Village People Early Spring 14 Norfolk/Suffolk border by Village People Magazines Ltd

Early Spring 2014

HOMES • GARDENS • OUT & ABOUT • JOBS & MONEY • HEALTH • LOCAL SERVICES

ExplorE

IwNellies W xury

your family history

Lu brellas m u &

Robin Cousins

ICE comes to town

Top eBay tips from Martin Lewis

P lus l l l

Everything you need to know

Ladies who lunch visit Thetford Garden Centre Discover the ‘dirty’ past of Diss Don’t let your ISA allowance go to waste

about Equity Release

l l l

Local book reviews and new films NEW crossword page Seeking out the signs of spring

The independent magazine for village people on the Norfolk/Suffolk border

ARE YOU MISSING ONE OR MORE TEETH?

FAILING TEETH?

HATE WEARING DENTURES? An easy permanent teeth solution for people with missing or failing teeth or denture wearers Using state of the art implant technology we can replace missing or failing teeth or dentures with a permanent fixed solution. You may be just a short step away from eating what you want, smiling again with confidence and living the lifestyle that suits you.

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Call today to see if you are a suitable candidate to attend a no obligation initial consultation for this life changing procedure Botesdale Dental Practice, Holly Close, The Drift, Botesdale, Diss, IP22 1DH

01379 897 176

www.botesdaledentalpractice.co.uk

Run out of steam by the afternoon?

It’s probably not you. It’s more than likely your bed, if it’s seven years old or more. It’s what we call the seven year hitch. Your bed looks okay but it may no longer be helping you achieve the best possible night’s sleep. For more information and great SALE OFFERS visit our website: www.soundsleepbeds.co.uk

MILE ROAD - WINFARTHING - IP22 2EZ Monday - Friday 9:00 - 5:00

Telephone 01953 861177

Saturday 10:00 - 4:00

Sunday 10:00 - 1:00

Find us on the main B1077 between Diss & Attleborough - Look out for the yellow signs! Credit and Debit Cards accepted in store

facebook.com/soundsleepbeds

@soundsleepbeds

CONTENTS EARLY SPRING 2014

Out and About out

8 Good News from our region 13 Ladies who Lunch visit Thetford Garden Centre 15 Amazing diet success 17 Robin Cousins on Ice 19 Latest film reviews 22 Village Notice Board d

Home and Garden

25 Garden Jottings from Ken 29 On your plot – now is the time to go undercover 33 Local walk around Geldeston & Beccles 36 Top tips for exploring your family history 39 Seeking out the signs of spring 41 Diss: no longer filthy, disgusting or oﬀensive! 43 NEW Crossword

57 Martin Lewis talks top eBay buyer’s tricks 45 WIN luxury wellies and umbrellas for the whole family 47 Great recommendations for local businesses 49 Oral hygiene for your pet

Shopping

53 Book reviews, local titles 55 Great money saving tips

Are you looking for a particular product or service? Check out our Local Business Directory on pages 76 & 77!

Heath and Beauty

61 In good health 63 Ancient oriental astrology 65 Suﬀering prompts inspiring global mission

Jobs, Money and Business

69 Don’t let your ISA allowance go to waste 71 Everything you need to know about Equity Release

Services 75 76 77 78

Car review: Mercedes-Benz A Class Find a local business or service Thinking of advertising? Recipe for chicken liver parfait from the kitchens of Relish

BE L BUY OCAL, L Supp OCAL o rt l bu ocal sines commses in our unity

Out & About Bullock Fair Close Harleston Norfolk IP20 9AT Tel: 01379 854310 Opening hours 08.00 - 22.00 Mon-Sat 10.00 - 16.00 Sun

Day Valentine’s bruary Friday 14th Fe

of Harleston

ay Mother’sMD arch Sunday 30th

Helping you spend less...

£3 EACH

1PR/IC2E

E& PAGN WINE CHAM KLING SPAR

TESC

E C I R P TCH MA

We match the price of 100’s of products against Tesco* * We match the prices of 100’s of comparable products against Tesco’s ( excluding promotions). Budgens has selected a number of items which are considered to be everyday items. Terms and conditions apply and are available at www.budgens.co.uk.

Some offers may not be available at all stores, some prices may vary and some higher prices may not have been changed at all stores. The products were on sale at the higher price in at least 38 of our 120 stores. Prices are correct at the time of going to print. Offers not available in selected Budgens Quickstop. E & O E. All products subject to availability. Alcohol sold to 18’s and over only.

Welcome

Sitting in our amazingly sunny office on this very bright mid January day, it’s hard to believe that the weathermen are predicting a hard winter. I just don’t like to hear the phrase ‘wintery showers’ and even worse ‘progressively cooler’! Roll on spring when we can finally get outdoors and into the garden. This issue is all about spring and enjoying the wonderful local countryside that we live in. Feeling lucky? Make sure you enter our fantastic family giveaway and win two pairs of luxury wellies and umbrellas for the whole family. Whether you’re interested in saving money, spending money or releasing money, make sure you read our tips and secrets including everything you need to know about eBay from the award-winning TV and radio presenter Martin Lewis. And for any readers considering making the most of your retirement by releasing funds from your property, our full page guide is a must read.

Lily’s sunny desk

We’ve been chasing round the county this month with our Ladies who Lunch popping over to Thetford and we discover that Diss hasn’t always been the lovely market town it is today! How about this for a good idea on a chilly evening, grab a cup of tea or a glass of wine and settle down in front of the fire with your new magazine and if there’s a pen handy try your hand at our new crossword feature. Your feedback is always welcome so if there’s anything you’d like to see in your magazine, do please get in touch and let me know. Read, enjoy & keep your copy handy over the next two months until we are back in early April.

WIN Two pairs of luxury wellies along with 5 cool umbrellas for the whole family

Lily

Lily Goulder editor@village-people.info

Florence busy at work!

Advertise with us! Reliably delivered by Royal Mail to 45,000 homes every issue. Three editions of Village People 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 0330 660 0325 or send an email to office@village-people.info Early Spring

2014

Early Spring

Early Spring 2014

ABOU ENS • OUT & HOMES • GARD

T • JOBS & MONE

CES H • LOCAL SERVI HOMES • GARDEN S • OUT & ABOUT & MONEY • HEALT • JOBS & MONEY • ABOUT • JOBS HEALTH • LOCAL SERVICE ENS • OUT & SHOMES • GARD

LOCAL SERVICES Y • HEALTH •

WIN

Top eBay tips from

Robin Cousins

WIN

Luxury wellies & brollies

Martin Lewis

Luxury wellies & brollies

ICE comes to town

ExplorE

orE Expl your family

Everything know to you need ity Release

Martin Lewis

Everything you need to know

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films Ladies who lunch s and new l visit Thetford Garden Local book review l Discover Centre ord page the ‘dirty’ past of Diss NEW crossw l Don’t spring let your ISA allowanc the signs of Seeking out e go to waste

nt magazine The independe

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for South Norw

The independent magaz

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Local businessman wins Prince’s Trust Award NEW crossword page Seeking out the signs of spring

P lus l

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rd Garden Centre lunch visit Thetfo Ladies who Diss ‘dirty’ past of Discover the go to waste ISA allowance Don’t let your

k village people

Late Sprin g (April/Ma y)

14th Ma

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The independen

Everything ow u need to kn about Equity

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Villagepeoplemagazines

Release

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village people

Visit our Facebook page

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NEX DEADLT INE

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Top eBay tips from is

P lus

Garden Centre visit Thetford Ladies who lunch Diss ‘dirty’ past of Discover the go to waste ISA allowance Don’t let your

ICE com to town

Martin Lew

ollie & br

Top eBay tips from about Equity Relea

Robin Cousins

ICE comes to town

P lus

E plilyor Exr fam history you Robin Cousinses

IN s W wellie s xury

your family histo

history

about Equ

2014

ffolk border

on the Norfolk/Su

Visit our website to find out more www.village-people.info

Good News FROM OUR REGION ALADDIN’S CAVE FOR ANIMAL LOVERS

NORWICH CHARITY CELEBRATES ITS 25TH ANNIVERSARY

g disorders Beat – the Norwich-based national eatin year. this y ersar anniv 25th its rates celeb charity orting those Since 1989 the charity has been supp family and with an eating disorder as well as their helplines, gh throu on mati infor friends, providing ort groups a wide network of self help and supp training and and online support; providing expert supporting ols; scho and als resources to profession aigning for and encouraging research and camp t. better services and access to treatmen Eating 24 February – 2 March 2014 is National better no is there so , week s enes Awar Disorders know you one some or you if time to contact Beat mation email is in need of help. For further infor t.co.uk edaw@b-eat.co.uk or visit www.b-ea

The Billingford Horseshoes

Bed & Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

OPEN ALL DAY

On the A143 Harleston Road from Scole, only 2 miles from Diss

01379 740414

Local family business, Smylee Pets, has expanded to provide animal lovers of South Norfolk with all they need for their pets. Owner Jayne Benson said: “So many of our customers were asking for horse products that we decided to start stocking horse feed and accessories including clothing. This has been well received by customers who welcome the competitive prices, easy parking and vast range of products. With ever changing trends for pets and their lifestyle, new lines are arriving all the time including Nature’s Menu frozen food and Komodo reptile accessories.” You can visit Smylee Pets on Heath Road in Banham to explore the amazing selection of pet and equestrian food and accessories. www.smyleepets.co.uk

Diss Town

TAXIS

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

(01379)

4,5,6 SEATER VEHICLES

41-41-41 www.disstowntaxis.com

OPTICIANS BECOME POP STARS

SWAINSTHORPE COMES ALIVE THANKS TO THE PIGS Swainsthorpe, a small village 4 miles south of Norwich, has come alive since the Project Ideas Group (PIG) was formed following a major refurbishment of St. Peter’s Church to provide a community centre for the local residents. Formed as a sub group of the Swainsthorpe Community Charity Trust the PIGs consist of 18 members (mainly ladies) of the local community who meet regularly to plan and organise village events and activities. It is not unknown for the odd glass of wine to be consumed at their lively meetings! The most recent event organised was a 60’s night of music, dancing and cabaret at which the PIGs entertained an enthusiastic gathering of local residents who all had a thoroughly enjoyable evening.

Staﬀ from an opticians in Thetford have leant their vocals to a charity single in aid of East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH). The single, entitled ‘I can count on you’ by indie band DryStoneWalls, features backing vocals by the team at Specsavers Thetford. The track will be officially released via iTunes on 1st February, with all proceeds going to the charity which supports families and provides care for children and young people with life-threatening conditions across Norfolk, Suﬀolk, Cambridgeshire and Essex. For more information about the charity single, visit the Facebook page for DryStoneWalls or download ‘I can count on you’ by DryStoneWalls at iTunes.

IF YOU HAVE SOME GOOD NEWS TO SHARE EMAIL US AT editor@village-people.info

QUALITY ANTIQUE FAIR SUNDAY MARCH 9th Open 10.30am until 4pm Admission £3

Dunston Hall Norwich NR14 8PQ (A140 Ipswich Road)

www.norfolkfairs.com 07596 436260 (Next fair Sun 18th May) 9

MASTERPIECES: ART AND EAST ANGLIA PUBLICATION WINS PRESTIGIOUS EAST ANGLIAN BOOK OF THE YEAR AWARD The Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts in Norwich is delighted that Masterpieces: Art and East Anglia has received the prestigious East Anglian Book of the Year Award. The publication accompanies the exhibition currently on view at the Sainsbury Centre until 24 February 2014. Edited by the curator of the exhibition, Ian Collins, Masterpieces: Art and East Anglia reveals the rich heritage of art and architecture in the region gi as well as the East Anglian tradition of producing, nurturing and inspiring artists. Thee book, which is more than a catalogue, showcases each masterpiece in the exhibition and includes over 250 colour illustrations and 125 scholarly essays by 84 distinguished authors. The exhibition, which opened in September 2013, has already attracted over 12,000 visitors. If you missed it, or really enjoyed it, then this wonderful book is a must! Ian Collins, curator and editor

GREAT ELLINGHAM CHIT CHAT CENTRE

A couple of years ago Ann Milner was convinced that Great Ellingham needed a ‘get-together’ centre for lonely folk and anyone who felt as if they were fo cut cut-oﬀ from the local community. “I decided to star start a Chit Chat Centre in our Village Hall 2 years ago and it is a huge success,” she says. “We have at least 60 people who pop in from time to time and every week expect 35-40 attending at any one time. It is a drop-in centre – I stress not just fo for the elderly but for anyone – who fancies a chat with local people. People do knitting and crochet, read the newspapers, have debates and play board games games. There are also some toys for children. Many ne new friendships have been formed and the group suppor support each other. I think every village should ha have a Chit Chat Centre.” Th The Chit Chat Centre is open at Great Ellingham Village Hall EVERY Wednesday morning from 10am to 12 noon. Contact An Ann Milner on 01953 882065 or annmilner@btin er@btinternet.com if you’ve got an any questions.

Nicola Clarke MCFHP, MAFHP

Foot Health Practitioner

Call in for a fabulous selection of plants perfect for wildlife gardens, woodland and bog gardens Our Tearoom serves lunches, homemade scones,

• Nail Cutting • Corns & Calluses • Verrucae • Dry Skin

Friendly and professional service

Home Visits

cakes and ice creams all day Find us just off the A47; 10 miles East of Norwich at NR13 6DZ 01603 270449 www.fairhavengarden.co.uk

• Ingrowing Nails • Fungal Infections • Cracked Heels

Fully Insured, CRB Checked

01379 641 926 Mob: 07759 143 145 Tel:

Good News FROM OUR REGION 71-YEAR-OLD YOGA TEACHER LAUNCHES NEW BOOK

Year’s If you’re struggling to keep your New should resolutions about getting fit, then this and nurse d retire a is r Olive n Eilee you! re inspi still is who m enha Buck Old chiropodist from teaching yoga aged 71. called ‘Yoga: She has just brought out a new book Simple stretches and postures for the less YOGA able’, which contains Simple Stretches and Postures for the Less Able stretches and yoga postures suitable for people who are not as fit and able as they could be or disabled. The book has been published by The Erskine Press in Eccles. Eileen Oliver If you would like to order a copy, call Crispin de Boos on 01953 887277 or visit www.erskine-press.com The book costs £9.95.

MOBILE GYM VISITS HETHERSETT North Norfolk District Council’s mobile gym service will be at Jubilee Youth Club on Backs Lane in Hethersett every Wednesday from 10am until 2pm. There is something to suit everyone from age 16 up and there will be two fully qualified instructors, Wyn and Karle, who will ensure that you have an eﬀective exercise session. They can provide you with a personal programme to suit your needs so if you have never used a gym before there is no need to worry. The sessions are meant to be fun and social and are only £3 per session. If you would like any more information please contact Wyn on 01263 516305 or 07795265671 or e-mail wyn.nurse@north-norfolk.gov.uk

IF YOU HAVE SOME GOOD NEWS TO SHARE EMAIL US AT editor@village-people.info

s at... Come & visit u Sweet Briar Garden Centre Also Sweet Briar Bistro Seed Potatoes Now in Stock OPEN: 9am-5pm (Mon-Sat) 10am-4pm (Sundays & Bank Hols) (evenings by arrangement) Tel. 01953 451655 London Road, Attleborough, Norfolk. NR17 1AY

Sweet Briar Bistro & Gifts Ltd (at Peter Beales Roses)

Out & About

Newquay – Inclusive Mon 24 – Fri 28 Mar Esplanade Hotel *** Newquay £365 Delightful Corner of South Wales Sun 30 Mar – Thurs 3 Apr Ivy Bush Hotel *** Carmarthen £309 Beamish & The Great North Steam Fair Fri 11 – Sun 13 Apr Mercure Hotel **** Washington £169 Historic Chester & North Wales Mon 31 Mar – Fri 4 Apr Beaufort Park Hotel *** Mold £299 Breathtaking Bruges Weekend Fri 4 – Mon 7 Apr Park Hotel **** Bruges £339 Lytham St Annes Sun 6 – Thurs 10 Apr Inn on the Prom *** St Annes £299 RHS Spring Flower Show – Cardiﬀ Fri 11 – Sun 13 Apr Hilton Hotel **** Newport £159 Picturesque Cotswolds & Bristol at Easter Fri 18 – Mon 21 Apr Marriott Hotel **** Swindon £269 Torquay & South Devon Mon 21 – Fri 25 Apr Headland Hotel *** Torquay £299 Bulbﬁelds & Beyond Fri 2 – Mon 5 May Hotel den Haag **** Den Haag £399 Call the Midwife in Historic Kent Sun 4 – Thur 8 May Hilton Hotel **** Maidstone £399 Warners Nidd Hall – Harrogate Mon 5 – Fri 9 May Warners Nidd Hall, Harrogate £359 WWI 100th Anniversary Sat 10 – Tues 13 May Novotel Ieper Centre *** Ieper £459 The Beautiful Black Forest Sat 17 – Sat 24 May Bearen Hotel *** Oberharmersbach £595 Austrian Lakes, Mozart & Mountains Sat 31 May – Sun 8 Jun Hotel Tirolerhof *** St Georgen £759

* NO feeders or interchanges * FREE home taxi collection and return on holidays of 5 days or more * All excursions Included in the price 12

Ladies Who Lunch

THETFORD GARDEN CENTRE Kilverston Road, Kilverstone, near Thetford, IP24 2RL

hetford Garden Centre is not in Thetford itself, but if you can find the A11 (north), you’re almost there. It being almost Christmas, I was urged to go because of the fantastic range of Christmassy stuff on sale there. Only later did I remember that I don’t do Christmas! But I did manage to buy enough strange things to have my credit card cowering in the back of my purse begging for mercy. We hastened to check out the café / restaurant and have coffee. The coffee was large, strong, hot and fresh. Thus revived we went in search of things to buy and there was a huge range on offer! An hour later we met up again for lunch. In addition to the indoor tables, there is a large warm sun room which overlooks the late lamented wildlife park (now extinct) and we sat overlooking it. There is an extensive menu which includes brunches, lunches, salads, soups and baked potatoes plus a specials board. The menu makes much of local farms, homemade cakes and biscuits.

BOTTOM LINE (For two)

Milkshake St. Clements Jacket Spud Panini Sponge pudding Strawberry tart 2 coﬀees

£2.99 £1.99 £6.99 £5.99 £4.49 £3.35 £4.40

TOTAL

£30.20

There is a children’s section oﬀering favourites such as sausage rolls, baked beans and spaghetti, all for about £3, or an Activity Bag lunch with sandwich, fruit, biscuit and crayons (to play with, not eat… although who knows?) for £4. The three of us chose diﬀerent dishes. I was really hungry and went for a jacket potato with chicken tikka which was very tasty indeed and the accompanying salad was plentiful. ‘Old Friend’ chose vegetable soup which was almost a mini veg casserole, and came with 2 small rolls. ‘New Friend’ chose a panini with brie and red onion relish which was comfortingly large and came with salad garnish. We were all delighted with the cheery quick service and quite soon were best friends with the waitress! The restaurant is not licensed so I had a bottle of St Clements which was very citrusy with a gentle tingle on the tongue. My friends had an

ice cream milkshake each which they said were the best they’d ever had. Puds came next and I had seen some of those lovely big open fruit tarts with cream and jelly holding the strawberries in place. I do like a chance to see my pudding before I order, and had no hesitation in choosing this one. Both friends (who are noticeably thinner than I am) ordered blackcurrant and elderﬂower sponge pudding with custard which, although a little small, was delicious. I almost oﬀered to help clear them up, but was rapidly silenced by two hard stares. I really enjoyed this place, it was happy and a bit noisy, but that was hardly surprising considering it was Christmas (well, the end of November which amounts to the same thing nowadays!) There’s good parking, access all round is good and the loos are clean and fresh. It is incidentally a garden centre and I am sure there must have been plants outside. I’ll check - in the summer.

Out & About

IT MAY BE COLD OUTSIDE BUT IT’S WARM IN HERE!

Doesn't chilly winter drag on? But here in Eye we've a warm warm welcome with great home made traditional pub food, blazing fires, outstanding Cask Marque real ales. And there's a lovely garden to enjoy the sunshine …one day soon!

QUEEN’S HEAD, EYE -FREE HOUSE-

Cross Street, Eye, Suffolk IP23 7AB Tel : 01379 870153 www.queensheadeye.co.uk

WARM HOSPITALITY | GREAT ALES | GOOD FOOD 14

Laura No Longer Unhappy Wit h Her Weight

AFTER LOSING FIVE AND A HALF STONE WITH ONE TO ONE SUPPORT

woman who lost 5 and a half stone now has the energy to enjoy go-karting and swimming with her young son. When hairdresser Laura Green, 31, weighed 18 stone 1 lb her feet would ache and her body hurt at the end of a day’s work. She would feel sluggish, unhappy with her weight, tired and so frustrated that she could not wear the clothes she wanted to. Most of all she was tired of not having the energy to play with her young son Brandon, 10, as much as she wanted to on holidays. Now, after losing 5 stone 7 lbs with diet coach John Howard using the Cambridge Weight Plan, Laura enjoys holidays, go-karting and swimming with Brandon.

Laura, from Stowmarket, who now weighs 12 stone 11 lb and who went from a dress size 24 to a 14 in 32 weeks by following a healthy eating plan with Cambridge, said: “I feel amazing and have lots more energy. It is a very big achievement for me as I have never lost this amount of weight before. When someone tells you that you look good it makes you feel amazing.” Award winning diet coach John Howard, 43, lost 7 stone in five months, has kept his own weight oﬀ for 7 years. He said: “You are not lost in a class and receive one to one support. This weight loss programme has been developed by health professionals at the University of Cambridge and has a track record spanning almost 30 years.

Before: Laura before losing 5.5 stone

“There are six diﬀerent calorie programmes with this plan. If you are unhappy with your own weight please contact me and I will support you one to one to be the size you want to be.” Dr Simon Rudland, a Stowmarket GP, said: “You and your consultant work one to one, which is a very important aspect of this diet’s success.” After: Laura celebrating her new look

Please contact diet coach John Howard today on 01379 678416, 0787 231 4653, or by email: john@live-everyday.co.uk For further details: www.cambridge-diet.co.uk/johnh

Get away early in 2014 28 Feb-3 Mar Paignton Winter Warmer 7-9 Mar Mystery Destination Weekend 8-9 Mar War Horse – London Theatre Break 14-16 Mar The Good Old Days 14-16 Mar Liverpool & The Crosby Statues 15-22 Mar Springtime Secrets on Magnificent Lake Garda 17-21 Mar ‘Spring’ into the Beautiful Yorkshire Dales 21-24 Mar Beamish, Durham & Historic York 24-28 Mar Pitlochry, Scotland 24-28 Mar Heart of England 28-30 Mar Mother’s Day Weekend in Lincolnshire 31 Mar-4 Apr Seaside House Party in Cardigan 31 Mar-4 Apr Isles of Scilly Adventure 4-12 Apr Tossa de Mar & Costa Brava 7-11 Apr Lake Windermere, Skipton & Lancashire Hills 11-14 Apr Cardiff Flower Show 12-17 Apr Cruising the Ijsselmeer, Holland

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Out & About

FEB/MAR BOX OFFICE: (01603) 63 00 00

Mon 27 Jan – Sat 1 Feb ANYTHING GOES Amateur production of Cole Porter’s sparkling musical £5.50 - £21.50 Sun 2 Feb RAT PACK LIVE Swingsational tribute £5.50 - £23.50

Mon 24 Feb RUMOURS OF FLEETWOOD MAC All the brilliant hits £5.50 - £22.50

Tues 4 – Sat 8 Feb BARRY HUMPHRIES’ FAREWELL TOUR Dame Edna’s final curtain £6.50 - £47.50

Wed 26 Feb – Sat 1 March BARMY BRITAIN Horrible Histories come to life £5.50 - £16

Sun 9 Feb PUNT & DENNIS Satirical stand-up £5.50 - £22.50

Mon 3 March ESSENCE OF IRELAND Celebration of Irish music, song and dance £5.50 – £22.50

Mon 10 Feb CLASSIC ROCK SHOW Top 10 classic rock albums £5.50 - £22 Thur 13 – Sat 15 Feb CIRQUE BERSERK Daredevil circus spectacular £6.50 - £28

Tues 4 March BRITTEN SINFONIA Bartok, Brahms, Janacek £6.50 - £26

Wed 5 March JAMIE ALLAN iMagician – innovative modern magic £5.50 - £20 Fri 7 – Sat 8 March ENGLISH YOUTH BALLET Magical new production of Swan Lake £5.50 - £21 Mon 10 – Sat 15 March HAPPY DAYS Heidi Range, Ben Freeman, Cheryl Baker star in family rock ‘n’ roll musical £6.50 - £35 Wed 19 – Sun 23 March Robin Cousins’ ICE Dazzling ice show £6.50 - £31.50 Tues 25 – Sat 29 March PROPELLER Award-winning, all male Shakespeare £5.50 - £24 Sun 30 March NORFOLK SCHOOLS PROJECT Local schoolchildren perform opera Free

Barry Humphries’ Farewell Tour

Mon 17 – Wed 19 Feb SIBERIAN STATE BALLET Sleeping Beauty, The Nutcracker, Swan Lake £6.50 - £32.50

Fri 21 – Sat 22 Feb RICHARD ALSTON DANCE COMPANY World class contemporary dance £5.50 - £19.50

Book online: www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk THEATRE STREET, NORWICH NR2 1RL

Robin C ousins on Ice

It could be said that Robin Cousins has done more to promote the sport of figure skating than anyone else in the UK – from Olympic arenas, to stage sell-outs to big screen successes; Cousins is synonymous with the word ice. his s pring, he brings his latest on-stage extravaganza, Ice, to Norwich Theatre Royal. We caught up with him for a chat.

As you might expect, winter is far from a season of hibernation for someone who has built their career around the frozen stuﬀ, but even by Robin’s standards this is set to be a busy one. He will once again be taking up the role of judge on ITV talent show Dancing On Ice, as well as heading over to Sochi to commentate on the Winter Olympics during February. Beginning in January and running all the way through to May will be his new ice stage show, Ice. With 33 years since his last ice stage spectacle, Electric Ice, this is a show that’s been a long time in the making. “I’ve probably had most of the show in the back of my head for those 33 years” he says. “Electric Ice was the first big theatrical presentation that I was able to create and since then I’ve done one or two other bits for other people. I’m now going to be able to bring everything together that I’ve learned in those thirty or so years. “The idea is that I can take everything I’ve learned from this sport that I’m so passionate about, bring it onto a theatrical stage and allow the skating to speak for itself.”

but at the same time, I’ve been very fortunate with my career. “I’ve been able to skate all over the world and now it’s my time to choreograph other people in a way that I would never have done myself. “I want to take the audience on a journey that has no purpose other than to give them pleasure and enjoyment and send them out of the theatre tapping their toes and thinking ‘that was money well spent’.” And with the relentless creativity and meticulous nature of the show’s creator-in-chief, that audience satisfaction should be a certainty for Ice.

Ice runs from Wednesday 19th March to Sunday 23rd March Tickets are available from the Box Office on 01603 630 000 or Book Online

www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk

Ice arrives at Norwich Theatre Royal on March 19-23 and features a cast of 14 international standard skaters handpicked by Robin. These skaters are then arranged and choreographed by Robin to create a stunning visual display of gliding, ﬂipping and ﬂying, all to a stellar soundtrack. “We have a mix of music. Some of it is well-known like Elton John and Lady Gaga, but maybe not played the way you would expect to hear them and might leave you thinking ‘who wrote that?’” Despite all the grandiose stage projects and Dancing on Ice some people will always associate Robin Cousins with his 1980 Winter Olympic Figure Skating gold medal in Lake Placid. But while Robin admits that a part of him longs to get his skates back on, he’s happy to be helping younger performers looking to emulate his success. “I’d be lying if I said that it wouldn’t be lovely if I could still do what I’m going to be asking my skaters to do

Out & About al ide r a e Th ng fo eal m ti set antic this o rom r tw fo

tines

Vale

y Da

Make Mum feel extra special this

Mothering Sunday Restau Ra nt

March 20th

The Perfect Location for Superb Food • Special Events • Conference & Meetings Small Weddings • Accommodation

Using seasonal locally sourced fresh produce every time. Norwich Road, Attleborough, Norfolk NR17 2JX - t. 01953 454363

Visit www.sherbourne-house.co.uk to view our current menu

GREAT DAYS OUT WITH

2014 WEST END SHOWS 02 March Jersey Boys £65 12 March Wicked £65 12 March Charlie & the Chocolate Factory £70 12 March Lion King £75 20 March War Horse £70 GARDENS & GARDEN SHOWS 25 February Anglesey Garden & Cambridge £26 05 April Thriplow Daffodils £25 11 April Kew Gardens & Palace £46 24 April Hampton Court Palace & Gardens £45 22/23/24 May Chelsea Flower Show £75 14 June Gardeners World at NEC £46 11/12/13 July Hampton Court Flower Show £55 30 July Sandringham Flower Show (travel only)£15

For more details, please call 01603 679010 3 Castle Meadow, Norwich, NR1 3PY

SHOPPING 16 February Westfield – Stratford 21 February London Shopper (or Museums) 22 February Bury St Edmunds 14 March France/Belgium via Eurotunnel 15 March Lakeside or Bluewater SHOWS & EXHIBITIONS 12 February The Cheapside Hoard Exhibition 15 February Motorcycle Show 19 February Harry Potter Studio Tour 22/23 February Camping & Caravan Show 6/7/8/9 March Crufts 20/21/22/23 Mar Ideal Home Show 12 April Cake International

WEST END SHOWS, SHOPPING, EXHIBITIONS & MUSEUMS!

£25 £26 £16 £52 £19 £41 £46 £59 £30 £50 £39 £38

See full programme online or ask for a booklet today

Prices include admission where applicable; senior/child prices may apply

Book online: www.chenerylive.co.uk @CheneryLive

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Latest Film Releases

As an antidote to the awards season our resident film buff, Ian Kemsley from Suffolk, has previewed three of spring’s biggest blockbusters.

Noah

Ca America - The Winter Soldier Captain

One of those films which at first glance looks as though it is going to be a resounding failure - you know, like Titanic and Avatar. And then you see that the director is Darren Aronofsky, of Black Swan and The Fountain; and that the lead is Russell Crowe, in Gladiator mode and fresh from playing Superman’s dad in Man of Steel; and the cast includes Jennifer Connelly, Anthony Hopkins, Ray Winstone and Emma Watson. It is a re-telling of the Noah’s Ark – when Noah (Crowe) experiences visions of a catastrophic deluge, he takes measures to save his family. Expect a great deal of CGI spectacle, but also poetry, spirituality and cinematic creativity.

Following the success of Thor - The Dark World we have a further Marvel sequel to enjoy, whilst we wait for The Av Avengers to reassemble in 2015. This time Captain Amer is joined by fellow Avenger Black Widow America (S (Scarlett Johansson), which can only add to the fun. Th first film was if anything slightly serious in tone, with The its Second World War setting, and this may well echo that in mood and style, though brought up-to-date into a post-Avengers world. It seems that the purpose of SHIELD itself is in doubt, and thrilling shenanigans ensue. Robert Redford costars, adding gravitas, and Samuel L. Jackson returns as Nick Fury. The Marvel universe gains from the diﬀerent styles of its component parts, and this one looks edgy, thrilling and just that little bit real.

Release: 30th March See it if you liked: Life of Pi (2012)

Release: 26th March See it if you liked: Marvel Avengers Assemble (2012)

Non-Stop The rebirth of Liam Neeson as an action hero in films such as Taken and Unknown has been one of the great joys of recent years. Here he is a sky marshal on a threatened airliner, so lots of predictable smack-down action should result, with no doubt one or two equally predictable twists and turns. And that is not a criticism you watch a film like this because you want it to do exactly what it says on the tin. On a ﬂight between New York and London, Neeson’s character starts to receive threatening text messages – one passenger will be killed every 20 minutes until $150million is transferred into a secret bank account. Julianne Moore adds class and Michelle Dockery from Downton Abbey joins in, showing that you can maintain your place in the cast of a successful TV series and forge a film career. Release: 28th February See it if you liked: Unknown (2011)

Out & About

Jewellery Repairs,

Commissions & Designs FREE ADVICE FROM ON SITE JEWELLERS

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146 Victoria Road, Caxton House, Unit 6, Diss, Norfolk, IP22 4JN

Open all day everyday to residents & non residents Dinner dances, Weddings, Birthdays/Anniversaries All parties catered for Food served all day every day Sunday Carvery served 12.00-3.00pm Regular live music & themed nights

Tel. 01379 642244

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Village Notice Board ’ t h ig N e h t f o ic s u ‘The M

y presented b no, the shows, ra m op o -s fr zo c si ez u m M n, ristine Brow o

Ch pian erine Hyde, ritone, Cath ba , is rrator av D na , n ie With Ke & Jane Brod 7 1BL. R1 N Village Hall, pm in Caston 30 7. at ch in ar & clude Sat 8th M 953 483889

01 rval ) available on ﬀet in the inte Tickets (£10 d a finger bu an e in w of s glas ch, Caston a welcoming ly Cross Chur ge Hall and Ho In aid of Villa

ct orfolk One A The Third N Competition Playwriting 18 or over

dents aged & Norfolk Resi r the 1st, 2nd open to all spectively fo dicated £100 & £50 re , ju 00 ad £2 as s of ay s pl Prize 3rd winning NODA members of by a panel of tion) cia so As ic at am peratic and Dr O the l na by tio ed Na rm (The will be perfo inning plays 2015 in ty cie So ic The 3 prizew at Amateur Dram ted will be presen Garboldisham & certificates y ph tro a s, The Full ue of eq py ch e co th a n & whe July 2014 l: bmissions 31st ined via e-mai Deadline for su try can be obta En of s on iti y.com nd sk Co d 1@ an en w les Ru june.o

ARE YO U A KEEN GARD ENER AND ARE oP Then come and sp en

EN To NEW IDEA

d an evening with ‘Will Giles’ of The Exotic Garde n, Norwich At St Peters Comm unity Centre, Swain sthorpe On fri 14th March 7.0 0pm There will be a pre sentation and talk by Wi ll Gil who will also be ha es, ppy to answer any questions Tickets £3 which mu st be purchased in advance and refreshments will be available contact Bernadette on 01508 471064

Well BrkeHinotgel Diss

Pa evening at thare ch in aid of EACH

Wed 26th M ts ering treatmen apists will be oﬀ , ge sa as A variety of ther m ot fo logy, Thai such as reﬂexo from makeup ng with advice alo c, et py ra ultants & a ns aromathe co re nicians, skin ca artists, nail tech ms such as hand selling quality ite variety of stalls ellery etc jew , eservatives made soaps, pr la bo m to e/ ffl ra Pay bar and , pm 30 Doors open 7. 650938 Pauline 01379 m fro £5 t’s ke tic

List your local event for FREE on our Village Notice Board Email details to Lily at editor@village-people.info 22

It’s

FREE to

list evenytour !

The Pulham

Orchestra

‘Come and Sunday 9th M

Play’ Day

arch - 10am - 4. 30

P ul ham Market Memor ia

l Hall

Open to player s of all ages an d experience (p having sight-re referably ading skills to at least Grade Come and join 3). us for an info rmal, fun day of music-makin g. New players very welcome. Members of Th e Pulham Orch estra and under-18’s : £10 Others : £15 Refreshments available: a lig ht lunch costin can be ordered g £3.50 in advance; te a, coffee and soft drinks will be provided fre e of cost. for more deta ils and to book a place please visit w ww.pvo.org.uk BOOKING DEA

DLINE SUNDAY

23RD

FEBRUARY The Pulham Or chestra is a Re gistered Charity Charity No: 11 . 17434 Pulham Market, Norfolk

chool colneston S a T f o s d n e fri

Spr ing Fayre 29th March

2-4pm

village hall Tacolneston tivities d children’s ac craft stalls an , orillas’ ts g h en ic m h rw o es Refr o of the N tw e se d an ‘Come

Great Ell ingham & Dis trict

F lower C lub

Jumble Sale o n March 29th Higham Mem at orial Hall from 10.30am Tea and Coffe e

HOOL AM PRE-SC BUCKENH MBLE SALE GROUP JU eshments bola, & refr m o T , ll a st - 12 Noon Cake RCH 10 am A M n st 1 T A S H ROOMS o THE CHURC N E E R G ENHAM OLD BUCK

B O O K SALE & AR T EXH IB I T ION

at Tibenham Co Pristow Green Lammunity Hall ne NR16 1NX Sat 22nd Feb10am – Sun 23rd Feb 10am 4pm – 3pm HUGE SELECTION OF OWNED BOOKS, CD PREVIOUSLY S AND DVDS

Donations of book s very much welco These can be left med. in porch at Railtons (The Street, Tibenham) at any time or at the Comm unity Hall on Friday 21st betw een 10am and 2p Please telephone m. Carole or Julie (01 379 677190) to make other deliv ery arrangements .

: lee Players present

Carleton Rode Jubi

ncil Flats”

“The Sheriff of Cou A pantomime with

a Western touch

To be performed on

20th, 21st & 22nd

the

of Feb at 7.30pm

illage Hall, in Carleton Rode V m with a matinee on

the 22nd at 2p

door nder 16s) on the Tickets £6 or £3 (u 3 789687 95 01 e on ph n More informatio nded in at outside and guns ha (Horses to be tied up n gals) oo sal k out for the the counter and loo

See ya’ll there!

r Militaria fai

isure centre Thetford Le IP24 1JD

23 10 til 2 Sunday Feb 2.50 Admission £

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Garden Jottings from Ken

pring is in the air and a gardener’s thoughts turn to…? Well, obviously I don’t know about you, but nervous anticipation may possibly sum it up for me! Will it be a good gardening year? Will the weather be warm and sunny (but not too hot)? Will there be just the right amount of rain so everything stays fresh, a gentle breeze to help keep mildew at bay, and will those hungry caterpillars, slugs and aphids keep their distance? I should be so lucky… but we can always hope!

slumbers to herald the new season. Don’t worry if you missed planting time, they’re available now in small ready-to-go pots. Snowdrops, crocus, narcissi and others interspersed amongst colourful primroses will soon lift our winter blues whilst providing early nectar for foraging bees and who can resist the charm of magnificent hellebores? Recent breeding has resulted in some stunning varieties of these easy-to-keep beauties.

Gardeners are generally optimistic about the coming season, looking forward to getting outside and tending their plots, lifting their first new potatoes, picking succulent and tasty fruit, or cutting flowers for indoor vases. Many early flowering plants are fragrant to help insects locate them. Easy to grow choices include Christmas box, Witch hazel, shrubby honeysuckle, Wintersweet and beautiful viburnums such as V. bodnantense and V. burkwoodii. Try to plant them near to pathways so you get to enjoy their perfume as well! The natural world gains its own sense of urgency – your garden birds are beginning to pair up and look around for suitable nesting sites. Although breeding may not take place for a couple of months, this is a good time to put up a nest box – or several – since different birds have different housing desires. We have fabulous deals throughout February on all nest boxes (including camera and specialist types) as we once again extend the BTO’s annual National Nest Box Week promotion to the whole month, alongside our year-round great value range of feeds. Out in the borders, naturalised bulbs and those planted in autumn are now pushing their way up from dormant

When the weather is favourable, go outside and do a bit in your garden. You might allow time to prepare the vegetable plot – a little digging keeps you nice and warm. Soft-fruit bushes like gooseberries, currants and raspberries can be planted now and they are still available bare-root now along with many different hedging and herbaceous choices, all offering substantial savings over container-grown stock. If it’s not so encouraging outside, spend some time planning your flower displays or deciding on this year’s edible crops. Summer bulbs, such as dahlias, aren’t always fully hardy, but if you choose them now you can get them off to an early start by planting them in pots and protecting them from frost inside a shed or greenhouse. Once you are in selecting mode, pick up some onion and shallot sets, seed potatoes and a few packets of seeds… and you’re all ready to go, once the weather allows.

Cheers, Ken

from The Garden Enclosure at Banham

full of spring inspriration!

INDEPENDENT PLANT CENTRE & GARDEN SHOP 01953 888043 www.gardenenclosure.co.uk Makin

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Clearing up after the storm S by Joan Garnham, Waveney Tree Specialists

ince late October the UK has been battered by strong winds and heavy rain and this has wreaked havoc with trees. Storms will affect weak points on the tree, which have often been caused by previous wind damage. The tree may remain structurally sound for many years but decay can develop requiring the tree to be removed before it blows down and causes damage or danger.

It is wise to ask a reputable tree specialist to assess any damage. Broken boughs should be trimmed back wherever possible to minimise the risk of wound infection. If the

tree comes down it may be due to either rot in the root ball and/or heavy rain may have softened or washed away the earth. In this area many trees are protected with a Tree Preservation Order (TPO) or are in a conservation area. Permission is needed to work on these trees. Exceptions to this are if the tree has fallen over or is at risk of falling over; however advice should be sought from the local tree officer or tree surgeon before work commences. Trees are particularly suited to surviving quite strong winds so a swaying tree does not necessarily mean a dangerous one. Prevention is better than cure.

Check your trees tr regularly gularly for fo signs of rot (fungi of any kind or splits in the trunk). If these are present you may be able to reduce the risk and rejuvenate the tree by careful reduction in the canopy â&#x20AC;&#x201C; this is best carried out by a qualified tree surgeon. Waveney Tree Specialists would like to thank all of their customers for being so patient during the recent storms; they created 6-8 weeks extra work to make people safe!

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On Your P lot –

Now is the time to go undercover It’s still pretty chilly during February but planting seedlings under glass (or plastic) can give you a great start for the season ahead. A bit of time and money invested now in a polytunnel or greenhouse will give you benefits for years to come. Can’t wait for Spring to come? There are plenty of vegetables that can be started off indoors now.

he days are getting a little longer, green shoots are starting to appear and we’re all just itching to get out in the garden now. Just one problem - it’s still likely to be blooming cold!

Extremes in weather are typical for this month so even if we do have a warmer spell I wouldn’t be in too much of a hurry to start sowing seeds outdoors. It’s at this time of year that having some undercover growing space is a real boon - not least because it’s so much more of a pleasure working in a protected environment, basking in the glory of those few rays of sun, than it is feeling a gale force wind that seems as if it’s come from the arctic! If you don’t have a greenhouse, polytunnel or cold frame then why not think about investing in one now? Get it built in February and you can get a head start on many plants for the season to come. Which is best? Consider the space available - if space is limited then a cold frame, may be a good option. Greenhouses can oﬀer lots of benefits but are generally not a great idea if your garden is also the kids play area and they can be hugely expensive. On the plus side, they are not easy to get rid of so if you’re prepared for a bit of work you may be able to pick up a secondhand one very cheaply providing you are happy to dismantle and move it yourself (try free cycle). We opted for a polytunnel, which was very reasonable in price and gave us several weekends of entertainment

Jobs for Febru

ary

• Erect a cold fra

me, polytunne

• Plant out onio

l or greenhouse .

n sets

• Sow tomatoe

s indoors

• Chit seed pota

toes

• Sow early beet • Plant soft fruit

root and summ

bushes

er cabbages

building it. Follow the instructions carefully, don’t rush it and you’ll need at least two of you when it comes to putting the plastic on. With both greenhouses and polytunnels you need to remember that they can become very hot in the summer, so ensure that adequate ventilation is available. So, now that you have this great new space, what can you plant in it? Early tomatoes can be started oﬀ in pots and if you plant some summer cabbages now you can get them established and benefit from a crop by late spring or early summer. Cucumbers, beetroot, leeks and lettuces can also be sown indoors and if you want to try something a little more exotic why not plant some peppers, aubergines and even a melon? This is also a good month to think about soft fruit. Most fruit bushes, trees and canes need time to get established before you start to get a good yield and it is easy to overlook them in favour of crops that give a quicker return. If you don’t have any fruit growing on your plot how about adding just one type of fruit each year? You could plant raspberry canes this month, or incorporate a gooseberry or blackcurrant bush into your border. If you have pot grown strawberries that have spent the winter indoors then place them outside as they will only ﬂower after exposure to cold weather. Plants that have over wintered outside can be brought in now.

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PUTTING “FLESH ON THE BONES”

Of Your Ancestors

Local historian and professional genealogist, Sarah Doig, offers her top tips for exploring your family history.

t this time of year many people start delving into their family history, spurred on by tales told around the Christmas dinner table by the older generation. For some this turns into an absorbing and obsessive hobby trying not only to extend your ancestry back further in time but also to search for information which will put “ﬂesh on the bones” of your ancestors.

There is an amazing wealth of documentation stretching back many centuries which feature our forebears including parish registers, probate copies of wills, passenger lists, manorial court rolls and business directories, to name but a few. In this article I simply don’t have the space to give advice on all aspects of genealogy. Instead, I thought I would oﬀer three tips to help you on your journey of discovery:

Find out what really happened to your ancestors

An 1861 census enumerator visiting a family

DON’T BELIEVE EVERYTHING YOU READ IN OFFICIAL DOCUMENTS One of the key sources of information about our 19th and early 20th century ancestors are the census returns. My three times great grandfather, John Richards, appears to have suﬀered from delusions of grandeur, since after many decades stating to successive census enumerators his place of birth as either Shoreham or Brighton in Sussex, told the official compiling information for the 1881 census that he was born “on the High Seas”. But I suppose this was from the man who started life (although again according to what he told the census men) as a solicitor and ended his days as a lodging house keeper. He eventually died of gout. So don’t believe everything you read in official documents: the information is only as reliable as the person providing the facts.

FAMILY LEGENDS USUALLY CONTAIN AN ELEMENT OF TRUTH Local newspapers, and sometimes even national ones, can prove invaluable in seeking out the truth about family legends where other documentation no longer exists. I was asked recently by a client to try to find out whether there was any truth in the family story that her great, great grandmother died whilst walking through a snowstorm to the local farm to collect milk. Her death certificate of March 1892 referred to death from heart failure at the age of 47. However, it also crucially said that the death certificate was ordered by the coroner following an inquest into her death. Sadly the relevant records of coroner’s inquests no longer survived – very few do – and so I turned to local newspapers to see whether they had covered the inquest. Indeed they did. The local paper of 12th March 1892 reported that Fanny Brown had been walking with her husband up the footpath to the village, when she had experienced difficulty in breathing and had become too exhausted to continue. Her husband carried her to a nearby farm where she had died before the doctor arrived. I then checked the Meteorological Office’s archive of monthly weather reports to see whether there was any snow in March of 1892. Sadly none was reported. So although my client’s great, great grandmother did die after being taken to a nearby farm when she had become ill, the old family story of her dying in a snowstorm on her way to collect milk was largely untrue. Many of us have such stories handed down over the generations and most of these turn out to have an element of truth in them.

BE PREPARED FOR SOME SHOCKS The centenary this year of the outbreak of the First World War will no doubt see a surge in people wanting to know more about their ancestors’ war service. I had a client who wanted to know whether any records existed of what her grandfather did in the war: as with many others who survived the horrors, he had never spoken about it to her when she was a child. Sadly a large number of service records for those who served in the Great War were destroyed in the bombing of London during the Second World War. Happily,

rld War e a First Wo Do you hav ily? m fa r u yo soldier in

though, for my client’s grandfather I was able to locate a number of papers which comprise his pension record. It appeared from this file that he had actually joined the army some years before the war but had been discharged, unfit for duty, in 1917. His record lists each posting her grandfather had had during his army career, as well as promotions from private through to corporal. Further on, however, the reading became rather uncomfortable. It appeared that some time between enlistment and discharge, this married soldier acquired a tattoo on his right forearm bearing the name “Lizzie”. This was neither his wife’s nor his daughter’s name…. And the worse shock was still to come in the final few pages of the pension record which details the army doctor’s comments following a medical examination. He concludes that the soldier’s serious deterioration in his eyesight was most likely to have been caused by contracting syphilis. So the moral of this last tale is that when delving into your family history, you might find some unwelcome facts. Nevertheless if you are prepared for this, I am sure you will not be disappointed with the wonderful details you uncover which certainly put “ﬂesh on the bones” of your ancestors. If you would like to discover more about the history of your family or house then Sarah can help. Give her a call on 01379 890215 or visit www.ancestral-heritage.co.uk to find out more.

Home & Garden FREE survey & quote

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for all your glazing needs • energy rated double glazed units at affordable prices • glass cutting service • window frames – upvc & wood • measure & fitting service available • open to the public • you can buy just one sealed unit

01953 888606 gsultd@btconnect.com www.glasssealedunitsnorfolk.co.uk 7.30am to 5pm Mon to Thursday 7.30am to 4pm Fri Unit 21 Oakwood Industrial Estate, Harling Road, Snetterton, NR16 2JU

Seeking out the signs of spring If you are weary of winter, fear not! This issue, Jon Tyler shows us where to look for the first signs of spring.

ebruary with its dark days and cold winds can give the impression that winter will be endless; but fear not! There are already signs that spring is just around the corner so take the opportunity to get out and get acquainted with them.

The early months of the year are when plants ready themselves for the leap into spring growth but some are out of the starting blocks more quickly than others. Nettles can be found as small leafy plants poking up amongst last year’s stems and detritus. They are the easiest of spring greens to identify being just as stingy when young as when fully grown. However at this stage they are also at their best for eating with the whole shoot being tender enough to enjoy lightly steamed.

Blackthorn (also known as sloe) heralds the passing of winter, at least in spirit if not in the transformation of the temperature. In true celebration style, blackthorn lifts the countryside mood with its champagne froth flowers popping up along hedgerows and woodland margins throughout February and March. As with other species in the Prunus family the flowers appear before the leaves. Hazel is another tree that gets going in February. Look out for its catkins which swell into golden lambs tails, releasing puffs of yellow pollen. Like many trees, hazel has separate male and female reproductive structures rather than a flower which contains both. You will have to get close up to see the tiny green female catkins with crimson tufts at their tips. There is an old saying that March comes ‘in like a lion and out like a lamb’. At least it arrives with a splash of glorious sunshine-yellow colours as flowers appear across fields, hedgerows and woodlands. Primroses and daffodils are the most prominent examples, but coltsfoot and lesser

celandine are also just as beautiful if somewhat smaller. But the grandest of the spring ﬂower pioneers is the marsh marigold. Growing in meadows and on stream edges, it’s also known as kingcup and with some justification as it’s truly the monarch of the buttercup family. With bare fields and less plant cover, early spring is the easiest time to seek out hares. Whether it’s spotting them lying up in a low growing crop field maybe with just their ears on show; or catching them indulging in their amazing boxing antics, a pair of binoculars will be handy as they are easily disturbed. It used to be thought that the ‘boxing’ pugilists were males sparing for territory. It now transpires that this strange ‘mad March hare’ behaviour actually involves female hares fending oﬀ amorous males. As well as being ace at sparing the brown hare is also our fastest wild land mammal, capable of speeds in excess of 45 mph, presumably for when they can’t box their way out of trouble. www.wildforwoods.co.uk

Alexanders is another early riser and could almost be the county plant of Norfolk and Suﬀolk such is its abundance anywhere near the coast. Its robust stems seem to appear in defiance of the cold with luxuriant glossy green leaves and pungent celery/ aniseed tinged aroma. A pot herb that arrived with the Romans, it has long since escaped into the wild. If you’re sure you can identify it correctly, the leaves and stems can be a tasty and substantial seasonal treat.

Home & Garden

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Solid wood furniture in Oak, Ash and Pine all ready assembled

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FoR all youR REmoval & SToRaGE REquiREmENTS

We offer a simple low cost solution to your storage needs. Our new steel containers with thick plywood ﬂoors and high quality door seals ensure that your goods come out in the same condition they went in. COMPETITIVELY PRICED NEW CLEAN DRY UNITS WITH EASY ACCESS MINIMUM CONTRACT OF ONLY ONE WEEK BUSINESS AND DOMESTIC USE ENTRY 7 DAYS A WEEK 24 HOUR CCTV

REmovalS & HouSE ClEaRaNCE SPECialiSTS

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

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Est 1987

3 White Horse Street, Wymondham, Norfolk NR18 0BJ

Diss: no longer filthy, disgusting or offensive! Diss hasn’t always been the lovely market town it is today, says Glynn Burrows, owner of Norfolk Tours.

n 1850, a report into the sanitary conditions of the inhabitants of the town of Diss was published and it makes sobering reading.

The mere was, at that time, about five acres in size and up to twenty feet deep. It was exuding a vapour which was caused by the amount of animal and vegetable matter in it and chemical analysis proved that it was extremely unclean. The author of the report explains that the town had many places where “disease and death had accompanied the accumulation of decomposing filth” and he goes on to give lots of examples of where the disposal of waste was making the town a very uncomfortable place to live.

Norfolk’s best with a great deal to oﬀer including the many independent businesses and the pleasant surroundings. I was in town for the Battle of the Bangers and it was a lovely day, exploring the shops, visiting places of interest and, oh yes, eating the sausages! One place, very worthy of a visit next time you are in the area, is Diss Museum which is in the Market Place next to the Church. The Museum is not open till the spring but I am sure the volunteers who run it would welcome a hand. Why not contact them to see if you can help? dissmuseum@lineone.net , The Museum, 11 Market Hill, IP22 4JZ or call (01379) 650618

It was also a very dangerous place for children especially, as in 1848, nearly 35% of all deaths were of under-5s. In the report, the words which are often used include: filthy, disgusting, oﬀensive, stinking, stagnant and injurious. There were 13 almshouses which were beautifully situated, with a southern aspect and green lawn in front but at the back there was a foul ditch, about six yards wide, full of the waste from eight cottages. A slaughter-house allowed all of its waste to run down the surface of Church Street. The Saracen’s Head had a large pool of filth, twelve feet in diameter, in the yard and Shelfhanger Lane was a colony of cottages surrounded with everything that is pestilential. Thankfully, that report was written in 1850 and, today, the town bears absolutely no resemblance to the description above! In 2014, it is one of

You don’t have to travel far from Diss to find places to visit to satisfy every interest: in Eye, you can find a motte and bailey castle to explore, in Wingfield, there are the ruins of a medieval manor house and you can spend a great time exploring the fantastic nature reserve at Redgrave & Lopham fen. So don’t forget about what’s right on your doorstep! There are so many places to visit without using much petrol and you will find that many attractions are free to get in too! By the way, I didn’t notice any vapours rising from the mere when I was in Diss eating those delicious sausages and I can’t say that any of the words used in 1850 applied to the beautiful town I saw that day either! Discover more of Glynn’s fascinating local stories or book a tour at www.norfolk-tours.co.uk

Home & Garden

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The Coal Yard, Old Buckenham, Norfolk NR17 1PE

Tel 01953 861145 www.coalandlogsnorfolk.co.uk

COAL & SMOKELESS FUEL 50kg open sacks or 25kg pre-packed bags

CROSSWORD Across 1. Hoarded wealth (8) 5. Referee (6) 9. Soft leather shoe (8) 10. Soft (6) 12. Characterized by unrest (9) 13. Glacial ice formation (5) 14. Radiate (4) 16. Maybe (7) 19. Rain slicker (7) 21. Dense (4) 24. Out of place (5) 25. Indebtedness (9) 27. Dullard (6) 28. Dark rum from Guyana (8) 29. Detective (6) 30. Cassock (8)

Down 1. Found in ketchup (6) 2. Accompany (6) 3. Muddle (5) 4. Attire (7) 6. Vortex (9)

7. Interior (8) 8. Physical exertion (8) 11. Stair (4) 15. Improvised (9) 17. Thick dark syrup (8) 18. Height (8) 20. Void (4)

21. Sharpshooter (7) 22. Fodder (6) 23. Dictator (6) 26. Lifeless (5)

CPL DISTRIBUTION Great Prices on coal, smokeless fuels and logs Delivered to your door Also available from our cash and carry Open Mon-Fri 8am-4pm

01728 860364

CPL Distribution, Oak House, Higham, Bury St.Edmunds. www.coals2u.co.uk

Home & Garden DAVE RAMSTEAD - ELECTRICIAN • 25 Years’ experience • Competitive no VAT charged • Norfolk & Suﬀolk covered

Call Dave on 01379 688445 or 07952 287975

djramstead@gmail.com

Newman & Co Chartered Accountants & Registered Auditors have been serving local businesses and individuals in East Anglia for over 20 years. We oﬀer a range of services to suit our clients’ individual needs that include: * Tax returns advice and planning * Preparation of annual accounts * Bookkeeping services and management accounts preparation * Business start-up advice * Payroll services including real-time processing * VAT returns and advice We provide an efficient, friendly and competent service through our professionally qualified staﬀ and believe that there is a real value in developing long-standing professional relationships with our clients.

Please contact us to arrange a free initial consultation.

Be prepared for spring showers with ay our great family giveaw This time of year can be very hit and miss with the weather changing from springtime sunshine one minute to winter sleet and snow the next.

Living in the country everyone needs a good pair of wellies so we’ve teamed up with Jileon, the specialist retailer of wellington boots to offer this great family giveaway. Whether you’re after funky boots, wide calf wellies or the ‘hard to find on the high street’ boots, they have it all. And who knew there was so much choice when it comes to umbrellas; walking, folding, designer, luxury, golf, the list goes on. We spoke to family-owned business The Umbrella Shop, who specialise in quality umbrellas. They’ve fast become known as the ‘one stop brollie shop’.

The Prize

We have two pairs of gorgeous extra wide fit Polka-Dot Wellies worth £49 each. Their double gusseted patented design will easily accommodate calf circumferences of 50cm and are available in Multi

Coloured Polka Dot, Red and White Spots, Pink Floral or Midnight Blue designs.

PLUS

A range of five umbrellas for the whole family including the hugely popular Hunter ladies bubble umbrella with yellow trim and matching handle worth £25. These birdcage umbrellas or bubble umbrellas are fantastic, and are very popular with people all over the world due to their transparent high grade PVC cover for ease of vision when walking. The bold Hunter logo and a wide fabric band gives stand out appeal. The steel shaft and fibreglass ribs are both strong and light, making this umbrella easy to use. The handle is solid acrylic, and the Hunter emblem features on the poppers and also on the fixing band.

WIN WIN WIN To be in with a chance of winning this great family giveaway worth over £200 simply send us an email including your name, address and daytime telephone number to

competition@village-people.info Closing date for entries is Monday 31st March and the winner will be chosen at random. Usual Village People rules apply.

Check out these great websites as both British companies aim to provide fantastic customer service, and if you need advice, you can call or email them. You may not be able to see them in shops, but they are truly passionate about how important customer contact is, so don’t be shy and call them if you need help! www.jileon.com and www.theumbrellashop.co.uk

Home & Garden

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Fast and friendly service

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Got a water leak? Old lead piping need replacing? We carry out all work to the highest standards causing minimal impact to your driveway or garden using thrust boring methods

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Supporting Local Business GREAT RECOMMENDATIONS FROM YOUR AREA

Village Peop

READERleS

RECOMME

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.

NORFOLK BRIDES

en in the “Having previously be ry I have ust ind ing dd we al loc team not watched Dalia & her vide only grow but also pro t jus t no e vic ser tic a fantas t to to Brides & Grooms bu looking wedding businesses es. elv ms the te to promo Dalia`s passion for the evident to see & I wedding business is nd Norfolk Brides” me om can highly rec

MALTHOUSE SECURITY Malthouse Security have a great number of highly skilled staﬀ who are always ready to help and go that extra mile. I have had the pleasure in using their services many times and will carry on doing so.

Mr H,Eastside Property Services

Mr R, Norfo lk

THE GARDEN ENCLOSURE “Had to write to tell you how superb The Garden Enclosure is in Banham. Ken and Angela have a really wide selection of very healthy vigorous plants. Everything is very competitively priced and top quality. There are some great gardening gift ideas and all the tools and compost and bark type of things too. They have a world of knowledge and are always so friendly and so helpful with lots of advice. Makes us wonder why we ever bothered to go all the way into Norwich when everything anyone needs for the garden is right there on our doorstep.”

Mr & Mrs G, Banham

AMANDA PILATES “I know that parts of my body are much stronger and more ﬂexible from attending the class. Come and improve your core strength and meet some new people.”

Helen from Suffolk CAMBRIDGE DIET WITH JOHN HOWARD “We were unhappy with our weight but John was always there for us oﬀering kind one to one support. We were inspired that he has been a diet coach for almost ten years, and felt confident because he works from a GP health centre as well as from his home.”

Trevor & Cathy from Suffolk

Would you like to recommend a service which you found in Village People? If so, get in touch! YOU CAN CALL US ON 0330 660 0325 OR EMAIL ofﬁce@village-people.info

Home & Garden First for Riding We believe that everybody should have the chance to enjoy horses, regardless of age, ability or background

COMPETITIVE PRICES • SPECIAL DISCOUNTS £10 TASTER SESSIONS • And much more . . .

EYE EQUESTRIAN CENTRE, CLINT FARM, CLINT ROAD, EYE IP23 7JE 01379 870303 info@eyeequestrian.co.uk www.eyeequestrian.co.uk

I’M HELPING TO BEAT CANCER, YOU CAN TOO! Ride a bike, go for a hike, sing a song, knit-a-thon. It doesn’t matter what you’re good at, there’s a way to raise money and help save lives. One day we will beat cancer. You can help make it sooner. Register for a free fundraising pack:

First class treatment!

Uplands Way Vets is a long established practice with clients throughout Norfolk and Suffolk. We care for all types of animals including household and exotic pets, farm animals and horses. Call 01379 642 865 for further information.

Uplands Way Surgery Diss 01379 642 865 Connaught Surgery Attleborough 01953 454 945 George Hill Surgery Stanton 01359 251 730

For a full list of services visit www.uplandswayvets.co.uk

Cancer Research is a registered charity in England and Wales (1089464), Scotland (SC041666) and the Isle of man (1103).

YCA4POSBIK

Call 08701 60 20 40 Visit cruk.org/fundraising

New Year, New Smile! The Importance of Oral Hygiene for Your Pet

magine how your teeth would look and how your breath would smell if you didn’t brush your teeth regularly – it’s the same for your pet. This spring, Tilly Morgan from The Old Golfhouse Veterinary Group shares some tips for keeping your pet’s mouth healthy.

Unless you’re regularly providing some form of dental care you are neglecting an important part of pet care. If plaque builds up and is left untreated your pet may develop the following symptoms; 

Offensive breath



Red, swollen and painful gums,



Tartar



Loose teeth



Difficulty eating

Periodontal disease can have serious consequences on your dog’s general health such as eﬀects on liver, kidney and heart. You will be surprised to read that by the time most dogs are 2 years old they have already developed dental problems.

             

Regular plaque removal at home will prevent the start of periodontal disease and tooth-brushing is considered the single most eﬀective method. It is best to begin brushing from a young age, usually when a puppy or kitten is between 8 and 12 weeks although it is never too late to start, even with geriatric pets. There are also several eﬀective chews available on the market and one that we recommend commend is a Stag Bar which is a natural, long lasting antler chew that cleans the teeth whilst also being kind to sensitive stomachs. It is important tant to use products that are specifically designed for pets.

The Old Golfhouse Veterinary Group are currently offering free dental checks with their nurses. the symptoms relating to periodontal disease then the first step would be to consult your vet.

Diet can also be a major factor in the development of plaque and tartar. Generally, dryy food is best for the removal val of plaque. It is thought that canned foods may actually contribute to plaque build-up and subsequent periodontal disease. If you are at all concerned that your pet may show signs of

                    

Home & Garden Do You HATE IRONING? Don’t get De-Pressed

Efficient, friendly, professional service with a quick turn around. Opening Hours Mon-Fri: 9am to 5:30pm Sat: 9am to 12 noon

Ironing • Dry Cleaning Laundry • Alterations Repairs

Ironed 4 U, 28 Victoria Road, Diss, Norfolk IP22 4HW Phone: 01379 643291 email: ironed4u-diss@hotmail.co.uk

Anglia Chimney Sweeps • Fully certified and insured • Smoke draft tests as standard • Triple-filtered vacuum • No mess, no dust, no fuss • Insurance-recognised safety certificates

Tel 07711 458575 Or 01379 644770

Pressed to go Established family-run ironing & dry cleaning business Local Delivery

Tel Karen: 01379 652767 or 07984512275 www.pressedtogo.co.uk

R. Oldfield

Carpenter and General Builder -Property Maintenance - Carpentry and Joinery - Plastering and Rendering - Kitchen Fitting - Patios, Paving and Decking - Replacement Doors and Windows -Roofing, Roof repairs - Fascia and Barge Board replacement - Guttering - Painting and Decorating - Timber Flooring Wall and Floor Tiling - Extensions and Renovations - Conversions and Restorations - Timber Framed Buildings - Fencing

Free estimations, advice and written quotations upon request

www.angliachimneysweeps.co.uk

Call 07979 361 682 or 01379 783 458

Architectural Technologist

KITCHEN SENSE of Harleston

62 London Road, Harleston, Norfolk IP20 9BZ

Nick Clarke mciat

• • • • • •

Partial or Complete Service Extensions & Alterations Conversions & New Build Work on Listed Buildings Eco-Friendly Design Outdoor Design

Tel.01379 898831

Fitted Kitchen Specialists

Tel: (01379) 852592 Fax: (01379) 854411

web site: www.kitchen-sense.co.uk email: staff@kitchen-sense.co.uk

Home & Garden

SELF STORAGE near Diss

Clean, Dry Storage Barns and 20ft Steel Containers All types of storage considered Business, Domestic, Caravans, Cars, Furniture, etc. Owners on premises Reasonable prices

Please call 07771 780 949 Deer Stalking in England Ltd.

“OUTSTANDING” Independent Schools Inspectorate

Fully qualified and insured staff carry out Deer census and management. We can advise on fencing and live capture, census and population dynamics. Whatever problem you have please contact us via our website or phone Mark on 07788 961838

EE N

N MA

THE

www.stalkinginengland.co.uk

e Surge

Tree surgery • Hedgelaying Hedge and woodland planting•Coppicing •Hedge cutting•Brush cutting•Pruning

Qualified & insured • Free advice & quotation Traditional Hedgelaying – courses and tuition

Kevin Parker

Tel: 07824 534695or 01508 480780 Email: keeper.kev@btinternet.com

An independent, co-educational day and boarding school for ages 5 - 18

OPEN DAYS

1st March * 10th May * 21st June 10.30am - 2.00pm or Call us to arrange a mutually convenient time to visit Providing additional support for children who find learning difficult

Quidenham, Nr Norwich, Norfolk, NR16 2NZ Tel: 01953 887 217 admin@neweccleshall.com

www.neweccleshall.com

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There are three editions of the magazine, allowing you to target a speciﬁc area or reach all 45,000 homes! For a detailed map showing all 190 villages visit www.village-people.info Early Summer

Early Spring 2013

ABOUT ENS • OUT & HOMES • GARD

• JOBS & MONE

Have a field day with Mum at Chapelfield Pages 58-59

• LOCAL SERVIC Y • HEALTH

HOMES • GARDEN S • OUT & ABOUT • JOBS & MONEY • HEALTH • LOCAL CAL SERVICES

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Winter Warmers

g 9 to 5cal Workin musi Plus A fabulous new

Ladies Who review from our q Restaurant reviews book and film s q Latest your money in East Anglia q Local food choice of activitie q Top tips for managing spring with our q Have fun this from our region q Good news

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Make your business everybody’s business in Village People Magazines r lk/Suffolk borde e people on the Norfo t magazine for villag The independen

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Robert Toppes Richard Matthew

Norfolk and Norwich Heritage Trust Paperback 9780951787830 £12.00

BOOKS

Robert Toppes, born about 1400, was the builder and owner of Dragon Hall in Norwich. This book tells of his trade and financial interests, the development of his trading hall and the donation of a magnificent stained glass window to St Peter Mancroft Church. It records time as sheriﬀ, mayor and MP, also his family life and late marriage into the landed gentry class and his close association with the Paston family. His life is also the story of 15th century Norwich and the people who made it England’s second city.

Serendipity Joe Larter

Fastprint Paperback 9781780356792 £9.95

View your region from a different perspective with this fascinating selection of local titles from Roy Futter of Jarrolds Book Department. John Patchett is regarded as one of the country’s leading exponents in the art of pastel painting and his love for the vibrancy and freshness of the medium is a hallmark of his work. While his subjects are grounded in the landscapes of East Anglia, other locations include Australia, New Zealand and Japan. Over a hundred paintings are featured, providing an overview of the artist’s scope and versatility, while an introductory essay by Adrian Hill gives a glimpse of his art college years through to the present day.

This is a must read ad for fo millions of Pleasurewood Hills fans who, over the last 30 years have enjoyed the creation of the author Joe Larter. This is a very personal account from an exceptional man. Anyone who has worked with or been associated with him will recognise a “whirlwind” who doesn’t take no for an answer. Joe believes his life has been a happy accident and this book will certainly be a pleasant surprise. Highly recommended.

Painting From The Heart John Patchett

Halstar Hardback 9781906690519 £24.99

Shopping A SUPERB RANGE OF QUALITY GEAR FOR SHOOTING AND OUTDOORS

Le Chameau, Musto, Aigle, Chrysalis,Barbour Sporting Gun Sales, Cartridges, Accessories, Gifts and a wealth of advice from experienced staff.

www.trulockandharris.com Ore Trading Estate • Framlingham • Suffolk • IP13 9LL Tel. 01728 724776

Saving Money

Local lady, Jo Withey runs www.save-money-guide.com, a website bursting with money saving ideas. This issue, she gives us some tips about losing weight and looking good without breaking the bank.

Now that 2014 has settled in after the festivities do you have a couple of guests refusing to leave after the party? Unfortunately many of us have met Miss Excess Pounds. She encourages us to produce curves in all the wrong places. She is quite happy with her rolypoly look but we can do without her company. To deal with this problem, have you considered taking up vegetable gardening? This new hobby will get your body working and you will have the added bonus of producing home-grown food. You’ll save money and get fitter at the same time!

nce you’ve got rid of Miss Excess Pounds, it’s time to meet Miss New Clothes. But looking good doesn’t have to mean an expensive trip to the shops. Shopping on a budget is all about value for money and buying what you need not what you want. Here are my top tips:

• If an on-line retailer is offering return of goods free of charge, why not order two sizes so that you can gauge the best fit and return the unwanted one. Sneaky – maybe, but you would have this choice in a shop • Have some classic items in your wardrobe – a well cut pair of trousers, a classic shirt and a well-tailored jacket. These can be dressed up or down in a flash by the addition of a scarf, or different shoes or handbag

Here are my top tips for losing weight without hitting the gym: 1. While the adverts are showing on TV get up from the sofa and do a few stretching exercises. You don’t need to buy expensive weights - hold a can of baked beans in each hand instead! 2. Don’t drink fizzy drinks, drink water instead. It is cheaper, contains no sugar and is better for you. 3. It’s so important to eat your five fruit and veg every day but don’t waste money on vitamin tablets – nothing beats the real thing. Taking this problem right back to basics, there is unfortunately only one real way to lose weight –

eat less and move more!

• Remember ‘high fashion fads’ disappear faster than they appeared. If you must have such an item, make sure it comes from a ‘budget’ outlet and does not break the bank. When you discard it, send it to the charity shop and let someone else experiment on the cheap • Don’t be in a rush to use a tumble dryer for drying clothes. Not only is this item a very high user of electricity, it also wears clothes out faster than normal • Guess who attended a board meeting smartly dressed entirely in ‘finds’ from the local charity shops?

For more great money saving tips, including how to organise a low-budget wedding, visit www.save-money-guide.com Be prepared to be amazed at the amount of money saving tips available to you. Enjoy!

Shopping

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top eBay buyer’s tricks…

The ubiquitous giant online auction site eBay may seem a relatively simple beast. Yet beneath the shiny shop front there are a host of hidden secrets enabling you to pay less.

t all stems from the fact eBay’s a mammoth marketplace with millions of goods and hordes of buyers competing for the same items. It’s all too easy to get sucked into bidding wars, with your finger quivering on the mouse, and then just overpaying at the last minute. Yet a host of hidden tools and websites allow you to hone in on hidden uber-deals overlooked by rival bidders. Here are my top eBay buyer’s tricks…

Exploit speiling mistakes Typos and eeroars on eBay are incredibubbly common. Of course, that meanz fewer people searching for things, so the prices you get are rocc bottom. A host of mistake spotters, such as www.fatfingers.co.uk, www. goofbid.com and www.bargainchecker.com trawl eBay for all possible spelling mishtake combinations which have lower prices. While we’re on it, if you’re selling remember to use spell check. Find collection only bargains near you From designer sofas to skis and scooters, sellers often specify items are ‘collection only’. This means fewer competing bidders and serious local bargains. You can’t yet search for this on eBay, but if you go to my eBay Local Deals Mapper tool www. moneysavingexpert.com/localebay it finds these bargains for you and maps how close they are. There’s also an Android and iPhone app version. Results can be powerful, such as this from my site user Jen_Jen1985: “Had been looking for a double buggy, but most ended up selling for around £40. I found one via the Local Deals tool and ended up winning it for £1.24!” Bag no-bid 99p items Often sellers start auctions at 99p or less, hoping a tug of war will break out between buyers. Many items go unspotted and stay at these super-low prices. It’s possible to scour eBay just for these with 99p spotter www.lastminute-auction.com.

Do you need it? Before I go to much further with this, just a quick word of warning about not getting carried away with bargains. It’s worth following my money mantra before you spend cash. If you’re skint, first ask yourself “Do I need it?, Can I aﬀord it? Have I checked whether it’s available cheaper elsewhere?!” If the answer to any of those is no, don’t buy it. Find auctions closing in the dead of night Listings that finish at anti-social times often get fewer bids (a warning for sellers there too). Pick a time slot and a www.baycrazy.com’s Night Time Bargain Searcher cruises for these vampiric bargains. If you don’t fancy burning the midnight oil, combine this trick with auto-bidding tools below, which can bid on your behalf while you’re deep in the land of nod. Be an eBay sniper… Spotted something you want to buy on eBay? Bid too early and rival buyers bid back, forcing the price upwards. Sniping tools auto-bid for you in the last 10 seconds to seal cheaper deals. Top free auction snipers include Goofbid.com and www.gixen.com. A word of warning though - you need to give sniping sites your eBay password for them to work, which is a security concern. If you do sign up, never use the same password for eBay as you do for other accounts such as banks or email. Don’t assume it’s cheapest because it’s on eBay Never assume it’s a bargain until you’ve checked prices elsewhere first. Use shopbots (shopping robots), that whizz to scores of internet retailers to find the cheapest price. My MegaShopBot.com tool auto-searches the best of these for each category.

Double-check delivery charges, as some sellers hope to recoup the costs by charging a little extra. Though eBay has now set maximum delivery charges for many categories.

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Health & Beauty

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When is the best time to exercise?

The optimum time to exercise is in the late afternoon, when your body is at its warmest and your muscles are most flexible and strong. Your blood pressure and heart rate are low. Statistics show that people perform better in the afternoon. If you’re an early bird and can’t live without your early morning fix, my advice is to build up slowly, as muscles are cold and therefore prone to strains and other injuries. Having said that, morning workouts can really set you up for the day ahead. But how often you work out is far more important for your health than when you work out. The government recommends 30 minutes of moderate cardio-vascular exercise 5 times a week. But the western lifestyle over the last 20-30 years has become increasingly more sedentary and sometimes it can be hard to find the time. A great way to get active and socialise at the same time is to sign up to exercise classes. The instructors give you the motivation and like-minded people provide the social interaction. Circuit training and boot-camps are considered some of the best all

round classes, classes providing cardio and strength benefits. benefits Viprs and kettle bells work the same way. If you prefer something less strenuous, Pilates or yoga can oﬀer strength benefits, but combine this with walking or swimming to provide the cardio.

In good

HEALTH

For more info on personal training, fitness classes and gym membership, just call Mick at Mick Glynn Fitness on 07879 455966 or visit www.mickglynn.co.uk

There is no substitute for hard work Getting in shape requires hard work and there is no avoiding this. However it can be made easier if you know how to achieve your goals. That is where a personal trainer comes in. A trainer is basically a fitness tool box to help you get the job done as quickly and safely as possible. Having a trainer is a big advantage as people always work harder when they have somebody watching over them. A trainer will help with the two most important elements of getting results: intensity and consistency. You are capable of so much more than you think and it’s a trainer’s job to push you. Working out with a trainer can be one on one or in a small group. They both work well and you are guaranteed to work harder than if you were working out on your own.

If you want to get in shape but don’t know where to start, then keep it simple and go back to basics. By basics I mean exercises such as squats, deadlifts, bench press, press ups, chin ups, dips and lunges. These exercises are old but they work and there are endless variations and routines you can do with just these few exercises. They will improve strength, shape your body and build lean muscle tissue that will help reduce body fat. All that hard work will be worth it when you reap the rewards! With thanks to James Gale at The Fit Club Wymondham. Find out more at www. fitclubwymondham.co.uk or call 01953 606 665

Health & Beauty

Ancient Oriental Astrology

FOR A MODERN LIFE The 9 Star Ki yearly cycle begins on February 4th 2014 and marks the beginning of spring in the Chinese calendar and also the New Year in the ancient Chinese Solar Calendar used in this system.

9 Fire Star A deep, spiritual year ahead, a time to pay yourself some attention. It’s a year of planning and getting yourself ready for the next cycle. Take care of your health as you may find it harder than usual to recover from illness. Keep warm and avoid cold foods.

Health wise, take care of bones and ligaments, stay ﬂexible and sing!

5 Earth Star

From last years’ changes, you now find yourself in a stronger position for making those important decisions. Your renewed sense of authority may come across as overbearing so remember to listen too. You could receive an unexpected windfall this year.

8 Earth Star You made it to the

top! It’s now your time to shine, show the world what you’re really about, clearly illuminated and switched on! The focus is on you – for good or bad – and people may be attracted to you more than usual, so give yourself some time alone now and again.

4 Wood Star This is your year for change, reinvention and rebirth. Often a ﬂuctuating year, full of ups and downs, so stay as centred and grounded as possible. Not a great year for making major decisions, or to move house. Allow things to come to you! That said enjoy all the attention and possibilities.

7 Metal Star This year can reﬂect big changes and revolution in your life, often feeling like an up-hill struggle, but rest assured it will all pay oﬀ in 2015. Take care of all your communications outgoing and incoming. Don’t spend too long in your ‘cave’ and stagnate, take regular exercise.

3 Wood Star

6 Metal Star You’ve turned a corner and can finally relax, look back over things and say, I did that! 2014 is a year for socialising and taking is easy. Take care however, not to slacken the purse strings too much.

The key for this year is to pace yourself and not to change direction. Complete projects and odd little jobs as you will soon find them stacking up as you gather momentum. You may feel unstoppable and want to take on every opportunity, just remember to take time out!

2 Earth Star

Things are finally starting to shift for you now, forward movement,

opportunity and an upward, progressive time ahead! Make the most of opportunities this year, a great time to start new projects and businesses. If it feels right don’t hesitate – be spontaneous.

1 Water Star

This can often be a frustrating year, as it precedes ‘spring’ in this system. It’s a time to make sure all those stepping-stones are planted firmly and laid out in front of you to sprint along in 2015. Your patience will pay oﬀ and allow changes to happen; go with the ﬂow. Thank you for reading and please do email me with any comments or questions at david@freeflow-fengshui.com Full in-depth 2014 forecasts are available for only £6.79 – Please visit my website for more details.

To discover your Ki Star and for more information about Ki Astrology please visit www.freeflow-fengshui.com David Walters DIP. CHIRO Follow me on: @fengshuiflow

facebook.com/ninestarki

Do you need a massage? D iss Osteopathy and Natural Health Clinic offers a massage service from experienced therapist Angela James. Angela is an ITEC qualified member of the CTHA in Holistic and Sports massage. Many people believe that a sports massage is only for very active people, but this isn’t the case. Those with physically demanding jobs are often restricted from performing properly due to the after-effects of illness or injury. Sports massage manages, manipulates and rehabilitates soft tissues including muscles, tendons and ligaments. Properly qualified sports massage practitioners ensure that effective and efficient results are gained from each massage given.

Deep tissue and remedial massage techniques improves suppleness and flexibility of muscles and joints, increases circulation to working muscles, speeds up healing of damaged or overworked tissues, reduces recovery time and improves performance.

Holistic massage addresses other areas such as stress. This affects people in different ways, both physically and emotionally. Holistic massage can help with emotional tension and the day to day stresses that life throws at us. These can manifest themselves in headaches, stiff necks and shoulders, and tension. Older people benefit too. For the elderly it can be difficult to get around, resulting in lack of exercise and muscle atrophy. Massage helps stimulate blood flow and releases

endorphins that promote omot a sense of well-being. ll-being Massage Association research has verified that people who are massaged regularly are more alert, perform better and are less stressed than those who aren’t. For more information or to book a massage, please call Angela on 01379 640735 or visit her website at www.angelajames.co.uk. For all other services, call the clinic on 01379 644407.

What we offer: Cranial osteopathy osteopathy • Sports Massage Holistic Massage • Counselling Aromatherapy • Reflexology

Diss Osteopathy and Natural Health Clinic

36 Shelfanger Road, Diss, IP22 4EH • www.dnhc.co.uk 01379 644407

We hope and trust that your visit to the practice will be pleasant and relaxing We are a small private dental practice providing treatment in quiet, calm and comfortable surroundings. This allows us to give you individual and personal attention, plenty of time and a excellent service. We would like to treat everyone as we would like to be treated ourselves.

GENERAL DENTISTRY CROWN/BRIDGE WORK ROOT CANAL TREATMENT DENTURES TOOTH WHITENEING IMPLANT DENTISTRY ORTHODONTIC TREATMENT PARTIAL/FULL MOUTH REHABILLITATION Call our friendly staff for an information pack 01379 897176

www.botesdaledentalpractice.co.uk

REFRESHING WATERS

Suffering Prompts Inspiring Global Mission 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

oman of faith, Sarah Hobday, failed to make sense of the long-term illness that took her life by storm, sapped her energy and muddled her thinking. Yet during the dark, lonely times she gained divine insight that prompted a new direction as an amateur film maker with a world-wide audience. “I was sensitive, compassionate and artistic but how could I use this to express my faith when I was in the wilderness?” recalls Sarah, who suﬀers from ME and faces the daily struggles of the illness. She believes the resulting years, when she was too tired to continue as a nursery nurse, brought a treasury of inspiration from her creator’s loving heart. “They helped me cope with depression and short-term memory loss while renewing my mind,” says Sarah from Downham Market Christian Fellowship. Now they form the basis of short, three minute films that are used at church meetings, women’s conferences and are widely viewed through You Tube on the internet. Sarah uses video footage, photographs, bible text and music to convey the personal, divine messages that have given her courage and hope for the path ahead and now inspire others. She also produces a series of biblical stop-motion animations for youngsters.

While in her latethirties, she believes her timely creative urge began to be used for a mission of passion that helped underpin a new purpose. “Eventually I would like to launch my own website and create a library of short films for other Christians to access easily,” says Sarah. Without training or experience, Sarah has made a host of films in colour and black and white, as well as a variety as gifts for friends and acquaintances. Her avenue for creative outreach began four years ago at a church prayer day when a potter was on hand. Sarah stood in front of the potter’s wheel as the clay was being worked and felt prompted to make a film which came quickly and clearly without a hitch. By the end of the day she had used her daughter’s video camera to film a pot being thrown. Sarah explained that she continued to follow divine inspiration. Returning home, she used tracks from her new CD compilation as background which, miraculously, provided the exact length of the video footage. With help from her husband, the film was completed

within a few hours and shown at the church service the following day. “There are so many references to clay in the bible as we have an awesome God who shapes and forms us as he is intimately involved with our lives,” says Sarah, who is a living testimony of being re-shaped for divine purposes. Some of Sarah’s films, including King of Wonders Potter, Brave by Nichole Nordeman and You Are by Ben Cantelon are on YouTube so you can watch them too!

Health & Beauty

A Unique Care Home in a Unique Setting Offering Long Term Residence, Convalescence and Respite Care for Elderly Residents with Dementia. The Beeches is an elegant country house set in two acres of wooded and meadow style gardens which provides peaceful surroundings and yet is close to all local amenities. The majority of our bedrooms are on the ground ﬂoor and have the beneﬁt of en-suite facilities.

Please call or email for further details or to request a brochure.

“We are here to help” West Harling Road, East Harling NR16 2NP Tel: 01953 717584 Email: thebeecheseastharling@btconnect.com Website: www.beechesresidential.co.uk Open 9am-5pm Monday to Saturday. Ample FREE parking at both Superstores.

BRAND NEW HALES STORE NOW OPEN (Previously C J Ball’s Motorcycle Shop).

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Health & Beauty

Manorcourt Daycare

Lifeline Alarm Service Peace of mind at the touch of a button The Lifeline unit enables someone to call for help 24 hours a day. It comes with an emergency button and a variety of sensors to help people live independently at home.

Open 5 days a week Monday - Friday 9am - 4pm (Division of Healthcare Homes) We provide a stimulating service in an informal and welcoming setting. We specialise in in individual care from the age of 55+ who have dementia and mental health needs. Our care staff are trained in all aspects of relevant areas in dementia care and they promote respect, choice and independence for each individual. Situated in a village location in the heart of Norfolk. Meals on wheels now being delivered.

ALL ENQUIRIES to Pauline Neal Tel: 01953 889230

Providing a

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Susan Whymark

Funeral Service Susan Whymark Funeral Service is owned and run by the Whymark Family.

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Rosedale FUNERAL HOME Providing the very best care. We have established our reputation by providing an exceptional service at an affordable cost.

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Dentures Direct

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Funeral Service

Telephone personally answered 24 hours a day

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From simple repairs to full replacement dentures Home collection service available

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Jobs & Money & Business

Philippa Green WEB DESIGN

Affordable bespoke web sites designed and built to your own specifications and budget using the latest build and design techniques. Domain names Hosting eCommerce Joomla and Cubecart all available Fully qualified and insured.

01953 887141 info@philippagreenwebdesign.co.uk www.philippagreenwebdesign.co.uk

Professional and affordable website design to promote your business We understand that every business has different requirements and budgets and will look after you personally from start to finish. Special discounts for new businesses. Contact us today!

info@websitedesign4suffolk.co.uk www.websitedesign4suffolk.co.uk Covering Suffolk & South Norfolk Self Assessment always a headache? Don’t worry, give it to us and get on with running your business.

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We specifically support the smaller business in all accountancy and tax matters.

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For a free, no obligation initial meeting call us today

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Business cards, ﬁne prints, greetings cards, calendars, letterheads, invoice sets, computer stationery, booklets, full colour catalogues and much more!

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Smart Money Secrets Don’t let your annual ISA allowance go to waste

By Andrew Hagger savings expert from www.moneycomms.co.uk

ith the new tax year just around the corner, it’s a good time to look for a suitable ISA (Individual Savings Account) for your tax free savings. The overall ISA limit increases from £11,520 to £11,880 from 6 April 2014, and for cash based tax free savings accounts the new allowance is up by £180 to £5,940 per person. Should I consider investing in a Stocks and Shares ISA to get a better return? At a time when cash savings rates are at rock bottom, there is understandably a bigger temptation to opt for stock market based ISA investments in search of a better return. However before committing your funds it is sensible

to speak to an Independent Financial Adviser to understand the costs, risks and the vast choice of products to choose from. Equity (Stocks & Shares) based products are considered a longer term investment and not suitable if you want instant access to your cash. You can choose to invest a lump sum or drip feed your investment on a monthly basis and there is a wide range of products with diﬀerent levels of risk, so unless you’re an experienced investor, it’s definitely worth getting some professional guidance. Cash ISA – Fixed rate or variable rate? It’s a tough call whether to opt for a variable rate or a fixed rate account this year. The best 1 year fixed rate ISA currently pays virtually the same as the top variable rate account, however with experts predicting a slight increase in savings rates over

the next 12 months, the variable rate deal may turn out to be the more rewarding option over time. Before you sign up for a new ISA, it’s worth considering the choices out there and which account may be best suited to you, but with a vast array of ISA terms and conditions, you may find following checklist helpful, when you speak to your bank or building society. • Is the interest rate variable or fixed? • Does the ISA allow you to transfer in previous years ISA balances? • Does the interest rate include a bonus? – if yes make a diary note to switch when it expires • Is interest paid monthly or annually? • Is the interest rate only available to existing customers? • Do you have to purchase another financial product (i.e. Equity based investment) to qualify for this rate? It’s not often you get a chance to legally keep the taxman away from your savings interest, so make sure you make full use of your allowance if you can.

Jobs & Money & Business

Make the most of your retirement Michael Boon is your local Equity Release Council member for professional independent advice. If you are interested in releasing a tax-free lump sum from your home then Michael will be delighted to guide you through the different types of equity release schemes available to find the best plan for your needs.

To find out more call Michael on 01508 483983 or visit www.businessmattersifa.co.uk

with equity release

Equity release schemes allow you to release tax-free cash from your home to boost your finances in later life • Many clients use this money to repay an existing mortgage, make home improvements, buy a new car and even go on a holiday of a life time, while others may wish to offer financial assistance to their children or to improve their own quality of life in retirement. • Business Matters is qualified and registered through the Financial Conduct Authority to offer a valuable equity release service for homeowners aged 55 or over. • Business Matters only recommend approved schemes from The Equity Release Council.

BusinessMatters

This is a lifetime mortgage, to understand the features and risks ask for a personalised illustration. Business Matters is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority No. 301141.

Putting opportunities within your reach...

Our regional network of branches and online jobsearch facilities give you 24/7 access to a

greater choice of jobs.

Diss Branch 01379 642276 Thetford Branch 01842 761398 Lowestoft Branch 01502 582000

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PERMANENT & TEMPORARY ● ADMINISTRATION ● CUSTOMER SERVICE ● DRIVING ● ENGINEERING EXECUTIVE SEARCH ● FINANCE ● HUMAN RESOURCES ● I.T. SOLUTIONS ● INDUSTRIAL INSURANCE ● MANAGEMENT ● SALES ● SECRETARIAL ● SUPPLY CHAIN ● TECHNICAL

Make the most of your retirement

Michael Boon - member of the Equity Release Council

e are all living longer and planning to do more with our free time, but a changing economic climate and pension provisions mean many people don’t often have the money to realise their retirement dreams. Equity release allows you to release tax-free cash from your home to boost your finances in later life and it is beginning to play an important role for home owners aged over 55. In my experience the most important factors for people seeking advice is to demonstrate and be able to guarantee the following: There must be a ‘no negative equity guarantee’ to safeguard your beneficiaries You are able to remain in your own home for as long as you wish You have the right to sell your home at any time to down-size or move into other accommodation, the amount owed is then repaid with any balance transferred to your bank account Money borrowed will be at a fixed rate of interest for life, is tax-free, and can be used for any purpose No monthly payments are made, as interest is rolled up on a lifetime mortgage. If a Home Reversion plan is more suitable you would sell a proportion of your property and remain in your home for life with no roll up of interest on the percentage of the value retained.

This can be checked on the FCA Register: www.fca.org.uk/register or telephone 0800 111 6768 Before deciding whether Equity Release is suitable for you, your questions should be answered to your total satisfaction, be prepared to take time over this, never be rushed into something if you are in any doubt. If you are single or living on your own, consider inviting a friend or a family member to be with you. This will enable you to discuss and reﬂect on the advice given. In my opinion you should not make any decision at the first meeting. This should be to establish whether the person giving you the advice is acceptable to you or not before asking him or her to obtain further information specific to your own needs. It is an FCA requirement that Keyfacts are given to you and thoroughly explained, this may be from two or three providers to assess the most suitable before making your decision to apply for either a lump sum of money, income or to secure a facility that will allow you to draw down sums as and when required. There are many options available to you hence the reason why it is necessary to be fully informed. For further information on how you can make the most of your retirement with equity release please call Michael on 01508 483983 or visit his website www.businessmattersifa.co.uk

There are many reasons why people raise money using Equity Release: to repay an existing mortgage, home improvements, buy a motor home, travel abroad, help their children with house purchase or to enhance their own lifestyle. Before making any decisions you are advised to seek independent professional advice from a person qualified and approved by the FCA.

Jobs & Money & Business

the best careers in care

You may be looking for a challenging and rewarding career with a chance to make a real difference to someone’s life. Or you may be looking for the training, support and excellent beneﬁts you need to turn your care experience into a career with real prospects.

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Local specialists We offer advice in on:all types of medical injury claim • Wills & Trusts including: Inheritance tax diagnosis • Missed Probate and administration Birth injury/cerebral palsy of estates • Powers of attorney • Negligent surgery Fatal accidents/inquests Contact Robert Chalmers on 01603 703231 Julie Crossley

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Jobs & Money & Business

Cleaners Required If you are `keen to clean’ our local cleaning agency could be looking for you!

Recommend a teacher to us and you will both receive a £75.00 one4all gift card, once the teacher has worked for 5 days

Qualified Primary and Secondary teachers required for teaching positions throughout Norfolk & Suffolk Day to day ~ Long term ~ Permanent vacancies available See our website or call Samantha for further details

• Flexible daytime hours to suit • £7 per hour • Domestic environment

• Choose when and where you work If you love cleaning and would like to be part of a friendly local team, call today to find out more.

Contact Sylvia on 01379 870140 / 07702 630855 Would you like to earn an extra income?

We are a charity based in Diss, looking for people with spare rooms to let for potential lodgers. We match you with someone needing accommodation – at no cost to you!

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Services

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• Complete on site breakdown service available 7 days a week • Indoor caravan storage facility • Fully insured, friendly, no fuss services and repairs at your home • Motor Movers and other accessories fitted

Lindsa y Flaxmer m o t o r Lindsay Flaxmer Ltd is a well established garage now operating in their 10th year! Lindsay has over 35 years of experience within the motor trade and has an exceptional team of technicians who have been with him since he started Lindsay Flaxmer Motor Management. With all state of the art diagnostic equipment ranging from BOSCH KTS, Snap-on, VAGCOM and many more and constant training they can look after almost every modern day vehicle. Catering for vehicles such as a 1913 Velux Miniatures, heavy duty landrovers, performance vehicles, commercial and brand new there really is nothing they can’t look after! With state of the art ATL MOT testing bay they can MOT both CLASS 4 and CLASS 7 vehicles. They have gained an excellent reputation locally for their work and friendly attitude and benefit from a very high percentage of repeat customers.

m a n a g e m e n t • Very competitive prices on all makes and sizes of tyre, car or commercial • High level of servicing on all car and commercial vehicles • Very competitive prices on batteries and exhausts • Quality high spec brakes fitted & pressure bleeding • 4 wheel alignment • Air conditioning servicing • Class 4 & 7 MOT’s • State of the art diagnostics • DPF deletion • ECU remapping • Cambelts fitted at very competitive prices • All types of Clutches and Flywheels fitted • Full range quality Engine Oils stocked • Local vehicle collection and drop-offs • Loan cars (subject to availability) • Recovery • Very competitive Labour rate • Experienced, Friendly & fully trained technicians • Modern workshop facilities and comfortable reception waiting area • No job is too big or too small, let us look after your car

CARMercedes-Benz REVIEWS A-Class

By Tim Barnes-Clay, Motoring Journalist Twitter @carwriteups www.carwriteups.co.uk

uality cars are identifiable straight away. Even if a premium vehicle had its badges taped over, all you’d need to do is sit in it. Instantly you’d sense the difference between an ‘average’ and a top class motor. Take the latest Mercedes-Benz A-Class. Inside, it’s positively palatial.

The German brand is famous for its refinement, but the A-Class is almost the runt of the litter – and therefore you might expect a more undeveloped set up inside and out. But that’s not the case at all. It may well have been the argument when the old model first appeared on our roads. It was upright, careful and dull. It certainly wasn’t a car you’d list as captivating. Nonetheless, it did sell – and that’s because it was affordable – for a Merc – and practical for parents on the rug-rat run desperate to roll up outside the school gates in a Benz. Then the A-Class was completely re-thought for 2013. It rolled off the production line a totally different car – not just one that had undergone PRoS ‘N’ CoNS . Athletic √ Attractive √ Great grip √ Safe √ Small boot X fAST fACTS Max speed: 130 mph 0-60 mph: 9.3 secs Combined mpg: 62.8 Engine: 1796cc 4 cylinder 16 valve turbo diesel Max. power (bhp): 136 at 3600-4400 rpm Max. torque (lb/ft): 221 at 1600-3000 rpm Co2: 121 g/km Price: £25,110

plastic surgery – it was poles apart from the old version. The entry-level Mercedes is now truly enthralling and a machine you want because of its alluring aesthetics. In some ways it’s lost its no-nonsense practicality because the boot, although conveniently rectangular, is nothing to shout about space-wise. But brush that aside and take a test drive, because the new model will seduce you – especially if you go for the A 200 CDI AMG Sport. This is a real driver’s car and includes a dynamic handling package with sports suspension, perforated disc brakes and cruise control. As well as this, the Merc has athletic bodystyling, 18 inch alloy wheels and a silver grille. Additionally, in A 200 CDI guise, it comes with a gutsy turbo diesel powerhouse. It also has a ﬂat-bottomed leather steering wheel, red stitching, sports seats, rain sensors, ambient lighting and a stereo system boy-racers would be jealous of. On the move, the A 200’s oil burner gets you to a respectable speed quickly, if not sensationally. Road

holding, however, is phenomenal. Steering is well-weighted and precise, and the six speed gearbox is slick, quick, and easy on your left hand. At the same time, the A-Class reinforces that safety is the priority for Mercedes-Benz. In addition to having an ‘electronic stability program’ (ESP), which detects and reduces loss of traction, it has adaptive brakes with hill-start assist. Standard specification also includes radar-based ‘collision prevention assist’, which can reduce the risk of nose-to-tail collisions, or minimise their eﬀects. The safety on the baby Benz isn’t just clever; it’s potentially life-saving. I certainly found the gadgetry helped to alert me when everything on the motorway ground to a halt without warning. The ‘collision prevention assist’ gives you visual and acoustic warnings if it senses an accident is likely to happen. It also primes the function called ‘brake assist’ to ensure maximum stopping power as soon as your foot touches the brake pedal. The A-Class has the vim and vigour that’s required to punch its weight in a highly competitive market. It’s an all-round performer and just the car that Mercedes-Benz dealers need to tempt new customers into their showrooms.

LOCAL DIRECTORY GETTING YOUR BUSINESS NOTICED

ACCOUNTANT / BOOK-KEEPING TaxAssist 68 KJ Accountancy 68 White Accounts 73 Newman & Co 44 ANIMAL & VETERINARY SERVICES Swallow Aquatics 79 Hill Cottage Cattery 30 Norfolk Dog Training 48 Uplands Way Vets Ltd 48 Smylee Pets 49 APPLIANCE REPAIRS Paul Lovett Domestic Appliance Repairs 46 ARCHITECT Andrew P R Love 30 Nick Clarke 50 ARTS, CRAFTS AND ANTIQUES Susan’s Work-Basket 58 Diss Crochet Bee 24 Norfolk Fairs 9 BATHROOMS AHM Installations 38 BEDS Diss Bed Centre & Furniture Warehouse 40 Sound Sleep Ltd 4 BUILDING / ROOFING Glenn Wilson Ltd 46 R. Oldfield General Builder & Carpenter 50 Norfolk Steel Buildings 30 CAR / CARAVAN REPAIRS & GARAGES Anglian Caravan Engineering Services 74 T J Oldfield Mobile Mechanic 44 Lindsay Flaxmer 74 CARE HOMES, PERSONAL ASSISTANCE & MOBILITY The Beeches 66 Saﬀron Housing Contact Care 67 Manor Court Daycare 67 Mobility Superstore Ltd 66 CARPETS, FLOORING & RUGS Eye Flooring 3 John Doe of Diss 80 CHIMNEY SWEEPS Anglia Chimney Sweeps 50 CLEANING Ticketyboo Cleaning Services 32

COMPUTER, INTERNET, WEB & DESIGN SERVICES Philippa Green Web Design 68 Bailiwick IT 68 Website Design 4 Suﬀolk 68 CURTAINS, BLINDS, AWNINGS & SHUTTERS Cooks Blinds 31 DAYS OUT Chenery Live 18 Epic TV 20 Eastons Holidays 12 Fairhaven 10 Galloway Travel 15 DENTISTS & DENTURES Botesdale Dental Practice 2 /64 Marlborough Dental Practice 67 ELECTRICIAN Dave Ramstead 44 FINANCIAL SERVICES EACH 73 Business Matters 70 FLORIST Park Flowers 59 FOOD Cocoa Mama Chocolaterie 58 Just Truﬄes 58 Fredericks Fine Foods 59 Budgens of Harleston 6 FUEL MERCHANTS Larkins Fuel Merchants 42 CPL Distribution 43 Rix Petroleum 32 FUNERAL SERVICES Susan Whymark 67 Rosedale Funeral Home 67 FURNITURE Diss Bed Centre & Furniture Warehouse 40 John Doe of Diss 80 Pavels Kitchens and Furniture 38 GARDEN SERVICES, LANDSCAPING & SUPPLIES The Garden Enclosure 25 Waveney Tree Specialists 27 Noble Paving East Anglia Ltd 26 Land Army Designs 44 P.D. Garden Services 24

Nigel Payne Fruit Tree Pruning Mike Smith Gardenworks Cabinville Garden Cabins Lake and Pond Aquatics Hempnall Lawnmower Centre Eclipse Home & Garden Services Land Sculpture Ltd The Green Man R & A Driveways A. Waterfield & Sons Smart Garden Offices North Suﬀolk Trees & Gardens Sweet Briar Garden Centre Eye Gardens Gard ‘n’ Cox GATES, RAILINGS & DOORS Cooks Blinds HEALTH, BEAUTY AND FITNESS Spire Norwich Hospital Dr Gaye White Foot Health Cambridge Diet with John Howard MG Fitness Nicola Clarke Foot Health The Hearing Care Centre

62 60 15 60 10 21 Diss Osteopathy & Natural Health Clinic 64 Amanda Pilates 60 Bella Beauticians 60 IRONING SERVICES Pressed-to-Go 50 Ironed 4 U 50 JOBS, RECRUITMENT & TRAINING Key Education Services 73 Maid 2 Clean 73 Hales Group 70/72 Solo Housing 73 Domestic Cleaning Vacancies 73 KITCHENS Kitchen Sense of Harleston 50 Pavels Kitchens and Furniture 38 OPTICIANS Cecil Amey 59/60 PAINTING AND DECORATING Chris Rosling 46 PEST CONTROL Deer Stalking in England Ltd 51 Rid of Moles 30

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, omissionsorclaims 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. 2008-2014

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PHOTOGRAPHY & FILM Orton-Reynolds Photography 54 KVS Media 51 PLUMBING, HEATING, TANK, DRAINAGE & BOILER SERVICES Pat the Plumber 46 AA Utilities Limited 46 Else Heating & Plumbing 46 P & D Tank Services 30 Metrorod 9 PRINTERS Town & Country Printers 68 REMOVALS & HOUSE CLEARANCE John Ryder 40 Van and a Man 30 RESTAURANTS, PUBS & HOTELS The Park Hotel 20 Sherbourne House Hotel 18 Il Divo 11 The Queen’s Head, Eye 14 The Billingford Horseshoes 8 Turkuaz 20 RIDING Eye Equestrian Centre 48 SCHOOLS, COLLEGES & NURSERIES New Eccles Hall School 51 Norwich High School 21 SECURITY Malthouse Security Ltd 34 SHOPPING Chapelfield 56

Tilting Sky Adullam’s Cave Trulock and Harris The Jewellery Workshop Diss Trophy Centre Striptees SOLICITORS Ashton KCJ STONE MASONRY Cutstone Ltd STORAGE John Ryder Rookery Self Storage Self-Storage Diss STOVES Raven Stoves TAXIS Diss Town Taxis THEATRE Theatre Royal TYRES etyres WEDDINGS Norfolk Brides Wedding Fair WINDOW CLEANING Chris Cottrell Cleaning WINDOWS & CONSERVATORIES C & M Glass Glass & Sealed Unit Centre Ltd Conservatories etc

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Make your own Chicken Liver Parfait This indulgent chicken liver parfait is currently on the menu at Relish in Newton Flotman. This issue, their head chef Jeremy Parke shows us how to make it at home.

What you need: For the parfait :

550g chicken livers 5 whole eggs 400g unsalted butter 125ml red port 125ml Madeira 50ml cognac 15g fine salt 1 banana shallot, finely sliced 1 whole garlic clove, chopped 1 sprig fresh thyme

For the jelly:

12ml Madeira 1 Â˝ leaves of gelatine

Toasted brioche to serve

1. Preheat the oven to 100ď&#x2122;ĄC. 2. Add the shallot, garlic and thyme leaves to a saucepan with the port, Madeira, brandy and salt. Put on a medium heat and reduce to a syrup. 3. Melt the butter in a pan. 4. Break the eggs into a separate saucepan and warm them to about the same temperature as the butter. 5. Warm the chicken livers in a wide-bottomed pan over a very low heat. You are not cooking them at this stage, just warming through. 6. Place the port, Madeira and brandy marinade into a food processor and blitz. Add the chicken livers and keep blitzing this mixture at a high speed. Begin to add the eggs a little at a time until they are all incorporated. Next, slowly add the butter until you have a glossy mixture. 7. Pass this through a fine sieve and then pour into individual ramekins. Place the ramekins on a tray and cook in the oven for 10 to 15 minutes until they are set. The mixture should wobble when you remove them from the oven. Refrigerate immediately and the mixture will set as it cools down.

For the jelly: 1. Reduce the Madeira to 1/3 of its original volume. Whilst it is reducing, soften the gelatine leaves in cold water. 2. When the Madeira has reduced sufficiently, whisk in the gelatine and spoon enough over the cold parfait to form layer of jelly (with our dish we kept the jelly separate as we wanted cubes of the jelly for presentation on the plate). 3. Refrigerate for a further 15 minutes to allow the jelly to set. Serve straight from the fridge with a slice of toasted brioche. Naughty but nice and in moderation -

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