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Welcome… Publisher Alistair Moon Tel: 01394 380723
ADM Media 12 Quayside Place Woodbridge Suffolk IP12 1FA 01394 380723 alistair@admmedia.co.uk
Advertising Sales Enquiries: 01394 380723 07732 468797 alistair@admmedia.co.uk
Design Fizzwig Designs 01473 715599 studio@admmedia.co.uk
While all reasonable care is taken to ensure the accuracy of information included in the magazine, the publisher takes no responsibility for statements made by contributors or advertisers or for loss arising from typographical errors or nonpublication of any advertisement Design, content and compilation copyright © 2013 ADM Media All Rights Reserved
To the season of warm coats, scarves and hats, and hopefully a glass or two of mulled wine! First we have the spectacle of Bonfire Night, always a time of marvel for the young ones. I still remember the thrill of fireworks when I was young (a long time ago!). Next it’s that time of the year again – Christmas! It only seems like a few weeks ago that we were taking down the tree from last year. I must say, I love Christmas and all the food and drink that go with it. If you are planning to go out for a Christmas party we have a whole selection of the best places to go and eat, drink, dance and be merry! Plus, some great gift ideas are also included in our festive section. With the clocks now having gone back, take care in the dark evenings. Merry Christmas and a Happy and Peaceful New Year.
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Alistair Moon
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What to do in November and December… Experience Stowmarket Christmas Tree Festival (CTF) is based in St Peter and St Mary's Parish Church in the centre of the town, however, the whole town gets involved for the weekend of 29th November to 1st December. During this weekend there is a street fair and the town and church lights are switched on. There are also events at the Museum of East Anglian Life. This year will be the eighth Festival held and it will run from Friday 29th November when the lights will be switched and will be open for visitors everyday until Saturday 4th January. Last year 20,000 visitors were welcomed through the doors to see the 240 trees, decorated on the theme 'Nativity'. Seeing this display of lighted and beautifully decorated trees in this12th century building is a beautiful sight and well worth a visit to get people into the Christmas spirit.
Remember
Taste
A series of special remembrance events will be held in East Suffolk and South Norfolk for people wanting to remember a loved one in the lead up to Christmas. St Elizabeth Hospice is holding six Light up a Life events to bring together anyone, not just those touched by Hospice care, who wish to remember and celebrate the lives of loved ones at this poignant time of year. Each event includes Christmas carols, music and readings as well as a time for reflection.Light up a Life Events are free to attend, no ticket is needed just turn up on the day. Your nearest Light up a Life event is being held at: Framlingham: Sunday 1st December 4pm, St Michael’s Church. Ditchingham: Thursday 5th December 6.30pm, All Hallows Hospital, Ditchingham, near Bungay Stowmarket: Sunday 8th December 4pm, inside the United Reformed Church, Ipswich Street. Felixstowe: Sunday 15th December 4pm, Trinity Methodist Church, Hamilton Road. Ipswich: Sunday 15th December 4pm, St Mary le Tower Church. Ipswich: Thursday 19th December 6.30pm, St Elizabeth Hospice, Foxhall Road. For more information visit www.stelizabrthhospice.org.uk/lightupalife
Ipswich Tourist Information Centre, St. Stephens Church, St. Stephens Lane, is preparing for the festive season and holding its’ annual “Taster Day” on Saturday 23rd November from 9am until 5pm. Staff at the Centre will be offering samples of delicious local produce, completely free of charge, including tasty Suffolk jams, juices, and a hot, alcohol free, winter punch. David Stainer, Manager of the Tourist Information Centre said, “The Taster Day is one of our busiest days of the year and is enjoyed annually by many regular local customers as well as visitors – not to mention the staff - and heralds the start of the Christmas season.” Entry is free and all are welcome Full details are available from the Tourist Information Centre on 01473 258070 or email tourist@ipswich.gov.uk
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What to do in November and December…
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Splash Are you brave enough to take an early morning dip on Christmas Day? On Wednesday 25th December hundreds of St Elizabeth Hospice supporters will be taking part in the tenth annual Christmas Day Dip in the sea off Felixstowe. Last year over 400 people took on the sponsored challenge to raise money for the Hospice and around 500 dippers are expected to mark the event's tenth anniversary, this year. Many find it a good way of starting Christmas Day, which can be a difficult time for someone who is grieving. St Elizabeth Hospice’s events fundraiser Emily Sullivan said, “Christmas is a lovely time of year to give something back and remember a loved one. The Christmas Day Dip has grown in popularity every year and the tenth one is going to be bigger and better! Why not come along first thing, do your dip with friends and family watching, then, go home to open your presents and enjoy your Christmas dinner. It’s a great way to start the festivities.” At 10am when the horn sounds everyone will enter the cold sea opposite Manning’s Amusements on Sea Road. The registration fee is £5 per person and participants are asked to raise sponsorship. Or participants can opt to pay £10 to receive a Christmas Day Dip T shirt. Last year the event raised around £40,000 for St Elizabeth Hospice. Register online at www.stelizabethhospice.org.uk. Or for more information contact the fundraising team on 01473 723600.
Gadget If you’ve ever dreamed of creating your own animation, now’s your chance… Hue Animation Studio contains everything a budding animator needs to begin creating stop motion animation videos. Enjoy powerful, easy-to-use, animation software complete with Hue’s market leading Plug ‘n’ Play HD camera with built-in microphone and a unique flexible neck for unlimited positioning options. Create a story and characters, make them from clay or plasticine, design and make sets, compose soundtracks or select appropriate recorded music to enhance a film. Price: £49.95 Available from www.hueanimation.com
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Remember Remember.... A Guide to the Local Firework Displays It’s time for the highly anticipated annual Stonham Barns Firework and Bonfire Night 2013! Returning for its third year, the fantastic evening is being held on Friday 1st November with the display commencing at 7.30pm. This year the gates will be opening from the earlier time of 4pm meaning that you can bring the family for something to eat, a ride on the attractions at the funfair and a wander around the boutique shops before going to get a good spot on the Showground to watch the display. Admission this year is £2 per adult, £1 per child (5 - 16yrs) and under 5’s go free. Parking is free and everyone is welcome to attend.
On Saturday 2nd November in Christchurch Park, Ipswich, The Return of Guy Fawkes will be staged by larger-than-life entertainers from Party Spooktacular as part of the annual Fireworks Extravaganza. Join in the fun at 7pm for the most spectacular Guy Fawkes and lantern procession through the park that you have ever seen with fire jugglers, bands and the
burning of a giant Guy Fawkes on the bonfire. Don’t miss the live music feature from the up and coming new local band ‘Bassline’ The musical fireworks costing over £25000 are designed and fired by the Shell Shock firework Company from Bramfield here in Suffolk. Shell Shock will start at 8pm. The gates to Christchurch Park will open at 6pm. For more information or to pre-book tickets visit the website www.ipswichfireworks.com
A spectacular firework display will take place at Heveningham Hall on Saturday 2nd November. There will be a funfair, two bars, refreshments, and live musuc, with gates opening at 5.30pm. Entrance costs just £15 per car and the evening promises to be a great night out for all of the family. For more information visit www.suffolk-fireworks.co.uk.
Make sure your Bonfire Night goes off with a bang, as you join the crowds at the Museum of East Anglian Life, Stowmarket for their annual Bonfire Night Celebrations, on the Saturday 2nd November. With a spectacular fireworks display, roaring bonfire, as well as amusements and engines in
steam, the museum is the perfect location for an evening of family fun! Gates are open from 5.30pm giving you the chance to enjoy the selection of Old Tyme Amusements and traction engines in steam before the main event. Food and refreshments provided by the Osier Cafe will be available to buy throughout the evening. Keep toasty by the bonfire, which is lit on the top field at 7pm before the fireworks begin at 7.30pm, a brilliant display that’s guaranteed to wow all the family. Buy your tickets on the night - Adults: £5 and Children £4
There will be a Fireworks Night on Tuesday 5th November at St. Alban’s Catholic High School, Digby Road, Ipswich. The gates open at 6pm with the fireworks starting a 7.15pm. Tickets are available in advance costing £4 for adults, £3 for children and a family ticket costing just £15 family (2 adults & up to 5 children). Tickets can be purchased on the gate on the evening costing £5 for adults, £4 for Children and £20 for a family ticket. Free parking will be available at the venue on the night. For more information you can call 07860 255781.
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Robertson wins for fourth year There were run away winners for both the scratch and nett divisions of the Junior Championships at Ufford Park Golf Club near Woodbridge this year. Joshua Robertson (last year’s Junior Captain) won the scratch prize for the fourth successive year with his lowest round to date. He opened up with an eagle 3 on the first and after a few dropped shots in the middle of the round finished with 3 straight birdies with putts from 2 feet, 45 feet and 2 feet on the last three holes for a level par round of 71. James Ovenden won the nett trophy with a 67. This was down to securing pars on 8 holes in his round and will reduce his handicap by 2 shots. ‘’It was great to have so many juniors playing in the Championship and although some of the players that had just secured their 28 handicap were disappointed
with their scores, the experience they will have gained from it will help them in future years.’’ says Stuart Robertson PGA Head Professional. Ufford Park Golf Club is proud of its strong junior section and who will represent Suffolk in the regional final of the Junior team trophy at West Essex on 13th October.
New Head Chef for Le Talbooth Milsom Hotels and Restaurants Ltd is pleased to announce the appointment of Andrew Hirst as the new Head Chef of Le Talbooth, flagship restaurant of the group. Andrew is currently Senior Sous Chef of the Tudor Room restaurant at Great Fosters Hotel, Surrey. Prior to that he spent 18 months at Daniel Boulud’s Daniel in Manhattan, the only New York restaurant awarded 3 stars by the Guide Michelin and 4 stars by the New York Times. Andrew grew up in Essex and trained at Colchester Institute. Upon graduation, he spent seven years working at Auberge du Lac in Hertfordshire, working up to his final role as Sous Chef in Phil Thompson’s team that won a much-coveted Michelin star.
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Stas Anastasiades, Group Operations Director of Milsom Hotels and Restaurants Ltd, said, “The appointment of Andrew marks the next evolution in the 60 year history of Le Talbooth. His skill and passion for great food served without pretention are evident. I’m all the more proud that Andrew is a “local lad made good” as the Milsoms Group has always nurtured local talent through its ongoing partnerships with culinary and hospitality colleges. We’re delighted to welcome Andrew to our team and to have him join our flagship restaurant.” Andrew Hirst said, “Being the Head chef at Le Talbooth means a great deal to me. Throughout my career I’ve always kept an eye on the restaurant as it’s the most
renowned restaurant in my home county. To have the opportunity to take control of the kitchen is a big opportunity that the Milsom family have given to me. I am really excited about the future of the restaurant and working with the whole team at Le Talbooth.”
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ICENI WEALTH MANAGEMENT
Could your estate be caught by inheritance tax? According to the latest statistics released by the HMRC at the end of July this year, total receipts from Inheritance Tax (IHT) increased to £3.147 billion in the tax year 2012-13, this is a rise of 8% from 2011-12. Here in the East of England figures show that we pay the 3rd highest amount of IHT in the UK outside of the South East. Each individual has an IHT allowance of £325,000, and £650,000 for married couples/civil partnerships; estates under this amount are not liable to IHT but estates over this amount are liable for a 40% tax on any value in excess of the allowance. Having an IHT problem is something that most of us just do not consider in our day to day lives and often ignore this thinking that perhaps legislation will change, or the threshold on the allowance will increase. These are all a lot of what ifs!! The longterm rise in property values means that IHT is no longer an issue for the very wealthy. The first action you need to take is make sure you have an up to date Will that reflects your wishes, having a Will written correctly is the crucial first step you need to make, always seek professional help from a reputable solicitor. The HMRC already have a number of annual exemptions that you can take advantage of to reduce the value of your estate, whilst these are not that generous they do in combination with other possible remedies offer an effective way of reducing your estate and therefore save IHT, please follow this link to view them: www.hmrc.gov.uk/inheritancetax/ If you give away a larger sum of money to a family member, maybe as a deposit for a house, you would have to live for seven years after you have given the gift in order for it to fall outside of your estate for IHT purposes – these gifts are known as
potentially exempt transfers, or referred to as PET’s. If you continue to benefit from something you’ve given away, it won’t be exempt from Inheritance Tax and is called a ‘gift with reservation of benefit’. For example; if you give your house away but continue to live in it without paying the market rate of rent, it won’t be exempt from Inheritance Tax. For those who are worried their estate will still exceed the threshold, there are ways to mitigate your potential liability or even remove it completely with careful financial planning, to find the right solutions for you as an individual and your family as a whole, the use of trust and other financial planning arrangements can provide some effective planning strategies, to help reduce or even remove the amount of tax that could be paid on the value of your estate on death. This can be a complex area of Financial Planning and if you are worried about the potential tax bill on your estate seek expert advice from a qualified Independent Financial Adviser. Andrew Ross DipCII, CeFA,CeMAP Independent Financial Adviser Telephone: 07554 441688 Email andrew.ross@2plan.com Iceni Wealth Management is a trading name of 2plan Wealth Management Ltd. 2plan wealth management Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. It isentered on the FCA register (www.fca.org.uk) under reference 461598. Registered office: 2plan wealth management Ltd, 3rd Floor, Bridgewater Place, Water Lane, Leeds, LS11 5BZ.Registered in England Number: 05998270 .VAT Registered: 107831677
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Independent schools still top of the pyramid We are very lucky in the independent sector. Academically selective, we have small classes and it is rare to find an unmotivated pupil - all the ingredients for a successful education. Hence it’s no surprise that independent schools continue to dominate at the top of the educational pyramid. It’s why parents and grandparents are prepared to sacrifice to invest in the future of their children and grandchildren. One in six of those sitting A levels in the country are at independent schools but those candidates gain a third of the top grades, and rather more in modern languages and the hard sciences. DfE performance tables (league tables) are a murky pond, hiding as they do, early entries and multiple sittings. Last year across the country over 100,000 pupils took maths GCSE three times, and over 500 took it six times. More GCSE grades per pupil, whilst enhancing a school’s league table position, do little for (and can detract from) the quality of an individual pupil’s education. The percentage of a school’s pupils who would achieve the virtual EBacc qualification (GCSE passes in English, mathematics, science, a language and either history or geography) gives the measure of the rigour of a school’s curriculum, and the spine behind the flesh of those A*s to Cs. Last year only three Suffolk schools had more than 50% of their candidates achieving the EBacc, and all three are in the independent sector.
The Russell Group universities have defined facilitating subjects as those likely to open the most doors to university in the future. Last year the DfE published for the first time the percentage of pupils of a school’s sixth form achieving AAB, or better, in those ‘facilitating’ hard subjects. Again only three schools in the county – all independent - bettered 20%. And those schools are no more selective in the sixth form than many of their maintained counterparts. Each of Suffolk’s independent schools has a particular style. What’s right for one pupil is not right for another. Some will specialise and invest in large learning support departments whilst others are exceptional in music or drama and they all commit hard to sport. Almost all are rooted in charities with objectives to try and fund pupils from a wide cross section of the community. Parents who have no experience of independent schools are often surprised by just how generous these bursaries and scholarships can be. First-time visitors are not only bowled over by the opportunities available but also by just how normal the schools are and how keen they are to welcome and open their doors to any.
The very viability of universities depends on attracting our top students and any attempt to drive down recruitment from the fee-paying sector to satisfy Government demands for a more sociallybalanced student body is misguided. Many students from relatively wealthy homes attend maintained schools and independent schools now educate a very large number of bright students from low income backgrounds.
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Gifts for her Reindeer Pyjamas Set
Vero Moda Sisters Dot Suede Gloves
£20 www.mandco.com
£9.99 www.getthelabel.com
Enamel Sausage Dog Necklace £20 www.oliverbonas.com
Quilted Velvet Hot Water Bottle Cover
Lavender Gift Hamper
£29 www.monsoon.co.uk
£29.50 www.heatonsstores.com
Envelope Clutch Bag by Poupee Couture £142.50 www.boticca.com
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Wooden Aeroplane Bookends
Gifts for him Christmas Jumper
£19.99 www.giftshop.bhf.org.uk
£35
www.bankfashion.co.uk
Man Flu Gift Set
£9
www.debenhams.com
Telegraph Wire Cufflinks £55 www.coldlilies.com
Christmas Jumper Mug £8 www.next.co.uk
The Everything Chair www.red5.co.uk
£49.95
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Gifts for the kids Telescope
Paint Your Own Desk Tidy £10.00
£20.00 www.elc.co.uk
wwwmarksandspencer.com
Robot Clock £20.00 www.paperchase.co.uk
Santa’s Magic Key £3.50 www.marksandspencer.com
Manor House £130.00 www.elc.co.uk
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It’s behind You!!!!!! At the New Wolsey Theatre, Ipswich they have two shows that should appeal to any age to make your Christmas experience a festive treat for all the family. The rock’n’roll pantomime this year is Dick Whittington – where the streets are paved with the classics in this musical twist of a traditional tale. The best of pantomime with the greatest pop songs are all served up by an astonishing company of actormusicians. The show runs from Thursday 21st November to Saturday 25th January – making it one of the longest running panto in the country. The New Wolsey Theatre not only brings you their yearly instalment of the rock’n’roll panto, but also a cheeky, vibrant children’s show for those a little smaller. Stuff and Nonsense’s The Elves and the Shoemaker will be making themselves at home at the New Wolsey Studio from Tuesday 10th December until Saturday 4th January. Elves and the Shoemaker is for shoemakers aged 3+ and their families, with shows at 11am and 2pm most days over December. There will also be signed performances on Friday 3rd January at 11am and 2pm. For more information, and to make a booking or reservations, please contact the Ticket Sales team on 01473 295900 or visit www.wolseytheatre.co.uk.
Eastern Angles Theatre company are back with a hilarious new Christmas spoof featuring the famous Brontë sisters. Created by Eastern Angles Artistic Director Ivan Cutting with music and lyrics from Simon Egerton this zany new comedy entitled The Brontës of Dunwich Heath & Cliff can be seen in Ipswich and Woodbridge. This year audiences will be pleased to see the return of Eastern Angles’ familiar format using a cast of energetic actor/musicians playing a whole host of mad-cap characters. The first port of call for The Brontës of Dunwich Heath & Cliff will be the cosy Sir John Mills Theatre in Ipswich where the show will open on December 4th. Eastern Angles have been performing their anarchic Christmas shows at this venue for the past 25 years. Second stop will be the Seckford Theatre in the grounds of Woodbridge School where the show will run from 14th until 25th January. Eastern Angles describe their productions as a ‘wacky alternative to the traditional Christmas panto’ – the shows include quick-fire banter, catchy tunes and hysterical comedy performances. — continued over —
Following the huge success of The Taming of the Shrew at Jimmy’s Farm this summer, theatre company Red Rose Chain has announced that they are returning to the Farm for a special Christmas show for all ages. Joanna Carrick’s adaptation of Charles Dickens’ short story, The Magic Fishbone has already wowed audiences and critics and is returning for performances at the Aspall Barn at Jimmy’s Farm from December 19th to January 5th. The Magic Fishbone of the title comes to life as an amazing puppet created by WarHorse Assistant Puppetry Director, Jimmy Grimes and puppeteered by regular Red Rose Chain actor Joel Johnson. Joanna Carrick said, “We loved working at Jimmy’s Farm and we couldn’t wait until next summer to return! The Magic Fishbone will appeal to our Theatre in the Forest audiences.” To book tickets to see The Magic Fishbone you can call the Box Office on 01473 603388 or visit www.redrosechain.com
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It’s behind You!!!!!! — continued from previous page —
Taking the mickey out of the gothic novels of the Victorian literary sisters and their Suffolk cousins ‘plain Jane’ and ‘mad Cath’ Eastern Angles have come up with an outlandish storyline featuring Kate Bush inspired hair, a bumbling parson, a hunky Heathcliff and a wild hen party! This literary spoof will follow in the footsteps of Mansfield Park & Ride and Round The Twist, which lampooned Jane Austen and Charles Dickens. To book your tickets for Ipswich and Woodbridge call the Box Office on 01473 211498 or visit www.easternangles.co.uk.
sell her matches. Cold, hungry and with just one final match flame to keep her warm, she sees a vision of her beloved grandmother. Leaving her troubled life behind, the Little Match Girl is guided up into the night sky by her grandmother who takes her to the moon. Now, on a clear night, if you look closely, you might see the light of a shooting star, or is it a match burning brightly? The Little Match Girl will be at DanceEast, JerwoodDance House from Thursday 12th until Tuesday 24th December. To book tickets contact the Box Office on 01473 295241
Join Wendy, Michael and John as they take a trip to Neverland with the boy who never grows up… Peter Pan! Take part in their pantomime adventure this Christmas at the Ipswich Regent Theatre from Friday 20th until Monday 30th December. Meet a fantastical range of characters along the way including; Nana, Tinker Bell, the Lost Children, Tiger Lily, mermaids, pirates, Smee and, of course, the deadly Captain Hook. Don’t miss this spectacular family pantomime from Enchanted Entertainment, the same team behind ‘Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs’ and ‘The Wizard of Oz’. With an all-star cast, lush sets and costumes, impressive live music, energetic dance routines, lots and lots of laughter and flying that will thrill the child in all of us, come and see Peter Pan soar to new heights at Ipswich Regent this Christmas. To book tickets contact the Box Office on 01473 433100 or visit wwwipswichregent.com
There’s a distinct feeling of humbug at Snape Maltings Concert Hall this December as Ebenezer Scrooge takes to the stage in a new Christmas Spectacular! production by the Co-op Juniors Theatre Company. Based on the timeless Dickens novel, A Christmas Carol, the new show features all the familiar characters, including Bob Cratchit and Tiny Tim, Jacob Marley and a whole bevy of ghosts in the form of Christmas past, present and future. “We’ve taken a fresh look at the Christmas Carol story,” says musical director Nigel Virley, who has also written the script. “We add our unique blend of signature song and dance numbers which enhance the fabulous Dickens tale. It’s many people’s favourite Christmas story, with strong characters and Scrooge’s journey from miser to funmeister!” Christmas Spectacular! is at Snape Maltings Concert Hall for 12 performances from Friday 13th until Sunday 22nd December. For performance dates and times, visit www.coopjuniors.co.uk. For tickets, call the box office on 01728 687110 or book online at www.aldeburgh.co.uk/spectacular. Tickets are from £10 to £24, with group discounts. Coach companies also offer combined travel and show tickets.
Celebrated director and choreographer Arthur Pita brings his magical new dance theatre show The Little Match Girl to DanceEast this Christmas. Based on Hans Christian Andersen's classic Christmas story, this touching tale of an impoverished young street girl's hopes and dreams is beautifully told through dance, song and original live music. A snowy stage sets the scene for an icy cold Christmas Eve, where the Little Match Girl paces the emptying streets, shivering and desperate, trying to
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A Suffolk Christmas Past! David Grimwood remembers Christmas food from his past When I was ten the world was a large place! Memories are of enormous turkeys, plum puddings, roaring fires and presents bigger than your arms could hold. Even the Christmas tree was tall (an optical illusion created by my father by standing a small tree on a table and clever use of red crepe paper) Back in the sixties life was simpler in my mind, I suppose we all had less of the material things, so pleasures came from making and doing. And the food! Oh what joy! My mother was a superb cook – skills inherited from her mother who was the most accomplished Suffolk farmhouse cook. Baking day was stepped up a gear during the festive season with more than a sufficiency of sweet and savoury delights emerging from quite a small kitchen, pantry, fridge and cooker. In the air the tempting smell of warming spice, sweet wafts of treacle, sugar and honey. Fragrant citrus peel, heady brandy, port, sherry and rum. Sweet, sticky ham and of course, from early on Christmas Day the gorgeous aroma of turkey slowly roasting with hints of sage, onion, thyme and rosemary. Somehow the magical view outside of a ‘haw frost’ clinging to the trees was enhanced by this culinary feast to the senses.
purchased indulgence was allowed. Remember the party snacks? Twigletts, cheesy footballs, the assorted nut collection, orange and lemon jelly slices, ‘Eat-Me’ dates, dried figs and curious coloured Turkish Delight! All displayed artistically for the annual gathering for the neighbours on Christmas Eve. Oh! and a drum of fifty ‘John Player Specials’ – centre stage! (How enlightened were we!) Some of the party food was ‘home made’ of course. No gathering would be complete with out a curried egg, prawn vol-au-vent and the ever popular cheese and pineapple ‘hedgehog!’ mini meringues, éclairs and a piece of ‘Danish Blue’ with celery in a tumbler with digestive biscuits would complete the decadence. Happy memories! – Happy Christmas!
David Grimwood is the chef/owner of the much loved Froize – Freehouse Restaurant, Chillesford, Woodbridge, Suffolk, IP12 3PU www.froize.co.uk 01394 450282
Not all the treats were made, these were enlightened times and a little
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The Big Christmas Switch-on The Big Switch-on 2013 promises to be full of even more Christmas wonderment than last year’s big reveal! The Cornhill will be full of street performers on Sunday 17th November from early afternoon onwards, including snow queens, stilt walkers and much more. As the afternoon turns to evening, attention will turn to the full program of on-stage entertainment, hosted once more by Town102 and featuring choirs, theatrical performances and guaranteed snow! The Big Light Switch-on will be at 5pm. With over capacity crowds at last year’s event it is important to arrive early to get the best spot for “The Big Switch-on”, but if you can’t make the event don’t panic the lights will be on every night over Christmas, so why not pop back on another day and enjoy some Christmas shopping under the towns lights!
The Big Switch-On Timetable
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1400 – 1410
Intro by Town 102
1410 – 1430
Ipswich has got Talent Winner
1435 – 1455
Funky Voices
1500 – 1520
Ipswich Hospital Choir
1525 – 1545
Cedarwood School
1550 – 1610
Drums
1615 – 1635
Peter Pan mini play
1640 – 1700
Regent Theatre Town 102 Sketch
1700
The Big Switch-on
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Homemade Gift Idea If the festive season is all about making and baking for you, then edible gifts are the ultimate solution. Not only do you get to demonstrate your culinary skills, a homemade treat is full of love and is guaranteed to wow the recipient. One classic option is chocolate truffles - easy to make and adapt to create a variety of flavours, they have become a festive favourite. For an extra special finish, simply roll the truffles in Flaked Almonds, Chopped Almonds, Chopped Hazelnuts or Toasted Chopped Mixed Nuts. This not only adds additional flavour, but also creates a professional finish, especially if you then place each truffle into a petit four case. Simply place them in a festive box and wrap with decorative ribbon to create the perfect homemade gift.
CHOCOLATE TRUFFLES Ingredients: 150g plain chocolate 150ml thick double cream 25g unsalted butter 2 tablespoons rum or brandy 1 tablespoon Greek Yoghurt Sweet paper or petit fours cases 25g of any of the following: Chopped Almonds Chopped Hazelnuts Toasted Chopped Mixed Nuts Flaked Almonds, roughly chopped
Method: 1. Break the chocolate into small pieces and grind it in a food processor or grate until very fine. 2. In a pan simmer the cream, butter, and rum or brandy. 3. Add the chocolate and mix off the heat until smooth. Add the yoghurt and stir in. 4. Transfer the mixture into a bowl, cover with cling film and cool. Then leave in the fridge overnight, or simply place in the freezer for 1-2 hours until thickened. 5. Take a teaspoon of the mixture and roll between your hands to create a ball shape. 6. Roll each individual ball in the chosen chopped nuts to then place into the paper cases. 7. This recipe should make approximately 40 truffles that can be put into boxes and given as Christmas gifts. They should be kept refrigerated and be eaten within three days. The truffles also freeze well. www.w3hitworths.co.uk
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Have a Cracking, Coastal Christmas at Aldeburgh’s White Lion Hotel The White Lion Hotel, situated on the stunning Aldeburgh seafront, is gearing up for the Christmas season with a spectacular array of special festive party nights and events to get visitors into the Christmas spirit!
Alternatively, Festive Christmas Lunch will be running Monday to Saturday from 1st to 22nd December serving diners a traditional roast with all the trimmings! two-courses £12.50 and three-courses £16.50.
Head Chef Jason Shaw’s roasts are famous but there’s an extra special treat for families on 15th and 22nd December as they can enjoy Santa Sundays; a delicious three-course Sunday lunch, followed by a visit from Santa and a disco to boot! Dance to all the Christmas favourites and get a festive family snap in the Snowdome for a memorable picture of the festivities. Adults £19.95 and children £10.95 which includes a gift from Santa.
The hotel is renowned for its foodie offering and its special Festive Afternoon Tea is sure to tickle the taste buds before the big day. Pure comfort, enjoy a selection of finger sandwiches, warm scones served with clotted cream and preserves, homemade cakes, including mince pies, a yuletide log and a full selection of teas and coffee with Christmas crackers and novelties. Served throughout December from 3pm to 5pm. £12.95 per person.
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Party the night away this Christmas and celebrate the festivities with Party Nights. Whether planning a party on a large scale or a work party, sit down to a three-course dinner followed by a boogie from the hotel’s resident DJ, guaranteed to play all the cheesy Christmas favourites! Prices per person from £24 to £30 dependent on date. Plus, the Fab Beatles are making an appearance on 12th and 13th December. Go back to the 60’s and enjoy Beatles classics with a four-course meal. £45.00 per person. Stay over with room prices starting from £85.00.
Join the White Lion on Boxing Day and watch General Manager Peter Osborne and the team brave the temperatures to take a dip in the North Sea for charity! Return to the warmth of the hotel to enjoy a delicious lunch and Christmas tunes from live pianist. Look out for the boozy trifle with spiced short-bread! Adults £29 and children £14.50. Celebrate New Year’s Eve with a banquet of gastronomic delights beginning with champagne and canapés. An eight-course dinner will be served and there will also be a piper to see in 2014. At 1am all guests are invited to join the White Lion for
Christmas Eve Dinner Dance is just £30 and includes a five-course dinner in the Brasserie. After dinner, enter into the party spirit to dance to live band Pea Green until midnight. Put your feet up, get out of the kitchen and enjoy Christmas Day Lunch in style. Menu highlights of the seven-course spectacle include cod wrapped in parma ham with herby mash, mint pea puree and chorizo and Sutton hoo chicken broth. Adults £70 and children £30. its third annual lantern parade as 100 lanterns are released across the open sea. Menu highlights include White Lion smoked chicken, black pudding, pancetta salad dressed with raspberry vinaigrette; fillet of beef wellington with wild mushroom duxelle, solferino potatoes, gastro savoy cabbage and Adnams sloe gin jus, and baked Suffolk cheesecake with sweet pickled beetroot relish and savoury biscuits. Adults £80 and children £40. For more information about The White Lion Hotel visit www.whitelion.co.uk. Tel: 01728 452720.
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Christmas at the Hall
Christmas is nearly here but it is not too late to get organised. Just think … traditional decorations, stunning trees, thousands of twinkling bright lights, roaring log fires and the aroma of mulled wine…
Festive Fayre Lunch Available Monday–Sunday 25th November until 24th December 2013 12 noon - 2.00pm Glass of Buck’s Fizz and Chef’s selection of canapés on arrival, a delicious choice 3course menu, coffee and mince pies – £29.50 per person
Christmas Party Nights
A very warm welcome to Hintlesham Hall
Why not bring your party to one of our popular Christmas Party Nights and celebrate in style! (from an intimate party of 2 to a large group of 110). Arrive from 7.00pm for 7.45pm sit down. Buck’s Fizz and Chef’s home made canapés, 3 course Christmas meal and then either dance to music from our resident DJ or relax in the lounge. See website or call for dates.
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Christmas Day Lunch Wednesday 25th December, 2013. 12 noon to 4.00pm Let us do all the work so you can relax. Champagne and canapés on arrival, fourcourse lunch plus coffee and baby mince pies. £110 per adult, £49.50 child 5-12yrs (under 4’s free)
Boxing Day Lunch Thursday 26th December, 2013. 12 noon to 3.00pm Live muic and a mouthwatering lunch. £49.50 per adult £25 child (under 5’s free)
New Year’s Eve Dinner & Dance Tuesday 31st December, 2013 7.00pm to late A spectacular evening to welcome in the New Year. 5-course meal. Piper, singer and band and fireworks finalé at midnight. £129 per person
New Year’s Day Jazz Lunch Wednesday 1st January, 2014 12.30 to 3.00pm A three course lunch with music from the Gipping Valley Trio Jazz Band. £39.50 per person, £25 child 5-12yrs (under 4s free)
Call Tracy or Julie on 01473 652334 email christmas@hintleshamhall.com web www.hintleshamhall.com
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Christmas Health: Looking after yourself Christmas and good health may not seem to go together particularly well, so you need to pay extra attention, if you want to stay illness-free this December. Here are five tips for staying healthy this Christmas.
1. Reduce stress Stress is one of the biggest health worries at this time of the year as you try to juggle your finances and plan a feast for your family. Try to plan your budget and work out what you can afford. If it's a bit tight, don't feel pressured to overspend on anything and tell your friends and family that you're cutting back this year. They'll understand, they may even feel relieved!
2. Down a smoothie This is the time of the year, when many of us feel stretched pretty thin. When you're too busy or frazzled from the night before to eat properly, or even need a quick pickme-up, then a smoothie is the quickest and healthiest way to get goodness inside you. Smoothies that contain lots of fresh fruit or vegetables can help lower blood
pressure and reduce strokes, and they also contain Vitamin E, which fights heart disease and bad cholesterol. A 250ml glass will give you the same amount of immune-boosting antioxidants as are in five portions of fruit and veg!
3. Get some exercise We know winter is dark and gloomy, but getting even the smallest amount of exercise will make you feel so much better. It's a brilliant way of relieving stress and boosting your energy, which means you will be mentally and physically prepared for when the relatives arrive! A brisk walk is the easiest way, but, if you prefer indoor exercise, why not spend 30 minutes swimming up and down your local pool - it works your whole body and is very low-impact, meaning it's less likely to put strain on your joints. Of course, you may well be going to a Christmas party, which is actually a great place 35
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Christmas Health: Looking after yourself to get some exercise. When the DJ sticks on Abba's Dancing Queen, make an effort to dance - it's a surprisingly easy way to get some exercise (and all the time you're dancing, you're not drinking!) Oh, and as it's Christmas, remember, even shopping for Christmas gifts is exercise (as long as you're not sitting in front of a computer doing it!).
5. Get some sleep We know Christmas is all about having fun, eating and drinking, but research has shown that missing out on sleep could lead to a cold or other seasonal snuffle. Your body and brain recharge when you're under the covers and also fight off infections. Try drinking a warm,
4. Help your hangover Nobody enjoys a hangover. They're nature's way of telling you what a great time you've had, but they also tell you how many essential vitamins your body has lost. Surprisingly, even though it's the last thing many of us want to eat with a fuzzy head, a Christmas dinner is good to eat, because it's full of the vitamins needed to cure a hangover. Christmas turkey is a great source of vitamin B, which is vital for your nervous system and stopping you feeling queasy. Potatoes have more Vitamin C than a glass of orange juice, which is important, because it helps the liver to break down the alcohol. And green vegetables like broccoli and Brussels sprouts contain Vitamin E, which detoxes the body. If that sounds like too much hard work, gobble down a ripe banana. It contains a natural antacid to help your stomach, magnesium to ease your headache and sugar to top up your liver's natural sugar stores and lose that lightheaded feeling.
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milky drink before bed, and, if you've been up or out partying, make sure you give yourself time to wind down and switch off before jumping into bed.
Kate Corr
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The Westleton Crown welcomes new Head Chef The Westleton Crown is delighted to announce the arrival of their new Head Chef, Robert Mace, to further develop The Crown’s fabulous menus and food reputation. Robert previously worked as Head Chef at various prestigious properties along the Suffolk coast before moving to The Westleton Crown in August 2013. Robert has replaced Richard Bargewell who was Head Chef at The Westleton Crown for over nine years.
Winter Warming Wednesdays Every Wednesday from October 16th through to the end of March, for lunch or dinner, you can enjoy new delicious Winter Warming Wednesdays menu (excluding Christmas and New Year period). 2 courses £14.95 or 3 courses £18.95
Robert was born in Norfolk and moved to Suffolk to continue his career in his passion with food. His great knowledge and real love of the area and its local produce shows in Robert’s menus that are constantly changing with the seasons. Robert’s food can be described as rustic modern British. Robert has said: “I am delighted to be a part of a hotel and restaurant that share the same ethics as me; serving an honest plate of food that has been lovingly prepared using ingredients that we can get on our door step.”
The Westleton Crown, The Street, Westleton, Nr Southwold, Suffolk IP17 3AD 01728 648777 www.westletoncrown.co.uk
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Spruce up your spruce
LED Santa in Hot Air Balloon Tree Decoration £3.99 www.giftshop.bhf.org.uk
Glass Camel Bauble
£7
www.paperchase.co.uk
Felt Robin Tree Decoration
£7
www.houseoffraser.co.uk
Knitted Mrs Gingerbread Man £4 www.accessorize.co.uk
Reindeer Tree Decoration £5 www.marksandspencer.co.uk
Floral Christmas Tree Decorations £9 pack of three www.moonsoon.co.uk
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I do like to be beside the seaside
Every autumn the staff and residents of Highlands Care Home enjoy a trip to the Beach Hut run by Felixstowe Old People's Welfare Association at Felixstowe. On the 10th of September the mini bus was loaded up for the trip to the sea in spite of a poor weather forecast. Optimism amongst the group was rewarded with some warm spells of sunshine which allowed the keener members of the party to enjoy a paddle as well as looking for shells in the sand. The whole party enjoyed fish and chips before some party games and the return journey to Woodbridge This Charitable Society was
formed in 1980 by Charles Notcutt, William Jacob, John Moorby and John Chapman. They purchased the old Haywood family home, Highlands in Fitzgerald Road, Woodbridge. This was altered and extended, opening in May 1983, initially for 17 residents, but later enlarged to accommodate 24. Highlands retains its warm family atmosphere and provides care for the residents. The house is aptly named as it has a fine view from its attractive gardens over the River Deben. There are nine full time and 42 part time staff as well as nine volunteers and a cat called Purdy. There are currently
three residents who are centenarians. Highlands Care Home is a member of the Abbeyfield Society. For more information about Highlands Care Home visit www.highlands-care.org/ or call 01394 386204
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Is your home, winter ready? With everyone now thinking about Christmas, it’s easy to forget that winter is also on its way, however before the cold weather makes an appearance be sure to check that your home is prepared for Winter! Firstly, if it does snow, there's no law stopping you from clearing snow and ice on the pavement outside your home. If you clear snow and ice yourself, be careful; don’t make the pathways more dangerous by causing them to refreeze. Never use water to clear snow; it can refreeze and turn to black ice. Spreading salt or sand on the area you have cleared can stop black ice. You can use ordinary table or dishwasher salt.
frozen pipes and don’t know what to do. With just a few simple precautions most of these pipes could be protected from bursting. Keep pipes well maintained and make sure they are not cracked or damaged. Check that all pipe work, cisterns and tanks in unheated areas like lofts, roofs and under floor spaces, outbuildings and garages are well insulated. If they are not, make sure you install adequate pipe insulation with something like waterproof foam lagging. Check the stopcock tap works because if the worst happens and you suffer from burst water pipes during the winter you will need to turn it off quickly to prevent water flooding out and causing damage. Check your roof for loose tiles, these can easily become dislodged during high winds and storms. Apart from the damage caused by falling tiles, it can lead to damage to the fabric of the building. Make sure that gutters and drainpipes are clear of leaves and other debris. If it rains heavily and the gutters overflow this can lead to water getting into the masonry and can cause all manner of other problems. You should also check for bad paintwork and damaged seals on the windows, if there are gaps, water may be let in which could cause the window to swell, jam or rot.
Having not used the heating all summer, many people turn on the central heating for the first time in months and discover that it is not working. Plumbers and heating engineers can find themselves inundated as people panic because it’s getting colder outside. It’s always worth running your heating for an hour or two during the warmer months to check that it is all in good working order. And if it’s not you will have time to get it fixed before the real winter weather takes hold. Every winter, thousands of people suffer burst or
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People often go away for a few days, and leave their house empty, especially over the Christmas and New Year period. If you are away overnight, leave the heating on at a low level so that warm water is circulating round the pipes. To make sure that pipes and water tanks don’t freeze in your roof space open the loft door to allow the warmer air from the house to circulate.
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The House Stylist and Homes Transformed form a unique alliance to maximise sales of houses in East Anglia THE The House Stylist, an experienced After property styling consultancy based near Colchester, Essex and Homes Transformed, a property procurement and renovation company near Ipswich, South Suffolk have announced a unique alliance to acquire and prepare homes for sale. Homes Transformed renovates distressed or under-utilised properties into quality, affordable, residential accommodation across East Anglia. Owner Claire Bartley spotted an opportunity to maximise and speed up her clients’ property sales by using the services of an expert home stylist. Claire approached Christine Hamilton and her company, The House Stylist, a renowned specialist in this field, to collaborate on domestic projects across the region. Claire and Christine have already demonstrated effective sales as a result of their collaboration. Claire recently renovated a three bedroom Victorian Terrace in Philip Road, Ipswich which sold immediately before it hit the open market and Claire attributes this to the high quality of the renovation and the overall end product, which was enhanced by Christine’s styling skills.
Before
Claire purchased the property from a vendor who needed to sell the property quickly for the best possible price but desired an exit that didn't involve estate agents and viewers trekking through the house. The vendor also required the assurance that the sale wouldn't fall through. The final renovation of this house brought a distressed property back into use for the local population. Value was added by moving stairs, improving access to the third bedroom and a complete overhaul including new kitchen and bathroom and landscape of the garden. Watch out for this on TV in the near future. Claire explains why the alliance with Christine Hamilton works so well for clients “Homes Transformed Limited generally purchases distressed properties with the objective of refurbishing them and returning them for sale on the open market. Christine’s expertise obviously complements my skills and helps to increase the appeal of the end product. Christine’s flair for design and staging a property can greatly enhance its appeal to a buyer.”
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After
Christine commented: “I add the gloss to Claire’s renovation advising on colour choices, lighting, furniture placement and the finishing touches to make a home the most attractive prospect to buyers etc. In the current slow housing market it is vital that a property is presented as attractively as possible and to appeal to as many potential buyers as possible.” For further information contact: Christine Hamilton – The House Stylist tel: 07785 900 007 Claire Bartley – Homes Transformed tel: 07881 815 420
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Confit Duck Leg Braised Red Cabbage, Cinnamon Reduction
Head Chef Alan Ford of Hintlesham Hall Confit of duck leg does take quite a while to cook, but it really is worth the time spent as it produces a wonderful flavour and texture. Once you have mastered this recipe it is quite easy to adapt it to incorporate other flavours such as ginger and lemongrass or maybe orange and clove. I thought I would include a red cabbage recipe, the secret to this is the addition of red currant jelly, which not only helps with the colour and depth of flavour, but gives it a lovely coating too. I have used syrup instead of a sauce, which helps
when preparing at home, especially as you can make it ahead of time and keep it until needed. This method of cooking can be used for larger items such as shoulder of lamb/mutton or pork belly, obviously the timing will differ, but something like pork belly or shoulder of mutton can be cooked overnight, in fact, you actually get a better result if you are able to cook joints of that are larger for longer at a lower temperature, just turn the oven temperature down a few degrees to allow for the longer period of cooking.
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Confit Duck Leg, Braised Red Cabbage, Cinnamon Reduction 6 Portions Ingredients 6 Duck legs 2 Heads of garlic, cut in half 3 Shallots, cut in half 4 Star anise 1 Cinnamon stick 1/2 pint Vegetable oil 1/8 pint Water Hash Brown 1lb Roughly mashed potato 2 Onions-peeled and sliced Seasoning Braised Red Cabbage 1 Small red cabbage, cut into quarters and roughly chopped 1 Red onion, peeled and roughly sliced 1 Apple, grated 2 tbsp Redcurrant jelly 2 tbsp Malt Vinegar 4 tbsp Red Wine 1 tbsp Vegetable oil Cinnamon Infusion pint Red Wine 1 tbsp Glucose syrup 1 Cinnamon stick 4 oz Caster sugar 1/2
Place all ingredients for the cinnamon infusion in a pan and simmer until a light syrup has formed. Allow to cool and refrigerate.
Method 1. Place duck legs, garlic, shallots, bay leaves, star anise, cinnamon, vegetable oil and water in a roasting tray. 2. Cover with tin foil and braise in a slow oven 120ºC, 260ºF, gas mark 3 for approximately two hours or until the meat has become very tender. 3. Remove from oven, allow to cool for half an hour, then remove legs from the cooking liquor. Refrigerate. 4. For the cabbage, heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil in a thick-bottomed pan, sweat onions, add cabbage and grated apple and cook with a lid on for two minutes. Add the redcurrant jelly, vinegar and red wine, place lid on and cook until soft, remembering to stir occasionally. Remove lid, turn heat up and cook until liquid has been absorbed by the cabbage. Season, allow to cool and refrigerate. Everything up until this stage should be prepared a day in advance. On the Day 1. Place duck legs, skin-side up on a baking tray, add two tbsp of water and place in a moderate oven (allow 20 minutes to heat through). 2. Pan fry the onions in vegetable oil until light brown, remove from pan. Heat some more vegetable oil, add the rough mash and cook, turning regularly until it colours, a few darker bits wouldn’t harm! Season. 3. Place cabbage in saucepan and warm over a low heat, remember to stir quite often to prevent sticking and burning (or pop it in the microwave for two minutes!). 4. After 15 minutes, check duck. If skin isn’t crispy, turn heat up for the last five minutes. To serve, place potato at top of plate just off centre. Place cabbage next to it, sit duck on top of cabbage and drizzle reduction around.
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Sustainable living Running our homes on ‘greener’ more sustainable principles can save money in the long term and make a huge contribution to reducing CO2. Turning lights off and not leaving appliances on standby makes a difference, but how much more can we help the environment if we consider the bigger picture. Areas we should focus on: 1. Insulation: This is key when making a home ‘greener’ and consideration should be given to ensuring the levels of insulation we currently have are sufficient, as well investigating other areas that would benefit from being insulated. 2. Can we heat our home without turning the heating on? Woodburning Stoves are a form of renewable heating - wood is a carbon-neutral fuel source. Their revival is primarily due to the fact they are an efficient and economic means of getting heat into your home, especially in the spring and autumn when the heating is off, whist being very attractive focal points. 3. Can we heat our home in a more sustainable way? With rising fuel bills and a greater environmental awareness, renewable technologies are more popular than ever. Biomass boilers use pellets from compressed sawdust, wood chips or logs, whilst Heat Pumps use heat from the ground or air and Solar Thermal utilises the sun – all providing hot water for your home. Besides the CO2 savings, running costs are slightly cheaper compared to gasfired boilers, but compared to oil boilers, Biomass Boilers are at least 40% cheaper and Heat Pumps 50% cheaper to run. 4. What about electricity? Solar PV systems can be installed on roofs or ground-mounted in garden or fields. Sunlight is converted into electricity and provides free electricity to use during daylight hours. By running household appliances during the day, you are using clean electricity straight from your Solar PV system and
thus making a significant CO2 saving, not to mention the savings on your fuel bills. Whatever choices we make to become more environmentally friendly, alongside reducing our CO2 emissions, saving money is likely to be the long-term outcome. This can be achieved by both reducing our energy bills and claiming the government incentives on offer. Contact us now for further details on: • Generating an extra income • Controlling your energy bills • Arranging a free, no-obligation survey All technologies are either working or on display in our showroom
For help, information and a quality range of renewable energy products contact East Green Energy, 26 Quayside. Woodbridge IP12 1BH Telephone 01394 380557. Open every day but Sunday. www.eastgreenenergy.co.uk www.energysavingtrust.co.uk 53
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Autumn Bulbs Plan it, Plant it – Popular bulbs to plant this Autumn With Autumn being nature’s natural time to plant, now is the ideal time to start planning your spring garden. Here is some information together on the most popular bulbs to get your spring garden started.
carpet of crocus on a sunny February or March day, flowers fully open, showing their inner beauty. They are excellent for naturalising in grass or in a border.
Hyacinths
The range alone makes them a favourite. If you are careful with your selection, you can have narcissi in flower for up to five months of the year from January through to the beginning of May! They come in all different heights and colours, singleheaded, multi-headed and fragrant.
Narcissus Hyacinths are a favourite because of their scent. They are pillars of delicious fragrance in many different colours. Try planting them near an entrance door or along a footpath so you can enjoy their perfume.
Alliums These are the stately globes of the bulb world. Large heads or small, they are all magnets for pollinating insects. Try planting purple and white together, or for something a bit different, try Nectaroscordum Siculum which is loved by bumble bees.
Tulips The elegant ‘ladies’ of the bulb world, there is a tulip for every situation. Short or tall, single-headed, multi-headed and fragrant, pastel, primary and bold colours are all available.
Other bulbs which are good for wildlife, particularly insects, are Eranthis Cilicica (Winter Aconites), all crocus and snowdrops. These bulbs are particularly important as they flower early in the year when not much else is in bloom. On a sunny February day, you may see bumble bees searching for nectar. By planting a few of these bulbs, you can make a big difference to your local insect population. For more information on Plan it, Plant it this Autumn, please visit www.the-hta.org.uk/autumn
Snowdrops Snowdrops signal the end of dark winter days, flowering in January and February when not much else is in bloom. They are an important source of nectar for early emerging insects, particularly bees. They come in various heights and sizes.
Crocus Again, early flowering and available in many different colours, they are a great source of nectar for insects. Nothing looks better than a
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Essential guide & listings Key to listings Theatre Cinema Arts Music & Dance Outdoor Markets Other Quiz Night 6th November Quiz Night, Seckford Golf Club, Seckford Hall Road, Woodbridge, £15 per person, Includes hot meal, Reservations necessary 01473 231004, in aid of the British Heart Foundation
Concert
Vintage and Craft Market
16th November The Bury Bach Choir is celebrating the birth of Suffolk’s own composer, Benjamin Britten, with a centenary concert of his music at St Edmundsbury Cathedral, 7.30pm, Tickets are available now from the Apex Box Office on 01284 758000 or via www.burybachchoir.co.uk. The conductor is Philip Reed, an authority on Britten’s life and works. Also on the programme will be Britten’s Simple Symphony, his Te Deum in C Major and the beautiful Hymn to the Virgin. This wide and varied selection of Britten’s works will give the audience a wonderful evening’s entertainment.
17th November St Peter’s Street, St Peter’s Street, Ipswich
Giant Craft & Gift Fayre 17th November Over 60 stalls selling locally made crafts & quality gifts, Free parking. Refreshments available, £1 entry in aid of FIND – Ipswich Families in Need, Cameo Hotel Copdock Ipswich, 10am – 4pm,
Craft Fair 9th November Over 20 craft stalls and demonstrations of weaving, spinning, willow and glass craft will be on show for visitors who can also enjoy light refreshments all day. This is a free entry event but donations are encouraged. Hemingstone Church and Hut, Hemingstone, 10.30am – 4pm,
Remembrance Day Parade 10th November The Barrack Square (at the Memorials), Martlesham Heath, 3pm, everyone is welcome. Parking available nearby, for more information call: H King 01473 274300
Ipswich RSPB Group Indoor Meeting 14th November ‘Asia's Teardrop - Birding in Sri Lanka’, an illustrated talk by David Cromack, Editor of Bird Art & Photography Magazine. Sidegate Lane School, 7.30pm, Admission: Local Group members £2.00 (concessions apply), Non-Members £3.00, includes refreshments. All welcome. For more information contact 01473 423213.
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Essential guide & listings Concert
Walk
Meeting
17th November Ipswich Choral Society presents Britten Centenary Celebration Ipswich School, The Great School Ivry Street, Ipswich, Tickets Adults £12, £10 Concessions, £4 Children available from Ipswich Choral Society members, ICS Ticket Line 01473 738324 or Music World Queen Street, www.ipswichchoralsociety.org
19th November Ipswich RSPB Local Group Midweek Walk round Bourne Park area and park. Meet at 10am at Bourne Park car park (Bourne Bridge entrance). 2 hrs. Map ref TM161419. Contact 01473 714839, All welcome,
4th December Orwell Decorative Fine Arts SocietyWe Three Kings: Music Arts, Legends and poetry inspired my Magi, Rushmere St Andrew, Tower Hall, 2.15pm, £5 Donation Welcome, 01473 710921
Jazz 17th November The Horn Factory - A swinging polished ensemble performance will be delivered. £10, The California Club, 195 Foxhall Road, Ipswich, 8pm – 10.30pm, No membership necessary, Car parking available, Students half price
Open Weekend 22nd & 23rd November Orwell Astronomical Society Public Open Weekend, Orwell Park Observatory, Orwell Park School, Nacton, 7.30pm – 10pm, Entrance Adults £3, Child and Concessionary £1.50
Concert 30th November Woodbridge Choral Society present Gioachino Rossini’s Petite Messe Solennelle, St Mary’s Church, Woodbridge, 7.30pm. Tickets £10 or £6.50 students from Woodbridge Books, or from 01394 386764.
Fore Street Festive Market 8th December Christmas Merchandise, Food, Toys, Clothing, Handmade Jewellery, Crafts, Vintage and more, plus Entertainment throughout day, 10am – 4pm, More information jay@waterfrontaction.co.uk
Suffolk Industrial Archaeology Society Meeting 11th December 2013 Geoffrey Kay 'The Sad Story of Airship R101', Ipswich Transport Museum, Cobham Road, Ipswich, commencing 1930, Further information 01473 405116
Farmers Markets Aldeburgh Farmers Market
Halesworth Produce Market
Aldeburgh Church Hall, 3rd Saturday of the month. From 9.0012.30pm
2nd Saturday monthly. Contact: 01223 457524
Assington Farmers Market Held on the 2nd Sunday of every month from 10-2pm at The Barn, Assington, CO10 5LW
Felixstowe Market Every Sunday, Adjacent to Arwela Road, off Sea Road, 8am to 4pm. Clothes, household items, plants, books.
Framlingham Market Every Saturday in The Square
Jimmy’s Farm Farmers Market Pannington Hall, Wherstead. 9am1pm (1st Saturday of every month)
Snape Maltings Farmers Market 1st Saturday of each month from 9.30 am to 1pm, with free car parking, shops, galleries and river walks. On Saturday 7th April (Easter Saturday) is a special market with an Easter Egg Hunt for children and over 30 producers.
Southwold Farmers Market Adnams Cellar and Kitchen Store. Every Friday 9am-12.30pm
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Woodbridge Farmers Market Woodbridge Community Hall. 2nd and 4th Saturday of the month, 9am-1pm
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Essential guide & listings The Pantaloons: Grimm Fairy Tales
Christmas Events at Snape Maltings
14th December Festive family fun as The Brothers Grimm spin tales of wicked witches, talking animals, plucky maidens and dashing adventurers in this deliciously dark and thrillingly inventive show for adults and children alike. Music, magic, and some of the best-loved stories ever to have graced the stage, St Peter's by the Waterfront, Ipswich, £7 for children & £12 for adults available via http://www.stpetersbythewaterfront. com/whats-on/grimm-fairy-talesthe-pantaloons/
30th November The Decorated Cake Co. Workshop
Jazz 15th December Josh Kemp Quartet - “A player to watch...a musician of great individuality” Alan Barnes, £12, The California Club, 195 Foxhall Road, Ipswich, 8pm – 10.30pm, No membership necessary, Car parking available, Students half price
7th December
Farmers Market
15th December Father Christmas sails into Snape Maltings by Barge. A wonderful Suffolk Tradition 21st December Special Christmas Farmers Market
Ipswich Transport Society Meeting 19th December 'Ipswich Rail' - a presentation by former Railway fitter Tony Carter,
Coop Education Centre, 11 Fore Street, Ipswich, 2.15pm, £2.00 admission. Further information 01473 405116
November Fri 1st 7.45pm Barnsley Sat 9th 3pm Blackpool A Sat 23rd Leicester 3pm Sat 30th Charlton 3pm A
December Tue 3rd 7.45pm Blackburn Sat 7th 3pm Huddersfield Sat 14th 3pm Notts Forest A Sat 21st 3pm Watford Thu 26th 3pm Doncaster A Sun 29 3pm Bournemouth A
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big screen
We take a look at The Good, The Bad and The Ugly! of the new releases at the cinema. Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom A chronicle of Nelson Mandela's life journey from his childhood in a rural village through to his inauguration as the first democratically elected president of South Africa. The film is based on the 1994 autobiography by Nelson Mandela and chronicles his early life, coming of age, education and 27 years in prison before becoming President and working to rebuild the country’s once segregated society.
Frozen Frozen centers on Anna, who sets off on a journey, teaming up with rugged mountain man Kristoff and his loyal reindeer Sven, to find her sister Elsa, whose icy powers have trapped the kingdom of Arendelle in eternal winter. Encountering Everest-like conditions, mystical trolls and a hilarious snowman named Olaf, Anna and Kristoff battle the elements in a race to save the kingdom.
Gravity Sandra Bullock and George Clooney play nervous newbie astronuat Dr Ryan Stone and seasoned pro Matt Kowalsky, whose work on the Hubble Space Telescope is violently interrupted by a catastrophic debris collision. Cut off from ground communications and drifting in space, their only hope lies in making it to the International Space Station before Stone’s air supply runs out.
Walking with Dinosaurs After the worldwide success of the BBC TV series, ‘Walking With Dinosaurs’ gets its own feature-length spin-off. Nature documentary types Neil Nightingale and Pierre De Lespinios handle directing duties in the $65-million live action-CG mix that’s shooting in Alaska. Plot details are currently sketchy but with the 3D element this could be one to rival ‘Jurassic Park’ for groundbreaking dino-FX.
Sneak Peek: Some of the others coming in 2014 CUBAN FURY — January
THE INVISIBLE WOMAN — March
GRACE OF MONACO — January (put back from December)
NOAH — March
POMPEII — February
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MUPPETS MOST WANTED — March
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What we are reading… David Jason – My Life —
David Jason
Born the son of a Billingsgate market porter at the height of the Second World War, David Jason spent his early life dodging bombs and bullies, both with impish good timing. Giving up on an unloved career as an electrician, he turned his attention to acting and soon, through a natural talent for making people laugh, found himself working with the leading lights of British comedy in the 1960s and '70s: Eric Idle, Michael Palin, Bob Monkhouse and Ronnie Barker. Barker would become a mentor to David, leading to hugely successful stints in Porridge and Open All Hours. David's is a touching, funny and warm-hearted story, which charts the course of his incredible five decades at the top of the entertainment business. He's been a shopkeeper and a detective inspector, a crime-fighter and a market trader, and he ain't finished yet. As Del Boy would say, it's all cushty.
Proper Pub Food — Tom Kerridge The king of beautiful pub food has collected all of his best ideas into this proper cookbook, ready to warm the world on a grey day and restore the nation's good mood. Tom Kerridge's idea of food heaven isn't fussy gastronomy; it's proper 'man food' with Michelin star magic, including breakfasts that keep you smiling for the whole day, indulgent long lunches, teatime temptations, seasonal snacks and heart-warming suppers. In this cookbook Tom proves that everyone can make proper pub food, and the only place he wants to see a foam is on the head of a pint of beer! Over 100 recipes reveal his secrets for making real food truly amazing, including perfected dishes from his childhood and special treats he serves at his own one-of-a-kind pub. These recipes are simply the best version you'll ever have of the dishes everyone loves the most.
The Husband’s Secret —
Liane Moriarty
Mother of three and wife of John-Paul, Cecilia discovers an old envelope in the attic. Written in her husband's hand, it says: to be opened only in the event of my death. Curious, she opens it - and time stops. John-Paul's letter confesses to a terrible mistake which, if revealed, would wreck their family as well as the lives of others. Cecilia betrayed, angry and distraught - wants to do the right thing, but right for who? If she protects her family by staying silent, the truth will worm through her heart. But if she reveals her husband's secret, she will hurt those she loves most . . .
The Slightly Annoying Elephant —
David Walliams
Number one bestselling author David Walliams presents his first picture book, illustrated by artistic genius Tony Ross. What’s big, blue, bossy, and turns up uninvited? A slightly annoying elephant, of course! Introducing a magnificently warm and funny picture book. Since 2008 David Walliams has taken the children’s literary world by storm. His most recent book Ratburger, immediately went to no.1 in the children’s chart. David is the fastest growing Children’s author in the UK. His books have been translated into 30+ languages and sold over two million copies in the UK alone.
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EATING OUT … Our Top Rated Eateries in and around Ipswich
Mediterranean Restaurants Türquoise
Aqua Eight 8 Lion Street 218989 Berridges 4 Dial Lane 225525 Bistro on the Quay 3 Wherry Quay 286677 The Brasserie 16 Falcon Street 230185 Buttermans Woolverstone 780803 Church’s Hatton Court 219138 Dhaka Restaurant 6 Orwell Place 251397 The Fountain Tuddenham St Martin 785377 Hintlesham Hall Hintlesham 652334 Mariners Neptune Quay 289748 K Bar and Grill 33/7St Nicholas St 215721 The Last Anchor Haven Marina 214763 The Manor Restaurant Belstead 684241 Milsoms at Kesgrave Hall Kesgrave 333741 Quayside 12 Regatta Quay 218811 Salthouse Harbour Salthouse Quay 226789 Seckford Hall Woodbridge 01394 385678 The Townhouse 4A Orwell Place 230254 The Valley Fynn Valley Golf Club 785202 Ufford Park Hotel Melton 01394 383555
Wine Bars and Bistros Arlingtons Bowmans Church’s Curve Bar Degero Isaacs K Bar and Grill Poets Bistro Quayside The Waterfront Arthur Ransome Zing
13 Museum St Falcon Street Hatton Court 58 Princes Street 11 St Nicholas St 7 Wherry Quay 33/7 St Nicholas St 1 Arcade St 12 Regatta Quay 15 Regatta Quay Tower Street 10 Tacket St
230293 218118 219138 212008 213010 259952 215721 225995 218811 226082 341920 280000
Fusion Restaurants Mizu Noodle Bar
10 Cornhill
288839
18 Tacket Street Neptune Marina Foundry Lane 3 St Peters St St Nicholas Centre 19 Buttermarket
288222 210620 295230 251438 298508 212392
Leading Cafés Caffé Basso Coffeelink Danceeats! Café Saints Café Bar The Sanctuary Patisserie Valerie
62
25 St Nicholas St
281131
Mexican Restaurants Chimichanga
Cardinal Park
254112
Indian Restaurants A Passage to India Gandhi Indian Palace Karalam Maharani Masha Orissa Sonar Bagla Balti Taj Mahal Zaika
27-29 Fore St 8 St Peter’s St 39 Upper Orwell St 24 St Helens St 46 Norwich Rd 200 St Helens St 10-12 St Nicholas St 37 Woodbridge Rd 40-42 Norwich Rd 17 St Nicholas St
281110 286058 212414 288599 232266 255236 232439 210763 210722 210110
Chinese Restaurants East Ocean Golden Dragon Mister Wing New Century Trongs
25 Fore St Cardinal Park 7 St Helen’s St 71 St Matthews St 23 St Nicholas St
255545 232888 212885 233388 256833
Thai Restaurants Baipo Thai Kwan Thai
63 Upper Orwell St 14 St Nicholas St
218402 253106
Brazilian Restaurants Rios Brazil
28 Gt Coleman St
222335
Turkish Restaurants Alaturka
9 Gt Coleman St
233448
National Chains Ask Frankie & Benny’s Loch Fyne Nandos Pizza Express Pizza Express Zizzi
Cardinal Park Cardinal Park 1 Duke St Cardinal Park 24-26 Lloyds Ave 13 Regatta Quay 11/13 St Nicholas St
210443 231732 269810 211668 212651 288600 230055
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Ipswich Public Houses The Arboretum The Black Tiles The Brewery Tap The Dove The Fat Cat Gardeners Arms The Greyhound Mambos The Spread Eagle The Woolpack
43 High Street Martlesham 1 Cliff Road St Helens St 288 Spring Rd 77 Fore Hamlet 9 Henley Road 4-6 Queens St 1-3 Fore Street 1 Tuddenham Rd
222177 624038 225501 211270 726524 231177 252862 219228 256093 253059
Woodbridge Eateries (01394) The Anchor The Angel Crown Hotel East Coast Diner The Galley Grove House Hotel The King’s Head Notcutts Gdn C’tre Old Belle & St’yard Riverside Savola at The Bull Hotel Seckford Hall Hotel Wild St’berry Café W’bridge Fine Food Ufford Park Hotel The Plough The Duke of York The Table The Castle
Quay Street Theatre Street Thoroughfare 2 Church Street Market Hill Grove Road Market Hill Ipswich Rd 103 New Street Quayside Market Hill Woodbridge 19a Market Hill New St Melton Sutton Woodbridge Quay St Bredfield
382649 383808 384242 389076 380055 382202 387750 445400 382933 382587 382089 385678 388881 610000 383555 411785 386347 382428 385927
The Parade Thorpeness High Street 77 High Street 171 High Street Wentworth Rd Market Cross Place
452071 454994 452250 453377 452011 452312 452720
Bromeswell (01394) The British Larder
Orford Road
Dunwich
123 Undercliff Road 128 Hamilton Road Hamilton Road
621232 723521
Orford (01394) Butley Oysterage Market Hill 450277 Crown and Castle Orford 450205 The Froize Inn The Street, Chillesford 450282 The Jolly Sailor Quay St 450243 The Kings Head Front St 450271 Lady Florence River Cruises 07831 698298
Saxmundham (01728) The Bell Hotel
High Street
602331
The Boathouse milsoms Le Talbooth Bildeston Crown The Sun Inn
Mill Lane, Dedham 323153 Stratford Rd, Dedham 322795 Gun Hill 323150 High Street 01449 740510 High Street, Dedham 323531
Snape (01728) Plough & Sail The Crown
Snape Maltings Snape
688413 688324
Harbour Inn The Lord Nelson The Sole Bay Inn
Backshore East Street East Green
722381 722079 723736
648219
Thorpeness (01728)
Felixstowe (01394) The Alex Cafe Bencotto Orwell Hotel
3 Church Street Market Hill
Southwold Pubs (01502) 460310
Dunwich (01728) The Ship Inn
The Lemon Tree The Crown
Stour Valley Area (01206)
Eateries Further Afield! Aldeburgh (01728) The Brudenell Hotel The Dolphin Fish & Chip Shop The Lighthouse Regatta Restaurant The Wentworth The White Lion
Framlingham (01728)
Hotel & Golf Club 282958 276745 285511
Lakeside Ave
452176
Walberswick (01502) The Bell Inn
Ferry Rad
723109
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