Diss & Attleborough - April 2014

APRIL 2014 | PRICELESS

food & drink

motoring

HOMES & GARDENS

AN INTERVIEW WITH...

FOR DISS & ATTLEBOROUGH

www.DispatchMagazine.co.uk

April 2014

WELCOME

BRECKLAND HOMECLEAN

for Permanent & Temporary Recruitment

Quality People continue to provide a recruitment service for the towns of Attleborough, Dereham, Diss, Thetford, Watton & Wymondham plus the surrounding areas throughout Breckland & South Norfolk as they have for the

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past 16 years.

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Find us at: Queens House, Queens Square, Attleborough, Norfolk, NR17 2AE Tel: 01953 456789

&

www.DispatchMagazine.co.uk www.FineCity.co.uk

@Dispatch_Mag @FineCityMag

Editor: Jonathan Horswell

Issue 151 April 2014

Advertising: sales@DispatchMagazine.co.uk

Deadline for all submissions for the next issue is:

Editorial: editorial@DispatchMagazine.co.uk

© Dispatch Magazine Disclaimer:

Design: design@DispatchMagazine.co.uk Dispatch Magazine: 01953 456789 Queens House, Queens Square, Attleborough, Norfolk. NR17 2AE.

DispatchMag FineCityMag

April 13th 2014

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.

April 2014

Diss

www.dissonline.co.uk

Dispatch Has a Sister Park Radio Springs Forth FineCity Magazine re-launches in Norwich.

I am delighted to confirm Spider Media Solutions, who are the publishers of Dispatch Magazine, have successfully obtained the Norwich based magazine ‘FineCity’.

FineCity Magazine has been published in Norwich for the past few years, before its previous owner wound the title down last year. Spider Media Solutions has now taken over the title and will relaunch FineCity as a Community Lifestyle Magazine with effect from the May 2014 edition.

FineCity will remain an A4, full colour, gloss lifestyle magazine, but will adopt a community feel based along the same lines as Dispatch Magazine which we have been publishing for the past 14 years.

Dispatch Magazine’s ethos has always been to promote local events, clubs, organisations, charities and businesses.

This will remain our sole focus with FineCity who already have a fantastic reputation in Norwich.

April 2014

FineCity will initially have a 10,000 print run, and will be available via collection points at: Theatre Royal, The Forum & Library, Waitrose at Eaton, John Lewis, CinemaCity, The Maddermarket, Norwich Airport and Castle Mall.

We will also have Door to Door delivery in the Cringleford and Eaton area of Norwich which will increase by about 3,000 each month as we expand the area of delivery around the city.

This is great news for existing Dispatch Magazine customers and rural businesses who wish to be promoted in our Fine City as we can now include you in this new publication as well as our family of Dispatch Magazines.

As the days grow longer and the daffodils grow taller Park Radio are busy planning a further programme of community events for Diss and the surrounding area.

In the year that Park Radio apply for its 5 year fulltime licence they are launching the 2014 season of “Fun for Fund raising” at the Diss Causeway Bowls club on 12th March with one of the now infamous “Quiz Nights!”. Over the next 3 months they will be doing the following: April 16th - Diss Causeway Bowls Club Bingo Night 30th - Diss Cue Club Quiz Night

For more informaton on FineCity please contact us at:

May 29th - Italian Job : Quiz Night [TBC] 30th & 31st - Diss Fringe Festival

Tel: 01953 456789 Web: www.FineCity.co.uk Email: Office@FineCity.co.uk Twitter: @FineCityMag Facebook: Facebook.com/FineCityMag

June 1st - Diss Fringe Festival 14th - Park Alive : Proms Concert 15th - Diss Carnival 25th - Gissing Crown : Quiz Night [TBC]

To receive regular updates and details of all our forthcoming events, emailbonnier.park@gmail.com In addition, to all the fetes, quiz nights and roadshows the station can offer its DJ services for private parties - weddings, birthdays, anniversaries etc. - sure to get your party swinging!

Enquiries to chris@parkradio.co.uk 2014 is going to be another busy year for Park Radio!

Be part if it!

@Dispatch_Mag

Diss

Training Investment Pays Off For Kerrie Eastaugh At Diss Opticians Diss opticians A Stodel, now part of wider family firm Dipple & Conway, is reaping big returns from a policy of identifying and nurturing talent throughout the business.

Former Diss schoolgirl Kerrie Eastaugh, who has qualified as a clinical assistant, is among four new appointments.

Educated at Diss High School and Sixth Form, Kerrie Eastaugh joined Dipple & Conway as a receptionist three years ago from a Diss firm of accountants.

Presented with the option to train as a clinical assistant, she jumped at the chance.

It means she is now qualified to carry out pre-screening tests with clients before the optometrist takes over for the examination.

“It was an opportunity to invest in my future,” said Kerrie. “I did in-house training with our optometrists and then did an external training course to get my qualification in optical practice support.”

Neil McDonald has been appointed practice manager. His responsibilities involve working across the three practice premises, at Diss, Swaffham and Norwich.

Dudkiewicz is now a qualified dispensing optician. The Conway brothers are delighted to reward the loyalty and progress made by key team members.

Optometrist Alison Blake has joined Dipple & Conway from a prestigious private eye hospital. And former trainee Maciek

“Watching them progress is fantastic. Dipple & Conway has always promoted from within where we can,” said James.

Kerrie has also trained as an optical hygienist to work with the dry eye laboratory equipment – technology Dipple & Conway introduced to the East Anglian optometry industry recently.

“Kerrie has risen brilliantly to the challenge and is a real asset to the practice, combining her new skills with her receptionist duties,” said James Conway, who who co-owns the business with his brothers Damian and Robert.

Waveney Foodbank Helping those in need.

Since April 2013 Waveney Foodbank (a Trussell Trust foodbank) have helped over 1200 people in South Norfolk and North Suffolk by supplying 3 days of emergency food to people in need, these people found themselves in a crisis situation and they had to make a choice between buying food and paying bill or heating their home.

Many people in work, are finding it increasingly harder to make ends meet, some are between jobs and can be left waiting up to 8 weeks for welfare payments to arrive others may be elderly or disabled and have had a large unexpected bill or they might just be finding things a bit tough. Many parents also skip meals to ensure their children are fed properly some even go without food so their pets don’t go hungry.

We have however noticed an alarming rise in the numbers of people using foodbanks living in rural locations. Foodbanks can be hard to access due to a lack of transport and from people not knowing who to ask for help.

Many people are unsure how to request help from foodbanks, we can only accept referrals from an approved agency these include Citizens advice bureaus, Housing associations, Local Clergy, Social Services, disability charities, and many Schools, Doctors and health visitors, to mention only a few.

If you are unsure about who to contact phone us on 0845 2691078 (2p a min) we can advise you more We can in some circumstances even deliver food to some people who are unable to travel to a distribution centre.

If you wish to help Waveney foodbank by donating food or helping us with day to day running costs, please take a look at our website : www.waveney.foodbank. org.uk.

We also need volunteers to help with all aspects of the Foodbank... please feel free to send us an email with your contact details to info@waveney.foodbank.org.uk

April 2014

Diss

www.dissonline.co.uk

Diss Museum Recent press coverage of the forthcoming educational airship project sparked quite a response from the public as well as schools.

One woman sent her grandmother’s death certificate showing that she ran into a Brixton street during the last Zeppelin raid and was decapitated.

People sent rare photographs, including some showing the career of Harold Lee. He began as a rigger on Pulham airships, particularly the early Coastal Class dirigibles, and went on to become a Squadron Leader.

Another correspondent told us about the Wrens at Pulham, a little known aspect of the airship station. Service records showed attitudes of the time.

One young woman was said to be “common” but still rose from the ranks to be an Officer.

He also alerted us to more items at an auction in Perth, Scotland.

with the owner and we had a great conversation with 84 year old George Douglas about his great uncle.

These had belonged to the greatnephew of another crew member, George Graham. He was the owner of Wopsie the cat, the first feline to fly across the ocean, making her a celebrity in New York in 1919.

At 42, he was the oldest crew member.

He had served in the Boer War and the First World War as an Officer, hence the swagger stick, and only ever flew, as an Engineer, on the R34.

We made an email bid and were successful in getting pictures, a route map, a cutting and a swagger stick.

The auctioneers then put us in touch

There are still several theories about why the R34 was sent to Pulham, on its return from Long Island, rather that East Fortune in Scotland.

George Douglas said it was purely because of the weather. Running repairs with chewing gum might not have withstood the stormy conditions over East Lothian.

There is a joint airship weekend on 10-11 May by Diss and Pulham.

S ee the Diss Community Partnership website for the Diss events, or phone (01379) 650618.

Basil Abbott, Museum Manager

Former Riddlesworth Hall headmistress Mrs.Pat Wood told us that her family had had the nose cone from an airship and used it as a tent (Where is it now?). The grandson of an R34 crew member had previously sent pictures of items connected with the airship’s double Atlantic crossing in 1919.

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Diss

Diss & District Bowls Club Prepares For 24hr Bowls Marathon In Aid Of Big C Onesie-wearing bowlers will need to stay wide awake when they set off on a sponsored marathon match at Diss.

Although they will be wearing sleeping suits – even club chairman Robert Capon has managed to find one to fit his 6ft 4in frame – they will be bowling through the night to raise funds for cancer support.

The 24-hour marathon, which begins at 7pm on Good Friday, has been prompted by the loss of members to cancer, most notably England international and Norfolk ladies’ singles champion Carol Pollington.

Her family will be among the bowlers and supporters raising money for the Norfolkbased Big C cancer charity.

Club member and international bowler John Rednall will also be taking part with his teenage daughter Katherine who only weeks ago was watched by TV viewers as she became the youngest winner of the ladies’ world indoor title at Potters Resort at Hopton. For a price, bowlers will be able to match themselves over a couple of ends against a world champion.

A leading organiser of the event, Lynne Ainge, whose husband Pete also died due to cancer last year and has personally had support from the Big C Centre at the Norfolk and Norwich Hospital “We wanted to organise a charity event that, not only would be fun for the participants, but would benefit Norfolk people and their families who are affected by cancer,” said Lynne. “I am not sure if I will manage to bowl in my pink onesie and wig for the whole 24 hours but am willing to give it a go to support such a worthwhile cause. I have chosen pink because I am a survivor of breast cancer myself.”

Bowls of Glasgow. Other supporters of the event include Ames Nissan of Thetford and bowls equipment suppliers Mark Royal and Anglia Bowls.

Twenty-four hour candles will be available for people to dedicate for a donation to the charity in memory loved ones and these will be kept burning throughout the event. Anybody who

wishes to sponsor the bowlers can go to justgiving.com/dissbowls Visitors will be welcome to visit the club, off Denmark Green, Diss, at any time during the 24 hours. If you bring slippers or kick off your shoes then you can even have a go at bowling too. Saturday morning will be a good time if you like bacon butties for breakfast.

Although some bowlers will be setting themselves the target of bowling for most of the 24 hours, others will be taking part in two-hour shifts. All bowlers playing the minimum time will go into a draw for a customised set of bowls from Taylor

Brass Band Ranked 15th In The World To Visit Norwich East Anglian Brass Band Association’s 76th Annual Gala Concert.

On Sunday 11th May 2014, the East Anglian Brass Band Association is proud to present its 76th Annual Gala concert.

The Association welcomes the famous Virtuosi GUS Band, who are currently ranked 15th in the world, to St Andrew’s Hall, Norwich. The band based in Kettering has performed throughout Britain, Europe and America in concert halls, on television, on radio and on records and CDs. The band has won no less than six national titles, the British Open Championships and been proclaimed World Champions.

The concert commences at 6.30pm.

Tickets costing £14.00, £16.00 and £18.00 are now on sale and are available from the Association Secretary.

For more information and tickets email administration@eabba7.freeserve.co.uk or telephone 01473 626986.

East Anglian Brass Band Association Presents

2013

Butlins Mineworkers Champions

Virtuosi GUS Band

Sunday 11th May 2014 St Andrew’s Hall, Norwich, 6.30pm Box office 01473 626986

administration@ eabba7.freeserve.co.uk Charity number 1062760

April 2014

Diss

www.dissonline.co.uk

Jackamans Solicitors Small enough to care: Big enough to specialise Jackamans is a friendly high street firm with easily accessible offices in Diss and Harleston in Norfolk and Ipswich and Felixstowe in Suffolk.

We find that the combination of expertise and local knowledge enables us to provide a quality service for all clients.

Our legal specialists are backed by experienced staff who make any visitor to our offices feel very welcome. The Harleston office is very close to a free car

park but if you prefer not to travel, our advisers will visit you in your own home or office at a time to suit us both.

Palmer, Conveyancing Executive and Claire Kean, a Legal Executive in our Family department.

Our team at Harleston has recently been strengthened by the inclusion of Stephen Abbott.

For many people, buying and selling a house is the most important financial decision they will make. Having an experienced legal adviser with knowledge of the locality is often invaluable in making sure that things run smoothly. “Personal service is extremely important to us. We keep the client informed at each stage of the process” explained Laura Palmer.

Stephen, who has worked for Jackamans for over 35 years and has specialised in Trusts, Wills, Probate and Powers of Attorney for over 20, has moved to the Harleston office to meet increased demand. “Harleston is a very active town – we need to have the right skills available to respond to the needs of local people.”

Said Stephen Abbott.

Everybody should make a will, and Stephen can assist you and answer any questions that you may have. He also advises on Powers of Attorney. The firm also offers a flexible probate service. If you are having to take on the responsibility of Probate, he will agree with you in advance the areas that you can deal with and those that it would be best for us to handle for you.

Already based at Harleston are Laura

minute interview to discuss your needs with no obligation. If you commission us to work for you, we will keep you updated on costs every step of the way and usually the same person will handle your matter throughout the legal process.

Jackamans also provides a comprehensive range of other legal services for businesses and individuals including advice on company and employment matters, commercial and dispute resolution for individuals and businesses.

Claire Kean of our Family department can advise about divorce, separation agreements, arrangements for children, how finance and property should be divided and any court procedures involved.

Timely advice from an experienced family solicitor will enable informed decisions and choices to be made. Legal Aid may be available and we can advise about eligibility, which is based on income, savings and the merits of the case.

We can often see clients without an appointment and do offer an initial free 30

Better business advice from our team of experts t Buying and Selling a Business t Commercial Agreements t Commercial Property t Business Start-ups t Debt Recovery t Dispute Resolution t Employment

Ipswich 01473 255591 Diss 01379 643555

Felixstowe 01394 279636 Harleston 01379 854455 www.jackamans.co.uk

April 2014

@Dispatch_Mag

Diss

2014/2015 Tax Year We made it !!! Not only to the end of the winter and into Spring but also nearly to the end of the tax year.

All too quickly we are at 5 April 2014 and we are hurtling into the 2014/2015 tax year. There is always lots to do at the end of the tax year and this year there are even a few changes.

Don’t forget if you run a payroll that it is now the first anniversary of the Real Time Information (RTI) system – now of course I haven’t reminded you about this because I expect you to buy a birthday cake and sing Happy birthday – although you can if you like! The real reason is that now the gloves are off.

Over the last 12 months if you were late filing your real time submissions there were no fines – just a letter advising you. From 6 April 2014 the fines start so make sure that you don’t file your submissions late.

If you don’t want the added pressure then why not talk to us about our payroll service. Here at KBA we try to provide the best value for money that we can and prices start from as little

as £10 plus VAT per week.

The other “big” news for payroll users is the new employment allowance which could cut your National Insurance bill by £2,000. There are some businesses which can’t claim this allowance and if you are not sure if you are affected, then why not call us and let us help you find out.

The important fact to remember is that you must specifically claim this Employment Allowance and this has to be done after you have filed your employment summary to 5 April 2014.

For more information on how to claim this allowance or for help with your payroll – why not come and talk to us. After all if we can help you save £2000 over the year then surely our low fees will be a bargain and you will be quids in!

Of course 5 April 2014 not only marks the end of the tax year it also marks the date upon which a lot of individuals particularly self employed persons

and company directors need to start thinking about their tax returns.

On 6 April as regular as clockwork HMRC will issue notices to complete tax returns and these will be sent out to all those tax payers that need to complete a return. Of course the deadline for submission is 31 January 2015 but it is important not to get caught out.

Here at KBA we had a lot of new clients contacting us because they didn’t realise they needed to complete a tax return until either a notice arrived – or one of the follow on letters arrived chasing the return.

The fine starts at £100 but quickly escalates and there are a lot of better things to spend your money on than tax penalties.

time. Hopefully this will help to work out what you need to do and give you time to get all your books and records ready so there are no nasty surprises.

Here at KBA we don’t just help with tax returns – our list is endless – from accounts through company formations to VAT registrations, cash flows through to self assessment there is lots than we can help with so why not give us a call.

We can even help you with your tax credit claims (authority is required). So why not start the new tax year the way you mean to go on – by making one easy decision – come and see us - www.kerrybutcher.co.uk - kerry@kerrybutcher.co.uk - 01953 457173

If you need to complete a tax return why not give us a call or pop in and make that initial free appointment. This free consultation can last up to one hour and a lot can be covered in that

Headache Relief With Indian Head Massage Tension headaches are caused by the tightening of muscles over the scalp, forehead, back of head, upper part of the neck and around the jaw.

They may be brief or last several days.

Severity of pain will vary and it is commonly described as a feeling of a tight band around the head and the feeling that the head is being squeezed in a vice.

sufficiently to cope with the stress. Tension headaches can then occur as a result of a process of the muscles knotting in the shoulder and neck which leads to the tightening of the muscles described above.

An overload of stress can make a person extremely tired yet unable to sleep or relax

This type of headache can often be relieved immediately by Indian head massage, which is a combination of neck, shoulder and head massage techniques.

Friction applied across the tight muscles in the neck and across the base of the skull will begin to ease the pain. Massage also encourages relaxation and helps to lower stress so therefore treats the cause of the headache as well as the pain symptoms.

Most headaches are tension headaches, but sometimes the origin can be traced to another cause such as flu, menstruation, high blood pressure, hunger or simply a noisy environment. If a headache is accompanied by nausea, fever, vomiting or disturbed vision professional medical advice should be sought.

April 2014

10 Diss

www.dissonline.co.uk

Diss Students Get Local Residents To Think “Shop Local” Students from Diss High School brought a splash of colour to the Diss local farmers market on Saturday 8th March.

The event, organised by Business Studies students working towards their GCSE’s included music and dance, food sampling, a prize draw, promotional giveaways and daffodils. This was part of a project to encourage local residents to shop and support the abundance of local independent stores in town as well as the farmers market.

The students were tasked with creating a street fest to drive people into town and used a variety of media channels to get their messages out.The students themselves were surprised at the choice of retail therapy available locally and would be using the shops themselves in the future. This was communicated through to fellow students at the high school.

Martin Wilby, deputy leader of the council said: “South Norfolk’s Market Towns play a vital role in the local economy and the communities they serve. This fantastic project supports the work that we are already undertaking with our partners to ensure that our Market Towns are in the best shape possible to attract shoppers, tourists and businesses, now and in the future.”

The students have been busy in the run up to the event researching why people do or do not shop in the town. Some residents in the surrounding housing areas have never been into the town and use out of town supermarkets and the nearby city. Others use the coffee shops and restaurants but do not step over the threshold of the other traders in the town.

Visitors to the street fest were treated to music by local performers. A hamper prize draw collected names and addresses and messages of support from visitors to the town, many of which picked up on the event from marketing activity the students delivered including a radio interview with BBC Norfolk.

“It is wonderful that these students recognise the need to ensure that their local towns thrive while gaining practical marketing experience by working on this project.”

Diss has a wide variety of local independent shops selling just about everything a household needs, including unique and unusual gifts and treats as well as everyday items.

The project is part of South Norfolk Council’s Market Towns Initiative which brings together resources and expertise to support the Market Towns of Diss, Harleston, Loddon and Wymondham.

experience with a marketing agency – The Lively Crew, using research techniques and communicating with business people and others.”

“All will help greatly with our studies and work choices in the future. The event was our first and we intend to repeat the exercise in the future to help support the town.”

Sarah Hunt, student said “The experience has highlighted the choice of products available from local businesses around the area, and we worked closely with them to promote the benefits of shopping locally. As students we have gained from our involvement in various ways, including gaining valuable real life work

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Diss 11

A Group Of Nine Women, Having The Best Time Ever . . .

Golf is a great game whatever your age, background or ability.

It offers fun in the fresh air, it’s the perfect way to make new friends and it brings impressive health and wellbeing benefits.

Nicky signed up for a six week Get into golf course at the Norwich Family Golf Centre, coached by PGA professional Mark Spooner.

How did you progress?

We started with a seven iron. Mark used a wobble board to teach us balance control and also did video analysis. On the last session we played three holes.

school days or an almost-forgotten holiday.

You can get started by taking advantage of the beginner courses on offer across Norfolk for only £25 for 6 weeks.

To find an activity near you go to www.getintogolf.org/Norfolk or call 0800 118 2766

What happened after the course finished?

What inspired you to take up golf?

I love sport, my husband plays golf and I saw information about Get into golf on the intranet at work.

What was the course like?

It was brilliant. We were nine women, all different ages, and we all got on and had the best time ever.

I continued having lessons and practising at the driving range. I started playing nine holes with new golfing friends, Carole and Roz, and gradually built up to 18 holes. Seven months after starting I joined Bawburgh Golf Club and three months later I had my first handicap.

What do you enjoy about golf?

What did you wear?

I love being outdoors and active, it’s very sociable.

Smart casual black jeans, tee-shirt and jumper. I got a pair of golf shoes in the sale.

It doesn’t matter if you’ve never played golf or haven’t picked up a club since your

April 2014

12 ATTLEBORoUGH

www.attleboroughonline.co.uk

Spring Cruise

Norwich Sunblinds

The cruise industry is one of the fastest moving sectors of Travel.

Norwich Sunblinds are very grateful for the support of our customers over the last few years.

Cruises appeal to a wide range of travellers, from those looking to try something new to World Voyage passengers who love to experience exotic destinations and love the safety and value of life on board.

P&O, Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Lines are all launching new ships next year.

P&O will launch their new ship Britannia on the 14th March 2015. Britannia will be 141,000 tonnes and will accommodate 3647 passengers; it will see P&O signature features with new innovations making this a leading lady for the cruise line.

She will depart Southampton for the summer season then head over to the Caribbean offering both a transatlantic route and fly-cruise for the winter months. You can book your voyage from 27th March 2014 Royal Caribbean will launch Anthem of the Seas on the 22nd April 2015,

this ship is 167,800 tonnes and will accommodate 4152 passengers.

Anthems of the Seas will showcase some ‘first at sea experiences’, including Ripcord by ifly, first sky diving simulator at sea, North Star, a unique feature which allows you to be taken 300 feet above sea level and be able to see 360 degrees views!

Anthem of the Seas will offer 3 to 16 night itineraries from Southampton.

Norwegian Cruise Lines are taking delivery of Norwegian Escape in autumn 2015, it will be 163,000 tonnes and will accommodate 4200 passengers.

It will be released very soon where its homeport will be and first sailing will go on sale. Following this launch will be the addition of the Bliss, this will be launched in 2017!

If you are interested in booking a cruise then don’t hesitate to contact us on: 01953 455003

As everyone knows the economy has been difficult, and without our loyal customers we would not have survived during the last few challenging years.

We wish them every success, and commend them on the brilliant work that they do

With this in mind we have decided that we would like to give back to the local community, so over the next few months we will contribute £1.00 for every blind and pair of curtains we sell this year to local charities.

Each month we will be supporting a different local charity Our staff are all excited to find out each day how many blinds/curtains have been sold to contribute towards the Charity.

We wanted to support EACH (East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices), particularly their Quidenham hospice in Norfolk, as they do an amazing job of caring for local life threatened children and supporting their families at an unimaginably difficult time. in January we raised £1,338

Gary Cook, EACH Norfolk Fundraiser, said; “We are absolutely delighted that Norwich Sunblinds have chosen To support us with their first charity of the month initiative. We really appreciate the company donation of £838 as well as a further £500 which was an individual donation made by Pauline Reddington.”

“It is great that a Norfolk based company have raised Funds for a local charity to support local children and families when they need it most - it really shows how the community can all work together.”

Our charity for February is Star Throwers Cancer Support and in March Remember Ryan – Meningitis Research

save up to 40% on conservatory & garden room blinds Offer ends 30th April QUOTE DP14 01603 615945

8 St. Benedicts Street, Norwich, Norfolk NR2 4AG

01953 455415

Haverscroft Industrial Estate, Attleborough, Norfolk NR17 1YE

For every blind, curtain and Roman fold sold in April we are donating £1 to Nelson’s Journey - supporting bereaved children

www.norwichsunblinds.co.uk April 2014

@Dispatch_Mag

ATTLEBORoUGH 13

New Media, New Markets – A Balanced Approach The Internet has enabled Norfolk companies to broaden their horizons, targeting customers nationally and globally. But is there a danger of them losing out by neglecting traditional markets and media?

Local design company KSD Associates has the answer, with a balanced mix of online and offline marketing, as well as strong ties with the local community.

The world is getting smaller. With online media providing cost-effective access to a national or global marketplace, small and medium-sized businesses are no longer confined to targeting local customers. However, traditional media and markets still have their place in the marketing mix.

In a crowded digital arena, supporting websites and email marketing with printed materials can reinforce the message and deliver much better results. What’s more, staying in touch with your loyal local customer base is essential.

“It’s a matter of planning a cohesive strategy that integrates online and offline media to target traditional and new markets,” says Kevin Smith, owner of Norfolk-based graphic design agency KSD Associates. “For many

small and medium-sized businesses, the Web remains something of an enigma, complicated by technospeak and buzzwords. We’re here to demystify the world of online marketing and provide straight-talking advice. We can help businesses take advantage of the opportunities and avoid the pitfalls that can be costly and non-productive.”

New technology, Traditional values.

Whether it’s websites and social media or brochures and mail shots, KSD applies similar fundamental principles: good design, clear messaging and a strong call to action.

“New media are an evolution, not a revolution,” observes Kevin. “It’s not about reinventing the wheel. The way you communicate with customers hasn’t changed dramatically. They still respond to a good offer that inspires them, is clearly presented and makes it easy for them to respond.

We’ve adapted our skills to embrace the possibilities of this new digital

world and help companies take full advantage of the opportunities that it creates.”

Community spirit.

KSD prides itself on having strong links with the local community and understanding its dynamic. “We share our experience and expertise from an informed viewpoint,” asserts Kevin.

“It’s not just about having the creative and technical skills to produce eyecatching design solutions. We’re firmly rooted in Norfolk and committed to working with local companies to help them continue building a loyal local customer base while widening their reach to target new markets.”

KSD has already begun helping to foster community spirit in its home base of Wymondham through membership of the town’s Business Group. This has led to sponsorship of the publicity for the annual carnival, which this year will include the grand

finale of Wymondham’s Got Talent, an opportunity for local residents to show off their entertaining skills to a live audience and a panel of judges, including professionals and local personalities.

“We’re delighted to be able to offer our expertise to benefit the local community,” comments Kevin. “Having events such as the annual carnival not only bring the community together.

They also attract visitors to the town and help boost the local economy.”

There’s much talk about ‘globalisation’ these days. But the term on everyone’s lips could soon be ‘localisation’. In the Internet Age, marketing power is rapidly being devolved to local business communities. With the help of forward-thinking companies such as KSD, businesses large and small can harness that power and make the most of the opportunities.

Tel - 01953 601757

April 2014

14 ATTLEBORoUGH

www.attleboroughonline.co.uk

Window Geeks “Replacing your steamed-up windows doesn’t mean you have to replace the whole window…Save thousands by changing only the glass”…

It can be stressful when things break or go wrong, especially when it seems the only solution comes at great expense.

Unexpected bills can hit households very hard at a time when every penny counts and it means that thousands of homeowners put off fixing their windows or doors for fear of the high costs usually associated with these types of products...

Well now you can relax…because WindowGeeks, a national window, door and conservatory repair specialist, has expanded into Norwich and will service the whole of the Norfolk region, giving local home owners access to real money-saving options; one that can reduce what could be an alarming bill in the thousands to a far more acceptable one in the low hundreds - and in most cases even lower than that.

The fact is that the average single repair or replacement undertaken by WindowGeeks, which includes locks, handles and hinges, as well as the usual replacement of steamed-up double glazed units is less

than £60...not surprising really when you consider that the replacement of a single steamed-up double glazed window starts from as low as £30 including VAT and fitting…which is why, at this point, many people take the opportunity to upgrade to energy efficient double glazed units.

Our new local and experienced team, headed up by Steve Olley, join all of our other skilled craftsmen and women throughout the UK, each providing a professional and cost effective service to 1,000s of customers from Plymouth in the Southwest, through Norwich in the East, up to Preston in the North and all points in-between…

“Lots of people have problems with their windows,” says Steve, “They get steamed-up and won’t clear, or the locks stick or the handles get loose…and it becomes even more of a problem at this time of year when cold draughts get through...but what’s really surprising is that most people don’t realise that all of these problems can be fixed quickly and without spending a fortune or having to

sell one or more of their children, unless they want to of course”…

WindowGeeks has over 38 years’ experience in the glazing industry and it’s sad to think that there are still quite a few traditional window companies that either refuse or just don’t want to carryout repairs…now were not saying that all double glazing companies don’t carry out repairs, many do, and do a great job, but Steve adds, “In most cases they’re not really interested in the smaller jobs and that’s what’s so great about WindowGeeks, we offer a real cost-effective solution, which makes it a very easy decision for our customers to choose us...there’s no pressure sales from us because there’s no viable alternative, unless, that is, you want to spend 10, 20 or even 100 times more on replacing all your double glazing!”

While the cost savings might be the biggest draw, there’s another reason customers should choose WindowGeeks and one that has inevitably convinced many customers throughout the UK to use us;

“It’s all about honesty and trust,” says Steve. “There’s integrity in what WindowGeeks do and that’s very important to me, we tell the truth, only charge for what needs doing and we always honour our promises…We run a very successful and ethical business based on good old fashioned customer service backed up with top quality products and support from our head office.”

WindowGeeks provides free quotations with; • No call out charges • No credit card charges • No deposits • No minimum order values • No high pressure sales men or women • No hidden extras • 10 year guarantee on all glazed products All our quotes include VAT and Fitting Call now for a FREE QUOTE on 0800 61 22 943 or visit us at www.windowgeeks.co.uk

WindowGeeks don’t flog double glazing They Fix It! SPEEDY, AFFORDABLE, NO FUSS, NO MESS

10 Year Guarantee On The Glass No Minimum Order No Credit Card Charges Think sorting it is going to cost a fortune?

Contact your local WindowGeek today for a free, no obligation quote

0800 5 118 007

April 2014

@Dispatch_Mag

ATTLEBORoUGH 15

A Look At Buy To Lets... Supermarket scheme Making sure you have adequate Landlords Insurance is essential, as a buy to let property is a substantial investment.

Priory Insurance Brokers specialise in arranging insurance cover for all types of property from Blocks of Flats to standard Private Dwelling Houses.

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 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. Our trained and experienced staff members are able to find the most suitable policy for your specific requirements.

In addition to cover on Buildings, policies can be extended to include: • Property Owners Liability • Loss of Rent cover following an insured Peril • Accidental Damage Cover • Cover for Landlords Contents With no Call Centres, you can be assured of a personal and friendly approach by our fully trained staff. We will help you to find the best policy at the best price for your individual needs.

For information or advice, please feel free to call in to our Wymondham Office.

puts waste to a positive use Waste not, Want not.

Attleborough Sainsbury’s Colleagues were given a tour of local animal sanctuary PACT based at Woodrising, Hingham by members of its dedicated staff.

The Attleborough store has been donating its waste fruit, vegetables and bread to the charity since Christmas 2012. Its all part of the company’s commitment to putting as much waste as possible to a positive use. The waste donation partnership goes alongside other company policies such as no waste to landfill and being the largest retailer to use anaerobic digestion.

The Attleborough Store colleagues were introduced to some of the many animals at the sanctuary who benefit from the waste produce and bread which is either just out of date or too damaged to sell. Also the recipients of the customer pet food donation bin which is located at checkouts.

The sanctuary has over 600 animals of all domestic varieties, a vetinary centre and facilities for helping wildlife such as an influx of hedgehogs that have recently been brought in underweight and unlikely to survive on their own.

PACT has been a registered charity since 1995 and is one of the largest in Norfolk.

It operates a strict ‘no kill’ policy.

To find out more about the charities work go to www.pactsanctuary.org or telephone 01362 820775.

The website includes information on adopting, donating, volunteering or sponsoring an animal such as the sanctuaries resident Chihuahua Tabitha, pictured being held by Sainsbury’s colleague Charley along with Maria, Tom and Sanctuary Assistant Administrator Su.

April 2014

16 ATTLEBORoUGH

www.attleboroughonline.co.uk

Knitathon To Boost Funeral Homes Charity Challenge Staff at Rosedale Funeral Home are asking people to pick up their knitting needles and get casting on in aid of a host charities who are set to benefit.

For a small registration fee, knitters will receive a registration pack which includes patterns for items such as glove puppets, mittens and finger puppets for the Christmas Shoebox Appeal, dog coats for the Dog’s Trust, catnip mice for Feline Care Cat Rescue and poppies to support the Royal British Legion.

knitathon. She said that she lived alone and having the knitting to do had given her back a purpose in life and made her feel useful again. This got us thinking and we thought how lovely it would be if all our knitters could get together and meet each other and knit together, and so the Knitathon was born.”

For knitters who are new or less experienced scarves and squares for blankets are also required for St. Martins - a local charity supporting the homeless and East Anglian Children’s Hospice.

Throughout the Knitathon Rosedale will be organising ‘Knit & Natter’ gatherings to get everyone together and to hear from the charities that will be the recipients of all the wonderful things that are being knitted.

Mark Hall a Funeral Administrator from Rosedale in Attleborough explains the idea behind the knitathon. “We already have a team of committed knitters who have been knitting for our Christmas Shoe Box Appeal and they often pop in for a chat when dropping their knitting off.”

Non-knitters are also welcome and some of the more experienced knitters will be able to teach them to cast on, decipher a knitting pattern and pass on some of their valuable skills. Mark is the first non-knitter to sign up and has already had his first knitting lesson, from Diana Siviour.

“It was a comment from one of these ladies that sparked the idea for the

“It’s something that people from all ages can take part in and we’ve been quite

April 2014

surprised by how many gentlemen still knit as well. Many knitted items have already been brought into our funeral homes and we are extremely grateful and would like to say a big thank you to all concerned. It really is heart-warming. We would also love to hear from established knitting or craft groups who are keen to be involved and to help us spread the word.”

To find out more about the Knitathon or to register your interest, please call into Rosedale Funeral Home in Attleborough, Beccles, Bungay, Diss, Halesworth or Wymondham.

The knitathon is one of many events being staged by Rosedale Funeral Home in their bid to raise £10,000 to celebrate their 10th anniversary later this year.

You can also follow the knitathon on Twitter @rosedalefuneral or Facebook www.facebook.com/rosedalefuneralhome

Alternatively, you can call Pippa on 01379 640810 or email her at pippa@rosedalefuneralhome.co.uk

@Dispatch_Mag

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East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH) Supporting families and caring for children and young people with life-threatening conditions across Cambridgeshire, Essex, Norfolk and Suffolk.

We’re delighted to be working with Dispatch Magazine and hope to inspire readers to support our cause.

Our care teams help children and their families with the emotional and physical challenges they face, helping them to make the most of life.

Care and support is tailored for the needs of all family members and delivered where the families wish – in their own home, at hospital, in the community or at one of three hospices In Ipswich (The Treehouse), Milton and Quidenham.

A wide range of services are delivered including short-break care, emotional and psychological support, symptom management, care at end of life, bereavement support and many activities and therapies.

We rely on voluntary donations for the majority of our income and need to raise almost £6 million to deliver our services this year.

This amounts to £16,000 a day, every day of the year.

We’re honoured and extremely proud to have HRH The Duchess of Cambridge as our Royal Patron as well as a number of great EACH Ambassadors.

Ed Sheeran and Delia Smith are amongst others who support our cause and help raise vital awareness and funds.

Our largest annual fundraising event, Ride for Life, returns to Thetford Forest on Sunday 11th May and we’re encouraging Dispatch readers to get involved.

We have a new five mile off road cycle route to appeal to cyclists of all ages and abilities.

Bikes, kindly donated by Green Ventures Bikes in Thetford, will be up for grabs for the adult and child participants who raise and send in the most sponsorship by Thursday 31st July.

Mark Loades, EACH Norfolk Partnerships Manager, said: “Ride for Life is a fantastic fun event for the whole family and raises vital funds to ensure we continue to care for and support life-threatened children, young people and their families.”

“The new five mile route will suit cyclists who haven’t been in the saddle for a while or who haven’t cycled before at all. Whether you want to try something new or take the opportunity to get fit – Ride for Life has something to offer everyone.”

The following routes on offer are: off-road cycle: 5m, 10m and 25m

on-road cycle: 19m and 35m and walks: 3m and 10m.

The closing date for postal and online entries is Monday 28th April 2014. To enter online and find out more visit www.each.org.uk/events/ride_for_life or contact the Norfolk Fundraising team on: (01953) 666767 or norfolk@each.org.uk Exciting plans for Norfolk!

We’re planning to build a new children’s hospice in Norfolk to improve the way care and support is provided.

We’ve identified a plot in Framingham Earl and are submitting a planning application – we hope to know the outcome in the spring. To find out more visit: www.each.org.uk/norfolkhospice EACH registered charity number – 1069284 EACH registered Office – EACH, Church Lane, Milton, Cambridge, CB24 6AB

April 2014

18 ATTLEBORoUGH

www.attleboroughonline.co.uk

Sound Sleep Beds An interview with Andrew Bright from Sound Sleep Beds How do you know when its time to change your bed?

Many of us don’t realise that our mattress has become uncomfortable over the years.

I find the best questions to ask yourself are: Do you wake up feeling un-refreshed and aching? Have you slept better in another bed recently? Do you disturb your partner when changing sleep positions?

Do you roll together?

If you answer ‘yes’ to one or more of these questions, then I would certainly think about a new mattress or bed.

How often should you change your bed?

Generally, it is said you need to change your bed every 7 years. If you have a good solid top divan base or slats, usually you can just change the mattress. If your base is sprung, you would need to think about changing the whole bed.

What is the best kind of mattress to sleep on?

This is a very difficult question to answer.

Mattresses are very personal. Before you

April 2014

buy a mattress, its best to speak to one of our mattress specialists who can help guide you. Pocket sprung mattresses are the more supportive mattresses, but these are available with different types of fillings which alter the comfort and support.

What kind of mattress do you sleep on?

I sleep on one of the new Sealy Hybrid mattresses featuring Geltex. It has a zoned pocket spring system with 8cm of geltex, this is a gel infused foam which is heat free and fast reacting. I have this because its the latest mattress technology, as a specialist you need to try these things!

But not only that, when moving beds and lifting all day, I suffer with aches and pains in my back and shoulders and I feel that the geltex takes the pressure off my joints and helps me get a good night sleep.

What’s the key to a good night’s sleep?

Everyone is different, but generally the number one factor is your bed. An uncomfortable bed will always will affect the way you sleep. Other factors which

are equally important are a dark room, a room that is not too warm and peace and quiet. The one thing that disturbs sleep more than anything is your iPhone!

Those late night sounds coming from your phone or the screen lighting up the room are disruptive – even on silent, those vibrations may wake you. Turn it off, facebook and twitter will still be there in the morning!

Beds are expensive, is it better to buy a second hand one?

No way. Firstly, there are beds and mattresses suitable for most price ranges.

Not everyone wants to spend hundreds of pounds on a bed, obviously you do get what you pay for but second hand beds are a big no. It’s not just the bed’s ability to provide proper support that declines with age.

A build up of moisture (we lose a half pint or more of fluid each night) and skin scales (we lose a pound of skin or more a year) makes beds a favourite breeding ground for the common dust mite: bad news for the nation’s 2-3 million asthma sufferers; and a grim thought for those

sleeping on second-hand beds and other peoples’ sweat and skin scales! Not forgetting that many beds made before 1988 don’t even meet the UK’s basic fire safety regulations.

There is lots of publicity about unsafe beds at the moment, how do I know where to get a safe bed?

Anyone buying a new bed from Sound Sleep doesn’t have to worry about that.

All our beds are National Bed Federation approved, so they are safe, clean, hygienic and all meet trading standards requirements. We have informational videos on our website in the ‘Sleep Safe’ section of our website. We work closely with the Sleep Council and The National Bed Federation promoting the new code of practice. Sleep Safe. Sleep Sound. Sound Sleep.

Statistics supplied by The Sleep Council www.sleepcouncil.com

20 AN INTERVIEW WITH...

www.DispatchMagazine.co.uk

George Freeman MP For our April interview, Dispatch Magazine Editor Jonathan spent some time with the MP for Mid-Norfolk, George Freeman MP at his constituency office in Wymondham.

Prior to dashing back to Westminster, where George has to spend Monday to Thursday of each week, George gave us an insight into his role as MP for the area.

George, give us a brief introduction to who you are, what you do.

I am the newly-elected MP for the new constituency of Mid Norfolk. I live in Feltwell, near Mundford, to the SW of Watton, with my wife and two young children.

Having come to Parliament after a 15 year career helping start and finance high growth new businesses in the Eastern Region, I am passionate about the potential of small and local businesses in our region to drive a sustainable economic recovery. I believe we need a new model of rural enterprise and local planning to unlock a ‘Rural Renaissance’ with our market towns and villages thriving and vibrant again.

Since being selected for the new constituency of Mid Norfolk in 2007 as a Prospective Parliamentary Candidate (PPC), and in the four years since as MP, I have championed and campaigned locally on the idea of a rural renaissance through initiatives such as The Norfolk Way (www.thenorfolkway.co.uk) which I founded to promote a new model of rural economic development and planning, campaign for improvements to broadband and to local infrastructure such as the A11 and A47; and promoting the Norwich Research Park and the Norwich-Cambridge Rail line as part of an ‘innovation’ corridor supporting high growth small businesses.

In Parliament I have been elected Chair of the All Party Group on Agricultural Technology, and as the Goverment’s Adviser on Life Sciences have co-ordinated the UK Life Science Strategy for NHS Innovation, and the UK Industrial Strategy for Agri-Tech, with huge opportunities for our areas. Appointed a UK Trade Envoy earlier this year I am also banging the drum for the Eastern Region Economy and the global potential of our Innovation economy.

What brought you to politics?

Love of my country. Responsibility for the world my children are growing up in. Frustation that so many people in our country are being held back from fulfilling their potential.

Disappointment at the collapse of public respect for Parliament. As a child I used to look at the pictures of my great great great Uncle Gladstone and my great Aunt Mable Philipson – the 1st British woman in Parliament, and be inspired by their achievements. I still believe that Parliment and politics matter.

In your opinion, what is the best thing about Mid-Norfolk?

The decency of its people. The history of its churches, villages and towns. The independence and traditional of self-help of its rural communities.

April 2014

@Dispatch_Mag

AN INTERVIEW WITH... 21

How did you get involved in politics?

The seed was sown on a school trip to Parliament , as a lonely and anxious 12 year old child of a then broken and unhappy home, inspired by the idea that there is a place where the nation takes responsibility for its affairs, and that whoever and wherever you are there is a place where your concerns matter.

I worked briefly in Parliament, for the NFU, after university at Cambridge. I decided then that if I ever stood it would be after a career, and not as a young professional politician.

In 2003 I started a campaign called ‘Mind The Gap’ highlighting the danger of growing public disillusionment with politics. In 2005 I joined the Conservatives, stood for Stevenage on a campaign of ‘Positive Politics’ and after getting the 14th biggest swing in the country, had got the bug.

Are you looking forward to the election next spring?

Yes! I love elections. I can’t wait for the opportunity to get out and about for a month on the doorsteps, talk and listen to my constituents about what they’re thinking, find out if they believe I’ve done a decent job, and be accountable to the people I serve. That’s the great thing about politics – whatever you think of MP’s, you can kick us out!

What do you like best about your job?

The chance to represent and speak up for the people of Mid Norfolk who put me in Parliament. The chance to make a real difference locally on issues like my campaigns on Broadband, Post Offices, the A47, the Cambridge-Norwich railway, and Dementia and NHS/Care integration.

What is your ultimate career goal?

To be remembered when I’m gone as a hard working local MP who believed in public service, put back more than he took out, made a real difference to his constituency, and was part of a brave and reforming government which really tackled the country’s hardest problems in welfare, education, and social deprivation.

What three things would you like people to know about you?

1. I’m not a career politician and i was elected age 43 after a career in small businesses 2. My dad won the Grand National. (1958 on Mr What, odds of 33:1) 3. I believe being a member of parliament is an honour and a privilege that demands MPs try and set the highest standards.

Is there a skeleton you want to reveal?

Not really! I have collected too many points on my driving licence from speeding past cameras (never in my constituency and only on well known dual carriageway speed traps but still something I’m not proud of)

What do you consider to be your greatest career achievement to date?

Being elected to Parliament by the people of Mid Norfolk.

If we at Dispatch magazine could give you a magic wand and grant you one wish, what would it be?

QUICK FIRE ROUND

1. To not die young like my father.

2. To have the time to be able to knock on the door of every one of my 76,000 constituents, and visit all 114 villages more often, whilst also having more time for my wife and young children.

3. To know that my children were going to grow up healthy and live happy lives, and not resent my politics too much!

Tea or coffee:

Tea.

Wine or beer:

Tricky... Wherry with Fish Pie. Wine with my Wife.

Favourite song:

Nina Simone - Let It Be Me.

Favourite Film:

Lawrence of Arabia.

Last book read:

William Boyd: Waiting for Sunrise.

Favourite holiday location: Burnham Overy Staithe, for annual sailing holiday.

Favourite food:

Picnics.

April 2014

22 Homes & gardens

www.DispatchMagazine.co.uk

Make The Most Of Your Retirement We are all living longer and planning to do more with our free time... ..But a changing economic climate and pension provisions mean many people don’t often have the money to realise their retirement dreams.

Equity release is beginning to play an important role for home owners aged over 55 and in my experience the most important factors for people seeking advice is to demonstrate and be able to guarantee the following: • There must be a ‘no negative equity guarantee’ to safeguard your beneficiaries • You have the right to sell your home at any time to down-size or move into other accommodation, the amount owed is then repaid with any balance transferred to your bank account • No monthly payments are made, as interest is rolled up on a lifetime mortgage. If a Home Reversion plan is more suitable you would sell a proportion of your property and remain in your home for life with no roll up of interest on the percentage of the value retained.

• You are able to remain in your own home for as long as you wish • Money borrowed will be at a fixed rate of interest for life, is tax-free, and can be used for any purpose There are many reasons why people raise money using Equity Release: to repay an existing mortgage, home improvements, buy a motor home, travel abroad, help their children with house purchase or to enhance their own lifestyle. Before making any decisions you are advised to seek independent professional advice from a person qualified and approved by the FCA. This can be checked on the FCA Register: www.fca.org.uk/register or telephone 0800 111 6768.

you to discuss and reflect on the advice given. In my opinion you should not make any decision at the first meeting. This should be to establish whether the person giving you the advice is acceptable to you or not before asking him or her to obtain further information specific to your own needs.

It is an FCA requirement that Keyfacts are given to you and thoroughly explained, this may be from two or three providers to assess the most suitable before making your decision to apply for either a lump

sum of money, income or to secure a facility that will allow you to draw down sums as and when required. There are many options available to you hence the reason why it is necessary to be fully informed.

For further information please call me on 01508 483983 or visit my website: www.businessmattersifa.co.uk - My FCA number is 301141 Michael Boon Cert PFS CeMAP CeRER member of the Equity Release Council

Before deciding whether Equity Release is suitable for you, your questions should be answered to your total satisfaction, be prepared to take time over this, never be rushed into something if you are in any doubt. If you are single or living on your own, consider inviting a friend or a family member to be with you. This will enable

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April 2014

@Dispatch_Mag

HOMES & GARDENS 23

Norfolk Wildlife Trust Bluebells Swathes of indigo bluebells flowing across the woodland floor are an iconic part of Britain’s natural history, and Norfolk is fortunate is having several sites where this fantastic spectacle can be enjoyed.

Bluebells are a native species that have a special place in our imagination.

Writers like the Brontës, the nature poet John Clare, and later Romantics such as Gerard Manley Hopkins have all commemorated these delicate flowers in verse.

the shadows lie deepest, but paler blues, even greys, where certain slants of light find their way through the canopy.

Bluebells first flower in April, but the dates can vary considerably from one year to the next. For instance, 2011 saw a relatively early first flowering of April 12th; 2013 was at the end of the month. Once flowered though bluebells are no fly-by-nights, with their blooms lasting well into May.

The reason we are so affected by them is apparent once you have stood in a spring woodland, sunlight filtering through the dappled layers of shade to illuminate the mass of blue that blankets the ground.

A number of places in Norfolk are home to spectacular bluebell shows including Lower Wood Ashwellthorpe (near Wymondham), Thursford Wood near Fakenham, Wayland Wood near Watton (home to the babes in the wood legend), and Norfolk’s largest remaining ancient woodland: Foxley Wood, between Norwich and Fakenham.

All these sites are fabulous places to visit in spring. As well as bluebells, other wild flowers will be in evidence,

such as wood anemones and wild garlic, often known locally as ramsons.

These pretty, but pungent, white flowers favour damper, shadier corners, making a beautiful contrast to the bluebells.

Spring is, of course, also the time when our woods are at their noisiest.

Visit early in the morning and the dawn chorus will be in full sway: the rattling drumming of great spotted woodpeckers, the repetitive onomatopoeia of newly-arrived chiffchaffs, and the bubbling song of the blackcap.

Norfolk Wildlife Trust owns Foxley Wood and the other nature reserves mentioned above. Entrance is free throughout the year (from dawn till dusk) to all of them, though Foxley is closed every Thursday for essential conservation work.

On closer inspection the flowers themselves are as bell-shaped as their name promises, though exquisite and ephemeral, sent swaying by the slightest breeze. Their colour seems equally unfixed, rich and purple where

For information on visiting and details of events taking place see our website:

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24 Homes & gardens

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Norfolk YFC Countrysiders Have fun, learn and make new friends!

Countrysiders is the junior section of the Norfolk of Young Farmers and is for young people aged 10 -16 years, who want to meet friends, and have fun whilst trying new activities. We have fourteen clubs around the County meeting fortnightly on week nights between 7 and 8.30pm. The first 2 meetings are free for new members and thereafter just £2 per meeting attended.

The clubs get up to many exciting activities from Pizza making to Bring a pet; Farm visits to Sports. You name

April 2014

it - we will give it a try! We also have many competitions throughout the year including Ultimate frisbee, public speaking, mock farm auction and laser shooting.

Social events play a big part in our calendar and these include a conservation campout weekend – those attending take on fabulous tasks like bridge building, making owl boxes, woodland clearance to name just a few.

Another annual event is the Countrysiders Ball when it’s time for

the members put on their party outfits, enjoy a 3 course meal and dance the night away!

encourage integration and enhance personal well-being, self-esteem and confidence whilst having fun.

Countrysiders also offers great training opportunities held during school holidays. These include a 3 day tractor driving course; a 2 day introduction to welding & engineering and Lambing and Dairy courses too. All information is on our website: www.norfolkyfc.org

You don’t have to have any connections with farming or agriculture to join - you only need to want to make new friends!

Our main aim is to enable our members to develop and learn new skills, to

We are looking forward to meeting you!

If this seems like something that might interest you, a friend or someone down the road, do let them know.

@Dispatch_Mag

HOMES & GARDENS 25

Reduce Your Utility Bills With A Cashback Card It’s Free to have and can save you 25% OFF your monthly utility bill.

Get this FREE card AND reduce your Utility Bills by a further 25% by just using the Utility Warehouse Discount Club Cashback Card, when you go shopping for every day items in many high street shops.

You can also save a massive 4p per litre off fuel when you fill up at Sainsbury’s.

Here are some key facts about some of the main uses and benefits of our exclusive CashBack card: • Earning CashBack: We now have 42 CashBack card partners with thousands of stores around the UK, including many leading retailers such as Sainsbury’s, M&S, Boots, Argos, and Debenhams, and many many more.

• Budgeting: The CashBack card is NOT a credit card – it’s like a debit card that you load your money onto before you use it. As you can only spend money once you’ve loaded it onto your card, you can’t accidentally

get into debt. It makes it easier for families to keep within their monthly household budget, while earning valuable CashBack off their next utility bill from us.

• Topping Up: There are lots of ways to top up a CashBack card. You can arrange an automatic top up for a fixed amount each month.

You can request an auto top up, which will add a fixed amount you’ve chosen onto your card every time the balance falls below a level you have selected.

Or you can top up manually, by simply calling our automated telephone service or logging into the online Clubhouse.

• Sibling Cards: It’s midnight and your teenage daughter has been out with friends and doesn’t have the money to get home. Or she’s stuck somewhere overseas and needs some money urgently.

Our sibling cards are the answer!

They allow you to send money to her instantly and securely, by simply logging into the Clubhouse, and topping up her card using your own debit card. The money will be available immediately for her to use (even if she is overseas at the time). They each have their own separate balance, but you can still fund them from your own bank account or debit card; and any CashBack they earn comes off your bill!

• Emergency Cash: You can even use your CashBack card to withdraw cash in an emergency from any LINK cash machine. But it’s not something we’d recommend doing too often, as you won’t be earning CashBack and there’s a £1 charge for each withdrawal.

So… If you want to take advantage of the many benefits the Cashback card has to offer AND reduce your utility bills by a further 25% every month, simply call the local Utility Warehouse authorised distributer; Jonathan Horswell on - 07802 690589 or email - save@Utility-Bills.co.uk and he will pop in to fully explain how the Cashback Card works.

• Partner Cards: Partner cards allow two people (for example, a husband and wife) to each have separate cards on the same CashBack card account.

It works in exactly the same way as a joint bank account, where each partner has their own cheque book or debit card, but there is only one pot of money for them to share.

April 2014

26 Homes & gardens

www.DispatchMagazine.co.uk

Conservatory Too Hot? Apprentice Aircraft Mechanics Are The Envy Of Former Classmates The papers are saying that this could be the hottest summer on record Chance would be a fine thing! But even if its an average summer conservatories all around our beautiful county will be getting hot, some of them very hot!!!

the buzzing accompaniment of 1000s of insects that comes with it is not. The best way to protect your conservatory is by stopping the heat in the first place.

When the sun comes out and the mercury rises the temperature in your conservatory can get up to very hot and therefore, unusable.

Our conservatory blinds have a simple way of keeping the heat, the harmful UV rays and the glare out of your conservatory leaving it cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter.

Over the years glazing has improved drastically but still we get lots of calls from people wondering what can be done to keep their conservatory cool...we have the answer, thermal conservatory blinds.

How they work Once radiant heat from the sun has entered your conservatory it will stay in there until it either it convects into another room, conducts into something else or is displaced by cooler air from an air conditioning unit or from open windows.

While a gentle breeze blowing through open windows can sound quite appealing,

Being made to measure each blind is made to fit your roof perfectly so the whole surface is covered and looks fantastic.

The upper side of the fabric has a solar reflective paste applied to it which reflects the heat from the sun keeping the air below cool, uv free and relaxing!

For more information call Alastair on 01379 669209 or visit - www.villagegreenblinds.co.uk

Three young men from Long Stratton and Mulbarton have landed apprenticeships with a wow factor at Norfolk’s flagship aircraft maintenance company, KLM UK Engineering.

Kier Murray and Alex Rawlingson, who both live in Long Stratton, and Aled Murrell from Mulbarton, were selected from more than 200 applicants for prestigious earn-while-you-learn roles as apprentice aircraft mechanics.

Kier and Alex attended Long Stratton High School and Aled is a former pupil of Thorpe St Andrew High School. Alex also attended Diss High School.

The envy of their former school-mates, the trio are among 13 eager trainees who are delighted to be getting stuck into the first year of a four-year Advanced Level 3 in Aeronautical Engineering.

- Village Green Blinds and Shutters.

Arjan Meijer, Managing Director of KLM UK Engineering, said: “Our Advanced Level 3 Aeronautical Engineering Apprenticeship remains an extremely important future source of recruitment for our company.

“We are pleased to have been able to increase the number of apprentices this year and look forward to watching them develop over the course of the next four years.”

The successful applicants range from 16-year-olds who left school last

April 2014

summer with GCSEs, 18-year-olds with A levels and others who have previously worked elsewhere before landing their dream appointment.

KLM UK Engineering has a successful track record in apprenticeship programmes. Ten percent of its 375-strong workforce began as apprentices.

Several ex-apprentices are now in management positions with the company, some of whom have racked up more than 25 years’ service with the company.

The apprenticeship programme was restarted in 2007 after a 10-year break. Since then every apprentice who has graduated from the course has been offered a permanent position within the company.

KLM UK Engineering will hold an Open Day on Saturday 29 March to start the selection process for the next intake of apprentices.

To book a place visit www.klmukengineering.com and click on the link www.klmukengineering.comeze.com

@Dispatch_Mag

WHAT’S ON 27

Mystery Machine Heads To Norwich For Ghostly Investigation Scooby Doo – The Mystery Of The Pyramid Beware ghosts, ghouls and the scarily sinister. Those game ghost-hunters Scooby Doo and his friends are heading back to Norwich in a brand new adventure.

They find themselves having to deal with mysterious Egyptian mummies who are protecting an ancient pyramid plus the risk of being turned into stone if they dare to approach the imposing stone structure.

The Mystery of The Pyramid sees Scooby and friends Shaggy, Fred, Velma and Daphne take their brightly-coloured Mystery Machine on a brand new adventure to the land of the Pharaoahs.

Get set for an all-action show for all the family when the production arrives at Norwich Theatre Royal on April 1416. The show will feature 90 minutes of hilarious comedy, great tunes and stunning special effects featuring a cast of top performers.

It is the iconic children’s character’s first visit to Norwich for around five years.

His last show The Pirate Ghost held its worldwide premiere in the city early in 2009 attracting lots of media attention and even saw Scooby and his friends make a flying visit to the Forum.

Monday 14th to Wednesday 16th April at 6.30pm. Tuesday and Wednesday matinees at 2.30pm. Tickets £5.50£22.50. Discounts for Groups. Underthrees go free.

To book, call the box office on 01603 63 00 00 or log onto www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk

John Bultitude, of Norwich Theatre Royal, said: “This is a brand new adventure for a ghost-hunter and his friends who have been sniffing out spooks for generations.

“For those who loved the original cartoon series and those who are discovering Scooby for the first time, this is a great chance to enjoy a high-energy feelgood adventure guaranteed to leave a smile on your face.”

Indulge Your Passion For All Things Gardening Suffolk Plant Heritage’s Spring Plant Fair At Helmingham Hall, Sunday May 25th, 10.00am – 4.00pm The annual Spring Plant Fair, organised

by Suffolk Plant Heritage in partnership with Helmingham Hall will be held in the beautiful grounds of Helmingham Hall on May 25th 2014 Great Plants to Buy A wide range of unusual and popular plants will be available from over 50 nurseries, local National Plant Collections and the Suffolk Plant Heritage propagation group, which will be selling rare plants, some not offered for sale elsewhere.

Pollinators’ project; ‘Growing Meadow Flowers in your Garden’; ‘Brilliant Dahlias and ‘Vegetables to Sow in Midsummer’. Our Plant Doctors will be available to offer advice on any gardening topic, to identify your mystery plants and plant problems.

Entry to the Plant Fair and Helmingham Hall Gardens is £6.00 per adult.

Children are free.

Location: Helmingham Hall is 9 miles NE of Ipswich on the B1077. Post Code IP14 6EF

Garden and Home Ornament Visitors can also browse among a wide range of exhibitors offering everything from hand tools to soap and garden furniture to sun hats.

A Free Plant for 800 Visitors A plant of Liatris aspera, the ‘rough gayfeather’, will be given to the first 800 visitors to claim them. With attractive spikes of feathery purple flowers, it was used in the beautiful naturalistic plantings at the Olympic Park in 2012.

Eat, Drink and be Merry The Plant Fair gives the whole family a full day out, live music, a dance tent, home made teas and lunches as well as a range of food stalls. Visitors can enjoy the Grade 1 listed gardens of Helmingham Hall, with walled kitchen garden, herbaceous borders, roses and ancient deer park.

Lots to Learn The Garden Marquee will host Gardening Workshops, including the RHS introducing their ‘Perfect

Tours of the gardens with Lady Tollemache, tickets £15 each, are bookable from the Helmingham Estate Office tel no 01473 890799

April 2014

New Members of the gang

Appearing in stores from

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eastofengland.coop/stores

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@Dispatch_Mag

FOOD & DRINK 29

South Norfolk Local Flavours helping buyers to support local produce South Norfolk is bursting with talented food and drink producers, from the kitchen table cupcake makers to some of the largest food businesses in the country. All contribute to a diverse and flavoursome mix of great food, making the area one of the most talented food producing areas in the UK. South Norfolk Local Flavours is part of South Norfolk Council’s Market Towns Initiative which brings together resources and expertise to support local market towns and businesses in the district.

Martin Wilby, deputy leader of the council said: “The idea behind the project is all about making it easy for food and drink buyers keen to support local producers, to meet and sample their goods. The idea of meeting in one place will relieve, for many, the pressure of trying to source locally in such a diverse market.� “This supports the work that we are already undertaking with our partners to

ensure that our Market Towns are in the best shape possible to attract shoppers, tourists and businesses, now and in the future.�

The event, which is aimed at buyers, will take place on 4th April at Bressingham Steam Museum, Near Diss. Attendees are invited from hotels and restaurants, catering firms, tourist attractions, anyone responsible for food in the hospitality arena plus food retailers, locally and nationally, passionate about sourcing produce from the region.

fresh and it’s cheaper,� King explained.

(Source FPJ June 2013).

Many of the local supermarket chains as well as the major nationals have made it a policy to promote local produce on their shelves.

For instance, through the “Sourced Locally� initiative the East of England

Co-op are active in putting more local products on their supermarket and food store shelves than ever before, working with East Anglia’s finest producers, large and small, to source quality products from across our region.

To register to attend or if you would like a stand please call the Lively Crew on 01603 702374.

A survey by research agency Kadence proved the use of seasonal ingredients and locally sourced produce is the single most influential trend in chefs’ current thinking.

Selena King, insight director at Kadence International, explained that supporting local production was a key consideration for chefs today.“Chefs like to feel they’re doing their bit in sourcing local, but actually it’s also because it’s

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April 2014

30 CLUBS & SCHOOLS

Chapel Road School Pupils to open shop in Attleborough Town centre Chapel Road School, Attleborough, have recently embarked on a new and exciting venture and will be opening a new ‘School Charity shop’.

The shop, named ‘Gifted and Able’, will be located in a prime position in Exchange Street, Attleborough.

The purpose of this new project, is to further develop and improve our pupils’ life- and learning skills.

The senior pupils will have the opportunity to work in the Shop and socialise within the community, communicate with the public and take

2014 Open Morning Looking for childcare options for your little one? Come and chat to our team.

Our open morning is being held from 9.30-11.30 on Wednesday 2nd July at our rooms in Roydon Village Hall.

Everyone is welcome to pop long to see a session in action, chat to the staff, ask any questions you may have and have a look around.

“The setting provides a welcoming, safe, secure and stimulating environment where children are happy, build confidence and are well supported in their learning and

April 2014

development” Said OFSTED after a recent visit and appraisal. “The high staff ratio ensures all children receive high levels of attention and support, enabling them to develop to their full potential” “Children are happy, confident and enjoy learning through their play. Their learning and development is supported well by practitioners who have a good understanding of how to capture children’s interests and engage them in play”

part in practical real life skills, such as dealing with goods and money.

A shop manager will also be employed to work alongside the pupils and the schools’ teaching assistants.

High quality, on-going opportunities to develop practical skills and experience work related learning are the key drivers for this project.

The school has received huge support from The Friends of Chapel Road School and the Wymondham Rotary Club and we have received some very positive and encouraging support from the general public.

The School is also looking for volunteers to help and support the School in setting up the Shop, and volunteers to help in the Shop when it opens.

If you would like to volunteer, help or support the School, please call the School office on 01953 453116

The shop will be officially opened by George Freeman MP, a keen supporter of the school, on Friday 9th May at 11.00 a.m.

If you need any further information, please do not hesitate to contact me.

32 ELDERLY

www.DispatchMagazine.co.uk

Care In Crisis Is social care on the brink of disaster?

Age UK today publishes a damning report which shows the disastrous depths that the crisis in care has reached and its distressing human cost.

The evidence and analysis set out in the report ‘Care in Crisis 2014’ shows the real depth of the problems with social care and support for older people in England today. The report reveals that despite rising demand the amount spent on social care services for older people has dropped by a massive £1.2 billion (15.4 per cent) since 2010.

Since then, to help compensate for substantial wider cuts in local government budgets, £438m was transferred from the NHS budget to local authorities. However, this still leaves a shortfall of £769 million, even if every penny was spent on social care, which is unclear.

Many older people who struggle with everyday tasks such as getting up in the morning, bathing, preparing meals or doing the shopping are assessed as only having ‘low’ or ‘moderate’ needs and so

April 2014

do not get any help. The consequences of this tight rationing are that from 2005/6 to 2012/13 the number of people aged 65 and over in receipt of social care services dropped by a staggering 27.2 per cent - from 1,231,000 to 896,000 - even though the population in this age group has grown by more than one million.

The trend in reduced access to care at home and community services is particularly stark as fewer and fewer older people now have access to this type of support that could enable them to remain in their own home for longer.

In 2010 the Personal Social Services Research Unit at the London School of Economics estimated that there were at least 800,000 older people who needed help with everyday tasks but who did not receive any formal social care support.

This figure is expected to have grown substantially since then as the number of people receiving help has fallen sharply at the same time as there has been significant growth in the numbers of older people likely to need care, those aged 85 and over.

Between 2005/6 and 2012/13 the number of older people able to access local authority funded day centres fell by 49 per cent, from 136,000 to 69,100, and the number of older people receiving home care fell by 21 per cent, from 489,000 to 384,600.

The publication of the Age UK report comes as the Care Bill enters its final Report stages in Parliament. Age UK believes that the Care Bill is built on sound principles and that it could represent a significant step forward for older people who need care, but there is a huge risk of the reforms being fundamentally undermined by wholly inadequate funding.

In this time period, a third of councils have been forced to reduce the number of people who have access to their services by over 40 per cent.

Data comparing the number of local authority supported service users on the 31 March 2005/6 and 2012/13 show that -

• The total number of older service users supported by local authorities dropped by 35 per cent from 845,000 to 548,000.

• The number of older people receiving community services fell by 35 per cent from 645,000 to 418,000 • The number of older people receiving residential and nursing services fell by 17 per cent from 200,000 to 167,000.

Increasing financial demands on those who receive services arranged by local councils: • In the last 3 financial years average fees and charges have increased by over 16 per cent, despite the fact that there are fewer service users. This figure includes partial and full self-funders who pay for their own care which is provided by the local authority or independently.

To join the campaign or for more information, go to www.ageuk.org.uk/careincrisis or call 0800 169 6565.

@Dispatch_Mag

ELDERLY 33

Better Interest Rates Top Banking Wish List For People In Their Eighties And Above.

The top banking issue for people in their eighties and over is current low interest rates according to an Age UK survey, hotly followed by access to bank branches.

The survey found that 37 percent - more than one in three - of people aged 80 and older want better rates on their savings accounts. The findings, just days after the fifth anniversary of the Bank of England’s decision to cut interest rates (or base rate of inflation) to 0.5 percent, underline the importance for this age group of making the most of their savings. At a time of rising energy and fuel bills, savings may be the only source of income beyond the state pension for many in their eighties and above.

The Age UK survey also highlights the continued importance of the branch network to older people. 79 percent of those aged 80 and over still have their main account with the branch of a high street bank or building society, with only five per cent using an online account.

The survey comes on the eve of the Charity’s summit on financial resilience

among those aged 80 and over. Financial resilience enables people to withstand challenges that may crop up in later life.

Despite being the fastest growing sector of the population, those aged 80 and over are often overlooked in terms of financial services. Age UK’s survey reveals that only 20 percent of those aged 80 and over feel they get a personal service from their bank or building society.

The summit is part of the Charity’s Financial Services Commission and was inspired by Lord Filkin’s report last year which warned that Government and society are “woefully unprepared for the UK’s ageing population.” The Commission brings together Government and leading industry figures and is consulting with older people on ways to build up financial resilience and prepare for later life.

and final summit takes place in London on March 18th.

Age UK Group Chief Executive Tom Wright said, “There are 1.4 million people in the UK aged 85 and over and the number is expected to double in the next twenty years. Yet the financial services sector is not geared up to recognise the importance of this group of people who currently account for £121 billion of spending a year. It’s time to change that and ensure that like the rest of the population, the financial services industry treats our older people as the valuable customers that they are.”

Dr Alexander Scott, Chief Executive of the Chartered Insurance Institute

and Co-Chair of the Financial Services Commission said, “Responding to this challenge will call for some innovative solutions from the sector, including a fundamental rethink in terms of categorising and offering products and services to suit this changing market.

Whereas now the sector views its offerings in terms of specific classes of products: current accounts, mortgages, savings, investments, and equity release; customers at this stage in life experience them in much less clearly defined ways.

Developing this new approach is going to need a cross-cutting discussion, and so this group representing different parts of the sector is a good place to start.”

The commission will launch its findings on 25th June.

The first summit in December 2013 focused on how to help those approaching retirement build up adequate savings. The second in February looked at those who have recently retired. The third

April 2014

34 MOTORING REVIEW

www.DispatchMagazine.co.uk

By Tim Barnes-Clay, Motoring Journalist | Follow Tim on twitter @carwriteups | www.carwriteups.co.uk

New Subaru Outback The new Subaru Outback is a joy to drive.

It has a more premium feel than its predecessor, with soft padding now covering up the slabs of plastic that once festooned the cabin.

The car is styled in a masculine way too.

Previously it looked a little insipid but now there’s a definite authority about its stance. This is accentuated by Subaru’s signature bonnet scoop, which gives the impression of a car with power under the hood. Also, emphasising the Outback’s sense of toughness and its ability to tackle all roads and conditions, the latest model features body-coloured cladding in place of the previous iteration’s black plastic.

The ride is typically Subaru – Velcro-like grip and a slightly cushioned feel thanks to the comfortable seats. In fact, as part of its 2014 upgrade, the car’s handling characteristics have been enhanced with revised suspension components and the latest incarnation of Subaru’s Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC). This technology, along with alterations to the front and rear suspension, gives a stable on-road feel.

In addition, the Outback fills you with confidence in the wet or the snow – or indeed on anything without a pasting of tar. Subaru’s legendry all-wheel-drive credentials just work – no fuss – no fiddly buttons – the technology simply kicks in whenever you get to slippery terrain.

The most significant change for the Outback is the introduction of a new

April 2014

powertrain pairing. A world first, Subaru engineers have combined the popular 2.0-litre Boxer diesel engine with a Lineartronic CVT (continuously variable transmission) automatic gearbox. The result is mixed; the power is there alright, but it’s released in a way that doesn’t really blow you away.

car with more gadgetry to keep it from straying off the road than the average new motor.

The engine steadily cranks up the clout until you’re over the maximum speed limit without even realising it. That’s kind of disappointing, because if I’m going to get a speeding ticket I want to know it was worth it.

The upgraded cabin of the current Outback features clearer and more modern instrumentation. It includes the addition of a liquid crystal instrument cluster display and new materials for a number of dashboard elements. Black metallic panels bring about a more modern and quality appearance and feel, while a power-sliding glass sunroof and UV protected front, side and rear glass also feature.

With the new engine and gearbox combination the fresh Subaru Outback can return an average fuel consumption of up to 44.8 mpg whilst emitting 166g/ km CO2. The figures aren’t astounding, but they’re not bad - especially for a

The car I drove, the Subaru Outback 2.0D Lineartronic SX, has flagship levels of standard equipment inside and out.

For the exterior there are new 17-inch gunmetal alloy wheels, along with bodycoloured power folding door mirrors (with

integrated LED indicator repeaters), and matching colour-coded door handles.

Silver roof rails and a roof spoiler are other external accents. What’s more, selflevelling automatic headlamps and rain sensing wipers add extra convenience.

Phew! That’s a lot of car then – and so, when you think about it, £31,495 isn’t really that outrageous a price. Especially when compared with German models of the same ilk.

PROS ‘N’ CONS • • • • •

Good-looking √ Ride √ Grip √ MPG could be better X Co2 emissions still need improvement X

FAST FACTS • • • • • • • •

Max speed: 121 mph 0-62 mph: 9.7 secs Combined mpg: 44.8 1998cc 4 cylinder 16 valve Boxer Diesel Max. power (bhp): 148 at 3600 rpm Max. torque (lb/ft): 258 at 1800 rpm CO2: 166 g/km Price: £31,495

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Competition 37

Dispatch Facebook Competition We’re giving local businesses the chance to have a free featured quarter page advert in return for a simple ‘like’ on Facebook The importance of Facebook

In mid December we launched a campaign on Facebook to spread the word about Dispatch Magazine.

We invited people to ‘like’ our page in return for an entry into a competion to win a free quarter page sized advert in all of our magazines at every milestone.

We are pleased to announce that our Second winner is Kevin Jarvis of Cleaning Doctor - your local carpet, curtain and upholstery cleaning and restoration specialist in the Norwich Area.

We will announce the next winner once our page reaches the next milestone, their advert will then feature in the current magazine at that time.

To enter your business/club/facilities/ect. into this competition please visit our facebook page and click ‘like’ at the top Facebook.com/DispatchMagazine

Facebook is here to stay and if you have a small business you cannot ignore it. For the present generation, who spend a lot more time on the internet than on the TV, brands need to change their approach.

Research shows that mobile data users are spending about 75% of their browsing time on facebook.

Websites now allow you to sign in using their Facebook connect option, just further adding to the level of involvement Facebook has with so many people now.

It is not going away, so if you want to be taken as a serious business, you need to get serious with facebook.

People can find your site online and they can also find your facebook page. More and more people are going to facebook as a sort of “check” to see how legit your business is.

Competion Winner

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April 2014

38 DISPATCH BUSINESS DIRECTORY

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April 2014

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April 2014