Dispatch Magazine Diss & Attleborough November 2011 by Spider Creative Media

GENERAL

PR ICE LE SS agazine.co.uk

ISSUE 122 Dispatch November 2011

NEWS FOR DISS AND ATTLEBOROUGH RESIDENTS

Diss & ugh Attleboro rnivals s Ca Christma petition m o C i n i M Win A Feature n o t t a r t S g Lon

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GENERAL News

Dispatch November 2011

News from across your region

November 2011 Issue 122

Dispatch Magazine Queens House, Queens Square , Attleborough, Norfolk , NR17 2AE Tel: 01953 456789 www.DispatchMagazine.co.uk

Editor In Chief: Jonathan Horswell Advertising Manager: Jayne Ashby Advertising Sales: Kim Wild sales@DispatchMagazine.co.uk Design: Colin Jeffery. design@DispatchMagazine.co.uk

Editorial Submissions: For editorial submissions please contact one of our sales team on 01953 456789 or by email editorial@DispatchMagazine.co.uk

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FEATURES

Diss

ATTLEBOROUGH

No part of this magazine may be reproduced or used in any form or by any means, either wholly or in part, without the prior written permission of the Publisher. The views expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of the Publisher. Every effort is taken to ensure that the contents of this magazine are accurate, but the Publisher can not assume any responsibility for errors or omissions. Whilst reasonable care is taken when accepting advertisements the Publisher will not accept any resulting unsatisfactory transactions. They will, however, immediately investigate any written complaints. The Publishers reserve the right to amend such submissions and cannot accept responsibility for any loss.

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Focus On Long Stratton

November Events.

Town News.

Focus On Harleston & Eye

Book Now, Christmas Is Coming

Health, Beauty And Wellbeing Looking After You.

Fine Arts Society

Make A Will

Diss Christmas Lights Switch On 1st Of December.

Celebrating 4 Years The Rose Of India.

Have You Made Yours Yet.

Attleborough Christmas Carnival Date Set For 27th November.

Behind The Scenes.

Getting Ready For Christmas.

Redundant Phone Box

Town Council Noticeboard Monthly Update.

The Boudicca Way Project.

Local Information.

Diss Corn Hall

Guides From Attleborough Girlguiding UK’s Big Gig.

Interview With... Linda From Touch Of Class.

Caring For The Elderly News & Advice.

Your Local Vouchers Cut Out & Use Vouchers.

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November 11th 2011 Dispatch November 2011

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Operation Christmas Child Shoebox Appeal 2011 Operation Christmas Child is an initiative that sends boxes full of gifts to children around the world. Last year people from around the UK sent 1.19 million shoeboxes to 14 countries. The generous people of Suffolk sent 18,300 boxes to children in Belarus. These children generally live in poverty and have very little of their own. The gifts are the highlight of their year and are treasured long after we have forgotten about Christmas. Could you help us increase the number of boxes we send to Belarus this year? It is very simple to get involved. Get a shoebox (Shoezone and Stead & Simpsons are our partners and will be pleased to give you a box if they have one), cover it and choose an age group. Fill the box with small gifts that will delight a child. Simple things are the best - a

Dispatch November 2011

cuddly toy, crayons, paper, soap, flannel, toothbrush, toothpaste, hat, scarf and gloves. Add in a few treats like sweets and maybe a small doll or toy car, even a photograph of your family and you have a gift that these children will love and treasure. Add in £2.50 to cover transport cost then the box can be dropped off at a local drop-off point and will be delivered to our depot in Bentley. We will pack the boxes into large cartons and load them on a lorry to transport them to Belarus ready to be distributed around Christmas time. If you want to find out more about this you can find all the details on the website www.operationchristmaschild.org.uk. This gives you your nearest drop off point and the opportunity to order free leaflets, posters and DVDs. Alternatively please

ring the Area Coordinators John and Marilyn Coates on 01473 716437 or email mazcoates@hotmail.com. You can take part as an individual but if you are part of a school, church or other group that would like to get involved there are many ways we can help you organise

things. We have presenters who will come to your group and speak about the work of Operation Christmas Child. We can also arrange to collect larger numbers of boxes. All of this is free! The campaign runs until November 18th. Why not get involved and make a child very happy.

Messy Church The next Messy Church at the United Reformed Church Diss, (opposite the Co-op) on Saturday, 5th November from 10-12am will be on the theme of “The Light of the World”. We will be making all sorts of stars, sparkles, swirls and firework collages and thinking how important light is in our lives in all sorts of ways.

Drop in and join us in this popular morning of activity ending with a light lunch. For more details ring: Julian Sanders on 01842 750548.

News from across your region

Diss Corn Hall November Events. Film

Music and Dance

Art

Wednesday 2nd November Source Code (12A) 8pm. Admission: £4 / Students £2. Box Office 01379 652241 www.disscornhall.co.uk

Friday 4th November Appalachian Roots 8pm. Admission: Tickets £12 / Concessions £10 Box Office 01379 652241 www.disscornhall.co.uk

2 November - 26 November Paula Rego Nursery Rhymes & Other Stories (Paula Rego will be in conversation with Marco Livingstone on Sat 19th Nov. 11am-4pm Mon - Sat. Admission: Free Stables Gallery (beside the Corn Hall)

Saturday 5th November Classic Film Matinee Breakfast at Music Tiffany’s (PG) 2pm. Admission: £4 / Concessions £3. Box Office 01379 652241 Friday 18th November- Electric Youth www.disscornhall.co.uk Revolt EP Launch Show supports Twisted Piglet, The Pilots & Easy Wednesday 9th November Brothers 7.45pm. Still Walking (U) Subtitled 8pm. Admission: Tickets Advance £4 / Door £5 Admission: £4 / Students £2 Box Office 01379 652241 Box Office 01379 652241 www.disscornhall.co.uk www.disscornhall.co.uk Saturday 19th November Wednesday 16th November Claudia Aurora 8pm. Bridesmaids (15) 8pm. Admission: Tickets £10 / Concessions £9 Admission: £4 / Students £2 Box Office 01379 652241 Box Office 01379 652241 www.disscornhall.co.uk www.disscornhall.co.uk Saturday 26th November - Desperado Wednesday 23rd November - Heart of the Eagles 7.30pm. Senna (PG) 8pm. Admission: £4 / Students Admission: Tickets £15 / Concessions £2. Box Office 01379 652241 £13.50. Box Office 01379 652241 www.disscornhall.co.uk www.disscornhall.co.uk

Friday 25th November Red Card Comedy Club - On the Road 8.30pm. Admission: Tickets Advance £8 / Door £9.50. Box Office 01379 652241 www.disscornhall.co.uk Theatre

Poppy Appeal Friday 11th November The Royal British Legion Diss & District Branch present A Festival of Remembrance. 7.30pm. Admission: Tickets £5 / 8-16 years £2.50 / under 8’s free Box Office 01379 652241 www.disscornhall.co.uk Comedy Saturday 12th November Jeremy Hardy Tour 2011 8pm. Admission: Tickets £14 Box Office 01379 652241 www.disscornhall.co.uk

Thursday 24th November 7.30pm Open Space Theatre Company presents The Blue Angel 7.30pm. Admission: Tickets £9.50 / Concessions £7.50. Box Office 01379 652241 www.disscornhall.co.uk Family Saturday 12th November The Dancing Firefly Puppet Theatre present Shadow Play (For children aged 5-10 yrs) 2pm. Admission: Adults £5 / Children £3 Box Office 01379 652241 www.disscornhall.co.uk

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DISS News

Redundant Phone Box Becomes Innovative Information Point In Picturesque Norfolk Village A long distance footpath running through the beautiful South Norfolk countryside has an innovative new information point in one of the most picturesque villages to be found along its route. The Boudicca Way project has worked in partnership with Saxlingham Nethergate’s Parish Council to refurbish a redundant red phone box and create an information point for visitors to the area. Local resident Nikki TerBerg came up with the inspired idea and comments, “Saxlingham phone boxes were adopted by the Parish Council on behalf of the Village and I thought it would be good to use the one on the Green as an information point for the Boudicca Way because it is a starting point for many walkers. The box on the Green is a bit of an icon because it features in a picture by Michael Andrews, a well-known 20th Century British Artist, and so I thought

Dispatch November 2011

it would be nice to provide a bit of background information about Michael Andrews who lived on the Green until 1992.” Nikki adds, “The Boudicca Way Project has been extremely helpful. I knew about the route and subsequently saw some local press coverage, which made me think about contacting them. Steve Falvey (who heads up the project) was very positive from the start and I am very pleased to be able to promote the route from the box.” Steve Falvey says, “This is another excellent example of how we are doing our bit to work with and help people from local communities who are taking an active role in improving the areas they live in. We helped Nikki to develop maps and information about the Boudicca Way route which is displayed within the phone box. The information incorporates QR codes so people with smart phones can access additional information. Leaflets about the route are also available from

the box.” The new information box fits well with one of the Boudicca Way project’s key objectives to provide a range of information on the area - useful to both local people and visitors alike. The benefits the Project’s work will bring to local communities along the route has continued to attract local business partners who have signed up in support. For example Hill House in Saxlingham Nethergate which has recently been awarded a 5 star Gold Award has joined.

Owners Darren and Juliette Swayne say, “We’re proud to be involved with the Boudicca Way and hope it succeeds in its aim to bring more visitors to the area. We recommend a 4 mile round-trip that starts at our back-gate and gets visitors up to The Globe pub in Shotesham for well-deserved refreshment!” To find out more about visiting the Boudicca Way and surrounding area, visit www.boudiccaway.co.uk.

Winter Lunches A choice of steaming home-made soups, fresh bread and cheese followed by a cup of coffee or tea paid by a contribution to Christian Aid. Come and enjoy a hearty lunch on: Friday, Nov.11th, 12am-1.30pm at Diss Methodist Church, Victoria Road, Diss

and Friday, Nov. 18th, 12.30-1.30pm at St Mary’s Church Hall, Diss.

News from across your region

Diss W.I. After business matters and notices we opened our evening with a demonstration of Tai Chi by a local group which included some of our members. It appeared very calming and relaxing even to those of us just watching. Then followed a social evening with a theme of “Members and Their Talents”. Around the hall we had tables displaying examples of Artistic cards, Sugar Craft, Encaustic Art, Quilting, and Scrabble. We were very impressed by the work and skill shown by these members and with

their help and encouragement some of us were able to get involved and learn what goes into producing such clever pieces of art and craft. With refreshments and time to chat it was a very sociable evening. Before closing we were reminded that next month will be our annual AGM but also with a Christmas craft bring and buy evening.

Charities Fayre Friday, 25th November, 9-1pm at Diss United Reformed Church, Mere Street (opposite the Co-Op).

Co D m isp pe at tit ch io n

Charities participating: St. Elizabeth Hospice, Save the Children, Air Ambulance, Age Concern-Dennyholme and Diss Zipper Club, Hearing Dogs for Deaf People, Solo Housing, Traidcraft, Diss Community Bank Credit Union, To Kenya with Love, Children in Need, Water

Aid, Amnesty International, Church Stall. Christmas Cards, Wrapping Paper, Gifts, Quality Bric-a-Brac, Homebaked Cakes, Jams, Chutneys, Tombola and other Intriguing Bits and Pieces Tea, Coffee and Biscuits.

Diss Decorative & Fine Arts Society It will never show - Behind the scenes of historical costume design in Film & Television. The new season at Diss Decorative & Fine Arts Society started with a dramatic look at the skills and problems of designing the costumes for the ever-popular period dramas enjoyed on the screen. Anna Burama, an expert with a strong background over 20 years from “Jim’ll Fix it” to Grand Opera, used three specific productions to illustrate the difficulties of accuracy, detail, materials and the comfort of the stars when getting the right look in Costume Drama. Her lavishly illustrated presentation looked at the 1980’s TV play “Cariani & the Courtesans” [starring Paul McGann] and the films “Hour of the Pig” [with Colin Firth] and Kenneth Branagh’s “Love’s Labours Lost”. Anna had led the costume design and production in each case and was able to explain how she worked with the script - if there was one! - The research, the

style and materials, how to accommodate the Actors and to source or make the costumes. From original design sketches to last minute fittings we saw the work that goes into achieving the “look” that sets the scene. A very accomplished speaker, Anna was able to capture the practical aspects of her work in achieving the romance of period costume while allowing for the comfort of the actors. Diss DFAS chairman, Antony Lloyd, said afterwards “This was a wonderful start to our new season and showed the real range of the daunting title Decorative and Fine Arts”. The November Lecture is Romancing the Stone - a sparkling History of the Diamond on Tuesday, 15 November at 2.15 pm at Royden Village Hall. Guests and potential members are very welcome to come and try the experience.

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DISS News

Saving Tax Using Foreign The Importance Script Dividends. Of Making A Will Can you save tax on dividends? Sometimes you can, says Mark Wallace of Stacey & Partners! Some companies, such as Royal Dutch Shell, Rolls Royce, Standard Life and Bank Santander, offer shareholders the ability to receive shares instead of cash dividends. In the case of these companies and a few others, because of the arrangements they have, the shares received are not treated as income and dividends, as in the bulk of such script dividend schemes, but as capital transactions. This has the benefit for higher tax payers of saving them the liability on the tax. The tax situation is somewhat complicated and we would advise that before any tax payer relies upon this as a way of minimising tax, they contact a qualified accountant. Mark Wallace and his team would be able to assist further. Deeds of Variation When an individual dies, they can sometimes leave a Will that is not tax efficient or in accordance with the wishes

Dispatch November 2011

of the members of the family. In such circumstances, a Deed of Variation can be drafted by a solicitor and be effective. For the variation to be effective, the variation must be:(a) made in writing; (b) not be made by any of the persons who benefit or will benefit from the disposition; (c) made within two years of death. The Deed of Variation must not be made for any consideration of money or money’s worth, except in relation to the matter of varying the Will. Mark Wallace who is a partner at Stacey & Partners in Thetford is able to advise on a number of taxation and accounts issues. He can be contacted on 01842 826100, or by email at mwallace@staceys.co.uk. His firm has offices in Bury St Edmunds, Newmarket, and Thetford.

Making a Will enables you to provide for specific intentions that you have for the division or disposal of your property, money and possessions upon your death. A Will is particularly important when you need to: • Provide for your children • Provide for an elderly or disabled relative • Make provision for a friend • Make a gift to charity • Minimise administration costs • Minimise tax liabilities If you die without a Will that is valid you will be regarded as having died ‘intestate’, which could mean that matters are not handled in the way that you would have wished. With our ‘In Home’ service you do not need to take time off work to visit the solicitor. A trained Estate Planning Consultant will take your Will instructions in the comfort and privacy of your own home at a time to suit you. All documentation is drawn up by Overburys Solicitors, a long established local solicitor’s practice, who are regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority. This ensures that you receive

the best possible protection and know that your Will has been correctly prepared to the highest possible standards. Here at Overburys In Home, our experienced team will ensure that your Will expresses your wishes in a clear and concise manner and is legally valid. We can also advise you on related matters such as: • Inheritance and taxation laws • Appointing executors and guardians • Making gifts and setting up trusts • Marriage and separation • Changing and updating your Will To make an appointment contact our Diss office on 01379 641221 quoting Dispatch or email dispatchenquiries@overburysinhome. com. Regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA Number 00058574).

News from across your region

Comercrawley The personal injury lawyers. Your questions answered…… Question: I was recently injured in a car accident. The insurers for my vehicle have suggested that I use a firm of solicitors that I have never heard of before. Do I have to use them? Answer: Most motor insurance policies now provide what is known as ‘legal expenses insurance’ cover, which means that cover is provided in respect of legal costs that you may incur in pursuing a compensation claim following a road traffic accident. Often your motor insurer will assume that you wish to use your legal expenses insurance cover and will put you in contact with a firm of solicitors of their choice who will then deal with your claim. You are not, however, obliged to go down this route and there is nothing to prevent you from instructing a solicitor of your own choice. By choosing your own solicitor you can select, say, a local solicitor and one that you have confidence in. This is particularly important if you are seriously injured as a result of an accident. Your solicitor is likely to act on your behalf

under a conditional fee agreement, often known as a ‘no win-no fee’ arrangement. As we offer a ‘no cost to client’ service, our clients are assured that there will be no financial cost to them in pursuing a claim and therefore there is no financial disadvantage in a client deciding not to instruct a solicitor through a legal expenses insurance policy. Therefore if you wish to instruct a solicitor of your own choice, you are free to do so. All you need do is to contact your solicitor and inform your motor insurance company that you already have a solicitor dealing with your claim. Similarly, even if you have the benefit of free legal representation through membership of a Trade Union, this does not prevent you from instructing a solicitor of your own choice. The advantages again are that you can choose a local solicitor with a good reputation. 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.

Diss Bed Centre And Furniture Warehouse ...Is a family owned business which has been established for over 36 years, based in Diss, Norfolk. Our new Furniture Warehouse on Sawmills Road, Diss offers a huge selection of leading styles of bedroom, occasional, dining and office furniture including Bedsteads, Sideboards, Wardrobes, Dining Tables, Chairs, Units, TV Stands, Nests of Tables, Desks and much more. All ranges are available in solid woods including oak, ash, beech, birch and pine. We also have a new exciting range of TV beds, electric beds and rise and recline chairs and with new lines being released regularly we are the place to visit for the latest styles and ranges. Big brands include Sealy, Silentnight, Hypnos, Myers, Staples and Healthbeds to name but a few. With over 10 ranges of furniture displayed in store you shouldn’t struggle to find what you are looking for, however if you can’t see it on the shop floor do ask as there is every chance we can order it in for you - orders placed before Wednesday will be in and ready for delivery by the Friday. We have a large range of stock in at all times

available for same or next day delivery meaning you haven’t got to wait weeks for your new furniture. You can also visit our website for our full ranges and our latest offers www.dissbedcentre.co.uk. The store has easy access and parking and we offer free local delivery using our own specialised team, all of our furniture is ready assembled on delivery which saves you the time and stress of trying to assemble it yourself. With years of experience in the industry and fantastic customer service, we are best placed to give you any advice you need on the furniture you are looking for. We offer something to suit every taste and budget. Store opening times are as follows: Sawmills Road: Monday: Friday 9am-5pm Saturday: 9am - 4pm, Sunday: 10am -4pm.

Dispatch November 2011

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DISS News

Agents For Change? Priya Nainthy, Employment Law Partner at Jackamans Solicitors, discusses the issues surrounding the new Agency Worker Regulations. The Agency Worker Regulations 2010 came in to force on 1st October 2011. In brief, these Regulations entitle temporary agency workers to receive the same treatment as the permanent employees they are working with in relation to basic employment terms and conditions. There are a large number of agency workers in the UK and so it is envisaged that these Regulations will have a significant impact on UK businesses.

sets of rights. The first are “day one” rights to which the worker is immediately entitled as soon as he starts the assignment. The second set requires a qualifying period of work. The day one rights include entitlement to receive equal access to collective facilities and amenities that are made available to permanent employees. The Regulations themselves state that these facilities will include child care facilities, a canteen and the provision of transport services. However, the government guidance has gone further and suggests that car parking, food and drinks machines and showers will also be relevant amenities.

When looking at the Regulations, the first question to ask is who do they apply to? An agency worker is defined as someone supplied by a temporary work agency to work temporarily for the hirer. It is therefore clear that there will be three parties involved: the worker, the agency and the hirer. The agency worker must also work under the supervision and direction of that hirer. Furthermore, there should be either a contract of employment with the agency or a contract to perform work personally. Only the genuinely self-employed will not be covered. There are essentially two

Having set out these day one rights however, it is right to say that the main focus on these Regulations has been in relation to basic terms of employment. In order to be entitled to receive equal treatment, an agency worker must have completed 12 continuous weeks of an assignment in the same role. Once this qualifying period has been completed, the agency worker is entitled to the same basic terms and conditions of working and employment as the permanent employees in relation to pay, duration of working time, length of night work, rest breaks and annual

10 Dispatch November 2011

leave. As you may imagine, the issue of what amounts to “pay” is itself defined in the Regulations. It includes any fee, bonus, commission or holiday pay relating to the employment. It will therefore include basic and overtime pay, shift and unsocial hours allowances and bonuses and commission payments that are directly linked to the amount or quality of work that is done by that worker. However, it will not include company sick pay, company maternity, paternity or adoption pay, notice pay, benefits in kind and bonuses not linked to individual work. There are also rules on how the qualifying period can be broken. When the worker works for any part of a week, then that counts as a whole week for the qualifying period. Where there is a break of more than six calendar weeks either during or between assignments then continuity will have been broken and the qualifying period clock will start again. However, if the break is less than six weeks, then continuity will merely have been suspended. The clock is therefore deemed to have stopped but is not reset. Instead, it simply continues where it left off when the assignment restarts. The Regulations envisage that some employers may try to get around these new rules. Therefore, the Regulations

contain specific anti-avoidance measures to prevent them being circumvented. An example of this is if a hirer or agency structures assignments with the intention of preventing the worker from acquiring equal rights under the Regulations. If this is the case, then a claim can be made to the Employment Tribunal and an additional penalty of up to £5,000 can be awarded against the hirer or agency in question. There has been much publicity about these Regulations. As I said earlier, the UK has a large number of agency workers. It remains to be seen, however, how employers who regularly use agency workers will react to these new measures. Will it be a case of embracing the change and allowing equal rights to accrue or will there be a revolving door after 11 weeks of an assignment? Priya Nainthy has acted over a number of years for employers involved in a wide range of businesses from small companies to large plc’s. He also regularly advises and represents employees. For further information about this article or any of the employment law services provided by Jackamans contact Priya Nainthy on 01379 643555 or at priya.nainthy@jackamans.co.uk.

Diss Christmas Lights And Late Night Shopping! Diss Christmas Lights Extravaganza!! Diss will be switching on their Christmas lights making them alight with Christmas fever on �� the 1st of December. Between 5.30pm and 8.30pm Diss shall be filled with Christmas spirit. With the lights being switched on at 6.45pm, there will be plenty of activities and stalls to keep all the family entertained. Santa should be arriving on a Vintage Fire-Engine which has been restored by Bressingham Steam Volunteers. There will be entertainment throughout the evening including: • Juggling Elves. • Back on popular demand is Big Als swinging Santa’s. • Punch and Judy show (sponsored by Copy Diss).

• Also Alfie Barnes who’s 10 years old is performing his skills with the Diablo after winning Lopham Talent show. • Various stalls shall be available. If you wish to have a stall on this festive event (either charity or trade) please call Poz on 07836 605032 for more details. Diss United Reform Church is providing ‘candles to the crib’. You can light an advent candle and guide Mary and Joseph to their manger. Park Radio should also be making an appearance (subject to availability) flowing out those tunes for all to sing along to. Also a BBQ provided from Oliver who runs the refreshments on the park.

Please Get Your Money Working Locally This Christmas Your local bookshop is a key part of Your community and we at the Diss Publishing Co, since 1925, want you to keep it that way. Please make us a destination when shopping for Cards, Arts, Gifts, Stationery and Books. Gather your thoughts over a tea, coffee or light lunch in our Cafe and keep up to date with our monthly “book times”. Write your Christmas cards here, the view of the Mere is breathtaking! To make you feel extra good this Christmas here is a reminder of what you do when shopping with us: • You keep money in the local economy. • �� You embrace what makes us unique. • �� You create local jobs.

• �� You nurture the community. • �� You help keep the high street healthy. • �� You create more choice. • �� You take advantage of our expertise. • �� You invest in entrepreneurship. So please • Come and see us soon, Bring a friend, Thank you Find us at 40 Mere St, Diss Telephone 01379-644612 www.disspublishing.co.uk

Dispatch November 2011 11

www.attleboroughonline.co.uk

Welcome to

attleborough

Attleborough Town Council Noticeboard

Digital Roadshow Hits Attleborough

Monthly Update.

Attleborough hosted the latest roadshow event staged by digital UK.

Jubilee Partnership The Jubilee Partnership is a working group established by the Town Council to coordinate efforts to deliver a programme of events marking the diamond jubilee of Queen Elizabeth II in June 2012. The next meeting of the group will be held on 20 October at the Town Hall (6 p.m.) when initial ideas and suggestions to mark the occasion will be explored further. Suggestions so far received include lighting a beacon as part of a nationwide commemoration, a permanent commemorative sculpture or time capsule, as well as other wide-ranging ancillary events over a four day period. Community Recreation and Fitness The Council recognises the need for

12 Dispatch November 2011

additional recreation and fitness facilities in the town and are in the process of actively applying for external funding to enhance such community facilities in Attleborough, to the benefit of all age groups. Attleborough Development Working Group The Town Councilâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s dedicated working group looking at controlled expansion of Attleborough met on 20th September and welcomed a good turnout from local organisations and townsfolk in which useful feedback was received. The next step is arranging a workshop session in the next few weeks in order to drill down into the necessary detail regarding specific infrastructure provision.

The organisation which is promoting the looming digital switchover of television service in East Anglia and beyond. The Council facilitated the visit of the roadshow to the townâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s weekly market on Thursday 29th of September. The switchover dates in Norfolk are the 9th and 23rd of November this year when the Tacolneston transmitter, which covers the Attleborough area, will be targeted for digital service and everyone must retune their sets or set top boxes to receive the digital signal. The roadshow moves on to other local towns in the next few weeks including a three day stint outside The Forum

in Norwich from the 6th to the 8th of October. For more information about the digital switchover contact digitaluk.co.uk or call 08456 50 50 50.

Attleborough Christmas Carnival 27th November Is Going To Be A Fantastic Sunday. A Day To Remember! This is the day that Attleborough will be holding its Christmas Carnival and switching on our lights. For many years now Attleborough’s Christmas lights has been one, if not the best displays in Norfolk and this year will be just the same. The afternoon will start at 1pm and should be finishing at about 6pm. Santa will be arriving in traditional style in his sleigh at Queens Square at about 2pm so please be there to welcome him and his real life reindeers Comet and Cupid. The Reindeers will snuggle down on Queens Square where you can take photos during the afternoon and Santa wil be in his fairytale grotto which is situated next to Queens Square Car Park slightly different from usual but still with lots of presents. This year we have actor Martin Ballantyne who was Scary face In Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince. He has also been in episodes of Kingdom, along with other blockbuster films such as Batman The Black Knight and The Golden Compass, he will be there to sign autographs for fans. We are very pleased to welcome members from the Norwich Time Travellers along with their very own Daleks and other time travellers memorabilia.

We will have over 60 Craft and charity stalls spread across four venues, The Town Hall, The Sports Centre, The Church Hall and there will be a Mind, Body and Soul Extravaganza in Connaught Hall. There is no need to worry about getting to see everything as the Eastern Transport Collection are once again allowing us to have their vintage bus to take people from the Town Centre to and from Connaught Hall during the afternoon. We have Children from Morley VE Primary School Choir who will be singing during the afternoon on the Queens Square and we are very pleased to welcome the Poringland Singers who most recently have just finished singing with Russell Watson, and also sing on the backing tracks of the BBC CD’s for Doctor Who, so watch out for something spectacular from them. Both groups will be getting together later in the afternoon to sing carols around the tree from about 3.45 pm just before we switch on the lights at 4.15pm.

fun fair rides and side shows, we have a real treat in store and this as he will be showcasing his new ride Snowstorm and thrilling ride for everyone over the age of 13 years. If you feel like a pick you up then why not partake of the hog roast, burgers , hot dogs or other food stalls that will be about . The committee would like to thank in particular the following people for all their help and support, Donna Kissinger Estate Agents, Rory J Holbrook, R J Bartram & Son, Attleborough Kebab and Pizza, D C R Music, Rosedale Funeral Home, Eastern Transport Collection,

Rose of India, Mrs Fatima Marie Byrne, Kerry Butcher Accounting Services, A & G Butchers, Oakleys Coach Builders, The London Tavern and Larry Grays Fun Fair. Anyone wishing to book a stall we still have a few places left so please ring Gill on 01953 454350. Please come along and enjoy yourself and support this event we have tried very hard to have something for everyone and this year have pulled out all the stops to try to make this happen. The committee look forward to seeing you there on the day and thank you for your support.

Rev Matthew Jackson will bless the tree and then he will be going onto St Mary’s Church for his Carole Oke everyone is welcome. Larry Gray is also going to be on hand by supplying some fantastic

Dispatch November 2011 13

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ATTLEBOROUGH News

Charity Event Breckland Flower & Garden Club and Great Ellingham & District Flower Club are holding a charity event on Friday 25th November 2011, At Connaught Hall Attleborough at 7.30pm doors open 6.45pm. The event is “Crackers about Christmas” a flower demonstration by Christine Hewson, Brenda Tubb, Joy Tunmore and Ann Norris, the arrangements will be raffled at the end of the evening, also there will be a tombola. Tickets are £10.00 to include nibbles, from Ann Norris 01953 454583 or Christine Hewson 01953 454528.

All monies raised will go to Star Throwers of Wymondham, which is a not-forprofit, registered charity run entirely by passionate volunteers, dedicated to supporting and advising people in East Anglia who are affected by cancer, or are at particular risk of developing cancer. If you need anymore information please contact me.

Celebrating 4 Years! The Rose of India restaurant in Attleborough Celebrated 4 years of trading by opening their doors to all their regular customers on Monday evening. Owner Abdur Rahman said it was a way to say thank you to our regular customers for their support over the year. Managers Syed Raj and Azmal Ali said by giving a buffet it was a way of getting people to try different sorts of food. Mayor Karen Pettitt one of the guests said it was

Attleborough Writers’ Group The Attleborough Writers’ Group hopes that the elements will be kind when BBC weather man Jim Bacon launches their third collection of short stories and poems this winter. The book entitled `Highlights’ will be officially unveiled at the Attleborough Town Hall on Saturday 3rd December 2011 between 10.30 am - 12.30 pm. `Highlights’ is the latest offering from the Attleborough Writers’ and comes hard on the heels of their two previous sell-out works `Dark Horses’ and `Light & Dark’. `Highlights’ includes beautifully written stories and poems many of which are inspired by the people and places of Norfolk. There really is something for everyone to enjoy.

great to see a local run business going from strength to strength. “There was a lovely party atmosphere and everyone who I spoke to had a really good time. It is nice to see this business like so many businesses in the Town really get involved with the community”.

The book will be available to purchase subsequently at: The Card and Gift Box, Church Street, Attleborough Peter Beales Roses, London Road, Attleborough She Fashions, Exchange Street, Attleborough The Attleborough Writers’ Group looks forward to seeing you for a festive mince pie and refreshments on 3rd December and hope you will also support their raffle in aid of East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH).

Don’t forget to check out the Your Local Vouchers on Page 42

Santon Downham Village Hall Indoor Car Boot on the 6th of November - Tables by reservation ONLY: £6.00 per Table. The car boot is at 10am-2pm. Race Night-Saturday 19th of November starts at 7.30 pm. Entry is £2.00 per person. Christmas Bazaar, Saturday 3rd of December, Tables by reservation ONLY £6.00 per table, Starts at 10-4. Admission is 50p per person. New Year’s Eve Buffet and Dance, 31st December starts at 7.30pm costs £12 per person to

14 Dispatch November 2011

include a wonderful buffet and dancing to Mindy’s Road show - Theme is 1970’s and costume is optional. Plenty of car parking places, toilets and a cafe in the hall. All enquiries for any of the above events please call 01842 815213.

News from across your region

Attleborough Bible Society

Morley & Attleborough Methodist Youth Club

Verse and Thought for the Month, November 2011.

The club was established by Robert Hendry at Morley St. Botolph in 1974 and now meets Tuesday evenings at Attleborough Methodist Church, London Road, term time.

“What causes fights and quarrels among you? …You want something but don’t get it. You kill and covet, but you cannot have what you want. You quarrel and fight. You do not have, because you do not ask God” James 4 verse 1 and 2. War War daily dominates our television screens. Why is this? In defiance of our Maker, we fight out of greed, fear, and the desire for power, caused in turn by our

flawed nature. Can man outlaw war? History shows that the United Nations’ resolutions have largely failed to bring peace on earth. We need a revolution not a violent one, but a spiritual one, one which transforms our attitudes by a new birth that Jesus, the Prince of Peace, offers to all who come to Him in faith. He also gives the strength to love even our enemies and the deep desire to seek peace and reconciliation with all, irrespective of their creed or colour.

Kerry Butcher Accountancy Services The nights are drawing in, the clocks have gone back and Christmas is nearly here! Of course in reality there are still a few weeks to go before the festive season but weeks fly by.

tax return. We can also advise the tax credits office of your taxable income (authorisation is required).

This is always an expensive time of year, so wouldn’t it be nice if your self assessment tax return was submitted and you knew if you had tax to pay.

Once this is done and your credit award is recalculated, you may even end up with an increase in your award.

Then there are tax credits; you could well have had to estimate your annual income back in July before the review deadline.

Call us on 01953 457173 or email Kerry@kerrybutcher.co.uk and arrange that initial free consultation.

Your actual income needs confirming before 31 January 2012. Here at KBAS we can complete your accounts and

Make sure your tax return is submitted by 31 January 2012 and let us help you avoid a fine.

The Junior Group is for 7-10s 6.00 p.m. to 7.45 p.m, Senior Group 11-15s 7.25 p.m. to 9.05 p.m. All are welcome to join, £1 per session. A tuck shop is available. There are computer games, crafts for Juniors, pool, table tennis, table football and hockey or just come to chill out and

meet your friends. There are some outings for roller skating or bowling. The next all age disco is 29 November 6.00 to 9.00 p.m, members £1, non-members £2. For more information please contact Robert Hendry on 01953 603225.

Winter Fayre Wymondham College Parent Staff Association will be holding a Winter Fayre at the college on Saturday 12th November from 10am till 4pm. Over 40 local stall-holders will offer a wide range of quality handmade crafts and jewellery, brilliant Christmas gift ideas and delicious local produce. Tea, coffee, cakes and light lunches will be available, so bring a friend and get some shopping done! The Fayre is to be held in the Sports Hall at Wymondham College, Golf Links Road, Morley, NR18 9SZ. Entry will be just £1 for

adults, children and College students are free of charge. There will also be a raffle, and all money raised will be put towards some of the varied projects supported by the PSA at Wymondham College. Contact: lawsonma.ad@wymondhamcollege.org for further information.

Dispatch November 2011 15

ATTLEBOROUGH News www.attleboroughonline.co.uk

Guides From Attleborough & East Harling Wowed By The UK’s Top Pop Stars Pixie Lott, Olly Murs, Dionne Bromfield all perform at exclusive Girlguiding UK BIG GIG 2011. More than 30,000 music fans including over 30 Guides from 1st Attleborough and 1st East Harling Companies descended on London’s Wembley Arena in October (1/10/2011) to see some of music’s top acts perform at Girlguiding UK’s BIG GIG 2011. Pixie Lott, Dionne Bromfield and Olly Murs were among the stars on show at the music event, which has been held exclusively for guiding members for ten years. The demand for tickets among members was so overwhelming that for the first time three concerts were put on over the weekend. The event was hosted by super-daring children’s television presenter Helen Skelton, who was suggested by a huge number of girls on Girlguiding UK’s

16 Dispatch November 2011

internet forum. With temperatures soaring for the time of year, the girls dressed in their summer outfits ready for the 3 hour coach journey to London. On arrival, everyone was given a sparkly white cowboy hat so we could all be identified in the crowds! Wembley Arena was filled with excited teenagers with posters for their favourite acts, flashing bunny ears, pink tutus and bespoke t-shirts printed for the occasion. The Guides said they particularly enjoyed Olly Murs and The Wanted. Kathryn Donald, Girlguiding Wayland District Commissioner, added: “All the girls had such a brilliant time at the BIG GIG. It’s fantastic that Girlguiding UK put together such an enjoyable and unique ‘girls-only’ day that’s so relevant to what they are listening to today�� .

It was so much fun to watch such cool musicians and scream with thousands of Guides!” The BIG GIG concert is for Girlguiding UK members aged between ten and 14. Previous events have been held in Manchester’s MEN Arena and Birmingham’s NEC.

News from across your region

Thinking Of A Laptop Simon Cattermole For Christmas? Is Your Opens New Store Computer Behaving?

New General Store opened in King Street, New Buckenham.

Well we can help! New & Recon units - Each branch of Anglia Computer Solutions has just received new stock of all types of new and reconditioned PC’s. Whether it’s a desktop or laptop you are after we have it and at very competitive prices too! Recon laptops from £129! New Laptops from £299! Desktops through all price ranges. Speed up \ Upgrades - Have you already got a PC? is it running a bit slow or not quite up to spec for what you need? Well bring it into us. We will go through the unit, clear out anything that isn’t required, remove any viruses and give it a general speed boost. If you need something a bit extra ask for a RAM upgrade, this should have you typing away in no time.

Backups - Are often forgotten, but when your computer crashes it’s no laughing matter. Every year we see hundreds of people that have lost their work, photos, music etc and without spending a small fortune it’s gone for good. For as little as £10 we can setup a backup system which will ensure you never lose all the hard work you have created.

Kings Stores, has been taken over by Sue and Simon Cattermole, who also runs the butchers shop next door. The Gift shop that was there closed its doors at the beginning of September and Sue and Simon decided to take over the lease.

hopefully Sue and Simon will be there another 16 years. Kings stores offers food items, newspapers and has applied for a licence to sell alcohol. Opening times are every day from 7am - 7pm.

Mrs Cattermole said “it had once traded as a general store and we saw it as an opportunity to bring the facility back to the village, the village needs it and we hope they will support us in our new venture”. They have so far had a really good response from the residents and

Just pop into one of our branches and have a chat, we will soon determine how much data you need to backup and provide the best solution for you. For all your home and business computer needs call Anglia Computer Solutions on 01953 859753.

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www.attleboroughonline.co.uk

ATTLEBOROUGH News

Old Buckenham Village Hall Want To Act The Committee and Old Buckenham Players present: The Charm Of Ivor Novello.

But tired of having to travel to the city?

A Celebration Of His Music And His Life.

From September 2011 people of all ages can now enjoy the art of theatre craft and acting at the new Theatre Company starting up in Wymondham called Slow Theatre Company.

Underlying the good looks was his personal charm that won him the admiration of his Music performed by Annette Jude & Suzie friends and colleagues and the adoration of Turner. Commentary presented by John & his audiences. This evening’s programme June Garratt. In a life-time that spanned little hopes to capture in words and songs, the more than a half century, Ivor Novello’s talent charm of Ivor Novello. The Village Hall Old lit up every career he touched. He started as a Buckenham: Saturday, November 19th, composer of songs, became a Hollywood film 7.30 pm. star, then a stage actor, later a playwright and finally a creator of spectacular musical plays. Tickets £7 (to include coffee/tea and He was the matinee idol of his day, once cakes) from Old Buckenham Stores or described as the handsomest man in England. by phoning 01603 810373.

Macmillan Cancer Support Christmas Fair 19th November 2011. The Attleborough fundraising committee will be holding their annual Christmas Fair on 19th November 2011 in the Connaught Hall, Station Road, Attleborough from 10am - 1.30pm. There will be a special guest appearance by Danny Nobbs, British Champion Paralympic shot putter who will open proceedings. You will find many interesting stalls displaying a variety of wares, including Christmas Cards, crackers,

18 Dispatch November 2011

books, cakes, preserves and lots of ideas for Christmas presents. There will be a childrens tombola, a silent auction, teddies, various raffles and a Grand Draw with a first prize of £100. So come along and support this worthy cause. Our events aim to raise money to enable Macmillan Cancer Support to improve the lives of people affected by cancer.

This new Theatre Company offers classes for children, youths and adults; and at present has spaces available on the Youth Performance Group (13 - 18) which will be performing in the prestigious national festival by The National Theatre with a chance to perform in London. At Slow Theatre Company the ethos is co-operation, team building, and developing confidence whilst developing skills and performing at a high level. Laughter, fun, concentration and ensemble work is central to the way they work. At Slow Theatre there is a desire to slow things down from the speed of celebrity and instant fame we see and hear about so often in our electronic media; instead at this theatre company you will look at the technique of stage craft and explore

the world of theatre. The directors are trained and working in the industry and the company belongs to SAFER NORFOLK, regulated by Norfolk County Council as well as being a member of the National Association of Youth Theatres. If you like acting, looking at characters, would like to gain confidence whilst having lots of fun then why not give Slow Theatre classes a go. They have very competitive rates with reductions for families on low incomes. Waiting lists are now in place for the children’s & adult classes. As well as the weekly classes Slow Theatre will be running workshops and a holiday club during the school holidays from 2012. Classes are held at Wymondham High School and are open to all. Check out their website for more information www.slowtheatrecompany.co.uk.

News from across your region

Contemporary Living At Heisker Gardens Award-winning company Bennett Homes, which has been building homes in East Anglia for nearly 65 years, has just released a charming terrace of three two bedroom cottages in an attractive courtyard development off West Carr Road in Attleborough. Ideal for contemporary living, all properties are traditionally-built and finished to a high specification with garages and good-sized gardens. Prices start from £135,995. There are also six spacious bungalows on the Heisker Gardens development; all but one of these are now sold and the first will be occupied during October. Edward Parker, Managing Director at Bennett Homes said: “We are delighted to be releasing these cottages at Heisker Gardens. The combination of contemporary living within easy access of excellent amenities is certain to prove a hit with our customers”. There are lots of advantages to buying a brand new home: Today, more than ever before, the construction industry in the UK is building homes of a very high quality both in terms of fitted features and improved energy efficiency.

When you buy new, you can really make your home your own. From choosing the wall colours through to fixtures and fittings such as kitchens and bathrooms, you can stamp your own style on the interior.

simpler transaction. Bennett Homes offers a range of schemes designed to help buyers and make moving easier, including an Equity Scheme where you can own 100% of your home but pay just 85% of the price, with 15 years to repay the balance and a unique LendA-Home Scheme where Bennett Homes

will provide a home, rent-free, which buyers can move into until their new home is ready. More details from Bennett Homes on 01284 766057 www.bennett-homes.co.uk.

It also means that you don’t have to live with other people’s colour schemes and then carry out refurbishment later on. Buying an older property can mean that some of the fittings and fixtures are old and need replacing. With a new home, everything is brand new and comes with guarantees so there’s no worry about breakdowns. New technology can also be much more efficient. Moving house is one of the most stressful things you can do and anything that reduces this is a good thing. When you move into a new home, there’s no onward chain which makes for a

Dispatch November 2011 19

www.attleboroughonline.co.uk

ATTLEBOROUGH News

Have A Street Party! Having a street party is easier than you think! That’s because Breckland Council is running a series of workshops offering support and advice on how to host a street party to celebrate the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee. The Queen’s Diamond Jubilee 2nd - 5th June 2012 will be a great excuse to hold a street party. One million people held street parties for this year’s royal wedding and it’s hoped that many more will organise one for the Jubilee. A street party is a great opportunity to meet your neighbours and have fun with the kids and adults playing together in a traffic-free street. Lynda Turner, Executive member for Localism, Communities and

Environmental Services said; “The Diamond Jubilee is an excellent opportunity for neighbourhoods to get together and celebrate - a good party can inspire people to work towards streets that are permanently more sociable and safer. We are delighted to be offering the workshops to give residents a good starting point” Breckland Council is holding a number of workshops in your local area to help you plan and organise the perfect street party. For details of a workshop near you please see www.breckland.gov.uk; look in the Breckland Voice magazine or call Cat Lang on Cat Lang on 01362 656870.

Make The Odds Of Winning, Stack In Your Favour And help save the life of someone in East Anglia. With all the talk of lotteries in the press at the moment, don’t you want to find one where the odds of winning are stacked in your favour? Not only that, but don’t you know that a significant amount of the money you hand over is going towards a good cause? Playing the National Lottery will give you odds of 14million to one of winning the top prize and donates 28p per £1 to good causes. The new Health Lottery gives you slightly better odds of winning at two million to one and will hand over just 20p of your £1 to good causes. But there is a third option. A lottery which gives you a one in 40,000 chance of winning the top prize along with the knowledge that more than 65p of your pound is going towards a life saving service in your local area. The East Anglian Air Ambulance Lottery not only gives you a better chance of winning the top prize but it also gives a higher percentage back to the a charity which operates two air ambulances across the East of England. These air ambulances carry their life-saving crews to hard to reach locations to help people caught in emergencies and need specialist medical help at the scene. Each and every week there are 18 guaranteed prizes, ranging from £50 to £1,000, to be won. It also runs an accumulator alongside the main draw and someone could be lucky enough to win up to £25,000. These 19 chances of winning each week are available for the price of £1 and lottery members really make a

20 Dispatch November 2011

difference to this vital charity. Tim Page, Chief Executive of EAAA, said: “It’s a shame that a lottery which states that it wants to help health charities and organisations isn’t contributing a bit more from their ticket sales. Our lottery guarantees that around two thirds of your donations goes directly towards helping saves the lives of people in our region as well as giving you the chance of winning a cash prize each week. “Our lottery membership makes up almost half of our annual income and those who play each and every week are really making a difference to the service we offer. Without them we simply wouldn’t be able to offer this life-saving service to the people of East Anglia. “We receive no direct Government funding or National Lottery funding and rely solely on the generations donations of the public to raise the £4.2million a year we need to keep the service running. “We currently run the second most successful lottery, behind the National Lottery, in the country and believe we have a lottery which not only helps the charity operate but also gives something back to our supporters by giving participant the chance to win some great prizes.” Signing up couldn’t be easier. For further details on how to join the East Anglian Air Ambulances Lottery visit www.eaaa.org.uk or call 01603 489400 and an application form can be sent out to you.

News from across your region

De-Stress Your Garden Heather White Computer Support Is the work involved in keeping your garden looking its best taking its toll? Why not consider having your garden redesigned by our expert design and landscaping team to incorporate many low-maintenance features such as raised beds, mulched or pebble-covered borders, easy-care paving and fully edged lawns.

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!

There are plenty of techniques that may be used to keep maintenance to a minimum whilst introducing design flair, interest and intrigue to your garden to improve its overall appearance.

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.

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,

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

Computers and the internet and the need to understand these are becoming more essential every day. Purchasing a computer and getting it all set up is one thing but then you come across hurdles regularly with Above: day to day Heather White. things such as your email, your new camera, your new printer or just updates and different websites. I recognise that everyone has a different need and wants to get something different from their computer. I also recognise that you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t always want to sit in a room and be taught things that

mean nothing to you at home. I also think that some things can be explained without too much technical talk. Female support comes to you, at your pace, on your computer. I can go through what you want to know at a time that suits you. Chatting with your family online and sharing photos is a great way to feel included on those long winter days. Ever thought about finding old friends and colleagues and catching up with them? Or maybe you are not as mobile as you used to be and would like access to alternative ways of communicating? If you think I can help you please contact me for an initial chat.

Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t forget to check out the Your Local Vouchers on Page 42

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www.attleboroughonline.co.uk

Synergy Solar Systems Ltd The directors of Synergy Solar Systems both had been concerned for some time by the selling techniques and the quality of work seen from some of the companies in the industry. They both knew there was a need for an ethical company that would guarantee their customers a high quality installation without costing the earth and between them they had the skill, knowledge and resources to be that Company. So Synergy Solar Systems Ltd was born. Operating from the premises of their sister company, the long established Yare Electrical Services Ltd, Synergy Solar Systems Ltd provide high quality Solar PV panel installations throughout Norwich, Norfolk and East Anglia. Why choose Solar Energy? • Fuel is free • It produces no noise, harmful emissions or polluting gases • PV solar systems are safe and highly reliable

appropriate to your needs. Some companies offer a ‘rent a roof’ scheme. Synergy do not offer this scheme as responsibility of your own roof becomes a huge issue, especially if you intend to move or pass your property on. This system could be riddled with legal complications and is only offered so they can receive the lucrative feed in tarriff for 25 years instead of you. Because of the ownership complications of this scheme, the authorities are now looking into stopping it. Their in house design engineers use Amtech and Auto Cad the industries leading design software. All projects are designed to the latest British standards and CDM regulations. With a wealth of experience in Commercial, Industrial and Domestic Environments they can offer solutions to all your electrical requirements.

• Requires very little maintenance • Saves using electricity and earns you money The government estimates a Tax Free return of up to 10% on your investment, compare that to your current savings! The company is an MCS (Micro-generation Certification Scheme) accredited installer and takes their accreditation seriously and are happy to abide by the code of conduct that our membership of the MCS requires. You won’t find them using high pressure sales tactics or any of the other issues people experience. Synergy Solar Systems Ltd’s commitment to you is simply to give you a quality service at a fair price for a solar PV system that is

22 Dispatch November 2011

Please call 01603 605542 for further information or visit www.synergysolarsystems.co.uk for your Free No Obligation Quote. As well as being a director of Synergy Electrical, Shaun is also Director of Yare Electrical Services and coming soon Yare Decorators Ltd providing project management and installation services throughout East Anglia. Please telephone 01603 626400 or visit www.yareelectricalservices.co.uk for further information of the services on offer. Synergy Solar Systems Ltd is pleased to annonce there partnership with Breckland Windows Ltd.

Breckland Windows We are pleased to choose Synergy Solar Systems Ltd to be our partner company. This is a very exciting development in the home improvement market with the feed in tariff and day time free electricity; this is a fantastic opportunity for people to have an income very much higher than current Isa’s etc. As with Breckland Windows LTD all sales either windows, doors etc or solar panels will be conducted by Ray which cuts out the time consuming process of the salesman! The company was started in 1988 by Ray Harman and has traded from the Dereham location covering all of Norfolk. The company specialise in PVCu windows, doors conservatories, fascias gutters and now the very fashionable composite door range. Breckland Windows LTD has been installing quality home improvement products in Norfolk for over 23 years, and we take pride in consistent levels of real customer service. We have seen over the years many changes in the industry which has benefited the house holder enormously such as the introduction of Fensa to regulate the industry in 2002, and now the introduction of the minimum C crafted window. We have made the decision to only fit A rated products as standard, also as with the ever evolving industry.

Breckland Windows Energy Rated Windows will reduce heat loss and therefore save money every year on fuel bills, and all Breckland Windows doors and windows carry the official Police Security Accreditation-‘secured by design’ and have full 10 year etc insurance backed guarantee. Why not take advantage of our trade in offer on any older style PVC or Aluminium windows and doors, secondary double glazing or even that old conservatory. You may have brought your property with windows, doors etc that you do not like or sealed units or hinges may be worn out. With this unique opportunity, I can offer you a discount on any old PVCu or aluminium because I have contact with a national company to re-cycle waste products from out industry, which means you save MONEY! Last but not least, have you got condensation inside your sealed units and your frames are still in good condition, then we are here to help with a great range of products to choose from. FOR GREAT AUTUMN OFFERS and for further information, or a no-obligation quotation, call Breckland windows on 01362 698035.

Above: Recent Solar Panel And Conservatory Installation.

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ATTLEBOROUGH News

Is Your Guttering Coping? Supreme Bathrooms With our ever increasing rainfall. UPVC guttering is a welcome addition to most homes, it is attractive, robust and requires very little maintenance, the most it should need is a clean to keep it looking its best. UPVC guttering is available in a range of colours and styles to suit most homes. The main colours are black, brown and white and the styles are half round, square, ogee and deep flow. If your gutters are overflowing and not blocked then this in itself is an indication the gutter is undersized for the capacity of water it is required to carry at that point. You may need to replace it with Deep Flow Guttering. Deep Flow guttering is a deep high capacity gutter system

24 Dispatch November 2011

New ranges are now in stock. designed for houses where existing gutter systems are struggling to cope under our ever increasing rainfall. High capacity gutter systems also have the benefit of needing fewer down pipes which can improve the aesthetic appeal of your property.

As one of the leading bathroom specialists in East Anglia with one of the finest showrooms in the area displaying over 80 bathroom suites and shower enclosures, now has never been a better time to order that all important new bathroom.

Deep Flow gutters are only marginally wider than standard round profiles but itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s increased depth is where the extra capacity is achieved.

With the arrival of our new ranges from R2 Bathrooms, Kudos shower enclosures and Calypso bathroom furniture, the range of products on display is second to none with exceptional build quality and value for money being key factors.

Weigh up the additional costs of fitting the Deep Flow gutter against the possible costs incurred by sorting out any damage caused by damp penetration from the overflowing rainwater.

We also display a vast array of wall and floor coverings including tiles and Karndean flooring, and all bathroom accessories which means you can shop

It could well be worth the additional costs to ensure the rainwater is drained away properly. Call Jason of J&S Homeworks on 01953 451169 or 07747 847606 for further information or a free no obligation quote.

under one roof for all your bathroom requirements at great savings. At Supreme Bathrooms we can also undertake all aspects of your installation with our very own bathroom fitters, electricians etc at hand to take care of all work involved including plumbing, tiling electrics etc. This leaves you without the hassle of finding suitable tradesmen and letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Supreme Bathrooms take care of all aspects of your eagerly awaited new bathroom. Have you been thinking of getting that Supreme Bathroom makeover!! Call now for a free home survey!!

“

An interview with...

Linda from Touch Of Class Dresses, Bridesmaid Dresses, Prom and Eveningwear for hire or to buy, we also supply all the accessories. We have an all inclusive Wedding package, of dress, underskirt, Tiara, Veil and free alterations. We will never let two dresses the same go out to the same function.

Above: Linda from Touch Of Class. 1. Have you always lived around the area? I am originally from Bermondsey in South East London, but moved to Norfolk in 2003 looking for a slower pace of life and to spend more time with my family getting away from the rat race that had become London. 2. Tell us a little about what you do? We offer a large selection of Wedding

3. What inspired you to open Touch of Class? The inspiration came from Emma my Daughter after looking just about everywhere for a Prom Dress we called into Touch of Class at Halvergate and got Emma a dress. We were so impressed with the quality and service given we eventually bought the business. 4. What would you say is your most popular items? Currently it’s got to be the Proms as we are rapidly approaching the Prom season,

”

we have large ballgowns right the way through to straight fitting eveningwear, there has not been a major trend so far this season either in dress style or colour. 5. What do you enjoy doing in your spare time? I would love to have some spare time, but after the proms end I will be looking forward to doing some gardening and cycling, spending time with my family, relaxing with a glass of wine. Hopefully a large one! 6. What is your favourite aspect of your job? Getting the reactions from the mum’s when they see their daughters in their Wedding Dresses - normally it’s get the tissues out time.

7. Are there any other services you provide or are looking to provide in the future? We offer free alterations on all our hired dresses, this ranges from taking the dress

up, to alterations on the bust, we have a fantastic seamstress who could make a silk purse out of a sow’s ear. We can also store the Wedding Dresses up to a year in advance, and it will NOT go out. 8. If you could dress someone famous, who would you choose? Well Kate Middleton was going to hire from me but she had a better offer. Seriously, I would like to dress Kim Marsh (Corrie), she always looks good and carries herself well. 9. Is there anything else you would like to tell our readers? We have the largest stock of dresses for hire in East Anglia, we offer a personal service that is second to none. We hold Wedding Dresses to suit any budget. We are also retailers for one of the UK’s best Wedding Couture houses. If you are looking for a Dress for any function, why not give us a call.

Dispatch November 2011 25

www.attleboroughonline.co.uk

ATTLEBOROUGH News

A New Way To Contact Nest Residential Lettings And Management Your Police Beautiful Barns to Let. Clipbush Lane, Scoulton, NR9 - 5 bedroom Barn Conversion - £1000pcm A traditional Norfolk barn of brick and rendered elevations under a pantile roof set in in a sought after rural location in the Norfolk Brecklands. This beautiful 5 bedroom barn boasts a substantial 3296 sq ft of well laid out accommodation and is finished to an exceptionally high specification. Haveringland, NR10 - 4 bedroom Barn Conversion - £1250pcm

Norfolk Constabulary has introduced a new telephone number for people who want to talk to the police about non-urgent issues. If you are interested in viewing either of these beautiful barns please call Nest Residential Lettings and Management on 01603 621180. Nest Lettings are always looking for new properties to let out in order to meet increased demand; and due to their independence are able to dedicate time to providing each property with the attention it requires to secure a quick and successful let. Therefore, if you have a property to let and would like any advice then please contact the team at any time on 01603 621180 or office@letnest.co.uk.

The barn boasts 4 bedrooms and has been sympathetically converted; offering vaulted ceilings and large windows.

26 Dispatch November 2011

The introduction of 101 in Norfolk is part of a nationwide initiative which will see all forces adopting the number by the end of the year. It is designed to offer one easy way to contact your local police force to report non-emergency crimes, disorder or antisocial behaviour or to speak to your local police officers. Assistant Chief Constable Kevin Wilkins said: “Everyone knows to ring 999 in an emergency - but research shows that only half of the public know how to contact their local police if they want to talk to them about less urgent issues.”

Owl Barn is a spacious semi detached Victorian redbrick barn under a traditional pantile roof.

There is also an annex available at an additional cost.

Instead of ringing the current switchboard number of 0845 456 4567, people should dial 101.

Above: Owl Barn.

“The introduction of an easy-toremember, three-digit number should help address this.”

“By the end of the year, people will be able to use 101 to contact their local police force’s non-emergency service, wherever they are in England and Wales.” “It is also hoped that the introduction of 101 will help divert more non-urgent calls away from the 999 system, freeing up call handlers to deal with genuine emergencies.” The new number should be used to report issues which don’t require an emergency response. For example, people should ring 101 if: • Their vehicle has been stolen. • �� Their property has been damaged. • �� They suspect drug use or dealing. • �� If they want to give the police. information about crime in their area • �� If they would like to speak to a local Police Officer.

News from across your region

The Boars Pub & Restaurant The Boars or ‘The Three Boars’ originally stood on a site next door to the current building and dates back to the 17th Century. as ‘The Two Boars’ has changed ownership many times and been let by various breweries. Tony and Ruth Yeoman are now the owners after 15 years of being tenants, and having there children grow up in the village.

A fire in the original pub destroyed much of the original building and for a while The Boars license was moved to the Smithy next door, until a corrugated iron roof was put over the remains of the old house forming a single story building. Trade continued in the old premises until the new Boars opened in 1929, ‘built’ by Mrs Routh Clarke of the Wattlefield estate, and was completed alongside the original building. Its corrugated roof can still be seen next door to the current pub. The Boars which has also been known

The Boars treats its vegetarian options as a key part of its menu. Dedicated meat eaters will always find a vegetarian option to tempt them from the carnivore’s path! The food is a very high quality but not pretentious!

Children are always welcome. The Boars has a dedicated children’s menu and on a Sunday they are especially catered for with a children’s roast dinner with Ice-Cream and a drink for just £7.50. Can’t Wait To See You All There!

All the eating areas are relaxed and informal from our cosy, snug area through to the well designed lounge, to the light and spacious restaurant with patio doors through into the garden. The atmosphere in the restaurant is excellent, whether it’s during the Summer or Winter weather, Day or Night. Each of our rooms has its own atmosphere. Choose the one that suits your sense of style, occasion, or which one meets your mood for the day. The Boars try to make all its food as seasonal and as local as possible. In the winter try our Sticky Toffee pudding with Clarke’s Black Treacle and Ice-Cream.

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Welcome to

LONG STRATTON

Norfolk & Suffolk Power Flushing

Cheshunt Hair Studio City Service â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Country prices.

Any of these symptoms in my advert could indicate that your central heating system had problems from internal corrosion, rust, sludge and scale. A power flush can restore circulation and efficiency to your central heating system by removing these products. The process involves connecting a power flushing pump to the existing central heating pump valves, or across the tails of a radiator. Specialist chemicals are then pumped around the heating system to loosen and mobilise the unwanted debris. Each radiator is then individually flushed until clean and on completion, an inhibitor is added to prevent further corrosion.

The whole process is carried out with minimal disturbance and disruption. For more information on for a free no obligation quote, ring Paul on (01508) 532671 or 07879 414197. Or alternatively go to www.suffolkpowerflushing.co.uk

Above: The staff from Cheshunt Hair Studio at the Wella Academy in London. Heather started Cheshunt Hair Studio with the aim of providing the best hairdressing experience possible - thirteen years on and the Salon is firmly established offering a specialist colouring and cutting service.

Ongoing training is key to the success - only last month the girls attended a course at the Wella Academy in London. With Christmas fast approaching new styles and colours are hitting the magazine pages, so what better time to treat yourself or a loved one? New clients will enjoy a 20% discount with Lia or Louise. Please bring this advert with you. We look forward to seeing you soon. Call 01508 530336 to make an appointment.

28 Dispatch November 2011

News from across your region

Long Stratton Leisure Centre

Moss And Roberts

Is a dual use facility which is used by Long Stratton Middle/High Schools and members of the public.

Well, truth be told, it’s not that easy. Financial markets worldwide are somewhat “nervous” to say the least, so at present it takes a brave Financial Adviser to make firm predictions for clients.

The centre is operated on a pay and play basis with the exception of the gym where a variety of memberships are available. There is a wide range of facilities on offer at Long Stratton Leisure Centre. Sports hall: A four-court sports hall with markings for basketball, badminton and five-a-side football. The sports hall measures 35 metres x 17 metres� ��. Studio/Function room: This room has a semi sprung floor, air conditioning and mirrors for classes. The room measures 14 x 8 metres�� . The Function room is available for hire; please contact reception for more details. Activity room: The activity room can be used for small classes. It’s also an ideal venue for meetings. The room measures 8 x 7 metres�� . The Activity room is available for hire; please contact reception for more details. Two squash courts: The squash courts are open to all and play host to internal leagues. Cycling studio: This air-conditioned studio has 15 Life Fitness Lemonde bikes. The cycling studio is available for hire; please contact reception for more details.

Fitness suit�� e: The Fitness suite has 15 cardio vascular stations, 11 resistance machines and a free weights area. There have been a series of upgrades to all of the equipment. If you want to improve or maintain your fitness levels, then Long Stratton Leisure Centre is the ideal place to go. The centre has a wide range of classes to suit all fitness levels and a gym featuring Life Fitness and Cybex equipment. There is always a qualified instructor available to help you achieve your goals and motivate you in your workout. Long Stratton Leisure Centre’s fitness suite contains: Treadmills, Rowing Machines, Cross Trainers, Cycles, a Stepper, Upper and Lower body resistance machines, Free Weights area. When joining the gym, every new member is given an induction with a qualified gym instructor who will go through a series of health related questions before a tour of the gym. You’ll get a demonstration of the range of equipment, after which you can start to work out.

Someone asked me the other day what I do for a living! I said, rather swiftly, I make my clients financial decisions easy!

Looking back, we started 2011 with the FTSE 100 Index of leading UK stocks standing at around 6000 and the lowest closing point during the year was actually only on the 4th October when it stood at around 4950. So as you can you see if you were brave enough to invest into the FTSE 100 Shares on the 4th October, based on the close of 5466 on the 14th October, you would have increased your investment by just over 10% whereas if you had invested on the 4th January you would currently be looking at a paper loss of just under 9%.” However, in the real world, it’s not like that and you have to look longer term. Indeed, you also need to look beyond the UK, which could then mean more exposure to risk but potentially even greater rewards. You also need to look at different assets - bonds, equities and property.Indeed you could be “forced” to seek alternatives if you need

income from your capital whilst interest rates remain very low. So, here’s the advertising plug! Everyone needs good financial advice, so talk to an independent financial adviser, get and pay for (either by commission or fees) a review of where you are and where you want to be - it does make sense! Financial markets change rapidly, but so do clients’ circumstances. With the advent of the proposed changes imposed by the Retail Distribution Review on our industry almost upon us (31st December 2012), charging adviser fees will be pretty much the “norm”. But, as the saying goes, “there is no such thing as a free lunch!”. If there is, can you tell me where I can get one! There are no certainties in this life except “death and taxes”. Get good impartial financial advice and you may be able to reduce one a bit! Paul Roberts, Moss & Roberts, Willow House, Ipswich Road, Long Stratton, Norwich, NR15 2TA.

Opening times: Monday - Thursday: 7am - 10pm, Friday: 7am - 9pm, Saturday: 9am - 5pm, Sunday: 9am - 1pm. Contact Details: Web: www.south-norfolk.gov.uk/leisure

Changing facilities: The main changing rooms are next to the sports hall, and the schools (Long Stratton Middle & High Schools) can use these during term time. There are changing areas behind the squash courts too, along with facilities for disabled people.

Telephone: 01508 531444 Address: Long Stratton Leisure Centre Swan Lane, Long Stratton Norwich NR15 2UY.

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Focus ON

Harleston & EYE

Jobs Club

Life Is Hectic

Every Wednesday, drop-in 10am - 12pm, everyone welcome.

At the information centre as more services become available.

Over the last 5 weeks we have welcomed 7 new members to the Jobs Club and we have seen an average of 14 members attend the weekly coffee morning.

The information centre, 8 Exchange Street, Harleston has become a hive of activity as more organisations use Harleston Information Plus facilities to offer their services. New organisations at the centre include:

we can help you with job searches, careers advice, CVs, covering letters, application forms, tips and advice for job interviews and much more. Activities in November

Over this period we have helped: • 2 of our members move into voluntary work to gain new skills • 4 members with their CV • 7 receive business start up advice • 6 members receive careers advice • And 10 of our members secure employment A big well done to all of our members who have managed to find employment in these difficult times. If you are searching for employment then why not come along to the Jobs Club where

Norfolk Guidance Service - Tuesday 15 November 10am-3pm. Business Link - Wednesday 23 November 10am - 12pm - LAST CHANCE TO SEE If you would like more information about the Jobs Club and the free services we offer then please contact Lucy Marjoram at the Information Centre Tel: 01379 851920 or email jobsclub@harleston-norfolk.org.uk.

Bereavement Support Group Susan Wymark has recently launched a support group for anyone in the community who feels they need some help following bereavement. Susan has run a very successful group in Eye for some years. The meetings are relaxed and offer an opportunity to meet new faces, find out what practical help is available or simply have a coffee and chat. Meetings are held monthly at the information centre on a Friday evening. Next meeting Friday 4th November at 7.30pm Unite Unite is a new social group based at the centre meeting monthly on Tuesday afternoons. Unite aims to bring people together who, for whatever reason, find themselves feeling isolated. Each month Unite offers a choice of activities for you to attend. Come along and give yourself the opportunity to connect with other people, expand your social links, and create new interests and friendships. Next meeting Tuesday 8th November 2pm The Haven project This project offers support in the community, and housing, for women and their children fleeing domestic abuse. They aim to give women and children the opportunity to enhance their quality of life by providing a safe, secure and comfortable environment with support available to enable them to make choices and

30 Dispatch November 2011

decisions. A support worker from Haven is at the information centre fortnightly, on a Friday morning, next surgery Friday 4th November 10am-midday. Family Carers Surgeries resume Harleston Information Plus is working with Norwich and District Carers Forum to offer regular advice surgeries for family carers at the information centre. For further information please call the centre information desk on 01379 851917 or call in at 8 Exchange Street. There is a Carers Information afternoon at J D Youngs in Harleston on Wednesday 16th November 2-3.30pm. Professionals from a number of carer support organisations will be on hand to offer advice about services and finances available to family carers. There will also be the opportunity to chat to fellow carers and Harleston Information Plus staff over tea and scones. This free event is being organised by Harleston Information Plus as part of their Reaching Communities lottery project. National Bus Passes We are pleased to announce that Harleston Information Plus have gone into partnership with Norfolk County Council so that the information centre can once again process Senior Bus Pass applications. If there is something you would like to see happening at the information centre please contact Community Support Manager Julie Helsby Tel: 01379 851920 email julie.helsby@harlestonnorfolk.org.uk

Book Now... Christmas Is Coming! New Festive Fair Offers Region’s Finest Foods And Gifts This year Elveden Estate will be taking visitors back in time to re-discover the magic of a traditional Christmas. Preparations are underway to create a festive season to remember! With Christmas approaching, the Elveden Festive Fair on 19th November is guaranteed to get everyone in the spirit of Christmas. The fair will be a festive extravaganza of East Anglian food and drink, gifts, crafts, and Christmas themed entertainment. Admission to the Festive Fair is free and it and will be open from 9.30am-5pm. Take a walk through the Christmas hall showcasing the best of local produce and an enchanting array of gifts and craft delights to fill your Christmas stockings. Indulge your senses with the

hand-picked food stalls, offering the very best of local food from a variety of artisan producers. Discover delectable Christmas essentials to suit every taste, from fruit cordials to local salami. Frances Armstrong, marketing manager at Elveden says, “For the discerning shopper, our gift and craft stalls have been selected for quality and originality. Whether you are buying for somebody else or just treating yourself, you are sure to find a unique gift at Elveden’s Festive Fair.” Elveden Estate is the home of local Christmas shopping, with the Elveden lifestyle shops offering a range of

unique and elegant ideas for the home and garden or just presents for the family. Choose from a selection of bespoke homewares, locally produced toiletries, traditional toys and much more. The Elveden food shop offers everything you need to fill your cupboards for Christmas. With many products hand made on the estate as well as a fantastic range of locally sourced fine food and drink. The Elveden shop has everything from an in-house butchery counter, to fresh cheese and even a traditional sweet shop. Frances continues, “If you aren’t full

from all of the delicious samples in the Festive Fair hall then why not try the Elveden Cafe Restaurant or the Courtyard hog roast. Our AA* restaurant offers an exciting range of delicious home-cooked food which is locally sourced wherever possible.” Whether its gift hunting you’re after, a chance to relax and enjoy good food and drink or a fun day out, the Elveden Festive Fair has everything you need for a perfect traditional Christmas. For further information about the Elveden Festive Fair, visit www.elveden.com or call 01842 898068.

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Book Now... Christmas Is Coming! Wetheringsett’s Victorian Christmas Fayre 26th November 2pm-4pm o’clock at Mid Suffolk Light Railway. The event will feature a wide variety of stalls, refreshments and activities for the whole family.

wine, minced pies and hot chestnuts available on the station platform to keep out the cold.

Stall holders and staff will be dressed in Victorian clothes.

There will be a variety of activities for the children to take part in; including a special grotto for writing those important letters to Father Christmas (elves will be on hand to make sure the letter reaches its destination).

There will also be prize for the three children in the best Victorian outfits - visitors should feel free to join in the spirit and do their Victorian Sunday best for the afternoon! The Fayre will include a large selection of gift, craft and food stalls - the perfect chance to pick up some Christmas presents or stocking fillers whilst enjoying the festive atmosphere. The diesel train will be running, with rides along the Middy track and mulled

32 Dispatch November 2011

The Fayre will finish with traditional carols, sung by gas light on the platform at the end of the afternoon. Entry costs £1 for children and concessions, £2.50 for adults, and £6 for a family ticket (including all children). The entry ticket includes unlimited rides on the train.Tickets can be

bought in advance by emailing wetheringsettcommunitytrust@hotmail. co.uk or calling 01449 767 794 / 01449 766 117. The Mid Suffolk Light Railway is located in Wetheringsett just east off the A140, approximately 8 miles north of Stowmarket. A location map for the railway can be found at: www.mslr.org.uk/howto.html.

The event is being jointly organized by Wetheringsett Community Trust (www.wetheringsettcommunitytrust. co.uk registered charity no. 1140490), Wetheringsett Under Fives Pre-School (www.wetheringsettpreschool.org.uk registered charity no. 1027220), the Friends of Wetheringsett Primary School, and All Saints Church, Wetheringsettcum-Brockford (registered charity no.248919).

Health, beauty & wellbeing Camberwell Dental Practice Camberwell Dental Practice - serving the community since 1987. 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.

Slimming World Being A Consultant. Are you kind & empathetic; warm & friendly; motivational & inspirational? Have you got energy, drive & enthusiasm? Do you love working as part of a team? Would you like to earn full time money for part time hours?

from 10am till 12.30pm where everything you need to know will be explained in full detail with absolutely NO obligation whatsoever. Make your world part of Our World - join our amazing team today! ‘The sky really is the limit’

Have you a spare 10 -12 hours per week? If you can answer ‘yes’ to all of these questions we would love to hear from you today!

Further details can be discussed with Karen Gaul, Team Developer by calling either 01379 677119 or 07590 560 953.

We are recruiting new consultants in both the South Norfolk, North Suffolk and South Norwich areas. Our next Opportunity Event for previous and existing members is being held at The Holiday Inn, Ipswich Road, Norwich on Saturday 5th November

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Health, beauty & wellbeing Adkins Opticians Managing Impaired Vision. Approximately 1.8 million of the UK population are visually impaired. About half of these are due to Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD) with glaucoma, diabetes, and cataract along with others accounting for the rest. Therefore, in any locality such as ours, there’s always going to be a surprising number of patients, along with their families affected. Managing impaired vision requires a multi-pronged approach. This can range from optimising vision to support from outside agencies, including social services, charities and support groups. From an Optometric perspective, once vision is assessed and corrected, the aim is to then find adaptations to make everyday life as normal as possible, including reading tasks. Traditionally, this

has been using optical magnifiers. These have served their purpose well, but have limitations due to restricted field of vision and their cumbersome nature. Modern technology has been applied to offer other options. High resolution miniature cameras and powerful processors have brought about the advent of digital magnifiers. These have the advantage of larger fields of view, can be very portable and the user can control the levels of magnification and contrast. Although not expressly designed for the purpose tablet PCs such as the Ipad are showing promise within this field – they are also ideal for browsing the internet, as pages can be navigated and magnified with simple finger gestures. For book lovers, the Amazon Kindle e-book allows text to be enlarged, opening up thousands of book options for those previously

restricted to large print books from the library. Those affected by impaired vision may be interested to know that there is a local talking newspaper - Waveney Words. This can be accessed by contacting Mr Trevor Freeborn on 01379 608774. There is also an AMD support group which meets at the Grassmere Club on Denmark Hill, Diss on the 1st Friday of each month – for details, contact Carolyn Barclay on

01379 643998. The Norfolk & Norwich Association for the Blind (NNAB) runs an equipment and advice centre at Diss Methodist church on Fridays 10:00am until 1:00pm. For a full, thorough visual assessment and to experience some of the latest innovations in visual aids, call Adkins Opticians on 01379 650899 to make an appointment. Impaired vision needn’t mean loss of independence.

Aerobic Exercise May reduce the risk of dementia, researchers say. Any exercise that gets the heart pumping may reduce the risk of dementia and slow the condition’s progression once it starts, reported a Clinic study published this month. Researchers examined the role of aerobic exercise in preserving cognitive abilities and concluded that it should not be overlooked as an important therapy against dementia. The researchers broadly defined exercise as enough aerobic physical activity to raise the heart rate and increase the body’s need for oxygen. Examples include walking, gym workouts and activities at home such as mowing the lawn or raking leaves.

Bone Health Looking after your bones is something all women should be doing, even from a young age, as peak bone mass is reached during your 20s. The earlier you start looking after your bones the better, but it can be a hard task when you’re working long hours, looking after a family etc so your healthy eating and exercise regime falls by the way side. By taking preventative steps, such as including more weight-bearing exercise in your workout routines and follow a diet of calcium-rich foods, you’ll give yourself the best chance of having healthy bones throughout your life. Make sure you include in your diet Magnesium, vitamin D, Zinc, Pumpkin seeds, oily fish, oysters and yes Dark Chocolate. If you would like more information on Exercise Classes, Diet, Personal Training or Gym Membership please don’t hesitate to contact Mick Glynn Fully Qualified and Insured Personal Trainer at MG Fitness Studio, Shelfanger, Diss, Call 07879 455966 or Visit www. mgfitnessstudio.co.uk or www. mickglynn.co.uk The only number you’ll need for a healthier, Fitter, Lifestyle and Body.

34 Dispatch November 2011

“

An interview with...

The Girls From Tate’s Salon

Above: Left to Right Kayleigh, Tate and Nikki You have been in your new salon since June, how is business? Tate: Business is booming, it’s really taken off! I have had to take on new staff to help me as I had to start turning customers away. Kayleigh and Nikki have recently joined you in the Salon, how will this benefit your clients? Tate: Kayleigh will help me out so I can now do reasonable/sociable hours and promote barbering more. Nikki is my new beauty therapist so it will be nice to let my clients have the full pamper they deserve and happier, exciting atmosphere. Do you come from the area? Tate: I have always lived local to Attleborough, I moved here nearly three years ago and have worked in Attleborough for 8 years. Kayleigh: I have lived in Watton for the past 18 years and worked in Attleborough for nearly 5 years. Nikki: No I live in Eye Suffolk, but have worked in Attleborough for approx 8 years, most of which I have spent working with Tate.

”

How long have you been a hairdresser? Kayleigh: I have been Qualified for 6 years.

personality-but seriously, I am very much a people person and being able to give people treatments that make them feel special appealed to me.

How long have you been a beauty therapist? Nikki: I started my 2 year beauty training at Great Yarmouth College in 2000 and qualified in 2002.

What inspired you to become a hairdresser? Kayleigh: I started working in a Salon as a Saturday job and enjoyed working within the trade, with the public and I enjoyed the challenge.

What qualifications do you have? Tate: Hairdressing City & Guilds NVQ 1& 2. Kayleigh: Level 2 & 3 Hairdressing Nikki: NVQ Levels 2& 3 and the international qualification CIDESCO which is recognised worldwide. Have you done any further training? Tate: I am qualified in Paris Hair extensions but recently I can now offer a hair colouring system for men. It only takes 10 minutes and is a good cover up for those stray grey hairs. It matches the colour and blends in the grey. The colour gradually fades as the client washes their hair - therefore can be applied at each cut. Colour and cut £18. Kayleigh: I have done an Affinage Infinite colour training course. Nikki: I have just done training on my new product range ‘Spa Find’. This incorporates Dead Sea minerals and muds with organic plant extracts to create body balancing facials and Spa body treatments. What inspired you to become a beauty therapist? Nikki: As a joke at 6th form my friends suggested that it would be perfect for me, seemingly thinking vanity was part of my

Do you run an appointment system? Tate: I normally start at 9am and work until 8.30pm, only by appointment. If a client requires an earlier appointment I am quite flexible and will accommodate if possible. I must add, my evenings get booked very quickly! Nikki: I work at Tate Hairdressing Thursdays 10am - 8pm and Saturdays 10am - 4pm but I am hoping to add Tuesdays once I get established. To book either call myself, Tate or pop into the Salon. Kayleigh: Either ring me or Tate or pop into the salon for a full consultation. I work Thursdays & Saturdays. What inspired you to become self employed? Kayleigh: I liked the idea of being my own boss and not working to other peoples targets - I feel I can now offer a better service working for myself and this gives me the flexibility of hours to suit clients and my family life. Nikki: I have just returned to work after 9 months maternity leave after having my little boy Riley. I already have a beauty room in Stradbroke, Suffolk and as Tate had her room available it seemed natural to become self employed here in Attleborough.

Do you have any offers on at the moment? Tate: 10% off to all new clients. Kayleigh: Thurdays will be OAP day, the same service but all at a discounted price. For other offers please see advert below. Nikki: I always have special offers on my treatments and these are displayed on the boards outside the Salon. What do you do in your spare time? Tate: At the moment all my spare time is taken up in decorating the Salon. Monday is my only day off and I look after my niece. Kayleigh: I have recently returned to work from maternity leave after having my 2nd child. In my spare time I look after my children Tallalah and Harvey and attending local groups. Nikki: My little boy takes up my spare time - I like to take him swimming and to the local childrens centre. Have you anything to add? Tate: Wednesdays I have a Clairvoyant reader and Spiritual Councillor who also does Reiki and Alternative Healing in my beauty room - Bookings by appointment. Kayleigh: A big Thank you to all my loyal clients who have stayed with me. Nikki: A big Thank you to all my original clients that I have seen since starting at Tates. Where do you see your business in the next year? Tate: I would like the Salon to be completely decorated to my satisfaction Its getting there! I would also like a further 2 stylists and someone to do alternative therapy on the days Nikki isn’t in.

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CARING FOR THE ELDERLY NBR Scooter Brokers

Able Community Care

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

Has been providing live-in care services throughout mainland UK and the Channel Islands since 1980.

Their main objective is to provide impartial advice together with a friendly and efficient service!! They offer the service of a free, no obligation, home demonstration for all of their products to ensure they are suitable for your needs. 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. In addition to mobility scooters, they can also supply the following: • Stairlifts • Powered wheelchairs • Powerchairs • Rise & recline armchairs

36 Dispatch November 2011

• Adjustable beds • Bathlifts • 3 & 4 wheel walkers • Attendant and self propelled wheelchairs Apart from selling, they also offer a hire service, together with repairs, servicing and insurance work. NBR scooter brokers are accredited with Norfolk trusted traders which is organised by Norfolk County Council.

Our clients, who range in age from their early twenties to centenarians, have all chosen to remain living in their own home rather than moving into a residential care home. When we ask our clients why they have chosen to have a live-in care package rather than move into a home where they could also have 24 hour care, we receive comments such as: I can have independence in my own home. I can be spontaneous, if the sun is shining and I fancy being pushed round the park I can go. Having 1:1 care means that no day is the same. When I was more able I could choose how to spend my days. Having live-in care means I can still do that.

My family wanted me to stay in my own home, but they were worried about me on my own in case I fell. Having live-in care in my home eliminates their worries. I look forward to the same carers returning to me on a regular basis. My carers shop for the foods I like and cook them well for me. Able Community Care has provided just under fifty million hours of care and we have been able to help thousands of people and their families. If you would like our information pack or want to find out more about our care provision, please give us a call on 01603 764567 or visit www.uk-care.com.

Brooklyn House Brooklyn House is just one of Caring Homes’ highly acclaimed modern purpose-built care homes. Our dedicated multi-disciplinary team is on call 24-hours a day and pride themselves on the high-quality care they offer. Our key focus is to provide a safe, homely and supported environment based on a positive, person-centred approach. The majority of the rooms have en-suite facilities and all of them have a ‘nurse call’ system and television point. Each en-suite has a shower/wet room which is ideal for people with mobility issues and there are assisted baths throughout the building so everyone can enjoy a choice of bath or shower. Specifically designed to care for elderly residents, Brooklyn House is equipped with every modern facility to ensure high standards of comfort. The landscaped gardens and patio areas are an additional venue for outdoor activities, such as sensory therapy, and are a calm and beautiful place just to relax in. Brooklyn House has a new sun room which enhances the communal accommodation and gives the residents an additional choice for somewhere to spend the day. The home’s central position means it is ideally suited for local amenities and public transport links. We pride ourselves on our ability to provide superior palliative care, offering 24-hour care to residents with serious illnesses to relieve their suffering and improve their quality of life, giving comfort to them and their families. Every resident is given a comprehensive, individual care plan, whether they are staying for a period of convalescence or are permanent residents.

We place a high emphasis on dining at Brooklyn House, serving traditional cooking and offering a varied choice at every meal. Our fully qualified chef carefully plans the menus to make sure all the meals are nutritionally balanced. We are very happy to cater for special diets and individual preferences and, as well as breakfast, lunch and supper, hot and cold drinks and a range of snacks are available throughout the day. Brooklyn House’s dedicated Activities Co-ordinator ensures there is always something going on so residents can enjoy a full and interesting lifestyle and continue with their hobbies. Our active residents’ and relatives’ committee plays a key part in helping to develop new ideas and suggestions as to how Brooklyn House is run and the type of services available. Residents can also take advantage of the home’s close links to various local groups. For more information, to request a brochure or to arrange a visit, please contact Brooklyn House on 0808 166 1347 or visit the website at www.caringhomes.org

part of the caring homes group

We also welcome visitors for a short respite, to simply enjoy a break or holiday at Brooklyn House.

Dispatch November 2011 37

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CARING FOR THE ELDERLY New Forum Will Give Older People A Stronger Voice One in six of the UK population is over 65 years, but many older people believe they are under-represented when important decisions are made affecting their lives. A new Forum that will give older people a stronger voice was launched in Dereham on 5th October. Although the ‘Breckland Older Person’s Forum’ will be for people aged over 50 years living in and around the district, the launch event is also open to anyone with an interest in older people’s issues. Lynda Turner, Breckland Council Executive Member for Localism, Community and Environmental Services said: “We encouraged a whole range of individuals and organisations to come along to the launch event to share their knowledge and experience with others and to find out more about the Forum. With the current climate of cut backs

38 Dispatch November 2011

and increased redundancies, especially amongst older folk, and the increased necessity for care in the home topics addressed by the Forum will be relevant to all. This includes those who may already care for others or who, looking ahead, need to plan for themselves or others. The Forum as a voice for all will help ensure that a variety of issues, however great or small, are listened to and taken to the appropriate authorities, including government”. A number of local speakers, well known for championing the cause of older people, helped get the Forum off to an inspirational start.

Emily Millington Smith, Chair of Norfolk Older People’s Forum has been instrumental in the foundation of similar forums, and spoke of her experiences.

constitution and, following the launch, the new organisation will become an independent body run by its members with an AGM held in the new year.

Other speakers included Annie Mosely from Age UK, Lynda Turner Breckland Council Executive Member and Older People’s Champion and James Bullian, Norfolk County Council Assistant Director of Prevention (Community Services).

It is hoped that the Forum launch will create a network of people in similar circumstances who will support each other and every member in different ways.

The launch meeting was organised by Breckland Council who will help to facilitate this independent Forum going forwards. A Shadow Committee was identified at the 5th October meeting to establish a

The Council will continue to support the Forum as it becomes established.

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Car Fraud When considering car fraud, did you know about a third of stolen cars are never recovered and some end up being sold to an unsuspecting buyer? In addition, every year thousands of dangerous cars are patched up after an accident and resold. Bearing this in mind, anyone thinking about buying a used car should thoroughly check the vehicle’s history before handing over any money. If you buy a car and it is later found to be stolen, the police have the right to take it away from you. In theory, you are entitled

to demand a full refund from the person who sold you the car, but this could prove difficult. You may not be able to trace the seller and, even if you do, they may not be worth taking to court. If the car’s previous owner still owes money on it, the question of whether you or the finance company owns the car is debatable. If you knew about the

outstanding credit when you bought the car, then the car still belongs to the finance company. If you did not know, then you are the rightful owner. When you are thinking about buying a second hand car, the golden rule is that you must always check the car’s history before you buy. If you do this you should avoid any unforeseen problems with ownership.

Dispatch November 2011 43