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MOTORING REVIEW
HOMES & GARDENS
HEALTH & WELLBEING
THE GREEN DRAGON
FOR WYMONDHAM, DEREHAM & WATTON
www.DispatchMagazine.co.uk
August 2012
WELCOME
Tel: 01953 456789 www.DispatchMagazine.co.uk @Dispatch_Mag
Editor: Jonathan Horswell
Advertising: sales@DispatchMagazine.co.uk Jayne Ashby ( Sales Manager ) Gemma Fairweather, Kim Wild
Design: design@DispatchMagazine.co.uk Colin Jeffery ( Senior Designer ) Joe Mellor ( Trainee Designer )
Editorial: editorial@DispatchMagazine.co.uk Dispatch Magazine Queens House, Queens Square , Attleborough, Norfolk , NR17 2AE
DispatchMag
Issue 059 August 2012 Deadline for all submissions for the next issue is:
August 10th 2012
Š Dispatch Magazine Disclaimer: No part of this magazine may be reproduced or used in any form or by any means, either wholly or in part, without the prior written permission of the Publisher. The views expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of the Publisher. Every effort is taken to ensure that the contents of this magazine are accurate, but the Publisher can not assume any responsibility for errors or omissions. Whilst reasonable care is taken when accepting advertisements the Publisher will not accept any resulting unsatisfactory transactions. They will, however, immediately investigate any written complaints. The Publishers reserve the right to amend such submissions and cannot accept responsibility for any loss.
August 2012
WYMONDHAM
www.wymondhamonline.co.uk
Wymondham Heritage Museum The Great Flood of 1912 and Other Things. Based in the Old Bridewell Prison the Wymondham Heritage Museum tells a number of stories from the towns’ history. Visit the dungeon and hear from Emma Pooley how she was transported to Australia for stealing cheese in 1787. Try the punishment crank; see an unusual use for a bible. Hear, see and feel the history of brush making in the town, operate the Gane machine. Why was Robert Kett executed, was he a hero or traitor? Where are the Wymondham men who died in the First World War remembered?
From 1942 to 1945 units of the US Army Air Force were based around the town at a number of airbases. Where were they based, what did they do, where were the injured from D Day treated? Objects, documents and photos tell their story. In August we mark the centenary of The Great Flood of Wymondham in 1912. If you think it is wet this year find out what happened then, houses and bridges destroyed, compensation claimed and paid out.
when you visit the museum. After visiting the museum, relax in our Tearoom and think that compared with the past maybe life isn’t so bad these days. Visitors often say when they leave the museum “I never knew that” If you don’t visit you will never know what you never knew, so come and find out!
Phone 01953 600205 during open hours or access our website, www.wymondhamheritagemuseum.co.uk for more information.
Tumble Tots All young children need to grow, learn and move at a rate they find comfortable.
Do you or your parents remember buying these items when young, checkout the Damgate Stores.
Documents and photos tell the story. Children; are these remains bones or pottery undertake an archaeological dig to find out, hunt for the clues to answer the quiz.
Each Tumble Tots session combines fun, excitement and challenge in a safe, caring environment. All sessions use unique equipment and are run by leaders specially trained to get the best out of your child.
This year some special events have stories to tell.
All these questions and more can be answered and experienced
Help your child develop the vital physical skills and confidence needed for life
August 2012
Open Monday to Saturday 10am to 4pm Adults £4, Concessions £3, Children (5 to16) £1, under 5’s free.
with Tumble Tots, Britain’s leading active physical play programme. Classes held at Wymondham and Yaxham. To book FREE TRIAL CLASS please ring Jan Smith on 01603 716745 or visit www.tumbletots.com/broadland.
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WYMONDHAM
Community Centre Come EAAA-T With Me Needs More Volunteers
Have you ever seen Channel 4’s Come Dine With Me and thought “I can do better that that”?
A community centre in Wymondham, which was previously threatened with closure, is looking for more volunteers to support the hardworking committee. The South Wymondham community centre in Green Lane, Silfield is a focal point for a range of community activities but increasing family commitments of the small number of volunteers who run it make it difficult for them to carry out their development plans. Committee member, Melissa Jolley said “In order
for the centre to thrive, we need a few more people to come forward and offer an hour or two of their time, once a month.” Anyone interesting in helping can find out more by contacting Melissa on 01953 600717.
Wymondham Helicopter Group Presents David Last at the keyboard. Sunday 9th September 2.30pm - 5pm.
Street, Wymondham or 01953 600563.
Central Hall, Wymondham.
In aid of the East Anglian Air Ambulance Charity 1083876.
Tickets £6 from GEO Reeve, Market Tel: 01953 456789 www.DispatchMagazine.co.uk
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Well here’s your chance to prove it and to raise money for a good cause at the same time. This National Air Ambulance Week, the East Anglian Air Ambulance (EAAA) is calling on supporters to join in with Come EAAA-T With Me, the charity’s latest initiative to put the fun back in to fundraising. National Air Ambulance Week runs from Monday 24th September to Sunday 30th September and supporters are being asked to don their aprons, light their ovens and invite their friends round for dinner in order to raise much needed funds for the charity. EAAA is inviting you to support your local life saving air ambulance by hosting a dinner party. All you need to do is invite your friends round for dinner and ask your guests to donate what they think your meal is worth to the charity. Helen Dodman, leading this project for the East Anglian Air Ambulance, said: “While this is a fun way of raising money for charity, your participation means that many more lives will be saved across the region. Our life-saving doctor
and critical care paramedic crews help to ease pain and suffering every day. It’s only through the dedication and hard work of our supporters that we’re able to fund the helicopters that help our crews to reach people in need. Without you, we simply wouldn’t exist and I’d like to take this opportunity to thank you for your support in advance of your dinner parties.” For those who can’t commit to hosting an evening and cooking three courses then there are several other options. You could still have people round for dinner but split the courses between you and add a donation in for the other courses. If hosting an evening is not really what you want to do, then why not bake some cakes and biscuits and take them in to work and ask for a donation in return. For further details on Come EAAA-T With Me or to have a fundraising pack sent out to you, contact Helen Dodman on 01473 745007 or email helen.dodman@eaaa.org.uk.
DispatchMag
No 4 LAUNCHING SOON WHERE NEXT???????
DISS & ATTLEBOROUGH
WYMONDHAM DEREHAM & WATTON
BURY ST EDMUNDS
August 2012
WYMONDHAM
www.wymondhamonline.co.uk
A Donation That Packs A Punch The Wymondham branch of Norwich & Peterborough are fighting to help get young people exercising by making a £250 donation to Attleborough Amateur Boxing Club for new equipment. The branch have made a donation to the local sports club that welcomes children from the age of eight upwards who are looking to train in safe surroundings under the tutelage of trained boxing teachers. The new equipment bought with the donation will be available to be used by both boys and girls of all ages who use the club to get fit, train for competitions and have fun at the same time. “We are proud to be able to make this donation to one of our local sporting clubs,” said Jenny Didcott the manager of the N&P’s Wymondham branch. “Attleborough Boxing Club is a fantastic facility that provides a great place for young people to come together and work on their fitness and indulge in a sport they enjoy under brilliant guidance from
August 2012
qualified teachers and instructors and we are pleased we could show our support.” Peter Neal of Attleborough Amateur Boxing Club said: “We’re really grateful to N&P for this donation. We want to make sure we can offer local children a great place to train with some of the best equipment so they can get the most out of the time they spend here and thanks to this donation we can continue to do just that.” The £250 donation to Attleborough Boxing Club came from the Yorkshire Building Society Community Investment Fund, a smaller fund set up by the Society to help local charities and good causes that can often be overlooked for donations. N&P merged with Yorkshire Building Society in 2011 giving N&P the opportunity to support more good causes.
Auto - Enrolment It could affect you! Yes there is some new legalisation that is being introduced that could affect most employers. If you employ part or full time staff the new pension regulations, the Government’s auto enrolment scheme, may mean that you may have to pay into a pension for them. The regulations are being introduced from 2012 to 2017 and it will be compulsory for certain employees to be offered this scheme. Whether an employee qualifies will depend upon their age and their income. The legalisation is extremely complicated and will have an impact on millions of employees and indirectly employers, as employers will have to pay into their employee’s pensions. There are significant fines if the legalisation is ignored and the fines can be levied on an ongoing basis, so please be aware. The new scheme is not like the old Stakeholder Scheme, where once you registered you could
choose to ignore it! Auto Enrolment will have far reaching ramifications! This article is not written on the basis of providing advice but to make you aware, whether you are an employee or employer, that it is coming and could affect you. For employers with a large number of employees it has already started. Please speak to us and we can personally advise you of the implications. Any initial discussion would be at our expense. ML Financial Associates Ltd Suite 4, The Old Dairy, Elm Farm Business Park, Norwich Common, Wymondham, Norfolk, NR18 0SW. Tel: 01953 711123 Fax: 01953 600479 www.mlfinancialassociates.co.uk.
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WYMONDHAM
Bike Ride Raises £12,000 For Life Saving Charity A group of local businessmen have just returned from an epic bike ride to raise funds for a local life saving charity. The East Anglian Air Ambulance (EAAA) is set to benefit by more than £12,000 following the ride which began on Wednesday 13th June. The mammoth sponsored cycle challenge left Crystal Palace at 8am and arrived at the Eifel Tower in Paris at 2pm on Saturday 16th June. The group of five from the Forum for the Built Environment, a networking organisation for the property, development and construction industries, travelled a total of 300 miles on the trip but covered many more miles in preparation as Julian Harvey, Chairman of the East Anglian Branch, explains: “We all trained for about five months leading up to the challenge and think between us we’ve covered over 10,000 miles. All of us would like to say a big thank you to all those who have supported us and donated so generously to the air ambulance. It’s a fantastic charity which do such great work in our
local area. Given the industry we work in and distances we travel on a daily basis we felt this was an important charity for the branch to support and we’re so pleased we’ve been able to raise such a fantastic sum of money for them.”
James, Colin, Peter and Darren then please visit their fundraising page at www.virginmoneygiving.com and search for ‘Julian Harvey’. The logo for the Forum for the Built Environment will appear as the profile picture.
Pip Duffy, Area Fundraising Manager for EAAA, said: “This is an incredible amount of money to raise and will be gratefully received by the charity. We operate two dedicated air ambulance helicopters covering East Anglia and it’s only through the fundraising efforts of local people like Julian, James, Colin, Peter and Darren, that we can continue to get our highly skilled doctor and critical care paramedic teams to the scene of accidents and medical emergencies. What they have achieved is wonderful and we can’t thank them enough for their support.”
For more information on the work of the East Anglian Air Ambulance visit www.eaaa.org.uk or to inform the charity of any fundraising activities you have planned contact the Suffolk fundraising team on 01473 745007.
If you’d like to donate to the East Anglian Air Ambulance in support of Julian,
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August 2012
WYMONDHAM
www.wymondhamonline.co.uk
Meet Norfolk Computer Services An IT business that doesn’t speak geek! How are you different from other IT companies?
How much experience do you have?
We don’t speak geek here. We keep it simple and reliable.
Loads. We have more than 14 years of experience within professional sectors, seven in one of the region’s leading (and largest) law firms, two at a national recruitment agency, with more than 28 offices throughout the UK, and five small to medium business customers under our belt too!
There are no contracts and we even operate pay-per-use in 15 minute slots. So what can you do? You name it. We can do it. New PCs/ servers. Installation and support of internal email systems and external cloud systems like Google.
We are also members of the British Computer Society and uphold a strict ethical code of conduct.
PC and server checks. Updates. Office relocations. Enabling access to everything from your mobile/tablet. Connection of multiple offices to share information. Internet phones. And of course, the one people forget until it’s too late: Backup planning and testing.
August 2012
So if I’m a large business with lots of offices, or just someone who needs laptop advice can you help me? Yes. And everything in-between! We can look after businesses that have offices in and outside of Norfolk, start up small businesses, and of course help people with their own home IT issues and queries.
How can I contact you? Give us a ring on 01953 878524 and if we’re out-and-about helping other customers you can always reach us on 07979 523068.
Or if you not the talkative type, drop an email to hello@norfolkcomputerservices.com instead.
Diamond SOS Secretarial office support. With over 30 years of experience we offer an outsource secretarial/office support that is professional, flexible and cost effective, a first class service enabling you to focus on the core of your business and the help you need with the day to day tasks without the cost, risk and complications of employing someone permanently. We operate just like your own team, getting to know your business and
going that extra mile to take care of the things you do not have time for or do not want to do. Virtual or office based, please give me a call and we will discuss and support your everyday office needs. Office: 01953 604752 Mobile: 07850 064526 E-mail: carlene@diamondsos.com
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WYMONDHAM
Anglia Computer Solutions Ltd
Priory Insurance Brokers LTD
PC / Laptop Repairs, Upgrades & Virus Removal.
Can we really afford not to take out travel insurance?
Whether its PC, Laptop or MAC we can help. Repairs are available in all branches. Anglia Computer Solutions deal with anything computer related from upgrading the memory, to replacing core components when computers stop responding. All of our staff our also experienced in dealing with all kinds of Virus, Spy ware and Ad Aware.
Despite the downturn in the economy, with the recent poor weather and constant rain in April and May, we have seen more and more people looking for breaks in sunnier climates, but can we really cut corners and not take out Travel Insurance?
requirements. Whether you are travelling in Europe or Worldwide, summer or winter, old or young, single, couple or family, let us find the cover for you and ensure you can relax and enjoy your holiday with the insurance protection and peace of mind needed.
Cancellation and Medical cover are no doubt the main areas of concern when looking for a suitable insurance policy.
Premiums start from as little as £57.35 per couple for Annual European cover.
Current Stocks All our branches have a large range of both New & Reconditioned PC’s and laptops - we have something to fit everybody’s price bracket. Asides from the hardware we stock a wide range of original and compatible ink cartridges, cables, components, peripherals, memory and much more. Call Outs Anglia Computer Solutions offer visits to the home and workplace. There are
times work needs to be done onsite or whether its just the fact you can’t get your equipment to us. Our engineers are trained to deal with a multitude of issues. Websites At Anglia Computer Solutions we have a website designer who can create a product to everybody’s needs. Whether it’s just a few information pages, a photo gallery or a full online shop - give us a call for a free quote! Getting high Google search engine results is our speciality.
With access to a panel of Insurers, we can find and arrange the policy specific to your
Please feel free to call in to our Wymondham Office for quotations or advice.
Wireless and Wired Networking Our staff are Cisco certified network experts in both cables and wireless solutions. To date we have worked many large projects including hotels, pubs & caravan parks. If you are interested in adding wireless internet access to your business to attract customers - give us a call for a free quote!
August 2012
10 DEREHAM
www.derehamonline.co.uk
Fly A Flag For Our Armed Forces On 25th June Breckland joined councils, businesses, schools and citizens throughout the land when Rowland Hall, from the British Legion, raised the Armed Forces Flag outside the council offices in Dereham. The specially designed Armed Forces Day flag is one of many thousands that were raised around the country in the lead up to the fourth Armed Forces Day on Saturday 30th June. Breckland Council has strong links with locally based forces, and the ceremony was attended by Wing Commander Jon Osborne from RAF Marham and Major William Leek of the Light Dragoons. Breckland Council Executive Members and other elected members and staff, including Council Leader William Nunn, Deputy Leader Michael Wassell, Breckland Chairmen Robin Goreham and Deputy Chief Executive Mark Stokes were also present. Robin Goreham, Chairman of Breckland Council said: “Although I am looking forward to all the many events at which I will represent the Council in the coming months, it is
August 2012
a very special honour for me and I know that this occasion is one that will stay with me for very many years to come”. “The defence of our country is vital to every one of us and we are raising this flag today as a tangible sign of our appreciation for the sacrifices made by members of our armed forces - both past and serving. For their bravery, for the huge responsibility they bear and for their professionalism and steadfast sense of duty”. A minute silence was observed prior to the flag being raised. The first Armed Forces Day was marked on 22nd June 2009, and the ‘Fly a Flag’ initiative began the same year as a way for local communities to demonstrate their support in the lead up to the day.
On 20th June 2011, over four thousand flags were flown around the country, many from historic and iconic buildings and some by
individual members of the general public who wanted to show their support personally.
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DEREHAM 11
Hood Vores & Allwood Solicitors Offer fixed fees for family law services. We at Hood Vores & Allwood recognise that Separation and Divorce can be a painful and unsettling time for you and your children, both emotionally and financially. Many individuals are familiar with the Legal Aid, but are unaware that the legal costs incurred under this scheme are often repayable by you upon conclusion of your case, plus interest currently at 8%. There is no way of knowing accurately how much these charges might be. We recognise that this gives cause for uncertainty. Hood Vores & Allwood understands that having to repay your legal costs from your divorce settlement can restrict your planning for the future and impact on your financial position after divorce. Family law work can be unpredictable in terms of legal costs, which is why, where possible, we have devised a range of Fixed Fee Services for certain areas of our
work. Our Specialist Family Law Team is committed to helping you through this difficult time by offering an affordable service without comprising your best interests. We offer fixed fees for the following service areas: • Divorce proceedings • Cohabitation agreements • Separation agreements • Pre-marital /nuptial agreements • Parental Responsibility agreements. For an appointment or more information please contact us by: Telephone on: 08453 724240 Or email: enquiries@hoodvoreslaw.co.uk Or visit our website: www.hoodvoreslaw.co.uk.
August 2012
12 WATTON
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Gina’s Pet Shop
Watton Craft Market
If you are looking for a local, well stocked pet shop in Watton then look no further than Gina’s Pet Shop.
Queens Hall, Norwich Road, IP25 6DA.
When you are looking for a pet shop that offers expertise and care, as well as the knowledge that comes from owning and breeding animals then you have come to the right place. I run an established pet shop which aims to cater for all of your pet requirements. I have a wide range of stock available and am always on hand with advice and expertise regarding keeping your animals happy, healthy and amused. I am also a breeder of quality rabbits and guinea pigs (whose parents can be seen) and invite you to take one of these adorable animals home with you to become a well loved member of your family. As a member of the Pet Care Trust I can offer confident care and as such I also offer a small animal boarding service allowing you to feel secure
August 2012
while you are away that your animals are safe and happy. If you would like to take advantage of the claw and teeth clipping service I offer as well as of the stock of wild bird feed and products I have please get in touch. I offer FREE advice to all owners and prospective owners of small pets in Watton, Norfolk. My personal service and quality advice have earned me an excellent reputation in the local area as the latest owner of this long established pet shop. I have been the owner for nearly ten years and the shop is open 6 days per week (closed Sundays) for your continued convenience. So if you are looking for quality breed rabbits and guinea pigs or for pet supplies please get in touch on 01953 711 188.
Saturday 4th August - 9.30am to 2pm - Free Admission. Come and visit our monthly Craft Market which is held on the first Saturday of the month. There will be a wonderful selection of locally hand made items on sale including cards, knitwear, wooden items, jewellery, toys, textiles and some unusual items as well. An opportunity to buy that special gift or to treat yourself. In aid of Macmillan Cancer Care and Support.
Refreshments with cakes, savouries and hot food will be served by the Thetford based charity ASD - Helping Hands who are there for adults and children in the Norfolk area living with Autism. Please come and have a coffee and support this good cause. If you require any further information please call Brenda on 07776 364456 or e-mail wheelerevents@aol.com.
Macmillan Coffee Morning This year’s World’s Biggest Coffee Morning is on Friday 28th September! You can organise one anywhere - at home, work, your village hall... Have cake, have coffee, have fun! Money raised will go towards helping people living with cancer both locally and nationally.
To find out more and order a host pack, go to: www.macmillan.org.uk/coffee Or call us on 0845 602 1246.
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HOMES & GARDENS 13
With All The Recent Rain Look Up And Check Whether Your Gutters Are Overflowing The most common problem is a build up of moss and leaves and general sludge in the gutter. A simple remedy to this is to have us clear, clean and inspect then for you as leaky gutters may seem a minor problem but if left unattended they can have a major impact on your home. Which in turn could lead to costly repairs and time consuming maintenance. It doesn’t really matter what type of roof you have, whether it is flat or sloped, it is crucial that the guttering system allows water to drain down and away from the structure. Pooling water on the roof can cause tiles to be lifted and warped which results in leaks creeping down into the structure itself. From there, not only will the soffit become damaged, but so too will the framework within the building. In effect, guttering is an integral part of any roofing system because it directs water
away from the building to a collection point where it can cause no harm. One of the most obvious problems you will notice with leaky guttering is that the soil around your home will become eroded. As water spills out through leaks in the gutter, it splashes against the ground causing that erosion. This is a danger on a number of levels, but most importantly it can cause damage to the very foundation of the building. You would also want to keep in mind that the pools of water and mud around your home do nothing for the aesthetics of your property If the gutters are clean and clear but still overflowing, it is possible to fix them.
One possible cause is that the downpipes might be clogged with wads of leaves and general debris flushed down from the gutters. If clogged downpipes are found we can clean and unblock them - replacement is only necessary if the blockage and water pressure has damaged the downpipes. A second possible cause is that the gutters are not sloped properly so that water flows readily through the gutters to the downpipes. We check and correct improper slope for you to achieve a good flow of water. It could also be that there are not enough downpipes or they are not well located.
Another possible cause is that the gutters and/or downpipes are undersized. Deep flow gutters are available the high flow rate and deep capacity enable the amount of downpipes to be kept to a minimum. For more information or a free no obligation quote please contact Jason of J C Homeworks to transform your home. On 01953 451169 or 07747 847606. Visit our website: www.jchomeworks.co.uk.
It is sometimes necessary to have downpipes at intervals along a long run of gutter, as well as at the end.
August 2012
14 Homes & gardens
www.DispatchMagazine.co.uk
At Richard Allington Kitchens ...We will provide you with a kitchen that functions as good as it looks. This can only be achieved by using the finest components. We work closely with world leading component and appliance manufacturers to ensure that your kitchen is as pleasing to use as it is on the eyes! Our kitchen ranges include contemporary, traditional, classic and shaker styles. In fact there’s a style for any home - from post-modernist, minimalism to rustic country living and everything in between. All kitchen cabinets are made to order and supplied rigid and not flat-pack. They are factory assembled and supplied with doors, drawers and accessories fitted. Richard Allington Kitchens are manufactured in the traditional manner,
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glued and dowelled for strength to ensure there are no visible fixings or redundant holes. Each cabinet is fitted with soft close door and drawer dampers as standard. So come and see us in our showroom in Attleborough, or call us to arrange a free design and plan service. With no high pressure sales, as we believe your time is precious. We can do as little or as much as you require from supply only, to a full fitting service, including any building, plumbing or electrical works. It’s our commitment to you to create the kitchen you desire, of superior quality at Superstore prices. It’s the Richard Allington way.
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HOMES & GARDENS 15
Diss Bed Centre And Furniture Warehouse
Horse Chestnut Leaf Miner
...Is a family owned business which has been established for over 36 years, based in Diss, Norfolk.
Owners of Horse Chestnut trees will almost certainly be familiar with the visual effects resulting from the larvae of this moth.
Our new Furniture Warehouse on Sawmills Road, Diss offers a huge selection of leading styles of bedroom, occasional, dining and office furniture including Bedsteads, Sideboards, Wardrobes, Dining Tables, Chairs, Units, TV Stands, Nests of Tables, Desks and much more. All ranges are available in solid woods including oak, ash, beech, birch and pine.
Disfiguration is apparent from around mid July and can be severe.
We also have a new exciting range of TV beds, electric beds and rise and recline chairs and with new lines being released regularly we are the place to visit for the latest styles and ranges. Big brands include Sealy, Silentnight, Hypnos, Myers, Staples and Healthbeds to name but a few. With over 10 ranges of furniture displayed in store you shouldn’t struggle to find what you are looking for, however if you can’t see it on the shop floor do ask as there is every chance we can order it in for you - orders placed before Wednesday will be in and ready for delivery by the Friday. We have a large range of stock
in at all times available for same or next day delivery meaning you haven’t got to wait weeks for your new furniture. You can also visit our website for our full ranges and our latest offers www.dissbedcentre.co.uk. The store has easy access and parking and we offer free local delivery using our own specialised team, all of our furniture is ready assembled on delivery which saves you the time and stress of trying to assemble it yourself. With years of experience in the industry and fantastic customer service, we are best placed to give you any advice you need on the furniture you are looking for. We offer something to suit every taste and budget. Store opening times are as follows: Sawmills Road: Monday: Friday 9am - 5pm Saturday: 9am - 4pm, Sunday: 10am - 1pm.
Believed to have originated in the Balkans in the late 70’s it was first discovered in London around 2002. The pest is thought to have entered the UK in leaves trapped within vehicles and has since spread. In the past it was hoped that a very cold winter might help control horse chestnut leaf miner but perhaps this was wishful thinking considering its origins. Predation by tit species has little impact and it is not expected that any quick fix will present itself soon. Standard advice is to burn fallen leaves as the moth over winters as pupae in these. Practicality aside, it would probably have little effect as such measures rely on the owners of neighbouring trees doing likewise.
Chemical controls are not considered viable and appropriate for most landowners. Aesculus x carnea, a hybrid that bears red flowers is largely resistant to leaf miner but unfortunately is even more susceptible to horse chestnut bleeding canker, a disease threatening the very future of horse chestnuts. Current thinking is that leaf miner does not affect the health of the tree. Whether this proves to be correct or not remains to be seen. Many trees are so badly afflicted each year that the accumulative effects from reduced photosynthesis must surely take its toll over the long term. Wymondham Tree Services will be pleased to assist you in the management of your trees and hedges.
August 2012
16 Homes & gardens
www.DispatchMagazine.co.uk
Keeping It Simple‌
Supreme Bathrooms
‌how to enjoy your garden without the upkeep.
Has now been trading for almost 15 years supplying and installing bathrooms all over East Anglia and now even much broader horizons with the modern internet shopping trends.
Our gardens are an extension of our home and a great place to spend our leisure time or as a haven for relaxation. That is unless the work involved in maintaining the garden makes it more of a chore than an area of enjoyment. At Georgina Read Design & Landscaping, we always include features to ensure your garden maintenance is reduced to a minimum, such as edging the borders with mowing strips, using weed matting and mulch and identifying practical measures such as artificial lawns or paving and pathways that work with your use of the garden. At Georgina Read Design & Landscaping we specialise in transforming gardens and our flexible approach means we can always meet your requirements for all aspects of hard-landscaping. As we are also the driving force behind Paving Superstore (www.pavingsuperstore.co.uk) and Anglian Garden & Building Supplies (www.gardenandbuilding.co.uk),
August 2012
both selling huge volumes of hard landscaping materials across the UK, including paving from Marshalls, Bradstone, Brett, Stonemarket, Pavestone, Global Stone, Strata and Natural Paving, decorative stone, sheds, summerhouses, log cabins, garden features, hot tubs, pergolas, fencing, water features and lots more, you can be sure all our materials are at online prices, offering great savings! So why not let our RHS award-winning, fully qualified landscaping professionals encompass your needs by creating a garden to match your lifestyle - whether you prefer modern and contemporary or timeless and traditional, we can fulfil your requirements. Free Quotes Fully Insured References Available Contact us today on 01953 850802 to discuss your Landscaping Requirements See examples of our work at: www.georginaread.co.uk.
With arguably the largest bathroom showroom in Norfolk with over 80 displays, showing a good mixture of all the latest modern trends along with the good old traditional ranges, Supreme can cater for all tastes and budgets. They even have a spacious car park right outside while you shop. With over 30 years of experience their staff can advise you on all aspects of installing and choosing your new bathroom with the independent, professional and attention to detail service you deserve. Supreme Bathrooms can just supply and deliver your bathroom wares from just a pair of taps to a complete suite with all wall and floor tiles, or they can offer you a full free of charge design service. This service includes a home visit where they can measure your bathroom before discussing your requirements, which is
then followed up by designing your new bathroom on their CAD system before offering you a complete package price to carry out all work. This includes all plumbing, tiling, plastering and electrics, even the fitting of your accessories to finish off your dream bathroom. They even dispose of the old suite and all rubbish before letting you sit back and enjoy your wonderful new Supreme Bathroom.
18 THE GREEN DRAGON
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Another Summer At The Green Dragon Firstly we would like to thank everybody who attended and gave support to our Macmillan Fundraising day in June, including singer’s performers and face painters- an enjoyable day was had by all. then turned into 3 en suite Bed & Breakfast rooms.
We had another successful beer festival in June (despite the weather), hopefully the next planned beer festival Friday 24th August - Monday 27th August, will bring the sun for more beer cider and whisky lovers to enjoy shenanigans in the gardens - we have booked Bill Downs again for Sunday 26th August. The next chapter for the green dragon emphasises on its recently opened upstairs room, re-named THE DEN, which was originally a banqueting hall in the 1980’s, We have been looking for a new venue within Wymondham with more space than we have previously had to hold our weekly rotary meeting. Our first meeting in the Green Dragon function room was very well
August 2012
Justin and David have transformed this Georgian room to its former glory and the 50 seater space including bar, toilets, cosy sofas, 2 original fireplaces and original features is decorated to a high standard to compliment the building and its multipurpose uses. Already functions have included the recent end of festival party for the Wymondham music festival, Song Fest song writing workshop, live music with Johnny Steinberg and two other private parties. The Den is now the regular accepted by all who attended and we look forward to many more. Mr Hugh Tusting Wymondham Rotary Club
I recently attended Jonny Steinberg’s event with Wymondham Music festival at The Green Dragon. The room and music is fantastic with great acoustics, it’s perfect
for small music events. Well done Justin and David and his team. Curtis from Norwich
meeting place for the Wymondham Rotary club for their weekly lunch meetings.
Roger Bear to help and guide people of a certain age with the use of internet, computers and digital photography.
Coming soon will be The Silver Surfers, a club organised by David’s Dad,
Only £2 a session including tea or coffee and a biscuit.
@Dispatch_Mag I attended a leaving party at The Green Dragon in their newly opened function room and thought it was wonderful. They have worked so hard and created a really stylish and elegant room and the canapĂŠs were
Another recent interior addition are the choral pews situated in the front room, originally from a Medieval church in Norwich and also reclaimed tables - some of which originates from Ford Sacks factory in Wymondham, also in keeping with this historic building.
This club will meet on the second Thursday of every month in the upstairs function room between 2pm - 4pm if interested please email greendragonsilversurfers@gmail.com. Bookings have been and are being taken for weddings, parties, private functions, training, conferencing or any other occasion - which can include buffets and food to suit individual’s tastes and pockets. We also hope to use this space for acoustic music in the future after the addition of a piano.
THE GREEN DRAGON 19
delicious and the evening was a real hit - I have booked it for my birthday in September. Tracy from near Wymondham
welcoming all our 2 and 4 legged friends - come wet or dry. Bring on the sun!!!!!
We are proud to announce we have been voted Norwich and Norfolk CAMRAS Rural pub of the year 2012 and we will keep you informed on the South Norfolk community pub award. As always the Green Dragon is a popular watering and belly filling hole situated near Wymondham Abbey,
I recently spent the evening at The Green Dragon attending my friends engagement party. We had a smashing buffet, the new function room is amazing and we are
thinking of booking our works Christmas do there. Rachel from Norwich
Good Luck To Dave And Justin With Their New Function Room IN PRINT
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FACE TO FACE
August 2012
20 out & about
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Barford Lakes Based on the outskirts of Norwich in Norfolk, we provide an impressive range of fishing across the four venues we manage. We have a total of 8 well stocked lakes holding a good variety of fish, including Carp, Tench, Bream, Chub, Crucian Carp, Golden Tench and Orfe, Roach, Rudd and Perch.
One of the most popular privately owned still water coarse fisheries in East Anglia, and the fishery offers a range of sport to suit pleasure, match and intermediate carp anglers.
On the main site at Barford there are full facilities with ladies, gents and disabled toilets and a fully stocked tackle shop offering great deals on a range of fishing equipment, accessories and baits, including hook bait and ground bait.
Pleasure catches of more than 100lbs are common and some have been known to break the 200lb mark.
For anglers of all abilities we offer some of the best fishing lakes in Norfolk and with additional lakes opened in 2007/2008 we have something to suit everyone from the casual angler through to the specimen specialist. There is also a level 2 angling coach on site.
We still have some spaces available for our four day festival held on Friday 17th - Monday 20th August 2012. Accommodation can be arranged and we now have a cafe on-site. Please email sarah@barfordlakes.com or call 01603 759624 to book in.
At Battle-Station Laser Combat.... ....we have the most varied and spectacular Laser Combat Battles imaginable. The action is great fun and completely exhilarating! We have top-notch facilities at a brilliant venue. Our friendly and helpful staff will ensure you have a sensational day.Perfect for Birthday, Stag & Hen Party’s and great for Team Building and Corporate events. We have combat packages to suite everyone so have a look at our Battle Packs Page on our website to find your ideal battle and don’t forget to check out our latest deals. WHY US for your action packed day?Fantastic Maps / Battlefields that have been specially designed for Laser Combat Games • Biggest Maps / Battlefields in East Anglia • ���������������������������������������� Biggest selection of Guns available for you to choose from. • ������������������������������������� Missions and programme’s designed by Ex Military Instructors with real Combat experience. A great mix of realism, computer gaming and fun.
August 2012
• ���������������������������������������� The best Customer service and value for money guaranteed • ������������������������������������ Awesome location in Thetford Forest Park Viking Laser Sports main Battlefield is located on the same site as Combat Paintball. The site is situated on the A11 just to the north of Thetford. We have approx 15 acres of prime woodland as our main battlefield and we also use some of Combat paintball’’s combat zones. On booking you will be sent a detailed map and instructions to help you find the site with ease. For more information e-mail darren@vikinglasersports.com. Or call the office on 01842 761705 (9am-9pm).
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Twelve Lbs Down In Just 3 Weeks I’m over the moon. Name: Gemma Height: 5ft 2” Starting Weight: 15st 2lb
questions I may have, she is there to offer support and is a fantastic motivator, so far she has been a key part to my success and with each weeks weight loss i have looked forward to a quick chat and a look at the week ahead’s target.
HEALTH & WELLBEING 21
Spoil Yourself.... ....this summer with the latest looks at Aroma. Frame your face with HD Brows… have you ever wondered how celebrities get perfectly formed brows? The secret is HD Brows…this treatment defines your beauty with a unique 7 step procedure. Lets Go lashes the ultimate in lash extensions …Everyone wants glamorous, beautiful eyes. We can provide thickness and length to natural eyelashes thus enhancing the charm and appeal of your eyes.
Measurements: Chest/Bust 43”
You also relieve a folder with countless information and a plan for the month of what to eat and when.
Waist 42” Hips 49” After putting on 5st during my pregnancy and going from a dress size 10/12 to a dress size of 16 and 10 months on still having to fit into my maternity clothes was beginning to get me very down. After a few different diets and the usual trying to eat healthily, I found I just didn’t have the time to prepare my meals. What with having to feed the baby, dogs and boyfriend this meant I usually grabbed something quick, easy and very, very unhealthy for me. Being a busy mum and working full time left no real room for going up the gym or going for a swim and to be honest I felt a little silly running with a pushchair. So I thought enough was enough, I’d seen the adverts for Jenny Craig on the TV but didn’t really know much about it. After some research I contacted the team, read some success stories and was put in touch with my consultant Rebecca. My food was delivered to the door in two boxes, as I opened them and looked at the variety of products I actually thought they all sound pretty good. Rebecca calls me each week to offer tips and advice, talk you through any problems or answer any
Above: Gemma, pre baby
This is fantastic for someone like me, being able to not even think about food for the day, just pick it up and take it, set myself meal times and stick to it, actually having structure to my food and actually start to look forward to eating again. After spending 3 weeks on the diet so far, I have found the variety of food to be very tasty and very filling. Weight loss so far: Week 1: 6lb Week 2: 2lb Week 3: 4lb
and soak completely off in only 15 minutes. Calgel is applied to the natural nail or enhancements and can last up to 6 weeks is a flexible, smudge proof non chip lasting gel polish while protecting your natural nails. AND Finally Waxing ladies. Do you have the urge to de fuzz?? Some of it? All of it! Public bits private bits…. You name it we’ll remove it!
Get glowing Instantly beautiful rejuvenated skin with CRYSTAL CLEAR - Micro Dermabrasion. TREATS FINE LINES WRINKLES, DULL, DEHYDRATED SKIN, SUN DAMAGED AND ACNE SCARRING AND ACNE PRONED SKIN. Using a controlled method of skin resurfacing, by gently exfoliating the outer layers while increasing new collagen and elastin to visibly restore and firm the skin on your face neck and body. Results can be seen instantly however a course is recommended for maximum effect. Your hands say a lot about you! New Gelish Color Gels. The gels come in an array of colors, are cured in a LED lamp in just 20 or 30 seconds. Gelish stays on nails for three weeks with no chipping or peeling,
12 lb in 3 weeks, just another 4 stone to go! Follow Gemma’s road to success in next months issue of Dispatch Magazine. JENNY CRAIG’s unique Mind-Food-Body approach - which combines delicious home delivered food with weekly one-to-one consultations – is the answer to successful weight management. If you want to lose weight like Gemma, contact 0800 088 2034 or visit www.jennycraig.co.uk to buy online.
Above: Gemma, now
August 2012
22 SOCIAL MEDIA
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10 Tips For Good Use Of Social Media The social media community is constantly growing and if you’re looking to tap into it and gain more interest into your business then it’s important to maintain good social media etiquette. Here are ten tips for good social media management: 1. Respond to clients You’ve got to be doing more than simply posting your own updates, it’s of the utmost importance that any questions or queries that are posted are replied to. You don’t want your clients to feel ignored, nor do you want your Facebook page, website etc to seem dormant and unmaintained. 2. Shout-outs and gratitude If somebody gives you some form of promotional attention or positive feedback, such as a ‘retweet’ on Twitter, be sure to thank them for it. 3. Qualified and experienced opinions The people within your business who are most qualified and experienced should be involved with management of your social media, they are after all, going to be the most knowledgeable on the subject.
4. Maintain your content To a potential client who hasn’t visited your shop, office, etc, the only impression they’ll have of your business will come from your online material. Poorly maintained, out of date content is only going to give you a negative image.
7. Tread carefully around humour Humour is arguably a powerful marketing technique, but it’s also subjective and varies person to person. Before you start making jokes be aware of your market and how they may approach it.
10. Networking with other businesses Converging with other businesses online is easy and beneficial to both parties, it also gives the impression you’re not occupied with only yourself and gives a friendly business image to any potential clients.
5. Network your social media If you use more than one social media platform, it’s important to keep them synchronised.
8. Use your ingenuity See how other businesses go about maintaining their online presence and try and implement the methods that work. Be sure to use whatever new features your chosen platform/ platforms may have, for example mobile web, photo and video.
Come along then, join the World of Social Media follow us at: @Dispatch_Mag we will re-Tweet your tweets to our massive following, and it’s a great way of attracting new business.
For example, if you’re uploading content to Website then make sure your Facebook profile is aware of it - you don’t want to have contradictory material and you don’t want one platform to seem ahead of the others. 6. Start with good content If you’re launching on a new platform you want to have a strong start, you don’t want the first people to stumble across your business to have a poor first impression. Bio: Kitchen Fairy Godmother provides cooking lessons tailored to your needs in Norwich and surrounding areas. www.kitchenfairygodmother.co.uk
Call us, we’re happy to help!! Tel: 01953 456789.
Bio: I have a wicked little shop in deep norfolk very shabby chic styles fab wicker basket wear,textiles, bunting,etc.
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Bio: Bespoke ecommerce solutions, mobile app development and web design from a creative agency based in sunny Southwold, Suffolk.
Bio: We are here to help people to eat well, move more and live longer. A few small changes will help you make a big difference! Don't delay...start today!!!
@creativeintent Bio: Our Restaurant & Bar has great food, fantastic wines & quality beers to enjoy in a charming, relaxed environment. You can even stay in our Boutique Hotel. Enjoy
@the_mulberry Bio: Specialising in Fascias Soffits & Guttering. However able to undertake all general property maintenance.
@Jc_homeworks
August 2012
9. Informal Business Mix business-related content with less formal content, people will lose interest if bombarded with work related updates and posts. For example, allow your followers behind the scenes occasionally, showing them a little more than they’d ordinarily see will improve your client relationships.
If you need any assistance in setting up any Social Media Accounts.
@healthytowns Bio: Spider Solutions Web Design: We Build, We Maintain and We Host Websites. We build iphone Apps and we ensure your website is viewable on smart phones.
@sp1dersolutions Bio: Dispatch Magazine is YOUR Community magazine in: Attleborough, Bury St Edmunds, Dereham, Diss, Watton and Wymondham. We have 152,000 readers every month!
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ELDERLY 23
Depression In Older Dementia And music Adults And The Elderly
Dementia is rapidly becoming the health and social care challenge of the 21st century.
Recognise the Signs and Find Treatment that Works. The changes that often come in later life - retirement, the death of loved ones, increased isolation, medical problems - can lead to depression. Depression prevents you from enjoying life like you used to. But its effects go far beyond mood. It also impacts your energy, sleep, appetite, and physical health. However, depression is not an inevitable part of aging, and there are many steps you can take to overcome the symptoms, no matter the challenges you face.
depression, or don’t take the steps to get the help they need. There are many reasons depression in older adults and the elderly is so often overlooked: • You may assume you have good reason to be down or that depression is just part of aging. • You may be isolated - which in itself can lead to depression - with few around to notice your distress. • You may not realise that your physical complaints are signs of depression.
Have you lost interest in the activities you used to enjoy?
• You may be reluctant to talk about your feelings or ask for help.
Do you struggle with feelings of helplessness and hopelessness?
Depression isn’t a sign of weakness or a character flaw.
Are you finding it harder and harder to get through the day?
It can happen to anyone, at any age, no matter your background or your previous accomplishments in life.
Numbers affected are set to soar because of an expanding older population. The total number of people with dementia in the UK is predicted to be in excess of 1m by 2021. So, while there are no long-term cures, ways of alleviating symptoms are becoming more available and accessible. As populations of developed nations age, so the number of cases of dementia increases. As a way of helping care for and support people with dementia, music has been shown to often have a dramatic effect.
grey matter is an increasingly key feature of dementia care. It seems to reach parts of the damaged brain in ways other forms of communication cannot. Organisations like Singing for the Brain, Music for Life, Lost Chord, Golden Oldies and Live Music Now, have made it possible for every care home in the country to have access to live musicians, both professional and amateur, most of them trained to deal with the special needs of an elderly, memory-impaired audience. For further information on these organisations visit: www.ageuk.org.uk.
Whether it’s 60s soul, operatic arias or songs from the shows, music can soothe, stimulate and bring to mind longforgotten memories. The power of music, especially singing, to unlock memories and to kick-start the
If so, you’re not alone. Depression is a common problem in older adults. The symptoms of depression affect every aspect of your life, including your energy, appetite, sleep, and interest in work, hobbies, and relationships. Unfortunately, all too many depressed seniors fail to recognise the symptoms of
Similarly, physical illness, loss, and the challenges of aging don’t have to keep you down. Whether you’re 18 or 80, you don’t have to live with depression. Senior depression can be treated, and with the right support, treatment, and self-help strategies you can feel better and live a happy and vibrant life.
August 2012
24 ELDERLY
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From The Field To The Freezer How Wiltshire Farm Foods’ carefully prepared frozen meals are helping people stay independent. For those who’ve worked hard all their lives, maintaining independence is particularly important - especially when it comes to mealtimes. Wiltshire Farm Foods is one company that’s keen to help those who can’t get out and about as much, so they can eat well and look after themselves. Established for more than 20 years, Wiltshire Farm Foods creates and delivers a delicious range of frozen meals that can be cooked in minutes.
and award-winning chefs in their Wiltshire kitchens. Once cooked, the meals are placed into handy trays that fit easily into the freezer, then frozen almost immediately to lock in the freshness.
As they are cooked in their trays, there is no preparation, no pots and pans, just delicious meals that you can enjoy in your own time.
Convenience is a key part of the Wiltshire Farm Foods offering.
Maintaining independence has never been easier.
All meals can be ordered over the phone or online.
Recently, national treasure Ronnie Corbett joined Wiltshire Farm Foods for a TV and magazine campaign promoting the delicious
From the field, to the freezer, every detail is considered in order to offer nutrition, value, flavour and awardwinning personal service.
They’re then delivered by a friendly, local delivery driver, who is always happy to put meals away in the freezer if preferred.
Ingredients are selected from carefully approved suppliers and are then prepared by a team of nutritionists
With the freezer stocked up, you know that a hot meal is only ever a few minutes away.
South Norfolk Mobility To celebrate the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee and the UK hosting of the 2012 Olympic Games, we would like to offer our customers 10% discount, when purchasing a new or second hand scooter or power chair, priced at £500.00 or over. This offer lasts for July and August 2012. To qualify, simply cut out this advert, and
August 2012
Most dishes take 8-12 minutes in the microwave or 35 minutes in the oven.
bring along when you come to purchase a scooter or powerchair. (Copies not accepted. One voucher per purchase). We look forward to making your year something to remember.
meals - and the independence they bring. The TV adverts also feature Edith and Eric, who talk to Ronnie about the benefits of the service. If you’ve not seen them yet, keep a look out. For more information about Wiltshire Farm Foods in Norfolk and North Suffolk, you can call 01362 699049 or visit www.wiltshirefarmfoods.com for a free brochure.
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ELDERLY 25
Specialist Dementia Care At Its Best
NBR Scooter Brokers
With a number of recent news articles portraying poor care within care homes, especially within the Dementia market, one Norfolk care home in particular is bucking the trend.
Their main objective is to provide impartial advice together with a friendly and efficient service!!
• Powerchairs
Westfield House is a registered care home for people suffering from Dementia. The home is small and intimate with just 14 en-suite bedrooms. All rooms are furnished to hotel standards but are personalised to suit each new resident, with residents encouraged to bring in their own personal belongings. The Home provides a range of assisted bathrooms, showers and accompanying mobility aids. The Home also has a spacious lounge and conservatory both offering large flat screen televisions.
They offer the service of a free, no obligation, home demonstration for all of their products to ensure they are suitable for your needs.
• Adjustable beds
Meal times are an important part of the day and Westfield House offers 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, their families and staff. The Home has an Activities Co-ordinator who organises activities on a
daily basis for the Residents. These are led by resident’s requests and family’s suggestions and have included cinema afternoons, arts and crafts, external entertainment, quizzes and reminiscent based events. Resident’s parties are organised on a regular basis and at all times the Home believes in maintaining social interaction between residents, their families and friends. Westfield House is owned by Norfolk based company Black Swan International Limited who have 10 care homes in Norfolk and Essex. They are an experienced care operator that prides itself in putting residents needs and feelings first. The dignity and independence of each resident is promoted within all of the Company’s Care Homes.
NBR Scooter Brokers is a family run business which prides itself on their commitment to their customers (existing and new!!)
• Rise & recline armchairs
• Bathlifts • 3 & 4 wheel walkers
Whilst their core business is the supply of new mobility scooters, they also have a selection of pre-owned scooters as they offer a part exchange service. In addition to mobility scooters, they can also supply the following: • Stairlifts • Powered wheelchairs
• Attendant and self propelled wheelchairs Apart from selling, they also offer a hire service, together with repairs, servicing and insurance work. NBR scooter brokers are accredited with Norfolk trusted traders which is organised by Norfolk County Council.
For more information, to request a brochure or to arrange a visit Westfield House can be contacted on 01362 697828 or visit their website www.blackswan.co.uk
August 2012
26 DISPATCH BUSINESS DIRECTORY
August 2012
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DISPATCH BUSINESS DIRECTORY 27
August 2012
28 DISPATCH BUSINESS DIRECTORY
August 2012
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30 MOTORING
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Vauxhall Insignia BiTurbo SRi Sports Tourer By Tim Barnes-Clay Twitter: @carwriteups Visit: www.carwriteups.co.uk. THERE ARE many things I like about this car and just a couple of tiny things I don’t. Let’s get the grumbles out of the way first.
in its most commanding diesel engine ever. It produces 192 bhp and 295 lb/ft of torque, and yet CO2 emissions are only 134 g/km.
The Vauxhall Insignia needs better wing mirrors. They’re just too small and narrow to give you a confident view - especially when changing lanes on motorways. The other small niggle is the steering wheel. It’s big enough to belong in a bus. But these minor issues are eclipsed by the motor’s merits.
The heady, twin-sequential turbocharged oil-burner is based on the existing 1956 cc unit that powers key models in the Insignia, Astra and Zafira Tourer range. However, in BiTurbo form it delivers an extra 34.5 bhp and a significant 37 lb/ft of further ‘get-up-and-go’. The result for the Sports Tourer is 0-60 mph in 8.4 seconds. It’s the sort of acceleration that gives you that perceptible ‘pulled back into your seat’ feeling.
For a start, the Insignia is a good looking estate (Sports Tourer in today’s parlance). It comes loaded with equipment; it’s practical; it’s comfortable, and it’s satisfying to drive. But the model on test here - the BiTurbo SRi Sports Tourer - is not just the usual griffin labelled, load-lugging, mile-muncher. Why? Because under the bonnet, Vauxhall has shoehorned
Complementing this power gain, Vauxhall’s FlexRide adaptive damping is standard on all Insignia BiTurbos (normally a £790 option on front-wheel drive models). The system can ‘learn’ how you drive the car and adapts
the dampers accordingly. You can also select Tour and Sport buttons, and configure the throttle, steering and damper settings in Sport mode separately. The result is a car which is more rewarding to drive than many other large turbo diesel motors on the market. In Sport mode it’s taut, quick, and it takes corners on rails. In Tour mode it’s a gracious and unflappable vehicle, and one which will give you a magic carpet ride to work. In normal mode, it’s simply a good estate car with poke.
PROS • Powerful • Comfortable • Economical • Good-looking • Practical CONS
Unsurprisingly, the Sports Tourer has a big area for loading, and cleverly, under the powered tailgate (which incorporates the rear light clusters), there is an additional set of rear lights, making the car highly visible to other road users if you need to sort out your luggage after the sun has gone down. Finally, thanks to a package of eco features – including standard Start/ Stop across the range – the Insignia BiTurbo Sports Tourer manages to achieve a combined 55.4 mpg. This is the last piece of the jigsaw to make the car a great all-rounder. It’s economical and spacious enough to be the main family car; its emissions are
August 2012
low enough to make it an affordable yet very smart business motor, and, of course, the potency of its engine will bring out the devil in you when you feel the need for speed.
• Small wing mirrors • Large steering wheel FAST FACTS • Max speed: 140 mph • 0-60 mph: 8.4 secs • Combined mpg: 55.4 • Engine: 1956 cc 4 cylinder 16 valve twin-turbo diesel • Max. power (bhp): 192 at 4000 rpm • Max. torque (lb/ft): 295 at 1750-2500 rpm • CO2: 134 g/km • Price: £28,615 on the road
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MOTORING 31
Complete Car Care Operating from a fully mobile workshop, Complete Car Care comes to your home or office, saving you time, hassle and money! With over 17 years experience, we give a professional and friendly service repairing all kinds of minor damage to your car from scratches to scuffs, stone chips to alloy wheels and interior trim damage. All at a fraction of the cost of dealership or body shop prices. And we do not charge VAT.
For all enquiries please ring or e-mail. Tim Mitchell Complete Car Care Tel 01362 683832 Mob 07778 755149 E-mail: tim@completecarcare.org.uk.
Using the vehicle’s paint code, we can match the colour and therefore keep the repair local rather than having to spray the whole panel. We also machine polish cars which helps to eliminate minor scratches and marks, restoring the vehicle’s paintwork and shine. All this comes with the peace of mind that all work completed is fully guaranteed.
POST MILL GARAGE (P)
August 2012