Issue 181 October 2016
GREAT PLACES GREAT PEOPLE GREAT MOTORS GREAT LIVING
DISS & ATTLEBOROUGH
www.monstersltd.co.uk
Call 01379 641400 Open 7 days a Week
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Issue 181 October
BRECKLAND HOMECLEAN
2016
DOMESTIC CLEANING SERVICE We provide the following services: Regular Weekly or Fortnightly Cleans Home Shopping • Preparation of Light Meals Laundry Service • Gardening
Telephone: 01953 458447 www.brecklandhomeclean.co.uk Email: quality@brecklandhomeclean.co.uk Find us at: Queens House, Queens Square Attleborough, Norfolk, NR17 2AE
GREAT PLACES GREAT PEO
PLE
GREAT MOT
ORS
GREAT LIVIN
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DIS S & AT TL EB OR
OU GH
Issue 181
Your community magazine Dispatch Magazine would like to thank all those who have contributed to this issue.
Editor
Jonathan Horswell @JonathanHorswel
Administration Luke Keable
for Permanent & Temporary Recruitment
Sales
Arron Self
Quality People continue to provide a recruitment service for the towns of Attleborough, Dereham, Diss, Thetford, Watton & Wymondham plus the
Sales
Jon Cooper
surrounding areas throughout Breckland & South Norfolk.
www.quality-people.co.uk Telephone: 0195 3 4 5 3 6 4 4 Email: results@quality-people.co.uk Find us at: Queens House, Queens Square, Attleborough, Norfolk, NR17 2AE
Sales
Brenda Pepper
DispatchMag @Dispatch_Mag Tel 01953 456789 Web www.DispatchMagazine.co.uk Address Queens House, Queens Square, Attleborough, Norfolk, NR17 2AE.
© Dispatch Magazine Disclaimer: No part of this magazine may be reproduced or used in any form or by any means, either wholly or in part, without the prior written permission of the Publisher. The views expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of the Publisher. Every effort is taken to ensure that the contents of this magazine are accurate, but the Publisher can not assume any responsibility for errors or omissions. Whilst reasonable care is taken when accepting advertisements the Publisher will not accept any resulting unsatisfactory transactions. They will, however, immediately investigate any written complaints. The Publishers reserve the right to amend such submissions and cannot accept responsibility for any loss.
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DISS
EAST ANGLIAN CHILDRENS HOSPICE
Local ar tist creates special Christmas cards for EACH nternationally-renowned artist, illustrator and designer Lucy Loveheart has created two exclusive Christmas card designs in aid of East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH).
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The beautiful cards by Norfolk based artist Lucy, depict an angel flying in harmony with
Lucy is one of the region’s top ar tists and her products, focusing on childhood memories and the world of make-believe, are highly sought after.
After a tour of the charity’s Quidenham hospice last summer, Lucy was in no doubt that EACH was a cause wor th backing.
EACH cares for children and young people with life-threatening conditions across East Anglia and suppor ts their
She said: “I felt really, genuinely moved and inspired by my trip to Quidenham. It was the atmosphere, the care and the love that seemed to be pouring into it.”
“ I felt really, genuinely moved and inspired by my trip to Quidenham. It was the atmosphere, the care and the love that seemed to be pouring into it.” butterflies and a snow-filled scene of joy. The two designs join a range of other festive designs to make up this year’s EACH card selection, which are available to buy now. www.DispatchMagazine.co.uk
families. All the money raised through card sales will go towards providing these vital ser vices to local families at a time when they need it most.
EACH Christmas card are available to buy now in packs of 10, with prices star ting at £3.25. You can pick up your cards online at www.each.org.uk/online-store, at the EACH eBay store or at your local EACH shop. EACH has 21 shops across East Anglia including outlets in Norwich on Aylsham and Unthank Road, Wymondham, Swaffham, Holt, Diss and Downham Market. Diss & Attleborough | 05
DISS
DISS MUSEUM
By Basil Abbott
Last month I wrote about Black Histor y connections to the Diss area. Since then I have found out more about a couple who made headlines over 60 years ago.
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Due for release next month is a film about a romance and marriage that caused great consternation in the post-war establishment and threatened to rock the empire. Entitled A United Kingdom the film tells the stor y of a mixedrace marriage that overcame the prejudice that was rife at the time. Seretse Khama was the black tribal chiefdesignate of the British Protectorate of Bechuanaland, now Botswana. English girl Ruth Williams was a clerk and the daughter of a retired Indian Army officer. He was Oxford educated and trained for the Bar. They met at a dinner dance in 1947 and there was an instant mutual attraction. But the proverbial hit the fan both here and in Africa. Families, governments and the public on both sides were up in arms about a mixed-race marriage. The couple had to live in England for a time because they were not allowed to be in Africa together. Ruth had abuse hurled at her in the streets. Eventually, anti-apar theid feelings and the couple’s love for each other prevailed and they were able to go
Image Above: Ruth Williams and Seretse Khama featured in the Daily Mail in 2006 back. Seretse Khama would become a knight and President of Botswana. I knew that the couple had connections with the Diss area, so I put a letter in the local newspapers and had several responses. Ann Ward and Rosemar y Batchelor both verified that the couple were at a fete at the Manor House, probably
in 1955. I was there, as a tiny boy, and remember my mother mentioning them. Maurice King was manager at Chitty’s garage and recalls them coming in for a hire car. He noted how shiny black Seretse was compared to the ver y pale Ruth. Maurice’s wife Pat remembers the couple shopping in Diss. Jean Sullivan recalls a limousine drawing up in Mere Street for a ver y smar t, slim lady and gentleman to exit. Barbara Spurling told me that the couple used to stay in Winfar thing with Ben and Penelope Wood, Mrs. Wood being headmistress of the village school. Marian Williams told me that Ruth was Mrs. Wood’s niece. Isabel Bur ton met Ruth as a girl and was a lifelong friend. After the Manor House fete there was dancing under lights, she said, and all you could see of the dark-skinned Seretse was a white suit. Isabel let me copy cuttings and pictures for a museum display. Find out more about Diss Museum by visiting our website: www.dissmuseum.co.uk Image Left: Ruth Williams and Seretse Khama featured in the Daily Express, 2002
06 | Diss & Attleborough
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Norwich manager Lee Rixon believes that Which? have endorsed Cloudy2Clear’s long standing company policy of delivering a trustworthy and credible service at all times. ‘Our service is simple. If your double glazing has steamed up we can replace the glass at a fraction of the cost of a new window, in any type
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Which? has endorsed our philosophy. Locally Cloudy2Clear service Diss & Attleborough and surrounding areas. So, if your windows are steamed up, broken or damaged give Lee a call for a free quotation on 0800 61 21 118 and he’ll be happy to help!
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Diss & Attleborough | 07
DISS
SOUND SLEEP
The National Bed Federation Awards very September the National Bed Federation Awards take place at the Telford International Centre. These awards are designed to reward hard working retailers and manufacturers in the Bed Industry. To win an award you have to demonstrate how you as a business have been a leader in your category and what you steps you have taken in doing so.
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from up and down the UK, quite frankly we are immensely proud of our achievement. Sound Sleep don’t operate like your average bed retailer. Our Dream Team, made up of three family members, Andrew alongside his mother and sister, Trish and Amie, are mattress specialists. We are specialists due to the fact we have spent
“ In the category of Bed Retailer of the Year, Sound Sleep won the runner up award, missing the top spot by just one vote. ”
In the category of Bed Retailer of the Year, Sound Sleep won the runner up award, missing the top spot by just one vote. As a business, Sound Sleep are very involved within the industry, managing director Andrew Bright sits on the prestigious Sleep Council’s Retailer Panel, a panel of 15 retailers from across the UK and Ireland that meet to work on marketing techniques and benefits that retailers can bring to their own customers. Then to add an award in the Bed Retailer of the Year category, which is the category that has the most entries 08 | Diss & Attleborough
years designing and manufacturing our own mattresses, so we have the knowledge of what different products inside mattresses can do for you and how they can benefit your sleep. We also pride ourselves in the way we advise our customers. We are here to advise and help you choose the right bed for you, come in and chat to us, we are very relaxed and you cer tainly will not be followed around or hassled in our store. If you want to just look, then feel free to do so. Just remember, with over 100 beds on display some guidance will most
likely benefit you. We are not working on commission so we are not trying to sell you additional warranties and products that you don’t need. Our products are all made by National Bed Federation approved manufacturers. NBF members are audited and their products are tested to ensure that they are clean, safe and honest. This means that any NBF approved bed or mattress in manufactured using brand new, clean fillings, all mattresses are tested to the correct fire safety regulations and the honest par t is that all products are exactly what the label says they are. By choosing to sell only NBF Approved products, we protect our customers so when they are buying a new bed or mattress from Sound Sleep they know that it is exactly what it says it is. When your bed or mattress is 7 or more years old, make sure your first stop is Sound Sleep. Stockists of leading brands Rest Assured, Sealy, Hilary Devey by Duvalay, Myers, Slumberland and don’t forget we are Norfolk & Suffolk’s only Silentnight Sleep Centre offering the exclusive Platinum Collection. Sound Sleep. Your award winning Dream Team.
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Sound Sleep
DISS
LTD
voted
KING
BEST
for the price of a DOUBLE
MID PRICE MATTRESS
When buying any Silentnight Mirapocket mattress or divan bed
SLEEP CENTRE NOW OPEN IN STORE www.soundsleepbeds.co.uk 0% Interest Free Credit - Credit & Debit Cards Accepted Free Local Delivery - Old Bed Disposal Service Mile Road - Winfarthing - Near Diss - IP22 2EZ For mattress advice or information call us on 01953 861177 find us on the main B1077 between Diss & Attleborough between Diss & Attleborough Look out for the bright yellow signs
Showroom Opening Hours Monday - Friday 9:00 - 5:00 Saturday 10:00 - 4:00 Sunday 10:00 - 1:00
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AWARD WINNING Diss & Attleborough | 09 Sound Sleep Dream Team
DISS
JACKAMANS SOLICITORS
The Split
he BBC has announced that it is going to screen a contemporary new series entitled “The Split” which will be set in London as “the divorce capital of the world”.
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The series will deal with “scandalous affairs and big-figure settlements”. The creative producer and founder of Sister Pictures, Jane Featherstone commented, “The Split will be an emotional and entertaining exploration of love, marriage and divorce.” Charlotte Moore, Director of BBC Content, remarked that the series “will invite BBC1 viewers into an entertaining new world.” While I look forward to watching the series, no doubt muttering to myself about the divergence between exciting scenarios depicted in the series and the reality of working life as a family lawyer, I can’t help but feel some misgivings. The ending of a marriage, and the emotional issues that arise, are far from entertaining for the couple and any children involved. Regrettably, any drama series about the law often creates unrealistic expectations in one’s clients of
acrimonious courtroom scenes, private investigators uncovering the dirt or highly charged confrontations between clients and lawyers. The reality is a largely deskbound daily routine, comprising meetings, telephone calls, analysing paperwork, and drafting letters and documents. Most family lawyers are members of Resolution, an organisation committed to resolving family disputes constructively by a non-confrontational approach – hardly the stuff of high drama! In practice the vast majority of divorces are uncontested and there is no public hearing where dirty linen is aired, and parents can agree the arrangements for their children. Cases involving domestic abuse are a sad exception. Similarly most financial disputes are resolved without a formal cour t hearing, by a Consent Order. Only papers are filed at cour t and there is no need for any hearings. This achieved through a variety of means including negotiations between solicitors, mediation, joint meetings between solicitors, either as par t of the negotiating process, mediation or the collaborative law approach.
Over the 10 years that I have been practising family law, there has been a move away from overt acrimony and aggression in favour of settling the financial issues, arrangements for the children and the divorce itself. Since the Matrimonial Causes Act 1973 was enacted, although the divorce rate has increased, more and more couples are aware of the emotional and financial fallout from hotly contested divorces, children disputes or financial issues. Counselling and mediation services supplement legal advice where appropriate, and can help the divorcing couple to come to terms with their new reality. I hope the series will not encourage the view of solicitors and barristers as “costs running” vultures. The fact of the matter is that the lawyers involved can only do so much work, in the time available, and have a number of clients to deal with. There is no merit in running a case in a confrontational fashion. Solicitors, particularly those who are members of Resolution, do want to resolve matters with the minimum of acrimony. Courts are critical where costs are incurred
Our expert team of lawyers is here to help • Accident Claims • Clinical Negligence • Commercial
• Family • Landlord and Tenant • Powers of Attorney
• Debt Recovery • Dispute Resolution • Employment
• Property • Wills, Trusts & Probate
Ipswich 01473 255591 Diss 01379 643555
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needlessly, and if the court takes the view that either one or other party has been acting unreasonably in the litigation, will possibly make an order that one side or other bear the costs, although this is not frequent. Clearly in any marriage breakdown there are emotional issues, but defended divorces are to be discouraged as a dissipation of the family’s assets on unnecessary legal costs. The less money that is spent on legal fees, the more is available for the family to re-settle itself, on the break up of the marriage. So enjoy watching “The Split” but remember that it is a drama series not a documentary, and that the actual working day practice of most solicitors will be very different from that shown in a drama series. Whatever you do, don’t come to your lawyer, if you are divorcing, expecting your case to represent the online drama that you have watched.
Powers of Attorney, Wills, Trusts & Probate personal attention guaranteed
For further information please contact Claire Kean at: claire.kean@jackamans.co.uk or call 01379 643555. This article provides only a general summary and is not intended to be comprehensive. Special legal advice should be taken in individual situations.
By Claire Kean
Free Survey and Quotations Tel: 01953 459778 Owl Barn, Norwich Road, Besthorpe, Attleborough, Norfolk NR17 2LA
Ipswich 01473 255591 Diss 01379 643555
Felixstowe 01394 279636 Harleston 01379 854455 www.jackamans.co.uk
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Diss & Attleborough | 11
ATTLEBOROUGH
ALMARY GREEN
Tackling the Investment Maze or those who have accumulated substantial pension entitlements or savings, it is impor tant to ensure that you understand the tax framework that will come into play when you come to access your pension. Mark Ring explains the rules.
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Pension schemes are a tax-efficient way of building your retirement fund: the Government will add tax relief to your contributions and the return on your pension investments is largely free of tax, throughout its time in your pension pot. High earners in par ticular will hopefully be getting advice from a financial adviser about making the best use of pensions to enable you to achieve your objectives. Your adviser will build a financial plan that maps out what you need to do now to ensure you have invested enough to attain the standard of living you desire in your later years. Having too large a pension pot may seem an unlikely scenario, but there are tax
implications to consider if your pension savings or entitlements exceed the Lifetime Allowance for Pensions (LTA). This currently stands at £1 million – a figure that might seem unattainable for many but is, in fact, not out of reach for anyone with a significant pension savings or entitlements histor y. The LTA figure has, in fact, been decreasing over the years since its peak of £1.8 million in 2011/12 and most recently dropped from £1.25 million to £1 million in April 2016. If you are a member of a public sector or large company scheme (a ‘defined benefit’ scheme) where the level of pension payable is dependent on your income and years of ser vice rather than on contributions, the value of your pension fund is assessed on the basis of a multiple of your pension income. You may be accumulating substantial pension entitlements if you have a high salar y and/or long ser vice. To check how your pension value will be calculated, contact your pension scheme administrator or speak to a financial adviser.
If your pension fund is wor th more than the LTA when you “cr ystallise” your fund (ie star t taking benefits), then the excess will be subject to a tax charge. The rate of tax you’ll pay will depend on how you take your pension excess: if you take it as a lump sum, you will be subject to an LTA tax charge of 55 per cent, and if you take it as income, the LTA tax charge will be 25 per cent. Your fund may be subject to a fur ther LTA test when you reach age 75, depending on what sor t of pension arrangement you have in place at that time. There are planning measures that can be taken in cer tain circumstances to protect yourself against a future tax charge, but these are time sensitive, so do get early advice if you are affected. It’s wor th remembering that the LTA tax charge is an additional tax to be paid: any pension benefits you take other than your tax free lump sum entitlement will also be subject to income tax assessment at your normal rate.
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SHERBOURNE HOUSE
P n reer C h BO M r en is O tm K u N av as O ai W la ! bl e
in
CELEBRATE NEW YEARS WITH US! £25 per person which includes Hot Roast Style Rolls, nibbles & a glass of Prosecco at midnight with Music From Martin Broom Over 25’s—Ticket only, Doors 8pm
Tickets are limited so reserve now! from Leighs Barbers or online at www.sherbourne-house.co.uk
T: 01953 454 363 | E: stay@sherbourne-house.co.uk 8 Norwich Road, Attleborough, Norfolk NR17 2JK
12 | Diss & Attleborough
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ATTLEBOROUGH
The rules around the LTA tax charge are complex and the information here is just a snapshot of some of the issues: if you think your pension savings have the potential to grow beyond the LTA, please talk to an adviser about your specific circumstances. Clearly it will be in your interest to plan carefully to prevent incurring an LTA charge liability. Advice is key to ensuring that you understand the potential value of your pension pot on retirement and that you take action where appropriate to limit its growth. The tax treatment of savings and investments depends on individual circumstances and is subject to change. To discuss any aspect of your financial well-being, contact Mark at mark.ring@almar ygreen.com or call 01603 706740. Mark is happy to arrange appointments in our Norwich offices, at the offices of M+A Par tners, Cyprus Close, Attleborough, or in clients’ own homes.
By Alison Rudd,
Award Winning Landscaping and Design
Paving and Pathways Ponds and Water Features Lawn Laying Walls and Brickwork Timber and Decking Driveways, Fencing and Screening Garden Design by Georgina Read
T: 01953 852139 E: info@lifestylelandscaping.co.uk W: www.lifestylelandscaping.co.uk
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Diss & Attleborough | 13
ATTLEBOROUGH
PLANNING FOR THE NEXT GENERATION
Plandescil Ltd Consulting Engineers, Attleborough, becomes employee owned. aunched in 1979 and still showing strong signs of growth, the Directors at Plandescil have taken steps to ensure the company continues and remains in safe hands for many years to come.
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Utilising the “John Lewis” business model of an employee owned company, the existing shareholders Julian, Sara and Simon Riley have created a trust, for the benefit of all the employees, which now owns the shares in Plandescil Ltd. This type of succession planning works well as the current directors will, in the years ahead, look to pass over responsibility for the day to day running of the company to trusted staff, whilst managing through their exit from the business. Plandescil currently employs 38 staff from its offices in Attleborough, the majority of which have been with the business for many years and through the internal culture this has created an extended successful family business unit.
Profit has never been the sole aim of the company. Success has come through customer relationship management and nurturing staff. It is hoped that the new structure will enable the company to progress along similar lines to the past, slowly growing, maintaining customer relationships with honesty and integrity, whilst providing interesting and challenging work to employees in a family environment. Ownership of the company has now moved to the employees with all the shares held in trust and for the benefit of the staff. This is a modern business model built along the lines of John Lewis. Plandescil Ltd joins other more famous large consulting engineers such as Arup and Mott McDonald which are both employee owned companies. Such structures are encouraged by the government with tax incentives allowing employees to be paid tax free bonuses. Plandescil are lucky to have a loyal workforce with many working their way up from junior positions. The company
norwich
has always had a strong emphasis on training young people and long before the governments push to encourage apprenticeships, as seen in recent years. Several of the staff have progressed through an education in civil engineering through HNCs to Masters Degrees and on to professional recognition including Incorporated and Chartered Status. Currently there are seven staff undertaking apprenticeship courses and others studying for higher level qualifications. As part of Plandescil’s succession planning six new directors have been appointed. Carl Jenkins started at Plandescil after his A levels and has been with the company for 25 years. He is a Chartered Civil Engineering Surveyor (ICES) and a Member of Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) and the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE). Carl has become our Director responsible for Surveying. Matthew Hare also joined Plandescil after taking his A levels and went on to study for
in store & online
Blinds of all kinds and curtains too! Telephone 01953 544014 or visit norwichsunblinds.co.uk 14 | Diss & Attleborough
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ATTLEBOROUGH
a HND followed by a degree, and is now an Incorporated Engineer with the Institution of Mechanical Engineers and EngTech member of the ICE. Matt specialises in Drainage and Infrastructure design and will become the Director responsible for this aspect of this type of work. Ashley Briggs was taken on to work his gap year at Plandescil and after taking his A levels before going to Loughborough University to study Civil Engineering. He spent every university holiday with Plandescil determined to establish his career at Plandescil post studying. Ashley graduated with a first class Master’s Degree in Civil Engineering. Ashley will be the Director responsible for the Structural Engineering in the office. Oliver Jones, at 28, is the youngest of the new Directors. Again Oliver started at the company after his A levels and worked whilst studying for an HND and then a degree. As well as EngTech ICE he is now an Incorporated Engineer Member of the Institution of Engineering and Technology
(MIET). Oliver specialises in managing large projects especially in the renewable energy sector and is an exper t in anaerobic digestion plants. Oliver is to take the role of Director responsible for Projects.
scale Civil Engineering projects. Julian and Simon Riley will continue as Senior Directors of Plandescil whilst gradually taking time out to pursue other interests.
Sally Hare joined Plandescil after studying Environmental Ear th Sciences at the UEA. Sally heads up the Environmental Team undertaking Flood Risk Assessments, Contaminated Land Assessments, Coordinating Environmental Impact Assessment and all things related to environmental and water engineering.
Sara Riley will also continue in her role as Finance Director for the foreseeable future. Roderic Riley, the founder, has stepped down from his role as a Director.
Sally is a Char tered Scientist, Member of the Institution of Environmental Scientists (MIEnvSc), and the Char tered Institution of Water and Environmental Management (CIWEM). Sally becomes the Director in charge of Environmental matters. Richard Simmons joined Plandescil after two years’ post graduate experience with another firm of consulting engineers. Richard has become the Civil Engineering Director working on large and small
The new set up has already seen changes with the introduction of a refreshed company logo. The new brand look was created within the new team and signed off in agreement across the total management team. A new website will follow shor tly. Three directors have been appointed to the board of Trustees, Sally Hare, Nigel Gates and Andrew Harrison with an election to be held in due course to appoint an employee representative.
cost effective engineering solutions solutions cost effective engineering cost effective engineering solutions Plandescil Ltd Plandescil Connaught RoadLtd Plandescil Ltd Connaught Road Attleborough Connaught Road Norfolk NR17 2BW Attleborough Attleborough Norfolk2BW NR17 2BW Norfolk NR17 t: 01953 452001 e: pdc@plandscil.co.uk 452001 t: 01953 452001 t: 01953 plandescil.co.uk e: pdc@plandscil.co.uk e: pdc@plandscil.co.uk plandescil.co.uk plandescil.co.uk
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Diss & Attleborough | 15
ATTLEBOROUGH
VINNIES GYM AND EXERCISE CENTRE LTD
Breckland Council Approve Development new facility in Attleborough able to deliver not only gym based sessions but a variety of classes: bokwa, spinning, circuits, pilates, bootcamp, boxercise and many more classes.
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Our class timetable is extremely popular and caters for a wide range of clients. We have a wide range of cardiovascular machines, concept 2 rowing machines, treadmills, cross trainers, recumbent bikes, stationary upright bikes and spinning bikes. Resistance weight machines and free weights also form a large part of the gym allowing for a wide variety of strength training programmes to be followed. The fully equipped studio space allows for a variety of classes to be delivered but also offers a nice space to train when classes are not running. The gym and studio space are fully airconditioned helping create a positive training environment. We have a range of staff from personal trainers to gym
instructors along with a variety of studio class instructors. The cafe area is available for refreshments before and after training. There is also a range of dietary supplements to help with training. Alongside the café is the gym shop where we sell gym clothing, gloves, towels and other accessories. A new fully equipped therapy room allows for onsite spor ts therapists to work with gym members and external clients. The gym is accessible for all with facility to allow physically challenged athletes the opportunity to access shower and changing areas. There are dry and wet changing areas to accommodate all requirements. So if you only want somewhere to drop a bag and train you can or if you want to pamper yourself after training this can also happen in the wet changing areas. Individual programmes are written for all members if required ensuring everyone is able to reach their full potential. We have created an
environment where ‘Training For All’ is the focus a real family orientated atmosphere. We offer a range of memberships to meet all individual needs from non-member prices, sessional, monthly and yearly. So pop in or contact us on the details below. 31-33 Maurice Gaymer Road, Attleborough, Norfolk, NR17 2QZ Telephone: 01953 453049 Email: vinniesgym@gmail.com Opening times: 7am-9:30pm Monday to Thursday 7am-9pm Fridays 8am-4pm Saturdays 8am-3pm Sundays
31-33 Maurice Gaymer Road, Attleborough, Norfolk, NR17 2QZ
A new modern training facility for all ages, a range of classes available, resident therapists, supplements and much more.
n Ope idays l o kH Ban Too!
Call Us : 01953 453 049
16 | Diss & Attleborough
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WANT TO FIND OUT MORE?
COME TO ONE OF OUR OPEN EVENING EVENTS:
ATTLEBOROUGH ACADEMY NORFOLK CELEBRATING BEST EVER GCSE RESULTS 2016
MAIN ACADEMY OPEN EVENING WEDNESDAY 12 OCTOBER 2016 19:00 TO 21:30
GROWTH OF AN ACADEMY Attleborough Academy Norfolk is an inclusive, friendly and effective learning community with high aspirations and a reputation for innovation. Excellent relationships between students and staff are at the heart of the Academy and are often commented on by our visitors. The Academy is a hardworking and caring community of people with high standards, high expectations and strong core values. Our core values use the word CARE as an acronym. These are: Commitment to continued improvement Acknowledgement of efforts and achievement Respect for others and the environment Excellence in all we do
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CARE therefore has a genuine meaning within our community as we want the Academy to be a place where these values are seen in all aspects of our work together. The next few years will indeed be an exciting time at Attleborough Academy Norfolk. In March 2015, we were successful in obtaining funding for a new building which will be the first in the published Norfolk County Council’s Master Plan for the growth of the Academy. Attleborough Academy Norfolk were one of only five schools in the County and also one of only 277 schools nationwide to have been chosen to receive a portion of the ring-fenced £2 billion available from the Government funded ‘Priority School Building Programme’.
We were recently nationally recognised for our exceptional 2015 performance by the Schools, Students and Teachers network (SSAT). Educational Outcomes data analysis from the SSAT has shown that the Academy is in the top 20% nationally for progress made by pupils between their Key Stage 2 results at primary school and their Key Stage 4 results. We are also one of only five schools in the country who were shortlisted for the Outstanding Progress - Secondary School Award in the national 2016 Education Business Awards.
ATTLEBOROUGH ACADEMY SIXTH FORM
SIXTH FORM OPEN EVENING WEDNESDAY 19 OCTOBER 2016 19:00 TO 21:30 part of the
We offer transport from a wide area to the Attleborough Sixth Form which includes the catchment areas of Old Buckenham High School and Wayland Academy Norfolk. To find out more please visit our website www.aan.norfolk.sch.uk
Diss & Attleborough | 17
ATTLEBOROUGH
PATTERSON DESIGN
Thanks to Kate Grant
ate Grant has been painting watercolours for over 20 years. Her main love is the ocean and children’s por traits. Her paintings of Florida seascapes were promoted with an amazing 8 year collaboration with Stellers Gallery, Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida USA www.stellersgallery.com
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Kate trained as a doctor in Scotland, spending some time in anatomy sketching the anatomy specimens, and later taking life drawing classes, in Scotland, The Mall Galleries London with Mick Kirkbride, and Glassell School of Ar t, Houston Texas.
Now back in Norfolk, Kate has recently been spotted painting in wellies next to fields full of sheep near Thetford, on The Wyatt’s farm in Shropham with the pedigree dairy herd, and the piggies at Wretham. So her current series is all about the love of Norfolk life, rain or shine and how funny animals are, especially pheasants. Kate exhibited her work at Patterson Design, Attleborough, from the 23-25th Sept and 30th Sept to 2nd October 2016. kate@katewatercolours.com www.katewatercolours.com Instagram @katewatercolours
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Patterson DESIGN RIBA CHARTERED ARCHITECTS
PattersonDESIGN is an RIBA Chartered Architectural Practice based in Norfolk with local, regional and national coverage. Our clients are our first and foremost concern. We believe that each project, regardless of its size, should be designed maintaining our high level of service and skill. We have specialised staff and resources to ensure that every project receives the right level of expertise throughout the project.
Tel: 01953 456 722 Suva House Queens Square, Queen’s Square, Attleborough, Norfolk NR17 2AE, UK
18 | Diss & Attleborough
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ATTLEBOROUGH
Loving By Giving, Tanzania Tanzania is a beautiful countr y and home to the dormant volcano that is Mount Kilimanjaro, with its three volcanic cones; ‘Kibo’, ‘Mawenzi’, and ‘Shira’. It is the highest mountain in Africa, and rises approximately 4,900 m from its base to 5,895 metres above sea level. Tanzania is home to more than 120 different tribes, most of them belonging to the big Bantu family. The fierce Maasai are Nilotic people and the Hadzabe tribe, living along the remote shores of Lake Eyasi, is related to the South African bushmen.
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However, the need in Tanzania is also great, as many people live with little or no basic resources, which we often take for granted in the developed world. At the end of last year LOVING BY GIVING, a UK based registered charity, sent a small exploration team to nor thern Tanzania to explore how they could make a difference to the lives of the people living in this area. The team consisted of Dr Jaco Beukes as the Chief
Operations Officer for Loving by Giving and Mr Marck Funchal as a trustee and Managing Director for Patterson Design ltd. They were struck by the level of pover ty and the need for clean drinking water, food and stationer y for schools. In response to this need, LOVING BY GIVING has put together a team of 11 people, with Patterson Design Ltd as one of their principal sponsors, to go to Tanzania at the end of October. Both Dr Beukes and Mr Funchal will head an intensive program of work for this expedition so as to achieve as much as possible in the available time. This team will install water har vesting systems at a rural Maasai school, as well as at a training centre for future leaders. In addition, they will be involved with distributing maize meal, shoes and educational resources. Mr Funchal said “This is an extraordinar y oppor tunity to reach out and make a difference. Living in the United Kingdom we often don’t appreciate how modern comfor ts and
technology improve our lives for the better. In most cases these are minimum UK standards and not just for luxur y. When you have no heating in the winter and are living in-between five sheets of metal and having to walk potentially 10-15 kilometres for river water, then suddenly minimum UK standards are a life changing luxur y. I believe that here at Patterson Design Ltd, we too have a duty to make a difference wherever possible, and by suppor ting Loving By Giving, we hope to do this”.
If you would like to contribute to the work this team will be doing to change the lives of people in need, please visit: https://www.justgiving.com/lovingbygiving
Above: Far right` MD for Patterson Design Marck Funchal, Then Dr Jaco Beukes. November 15 exploration trip. www.DispatchMagazine.co.uk
Diss & Attleborough | 19
GENERAL
GUITAR LESSONS
PAUL FROST GUITAR
To suit most styles, Beginners welcome!
40 Years Of Experiance
I am Paul Frost, I have played guitar for 40 years, and have been playing in bands from the age of 12. I currently play in 3 local cover bands, namely Backstreet, Stony Ground and Trickshot.
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Contact Paul: 01953 888 193 paul.frost@freeuk.com
Originally self taught, I constantly tr y to achieve a higher standard of playing and musicianship. I now teach guitar myself from my home in Banham and the lessons are generally conducted once a for tnight at either 30 minute or 1 hour sessions. Both beginners or more experienced players are welcome, and I am able to teach most styles of music. I am a member of the Registr y of Guitar Tutors and able to help students with both RGT & Rockschool grades in playing electric, acoustic, and bass guitar. Although I have an existing student base, I am hoping this will expand, along with the possibility of teaching in local schools.
nth o m a 6 ÂŁ t s u From j
Fertilising Weed Control Moss Control Scarification Hollow-tine Aeration Overseeding Top Dressing Lawn Renovation
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Your lawn is the carpet of your garden. Keeping it clean and tidy really makes a big difference. Find out how Tom Thumb’s seasonal treatment plan can keep your lawn looking lush, green, weed and moss free for less than Doing It Yourself!
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GENERAL
PRIORY INSURANCE
A Look at Motor Insurance...... hether you are a convicted driver, young driver, or have limited no claims bonus, we can find the policy cover specific to your requirements. We have negotiated special rates with our panel of Insurers for those careful drivers and special introductor y discounts for those without any no claim bonus. We are always able to offer instalment facilities.
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We deal with many leading UK Insurers and Lloyds Underwriters to provide the best possible quotation and cover for our clients, regardless of the risk. Being totally independent means that we are not tied to a single provider and this allows us access to a range of insurance policies from our panel of carefully selected Insurers. Why not let us compare the market for you and deal on a personal level with your requirements.
Prior y Insurance Brokers are a locally owned, independent, professional organisation who have been based in South Norfolk for over 40 years. We would be pleased to provide
quotations or advice for you and look forward to receiving your enquir y. For more information, please feel free to call in to our Wymondham Office. Alternatively, visit our website: www.prioryinsurance.co.uk
Barnards Heating Solutions All types of Heating and Plumbing
Installations Repairs
01953 860545 Boiler Servicing Oil, Gas & LPG
07912 608267 www.barnardsheatingsolutions.co.uk
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Diss & Attleborough | 21
MOTORING
2017 Suzuki S-Cross Facelift By Tim Barnes-Clay – Motoring Journalist - Tweeting @carwriteups he Suzuki S-Cross has gone under the knife and has got a new engine range for 2017, too. Our motoring journalist, Tim Barnes-Clay, reports.
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The 1.6-litre petrol unit is now missing from the latest S-Cross and has been substituted by a 1.0-litre turbocharged three-pot and a 1.4-litre four-cylinder Boosterjet engine. These apparently guarantee less CO2 emissions and better mpg. The 1.4-litre Boosterjet was first housed in the Japanese automaker’s Vitara earlier in the year, and the 1.0 power unit is also one of the engines that propels the new Baleno launched in May. The 111PS little 1.0-litre lump has nine per cent more pulling power than the depar ting 1.6 petrol, and it cuts emissions by 11 per cent to 113g/km when hooked up to a manual gearbox. Fuel consumption is also enhanced by ten per cent. 22 | Diss & Attleborough
Suzuki’s 1.4-litre engine makes 140PS and has got an incredible 41 per cent fur ther torque than the retiring 1.6-litre engine. A 1.6-litre diesel is also offered.
resourcefully. LED lights at the rear-end keep the S-Cross ‘down with the kids’ for 2017 - and the Suzuki is more elevated than the exiting S-Cross, with 180mm of ground clearance now, compared with 165mm.
“ The Suzuki S-Cross’s design team has obviously worked hard as there is a really obvious change at the front end of the car. ”
The Suzuki S-Cross’s design team has obviously worked hard as there is a really obvious change at the front end of the car. It’s far more ‘in your face’, with fresh headlights that not only refine the look, but work more
Step inside the cabin and the dashboard has been remodelled. The SZ4 and SZ-T models have an updated design of seat material, too. Three degrees of Suzuki S-Cross can be bought or leased: SZ4, SZ-T and SZ5. All trim www.DispatchMagazine.co.uk
MOTORING
“ Behind the wheel, the instrument cluster, although surrounded by a little too much cheap looking plastic, helps you focus on driving.”
Fur thermore, the Japanese manufacturer’s Allgrip four-wheel drive set-up can be found on the top two models and with all three power units. Choose any of the above and you’ll discover the S-Cross’s bold and spor ty design offers ample room for passengers and luggage. The front seats provide excellent suppor t and hold you firmly in place, even on tight curves. Behind the wheel, the instrument cluster, although surrounded by a little too much cheap looking plastic, helps you focus on driving. Suzuki’s four-wheel-drive technology leaves no room for doubt that the S-Cross is the perfect fusion of family-friendliness, safety and performance. Don’t get me wrong, it’s no hardcore mud-plugger, but it’ll handle dir t, grass, snow, sand and a bit more – so it’s just right for mini-adventures. Safety equipment hasn’t been overlooked, either. Features include seven airbags for occupants and the bonnet provides impact absorption which lessens injury if the car hits a pedestrian.
levels have ESP as standard, and come with air conditioning, DAB and cruise control. The SZ-T S-Cross, which is targeted mainly at fleets, attaches 17-inch alloy www.DispatchMagazine.co.uk
wheels, dual-zone air conditioning, a rear parking camera with parking sensors, and front fog-lights. The flagship SZ5 adds heated leather seats, a panoramic sunroof and radar brake suppor t.
In fact, the previous S-Cross was rated as one of Europe‘s safest cars, achieving the maximum top five-star status from Euro NCAP, so there’s no reason why the 2017 model should be any different. If anything, it’ll be safer. The basic price of the 2017 Suzuki S-Cross is only £14,999 and it goes on sale in the UK on 17th October. Diss & Attleborough | 23
We can provide support in your own home enabling you to retain your independence.
First Choice Home Care is an established business that has been providing quality domiciliary care and supporting people in their homes for the past 3 years. We have two offices based in the market towns of Diss and Wymondham, covering a variety of areas throughout South Norfolk and North Suffolk. • Peace of mind for you and your family • Attention to detail • Caring local staff • Care workers are fully trained and hold a fully enhanced DBS • CQC and local Authority registered.
We deliver flexible, person centered care including;
• Personal care and medication support • Meal preparation • Shopping and housework • Attending social events and appointments • Hospital discharge and high dependency care
For a confidential, FREE no obligation discussion please contact us on DISS 01379 640100 WYMONDHAM 01953 667950
We are recruiting Care and Support Workers
We have a number of opportunities available, we can offer a variety of different working patterns to suit you such as: Days, Evenings, Nights (sleeping/waking) Weekends Full and Part time hours available. Diss, Scole, Eye, Harleston And all surrounding villages
01379 640100
enquiries@firstchoicehomecare.co.uk
Wymondham, Hethersett, Attleborough and all surrounding areas
01953 667950
wymondham@firstchoicehomecare.co.uk
ELDERLY
HEARING CARE CENTRE
Open Days Organised Across Norfolk to Encourage Early Detection of Hearing Loss ne in six people in the UK has a hearing loss. This doesn’t mean that the day we turn 60, we wake up in the morning and can’t hear. The process is usually gradual and progressive. Local hearing care specialists, The Hearing Care Centre, are organising a series of special ‘Open Days’ across their centres in Norfolk to encourage people with hearing loss to take that first step.
“Even if you are one of those people who insist they hear just fine, thank you, there is no harm (and a lot of benefit) in having your hearing checked.”
When it comes to age-related hearing loss, it may not always be preventable. However, not waiting too long before getting tested and – in case of need – getting fitted with hearing aids sooner rather than later, is a ver y smar t move. Hearing Care Centre Managing Director and Audiologist, Karen Finch explained: “Just like our joints and muscles, the use-it or lose-it principle applies to our hearing. Understanding hearing loss and treatment options, such as hearing aids, can assure you don’t lose it before it is too late.
•Monday 10th October (9am-5pm) Cecil Amey Opticians, WYMONDHAM •Tuesday 11th October (9am-5pm) Cecil Amey Opticians, DEREHAM •Wednesday 12th October (9am-5pm) Cecil Amey Opticians, ATTLEBOROUGH •Thursday 13th October (9am-5pm) Cecil Amey Opticians, HARLSTON •Friday 14th October (9am-5pm) Cecil Amey Opticians, HOVETON
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The ‘Open Days’ are being held on the following dates and specialists from The Hearing Care Centre will be on hand to offer free hearing tests and free professional advice. Appointments are essential.
“One of the many good reasons to get your hearing checked sooner rather
than later is this: undetected and untreated hearing loss can diminish your quality of life by making it difficult to communicate and interact with people around you – be it at work or in family and social situations”, said Karen. “On the other hand, treating hearing loss as early as possible, before it star ts to impact your emotional, psychological and social well-being, can improve your communication and language skills, allowing you to fully par ticipate in all the leisure and work activities.”
To book an appointment at the Hearing Care Open Days call Freephone 0800 096 2637.
Diss & Attleborough | 25
Providing a PROFESSIONAL
and caring service
Susan Whymark
Funeral Service Susan Whymark Funeral Service is owned and run by the Whymark Family.
Independent Funeral Service serving Eye, Harleston and the surrounding areas
Susan Whymark
Funeral Service
Telephone personally answered 24 hours a day
Eye 01379 871168 Harleston 01379 851253
Independent and Family Run
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Chestnut House, 12 Progress Way, Langton Green, Eye, Suffolk, IP32 7HU And 31 Redenhall Road, Harleston, IP20 9HL
26 | Diss & Attleborough
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Need a locksmith? 24/7!!
Kingfisher Locksmiths No call out charge OAP Discount Tel 01953 602255 Mob 07958 315661
A Norfolk Trusted Trader! www.kingfisherlocksmiths.co.uk
We have a wealth of knowledge and experience in the selection, craftsmanship and installation of natural stone.
Vinces Road, Diss 01379 652211 www.hlperfitt.co.uk
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Diss & Attleborough | 27
ArchitectsRegistrationBoard
SMG ARCHITECTS Free initial consultation
Introduction SMG Chartered Architects started as a small practice in 1980 and began life as David Stead & Associates. In 2000 the current Managing Director, Ian Mutton joined and the practice has steadily grown in all aspects of its work, knowledge, scope of design and architecture. Operating from two offices in Norwich & Sheringham, SMG can now boast 3 RIBA Architects, 11 technical staff and a knowledgeable support team. Providing a wealth of experience in all fields of architecture & design, SMG has built a reputation for quality, integrity, service and an eye for detail. SMG prides itself on providing a service from start to finish, where you have the personal contact from a member of staff to guide you along the way. Covering the whole of East Anglia and beyond, SMG is able to offer the complete package for your building design requirements.
Capabilities The practice offers clients the capabilities and experience to see the projects through all stages from inception, planning, construction and beyond. Through our employment of experienced and professional personnel with a diverse range of experience, we are able to provide a co-ordinated design role to our clients, offering a single point of contact for a completely integrated design service. SMG Architects has developed a completely integrated design service for our clients covering; Architectural Design Full Project Co-ordination Master Planning Listed Building Work Technical Services Conservation Work Project Management
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Get in touch potterg ate
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Norwich Willow House, 9 Willow Lane, Norwich, Norfolk, NR2 1EU 01603 614422
Sheringham The Studio, St. Peters Road, Sheringham, Norfolk, NR26 8QY 01263 824422
info@smg-architects.co.uk
www.smg-architects.co.uk