Essential Suffolk December 2015

December 2015 | Priceless

Essential SUFFOLK

CHRISTMAS We celebrate the festive season in Suffolk Theatre | Food | Fashion | Gifts | Homes & Interiors | Elite Properties

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Wishing our clients past present and future a wonderful festive holiday

MADE FOR LIFE DESIGN | MANUFACTURE | INSTALL

DECEMBER 2015

Lesley Rawlinson Director lesley@achievemoremedia.co.uk T: 01473 809932 M: 07519 477583

Adrian Rawlinson Director adrian@achievemoremedia.co.uk T: 01473 809932 M: 07718 149307

Alison Watson Account Manager alison@achievemoremedia.co.uk T: 01473 809932 M: 07546 485204

Anne Gould Editor editor@achievemoremedia.co.uk M: 07411 701010

Paul Newman Designer paul@newman-design.com Cover image: The Art for Cure ultimate Christmas wreath. See pages 26 and 27.

Photograph: Adrian Rawlinson

| Welcome

WELCOME December, the darkest month, the herald of winter with its short days and long nights always seems to go by in a flash. There’s so much to do; lists to write, gifts to buy, decorations to be decked and people to see, as one by one more windows get opened and more breakfast chocolate gets eaten from the family Advent calendar. Children are inevitably over excited anticipating presents and pantomimes, perhaps even an opportunity to see Father Christmas, while grown ups wish simply for more hours in the day.

Christmas is without doubt one of the highlights of the year for the Essential Suffolk team and one of the things we love doing is helping everyone with this seasonal rush. Our magazine can help if you are looking for seasonal gifts, Christmas books, recipes to impress for parties and entertaining and if you are looking for festive entertainment, we’ve even thought about that too.

Plus, for those who are creative and artistic and want to set aside some time to make their own decorations we have a step-by-step guide to creating a front door wreath, courtesy of Art for Cure. Also for those hoping to offset some of those dreaded ‘Christmas calories’ by getting out and about and active for charity, there’s a rundown of some of the most popular festive sponsored events.

Essential Suffolk was also lucky enough to catch up with Gareth Malone, the nation’s favourite choirmaster who is visiting Ipswich as part of his nationwide tour. In fact he’s starting to become a familiar face in the county – he created his first ever Latitude choir at Henham Park back in the summer where he discovered 14-year-old Woodbridge schoolgirl Louisa Falconer. He was so impressed with Louisa’s singing that he’s asked her to join him on stage at Ipswich Regent and key dates on tour – including the Royal Festival Hall. Clearly Louisa is a talent to watch out for in the future.

In addition to all of this our December issue has all our regulars – fashion, property and the ever-popular Essential Faces. Don’t forget to keep up to date with Essential Suffolk news and views on social media – on Twitter @EssentialSFK, on Facebook and on our website.

So Season’s Greetings to all and a happy New Year.

See all our Social photos at essentialsuffolk.com Follow us on twitter @EssentialSFK

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.

Anne Gould Anne Gould Editor

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CHRISTMAS

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Contents

08

20

37

54

FEATURES

20

Christmas Shows, Concerts and Pantomimes On stage at theatres across the county

24 26 37

24

Charity at Christmas A guide to Santa inspired runs, swims and more

Wreath Making for Christmas Art for Cure share a seasonal skill

The Essential Suffolk Christmas Gift Guide 14 pages of gift inspiration from independent Suffolk retailers

64

52

Christmas Books A literary list from the heart of Suffolk

PEOPLE

08 90

Gareth Malone Discovering a new talent in Suffolk

My Suffolk The Venerable Ian Morgan, Archdeacon of Suffolk

REGULARS

13

Suffolk in Brief News from around the county

15 28 54 64

What’s On Where to go and what to see in Suffolk in December including carol concerts and tree festivals

Fashion Seasonal essentials

Food & Drink Christmas Recipes, wine and ideas for eating out

Homes & Interiors Inspiration for trimming the tree and decorating your home at Christmas

73

Property

84

Essential Faces

A selection of our county’s finest homes for sale

Highlights from Suffolk’s social calendar

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Celebrity Interview | Gareth Malone

SOLO SUCCESS Woodbridge teenager Louisa Falconer has always loved singing and was thrilled back in the summer to have been picked as part of Gareth Malone’s Latitude Choir. She never expected what came next. Anne Gould reports

M

usician, choirmaster, TV personality, BAFTA winner and star maker Gareth Malone has worked all sorts of miracles through the power of song. He had a Christmas number one with the Military Wives Choir song Wherever You Are, he’s taught everyone from reluctant teenagers to shy singers under the all-seeing eye of television, brought them out of themselves and helped them to shine.

Plus his documentaries make such compelling viewing that its little wonder that the nation loves him and in Suffolk the first-ever Latitude Festival choir was the hottest ticket around this summer.

It’s thanks to this initial venture into the world of summer music festivals, that when he brings his professional choir, Voices, to Ipswich Regent this month he’ll be featuring a very special singer; 14 year old Louisa Falconer from Woodbridge.

Louisa was one of the 100 lucky people chosen for his oversubscribed ‘scratch choir’ (at Latitude) with the challenge of performing live on the main stage at Henham Park on the Sunday. Not only that, she was hand-picked from the assembled singers to perform a solo of Wake Me Up, the song Gareth famously took to number one in aid of Children in Need.

solo of one line but then it became a verse with the idea that one of my regular singers, Sophie, would finish the song. When we heard Louisa sing though, Sophie suggested that she should do the whole song – and when she actually performed it she was great.”

So great in fact that Louisa, who attends Farlingaye High School, was not only praised by her hero - Suffolk’s star singer-songwriter Ed Sheeran, who just happened to be in the crowd but she ended up being interviewed on BBC Radio Suffolk too. It doesn’t end there though as Gareth was so impressed that he’s invited her to join his UK Voices tour with his professional choir and Louisa will appear on four dates – in Northampton, Cambridge, London’s Royal Festival Hall and at the Ipswich Regent on December 3.

Gareth says that from the moment he first saw Louisa he was struck by her ability. “When you are in a rehearsal there are certain people who you know are fully and utterly committed and focused. She just said this with her body language and I knew she was really serious. Louisa is so young and I thought it was quite remarkable, when I asked people to go for a solo, that she was interested. Originally the idea was for a

Gareth says, “I believe everyone has the right to sing but when you see talent it screams at you. In a choir you can hear the people with the fantastic voices and you can see who is taking it seriously.

There is a confidence in some people that’s just really obvious.” For Louisa, a Suffolk Junior Vocal and Junior Drama champion the whole experience has been “really exciting”. ‰

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Celebrity Interview | Gareth Malone

“I have always loved singing. When we were at Latitude Gareth just made everyone feel comfortable and I am really looking forward to joining his choir especially in London and of course in Ipswich too.” In the meantime she’s also been advised by Gareth on how to move forward with her music and she’s been having singing and guitar lessons with local teachers who just co-incidentally taught Ed Sheeran. “Actually it’s my dream to one day meet him,” she added.

Louisa at Latitude photograph by elizarowe

Meanwhile Gareth, a self-confessed entrepreneurial musician, says he’s really looking forward to the tour – and then having an eight-day rest over Christmas.

This choir was set up in 2013 with Decca Records to find the country’s most talented young singers to form a new youth choir. It resulted in the album Gareth Malone’s Voices, which embodies his vision of the future of choral music.

The upcoming tour, he said, would include the UK’s favourite contemporary tracks, festive songs plus a few surprises all with the finest choral and innovative arrangements.

As yet Gareth is not sure what 2016 will bring – he’s hoping to do another series of the Naked Choir but apart from that there’s nothing firm just yet.

So will he be heading back to Suffolk next year? “I hope so. I was invited to Snape last year by Roger Wright who is a pal of mine but unfortunately I had to say no.” And, what about Latitude?

“Actually I have blocked off the Latitude dates in my diary because I enjoyed the experience. Melvin has done such a wonderful job with the event. Also I’d love to do another festival choir… but I haven’t been asked so far.”

It will be the climax of another busy and memorable year that’s seen The Naked Choir on BBC 2 and two very different projects commemorating the centenary of World War One. The Big Performance culminated with a performance at St Symphorien and Gareth also conducted his first ever Prom with the Military Wives Choir alongside performers from War Horse. This will be shown in a two-part documentary on December 16 on BBC2.

INFORMATION Gareth Malone’s Voices will be at Ipswich Regent on December 3.

Box office: 01473 433100 www.ipswichregent.com Louisa’s audition and Latitude performance can be seen by visiting youtube.com and searching ‘Louisa Falconer’

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News

SUFFOLK in brief The High Sheriff of Suffolk Judith Shallow has launched the High Sheriff’s Annual Awards, and is calling for voluntary groups to submit their entries.

These leading community awards reward the people doing ground-breaking and life-changing work across our county. Judith said “During 2015 I have travelled throughout the County and have come across many extraordinary individuals and groups of all ages who voluntarily devote their time and energy to improve the communities in which they live or work, and make Suffolk a better and safer place to live. The High Sheriff ’s Awards, run

by Suffolk Community Foundation, seek to recognise local groups and volunteers and celebrate their sterling work. Please help us to identify these groups and individuals whose unselfish efforts make such a difference and deserve our recognition, as much of their work goes on unnoticed”. For more detail visit www.esentialsuffolk.com/ high-sheriff-awards-2016

East Anglia’s largest independent housebuilders, Hopkins Homes, walked away from the prestigious Sunday Times British Homes Awards 2015 as Development of the Year winners. The housebuilders were shortlisted in the Development of the Year category for a scheme of over 100 houses/apartments built in the last twelve months and fought of stiff competition to win the coveted prize. The award was presented to Hopkins Homes for their development at Aylsham known as St Michael’s Place & Bure Place. James Hopkins, executive chairman of Hopkins Homes, said: “We are delighted to have won the Development of the Year Award at the prestigious Sunday Times British Homes Awards 2015. As an independent house builder based in the East of England it is a simply fantastic achievement for our work to be recognised on a national platform.”

Seckford Hall has announced the arrival of the hotel & spa’s new General Manager, Sean Riley. Sean has an impressive background in hospitality and international cuisine and originally trained as an executive chef. With an extensive knowledge of first class hotel operations and such a strong food and beverages background, Sean says

“My aim is to put our two AA rosette restaurant 1530 firmly on the map as one of the finest restaurants in Suffolk. In addition I want Seckford Hall to be known for impeccable and exceptional service so that guests want to return to our magnificent Tudor hotel time and time again”.

A vital service for families across the east of Suffolk has been given a huge cash boost, thanks to a successful charity auction. More than £2000 was raised for Home-Start East Ipswich and Coastal, when dozens of supporters and hopeful bidders came together for an event at Woodbridge’s Shire Hall. The auction, which was led by popular local auctioneer and estate agent James Neal, saw a frenzy of bidding for lots such as a tour of the Houses of Parliament, a hamper from Jane Asher Party Cakes, a tour of Adnams and a prepared and delivered home meal. In total, 50 lots went under the hammer, collectively raising £2,021. www.homestarteastsuffolk.org.uk

The Suffolk Community Foundation has recently launched the Surviving Winter Campaign. Now in its fifth year, the campaign has continued to break records, raising over £85,000 last winter, helping more than 400 Suffolk households. This was the largest amount raised by any county in the UK for this national campaign last year.

Suffolk Community Foundation’s development director Tim Holder says: “For older people in our county, the need to stay warm at home is not a luxury, it’s absolutely essential and saves lives. The people of Suffolk have been consistently brilliant in seeing how important this campaign is. The reality of the situation is that, as the momentum and awareness has grown, the amount raised has increased year on year, but so has the demand for assistance. We never want to have to say no to helping an older and vulnerable person in need and that’s why this year’s appeal is challenging the people of Suffolk to join together and raise a record

breaking £100,000”. To read more about the campaign and how you can donate visit www.essentialsuffolk.com/ surviving-winter-2015

St Elizabeth Hospice is inviting people to “Pull on your craziest Christmas knit and do your bit for your local hospice!” in Christmas Jumper week that runs from 14 – 18 December. Pauline Donkin, fundraising development manager at St Elizabeth said “Whether you’re a business, school or group, we want you to get involved. It’s easy – just get together with your colleagues, friends and neighbours and go wild in wool! Ask everyone to wear their silliest sweater, and donate £2 to the hospice. Your money will help ensure nobody has to face their illness alone this Christmas.” For more details and to get your festive fundraising pack visit www.stelizabethhospice.org.uk

From reducing energy use and saving water to planning for a green future, work by National Trust teams to help create a greener region was celebrated at a recent awards ceremony. National Trust teams from around the East were competing for prizes in ten categories, including Green Kitchen, Wise Use of Water, Holiday Cottage Hero, Best Energy Reduction and Green Team of the Year. As the largest conservation charity in Europe, the National Trust is committed to reducing its energy consumption by 20% by 2020. Of the remaining 80%, half will be from renewable energy sources. Read more and see pictures of the event at www.essentialsuffolk.com/nt-green-awards

The privately owned Brudenell Hotel on Aldeburgh’s seafront has received a Silver Suffolk Carbon Charter accreditation following the proven success of its energy reduction programme over the past 12 months. This important award recognises companies which take their environmental responsibility seriously and raises the hotel’s current bronze status up to a much higher level. It follows closely on the Brudenell’s 2015 AA Silver Star Award granted for its high standards of hotel keeping, superior level of quality, hospitality, service and cleanliness.

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

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What’s On

WHAT’S ON DECEMBER 1

DECEMBER 1 – JANUARY 30

Marty Wilde – Born to Rock ‘n’ Roll

The Sword in the Stone

The Apex, Bury St Edmunds, 7:30pm

New Wolsey Theatre, Ipswich

A chance to see one of the only performing rock ‘n’ roll pioneers in the world today live on stage!

Tickets: £22 Box Office: 01284 758000 www.theapex.co.uk

See Christmas Shows pages 20 – 23 Box Office: 01473 295900 www.wolseytheatre.co.uk

Framlingham Christmas Festival

Market Hill, Framlingham, 6 – 9pm

DECEMBER 2, 9, 12, 16 AND 19 Craft and Gift Fair

Late-night shopping at the independent shops around town and, on Market Hill, stalls selling food, drinks and gifts. Santa’s grotto and horse-drawn carriage rides, singing choirs and piping pipers. The evening starts with the lights-on ceremony for the main Christmas tree.

Entry: Free Information: 01728 723644 www.framlinghambusiness.co.uk

Apex, Bury St Edmunds, 10am - 4.30pm A great selection of handmade craft and unique gifts especially for Christmas.

Entry: Free Information: 07870 437264

The Primitives, plus Special Guests

John Peel Centre, Church Walk, Stowmarket, 7:30pm Tickets: £10 Box Office: 01449 774678 www.johnpeelcentre.com

DECEMBER 3 The RAF in Concert Admission One Shilling – Patricia Routledge and Piers Lane

The Apex, Bury St Edmunds, 7:30pm

DECEMBER 1 – JANUARY 2 The Paper Dolls

Wolsey Studio, Ipswich, various times From the award-winning author of The Gruffalo. When a little girl cuts out a string of paper dolls she takes them by the hand and together they go on a fantastical adventure whirling through their home and garden.

Adapted from the acclaimed book by Children’s Laureate Julia Donaldson, this magical tale is brought to life through puppetry and music.

Tickets: £12 – £7 Box Office: 01473 295900 www.wolseytheatre.co.uk

DECEMBER 1 – JANUARY 10

Ipswich Regent, 7:30pm 75 years on from the historic battle, the bands of the Royal Air Force present an evocative and rousing evening of musical entertainment that captures the essence of 1940s Britain and tells the story of how the spirit and capability of those who took part endures in the professionalism of the people who make up today’s RAF. Tickets: £27 – £16 Box Office: 01473 433100 www.ipswichregent.com Chelsworth Christmas Fair

All Saints’ Church, Chelsworth, 3 – 8pm Award-winning actress Patricia Routledge and international concert pianist Piers Lane tell the extraordinary story of Myra Hess and her famous wartime National Gallery concerts.

Tickets: £25 – £21 Box Office: 01284 758000 www.theapex.co.uk Gareth Malone

Christmas Fair with gifts, produce and confectionery. Raffle for Christmas hampers.

Tombola and lucky dip. Cards, candles, wreaths, jewellery, bulbs for Christmas and spring. Mulled wine, hot toddy and spiced apple juice. Choirs & carols.

Tickets: £3 (children free) Proceeds to All Saints Church

DECEMBER 4 – 5

Ipswich Regent, 7:30pm Jack and the Beanstalk

Theatre Royal, Bury St Edmunds See Christmas Shows pages 20 – 23 Box Office: 01284 769505 www.theatreroyal.org

See feature pages 8 to 11 Box Office: 01473 433100 www.ipswichregent.com

The Doodle Dance Show

Dance East, various times See Christmas Shows pages 20 – 23 Box Office: 01473 295230 info@danceeast.co.uk

DECEMBER 4 Aladdin

Colchester Mercury See Christmas Shows pages 20 – 23 Box Office: 01206 573948 www.mercurytheatre.co.uk

Quiz Night – Christmas Special

Jimmy’s Farm, 7:15pm Entry: £15 Information: 01473 604206 www.jimmysfarm.com

To see more event listings for this month and beyond visit

essentialsuffolk.com EssentialSUFFOLK

15

DECEMBER 2015

DECEMBER 4 – 6

Farmers Markets

DECEMBER 6

Lavenham Christmas Fair

Beccles Heliport, 9am – 1pm Metfield Village Hall, 9am – 12 noon Snape Maltings, 9.30am – 1pm

Rock ‘n’ Roll Christmas Show

Lavenham Market Place, Fri 5:30pm, Sat & Sun 11am – 5pm Magical three-day Dickensian Christmas Fair in the Market Place. More than 80 festive stalls, Father Christmas grotto, mulled wine and hot food, live music, The big wheel and entertainment for all the family. Look out for The Great House Bar where you can enjoy delicious mulled wine and mulled cider plus lots of festive food and drink Entry: Free

DECEMBER 5 – 6 Santa Special

Mid-Suffolk Light Railway, Brockford Station, Wetheringsett

DECEMBER 5

A steam train ride aboard the Santa Special at the Mid-Suffolk Light Railway Tickets: £8 (child £4, concession £7, family 2+2 £20) Information: 01449 766899 (also December 12 – 13)

Marvellously Magical Christmas

The Ipswich Masters 2015

Seckford Theatre, Woodbridge, 6:45pm

Corn Exchange, 7:40pm

The Theatre Emporium School of Performing Arts presents a festive medley filled with enchanting tales, toe tapping dance and charming songs is sure to get you into the Christmas spirit!

Tickets: £10.50 Box Office: 01473 295900 www.wolseytheatre.co.uk/ marvellouslymagicalchristmas

Ipswich will host its first major darts exhibition with some of the sport’s stars in competition.

Tickets: £65 – £25 Box Office: 01473 433100 www.ipswichregent.com Christmas Market

Jimmys Farm, 10am – 4pm

The Cut, Halesworth, 7:30pm East Anglia’s top showband Lowrider perform their Christmas show with a difference.

Christmas songs and laughs galore!

Tickets: £10 Box Office: 0845 673 2123 www.newcut.org Framlingham Christmas Market

Market Hill, Framlingham, 11am – 3pm With a wide range of produce for sale including; Christmas cards and gifts, floral arrangements, tombola, books, cakes and festive fare plus hot chocolate and roasted chestnuts. The road around the Market Hill area will be closed to traffic from 8am to 4pm.

Information: Mrs Eileen Coe (Town Clerk) 01728 720183 Email: townclerk@framlingham.com

To see more event listings for this month and beyond visit

essentialsuffolk.com

PRESENTS OMPANY AN C H MK RA AK

Looking for that special Christmas present?

16 – 20 DECEMBER £10, £7 CONCESSIONS £30 FAMILY TICKET

Visit The Wool Room Sleep Studio, we have beautiful British wool blankets, throws and cushions plus, of course, our unique range of wool bedding. Open late until 9pm on Thursdays in December.

Sycamore Farm, Somersham Road Bramford, Ipswich IP8 4NN. T: 01473 831723/07477 090 745

www.thewoolroom.com 16

essentialsuffolk.com

What’s On The BIG Charity Christmas Quiz

Greshams Sports and Social Club, Ipswich, 7pm One of Ipswich’s biggest quiz events, THCC's Charity Quiz Night is back and with a festive theme! Quiz master for the evening will be BBC Radio Suffolk Presenter Mark Murphy....

PLUS Pudsey bear!

Tickets: £4 Information: 01473 230330 Email: info@hearingcarecentre.co.uk

DECEMBER 8 – 12

DECEMBER 12

Cornhill Arts and Craft Christmas Show

Aldeburgh Christmas Lights Celebration

Ipswich Town Hall, 10am – 4:45pm

Moot Hall area from 12 noon

Art and craft work for sale by the Castlehill Art Group.

Entry: Free

Come along and celebrate Christmas! Finish off your shopping in the high street before learning who has won the best dressed window competition. Hear the school carol service, take part in an exciting treasure hunt, have a go in the fairground and see Santa.

Don’t miss fireworks on the beach at 5.30pm.

DECEMBER 11 Frankly Sinatra

Ipswich Regent, 7:30pm DECEMBER 8 Steeleye Span

The Apex, Bury St Edmunds, 8pm Maddy Prior leads a line-up featuring faces old and new, performing new gems from their album ‘Wintersmith’ (in collaboration with Sir Terry Pratchett) alongside classics that have made them one of the most successful British folk rock bands ever.

Tickets: £24 Box Office: 01284 758000 www.theapex.co.uk

The swing, swagger and velvet vocals of Frank Sinatra in concert with Stephen Triffitt.

Tickets: £28 – £26 Box Office: 01473 433100 www.ipswichregent.com

DECEMBER 11 – 24

Farmers Markets

Halesworth Town Centre, 9am – 1pm Woodbridge Community Centre, 9am – 12.30pm Christmas Fayre

John Peel Centre, Church Walk, Stowmarket, Suffolk IP14 1ET Information: 01449 774678 www.johnpeelcentre.com

Ice Rink and Santa’s Grotto

Christmas at Stonham Barns, 10am – 8pm Come and join us for a whoosh and whizz around our synthetic ice rink during this festive time. With skate hire included all you need to do is book your slot and turn up for fantastic fun.

Information: 01449 711111 www.stonhambarns.co.uk

Let’s Hang On

The Apex, Bury St Edmunds, 7:30pm The Music of Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons Tickets: £22 Box Office: 01284 758000 www.theapex.co.uk

WE HAVE THE PERFECT GIFT!

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EssentialSUFFOLK

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DECEMBER 2015

DECEMBER 13

DECEMBER 19

Farmers Markets

Farmers Markets

Assington The Barn, 10am – 2pm

Harkstead Village Hall, 9am – 12 noon Aldeburgh Church Hall, 9am – 12.30 Beccles Heliport, 9am – 1pm Debenham Community Centre, 9am – 1pm

Christmas at Landguard Fort

Landguard Fort, Felixstowe, 1 – 7pm Follow the Santa trail around the fort to discover Santa in his grotto. There will also be live music, story-telling, crafts and woodcarvings plus hot food and drinks.

With carols at 5pm.

Entry: £5 per person, including a visit to Father Christmas and a present for every child.

Santa Sails into Snape

Snape Maltings, 2pm With Santa arriving upriver on a Thames Sailing Barge it feels like Christmas has begun.

Upon arrival Father Christmas will be greeted by his team of elves and will go to his grotto in House & Garden to meet each of the children.

DECEMBER 16

Murphy’s Lore

The Cut, Halesworth, 7:30pm One of the UK’s most established independent folk rock bands whose material often strays across genres as diverse as folk, country, rock and ska, but always retains that distinctive Murphy’s Lore feel and sound.

Tickets: £5 Box Office: 0845 673 2123 www.halesworthartsfestival.org.uk

DECEMBER 19 – JANUARY 3 Aladdin

Ipswich Regent, various times See Christmas Shows pages 20 – 23 Tickets: £22 – £13 Box Office: 01473 433100 www.ipswichregent.com

A Dickensian Christmas at Haughley Park

Haughley Park, Stowmarket, 6:30pm Conservertoire East presents a very special evening of Christmas music and an interpretation of the quintessential ‘A Christmas Carol’ by Charles Dickens and all by candlelight.

Tickets: £22 (concessions £20) Box Office: 01284 769505 www.theatreroyal.org

The Snow Queen

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DECEMBER 5

St Edmundsbury Cathedral, 7pm

DECEMBER 23 – JANUARY 2 Jack and the Beanstalk by Deben Players

Seckford Theatre Woodbridge, 2:30pm & 6:30pm See Christmas Shows pages 20 – 23 Box Office: 0333 666 3366 www.debenplayers.net

The Blacksmith Who Chased the Moon

See Christmas Shows pages 20 – 23 Box Office: 07928 765153 www.commongroundtc.co.uk

Stowmarket is getting a reputation for being the Christmas tree town and this year with 300 decorated trees the show is, for the first time, being extended to the Museum of East Anglian Life. One tree this year is being decorated by loom bands and another will have knitted decorations.

Each tree is decorated to a theme and some of the more unusual trees include one made from buttons by The Regal staff, and a 3D optical illusion tree.

Entry: Free but donations welcome www.stowmarketparishchurch.co.uk

Handel’s Messiah

DECEMBER 28 – 29

Seckford Theatre Woodbridge, 4pm – 7:30pm

St Peter and St Mary’s Church, Stowmarket and Abbot’s Hall, Musuem of East Anglian Life

An enchanting new version of Hans Christian Andersen’s fairy tale adventure, featuring new songs, beautiful costumes and scenery and a host of colourful characters.

Tickets: £12 (concessions £10, family £40) Box Office: 01284 758000 www.theapex.co.uk

DECEMBER 18 – 19 Justin and the Argonauts

by Common Ground

Christmas Tree Festival

The Apex, Bury St Edmunds

The Apex, Bury St Edmunds, 2:15pm A festive selection of heart-warming Christmas songs from the 1940s including songs from Vera Lynn, Bing Crosby, The Andrew Sisters and many more.

Tickets: £15.50 Box Office: 01284 758000 www.theapex.co.uk

DECEMBER 1 – JANUARY 3

DECEMBER 21

DECEMBER 17 D-Day Darlings

CHRISTMAS CAROLS, TREES AND CONCERTS

The Cut, Halesworth, 7:30pm The Devil steals the moon and plunges the town of Halesworth into chaos and only the Blacksmith can save it – but rescuing the moon from the Devil isn’t as easy as it sounds.

Tickets: £10 (concession £9, under 16s £6, family £25) Box Office: 0845 673 2123 www.newcut.org

The Cathedral Choir is joined by the St Edmundsbury Singers and the Suffolk Handel Players, and they are directed by the Cathedral’s Director of Music, James Thomas. The line-up is completed by four young soloists from the Royal Academy of Music: Nardus Williams, Hannah Poulsom, Wagner Moreira Souza and Dominic Bowe.

Tickets: £10 – £20 Box Office: 01284 769505 www.theatreroyal.org Carols by Candlelight

Royal Hospital School, 7pm Holbrook Choral Society, Royal Hospital School Chapel Choir, The Reade Orchestra with William Saunders (Conductor) and Griff Rhys Jones (Narrator). This candlelit Christmas Concert will combine a popular mix of traditional and contemporary carols interspersed with readings and anecdotes from television personality, Griff Rhys Jones.

Tickets: £10 (Concessions £7, Students Free) Box Office: 01473 433100 www.ipswichregent.com

What’s On Seraphim

DECEMBER 15

DECEMBER 19

St Edmunds Church, Southwold, 7.30pm

Carols by Candlelight The Apex, Bury St Edmunds, 7:30pm

Bach at Christmas

Part of the Southwold Concert Series Seraphim will be joined by superb instrumentalists Anna Noakes (flute) and Gabriella Dall’Olio (harp). Alongside Benjamin Britten’s Ceremony of Carols are works by Bach, carols from the Renaissance and 20th Century, and arrangements of English and African folksongs.

Tickets: £12 Box office: 01502 726161

Spirit of Christmas concert by the Locrian Ensemble.

Tickets: £19 Box Office: 01284 758000 www.theapex.co.uk

DECEMBER 8 Carols from Cambridge: The Chapel Choir of Selwyn College Cambridge

St Mary’s Church, Bury St Edmunds, 1:10pm Led by conductor Sarah MacDonald, Selwyn College Choir will present seasonal favourites including traditional carols and arrangements by John Rutter, David Willcocks and Philip Moore.

Tickets: £8.50 Box Office: 01284 769505 www.theatreroyal.org

John Cooper

SSAFA Concert of Carols

St Edmundsbury Cathedral, 7pm Sung by the combined RAF Honington and Wattisham Military Wives Choirs and accompanied by the RAF Honington Voluntary Band, directed by Tom Milford. The Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Families Association (SSAFA) provides support to 50,000 members of the armed forces community, including veterans and families, every year.

Tickets: £12 Box Office: 01284 769505 www.theatreroyal.org

Prelude to Christmas Organ music tracing the Christmas Story www.stmaryletower.org.uk

DECEMBER 17

The Cut, Halesworth, 7:30pm Richard Durrant is not only a world class, virtuoso guitarist, he is a creative force and his Christmas shows are amongst his most beautiful creations. Amy Kakoura, a singer with Greek Irish roots and an almost indescribably stunning voice, joins Richard for their third consecutive Christmas tour.

With the evocative and wintry sound of early music from Christian, pagan and folk traditions as well as many wonderfully distinctive Durrant originals, these concerts have become a much loved part of Christmas for audiences throughout the UK. Tickets: £12 (under 18s £5) Box Office: 0845 673 2123 www.newcut.org

DECEMBER 18

St Edmundsbury Cathedral, 7pm A celebration of Christmas with readings from BBC Radio Suffolk presenters, music from a host of local talent including the Cathedral choir, the Seckford Brass Ensemble, Honey and the Bear and the VIP Accapella Chorus. The concert will be recorded, with highlights to be broadcast on BBC Radio Suffolk throughout the festive period and in a one hour special on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. This event it is in aid of Children in Need with at least 20% of ticket price will go to the charity.

Tickets: £12.50 Box Office: 01284 769505 www.theatreroyal.org

DECEMBER 20 Sing Christmas

Snape Maltings

DECEMBER 13 BBC Radio Suffolk Carol Concert

Aldeburgh Voices, Fellows of the National Youth Choir, The Suffolk Ensemble and Ben Parry conductor. Bach’s wonderfully extrovert and colourful Magnificat remains one of his most popular and joyously uplifting choral works. Now performed all year round, it was first sung during the Christmas Vespers service in Leipzig. It’s preceded by a cantata that was written for Christmas day, using music that later found its way into the grandeur and solemnity of his great B minor mass.

Tickets: £8 – 18 Box Office: 01728 687110 www.aldeburgh.co.uk

St Mary le Tower, Ipswich, 1.10pm

Richard Durrant – Candlelit Christmas Concert DECEMBER 12

Snape Maltings, 6pm

John Wilson Orchestra

Snape Maltings, 7.30pm Have yourself a merry little Christmas!

John Wilson and his star-studded orchestra sprinkle some seasonal magic over the start of the holidays in a concert specially created for our Christmas Weekend. It includes bestloved Christmas songs such as Winter Wonderland, White Christmas, Let it snow, I saw Mummy kissing Santa Claus and music from ballet, theatre and the movies with numbers from The Nutcracker, Lieutenant Kijé, and Mary Poppins.

Tickets: £19 – £42 Box Office: 01728 687110 www.aldeburgh.co.uk

Raise the roof as we sing a mix of carols and classic Christmas songs. Led by Aldeburgh Music’s choirs, we celebrate some of the most popular and best-known Christmas music, from Once in Royal David’s City to Rudolph the Red-nosed Reindeer, Sleigh Ride to Hark the Herald Angels Sing.

With our soloists singing hits from Christmasses past, this is festive fare for children, parents and grandparents to enjoy and join in, a rousing conclusion to a family weekend at Snape Maltings.

Tickets: £5 – £10 Box Office: 01728 687110 www.aldeburgh.co.uk

DECEMBER 22 The Choir of St Mary Le Tower

St Mary Le Tower, Ipswich A programme of festive music with the choristers, choral scholars and adults.

Christopher Borrett, director; William Baldry, organist.

Entry: Free but with retiring collection www.stmaryletower.org.uk

To see more event listings and tell us about your event visit

essentialsuffolk.com/ whats-on-in-suffolk We cannot guarantee inclusion in print but all suitable listings will be included online

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DECEMBER 2015

ON STAGE this CHRISTMAS Nothing beats a festive family trip to the theatre at Christmas to put a smile on everyone’s face. Essential Suffolk takes a look at the shows in store in Suffolk this year

The Sword in the Stone New Wolsey, Ipswich November 26 – January 30 The New Wolsey is famous for breaking new ground when it comes to pantomime season. Its annual Rock ’n’ Roll panto has become a fixture of the festive season with fans making pilgrimages from right across the county – and beyond.

This year it’s gone one stage further with a brand new pantomime, which has been written by the New Wolsey’s Artistic Director, Peter Rowe. He is also directing a creative team which includes musical direction from Ben Goddard, designer Barney George, and for the first time in their pantomime history a magic consultant, Oliver Meech.

Jack and the Beanstalk Theatre Royal, Bury St Edmunds November 27 – January 10 The Theatre Royal promises that this year’s pantomime – about Jack, a handful of beans, a cow and a giant – will be full of magic, music and fun. Written by Chris Hannon and directed by The Theatre Royal’s director, Karen Simpson it offers all you expect from a traditional family pantomime.

The cast for this year’s Jack & The Beanstalk includes many familiar faces from previous years and productions. Oliver Mawdsley joins us as our hero, Jack with Louise Olley as Jill.

Leonie Spilsbury makes a welcome return as Wendy and the Giant’s wife. Alongside her is Chris Clarkson (Duke Box), Alan Mehdizadeh (Ghastly Gordon), Nancy Hill (Sue Chef) and David Zachary as The Giant at the top of the beanstalk.

Also returning is James Parkes who last year made a real impression as an Ugly Sister in Cinderella but this year is stepping into the dame’s shoes as Tina Trumpington.

Box Office: 01284 769505 | www.theatreroyal.org

Aladdin Mercury Colchester November 28 – January 10

The Sword in the Stone is set at the end of a war and the Barbarians have been beaten back! Now the time has come to unite the seven kingdoms together by crowning the bravest knight of all as the rightful King of all the Britons. Join Merlin, Guinevere, Kay and the stunning Dame Bernadette Broadbottom to discover just who pulled the sword from that stone!

The show will include musical numbers like: I’m Going To Rain On Your Parade, You Got The Love, Come On Baby Light My Fire, Backstreet's Back and Rule The World. This year’s cast of talented actor-musicians features several familiar faces from previous New Wolsey Theatre shows including Lucy Wells, Sean Kingsley, Daniel Carter Hope and Adam Langstaff. The Dame will be played by Graham Kent who last visited the New Wolsey Theatre to appear in thriller And Then The Dark.

Box office: 01473 295900 | www.wolseytheatre.co.uk 20

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It’s time to hop on your magic carpet and join Aladdin at the Mercury Theatre Colchester for the adventure of a lifetime this Christmas. It’ s Old Peking where Aladdin dreams of marrying the beautiful Princess Jasmin and providing a better life for his mother, Widow Twanky and brother, Wishee Washee. With the promise of an inheritance to make him as rich as a prince, the wicked magician Abanazer has tricked Aladdin into helping him find a magic lamp hidden in a secret cavern high in the hills. Aladdin soon finds himself trapped with only a battered old lamp for company. It’s only when he rubs the scruffy lamp that his adventure really begins!

Christmas Shows & Pantos Panto favourites Ignatius Anthony, Laura Curnick, Tim Freeman, Sarah Moss, Simon Pontin and Dale Superville are back along with some new faces. Taking on the role of Aladdin will be Glenn Adamson. Glen’s most recent role was in the national tour of Secret Love: The Doris Day Story. Making his Mercury Theatre dame debut will be Antony StuartHicks. Gracie Lai and Colin Burnicle complete the cast.

Doodle Dance Jerwood Dance House, Ipswich December 4 and 5

Box office: 01206 573948 | www.mercurytheatre.co.uk

Alice in Wonderland – A Christmas Spectacular Snape Maltings December 4 – 13

All children love drawing and as some parents will know to their cost that creative efforts can sometimes spread to the walls, the curtains and beyond. Dance Doodle however takes this to a whole different level – so much so that the company guarantees this is the most fun you can have with your family and a giant piece of paper.

Imagine a world where the Mad Hatter invites you to his Christmas tea party with the White Rabbit, or the Queen of Hearts orders you to play croquet with flamingoes! These are just some of the delights in store at Alice in Wonderland by the Co-op Juniors Theatre Company at Snape Maltings Concert Hall. Lewis Carroll’s fabulous story for the whole family celebrates its 150th anniversary this year.

“There's a lot of attention on Alice in Wonderland in this celebratory year,” says director Rebecca Darcy. “We’ve developed an exciting new musical version which plays to the strengths of the Co-op Juniors in music, dance and spectacle yet stays faithful to the spirit of Lewis Carroll’s wonderful book and characters.” A stunning new stage set has been created with magical illusions and special effects which transport the audience to a world like no other, where anything can happen: Wonderland!

The Doodle Dance Show first tour was a sell-out so its back again with a magical journey of friendship and adventure.

Award-winning performers Anna Williams and Tom Roden challenge their audience asking them to dance, scribble or draw a sneeze! All that is required is to grab a pen and kick off your shoes for this playful, interactive story-show. Together you will create a world populated by crazy birds, dancing pirates, strange underwater creatures and maybe more…

Box Office: 01473 295230 | www.danceeast.co.uk

Cinderella Spa Pavilion, Felixstowe December 19 – January 3 This Christmas the Dennis Lowe Theatre Company is celebrating its 50th anniversary with Cinderella and it’s going to be a very special occasion. Not only is this half a century of Christmas fun, laughter, songs, pantomime dames and picture perfect heroes and heroines an achievement all in itself, but, with the re-opening of the Spa Pavilion, it’s very much a celebration for the whole of Felixstowe as well because for the last two years the seafront theatre has been closed and in darkness.

Join Alice as she tumbles down the rabbit hole into a place where she talks to a disappearing Cheshire Cat, strolls around the Queen of Hearts’ beautiful palace garden and is entertained by The Mad Hatter and Caterpillar. With a cast of over one hundred, the Co-op Juniors Theatre Company invites you to experience Wonderland for yourself this December.

This year Cinderella promises a fabulous festive treat. Meet the loveable Buttons, the Ugly Sisters, Evil Stepmother and of course Cinderella, but will she make it to the ball? With all the usual pantomime ingredients, some new twists and a great cast, this Panto is the place to be!

Box office: 01728 687110 | www.aldeburgh.co.uk/spectacular

Box office: 01394 284962 | www.spapavillion.net

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Christmas Shows & Pantos

Aladdin Ipswich Regent December 19 – January 3 After the huge success of last December’s spectacular production of Cinderella, Enchanted Entertainment returns to the Ipswich Regent this Christmas with an even more magical pantomime offering; Aladdin The pantomime features an amazing live band and will be packed with a host of top TV stars. The most successful TV magician of the 20th century Paul Daniels plays The Emperor while platinum-selling recording artist and XFactor runner-up Andy Abraham is Genie of the Lamp.

Disney Channel presenter and West End leading lady Samantha Dorrance will be Princess Jasmine, Chris Stanton ‘Mr Flatley’ from CBBC’s hit children’s TV show M.I. High is Abanazar and hilarious impressionist and Britain’s Got Talent semi-finalist Andrew Fleming plays Wishee Washee.

Ciaran Joyce from 'CBBC's Tracy Beaker and Young Dracula' has the title role and, of course, the lovely Debbie McGee will enchant as Slave of the Ring.

Box office: 01473 433100 | www.ipswichregent.com

Jack and The Beanstalk Seckford Theatre December 23 – January 3 The award-winning Deben Players have been entertaining audiences in Woodbridge since 1964 and this year will be no exception. Their 2015 pantomime is the ever-popular Jack and the Beanstalk and if previous shows are anything to go by it’s a must-see production for everyone in the town.

Written by Andy Kimber it follows the traditional story line – but will Jack triumph over the giant and will he be able to scale the beanstalk? This show is filled with madcap madness, mayhem and lots of singing and laughter. In fact the Deben Players are promising you’ll leave the theatre feeling jubilant.

Box Office: 0333 666 3366 | www.debenplayers.net

The Tale of Mr Tod Avenue Theatre, Ipswich December 10 – January 3 Fed up with writing “goody goody books about nice people” Beatrix Potter turned her hand to creating two of the most dastardly villains of all time: Mr Tod and his nemesis Tommy Brock. It’s this story, which Joanna Carrick has adapted for the Red Rose Chain this Christmas, with an adventurous production that promises mystery, suspense and slapstick.

You’ll get to meet lots of (furry) faces, including: Peter Rabbit, Mrs Tiggy-Winkle, Benjamin Bunny, Flopsy and even the lady herself, the ghost of Beatrix Potter! If you loved Red Rose Chain’s hilarious and moving The Magic Fishbone, then prepare to be bowled over by the inventiveness and fun of Joanna Carrick’s new adaptation.

Box office: 01473 603388 | www.redrosechain.com

Holy Mackerel Sir John Mills Theatre, Ipswich December 2 – January 6 Eastern Angles Theatre Company is back with another hilarious Christmas production which, this year, takes its inspiration from the Newlyn fish riots. This year’s zany new production, Holy Mackerel, has been created for Eastern Angles by Shanty Theatre Company.

Audiences will be transported to the sleepy Cornish port of Newlyn, where there's something troubling afoot. In Victorian times East Anglian seafarers descended on the town taking work away from local fishermen. The result...only a flipping fish riot!

In this production, only one man can save the day and that man is our hapless hero Norman, who proceeds to blunder through calamity after disaster. Expect songs, jokes, lots of costume changes and a smattering of audience participation in this unique and very funny take on fishing history.

Box office: 01473 211498 | www.easternangles.co.uk

Justin and the Argonauts Seckford Theatre, Woodbridge December 18 and 19 St Mary’s Hall, Walton December 28 – 30 Common Ground Theatre Company – Pat Whymark and Julian Harries – are performing Justin & The Argonauts this year and they promise it’ll be epic. The show is based on the ancient myth of a ship full of heroes on a quest for glory but it is given the Common Ground makeover of gags, songs and surreal silliness.

The story begins in 1936. Young Justin Cornelius Pendlebury is cruising the Aegean with his dysfunctional family, when a series of mishaps, including a rather dubious seafood dish and the disappearance of his uncle's wig, send him on a very curious adventure.

Anyone who’s seen one of Common Ground’s Christmas shows will know what's coming: swords, sandals, sea monsters and some very silly gods indeed.

Box Office: 07928 765153 | www.commongroundtc.co.uk

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DECEMBER 2015

picture courtesy of Cameron Maynard apertophotos.com

EXTREME SANTA! Christmas is the season of goodwill and generosity to all men. For those who see this as a great chance to take part in Santa-themed fundraising there are some interesting and challenging Suffolk-based opportunities coming up this month

Father Christmas is always depicted as a rather portly gentleman, the result one suspects of too many mince pies!

For the rest of us the festive season is often as much about avoiding a Santa-shaped waistline as enjoying all the culinary treats in store. So exercising in the great outdoors with the added incentive of helping a charity or good cause is an excellent way of avoiding the TV slump and New Year diet.

Plus whether you choose to run, walk or swim – or even take to the skies – there’s something to challenge even the real adrenalin junkies.

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DECEMBER 6

Santa’s Heveningham Hell Run Heveningham Hall – IP19 0PN In aid of ‘Kids Get Going’ (www.kidsgetgoing.com) a national charity which gives disabled children and young people the wonderful opportunity of participating in sport, the Santa’s Hell run is a 10k cross country trail run described as “arduous” by the organisers.

The multi terrain run takes place in the wonderful grounds of Heveningham Hall with marshals around the course and aid stations approximately every 2.5 kms. All adults (15+) will be provided with a Santa suit complete with hat, coat, beard, trousers and belt. Start time 11am with registration from 10am.

As well as the main run, there is also a 3.3km multi-terrain race for all of Santa’s Little Helpers, starting at 10.30am.

Santa’s Little Helper runners are encouraged to get dressed up in their best elf or fairy outfit with a prize for the ‘Best Dressed Elf’ and ‘Best Dressed Fairy’.

INFORMATION Entry for the Hell run is £10 and for the Little Helpers Run £5.

Entry can be made on the day or via the event website www.runheveningham.co.uk

Santa Charity Events DECEMBER 6

DECEMBER 18

Family Santa Dash, 5k

St Elizabeth Hospice Holly Jump

Millennium Field, Kesgrave, 1.30pm

Beccles Airfield

Set up by friends and the wider community in Kesgrave, this run is fundraising for local teenager Kim Sale, who in May this year was diagnosed with the exceptionally rare cancer Ewing Sarcoma in her calf. Despite intense chemotherapy and surgical treatment the tumor has resulted in the 14-yearold Kesgrave High School pupil having her leg amputated.

Since then local people have been fund-raising with the aim of finding the £20,000 needed to buy Kim a natural-looking silicon leg, which isn’t available on the NHS.

Of course Santa notoriously flies across the skies delivering good will and presents but taking to the air, whether dressed up in traditional red and white – or any colour for that matter – isn’t everyone’s cup of tea. However if a skydive is on your bucket list and jumping out of a plane at the height of 10,000 feet is the sort of adventure that you seek then this St Elizabeth Hospice Christmas challenge might very well tick all the right boxes.

Already more than £13,000 has been donated towards the cost but it is hoped that this run will go a long way towards raising the balance. Lucy Tuck, one of the organisers, said that they have had more than 200 entries so far and thanked Kesgrave Parkrun organisers who have been incredibly supportive, offering not just to mark out the route but marshal on the day as well. Fundraisers, have also been backed by local businesses, have offered a range of prizes for an auction and raffle that will follow the run.

The skydive takes place at Beccles Airfield, Ellough and is organised by UK Parachuting who also provide the Santa Suits. Taking part is free of charge for participants who raise a minimum of £350 for the hospice.

INFORMATION JUSTGIVING page is: crowdfunding.justgiving.com/KimberleySale Entry is at: www.ticketsource.co.uk/date/211826

DECEMBER 13

EACH Santa Run

INFORMATION To book your place visit: www.stelizabethhospice.org.uk/events

Ipswich Town Centre, 10.30am The Santa Run around Ipswich Town Centre has become a bit of a tradition in recent years. Last year for instance hundreds of people donned red and white Santa suits to help raise money for the East Anglian Children’s Hospice. Patsy Johnson-Cisse, EACH Suffolk Fundraising Manager, said: “We’re looking forward to seeing as many people as possible to help us celebrate Christmas and raise valuable funds to ensure we can continue to deliver vital care and support to life-threatened children, young people and their families across Suffolk.”

This year’s Santa run takes a new 3k route around the town and as it’s a very manageable distance it’s ideal for those who are perhaps not quite as fit as they’d like to be. The event starts at 10.30am under the archway of Lloyds Avenue and the entry fees are: Adults £10 (includes Santa suit), children £6 (includes Santa hat).

INFORMATION To register, visit: www.each.org.uk/santarun Telephone: 01473 276196

DECEMBER 26

Aldeburgh Boxing Day Swim Opposite the Moot Hall, 11am Every year, a crowd of very chilly people in Santa hats and swimsuits run into the waves of the North Sea off the coast of Aldeburgh to raise money for charity.

Event organiser, Mark Fairweather says, “Over the years the Aldeburgh Shiverers have raised thousands of pounds for medical charities. We would welcome your support for this year’s swim!” If you want to take part he asks that you should persuade people to sponsor you with any money raised going to Medécins sans Frontières or a medical charity of your choice. Alternatively Mark says you could sponsor the Aldeburgh Christmas Swim page at www.justgiving.com or, make your cheque payable to Medécins sans Frontières and send it to Mark Fairweather at 51 High Street, Leiston Suffolk IP16 4EL. INFORMATION Find Aldeburgh Boxing Day Swim on Facebook

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DECEMBER 2015

make your own

CHRISTMAS WREATH One of the delights of the festive season is the decorating and for those who want to take it one step further Suffolk’s Art for Cure, in association with freelance florists Libby Pearson and Jane Gray, have come up with this ultimate Christmas Wreath

Materials l

Five kinds of foliage e.g. spruce, berried ivy, eucalyptus (populus and baby blue), rosemary, skimmia

l

Dried flowers e.g. dried hydrangea (five or an odd number), dried larkspur, dried nigella seedpods

l

Decorations e.g. rosehips, dried apple slices, pine cones, ribbon

l

Damp moss

Equipment l

l l l l l

A double wire wreath ring (12 – 16 inches depending on the size of your door) Florist wire in a roll Plastic coated individual floral wires Strong scissors Secateurs Gloves (optional)

Method

1. First make the base; attach the reel wire securely to the metal ring then shape your moss into sausage shapes and wire them firmly onto the ring. Work round in the same direction passing the wire round and round the circumference of the frame until the moss is secure. Once you get to the end cut the wire with three or four inches to spare and wrap round several times and finish off by pushing the ends back into the moss.

2. Once the wreath ring is covered in moss you are ready to attach the foliage.

Attach the reel wire to the metal ring securely, then working clockwise lay small clusters of the different foliage together (cut to similar lengths of approximately 4") at a slight angle outwards to the wreath ring and secure by wrapping the reel wire around and around the stems at approx an inch from the base. Repeat this, ensuring you both pull the wire tight and place the foliage on the outer and inner part of the wreath ring to get an even coverage.

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Art for Cure | Christmas Wreaths

6. Create the bow. Take your ribbon and create a loop holding the ribbon with you finger and thumb. Then create a loop on the other side as if you were tying laces but just hold the ribbon in the middle rather than then going underneath. If you want to create a double bow make another two loops. Take a wire and wrap in firmly around the centre where you are holding the ribbon pull tight and at the back cross the wire over and over into a double twist. Put the wire through the wreath and then once again secure it by feeding back in the wreath.

3. At strategic points add your flowers into your foliage selection making sure some are placed on the inside of the wreath and some on the outside.

Use two or three nigella seedpods at a time.

4. Always work in the same direction keep wiring until you get to the join.

At this point you will need to angle your foliage in different directions to hide the join. Wrap your wire round several times so that everything is secured and then cut and feed back into the moss.

7. Finally make a loop to hang your wreath on the door. (A) Take two individual florists wires and work them together bending them into an even u-shape. (B) Push the ends of the wire into the wreath but don’t pull them tight – leave a 2cm loop.

(C) Then push the ends of the wires back through the wreath ring to the loop and (D) twist round and round so they are firmly tied off.

A

B

C

D

INFORMATION

5. Next wire the pinecones, rosehips and apple slices (or whatever you are using) with individual wires. Create a wire loop in an uneven u-shape (so one end is longer than the other) and wrap the shorter end around the stems or hide inside the cone and then double twist to secure. With the long wire that’s left, position your cone, berries or apple on your wreath and thread the wire right through the frame. If necessary you might need to trim it a little but thread the end back into the moss.

The Art for Cure Christmas event at Garden House, Saxmundham was organised by Sally Ball and Belinda Gray and raised £4,000 for the care and cure of breast cancer.

Last year Sally and Belinda raised more than £100,000 for Breakthrough Breast Cancer (now known as Breast Cancer Now) following a garden art and sculpture sale. It was such a success that Art for Cure has now become a grant making charity and next year a second event has been organised from April 30 – May 2 at Glemham Hall.

This second show will include work from more than 80 acclaimed artists of national and local renown. www.artforcure.org.uk

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DECEMBER 2015

Oscalito Italian outerwear tops made with cashmere, cotton and silk with silk and lace trims S – XL from £120 Sweet Dreams

SHADES OF GREY Look perfect in pewter, sensational in silver, or drop dead gorgeous in grey

Striped dress £60 Ninni Noo Boutique

Yaya chunky knit grey gilet £89.95 Laura Jane Boutique Print dress £49.99 Ninni Noo Boutique

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Fashion Poncho £75 Samphire

Essential SUFFOLK

be proud to shop

LOCAL THIS CHRISTMAS

Grey Homespun cashmere hoodie £295 Homespun Becksondergaard Fane fine cotton scarf £35 Collen and Clare

Yaya grey two tone tassel jacket £89.95 Laura Jane Boutique Pikeur Denaria fleece jacket £119 Kings of Suffolk

Wool grey cut out sweater

by Zoe Jordan £310 Chattertons

Prima Donna Deaville in winter grey bra £78.95, brief £35.95 Sweet Dreams

Nicola Sexton grey suede boots with fur lining £245 Hannah Stowe

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DECEMBER 2015

STEPPING OUT Cosy top layers for looking good, whatever the weather

Wool & Cashmere cape by Duffy £329 Chattertons

Merry Christmas to all our customers

Sale StartS December 27 caramel® 140 High Street, Aldeburgh Suffolk IP15 5AQ

caramel® Snape Maltings, Snape Suffolk IP17 1SP

01728 452141

01728 687467

www.caramel-aldeburgh.co.uk essentialsuffolk.com

SUFFOLK

be proud to shop

LOCAL THIS CHRISTMAS

Bariloche tweed jacket £175 Hollyblue Boutique Eliza Scott red coat £250 Samphire

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Essential

Fashion

Faux fur gilet £62 Ninni Noo Boutique

Yest black gilet £50 Adams Apple

Saint James Justine navy/ecru gilet £155 Denny of Southwold Joseph Luke Toscana lambskin coat £1,575 Collen and Clare

French Connection black coat £175 Hollyblue Boutique

360 CASHMERE AMERICAN VINTAGE HIGH DKNY WILDFOX MATCHLESS JBRAND PAIGE MUUBAA VELVET REBECCA TAYLOR SENSO ZOE JORDAN PYRUS CANDICE COOPER DIANE VON FURSTENBERG

18 Market Hill Woodbridge, Suffolk IP12 4LU 01394 385757

R A D I A N T

beauty MEDICAL AESTHETICS

Look 10 years younger WITHOUT SURGERY Gift the Gift of Rejuvenation with RADIANT BEAUTY GIFT VOUCHERS, a perfect Christmas Gift

CHATTERTON’S WOODBRIDGE CELEBRATING

10 YEARS

80 High Street Southwold, Suffolk IP18 6DP 01502 725197

www.chattertonshop.co.uk

Introducing DermapenTM, revolutionary microneedling treatment iÊ iÃÊUÊ7À iÃÊUÊ-V>ÀÀ }Ê -ÌÀiÌV Ê >À ÃÊUÊ* } i Ì>Ì All treatments administered by highly qualified and experienced nurse practitioner Dr. Kathleen Walker

ÊUÊAnti wrinkle injections to relax muscles and dermal fillers to soften deep lines. ÊUÊMild and moderate chemical peels. ÊUÊTreatment for facial veins, sun damage and age spots. ÊUÊMicro dermabrasion. ÊUÊPermanent hair reduction.

Treatments offered at Radiant Beautiful Medical in Woodbridge.

Nether Haugh, 6 North Hill, Woodbridge, Suffolk IP12 1HH t: 01394 386887 e: kathy@drkathywalker.com www.drkathywalker.com

EssentialSUFFOLK

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Fashion

DECEMBER 2015

BEST FOOT FORWARD Tan Boots £159 Laura Jane Boutique

Laura Vita Teflon £110 Holly Blue Boutique

Tony Bianco polo mocha boots £165 Samphire

Brown ankle boots £64.99 Ninni Noo Boutique

Brown knee high boots £165 Hannah Stowe

STOCKISTS Adams Apple 70 Thoroughfare, Woodbridge. T: 01394 384685 Chattertons 80 High Street, Southwold & 18 Market Hill, Woodbridge. T: 01394 385757 www.chattertonshop.co.uk Collen & Clare 25 Market Place, Southwold & 164 High Street, Aldeburgh. T: 01502 724823 www.collenandclare.com Denny of Southwold 11 Market Place, Southwold. T: 01502 722372 www.dennyofsouthwold.co.uk Hannah Stowe 20a Market Hill, Woodbridge. T: 01394 382691 www.hannahstowe.co.uk Holly Blue Boutique 72 Thoroughfare, Woodbridge. T: 01394 382300 Homespun 1 Market Hill, Woodbridge. T: 01394 383834 www.homespuncashmere.com Kings of Suffolk Grange Farm Barn, Hasketon, Woodbridge. T: 01473 738237 www.kingsofsuffolk.co.uk Laura Jane Boutique 89/91 Thoroughfare, Woodbridge. T: 01394 386686 Ninni Noo Boutique 57 Thoroughfare, Woodbridge. T: 01394 388655 Samphire Snape Maltings. T: 01728 688303 www.snapemaltings.co.uk Sweet Dreams 45a Thoroughfare, Woodbridge. T: 01394 380306

AUTUMN/WINTER COLLECTION NOW IN

SHOES|BOOTS|CASHMERE|BAGS|SCARVES|GLOVES

Open Monday to Saturday 9.30am – 5.15pm Throughout December Open Sunday 11.30am – 3.30pm 20a Market Hill, Woodbridge IP12 4LU Tel: 01394 382691 www.hannahstowe.co.uk | hello@hannahstowe.co.uk

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essentialsuffolk.com

ADINI ARIA EMRECO SIGNATURE MARBLE GARDEUR IN TOWN POMODORO MONARI MICHELE YEST 70 Thoroughfare Woodbridge 01394 384685

Gift Vouchers Available. Merry Christmas!

Finance

THE EFFECT OF THE VW SCANDAL ON COMPANY CAR BENEFIT

Faye Howard

If you were looking for a company car, would you consider a diesel model? Prior to the VW scandal, the answer may well have been yes. Better fuel consumption, higher residual values, and the fact that the 3% diesel surcharge for diesel company cars is currently due to be abolished from April 2016, all combined to make diesel cars an attractive option for fleet managers and company car drivers. However, the recent VW scandal may significantly change this view.

If the CO2 figures for diesel vehicles are significantly higher than previously stated, then the current benefit in kind system is structured in such a way that diesel cars are likely to become much less attractive than their equivalent petrol models because they may well leave the company car driver with a considerably increased tax bill in future. This could therefore effectively sound a death knell to the diesel company car almost overnight.

So what does the VW situation mean for current company company car drivers with diesel cars? HMRC have confirmed that existing arrangements will not be affected, as any taxable benefit is calculated based on the CO2 figures shown on the car’s UK or EU approval certificate and these will not be amended for cars already in circulation. This therefore appears to be good news for those with existing diesel company cars, but will the basis of the car benefit charge be changed in the future?

At the time of writing, it is still not clear whether this issue is restricted to VW or whether other manufacturers will also be affected, but clearly the issue has created considerable uncertainty. If you are looking to change your company car or reviewing your fleet then do talk to us as we can offer advice on the current system of company car taxation and also keep you abreast of any changes as they occur.

In 2002, the basis on which the car benefit charge was calculated was changed to take into account the amount of CO2 emissions the vehicle in question produced. This was to encourage the use of more fuel-efficient, less polluting vehicles, however with the admission by VW that nitrogen oxide pollutants on some of its models are 40 times the US limit, how will this affect the CO2 figures going forward?

Faye Howard is Private Client Tax Director at Scrutton Bland. If you are interested in arranging a no obligation meeting to see if she can help advise you on taxable benefits on your company car, please do not hesitate to contact her on 01473 267000 or faye.howard@scruttonbland.co.uk On behalf of everyone at Scrutton Bland, we would like to wish you a very Happy Christmas and New Year!

Tight muscles?

We have the team to help

Charlotte Cattermole is a professionally trained sports masseuse.

From head to toe, sports massage is an excellent way to relieve muscular tightness. Uniquely, in Suffolk, under one roof our team of specialists offer the following solutions: Osteopathy • Physiotherapy • Spinal Surgery • Upper & Lower Limb Surgery • Chirpody/Podiatry • Pilates • Acupuncture & Hypnotherapy • Cognitive Behavioural Therapy • Health Screening Diagnostic Imaging • Massage • Cosmetic Treatments Contact us today and let your recovery begin.

10 Fonnereau Road, Ipswich IP1 3JP (01473) 217592 www.gilmourpiper.co.uk practice@gilmourpiper.co.uk

Excellence in musculoskeletal healthcare EssentialSUFFOLK

33

ANDREWGILMOUR

AG AND ASSOCIATES

osteopathy and physiotherapy sports injury treatment • Osteopathy • Physiotherapy • Sports & Exercise and Musculosketal Medicine • Physiotherapy -based Pilates

• Psychotherapy including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy

ENHANCE YOUR SMILE

• Chronic pain management programmes

Specialist orthodontic care for all ages

• MRI and Imaging Services • Nutrition and Naturopathy

Call 01473 255399 to arrange a consultation

• Adults & children treated • Tooth coloured ceramic fixed braces • Invisible braces • Teeth whitening • Interest free payments • Free onsite parking

Tollgate Cottage, Yarmouth Road Melton, Woodbridge, IP12 1QF 01394 387818 www.gilmourosteo.co.uk e-mail: reception@gilmourosteo.co.uk

72 Berners Street, Ipswich IP1 3LU www.ipswich-orthodontics.co.uk

FESTIVE INDULGENCE… Replenish and revitalise at Bathsheba this winter

Indulge in a luxurious REN body exfoliation or mineral soak in our cast iron bath tub before a rehydrating full body massage with Moroccan rose oil or a rejuvenating radiance facial, perfect as a pre-party treat to get you in the mood for the festive season.

GIFT VOUCHERS AVAILABLE

GIVE THE PERFECT GIFT THIS CHRISTMAS – CHOOSE FROM OUR BEAUTIFUL RANGE OF REN GIFT BOXES

A modern, boutique day spa.

An oasis of calm and self spoiling.

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essentialsuffolk.com

24 Church Street, Woodbridge t: 01394 388813 e: spa.bathsheba@gmail.com www.bathshebaspa.co.uk Monday – Saturday: 9.30am – 6.30pm Thursday (late night) until 8.30pm

Health

LOOK AFTER YOUR FEET

winter is coming!

As winter approaches, the cold weather can affect the bones in our bodies and play havoc with feet too. Feet tend to get attention during the summer months as we pull out flip-flops and sandals to put them on display, but with the change in seasons, we often put them in winter boots and put their care to the back of our minds. Being aware of sensations such as cold feet is important however.

Although they are usually nothing to worry about, it may be a sign of a medical issue. Many cardiovascular conditions, diabetes and other health problems can cause cold feet, and the severity of these problems can vary.

Those who suspect that their cold feet could be the result of a health concern should consult their doctor immediately.

In addition Dr Campbell Wareham, Consultant Podiatric Surgeon at Nuffield Health Ipswich Hospital advises, “Ideally you should purchase good quality winter shoes. The onset of winter coincides with enclosed shoes and the potential that has for the development of pain in the big toe and to some degree the lesser toes. Bunions and hammer toes generally become uncomfortable at this time. My suggestion is look towards roomy shoes and those with extra toe depth at the front. A consultation with a either a Podiatrist or Consultant Podiatric Surgeon may be also be helpful if pain is stopping you doing what you love.”

SOCKS TAKING CARE OF YOUR FEET IN WINTER – START WITH YOUR SHOES Mr Mark Bowditch, Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon at Nuffield Health Ipswich Hospital says, “Winter brings shoes and boots of all styles... but also with it a mixture of foot and ankle problems. The Achilles' tendon at the back can be irritated by poor fitting heel cups and best dealt with by shoe modification or pressure unloading.

Skiers out there should get their ski boots properly fitted – they do require a tight fit but can cause pressure points, best dealt with by considering insoles to equally load the foot.”

The best way to deal with cold feet is to prevent heat loss by keeping your feet warm and dry, and wearing natural fiber socks (e.g. wool) is advisable. If you suffer from cold sweaty feet then you could wear a thin synthetic sock to absorb moisture to a thicker outer sock.

WINTER BONES – ARTHRITIS Although there is no medical evidence to prove arthritis is affected by the cold, many people suffering from the condition complain that their arthritis is more painful in the winter months.

Arthritis is a common condition that causes pain and inflammation in the joints. The most common types of arthritis are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

Whilst there is no magic cure for arthritis, there are many treatments that can slow down the condition.

For osteoarthritis, painkillers, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and corticosteroids are recommended; however in severe cases a referral to an orthopaedic consultant may be required for specialist treatment.

When treating rheumatoid arthritis, the aim is to slow down the condition and minimise damage to the joints therefore painkillers and disease modifying anti- rheumatic drugs are recommended. Physiotherapy and regular exercise can also help.

WALK SOFTLY The cold weather can lead to slippery and potentially dangerous pavements and roads. Even with a good shoe with adequate grip it is advisable to walk softly and not to make any sudden movements. Ankle sprains, breaks and ligament tears are common during winter months.

It is important to always consult your GP for advice on any symptoms initially and to discuss referral options. Even if you don’t have private medical insurance, you can still ask for a referral as a self-paying patient to Nuffield Health Ipswich Hospital.

If you have any questions, or would like further information on how to book a private consultation with Mr Bowditch, Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon, or Dr Wareham, Consultant Podiatric Surgeon, please get in touch on 01473 852 574 or email ipswich.enquiries@nuffieldhealth.com to get the treatment you need and get back to the life you love. Nuffield Health Ipswich Hospital provides a wide range of treatments and expert consultants in orthopaedics, podiatry and rheumatology as well as on-site diagnostic imaging facilities and physiotherapy.

Find out more at www.nuffieldhealth.com/ipswichhospital.

EssentialSUFFOLK

35

Legal

DECEMBER 2015

ALL CHANGE FOR EUROPEAN HOLIDAY HOMES The European Union’s Regulation 650/2012, which came into force in August 2015, covers the ‘jurisdiction, applicable law and enforcement of instruments in matters of succession’. In other words, it regulates the validity of Wills and the probate rules applying to individuals who die owning assets or resident in European nations. This is good news. More and more British people take up residence or own assets on the continent.

The conflicting rules on succession in the 28 EU nations hinder the free movement of persons and present a difficulty for the bereaved family. From the UK’s point of view, the alien concept of “forced heirship”, common in continental nations, whereby children and family cannot be disinherited by Will, can cause costly disputes following death.

The Regulation covers the key question of cross border successions; which country’s laws are to apply? The question is difficult because countries apply different tests when deciding which state has jurisdiction. These include location of immovable property (bricks and mortar), nationality and habitual residence. As of 17th August there are only two tests.

Either the ‘habitual residence’ or ‘choice of law’ rules apply, the latter enabling a Will maker to choose the law applicable by making a statement in his Will.

In practice, the habitual residence test may prove troublesome to implement and it may be preferable to have made the choice

36

essentialsuffolk.com

Chris Cumberbatch

by Will, bearing in mind that this is restricted to the country(ies) of one’s nationality. Thus an English citizen owning property in France, whether living in Paris or London, can choose in his Will for the property to be subject to English law.

Given our present fear of all things European, the UK has decided to opt out of the Regulation. Ironically, this will affect UK citizens much less than their EU counterparts, because UK citizens holding assets in EU countries will be able to benefit from the rules, while EU citizens holding assets in the UK will not.

However, there is a catch, the Regulation does not cover taxation, which remains controlled by the state in which the asset is held. Careful consideration should therefore be given to tax planning before making a choice of law, as the tax consequences of a change to English law may be unfavourable.

For further information please contact Chris Cumberbatch at Marshall Hatchick Solicitors.

With offices in Woodbridge, Saxmundham, Aldeburgh and London, Marshall Hatchick Solicitors focuses on providing the very best legal support and care for local people and businesses. If you have any concerns of a legal nature we are here to assist, and deal with initial enquiries on a no-obligation or cost basis. For contact details visit www.marshallhatchick.co.uk

Essential SUFFOLK

be proud to shop

LOCAL THIS CHRISTMAS

The Essential guide to

gorgeous

GIFTS 14 pages of inspiring Christmas shopping ideas from leading independent Suffolk retailers

DECEMBER 2015

Canvas washbag £20, make up bag £17 Love One

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Amber perfume by Laboratory Perfumes 100ml £55 Chattertons

Cotton pink print pyjamas by Rose & Rose £99 Chattertons

Tan bag £36 Adams Apple

gifts for her

d Kapre merino wool wrap scarf £45 Denny of Southwold

Ladies glasses case £11.50 Caramel Snape Maltings

Homespun cashmere socks £22 Homespun

Catherine Tough lambswool socks, various designs, £24 (pair) Love One

Gift Vouchers available from Radiant Beauty

STOCKISTS Adams Apple 70 Thoroughfare, Woodbridge. T: 01394 384685 Cake & Catwalk The Jerwood Dance House, Foundry Lane, The Waterfront, Ipswich & 15 St Peter’s Street, Ipswich.

T: 01473 235573 www.cakeandcatwalk.co.uk Caramel Snape Maltings. T: 01728 687467 www.caramel-aldeburgh.co.uk Chattertons 80 High Street, Southwold & 18 Market Hill, Woodbridge. T: 01394 385757 www.chattertonshop.co.uk Denny of Southwold 11 Market Place, Southwold. T: 01502 722372 www.dennyofsouthwold.co.uk

Christmas Gift Guide | Gifts for Her

d Jellycat red bobble penguin £9, blue bobble penguin £9, small bashful penguin £11 Love One

Nooki crackled gold coin purse £19.95 Happiness Store

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Leather clutch bags, various designs, £50 (each) Cake & Catwalk

Harness leather coin purse Santa and snowman £12 each Denny of Southwold Burberry check scarf £15 Adams Apple

Mac Scottie key ring £8.50 Glasswells

Wristees adult and child sizes. From £8 Caramel Snape Maltings

British designed 100% wool hat £26, ladies gloves various designs and colours £17 (pair) Cake & Catwalk

Joss & Florence tunic with sequined cuffs £45, Girls & Pearls black and silver chain necklace £16 Cake & Catwalk

Multi coloured scrunch scarf £15 Adams Apple

STOCKISTS Glasswells Ranelagh Road, Ipswich or Newmarket Road Bury St Edmunds. T: 01473 253164 www.glasswells.co.uk Happiness Store Ltd 6a Thoroughfare, Woodbridge. T: 01394 548815 Homespun 1 Market Hill, Woodbridge. T: 01394 383834 www.homespuncashmere.com Love One 21 St Peter’s Street, Ipswich. T: 07711 517787 E: cathy@loveone.co.uk Radiant Beauty Nether Haugh, 6 North Hill, Woodbridge. T: 01394 386887 www.drkathywalker.com

Christmas Gift Guide | Gifts for Him

DECEMBER 2015

gifts for him

Miniature golf bag with pens (red, blue & black) £20 Merchant House Interiors

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Shirt case £34.99 Glasswells Simon Carter Darwin penguin cufflinks £75 O&C Butcher

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Timberland Kick Around mule £50 O&C Butcher

Tweed laptop sleeve £34.99 Glasswells

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Sonia Spencer Mad Hatter cufflinks £29.95 Caramel Snape Maltings

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Ashwood leather overnight bag £195 Denny of Southwold

Dalaco novelty cufflinks watering cans £19.95 Denny of Southwold

Mens manicure set £10 Merchant House Interiors

Gianni Conti Italian leather wallets from £29 Denny of Southwold

Shirt folding board £19.99 Glasswells

STOCKISTS Caramel Snape Maltings. T: 01728 687467 www.caramel-aldeburgh.co.uk Denny of Southwold 11 Market Place, Southwold. T: 01502 722372 www.dennyofsouthwold.co.uk Glasswells Ranelagh Road, Ipswich or Newmarket Road, Bury St Edmunds. T: 01473 253164 www.glasswells.co.uk Merchant House Interiors 27 – 29 St Peter’s Street, Ipswich. T: 01473 221054 O&C Butcher 129 – 131 High Street, Aldeburgh. T: 01728 452229 www.ocbutcher.co.uk

Christmas Gift Guide | Gifts for the Home

Christmas pigs tray £12.99 Glasswells

Once Upon a Time bookmark £15 Happiness Store

Touch Wood keyring £10 Happiness Store

gifts for the home

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Branche d ‘Olive scented silver heart £15.50 Happiness Store

“Your friendship is the best gift at Christmas” jar £10.50 Barretts of Woodbridge

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Bella Freud candle £40 Collen & Clare

Sophie Allport Winter Wonderland double over gloves £15 Barretts of Woodbridge

Marmalade & preserve tasting set £9.99 Glasswells

Blue radio shortbread tin £9.99 Glasswells

STOCKISTS Barretts of Woodbridge 40 – 42 Thoroughfare, Woodbridge. T: 01394 384300 www.barretts.co.uk Collen & Clare 25 Market Place, Southwold & 164 High Street, Aldeburgh. T: 01502 724823 www.collenandclare.com Glasswells Ranelagh Road, Ipswich or Newmarket Road, Bury St Edmunds. T: 01473 253164 www.glasswells.co.uk Happiness Store Ltd 6a Thoroughfare, Woodbridge. T: 01394 548815

Christmas Gift Guide | Collen & Clare

DECEMBER 2015

Ugg lodge boot £190

d

d Terrible Twins soap £8

TerribleTwins liquid soap £18

John Smedley rollneck £105 Anna & Nina moon drop earrings £45

British Belt Company leather satchel £250

d Barbour Man Triumph Collaboration wax jacket £429

Sorel Man Ankeny boot £100

Newgate watch £135

25 Market Place, Southwold Suffolk IP18 6ED T: 01502 724823

Joseph Shearling Anais short Toscana coat £1,325

164 High Street, Aldeburgh Suffolk IP15 5AQ T: 01728 454976 www.collenandclare.com

Christmas Gift Guide | O&C Butcher

And Mary baby snow owl porcelain necklace £25

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Barbour tweed explorer bag £249

Burlington sock sandwich £25

Millican Joe The iPad Cover £50

Ruby + Ed pom keyring £24

GANT Jacquard lambswool crew sweater £135

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d Schoffel Mayfair down coat £350

Dubarry Longford boots £335

129-131 High Street Aldeburgh Suffolk IP15 5AS

Barbour Banbury Tattersall lambswool scarf £35

Modalu Erin tote £229

T: 01728 452229 info@ocbutcher.co.uk www.ocbutcher.co.uk

DECEMBER 2015 Prima Donna Twist Tresor in black body shaper £97.95 Sweet Dreams

Laura Vita ankle boots £120 Holly Blue Boutique

d Taifan print top £55 Holly Blue Boutique

Love Smith Cadillac scarf £45 Holly Blue Boutique

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Tan bag £45 Holly Blue Boutique

Tan bag £48 Ninni Noo Boutique

Tunic dress £39.99 Ninni Noo Boutique

Marie Jo L’Adventure ‘Bob’ bra £70.95 briefs from £29.95 Sweet Dreams

Black and tan belts £49 each Holly Blue Boutique

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Lace up ankle boots £75 Ninni Noo Boutique

Olive slouch bag (available in a selection of colours) £39.99 Laura Jane Boutique

THE HEART OF

72 Thoroughfare, Woodbridge T: 01394 382300

89/91 Thoroughfare, Woodbridge T: 01394 386686

Christmas Gift Guide | Heart of Woodbridge

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Red satchel bag (available is a selection of colours) £39.99 Laura Jane Boutique

Chunky knit bobble hat £20 matching snood £25 Ninni Noo Boutique

Checked blanket wrap £59 Laura Jane Boutique

Marie Jo Avero in deep red Heart shaped bra £65.95 strapless bra £57.95 Rio Brief £31.95 Sweet Dreams

d Fur-lined brown leather boots £149 Laura Jane Boutique

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DKNY fleece loungewear set in grey marl, also available in charcoal £57 for the set Sweet Dreams

Aztec style necklace £20 Ninni Noo Boutique

Charnos’s new Second Skin breathes like cotton, is anti static and doesn’t pill, Cami top £15, Leggings £20.

Long sleeved top also available Sweet Dreams

Stag print scarf £39.99 Laura Jane Boutique

THE HEART OF

57 Thoroughfare, Woodbridge T: 01394 388655

45a Thoroughfare, Woodbridge T: 01394 380306 www.sweetdreams-lingerie.co.uk

Christmas Gift Guide | Fox’s Marine & Country

DECEMBER 2015

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Musto mens zip kneck sweater £89.99

Garmin Montana 600 hand held GPS £339.95 Leatherman Skeletool £68.95

d Gill race sailing watch £69

Tilley Outback unisex wax hat £67

Barbour Tors ladies wax parka £269

d Orkney unisex leather country boots £175

Joules Laverton leather bag £99.95 The Thames – A Photographic Journey £19.99

Fox's Marina, Ipswich, Suffolk, IP2 8NJ T: 01473 688431 E: info@foxsmarineandcountry.com www.foxsmarineandcountry.com

d Opening Hours Monday to Saturday 9am to 5.30pm Sunday 10am to 4pm Christmas Eve 9am to 2pm

Christmas Gift Guide | Maud’s Attic / House In Town / Merchant House

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Set of 10 stag shot glasses in presentation box £154 Merchant House Interiors

Dress ring £14 Maud’s Attic

Wall Hanging T-Rex head £68 (large) or £115 (extra large) House in Town

Wooden Portman Road Sign £40 House in Town

d Golf club cuff links (also available golf balls, deck of cards, cricket stumps) £15 pair Merchant House Interiors

Poison pewter tumbler £24 Merchant House Interiors

25 St Peter’s Street, Ipswich T: 01473 221057 Open 10am to 5:30pm

Hand mirror £12, compact £10, trinket box £14 Maud’s Attic

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Frame handbag £58 Maud’s Attic

Bronze effect skull table decoration £30 House in Town

THE HOUSE IN TOWN

MERCHANT HOUSE

23 St Peter’s Street, Ipswich T: 01473 211145 www.houseintown.co.uk Open Sunday and Monday 11am to 4pm Tuesday to Saturday 10am to 5pm

27 to 29 St Peter’s Street, Ipswich T: 01473 221054 Open Tuesday to Saturday 10am to 5pm

INTERIORS

Christmas Gift Guide | Kings of Suffolk

DECEMBER 2015

d Annabel Brocks beige, green and purple tweed colar £45

Pikeur scarf £32, hat £24

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Gersemi jacket £169

Cavallo bobble hat £25 Kanyon waterproof boots £114.95

Me to You Mug £16

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BRBL socks £15

Barbour sheep print hat £29.95

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Grange Farm, Grundisburgh Road Hasketon, Woodbridge Suffolk IP13 6HN

Ariat chunky snood £29

Woody the walking talking horse £24.95

T: 01473 738237 www.kingsofsuffolk.co.uk

Christmas Gift Guide | Snape Maltings Beautiful, colourful and unusual children’s books to treasure, £14.99 and £9.99.

Browse our selection in Little Rascals

Blue jumbo mug (also available in other colours) £8*

Candles from £3.50 each*

Bohemian alphabet coasters £4 each*

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Botanique rice bowls, from a wide selection of Japanese tableware £5.75 each*

Bright mohair throw £95*

Gold vermeil chandelier earrings £135, available in a variety of semi-precious stones, available in the Gallery

Cerise sequined gaddi cushion handmade and fair trade £26*

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Traditional Moroccan glass hand blown and hand painted £4.50 each*

Chrome alarm clock £20*

* Items available from House & Garden

Snape Maltings, near Aldeburgh Suffolk IP17 1SR T: 01728 688303 www.snapemaltings.co.uk

Snape Maltings is a unique collection of shops & galleries.

Open Monday to Saturday from 10am, Sunday from 10.30am

Christmas Gift Guide | Stuart Clay Traps

DECEMBER 2015 Gunteen tweed coat £155

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House of Cheviot wool blend stockings £30

Laksen Glennan tweed breeks £275

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Abu Garcia Amassadeur sea fishing reel £130

Imax Boat 7ft 8 fishing rod £79.99

Laksen Glennan tweed coat £450

Bonart checked shirt £35

Laksen zip neck jumper £99

3a & 3b Wilford Bridge Road Melton, Woodbridge Suffolk IP12 1RB

Laksen clay waterproof jacket £140

STUART CLAY TRAPS

T: 01394 385567 sales@stuartsgunandtackle.com www.stuartsgunandtackle.com

Christmas Gift Guide | Elmers

Draper 122pce drill & bit set 40471 SSP £74.75 Elmers price £24.99

MakitaDk1493wx 10.8v twinpack (combi drill+impact driver) List £337.20 Elmers price £129.99

d Faithfull 6pce ratchet spanner set SSP £49.99 Elmers price £19.99

Judge Sabatier Pp135n 7pce knife block set SSP £72 Elmers price £27.99

2 in 1 Nebo Slyde flashlight and work light. High-power 150 lumen led flashlight/ 190 lumen cob work light. Work light is concealed inside the flashlight body; just slyde to reveal. With powerful magnetic base. SSP £29.99 Elmers price £24.99

d d Chaplewood Cpw1621 complete wild bird dining station (with feeders) SSP £34.99 Elmers price £27.99

Bosch Pwb600 workbench SSP £129.99 Elmers price £89.99 Tower T12008 blender (glass jug) SSP £59.99 now ½ price £29.99

Spear & Jackson stainless steel trowel & fork gift set SSP £13.99 Elmers price £8.99

LARGE RANGE OF GIFT IDEAS FOR THE GARDENER, CHEF AND HOBBY/DIY ENTHUSIAST

E L M E R S H A R DWA R E 59 – 61 Edmonton Road, Kesgrave, Suffolk • 01473 623381 • www.elmershardware.co.uk

DECEMBER 2015

If you love Suffolk and you love books what could be a better Christmas gift than a book that’s written in or about Suffolk. Here’s the Essential Suffolk selection for 2015

SUFFOLK’S LITERARY CHRISTMAS LIST SUFFOLK FEAST: ONE COUNTY, TWENTY CHEFS

farm gates to us. We hope you enjoy reading their stories, recreating the recipes and of course eating in the wonderful restaurants!”

By Glynn Williams and Tessa Allingham INFORMATION The book is available at the 20 profiled restaurants, selected farmers markets and the Aldeburgh Bookshop priced £19.95. www.suffolkfeast.co.uk

SCOOP

By Nick Garnham

Living in Suffolk, people who love good food and great ingredients should really count their blessings because of the sheer quality of the food which is produced here. This book very much celebrates our bounteous harvest championing Suffolk produce from field to table. Packed with gorgeous photography, recipes and chef interviews it offers a comprehensive food lovers’ guide to the county. It explores the vital relationship between chefs and their suppliers and is quite simply a must-have cookbook.

If you are a Suffolk sports fan, loving cricket in the summer and football in the winter, this book makes the ultimate Christmas read. Written by sports journalist Nick Garnham it takes you behind the headlines of his 32 years at Archant covering all sorts of quirky stories and anecdotes – like the day a Test Match umpire took the players back out onto the Victory Ground in Bury St Edmunds because a tea lady was not ready!

Scoop also contains a whole host of stories featuring clubs and sportsmen from Suffolk and beyond with personalities from cricket and football clubs across the county. There are interviews with all 12 of the Ipswich Town players who were involved in the 1978 FA Cup Final victory over Arsenal at Wembley, plus several past and present Suffolk and Essex cricketers.

Written by local food writers Glyn Williams and Tessa Allingham, and with a foreword by Emma Freud, the book is a passionately enthusiastic celebration of Suffolk’s food and farming heritage, as well as the extraordinary skills of some of its chefs. “We are blessed with some astonishing cooking talent in this county – contemporary chefs who explode with enthusiasm, dedication and a genuine understanding of the land in which they are working,” says Emma.

Other stories feature sportsmen to be knighted including Sir Bobby Robson, Sir Alf Ramsey, Sir Bobby Charlton, Sir Viv Richards, Sir Ian Botham and Sir Richard Hadlee.

“Creating this book has been a thrilling foodie journey,” say Glyn and Tessa. “We are hugely grateful to every one of our 20 chefs and producers for opening their kitchen doors and

INFORMATION Published by JMD Media Ltd, £14.99 www.scoopbook.co.uk

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Books for Christmas

ELIDA THE SPIDER

By Janet Wightman and illustrated by Christine Clements

Here’s a delightful picture book very much for the youngest members of the household centered around the stories of a very special spider. Elida has seven short legs and one magical long leg and she lives with Morris the Mouse and Boris ugly old cat. This is a story of how they conspire together to outwit Lady Mac, who owns the house they live in.

Author Janet Wightman, who lives in Otley says the story came to her one day years ago when she was out walking with her husband. “I have had a really busy life but now that I have retired I decided that it was time to write the book.

I hope the children who read it enjoy it.”

INFORMATION Elida the Spider is £4.99 www.elidabooks.co.uk

IN THE COUNTRY

THE SUFFOLK COOK BOOK

By David Gentleman

Meze Publishing

Some say that you have to be in Suffolk for many a long year before you can say that you know it well. This book of words and pictures very much ticks that box, having been created over 35 years by David Gentleman. It’s based on his life in a 16th century end-of-terrace house on the edge of a small rural village in mid-Suffolk and it’s earned praise from almost everyone who’s seen it, not least from writer and Suffolk authority Ronald Blythe. “Gentleman’s Suffolk – a kind of soaring levelness, golden, its distances measured by threatened oaks, its villages sheltering in the Blyth valley... His drawings of it are a revelation.”

Featuring over 45 exquisite recipes from some of Suffolk's finest independent restaurants, cafes, delicatessens, pubs, farm shops, producers and suppliers this 192-page full colour book features guest recipes from a few well-known local faces.

In the Country is an intimate portrait of a time and place observed by a masterly artist and writer with an unerring eye for domestic detail and the profusion of plant and animal life around him. He writes: “We hear ducks and moorhens in the stream and in our neighbours' lake; there are rats, mice, voles and shrews that our cat catches, torments, tosses about, loses and then forgets; there are toads in the shed, crested newts in the cellar… on the field in front of the house we see hares boxing, and foxes, muntjacs, pheasants and rabbits, and until recently, hedgehogs...”

These include Ipswich Town football manager Mick McCarthy, Radio 4 presenter Martha Kearney who also took part in the 2013 Comic Relief Bake Off, and Britain's most famous pig farmer Jimmy Doherty. He said: "I started my Suffolk farm 12 years ago with an aim to harness and put into practice some of the more traditional British farming methods to produce good quality, fresh, seasonal food as naturally as possible.

I wanted to trade tasteless, ore-packed, mass-produced rubbish for real food, and get back to basics. It's so great to see local producers, shops and restaurants working together towards a common goal of putting great British food on the map, and I for one am happy to be a part of it."

The book offers recipes, stories and anecdotes from wellestablished businesses, newcomers and the personalities behind the vibrant Suffolk food and drink scene.

While never claiming to be a study of the whole region, it evokes a countryside which in many ways represents England as a whole, seen through the eyes of an artist of international renown. It is an invitation to share his wealth of rural experience, capturing for readers a way of life once transient and timeless.

INFORMATION In The Country, £25 is published by Full Circle editions. (isbn 978-0-9571528-5-4)

INFORMATION The Suffolk Cook Book is £14.95 and can be ordered online as well as being available in all of the businesses featured in the book.

Stockists can also be found on twitter @SuffolkCookBook

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DECEMBER 2015

FIVE festive treats Essential Suffolk has once again caught up with five leading local chefs to bring you some delicious recipe suggestions for your festive feasts. For some time will be at a premium so there are some ideas to give maximum satisfaction from only minutes of preparation, while others will take a little longer but will be well worth it.

We hope you enjoy them all

Mum’s Christmas sherry log From Mark Allen Executive Head Chef at The Angel Inn, Monks Eleigh | www.angelinnsuffolk.co.uk

Mum’s Sherry Log has been my Christmas favourite for many years.

It's a really simple dessert, but a real Christmas treat.

INGREDIENTS 1 pack of chocolate cookies 125ml sweet sherry 450ml double cream 1 vanilla pod 10g of castor sugar Chocolate flakes 1 piping bag with a star nozzle

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METHOD 1. To start, put the sherry into a small dish and set to one side.

2. Pour the double cream into a large bowl add the sugar and seeds from the vanilla pod and whisk until the cream holds soft peaks.

3. Put the cream into a piping bag refrigerate for one hour, after which, you are ready to assemble.

4. You will need a long plate for this dessert. Dip one cookie in the sherry and pipe a rosette of cream on the back of the cookie, repeat and sandwich together until you use all the biscuits.

5. Pipe the remaining cream over the log and sprinkle with chocolate flakes or your chosen decorations. Refrigerate overnight to allow the cookies to soften, and you are ready to serve your Christmas Sherry Log.

Christmas Recipes

British clam vongole

By Tyler Torrance Head Chef at Seafood & Grill at the Brudenell www.brudenellhotel.co.uk This is a dish that I just love to cook for my family combining fabulous ingredients with ease of preparation. December is a perfect month for shellfish which can be sourced locally and using wonderful Suffolk pork makes it a perfect seasonal and, despite its Italian roots, local classic. Eat this dish with your family and friends; it’s such a great sharing experience.

INGREDIENTS Serves 4 1kg purged clams (See chefs tip) 280g linguine (70g of pasta per person) 200g diced pancetta (50g per person) 300g cockle meat 2 shallots – diced 3 cloves of garlic – minced 1 bunch parsley ½ bunch rosemary Cold pressed English rape seed Butter Salt & white pepper to taste

METHOD 1. Have a pot of hot salted water to hand with a colander ready for the pasta.

2. In a hot sauté pan, start by sautéing the pancetta with the shallots, garlic and rosemary in the rape seed oil then add the cockles and clams. The pasta cooks in about nine minutes; you want to time the pasta cooking with the clams opening. I deglaze with a little white wine and pasta water to help the clams along and add a bit of butter at the same time to help build a nice sauce.

3. Drain the pasta and add to the sautéed cockles and pancetta. Toss together and check the seasoning and adjust accordingly TO SERVE At the restaurant I serve the British clam vongole in a deep bowl with chopped parsley.

CHEF’S TIP Clams are very easy to work with and these briny little morsels only take a little effort to lift almost any dish. The only thing they require is a purge to take the sand out (they love to burrow in the sand). Simply running under cold water, changing water periodically for ten to fifteen minutes should be more than enough time. If preferred the clams can easily be replaced with mussels.

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DECEMBER 2015

Grilled mackerel fillets served with pan fried potatoes, chilli jam and fresh rocket

By Liam Jones Head Chef at the Coach & Horses, Melton | www.debeninns.co.uk

Sometimes we need a little light relief from all the hearty meat dishes on the table over the Christmas holidays. This mackerel and tiger prawn combination is quick and easy to prepare and still has a seasonal edge with the festive red chilli jam and vivid green rocket accompaniments.

INGREDIENTS Serves 2 4 mackerel fillets 8 to 10 tiger prawns 225g baby potatoes (pre-boiled) 80g fresh rocket 2 tbsp chilli jam (a variety of good quality locally made chilli jams are available in local stores or make your own from the recipe here) For the chilli jam: 5 red chillies 4 red peppers 500g sugar 300ml Aspall Cyder Vinegar

METHOD To make the chilli jam The chilli jam can be made in advance and there will be plenty to store and use for other recipes: 1. Deseed and blend (or finely dice) the chillies and peppers.

2. Place in a pan with the sugar and vinegar.

3. Bring to the boil and cook at a high heat for 10 minutes.

4. Reduce to a low heat and cook for an hour until thickened and glossy.

5. Cool and decant into sterilised jars.

For the mackerel dish 1. Heat a griddle pan on the hob with a little oil. When it starts to smoke drop in the mackerel fillets, skin side down, for 2 minutes until the skin crisps. Turn over and season.

2. Repeat on the second side, remove the pan from the heat to finish cooking.

3. Heat a little oil in a frying pan. When hot add the tiger prawns and cook for 30 seconds on each side until pink.

4. Add the pre-cooked baby potatoes and cook, turning until heated through. Spoon in the chilli jam and when hot drop in the rocket, turning it through the potatoes.

5. Transfer straight to two plates, place the mackerel on top and enjoy.

CHEF’S TIP As an optional extra add half a mango (sliced) when adding the chilli jam and rocket for an extra fruity twist.

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Christmas Recipes

Festive pudding

By David Wicks of 745pm | www.745pm.co.uk

Certainly in our house, after canapes, a starter and festive main course, very few people have room for anything substantial. Our Christmas pudding gets fired up with burning brandy, the lights go out, the grandchildren ooh and aah and the pudding gets eaten on Boxing Day. We just need a little something that will slip down easily...

INGREDIENTS Serves 6 50g sultanas 50g stoneless raisins 50g glace cherries 25g flaked almonds Cooking brandy 200g Bournville chocolate 300ml double cream The yolks of four large eggs 125g castor sugar 125ml Marsala

METHOD 1. Put the raisins and sultanas to soak overnight, just covered in brandy.

2. Break the chocolate up into a bowl set over gently boiling water. Before the final few lumps have melted, remove from the heat and stir vigorously until really smooth. With a brush, paint a good thick coat on the insides of half a dozen silicon muffin moulds and pop them into a fridge until the chocolate is solid again.

3. Whip the cream until stiff and keep cool in the fridge.

4. Put the egg yolks, sugar and Marsala in a bowl over boiling water and stir until the mixture thickens. If you have a thermometer you’re looking for about 68°C. Remove from the heat and gently stir in the cream until dispersed. Drain the raisins and sultanas and stir them and the cherries and almonds into the mixture. Pour into the muffin moulds and strike off level with the top. Place carefully into a freezer. (The ice box in a fridge will not be cold enough) 5. When ready to serve... simply push them out of their moulds and get them to the table asap. In the restaurant we serve these with a little orange flavoured custard... Simply make some real custard, (eggs, sugar and cream - forget the vanilla) transfer it to a liquidiser and blitz whilst dribbling in Cointreau liqueur until you are happy with taste.

It’s difficult to put in too much!

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Christmas Recipes

DECEMBER 2015

Chorizo churros & buckwheat blinis with salmon, crème fraîche and caviar

By Ollie Macmillan of the Hadleigh Ram www.thehadleighram.co.uk

Whether as starters or nibbles with drinks these two canape recipes are regular favourites in the Macmillan household. While blinis will I’m sure be known to most readers the Spanish inspired churros may not be so familiar.

Often found as a sweet recipe this savoury version is sure to be a hit.

INGREDIENTS Recipe makes 10 of each canapé For the chorizo churros: 6 tbsp unsalted butter 1 tsp salt 2 ¼ cups flour 1 egg oil for frying 200g quality cooking chorizo diced Maldon sea salt Cracked black pepper For the buckwheat blinis with salmon, crème fraîche and caviar: Blinis: 40g buckwheat flour 125g strong white flour 4tsp salt 10g fresh yeast 150ml crème fraîche 175ml milk 2 eggs 25g butter Topping: Smoked salmon crème fraîche caviar

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METHOD For the chorizo churros: 1. Bring butter, salt and 2 & 1/4 cups of water to the boil in a saucepan, over medium to high heat.

2. Add the flour, cook, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon until smooth dough forms, about 5 minutes 3. Transfer dough to a bowl and add the egg, stir vigorously until the dough is smooth 4. Pan fry the chorizo in a little oil until crispy, add to the dough and check the seasoning 5. Transfer dough into a piping bag fitted with a star tip and set-aside 6. Pour oil into a shallow frying pan, heat to 190C 7. Working in batches, hold piping bag above oil and pipe about 4 six-inch lengths of dough. Fry, turning often, until golden brown – about 2 minutes.

8. Transfer to paper towels For the buckwheat blinis with salmon, crème fraîche and caviar: 1. Begin by sifting the buckwheat flour, plain flour and salt together into a bowl. Place the crème fraîche, milk and yeast in a small saucepan and warm.

2. Add the egg yolks to the milk, mix them in with a whisk, after that pour the whole lot into the flour mixture, whisk everything until you have a thick batter, cover the bowl with a clean tea cloth and leave in a warm place for one hr.

3. After an hour the batter will be spongy and bubbly, whisk the egg whites until they form stiff peaks and gently fold them into the batter. Cover and leave for a further hour 4. Then your batter is ready to use, butter a frying pan and cook until golden brown both sides.

5. Top your blini with smoked salmon and crème fraîche, even caviar too

Produ ducedd bby Shawsgaattee Vineyard, Framlinghaam, Suuff ffo ff folk llk

A SOURCED LOCALLY

IS I S AROUND R D THE C CORNER ER Sparkling Rosé (Brut) £18.99

For award winning wines Pop to the co-op

DECEMBER 2015

Ufford Park

The Fox

Arlingtons

Open every day, The Park Restaurant provides a choice of three-course meals.

We offer a relaxed atmosphere and have a seasonally-changing menu. Our new Autumn Afternoon Tea is now available and is priced at £14.95 per person. You can enjoy Sunday Lunch in both the restaurant and bar and this is priced accordingly with Sunday 13th December being our ‘Jazz Sunday’ with local saxophonist playing from 12pm until 2pm.

All party sizes can be accommodated.

Open to all; non–members welcome.

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 seven days a week, all day at weekends and this is complimented by an ever changing range of guest ales and wines. Food offers are available throughout the week. See our website for details of our Christmas menus.

Buzzing brasserie style restaurant with café bar set within the building converted from Arlingtons Ballroom. The perfect venue to catch up with friends, celebrate special occasions or talk business; taking advantage of free WiFi, air-printing and charging sockets at gallery tables. French style menu served in typical informal Brasserie manner offering a large selection of freshly prepared Suffolk reared meat dishes and vegetarian choices, plus fish and shellfish from sustainable sources.

Takeaway deli, breakfast from 8am, light meals and homemade cakes throughout the day.

Open: Monday to Sunday 6.30pm to 9.30pm

Open: Monday to Saturday 11am to 11pm Sunday 12 noon to 10.30pm Food served 7 days a week

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

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

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

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

01473 230293 enquiries@arlingtonsbrasserie.co.uk www.arlingtonsbrasserie.co.uk

The Angel

The Fountain

Sibton White Horse

Using the best local ingredients from the excellent producers on our doorstep, we prepare great tasty food here on the premises and aim sell it to you at a reasonable price. Mon-Fri we offer a choice of tasty home cooked lunches for £5, in addition to our full menu. Sunday roasts and our homemade burgers are a speciality. We are equally proud of our drinks offering with 6 real ales (listed in the 2013 CAMRA Good Beer Guide), draught Suffolk Cyder & lagers, and East Anglia’s widest range of spirits with over 220 gins.

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. Book now for Christmas menu from November 30. All Christmas menus now available on our website.

A 16th century unspoilt destination inn set in the heart of the Suffolk countryside.

A memorable experience is waiting at The Good Pub Guide’s Suffolk Dining Pub of the Year 2016.’ Relax with a pint of local cask beer or a glass of wine beside the log burner and absorb the atmosphere and charm of such a wonderful building. Indulge in our delicious thoughtfully crafted menu.

Built upon local, seasonal ingredients we offer an easy and unpretentious service, grounded in the tradition of the English inn.

Open: Monday to Friday, 12 noon to 3pm and 5pm to close. Open all day at weekends

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

Theatre Street, Woodbridge, Suffolk, IP12 4NE (Just off the Market Hill) 01394 383808 mail@theangelwoodbridge.co.uk www.theangelwoodbridge.co.uk 60

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Open: Monday to Sunday, 8am to 10pm 13 Museum Street, Ipswich, Suffolk, IP1 1HE

The Street, Tuddenham St. Martin, IP6 9BT

Open: 12pm to 2.30pm Tuesday to Saturday, 6.30pm to 11pm. Monday to Saturday 12pm to 3pm, 6.45pm to 10.30pm Sunday Halesworth Road, Sibton, Nr. Saxmundham, Suffolk, IP17 2JJ

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

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

Food Gallery

Butt & Oyster

The Turks Head

The Froize

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. Food offers are available throughout the week. See our website for details of our Christmas menus.

The Turks Head has reopened. We serve local ales, fantastic wines & locally sourced beautifully executed food. The atmosphere is convivial, whether popping in for a pint & a bar snack or for a meal. Sunday lunch is very popular and we serve food from 12 – 6pm the bar is open from 11am to 11pm. The Festive Season is upon us and our Seasonal menu will be available from 1st December.

We are open for drinks on Christmas Day, and serving a great Boxing Day Lunch.

Come and join us to welcome in the New Year. We look forward to welcoming you.

David Grimwood’s lovely Freehouse Restaurant The Froize, is all about the food and the people who eat it! Top quality, seasonal fresh food, sourced locally, cooked with love and passion and served with a smile! Christmas is approaching and at this special time of year the Froize welcomes you to celebrate with them and taste the magical yuletide food from their party menu! Decked with an enormous Christmas tree, flickering fires, mistletoe and holly, you can enjoy the festive frivolities and the warm hospitality for just £25 pp!

Open: Monday to Saturday, 11am to 11pm.

Sunday, 12pm to 10.30pm Food served 7 days a week

Open: Sunday to Thursday 10am to 11pm, Friday to Saturday 10am to 12 midnight

Open: Lunch every day except Monday and for supper on Friday and Saturday.

Booking advised

Pin Mill, Ipswich, Suffolk, IP9 1JW

Low Road, Hasketon, Woodbridge, Suffolk IP13 6JG

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

01394 610343 info@theturksheadhasketon.co.uk www.theturksheadhasketon.co.uk

01394 450282 dine@thefrozie.co.uk www.froize.co.uk

The Peacock Inn

The Middleton Bell

Fynn Valley

Situated opposite the picturesque bridge in the village of Chelsworth, The Peacock is a traditional half-timbered 14th century Inn, with cosy log fires and three rosette silver accommodation. Perfectly positioned for touring, walking and cycling in the beautiful surrounding countryside. Offering a selection of real ales and seasonal homemade food.

Try our Sunday roast in a relaxed atmosphere, bookings advisable, dogs welcome.

Set in the beautiful village of Middleton the award winning Value Pub of the Year 2012 Bell Inn offers top quality food using the best local produce at prices that ensure you will want to return again and again. Dine in the garden, traditional bar area or the beamed restaurant and enjoy home cooked food and ales directly from the cask. The Bell is the perfect venue to meet friends and family.

Open: Monday to Saturday, 12pm to 3pm and 6pm to 11pm. Sunday, 12pm to 6pm (Food served 12pm to 2.30pm and 6pm to 9pm daily)

Open: Bar: Monday 6pm to 11pm, Tuesday to Friday – Lunch, 12 noon to 3pm, Evening, 6pm to 11pm, Saturday: 12 noon – midnight. Sunday: 12 noon to 10.30pm Food served Tuesday – Sunday Booking advisable please call for details

Open to everyone, not just golfers, this is the place you 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 and children eat free!

The spacious Valley Room is perfect for large family celebrations. Full details of our menus and offers can be found on our website.

37 The Street, Chelsworth, Suffolk, IP7 7HU 01449 743952 wilcri@aol.com www.thepeacockchelsworth.com

The Street, Middleton, Suffolk, IP17 3NN 01728 648286

Chillesford, Woodbridge, Suffolk, IP12 3PU

Open: Open every lunchtime and Tuesday – Saturday evenings.

Fynn Valley Golf Club, Witnesham, Ipswich, Suffolk, IP6 9JA 01473 785202 restaurant@fynn-valley.co.uk www.fynn-valley.co.uk

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Wine

DECEMBER 2015

CATERING FOR CHRISTMAS Christmas will be upon us in the merest blink of an eye, and I must once again brace myself in anticipation of a bulging in-box on the subject of that perennial conundrum: what to drink with seasonal fare.

The answer, as ever, is as simple as game pie and I am more than happy to reiterate my thoughts on the matter; conclusions honed by many years of deliberation and self-doubt, anxiety and a certain amount of cork-pulling. For openers, I would follow two basic rules. At any time of the year, there will be those who will only drink red wine and those who, regardless of the menu – will only want to drink white. To make sure everyone is catered for with the minimum of fuss, my advice would be to put a bottle of both red and white, plus a bottle of rosé, on the table, all together. This might appear extravagant but to me it seems a sensible and rather cool approach – the Infinite Monkey Theorem; guests can help themselves to whichever colour takes their fancy, whenever and with whichever course is in front of them, and if the host’s generosity knows no bounds and there is wine left over for the washer-up, then so be it.

My second rule would be to stick to what you most enjoy drinking and not to venture off-piste purely because someone bonkers has suggested that sparkling Muscadet happens to be the bee’s knees with steak tartare. It may well be, but don’t be tempted. Instead, consider your tried and tested favourites, and to celebrate this time of indulgence, raise the quality level a couple of notches, and spend a bit more. Drink a Sancerre instead of an entry-level Sauvignon; Chablis instead of a lack-lustre Chardonnay, a Châteauneuf if you normally drink Côtes-du-Rhône or – if you like a glass of Cabernet/Merlot, then trade up to a decent Château-bottled claret. This may be the opportune moment to point out that Adnams has shipped some cracking clarets this 62

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Rob Chase

autumn – all representing outstanding value for money, thanks to both the strength of sterling and the fact that with no recent, hyped-up vintages and China currently edging out of the market, the bloated Bordeaux price balloon has been somewhat deflated.

A couple of examples of perfect Christmas clarets are the entry-level 2009 Château Plaisance, Bordeaux Superieur (£12.99) or the 2010 Château Cissac, Haut-Médoc (£17.99), both of which come from outstanding vintages. A tad more ‘vintage’ is the unrepeatable 1999 Château Malescasse at £18.99 a bottle which is mature and perfect for current drinking. Stocks will dwindle rapidly, so if this takes your fancy, I would urge you to hasten along to one of our stores immediately, or give Adnams a call.

For me, though, Christmas is the perfect time to broach a magnum or two, and any one of our most recent large-bottle acquisitions would make the perfect stocking filler – allowing just enough room for a nut, silver coin and a lump of coal in the toe, with candy-stick and a cracker at the top. Magnums are, for the unversed in such matters, the equivalent of two bottles-worth of wine crammed into one. They often cost a little more than twice the equivalent bottle size – partly due to the cost of bottle manufacture, partly due to the premium that an estate might like to attach to them. The downside to these large bottles is making room in an already-crowded fridge to chill the whites, or resisting the temptation to use them as door-stops.

Ninety minutes in the freezer sorts out the first problem nicely, and refilling any magnum after consumption with sand, will stop that door from banging. I recommend the following two, in my attempt to make your purses and wallets twitch. From the ancient house of Hugel & Fils in Alsace, we have shipped their 2013 Gentil, a sumptuous dry white at £32.99. This is a heady combination of Gewürztraminer, Sylvaner and Pinot

Blanc, with a splash of Muscat (2%) providing additional aromatic nuances.

The very look of the bottle itself comes a close second to the deliciousness of its contents: perfect with a (large) fish-pie, a multitude of smoked salmon canapés, and later, when emptied, as a skittle. My choice of a red magnum (and we have a few to choose from) would probably be the Monte Real Rioja Reserva at £24.99.

This seems remarkable value given that the leviathan bottle alone could probably stop a stampeding Labrador in its tracks.

The wine itself is a complex and oldfashioned blend of oak and dried fruit flavours, and is guaranteed to elicit a warm glow around every dining table.

As with any magnum, it might be wise to decant into a couple of smaller vessels. This will bring two advantages: by dint of emptying your magnum into a couple of jugs or decanters, the aeration allows the wine to breathe and enhance its drinkability. It will certainly add subtle tones to the Rioja, whilst releasing the multitude of aromas lurking in the Alsace white. Second, there may be those amongst your guests with weak wrists: the mayhem caused should the magnum slip, thereby scattering sprouts, stuffing and cranberry sauce the length of your groaning table would be desperate.

With the opening of our latest Cellar & Kitchen Store in Bury St Edmunds, we have now got Suffolk surrounded or – if not quite encircled – we have at least brought one of our shops a little closer to a few more of our customers. Our wines, beers and spirits are also but a click away (adnams.co.uk), and we will happily despatch bottles far and wide on mainland UK, on your behalf. We have many of the ingredients to add merriment to your Christmas celebrations, and we much look forward to helping you choose them.

With seasonal salutations from Southwold.

Antiques & Auctions

ENCOUNTERS ON THE ALGARVE It is usual at this time of the year for me to write about my travels and antiques I have encountered along the way. A return trip to the Algarve resulted in two wonderful weeks of sun but not an antique shop in sight from any of our (limited) excursions.

On one trip I was drawn to a local who serenaded allcomers from his chair on the cobbles set above the beach.

Accompanying his somewhat strangulated singing were complex sounds coming from his squeeze box, which incidentally, bore the name Parrot (one of those performing might have been preferable!). You will be pleased to

know that this unique combination of musical delights still resulted in a euro or two landing in the bowl at his feet and of course a photo opportunity!

The plaque on the tall wall beside our soloist is set beside an inauspicious and rather narrow entrance which in turn opens on to a flight of steps. The plaque proclaims ‘A building of public interest from 3rd – 5th Centuries’. The text goes on to say that what we shall see at the top of those steps is the remnants of a Roman dwelling which was partially excavated in the 19th century by one Estácio de Veiga.

The remnants of the find are, as you will see from the illustration, not particularly inspiring and indeed are completely at the mercy of the elements. Locals will tell you this area was not to be denied an afterlife (or two) from its humble beginnings as it

James Neal

is also recorded as containing groups of tanks or cetareas which were used for preparing fish. Other uses included being part of an ‘aqueduct’ and as a bathhouse.

Prior to the villas being constructed around the ruins the area had been tended as a vegetable garden.

As you will see, this is a somewhat different variety of antique from the ones usually referred to in this column; hopefully it will be of interest none the less!

Whatever your flooring need Suffolk Carpet Weavers can help you

With over 60 years of professionalism and expertise in carpet making and fitting we can transform your home using quality carpets and flooring. We have hundreds of colours, weights and patterns to choose from including a bespoke service.

Looking for something original?

We can create whatever you want, wherever you want and in whatever quality you require. We have a library of pictures of bespoke carpets we have created for our customers and will be happy to show you.

Hard flooring?

Not a problem. We offer beautiful vinyl flooring, stunning designs in wood and stone finishes and a full preparation service available.

Workshop services and rug cleaning If you need a carpet binding, want to turn your waste into a beautiful rug or bring a loved rug back to a ‘just new’ finish we can help.

Free carpet cleaning on new carpets* Just like your garments carpets need cleaning to keep the colours and pile vibrant. To help you achieve the very best from your new purchase until the end of December you will receive, totally free of charge, our service clean 12 months after installation of your beautiful new carpet. * On wool carpets over £25psqm. Minimum purchase £500.

East Anglia’s only complete flooring company bringing you the best value & service guaranteed.

Suffolk Carpet Weavers Unit 5 Bridge Business Park,Top Street Martlesham IP12 4RB

Open Monday to Friday 9am – 5pm Saturdays 9am – 1pm (excluding bank holidays)

01394 610202 www.suffolkcarpetweavers.com

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Betty glass baubles (set of 6) ÂŁ28 Neptune

Homes & Interiors Essential SUFFOLK

be proud to shop

LOCAL THIS CHRISTMAS

Heaven Sends robin and pine cone tree decoration £4.50 Barretts of Woodbridge

Walton & Co cross stitch tree decoration £6 Barretts of Woodbridge

Velvet santa £8 Barretts of Woodbridge

trimming

THE TREE

Trimming the tree and decorating the home for Christmas is one of the great festive holiday pleasures. Whether you stick strictly to a theme or add eclectically to your collection each year these charming ornaments and decorations will we’re sure give you inspiration Jingle Bell lights £12.50 House & Garden

Sass & Belle carved tree decoration £3.50 Barretts of Woodbridge

Hesian Christmas Stocking £10.50 Barretts of Woodbridge

Scotty dog tree decoration £6 Barretts of Woodbridge

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DECEMBER 2015

Cavenish star hurricane lanterns, large £24, medium £17, small (set of 6) £43 Neptune

Essential SUFFOLK

be proud to shop

LOCAL THIS

Walton & Co Soft toy reindeer £13.99 Barretts of Woodbridge

CHRISTMAS

Mini Santa sack £3.50 Barretts of Woodbridge

Musical Nutcracker £35.99 Barretts of Woodbridge

• Large kitchen and bathroom showroom

WOODBRIDGE INTERIORS

• Villeroy & Boch, Matki Aqata & Hans Grohe

KITCHEN & BATHROOM SPECIALISTS

• German kitchen furniture, Corian & Neff • Full installation service • Free design

01394 386390 www.woodbridgeinteriors.co.uk

Kitchen and Bathroom showroom Smithfield, Melton Road Melton, nr. Woodbridge IP12 1NG

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Homes & Interiors

Gisela Graham Santa sleigh tealight holder £11.99 Barretts of Woodbridge

Walton & Co angel tree deocation £6.99 Barretts of Woodbridge

Large snow globe £58 Barretts of Woodbridge Gisela Graham musical box £24 Barretts of Woodbridge

Aspen cut hanging decorations (set of 6) £10 Neptune

Belvedere small jar tealight holder £13 Neptune

Anabel glass baubles (set of 6) from £21 Neptune

STOCKISTS Barretts of Woodbridge 40 – 42 Thoroughfare, Woodbridge. T: 01394 384300 www.barretts.co.uk House & Garden Snape Maltings, Snape, Nr Aldeburgh. T: 01728 688303 www.snapemaltings.co.uk Neptune Design Centre Ltd 45 St Andrew’s Street South, Bury St Edmunds. T: 01284 731025 www.neptuneburystedmunds.com and London Road, Colchester. T: 01206 212650 www.neptunecolchester.com

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Business Profile | Barretts of Woodbridge

Christmas

AT BARRETTS Specialising in beautiful and high quality home furnishings and linens, Barretts of Woodbridge has been a landmark store in the heart of the thriving market town for over 45 years. Offering everything you would expect from a family run, proudly independent high street shop, Barretts is famous for its superb service, friendly staff, and vibrant atmosphere.

It is also renowned for its fresh and engaging displays, none more so than at Christmas. People come from far and wide to see the Barretts Christmas windows, each with a delightful theme.

festive decorations everywhere you look, making it the talk of the town!

As always, there is an array of festive themes to choose from and here is a little taster of what is on offer for this year’s celebrations.

The alpine ‘Ski Chalet’ theme makes up the main Barretts display window for 2015. Lots of ski decorations; wooden alpine churches and villages, faux fur rugs, cow bell decorations, skate decorations, and cuddly reindeer.

The ‘Christmas Woodland’ theme with bristly hedgehogs, deer, foxes, cats, owls, squirrels, rabbits, pheasants and wolves has been very popular. There are also toadstools, cone garlands, and berry trees and the snowy trees make for a dramatic winter display.

The team at Barretts, led by Jill Barrett, love Christmas and every year the shop is transformed into a magical winter wonderland, with Christmas trees and

No one could forget the timeless classic ‘White Christmas’ which has been the enduring theme for Christmas. This year Barretts has a beautiful silver and white themed display in the side window of the shop, with white cones, silver kasbah decorations, frosted mistletoe, white stags, white feathered birds and angels and glass icicle decorations making it a beautiful and enchanting display.

New for 2015 is ‘Vintage Christmas’ and the display has lots of lovely metal heart decorations with Victorian Christmas scenes, gold and red berry decorations, golden feathered pheasants and gorgeous green and gold glass baubles.

The main theme from last year, Nutcracker, makes a welcome return on the main showroom stage with lots of musical Nutcracker soldiers, Nutcracker tree decorations and stockings and even Nutcracker Christmas musical snow globes.

Jill has been delighted with the amazing response to the festive displays with so many customers commenting on how stunning the shop looks. If visiting the shop is not possible Barretts also has its online store, which launched last year and this has been a great success.

Now you can shop online knowing you are still supporting a local, high street business. Visit www.barretts.co.uk

Up and coming events Barretts Rug Evening Tuesday 1 December, 6pm – 9pm.

Woodbridge Christmas Street Fair, including Santa’s Grotto Sunday 6 December, 10am – 4pm

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DECEMBER 2015

INSPIRATIONAL CENTRE FOR INTERIOR DESIGN Home furnishing retailer, Neptune opened the doors to its largest store to date in Bury St. Edmunds last month, making it the thirteenth store in the UK

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Business Profile | Neptune

N

eptune Head of Retail, Gary Temprell, formerly of Habitat and the White Company comments; “Right now is a really exciting time for Neptune. The original Bury St Edmunds store has been such a success that it has now outgrown the current premises and we’re pleased to announce that the new building on the high street will be the biggest Neptune store to date. The construction of a flagship Neptune store is a testament to the growth of Neptune’s loyal customer base and has also provided a number of new jobs for the local residents of Bury”.

Bury St. Edmunds has been designed to be inspirational centre of interior design, boasting a 8150 sq foot showroom with an added 2,000 sq foot orangery to showcase Neptune’s stylish outdoor furniture and casual dining.

Neptune’s overall design concept is elegant, relaxed, authentic and inspired, influenced by classical proportions, English heritage and traditional artisanal techniques. Neptune furniture is designed to feel bespoke and original, hand crafted and functional and is made using the best in raw materials, beautiful oak, superb granite and pure English lambswool. The palette is carefully considered and sophisticated with paint colours, finishes, sizes, handles and hinges providing all the elements for individual and unique designs.

Originally Suffolk was a Neptune chair based on an old English antique design actually first produced in a few workshops in the middle of Suffolk between 1790 and 1840. The Suffolk chair’s popularity led to the creation of comprehensive kitchen and furniture range. Based on the classic Shaker look of pared back simplicity, Suffolk has perfect proportions with no unnecessary adornment, highlighting its natural elegance. Hand finished in a beautiful dove grey with a soft toned ash for the shelving and drawer boxes, Suffolk offers practical, understated and individual style.

The ethos behind Henley is an oak kitchen that again works equally well in both a country setting and an urban apartment. The result is a celebration of English oak featuring clean lines, warm textures with a classical restrained luxury and contemporary detailing. Its versatility is such that by simply fitting authentic brass handle you can create a traditional look, or by adding a sleek work top, a cut out handle feature, some vintage accessories and the cool look of stainless steel you have an ultra modern kitchen with a highly original finish.

bathrooms that extend the Chichester, Suffolk, Henley and Limehouse design and quality aesthetic across the whole home. Customers can also find sumptuous upholstery, an extensive collection of dining tables and chairs, bed and table linens, throws, cushions, tableware, stylish lighting, pictures, mirrors, distinctive decorative accessories together with a luxurious outdoor living range.

Martin King, store owner said; “I really wanted to achieve an amazing customer experience for the new store, I am a firm believer that when I (or a customer) spend money in a store that we should enjoy the experience and the purchase and leave feeling that I have had great value not only in the product purchased but in the whole shopping experience.

Experimental, creative and functional, Limehouse underlines Neptune’s knowledge and understanding of great design and also celebrates new technology and modern aesthetics.

The showroom features Neptune’s four kitchen collections: Chichester, Suffolk, Henley and the highly acclaimed and latest introduction, Limehouse, together with the company’s comprehensive range of furniture, furnishings and accessories that provide inspirational solutions for the whole home.

Limehouse is inspired by the simplicity and functionality of our industrial past, celebrating its precision and linear design, resulting in a thoroughly modern take on a traditional working kitchen. The look and feel of Limehouse is smooth with a natural flow, a slick dynamic which still retains Neptune’s signature style.

Chichester is a quintessentially English range of painted wood furniture. An innovative combination of traditional detailing, elegant craftsmanship and sophisticated proportions, its versatility lies in the fact that it can sit comfortably in the most contemporary space or look stylish in a rustic farmhouse. The soft hand painted finish and distinctive profile looks fabulous in any of Neptune’s paint colours, complemented by the wide range of handles and hinges resulting in a truly versatile, flexible and affordable kitchen.

Equally at home in a new or period setting, its pared back style features a hand-painted finish in Neptune’s Lily colourway. This cool neutral shade is the perfect contrast for the touches of industrial aluminium and chalked oak work surfaces that blend modern and organic materials creating a truly contemporary look.

Neptune also offers free standing furniture for kitchens, living rooms, bedrooms and fitted furniture for

Customers will be really ‘blown away’ when they visit the store with the superb quality and attention to detail that is integral to all Neptune kitchens, furniture and accessories. Innovation and traditional master crafting are combined to create beautiful components that our designers will use to make the most beautiful kitchens, living rooms, bedrooms and bathrooms and we have very friendly knowledgeable staff always ready with a smile!.”

INFORMATION Caxton House 43 – 45 St. Andrews Street South Bury St. Edmunds Suffolk IP33 3PH 01284 731025 www.neptune.com Open: Monday to Saturday 9am – 5:30pm, Sunday 10am – 4pm

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Christmas at ome, aturaly A welcoming table, exquisitely set; delicious food; happy chatter; dancing candlelight Arundel table from £1,350 and bench from £550, Tolsey plaid rug £370, Bowsley tableware from £22, Greenwich wine glasses £40, Holborn tealight holders £32, Anabel glass baubles from £21

Create your own designs at neptune.com Neptune Colchester, CO3 8LT, 01206 212 650, info@neptunecolchester.com Neptune Bury St Edmunds, IP33 3PH, 01284 731025, info@neptuneburystedmunds.com

Property

Essential

PROPERTY 74 75 77 79 81 82

Neals Hamilton Smith Jackson-Stops & Staff Clarke & Simpson Fenn Wright Savills 76 Bromeswell

78 Tuddenham

80 Parham EssentialSUFFOLK

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01394 382263 enquiries@nsf.co.uk www.nsf.co.uk 26 CHURCH STREET WOODBRIDGE SUFFOLK IP12 1DP

WOODBRIDGE - A DETACHED AND SYMPATHETICALLY EXTENDED PERIOD COTTAGE

This appealing property has ample evidence of the early timber framing with exposed wall and ceiling beams in the older part of the cottage. Unusually for a home in this part of Seckford Street it is detached and has a surprisingly good sized garden.

Hall, Sitting Room, Dining Room, Kitchen-Breakfast Room, 2 Bedrooms with low ceilings and a Bathroom. EPC Band F Offers around £325,000

WOODBRIDGE - CLOSE TO THE THOROUGHFARE

WOODBRIDGE - FRONTING THE THOROUGHFARE

A three storey Town House, which has just been redecorated internally and had new carpets laid. Hall, Cloakroom, Kitchen-Dining Room, Utility Room, 4 Bedrooms, 1 En Suite and a Family Bathroom.

EPC Band C Offers around £397,500

A three bedroom period Town House of great character with a Garage, Garden Room and enclosed rear garden. Independently accessed Commercial Area previously used as a Gallery with storeroom and WC. EPC Bands E & D Offers around £475,000

THE OLD COURT HOUSE, MARKET SQUARE, WOODBRIDGE.

GUIDE PRICE £1,200,000

The Court House is an elegant and historic Grade II* listed building which has been tastefully and carefully restored into a luxury four bedroom town house.

The property occupies a prominent position on The Market Square with views over St Marys Church and distant views of the river Deben from the master bedroom. The Old Court House will be available for viewing from the first week of December and will be carpeted and furnished by Barretts of Woodbridge.

Look out for our full page feature advert on The Old Court House, its history and Open House event in the East Anglian Daily Times.

CUTTING HOUSE

GUIDE PRICE £695,000

Cutting House was part of The Old Court House development and has also been transformed in to an interesting and unique three bedroom town house.

Cutting House is a fine example of period character mixed with modern open plan living, modern stylish fitted kitchen with all built-in appliances, master bedroom with luxury en-suite shower room, courtyard and garden.

WOODBRIDGE

GUIDE PRICE £950,000

A unique Grade II Listed 3 bedroom town house which offers good sized accomodation, conservatory and off-road parking.

WOODBRIDGE

GUIDE PRICE £375,000

A charming period town house with accommodation over 4 floors. Good sized garden backing on to woodland. EPC: E

Hamilton Smith Woodbridge | woodbridge@hamilton-smith.com | 01394 386688

SALE AGREED MORE LARGE DETACHED HOUSES REQUIRED IN WOODBRIDGE

www.rightmove.co.uk

DECEMBER 2015

IN THE HEART OF THE DEBEN VALE CHURCH FARM HOUSE FACTS LOCATION: BROMESWELL GUIDE PRICE: £595,000 AGENT: FENN WRIGHT

In many ways Church Farm House is a picture perfect Suffolk country residence. It’s got a history dating back to the 17th century, has a wealth of glorious exposed beams and inglenook fireplaces and a beautiful garden.

What makes it really special is its location; on the beautiful Common Lane in Bromeswell offering rural tranquility yet being very conveniently close to Woodbridge too. Plus, an added bonus is that Common Lane has recently been selected as the first of Suffolk’s designated Quiet Lanes.

Church Farm House has been very well maintained by the present owners and

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offers spacious accommodation including three large reception rooms along the front of the property. The dining room and drawing room have back-to-back Inglenooks both with log burning stoves and to the rear of the sitting room there is an impressive kitchen/breakfast room fitted with bespoke hand painted units

by Deben Vale Kitchens and an Esse range stove. On the first floor there are four bedrooms with built in wardrobes and a family bathroom.

Outside, Church Farm House has two driveways providing parking for several vehicles. The driveway to the right hand side has a timber clad garage with leanto workshop and storage above. There

are some delightful gardens to the southeast of the property with well-kept lawns boarded by a variety of wellstocked and colourful herbaceous beds and shrub borders.

To the rear of the house there is a sheltered terrace whilst the front garden is attractively enclosed by a wrought iron fence.

INFORMATION Fenn Wright 01473 358400 To see more pictures of this property visit www.essentialsuffolk.com/property

jackson-stops.co.uk SO LD SO LD

Woodbridge Guide Price £1,500,000

Felixstowe Guide Price £2,500,000

Easton Guide Price £1,200,000 SO LD

Hacheston Guide Price £1,250,000 SO LD

SO LD

SO LD

Grundisburgh Guide Price £1,950,000

SO LD

Chattisham Guide Price £1,450,000 SO LD

Successfully selling in 2015

Badingham Guide Price £795,000

Kettleburgh Guide Price £465,000

Thinking of selling in 2016?

Contact Tim Dansie, Jonathan Penn or James Squirrell 01473 218218 ipswich@jackson-stops.co.uk Local & National reach through a network of London & Regional offices

People Property Places

DECEMBER 2015

THE OLD VICARAGE FACTS LOCATION: TUDDENHAM GUIDE PRICE: £1,000,000 AGENT: SAVILLS

ENDURING APPEAL Old rectories, vicarages and parsonages occupy a special place in the world of property, according to Tom Orford of Savills Ipswich.

Historically they played an important role in village life and now for many buyers they represent a dream home, radiating a sense of comfort and welcome. Usually set in their own grounds they enjoy privacy while remaining close to the community, offering the best of both worlds, and so it is with The Old Vicarage in Tuddenham, near Ipswich.

space and a host of period features such as open fireplaces, oak floors, panelled doors and sash windows. The first floor is reached by two staircases and the master bedroom has an en-suite bathroom as well as a dressing room/bedroom six.

There are also extensive cellars which include a games room, workshop and stores. The neighbouring coach house has been the subject of a sympathetic conversion to provide self contained, two bedroom guest accommodation featuring a sitting room with a vaulted ceiling and exposed brick floor.

Tom concludes: “With lots of space both inside and out, not to mention the guest annexe, The Old Vicarage makes a wonderful family home. The surrounding countryside of the Fynn Valley is some of the most picturesque in east Suffolk, and Ipswich, with regular trains to London, is only about three miles away.”

Tucked away next to the lovely parish church yet close to the heart of the village, this six bedroom house is believed to date from the 17th century with Victorian and later additions. Set in about an acre, it provides great family living

The Old Vicarage is approached via a curving drive which sweeps through stunning established gardens. To the south west are lawns surrounded by trees and shrubs and at the rear of the house there are further gardens including

INFORMATION Savills 01473 234800 To see more pictures of this property visit www.essentialsuffolk.com/property

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a paved sunken area, a terrace and wide herbaceous beds with box hedging.

The property also has a swimming pool and a summer house which contains the pool’s heating and filtration unit.

Campsea Ashe, Nr Wickham Market £1,100,000 A substantial 4,600 square feet Edwardian house in just under seven acres, standing prominently in a rural yet convenient location within the Parish of Campsea Ashe comprising hallway, drawing room, study, sitting room, dining room, kitchen/breakfast room, utility room and downstairs shower room. Five first floor double bedrooms and three bathrooms. Two second floor double bedrooms and cloakroom. Formal garden, paddocks and copse extending to just under seven acres. Garaging and swimming pool. EPC = E Ref: 5415

Parham, Nr Framlingham £625,000

Monk Soham, Nr Debenham £575,000

A substantial and beautifully presented former farm house standing prominently within the village of Parham in grounds of 1.5 acres. Comprising reception room, 23’ 10 x 19’ 7 open plan kitchen/breakfast room, vaulted sitting room, dining room, drawing room and study. Cloakroom and utility room. Five first floor bedrooms and two bathrooms. Attic room. Substantial garaging, stores and studio.

Ample off-road parking. EPC = E Ref: 5411

A four bedroom Suffolk barn located along a no-through road in an idyllic location adjacent to open fields. Comprising open plan sitting/dining room, kitchen and utility room. Two ground floor bedrooms and bathroom. Two first floor bedrooms and a shower room. Garden room and studio, which is ideal as a home office. Cart lodge. Gardens and grounds in excess of half an acre.

EPC = D Ref: 5402

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

T: 01728 724200

www.clarkeandsimpson.co.uk

DECEMBER 2015

COUNTRY LIVING BRIDGE FARM HOUSE FACTS LOCATION: PARHAM GUIDE PRICE: £625,000 AGENT: CLARKE & SIMPSON

Bridge Farm House is a five-bedroomed period property set in 1.5 acres in the pretty village of Parham. It’s a handsome, predominantly timber framed dwelling dating back several hundred years with many attractive period features. It has the great advantage of not being listed which has meant that in recent decades, sympathetic extensions and changes have been made creating a highly comfortable and spacious home.

On the ground floor is a large reception room, which leads to a drawing room, dining room and study. There’s a goodsized kitchen/breakfast/living room, which has hand-built units with a four

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oven Aga. Beyond is a 25’2 x 16’6 sitting room with vaulted ceiling, which has wall-to-wall windows. Also on the ground floor is a utility and cloakroom.

On the first floor are five bedrooms, all of which can be used as doubles. Bedroom one has a cloakroom and there are two further bathrooms – both with classic roll top baths. A staircase leads to a second floor attic room, which could be used as a sixth bedroom. Outside is a pretty and mature garden leading to a meadow where there is a studio and tractor shed.

There is ample parking, two garages and numerous store buildings. Immediately to

the north of the house is an area of decking and brick patio with a pathway leading to the meadow. The meadow is fully enclosed by fencing and hedging, as well as mature trees. It contains a number of maturing shrubs, vegetable beds and fruit cages. In addition there is a studio, which is insulated and overlooks the meadow.

INFORMATION Clarke & Simpson 01728 724200 To see more pictures of this property visit www.essentialsuffolk.com/property

Suffolk, based in Ipswich

01473 358 400 Specialists in the sale of town, village and country houses.

Experts in equestrian property.

Chelmondiston

Mickfield

This Grade II listed, traditional Suffolk farmhouse has many period details, a wealth of character, later additions and set in grounds of 2.2 acres.

An attractive Victorian farmhouse situated in a rural location close to Pin Mill, in mature gardens with separate paddock extending to approximately 2.5 acres.

• • • •

5/6 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms 4 reception rooms, 2 attic rooms Kitchen/breakfast room Additional kitchen/annexe potential • Detached single storey brick built outbuilding • 30' garage/workshop

Guide Price £625,000

• 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms • 3 reception rooms, kitchen/ breakfast room • Double garage & outbuildings • Rural location, yet not isolated • Established gardens • Traditional Victorian features • Grounds totalling 2.5 acres • EPC Rating E

Bromeswell

Guide Price £650,000 South West Ipswich

A substantial family home situated in Oakland Park which is a superior gated development set in approximately 5 acres of private woodland. The accommodation extends to over 3,000 sq. ft. plus an annexe of 1,000 sq. ft.

• • • • • •

6 bedrooms, 4 receptions Family bathroom & 2 ensuites Kitchen/breakfast room & utility Approximately 5 acres Double garage & parking EPC Rating C

Offers in excess of £645,000

suffolk@fennwright.co.uk Associated London office: Park Lane, Mayfair: 020 7409 8438

A substantial period country cottage situated in a picturesque setting on the outskirts of Woodbridge which offers versatile accommodation with the benefit of a one bedroom studio apartment with 29'5" games room below and a further self-contained annexe ideal for a home office.

• • • • • • •

4 bedrooms 2 bathrooms 3 reception rooms Views over meadowland Just under third of an acre In and out driveway EPC Rating E

Guide Price £650,000

fennwright.co.uk

Essential Faces

Bumblebee Children’s Charity Fashion Show Supporters of the Bumblebee Children’s Charity, an independent pre-school for children who have difficulties with movement and co-ordination (based at Sproughton near Ipswich), gathered at the Ipswich & Suffolk Club for a fashion show by Rachel of Hadleigh and Holly Blue Boutique. More than £1,000 was raised to help the school continue to provide vital services for children and parents.

To find out more visit www.bumblebeechildren.org.uk.

Carol Booth, Alison Stonham, Rosemary Holley

Judy Cattermole, Anne Reeder

Joan Brightwell, Pauline Young

Maggie Barr,Teresa McLellan, Key Cox

Nola Jepson, Marian Beales

Karen Cottee, Hilary Cook

Barbara Finbow, Lindsey Bickers, Liz Baker

Eunice Gray, Maggi Digby

Afternoon Tea, only £14.95 per person.

Served daily between 2pm and 5pm.

Danielle Dunn, Rosemary Bailey

0844 499 1630

(local rate)

www.uffordpark.co.uk

To view more, or purchase, photographs from this event visit essentialsuffolk.com

Art For Action Art for Action at Copdock Hall raised more than £10,000 to fund vital research that will save and change children's lives via the charity Action Medical Research. 190 pieces of unique art were donated and sold on the evening from artists and celebrities including Maggie Hambling, Anneka Rice, Tony Hadley and Dame Ellen MacArthur to name but a few. The event was also generously sponsored by Bedfords, Ensors and other leading Suffolk companies. See www.essentialsuffolk.com/ art-for-action for more details.

Karen Last, Krystyna Smithers, Diana Johnson, Jeanette Brierley, Lucy Hines

Thila & Colin King, Lucy Hines,Val Remington-Hobbs

Louise & Luke Cain

Mark, Karen & Francesca Shelley, Gemma Hall, Leigh & Jane Clayden,Tom Hall

Jemima Withey, Pauline Bloomfield, Caroline Blackmore

0844 499 1630

Susannah Burke, Assis Carreiro, Chris Burke

(local rate)

www.uffordpark.co.uk

John Dawson, Jodie Cobb

Tracy Healey, Ruth & Tim Larke

Last few tables for Boxing Day Lunch £28.95pp (5 -12years £15) Served between 12pm and 2pm, Children under 5 years old FREE

Essential Faces

East Anglian Air Ambulance Christmas Gift Fair The EAAA Gift Fair was a wonderful opportunity to buy early Christmas presents with a wide variety of stalls from all over the country. The event, hosted at The Hangar, Kesgrave Hall raised much needed funds for the EAAA – the volunteer run 365 days a year lifesaving air ambulance service for Suffolk, Norfolk, Bedfordshire and Cambridgeshire.

Jane Cazalet, Cindy de la Rue, Clare Reid

Melissa Embleton, Catherine Haddon

Karen Greig, Julia Scowsill

Penny Garry, Susan Edwards

Katherine Pickthorn, Julia Hunter Jones, Philly Collett

Sarah Bishopp, Mags Hayward, Alex Hayward

7:00pm - 9:30pm Steve Andrews, Angie Ashby Hoare

Heidi Norman, Serena Murray

Sally Ball, Mandy Leeson

Festive Lunch available from 12 noon on Thursday 10th & 17th December / Friday 11th & 18th December 2 courses £14.95 / 3 courses £16.95

0844 499 1630

(local rate)

www.uffordpark.co.uk

To view more, or purchase, photographs from this event visit essentialsuffolk.com

East Anglian Children’s Hospices Lunch Presenter of Radio 4’s The World at One, Martha Kearney, was guest speaker at a special lunch organised by the Woodbridge Friends of EACH. Around 200 people attended the event at The Hangar, Kesgrave Hall in aid of the charity which provides vital care and support for children and families across Suffolk.

Sarah Dodd, Etholle George, Martha Kearney, Graham Butland, Jane Booton

Christine Guy-Clarke, Jean Hoye, Anne Turner, Kathryn Cooper

Angela Fleming Brown, Heather Haines

(local rate)

www.uffordpark.co.uk

Ali Buchanan, Sue Streat, Sally Lamb

Helen Murray, Rosemary Ewing Gay, Patrick Nicholls, Eva Loeffler

Sandra Belton, Patsy Johnson Cisse, Gemma Smith

0844 499 1630

Catherine Hamilton, Jan Whitaker

Jenny Smith, Sarah Crow

Judy Wedel, Sue George

Ellen O’Riordan, Debbie Hambleton, jane Mulvey

Last few tables for Boxing Day Lunch £28.95pp (5 -12years £15) Served between 12pm and 2pm, Children under 5 years old FREE

Essential Faces

SAA Agricultural Awards Agricultural leaders from across the region joined together at Trinity Park, Ipswich for the annual showcase of farming excellence and innovation. Now into its fourth year, the Suffolk Agricultural Association Awards Dinner, sponsored

by HSBC, celebrated best practise from food, farming and countryside businesses across Suffolk, Norfolk and Essex.

A full list of winners can be found at www.essentialsuffolk.com/saa-awards-2015

Robert, Katrina, Eleanor, Fiona and Richard Hirst

Stephen and Judith Knight, Camilla and Rupert Brown

Tom Gutteridge, Danielle Bartrup, Helen and Paul Moss

Robert Rous, Marion and Stephen Fletcher, Stephen Unwin

Paula Slater, Brigit Parker, Sue Bennett, Hannah Williams

7:00pm - 9:30pm

L Jonathan Long, Rebecca Gatens, Elizabeth Dunn, Denise and Jeff Claydon

Richard Cook, Bill Baker, Peter Over

New Year’s Eve Gala Dinner £89pp (over 18’s only)

0844 499 1630

(local rate)

www.uffordpark.co.uk

Directory

Essential

DIRECTORY HOMES AND GARDENS

MOTORING

PRINTING

Just Tiles TILE SHOWROOM

The perfect tiles for all the family

Smithfield Melton Woodbridge Suffolk IP12 1NH

Supplying Suffolk with beautiful exclusive tiles since 1998

01394 382067 justtileswoodbridge.co.uk

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My Suffolk

DECEMBER 2015

The Venerable Ian Morgan is the Arch Deacon of Suffolk. He describes his life in Suffolk and how he spends Christmas

How long have you lived in Suffolk?

I moved here when Radio Suffolk first opened 25 years ago – although I had been ordained at the age of 26 I also had a career as a producer in network broadcasting and a presenter on local radio. At that time I was working for the BBC in Sussex and Ivan Howlett, who launched Radio Suffolk, asked me up here and for 18 months I presented the Drive Time programme. Then the Bishop of St Edmundsbury and Ipswich, John Dennis, offered me a parish at All Hallows in Ipswich. So I have stayed in Suffolk and its very much home now. I currently live in Ashfield cum Thorpe, between Framlingham and Debenham. Being Arch Deacon of Suffolk means I am very lucky and cover the whole of east Suffolk including the coast, making sure that everything in the church runs smoothly. I am effectively a regional manager but on top of that I get to stand in as rector at churches in the area on Sundays whenever necessary.

How many services will you be giving at Christmas?

Actually at the moment I have nowhere to go, as I don’t have my own parish.

I’m hoping that I will be asked to do a service at a village church – in previous years I have been in Brundish and Ubbeston. Suffolk churches are wonderful at Christmas, packed with congregations singing carols - it’s glorious. If no invitation is forthcoming I will go to church either in Ashfield or Framlingham.

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Who will be cooking Christmas dinner?

In our house I always cook Christmas dinner – it’s always been my way of winding down after a very busy day.

I lock myself in the kitchen and we eat at about 7 or 8pm. It’s the absolute highlight of the year and the meal is planned within an inch of its life weeks beforehand, as normally, there are anywhere between ten and 12 of us sitting down to eat.

Do you have any other Christmas traditions?

For many years when we were in Ipswich we had a Boxing Day walk on Felixstowe seafront, regardless of the weather, as we have a beach hut there.

Felixstowe is beautifully unpretentious and we love it. The walk to Felixstowe Ferry is glorious but it’s also great to sit in your beach hut and watch people and the ships go by. There was a time when it looked a bit faded but recent work on the seafront, including restoration of the seafront gardens, has made a difference.

What do you like about the county?

I am a bit of a foodie and it’s wonderful to live in a county that has outstanding produce from land and sea. The quality of our food is really, really high and being a bit of a cook it’s wonderful to be able to use these foods in the kitchen.

You feel as if you are cooking with something that has been loved all the way to the table. Also Suffolk is a county that’s really confident in its history and where it has come from, it’s not trying to have to prove its history. You just have to look around – we have 400 churches that have been around for more than

1,000 years in many places. It’s wonderful that these villages and communities are still flourishing today with the church at their centre.

Do you have any hobbies?

Before I was ordained I was a professional musician and I still play quite a bit and compose too. Until fairly recently I used to conduct a small choir and I love playing the organ for services if I ever get the chance. My wife Tracey and I also enjoy walking our two dogs – we have a black Labrador called Bella and a Jackapoo called Honey.

If you had some newcomers to visit where would you take them to church?

To the parish church in Aldeburgh because even before I moved to Suffolk I loved the music of Benjamin Britten.

Aldeburgh is one of those places where you get a great sense of community and there’s something quite special about the place.

Is there one picture that sums up the county?

Yes it’s the view of Ipswich that you get when you leave the A12 at Wherstead.

I spent many years in Ipswich and I think it’s one of the most underrated towns in England. It really has a sense of inclusion and helping people. Ipswich Night Shelter for instance has its link to Calais, and people in the town seem to really help migrants to integrate. If I was allowed one other picture it’s across the river from Iken churchyard. It’s a wonderful spot – I hope too many people don’t discover it.

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