Attleborough Dispatch

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ISSUE 116 Dispatch May 2011

NEWS FOR DISS AND ATTLEBOROUGH RESIDENTS

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GENERAL News

Dispatch May 2011

News from across your region

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Out & About

Is Launching A ‘Give Us A Tenner’ Campaign...

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Places To Visit.

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Homes & Gardens

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Health, Beauty & Wellbeing Feeling Good.

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Motoring Directory Local Garages.

Mount Street Open Gardens, Art Exhibition And Much More!

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Help The Soldiers

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Diss Park Radio Park Radio Returns To The Airwaves Of Diss And The Surrounding Area.

Prince’s Trust ‘Team Programme’ For Young People Between 16-25 Years Old Who Are Unemployed.

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Heritage Group Retail Therapy Event Is A Sell-Out.

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Help Our Troops In Afghanistan.

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Girlguiding Wayland Celebrated The Royal Wedding In Style By Using It As The Theme For Their Craft Show.

Sunday, May 15th From 1-5pm.

Business Directory Local Businesses.

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The Red Feather Club / 95th Bomb Group Heritage Association.

Caring For The Elderly News And Advice.

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Diss Corn Hall

Grand Open Day...

Town Council Noticeboard Town Council Elections.

Up Coming Events For May.

Looking After Your Property.

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2011 Diss Carnival

Don’t Forget Your PJs Women’s Only Fundraising Event.

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She Fashion Show Join Us On Friday 20th May 2011.

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Welcome to

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2011 Diss Carnival Diss Museum The 2011 Diss Carnival is launching a ‘Give us a Tenner’ campaign to help towards the mounting cost of putting on the annual spectacular.

May events for Friends in High Places: The Manning Story include a day devoted to the family, a Buddhist clay event and a murder mystery.

This year’s event is expected to cost more than £5,000 and, even though organisers have already raised almost £4,000, they are keen to ensure the day is more memorable than ever and are asking the town’s businesses to chip in towards the cost.

The Denny Centre, in Thomas Manning Road, is hosting a day of displays, presentations etc about the family who were Diss rectors for 138 years.

“We realise times are tight but all we ask is for local traders to contribute a minimum of £10 towards the cost of putting on the Carnival,” said committee spokesman Steve Penny.

This year’s parade through the town centre on Sunday, June 19th, promises to be more colourful than ever with 28 booking forms for floats already sent out. The theme is fairy stories and nursery rhymes. Among requests to join the parade have been a steam engine and a Harley Davidson Motorcycle Club.

Blacksmiths Cottage Nurseries will be taking some of their rare birds and animals to the afternoon fun day at Diss Town Football Club, where a wide range of activities and displays are being organised.

Admission to the fun day at Diss Town Football Club has been kept at £3. This year’s programme will be free of charge and circulated to all households in town before the big day. More stewards and volunteers to help on the day are still needed.

To offer financial help, stewarding support or to find out more about how you can be involved, contact Carnival co-ordinator Doreen Collins, 01379 642018, email: doreencollins@btinternet.com

Thomas, the Himalayan traveller who met the Dalai Lama 200 years ago, will be impersonated; and there will be things to see and do from 10.30am on Friday 20th May. If you are interested in Buddhism or want to find out more about it, there is a clay sculpture session at the Friends Meeting House from 10.00am to 4.30pm on Saturday 28th May.

uses the real, unsolved murder of Louie Bryant in Diss in 1829 and is investigated by the Mannings. The Reverend William Manning has called the Vestry meeting to try and solve the murder. He questions witnesses but remains baffled. After a break, his brother Thomas, back from abroad, appears to help solve the murder and expose the worm in the local bud. The witnesses are played by the audience, who are promised a stimulating evening. Phone (01379) 650618 for more information.

Breathing, connecting, meditation and mindfulness all come into this art. Numbers are limited to seven and it costs £25 for the day, with all materials provided.

Bring a veggie lunch to share.

Phone (01379) 650618 to book.

The April events were all well attended.

I gave a Manning presentation to Diss Antiquarian Society, while Robert Manning gave one to the Friends of Diss Museum.

Diss Film Society showed Kundun, a film about the Dalai Lama, and a communal lunch of Tibetan food was greatly enjoyed in the church hall.

That evening at 7.30pm there will be a Murder Mystery at St. Mary’s Church. It

See www.disscommunity.net for the full programme. Basil Abbott.

Colours Of Day One of the great attractions when visiting an ancient church is often its stain glass windows the colours are so beautiful especially when the sun shines through.

St.Mary’s Parish Church in Diss has a lovely east window which is in need of urgent repair for the stain glass is bowing inwards.

Not surprising its life expectancy has come to an end as it was installed in 1857 and has survived all the elements weather wise and come through two world wars unscathed. This giant window plus three others nearby that need some attention will cost £78,000. We are lucky to have a very good steering committee who know where to apply hopefully for some funding, but this very active church is putting on a special weekend for the general public.

On Saturday 28th May from 10am to 5pm everyone is invited to come along to an arts and craft event where there will be displays from local talent and a working model railway on display. Outside, if fine, there will be stalls from the mini market to browse through and refreshments will be available.

Dispatch May 2011

On this Saturday only, there will be stain glass window experts on hand to tell you all about their profession.

In the evening at 7pm there will be a ‘Murder Mystery’ to solve and you can read more about this in the above article from Basil Abbot, refreshments yet to be decided on, will be available but you will need a ticket in advance from the parish office. Sunday from 12ish to 5pm on the 29th May the arts and crafts show only will continue.

So do come along and see this window soon to have its stain glass taken out and reloaded and when that happens we can all look forward to the finish of this refurbishment and once again enjoy the colours of day cascading through.

Gerry Hosking, Church Publicity Officer.

News from across your region

Diss Corn Hall Up coming events for May. 5 May – 4 June: Art Norman Ackroyd - Norfolk Skies and Random Journeys Time: 11am-4pm Mon-Sat. Price: Free Contact: Stables Gallery (beside the Corn Hall)

Saturday 7 May: Music Steve Ashley - support Something Happened Time: 8pm Price: £8 Contact: Box Office 01379 652241 www.disscornhall.co.uk

Thursday 5 May: Film The King’s Speech (12A) Time: 8pm Price: £4 / Students £2 Contact: Box Office 01379 652241 www.disscornhall.co.uk

Monday 9 May: Film The King’s Speech (12A) Time: 8pm Price: £4 / Students £2 Contact: Box Office 01379 652241 www.disscornhall.co.uk

Friday 6 May: Theatre Open Space Theatre Company – The Importance of Being Ernest Time: 7.30pm Price: Tickets £9 / Concs £8 Contact: Box Office 01379 652241 www.disscornhall.co.uk

Thursday 12 May: Workshop Etching demonstration with Norman Ackroyd Time: 2.30pm-5.00pm Price: £7 Contact: Box Office 01379 652241 www.disscornhall.co.uk

Saturday 7 May: Film The King’s Speech (12A) Time: 3pm Price: £4 / Students £2 Contact: Box Office 01379 652241 www.disscornhall.co.uk

Thursday 12 May: Art/Word Talk and Q&A session with Norman Ackroyd Time: 8pm, Price: £5 Contact: Box Office 01379 652241 www.disscornhall.co.uk

Saturday 14 May: Music Ameen Ali Khan Time: 8pm Price: £12 / Concs £11 Contact: Box Office 01379 652241 www.disscornhall.co.uk

Friday 27 May: Comedy Red Card Comedy Club - On the Road Time: 8.30pm Price: Advance £8 / Door £9.50 Contact: Box Office 01379 652241 www.disscornhall.co.uk

Thursday 19 May: Film Social Network (12A) Time: 8pm Price: £4 / Students £2 Contact: Box Office 01379 652241 www.disscornhall.co.uk

Spotlight...

Friday 20 May: Music The Hamsters play Jimi Hendrix & ZZ Top! Time: 8.30pm Price: £15 Contact: Box Office 01379 652241 www.disscornhall.co.uk Saturday 21 May: Family The Saturday Club. The Classic Buskers – Classical Music Without the Boring Bits Time: 2pm Price: £5 / Children £3 Conact: Box Office 01379 652241 www.disscornhall.co.uk

The King’s Speech (12A) With Colin Firth, Helena Bonham Carter, Geoffrey Rush Whether it brings home Oscars or not, Tom Hooper’s richly enjoyable and handsomely produced movie about George VI’s struggle to cure his stammer is a massively confident crowd-pleaser, and lives up to all the hype. What looks at first like a conventional period drama about royals is actually a witty and elegant new perspective on the abdication crisis and on the dysfunctional quiver at the heart of pre-war Britain. Colin Firth’s performance is masterful and Helena Bonham Carter was born to be the Queen Mother.

Dispatch May 2011

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DISS News

Monsters (12A)

Grand Open Day...

Diss Corn Hall - Thursday 2 June 8pm. Tickets £4 / Students £2.

The Red Feather Club / 95th Bomb Group Heritage Association.

Directed by Gareth Edwards, 2010.

UK, 94 mins. With Scoot McNairy, Whitney Able

The Red Feather Club / 95th Bomb Group Heritage Association in Horham, Suffolk, four miles south-east of Eye off the B1117 will be holding their Grand Open Day on Sunday 15th May from 10am4pm with military vehicles, re-enactors, trade stands, exhibits from other aviation societies, visitors from the US & a flypast.

Diss Air Cadets will parade the colours.

A thrilling, post-modern science fiction romance from the British first-time writer and director, Gareth Edwards.

New Rules On Demolition Work In the past the Secretary of State had issued guidance that demolition work did not require a developer to provide an Environmental Impact Assessment when seeking planning permission/listed building consent for certain demolition works.

The new position is, however, that this additional information may be required prior to any demolition work taking place.

Clients should be advised to check with the Local Planning Authority before starting any work or seeking the appropriate consents.

In order to comply with existing rules from Europe, developers may well need to provide addition information to local planning authorities where they intend to demolish listed buildings or building in a

designated conservation area.

In the past Parliament had decided that such additional information on the impact of demolition was not required.

Any developer ought to check with the local planning authority as to the precise position on demolition before starting work.

For more information relating to this please contact Phil Mason at Overburys on 01603 610481.

The 1285th Military Police Company plans to open their new “Guard Room” alongside the revamped Red Feather Club museum.

Denham Village Hall, the base’s former

Guard Room, will hold an exhibition of work by local wildlife artist, Mark Chester and offer cream teas. Horham church tower will also be open, offering panoramic views of the area.

95th BGHA contact chairman James Mutton: jamesmutton@suffolkonline.net and 01728 860930.

Websites: www.95thbg-horham.com & www.markchester.co.uk

Help Pauline Cooke Raise £2,000 Pauline Cooke a 72 year old of Diss, Norfolk will be doing a charity abseil down 10 storeys of the Ipswich Hospital Maternity Unit on July 10th 2011.

Pauline was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease 10 years ago but certainly doesn’t let it stop her doing what she can to raise money to help fellow patients.

for 2 charity swims, this will be Pauline’s last fundraising event so she hopes the local community will help her reach her target of £2,000.

Pauline hopes to generate more than £2,000 from the event; all money raised will be donated to the Dunston Ward at the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital and the Brain Repair Centre at Addenbrooke’s Hospital in Cambridge.

If you would like to contact Pauline with regards to sponsoring her you can call her on 01379 640320, or cheques can be made out to Pauline Cooke and sent to: 7 Cherry Tree Court, Diss, Norfolk, IP22 4QW.

Having raised a lot of money from various events in the past including over £3,000

Diss U3A At April’s meeting the guest speaker was Roger Simpson who gave a talk on Sir John Tenniel, illustrator of Lewis Carroll’s first two “Alice” books.

Prior to his association with Carroll John Tenniel was a successful cartoonist working for Punch magazine where his talent for political satire was evident in his humorous drawings.

In 1864 when Lewis Carroll was searching for an illustrator for Alice In Wonderland John Tenniel was Carroll’s one and only choice. Relying only on the text and his own imagination Tenniel’s depiction of Carroll’s characters came to life and although many of them such as The Mad Hatter, Tweedledum and Tweedledee have been immortalised through his drawings and they were in many cases originally

Dispatch May 2011

inspired by real life events and personalities where it was obvious that Tenniel’s talent for political satire remained with him.

For more information on Diss U3A please telephone 01379 642674.

The next meeting will be on 5th May at the United Reformed Church commencing at 10.30am.

News from across your region

State-Of-The-Art Gym To Open In Stradbroke Following a significant investment, Stradbroke Swimming Pool is soon to be known as Stradbroke Pool & Fitness Centre - thanks to the addition of a state-of-the-art gym.

Stradbroke Swimming Pool, situated on Wilby Road, is a well-liked facility that has been enjoyed by people of all ages for almost 20 years and from 14th May local residents will be able to use the brand new state-of-theart gym as well as the swimming pool, to stay active and maintain a healthy lifestyle.

The existing facility will be extended to include a new 250m2 gym, which has been funded by Mid Suffolk District Council in partnership with Everyone Active who operates the centre.

The new fitness facilities will cater for people of all ages and abilities, with a broad range of easy to use equipment across 33 stations. From treadmills and exercise bikes to total body crosstrainers, rowers, climbers and adaptive

motion trainers, and for resistance and weight training there’s a good selection of machines as well as two free weights areas. For those that like to be entertained when working out, the equipment has personal audio access via headphones to the TV’s in the gym which play music, videos or current affairs – keeping you in-touch whilst well motivated.

To celebrate this exciting re-launch, the centre is holding a free open day on Saturday 14th May, which is a great opportunity for you to come and view the new facilities, try out a range of activities (call the centre for full information on the activities timetable), chat to the staff and discuss the Everyone Active moneysaving membership options.

Business As Usual During the construction of the new gym Stradbroke Swimming Pool remains open and continues to offer something for everyone. Stradbroke is well known for its great range of pool activities and swim sessions for all ages, including

Aqua Aerobics, Swim for All, Aqua Fun and Swim for Fitness. Swimming lessons are available from 5 months old as part of a progressive, award-winning programme delivered by ASA qualified instructors. Lessons take place 50 weeks of the year, 6 days a week, plus there is no waiting list so you can enrol at any time.

It’s never too late to learn, if you haven’t taken the plunge, Stradbroke’s adult lessons are a must. These are very popular and the centre also has disabled access, a uniquely designed pool featuring 2 shallow ends and a hoist to further assist with access into the pool itself.

To find out more call 01379 384376 or visit www.everyoneactive.com

So if you’re looking for fantastic fitness and swim facilities in your area, pop along to Stradbroke Pool & Fitness Centre, Wilby Road, Stradbroke, where there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Dispatch May 2011

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DISS News

Mount Street Open Comercrawley Gardens, Art Exhibition And Much More!

Your questions answered…

Question: I have been injured in a car accident caused by my husband – can I claim compensation?

Sunday, May 15th from 1-5pm.

Answer: Yes, a compensation claim can be pursued by, say, an injured passenger in a car even if the accident is the fault of the driver and she/he is a relative. The other common example is a claim brought by an injured pillion passenger on a motorcycle.

Also there will be Morris Dancing on Mere Street from 2.30pm, a plant stall, second hand gardening book stall, teas and home-made cakes.

Mount Street residents in Diss are once again opening up their spring gardens to the public and to complement this, in St. Mary’s Parish Church, there is an exhibition and sale of floral watercolour paintings by the National Horticultural Society award-winning artist, Christine Eldridge.

Dispatch May 2011

All this for a £3 entry fee, children under 11yrs free, with a discovery trail specially arranged for them.

Come and enjoy a celebration of Spring in all its beauty.

All proceeds to Christian Aid.

A claim can still be brought even if the injured passenger is also covered by the motor insurance policy. This would occur where, say, a husband and wife are both insured to drive a vehicle; if the husband is driving and causes an accident that injures his wife who is a passenger in the car, the wife can pursue a claim against her husband which the motor insurance company will deal with.

Therefore, the fact that you are related to or living with the person responsible for the accident does not prevent you from pursuing a claim for compensation against them. Provided that person is

insured to drive the car then the insurers will be responsible for the claim. If the case went to court, legal proceedings would need to be issued against your partner. However, the insurance company would be responsible for paying whatever compensation was agreed or awarded. It is worthwhile mentioning however, that the vast majority of personal injury claims settle without the need to start court proceedings.

If you have a question for our legal advice team you can submit it by email: enquiries@comercrawley.co.uk or in writing to: Chancery House, Victoria Road, Diss, Norfolk IP22 4HZ.

News from across your region

Turkish Cuisine On Your Door Step The first ever Turkish restaurant has opened in Diss, Turkuaz, run by brothers Yusuf and Taran who have been serving the residents of Diss for many years from their other shops, Pizza Plus and Istanbul Kebab, offers an extensive choice of delicious Turkish dishes and Meze for you to enjoy.

With a cosy, welcoming atmosphere you are guaranteed an enjoyable night out at Turkuaz. Sample of our menu to the right.

Visit www.turkuaz.co.uk to book a table, view our full menu and see the special offers Turkuaz are offering each week.

Bookings can also be made by calling 01379 642147.

Yusuf and Taran look forward to seeing all customers old and new and continuing to offer the level of service they have done for many years to the residents of Diss in their new restaurant.

Dispatch May 2011

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DISS News

Help The Soldiers

Diss United Reformed Church Launch New Meeting Place For Young People

Help our troops in Afghanistan.

OMG! is a new venture being run by members from Diss United Reformed Church on Mere Street, to provide somewhere for young people between the ages of 11 and 16 to hang out.

Trish Edwards of Diss and her dedicated team of helpers make up shoeboxes for the front line soldiers in Afghanistan to help lift the spirits of our troops by offering them simple things that we take for granted. Trish will be sending another batch at the end of May and is asking for your help.

Donations of the following are gratefully received • Woolen hats, gloves and socks • Sun tan lotion and lipsalve • Any sachet drinks i.e – coffee, hot chocolate, cuppa soup etc • Polos/Chewing Gum • Boiled sweets • Crisps and Twiglets • Playing Cards/Small quiz books • Biros • Wet wipes • Cereal bars Please take your shoe box to Diss Tourist Information Office or Diss Library closing date is 20th May 2011.

10 Dispatch May 2011

Two evenings have been planned leading up to the summer in the hope that the group will continue on a monthly basis in the autumn.

OMG! aims to provide a space for young people to get together, to talk about things that are meaningful to them and to have fun. It is open to anyone between the ages of 11 and 16 and there is no charge for attending. Rev Julian Sanders from the

United Reformed Church says “Some of our members recognise a need to provide this type of venue for young people in Diss and we hope that we can offer a fun place to come and perhaps engage with issues that are relevant to this generation.”

The first OMG! is on Friday 6th May from 7:00pm to 9:00pm and is meeting in the Back Room of the United Reformed Church on Mere Street.

Anyone wanting more information or wanting to volunteer should contact Rev Julian Sanders on 01842 750548.

Concert Of Songs From The Shows At St Mary’s Church Diss on Saturday 18th June 7.30 p.m.

Local singing teacher, Pamela Hart, 5 other singing friends and accompanist Jenny Eason will be performing a Concert of Songs from the Shows at St Mary’s Church, Diss on Saturday 18th June 7.30 p.m. Proceeds will be given to the Church East Window

Restoration Fund. Music will range from the shows of Rodgers and Hammerstein to Andrew LLoyd Webber.

Admission on the door will be £5 (Concessions available).

News from across your region

The Refusal Of Life Sustaining Treatment Under the Mental Capacity Act 2005 (MCA) allows capable adults to make Advance Decisions to refuse life sustaining treatment in specified circumstances, to take effect in the future if they then lack the mental capacity to make such decisions.

The Act gives statutory effect to “Living Wills” but provides that the Advance Decisions should specify the treatment that is refused as well as the circumstances that should exist for the refusal to be effective.

Although such matters can be referred to in layman’s terms, it is important that advice is sought before the document is completed and that the patient discusses his views with his doctor and relatives and ensures that they and the local hospital have copies of the document.

An Advance Decision cannot apply unless it is valid and applicable. The MCA Code of Practice gives guidance on determining validity and applicability. It states that to be valid the Decision must be in writing, signed and appropriately witnessed and contain a statement to the effect that the patient knows that his life may be at risk because of the refusal. It is also important that the Decision is reviewed regularly as it can be withdrawn at any time and such withdrawal does not need to be in writing.

Many hospitals and health authorities have a policy on Advance Decisions and

the responsible clinician is expected to make reasonable efforts to determine the existence of an Advance Decision. Where one exists, that person is required to ensure that it is valid and is clinically relevant to the patient’s condition. This may involve enquiries concerning the patient’s capacity at the time when the document was signed and enquiries to establish that it has not been revoked either intentionally or by inconsistent behaviour on the part of the patient.

If an Advance Decision refusing life sustaining treatment was made before the 1 October 2007, when the provisions of the MCA came into force, it should be reviewed to ensure that it meets the requirements of the Act. It is quite possible that the Advance Decision will not meet those requirements, in particular, it may not include a statement that it is to apply even if the patient’s life is at risk. The Advance Decision should be re-made if the original Decision does not meet the requirements of the Act. There are transitional arrangements for people who have made an Advance Decision before 1 October 2007 but who have since lost the

mental capacity to re-make that decision.

An Advance Decision cannot be made to ask for anything that is illegal such as euthanasia and it cannot demand care that the healthcare professionals consider inappropriate in the particular case.

Although the Advance Decision can refuse nourishment by artificial means, it cannot refuse the offer of food and drink by mouth or the use of measures designed solely to maintain the patient’s comfort such as the provision of pain relief, warmth or shelter and basic nursing care.

If treatment is provided by healthcare professionals contrary to wishes expressed in a valid Advance Decision those healthcare professionals may be guilty of the civil offence of battery or the criminal offence of assault. It is not an offence for healthcare professionals to follow the wishes expressed in an Advance Decision which is subsequently found to be invalid.

As the circumstances of the patient’s illness cannot always be anticipated and specific treatment identified when the

Advance Decision is made, it may be more appropriate for a Health & Welfare Lasting Power of Attorney to be completed. These Healthcare Proxys were also given legal effect by the MCA and allow a person to appoint one or more Attorneys to act in his best interests and make personal welfare and healthcare decisions on his behalf if he becomes mentally incapable of making such decisions. There is a specific part in the Lasting Power of Attorney whereby the Donor can give the Attorneys the power to make decisions on his behalf concerning life sustaining treatment. If the Donor trusts the Attorneys to act in his best interests and the Attorneys will not be overly worried with the authority placed on them, this can prove a more flexible option than an Advance Decision as it allows the Attorneys to react to changing circumstances in the Donor’s health and in the treatments available.

If you would like to discuss the options in more detail please contact Carol Lockett at Jackaman Smith & Mulley on 01379 643555 or by email to carol.lockett@jsm.co.uk.

Dispatch May 2011 11

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DISS News

News From Diss Community Farm 10th April 2011 - it was a glorious afternoon! Spring sunshine, homemade cream teas, children gambolling happily on the lawn, it wasn’t all cakes and fun though, we did manage to get down to some actual Farm business too.

Perhaps most significantly, the constitution was voted in and the committee members appointed to the roles of Chair, Secretary and Treasurer. As a result, the financial side of the project could spring into action and the first membership fees were taken.

Gabbi Reid the grower for the Veg Pilot project reported on how things are progressing at the site in Winfarthing.

The 10 x 1000m area has been enclosed using donated 2nd hand chicken wire to keep the bunnies at bay and seeds have now been sown. On the 16th April we erected a shed that had been kindly donated. Further materials are needed though, guttering, a water butt, bamboo canes for bean poles (about 500 in total!), chicken wire, blue water pipe, (Steward Recycling have kindly donated some already), and use of a trailer to transport a half tonne tractor to the veg plot in Winfarthing.

Gabbi works on the plot at Winfarthing every Monday, she plans to draw up a list of jobs which need to be done and post them on the website every Friday so everyone can see what needs to be done the following Monday and turn up to help.

local animal feed manufacturer. Electric fencing and a metal feed storage shed have also been kindly donated. We also plan to have some geese, not only to be a deterrent to intruders but hopefully to raise goslings for Christmas.

Whilst we’re enjoying getting really involved in the details of the pilot projects we are aware that we need to continue with plans to find Diss Community Farm a permanent home once the pilot projects come to an end.

Gabbi also emphasised that the nature of a pilot project is experimental; at this stage there are no guarantees on the size of the crop that will be available for the veg shares. The pilot will give us a more accurate idea of how much veg we can hope to get from a given size of land.

She also thanked David and Yvonne Mitchell for the loan of the land, providing water and toilets!

Everyone who signs up for a meat share will be very welcome to come and work with the pigs, we are hoping to set up an on-line diary system where people can sign up for feeding times and generally caring for the pigs. We haven’t decided on the breed yet but we may choose a commercial pig as they’re fast growing which would work well with a pilot scheme. It’s hoped that we’ll get the pigs at the beginning of June so the meat will be available roughly at the beginning of December. We would like to organise a sausage making day at some point where members will be able to work with a butcher and use their own pork to make their own sausage recipes.

It was a busy and informative day. For anyone who couldn’t make it to the meeting but still wants to sign up for a supportive membership or a veg or meat share, all the necessary forms and details are available on the website: www.dissfoodcommunity.wordpress.com email: disscommunityfarm@yahoo.co.uk

Leeanne Eaton updated everyone on plans for the Livestock Project. We have secured 2.5 acres of woodland behind Tesco, this will give the pigs a nice shaded area where they can enjoy a natural lifestyle, rooting among the trees etc. We have been amazed at the generosity of people in the community and were thrilled when we were offered some pig feed from BOCM Pauls, our

Gary Alexander reported on plans for the Local Food Hub, a survey was handed out to find out what produce consumers would want from a local food hub. He also confirmed that small growers such as allotment holders will be able to contribute their surplus produce to the Hub. We would be pleased to have further input from local food producers so that the food hub can develop in a way that works for them.

Plus copies of our fundraising recipe booklet ‘A Taste of Spring’ are also still available for purchase, email: carden@live.co.uk Contact Details: Angela Lamb 01379 641878 / Mob:07599 527776.

Photography by Sarah Bush.

Diss W.I. April Meeting.

For our April meeting members were treated to a visit from Joanne Allen, an image consultant from “Colour me Beautiful”. Joanne concentrated on colour analysis and explained in detail how as individuals we could look and feel our best by choosing the right colours to wear. Finally with the help of several volunteers she demonstrated with lots of colourful scarves how this can be achieved. A very pleasant evening and lots of ideas to help us on future shopping trips.

We look forward again to taking part in the Diss Carnival Procession on 19th June and plans for our entry are now in

12 Dispatch May 2011

progress. In July a trip to the Fairhaven Woodland and Water Gardens is being arranged.

We closed the evening with a report by our Secretary on the Norfolk Federation AGM in Norwich which several members attended and all agreed it was a very interesting and enjoyable day.

Meetings are held at Diss Methodist Church Hall on the first Tuesday of each month starting at 7.30 p.m.

New members and visitors are very welcome to join us.

News from across your region

Diss Park Radio

Hoxne Phoenix Group

Park Radio returns to the airwaves of Diss and the surrounding area from 6am on Monday May 9th for a further 28 day broadcast.

A crowded April meeting of members and visitors heard Mr Hadrian Jeffs give a talk entitled “Pigs Might Fly”. This turned out to be the history of the airship, originally “floated” in 1900 in a non-rigid version of this extraordinary machine.

After a highly successful month on-air which ended on Christmas Day last year a further month is now being planned with many local businesses having already signed up to support this exciting community radio project.

Programmes will again be heard on 87.7FM and on-line at www.parkradio.co.uk Becky Jago from ITV Anglia will be officially opening the station and be a guest on the “Lunch at the Market Place” programme from 10am Monday 9th May. In broad terms the week on Park will look like this ;Weekdays 6am - 7am 7am - 10am 10am - 1pm 1pm - 4pm 4pm - 7pm 7pm to 10pm

10pm - 12pm

Early Breakfast Show Park Breakfast Lunch at the Market Place The Afternoon Show Drivetime Specialist Music Shows - Rock/Country/Blues/ Youth/Local Bands/Soul The Late Show

Saturdays 7am - 10am 10am 1pm 1pm - 3pm 3pm - 6pm

6pm - 8pm 8pm - 11pm

Saturday Breakfast Seventies on Saturday Late Lunch Saturday Special - Sport & Music Party Grooves The Late Show

Sundays 7am - 10am 10 - 1pm 1pm - 4pm 4pm - 6pm 6pm - 8pm 8pm - 11pm

Sunday Breakfast Sunday Supergold Sunday Live Red Hot Country Sunday Night In The Late Show

All our programmes will contain news, features, guest interviews and campaigns that will encourage the listeners in Diss and the surrounding area to interact and get involved. We have many things up our sleeve to entertain and inform our Park Radio audience.

We have another extremely strong line up of on-air talent with some Presenters who will be familiar names to the residents of Diss.

There will also be many ways, yet again, for listeners to win with Park! To get in touch with PARK RADIO - either by: Email: studio@parkradio.co.uk Phone: 01379 21 00 00 Text: PARK to 82010 Or call in to our studios at 18a Market Place in Diss - just below Candies Shoes.

We look forward to meeting our listeners in person and hearing what they have to say - making it a May to remember with PARK RADIO on 87.7FM and online serving Diss and the surrounding area from May 9th from 6am.

During and between two World Wars it was variously developed by the Western powers, the Germans being the most successful with their passenger service between Europe and South America in the 30’s. With the development of a rigid structure and in spite of some horrendous accidents due to the flotation gas being hydrogen, the airship remained in service in one form or another until the late 60’s.

The development of the airship also sparked off the development of the parachute (unknown during the early part of the century except as a fairground stunt) - pioneered by an intrepid young lady, Dolly Shepherd.

Base Stations for Airships were set up in many parts of the country during hostilities, the most well-known local one being at Pulham where the old hangars were still to be seen until recently. Sadly the ambition to join up the “Empire” with a network of air services was never

realised - at least not with airships and the fate of these magnificent flying machines was sealed.

After refreshments, the notices included the date for the outing to Maldon which will be Tuesday June 7th.

A Fashion Show by Artichoke will be held in the hall on May 11th. All welcome.

Birthday posies were presented to Pat Green, Margaret Brawn and Sarah Hall.

The next meeting will be on May 12th when the talk will be on “Life Upon the Wicked Stage” by Mrs Joyce Kimber.

Further information from Mrs Weller on 01379 668291.

Be part of it! Thank you!

The Park Radio Team 87.7FM and Online.

REACH OVER 11,000 ATTLEBOROUGH & DISS HOMES AND BUSINESSES

CAN YOU AFFORD NOT TO ADVERTISE HERE? Dispatch May 2011 13

www.attleboroughonline.co.uk

Welcome to

attleborough

Attleborough Town Council Noticeboard Town Council Elections.

There will be no poll for the Town Council elections this year as the number of candidates was less than the number of seats available. Fourteen nominations were made by the statutory deadline (4th April) which means there is one remaining vacancy on the Town Council.

The first meeting of the newly elected Town Council will take place on Monday 16th May (7 p.m. at the Town Hall).

The following were duly elected as town councillors as result of an uncontested election.

Attleborough Community Car Scheme Volunteer drivers undertake a valuable role in helping the community attend medical and hospital appointments, doubly so in a rural area with limited public transport options.

Queens Ward JC Burton, GF Farrow, D Kissinger, RH Middleton, PK Neal, AJ Perkins, KS Pettitt, SC Schucroft and SJ Taylor.

Burgh/Haverscroft Ward VJ Dale, MR Godfrey, A Marchant, RJ Reynolds and JS Taylor.

14 Dispatch May 2011

Litter Bins The Town Council have recently replaced a number of damaged and sub-standard litter bins in the town centre.

The Attleborough Community Car Scheme (ACCS) needs more drivers to help facilitate this vital local service in which volunteers are reimbursed for

fuel costs. If you have some spare time and want to do something to serve your local community please contact either the ACCS co-ordinator, Stuart Shearer on 01953 452846, or the Town Clerk on 01953 456194.

Tourist Information Office New opening hours for the town’s Tourist Information Office take effect from 1st May to cover the summer season.

Monday 10.00 a.m. to 12.30 p.m.

Tuesday 9.30 a.m. to 1.30 p.m.

Wednesday 9.30 a.m. to 1.30 p.m.

Thursday 9.30 a.m. to 3.00 p.m.

Friday 9.30 a.m. to 12.30 p.m.

Saturday 9.30 a.m. to 11.30 a.m.

The Office is closed on Sundays and Public Holidays.

The TIC Office, which is located on the ground floor of the Town Hall, stocks a wide range to tourist leaflets and information both locally and further afield, also acts as a booking agent for Chenery Travel and takes bookings for the Community Car Scheme. The contact number is 01953 456930.

News from across your region

Attleborough Town Archives As a “history magpie” Cllr Barbara A. Waters, Attleborough’s Honorary Archivist, was supported by the Council in setting up the Archive in the Town Hall, this was officially opened by the Mayor, Cllr Mike Harper in 2001.

On behalf of the Town’s people Barbara collects anything and everything dealing with Attleborough and District in the way of records, documents, pictures, photographs, indentures, letters, receipts, books, pamphlets, funeral service sheets, maps, drawings, shopping lists and curiosities in print, from any period in the Town’s history – past or present.

It also holds details of the young men whose names are on the Attleborough and Besthorpe War Memorials for the 1914 – 1918 war, some family history, photographs, theatres of war and awards of these service men.

The Archive contains a considerable amount of information which is indexed and documented for east retrieval, it is open to the public on the second and fourth Wednesday of every month 9am-12noon, when an enthusiastic group of amateur historians share their knowledge of Attleborough’s history and delve into the treasures of the archives.

The Archive is expanding rapidly and is fast out growing the second floor room at the Town Hall, so the Council are looking at the possibility of extending the Archive into a purpose built office behind the Town Hall.

Attleborough Town Archives Town Hall Queens Square Attleborough, NR17 2DR Telephone: 01953 456549 Email: archive@attleboroughtc.co.uk

Girlguiding Wayland Girlguiding Wayland celebrated the Royal Wedding in style by using it as the theme for their craft show.

Now in its fifth year, the categories were changed from the usual Easter style to Wedding ones. Classes such as a handmade wedding invitation or card, a tiara or crown, decorated single tier wedding cake, decorated cupcakes and design a wedding dress captured the imagination of girls and adults across the district. An amazing 470 entries were received overall, dwarfing the previous years 320!

All the entries were judged by invited guests to award winners and highly commended stickers in each class and age range. (Some can be seen on the attached photos.)

After judging, the afternoon was open to the public to view the entries. There were games supervised by the Brownies plus a tombola, Easter Egg raffle and refreshments.

The afternoon was very busy with over £300 raised for district funds.

As custodian of the Town’s records Mrs Waters also gives talks to interested groups, young or old from schools, clubs and residential homes and she is delighted at the amount of extra material this produces to be safely kept in the Archive.

The Archive holds a great deal of information, so it could be the first port of call for any one wishing to trace their family history, also with the burial records held in the council office.

Dispatch May 2011 15

www.attleboroughonline.co.uk

ATTLEBOROUGH News

Load Of Old Squit Rotary Club Anyone walking past the Connaught Hall in Attleborough, Norfolk, during the evening of 9th of April would have heard much laughter spilling forth. gate money and raffle. Without doubt the Rotarians will repeat this event next year.

120 tickets were sold and the club would like to thank all those who contributed the raffle prizes.

Above: Danny Platton, Keith Skipper and Pat Nearney This was the occasion when the Attleborough Rotary club played hosts to “Three Parts Light”, a trio of entertainers specialising in Norfolk squit and humour.

The participants were the well-known writer and broadcaster Keith Skipper, folk singer Danny Platten and comedian Pat Neaney.

This event turned out to be not just one of the most entertaining evenings put on by the Rotary Club but also one of the most lucrative for local charities with £800 profit raised from the combined

16 Dispatch May 2011

The Rotary Club’s next event will be on the Friday evening 17th June 2011: a hog roast at the Peter Beales Rose Garden on London Road in Attleborough. This has now become an annual event to coincide with the roses in the 3 acre garden at their best.

Tickets for the hog roast will be £10 each. Do come along and support local charities, bring your friends!

Prince’s Trust ‘Team Programme’ For young people between 16-25 years old who are unemployed.

It’s free and will not affect Jobseeker’s Allowance, public transport, course travel costs will be paid.

What happens on the course: • Be part of a team of 15 young people for 12 weeks • An action-packed residential week • Take on fundraising activities of the teams choosing • Take on community projects of the teams choosing • Two/three weeks’ work experience • Career advice • Community ‘Team Challenge’ The TEAM Programme is a 12 week self development programme aimed at getting young people, aged between 16 -25 back into employment, education or training.

The course includes all of the activities listed above and will provide you with the skills and confidence to move onto the next stage in your career. Over the 12 weeks you will work towards a Certificate in Personal Development & Contributing to the Community and other qualifications such as First Aid and Health & Hygiene Certificates.

Your confidence will grow as you make new friends and take on exciting challenges so that at the end of 12 weeks you are better placed for your future.

This could be you so contact one of the Team Leaders and kickstart your adventure!

Team start dates & contact details: 16th May 2011 Kings Lynn: 07919 492245 23rd May 2011 Norwich: 07920 792232 31st May 2011 Thetford: 07861 705978 TBC North Walsham: 07917 351097 Each venue runs 3 teams per year so if these dates are not suitable please get in touch and we will advise you when the next courses will be running.

For further information visit our website: www.norfolkfireservice. gov.uk & follow the link for Youth Development.

News from across your region

Civil Service Retirement Fellowship The Attleborough Group of the CSRF meets at the Methodist Church Hall, London Road, Attleborough on the third Thursday of the month, from 10 am to 12 noon, for coffee and a varied programme of activities.

A Weekend Of Transformation Through Sound With Chris James 14th/15th May – 9.30am to 4.30pm.

At the next meeting on 19th May, Ian Banstead will tell us about the craft of wood turning, with examples of pieces produced by the artist.

Membership of the Group is open to all Civil Service, Post Office and BT pensioners and their partners and invited friends.

New members are always very welcome at any meeting, or full details of membership and arrangements made for future meetings and suggested outings for interested members can be obtained from the Secretary, Mrs. D. Parker, telephone number 01953 456958.

Kerry Butcher Accountancy Services Have you received any certificate of interest from your bank or building society? Or a P60 from your job or benefit?

When you received these you probably thought that there was something else that you need to keep in a “safe place”.

able to save you money on your tax bill at least equivalent to their fee and hopefully more.

If you are one of those people who received a notice to complete a tax return – then why not save some time and instead of filing those bits of paper away and then having to find them again, why not send them straight to your accountant and ask them to complete your tax return early?

I would like to try and do just that as I pride myself in doing a good job whilst trying to save you money. To help the first meeting with me is free so why not give me a call and see what I can offer this tax year. You might be surprised how much money you can save.

It really would be one less thing to do later and will help you sort out any tax credit claims plus you would know how much, if any tax you have to pay well in advance. No nasty surprises in January.

That has got to be a bonus!

Chris James teaches internationally about the healing power of sound, song, voice and medication. “Everyone is born with a beautiful voice”. Through discovering our natural voice, we learn to trust our creativity and intuition, speak our truth and be heard.

Joyfully explore your voice. Discover that everyone can naturally express with a voice that is beautiful, unique and a true expression of themselves. Deepen your connection between singing, listening, stillness and healing sound as you develop the quality of your natural voice.

Develop self-empowering listening and speaking skills.

Venue: Bunwell Village Hall, The Turnpike, Bunwell, Norfolk, NR16 1SN. Cost: £180 Everyone welcome, no experience of singing or music required.

Musicians, Singers, Healing Practitioners, Artists, Teachers, Carpenters… infact, everyone will be inspired. www.chrisjames.net.

The gentle inner resonance and strength that you develop will revolutionise your approach to singing and speaking.

Call 01953 457173 or email Kerry@kerry butcher.co.uk for that first free meeting or for any queries.

Maybe you fancy a change this year, it is said that a good accountant should be

Dispatch May 2011 17

www.attleboroughonline.co.uk

ATTLEBOROUGH News

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Once you have chosen the shops YOU want to follow, you’ll then receive all the latest offers from theses places. When you go shopping you can either have the offers text to your mobile phone or just print them off, it’s that easy.

This exciting new initiative is designed to support local businesses and help you get the best offers on local products, services and attractions near to you.

So if your business is a novice when it comes to the internet and computers, don’t worry we are here to help you, either face to face, on the phone or via e-mail. We may be an online company but we’re still a local company that has a passion to help local businesses promote themselves to their local customers.

We are launching in the market towns of Diss, Harleston, Attleborough and Wymondham in March and the website is designed to keep people in touch with their high street.

So show your support for your favourite shops by signing up to highstreethawk.co.uk.

If you own a business contact us today for a chat and get your FREE 2 month trial on (01379) 644430 or e-mail us at hello@highstreethawk.co.uk.

A capacity audience of members and friends of Attleborough Heritage Group filled St Mary’s Church on Saturday 26th March to be entertained by a delightful illustrated presentation by Cliff Amos and Roy Woods entitled “Attleborough Shops over the past 120 years”. A fast moving show, making use of the extensive photographic and documentary archive held by the Group, took the audience along the main commercial thoroughfares of the Town and giving a fascinating insight into premises as they were 120 years ago, how they appear now and the changes in appearance, use and ownership during this period.

The audience learned of the advent of town gas, mains electricity and piped water supplies to Attleborough and all within this very recent time frame. We discovered how many butchers’ shops there were in the town and the fact that beasts were bought from the cattle market in the town and slaughtered by the purchasing butcher. Given the number of butchers’ shops it is interesting that there were no shambles in the town. There were also a number of multi faceted shops

with very enterprising proprietors. Today’s supermarkets have nothing on those retailers who sold anything from hats, to groceries, to electrical goods all from the same premises. Some trades, such as harness makers, have disappeared from the scene.

The appearance of the town has changed – in the name of progress – during the 120 years of the exercise and street names have changed in some cases to commemorate a specific event. What still remain, though, are the narrow streets in the centre of the town nowadays choc-abloc with a different kind of horsepower from that which obtained 120 years ago.

For those who were unable to get tickets for this extremely popular event, there will be another showing on Saturday 21st May, again at St Mary’s Church Hall, which will incorporate new information and feed back from the sell-out audience in March.

Tickets available from the Heritage Centre, Soma House, tel 01953 455877 or e-mail attleboroughheritage@tiscali.co.uk.

Bible Society Verse and Thought for the Month.

“O Lord, you have examined my heart – you know everything about me” Psalm 139 verse 1.

In the recent Census, the government aimed to record many details about each one of us to facilitate future planning.

However, when it comes to our Maker, He keeps a continuous record of our lives. Does it matter? The Bible warns us:

18 Dispatch May 2011

one day, we must all give an account of our lives to God: our future with Him in eternity depends on it. The bad news?

None of us can reach God’s standard of perfection. The good news? Jesus lived a perfect life and, having defeated death, He stands ready to welcome all who turn from their sins. He offers you and me his pardon and power to live transformed lives.

News from across your region

Don’t Forget Your PJs For The Girls Night Out Don’t forget your PJs – that is the message being sent out by St Nicholas Hospice Care as it launches what it hopes will be its biggest and best ever women’s only fundraising event.

In their haste to sign up for the third annual Girls Night Out moonlit walk, this sassy group of women forgot one essential – their nightwear! But hopefully come the big night itself they will be clad in their pyjamas and dressing gowns, ready to go.

Girls Night Out will see hundreds of pyjama-clad women departing Angel Hill on 17th September, before walking an 11.2-mile route around the streets of Bury. And this year, a new six-mile route is being introduced to ensure everyone can take part.

“September may seem a long way off, but if you already know you want to take part in the Girls Night Out, why not sign up now and get started with raising sponsorship money?”

For more information, contact Jenny on 01284 715583, email jenny. baskett@stnh.org.uk or go to www.stnicholashospicecare.org.uk.

In 2010, 550 women took part in the Girls Night Out raising nearly £90,000 for the Hospice, making it the most successful fundraising event in the charity’s history.

But this year it is hoped to smash that total, so more women are encouraged to get on board and sign up. Registration opened on Friday, 8th April.

Jenny Baskett, Events and Challenges Fundraiser, said: “As well as the Girls Night Out being a great way to support your local Hospice, there is a tremendous sense of fun and camaraderie on the walk.

“We hope those who took part last year will invite their friends, family and work colleagues along this year,” said Jenny.

“Women who took part last year will remember the eye-catching flashing bunny ears they wore – but this year we have something even more ‘girly’ in store.

“As well as raising great sums of money for the Hospice, the aim of the Girls Night Out is to have fun – which means all women, of any age or ability, can take part.”

Dispatch May 2011 19

www.attleboroughonline.co.uk

ATTLEBOROUGH News

Anglia Computer Solutions Has branches in Swaffham, Downham Market and Wymondham. At Anglia Computer Solutions we cover everything and anything computer related.

NEW @ Anglia Computer Solutions Ltd - After many years working with Sage products we are now proud to announce we are a Sage Business Partner. This gives us the best pricing on Sage products & upgrades. We can now offer Sage Accounts, Payrol, & ACT etc, together with installation and training, Contact us for a FREE Quote.

connector and screen replacements. If it’s a problem which cannot be fixed in store, or it’s just too inconvenient to bring in – then we will come to you. Our callouts are £39.99 which includes travelling and labour. We cover both homes and businesses whether it’s setting up wireless broadband for personal use or twenty computers in an office.

FREE DATA TRANSFER FROM YOUR OLD PC / LAPTOP TO NEW!!

We keep in a wide range of Ink cartridges, cables, hardware components and peripherals in stock all ready to go, and if we don’t have what you need then they can often be ordered for the next day.

Attleborough Committee Celebrates 100 Years Of Macmillan Starting at 10am on May 15th Connaught Hall, Attleborough.

Craft stall, Car Boot (£5 per pitch), Children’s Rides, Hog Roast, Ice Cream, Art Exhibition, Vintage Tractors, Lotus Cars, Military Vehicles and much more.

We would also like to thank everybody who supported the Spring Fair which raised £728 for Macmillan Cancer Support.

Come along and celebrate with us!

Unfortunately computers do go down, whether it’s due to viruses and spyware, old age or things like electrical storms. We are here to help! Often these kinds of problems can be solved quickly, either by replacing key components or solving any software problems - its always recommended to get a quote for a repair before just going out and buying a completely new unit. Laptops are becoming increasingly popular and although they are a bit more of a challenge to repair we cover all aspects of them. Whether the unit won’t turn on, right through to keyboard, power

20 Dispatch May 2011

More and more people are now using internet and phone to make contact rather than face to face. This is why we have added telecoms to our list of services. We can now provide businesses with a much cheaper alternative to the standard BT systems and these have many more functions including, recording of calls, call divert, call queuing, call logging and the list goes on. Please phone us for a free no obligation quote to discuss your needs.

For further information on Car Boot pitches please contact Carol 01953 606357.

She Fashion Show Join us on Friday 20th May 2011 at Attleborough Town Hall, 7pm arrival for 7.30pm start.

Come along and view our latest range, bar and raffle also available and raise funds Macmillan Cancer Support.

Tickets £5 available from She Fashion or by calling Ronnie 01953 452948, Sandra 01953 453361 or Vera 01953 452080.

News from across your region

Broadland Council Training How To Be Healthy Services (BCTS) Is Your Local Training Provider

A helpful thought from Malcolm Ryan, Pastor of Attleborough Baptist Church.

Broadland Council Training Services (BCTS) is a successful, specialist training provider that delivers 3 different types of training programmes to people of all ages and abilities in Norfolk and the Eastern Region.

Foundation Training for young people who attained few qualifications at school, Mainstream Training delivering NVQ’s and other qualifications mainly through Government approved Apprenticeship Programmes and Business Training.

The Business Training (there are some lifestyle courses as well) are delivered from our training rooms at the Broadland District Council offices which is located in Thorpe St Andrew, Norwich. There is free car parking on site and also we are just a 15 minute walk from the train station.

We offer over 70 different courses, which are competitively priced and delivered by independent, skilled, practical and knowledgeable tutors, who use a variety of training methods including workshops and one to one support.

To find out more about the courses we run please either visit www.broadland.gov.uk/traingcourses e-mail business@broadland.gov.uk or call 0800 389 1113.

As you take a look in the mirror, you may be saying, “I need to shape up. I need to lose some weight by eating less fattening foods and getting more exercise.” On the other hand, you may be someone who wants everything in life to be easy. And do you know something? People like that are not only averse to shaping up, they don’t like it when trouble comes their way and times are hard. Yet the Bible tells us that if we respond with the right attitude when tough times come our way, our faith becomes stronger and healthier.

inspiring devotional articles and audio messages.

Next Sunday you are warmly invited to come along to Attleborough Baptist Church and join with us in worshipping the God who promises to be with you and help you through the challenges and disappointments of life.

So when a small problem comes our way, we should trust God to handle it. Then when a slightly bigger problem comes along, we will trust him to handle that as well. If we keep on doing this, we are going to realise that there is no problem too big for God to handle. When we get to that point in our lives, we will have a strong and healthy faith! Then when we look in the mirror we will see a smile!

For more help to stay spiritually healthy, please visit my website at www.wordsforlife.org, where you will find

Dispatch May 2011 21

www.DispatchMagazine.co.uk

Focus ON

Harleston & EYE

Harleston Town Council Harleston Jobs Club Cathy Spurgin From Harleston Information Plus, Scoops Top Prize.

Every Wednesday between 10am – 12pm, everyone welcome.

Harleston Information Plus is celebrating as one of their volunteers, Cathy Spurgin, was announced winner of Counter Skills: Harleston 2011, a competition to find the most skilled retail and service employee in the town. Cathy beat 16 other hopefuls to win the overall prize and a cheque for £1,000.

I am pleased to announce that we have helped over 200 jobseekers at the Harleston Jobs Club since we started back in June 2009. Due to the popularity of the club we have decided to have our own Facebook page where we can post jobs and details of upcoming events.

Counter Skills measures the talents of people working in shops and services as they participate in six challenges over a week-long period. Amongst other things competitors were required to serve a mystery shopper to demonstrate their customer service ability and demonstrate one of their favourite products or services to a Counter Skills Judge. Margot Harbour, Redenhall with Harleston Town Clerk, said: “The standard of entries in this competition

showed just how vibrant the shops and services are in Harleston. If this is what visitors experience when they come to town, then I am confident they will keep coming back for that personal touch.”

Delivered by Retail Revival Ltd, Counter Skills in Harleston was the final part of the Local Heroes programme which is an initiative funded by the Lottery and the Rural Development Programme (England).

The Local Heroes Programme is designed to encourage people, working and living in Harleston, to increase their knowledge and passion for the town and the Waveney Valley, in order to promote it to others.

The prizes were presented by Pat Holtom, Chair of the Waveney Valley LAG and Robin Twigge, owner of the Swan Hotel and donor of the prize money. All competitors each received a case of beer kindly donated

by The Grain Brewery.

I would like to thank everyone who attended the Jobs Fair at the end of March. We saw over 30 jobseekers all interested in a career in care and feedback that we received was excellent with people commenting that it was “very interesting” with “a super range of information”. For those of you who couldn’t attend - we gathered lots of literature from the stalls to hold at the Jobs Club, so feel free to pop in and we can give you some more information. Sarah Johnston from the Jobcentre recently attended the Jobs Club to give a talk about the changes to tax credits which happened on 6th April 2011. The changes included

the amount of income you can have before your tax credits are affected, the hours you can work if you’re 60 or over and some payments being reduced or stopped.

Jobs Club Monthly Statistics • Average weekly attendance of 12 members • 10 new members • 4 members received CV assistance • 6 members found employment If you would like more information about the Jobs Club, then please contact Lucy Hurdley at the Information Centre.

Tel: 01379 851920 or email jobsclub@harleston-norfolk.org.uk Employers can advertise their vacancy for FREE at the Jobs Club Please contact Lucy with details of your vacancy.

News From Harleston Information Plus The Fruity Dating Agency Is Now Officially Open No, not the traditional type of dating agency!

The register links Harleston gardeners who have surplus fruit and vegetables with local people who can use them. If you have surplus bedding plants, fruit or vegetables to give away or would like to try vegetables fresh from the garden but only have a window box, call in at the centre or phone

22 Dispatch May 2011

851917 to check the ‘dating register’. The first produce to be advertised through the scheme was rhubarb.

Carers’ Information Afternoon Harleston Information Plus is holding a carers information afternoon at the Swan hotel, Harleston. The event is for people who offer unpaid support to someone who has a long term illness or disability.

Norwich and District Carers Forum Support Worker, Christine Butler and Juliet Bonner, from Suffolk Family Carers, will be available to offer information and advice.

The afternoon is on Tuesday 11th May between 2-4pm. For further information please call Julie Helsby, Community Support Manager at Harleston Information Plus: 01379 851920.

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Messages charged at your normal operator rate for sending plus £1.00 per entry Text competition is monitored on behalf of Dispatch Magazine by: BCH, PO Box 807, Manchester, M60 2XT. Helpline 08444123021. iPhone 4 graphic used for illustrative purposes only, and not a part of the competition.

Dispatch May 2011 23

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Out & About A Visit To Bressingham... The Dragon Quest Steam And Gardens Is A Great Way To Spend All Day! You have to go a long way to beat Bressingham Steam and Gardens for a family day out. For here is where world renowned horticulturist Alan Bloom combined his passion for plants and gardens with his love of steam to create a truly unique experience for all the family.

Bressingham celebrates 50 years of Alan Bloom’s eclectic collection of all things steam. Come and see his collection of Road, Rail and Stationary locomotives both in steam and those preserved in his Museum.

Whether you choose to explore one of Europe’s leading steam collections, take a ride on Bressingham’s famous Victorian Gallopers, journey on the steam railways, wander through 17

acres of beautiful gardens with 8,000 plant varieties or visit the official “Dads Army” exhibition, you will find something for everyone when you arrive at Bressingham!

With lots of special days planned in the summer the best place for information is our web site bressingham.co.uk, complete with live web cam views of the Nursery line and Gallopers, you can enter your name and address for a chance to win a family day out too.

Bring your own picnic and take a break in the gardens, or choose from the café or restaurant within Blooms Centre and you really can make the fun last all day!

A fabulous summer treasure hunt w ill be taking place in the Upper Waveney Valley between May and September to raise money for a new stained glass window in Wortham’s 12th century church.

Centred on a 7 mile radius of the village of Wortham, questers w ill be tracking down clues and hunting dragons to win a wonderful silver dragon prize.

The Grand Launch is being held on Saturday May 21st from 1pm-5pm at Wortham St Mary’s Church and there will be fun and entertainment for the whole family on the day as w ell as the opportunity to enter the Quest.

A beautifully illustrated book of clues provides all you need to hunt for the treasure - a gorgeous hallmarked silver dragon pendant worth £500 and a

pair of silver dragon cufflinks.

These unique pieces were specially commissioned for the Quest and have been designed and made by Sue Heaser.

So come and join the fun in Wortham Church on the 21st May. Free admission for all!

• The Dragonmaster entertains and explains at 2pm • Local Arts and Crafts on Sale • See the silver dragon first prize • Buy your entrance pack for the Quest • Music and songs • Tea and Homemade Cakes • Fun for all the Family !

Organised by Friends of Wortham Church.

Quest Entry Packs will also be available at Wortham Post Office Stores from the 21st May. For Further information and high resolution photos please contact: Sue Coales: Tel: 01379 898479 email: suecoales@live.co.uk Where are the Dragons?

24 Dispatch May 2011

News from across your region

Weeting Steam Engine Rally & Country Show

Chenery Travel Has A New Look!

If you are looking for a fascinating and nostalgic family day out for the whole family, look no further than the Weeting Steam Engine Rally and Country Show.

Don’t worry, you will still be able to recognise the distinctive blue Chenery coaches as they pass through the city, towns and villages en-route to our extensive range of excursion destinations.

many other bits to keep the whole family entertained.

Taking place from Friday 15th - Sunday 17th July at Fengate Farm on the Norfolk/Suffolk border.

There are parades of steam traction engines and steam lorries, vintage tractors and fire engines, plus working steam-powered farmyard machines, a full-sized steam train on rails, a model steam train (which takes passengers round a track) and small steam models.

There are static displays of vintage cars, motorbikes and military vehicles.

The Snakewood Dog Agility Team will give regular demonstrations. Rainbow Riding School will also be joining Snakewood Dog Agility Team this year in the main ring on Sunday for a Dog and Horse combined event. There will also be a craft marquee and many trade stands.

To enable visitors to see all the attractions on the 170 acre showground, transport is provided, free of charge, in the form of specially built trailers, towed by tractors.

Car parking is free and there is a 12 acre caravan and camping site for those who wish to stay for the whole weekend.

For further information please contact Wendy Young on 01842 810317. Alternatively visit www.weetingrally.co.uk.

... but as the fleet is updated you may spot that we have given ourselves a modern makeover! A strong and colourful logo reflects our commitment to drive the business forward whilst continuing to offer our customers the quality of service they have come to expect of Chenery Travel over the past 60 years and more.

Our ethos is further supported and re-enforced by our strapline ‘The Confident Choice’ and the company name has been projected into the 21st Century too... with a contemporary font that sits ideally alongside the up-to-date branding of our concert ticket and travel business, CheneryLive.

had the decorators in there too... and the fresh new colour scheme acts as a perfect backdrop to highlight the superb range of London shows, concerts and day trips on sale throughout the year.

For those who prefer to stay local, then all you have to do to book yourself on a Chenery day out is to pop in to your Tourist Information Office. We are delighted that this service is now available to the local community in Attleborough, Diss, Thetford and Wymondham.

Pay us a visit on Castle Meadow in Norwich and you will see that we have

There are also old time fairground rides as well as new rides, bouncy castles, and

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www.DispatchMagazine.co.uk

Homes & Gardens Wymondham Garden Centre Breckland Flower Hooray for May! Is May going to be as beautiful a month as April? Keep your fingers crossed! I wish I could control the weather, warm sunny days and light showers at night, what more could a gardener want!

May is a great month for the gardener, towards the end of the month it should be ‘safe’ to hang out summer hanging baskets and fill your beds and borders with brightly coloured bedding plants.

If you have already planted out and are concerned about the cold you can always cover your plants at night with some frost protection fleece or similar.

There are plants for every area of your garden, even those difficult shady areas.

If you are struggling to find the right plant come and see us at the garden centre, we are always happy to help.

26 Dispatch May 2011

Plants for hot, dry spots: • Artemisia ‘Powis Castle’ perennial • Cistus, all varieties shrub • Convolvulus Cneorum shrub • Euphorbia perennial • Elysium ‘Bowles Mauve’ perennial Plants for dry shade: • Aucuba Japonica shrub • Bergenia Cordifolia perennial • Euonymus Fortunei ‘Emeral and Gold’ shrub • Kerria Japonica shrub Plants looking good during May are Convolvulus Cneorum, Ceanothus, Rhododendrons, Aquilegias, Dicentra, Clematis Montanas and Laburnums.

Come and see us soon and bring the sunshine with you!

And Garden Club Helen Bird visited the club for its April meeting and she ably demonstrated her ‘Passion for Flowers’ using lovely spring colours of yellows and reds together with some unusual containers.

The competition ‘Nostalgia - a tribute to the founder of modern-day flower arranging Julia Clements using a pin holder - was won by Shirley Penfold (Old Hands) and Janet Skidmore (New Hands). The best exhibit award also went to Shirley Penfold.

Members decorated ‘Hats For Easter’ for the table show which was won by Margaret Smith whose creation included woven willow and spring flowers.

May meeting will be held at Old Buckenham Village Hall of Thursday 12th May 2pm when ‘Feel the Passion’ will be

the title of Ann Colny’s demonstration.

The competition - a continental design - ‘Maytime’ and the table show a stem of blossom.

Visitors are always welcome to our meetings. Further information from Pat 001953 457305 or Sally 01953 788712.

News from across your region

A Garden To Uplift The Soul Supreme’s New It is wonderful to have a garden that looks picture perfect, however it often appeals to our gift of sight more than our other senses. Scientific studies show that we feel more revived and invigorated when all our senses are stimulated and our garden is the ideal environment in which to do this.

Whilst planting choices will provide beautiful fragrance, sound, colour and texture, the fundamental hard-landscaping features should not be forgotten as these form the main static structure of the garden. Consider the following: • The sound of water gently trickling over time-worn pebbles • The scent of fresh pine bark nuggets retaining moisture at soil level • The feel of warm natural stone paving under foot continuing onto a cool dewkissed lawn • The taste of a good Chardonnay as you relax in your beautiful, sense awakening garden At Georgina Read Design & Landscaping we specialise in transforming gardens and our flexible approach means we can always meet your requirements for all aspects of landscaping. As we are also the driving force behind Paving Superstore (www.pavingsuperstore.co.uk) and Anglian Garden & Building Supplies

(www.gardenandbuilding.co.uk), both selling huge volumes of hard landscaping materials across the UK, including paving from Marshalls, Bradstone, Brett, Stoneflair, Stonemarket, Pavestone, Global Stone, Strata and Natural Paving, decorative stone, sheds, summerhouses, log cabins, garden features, hot tubs, pergolas, fencing, water features and lots more, you can be sure all our materials are at online prices, offering great savings!

So why not let our award-winning, fully qualified landscaping professionals encompass your needs by creating a garden to match your lifestyle - whether you prefer modern and contemporary or timeless and traditional, we can fulfil your requirements.

Contact us today on 01953 850802 to discuss your Landscaping requirements See examples of our work at: www.georginaread.co.uk

Range Now In Stock Supreme Bathrooms has just taken stock of their new range of quality vanity units.

All available in a high gloss white finish or 3 different wood effects there is something that suits everyone’s space within their very own bathroom. All units come with a ceramic slab top washbasin which makes cleaning easy and maintenance free.

With sizes starting at 400mm for the small cloakroom unit and up to the large 1000mm bathroom unit you are spoilt for choice. Along with the floor standing units our new brochure shows a wall hung version as well. To complement these new vanity units we can also supply a full range of mirrors and cupboards.This can also be supplied with a built in cornice which features lights and a shaver point within.

With prices starting from £175 for the 400mm unit and £445 inc vat for the 1000mm vanity unit, our prices are genuine but very competitive.

Why not visit us now to view the full range and take away our free Supreme Bathrooms catalogue which has over 400 pages of the latest bathrooms around or visit us at www.supremebathroomcentre.co.uk

All our washbasins, baths and toilets are all made in European White which means all items can be mixed but most importantly matched for your new supreme bathroom.

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www.DispatchMagazine.co.uk

Homes & Gardens Home Decorating Ideas Myhills Pet & Garden If you’re looking for a few affordable home interior decorating ideas to freshen up a room over a weekend, try these tips: Rearrange The Furniture - Pull your furniture away from the walls. Try positioning it at intriguing angles. For example, a sofa arranged diagonally across a narrow living room will make the room look wider.

Paint A Wall - Paint one wall your favourite colour and make it the focal point. Hang interesting art on that wall and move a nice piece of furniture there.

it at an angle beneath your coffee table.

Hang Pictures or Mirror - Hang pictures that reflect your personality. Try frames that are more ornate. When hanging a mirror, try and position it so that it reflects and nice view or an interesting architectural element.

Add Decorative Pillows - The good news about decorative pillows is that they are an easy way to add textures and patterns to a Bring In Plants - Greenery always adds a room. Still better, they can be changed to breath of fresh air to a room. If you don’t have jazz up a sofa or chair before your room is a green thumb, try silk plants and trees. The ready for a major makeover. quality has gotten so good that its hard to distinguish them from the real thing.

Replace Lamps - Lamps are probably the one thing in your home that will give Lay An Area Rug - An area rug is a others a clue that your room is outdated. wonderful way of defining a conversation Seek out new and fresh lamps that make a area. Try one that complements the room. Lay statement.

28 Dispatch May 2011

Are Norfolk’s oldest & largest chain of Pet & Garden stores.

Having been established since 1937 and with 6 shops throughout central Norfolk, they pride themselves on being large enough to compete on price but small enough to care for their customers. All the shops carry a wide range of stock and for any unusual item the friendly staff will always try to obtain it for you.

There are regular special offers for pet owners and all shops stock a range of “Myhill’s” dog and cat foods that all offer exceptional value for money. They also run a regular “Top 100 Garden Offers” throughout the main gardening season.

All stores offer a fantastic range of pet foods and accessories and large garden line range for the keen gardener. The Dereham branch offers a huge fishing tackle department which is in a newly built extension where

they cater for coarse, sea and game anglers with an excellent selection of tackle, clothing, rods, reels and fresh baits. You name it and Myhills probably have it. They also have a first floor showroom for larger items such as bivvies, luggage, chairs and trollies.

All of the Myhills Pet & Garden shops (except Watton) also have a range of small animals for sale.

Myhills also run a local delivery service 1 day per week at each shop when they will be pleased to deliver to you – please contact your local branch or visit www. myhillspetandgarden.co.uk for more information on the service.

So for all your pet and garden needs visit your local Myhills Pet & Garden Store today.

News from across your region

Can’t Afford To Move, How About Updating?

Early 2010 we introduced our new premises at Eleven Mile Lane, Suton, Wymondham where we have put our building and plumbing ranges under one roof.

To further strengthen our growing business we now have an exciting Kitchen and Bathroom Showroom demonstrating up to date Kitchens and Sanitary ware.

We offer quality kitchens at competitive prices with a free design service and are happy to supply only or offer supply and fit including all plumbing and building work including tiling.

We welcome both trade and retail customers and delivery is still free of

charge anywhere in South Norfolk, our excellent staff would be happy to assist you with all your building and house renovation requirements.

Unique are a local independent merchant which means we care about our service, customers and reputation all of which are key factors to our business.

Why not call us for a brochure on 01953 859895 or pay us a visit, we are open 8am – 5pm Monday to Friday and 8am – 12 on Saturdays.

Dispatch May 2011 29

www.DispatchMagazine.co.uk

Homes & Gardens Granite Transformations Granite Transformations, whose showroom is located in Stratton Strawless, is a family run business headed up by Malcolm Whitwood and his two sons Oliver and Thomas.

The company has been based in Stratton Strawless since 2005 and due to the success of the business, moved to larger premises with the new showroom in 2009. The company is leading the way in transforming the look and feel of your kitchen by offering a new and exciting alternative to replacing traditional worktops and surfaces.

The product, exclusive to Granite Transformations, bonds directly onto your existing work surfaces and is made from natural raw materials blended with high performance polymers to produce a beautiful, durable, scratch, stain and heat resistant surface that would grace any home. There are over 50 colours, designs and materials to choose from, including this seasons’ hottest trend

30 Dispatch May 2011

- recycled glass, which can be seen at the new showroom on Shortthorn Road, Stratton Strawless.

Malcolm explains “With the economic downturn still affecting people a totally new kitchen is beyond some households at present; however an affordable facelift is within many budgets. A new worktop, perhaps new doors or handles and a coat of paint is all it takes” Maybe the thought of a prolonged disruption with workmen in and out of your home for days on end puts you off the idea of a face lift, but with Granite Transformations you don’t have that, as Justin Peat, sales and marketing, explains- “We come to your home and measure up, discuss the finish you want

and any appliances you may require, we then make a life size template of the surface to cover. Then that’s the last you see of us until we come back with the readymade worktops which we generally fit in just one day. No demolition, no waste to get rid of and no mess with the minimum of disruption to the household.”

There is a bonus too because now Granite Transformations offers a range of replacement doors, sinks and appliances to make a complete transformation even easier and with over 800 combinations possible our range should meet everyone’s taste in decor.

As Justin says “Take a tired old worktop showing signs of age then overlay it with a smooth, youthful and highly desirable

Granite Transformations surface, and you’ll be amazed at how new your kitchen looks”

News from across your region

Welcome To Simply Bespoke...

Incorporating Leons’ Pine Care.

Simply Bespoke are a small family business based in Attleborough, Norfolk, producing solid wood furniture and kitchens in soft and hardwoods. The Finest Quality Handmade Pine Furniture, made to measure, stained, waxed or painted. Oak and other hardwoods also available.

They have recently opened their new showroom at 15b Market Hill, Diss.

The majority of their work is pine furniture, made to your requirements, with size and finish to suit your needs. They offer a colour matching service where they can use a sample of an existing piece of your furniture, and get a colour very close to match it, bearing in mind age and material.

They offer the same service in hardwoods, including oak and beech, made using European, American or English timber.

A complete kitchen service is available from design to fitting, with everything available including appliances and

worktops in laminate wood or granite.

They also offer a makeover service replacing door and drawer fronts, worktops, appliances or whatever your budget suits.

We also stock a good range of oak furniture with lots more available from our extensive brochure ranges. We offer a wide choice of design including farmhouse, shaker and beaded styles available in wax and painted finishes. We offer a full built in service for all of our furniture to maximise space and even accommodate the older properties uneven walls and floors.

Visit them at the new showroom now open at 15b market Hill, Diss (next to Barclays). Opening times 10am – 4pm Saturday Workshop opening times; Mon – Fri 10am – 6pm For further information call Leon on 0845 0521557 or visit their website www.simplybespoke.biz.

J & S Homeworks Garden patios & decking have never been more popular & are a great way to expand your living area into the garden. Installing a deck or patio in your garden can be as rejuvenating to your house as building a new room.

Similarly making improvements to your garden by laying new turf or revamping an existing patio area can open up your home, making it feel substantially larger, more social & accommodating.

Solid structures give a garden a sense of both practicality and permanence.

Whether you choose a deck or a patio depends on your site & style. A deck is ideal if your yard is sloped or has poor drainage; it provides a solid, level surface above uneven or soggy soil. A patio, in contrast, requires a level site for the cement, stone or paving slabs.

Edge your patio with brick, stone, metal or plastic. Whichever option you choose, use it elsewhere in the garden to link the areas together. With decking, balustrades can be added for safety & visual effect.

Considerations to take into account when deciding whether to opt for a patio or decking & where to position it in your garden are; Review the advantages & disadvantages of placing your deck or patio in one area or another.

Consider your climate, how it affects your use of the outdoors & what seasons you spend time outside.

Think of how you like to entertain & for how many people. Keep your cooking style in mind, so that an often used BBQ isn’t inconveniently placed. Consider pet requirements such as the need to keep a dog confined. Keep this list on hand as you make your decisions on design & material choices.

For more information or a free no obligation quote please contact Jason of J & S Homeworks to transform your garden.

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www.DispatchMagazine.co.uk

Homes & Gardens Perfect Flowers For Summer Gardens If like many green thumbed garden lovers you are eagerly awaiting summer and the prospect of getting outside, you’ll be looking forward to enjoying your summer garden.

Sadly by mid summer when the real heat arrives, most flower gardens look past their best. So how can you keep your garden looking fresh and vibrant throughout the summer months? Simple, by planting flowers that thrive in the heat and last long into late summer.

Ideally you’ll want to choose your summer plants well in advance of the warm weather in order for them to begin growing in the garden. Planting your flowers during the spring will allow them to reach full bloom during the summer.

So what flowers should you be planting?

Annuals As the name suggests, annuals will only last for one season and will need

32 Dispatch May 2011

to be replace thereafter, for this reason they are relatively inexpensive to buy.

Annual are a good choice for those who are unsure of their desired effect or those who like to experiment each year.

There are many annuals that perform well during the hot summer months, including; Marigolds, Tithonia, Salvia, Cosmos and Sunflowers.

Perennials Unlike annuals, perennials are slightly more expensive but much more robust and usually last between 3-5 years, regenerating each season. Perennials that thrive off the hot weather include; Tradescantia, Cranesbills and Achillea.

These flowers are all early bloomers and if cut back early enough you can expect to see them re-bloom later in

the season. More examples of summer Perennials include; Daylilies, Monarda, Purple Coneflower Gaillardia and Perovskia.

you get from your tropical plants, you can always bring them indoors during the winter and enjoy them again next summer.

Flowering Shrubs Flowering shrubs can be a pleasant addition to a colourful summer garden.

Popular flowering shrubs include; Butterfly Bushes, Rose of Sharon and Repeat Blooming Roses.

Take a trip to your local garden centre and have a look around. Read the information on various flowers to learn about the period during which they usually bloom and how long they last.

Tropical Plants Add a hint of the exotic to your summer garden with tropical plants which love to soak up the sun. Fantastic examples of tropical plants that perform during the summer include; Hibiscuc, Datura, Dipladenia and Brugmansia.

Furthermore, if you like the results that

If you’re new to gardening and aren’t too sure what to buy, ask one of the garden centre workers, they’ll be more than happy to offer help and advice.

Health, beauty & wellbeing Camberwell Dental Practice

Self Tanning Preparation

Camberwell Dental Practice - serving the community since 1987.

1. Start preparing your body several days or even a week in advance. Most people only perform the steps needed to prepare for self tanning immediately before application. Skin that is used to a regular routine of exfoliation and moisturiser will react better to sunless tanning products.

Since 2009, Camberwell Dental Practice has been under the new ownership of Mr Alek Missankov. Alek, a graduate from South Africa in has been working in the United Kingdom since 1997, both in Hampshire and London.

The Practice, renovated in 2009, boasts a comprehensive and high standard of private dental treatment, including advanced root canals (endodontic’s) and a wide range of cosmetic treatments such as beautiful white filings, veneers and cosmetic crowns. Camberwell Dental Practice is also committed in encouraging preventative techniques to keep your mouth free from gum disease and tooth decay.

We would be pleased to welcome you in our Practice so please feel free to contact our friendly staff for any information on dental treatment you may require.

Call Wendy or Hannah on Tel: 01379 652 580 to book your appointment.

Proper preparation of the body for self tanning can prevent common mishaps such as streaking and dark spots.

2. Moisturise the skin liberally in the days leading up to the self tanner application.

However, do not apply moisturiser immediately before applying the sunless tanner or it will dilute the pigment of the tanning product.

3. Shave your legs the day before you plan to apply the self tanner. Shaving, whether needed or not, will slough off the top layer of dead skin cells from your legs. By the next day, cell turnover will

have produced new skin cells primed for your self tanning session.

4. Shower or bathe using a washcloth and a gentle exfoliating wash.

Concentrate on rough spots like knees, elbows and ankles, which tend to darken with self tanner application. Be sure the body wash you use doesn’t contain any oils that could interfere with the self tanner.

5. Dry off completely. Skin must be free of lotions, makeup, deodorant or anything else that could leave a residue on the skin.

6. Apply a barrier product to areas with drier, thicker skin like the knees, elbows and knees.

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www.DispatchMagazine.co.uk

CARING FOR THE ELDERLY My name is Julie and I suffer with multiple sclerosis.

Approximately 30 months ago I fell and broke some of the bones in my right foot. Until then I had limited mobility and was able to walk with the aid of a frame or walking stick. Following these breakages I lost this mobility and was unable to walk at all and am now restricted to a wheelchair.

This also precluded me from getting out of bed, washing and dressing myself unaided. Care is needed to carry out any of these functions.

Manorcourt get me out of bed in the morning, assist with my personal care and at lunch time make sure I am comfortable for the rest of the day until my husband comes home from work.

Without Manorcourt my husband would have had to give up his job which would have meant our standard of living would have been lowered considerably. He is able to go to work knowing I am in good hands.

I am able to feel comfortable in my own home and relaxed knowing that this service is provided to me by “angels” that treat me as a human being with dignity and courtesy.

Manorcourt has always been flexible and accommodating as and when situations have arisen that dictate arrangements have to be altered. They have also been most understanding and helpful when problems have arisen. I can assure you this has occurred and were not only the normal run of the mill problems but Manorcourt have not been fazed and have assisted in resolving them to both parties satisfaction.

Without the staff and services provided by Manorcourt both mine and my husband’s lives would have had to change drastically.

We thank you for the first class services provided.

Age UK Norfolk’s Honorary Officers On 31st March 2011 Alan MacKim retired as Chairman of Age UK Norfolk after three and a half years’ of service.

Age UK Norfolk’s Board of Trustees has appointed Dr Peter Forster as its new Chair.

Hilary MacDonald, Chief Executive, said, “I would like to place on record my personal thanks and the gratitude of all the staff and volunteers to Alan for his hard work as our Chairman over the last three and a half years. Alan has shown great resolve, commitment and leadership skills at a time of great change.” Hilary added, “Our staff & volunteers are looking forward to

34 Dispatch May 2011

working with Peter in his new role and I know he will provide leadership at what is a challenging time for all voluntary sector organisations.”

News from across your region

Manor Court Day Care

NBR Scooter Brokers

Manor Court Day Care Centre for the elderly is based in Griston, Norfolk.

NBR Scooter Brokers is a family run business which prides itself on their commitment to their customers (existing and new!!)

individuals with dementia which recreate ‘life skills’.

It is open 5 days a week Monday - Friday from 9am - 4pm. We have around 36 guests per day all aged 55+, with social services funded and private places available.

Extend exercise classes, musical entertainers, singing, dancing, quizzes, table top activities such as dominoes, card games etc, hairdressing and chiropody are some of the services and activities that we provide on a daily basis.

Freshly cooked meals which are cooked on the premises are also provided to our guests.

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 a fully trained staff team who believe in promoting independence in all individuals where possible.

Their main objective is to provide impartial advice together with a friendly and efficient service!!

• 3 & 4 wheel walkers • Attendant and self propelled wheelchairs

They offer the service of a free, no obligation, home demonstration for all of their products to ensure they are suitable for your needs.

Apart from selling, they also offer a hire service, together with repairs, servicing and insurance work.

Whilst their core business is the supply of new mobility scooters, they also have a selection of pre-owned scooters as they offer a part exchange service.

NBR scooter brokers are accredited with Norfolk trusted traders which is organised by Norfolk County Council.

In addition to mobility scooters, they can also supply the following: • Stairlifts • Powered wheelchairs • Powerchairs • Rise & recline armchairs • Adjustable beds • Bathlifts

Reminiscence activities are available for

Healthcare Homes

Dispatch May 2011 35

www.DispatchMagazine.co.uk

Reach Over 61,000 Potential Customers Low cost display advertising to meet the smallest budget.

Reach over 61,000 homes and businesses in the Diss & Attleborough, Bury St Edmunds, Thetford, Wymondham, Dereham & Watton areas.

From a single advert in one Dispatch Magazine, to a run of 3, 6 or 12 months in one or all four Dispatch Magazines.

PUT YOUR BUSINESS IN HERE - CALL 01953 456789 NOW! Call our Sales Team for more information today: 01953 456789

36 Dispatch May 2011

Or email: Sales@Dispatch-Magazine.co.uk

The Dispatch Business Directory

Dispatch May 2011 37

www.DispatchMagazine.co.uk

Motoring Advertising The Dispatch Magazine Tyre Tracks Section is designed to offer advertising for the motoring trade around the area.

Low cost display advertising to meet the smallest budget.

Reach over 61,000 homes and businesses in the Diss & Attleborough, Bury St Edmunds, Thetford, Wymondham, Dereham & Watton areas.

From a single advert in one Dispatch Magazine, to a run of 3, 6 or 12 months in one or all four Dispatch Magazines.

PUT YOUR BUSINESS IN HERE - CALL 01953 456789 NOW! Or email: Sales@Dispatch-Magazine.co.uk

Spring Legislation Under legislation to be introduced in the spring 2011, all car owners will have to either insure their vehicles or have a Statutory Off-Road Notification (SORN).

This will mean from then it will be an clamped, seized and destroyed; or even offence to keep an uninsured vehicle, force a court prosecution that can lead to rather than merely to drive when uninsured. fines of up to £1,000.

If it appears that a vehicle has no insurance or SORN, an Insurance Advisory Letter (IAL) will be sent to the registered keeper advising them what they need to do. If the reminder is ignored, authorities can issue a £100 fine; have the vehicle

38 Dispatch May 2011

It will mean car owners can no longer allow the insurance on their vehicle to expire without taking action, even if the vehicle has had its tyres removed and is in a garage. They must now insure their vehicle or make a SORN

declaration – for which there is no charge.

It is estimated that around 1.4m UK motorists drive uninsured. These drivers cost the UK about £500m a year – adding an extra £30 a car to each insurance policy. The police currently seize about 500 uninsured vehicles every day.

It is also estimated that uninsured and untraced drivers kill 160 people and injured 23,000 in the UK every year.

For more information on how to declare your vehicle SORN please visit www.taxdisc.direct.gov.uk or www.direct.gov.uk/en/Motoring

News from across your region

Towing A Caravan Or Trailer - Driving Tips & Advice Make sure you are fit to tow by following advice from the Highways Agency. Find out how to prepare your vehicle, drive safely and check that you have the right insurance.

General Towing Advice Always check the manufacturer’s advice about the maximum weight your trailer can carry.

Before you set off make sure you: • Understand the safety regulations • Have the right driving license • Know your car’s maximum tow weight Check Your Roadside Recovery Service Check whether your motoring organisation will recover both your vehicle and what you are towing, if you break down. This isn’t usually the case with standard trailer cover, so you may need specialist breakdown cover.

Without this, it may take longer and cost extra to get your trailer or caravan towed off the road.

Do A Basic Safety Check Make sure your caravan or trailer is properly serviced and fit to be on the road. This is especially important if it’s left standing for most of the year.

Before you set off, check that the:

• Lights work properly and aren’t damaged • Tyre pressure is correct and all the tyres are in good condition (they can quickly deteriorate if not properly maintained) • Coupling is secure, level and at the right height If your caravan has a coupling with internal friction pads, make sure that the towball is clean, dry and free of grease.

• A mobile phone • A warning triangle or flashing light • Jump leads • A torch • A warm jacket • Membership details for your breakdown and recovery service

Finally, always check that you have attached the trailer or caravan securely to the vehicle and that weight is distributed as advised by the manufacturer.

Drive With Extra Care Remember that when towing a loaded caravan, horsebox or trailer: • You’ll be slower moving off • It will take longer to slow down and stop • It will be difficult driving around sharp bends

Fit A Breakaway Cable A breakaway cable is a thin cable that will pull on the brakes of a braked trailer. On an unbraked trailer, use a short strong cable or chain to keep the trailer attached to your car. The cable will prevent the nose of the trailer from touching the ground if it’s separated from the car.

Reversing may be particularly difficult, so it’s best to practise before you set off. Always: • Make sure the area behind you is clear before you start • Be particularly aware of children and other pedestrians • Ask someone to watch and guide you if possible

Take An Emergency Kit Just in case you break down, it’s a good idea to carry:

Know The Speed Limits Always stick to the following limits: • 30 miles per hour (mph) on all roads

with street lighting (unless a sign shows otherwise) • 50 mph on a single carriageway (unless a sign shows otherwise) • 60 mph on dual carriageways and motorways On The Motorway Remember, on the motorway you must not: • Drive over 60 mph • Use the right-hand (fast) lane on motorways of three or more lanes Park With Care Parking carefully is as important as driving carefully. For example: • Avoid leaving a detached trailer on a public road • If you park a trailer - whether hitched or not - on a public road at night, you must leave the lights on • Avoid parking your trailer on long grass as the moisture could damage it • On a level surface off public roads, park with the handbrake off to prevent the brake drums seizing up, but place a chock under each wheel.

Dispatch May 2011 39