Cambridge Edition August

Cambridge AUGUST 2015

Your monthly fix of local life www.cambsedition.co.uk

INSIDE THIS ISSUE...

ARTS

MAGAZINE

CULTURE

NIGHTLIFE

GIG GUIDE Cambridge

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r © Louisa Taylo

CONTENTS

Welcome

July was a great month for Cambridge. The Big Weekend was blessed with glorious sunshine (making Slade deciding to sing Merry Christmas Everybody all the more surreal), the Secret Garden Party went wild in the Cambridgeshire countryside, Open Studios inspired and the rather lovely Mill Road Midsummer Night Market also made its debut, drawing a huge crowd and serving up some fantastic food and live music (here’s to next year!). Don’t worry though, there’s plenty to get stuck into in August too. Pack a picnic and plonk and catch an outdoor film screening on Grantchester Meadows or be dazzled by a bohemian take on a Shakespeare classic on the banks of the River Cam (more on both on page 18). After the fun had at last year’s event, I also reckon Cambridge Junction’s music and arts festival Junkyard will be worth checking out – the team made brilliantly creative use of the venue’s indoor and outdoor spaces last time around, so I can’t wait to see what they do with 2015’s ‘house party’ theme!

Food-wise, we’ve compiled a definitive list of the best burgers in the city, and the Edition team also embarked on an unplanned but delicious quest to discover the best mac ’n’ cheese in town (tweet us @cambsedition with your recommendations on where to try next!). There’s news on new openings, recipes and more to enjoy too – I hope you enjoy the issue!

NICOLA FOLEY, EDITOR

This month…

5 • FIVE THINGS TO DO Our pick of the best things to do locally this month 7-10 • NIGHTLIFE The best of Cambridge after hours 12-13 • CAMBRIDGE SOUND Edition interviews the radio friendly Mallory Knox ahead of their Cambridge gig next month 15 • MUSIC BLOG The best live gigs to see this month 17-24 • ARTS & CULTURE An outdoor entertainment special!

28-29• SUMMER AT THE MUSEUMS Cambridge’s museums come alive this month 31-45 • FOOD NEWS New foodie openings, plus the best burgers in the city 47 • RESTAURANT REVIEW Nicola Foley stops off for lunch at Bene’t Street ‘meaterie’ Bread & Meat

78-79 • 30 DAYS WILD When was the last time you stopped to smell the roses?

Ruthie Collins shares the secrets of her wild month 81 • COMMUNITY NEWS What’s been happening in your neighbourhood of late 84-85 • INDIE OF THE MONTH Style, quality and personality at clothing shop Petrus 87-90• FASHION Jet-set fashion to kick-start your holidays, plus our favourite style picks from local independent boutiques 92-94 • BEAUTY We test weird and wonderful beauty solutions 97 • WELLNESS Your latest spa news and beauty offers 101 • EDUCATION Stuart Nicholson of CCSS on the new style A levels 103 • BUSINESS NEWS Networking events and opportunities around the city

48-49 • FOOD COLUMN Chef Alex is going global – without leaving his kitchen 51 • COMPETITION Win a VIP experience at the Gogs Giant Sundowner 52-55 • RECIPE Stella Pereira shares more of her delectable recipes

EDITORIAL Editor Nicola Foley 01223 499459 nicolafoley@bright-publishing.com Features editor Jenny Shelton 01223 499463 jennifershelton@bright-publishing.com Sub editors Lisa Clatworthy & Catherine Brodie

ADVERTISING Senior sales executive Natalie Robinson 01223 499451 natalierobinson@bright-publishing.com Key accounts Maria Francis 01223 499461 mariafrancis@bright-publishing.com

CONTRIBUTORS

Alex Rushmer, Angelina Villa-Clarke, Charlotte Griffiths, Daisy Dickinson, Jordan Worland, Ruthie Collins, Stella Pereira, Wesley Freeman-Smith

DESIGN & PRODUCTION Designer Emily Stowe 01223 499450 emilystowe@bright-publishing.com Ad production Lucy Woolcomb 01223 499468 lucywoolcomb@bright-publishing.com

MANAGING DIRECTORS Andy Brogden & Matt Pluck 01223 499450

59 • FAMILY News and events to keep the brood happy this summer

LIKE US ON FACEBOOK: www.facebook.com/CambsEdition

60-61 • LISTINGS What’s on this month, at a glance

FOLLOW US ON TWITTER: @cambsedition

65-68 • GREAT DAYS OUT Planning a day trip? We’ve got some ideas…

www.bright-publishing.com

71-76 • TALES FROM THE RIVERBANK We meet Cambridge’s narrowboat community

CAMBRIDGE EDITION MAGAZINE • Bright Publishing Ltd, Bright House, 82 High Street, Sawston, Cambridgeshire CB22 3HJ, 01223 499450, www.cambsedition.co.uk • All rights reserved. Material contained in this publication may not be reproduced, in whole or in part, without prior permission of the publishers. • Views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of Cambridge Edition or Bright Publishing Ltd, which do not accept any liability for loss or damage. • Every effort has been made to ensure all information is correct. • Cambridge Edition is a free publication that is distributed in Cambridge and the surrounding area

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5 THINGS TO DO

this month...

2. Awesome August

1. Design the cover of Cambridge Edition!

In conjunction with Cambridge Art Fair, we’re launching a competition to find our next cover artist. We’re looking for someone who can capture what Cambridge means to them, whether that’s a favourite place or landmark, the ‘feel’ of the city or a culmination of lots of different ideas. The only limitation is the size of your canvas: we can only accept submissions scaled to 145mmx303mm (our cover dimensions). The deadline for entries is 15 September, find out more at www.cambsedition.co.uk

3. Jazz and Brass in the Parks

Lazing around on Jesus Green has always been an excellent way to pass a summer’s afternoon, and on 23 August sunbathers, dog walkers, frisbee throwers and everyone else will have the added pleasure of being accompanied

by Savoy Jazz. They’ll be performing from 3-5pm, and it’s free to watch.

4. Summer at the Museums Spend this summer exploring Cambridge’s many museums, which will have even more to see and do as part of Summer at the Museums.

Running until September, there’ll be clay crafting, clue solving, time travelling and pirate treasure hunting galore – read the full feature on pages 28-29.

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Do your shopping at The Grafton on a Wednesday this month and you’ll likely come across reading parties, bouncy castles, mini golf and all sorts as part of Awesome August. It kicks off on 5 August with a two-day record-breaking attempt to create the largest butterfly made from small origami butterflies.

Lance Stanbury, The Grafton centre manager, says: “It can be challenging to keep children entertained throughout the summer so we wanted to offer a fun shopping experience for the whole family.

Children really enjoyed The Grafton’s Awesome Wednesdays activities earlier this year and I’m confident they will love Awesome August just as much!” www.graftoncentre.co.uk

5. Visit outer space Cambridge Science Centre’s latest exhibition, COSMIC, launched with some spectacle last month when a rocket-powered punt, fuelled by Fitzbillies buns, took to the River Cam (read the full, fantastical story online).

This month, visit the exhibition on Jesus Lane and learn all about life, the universe and everything. Find out how gravity works, hold a meteorite in your hand and see a real-life rocket up close. www.cambridgesciencecentre.org

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NIGHTLIFE

CHECK OUT LOCAL EVENTS ONLINE cambsedition.co.uk

JUNKYARD FESTIVAL HOUSE PARTY After a storming success last year, we’re happy to see that Cambridge Junction’s brilliant Junkyard Festival is returning for a second outing this month. This year’s edition, House Party, will bring back the winning formula of last year’s event, combining great entertainment and music with awesome street food, and utilising the Junction’s various indoor and outdoor spaces.

The event is created by Cambridge Junction’s apprentices, a small group of young people who work in different departments at the venue whilst completing their college studies (the Junction is currently recruiting their next intake for these paid positions, check their website for more details).

Taking place on Saturday 22 August, this cross-arts festival will feature live bands, DJs, spoken word poets and visual artists from across the east of England. There will be food on offer from local favourites Steak & Honour, along with Churros Bar if you fancy something sweet.

We’re loving the house party theme, which will see J2 transformed into the Living Room: a cosy place to enjoy some great acts from the comfort of an armchair (yes, actually). On the bill are Horse Party, Lunacre, Goldstar and local hip hop outfit The Dressing Gown Mob. Outside in The Yard, you can check out intimate sets by some of Cambridge’s best singer/songwriter talent including Robbie Stevens, Oscar

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Corney and Rachel Clark – as well as getting silly with some lawn games.

As with any good house party, the Kitchen will be the hub of the action, showcasing sounds from a host of local DJs, while The Study will be offering up sets by the cream of the spoken word scene.

Be beguiled by the witty wordplay of the likes of Hammer & Tongue champion Riaz Moola, plus Charley Genever, Miss Mercal and alternative spoken word artist Luke Peter Foster. There will also be an open mic session if you fancy showing off your own lyrical prowess.

The event runs on Saturday 22 August from 4pm to midnight. Tickets are £8. www.junction.co.uk

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NIGHTLIFE

THE DAY RELEASE SUPER DISCO If, like us, you enjoy a good night out, you’ll probably agree that Cambridge is in dire need of more clubbing events, so we’ve been keeping a close eye on Day Release at Cambridge Junction. Hosted by a group of friends who used to DJ at the venue back in the day, this boutique event grew out of a small private event and has flourished into a semi-regular fixture on the venue’s calendar. Geared towards a slightly older but very much still up for it crowd, this month’s date for your diary is 22 August, when Ashley Beedle will be manning the decks. Something of a legend in UK dance culture, this DJ and producer is known for his genre spanning sets.

Expect every musical style under the sun, from hip hop to symphonic soul and 70s rock (sounds like a great night to us!). He’ll be joined by Dean Butler and George Aretakis, while Chris Brown, Adrian Cox and Jo Sennitt head up Room 2.

The event runs 9pm-3am and tickets are £11 adv. www.junction.co.uk

STEAMPUNK IN CAMBRIDGE For the third year running, Steampunk in Cambridge is coming to town for a day of retrofuture fun, and plenty of tea and cake. If you’re not familiar with this madcap genre, think along the lines of Victorian sci-fi writers like HG Wells and Jules Verne (with a bit of Dr Who thrown in) and you’ll be on the right track. Dressing up is wholeheartedly encouraged, and you can expect Victorian corsets and bustles from the ladies, and men in vintage formal attire, sporting the odd pith helmet and outlandish looking gadget.

Taking place on the first of the month at the very apt venue of the Cambridge Museum of Technology, there’s a fun packed schedule planned, including a bout of ‘tea duelling’, hat racing (the mind boggles) and a live action Cluedo-style game. There will also be a performance by Mr Robert Lloyd Parry, who’ll be reading an MR James story, plus a range of intriguing stalls to peruse – as well as the Museum’s own array of curiosities which includes a Victorian printing press and steam powered pumping rooms.

Tickets for the event are £5. Search Steampunk in Cambridge III for more info.

WARNING If you like your beats dirty and bass heavy, Warning is the night for you. One of the world’s longest running club nights, Warning (at Cambridge Junction) regularly serves up some of the best DJs on the drum and bass, jungle and bass music circuit, and this month’s event is no exception. On Saturday 8 August, catch TC, Mampi Swift, Crissy Criss and Randal plus loads more, keeping the crowd partying right the way through til 6am. Tickets from £15. www.junction.co.uk

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NIGHTLIFE

ROGER MOORE Corn Exchange, 19 Oct, £25 Expect inside scoops and anecdotes from the James Bond star as he chats with biographer Gareth Owen about his extraordinary life and career. Having been in show business some 70 years, you’re guaranteed some great stories, and there’ll even be a chance to put your own questions to Mr Moore at the end. www.cambridgelivetrust.co.uk

HOT 8 BRASS BAND 27 Oct, Cambridge Junction, £18 adv Famed for their cover of Marvin Gaye’s Sexual Healing, Hot 8 Brass Band fuse hip hop, jazz and funk styles with traditional New Orleans brass sounds – and always put on a fantastic show. Definitely one to catch if you were looking forward to last year’s cancelled gig at the Portland Arms. www.junction.co.uk

WE’RE ALL IN THE MOOD FOR A MELODY… Good news for fans of Cambridge’s only Piano Bar – the hidden loft-style cocktail bar is now open both Fridays and Saturdays.

Italian restaurant De Luca Cucina & Bar on Regent Street introduced the Piano Bar concept to Cambridge on Fridays in October 2014, and thanks to its great success they’ve extended this to Saturdays too.

Situated right at the top of the building, all exposed brickwork, sloping ceilings and squashy sofas, it’s one of Cambridge’s best hidden drinking spots with great cocktails and a relaxed, New York loft-style ambience, enhanced by the prints of Hollywood’s finest on the walls. It has its own bar (try the Rat Pack Manhattan cocktail) and with everyone joining in for a sing-song at the end of the night it feels like your own private party.

Their resident pianist is the charismatic Robin Phillips (known as Robin P-iano), who’ll soundtrack your evening with all your favourite tunes. Browse the song list – which features everything from Jerry Lee Lewis to Bruno Mars – then pipe up with any requests (he gets Piano Man A LOT, just FYI). Singing along is positively encouraged.

Piano Bars originated in the USA and are popular in London and throughout Europe.

Robin, who recently moved to Cambridge from London, has performed in venues such as The Savoy’s famous American Bar and for some of the biggest names in showbiz.

George Clooney can’t resist a singalong to Fly Me to the Moon, we hear.

The baby grand piano is supplied by Miller’s Music, who sponsor the Piano Bar. Sessions run 9pm-midnight. No need to book, just turn up and enjoy one of the most uniquely rambunctious, joy-inducing nights out you’re likely to find in Cambridge. All together now: ‘Sing us a soonnng, you’re the piano man!’ www.delucacucina.co.uk

MARINA AND THE DIAMONDS 20 Nov, Corn Exchange, £24.50 Known for hits like Hollywood, Primadonna and I Am Not a Robot, Marina Diamandis’ catchy tunes, gutsy vocals and quirky style have won her a global following of loyal fans. See her at the Corn Exchange this November. www.cambridgelivetrust.co.uk

LIANNE LA HAVAS Corn Exchange, 7 Dec, £21 The beguiling folk and soul singer hits Cambridge following a triumphant festival circuit this summer and the release of her latest album, Blood, on 31 July. www.cambridge livetrust.co.uk

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NIGHTLIFE

LODESTAR FESTIVAL Book your tickets now for Lodestar, the boutique festival in the Fens, which this year takes place 4-6 September. Offering a laid-back vibe, a host of great acts and a beautiful countryside setting, Lodestar is a top option if you’re after a chilled out family-friendly festival (it’s even got lovely clean, award-winning loos!), at a snip of the price of other events of its kind.

Recently announced for the 2015 line-up, in a bit of a coup for Lodestar, were Razorlight – the Johnny Borrell fronted indie pop group known for huge hits like Golden Touch, America, Before I Fall to Pieces and In the Morning.

They’ll be joined by bands like The Sunshine Underground, Kitten and Lùisa, and there’ll be plenty of other entertainment including comedy, theatre and kids’ activities. Stay tuned to next month’s Edition for more details.

Full weekend adult tickets are £110, children under 15 go free. Day tickets are also available. www.lodestarfestival.com

NEWMARKET NIGHTS Having already welcomed pop goddess Kylie, boogie rock legends Status Quo and Irish boy band Boyzone to their stage this season, Newmarket Nights rounds things off in style in August with a trio of top acts.

On 7 August, Welsh superstar Tom Jones pays a visit to belt out some of his greatest hits like Kiss, Delilah, She’s A Lady and It’s Not Unusual. Known for his knickerthrowing inducing stage shows, this promises to be a not-to-be-missed performance.

Next up on the 14th, catch new wave icons Spandau Ballet, who are celebrating their 35th anniversary year as a band this year. Since their debut single To Cut a Long Story Short,, in 1983, the band have enjoyed ten top ten hits including Only When You Leave, True and, of course, Gold.

Finally, on 29 August, hybrid boyband McBusted will be hitting the racecourse for a day of pure gold pop heaven at Summer Saturday Live. This synergy of Busted and McFly first came to be after the two groups joined forces for a one-off gig and got a phenomenal reaction from the crowd back in 2013. A supergroup was born, and they now tour together performing both hits from both the original bands, plus new material they’ve written together.

See website for times and prices. newmarket.thejockeyclub.co.uk/ newmarket-nights

YOUNGBLOOD BRASS BAND The brass band has been enjoying an exhilarating revival in recent years, spearheaded by the likes of the Hackney Colliery Band, Soul Rebels, the Hot 8 Brass Band (who are due to play Cambridge this October), Hypnotic Brass Ensemble and this lot: Youngblood Brass Band.

A ten-piece outfit formed 15 years ago, the band takes the signature New Orleans brass band sound and infuses it with hip hop, soul, punk and uplifting jazz. Honouring their roots but flouting convention in an infectiously raucous fashion, the band are known for their lively shows. Whether it’s their energetic, jazzy cover of Michael Jackson classic Human Nature, the sultry reimagining of Killing Me Softly, a bouncy rework of Chaka Khan’s Ain’t Nobody or their diverse collection of original compositions, Youngblood know how to get a crowd grooving.

Catch them doing their thing at Cambridge Junction’s J2 on 23 August. Tickets are £16 adv. www.junction.co.uk

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CAMBRIDGE SOUND WORDS WESLEY FREEMAN-SMITH

THE CAMBRIDGE

SOUND

#11 mallory knox

riting from Arizona, Sam Douglas of Mallory Knox is in a tour bus; possibly not an uncommon place to be while on tour. Sure it sounds glamorous, but chances are a lot of the time you’ll end up somewhere between one sight and another, mostly seeing audiences and venues. What’s the view from the nearest window? “I’m currently in my bunk somewhere between Orlando and Jacksonville, which unfortunately doesn’t have a window, much to my despair.”

Not that they’re complaining. Warped is one of alternative rock and punk’s most famous tours, a travelling carnival hitting as many of America’s states as it can and setting up in parking lots, fields and amphitheatres. “It’s definitely a unique way of touring,” says Sam. “Each day is different which keeps it interesting. There are over 60 bands on this tour as well, which I don’t think happens anywhere else in the music world.”

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Mallory Knox are the local lads that did good, and they’re well aware of how fortuitous a thing this is. One of the most recurrent themes throughout all their interviews, including this one, is how thankful they are to everyone who got

both sides are equally sincere and equally accomplished. Along with their fellow Cantabrigians, Lonely The Brave (who were profiled in May’s Cambridge Sound), Mallory Knox are part of the reason that British rock still breathes.

we are getting to play places that we never thought we would even visit them there. Named after Natural Born Killers’ murderous heroine, they’ve taken Juliette Lewis’s cult character all the way to the dizzying heights of the UK charts. (“We were nearly called Dorian Gray, but there was a cheesy Hollywood film coming out,” says Wikipedia).

To say they’re unashamedly radiofriendly, as The Guardian were quick to observe, implies a calculated move.

Within their electrically charged anthems there lives an honest love of pop music;

“We sometimes have chats between ourselves,” says Sam. “When you sit back and take it in, it’s been an unbelievable journey. We are very thankful.”

When you’re in the middle of an Arizona desert playing to audiences who know your lyrics by heart – that’s what making it feels like. It must be very surreal.

“The best things are without a doubt the shows and seeing how much the songs you have written mean to someone else. We are getting to play places that we

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CAMBRIDGE SOUND

never thought we would even visit, and at venues in the UK on our upcoming tour that we never imagined we would play, let alone headline.

“The worst thing without a doubt is being homesick and missing your loved ones though. Family is everything at the end of the day, and leaving them and my girlfriend while I’m off around the world can be very hard. You just want them there with you.”

Chart climber Asymmetry is Mallory Knox’s second album and debuted at number 16, rubbing shoulders with the cult act Black Veil Brides and putting them within throwing distance of Taylor Swift. It’s also an incredibly personal album, that chronicles the members’ violent upheavals in their private lives over the last two years.

“It reflects perfectly what we were all going through at the time,” Sam explains.

“Like everyone you have to overcome some personal struggles that can really affect you, but I’ve also had some amazing things happen to me in that time too. Personally I’m in a different place to where I was when we wrote that album.”

Avoiding the sophomore slump, Asymmetry refines the accomplished

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sound of their 2013 album Signals while allowing them to push forward into tender new territories – an audacious sevenminute epic, braver song structures and an emotionally unbridled, stadium-filling finale. It’s ambitious and inventive while still being catchy throughout; for want of a better word, it’s all incredibly real.

However big they get, I doubt Mallory Knox will ever forget who they are and where they come from. With a muchanticipated homecoming show on the horizon, we’ve got every reason to welcome them back.

Any postcards you fancy dictating for folks back home? “Yes, thank you for all your support… If you’ve bought our album, our merchandise or came to a show – we wouldn’t be where we are without you. Also up The U’s!”

Mallory Knox play Cambridge Junction on 30 September. Tickets £15 adv. www.junction.co.uk

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MUSIC

Jordan Worland from local music website Slate the Disco selects his must-see gigs in Cambridge this month ur front-runner this month is the epic interdisciplinary and cross-arts Junkyard Festival taking place at the Cambridge Junction on the 22nd. The one-day event returns for its second instalment this year and is building on the success of the 2014 outing by introducing visual arts, spoken word and theatre alongside a stellar line-up of music.

Spanning a host of varied genres, the music at Junkyard is an unadulterated celebration of the best on offer from the east of England. Horse Party, our first Junkyard tip, are a band who have naturally tapped into music’s power to stir a stagnant mentality, and their recent album is a harmony of raw, lo-fi expression and liberating rock-your-cares-away hooks.

Coming on like Fleetwood Mac covering

dEUS via Fugazi and early Verve, Horse Party got together after a night spent drinking in a church, and their releases to date have excited through their grittiness reminiscent of a Cloud Nothings record while still having a cool 90s nod to sombre/ emo vocals.

Also appearing at Junkyard are the enigmatic electro-indie quintet Lunacre.

Their recent EP is a multifarious listen, which blends a number of influences and calls to mind the sounds of Vondelpark, Radiohead and at times the soft ambience of Mount Kimbie. Their sound is a unique sonic amalgamation that kicks up a gear in

a live setting. Other Junkyard music treats include Goldstar, who mix classic dub beats, siphoned guitars and shimmering synths with a poignantly fierce lead vocal.

Elsewhere on the bill keep an eye out for the wonderful songcraft of Rachel Clark and the exciting hip-hop stylings of The Dressing Gown Mob. The Travis Waltons celebrate the release of their second full-length offering Separation Season at the Corner House on the 8th. And with these former Cambridge residents back with their sophomore release this summer, prepare yourself for sweet, sweet irresistible pop melodies mixed with Midwest-indebted sonic textures.

Opening for The Travis Waltons are rising indie rock outfit Akuso. With their polished heavy rock and their riff-dominated, yet melodic tunes that bring to mind a mix of Hell is for Heroes and early Biffy Clyro, these guys are definitely worth a punt.

On announcing an extended break from being a band, Random Hand launched a PledgeMusic campaign to help fund the final album – it was smashed in under six hours thanks to the band’s faithful fan base.

It currently sits at 214% of its target. The new album, yet to be titled, will be released in September this year. On 24 August the Yorkshire punk-ska-metal quartet plays The Portland Arms as part of their farewell, final swansong tour.

Baltimore feminist hardcore band War on Women are renowned for their furious live sets and August sees this five-piece play the Corner House on the 9th. Their sound

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pitches somewhere between early Metallica meets Bikini Kill – expect inventive and intrusive punk.

Originally from Bishop’s Stortford, Elliot Porter has really made a mark with his music in the past two years. A prolific live performer and writer, he has released two EPs and three singles during that time, the latest being the free download Keep Going – the lost track from his EP of the same name, produced by Dave Gerard. If you like Ryan Adams, The Beatles and Neil Young with a unique twist, then Elliot’s music will be for you. Porter starts and ends his UK tour in Cambridge this month, starting at Relevant Records on the 7th and playing Cambridge a second time on the 29th, this time at the Corner House.

Support at the Relevant show comes courtesy of the gorgeous tones of Melody Causton and her contemporary take on folk, which melds rich vocals and dynamic acoustic musicianship.

We close with a nod to the awesome Youngblood Brass Band who make their Cambridge debut on the 23rd at the J2.

Youngblood Brass Band flout tradition in an ecstatic and incendiary fashion, taking the form of a New Orleans brass band and morphing it into a punked-out hip-hop behemoth of groove and purpose.

Tell us about your gig at www.slatethedisco.com

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ARTS & CULTURE

We explore the arts and culture scene in Cambridge, showcasing some of the many exciting exhibitions and shows taking place around the city

KETTLE’S YARD AT THE FITZWILLIAM With Kettle’s Yard currently closed for renovation, The Fitzwilliam Museum is housing some of its collection. In the first of two displays, key arrangements from Kettle’s Yard’s house will be recreated in the Glaisher Gallery in the Fitzwilliam, opening on 14 August. These groupings of artworks and other objects reflect Kettle’s Yard founder, Jim Ede’s belief in the importance of creating balance in spaces to enhance the beauty of the works of art and objects that they contain. Works include paintings and sculptures by Henri Gaudier-Brzeska, Ben Nicholson, Alfred Wallis, Joan Miró and Christopher Wood.

Included in the display is one of the most significant works in the Kettle’s Yard collection, Miro’s Tic Tic (right). Ede often described himself as a ‘friend of artists’, and much of his collection was acquired over five decades through these friendships. Ede visited Miró on several occasions in the interwar years and Ede wrote that he received the painting while discussing Miró’s work with him on a café terrace in Paris.

While Ede lived at Kettle’s Yard he kept ‘open house’ every afternoon of term, personally guiding visitors around his home. He wrote of Tic Tic: “The Miró was to me an opportunity to show undergraduates the importance of balance. If I put my finger over the spot at the top right all the rest of the picture slid into the left-hand bottom corner. If I covered the one at the bottom, horizontal lines appeared, and if somehow I could take out the tiny red spot in the middle everything flew to the edges.” www.fitzmuseum.cam.ac.uk

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ARTS & CULTURE

The best

outdoor Shakespeare ...

1. CAMBRIDGE SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL The city’s own summer festival of Shakespeare continues this month, taking place in beautiful college garden settings that are rarely glimpsed by the general public.

Sparky comedy Much Ado About Nothing, the story of Beatrice and Benedick, is at Trinity College; A Midsummer Night’s Dream unfolds at St John’s, Timon of Athens explores fate and fortune at Robinson College’s outdoor stage and Macbeth will face his fears and the supernatural in King’s College gardens.

All shows run from 3 to 22 August, tickets £16 (12 concessions). www.cambridgeshakespeare.com

2. MUCH ADO ABOUT NOTHING, GLOBE ON TOUR Shakespeare’s Globe on Tour stops off in Cambridge this August, setting up camp in The Master’s Garden, Corpus Christi College, for five days of Elizabethan-style comedy. On a traditional wooden stage, these top-of-theirgame performers will present Much Ado About Nothing: a story of love, wit and dark twists.

Claudio and Hero are inseparable – nothing can keep them apart. Benedick and Beatrice, meanwhile, are at each other’s throats – surely nothing can bring them together. While their delicious sparring clearly reveals deeper, hidden passions (clear to all but themselves), only a trick will get them to confess their love. Though one of Shakespeare’s most enjoyable romps, Much Ado also visits the darker countries of shame, court politics and deception.

The play will be performed outside: bring your own chairs and rugs and dress for all weathers. It’s on 25-30 August (7pm Tues to Sat; 2pm Thur, Sat & Sun), and tickets £20. www.cambridgeartstheatre.com

3. LOVE’S LABOUR’S LOST, HEARTBREAK PRODUCTIONS Take a frivolous frolic through the grounds of Wimpole Hall with Heartbreak Productions who are putting their own twist on Shakespeare’s classic court comedy. In a prestigious Oxford college, three young men forgo their social life in pursuit of knowledge – until the arrival of three charming young ladies threatens to crumble their worthy principles.

Bring a picnic, warm jumper and something to sit on, and arrive early to bag the best spot. Gates open 6.30pm, 29 August; tickets £14 (£10 children). www.nationaltrust.org.uk

4. TWELFTH NIGHT, NASU ENZURU Bohemian outdoor theatre maestros Nasu Enzuru return for a summer stint at three different locations across the city, performing one of Shakespeare’s most popular tales, Twelfth Night. On 20 August, they’ll be at The Willow Tree in Bourn, an enchanting gastropub with vintage interiors and a beautiful garden, dominated by a cascading willow tree.

Gather in the gardens and watch the story of shipwrecked twins, mistaken identity and misplaced affections unfold as day turns to night. Arrive early and

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enjoy great food from the pop-up Rabbit Hole restaurant, then relax and watch the pre-show entertainment from the Willow Tree’s tipi lounge.

From 21 to 25 August, they’ll be taking the play to Burwash Manor, Barton, before coming to the city centre for extra special performances at Scudamore’s Punt Station, 27 to 30 August. Settle on the banks of the Cam as the barefoot players re-enact the Bard’s tale. All performances start at 7.30pm.

Nasu Enzuru are a gypsy-punk ensemble who make immersive theatre with a dash of circus, sass and magic. Their shows feature live music and fantastic costumes. Tickets £15 (£12 concessions) from www.wegottickets.com. www.nasuenzurutheatre.com

5. THE TAMING OF THE SHREW, CAST The theatre company established under the patronage of Dame Judi Dench present a preview production of The Taming of the Shrew at Ely Cathedral this month.

Lovely Bianca can’t accept a suitor until her contrary sister Katherina is wed, leading to family frictions, comedy and drama as one bold young gentleman, Petruccio, attempts to tame this untamable ‘shrew’. But is he worthy of her love or will he go too far to break her spirit?

7.30pm, 27 August is your chance to see the latest production by this celebrated Cambridge University company before they take the show to the United States. www.castcambridge.com

MOVIES ON THE MEADOWS

MORE OUTDOOR ENTERTAINMENT… POP-UP CINEMA “Of all the gin joints, in all the towns, in all the world, she walks into mine…” Spend a relaxing late-summer evening in the company of Bergman, Bogey and co as Hope Street Yard hosts an open-air pop-up cinema for one night only. There’ll be cocktails by La Raza and delicious burgers from Steak & Honour at 8pm before the celluloid starts rolling at 8.30pm, showing that seminal picture from Hollywood’s golden age, Casablanca.

Released in 1942, Casablanca transports us to unoccupied Africa during the early days of the Second World War, where nightclub owner Rick Blaine (Humphrey Bogart) runs into an old flame (Ingrid Bergman).

It’s on 22 August and tickets are £8 from EventBrite, with funds being donated to Mill Road’s Festive Lights fund. Fancy dress optional!

DID YOU KNOW? ‘Play it again, Sam’ is one of the most misquoted lines in movie history: the line is actually just “Play it, Sam”.

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Recent box office hits, cinema classics and family films old and new will be screened on Grantchester Meadows this August bank holiday weekend.

A precursor to Cambridge Film Festival, Movies on the Meadows takes place from 29 to 31 August and sees the meadows transformed into a wild, open-air cinema. Spread out a rug by the riverbank and watch as three giant, inflatable screens emerge, showing three different hit movies. On 29 August, choose between 2001: A Space Odyssey, Paddington and The Theory of Everything. On 30th it’s Back To The Future, Brief Encounter and The Railway Children, and on 31 August see Far From The Madding Crowd, All That Heaven Allows or Letter From An Unknown Woman.

Movies on the Meadows is one of Cambridge’s most anticipated and enchanting events. No one wants to be shut up in a hot, darkened cinema at this time of year: and what better way to spend a summer evening than outdoors, under the stars, with a bunch of friends watching a great movie? Bring a bottle, a picnic and your favourite woolly jumper (for when the temperature drops) to complete the picture.

Films start around 8pm, gates open 6pm. www.cambridgefilmfestival.org.uk

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ANGLIAN POTTERS SUMMER EXHIBITION Clay-throwers from around the region will be showcasing their work at the Anglian Potters’ Summer Exhibition, running 15 to 30 August. With more than 60 artists taking part, there’s bound to be something to catch your eye. It takes place at the stunning setting of Emmanuel College, Cambridge and the open evening is on 15 August, 6pm to 8.30pm.

Anglian Potters is a collective of studio potters and ceramicists. Established in the 1980s, it now incorporates more than 400 members from all over East Anglia.

Keep an eye out for other events throughout the year. www.anglianpotters.org.uk

CAMBRIDGE EARLY MUSIC Enjoy three magnificent concerts performed by Cambridge Early Music, celebrating the sound of Italy and the spirit of the Carnival.

Philomel is at Sidney Sussex College Chapel, on 9 August at 4pm.

Expect a battery of instruments and music designed for the streets and the ballroom. Tickets £20 (£15 concessions). Then on 12 August, at the same breathtaking venue, join The Intrepid Academy for a varied programme of sacred and secular music for instrument and voice.

Starts 8pm; tickets £25 (£20).

Finally on 14 August, the students of the Renaissance Summer School will present Italia Mia, a musical Grand Tour of 16th century Italy. It’s at 7.30pm, tickets £12 (£10). www.cambridgeearlymusic.org

ALL THAT GLISTERS… It’s not just the walls that are worth looking at this month at Byard Art, the contemporary gallery on King’s Parade. Currently, you’ll find a mix of jewellery, ceramics, crafts and mixed media on display as part of their Mixed Summer Show.

Statement jewellery includes pieces by Kotomi Yamamura, whose jewellery glimmers with golden and jewel-inspired hues. She uses a polymer clay combined with semiprecious stones, fused glass pieces and crystal, which are then decorated with gold mica powder. This allows the artist to create stunning jewellery at affordable prices.

Marie Canning creates delicate and intricate handcrafted porcelain jewellery, ideal for adorning a summer wardrobe. Each individual piece is created using a traditional timeless technique – throwing clay on a wheel. These tiny thrown pieces are then finished by hand and joined and backed with precious metals. You’ll also find jewellery made from tea leaves, and inspired by natural shapes like nuts, pears and cloves.

The Mixed Summer Show runs until 13 September. Entry is free. www.byardart.co.uk

TALKING HEADS Alan Bennett, master of comic observation, was nominated for three BAFTAs for his monologue, A Cream Cracker Under The Settee, spoken by an elderly woman lying on the floor after a fall in her living room. It forms part of a trio of Talking Heads monologues coming to Cambridge Arts Theatre this month. Originally filmed for television between 1988 and 1998, they provide imagined glimpses into different lives and characters; many of which are laced with dark humour, and all of which are regarded as modern classics at the pinnacle of the genre. A Chip In The Sugar and A Lady Of Letters complete the bill, performed by Stephanie Cole, Siobhan Redmond and Karl Theobald.

Talking Heads runs 17-22 August, 7.45pm (2.30pm Thur & Sat matinee). Tickets from £15. www.cambridgeartstheatre.com

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ARTS & CULTURE ershinson ©Robert G

city really sets my imagination on fire: it has extravagant old buildings, weird little alleys and side roads, cobbled streets, unexpected statues (like the one on Market Square, just look up!). Midsummer Common can be brooding, while the Fitzwilliam Museum is like something out of ancient Greece… I think the more important question is: why wouldn’t you set a fantastical story in Cambridge?!

Did you discover any interesting new places around town while researching?

Not really – I know the city pretty well!

I’ve always wanted to explore the colleges more, though, and find out all their secrets.

I’m sure they have plenty of them.

LOCAL READS: THE SENTINEL TRILOGY Cambridge born, Joshua Winning has created a world of danger and demons set in our incongruous city. It follows accidental hero Nicholas who, after his parents’ deaths, discovers a secret. The second book of the trilogy, Ruins, was published this year. Jenny Shelton finds out why Cambridge lends itself so well to fantasy.

London, but it just wasn’t working. I had an ‘aha!’ moment when I was walking around Cambridge one day and realised the obvious had been staring me in the face the whole time – I had to set the story here.

As soon as I realised that, the book came together and I couldn’t imagine the story taking place anywhere else.

Congratulations on the publication of Ruins: tell us about the book.

Thanks – I wasn’t sure it would ever be finished, to be honest, let alone published!

Like most sequels it’s bigger, weirder and (hopefully) more ambitious. We pick up with Nicholas Hallow, who goes on a quest to find a girl who could hold the key to going up against the Dark Prophets: but he has nothing to go on. He heads to Bury St Edmunds only to discover something evil has already landed.

Have you always lived in Cambridge?

I’ve lived in London for the past nine years, but I have family in Cambridge so I visit often. I went to university there and also stayed in Cambridge for a number of years after graduating, living with my grandad.

When I was a kid, the city felt huge, especially compared to Bury St Edmunds, where I grew up. Now it feels smaller, more intimate. Cambridge is beautiful but it has a stormy, gothic edge I love. You can easily imagine scaly monsters clattering over the cobbles when the sun goes down.

How would you describe Nicholas?

He’s a typical 15-year-old – bolshie, sarcastic, vulnerable – but he’s also been told he’s destined to be a great hero. After discovering the world of the Sentinels, with all its demons, talking cats and gung-ho pensioners, he’s not even sure how to be a teenager anymore, let alone a hero. With Ruins, we see his courage put to the test.

How much has Cambridge influenced your books?

Cambridge really gave Sentinel an identity and a distinct personality. In early drafts, the story was set in a nondescript part of

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How long did each book take to write?

I started writing Sentinel when I was about 15 and it wasn’t published until I was 30, so a little while! I saw it as a hobby, something to do when I wasn’t working shifts, studying or trying to get a job in London.

I fell so in love with this world, though, that I had to finish it. Luckily I managed to crank book two out in two years, so I’m getting quicker!

Have you always wanted to write? Was there ever another career plan?

Aside from a brief determination to become an Olympic gymnast? That dream died before I reached double figures, but as a kid, I always dreamed big. At one point I was really into drama, so I fantasised about becoming an actor (it felt a lot more realistic than that gymnastics ambition), but quickly I decided I wanted to tell stories

Fantasy novels are often set in a fictional place. Why did you choose to use somewhere real as your setting?

The best fantasy makes you believe the story could really happen, and I think one way of doing that is grounding the fantastical elements in reality. Though I love high fantasy like The Lord Of The Rings, I feel much more at home in a recognisably grubby world. That’s the world of Sentinel, where the monstrous and the magnificent hide just behind the mundane.

Cambridge already feels like it’s telling its own fantasy story most of the time. The

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ARTS & CULTURE

for a living. I still can’t quite believe I now get to do that – whether through writing books or working as a film journalist.

Was it easy to get published?

It certainly wasn’t easy, but the rise of selfpublishing helped. After receiving the usual knock-backs from agents and publishers, I decided to self-publish Sentinel via Amazon KDP (Kindle Direct Publishing). Happily, a handful of bloggers grabbed hold of it and were massively supportive, then I landed a publishing deal with Peridot Press.

There’s still a lot of stigma attached to selfpublishing, but it really is a fantastic way to get your book under readers’ noses. I know indie authors who are writing amazing stuff (check out David Estes).

Which other authors do you admire?

Roald Dahl, CS Lewis and Robin Jarvis all had a huge impact on me as a child. As an adult I’ve learnt a lot by reading Patrick Ness, and Stephen King does wonders with character. In the space of a page he can make you feel like you’ve known people their entire lives.

What do you want to get out of a book?

And what do you hope others will get out of yours?

For me, books are always about escapism, but the best books tell me something about the world or myself that I hadn’t considered before. Of course, I’m also a sucker for a big twist and a heart-dropping action scene, but who isn’t?

With my books, I only ever set out to entertain. I want to crank the dial to ‘thrilled’ at all times, though I’ll settle for ‘creeped out’ as well. Nicholas’s grief is my grief, and even though the book’s about monsters and fight scenes and talking cats, I wanted to lend a human edge to all the craziness.

GET SET FOR CAMBRIDGE ART FAIR Cambridge Art Fair returns for its third year this October, bringing together another selection of high-quality, UK-based and international dealers and galleries.

A major date in the art world’s calendar, it’s the only art fair outside London where you can view and buy sought-after paintings, prints and sculpture from the 18th, 19th and 20th centuries alongside contemporary art by today’s leading artists. There will be original work available to purchase by masters such as Picasso and Chagall, alongside beautiful original prints by the Great Bardfield group of artists whose work fills the wonderful Fry Art Gallery in Saffron Walden. The fair will also feature a great selection of contemporary art by today’s celebrated and respected artists, such as Sir Peter Blake and Maggi Hambling, and lots more besides.

Art enthusiasts, come and add to your collection or buy your first original piece of art, confident that all the work at the fair has been selected and vetted by the professional dealers and gallerists participating. Plus, many of the exhibitors are members of the Own Art scheme, meaning that you can pay for your favourite piece of art by interest-free instalments over ten months.

Cambridge Art Fair is at the Guildhall, 2-4 October. www.cambridgeartfair.com

What can we expect from the third book in the trilogy?

That would be telling! We’ll be back in Cambridge for the big finale, and as it’s the last book in the trilogy I want to create a really satisfying ending that’s big on emotion, action and surprises.

I’m also currently working on a spin-off that will hopefully be available this time next year. It puts Jessica and Isabel (my favourite character) under the spotlight, filling in some of their backstory. I’m having a ball writing it.

Ruins is out now, published by Peridot Press, priced £6.99. www.thesentineltrilogy.com

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AFRICAN GUITAR CONCERT He has toured extensively and performed two sold-out performances at the Globe Theatre, and now guitarist Derek Gripper will wow Cambridgeshire audiences.

Specialising in the classical guitar music of South Africa, Gripper will play an exciting, intimate gig at Stapleford Granary on 8 August, including interpretations of works

by Brazilian composer Egberto Gismonti, collaborations with classical Indian tabla, and arrangements of JS Bach’s solo violin works. Tickets £12; children £6. www.staplefordgranary.org.uk

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Cafés, parties and summer reads Summer for many of us is a time to drench ourselves not just in the heat but in exquisite reading, catching up on all those novels gathering dust that we’ve been meaning to read since Christmas. Cambridge is abundant with perfect, shady spots to escape to with a good book – so why not take an evening for yourself and stretch out under a tree with a fabulous book?

Although there’s a real danger of getting caught up in what writer Elif Şafak might describe as a ‘cultural ghetto’ by immersing yourself in what you know, I do love a good read that’s connected to Cambridge somehow – such as Rebecca Stott’s Ghostwalk, eerie and just so darn

clever. I’m also finally reading Period Piece: A Cambridge Childhood this summer, by Darwin’s granddaughter Gwen Raverat.

Another wonderful addition to your summer reading list has to be The Versions of Us, a novel from debut author, Laura Barnett, who after graduating from Clare College went on to become a journalist. The novel (available in 20 countries) recounts three versions of the same love story, inspired by parallel universes, complete with scenes from The Backs, bikes and 1950s Cambridge satchels, and hailed as ‘triumphant’ by The Telegraph.

I loved listening to Laura talk at Waterstones about writing back in July, alongside acclaimed debut novelist Antonia Honeywell, whose dystopian tale, The Ship, has attracted praise in The Guardian, Harper’s Bazaar and Elle. With good reason: it’s blinking brilliant, and a dark must-read

Ancient Music), his collection was auctioned

by Cheffins, and promptly snapped up by Fiona and Michelle, the team behind FiMi. Expect gorgeous scents too, of course.

Finally, lovers of house parties will adore Junkyard: Houseparty at Cambridge Junction, on 22 August, produced by the creative apprentices at the venue (as well as Cambridge Musuems), showcasing young artists from the east of England.

Why not take an evening for yourself and stretch out under a tree with a book?

Above Image: Keep your reading local this summer – try The Versions of Us by Clare College alumna, Laura Barnett. Right: Check out the magical illustrations by Chen Xi at CB1 and Clowns.

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for our times, tackling contemporary politics and modern fin-de-siècle anxiety with constructed elegance. All in all, a pageturning thriller. Watch out for more debut author evenings at Waterstones bookshop in September.

It’s never too hot to enjoy a cup of tea, this is the UK after all! Comic and tea lovers, look no further than Dreams and Shadows

by Chen Xi (available from CB1 and Clowns).

Her magical illustrations glitter with energy and have been exhibited in some of the best cafés in the area, such as Ely’s Samovar Tea House and Mill Road’s Black Cat. Vintage crockery lovers seeking candles with a Cambridge twist, check FiMi (www. fimi.co), for limited-edition candles upcycled in antique ‘coffee cans’ from the late Christopher Hogwood’s collection. One of the city’s most-loved musicologists and conductors (founder of the Academy of

“The house party theme started off as a joke, when one of our team said: ‘why not just have a house party?’ and it grew out of that,” says Kate, operations apprentice at Cambridge Junction. “The whole venue is transformed into a house, with a kitchen, a DJ room, a stage-come-art installation made out of kitchen furniture, like washing machines, by visual artists; plus a living room as the main stage, with installations made out of armchairs, TVs and sofas. The whole experience is interactive.”

Last year, they turfed Cambridge Junction’s car park to give it a festival vibe, so expect major transformations!

Have a fabulous August, all.

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MUSEUMS

WORDS JENNY SHELTON

hought museums were more of a rainy-day pastime? Think again, and check out the extensive programme of free summer events at Cambridge’s many museums – it’ll be a pleasant surprise.

Cambridge University Museums are encouraging everyone to explore their breathtaking galleries and fascinating artefacts (from ancient dino bones to retro computers) through exciting, interactive means. You could take the kids on a Roman Holiday, study old black & white photos or make your own heraldic shield… Pick up a Museum Passport and collect stamps from every venue you explore on your Grand Tour of these magical worlds.

Events are free, drop-in and for all ages unless otherwise stated.

1 AUGUST ANGLO SAXON ADVENTURE ELY MUSEUM Meet the Anglo-Saxons, who lived in Britain in the 5th century and shaped much of our modern way of life. Join in activities and crafts. 11am-4pm 3 AUGUST ALL ABOUT THAT FUNGUS WHIPPLE MUSEUM Fun-guys and gals, come and examine fungi models and make your own to take home. 11am-1pm 5 AUGUST TOWERS AND ROCKETS MUSEUM OF TECHNOLOGY Design and build your very own rocket under the watchful eye of experts. Ages 7+.

Pre-book. 10am-12.30pm CREATE WITH CLAY SAFFRON WALDEN MUSEUM Make clay figurines inspired by the ancient Egyptians, local history and the rest of the museum’s collection. 11am-1pm, 2-4pm PIRATES AHOY! DENNY ABBEY Set sail on a search for buried pirate

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treasure (why do they always bury it?) and make your own pirate cutlass. Avast!

12-4pm 6 AUGUST GET CREATIVE WITH SCIENCE POLAR MUSEUM Science-themed story time, followed by a drawing workshop with artist Emma Stibbons. Ages 4-8. 10-11.30am BUILD A BUG CENTRE FOR COMPUTING HISTORY Get soldering at this workshop for aspiring engineers and create a crawling micro-bug.

Ages 7+. £22. 11am-1pm VIKING VESSELS ELY MUSEUM Discover more about this famous seafaring race and make your own Viking long boat. £3. 10.30am-1pm ROMAN HOLIDAY BURWELL MUSEUM (& other dates) Jump aboard the time-travelling bus and visit the Romans! See how they spent their summers and get involved with some Roman games, crafts, trails and challenges. £2. Pre-book. 2-5pm 7 AUGUST BOXING CLEVER ST NEOTS MUSEUM (& other dates) Make a bird box and a marble puzzle, and find out about life underground during the

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MUSEUMS

CSI CLASSICS MUSEUM OF CLASSICAL ARCHAEOLOGY Become a detective for the day and help solve crimes at the museum. With storyteller Marion Leeper. Ages 7-11. Pre-book. 2-4pm

13 AUGUST PHOTOGRAPHS THROUGH THE AGES MUSEUM OF CAMBRIDGE (& other dates) Raid the dressing-up box and take a Victorian ‘selfie’ using costumes and studio backdrops, inspired by this collection of old photos. Ages 5+, £2. 10.30am-12pm, 2-3.30pm

10 AUGUST FANTASTIC BEASTS GREAT ST MARY’S CHURCH Scour the church for real and imaginary beasts, then create your own chimera champion. 11am-2pm

POP GOES THE 60S BURWELL MUSEUM Experience the swinging 60s with costumes, crafts, lava lamps and space-age experiments, then do some disco dancing at the Burwell ‘cavern’. £2 per child. 2-5pm

12 AUGUST GLASS FUSING WORKSHOP STAINED GLASS MUSEUM, ELY Make a colourful glass panel at the Stained Glass Museum: it will be fired and ready to collect the following week. Ages 8+, £12.

2-4pm

14 AUGUST POSTCARDS FROM AROUND THE WORLD MUSEUM OF ARCHAEOLOGY & ANTHROPOLOGY Become an explorer and discover exciting new places. Get arty and make crafts inspired by other cultures. 11am-1pm

First World War. £3. 11am-3pm

John Wiltshire. Ages 5-12. 1.30-4.30pm

COSMIC Lift off! Explore our solar system in this hands-on space adventure at Cambridge Science Centre.

AROUND THE WORLD GARDEN TRAIL Track down plants from all around the world to mark off in your Passport at the CU Botanic Garden (children free, adults normal admission).

ANIMAL SAFARI The Museum of Archeology and Anthropology’s The Power of Paper exhibition is home to all manner of beasts – can you spot them all?

WHAT’S WHAT AT WATERLOO? It’s 200 years since this decisive battle: look at how it has been portrayed in books, paintings and poems since then at Cambridge University Library.

Ages 7-13.

WHIPPLE ADVENTURE BAGS Pick up a bag filled with surprises and activities to do throughout the Whipple Museum: each one will take you on a different adventure. www.cam.ac.uk/museums-andcollections

17 AUGUST CLAY CREATURES GREAT ST MARY’S CHURCH Hunt for gargoyles around Cambridge, find the Green Man of St Mary’s and make a clay creature. 11am-2pm 18 AUGUST FAMILY FUN DAY MARCH & DISTRICT MUSEUM A day of fun, family activities in the Fens.

10.30am-3.30pm 19 AUGUST DESIGN IT! WEAR IT! NORRIS MUSEUM, ST IVES Design and print a T-shirt to take home and wear, with textile artist Ricki Outis. £2.50.

11am-3pm MAKE YOUR OWN DINO FEET SAFFRON WALDEN MUSEUM Take inspiration from Jurassic World and the museum’s fossil collection and create your own stompy dinosaur feet. 11am-1pm, 2-4pm

26 AUGUST WHO ATE HARRIET? DENNY ABBEY (+ other dates) Harriet is a hen. Was a hen. Someone ate her. Who? Piece together the clues and solve this poultry mystery. 12-4pm 27 AUGUST GADGET HACK CENTRE FOR COMPUTING HISTORY Love taking things apart to see how they work? Find out what goes on inside phones, laptops and music players. Age 7+. Prebook. 11am-1pm FUN IN THE THRIFTY 40S! BURWELL MUSEUM Go back to wartime Britain and play with traditional 1940s toys, experience the blackout and more. £2. 2-5pm 28 AUGUST TALL TALES OF THE FEN TIGER SEDGWICK MUSEUM What is the Fen Tiger? Does it exist?

Examine the myth of this local legend and make up some of your own at an interactive storytelling workshop. Age 5-7. Pre-book.

10.30am-12pm

20 AUGUST CORN DOLLY DELIGHT FARMLAND MUSEUM (& 19 August) Learn this traditional country craft and make your own corn dolly to take home. 12-4pm 24 AUGUST OUTDOOR DRAWING CU BOTANIC GARDEN Spend time amongst the plants and flowers and pick up drawing tips from wildlife artist

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ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

THE NEW LOOK BRIDGE HAS REOPENED The Bridge in Waterbeach has reopened after an extensive refurbishment. With more comfortable seating and a lighter and brighter feel, the upgraded pub restaurant is the perfect venue to while away a few hours with friends over great food and a drink or two.

The 200-year old pub is situated on the Car Dyke, a Roman waterway with a course that can be traced as far as Lincoln, where recently archaeologists found extensive evidence of Roman settlements. With a boat mooring facility and the Cam Sailing Club close by, the Bridge is an idyllic place to relax and unwind.

With the aim of keeping all the charms of an old English pub, the refurbishment has been sympathetic to the pub’s original features while giving a much fresher feel with new flooring and furnishings.

Steve West, general manager at the Bridge, said: “We’re delighted with the quality of our latest renovation, and can’t wait to show off our new look. We’re proud to play a pivotal role in our local community, and are pleased that the refurbishment allows us to continue the tradition of being a destination Waterbeach can be proud of.”

“We’re looking forward to sharing our fresh new look with returning and new guests alike over the coming weeks and providing them with a meal to remember in an enviable setting.”

As the warm weather settles, the secluded waterside pub garden is an ideal spot to enjoy one of the speciality local cask ales. The large, outside seating area is perfect for long summer evenings after a walk along the banks of the beautiful River Cam. The pub is renowned for serving tasty Sunday lunches, including its succulent roast topside of beef, roast turkey breast and roast British pork leg. The Bridge also offers its famous trio of roasts, a combination of the three aforementioned dishes served with all the trimmings.

You can now download the latest Chef and Brewer app from the App Store or Google Play, with which you can reserve a table and browse the latest menus and offers.

The Bridge is open Monday to Saturday 11am– 11pm and Sunday 12 noon until 10.30pm.

The Bridge, Waterbeach, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire CB25 9HZ

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This offer entitles the guest to £10 off food when £30 or more is spent on food from our main or special menus. The voucher must be redeemed at The Bridge, Waterbeach. Offer excludes Lunch Menu, Evening Set Menus, Sunday Roast Menu. Valid Monday to Thursday, Monday 3 August to Thursday 6 August 2015 and Monday 10 August to Thursday 13 August 2015. Only one £10 discount per voucher, one voucher per person, one voucher per table. This offer must be surrendered upon use. Copied, defaced or damaged vouchers will not be accepted. Cash value of this voucher is £0.00000001. This voucher is not transferable. Offer subject to availability. We reserve the right to cancel, amend or withdraw this offer at any time. This voucher cannot be used in conjunction with Tesco vouchers, Gourmet Society cards or with Spirit employee vouchers including friends and family vouchers. Offer available to over 18s only. www.drinkaware.co.uk Promoter: Spirit Pub Company, Sunrise House, Ninth Avenue, Burton-upon-Trent, Staffordshire DE14 3JZ. By redeeming this voucher you will accept that Spirit Pub Company can contact you in the future regarding any offers and promotions.

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23/07/2015 15:06

FOOD DRINK A N D

GET THE INSIDE TRACK ON CAMBRIDGE’S FOODIE SCENE WITH EDITION’S MONTHLY SUPPLEMENT

THE BEST BURGERS IN TOWN

A Mac & Cheese Crawl of Cambridge...

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FOOD

FOOD NEWS A MONTHLY ROUND-UP OF GASTRONOMIC GOINGS-ON IN CAMBRIDGE AND THE SURROUNDING AREA

NOVI OPENS ON REGENT STREET A new addition to Cambridge’s independent drinking and dining scene has recently opened in the form of Novi, a contemporary ‘continentalstyle’ bar and café occupying the spot on Regent Street where The Fountain once stood.

Novi has lots to offer: during the day, expect delicious cakes, healthy breakfast and brunch options, and artisan coffee downstairs in the cafébar. Then when nightfall comes, venture upstairs for ‘botanical cocktails’ and a sophisticated, chilled-out vibe. The interior has had a total makeover too, and we have to say it looks great. In fact, we’d venture that’s it’s now one of the most stylish spots in the city for a drink and a bite to eat.

Says owner Matthew Knight: “It’s been a really exciting project. We’re an independent business, very much design led, with a fantastic bespoke list of cocktails which we make using our own syrups and fresh ingredients. We’ll have a café vibe during the day, with superfast broadband and globallyinspired small plates for sharing. The top floor will be a relaxed, luxury lounge bar with table service and comfy seating, open till late.” (Open 8pm-11pm Mon/Tues, 9am-11pm Sun & 8am-3am Wed-Sat). www.novicambridge.co.uk

WINE TASTING Enjoy France, Spain and New Zealand in a glass with Cambridge Wine Merchants, who are hosting a deluxe evening of wine tasting from their Cherry Hinton branch. Derek Langton from Moët Hennessy will introduce some of the finest wines from Champagne, New Zealand and Spain; the perfect opportunity to brush up on your expertise and sample some fabulous wines.

You’ll sample non-vintage blanc de blancs and non-vintage rosé from Ruinart, which was founded in 1729 and is thought to be the oldest Champagne house. Next, get your nose around Cloudy Bay’s groundbreaking Sauvignon Blanc, wonderfully textured Chardonnay and the latest vintage of Pinot Noir. This is rounded off with the intense wines of Numanthia, from Spain’s ancient Toro region.

The evening takes place at 7.30pm on 26 August. Tickets are £25 including nibbles. www.cambridgewine.com

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‘EAT BEAUTIFUL’ WITH ITSU As reported last month, national healthy eating restaurant itsu has opened on Sidney Street. We were at the recent opening, getting a taste of their ‘eat beautifully’ philosophy and Asian-influenced cuisine. Founded by one of the early pioneers of Pret a Manger, itsu first opened in Chelsea in 1997 to serve diners a light, bright and healthy lunchtime menu. With more than 50 branches across the capital, Cambridge is only the fourth store outside London and will be the flagship location for the East of England.

The itsu menu is made up of protein-packed breakfasts, low carbohydrate salads, hearty and low fat chicken noodle soups, fields of crunchy vegetables, brown rice potsu dishes and tasty sushi, all sustainably sourced and made from the best quality ingredients. www.itsu.com

INDER'S KITCHEN POPS UP AT STICKYBEAKS Camb Events, run by two local food and wine enthusiasts, marks its first birthday this month and to celebrate, they’re hosting a pop-up dining event with Inder’s Kitchen at cute Cambridge café, Stickybeaks. Although the Thali menu hasn’t been revealed yet (it’ll be announced very soon), we’re assured that it will represent the authentic flavours of the subcontinent on which Inder’s Kitchen has built its excellent reputation. The dishes will be matched with wines from around the globe.

Camb Events was established by brother and sister duo Jamie and Annabel to bring exciting foodie events to the city. Since last August, they have put on seven successful pop-ups featuring local chefs and restaurants, delighting more than 3,000 guests.

This pop-up takes place on Friday 21 August at 7.45pm. Tickets are £37.50, including a glass of fizz and Indian tapas on arrival, a four-course Thali meal and three matched wines. www.facebook.com/cambevents

WANDERING YAK AT RHODE ISLAND

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Increasingly popular eating spot, Rhode Island on Cherry Hinton High Street will play host to The Wandering Yak for a pop-up of middle eastern-inspired food on 27 August, 11am-8pm.

Says Catherine Bell of Rhode Island: “The Wandering Yak will be the third in our monthly pop-up series. This event will be a bit different, however, as they’re parking their amazing truck right by the restaurant. Look forward to middle eastern food with a twist, bringing fresh dishes that happen to be vegetarian. Even meat eaters will have a field day with this menu.”

The menu will be paired with fresh fruit juices and cocktails – perfect for summer!

Catherine continues: “When we met Wandering Yak we couldn’t wait to host a popup with the team. We loved their passion for creative vegetarian cooking.” www.rhodeislanduk.com

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SUNDOWNER SESSIONS For quite possibly the best sunset in town – served with a side of street food and shaken up with great cocktails and music – head for the hills this month: the Gog Magog Hills, more specifically.

On 7 and 21 August, the Gog Magog Hills Farm Shop will be hosting more its now legendary Sundowner Sessions, offering a chilled-out evening of music as the sun goes down. Find cocktails, fizz and craft beers, Cambridge’s favourite food trucks and resident DJs spinning tunes to get your weekend off to the best possible start. All this in a beautiful rural setting.

The events take place from 6.30pm, and disperse around half an hour after sunset.

Entry is free.

Book now for the extra special Gogs’ Giant Sundowner – the last one of the summer – taking place 19 September. www.gogmagoghills.com

A NIGHT IN NEVERLAND Cast off the responsibilities of adulthood and spend an evening in Neverland at The Willow Tree’s magical summer party. The beautiful gastropub in Bourn will transform into a Lost Boys’ playground, mermaid lagoon and pirate stronghold on 30 August, inspired by JM Barrie’s Peter Pan. Raid your dressing-up box and channel Peter, John, Wendy, Princess Tiger Lily, Captain Hook or Tinkerbell for this enchanting evening of fun for those who don’t want to grow up. The Willow Tree’s kitchen will be serving three courses of themed canapés (no boring sit-down meals for us!), creative cocktails and perhaps a sprinkle of fairly dust. There’ll be live entertainment, too. So don’t just dream, set your satnav for the second star on the right!

Tickets are £35 and include a welcome cocktail, canapés and entertainment. Takes place from 7pm to 1am. www.thewillowtreebourn.com

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CAMBRIDGESHIRE COOK BOOK LAUNCHES July saw the first copies of The Cambridgeshire Cook Book hit the shelves, packed with recipes from quintessential Cambridge cafés, chefs, restaurants and food and drinks suppliers of all ilks.

The idea for a local cook book was hatched when Meze Publishers got in touch with Gerla de Boer of Cambridge Food Tours. Together, they scoured the local foodie scene and pulled together a list of the places and foodstuffs that truly represent the diversity of our amazing culinary county.

The book aims to offer a cross section of the local gastro scene with input from the likes of Tom’s Cakes, Adilia’s Norfolk Street Bakery, Shelford Deli, The Red Lion at Hinxton and The Medicinal Chef Dale Pinnock, with a foreword by Midsummer House chef, the two-times Michelin-decorated Daniel Clifford. With more than 40 recipes, accompanied by gorgeous photographs, it’s sure to become the local foodie’s bible.

Lisa Pullen of Meze Publishing led the project. Having brought out successful books for the likes of Sheffield and Nottingham, she wanted to do the same for her home county.

“The response has been amazing,” she says. “It was difficult choosing who to include, but I asked friends and I knew the places I liked to go. And I loved coming across places I’d never heard of too.

“Through doing all the research I’ve met a lot of the people involved face to face, so you feel you really get to know everyone – which is what we want to come across in the book. These are lovely people, with fantastic businesses just around the corner from you, and you can pop in and say hi, knowing a bit about them. It’s good, honest food from good, honest people. We hope it’ll help people shop locally and engage a bit more with their local community.”

What does she make of the food scene in Cambridge?

“About five years ago there was a big story about how awful Cambridge’s food scene was,” she replies. “But since then it’s really flourished – from Mark Poynton’s Alimentum to foodPark. What’s so nice about the food scene in Cambridge is that there are a lot of small independents.

“The main reason behind the book was to re-energise the food scene,” she continues. “I think it’s so important nowadays to support local businesses, and what’s so nice in Cambridge is that people are well aware of that.”

Asked about her local favourites, she says: “One of my absolute favourite places is Tom’s Cakes in St Ives. They do the most amazing macarons. Nanna Mexico did a really nice recipe for us too.”

The Cambridgeshire Cook Book, priced £14.95, is available from Waterstones, Cambridge; Amazon; and the businesses featured.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY SAFFRON ICE CREAM CO! Local producers of handmade dairy ice cream and sorbets Saffron Ice Cream Company celebrate their fifth birthday this year.

The first scoops were made in owner Dominic Parry’s kitchen in Saffron Walden, and the company still retains a family-centered approach, operating from a farm and producing small batches to ensure quality. They now sell to more than 100 regular customers across Essex, Cambridgeshire, Hertfordshire, Suffolk and London.

The producers celebrated with the launch of a limited edition dairy ice cream – orange, honey and saffron (the latter used as it’s the spice Saffron Walden was famous for 200 years ago).

Dominic and his team pride themselves on creating a product which celebrates the local area: through buying these luxury products you are not only supporting Saffron Ice Cream, but all the other local producers who support them. “We’ve come a long way in the last five years and would like to thank each and every one of you who has supported us,” says Dominic. www.saffronicecream.co.uk

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CAMBRIDGE'S

BEST BURGERS THE BURGER BANDWAGON HAS WELL AND TRULY ROLLED INTO CAMBRIDGE. BUT WHERE CAN YOU FIND THE BEST PATTIES IN TOWN? BURGER ADDICT NICOLA FOLEY GETS HER MEAT ON

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STEAK & HONOUR Steak & Honour absolutely stormed our (totally unscientific) social media poll on where to find the best burgers in town.

“It’s hands down @steakandhonour – burgers didn’t exist in Cambridge until they showed up on the scene,” gushed @TheHotLights on Twitter, whilst over on Facebook, one reader replied simply: “I’m not even sure why this question is a thing. Anyone who votes for anything other than S&H mustn’t have tried them…

Surely?!” And the tweets and Facebook posts kept on rolling in, with many more of you effusive in your praise for this wellloved mobile burger joint.

So, a lot of love from Edition readers – and S&H are definitely one of the most talked about foodie enterprises in Cambridge – but is the hype justified?

In short, absolutely. Roaming around the streets in their distinctive vintage Citroën H Vans, this gourmet street food outfit has gone from in-the-know hidden gem to bonafide Cambridge legend since they first opened the hatch back in 2012, taking their inspiration from the cream of the London burger scene and bringing it to the street corners and car parks of Cambridge for our eating pleasure. However long the queue (and trust us, it gets big), they serve up consistently excellent burgers, with succulent, flavour packed Riverside beef patties, delightfully squishy brioche buns, crunchy salad, tangy pickles and oozing ketchup and mustard, with the optional extra of gooey American cheese. The thin, crispy and heavily salted fries are also ridiculously moreish, and there’s a range of seasonal sides and desserts on offer too.

Find them at foodPark Cambridge events, and follow them on Twitter to keep up to date on where they’re flipping. www.steakandhonour.co.uk

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HONOURABLE MENTIONS CAMBRIDGE BREW HOUSE This lively King Street pub serves up great burgers in tasty brioche buns, topped with Red Leicester and served with smoked garlic mayo.

Make it dirty for an extra few quid by adding fried egg, onion chutney and barbecue sauce.

BYRON BURGER Found on Bridge Street, this cool chain restaurant offers an irresistible burger menu and awesome selection of sides, including some of the best mac ’n’ cheese in Cambridge.

ROCKERS STEAK HOUSE This Mill Road hang-out is excellent value for money and serves up a great selection of top notch burgers in brioche buns, served with skinny fries. Double up for an extra £4.

GOGO GOGI GUI Totally unique in the city, street food traders GoGo Gogi Gui fuse Western and Korean cuisine in their burgers, to delicious effect.

© Charlotte Griffiths

SMOKEWORKS This joint’s menu never disappoints, and the ‘Buns’ selection is no exception. Stuffed with pickles, slaw and barbecue mayo, options include smoked and pulled beef brisket, pork shoulder and veggies.

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CAMBRIDGE CANTEEN A smart countryside restaurant located down the road in Whittlesford, Cambridge Canteen may have only recently opened its doors, but it’s already gaining fans for its inventive array of supersized burgers.

Inspired by the sights, sounds and tastes of our fair city, each of the burgers is named after a Cambridge University college and packed with locally sourced ingredients.

Sample The Churchill for a wedge of perfectly seasoned sirloin steak with onion and balsamic relish, or try The Wolfson, consisting of locally sourced lean venison with onion and red wine topping. You get to customise your burger, choosing between a toasted brioche, gluten free or Yorkshire pudding bun to encase your patty, as well as a selection of cheeses that includes Gruyère and Emmental to add into the mix. www.cambridgecanteen.com

RHODE ISLAND With its quirky charm and diner style vibe, Cherry Hinton’s Rhode Island is a great spot for authentic Americana style cuisine.

We love the milkshakes, fried chicken and ribs, but it’s the burgers which really steal the show – specifically, the infamous Dirty Cow. In terms of sheer scale, you’d be hard pushed to beat it: a towering behemoth of lip-smacking deliciousness that probably contains your calorie allowance for a month.

But damn is it worth it. A brioche bun (from the local Dovecote Bakery) filled with a juicy beef patty, the burger comes topped with pulled pork, treacle cured bacon, a fried egg, pickles and a stack of crispy onion strings, slathered in homemade BBQ sauce.

Enormous, messy, food coma-inducing and insanely tasty – the Dirty Cow is raising the bar for Cambridge burgers.

If you can handle any side orders, try the courgette fries and homemade slaw. www.rhodeislanduk.com

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BEST FOR VEGGIES CAMBRIDGE BREW HOUSE The vegetarians in our office are unanimous in their praise for the Brew House’s squidgy, satisfying roasted butternut squash and sweet potato patty. It’s in a brioche bun, topped with Red Leicester, and served with garlic mayo and hand cut chips.

BACKSTREET BISTRO This charming restaurant is known for its top quality food and goodsized portions. Its mixed bean and sweetcorn burger is served with a tomato salsa and sweet potato fries.

BILL’S This is the one for ‘squeaky cheese’ (aka halloumi) lovers. Grilled halloumi topped with hummus, roasted peppers, baby gem lettuce, sweet chilli sauce and yoghurt, the whole lot comes in a sesame seed bun with skin-on fries on the side.

STEAK & HONOUR Another namecheck for the mighty S&H. Their Shroom burger is a large flat mushroom in a brioche bun with melty American cheese, gherkin, onion, lettuce and French’s mustard and Heinz ketchup. And it’s yum.

FIVE GUYS As far as I’m concerned, all good burgers have their place, from the handcrafted artisan creations to the quick and dirty guilty pleasures. Whilst still essentially a posh burger joint, Five Guys sits more at the fast food end of the spectrum – and their burgers are both stupidly tasty and utterly addictive.

The chain is a cult brand in the States, allegedly loved by Barack Obama, first opening UK branches a couple of years back to ridiculous queues and much fanfare. We can see why Mr President is a fan. The foil wrapped, prime beef burgers are melt-in-the-mouth tender, and there are a ton of toppings to choose between – and you can cram in as many as you like at no extra cost. We’re reliably informed there are over 250,000 possible ways to order a burger at Five Guys – and once you’ve tried one of these sloppy masterpieces, you’ll likely make it your business to sample each and every variant. The fizzy pop selection is rather exciting too (there’s eight types of Fanta!), and you can pick up great hot dogs too. www.fiveguys.co.uk

BUTCH ANNIE’S This place caused quite a stir when it opened in February, doling out their gourmet burgers for free to hungry shoppers. Canny marketing, since it got half of Cambridge hooked from the get-go.

At Butch Annie’s, which can be found in a basement on Market Street, they have a small but perfectly formed menu which is unashamedly all about the burgers. Every component has been carefully thought out, from the freshly baked, seeded brioche buns to the patties, which range from 28 day aged Hereford beef to the pork burgers made from Iberian black pigs – the treasure of Spanish cuisine. And the precision has paid off: you can taste the quality of a Butch burger as soon as you take a bite, and the flavours are always expertly balanced. The dreamy toppings include garlic mayo, flavoursome aged cheddar, oven roasted tomato and picked gherkin (the Ooh La La), and spiced yoghurt with hot chilli and black bean topping (the Wild Eyed Coyote).

They don’t slack when it comes to sides either, our favourites are the handmade skin-on chips and the onion popcorn. Butch gets extra points for being available on Deliveroo.co.uk, meaning you can enjoy their burgers from the comfort of your own armchair... www.butchannies.com

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© Daisy Dickinson

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ASK THE FOODIE

HEIDI WHITE AKA THE MOVING FOODIE ANSWERS YOUR BURNING ' ' QUESTIONS ON THE CAMBRIDGE FOOD SCENE

SUMMER WINE & TAPAS Sit back and sip Hotel du Vin’s best summer wine, paired with the perfect tapas at their Summer Wine and Tapas event on 26 August. In the plush, elegant Ruinart Room (complete with its own mural), guests will be guided through the wines by in-house sommelier, Vincenzo. Tipples will include a Rioja Alta Reserva Viña Alberdi; Albariño, Condes de Albereí, Rias Baíxas; 2011 Rueda K-Naia; Mar de Frades Brut, Rias Baixas.

Hotel du Vin’s Spanish Summer Wine Tasting takes place at 6pm, tickets are £25 per person. www.hotelduvin.com

Q. WHERE’S GOOD FOR SUSHI IN CAMBRIDGE? I’m guessing this question is prompted by the little triangle of sushi chains currently taking over the Petty Cury/ Sidney Street area of the city centre: YO! Sushi with its conveyor belt and fun and accessible approach to Japanese food; newly opened Wasabi bringing its good reputation for fresh sushi and bento boxes; and the more upmarket, health-focused chain Itsu set to join the city’s ‘sushi strip’ later this month, too. The latter goes beyond the usual sushi sets, selling high-quality, sashimigrade sushi plus fro-yo pots, healthy smoothies and grocery products to take home. However, don’t be fooled by the sudden scramble to fill the city centre with sushi chains; Cambridge’s own independent sushi scene has been slowly growing for years.

Established independents like Japas Sushi on Saxon Street and Teri-Aki on Quayside provide more authenticity and are a reliable choice for eating out or taking away. The cute Japas Sushi restaurant with communal bench seating and open kitchen also offers a local delivery service, and features a nicely sized menu of sushi plus noodle

and rice dishes. I recommend that you book a table and spend some time over your sushi and sake to properly benefit from the restaurant’s intended authentic Izakaya dining experience. The most central spot for sushi, Teri-Aki, is always busy, has a good, bustling buzz, and has been a steadfast favourite amongst local students for the last ten years or so, though it can be pricey. The extensive menu includes gyoza, Japanese curries, noodles, rice, and, of course, a delicious array of sushi.

For takeaway sushi I usually look to U-Sushi on Burleigh Street and Ohayo Sushi Bar on Mill Road: U-Sushi for its rather charming monthly emails containing loyalty offers and discount codes and Ohayo for the very highquality sushi at probably the best prices in town. Ohayo Sushi Bar now also delivers within Cambridge so it’s perfect for a night in, too – hooray! Alas, there’s no mobile sushi joining the booming Cambridge street food scene just yet.

But there is a new pop-up sushi kiosk, Sumo Sushi, in the Grafton Centre open seven days a week serving daily handmade (never machine-made) fresh sushi from Sumo’s Suffolk restaurant.

Sushi is available to take away, if you’re passing during a shopping trip, or you can sit up at the cute little bar and pretend you’re visiting a typical food kiosk on the streets of Japan.

For more top tips on eating and drinking in Cambridge, visit Heidi’s blog www.movingfoodie.com Got a question for the Moving Foodie? Tweet us at @cambsedition or @TheMovingFoodie using the tag: #askthefoodie

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FOOD WORDS DAISY DICKINSON & CHARLOTTE GRIFFITHS

#MacNCheeseCrawlCam @daisyduked @photolotte

A MAC ’N’

CHEESE CRAWL OF CAMBRIDGE Bloggers and mac ’n’ cheese aficionados Charlotte Griffiths and Daisy Dickinson are on a hunt to find the best mac ’n’ cheese in Cambridge. This month, they sample the cheesy delights on offer at Byron Burger, CAU and the Salisbury Arms – here’s the verdict…

THE SALISBURY ARMS DAISY SAYS: “First stop on our mac ’n’ cheese crawl of Cambridge took us to the recently revamped Salisbury Arms. Offered as a main meal, their ‘pot’ was a generous helping of rigatoni muddled in intensely creamy sauce, with a lava-like hot and bubbling top.”

THE SALISBURY ARMS

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CHARLOTTE SAYS: “Salisbury Arms’ was magnificent: a properly-sized main course which was ideal for sharing between two normal people, or equally, exactly right if you’d had a terrible day at work and needed to physically clamber into a soothing bath of cheese and pasta. The barman welcomed our mission with open arms, popping back to our table to get the verdict.

“Served scaldingly hot from the pub’s pizza oven, this mac had perfectly bite-sized pasta and optional bacon – which I personally think has no place in a mac ’n’ cheese (but then I’m a purist). It also beat the law of diminishing returns which normally hobbles a mac ’n’ cheese experience: the nicely-cheesy sauce thickened somewhat as it cooled, which made the eating experience actually improve as you excavated downwards to the lowest levels.”

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FOOD

HOT TIP

CAU DAISY SAYS: “Next stop was CAU where thanks to a little live tweeting we’d been told of their truffled side dish. Arriving in an individual rustic dish, the sweet aroma of truffles came through instantly upon lifting the dish’s lid. Breaking through the crumb topping revealed a light sauce that covered mini mac pieces.”

If you’re conducting your own mac ’n’ cheese crawl, you really don’t even need to order one each – even if it is a side dish. You’re probably not going to go hungry.

CHARLOTTE SAYS: “We turned up at CAU without a reservation but the front of house staff thought our request to ‘just have man ’n’ cheese’ was brilliant, and immediately sat us at a prime seat in the window where passers-by could watch the quest in progress. CAU’s effort is a side dish, embellished with truffle oil: we’d had a Twitter tip-off that this mac wasn’t as truffley as it claimed to be, but when the waiter lifted the mini lid off the cast-iron dish, a whopping whack of delicious truffle scent rose above our table. Mini, soup-pasta style tubes and a well-judged sauce consistency, plus that excellent truffle fragrance, but the crumb topping could have been a little crispier. Nice presentation too: the waiter dug a spoon deep into each mini dish before leaving our table.”

CAU

CHARLOTTE: 7/10 DAISY: 6/10

BYRON BURGER DAISY SAYS: “Tipped as being uber traditional and Americana-style, what ended up being the last mac of the night was from Byron Burger. Delivered with a no-fuss approach this side dish used classic macaroni pasta with a rich and tangy sauce, topped with melted cheese.”

BYRON BURGER

CHARLOTTE: 8.5 /10 DAISY: 6/10

CHARLOTTE SAYS: “This Mac was again a side dish, but realistically sized for accompanying a massive burger (or washing down two previous mac ’n’ cheeses if you’re on a ridiculous food mission). Byron was my personal favourite: traditional long macaroni with a gooey, Cheddar-ish cheese topping and a sauce that expertly coated each tube of pasta. I’d have liked a little more colour on the top, but it didn’t stop me tucking in.

“However, if you need scale, our current recommendation is to head to the Salisbury Arms. By this point, our keen tweeting had attracted the foodies of Cambridge, who were piping up with suggestions for other macs to add to our map. As each rolled in, we sank a little lower in our chairs and clutched our bellies. Three macs seemed to be the charm – but we’re already excited about #ReturnoftheMac: our second attempt to find the best mac ’n’ cheese in Cambridge…"

Stay tuned to the next issue for more on the cheesy exploits of these two hungry girls, who are already planning their second venture ( #ReturnoftheMac).

Got any suggestions? Join the discussion on Instagram and Twitter, tagging: #MacNCheeseCrawlCam via @cambsedition or tweet @daisyduked @photolotte

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EATING OUT

WORDS NICOLA FOLEY IMAGES DAISY DICKINSON

BREAD & MEAT NICOLA FOLEY TAKES A TRIP DOWN TO ‘MEAT STREET’ FOR A TASTY LUNCH ambridge isn’t slacking these days in the sandwich department, but those served up at Bread & Meat are held on something of a pedestal by local foodies, and rightly so. Located in the heart of the city centre on Bene’t Street, this hip little eaterie can be found in the building formerly home to Benet’s Café. It first opened for business last October, joining a clutch of other fantastic independent cafés and restaurants in what’s fast becoming known as the new foodie quarter of Cambridge (known as Meat Street for the heavy emphasis on meaty dishes served up by the likes of Bread & Meat, Pint Shop and Smokeworks).

Behind the venture are Simon Cheney and his wife Michelle, who, keen to escape the corporate rat race, had long harboured ambitions to set up a restaurant together.

Their search for the perfect premises was a long one, but they both knew they’d struck gold when they eventually happened across number 4, Bene’t Street.

On the Monday lunchtime of my visit, Cambridge was unseasonably drizzly and grey, making the cosy glow of Bread & Meat even more appealing than usual. There’s something immediately welcoming about the place, with its retro red and white tiles, vintage style furniture and smiley staff.

Grabbing a table at the window (FYI, one of the best spots in Cambridge for people watching), my lunch date and I perused the menu. Bread & Meat is focused in its offering, with just a small selection of gourmet sandwiches, the odd salad and soup, and a few sides to choose between (we didn’t try it but loved the look of the poutine – a Canadian comfort food which consists of chips, gravy and cheese curds).

First up, I sampled the house speciality, the porchetta – which sits impressively by the counter and fills the café with the delicious aroma of roast pork. Traditionally, this Italian dish (which hails from the Lazio region) uses the body of a whole pig that’s been deboned, stuffed and roasted. The Bread & Meat take uses just the middle of

the animal – tender and juicy – which is slow-roasted overnight and rolled with garlic, rosemary, thyme, sage and white pepper.

The chunks of roasted meat are succulent and full of flavour, topped with light-as-air crackling and served with a deliciously piquant salsa verde that cuts through the fatty meat, adding a freshness.

On the recommendation of owner Simon, I also sampled the staff’s current favourite: the jerk chicken ciabatta. Another triumph, the charred flavour of the chicken with its lip-smacking marinade had a kick of heat, nestled in with a generous heap of creamy homemade slaw. It came in a freshly homebaked ciabatta, which masterfully struck the balance of slightly chewy crust and a spongy, airy interior. Clearly a simple dish but also one which could so easily have

EVERY DISH HERE IS PERFECTLY HONED AND CONSISTENTLY EXCELLENT been let down by a single component being slightly off (ciabatta too hard, chicken too dry, wrong balance of ingredients, etc), but Bread & Meat totally nail it.

Given the name of the place, you might justifiably assume that the options for my vegetarian dining partner would be scant, but there’s a few solid choices on the day of our visit. She opted for the roast vegetable ciabatta, which came loaded with herby, oily

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Mediterranean veg and hunks of tangy feta, drizzled in Bread & Meat’s salsa verde.

We didn’t expect to be blown away by our shared side order of wedges, but again the café has elevated this simple side dish into something to write home about. Made with Desiree potatoes, the huge hand-cut wedges are steamed, then cooled, cooked again, making for a perfectly squidgy texture, then seasoned to perfection – served with a dollop of homemade garlic aioli. I implore you to try these and tell me you can find better in Cambridge.

Sadly we didn’t have room for a pudding, but if you want something sweet you can choose between treats like brownies, pastries and Eton Mess. There’s an excellent selection of craft beers and wines too.

Overall, I was yet again impressed by Bread & Meat; their concise vision and the panache with which they execute it. The menu is small, which means less choice, but also, crucially, that each and every offering is perfectly honed and consistently excellent.

They get extra points for being available for home delivery on Deliveroo.co.uk too, and the café is now open late till 9pm Tuesdays to Saturdays, making it the perfect place for an evening pit stop, perhaps before you meander down the road to the Corn Exchange for a show or gig. Highly recommended. www.breadandmeat.co.uk

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FOOD

WORDS ALEX RUSHMER

Around the world in 80 ingredients WITH THE HELP OF A NEW KITCHEN AND A STORE CUPBOARD BRIMMING WITH EXOTIC INGREDIENTS THIS MONTH CHEF ALEX , RUSHMER IS REDSCOVERING THE JOY OF HOME COOKING 48 | Cambridge Edition | May 2015

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FOOD

while ago I wrote a piece about spice rack essentials. In that I included a few slightly more exotic ingredients for the braver chef, one for whom pasta and passata are delicious but perhaps a little pedestrian. These were by no means offthe-wall crazy ingredients but a few little shining lights that can help enhance your cooking. This month I’m taking things a little further.

Inspired by a brand-new kitchen (I’ve essentially been camping for the first half of this year and as a result our eating habits at home have been dire. On the plus side the local takeaways have posted record profits for quarters one and two of 2015) and oodles of cupboard space, I’ve rediscovered the sheer joy of home cooking. There is no pressure, no timescales, no deadlines – merely the desire to eat great food inspired by countries all over the world, and in order to do so I’ve been snapping up ingredients at quite a rate.

A quick glance over a shelf reveals a jar of gapi – a pungent fermented fish paste from Thailand that is an essential addition for any Thai curry, kechap manis – a thick sweet soy sauce from Indonesia that is great with noodles tossed through with fresh ginger and spring onion, datu puti – a sweet vinegar made from Filipino sugarcane which is great for helping achieve the balance of flavour necessary for south-east Asian cooking. Also present are a jar of pickled Habanero peppers from

WE ARE FORTUNATE TO LIVE IN AN AREA WHICH IS RICH IN DIVERSITY AND CULINARY TRADITIONS Mexico that I’ve been wantonly adding to burritos and a packet of spicy Korean paste made with red chillies and plenty (and I mean plenty!) of garlic which is one of the most delicious things that I have ever tasted.

I am currently in possession of at least six different varieties of rice, which is just

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about enough if you want to ensure you have the right ingredients for a risotto, a vindaloo, sushi, congee, fried rice and a paella, not to mention a bag of blue long grain rice I imported from Bangkok six years ago and haven’t had the heart to throw out or the stomach to eat. When it comes to noodles, again, there is a rich and varied selection, but if we get a sudden hankering for pad Thai or pho (both of which have been cooked in the last ten days) then there won’t be any frustrating trips to the Asian supermarket.

There is, of course, plenty more: tahini, orange blossom water, bean curd paste, kimchi – and the rate at which the cupboards expand is thrilling and exciting and makes me hungry to cook and experiment; to read new books, try new dishes and see where in the world I can be transported to in my very own kitchen.

We are fortunate to live in an area which is rich in diversity and culinary traditions – where these ingredients and expertise are readily available. Get out there and make the most of it.

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W NI IN A GH G T RE OU A T! T

COMPETITION

WIN A NIGHT OUT AT GOGS GIANT SUNDOWNER! Festival season might be pretty much over, but we’re offering one lucky reader and five friends the chance to join in a huge outdoor party and bid farewell to the summer in style.

On 19 September, the Gog Magog Hills Farm Shop will be hosting its last Sundowner Session of the summer – and it’ll be bigger and better than ever. Gather high above the city for this mini festival with delicious local food, drinks and dancing under the stars.

There are some fantastic all-star DJs lined up (their regulars also play the Secret Garden Party), with live music from funky jazzmen, the Hackney Colliery Band, who bring their unique brass spin to modern classics, and the CC Smugglers, championed by BBC 6 Music. Plus, don’t miss Hakbrayne’s Comedy in a Camper Van!

Food superstars on the night will include Guerilla Kitchen, burger kings Steak & Honour, south-east Asian specialists Jalan Jalan, the newly launched Provenance Kitchen and the Churros Bar, providing something sweet for afters.

The Gogs’ Sundowner Sessions have become a hot ticket in town for lovers of great food and music. Last year’s event sold out completely. The festival gets underway at 5pm, running through till 1am.

This fantastic prize includes six tickets (worth £30 each), three bottles of Prosecco and six dinner vouchers, plus a gift from the Farm Shop.

To be in with a chance of winning this fantastic prize, visit www.cambsedition.co.uk.

For more information about Gog Magog Hills Farm Shop and their events, visit www.gogmagoghills.com.

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FARM SHOP | BUTCHERY | KITCHEN | CAFÉ | DELI

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RECIPES

WORDS & IMAGES STELLA PEREIRA

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is a cook, cake designer and artist, originally from Portugal and now living in Cambridge.

Visit her website at www.littlecakepot.com

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RECIPES

PASTRY • 120g plain flour • 80g ground almonds • 40g icing sugar • pinch of salt • 100g unsalted butter, chilled and cubed • 1 egg yolk

www.littlecakepot.com

In a large bowl, sift flour, ground almonds, icing sugar and salt. Add the butter and rub with your fingertips until the mixture resembles a fine crumb.

Add the yolk and gently mix until a dough forms. Dust with flour, wrap in cling film and chill for at least one hour.

FILLING • 300g pitted cherries FRANGIPANE • 100g butter • 125g golden caster sugar • 2 medium sized eggs • 125g ground almonds • 10g plain flour • zest of a lemon Whisk butter and sugar on medium to high speed until pale and fluffy. Beat in eggs, on low speed, until well incorporated. Fold in ground almonds, flour and lemon zest. Cover and chill until needed.

ASSEMBLY • Preheat oven to 180°C (fan) or 200°C (conventional) and line tartlet tins.

• Remove dough from fridge. Press gently with fingertips into a flat disc.

• Dust a piece of baking paper with flour. Place dough on the baking paper.

With a rolling pin, gently roll it as thinly as possible. Cut out discs with a cookie cutter. Press them gently into the tins, ensuring they overflow slightly. Cut off excess with sharp knife. Spoon frangipane into each tartlet.

Place a few cherries into each tartlet and press until submerged. Cut out leaves to create tartlet borders. Chill in the fridge for 15 minutes.

• Place tartlets onto a baking sheet, turn the oven down to 150°C/170°C and bake at for 15-20 minutes, or until golden.

• Remove from oven, set aside for 10 minutes. Remove from tin and allow to cool on rack. Serve with chilled custard or ice cream.

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RECIPES

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RECIPES

www.littlecakepot.com

Meatballs with broad beans & chorizo • 2tbsp olive oil • 2 cloves garlic, sliced • 1 medium shallot, sliced finely • 1 chorizo • 200ml vegetable stock • 300g broad beans, double podded • Salt & freshly ground black pepper • Mint MEATBALLS • 400g minced pork • 1/2 shallot, finely chopped • 1 clove garlic, minced • 1tbsp fennel fronds, chopped For the meatballs, place all ingredients in a large bowl, mix thoroughly and roll into small balls. Chill until needed.

In a large pan, gently heat olive oil. Add garlic, shallot, whole chorizo and salt, stir until shallot is soft and translucent. Add stock and bring to a gentle simmer.

Gently place meatballs into simmering stock. Simmer for 10 to 15 minutes, or until meatballs are cooked. Remove chorizo and slice diagonally. Return to pot.

Add broad beans and cook on low heat for 10 minutes. Remove from heat. Add salt and black pepper to taste. Throw in a few mint leaves. Serve with crusty bread.

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FAMILY

ARTY CRAFTS HOLIDAY WORKSHOPS

HOW WINNIE-THE-POOH IS HELPING SAVE THE HONEY BEE Many a column inch has been devoted to the decline of the honey bee in recent years, with lots of organisations launching campaigns to help save this most integral and historic of species. The British Beekeepers Association (BBKA) has recently launched a unique Friends of the Honey Bee campaign – inspired by Winnie-the-Pooh.

This takes the form of an illustrated guide highlighting ten fun, simple activities for families to do together over the summer in the great outdoors to help our honey bees. It stars Winnie-the-Pooh and friends, and contains a brand-new story, Return to the Hundred Acre Wood, with drawings by Mark Burgess.

The BBKA annual study surveyed 900 British beekeepers, selected at random, to establish the impact that last winter had on honey bee colonies. Nationally, colony losses were 14.5% last winter, continuing the declines observed over the last three years. The extinction of bees would have drastic consequences on the planet: Albert Einstein famously remarked that “mankind will not survive the honey bees’ disappearance for more than five years.”

This year’s loss rose by more than 50% in comparison with last year (9.6% in 2013/14), and despite not being as high as the decline rate in 2012/13 (33.8%), the results show that our bees are still very much in danger. Poor and variable weather, changes to habitat, diseases and pests such as varroa, plus starvation due to lack of honey stored in the hive are all thought to have contributed to the decline – underlining the importance of plenty of good nectar and pollen forage being available for honey bees, throughout the year.

Although most British adults surveyed were aware that honey bees are on the decline, two-thirds had little or no idea of what they can do to help, according to research. Which is something this guide aims to change.

Commenting on the partnership, Nicole Pearson, associate publisher at Egmont Publishing said: “Winnie-the-Pooh is famed for his love of honey, so who better to encourage families to get out and about and take part in fun activities that can help support our honey bees? We’re very excited to be working with the BBKA to support such a worthwhile cause.”

For more information on supporting the honey bee and to download the bee-friendly guide inspired by Winnie-the-Pooh and friends visit www.friendsofthehoneybee.com.

If you know a certain little someone who loves making or drawing things, nurture their creative streak with an Art Holiday Workshop. There are several running at The Scout Centre, Newnham, this August priced at £34 per day (minimum booking two days). The classes run 9am-3.30pm and will include introductions to major art movements like surrealism and even Manga. Students will learn about van Gogh and traditional techniques at painting and drawing masterclasses. All art materials are included: just bring a packed lunch.

Suitable for children aged 5-12. www.artycrafts.co.uk

ROBIN HOOD England’s favourite outlaw will swap Sherwood Forest for Milton Country Park to entertain families on 27 August. Performed by Cambridge Touring Theatre, Robin Hood The Musical features colourful costumes, daring heroes, dastardly villains and hilarity aplenty. Tickets cost £9 adults, £7 children under 16 and £28 for a family ticket. It starts at 3pm, in the fabulous, outdoor woodland setting.

Feel free to come along in your own medieval-inspired fancy dress.

There’s also a drama workshop (priced £3) before the show at 1.30pm for budding thespians, aged between five and ten. www.cambridgetouringtheatre.co.uk

Just three ways to help the honey bee: Plant a window box Buy local honey Build a bee habitat – see online for details

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LISTINGS CHECK OUT LOCAL EVENTS ONLINE

cambsedition.co.uk

A ROUND-UP OF EVENTS IN AND AROUND CAMBRIDGESHIRE THIS AUGUST 1 AUGUST SIR WILLARD WHITE & FRIENDS Time: 7.30pm Location: West Road Concert Hall Price: £30 (£23 concessions, £15 students) Description: Charismatic bassbaritone Sir Willard White leads the finale of Cambridge Summer Music Festival. Expect Vaughan Williams, Britten and Gershwin. westroad.org 1 AUGUST STEAMPUNK IN CAMBRIDGE Time: 10.30am Location: Museum of Technology Price: £5 Description: Dress up and get down to this fitting location for a festival of all things Steampunk.

Expect entertainment, tea and cake, and a live-action game of Cluedo! Find out more information on Facebook.

2 ROYSTON KITE FESTIVAL Time: 10.30am-4.30pm Location: Royston Price: £2.50 per adults (children free) Description: Climb to the top of Therfield Heath, Royston, for family entertainment, kite making and flying, a fun fair, food, drink and more. roystonkitefestival.com

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GOTRI CAMBRIDGE Time: 6pm Location: Bottisham Village College Price: £10 Description: Take part in a mini triathlon in partnership with Cambridge Triathlon Club. Consists of a 150m swim, 3km cycle and 1km run. www.entrycentral.com

3 AUGUST KNIGHTS AND DRAGONS Time: 11am-2pm Location: Great St Mary’s Church Price: Free Description: A cultural, crafty family workshop inspired by medieval tales of yore. Hunt for dragons and create your own personal coat of arms.

Part of Summer at the Museums – read more on page 28. cam.ac.uk 10 AUGUST DARWIN’S DELIGHTS Time: 11am-1pm, 2-4pm Location: Whipple Museum Price: Free Description: Enter the wondrous world of Charles Darwin when the Museum of Zoology visits the Whipple Museum, and learn about the specimens he collected and the instruments he used over 100 years ago. Don’t forget to make your own microscope slide!

Suitable for all ages; the event is part of Summer at the Museums. cam.ac.uk

12 NATURE SAFARI Time: 10am-midday Location: Wandlebury Country Park Price: £6.50 per child (adults free) Description: Bring the family for a prowl around the woods and meadows looking for plants, birds and animals.

Bring a drink and a snack and meet at the Stable Rooms. cambridgeppf.org 14 AUGUST SPANDAU BALLET Time: 8.30pm (approx) Location: Newmarket Racecourse Price: From £25 Description: Since forming 35 years ago, Spandau Ballet has given us epic synth pop hit after epic synth pop hit, and they return to the Racecourse after a stellar performance in 2010. newmarkettickets.thejockeyclub. co.uk

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LISTINGS

23 YOUNGBLOOD BRASS BAND Time: 8pm Location: Cambridge Junction Price: £16 Description: A punked-up brass ensemble from Wisconsin, Youngblood Brass Band always put on a lively show. A unique sound worth hearing. junction.co.uk

20 OH! I DO LIKE TO BE BESIDE THE SEASIDE Time: 2-5pm Location: Burwell Museum and Windmill Price: £2 per child Description: Hop aboard the Burwell bus and enjoy a day by the beach – Edwardian style! With a Punch and Judy show, oldfashioned sweets, a sand park and seaside selfies. burwellmuseum.org.uk

21-24 AUGUST WADFEST Time: 9am Location: Wood Green, Godmanchester Price: £35 (adult camping ticket) Description: A sci-fi inspired festival for all the family that features games, a talent contest, hunt the books, smack the penguin and a walking masquerade. Come along and find out more! woodgreen.org.uk 22 AUGUST JUNKYARD: HOUSE PARTY Time: 4pm-midnight Location: Cambridge Junction Price: £8 Description: An immersive party featuring live bands and DJs, spoken word and arts. See the Junction’s stages and foyers transform into kitchens and lounges for this epic house party. junction.co.uk

23 SAVOY JAZZ Time: 3-5pm Location: Jesus Green Price: Free Description: Relax and enjoy some chilled-out live music as part of Jazz & Brass in the Parks. Bring your friends and a picnic or just stop off on your way into town. cambridgelivetrust.co.uk

24-29 AUGUST AND THEN THERE WERE NONE Time: 7.45pm Location: Arts Theatre Price: from £15 Description: For their tenth anniversary, the Agatha Christie Theatre Company present this delicious mystery starring Dalziel and Pascoe’s Colin Buchanan and Duty Free’s Neil Stacy. cambridgeartstheatre.com 28 AUGUST PORTLAND COMEDY CLUB Time: 8.45pm Location: The Portland Arms Price: £5.50-£7.50 (door) Description: Top acts from the comedy scene – there’s bound to be something for everyone. theportlandarms.co.uk 29 AUGUST ST NEOTS DRAGON BOAT RACE & SUMMER FESTIVAL Time: Midday-9pm Location: Regatta Meadow Price: Free Description: Live entertainment, market stalls, a funfair and Dragon Boat race on the Great Ouse river in St Neots, culminating in a fireworks display at 9pm. stneots-tc.gov.uk

- 5September

AVENUE Q Time: 7.45pm (see website for variations) Location: Arts Theatre Price: from £15 Description: An outrageous puppet-based musical with heart, charm and naughty songs. Winner of three Tony Awards. cambridgeartstheatre.com

29-31 AUGUST FENLAND COUNTRY FAIR Time: 9am-5.30pm Location: Stow-cum-Quy Price: £10 (children under 11 free) Description: A traditional country fair with falconry, vintage cars and farm machinery, rural crafts and dog shows. Don’t miss the beer tent and local refreshments. fenlandfairs.com

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GREAT DAYS OUT WORDS JENNY SHELTON

Make the most of the summer and get out and about exploring some of our area’s most beautiful places and fun attractions. We’ve rounded up our favourite day trip destinations: so chuck your things in the car, grab your favourite people and go enjoy!

Central

JESUS GREEN LIDO A 91m-long outdoor pool with a café, ping pong tables and plenty of space for sunbathing, this is surely the best place to cool off in Cambridge. It opened in 1923 so you’ll be part of a long line of Cambridge bathers who’ve whiled away an afternoon here. £4.30 entry (£2.30 child).

BOTANIC GARDEN Laze on the lawns, grab some cake in the café or study the hothouses at this tropical garden paradise. On the 23rd, there’s a talk by the curator about how plants adapt to the world’s harshest environments; 11am/2pm, £5 (£4.50 conc, under 16s free). www.botanic.cam.ac.uk SCIENCE CENTRE This small, modern and interactive museum is a great place to ignite young imaginations with a passion for science.

There’s a focus on the extraterrestrial on 7 August, when Dr Helen Mason of Cambridge University reveals incredible photos of the earth, sun and stars as taken from space. 12-12.30pm. www.cambridgesciencecentre.org

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GREAT DAYS OUT

North

ELY Pay a visit to the historic, diminutive city of Ely with its sparkling riverside walks, beautiful old buildings, independent shops and the towering 12th century cathedral – also known as The Ship of the Fens. There are organ recitals at 5.15pm on Sundays and a market in the market square on Thursdays and Saturdays. www.elycathedral.org WICKEN FEN Explore the Cambridgeshire countryside as it would have looked hundreds of years ago. Great for wildlife spotting, canoeing or paddleboarding – even wild camping, if you fancy a night under the stars. Also home to wild Konik ponies; a rare breed which was re-introduced in 2001. Entry is £6.45 (£3.15 child). www.nationaltrust.org.uk/wicken-fen

THE RAPTOR FOUNDATION Meet magnificent hawks, owls, falcons and eagles at this heaven for bird lovers in Woodhurst, near St Ives. Time your visit to see a flying display (noon, 2pm & 4pm in summer), or book your own personal flying or photography experience. There’s a children’s play area and a tea room as well. Entry is £5.50 (£3.50 child). www.raptorfoundation.org.uk

DENNY ABBEY Now owned by English Heritage, Denny Abbey was once a retirement home for elderly Knights Templar (nope, we didn’t make that up). It’s a wonderful building to explore, and sits alongside a Farmland Museum narrating fenland life through history. Over the late August bank holiday, meet the Tudors (10.30am-5pm). Entry £5 (£4 concessions, £3 child). www.dennyfarmlandmuseum.org.uk

MILTON COUNTRY PARK Not far from the city, this tranquil haven, with café and play areas, is a great summer destination. Walk round the lakes, and don’t miss the Summer Smash on 2 August. Free entry. www.miltoncountrypark.org

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GREAT DAYS OUT

South

GRANTCHESTER MEADOWS Walk, punt or cycle down to Grantchester for cream tea at The Orchard, a pint in the Red Lion and a scenic walk along the riverside. Plus wild swimming opportunities for the more adventurous.

WANDLEBURY COUNTRY PARK Woodlands and meadowland just outside the city centre. There’s always lots going on, including nature safaris, pond dipping and archery (5 August) for the little ‘uns. £3 parking. www.cambridgeppf.org SHEPRETH WILDLIFE PARK A small but perfectly formed wildlife park with a variety of animals, birds, amphibians and insects. Join in their Tiger Day celebrations on 4 August and it’s Hedgehog Day on the 31st. Entry is £11.95 (£9.95 child). www.sheprethwildlifepark.co.uk IWM DUXFORD Marvel at the spectacular aircraft at IWM Duxford’s First World War aerodrome, featuring Lancaster bombers, legendary Spitfires and the Concorde. See these marvellous machines up close, find out about their inner workings and their impact on the world. There’s a Summer Car Show on 2 August and Meet the Veterans 16-20 August, plus summer holiday activities for kids all month. www.iwm.org.uk

AUDLEY END HOUSE This imposing, 17th century stately home near Saffron Walden offers plenty both inside and out. The Victorian service wing is especially worth a visit, as is the miniature railway, while the grounds and walled gardens are currently at their full-bloom best. www.english-heritage.org.uk/ AudleyEnd SAFFRON WALDEN Take a stroll around the pretty Bridge End Gardens in the town centre, then explore Saffron Walden’s winding streets and colourful timber buildings. Great antique shops, tea rooms and a Saturday market.

KNEBWORTH HOUSE Watch open air theatre (The Three Musketeers, 13 August) or go to the Country Show (15-16 August) at this imposing Gothic pile over the Hertfordshire border. We rather like the sound of their Summer Jousting on the 9th. www.knebworthhouse.com

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© Jaso

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West

WIMPOLE HALL A beautiful red brick mansion set in sprawling parkland, there’s also a working farm with rare breeds of animals. Take a look at our Arts section for details of their open-air theatre shows this summer. Entry is £17.50 (£10 child). www.nationaltrust.org.uk/wimpoleestate THE LODGE Visit the RSPB’s stunning headquarters in Sandy and you’ll find a picturesque nature reserve with five miles of trails to explore. £5 entry (free to members). www.rspb.org.uk

East

NEWMARKET RACES Put on your glad rags and place your bets! See online for details of Summer Saturdays, Afternoon Racing (28 August) and Newmarket Nights, featuring live music from Tom Jones, Spandau Ballet and McBusted. Have a flutter, then let your hair down! newmarket.thejockeyclub.co.uk THETFORD FOREST The largest lowland pine forest in Britain, Thetford offers beautiful wooded trails and is home to treetop adventure, GoApe, with its zip wires and cargo nets.

Alternatively, rent a Segway to cover more ground. There’s a kids play area too.

Entry to the forest is free. www.forestry.gov.uk/thetfordforestpark

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LOCAL LIVES

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LOCAL LIVES

tales from the WORDS JENNY SHELTON IMAGES ROGER PAYNE

Jenny Shelton meets Cambridge’s narrowboat community to find out what life is really like afloat SIGN UP TO THE EDIT NEWSLETTER AT CAMBSEDITION.CO.UK

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LOCAL LIVES

hen a new neighbour moves in next door, you might stop to say hello over the front gate; you might even pop round with cake if you’re that kind of person. Amy and James went that bit further. When the new vessel moored beside their 1930s narrowboat in Cambridge became untied and drifted off early one morning, they launched a rescue mission to return their neighbour’s craft safely to the bank.

“We saw it drift off into the distance so we leapt out of bed, rescued it and put it back,” recalls Amy. “There had been some bad flooding. Every time there’s a flood there are lots of boats to rescue.”

The boat adrift was Emma and Laura’s narrowboat, Rebecca. Neither were on board at the time: the boat needed some work doing so they hadn’t yet moved in.

Now, however, they’re happily settled in as part of a unique community in Cambridge – and triple-check their knots every night.

“This has been our first year; I think we’re the newest on the river,” says Laura.

“It wasn’t my dream to live on a boat – that was Emma’s. I had a few misgivings, if I’m honest. Winter was… interesting,” she laughs. “Every day we’d figure out where a different draught was coming from. Again, our neighbour James helped us sort out the heating so we’ll be ready for it next year.”

Having lived by the river for some years, I was curious about the boat community along this picturesque stretch of the Cam. Who lived there and why? How spacious were the boats? What were the toilets like?

“People always ask whether it gets cold in winter,” says Amy. “It does – if you don’t

People think we're just a bunch of hippies and dropouts, but we've got an architect, PhD students... turn the heating on. But a house gets cold in winter if you don’t heat it! Mostly it’s quite cosy because it’s quite a small space.”

She and James, a young couple working and studying in Cambridge, have invited me on board their historic narrowboat – not barge – Willow. At 72ft long it’s one of the largest on the river, and quite splendid.

“Originally it would have been horse drawn, carrying cargo between Gloucester and Birmingham,” she shows me a black & white photo from the 1940s. “It’s really exciting to live on a boat with so much history. We feel like custodians, not owners.”

Adds James: “Willow was a very good find. We’d looked for a while for a historic

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boat like this. We prefer them; plus, they have lots more space.”

Down in the hull, the wood-panelled walls are lined with antique maps (and LOTS of books), the bathroom has an antique free-standing porcelain sink, while in the bedroom a 1920s wardrobe and folding bed have been perfectly customised to fit the space. It’s romantic: like college digs from Porterhouse Blue, only floating.

It’s a diverse community, says Amy: “There’s a real mix of careers among us.

People think we’re just a bunch of hippies and dropouts, but we’ve got an architect, PhD students, people in marketing… even a tree surgeon.”

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LOCAL LIVES

This is Nick, who lives aboard the neighbourhood’s smallest craft with Beckee (who keeps her going-out shoes under the sink) and 22-month old son Teddy. They’ve lived there over three years, drawn by the freedom and simplicity of the lifestyle.

“On a boat you’re more in touch with everything,” says Nick. “Living on a 40ft tube, with big windows either side, your life really is governed by the seasons. Winters are spent inside making sure the burner doesn’t go out – we’re already stocking up on wood for this year. Then in summer our solar panels give us loads of electricity and you don’t need the burner, and everyone’s out and about. It is such a beautiful spot.

You’ve got that avenue of lime trees that takes you right into the centre of town…

We’re very lucky.”

“From our mooring you can just about see the top of King’s College Chapel,” adds James. “And when you consider there are houses around here that fetch over £1 million…”

Is it cheap to live on a boat?

“It’s ridiculously cheap,” Amy admits.

“We pay a licence to moor on City Council land and a licence to be on the river, but we don’t pay council tax.” (The mooring fee is roughly the same as council tax).

“If you’re burning wood that you can get for free then winter can be quite cheap – though coal will cost you several hundred pounds per winter.”

But before you all rush out and buy a vintage narrowboat, there’s more news.

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LOCAL LIVES

“Cambridge is probably the only place I know of that has a waiting list,” Amy explains. “It’s closed now, but it used to be about three years. Because it’s such an affordable place to live, right in the city centre. By living on a boat I’ve had the freedom of having my own place from a younger age than if I’d wanted my own flat.

And I’ll be mortgage free next year.”

Laura moved from a three-bedroom house (“with lots of amazing Scandinavian furniture – now in storage!”) and says she’s learning as she goes along.

“What I’ve found about living on a boat is that you can’t do something unless you’ve got the money for it upfront. In a house, you can run a tap for a week if you want and the bill won’t come in for a month. On a boat, you can’t have a shower if you haven’t got any gas. And the water always runs out when you’re in the middle of something. Mine ran out when I was dyeing my hair, and once while we were eating Christmas dinner.”

Most of the boats are powered by gas – with gas-fired hobs and ovens – so cooking isn’t a problem, while some generate electricity from solar panels.

Sophie, a teacher, lives on perhaps the most uniquely beautiful boat of the lot.

“I wanted my boat not to look like a boat, but like a little flat,” she explains, and she’s succeeded. From the bright, cosy living area (wood-burning stove, Farrow & Ball walls and ditsy bird-print curtains), it leads on to a modern, colourful kitchen, bathroom, bedroom with beautiful

patchwork quilt bedspread and even a separate dressing room with gorgeous chest of drawers upcycled with chalk paint.

There’s just one thing missing: a television.

“It’s amazing how much time you have when you don’t have a TV,” says Sophie.

“I don’t miss it at all. I download the programmes I want to watch to my laptop.”

Because the boats have flat bottoms, and sit stoutly in the water, there isn’t much movement on board. But there is tilting.

“When I first moved in I hated the fact that it tilted,” says Sophie, “and kept putting a bit of chalk on the side and watching it roll, fuming. I must have had everything balanced wrong.”

“If you put a five litre bottle of something on the wrong side of our boat it tilts,” laughs Beckee.

Amy adds: “On our old boat, I knew when the water tank needed filling because I’d have to walk uphill to bed. And cakes

It's such an affordable place to live, right in the city centre always come out the oven a bit thicker at one side than the other.”

One topic of conversation that’s guaranteed to come up amongst boaters, I discover, is poo.

Says Beckee: “We empty out our toilet once a week, but it depends on the size of your septic tank.”

“I miss porcelain toilets,” Quinn reflects, who lives with Melissa on Lucky Duck, moored the other side of Nick and Beckee.

“It is THE single most talked-about topic of conversation among boaters,” says James smiling.

The boaters recently set up a Neighbourhood Watch group to discuss any issues affecting their community. Do they get much trouble from the public?

“We have had one or two idiots untying the boats,” admits Amy. “It’s rare, but it does happen. And most of us move away for Midsummer Fair.”

What about the rowers – are relations between the two communities as frosty as

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LOCAL LIVES

is often reported? Says Amy: “They do hit us, but you simply learn to live with it. Plus we’ve had loads of rowers move onto the boats, so there is a lot of crossover – James and I both row.”

“The worst time of year is October when the students are back and there are novices on the river – and they’re all a bit rubbish,” laughs James. “You get about two months of being woken up early in the morning, but they’re only around for eight-week terms.”

“It’s the busiest stretch of water probably in the country except some parts of London,” Amy concedes: “You wouldn’t move next to the M25 and then complain about the traffic.”

“But the traffic wouldn’t be ram-raiding your house...” Nick points out.

Adds Laura: “Plus, at the moment, all you can hear is this [she taps rapidly on the table]. The first time I heard it I was like, ‘What is that?!’ – it’s the ducks nibbling at the weed on the bottom of your boat.”

Says James: “We’ve had cows eating the flowers off the top of people’s boats before.

Sometimes you’re washing up and you look up and see one right in your window.”

And Beckee was able to introduce her little boy to a sight not many get to see: “We were having dinner one night and heard a noise, looked out and saw a cow swimming past. It was so funny watching the men from the council trying to get it out…”

Nick laughs and explains the rescue operation: “There’s a shallow part where the bank is lower, so they managed to manoeuvre it out that way.”

If intermittent hot water, nosey wildlife and floods weren’t enough to keep you on your toes, Nick and Beckee have the added challenge of raising a toddler on board.

They’re admirably phlegmatic about it.

Says Beckee: “Ted doesn’t know any different. And we’ve never lived with a baby in a house, so neither do we.

“When he was born, he slept in a little hammock above our bed – until he crawled out one night, and now Quinn’s building him a bed. Everyone helps each other out. He started swimming lessons at nine months and he can swim now, and he’s not scared of the water.”

Adds Amy: “It’s funny you should say that, as I can’t swim.” It turns out many can’t. “But the Cam isn’t very deep – you can stand up in it in most places.”

Is falling in an issue?

“Beckee fell in at nine months pregnant,” answers Nick, “when we were moored up near Lode.”

Beckee explains: “It was dark and we had no neighbours there and I came home one afternoon having lost my phone, and I fell in. I was in there for 20 minutes: my bump was so big I couldn’t get out. I was crying my eyes out! In the end, I managed to climb out but I couldn’t call Nick to tell him what

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had happened. Luckily it was August, so it wasn’t too cold. And Teddy was still two weeks late!”

Despite its occasional pitfalls, it’s clear these guys are on to something.

Says Laura, simply: “It’s changed my life. I’ve even become vegetarian because you’ve got the cows right there and the ducks… now it feels wrong to have a burger. But it’s brilliant, I love it; especially in summer.”

“Because people who live on boats love living on boats,” says Quinn, “you’ve got that in common. Everyone looks out for each other. For me, it was a boyhood dream; I wanted a different lifestyle, and to feel closer to ‘life’.”

Says Melissa: “There’s also a sense of freedom. We wanted to live somewhere where we could move, but as it happens we live in Cambridge, and we don’t think we’ll ever want to go anywhere else.”

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30 DAYS WILD

© Howard Rice

When The Wildlife Trusts issued a challenge to go forth and do one wild thing a day for 30 days, Ruthie Collins jumped in with both feet – literally at times fat moon is rising as the sun sinks into a hazy, cloudless sky, with birds singing all around me and a shining white, solitary swan gliding past. Silt oozes through my toes. Sinking deeper into calm, green water, I don’t care that my feet are now encrusted with mud, and the intense heat of the hottest day of the year is forgotten in these gorgeous moments.

I feel alive; wild. I could be on a tropical island. But I’m not. I’m in Grantchester Meadows in Cambridge, taking my first wild dip in the River Cam, with barely a soul in sight but myself and my family. It feels like a little piece of heaven has just been handed to us, wrapped up in sky, grass and water. ‘A river of green is sliding unseen beneath the trees / Laughing as it passes through the endless summer making for the sea…’ sang Pink Floyd. It’s easy to see why so many poets, musicians and artists have gone so wild for this place.

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Throughout June, thousands of people over the UK took part in 30 Days Wild (as featured on BBC’s Springwatch). The Wildlife Trusts led this fantastic campaign to get people embracing nature, spreading Random Acts of Wildness, and issuing a wall chart and a booklet of ideas to inspire us. I loved the entire month, finding that it spurred me into trying new and different

It was incredible how easy it was to check in with the great outdoors things, to visit places I’d once loved but since neglected, and appreciate the abundance of wildlife Cambridge is home to for the first time since I was a child.

Personal highlights included going on a river cruise with Riverboat Rosie,

having the natural habitat of water voles, moorhens and swans pointed out during an inspiring running commentary from owner, Peter. (You can go for cruises throughout the day, for just £8 – check www.camboats.co.uk). My three-yearold son and I adored our nature safari at the Botanic Gardens – getting kitted out with a free rucksack complete with a bug catcher, binoculars and illustrated ‘Find Me’ wildlife book, which we still use to tick off wildlife as we spot it. We also loved the annual Secret Garden open day in aid of charity Red Balloon: a chance to explore a rose-filled Victorian walled garden hidden away in the heart of central Cambridge, with two ponds teeming with frogs and newts. It’s utterly glorious – be sure to visit next year. Seeing a rarely exhibited Turner painting at the Fitzwilliam Museum as part of Ruskin’s Turners was pretty exquisite, too – the energy and the light in these vivid watercolours really shines.

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30 DAYS WILD

wild ideas:

Get up to hear the dawn chorus.

Sketch a flower.

3 Download an app to identify bird calls.

4 Hold a work meeting outside.

5 Follow a bee on its journey and see where it goes.

6 Create a wild corner in your garden.

7 If you don’t have a garden, plant a window box.

8 Put out water for thirsty hedgehogs.

9 Whip up a botanical cocktail.

10 Share a wildlife fact with a friend.

1

2

Top wild spots near Cambridge

manage 125 reserves in the area; so we’re all of us less than five miles from a reserve.

Wild beauty spots such as bluebell-filled ancient woodland, Brampton Woods, or the Beechwoods, full of glorious beech trees, are magical places and so worth a visit.

Big congratulations to The Wildlife Trusts for such a successful initiative and I am so glad to have been part of it. I felt sad to stop come the end of June – but of course, there’s no need to.

Many of us ‘wild things’ who took part have opted to #staywild throughout the year, as part of the Trusts’ #MyWildLife campaign, and the stockpile of ideas which I didn’t have time to complete have found themselves pencilled into my diary to get to throughout the whole of summer. And I’m certain there will be plenty more – though different – things to enjoy once the seasons shift and flowers give way to fruit as autumn yields its harvest.

Search for #30DaysWild on Twitter and Facebook. And @30DaysWild will be back again next year – in the meantime check www.wildlifebcn.org to find out more about wild beauty spots near you. Go wild!

Read more at www.cambsedition.co.uk, under the Blogs tab.

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GRANTCHESTER MEADOWS: Cambridge’s back garden, with a wildflower meadow, meandering river and lowing cattle – and not a building in sight. Rural bliss!

WANDLEBURY COUNTRY PARK: Woodland walks and lots of activities to get little ones connecting with nature.

CAMBRIDGE BOTANIC GARDEN: An exotic jungle of plants and flowers from around the world, right in the heart of the city.

COTON COUNTRYSIDE RESERVE: An often overlooked country park with a range of habitats and hilltop picnic area.

BRAMPTON WOODS: A 900-year-old woodland near Huntingdon, mentioned in the Domesday Book. Visit in April/May for the best bluebell show. © Alex Orrow

What felt life-changing about the 30 Days Wild challenge, though, was the sense that no matter how stressful my day had been, there was always a way to do something ‘wild’ and I always felt better after doing it. Whether it was cloud spotting, wildflower planting, having a picnic, snail catching (not difficult) or taking a minute or two to stop and listen to a bird sing its heart and soul out, it was incredible just how easy it was to check in with the great outdoors. It’s really not that hard – nature is everywhere, if you only take the time to look for it, and this was the perfect excuse to do just that.

I also loved learning about how others in the city are ‘going wild’, whether by growing gorgeous gardens, creating wild corners for their children, rearing hens, gathering eggs or nurturing fantastic allotments.

Coming away with an enriched awareness of indigenous wildlife, such as bees, birds and bats (did you know that bees don’t have sex?), was amazing. I’ve absorbed so much incredible information; and my son now knows how to spot a blackbird (and why you shouldn’t blow on a beehive full of bees… both important life lessons, I feel).

The Wildlife Trusts BCN (Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Northamptonshire)

Ruthie and son Otis take a dip

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24/07/2015 12:50

COMMUNITY

WORDS JENNY SHELTON

Community news Paralympic champion visits school On 9 July, Paralympic gold-winning champion Jonnie Peacock officially opened the new multisensory room at Samuel Pepys School, St Neots. Peacock, who was born in Cambridge, lost his right leg to meningitis aged five. In 2012 he won gold in the 100m sprint with a time of 10.90 seconds: setting the Paralympic record. An inspiring figure for young people, he spoke of being impressed by the children he met, and the benefits the new sensory room will bring about.

“The kids are already loving it,” said Peacock. “There were children waiting outside to come and play in it; they were all so excited.” The multisensory room, funded by BT and the Lord’s Taverners, features lights, sounds and textures to appeal to all the senses and create a stimulating learning environment for children with a range of disabilities.

“They’ve got all sorts of interactive things in there – bubbles, a wind machine, fibre-optic lights, a vibrating beanbag – which all kids can get involved with and learn at the same time.”

Asked about his school days, he said: “My school wasn’t as cool as this! I did my schoolwork but took any opportunity I could to play sport. But I never felt like I wasn’t able to join in, I was treated the same as everyone else.” He also stressed

the responsibility of schools to cater for the individual needs of all pupils.

“It’s important to make sure they’ve got the ability to learn just like everyone else, and if they can’t, to adapt to their needs. It’s the same way I look at my training: if I can’t quite do something then I adapt it to make sure I get what I need out of it. You figure out how to get that result a different way. I think it needs to happen as early as possible and it looks like teachers are doing a great job giving individual support to the children. It’s really great to see time and effort put in.

“Meeting the kids and seeing how much they were enjoying it was fantastic.

There will be so many hours of enjoyment had there, thanks to the Lord’s Taverners and BT. To be part of that and see the difference it made was just amazing.”

Offering advice to young people with disabilities, he said: “Remember to enjoy life, and that you’re no different to anyone else. Things may seem hard, but always remember that while there are bad times, there’ll be something good ahead.”

And we couldn’t let him go without asking: how did it feel to win gold? “It was several years ago, but I can still remember the race vividly and the feelings afterwards. The euphoria you get… you can’t get that anywhere else.”

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Campaign to save ‘West Fields’ A petition has been launched to save Cambridge’s West Fields, north of Grantchester, from development. It is feared that proposals for a £60 million busway cutting through the land, and an extensive housing development would ‘devastate a crucial green corridor and a much-valued amenity for wildlife, pedestrians, dog-walkers and cyclists.’

Stephen Coates is a member of the Save The West Fields committee. He says: “This area has been protected for centuries. The nature of the landscape is similar to that of Grantchester Meadows and integral to what makes Cambridge special.”

A petition has been set up in order to protect the area from these, and future, development plans. Stephen adds: “Between the online and the paper petition we have over 2500 supporters, and that has happened fairly quickly.

“Cambridge is an ancient, historic city with 1500 listed buildings, but there has always been a tradition of countryside going right into the heart of the city, which provides that rural context within which the historic city is set.

“We accept that there is a longterm need for housing, but we can’t kill the golden goose and destroy what’s so special about Cambridge at the same time.”

Follow: @SaveTheWFields

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INDIE OF THE MONTH

For quality clothing with a European flavour, pop into Petrus.

Jenny Shelton meets the owner ant the secret of perfect jeans?

Petra Slack has it.

“The secret is in how deep the rise is – from your crotch to your waist; how skinny or wide the leg is; and where the pockets sit on your bottom. If you’re a little bit broader behind,” she suggests, “you don’t want a large pocket that emphasises this – you need a pocket that’s smaller and sits on the vertical, not the horizontal. We also have jeans which are slightly higher at the back than the front, so that when you bend over they don’t ride down.”

It’s sensible stuff, which is what independent clothes boutique Petrus, on Bridge Street, is built on: practical, quality clothes which happen to look pretty fantastic too.

Petra opened her first shop in Saffron Walden in 2008, selling purely menswear at first, quickly branching out into Cambridge.

It’s a little hidden away from the outside, but pass by at your peril. Inside you’ll find smart men’s and women’s wear (cute dresses, tailored shirts, Italian shoes) mixed in with one-off pieces of antique jewellery and the odd item of retro furniture.

“They’re not the most expensive products out there, or the cheapest,” says Petra. “Our ethos is very much about finding garments that are different and good quality. And my personal foibles come into it, for example we have very little that’s dry-clean only.

We’ve got something for all age groups: my daughter’s 20 and she wears our brands; I’m a lot more than 20, and I wear the brands,” she smiles. “It’s what I would call modern classic: comfortable, appropriate, but with lots of personality.”

Petra has let me snoop around the stock room where her Autumn/Winter collections are starting to arrive, featuring gorgeous chunky knits, warm tones and natural fibres.

Modern classic: comfortable, appropriate, but with lots of personality “We always give a nod to modern trends, perhaps in the cut or the colour.

Our Autumn/Winter collection features lots of lovely rosy pinks, and navy blue is coming back. This muted pink, because it’s not too bright, works very well against a lot of skin tones.”

If there’s a science to shopping, Petra should know. She explains: “By profession, I’m actually a microbiologist. I worked in the pharmaceutical industry for some time, both here and in the Netherlands, until the company relocated.

“I didn’t want to move and instead took redundancy – so the shop is my redundancy package!”

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INDIE OF THE MONTH

“I’d always been interested in fabrics – the fit, function and form – and my background in sales was all about people and building relationships, so I thought I’d give it a go.”

How did she feel taking such a leap into the unknown?

“Terrified – it’s very much my personality

I'd always been interested in fabrics – the fit, function and form in front of everybody, and you just hope that people will like it. In many ways, coming into the shop is like coming into my home. We’ve always got the kettle on, people are always greeted… we try to really look after customers. And we offer good, honest advice. If someone asks our opinion, and it doesn’t look quite right, we will suggest another style that might suit them better. The last thing we want is people walking out the store with something that’s going to sit in their wardrobe forever, because they won’t come back. We’d rather they walk away with nothing then come back another day.”

Petra carefully chooses her brands, which include names from around the globe, some familiar, some not so. “These are Pepe jeans, first launched in Notting Hill in the 1970s,” she says of a pair from the Autumn/ Winter collection. “They were one of the first British denim brands. Sandwich are Dutch and we have a lovely Danish brand, InWear. Then for men we’ve a wonderful brand called Original Penguin, which dates back to the 1950s in the States and was worn by Jack Nicklaus, Clint Eastwood, Bob Hope and all the celebrity golfers.

It’s got a fashion edge to it, but it’s not so fashionable that you feel uncomfortable in it. And the logo is very discreet.

“We don’t want to have the same bands as John Lewis or Debenhams. And we pick things in a very different way to the big stores, with our specific customer in mind.”

Speaking about independent shopping in Cambridge, she says: “I think the independent scene in Cambridge has grown over the last three years. A city has to have enough independent businesses for people to visit: if you’re one on your own, it’s hard to drum up support. Now, because there are a number of independents on Bridge Street, we’ve become a destination. Multi-stores are great, but you need that mix of chains and indies that makes shopping interesting.”

A true shopping experience, there’s plenty to enjoy in store, from a working record player to a cabinet of interesting jewellery. Petra explains: “Generally that’s just me junk shopping,” she says.

Because there are a few independents now, the street has become a destination “I’ve always collected older jewellery.

A lot of costume jewellery from the 50s and earlier was made for major films, then companies marketed the same designs to the public. There was a huge trend for it in the 80s, then most people ditched it, so you don’t find a lot of genuinely old costume jewellery in the UK. UK.” She shows me a little glass crystal beetle from the 1920s. “If you wanted a piece of jewellery but didn’t want to pay a lot, it’s perfect.”

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The shop displays much of its wares on beautiful vintage furniture. Is it also for sale?

“Yes, someone fell in love with the original dressing table we had and bought it. I love this one; it dates from the 1950s. From time to time we’ll open out the drawers, fill them with jewellery and let people rummage – a bit like being at your mum’s or your granny’s dressing table.”

Clothes give us the power to express ourselves and the potential to become a treasured possession to turn to, again and again. Does she have a favourite item of clothing at home that she couldn’t bear to part with?

“I have a jersey biker jacket in grey that was one of the first pieces we stocked in the shop in 2009. I’m still wearing it, I love it. It goes with everything, it’s comfortable – and it has a bit of an edge.”

Petrus, 67 Bridge Street, Cambridge 01223 352588

Find Petrus on Facebook

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FASHION NEWS

NEWS HAPPY BIRTHDAY LILAC ROSE!

NEW ONLINE SHOP!

Lilac Rose, located on Bridge Street, is absolutely one of our most treasured Cambridge indies. With a cute-as-a-button shop, brimming with quirky gifts, gorgeous clothes and unique jewellery, this eclectic boutique is a million miles away from the generic fashion chains which dominate the city centre, and all the better for it. Chosen for their colours, fabric and vintage-cool aesthetic, Lilac Rose stocks a host of lovely British brands such as Louche, Fever, Emily and Fin, Closet and Miss Patina – and if showing up at a party with the same dress on as someone else fills you with dread, you’ll be pleased to know that they only ever stock a small number of each item.

The shop, which also has a branch in Leamington Spa, recently celebrated its fifth anniversary in Cambridge, and to mark the occasion, they’ve opened an online shop (www.lilacrose.co.uk), which offers delivery (free with orders over £65), as well as a click and collect service.

“We have loved being part of the independent retail scene in Cambridge over the past five years and really enjoy welcoming customers into our store every day,” says business partner, Mark Sinclair. “However, we wanted to offer another option for customers both here in Cambridge and around the country. Our click and collect service allows shoppers to browse our collection at home, order what they want and then pick it up from the store, which is perfect if you are a little pushed for time. And home delivery is great if you don’t live in Cambridge or you can’t make it into town. “ www.lilacrose.co.uk

CURRENT ELLIOTT SHIRT DRESS £295 ANNA, HIGH STREET, SAFFRON WALDEN

BEADED CROCHET NECKLACE £26 ARK, PEAS HILL, CAMBRIDGE

JOHN AND PEARL AZTEC BRACELET – GOLD PLATE/ NEON PINK £64.95 CUCKOO CLOTHING, ST MARY’S PASSAGE & BURWASH MANOR

LOUCHE LOUISA LILY DRESS £55 LILAC ROSE, BRIDGE STREET, CAMBRIDGE

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FASHION

LOLLIPOP CROSS BODY BAG £26 NUDE CAT EYE SUNGLASSES £18 ZIG ZAG RIBBON TRIM FEDORA £16 OLIVER BONAS, SIDNEY STREET, CAMBRIDGE

FRINGED SUEDE BUCKET BAG £49.99 ZARA, ST ANDREW’S STREET, CAMBRIDGE

ASOS TILE PRINT CROSS BACK BEACH JUMPSUIT £28 ASOS

CITY

ASOS DENIM ALINE PINAFORE DRESS £30 ASOS

PATTERNED JUMPSUIT £29 LA REDOUTE

QUELLIA TROPICAL TOUCAN SHORTS £53 TED BAKER, GRAND ARCADE

HI-FIVE WEDGES £30 TOPSHOP, GRAFTON CENTRE & GRAND ARCADE

HEADBAND £3.99 BRACELET £12.99 BAG £12.99 NEW LOOK, LION YARD, CAMBRIDGE 88 | Cambridge Edition | August 2013

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FASHION

SILK DRESS WITH TASSELS £49.99 ZARA, ST ANDREW’S STREET, CAMBRIDGE

COPA CABANA TOTE BAG NOW £14.50 ACCESSORIZE, PETTY CURY

DICKINS & JONES FLORAL BIKINI TOP £14.40 BIKINI BOTTOMS £20 HOUSE OF FRASER

HONOUR CROSS STRAP SANDAL £25 ACCESSORIZE, PETTY CURY

BLACK CROCHET COVER UP £14.99 NEW LOOK, LION YARD, CAMBRIDGE

HOLIDAY HOTLIST

Whether you’re planning a relaxing beach break or an action packed city stay, we’ve got the wardrobe essentials to keep you looking stylish this summer SMUDGE TIE DYE VEST DRESS £32 MONSOON, SIDNEY STREET, CAMBRIDGE

SWIMSUIT £45 SILK SCARF £20.25 BOTH DICKINS & JONES, HOUSE OF FRASER

PINK BIKINI £29 LA REDOUTE

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FASHION BLUE HARBOUR SUNGLASSES £20 M&S, MARKET HILL, CAMBRIDGE

LANDS’ END BLUE PRINT CHAMBRAY SHIRT £34.95 DEBENHAMS, GRAFTON CENTRE, CAMBRIDGE HERSCHEL SUPPLY CO GLENDALE 5 PANEL CAP £35 ASOS

HARVEY BLUE SUEDE LOAFERS £65 TOPMAN, GRAND ARCADE, CAMBRIDGE

SUPERDRY CHINO SHORTS WITH AO FLOWER PRINT £45 ASOS

T S I L T O im H h Y r A fo HOLID MANTARAY TROPICAL PINEAPPLE PRINT SHIRT £34 DEBENHAMS, GRAFTON CENTRE

PLAIN PIQUE POLO SHIRT £30 JAEGER, TRINITY STREET, CAMBRIDGE TED BAKER FIFTON PAISLEY PRINT SWIM SHORT £45 TED BAKER , GRAND ARCADE, CAMBRIDGE

HERSCHEL BLACK WEEKEND BAG £80 TOPMAN, GRAND ARCADE, CAMBRIDGE PRINTED SHORTS £30 NEXT, GRAFTON CENTRE, CAMBRIDGE

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BEAUTY WORDS DAISY DICKINSON

THE

AND THE

WONDERFUL From hair powder to seaweed soaks and blotting papers, Daisy Dickinson has scoured the market for the miracle beauty buys you need in your life Having discovered the genius that is hair powder a couple of years ago, I was recently reminded of its magical powers again when a friend’s jaw dropped as I sprinkled a little pot of dust over my fringe, making it come to life. “What on earth is that, and where can I get it?” she exclaimed. There are some pretty unusual products out there, and lots of new items hitting the shelves this summer, so trust me and give them a go!

EGO BOOST

If you’ve got a fringe, or have flat hair then I cannot recommend hair powder enough. A little like dry shampoo, powders work to create texture and volume, and are just the best for thickening up thin hair. I love VO5 Give Me Texture Instant Oomph Powder (£4.19, Superdrug).

Keeping with the theme, Lee Stafford’s My Big Fat Texturised Hair Super Spray (£6.33, Boots) is a multipurpose spray that works as a wax, sea salt texturiser and volume booster – with the added hold of hair spray. Muss it up and enjoy a most excellent hairdo with delicious scent. Speaking of nice smells, Schwarzkopf’s got2b Glued Blasting Freeze Spray (£4.29, Boots) is the holy grail of holding your hair in place, with a sticky sweet smell.

You’ll find it in the men’s aisle but don’t let that put you off.

HOT TO BLOT

A little like kitchen roll, facial blotting papers aim to mop up any unwanted oil. A little gross, but rather satisfying, pat one over the nose and chin area around midday to mattify skin or revive make-up. Try NYX’s Fresh Face Blotting Paper range including Green Tea, Tea Tree and Blemish Control (£6, very.co.uk) or Essence All About Matt! Oil Control Paper for just £2 from Wilko.

New from Benefit, POREfessional: License to Blot (£15.50, Boots) is a handy stick that targets shiny zones to keep them oil-free for up to six hours.

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BEAUTY

FAKE IT TILL YOU MAKE IT

nottheninetofive.com

© Accessorize

Sun protection and airbrushing? The latest offering from Murad, the Invisiblur Perfecting Shield SPF 30 (£55, John Lewis) is a totally invisible suncream with a blurring soft focus effect. It feels so silky smooth to wear and will not clog the pores or feel yucky like traditional suncream.

If you’re not a fan of heavy foundation, bareMinerals Complexion Rescue (£26, John Lewis) works harder than a tinted moisturiser offering buildable coverage with added SPF30 in a light gel formula.

Brand new from Too Faced, the Born This Way foundation (£27, TooFaced. com) launched this month is infused with coconut water and alpine rose for a light feel, and youthful glowing appearance. Joining the range, and perfect for a subtle ‘I totally woke up like this’ look, Too Faced’s new Cocoa Contour Palette makes sculpting a doddle (£32, Debenhams).

If you prefer a powder then Mineral Magic from JML (£9.92, Boots) is available at the end of August and uses four pigments to conceal, cover and brighten the complexion in one sweep!

MAKE IT UP

For the perfect application of make-up, the latest brushes from Real Techniques are just stunning. The Bold Metals collection (from £10, Boots) features seven brushes for the face and eyes in gorgeous metallic finishes.

There’s no doubt winged eyeliner requires practice – The Curve (£13, very. co.uk) is a handy tool from NYX which guides the felt-tip style eyeliner steadily into place. Still messing it up? Lord & Berry have got your back with their Touch Eraser Pencil (£9, selfridges.com), a truly brilliant product for removing smudges.

New to the bareMinerals range this month, Pop of Passion Blush (£20, John Lewis) is a creamy limited-edition blush in three shades for a nourishing dab of colour, or if you prefer your blusher in powder form, how could you resist these amazingly cute Love Flush Blush (£18, TooFaced.com) compacts from Too Faced? Available in six delightful shades, the pigment-rich colour lasts up to 16 hours, in sweet packaging reminiscent of a Polly Pocket.

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BEAUTY

SOFTLY DOES IT

When it comes to hydration in a hurry, Palmer’s Rapid Moisture Spray Lotion (£3.99, Boots) is a light and non-greasy formula that’s easy to spritz on before dashing out the door.

Stubborn dry areas be warned, Yes to Coconut Head-to-toe Hydrating Balm, (£10.99 Boots) contains virgin coconut oil, shea butter and avocado oil to restore dry elbows, hands, knees or feet.

Brave bathers should try VOYA Lazy Days Seaweed Detox Bath (£16, voya.ie), a hand-harvested organic seaweed from the unpolluted waters of the Atlantic. While it looks a little slimy this green goodness promises to moisturise and heal skin, while detoxing the body and soothing aches and pains.

Take a trip to The Body Shop on Petty Cury to discover their latest products this season including the Virgin Mojito Body Butter (£13) a minty, lime moisturiser for 24-hour hydration, or the Vitamin C Instant Glow Enhancer (14) for a rosy tint and super-soft skin.

If you can get past that it comes from a greasy sheep, lanolin, which is the hero product in Australian brand, Lanolips actually makes their products incredibly smoothing and great for dry skin. Using ultra-pure medical grade lanolin, the Triple Buttermilk Body Butter is so luxurious, and the Banana Balm 3-in-one is ace for chapped lips. (£13.99 and £9.18 respectively, both lanolips.com).

Cuticles and nails can suffer dryness too, so to keep your talons in tip-top condition try Essence’s Studio Nails Jelly Pearls Hydrating Gel dabbed around the nail bed to refresh and moisturise (£1.80, Wilko).

SCENT-SATIONAL

Rather bizarre, but great for quirky gifts The Library of Fragrance offers more than 100 different fragrances including Pina Colada, Vanilla Ice Cream, Pizza, Salt-Air and Play-doh! (£15, Boots). If you’re planning on a late summer festival, or camping get away, you’ve got to try Pump It Up (£3, Boots), a new dry shower body wash that has been specially designed to keep you fresh and clean on the go without adding water. It comes in six different scents including cucumber, mandarin and coconut.

THE BEAUTY BOX

If – like me – you’re a bit of a beauty addict, beauty boxes are a fab way to discover new products, and Latest in Beauty have got it spot on. You can either order a one-off collection box like this Glamour Summer Edit (£17.99, latestinbeauty.com) packed with products worth over an incredible £90 in total, or go for a Build Your Own box – with no subscriptions or hidden fees, you’re free to try out the products before committing to them full size.

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WELLNESS WORDS JENNY SHELTON

WELLNESS HEAR ME RAW

SAVING SMILES

If you’re a raw food fanatic, you probably already know about the Free Press pub’s raw food and vegan pop-up dinners, which they host every Sunday. If not, and you’re keen to try this new health food craze, head down to Prospect Row next Sunday at 7pm where the Rocking Raw Chef will be serving up a variety of soups, salads, curries and a selection of excellent desserts.

Raw food, she explains, is “any food that has not been heated to above 48°C”. If at least half of your food intake is raw – you don’t have to give up all cooked foods – you’re likely to notice an increase in energy levels, healthier skin and hair – it’s also thought to help with weight loss.

Book, or just drop in to find out more. www.rockingrawchef.com

Did you know that well-aligned teeth are easier to clean, meaning you’re less likely to develop tooth decay or gum disease? An evenly balanced bite protects teeth from stresses and damage – not to mention vastly improving self-confidence.

This is where your orthodontist comes in.

Anglia Orthodontics, situated by Lammas Land, are the largest providers of orthodontic care in Cambridgeshire.

Orthodontists aren’t just for teenagers with braces but all ages. Better news: their treatments don’t hurt!

Lisa Papworth shares her story: “I was always self-conscious of my crooked teeth and constantly compared them to other people’s. When I got engaged last year I was ecstatic, until it occurred to me that weddings involved photos – and lots of them. There and then I decided I wanted to make a change.

“I saw Anglia Orthodontics for a consultation and decided to embark on Invisalign rather than other braces because I liked how discreet they were.

My treatment took around 18 months to complete and no one noticed I was wearing Invisalign until I pointed it out.

I am so happy with the difference it has made to my teeth and my confidence.

Best of all, I was able to smile broadly on my wedding day.” www.angliaorthodontics.co.uk

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INDULGE YOURSELF AT BEDFORD LODGE In need of a spot of indulgence? The Bedford Lodge Spa in Newmarket is offering a summer spa special which includes treatments, use of the luxurious amenities and an evening meal for two.

Their Pure Indulgence Summer Spa Break consists of an hour-long personalised massage or facial each, use of the hydrotherapy facilities and heat rooms, a three-course dinner at the award-winning Squires restaurant, plus B&B for one night. It’s £390 for two. www.bedfordlodgehotel.co.uk

PURE DAY SPA If you are planning a little jolly this month, and want to get your bod beach ready, a trip to Pure Day Spa could be well worth it. They are currently offering a pick ’n’ mix selection of three treatments for £40 – choose from: half leg wax, bikini wax, eyebrow shape, Suntana Mousse tan, Express facial, Express back massage, mini manicure or mini pedicure.

Pure Day Spas are based in St Ives, St Neots and Huntingdon. www.puredayspas.co.uk

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EDUCATION

WORDS STUART NICHOLSON

MAKING THE Principal of CCSS, Stuart Nicholson considers the opportunities in the changing A level arena or many young people August is the month of results and decisions – decisions about their next move, where to study A levels, which university offer to accept, or indeed whether to take a different direction and study new subjects.

If students achieved the grades required and have a university in mind, it is time to celebrate. However, it's also prudent to take a moment to review successes and consider that the next step will set the agenda for the future. That way a decision can be made that will be committed to wholeheartedly.

For students who may not have

An opportunity for reflection and a fresh start achieved the grades they were hoping for, there’s no need for panic – it isn’t the end of the world! It’s an opportunity for reflection and a fresh start. It can also be a chance to redefine ambitions, perhaps following different dreams, and look at alternative university courses, as well as considering retaking some exams to improve grades.

A one-year A-level in a new subject that permits better options in the future might be the right choice for some young people.

For those who have just received GCSE results, similar thinking applies.

We suggest carefully considering where to study for A levels and how to adapt to what is a very different learning challenge. There are many open doors and plenty of opportunities, but this can feel overwhelming for youngsters. This could be the time to consider whether going straight on to A levels is right for them. Maybe they

should do some GCSE retakes or perhaps even consider some fresh new subjects?

THE NEW A LEVELS The move from GCSEs to A levels is always a big step, but for those starting A-level studies this September it’s set to be a giant leap as they’ll be the first to study for the new style exams. The new courses have been given a particular focus on preparing students for higher education, something that’s always been top of the list of priorities at Cambridge Centre for Sixth-form Studies (CCSS), the central Cambridge-based sixth form college.

Universities have played a greater role in the development of these new courses. The

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first tranche will be taught from September and will cover a range of subjects from art and design to physics and economics and will move to predominantly exambased qualifications. CCSS is well set up for preparing students for life after school, both academically and socially. A wide spread of A-level subjects enables students to achieve the right qualifications for their chosen course at university. Independent thinking beyond the syllabus is encouraged, and beyond the confines of the classroom there is an unsurpassed programme of outreach activities to enrich learning.

CCSS offers the stepping stone to university and beyond. Students benefit from average class sizes of six, taught by supportive, qualified staff who enable students to thrive academically and socially. The excellent pastoral care and structured environment, in the words of a current student, “have given me room to understand myself as a person and work out how to achieve what I want to do”.

CCSS students also have the benefit of studying alongside those from other countries, something that will bring benefits at university and in the workplace.

Research has shown that students who study alongside those from other countries at school or university gain lifelong benefits.

At CCSS 60% of our student body is international, which is something that plays a huge role in the vibrant and welcoming nature of the college.

CCSS’s alumni boasts three MPs, including Immigration Minister James Brokenshire, along with Guardian columnist and author Hadley Freeman and awardwinning film-maker Harry Freeland.

To find out more about how CCSS can take your child on their journey to higher education and success, visit www.ccss.co.uk.

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BUSINESS

BUSINESS NEWS ALL ABOARD THE RIVERBOAT GEORGINA!

GET TO KNOW YOUR CAMBRIDGE BID

How about a networking event with a difference? On Friday 7 August, Cambridgeshire Chambers of Commerce is holding a buffet lunch aboard the Riverboat Georgina.

The two-hour cruise leaves from its mooring at Jubilee Gardens, Chesterton Road, at midday before taking a tour of Cambridge’s scenic waterways. Meet potential new clients and promote your company in a relaxed setting which aims to offer an alternative to more structured networking events.

Members pay £25, it’s £35 for nonmembers, plus VAT. www.cambridgeshirechamber.co.uk

Local businesses are invited to attend a breakfast meeting at Afternoon Tease café with the chairman of Cambridge BID. Short for Cambridge Business Improvement District, the organisation represents the interests of more than 1000 businesses in Cambridge. The chairman is Ian Sandison, who was elected in May and is keen to connect with local business owners. Join him for coffee 8.30-10.30am, 6 August and share your thoughts and suggestions.

Established by local businesses in 2013, Cambridge BID’s work takes the guise of projects and initiatives in four key workstreams: Pride and Promotion, Welcoming and Vibrant, Safe and Clean and Business Support. www.business.cambridgebid.co.uk/ news

SUMMER DRINKS The next PR Hub Live meet-up will decamp to the Fort St George on 19 August for their summer drinks networking event. It’s open to anyone working in PR or marketing, and is a chance to swap notes, pick up some new contacts and enjoy a drink with other like-minded people. Head down to this traditional pub venue on Midsummer Common from 7pm (free to attend). And follow @PRHub on Twitter for more. www.prhub.org

FIRM’S CAMBRIDGE OFFICE LAUNCHES ENERGY CONSULTANCY A dedicated in-house energy consultancy has been launched by Malcolm Hollis, the UK and Ireland’s leading commercial building surveying specialist. Experienced energy assessor, David Cadwallader, joins the team as an associate to lead the new facility. He will be based from its Cambridge office; contact him on david.cadwallader@malcolmhollis.com.

David is one of the first ESOS (Energy Savings Opportunity Scheme) accredited energy assessors in the UK with more than eight years’ experience. The launch of Malcolm Hollis’s latest service will help property owners understand their obligations under the impending changes to the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards. From 1 April 2018, these regulations will make it unlawful for a landlord to let buildings that are less than an ‘E’ rating on a valid Energy Performance Certificate.

Luke Molyneux, partner in the Malcolm Hollis Cambridge office, comments: “With various energy regulations and codes in place and with many changes to decipher it is becoming increasingly important for Malcolm Hollis to offer a dedicated in-house energy consultancy as part of our wider service offering.” www.malcolmhollis.com

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