reference to 2012. Those present at the meeting were reminded the presentations which had taken place during the year, the Group’s input into the Town’s Jubilee celebrations, the research being
undertaken on behalf of families with Attleborough links, the cataloguing of the huge photographic archive, co-operation with Attleborough Town Council in relation to the Town Cemetery and the digitalisation of the burial records covering the last 130 years, maintaining the archives of local businesses either in collaboration with the Norfolk Record Office or directly with the businesses themselves. Members were also informed of the launch of the new, improved, interactive website for the Group. Alan Sparrow, President of AHG, in bringing the meeting to a close, encouraged the membership to share their ideas for future projects and events to take the Group forward through 2013 and beyond. ‘preserving yesterday’s and today’s memories for tomorrow’
Peter, in addition to his achievements in making his Rose Nurseries world renowned was a very good friend to our society and has given us active support over many years, not least in making the facilities at the nurseries available to us. At the time of his death he was our long-standing President and even when he was unwell he kept in close contact with us. We offer our sincere condolences to his family. The March meeting of the society will take place on Wednesday 20th March at the usual venue of Attleborough Junior School, starting at 7.30pm. Donny Andrews will be giving a talk on “My Life - Brought up on
a Farm”, and we are always delighted to welcome non-members of the society to these talks. The very inclement weather caused the meeting scheduled for January to be cancelled but we are hoping for better luck for the rest of the year. On the 20th April we have our Spring Show in the Connaught Hall in Attleborough; this show is open to exhibitors who are not members of the society so if you would like to exhibit please contact the Show Secretary, Betty Stacey, on 01953 454790.
Attleborough Bible Society Text and Thought for the Month - March 2013. “The Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many” Matthew 20.25 Jesus came into this world on a rescue mission, not as a conquering king but as a humble servant. After many years as a village carpenter, He began 3 years of teaching, preaching and healing. He had no money; no possessions, no earthly home, yet people flocked to hear
March 2013
Him. The religious leaders hated Jesus because He threatened their power and prestige and so plotted his death with the collusion of the Roman Governor. They succeeded in putting Jesus to death but God raised Him from the dead! What benefit do we have from Jesus’ death and resurrection? Thanks to His willingness to die for us Jesus can come alive in our now repentant hearts, enabling us to spend our lives in glad service to Him.
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ATTLEBORoUGH 13
Holy Week And Easter Services At St Mary’s Church Attleborough and All Saints’ Besthorpe. Sun 24th March - Palm Sunday 8am - Holy Communion (BCP) at St. Mary’s Church.
10am - Parish Eucharist at St. Mary’s Church commencing with a procession from the Rectory drive at 9.45 am.
Macmillan Cancer Support
11.30am - Holy Communion at All Saints’ Besthorpe. 6.30pm - Stainer’s Crucifixion at St. Mary’s Church.
Friday 29th March ������������������� - Good ����������� Friday 11.15 am Ecumenical Act of Witness at Queen’s Square. 1pm Stations of the Cross at St Mary’s Church.
Monday 25th March 8pm Holy Communion at St Mary’s Church.
2pm Good Friday Reflection at St Mary’s Church.
10pm Compline.
8pm Compline at St Mary’s Church.
Tuesday 26th March ����� 8pm Holy Communion at St Mary’s Church.
Saturday 30th March - Holy Saturday 8pm Easter Vigil and renewal of baptismal vows at St Mary’s Church.
10pm Compline.
Sunday 31st March - Easter Day 8am Holy Communion (BCP) at St. Mary’s Church
Spring Fair 9th March 2013. The Attleborough Committee of Macmillan Cancer Support are holding a Spring Fair as part of their fundraising activities.
same time? There will be crafts, cakes and books for sale as well as Easter Eggs, Teddies, Raffles, Tombola and lots more.
This event will be held on Saturday 9th March 2013 in the Attleborough Town Hall, Queens Square from 9.00am - 12 noon.
Our events aim to raise money to enable Macmillan Cancer Support to improve the lives of people in Norfolk affected by cancer and their carers by providing practical, medical, emotional and financial support. The money raised stays in Norfolk.
Why not come along and browse the various stalls and help our charity at the
Attleborough Christian Aid Committee
Wednesday 27th March ����� 8pm Holy Communion at St Mary’s Church 10 pm Compline. Thu 28th March ����������������������� - Maundy ��������������� Thursday 10am Holy Communion at St Mary’s Church.
10am Parish Eucharist at St. Mary’s Church followed by Easter Egg Hunt for children. 11.30am Holy Communion at All Saints’ Besthorpe.
8pm Sung Eucharist with stripping of altars and watch until midnight.
6.30pm Evening Prayer at St Mary’s Church.
Invite you to their annual Quiz Evening. Saturday 9th March 2013 at the Connaught Hall, Station Road, Attleborough.
**** RAFFLE**** All profit for Christian Aid
Quiz Master Mr Pat Murphy TEAMS OF SIX FISH & CHIPS £7.50 Choice of fish/sausage/vegetarian Doors open at 7pm for a 7.30pm start Bar available (please do NOT bring alcohol)
Please Book Your Place In Advance by ringing Dorothy Woolliscroft on 01953 456211, giving the name of your team and a contact number. Please pay as a group, not individually; cheques payable Christian Aid.
March 2013
14 ATTLEBORoUGH
www.attleboroughonline.co.uk
Computer Issue? Attleborough Not Booting? Too Slow? Probus Club Want A Change?
The second monthly meeting of the club was opened by our Chairman John Rogers welcoming our guest and speaker Sam Taylor the Mayor of Attleborough.
Well we can help! New & Recon units - Each branch of Anglia Computer Solutions has just received new stock of all types of new and reconditioned PC’s. Whether it’s a desktop or laptop you are after we have it and at very competitive prices too! Recon laptops from £129! New Laptops from £299! Desktops through all price ranges. Speed up \ Upgrades - Have you already got a PC? is it running a bit slow or not quite up to spec for what you need? Well bring it into us. We will go through the unit, clear out anything that isn’t required, remove any viruses and give it a general speed boost. If you need something a bit extra ask for a RAM upgrade, this should have you typing away in no time. Backups - Are often forgotten, but when your computer crashes it’s no laughing
matter. Every year we see hundreds of people that have lost their work, photos, music etc and without spending a small fortune it’s gone for good. For as little as £10 we can setup a backup system which will ensure you never lose all the hard work you have created. Just pop into one of our branches and have a chat, we will soon determine how much data you need to backup and provide the best solution for you. Home & Business Callouts - We have onsite engineers which can visit your home \ business and solve a whole manner of issues. For all your home and business computer needs call Anglia Computer Solutions on 01953 859753.
Sam introduced herself as “Not the most conventional Mayor” she is a publican and joined the Town Council 5 years ago, members were invited to question Sam on anything of local interest and she was bombarded with questions and given a real grilling which she stood up to and replied to remarkably well. Many of the questions revolved round the building of 375 new houses on the field beside the London Road and the effects to the traffic and infrastructure of our town, Keith Dutton our Vice Chairman raised the points that our already overstretched schools and Doctors surgeries would be increased by 200 children and 750+ people, not to mention an additional 350 cars to our town which is already grid locked at times,The Mayor was fully aware of the problems and said she
was equally frustrated over the granting of this building consent. The last ladies lunch was at the Red Lion Hotel at Thetford on Wednesday 30th January. The meeting closed with a vote of thanks by our Vice Chairman who said we had an excellent Mayor who stood up remarkably well to the bombardment of questions from our members. The Club meet twice a month on alternate Wednesdays at the Connaught Bowls Club in Station Road, we extend a warm welcome to retired professional and business men. Interested Contact Stan Groom. Tel 01953 454427.
Kerry Butcher Here at Kerry Butcher Accountancy Services we are pleased that March is finally here, we hope it means more sunshine, spring flowers and closer to spending time outside. In the office we are concentrating on getting all of our clients ready for the new Real Time System that starts in April 2013. This is the new PAYE system which requires all employers to file returns monthly instead of annually and requires that all employee information is accurate at all times. If you operate payroll then this will affect you so if you have been thinking about passing your payroll over to an accountant or payroll bureau then maybe this is the time to start
March 2013
the ball rolling. Unbelievably it is also only a month or so to the end of the tax year so why not start early this year and get your books in. You don’t have to pay until January 2014 but wouldn’t it be nice to know how much you need to pay so you can start saving or making monthly payments to HMR with their budget plan. We still offer our free initial consultations so why not call us and spring into action.
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ATTLEBORoUGH 15
Hearing Loss Treatment: The Sooner The Better By Karen Finch, Audiologist and Managing Director of The Hearing Care Centre. One in six people in the UK has a hearing loss. This doesn’t mean that the day we turn 60, we wake up in the morning and can’t hear. The process is usually gradual and progressive. When it comes to age-related hearing loss, it may not always be preventable. However, not waiting too long before getting tested and - in case of need - getting fitted with hearing aids sooner rather than later, is a very smart move. Just like our joints and muscles, the use-it or lose-it principle applies to our hearing. Understanding hearing loss and treatment options, such as hearing aids, can assure you don’t lose it before it is too late.
Even if you are one of those people who insist they hear just fine, thank you, there is no harm (and a lot of benefit) in having your hearing checked. One of the many good reasons to get your hearing checked sooner rather than later is this: undetected and untreated hearing loss can diminish your quality of life by making it difficult to communicate and interact with people around you - be it at work or in family and social situations.
Book a hearing test and, if needed, treated with some of today’s fantastic digital hearing aids.
Tel: 0800 096 2637
The Hearing Care Centre Ltd | East Anglia’s Multi-Award Winning Private Hearing Care Company
Local centres in: Attleborough, Botesdale, Dereham, Eye, Halesworth, Harleston and Wymondham.
Web: www.hearingcarecentre.co.uk
On the other hand, treating hearing loss as early as possible, before it starts to impact your emotional, psychological and social well-being, can improve your communication and language skills, allowing you to fully participate in all the leisure and work activities. So don’t wait until you have to cup your ear to hear people around you.
March 2013
16 ATTLEBORoUGH
www.attleboroughonline.co.uk
A Look at Motor Insurance......
Supreme Bathrooms
Whether you are a convicted driver, young driver, or have limited no claims bonus, we can find the policy cover specific to your requirements.
This we feel will give our customer base the opportunity to purchase a kitchen or bathroom through one established independent family business based in Wymondham Norfolk.
Supreme Bathrooms can also offer a supply only alternative if you have your own tradesmen upon which we can organise delivery of your new bathroom or kitchen at your own convenience.
This means our customers only have one port of call with their order, which leaves us to project manage all trades and labour involved in each installation contract giving the customer total piece of mind.
Why not get down to Supreme Bathrooms now to view our fantastic range where you can also book your free home survey if required.
We have negotiated special rates with our panel of Insurers for those careful drivers and special introductory discounts for those without any no claim bonus. We are always able to offer instalment facilities. We deal with many leading
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UK Insurers and Lloyds Underwriters to provide the best possible quotation and cover for our clients, regardless of the risk. Being totally independent means that we are not tied to a single provider and this allows us access to a range of insurance policies from our panel of carefully selected Insurers. Why not let us compare the market for you and deal on a personal level with your requirements. Priory Insurance Brokers are a locally owned, independent, professional organisation who have been based in South Norfolk for over 40 years. We would be pleased to provide quotations or advice for you and look forward to receiving your enquiry. For more information, please feel free to call in to our Wymondham Office.
March 2013
Are pleased to announce that we are now able to supply and install kitchens to our already well established bathroom business.
Supreme Bathrooms have their own installation teams which take care of all trades including tiling, plumbing, electrics etc. Our showroom which currently displays around 80 bathrooms and showers will be refurbished early March to accommodate our fantastic range of new kitchens which will enhance our existing portfolio of products.
This service includes a home visit where we will measure your bathroom or kitchen before discussing your requirements. Then we can create your design on our proffessional CAD system before offering you a complete package price to carry out all work. We can even dispose of the old products and all rubbish before letting you sit back and enjoy your wonderful new Supreme bathroom or kitchen.
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ATTLEBORoUGH 17
Attleborough Amateur Boxing Club
Should You Invest Into ISA’s?
Tickets for Attleborough Amateur Boxing Club’s Home Show on Saturday March 23rd are now on general sale.
Connaught Hall in Attleborough will be packed again for the show with a partisan crowd.
Quite often we are asked by our clients if they should invest into an ISA for the current year.
20 Bouts are being planned with up to 18 Attleborough Boxers scheduled to be on another full card. Competing against boxers coming from such clubs as Swales Gloves & Isle Of Thanet in Kent, Chadwell St Mary, Norwich Lads, Gold Star, Kings Lynn, Macclesfield and Hartlepool Clubs. It is expected that the
The doors are open at 7.00pm and Boxing starting at 8.00pm. Tickets are priced at £12 each and available from Kissinger Estate Agents, Exchange Street, Attleborough ( 01953 454272) and Salon FX in Edenside Drive 01953 451305 or alternatively directly from the Club Gym on the Reception Desk.
Could You Spare Your Time To Help Horses? World Horse Welfare Hall Farm, at Snetterton. Are looking for people who would be willing to give a few hours regularly.
help out in the Visitor Centre, give yard tours or maybe help with the flower beds.
You don’t need to be a horse expert - we just need some friendly faces who could
Contact Justina on 01953 499104 for more information.
The allowance, currently up to £11,280, is available on a tax year basis (currently 6/4/2012 to 5/4/2013). The limits can change each year and the Chancellor’s Autumn Statement indicated that the allowance will increase to £11,520 in the next tax year. The benefits of ISA’s are that the interest (cash ISA’s) and growth (equity ISA’s) is not subject to tax. Mostly everyone prefers investments with tax benefits so ISA’s quite often have an appeal. As the rules covering how much can be invested into a cash ISA (up to £5640) and how much of the total allowance can be invested into an equity ISA can be confusing, please speak to us if you need any help. We can also advise on appropriate investment areas and the
most suitable ISA provider for your needs. Should you invest into ISA’s? Quite often the answer to this question is yes you should but please speak to us to make sure that an ISA is the most suitable product for you. Your ISA allowance is a ‘use it or lose it allowance’ as it can only be used in each relevant tax year. We are here to help! ML Financial Associates Ltd Suite 4, The Old Dairy, Elm Farm Business Park, Norwich Common, Wymondham, Norfolk, NR18 0SW. Tel: 01953 711123 Fax: 01953 600479 www.mlfinancialassociates.co.uk.
March 2013
18 ATTLEBORoUGH
www.attleboroughonline.co.uk
HARLESTON
Make Sure The Easter Bunny
Harleston Job Clubs
...doesn’t visit your dog!...
Are you looking for work? Then come along to the Job Clubs were you will find friendly and informal support.
Easter is just around the corner, meaning that it is important (just as it is all year round) to keep chocolate, cakes and chocolate-coated goodies safely away from your pets. Many people are not aware of the danger if their pet consumes chocolate, but the effects can be fatal.
Take your pet to a Veterinary Centre immediately where he or she will be induced to vomit unless the pet is twitchy, unaware of his/her surroundings or seizuring. There is no antidote for chocolate poisoning which is why it is so important to keep chocolate securely away from your pet. If your pet has ingested chocolate he/she may need to be hospitalised by your vet for supportive treatment and observation.
Spot the signs Clinical signs are usually seen within 6-12 hours of eating. Initial signs include increased thirst, vomiting, diarrhoea and restlessness. These signs can progress to hyperactivity, high or low blood pressure and in some cases a coma. Due to the high fat content of chocolate, it can also trigger pancreatitis in some animals. Fatality is usually due to changes to the heart rhythm, high temperature or respiratory failure. If you think your pet may have ingested chocolate…
March 2013
If the ingestion and the treatment are performed in the first 2-4 hours, the prognosis is usually good so it is incredibly important to contact your vet as soon as you suspect your pet may have ingested chocolate. Even if he/she has only eaten what you may think is a small amount, still contact your vet for their advice. The Old Golfhouse Veterinary Group have 4 centres in Norfolk & Suffolk and are happy to answer any of your concerns regarding this, or any other concern regarding your pet.
Every Wednesday 10am - 2pm, everyone welcome. Every Thursday 12 - 2pm, for 16-24 year olds.
We have already helped over 50 members this year with their job search, career choices, CVs, covering letters, on-line application forms, computer skills, interview tips and advice, certified courses, apprenticeships, business start up options and much more. All our services are free and confidential so please come along, everyone is welcome.
be holding 1:1 appointments offering additional support if you are looking for work or seeking training/learning opportunities. IT Help - every Wednesday 12.30-2pm - please book Help with anything IT from sending emails to carrying out online job searches. Employers - Looking For Staff? Advertise your vacancy for free at the Jobs Club and reach local jobseekers.
Wednesday (open to everyone) - drop in anytime in between 10am-2pm.
For more information please contact Lucy Marjoram or Jake Kubala Call 01379 851920, Text 07857 374857,
Thursday (for 16-24 year olds) - drop in anytime in between 12-2pm.
email: jobsclub@harleston-norfolk.org.uk,
What’s on in March
find us on Facebook Harleston Jobs Club
Careers Advice - Tuesday 26 March 9.45am-3.30pm - please book A professional Careers Advisor will
or call into Harleston Information Plus, 8 Exchange Street, Harleston.
20 Millbank estate agents
Millbank Estate Agents Have Moved. Eighteen years ago Tony Beales acquired the well known and established firm of Millbank & Co located prominently on the corner of Connaught Plain in Attleborough; little did he know then that the business would be expanding eighteen years later into fully refurbished prestigious new 2 storey offices with car parking. “When I took the business over in 1994 the country, as it is today was in recession, times were very tough and the economic climate was uncertain, with it being my first ever business venture I didn’t have a lot of money, so I kept costs tight with my sole ambition being, to get through the first year, survive, then reinvest in the second year, do the same in year 3 and see where I was at”. Following some very successful years from those early days, the business grew and grew, took on more staff and in 2008 Millbank Letting Agents was set up from a cold start and very quickly established itself as a front runner in the local lettings market, “this was the ideal
March 2013
time to enter the lettings market as the property market was beginning to stall and by the end of the year, the bank crash that followed then caused house prices to fall”. As the business continued to grow, especially on the Lettings side, it soon became apparent that the current premises Millbank were operating from on Connaught Plain was restricting natural growth, more room was needed along with more staff and more storage. “Obviously enjoying the location that Connaught Plain offered was a huge benefit and one I was reluctant to move away from however any planned expansion in Connaught Plain offices was going to be severely restricted due to the lack of space”. “Early last year I decided to look at some options about relocating the company to larger premises in the town but also making sure that it wouldn’t harm the business, as relocating can have a negative impact as I have seen before in
@Dispatch_Mag Millbank estate agents 21
other towns I have worked in, in the past, the move had to be timed right and the location had to be right also”. “Once I had found the ideal premises, the initial idea had been to relocate in the autumn of last year but we were very busy on both sales and lettings, so it was decided to carry out the move in December, traditionally a quieter time of year. The refurbishment and renovations all went very well, a few surprises along the way which is to be expected, but all the tradesman and women I employed to carry out the improvement work were very sympathetic and grasped what I was aiming to achieve, I was very lucky that everyone I used in this project did an absolutely superb first class job and within the tight time constraints I placed upon them, as the move had to be completed by the 12th December 2012, I think it’s fair to say that the quality of workmanship is reflected in how the office looks today”. Attleborough ‘s longest established estate agent, Millbank Estate Agents
now has a new home in Exchange Street, the light, bright and spacious new offices offer clients and customers the opportunity to feel relaxed in discussing their business, the feature rustic red brick facing back wall compliments so well the front office showroom with its well illuminated window displays which include 2 digital property screens scrolling all available properties, something unique to Attleborough Estate Agents. The new double fronted office provides a window exclusively for Lettings on one side and Residential sales on the other with lettings having its own office on the ground floor to the rear of the building. These new offices set the perfect platform for Millbank Estate Agents to move forward and add to the high standards they’ve already set and they look forward to welcoming clients old and new into their new office for a busy 2013.
Tel: 01953 456789 www.DispatchMagazine.co.uk
Proud To Be Promoting Millbank Estate Agents
March 2013
22 HEALTH & WELLBEING
www.DispatchMagazine.co.uk
Tea Tree
Eden Natural Beauty
Hold the disinfectant!
Is situated on Sawmills Road in Diss,and is into its 11th successful year of trading.
Next time you need to clean anything, whether it’s a wound or a work surface, try using tea tree, the great Australian essential oil. It has proven properties, is safe and multi-purpose. Only use aromatherapy grade essential oils when you want healing or anti-bacterial properties. There are many grades of tea tree oil on the market, and while they’re good for non-specific cleaning, you won’t get the serious benefits. The
label on the bottle should include the botanical name of the plant; ‘Melaleuca alternifolia.’ • Antiseptic: wash small open wounds, infected or not with a solution of 5 drops in 100ml of water. For a hand wash, add 2 drops into your hand, add a squirt of soap, and wash as normal • Headache (especially sinus): inhale direct from bottle or tissue • Flu: add 3 drops to a bath; use 2-3 drops in a vaporiser • Toothbrush hygiene: put one drop onto your toothbrush and leave in the air to dry. It will disinfect it and provide a built-in mouthwash next day. Treat nailbrush in the same way • Spots: as soon as a spot appears, dab with tea tree oil • Disinfectant: add a few drops when washing sinks, work surfaces and baths.
March 2013
Emma Hines has 19 years of experience in the beauty industry. Emma is extremely grateful to her loyal clients over the years, some of which have been to Emma for 16 years and become great friends. Eden continous to remain a proffesional but welcoming salon,along with her therapists which are all Espa trained,and a great team. Eden Natural Beauty s name reflects on the fact that we continue to offer the type of treatments that most women require from waxing,tinting,and manicures and pedicures to luxurious Espa Facials ,wraps and massage. We have avoided offering non surgical face lifts,or botox and trust that our proffesional product range Espa (exclusively to this area) has been scientifically formulated and designed to target specific skin conditions. We stock a full range of retail products and wonderful
gift boxes throughout the year. Jessica nail range formulated a Geleration nail polish approx two years ago and has proven to be very popular. This is ideal for a busy working woman as it is non chip and lasts approx two weeks. We introduce new colours each season. Why not take us up on our amazing offer of £20. Our Espa wrap offer is an ideal pre holiday or end of winter pick me up. We body brush you,exfoliate you and smother you in Algae or mud before wrapping you in a foil blanket.We then use an Espa oil and carry out an amazing scalp massage. After 15 mins relaxation and the product is showered off we apply a body butter. The special offer this month then includes a 20 minute back massage. All for just £36... Please pop into Eden for a price list and we d love to welcome old and new clients to enjoy our special offers. We have some great mothers day gifts and vouchers. Offers end March 2013.
NEW BUCKenham art exhibition 23
New Buckenham Art Exhibition 2013 The Easter Weekend has become a popular time for art lovers as New Buckenham opens its doors for the annual Art Exhibition. It takes place in their spacious village hall not far from the church. The facilities are ideal with good lighting and exhibits well displayed. Artists come from various parts of Norfolk and Suffolk many are professional and some are hobby painters. There is a wide variety of work from traditional studies to the more contemporary approach. Some artist’s work in watercolours others in oil and acrylics and then there are a good section of prints and photographs.
She is also well known for her Norfolk landscapes and more recently her botanical work. Here you can see a couple of her watercolours. She paints much of her work from life but uses other images and her own imagination to give scenes a mystical atmosphere. This year the Opening Night is Friday 29th March from 7.30pm to 10pm. Admission is £3.00 including wine and nibbles. It is a very popular night and often many pictures are sold too.
This year for the first time artists have been asked to exhibit unframed pieces and also greetings cards.
You can view the exhibition over the Easter Weekend Saturday 30th Sunday 31st and Monday 1st from 11am - 4.30pm.
One artist exhibiting this year is Hazel Rush who has exhibited each year and was the person who started the exhibition over 18 years ago.
All proceeds from the event go to the Village Hall and St. Martin’s Church New Buckenham.
March 2013
24 breckland home clean
Breckland Homeclean Breckland Homeclean, based in Attleborough Town Centre has been providing a Domestic Service throughout the area for the past 15 years! We provide a quality service to customers across the Breckland and South Norfolk area, covering the towns of Attleborough, Diss, Wymondham and Watton plus the surrounding villages. We offer a regular weekly or fortnightly service; however some of our customers need a more frequent service, so we visit them several times a week, and some customers on a daily basis. We also offer “One Off Sparkle Cleans” where team members come in and provide a full clean to your specific requirements. All of the Team Members are carefully selected, fully referenced checked and are subject to the CRB (Criminal Records Bureau) process. Some of the members have been part
March 2013
of the team for 10 years, whist many have been in excess of 5 years. The service provided appeals to a wide range of customers those who are no longer able to do it all themselves - those who have busy lives and don’t have the time to do it - and those who just don’t wish to do it!! We have customers who are at home whist we visit and those who are out at work, in those cases we hold keys and alarm codes. We have customers who work out of the area or overseas, whose homes we manage in readiness for return at the weekends. If you require assistance on a regular weekly or fortnightly basis we will ensure that you have the same Team Member on the same day and at the same time each time
we visit. Payment is simple - we raise an invoice at the end of the month for work done during that month. Payment can be paid by internet banking, debit/credit card or cheque. If you are looking for a quality service provided by a team who are focused on customer satisfaction, in the first
instance contact us to discuss your requirements. We can then arrange for one of our customer liaison team to visit you and detail your specific needs. To contact us telephone 01953 458447 or 01953 458443, alternatively email us quality@brecklandhomeclean.co.uk
breckland home clean 25
Above: Amanda Johnson
Above: Catherine Wright
Above: Jean Gibbs
Above: Jennie Harrison
Above: Julie Stannard
Above: Lyn Corley
Above: Lynda Ede
Above: Penny Ware
Above: Roma Smart
Above: Alison Neal
Above: Peter Neal
Above: Sylvia Shearman
Above: Shirley Dryden
Above: Tessa Martin
Above: Sue Kinselley
Above: Sue Woods
Are You Interested In Joining The Team? If you can achieve excellent results and customer satisfaction, able to provide suitable references, willing to go through the CRB process - Contact us for an application form - 01953 458447/458443. March 2013
26 ELDERLY
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Manor Court Resource Centre
South Norfolk Mobility Centre
Manor Court Resource Centre for the elderly is based in Griston, Norfolk.
Let us help you enjoy your independence.
It is open 5 days a week Monday Friday from 9am - 4pm.
a fully trained staff team who believe in promoting independence in all individuals.
We have around 36 guests per day all aged 55+, with social services funded and private places available.
Reminiscence activities are available for individuals with dementia.
Our service provides transport either by social services or our own transport for our guests. We specialise in Dementia care, with quality specialist care delivered by
Extend exercise classes, musical entertainers, singing, dancing, quizzes, table top activities. Freshly cooked meals which are cooked on the premises are also provided to our guests.
Let’s hope that by Easter we may have some decent weather!
give that extra bit of confidence to feel steady and in control.
With the prolonged cold of the winter and the snowfall, we are certainly ready for Spring (and some sunshine!)
Scooters are always popular and we stock the main brands such as TGA, Mercury, Rascal and Shoprider.
If your thoughts are turning to getting out and about, then perhaps we can help with your mobility. It might be that a walking stick may give you the support you need.
If you are not a car driver but would like a scooter that’s not a problem - we always give tuition, so that you are safe and feel confident.
We sell canes which fold up neatly to fit in a bag - you can choose from plain black to pretty floral designs. We stock three and four wheeled walkers and walking frames, all designed to aid you with walking and to
March 2013
We will show you all the do’s and dont’s. So for your mobility needs come and see us. See more at: www.southnorfolkmobilitycentre.co.uk
28 MOTORING REVIEW
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Vauxhall Astra VXR 2.0i Turbo (280PS) By Tim Barnes-Clay, Motoring Journalist.
THE LATEST Astra VXR from Vauxhall is exciting to look at and delivers supercar performance. The muscular stance, the crazily big 20 inch alloy wheels and the leather hip-hugging sports seats aren’t exactly subtle. And, if for some reason you’ve had a ‘senile moment’ and need reminding further that you’re not in any ‘normal’ Astra, don’t fret because ‘VXR’ is emblazoned on the steering wheel. So, in terms of looks, the Astra has done a good job of puffing itself up before even going anywhere - but does it deliver on the move? The answer to that is a slightly schizophrenic one: yes, and no.
March 2013
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You see, whilst the VXR benefits from chassis modifications to cater for the 2.0-litre turbocharged engine, which produces a whopping 276bhp and 295lb ft of torque, the front wheels sometimes find it hard to command the clout. This means when you hit the gas hard there’s a lot of torque-steer and the steering wheel can almost yank itself free from your grip. But this makes the Astra fun – in a challenging sort of way. After all, it is a thoroughbred from Vauxhall’s sizzling hot-hatch stable and excitable beasts need to be kept in check. On the straights, the viciously quick Vauxhall certainly attracts looks from fellow motorists and the deep rumble, building up to a turbo whistle, probably hurts their eardrums too. But through the bends is where you’ll grin like a Cheshire cat. This is because, compared with the 1.6-litre turbocharged GTC model, the Astra VXR’s springs have been stiffened by 30 per cent and the car lowered by 10mm, to
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allow more driver connection on road and track. The result is exceptional traction when the way ahead starts going all twisty on you. And when it comes to scrubbing off speed - the almighty Astra has it covered. The vast cross-drilled, ventilated front discs and four-piston callipers demonstrate that Vauxhall and Brembo have worked hard to develop a braking system which will bring a car capable of 0-62mph in 5.9 seconds and 155mph to a swift stop. To make life behind the wheel of the mighty motor even more interesting you have the choice of three chassis settings which can be selected at the push of a button. ‘Standard’ delivers all-round performance for a range of road driving, with ‘Sport’ stiffening the dampers for reduced roll and tighter body control. ‘VXR’ is the most extreme mode. Not only does it enhance throttle responsiveness, and change the instrument backlighting from white to red, but the dampers are stiffened even more and tilt is further reduced during cornering. There’s no doubt about it, this is an exhilarating car to drive, and one that will get you lots of attention. Perhaps too much, judging from the amount of teen racers determined to take you on every time you want to
nip to Tesco. Great; but if you wanted the attention of spotty 18 year olds wearing baseball caps backwards then you’d have bought an old Nova GTE with a fake turbo whistler shoved up the tailpipe. No, in some ways the Astra VXR isn’t quite classy enough – but at nearly £27,000 on the road, you’ll need to have a fairly respectable occupation to afford one. PROS • Exciting • Powerful • Great Brakes CONS • Torque-steer • Image FAST FACTS • Max speed: 155 mph • 0-62 mph: 5.9 secs • Combined mpg: 34.9 • Engine: 1998 cc 16 valve 4 cylinder turbo petrol • Max. power (bhp): 276 at 5500 rpm • Max. torque (lb/ft): 295 at 25004500 rpm • CO2: 189 g/km • Price: £26,995 on the road
30 DISPATCH BUSINESS DIRECTORY
March 2013
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DISPATCH BUSINESS DIRECTORY 31
MOTORING
March 2013