Dispatch Magazine - Wymondham, Dereham and Watton - Christmas 2010

ISSUE 0 8 Dispatch November 010

NEWS FOR WYMONDHAM, DEREHAM & WATTON RESIDENTS

ian Dickenss Fayre a Christm Web e h T & s Busines as Christm g! n Is Comi !... & More

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GENERAL News

Pitman Training The Open Day at Learn Direct with Pitman Training held on October 14th at the Dereham branch situated in Trafalgar House, Rash’s Green Industrial Estate, was a huge success with a lot of interest in the courses available, these courses which range from Literacy, Numeracy, ITQ and ECDL are free due to Government funding.

Courses are free if you are on benefits or qualified lower than NVQ level 2.

The courses are all completely online meaning work can be carried out at home, at your own pace and capability.

These courses seem to be popular with people who haven’t been in full time education for a while. As the experience can be quite daunting and students maybe apprehensive. The tutors are really friendly and some are even former students of the Pitman Training courses.

The reason for the Open Day’s is to help provide the opportunity for prospective students to come along and see what Pitman Training can offer them. It is the first daunting step for a lot people who are interested in furthering their education but who need that boost of confidence to help push them forward, this support can be given by our friendly team members who can answer any queries potential students may have.

Pitman Training Centre at Rash’s Green,

Dispatch November 2010

Dereham are currently able to offer Literacy up to level 2 (equivalent to GCSE Grade A-C), Numeracy up to level 2 (equivalent to GCSE Grade A-C) fully funded which means it doesn’t cost you a penny, if, as stated above you are on benefits or are qualified lower than NVQ level 2.

Pitman is also offering the European Computer Driving License which covers word processing, spreadsheets, presentations and improving productivity using IT and the IT Qualification (ITQ) covering word processing, spreadsheets, databases, presentations and email systems all at level 2. ECDL is recognised worldwide by employers and is the world’s largest end-user computer skills certification programme. With the demands of today’s fast-paced business environment it’s vital you keep your skills up-to-date.

There are different types of funding available so it is important for individuals to contact the centre

on 01603 619769 to arrange an appointment to see an advisor who can go through all the options with them.

News from across your region

Christmas Is Coming!

Dispatch Magazine is owned and published by Spider Solutions Publishing Ltd. Director & Editor: Jonathan Horswell Queens House, Queens Square Attleborough, Norfolk , NR17 2AE. Tel: 01953 456789 Fax: 01953 451177 Email: sales@dispatch-magazine.co.uk Web: www.dispatch-magazine.co.uk

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Advertising: 01953 456789 Advertising Manager: Jayne Ashby Sales Team: Stephanie Lees, Elena Hewett and Lucy Olcot.

Email: sales@dispatch-magazine.co.uk Design: Matt Bignell & Stuart Breens design@dispatch-magazine.co.uk Distribution: Vision Gaze Tel: 07887 761571 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.

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In this issue FEATURES

WYMONDHAM

DEREHAM

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Christmas Is Coming It’s That Time Of Year Again.

04

18

Business And The Web Hosting Security.

06

Caring For The Elderly

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A Dickensian Event.

News And Advice.

30

Health, Beauty & Wellbeing Looking And Feeling Great.

Wymondham Christmas Fayre

Re-Brand For Sportspark

Live Entertainment And More.

Reaching Out To The Community.

WATTON

Santa Runs

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Raising Money For EACH.

12

Christmas Lights Event

Hope Community Church High-Sea Pantomine Adventure.

Breckland Competition Winner Paul Wins Photography Prize.

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Watton Christmas Craft Fair Looking For Something Different?

November 2010 Issue 038

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

November 12th 2010 Editorial submissions: T: 01953 456789 E: editorial@dispatch-magazine.co.uk Readers are invited to submit editorial.

The Publishers reserve the right to amend such submissions and cannot accept responsibility for any loss.

Designed and published by Spider Solutions Publishing Ltd www.SpiderSolutions.co.uk

Dispatch November 2010

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WELCOME TO

WYMONDHAM

Wymondham Lions will once again be holding their Dickensian Christmas Fayre. This year the event will take place on Thursday 2nd December.

As usual the evening begins at 6.00pm when Father Christmas travels by Sleigh, followed by the Town Mayor in a Landau Carriage from Back Lane.

His arrival at the bandstand in the Market Square signals the start of the evening’s entertainment and the switching on of the Town’s Christmas Lights. Father Christmas will then proceed to his Grotto where children can visit him.

Around the Market Square will be the usual array of craft, charity and various other stalls and attractions, with many local retailers also opening late for the evening. A varied programme of

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entertainment is also planned throughout the evening.

One stall which is a “must visit” is the Wymondham Lions stall where once again you will be able to purchase your prize draw ticket to win one of this year’s “Dickens of a Hamper” which are yet again kindly sponsored by Williams Lea. You won’t feel on “Hard Times” or have a “Bleak House” this year but can have “Great Expectations” if you win one of our seasonal hampers. The contents are valued at over £ 0.00 and are in a large reusable garden Trug. A ticket costs just £1.00 and we hope you will be singing “A Christmas Carol” if you win!

The draw for the Hampers takes place at approximately 8. 0pm on the night.

This popular yearly event has now been going over 0 years and we hope that people will come along again and join us to mark the start of Christmas in the picturesque market town of Wymondham.

Although the roads in the town centre will be closed from .00pm, the car parks will remain open as usual.

Wymondham Lions would like to thank all our generous sponsors without whom, this event would not happen. Wymondham Lions Dickensian Christmas Fayre is organised by a small team of dedicated volunteers from the Lions Club in their

own time and is an event aimed at bringing the community of Wymondham together.

If you would be interested in joining Wymondham Lions, please contact us via our website: www.wymondhamlionsnorfolkuk/ lionwap.org Email wymondhamlions@live.co.uk or contact our Membership Secretary Brian Bodiam 01953 607580

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WYMONDHAM News

Sportspark Re-Brand Aims To Reach Out To The Community Sportspark, the UK’s largest indoor sports venue, based in Norwich has gone through a re-brand. The move aims to make it clearer that the facilities are open all day, everyday for the community.

Sportspark which is based at the University of East Anglia is entering its 10th anniversary year. It offers world class facilities to all members of the public including: • Two 5m pools that convert to one 50m pool at certain times.

• Fitness Centre with over 90 exercise stations.

• Five sports halls which accommodate 0 badminton courts.

• 5 glass backed squash courts.

• Norfolk’s highest indoor climbing wall, the Peak.

• Six 7-a-side floodlit Astro-turf pitches.

• Four 5-a-side state of the art G pitches.

• 8 lane athletics track.

The re-brand which includes a new logo, website, advertising campaign and promotional literature has been carried out after market research. One aspect concluded there was a perception of Sportspark being solely for those at the University of East Anglia or for elite athletes.

Keith Nicholls, Director of Sportspark said: “It is really important that the local community are aware we are open to people of all ages and abilities who want to get more active. From those questioned in our market research we found 80% of people in the local community don’t take part in any exercise or sport. They agree that they should exercise for health reasons, but their perception is that sports facilities are geared towards the committed and elite, not the average person. Our new branding aims to demonstrate that Sportspark is open every day for all the community.”

He added: “We provide taster sessions, as well as 6 week short courses, for a range of sports, so people don’t have to commit huge amounts of money and can find out what suits them. Although we offer a range of value for money memberships, our pay and play system means people can simply turn up whenever they want and be active.”

Sportspark is expanding and will soon offer even more facilities. Three new 7-aside G synthetic grass pitches are being added onto the Soccerpark and are due to open early in 011. A fully equipped Olympic Gymnastics Centre is also due to be built during the next year.

Norfolk & Suffolk Power Flushing Any of these symptoms in my advert could indicate that your central heating system had problems from internal corrosion, rust, sludge and scale.

A power flush can restore circulation and efficiency to your central heating system by removing these products. The process involves connecting a power flushing pump to the existing central heating pump valves, or across the tails of a radiator.

Specialist chemicals are then pumped around the heating system to loosen and mobilise the unwanted debris. Each radiator is then individually flushed until clean and on completion, an inhibitor is added to prevent further corrosion.

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For more information about Sportspark visit www.sportspark.co.uk

The whole process is carried out with minimal disturbance and disruption.

For more information on for a free no obligation quote, ring Paul on (01508) 532671 or 07879 414197.

Or alternatively go to www.suffolkpowerflushing.co.uk

News from across your region

Evening Lady After the success of our first Ladies Burlesque Shoes Event Night held at Park Farm Country Hotel, Hethersett in September, we are getting ready and planning our next, and last for this year on Friday 19th November.

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

We have just received a big shipment of reconditioned laptops from £1 9 which would make an excellent christmas present and are now taking deposits!

We also have a wide range of both new, factory refurbished and reconditioned PC’s and Laptops. Free Data Transfer From Your Old PC / Laptop To New!!

It was a great night and we would like to thank those who attended and enjoyed viewing, trying and buying some of our ranges.

With Ladies Evening Handbags to match any outfit or Christmas Party, with a Free Draw to win a £50 voucher to be won again, come and join us.

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 kind 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 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 £ 9.99 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. 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.

More and more people are now using internet and phone to make contact rather than face to face. That 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.

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WYMONDHAM News

EACH - Santa Runs Every year EACH hold sponsored Santa Runs to raise funds for the charity. This year there are six events happening across East Anglia, all routes being between 1.5 and 3km.

The events are suitable for all ages and levels of fitness - you can sprint, jog, or enjoy the route at a leisurely stroll, it’s entirely up to you!

Registration Fees Are: £10 for entrants aged 1 or over (includes Santa suit and p&p). £8.50 for entrants aged 1 or over if you have your own costume £5 for children aged 1 and under Places are limited so please register early.

Events are happening in the following towns: Bury St Edmunds Sunday 8th November Peterborough Sunday 5th December King’s Lynn Sunday 5th December

Cambridge Sunday 1 th December Lowestoft Sunday 1 th December Ipswich Sunday 1 th December Bury St Edmunds Santa Parade and Fun Run, Sunday 28th November The run is starting and finishing at Charter Square in the Arc shopping centre, starting at 10. 0am. Route approx .5km, suitable for pushchairs and wheelchairs.

The event is raising funds for EACH’s Treehouse Appeal.

For information on the other events or to sign up for a Santa Run visit www.each.org.uk.

The Tree House Appeal aims to raise £ ,000,000 to build and equip a new hospice in a donated plot of woodland in Ipswich. It will be a single storey building, set in mature woodland with scenic views from each bedroom.

The current hospice bungalow in Ipswich is inadequate, with no dedicated space for specialist services required by families.

It was intended for a maximum capacity of 50 families, but currently cares for more than 80. The new building will provide greater privacy, more space for family accommodation and dedicated areas for specialist therapies.

Floor It And Save Money Normally when you deal with larger flooring retailers it involves a lot of people in the chain, with Floor It its all done with one person, Russell Taylor.

Russell has been fitting for nearly 11 years, he was trained to fit carpets by one of the best known family firms in Norfolk.

He was also trained by Amticos training centre in Epsom to lay and Karndean, and

by the best laminate manufacture there is Pergo Top Lay Laminates in Oxford.

Karndean and Amtico can offer a unique look to match your requirements they are both beautiful and hard wearing.

The great thing about contacting Russell for a quote is he has very low overheads, and can pass on those benefits to his customers meaning 99% of the time he can beat shop prices.

Call him now for more information on 01328 863630

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News from across your region

Supreme Bathrooms Supreme Bathrooms are an independent family run business now in their 12th year of trading, specialising in all the latest bathroom products from their terrific Wymondham showroom.

We caught up with Mr & Mrs Seymour after Supreme Bathrooms had recently completed their new en-suite & cloakroom.

1. What made you choose Supreme Bathrooms for your bathroom makeover? Reputation and recommendations.

2. What did you think of their design service and were you happy with their idea’s? Right from the start Neil was in tune with our ideas and the design reflected his flair for getting the right products in the right place.

3. Are you happy with the installation of your new bathrooms and all aspects of the work carried throughout to completion? Peter the fitter was very professional in his work and extremely neat and tidy throughout the job.

4. What products have you now got installed in your new bathroom and has the finished bathrooms matched your expectations? Complete reworking

of the en-suite including building work, new shower and enclosure, toilet, sink and a range of beech fitted cupboards. The flooring was also replaced. We now have a digital power shower with a larger bow shower enclosure, and a fancy LED mirror over our sink.

5. Would you recommend Supreme Bathrooms to our Dispatch readers?

Without hesitation I would recommend Supreme Bathrooms to anyone wishing to have a new top specification bathroom designed and fitted by Neil and his team!!!

Visit Supreme Bathrooms of Wymondham now for your bathroom makeover.

Paul Evans Marathon Training Tips Local elite runner and former Chicago Marathon winner Paul Evans recently spoke to Wymondham based Physical Education web site TeachPE.com about his marathon training tips especially for the beginner!

1. Don’t increase your weekly mileage by more than 10% per week. Even if you have been ill or injured and want to play catch up... don’t!

2. Join a club where you will find experienced coaches who can give good advice as well as other similar minded runners to help you along during the dark winter months.

3. Recovery is vital. It is too easy to get obsessed with training but allowing the body to recover is part of training.

4. Speedwork. No, not Usain Bolt track sprinting but simply running shorter distances faster than your normal race pace. This will make the marathon pace seem much more comfortable.

5. The key session or most important session each week is the long run. If you only get one training session in

per week make it a long run on the weekend, gradually increasing the distance each week. It is also best if possible to do the long runs with other athletes to make it more fun.

6. Try splitting your training runs into two parts. Run out half the distance and then try and beat your time on the way back. This will also simulate race conditions and add a bit of competition to the run.

View the full interview and others at www.teachpe.com/road_running/ paul_evans_marathon_training.php TeachPE.com is a local based web site specialising in physical education and sports coaching where you can also view a video of the routes of many local road running routes online.

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WYMONDHAM News

Interior Colour Trends For 2011 Dulux Design Service interior designer Stephen Lait says...

“As the night’s start to draw in and the Christmas catalogues begin hitting our door mats with a thump it’s time to start planning for the next serious decorating season.”

“People should start thinking about their 2011 decorative projects now. Do as much research as you can as you will be surprised by how long the process can take. Start talking with tradesmen, as the good ones still get booked up very quickly, also by planning now you could take advantage of autumn and Christmas sales. The key new colour for 2011 is a light airy, citrus yellow that symbolizes a sense of fun and positive energy.

This refreshing colour gives hope and optimism for the future.”

Stephen Lait based in Sporle, Norfolk is an experienced interior designer with over 10 year’s practical experience; he undertakes residential, commercial and property development projects. He is also a guest tutor at Ruskin University

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Cambridge, University College Suffolk and Interior Design school KLC at Chelsea Harbour in London.

Stephen offers professional and affordable interior design solutions, 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.

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.

‘Dulux’, ‘Dulux Design Service’ and the Dulux Design Service logo are trademarks of The AkzoNobel Group of Companies.

Giveacar East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH) has turned old cars into thousands of pounds of much-needed funds after teaming up with not-for-profit organisation Giveacar.

The scheme, in which donated cars are sold for scrap metal and the proceeds donated to charity, has raised £5,582 for EACH since they became affiliated with Giveacar in February this year.

EACH cares for children and young people with life-threatening conditions and offers support to their families across Cambridgeshire, Essex, Norfolk and Suffolk.

They offer a range of care and support services including music therapy, short break care and bereavement support. To deliver their services, EACH needs to raise £4 million each year in voluntary donations.

Lindsey Newton, EACH press and media officer, said: “The Giveacar scheme has proved to be hugely successful in turning metal to money for (EACH). There is no doubt that the promotion of this scheme within the local area has been vital to its success.

“The highly effective scheme is down to the hard work of Giveacar and we at EACH are

incredibly grateful to them for helping us fundraise for such a vital cause.

“As a registered charity, we rely on public support and are thankful for the collaboration and support that the Giveacar scheme has provided us with.”

Giveacar has donated over £125,000 to charities across the UK since it was founded in January. The social enterprise arranges for old cars to be collected and taken to an Authorised Treatment Facility (ATF), where they are dismantled according to strict environmental codes of practice. The money raised from the car’s scrap metal is then donated to a charity of the car owner’s choice.

For more information please visit www.giveacar.co.uk and www.each.org.uk.

News from across your region

Unique Building Supplies

Artichoke An interview with... Sarah Simonds of Artichoke.

Unique Building Supplies, Norfolk have opened their new one-stop depot at Eleven Mile Lane, Suton, Nr Wymondham.

The new depot includes all our stock of heavy-side and plumbing materials.

Managing Director, Andy Nicholls explains: “Location is very important in any business and our new site offers excellent access just off the main A11.”

“Having established the business in Wymondham our new depot will enable anybody requiring building and plumbing materials in the Attleborough area easier access to a Builders/Plumbing merchant.”

“At present there is the frustration of going through the one way system in Attleborough and often getting held up at the railway level crossing. Alternatively having to drive out of town two or three miles into the country. We specifically looked at easy access for customers, and have managed to source this with good customer parking. Together with this move our extensive stock range now includes more timber, fencing panels

and hard landscaping materials. We feel that the location is excellent for servicing both growing towns of Wymondham and Attleborough. However with our fleet of crane off load vehicles and transit vans we can deliver all over the county on a daily basis.”

“We would be delighted to see customers, old and new, at Suton and look forward to you visiting our BUILDING AND PLUMBING SUPPLIES!” Andy Nicholls, Unique Building Supplies (Norfolk) Ltd Tel: 01953 857230

What Are The Key Trends This Season?

Charcoal is the key colour for this winter and the 0’s look is huge. This trend for more tailored clothing is great for those of us who feel we no longer have the figure or confidence for the jeggings and tops that are flooding the High Street.

The 0’s can be found at Artichoke in our range of more formal clothing. We have a fantastic red and charcoal plaid jacket which can be teamed up with a boiled wool pencil skirt to recreate the Greta Garbo look. Even an old faithful like the waterfall cardigan has been updated this season with a glamorous button detail at the cuff. Although our philosophy at Artichoke is style over high fashion, this winter as one means the other we might find ourselves (unwittingly) being fasionistas.

What Would You Recommend As The Investment Piece This Season For Any Woman Over 40?

A decent bra. This is my advice every season - unfortunately most of the independent lingerie stores in the area have disappeared so I always recommend Bravissimo to my customers - I should have shares in the company!

What Will You Be Buying From Artichoke This Season?

As soon as they arrive I will be grabbing a pair of Oscar B jeans – they are a fantastic cut with a little bit of lycra to help the tum and a fraction of the price of NYD Jeans a real bargain. Today I took the purple boiled wool coat from Cazz, I’ve got my eye on another Grenouille shirt - I could go on and on and on...

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High-Sea Pantomine Adventure Mayhem and mutiny on the high seas are all part of the pantomime spectacular that is scheduled for Wymondham on Friday, November 26th at 7pm.

The production of Treasure Island at Wymondham High School promises buried gold, villainous pirates and hearty shipmates for a bumper all-age festive treat. Based on Robert Louis Stevenson’s classic novel there will be plenty of fun, fantasy and fortune with Long John Silver, Jack Hawkins and the crew of the ‘Hispaniola’.

The event is hosted by Hope Community Church Wymondham and performed by the Saltmine Theatre Company at the start of its new national tour. The company is made up of a string of seasoned artists that tour schools, church and communities

across the UK with a variety of tailored productions for far-reaching audiences.

Treasure Island keeps the treasure trail at the fore for maximum pleasure and a thrilling finale for all the family. Don’t miss the event.

Tickets: £5.00 (adults), £3.50 (children under 16) and £15.00 (family ticket of two adults and two children) are available from Helen and Norman Illsley.

Email: helen.norman.i@uwclub.net, Telephone: 01953 600563 or credit card hotline : 01384 454808.

No Cold Calling Zone Residents in Wymondham have joined forces to stamp out bogus callers.

A ‘No Cold Calling Zone’ has been launched by the residents in Gaynor Close, who have been working closely with their local Safer Neighbourhood Team(SNT) and Norfolk County Councils Trading Standards Department, to help protect themselves against bogus callers and rogue traders knocking at their doors.

Anyone visiting the area will now see a sign on the lamp post at the entrance to the close and stickers displayed in windows of houses to warn potential callers that local residents are not interested in buying goods or services on their doorstep.

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Police Community Support Officer Sarah Caddy, who worked with the residents to get the zone established said, “The ‘No Cold Calling Zone’ means that residents can feel safe in their own home, knowing that they have the power to say no to suspicious callers and that it is ok to report anything they are unsure of.”

NO COLD CALLING

News from across your region

Reality’s Dream To Be Signed In Ink

Dispatch Joins The Power Of Twitter

Poverty, abuse and prejudice have failed to topple courageous woman of faith, Coralita Martin.

Have you yet to discover Twitter ?

As a school girl she changed history when she became the first youngster from the slums in Antigua to win a school scholarship.

Co-author Sandie Shirley from Tacolneston, a former Archant reporter, met Coralita while working for the Thetford and Watton Times. She says:

She has gone from the slums of Antigua to the suburbs of London and the wilds of Norfolk to pursue the doorways of destiny and open the annals of learning for thousands of youngsters for 50 years.

The first black teacher in Thetford and Watton – and many schools in London – will be signing her dream in ink at bookshops around the county to help launch her epic biography Courage to Dream – the impossible becomes reality, published in October by Last Word Publications.

Coralita, 77, fought injustice, silenced misery and out-lasted fear during eviction, near-death, a violent marriage and forced departure to the East End of London where she faced racism and hardship. She lived in a tiny twobedroom house with a tin roof by the beach that had no kitchen, bathroom or electricity and did not own a pair of shoes until she was a teenager.

“This book had to be written after I discovered a woman with an epic biography mined in the deep caverns of suffering. Terrible tragedy has forged an invincible spirit in Coralita that has turned the countless trials into golden miles as she has walked with God. Her story provides hope for others no matter how tough life gets.”

Courage to Dream – the impossible becomes reality, by Coralita Martin with Sandie Shirley is available at £7.99. (lastwordpublications.com), ISBN 97809559 9

In case you wondered about the power of ‘Tweeting’, Coca Cola would tell you that it’s “phenominal”. After the company purchased the second ever “promoted tweet“, it saw 85 million impressions in the first hours.

According to articles in the Financial Times, those 85 million impressions translated to a rate of 6% engagement, versus a typical 0. % for any other type of online ad.

So did Twitter just set a heavy foot into the advertising industry? For businesses that want to tap into the market, the answer is a resounding yes. Of course, timing is still everything, and Coca Cola decided to run the tweet during the US vs England World Cup match. Given that the US and the UK are two of the largest populations on Twitter, it only makes sense.

Dispatch Magazine has recently joined the World of Twitter

http://twitter.com/#!/Dispatch_Mag and already is being followed by an ever increasing number of fellow Twitters.

The King of Twitter Stephen Fry recently said “I can sit in the back of a taxi, write a Tweet in less than 1 minute, and push it out to over 1.5 million followers instantly”. Dispatch has a way to go to reach the same number of followers, but every journey starts with a first step!

Keep fully up to date with all that is going on inside the Dispatch office by following us on Twitter.

TM

Book Signings: October 30th The Book Fountain, Wharton’s Court, Wymondham ( - pm), November 5th Wellspring, Church on the Way, Grenville Way, Thetford (6-10pm); J C Books (Applestore Gallery), 55 High Street, Watton (11am-1 noon).

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WYMONDHAM News

Where Are Our Wildwoods?

By Joan Garnham, Waveney Tree Specialists The British Isles are among the least wooded countries in Europe. The woodland canopy covers less than 15% of the land.

During the last 60 years more than half of native woodland has become open fields, conifer plantation and housing.

When the Ice Age was ending Britain was treeless tundra and still joined to the continent. As the climate improved, the setting was ripe for the invasion of trees.

The first to arrive were dwarf birch, juniper, willow and Scots pine. Further increase in temperature saw oak, hazel, ash and elm; these trees gradually became the dominant species with lime in the east, alder in the wetlands and pine in the far north (Great Wood of Caledon). Together, this formed the untamed wild woodland covering most of Britain up to Saxon times.

From the Stone Age onwards, man’s impact on the wildwood grew. It is estimated that three men with stone axes could fell 600 sq yds of forest in a day. By the Norman Conquest the boundless wild wood was already folklore.

The Romans introduced walnut, elder and sweet chestnut; and by the 16th C,

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horse chestnut, and sycamore became established, changing the broadleaf canopy forever. A thousand years ago, woods were crucial to the economy; providing fuel, building material and cover for herds of deer (food for the rich). They managed the woods mainly by coppicing.

Most broad leaved trees regenerate when cut down by sending up new shoots; these were very tasty to cattle and deer so the practice of pollarding arose, coppicing higher up between 6 – 15ft.

Best examples of ancient pollarding can be found in Burnham Beeches, New Forest and Hatfield Forest. Among the coppiced woods, some trees were left to reach maturity, especially oak. These maiden or untouched trees were grown for their timber used in buildings and boats.

Since the Middle Ages and after the kings relinquished the hunting forests, charcoal burners moved into fuel the iron furnaces.

The great oaks were felled to build Tudor towns and Georgian fleets. Add to this, two world wars (early aeroplanes had wooden frames), felling of woods to pay death duties, removal of hedgerows for agriculture, Dutch elm disease and the

ever growing population; all have lead to the disappearance of the woodland heritage. The wildwood has gone forever but there still remains a precious mosaic of hedgerows, copses and groves, and occasionally, pockets of true forest.

Remnants of the primeval forest, The Great Wood of Caledon, can still be found at Rothiemurchus in the Cairngorms, the Black Wood of Ranoch and Beinn Eighe.

There are less than 20,000 acres left of these pine woods. These support wild life rarely seen outside the Highlands; osprey, red squirrel, crossbill, pine marten, capercaillie, pine beauty moth, and the orchids, lady’s tresses and coralroot. The bears were gone by the tenth century, the last wolf was killed in 1743, elk and wild boar have also been eliminated.

The capercaillie was reintroduced from Sweden in 1837 and seems to be doing well. There is talk of reintroducing the otter – time will tell if this is a bonus or disaster.

At last the Forestry Commission no longer considers the pine forest as a cash crop but now manages the Caledonian pine reserve at Glen Affic.

The Mighty Oak The richest of all wild life habitats is the oak wood. There are 284 different insects that inhabit the oak compared with 5 in the horse chestnut and 1 in the plane tree.

The insects attract tree creeper, nuthatch, wood warbler, bats, pied flycatcher and woodpeckers. Acorns provide food for jay and squirrel. All this wild life attracts the predators, weasel, sparrow hawk, polecat, owls, kestrel.

As the tree matures it becomes invaded by ivy, mosses, lichens and ferns; rarely mistletoe. The light shade and rich mulch underneath encourages wild flowers, bluebell, primrose, wood anemone and snowdrop. The life span is generally around 250 years, but many can live longer. As the tree grows old or becomes stressed e.g. drought or disease, dead branches or stag horns, appear in the crown. Eventually fungi invade the wood causing rot and decay.

Expert advice: 01379 668 636 or 07990 801 388 waveneytrees@btconnect.com www.waveneytrees.co.uk

News from across your region

Electric Forest To Bring Shoeboxes To Trees Alive At Night Children In Need Visitors to Thetford Forest Park in Suffolk will get the opportunity to see the trees in a whole new light this winter (December 3-19), when a specialist visual arts team, working in partnership with the Forestry Commission, will spectacularly transform part of the woodland into an ‘Electric Forest’.

Using swathes of colour, sound and technology to bring the woodland alive after dark, the award winning Culture Creative team, will light up the forest to produce a family friendly trail through the trees. The illuminated walk, which will be approximately 2km in length and take around an hour of walking at a gentle pace, will include sound, music and interactive installations at discreet locations throughout the trail.

Zoe Bottrell, producer and project manager at Culture Creative said: “Our aim with The Electric Forest is to provide an alternative to main stream events at this time of year, by offering a sensory experience involving the sights, smells and sounds of the forest at night. We will be complementing the existing atmosphere with a combination of magic and spectacle with more interactive and intimate elements.”

Peter Rawlinson, High Lodge attractions manager said: “We hope that these illuminated evening walks will offer visitors to Thetford Forest a unique interactive family event as the winter nights draw in. We’re urging people not to miss this opportunity to see the beauty of the trees in a whole new light and experience the magic of the forest after dark.”

There will be three walks per evening – 4.30pm, 6pm and 7.30pm (last admission will be at 8.30pm and event closes at 9.30pm – see website for full details).

Tickets cost £15.50 per adult and £10.00 per concession (fully inclusive of Forestry Commission parking and booking fees) and are on sale now at Thetford Forest Park or via the Forestry Commission Box Office on 01842 814612 or online at www.theelectricforest.co.uk

Julie Jarvis from R J Bartram & Son, Wymondham has set up a collection point for shoeboxes to be sent out to Eastern Europe.

Operation Christmas Child is the world’s largest children’s Christmas appeal with a heritage of 20 years. Last year alone they sent nearly 1.2 million shoeboxes bursting with joy from the UK to children in parts of Africa, Central Asia and Eastern Europe.

This will be the fourth year that R J Bartram & Son have been a ‘drop-off’ point for Operation Christmas Child (Samaritans Purse), they collect and store filled Shoeboxes at R J Bartram & Son from 1st to 18th November, although even if they come in after the closing date, they are never turned away!! Then the boxes are collected and checked by Mrs Shirley Adams and other volunteers, before being forwarded to a central point for distribution.

Guidance about filling the boxes The boxes are for different aged children in need, you chose a boy or girl from one age group then fill your box with things especially for them.

There are certain rules about what to and what not to put in the boxes, so there are leaflets at R J Bartram & Son, so call in and pick one up, or have a chat with Julie Jarvis about how you can help.

Julie Jarvis, R J Bartram & Son, 42 Fairland Street, Wymondham 01953 603 138

Last year R J Bartram & Son collected over 200 boxes, with lots of staff members making up boxes as well. This year they are aiming for more.

Beacon Farm Livery Set in the rural Norfolk countryside of Rocklands, between Watton & Attleborough, you will find Beacon Farm Livery.

A friendly business offering DIY livery for up to 8/10 horses/ponies. Secure paddock with good grazing and shelter available with immediate effect. A new stable block is currently being built, which will provide accomodation for 4 horses on a full livery basis. It is an excellent location for hacking with quiet countryside roads and many tracks and bridle-ways. With plans to

develop and extend the equine facilities over the 9-acre site over the next 12 months, Beacon Farm is a friendly and professional opportunity for horse-lovers in the area.

For more information or viewing, please contact: Maria on 07887 790898 or email: maria@beaconfarm.co.uk.

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www.wymondhamonline.co.uk

WYMONDHAM News

New Phase - New Show Homes

Garden Makeover Gift Vouchers For Christmas

Matthew Homes at Whispering Oaks in Wymondham are delighted to announce the release of the first plots on Phase V of their development.

With some plots already reserved, this new phase looks set to be a repeat success of the previous four phases.

Stuck for ideas of what to buy this Christmas? Why not consider garden makeover gift vouchers to use at any of the following:

Whispering Oaks is the perfect location for enjoying town life with local shops, churches, post office, public houses and well regarded schools. Many families already in residence have said there is already a real community feeling on the development.

to making a brand new home a very attractive proposition. A range of properties are currently being offered for sale from bedroom townhouses priced at £190,000 - bed houses from £ 00,000 and 5 bedroom houses with study and nd en-suite at £ 75,000.

The development also benefits from good public transport with frequent trains to Norwich and Cambridge and links to London from Wymondham’s main line station. There is also a bus route and easy access to the A11.

Two fully furnished show homes are available to view and open daily.

Great attention to detail to the types of properties constructed in terms of style, size and variety of external finishes, presenting a popular and interesting place to live. Add to this, the advantages of new build homes, energy saving features, easy maintenance and manageable gardens all contributing

16 Dispatch November 010

If you would like to know more about Whispering Oaks, please call for information or to request a brochure 01953 859864 or visit the sales centre which open daily from 10am to 5pm.

• Georgina Read Garden Design & Landscaping • www.gardenandbuilding.co.uk • www.pavingsuperstore.co.uk

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!

Contact us on 01953 850802 for more information

So why not let our award-winning, fully qualified landscaping professionals encompass your needs by creating a garden to match your lifestyle - whether you prefer modern and contemporary or timeless and traditional, we can fulfil your requirements.

At Georgina Read Design & Landscaping we specialise in transforming gardens and our flexible approach means we can always meet your requirements for all aspects of landscaping.

As we are also the driving force behind Paving Superstore (www.pavingsuperstore.co.uk) and Anglian Garden & Building Supplies (www.gardenandbuilding.co.uk), both selling huge volumes of hard landscaping materials across the UK, including paving from Marshalls, Bradstone, Brett, Stoneflair, Stonemarket, Pavestone, Global Stone, Strata and Natural Paving, decorative stone, sheds, summerhouses,

CONTACT US TODAY ON 01953 850802 TO DISCUSS YOUR LANDSCAPING REQUIREMENTS See examples of our work at: www.georginaread.co.uk

News from across your region

J&S Homeworks Get your Fascia, Soffits & Gutters cleaned, inspected & maintained ready for the winter.

Once a gutter becomes blocked, rainwater will flow directly off the roof onto the walls and windows of your home, as well as onto access paths.

Seriously neglected gutters often have weeds growing in them, adding to the problem. Water constantly overflowing from blocked gutters damages bricks and mortar and can cause extensive damp on the outside and mould on the inside of your house as it is absorbed by the bricks, making even the most beautiful of homes appear unsightly.

The benefits of having UPVC fascias and Gutters installed, is that when maintained, they can provide years and years of service and can always be brought back to a likenew condition.

Over time dirt, mould and mildew can build up on the exterior of your property which, in turn, can make UPVC look discoloured and unpleasant, this not only looks unsightly, but can also cause damage if not kept clean.

Gutters can easily become blocked by leaves, feathers, dirt and debris blown into them.

J & S Homeworks can bring your UPVC back to its original condition again.

Our Fascia and Soffit Cleaning service really can make a difference to the look and feel of your properties exterior and help to keep it in good condition.

The cleaning products we use are specifically designed to effectively and thoroughly clean exterior surfaces.

Call Jason of J & S Homeworks on 01953 458087 or 07747 847606 for a free no obligation quote.

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www.derehamonline.co.uk

WELCOME TO

DEREHAM Churchills Christmas Lights Event Musical Evening Sunday 28th November, 1pm – 5.30pm

Churchills Club in Dereham hosted a musical evening last month.

It was a fantastic opening night and we plan to hold this event regularly on every first Saturday of the month 8. 0pm onwards.

We had a trio attend who form part of a band called Magic Folk, (www.magicfolk.co.uk).

They had a lovely sound and between them played keyboard, bass, guitar, fiddle and flute. We had another local trio with a female singer and many singer/guitarists, solo singer and a duo called Catch the Fire

18 Dispatch November 010

Join the town for the switching on of the Christmas Lights this year. Join us for live entertainment, fair rides, charity stalls and a Christmas craft fair upstairs in the Assembly Rooms.

using Bodhran (Irish drum), percussion and wind instruments.

The next meeting will be on Saturday 6th November 010. Churchills Club is up a flight of steps in between a ticket selling office and a Kebab shop nearly opposite The Memorial Stone. There is a huge free car park nearby, near The Cherry Tree pub.

All kinds of music are welcome and we need an audience too.

Please contact Simon for details 01362 696914.

You can also visit Santa in Barclays Bank from pm.

The lights will be switched on at . 0pm.

Fun for all the family!

For more information please contact the Town Council on tel: 01362 693821 or EmaiI: generalenquiries@ derehamtowncouncil.org

The Equality Act 2010 Changes The Equality Act 010 replaces nine major pieces of discrimination legislation and other ancillary measures that have been introduced over the last forty years to protect people from unfairness and discrimination on grounds of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex

and sexual orientation. These are now called ‘protected characteristics’.

The Act extends some protections to characteristics that were not previously covered and also strengthens some aspects of equality law.

The core provisions of the Act come into force on 1 October 2010.

News from across your region

Well Done Hannah Hannah Lane, daughter of Peter a partner in the firm accomplished a sponsored mountain climb this summer and W F Smith were delighted to help with that sponsorship. With a group of young adults, and in aid of the charity Childreach International they climbed Mount Kilimanjaro raising, between them, a sum of £48,000.

Here is Hannah’s story.

“I climbed Mount Kilimanjaro this summer in aid of the charity Childreach International. I would like to thank everyone for the help I received in reaching my sponsorship goal. I managed to raise £2,400 for the charity. Before we climbed the mountain we were given the chance to visit one of the villages that Childreach International works with. It was such an amazing experience.”

Mount Kilimanjaro is the highest mountain on the African continent and also the highest free standing mountain in the world. From the snow capped summit, Uhuru Peak, you look down on the dramatic views of the Serengeti. Huge permanent glaciers flow from the summit forming breath taking ice formations.

Mount Kilimanjaro is situated in North Eastern Tanzania on the border of Tanzania and Kenya.

“The charity works very closely with the local community to develop sustainable projects which will not only be of benefit now but also for years to come. We visited a carpentry and needle craft school which Childreach International funded to help children gain practical skills which they can use later in life.”

“The climb to the summit took 6 days and of the group of twenty, nineteen of us reached the summit. Along the ascent there were a couple of cliffs which were pretty terrifying (especially for someone

who is not keen on heights). I positioned myself between two of the biggest guys who together with the guides were able to help me make my way up.”

“The last section reaching the summit was the most challenging. We had to be up at midnight and trek the last 1000m in the dark. It was absolutely freezing since the temperature at that altitude can drop to -26 Celsius. However we made great timing and it only took us 7 hours to reach the summit. We were rewarded with the most wonderful sunrise right on top of Kilimanjaro.”

“All around me as far as I could see were banks of clouds and rising through them was the sun. It was a fantastic sight, though to tell the truth, the mind numbing coldness, the bone aching tiredness and the desperate effort to reach the top took the edge away from the majestic view which was beautiful yet terrifying at the same time. We had been promised a cup of tea when we reached Stella Point, but we had made such good progress that

we had overtaken the porter carrying the tea. It was one of the most challenging and difficult things I have had to do so far, yet at that moment I just longed for my ‘cuppa’.”

“Although we had climbed to the summit we had a further hour’s walk to reach the official highest peak Uhuru. Standing on that top almost enveloped in those huge clouds made me realise how high we were, and it brought it into perspective when on the flight home I could see the peak of Kilimanjaro as we flew over and a few days previously I had been standing on that top.

Next venture the Himalayas...”

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www.wattononline.co.uk

WELCOME TO

WATTON

Paul Is The Natural Winner Paul Giverin from Thetford has been declared the overall winner of the 2010 Breckland Photography Competition, and winner of the ‘Nature in Breckland’ category. Paul, who also triumphed in the 2008 competition, was awarded a £100 voucher for the Norfolk Camera Centre in Dereham.

‘Creative Breckland’ category, Ken Clegg from Watton was named the winner in the ‘Architecture in Breckland’ category and Rosa Furneaux, an 18 year old from Dereham, was top in the ‘Active Breckland’ category. Individual category winners each received a Camera Centre voucher for £50.

Above: (L-R) Judges Simon Edwards and Vicki Nunn with Paul Giverin Judges Simon Edwards, Vicki Nunn and Graham Corney, all professional photographers, decided that Paul’s haunting picture which was captured early one autumn morning at Gooderstone Water Gardens was the clear overall winner across all four categories. Jan Vlcek from Thetford triumphed in the

Adrian Stasiak, Breckland Council Executive Member for Communities and Benefits said he was impressed with the standard of the submissions: “With so many talented entries this year, it was a difficult choice for the judges. Not everyone can be a winner, but no-one’s efforts will be wasted as all the photographs will all form part of a touring exhibition”.

Above: Paul’s picture - taken at Gooderstone Water Gardens Photography is something of a passion for Paul and the Breckland competition is an annual fixture on his calendar. He said: “I always look forward to a new challenge for the Breckland competition each year.

This photo was taken in the morning

when the sun had just broken through.

I photograph at Gooderstone Water Gardens quite often. I even dashed up there one Sunday last December after a heavy snowfall – needless to say I was the only person there!”

Christmas Craft Fair The latest very successful Craft Fair is being held on Saturday 27th November between 10am – 3.00pm at The Queens Hall, Watton.

Admission is free.

The Wayland Partnership is delighted to offer you a celebration of local crafts including knitwear, jewellery, pictures, children’s clothes, silk flowers, wood-turned items, fused glass plaques, embroidered items, original painted prints, handmade cushions and much more.

The aim is to promote the handmade work of talented individuals and provide them with a venue where they can exhibit and sell their work directly to the public. We also want to provide the public with an opportunity to purchase quality handmade crafts and allow them to speak with the people who make them.

Wayland Partnership carefully select exhibitors to ensure that the standards of crafts are kept high and that there is a varied range of crafts showcased at each event. If you are looking for something different and if quality and affordability are important to you, you will find what you are looking for at a Wayland Partnership Craft Fair.

Refreshments will be available.

0 Dispatch November 010

News from across your region

M-Valeting M-Valeting Ltd which was set up in February 2004 continues to grow within the mobile valeting industry, with our aim still being to provide a completely reliable and consistent valeting service to both the Public Sector and the Trade Industry.

We are a local family run company, employing local people and looking after the valeting needs and demands of Norfolk and other East Anglian Counties.

We have two departments to the business, the first being our Mobile Valeting Vans, these vans are fully equipped to valet a vehicle just about anywhere so if you can’t come to us then let us come to you at work, home or wherever is best. We pride ourselves in keeping to our convenient appointment times and aim for a service which never lets you down. It all starts with one phone-call to discuss your requirements and arrange your valet-time. The second department are our dealership based valeters, we currently run valeting departments for particular BMW, Mini, Mercedes and Ford main dealers within Norfolk and Lincolnshire.

All of our employees are trained to the highest standard in the procedures and methods that provide an excellent

valeting service, we are proud to say we are not one of those companies that cut corners. We will not stop until we’re 100% happy with the service we have provided for you.

There is a huge sense of satisfaction valeting a vehicle to a professional level and to see the look on our customer’s faces when we have finished, makes us feel as though we have one of the best jobs in the world!

For more information visit our website www.m-valeting.co.uk or call us on 01953 884758 or 07788 930905.

Police Encourages Residents To be extra vigilant following rural thefts.

There have been 1 incidents of countryside crime in the last few weeks in the vicinity of Swaffham, Watton and Dereham. Offender(s) have been targeting isolated areas. Items that were taken include trailers, vehicles, cable and scrap metal.

• Always lock doors and close windows when you go out, even if you’ll only be out for a short-time.

Local Inspector Paul Wheatley said: “We are urging people who live and work in rural areas to tighten up their security measures especially as the nights are now getting darker.

• Mark your belongings with a property marking product.

“Local people are being encouraged to report suspicious activity to the police, including car or van registration numbers and distinctive vehicle features, which will help us identify suspects.”

Officers will continue to conduct high visibility patrols in remote locations to reassure the community and catch thieves.

• Move valuable items in your garden, farm or shed to a secure location where possible.

• Home Watch and other ‘watch’ schemes are excellent ways for communities to help reduce burglaries.

For more information contact your local Safer Neighbourhood Team on 08 5 56 567.

Report suspicious vehicles or any person acting suspiciously to the police, in an emergency call 999 or in a non-emergency call 0845 456 4567.

Police are offering the following advice to rural communities:

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Christmas is Coming!

Redwings Blind Boo...

Stars on Christmas card.

Boo, a gentle giant of a horse whose story shocked the equine world and the public at large in March 009 when he was was left blind by heartless thugs is now starring on a Christmas Card to raise money for the charity that saved him. The brave Clydesdale – who now lives happily at Redwings Horse Sanctuary’s headquarters near Norwich – is being celebrated by his charity carers for his braveness in adapting to his sightless world.

advised to put him to sleep, as at 16.1hh the heavy horse was potentially difficult and dangerous to care for. They had heard of Redwings’ expertise in this area and approached the Sanctuary for their help.

After careful consideration, Redwings agreed to take him in as they could offer Boo all the specialist care and veterinary attention he might need. The charity is already home to 5 other visually impaired horses.

Boo, already blind in one eye from cancer, was shot in his good eye by unknown attackers in a premeditated mindless act of violence whilst he was turned out at his home in Surrey. The pellet was so far embedded in the back of his eye it was likely that the shotgun’s barrel was held up against his eye. Boo’s owner was faced with a difficult decision and was even

Boo’s friend Oliver (who also features on the card) has unobtrusive bells in his mane so Boo can hear where he is. Every day, Boo’s feed is put in the same place and wind chimes act as a compass for where the water trough is. Boo’s paddock is next to the charity’s administration building so the staff can cast an eye over Boo regularly.

Dispatch November 010

“Even though Boo lives at our headquarters and not a Visitor Centre he has built up a fan base,” explains Communications Manager Nicola Markwell. “We took a lovely photo of him munching hay last year which we’ve decided to turn into a Christmas card as he looks so at peace. Despite the pain he has been through and his lack of sight he

remains calm and friendly. His unwavering trust in humans is very touching.”

‘Boo and Friend’ is available as a pack of 10 Christmas cards for £ .99.

To order please visit www.redwings.co.uk or call 01508 481010.

www.dispatch-magazine.co.uk

Christmas is Coming!

The Robert Kett Pub

Chez Denis

Debby and Charlotte Casey a mother and daughter partnership, took over the tenancy in March this year after many years of being staff of the Robert Kett, with our vision being to make this a good friendly community pub again.

Denis Rosembert regularly performs to a packed house serving a selection of French Caribbean and Cajun dishes to his clients at Chez Denis Restaurant in Easton Norwich.

The Robert Kett offers food six days a week and although the kitchen is closed on Mondays, invariably Debby ends up cooking if diners come in.

The pub is split up into four areas, a more formal raised dining area which we also use for functions, another casual dining & seating area, the middle section where our customers sit & chat plus the sports and gaming area at the far end which includes our pool table, dart board, gaming machines and big screen.

We are starting to attract new customers here at the Kett, plus our regulars are hugely supportive and loyal, but we would like to see more of the people of

Dispatch November 010

Wymondham giving us a visit.

By listening to feedback from our custom we have now purchased a carvery, which will be with us in weeks, we will be offering the carvery on Sundays. All of our vegetables & salad are fresh from a local farm shop, our meat is locally sourced and where possible we offer home cooked food at reasonable prices. Our Christmas menu is now available & it’s worth coming in to see our events board.

We are due a refurb sometime shortly & would like to think we can make this a great community pub again, welcoming everyone as we are here for the long term.

With dishes like Red Snapper Creole, Jerk Pork, soft shelled Crabs, Pepper pot soup, rice and peas and many more mouth watering dishes. My love for cooking started in St Lucia, I learnt how to cook from my Grand Mother like most West Indian Kids, and the way she cooked stood me in good stead for my future in catering.

I came to Norwich sport Village in 1989 as the Head Chef, I stayed there for Years then opened my first Restaurant in Orford Yard in Norwich City centre in 199 , the restaurant was very popular, and we had to move because the list ran out. We moved to Easton in 1997, we have a guest House attached the Restaurant.

I first came to England in 1969, and lived in London where I went to school for years. I did not like the weather very much; it was too cold for me. I went back to St Lucia to start my carrier as an apprentice Chef at the Holiday Inn St Lucia. I was transferred the London in 1975 to work at the Swiss Cottage Holiday Inn, I stayed there for 9 Months then went to the Tower Hotel.

We welcome you to try our French Caribbean dishes in a warm friendly atmosphere with St Lucian hospitality.

Please visit our website, the full menu and Sunday menus are there for you to select. www.chezdenis.co.uk Email: denisr@hotmail.co.uk Tel: 01603 880966 Mob: 07771 537808

News from across your region

The Green Dragon The Green Dragon’s Pre-Christmas menu will be available from the 1st until 23rd December and will be pre-booking only.

Below is the menu available. If you would like a copy of the menu sent out to you please contact us.

Our Christmas Day menu is also available at £ 5 per person, please contact us for a pre-order form and a menu and we will get it out to you.

Tempura Plaice – Served with Lime & Chilli Mayonnaise.

Broccoli & Goats Cheese Parcels – Served with homemade Tomato Chutney.

Venison Pâté – Served with Granary Toast.

Christmas Menu

Char-grilled Fillet of Beef – Served with Lyonnaise Potatoes, fine beans and a Whiskey & Wild Mushroom Sauce.

Loin of Cod, baked with Smoked Pancetta, Thyme, Cherry Tomatoes and Lemon Butter – Served with Roasted New Potatoes.

Main Course 3 Courses - £19.95 – 2 Courses £16.95 Starter Indian Spiced Parsnip Soup – Served with Linseed & Poppy Seed Bread.

Belly of Pork, Slow Roasted with Black Treacle – Served on an Apple & Dijon mash and Fresh Vegetables.

Traditional Crown of Turkey – Served with Seasonal Trimmings.

It’s That Time Of Year Again...

The dreaded season of Christmas shopping is here again; just as we are recovering from last year’s.

Crisp Yorkshire Pudding with a rich Shepherdess Quorn Filling – Served with Roast Potatoes, Sage & Onion Stuffing and Fresh Vegetables.

Pudding Luxury Christmas Pudding – with Brandy Custard Homemade Apple & Berry Ginger Crumble – Served with Chantilly cream.

Chocolate Marquis Lemon Tart

The thought of travelling into Norwich, stuck in crowds of late night shoppers for many brings stress and added tension which can be avoided.

As Dispatch shows, there are many great retailers perfect for Christmas gifts, food and home wares more local to home, providing a much less stressful lead up to Christmas.

Of course there is the ever increasing trend of internet shopping, but for some, the high street shopping experience is all part of the fun – especially when it is supporting local businesses.

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BUSINESS & THE WEB Hosting Security Spider Solutions Transfers 200 Customer Websites To Norwich IT Specialists One of Norfolk’s most progressive, dynamic and fastest growing web development companies; Spider Solutions Ltd, located in Attleborough, have moved their entire client website storage business, to more secure and reliable servers at Digital Network Solutions in Norwich.

said Spider Solutions Managing Director, Jonathan Horswell. “The fact is, the computer service company we previously used, were not prepared to guarantee our clients websites were adequately protected from the increased risk, so we moved to significantly enhanced facilities at Digital Network Solutions in Norwich.”

With big name clients like Breckland District Council, Banham Poultry, Thetford Healthy Town (part of the NHS), and P1 Motorsport, the move is aimed at ensuring the computer services their clients receive are very much less vulnerable to malicious hackers, computer viruses and cyber attacks.

Along with the more than 00 individual customer websites, Spider Solutions Ltd have also transferred their data backup, server monitoring and IT support requirements from their previous computer service company, to more advanced secure facilities at Digital Network Solutions, in Old Catton, Norwich.

“We’ve seen an increase in attempted cyber attacks on some of our clients websites, and the risk was growing.”

6 Dispatch November 010

“Our clients quite rightly expect us to do our utmost to protect the security

and integrity of their websites.” said Mr Horswell, “We chose to move our entire IT support requirements and data backup, to Digital Network Solutions because they are the local specialists, and they could provide the security we needed.”

Tom Leaney, owner of DNS, welcomed Spider Solutions to their growing list of customers. “Spider Solutions requested increased security for their customer’s websites than previously, as well as data backup and IT support, and we are delighted to have been chosen by another fast growing, progressive and web savvy local company.”

The move to Digital Network Solutions from less secure facilities, which is worth nearly £50,000 a year, is a clear sign that Spider Solutions Ltd are committed to ensuring their web development

customers get the very best IT and secure hosting facilities available in the Norwich area.

For Further Information Contact: Jonathan Horswell Spider Solutions Ltd Queens House, Queens Square Attleborough, Norfolk, NR17 AE. T: 01953 456789 E: jonathan@SpiderSolutions.co.uk Tom Leaney Digital Network Solutions The Grange, 6 , Spixworth Road Old Catton, Norwich, Norfolk, NR6 7NF. T: 01603 778255 E: contact@dignetsol.co.uk

News from across your region

Dispatch Magazine Is Wherever You Are! As well as being able to read Dispatch Magazine in the traditional way; Sat on the sofa, TV on in the back round, cat on your lap, cup of tea in one hand and Dispatch Magazine in the other, we are very pleased to bring Dispatch to you via the internet.

We have of course had a website for many years, but only recently have we added the magazine as a ‘Flip Book’ enabling you to read Dispatch on screen, anywhere in the World.

We are not suggesting that whilst you are on holiday you’ll be desperate to find out what’s going on back home, but it will enable you to have access to the magazine when your printed version is not readily available. It may be that you’re sitting in your office, and suddenly remember you have been tasked with sorting that leaky tap; a quick flick through Dispatch online, enables you to find your local plumber, and you are seen as the hero when you return home.

It also means you have full access to all Dispatch publications we produce on a monthly basis, and via www.DispatchMagazine.co.uk you will be able to read all three issues covering; Diss & Attleborough, Wymondham, Dereham & Watton and Thetford. We also plan to keep back issues online, ensuring past stories and information is readily available.

It’s even better news for our loyal advertisers, as this now opens the door to a far greater readership, which gives a massive increase in exposure for your business. As well as ,500 copies printed and delivered each month, which gives us a readership of 106, 50, we have now given every resident in every town and every village in East Anglia (and beyond) the opportunity to enjoy Dispatch and to find local businesses.

Dispatch will, without doubt, continue to be published, printed and delivered through your door on a monthly basis, however, we hope that by having Dispatch online will enabled more readers to enjoy Dispatch Magazine wherever you are.

For advertising information call the Dispatch team on: 01953 456789.

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www.dispatch-magazine.co.uk

CARING FOR THE ELDERLY NBR Scooter Brokers

Woodgate Park

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

Why I chose Woodgate Park in Swanton Morley

Their main objective is to provide impartial advice together with a friendly and efficient service!!

They offer the service of a free, no obligation, home demonstration for all of their products to ensure they are suitable for your needs.

Whilst their core business is the supply of new mobility scooters, they also have a selection of pre-owned scooters as they offer a part exchange service.

In addition to mobility scooters, they can also supply the following: • Stairlifts • Powered wheelchairs • Powerchairs • Rise & recline armchairs

8 Dispatch November 010

• • • •

Adjustable beds Bathlifts & wheel walkers Attendant and self propelled wheelchairs

Apart from selling, they also offer a hire service, together with repairs, servicing and insurance work.

NBR scooter brokers are accredited with Norfolk trusted traders which is organised by Norfolk County Council.

“I chose to move to Woodgate Park despite being active, independent and still able to drive my own car.

Nobody wants to feel that they are getting old or less able, however, following a recent health scare I realised that circumstances can change very quickly and when you least expect. This left me feeling very vulnerable and I feared that I may lose control and have to rely on friends/relatives or even strangers to make important decisions about my future.

Most of all I wanted to avoid admission into a Care Home which usually is the only option, and the most expensive, for many people. I wanted to be able to stay in my own home, feel safe and secure but be reassured that I could rely on trained staff when I needed them.

Woodgate Park ticked all the boxes for me. As a bonus I have made new friends and enjoy the social activities that take place in the Communal Hall. I even have my own garden to continue with the gardening that I really enjoy! I have been recommending Woodgate Park to all of my friends!”

Gwyneth, Retired Pharmacist With Swanton Morley Surgery and Lincoln House Care Home in close proximity, Woodgate Park will truly give peace of mind to the future of its Residents.

Allowing them time to concentrate on enjoying their retirement. Visit the stunning Show Home now.

For more information or to make an appointment call: 01362 620002 or visit www.castlemeadowhomes.co.uk

Brooklyn House Brooklyn House is just one of Caring Homes’ highly acclaimed modern purpose-built care homes.

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

The majority of the rooms have en-suite facilities and all of them have a ‘nurse call’ system and television point. Each en-suite has a shower/wet room which is ideal for people with mobility issues and there are assisted baths throughout the building so everyone can enjoy a choice of bath or shower.

Specifically designed to care for elderly residents, Brooklyn House is equipped with every modern facility to ensure high standards of comfort. The landscaped gardens and patio areas are an additional venue for outdoor activities, such as sensory therapy, and are a calm and beautiful place just to relax in.

Brooklyn House has a new sun room which enhances the communal accommodation and gives the residents an additional choice for somewhere to spend the day.

The home’s central position means it is ideally suited for local amenities and public transport links.

We pride ourselves on our ability to provide superior palliative care, offering 24-hour care to residents with serious illnesses to relieve their suffering and improve their quality of life, giving comfort to them and their families. Every resident is given a comprehensive, individual care plan, whether they are staying for a period of convalescence or are permanent residents.

Our dedicated multi-disciplinary team is on call 24-hours a day and pride themselves on the high-quality care they offer. Our key focus is to provide a safe, homely and supported environment based on a positive, person-centred approach.

We place a high emphasis on dining at Brooklyn House, serving traditional cooking and offering a varied choice at every meal. Our fully qualified chef carefully plans the menus to make sure all the meals are nutritionally balanced.

We are very happy to cater for special diets and individual preferences and, as well as breakfast, lunch and supper, hot and cold drinks and a range of snacks are available throughout the day.

Brooklyn House’s dedicated Activities Co-ordinator ensures there is always something going on so residents can enjoy a full and interesting lifestyle and continue with their hobbies. Our active residents’ and relatives’ committee plays a key part in helping to develop new ideas and suggestions as to how Brooklyn House is run and the type of services available. Residents can also take advantage of the home’s close links to various local groups.

For more information, to request a brochure or to arrange a visit, please contact Brooklyn House on 0808 166 1347 or visit the website at www.caringhomes.org

part of the caring homes group

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HEALTH, BEAUTY & WELLBEING Introducing Parisa...

Want to look and feel younger, fresher, rejuvenated for Christmas and the New Year?...

Known as Dr Ghanbari to her patients, Parisa decided to branch out from Primary Care and offer her services in facial rejuvenation techniques.

good about themselves – so many of my patients would say to me ‘Growing Old is a terrible thing!’ – well, here is a way to slow it down!...

Offering clients tailor made treatments to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles using Botox injections and semi-permanent dermal fillers containing hyaluronic acid – we catch up with her to find out more...

How do the wrinkle reducing injections work?

I offer treatments to reduce the appearance of wrinkles using Botulinum Toxin injections – this is a chemical used frequently in medicine to effectively and safely treat a variety of conditions from cerebral palsy muscle spasticity to unstable bladders! It is particularly effective at paralysing certain facial muscles thus reducing the development of wrinkles especially in the forehead and crow’s feet area of the face. Botox injections take around two weeks to take effect and the results last for around three months.

What made you go into private practice offering facial rejuvenation techniques?

I work as a General Practitioner in a busy Norfolk surgery and no two days are the same – I see a variety of medical problems and get to meet people from all walks of life – I love it but I felt I wanted to do that bit more to help clients feel

0 Dispatch November 010

I also use semi-permanent dermal fillers containing hyaluronic acid which is the body’s natural ‘skin plumper’ – these can be used to fill out wrinkles around the face and also to give lips a natural fuller appearance – the results of these fillers are instant and last for 6-1 months – a good investment!

If you would like to find out more and meet Dr Ghanbari for a free consultation please contact: Salon Gloss, Market Green, Wymondham, Tel: 0195 600111 Or Creations Salon, High Street, Attleborough, Tel: 0195 577

Camberwell Dental Practice Was established and has served the community since 1987.

In 009, the Practice was taken over by Mr Alek Missankov who graduated in 1997 from Johannesburg, South Africa.

Alek has worked in the UK since 1997 and has a particular interest in Endodontics (advanced root canal systems) and cosmetic dentistry including beautiful white fillings, cosmetic crowns and veneers. The practice was renovated in 009 and is served by excellent staff who will be pleased to help with any dental treatment information.

Please feel free to contact our friendly staff for an appointment on Tel: 01379 652 580.

REACH OVER

42,50IA0L

POTENT CUSTOMERS

HERE!

CALL 01953 456789 NOW!

Dispatch November 010 1

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Reach Over 42,500 Potential Customers Low cost display advertising to meet the smallest budget.

Reach over ,500 homes and businesses in the Diss, Attleborough, Wymondham, Dereham, Watton and Thetford areas.

From a single advert in one Dispatch Magazine, to a run of , 6 or 1 months in one or all three Dispatch Magazines.

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

Dispatch November 010

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

Reach Over 42,500 Potential Customers Low cost display advertising to meet the smallest budget.

Reach over ,500 homes and businesses in the Diss, Attleborough, Wymondham, Dereham, Watton and Thetford areas.

From a single advert in one Dispatch Magazine, to a run of , 6 or 1 months in one or all three 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 November 010

www.dispatch-magazine.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 ,500 homes and businesses in the Diss, Attleborough, Wymondham, Dereham, Watton and Thetford areas.

From a single advert in one Dispatch Magazine, to a run of , 6 or 1 months in one or all three Dispatch Magazines.

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

Dispatch November 010

News from across your region

How To Check Tyre Pressures Correctly

Car Fraud When considering car fraud, did you know about a third of stolen cars are never recovered and some end up being sold to an unsuspecting buyer.

Safety First 1. Pressures should be checked at least once a month or before a long journey.

forgetting to check the spare tyre as well.

2. Pressures should be checked against the vehicle manufacturer’s recommended level. This can be found in the vehicle handbook and on a plate which is often located inside the fuel filler flap or on the driver’s door sill.

7. While checking pressures, give the rest of the tyre a visual inspection.

Remove any stones and other objects embedded in the tread. Look out for any bulges, lumps or cuts.

3. Check the pressure when tyres are cold (i.e. when you have travelled less than two miles).

8. If you are unsure on any aspect of tyre pressure or tyre condition take your vehicle to an approved fitting centre and speak to the experts.

In addition, every year thousands of dangerous cars are patched up after an accident and resold. Bearing this in mind, anyone thinking about buying a used car should thoroughly check the vehicle’s history before handing over any money.

If you buy a car and it is later found to be stolen, the police have the right to take it away from you. In theory, you are entitled to demand a full refund from the person who sold you the car, but this could prove difficult. You may not be able to trace the seller and, even if you do, they may not be worth taking to court.

If the car’s previous owner still owes money on it, the question of whether you or the finance company owns the car is debatable. If you knew about the outstanding credit when you bought the car, then the car still belongs to the finance company. If you did not know, then you are the rightful owner.

When you are thinking about buying a second hand car, the golden rule is that you must always check the car’s history before you buy. If you do this you should avoid any unforeseen problems with ownership.

4. If you are carrying a full load of passengers or luggage or will be towing a trailer or caravan, tyre pressures should be increased in line with the vehicle manufacturer’s recommendations. Details can be found in the vehicle handbook.

5. Ensure a reliable and accurate pressure gauge is used.

6. Check the pressure in all four tyres not

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