Places&Faces Magazine – Issue 58 – January 2015 by Countrywide Publications

JANUARY 2015 | £2.95 WHERE SOLD

THE Magazine for Norfolk &

North Suffolk

Our

ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO

2015’s Top Events

Local books – COVERED

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HAPPY NEW YEAR and I hope 2015 brings you all that you would wish for. What are your resolutions or don’t you bother? Mine are all the usual – to lose weight, be more patient, and keep the standards high on Places and Faces! Our 2015 preview should help you plan your year ahead as you can make a note of all those key events like the Royal Norfolk Show while our usual What’s On guide tells you, in more detail, about some of the best events and activities in the region this month. The Theatre Royal has a busy few weeks coming up, with a real mixture of shows on offer. Tina Hobley, ex Holby City, is in a mysterious thriller called Dead Simple while the Norfolk and Norwich Operatic Society presents the very lively Sister Act. We have a chat with American actress Trenetta Jones who takes on the Whoopi Goldberg role as nightclub singer Deloris van Cartier. Emma Outten was very taken with comedian and general all-rounder Brian Conley who stars in the circus-based musical, Barnum, in a couple of months. It is such an ambitious show and make sure you get your tickets before too long as it is bound to be a sell out! It may be the month of diets and detoxes – but not with us! Simon Wainwright from the Imperial Hotel in Great Yarmouth has a delicious venison dish while Franck Pontais tempts us with salmon. I visited the café at Norwich Prison which is fast becoming a hotspot and Andy Newman headed to Frettenham, just outside Norwich, to learn more about Norton’s cheeses. Mark Nicholls takes the air in Italy while I tell you about my trip to York, which is such an interesting place for a few days away, especially if you head to Bettys Tearooms for coffee and cake! Don’t miss this month’s competition which is a chance to win a dinner party for six at Farmer Browns in Tombland in Norwich. Competition winners: The winner of our Park Farm, Hethersett, competition was Sara Bruce of Norwich and the winner of our Brasteds competition was Wendy Walker of Gorleston. Happy reading!

call Jane on 01493 742088 or visit our website at www.placesand faces.co.uk/magazine-subscribe

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| JANUARY 2015

Our gardening writer Ellen Mary still has plenty for us to do in the garden despite the chilly weather!

Celebrities

14 Could it get your vote? Reece Dinsdale tells us about his latest role, as the Labour Leader in David Hare’s political play, The Absence of War, which arrives in Norwich next month 16 John Bultitude chats to American actress Trenetta Jones about her role as a nightclub singer turned sassy sister in Sister Act which opens in Norwich this month

Enjoy a spot of girl power with Made in Dagenham, the latest musical to open in the West End

Fashion & Beauty

21 Are you in need of a bit of fluff? Here’s a look

at some of the lovely faux fur hats, coats, jumpers and bags to cheer up your January wardrobe 25 Our skin needs a helping hand at this time of year so do invest in some of our luxurious treats

Andy Newman heads to Norton’s Dairy just north of Norwich to sample their delicious cheeses

What’s On

27 Norwich offers an exciting chance to see work by the French impressionist Manet 28 Here’s our regular guide to the best events and activities taking place this month 35 Melanie Cook wants us to get outside and enjoy the fresh air this month in her latest VisitNorwich column 37 Our Lust List this month looks at some of the great local books currently on the shelves

Homes & Gardens

Photo by Rebecca Naen

42 The property of the month has five bedrooms and is just a stone’s throw from the beach in Lowestoft. Who could want more?

66 30

Where to see and where to be seen this year: the essential 2015 guide

Food & Drink

56 Simon Wainwright at the Imperial Hotel

in Great Yarmouth serves us up venison on a bed of creamy mash – pure comfort food for January! 59 Franck Pontais spills the beans about his great fish dish 61 Sam Mathews wants our New Year resolution to be to try new labels 68 Sarah Hardy samples the Britannia Café at Norwich Prison, a very welcome addition to the café society scene in the city

Travel

70 Mark Nicholls grabs his hiking boots and tackles the Dolomites in Italy 72 Discover 2000 years of history in gorgeous York – which happens to have great shops, too

48 THIS MONTH’S

Editor’s Choice Editor Sarah Hardy picks out the best events and activities this month…

It is out with the chintz as it is a clean and fresh look for your home in 2015 say our experts who recommends ‘industrial chic’ as the way forward!

COMPETITION

Win a dinner party for six at Farmer Browns in Norwich

BEST NEW MOVIE

Business

80 Mark Nicholls interviews Chris Starkie,

managing director of The New Anglia Local Enterprise Partnership who are charged with boosting our local economy

Motoring

88 It is a perfect car for city slickers, says Iain

We all love a bit of a fright, don’t we? Well, how about The Woman in Black 2: Angel of Death? Set in the Second World War, it tells of a group of children who have been evacuated to a large house in the country. You can guess what happens next, can’t you? The cast includes Phoebe Fox, Helen McCrory and Jeremy Irvine but sadly no Daniel Radcliffe.

BEST GIG Pocket rocket singer and former The Voice UK mentor Jessie J will get you going in the New Year. She’s been on tour in America

Dooley as he takes a spin in the new Corsa

and now heads back to Blighty, arriving at the Eventim Apollo

Regulars

everything from Price Tag to her latest single, Bang Bang.

in Hammersmith, London, on January 29. Expect her to perform

18 Richard Barr, fresh from a job interview, has

Visit www.jessieofficial.com for more.

some sound advice for all those about to face an interrogation panel 95 Our High Society pages kick off with The East Anglian Game and Country Fair annual charity ball 102 Spend five minutes with Jane Raffles, one of the leading lights in the Norwich foodie scene for 25 years

BEST EXHIBITION Rubens and his Legacy: Van Dyck to Cezanne opens at the Royal Academy of Arts in Piccadilly on January 24 and runs until April 10. The Flemish baroque painter was best known for his fleshy nude women, but also embraced a broad array of subjects, from religious and mythological scenes to landscapes and portraits. The exhibition looks at each of these areas through the lens of six themes; power, lust, compassion, elegance, poetry and violence. Visit www.royalacademy.org.uk for more.

Cover Story

BEST NEW BOOK

12 She’s swapping the wards for the boards –

Lovely Davina McCall publishes a new recipe book, Davina’s 5-Weeks

Tina Hobley from Holby City comes to Norwich in a new thriller called Dead Simple

sugar. Published by Orion, it is exactly the right time of year to think

To Sugar Free. It is packed with yummy, easy dishes which cut out about living a more healthy life – and Davina is just the woman to inspire you!

BEST SPORTING EVENT The Australian Open starts in Melbourne, Australia, on January 19 and runs until February 1. The first Grand Slam of the tennis year, how will Andy Murray do? And will Rafa Nadal be back?

BEST NEW TV SHOW Broadchurch 2 is expected back on ITV this month! Hurrah! It was generally regarded as one of the best series ever, with David Tennant and Norfolk’s own Olivia Colman in the lead roles as DI Alec Hardy and DA Ellie Miller. Complicated, upsetting, beautifully acted, we love a decent drama. Keep an eye on TV listings for the exact date.

1. Jessie J 2. Broadchurch

| JANUARY 2015

W I R E D TO

M U LT I-TAL E NT E D BR IAN CON L E Y CO M E S TO NO RW IC H T H E ATRE R OYAL IN M AR C H TO STAR AS T H E G R E AT E ST S H OW MA N O N E ART H IN T H E C AM E R ON M AC KINTOS H PR O D U C T ION O F BAR NU M . E M M A O U T T E N E XPE R IE NC E D AN INT E RV I E W L IKE NO OT H E R

BARNUM comes to Norwich Theatre Royal from March 3 to 14. Call 01603 630000 or visit www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk

CELEBRITY INTERVIEW

BRIAN CONLEY

I Sarah Hardy travelled to London with Abellio Greater Anglia, visit www.abelliogreateranglia.co.uk

N MANY RESPECTS, Brian Conley is an interviewer’s

dream. Seconds in, and the star of Cameron Mackintosh’s production offers: ‘Would you like me to talk about Barnum?’ Before I had a chance to say: ‘Yes, please’, he was on a roll, assuring me: ‘You don’t even have to interact, I will waffle on!’ The role of Phineas Taylor Barnum, the Greatest Showman on Earth, continues Brian’s association with both Sir Cameron, whose production of Oliver! gained Brian rave reviews, and Michael Harrison, who Brian has collaborated with on numerous pantomimes. ‘I was delighted when Sir Cameron asked me,’ says Brian, who clearly reveres the theatrical producer. ‘When you say you’re working for Cameron you are working for Disney.’ But getting the gig led to Brian worrying about all sorts of things: ‘Worrying about my fitness, worrying about what I had to do and more importantly worrying about having to walk seven foot up on a wire - without any safety net, without any wires attached to me - 10 foot across to the other side, knowing that this is a finale to the first half.’ Practice makes perfect, though, as Brian adds: ‘For nine months I practised it before we even opened, before we even went into rehearsals.’ There have been benefits to all this wire-walking, however, as he has lost nearly a stone in weight. ‘I have good core strength now, like pilates, but it’s all to do with this bleedin’ wire!’ When Barnum opened at the London Palladium in 1981 Michael Crawford took the lead, winning an Olivier Award for his performance. Brian muses: ‘Michael Crawford did it for five years, and if they said to me ‘Brian, we want to do it for six’, I would because I think it’s the best show I’ve ever done in my life.’ Considering Brian’s recent West End stage credits include Edna Turnblad in Hairspray, Caractacus Potts in Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, this is really saying something. And another highlight of his career was originating the role of another great iconic American showman, Al Jolson, in Jolson for which he was nominated for an Olivier Award for Best Actor in a Musical. But Brian asserts that the show is ‘better than Jolson, better than Me and My Girl, better than Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, better than Hairspray, better than The Music Man. ‘It’s the first part I’ve ever had which I can honestly say I’ve been born to play, because there’s so many bits that I seem to have done all my life.’ Brian stars with Linzi Hateley as the American showman’s wife, Chairy. Although Brian could wax lyrical about Barnum for as long as you let him (‘I’ve got a GCSE in Barnum’), it was time to get a word in edgeways. He admits: ‘I can’t be a regular person and do what I do, so I am a bit weird!’ He has been described as one of the UK’s most versatile performers and actors. How would he describe himself? ‘I’m a performer and a variety star; I’ve done that more than I’ve done musical theatre, but what I am is, a showman.

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‘I’ve been doing this for many years, professionally since I was 12, and I’m now 53.’ On television he is probably best known for playing Doug Digby in The Grimleys, his ITV show The Brian Conley Show, his hugely successful An Audience with Brian Conley and numerous Royal Variety Performances. He is perhaps also known for his ill-fated stint on I’m a Celebrity a couple of years ago. It sounds as though Barnum is the pinnacle of his career, thus far. ‘When I got it, it nearly made me cry and it made me feel like I was holding the FA Cup.’ Especially considering he was ‘that little Cockney kid from Kilburn, whose dad was a cab driver’, who spent ‘the first 10 years in a council flat.’ Cue more revering about Sir Cameron: ‘Everything I ever wanted was just to be known by the greatest producer in the world.’ He was last at Norwich Theatre Royal a couple of years ago. ‘I was there with Sir Cameron doing Oliver! - I played Fagin and had a wonderful time at that theatre. It was also during the Olympics, so there was all that, and my family were there and we even did the Norfolk Broads, which I’ve never done in my life.’ Family is made up of wife Anne-Marie and two daughters: ‘Lucy is 12 and wants to do what daddy does and Amy is 17 and wants to be an events manager.’ It’s not long before Brian mentions that he doesn’t drink. ‘I’ve been through a lot of therapy over the years. My father died and I had depression and anxiety because of my dad, I was so close to him and I used to go to Princess Diana’s psychiatrist, called Maurice Lipsedge, a very distinguished man – I used to call him Obi-Wan Kenobi.’ He adds: ‘I loved going to him.’ His father’s death, he goes on, ‘hit me like a ton of bricks. I was doing well, I was on the telly, but I was doing God knows what to try and calm it down, Valium and all that. I was not in a good place, I was self-medicating on alcohol.’ And he stresses: ‘I don’t mind you writing this because I’m here to help people as well.’ However it sounds as though he’s in a much better place nowadays. He offers: ‘I’m never quite what people say. They always think I’m that 23-year-old man who said ‘it’s a puppet’.’ Brian believes in fate and destiny and asserts: ‘I believe, in my own mad way that PT Barnum is pulling us somewhere.’ He adds: ‘When I walk on the show they applaud because it’s Brian Conley but I very calmly say the name’s Barnum, PT Barnum.’ Brian would be the first to admit he is a ‘control freak’, so it should come as no surprise that he even offers the headline for the interview. ‘I think ‘the circus comes to town’ is the heading but I leave that up to you!’ As I said at the start, he’s an interviewer’s dream.

| JANUARY 2015

I guess I don’t feel that I’ve left as I still see so many of the cast; they are like my family. And my character hasn’t died so the door is thankfully still open

CELEBRITY INTERVIEW

TINA HOBLEY

T INA SHE MAD E HE R NAM E ON T V’ S H O LBY CITY B U T NOW TI NA HOB LEY H AS SWAP P E D T HE WAR DS FO R TH E B OAR DS AS SHE APPE ARS I N A NE W T H R ILLE R CO MING TO NO RWI CH THIS MONT H . S H E CH ATS TO SAR AH H AR DY

s the stern but fair ward sister Chrissie Williams in the long-running BBC medical drama Holby City, viewers have seen Tina Hobley held hostage by consultant Stuart McElroy, falling for a doctor she later found to be gay and getting pregnant in a one-night-stand! But, last year, after 12 years in the role, Tina decided she needed a change, a new direction, and left the soap with her much loved character suffering from cancer. ‘I guess I don’t feel that I’ve left as I still see so many of the cast; they are like my family. And my character hasn’t died so the door is thankfully still open,’ she says. After leaving the show, one of the first things she started to do was presenting a radio show on Smooth FM, every Sunday from 10am to 2pm. ‘I absolutely love it,’ she says. ‘It is something completely different.’ And now, for the first time in 20 years, Tina is set to go on tour. She’s been rehearsing for the national tour of Dead Simple, a new stage adaptation of a Peter James crime novel. Last year saw an extremely successful version of another of his novels, The Perfect Stranger, do very well on tour with Norfolk’s Claire Goose and Les Dennis in the lead roles. Dead Simple has sold two million copies worldwide, with Tina explaining that she is really looking forward to seeing how it translates to the stage. ‘It will be fascinating to see how it is done as it is a tricky piece, so much happens – but I can’t give too much away!’ The story tells of a stag party going slightly wrong. The groom, played by Hollyoaks and EastEnders bad boy Jamie Lomas, is buried alive – with time running out. Tina plays his prospective bride, Ashley, who appears to be ‘all sweetness and light’. She says: ‘As an actress I was really attracted to the part. The character starts as one person and ends as a very different one – so it is a challenge. ‘But I was worried what Peter James might make of me. I mean, as the author, you have a really clear picture in your head of what your character should be like. But we met and he

sent me a really sweet email afterwards saying that I would be the perfect Ashley so I was relieved!’ She adds: ‘And I really wanted to work with the show producer, Joshua Andrews, as I really admire his work – I saw A Streetcar Named Desire at the Young Vic and was blown away.’ Tina admits to be being slightly daunted by the prospect of being on the road and away from her family. ‘It was a joint decision with my husband and my mum – she moves in when I go away to work. But it was such a fantastic role that I was really keen to do it.’ She has signed up for 10 weeks of the tour – which does continue into the summer - and is looking forward to exploring new areas, including Norwich. ‘Maybe I could write a travel report about the different locations. But I know that I will have to look after myself, I’m rubbish at taking care of my voice. I love yoga and pilates so I’ll bring my mat with me and find a class to keep me in shape.’ Apart from a desire to try new projects, Tina is keen to spend more time with her family, including her husband, Oliver Wheeler who works in PR. She has a daughter, Isabella, from her first marriage to graphic designer Steve Wallington, who is now a teenager. Tina and Oliver have a daughter Olivia, who was born in April 2008, and a son, Orson, who was born in March 2010. ‘I like just being around for them, doing the school run, having their friends over,’ she says. Last summer saw Tina also try something new as she took part in Celebrity Masterchef which she enjoyed very much. ‘I am really not much of a cook – I cook for the children which can be really boring! ‘But I thoroughly enjoyed taking part although it was really hard work. And again, I made some great friends – Christopher Biggins had me laughing so much!’ Tina, now in her mid 40s, also reveals a very unusual hobby. She adores driving fast cars. ‘I love motor sports so my ideal day would be in a single-seat sports car on a race track.’ And she was very interested to hear that Lotus, Norfolk’s top of the range sports car manufacturer, is based just outside Norwich. Who knows, she just might call by! Hope you’re all ready for this whirlwind! DEAD SIMPLE runs at the Theatre Royal, Norwich, from

January 20 to 24. Call 01603 630000 for more details.

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| JANUARY 2015

Getting

Your Vote? 14

CELEBRITY INTERVIEW

REECE DINSDALE

As the General Election looms, Yorkshire actor Reece Dinsdale stars in a political play called The Absence of War which arrives in Norwich next month. Sarah Hardy finds out more

OLITICIANS – love them or hate them, there will be no getting away from MPs and their electioneering as the country faces a General Election in May. With perfect timing and providing something that is both a tonic and an intellectually cool reflection, David Hare’s play, The Absence of War, tours the country from next month until the week before Polling Day. With Hare’s trademark sardonic tone, The Absence of War takes a penetrating look at the world of politics, of presentation versus content, of personality versus policies. His central character is George Jones, the Labour leader seemingly destined to win the upcoming General Election. The play was written in 1993 and drew heavily on Labour’s efforts, especially those of the then leader Neil Kinnock, to win the 1992 General Election. Labour had lost the last two Election campaigns but was the favourite to claim victory. Reece Dinsdale who, to be honest, I know best from his days as one of Gail’s husbands in Coronation Street, takes on the challenging central part. ‘Yes, it is a mammoth task, rather terrifying, really,’ says Reece. ‘And what a time to be doing it – as we approach a General Election!’ He explains that his character, a chain smoking Shakespeare loving MP, is struggling in the popularity stakes a bit like Ed Miliband, the current Labour leader. ‘He just doesn’t seem to come across well. Nobody can doubt his ability but he struggles to appeal to the public. The play looks at the tragedy of this,’ says Reece. Without giving too much away, George is forced to face himself, to step back from political machinations and the spin doctors and to speak from the heart. ‘It is shocking, and painful, how we see the real man and understand his frustrations,’ says Reece. ‘But David Hare writes some great one-liners, too, so you’ll be laughing plenty, as well.’ Reece was born in a small village near Huddersfield to a distinctly non-theatrical family, but can trace the moment when the acting bug bit back to an appearance at about the age of 12, in a school play, a version of Tom Sawyer. ‘I must have loved all the attention… from then on, I knew what I wanted to be. A few years later, I was applying to all the London drama schools, and had a few offers. I believe that mum and dad thought that I must be doing something that worked, and I know that they felt that if I was happy doing it, then that was good enough for them. They have been – and are – extraordinarily supportive, every step of the way, but I sense that, in the early years, they thought that I’d ‘grow out of it’. They were, bless them, completely wrong.’ He moved to London where he studied at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama and from the 1980s, worked mainly in repertory theatre across the country. His big break was, perhaps, in 1983 when he starred opposite Peter Ustinov in Beethoven’s Tenth in the West End. A couple of years later, when he was just 25, his agent suggested that he might like to have a look at a script that had been sent to him by Yorkshire TV. The part was a 17-year-old lad forced to live with his dad after being thrown out by his mother. Home to Roost, also starring John Thaw, ran for four ratings-topping seasons. ‘Part of me wishes that I hadn’t done it, because I was building a decent reputation for doing the more ‘serious’ pieces. I was 25, but I looked 17 and the clincher for me was that my dad was played by John Thaw, who was so familiar from shows like The Sweeney,’ says Reece.

Now after 30 years as a professional actor he has done just about everything – straight drama, television soap, a hugely successful sitcom, light material, darker plays, you name it. He writes, and he directs. With his wife, actress Zana Turner, he moved back to Yorkshire when they had children. ‘We wanted the children to grow up in a green and pleasant place. And now we’ve gone posh as we are in Harrogate. We were in the countryside just outside the town but last year moved into somewhere more central.’ Reece, aged 55 and a keen Huddersfield Town football fan, is very much a hands-on dad and doesn’t like to spend too much time away from his 13-year-old daughter, Elwy, and 10-year-old son, Luca. ‘I like to be around and this is the first time that I have toured in about 22 years! And the last time was in a David Hare play.’ He is rehearsing in London for four weeks this month and then hits the road, with the play opening at the Crucible in Sheffield before arriving at Norwich’s Theatre Royal at the end of February. ‘I’m very excited about it, and I know audiences will respond to it – it will get people thinking,’ he says. He has been getting into shape for the tour by regular trips to the gym and is looking forward to exploring the cities the show visits. ‘I don’t think that I have ever been to Norwich so, especially on the days when there is no matinée, I’ll try to potter around and get to know the place.’

THE ABSENCE OF WAR, Norwich Theatre Royal, February 24

to 28. Call 01603 630000 or visit www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk

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| JANUARY 2015

SISTER ACT runs at Norwich Theatre Royal, Norwich, from January 26 to 31. Call 01603 630000 or visit www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk

WITH ITS GREAT SONGS AND HEART-WARMING PLOT, SISTER ACT HAS PROVED POPULAR WITH THEATRICAL AUDIENCES ON BOTH SIDES OF THE ATLANTIC. THE SHOW IS THE LATEST TO BE PERFORMED BY THE NORFOLK AND NORWICH OPERATIC SOCIETY, AND JOHN BULTITUDE MEETS THE DEDICATED DRAMA TEACHER PREPARING TO BE A SASSY SISTER

N THE BIG SCREEN and the stage, Sister Act has proved hugely popular. Whoopi Goldberg made the classic story of the nightclub singer turned nun into a global phenomenon in 1992. Then a successful stage tour followed, and now the Norfolk and Norwich Operatic Society is aiming to make the show its own as one of the first amateur groups in Britain to win the rights to perform it. And that brings its own challenges as a big-voiced and bighearted performer is needed with an amazing voice, bags of charisma and a larger-than-life personality to take on the lead role of nightclub singer Deloris van Cartier forced to take on a new identity as a nun while under police protection. Enter Suffolk mum Trenetta Jones who ticks all three requirements above and cannot wait to take on one of the most iconic roles in musical theatre in recent years. She admits her path to the part was anything but conventional as she first came to the Society’s attention while auditioning for their sister company Threshold’s production of Hairspray. Trenetta recalls: ‘I was looking for something to do over the summer when I came across a Gumtree ad for people to be in Hairspray. When I got to the audition, the society chairman David Pulling said ‘wait a minute’ and came back with a boom-box and some sheet music. He gave me 20 minutes to learn 16 bars of a song and then perform it.’ A second audition followed and then Trenetta got the call to say she had got the lead! ‘I just felt numb after the phone call and I stayed numb until the first day of rehearsals when I saw everybody and I was fine. What a great character to play. I still have to pinch

myself because I cannot believe I am following in the footsteps of Whoopi Goldberg. I like a challenge and it is good to have one like this.’ At the time we chat, she is taking a quick break from singing rehearsals working alongside her fellow ‘nuns’ to get the harmonies and musical numbers spot on, which is a part of the performance preparation process she loves. Trenetta explains: ‘I find the rehearsals really great because I like being with the company. We do a lot of work on the music and when the director Jeremy Tustin is here, we have an amazing time. I decided not to think too much about other people who have played the part because that was a bit intimidating and decided to make Deloris mine. That made me feel much more confident.’ As an added challenge, she is completely new to the Society although that is not putting her off. ‘They are so nice and friendly and welcoming. I am impressed with this bunch of people,’ she says. It is almost like a busman’s holiday for the devoted mother whose day job is teaching Drama and English at a school in Suffolk, where she has been based for the past three years, and before that she spent eight years living in Japan.

NORFOLK INTERVIEW

SISTER ACT

Since being in East Anglia, she has worked with theatre groups in Cambridge but, since discovering Norwich earlier this year when she was cast in Sister Act, is finding out why the city is loved by so many people. ‘I have liked what I have seen of it so far and it has so much history. I am looking forward to the days when I have shows so I can see a little more of it before I perform.’ And it is this show which is occupying her spare time at the moment. The American performer particularly loves its great musical numbers including Raise Your Voice, The Life I Never Had and the title track. More than that, she promises you will leave the auditorium with a big smile on your face after seeing the production. ‘Sister Act makes you feel so good. The music is great, the cast is fabulous and even though the show has a lead character, it is an ensemble piece because there is so much to see,’ she says. ‘You will leave tapping your toes and humming, and you might find yourself moving and grooving in your seat. You may even have a wet eye so you may need to bring a handkerchief or two.’

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| JANUARY 2015

TH IS M ONTH O U R R I C H A R D I S S U I T E D AND B OOTED – A LL R E A DY FO R A J O B INTERV IEW. BU T H OW D I D I T G O?

H, BARR, SO YOU’RE THE SON OF THE CRICKETER – EH? Jolly good.

Well I don’t think we need to ask you anything else.’ So began (and almost ended) my first formal interview, and it was a far cry from the one I had last week.

We set a great store by the questions we ask others – in an effort to find out who they are, what they might become, or whether they are telling the truth. The ultimate in this process is cross examination in court, where experienced (and sometimes inept) advocates try to persuade witnesses that they are mistaken or downright lying, whilst the witnesses (if they are honest) desperately try to please or (if they are not honest) continue to elaborate on their lies until they either dig themselves in such a deep hole that they cannot get out, or they manage to tunnel through and live to commit crimes another day. Every day courtrooms echo to the sounds of barristers and solicitors intoning: ‘I put it to you Mr Sphinx that you did throw that ice cream wrapper on the ground.’ ‘Really Mrs Groggins, are you seriously expecting this court to believe that it was not you riding your bicycle on the pavement?’ or ‘Mr Barr are you trying to tell me that the speed camera was wrong and that you were only travelling at 29 mph, when it clearly shows 33mph?’

Even fewer people have the pleasure (or pain) of appearing in court as an advocate. I am happy to say that I gave that up many years ago, having done a spell of defending, and even prosecuting in the King’s Lynn, Grimston, Cromer, Hunstanton and Downham Market Magistrates Courts (all but one now closed in the name of ‘efficiency’). One memory stands out. I was involved on the fringes of a major dispute between a firm of solicitors and a government department. At short notice I was summoned to address Mr Justice Ognall, a High Court judge in open court. For days I crafted my address to him, correcting every typo, perfecting every expression until I had achieved what I thought was a masterpiece. Because solicitors do not have what is called a right of audience in the High Court (at least those without the higher audience rights – which I do not), I had to stand in the well of the court, looking and feeling like a miscreant schoolchild. I handed in my eight page script. Mr Justice Ognall flipped through it, looked down at me in that disapproving way that judges are trained to have, pursed his lips and told me to skip to my last sentence. ‘That will be sufficient Mr Barr.’ With a trembling falsetto voice I read my piece and was relieved that I was not hauled away to the Tower of London by a pair of Tipstaffs. My interview last week was not such an ordeal. I was applying to go on the board of a charity. It was not exactly going to turn around my finances: expenses only were to be paid – and I am not even an MP, so they would not be generous. In preparation I took my suit to the cleaners, had a haircut, researched everything I could about the charity, polished up my

In preparation I took my suit to the cleaners, had a haircut, researched everything I could about the charity, polished up my CV and set off for a posh office in the City of London.

A LOOK AT LIFE

RICHARD BARR

CV and set off for a posh office in the City of London. I arrived 45 minutes early (unusual for me – I am the kind of person who arrives on the railway platform just as the last door is being slammed shut). While I was waiting to be called I tried to look relaxed in the deep leather armchairs, though I had sunk in so low that I wondered if I would be able to get up when I was called. Then I noticed that one of my highly polished shoes had a mark on it. Should I sacrifice my handkerchief and clean it? Probably not. What if I needed to blow my nose? The moment came. I was ushered into a room filled with the interview panel sitting around a large table. I was placed at the end – reinstating the miscreant schoolboy feeling. Like sniper fire, the questions came from all directions. They were friendly. I felt it was going well. Then part way through I noticed that the purple laundry label was still prominently attached to my suit jacket with a safety pin. I tried to conceal it but I am sure it was noticed. Ah well, at least they will have

known that I was wearing a clean suit. I made them laugh from time to time (perhaps a mistake) and it was over in an hour. Then came the waiting, and after that the telephone call. The chair of the charity is also a High Court judge, so when he opened by saying: ‘We had some truly excellent candidates. The standard was very high… very difficult decision.’ I knew what was coming next. Some you win. Some you lose. All those years ago when I was being vetted as a suitable candidate to become a solicitor I went before a panel of very old men. I had no idea whether my father was a cricketer or not, but I was not about to disagree. ‘Yes,’ I nodded enthusiastically. And that is how I was launched as a solicitor onto an unsuspecting public. The moral to the story? Do not disagree with an interview panel if they say something in your favour, and do check your suit for laundry labels before important encounters.

Like sniper fire, the questions came from all directions. They were friendly. I felt it was going well. Then part way through I noticed that the purple laundry label was still prominently attached to my suit jacket with a safety pin.

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FASHION

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WHAT’S ON

H O M AG E T O W O M E N Norwich Castle Museum and Art Gallery pays Homage to Manet from the end of this month. Emma Outten explores the legacy of the French painter

MAJOR LOAN EXHIBITION EXPLORING the legacy of one of the most important and controversial artists of modern times, the French artist Edouard Manet, comes to Norwich Castle Museum and Art Gallery from the end of this month. Quite simply, Manet (1832-1883) relished painting women (he would go on to scandalise the Paris art world with his provocative paintings of the fairer sex),and so Homage to Manet not only seeks to explore his influence on British Impressionism but also on the depiction of women in early 20th century art. Central to the exhibition and the undisputed star of the show is Manet’s stunning Portrait of Mademoiselle Claus, which was recently acquired for the nation by the Ashmolean Museum, Oxford. The painting depicts Fanny Claus, a friend of Manet’s wife and a professional concert violinist, wearing an elegant white dress, and seated on a balcony. Painted in 1868, the same year that Manet visited London, this is a fully realised portrait towards one of his greatest masterpieces: Le Balcon (The Balcony) of 1868-69 (Musée d’Orsay, Paris). One of Manet’s leading disciples in France, who also was to become a major influence on the upcoming generation of British artists, was the artist Claude Monet. Monet’s painting Woman seated on a Bench c.1874 is shown in the exhibition in the section entitled The Innocence of White. By exploring the connections between Manet and Monet, as well as the next generation of artists working in Britain, the exhibition invites engaging comparisons to be made through their respective depictions of female subjects. The section will also feature the elegant and enigmatic painting by John Singer Sargent of his niece entitled The Black Brook, c.1908, on loan from Tate, London. As with Mademoiselle Claus, the women depicted by both Monet and Sargent are also wearing white, light summer dresses and portrayed seated outdoors. And other paintings in this section include Philip Wilson Steer’s Girls Running, Walberswick Pier, 1888-1894 (Tate, London). Manet’s legacy was to herald the emergence of the modern age and a new chapter for women. This was embodied in the self-belief and talents of up-coming women artists such as Gwen John, Laura Knight and Vanessa Bell. Here the exhibition features a rarely seen painting from Norwich Castle’s own collection, a charming work by Gwen John of Girl in a Blue Dress holding a Piece of Sewing, dated

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c.1914-15. This painting together with Laura Knight’s SelfPortrait with the model Ella Louise Naper of 1913, on loan from the National Portrait Gallery, London, epitomises the modern woman in this show. The exhibition itself takes its title from Irish artist William Orpen’s work Homage to Manet of 1909, which is a key work for this show on loan from Manchester City Galleries. Orpen’s painting shows eminent critics, connoisseurs and artists of the Edwardian art world discussing Manet’s 1870 portrait of Eva Gonzalès, which is hanging on the wall above them (National Gallery, London - Sir Hugh Lane Bequest). Among the artists depicted are none other than Steer (centre) and Walter Sickert (far right) who were to immortalise East Anglia and London respectively through their vision of British Impressionism. Norwich Castle Museum and Art Gallery’s Exhibition Officer and Project Curator, Heather Guthrie, says: ‘Although widely acknowledged as a forefather of modern art and caricatured as the‘King of the Impressionists’, Manet’s legacy in Britain until now has arguably received less attention. ‘In staging this exhibition we are tracing a network of influences which flowed from Manet and provided the catalyst for the development of British Impressionism.’

HOMAGE TO MANET, January 31 to April 19, Norwich Castle Museum and Art Gallery. Call 01603 495897 or visit www. museums.norfolk. gov.uk HOMAGE TO MONET

PORTRAIT OF MADEMOISELLE CLAUS

HOMAGE TO MANET

| JANUARY 2015

WE KNOW IT’S HARD TO BELIEVE, BUT THE DAYS ARE GETTING LONGER ALREADY, SO GET OUT AND ABOUT WITH THE HELP OF OUR MONTHLY ROUND-UP

JAZZ Jazz singer Jacqui Dankworth arrives at the Maddermarket Theatre in Norwich on January 8. The daughter of Cleo Laine and Johnny Dankworth, Jacqui promises an intimate evening, with a real mixture of jazz, folk, soul and blues! Call 01603 620917 or visit www.maddermarket.co.uk. SWING To celebrate the start of their 20th anniversary national tour Digby Fairweather’s Half Dozen bring their newest show, Swing’s the Thing, to The Cut at Halesworth, on January 30. Ten-time winners for Top Small Group in the prestigious British Jazz Awards (2014) this all star group promises you an unforgettable evening of swinging sounds. Visit www.newcut.org.

ORCHESTRA For the last few years at the Norwich Playhouse, the Pasadena Roof Orchestra has been showing a full house just how entertaining a live dance band can be, and they are back on January 9. The musicians are first class and the show is presented with a very large dash of British humour. Call 01603 598598 or visit www.norwichplayhouse.co.uk.

PERFORMANCE The Garage in Norwich launches its spring season with Tanja: Scratch Performance on January 23. This work in progress performance follows a five-day theatre residency and is a one-woman drama telling the true life events of a detainee in Yarl’s Wood. Age 14-plus. Visit www.thegarage.org.uk.

CHAMBER MUSIC Enjoy a Chamber Music Weekend at the John Innes Centre in Norwich on January 24 and 25. The weekend will feature French pianist François-Frédéric Guy, Albanian violinist Tedi Papavrami, and string quartet Parisii Quartet. Visit www.norwichchambermusic.co.uk.

WHAT’S ON

MONTHLY ROUND UP

Photo: Steve Hone

FAIRHAVEN There are a couple of events to look forward to at Fairhaven Woodland and Water Garden this month: a New Year’s Day Walk on January 1, led by Head Gardener Ian Guest followed by a Stephen Mole Photography Exhibition from January 6 to 18. Stephen is a Norfolk Broads based photographer. Visit www.fairhavengarden.co.uk.

FAMILY HISTORY Family history researchers can find out more about their ancestors in the Norfolk Regiment using war diaries, letters and personal accounts on January 14, during First World War Family History Workshops at Norwich Castle Study Centre, Shirehall. Call 01603 493640. LUNCHTIME CONCERT Cello duo Rebecca Welham and Catherine Johnson perform a lunchtime concert at the Theatre Royal in Bury St Edmunds on January 26, as a tribute to the great 20th century British cellist and teacher, Jacqueline du Pré, who was born on this day 70 years ago. Visit www.theatreroyal.org or call 01284 769505.

RUN Get the year into gear with a Parkrun at Sheringham Park on January 3 (plus there will be 21 more dates until May 23 so no excuses!) This is a timed fun run offering an opportunity for all the local community, male or female, young or old, to come together on a regular basis, and to enjoy this beautiful park and get physically active into the bargain. Visit www.parkrun.org.uk. Subscribe online at www.placesandfaces.co.uk

ROYAL MARINES The Royal Marines Training Band returns to the Royal Hospital School in Holbrook as part of the Royal Marines 350th anniversary celebrations, on January 31. The Band will hold a morning workshop and rehearsal, culminating in a concert of classical and modern music with over 60 musicians on stage in the evening. Visit www.ipswichregent.com. BRITTEN SINFONIA This is a concert to banish the post-Christmas blues: Britten Sinfonia at Lunch II January 9 at St Andrew’s Hall in Norwich. It will feature one of Debussy’s finest chamber works, his Sonata for cello and piano; Fauré’s profound Piano Trio; and Kaija Saariaho’s Nocturne for solo violin alongside her new Piano Trio. Call 01603 630000.

BIRDS As well as it being Big Garden Birdwatch this month (January 24 and 25), there are plenty of other RSPB activities, including a pink-footed goose event on January 14. Join the guide in the Snettisham RSPB car park to witness one of the UK’s finest avian spectacles: the dawn flight of tens of thousands of pink-footed geese leaving their night-time roost on the Wash! Visit www.rspb.org.uk.

FIREWORKS Get the year off to a fire-cracking start with Cromer’s New Year’s Day Firework Display on January 1. Take a walk on the beach, grab some fish and chips for lunch and watch the spectacular fireworks display over the sea at 5pm set off from the town’s iconic pier. Visit www.cromertown.org.

WORKSHOP There is a dinosaur puppet workshop at Norwich Puppet Theatre on January 3 – a chance to create a beast from the past - be it herbivore, carnivore or omnivore - Triceratops, Stegosaurus or Tyrannosaurus! Each session is based on a particular type of performance puppet used in the Theatre - from rod to marionette to glove. Visit www.puppettheatre.co.uk.

| JANUARY 2015

LATITUDE FESTIVAL

A Good Year WANT TO KNOW THE EVENTS NEAR AND FAR FOR THE YEAR AHEAD? LOOK NO FURTHER, SAYS EMMA OUTTEN ANNIE

JANUARY 50th Anniversary of Sir Winston Churchill’s Death – January 24 To recognise the 50th anniversary of Sir Winston Churchill’s death, a programme of exciting events will be on offer across the country showcasing Churchill’s England, and they include The Churchill War Rooms in London. www.iwm.org.uk FEBRUARY Snowdrop trails at Walsingham Abbey The grounds of Walsingham Abbey are famous for the spectacular ruins of the mediaeval Priory and place of pilgrimage, together with an unrivalled display of massed snowdrops in February. The snowdrops start just before, on January 31. Visit www.walsinghamabbey.com MARCH Society of Name Studies for Britain and Ireland Spring Conference – March 27 to 29 Did you know the Society of Name Studies for Britain and Ireland will be holding its annual spring conference in Norwich this year? No, neither did we! The theme which has emerged from the talks offered is East Anglian places and people. www.snsbi.org.uk

East Anglian Game and Country Fair – April 25 and 26 The East Anglian Game and Country Fair is an annual two day, family event held at the Norfolk Showground, Norwich, welcoming world class events and attractions each year. Visit www.ukgamefair.co.uk Women’s and Men’s Boat Races Combined, Henley-on-Thames and London – April 11 In a revolutionary move that breaks with 183 years of history, the Women’s Boat Race between Oxford and Cambridge will achieve equal billing with the more famous men’s event in 2015 as the two events are combined. Visit www.theboatrace.org MAY Norfolk and Norwich Festival – May 8 to 24 Norfolk and Norwich Festival is firmly established as one of the ‘big four’ arts Festivals in the UK. Tickets are already on sale for the first highlights of the 2015 event, which include two major world premier commissions: from Wolf’s Child by WildWorks and Circa. Visit www.nnfestival.org.uk

Assembly House Norwich Did you also know that the 11 hotel bedrooms in the St Mary’s Wing at the Assembly House in Norwich should be complete this month? I know, we can hardly wait either! www.assemblyhousenorwich.co.uk

The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas, Norwich Theatre Royal – May 5 to 9 Presented by The Children’s Touring Partnership, this new production brings author and UEA Creative Fellow John Boyne’s bestselling novel to the stage. www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk

APRIL Burnham Market International Horse Trials – April 2 to 4 One of the country’s finest events takes place in northwest Norfolk where visitors can see a multitude of Olympic and Championship athletes competing on home turf. www.musketeer.co.uk

50th Anniversary of The Landmark Trust To celebrate 50 years, The Landmark Trust is celebrating with a ground-breaking collaboration with sculptor Antony Gormley. The installation, called LAND, will see five sculptures installed at five Landmarks, including Martello Tower in Suffolk. www.landmarktrust.org.uk

JUNE Southwold Arts Festival – June 27 to July 4 Save the date – the second Southwold Arts Festival will be taking place late June/early July. The first ever festival was a roaring success, with the likes of Andrew Marr coming to Suffolk, so we’re hoping for good things again this year. www.southwoldartsfestival.co.uk Thetford Forest Live – June and July The Script and Tom Odell are the first acts to be announced for Forest Live 2015 (July 2 & July 5 respectively); the annual summer music series organised by the Forestry Commission, where bands perform in unique woodland locations across England, including Thetford Forest near Brandon, in Suffolk. www.forestry.gov.uk/music Magna Carta 800th Anniversary – June 15 and year-round Next year marks the 800th anniversary of the sealing of the Magna Carta by King John and his barons. For the first time, the four original copies of the Magna Carta will be reunified at the British Library and there will be a host of activity across the country. www.magnacarta800th.com JULY Royal Norfolk Show – July 1 and 2 Tickets for the 2015 Royal Norfolk Show will be available very soon, and the largest annual event in Norfolk, and the largest two-day agricultural show in the country, has a reputation for being a fantastic event full of entertainment for all the family. www.royalnorfolkshow.co.uk

NORFOLK SHOW

WHAT’S ON

Latitude Festival – July 16 to 19 2015 will be the 10th anniversary of Latitude Festival, so expect some special surprises! 2014 was full of surprises, too, what with Lily Allen standing in for Friday headliners Two Door Cinema Club, at the last minute, at Henham Park near Southwold. www.latitudefestival.co.uk Holt Festival – July 19 to 26 Holt Festival boasted the likes of Melvyn Bragg and Meow Meow last year. The 2015 event is still being programmed by new artistic Director Charles Pugh who promises that the first names will be announced soon. www.holtfestival.org Holkham Country Fair – July 25 and 26 Holkham Country Fair is back, as planned, which is very good news seeing as the last Fair was one of the most successful shows since it began. And it promises to be even better for this year. www.holkhamcountryfair.co.uk Sandringham Flower Show – July 29 Make no mistake: they are already busy planning for the 2015 Flower Show at Sandringham! And did you know it will be the 135th? www.sandringhamflowershow.org.uk AUGUST Wayland Show – August 2 They are already starting to plan this year’s agricultural show, which promises to be a great day out for all the family. www.waylandshow.com Hunstanton Lawn Tennis Tournament – August 16 to 21 Britain’s biggest tennis tournament was established in 1920 and is still going strong. So tennis racquets at the ready! Visit www.hunstantonltt.co.uk Annie, Norwich Theatre Royal – August 17 to 22 Annie, the world’s favourite family musical, comes to Norwich for only eight performances, starring Craig Revel Horwood, the BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing judge, as the tyrannical Miss Hannigan! www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk

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THE SCRIPT

RUGBY WORLD CUP

2015 PREVIEW

SEPTEMBER Sundown Festival – September 4 to 6 Plans are well underway for Sundown 2015, when the music festival returns to the Norfolk Showground. Can the headliners beat last year’s Chase & Status and Ellie Goulding? www.sundownfestival.co.uk

NOVEMBER Ways With Words Southwold Festival – November 5 to 9 Each November Ways With Words runs a literature festival in the lovely seaside resort and this year will be no exception. www.wayswithwords.co.uk

Out There Festival – September 18 to 20 Catch some of Seachange’s exciting circus and street arts work at this year’s Out There Festival, which received a three-year funding boost of almost £1m with the announcement that they will be one of Arts Council England’s latest National Portfolio Organisations. www.outtherefestival.com

150 years since publication of Alice in Wonderland – November 26 and yearround Lewis Carroll’s enchanting tale with unforgettable characters such as the White Rabbit and Mad Hatter is celebrating 150 years since its publication in 2015. The University City of Oxford is the birthplace of Alice in Wonderland so expect lots of activities there. www.storymuseum.org.uk

Rugby World Cup 2015 – September 18 to October 31 The world’s third largest sporting event, the Rugby World Cup, is coming to England in 2015, giving fans the perfect excuse to take a road-trip around the country. The tournament lasts six weeks, allowing visitors to discover and explore the best of the ten host cities. www.visitengland.com/things-to-do/rugbyworld-cup-2015 OCTOBER FlipSide Festival – October 2 to 4 FlipSide, the family festival with a Brazilian beat, returns. The second FlipSide Festival took place at Snape Maltings, Suffolk, over the first weekend of October last year and included literature, music, art, and dance. www.flipsidefestival.co.uk

Christmas Switch On, Norwich – November 19 Celebrate the start of the Christmas season in Norwich city centre. It all happens on the City Hall stage, and The Forum, and includes a Lantern Parade. www.norwich.gov.uk DECEMBER Thursford Christmas Spectacular OK, so it technically starts in November each, year, but this month is typified by the Thursford Christmas Spectacular. Quite simply, it is the largest Christmas show in the country. www.thursford.com

CAMRA’s Norwich Beer Festival – October 26 to 31 Norwich Beer Festival, which is organised by the Norwich and Norfolk Branch of the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA), is held in October every year. The festival is held in St Andrew’s and Blackfriars’ Halls (now referred to as The Halls). www.norwichcamra.org.uk

Open Mon-Sat 10-4pm · Sunday by appointment

A series of exhibitions showcasing some of our favourite local artists 6th - 18th January Stephen Mole: Stunning Norfolk scenes captured in photographs.

20th January - 1st February South Walsham Art Group; A collection of work by local artists.

3rd - 15th February Liz Reed; Acrylic collection of local landscapes and floral subjects.

from £3.75

fresh sandwiches, scones, Belgian fancies and a choice of tea or coffee from £12.50

Find us just off the A47 halfway between Norwich and Great Yarmouth at South Walsham

NR13 6DZ - Open daily from 10am

FOR BOOKINGS Tel 01508 493734 or email bookings@acorntearooms.co.uk Visit us online at www.acorntearooms.co.uk

01603 270449

www.fairhavengarden.co.uk

44 The Street, Poringland, NR14 7JT

T I M E

T H E

E N J O Y

For Business

Gaming Floor

Restaurant and Bars

Highly-equipped conference rooms suitable for up to 60 people, at very competitive rates. The ideal location for your team meeting or event.

There’s something for everybody on our gaming floor… grab a drink from the bar or try your hand at Roulette, Blackjack or our Jackpot slot machines.

Our fine dining experience is one to savour, with beautiful views of our gardens. Whether it’s a meal for two or a large celebration, we can cater for all.

P O K E R

E V E N T S

S U N D A Y

L U N C H

L I V E

Grosvenor Casino, Marine Parade, Great Yarmouth, NR30 3JG · Tel: 01493 850444 · www.grosvenorcasinos.com www.facebook .com/grosvenorcasinogreatyarmouth

@ G C G r e a t Ya r m o u t h

T H E

E N T E R T A I N M E N T

keepitfun.rank.com Over 18s only. Photo ID is required. www.gambleaware.co.uk

JANUARY

BOX OFFICE: (01603) 63 00 00 Tues 20 - Sat 24 January DEAD SIMPLE Tina Hobley, Jamie Lomas, Gray O'Brien star in stage adaptation of Peter James' gripping detective tale £6.50 - £25.50

Mon 12 January BEYOND THE BARRICADE Songs from the best musicals £5.50 - £20.50

Mon 26 - Sat 31 January SISTER ACT Norfolk & Norwich Operatic Society with amateur production of feel-good musical comedy £5.50 - £21.50

Sister Act

Thur 18 Dec 14 - Sun 18 Jan 15 PETER PAN Kevin Kennedy (Coronation Street), Sid Sloane (CBeebies), Richard Gauntlett star in traditional family panto £5.50 - £21

Book online: www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk T H E AT R E ST R E E T, N O RW I C H N R 2 1 R L

BRAND NEW FLEET J

UST ARRIVE D

TRY GO KARTING AT ELLOUGH PARK RACE CIRCUIT Step out of the norm, leave the mundane behind. Experience outdoor karting on our 1100m British Championship Circuit in 390cc karts.

ARRIVE & DRIVE SESSIONS

Adults from £25

(from 16 years old in 390cc karts)

Children from £20

(from 8 years old in 160cc cadet karts)

GIFT VOUCHERS AVAILABLE Benacre Road, Ellough, Near Beccles, Suffolk, NR34 7XD Tel: 01502 717718 www.elloughparkraceway.co.uk

WHAT’S ON

VISITNORWICH

T H E G R E AT OUTDOORS A WINTER WALK CAN DO WONDERS FOR YOUR WELLBEING AFTER THE FRENZIED ACTIVITIES OF CHRISTMAS, SAYS MELANIE COOK

ANUARY IS A MONTH OF REFLECTION when we wonder how quickly the previous year passed, where we decide whether or not to set New Year resolutions, and where we plan future holidays. It is also the month many of us decide ‘to be more active’, but being active doesn’t necessarily mean committing to a direct debit and being holed up in the local gym. Little can be more relaxing and rejuvenating than a gentle walk. The physical activity alone sets off feel good chemicals – endorphins - which help us feel happy and relaxed. It’s also a social activity to be enjoyed with the dog, the family or a group of friends – or even savoured when we need valuable ‘me’ time. One of the best places to blow the cobwebs away is Whitlingham Country Park, more than 280 acres of beautiful countryside near Norwich. Miles of paths and cycle routes are freely available to explore and provide a countryside escape a stone’s throw from Norwich. It is perfect for dog walking, feeding ducks, observing wildlife, running around or simply getting away from it all. Take a flask of hot chocolate and some winter food to enjoy alfresco along the way. The University of East Anglia (UEA) campus is another spot to take a waterside walk this time of year, with the added benefit of outdoor art in the form of super-sized bronze sculptures by Henry Moore. Lord Robert Sainsbury and his wife Lady Lisa Sainsbury were avid collectors of art, in particular works by Henry Moore who became a lifelong friend and godfather to their son, David. The pair donated their entire art collection to the UEA in 1973 where works by Moore including drawings and other pieces by the artist and works by Alberto Giacometti, Francis Bacon and Jacob Epstein now reside in the Sainsbury Centre of Visual Arts – a building designed by Lord Norman Foster; a work of art in itself! Another unique selling point at the Sainsbury Centre is its resplendent café with floor to ceiling glass walls. Finish your outdoor or indoor activities (the Sainsbury Centre offers free entry to its permanent galleries) with a steaming cup of coffee and a large slice of home-made cake! Take it from one who knows how good it is. For seasoned walkers the Boudicca Way is an earnest walk if you want to follow the whole 36-mile route from Norwich railway station to Diss station. However, the walk is split into four sections so walkers who want to enjoy its beauty but not all of it, can do so easily.

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A less rural walk is through the historic market town of Wymondham. Discover medieval streets and architectural gems dating back to the 1400s along the way. Wymondham Abbey is a 14th century Anglican parish church with ruins dating back to the 12th century in a position overlooking the River Tiffey. It is a great location for photographers as well as walkers but a trip to the Abbey would not be complete without a stop at the charming Hen House farm café and shop just a short walk away. This adorable pit stop sells own blend coffee and homemade cakes, scones and biscuits and is the perfect end to a winter walk of discovery. Seating is in several quirkily styled sheds with the addition of a new winter cabin. While there, pick up homemade jams and farm eggs from the Egg Shed – just drop your money into the honesty box! Finally, city dwellers who don’t want to venture too far can enjoy a historical walk along the River Wensum from Foundry Bridge outside Norwich railway station to Pulls Ferry (close to Bishop Bridge - one of the oldest bridges still in use in England today - and Cow Tower, a 12th century boom tower). A slip way at Pulls Ferry was the route taken to bring Caen stone in the 13th century from Normandy into Norwich to build the cathedral. Entry from the slip way takes walkers into Cathedral Close (the largest Close in England) and into Norwich’s cathedral quarter. The site of the cathedral is made up of 44 acres with a village green, cloisters and herb garden. Outside the cathedral grounds wander along Bishopsgate to view the exterior of the Great Hospital (c. 1249) and stop for a pint at the Maids Head Hotel. The site of the hotel has been a place of hospitality since the early 12th century, when the early Norman Bishops of Norwich established a guest house. The hotel claims to be the oldest in Britain. Its guests over the centuries have included The Black Prince (eldest son of King Edward III), Catherine of Aragon, Queen Elizabeth I and Admiral Lord Nelson. Finish by walking through one of the most picturesque thoroughfares in Norwich, Elm Hill, and Norwich’s most complete medieval street. But be warned; don’t let the cobbles catch you out!

FOR MORE INFORMATION, visit www.visitnorwich.co.uk.

Sales Diary 2015 Fine Antiques with Clocks & Watches 19th & 20th May 24th, 25th & 26th November

Antiques with Clocks & Watches 6th & 7th January 10th & 11th March 14th & 15th July 8th & 9th September

Antiques with Collectors & Militaria 10th & 11th February 14th & 15th April 16th & 17th June 11th & 12th August 6th & 7th October

Wine Sales 20th May 26th November

Ornithology 4th September

Classic Car Sale Date to be announced

East Anglian Art 13th March (pm) 27th November

Country Sale

Selected Quality Pictures

Every Monday (Tuesday after a Bank Holiday)

13th March (am) 11th December

Commercial & Deadstock Sale

Picture & Prints

Usually held on the last Monday of the month (Tuesday after a Bank Holiday)

6th February 10th April 8th May 3rd July 2nd October

Important Summer Sale of Fine Paintings 7th August

Books & Ephemera 29th & 30th January 26th & 27th March 28th & 29th May 30th & 31st July 24th & 25th September 19th & 20th November

Palmers Lane, Aylsham, Norfolk NR11 6JA

01263 733195

salerooms@keysauctions.co.uk

Realised ÂŁ4,100

keysauctions.co.uk

LUST LIST

LOCAL BOOKS

No. 01

No. 03

No. 04

No. 09 No. 02

lust list WE LOVE LOCAL, AND THAT INCLUDES OUR

No. 05

READING MATERIAL, TOO. EMMA OUTTEN LOOKS AT THE LATEST EAST ANGLIAN TITLES

No. 08

1. N ovember Keys, Michael and Brian Turner, New Generation Publishing, £7.99, visit Amazon 2. C old War East Anglia, Jim Wilson, The History Press, £12.99, Jarrold’s 3. Norfolk Through Time, Mike Rouse, Amberley Publishing, £14.99, www.amberleybooks.com 4. N orfolk Churches From The Air, Mike Page and Pauline Young, Poppyland, £12.95, Jarrold’s 5. Norfolk in a Nutshell, Keith Skipper, Poppyland, £9.95, Jarrold’s 6. The East Anglian Cottage, Trevor Yorke, Countryside Books, £6.95, Jarrold’s 7. W ells next the Sea – A small port and a wide world, Roger Arguile, Poppyland, paperback £14.95, hardback £19.95, Jarrold’s 8. Great War Britain - Norfolk: Remembering 1914-1918, Steve Smith, The History Press, £9.99, Jarrold’s 9. Amelia Opie - The Quaker Celebrity, Ann Farrant, JJG, £25, Jarrold’s

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No. 07

No. 06

| JANUARY 2015

A NEW MUSICAL VERSION OF MADE IN DAGENHAM IS THE LATEST WEST END OPENING. SARAH HARDY ENJOYS THIS COMIC, RAUCOUS SHOW WITH ITS SERIOUS MESSAGE

LMOST 50 YEARS after women at the Ford factory in Dagenham went on strike - and later won a change in the law for equal pay - a musical about them has opened in the West End. It stars Gemma Arterton, a Bond girl from Quantum of Solace, who plays everyday housewife and mum, Rita O’Grady, who takes on the government, big business and her hubbie – and wins. Arterton, best known as a bit of screen goddess, is touching as the ‘ordinary’ woman who becomes the reluctant protestor. She appears fragile yet is determined to seek a fair deal for herself and her co-workers - all because she doesn’t want her daughter to experience the sort of life she has had. The show, which was a hit movie in 2010, highlights the injustice of unequal pay in the late 1960s and the sort of chauvinism (and tough American corporatism) the women had to overcome. The story remains much the same as the movie: the inspirational account of 187 women who stitched seat covers and, in defiance of their union, went on strike for equal pay. Despite this tough subject matter, the show has a very light touch and plenty of gags, quirky songs and lots of filthy language – it wouldn’t be suitable for children, for sure! It is packed with catchy tunes by David Arnold (Hot Fuzz and Sherlock) which also have very cheeky lyrics by Richard Thomas

WEST END REVIEW

MADE IN DAGENHAM

Photo: Manuel Harlan

Photo: Alex James

Gemma Arterton as Rita O’Grady

(Jerry Springer The Opera). Some of the best lines include: ‘Rome wasn’t built in a day but Dagenham was,’ ‘Blue-collar car man, that’s who we are, Shame we can’t afford a car,’ and how about ‘It’s easy to be in opposition – it’s mostly eating and drinking!’ I really liked the set, which looked as if had had plenty of cash spent on it. Designer Bunny Christie let her imagination run riot as she recreated the factory shop floor and I love her 60s interiors, especially Rita’s family home. I spotted lots of familiar items from my childhood including geometric bed linen – ouch! And the costumes, all little shift dress and short macs, were fun, too. The cast is pretty spot-on, especially the strikers. Sophie Stanton plays the potty-mouthed Beryl, Isla Blair is well cast as veteran shop steward Connie and Sophie Isaacs’s Sandra is the not-as-daftas-she-looks bottle blonde who would once have been played by Barbara Windsor. Sophie-Louise Dann is superb as the feisty Barbara Castle, brought in as Employment Minister to sort out the strikers. With her kitten heels and tight dresses, she is everything you’d expect from the tough cookie who had to be harder and brasher than her male colleagues simply to survive. Steve Furst as the US Ford boss dispatched to stamp out the trouble-makers was a rocking Bruce Springfield lookalike who damned anything British from Cilla Black to Whipsnade Zoo! I struggled a little bit with Harold Wilson, camped up by Mark Hadfield. He was portrayed as little more than a complete twit who only managed one sensible thing – to employ our Babs! With strikes a thing of the past these days, it is great to recall one which actually succeeded and, amongst all the gags, posturing and general mayhem, there is a message for us all to remember: ‘Nothing changes unless it is challenged!’ So, think on, girls, think on. We don’t always get equal pay do we? And don’t even get started on those glass ceilings. There are still plenty of areas where we fall behind so there’s still work to be done.

MADE IN DAGENHAM runs at the Adelphi Theatre, The Strand, London, until March 28. Visit www.madeindagenhamthemusical.com

Photo: Manuel Harlan

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A winning combination of originality and excellence. Exceptional, modern British cuisine. Outstanding service, with a creative and constantly evolving menu, award-winning wines, spirits and fabulous cocktails.

LIVE JAZZ EVERY FRIDAY NIGHT 7pm til late

& Saturdays in LIVE DJ SET Thursdays our cocktail lounge, 9.30-late

Special Jan/Feb 2015 offer 4 course meal £24.95

Dine in style every Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday (includes glass of Prosecco and chef’s appetiser)

VALENTINE’S WEEKEND

Limited places – book your table now to avoid disappointment!

For table reservations or full details of all these special events, please call

01493 331000 · info@pamelasrestaurant.co.uk Wellington Road, Great Yarmouth, NR30 3JJ Dress code: smart-casual. Complementary secure parking provided on request.

PROPERTY OF THE MONTH

| JANUARY 2015

ASCONA, LOWESTOFT

FACTFILE

a view

Rooms with

IF YOU FANCY A FAMILY HOME WITH FIVE BEDROOMS AND THE BEACH JUST A MINUTE FROM YOUR DOOR, THEN LOOK NO FURTHER THAN EDWARDIAN ELEGANCE ON THE SUNRISE COAST, SAYS EMMA OUTTEN

A handsome Edwardian residence with exceptional coastal and sea views Five bedrooms; three receptions; two bathrooms Spacious breakfast kitchen with separate utility Character includes fireplaces, high ceilings, tiled floors and bay windows The grounds extend to 0.33 acres and enjoy a double street frontage The accommodation extends to 2364sqft

GUIDE PRICE £650,000 With such unparalleled views from the front of the house, you’d be H WE DO LIKE TO BE BESIDE THE SEASIDE forgiven for assuming that the rear aspect was pedestrian – how wrong don’t we? And you could enjoy five-star, fiveyou would be! A really lovely terrace off the family room leads into the bedroom style in Lowestoft, Suffolk’s second main garden, which has been lovingly and imaginatively partitioned. largest town. ‘It’s a magical place for children as they can safely explore all the From its super elevated plot, Ascona affords different areas, playing hide and seek or roaming freely while we can fantastic sea views from gorgeous bay windows relax with a drink on the terrace.’ The garden faces west so it benefits in both the formal sitting and dining rooms, as from the afternoon and evening sun and it’s a wonderful place to be on well as from three of the five bedrooms. With nothing (that’s right, a summer’s night. nothing!) between the house and the sea, these This looks like a great place to raise a family. On a uninterrupted coastal views are quite priceless, with very quiet road with the beach close by there’s plenty access to the beach just a minute’s walk away. to enjoy. The owners take their dogs down to the beach During their time here the owners have made a all year round, collecting shells or going for ice cream number of improvements to the property, including Fine and Country with the children. ‘We’ve made lots of memories here. redecorating throughout and refurbishing the Norwich office, 7 Bank Plain, It’s easy to find things to do and to play together. The exquisite parquet flooring. The result is a truly Norwich, NR2 4SF Tel 01603 221888 kids love to zoom down the hill to the beach on their spectacular property that’s both well proportioned www.fineandcountry.com bikes – simple, inexpensive family fun.’ and brimming with charm. As a family home, this is But let’s head back to the property itself. The superb, with the breakfast kitchen the ideal place to family room has an appealing ‘L’ shape and can be share lunch with little ones. found along the rear of the property so you have wonderful views of The family room is spacious and leads out onto the garden, making the terrace and gardens through French doors. the most of the outside space in the warmer months. The owners find The main bathroom boasts a sunken bath, whilst a large window to they use this part of the house more in the day, preferring to eat in the the rear elevation offers views over the rear gardens. formal dining room in the evening, enjoying those incredible views: And the master bedroom offers a fantastic amount of space along ‘Even at night the sea is beautiful, sparkling in the moonlight with the with natural light provided by large windows where – you’ve guessed slow movement of ships passing in the distance,’ explain the owners. it - you have wonderful views over the sea. After dinner they retire to the elegant panelled sitting room with Unsurprisingly, the front garden also affords stunning views of the its period fireplace and those excellent views again. Upstairs all five coastline and sea. But I don’t really need to remind you about the bedrooms are doubles so there’s plenty of room for the family, as well views, do I? as for regular weekend guests.

ESTATE AGENTS

Multi-award winning luxury estate agents in over 275 locations worldwide

Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve got people searching for homes in the Waveney valley and surrounding areas. We are selling in your area! Due to a high demand from buyers looking to purchase in the Waveney region, we urgently require more properties to sell. If you are considering selling, we would welcome the opportunity to discuss our unique marketing strategy and how it could be of benefit to you. For a confidential conversation, without obligation, please call a member of the team in our regional head office on 01603 221888 We look forward to hearing from you. If you have already instructed an agent on a sole agency basis, please check the terms and conditions in order to avoid the potential liability of having to pay two fees.

Norwich 01603 221888 London 02070 791515

FineandCountry

Having had nearly 3 decades of experience of working for large corporate firms including directing and managing local branches whilst breaking sales records along the way, Steve sees this has a wonderful opportunity to be part of a highly respected and trusted name in the town. The idea of working within a leading local brand is one of great appeal to Steve and he is very much looking forward to welcoming clients old and new as he enters this latest stage of what has so far been an illustrious career for him. Owen goes on to say “This is a wonderful acquisition for Darby & Liffen and a statement of intent for our well known family firm. Most of my clients and many in the local community know I’m a big football fan, well in football terms this is a tremendous signing for Darby & Liffen. We can talk all day long about technology, internet portals, local advertising and all the rest of it, when really the biggest thing behind estate agency is people. People sell to people, people buy from people.

STE VE GR AY JOINS FAMILY FIRM

We’re not oblivious to the fact that local estate agency has become far more competitive of late, therefore the timing of Steve’s and my decision to work together probably couldn’t be any better.

DARBY & LIFFEN are delighted to welcome on board highly regarded well respected and vastly experienced estate agent, Steve Gray to the team. Steve brings with him over 25 years of experience and during that time has forged a very successful career working within large organisations and spearheading leading brands of estate agents whilst achieving incredibly impressive results along the way. Managing Director, Owen Darby says: It’s a massive compliment to Darby & Liffen to bring in someone of Steve’s quality for what is already a very well known brand in the local area, a 3rd generation family business which has served the local community for over 50 years.

I WAS FORTUNATE to be offered a few job opportunities however the chance to join Owen at Darby & Liffen was exactly what I was looking for. The chance to merge my 25 years experience running local corporate estate agencies and join an established, well respected independent firm where I could continue to offer a 1st class pro-active selling service however be able to offer ‘non corporate commissions’. Darby & Liffen also offer shorter selling contracts and we do not ask clients to sign up to a lengthy 18 or 20 week contracts like

ABOVE Owen Darby (right) with new recruit Steve Gray

Owen adds ‘Over the years Steve and I have been fierce competitors and have enjoyed a good rivalry. The idea of working with someone of Steve’s pedigree is a very exciting prospect and I’m really looking forward to him linking up with my already tremendously hard working team which we are blessed to have here at Darby & Liffen. A driving force behind our success stems from the spirit we have in the camp and Steve is very excited about being an influential part of that.

some of our competitors. If an estate agent is that confident of selling a property in a short time period why would they demand a lengthy contract?! I will no longer be governed by a head office hundreds of miles away, making office decisions and setting the selling fees. Darby & Liffen have been around for a long time with a thriving lettings business and a great professional friendly sales team.

possible for our vendor in the shortest time with a pro-active selling approach. Some of the larger companies seem more interested in selling the vendor an extra internet package, mortgage or solicitors package. We are the opposite, our main goal is to sell the property. I welcome all clients old and new so if you are thinking of moving or if you are on the market and struggling to sell then please call me at Darby and Liffen on 600411 for a free appraisal.

Owen and I share the same core values, our main aim is to achieve the highest price

www.darbyandliffenea.co.uk · 01493 600411 · info@darbyandliffenea.co.uk

ESTATE

AG EN TS

•

VA LU E RS

•

P ROP E RT Y

MA N AG EMEN T

DARBY & LIFFEN LTD are here to provide you with a comprehensive service for buying, selling, and letting property in the East Norfolk coastal area. We are totally independent and offer a first class service for buyers and sellers, based upon our extensive local knowledge and many years of experience in all aspects of property sales and management.

YOUELL AVENUE, GORLESTON £320,000

FREEMAN CLOSE, HOPTON £300,000

KENNEL LOKE, GORLESTON £299,995

HIGH ROAD, GORLESTON £299,950

ALDER CLOSE, BRADWELL £170,000

SHEARWATER DRIVE, BRADWELL £125,000

42 Bells Road, Gorleston on Sea, Great Yarmouth, Norfolk, NR31 6AN www.darbyandliffenea.co.uk · 01493 600411 · info@darbyandliffenea.co.uk

! RE FI E TH N O G LO ER TH O N A THROW

JUMBO BAGS OF JUMBO LOGS Price + VAT

£59.99

LOFT ROLL

£16.00

100mm AND 150mm

Price per roll, + VAT

The Woodyard, Reedham Road, Acle, NR13 3DF

WWW.RHINOBDS.CO.UK 01493 751762

Two outstanding coastal properties by the agent who gets results www.your-move.co.uk

Find your local Your Move branch… 154 London Road, North Lowestoft 01502 342001 168/169 High Street, Gorleston, Great Yarmouth 01493 600005 · 26-28 New Market, Beccles 01502 273333

Kennel Loke, Gorleston

Low Barn, Weston, Beccles

A superb 4/5 bedroomed house situated at the bottom end of this sought after location with many features including: hall, downstairs cloakroom/WC, study, separate dining room, kitchen/breakfast room, utility room, lounge with gas effect wood burner and double doors leading to conservatory, and rear gardens mainly laid to lawn.

A superb five bedroomed barn conversion with large double garage and attached field features. Includes two en-suite bedrooms, 25’ 10” x 12’ 10” lounge with double doors to rear aspect, woodburner with brick surround, study/dining room, utility room, family room/games room, high spec. 14’ x 13’ kitchen, must be seen.

Offers in excess of £520,000

Offers in excess of £500,000

01493 844 489 路 www.charlesbycroft.co.uk

14 Regent St, Gt. Yarmouth, Norfolk, NR30 1RN

THE HOUSE RENTAL EXPERTS

LOOKING TO LET?

Bycroft Lettings had another record year in 2014 and we want to provide our excellent service to more Landlords in 2015. JANUARY SALE

LET

LANDLORDS Bring your property to Bycroft Lettings and we will waive our standard management fee for the first three months Subject to terms and an initial 12 month contract

| JANUARY 2015

Bilbao Day Bed in antique whisky leather was £1899 sale price £1399 The sinuous lines of this delicious day bed have a Scandinavian style about them. How could one not recline, relax and let the worries of the day disappear? The whole body is cushioned and fully supported for perfect balance and harmony.

INDUSTRIAL CHIC Wooden Arrow Hooks £40 Where does this point to – living room, dining room, the way out! Whatever direction, this funky coat hook is a great place for your Barbour, Crombie or Drizabone.

HAYLEY & SIMON are the gift and furniture buyers at Jarrold’s Jarrold’s, 1-11 London Street, Norwich, NR2 1AL www.jarrold.co.uk The Granary, 5 Bedford Street, Norwich, NR2 1AL www.thegranary.co.uk

DISCOVER A KEY TREND IN THE WORLD OF INTERIORS FOR 2015 WITH OUR HOMES WRITERS SIMON MITCHELL AND HAYLEY PHILPOT

S THE NEW YEAR BEGINS, in the world of modern interiors there

is one trend that continues to dominate. What was once found only in businesses, warehouses and mechanics’ shops has now found its way into our homes and has become the very popular ‘industrial style’. In the world of furniture, simple shapes with angular edges and the combination of hard metal with soft leather or plush upholstery are still in abundance. Matte grey, cream and putty shades are still the favoured pantones for décor but with the addition of accessory highlights such as sky blue, purple and the odd zing of scarlet. Raw materials, galvanised steel, reclaimed wood and metal accents are all there to complete this urban loft style.

Pyramid Wine Rack £15 Simple in design but really effective, this metal rack would grace anyone’s wine collection from Chablis to Cabernet Sauvignon, Prosecco to the finest Moet et Chandon.

INTERIORS

2015 TRENDS

Parlane Drinks Party Bucket £20 How fabulous would this galvanised bucket look full of ice and a stack of your guest’s favourite lager and beer? The guys at the party will certainly be impressed, that’s for sure.

Condo Double Room Divider was £3299 sale price £2450 Solid and sturdy yet beautiful in its own right, this room divider needs very little adornment. It is versatile too, as it can also double as a wall unit. This range is made from reclaimed wood from Chinese junks, and shiny steel. The wood undergoes a lengthy recovery process to retain the natural beauty of the Sassafras, and every nail is recycled where possible. The wood is then stripped bare to give it that essential rustic edge.

Halo Barbican Corner Sofa in antique whisky leather was £5199 sale price £3899. Harlequin Square Coffee Table was £879 sale price £659. Stonyhurst Large Chest was £2399 sale price £1799 This wonderful UK manufacturer Halo started as an antique business in 1976 and you can still see a strong influence of this in the designs today. The soft leather comfort of the corner unit contrasts perfectly with the starkness of the stripped floor providing a clean, unfussy combination, and the angular metal and wood occasional table with its simple design provides an ideal partner. No ordinary side board would do in this contemporary setting but a chest that pays homage to the world of antique travel is the perfect choice – available in small, medium and large.

Air Bubble Bottles 355 x 170mm £50, 425 x 215mm £70 These are stunning as a single vase or as a pair, and on a higher surface with the light behind, they look quite magical. Try filling them with coloured liquid for a different look.

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Dark Brass Angled Lamp £250 A true statement piece in its own right, this beautifully designed anglepoise is not only architectural but practical too.

Malini Faux Linen Cushion with button detail £20. Deep Pleat scarlet cushion £30. Burnt Velvet cushion in silver grey £25. Malini Large Velvet cushions in red and silver £28 Malini is one of the most respected interior accessories brands and again, UK based. They specialise in quality and have built a reputation for providing products for the most discerning and eclectic tastes. This selection of cushions can either provide a vital contrast to the hard metal and unfussy seating with a splash of unexpected colour, or add a further element of metal in the form of a silver highlight in soft velvet and linen. Once the seating is in place, it’s time for the final top dressing, with strategically placed focus items to catch the eye. That industrial feel can be maintained with a whole host of accessories - like a stylish lamp to create an exciting silhouette or an eye-catching vase to really lift a plain surface. An element of fun can be added to entertaining as well with the addition of clever barware items.

The Kitchen Shop

Showroom Open: Monday - Friday 9am - 4.30pm

Saturday 9.30am - Midday

Appointments Always Available.

FREE

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CLAIM A BOROUGH BOX ARTISAN HAMPER WITH THE PURCHASE OF SELECTED SLIDE&HIDE速 OVENS* To find out more visit your local kitchen specialist showroom. Address 1 Shop The Kitchen Address 2 &Road, 3 Unit 8 Owen Great Yarmouth, Norfolk, NR31 0NA Telephone 01493 923113 揃 info@thekitchenshopgy.co.uk Dealer Web address

Selected Slide&Hide速 models only. Promotion runs from 7th November 2014 until 31st January 2015. Available from participating Neff Kitchen Specialists. Terms & conditions apply.

Click on johnlewis.com today, collect in WaitroseNorwich tomorrow

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| JANUARY 2015

N O S L AC K I N G ! Our gardening writer Ellen Mary isn’t putting her feet up despite it being a quiet time of year in the garden

anuary can be a subdued time in the garden but, as always, there are still jobs to do to ensure the garden is ready for spring. This time of year is hard for our feathered friends so make sure that when you are planning what to plant in your garden this year, remember to think about shrubs and trees which will give birds homes, shelter and food. You may find your usual garden birds becoming a little more adventurous as they are on their quest to find food and you may even be lucky enough to make a friend of a trusting blackbird or robin.

Garden and Flowers If there is snow this month, brush it from hedges and conifers to stop them breaking under its weight. It’s also a good idea to do the same with your greenhouse or cold frame or you may find a nasty crack in the glass. You might miss the enjoyment of planting this month so try planting amaryllis bulbs indoors. If you pot these huge bulbs with the top third showing above the compost, you should see your beautiful indoor flowers in early spring. There are so many colours to choose from, you can match the flowers with your interiors. Hellebores are elegant flowers which bloom in late winter to early spring. There are many varieties available which you can buy from garden centres and are a great addition to any garden. If you already have some, now is a good time to remove any brown leaves to make the new flowers visible as they bloom in the spring.

HELLEBORE

AMARY

LLIS

GARDENING

JOBS FOR THE MONTH

Fruit and Vegetables If you enjoy a tasty rhubarb crumble and can’t wait until your stems are ready in spring, you can try forcing your rhubarb plants by putting an upturned bucket or a bin over the crown. This will force your lovely tender pink stems to be ready in approximately eight weeks. Whilst there can be hard frosts in January, take time to write down what fruit or vegetables you’ve grown previously and what you would like to grow this year. By reviewing what worked for you it will be easier to plan what to grow and how to rotate for the coming season. When you’ve planned what you want to grow, grab yourself some seed catalogues and start by ordering your seed potatoes and onion sets. Even if you don’t have a lot of space, potatoes can be grown in large sacks and still supply you with a bumper crop.

Wildlife Gardening Winter months can sometimes bring new wildlife to our gardens - such as redwings - looking for valuable berries. Keep an eye out because it really is wonderful to see what you can entice to your garden when food is available. Fallen apples can still be a good food source for birds but if you don’t have a garden, bird feeders can simply be stuck on the outside of your window. Why not try designing your own wildlife patch? There are many simple things that you can do such as having your own wildflower patch or even just a pot with wildlife seeds scattered in it. Perhaps you could start to think about building your own insect hotel from old pallets, pieces of wood and other garden items and sowing wildflowers close by? It’s tempting to use the quieter months to have a tidy up in the shed and around the garden. Be sure not to disturb creatures hibernating in your shed or under piles of leaves and twigs in the garden. Piles of leaves, stems and the seed heads of flowers provide essential shelter for over-wintering lacewings and ladybirds so let them be until later in the year.

Ellen Mary Gardening provides no jargon, easy to follow gardening advice, along with a range of colourful gardening products at: www.ellenmarygardening.co.uk

Gardening Product of the Month These packs of bee friendly seeds save you having to buy separate packs. Available in a yellow or blue mix, they are designed to not just look pretty but to help bees pollinate. £8.99.

Give it a go

chard ated talk by Ri n from an illustr tio ra pi ins ke Ta and now regular NWT director rty, Hobbs, former lk’s Garden Pa rfo No BBC Radio at contributor to nia ve s of Slo ins and Meadow ore on the Mounta 9 at 7.45pm. M y ar nu Ja on Hall Ingham Village uk g. or st. ru norfolkwildlifet details on www.

Available from Ellen Mary’s website.

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SERVES 4

Ingredients

4 venison loin steaks 200g of curly kale 2oz of butter

TH IS MONTH S IM ON WA IN W R IGHT , EXECU T IVE HEAD C HE F AT TH E IMPERIAL H OT E L IN GR E AT YARMOUTH , OFFE R S A HE A RT Y YET U PMARKET SUPPE R D ISH U SING VENIS ON

For the Blackberry Jus: 2 punnets of blackberries 75ml of red wine 50ml of port 125ml of chicken stock 1tbsp of honey 2oz of butter For the Celeriac PurĂŠe: 300g of celeriac, peeled & chopped into 3cm cubes 600ml of full fat milk 40g of butter Salt and pepper

www.barkersphotos.co.uk

Pictures by BARKERS PHOTOGRAPHIC, GORLESTON,

| JANUARY 2015

RECIPE

IMPERIAL HOTEL

Pan Roasted Venison with Celeriac Purée, Curly Kale and Blackberry Jus

Method 1. For the celeriac purée, place the celeriac and milk into a heavy based saucepan and bring to the boil. 2. Reduce the heat and simmer until the celeriac is tender. Drain, reserving the milk and leave in the colander for 5 minutes to drive off any excess steam, then purée in a food processor or blender until smooth using a little of the milk and butter to help get the right consistency. Season with salt and pepper, cover and leave to one side. 3. For the blackberry jus, place everything into a saucepan except the butter and bring to the boil squashing the blackberries to the edge of the saucepan. Simmer for 10 minutes then push through a fine sieve, pushing through as much as you can. 4. Next, in a large frying pan on a high heat, fry the venison steaks on each side for about 1 minute or until nicely coloured either side. Transfer to an oven tray and roast for 5-10 minutes keeping them nice and pink. Remove from oven and leave to rest for 5 minutes. 5. Next cook the kale in a saucepan with a splash of water, 2oz of butter, and salt and pepper until wilted. 6. To finish the sauce, boil it to reduce it by a third then shake in the remaining 2oz of butter. 7. To serve, slice the venison steaks, place a spoonful of celeriac purée in the centre of a bowl with a little of the wilted kale on top, ladle the sauce around with the sliced venison on top. 8. Garnish with micro herbs.

Wine Choice

2011 Valpolicella Classico Superiore, Ripasso, Acinatico NICK MOBBS, DIRECTOR AND WINE EXPERT AT THE IMPERIAL HOTEL, SAYS: THE WINE I HAVE CHOSEN to go with Simon’s venison dish is an old favourite with a

modern twist. Classically, Valpolicella is a lighter style of wine made from the local grapes of Rondinella, Corvinone, Molinara and Corvina. However, the word Ripasso changes the flavour and structure of the wine dramatically. In the 1990s the Ripasso technique, which literally means repassed, emerged. Here the wine maker takes the leftover grape skins and seeds from the fermentation of Amarone and adds them to the Valpolicella wine for an extended period of maceration. This helps to increase the alcohol level, body and structure to give a much richer wine. The Ripasso is aged in barriques of French oak for 12 months, then another six in bottles. This is a full-bodied and deep garnet in colour wine. The nose displays intense aromas of prunes and wild cherries with savoury toasted notes. Round and smooth on the palate, this ‘baby Amarone’ is the perfect accompaniment to the venison dish.

• A team of brilliant chefs • Superb wine list • Laid-back atmosphere The perfect restaurant for dinner or Sunday lunch. At the Imperial Hotel, North Drive, Gt Yarmouth, NR30 1EQ. To book call 01493 842000

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Thursday Steak Night from £40 for Two 28 day dry aged Sirloin Steak or Fillet Steak (£3.75 supplement per person) with Ingham Chips, Baked Field Mushroom and Wild Roquette Salad

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S E A R E D SA L M O N W IT H B O U L A N G È R E P OTATO E S A N D A DZ U K I B E A N S Serves Four Ingredients for the adzuki beans 300g of dry adzuki beans 1 litre of vegetable stock ¼ of a bunch of chopped parsley 40g of unsalted butter 2 pinches of table salt 1 pinch of ground white pepper

RECIPE

FRANCK PONTAIS

Full of Beans

OUR FRENCH CHEF FRANCK PONTAIS IS FULL OF BEANS AS HE KICKS OFF THE NEW YEAR WITH A HEALTHY RECIPE FOR US ALL TO ENJOY

METHOD FOR THE ADZUKI BEANS

Ingredients for the salmon and tomato sauce 4 pieces of salmon with the skin on 40g of unsalted butter 1 tbsp of rapeseed oil 200ml of tomato sauce 2 pinches of table salt 1 pinch of white ground pepper

Ingredients for the potato boulangère 500g of peeled potatoes 1 medium onion 400ml of vegetable stock 40g of unsalted butter Table salt White ground pepper

LET OUR FRENCH CHEF cook for your private dinner parties, and for those who really enjoy cooking, he also offers master classes, for all abilities, in your own home. More information is available at www.franckpontais.com

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1. Soak the beans for 24 hours. You can also

boil the water immediately for a few minutes and then set the beans aside to soak for one to three hours. If you boil the beans for two or three minutes and let them sit overnight, you’ll reduce the amount of sugars that cause gas problems. 2. Drain the beans, and refill the pot with clean water. Again, use enough to cover the beans well, using three parts water to one part beans. 3. Boil the water and beans and then lower the heat so that they simmer. 4. Test how soft the beans are after 45 minutes by cutting one with a fork against the side of the pot. Hold onto the pot to ensure that the pressure from cutting the bean against the side doesn’t push the pot off the burner. 5. Turn off the heat when the beans are done, drain off the water, mix the beans with the butter and chopped flat parsley. 6. Season to taste and serve.

METHOD FOR THE SALMON AND TOMATO SAUCE 1. Using kitchen paper, dry the salmon, skin down, and season with salt and pepper. 2. Meanwhile heat, in a non-stick pan, the oil and the butter. 3. Sear the salmon, skin down, for 2 minutes on a medium to hot heat and finish cooking in an oven at 230C for 8 minutes. Reserve. 4. Simmer the tomato sauce. METHOD FOR THE POTATO BOULANGÈRE 1. Melt the butter and brush the inside of 4 ramekin or pudding moulds. 2. Finely slice the potatoes and the onions. 3. Alternate slices of onions and potatoes in the ramekins. 4. Fill each dish slightly other the top and pour some vegetable stock in each dish. 5. Cook in a Bain Marie in an oven at 200c for 30 to 35 minutes. 6. Gently press the top of each ramekin, then discard the stock. 7. Cool for a few minutes, take off the mould and place on a plate. 8. Serve these potatoes with the salmon, tomato sauce and adzuki beans.

Photography by ANDREW FLORIDES, www.andrewflorides.co.uk

Visit Titchwell Manor Stunning boutique hotel Titchwell Manor on the North Norfolk coast offers 27 stunning individually designed bedrooms and award-winning dining. Choose from the informal Eating Rooms complete with sea view terrace, or the fine dining Conservatory. A L A C A RT E • TA S T I N G M E N U S • A F T E R N O O N T E A • T H R E E A A RO S E T T E S • S E A V I E W S

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WINE

DIFFERENT LABELS

TIME FOR A CHANGE IT’S THE NEW YEAR AND OUR WINE WRITER SAM MATTHEWS WANTS US TO BE BOLD AND TRY OUT LESSER KNOWN TIPPLES WHICH COST A BIT LESS, TOO

S I REACH INTO MY TATTY OLD winemakers in this part of the world have caught up with WALLET and remember the sorry state New World producers using more modern techniques to of my bank account the wrong side of produce some stunning wine from their own varietals. Christmas, I realise that I need to be a Look out for grape varieties Primitivo, Sangiovese and bit savvier along the drinks aisles of the Nebbiolo on the shelves. You should be happy with all of supermarket than last month. these if you like a rich powerful red. In January the shops are brimming with sales, and so is When going for a white wine, Spain seems to be the wine section of the supermarket. After splashing out leading the way with better value. The grape varieties to in the run up to Christmas, upgrading your Temperanillo for look out for this time are Verdejo and Macabeo. Both can Rioja Crianza and the Chilean Sauvignon for the five-yearbe similar in flavours to a great Viognier and are what I old Sancerre, it’s time to cut back again. But is there a way would consider to be a good winter white. And if you ever of keeping the quality and cutting back the pennies? see an Albarino on offer, snap it up. It offers the freshness If you are willing to mix it up a bit with your preferred of a crisp Sauvignon Blanc with the elegance and flavour wine of choice and balance of a rich Burgundy opt for that different Sauvignon. label of different Lastly, a prediction for the The days of rich, creamy, origin, you can usually New Year, and again where oaky Chardonnays seem to save yourself a few I think good value can be pence and maintain found, is with Chardonnay. have gone and Australia that sought after My on and off, up and down has launched somewhat of quality. relationship with Chardonnay a revolution over the last In December, on has gone full circle, and I the odd night I get a now can’t get enough of couple of years for this most waking hour at home this grape variety again. diverse of grape varieties. to enjoy a glass of The reason being that some wine after work, it’s cooler climate Chardonnays usually the very first are hitting the shelves, and in bottle I’ve clapped my eyes on at the convenience store the restaurants the term ABC (anything but chardonnay!) on my way home from work. It’s pretty much the one with is being used less and less. The days of rich, creamy, the big yellow offer label on. Into the New Year and after oaky Chardonnays seem to have gone and Australia has the busy festive rush, there’s suddenly a lot more time to launched somewhat of a revolution over the last couple of make an educated and thought-about selection from the years for this most diverse of grape varieties. shelves. Then, of course, there’s the time to chill it down Whilst they are still relatively inexpensive, they offer if needed at home, rather than down an emergency glass very good value for money. Look for varieties from the before the coat comes off. Adelaide Hills or Tasmania, New Zealand, or cooler areas My favourite tactic in finding a great wine bargain is of Chile, and give this grape variety a much deserved going for the lesser known but great grape varieties, second chance! especially the ones that haven’t made their way into Whatever your drinking habits and however much is in mainstream restaurants yet. For example, Pinot Grigio the purse, my main tip would be to try something new. about 10 years ago, Malbec’s five years ago, or Picpoul You may be pleasantly surprised! de Pinet a couple of years ago. These are all now regular names seen all over wine lists and supermarket shelves. SAM MATTHEWS is Food & Beverage Manager When looking at reds, I believe that there will be at The Assembly House, Norwich. great value to be found in 2015 in Southern Italy. The www.assemblyhousenorwich.co.uk

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V I S I T U S AT T H E M U L B E R RY

N E W Y E A R, NEW MENUS

COMPETITION

FARMER BROWNS

FINE DINING IN THE CITY CENTRE FOR SIX PEOPLE IS THIS MONTH’S FABULOUS COMPETITION PRIZE. READ ON TO FIND OUT MORE

his month, Places & Faces has teamed up with Farmer Browns, in Norwich’s historic heart, to offer one lucky reader the chance to win dinner for six people, plus wine. Farmer Browns is a firm favourite in the city’s gourmet scene, offering fine dining in very elegant surroundings. Set in a glorious Georgian building in Tombland, with steps heading up to an elegant front door, you immediately know that you are in for a treat. The wide hallway is just the place to greet your party before heading into one of two possible dining rooms, both of which boast high ceilings and huge windows which give fabulous views over Tombland. Perfect for people spotting! To the right is the Red Room, all vintage chic with bold wallpapers and eye catching lamp shades. The room to the left has more of a canteen feel, with retro tiling and an openplan kitchen where you can see the team in action. Food is based on local ingredients and is not overly complicated. Rather the team prefer to let the top quality ingredients speak for themselves. Look out for the signature sirloin steaks which are divine and make sure you leave room for a pud as they are jolly naughty indeed, especially the fruit crumbles. Staff, including manageress Mary, are young, energetic and friendly and there is a laid back feel to this city centre spot. So for somewhere right in the centre of Norwich, offering thoughtful food in attractive surroundings, Farmer Browns is just the place to celebrate the start of a new year.

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To enter our competition, simply answer the following question: Q: WHERE IS FARMER BROWNS SITUATED IN NORWICH? There are two ways of entering. You can answer this question and send your entry to competitions@h2creativemedia.co.uk. Remember to include your answer, name, address, email and a daytime telephone number. Or, if you’re into social media, you can go to our Facebook page, www.facebook.com/ placesandfacesmagazine and like and share the competition. It’s that simple! The prize is dinner for six, with a bottle of house wine, and is not available on Saturdays and Sundays. The prize must be used by the end of March 2015, entrants must be over 18 and all other drinks must be paid for separately. Normal Places&Faces® competitions rules apply and the editor’s decision is final. See our website for more details. The closing date is January 31 2015 when a winner will be selected at random.

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NEW WINTER WARMER LUNCH DEALS 2 courses for £12.95 1 course £9.95 Available Monday - Friday Lunchtimes

Try our new Daily Specials menu using the best of locally sourced ingredients

Tel: +44 (0)1502 501 353 • www.ivyhousecountryhotel.co.uk Ivy House Country Hotel, Ivy Lane, Oulton Broad, Lowestoft, Suffolk, NR33 8HY

CELLAR RESTAURANT AND BAR

Established 1977

For probably the finest selection of seafood and shellfish in the town We also specialise in top quality aged and matured steaks plus seasonal game dishes. Private function room available for up to 90 people, ideal for all parties, receptions or private functions complete with fully licensed bar. Come and try the fabulous food, intimate surroundings and friendly, warm welcome that has made The Executive a popular dining venue in town for over 35 years.

Just a selection from our ever changing specials board The freshest, most succulent and tender king scallops with chorizo Freshly caught local lobster prepared to your individual taste The finest selection of mature steaks using only the best Scottish beef; fillet, sirloin or rib eye Seasonal selection of local game dishes

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| JANUARY 2015

CHEESE PLEASE!

PICTURES BY ANDY NEWMAN ASSOCIATES, NORWICH

n a countryside where factory farming and economies of scale are increasingly the norm, the traditional model of familyrun, mixed farms is becoming increasingly rare. And yet, if you look hard enough, you will find such enterprises here in Norfolk, and it is no coincidence that they are producing some of the county’s finest food. Church Farm in Frettenham, near Norwich, is a shining example of this. Farmed by the Norton family since 1946, it consists of around 400 acres split into two blocks around the village. Despite the advent of intensive farming methods, agrochemicals and production subsidies, the family has remained wedded to the idea of mixed farming, essentially a system of livestock and arable production on the same farm. Traditionally, this broad range of crops and livestock was reared on every farm, to spread the risk should any one crop fail. But it wasn’t just about hedging the farmer’s bets: in mixed farming, each part of the system supports the rest. So livestock by-products such as manure is used to maintain and improve soil fertility, whilst feed crops can be grown as part of an arable rotation, breaking pest and disease cycles naturally. The family aspect of Church Farm is also important. I am met at the farm gate by Emily Norton, part of the fourth generation of the family to work the farm. I have come to see Emily, because she is responsible for the latest innovation at the farm: an soft cow’s milk cheese called St Swithin’s Soft, which is gaining a growing reputation amongst foodies in the know.

EMILY NORTON

THIS MONTH, FOOD WRITER ANDY NEWMAN FINDS A SOFT COW’S MILK CHEESE BEING MADE ON A TRADITIONAL FAMILY FARM, AND TOP NORFOLK CHEF ROGER HICKMAN CREATES A WARM SALAD DESIGNED TO BRING OUT ITS FLAVOUR

The origins of the cheese came in 2007, when the family realised that low milk commodity prices were making the farm unsustainable. The solution was to set up Norton’s Dairy, which began selling liquid milk from the farm’s herd of 70 cross-bred brown Swiss cows locally. The milk proved very popular, very different from the homogenised product you will find on the supermarket shelf – a proper pint, high in butter fat and protein, and with a cream on the top. But the market for this product was always going to be finite, and so there was a need to find other ways of adding value to the herd’s output. It was in 2010 when Emily found herself on a cheese-making course, and realised this would be an ideal way of making the most of the farm’s high quality milk. She is not the first Norfolk dairy farmer to have this epiphany, but whereas much of the county’s output is in the form of harder cheeses, Emily found that the type of cheese which came most naturally to her was a soft one. Partly this was due to her commitments elsewhere on the farm. Because soft cheeses set very slowly, the production process allows the cheesemaker time to do other things in the meantime, as opposed to harder cheeses which need more intense attention. On a family farm where there are 101 other jobs demanding her time, this was ideal.

NORFOLK PRODUCE

CHEESE

ST SWITHIN’S Soft Norfolk Cheese is

available from a number of local retailers, including Truly Local at Stalham, Meals at Wayford Bridge, Farm To Fork at Horstead, Walsingham Farm Shop and Jarrold’s in Norwich. Emily also attends the Creake Abbey Farmers’ Market. For more details, visit www.nortonsdairy.co.uk.

RECIPE Roger Hickman’s warm Jerusalem artichoke, pickled celeriac and salsify salad with St Swithin’s cheese and dukkah crumb SERVES FOUR

INGREDIENTS

For the first couple of years, St Swithin’s was very much a small-scale operation, with the cheese being made in Emily’s kitchen at home, and sold to a small number of local customers. But in 2012 came another breakthrough. Emily decided to enter her cheeses into the British Cheese Awards – ‘just out of curiosity’ – and was gobsmacked to find herself with two Gold medals, marking out her product as being amongst the top ten per cent of British cheeses. That confidence boost was the spur she needed, and with the help of grant funding, investment in a new cheesery followed, and production increased – although this is still very much a human-scale enterprise, making around 300 packs of cheese a week. The product itself is quite unlike any other Norfolk cheese I have tasted. Creamy and fresh, it offers a tangy flavour with an almost citrus acidity – ideal for the cheese board, and for savoury and sweet dishes (it would make a very good cheesecake). Two variants have joined the range. Wanting to encapsulate the Norfolk-ness of the cheese, Emily developed a version coated in lavender, rosemary and sorrel, which infuses a delicious herbiness throughout the cheese (a chicken breast stuffed with this would be very tempting); next came a version with apricots, allowing the natural sweetness of the cheese to come through. A version infused with chilli flakes is in development. But this is not going to become an industrial-scale enterprise. ‘It is very important for me to keep a personal relationship with the product,’ says Emily. ‘Everything about our farm is keeping things in balance. I love the livestock side of the farm, it is hugely rewarding – so any growth will only happen if I can maintain that balance.’ That personal attention is evident in the product; this is a Norfolk cheese which can stand comparison not just with other British cheeses, but with the big names from France. I urge you to try it – it really is very good indeed. Subscribe online at www.placesandfaces.co.uk

20 Jerusalem artichokes, 4 sticks salsify, chopped into batons, ½ celeriac, a shallot, a sprig of thyme, leaves picked, a knob of butter, a splash of white wine, a splash of cream, rapeseed oil, 400ml of water, 100ml of white wine vinegar, 100ml of olive oil, a pinch of sugar, 3 sprigs of thyme, 1 tsp coriander seeds, 1 tsp cumin seeds, 1 tsp sesame seeds, 50g hazelnuts, ½ tsp sea salt, ½ tsp cracked black pepper

Start by making your dukkah crumb – this is an Egyptian spice mix which adds a lovely fragrant flavour. Toast the coriander, cumin, sesame, hazelnuts, salt and pepper in a dry pan, until they start to colour. Allow to cool, and then blitz in a food processor. Peel all the artichokes. Slice two of them thinly with a mandolin, and deep fry them at 170°C until they are golden. Season, and these are your artichoke crisps. Chop eight more artichokes finely, likewise the shallot. Sweat these, together with the picked thyme leaves, in a pan with the butter, until they are translucent. Now add the wine, and cook until everything is mushy – you may need to add a little water. Then add the cream, and bring quickly to the boil, and remove from the heat. Blitz this in a food processor, and pass through a sieve to give you a smooth purée. Roast the remaining ten artichokes in a pan with some rapeseed oil, shaking continuously until they are golden. Now wrap the artichokes loosely in some tin foil, making sure the bag is sealed, put back in the pan, and bake for 10-15 minutes in the oven at 180°C. Repeat this process with the salsify, but they will need five minutes longer in the oven. Put the water, vinegar, olive oil, sugar, thyme sprigs and a pinch of salt into a pan, and bring to the boil. Slice the celeriac with a mandolin. Remove the pickling liquor from the heat, and put the celeriac slices in the pan; leave to cool. Beat the cheese with lemon juice and some lemon zest until it is loose – you can add a little milk if need be – you are aiming to make it a piping consistency. Dress the plate as shown in the picture, finally sprinkling the dukkah crumb over everything.

Roger Hickman is chef-proprietor at Roger Hickman's Restaurant in Upper St Giles, Norwich. More details at www.rogerhickmansrestaurant.com. 67

| JANUARY 2015

NORWICH PRISON, YES, THAT’S RIGHT, IS NOW HOME TO A GREAT CAFÉ. SARAH HARDY STRETCHES HER LEGS ON MOUSEHOLD HEATH BEFORE TUCKING INTO LUNCH AT THE BRITANNIA CAFÉ

OU MIGHT NOT THINK IT but eating out at Norwich Prison is a very pleasant affair. Britannia Café, situated in the old barracks, is a shabby chic eaterie serving proper British food. It is just celebrating its first birthday and can only be regarded as a real success story. It was set up by Davina Tanner, who many of us know as the former general manager of Intu Chapelfield, our leading shopping centre in Norwich. Along with prison governor Will Styles, she thought of running a café as a social enterprise, giving prisoners the chance to gain valuable work experience, developing skills and acquiring knowledge so they could help themselves once released. In short, the café provides them with fresh incentives so they do not re-offend. The café, all very stylish with a patriotic red, white and blue colour scheme, has a Great Britain theme. There is a leather Chesterfield for those who want to sip coffee and chat and then numerous tables and chairs mixed and matched around the café. There is bold wallpaper, stripped and painted wooden floors and large gilt-framed mirrors. Add in several glossy magazines and a couple of newspapers and it is just the place to pass an hour or so, with good coffee and tempting cakes.

It is staffed by low risk Category D prisoners and exoffenders and, in case you are remotely worried, I found it a very unthreatening place. Indeed, the staff are eager to please: they love to talk you through the menu and there’s a friendly atmosphere. The café opens for breakfast which is very popular and offers everything from the full works to delicious pancakes or smoked salmon and scrambled eggs. And those on the go can simply pop in, grab what they fancy and pop off again! Lunch is another busy affair. The place is packed with dog walkers, ladies who lunch, families at weekends and more, including, plenty of members of the prison service. But who can blame then? I would be in there if it was my staff canteen, too! The menu has lots of favourites from fish and chips, bangers and mash, burgers, omelettes and ham, egg, and chips. There are hot baguettes, various sandwiches, a daily soup, salads and a quiche.

EATING OUT

BRITANNIA CAFÉ

I was with a couple of friends and we tried the soup, a decent winter vegetable one; I had a great roast beef baguette with lashings of horse radish sauce and we also tried the burgers which are quite belly-busting! Prices are really reasonable – how does £5.95 for the quiche of the day and £3.95 for a big bowl of soup sound? Really rather good. Other great options include the Sunday roasts (£9.95 for two courses) which are fast becoming a Norwich tradition and the afternoon teas, with old fashioned tiered cake stands making it a bit special, at £14.95 for two. All the breads, cakes and sausage rolls are baked on the premises and the cakes, which include a gluten free option, are very tempting. When I visited, choices included coffee and walnut, lemon drizzle and a classic Victoria sponge. I thoroughly enjoyed my (large) slice of lemon drizzle. Local suppliers are favoured, with meat coming from

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Swannington butchers and cheeses from Fielding Cottage, Honingham, near Dereham. Vegetables are grown in the prison’s own garden. Mention must be made to the café’s location. It is a beautiful building, all gorgeous Victorian architecture and what a position! You can enjoy a stroll on Mousehold Heath and the views from the café over the city are marvellous. All tips are given to Victim Support, and £3000 has already been donated to this charity. Proceeds from the café are ploughed back into training, employment and rehabilitation. It seems as if the success of Britannia Café is set to continue. Ones have already opened at HMP Bure and HMP Wayland and plans are underway for more throughout the country.

CAFÉ BRITANNIA, Britannia Road, Norwich, tel 01603 708600, ex 8770. Visit www.cafebritannia.co.uk

| JANUARY 2015

HEA DY HEIGHTS & DOLOMIT ES M A R K N I C H O L L S V I S I T S T H E D O LO M I T E S A N D D I S C OV E R S M O R E A B O U T T H E R E G I O N ’ S FA S C I N AT I N G H I S TO R Y

TRAVEL

CORTINA

ith 18 peaks rising to above 3000 metres, it is a landscape deemed so beautiful that it has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Jagged, vertical walls, sheer cliffs and narrow, deep and long valleys pose tempting challenges to hikers and climbers. And in the depths of winter, the Dolomites provide exhilarating runs for downhill and cross country skiers. One of the attractions is the Cinque Torre – the five towers – which are visible from the attractive town of Cortina d’Ampezzo a dozen or so miles away. The area was made famous by English and French climbers a century or more ago and remains as appealing today as it did then with the challenge of the steep sides of the Grande Torre, the Romano Torre and the smaller English Tower. The terrain is also criss-crossed with hiking trails and mountain refuges (rifugios) which offer food and shelter for the night. Hikers can walk from one to another, staying overnight at locations such as the 74-bed Rifugio Lagazuoi where, like most of the refuges, there is a comfortable bed – often in a dormitory – showers and a restaurant serving wholesome and sustaining Italian mountain cuisine. It was from the Rifugio Lagazuoi, at 2752m above sea level, that I encountered one of the most fascinating aspects of the Dolomites; a piece of history that remains invisible to those who ski in this part of the world in the winter but 100 years ago was one of the fiercest battlegrounds of the First World War. Instead of digging in to a muddy, poppy-strewn landscape as with the Western Front, the soldiers from the Italian and Austro-Hungarian forces created a trench system out of the limestone rock. It is only after the snows melt and the skiers have long gone that this incredible network of tunnels and gun emplacements becomes visible. The tunnels of Lagazuoi, beneath the Rifugio that bears the name, are one of the more famous remnants of this battleground. Low, narrow, dark and damp, they wind down inside the mountainside for almost 300m with the Italian tunnels often a few mere yards away from the Austrian network. There are hidden chambers, look-out posts, gun positions and evidence of supply lines. The steps are steep, often slippery with the porous rock dripping water along the route. It wasn’t until June 1915 that war came to Cortina d’Ampezzo, which had been part of the AustroHungarian Empire for 400 years. But as conflict destabilised Europe, an opportunistic Italian army saw a chance to re-take the territory.

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The war above Cortina d’Ampezzo, which remained largely untouched by the conflict, raged until October 1917 by which time tens of thousands and more died; from the fighting, the cold or falls. Here, you also encounter the via ferrata or ‘iron road’ used by the Kaiserjager – the Imperial Austrian army – and their Italian counterparts. The intricate system of wires enabled troops to move swiftly and nimbly through the mountains but in recent years has been adapted as a leisure activity with climbers clipping to metal cables fixed to mountainsides to follow the precarious routes. The concept has also been recreated elsewhere in the world. There is a huge variety of via ferrata paths in the Dolomites, some are short and easy climbs, others are challenging and require a good level of physical fitness. In addition, to climbing and hiking, or exploring the fascinating historical sites, there is also a network of mountain bike trails. As with any part of Italy, food is a major attraction in the Dolomites with excellent menus in the mountain rifugios, first class restaurants in hotels and the centre of town, and a growing tradition of combining traditional regional dishes with a modern outlook. Championing that is Riccardo Gaspari, a former downhill ski racer whose family run the El Brite de Larieto agriturismo establishment. They rear their own meat, make pasta, polenta and gnocchi, source herbs and spices from their kitchen garden and create delicious Casunzei, a signature dish of the region, of egg pasta ravioli filled with beetroot and flavoured with hazel-colour butter. Speck, salami and prosciutto is prepared on site and allowed to mature with cheeses and yogurts made in their own dairy and bread – particularly the traditional mountain bread of puccia with fennel seeds – is baked in the farm kitchen. While popular during the summer, Cortina also has a reputation as a picturesque and diverse winter ski resort, renowned for its array of spectacular backdrops. Its ski terrain was made famous by hosting the 1956 Winter Olympics, which was the first to be broadcast on TV.

TRAVEL INFORMATION TRANSPORT: Mark Nicholls flew with easyJet from London Luton Airport to Venice Marco Polo and took the Cortina Express bus from the airport directly to Cortina d’Ampezzo. Journey takes two hours and costs ¤50 return. ACCOMMODATION: He stayed at the centrallylocated Hotel Ancora in Cortina. Rates start from ¤80 per person per day in double room with buffet breakfast. Corso Italia 62, 32043 Cortina d´Ampezzo, tel 0039 0436 3261, www. hotelancoracortina.com RIFUGIO LAGAZUOI: It has a restaurant and dormitory or private rooms for hikers. Prices in private rooms are ¤37 for a bed, and ¤63 half board. Dormitory rooms are ¤28, ¤52 half board. Tel 0039 340 719 5306, website: www.rifugiolagazuoi.com FOR MORE INFORMATION: www.cortina.dolomiti.org

| JANUARY 2015

T I M E T R AV E L L I N G

I N YO R K

THERE’S 2000 YEARS OF HISTORY TO EXPLORE – AND REALLY GOOD SHOPS, TOO. SARAH HARDY ENJOYS A GREAT SHORT BREAK IN YORK

S A CHILD WHO GREW UP IN SHEFFIELD, York was always the preferred spot for school trips and somewhere a bit posh to take our own guests. It has something about it – all that history, great shopping and, of course, the iconic Bettys Tea Rooms for a pit stop. We decided to take our two teenagers for a spot of culture and, bearing in mind they don’t like much apart from small electronics and YouTube clips, we had a very pleasant few days away. I love cities the size of York. You can really get a feel for them over the course of two or three days and take in the major highlights. Much of the centre is pedestrianised so it is easy and safe to get around, especially when there are such great little passages, called snickleways locally, with names like Mad Alice Lane and Whip Ma Whop Ma Gate! 72

And there are all those attractions. Pride of place must be the glorious Gothic Minster which dominates the city’s skyline and took an impressive 250 years to build. Inside is a calm oasis, away from the shops and tourists – and York is always busy – with highly ornate stained glass aplenty. Do take time to climb the steps to the top of the central 200ft high tower for a bird’s eye view of the city and surrounding countryside. Apparently, on a really clear day you can see the coast, some 20-plus miles away. It’s also worth descending into the undercroft and crypt to see Roman, Saxon and Norman remains. I recall many a trip to York Castle Museum which is famous for its collections of costumes, military and social history. Many items, all hoarded by a local Victorian doctor before being given to the city, are displayed in a reconstructed Victorian Street where you wander in and out of shops, really experiencing how life was. The museum also contains a series of period rooms which have interiors from Georgian, Jacobean and Victorian eras before coming up-to-date with a 1980s kitchen which was very familiar to me! The nearby Clifford’s Tower, a Norman fort built in 1250 for Henry III, is another great vantage point with sweeping views over the city and be sure to make time to walk a section of the city walls which date back to Roman times and help explain why the city was such an important stronghold to different generations. York Dungeon is another must as you get up close and personal with key figures from the city’s past, including Guy Fawkes and Dick Turpin, although York’s Chocolate Story, a newish attraction, won the overall prize for top attraction for us. It blends a little bit about the city’s chocolate past, including information of the founding Rowntree and Terry families, with lots of

TRAVEL

YORK

hands on experience, including making your own chocolate lolly. The National Railway Museum speaks for itself and was literally bursting at the seams with train buffs. Look out for Stephenson’s Rocket, the only Japanese Bullet train outside of Japan and a virtual channel tunnel trip. My teenagers preferred the time tunnel that is the Jorvik Viking Centre where you sit in little buggies which take you through ninth century York, meeting some ‘interesting’ characters along the way. It is a bit like something you’d find at Disney, with great special effects, including several rather fragrant moments as you learnt about the city’s developing sewage system! Teenagers don’t do too much culture so we had several shopping sessions, too. York boasts all your favourite High Street stores from Lush to Jack Wills, WH Smith, Sports Direct and more, to quirky little independents. The shops appear all the more charming when they are housed in medieval timbered buildings which tilt so much they look like they might fall over! The narrow cobbled Shambles is one of the most complete medieval streets in Europe while Stonegate and Petergate are two further great hunting grounds. Off-beat shops for me including the rather wonderful Yorkshire Sausage Shop and the deli, The Hairy Fig. But you’ll have fun finding your own favourites, especially if you are a lover of all things vintage as this has a strong presence in the city. Food is also taken very seriously in York. There are some wonderfully atmospheric old pubs such as the Golden Fleece which just oozes history and boast a selection of ghosts, apparently. But I really liked the quirky coffee shops with great healthy fruit smoothies, decadent cakes, fab sarnies – and ‘proper’ coffee, of course. Bettys Tearooms are something of an institution in Yorkshire. They were founded in Harrogate in 1919 and there are now six in the county, with two in York – and both attract big queues! The one in St Helen’s Square is just the place for a traditional afternoon tea, with silver cake stands and lashings of strong Yorkshire tea, of course! The Art Deco building is glorious and the staff are smart in aprons and crisp white shirts. Add in a race course, a discount and only slightly out-of-town shopping centre and all that glorious countryside, and York is a perfect short break destination. Castle Howard, which many of us will know as Brideshead from Brideshead Revisited on the telly all those years ago, is just a stone’s throw away, too, and, with its stunning estate, this Baroque treasure is simply a must. There was still plenty we didn’t manage to do. I fancied one of the evening ghost walks plus a river trip – I love the different views you get from the water and The River Ouse is a big part of city life. And the city has a couple of great theatres, the Grand and the Theatre Royal, so there’s always something worth seeing, too. Subscribe online at www.placesandfaces.co.uk

FAC T F I L E We drove to York from Norwich and it took about four hours! We stayed in a lovely barn conversion on a working farm about eight miles east of York, near Stamford Bridge. High Catton Grange offers B&B as well as three very well equipped cottages. Visit www.highcattongrange.co.uk. Check out www.visityork.org for full details about accommodation and attractions and also investigate The York Pass, which offers good value entry to a selection of attractions.

| JANUARY 2015

TA L K I N G HEADS As the spring term gets underway, Emma Outten asks three headmasters and two principals what their New Year resolutions are

DAPHNE KING PRINCIPAL OF EAST NORFOLK SIXTH FORM COLLEGE What are your resolutions for 2015? For the college I would want to continue to provide a happy and inspirational environment where our students can develop and grow and to support our dedicated staff, who provide their expertise on a daily basis. My personal resolution is to find time to practise the piano at home and get more exercise walking along our lovely Gorleston beach. What, would you hope, are the students’ New Year resolutions? I always encourage students to take time to organise and plan their work. Hard work pays off when it is combined with good planning and this sets great habits for the rest of your lives. And remember it’s your mind set which determines how successful you will ultimately be, so work hard, be passionate and hopefully you’ll beat the class of 2014 with the best results ever (no pressure!) Do you have a message for parents at the start of term? Yes, I’d like to thank the parents for the amazing support they give to EN students. They have to have bags of patience with teenagers when mood swings erupt and help provide a calm environment to support their studies at home so keep encouraging and one day they will look back and thank you! Are there any new developments for 2015 at the College you would like to share with readers? Another building project is underway and we’re looking forward to the completion of a purpose built set of Art Studios for next September which is all part of our £7million transformation of the campus. We are always being told that we are Gorleston’s best kept secret as we are not visible from the A12. Readers are always welcome to come and see for themselves and our next open evening is on March 15.

STEFFAN GRIFFITHS HEADMASTER OF NORWICH SCHOOL What are your resolutions for 2015? To remind my staff more frequently of the wonderful job they are doing in leading and inspiring the young people in our care. What, would you hope, are the students’ New Year resolutions? To continue to make the most of the rounded education available at Norwich School: within our loving, compassionate community we want them to seek academic depth, cocurricular breadth and preparation for a lifetime of leadership and service. Do you have a message for parents at the start of term? Be the third point of the triangle, along with the school and your child. You have a crucial role to play in your child’s development and we expect you to be involved. Are there any new developments for 2015 at the School you would like to share with readers? We are thrilled that our new Young Norfolk Sports Academy is providing a hub for the county’s most promising athletes, both in the school and the wider community. We are also looking forward to the third Young Norfolk Arts Festival, which will include for the first time an exciting collaboration with the Royal Norfolk Show.

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EDUCATION

JASON MORROW HEADMASTER OF NORWICH HIGH SCHOOL FOR GIRLS What are your resolutions for 2015? Sorry to be predictable, but taking more exercise is probably top of the list for this year, partly for myself but also to practise what we preach as a school and recognise the much wider benefits to one’s energy and concentration that exercise brings. What, would you hope, are the students’ New Year resolutions? I hope and would encourage them to continue to make the most of opportunities and to allow themselves a second or even third chance if things don’t go exactly as they wish initially. I think we are becoming less good at that as a society and I’m always especially proud of pupils or individuals who overcome a setback to achieve what they set out to achieve. Do you have a message for parents at the start of term? My main message would be to thank them for all their support and assistance in helping their daughters to achieve their goals and probably to reiterate that education is very much a joint venture, involving school, home and, of course, the girls. Are there any new developments for 2015 at the School you would like to share with readers? The arrival of a new Head in September and working closely with Mrs von Malaisé over the coming months to ensure a smooth handover is an exciting period for the school. It obviously involves mixed emotions for me personally as being Head of the High School has been the most rewarding and inspiring part of my career and it is simply an amazing community in which to work. Again, however, it’s a practise what we preach moment as we encourage and want the girls to follow their dreams, and mine has long been to work in the US and I still can’t quite believe that is going to happen, and in New York City to make it an even more exciting prospect. We have also spent a long time working to secure a new Astro Turf surface for the school and I’m delighted we will be doing that ready for the new season in September 2015 in partnership with the Norwich Hockey Consortium.

MIKE CROSSLEY – HEADMASTER OF TAVERHAM HALL PREPARATORY SCHOOL What are your resolutions for 2015? From a professional perspective, I would like to continue to build on the momentum following the recent Outstanding Inspection reports and celebrate the school’s new, exciting Early Years curriculum. On a personal note, I would like to spend more time firstly with my family, secondly fishing on the river bank and finally walking my dog in the beautiful parkland that surrounds the school. What, would you hope, are the students’ New Year resolutions? My hope is that they take advantage of all the wonderful opportunities both curricular and extra-curricular which the school offers them. Do you have a message for parents at the start of term? I would like to thank them for their support and encouragement which is greatly appreciated by all the staff in the school. Are there any new developments for 2015 at the School you would like to share with readers? Our Development Committee has launched a fundraising initiative to provide a new musical recording suite and funds have recently been awarded to the school to enable it to purchase a laser cutter for its DT Department. Other exciting development plans are afoot but more details in due course!

JO PRETTY – PRINCIPAL OF LOWESTOFT COLLEGE What are your resolutions for 2015? To be the college of choice; delivering excellence. What, would you hope, are the students’ New Year resolutions? To aspire and fulfil their full potential Do you have a message for parents at the start of the spring term? It is never too late to retrain or develop a new set of skills with like-minded colleagues or new friends. Are there any new developments for 2015 at the College you would like to share with readers? 2015 is the College’s 140th year. We have a new campus, new courses, inspirational teaching and an employer-focused ethos.

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| JANUARY 2015

BOOSTING THE ECONOMY MARK NIC HOL L S M E E TS CH RI S STARKIE, H E AD OF T HE NE W ANGLIA LOCAL ENT E RP RI S E PART NE R SH IP FOR NORFOL K AND S U FFOL K , TO DISCUSS A BLUE P RI NT FOR B USINESS GROW T H I N T HE REGIO N

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HRIS STARKIE KNOWS MORE THAN MOST ABOUT THE BUSINESS LANDSCAPE ACROSS NORFOLK AND SUFFOLK.

‘At the same time we need to significantly overhaul our infrastructure; our road network – A47, A12 and A14 – and our rail network, particularly the Great Eastern mainline and As one of the area’s most influential ensure our airports have capacity to grow and enable people business journalists, he spent several years to get to different parts of the world.’ writing about industry and commerce Mr Starkie has been with the LEP since it formed in before switching to a role which now helps April 2011 and managing director since 2012. His team is generate opportunities and economic growth for the east. responsible for the day to day running of the organisation As managing director of the New Anglia Local Enterprise including supporting the New Anglia board, delivering its Partnership for Norfolk and Suffolk (LEP), he brings together strategy, liaising with Government, identifying activities to the private and public sector in partnership with education support jobs growth, securing funding, engaging with the and has his sights firmly set on improving the economies of business community, liaising with the media and providing the two counties. the LEP with a ‘voice’ at Westminster. ‘It is about improving employment opportunities, the During the summer, the LEP secured a Growth Deal from productivity of business and about creating new jobs and the the government for Norfolk and Suffolk worth £173m over the environment for that to happen,’ he explains from his office four years to deliver major infrastructure projects. overlooking the expansive grounds of Ketteringham Hall There will be investment in three colleges (West Anglia south of Norwich. at King’s Lynn, Lowestoft College and Easton College); two ‘It is about making sure we have the right people and the right road schemes (at Bury St Edmunds and Beccles); £10m for infrastructure – whether road or rail - to deliver that and ensuring superfast broadband; £12m for a grant scheme; and £10m for a that people have the right skills for businesses in the region.’ loan scheme for businesses. The LEP is both co-ordinator and catalyst for this as it In addition to the drive to advance superfast broadband for provides support to help both counties, a high profile businesses expand into new initiative is the Great Eastern markets or new premises and Rail Campaign. The Norwich to London line take on new staff. ‘The Norwich to London It achieves that through a line has been historically and has been historically and partnership involving local chronically under-invested. chronically under-invested. authorities, colleges and We have old rolling stock universities and business and signalling and the track We have old rolling stock leaders. dates back to the 1960s. The ‘What we do is enable last major investment was and signalling and the track things to happen that may the electrification of the dates back to the 1960s. not have happened at all or 1980s. Almost every other may have happened but more mainline has had substantial slowly,’ he adds. investment and we are the The LEP also articulates the case for investment in the two second least subsidised rail route in the country.’ counties from central government, Europe or further afield. Underpinning the campaign to improve the route are But there are challenges. figures which indicate that an investment of £476m would ‘We have some outstanding businesses in our area but there give an economic return of £4.5bn. are challenges around the physical infrastructure and the fact Mr Starkie believes improving infrastructure, offering that we are geographically harder to get to than other parts of better skills for businesses and creating better quality jobs will the country,’ says Mr Starkie, aged 43. lead to a wider range of opportunities and see the economies ‘There are also issues surrounding telecommunications and of Norfolk and Suffolk grow. broadband speed. We also recognise that the education sector ‘The aim is for Norfolk and Suffolk to be recognised as a needs to offer the right level of skills for businesses. valuable location for business to be based,’ he says. ‘And 2015 ‘A third element is a challenge for business themselves: is a really important year for us because the Growth Deal some are not as ambitious as they can be, it is a kind of East funding will start to come through.’ Anglian reticence where sometimes companies are too A former chief executive of Shaping Norfolk’s Future (2008modest about what they do compared to ‘brasher’ parts of the 11), the economic development partnership responsible for country.’ leading the campaign to dual the A11 and improvements to the The LEP Strategic Economic Plan, published in 2014, sets rail network, he was also business editor of the Eastern Daily out these challenges and opportunities as a blueprint to help Press. realise the potential of Norfolk and Suffolk. Married with a teenage daughter and living near Norwich, ‘While we have challenges we also have fabulous he is a Canaries fan and interested in politics. advantages and by maximising those and building on our However, alongside targeting better road, rail and strengths, we can overcome the challenges we have,’ says Mr broadband connections for the region, Mr Starkie has his Starkie. sights set on something a little different during his spare time ‘The secret to our economy growing lies in creating jobs, in the coming months. improving productivity and building on the strength of sectors ‘Not so long ago a relative gave me a pair of binoculars,’ he where we already have national, and international, leadership. adds, ‘so I’m going to make good use of them in Norfolk and Suffolk…and take up bird watching.’

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S329 Almary Green Faces and Places Monthly Ad ARTWORK.pdf

06/11/2013

12:38

Caring For

Your Finances • Choose the right investments • Plan ahead for retirement • Provide disaster protection for your family • Secure your inheritance for your loved ones • Save tax on savings and gifts • Fund care fees, if and when needed

Almary Green Investments Ltd, Greenfields House,10 Meridian Way, Meridian Business Park, Norwich NR7 0TA Tel: 01603 706740 Email: enquiries@almarygreen.com

www.carefeeplanningnorfolk.co.uk www.carefeeplanningsuffolk.co.uk

www.almarygreen.com

WEALTH MANAGEMENT

NISAS

Saving SCHEMES

THIS MONTH CARL LAMB L O O K S AT N E W INDIVIDUAL S AV I N G S AC C O U N T S

CARL LAMB ALMARY GREEN INDEPENDENT FINANCIAL ADVISERS WWW.ALMARYGREEN.COM 01603 706740

HE CHANGES TO the ISA framework this year have opened up new flexibility for those wanting to take advantage of this tax-efficient savings route. Savers who want to benefit from the changes in the current tax year need to ensure that their investments are placed in advance of the April deadline. Your ISA allowance can’t be carried forward from year to year so if it’s not used, it is lost. New Individual Savings Accounts – known as NISAs – were announced in the Chancellor’s Spring 2014 Budget and the maximum that you can save in a NISA in the 2014/15 tax year was raised to £15,000 in July. Importantly, there is no longer a limit on how much of your annual NISA allowance you can hold in a Cash NISA. You can now invest up to the allowance in either type of NISA, or have money invested in both, as long as the total doesn’t exceed £15,000. Savers can only have one Cash NISA and one Stocks and Shares NISA in any tax year. If you have new money to invest, your existing NISA account can normally be topped up – providing you haven’t reached the £15,000 limit – but you cannot open a second NISA account of the same type in the same year. In addition, once you’ve reached the £15,000 limit, if you take money out of your NISA during the year, you can’t simply top it back up to the limit again as it’s the total amount paid in over the year that counts towards the allowance, not the balance of the account at any given point in time. Money can be transferred from an existing ISA/NISA to a new one with better

terms, but it is important to remember that you must do it as a proper transfer using an ISA transfer form. If you take your money out of one NISA/ISA as a withdrawal then pay it into a fresh NISA, it will be treated as a new investment and will count towards your annual allowance. Cash NISAs are a specialised savings account at a financial institution such as a bank or a building society. They will offer a specified rate of interest which is added to the account and is tax-free. Some Cash NISAs offer a higher rate of return if you are prepared to keep your money invested for a minimum period such as two or three years. However, check what penalties might be levied if you need to withdraw your money earlier than expected or opt to transfer it to another NISA provider. Stocks and Shares NISAs are more complex but, in good market conditions, have the potential to provide a better return. However, they do, of course, involve risk and you should make sure that you understand the risks involved before investing in them. A Stocks and Shares NISA can be tailored to suit your attitude to risk, but I would always recommend that you get advice before embarking on this route. There may be some administration and management fees involved too, so it is important to understand these. Any profits made through the selling of stocks and shares in your NISA are tax free, but there is a 10 per cent tax imposed on any dividend income from the investments. Whilst this is the same for dividend income outside an ISA for basic rate taxpayers, it can be particularly attractive to anyone who is in a higher tax band.

For independent advice, contact Almary Green on 01603 706740 or email carl.lamb@almarygreen.com. Please remember that the advice here is generic and we recommend that you get individual personalised advice.

The value of an investment and the income from it could go down as well as up. The return at the end of the investment period is not guaranteed and you may get back less than you originally invested. The tax treatment of investments depends on individual circumstances and is subject to change.

Advice tailored for you and your family The Family Team at Leathes Prior will work with you to resolve your situation amicably and sensitively. Our experts will help you to decide which process suits your needs best and provide specialist advice in a dignified and professional manner.

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LEGAL

HUMAN RIGHTS

The Rights

of the

Individual AS T H E M AG N A C A R TA C E L E B R AT E S ITS 800TH A N N I V E R S A R Y, JULIAN GIBBONS P O I N T S O U T T H AT THE QUESTION OF HUMAN RIGHTS IS STILL OF THE UTMOST I M P O R TA N C E TO DAY

JULIAN GIBBONS NORTON PESKETT SOLICITORS WWW.NORTONPESKETT.CO.UK 01493 849200

HIS ARTICLE IS RATHER LIKE one of those Christmas TV shows which has been recorded weeks in advance. By the time you read this I can, with confidence, say that this year will witness an historic anniversary, despite it being written in the closing days of a wet and dismal November. June 15 2015 is the 800th anniversary of the signing of the Magna Carta at Runnymede. The significance of this event has been discussed at length down the centuries and many have argued and continue to argue that it is the founding document of English liberties. Certainly, it has influenced many, not least the drafters of the American constitution, who regarded it as a fundamental law. Like many things, perception is all important and the real facts sometimes get in the way. King John was probably England’s most unsuccessful monarch. Originally not destined for kingship, he was propelled to the front by the deaths of three of his brothers before that of their father, Henry II, and then the death of his living brother Richard I, dead after 10 years on the throne due to a gangrenous wound caused by a French crossbow bolt. During the time that Richard was off crusading, for all but six months of his 10 year reign, John himself took the opportunity to rebel, only to be later forgiven by his brother. It was therefore ironic that during his reign he endured a series of rebellions from the barons, prompted in part by high taxes and part by John’s achievement in managing to lose almost all the English Crown’s French lands (hence his nickname John Lackland) including both Normandy and the original seat of the Plantagenets, namely the Angevin lands which covered all of western France. By the time John reached Runnymede in June 1215 he was playing for time, waiting for support from the Pope but with several cities, including London, occupied by rebels. His signature to the first charter (not yet called Magna Carta) was quite cynical. True, it set out rules of due process, not taxing without the consent of the barons and upheld the rights of free men (which did not include the serfs). However, no one seriously believed that it would be stuck to. Within a few weeks John had repudiated the charter, the

Pope had annulled it and there were fresh hostilities. In little over a year John was dead of dysentery and those loyal to the new nineyear-old king Henry III fought hard to keep him on the throne and bring the barons back onto the king’s side. It was therefore reissued as an amended and less controversial document in 1216, 1217 (when it acquired the name of Magna Carta), 1225 and 1297. It is this last version, published by Edward I, which is perhaps the most important and the one which still has three clauses in force to this day, including one which affirms a right to due process, which is worth quoting in full: ‘No Freeman shall be taken or imprisoned, or be disseised of his Freehold, or Liberties, or free Customs, or be outlawed, or exiled, or any other wise destroyed; nor will we not pass upon him, nor condemn him, but by lawful judgment of his Peers, or by the Law of the land. We will sell to no man, we will not deny or defer to any man either Justice or Right.’ In the 13th century the Great Charter evolved into a pact between king and barons, a promise that the king would not exceed the powers set out in the charter. It marked the start of the idea that even kings were subject to the law and that the law imposed restrictions on their freedom of action. This did not stop the excesses of the Tudors three centuries later, but by the time of the Stuarts, the Magna Carta became a focus of opposition to absolute royal power and played its part in Charles I losing his head. A few decades later, it reinforced the supremacy of parliament when it voted to remove the catholic James II from the throne and offer the crown to the protestant Dutch prince William of Orange and his wife Mary. Today, these principles are taken for granted and the last 150 years in particular has seen the monarchy evolve from something which wielded real power into an institution which is more symbolic and apolitical than anything. That does not prevent politicians today arguing over the appropriate form of basic laws, hence the present debate over whether the European Convention on Human Rights should give way to a home grown and British Bill of Rights. These sorts of debate have their origins on a water-meadow in Runnymede 800 years ago.

However, no one seriously believed that it would be stuck to. Within a few weeks John had repudiated the charter

Working for our community all year round

Brandon Lewis M E M B E R of PA R L I A M E N T for G R E AT YA R M O U T H

Get in touch – I’d love to hear from you

www.brandonlewis.co office@brandonlewis.co 01493 652928 Brandon Lewis MP @BrandonLewis

KEEPING IT IN THE FAMILY IT’S NOT JUST ABOUT THE NUMBERS

An innovative and forward thinking firm of chartered accountants, which has been helping families preserve and grow their wealth for over 150 years. For a free consultation contact: Kevin Bunting | 01493 335100 | k.bunting@lovewell-blake.co.uk

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WEALTH MANAGEMENT

COMMERCIAL PROPERTY

Plan

Ahead THIS MONTH KEVIN BUNTING O F F E R S T I M E LY A DV I C E F O R A L L COMMERCIAL PROPERTY OW N E R S

KEVIN BUNTING LOVEWELL BLAKE CHARTERED ACCOUNTANTS WWW.LOVEWELL-BLAKE.CO.UK 01493 335100

N APRIL 1 2012 (for Corporation Tax) and April 6 2012 (for Income Tax), significant changes were introduced with respect to claiming capital allowances associated with the acquisition of commercial property. There was a transitional period which means the rules came into effect from April 1 2014 Corporation Tax (April 6 2014 Income Tax). The Capital Allowances Act 2001 (CAA 2001) entitles a purchaser of commercial property to claim tax relief in the form of capital allowances on fixtures embedded within a building. Under the old rules a purchaser could undertake a just and reasonable apportionment of the purchase price to determine an amount against which capital allowances could be claimed. This was subject to undertaking reasonable due diligence to ensure that previous owners had not made a claim on the same asset. If they had, the claim was limited to the seller’s disposal value. Given the difficulty in establishing the capital allowances history of a building, it was perceived the rules could be open to abuse because multiple claims for capital allowances could be made on the same fixtures.

The New Rules

With effect from April 1 2014 the just and reasonable apportionment has been abolished with a purchaser only able to claim capital allowances on a commercial property if the past owner has ‘pooled’ the expenditure (i.e. by adding qualifying expenditure to a capital allowances pool for tax purposes). If the seller does not pool the expenditure future purchasers are likely to be precluded from claiming capital allowances. When the value has been agreed it will be supported by an election which is signed by both the seller and the buyer.

This election must be made within two years of completion of the sale. This is often referred to as the ‘fixed value requirement’. Where the seller has claimed capital allowances, but the disposal value cannot be agreed, either the seller or the buyer can make an application to the tax tribunal to settle the issue. It is also important for non-tax payers (say a pension fund or a charity) to agree the capital allowances position because they could sell the property to a taxpayer in future. Not having the capital allowance position established could put them in an uncompetitive position compared to a seller who has got the pool established.

Plan now

There are still opportunities to make a just and reasonable apportionment for those commercial properties which were purchased prior to April 1 2012. These claims can offer a one off tax credit which could generate a refund or reduce taxable profit. The period April 1 2012 to April 1 2014 is transitional and as such where a previous owner has not claimed capital allowances a just and reasonable apportionment based on the purchase price is still available. Again it is worth taking advice to see what claim is possible. In all other cases extreme care should be taken during the negotiation process to ensure that the future availability of capital allowances has been agreed. If it has not, then the capital allowances on the building could be lost forever. This could affect the future commercial value of the building.

Disclaimer: Please note that this article is provided for your information only. While every effort has been made to ensure its accuracy, information contained herein may not be comprehensive and you should not act upon it without seeking professional advice.

| JANUARY 2015

VA U X H A L L H A S T H O R O U G H LY R E V I S E D I T S POPULAR CORSA SUPERMINI, COMPLETE WITH CLEANER, GREENER ENGINES AND A LO O K I N F L U E N C E D BY T H E FA S H I O N A B L E A DA M . I A I N D O O L E Y R E P O R T S

HAT’S NEW? The revisions to the Corsa

are extensive, and while Vauxhall’s engineers have retained the previous car’s basic platform, much work has been done on the way the car drives as well as how it looks. Visually the Corsa’s been influenced by the funky Adam, while there’s been an increased focus on boosting the green credential of the car’s engine range. And to improve the ‘big car’ feel, there’s now a wealth of added value safety kit and creature comforts available.

LOOKS AND IMAGE

It’s hardly a surprise that the new Corsa looks a little bit like the Adam. From the front at least, Vauxhall’s mainstream supermini now boasts a little more character and is easier to spot in the supermarket car park.

And being Vauxhall’s volume-selling car, it’s got to perform for a wide variety of customers, be they private buyers or company car users. As such, the major selling point is low running costs, thanks in part to new and revised engines plus a greener approach to motoring. SPACE AND PRACTICALITY

In supermini terms, the Corsa offers a good level of cabin space and practicality. It’s available in three and five-door form, and there’s ample boot space for a car of this size. And for a car that has to work for a wide variety of users, cabin oddment storage space is more than enough for mobile phones, drinks, maps and the like. BEHIND THE WHEEL

Previously the Corsa was rarely top of keen drivers’ shopping lists, but Vauxhall’s engineers have done a good job of closing

MOTORING

CORSA

FACTS AT A GLANCE Vauxhall Corsa 1.0i Excite 5dr £14,695. The range price is £9595 to £16,235 Engine: 1.0-litre petrol unit producing 115bhp and 122lb/ft of torque Transmission: Six-speed manual driving the front wheels Performance: Top speed 121mph, 0-62mph in 10.3 seconds Economy: 57.6mpg combined Emissions: 115g/km of CO2

the gap to the likes of Ford’s Fiesta. A thorough overhaul of suspension and steering elements has resulted in a more engaging experience, while refinement and the ability to cope with poorly surfaced roads have also been greatly improved. Vauxhall has also spent a lot of time improving the Corsa’s engine range, with the result being a greater focus on economy and ease of driving. Some existing units have been improved, such as the firm’s 1.3-litre diesel units - now offering sub-1OOg/ km C02 figures, while an all-new 1.O-litre, three-cylinder petrol motor has been introduced in two states of tune: 9O and 115 horsepower. The latter is pleasantly smooth and quiet, yet punches well above its weight performance-wise.

WHO WOULD BUY ONE?

The Corsa has always appealed to a wide audience, and it’s likely to be the same with this new model. Private buyers form a significant proportion of the market and there’s no shortage of choice when it comes to engine and trim combinations. 0ffering both three and five-door body styles does much to further boost its chances in a crowded market. Vauxhall hasn’t forgotten business, users either. Low C02 rated engines and fleet-specific trim levels should make the business of buying company cars an easy one. THIS CAR SUMMED UP IN A SINGLE WORD:

Dependable. VALUE FOR MONEY

Vauxhall’s not been shy in adding a considerable amount of kit, with the highlights being a heated windscreen, the choice of heated seats and steering wheel, plus advanced safety kit and a high-end infotainment system previously only found on more expensive cars higher up the Vauxhall food chain. Factor in the greener and more economical engines plus the ability to save money at the pumps and reduce the amount you give to the taxman each year, and the Corsa’s value for money status is pleasingly more attractive than before.

IF THIS CAR WAS AN ITEM OF CLOTHING:

It would be a comfortable pair of shoes.

DEALER DETAILS THURLOW NUNN HOLT 33 - 35 Cromer Road, Holt, Norfolk NR25 6EU Tel 01263 713254 www.thurlownunn.co.uk

All prices correct at time of going to press.

THURLOW NUNN FAKENHAM Enterprise Way, Fakenham, Norfolk NR21 8SN Tel 01328 850000

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REMARKABLE TECHNOLOGIES. STUNNING CARS.

FORD TECH LIVE

HERE: 16-18 JANUARY 2015

A leap forward in reverse parking.

NEW FORD FOCUS Active Park Assist

The new Ford Focus can find even the most elusive spot, then assist Pertwee & Back Limited you to park in it, whether it’s parallel or even reverse parking.

Gapton Hall Road, Great Yarmouth, Norfolk, NR31 0NJ Come and try it out for yourself at Pertwee & Back - Great Yarmouth

www.pertwee-and-back.co.uk

01493 664151

Official fuel consumption figures in mpg (l/100km) for the Ford Focus range: urban 32.1-65.7 (8.8-4.3), extra urban 49.6-83.1 (5.7-3.4), combined 41.5-74.3 (6.8-3.8). Official C02 emissions 159-98g/km. The mpg figures quoted are sourced from official EU-regulated test results (EU Directive and Regulation 692/2008), are provided for comparability purposes and may not reflect your actual driving experience. Active Park Assist is standard on Titanium X and available as an optional extra on Zetec, Zetec S and Titanium.

| £69 | Meet Peugeot’s stylish new supermini that’s loaded with features. The New Peugeot 108 offers you a 7” colour touchscreen, Bluetooth®, DAB digital radio, manual air conditioning and much more – all available from only £69 per month on Passport Personal Lease#. Just contact us to ﬁnd out more.

M R KING & SONS Horn Hill, LOWESTOFT, NR33 0PX 01502 573955 www.mrking.co.uk Official Fuel Consumption in MPG (l/100km) and CO2 emissions (g/km) for the 108 range are: Urban 52.3 - 62.8 (5.4 - 4.5), Extra Urban 74.3 - 83.1 (3.8 - 3.4), Combined 65.7 - 74.3 (4.3 - 4.1) and CO2 99 - 88 (g/km).

MPG figures are achieved under official EU test conditions, intended as a guide for comparative purposes only, and may not reflect actual on-the-road driving conditions. Terms and conditions apply, participating dealers only or visit www.peugeot.co.uk To finance your (lease/ purchase) we may introduce you to a limited number of lenders. #Passport Personal Lease: A guarantee may be required. Over 18’s only. Written quotations available on request from Peugeot Financial Services, Quadrant House, Princess Way, Redhill RH1 1QA. 108 Active 3dr 1.0 68 in Diamond White, customer initial payment £3500, optional final payment £4435. 35 monthly payments payable. 6,000 miles per annum. Excess mileage charges may apply. If you choose to pay the optional final payment, you can pay an annual payment equivalent to one of your monthly payments but will not own the car. Ownership is possible with Passport – ask us for details. Offer available on cars ordered by 31/12/14. Calls may be recorded for training purposes. Information correct at time of going to press.

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Tel: 01493 800 839 www.thurlownunn.co.uk

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Thurlow Nunn League EASTERN COUNTIES FOOTBALL LEAGUE

^Free Fuel offer not available on Zafira, Corsa Excite and New Corsa models, other terms, conditions and exclusions apply. £500 inc VAT Free Fuel will be paid via pre-paid debit card. Purchase only, cannot be used to withdraw cash. Refer to www.vauxhall.co.uk/weekend or contact your local Retailer for details. Participating Retailers only. Offer applies to private individuals, Vauxhall Partners and small businesses 1-24. All other customers are excluded. Offer available on orders between 27 December 2014 and 12 January 2015, which are then registered by 31 January 2015.

CAR OF THE MONTH GREAT YARMOUTH COACHWORKS CAR SALES

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Here at Great Yarmouth Coachworks we offer everything for the motorist in the Norfolk and North Suffolk area of East Anglia. Sales of quality vehicles Servicing and repairs

MOT testing Towbar fitting

www.gyccarsales.co.uk | 01493 843835

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KIRKLEY RUN TYRES & WHEELS Huge Discounts on all major brands * *

All tyre prices include:

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www.kirkleytyresandwheels.co.uk KIRKLEY RUN SERVICE STATION LOWESTOFT 01502 565529

SOUTHTOWN RD SERVICE STATION GT YARMOUTH 01493 600432

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Rainbow Resprays

EST. 1990

Estcourt Road, Gt Yarmouth, NR30 4JH 07899 778683 · 01493 852176

THE ALL-NEW SX4

S-CROSS FROM ONLY

£15,499*ON THE ROAD

You name it, the SX4 S-Cross has it. A spacious cabin and bag-gobbling boot. The reassuring safety of ALLGRIP 4-wheel Drive¹. Even class-leading fuel economy. Once you see it, you’ll have to have it all.

Request a Test Drive today: suzuki.co.uk/mrking

M R King & Sons

Horn Hill Lowestoft Suﬀolk NR33 0PX 01502 525425

Official Fuel Consumption Figures for the Suzuki SX4 S-Cross range mpg (litres/100km) and CO 2 emissions (g/km): Urban 39.7-55.3 (7.1-5.1), Extra Urban 55.3-76.3 (5.1-3.7), Combined 47.8-67.2 (5.9-4.2), CO 2 emissions 135-110 g/km. The above fuel consumption figures are based on an EU test for comparative purposes only and may not reflect real driving results. *Model shown: SX4 S-Cross 1.6 SZ5 available from £19,749. SX4 S-Cross range - SX4 S-Cross 1.6 SZ3 Manual available at £14,999 to SX4 S-Cross 1.6 DDiS SZ5 ALLGRIP Manual available at £23,549. The features referred to in this advertisement and all specifications and equipment may vary depending on engine, transmission and model grade. All prices and specifications correct at time of going to print. On the road price valid from 1st September 2013 to 31st December 2013. Model shown - SX4 S-Cross 1.6 SZ5 Manual (metallic paint £430). ¹ALL GRIP 4-wheel Drive only available on 1.6 petrol SZ5 and DDiS SZ-T & SZ5 models.

www.citroen.co.uk

NEW CITROËN C4 CACTUS

£125 - £249

PER MONTH ON PERSONAL LEASE°

DUFF MORGAN 01603 775477 WHIFFLER ROAD, NORWICH, NORFOLK, NR3 2AZ www.duffmorgan.citroen.co.uk

DUFF MORGAN KING’S LYNN 01553 770144 49 BERGEN WAY, KING’S LYNN, NORFOLK, PE30 2JG www.duffmorgankingslynn.citroen.co.uk

°Prices & offers apply to retail sales of qualifying Citroën models ordered & delivered 01/07-30/09/14 & include VAT, delivery to dealer & number plates, Government Registration Fee & 12 months’ graduated vehicle excise duty. Black/metallic/pearlescent paint optional at extra cost. Elect 4 Personal Lease rentals shown apply to New Citroën C4 Cactus PureTech 75 manual Touch - New Citroën C4 Cactus e-HDi 92 ETG6 Flair respectively. Model(s) shown New Citroën C4 Cactus PureTech 82 manual Flair from £205 per month. One significant advance rental will be required, which varies by model, followed by 46 monthly rentals at the rates shown & a significant optional final rental. Excess mileage charges may apply if the agreed annual mileage is exceeded. Payment of the optional final rental extends the rental term (this does not transfer title of the vehicle) & requires an annual rental equivalent to one months’ rental. Finance subject to status. Written quotations available on request from Citroën Financial Services, Quadrant House, Princess Way, Redhill, Surrey, RH1 1QA, UK. Over 18s only. A guarantee may be required. Offers & specification correct at time of going to press from participating Dealers. Terms & conditions apply. Please ask us for details. Subject to stock availability.

Official Government fuel consumption figures (Range): Urban cycle, Extra urban, Combined (litres per 100km/mpg) & CO2 emissions (g/km); Highest: New Citroën C4 Cactus PureTech 110 S&S manual Feel 5.8/48.7, 4/70.6, 4.7/60.1, 107. Lowest: New Citroën C4 Cactus BlueHDi 100 manual Touch 3.5/80.7, 2.9/97.4, 3.1/91.1, 82. MPG figures are achieved under official EU test conditions, intended as a guide for comparative purposes only, and may not reflect actual on-the-road driving conditions.

CALL US NOW ON 01502 713885 TO ARRANGE A TEST DRIVE M{ZD{6

M{ZD{3

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2.2D150 SE-L NAV FASTBACK MANUAL

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1.3 SPORT VENTURE MANUAL, 5DR

1.3 COLOUR EDITION MANUAL

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est. 1887

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The East Anglian Game & Country Fair’s Charity Ball The annual ball took place at Wensum Valley Hotel, in Norwich, amassing more than £4000 for the Movember Foundation which raises awareness of men’s health issues. 150 guests enjoyed a champagne reception with live jazz, a three course sit down meal followed by speeches from Jon Sim from Movember and Andy Grand from the Game Fair, before dancing the night away to live music from the Scratch the Cat band.

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Peter and Carol Thomas

Sally Harding and Andy Franks

Dipple & Conway Opticians Norfolk Cricket Alliance Awards Dinner Wensum Valley Hotel & Country Club Norfolk’s cricketers relived the highlights of a wonderful summer as they received Dipple & Conway Opticians Norfolk Cricket Alliance awards from guests of honour Damian Conway and Neil McDonald, representing the league’s new sponsors. Award winners, clubs, volunteers and the league management were thanked by Alliance chairman Peter Thomas and Damian Conway, one of three brothers who own Dipple & Conway’s longestablished Norfolk business. Around 200 people dined on lamb shank followed by blueberry and blackberry ice cream-filled tuille basket. Photos and Words by NEWSMAKERS

Andy Kerling, Mark Fowler, Ray Smeed, Neil Lockwood and Ryan Conroy

Tom Betts, Jake Fossey and Matt Ambrose

Damian Conway and Neil McDonald

Andy Freake, Peter Barnes, Gavin Barnes and Rob Fuller

John Tythcott and Mick Piggott

Lewis Greyson, Keith Greyson, Alex Dennis and Liam Conroy

James Page, Ryan Symonds, Mickey Seago and Matthew Hale

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HIGH SOCIETY

Sophie Jewson, Lucy Taylor, and Sophie Von Maltzahn

Ryan McGlynn, Jessica Clarke, Nia Wyn-Jones, Sophie Jewson and Patrick Bailey

Laura Rous and Marcus Posner

Bruisyard Hall Annual Ball The third annual Bruisyard Hall winter ball was attended by 110 guests who enjoyed a Champagne reception with canapĂŠs before sitting down to a three-course dinner. A vintage photo booth proved highly popular while dancing to the Swinging Little Big Band rounded off the highly enjoyable evening. The black tie affair raised ÂŁ4915 for the Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Families Association.

Annabelle Thomas and Oliver Levy

John and Caroline Clingan

Michael and Nicole Stout

Sara and Charle Michell and Jillian and Tony Chibnall

Leigh Evans, Sophie Simmons, Sarah and Hektor Rous

Judy and Geoff Barfoot and Eunice and Wallice Binder

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Lorraine Tillett, Heather Dionysiou, Sylvia Savva and Stella Dionysiou

Matt Brown, Lucy Copeman and Alex Pulling

Emma McCann, Lorna Botwright, Laura Blakemore, Danni Burton and Elizabeth Rumsby

Gemma Murley, Chelsea Dyke and Emily Lown

The East Anglian Air Ambulance Crystal Ball, Sprowston Manor Hotel, Norwich

Mark Harvey and Tanith Wilson

The East Anglian Air Ambulance celebrated its 15th anniversary with a Crystal Ball at Sprowston Manor Hotel in Norwich. Guests enjoyed a drinks reception, followed by dinner and then dancing to The Yow Yows. The event was sponsored by Norwich-based Tilletts Fine Jewellers, who generously provided the sparkly prizes for the crystal raffle. The winning crystal prize was a 1/2 carat diamond valued in excess of £2500. Photos by SNAPPERS

OF STALHAM

Ruth Slack, Francesca Starling and Cherie Vatvik

Debbie and Michael Chowns and Sue Thorning

Victor and Yvonne Ling

Kevin and Paula Hodds

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HIGH SOCIETY

Elizabeth Morgan and Anna Wade

Madeline and Richard Whitworth

Charlotte Locke, Victoria Short, Laura Davies, Dominic Applegate and Selina Keenes

Gemma and Danny McKail

Anita and Dick Turpin

Lorna Botwright, Karl Rumsby and Elizabeth Rumsby

Terri Faye and Jill Sowerby-Wray

Anne Watson and Susan Smith

Sarah Milne and Steven Willcocks

Billy Moore, Stella Dionysiou and Maxine Moore

Sue and Ray Hutchings

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Imogen Martin, Zoe Allen, Charley Burton-Spicer, Jan Baines-Burton and John Burton

Barbara and Richard Carr

Lucy Wayman, Max Robinson, James Squires and James Nacoth

Marilyn Hill, Andrew and Susan Tassle and Mary Kate Ingram

The Designer Pet Boutique Christmas Party, Loddon BB Pets – The Designer Pet Boutique based in Loddon held its Christmas party in aid of Meadow Green Rescue in nearby Hales Green. Customers and their pampered pooches enjoyed an afternoon of socialising and shopping, with the doggies also treated to a massage by animal osteopath Verity Booth. Christmas photographs were taken by Jessica Elisze. A raffle, cake sale and the massages raised £325.50 for the charity.

Katie and Annabelle Jones

Photos by SHEILA

ELLIOTT AND JESSICA ELISZE

Susan Crowley and Sheila Elliott

Leo, Fran and Misha Waller

Cheyanne Bloomfield, Corraine and Janet Rushmer

Laura and Priya Manning and Ann Howard

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HIGH SOCIETY

Pippa Lain-Smith and Lin Whitehead

Amber Davis and Chris Elliott

Sarah Hill, Daphne Sutton, Paul Thain and Steve Wiseman

Sharon Mason and Will Farnell

Scott Rozier, Pippa Lain-Smith and Max Applin

Plain Speaking Agencyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Office Warming, Norwich

Karl Alderton and Kerry London

The Plain Speaking Agency team was delighted to welcome around 30 guests to an evening of drinks and canapĂŠs as the Norwich-based communications agency celebrated its eighth birthday and recent move to new offices. Attendees included clients and friends of the business who have been a great support over the past eight years. The new offices have come as Plain Speaking Agency has enjoyed a year of growth with a new brand identity, new clients and new staff. Photos by MATT

KEAL

Sarah Hill and Nick Applin

Peter Moore Fuller and Max Applin

Claire Reynolds and Sharon Matthews

Sarah Boughen, Pippa Lain-Smith, Kayla Dunne and Amber Davis

| JANUARY 2015

MINUTES

WITH

Jayne Raffles The director of Raffles Restaurants of Norwich cannot quite believe it’s been 25 years since they opened their very first restaurant in the city!

Describe your job to us. I’m a director, with my husband, of Raffles Restaurants: Pinocchio’s Restaurant, St Benedict’s Restaurant and The Library. As a small business owner, my job role is varied, never dull, doing everything from HR, health and safety, and marketing - the list is long! I can’t quite believe it, as it makes me feel ancient, but we will be celebrating 25 years at St Benedict’s Restaurant this year. Where we were you born and what brought you to Norfolk? I was brought up in Berkshire, and worked in London and around the world, before meeting Nigel, my husband, at Hintlesham Hall. I met Nigel in the kitchen - I was working in the pastry section and he was the sous chef (Hintlesham was run by Ruth and David Watson at the time). We then moved to Norwich 25 years ago to buy St Benedict’s Restaurant, which is basically my first baby - before our two gorgeous boys Joshua and Angus. My mother was brought up in Norwich and lived with her family in The Close. Very oddly, my sister also moved to Norwich from Germany the same year, and recently my mother moved to Wymondham after years in France, so we’re all together now. What’s your ideal day out in the area? I love the Broads and a day out with family and friends, with lovely food and a glass of fizz, to experience the peaceful serenity of the waterways with the stunning views. Which iconic Norfolk characters do you most admire and why? I admire local businessmen and Peter Mitchell, MD of Jarrold’s and Peter Wilson of the Theatre Royal are both passionate about their work and Norfolk. Having businesses in The Lanes means there are many characters in quirky jobs, of which I am very fond, especially Bob, our window cleaner, who I always make a coffee for and catch up with.

What’s your favourite pub in Norfolk and what do you like to drink there? I like the Ten Bells on St Benedicts Street, for great cocktails with good vibes. I am madly loyal to The Lanes and try to use as many businesses I can for work and pleasure. Where do you like to eat out in Norfolk and why? And what do you order? I love fresh fish and shellfish, plus Wiveton Hall café for the views of the marshes, lovely food and the pigs which are always running around having escaped their pens. We recently tried Namasta on Opie Street in the city - really tasty, fragrant, light, veggie Indian street food. What do you miss most when you leave the region? The friendliness of Norwich, as there are few places where you will not know at least one person, plus the Market Place, which continues to offer fantastic produce, and a really interesting selection of stalls and stall holders! What are you reading at the moment? Tomorrow There Will Be Apricots by Jessica Soffer. It is all about food, funnily enough! Would you prefer a day on the Broads or a day at Yarmouth’s Pleasure Beach? Why? The Broads, as they are so relaxing and no mobile phone signal means blissful silence! Opera, musical, drama or movie - which would you prefer to watch? And what was the last production/ show you saw? I love opera but also Cinema City - and the recent movie, Gone Girl. Sum up Norfolk in three words We have it all: history, endless skies and beaches, great food and produce. Sorry, I can’t summarise it in three words! Sum up yourself in three words Social, passionate, foodie.

RAFFLES RESTAURANTS in Norwich include St Benedict’s Restaurant, Pinocchio’s Restaurant, also in St Benedicts Street, and The Library Bar and Grill, on Guildhall Hill. Visit www.rafflesrestaurants.co.uk.

102

WINTER SALE NOW ON

WITH GREAT DISCOUNTS THROUGHOUT THE STORE

FREE CHAIR!

Buy 6 or more chairs with this table and receive 1 of them free

T Corndell Nimbus is handmade from oak. The New 1282 extending table comes with one extra leaf and is available in four finishes (a second leaf can also be purchased to further extend the table). This table has a new extending action which means that nobody has to get a leg when seated.

THE OAKLAND SUITE FROM G PLAN

S The Health Beds Kensington Natural Choice 4500 is just one of the beds on offer in the winter sale, with at least 10% off all ranges plus even better offers on 4’6” and 5’0” options. Kensington 4’6” 2+2 s/e drawer set

Was £1,499

Sale price £1,199

Kensington 5’0” 2+2 s/e drawer set

Was £1,899

Sale price £1,349

Aspen 4’6” 2+2 s/e drawer set

Was £799

Sale price £399

Aspen 5’0” 2+2 s/e drawer set

Was £999

Sale price £499

Corndell table & 4 chairs

RRP £1,533

Sale price £1,199

Corndell table & 6 chairs

RRP £1,899

Sale price £1,349

S Over £900 off the RRP for a 3 seater suite in C cover. The Oakland is just one of the G Plan suites on display from the largest selection of G Plan upholstery in Norfolk.

20% OFF

30% OFF

T Harrison’s bedroom collection is just one of the many bedroom ranges available in-store. Select from our new and improved display of the Harrison’s range of quality bedroom furniture, with over 40 options in robes and chests and over 30 finishes, with 10% off the full range including the new Havana (pictured).

It’s one thing to have a vision; quite another to make it reality. But that’s just what we achieved with the all new Audi TT. From the drawing board to the road, we refused to compromise our original design. So the lines of the finished car are exactly the same as the ones you’ll see in the designer’s very first sketch. Visit your local Audi Centre to find out more.

Norwich Audi 17 Meridian Way Norwich Norfolk NR7 0TA 01603 709200 norwich.audi.co.uk Images for illustrative purposes only. They may show optional equipment. Some technologies mentioned are available as optional extras. Official fuel consumption figures for the TT Coupé range in mpg (l/100km) from: Urban 33.6 (8.4) – 57.6 (4.9), Extra Urban 51.4 (5.5) – 76.3 (3.7), Combined 43.5 (6.5) – 67.3 (4.2) CO2 emissions: 151 – 110g/km. Standard EU test figures for comparative purposes and may not reflect real driving results.