Essential Suffolk March & April 2020

MARCH & APRIL 2020 | PRICELESS

Essential SUFFOLK

ON A TURNING WING Alde Valley Spring Festival celebrates birds, flight and migration

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SPECIAL MENTION - Congratulations to Andy Horsup on his 30 Years service, celebrated on January 24th 2020.

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Welcome

Ru Watkins The new Chief Executive of St Elizabeth Hospice in conversation

Watching golden daffodils bob in the breeze it’s a joy to feel that winter is, at last, behind us.

These gloriously positive heralds of the spring mean the days will be feeling longer and lighter as we make plans to get out and about. And what better way to celebrate the new season than with the multitude of festivals taking place in Suffolk. We kick off in March with Aldeburgh Literary Festival – now in its 19th year and once again bringing some of the foremost authors to the county.

15 Suffolk in Brief News from around the county

INK, the festival that develops and produces new short plays will be at New Cut Arts Centre, Halesworth in April and Essential Suffolk caught up with one of its ‘INKredible’ celebrity contributors, Miranda Hart, you can read the interview on pages 38 & 39. Our stunning front cover image is by permission of artist Maggi Hambling, who is exhibiting a selection of new paintings of cormorants as part of Alde Valley Spring Festival which takes place at Great Glemham later in April too.

Our What’s On listings are packed with other interesting events and we’ve put together some inspiring ideas for keeping children amused throughout the Easter holidays, and there’s not a single mention of chocolate! Or you might like to start following the Great Garden Trail – the charity open gardens open in aid of St Elizabeth Hospice – take a look at pages 53 to 55. There’s more news from the hospice too, new Chief Executive Ru Watkins has been sharing his plans for the future of this much needed community service.

So whether you’re following the latest Pub Walk with Darcy, searching for a new home or looking for dining inspiration enjoy reading your latest edition of Essential Suffolk. Why not follow us on Facebook and Instagram too and visit our new-look website essentialsuffolk.com Front cover image: Cormorant and struggling fish, 2020, by Maggi Hambling.

(Doug Atfield photographer).

Miranda Hart, page 38

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C O NTE NT S

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53

Fashion

Gardening

Holiday planning starts here

The launch of the Great Garden Trail

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56

Sustainable Weddings

Homes & Interiors

How to reduce the environmental impact of your celebrations

A good night’s sleep with National Bed Month

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61

What’s On

Pub Walks with Darcy

Property

Where to go and what to do in Suffolk this March & April

A brand new route from Ufford Park Hotel, Golf & Spa

A selection of the county’s finest homes for sale

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Mini Previews

Food & Drink

My Suffolk

Priscilla, Queen Of The Desert, Red Skies, Awakening and A Murder Is Announced

A new season ahead at Ramsholt

High Sheriff Roz Eminson shares her love of Suffolk

Firedance, page 28

28 Firedance Strictly stars Karen Hauer and Gorka Marquez bring their latest show to Ipswich

30 Easter Holidays Ideas for family fun

34 Spring Festivals Aldeburgh Literary Festival, INK and Alde Valley Spring Festival

38 Miranda Hart The actress and comedian making an ‘INKredible’ contribution Fashion, page 43

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BUILDING COMPASSIONATE COMMUNITIES It’s a subject most of us are reluctant to discuss but we all want a good life, and we’d like a good end of life too. Ru Watkins, the new Chief Executive of St Elizabeth Hospice talks to Lesley Rawlinson about his determination to start, and to continue, the conversation

Ru Watkins at Columbine Hall

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RU WAT KI N S , S T E LI Z AB ET H HO SPI C E

H

eading out on a cold but beautifully bright January morning, I could barely believe my luck. I’d arranged to meet with Ru Watkins, the new Chief Executive of St Elizabeth Hospice, to talk about his appointment and his team had suggested we head to Columbine Hall. It’s a stunning moated property that generously opens its gardens to the public as part of the Hospice’s Great Garden Trail and would be the perfect backdrop to chat over a cup of coffee – especially if the sun was shining, and it was.

Ru’s path to the hospice has hardly been conventional. Following a 20 year military career, with active duty across the world, his final role as Chief of Staff at the Royal Centre for Defence Medicine in Birmingham saw him “sorting out medical services so that we could deal with the real problems” he explained. “I worked alongside NHS partners and clinical teams to rehabilitate personnel.

Watching youngsters recovering in particular was just awe inspiring, it taught me a lot about the holistic approach to care and care delivery that I still believe in today”.

The twists and turns continued as he learned about “the business side” of life, working for BT in Asia Pacific and further as Director of Transformation at AO.com. But the step change was to be joining Noah’s Ark, a children’s hospice in London undergoing huge changes. “It was innovative in what it wanted to deliver, combining community with clinical and social care, not just for the child but for the siblings and parents too.”

He spent five years building up the team, building The Ark and working to achieve the goal; that the sick child should actually be a child, first and foremost, and not a patient.

So why the move to Suffolk? “Suffolk has always been in my heart,” explained Ru, “and I think I have my father to thank for that. He loved painting and introduced me to Suffolk’s landscapes and coast as a young man, but when I was first married to Jo, my wife, we were stationed at Colchester and we used to take every opportunity to ‘run away’ to Suffolk at weekends. I’m lucky, I’ve been to many parts of the world but East Anglia is very special, Suffolk in particular.

It’s not just the landscapes and big skies, it’s the feeling of community too.

“I wasn’t sure I could really leave London but I was actually blown away by the Hospice on my first visit. I walked in and just thought wow! It’s so friendly. Yes, we have some very sad days but it’s a place full of laughter and joy, wrapped in a sense of compassion and action.” ‰

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RU WATK I N S , S T E LI ZAB E TH HO SPIC E

Part of the message that Ru is keen to share is that around 70% of the care the Hospice team is delivering is in the communities it serves. Across Suffolk, it looked after more than 3,000 patients in 2019 and with The Kings Fund saying that, by 2040, 75% of an ageing UK population will need palliative and end of life care, the need for hospice services is only going to increase.

“When I was offered the role I felt very lucky and genuinely humbled. I believe that we do hide our light under a bushel – and there’s so much more for us to do. The needs of the individual are always our core focus.

We need to partner with other hospices, there are economies of scale we can take advantage of. We need to further partner with other social and care providers to deliver care, because none of us can do it on our own. We need to work more closely with the NHS and those conversations are already happening. It is about building networks to support the patient and the family.”

The growing cultural shift towards lifting the taboo and talking about end of life care, grief and bereavement is one St Elizabeth Hospice is keen to demystify, especially in its care of young adults. Ru explained, “A lot of care can be necessarily very clinically focussed but Zest – our programme for young adults – has a strong social focus, helping young patients to live their lives, to do the things they want to do and trying not to allow their condition to slow them down. We’re rolling out a holistic model for the young adult, the siblings and parents.”

Ru’s passion is clear and the rolling theme of our discussion becomes Compassionate Communities. “Walking around the hospice, I see so much cutting edge care delivery

already going on. Technology is making us change and we are going to embrace that more and more. But there are a myriad of different things; volunteers, external groups, trained experts – all part of a growing Compassionate Community that can make a real difference to individuals and families who might otherwise feel quite alone. Technology is a vital part of the palliative care journey but it is about personal relationships too.”

And Ru is also clear that reassurance can help to build resilience and confidence to deal with often difficult and complex situations. Giving patients and their families easy access to information, support and resources through the OneCall Helpline, he says, can prevent unnecessary hospital admissions. “Being able to make a phone call directly to us can be a vital help to patients and their families, particularly when they’re feeling vulnerable or confused or just needing direction. It’s really important that we also help GPs to know the service exists so that they can pass the message on too.”

With the development of these lifeline services, the need for St Elizabeth Hospice to continually raise funds has never been greater. “Many of the general public still don’t realise that we’re not fully funded by the NHS and we need to find over 70% of our income ourselves from the local community.

“Volunteers are key: we have 1600 volunteers and every one of them is vital to our continuing success, we like to think of ourselves as all one family. We need a development career path for volunteers – people are familiar with our brilliant hospice volunteers who run our shops, hold a collection tin or jump from aeroplanes but there are so many more opportunities too.

There are so many volunteers whose skills and talents are under used because we just might not know or recognise what they can bring to develop St Elizabeth.

“However philanthropy is vital too. If donors understand the bigger picture of what we’re trying to do in supporting our community, we can make a commitment to deliver their expectations together. Committed, regular giving is invaluable to us, as that allows us to plan our service delivery with a firm financial base.”

It’s a huge task. However, having just celebrated the Hospice’s 30th anniversary, Ru says his plans for 2020 are focussed on laying the foundations for the future: partnership working with the other hospices, building communications and broadening networks across the county and beyond, working with a myriad of strategic partners in income generation, communications, health and social care, using data and IT creatively to support the patient and the family.

“I’m hugely proud of the incredible staff at St Elizabeth Hospice, together our role is to serve our community and we need to be innovative as care provision and our society is changing. We want to learn from all corners of our community about their needs, now and in the future, so we can co-create the compassionate services that the community wants to see.”

INFORMATION OneCall 24-Hour specialist advice 0800 567 0111 Read about The Great Garden Trail, page 53.

To find out more please visit www.stelizabethhospice.org.uk

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SUFFOLK in brief Good news stories from around the county

Local charity, Ipswich Housing Action Group has recently seen two significant changes in its leadership. Jools Ramsey, has joined the organisation as new CEO and Toni Lancaster has stepped up as Chair of the board of Trustees, after the retirement of both previous incumbents. Toni, whose day job is as a project manager on a national community engagement project for Royal Voluntary Service, said that she is relishing the opportunity to work with the charity. “Ipswich Housing Action Group is an amazing organisation to volunteer for. We are a friendly independent charity that offers a variety of support services that anyone who is homeless, or potentially facing homelessness, can access. IHAG are now looking for new Trustees to join the board whose life experience could benefit the ongoing development and governance of the organisation. In essence if you are person focused, have a few hours a month to offer and passionate about community support we want to hear from you.” If you would like to find out more about becoming a Trustee visit www.ihag.co.uk/trustees or email chair@ihag.co.uk

Families of serving RAF personnel and veterans in Suffolk who are finding life tough will be offered unique training to help them identify, and deal with, the symptoms of poor mental wellbeing. The Royal Air Forces Association, the charity that supports the welfare of the RAF family, is offering mental wellbeing awareness training at venues across the UK, some of which will be in Bury St Edmunds. The initiative, named Finding It Tough?, is open to all RAF veterans and their families, plus partners, parents, siblings and children (over 18) of anyone serving in the RAF, as well as anyone working on an RAF station (e.g. MOD civil servants and defence contractors). For more information and to book a place on one of the mental wellbeing awareness courses, visit www.rafa.org.uk/finding-it-tough Lingerie and swimwear boutique Sweet Dreams in Woodbridge is collecting unwanted and unloved bras.

The bra recycling scheme takes unwanted or unloved bras and through a network of bra banks raises vital funds for pioneering breast cancer research. The same bras also help to support small businesses in Africa.

Together with recycling partners, a textile recovery project prevents the bras going into landfill, giving them a new lease of life in developing countries such as Togo, Ghana and Kenya, where bras remain too expensive to produce locally. For every tonne of bras collected, Against Breast Cancer receives £700 to fund research.

Crew, staff and guests aboard Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines’ flagship Balmoral have been joined by a very special guest for its inaugural 2020 sailing, as ‘Elmer’s Travel Trunk’ sets sail on his first adventure with the Suffolk-based firm, to raise awareness of St Elizabeth Hospice. Fred. Olsen sponsored its very own Elmer sculpture, Elmer’s Travel Trunk, as part of ‘Elmer’s Big Parade Suffolk’ in 2019. Fred. Olsen successfully purchased Elmer’s Travel Trunk at auction in October.

Before departing from Southampton, Senior Officers aboard Balmoral presented a cheque for over £15,000 to St Elizabeth Hospice’s Development Director, Judi Newman, following months of fundraising across the Fred. Olsen fleet and at its Ipswich Head Office. Peter Deer, Managing Director at Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines, said: “Our guests, staff and crew have had great fun throughout 2019 raising funds for ‘Elmer’s Big Parade Suffolk’, and we are all so pleased that Elmer’s Travel Trunk can add further stamps to his passport by travelling the world with us across our fleet”.

The work of winners of the 2020 Young Art East Anglia competition will be displayed from March 13 to 15 at Peter Pears Gallery in Aldeburgh.

The annual art competition for Suffolk’s primary school pupils, raises money for Cancer Research UK. This year’s judge, Suffolk based artist Mimi Nicholson, will choose highly commended pieces from different age categories plus first, second and third placed pieces which will then be professionally framed. Chair of Young Art East Anglia, Heidi Norman comments, “We are very much looking forward to collecting the children’s art on this year’s theme of ‘A Moment in Time’ from the 54 participating schools. It is always amazing to see the talented work that our local children produce with the help and guidance from the teachers in Suffolk. The amount we raise towards funds for Cancer Research UK has increased year on year, we are very grateful of the continuing support of Young Art.” www.youngarteastanglia.co.uk

The Hearing Care Centre, is offering free hearing checks at all 26 of its audiology clinics in a bid to encourage local people to make their hearing health a priority. This year’s World Hearing Day theme is ‘Hearing for life: don’t let hearing loss limit you’ and will highlight that timely and effective interventions can ensure that people with hearing loss are able to achieve their full potential in life. Karen Finch, Managing Director and lead audiologist of The Hearing Care Centre said, “Our team wish to raise awareness and spark discussion within the local area. At all stages of our lives, hearing is a vital element for communication, socialising, learning and working.”

To take advantage of a free hearing check (usually £30), call 0800 096 2637. Quote WHD-2020.

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

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What’s On MARCH 1

MARCH 7

Some Kind of Wonderful New Wolsey Theatre, Ipswich

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

Stephen Foster Presents an all-star celebration of Stevie wonder featuring two of the UK’s finest musicians – saxophonist Derek Nash and singer Noel McCalla who come together to celebrate the music of one of the greatest singer/songwriters of all time.

Box Office: 01473 295900 www.wolseytheatre.co.uk Strictly Orchestral – Ipswich Symphony Orchestra Corn Exchange, Ipswich Come along for a fun, family afternoon of orchestral dance music! From Bernstein to ballet, there is something for everyone, and a chance to get up close to a live symphony orchestra. Don’t forget your dancing shoes!

Box Office: 01473 433100 Ipswichtheatres.co.uk

UK, helped by his numerous TV broadcasts and his appearances in the major concert halls as lead singer with The John Wilson Orchestra. This show presents Matt at his best, an engaging personality, singing some of the best songs around.

Box Office: 01473 295900 www.wolseytheatre.co.uk

MARCH 8 Farmers Market Cornhill, Ipswich 10am – 2pm Nine Below Zero New Wolsey Theatre, Ipswich 40 years since Nine Below Zero first offered a rhythm & blues alternative to the punk-pop of the mainstream, the south Londoners promise a supercharged show from start to finish.

Box Office: 01473 295900 www.wolseytheatre.co.uk

Clannad Regent Theatre, Ipswich They’ve sold 15 million records worldwide and had eight Top 10 U.K. albums to their name to date. Their ‘In a Lifetime’ The Farewell World Tour will celebrate their exceptional 50-year career. Without doubt they have done more than any other group to take Irish music and the Irish language to a worldwide audience.

Tickets: £33 to £63 Box Office: 01473 433100 Ipswichtheatres.co.uk

MARCH 14 MARCH 3 – 7

Farmers Markets Long Melford Village Hall 10am – 1pm Old Print Works, Halesworth 9am – 1pm Woodbridge Community Centre 9am – 1pm Wyken Vineyard 9am – 1pm

Absurd Person Singluar New Wolsey Theatre, Ipswich Three married couples. Three kitchens.

Three Christmas parties. Alan Ayckbourn’s comic masterpiece of social climbing in 1970s suburbia fuses a potent mix of farce and black comedy.

Box Office: 01473 295900 www.wolseytheatre.co.uk

MARCH 12

Dad’s Army Radio Hour New Wolsey Theatre Ipswich

Adam Kay – This is Going to Hurt Regent Theatre, Ipswich, 7.30pm Award-winning comedian Adam Kay shares entries from his diaries as a junior doctor in this “electrifying” (Guardian) evening of stand-up and music. Absolute sell-out Edinburgh Fringe 2016, 2017, 2018 & 2019, Soho Theatre 2017, UK tours and multiple West End runs in 2018 and 2019. The accompanying book, ‘This is Going to Hurt’ is a Sunday Times bestseller, and is being turned into a major BBC series.

Box Office: 01473 433100 Ipswichtheatres.co.uk

MARCH 6 MARCH 13 Murder Mystery Evening in aid of Somersham Primary School Somersham Village Hall, Lower Somersham, Ipswich, IP8 4PJ. 7pm “A fistful of a few unforgiven dollars more” – A ‘whodunnit’ radio style play, written

by Tom Hitchcock. Tables of 6-8 available.

Tickets: £12.50 incudes chili supper Information: Jennie Hutchinson 07931 857471 or jenniehutchinson@hotmail.co.uk

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Sing Sing Swing with Matt Ford New Wolsey Theatre, Ipswich Matt Ford (BBC Proms, John Wilson Orchestra, BBC Big Band, Syd Lawrence Orchestra) and his Band perform the hits of Frank Sinatra, Bobby Darin, Sammy Davis Jnr, Tony Bennett, Michael Buble, Dean Martin, Matt Monro and many more. Matt Ford is known as the finest Big Band singer in the

Two actors, two microphones, over twentyfive characters – and lots of sound effects!

The nation’s favourite sitcom returns newminted in this highly-acclaimed production.

Box Office: 01473 295900 www.wolseytheatre.co.uk

WH AT’ S ON

Madama Butterfly Regent Theatre, Ipswich Welcoming back the fabulous Korean soprano Elena Dee and the celebrated international soprano Alyona Kistenyova.

This award-winning opera returns in a new production with exquisite sets including a spectacular Japanese garden and fabulous costumes including antique wedding kimonos from Japan.

Tickets: £15 to £38 Box Office: 01473 433100 Ipswichtheatres.co.uk

MARCH 17

MARCH 17 – 21

MARCH 19

Macbeth New Wolsey Theatre, Ipswich

Meet our consultants on…

Hip and Knee Pain Nuffield Health Ipswich Hospital, 7pm

Shakespeare’s darkest and spookiest thriller.

Battles. Murder. Ghosts. And desire…

Three witches on a heath have a disturbing prophecy for a victorious warrior. Macbeth will be king of Scotland. As this wicked seed is planted, daring Macbeth and his determined wife Lady Macbeth draw bloody draggers and set out on a fateful path. But seizing the crown comes at a terrible price, as guilt grows, enemies draw close and the fight for survival hurtles towards a tragic conclusion…

Box Office: 01473 295900 www.wolseytheatre.co.uk

Meet our consultants on… Arthritis Nuffield Health Ipswich Hospital, 7pm With presentations from our Consultant Rheumatologists and a senior physiotherapist, you can explore your options for private treatment.

Entry: Free (booking is essential) Information: 01473 851960 www.nuffieldhealth.com

MARCH 18 Sir Ranulph Fiennes – Living Dangerously Regent Theatre, Ipswich Both light-hearted and strikingly poignant, Living Dangerously offers a personal journey through the life of ‘the world’s greatest living explorer’, spanning early childhood and school misdemeanours, right through the Transglobe Expedition and his many recordbreaking achievements.

Box Office: 01473 433100 Ipswichtheatres.co.uk

If hip or knee pain are affecting your mobility, you can find out more about private treatment at this event.

Entry: Free (booking is essential) Information: 01473 851960 www.nuffieldhealth.com/hospitals/ipswich #events.

MARCH 20 Casino Night Milsoms, Kesgrave Hall, 7.30 to 11.30pm In Support of the Elena Baltacha Foundation your evening includes welcome drink, $30 of starter chips for playing on the six tables, fabulous prizes for the winning players, gondola-style street food, entertainment by The Hi-Hat Jacks, auction.

Tickets: £65 per person Information: vicky@elenabaltachafoundation.org

LAUNCHING SPRING 2020

A fabulously relaxed R E S TA U R A N T and B A R , open all day with no need to book. Pop in for B R E A K FA S T, B R U N C H , L U N C H , D I N N E R , A F T E R N O O N T E A , cocktails or coffee. www.milsomhotels.com

Milsoms KESGRAVE HALL Hall Road, Kesgrave Ipswich, Suffolk IP5 2PU To book call: 01473 333741 reception@kesgravehall.com

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MARCH 21 Farmers Markets Aldeburgh Church Hall 9am – 12 noon Beccles Heliport 9am – 1pm Wyken Vineyard 9am – 1pm

trumpets – and garden hose, and Suffolk soprano Lisa Cassidy sings the gorgeous ‘vocalise’ by Rachmaninov.

Tickets: from £15 (under 18 all seats £6) Box Office: 01473 433100 Ipswichtheatres.co.uk

Bach and Vivaldi – A Celebration Snape Maltings Concert Hall, 7.30pm

MARCH 24

Aldeburgh Music Club Choir return to Snape Maltings Concert Hall to perform sacred choral works by two of the great Baroque composers – Vivaldi’s Credo RV591 and Gloria RV589, and Bach’s Easter Oratorio BWV249. The beautiful opening sonata from Bach’s Cantata Himmelskönig, sei willkommen BWV281 completes the programme.

Tickets: £18 – £25 (students half price) Box Office: 01728 687110 www.aldeburghmusic.club

MARCH 22 Suffolk Philharmonic Orchestra’s Mothers' Day Family Concert Corn Exchange, Ipswich Bill Turnbull narrates the story of Peter And The Wolf in this Mother’s Day Family Concert.

Antiques Roadshow trumpeter Crispian Steele-Perkins plays large trumpets, small

MARCH 27 – APRIL 1 Oliver Twist New Wolsey Theatre, Ipswich

This event is for anyone suffering with ear, nose or throat issues.

Entry: Free (booking is essential) Information: 01473 851960 www.nuffieldhealth.com

A new play by Bryony Lavery adapted from the novel by Charles Dickens and directed by Amy LeachBorn into poverty and misfortune, Oliver Twist escapes the workhouse for a life of adventure where he joins Artful Dodger, Fagin and their mischievous gang of pick pockets. Oliver Twist is in association with Ramps On The Moon. Now in its fourth year, this pioneering initiative from seven major UK theatre companies is committed to putting D/deaf and disabled artists and audiences at the centre of their work.

Box Office: 01473 295900 www.wolseytheatre.co.uk

MARCH 26

MARCH 28

Meet our consultants on…

Hernia and Gallstone Surgery Nuffield Health Ipswich Hospital, 7pm

“Sounds of Spring” Gippeswyk Singers & Silbury Hill St Andrew’s Church, Rushmere

This event is for anyone suffering from a hernia or gallstones where you can find out more about rapid access to surgery and private treatment options.

Entry: Free (booking is essential) Information: 01473 851960 www.nuffieldhealth.com/hospitals

A Spring evening of lovely sacred and secular choral music conducted by Geoff Lavery.

Special guests – acoustic folk duo Silbury Hill.

Tickets at the door. Supporting local charities.

Ticket price: £10 Information: 01728 746441 www.gippeswyksingers.co.uk

Meet our consultants on…

Blocked Noses and Ear Infections Nuffield Health Ipswich Hospital, 7pm

FEATURING HIT SONGS

HOT STUFF • IT’S RAINING MEN • FINALLY • I WILL SURVIVE I LOVE THE NIGHTLIFE • GO WEST • GIRLS JUST WANNA HAVE FUN AND MORE!

ner Starring Strictly Win

Joe McFadden

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MON 23 – SAT 28 MAR IPSWICHTHEATRES.CO.UK | 01473 433100

WH AT’ S ON

MARCH 29

APRIL 1

Paul Carrack Regent Theatre, Ipswich

Meet our consultants on… Spinal Pain Nuffield Health Ipswich Hospital, 7pm

Dramatic and majestic in its sound, the organ will feature prominently in three choral works at Hadleigh Choral Society’s upcoming Spring concert. All are invited to attend as they perform a series of musical depictions of biblical psalms, requiem mass, and heartfelt poems.

Tickets: £15 (under 25s free) Information: 01473 823791 www.hadleighchoralsociety.org.uk

Nicknamed ‘The Man with the Golden Voice’ in a BBC documentary about his phenomenal 50 year career Paul, whose vocals have graced million-selling songs such as ‘How Long’ by Ace, ‘Tempted’ by Squeeze and the Grammy Award nominated ‘Living Years by Mike and the Mechanics is now firmly established as one of the hardest working, independent musicians on the scene.

Tickets: £32.50, £39.50 Box Office: 01473 433100 Ipswichtheatres.co.uk

Along with a senior physiotherapist, Consultant Spinal Surgeons will be presenting on back pain and private treatment options available.

Entry: Free (booking is essential) Information: 01473 851960 www.nuffieldhealth.com

MARCH 28 AND 29

MARCH 30

Three Women Grundisburgh House Gallery, Woodbridge Road, Grundisburgh

The Joe & Dianne Show Regent Theatre, Ipswich, 7.30pm

Farmers Markets Woodbridge Community Centre 9am – 1pm Wyken Vineyard 9am – 1pm Choral Society Spring Concert St Mary’s Church in Hadleigh, 7.30pm

An exhibition of three female artists capturing the physicality, beauty and intrigue of women. Henrietta Dubrey, Sarah Muir Poland and Sarah Baddon Price. www.artforcure.org.uk

Expect music, comedy and of course a little bit of dance in this never-before-seen variety show from Strictly Come Dancing finalists; Joe Sugg and Dianne Buswell. Glitz, magic and plenty of laughs, guaranteed to leave fans of all ages spellbound.

Tickets: £32.50, £38, £42.50 Box Office: 01473 433100 Ipswichtheatres.co.uk

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APRIL 2 The Carpenters Story Regent Theatre, Ipswich A musical journey through the glittering career of pop’s famous brother and sister duo.

Box Office: 01473 433100 Ipswichtheatres.co.uk

APRIL 3 The Wizard of Oz – Easter Panto Regent Theatre, Ipswich Starring comedy legend Bobby Davro as Scarecrow, follow the Yellow Brick Road to the Regent Theatre this Easter.

Box Office: 01473 433100 Ipswichtheatres.co.uk

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APRIL 4

songbook of all time. Tracing the Fab Four’s journey through the swinging 60s, every tiny detail is forensically observed from their authentic period costumes and instruments, to their witty stage banter and “inflection perfect” vocals.

Tickets: £35.50, £38.50 Box Office: 01473 433100 Ipswichtheatres.co.uk

Farmers Markets Beccles Heliport 9am – 1pm Snape Maltings 9.30am – 1pm Wyken Vineyard 9am – 1pm Magic of Motown Regent Theatre, Ipswich Now in its 13th year and seen by over a million people, it’s no surprise that this show is one of the biggest success stories in British theatre history. Come ‘Celebrate’ with us, as were ‘Coming Out’ to start off a ‘Chain Reaction’ and take you on a musical journey with the biggest Motown party of the year.

Box Office: 01473 433100 Ipswichtheatres.co.uk

APRIL 5 Farmers Markets Cornhill, Ipswich 10am – 2pm The Bootleg Beatles Regent Theatre, Ipswich This year celebrating 40 years since their debut on the West End stage in ‘Beatlemania’, the world’s Premier Beatles band continues to draw critical acclaim with 2 their flawless recreation of the greatest

APRIL 10 Mahan Esfahani Aldeburgh Church 7.30pm Programmes by Bach, Pachelbel and Tallis Tickets: £22 to £10 (21 and under half price) Box Office: 01728 687110 snapemaltings.co.uk Trio Sora Jubilee Hall, Aldeburgh, noon

APRIL 7 – 11 Derren Brown: Showman Regent Theatre, Ipswich The multi award-winning master of mind control and psychological illusion, Derren Brown, is at his very best on stage. His oneman shows have received wide critical acclaim and more Olivier wins and nominations than any other in history.

Tickets: £35 to £60.50 (not suitable for under 12s) Box Office: 01473 433100 Ipswichtheatres.co.uk

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

Two piano trios by Beethoven Tickets £9 Box Office: 01728 687110 snapemaltings.co.uk

APRIL 11 Farmers Markets Long Melford Village Hall 10am – 1pm Old Print Works, Halesworth 9am – 1pm Woodbridge Community Centre 9am – 1pm Wyken Vineyard 9am – 1pm Be My Superstar Britten Studio, Snape, 5pm An interactive opera for anyone over 14 years.

Tickets: £8 Box Office: 01728 687110 snapemaltings.co.uk

Mother’s Day Ufford Park Woodbridge

3 course Lunch £24.50

Children 5-12 years old £12.50 | Children under 5 years FREE

Afternoon Tea £20.00 Sunday 22nd March or

Spoil your Mum on her special day with a delicious lunch or a scrumptious afternoon tea.

Booking essential.

All Mums w be entereill into a FR d prize dra EE w.

t 01394 383555 ext. 300

w www.uffordpark.co.uk

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WH AT’ S ON

classic pop anthems that define being a 21st Century woman.

Box Office: 01473 433100 Ipswichtheatres.co.uk

that has audiences believing at times they are watching the King himself.

Box Office: 01473 433100 Ipswichtheatres.co.uk

APRIL 16

APRIL 18

APRIL 12

Friends – The Musical Parody Regent Theatre, Ipswich, 7.30pm

Matthew Passion Snape Maltings Concert Hall, 3pm Bach’s masterpiece performed by a stellar cast of soloists, Britten Sinfonia and its acclaimed professional vocal consort.

Tickets: £40 to £10 (21 and under half price) Box Office: 01728 687110 snapemaltings.co.uk

Friends! The Musical Parody celebrates and pokes fun at the wacky misadventures of the group of 20-something pals we love from the hit TV show as they navigate the pitfalls of work, life, and love in 1990’s Manhattan.

Tickets: £33 Box Office: 01473 433100 Ipswichtheatres.co.uk

Farmers Markets Aldeburgh Church Hall 9am – 12 noon Beccles Heliport 9am – 1pm Wyken Vineyard 9am – 1pm

APRIL 15

APRIL 17

Girls Just Wanna Have Fun Regent Theatre, Ipswich

The King is Back Regent Theatre, Ipswich

From the writers of the hit comedy Hormonal Housewives, Girls Just Wanna Have Fun is the brand-new musical comedy show that does exactly what it says on the tin. Join the star cast of four refreshingly honest and unreserved girls on a riotous evening of laugh-out-loud sketches and

Ben Portsmouth – The World’s Number One Elvis Tribute Artist. Ben, a multi talented musician, singer and songwriter had Elvis’s DNA in his blood from an early age. His father was an avid Elvis fan and Ben grew up on a diet of Elvis songs. He looks like Elvis, sings like Elvis and has an on-stage charisma

Aldeburgh Voices Orford Church 2pm Music by Britten and James MacMillan Tickets: £18 to £10 (21 and under half price) Box Office: 01728 687110 snapemaltings.co.uk

APRIL 19 Remembering The Oscars Regent Theatre, Ipswich Fresh from their sell-out tour with their highly entertaining and innovative Remembering The Movies, Aljaz and Janette, will be returning with their brand new show Remembering The Oscars. Get ready to celebrate the Oscar winning songs in this exhilarating new dance spectacular with Strictly’s favourite couple, Aljaz and Janette.

Tickets: £28 to £45.50 Box Office: 01473 433100 Ipswichtheatres.co.uk

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WH AT’ S ON

APRIL 21 – 25

APRIL 25

APRIL 29

Private Peaceful New Wolsey Theatre, Ipswich

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

Meet our consultants on…

Cataract Surgery Nuffield Health Ipswich Hospital, 7pm

The Peaceful brothers, Tommo and Charlie, have a tough rural childhood facing the death of their father, financial hardship and a cruel landlord. Their fierce loyalty to each other pulls them through, until one day they both fall for the same girl. And then the Great War comes. Acknowledged by Michael Morpurgo as his favourite work, it tells the story of a country lad fighting a war he doesn’t understand for people he cannot respect.

Box Office: 01473 295900 www.wolseytheatre.co.uk

APRIL 23 The Passionate Quartet: Love, loss and longing ‘Three contrasting composers explore the extremes of human emotion’ St Peters Church, Sudbury 8pm Following their sold-out final concert last year artistic director Orlando Jopling teams up with the same exceptional musicians Simon Blendis, Matthew Ward and Meghan Cassidy to bring you three passionate, beguiling and varied quartets by Beethoven, Janáček and Glass. (See website for other dates and venues) Tickets: £15 Information: www.romanrivermusic.org.uk www.romanrivermusic.org.uk Sounds of the 60s LIVE with Tony Blackburn Regent Theatre, Ipswich Hosted by DJ royalty Tony Blackburn, the show features songs, stories and memories from the golden decade of pop with music performed live by the Sounds Of The 60s All Star Band & Singers.

Box Office: 01473 433100 Ipswichtheatres.co.uk

What's Love Got To Do With It? Regent Theatre, Ipswich Tina Turner fans should get ready to party as the smash hit touring show What’s Love Got To Do With It? arrives in Ipswich in the second year of its massive UK tour.

Box Office: 01473 433100 Ipswichtheatres.co.uk

If you are in need of cataract surgery and would like to find out more about private treatment, come along to our FREE event.

Entry: Free (booking is essential) Information: 01473 851960 www.nuffieldhealth.com Terry Dash Music presents Ian Ashpitel and Jonty Stephens as Eric and Ern New Wolsey Theatre, Ipswich

Trianon Spring Concert Corn Exchange, Ipswich Conductor; Adrian Brown. Soloists; Julie Roberts (soprano) and Tim Gillott (baritone).

A glorious selection of music to put a spring in your step: Beethoven ‘Overture Fidelio’, Elgar ‘Great is the Lord’, March from ‘Caractacus’’, Brahms ‘A German Requiem’ (sung in English).

Box Office: 01473 433100 Ipswichtheatres.co.uk

APRIL 27 Charity Shopping Day The Village Hall, Lavenham, 10am – 3pm Everyone welcome! Hotfooted ladies shoes & sandals (a whole hall full!), collections of ladies clothes, jewellery, fashion accessories, gifts, plants & more… Refreshments & light lunches available.

Entry: £3 to Cancer Research UK (£2 after 1pm) www.facebook.com/charityshopppingday

APRIL 27 AND 28 War of the Worlds New Wolsey Theatre, Ipswich

This is a show for all the family from 8 to 108! A brilliant homage crammed full Morecambe & Wise’s most loved routines, songs and sketches and, of course, a musical guest. This wonderful show, evokes memories of times when whole families would huddle together around the telly to watch those fantastic Christmas specials.

Box Office: 01473 295900 www.wolseytheatre.co.uk

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APRIL 24

You’re the Top! New Wolsey Theatre, Ipswich

Digital Detox Art Workshop National Trust Orford Ness, 9.30am – 4.30pm In an age dominated by our digital life, take some time to switch off in this inspiring art workshop led by artists Susan Barnet and Jane Watt. All digital devices will be switched off or left at home.

Entry: £69 NT Members, £76.50 Non-Members Information: 0344 2491895 www.nationaltrust.org.uk

Originally Commissioned By New Diorama Theatre. Co-produced by Brighton Festival, HOME Manchester, New Theatre Royal, Portsmouth and Nuffield Southampton Theatres. No-one would have believed in the early years of the twentieth century that this world was being watched…”

Box Office: 01473 295900 www.wolseytheatre.co.uk

Join the ten musicians and glamorous female vocalist of Michael Law’s Piccadilly Dance Orchestra for an unashamed wallow in the toe-tapping and tuneful music of the 1920s and 30s. With his cool, urbane manner and mellifluous baritone voice, Michael croons while the audience swoons to the sounds that bring to life the elegant, jazz and swing – flavoured “Art Deco” era.

Box Office: 01473 295900 www.wolseytheatre.co.uk

To see more event listings and tell us about your event visit essentialsuffolk.com/whats-on We cannot guarantee inclusion in print but all suitable listings will be included online.

Relax by the Riverside

The newest inn to join the Deben Inns family is re-opened and fully refurbished. A cosy, warm welcome awaits Church Lane, Levington, IP10 0LQ T: 01473 659573 ship@debeninns.co.uk

The smugglers haunt and artist’s inspiration on the banks of the Orwell Pin Mill, Ipswich, IP9 1JW T: 01473 780764 buttandoyster@debeninns.co.uk

Enjoy glorious views of the river Deben Cliff Road, Waldringfield, IP12 4QL T: 01473 736215 maybush@debeninns.co.uk

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M IN I P R E V IE WS

PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT Ipswich Regent Theatre March 23 – 28 Mark Goucher and first-time producer Jason Donovan’s brand-new production of the much-loved glittering hit musical Priscilla, Queen of the Desert the Musical has been extended into 2020. The show, which was announced in 2018, stars Strictly Come Dancing winner Joe McFadden, and has been touring the UK and Ireland since September 2019. It marks Donovan’s first time as a producer, having performed in the cast of the original West End production and two subsequent UK tours.

RED SKIES Touring from March 18 – May 30 With the Seventieth anniversary of George Orwell’s death this year Eastern Angles are bringing Red Skies, their spring tour, to audiences across East Anglia. Written by Ivan Cutting who also wrote Private Resistance, the play centres on a fictional meeting between two of Suffolk’s most famous residents: George Orwell, who took his name from the Ipswich river, and Arthur Ransome, who lived on it.

The play opens in Southwold just before the outbreak of war, and Orwell’s father is dying. Arthur, along with his wife Evgenia, is sailing up the coast from Pin Mill. When Orwell, who is about to write Animal Farm, learns that Evgenia was the former secretary of Russia’s revolutionary leader, Trotsky, and that Ransome used to play chess with Lenin, he hurries down to the harbour.

Joe McFadden plays Tick/Mitzi, Laurence Olivier Award Winner Miles Western has taken on the role as Bernadette and Nick Hayes plays Adam/Felicia. They are joined by Daniel Fletcher (Bob), Miranda Wilford (Marion), Kevin Yates (Miss Understanding), Jacqui Sanchez (Cynthia). The Divas are played by Nikki Bentley, Claudia Kariuki, Rosie Glossop and the cast is completed by Jak Allen-Anderson, Natalie Chua, Emma Crossley, Jordan Cunningham, Martin Harding, Justin-Lee Jones, Nell Martin and Edwin Ray. The iconic hit musical has more glitter than ever before, featuring a dazzling array of stunning costumes, fabulous feathers and a nonstop parade of dance-floor classics including It’s Raining Men, I Will Survive, I Love The Nightlife, Finally and many more.

Based on the Oscar-winning film, Priscilla is the hilarious adventure of three friends who hop aboard a battered old bus bound for Alice Springs to put on the show of a lifetime. Their epic journey is a heart-warming story of self-discovery, sassiness and acceptance.

INFORMATION Box office: 01473 433100 ipswichtheatres.co.uk PriscillaUKTour.com

Ivan Cutting, on his inspiration for the play said, ‘It was one of those lightening-strike moments. After directing We Didn't Mean to Go to Sea, our play based on Ransome’s book, I was reading a new biography on Orwell and realised the two authors were so close by in 1939 – it was a way of engineering an imaginary meeting and everything flowed from there.’

With their shared interest in fishing, fables and the east coast, the two writers begin a tentative friendship, until a mutual suspicion of spies causes sparks to fly. The extraordinary links between Orwell and Ransome and the women they loved fuels the flames.

Resolution comes in 1950 with a new decade, and Orwell’s final days.

This comic, clever and at times deeply personal new play, probes behind the façade of two famous authors to find the secrets that both inspired and haunted them. With 55 performances across 42 venues in Norfolk, Suffolk, Essex, Cambridgeshire and Bedfordshire, Red Skies is sure to be at a theatre, village hall or community centre near you in March, April and May. INFORMATION Box Office: 01473 211498 (Monday to Friday 10am – 2pm) www.easternangles.co.uk

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Walnut Tree Designs Handmade curtains & blinds from our Suffolk studios We work with interior designers & discerning clients either using your own materials or from our fabric books Complete made to measure and installation service For an initial discussion or to arrange a free design consultation in your home call Terri Oxley M: 07826 930011 T: 01449 403324 E: walnuttreedesigns@gmailcom 2

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Easter Sunday Lunch Ufford Park Woodbridge

Sunday 12th April Served from 12 noon

Celebrate Easter with a delicious 2 or 3 course meal in The Park Restaurant.

2 courses

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Children 5-12 years old half price Children under 5 years old FREE Pre-booking is essential

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Agatha Christie’s

A MURDER IS ANNOUNCED New Wolsey Theatre, Ipswich April 13 – 18 Adapted for the stage by Leslie Darbon and directed & designed by Michael Lunney, Middle Ground Theatre Company Ltd is delighted to present its acclaimed production of a classic Miss Marple mystery.

The residents of Chipping Cleghorn are astonished to read an advert in the local newspaper that a murder will take place this coming Friday at Little Paddocks, the home of Letitia Blacklock. Unable to resist, the group gather at the house at the appointed time, when the lights go out and a gun is fired. Enter Miss Marple, who must unravel a complex series of relationships and events to solve the mystery of the killer...

Now in its fifth year of touring, this lavish production has delighted packed audiences across the UK and Ireland and is brought to you by the company and director who produced the critically acclaimed courtroom thriller The Verdict.

AWAKENING Dennington Village Hall April 11 – 13

Starring Sarah Thomas (Last Of The Summer Wine), Barbara Wilshere (The Lakes/The Paradise Club), Tom Butcher (The Bill/Doctors), Karen Drury (Brookside), Lucy Evans (Coronation Street), Tom Gibbons (The Archers) plus a full supporting cast.

“The packed audience loved every minute” Liverpool Echo.

“The magic of Miss Marple – Show of the week” Irish Mail On Sunday.

“A blissful couple of hours of whodunit fun” The Scotsman.

INFORMATION Box Office: 01473 295900 | wolseytheatre.co.uk

Dennington Arts, often likened to prestigious London galleries, opens its art exhibition ‘Awakening’ over the Easter Bank Holiday weekend, at the newly refurbished Dennington Village Hall.

The annual show attracts hundreds of visitors, including collectors, museum directors, curators, gallery owners, artists and art lovers.

It is the perfect opportunity to enjoy the artworks of prominent and upcoming artists in a historic location.

Suffolk cancer survivor Rosie Mckenzie is the founder of Dennington Arts; “I wanted to be more altruistic, share a space with talented people. Because of my cancer, I think I was more determined than ever to try and do it”.

As well as running the arts community, Rosie, in her late 60s, drives a bus for Saxmundham Free School. With ‘Awakening’ she unites local artists for a collection of works which unfold the human emotions that emerge from day-to-day life experiences. The exhibition is inspired by nature awakening and the joy of that awakening reflected upon the land.

INFORMATION Dennington Village Hall, IP13 8DD

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FIREDANCE Karen Hauer – star of BBC smash Strictly Come Dancing – has teamed up with fellow pro Gorka Marquez to put together a spectacular tour: Firedance.

The aptly named show will see the Latin sensations perform sizzling authentic routines from their homelands of Venezuela and Spain, including Argentine Tango, Flamenco, Contemporary, Paso Doble, Samba and Salsa.

Essential Suffolk caught up with Karen to find out more

FI RE DA NC E

Q: It must be special to bring to the stage these interpretations of dances from your heritage?

Karen: “I love the fact that we’ve managed to have time to come up with such a great concept of dancing from our backgrounds.

Gorka is from Spain and I’m from Venezuela so we have all this passionate dancing in our blood, what we’ve grown up with really. All these incredible fiery dances that people really love and connect with. It’s about the dances that really demonstrate that passion that people have towards one another and that really connect to us and that chemistry we have. It’s quite electrifying for us and we have been able to bring in new ideas and fresh choreography.”

Q: You and Gorka seem to have really struck up an amazing partnership – have there been flare-ups with two fiery Latin tempers on show?

Karen: “Not at all, actually, because I guess we both respect each other so much. We’re very temperamental, yes. We know that we’re both fiery, yeah, but I guess the fact that we know that about each other means it doesn’t need to come out, it doesn’t clash, it means we can work together. We’re so invested in what we’re doing. From the music to the costumes, to every single little detail that’s going to be on that stage, has come from Gorka and myself. We’re going to have a great team around us, a great band, great singers. We’re going to be able to input and be across everything that people are going to be seeing so it is very nice to be able to have that access. It’s coming from a place of, of truth. It’s something that we need, that we’re really passionate about. It’s always a plus that you get to put out there what you really want to put out there. I love working with Gorka.

He’s such a lovely man and a beautiful dancer who I really look up to.”

Q: The tour, Firedance, comes to theatres all over the UK and will you have an amazing live band with you on the stage?

Karen: “We have a beautiful band. We have a couple of strings, drums, guitars, brass, specific instruments that really pull you into the dance and that are going to give that power. And also very beautiful singers.

They’re going to be singing in different languages as well, Spanish and English.

We wanted a really strong but small band that can connect with the audience and connect with us while we’re on stage.

There’s nothing like dancing to a band on stage when you feel that drama, there in your stomach, you feel those strings in your heart. It’s absolutely amazing.”

Q: Your story is amazing – going from Venezuela to New York and the Fame School?

Karen: “I was born in Venezuela and I pretty much grew up with salsa dancing, music playing in the background every morning.

My family had a lot of parties there would be 20 people in the living room dancing, there’s always a celebration in a Latin house.

Funny enough, when I got to New York, things changed a bit for me. I started doing more classical dancing but I still love the drums. I definitely had to grow up really quickly when I got to New York, especially when you go into these dance companies, The Fame School. You have to be on your game and you have to know where you’re going and what you want the focus and discipline behind it, because everybody wants what you want. I love to learn, I was like a little sponge.

Q: You moved to the UK when you got the job on Strictly – is that how you and Gorka met?

“Even to this day I have to pinch myself.

Now that I’m in a completely different country and in the best TV show and then I’m going on my own tour with Gorka, I can’t actually believe this is happening. When I got the call for Strictly I fell on my knees and I cried, I hadn’t worked for four months and was living on my savings. None of the dancers that were there then are there now except Anton and myself. He’s the longest running male and I’m the longest running female. I’ve been in it for eight years. It is incredible it really is and a joy to be around.

I’m gonna be there until they drag me out.

I still can do at least another five to seven years. Gorka and I first met on Strictly, I saw that he loved salsa and he loves the flamenco and those are the dances that I loved as well.

But we actually only started dancing together this year. We just clicked, this is the best partnership ever. We get along so well. We choreograph together so well too. We both said I think we should take advantage of this and do something more and see what happened. And all of a sudden Firedance was born.”

INFORMATION Ipswich Regent Theatre, March 10 Box Office: 01473 433100 firedancelive.co.uk ipswichtheatres.co.uk

Q: What makes this tour so special – is it because it’s so authentic and so personal to you both?

Karen: “What I love is that we’re focusing on certain dances. Because sometimes, if there’re too many things, then it can kind of bleed too much, it can just get a little bit fluffy but we wanted to focus on those fiery dances. Those dances that kind of get people emotionally and let people know that we really want to show that power, that strength but also the beauty that all of the dancers have within them. We’ve narrowed it down to some specific dances because people really love watching the tango or whatever, because they are dances that are really meaningful and that really kind of connect with people and have that power behind them. So we thought let’s connect to those dances. That’s the ticket right there.”

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Keeping children of all ages occupied during the school holidays can be a challenge but here in Suffolk there’s plenty of choice so, this Easter, plan some interesting days out with the help of our Essential guide for family fun in your free time

RIFLES, RAPIDS & REVOLUTION! Little Adventurers Looking for a day out that’s filled with adventure? Spectacular fun for all ages, Congo Rapids Adventure Golf at Ufford Park Hotel, Golf & Spa offers players the chance to have a bit of fun while honing their putting skills. There’s no need to book, you can just turn up, pay and play.

The Congo Rapids journey begins by travelling on a self-propelled raft across the first of the water lagoons. Once across you’re greeted by the scene of a Congo jungle plane crash as you play the first five holes, but beware of the cannibal cooking pot! Be prepared to encounter a tiger, a four-metre tall giraffe and a menagerie of other animals along the way. As you pass through the abandoned temple and ride on a raft into the Lost World where you will be greeted by life-sized dinosaurs; a really great photo opportunity for those who are brave enough!

A menacing T-Rex looks on as you play beside an erupting volcano and a five-metre tall Brachiosaurus waits for you just beyond by the 13th hole, before you head onwards through a giant dinosaur claw.

Step Back in Time When Ipswich Museum opened back in in 1881 it was dedicated to the study of science and art and today the galleries cover thousands of years of both human and natural history ranging from Victorian Natural History to Egyptians, World Cultures to World War II. See the world through Victorian eyes and take a trip around a global zoo including gorillas, lions and even a rare sub-species of giraffe.

The wide ranging collections include The Ogilvie Bird collection, Rendlesham archaeology collections and Death mask of Titos Flavious Demetrios.

You’ll also step back in time to when Ipswich was a vast area of grassland and our ancestors used stone tools. Continue on and discover how we learnt how to use bronze and iron and became a medieval town and then explore Cardinal Wolsey’s birthplace and see how it survived through Civil war, World wars and into a modern era.

INFORMATION www.ipswich.cimuseums.org.uk/visit/ipswich-museum Entry: Free Open: Tuesday to Saturday 10am – 5pm, Sunday 11am – 5pm

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Going Heywire There’s a new temporary exhibition of art made from litter, all discarded by telecom operatives in Woolpit and surrounding villages, at The Museum of East Anglian Life, Stowmarket. The Year I went Heywire asks ‘What do you do when you see litter?’ Artist Chrissie O’Connor decided she would make it into art when she started to notice litter discarded by telecom engineers at junction boxes in her home of Woolpit and surrounding villages. She saw that lots of small pieces of litter add up to a much larger global impact.

The work includes art made from found discarded materials such as crimp connectors, wire clippings, cable ties, crocodile clips, electrical wiring and general debris. A particularly poignant piece is the bunting containing plastic debris collected over the course of 116 days.

The exhibition is open until the end of April 2020 and entry is free.

There’s a range of jungle-themed stamps to collect as you travel too.

If you’re looking to fill the day, take advantage of the Little Adventurers Day Out package where for £15 per child (5-12yrs) you can enjoy a round on Congo Rapids, a main meal from the children's menu and swim in the indoor swimming pool. Offers available until July 31, 2020.

INFORMATION www.uffordpark.co.uk/golf/congo-rapids 01394 382836 Ufford Park Hotel, Woodbridge

3, 2 , 1 ...

INFORMATION www.eastanglianlife.org.uk Iliffe Way, opposite the ASDA supermarket in the centre of Stowmarket 01449 612229 Opening Times: Tuesday to Sunday, 10am – 4pm

G O!

27& 28 MAY EssentialSUFFOLK

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Made in Suffolk There’s still time to visit Christchurch Mansion for the Ed Sheeran: Made in Suffolk exhibition which opened to coincide with the four homecoming concerts in Ipswich last year, and brought his record-breaking Divide tour to an end. It features dozens of personal items never seen in public before, along with stunning paintings and sketches by renowned artist Colin Davidson and photographs by Mark Surridge.

This must-see, exclusive exhibition gives you an unrivalled insight into the making of Ed Sheeran, intimately portraying his creative and musical journey, whilst celebrating his strong connection to Suffolk and its people.

For enthusiastic fans there’s also a well-stocked shop selling a range of bespoke merchandise, including exhibition brochures, gifts, souvenirs, and jewellery designed by Ed’s mum, Imogen.

The exhibition is free to all however timed entry tickets are available at 15 minute intervals.

Booking is required to guarantee a ticket for your chosen time and date.

INFORMATION www.made-in-suffolk.co.uk Christchurch Mansion, Ipswich

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E AS TE R H O LI D AY S

Arms in Action Harwich Harbour, at the mouth of the river Orwell, has always been the best safe haven for large ships between the rivers Thames and Humber. The rivers Orwell, Stour and Deben stretch several miles inland and were ideal highways for trade and raiders. Landguard Fort at Felixstowe dominated the navigable channel on the northern bank of the river Orwell, whilst the Redoubt at Harwich guarded the harbour entrance along with a large battery at Shotley.

Discover the intriguing history as Languard fFort evolved through the centuries and you can even join the 95th Rifles military re-enactment group for a weekend of soldiering, musketry and drill on April 4 & 5.

There’s also a children’s Easter Trail on April 3, complete with a quiz around the Fort.

Rediscover the Industrial Revolution Discover 200 years of inspiring enterprise and endeavour in a small Suffolk town and its remarkable factory with a visit to the Long Shop Museum at Leiston. Displays are housed in a cluster of original grade II listed buildings and amongst them is the Long Shop itself – named by workers ‘The Cathedral’.

The atmospheric galleries and fascinating collections include some great hands-on activities including making moulds with pattern boxes and dressing up. Discover the cosy living van – as used by road makers, shepherds and other farm workers in years gone by. There are guns and ammunition including sections of the Mulberry harbours. There’s the wonderful Richard Garrett ‘Victomatic’ Dry Cleaning Machine, the water tower with its 148m well – the deepest in Suffolk not to mention Consuelo Allen, Princess Marina and other glorious traction engines.

INFORMATION Find out more about this slice of history on our doorsteps by visiting www.landguard.com Open daily from March 23, 10am – 5pm (last entry 4pm)

INFORMATION www.longshopmuseum.co.uk The 2020 season runs from March 17 to November 1.

Open: Tuesday to Saturday 10am – 5pm, Sunday 11am – 3pm

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ART IN EVERY FORM

It’s the start of the festivals season across Suffolk and our ‘County of Culture’ boasts literature, performance, art and sculpture throughout March & April

March 5 – 8

The 19th Aldeburgh Literary Festival Jubilee Hall, Aldeburgh The Aldeburgh Literary Festival will once again be presenting three and a half days of stimulating, thought-provoking talks and discussions plus a number of ‘fringe’ events.

The Festival was started in 2002 by John and Mary James of The Aldeburgh Bookshop and has featured an extraordinary variety of talks, from the local to the global, the serious to the hilarious, the scientific to the philosophical with the intimate atmosphere of the Jubilee Hall making it very special indeed.

This year’s programme, which is selling out fast, includes a play reading written by Aldeburgh author, Jon Canter, in association with INK Festival. Love In Winter is a comedy about the power of the written word. Romantic novelist Suzy Craig has sold nineteen million books, hugely overshadowing the achievements of her sister Alison, who teaches English. Much to the loyal Alison’s annoyance, her husband Mark has never read any of Suzy’s books. He reluctantly agrees to read her latest, Love In Winter. Unluckily for Mark, it’s over six hundred pages long.

His struggle to read it, and the need to say something nice about it to Suzy, have overwhelming consequences for all three characters.

Directed by James Christopher and performed by Helen Bang, Ann Bryson and Michael Fenton Stevens there will be two chances to enjoy the performance.

Other highlights include David Kogan on Protest and Power: The Battle for the Labour Party in conversation with broadcaster, Bill Turnbull.

The battle for the Labour party is dramatic and intense. Labour has shifted from the New Left, to New Labour, to Corbynista Labour. Of the ten general elections since 1979, Labour has won three, all under Blair.

This record of failure, if applied to any other walk of life, would raise the fundamental question: why continue to fight a losing battle?

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The historian David Kogan has worked in the UK and US media as both a journalist and a senior executive at the BBC, Reuters Television, Granada, Reel Enterprises. His first book, The Battle for the Labour Party, published in 1981, remains essential reading on this subject. This new book is based on sixty interviews. It is, writes Nick Robinson, ‘the definitive account’.

And broadcaster and journalist Nick Robinson will be there in person too as he hosts a conversation with Robert Harris. In his latest book, The Second Sleep, Robert Harris, ‘the master of the intelligent thriller’, has given us a novel unlike anything he has done before. Set on Exmoor in 1468, it is a chilling and dark new story featuring a priest who arrives to conduct the funeral of his predecessor. But all is not as it seems and as the story unravels, so does the young priest’s faith in himself and everything he believes.

Throwing light on a literary mystery that has long puzzled biographers and academics, Gill Hornby discusses her new novel, Miss Austen, which delves into why Cassandra Austen burned a treasure trove of letters written by her sister, Jane. Twenty-three years after the death of her famous sister, Cassandra returns to the village of Kintbury. She knows that, in some dusty corner of the sprawling vicarage, there is a cache of family letters which hold secrets she is desperate should not be revealed. As she pieces together buried truths about Jane’s history and her own, she faces a stark choice: should she act to protect Jane’s

FE ST I VAL S

reputation? Or leave the contents of the letters to go unguarded into posterity?

Gill Hornby is the author of the novels The Hive and All Together Now, as well as The Story of Jane Austen, a biography of Austen for young readers.

While the main programme will take place from March 5 to 8 there are a number of associated events with this year’s festival. Joanna Trollope is to do a book signing at the Aldeburgh bookshop on Wednesday March 11.

The Festival Exhibition is taking place at The Aldeburgh Gallery from March 5 to 11 featuring the Sudbourne park printmakers; a group of 30 artists, 16 of whom will be displaying works.

There’s also a special one off event in aid of the Jubilee Hall, on Thursday April 16 at 6.30pm when Craig Brown will talk about The Beatles and his new book: One Two Three Four: The Beatles in Time.

John Updike compared them to “the sun coming out on Easter morning”. Bob Dylan introduced them to drugs. The Duchess of Windsor adored them. Noel Coward despised them. JRR Tolkein snubbed them. The Rolling Stones copied them. Leonard Bernstein admired them.

Mohamed Ali called them “little sissies”. Successive Prime Ministers sucked up to them. For Barack Obama, they “changed the way that we listened to music”. It’s a kaleidoscopic mixture of history, etymology, diaries, autobiography, fan letters, essays, parallel lives, party lists, charts, interviews, announcements and stories; One Two Three Four joyfully echoes the frenetic hurly-burly of an era.

INFORMATION For a full programme of events and booking details visit: www.aldeburghbookshop.co.uk/aldelitfest Email: johnandmary@aldeburghbookshop.co.uk or 01728 452587

April 17 – 19

INK New Cut Arts Centre, Halesworth INK Theatre Company’s annual headline event is INK Festival; sourcing, developing and producing the best new short plays for stage, and radio, predominately from writers with an East Anglian connection.

In five years over 150 new plays have been produced.

From more than 750 new short play submissions more than 40 have been selected to be produced and performed and this year’s INK Festival. Taking place in April at the New Cut Arts Centre in Halesworth, there will also be a follow up tour of nine of the best plays, all over East Anglia, during May. Writers for this year include actress and comedian Miranda Hart (see pages 38 & 39) along with Will Gompertz, the BBC Arts Editor and former Director of Tate Galleries and actor Elliot Cowan. These are in addition to an exciting group of new and established writers whose plays have been chosen from the huge number of submissions.

These short plays are a contemporary art form that festival organisers hope is accessible to everyone; some are sad, some will make you cry with laughter, all are topical, poignant and reflect the world we live in.

Throughout the three days there will also be great poetry from Luke Wright and others, workshops, talks and evening comedy performances including Arabella Weir – Does My Mum Loom Big In This? written by Arabella Weir and Jon Canter plus Arthur Smith with an evening of ‘Laughs, Stories, A Song And A Poem’.

INFORMATION www.Inkfestival.org New Cut Arts Centre, 8 New Cut, Halesworth Box Office: Inkfestival.org or 01986 872555

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April 25 – May 24

Alde Valley Spring Festival White House Farm, Great Glemham

Cormorant and struggling fish, 2020, by Maggi Hambling. (Doug Atfield photographer).

Where else could your eyes feast on Maggi Hambling’s wonderful new Cormorant paintings, displayed in an 19th century barn, while sheep placidly graze in the fields all around? It’s time for The Alde Valley Spring Festival – a month-long celebration of the arts, food, farming and the landscape which sees visitors flocking to Great Glemham.

The Alde Valley Spring Festival is a true delight, a unique rural celebration which marks, for those who have come to know and love it, a high point of the year’s cultural calendar. In a gentle, welcoming setting on a working Suffolk farm, all are invited to enjoy the finest art in a rustic space like no other. During the four-week opening season, barns at the farm become art galleries, each room or building focusing on the work of a different artist.

This year’s Festival takes birds as its theme and is entitled ‘On a Turning Wing’. Festival Director Jason-Gathorne Hardy has curated ‘a celebration of birds, flight and migration’ which borrows its title from an anthology by renowned Irish poet Paddy Bushe, and takes inspiration from his description of a swallow in flight.

For 2020 the Spring Festival Exhibition is organised as a celebration of wild birds and birdlife: their magnificent biodiversity; their varied

Jason Gathorne-Hardy

behaviours and habitats; the form of flight, through both air and water; and the birds’ vulnerability to habitat loss and extinction, both on their home patches and during their seasonal migrations.

A major feature of the Festival Exhibition is a selection of new paintings of cormorants by Maggi Hambling, CBE, who explains: “These Cormorants are the most recent in a series begun in 2002.

I habitually scan the North Sea, or the Thames, in anticipation of a Cormorant’s sudden presence. These horizontal dive-bombers, scudding the waves at high speed, are an endless source of wonder.”

“It is a tremendous honour to be able to welcome fifteen beautiful new works by Maggi to the farm as a central part of this year’s Alde Valley Spring Festival Exhibition” says Curator and Director JasonGathorne-Hardy. “Painted in response to the Festival theme ’On a Turning Wing” they bring a sense of immediacy to the barns – of cormorants semi-immersed or seeming to merge with the sea water, their natural habitat. The paintings are a highlight of the Festival Exhibition, which explores the importance of bird life to our own human lives through the work of Maggi Hambling and a selection of other leading UK artists.”

INFORMATION Open Tuesday to Friday 11am – 6pm (weekends & bank holidays 10am – 5.30pm).

For more information about the Festival Exhibition, Open Studios, Writing Residencies, Farm Suppers, Hedge Quarters Tea Rooms, Festival Shop and Farmland Rebirding Projects visit www.aldevalleyspringfestival.co.uk or email enquiries@aldevalleyspringfestival.co.uk

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INKredible Contributions 38

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IN T E RVI EW | MI RAN DA H ART

Much loved actress, comedian and writer Miranda Hart is among an exciting list of celebrities to write especially for INK Festival.

Essential Suffolk catches up with her to find out more

A

s INK, the UK’s biggest new short play festival, prepares to open at The Cut in Halesworth this April, organisers have released an impressive list of contributors. Dubbed the ‘INKredibles’, well-known names who have written a short play this year include Will Gompertz, the BBC Arts Editor and former Director of Tate Galleries; Elliot Cowan, after his outstanding performances in Ibsen’s A Doll’s House, Peaky Blinders and Luther; comedian Arthur Smith; writer Judy Upton plus, the much loved and star of the screen, comedian and actress Miranda Hart.

But what is it about INK Festival that has inspired her to become involved? “Any organisation that finds unique and innovative ways to bring a new audience to theatre I am all for. Theatre is my first love, along with studio sitcoms, because they are filmed in front of a live audience.

Nothing beats the intimate connection of an audience sharing a live piece of art and I think it’s fantastic that INK are nurturing that experience in exciting, diverse ways” she explained.

So how do your ideas and story lines come about? “With my sitcom Miranda it was the characters that came first and with books it has been the overarching plot and concept.

Either way I think it is vital to find your vision and unique ‘why’ for everything you write”. Hart added, “All I know is that comedy is by far the hardest thing to write!

Although the result you hope for is glorious unifying laughter, the process can be gruelling. You have set yourself up to get a laugh, so that expectation is high”.

But of course she never fails to deliver.

Fans of her comedy were thrilled when she showed her hand at more serious acting, most notably her BAFTA nominated role in Call the Midwife. But is it exhausting when you’re expected to be funny all the time?

“I usually forget that people might expect me to be funny, in that I forget in my everyday life that I am well-known! The times I have felt I should be like ‘Miranda’ so as not to disappoint fans I soon realised was the root to madness. You have to be yourself and not what people expect.

“As for acting, my heart will always be comedy first, but I would love the chance to play a variety of parts. I should be so lucky – to quote Kylie Minogue! In the recently released film Emma, I fell in love with my character Miss Bates – yes she’s ridiculous and a comedy foil in the piece, but she has the most important qualities of all – gentleness, kindness, humility and quick to forgive.

What’s not to love?! And there was nothing not to love about being on the set of Emma – a lot of laughs, particularly when Bill Nighy started improvising about a strong love he had for a horse – you might have had to be there but I believe they might be releasing the outtake on social media. I really hope people enjoy the film. I think it’s sumptuous”.

“I usually forget that people might expect me to be funny, in that I forget in my everyday life that I am well-known!

The times I have felt I should be like ‘Miranda’ so as not to disappoint fans I soon realised was the root to madness”

Being so well known for her sitcom antics makes it difficult not to frivolously ask if any of ‘on-screen Miranda’ flows into her everyday life? For example can she pick up a grapefruit in the supermarket without giving it a name à la her Fruit Friends sketch? “This is one of my favourite interview questions ever! My onscreen alter-ego taught me to find the fun and good in every day; which is also why I wrote the book Miranda’s Daily Dose of Such Fun. I try to remind myself and adults never to lose their sense of play. For me, that often means ridiculous dancing, wherever and whenever possible; especially around tasks I find dull like shopping or cooking! We should never stop making Fruit Friends…”

And finally, what should we expect from the new play? “It explores comedically the underlying tension of parent child dynamics, heightened because they are all attempting a jolly holiday together. I think a lot of us have been there!”

INFORMATION THE INK FESTIVAL 17th – 19th April New Cut Arts Centre 8 New Cut, Halesworth, Suffolk Box Office: Inkfestival.org or 01986 872555 www.Inkfestival.org

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F INA NC E

James Wright

KEEPING YOUR PENSION GOING

James Wright, Independent Financial Planner, examines the level of savings needed to maintain a comfortable lifestyle after retirement It’s a tough thing to do, but sooner or later you will need to have a reality check about your finances after you retire. We are all living longer, which means that our pension savings also need to increase to cover our needs as we get older.

The hard facts are these: the average life expectancy for a man aged 50 is now 84, and 87 for a woman aged 50. If a person needs an income of £2,000 per month to live on then they need £26,875 per year before tax. The full state pension is currently £8,767 per year, which means you need to find £18,108 gross per year from your pension fund to generate a net income of £2,000 per month for the rest of your life (based on average life expectancy). Retiring at 67 years old means the average man will need a total pension pot of approximately £250,000 and a woman will need approximately £275,000, due to the additional years. (This figure assumes a growth rate of 5% per annum on your pension savings.)

The required sums assume only living to life expectancy and drawing down from the pension until it reaches £0. As many people live beyond life expectancy, as it’s an average, and investment returns can’t be guaranteed, many are likely to require pension funds in excess of this for retirement.

them. Getting good advice from an independent financial adviser who can look at your circumstances and provide bespoke advice to meet your objectives can be key to achieve the best returns from your money. This could even mean being able to retire sooner.

Tax relief on personal pension contributions is generous. Every UK resident (under the age of 75) has 20% of their contribution paid by the government from basic rate tax relief, contributions may be limited allowances. As an example, for every £80 you pay to your pension provider this is increased to £100 through tax relief. If you pay 40% or 45% income tax then you can reclaim further tax relief of 20% or 25% via your tax return.

Scrutton Bland’s financial advisers work by understanding a client’s circumstances and objectives. In addition, they will look to understand an individual’s attitude to risk and match this with an appropriate asset allocation strategy within any investments or pensions. By investing in a range of sectors including UK and overseas equities, fixed interest assets including government gilts and corporate loans and the commercial property sector, a client’s pensions and investments can achieve growth to meet their objectives over the longer term without them needing to take uncomfortable risks.

There are also other things that you can do – the most obvious of which is to manage your savings! If you have had a number of jobs over your career then you may have multiple pension pots, or you may have a lump sum from a bequest or selling a house. Investing this money wisely sounds obvious, but many people still have their savings in low interest accounts, when with a little effort, their money could be earning much more for

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

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Independent Financial Adviser

Scrutton Bland offer a holistic approach to advice which combines tax and financial planning. To find out more contact James or one of his colleagues at 0330 058 6559 or james.wright@scruttonbland.co.uk

H EA LT H

HELP FOR HIP PAIN Joint pain and, in particular, hip pain can be very restrictive. Damage or wear and tear to any of the elements in your hip joint can result in severe limitations to your mobility or your ability to bear weight on your hip. Here, Nuffield Health Ipswich Hospital looks at its causes and symptoms.

As one of the largest joints in the body, your hip joint supports your upper body as you walk, stand, run, bend and stretch, providing the mobility needed to go about daily life. It bears the body’s weight and the force of the strong muscles of the hip and leg.Yet the hip joint is also one of the most flexible and allows a greater range of motion than all other joints in the body except for the shoulder. Sometimes called the ‘ball and socket’ joint, your hip joint includes a rounded head of the femur (thighbone) that fits into a round, cup-shaped structure on the bone called the acetabulum (a socket in your pelvis).

Your femur and acetabulum bones are connected by strong bands of tissue called ligaments. These ligaments are lubricated with fluid to reduce friction. The muscles around the joint help to stabilise your hip.

A layer of thin tissue cushions the ends of the bones allowing for smooth movement in the joint which is cartilage, designed to help support the joints and prevent bones from rubbing against each other.

Cartilage can however be damaged during your lifetime by accidents, injury or degenerative diseases like osteoarthritis can damage cartilage causing significant swelling, pain and an impact on mobility.

Why do hips become damaged?

Problems can happen over time, or from an injury. Joint damage that develops gradually can be caused by conditions such as osteoarthritis and osteoporosis.

Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis. It is a degenerative disease and is often referred to as ‘wear and tear’ of a joint as you get older. It is painful, as joints become stiff and inflamed when the smooth cartilage lining the joints gets damaged. Without the protection of cartilage, the rough surfaces of your bones rub together as you move, causing the pain that is all too common for sufferers. Simple, everyday things like going for a walk or even getting dressed become difficult. There’s no cure for osteoarthritis and it can get worse with time. However, joints can be replaced successfully, improving mobility and reducing pain.

Rheumatoid arthritis is a type of autoimmune disease. Your immune system usually fights any infection. Rheumatoid arthritis attacks the cells in your joints making them stiff and swollen. In time joints can be damaged.

Osteoporosis is a fairly common condition caused by loss of bone density which weakens the bones, making the fragile and more likely to break, and a hip fracture is one of the most common types of breaks that affect sufferers.

Hip trauma (fracture or broken hip) caused by an accident or fall.

The free movement of joints is essential to staying active, but injury, wear and tear or arthritis can cause significant pain and quickly limit your activities. If one (or both) of your hip joints becomes damaged and causes you persistent discomfort or problems with everyday activities such as walking, driving and getting dressed, it could be time to speak to your GP about a referral to an orthopaedic consultant and further treatment options. They may recommend a conservative course of treatment such as medication, physiotherapy or injection therapy. If the damage is severe, it is possible the joint can be successfully replaced.

Hip replacement A hip replacement is a very common type of surgery where the damaged joint is replaced with an artificial one (known as a prosthesis). Since its introduction in the 1960s, hip replacement surgery has proved to be one of the most effective types of surgery in modern medical history (source NHS). Most people experience a significant reduction in pain and an improvement in their range of movement.

Many of the conditions treated with a hip replacement are agerelated so the procedure is usually carried out in older adults aged between 60 and 80. However, it is performed in younger people, depending on the nature of the damage. The purpose of a new hip and, indeed with all joint replacements, is to relieve pain, improve the functionality, improve ability and to improve quality of life.

Nuffield Health Ipswich Hospital offers a comprehensive range of orthopaedic services including hip replacements, extensive diagnostic and imaging facilities, and onsite physiotherapy.

With pay as you go treatment built around you, at Nuffield Health you can feel better faster with no need for insurance and interest-free loans to help spread the cost.

If you are suffering from joint pain, we have several free events coming up for those who would like to explore their options for treatment.

TUESDAY 17TH MARCH, 7PM MEET OUR EXPERTS ON ARTHRITIS THURSDAY 19TH MARCH, 7PM MEET OUR EXPERTS ON HIP & KNEE PAIN WEDNESDAY 1ST APRIL, 7PM MEET OUR EXPERTS ON BACK PAIN Spaces are limited and booking is essential on 01473 279179.

To find out more about Nuffield Health Ipswich Hospital, visit www.nuffieldhealth.com/ipswichhospital for details of our Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeons and how you can pay for your treatment,or telephone 01473 851960 for information on how to book an appointment.

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On the Beach If your spring cruise or summer holiday is already booked it’s time to shop.

Woodbridge lingerie and swimwear specialists Sweet Dreams share their Spring/Summer 2020 collections

Marie Jo bikini top £68.90 briefs £43.90

Prima Donna Swim Sirocco bikini top £87.90 briefs £53.90

Marie Jo Celine jumpsuit £68.90

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WE DD ING S

Wedding trends come and wedding trends go, but the watch-word for 2020 is sustainability and it’s not just a trend. In the past year millions more of us have joined the movement to protect the planet and whether we see ourselves as part of a global movement or quietly care for our corner of the world, question marks are raised every day about the environmental impact of our lives.

Essential Suffolk looks at ideas for sustainable weddings

To Have, Hold and Sustain

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edding planning and preparations can throw couples into ethical turmoil as they balance the impact of their celebrations with their lasting impact on the environment.

There have been some conscious contributions to the cause; notably Princess Euginie’s ‘plastic free big day’ – but is it really that easy to have both enjoyment and ethics?

Keep it Local One of the most basic choices that is within reach of every couple is to simply reduce mileage – on everything. From the distance you’ll actually travel to your wedding venue, to that travelled by the majority of your guests and your suppliers, you can make a decision to choose a location that is easily accessible, maybe even on foot.

If you have large numbers of guests travelling to and from key locations you could consider mini bus or coach hire, especially where one side of the family isn’t local to the venue.

It’s a good question to ask your suppliers too. Does your catering company bring staff via a mini bus to save lots of car journeys? Is the menu sourced locally? If you can cut the unnecessary miles wherever possible, you’ll have made a positive first move.

Aim Higher with Hire Although buying might be the first thought always test the idea of hire. Will you really do anything with your dress afterwards? Or would the photographic memory of an ethically hired dress be more kind to your conscience? Virtually everything you will need for your wedding can be hired and again it’s about balance; what will really make a difference if it’s yours to keep? If you make the decision from the point of view of “what are our choices if we hire?” rather than “we want this – can it be hired?” you’re far more likely to fulfil your sustainability aspirations.

Technology

Susatinably Seasonal You might apply this to your flowers, your food and drinks choices and even to your other decorations but by keeping selections in season, using ‘potted’ rather than ‘cut’ and eliminating plastic impersonators you’ll create a theme to your wedding that perfectly suits the day, the time of year and the location you’ve chosen. If you’re hand making table decorations plan time for using fresh flowers and foliage rather than pre-prepared ones. Use paper over fabric, string or raffia rather than ribbon, but most importantly source the items ethically. If you’re choosing gifts for key members of your wedding party you could consider plants, or experience vouchers.

Most brides and grooms provide wedding favours too. Maybe yours could be a charity donation, wildflowers seeds, handmade soaps or even tree seedlings – these will really get your guests talking and provide a lasting memory of sharing your special day with you.

WEDDING Open Day

Sunday 8th March 2020 11.00am - 3.00pm FREE ENTRY

One of the beauties of technology is how interconnected we’ve all become. Harnessing the power of online communications to cut out unnecessary post is a huge step in the right direction. While it might not suit all of your guests, why not communicate with the majority via your own wedding website or social media platform? Invitations, accommodation information, menus, gift lists and last minute travel information can all be shared on-line with minimal environmental effect. Save the post for elderly relatives or make a personal phone call to the chosen few.

On the day itself you might also find that your church or ceremony venue is can display hymn or song words, readings or other important information on screens or without the need for a separate printed order of service.

We are delighted to showcase the event space in our beautiful Terrace alongside our chosen LEADING WEDDING SUPPLIERS

COMPLIMENTARY GLASS OF FIZZ ON ARRIVAL & SAMPLE CANAPÉS T: 01473 785267 A: Fynn Valley, Witnesham, Ipswich, IP6 9JA W: www.fynnvalleyterrace.co.uk E: enquiries@fynnvalleyterrace.co.uk

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Pub Walks with Darcy

Sponsored by

Ufford Park Hotel, Golf & Spa is the latest dog-friendly Suffolk venue to welcome Darcy

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When a path that you know suddenly opens up new possibilities it’s a real joy for walkers. Examining maps and make connections from one’s own experiences is worth the time in my opinion and this new Pub Walk is a product of exactly that.

The path around the golf course is a gentle stroll and if you’re only looking for a short walk this in itself will suffice. The loop above Melton is where the views open up, all the way down to the Deben with plenty of opportunity for your dog to have a good run.

Taking the clockwise route around the Ufford park golf course perimeter may seem a simple choice but by joining up with footpaths that take us towards Melton there’s also the opportunity to divert and extend this walk (at point 4) all the way down to Wilford Bridge and along the river path to Woodbridge if you really fancy a longer leg-stretch.

The hotel itself is dog friendly with only the pool and restaurants out of bounds so head back for refreshments, however far you choose to wander.

PH

Ya rm out h

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1

Ufford Park Hotel Golf & Spa

Blox Barn Cottage

7/2

6

L an Old C h u r c h

e

3

Decoy Farm

5 MELTON CP

4 BROMESWELL

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Ufford Park Woodbridge

Everything you need, all under one ‘woof’...

the walk DISTANCE: Approx 3 miles TIME: 1 hour – depending on pace TERRAIN: Sandy /grassy paths and woodland STOPS: Ufford Park Hotel, Golf & Spa OS MAP: Explorer 212 START POINT OS REFERENCE: 291 517 As always please keep your dog under close control and follow any advisory signs. For a printable version of this and more than 70 previous walks go to: essentialsuffolk.com/pub-walk where you will also find more pictures of each walk route.

Our family run, 90 bedroom hotel is set in the heart of Suffolk and is in the perfect location to enjoy one of the many lovely walks around this beautiful county.

Our 2 mile perimeter track is perfect for walking the dog and then popping into The Park Bar for a coffee or a bite to eat.

Locally sourced food is served all day.

Families and dogs welcome.

Always check the map before setting off.

1. From the car park at Ufford park Hotel Golf & Spa head on to the perimeter track where it starts just past the entrance to Congo Rapids Adventure Golf. Please do not reverse the route as walkers and runners are asked to keep to a clockwise direction ensuring they’re always facing play on the golf course.

2. After approximately 1 mile you’ll reach the 15th tee and there’s an opportunity to exit the perimeter track into Old Church Lane.

Turn right. Although the road is very quiet be aware of oncoming traffic and keep your dog under close control. After a short distance you’ll reach Decoy Farm on your left.

3. At Decoy Farm turn left and take the path in front of Decoy Cottage (at roughly right angles to the road and not down to the barns) following the Footpath sign.

4. After approximately half a mile the path goes in to a wooded area with a large tree and an opening to your left. Take this opening and turn right at the footpath markers.

5. When you reach the main road turn right – there is verge and pavement all along.

6. At Old Church Road turn right. It’s a quiet lane but take care as there may be some traffic.

7. When you reach the gate where you left the Ufford Park perimeter track re-join the path but turn left to continue the path in a clockwise direction. The path takes you back to the Clubhouse and Hotel carpark.

t 01394 383555

w www.uffordpark.co.uk

Yarmouth Road | Woodbridge | Suffolk IP12 1QW

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FOOD FOR THE SOUL Lesley Rawlinson discovers the new spring menu on offer at the Ramsholt Arms

S

tanding on the banks of the Deben, soaking up the late winter sunshine it’s the sort of day when spring feels like it’s waiting just around the corner. Storm Ciara is forecast to hit hard overnight but, for now, all is calm and the river is glistening.

It’s a bit early for much activity on the water but dog walkers are out in force and the Ramsholt Arms is bustling.

The pub was reopened in June 2013 by the same family behind the highly recommended Ufford Crown just fifteen minutes down the road. In the winter it can feel remote, so much so that opening hours are limited to weekends, but with the change of season the hours increase and visitors are encouraged to keep an eye on the website and social media for up to date opening times. “We also have a sign down by the main turning to ensure people know whether we’re open – saves having to drive or cycle the last stretch on the off chance” says proprietor Polly Durrant “It’s a helpful addition, especially at this time of year”.

And regardless of the weather outside the cosy interior, complete with wood-burning stove, is always inviting. The huge picture windows mean river views are afforded throughout but we were lucky to bag a table with a stunning, uninterrupted outlook. It’s like food for the soul; to be absorbed and enjoyed – we really are incredibly lucky to have this spectacular landscape on our doorsteps.

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D I NI N G R E VIE W | RAM S H O LT A RM S

New Head Chef, Kevin Attwood, assisted by Junior Sous Chef Daisy Sayward, has put together a classic pub menu, perfect for the venue. With additional dishes on the ‘specials’ board, sandwiches and a kids menu it’s pretty comprehensive. I’d have been disappointed not to find fish & chips and a good burger on the list but it wasn’t entirely predictable.

sticky, caramelised onion marmalade plus a further zingy tomato-based relish; both well-chosen companions along with chunky homemade coleslaw.

We were well and truly full. The strong winter sun through the window was having a soporific effect and so as our cheeks glowed we decided on coffee rather than dessert.

Passing up on Guinness sticky toffee pudding or lemon and ginger treacle tart (to name but two of the tempting choices) wasn’t easy but they’d have to wait for another day.

As the days draw out I know I’ll be heading back to Ramsholt. We’ve already mapped two Pub Walks with Darcy there (visit www.essentialsuffolk.com/pub-walk) and with dogs welcome in the bar it’s an obvious destination for anyone looking to enjoy fresh air and stunning views.

My main course was from the specials board – open fish pie with salmon, smoked haddock and prawns served with green beans and mash. Wow, this did not disappoint; the subtle flavours of the fish, enhanced in a butter sauce with creamy mashed potatoes…. what’s not to love?

It was the sort of dish I would happily order again and again; delicious, comforting and generous.

Starters included tomato soup, deep fried whitebait and a chicken liver pate that had been so popular that day that it had already sold out. My friend, Mrs H, had spotted the rather intriguing sounding Tandoori lamb cutlets with mint riata. Served on a slate with a fresh, crunchy salad the flavours were simply sensational - the charred exterior and perfectly cooked meat within a great balance.

Across the table there was a little indecision.

Local ham steak with brace of eggs, chips and salad was tempting. Smoked chicken salad might have won on a warmer day but in the end field mushroom burger with blue cheese, onion marmalade, fries and slaw was chosen.

I chose the salt and pepper squid to start. I really enjoy squid but there’s always the fear that it might be rubbery. Not here though – soft, battered and well-seasoned with a sweet chilli dip; things had started well.

This was another substantial plate and a tasty twist on the ‘vegetarian burger’. The enormous mushroom was a hearty choice, so much so that only half of its brioche bun was consumed. There was a wonderfully

INFORMATION Ramsholt Arms, Dock Road Ramsholt, Suffolk IP12 3AB 01394 411209 www.theramsholtarms.com The Ramsholt Arms will be recruiting staff for the busy summer months ahead, if interested please email: contact@theramsholtarms.com

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FO O D G AL L E RY

Fynn Valley

Sibton White Horse

Salthouse Harbour Hotel

In the countryside just outside Ipswich, Fynn Valley Café Terrace caters for weddings, celebrations, private parties, charity events, conferences and more. Delicious locally sourced breakfast, brunch, lunch or just coffee and cake. Picturesque views across our golf course. Open to all, non-members welcome. Large group Sunday lunches for family and friends to get together with no room booking fee.

Situated in the pretty Suffolk Village of Sibton, this beautiful 16th-century pub has a wealth of charm and an abundance of character. Enjoy delicious food in a relaxed atmosphere in the bar or restaurant areas.

Recently awarded 2 AA Rosettes, the food at the Sibton White Horse is freshly prepared using the local fresh and seasonal ingredients from Suffolk producers. Take one of the many local walks and build an appetite for lunch – best to book a table just in case it’s busy.

Open every day for a relaxing Lunch, sumptuous Afternoon Tea or an intimate dinner overlooking the stunning harbour.

Head Chef Luke Bailey, winner of the prestigious award of Suffolk Chef of the Year 2019, is passionate about creating delicious food using fresh, honest ingredients. Large selection of wines or enjoy a refreshing cocktail while you soak up the views across the idyllic waterfront. A beautiful place to meet up with friends, whatever time of year.

Open: 8am – 5pm every day Food served 8am – 3pm Please check our website for what’s on and events as opening and food service hours will vary.

Open: Food served lunchtimes 12 – 2pm Wednesday to Saturday (2.30 on Sunday).

Evenings 6.30 – 9pm Monday to Saturday, 7.00 – 8.30pm Sunday. Closed Monday and Tuesday lunchtimes.

Open: Every day from 12pm.

Afternoon tea served daily from 1pm to 5pm.

Fynn Valley, Witnesham, Ipswich Suffolk, IP6 9JA

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

Salthouse Harbour Hotel, Neptune Quay, Ipswich, Suffolk, IP4 1AX

01473 785267 enquiries@fynnvalleyterrace.co.uk www.fynnvalleyterrace.co.uk

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

01473 226789 reservations@salthouseharbour.co.uk www.salthouseharbour.co.uk

Ufford Park

The Artisan Smokehouse

Kingfishers

Open every day, The Park Restaurant offers a relaxed atmosphere, local produce and a seasonally-changing menu. You can enjoy Sunday Lunch in both the restaurant and bar and this is priced accordingly. Afternoon Tea is served throughout the year and this is priced at just £19 per person. Looking for somewhere to hold your family party or a special occasion? We are able to help you plan a menu and can accommodate all party sizes. Open to all; families welcome.

Café & Deli

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

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

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

Our bar, restaurant and terrace have been thoughtfully designed as a welcoming and stylish haven for relaxed indoor and outdoor dining. Fresh, local plates of food to cater for all, so if it’s a breakfast, Sunday lunch, a romantic evening or afternoon tea, you will find what you are looking for. We make all of our bread in house and keep our food miles to a minimum. Family friendly and dogs welcome in our bar area.

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

Please see website for variations in opening.

Food served all day – breakfast until 11.30am

Open: Bar open: Mon to Thurs from 7.30am, Fri to Sun from 7am. Food service: Mon to Weds 9am – 3pm, Thurs & Fri 9am – 9pm, Sat 7.30am – 9pm, Sun 7.30am – 5.30pm

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

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

Swan Lane, Cretingham, Woodbridge, Suffolk, IP13 7BA

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

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

01728 685275 info@kingfisherscretingham.co.uk www.kingfisherscretingham.co.uk

Open: Monday to Sunday 6.30pm – 9.30pm.

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

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Blooming Marvellous Suffolk is blooming and for the fourth year running the St Elizabeth Hospice Great Garden Trail is back to showcase the best gardens in the county.

From March to September, there are more than 30 gardens and events on the calendar, from town and village displays to magnificent woodlands to wander through. Essential Suffolk discovers more

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I

f you’ve been reading the interview with Ru Watkins, the new Chief Executive of St Elizabeth Hospice (pages 10 to 13), you’ll already be acutely aware of the need for continual fundraising for this essential service in our communities. Just in case you skipped to gardening pages first (who wouldn’t in spring!) more than 75% of the £10.1million needed to run the hospice every year comes from funds raised in the local community.

Beth Condie, Community Fundraising manager explains why the Great Garden Trail is so vital; “The wonderful thing about the Great Garden Trail is that it is about the community – celebrating the individuality of gardens and the towns and villages they’re in. It’s not just the big houses but the smaller cottage gardens too”.

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There’s a comprehensive trail map that you can pick up from any of their 31 charity shops across Suffolk, this includes details on opening times, whether the gardens are dog friendly and additional facilities information. The website will give you all the information you need plus there are the usual social media channels to keep up to date on new gardens and events happening over the trail.

Beth continued “Some have real ‘wow’ factor but it’s also about being inspired by how other people use space, getting inspiration for a garden just like yours or mine and enjoying what others have created”.

The ever growing scheme is also helping other community charities too, by combining efforts. “Where a village might already be fundraising – maybe for the village hall,

church or playground – they can partner with St Elizabeth Great Garden Trail and benefit from our support” said Beth. “We share the proceeds and both charities benefit as there’s always uplift for the existing village scheme – a real ‘win win’.”

The Garden Trail – which includes gardens in north Suffolk – takes in some nursing homes where residents may be experiencing the care of the hospice clinical team in the community. “Many have big gardens” explained Beth “and by opening the property to the community the ‘real’ face of the home is open to the public. We work with a number of homes with our Nursing Homes Accreditation Programme and sharing the message of compassionate care.”

G ARD E NING

The trail for 2020 has some stunning highlights; there are 14 unique gardens in Holbrook including an Aquaphonics garden where goldfish help the plants to grow.

Visitors to Felixstowe Open Gardens will have the bonus of two Alvis cars on display at Princes Road and Blakenham Woodland Gardens is one of the only woodlands open on the trail. There’s even a school garden, Kelsale CEVCP School, where the children have explored a more interactive approach, including a volcano display that’s not to be missed!

Hannah Bloom, Income Generation Director for the hospice added “Last year we had over 30 gardens open in aid of the hospice and we would love for the trail to grow even more. We are extremely grateful to everyone who opens their gardens – Suffolk is a beautiful county and the opportunity to admire some of the hard work that goes into local gardens is a real treat.”

INFORMATION stelizabethhospice.org.uk/greatgardentrail

MAKE LIGHT WORK OF YOUR LAWN & GARDEN Large selection of Garden Machinery

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

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A BETTER NIGHT’S SLEEP March is National Bed Month and the Sleep Council is urging us to adopt healthier sleep habits. The aim is to raise awareness of how important a good, comfortable bed is in helping to achieve a good night’s sleep so we’ve asked our good friends from The Sleep Studio to remind us of their top tips for bed buyers

Woolroom Isabella bedstead was £2,499 now from £1,874.25 The Sleep Studio

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H O ME S & I N T ER IO RS

Eaton Comfort single two drawer divan set (double shown) was £649 now £399 Barretts of Woodbridge

Hypnos Serenade Supreme 4’ 6” double bed and mattress, was from £2,009 now from £1,599 Barretts of Woodbridge

Woolroom Amelia bedstead from £2,159.20 (saving 25%) The Sleep Studio

1. Spend your maximum budget and don’t compromise

3. Choosing the right tension is key to comfort and support

Financial constraints often determine how much we spend but we’ll often stretch for something we really want. What value do we put on waking up refreshed to face the day? £1000 over ten years for two people is only 13.6 pence per night, well worth it for a comfortable night’s sleep!

Try to avoid a mattress too soft for you as this will cause your hips and shoulders to pinch in and the spine to curve downwards, putting pressure on joints and muscles which could lead to pain in the morning or throughout the night.

2. Always ask for advice and recommendations Use the knowledge of the sales advisor in the store/online-chat to ask all your questions, they are there to help and will guide you through the process from start to finish. They should genuinely help guide you to your perfect night’s sleep.

Try to avoid something too firm; a mattress which is firm puts unnecessary strain on your shoulder and hips and is unlikely to support the lumber region of the spine causing back pain or stiffness in those high-pressure areas.

The base the mattress is on will also affect the tension. Slatted bases will firm up a mattress significantly, so it is something to bear in mind when deciding on the tension to go for.

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4. The base is more important than you might think

6. Carefully consider the size of your mattress

Consider changing your bed base, as a mattress is designed to contour to you, it will also contour to the base. Whilst it may look in good shape today, ask yourself if the base will last another ten years. An old base can ruin a new mattress very quickly. A wooden or metal slatted base will firm a mattress significantly, so it is always best to look for a sprung option if possible.

The width and length of the mattress - carefully consider the size of the mattress. For example, if there are two people sharing the bed sleeping on a double is like sleeping on a cot mattress! Consider upgrading to a King-size which offers a little more width and also 10cm extra length-perfect for those who are perhaps a little taller.

5. Head and neck support are also very important Pick a new pillow at the same time, the position of the head and therefore the neck and spine are crucial in finding comfort.

Remember to match up your mattress protector/topper with the size of the bed, this will increase the life of your mattress by a couple of years. Always choose a wool protector/ topper to go over a natural mattress otherwise you won’t get the full benefits of a natural mattress.

Relyon Keswick 5’ double divan and mattress, was from £1,389 now from £1,119 Barretts of Woodbridge

Woolroom All Seasons duvet was £189.99 now from £151.99, The Sleep Studio

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Woolroom pillows was £37.49 each now from £29.99 each, The Sleep Studio

H O ME S & I N T ER IO RS

7. Check the contents and filling of your mattress, always choose natural materials Whilst some synthetic fibres and materials may generate comfort they can also lead to a significant reduction in breathability and heat regulation. We strongly recommend considering the inner materials within your mattress-natural fillings such as cotton, hemp and wool will breathe significantly better than polyester fibre, Polyurethane forma and Memory foam.

Woolroom wool duvets from ÂŁ49.99, The Sleep Studio

STOCKISTS Bed month offers available throughout March 2020 only Barretts of Woodbridge 40-42 Thoroughfare, Woodbridge T: 01394 384300 www.barretts.co.uk The Woolroom mattress collection finding the perfect mattress for the bets nights sleep from ÂŁ524.25, The Sleep Studio

The Sleep Studio Sycamore Farm, Somersham Road, Bramford, Ipswich T: 01473 831723 www.thewoolroom.com

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MA RCH & APRI L 2 02 0

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

Hayden Foster

THOUGHTS FROM THE ROSTRUM When Geoffrey Barfoot and I discussed Clarke and Simpson filling James Neal’s boots and writing articles for Essential Suffolk, we thought it would be nice if the Clarke and Simpson Auction Centre ‘fleet’ of auctioneers (if that is the correct noun) take it in turns to offer their thoughts. As a relative newcomer to the world of chattels, it struck me that probably still the most famous antique ‘expert’ from the Eastern Region remains a certain Mr Lovejoy.

On occasions we have the opportunity to sell historic items and memorabilia from the show and there is still tremendous interest from the ever strong fan base and often feverish bidding. The scripts we sold when ‘Flog it’ visited being a particularly good example. The show stereotyped the antiques world and portrayed auction centres as places of dust and dark oak and whilst we still have our fair share of the dust – dark oak forms a very small percentage of what we sell.

As with all things, chattels and antiques have trends and phases and dark oak can be very difficult to sell these days, in fact, on some occasions, it is painted in the way that pine has been for a number of years. There will be those that tell you this is desecration, however, if the other option is the skip or bonfire, one must remember that it can be stripped back again later and polished if fashion changes. Grandfather clocks and grand pianos can bring their own challenges unless from very special makers – one has to remember that the average 21st century house does not have the space for such extravagant luxuries.

On the other hand, I see many, many items selling for strong prices which would until recently have found their way into the skip, in fact some did when I moved to a new house!

Vintage 1950s kitchen cupboards, old workmen’s lamps, gamekeepers’ decoys and old trestle tables to name but a few all sell

Moving Home?

Partner

like hotcakes. As for Ercol tables and chairs (definitely the preferred brand) and 60s and 70s sideboards, we as auctioneers cannot get enough of these in recent times. Vintage audio speakers can also prove to be worth hundreds of pounds as can a single bottle of the right vintage.

The best advice I can give has to be that you speak to an expert before deciding you want to file under bin. Gold can be found in the attic, the garage, the sock drawer or the garden!

INFORMATION Forthcoming Auctions: Antiques & Fine Art – 4th March Art Deco, 20th Century Design – 4th April Clarke and Simpson Auctions, Campsea Ashe, Nr. Wickham Market, IP13 0PS 01728 746323 www.clarkeandsimpson.co.uk

Move in with us REVELLS REMOVALS & STORAGE UK – EUROPE – WORLDWIDE Eastlands Industrial Estate, Leiston, Suffolk, IP16 4LL 01728 830849 | info@revells-removals.co.uk

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P R OPE RT Y

Essential

PROPERTY 62 63 65 67 68 69 76

Jackson Stops Savills Clarke & Simpson James Francis Homes Fenn Wright Mortimers Hopkins Homes

64 Kettleburgh

66 Cretingham

70 Woodbridge

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BRoMESwELL

BaRHaM GREEN

● 2 reception rooms ● 4 bedrooms ● 3 bath/shower rooms

● 5 bedrooms ● 2 bathrooms ● Garden studio ● Workshop

● Secluded & tucked away setting ● Extending to 2,200 sq ft

● Timber studio ● Double garage ● Sheltered gardens ● About 1 acre

● Period farmhouse ● Edge of village setting ● 3 reception rooms ● Stable range ● Paddocks & garden ● About 3 acres

GuidE £895,000

GuidE £775,000

BawdSEy

PiN MiLL

● Vaulted reception rooms ● 4 bedrooms ● 4 bath/shower rooms

● Study ● 3 bedrooms ● Utility room & stores ● Sheltered gardens

● Stunning barn conversion ● Light & bright accommodation ● Garage ● Just over 1 acre ● No onward chain

● Detached former fisherman’s cottage ● 2 reception rooms ● About 0.4 of an acre ● No onward chain

GuidE £595,000

GuidE £775,000

iPSwicH 01473 218218

Tim Dansie

Jonathan Penn

James Squirrell

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

A property to call home

Savills Suffolk 01473 234 800

Capel St Mary

Ringshall

Capel St Mary

5 bedrooms, 5 bath/shower rooms, 4 reception rooms, 2 bedroom cottage/ annexe, outbuildings, beautifully mature gardens.

6 bedrooms, 3 bath/shower rooms, 3 reception rooms, former garage & stores, garden, ponds and meadow, about 2.7 acres.

6 bedrooms, 2 bath/shower rooms, 3 reception rooms, study, barn annexe with 2 bedrooms, garaging, mature gardens, paddock, about 1 acre.

Guide £885,000

Guide £1,350,000

Guide £1,250,000

Hintlesham

Hadleigh

Alpheton

4 bedrooms, 3 bath/shower rooms, 3 reception rooms, garden room, garage and parking, delightful garden, about 1.75 acre.

4 bedrooms, 3 bath/shower rooms, 3 reception rooms, garden room, garage and parking, delightful garden about 0.3 acre.

4 bedrooms, bathroom, 2 reception rooms, study, mature gardens, double cartlodge & log store, about 1 acre.

Guide £875,000

Guide £650,000

Guide £750,000

Woodbridge

Ipswich

Thorpeness

6 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 3 reception rooms, cellar, orangery, walled garden, garaging and parking.

4 bedrooms, 2 bath/shower rooms, 2 reception rooms, cellar, communal gardens, 2 private off road parking spaces.

4 bedrooms, 3 bath/shower rooms, 3 reception rooms, mature front & rear gardens.

Guide £1,500,000

Guide £495,000

Guide £700,000

Talk to us today Peter Ogilvie director 01473 234816 pogilvie@savills.com

Tom Orford director 01473 234831 torford@savills.com

savills.co.uk | follow us on what can we do for you?

MA RCH & APRI L 2 02 0

The Hall Facts Location: Kettleburgh, Nr Framlingham Price: ÂŁ1,750,000 Agent: Jackson Stops

Historic Hall Set well within its gardens and grounds at the end of a long tree lined driveway, The Hall is an imposing country house enjoying a commanding position on the edge of the village, with far reaching views across the picturesque countryside of the Deben Valley.

The house, with its impressive chimneys, dates from the 16th Century and is Grade II* Listed. Within, the well laid out accommodation features two stunning principal reception rooms each with high ceilings, impressive brick fireplaces and deep sash windows. There is a further sitting room and study, together with an inner hall, beyond which is the fabulous

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kitchen/breakfast room by Plain English with a spacious boot room/utility room and separate pantry beyond.

On the first floor the stunning twin aspect principal bedroom, enjoys wonderful views and includes a modern open plan en suite shower room and bathroom. There are four further bedrooms, family bathroom and separate shower room.

The second floor provides two further bedrooms, a living room, kitchenette and bathroom, providing the potential for use as a self-contained flat.

Outside, the tree lined driveway sweeps between paddock and meadows, and beyond the house and gardens to an extensive courtyard, fronting onto which is a multipurpose range of flexible use barns including a traditional timber framed former granary providing three parking bays and a lean-to store with a multipurpose store room/office above. Adjacent is the cart lodge barn providing three further parking bays and utility stores either end and above, which has previously had planning consent for an annex conversion.

INFORMATION Jackson Stops: 01473 218218

Cretingham, Nr Framlingham £595,000

Leiston, Nr Heritage Coast £495,000

An idyllic detached cottage in a standalone position with grounds of approximately an acre, located on a small country lane between Cretingham & Earl Soham. Hand-built kitchen, utility room, cloakroom, dining room, study, family room & sitting room. 4 first floor bedrooms & bathroom. External laundry room & garage. Gardens with orchard area, outbuildings & parking. EPC = E Ref: 6362

A substantial 9 bedroom former guesthouse, with manager accommodation, extending to over 4,000 square feet (374 sqm), offering tremendous scope for a variety of alternative uses subject to the necessary consents, occupying a site of half an acre in the centre of Leiston. EPC = D Ref: 6337

Brandeston, Nr Framlingham £385,000

Athelington, Nr Stradbroke £375,000

A versatile chalet house situated on a small no-through lane within the heart of the popular village of Brandeston, within easy walking distance of the excellent pub. Hall, kitchen, boot room, sitting room, dining room, downstairs shower room & downstairs bedroom. 2 first floor double bedrooms & bathroom. Off-road parking & garage. Manageable garden extending in all to 0.1 acres. EPC = C Ref: 6345

A modern agricultural barn occupying a wonderful rural location with grounds of approximately 5 acres, benefitting from Prior Approval for conversion to a 4 bedroom single-storey dwelling of nearly 3,000 square feet. A further 4.5 acres is available by separate negotiation. Ref: 6356

Melton, Nr Woodbridge £350,000 – Leasehold

Middleton, Nr Heritage Coast £280,000

An elegant ground floor apartment on the popular Malt Yard development, a short walk from the centre of Woodbridge. Kitchen, sitting/dining room, master bedroom with dressing area & en-suite, further double bedroom & shower room. Communal areas including cinema suite, fitness suite, lounge and kitchenette. Courtyard gardens. EPC = B Ref: 6340

A stunning semi-detached cottage, built approximately 4 years ago, located in the desirable village of Middleton. Entrance hall, sitting/dining room, kitchen & cloakroom. Master bedroom, further double bedroom & shower room. Enclosed garden to rear with field views. 2 allocated parking spaces.

No forward chain. EPC = C Ref: 6348

Worlingworth, Nr Framlingham £249,950

Framlingham £155,000 – Leasehold

A charming end-terraced cottage located on the popular Willow Tree Yard development, in the heart of the village of Worlingworth. Kitchen, dining room, utility room & cloakroom. 2 double bedrooms & family bathroom. Enclosed garden to rear. Off-road parking for 2 vehicles. EPC = B Ref: 6361

A spacious ground floor apartment located in a small development, a short walk from the centre of the popular town of Framlingham. Entrance hall, kitchen, sitting/dining room, bedroom & bathroom.

Communal garden to the rear. Private storage area. Allocated parking space. EPC = C Ref: 6359

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

T: 01728 724200

www.clarkeandsimpson.co.uk

MA RCH & APRI L 2 02 0

Ten Pots Facts Location: Between Cretingham and Earl Soham Price: ÂŁ595,000 Agent: Clarke & Simpson

Restored Country Cottage Ten Pots sits in a rural yet convenient location between Cretingham and Earl Soham. It is believed that the property was formerly a pair of Victorian red brick cottages, but it has been one house for many years. The current owners have carried out a superb and sympathetic, top to bottom renovation project on the cottage including rebuilding the chimney and adding ten new chimney pots!

glazed timber units. In the dining room, beautiful gothic-style French doors and windows have been added.

room, cloakroom and dining room, family room, sitting room and study. On the first floor are four bedrooms and a bathroom.

A bespoke kitchen was built by a local craftsman, Jim Baldry, and this has a mixture of granite and solid maple work surfaces.

Throughout the kitchen, utility room and cloakroom there is underfloor heating.

The house stands in lovely grounds, which extend to approximately an acre. As well as garaging, there is also an excellent laundry room. A patio sits adjacent to the house and enjoys fantastic views over the gardens.

The bargeboards and decorative edges have been restored and painted and the windows have been replaced with hand-built double

The cottage now offers stylish and comfortable accommodation over two floors, with the ground floor having a kitchen, utility

INFORMATION Clarke & Simpson: 01728 724200

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01473 670905 07775 788530

information@james-francis.co.uk james-francis.co.uk

Residential Development Opportunity, Stowmarket

Childers Court Guide price £975,000 Planning approved for 13 Town Houses

The Old Villa Guide price £225,000 Planning approved for 3 Apartments

Chapel Mews Guide Price £450,000 Planning approved for 6 Town Houses

The Old Dairy, Felixstowe

Guide prices: No 1 - £525,000 No 2 - £425,000 No 3 - £350,000 No 4 - £365,000

Beautiful bespoke development of four Edwardian homes located in the heart of Felixstowe.

Three minute walk from town centre and sea front.

Penthouse Apartment, Felixstowe

Refurbished veranda

Edwardian architecture

Beautiful sea views

Stunning views from two bedroom top floor apartment. Three minute walk from town centre and sea.

Guide Price £200,000

Selling the most desirable town houses, country homes & properties with character in Essex & Suffolk

fennwright.co.uk

Woodbridge | Woodbridge office

£650,000

• Grade II listed 18th century three bedroom home • Winter views across Fen Meadow and the River Deben • South facing secret rear garden • Walking distance of the town centre • Potential for off road parking • EPC – Exempt

Woodbridge | Woodbridge office

£575,000

• Three bedroom house in fantastic location • Two bedroom attached annexe • Can easily be converted to a larger family home • Walking distance of town and river • Bi-fold doors in the kitchen, utility room • Parking, double garage • EPC – C

Witnesham | Kesgrave office

£775,000

• Detached four bedroom family home • En-suite to master and second bedroom • Kitchen, utility room and dual aspect sitting room • Garage and cart lodge • Off road parking for multiple vehicles • EPC – TBC

Melton | Woodbridge office

£750,000

• Extended and refurbished four bedroom home • Comprehensively fitted kitchen • Near Melton railway station • Close to the River Deben • Walking distance of the Thoroughfare • Good size gardens, ample parking • EPC – C

Felixstowe | Kesgrave office

£599,500

• Fabulous panoramic sea views from balcony • Stunning modern living accommodation • Three bedroom first floor apartment • Modern open-plan kitchen/sitting/dining room • Part of the former Bartlet Convalescent Home conversion • Allocated parking • EPC – TBC

Trimley St. Mary | Kesgrave office

£525,000

• Four/five bedroom detached period home • Two en-suite shower rooms • Easy reach of Felixstowe seafront • Open-plan kitchen/dining/living area • Flexible accommodation • Workshop, garage, parking • EPC – C

Woodbridge 01394 333346 | signaturesuffolk@fennwright.co.uk | Kesgrave 01473 358400

FaMily Run buSineSS WiTh oveR 30 yeaRS expeRienCe

Guide Price £625,000

Woodbridge Riverside

A rare and unique opportunity to acquire this superb two bedroom period cottage which has been tastefully refurbished by the current owners and provides spacious and contemporary living accommodation located next to the most iconic building in Suffolk, e Tide MIll. Ent hall, guest bedroom with en-suite, open plan living dining room with lovely views of the river, modern kitchen, master bedroom and family bathroom. Early viewing advised. EPC: TBC

Woodbridge

Guide Price £490,000

A charming 3 bedroom period cottage offering spacious living areas with modern kitchen/dining room and Bifolding doors to the south-facing rear garden. EPC: TBC

Snape

Guide Price £475,000

A very attractive 4 bedroom detached family house ideally located for the heritage coast. gardens and double garage. EPC: D

Guide Price £775,000

Woodbridge, Town Centre

A beautiful and spacious three bedroom detached house comprising: Ent hall, study, cloakroom, dining room, kitchen/breakfast room, good sized sitting room, master bedroom with en-suite and guest room with en-suite and a further double bedroom and family bathroom. Delightful, well stocked and private garden, garage and off-road parking. EPC: TBC

Melton

Guide Price £690,000

An immaculate 4 bedroom detached family house which offers spacious accommodation, double garage and good sized garden. EPC: B

Framlingham

Guide Price £295,000

COMING SOON A brand new site of 9 detached bungalows. 2, 3 and 4 bedrooms with garages in the historic town of Framlingham. Call for more details.

Guide Price £620,000

Woodbridge

An attractive three bedroom detached bungalow located on the popular Melton Grange development. e property benefits from a very generous plot with a glimpse of the river Deben. Ent hall, kitchen, utility, dining room, sitting room, cloakroom, master bedroom with en-suite and 2 further bedrooms, double garage and well stocked gardens. EPC: D

Woodbridge

Guide Price £795,000

A spacious four bedroom family house in the centre of Woodbridge with ample offroad parking. EPC: D

Woodbridge

Guide Price £535,000

A spacious 3/4 bedroom detached bungalow in a sought-aer area of Woodbridge with garage and southfacing rear garden. EPC: TBC

Guide Price £525,000

Grundisburgh

A spacious and modern 4 bedroom detached bungalow tucked away down a private drive. Accommodation comprises; Entrance hall, kitchen/breakfast room, sitting room, master bedroom with en-suite, two further double bedrooms and family bathroom and bedroom 4 or study. Double garage and private Westerly facing garden. EPC: E

Melton

Guide Price £295,000

A charming 3 bedroom period cottage which has been modernised throughout, gas central heating, garden and parking.

EPC: E

Woodbridge

Guide Price £495,000

A spacious 4 bedroom detached family house which benefits from a large kitchen dining room and spacious family room, South-facing garden and parking. EPC: C

Call 01394 386688 or email info@mortimersestateagents.co.uk

MA RCH & APRI L 2 02 0

The Old Granary Cottage Facts Location: Woodbridge Price: £625,000 Agent: Mortimers

Coastal Charm This is a rare opportunity to acquire a charming Grade II listed period cottage situated right on the banks of the river Deben next to Woodbridge’s most iconic building, the Tide Mill.

There has been a tide mill on this site since 1170; the mill, which was operated by the local Augustine Priory in the Middle Ages was acquired by Henry VIII during the dissolution of the monasteries and eventually granted to Thomas Seckford by Elizabeth I. Today it is run and maintained by Woodbridge Tide Mill Trust.

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The Old Granary Cottage has recently undergone thoughtfully planned renovation including new wiring and plumbing and now offers a truly unique residence, from which the natural beauty of the River Deben can be enjoyed.

views of the river to the east, south and west.

There are also views across the Woodbridge marina, the neighbouring Tide Mill, the Longshed Saxon Ship Museum and views downstream towards Kyson Point. There’s a sliding door to the adjoining galley kitchen.

On the ground floor there’s a guest bedroom and en-suite bathroom with a store room accessed from outside. The first floor is reserved for the sitting / dining room with painted floor timbers, tongue-and-groove panelling to most walls giving a nautical feel and with five windows enjoying spectacular

Stairs lead to the third floor where the master bedroom enjoys views across to Sutton Hoo. There’s also a shower room on this floor and more storage.

INFORMATION Mortimers: 01394 386688

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M Y S U FF OL K

My Suffolk Roz Eminson is Suffolk’s High Sheriff, a role that has its roots in Saxon times and has existed for over 1,000 years. Appointed by the Queen, it is a voluntary, nonpolitical and unpaid role that lasts for one year Do you have any hobbies?

Top of the list would have to be sailing, followed closely by walking our dog anywhere in Suffolk and our other favourite spot is North Yorkshire, somewhere we try and visit annually. Undertaking the odd challenge is also appealing, for instance the Coast to Coast Walk which is the first long walk I did with four friends about eight years ago. I also enjoy playing and watching tennis, skiing and cycling and I have sung in a choir since I was at school.

How long have you lived in Suffolk?

We have had a house in Suffolk since 1986 although we were still living in London then.

I was born and bred in Suffolk and grew up in Hintlesham. Clive and I were keen to return to Suffolk to bring up our family and it became our home permanently when we moved with our baby son, James, in 1989/90 – so we have been here 30 years or so.

What do you love about Suffolk?

I love everything about Suffolk; the people, their humour and ability to chat, the Suffolk accent, the glorious open countryside, woodland, rivers, the coastline and I love the fact that we don’t have many sandy beaches but pebbly ones – far more interesting. We are blessed with a plethora of attractive, historic towns and villages.

If I have to name two; Lavenham – one of the wool towns and Woodbridge – a beautiful Georgian living working town at the head of the River Deben.

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What have been the highlights of your year in office as High Sheriff?

It is very difficult to isolate one or two highlights but I will try. I have met many wonderful people during my year in office but I will never forget when I received a letter from a member of the public asking me for help to recognise the outstanding work of the Lowestoft Police. It was a very difficult and distressing case involving her daughter.

I awarded five police officers with a Judges Commendation.

Another highlight was definitely being the Returning Officer for Suffolk in the General Election, particularly as an election was not on the cards this year. That meant that I was able to announce the result in one of the constituencies and I chose my local one, Suffolk Coastal.

Going to the Old Bailey for a Reception at the invitation of the City of London Sheriffs was an opportunity not to be missed and that only happened by virtue of holding this office. We were treated to a guided tour of the cells, the Judges Dining Room and one of the Courts. One could feel the history, and it was an unforgettable experience.

Tell us about your charity volunteering and FIND. I met Maureen Reynell, founder of FIND, back in 2012 when I was looking for some regular

charity work. FIND is a charity which provides free food parcels and support for people in need. I was committed after one conversation with her – she is very compelling – and started volunteering the following week. I wanted to be metaphorically ‘getting my hands dirty’ doing something that was making a difference. Whilst sorting, stacking, packing and delivering food items may seem a little unexciting, we provide essential emergency support to people in and around Ipswich who really struggle with their lives.

FIND has had a big year this year, not only with increased demand to contend with but a three month building project and moving premises culminating in an Official Opening Ceremony in February. The unforeseen benefit of volunteering is the people you meet, work with and become friends with.

There is a great sense of team spirit and camaraderie at FIND which has a very positive effect on everyone. So the benefit is a two-way street.

With Easter approaching where would you spend a Suffolk day out?

If it's a nice day then a walk anywhere on the Suffolk coast or along an estuary followed by a pub lunch. If the weather is filthy, a trip to Christchurch Mansion in Ipswich, or Gainsborough House in Sudbury or Ickworth House would be high on my list.

Do you have a favourite Suffolk product?

I have got a lot of Suffolk art at home but my favourite is a Tessa Newcombe picture I bought at auction on a whim that hangs in my Hall – fishing boats, seagulls, huts and water. Shall I also mention Aspalls Cyder, an original Suffolk product!

If you were to choose one picture to sum up Suffolk what would it be?

The view across the River Orwell from me towards Pin Mill, sunset any time of the year, half tide and dramatic reflections in the river mud. Glorious and never the same twice.

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