South Norfolk edition
WINTER 2015
COMMUNITY / LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE OF THE YEAR
WMIEN AL
TWO MORE NATIONAL PUBLISHING AWARDS
A OUR AT FOR F
get added to our belt
O COSM
CRAFTY PAPER FOLDING IDEAS
for creative decorations
Supporting
Wymondham’s community lunch
Waveney Choir calling for new voices Mince pie tasting test Join in the RSPB big garden birdwatch
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CONTENTS
57
WINTER 2015
Out & About
45 Swimming in the diet pool
8
48 WIN a meal for four at Cosmo
Good news from our region
14 Village People becomes festive decorations
51 We review the new Vauxhall Astra
17 Snow White comes to town
55 History series continues at the seaside
18 Christmas dinner for the community 21 Toxins around the Christmas tree
53 The Waveney Choir
57 WIN tickets to Soul Legends 59 Fascinating local stories
23 Collecting antique metalware 24 Check out our regional book reviews
14
29 A unique art project
63 Great recommendations for local businesses
Health & Beauty 71 Health Q&A: A pressing problem
31 A new kind of Christmas magic in Norwich
75 Refreshing Waters talks to local businessman
32 Village notice board
76 Best Christmas cookie recipe ever!
Home & Garden
Shopping
38 Everything chills but the gardener
80 Winter warming fashion
41 Christmas greetings from Ken 42 Homeware; entertaining this party season
60 The British Federation of Women Graduates
82 Mince pie tasting test
82
Jobs, Money & Business 87 How to get a free credit score report 90 Help save nature with an hour and a cuppa 92 Find a local business or service in our local directory 94 Walk around Fritton Common & Boudicca’s Way
Are you looking for a particular product or service? Check out our Local Business Directory on pages 92 & 93
BE LO BUY CAL, Supp LOCAL ort lo bus c ines al commses in our unity
WWW.EYEFLOORING.CO.UK INFO@EYEFLOORING.CO.UK 6 FIND US BROAD STREET | EYE | IP23 7AF
Celebrating
We’re still on a high after winning another two national awards at the prestigious Independent Magazine Publishers annual conference last month. Pop over to our “award winning” Good News pages and read all about our success. The magazine in your hand is the best of its kind in the country and it’s independent too, which makes it all the more special. We’re always spoilt for choice when it comes to offering competition prizes so this year we have three, to make sure there’s something for everyone. Have a good read from cover to cover and get your email entries in. And don’t forget you can enter all three! Now you have your shiny new winter issue safely in your hands, dig out your old autumn copy if you are feeling crafty, and check out our clever article on paper crafting. It shows you how to make some fabulous Christmas decorations. I’m excited to be going on the paper folding course at Diss Corn Hall in December. Hopefully I’ll see some of you there! Now who doesn’t like a mince pie at this time of year? With so much choice on the supermarket shelves it’s hard to know which is the best, so we invited our Ladies who Lunch to stay at home and taste ten different pies. (It’s a hard life!) It was a fascinating experiment and you can read all about it and find the results inside. We’re continuing the experiment by asking you to take a photo of your choice of mince pie and tagging us on Instagram @vpmagazine I’d like to sign off by wishing everyone a fabulous festive time over December and do keep this magazine handy as it lasts the whole of January too. We’ll be back early February with our spring issue. Best wishes from your multi award-winning local, independent team of hard working girls (wink)!
Lily
Lily Goulder editor@village-people.info 01284 788623
WIN A meal for four at COSMO Tickets to Soul Legends and the Panto
Advertise with us! Reliably delivered by Royal Mail, reaching 50,000 homes each issue. Three editions of Village People ople provide unrivalled coverage of South Norfolk and North Suffolk, reaching more homes than ANY other local magazine. For more information, call our friendly team on 01284 788623 or send an email to office@village-people.info e@village-people.info
WINTER 2015
South Norwich edition HOMES • GARDENS • OUT & ABOUT • JOBS & MONEY HEALTH LOC COMMUNITY / LIFESTYLE
MAGAZINE OF THE YEAR
WMEIN AL A
UR AT
FOR FO
COSMO
TWO MORE NATIONAL PUBLISHING AWARDS get added to our belt
WINTER 2015
Norfolk/Suffolk border edition HOMES • GARDENS • OUT & ABOUT • JOBS & MONEY HEALTH LOC COMMUNITY /
LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE OF THE
WMEIN AL A
YEAR
TWO MORE NATIONAL PUBLISHING AWARDS
UR AT FOR FO O
COSM
get added to our belt
SUPPORTING Wymondham’s community lunch
WINTER 2015
South Norfolk edition HOMES • GARDENS • OUT & ABOUT • JOBS & MONEY HEALTH LOC COMMUNITY / LIFESTYLE
MAGAZINE OF THE YEAR
WMEIN AL A
TWO MORE NATIONAL PUBLISHING AWARDS
UR AT
FOR FO
COSMO
get added to our belt
CRAFTY PAPER FOLDING IDEAS
for creative decorations
Supporting
Crafty paper folding ideas
Wymondham’s community lunch Waveney Choir calling for new voices Mince pie tasting test Join in the RSPB big garden birdwatch
Crafty paper folding ideas for creative decorations
Waveney Choir calling for new voices Mince pie tasting test Join in the RSPB big garden birdwatch
Follow us on Twitter and Instragram @vpmagazine
NEX DEADLT INE
Early Sprin g (F
eb/Marcch ) 11th Jan uary
Supporting
Wymondham’s community lunch
Waveney Choir calling for new voices Mince pie tasting test Join in the RSPB big garden birdwatch
issuu.com/villagepeoplemag Read all our magazines
Visit our website to find out more www.village-people.info
7
Good News FROM OUR REGION VILLAGE PEOPLE MAGAZINE SCOOPS ANOTHER TWO NATIONAL PUBLISHING AWARDS Following a highly-successful evening at the 2014 Magazine Publishers Awards – taking home not one, not two, but three trophies – Village People Magazine has added a further two awards to its pretty little belt in 2015. The wins have bumped the magazine’s total number of national awards up to five, with Village People being highly commended for Best News Editorial and Best Social Media at this year’s event.
The awards ceremony took place in Coventry, during the Association of Independent Magazine Publishers annual conference, and was attended by a host of respected professionals from the UK’s magazine industry.
8
Having previously been awarded the prestigious title Community/ Lifestyle Magazine of the Year, as well as winning Best Magazine Design and Best Front Cover, Village People is already recognised as the best in the country among hundreds of worthy contenders. Now with even more accolades to its name, publishers throughout the UK turn to Village People as a model magazine. “We couldn’t be more delighted to have won national recognition two more times this year,” said editor Lily Goulder. “Five awards certainly proves Village People is wonderful in so many ways as we continue living up to our name of best community magazine in the country.”
ards The Magazine Publishers Awards are awarded by an independent panel of judges, who recognise Village People’s social media presence and Good News pages as leading examples within the independent publishing industry.
LOOKING FOR A TRULY UNIQUE CHRISTMAS GIFT? A year’s sponsorship of a rescue horse or donkey from Redwings Horse Sanctuary makes a perfect gift for friends, family and animal lovers alike – and costs just £12.50. Your loved one will receive a certificate, twice yearly updates straight from the horse’s mouth and an invitation to their new best friend’s birthday party. Best of all, every penny goes directly towards the care of your chosen horse or
donkey, so they too can have a happy Christmas. To sponsor a Redwings horse or donkey this Christmas, visit www.redwings.org.uk or call 01508 481000.
CELEBRATE CHRISTMAS DAY WITH OTHERS
There is no need to be on you r own this Christmas.
Friends of All Hallows are ope ning Daycare, behind the hospital in Ditching ham, on Christmas Day for Christmas dinner, games and a chat. If you would like to join in with their Christmas celebrations on Dec ember 25, or know someone that would, please contact Pat on 01986 892493 . Transport arrangements can be organise d if required.
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9
LOCAL QUIZ NIGHT RAISES £600 Twelve teams took part in the third Rackhams Funeral Service Quiz night on October 16 to raise money for the Cogwheel Trust International. Held at their Waveney Chapel, the evening also included a short talk from Kevin Hammond, the founder of The Cogwheel Trust, who gave an update of the work they are doing with orphaned and disadvantaged children in Uganda. This included the opening of their first school and a recent trip to build extra facilities.
ROSEDALE REMEMBERS AT CHRISTMAS Christmas can be a very difficult time for the recently bereaved who cannot avoid “the season to be jolly”, despite missing their loved one. For anyone facing this problem, Rosedale Funeral Home has a free booklet available called A not so jolly Christmas, offering practical
advice on reducing pressure, re-evaluating traditions, re-defining expectations and re-living the memories.
The evening raised a total of £600 towards the work. For more information about the trust, visit www.cogwheeltrustinternational.org.uk
Rosedale will also be holding special Services of Remembrance throughout December at Public Hall, Beccles, on the 6th; St Mary’s Church, Diss, on the 13th; and Wymondham Abbey on 19th.
For more information, visit www.rosedalefuneralhome.co.uk
Biggest wedding show on the Norfolk Coast!
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10
ALL THAT GLITTERS MAY NOT BE GOLD
EXPEDITION EDITION TO ECUADOR ECU A group of students from Wymondham High Academy will be joining an expedition to Ecuador and The Galápagos Islands for a month of personal development and charitable project work in 2017. Students Keri Kennett and Emily Bristow have started fundraising for the expedition, where they hope
to improve the educational standards of rural Ecuadorean communities and help with reforestation. For fun and fundraising, the girls have planned a “Quiz and Chilli night” at Spooner Row Village Hall on Saturday 28 November and would like Village People readers to join them. See the Village Notice Board for more info.
Check out Emily’s Expedition to Ecuador 2017 Facebook: www.facebook.com/Emexec?ref=aymt_homepage_panel
The Heart Research UK Treasure Your Heart jewellery appeal has been going from strength to strength. Churches, WI, ladies groups, businesses and members of the community have all been clearing out their jewellery boxes to donate to the appeal which has raised thousands for the medical research charity. It’s so simple. Just order your envelopes, fill them with your unwanted jewellery and either post back via the FREEEPOST address or hand in at your local Beaverbrooks jewellers in Chapelfield, Norwich. To order a Treasure Your Heart envelope call 0113 234 7474 or fill in the form on the website www.heartresearch.org.uk
IF YOU HAVE SOME GOOD NEWS TO SHARE EMAIL US AT editor@village-people.info
Derek Hardaker
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Village People becomes festive decorations
Repurposing what’s too good to throw away
C
rafting has always been a big part of my life. Coming from a “make-do-andmend” family, I began sewing at an early age. My parents have always been an inspiration and we’ve tried many different crafts, from corn dollies to goose egg jewel boxes, but paper craft is the one that really has me hooked.
Paper and card can be used in so many different ways, not just for greetings cards, making gift boxes and decorations. You can co-ordinate everything for a stylish look and using recycling from around the house makes crafting less expensive than you might think. You’ll be surprised at what you can achieve! Many of the paper crafts I try are great for all the family. Children love to make things and if all you need is an old magazine, some glue and a pot of glitter it’s not going to break the bank to keep them occupied for an hour or two. I only use pre-loved books and magazines, rescued from charity shops and the recycle bin for crafting. Here are a few things made from the Village People magazine once the new issue arrives (and I’ve removed any recipes I wish to keep)! Paper folding courses will be available at Diss Corn Hall in the new year. www.disscornhall.co.uk
14
Rushanne from Stuston, just outside Diss
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Sat 5th Dec
Westfield Shopping – Stratford
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Cost
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*Thursford Christmas Spectacular
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Sun 3rd Jan
Warner Bros. Harry Potter Studio Tour
9am
£55 (child £47)
Sat 9th Jan
*Springfields Factory Outlet/ Baytree Nursery - Spalding
9am
£16
Wed 20th Jan
National TV Awards – O2
2pm
£60
Wed 27th Jan
Les Misérables
8am
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Sat 6th Feb
London Day Out Coach Only – Central London
8am
£23
Sun 14th Feb
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Sat 20th Feb
Warwick Castle
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DEC/JAN
BOX OFFICE: (01603) 63 00 00 Tues 1 – Sat 5 Dec AN INSPECTOR CALLS Multi-award-winning production of classic thriller £7 - £24 Sun 6 Dec RAF IN CONCERT RAF bands mark the 75th anniversary of the Battle of Britain £8 - £25 Tues 15 Dec 2015 – Sun 17 Jan 2016 SNOW WHITE Jennifer Ellison stars in traditional family pantomime £7 - £21.50
16
Mon 11 Jan BEYOND THE BARRICADE Songs from great musicals £7 - £21 Tues 19 – Sat 23 Jan CIRQUE DE GLACE Ice dance meets amazing circus skills £8 - £32.50 Mon 25 – Sat 30 Jan SUNSET BOULEVARD Norfolk & Norwich Operatic Society with amateur production of Lloyd Webber musical £7 - £21.50 Sun 31 Jan BRENDAN COLE Strictly star with music and dance show £8 - £36.50
Book online: www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk T H E AT R E ST R E E T, N O RW I C H N R 2 1 R L
Snow White
It is 21 years since Jennifer Ellison joined the cast of Brookside as Emily Shadwick. In the year that her career comes of age, she has two new TV shows and is preparing to play the evil Queen Evilynne at Norwich Theatre Royal.
J
uggling a busy professional life with a busy family life, you would forgive Jennifer Ellison for feeling a little bit stressed as she practices for her panto role this Christmas. But there is not a hint of pressure nor worry as the performer prepares to be a sassy and stylish wicked Queen Evilynne in Snow White. “I am really excited,” she exclaims. “I have never played Norwich before. I have played the Wicked Queen in panto before and I absolutely love it. The two together will make for a great Christmas.”
that instant response from the audience is fantastic. I feel very privileged and very grateful,” she said.
As a child, dancing was Jennifer’s passion and she became a world champion in both ballet and modern dance at a very young age. At the age of 12, she managed to get an audition for the TV soap Brookside, which was filmed in her native Merseyside.
In Snow White,, Jennifer will be starring opposite the likes of Richard Gauntlett, back for his 15th year in the city, and locally-based comic favourite Ben Langley.
“It was incredible to grow up on screen, be part of a family unit and to have it filmed just around the corner from me in Liverpool. It was an honour. I am where I am today and I have achieved what I have achieved, thanks to Brookside.” From there, the acting roles came in thick and fast. At the age of 20, she got the lead role of Roxie Hart in Chicago and she has also since taken on lead roles in the West End’s Legally Blonde and Singin’ In The Rain. She even appeared in the movie version of Phantom Of The Opera. “I have been very fortunate. Theatre has been my main love and passion. To have
WIN
“I just love playing the evil role,” she said. “The reaction of children when you come on stage and when Snow White bites the apple is just incredible. The kids love it!”
Snow White runs at Norwich Theatre Royal from December 15 to January 17 Tickets are available from the box office on 01603 630000 or book online at theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk
tickets to see Snow White at Norwich Theatre Royal
You could be in with a chance of winning a family ticket (two adults and two children) to see the panto on Wednesday 16 December at 7.30pm. Simply answer the question below: What was the name of Jennifer Ellison’s character in Brookside? a) Emily Shadwick
Send your answer, plus your name, address and daytime telephone number, to competition@village-people.info with PANTO as the subject before midnight, Thursday 10 December.
b) Sheila Grant c) Lyndsey Corkhill
Usual Village People rules apply.
17
Christmas dinner for the community Village People supports festive meal for Wymondham residents
T
his year, the town of Wymondham is treating those who live alone to a free Christmas meal. the celebration will bring together 75 residents, along with local volunteers and entertainers.
as well as being served delicious food, guests will be provided with various entertainment throughout the afternoon. the event will begin at 11.30am, with food served from 12 noon, running until 4pm.
the meal is supported by Wymondham town team, in conjunction with Waitrose, and a donation has been provided by Village People magazines towards the event.
Vivienne – 07890 599431 vclifford-jackson@s-norfolk.gov.uk
Held at the roman Catholic Church Hall on saturday 19 December, the community Christmas dinner will be an opportunity for some of the town’s more vulnerable residents to get together with others in the community and enjoy some good, festive cheer. it will be an opportunity to spoil those who, for whatever reason, may not have the good fortune of being surrounded by loved ones at Christmas. this time of year can be extremely lonely for people living on their own, so the Community dinner aims to rectify the situation for Wymondham residents.
WE NEED VOLUNTEERS! if you think you could help with setting up, clearing away, or driving guests to and/or from the event we would love to hear from you. Please contact: Fran on 01953 601179 or email franyoung@talktalk.net Also in Wymondham this Christmas... Wymondham’s traditional Christmas celebration will be held on saturday 5 December, coinciding with the separately organised Christmas tree festival in the abbey. activities (between 2pm and 7pm) include: father Christmas grotto, a candlelit procession from the abbey to the market place, live music, communal carol singing and the switching on of the Christmas lights. for regularly updated information visit www.facebook.com/WymondhamTownTeam
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To book a place, or for more information, please contact:
Mary – 07890 599438 mlatten@s-norfolk.gov.uk
Tree kindly supplied by Wymondham Garden Centre
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Tiny Tots fun classes now available for 3-4 yr olds Please call for information and brochure. Friendly, family-run business Sandy Lane, Rocklands, Attleborough NR17 1EN
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“I want to be your friend!” For an extra special gift this Christmas, why not sponsor a Redwings horse or donkey?
To adopt a horse or donkey for your friends and family this Christmas Visit www.redwings.org.uk Call 01508 481000
Toxins around the Christmas tree
V
ets always warn of the potential dangers that surround our pets at Christmas. However, each year they still see a number of animals who have accidentally been poisoned. Potential poisons are in everyone’s home at this time of year, so it is important to be aware of exactly what can be toxic if ingested by our pets. Chocolate Because of the ingredient theobromine that it contains, chocolate is toxic to cats and dogs. The concentration is higher in dark chocolate than in milk chocolate, but even a small amount can cause hyper excitability, tremors, convulsion, heart disturbances and even death. Always be careful of wrapped presents that may contain chocolate, because our furry friends have a great sense of smell!
some pets seem to have eaten a relatively large amount without any effects whilst others will ingest very little and the result has been deadly. Don’t risk it. Alcohol There was once a puppy that, in his owner’s absence, helped himself to a very large quantity of their best port. He spent several days of Christmas in the dog ward whilst being treated for alcohol poisoning. He fortunately made a 100 per cent recovery, but not all curious pets are so lucky. Antifreeze Fatal to cats, antifreeze is sweet to the taste but causes kidney failure, so vets have to treat swiftly and aggressively to try and save any cat that has consumed some. With thanks to Rachel Phillips mrcvs from Uplands Way Vets
Onions You may think you are being kind on Christmas day to give your pet a turkey dinner with all the trimmings; but onions, garlic, leeks and chives all contain sulphurs which react with the cell membranes of the red blood cells of dogs, causing the cells to explode. Cats are even more sensitive to the poisonous effects of the onion family: eating too many of these can lead to a potentially fatal anaemia. Raisins Christmas pudding must be kept out of reach of sniffing noses! Raisins, grapes, sultanas and currents cause kidney failure in dogs and potentially other animals too. It would appear that animals are very variable; ises to ing e prementre, v o M larg arden C rn, G m ode Blooms singha m , es 5 newt door to oad, Br of 201 ook to eb nex Low R e end Fac ogress! r h o t r e at bsit ith p w we our to date ow Foll eep up k
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John Ryder Removals and light Haulage is a local family business based in Wymondham, offering reliable removal services throughout the uk along with light haulage and house clearances. • Removals & stoRage • Domestic Homes oR office moves • fRee estimates & aDvice • 3.5 ton & 7.5 ton veHicles • full Packing seRvice • fully insuReD • 7 Day seRvice
Call 01953 605553 www.johnryder.co.uk
Est 1987
3 White Horse Street, Wymondham, Norfolk NR18 0BJ
22
Collecting antique metalware B
etween the 1880s and the 1920s was a time of great change, with reaction against the forces of industrialisation, leading to a time of creativity and a passion for hand-crafted metalware.
The arts and craft movement developed as a rebellion against the perceived dehumanising effects of the industrial revolution. Writers such as Thomas Carlisle and later John Ruskin had praised the medieval craftsman and mourned the loss of such skills. William Morris established Morris & Co from a collaboration of friends who jointly contributed to the creation of decorative fine arts. It was Morris who persuaded W.A.S Benson to open a metal workshop in 1880. From those beginnings he produced some of the finest brass and copper items of the period, from spirit kettles and hot water jugs, to candlesticks and light fittings. During the 1880s and 1890s, several metalwork schools and guilds began to appear, such as the Birmingham Guild and the Glasgow School. Arts and crafts were also covered by The Keswick School of Industrial Art and the Newlyn Industrial Class. It was the history and landscape of the Lake District, intertwined with the patterns and designs of earlier times, that epitomises the brass and copper of the
WMF silver plated dish Keswick School, whilst Newlyn copper very much reflects its fishing heritage: seabirds and other marine creatures. During the same period, Arthur Lasenby Liberty founded his London store. Building relationships with industrial designers, he was a driving force behind the British Art Nouveau movement in the 1890s. These designers developed items in both pewter (Tudric range) and silver (Cymric range), from candlesticks and bowls, to tea caddies and clocks. Liberty also imported items from Europe, from companies such as Orivit and Kayserzinn. Between 1895 and 1910, the German metalware firm Wurttembergische Metallwarenfabrik (WMF) dominated the production of artistic domestic metalware in Europe. They produced a huge range of products reflecting the art nouveau and secessionist styles and were one of many German companies producing decorative metalware; from the flowing forms of Kayserzinn to the brilliant designs of Orivit, Orion and Osiris. Only WMF survived, however, and they are one of the only metalware company that most people have heard of today.
OSIRIS pewter bask ba basket sket sket
Paul Howe is an experienced dealer of metalware and a regular exhibitor at the Dunston Hall Antiques Fair
Next antiques fair is Sunday 27 December at the Dunston Hall Hotel, A140 Ipswich Rd, Norwich, NR14 8PQ
www.norfolkfairs.com
07596 436260
23
Regional Reads
THIS ISSUE WE LOVE Keith Skipper’s Norfolk Scrapbook Keith Skipper
Poppyland Publishing ISBN 9781909796195 Paperback £9.95
Y From Field And Fen Mike Toms
Crow Meadow Press ISBN 9780993371707 Hardback £12 For a number of years Mike Toms has been writing the In The Countryside column in the Eastern Daily Press, as well as being author of several well-regarded natural history titles, including the Collins New Naturalist book, Owls. This attractively-produced new volume collects the best of his nature writing from those columns. Although the writers’ styles are different, there is something of a similar feel here to that of Mark Cocker’s nature writing journalism, as collected last year in Claxton. The book is self-published – a term often synonymous with “dodgy production standards”, but not in the case of this pleasing and well-produced volume.
24
et another treasure trove of Norfolk gems from a past master of humorous writing about the region. Keith Skipper is a Norfolk institution (or just possibly, as the man might say himself, he ought to be in one). Either way, his latest collection of musings on life and the county will inevitably be one of the region’s best-selling books towards the end of the year. Unbelievably, this is Keith’s 39th publication and he has been writing and talking about “the finest county of them all” since leaving school in 1962, to become a cub reporter on the Thetford & Watton Times.
Tales From The City, Volume One Edited by Mick Dennis
Tales From
ISBN 9780993238116 Paperback £10
T
here is no shortage of books about Norwich City Football Club and several new titles tend to appear every year. Many of these are histories of the club – nostalgic journeys to golden moments gone by – or take the form of quizzes and collections of trivia. This book aspires to a more serious approach to its subject. From a publisher specialising in football books comes a book of thought-provoking essays, with contributions from a number of high-profile supporters and former players, including Michael Wynn Jones, Chris Goreham, Grant Holt, Paul McVeigh and Iwan Roberts. A book that should be on the Christmas present list of serious-minded Canaries fans.
View our region from a different perspective with this fascinating selection of local titles from Chris Rushby of Jarrolds’ Book Department 100 Norfolk Churches of Village and Countryside Andrew Swift
100 Norfolk Churches of Village and Countryside
Velox Books ISBN 9780957570139 Hardback with many colour photographs £20
T
here are far more than 100 churches in Norfolk – around Andrew Swift 650, in fact – so this handsome new title doesn’t set out to be a comprehensive record of the county’s religious buildings. Instead, it focuses on a selection which the author believes to be among the county’s less well-known gems. Most of the churches featured are in rural parishes, rather than towns and cities, and all are photographed and described with care in this fascinating new book. Each selection is featured with around 15 high-quality photographs and described in about 400 words of text, building to a fascinating selection that will almost certainly point readers to places they haven’t previously discovered.
The Norfolk Colouring Book
The
Norfolk
C o l o u r i N g
B o o k
The History Press ISBN 9780750967402 Paperback £9.99
T
his year has seen the phenomenon of the rise of the adult colouring book. A host of PasT aNd PreseNT new titles are available and there is a mind-boggling choice between secret gardens, enchanted forests, tropical paradises, mandalas and the like. Now comes the Christmas stocking-filler everyone’s been waiting for: an adult colouring book featuring your favourite Norfolk buildings and landscapes! Why labour over exotic scenes when you could be colouring Norwich Castle, or vistas from the Broads? Jarrold has this new title on an exclusive basis for the first few weeks of its life – the perfect combination of local interest and calm colouring in one volume!
Black Beauty Anna Sewell
Calla Editions ISBN 9781606600825 Hardback with colour illustrations £20 Black Beauty is a true Norfolk success story: written by Great Yarmouth-born Anna Sewell at her Old Catton home, the book was published by Jarrold in Norwich and became an immediate success. It has never been out of print and is one of the most well-loved and best-selling books in the English language, with over 50 million copies sold. Jarrold will be the exclusive UK retailer of a beautiful new edition of Black Beauty, of which the company was original publisher in 1877. The new book, selling at £20, is the facsimile of an edition first published by Jarrold in 1912, containing beautiful illustrations by renowned artist Cecil Aldin. Jarrold will be the sole UK stockist of the book until the new year.
25
Out & About
on the New Buckenham
Sadly for us we are leaving The Gamekeeper in Old Buckenham and close the door for the last time on 22nd November 2015. We really want to thank our customers of the past seven and a half years for their loyal support and friendship but hope to continue seeing you all at The Inn on the Green in New Buckenham. Dawn and chef Justin are coming with us to join the Inn team so plenty of familiar faces to greet you! We have roaring log fires at the Inn and specials to tempt you out during the cold winter weather such as the new Sunday roasts menu, Wednesday nights ‘Surf ‘n’ Turf’ steak, fish and burger choices at £9.95 and our great ‘Tennerfest’ offer for January and February – 2 course lunches for only £10 Monday - Saturday! Hope to see you soon! David and Julie
Christmas Bookings now being taken See online for details
Chapel Street, New Buckenham, Norfolk, NR16 2BB
Call us 01953 860 172
www.innonthegreenfreehouse.com
Opening hours... From 1st December opening 7 days a week for food and drink. MON - SUN 12-3pm and 6-11pm (6-10pm Sun) No longer serving breakfast but are pleased to bring to The Inn the extremely popular “Gamekeeper” Sunday Lunch.
26
Out & About
, es rti w! pa No ls, k ea o m Bo as ns tm io ris rat Ch leb ce We've fabulous ales direct from the cask and welcoming log fires to bring you in from the cold (when the weather means you can't use our gorgeous beer garden). Our chef/manager Leigh's food ranges from traditional pub grub to a brilliant Daily Specials board, a regular OAP Fish & Chip Wednesday lunch, popular speciality evenings, live music and special events. Look on our website or Facebook The Queens Head, Eye, Suffolk for information about everything we do.
Cross Street, Eye, Suffolk IP23 7AB Tel : 01379 870153 www.queensheadeye.co.uk email : leigh@queensheadeye.co.uk
27
BANHAM ZOO
Out & About
A GREAT DAY OUT
Open Daily from 9:30am 01953 887771 www.banhamzoo.co.uk Kenninghall Road, Banham, Norfolk NR16 2HE Registered Charity No. 1150158
Registered Charity No. 1150158
1 CHILD FREE 28
Chat to us!
When accompanied by 2 people paying full admission price Valid until 31st December 2015 Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer or promotion or payment by Tesco Rewards. Valid for tickets purchased at the zoo on day of visit. Only one voucher per transaction. Photocopies not accepted.
Inspirational art that
packs a feminist punch T
his year the words Magna Carta have been on everyone’s lips from documentaries, official ceremonies, history trails and even school curriculums.
Catherine of Aragon also accompany the tour.
Local artist Tracy Satchwill has contributed to the 800th anniversary celebrations by creating a unique art project that captures the journey of women during the Magna Carta era. Her four-piece panel, Magna Carta Women, highlights some notable people who have made a significant contribution to the furtherment of women’s rights and freedoms.
Tracy continues creating playful and theatrical collages from her studio at Forncett St Peter, inspired by a love of period dramas and historical narratives. She has given talks and attended the official Magna Carta 800th anniversary ceremony at Runnymede Meadows, and has even discussed the artwork with Princess Royal. Her next major project will respond to women’s suffrage for the 2018 centenary celebrations.
The artwork, set in the Garden of Eden, is inspired by traditional stained glass windows – the main visual art form of the Magna Carta era – and is created by combining original photography with illustration, print and found objects. The piece features 50 remarkable men and women, including suffragette leader Emmeline Pankhurst; Laura Bates, founder of the Everyday Sexism Project, and some notable East Anglians, including prison reformer Elizabeth Fry and anchoress Julian of Norwich. There are also a few men, such as philosopher John Stuart Mill, who championed women’s rights. King John is also featured signing the Magna Carta, which forms the pathway in the garden. The project, which has been awarded Arts Council funding, tours England including Guildhall Art Gallery and Roman Amphitheatre in London. Two life-size figures of Emmeline Pankhurst and
“The social history of women is something I am passionate about, and hope my art will be a platform from which to inform and inspire the next generation,” said Tracy. Since completing her BA (Hons) in Illustration in 2010, Tracy has created numerous artworks with subjects including Agatha Christie, Kings and Queens of England, Marie Antoinette and women in history. She has exhibited in the UK, Europe and America including Somerset House, Orleans House Gallery, Old Truman Brewery, Empire State Building and Burgh Island Hotel. Magna Carta Women continues its tour until November and is supported through public funding by the National Lottery through Arts Council England and Royal Holloway University. For more information visit www.tracysatchwill.com
Exciting new Luxury Retirement Village in Norfolk
40%
NOW SOLD Book your viewing today
On-site GP Surgery | Caring Support | Landscaped Grounds | Unspoilt Views
Showroom Now Open! To view, please call to arrange an appointment.
To find out more call: 01362 620016 or visit: www.castlemeadowcare.co.uk
30
Woodgate Park Woodgate Road, Swanton Morley, Dereham, Norfolk, NR20 4NU
A new kind of Christmas magic in Norwich
W
ith a professional band and over 50 of the best singers and dancers in the region, Mixed Voice will be presenting a brand new Christmas spectacle at OPEN, Norwich, for the whole family this December. Inspired by the classic Christmas family movie Home Alone, Mixed Voice will take you on a musical journey through the Christmas songbook. You will follow Joshua, a 10-year-old boy, who discovers a magical winter wonderland in the depths of his dusty old attic – the beginning of an evening full of wonder and surprise. The Mixed Voice Christmas Show is a new kind of Christmas entertainment; surrounded by an incredibly talented cast, you will hear new and exciting arrangements of the Christmas songs you know and love, as well as a few numbers that you won’t be expecting! After five years of sell-out performances, OPEN has invited Mixed Voice to head up its festive programme of events, and Mixed Voice aims to send you home feeling full of Christmas sparkle, making this show a great start to the holidays for the whole family.
15%off
The Mixed Voice Christmas Show!
OPEN, Norwich Monday 21 and Tuesday 22 December 7.30pm Tickets £18 and 15% off with voucher code “Rudolph” before December 10 Visit www.mixedvoice.co.uk or call 01603 628319
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Village Notice Board 1st Harling Sco
ut Group
Christmas Baza ar Sat Dec 5th – 9a m
Old School Hal
-1pm
l, East Harling Looking for th at certain Christ Then why not vis mas gift ? it our man
y stalls selling ar food & other cu t, crafts, jeweller rios’ Refreshmen y, ts, two tombolas to play & carol , fun games singing on the m ain sta ge. The kids can and visit Santa in come his grotto betwee We will also be n 10-12 drawing our Ch ristmas raffle at 12:45 Bring the
whole family al ong!
!
Christmas Nativity Exhibition
St Mary’s Church Rickinghall 19th & 20th Dec Invites people to display their nativ ity shop bought or handmade; old or sets for all to see: whether designed for adults or childrnew; big or small; en we would love to see them Enquiries or to enter your crib set call Sarah Raynham 07719 973327
or Barbara Norburn 01379 898685
GISLINGHAM SILVER BAND (FOUNDED 1885)
CHRISTMAS CONCERT GISLINGHAM VILLAGE HALL
TUES 15th DEC at 7.30pm Tickets £5 (under 16 free)
01379 788411
Peter Cole General Builder & Roofing Contractor
Extensions, Garages & Garden Walls House Renovations and Maintenance Chimney & Roof Repairs All brickwork and carpentry undertaken All jobs considered 35 years experience. No VAT.
Tel: 01953 602305 Mob: 07910 744784 32
Breckland Flower club ENT CHARITY EV ort group in Wymondham)
(in aid of a dementia cafe
supp
age Hall on Held at Carleton Rode Vill n at 6.30 ope rs doo v, No h Friday 27t be Hewson will Joy Tunmore & Christine Splendour’ demonstrating ‘ Seasonal
Tea/coffee and nibbles TICKETS £7 each, 789410 01953 454528 or 01953 call k boo to
Christmas Rura Sat 28th Nov –
l Market
10.30am - 3pm Glebe Farm Ba rn, Carleton Foreho e NR9 4AP (sig nposted off the
B1108 Watton
Lots of stalls, wo nder ful selection of gifts , produce, deco rations
Road)
Entry £1 Childre n free Refreshments al l day
St Nicholas Fayre
A magical evening at Gissing Church and Old Sch ool Dec 5th 3 – 6pm Locally produced arts, cra fts & food, Santa & carol singers
Still the place for unusual gi ft ideas... RICKINGHA LL VILLAGE HALL’S CHRISTMAS CRAFT FAIR Sunday 6th D ec – 10.30am until 3.30pm Over 25 stalls , refreshments , raffle Admission on ly £1 For info call M onty on 0774 7 846605
CHRISTMAS WITH THE CATS AT VENTURE FARM CAT RESCUE 52 THUXTON ROAD, MATTISHALL 01362 8503 3PM – 11AM OPEN DAY ON SUNDAY 6TH DEC CAR PARKING AVAIL ABLE, DONATION £2 PER , ENTS LOTS OF STALLS AND GAMES, REFRESHM S BOOK & S ITEM S STMA CHRI , ENTERTAINMENT FOR SALE, TOMBOLA & RAFFLE, FEED THE CATS A CHRISTMAS TREAT
Cards for G ood
Causes Multi Chari ty Christma s Shop
Open until 18th Dec, 7 days a w eek The Forum , Norwich Selling card s for more tha plus gifts, g ift wrap, tra n 40 charities ditional ad calendars vent & lots more
fit... + Windows UPVC & Wood & Aluminium + Doors UPVC & Wood & Aluminium + Conservatories + Roofline + Secondary + Glass and Glazing!
www.gr8glass.co.uk
Contact Matt Porter
07840 486688 - 01508 218537
THE MILL CAFÉ
Hempnall 7th Dec - 11th Jan 9am to 2pm Hempnall Mill Centre, 15 2LP Mill Road, Hempnall, NR g.uk www.hempnalltrust.or
CHRISTMAS CELEBRATIONS IN DISS Sat 28th Nov 11.00am -7.00pm The St Nicholas Street Christmas Fayre From 11am to 6pm: traders, shopkeepers & cafes will hold a special Christmas Fayre right in the heart of Diss To entertain you there will be an accordionist, Morris dancing & jig dolls and a whole lot more, including an amazing Christmas raffle! Diss Town Christmas Light Switch-On Then join us for more fun, music and entertainment in Diss Market Place from 3pm with the Switch-On at 6pm by VIP guest Ben Langley, from the Norwich Theatre Royal panto Hog roast, doughnuts, mulled wine & winter warmers, candyfloss, glow sticks & Castro’s coffee plus fairground rides at the Mere’s Mouth, street entertainers, face painting, Dinsdale, and of course... Santa South Norfolk Council has confirmed that the car parks will be free ALL DAY on the 28th and the following three Saturdays leading up to Christmas!
W.P.FULCHER Civil & General Builder JCB3CX & Mini Digger Hire
REnovations & EXtEnsions PaintinG & DECoRatinG HaRD LanDsCaPinG GRoUnDWoRks FREE EstiMatEs
tel/Fax - 01953 453267 Mobile - 07774 626709
33
50s Night
January Jumb2plem
At Blo’ Norton Village Hall
-1
Sat 30th Jan 10am
7pm on Sat 5th Dec Dust off your 50s Gear (optional!)
ub, The Woodland Cl
opp Tacolneston
Bar, Local Draft Beer, Dancing, Quiz Tickets Adult £10 Children £4.50 to include 2 course meal
Primary School
ren free Entry 50p, child Friends of All proceeds to ol. n Tacolnesto Scho
Available from Maureen 07789 180115 & Patrick 01953 681996 or sbltgk@gmail.com
Christmas with Thetford Voices
Invites young singers aged from 6-16 to join them for a Christmas Carolling holiday workshop on Tuesday 22nd Dec.
Meet at 11.30 in Thetford Grammar School to rehearse carols and Christmas songs before an afternoon singing in reside ntial homes across Thetford
The day ends in St Peter’s Church, Thetford at 6.30 (to 7.15) with guest s joining to perform for families, friend s and members of the public There is no charge for the day, made possible through the support of Thetf ord Grammar School, Coach Services of Thetford, Thetford Town Council & Breckland Council Info & application forms from thetfordvoices@gmail.com
34
GIANT
TOMBO LA
-
GIFTS
-
REFRESH MENTS
-
CATS!
29
Registered charity number 1144830
www.felinecare
.org.uk
MILITARIA FAIR
Sun 10th Jan - 10 until 2 Thetford Leisure Centre, Croxton Rd, Thetford, IP24 1JD
Health & Beauty Eye Allotments Time for Digging
After a major tidy up there are some vacant allotments to rent for 2015-2016
plot for Rates start from £10.50 for a half ents) resid nonfor .50 Eye residents (£15 healthy uce prod to way An allotment is a great and keep fit ly fami your & you for food cost low at the same time 07713 196251 Contact the Eye Town Clerk on .org or email townclerk@eyesuffolk
Hub Café Hethersett ith dementia,
w For people arers friends & c s, e ili m their fa l Care Home, ethersett Hal Join us at H NR9 3AP Norwich Rd month y of each 3rd Tuesda noon 12 & am between 10 r all
ing fo hristmas sing Dec 15th – C ra otog phy Jan 19th – Ph
contact More info 86 01603 8107 Richelle on
Diggers & Dibblers Ga
rden Club
QUIZ & CHIPS NIGH
Sat 5th Dec at Forncett
T
Village Hall
Doors open at 6.30pm for dressing tables, 7.30pm the quiz starts, fish and chip supper at 8.30 pm Bring your own drinks, hor s d’ oeuvres, chandelier, cruet, puddin g, napkins,whatever! Teams of up to 8, admissi on by ticket only £8
Raffle, welcome drink on
Contact Su Leavesley on
arrival
01953 789752
LI NIGHT IL H C & IZ U Q m 28th Nov 7p
Saturday , NR18 9JR Station Road Village Hall w Ro r ne LABLE Spoo SNACKS AVAI DRINKS AND FT SO , ER WINE, BE size 6 – Max team £6 per person TICKETS:
anton Bridget H ton@aol.com an h bl – 6965 01953 60 ennett K on ar h S t@aol.com on.kennet 38 – shar 40 60 3 0195 DITION 2017
UADOR EXPE sses IN AID OF EC Local Busine Donated By ly nd Ki es iz Raffle Pr
List your local event for FREE on our Village Notice Board Email details to Lily at editor@village-people.info
It’s
FREE to
list evenytour !
Excellence in Electrical Delivering a Reliable & also Reputable service across Norfolk & Suffolk
› Domestic Services › Commercial & Industrial
JASON PECK 01508 488 007 • 07718 206 110 enquiries@excelelectrical.co.uk www.excelelectrical.co.uk
35
Home & Garden
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opening times mon-fri 9-5 sat -9-4 sunday closed
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37
OnYour
PLOT
EVERYTHING CHILLS BUT THE GARDENER
DON’T GET TOO COMFORTABLE There’s no time to relax: winter is the season to do all the jobs that get left behind the rest of the year. You’re no longer dead-
heading and endlessly lawn-mowing so use your time wisely and do what you were too busy to do in the warmer weather.
Here are some garden project ideas for you this winter:
• Reshape your borders • Install a water feature • Build a potting shed or summerhouse • Clean up the patio and paving • Plan your bedding areas for the year ahead • Order seeds for spring • Garden clearance (fallen twigs, debris, etc.) • Replace damaged fencing
BUY DIRECT FROM THE GROWERS
“The Gardeners Centre”
Xmas Trees
Handmade Holly Wreaths
Selection of Xmas Pot Plants
Roses
Fruit Trees
£15
Trees
£25 Foundry Plant Centre ‘On the A140’ Tasburgh NR15 1NS
www.foundryplantcentre.co.uk OPEN 7 DAYS 9am - 4pm
38
from
£3.00 Large Selection of Hedging & Native Hedging
Winter Bedding Plants
01508 470357
PRODUCE TO SOW AND GROW Don’t forget your main aim of the season is to protect your plants from the frost. Anything tender needs to be moved indoors or covered well before the cold snaps snap. But there’s plenty of plants that still need your attention. Garlic: It is actually a tradition to plant garlic on the shortest day of the year to be harvested from July. Garlic can be planted either indoors or outdoors (if the soil is warmed by covering with a fleece or cloche first). Just break into individual cloves and plant about 10cm apart. Push the cloves into the soil so their tips are just below the surface and keep well watered during dry weather so that they swell. Broad beans: Sow hardy varieties (such as Aquadulce Claudia and Super Aquadulce) until the middle of December and protect well from frost and snow. This prevents the plant tissues from becoming soft and toppling over. Herbs: Sow fast-growing herbs including basil, parsley, dill and chives now and leave them in your greenhouse or on a south-facing windowsill. The same goes for hardy salad leaves such as Rocket, Mizuna, Land Cress, Valdor, Arctic King and Winter Gem – and be sure to keep the plants well-protected from frost once you start to see them appear above the soil.
ONLY THE PLUMP AND THE FIRM If you’re quick, there should just be enough time to plant spring bulbs such as daffodils, crocus and tulips. Only buy bulbs that are plump and firm and plant them with the top facing upwards. They should be two to three times their own depth, and spaced two bulb-widths apart. Just keep the compost moist and very wellprotected from frosts and reap the rewards in the new year!
Fruit: You can plant strawberries, blackberries, gooseberries and blueberries outdoors under a frost fleece any time between now and the spring.
●
● ●
●
Quality tree care and maintenance No obligation quotations Qualified, Certified, Experienced Fully Insured
39
Home & Garden
hempnall lawnmower centre
selling many brands & models of ride-on mowers, lawnmowers, chainsaws, hedge trimmers, snow blowers, log splitters, strimmers and much more servicing and repairs of all garden machinery Collection service available our well furnished showroom is open to the public
Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm saturday mornings - by appointment only Please feel free to drop by – no appointments needed! Check out the full range at www.mowdirect.co.uk
for friendly advice and guidance on selecting the most appropriate machine for your needs, give one of our sales team a call on
01508 473700
Covering Norwich and South Norfolk All tree & hedge work undertaken | Qualified & insured Visit website for customer testimonials and more
Amza Cottage, Swardeston Lane, East Carleton, NR14 8LF
www.asilletttreesurgeon.co.uk
Professional Fruit Tree Pruning NIGEL PAYNE Specialising in restoring old fruit trees Also wall trained and espalier Apples and Pears pruned October to April Plums and other ‘stone’ fruit when in leaf
01359 253545 07816 130934
nudgepayne@hotmail.com www.fruittreepruning.co.uk
ReederTimber Est. 1977
FIREWOOD
Tree Surgery
Telephone:
01508 488452 / 01508 489686 40
Tree Surgeon
01508 218657 / 07818 418074
brick kiln Lane, Morningthorpe, Long stratton, Norwich, NR15 2LH
Fencing
A. Sillett
CJ’S MACHINERY Quality Service & Repair To All Your Lawn & Garden Machinery Tel: 01603 811808 Mob: 07799 847026 Email: enquiries@cjgardenmachinery.co.uk Web: www.cjgardenmachinery.co.uk 3 Station Lane, Hethersett, Norwich NR9 3AX
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T
Christmas greetings from Ken
he festive season is full of traditions, the gathering of family and friends, chaotic city shopping trips (until you discover the delights of shopping locally that is!) and turkey with all the trimmings to mention just a few - these plus many others go hand in hand to make this time of year special for us all. One of the pivotal parts of a family Christmas is the tree (second only to Santa of course), and for a rapidly growing band of customers their Christmas preparations wouldn’t be complete without a visit to The Garden Enclosure to purchase a fresh Christmas tree. So why do they choose us, what makes our trees so great, and how should you look after yours? Before you set out to select a tree make sure you know where you’re going to put it. Ideally position it away from radiators or open fires as, unlike us, trees prefer to be cool. Size is vitally important, measure the space that’s available, noting the maximum height and width, and bring these details with you, as trees appear much bigger when you actually get them indoors! Always choose early to avoid disappointment, last year we quickly sold out of certain sizes (sorry if you missed out, we’ll have even more trees this year). There are two main types of Christmas tree available, Norway Spruce is the old favourite, giving a strong pine fragrance, but prone to needle-loss in warm rooms so best suited to cool conservatories or outside displays. The modern replacement is the Nordmann Fir, a glossy soft to touch needle-fast type, perfect for all family areas. Whichever type you choose, it needs to be fresh, our cut
trees are sourced from plantations right here in Norfolk and Suffolk, unlike many retailers who purchase trees felled weeks before you see them from forests in Denmark, Belgium, Germany and beyond. A real tree brings Christmas Choosing your tree should to life, and why not add to the natural feel indoors be fun so take your time, by dotting some seasonal natural trees don’t grow perfectly evenly so get houseplants around, or someone or us to hold make up an arrangement different trees out and using colourful cyclamen, give them a spin to find variegated ivy, either sleek or their best side. Once chunky candles and ribbon chosen, we’ll net your tree embellishments. (free of charge) for easy transport home, we can put it in your car for you, place it to one side for collection later, or arrange delivery if it’s a monster! At home, saw a slice off the bottom of the trunk (or we can do this for you before you leave) and fit into a water-retaining stand, make sure the tree is upright and lift off the net, turn it to show the front side and then decorate to your heart’s delight. Don’t forget to check the water level regularly and keep it topped up. Last of all, remember to welcome guests to your home with a stylish fresh wreath on your door, we have all you need to create your own, or you can cheat and buy one of ours all ready to hang up! Merry Christmas!
Cheers, Ken
Nordmann fir
The Garden Enclosure at Banham
great trees, great prices, great service!
INDEPENDENT GARDEN CENTRE & GIFT SHOP Ample 01953 888043 www.gardenenclosure.co.uk parking & Fresh Christmas trees, fir wreaths, gorgeous gifts & goodies, stress-fr ee beautiful basketware, floristry sundries, seasonal plants .... & more! shoppi
Find us at Banham Zoo, NR16 2HE - outside Zoo ticket kiosks Open Thursday to Monday 9.30am to 5.00pm (closed Dec 25th to Jan 15th)
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Ben Di Lisi plate Debenhams £45
Antler candelabra Next £18
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Felt reversible table runner Primark £5
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Years
1965 - 2015
This years must have Christmas present, has got to be an
Electric Garage Door. With the holiday season fast approaching, we are giving you and your loved ones, the opportunity to motorise your existing retractable garage doors from as little as:
£449.00* inc. VAT
With FREE installation & two remote controls. Why not contact our friendly and knowledgeable staff today.
YEAR
Warranty
* Price valid for doors upto 3m wide and within 10 miles of Norwich.
We have been established for 50 years and are renowned in Norfolk, Suffolk and across East Anglia for providing excellence of service and an extensive range of high quality products. Showroom Open: Monday to Friday 8am - 5pm & Saturday 8.30am - 12pm Cooks Blinds & Doors Sweetbriar Industrial Estate, Norwich, Norfolk, NR3 2BS. T: 01603 410304 F: 01603 405090 E: sales@cooksblinds.co.uk Dock Shelters
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Placemat 4-pack Marks & Spencer £15
Viner rose gold titanium 16-piece cutlery set Very £99
Granite & Quartz Worktops
all made to order at our workShop Let us help you transform your home with beautifully designed items made to your exact sizes and requirements. We also manufacture bespoke hearths, slips and vanity tops units 1&2 oakwood ind. est., harling road, Snetterton nr16 2Ju
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Home & Garden
Great Christmas cooking starts with a clean oven call in the experts!
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If you need anything covered - call us! J K Anderson NDF F. ARBOR. A
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We’re best known for our Specialist Boat Covers, but we also make covers for all sorts of other uses: • Log Stores • Garden Furniture • Custom Awnings • Weather Screens • Winter Covers • General Canvas work • Military & Truck Canvas • Repairs & Alterations
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Swimming in the diet pool... Our food writer, Nadia Render, dives into the world of weight-loss
A
fter the excesses of the warmer months, most of us are feeling that we need to lose a few pounds. It’s the barbecues and garden parties, beers on the terrace, holiday cocktails, ice cream on the pier… all just lovely memories now we’re back in our jeans again. They don’t seem to fit like they used to. Have they shrunk?
And now it’s the party season, meaning little black dresses and lots of Christmas food! I decided to take action. I was going on a diet and I’d chosen the fast diet – “The 5:2”, as it is commonly known. For those not familiar, this diet is five days of eating your recommended calorie intake (based on a calculation of your age, weight and gender) and two days of fasting (taking in only a fraction of the other days’ calories). My calorie intake on fasting days was meant to be 500. Now I did this diet three years ago, for eight weeks, following two years of weight gain when I was doing a long commute and very little physical activity. I was very successful, lost all the weight I’d wanted to, felt full of energy and some of my ailments, such as my IBS, were under control.
to achieve. It even credited my food allowance when I logged my exercise, and it worked! I’m nearly down to my target weight and it’s all down to my new awareness of how much I consume and work off each day. Nonetheless, my experience of the 5:2 taught me about control and to choose food wisely. Rather than eating a tiny sugar-packed muffin for 300 calories, I could have a large plate of salad leaves with mixed vegetables, Quorn chicken and a heaped spoonful of piri piri hummus. It really put things into perspective. Learn from me: do your research before taking the diet plunge by reading up on several methods to make sure you choose the right one for you. Don’t become disheartened if the first one doesn’t work and take learnings from them all.
But this time it was very different. I barely shifted a pound. I was starving and miserable on my fast days and my ailments remained the same. So I decided to try something else. I downloaded a health and fitness app on my phone, which tracked my weight and told me my calorie allowance according to what I wanted
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Home & Garden
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COSMO, a world banqueting restaurant in London St in Norwich offers a dining experience for everyone to enjoy. Village People has already been along to ensure the new ‘Eat All You Like for One Set Price’ restaurant is up to scratch, and we would like to recommend that our readers head to the city and give it a go. With more than 150 dishes from around the world and various live cooking stations, COSMO Norwich delivers seasonal menus from a global kitchen. COSMO Norwich provides a buzzy atmosphere and a trendy interior providing Chinese, Japanese, Italian, Thai, Vietnamese, Mexican, Carvery or Continental food. You will be spoilt for choice. An ideal venue for families, small and large parties, perfect for Christmas celebrations. And there is even a chocolate fountain.
WIN
an Eat All You Like meal for four!
To be in with a chance of winning a meal for four at COSMO Norwich, simply answer the following question: COSMO serves authentic food from all over the world, but how many dishes are available to choose from?
A. Between 15 and 20 B. Between 50 and 100 C. More than 150 Send your answer, along with your name, address and daytime phone number with COSMO as the subject to competition@village-people.info by Friday 29 Jan 2016. One entry per person. If winner is under 18 years old he/she must be accompanied by an adult when redeeming prize. The prize entitles the winner and three friends to dine for free at COSMO Norwich, during either its lunch or dinner service. The prize is redeemable Monday to Thursday, excluding Bank Holidays, Valentines Day, Fathers Day and Mothers Day. The prize includes food only and is non-transferable, non-negotiable and cannot be substituted for any other prize or cash value, nor can it be used in conjunction with any other offer. The prize must be redeemed by 28 April 2016 by advance reservation only. The prize is subject to availability and COSMO cannot guarantee a particular time or date until a booking is made and confirmed. Usual Village People rules apply.
Complete Carpentry are specialists in:
Offering a professional, cost-effective service with over 25 years of experience. Covering South Norfolk, we’re specialists in period renovation, stunning wood floors, garden decking and detailing. Call for a free quote on 01953 454642 / 07775 796656. www.norfolk-carpentry.co.uk
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• • • • • • •
1st/2nd fix carpentry Kitchen installation Doors & windows Bespoke joinery Fitted wardrobes Decking & fencing Hardwood & laminate flooring • Tudor, Victorian & Georgian repairs • General repairs & property maintenance
Do YOU neeD a cleaner? home-maid is a local family run cleaning agency and can provide you with a regular weekly clean for just £10.50 per hour (min 2 hours per week) our cleaners are all vetted, insured and hardworking, and we aim to provide excellent customer service together with excellent cleaning standards If you could use some help with your cleaning, ironing or both then our service is perfect for you. Call us TODAY for a friendly chat
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50
New Vauxhall Astra CAR REVIEW
By Tim Barnes-Clay, Motoring Journalist Twitter @carwriteups www.carwriteups.co.uk www.carwriteups.co.uk www.car
V
auxhalls have never been at the top of my list of “must have” cars and that’s strange, because I’ve owned two of them.
They were both Astras, and I liked them. The last one I bought was back in 2000; it was silver and had an Irmscher body kit. it looked great at the time – or maybe I thought it did because I was still in my 20s then and only had myself to please. These days I’m a dad with a whole different set of priorities about what I need from a car. Now with three kids, I look at how easy it is to fit child seats in a car, I check out if the boot will swallow a pushchair and a weekly shop. All sorts of boring things like that. And do you know what? Yes, the latest Astra is great for strapping a nine-year-old, six-year-old and a two-year-old into the back seat, and the load-area is bang on for a buggy.
Compared with its predecessor, this new five-door Astra is shorter, yet it offers more rear legroom. It drives well, too, and with its new “whisper” 1.6 diesel engine, it has some nice low-down shove. Indeed, this version will be the fleet choice, allowing up to 91mpg and releasing just 85g/km of CO2 in its lowest 108bhp semblance. But we only got to drive the 134bhp version (76mpg), which still gives decent performance and is both effortless and hushed. The new Astra doesn’t have the wow-factor looks of some rival hatchbacks, but it isn’t ugly and is the first Vauxhall to feature OnStar. This ground-breaking connectivity technology includes highspeed 4G LTE mobile network, emergency response notification and stolen vehicle recovery alert. Taken as a whole, the new Astra is a highly-affable and spirited car. The VW Golf still leads the
segment in terms of drivability and aesthetics, but the fresh Vauxhall works for me, and in spite of its rather bland looks, it has very few failings. It feels solid, it has airbags everywhere, it’s comfortable, economical, spacious, has decent pulling power, and it even has a great sounding music system. For value for money, it’s a top motor – and you get a lot of car for the dosh. PROS ‘N’ CONS Drives well √ Hi-tech kit √ Roomy √ Efficient √ Bland Looks X FAST FACTS – Design 1.6CDTi 16v (136PS) ecoFL 99g S/S Max speed: 124 mph 0-62 mph: 10.3 secs Combined mpg: 76.3 Engine layout: 1598 cc, 4 cylinder, 16 valve turbo diesel Max. power (bhp): 134 Max. torque (lb/ft): 320 CO2: 99 g/km Price: £18,405
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Home & Garden
ALL MAKES & MODELS CARS, 4X4 & LIGHT COMMERCIALS PRE-MOT CHECKS & MOT REPAIRS FULL DIAGNOSTICS AUTO ELECTRICAL SERVICES WELDING & RESTORATION AIR CONDITIONING TRACKING & WHEEL ALIGNMENT RECOVERY & VEHICLE MOVING
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Join in the chorus
he autumn brought a new term for The Waveney Choir, with another enjoyable year of rehearsals and concerts ahead of them.
A performing choir with a large repertoire, The Waveney Valley Choir’s finale for last season was a performance of Karl Jenkins’ The Armed Man: A Mass for Peace in Wymondham Abbey with sister choir, The Poringland Singers. It was an extremely powerful work and audience members described it as “spine tingling” – particularly with the live orchestra and organ. The choir began rehearsing for their Christmas concerts in late September; much too early to think about other Christmas paraphernalia, but never too early for Christmas music. When their director, Ian Elliot, came up with two carols by composer Grayston Ives, from the choir’s hometown Diss, they were delighted. Deputy director Sarah-Jane Bullock has also composed a new tune for In the Bleak Midwinter. In the Bleak Midwinter is a very popular carol and most people are familiar with the version composed by Gustav Holst. As with most things so well-loved, the tune to Christina Rossetti’s words was first met
with resistance. However, the choir has fallen in love with Sarah-Jane’s music and are sure their audience will too. The Waveney Choir will be performing at the Mayor’s Town Concert in Diss on December 1 (venue to be confirmed at time of writing due to the Corn Hall refurbishment) and, on December 9 (also to be confirmed), the choir will be holding a Christmas Concert at Garboldisham Village Hall. Finally, on December 16 you can catch the choir performing “at home” in the URC Diss, with the festive mulled wine, mince pies and the opportunity to have a singalong of the old favourites. For further details and tickets, visit www.waveneychoir.org.uk If you enjoy singing and are willing for some dedicated practice, come and join us each Wednesday evening in the URC Diss – especially men, who are under-represented in our choir – you won’t have to audition!
“The time leading up to the funeral was made bearable knowing that you were at the end of the telephone.” – from a family we have cared for at Rosedale
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Home & Garden
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KITCHEN & BEDROOM DESIGN & FITTING • JOINERY 54
The way we were:
The Seaside
In the third of a series of articles looking at life in East Anglia 150, 100 and 50 years ago, Sarah Doig takes a look at how our seaside has changed.
W
e owe our love of the seaside to the Victorians. In 1865, middle-class family holidays and works outings to seaside resorts such as Great Yarmouth, Southwold, Cromer and Lowestoft were all the rage. This trend was fuelled by three main factors. The first was that medical wisdom started to advocate “taking the cure” at a spa or coastal town with plenty of fresh, sea air. It was also, though, the rapid expansion in the railway network which allowed innercity residents to access the seaside. And lastly, spending power amongst the professional classes was such that families could afford to take a break away from the routine of daily life. The working class, too, could benefit from day-trips organised by Sunday schools and employers. They embraced a whole host of seaside entertainments such as music hall, brass bands, pleasure gardens and exhibitions. One major preoccupation with visitors to the British seaside was bathing. Bathing machines were essentially four-wheel carriages which stood on the beaches. Men and women got into the carriage through a door which faced inland. They then changed into their swimwear in the bathing machine and exited it through a door in the opposite side, down some steps straight into the sea. Once mixed
Bathing Machine postcard from
the early 1900s
gender bathing became socially acceptable, the days of the bathing machine were numbered. The bathing machine had already started to disappear from our resorts in 1915 when the country, in any case, was far more concerned with doing their bit for the war effort. By 1965, the British public’s obsession with the seaside was still as strong as ever. Popular attractions included donkey rides, Punch and Judy shows, candyfloss and beach entertainers. The holiday camp was also in its heyday; they were the forerunners of the modern allinclusive holiday. One independent holiday camp at Caister could accommodate up to 800 men, women and children in chalets and huts, all with cold running water. Situated right on the beach with more than 90 acres of land, the camp also had a licensed bar and provided organised games and sports. Seaside holiday camps are still a popular choice today, albeit in rather plusher accommodation than fifty years ago! Sarah’s latest local history book, A Rural Education: The History of Schooling in Botesdale, Redgrave and Rickinghall, has just been published. You can read more at www.quatrefoil.org.uk
Victorian Cromer
Sarah Doig also offers a family, house & local history research service, visit www.ancestral-heritage.co.uk for more information.
55
Home & Garden
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Quality stoves exclusive ranGe Great advice
WIN SOUL LEGENDS TICKETS TO
Searching for some soul?
Enter our competition to be in with a chance of winning one of three pairs of tickets to Soul Legends at The Apex, Bury St Edmunds this December! Billed as “the feel good show of the year”, the stateside spectacular Soul Legends is coming to town. Boasting more soul classics than any other production, the show brings us 32 songs from the likes of Aretha Franklin, James Brown, Tina Turner, and many more. With truly gifted musicians, elaborately authentic costumes and jaw-dropping choreography, plus hits including Ain’t Nobody, Knock On Wood and Three Times a Lady… there truly ain’t no stopping us now!
Village People has teamed up with The Apex to give three lucky winners a pair of tickets each to the show on Thursday 10 December.
To be in with a chance of winning, simply email your name, address and daytime phone number, including the word SOUL in the subject to competition@village-people.info by Sunday 6 December. Usual Village People rules apply.
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Home & Garden
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Oral Traditions Gypsies on the Common Now a series of DVDs When Les and Edna Elliot arrived in a gypsy wagon on Mellis Common last summer, Neil Lanham asked them to tell him some stories. Neil was amazed at what they told him because, although neither one had attended school, they were articulate to a high degree in the spoken world of storytelling and had hundreds of life’s experiences to share. They spoke of brushes with the law, landowners who refused them water, how they cried when they had nothing, and of their joy in finding religion. They were both born in wagons on the side of the road and had travelled all their lives. Enticed by Edna’s cooking and singing, Neil returned day after day to learn more. These recordings, together with an archive film of travelling to Stow Fair in 1994, show the pair’s love of horses, nature and fireside entertainment and have been highly praised by other gypsies. The series of DVDs are available from Neil (as below).
The “rags to riches” story of Tom Walne Tom is a horseman, like his father, who lives in a council house with his wife Sandy. Every heavy horse that they have ever owned has been given to them and one such mare arrived with a vet’s certificate stating that she could not be got in foal. She was a real looker and both Tom and his friend, Bruce Smith, differed from the vet’s opinion, so the mare soon became mother to offspring that won prize after prize. But, when a notice arrived requesting the attendance of Tom and Sandy to a big London Hotel to receive their British Breeders Award for Outstanding Mare, Tom was reluctant “to enter that world”. Fortunately he did, and to much applause, and also “a meagre plate of grub with square potatoes” - the likes of which he hadn’t ever seen in Suffolk! Full story on DVD95.
TRADITIONS OF SUFFOLK Over 100 DVDs and CDs of local Horsemen, Blacksmiths, Gamekeepers, Poachers, Horse Dealers, Gypsies, Stepdancers and traditional singers.
See full details on:
www.oraltraditions.co.uk or for FREE BROCHURE
tel 01379 890568
59
“ To perfect the art of
friendship and to give scholarships” Readers may well wonder how these two aims fit together.
The answer is in The British Federation of Women Graduates (BFWG), which was formed in 1907 to help women at university during a time when they were a rarity. The name is misleading because women with professional qualifications are also members, members such as nurses, teachers, lawyers, doc doctors tors and wo women men with business qualifications,, in associa associations tions thr throughout oughout the UK. The Nor Norfolk folk and Norwich Norwich As Association sociation of BFWG wa wass founded unded ov over er 60 ye years ars ago by a local doc doctor. tor. It has a full and va varied ried pr programme ogramme of ev events, ents, and meets regularly gularly at Th The e Co Costessey stessey Ce Centre ntre fo forr in interesting teresting talks – Through ugh Fi Fire re and Wa Water: ter: Sa Saving ving Nor Norfolk’s folk’s Ar Archives, chives, Travels in Et Ethiopia, hiopia, and As Ash h Dieback ar are e just a fe few w from this ye year. ar. Th There ere ar are e also to topical pical discussions discussions,, quizzes, visits, visits a book gr group oup (which meets re regularly gularly at Waterstones), ones), an Ou Out-to-Lunch t-to-Lunch Club (which travels all over the co county), unty), as we wellll as man manyy other social events which families ar are e in invited vited to to.. Th There ere is something for ev everyone eryone and and,, best of all all,, ev every ery member gains friendship iendship and suppor support. t. Nationally, the Charitable itable Fo Foundation undation of BFWG gi gives ves scholarships and bursar bursaries, ies mean ies, meanwhile while the Nor Norfolk folk fo lk and Norwich Association tion gi gives ves an annual aw award ard to one girl entering higher educa education tion or tr training. aining. Th The e award alternates each year ar bet between ween a co county unty school
Solicitor, Nest Overend, at
the National Confereenc ncee at
Wymondham
and a cit cityy school school,, and the associa association tion alw always ay looks forward fo rward to hear hearing ing ho how w the re recipient cipient has got on. There Th ere is an annual seminar fo forr BFWG associa associations tions at Westminster, We stminster, as we wellll as re regular gular in invitations vitations to ev events organised by HQ and to visit other associations. These Th ese ar are e publicised in a quar quarterly terly new newspaper spaper and in monthly email letters from the president. BFWG members automatically become members of the international organisation, Graduate Women International (GWI), which has branches in over 60 countries working hard to ensure global education for girls and women. Its head office is in Geneva and it regularly makes representations to the United Nations on various matters. International meetings are held all over the world so there are plenty of opportunities to travel and local associations offer hospitality to visitors – quite recently Romanian guests stayed in Norwich. Furthermore, a Scottish member has just become International Vice President. If yo you u enjo enjoy y the co company mpany of lik like-minded, e-minded well-informed we well-inf ll-informed ll-inf ormed wo women men and belie believe there is a need to suppor supportt gi girls rls mo moving to education beyond school, then why not join BFWG? Visit the website at bfwg.org.uk or phone the local secretary on 01603 812668 for further information. You will be made very welcome.
60
Home & Garden GASWORKS (SOUTH EAST) LTD FOR ALL YOUR PLUMBING AND HEATING NEEDS:
We can service, repair, and install all makes and models of Gas, Oil and LPG boilers SERVICING FROM £55.00 CALL US ON :
01603 261737
T OUN DISC 10% OR ALL PLE F O E GE P VILLA EADERS R
FREE
HOMEOWNER SAFETY CERTIFICATE WITH EVERY SERVICE
All types of pitched and flat roofs
EY’S ELECTRICA L H S DOMESTIC, COMMERCIAL &
L
A
10% DISC OU VILLAFOR ALL NT GE P READ EOPLE ERS
INDUSTRIAL INSTALLATION WORK FAULT DIAGNOSIS & REPAIR INSPECTION, TESTING & CERTIFICATION
SERV ICES
Contact: Richard Ashley Tel: 01508 489088 Mobile: 07787 376416 109 The Street, Ashwellthorpe, Norfolk. NR16 1EZ
Re-roofs & repairs Felt & rubber flat roofs
Please call Paul Curtis 07540 085736 or 01508 578633 www.pacroofing.co.uk
Lead & brick work Chimney rebuilds Fascia Guttering
Kitchen Installation - full or part Complete service including plumbing, tiling & flooring Worktop & Door Replacement
Chris Rush
01379 677503 07917 125633 cp.rush@yahoo.co.uk
Breckland
ROOFING Limited
Expert Friendly Advice at Competitive Rates!
Specialists in all type of re-roofing, new work and maintenance
Tiles, slate or replace leaking flat roofs WE WILL Chimneys re-pointed and taken down BEAT ANY Lead flashings and cladding WRITTEN Supply and delivery of materials QUOTE Discounts for Senior Citizens
Long Street, Great Ellingham, Attleborough, Norfolk NR17 1LL
Tel: 01953 457545 Fax: 01953 457676 Email: breckland-roofing@btconnect.com
61
Home & Garden
Barn Stored Seasoned Hardwood
DAVE RAMSTEAD - ELECTRICIAN • 25 Years’ experience
Oak, Ash, Sycamore, Birch Beech Etc... Shelfanger Firewood M: 07802 186347 T: 01379 687646 E: r.aves@icloud.com Jim Gibbon Your Local OvenGleamer
BEFORE
• Competitive no VAT charged • Norfolk & Suffolk covered
Call Dave on 01379 688445 or 07952 287975
www.ramsteadelectricians.co.uk djramstead@gmail.com
Broadland enV ltd
WOuld yOu
like your
OvEn, RAnGE
AFTER
OR AGA
ALL WORK BACKED BY
ovenGleamers
GlEAmEd?
SATiSFAcTiOn GuARAnTEE
✔ Full Strip Down Clean ✔ Fully Qualified & insured ✔ easy Call, Quote & Book ✔ All makes and models
✔ Safe for Children/Pets ✔ Safe for Asthmatics ✔ looks after your cooker ✔ inclusive pricing
call now: 01603 340616 www.ovengleamers.com
oil storaGe tanK installers
n
oil tanks supplied & installed n Base preparation n old tanks removed
call rob on
01379 677126 07788 482422 www.broadlandtanks.co.uk Oil Tanks Supplied and installed
Merc-Pro Ltd
Pipe Work Gauges Fuel Pumps Spares 24 hour call out
Tel: 01953 423 475 Mercedes independent specialist Prestige car servicing Diagnostics & repairs Unit 1a Wymondham Business Centre Eleven Mile Lane NR18 9JL
VAN AND A MAN Move Anything, AnytiMe, Anywhere NATIONWIDE COVERAGE Single iteM or Full houSehold reMovAlS SAMe dAy Service Seven dAyS / eveningS Student MoveS oFFice / PiAno MoveS Free inStAnt QuoteS All cleArAnceS undertAken
Tel: 01953 488919 Mobile: 0771 407 3300
www.vanandaman.com Email: toni@vanandaman.com
62
Established over 30 years
01508 570629 07979 846139
info@pdoiltanks.co.uk
Watton Road, Hingham, Norfolk, NR9 4NN
Domestic
www.pdoiltanks.co.uk
Agricultural
Commercial
Supporting Local Business GREAT RECOMMENDATIONS FROM YOUR AREA
Village Peop
READERleS
RECOMME
ND
Just a few recent comments from readers about some of the local businesses that are on offer in your area. With great recommendations like this in every issue, make sure Village People is your first thought when you need a local service.
AMZA BEAUTY
I never thought I had eyebrows I could do anything with until Rae did her magic with them ! Now I’m addicted to having them shaped with Rae. I was very comfortable with her professional servi ce. Definitely highly recommended.
THE HEARING CARE CENTRE LTD
“I wanted to drop you a line to thank you for your fantastic, thorough, attentive and incredibly swift service - my whole experience of dealing with The Hearing Care Centre has been faultless! I shall certainly be recommending you in future!”
Mr Bignell, Diss
HALES GROUP RECRUITMENT
COMPLETE CARPENTRY Lucian and Gary are highly skilled craftsmen who have completed various projects since we moved here in 2013. They are reliable, arrive promptly and their work is of the highest standard. We wouldn’t hesitate in recommending them to neighbouring village homes.
Ice watch has used Hales Recruitment since 2011 to fulfil all of our permanent and temporary staff needs. We have used Hales exclusively because they have always taken the time to understand our needs and culture and have always found candidates who fit the defined profiles. Their use of account management really works for us. Since forming our partnership with Hales we have recruited 11 full time staff and our staff retention has been in excess of 90% which is a fitting testimony to the quality of their service in finding the right people for us.
M. Adams, Norfolk
Colin Bloom, Managing Director, ICEWATCH
Would you like to recommend a service which you found in Village People? If so, get in touch! YOU CAN CALL US ON 01284 788623 OR EMAIL office@village-people.info
Home Computer Services mail@tivetshallcomputers.co.uk
John Powell Professional and accredited Tree Surgeons With 20 years experience we can cater for all your arboricultural needs
www.treefellasuk.com
Please feel free to contact us on
t: (01379) 871490 m: 07542 039490 £5m public liability insurance
07799 654424 Mobile Service New and used personal computers for sale Network installation & maintenance PC upgrades - repairs - tuition
63
Home & Garden
Lake & Pond Aquatics Water Garden Specialist
Expert advice - Competitive Rates
Design • Installation • Maintenance Pond Cleaning • Planting Advice
Contact Robert Foulger on: 01379 652720 07900 370304
lakeandpondaquatics@gmail.com www.lakeandpond-aquatics.co.uk
andrew p r love architecture . design . planning cherry tree farm wymondham road bunwell norfolk nr16 1nb
planning applications & building regulations submissions alteration works, extensions & conversions architectural design consultation & drawings specialist in listed buildings & conservation work site supervision & management excellent local knowledge and contacts domestic & commercial projects
South Norfolk
Design Award winner 2011 & 2013 for innovative and ecologically aware architecture please contact us on
t: 01953 789911 m: 07771 855225
e: info@andrewprloveadp.co.uk www.andrewprloveadp.co.uk
64
Home & Garden
J Moon
Home Improvements
Postmill Close, Wymondham, NR18 0NL
01953 601522 Traditional Conservatories “A” Rated Energy Windows Residential & Bi-Folding Doors Extension Work FENSA & CPA Registered www.jmoonhomeimprovements.co.uk
The SuperLite Roof Replacement System also for New Build Structures
Improve the value of your property
PAVING & LANDSCAPING SPECIALIST SOFT LANDSCAPING n n n n n
Water features plants & planting pond & lakes turfing raised beds in railway sleepers
HARD LANDSCAPING n n n n n
patios fencing & Gates Driveways Brickwork Block paving, tarmac & Shingle
01379 651541 01953 887346
to find out more for a FREE quotation no obligations and all works carried out come with a written guarantee
www.noblelandscapers.co.uk info@noblelandscapers.co.uk 65
Home & Garden
Buy Direct from the manufacturer rie
n ce ex p
ce exp ien e
e ienc exp
Kitchens don’t need to cost the earth • Bespoke and standard size units • Budget guidance, style and plan advice • All kitchens manufactured locally in Norfolk • Contracts & One off’s – No job is too big or too small
er
er
years
ience exp er
30
Manufacturing ‘Outside’ The Box...
• Extensive ranges from gloss to painted and everything else in-between • Speedy turnaround: 2 weeks from confirmation for non-painted orders • Kitchens come complete with doors ready to fit
Telephone 01379 674363
sales@voyagerkitchens.com www.voyagerkitchens.com
Contact us for a no-obligation quote and see how we compare 66
Home & Garden
Award Winning Landscaping and Design
Paving and Pathways Ponds and Water Features Lawn Laying Walls and Brickwork Timber and Decking Driveways, Fencing and Screening Garden Design by Georgina Read
t: 01953 852139 e: info@lifestylelandscaping.co.uk w: www.lifestylelandscaping.co.uk In Association with: Paving Superstore - Supplying all major brands of paving and landscaping products across the uk www.pavingsuperstore.co.uk
WINDOW & DOOR REPAIRS UPVC, Aluminium & Timber
Replacement of Locks, Hinges, Handles, Letterboxes, Patio Wheels, Double Glazed Units including Velux Windows & Door Adjustments,Cat Flaps and Fly Screens
We also supply & fit UPVC Windows & Doors 10 year Insurance Backed Guarantee on every installation
For a no nonsense, reliable & honest service call Chris at C&M Glass on
01953 630005 or 07900 265995 email: c.highe@btinternet.com The number one choice for Norfolk & Suffolk village people 67
Home & Garden
make your kitchen
smile again
Breathe new life into your home • From replacement doors to
complete kitchens • Free estimation & planning • Local family run business
13 Chalfont Walk, Eaton, Norwich, Norfolk NR4 7NH Call for a FREE Estimate: 01603 505595
www.dreamdoors.co.uk 68
View our credentials at
Home & Garden
SIMPSONS MOTOR GROUP 01493 601696 East Anglia’s largest motorhome supplier
LOOKING FOR A NEW OR USED ŠKODA CAR, MOTORHOME OR CARAVAN? Simpsons in Suffolk Road, Great Yarmouth, is the family-run, one-stop shop for all your motoring needs. With more than 50 years of experience, Simpsons prides itself on exceptional service and aftercare only a family-run business can give. Simpsons Škoda has earned the retailer of the year award four times in five years while Simpsons Motor Caravan Centre has expanded into the caravan market having built its name across the country for selling new and quality used motorhomes. Steve & Brinley - Call for motorhome sales
SERVICING PRICES Motorcaravans MOT’s: £54.85 Habitation Service: £175 Servicing from: £159
Caravans
Habitation Service
(Incorporating Mechanical Service): £199
Simpsons has also been appointed a Fiat Professional dealership, carrying out servicing, maintenance, repairs and warranty work on Fiat motorhomes and commercial vehicles.
Fully Approved Accident Repair Shop for Motorhomes and Caravans
Lee & Darren - Call for car sales
SERVICING PRICES Cars MOTs: £39 Minor Service: £139 Cambelt: £299 BrakeFluidChange:£49
Find us at: Suffolk Road, Great Yarmouth, Norfolk NR31 0LN MOTORCARAVAN: www.simpsonsmotorcaravans.com ŠKODA: www.simpsonsskoda.com
69
Health & Beauty
Prestige Nursing + Care
01603 666 643
www.prestige-nursing.co.uk
Trusted by local families since 1925
Parties in your own home. All girls love to be pampered, put make-up on and do girly things, so what better way to celebrate any occasion that feeling 100% pampered and loads of girly fun with their besties!
Cup & Pop Cake Spa-Tacular
(any age) 2.5 hours up to 6 guests per party
Candy Floss Making Spa Tacular
(any age) 2.5 hours up to 6 guests per party
Li’l Fairy Spa-Tacular (ages 4-6 years) 2.5 hours up to 6 guests per party
H.H. Aldiss 53 Baxter Row Dereham 01362 692233
Li’l Diva Spa-Tacular (ages 7-13 years) 2.5 hours up to 6 guests per party
Bestie’s Catch up Spa-Tacular (Adults) 3 hours Up to 4 guests per party
Free invitations provided, gift bags included. www.facebook.com/www.lifesoulbeauty.co.uk
01953 681696 or 07787 202534 www.lil-spa-tacular.co.uk
email: lilspataculars@gmail.com
70
Q&A HEALTH A pressing problem Q:
It’s too embarrassing for me to go to the doctors but I’ve been struggling to empty my bowels and I’m in a lot of pain and discomfort. What can I do?
A:
Constipation affects an estimated 25 per cent of the population, so finding a solution to this common problem is a must!
Linseed is one of the oldest fibre crops in the world and, aside from being recognised as an excellent remedy for constipation, it is renowned for its extensive health benefits too. In fact, one king back in the 8th century made it law that his subjects regularly ate linseed in order to keep them healthy. Though maintaining a healthy, balanced diet and exercising regularly is important, sometimes a kick-start is needed to get your bowel into action. Conventional laxatives can drain your body of essential nutrients so it is sensible to make dietary improvements as a longterm resolution. Linseed has a pleasant nutty flavour that can easily
be incorporated into many dishes. Sprinkle it over salads, yoghurt or cereal to add a little crunch to your dish. It can also be added into meatloaf, nut roast, flapjacks or even smoothies. Soaking linseed is a good option if being used to improve bowel function. Linseed can absorb up to ten times its volume in water, meaning that if you soak them before eating them they will quickly soften your stool, making it easier to pass. Contact the Natural Food Store, 4 Exchange Street, Norwich, for more helpful information. Tel: 01603 613228 www.shop-naturally.com
71
Health & Beauty
career care?
Have you considered a
in
Hales Group are one of the fastest growing healthcare providers and need enthusiastic people to join our team. Being part of the Hales Group Care Team is rewarding and satisfying but it also demands commitment and professionalism. The rewards of care work: l Make a real difference to adults in need of care l Work within your local community l Earn the best rates of pay for all the hours you work l Have an ongoing career l Paid travel time, mileage and expenses l Guaranteed hours to fit your needs* l Full, free induction training l Free qualifications and ongoing personal development
To become a part of our Care Team you need: l A caring personality and good communication skills l Care experience is useful but not necessary l Own transport preferred l To be flexible and have empathy with our service users l To share our values in providing outstanding care to our customers
To find out more about joining our team please contact us on: Norwich 01603 903150, Lowestoft 01502 530676, Thetford 01842 780000 or Ipswich 01473 732126 or email us on care@halesgroup.co.uk * subject to criteria
w w w.halescare.co.uk 72
25 stone and feeling so ill “I had tried for many years to lose weight, always telling my wife I’d be starting on Monday, but Monday would come and go and I’d make another excuse.”
2. Treating yourself to alcohol just at the weekends. Booze can really rack up calories.
At 25, Ben Keep weighed 25 stone and was battling health problems as a result.
3. Savouring your food. Research shows that overweight people tend to rush meals so try to spend longer enjoying what you eat.
“I had never felt so ill and every day felt like a struggle. I thought it was never going to end,” he said. “I was told my treatment wasn’t working as well as it should be and that my weight was possibly the reason.” Ben was determined to turn his life around and has now seen his waist drop from 48 inches to 34. He finally feels healthy. According to the NHS, about 1,000 Ac people die from obesity-related co conditions each week. If you have been struggling with your weight like Ben, try:
John at 21 stone
1. Phoning a friend. Research shows that cravings last about five minutes, so by the time you’ve asked how your friend’s day is going your urge for junk food will have disappeared.
4. Snacking smartly. Choose chicken slices, boiled eggs, healthy soup, low-calorie yoghurt or frozen grapes as sweets!
Award winning diet coach John Howard lost 7 stone in five months - and nine years on has kept his new shape.
5. Drinking to shrink. When you’re craving food, drink a large glass of water then see if you are still hungry in 10 minutes. 6. Picturing yourself thin. When you feel your willpower breaking, remember a time you looked your best for motivation.
To read Ben Keep’s full story please visit:
cambridgeweightplan.com/success-stories/53/ben-keep
Diet coach John Howard supports you on a one to one basis from Eye near Diss, and Stowhealth centre in Stowmarket, to lose about a stone a month and no longer be unhappy with your weight. He can be contacted on 0787 231 4653, 01379 678416, or by email at john@live-everyday.co.uk For more details, visit www.cambridgeweightplan.com/JohnH
01986 892643
www.all-hallows.org.uk
Personal assistance, shopping, companionship, meals, local transport & more. All Hallows Nursing Home, Bungay
Please contact Nicky today
01508 531 023 07917 735 415
info@aspirehomecare.co.uk www.aspirehomecare.co.uk
30
YEARS COMBINED EXPERIENCE
• Daycare • Long & Short Term Stays • Respite Care • Day Trips
• Private & Social Services Residents Welcome Daycare | Homecare | Hospital | Nursing Home Occupational & Physiotherapy | Specialist Care Home
73
Health & Beauty
Totally Thai
Hypnobalance Uk Hypnobalanceuk.co.uk
Hypnotherapy can help you deal with worries and stress to achieve a more balanced life through:
Ladies, enjoy a relaxing massage from a local Thai lady trained in Bangkok
ÂŁ25
Treatments start from Appointments available with Joanne in East Harling Mon to Sat 10 am to 5 pm
- counselling and hypnosis - relaxation techiques - the power of suggestion
A voucher would make a great Christmas gift!
pure relaxation sessions also available Free 30 minute consultation session Contact Diane for more information
01953 850598 07780 512151
diane.mortimer@sky.com http://hypnobalanceuk.co.uk
01953 717740 07825 510639 janekk4u@yahoo.com
New Dentures & Repair Service
The Lifeline Alarm Service offering reassurance to
Denture assessment > Advice > Manufacture > Fitting
the vulnerable and those who care about them
Nigel Towner CDT RCS
01379 676560
marlboroughdentallab.co.uk
74
Marlborough Dental Lab
Supporting Your Safety And Your Independence
www.contactcare.org.uk 0800 917 4680
or ring free on
Louis’ Best Christmas Gift
Norfolk journalist, Sandie Shirley, spotlights the inspiring stories of men and women from the region and beyond that have seen them reach for victory. For more stories visit: www.refreshingwaters.co.uk
G
reat Ellingham businessman and musician, Louis Serghe, will celebrate the festive season mindful of the best Christmas present he ever received, more than 35 years ago. After a broken marriage, the heartache of separation from his children and an unswerving quest to know the truth about life, Louis found the revelation that had touched him since boyhood. “It was as if I was given the biggest Christmas present I could ever have. As I came into the presence of the living God all my questions fitted together like a jigsaw puzzle and I had a new beginning and a new start with Jesus as I came into the light for the first time.” Even as a boy of eight, growing up in Glasgow, he was aware of good and evil and wondered what his purpose was in life. “I had a fear of dying and I knew my need of a protector and wanted to know who God was,” he recalls. As young as he was, he reasoned that knowing God through a man who walked on earth would make it easier to understand. While living in London, nearly two decades later, he was approached by various religious cults during the 1970s but remained unconvinced by the philosophies behind The Children of God and Hari Krishna movements, as well as the Mormon’s and Jehovah’s Witnesses. Finally, he got down on his knees and cried out: “God, whoever you are please speak to me and lead me to the right person because I am so confused.” He believes a strong voice in his mind told him to visit the park he frequented to meet someone who would help. Louis obeyed that inner prompting and met a man about the same age, who was also a musician and actor like himself, as he talked to someone about Jesus. Louis soon understood the declarations about the Saviour of the World and made them his own as he listened to the former Muslim who had converted to Christianity.
Louis Serghe He has shared his message of faith at Speaker’s Corner at London’s Hyde Park and with thousands of customers from his carpet cleaning business to share his empowering faith message. Now he is also a busy musician using his guitar to compile a future gospel album to help share his story. He tells of the reality of seeing his miracle-working God transform the lives of the sick and dying when he has prayed. An elderly man, for example, was hit by a car while crossing a busy London road. “Blood was pouring from a hole in his head and as I prayed that Jesus would bring healing I felt a great heat of his presence.” Prayer continued the following Sunday with the church congregation and that afternoon the injured man sat up in his hospital bed with just a small plaster on his head. “If people have never taken steps to see if Jesus is real, I would encourage them to do so. There is only one way to find true love and that is finding Jesus – I have tried all the other ways,” says Louis.
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The Best Christmas Cookies Ingredients 1 cup of water 1 teaspoon of baking soda 1 cup of sugar 1 teaspoon of salt 1 cup of brown sugar 4 large eggs 1 cup of nuts 2 cups of dried fruit 1 bottle Jose Cuervo Tequila Directions • Sample the Cuervo to check quality, and then get a large bowl • Check the Cuervo again just to be sure it is of the highest quality • Pour one level cup and drink it as fast as you can
• Turn on the electric mixer and beat one cup of butter in a large fluffy bowl • Add one peastoon of sugar and eat again • At this point it’s best to make sure the Cuervo is still ok so try another cup just in case • Turn off the mixerer thingy • Break 2 leggs and add to the bowl and chuck in the cup of dried fruit • Pick the frigging fruit off the floor • Mix on the turner • If the fried druit gets stuck in the beaters just pry it loose with a drewscriver • Sample the Cuervo to check for tonsisticity • Next, sift two cups of salt, or something (who geeves a sheet)
Esoteric Healing Therapies • Esoteric Healing • Esoteric Massage • Esoteric Connective Tissue Therapy • Esoteric Chakra-puncture
Gentle Breath Meditation
Clinic on the Green, Old Buckenham 7th Dec, 4th Jan, 1st Feb, 7th Mar 6.30pm – 7.30pm cost £5
www.beverleybulmer.co.uk 01953 454627 / 07901 888 122
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and check the Jose Cuervo • Now shift the lemon juice and strain your nuts, add one table • Add a spoon of brown sugar, or somefink - whatever colour you can find • Greash the oven and turn the cake tin 360 degrees and try not to fall over • Don’t forget to beat off the turner • Finally, throw the bowl through the window, finish the Cose Juervo and make sure to put the stove in the wishdasher
CHE MIST RRY MAS!
10% off your first treatment
MOBILE BEAUTY ThErApIsT
EyEbrows, ManicurEs, GEl Polish, sPray Tans 01508 218 657 | 07742 899 500 www.amzabeauty.uk
HIGH SECURITY HIGH QUALITY PVC-u WINDOWS, DOORS CONSERVATORIES FASCIAS & GUTTERING COMPOSITE DOORS
PVC-u & Aluminium Windows and Doors available in Artisan colours Sliding sash windows and Bi-Fold doors Buy Direct - Retail,Trade and DIY Double glazing repairs and spares Broken or misted double glazing units repaired 10 year insurance backed guarantee Established family business for 20 years FENSA registered installer
DOWS -u WIN 6 PVC from only Fitted
£149 5
Doors PVC-u m only o fr d Fitte
£395
VISIT OUR WEBSITE www.windowsplusuk.com SHOWROOM AND FACTORY AT
OPENING TIMES MON - FRI 7:30 - 4:30 SAT 9:00 - 3:00
UNIT 6 CASTON INDUSTRIAL ESTATE 175 SALHOUSE ROAD NORWICH NR7 9AQ Tel. 01603 438886 Fax. 01603 438902 Eve 07764604618 email. enquiries@windowsplusuk.com
UK WATER SERVICES Specialists in Water Softening & Filtration
25 years ago we teamed with Harvey Softeners, manufactures of the prestigious duplex (non-electric) super, efficient block salt softener. Still our most popular. We also supply & install other types particularly the Nuwave Range- all British made and very affordable.
So why have a water softener installed? Hello! I am Trevor, founder of the business 35 years ago. Still family owned by my son. We specialise in supply, installation and servicing of water softeners & filters to the good people of Norfolk & Suffolk.
MiniMax M2
• To stop scale and protect all plumbing & heating appliances • To save money on replacement items • To stop scum and save on soaps & cleaning materials • To generally improve your lifestyle
To find out more and arrange a free survey & estimate Call us on 01603 713606 Or visit www.ukwaterservices.com
Nuwave NC 180
77
Shopping
WINTER SALE STARTS 10 DECEMBER
SAVE UP TO
50%
Savings across the store
MIDDLETON STREET, WYMONDHAM 01953 603251 JARROLD.CO.UK
Images for illustrative purposes
Quality blinds and curtains FREE fitting FREE quote FREE measurement NO hassle NO pressure Book online today 5 YEAR GUARANTEE on everything
Sign up for our newsletter and receive a ÂŁ20 voucher visit www.norwichsunblinds.co.uk/VP1 Visit us at our Norwich or Attleborough showrooms: 8 St Benedicts Street, Norwich NR2 4AG 01603 334 013 11 - 14 Haverscroft Ind Est, Attleborough NR17 1YE 01953 544 012
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Shop with us: in centre | at home | on the go
We have over 80 fantastic shops, cafés and restaurants for you to enjoy. Open ‘til 8pm in December (9pm on Thursdays). For details visit intu.co.uk/Chapelfield © 2015 Intu Properties plc
Patterned PJ bottoms George at ASDA £6
Orange collared dress Dorothy Perkins £28
warmers Winter
Cosy up by the open fire in these warming colours
Bright knitted mules White Stuff £22.50
EYE AM READY to party!
FREE CONTACT LENS TRIAL
N O RWI CH AT T L E B O R O U G H DEREH AM H ALESWORTH H ARLESTON WAT T O N wroxham W Y M O N D HA M c ec i l a m ey .c o.u k
Looking Good!
* Terms and conditions apply. See website for details.
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Brown ow diamond geo print a-line skirt New Look £14.99
Your Little Local Toyshop
3 Market Place, Wymondham, NR18 0AG Tel 01953 605678
Red robin check nightshirt BHS £18
Leaf robe & slippers M&Co £35
Floral pussybow wrap top George at ASDA £14
Reversible dark check midweight scarf Very £14
Stella McCartney orange demi wire underwear House of Fraser £65
COME AND TRY OUR FANTASTIC RANGE OF GREAT VALUE
SOFAS, CHAIRS & BEDS NORWICH 01603 633133 215 - 217 Queens Road, NR1 3AE
NORWICH 01603 787070
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81
Ladies Who Lunch
MINCE PIE TASTING TEST scattering of sugar. One had a veritable blizzard of icing sugar on top. One or two were very deep, and one was noticeably flat.
V
ERY few households will be able to resist the lure of a box of supermarket mince pies over the coming weeks, so the Ladies Who Lunch team stayed at home and tested ten different mince pies. Just doing their bit for Village People’s local readers! Our brief was simple; sample a piece of mince pie and mark it out of five for taste, appearance, amount of filling and general “integrity”– which encompasses all other aspects, including whether they came out of the box whole, whether they had leaked any filling, or whether they had excessive amounts of pips in.
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PREPARATION The initial details were noted on a chart: shop, price, weight, calories (but you don’t want to know about that! Except that the Co-op was highest at 263 per pie!), number of ingredients, and whether it was suitable for vegetarians or not (most were).
It was a blind tasting so, with the rest of the team out of the room, I stuck an identifier on the underside of the plates, and swapped them around until even I couldn’t remember which was which. PACKAGING Three sets came in transparent plastic packs from in-store bakeries; Tesco’s had information on the packaging, Morrisons data was available online, but I couldn’t find anything for Sainsbury’s Instore Bakery ones. The other seven came in cardboard packaging – two of which were rather posher than the others, but you don’t eat the box. The Co-op had something in braille on the carton which might be useful for the blind (one phonecall later and I can report that it says“six deep-filled mince pies”) and each pie came in an aluminium tart case. GENERAL APPEARANCE There were marked differences in appearance of the pies; some had intricate snowflake or holly leaf motifs on top, others had a scant
INGREDIENTS At first I was shocked to see such long lists of ingredients, but soon realised that the mincemeat filling alone accounted for most of them: lemon peel, orange peel, lime peel, sugar, dextrose, fructose, glucose, (other sugars) cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, salt, lemon zest, treacle, brown sugar, sultanas, currants, apple, almonds, apricot puree, walnuts, cherries… and it goes on. Therefore, only extraunusual ingredients were recorded (brandy or cognac) and the amount of chemistry-set ingredients – Morrisons only had the one: Emulsifier (mono and diglycerides of fatty acids); the rest had anything up to 10 (Lidl); the remainder about four to seven. Most of the flour used for the pastry contained vitamins and iron, as is usual nowadays. SALT For those of you who are trying to reduce your salt intake, or don’t notice the difference, the Co-op, Sainsbury’s Bakery and Tesco Value all seemed to have the least – if not none at all – in the pastry. To my personal taste, nothing spoils good bakery products as effectively as lack of salt; Elizabeth David would declare them“insipid”and I agree, but you may not. EXTRACTS FROM NOTES One taster made the observation that all the mince pies would be improved by being heated. Some suggested that they could have
been cooked properly in the first place: “claggy”,“sludgy”and“undercooked”were noted for Mr Kipling, who didn’t score too highly at all. Sainsbury’s Taste the Difference (the most expensive) prompted “something nasty, cloves?”,“strange taste, almost soapy”, and another “strange taste”– so we obviously did Taste the Difference there. But the eventual winner gained much praise: “slightly alcoholic, nice!”,“plain but pleasantly fruity”, “moist filling, crisp pastry”,“deep fill, fruity filling”,“could be prettier, but juicy, sweet”. THE RESULTS The top score possible would have been 120 points: three pies were so close together at the top to render the differences insignificant (93, 92, 91). The next two were rated at 88 and 82, and the following four all scored mid 70s. Poor old Tesco Value came in bottom with just 49 points. But
NAME
COST
scoff not: when the team members were asked which pies they’d buy if 30 boy scouts were coming to tea, everyone chose Tesco Value. Cheapest and no artificial colours, flavouring or hydrogenous fats. And at only 162 calories (do boy scouts worry about that?) they were still winners. When the tasters were asked which they’d buy when entertaining a dozen dear friends with and sherry and mince pies, the choice was unanimously Lidl –
WEIGHT grammes
CALORIES
BOX
one of the top three. And in answer to the last situation of all: “Yourself alone on the sofa watching an old film with a mince pie – but which will it be?”, the answer was again unanimous. Morrisons; the least decorated pie, losing points for appearance, with a taste that more than compensates. Sadly for everyone involved, Waitrose mince pies were unavailable at the time of testing.
chemistry set ingred.
total points
RESULT
COST PER PIE
MORRISONS
£1.11
X
X
PLASTIC
low
93
1
£0.19
M&S
£1.80
58
229
MED
medium
92
2
£0.30
£0.75
57
223
BIG MED
high
90
3
£0.13
TESCO FINEST
£2.00
65
259
POSH
medium
88
4
£0.33
COOP
£1.00
67
263
MED
medium
82
5
£0.17
SAINSBURY TASTE THE DIFFERENCE
£2.50
61
240
POSH
low
77
6
£0.42
MR KIPLING MINCE PIES
£1.50
60
226
MED
high
74
7
£0.25
TESCO TRADITIONAL
£0.89
54
229
MED
high/med
74
8
£0.15
SAINSBURY BAKERY
£1.50
no data
no data
PLASTIC
no data
55
9
£0.25
TESCO EVERYDAY VALUE
£0.65
39
162
PLASTIC
low
49
10
£0.11
LIDL
pack contains 12, so price adjusted
83
Shopping
84
Shopping
We have the largest collection of second-hand ‘vintage’ jewellery in Norfolk Over 3000 pieces in stock 1 vo 0% uc O he FF r
CASH PAID FOR GOLD & SILVER
Watch repairs Jewellery repairs
BRING ALL YOUR UNWANTED GOLD TO US - NOTHING IS TOO SMALL
Pearl & Bead stringing Ring sizing / alterations Insurance valuations All work carried out by expert craftsmen
NORFOLK’S HIDDEN ‘GEM’
Berwick Jewellers Your Independent Established Family Business 64 High Street, Watton, IP25 6AH Telephone: 01953 883448
85
Jobs, Money & Business
Philippa Green WEB DESIGN affo
r
b e s p Da b l e Web s o k e it es
EACH gift in every Will makes a difference Contact Maddy Dodsworth on 01223 204913
01953 887141
Fully qualified and insured.
Domain names eCommerCe & Hosting Web site
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info@philippagreenwebdesign.co.uk www.philippagreenwebdesign.co.uk
Registered Charity No. 1069284
Self Assessment always a headache? Don’t worry, give it to us and get on with running your business. We specifically support the smaller business in all accountancy and tax matters.
Recommend a teacher to us and you will both receive a £75 gift voucher (see website for details)
01440 764430 debby.dyson@keyteacher.co.uk www.keyteacher.co.uk
We pride ourselves on being approachable and accurate
Accounts preparation for sole traders, partnerships & limited companies Tax returns General book-keeping Payroll services VAT T 01953 601405 E info@accountingsolutions.uk.com Unit 4A, Wymondham Business Centre, Eleven Mile Lane, Wymondham NR18 9JL
86
For a free, no obligation initial meeting call us today
Contact Graham Cormack
T: 01953 630 004 E: grahamcormack@taxassist.co.uk Exchange Street,Attleborough, NR17 2AB www.taxassist.co.uk/attleborough
PC or Mac Running Slow? Got A Virus? Need help?
For a friendly and professional IT service for PC & Apple Mac call Joe Richards at
Tel: 01953 718421 & 07928 326008 Email: help@bailiwickit.com Website: www.bailiwickit.com
Smart Money Secrets Now you can get details of your credit score for free
by Andrew Hagger independent personal finance analyst from www.moneycomms.co.uk
I
t’s been well documented that households with a below-average credit rating can pay hundreds of pounds more per year for finance and utilities payments compared with healthy credit scorers. Last year, specialist credit card provider, Aqua, showed that families with a lower credit score were avoiding the need for a credit check by accessing a month-by-month broadband contract. But this was resulting in an average annual charge of £175... expensive when you consider those with good scores only pay around £60 on average. If you’ve never looked at your credit record and score, it’s well worth spending 15-20 minutes to find out what’s on your file. You want to be sure your financial details, such as your balances, limits and payment history are accurate and up to date. Rather than paying £10 to £15 per month with some of the more well-known providers, I’d suggest taking a look at a new service from ClearScore.com where you can obtain a copy of your credit score and details for free.
Tips to improve your credit rating
• Ensure you are registered on the electoral role
otherwise you won’t appear as being listed at your address if a lender makes a credit search.
• Close credit card accounts that you’re no longer
using. Even though your balance may be zero, any prospective lenders will take into account any existing credit limits you have available to you when assessing applications for new finance.
• Having no record of managing credit can count
against you so it’s worth having a credit card and using it a few times each year – if you repay the statement balance in full and on time it won’t cost you a penny, but demonstrates that you are capable of managing credit and will reflect positively on your file.
Your credit record is more important than you probably realise, so next time you’ve got a little spare time, check yours out at www.clearscore.com
This will enable you to check exactly what information is registered against your name. If your details are incomplete or incorrect it could prove more difficult and expensive to obtain credit. Your credit report will list any late or missed payments on your existing loans and credit cards as well as previous borrowing you’ve had during the last six years. Other areas included on your credit file include details of any bankruptcies and county court judgements, as well as the amount you currently owe on your credit agreements together with details of searches and new applications made. Myth-buster
• Third party information, including members of
your family who live/have lived with you, does not appear on your credit file as long as you don’t share any joint financial commitments.
• Other people who have lived at your address previously will not affect your credit score.
87
Jobs, Money & Business
Save £££’s off your home insurance with Priory Insurance Priory Insurance Brokers Ltd is a local, independent insurance broker and has been based in Wymondham for over 25 years. We offer a wide range of quality, affordable insurance products to both personal and commercial clients alike. Owning a home is probably your biggest investment and Priory Insurance can help you protect it:
£20 DISCOUNT - if you take building and contents insurance
• Our team offer a personal, local service, based on your needs and circumstances • We deal with everything from choosing the policy to making a claim • We are independent, so we can offer you quotes from various insurers • We will find the most suitable and cost effective deals for you Please feel free to call us on 01953 602866 or call into the office
4 Fairland Street, Wymondham, Norfolk, NR18 0AN www.prioryinsurance.co.uk
• PC & Laptop - Sales, Repairs & Upgrades • Business IT Support t: 01953 859753 7 Market Street •Web Design & Hosting Wymondham, NR18 0AJ •Wired &Wireless Networking t: 01760 336122 • BusinessTelecoms & CCTV 53 Market Place, • Remote Support & Online Backups Swaffham, PE37 7LE • Ipad /Tablet - Sales & Repairs t: 01366 387970
9 Market Place, Downham Mkt, PE38 9DG
www.angliacomputersolutions.co.uk
88
Co-Educational School Day and Boarding Places for Boys and Girls Aged 2-13 For further information or to arrange a visit please contact the Registrar Mrs Louise Coates Tel 01953 681246 Riddlesworth Hall School (between Thetford & Diss) Riddlesworth, Norfolk IP22 2TA email: ljc@riddlesworth-hall.co.uk www.riddlesworthhall.com Graded Outstanding in many areas following recent ISI Inspection
THETFORD GRAMMAR SCHOOL The small, friendly school that gets results for individuals
OPEN EVENTS
Come and see us at our
Entrance Examinations
Winter Fayre
Saturday 16 January 9.00am - 1.00pm
Friday 4th Dec 3 – 5.30
Prep School Open Morning Wednesday 20 January 9.15am—10.30am
Senior School Open Afternoon Thursday 25 February 2.30pm – 4.30pm
We are a 3½- 18 co-educational independent day school For further information please contact us (quoting ref: VP1215) Tel: 01842 752840 or email: hmsec@thetgram.norfolk.sch.uk
www.thetgram.norfolk.sch.uk
89
Help save nature with an hour and a cuppa Count the wildlife that’s counting on you
M
ore than half a million people are expected to watch and count their garden birds for this year’s RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch in January. The world’s largest garden wildlife survey, now in its 37th year, takes place on 30 and 31 January 2016. Since it began it has provided valuable information about the changes in numbers of birds using our gardens in winter. Continuing declines include starlings and song thrushes, which have dropped by an alarming 80 and 70 per cent respectively since the Birdwatch began in 1979. There is slightly better news for the house sparrow,
90
as its long term decline appears to have continued to slow, and it remains the most commonly spotted bird in our gardens. However, its numbers have dropped by 57% since 1979. Daniel Hayhow, RSPB Conservation Scientist, said: “Last year’s survey saw more than eight-and-a-half million birds spotted, making it another great year for participation. With over half a million people now regularly taking part, coupled with over 30
years’ worth of data, Big Garden Birdwatch allows us to monitor trends and helps us understand how birds are doing. “As the format of the survey has stayed the same, the scientific data can be compared year-on-year, making your results very valuable. With results from so many gardens, we are able to create a ‘snapshot’ of bird numbers across the UK. Once we know which birds are in trouble, together we can ensure that our garden wildlife will be around forever.” As well as counting their feathered friends, the RSPB is also asking participants to log some of the other wildlife they see in their gardens and green spaces such as hedgehogs, foxes, stoats and squirrels, to help build an overall picture of how important they are for giving nature a home. Daniel added: “The threats to our wildlife means that it’s facing tough times. For example it is estimated that we’ve lost more than half of our hedgehogs in the last 50 years. We’re going to include this part of the survey every
year now, enabling us to monitor the distribution of our other wildlife as well as trends in bird numbers.” The survey is part of the RSPB’s Giving Nature a Home campaign, aimed at tackling the housing crisis facing the UK’s threatened wildlife. The RSPB is asking people to provide a place for wildlife in their own gardens and outside spaces – whether it’s putting up a nest box for birds, creating a pond to support a number of different species or building a home for a hedgehog. The Big Garden Birdwatch is just one of the steps you can take to help nature near you. Wherever you live, you can help give nature a home so grab a cuppa and position yourself comfortably in front of a window with a good view of your garden during the weekend of 30 and 31 January. Keep your eyes peeled and take a note of all the birds you see visiting your garden during one hour, and then submit your results to the RSPB. To sign up for your free Big Garden Birdwatch 2016 pack and to record your results, visit www.rspb.org.uk/birdwatch.
91
LOCAL DIRECTORY ACCOUNTANTS Accounting Solutions 86 TaxAssist Accountants 86 ANIMAL SERVICES Thornwood Farm Boarding Kennels 31 Swallow Aquatics 96 Smylee Pets 20 Redwing 20 Eden Meadows Riding Centre 20 Puppies for sale 20 Uplands Way Vets 21 ARCHITECTURE Andrew P R Love 64 Nigel Myhill 61 Keith Day Architect 34 Nick Clarke 12 ARTS, CRAFTS & ANTIQUES Susan’s Work-Basket 58 BATHROOMS AHM Bathing 42 Supreme Bathroom & Kitchen Centre 58 Bathrooms by Design 37 BEDS Diss Bed Ctr & Furniture Warehouse 36 Sound Sleep Ltd 4 BOAT COVERS Classic Covers 44 BUILDERS & HANDYMEN W P Fulcher 33 Day 2 Day Building Services 35 Peter Cole 32 Phil & Co 50 DJA Handyman 12 CARE & MOBILITY Prestige Homecare 70 Saffron Contact Care 74 Mobility Superstore Ltd 81 All Hallows 73 Castlemeadow Care 30 Aspire Homecare 73 CARPENTERS, JOINERS & TIMBER Adrian Bird 54 Complete Carpentry 48 Timber Treatment Services 40 CARPETS & FLOORING Eye Flooring 6 CARS, CARAVANS & GARAGES Highfield Garage 3 Wicklewood Auto Centre 52
Mill House Garage 52 Anglia Caravan Engineering Services 52 Caroline’s Cars 50 Simpsons Motor Group 69 Genus Vehicle Solutions 50 Merc Pro Limited 62 CLEANERS Stuart’s Carpet and Car Care 50 Home-maid 49 Oven Gleamers 62 Ovenclean 44 COMPUTER & WEB DESIGN SERVICES Philippa Green Web Design 86 Bailiwick IT 86 Anglia Computer Solutions 88 John Powell Computer Services 63 CURTAINS, BLINDS, SOFT FURNISHINGS & AWNINGS Norwich Sunblinds 78 Amanda Jones 44 DAYS OUT, TRAVEL & HOLIDAYS Simonds Coach & Travel 22 IC Travel 15 Eastons Holidays 15 Fairhaven 9 Norfolk Brides 10 Wayland Dragonfly Gallery 22 Banham Zoo 28 DENTISTS & DENTURES Marlborough Dental Lab 74 Netherton Dental Practice 95 ELECTRICIANS Auber Electrical 12 Ashley Electrical Services 61 Ian Myhill Electrical 61 Dave Ramstead Electrician 62 Excel Electrical 35 Simply Electric Norfolk 12 FINANCIAL, INSURANCE & LEGAL SERVICES EACH 86 Priory Insurance Brokers 88 FUEL MERCHANTS Larkins Fuel Merchants 57 Fielder Firewood Ltd 56 Shelfanger Firewood 62 Flaming Good Firewood 58 Reeder Timber 40
FUNERALS Rosedale Funeral Home Co-op Funeral Services FURNITURE Diss Bed Ctr & Furniture Warehouse John Doe of Diss GARAGE DOORS Cooks Blinds & Doors GARDEN SERVICES The Garden Enclosure Noble Paving East Anglia Eclipse Home & Garden Services CJ Garden Machinery Broadland Tree Services Lake and Pond Aquatics Hempnall Lawnmower Centre A. Sillett Tree Surgeon Tree Creeper Arboriculture Foundry Plant Centre Nigel Payne Fruit Tree Pruning Arkscape Garden Landscape Services Ed’s Garden Maintenance Lifestyle Paving & Landscaping Tree Fellas Cheery Lane Garden Centre Smart Garden Offices GROUNDWORKS, DRAINAGE & ASPHALT Chris Harmer Breckland Contractors HEALTH & BEAUTY Hearing Care Centre Hypnobalance UK Footsure Totally Thai Coltishall Cosmetic Clinic Beverley Bulmer Esoteric Healing Spa-tacular Amza Beauty Cambridge Diet with John Howard JEWELLERS Berwick Jewellers JOBS Home Cleaning Vacancies Key Education Services Ltd Hales Care KITCHENS Chris Rush
Village People is a trading name of Village People Magazines Ltd. Village People accepts no liability for loss, damage, or difficulties resulting from contracts made through the magazine, nor from errors, omissions or claims made by advertisers. Publication of any entry does not imply a recommendation. Readers must make their own enquiries to establish the credentials of each entry. Magazine, adverts, design, layout and content Copyright © Village People Magazines Ltd. 2008-2015
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53 70 36 2 43 41 65 39 40 44 64 40 40 39 38 40 40 64 64 67 63 46 46
32 34 8 74 74 74 71 76 70 76 73 85 19 86 72 61
Dream Doors 68 Supreme Bathroom & Kitchen Centre 58 Pavels Kitchens 42 Voyager Kitchens 66 LOCKSMITHS Kingfisher Locksmiths 11 MARKETING, MEDIA & BUSINESS Jigsaw Communications 88 OPTICIANS Cecil Amey 80 PAINTERS & DECORATORS BR Decorating Services 12 Derek Hardaker 11 PLASTERERS Chris Bell-Tye 9 PLUMBING, BOILERS & DRAINAGE P&K Plumbing & Heating 54 Barnards Heating Solutions 54 John Rushforth 54 C J Plumbing 54 Else Heating & Plumbing 54 P & D Tank Services Ltd 62 Gasworks (South East) Ltd 61 Broadland ENV Ltd 62 PRINTERS Primrose Press 20 REMOVALS John Ryder Removals 22 Van & a Man 62 RESTAURANTS, PUBS, HOTELS & CATERING The Queens Head, Eye 27 Anglia Catering Equipment 44 Inn On The Green 26 ROOFING Breckland Roofing Ltd 61 PAC Roofing 61
Projects 4 Roofing 15 SCHOOLS & COLLEGES Thetford Grammar School 89 Riddlesworth School 89 SHOPPING Chapelfield 79 Jarrold 78 Puff’s Toyshop 80 Adullam’s Cave 58 SKIP HIRE Norman Wenn Skips 62 SPORT, FITNESS & RECREATION Anne Staffiere Pilates 74 Fit Club Wymondham 71 STONE MASONRY Cutstone Ltd 43 STORAGE John Ryder Removals 22 Attic Access Norfolk 61 STOVES & FIRES Raven Stoves 56 Stove & Fireplace Centre 13 THEATRE Theatre Royal 16 TYRES etyres 50 WATER SOFTENERS UK Water Services 77 WINDOWS, DOORS & CONSERVATORIES C & M Glass 67 Conservatories etc 84 Gr8 Glass 33 Windows Plus Ltd 77 J Moon Home Improvements 65 Garden Room Designs 47 Sash Window Revival 12
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93
Village wanderings Fritton Common and Boudicca’s Way A circular walk taking in a section of Boudicca’s Way and three commons – survivors of a preenclosure landscape. The wider area is crisscrossed with quiet footpaths and green lanes. Park on Fritton Common by the telephone box. 1 An ancient ‘burr oak’ pollard on Fritton Common, which is a SSSI site. There are several natural ponds that support many species of aquatic flora and fauna. A’S ICC UD AY BO W
7 Morningthorpe church with its flint-faced round tower. Heavily restored in the 19th century, featuring Victorian stained glass, tiles and woodwork.
Nor
wic
hR oad
ne ’s La
Edge
d
5
Go you steady!
A’S DICC BOU WAY
T
1
Midd
le Roa
Mill Roa
6
Steppings
Fritton Common
Blacksm
Lane
ith’s Lan
e
4
2
Morningthorpe Green
WOOD GREEN
Telephone box
MORNINGTHORPE
BOU DIC WAYCA’S
‘Mr Perkins’ the pony. His home is on the idyllic Wood Green common.
FRITTON
7
6 Boudicca’s Way is a 40-mile path that links Norwich and Diss; celebrating the legendary ‘Queen of the Iceni’.
Autumn, a time of fruits and amazing colour: yew, holly, teasel, field maple and hawthorn.
d
Distance: approximately 4.7 miles. Using OS Explorer Map 237. Start grid ref: TM 225926.
Fritton village sign
3
ne
a
eL ak
Sn
Woo dL
ane
5 Wood Green is the third of our commons, bordered by cottages and two ‘Wood Green Farms’! The alignment of the south and east boundaries appear to suggest a pre-Roman origin.
Walked in early November… autumn colours, the call of bullfinches, a barn owl hunting, the arrival of that blood-marked thrush, the redwing. Winter draws near!
SHELTON Shelton Spot
2 Slime mould (or ‘dog’s vomit’) can be found on the water meadows. Mature alder trees mark the course of the beck. 3 This ‘lazy’ hornbeam settled for a horizontal existence some 20 years ago, and still thrives.
KEY Walk Other public footpaths Common
4 Morningthorpe, was formerly known as ‘Mourning’thorpe. A line of stately oaks march down ‘The Green’... the village common.
Walked, written and designed by Kevin Parker (keeper.kev@btinternet.com) and Kaarin Wall (kaarin@wizgraphics.co.uk) ©2010.
94
Dr Auriel Gibson
BDS(Hons), MSc, FDSRCS (Eng), MGDS, FFGDP, Cert Impl Dent(Sheff 1999)
Auriel focuses on Complex Restorative Treatment in addition to Dental Implants. As a past President of the British Society for General Dental Surgery, Auriel actively engages in post graduate study.
Netherton Dental Practice Dentures sitting comfortably? Then I’ll begin…..…! Are your lower dentures difficult to wear? Do they rock or come loose when eating? Are you self-conscious when speaking because they move? Do they pinch or are they painful if hard foodstuff gets trapped beneath the fitting surface? Are you one of the many sufferers who wish your lower denture could be more firmly fixed?
If you have answered ‘yes’ to any of the above then read on… Firstly, why does it happen?
Thirdly, What is the solution?
The bone of the lower ridge is often narrow and is only covered by very thin skin. As a result, it can easily be pinched or traumatised.
Two dental implants can be supplied and fitted with ‘locators’.
Secondly, Why do my lower dentures move?
These carefully match the other ends of the locators and together the two parts act like a press-stud.
There is nothing in the lower arch to create any suction and fixatives simply wash out. The denture simply rests on the ridge.
The denture is then firmly held in place and in most situations stops the pinching and the movement.
Just what every denture wearer would love to have! For further information, please contact our helpful team at Netherton Dental Practice on 01508 532226
01508 532226 www.nethertondental.com
The Plain, Long Stratton, Norfolk, NR15 2XG
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