Wym May 2011

GENERAL

PR ICE LE SS agazine.co.uk

ISSUE 044 Dispatch May 2011

NEWS FOR WYMONDHAM, DEREHAM & WATTON RESIDENTS

WI N er-Shot

b A Sony Cy Camera In Our petition m o C T X E T For e See Insid ... s il Deta

www.wymondhamonline.co.uk

www.derehamonline.co.uk

www.wattononline.co.uk

www.DispatchMagazine.co.uk

GENERAL News

Dispatch May 2011

News from across your region

Text

Competition

May 2011 Issue 044

04

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

WIN A SONY CYBER-SHOT 12.1 MEGAPIXEL COMPACT CAMERA

Editor In Chief: Jonathan Horswell Advertising Manager: Jayne Ashby Sales Team: Stephanie Lees, Rebecca Tomlinson and Lucy Olcot. sales@DispatchMagazine.co.uk Design: Matt Bignell, Mark Bryant and Colin Jeffery. design@DispatchMagazine.co.uk

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

Distribution:

In this issue FEATURES

WYMONDHAM

DEREHAM

12

An Interview With...

Penny The Founder Of Mini Monkeys Gym.

04

16

Enter Our New Text Competition

05

www.DispatchDistribution.co.uk

© Dispatch Magazine Disclaimer: No part of this magazine may be reproduced or used in any form or by any means, either wholly or in part, without the prior written permission of the Publisher.

The views expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of the Publisher. Every effort is taken to ensure that the contents of this magazine are accurate, but the Publisher can not assume any responsibility for errors or omissions.

13

21

13

Text To Win A Sony Cyber-Shot 12.1mp Digital Camera.

21

Homes & Gardens Looking After Your Property.

The Regal Experience Due To Screen...

“She Wore A Yellow Ribbon”.

Prince’s Trust Team Programmes.

18

Wymondham Town Guide

Welborne Arts Festival Arts, Music, Circus, Sport, Dance.

2011-2012.

08

Ex Services Social Club Membership Has Increased.

WATTON 20

Watton’s Queens Hall State-Of-The-Art CCTV System.

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.

Follow Us:

@Dispatch_Mag

See Our Website

Deadline for all editorial and advertising submissions for the next issue will be:

May 13th 2011 Dispatch May 2011

www.wymondhamonline.co.uk

Welcome to

WYMONDHAM Wymondham’s Priory Gardens Bowls Club

The Regal Experience

Reaches Its Golden Anniversary Season.

There is a chance to see one of the most beautiful Westerns ever made.

2011 sees the Priory Gardens Bowls Club’s 50th full season. The club was founded in 1960 by a retiring GP, Dr. George Gaynor, to encourage the retired of his working area to remain active and enjoy social contact.

Membership of over 55s is comprised of residents from Wymondham and 24 surrounding parishes. The busy club holds regular afternoon’s roll-ups, competitions within the club around the area.

Planning permission for the club’s proposal has been granted by South Norfolk District Council and they are now seeking to secure the funding required.

The Regal Experience Group are due to screen She Wore a Yellow Ribbon on Sunday 22nd May (2.30pm) at the Old Wymondham Regal Cinema, now part of the Ex-Services’ Club.

For further information contact Brenda or David Woods on 01953 602414.

In the 1949 movie, which won an Oscar for best colour cinematography, magnificent Monument Valley in Arizona provides an awe-inspiring setting. Along with Fort Apache and Rio Grande, the film was one of legendary director John Ford’s U.S cavalry trilogy. It stars John Wayne as an officer nearing retirement, Joanne Dru, Ben Johnson and Harry Carey Junior.

The members put a great deal of effort in to the upkeep of the central Wymondham club and are currently aiming to renew the facilities which have been in-situ for almost the whole of its 50 years.

Dispatch May 2011

Among the supporting shorts is an evocative little gem – Sunday by the Sea.

Shot at Southend over two weekends in the Summer of 1953, including the August Bank Holiday, it recalls those cheap and cheerful seaside excursions of yesteryear right down to the candyfloss and saucy postcards.

Tickets for the show are available from Maureen Dodman on (01953 605593) or Michael Armstrong (01953 603246) and at the Wymondham Heritage Museum.

They are priced £5 (concessions £4).

News from across your region

Wymondham Town Guide 2011-2012 A valuable source of information and a ‘Must Have’ encyclopedia for Wymondham residents is the Official Town Guide.

Work is about to start on the new issue for 2011 - 2012 and is once again being complied by the Dispatch Magazine team who have produced the last two issues.

The Town Guide carries valuable information and a comprehensive list of contact details for all activities, clubs, organisations, groups, events and businesses based in Wymondham.

If your details are currently listed in the current Town Guide, we will automatically add the same information into the new edition.

If however the details are different to those currently listed, please do send us the up to date information to editorial@DispatchMagazine.co.uk or call the office on 01953 456789 and speak with Lucy.

If you are a business in Wymondham and you would like to get your details to every resident in the town, advertising is available and a necessary part of the guide to ensure funds are available for printing.

Last issue cover for illustration purposes.

The Kitchen Centre The Kitchen Centre Wymondham has been established since 1993.

Over the years they have supplied and installed hundreds of kitchens in Wymondham and the surrounding areas, resulting in most of their work coming from recommendations.

The company offers a professional friendly service. Pauline Henderson, the proprietor, personally deals with the customers from the main design of the kitchen to overseeing the whole project. Pat deals with accounts,

Jane with all secretarial and computerised drawings, and Susan covers the office on Saturdays.

The company uses locally made high quality rigid units, with self closing drawers and doors, supplies all styles of worktops from laminates to granite and corian and deals with most brands of appliances.

Dispatch May 2011

www.wymondhamonline.co.uk

WYMONDHAM News

Windmill House Windmill House is a new purpose built care home situated at the heart of Wymondham community, it is part the Runwood family.

Our reputation is founded on the skill, motivation and commitment of all our staff teams.

Our success stems from the quality of care provided by our staff and through this attention to detail, the Runwood Care Home Group continues to flourish within the Health and Social Care Sectors in the UK. We provide privately funded services whilst also working in close partnership with Public Social and Healthcare organisations.

We take great pride in delivering care to meet the individual needs of our residents to the highest standard possible with respect and dignity at the core of all that we do.

Our Ethos is that Care Homes are for living in and can be a hive of activity or a sea of tranquillity depending on the needs of those in our care.

We will be welcoming our first residents on 26th April 2011 and our trained staff

Dispatch May 2011

eagerly await meeting such wonderful people and being given the privilege of sharing their lives. We provide residential care for those who need that extra support each day and we can offer a specialised care for those living with dementia through our LIFE programme (Living in Full Engagement).

It is a philosophy with an innovative, creative and positive approach to this complex illness.

Our LIFE programme begins the moment someone has decided to come and live with us, we focus on the person and not the illness.

It is by learning the likes, dislikes and life history of our residents that provides us with a unique picture to develop the individualised care plan to enable the best quality of care.

Windmill House is no ordinary care home, Liz Fleming, the Home Manager has many ideas to transform the already unique features, it has its own LIFE and Internet Café, which she is looking to become a

hub of activity reaching out to the local community.

Our gym is available for gentle and/or active exercise for those who wish to try something different. Every room has its own en-suite with shower, but for that nice relaxing bath we have specially equipped and very large bathrooms.

Comfortable lounges and a beautiful conservatory looking out at the raised flower beds are just some of the features you will find at Windmill House.

At every Runwood Home learning about

our residents and their experiences leads to a variety of activities available to the residents, to give a guide we have Tai Chi, dancing, singing, movies, bingo, cooking, cleaning, growing our own vegetables and fruit, cards, chess and even car washing!

The staff of Windmill House are looking forward to becoming an integral part of the wonderful community in Wymondham.

We would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone we have already met for their support and we hope to continue to build on the friendships we have already made.

A Night Of Rock & Roll With Showaddywaddy.

Date: Friday 27th May Time: 7.30pm – 10.00pm Venue: Central Hall, Back Lane, Wymondham Tickets are £19.50 available from

Reeves, 2 Market Street, Wymondham or by calling 01953 600563.

All profits to East Anglian Air Ambulance Registered Charity No: 1083876

www.wymondhamonline.co.uk

WYMONDHAM News

Tastes Of Wymondham Wymondham And District Ex-Services Social Club You are all invited to this wonderful event that will be held at Wymondham Central Hall and King’s Head Meadow on June 25th from 11am to 3pm.

Anna Brett the Extended Schools Coordinator for the Wymondham cluster of schools has put together a community event that promises to be fun, filling and entertaining! There will be free food and drink, free craft activities, as well as singing, music and drama to watch.

“I have been supported by all my schools who are either producing food, art or entertainment for the day” she said “Many local businesses including Co-op, Waitrose, The Mad Hatter’s Tea Shop, Kiddycook, Cookery Skills and Arber Music have also offered their time and products free of charge. I have had support from local groups such as The Heritage Society who will be offering reduced entrance to the museum on that day if you attend the event, as well as Hope Church, The Children’s Centre, South Norfolk Council, Wymondham Town Council, Wymondham Lions and

local Scouts and Guides”

There will be plenty for all the family to do and bring along some money because you will be able to make purchases from Farmer’s market stalls, Jarrolds, Jamie at Home and Spitfire Hog Roast.

You can have your face painted and the Tastes of Wymondham recipe book will be available to buy. This has been put together by Wymondham High School and features recipes from the local community.

As an Ex-services Club, we were formed in 1992 by our founder member and Patron, Major Charles Ayton of Wymondham who had served with distinction in the 1st world war.

Thank you to everyone who has supported this event, especially all those working behind the scenes to make it a success. For more information or to join in the fun, call Anna Brett on 07545 502167.

From small beginnings to where we are today, we are fortunate to have a large membership of several hundreds of ex-military and honorary members and in recent months our membership has increased, maybe due to our very competitive beer prices!

the water pipes up in the roof over the function rooms burst and we suffered a tremendous amount of flooding, which forced us to close down the room and cancel several bookings and engagements.

Sadly, we are still losing some of our more senior people, and our committee has had to move with the times and adjust to the need of the members, but always with the goodwill and the management of the club in mind. Inconsequence, we now have ladies on the main committee and their input gives us all a more balanced view.

Presently, in-house activities include on a weekly basis: Club Bingo every Tuesday evening, Line Dancing every Wednesday and then we have our darts teams, cribbage team, pool team, live dancing on different Friday evenings in the function rooms, and monthly quiz nights are soon to begin again. April 29th-1st May we held our annual Beer Festival, which is always a great success.

Sadly, due to the very inclement cold weather just prior to last Christmas,

REACH OVER 19,850 WYMONDHAM & DEREHAM HOMES AND BUSINESSES

CAN YOU AFFORD NOT TO ADVERTISE HERE? Dispatch May 2011

Luckily, we were covered with insurance, and now have completely restored room again which has been fully re-carpeted and repainted with repairs to some of the ceiling which as you might guess, with several tons of water above came crashing down, luckily no one was hurt in any way. So, on May 14th, we have decided to hold a ‘re-launch’ of the opening of the renewed function room, time: 8.30pm till late with live music from the 60s and 70s. Tickets are available at only £3.00 per head and we sincerely hope that many of you will be able to attend and enjoy good company and a really first class music evening. Tickets are always on sale in the main club-house bar.

We will be again holding a military weekend this year, the date of this event to be confirmed nearer the time in the local press.

In conclusion, we all are working hard to get through this very difficult financial period and with the dedication of the members of the committee and with all of us pulling the same way for the benefit of our many members there is only one outcome, which has got to be the continuation of our club for many years to come.

See you all again very soon, Michael Hayes Treasurer

News from across your region

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

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

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

Bookings can also be made by calling 01379 642147.

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

Dispatch May 2011

www.wymondhamonline.co.uk

WYMONDHAM News

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

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

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

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

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

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

10 Dispatch May 2011

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

Wicklewood Bowling Club For a sociable pastime.

Wicklewood Bowling Club was started by a group of villagers in 1972/3 at the rear of the village hall on a plot of land bought from the parish council. Fences were erected, a green was laid and a club house built by the members. In later years the green was extended to give a better length for playing EBA. A watering system was also installed to enable the whole green to be watered at one go in times of dry weather and to enable fertilizer to be watered in as required.

To help raise funds and to quench the thirst of bowlers and spectators a licensed bar was incorporated into the club room. In the last couple of years a port-a-cabin changing room has been purchased & improvements carried out to the club room, including a new roof.

Thanks to grants obtained from ‘Norfolk Community Foundation Grassroots Grants’ and ‘South Norfolk Council’.

After sadly losing our green keeper, a founder member of the club, who mostly single handed, maintained the green to a high standard, we have brought in a professional firm.

Wicklewood Bowls club play in three leagues, namely ‘Men’s EBA, Ashill Mixed EBA & Attleborough and District Mixed Triple Federation, as well as a number of friendly and cup matches, both internal cups and against other clubs. These are all keenly fought for.

Club membership is available to all ages and sexes for playing members as well as social membership for those that just like a friendly club atmosphere and a drink whilst watching a game. The club is always looking for new members.

If you are interested in joining please contact the Chairman Colin on 01953 606045 or Richard Goodings on 01953 605864 or Ron and Cynthia Lansdell on 01953 605935 or just turn up at the club general meeting on Wednesday 6th April @ 7.30pm in the club house behind Wicklewood Village Hall.

Green opening night for the summer season will be Saturday April 30th from 5.00pm onwards for a roll-up and a B-B-Q.

News from across your region

A Weekend Of Freedom To Be Transformation Through Themselves Sound With Chris James

Hethersett independent school pupils praised in recent report.

14th/15th May - 9.30am to 4.30pm.

Chris James teaches internationally about the healing power of sound, song, voice and medication.

Everyone is born with a beautiful voice”.

Through discovering our natural voice, we learn to trust our creativity and intuition, speak our truth and be heard.

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

Develop self-empowering listening and speaking skills.

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

Venue: Bunwell Village Hall, The Turnpike, Bunwell, Norfolk, NR16 1SN Cost: £180 Everyone welcome, no experience of singing or music required. Musicians, Singers, Healing Practitioners, Artists, Teachers, Carpenters… infact, everyone will be inspired. www.chrisjames.net

Pupils at Hethersett Old Hall School, one of the county’s notable day and boarding schools, have been praised for their good behaviour and attitudes to learning by school inspectors.

The recent report on the school states that “The personal development of pupils is outstanding. Relationships of trust and respect are central. They ensure excellent learning and very high standards of behaviour.”

features” overall. Provision for the youngest pupils was judged “outstanding” in the EYFS section of the report. Inspectors remarked that “There is an excellent balance between adult-led and child-initiated activities, giving children the opportunity to develop their independence.”

The overall conclusion of the report is that the school is a happy, well-run community of confident and successful learners who are given ‘space to grow.’

Elsewhere in the report academic achievement is singled out as a strength of the school “In 2010 most (pupils) achieved considerably above their predictions in GCSEs. The percentage of A* and A grades has steadily improved since the last inspection.”

Inspectors commented “A number of lessons were inspirational’, with teaching judged to be “good with some outstanding

Dispatch May 2011 11

www.wymondhamonline.co.uk

“

An interview with...

Penny the Founder of Mini Monkeys Gym anniversary. Our classes are now becoming word of mouth and our happy members are our best advertising. With currently over 250 members word is spreading fast!

Above: Penny, Founder of Mini Monkeys Gym 1. So Penny, How long have you lived in the area?

I was born and grew up mostly in Norwich but spent my teenage years in the US and most recently lived and worked in Germany as a Preschool teacher. I moved back to Norwich in 2008 and I’m loving being back in the fine city!

2. How long have you been running Mini Monkey Gym classes?

We launched in February 2009, so we have just celebrated our 2 year

3. What inspired you to provide children’s soft play gym classes?

With a young daughter of my own and having years of experience in the preschool sector I was looking to create a unique gym class with all soft equipment that would benefit children’s natural exploration and confidence in a safe and fun way. Our soft gym classes use specially designed equipment on a completely matted area and are perfect for under 3’s as they learn to crawl, balance, jump and tumble.

4. What do you enjoy most about managing Mini Monkey Gym? Although I now have 3 members of staff who help me teach the classes I still like to join in the fun and teach whenever I can. It’s really rewarding building

”

relationships with the families and seeing the children progress through each stage of the Mini Monkey Gym programme.

5. What is involved in the Mini Monkey Gym programme?

Our professionally developed soft playgym programme incorporates different movement themes each week using specially designed colourful soft obstacle courses and equipment.

Our weekly themes give children the opportunity to practice a new skill such as jumping, balancing, rolling, sliding, going backwards, crawling through or climbing in and out.

Pre-crawlers have fun with movement activities to strengthen their bodies including rocking, rolling, standing, pull ups, and tummy time! We use different props each week to compliment the movement theme such as, ribbons, beanbags, hula hoops, transparent scarves and holed balls. We engage in circle time and the parents and children have lots of fun with our active musical movement, parachute play and bubble time.

We follow the same structure each week, which promotes recognition for children and builds their confidence to join in with the circle time and parachute play. Our classes are very relaxed and friendly so children join in when they are ready.

6. What age groups do you specifically cater for in your classes?

We offer classes for newborn babies all the way to 5 year olds. Baby Monkeys for newborn – 6 mths, Little Monkeys for 6 mths- 18mths, Cheeky Monkeys for 18 mths – 3 years and Funky Monkeys for 3 –5 years.

The age groups work really well and the children graduate up to each stage when they are ready. Its always fun to see the children grow and develop their confidence through each stage of the Mini Monkey Gym programme. Our Little and Cheeky Monkey classes are the most popular and are a great way for parents and children to spend time together and socialise once a week. I always say that our classes are as much for the parents as they are for the children and lots of our members have made some really good friends through coming to Mini Monkey Gym.

12 Dispatch May 2011

7. Where are the classes held and how can people get more information?

The classes are currently held at the UEA Sportspark, Norwich on Mondays, Wednesday and Fridays. For more information people can look on the website, www.minimonkeygym.co.uk or contact me directly on 07917 872205.

We are also on Facebook. Everyone is welcome to come along for a no obligation free trial too.

8. What plans do you have for Mini Monkey Gym in the future?

Well, we started with only 3 classes a week and now offer 8 classes over 3 days in Norwich. This year we will also be offering summer classes so Mini Monkey Gym will be available all year long! The future is bright so watch this space…….!

9. What do you do in your spare time?

I enjoy having lots of family time. I love heading out to the North Norfolk coast, taking a picnic and relaxing. Roll on summer!

10. Which famous person’s child would you like to entertain at Mini Monkey Gym? There’s too many to choose from! Anyone famous who knows the importance of movement for little ones and of course enjoys the fun of Mini Monkey Gym!

Text Competition Enter The May TEXT Competition To Win...

A SONY CYBER-SHOT 12.1MP DIGITAL CAMERA Sony Cyber-Shot W310 Compact Digital Camera Enjoy sophisticated photo-taking capabilities with the stylish Sony Cyber-shot W310 Compact Digital Camera.

Encased in a durable black brushed metal exterior, the 12.1 mp Cyber-shot W310 Compact Digital Camera boasts a wide-angle 28-112mm lens. This 4x optical zoom range is ideal for capturing subjects near as well as far, be they stunning nature shots or fun Facebook pics. Don’t worry too much about camera-shake either: the incorporated image stabilisation helps to take care of that, keeping your pictures pin-sharp and blur-free.

Choose from a wide selection of shooting modes, depending on your ability or level of camera-wielding confidence. The Sony Cybershot W310 offers an Easy Shooting mode for beginners, plus an Intelligent Auto mode optimising all camera settings automatically to suit your subject. Select from 7 scene modes to get the best from a variety of photographic scenarios.

February’s Winner...

Of The Amazon Kindle is

Answer The Following Question: What Megapixel is the Sony Cyber-Shot W310 Compact Camera?

12.0, 12.1, 12.2

Simply Text Your Answer:

12.0 / 12.1 / 12.2

78070 To

Dispatch Editor, Jonathan Horswell presen ts the

...Tracey Newby from Wymondham!

prize to...

s!

Congratulation

The closing date is May 31st 2011.

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

Dispatch May 2011 13

www.derehamonline.co.uk

Welcome to

dereham Clever Adverts

Cottage Windows Ltd

Can you imagine YOUR perfect High Street?

Well, you can now with highstreethawk.co.uk.

Cottage Windows Ltd is a small family business with a growing reputation in the Dereham area.

Highstreethawk.co.uk is a website allowing YOU to follow your favourite shops, bars, hairdressers, beauty salons, restaurants and more to keep updated with their latest offers, products and promotions.

Tony started the company in 2009 after working for a local firm for over 8 years and with his son Robert, installs top quality doors, windows and conservatories to a high standard at competitive prices. We can also offer a wide range of composite doors and we fit ‘A’ rated glass as standard.

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

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

So if your business is a novice when it

14 Dispatch May 2011

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

We are launching in the market towns of Diss, Harleston, Attleborough and Wymondham in March and the website is designed to keep people in touch with their high street. So show your support for your favourite shops by signing up to highstreethawk.co.uk.

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

Cottage Windows Ltd is a member of Network Veka, a voluntary organisation within the double glazing industry, which monitors members’ work and covers all guarantees. This means, that should a member cease trading, Network Veka will arrange for another firm with the same high standard of workmanship to carry out any repairs.

So your guarantee is worth the paper it’s written on.

Because of our local building contacts, we are able to offer a complete service for conservatories or garden rooms.

We can either put our customers in touch with local builders or deal with the builder on the customers’ behalf.

If you are considering replacing your windows and doors or maybe adding a conservatory or garden room, please call Tony for a free, no obligation quote on: 01362 860331 or 07595 507244.

News from across your region

Getting What You Bargained For

By W F Smith and Co Consultant Roger Sharp. simple enough but it is when a train is late or cancelled that people become aware of the “small print”. Some cases can be quite complex involving many types of obligations, timescales, payment provisions and multiple parties.

Above: Roger Sharp We all make contracts, every day; when we buy food, get a ticket, work for a living, or fill our cars. They are the basis for modern living. A contract comes into existence every time someone agrees with another to do something in return for something else (usually, but not always, a money price) as long it is not something illegal. The reason it is important to recognise these relationships as contracts is because they are enforceable in law with penalties for the one who does not perform his/her side of the bargain.

It is vital to know exactly what one is bargaining for. In cases like buying a train ticket the terms of the deed seem

What are the essentials of a contract?

Lawyers say there has to be an offer, an acceptance, consideration for the deal (the price or something of value given in return) and an intention on the part of the contracting parties to create a legally binding deal. The parties must also have legal capacity; a child cannot be sued.

A passenger on a bus makes an offer to be carried for the fare which the bus company may accept or refuse. A shopper offers to buy something at the price stated; the shopkeeper is technically free to accept or refuse the offer.

Contracts do not, except in very limited cases (such as consumer credit or buying land) have to be in writing but a document is very helpful in showing what the contracting parties intended when they entered their bargain. A bus ticket is a document and it usually refers to

standard terms and conditions. The more complex the deal the more the need for a written agreement is needed. A person may ask a builder to do some work on a house. If there is no document how is it proved what should be paid and when or what material should be used.

The law does help in some cases, usually involving consumers, by ‘implying’ terms into contracts in respect of quality or fitness for purpose but generally the courts leave it to the parties to make their own bargains and will not interfere or re-write terms freely negotiated. If you buy a car in a private deal you must satisfy yourself as to its condition and the suitability of the price before handing over money. The same applies to buying a house.

You cannot simply walk away from contractual obligations that you later regret entering. Not complying with obligations to do work, to pay the price, or complying with a time scale are all breaches of contract and the ’innocent’ party can ask the court for money to compensate and even in some cases

force performance. That power is particularly used in land sales.

In many cases the parties are not of equal bargaining power; an ordinary person dealing with a multi-national bank for example. In general the law takes no notice of the relative sizes of the parties.

We are assumed to have freely agreed to accept the bank’s terms and conditions even though we have no say whatsoever.

Standard terms and conditions must be read and understood before signing up to a contract. It is vital also to differentiate between things said in publicity ‘blurbs’ and the contract; it is the contractual terms that take precedence.

Before entering a contract check all the vital terms are in writing; who is doing the work, what it will entail, what is the price (a quote, not an estimate!), when is it payable, what is the timescale, what circumstances allow for delay (force majeure)?

If presented with a contract that is difficult to understand, do not sign it. Get advice on its meaning and effect.

Dispatch May 2011 15

www.derehamonline.co.uk

DEREHAM News

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

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

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

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

16 Dispatch May 2011

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

News from across your region

Increased Recycling Facilities In Dereham Recycling rates in Breckland have been given a boost with the installation of new, on-street facilities in Dereham on 5th April. will be emptied fortnightly at the same time as household recycling collections.

The bins will not accept glass or contaminated items.

Above: New recycling unit at Cowper Road car park.

In partnership with Dereham Town Council and Serco, Breckland Council has situated the new recycling units in high use areas so that residents are able to recycle whilst on the go.

A twin station recycling unit has been placed on the Town Council’s Recreation Ground, behind the Esso fuel station and accessible from Lynn Hill.

A second unit has been installed near the toilet block in Cowper Road car park.

The new bins will accept clean paper, cardboard, cans and plastic bottles and

Breckland Council Environmental Services Officer for Street Cleansing, Dale Wilder explained; “Breckland has provided this additional facility so that residents can recycle whilst on the go. They can dispose of a plastic bottle they are drinking from or perhaps a paper they have just finished reading”.

“The latest full year figures which show that Breckland residents achieved a waste recycling rate of 41%. The installation of these new units demonstrates Breckland Council’s commitment to improving recycling rates and to making it easier for our residents to recycle”.

Utility Warehouse The Utility Warehouse Discount Club is operated by Telecom Plus PLC, a major British company whose shares are listed on the London Stock Exchange.

The Utility Warehouse provides its members with great value, great savings and the best possible customer service.

Perhaps it’s not surprising that in a recent survey, over 94% of Utility Warehouse customers said they would recommend them to a friend.

The Utility Warehouse is very different to other suppliers. They don’t have any high street shops and because (unlike their competitors) they don’t spend customers’ money on expensive advertising campaigns on TV or in the national press, they can afford to charge their customers less for the same services.

Recently the Utility Warehouse has introduced a unique Price Promise.

It means you can benefit from: • The UK’s cheapest Home Phone • The UK’s cheapest Home Phone and Broadband bundle • The UK’s cheapest Mobile tariffs • The UK’s cheapest standard Gas and Electricity

Or they will give you back Double the Difference! Other benefits of being a Discount Club member include: • Savings on everyday shopping & petrol • UK’s cheapest online shopping • Free calls to UK and international numbers • Save over £50 on your line rental compared to most BT customers • Award-winning customer service • Unique Share and Save plan • One bill for all your services So if you want to save money on your bills please get in touch for a no obligation chat. It’s what we do best – we talk to our customers as friends not numbers Contact Malcolm on 0800 458 9218 or visit www.malcmills.co.uk Charges, terms and conditions apply. For full details of the Utility Warehouse Price Promise and contracted services see www.malcmills.co.uk

Dispatch May 2011 17

www.derehamonline.co.uk

DEREHAM News

Welborne Arts Festival Norfolk June 18th & 19th – Arts, Music, Circus, Sport, Dance.

The 9th Welborne Arts Festival, near Mattishall, the biggest village-based contemporary arts festival in Norfolk, returns on Saturday, June 18 (11.30am-6pm) and Sunday, June 19 (11.30am-4.30pm) with a packed programme of arts, music, circus, sport and dance.

The event is staged every two years, around the beautiful 11th century All Saint’s Church. Admission to the festival is adults £5 and under 16 free.

South Norfolk’s Circus Ferrel, described as “East Anglia’s brightest friendliest all human show”, will be pitching its Big Top at the festival and will run two shows a day on the Saturday and Sunday.

Circus characters will entertain and engage you on the meadow in the morning and between shows. Circus Ferrel is also running a programme of circus skills workshops in local schools,

care homes and day centres in the run up to the weekend. Dance workshops in the schools run by Norfolk Dance will result in a performance in the Big Top on June 18th.

The Big Top will also host a ceilidh with Pendragon on the evening of June 18, from 7.30pm to 10.30pm (tickets £8, under 16s £2, tel. 01362 858770), and there will be a barbeque with locally sourced produce from 6.30pm.

Pendragon’s big sound blends ancient and modern instruments and tunes from Europe and beyond to create an irresistible dancing mix.

Full instruction in all dances is given – dancers only need to know their left from their right.

Mike Webb, Festival Organiser said: “We are really pleased to be back with another Welborne Festival. In the year before London 2012 and the Cultural Olympiad we have organised an exciting programme of circus, dance and sport, as well as visual art, music and literature.

We are looking forward to record crowds

heading to Welborne in June”.

• Kensington Lodge Farm Equestrian Centre will present quadrilles to music.

Festival Highlights • Circus Ferrel performances in the Big Top on the meadow each day.

• Town Crier Tony Nelson returns – on loan from Sheringham.

• Joy Whiddett will be exhibiting her willow figures in the churchyard and inviting you to participate in weaving another one – an Art Alive in Churches project.

• Norfolk Dance project featuring performances by children from Mattishall, Yaxham and Garvestone Schools.

• Norwich Print Fair and Breckland Artists exhibitions and the regular villagers’ exhibition.

• Unlaced - clothing and the female form, an exhibition including (paintings, textiles, ceramics and sculpture) curated by Krys Leach.

• Literature – readings from local authors in the church • Celebrities from the world of sport and journalism including an interview with BBC local radio presenter Helen McDermott • Live music from local musicians each day.

• Craft activities for children and demonstrations from the visiting artists.

• Pendragon evening ceilidh in the Big Top on 18th June.

Contacts of festival organisers: Mike Webb, tel. 01362 850327, festivalartswelborne@tiscali.co.uk, Margaret Boulton, tel. 01362 850492 welborneartsmargaret@gmail.com, festival website: www.welborne.org.uk.

Where Is A Website?

When considering legal action regarding material which is on the Internet, often one of the most difficult questions one has to face is that of where the material is ‘made available’.

18 Dispatch May 2011

Since a website can be physically situated anywhere, where ‘is’ the website?

The ruling has implications for anyone wishing to take action against a website owner.

In a recent case, the court made a preliminary ruling that the place a website ‘makes available’ it’s content is the place where the website’s server is located.

Contact Hood Vores & Allwood on all aspects of business law.

Welcome to

WATTON

Norfolk Fire And Rescue Service Free Helpline: 0800 9178137 Norfolk Fire & Rescue Service is committed to keeping you safe from fire.

We recognise that only a small minority of people will experience a fire in their home during their lifetime.

Unfortunately when fire does occur it can have a devastating effect on all those involved.

We also recognise that in Norfolk people who are more likely to suffer from the effects of fire are over the age of 65.

It is for this reason that we would strongly recommend you to take us up on the offer of a Free Home Fire Safety Check and Smoke Detector fit.

Please allow one of our trained volunteers to talk to you about fire safety in the home and where required our technicians will fit as many smoke detectors as they deem necessary all free of any charge.

ever having to experience the devastating effects that a house fire can cause.

We also provide specialist Smoke Detectors for the hard of hearing which again will cost you nothing.

Let us take this opportunity to re-assure you that this is a genuine offer directly from Norfolk Fire and Rescue Service and Norfolk County Council, it is not a scam

Please also note that all Fire and Rescue Service personnel and our Partners will carry ID with them at all times.

and nobody will try to sell you anything.

Please also be re-assured that whilst this is a golden opportunity to take us up on our offer, if you are unable to do so at present the offer will not expire.

For once you will actually get something for nothing and all you have to do is contact the free phone helpline using the number at the top of this article to make an appointment that is convenient for you.

The visit will only take between 30-60 minutes of your time and remember this service is free and may prevent you from

Dispatch May 2011 19

www.wattononline.co.uk

WATTON News

CCTV Camera For Kerry Butcher Watton’s Queens Hall Accountancy Services The power of Breckland Council’s state-of-the-art CCTV system is being harnessed by residents in Watton to ensure they enjoy a peaceful summer.

Following a decision by the newly formed ‘Watton CCTV Group’, one of Breckland Council’s CCTV cameras was moved to Queens Hall on the 19th April.

From here it will cover the Queens Hall car park, Memorial Way, Memorial Gardens and the car park opposite.

The group decided to take this pro-active approach to help prevent the seasonal problem of boy racers and anti-social behaviour, often experienced in these areas with the arrival of longer, lighter nights.

The Group has members from across the local community including residents, businesses, Norfolk Police, Wayland Chamber of Commerce, Watton Town Council and Breckland Council.

Funding of £540 has been provided by members of the Group to cover the cost of the pole and fixings to support the CCTV

20 Dispatch May 2011

camera. Grahame Green, Community Safety Officer for Breckland Council said; “Breckland set up these new area CCTV groups in order to capitalise on local knowledge. Group members have the on-the-ground knowledge of community safety issues in their particular area and are well placed to work with their local Safer Neighbourhoods Team to decide what measures are needed” The Watton CCTV Group meets quarterly and works with Breckland Council to reduce anti-social behaviour and improve safety in Watton.

Anyone who would like to join the Group or find out more, should contact Breckland Council’s Community Safety Officer, Grahame Green by email: grahame.green@breckland.gov.uk or telephone 01362 656870.

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

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

I would like to try and do just that as I pride myself in doing a good job whilst trying to save you money.

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

To help the first meeting with me is free so why not give me a call and see what I can offer this tax year.

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

That has got to be a bonus!

Maybe you fancy a change this year, it is said that a good accountant should be able to save you money on your tax bill at least equivalent to their fee and hopefully more.

You might be surprised how much money you can save.

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

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

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

Lay it at an angle beneath your coffee table.

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

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

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

Has just taken stock of their new range of quality vanity units.

All available in a high gloss white finish or 3 different wood effects there is something that suits everyone’s space within their very own bathroom.

All units come with a ceramic slab top washbasin which makes cleaning easy and maintenance free.

With sizes starting at 400mm for the small cloakroom unit and up to the large 1000mm bathroom unit you are spoilt for choice.

Along with the floor standing units our new brochure shows a wall hung version as well.

To complement these new vanity units we can also supply a full range of mirrors and cupboards. This can also be supplied

with a built in cornice which features lights and a shaver point within.

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

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

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

Dispatch May 2011 21

www.DispatchMagazine.co.uk

Homes & Gardens Ask An Expert

Myhills Pet & Garden

Quick fix fabulous!

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

If you want to create a wow factor without spending a fortune consider painting wooden floorboards rather than covering them up with carpet or tiles. You can choose any colour you like and change it whenever you like too. Make sure that the floor is clean and dust free before you start.

property development projects. The Dulux Design Service can help create a fresh new interior at any time of year. With the colour expertise you’d expect, the Dulux Designers aren’t tied to any brand so they can source a fantastic range of fabrics, furniture, flooring, lighting and accessories.

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

Use Dulux quick drying all-purpose primer/undercoat and once dry, a couple of coats of your favourite colour in Dulux Diamond Eggshell. Both are quick drying, super tough and solvent free. Try not to paint yourself into a corner though!

Readers interested in finding out more about the Dulux Design Service should visit www.duluxdesignservice.co.uk or call 0845 880 6888 to arrange a free initial meeting with their local designer.

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

Stephen Lait based in Norfolk is an experienced interior designer with over 10 year’s practical experience; he undertakes residential, commercial and

22 Dispatch May 2011

All stores offer a fantastic range of pet foods and accessories and large garden line range for the keen gardener. The Dereham branch offers a huge fishing tackle department

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

All of the Myhills Pet & Garden shops (except Watton) also have a range of small animals for sale. Myhills also run a local delivery service 1 day per week at each shop when they will be pleased to deliver to you – please contact your local branch or visit www.myhillspetandgarden.co.uk for more information on the service.

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

News from across your region

Can’t Afford To Move, How About Updating?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Dispatch May 2011 23

www.DispatchMagazine.co.uk

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

Whilst planting choices will provide beautiful fragrance, sound, colour and texture, the fundamental hard-landscaping features should not be forgotten as these form the main static structure of the garden. Consider the following:

encompass your needs by creating a garden to match your lifestyle - whether you prefer modern and contemporary or timeless and traditional, we can fulfil your requirements.

• The sound of water gently trickling over time-worn pebbles • The scent of fresh pine bark nuggets retaining moisture at soil level • The feel of warm natural stone paving under foot continuing onto a cool dewkissed lawn • The taste of a good Chardonnay as you relax in your beautiful, sense awakening garden

and our flexible approach means we can always meet your requirements for all aspects of landscaping. As we are also the driving force behind Paving Superstore (www.pavingsuperstore.co.uk) and Anglian Garden & Building Supplies (www.gardenandbuilding.co.uk), both selling huge volumes of hard landscaping materials across the UK, including paving from Marshalls, Bradstone, Brett, Stoneflair, Stonemarket, Pavestone, Global Stone, Strata and Natural Paving, decorative stone, sheds, summerhouses, log cabins, garden features, hot tubs, pergolas, fencing, water features and lots more, you can be sure all our materials are at online prices, offering great savings!

At Georgina Read Design & Landscaping we specialise in transforming gardens

So why not let our award-winning, fully qualified landscaping professionals

We are a local landscaping company and have now expanded to include building

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

Welcome To GP Landscaping & Building Maintenance Using the best quality materials which last the longest! maintenance. We cover Norfolk and surrounding areas and offer a combined 30 years experience, undertaking all types of work, for both domestic and commercial customers.

The majority of the work we carry out has been secured via recommendations from previous very satisfied customers and building contractors.

We use the best quality materials, honest work methods and can cater for all tastes and budgets.

If you are interested in receiving a no obligation quotation or seeing a portfolio of our work then please call us on 07971 771204 or 01362 688159.

24 Dispatch May 2011

News from across your region

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

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

You will still need to keep a close eye on the weather forecast, bedding plants are not hardy, this means that they will suffer quite a knock back if an unexpected frost gets to them. If you have already planted out and are concerned about the cold you can always cover your plants at night with some frost protection fleece or similar.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Think of how you like to entertain & for how many people.

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

Considerations to take into account when

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

Keep your cooking style in mind, so that an often used BBQ isn’t inconveniently placed.

Consider pet requirements such as the need to keep a dog confined. Keep this list on hand as you make your decisions on design & material choices.

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

Dispatch May 2011 25

www.DispatchMagazine.co.uk

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

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

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

26 Dispatch May 2011

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

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

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

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

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

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

News from across your region

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

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

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

So what flowers should you be planting?

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

Furthermore, you can always bring them indoors during the winter and enjoy them again next summer.

Annuals As the name suggests, annuals will only last for one season and will need to be replace thereafter, for this reason they are relatively inexpensive to buy.

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

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

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

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

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

Welcome To Simply Bespoke...

Incorporating Leons’ Pine Care.

Simply Bespoke are a small family business based in Attleborough, Norfolk, producing solid wood furniture and kitchens in soft and hardwoods.

The Finest Quality Handmade Pine Furniture, made to measure, stained, waxed or painted. Oak and other hardwoods also available.

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

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

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

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

worktops in laminate wood or granite.

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

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

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

Dispatch May 2011 27

www.DispatchMagazine.co.uk

Homes & Gardens

Care And Maintenance Of Your Lawn Mower If you have a lawn mower and want to make your investment last it needs to be regularly maintained, this will keep it running more efficiently which in turn will save you money.

Does your mower not start as well as it did? Does it run poorly? And is the quality of the lawn cut not as good as it was?

Here are a few simple tips to help you keep your mower in tip top condition.

Always try to use fresh fuel, fuel older than 30 days starts to deteriorate it loses octane and gains moisture which can lead to gum deposits in the carburettor causing poor engine performance. If you plan to leave your mower for any length of time you should use a fuel additive which will prolong the life of the fuel and prevents build-up in the carburettor.

Replace the engine oil and oil filter as per manufacturer’s instructions but usually about every 50 Hrs. Check the engine oil level every 5 hours and top up if needed.

28 Dispatch May 2011

Replace the spark plug every 100 Hrs, plug type and gap can usually be found in the operator’s manual. Service the air filter every 25 hrs or every season, whichever comes first, if the filter is dirty then the mower may run badly and could also cause damage. Remove the filter and gently tap it on a flat surface if the filter is very dirty, replace it with a new one.

Service your deck and blades, it’s a good idea and safer to remove the plug lead from the sparkplug before commencing any service work on the deck or blades.

Keep your deck clean and free from debris especially if your mower mulches, as a clogged deck will not mulch efficiently.

Clean your deck with soapy water and a garden hose, it’s easier to clean if done regularly and will keep your deck from

corroding prematurely. Keep your blades sharp, this will make your mower more efficient and also give a better finish to your cut grass. Never attempt to sharpen the blades while still attached to the mower. Blades should be sharpened evenly taking special care to keep them balanced. An unbalanced blade will leave an uneven cut on the lawn and could eventually lead to mower or engine damage.

Self propelled mowers or ride on mowers need a little more attention, they have drive belts which need to be check for wear or damage and also pulleys and belt idlers which have bearings that can become seized or worn. They often have gearboxes which have oils that need checking or changing. Ride on mowers

often have grease points on the steering axle and also Pneumatic tyres which should be checked for correct pressures.

By caring and maintaining your lawn mower you will make cutting the lawn a more pleasurable and hassle free experience and the quality of your lawn will reflect this. If you haven’t the time or feel that your mower needs that extra special attention give us a call at Cranworth Farm Services and we will make sure your mower is ready for the season a head.

CARING FOR THE ELDERLY York House Is A Care Home For Elderly Men And Women Who wish to live in pleasant surroundings with the benefit of 24 hour care.

The home is able to accept both private and social services funded residents and is staffed by a dedicated and highly trained team.

York House has recently completed an extensive extension and refurbishment.

The majority of the 38 bedrooms have en suite facilities. All bedrooms are furnished to a very high standard and residents are encouraged to bring in their own personal belongings to make it more like a home.

The Home provides a range of assisted bathrooms, showers and accompanying mobility aids. The Home also has two very spacious lounges both offering large flat screen televisions. The dining room is light and airy offering a full choice of daily menus. A balanced and nutritious diet is offered with emphasis placed on

fresh homemade meals. Hot and cold drinks and a range of snacks are available throughout the day. The homes menu is created by discussions between the residents and staff.

The dignity and independence of each resident is promoted within all of the Company’s Care Homes.

For more information please contact us on 01362 697134 or our website www.blackswan.co.uk.

Activities and residents parties are organised and held on a regular basis.

York House is owned and professionally managed by Norfolk based company Black Swan International Limited that owns and manages 10 care homes in Norfolk and Essex.

They are an experienced care operator that prides itself in putting residents needs and feelings first. It has a vast amount of knowledge within the industry and is extremely flexible in its approach to dealing with everyday living.

Dispatch May 2011 29

www.DispatchMagazine.co.uk

CARING FOR THE ELDERLY Barchester Care Home At Hethersett Hall we provide first-class 24-hour residential care alongside expert care for people with dementia in our Memory Lane Community for the elderly. Day care and respite care can also be arranged.

Our team of highly-qualified and attentive staff really focus on the individual needs of our residents with a tailored care plan for each person. Our dedication can be seen across the board - in our cooking, hospitality and through the broad range of daily activities and events organised for our residents Our exciting new initiative, as part of the Barchester group of care homes, is Fitness with Care - a new innovative practice to support the care of our residents.

Fitness with Care is a major Barchester initiative designed to deliver an activity programme which is positively benefitting our residents and increasing their health and well-being. We’re

30 Dispatch May 2011

delivering Fitness with Care in partnership with Help the Aged.

‘We’re working with Barchester on the Fitness with Care initiative to help older residents improve their overall health.

The initiative is so important because our bodies are never beyond improving and respond surprisingly well to lifestyle changes, whatever our age. Keeping fit also forms part of a holistic approach to living life to the full in our later years.

Physical exercise not only means we stay mobile for longer, but also has a significantly positive impact on our psychological well-being.’ - Dr Lorna Layward, Help the Aged.

And key findings from independent researcher Prof Emeritus Roger

Clough have shown that Fitness with Care brings increased activity, more socialisation between residents, and between residents and staff. Another finding was that the Nintendo Wii games and DS Lite provided very new and fun experiences for residents!

Hethersett Hall is late Georgian home, which boasts stunning views across the park to the surrounding woods and fields. Here, we enjoys all the benefits of the Norfolk countryside and yet we’re close enough to the A11 to make it easily accessible to family and friends.

We think you’ll find we’re ideally suited to meet your needs now and in the future to ensure you get the most from your retirement years. Why not arrange a visit and see for yourself!

Our home is rated ‘Good’ by the Care Quality Commission (CQC). The CQC is the independent body that regularly inspects all care homes in England. It now publishes the ratings it awards each home - excellent, good, adequate and poor.

REACH OVER

61,00A0L

POTENTI CUSTOMERS

HERE!

CALL 01953 456789 NOW!

Dispatch May 2011 31

www.DispatchMagazine.co.uk

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

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

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

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

32 Dispatch May 2011

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

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

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

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

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

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

Dispatch May 2011 33

www.DispatchMagazine.co.uk

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

Low cost display advertising to meet the smallest budget.

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

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

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

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

This will mean from then it will be an offence to keep an uninsured vehicle, rather than merely to drive when uninsured.

If it appears that a vehicle has no insurance or SORN, an Insurance Advisory Letter (IAL) will be sent to the registered keeper advising them what they need to do. If the reminder is

34 Dispatch May 2011

ignored, authorities can issue a £100 fine; have the vehicle clamped, seized and destroyed; or even force a court prosecution that can lead to fines of up to £1,000.

It will mean car owners can no longer allow the insurance on their vehicle to expire without taking action, even if the vehicle has had its tyres removed and is

in a garage. They must now insure their vehicle or make a SORN declaration – for which there is no charge.

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

News from across your region

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

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

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

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

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

Before you set off, check that the:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Dispatch May 2011 35