YLM April 2016 | #70

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A GAMBIAN ADVENTURE

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Issue #70

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APRIL 2016

Your Lifestyle Magazine for Norfolk & Suffolk Issue #70 | APRIL 2016

WELCOME TO

adventurous april

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RINGING IT

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STORIES | COMMENT | CAPTURE | HOME & GARDEN | FOOD & DRINK | HEALTH & BEAUTY VENTURE | MOTORING | FASHION | EVENTS DIARY

CONTENTS

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CONTENTS

Issue #70 | APRIL 2016

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38 RINGING IT ( A GAMBIAN ADVENTURE) 11 _ Chris McIntyre recently travelled to Kartong Bird Observatory in Gambia as part of a 10-man ringing team from the UK

a familier face 17 _ C O V ER Wendy Aiken Photography

In 2013 we worked with Diss carnival queen Alice Cater for the first time

GOOD SPIRITS 21 _ Louise Priest presents the South Norfolk Council Community Awards

review: Claude Bourbon 23 _ The French-Swiss guitarist recently played at the Bank in Eye

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WHICH WOOD AND WHY 32 _

FEELING BLUE 53 _

Wonderful, versatile and warm, see what wood can do

If I take more time off work will I lose my holiday?

KEEP YER HEEL DOWN BOR 36 _

Best buy 55 _

Where to find the ‘proper snow’

Exploring the minefield that is car buying

Is being fit & healthy hard?

38 _ Overcoming the everyday challenge of healthy living

HEAT & LIGHT 40 _ How modern and traditional treatments can offer the ideal skin perfection combo

FIVE minute makeover 43 _ Everyday makeup for busy bees

sow exciting 29 _

Can anyone be artistic?

49 _

Which flowerts are blooming and when to sow, grow and care

Gain both physically and mentally by expressing yourself

your lifestyle magazine

Your Lifestyle Magazine for Norfolk & Suffolk

Do you have a story to tell? Submit your story via 01379 669299 | info@ylm.co.uk

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BOOK CLUB 60 _ The latest releases

‘Tis a puzzlement!

61 _ “Life comes in small pieces, sometimes we struggle to make sense of the bits and how they fit together.”

SPRING FRESH 45

April 2016

WELCOME STYLE M A

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BY POST YLM PO Box 370 Eye IP22 9BP

THE YLM FAMILY PUBLISHER Wendy Aiken wendy@ylm.co.uk CREATIVE & EDITORAL Ben Aiken ben@ylm.co.uk ACCOUNTS Janet Fairweather janet@ylm.co.uk

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Contributors Geir Madland Bridget McIntyre Amanda Church Geraldine Walters Fiona Sutherland Joan Garnham Gabi Reid Louise Priest Mark Aiken Phil Burton Katrina Burton Sue Johnson Leighten Ball Kyle Brooks

Africa no less. I find it so interesting and how blessed we are to have Chris and his friends that give so much of their own time in such vital support for conservation.

Our second story is again inspiring and makes me think, do we acknowledge those who give so much of their own time to do something amazing for the community?

I always said our mission at YLM is to be real and showcase inspiring stories and places. The Bank in Eye certainly fits that criterion.

The Bank is a not-for-profit arts centre. Rebecca Lyne, Jules Talbot and Christopher Parr give so much and have transformed the vacant, former HSBC branch.

If you get a chance to participate in some of their events you won’t be sorry, or just pop in for a cuppa and something yummy to eat. I hope you enjoy reading all about it. I just wish I had more time as I would go much more often.

Three years ago I photographed Alice Cater as the face of YLM for the first time. Alice has just

celebrated her 21st birthday and Dream On 0 1 3 treated her to one of their amazing makeover days, hair, make up, nails, styling, a yummy lunch and photo shoot. We have had a catch up with her and had a look back on past photo shoots for YLM and her latest photos from Dream On. Happy 21st Birthday Alice with love from all the YLM family.

I hope you enjoy another jam-packed edition as much as we enjoyed producing it.

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Love, Your Lifestyle Magazine for Norfolk & Suffolk

DISTRIBUTION Dayburst Couriers 07810 852 089 dayburst@diss.co.uk

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n March we had a wonderful thing happen in our pretty village of Hoxne. A year after our beloved pub closed, the lovely Angela and Darren Turner have reopened The Swan Inn Hoxne and given us our local back. The amazing chef, Paul has returned to where he belongs and Chloe and Annie are serving us again. It was like a community reunion walking back in to The Swan, the half pint club back in their corner of the bar on a Sunday lunchtime, just perfect. We wish Darren, Angela and family all the best and a huge thank you for giving such an important part of Hoxne village life back.

I hope you all had a lovely Easter break and had some time to relax with friends and family. My favourite kind of time!

Welcome to April’s edition of YLM with two great stories and great editorial from our family of contributors. I was so happy when ‘The Bird Man’, Chris McIntrye, said we could have a catch up story on his latest adventure, bird ringing in

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ENQUIRIES

SUBSCRIPTIONS Enquiries to info@ylm.co.uk using the word ‘Subscribe’

YLM is published by Circuit Media (P&L) Ltd. Disclaimer: The views expressed by the contributors are not necessarily those of the publisher. Every effort is taken to ensure that the contents of the magazine are accurate but the publisher can not assume responsibility for errors or omissions. Whilst reasonable care is taken when accepting advertisements the publisher will not accept any resulting unsatisfactory transactions. They will, however, immediately investigate any written complaints. © Circuit Media (P&L) Ltd, 2016

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One day Alice came to a fork in the road and saw a Cheshire cat in a tree. “Which road do I take?” she asked. “Where do you want to go?” was his response. “I don’t know,” Alice answered.

“Then,” said the cat, “it doesn’t matter.” - Lewis Carroll

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Rain Song

Let the rain kiss you drops r hea d with silver liquid Let the rain beat upon you lull aby Let the rain sing you a ls on the sidewa lk The rain ma kes still poo ls in the gutter The rain ma kes run ning poo night sleep song on our roof at The rain plays a little And I lov e the rain.

Langston Hughes

STORIES

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Words Fiona Sutherland PHOTOGRAPHY Lee Gregory

An unlikely Marriage As the Land Rover Defender Heritage Edition rolls on, Leighten Ball takes a nostalgic look at an icon

Chris M c I ntyre + S c ops O w l

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K a rtong B ird O bser v a tory

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G a m bi a

RINGING IT A GAMBIAN ADVENTURE

| ? | Gambia is in West Africa. It is largely surrounded by Senegal with a short coastline on the Atlantic ocean.

It is the smallest country in mainline Africa with a population of just over 1.8 million.

continued

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LEFT TO RIGHT, TOP TO BOTTOM Subalpine Warbler | Hoopoe Kenaba | Red-bellied Paradise Fly | Red-faced Cisticola | Kartong Crocodile _

C hris McIntyre’s knowledge and understanding of birds is clear.

He follows his passion around the globe. I recently caught up with him following his recent trip to Kartong in Gambia. It’s the fourth time he has been as part of a 10-man ringing team from the UK. They visit the Kartong Bird Observatory run by Colin Cross who is the resident ornithologist and hosts

the visit. Each year the team visit to study the migration of Western Palearctic birds and to understand what is happening to birds in the places they live and how this affects population increases and decreases.It also gives information on the movements individual birds make and how long they live for. This knowledge is vital for conservation.

I asked Chris why he continues to return to Gambia. He explained that it is great to see the progress being made over there with the youngsters.

“Each year we work with some of the locals and help train them in bird ringing. From setting up the net lanes to bird identification and ringing. At the end of our two week stay we present them with certificates

and leave them to help continue the research. It’s been great to see their knowledge and enthusiasm grow”.

Chris flies with the team to Banjul airport. Gambia is in West Africa. It is largely surrounded by Senegal with a short coastline (where the bird observatory is based) on the Atlantic ocean. It is the smallest country in mainline Africa with a population of just over 1.8 million.

“We start bird watching as soon as we arrive. The numbers of raptors we see on the 90-minute journey to Kartong is unbelievable. This year we saw Yellow Billed Kite, Grey Kestrel, Shikra, Pale Chanting Goshawk, Osprey and Hooded Vultures “ Chris clearly loves Gambia and talks with passion and enthusiasm about the trip.

The work is quite intensive once the team arrive. Some of the team have set roles throughout the trip. Chris is responsible for the ringing table and the data input sheets.

“We try and capture as much information as possible about the birds we ring,” he explained.

“We identify the bird, we put a ring on the bird, not a straightforward matter, there are a huge number of ring sizes to select from. Each ring has a unique ID number which we record onto a central database. We also capture information on age, sex, moult score, feather condition, fat, wing and weight, all this has to be done as quickly as possible as we are working in temperatures of approx. 82 degrees so we need to release the birds as soon as we can.“

“The numbers of raptors we see on the 90-minute journey to Kartong is unbelievable...

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Woodchat Shrike Stala | Viellot’s Barbet Kenaba

RINGING IT A GAMBIAN ADVENTURE

The work can be quite hazardous. Chris showed me a picture of a crocodile on the banks of the reedbed where they capture some of the birds. It must have been at least 12ft long.

We talked about some of the birds the team handled.

Chris explained that when they capture the Western Palearctic birds they are in their wintering grounds.

I looked up the distance from the home of YLM to Kartong Bird Observatory, it is just over 3600 miles. Birds like the Common Whitethroat, Nightingale, Sedge, Reed, Olivaceous, Melodious, Garden, Grasshopper, Icterine, Subalpine, Orphean and Western Bonelli’s warblers and some of the waders, Common, Green and Wood Sandpipers migrate there every year. It is

astonishing to think about.

The team also have a chance to ring birds that are much more endemic to the region.

Chris recalls a time he was on a walking safari in South Africa when he started to be hounded by a bird called the Greater Honeyguide. “The bird was trying to get us to follow him to a bees’ nest so we could disturb it and he could eat the honey.

Every time we went off course, the bird swooped at us and pointed us in the direction of the bees. This is also a partnership the bird has with the Honey Badger. This year we caught both a Greater and a Lesser Honeyguide. I was able to ring them both and study them in more detail “ Some of the work of the team is done at night time, they vis-

ited Sanyang to capture waders and when the moon is right they go out in pairs to capture Nightjars.

Personally I am fascinated by owls. Chris is involved in the successful Suffolk Community Barn Owl project. I asked what he had seen in Gambia.

He showed a picture of a very beautiful Scops Owl. It was only by handling the bird that he was able to ID the owl as being Eurasian rather than an African Scops owl. The team were delighted to find out that this bird had migrated down to Gambia and the first to be ringed by the team.

In addition to research into migration, the team take medical supplies for the clinic in Kartong and some of the team visit the local school

which receives some support from Harleston primary school.

Football kit is also popular over there.

Its been good to talk to Chris and learn about the great work the team are doing. If you would be interested in finding more about bird ringing you can contact either the BTO or the Waveney Bird Club. ●

Further interest, waveneybirdclub.com bto.org

...“This year we saw Yellow Billed Kite, Grey Kestrel, Shikra, Pale Chanting Goshawk, Osprey & Hooded Vultures.”

April 2016

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ART & DESIGN

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from tuesday 12th april

CLARE BLOIS Autumn Evening

Rural Themes

Twelve artists from across the UK are exhibiting in Suffolk from 12th April and sales of their work will help raise funds for the Royal Agricultural Benevolent Institution (RABI).

The Rural Themes exhibition at The Gallery Highwaymans in Risby, Bury St Edmunds aims to raise awareness of the valuable work the RABI does for the farming community.

It will feature paintings by Clare Blois and textiles by Jacque Wakely RBSA from Scotland, Eric Pentecost and Charles Summers FRSA from Cornwall, Celia Bennett from Gloucester, Mark Weston from West Sussex, Jerry Alexander from Essex, Nick Andrew from Wiltshire, Fiona Scott-Wilson from Kent, Clive Meredith from Hampshire, Susie Lidstone from Surrey and Gerry Defries from London.

T he G a l l ery H igh w a y m a ns

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☞ For more events of this nature see the Diary on page 64

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April 2016

STORIES

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PHOTOGRAPHY Wendy Aiken Styling + OUTFIT Dream On

In 2013 we worked with Alice Cater for the first time and we have continued to enjoy a very special relationship. From the nervous, pretty girl who was about to be crowned Diss carnival queen to the confident, stunning young lady we now see before us. Here is Alice at 21 and how we have loved seeing her blossom.

We thought it would be fun to catch up with Alice by the way of q&a on her 21st birthday and after three years of working with YLM as the face of the magazine...

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STORIES

Q&A

Have you got every copy of YLM you have been in? I think they will be great to show your children one day and your grandchildren?

What memories do you have of your first photo shoot for the magazine?

I was terrified! I had no idea what I was doing and still in shock from being told that I would be carnival queen, but the second I met Wendy, she completely relaxed me and made me laugh which was exactly what I needed.

I have one copy of the wedding shoot together, which holds a special place in my heart with it being the last my grandma saw before she passed away April last year.

My mum has collected every single magazine I’ve been in and put them in a portfolio for me. My children?!

Well that’s far into the future but it would be nice to look back at how cool their mother used to be... ha, ha

What countries would you like to see, which one first and why, if money was no object?

Definitely America, that’s my dream and my cousin lives there too, so it would be amazing to see him again. Venice, Sorrento, Rome, Australia, so many more places!

who were also doing the makeover day, to see their confidence grow was magical! Anyone who gets the chance to do it, definitely should, the ladies at Dream On are the best group of people, I loved every second! Thank you so much Wendy!

Do you have a favourite YLM photo shoot and what was it about it you

How did you celebrate your

loved so much?

21st birthday?

back on our younger selves. What

I’ve loved every shoot that we’ve done together but I must say that our wedding shoot last year really showed me exactly what you’ve seen in me these last three years, last year was a massive milestone for me too. I honestly felt like a princesses with my hair, make-up and the dress, my goodness! Our recent shoot at Dream On was perfect too!

I celebrated it by having The Muppets play at The Cock Inn in Diss. I danced the night away with all my family and friends! It was the perfect evening even though I had a sore head the next day!

advise would you give your younger

2013 what were you doing

self?

work wise?

I would tell myself that everything will change for the better, the future is bright, you just may not see it now but it is.

I have seen you grow and blossom

It takes a really special kind of

in the last three years and couldn’t

person to be a carer, what do

be prouder! What would you say has

your patients think when they

been the biggest change in you from

see you in YLM? What’s their

our first meeting?

Do you have a favourite outfit from

reaction?

You’ve made me believe in myself for the first time. Self confidence and self-belief are things I’ve never had, but you saw something in me that I’ve never seen, you’ve helped me transform from a girl to a lady, and for that I thank you.

any of your photoshoots? I think I

My ladies used to love seeing me in the magazine, and would tell their families, ‘I have the queen looking after me’, which I thought was so sweet of them. I’ve recently changed my job so this shall be the first magazine that my new ladies shall see, so I’m rather looking forward to seeing their reaction.

a

familier face

As we get older, we can often think

So our lovely Alice, back in

I was a carer, in and around the Diss area, which I’m still currently doing.... (smiles)

ventures around the world but I don’t even own a passport at the moment! I want to continue to be happy and surround myself with incredible people.

What are your future plans, hopes , dreams and ambitions?

Becoming a carer has always been my dream job. I would love to pack a rucksack and go on ad-

know the worst one!

Yes, we both know which one I hated the most ha, ha. I adored the wedding dress but I don’t think that would go down too well if I brought that home but I actually treated myself to the two outfits I wore for our Dream On photoshoot. The dress I wore for my 21st birthday party.

What was the funniest photo taken

Alice Cater you are THE face of YLM and I love you to bits, you are not only beautiful on the outside but on the inside too. You are kind, bubbly and so much fun to be around. I love your energy. We look forward to seeing where your life takes you and feel blessed to be watching you all the way.

Happy 21st Birthday Alice.

When you go travelling perhaps we can print your Travel Blog, I know if you want it bad enough it WILL happen. — Wendy

that didn’t make YLM?

Without a doubt the tennis shot.

The wind was against me that day.

The worst day to wear a tennis skirt!

Dream On treated you to one of their amazing makeover days, can you tell our readers about what happens on the day and how you found it and why, if people have the chance to go, they should grab it?

Dream On makeover days are incredible! You get pampered, spoilt, get to wear gorgeous outfits, have your makeup, nails and hair done.

They make you feel so confident!

I met some amazing ladies there

I wouldn’t have been able to grow the way I have if it wasn’t for Wendy and the YLM team for supporting me every step of the way in the last three years. Thank you for everything you’ve done for me, believing in me and giving me this opportunity! I’d be lost without you and I’m forever grateful!

Thank you so much! The travelling will definitely happen and I shall see the world, finally! — Alice ●

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COMMENT

S P I R I T S

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The South Norfolk Council Community Awards

G O O D

he kindness and modesty of people hit home once again a few weeks ago when I presented the South Norfolk Council Community Awards. I have had the privilege of doing this for the last three years. This year the council received a record 88 nominations for a wide range of awards. The event is held at the John Innes Centre and as the evening was about to commence, the excitement was obvious amongst all those there - the nominees, families and local councillors, not forgetting the High Sheriff of Norfolk, Mr Nicholas Pratt (resplendent in velvet).

The sincerity of these community heroes cannot be overstated. More than 200 people gathered in the auditorium and, you know, not one of those nominated actually expected to receive anything for the work they have been doing to enhance their communities. A very humbling thought and so unlike the often superficial award ceremonies that happen throughout the year.

This year did have a glitzy feel and a slightly different judging process too. The four judges were asked some very important questions. Does the nomination give you goosebumps ? Does the nomination warm the cockles of your heart? Also does the nomination make you feel they deserve to be recognised for their hard work? I must admit, it brought a smile when two of the organisers (in a pre-evening briefing no less) told me the nomination had to leave the judges with a ‘warm, fuzzy feeling’! You may smile too, but on a slightly serious note, many of our communities would fall apart without the tireless work of volunteers. You can’t force a person to volunteer, obviously. The effort of each one comes from the heart.

The awards were also sponsored for the first time this

year by a whole range of local businesses. This was added endorsement of the work of these community champions.

So onto the winners, as it’s only right that each one gets a name-check. I only wish I had room to mention all the nominations as, quite honestly, each one deserves recognition.

There were nine awards, as follows: Volunteer of the Year

Anne Steward. A tireless fundraiser, helping at her church and organising a cricket day at Hethersett and Tas Valley Cricket Club.

Community Wellbeing Champion or Group of the Year

Topcroft Cricket Club, which is successfully managed by 14 dedicated volunteers.

which continues to grow in popularity.

Environmental Champion of the Year

John Heaser. John has developed the Norfolk Freegle website, allowing residents to advertise unwanted and reusable items. He also is passionate about toads and helps protect the County’s population through toad patrols and a band of volunteers.

The Lifetime Community Hero

Heather Williamson.

Heather is 88 and has spent years supporting her community in Hethersett.

She introduced Open Gardens and has organised many litter picks.

Special Recognition Award of the Year

Young Volunteer of the Year

13 year old Owen Leeder. When Owen lost his father he decided to volunteer and help others with the charity that helped him, Nelson’s Journey.

Ray Youngman. Ray has spent more than 60 years dedicating his spare time to his local football teams.

At one time he was doing all of the paperwork for 17 teams ! Dedication indeed.

Community Fundraiser of the Year

Rachel Evans. A colourful character, even her hair is made up of most of the colours of the rainbow! Rachel has raised thousands through sponsored Zumba events ( it’s a form of energetic dance I believe). On one occasion Rachel got all the dancers to dress in ball gowns and trainers !

The South Norfolk Community Awards remind me how lucky I am to be a resident here too, surrounded by so many generous people . I look forward to meeting the next generation of “Community Champions”. Keep up the good work! ●

Business Community Champion of the Year

Bond Street Greengrocers, Hingham. The owner, Janet, delivers groceries to those who can’t get out and even cuts up pineapple for those who can’t manage to do it themselves. Janet also drives people to and from hospital!

Community Group of the Year

Hethersett Dementia Support Group. It’s run by volunteers who have worked hard to make the village a dementia friendly community. Last year they launched the Hethersett Café

Words by Louise Priest Broadcast Journalist BBC Look East

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Words by Geir Madland

review _

Claude Bourbon Six - Stringed Spirit

The French-Swiss guitarist recently played at the Bank in Eye

i n February’s issue, I wrote about a troupe of cancan dancers without mentioning my exotic stepsister, who ran away from England to join the dancers of the Moulin Rouge. She married a Mexican artist and they lived in an apartment too small to house visitors but they had friends, some of them wealthy enough to own swanky penthouses on the Left Bank. From such lofty luxury, as a callow youth one sultry summer, I surveyed the street life of the Rue Mouffetard to the soundtrack of the absent owner’s vinyl collection. I can never listen to Paris Texas without finding myself right back there, and that’s what happened when I went along to the Bank to hear Claude Bourbon.

The Bank is a fabulous music venue. It’s a Grade-II-listed archetypal Edwardian edifice that used to be the Midland Bank until HSBC closed it. After sitting sulkily empty for a few years, it has been reincarnated as the home of Eyes Open, a not-for-profit Community Interest Company dedicated to bringing the arts to Eye residents and vice-versa. continued

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During the day, the Bank, with its everchanging exhibitions of stimulating and mostly local art, is a café serving excellent coffee, a selection of teas (I tend to go for a Blood Orange infusion), homemade cakes and hot food.

My teenage son, ever hungry, is particularly partial to a warm egg sandwich, individually prepared to order by Chris.

The extravagantly bearded Chris, whose sculpture talents reach far beyond sandwiches, is minding the fort at the Bank while BEM-winner Becky is working away in Barcelona.

Waitress Daisy, moonlighting as photographer this evening, is no doubt also destined for cultural greatness.

Classes are offered in a wide range of disciplines: from drawing to djembe drumming, painting to pottery, modern languages to massage, meditation and yoga. Cast your mind back to the high-street bank of old: remember the pocked Perspex panel beneath which you’d slide your paying-in slip towards the waiting cashier?

That’s now a paintbrush holder and centrepiece of the art table. The strongroom downstairs is a soundproofed recording studio.

Indeed, the ingenious way the Bank has been reborn, imaginatively recycling every last piece of the mahoganypanelled interior, allows the daytime arts and crafts classroom-cum-café to be transformed after dark into

an acoustically and atmospherically intimate space for entertainments, of which Jules is in charge. I don’t know how he does it but he gets international artists to stop off at this humble little country town: New York, Paris, Berlin, Eye. Incredible. What a boon!

“All that I try to do is book the best musicians and songwriters from wherever in the world I can find them,” says Jules Talbot. “I don’t like genres, categories or egos and as such I hope our programme of events comes across as eclec-

tic, honest and well worth the price of admission.”

Singer/songwriter and Eye resident Jules, quite capable of courting a crowd himself, must have an address book like an accordion. Canadians Elliott Brood still rank as one of my favourite bands. Whenever they’re back in Europe, I’m sure they’ll stop by in Eye. As Jules introduces Claude onto the stage, the Bank goes quiet. Sometimes that reverent silence can seem a bit inappropriate, but not tonight.

Claude’s guitar playing is quite

“My guitarist friend muses mute and Malbec-mellowed through this masterclass, and Claude’s finale veers into a vocally-assisted Vera Lynn. Yes, Vera Lynn!”

STORIES

Forgotten Ray Rumsby& Stuff of Dreams Theatre

me, it is the most beautiful part of England. Lovely and flat.”

Now based in Portsmouth, Claude is off to Malaga tomorrow. This was his second trip to Eye and, as he assured us, we’ll meet again. Bank on it at thebankeye.org.

Coming up in April are: Essex-born Kevin Pearce – “reminiscent of Cat Stevens and Nick Drake” – and Rotterdam’s Mark Lotterman – often compared with Nick Cave, Johnny Cash and Tom Waits, and supported by none other than Jules Talbot.

April also sees two drama productions: Forgotten, “the true story of Peter Grimes, and of George Crabbe, its true author”, a new play by Ray Rumsby, performed by Stuff of Dreams Theatre; and An Evening with David Howgego, a series of plays and readings presented by Eyes Write.

The only problem with this otherwise perfect place for my money is the bar prices - far too affordable. Claude was extraordinarily tolerant. Must be a French thing. Salut, mon brave! ●

Mark Lotterman

Kevin Pearce

literally awesome, tackling everything from Edvard Grieg and Joaquin Rodrigo to Ry Cooder and Tony Joe White, all infused with a bluesy Gallic self-deprecating humour.

“I hope I’m not wasting too much of your time,” quips Claude, coolly seguing into a seasonally serendipitous Summertime. My guitarist friend muses mute and Malbecmellowed through this masterclass, and Claude’s finale veers into a vocally-assisted Vera Lynn. Yes, Vera Lynn!

“It was a really good gig tonight,” Claude avows appreciatively afterwards. “Nobody left!”

“I don’t play anything properly, any genre, I just make it up.” According to music website reverbnation.com, classically trained Claude sounds like JJ Cale, Bob Dylan, Ritchie Blackmore, Mark Knopfler and Eric Clapton. Does that leave anyone out?

“My wife is my agent and she found this place. Today I didn’t have much to do so I drove around the country, across Norfolk and Suffolk. To

April 2016

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Commission Work Undertaken Lampshade Making, DĂŠcoupage & Furniture Painting Workshops Available 10c Red House Yards, Thornham Magna, Eye, Suffolk, IP23 8HH (Thornham Walks) Tel: 01379 788820 www.facebook.com/beachicdesign www.beachicdesign.co.uk

Gardeners Gifts

Favour Boxes

Pots & Planters

Painted Umbrellas

Basketware

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01379 643138

5 shelfanger road / diss

HOME & DESIGN

YLM

After the first few good days of sunshine we can’t help thinking about the first bar-b-que of the year and getting the house party ready!

dream a liTtle dream of summer 01

{ the great british summer }

Cocktail Cart in Rose Gold From hipster homes to restaurants and every great party in between the drinks trolley is back and here to stay.

As an alternative side table with a favourite lamp and stacked with all your much loved magazines or with your very best cocktail kit and pineapple shaped ice bucket this 1920’s design classic is rolling back.

High five the hi tea and the cocktail hour.

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sistersg u i l d . c o . u k

Liberty Mixed Patterns Party Garland

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HOME & GARDEN

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It’s time to start sowing seeds and taking cuttings to fill your garden with beautiful flowers -

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sow exci ing

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“First hoe or clear any weeds , if you’re growing in rows, use the sharp point of the hoe to create a shallow trench not more than a few centimetres deep, sprinkle the seeds sparingly along the trench and then gently rake the earth back over, don’t forget to mark where the row begins and ends!”

W H A T ’ S H A PP E N I N G I N G abriel ’ s G arden ?

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April 2016

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t he garden and surrounding countryside is transformed in April as the bare branches of winter recede and vanish under the fresh new clothes of spring. Hawthorn flowers fill the hedgerows, Primroses and Cowslips bring cheer to the verges and clumps of sweet scented violets hug the ground on sheltered banks and secluded places.

This spring has been a long time coming, I’m hoping for a warmer drier month as the ground in the garden has suffered from all the rain we’ve had. Some plants have really struggled, I’ve lost my lovely Pulsatilla Vulgaris, it likes well drained soil and just about copes with my clay but not this year. Some of the early tulips have rotted in the wet ground and The lily of the valley have literally lifted themselves out of the earth! With a silent prayer and everything crossed let’s hope that the longer daylight hours will bring a little more sunshine and a few less showers.

It’s not all doom and gloom, the polytunnels provide the first crop of flowers; wonderful Sweet Williams in a myriad of colours, early stocks with their

Words by Gabi Reid Gabriel’s Garden

“the polytunnels provide the first crop of flowers; wonderful Sweet Williams in a myriad of colours, early stocks with their heady scent and the peony like flower of Ranunculus which flowers in various shades including the most delicate of pinks; all are fabulous for cutting and are beautiful tied with the first of the unfurling buds and leaves.” heady scent and the peony like flower of Ranunculus which flowers in various shades including the most delicate of pinks; all are fabulous for cutting and are beautiful tied with the first of the unfurling buds and leaves.

In April you can sow annual and hardy annual seeds directly into the ground where you want them to flower, but make sure the ground isn’t too cold as they will struggle to germinate. A good way to check whether it’s the right time to sow is to see whether the weeds have started to grow! If there are tiny weed seedlings showing you will know that the soil is warm enough to make a start. First hoe or clear any weeds , if you’re growing in rows, use the sharp point of the hoe to create a shallow trench not more than a few centimetres deep. Then, sprinkle the seeds sparingly along the trench and then gently rake the earth back over, don’t forget to mark where the row begins and ends! If you want to create drifts of flowers amongst established borders, clear the areas between clumps of perennials and shrubs with a hoe, ensuring there is plenty of space and light for the seedlings to grow. Alternatively sow seeds into pots and seed trays;

they’ll be ready to plant out into their flowering positions by the end of May beginning of June. As a general rule, annual plants will be in flower 12 weeks from sowing and if you keep cutting, the flowers will keep going all summer long.

The ground in the garden here in Gissing is heavy clay and can stay really quite cold until mid May, I warm the soil up by using black Mypex; a membrane sheeting that is a great weed suppressant, allows water through and absorbs the sun’s rays, warming the soil underneath. Invest in a roll of fleece (available to buy from garden centres) just in case of late frosts, lay the fleece on top of young seedlings to protect them from low and freezing temperatures.

Prune any winter flowering shrubs like Viburnum Tinus, Camellia and Mahonia once they have finished flowering, I’m curious about a Japanese method of pruning called nikwani or ‘cloud pruning’ it is a technique of pruning and training evergreen shrubs and trees to resemble the shape of clouds. The end result is very pleasing, turning the evergreen structures within the garden into gentle shapes with soft edges. Plants suitable for this method are Box, Yew, Privet and some Pines.

I’m taking a bit of a gamble and trying it out on a rather overgrown Viburnam, it might take a couple of years but I think the effect will be worth it.

The Dahlias that have been dormant all winter are boxed up in crates with the tubers sitting in a mixture of compost and sand; after a gentle watering buds start to appear around the base of last year’s stems, they grow into vigorous shoots which are perfect for taking cuttings. Use a

sharp knife and remove a shoot that is 3 -4 inches long with a little bit of the main tuber attached, take off the lower leaves close to the main stem, dip the end into rooting powder shaking off the excess and plant in a pot with 2 - 3 other cuttings making sure the leaves are not touching.

Water the cuttings gently then place a clear plastic bag over the top to form a homemade propagator using pea sticks or shortened canes to hold the plastic away from the leaves, put in a cool greenhouse or conservatory for 4 - 5 weeks. The cuttings should quickly develop roots and will be ready to be potted on into individual pots.

Plant outside when the risk of frost is over and you should have one or two flowers in the first year. ● — For more details about workshops, to book a place or to order flowers, 01379 677793 hello@gabrielsgarden.co.uk gabrielsgarden.co.uk

D i a ry —

I’ll be running floral workshops through the Diss Corn Hall programme this summer starting with a midsummer workshop creating a beautiful hand tied bunch of the very best flowers from the garden.

m ids u m m er w orkshop Wednesday 22nd June Designer Makers 21, Diss (Please contact the Corn Hall booking office in Diss to book a place on this workshop)

Gabriel’s Garden Open Day Sunday 24rd July 10.30am - 4.30pm 4 Common Road, Gissing IP22 5UR Come and have a wander round the garden, there’ll be plants for sale, tea and cake.

W H A T ’ S H A P P E N I N G I N G a brie l ’ s G a rden ?

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HOME & GARDEN

Wonderful, versatile and warm, see what wood can do

We currently have editorial opportunities in the Home & Garden section. Enquiries to 01379 669299 | ben@ylm.co.uk

Mahogany

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walnut

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hat’s the difference between wood and timber?

None really; we usually refer to a standing, growing tree as ‘wood’, when it is felled and sawn as ‘timber’ and when we make things with it as ‘wood’.

If you look round your home you will see many things made of wood. Obvious things like wood panelling, furniture, door and window frames; but the less obvious include paper, photographs and toothpaste.

Toothpaste contains carboxy-methal cellulose which is basically pulped up wood.

In Africa, sticks of Diospyros are used for cleaning the teeth as it contains antifungal bacteria, which combat gum

Teak

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ebony

disease and tooth decay.

From the very earliest times, man has used wood for tools and weapons, buildings, furniture or fuel for his fires.

Archaeologists often date primitive cultures by the material men used for the cutting and shaping of timber – stone, bronze and iron axe heads.

The axe head may have altered but the shaft has been the same for thousands of years – tough and supple ash.

Mahogany

Mahogany was first brought to Europe by the Spanish from Central and South America in the 16th Century and is the collective name for several species. It has a distinctive red-brown colour with dark figuring. As well as being beautiful, it is impervious to rot and woodworm and therefore prized in cabinet making. walnut

Words by Joan Garnham Waveney Tree Specialists

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The heart wood is warm greyish brown timber with a hint of chocolate and pinkish hue and incredibly stable and durable. It is prized as a veneer and for making gun stocks and wood sculptures.

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oak

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BEECH

Teak

Originally from India, Burma and Indonesia, now it is widely planted in Central America. It has golden brown heartwood and is extremely strong and durable. Teak is used in all manner of things including furniture, boats, staircases and sea defences, as it is resistant to fungal decay and even to termites and marine borers. ebony

There are two main types of ebony; African which comes from West Africa and Madagascar and East Indian Ebony which comes from Sri Lanka and southern India. It is used in furniture and sculpture but probably best known for making the black piano keys, castanets and chess men. oak

There are more than 450 species of oak. The most popular are known as the ‘white oaks’ and come from Britain, America and Japan. It has creamy sapwood, yellow brown heart wood with silver grey veining and is one of the world’s most popular timbers.

Because of its strength and straight grain, it is used in

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PINE

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ELM

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construction – most of the tithe barns, churches and cathedrals have oak beams.

Once, oak was the mainstay of boat building resulting in huge areas of oak woods being felled.

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Testimony BEECH

Beech wood is hard, strong and heavy but it lacks toughness and is therefore rarely used outdoors. It is excellent for mass produced goods as it is easy to work in any direction. It is versatile wood for furniture, short tool handles and flooring. Is easily bent after steam treatment and suitable for laminating – when rotary peeled it yields large sheets of attractive veneer.

Waveney Tree Specialists “Recently YLM approached us about advertising in the new jobs section. As a result of the new advertisement we placed we had seven responses and subsequently employed one of the candidates.”

spruce

This is a group of 20 evergreen conifers from the northern hemisphere. The two most popular are Norway spruce from northern Europe and Sitka spruce from North America.

Both are used widely for interior building work and pallets. Sitka is favoured for pulp for newspapers.

PINE

Pinus sylvestris occurs right across Eurasia and is one of the heaviest softwoods.

It is often used in the manufacture of economy furniture and for general building work. In Britain it is the main timber used for railway sleepers and telegraph poles.

ELM

Elm occurs right across northern temperate regions. The heartwood is dull brown with reddish tinge and irregular growth rings. It is water resistant and the Romans used elm for water conduits.

The Rialto Bridge in Venice stands on Elm piles. Sadly because of Dutch Elm disease the timber is now in short supply.

WILLOW

The light weight, long fibres and straight grain of the willow is put to good use in making cricket bats. The ‘cricket bat’ willow, Salix alba, is grown mainly in Norfolk, Suffolk and Sussex. The basket willow, osier or withy is grown mainly in Somerset and is coppiced every year to make long straight lengths for basket weaving.

Hazel is sometimes woven in to give extra strength. ● ●

your lifest yle maga zine DELIVERED TO 11,000 HOMES IN NORFOLK & SUFFOLK EVERY MONTH

be part of it 01379 669 299 |

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01379 668638 | treesurgeons-norfolk.co.uk

April 2016

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[ BEAUTIFUL IMAGES THAT INSPIRE ]

CAPTURE

PHOTOGRAPHY Wendy Aiken

Go and Explore!

Weird and Wonderful Wood Saturday 14th & Sunday 15th May A specialized art and craft event with a difference, dealing solely in wood.

For those with a capacity for wonder it will be a celebration of wood work and wood workers.

Haughley Park, Wetherden, Nr Stowmarket, IP14 3JY haughleyparkbarn.co.uk weirdandwonderfulwood.co.uk

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Words by Mark Aiken

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Wotcha!

Mawther (gal) hev just got back from Finland. Suomi if yer loike – you might remember seein’ that on stamps when you were collectin’ as a kid. Bit loike Helvetia – remember where that is? The ones I struggled wiv were Greece. Looked a bit loike Greece spelt backards. It remind me that when I were setting up an email thingy – you know what I mean, course yer do, - it wouldn’t let me use me own name as an address; daft I call it, so, anyway I put it in backards.

Anyway, so mawther hev jest got back from a skiing trip to Finland – noooo!, she didn’t ski there, though I spuse you could say she were ‘jet’ propelled there as she did fly. She were getting fed up wiv no snow here!

Plus of course it was an opportunity to catch up with family. Being one of thirteen children that take some doing!

The picture you see is her family

Me daughter say, “you can’t do that, dad, everyone ‘ll think you think backards! I thought that were pretty good. The manager at Royal Mail who took me into management said once that I was a lateral thinker. I thought that were thinkin’ backards. As soon as I could I looked it up in me Collins and, yep, sure enuff it is thinkin’ backards. This is a true story this is and I hoop that Heidi wassername reads this cos a light will come on in her head.

home in Finland, and I think you’ll agree thass a tidy bit o’ snow around the house. When I look at it it makes me realize that there are toddlers who’ve never seen or played in real snow in this country. Not like we used to git years ago as they say.

However, like the rest of the world, Finland is affected by global warming and they are not, for instance, guaranteed snow at Christmas time! Oive bin there at minus 30C though, but

HOME & GARDEN

KEEP YER HEEL DOWN BOR FINNISH EDITION!

because it’s a dry cold you can feel colder here at plus 5C on a damp winter’s day!

Often, though, because it’s a dry cold you can’t make a snowball. It just falls to pieces!

So what is a gardening year like in Finland? Not much different to here really. In fact, on the 7th March just gone, while mawther were back home, it were colder here than in Finland! We had minus 2C and they had minus 1C. Their growing season is shorter than ours though – which is why they are unable to grow broad beans. It allus riles me, however, as they are usually pickin’ tomatoes before we are! Once their

spring comes, end of April/beginning of May, it bursts forth with a bang – not the continuation of winter loike what we get.

Dew yew keep on troshin and remember, sauna is a big part of Finnish culture and the proper way to have it is “Dew yew keep to heat it up to 130C, beat yourselves on troshin!” with birch sticks and then throw yourself into an icy lake. I know, I’ve done it, the trouble is that were before I’d learnt to swim... You gotta laff. Goo on then, laff! ●

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The factors that drive our success when it comes to healthier lifestyle

Do you have a story to tell? t @ylmuk using #yourlifestory

HEALTH

Is being fit & healthy hard?

I

t is often said that being fit and eating healthily is hard.

There’s no denying that for someone who doesn’t usually exercise, to take 2-3 hours or more per week to exercise would be hard. As well as the physical challenge, being active at times when they would usually be watching TV for instance would also be a difficult behaviour to get used to.

That said, exercise is the easier challenge to master.

When we exercise, our body releases a group of chemicals called endorphins. The purpose of these are to block physical pain (allowing you to continue being active) and to create a feeling of euphoria (so you’ll want to do it again).

In a way, we’re actually designed to like being active.

Healthy eating is a very

Words by Kyle Brooks 07935 726358 brookspt.co.uk

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different story, and in nearly every instance, the harder habit to stick with.

Again there are biological reasons for this, this time linked to dopamine. Dopamine serves many purposes, but at this point we’re interested in the role it plays in rewarding behaviour.

The release of dopamine can be triggered by foods, particularly sugar. Intake of sugar causes a large release of dopamine to the reward centre of the brain, the nucleus acumbens.

It might not sound like much of a problem, but with repeated exposure the reward we receive is lessened and we’re driven to consume larger quantities to get the same ‘hit’. In the same way as illegal drugs cause addiction, so can sugar. Think of the last time you had just one fizzy drink and were genuinely satisfied at the end of it. How long ago was it?

This is just one issue and other foods such as cheese have been shown to have addictive qualities for other reasons.

Now let’s think about the practicality of eating healthily.

Imagine all that time cooking meals at the weekend ready for the rest of the week. How boring it must be to eat the same food day in day out.

I’ll be honest, I do it this way myself purely to save time. Whilst having a busy working week of 60 plus hours, it allows me to eat healthily and have enough food to last the day without having to do much.

That said, I know this isn’t for everyone and wouldn’t recommend this approach to most new people starting on their journey towards being healthier.

So now that we understand the challenges and difficulties, let’s see how you can make changes more easily.

If you’ve read the other articles I’ve written for YLM, you’ll know that a big part of what I talk about is finding what motivates you. This is still key, but here we’re looking for practicality.

Exercise doesn’t have to be hugely time consuming or require a gym membership. If your current exercise mostly involves getting off the sofa to wander to the kitchen, you shouldn’t start off by following an exercise regime which doesn’t have graduated levels. In reality, starting small

YLM

is better because you’re less likely to get an injury or find the work rate offputting, meaning your chances of success are improved.

Start off with some simple exercises like press-ups, jump jacks and squats, or go for a short jog, building up the time you run or exercise for as you’re able to manage physically, and as your priorities shift to looking after your health more and looking at your TV less.

Despite what you may think, food can be healthy, easy, time saving and still have variety.

Ready meals and a typical meal people might have like sausages with chips and peas takes just as long to cook as a healthy meal like chicken or fish with pasta and veg in a tomato based sauce.

What’s more, the pasta meal can be cooked in larger quantities to make extra portions which can be kept for another meal.

Put them in the fridge for the next day or 2, or in the freezer if you want it later in the week. Cooking a healthy meal has now saved you time!

If you want to add variety to your meals because you get bored of the same foods easily, it really comes down to planning. Write down around 15 meals that would be healthy and you’d enjoy eating. If you do this on a computer you could use Excel. If you do it by hand you can simply cut out the meal names.

Once you’ve done this, simply rearrange

the meals into different orders and combinations to ensure you have lots of variety. Take a photo on your phone or print the different weeks from your computer.

Now your weeks are easily organised, all you have to do is buy the items needed when you do the shopping.

As well as making shopping easier, it should mean you avoid something we’ve all experienced, having lots of food in the house, but nothing to eat.

I want to take you back to the title of this article.

“Is being fit and healthy hard?”

To answer that I need to ask you a question, but before you answer take some time to think of your day-to-day life.

Would your life and daily tasks be easier if you were fit and healthy?

Hopefully you came to what I feel is the true answer, that by being fitter and healthier your life would actually be easier.

Not just in terms of what we’ve already discussed, but by the fact that simple tasks like walking to the shops wouldn’t be as laborious. Your energy levels would be more consistent. Your sleep more settled.

Wouldn’t that make your life easier?

So yes, being fit and healthy can be challenging, but in the long run it’s far easier than being unfit and unhealthy.

What’s more you’ll have a longer life to find things easy in. l

recruiting now Mental HealtH act Managers (Voluntary)

The Mental Health Act Associate Hospital Managers are a committee of lay people (similar to School Governors) who perform a vital role in helping to protect the interests of patients detained in hospital under the Mental Health Act 1983. Lay panel members are not expected to have a background in mental health although an interest in this area is preferable. The position of Associate Hospital Manager is voluntary, although travelling expenses and an honorarium fee are paid.

We are seeking to recruit new Managers so if you can spare a few hours a month and would like to make a difference to the care of people with mental health needs please contact Roberta Holland via the following.

01379 649900 | roberta.holland@partnershipsincare.co.uk Partnerships in Care Learning Disability Services St John’s House Palgrave IP22 1BA

COMING UP

VS

Friday 29th July | From 7pm Tickets £10

CHARITY DANCE WITH

BACKSTREET

Sat 16th July | 8pm - till late

UNFORGETTABLE A TRIBUTE TO

NAT KING COLE Sun 24th April | From 5.30pm For the first time Mark Anthony brings to the stage this new and exciting show 'The unforgettable Nat King Cole'. Celebrating the life and music of one of the worlds greatest entertainers, supported by a quartet of some of East Anglia's finest musician's.

#livewell

All tickets £12

Tickets £5

All proceeds to Pancreatic Cancer and Brain Tumour research

29 Denmark Street, Diss T 01379 642244 www.parkhotel-diss.co.uk

How modern and traditional treatments can offer the ideal skin perfection combo

Do you have a story to tell? t @ylmuk using #yourlifestory

HEALTH

}

A

t last the longer days are here and from time to time the delicious heat of the sun can be felt upon our faces. But winter has left its mark on most of the clients I’m seeing at the moment. A combination of harsh winds and high central heating has left skin parched and devitalised. Although it’s great to keep your water intake nice and healthy, drinking two pints of the clear stuff isn’t going to make a difference when the skin is lipid (oil) dry too. And the older we get the less our oil glands provide that essential protection on the surface of the skin. It’s like the icing on the cake has been scoffed, the jam nibbled away and the cake underneath is a crumbly dry version of its new-baked luscious self. So this month we’re going to look at how low-tech luxury and high-tech efficiency can both provide clients with great results to

Words by Geraldine Walters Btec HND/Cert Ed.

refresh and rejuvenate in different ways.

The quintessential Continental facial is the one that forms the basis of all luxury spa skin treatments, providing temporary relief from dryness and a general sense of wellbeing and deep relaxation.

Cocooned in a duvet, or on a heated couch the ritual begins with good cleansing and exfoliation for a clear canvas to work on. Then, the magic is in the massage which warms the muscles and stimulates the oil glands in the skin.

With warm hands, mitts and oils and serums, such as Hyaluronic Acid, this deluxe facial can address fine lines and poor circulation and produce a surge of moisture to the surface of the skin.

Antioxidants, such as Vitamin C, focus on damage to the décolleté, and neck to offer a radiant complexion, but long term results will depend on a regular home regime.

At the other end of the spectrum is hard-core science and visible results. If you can see sun spots or thread veins along with open pores and fine lines, this is the time to say ‘hello’ to technology and the ‘Photofacial’.

A no-fuss-no-frills procedure, it actually comprises a series of Intense Pulsed Light

treatments that improve sun damaged skin, addressing both texture and tone. You won’t even need to undress – a fact that is very appealing to most men who love its clinical attraction and there’s not a perfumed cream or oil in sight. Another plus is that IPL can also treat the chest, arms and hands – all places where those sun spots take their toll.

In brief, an intense light is applied in a series of gentle flashes over the treatment area. Without damaging the skin, the light penetrates and is absorbed by the abnormally dilated vessels or pigmentation. From this intrusion under the skin new collagen begins to form and rises to the surface to create a smoother healthier, and radiant skin tone. The heat causes damage to the vessel or brown patch, and the body begins its natural healing process. The brown patch will darken before it flakes off, or the body absorbs it. Treatments are ideally spaced every three or four weeks. Usually several treatments are needed, but the results are long lasting – and can be topped up annually.

And who’s to know, when you’re having your handson-utterly-sublime- facial au naturelle, that your perfect skin is a result of the IPL you had the month before?

Sometimes, you can have the best of both worlds. l

#livewell

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cake has been scoffed, the jam nibbled away and the cake underneath is a crumbly dry version of its new-baked

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Testimony Potters Resort YLM offers readers a great range of quality content, and with specially selected advertiser you can be assured that your brand or product will not be compromised. All the YLM team are very friendly and are great to work with.

We’re so pleased that Potters Resort found YLM to promote our range of inclusive short breaks.

luscious self.”

x For more information

Geraldine Walters Advanced Skincare 01379 658982 | 07787718791 geraldinewalters.co.uk

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April 2016

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make time for you BUY ONE SPA DAY & GET THE 2ND ½ PRICE* GO ON, YOU DESERVE IT! GYM MEMBERSHIP FROM £25 *T&C's apply

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HEALTH

YLM

5 products Step 3

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A powder veil which when

5 m in u tes

applied to the cheeks warms to your skintone giving a natural flush to the skin and a healthy glow in seconds. First smile of the day look into the mirror

m in ute m a keov er

smile and softly apply this product to the apples of your cheeks.

5 products Top To Bottom: No7 Bb Cream | Yves Saint Laurent Radiant Touch | Dior Rosy Glow Powder | Lancome Hypnose Mascara | Dior Lip Maximiser

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different sizes jeans in thing in a rush evenofour makeup.

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Yves Saint Laurent Radiant Touch This is the best selling makeup product in the world.

This highlighter/concealer pen is fantastic for minimizing dark circles evens out skintone on the eyelid brightening tired eyes. One click away from beautiful fresh eyes.

For further information on the right makeup products for you, Dionne & Rachel offer a makeup bag makeover lesson. We find out how much time you have to do your makeup, and sort through the products you have making them work hard for you for

Makeup Bag Makeover

everyday living.

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01379678117 | 07511 383953

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Words by Dionne & Rachel Defining Radiance

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Wendy Aiken Photography

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2017 NOw TAkiNg bOOkiNgs

A M O M E N T. A M E M O R Y 01379 669 299 | wendyaikenphotography.co.uk

Wendy Aiken PhotogrAPhy

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At Man About Town not only do you have a superb choice of mens clothing from smart-casual to formal wedding hire, there’s also a warm welcome and great customer service from Adrian and Alison

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S t . N i c o l a s S treet , D I S S

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Mon - F ri 9 . 3 0 a m - 5 p m | S a t 9 . 3 0 a m - 4 p m

Enquiries 01379 652575 manatmenswear.co.uk

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his month I decided to talk about underwear and more especially bras. Apparently 80% of women are wearing the wrong size bra. An ill fitting bra can lead to problems such as backache, neck ache and even migraines.

Also the wrong shaped bra can have a profound effect on your outfit. However its not surprising that we all get a little confused about what we should wear…just think about it, in the 40’s & 50’s we were told to push them out, the 20’s and 70’s was the era to push them down and then in the noughties it was the time to flaunt them!

We decided that this was such a difficult subject for many women so last year we contacted Sweet Dreams in Woodbridge and the lovely ladies came along to a Bra Fitting Workshop held at Dream On, which was such a success. For this article I decided to contact Sarah again and ask her some questions on the subject…this is what she told me…

Why is it important to have your bra fitted?

At least 8 out of 10 women who walk though our shop door for the first time are wearing the wrong size bra. Most of these women are wearing a bra too small in the cup and too big around the band. A badly

fitting bra can cause all sorts of problems from back and neck pain to uncomfortable chaffing. A great fitting bra can support your bust, take pressure off your back and shoulders, help your posture and make you look slimmer.

How regularly do you need to have your bra fitted?

All women will experience changes in the size and shape of their breasts throughout their life.

Pregnancy, breast feeding, getting older and simply gaining or losing a little weight will all alter your bra size and the shape of bra which fits you best. The menopause is also an important time as it is reported that many women can go up at least a dress size during this time.

It is best to get your bra size checked every time you buy a bra and preferably every six months.

why there are so many different shapes available. You will have your own personal fitter to guide you through the extensive range of bras we have to offer. Feel free to take as long as you want and ask lots of questions!

Do you need to make an appointment?

You do not need to make an appointment but leave yourself at least half an hour so you don’t feel rushed.

So if you are unsure if your current bra is right for you or you have niggling pain that could be attributed to this matter then do just pop along to the lovely ladies at Sweet Dreams, they will be there to help you. ●

Sweet Dreams 45A Thoroughfare

What you can expect from a bra fitting

Woodbridge

and Consultation at Sweet Dreams?

IP12 1AH

We want you to be relaxed during your fitting and to leave feeling like a new woman! We are aware that you may feel a little nervous if you have not been fitted before but we are there to help put you at ease so please don’t feel embarrassed. We want you to understand how a bra should fit you and the shapes best suited to your body and your wardrobe. Not every bra will fit every women even in their size, which is

sweetdreams-lingerie.co.uk

Words by Amanda Church Dream On Get involved via f

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GLORIOUS GARDENS

‘Urban Retreat’ by Adam Frost for Homebase RHS Chelsea 2015

wer and Dig out the mo wellies. ider from your sp e th ve ie retr s ar rived SHOW season ha

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WOMeN in BUSINESS

Louise Thompson Play. Make. Create.

A creative mum of two boys with 16 years experience in ‘Early Years’ and Education.

Play. Make. Create. sessions provide fun art & craft activities for kids during the holidays and for your birthday party or event. If you can’t get to a Play. Make. Create. workshop why not order a ‘Craft Bag’ to do at home?

The Next session, ‘All about the Love’, is in February half term, spaces are limited so booking is essential. Come and play!

Charlotte Nicolls The Camargue Cafe A warm welcome awaits you at The Camargue Cafe where Charlotte and Sherry will serve you delicious homemade meals, snacks and refreshments. Situated within the award winning Valley Farm Equestrian Leisure facility, The Camargue Cafe also offers workshops for adults and children throughout the year, give them a call for more details.

Katie Nice Portrait Artist

— The Blossom Charity supports women in business through coaching and workshops in, for example, marketing yourself and your business, business budgeting and how to lead teams.

They have supported the businesses on this page and would love you to do so too.

For more information, 01379 678483 www.dream-on.co.uk

Katie creates realistic, handdrawn portraits using watercolour and pencils. She has recently left college and has just turned a hobby into a business. Katie draws people as well as pets, working from photographs in a choice of colour, or black and white. See more of her artwork on her new Facebook page -Katie Nice Portraits.

Louise Cobbold | Illustrator After ten really enjoyable years as a secondary school art teacher (off the back of a degree in illustration), I am really excited to now be following my dream as a freelance artist.

I am a wife and mum of two with a real passion for producing high quality portraits of different scales/ styles for my clients. My approach is relaxed and very realistic from the outset in terms of what can be achieved within different budgets.

VENTURE

YLM

Can anyone be

artistic?

-

“Your right brain is your nonverbal and intuitive brain; it thinks in patterns, or pictures, composed of ‘whole things,’ and does not comprehend reductions, either numbers, letters, or words.” continued

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Official

L Ap top R e pA i R CentRe

Carpets Hardfloors Upholstery Telephone 0800 234 3412 • 01379 678806 • 07984 648296 Harleston

01379 851 117 Attleborough

01953 454 370 info@ulric.net

Email crystalcleannorfolk@hotmail.co.uk visit our website carpetcleanernorfolk.co.uk

VENTURE

YLM

I n YLM this month, we celebrate some fantastic artistic talent. I have always admired

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Would you like to do something artistic? Would you like to believe that you could create something?

If the answer is yes read on!

In the summer of 2016 we are running a series of workshops to help people who would like to be creative to have a go. We have some fantastic teachers coming to visit who will run these.

One course we are running is for people who want to be artistic but don’t think they are. Last time we ran this, all those attending left with two pictures that they had created in watercolour. All of whom wanted to put them in frames and hang them at their homes. In the course we use the approach of Betty Edwards ‘Drawing on the right side of the brain’.

As Richard Bergland, an eminent scientist and neurosurgeon says in his book ‘Fabric of Mind’, “You have two brains: a left and a right.

Modern brain scientists now know that your left brain is your verbal and rational brain; it thinks serially and reduces its thoughts to numbers, letters and words… Your right brain is your nonverbal and intuitive brain; it thinks in patterns, or pictures, composed of ‘whole things,’ and does not comprehend reductions, either numbers, letters, or words.”

The fact is we can often try to use our rational logical brain to draw and guess what? It doesn’t produce good results. We need to use both sides.

At the workshop we use techniques to use both the right and left side of the brain to draw and paint.

It is quite a revelation to see when we stop the rational brain working to see what people are able to do.

If you are like me, always wanted to create something, I’d encourage you to have a go. Either come and see us or find somewhere else to go to.

In the area there are lots of other places to go to create art. For example, I was recently at the Arts centre in Eye, The Bank.

They run some fantastic workshops to try.

What’s interesting is that the process of making art is good for all of us. Of course there are many different forms of art, whether that be writing, photography, painting, singing, dancing, or anything in between. There is evidence that we gain both physical and mental benefits from creating art, expressing ourselves in a tangible way.

In today’s world we rarely switch off. Art can help you do this as you have to concentrate and express yourself in a different way.

I know for me, now when I do take time to do art, I’m in a happier place. Fortunately, the voice of my art teacher no longer resonates when I pick up a paintbrush! ●

Wo ul d y o u lik e t o b e lie v e t h a t y o u c o ul d c r e a t e s o m e t hin g ?

people who are creative and produce beautiful interesting works of art.

My husband and I are avid watchers of Sky portrait artist of the year and love seeing how different eyes interpret the same image.

We became big fans of Christian Hook and even made the journey to Edinburgh to see the work that was commissioned of Alan Cummings. It was amazing to see how he had captured his character.

I always said I wanted to be creative but that I was rubbish at art at school. Every time I picked up pens or a pencil, the words of my art teacher came into my head “So Bridget what are you trying to draw?“or “It’s a shame you haven’t got the same talent as your sister.” Not very helpful comments I think! No wonder I thought that I was rubbish.

I have since learnt that I can be artistic and when I am doing art I really enjoy myself.

The sad truth is that often only those who believe they are artistic actually pursue this as a pastime. The British artist Damien Hirst once said, “That’s the great thing about art. Anybody can do it if you just believe. With practice you can make great paintings.” You may disagree with this and believe that it is only a gift that we either have or don’t have.

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To find out about the creativity workshops run at Dream On please email Katie@dream-on.co.uk

Words by Bridget McIntyre The Blossom Charity

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01379 669 299 | ben@circuitmedia.co.uk | l Circuit Media UK

SALES PEOPLE REQUIRED

THE WINDOW OF OPPORTUNITY

Are you missing out on easy referrals?

You Just Might Be!

#relationships

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here are eight different types of people that can pass you referrals, and one of those eight is your STAFF! Every single person that works for your company has a vested interest in your business being successful, as it ensures the salary is there every week.

In addition to the continued success of the company, and the added value they bring to their role in the organisation, a hopeful future for everyone is ensured.

A key consideration in this conversation will be to expand your thinking so that all of your employees could potentially pass you business, not limiting yourself just to the sales staff. You could encourage all your staff to be on the lookout for new clients, including your receptionist, “widget” makers and service people, delivery staff, and the list could go on and on.

There are a few crucial points to follow when creating referral sources from your staff. First, you are going to need to arm your staff with a little bit of education regarding your business, including: 1 Who is an ideal client and who is your target market?

2 Key phrases to listen for and perhaps a list of clues to look for that indicate a person may need your product or service 3 How to create the referral and how to bring the business into the office Additionally, a crucial component of this staff training will be to encourage your staff to horn toot (one of the 16 Relationship Builders from the Certified Networker Program) ; horn tooting is when you reply

to “How are you doing?” with a response that shares positive things happening within the work place.

The next step in creating your staff as referral sources is to arm them with the right marketing material. Collateral material should give your staff a sense of pride in what you do as well as identify their role within the team, and allow you to keep your branding consistent!

On the card: 1 Employee’s name and title 2 Company’s website and social media information 3 The staff member’s direct contact information, including a personalised email instead of info@insertgenericemailprovider.com 4 The basic product/services/benefits offered by your company, as your staff may not be as fluent in the language of your business Finally, be sure to recognise and reward your staff for bringing you business!

Whether you’re just getting started in the networking world or you’re a seasoned networker, we would love to get your feedback on any additional tips which you’ve found to be particularly effective. philburton@ referralinstitutenr.co.uk or to katrina@referralinstitutenr.co.uk

Phil & Katrina Burton Referral Institute Norfolk

VENTURE

pay must be “broadly equivalent” to your normal weekly pay. Recent cases say that your employer should take account of any non-guaranteed but paid overtime when calculating your holiday pay. A common way of doing this is by working out an average of your total number of

#sickasapug

A If you have been off work due to sickness for a long time, you may not receive sick pay. If so, taking holiday during your sickness absence could be a way to temporarily increase your income.

Under European law, it is your choice whether or not to take your statutory holiday entitlement during a period of sick leave.

However, if you do so this may have an impact on any benefits you are receiving. You should also consider whether, once you have returned to work, you will want to take holiday and enjoy it properly. If you decide to take holiday during sick leave, it must be booked off in the normal way.

Similar rules also apply if you become sick during a period of booked holiday. In this case, you can decide that you would like to take your holiday

Other points to consider

Can my employer refuse my request for holiday or tell me when to take leave?

Yes. If your employer has rules about booking leave set out in your contract, or in a handbook, then you should follow those rules. If not, then the statutory rules will apply.

The statutory rules say that if you wish to book holiday, you should give your employer notice twice the length of time you want to take off work. You should also be aware that your employer can require that you take certain days as paid holiday by giving you the same amount of notice.

Your employer might also decide that they do not want you to take holiday at a particular time. If so, your employer can refuse your request by giving you notice equal to the amount of time you want to take as holiday.

For example, if the statutory rules apply and you want to take a week’s leave, you must give your employer two weeks’ advance notice. If your employer does not want you to take holiday that week, they must give you notice refusing your request at least one week before the start of your holiday.

hours and pay, including overtime, over the previous 12 weeks but there are as yet no firm rules.

These rules do not apply to the additional 1.6 weeks’ entitlement under UK law and your holiday pay for this time can be based on your normal, or basic, wage if you have one. Your employer could decide, however, to pay you more (but not less) than UK law requires.

It is up to your employer to decide how to pay you for any holiday entitlement over and above your statutory holiday entitlement. These rules might be set out in your contract of employment.

If you think that your holiday pay has been calculated incorrectly, you should take advice quickly, as strict time limits apply if you wish to bring an employment tribunal claim. ●

For further advice on this, or any other legal issue, please contact the employment team at

I do a lot of paid overtime, should this be taken into account when working out my holiday pay?

The short answer is yes, at least for the first four weeks of your holiday entitlement.

Under European law, your holiday

If I take more time off work will I lose my holiday?

be to an employee in my position – does such an entitlement apply? I am keen to investigate any way of preserving my income at what is a difficult time for me and my family, both personally and financially.

We currently have editorial opportunities in the Venture section. Enquiries to 01379 669299 | ben@ylm.co.uk

another time but you must tell your employer that you are sick as soon as possible. If you decide to take sick leave instead, you will only be paid for your sick leave entitlement.

Your employer cannot force you to take holiday during your sickness absence.

feeling blue?...

Q

I am currently off work on long term sick leave.

A family member has suggested that I may be entitled to take paid holiday whilst off work sick but I am unsure.

What would your advice

Steeles Law on 01379 652141 or

Words by James Hopgood Solicitor Steeles Law

employment@steeleslaw.co.uk

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MOTORING

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Words by Leighten Ball | Gm Autotech

W

hat is the best car to buy? is one of the most commonly asked questions by my customers. It’s no longer a matter of choosing your preferred manufacturer and then selecting the model of saloon or hatchback, perhaps with just a few other colour and trim options to confirm. Now we have petrol, diesel, hybrid or full electric for power units; body styles ranging from super minis through mini MPVs to full

4x4s. And then there’s the matter of buying new or second hand?

Plus we now have a bewildering array of payment options and ‘addon’ service plans to consider.

So, what is the best car to buy then? I went on a whisky distillery tour and tasting session recently where our guide asked the group what we felt was the best whisky available, and after listening to our opinions and choices he declared that we were all correct! The best whisky is the one that has the taste and flavour that appeals most to you. And the same is true with cars – do your research and ‘tasting’ well and you’ll be rewarded with the car that is best for you.

Whilst I can’t tell you what to buy, I may be able to offer a couple of tips to help you choose. The

first one is petrol or diesel? The diesel’s advantage of superior economy can often be outweighed by a higher price tag, higher fuel costs at the pump and significantly higher maintenance costs. The recent fantastic improvements in diesel refinement, performance and eco credentials have been made possible by advanced engineering solutions – unfortunately this leading edge technology can go wrong with some serious financial consequences. If you are a high mileage user then the diesel argument may stack up, but it pays to do your sums carefully.

How about second hand or new?

If you have traditionally purchased used cars, have a think about buying new, particularly small cars – there are some fantastic deals

out there at the moment. The very small finance payments on new small cars can often be less than the combined annual maintenance and depreciation on an older car. When you add the benefits of the manufacturer’s warranty, potentially cheaper road tax and better reliability, there’s a lot to like.

Negotiate hard with your dealer and you could get better than their advertised offer! ●

BEST BUY Which car & why?

Rise and rise of the compact

NEW ARRIVALS 2016

HYBRID

top MG GS SUV (MAY) | above Kia Niro (Late 2016) | left Audi Q2 (autumn)

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MOTORING

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EVOLUTION OF A CLASSIC

1957 - 2016 HAPPY WHEELS

“The FIAT 500 is an iconic city car that manages to combine style and fun with benefits of impressive running cost and residual values.”

Paul Barker, BusinessCar Editor

Fiat 500 TwinAir (2016) Fiat took a big gamble in 2007

The new generation Fiat 500

in launching the new Fiat 500.

Taking on the MINI with an affectionate reinterpretation of its own icon was no easy thing. But with 1.5 million sales clocked up globally and the new ‘cinquecento’ having spawned the 500L MPV, 500L Trekking, 500L MPW seven-seat MPV and the 500X crossover over recent years, it was a gamble that has clearly paid off.

Time has caught up with Fiat’s bambino though, and the company has responded by updating the 500 with new colours, tech and tweaked engines. — autoexpress.co.uk

spec Engine

875cc 8v 2-cyl turbo, 103bhp @ 5500rpm, 107lb ft @ 2000rpm Transmission

Six-speed manual,

£14,165 OTR

front-wheel drive

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Performance

10.0sec 0-62mph, 117mph, 67.3mpg, 99g/km CO2 Weight / material

940kg / steel

B l u etooth ® +

e c o : D ri v e ™ + U c onne c t ™

April 2016

FROM THE CREATORS OF YLM

things a bit quiet?

Start-Up WebSiteS Don’t forget to ask about Social Media packages

£750 +VAT

WHAT YOU GET 6 Pages 1 Year Domain Name + Hosting Fully Responsive Easily Integration with Social Media Matching Email Accounts Pdf User Guide Basic Search Engine Optimisation 01379 669 299 | ben@circuitmedia.co.uk | l Circuit Media UK

BOOK CLUB

Reviews by Diss Publishing 01379 644612 disspublishing.co.uk

The Saffron Tales Yasmin Khan £26 This beautiful book has the most tempting and tantalising recipes.

Accompanied by atmospheric illustrations and instructive photographs The Saffron Tales combines the sensual with the practical to form a wonderful introduction to Persian cooking.

The true test of a cookery book is how long one can wait to try the recipes and I found myself very impatient to try many of these the moment I read them.

The Adventures of Sir Thomas Browne in the 21st Century Hugh Aldersey-Williams £9.99

01379 669 299 | ben@circuitmedia.co.uk | l Circuit Media UK

SALES PEOPLE REQUIRED

THE WINDOW OF OPPORTUNITY

Sir Thomas Browne was a hugely influential writer who lived in Norwich in the 17th century and whose prose has been celebrated by authors such as Woolf and Sebald. He invented many words including “hallucination” and “incontrovertible,” and is even credited as the first person to use the word “electricity.” Browne was always seeking to question and expand the limits of knowledge by keeping an open mind and Hugh AlderseyWilliams emphasises the relevance both of his achievements and this approach to disovery. A fascinating insight into an overlooked local figure who made important contributions both to science and the English language.

Hugh Aldersey-Williams will be visiting Diss Publishing Bookshop on Thursday, the 7th of April to speak about ‘The Adventures of Sir Thomas Browne in the 21st Century’. The event will start at 7.30pm, tickets are £5 and redeemable against the price of a book on the night

The Reader on the 6.27 Jean-Paul Didierlaurent £7.99 Guylain Vignolles hates his job at the book-pulping factory, in fact his only pleasure in life is reading aloud from pages that he has saved from the pulping machine to a rapt audience each day on the 6.27 train. It’s only when he discovers the diary of a lonely young woman called Julie that his journey truly begins...

At times dark but also hilarious, this story celebrates the power of literature to connect strangers and bring people together.

Spring – An anthology for the changing seasons Edited by Melissa Harrison £12.99 A hugely enjoyable collection of both poetry and prose that celebrates spring. The anthology contains original writing from contemporary writers including Stephen Moss and Rob Cowen. There are also much loved classic extracts from Shakespeare, Dylan Thomas and Kilvert as well as selections from lesser known historical material.

This is the first title of a series of four books that celebrate the changing year.

The Lion Inside Rachel Bright and Jim Field £6.99 Mouse is small and quiet and hardly gets noticed at all. Whereas Lion makes sure that everyone knows just how important he is with a giant roar! Mouse decides that if he wants to make friends, then he needs to be more like Lion and learn how to roar, but there’s only one animal that can teach him how... Mouse is worried Lion might make him into a snack but he decides to be brave and is there something that Lion is afraid of? A sweet and touching story all about courage and how we all have a Mouse and Lion inside.

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#FAITH STORIES

‘Tis a puzzlement!

i glanced up at the clock – it was ridiculously late and with a heavy sigh I had to admit that once again I’d failed miserably in my intention to get an early night. Slowly, and with an audible groan I uncurled my spine, straightening up in a vain attempt to relieve the gnawing pain in my back and neck; it was my own fault. To make matters worse, I had achieved absolutely nothing in the last half an hour and now I was about ready to give up.

After all, this wasn’t a race, or even a competition, and tomorrow was another day.

Then suddenly, as I was about to turn out the light and head wearily up to my waiting bed, I spotted it – the piece that I’d been searching for since half

past one! My fingers trembled slightly as I reached out and took hold of the tiny piece of coloured cardboard, “Gotcha!” To my enormous relief and immense satisfaction it slid easily into its place, no doubt about the fit this time. Motivation returned, and for a while the clock and my aching back were forgotten; I’d go up in a minute, after I’d put in just one more piece …

Why do I find doing jigsaw puzzles so addictive?

I guess life is full of puzzles when you come to think about it, like why does it always seem to rain when I’ve just cleaned the windows?

Why does the first scoop from the new Marmite jar taste so much better than the last scoop from the old one? How does the dentist expect you to answer their questions when your mouth is full of mirrors, drills and suction pipes? Like, why would you ever buy a house in Midsomer? And does anyone know what Tiggers really like best?

But then there are the deeper questions, the real puzzles that keep us awake at night – you know the kind of things I mean – and of course, some are more difficult to understand than others, and some, well some questions are just impossible to answer. So where do we go with these things?

Recently, I heard an interview with a young father who had every reason to be confused and angry, to shake his fist at the heavens and demand to know, “Why?” But he had built his whole life on what he believed to be true, and although his loss and grief caused him great pain, defying all comprehension, his faith in a God who is good and who loves him remained unshaken and secure.

Ho w do e s li f e c ome t o ge t her ?

STORIES

“We have made the choice,” he said, “to continue to believe the truth, and to trust God with the mystery.”

I think I know what he meant; I live with mysteries of my own.

Like the jigsaw puzzles that keep me up far too late, life comes in small pieces, moments and days, and sometimes we struggle to make sense of the bits and how they fit together.

Yet none of the pieces is without value, indeed, all are to be treasured for as the vivid colours of exploration and discovery combine with the pastel shades of routine and the mundane, so the bright splashes of joy and celebrations touch the dark streaks of pain and sorrow.

So let’s press on, even in our puzzlement, for the precious fragments of our lives are being fitted together to create a whole picture, which, when viewed from a certain perspective, has the potential to become a masterpiece of deep, rich and intense beauty. ●

Words by Sue Johnson

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EVENTS

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adventurous april

In April + coming soon

National Mills Weekend Saturday 14th & Sunday 15th May Mills open

SWAFFHAM PRIOR

Bardwell Tower Mill

Fosters Mill Sunday 1pm - 5.30pm

Sunday 10.30am - 4.30pm

Tea and refreshments as well as have a few craft stalls in the garden. Freshly baked bread will be on sale. All proceeds towards the ongoing restoration and maintenance of the mill. Sails turning and milling if windy!

01359 251331 | SAT NAV: IP31 1AD

Repps Wind Engine Museum Potter Heigham Saturday & Sunday 11am - 4pm

debranicholson@windengines.com 01692 670204 SAT NAV: NR29 5JU

STANTON post mill Saturday & Sunday 2pm - 6pm

01359 250622 | SAT NAV: IP31 2AW

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They hope to have a display of vintage power alongside the mill working (wind permitting) and bread baking demonstrations 01638 741009 fostersmill.co.uk SAT NAV: CB25 0JZ

THELNETHAM tower mill Saturday and Sunday 11am - 4pm (last admission for a mill tour 3pm)

01638 741009 thelnethamwindmill.org.uk SAT NAV: IP22 1JZ

THURNE DYKE windpump Sunday 2pm - 4pm

01692 670204 debranicholson@windengines.com SAT NAV: NR29 3BU

MARCH 2016

YLM

on now

What’s On a selection of forthcoming events in our region

Sat 23RD april — Sun 25TH September

Alberto Giacometti A Life & Legacy Dedicated to the work of Alberto Giacometti commemorating the 50th anniversary of the artist’s death. The exhibition will be displayed in the Sainsbury Centre’s mezzanine gallery space and will feature approximately 50 works representing Giacometti’s entire oeuvre. The exhibition will explore a number of key themes including his sources of inspiration, the Sainsbury’s as patrons, his approach to materials and processes and his influence on British artists and sculptors.

until mon May 2nd exhibition Situated on the site of Blacksmiths Cottage Nursery and Shorelands Wildlife Gardens, in rural South Norfolk 5 miles East of Diss, Waveney Gallery is a multi-purpose building encompassing Art Gallery, Coffee Shop, Gift Shop and Conference facilities.

Landscapes, flora and fauna are just some of the topics covered.

Waveney Gallery, IP21 4QA 07952 937081 waveneygallery.co.uk until sat 4th june Eastern Angles presents SOMEWHERE IN ENGLAND Eastern Angles presents a fascinating and moving new theatre production telling the wartime story of the arrival of thousands of American GIs from the 8th US Army Air Force. Nylons, Hershey bars and jitterbugging to Swing Bands in the local village hall all feature but there was another side to this shared history – a tale of segregation and of rural communities turned upside down.

Kids being forced to grow up before their time, friendships forged and then blown apart and outsiders learning to live amongst the locals.

Discover this important story of how the Eastern region was physically and socially affected by the arrival of our friends from across the pond.

Various locations easternangles.co.uk until Sun October 9th The Clangers, Bagpuss & Co. Parents can introduce their little ones to the programmes they watched and adored as wee nippers thanks to this retrospective exhibition of Smallfilms - Oliver Postgate and Peter Firmin’s production company whose fantastic output includes The Clangers, Bagpuss and other creations such as Pogles Wood and Ivor the Engine. The imaginary worlds the pair created have made regular appearances on children’s television for decades, with the cute pink Clangers even returning to screens in 2015 to captivate new audiences.

Objects on show include Postgate’s stop-motion film camera, original puppets, archive footage, sets, storyboards and photos, plus a recreation of the film studio where the magic happened.

V&A Museum of Childhood, Bethnal Green timeout.com

Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts 01603 593199 scva.ac.uk

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Thurs 7th Bird ringing demonstrations Waveney Bird Club’s ringing demonstrations are not to be missed. They offer unique and rare opportunities to experience close encounters with the Minsmere birds - blue tits, green finches and the highly camouflaged reed warblers - you never know what you might see! Join us to discover more about the lives of the Minsmere birds, what migration adventures they have and the important work the club do every year.

RSPB Minsmere 10 am - 4 pm Normal reserve entry fees apply rspb.org.uk Sun 10th Out of the Case Get a close up look at our fantastic collection of Sutton Hoo replica treasures at an informal talk and handling session in our Exhibition Hall. Made by master craftsmen using authentic techniques, our replicas show us what the treasures would have looked like 1400 years ago.

Sutton Hoo, IP12 3DJ 1.30pm & 2.30pm 01394 389700 nationaltrust.org.uk Sat 16th 70s/80s Disco By popular request due to the great success of this previous event we’re doing it all again!

So, boogie on down to Pennoyer’s for the best selection of 70s and 80s disco music, retro snacks, cocktails, prizes and more.

Pennoyer Centre, Pulham St. Mary From 7.30pm | £5 door £4.50 advance 01379 676660 | pennoyers.org.uk BANFF MOUNTAIN FILM FESTIVAL The UK and Ireland Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour offers audiences the opportunity to travel the world and experience a selection of exhilarating, inspirational, and unforgettable adventures from the contrasting comfort of a theatre chair.

The festival tour showcases a diverse collection of the newest and very best films from the global mountain culture and sports community. The two different film programmes, each approximately two and a half hours in length, are selected from over 350 films that have been entered into the prestigious 40th anniversary edition of the Banff Mountain Film Festival, held in the Canadian Rockies in November 2015.

The films explore remote cultures, highlight intense expeditions through

EVENTS

exotic landscapes and bring into sharp focus adrenaline-packed action sports.

The Banff Tour generates a community feel at each location, attracting people with a wide range of outdoor passions who make an annual pilgrimage to a Banff screening in search of new ideas and inspiration for their own adventurous pursuits!

Norwich, UEA (matinee and evening programmes) www.Banff-uk.com

Sat 23rd CUT-LOOSE POETS Your monthly chance to surprise yourseld and write the poems you’ve always wanted to. Release your inner creativity with the help of two of the most enthusiastic experience workshop leaders and poets, Michael Laskey and Dean Parkin.

Michael and Dean have been leading lights of the Aldeburgh Ooetry Festival for the last 27 years, have worked as editors and publishers, and delivered poetry workshops to people of all ages in schools, universities and the wider community. Beginners welcome - give it a try!

THE CUT, HALESWORTH 10am | £15 01986 873285 | newcut.org New! Fighting Gallery Tour Join us on our new and exciting tour led by a costumed guide. Experience the mysterious space of the fighting gallery, see fascinating views of the city, find the medieval graffiti and see the stonemason’s marks whilst you listen to tales of the castle’s embattled past.

Norwich castle 1pm - 1.30pm | Adult £2.75 Conc. £2.50 Child £2.10 2 Adults & children £7.70 Plus museum admission price 01603 495897 museums@norfolk.gov.uk

Sun 24th Fresh Ideas for Healthy Eating with Aggie Redpath Aggie Redpath, trained horticulturist, Cordon Bleu cook, radio presenter, food writer & founder of Aggie Redpath’s Family Kitchen and Garden will be inspiring everyone to make a few simple changes to your cooking habits and have your eyes opened to a whole new platter of flavours. Using her amazing salted lemons, salted oranges, salted lemon marmalade and seasonal fresh herbs, Aggie will show you a selection of savoury and sweet recipes that add colour, flavour and nutrients and are quick, delicious and healthy.

The workshop, which promises to be fun and informal, will last two hours and

will include full cooking demonstrations, lots of tasty samples, refreshments and a Suffolk Market Events Goodie Bag complete with recipe cards and a jar of delicious salted lemons.

UPSTAIRS @ LAVENHAM FARMERS’ MARKET 07704 627973 suffolkmarketevents.co.uk

Thurs 28th The River Waveney trust presents: Swifts – keeping the skies alive A Talk by Edward Mayer An enthusiastic speaker and advocate, Edward strives to get Swifts accommodated in new buildings and protected in old ones.

Swifts are with us just three months each summer, bringing vital action, drama and excitement to our village, town and city skies.

These amazing birds have shared our buildings ever since the Romans came to Britain and they still breed in our eaves and gables, but following major changes to the way we build, they no longer have as many places to nest, so much so that they are in sharp decline.

Edward, who set up Swift Conservation, a local, national and international advice service for improving the fortunes of these fantastic birds, is helping launch Harleston’s Swift Action as we anticipate the return of the birds from their long migration in a week or two’s time. fisher theatre, NR35 1EE 7.30pm | RWT members £4 / Non members £6 01603 493625 fishertheatre.org Sat 30th Undercroft Tour Explore one of the finest Medieval undercrofts in the city on this fascinating tour. Tours last around 40 minutes, and are not suitable for under 8’s. Please note there are steep steps down to the undercroft. Tours are free with your museum admission.

The Museum of Norwich at the Bridewell 11am, 1pm & 3pm | Adult £5.20 Conc £4.70 Child £3.90 2 adults & children £14.50 01603 493625 museums@norfolk.gov.uk

coming soon SUN 1st May Beccles Antiques Street Market The market plays host to a hundred general and specialist dealers selling

a wide range of good quality antiques and collectables including furniture, silver, china, linen, jewellery, books, clocks, retro and vintage design and decorative items. The dealers have a great selection of antiques on offer and are experts in their field; happy to share their knowledge and expertise with collectors.

Many of the local shops and restaurants and bars are open that day and first class local catering is incorporated into the market, including a hog roast, ice cream and tea and coffee. If you haven’t been before you really should give it a visit and experience the pleasure of a busy outdoor specialist market.

Beccles Town Centre, NR34 9HA 01502 711174 f antiquesmarketbeccles

SAT 7th MaY DISS Corn Hall on tour with Creative Arts East presents: Saturday Club - Morgan & West’s Utterly Spiffing Spectacular Magic Show The time travelling Victorian magic duo unload a boxful of bafflement and impossibility. Mixing brain busting illusion and old fashioned tom-foolery, Morgan & West present a show for all the family, where magic and silliness abound.

Garboldisham Village Hall, IP22 2SE 2pm | Adults £7 Children (5+) £4 Family £20 disscornhall.co.uk

book it now!

Sat 14th May A Pirate’s Ball (Into the Woods) Arghhhh! Me hearties we be founded shipwrecked, and laid out to bend, a big Pirate’s Ball and we’ll party till the end!

Maui Waui sets up in the woods once more in deepest Suffolk for a fully fabulous evening of swinging sounds, Pirate Style, with music from around the globe, live bands, DJ’s, cabaret, circus, decor and colourful characters!

As well as a fully stocked bar we will be offering food for those with travelhungry bellies!

Come along dressed up to the sails or down to the deep! Whatever you fancy come as yourselves and enjoy the excellent night that we have planned with out themed Pirates extravaganza!

With Live music from Lamuzgueule and Mobious Loop and DJ’s Tallulah Goodtimes and Bedwell along with Cabaret and performance by the Fool Hardy Circus and many more to be announced!

Holly Hill Woods, Thorington, IP17 3RB

From 5pm! Music till 2am £25 entry and camping £20 No camping mauiwauievents.co.uk

Tue 17th May — Sat 21st May Sell A Door Theatre Company Presents:James And The Giant Peach Roald Dahl’s classic tale follows the adventurous, young James and his friends – Miss Spider, Old-GreenGrasshopper, Centipede, Ladybird and Earthworm.

Join James and his new found insect friends on their extraordinary journey fraught with enemies, dangers and excitement, which will take them halfway around the world in a giant peach full of friends, music and laughter.

New Wolsey Theatre 01473 295900 | wolseytheatre.co.uk Thurs 26TH May The Sons of Pitches ‘The Naked Choir’ winners The Sons of Pitches is a multi-award winning British vocal group combining soaring solos, impeccable harmonies and sensational beatboxing to stunning effect.

Crowned winners of BBC 2 TV series ‘The Naked Choir’ in October 2015, The Sons have captivated audiences with highly creative vocal gymnastics and a programme of inventive pop covers, original numbers and entertaining improvised songs.

The Apex, IP33 3FD 7.30pm | £20-£24.50 01284 758000 theapex.co.uk Thurs 16th June Bad Manners Lace up your boots, pull up your braces and get ready to party with Buster and the boys as they celebrate their 40th anniversary - you won’t forget it!

Bad Manners formed in 1976 in Stoke Newington, London, and went on to become Ska legends and a much loved 1980s pop band. Fronted as always by the infamous Buster Bloodvessel, whose manic exploits got them banned from Top of the Pops, they have delivered such defining hits as ‘My Girl Lollipop’, ‘Lip Up Fatty’, ‘Can Can’, ‘Lorraine’, ‘Just A Feeling’ and ‘Special Brew’.

Don’t miss out on a night ska vibes, delivered by the born entertainers and loveable rogues that are Bad Manners!

The Apex, IP33 3FD 8pm | £18.50 advance / £20 door 01284 758000 theapex.co.uk

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JH 898959 GARDEN MAINTENANCE Providing Regular Weekly / Fortnightly Garden Maintenance

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