Essential Suffolk July August 2018

JULY/AUGUST 2018 | PRICELESS

Essential SUFFOLK

Coast & Heaths Explore beautiful Suffolk this summer

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Celebrating all that makes our county great

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Summer is here, a precious time of the year when we all like to get out and about, enjoy the warmer weather and make the most of the beautiful county we live in. That’s why the July/August edition is devoted to guiding you through the summer – with all the best places to go, events to attend and, if you are looking for inspiration, places to eat out and stay.

So we have a comprehensive guide to festivals – including Maverick, Latitude, FolkEast, Maui Waui, Stowmarket Food Fest and a new kid on the block – Ferry Fest in Felixstowe which includes four days of music, art, craft, dance, theatre and beachcombing.

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One of our favourite events of the whole year is, without doubt, Suffolk Community Foundation’s Dog Day on July 29 at Helmingham Hall – not just because it’s a family day out but because every penny raised also helps small, local charities across the county.

On the gardening front we have an afternoon visit to recommend – Fuller’s Mill in West Stow which was created by the Suffolk brewer who devised the recipe for Abbott Ale, but which today is run by the charity Perennial, helping gardeners in need.

On a more serious note, if you are lonely some of the hardest times of the year are high days and holidays when it seems the rest of the world are out and enjoying themselves in the sunshine. A ground-breaking scheme called Meet Up Mondays which is rapidly spreading across Suffolk should hopefully mean there will be more people out and about enjoying the long days of summer. Already 22 pubs and cafes have joined up to the scheme and on page 28 Ann Osborn, who is spearheading the campaign, talks about the idea.

Want more reading for the lighter evenings? Don’t forget our regular pages of food, fashion and property plus if you want to stretch your legs this month’s Dog Walks – around Pin Mill – are much recommended.

Finally, if you read our ‘Planet Not Plastic’ article last month you’ll have been pleased to discover that the plastic wrapper that your copy of Essential Suffolk arrives in can be recycled.

However, although our supplier correctly advised us that this was the case we wrongly passed on to readers that it can be disposed of in your ‘blue bin’. We’ve since discovered that for Suffolk residents this is not the case (although if you’re a subscriber from elsewhere in the country please check with your local waste collection service). Instead the polybag can be recycled at plastic bag recycling points in larger supermarkets and at your local household waste recycling centre so please take care to follow these guidelines.

Have a great summer and if you want to keep in touch with us why not visit our website – www.essentialsuffolk.com, or check us out on Facebook or Twitter @EssentialSFK.

Essential SUFFOLK Suffolk’s most exclusive magazine delivered only to individually selected homes, businesses and venues. It is brought to you each month with the valued support of our commercial partners. Please let them know you saw them here.

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TERMS AND CONDITIONS Copyright on all content is with Achieve More Media Limited. Reproduction in part or whole if forbidden without the express permission of the publishers. All prices, events and times were to the best of our knowledge correct at the time of going to press and you are encouraged to contact the venue prior to booking. All expressions and opinions within the publication are those of the editor including contributors. Essential Suffolk is a trading name of Achieve More Media Limited.

To subscribe either: 1. Visit www.essentialsuffolk.com/essential-shop 2. Send a cheque for £24 (for 12 issues) or £2.95 (for a single issue) to Achieve More Media Ltd, 21 Terry Gardens, Kesgrave, Suffolk IP5 2EP Prices include postage and packaging. Personal details will be used for subscription purposes only.

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Contents 08

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Summer Festivals

Suffolk in Brief

What’s On

Mini Previews

Latitude, Maverick, Maui Waui, FolkEast and more

News from around the county

Where to go and what to see in Suffolk this July and August

Fit East, The War Against the Plastic Tide Exhibition, Much Ado About Nothing and My Fair Lady

26 Suffolk Dog Day Top dogs’ day out in the county

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Meet Up Mondays

Essential Explores

Fashion

Battling loneliness in Suffolk

Suffolk Coast & Heaths AONB

Hot tropical looks for high summer

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Pub Dog Walk

Food & Drink

Homes & Interiors

Auctions & Antiques

Three circular routes from the Butt and Oyster

Featuring The Randolph, Sibton White Horse, Turks Head and Seckford Hall plus our favourite farm shops

Cool, calm coastal looks for your home

The joys of an archive

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Gardening

Property

Essential Faces

My Suffolk

A visit to Fulllers Mill, West Stow

A selection of our county’s finest homes for sale

Highlight’s from Suffolk’s social calendar

Paul Spencer – founder of Maverick Festival

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JULY / AUGUST 2018

The summer is here and in Suffolk it’s time to kick back and enjoy two months of festival magic. Fingers crossed for a long hot summer as July and August bring incredible opportunities to see live music, theatre, art, comedy and dance and even some food and drink too

A SUMMER OF FESTIVALS JULY 1

Stowmarket Food & Drink Festival Ipswich Street, Stowmarket We kick off July with an exciting new food and drink festival organised by Stowmarket Town Council in conjunction with Anglia Water and the event promises something for everyone.

The intimate historic Market Place and neighbouring streets will provide an ideal location and will be covered with food and drink stalls with a wide variety of produce from across the region. Whether you like traditional food and drink, have more exotic tastes or you are seeking vegan or gluten free options – organisers promise something to get everyone’s taste buds tingling.

A major draw is bound to be the Indoor Kitchen Theatre with assorted award winning chefs giving live cookery demonstrations throughout the day. The sessions will include family friendly cooking, cooking for yourself and more adventurous cookery to impress your family and friends and there will also be plenty to amuse children with competitions, a food race against the clock and a hands-on food-making experience. What’s more admission and car parking are both free.

INFORMATION www.stowmarket.org

JULY 6 – 8

Maverick Easton Farm Park Following a milestone 10th anniversary last year, the UK’s first and finest Americana festival is thrilled to announce the 2018 line-up.

Maverick Festival will once again be showcasing the most authentic and talented musicians from this genre from both sides of the Atlantic.

Highlights include Nashville cult favourites Cordovas; a harmony-heavy, guitar fuelled Americana band – tipped by Rolling Stone magazine as “One’s To Watch”. Norwich eight-piece, The Vagaband, will be returning with their original mix of toe-tapping folk-jazz and rustic Americana to the festival stage this year featuring pedal steel guitar, fiddle and mandolin. Dancing shoes are a must for this live show!

Another highlight of this year’s festival is Tennessean pianist Hans Chew and his band. Best known for his keyboard work with the likes of D. Charles Speer and Hiss Golden Messenger, Hans is also known for his dynamic solo performances, cranking up the tempo with classic boogie-woogie piano.

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Maverick Festival is excited to announce a special feature in this year’s programme celebrating music from Hawaii and its contribution to Americana. The programme includes Maverick favourite, Hank Wangford, who will be sharing tales from his days on the trail with the paniolos, Hawaii's very own cowboys, and BJ Cole and his band. They will debut tracks from their new album, showcasing the slack key guitar and featuring the Hawaiian singer and dancer, Kehau Kahananui.

The festival also presents film and workshops and features over forty different artists, across five stages indoors and out.

INFORMATION maverickfestival.co.uk

an exclusive preview from their forthcoming show, Sylvia, ZooNation: The Kate Prince Company combines dance, hip hop, soul and funk to shed new light on a remarkable story at the heart of the Suffragette movement. Sadler’s Wells will also present Nomadis from the Birmingham-based Humanhood; Volume 1 by New Adventures Choreographer Award-winner Jamaal Burkmar, performed by his company Extended Play; and Used To Be Blonde, the new show from Sharon Eyal, performed by the National Youth Dance Company.

Maintaining Latitude’s tradition of exciting, diverse, dynamic and cutting-edge programming, the theatre line up gets even bigger. Gate Theatre and English National Opera present Effigies of Wickedness, a cabaret of riotous songs banned by the Nazis in the 1930s. Paines Plough and Birmingham Repertory Theatre premiere Anna Jordan's new play Pop Music, a new show produced in association with Latitude Festival.

JULY 12 – 17

Latitude Henham Park The 13th Latitude Festival brings a potent mix of music, art and culture and this year Radio Four’s legendary Gardener’s Question Time too. Big names in the arts arena are Harry Hill and Bridget Christie, with music headliners The Killers, Alt-J and Solange.

The dance programme is particularly strong with all-male dance company BalletBoyz returning with their new show, Fourteen Days, where acclaimed choreographers including Craig Revel-Horwood and Christopher Wheeldon were given just fourteen days to work with world-renowned composers to make new commissions. New Adventures come to Latitude with an exclusive preview from their new show and Matthew Bourne’s Swan Lake returns with a fresh look for the 21st century.

Master-puppeteers Blind Summit Theatre bring the UK premiere of Henry to the festival, while Three Sisters by RashDash, after Chekhov sees the award-winning feminist theatre and music makers take on Anton Chekhov's revered play and reimagine it with electric guitars, in a festival-special gig-theatre edition. Also in The Cabaret Theatre, audiences can experience Just Like Real Life: a vivid and violent new work from theatre-makers Emma Attwood and Nick Finegan, that uses virtual reality to immerse the audience in their world.

An eclectic range of award-winning writers, poets, podcasters and authors will perform in Latitude’s legendary SpeakEasy, including laureate of punk and reluctant national treasure John Cooper Clarke and nature writer Patrick Barkham. Joining the jam-packed comedy bill is comedian and presenter Joel Dommett, who will head to the Comedy Arena, as well as participating in the Modern Love panel. Joel is joined by Rachel Parris, viral star of BBC2's satirical show The Mash Report, and Kat Bond, winner of Vault Festival Comedy Award 2017.

In a timely new contemporary show, Phoenix Dance Theatre explores the Caribbean immigrant experience, in Windrush: Movement of the People, where audiences will glimpse what the first generation of Caribbean immigrants experienced when they came to England 70 years ago.

And so to Gardeners’ Question Time – the team is coming to Latitude and setting up camp at the festival, quite literally, on Friday 13th July.

Throughout the day GQT panellists will be found onsite in a retro camper van pop-up, offering the unique opportunity for festival-goers to put their gardening questions directly to GQT’s horticultural gurus.

Questions will be recorded for a special edition of the programme from Latitude, to be broadcast on Radio 4.

Sadler’s Wells returns to the festival for a momentous 11th year to present a diverse programme of world-class dance in all its forms. In

INFORMATION www.latitude festival.com

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JULY / AUGUST 2018

AUGUST 1 – 31

Snape Proms Snape Maltings Concert Hall The 2018 Snape Proms season features some of the best artists from the worlds of classical music, jazz, blues, folk and pop and as always, thousands of Prom tickets will go on sale at just £6.50.

The Proms start with the return of the all-singing, all-strumming Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain who, as well as their reinterpretations of popular classics, invite the audience to bring their own ukuleles and join in. Snape Maltings also welcomes back Proms favourites the John Wilson Orchestra, and BBC 2 Radio’s evergreen music show Friday Night is Music Night with the BBC Concert Orchestra.

From the world of jazz and blues, experience the ‘genuine cool’ of Georgie Fame and the BBC Big Band, the blues-drenched New Orleans sound of The Dime Notes and the mind-blowing collaboration between Courtney Pine and soul pioneer Omar.

Newcomer Hailey Tuck performs music from her chart-topping debut album, Paul Jones’ all-star quintet The Blues Band hosts an evening to celebrate rhythm and blues, and the Piccadilly Dance Orchestra is teaming up, for its 30th birthday, with Strictly Come Dancing singer Lance Ellington for a night of Bing Crosby, Frank Sinatra and Cole Porter. The Proms season ends with an intimate solo performance from South Africa’s legendary jazz pianist Abdullah Ibrahim.

The Folk and Roots line-up features ex-Bellowhead frontman Jon

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FE ST I VAL S

Boden with his new group The Remnant Kings, Altan’s captivating sounds of Donegal, Nashville’s Gretchen Peters, and celebrated American baroque orchestra Apollo’s Fire with Appalachian folk classics including I wonder as I wander.

The classical programme has a huge amount to offer this year, including the Snape Maltings debut of Daniel Barenboim and his pioneering West-Eastern Divan Orchestra, a performance of Beethoven’s Fifth Symphony from memory by the Aurora Orchestra, award-winning classical guitarist Miloš Karadaglić performing music from Bach to The Beatles. Pianist Christian Blackshaw brings a new collaboration with principal players of the Berliner Philharmoniker and one of the world’s greatest quartets, the Takács String Quartet, performs music by Mozart, Dvořák and Mendelssohn.

Young musicians also have a strong presence, with performances from the National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain, Suffolk Youth Orchestra and the National Youth Choir of Great Britain, as well as three concerts featuring the Britten-Pears Orchestra conducted by Marin Alsop including a family concert with Prokofiev’s Peter and the Wolf.

For the Snape Proms the seats at the front of Snape Maltings Concert Hall are removed and approximately 4,000 Prom tickets are sold at £6.50, giving audiences the chance to get the closest view of the action. A further 20 for each event are held back for sale on the first day of general booking, and for each event 20 £6.50 Prom tickets go on sale on the morning of the event.

INFORMATION Box Office: 01728 687110 | www.snapemaltings.co.uk

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JULY / AUGUST 2018

AUGUST 17 – 19

FolkEast Glemham Hall Growing in stature every year, East Anglia’s FolkEast is back for the seventh time this August, proving why it is nothing like other music festivals. The three day festival will return to the glorious 300-acre Suffolk estate and it will be packing a punch with possibly its most impressive line-up to date led by two of the most enduring and legendary bands from the genre – Oysterband and Show of Hands.

Oysterband, who will headline the Friday night, have been on the road with their high impact folk rock show for over 40 years, led by frontman John Jones. Meanwhile Steve Knightley and Phil Beer, of Show of Hands, last year celebrated their 25th year with a fifth sellout at the Royal Albert Hall. At FolkEast they will take to the Sunset stage as Saturday headliners, joined by their long-term third member – the acclaimed bassist and vocalist Miranda Sykes.

There will be a Scottish valedictory on Sunday night with Glasgow’s power trio The John Langan Band topping the bill. Award winners at the famous Celtic Connections Festival their music is rooted in Celtic folk but weaves in fascinating Balkan, Roma and flamenco threads.

One of the most exciting names in the line-up will be the phenomenal guitar and melodeon player Tim Edey. FolkEast is also delighted to welcome the Irish-Canadian award-winning songwriter and force of

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nature that is Irish Mythen. County Wexford-born but now living in Canada’s Prince Edward Island she is one of the most fearless and powerful performers out there and has appeared with both Rod Stewart and Gordon Lightfoot.

swing, folk, funk, soul and reggae) to the ‘Crime Scene’ DJ dance tent (electro, techno, trance) and the famous Flavour Parlour Stage which showcases some of the best budding music in the UK.

The five brothers of Co Durham’s big noise acapella singers The Wilsons and the triple talents of master musicians John McCusker, Mike McGoldrick and John Doyle will also be making their mark and the Gigspanner Big Band will see Peter Knight’s celebrated Gigspanner trio joined by Phillip Henry and Hannah Martin. FolkEast’s irrepressible patrons The Young’ uns (Sean Cooney, David Eagle and Michael Hughes), popular winners of the 2016 and 2015 Best Group title at the BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards promise another action-packed live podcast – one of the funniest, most enthralling highlights of last year’s festival.

Other confirmed artists include harmonica and melodeon wizard Will Pound, this time with his unique Through The Seasons Morris and folk dance show (with music performed by Pound, Benji Kirkpatrick and Ross Grant), ex Bellowhead cellist Rachael McShane with her new band The Cartographers and top young duo Greg Russell & Ciaran Algar.

The festival, with its mythical creature emblem The Jackalope, offers a refreshingly different line-up across six stages (including St Andrew’s Church, the open air Sunset Stage and the hidden woodland Soapbox Stage), with two authentic ‘village’ pubs serving competitively-priced festival ales plus possibly the smallest pub in the UK, The Halfway Inn. Then there’s the FolkEast Art Arcade, packed dance programme, archery, donkey rides, a mini golf course, children’s activities (including den building, storybook making and a mud kitchen), yoga, poetry, storytelling, the Eastfolk Chronicle Kinedrome (showing folk and local interest films) and tours of Glemham Hall by Major Philip Hope-Cobbold.

Months of creative work goes into the event, ensuring that its Peakhill Farm venues and attractions really look the part. It’s this attention to detail that really sets this event apart from other small festivals and it is proud to have a green policy; recycling 80 percent of all its rubbish on site, using solar energy to power lighting around the site and having ethical trading and food standards.

INFORMATION www.mauiwauievents.co.uk

AUGUST 24 – 27

Ferry Fest Felixstowe Ferry

INFORMATION www.folkeast.co.uk There’s a new festival for Felixstowe over the August Bank Holiday weekend and Ferry Fest promises a celebration of arts and community in surely one of the most stunning rural settings – Felixstowe Ferry.

On the agenda are four fabulous days of live music, art and craft, theatre, dance, ceilidh, food and drink, beach combing, picnics, pirates and more!

AUGUST 24 – 26

Maui Waui Theberton Now in its 6th year Maui Waui is a three day festival of international music, performance and arts showcasing accomplished as well as undiscovered bands and performers from all around the globe. Maui Waui also focuses on an all-welcoming family feel with lots to do for children; in fact there’s free entry for all those under 13. For the adults it hosts world class bands, full circus shows in a dedicated circus tent, small upbeat bands and acoustic acts, plus cabaret and comedy.

The Festival is being supported by a number of local businesses including Oaks Tearoom, Adnams, Visit Felixstowe and Felixstowe Ferry Sailing Club plus the event will be raising funds for youth sailing including a special Push the Boat Out event offering sailing taster sessions.

INFORMATION Follow Ferry Fest Felixstowe on Facebook

New for 2018 is the World Music Café Stage – an exciting new stage to showcase world music from around the globe, expect late night Flamenco shows, traditional Reggae and live African music. There are six stages at Maui Waui from the Main Stage in the Big Top (electro

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Woodbridge boutique Adams Apple is reopening this month. At the beginning of March this year, owner Beverley Horne was forced to close the shop temporarily to repair the damage caused by a burst water pipe in the apartment above. It’s been a long process of drying the building out, redecorating and relaying the floors.

Although far from ideal this forced closure has given Beverley and her team a chance to refresh the décor adding a new sign outside giving the whole store a new stylish look.

All the favourite fashion brands that Adams Apple are well known for are in-store so why not call by and check out the beautiful summer collection in now.

dedication to the Mill without which it would not be in the strong position it is today. The fight to keep this symbolic town attraction robust, functioning and solvent continues however and I’m delighted that Bob will remain a Trustee and Volunteer”.

A corporate golf day in Suffolk has raised £2,185 for host company Vertas Group Limited’s chosen charity, Cancer Research UK. Held at Stoke by Nayland Golf Club, the Vertas charity golf day was hosted by Chief Executive Officer Ian Surtees MBA who commented,“The generosity of players, sponsors and prize donors has been incredible again this year. As well as raising a tremendous amount for our chosen charity of the year Cancer Research UK we have enjoyed the opportunity to ‘touch base’ with our business partners in facilities management and associated sectors, from construction to engineering. As our group of companies continues to grow and acquire businesses these partnerships become even more critical to our success.”

Twenty staff from the award-winning housebuilder Hopkins Homes recently undertook several vital projects at Deben Community Care Farm, Melton, including the construction of a polytunnel, raised beds and fencing around two paddocks. James Hopkins, Executive Chairman of Hopkins Homes said: “Last year we expanded the Hopkins Charitable Fund and through this we have contributed financially to a wide range of charities and groups across East Anglia.

However our intention behind the fund was not just to provide monetary support, our staff want the opportunity to offer some hands on help too. It was a pleasure to lend our construction skills to the projects at Deben Farm, helping them to achieve their goals of providing more activities and continuing their work with adults and young people in the community.” The day was organised by Suffolk Community Foundation which administers the Hopkins Charitable Fund in the county. Stephen Singleton, CEO of Suffolk Community Foundation said: “We’ve worked with James Hopkins for a number of years and know how passionate he is about strengthening communities and supporting local groups who work so hard to achieve this.”

Bob Spillett, ViceChair of Woodbridge Tide Mill Trustees since 2012 and hardworking volunteer, has stepped down from the role after a busy five years. Bob has been an intrinsic part of the effort to make the Mill commercially capable of economic independence and will continue to work with, and help co-ordinate, a busy roster of volunteers who look after the maintenance, show visitors around and keep the Mill open through the season. Bob also sells and delivers most of the flour produced by the Mill and was recently to be seen at the Suffolk Show with one of the Mill’s biggest customers; the East of England Co-op.

Chairman of Trustees John Carrington presented an engraved glass bowl to Bob commenting that “The Trustees are most grateful to Bob for his hard work and

Nuffield Health picked up the award for Private Hospital Group of the Year for the second time at the Health Investor Awards 2018. The award is designed to recognise outstanding contribution to healthcare over the past 12 months, through innovation and excellence in healthcare products and services.

With a network of 31 hospitals across the UK, Nuffield Health has concentrated on enhancing patient satisfaction and quality care across the organisation. In 2017, two of its hospitals – the Nuffield Health Leeds and the Nuffield Health Tees – became the second and

B R I E F third Nuffield Health Hospitals to receive the highest possible rating of excellence with an ‘Outstanding’ rating from the regulator the Care Quality Commission (CQC). To date 94% of Nuffield Health hospitals reviewed by regulators have achieved a rating of good or outstanding. In accepting the award, Martin Friend, Chief Operations Officer said: “It's great to be recognised two years in a row as leaders in healthcare excellence. This reflects our hospital teams' consistent drive and focus to be the best.”

Curzon Associate Marketing, based in Woodbridge, is celebrating 10 years since Steve Curzon founded the business in 2008.

The past 10 years has seen brands such as Gressingham Duck, The Garden Trellis Company, Sock Shop, Munchy Seeds, Sutton Hoo Chicken, Paddy & Scotts and Kettle Chips on Curzon Marketing’s impressive client roster. Founder, Steve Curzon explains, “We help local and national clients develop their marketing strategy, shape their brand and for many we’ll run their entire marketing operation. In every case we focus on growth, working with the business owners to develop their brand. Essentially, we make marketing work harder – I’m slightly obsessed with measuring success!”

Suffolk based holiday lettings agency, Best of Suffolk has a history of leading the market and has announced that its service is now available 24/7 to customers.

Understanding the changing digital world in which we live and work, Best of Suffolk has used the tools and technology available to implement the new 24/7 opening hours.

Now cutomers can contact the Best of Suffolk team at a time that best suits them, whether this is during the day or the night.

Commenting on the changes, Head of Operations Tim Ripman stated, “The team at Best of Suffolk is driven by a passion for providing our customers with a first-class service, assisting them with finding their perfect holiday. We understand that people want to enquire and book a holiday when it suits them, and we’re pleased to say we’ve now implemented the technology to enable our customers to do just this.”

More news can always be found at www.essentialsuffolk.com/content

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JULY / AUGUST 2018

What’s On JULY 1

JULY 7

JULY 8

Ipswich Music Day New Wolsey Theatre & Christchurch Park, Ipswich, 12pm

Farmers Markets Beccles Heliport, 9am – 1pm Snape Maltings, 9.30am – 1pm Wyken Vineyard, 9am – 1pm

Indian Summer Mela Christchurch Park, 12pm

The biggest free one-day music festival in the UK! Six stages in Christchurch Park and four more across the town will be full of the biggest sounds. What can the kids get up to?

Henna, glitter tattoos, face-painting, bungee trampolines and a fairground full of your favourite fun fair rides for starters. There is also a marketplace selling gifts, jewellery, food products, clothing and balloons. And don’t forget our street food – we have all the delicious dishes you could want.

Entry: Free Rhythm Kings The Apex, Bury St Edmunds, 7.30pm Originally formed by ex-Rolling Stone bass player, Bill Wyman, in 1996, this band has worked with the likes of Mary Wilson, Eric Clapton, Mark Knopfler, Paul Carrack and many more.

Tickets: £26.50 Box Office: 01284 758000 www.theapex.co.uk

JULY 4 Open Air Theatre: The Importance of Being Earnest Christchurch Mansion Lawn, 7.30pm This energetic and musical production from the critically-acclaimed Pantaloons infuses Wilde’s witty words with snappy new songs and frantically funny physical theatre to give this perennially popular play a hilarious contemporary twist!

Tickets: £8.50 www.ipswichentertains.co.uk

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Global Rhythm Christchurch Park, 12pm If you’re looking for a colourful celebration of worldwide culture, look no further than Global Rhythm in 2018. Enjoy live music, MCs and world music acts all day as you broaden your rhythmic horizons. Travel the globe in a single stretch of delicious cuisine, and hear fusions of musical genres that originated thousands of miles apart. If you want to get involved, Christchurch Mansion is playing host to Arts La'Olam, a team bringing an array of songs, dances and rhythms from around the world.

Free: Entry www.ipswichentertains.co.uk Gloria!

Framlingham College Chapel, Framlingham Phoenix Singers, conducted by Andrew Cantrill, perform Poulenc Gloria and Brahms Requiem, with Rebcca Lea (soprano) and Alex Ashworth (bass) accompanied by the Bibby Sisters Piano duo.

Entry: £12 (£6 under 18s) Contact: William Glasse, william@glasse.org.uk, 07802 597071 www.phoenixsingers.org.uk

JULY 7 – 8 Antique, Vintage, Retro & Collectors Fair Stonham Barns, 10am There will be many indoor and outdoor stalls for you to come and have a look round selling an array of antiques, vintage, retro and collectables with everything from, jewellery, china, stamps, militaria, linen and toys, furniture, vintage clothing, aesthetic arts, kitchen kit, homeware and all manner of collectables. There will be something here to suit all tastes and all pockets.

Entry: £2 - £3.50 www.stonhambarns.co.uk

There’s nothing quite like the Mela for a celebration of Asian culture in Ipswich!

The event’s vibrant marketplace and Indian food village has a treat for every sense with colourful dishes and sumptuous smells.

Performances will be happening all day demonstrating the best of Indian dance and music, some with the chance to get in on the action yourself. Get immersed in the day and join in as well – instructors will be leading sari and turban demonstrations, cooking demonstrations and even Bollywood workshops!

Free: Entry www.ipswichentertains.co.uk Dougie MacLean The Apex, Bury St Edmunds, 7.30pm Distinguished Scottish singer-songwriter who has developed a unique blend of lyrical, ‘roots based’ songwriting and instrumental composition. MacLean’s songs have been covered by the likes of Paolo Nutini, Amy MacDonald and Ronan Keating. His song ‘Caledonia’ has become one of Scotland’s most popular contemporary songs and he has received numerous gold discs, a Lifetime Achievement Award from BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards and an OBE in the New Year Honours list.

Tickets: £21 Box Office: 01284 758000 www.theapex.co.uk Walk For Wards Languard Point, Felixstowe, 10am Head along the sunny coastline of Felixstowe and raise money for charity. Bring the whole family for a day out and walk the length of the seafront, taking in views of the port, beach huts along the way and if you walk the full 10K you can check out the view across to Bawdsey! Walk together and do something amazing to raise funds for your chosen ward or department at Ipswich, Felixstowe or Aldeburgh Hospital.

Entry: £5 (£15 per family of 4) Information: 01473 702929 or charity@ipswichhospital.nhs.uk

WH AT’ S ON

JULY 11 – SEPTEMBER 1

JULY 13

Suffolk Summer Theatre Southwold and Aldeburgh

One Man, Two Guvnors The Cut, Halesworth, 7.30pm

Body Language by Alan Ayckbourn A Daughter’s Daughter by Agatha Christie Funny Money by Ray Cooney Jeeves and Wooster in Perfect Nonsense Information: southwoldtheatre.org

Richard Beans English version of Goldini's classic comedy, set in 1963 Brighton. Francis Henshall finds himself working for both a gangster and a criminal in hiding, both of whom are linked in a web of schemes, extortions and romantic associations. To prevent discovery, Francis must do everything he can to keep his two guvnors apart.

A massive hit in both the West End and on Broadway.

Tickets: £9 Box Office: 0300 3033 211

JULY 12 Used to be Blonde DanceEast, Ipswich, 7.30pm

Farmers Markets Halesworth Produce Market, The Old Print Works, 9am – 1pm Woodbridge Community Centre, 9am – 1pm Wyken Vineyard, 9am – 1pm

JULY 14 – 15 U.Dance National Festival 2018 DanceEast, Ipswich Each year the U.Dance National Festival showcases a selection of the best youth dance groups from all over the country.

Tickets: £10 Box Office: 01473 295230 www.danceeast.co.uk

JULY 14

Supporting children’s charity NSPCC, the programme of sparkling Stravinsky and the lyrical charms of Dvorak and Mendelssohn is not to be missed!

Tickets: £12 Box Office: 01986 896416 www.mozartorchestra.org.uk

JULY 15 Bratislava Hot Serenaders The Apex, Bury St Edmunds, 7.30pm 21-piece ensemble playing vintage 1920s and 30s music by Paul Whiteman, Ellington, early Basie, Jack Hylton and Carroll Gibbons orchestras.

Tickets: £20 Box Office: 01284 758000 www.theapex.co.uk

SUMMER SCHOOLS FOR ALL AGES

© Roswitha Chesher, 2017

National Youth Dance Company (NYDC) is working with guest Artistic Director Sharon Eyal this summer. This new commission will contain Sharon Eyal’s signature style, conveying extreme emotions through movement.

Tickets: £12 Box Office: 01473 295230 www.danceeast.co.uk

The Mozart Orchestra Bungay Festival Concert St Mary’s Church, Bungay, 7.30pm

MONDAY 6 – FRIDAY 10 AUGUST Summer schools are a great way for you to experience a range of different dance styles. You’ll work with DanceEast tutors, guest teachers and get creative!

Age suitability ranges from 4 – 18yrs

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Too hot in bed?

Do you struggle to get a good nights sleep? There are any number of factors that could be causing you to loose out on those precious hours of rest and the team at the Sleep Studio in Ipswich would like to help.

Woolroom recognises the importance of healthy, high quality sleep and have developed a unique range of 100% natural beds and bedding solution's to help you get the sleep you deserve.

The wonders of wool NATURALLY HYPOALLERGENIC SELF CLEANING NATURAL TEMPERATURE REGULATION LONG LIFE DURABILITY SUSTAINABILITY For a free no obligation sleep studio consultation call the Woolroom Ipswich today.

Woolroom Sleep Studio, Sycamore Farm Somersham Road, Bramford, Ipswich IP8 4NN T: 01473 831723/07477 090 745 E: ipswich@thewoolroom.com Open Tuesdays and Thursdays 10am – 4pm.

Call us to arrange a visit at any other time.

www.thewoolroom.com

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WH AT’ S ON

Kelsale Open Gardens Kelsale, 10am – 5pm 12 gardens open in and around the pretty village of Kelsale, visit the new wildlife area in the recreation ground and continue on foot or by car to Curlew Green. Homemade cakes, refreshments and raffle.

Entry: £5 (accompanied children under 16 free ) Contact: clairebuttle50@gmail.com 01728 603475

JULY 28 Farmers Markets Woodbridge Community Centre, 9am – 1pm Wyken Vineyard, 9am – 1pm The Total Who Show The Apex, Bury St Edmunds, 7.30pm

JULY 21 Farmers Markets Aldeburgh Church Hall, 9am – 12 noon Beccles Heliport, 9am – 1pm Long Melford, Village Memorial Hall, 10am – 1pm Wyken Vineyard, 9am – 1pm

Farmers Markets Beccles Heliport, 9am – 1pm Snape Maltings, 9.30am – 1pm Wyken Vineyard, 9am – 1pm Renegade Twelve The Apex, Bury St Edmunds, 7pm Renegade Twelve play melodic metal inspired

by Iron Maiden, Metallica and Slash. The band's debut album boasts ten tracks that burst with rock driven riffs and rich vocals.

After gigging extensively throughout the UK, they return to their hometown with a full performance of the album, with the show recorded live for online music platforms later this year. All profits will be going to IEMC, a community interest company targeting low income areas across Suffolk and delivering arts inclusion to young people that would otherwise miss out.

Tickets: £12 Box Office: 01284 758000 www.theapex.co.uk

JULY 26 Wildlife Fun Day Holywells, Ipswich, 12pm Familiar farmyard friends and some wildlife creatures are coming to the park along with trained rangers to give you the advice to keep your pets healthy. Learn how to look after the wildlife in your neighbourhood!

Entry: Free www.ipswichentertains.co.uk

JULY 27 Chris Ramsey Ipswich Regent, 7.30pm Critically acclaimed and award winning Stand Up comedian, host of his own TV entertainment show and Stand Up show on Comedy Central, Celebrity Juice regular and the only person to ever put Katie Hopkins in her place; Chris Ramsey brings his brand new 2018 live tour to the Ipswich Regent Theatre.

Tickets: £23 Box Office: 01473 433100 Farmers Markets Sudbury, St Peter’s Market Hill, 9.30am – 2pm

JULY 27 – 29 Felixstowe Carnival Including a proms concert, procession and entertainment and fireworks. www.felixstowecarnival.org

Two hours of all the hits including Won't Get Fooled Again, My Generation, Pinball Wizard, Who Are You, Substitute and more, by Johnny Warman’s Magic Bus. Tickets: £18 Box Office: 01284 758000 www.theapex.co.uk

JULY 29 Suffolk Dog Day Helmingham Hall See Preview page 26 www.suffolkdogday.com

AUGUST 1 Summer Cinema Fun Day Holywells Park, Ipswich, 12pm Moana and The Secret Life of Pets on a giant cinema screen in the park, so bring your snacks, deck chairs and picnic blankets.

Entry: Free www.ipswichentertains.co.uk

AUGUST 4 Park Road DanceEast, Ipswich, 4pm & 7.30pm To celebrate the tenth anniversary of the Centre for Advanced Training at DanceEast, the students will showcase their hard work in a special performance.

Tickets: £10 Box Office: 01473 295230 www.danceeast.co.uk

AUGUST 4 AND 5 Southwold Model Railway Exhibition Saint Felix School From toy trains to finescale modelling, Southwold Model Railway Exhibition, is the biggest in East Anglia. Organised by Waveney Valley Model Railway Club, featuring around twenty layouts including one with live-steam trains. Outdoors there’ll be miniature train and traction engine rides, indoors a variety of layouts representing various periods and regions, trade and society stands, modelling demonstrations etc. Light refreshments will be available, wheelchair access to all exhibits and free car parking. Charity raffle supporting East Anglian Air Ambulance and East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices.

Entry: Ages 18+ £7, 12-17 £3. Under 12 free Email: waveneyvalleymrc@aol.com www.wvmrc.org.uk

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JULY / AUGUST 2018

AUGUST 5

AUGUST 11

AUGUST 15

Just Push Play 4 The Apex, Bury St Edmunds, 3pm

Farmers Markets Halesworth Produce Market, The Old Print Works, 9am – 1pm Woodbridge Community Centre, 9am – 1pm Wyken Vineyard, 9am – 1pm

The League of Gentlemen Ipswich Regent, 7.30pm

Lee Graham’s annual Just Push Play gigs, in honour of his music-loving father, have raised over £5000 for St Nicholas Hospice Care. This year, The Bad Flowers will headline, with sets from Druids, Amethysts, In My Disguise, The Fretz, Circadian and Mouse-Drawn Cart and an auction of music-related memorabilia.

Tickets: £8 (in advance) Box Office: 01284 758000 www.theapex.co.uk

AUGUST 8 Active Fun Day Holywells, Ipswich, 12pm Have a go at the inflatable obstacles, outdoor activities or give our sports equipment a whirl.

There’s never been a better chance to get out in the sunshine and stretch those legs!

Entry: Free www.ipswichentertains.co.uk

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AUGUST 12 Beccles Antiques Street Market Beccles Town Centre The market plays host to a hundred general and specialist dealers selling a wide range of good quality antiques and collectables including furniture, silver, china, linen, jewellery, books, clocks, retro and vintage design and decorative items. Many of the local shops and restaurants and bars are open, first class local ‘street food’ catering is incorporated into the market, including a hog roast. If you haven’t been before you really should give it a visit and experience the pleasure of a busy outdoor specialist market.

Entry: Free Contact: 01502 711174 www.facebook.com/antiquesmarketbeccles

The League of Gentlemen return to the stage in 2018 for their first UK tour in over 12 years with their brand new live show ‘The League of Gentlemen Live Again!’ See BAFTA Award winning comedy legends Reece Shearsmith, Steve Pemberton, Mark Gatiss and Jeremy Dyson bring their dark and unhinged fictional village of Royston Vasey to theatres and arenas across the country.

Tickets: £42.50 Box Office: 01473 433100 The Graces Glemham Hall, Little Glemham, 7pm ends 8.30pm (canapes and drinks) Mezzo-soprano Quinn Patrick-Ankrum presents an EAA benefit concert in the 16th century splendour of Glemham Hall. Highlight of the evening will be CPE Bach’s secular cantata for voice and keyboard, The Graces.

Entry: £16 Advance booking only from www.eastanglianacademy.org.uk, or by email (eastanglianacademy@gmail.com) Contact: 01728 648571 www.eastanglianacademy.org.uk

WH AT’ S ON

AUGUST 18

AUGUST 23 – 24

Farmers Markets Aldeburgh Church Hall, 9am – 12 noon Beccles Heliport, 9am – 1pm Long Melford, Village Memorial Hall, 10am – 1pm Wyken Vineyard, 9am – 1pm

Thorpeness Regatta and Fireworks

AUGUST 18 – 20 Aldeburgh Carnival Winner of the best Family Tourism Event in Norfolk & Suffolk and with the theme “Fly Me to the Moon”, the 2018 Aldeburgh Carnival will take off over the weekend of 18th-20th August. All the popular attractions will be there plus new events including an expanded Musical Saturday. The three days will be a kaleidoscope of entertainment, music, competitions and spectacle leading up to Monday’s Grand Parade, arena displays and the emotive lantern procession, all rounded off with very special fireworks.

Email: info@aldeburghcarnival.com

The Meare opened in June 1913 and the first impromptu Regatta took place on the August Bank Holiday. The annual tradition continues each August.

The Musical’ follows the Oscar-winning film starring Richard Gere.

Tickets: £40.50 Box Office: 01473 433100

AUGUST 29 Vehicle Fun Day Holywells, Ipswich, 12pm

AUGUST 25 Farmers Markets Woodbridge Community Centre, 9am – 1pm Wyken Vineyard, 9am – 1pm

AUGUST 26 Farmers Markets Lavenham Village Hall, 10am – 1.30pm

AUGUST 27 An Officer and a Gentleman Ipswich Regent, 7.30pm The world premiere of a new musical based on true events, ‘An Officer and a Gentleman

Time to start your engines and put your feet on the pedals – it’s a day dedicated to anything on wheels! Check out some amazing vintage cars and even learn how to fix a puncture on your bike.

Entry: Free www.ipswichentertains.co.uk

To see more event listings and tell us about your event visit essentialsuffolk.com/whats-on-in-suffolk

SUMMER BBQ + DANCING TO DREAMWAVE EVENTS DJ

SATURDAY 14 JULY / FRIDAY 24 AUGUST

GLASS OF SIPSMITH SUMMER CUP ON ARRIVAL BBQ – HOG ROAST, STEAK, SAUSAGES, SALMON, SALADS, CHOICE OF DESSERTS, COFFEE TICKETS £45 PER PERSON Book online at www.milsomhotels.com/summer-bbq Call 01473 333741 or email reception@kesgravehall.com

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FIT EAST Trinity Park July 14 Looking for inspiration to get in shape this summer? On July 14 a new fitness festival in Suffolk could have just what you need. Fit East was born out of the desire to bring people together to enjoy the fun of fitness and learn how to have a healthier mind, body and lifestyle.

Activities will include adrenaline pumping classes, runs, HIIT workouts, bounce classes, dance fitness, Army boot camp and assault course and all-important health checks. Organised by Trinity Park Events, the trading subsidiary of the Suffolk Agricultural Association, this event welcomes all ranges of abilities, from beginners to fitness fanatics.

Visitors will be treated to an insight into the fitness programmes of a professional athlete, mind coaching techniques, along with learning about what to eat. There will be a variety of seminars throughout the day to educate on a host of topics including nutrition and rehabilitation.

MY FAIR LADY Ipswich Regent July 4 to 7, 7.30pm (Saturday matinee 2.30pm)

Phillip Ainsworth Chief Executive of the Suffolk Agricultural Association says, ‘We are delighted to be able to host such an empowering day at Trinity Park. It is the perfect environment to host a fitness festival and we hope people will be inspired to take part in the many activities on offer.” Classes designed for people with disabilities will help those involved not only improve their fitness and skills but also their confidence, self-esteem and the chance for them to meet new people and make friends. Fit East will also provide projects for the elderly to inspire them to get involved in community clubs and activities.

Ipswich's IODS Theatre Company is proud to present Lerner and Loewe’s award-winning musical, My Fair Lady. Widely considered as one of the greatest musicals of all time, My Fair Lady tells the story of a Cockney flower girl transformed into an elegant lady.

When it opened on Broadway, it collected six Tony Awards, including Best Musical, while the film version took home eight Oscars, including Best Picture. Based on George Bernard Shaw’s play Pygmalion, My Fair Lady is that rare musical by which all others are measured.

The tale of a Covent Garden flower seller transformed into an elegant lady features one of musical theatre’s greatest scores, including: ‘Wouldn’t It Be Loverly?,’ ‘With a Little Bit of Luck,’ ‘The Rain in Spain’, ‘I Could Have Danced All Night’, ‘On The Street Where You Live, ‘Get Me to the Church on Time’, and ‘I’ve Grown Accustomed to Her Face’.

IODS Theatre Company is a local community theatre group with an award winning history both at the Regent Theatre and New Wolsey Theatre. Past shows include Dirty Rotten Scoundrels, The Wizard of Oz, Oklahoma, Sunset Boulevard and many others.

INFORMATION Box Office: 01473 433100 www.ipswichregent.com

INFORMATION Tickets are £20 adults or £10 children and concessions and are available online. www.trinityparkevents.co.uk/fiteast

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All work and no play?

Ideally located just 2 minutes from the A12, with free parking and complimentary Wi-Fi.

For more information, please contact our Conference and Events Department.

CELEBRATING

7

YEARS 1

Ufford Park Woodbridge is the ideal location for your day, residential meeting or team building activity. In conjunction with our 7 air-conditioned and flexible meeting rooms, if you are looking for some time out with the team, we can arrange anything from hovercraft building and clay pigeon shooting to belly dancing!

1992-2

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t. 01394 383555 ext.325 e. events@uffordpark.co.uk w. www.uffordpark.co.uk

Yarmouth Road | Melton | Woodbridge | Suffolk | IP12 1QW

M IN I P R E V IE WS

THE WAR AGAINST THE PLASTIC TIDE Walberswick July 21 – September 2

MUCH ADO ABOUT NOTHING Every summer for the last five years children’s author Anna Farther has organised a pop-up art exhibition in Walberswick. But, this year the Seaview Exhibition – for the first time – will be raising money for charity; The Marine Conservation Society.

Anna explained that being a resident of a small seaside village on Suffolk’s Heritage Coast and surrounded by stunning protected marshland and heaths meant that she wanted to raise awareness of plastic pollution. “An alarming 91 per cent of all the plastic ever created has not been recycled, meaning it will haunt our natural environment for over 400 years until it biodegrades. In doing so, micro-plastics enter our food chain and if current trends continue, plastic will outweigh fish in our oceans by 2050.”

So this year the Seaview Gallery in Walberswick is bringing together eight acclaimed coastal artists from East Anglia in a special fundraising exhibition for marine conservation. Alongside works for sale by James Dodds, Laurence Edwards, Kate Giles, Tim Fargher, Andrew Pringle, Helen Napper, Fiona Petheram and Karen Downing, visitors are invited to silently bid on selected artworks kindly donated by a number of the artists. Proceeds from the auction and sales from bespoke tote bags and reusable beeswax cling film will go to the Marine Conservation Society.

INFORMATION Open: Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays and August Bank Holiday Monday 10am – 5pm. www.seaviewgallerywalberswick.com

Jimmy’s Farm August 1 – 26 This year’s Theatre in the Forest brings Shakespeare’s hilarious comedy of chivalry and courtship to the beautiful woods at Jimmy’s Farm. The Suffolk theatre company, Red Rose Chain has assembled a hugely talented cast of familiar faces for Joanna Carrick’s ambitious adaptation of Much Ado About Nothing.

Theatre in the Forest is now East Anglia’s largest outdoor theatre event so perhaps it is no wonder The Independent voted as one of the Top 10 Events for Families and Children. Red Rose Chain’s artistic director Joanna Carrick said: “Audiences of all ages love the magic of Theatre In The Forest – it has a real festival feel and it’s such a fun way to see Shakespeare.”

Jimmy Doherty said: “We are so excited to have the fantastic Red Rose Chain theatre company return to the Farm. We know it will be another truly magical theatrical experience. The company’s reputation for providing the very best theatre is second to none.”

The cast include Fizz Waller as Beatrice and Jack Heydon as Claudio, who are joined by Ricky Oakley as Benedick and Oliver Cudbill as Don Pedro. Starring alongside them are Joanna Sawyer as Hero and Claire Lloyd as Leonata.

INFORMATION Box office: 01473 603388 www.theatreintheforest.com

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Suffolk Dog Day It’s always one of the best family days out of the summer and for those who haven’t been before Suffolk Dog Day is getting bigger and better every year.

Tim Holder talks to Essential Suffolk and explains why

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S U FFO L K D OG DAY

F

or the last 11 years, Suffolk Dog Day has held the top spot as the premiere date in the county’s canine calendar and it’s also the largest annual one-day charity event too. But this very special event, in the grounds of Helmingham Hall, is more than just about family entertainment, dogs and a day out – it’s about Suffolk helping those in need across the county.

Run by over 150 volunteers, Suffolk Dog Day has so far raised almost £500,000 – every penny of which has been spent helping smaller charities and people in need across the county. Tim Holder, the Foundation’s Head of Public Affairs, says “Suffolk Dog Day is all about dogs but what people don’t always realise is that it was created to help with some pretty serious issues facing people in our county on a daily basis – addiction, abuse, mental health issues, disability, deprivation, the list goes on. This year the event will be on July 29, but thanks to social media and the hashtag #LetSleepingDogsLie you can get involved with the event today.”

Last year’s Dog of The Decade, saw over 5,000 people get involved online by voting for their favourite top ten Suffolk breeds. This year, the organising committee want people to get involved through #LetSleepingDogsLie to raise awareness about helping vulnerable people in Suffolk. Tim explained, “We want people to post on social media and share their cutest pictures of their snoring schnauzer, dosing dachshund, or resting ridgeback.”

There are a whole range of prizes to be won too courtesy of Skinners, Ufford Park, Gladwell's Pet and County Store (see details on SuffolkDogDay.com). Tim says “Every dog

owner has a cute pic of their four-legged friend asleep and #LetSleepingDogsLie will get people sharing their furry favourites on their phones, tablets and computers. It costs nothing to post a pic up on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter but it will also raise awareness of the needs of people who need help here in Suffolk and help us celebrate a few heroes in the mix for all the great work they do. So enjoy a little dig through your photo libraries and share the cutest pictures and make sure you include #LetSleepingDogsLie”.

When it comes to the day itself Tim says, “It’s a day out for all the family, that’s what we aim for. The more serious dog lovers are catered for at one end of the scale with entire families and their pooches turning up in fancy dress at the other. One year I remember a family arriving on two legs and four dressed as the entire cast of The Wizard of Oz.”

“For anyone as ‘young’ as me, Peter is an absolute legend and you can see heads turn when people realise that there on the microphone is the chap who played a huge part in their lives as one of the most iconic BBC children’s TV presenters of all time. He’s also a dog expert having presented Crufts on TV for many years. We are so fortunate to have him in our Suffolk Dog Day family.”

Chair of Suffolk Dog Day Richard Cooper says, “This event is a wonderful community celebration about the really special relationship that Suffolk people have with their four-legged friends. You won’t find a happier place to be in Suffolk on July 29th and people come back year after year to enjoy the wonderful atmosphere. We hope over 6,000 people will join us again this year and hope to raise £65,000.”

Suffolk Dog Day promises great food and drink, music, a children’s play area, two show rings, dogs classes and breed parades that everyone can enter, dog agility and displays from various dog specialists and much more.

It’s also a great way to meet all sorts of breeds of dogs and expert breeders too – great if you’re looking for help to choose the right breed of dog for you.

“Of course the whole thing is made even more special because the host every year is legendary Blue Peter and Crufts presenter Peter Purves. Peter is one of our longest serving volunteers and he absolutely loves being a part of the team as much as we enjoy having him there.

INFORMATION If you want to find out more about Suffolk Dog Day there’s a brand new website that will answer many of your questions www.suffolkdogday.com. You can also enter this year’s #LetSleepingDogsLie competition and join in with pre and post event fun on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

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JU LY / AU GU ST 2018

Meet up Mondays Twitter – you either love it or hate it – but Anne Gould discovers how in 140 characters one Suffolk woman has promoted a campaign that could end loneliness across the county

Rebecca Cresta Photography

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M EE T U P MO NDAY S

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f you live in Suffolk, hang out on Twitter and support local charities, the likelihood is that before long you will come across @Annie_Osb. She’s best known in the offline world as Ann Osborn, the Director of Rural Coffee Caravan, a charity which helps to fight loneliness and the problems of rural isolation across the county. But she’s also a great online networker and it was through Twitter that one day in January she read about a campaign called #MeetUpMondays, that could go a long way to combating loneliness in our towns and villages.

Already more than 22 pubs and coffee shops across the county have signed up to Meet up Mondays in Suffolk, with more in the pipeline, but says Ann the original idea came from someone else. “There’s a publican – Mick Dore – from The Alexandra in London who started it all back in January, as he was fed up with reading about loneliness and decided to do something. He began offering a couple of hours of free tea, coffee and sandwiches on Monday lunchtimes encouraging those in the local area who were fed up with their own company to come along. It’s open to anyone – it might be someone who is a new mum, a home worker, out of work (for whatever reason) or an elderly person or couple who have started to feel isolated.”

Ann said she saw what Mick was doing, got in touch with him to find out more and then thought, “We can do this in Suffolk, so I started tweeting about it asking if anyone would like to give it a go.” As a result, she made contact with Sally Connick, the Good Neighbour Development Officer, for Community Action Suffolk and they started working together on Meet Up Mondays Suffolk. They now have a website, designed a logo, beer mats so people in the pubs and venues can find out information and have an ever-increasing number of Meet Ups across the county for people to attend. There’s even a new Twitter account too – @MeetUpMondaysSU – if you want to get in touch.

“The Co-op is also supporting us with tea bags which are being provided for nothing, which is brilliant. The beauty of Meet Up Mondays is that it’s so simple – offering hospitality is a small gesture but it has the potential to make a huge difference.” Ann says that the key part to Meet Up Mondays is that the meeting takes place in a pub or cafe that would be open anyway. What’s also important about it is that if people

make contact with others they can also make arrangements to go back to the venue at other times and not feel awkward or out of place.

“The reason that these meet ups are so important is that loneliness has been identified as being a real health risk and is as dangerous as smoking 15 cigarettes a day.”

What people don’t realise, she added, is that loneliness affects a wide range of people in the community and people of all ages too.

“I know there are already clubs and organisations who do marvellous work in villages to help with loneliness but the thing is you won’t be able to get a 25-year-old to go to an over 60s club. However it’s different in a place like a pub where people of all ages talk to each other.”

Ann says she’s been thrilled with the response and particularly from the early adopters like the Norman Warrier in Lowestoft, Weaver’s Tearoom in Peasenhall, The Bear at Beyton, The George in Hadleigh and the Boosh Bar in Bury St Edmunds. “What happens is that they open and at the start, there might be only a few people who come along but then slowly as the weeks go by and more people hear about it more and more people join.”

Sarah Shaw, the manager of The Greyhound pub in Ipswich said that they had been involved for about eight weeks now and there were 13 or so people who turned up each time. “It grows each week and we’ve got some people who live close by and who have never been in the pub who come along and others coming from the other side of town. Dogs are welcome too and we’ve seen some friendships being made as well which is wonderful.

“We meet up between 10am and 11.30am and we provide free tea and coffee and usually a member of staff will have made something at home like a cake or some sausage rolls to share as well. Sometimes people stay and chat afterwards and might have a drink or some lunch but it’s not about new customers, it's about welcoming people who feel alone.” Sarah said they were also thrilled to have been approached by the Red Rose Chain offering them free theatre tickets. “There were eight of us that went to the show and it was a fantastic outing. It was such a success that more outings are being planned.”

INFORMATION meetupmondays.wordpress.com

Top: Carmel from Clare Antiques Tearoom receiving her welcome pack Centre: Clare Antiques Tearoom Bottom: The Greyhound in Ipswich

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Essential explores...

Suffolk Coast & Heaths

The Suffolk Coast & Heaths Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is a simply stunning part of our county.

There’s plenty to see and do, so with the long summer holidays ahead here’s your Essential Guide to making the very most of what’s on offer

I

f you’re exploring Suffolk this summer the chances are that you’ll be heading, at some point, to the coast. And you’ll find plenty to please visitors of all ages, including your four legged family members. If you’re fit and able, why not leave the car at the first available stop and explore on foot? Or ditch it altogether and jump on a train or bus and take in the sights as you travel – maybe taking your bicycle along too? Shopping, eating, drinking, history, arts, music, nature and plenty of fresh sea air… let’s get going!

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SOUTHWOLD First on the list is Southwold – and it’s not all about the pier and the beach, lovely as they are. In fact Tim Hunkin’s ‘hand-built, utterly silly, totally potty machinery’ at the Under the Pier Show is worth the trip alone but there are plenty of other reasons that tourists flock to the town.

You can climb a lighthouse, take a brewery tour, explore the sandy dunes and harbour, even take to the water on the Southwold Coastal Voyager – which offers a range of trips including short local fun rides, trips to the seal and wind farm at Scroby Sands, a one way ticket to Dunwich beach, and a three and a half hour Blyth cruise taking you slowly through breath-taking scenery.

Of course there’s plenty of shopping, eating and drinking to be done too as the town is a vibrant hub packed with independent retailers.

E S S EN T IA L EX PL ORE S

WALBERSWICK

DUNWICH Cross the River Blyth from Southwold and you’re in the pretty village of Walberswick – famed for hosting the annual British Open Crabbing Championship from 1980 to 2010. It’s popular for rambling but with tearooms, galleries, pubs and a couple of shops as well, it’s a great destination for ‘ambling’ too!

Walkers are in their element at Dunwich. There are lots of paths to choose from but if you’re looking for inspiration just visit www.essentialsuffolk.co.uk/pub-walks-with-darcy as there are four different walks, complete with downloadable maps and instructions, to follow. Rest a while and refuel at either Dingle Hill Tearooms with delicious homemade scones and cakes or maybe some fine fish and chips and a pint of Adnams at The Ship Inn where families can also enjoy the beer garden. If you’re feeling energetic there’s a stunning circular walk from The Ship to The Crown in neighbouring Westleton, and back again. You’ll venture close to RSPB Minsmere where a short diversion will be endlessly rewarding plus of course The Crown is a perfect mid-point for refreshments.

From medieval times through to the twentieth century the village was a thriving port trading in cheese, bacon, corn, timber and, of course, fish. Since the Victorian era many artists have visited to Walberswick, notably including Charles Rennie Mackintosh and Philip Wilson Steer and the inspiration continues.

A little piece of paradise on the Suffolk Heritage Coast

A traditional coastal inn

Dingle Hill Tearooms is a family run business situated in the picturesque village of Dunwich. Dingle Hill values good quality, honest food sourced from local suppliers. All our scones, cakes, puddings & quiches are made on site by the very talented Amanda whilst our beautiful gardens are maintained by her husband, Nigel.

HISTORY-SOAKED BAR ROARING FIRES & LOCAL ALES | SEASONAL MENUS 16 COSY BEDROOMS

We truly are a ‘family’ business and welcome everyone including dogs, children and well behaved parents!

Sandy boots and muddy paws are welcome!

Open 7 days a week Monday to Friday 10am – 5pm, Saturday and Sunday 9am – 5pm (serving breakfast 9am – 11am) info@dinglehilltearooms.co.uk | www.dinglehilltearooms.co.uk

St James Street, Dunwich, Suffolk, IP17 3DT 01728 648219 | info@shipatdunwich.co.uk

Find us on Facebook, Twitter & Instagram

www.shipatdunwich.co.uk

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The Westleton Crown One of the best places to enjoy lunch on the Suffolk coast

Imaginative menus, Delicious children’s menu Fine wines, Terraced garden

The Street, Westleton, Suffolk, IP17 3AD 01728 648777 | info@westletoncrown.co.uk www.westletoncrown.co.uk

THORPENESS A truly traditional seaside destination, Thorpeness is a favourite with families in particular. The magic of the Meare endures with Peter Pan themed landing site names plus the little islands contain locations found in J M Barrie’s novel including ‘The Pirate’s Lair’ and ‘Wendy’s Island’. After some boating on the lake and the all-important ice creams discover the hidden depths of the surrounding landscape too – including the House in the Clouds, Thorpeness Windmill as well as the pretty black and white mock Tudor houses created back in the early twentieth century when Stuart Ogilvie bought the hamlet and set to transform it into a private fantasy holiday village.

TEA BY THE SEA The Hotel for all seasons

£19 at TheWentworth

FOR TWO COURSES

Dining out at the Wentworth can be exceptional value when you take advantage of our Special £19 offer.

Enjoy two courses (from our three course fixed price menu) in the relaxing restaurant for just £19.

Free wine – If your party is of four or more diners we’ll include a complimentary bottle of delicious House wine and if there are eight or more of you we’ll include two complimentary bottles of House wine for you to enjoy at the table.

Offer available 6.30pm – 9pm, Monday to Friday evenings inclusive.

To book your table please call 01728 452312 quoting ‘£19 offer’. wentworth-aldeburgh.com

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110 HI G H S T R E E T AL DE B UR G H S U F F O L K IP 1 5 5 A B T: 07813 552181

E S S EN T IA L EX PL ORE S

ALDEBURGH A stone’s throw, or more precisely a leisurely two mile walk along the coastal path from Thorpeness and you’ve reached Aldeburgh.

If you approach from the northern end you’ll first encounter Maggi Hambling’s iconic Scallop sculpture, secure and solitary among the shingle on the beach.

The town itself is perfect for enjoying some retail therapy and there are plenty of galleries to browse and gifts to buy. You won’t be short of food and drink options too, just beware of those seagulls of you’re planning on enjoying some alfresco fish and chips!

ORFORD It may be a small town but Orford is big on interest. The twelfth century castle was completed under the orders of Henry II and was an important landmark for guiding sailors into the once thriving port. Today it is maintained by English Heritage and as well as being an interesting visitor experience the grounds are perfect for picnics and play.

Possibly the best way to enjoy Orford Ness is via a river trip. The nature reserve sits on the largest shingle spit in Europe and was a crucial location in World War II for a number of top secret experiments.

Orford Castle photograph courtesy of Mark Seton

Breakfast, lunch, cream teas and snacks. Enjoy our home-cooked seasonal menu at

Enjoy homemade food freshly prepared.

From milkshakes to burgers, sandwiches to sausage rolls and delicious breakfasts and lunches.

The perfect place to refuel for a day at the beach.

Munchies 163-165 High Street Aldeburgh IP15 5AN 01728 454566 @AldeMunchies

Vintage Angels Beautiful vintage clothes for men and women. From Victorian, Edwardian, 40s, 50s, 60s, 70s & 80s.

Also designer brands and specialising in vintage fur coats.

Open: Wednesday to Sunday 11am – 5pm Hall Farm, Saxmundham Road Aldeburgh, IP15 5JD. T: 07879 630461 www.vintageangelsclothing.co.uk

Open 7 days a week

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THE PUG AND THE PUSSYCAT

Exquisite gifts and greetings cards

www.jolisuffolk.com 158 HI GH S TREE T AL D EBU RG H IP 15 5AQ 179 High Street Aldeburgh IP15 5AN T: 01728 452928 E: sales@thepugandthepussycat.co.uk

07771 623408

SLATE is a specialist cheese retailer and delicatessen with shops in the Suffolk seaside towns of Aldeburgh and Southwold. With welcoming and knowledgeable staff, both shops offer a carefully curated range of British and European artisan cheeses and a wonderful array of food and drink including lots of local produce.

138 High Street, Aldeburgh, T: 01728 454052 | 6 Victoria Street, Southwold, T: 01502 724318

www.slatecheese.co.uk

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E S S EN T IA L EX PL ORE S

Suffolk Coast & Heaths AONB is encouraging owners to ‘Help your dog be a Good Dog’

I’m a good dog!

National research shows that between a third and a half of countryside visitors have a dog with them. However, there are concerns about problems caused by a small minority of irresponsible owners to other people, sensitive wildlife and protected landscapes, including on the heaths. Uncontrolled dogs often (inadvertently) threaten wildlife or upset recreation for other people.

TOP TIPS It is best not to let your dog roam unsupervised, and always ‘Bag and Bin’ after your dog. Look out for ‘on the lead’ or other official signs – there is probably wildlife around that needs some 'quiet time', especially during nesting time from March to July. Rare birds such as nightjar, woodlark and stone curlew (for example) are well camouflaged and nest on the ground.

Quick Guide to a more enjoyable walk with your dog 1. Prepare for your day out. If you are heading out on a new route it might be useful to take a map. Keep a short, fixed lead with you in case you find an Open Access or other area with dog restrictions or a field where livestock are grazing. Don’t forget to bring water for your dog if you are taking a long walk.

2. Respect other walkers and their dogs. Some people feel uncomfortable when approached by dogs. Even if they are dog walking, their pet may not be as friendly or as confident as yours!

3. Please train your dog. It needs to come back to you when called, walk to heel and not pull on its lead.

4. Always remember to keep your dog on a lead when there is livestock nearby. Keep an eye out for signs that tell you when livestock are present, even if you cannot see animals. If you are chased by livestock let your dog off the lead. It is safer to let your dog run away and this could distract the animals from you. You can call your dog back once you have reached safety.

5. Play an active part in helping conservation. Many areas are important for wildlife. Keeping your dog on a lead on sensitive sites helps ground nesting birds. Please look out for signs with information about birds and other animals.

6. Please clear up after your dog! There are over 7.5 million dogs in the UK and they produce over 10,000 tonnes of faeces a week, enough to fill 4 Olympic sized swimming pools. Parasites from unwormed dogs can harm farm animals and children. The ‘I’m a Good Dog!’ campaign encourages dog owners to put dog mess in a biodegradable bag and bin it. Remember, plastic bags if left behind also harm the environment.

7. Be careful to watch where your dog goes. It can be very easy to lose sight of your pet. Making sure your dog can be easily identified makes it much easier to get it safely back home if it gets lost. Dogs should always have a collar with a disc showing their owner’s name and address.

8. Please follow instructions on signs. While you are out, you may come across a sign politely asking you to put your dog on a lead.

Please do so. What a great way of showing what a responsible dog owner you are!

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Essential SUFFOLK

always proud ~ to feature ~

LOCAL RETAILERS

Bohemian Chic dress £75 Sweet Dreams

Powder hat £28.95, sunglasses £28.95, jacket £45 The Pug & The Pussycat

Bohemian Chic Kimono £135 Sweet Dreams

TOTALLY TROPICAL It’s high summer and it’s not just the temperatures that are soaring, the prints are hot too! Hit the tropics with these stunning styles from independent Suffolk boutiques

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FASH I ON

Pomodoro tropical flower dress £79 Adams Apple Pomodoro pink floral top £60 Adams Apple

Pomodoro pink snake print dress £72 Adams Apple

Soaked in Luxury floral maxi dress £89.95 Laura Jane Boutique

Soaked in Luxury pink tropical print dress £89.95 Laura Jane Boutique Powder hat £19.95, kaftan £28.95 The Pug & The Pussycat

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T H E H E A RT O F WO O D B R I D G E

Specialising in Jersey & Knitwear YAYA | PART TWO | SOAKED IN LUXURY PERUZZI | SUZY D SUMMER COLLECTIONS NOW IN 89/91 Thoroughfare Woodbridge Suffolk IP12 1AW 01394 386686 laurajaneboutique.co.uk Situated at the end of the Thoroughfare, just over the traffic lights.

RE-OPENING JULY 2018 Summer collections now in. Summer sale bargains and incredible mid-season offers available.

70 Thoroughfare Woodbridge 01394 384685

@adamsappleofwoodbridge

Visit our new look shop now.

Check out our Facebook page for details of events and offers.

Tropical print maxi dress £38 Vintage Angels

Find your perfect fit at Sweet Dreams 45a Thoroughfare, Woodbridge | 01394 380306 Open 9.30 – 5 Monday to Saturday Yaya Jungle Flower print scarf £39.95 Laura Jane Boutique

FASH I ON

Part Two floral top £54.95 Laura Jane Boutique

Armedangels flower print dress £89 Joli Part Two floral pants £69.95 Laura Jane Boutique

Soaked in Luxury floral print pants £59.99 (matching top available) Laura Jane Boutique

Numph leaf print shirt £50 Joli

Eva Bohemian flower print bra £63, briefs £27 Sweet Dreams

STOCKISTS Adams Apple 70 Thoroughfare, Woodbridge. T: 01394 384685 Joli 158 High St, Aldeburgh. T: 07771 623408 Laura Jane Boutique 89/91 Thoroughfare, Woodbridge. T: 01394 386686 Pug & Pussycat 179 High Street, Aldeburgh. T: 01728 452928 and 1A Hamblin Rd, Woodbridge. T: 01394 380035 Sweet Dreams 45a Thoroughfare, Woodbridge. T: 01394 380306 Vintage Angels Hall Farm, Saxmundham Road, Aldeburgh. T: 07879 630461

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JULY / AUGUST 2018

H EA LT H

SUMMER SPORTS INJURY PREVENTION AND MANAGEMENT The long summer evenings and wealth of national and international sporting events entice many of us outdoors and into exercising regularly again. Hitting the pavement or track for a jog, the court for a match, or the football pitch without the correct preparation however can put a quick end to anyone’s enthusiasm.

Look after the most useful pieces of equipment you’re never without.

Your feet.

From athletics and fell-running to jogging and yomping, feet are vital pieces of kit, but they’re easily forgotten, and what’s forgotten is often neglected. While these hard-working parts of your body can withstand a lot of wear and tear, they’re not invincible.

BEFORE Choose your shoes Consider the terrain you’ll be running on, and make sure the shoe suits it. For track work you might need spikes, running on pavements and in parks suit a more standard shoe, while for going off-road or trail running through woodland you’ll need soles designed to grip a bit more.

Nail it Keep your toenails short, clean and cut straight across. Don’t be tempted to curve down the sides and ensure your shoes and socks aren’t too tight, as these can cause ingrown or discoloured nails.

If you’re already suffering, you could need medical treatment for ingrown nails before getting back to sport.

DURING Pay attention to pain If your hamstring started to hurt during sport, you’d stop, correct? Don’t treat feet any differently.

There are 26 bones in your foot and ankle, plus tendons, tissues, ligaments and muscles that keep you upright and dashing about.

If something doesn’t feel right, stop and seek advice.

Running on a foot injury can not only make it worse, but also cause problems elsewhere.

Favouring your left foot could unbalance you and cause pain on the other side of your body. Resting for a day or two is better than being off your feet for a month.

AFTER Wash up and dry up Spare a thought and a moment following your sport for your throbbing feet. Put socks in the wash basket

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rather than reusing them, and air out shoes.

Time and airflow will dry even wet shoes, so don’t put them on the radiator as they could become misshapen.

In the bath or shower, wash thoroughly and then dry between the toes. Apply moisturising cream or powder according to your usual routine, and embrace bare feet or breathable socks to keep feet cool.

Treat your feet For instant relief, rolling a tennis ball under your arch can help to alleviate tightness. Feet are highly specialised pieces of equipment, so treat them with care.

Warm up and cool down properly Preparing your body for a workout or running session is important to prevent injury and is almost as important as the exercise itself. A good warm up helps dilate the blood vessels ensuring muscles are well supplied with oxygen and raises body and muscle temperature for increased flexibility and efficiency. It also raises your heart rate to bring it up to your starting training rate, which minimises stress on your heart when you start.

Just as critically, the cool down after training keeps blood and oxygen flowing to muscles for optimal recovery.

Here are five tips: BEFORE 1. Active warm up This phase aims to elevate body temperature, heart rate, respiration rate, blood flow and joint fluid viscosity via low intensity activities. For example, jogging and star jumps elevate your heart rate.

2. Mobility drills Include these in your active warm ups to get a full range of motion to reduce the risk of injury. These include skipping drill, high knees and side step drills.

3. Heart rate increase To get your heart rate close to training/race speed, jog for a minute or two and slowly increase your speed to around your training or race speed.

calves. Stretch each one for around 30 seconds and repeat two or three times.

Overall, with all exercise, listen to your body.

If something is niggling, twinging, or just not feeling right, get it checked out.

What to do if you feel pain First stop: Seek advice from a physiotherapist.

Pain may be a signal that something isn’t right with your body. Always start by seeking medical advice from a physiotherapist or doctor if you are in pain.

Physiotherapy is proven to work for many types of conditions including back pain and joint and muscular pain. When a physio assesses you, they will attempt to identify the main factors driving your symptoms and come up with a strategy to help you manage these factors more effectively. They will guide you through the initial stages of your rehabilitation in order to maximise your recovery while minimising the risk of aggravating your symptoms.

Remember, don’t ignore pain and have it checked out by a physiotherapist or your GP. In almost all circumstances, some form of exercise is appropriate and will help reduce pain, improve tissue healing and support recovery.

The Physiotherapists at Nuffield Health Ipswich Hospital are a dynamic team who can offer treatment, guidance and support when you are suffering with pain. Specialties covered include problems with muscles, joints and bones, sports injuries, women’s health and one-to-one Pilates. All the team are trained in a Cognitive Behavioural Therapy approach to support those with chronic pain to help set realistic goals, exercise plane and progression of activity.

For details on how to find out more about the Physiotherapy services available at Nuffield Health Ipswich Hospital, contact us on 01473 279 179, or visit www.nuffieldhealth.com/physiotherapy/ ipswich.

AFTER 4. Walk/jog cool down Walk five to ten minutes once you have finished to slowly bring your heart rate down to resting and keep your muscles moving so they don't seize up.

5. Post-training stretching Focus on the key muscle groups i.e. quads, hamstrings and

This content is provided by Nuffield Health and was originally published on NuffieldHealth.com https://www.nuffieldhealth.com/article/

FI NA NCE

James Wright

PROTECTING YOURSELF FROM THE SCAMMERS James Wright, Independent Financial Adviser at Scrutton Bland, warns against some of the bogus schemes being used to defraud people into handing over their pensions details.

Independent Financial Adviser

is critical that you take a cautious approach and do your research before handing over any money.

“The high pressure sale” Scammers will often try to pressure their victims into transferring their pensions into fraudulent schemes through tempting offers which will ‘expire in 24 hours’, sometimes even sending a courier to wait at their victims house while they sign the documents. In these cases the old saying stands, ‘if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is”!

“The get rich quick scam” – The most common of swindles, the get rich quick scam will offer a quick way of raising cash, by for example, offering the victim the chance to invest in property such as an airport car parking space which can be rented out, but of course, no such space exists. Sometimes they can be ‘guaranteed’ property development schemes, urging the investor to buy into an investment which is unregulated, thus leaving the victim financially exposed.

“The friend of a friend who got rich” This scam is harder to avoid because we instinctively trust our friends to tell us the truth. But when dealing with your finances, it

What can you do to avoid the scammers?

If you are looking for help with your pension, investment or financial planning advice, then you should only ever use a regulated adviser

from a firm which is ideally Independent and Chartered and registered with the Financial Conduct Authority (www.fca.org.uk).

Don’t be afraid to ask for evidence of their credentials, fees and the measures they have in place to protect your investments.

At Scrutton Bland we recognise that pension advice is often intertwined with tax advice and have tax advisers on hand to assist in evaluating your overall needs. This thoroughness gives a depth of understanding which is hard to reach by taking separate tax and financial advice.

If you would like to find out more about Financial Planning Advice or have a particular issue you wish to discuss, contact James at james.wright@scruttonbland.co.uk or call 01473 267000 www.scruttonbland.co.uk

Scrutton Bland Financial Services Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

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Pub Walks

Sponsored by

with Darcy

www.christchurchvets.co.uk

Wolverstone Marina

6 7

School

8

Woolverstone Park

Part of the wonder of these walks is that there’s some surprisingly varied terrain as we cross farmland, follow woodland trails, river banks and quiet country lanes and tracks.

And don’t be fooled, there’s the odd climb too but always worth the effort for the views.

You might like to bring some binoculars along – the estuary is teeming with wildlife, so don’t forget to keep your four legged friend(s) under close control.

Make sure you plan your day well – the pub is open for food all day, breakfast is served from 9am so why not start your excursion with a hearty plateful over-looking the water? Returning for drinks, lunch and dinner are always an option as dogs are very welcome in the bar as well as the outdoors area. Before you set off make sure you visit www.essentialsuffolk.com/pub-walks-withdarcy for a fully downloadable map and instructions for each of the routes plus a combined map showing all three maps too.

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11/6

Park Cottages

Coastguard Cottages

3/72/8

9 10/5

There’s something about a river view that simply feeds the soul. Nestled on the banks of the Orwell, at the ancient smugglers haven of Pin Mill, The Butt & Oyster has an envious outlook. It’s the perfect spot to sit and watch the world go by but it’s also at the heart of some fine public footpaths. We’ve charted three routes in recent years, all shown on one map, here, for ease.

Riv

5

ll we Or er

We had enthusiastic response to the Sibton Pub Walks collection last month, so here’s another great location with a dog friendly pub and plenty of scenic walking to enjoy throughout the summer

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3

Start point 1 P for all routes

4

2 The Butt

2 3 PH

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CHELMONDISTON CH CHELMONDISTO CHELMONDIST CHELMONDIS CHELMONDI CHELMOND CHELMON CHELMO CHELM CHEL CHE

House

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& Oyster

Hill Farm

4

5 Clamp

Cliff Plantation

Dawns Covert

Alder Carr

The

Butt & Oyster

Photograph © Anthony Cullen

Pin Mill

the walks OS MAP for all three walks: Explorer 197 START POINT OS REFERENCE: 206 379 (public car park) As always please keep your dog under close control and follow any advisory signs. For a printable version of this and more than 60 previous walks go to: www.essentialsuffolk.com/dog-walks where you will also find more pictures of each walk route.

Always check the map before setting off.

ROUTE 1

Purple Route

The longest of the tree routes at approximately three miles this first walk takes you west towards Woolverstone Marina then climbing through the woods past Woolverstone Hall (home to Ipswich High School) before revealing one of the prettiest churches – St Michael and All Angels. The sweep back down towards the river affords some truly stunning views year round.

Please be aware that there are some stiles to negotiate on this route. If you’re following the combined map please take care to only follow the PURPLE numbers.

ROUTE 2

Blue Route

As we set off along the river bank we’re soon taking a woodland path, peeping through the foliage to spy the river views as though in perfect natural picture frames. This walk is just a couple of miles with a short steep slope and a few steps too. If you’re following the combined map please take care to only follow the BLUE numbers.

ROUTE 3

Red Route

Our third route is the shortest of three at approximately 1.5 miles so perfect for those looking for a shorter stroll without missing out on the landscapes. We think we get the best of the views by following clockwise but there’s always fun to be had by retracing the steps of any walk in the other direction for a totally different experience. If you’re following the combined map please take care to only follow the RED numbers.

Situated in the hamlet of Pin Mill on the River Orwell The Butt & Oyster is one of the best known public houses in Suffolk renowned for its good beer, good food and great views.

The Butt and Oyster is a fantastic pub with a welcoming and traditional atmosphere. With or without a dog it is a great start or finishing point for beautiful walks that take in amazing scenery.

Let the sounds of the Orwell seduce you. Watch the changing tides on traditional timeless shores. Understand an artist's inspiration with Thames barges, swans and the river, enjoying the finest Suffolk ales whilst being tempted by the wonderful aromas which welcome you.

Our menu offers a wonderful selection of dishes prepared with love from the best local ingredients where practical.

The menu include honest ‘pub grub’ alongside more contemporary dishes, all freshly prepared and presented by friendly, efficient staff. There will always be seasonal specials which you can discover on our blackboards on the day.

You’re now able to make an online reservation request.

We’ll get back to you either by email or phone to confirm your booking or to arrange an available time.

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner, seven days a week from 9am.

See our website for details of our menu.

Pin Mill, Ipswich, Suffolk, IP9 1JW 01473 780764 www.debeninns.co.uk/buttandoyster buttandoyster@debeninns.co.uk Get the Deben Inns App for our latest news and offers.

Simply search Deben inns in the app store and follow the simple instructions.

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FIRST CLASS HOSPITALITY The Randolph at Reydon has been welcoming guests for more than 100 years but is securely anchored in the twenty first century. Lesley Rawlinson discovers the changing face of this charming hotel

crossed with a myriad of paths tantalisingly inviting walkers and nature lovers to discover Suffolk’s wildlife in close up. And thirdly Reydon is the home of one of the most welcoming small hotels we’ve discovered to date – The Randolph.

I

f I asked you if you fancied a short break in Reydon, I wouldn’t be too surprised if you wanted to check your map first.

However, this Suffolk village is probably the absolute reason for the creation of the term ‘best kept secret’ (which, let’s face it, is an often over-used cliché) but Reydon really is exactly that – an understated location with plenty to offer.

So what’s so special about Reydon? Firstly it’s the gateway to Southwold – literally. The village abuts the famed coastal town, dubbed Chelsea-upon-sea, and all that comes with it; a bustling centre crammed with independent shops and galleries, the beach with its incredible pier, sandy dunes and colourful beach huts plus of course the iconic lighthouse not to mention Adnams brewery.

I could go on. Secondly, even closer than Southwold are the simply stunning reed beds along the Blyth Estuary and Buss Creek, criss-

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Built by Adnams back in 1899 it was originally described as “a first class hotel, charmingly situated within ten minutes’ walk of Southwold” and current lease-holders, Jenny and Gareth Knights, are continuing with exactly that ethos. “We pride ourselves in personal service and quality” says Jenny “we want our guests to have a thoroughly enjoyable stay and to come back again and again”. And even though they’ve been at the helm for barely a year the couple are already making their mark.

On our recent visit the exterior was swathed in scaffolding as exterior decorating was the latest task to be undertaken in an ongoing refurbishment programme. I say the latest job as the hotel has already seen some considerable improvements. The majority of the ground floor is given over to a bright airy bar and adjoining restaurant space which can be cleverly partitioned giving plenty of flexibility. This was phase one and there’s a cool, calm coastal air with shades of the sea, nautical influences in the décor and natural materials all adding to the vibe.

There are ten en-suite bedrooms, across two floors, all accessed via the main central staircase. The rooms are also part of the refurbishment programme and after checking

in we discovered we were staying in one that had already been completed. The fresh, coastal theme has been carried through to the rooms with great care and some charming touches. I particularly liked the broad wooden headboard, complete with Randolph branding, that stretched the width of the bed and bedside units and fitted with ships’ lamps. There are, of course, all the extras one might expect of a comfortable hotel room too – digital flat screen TV, tea and coffee making facilities (including homemade shortbread) and hairdryer.

However the bathroom was even more impressive. I particularly liked the choice of duck egg blue tiles with a highly glazed finish that perfectly complemented the antique style claw-foot bath tub as well as the sleek, ultra-modern sink and shower units – complete with rainfall shower. Another much appreciated touch was the inclusion of complementary Duck Island toiletries, reassuringly environmentally friendly in refillable bottles.

There was time for a stroll before dinner so we headed out to test the afore-mentioned claims and, with the help of modern GPS technology, I clocked Southwold Pier at exactly one mile from the door – spot on.

After some modest evening sight-seeing we headed back for our evening meal. Chef Patron Gareth has enviable Suffolk credentials as former Head Chef at a two AA Rosette Award winning pub and having also worked as Sous and Senior Sous Chef at both Adnams’ Crown and Swan hotels. His

S H O RT B RE AK RE V IE W | T HE R AN DO LP H

reputation goes before him and we weren’t disappointed. Provenance, seasonality and creativity are his watchwords and shine through at every opportunity.

My husband chose a starter of pork shoulder croquette, served with roast potato, apple sauce, carrot and crackling – all the sumptuous flavours of a Sunday roast in miniature, including a dear little baby roast apple and he was simply delighted.

Meanwhile I was equally pleased with my choice of ginger and soy marinated king prawns, Asian slaw, spring onions and crispy wonton strips that added to the yummy, crunchy textures. Full marks so far.

of ten. Unsurprisingly after all that indulgence we skipped dessert but it was still light enough, and warm enough, to enjoy a drink outside in the garden before retiring for a good night’s sleep.

Next morning we were among the early birds at breakfast which is served from 8am and there’s an inviting menu to choose from.

In an effort to make a ‘lighter’ choice we decided to go for smoked salmon and scrambled eggs, served on an English muffin rather than the Full English but our option was just as substantial! I’m always amazed too when chefs make something as ordinary as scrambled eggs taste so delicious, I wish I knew their secret – or is it just that one’s

away from home and enjoying the fact that someone else will be washing up? Either way we were once again impressed and leaving this dear little hotel – with its friendly welcoming smiles, easy manor and tip top standards – I was keen to get tapping on the keys of my trusty laptop and share this little wonder with you.

INFORMATION The Randolph Hotel, Wangford Road Reydon, Suffolk, IP18 6PZ 01502 723603 reception@therandolph.co.uk www.therandolph.co.uk

We were feeling more traditional when it came to our main courses. After our seaside stroll I was in fish and chips mood – Adnams beer battered haddock with hand cut chips and tartare – right up my street – and although listed as accompanied by mushy peas which I’m not keen on, these were graciously swapped for a crispy side salad.

Incidentally I also tried a bottle of Adnams Ghost Ship 0.5% alcohol. I’m not usually too taken with non/low alcohol beers but I’d definitely order this one again. The flavour is very close (by my palate) to the usual strength version and didn’t feel like too much of a compromise.

Back to the food and Mr R opted for the 8oz Emmerdale Farm sirloin steak – the farm is just minutes down the road at Darsham – served with all the usual extras including a creamy peppercorn sauce. Another ten out

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EAST MEETS WEST Looking for a country pub experience with a difference? The Turks Head at Hasketon could be the answer.

Lesley Rawlinson reports

D

riving through the leafy lanes on our way to the Turks Head the in-car conversation went something like this: Me: “So how long has the Turks Head been open now?” Mr R: “Well it must be at least three years if not four?” Me: “Surely longer – maybe five this autumn?” As it turns out the doors re-opened just two and half years ago (in November 2015 to be precise) and it has so cleverly slipped into our psyche as a tried, trusted and popular destination that we’re almost taking for granted the incredible turn around that’s been achieved.

Jemima’s background in interior design it’s no surprise that the entire environment – inside and out – is harmonious and inviting.

Firstly take a look at our choices of starter; I was immediately seduced by a tian of feta and paneer with lotus seed popcorn and mint yoghurt relish. If you, like me, can never have too much cheese then this is the starter for you. The cheeses are perfect partners and the zingy accompaniments bring out the flavours even further. My husband chose an equally exotic dish of spicy Suffolk billy goat, millet kichadi and pickled chillies. A far sweeter flavour and just as delicious with tender chunks of goat teamed with minced cuts too, served on the millet base – ingenious.

Cast your minds back a few short years and the Turks Head was yet another casualty of the declining village pub trade. Establishments that were first and foremost about ‘drinking’ were falling by the wayside and in some parts of the country that’s still the case, however in Suffolk it seems there are many entrepreneurial minds ready to see opportunities where others have only seen a closed sign.

In this particular case the individuals with the ideas – and the energy – are husband and wife team Jemima and Dominic Withey.

They’ve sympathetically transformed the pub and while the main bar and adjoining ‘snug’ still have that cosy country pub feel, that we all tend to love, the restaurant is a much airier affair, yet crammed with character. The art adorning the walls and the sculpture in the garden, is all from local artists and with

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Part of the Turks Head’s uniqueness, for me, is their ‘east meets west’ menu – the brainchild of Head Chef Chandramauli (Mauli) Dwivedi. Originally from India where he trained in classic French cuisine, his truly international twists on seasonal Suffolk produce are intriguing as well as enticing.

That said you can easily enjoy traditional fish and chips or a 28 day hung Suffolk steak but, if you prefer, there’s an interesting array of starters and mains with Mauli’s trademark flavours to enjoy.

So, back to the leafy lanes. Hasketon is located just off the A12, a short distance from Woodbridge, and the pub itself is nestled in a quiet lane with views of the surrounding countryside from the garden and patio. It was such a warm evening that we decided to take up a table outdoors, enjoying the low sun and pretty scenery.

But if Indian flavours aren’t your thing don’t be put off. We could have happily chosen from new season Cromer crab salad, buttered local asparagus with parmesan, Blythburgh pork belly with tangy apple or even crayfish and salmon terrine with Tide Mill toast – all perfectly suited for a summer evening supper.

D I NI N G R E VIE W | TH E T U RKS HE A D

I have never known my husband to choose a vegetarian main course but on this occasion he came exceptionally close. The temptation came in the form of roasted beetroot and celeriac lasagne. This interesting combination is accompanied by another little used vegetable – salsify – served as chips. But he resisted and instead opted for pan fried spiced halibut served with south Indian lentil stew, tiger prawns and coconut chutney.

Clearly another creation straight from Mauli’s Asian roots and he really knows how to let the flavours blend and sing without overpowering each other.

After being wooed by the thought of Gressingham duck breast or Sutton Hoo chicken I did in fact go for a vegetarian

option; risotto primavera with asparagus, peas, samphire, and parmesan salad and wow, what a dish. Heavenly early summer flavours combined in a light, creamy risotto – married with a glass of crisp pinot grigio, this was the ideal al fresco choice.

I don’t often get excited by puds but I must make special mention of the Turks Head’s banoffee pie. There’s a loose biscuit base, topped with caramel and clotted cream but the crowning glory is the caramelised bananas.

Let’s face it – in a world where extra calories need to fight for their right to be ordered this is a knock-out combination. Mr R seemed equally pleased with his gooey, dark chocolate fondant served with cherries in kirsch which he claimed were one of his ‘five a day’…

INFORMATION The Turks Head, Low Road Hasketon, Woodbridge, IP13 6JG 01394 610343 info@theturksheadhasketon.co.uk www.theturksheadhasketon.co.uk

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JULY / AUGUST 2018

ALL ABOUT THE BASS Luke Bailey, Head Chef at Seckford Hall shares his seabass recipe, ideal for a summer dinner party

Luke has a solid Suffolk pedigree having worked at a number of leading Suffolk venues including Adnams Hotels, The Crown and Castle in Orford and The Crown at Woodbridge. He’s a passionate supporter of Suffolk food, and you’ll often find him foraging for ingredients on Suffolk’s river banks and woodlands. He is also Suffolk’s ambassador for the Jamie Oliver Foundation which promotes healthy eating in schools which he teaches at Farlingaye High School in Woodbridge.

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C H E F’ S R EC I PE | S E C K FO RD HA L L

Wild Seabass Fillet, Salt Cod Brandade Fritter, Saffron Aioli, Local Samphire INGREDIENTS Serves four

METHOD

1 large seabass fillet, scaled, filleted and pin-boned (ask your fishmonger to do this for you) and cut into 4 portions approximately 160g – 180g each

To make the Saffron Aioli

Local samphire – available in most supermarkets or picked from our local riverbanks and estuaries such as Woodbridge, Walberswick and Orford to name a few, but please leave some for everyone, don’t be too greedy!

1. Whisk the egg yolks in a bowl with a pinch of salt, add the lemon juice, Dijon mustard, white wine vinegar and saffron and whisk until smooth.

2. Continue to whisk while adding the oil slowly, drop by drop, to begin with. Once the mixture begins to thicken, add the remaining oil in a slow, steady stream.

3. When all the oil has been added, add the crushed garlic, season and set aside.

Wild garlic or chive flowers to garnish

To make the Salt Cod Fritter

For the Saffron Aioli ½ bulb garlic (roasted) ½ clove raw garlic 3 egg yolks 1 egg white 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard Small pinch of powdered saffron A few drops of lemon juice 350ml olive oil (not extra virgin)

1. Soak the salt cod in water for 24 hours, changing the water a couple of times.

2. Place the salt cod in a large saucepan and cover with milk, add bay leaves, peppercorns and lemon rind then gently bring to the boil and simmer until cod is cooked through, approximately 15 to 20 minutes.

3. Strain the fish out of the milk and place the fish in a food mixer to beat into a rough paste (alternatively you can just flake it by hand into small pieces). Make sure there are no bones or skin.

4. Season with a little lemon juice and salt and pepper.

5. Combine the poached cod, potato, onion and parsley, seasoning with salt and pepper to your taste. Mould into small long shapes and coat first in flour, then the beaten egg and finally breadcrumbs. (To make these, tear up bread into small pieces and slowly add to a food blender while pulsing until finely ground). Leave in the fridge until ready to fry.

For the Salt Cod Fritter 600g/ fillet salt cod 2 pints milk 2 bay leaves 10 peppercorns Rind of 1 lemon Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper Zest and juice of 1 lemon 1 large potato, preferably Desiree, boiled and gently mashed 1/4 finely diced small red onion 1/2 small bunch parsley, finely chopped Plain flour 2 eggs (beaten) Fresh breadcrumbs, preferably sourdough Enough vegetable oil to fry or use a deep fat fryer

For the Seabass 1. Season the seabass 20 minutes before you cook with a little Maldon sea salt.

2. Pan fry skin side down in a little rapeseed oil to give it a nutty flavour, cook on a medium heat in a non-stick pan until 80% cooked then flip it over and finish with a knob of butter and baste until the fish is just cooked and skin is crisp and take out onto a resting tray.

3. Add your prepared samphire to the pan and soften then also take out and discard the pan.

4. Cook your fritter in vegetable oil until golden and crisp.

5. To assemble your dish, combine your fish, aioli, samphire and fritter and dress with wild garlic or chive flowers and a little olive oil as shown in the photograph.

E xperience the Tradition, History and Good Taste at 1530 1530 at Seckford Hall is a relaxed, stylish and comfortable restaurant, full of character but unpretentious. With a team of talented chefs, only serving the freshest food, 1530 is an award-winning restaurant offering breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner.

Relax in the charming ambience of the restaurant or dine alfresco in the stunning grounds of Seckford Hall, a historic treasure in Suffolk set in 34 acres of breath-taking grounds and walled gardens with meandering walks and a beautiful lake. Enjoy Sundays at Seckford with a programme of live music throughout the summer.

Woodbridge, Suffolk, IP13 6NU 01394 385678 reception@seckford.co.uk www.seckford.co.uk For Moments that Matter

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JU LY / AU GU ST 2018

FIRM FAVOURITE Would the Sibton White Horse hold up its award winning reputation?

Lesley Rawlinson finds out

drink on offer in high esteem and I didn’t want that bubble to burst! What’s more my husband (and frequently my reviewing partner), who is equally a fan, was otherwise engaged on the night in question so I was relying on the verdict of a trusted foodie friend, for whom the White Horse was new territory.

I

’m a Radio 2 listener – there – I said it out loud. So what? Well, if you ever listen to the Chris Evans Breakfast Show you might be familiar with his weekly feature ‘Great Job Wednesdays’. No? Well, basically he invites listeners to declare that they have the greatest job in the world; you know chocolate tasters, penguin keepers, roller coaster designers, bed testers… you get the picture. And I’m tempted to call in.

Let’s face it, my job includes walking to pretty country pubs with my dog Darcy, meeting happy people at Suffolk events like fashion shows and wine tastings and, of course, dining reviews.

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As I often joke to friends when they ask what I do, “it’s a tough job but someone has to do it”, but to be honest that’s tinged with a touch of reality because there’s always the possibility that however well we know a venue, or however good previous visits have been, a favourite might not live up to its former reputation. There’s always good reason for returning – to bring our readers up to date with what’s new and different – but there’s always a risk too. I have to admit, it was with this slight trepidation that I was heading to the Sibton White Horse for our latest review. I’ve always held the welcome, the ambience and of course the food and

I have no idea why I let myself worry about these things – we couldn’t be in safer hands.

Neil and Gill Mason have been running the Sibton White Horse now for thirteen years and they clearly have a winning formula.

You can’t be successful in their line of business without passion, without really caring about the customer experience – regular or first time visitor – and without caring that your staff are happy and well looked-after too. There’s nothing manufactured about this rural gem as Neil explained, “we searched for a full year for the right pub for us. It was tired and neglected but had a good location, huge character and oozed potential. The under loved White Horse deserved rescuing and re-establishing and we’re delighted to have restored faith in a truly great old English pub.”

It’s been described as a “cosy country gastroboozer” and I think that’s a really fitting label.

The atmosphere is very relaxed yet the service is tip top. You’re as welcome pulling up a stool at the bar as you are dining and throughout the summer the courtyard garden with its covered terrace, festooned with hanging baskets, is the perfect place to relax.

D I NI N G R E VIE W | S IB TO N W H I TE HO RSE

I take my job very seriously and I would have been doing you a disservice if we’d skipped dessert. I had a feeling this was going to be the killer blow when I reported back to my husband later as he’s enjoyed many a good pud at Sibton. It’s a measure of the inventiveness in the kitchen that both Mrs L and I went for sweet options over cheese.

We’re both cheesaholics on the quiet but she was quick to choose the coconut panna cotta with mango and chilli salsa, burnt coconut and mango sorbet while I had a slightly altered version of the dark chocolate delice.

It is intended to be enjoyed with hazelnut cream, yoghurt sorbet and toasted hazelnuts, but I can’t eat nuts and so a ‘clean’ but still incredibly indulgent version was created for me, and appeared to be absolutely no trouble at all. Wow – I was beaten, the intense delice was incredibly rich but very, very satisfying.

I was pleased to see a familiar, smiling face waiting on our table (more affirmation of the consistently high standards when your staff stay with you for years). With one glance at the menu and specials on the board I was immediately reminded that head chef Tom Greening is a great believer in chefs cooking the food they love. He doesn’t create over complicated dishes instead he lets fresh, home-cooked food be the champion and he clearly inspires his team too. My friend was quick to point out too that the vegetarian options were listed fist under the ‘mains’; a clear indication that these were as respected and well thought out as the other choices.

We were both feeling pretty peckish so we dived straight in with our menu choices.

Mrs L started with hot kilned smoked salmon which was served with fennel, orange and pickled cucumber. The delicate flavours and textures of this very pretty dish were deliciously interwoven and I could see she was ‘on-side’ from the off. I made an unusual choice for me – chicken and leek ballotine with pickled radish. I definitely favour this over a pâté; by boning and pressing the meat before cooking it’s a much lighter option but still has plenty of flavour.

perfectly tender lamb, complementary flavours, I’d order it again” – another winner.

I was tempted by one of the specials. When I’m eating out with Mr R he often chooses pork and, as we’re always looking to try a good variety of dishes (all in your interests dear reader), I rarely get a look in. Metfield T-bone pork steak with hasselback new potatoes, roasted shallots and local asparagus – all served with grain mustard sauce – had my name written all over it. The ultimate test of their ‘honest, fresh, tasty and satisfying’ claims and it was spot on. Succulent pork, melt in the mouth potatoes, fresh and flavoursome asparagus – all very impressive and enjoyable.

I have a feeling this won’t be my friend’s only visit to The White Horse. As we said our goodbyes she was enquiring about the overnight accommodation and whether the dog was welcome in the bar… more ticks and I haven’t even told her about the summer barbecues yet!

INFORMATION The Sibton White Horse Inn Halesworth Road, Sibton, Nr Saxmundham, Suffolk. IP17 2JJ 01728 660337 info@sibtonwhitehorseinn.co.uk www.sibtonwhitenhorseinn.co.uk Summer Barbecues run every Friday from July 6, from 6pm.

To follow her salmon starter my dining companion chose loin of Suffolk lamb. “I like to enjoy dishes that I wouldn’t necessarily cook at home” was her reasoning and as it was served with parmentier potatoes, courgette, carrot, black olives and sauce vierge every promised flavour was ticking her boxes too. The verdict? “Clever presentation,

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JU LY / AU GU ST 2018

The Middleton Bell

Butt & Oyster

The Eels Foot

Set in the beautiful village of Middleton the Bell Inn offers top quality food using the best local produce. Now under new ownership by the successful team from The Eels Foot Inn. Dine in the garden, traditional bar area or beamed restaurant and enjoy home cooked food and ales directly from the cask.

The Bell is the perfect venue to meet friends and family.

The Butt & Oyster is one of the best known public houses in Suffolk renowned for its good beer, good food and great views.

As you eat watch the changing tides on traditional timeless shores. Understand an artist’s inspiration with Thames barges, swans and the river, enjoying the finest Suffolk ales whilst being tempted by the wonderful aromas which welcome you.

Breakfast, lunch and dinner, seven days a week from 9am. See our website for details of our menus.

Enjoy delicious food and drink in a welcoming and relaxed atmosphere at the award winning Eels Foot inn located in the pretty hamlet of Eastbridge. The extensive beer garden offers a children’s play area and a wood fired pizza oven available Sat – Sun 12:00 – 20:00. The Inn has six rooms and is a certified location with The Caravan and Motorhome Club. With freshwater marshes and scenic countryside leading directly to the sea The Eels Foot is a great place to stay.

Open: 12pm – 3pm, 6pm – 11pm, Tuesday to Saturday, 12pm – 9pm, Sunday (Food served 12pm – 2.30pm, 6pm – 9pm, Tuesday to Saturday, 12pm – 5pm, Sunday).

Booking advised.

Open: 7 days a week 9am – 11pm Food served 9am – 9.30pm daily

The Bell Inn, The Street, Middleton, Suffolk, IP17 3NN

Butt & Oyster, Pin Mill, Ipswich, Suffolk, IP9 1JW

Eels Foot Inn, Eastbridge, Leiston, Suffolk, IP16 4SN

01728 648286

01473 780764 buttandoyster@debeninns.co.uk www.debeninns.co.uk

01728 830154 theeelsfootinn@hotmail.co.uk theeelsfootinn.co.uk

The Coach & Horses

The Fountain

Sibton White Horse

The Coach & Horses located just outside of Woodbridge, has extremely good access to the A12 with ample parking. Originally a staging inn or coach house, it’s historical role is equally well served today providing great family food. We offer a great combination of quality, value and atmosphere that the Deben Inns are renowned for. Breakfast, lunch and dinner, seven days a week from 9am. See our website for details of our menus.

Located in the lovely old village of Tuddenham St Martin, three miles north of Ipswich, informal bistro style restaurant set in an oldie worldy 16th century country pub with great food, great service and great value. Full A La Carte menu plus set price menus; two courses £14.95, three courses £17.95. Current specials always included on the website. Sunday lunch served 12 noon to 7pm. Covered heated patio and spacious beer garden.

Open: 7 days a week 9am – 11pm Food served 9am – 9.30pm daily

Open: Monday to Friday, 12 noon – 2pm and 6pm to 9pm. Saturday, 12 noon – 2pm and 6pm to 9.30pm. Sunday, 12pm – 7pm

Situated in the pretty Suffolk Village of Sibton, this beautiful 16th-century pub has a wealth of charm and an abundance of character. Enjoy delicious food in a relaxed atmosphere in the bar or restaurant areas or indulge in some of the finest alfresco food in the picturesque courtyard. Recently awarded 2 AA Rosettes, the food at the Sibton White Horse is freshly prepared using the local fresh and seasonal ingredients from Suffolk producers and from the pubs very own kitchen garden.

The Coach & Horses, Melton, Woodbridge, Suffolk, IP12 1PD

The Fountain, The Street, Tuddenham St. Martin, Suffolk, IP6 9BT

Sibton White Horse, Halesworth Road, Sibton, Nr. Saxmundham, Suffolk, IP17 2JJ

01394 384851 coachandhorses@debeninns.co.uk www.debeninns.co.uk

01473 785377 fountainpub@btconnect.com www.tuddenhamfountain.co.uk

01728 660337 info@sibtonwhitehorseinn.co.uk www.sibtonwhitehorseinn.co.uk

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Open: Monday to Thursday 12pm – 3pm, 6pm – 11pm, Friday to Sunday 11:30am – 11:30pm (Food served Monday to Thursday 12pm – 2.30pm, 6pm – 9.pm Friday to Sunday 12pm – 9pm)

Open: Food served lunchtimes 12 – 2pm each day (2.30 on Sunday). Evenings 6.30 – 9pm Mon to Sat, 7.00 – 8.30pm Sunday

FO O D G A LL E RY

The Fox Imagine a chocolate box style village pub, beaming with pinkness, beautiful tranquil gardens and flowers around the door.

Add a loyal and friendly clientele and great food and you’ll wish you had discovered us sooner. Fine locally sourced food is offered for breakfast, lunch and dinner, seven days a week from 9am and this is complemented by an ever changing range of guest ales and wines. See our website for details of our menus.

Open: 7 days a week 9am – 11pm Food served 9am – 9.30pm daily

The Artisan Smokehouse Café & Deli

Set in the lovely village of Falkenham, near Felixstowe, with wonderful countryside views.

Join us in our licensed café, where all the smoked foods are hand-made on site. Enjoy breakfast, coffee & cake, and light meals including smoked meat and fish platters, cheese boards, sandwiches and salads.

While you’re here why not grab something to take home from our deli, which stocks a wide range of products, including our own award-winning smoked foods.

Open: Thursday to Saturday, 10am – 4pm.

Please see website for variations in opening.

Food served all day – breakfast until 11.30am

Fynn Valley Winner of the ‘Most Welcoming Golf Club’ in England award this is the place to bring your family and friends for a wide range of tempting meals prepared by our talented chefs. Enjoy a home made bar meal or daily special in the cosy Courtyard Bar, utilising great local produce. Al fresco dining in the sheltered Courtyard is a popular option.

Sunday Lunches are served in The Terrace overlooking the golf course, all freshly roasted on the day – enjoy one course for £9.95. The spacious Valley Room is perfect for large family celebrations. Full details of our menus and offers can be found on our website.

Open: Open daily.

The Fox, The Street, Newbourne, Woodbridge, Suffolk, IP12 4NY

The Artisan Smokehouse, Goose Barn, Back Road, Falkenham, Suffolk, IP10 0QR

Fynn Valley Golf Club, Witnesham, Ipswich, Suffolk, IP6 9JA

01473 736307 fox@debeninns.co.uk www.debeninns.co.uk

01394 448414 info@artisansmokehouse.co.uk www.artisansmokehouse.co.uk

01473 785202 restaurant@fynn-valley.co.uk www.fynn-valley.co.uk

Ufford Park

The Randolph

Seckford Hall

Open every day, The Park Restaurant offers a relaxed atmosphere, local produce and a seasonally-changing menu. You can enjoy Sunday Lunch in both the restaurant and bar and this is priced accordingly. Join us on Sunday 29th July and sit back and relax with local saxophonist playing between 12 noon and 2pm. Afternoon Tea is served throughout the year and this is priced at just £16.95 per person. Booking is essential.All party sizes can be accommodated. Open to all; non-members welcome.

Located in the heart of the peaceful village of Reydon, just a 15 minute stroll from Britain’s quintessential seaside town of Southwold; The Randolph provides the perfect base for exploring the heritage coast and offers a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.

NEW! Week Day Warmer: Every Monday to Friday Lunch 12 noon – 2pm 2 courses and a drink* – £15 per person 3 courses and a drink* – £17.50 per person (*Soft drink, 125ml house wine or ½ pint draught beer. Menu options change weekly)

1530 Restaurant

Satisfy your appetite for all things foodie with a visit to 1530 at Seckford Hall. Far from humdrum, the menu is an exciting mix of the finest seasonal flavours. Hearty yet elegant, nibbles can be enjoyed alongside perfectly matched tipples, with views over gorgeous gardens. The seamless fusion of old and new offers the perfect setting for intimate dining with a modern, eclectic twist.

Open: Lunch from 12pm – 6pm, Afternoon Tea from 3pm – 5pm, Dinner from 6.30pm – 9.30pm (10pm Friday and Saturday).

Open: Monday to Sunday 6.30pm – 9.30pm.

Sunday Lunch in The Park Restaurant served 12 noon – 4pm

Open: 11am – 11pm, 7 days a week. Food served 12pm – 2pm and 6.30pm – 9pm.

Ufford Park, Yarmouth Road, Melton, Woodbridge, Suffolk, IP12 1QW

The Randolph, 41 Wangford Road, Reydon, Southwold, Suffolk, IP18 6PZ

Seckford Hall Hotel, Woodbridge Suffolk, IP13 6NU

0844 847 9467 reception@uffordpark.co.uk www.uffordpark.co.uk

01502 723603 reception@therandolph.co.uk www.therandolph.co.uk

01394 385678 reception@seckford.co.uk www.seckford.co.uk

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SIX OF THE BEST FARM SHOPS

The Deli & Café

Friday Street Farm

The Deli is brimming with specialities from far and wide and we have a passion for all things delicious. A superb selection of cheeses, olives, homemade scones, pies and pastries plus delicious chutneys, pickles and other accompaniments including local free range eggs. The licensed café is open daily and sample menus can be found on our website – don’t miss our famous all-day full English breakfast!

Proud holders of the Trip Advisor Certificate of Excellence.

Opening times: Mon to Sat 9am – 5pm, Sunday 10am – 4pm

Established in 1976 by the Blyth family, Friday Street Farm Shop offers a fantastic range of foods, including home grown and locally produced fruit & Vegetables, complimented by unusual artisan ranges from further afield. The butchery is famous for its finest local meats and run by master butcher Ian and his team The Cafe/Restaurant is known for its extensive menu of home cooked and locally sourced foods, a permanent on site Fishmonger and seasonal Pick Your Own (P.Y.O.) soft fruit.

Chilli Farm, Norwich Road, Mendlesham, Stowmarket, Suffolk, IP14 5NQ 01449 766344 www.delicafeatchillifarm.co.uk

Friday Street, Farnham, Saxmundham, IP17 1JX 01728 602783 www.fridaystfarm.co.uk

Good, Honest Local Food Since 2001

Kiln Farm Nursery

The shop stocks all the local ingredients we use in the farm cafe – fresh vegetables delivered daily, local meat, poultry and free range golden yolked eggs, a large selection of jams, chutneys, sauces, biscuits, cakes and bread, local cheeses, ice-cream, juices, wines and beer; plus daily newspapers, greeting cards, gifts and a large assortment of plants and flowers. We also have a selection of our most popular home-cooked dishes from the cafe available as either fresh or frozen ready-meals for you to enjoy at home.

We pick our seasonal vegetables freshly each day, favourites are our runner beans, courgettes and leeks. Our lambs are born and reared here on the farm. We are the sole stockists of Kiln Farm lamb, available in our freezer; mince, diced, chops, shoulder, leg and burgers. We stock local potatoes, free range eggs, Marybelle Milk, Suffolk Apples and juices, honey from our own hives and much more.

You can even taste the homemade cakes in our new Coffee Shop.

Main Road (A12), Marlesford Woodbridge, Suffolk, IP13 0AG 01728 747717 www.farmcafe.co.uk

Main Road, Kesgrave, Ipswich IP5 1BJ www.kilnfarm.com

Goslings Farm Shop

Grange Farm Shop

A friendly farm shop and Garden Nursery situated in the Suffolk Countryside and specialises in Pick Your Own Strawberries and other soft fruits including Raspberries. The shop has a plentiful range of fresh fruit and vegetables as well as cheeses, cakes, apple juices, raw and cooked meats, pastries and fish and much more, all sourced from local independent suppliers as much as possible. Alongside the shop is the Garden Nursery with a large range of shrubs, seasonal hanging baskets, ferns and grasses.

Award winning farm shop offering a wonderful selection of local produce, including locally reared meats, smoked fish, bread, cakes, biscuits, preserves, fruit juices, wines and beers, dairy produce, ice cream, olives, fresh and frozen fruit and vegetables and home grown apples in season. Fabulous hampers are available to buy or can be made to order. There is a large selection of plants for the garden and delicious home-made treats are served in the popular Barn Cafe.

Open: Monday to Saturday 8.30am – 5.00pm, Sundays and Bank Holidays 10.00am – 4.00pm

High Road, Trimley St.Martin Felixstowe, Suffolk, IP11 0SG 01394 273361 www.goslingsfarm.co.uk

Grundisburgh Rd, Hasketon, Woodbridge, IP13 6HN 01473 735610

H O ME S & I N T ER IO RS

Cool, Calm & Coastal Prices from ÂŁ35 per metre these fabrics and cushions are available from the collections at Red House Textiles

There’s something very tranquil about a coastal inspired room setting. Colour schemes, fabrics, fixtures and fittings can all help to build your look as well as collecting ornaments and artwork to further develop the theme. Have some fun with these suggestions from leading independent Suffolk retailers EssentialSUFFOLK

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H O ME S & I N T ER IO RS

Campbell Royal Island Yacht Club was £95.99 now £79.99 Glasswells

Beverly Hills Polo Club marina duvet cover set RRP from £60 now from £29.99 Glasswells

Essential SUFFOLK

always proud ~ to feature ~

Portofino Slate Rug was from £399.99 now from £199.99 Glasswells

LOCAL RETAILERS Voyage Maison Koi Carp cushion £52 Barretts

Driftwood coffee table was £289.99 now £260.99 Glasswells

Abersoch shower curtain was £14.99 now £13.50 Glasswells

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JULY / AUGUST 2018

H O ME S & I N TE RI OR S

Port Royal beach towel was £44.99 now £29.99 Glasswells

Coastal inspired stipres – all fabrics available from £35 per metre from Red House Textiles

Aldeburgh map mug £8.95 The Pug & The Pussycat

Alaska Beach towel was £31.99 now £21.50 Glasswells

Coral Reef beach towel was £44.99 now £29.99 Glasswells

Yellow welly mug £6, RNLI heritage mug £8 RNLI Shop online to support the RNLI via shop.rnli.org

Nautical Range from Victoria Eggs apron £19.99 The Woodbridge Kitchen Company

STOCKISTS Barretts of Woodbridge Barretts of Woodbridge, 40 – 42 Thoroughfare, Woodbridge. T: 01394 384300 www.barretts.co.uk Glasswells Ranelagh Road, Ipswich or Newmarket Road Bury St Edmunds. T: 01473 253164 www.glasswells.co.uk Pug & Pussycat 179 High Street, Aldeburgh. T: 01728 452928 and 1A Hamblin Rd, Woodbridge. T: 01394 380035 Red House Textiles Red House Stables, The Red House, High Street, Ufford, Woodbridge. T: 01394 548110 www.redhousetextiles.com The Woodbridge Kitchen Company 5 – 7 Thoroughfare, Woodbridge. T: 01394 382091 www.woodbridgekitchencompany.co.uk

Art For Cure deckchairs, £150 each (price incl delivery to UK mainland address) exclusive collection, only 50 of each of the six designs www.artforcure.org.uk

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AN T IQ U E S & AU C TI O NS

THE JOYS OF AN ARCHIVE So, after the last column, where were we?

James Neal

shredding lorry. A somewhat ignominious end to a copious amount of hard work, I think you will agree, but that is the way of the world!

I was recounting a story to a colleague the other day about a valuation I had been involved in while acting for Executors. They were endeavouring to obtain Probate. A valuation was required of both the property and the contents and as the firm had been involved with the family for many years a trip to the archive of files was the usual starting point.

Anyway, back to the plot. The valuation of the house, which itself sat in a very goodsized plot, was relatively straightforward. The property needed work to bring it up to date but would form an ideal basis for a purchaser to implement their own imaginative scheme.

This archive is particularly close to my heart at present as it is being removed from its current resting place to be divided into the more recent files which will be retained while those from the dim and distant past will meet their maker in the guise of a twelve-ton

The helpful inventory of the contents, which the archive revealed, made the inspection of the antiques more straightforward but also presented a problem. The difficulty was that there were a certain number of small items which were no longer present.

Kitchens

A thorough search of the house revealed nothing, but a floor safe was found. The trouble then started as no one had the combination for the lock and the usual default settings of 0000 or the birthdate of the former occupants failed to crack the code.

A locksmith set about drilling the safe and after a day and a half of desperately trying to pierce the safe’s body armour and get past the locking mechanism, the poor safe resembled a block of emmental cheese. It did eventually give up its contents. They were limited to a copy of the very inventory we had been using in the first place!

Under the circumstances you can see why I am keen to deal with our archives so urgently!

Bathrooms

German kitchen furniture | Corian | Dekton | Miele | Neff

Villeroy & Boch bathrooms | Hansgrohe | Matki | Aqata | Keuco

2 A1 A12 A12

WOODBRIDGE

D NR LTO ME

LD FIE ITH SM

A1152

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01394 386390 WOO MELTON DS L N

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KITCHEN & BATHROOM SPECIALISTS

Kitchen & Bathroom showroom SMITHFIELD, MELTON RD, WOODBRIDGE IP12 1NG

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JULY / AUGUST 2018

GEORGE JUNIPER & CO Character Interiors

For those looking for something special, something bespoke, something unique to furnish their homes George Juniper & Co, which has recently opened in Peasenhall, could have just what you are looking for

F

ashions in interior design come and go but for householders who really want to fill their home with beautiful artefacts, finding that special piece of furniture or lighting can be like looking for a needle in a haystack. But no longer – because Beth and Mark Ambrose are experts at finding interior pieces and have recently opened a new shop in Peasenhall that could well provide all you need.

George Juniper & Co only opened its doors at Easter but the couple bring with it decades of creativity straight from the worlds of theatre, TV, film and advertising. Little wonder then that they include companies like Liberty and Jack Wills as their customers.

Beth actually grew up in Peasenhall and says

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that she has always loved antiques, “I’ve had a love of old furniture and collectables since I was a child. I bought my first Millers Antiques Guide aged nine!”

Beth says she started work as a Stage Manager at the Wolsey Theatre, before moving to work in London and then from theatre to television, working on a range of programmes including documentaries, comedy and drama. Mark meanwhile worked with print media and in advertising, working for companies such as Saatchi & Saatchi and then into post-production for films.

Returning to Suffolk, they started their business with an online shop but decided to expand into physical premises only this year.

“We still trade online but found that this means you don't meet your customers and so we were missing out on that contact and having any sort of discussion. Also, buying an antique or a bespoke piece of lighting is far better if you can see it and touch it – our sales have increased through having the shop where people can come and browse at their leisure. It means we can have a chat about what else they may need, such as interior design or specific pieces that we can help to source.”

She says that people love the curious and the idiosyncratic. “Antiques and collectables are a way of owning something rare or unique and at George Juniper, we curate a selection of items that hopefully inspire and

B US I N ES S P RO FI LE | G E ORG E J U N IP ER & C O

“Antiques and collectables are a way of owning something rare or unique and at George Juniper, we curate a selection of items that hopefully inspire and excite people.

We buy only what we like, in the hope that others will like it too.

The age and history of a piece equally fascinate us and for the level of craftsmanship involved you get excellent value for money...”

excite people. We buy only what we like, in the hope that others will like it too. The age and history of a piece equally fascinate us and for the level of craftsmanship involved you get excellent value for money. And whilst the shop itself is small, we try to give people a glimpse of our design ethos and the wider range of stock we have on offer via our website.”

dealers. We've sold items to window dressers for Liberty and the stylists for the Jack Wills chain of shops regularly purchase items from us.”

So where do they source their antiques, “We visit several local auction houses but also via private acquisition through our customers and local contacts. We also regularly have pitches at Sunbury Antiques Market based at Kempton Park racecourse and Ardingly in Sussex where us traders do a lot of bartering!

The fairs are great for picking up continental pieces as there are lots of traders from France, Belgium, Holland and Germany.”

She said that their customers come from a wide area too, “In Suffolk, we're building a strong base of local customers. Having grown up here I know quite a few local people who've also become our clients. When we go to Sunbury Antiques Fair we have several regular London based customers who are Interior Designers, Stylists and other antique

Beth and Mark also offer interior design for homes and businesses. “We’re about to embark on redesigning a local business reception area, but we’re just as at home, at home, and have a property in Yoxford to refurbish via a private client. We stock our own range of bespoke lighting pieces where we convert vintage and antique pieces into lamps. These take many forms from fire extinguishers to old thermos flasks, bobbins to candlesticks. All are newly wired and PAT tested and certainly unique. In addition to our own services, we are situated next door to a wonderful upholsterer and we stock a range of interior products from local artisans. These include hand block printed cushions and bags

by Lovely Lydia, brightly patterned lamp shades by Helen at the Blacksmiths Gallery, hand-cut lino prints and cards by Unruly Print, original paintings and embroidery by Megan Rose Clark and handmade soy-based candles

by Olivia Alice. We’ll also soon stock a range of ceramics by Louise Farnes.”

Antiques | Interior Design | Bespoke Lighting

01728 660 797 www.georgejuniper.co.uk Free interior design consultation for July/August 2018.

Quote ‘Essential’

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JULY / AUGUST 2018

WATERSIDE & WOODLAND Tucked away in The Kings Forest close to West Stow, Fullers Mill is not just a unique and beautiful garden but it’s part of a national charity that helps horticulturalists in need. Anne Gould talks to head gardener Annie Dellbridge Photographs by Marcus Harpur

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G ARD E NING

W

hether you are a plant expert, a keen gardener, or just simply love walking around beautiful gardens, Fullers Mill is likely to take your breath away. Covering seven acres it combines light dappled woodland with a plantsman’s collection of uncommon shrubs, perennials, lilies and marginal plants. And unusually it even has two rivers running through it – the River Lark and Culford Stream, with a magnificent flower-fringed Mill Pond at its centre.

Of course, if you are not a keen gardener, you may never have even heard of it – but it’s certainly one of those delightful Suffolk secrets that’s just there to be discovered.

However, its reputation spreads far and wide – on the day I visited the garden was being featured on BBC’s Gardeners World and there were two private coach tours due to visit – one with gardeners from America and another from Italy.

According to head gardener, Annie Dellbridge there is a constant stream of private visits from the UK and abroad. They come for the garden and the amazing plants and the waterside vistas – but the history and future of the garden are of particular Suffolk

interest too. It was created by Bernard Tickner – the former head brewer of Greene King who is responsible for the brewery’s famous Abbott Ale. “When he first moved into the house 58 years ago there was just a very small piece of land here,” says Annie.

“But over the years he kept buying other pieces of land from the Forestry Commission and it is now seven acres in all.”

The property also includes a lake which is fenced off and is being managed by Suffolk Wildlife Trust. As a result, it’s a haven for wildlife; dragonflies, swans and says Annie an otter too. “We have never seen him but in the winter when there was snow on the ground we could see his tracks.” ‰

Garden watering made easy Hozelock 60m hose cart with 30m hose and fittings only £39.99 Hozelock 30m expanding hose only £44.99

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Hozelock Aquastorm 15 sprinkler only £17.99

“

It’s important to choose the right products to carefully look after your garden in the dry summer months. The team at Elmers are here, ready to help and advise you

”

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Harcostar Garden Lake 200ltr water butt kit only £34.99 Hozelock 30m hose reel with 25m hose and fittings only £27.99

(includes tap, lid, stand and downpipe connector)

Elmers Hardware | 59-61 Edmonton Road | Kesgrave | Suffolk | 01473 623381 | www.elmershardware.co.uk

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JU LY / AU G U ST 2 0 1 8

G AR DE NING

Photograph by Anne Gould

Bernard died only last year at the age of 93 but in 2013 gifted the property to Perennial, a national charity that helps horticulturists in need. In 2017 alone Perennial helped people access nearly £1.9 million in direct financial help. Annie says that what makes this garden unique is that it wasn’t planned or designed as many gardens are, because of the way it evolved. It also grew out of Bernard’s growing passion for horticulture and as this developed he sought out experts and plants from across the world.

“He went to Crete 30 times and brought back plants. He also got to know the head gardeners at Kew, Cambridge Botanic and people like Beth Chatto and Christopher Lloyd.” He is also, in part, responsible for the Euphorbia Redwing being sold across the world too, she said. “Bernard found a seedling in the garden and thought it looked unusual, he then gave it to Notcutts nursery who propagated it and it’s now widely available. The estate still receives royalties from this every year.”

Clearly, a garden of this size is a lot to manage – not just seven acres with a myriad of plants but two waterways as well. On the morning of my visit, for example, two people started the day removing half a bucket of crayfish from the river banks before starting work. Annie heads up a team of four but also has 30 volunteer gardeners who help out and an additional 20 people to meet and greet visitors. “We are only open from April to September but we work in the garden the year round, developing new areas and maintaining what’s here.”

The garden is divided into five sections – the top garden has dry conditions and poor soil so Bernard used a lot of Mediterranean

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Photograph by Marcus Harpur

plants – like early flowering snowdrops from Greece, wild Tulipa sprengeri and there’s also an elegant birch grove of Betula ‘Silver Grace’. Then there’s the River and Millpond which includes a weir over the River Lark and a footbridge. When Bernard first brought the property the millpond had disappeared under a tangle of branches and vegetation and since then much work has been done to restore this area. It’s now planted with masses of Primula, Darmera, the skunk cabbage, Lysichiton and other moisture-loving plants.

Beyond the Mill Pond lie the Inner and Outer Quandaries, offering a more sunny open aspect. Different varieties of snowdrops continue to emerge throughout winter and early spring, with many large flowered varieties followed by daphnes and peonies.

In summer the air carries the spicy scent of Spartium, hinting at the Mediterranean, while the indigo plant Indigofera, Crocosmia, lilies and a stunning white-flowered angel’s fishing rod Dierama, form an elegant display.

To the west of the Mill Pond is the Low Garden, which was the first area of the garden to be developed. Recently the original planting has been rejuvenated with many choice new plants added. In late winter and spring the curious purple flower of toothwort – Lathraea clandestina, a parasitic plant which colonises willow roots, can be found at ground level scattered through this area.

At the same time, the birch bank is carpeted with Crocus tommasinianus followed by Anemone blanda, which in turn make way for Galactites tomentosa in summer. The raised terrace beds are packed with flowering bulbs, which in spring look over a wonderful fresh mass of the shuttlecock fern Matteuccia.

Beyond this, in late June the giant lily Cardiocrinum giganteum produces its enormous spikes of amazing trumpet-like flowers. This bulb has very particular cultivation requirements and takes about seven years to flower and then dies.

However, it leaves behind a ring of small bulbs to start the process again and there is now a selection of plants of different ages to ensure a display of flowers in most years.

At the far side of the garden, The Strip contains the Chatto bed, planted with sunloving foliage plants mainly obtained from Beth Chatto’s garden in Essex, and a recently formed bed called The Patch, with a Quercus macrolepis grown from an acorn collected from Crete surrounded by Dipelta, Romneya coulteri, Cistus and groups of majestic lilies.

Photograph by Anne Gould

INFORMATION Fullers Mill is open on Wednesdays and Fridays from 2pm – 5pm and on Sundays from 11am – 5pm. Find out more via perennial.org.uk/garden/fullers-mill-garden

P R OPE RT Y

Essential

PROPERTY 66 67 69 71 72 74

Savills Clarke & Simpson Fenn Wright Jackson-Stops Hopkins Homes Jennie Jones 68 Bruisyard

70 Orford

74 Snape

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Orford, Heritage Coast £795,000

Sudbourne, Between Snape & Orford £695,000

An attractive, brick-built, detached house enjoying far reaching views over the fields, within walking distance of all that Orford has to offer. Hallway, utility area, kitchen, dining room, sitting room, drawing room & cloakroom. Master bedroom with en-suite bathroom. 3 further bedrooms & shower room. Mature gardens adjacent to fields. Parking & double garage. EPC = D Ref: 5940

A 4 bedroom single-storey Scandia-Hus standing in an idyllic location with mature grounds of 1.4 acres, next to Captain’s Wood nature reserve, Sudbourne.

Hallway, sitting room, open plan kitchen/dining room, utility room & cloakroom.

Bedroom 1 with en-suite shower room, 3 further bedrooms & bathroom.

Garage & workshop. Artist’s studio. Summer house, greenhouse & stores.

EPC = D Ref: 5952

Purdis Farm, Ipswich £680,000

Snape, Nr Heritage Coast £525,000

A spacious detached house located at Purdis Farm, 3 miles from the centre of Ipswich & 2.5 miles from the A12/A14. Hallway, kitchen/breakfast room, utility room, dining room, study, 19' x 18' sitting room & cloakroom. Master bedroom with en-suite bathroom, bedroom 2 with en-suite shower room, 3 further bedrooms & bathroom. Mature front & rear gardens of 0.2 acres. Double garage & ample parking. EPC = B Ref: 5901

An ultra low-energy contemporary house built to an exceptionally high standard by sustainable developer Greentithe, forming part of an outstanding small rural development in the highly sought-after parish of Snape. Open-plan kitchen/ dining/sitting room & cloakroom. 3 first floor bedrooms, en-suite shower room & bathroom. Front & rear gardens & 2 designated parking spaces. Ref: 5759

Occold, Nr Eye £485,000

Earl Soham, Nr Framlingham £250,000

A detached period house standing in a lovely position in grounds of 0.4 acres, 3 miles from Eye & 5 miles from Debenham. Utility room, wet room, garden room, study, kitchen/breakfast room, sitting room, dining room & snug. 3 first floor double bedrooms & bathroom. Front & rear parking areas. Beautiful gardens of 0.4 acres. Outbuildings. EPC = E Ref: 5947

A pretty, brick built, end-of-terrace cottage standing in a delightful location on the edge of the village of Earl Soham. Hallway, sitting room, dining room, kitchen & lean-to greenhouse.

3 first floor bedrooms & bathroom. Front & rear gardens. Off-road parking space. Ref: 5816

Clarke and Simpson, Well Close Square, Framlingham, Suffolk, IP13 9DU

T: 01728 724200

www.clarkeandsimpson.co.uk

JULY / AUGUST 2018

Sandpit Farm Facts Location: Bruisyard Price: Offers invited Agent: Savills

Beautiful Bruisyard Sandpit Farm is an impressive Grade II listed country home standing in 18.5 acres of land on the edge of the rural hamlet of Bruisyard, overlooking the Alde valley.

This beautiful property is believed to date back to the late 17th century but the house was remodelled in the mid 18th century with a classic red brick façade.

The house displays numerous features including some exposed timbers, stone floors, open fireplaces and offers a great deal of character throughout. Accommodation in the

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main house includes five bedrooms, two bathrooms, shower room, entrance hall, dining room, drawing room, sitting room, study, kitchen/breakfast room, cellar and cloakroom. There is also a self-contained studio annexe.

Outside, the house is all a country farmhouse should be – adorned by roses and other attractive climbing plants with delightful formal gardens and overlooking meadows.

Plus, there is a delightful range of traditional outbuildings which include a superb timber framed Suffolk barn, cart lodges and stables.

There are further outbuildings which are used for storage, garage and a home office.

There is also a hard tennis court and large Dutch barn. In addition there is a large annexe of brick and timber construction providing further family accommodation.

This is open plan with a large living room/bedroom and ‘wet room’.

INFORMATION Savills 01473 234800

fennwright.co.uk signaturesuffolk@fennwright.co.uk

great Bealings

Waldringfield

This fabulous detached family home offers magnificent open-plan accommodation with a stunning master bedroom with en-suite and Juliet balcony.

This fantastic family home is set in a rural location in the popular village of Great Bealings and benefits from four bedrooms, an attached garage and wonderful mature gardens.

• • • • • •

• Offering modern living in a rural location • 3 bedrooms • 2 reception rooms • Bespoke kitchen • Utility/cloakroom • Beautiful landscaped garden • EPC rating TBC

guide Price £625,000

newbourne

Scope for further improvement Spacious accommodation 4 reception rooms Separate workshop Easy access to Woodbridge EPC rating D

guide Price £700,000

freston Situated in the popular village of Newbourne, within easy reach of Ipswich, Woodbridge and Felixstowe, this four bedroom family home is ideal for escaping to the country and equestrians alike, set in grounds approaching 10 acres with equestrian facilities.

This stunning Grade II Listed four bedroom farmhouse has been renovated to a high standard creating an enviable family home extending to over 2,500 sq.ft, with a wealth of period features, enhanced by modern attributes.

guide Price £650,000

Buttermarket, Ipswich

• No onward chain • 3 reception rooms • Bathroom, shower room, en-suite • Double garage and parking • Gardens and grounds approximately 0.25 of an acre • Walking distance of Alton Water and Holbrook • Exempt from EPC rating

01473 232 700

• • • • • • •

Fantastic views Impressive kitchen En-suite to master bedroom Barn, gym, summerhouse Double cart lodge, sauna Paddocks and stable facilities EPC rating D

guide Price £935,000

Main Road, Kesgrave

01473 358 400

Quayside, Woodbridge

01394 333 346

JULY / AUGUST 2018

6 Chapelfield Facts Location: Orford Price: ÂŁ795,000 Agent: Clarke & Simpson

Rural Views Designed by an award-winning architect and built during the 1990s, 6 Chapelfield is a four bedroomed detached house with views over open farmland in the desirable village of Orford.

Internally, there is well laid out accommodation that includes a particularly spacious kitchen/dining room, adjoining sitting room and a separate drawing room.

On the ground floor, the drawing room has a triple-aspect with French doors opening to the north, east and west, and further east

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and west facing windows overlooking the garden. The kitchen/dining room is spacious also with a triple-aspect with north and east facing French doors opening to the garden and south facing windows overlooking the front of the property.

On the first floor are four bedrooms, the master has an en-suite bathroom. There is also a shower room. Outside there are two parking spaces immediately to the side of the house, but the vendors have always found that there is ample space for further visiting vehicles on the shingle courtyard.

To the front of the house are flowerbeds and cherry trees, and the property itself is adorned by rose bushes and rosemary. The main gardens lie to the rear and side of the house which is to the north and west.

To the east is a courtyard garden with beds, as well as a storage area for the oil tank/bins and a garden shed. The main gardens are laid to lawn but contain attractive beds with flowers and shrubs.

INFORMATION Clarke & Simpson 01728 724200

KEttLEbuRGH

uffORd

● Studio barn ● 6 beds ● 4 bath/shower ● In all about 12 acres

● 5 bath/shower ● Large timber barn ● Pool with entertaining area

● Idyllic setting ● 4 receptions ● Stunning kitchen/dining ● English Cottage gardens running down to the river

● Atmospherically presented manor house ● 3 receptions ● 6 beds ● Gardens & secluded grounds ● About 4 acres

GuidE £1,450,000

GuidE £1,400,000

MENdLESHaM

LaxfiELd

● 3 receptions ● 6 beds ● 4 bath/shower ● Oak framed party barn

● 2 bath/shower ● Extensive range of traditional farm buildings

● Elizabethan Manor House ● Extending to over 5,100 sq ft

● Double garage/stores ● Gardens & paddocks ● About 6 acres

● An impressive & substantial farmhouse ● 3 receptions ● 5 beds ● Gardens & partly moated grounds ● In all about 1.85 acres

GuidE £1,150,000

GuidE £797,500

PEttiStREE

MONK SOHaM

● 2 receptions ● 5 beds ● 2 bath/shower ● Range of domestic stores

● 3 receptions ● 5 beds ● 2 bathrooms ● Mature gardens

● Handsome Victorian farmhouse ● Edge of village location ● Gardens ● In all about 3 acres ● Rural views

GuidE £795,000

iPSwiCH 01473 218218

● Classic Grade II Listed 16th Century Suffolk Long House ● In all about 0.26 of an acre ● Rural setting

GuidE £585,000

15 Tower St, Ipswich IP1 3BE ipswich@jackson-stops.co.uk jackson-stops.co.uk

Local & National reach through a network of London & Regional offices P RO PERtY E xPERtS Si N CE 19 10

The best of Suffolk with Hopkins Homes and Hopkins & Moore

W

ith its idyllic rural villages, pretty coastal towns and plethora of fetes and festivals, summer in Suffolk certainly knows how to capture the hearts of visitors and residents alike. The award-winning Hopkins Group is based in the county and is therefore perfectly placed to select the finest locations for its developments.

Launching this summer Summer is lining up to be a busy time for the Hopkins Group as well as welcoming visitors to their existing developments throughout Suffolk there are a number of new developments due to open the doors to their marketing suites and show homes.

In July Hopkins & Moore will open Grove Gardens in Tostock, the development, to the north of the traditional Suffolk village will offer just 14 exceptional new homes consisting of 2, 3 and 4 bedrooms.

Later in the summer Hopkins Homes returns to Leiston where it has already completed a very popular development. The new development off Red

House Lane will offer 65 new homes in a variety of styles and sizes and is located just a few miles from the glorious Suffolk coastline.

There will also be a further launch from Hopkins Homes of a development off Bull Lane in Long Melford. The 71 homes planned will offer a full range of sizes and styles which have been carefully selected to complement this desirable location.

In September the much anticipated show homes at Hopkins Homes’ St George’s Park development in Needham Market and Willowbrook in Bramford will open, giving potential buyers their first opportunity to view the excellent build quality that Hopkins Homes is renowned for.

Final opportunities The Hopkins Group takes care to ensure that their developments not only blend well with the local architectural styles and details but that they also offer a wide choice of homes to buyers whether they are first timers, a growing family, downsizing or retiring – and for a limited time, Hopkins Homes is offering fantastic incentives such as carpets, Moduleo flooring and turf on selected plots.

Final homes are available at Prospect Place in Framlingham and Octavia Gardens in Gazeley, and just a few final apartments left at the popular Priors’ Grange development in Saxmundham.

Hopkins & Moore is also welcoming visitors to its existing Suffolk locations; including Earl’s Meadow in Easton and The Pines in Tunstall.

For those looking further afield, the Hopkins Group also has developments in Essex, Cambridgeshire and throughout Norfolk, including a new Hopkins & Moore development in Dickleburgh to be launched in July.

The Hopkins Charitable Fund Last year Hopkins Homes committed to donating £500,000 to local charities and good causes in Suffolk, Norfolk and Cambridgeshire over the course of five years. These funds are intended to support the valuable work done by charities and voluntary organisations across East Anglia and help to build stronger communities.

As part of this initiative Hopkins Homes donated £11,000 to local charities through their Charity of the Year vote. The public was asked to vote for

their favourite from a shortlist of seven of Suffolkbased charities. Reach Community Projects based in Haverhill came out on top, receiving a £7,000 donation. Whilst Ipswich Housing Action Group and the Halesworth Volunteer Centre came second and third receiving £2,000 and £1,000 respectively.

In addition there is a small grants fund administered in Suffolk by the Suffolk Community Foundation.

Over £15,000 was awarded to Suffolk-based groups and organisations in the latest round of allocations.

The organisations selected help support some of the most vulnerable members of the community, helping to combat isolation, debt and homelessness.

Working with the War Memorials Trust At the centre of many communities is a war memorial, this is particularly so in East Anglia where a historic association with the military endures to this day. As part of the Hopkins Charitable Fund a donation of £10,000 was made to War Memorials Trust for the conservation of war memorials across the region.

The grant was announced at the unveiling of the memorial to 357th Fighter Group United States Army Air Force in Leiston and since then grants have been awarded to memorials in Sudbury and Beccles.

Volunteer Days As well as financial support Hopkins Homes also provides more practical assistance. Twenty staff recently spent the day at Deben Community Care Farm helping with various construction projects including the construction of a polytunnel and raised beds and fencing around two paddocks. The farm works with children and adults in the local area, providing them with the opportunity to be involved in growing projects and also runs forest school sessions for the local preschool.

For full details of all developments from the Hopkins Group visit hopkinshomes.co.uk or call the sales line on 01394 446860.

hopkinshomes.co.uk Images of previous Hopkins Homes Show Home. Computer generated images indicative only.

JULY / AUGUST 2018

Home in Snape

Oakwood Facts

Location: Snape Price: £550,000 Agent: Jennie Jones

Oakwood is a deceptive four-bedroom single storey house on the northern edge of Snape.

It is located on a secluded plot overlooking light woodland and benefits from a newly built oak-framed motor house and selfcontained flat.

The house has been extended and modernised and is beautifully presented featuring a very smart open plan kitchen/dining room which opens out to a south facing sun deck via a pair of French windows and bi-folding doors. The sitting room, which is well proportioned, features

a fireplace with a contemporary wood burning stove. All four bedrooms will accommodate double beds and they are served by a family bathroom and an en-suite.

Meanwhile, the studio flat, which has vaulted ceilings, is accessed via an external staircase that leads to a balcony with space for a table and chairs. The flat is open plan with a smart fitted kitchen and integrated oven and hob.

There is a shower room and the bedroom/ sitting area could be used as office or workspace if desired. The flat would make an ideal guest suite or annexe.

The property is approached via a pea shingle driveway. There is a turning area to the front of the house and double gates that admit vehicles to the driveway leading to the garage at the back. The front garden is laid to lawn and screened from the road by mature and well-maintained evergreen hedges. It also features mature flower beds, side pedestrian gate, outside lighting.

INFORMATION Jennie Jones 01728 605511

SOUTHWOLD

SOUTHWOLD

SAXMUNDHAM

SAXMUNDHAM

CARLTON PARK, SAXMUNDHAM GUIDE PRICE £435,000

An elegant 3 bed house which forms part of an exclusive development of individual house set in 19 acres of protected farmland. Reception hall, cloaks, sitting room, study, lovely farmhouse kitchen/dining room, first floor galleried landing, ensuite, family bathroom, private garden, double garage. EPC -C

YOXFORD £337,500 19th century 2 bed cottage. 2 reception rooms, ,timber framed conservatory/garden room, kitchen/ breakfast room, cloaks, study/landing, bathroom, garage, semi-detached barn, utility, shed. EPC-D

ILKETSHALL ST MARGARET, NEAR BUNGAY £465,000 Spacious modern 3 storey detached house overlooking open farmland. Reception hall, cloaks, 2 receptions, fabulous open plan farmhouse style kitchen, utility room, galleried landing, 3 first floor bedrooms, ensuite and family bathroom, 2 second floor bedrooms, shower room, driveway, large single garage/workshop. EPC-C

YOXFORD £449,950 Detached 4 bed thatched cottage occupying a generous sized plot. Hall, cloaks, shower room, 2 receptions, farmhouse kitchen, study, bathroom, large south facing garden, double garage. EPC-D

FRISTON £288,000 19th century 3 bed semi detached cottage with huge potential to modernise in quiet semi-rural location. 2 receptions, kitchen, bathroom, long rear garden, driveway, 2 garages. EPC-F

SNAPE £550,000 A deceptive 4 bed single storey house with a newly built oak framed motor house and self contained flat. Spacious sitting room with wood burner, open plan beautiful fitted kitchen/dining room, cloaks, utility, ensuite to master bedroom, double garage and workshop, landscaped garden. EPC-D

WORLINGWORTH £217,500 A well presented 3 storey , 3 bed modern semi. Hall, sitting room/kitchen/dining room, cloaks, bathroom, off road parking and pretty rear garden. EPC-C

Saxmundham 01728 605511 Southwold 01502 722065 www.jennie-jones.com

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SAXMUNDHAM £288,950 Almost new 3 bedroom three storey semi detached town house built by Hopkins Homes. Hall, cloaks, sitting room, kitchen/dining room, 2 ensuites, bathroom, large garage, good sized garden. EPC=B

Essential FACES

The Turks Head Beer, Cider & Gin Festival The early May Bank Holiday was blessed with glorious weather, perfect for the third annual Beer, Cider & Gin Festival at the Turks Head in Hasketon, near Woodbridge.

With live music and spicy street food the weekend was another great success story.

Charlotte Mayhew, Jaimie Hutt, Kelly McIntyre, Sarah Allen, Francesca Musolino

Jon Ling, Stuart Gilson

Alessandra Rimoli-Henderson, David Henderson

Joanne & Jason Lewis

Jackie Taylor, Emma Keen

Charlotte Derbyshire, Tom Taylor

Louise Renwick, Alex Chater, Poppy Biddulph, Robin & Monty

Peter Wright, Sarah Jeffrey

Jo Maghoo, Rebecca Lewis

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Essential FACES

Snowflake Ball Home-Start in Suffolk held its third annual Snowflake Ball at Milsoms, Kesgrave Hall. The local charity supports families for whom the pressures of life have become too much to cope with alone, issues such as bereavement, poverty, multiple births and mental and physical health problems. The event, hosted

by Tim Holder from The Suffolk Community Foundation and Tara Sommers of Home-Start was attended by more than 170 guests with special guest auctioneer Ollie Holloway of Clarke and Simpson and artists ‘The Beavers’ provided guests with entertainment.

Barry & Pippa Martin, Carolyn & Philip Westrope

Richard Holland, Tina Anthony

Trevor & Dana Roberts, Darrell & Claire Dunnett

Mark & Helen Davies 76

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Suki & Matthew Froggatt

Nikki & George Vesty

Tim Holder, Miranda Kendall, Tara Somers, Andrew Spence

Margaret & David Anderson

Laurence & Roshan Gannon

Essential FACES

Six Suffolk Cyclists Claire Harrington, Rachel Summers, Lydia Sansom, Julia Taylor, Emily Lynch and Anne-Marie Cooney – along with a team of ‘Art For Cure cyclists’ – are cycling from Ho Chi Minh City to Angkor Wat to raise funds for Art For Cure. The charity raises money for the care and cure of breast cancer. The ladies, known as the Six Suffolk Cyclists, are funding the trip themselves but held a fund raising party to get the giving underway.

If you’d like to support them please visit www.justgiving.com/fundraising/SixSuffolkCyclists

Anne-Marie Cooney, Emily Lynch, Lydia Sansom, Julia Taylor, Claire Harrington, Rachel Summers

Ian Hutchison, Orla & Richard Goble

Simon Harrington, John Taylor, Phil Summers

Andy & Sarah Gibbons, Simon & Marion Benton, Sally-Jane & Tim Ellis

Chris & Sally Haird

Amy Cranfield, Rebecca Smith

Sally, Jane & Chris Easey, Tom Baldwin, Jane Cabedo

Sarah & Justin D’Arcy, Belinda & Alex Gray

Jane & Steve Curzon

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Essential FACES

Suffolk Show 2018 Organised by the Suffolk Agricultural Association the theme for this year’s Suffolk Show was ‘Looking Back, Looking Forward’; taking a look at life in Suffolk 100 years ago and how it might be in the future too. The Show Rings were once again buzzing with favourites like the Shetland Pony Grand National and Terrier Racing plus the Bolddog Lings motorbike stunt display team.

Jonathan Stringer, Josh Hopkins, Jill Bryce, Heaven Sochon, Iain Jamie, Lesley Lewendon

Niki Hollingworth, Bob Wilden

Jenette Thomas, Jean Woby, Karen Finch, Matthew Coward, Julie Waters

Laura Milldown, Jane Milldown

Peter Cook, Sally Burch, Mark Murphy, Steph Mackentyre

Graham Shemmings, Lizzy Tuthill, Norman Lloyd

Dave Barry, Ashleigh Beba, John Barry, Carole Darbyshire

Mark Newman, Michaela Watt, Alison Wareham

David Johnson, Roger Gladwell

Michael Grist, Vicky Barrett, Jill Barrett

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We love celebrating everything about our county and we’re sure you do too, so why not tell us all about it?

Your Suffolk is your chance to share good news stories from around the county

Send us your photos, share your stories and celebrate Suffolk Have you enjoyed one of Darcy’s Pub Walks?

Maybe you’ve made something impressive using local ingredients, or had a bumper crop?

Did you attend an event, or even hold your own celebration?

If so, we’d love to hear from you and we’ll be sharing a selection of your stories and pictures in the next issue HOW TO GET IN TOUCH

@ You can email: yoursuffolk@achievemoremedia.co.uk You can write: Your Suffolk, Achieve More Media Ltd, 21 Terry Gardens, Kesgrave, Suffolk IP5 2EP Or tell us via Facebook: @EssentialSuffolk

Essential Directory CARE

HOMES & INTERIORS

Personalised affordable care at home Ipswich and east Suffolk 01473 707900 Homecare@stelizcare.co.uk

Tree Surgery Need some help or advice?

Call us on 07507 660 533 suffolktreescape@gmail.com

DESIGN SERVICES

Clear graphic design in print and online We are a team of friendly, hardworking, no-nonsense designers creating distinctive brands and concise communications across a range of sectors

AFFORDABLE LAWN TREATMENTS CHEAPER THAN DIY PRICES FROM £15 Call Ashley on

01394 279353/07957 519872 for a free analysis & quotation

Traditional craftsmanship, first-class products – A love for wood and an eye for detail For more information call 01206 298746/01473 365167 or visit www.hall-brothers.co.uk

GIFTS

Newman Design 8 Brightwell Barns Ipswich Road Brightwell IP10 0BJ 01473 811728 info@newman-design.com www.newman-design.com

Purchase instant ‘e’ gift vouchers via www.pressi.co.uk GARDENING

HEALTH & BEAUTY

The Beauty Room Melton Park At the Beauty Room we pride ourselves on offering professional treatments with top brands in a warm and friendly environment.

No7 Clements Road, Melton Park, IP12 1SZ 01394 548734 www.thebeautyroommelton.com

The perfect tiles for all the family Supplying Suffolk with beautiful exclusive tiles since 1998

Just Tiles TILE SHOWROOM

Smithfield, Melton, Woodbridge Suffolk IP12 1NH 01394 382067 justtileswoodbridge.co.uk

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&

To advertise from just £25 per month call 01473 809932 we’ll be happy to help and advise you

Rendall Wright

W

LEISURE

WOODBRIDGE INTERIORS KITCHEN & BATHROOM SPECIALISTS

Award winning interior design, creating beautiful, elegant and timeless interiors in the heart of Suffolk

E L E C T R I C B I C YC L E S

SMITHFIELD, MELTON ROAD WOODBRIDGE, SUFFOLK, IP12 1NG

01787 375076 | info@rendallandwright.com www.rendallandwright.com

01394 386390

www.woodbridgeinteriors.co.uk

Conquer hills and headwind without breaking a sweat Wide range of e-bikes to suit any age or ability, from hybrids to folders to xtreme downhill, we have it all on display.

Beautifully hand crafted, bespoke kitchens, cabinets and furniture www.orwellsfurniture.co.uk

www.angliafactors.co.uk

e-Vélo, 7a Blyth Road Ind. Est. Halesworth, Suffolk IP19 8EN 0800 246 5306 www.e-velo.uk

MOTORING

HOT TUBS IN IPSWICH

Spas in stock for quick delivery. Splasher pools / hot tub chemicals in stock.

Enduringly beautiful windows and doors Notcutts Garden Centre, Ipswich Road Woodbridge, Suffolk IP12 4AF. 01394 386666

www.burgess-group.com

NOW HERE The exclusive Deckworld Deben six seat hot tub – just £6795.

Ask for details.

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Mercedes-Benz Independent Specialist Sales, Service & Repair

10% off all chemical orders over £50

Felixstowe Road, Ipswich IP10 ODE (Opposite Miller & Carter)

Tel: (01473) 655777 www.deckworld.co.uk Visit us at jumpinyourhottub.com

Complimentary Courtesy Cars The Woodlands, Badley Needham Market, IP6 8RS 01449 774222 service@derrickwells.com www.derrickwells.com

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JU LY / AU GU ST 2018

M Y S U FF OL K

My Suffolk Where were you born and how did you come to live in Suffolk?

I was born and raised in Clacton-on-Sea but we used to take family holidays in Suffolk.

My aunt ran the Eels Foot pub in Eastbridge, which is on the street where my mother and eight siblings were born so you could say my roots are in the county. I live in a beautiful round thatched cottage that I bought as a weekend retreat in the ‘80s. I never planned to live here permanently but I was living in Hollywood, California when my daughter, Ella, was born and Suffolk seemed like a much more appealing place to raise a child.

How did you come to set up Maverick?

I have always worked in the music business, so when I moved back to the UK from America 15 years ago I was looking for a new project. I used to take my children to Easton Farm Park and one day the penny dropped that it would be a perfect venue for an American Roots music festival. A terrific location to celebrate the kind of music I had fallen in love with while living in the States.

Paul Spencer is the mastermind behind Maverick – the UK’s first and best-known Americana Festival

What makes the county special?

It has a wild and natural beauty. It feels remote yet is less than two hours from London when you need that city fix, which I still do. I recently had lunch in the Eels Foot and was delighted to find that the area remains unspoilt and very much as I remember it from my childhood.

Do you enjoy walking and where do you like to walk?

I like to walk to Easton Farm Park which is five minutes from my house. There is a secluded river walk there which I particularly like to take in the evenings when my only companions are likely to be the swans and an occasional Kingfisher.

Where do you like to eat out?

The Table in Woodbridge is a favourite and The White Horse at Easton, which the same proprietor has recently taken over.

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Where would you take newcomers on a tour of Suffolk?

Orford, for the river views and a possible cruise; Framlingham for The Mere and the Castle and Sutton Hoo for a quick history lesson. Also, Dunwich has a rare and magical quality, perhaps enhanced by the mythology.

They say that on occasion, the bells can be heard ringing from the church that sunk beneath the waves in the 13th century.

Adnams, Aspalls or Greens King?

Adnams, if Earl Soham Victoria is not available.

Do you have any hobbies?

I used to be a professional drummer in a former life. I like to get back on a drum stool now and again and remind myself of past glories. I toured with some great bands and was lucky enough to be on The Old Grey Whistle Test – though it’s hard to believe that was almost 40 years ago.

Where do you like to shop?

I am not much of a shopper but I do enjoy a visit to the Campsea Ashe weekly auctions for the spontaneous unexpected purchase.

I recently bought an accordion, which I cannot play, because it is such a beautifully crafted instrument. Funnily enough, there is an accordion player scheduled for the festival this year, so I may get to hear it, as well as admire it.

Is there one picture you would take, to sum up our county?

The Suffolk Punch and its new foal that was born at Easton Farm Park just recently.

What would you recommend as the perfect day out in Suffolk this summer?

A walk along the seafront in Aldeburgh – eating an ice-cream, inspecting the local fishermen’s catch and heading for Maggi Hambling’s Seashell.

Jane says there’s

NO place like home 48% of us die in hospital.

Only 1% of us want to.

You can help us care for Suffolk’s terminally ill at home.

Together we can change the picture Donate today at stelizabethhospice.org.uk/noplacelikehome5

MULTI-AWARD WINNERS Craftsmanship Award Winners 2018 – Extensions & Alterations and New Build categories

Let’s talk about your build because we want to help make your project a reality

Birch Group Unit 25 Brightwell Barns Ipswich Road Brightwell Suffolk IP10 0BJ 01473 599150 | enquiry@thebirchgroup.co.uk | thebirchgroup.co.uk