Places&Faces 150 - May 2023

WELCOME TO MAY'S

As we move closer to the summer months, we couldn’t resist adding a little bit of royalty to this issue. With the muchanticipated coronation of King Charles III at the beginning of the month we can enjoy the extra bank holiday which comes with it. Out of the five Monday’s this month we will only have two where we will have get up for the commute. So plenty of opportunity to relax. But that’s not all! We are thrilled to introduce you to the fabulous Rebecca Bishop from Two Magpies Bakery and her amazing new baking book. Rebecca’s recipes are nothing short of delicious and we couldn’t help but include a few in this month’s issue. From her famous mushrooms and Binham Blue tartine, lemon shortbread bars and oat and honey soda bread, you won’t want to miss out on these treats.

So sit back, relax, and enjoy this month’s issue. We promise to keep you entertained, inspired, and smiling throughout the entire read. And who knows, you might just pick up a few baking tips fit for royalty!

Andrew Hirst EDITOR

CONTRIBUTORS: Andrew Hirst, Jade Soanes, Mel Cook, Polly Coleman, Chantel Heath, Tom Strowlger, Adam Gunton, Sarah Hardy, Francesca Armour-Chelu, Charlie Smith-Knight, Melissa Speakman and Atlas the Dog

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Stay

What's on?

IN Staying

Fast X

Released: 19 May

at the movies

Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3

Released: 5 May

Once more, with feeling - the guardians are back for an encore. Marvel’s most unconventional offering in comic book movie history had some people a bit unsure when they were first announced a decade ago, but the comedic style, outlandish characters and nostalgic soundtrack won the hearts of audiences in a major way. We’ve watched them save the Galaxy, team up with the Avengers to fight Thanos and restore order to the universe. But now, Peter Quill (Chris Pratt), Drax (Dave Bautista), Rocket (Bradley Cooper), Mantis (Pom Klementieff), Nebula (Karen Gillan), Kraglin (Sean Gunn), Groot (Vin Diesel) and newly returned Gamora (Zoe Saldana), have to face their greatest challenge yet when they rally to defend the Universe once more. Everything’s at stake. There’ll be big laughs, heartbreaking moments and classic tunes throughout.

The Little Mermaid

Don't Miss Beau is afraid

Released: 26 May

Disney is continuing to work their way though their animated back catalogue and giving them the liveaction treatment. The titular mermaid, Ariel, is being played by Halle Bailey with Javier Bardem playing her strict father, King Triton. Ariel longs to be part of the human world and shack up with Prince Eric (Jonah Hauer-King) so she makes a deal with the evil Usuala (Melissa McCarthy) and gives up her beautiful voice in exchange for legs. Expect the classic songs and a classic story for a new audience.

Released: 19 May

From Ari Aster, the mind behind the incredible but twisted films Hereditary and Midsommar comes this new story starring Joaquin Phoenix (Joker, Walk the Line) and Amy Ryan (The Office, Birdman). Phoenix plays Beau, a mild-mannered but very anxious man who find himself on a quest following the sudden death of his mother. The journey is everything but simple and leads him on an epic odyssey to find his way home and understand more about himself. It’s equal parts comedy, drama and horror and is far from your average film.

I’ve never seen any of the Fast and Furious films but I can give you what I think is an accurate summary before we watch the tenth instalment. They’re about a bunch of petrol-heads that like to race their cars and sometimes they do crime and sometimes they save the world and one time they even went into space? Also they love the fact that they’re a family and it’s all about family and cars and being a family and driving cars.

with Adam Gunton

The Muppets Mayhem

Disney+, 10 May

Everyone remembers Animal, the drummer from the Muppets, but you might not be as familar with the rest of his group, The Electric Mayhem Band. They’ve featured through the Muppets film and TV shows for over 40 years and despite their sucess, they’ve never recorded an album. That’s about to change in this new series. With the help of their (human) executive Nora, they’ll deal with any of the struggles that recording an album comes with, plus the kind of chaos that only the Muppets could generate. The show looks like it’s going to be huge fun and will make for great family viewing. It’s going to be packed with cameos and catchy songs you won’t be able to get out of your head.

IN Staying

Don't Miss

Fatal Attraction

Paramount+, 1 May

This new mini-series is a reminging of the classing 80’s thriller starring Michael Douglas and Glenn Close. This time the lead roles are played by Joshua Jackson (Dawson’s Creek) and Lizzy Caplan (Cloverfield). In this version, the story follows the basic plot of the first one. Married-man Dan (Jackson) has what he thinks is a one-night-stand with Alex (Caplan) but she has other ideas and refuses to be ignored and threatens to ruin his marriage and his life. The twist in this version is that we’re already seeing the apparent end to this story at the beginning. Dan is in prison, convicted of Alex’s murder and he claims he’s innocent. He’s desperate to understand what happened and prove his innocence. Prepare to be hooked on this psychological thriller.

Silo

Apple TV+, 5 May

Based on the trilogy of books by Hugh Howey, Silo follows the story of a society living in a giant silo underground. They don’t know why they are there or who built the Silo but the society follows strict rules and regulations which they all believe are there to keep them safe from the toxic post-apocalyptic world on the surface. If anyone wants to go outside then they are sent out there to clean the external sensors and they die soon after. On the surface. Alone. Silo resident Juliette (Rebecca Ferguson) starts to question if what they’re being told and what they’re seeing is actually true or is there something else going on? She enlists Sheriff Holston (David Oyelowo) to help her uncover this mystery and discover the truth about the Silo. This is going to be gripping viewing where you’ll be discussing your own theories as the credits roll after each episode.

Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story Netflix, 4 May

I don’t know if you were asking for an expanded Bridgerton Universe, but you’ve got it anyway. This spin-off prequel from the popular Netflix period-piece show tellls the origin of Queen Charlotte (India Amateifio), how she rose to power and how she and King George (Corey Mylchreest) fell in love. With King Charles and his coronation featuring heavily this month, audiences might be in the mood for some royal escapades. After all the recent stately scandals, a Bridgerton story might seem a little tame and a more rose-tinted view of what a royal family could be. Either way, Bridgerton fans will be happy and this will keep them satisfied until series three hits Netflix either late this year or early next year.

with Adam Gunton

Going out

Steemy Dan

9 June, Pavilion Theatre, Gorleston

8 July, Colchester Arts Centre

12 Aug, Blakeney Harbour Room

The band is one of only a few in the UK to even attempt playing this beautifully constructed and challenging music with its wonderful amalgam of styles and genres. Not much more to be said really accept that if you’re a fan of the Dan or simply enjoy great music please try and get along to one of their gigs! ww.steemydan.co.uk

Harleston & Waveney Art Trail

Weekends of 20-21 May and 27-29 May

The Art Trail will take place throughout the valley that forms the border between Norfolk and Suffolk in May. Nineteen artists, including three new to the group, will open their studio doors to visitors across the weekends of 20-21 May and 27-29 May – including the Monday bank holiday.

It’s a wonderful opportunity for locals and visitors alike to explore how and where artists work in the stunning landscapes of south Norfolk and north Suffolk. The free event features a range of artworks including contemporary and traditional paintings, abstract work, batik, mixed media, lino prints, drawings, collage, textiles, wire sculptures plus greetings cards and prints made from the artists’ original artwork. For more information visit www.hwat.org.uk

What's on

All Things Baby

John Lewis, Norwich, 18 May 6.15pm-8pm

Join the John Lewis nursery advice team for their FREE event for expectant parents. These parental sessions will include information to help you prepare for your new arrival and the chance to discover local organisations to support you from birth and beyond. To pre-book your place at the event visit the John Lewis Norwich nursery department or email: jack.baxter@johnlewis.co.uk

The G&S Singers

You will have three chances to catch the amazing performance of the latest concert from the G and S Singers - Hope and Glory - an evening not to be missed.

Saturday 13 May 7.30pm

Magdalen Way Methodist Church, NR31 7DB

Saturday 20 May, 7.30pm

Great Yarmouth Minster, NR30 1LY

Saturday 24 June, 7.30pm

Filby Village Hall

Tickets are £10 for each concert (pay on the door) and refreshments will be available at all concerts. Music will include prom favourites to mirror The Coronation such as Mozarts Coronation Mass, Jerusalem, Zadok The Priest and Land Of Hope and Glory. Musical Director is Justin Bindley and Piano is Karen Smith. The choir now numbers 30 singers and Zina Vaitkeviciene is now chair.

www.gandssingers.co.uk

Norwich Theatre

Norwich Theatre is bringing you some fantastic international comedians to tickle your funny bone this month. Jack Whitehall (2 Jun 23) is back with his highly anticipated new live show. This is his most personal show yet, with plenty of material about the big changes that have happened in his life. It’s about his struggle to settle down gracefully. Tom Allen (7 Feb 24) brings his signature sharp wit and riotous storytelling to Norwich Theatre Royal. Tom will share life updates with us, including finally moving out of his parent’s house. www.norwichtheatre.org

Sara Johnson in her studio. Photo: William Johnson

Hurray for May

www.VisitNorwich.co.uk

May is always a busy month with the return of the Norfolk & Norwich Festival – the biggest international arts Festival in the East of England (I look forward to it with bated breath each year). But this year, May is even bigger as we have three bank holidays to while away, including the Coronation of King Charles III.

Mayday bank holiday falls on 1 May this year, but just one week later we have another three day celebration, this time in honour of the Coronation of King Charles.

We can probably safely say few of us are invited to Westminster Abbey, so how can we get involved in this wonderful occasion? Food and drink has, for as long as we can remember, been a huge part of any celebratory event. And the UK is a nation of foodies, so a simple way to get involved with the long royal weekend is to participate in the nationwide Coronation Big Lunch. Join an organised community meal or, if you fancy something more intimate, invite a few friends and family round for a bite to eat. Take a look at coronation.gov.uk for details.

Norfolk has such a vast choice of wonderful local produce, so a lunch table filled with seasonal food from the area will definitely be a winner! A meal fit for a king, so to speak.

“Norfolk is one of the best counties in the country for growing asparagus because our soil contains flint and we have dry weather conditions”, Richard Bainbridge, chef proprietor of Benedicts told me.

By May there will be abundance of delicious Norfolk asparagus. If you drive frequently through the Norfolk countryside, you’ll be used to pop-up trailers by the side of the road selling asparagus. Always stop to pick some up.

But how easy is asparagus to cook? Again, Richard helped: “The perfect way to cook asparagus is to blanch it and then pour over garlic or lemon butter. However, it is also perfect for cooking over the BBQ brushing with oil or said

to a lunch is an afternoon tea. Also, The Assembly House, Park Farm Hotel, and The Norfolk Mead create teas that you can collect and take home – I’ve done this and I can assure you the quality is not compromised.

butters – make a pile, and snack on it before lunch. It will impress everyone.” Fingers crossed for BBQ weather.

During the pandemic Richard and his wife Katja worked on creating their own food range, R. Bainbridge Provisions, which is sold through his website (rbainbridge.co.uk), 14 delis across East Anglia, including Jarrold, and from his restaurant. Richard suggested his Strawberry and Rose Preserve (£4.50) to use on homemade scones. He didn’t need to tell me twice. When I’m next in Norwich, I’m off to buy some!

Afternoon tea is a big event in this country – The Assembly House in Norwich can easily serve 1000 over a special weekend (£27.95 for one and children 12 years and under £16.95) –people love it! So, a great alternative

The Maids Head Hotel is offering Coronation afternoon teas on 5, 6 and 7 May between 12pm and 4pm. Costing £30 per person it includes a glass of Prosecco. Other local venues for an afternoon tea include: The Britons Arms on Elm Hill (£14.99 for one, £28 for two, add a glass of Prosecco £5.50), The Ivy Brasserie in Norwich, Park Farm Hotel (enjoy in their new Georgian Dining Room, from £25 for one with children 10 years and under £12.50) and The Norfolk Mead (£20 for one).

If celebrating at home, don’t forget all the local tipples available to elevate any meal. We have local wines from three fantastic vineyards: Burn Valley Vineyard (West Norfolk), Chet Valley Vineyard (South Norfolk) and Cobble Hill Vineyard (North Norfolk). As well as Gyre & Gimble

As we welcome another 31 days of fabulous things to do, including a rather special coronation and a simultaneous world event in UNESCO Cities of Literature, says Melanie Cook of

If celebrating at home, don’t forget all the local tipples available to elevate any meal.

Stopgap Dance, Frippery. Photot: Mary Doggett

Maids Head, afternoon tea

Norfolk & Norwich Festival. Photo: Mary Doggett

Gin (Royal Arcade, Norwich) and The English Distillery (whisky, Roudham).

Skipping to June - because I want to give you notice - new this year is the inaugural Norwich Wine Week (3-10 June, norwichwineweek.co.uk) organised by Norwich Business Improvement District. As well as activities across Norwich in bars, restaurants, and venues, the week concludes in a two-day festival in Chapelfield Gardens supported by MysaBar and Norfolk Wine School (9-10 June).

With the weekend event including all the vineyards already mentioned, offering tastings and the opportunity to meet the producers, as well as music and the locally loved Mysabar stretch tent (previously seen in Castle Gardens). This is going to be loads of fun, and a sociable event to get together with friends. In the tent you’ll find a fully stocked bar, with local food vendors: Thornham Oyster Co, Moco Kitchen, Dann’s Ice Cream and the Garden Kitchen Café, by Hoveton Hall. Tickets start at just £15 per person, book in advance on the website.

Back to May; Norfolk & Norwich Festival (nnfestival.org) always gives us plenty to celebrate with events to let our hair down, calmly relax and to thoroughly enjoy. So, between 12-28

including theatre, dance, circus, comedy, and more in the city’s streets. So that’s two packed days of entertainment, plus on Saturday night, in Festival Gardens, music in the bandstand (free), and food and drink, then at 9pm Gorilla Circus (free) with an amazing aerial circus featuring dance trapeze, wire walking and hair hanging-all accompanied by poetry.

I have to highlight one event which has caught my eye over the free weekend; Action Hero, Oh Europa! have been travelling through Europe since 2018 in their motorhome, recording strangers singing love songs. Come along and record one for yourself for their archive

May (8pm, £10 - £22). Joined by an eightpiece band, this is going to be a very special night.

Don’t miss The Inn Crown At The Festival Speak Easy (23-25 May, £10) where, over three days, there are six shows of the best spoken word and live literature in the UK in a special, secret pub hidden in Festival Gardens. This programme includes a performance by local poet Luke Wright.

From Friday 26-28 May we see the return of the City of Literature Weekend at the Adnams Spieglent and the National Centre for Writing, Dragon Hall. This will include lectures, performance, workshops and the City of Literature Publishing Fair (28 May, 10am-4pm, Dragon Hall).

May, expect a full programme of music, performance, visual arts, and song and dance, with plenty of surprises thrown in for good measure. As always, the festival is inclusive so there are free events, low-cost events and tickets for under 26 years at just £7.50.

The festivities start with the Welcome Weekend – a departure from their usual big, free opening event. This year, over 13 and 14 May across Norwich, there’s a programme of free performance

and be featured on BBC Radio Norfolk between 22-26 May. Surely this is the ultimate gesture of how much you care about the special person in your life?

The rest of the Festival? Watch out for, La Zanka Cosmic Care which has three intimate and interactive shows; Open to all, A female identifying audience and A male identifying audience. You are invited to wear swimming costumes and participate in body painting (not compulsory) during this one hour show exploring water in self-care and curing. Tickets £7.50, 13 and 14 May varying times, venue The Garage, Norwich.

The bandstand in Festival Gardens (free). If we are lucky to have good weather this month then Festival Gardens comes into its own of an evening. It’s a fabulous place to mix with all ages for a drink - in and out of the tent - and to listen to alfresco tunes from some of the best young musicians. See the website for the full line up and times. And running from 17-28 May (evenings), book tickets for the Adnams Spiegletent for Chelsea McGuffin & Co with Le Coup – this is fight night at the circus! Tickets range from £20-£26.

Jasdeep Singh Degun is a virtuoso sitarist playing at St Peter Mancroft, 18

Visual arts are always an important aspect of the Festival. Book a coach seat from Norwich to Walsingham (£5) for Anne Bean, In Search of the Miraculous (free, 26-28 May). Here the audience will be led through the pretty village of Walsingham encountering performances, actions, demonstrations and films plus an installation by Richard Wilson.

FESTIVAL TOP TIPS

1. Compline by Candlelight, free, Norwich Cathedral, no booking required. In stunning candlelit settings listen to The Girl Choristers, Lay Clerks and Choral Scholars of Norwich Cathedral Choir.

2. Ragroof Tea Dance – Vintage Hollywood, £16, 21 May, 11am at the Adnams Spiegletent. Dance like nobody’s watching!

3. Page Against The Machine, £2 donation, Plantation Garden, 1pm. This is a global event for 2023. Pick a book, bring a drink, and turn off your phone for a read in the gardens, whilst simultaneous events take place across the world in UNESCO Cities of Literature. In conjunction with The Book Hive. Full details of everything mentioned here and loads more ideas can be found at www.visitnorwich.co.uk

Norfolk & Norwich Festival always gives us plenty to celebrate with events to let our hair down, calmly relax and to thoroughly enjoy

Garden Party, Stopgap Dance, Frock. Photo: MA Photography

Dragon Hall, National Centre for Writing Norwich

Richard Bainbridge. Photo: Benedicts

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by Andrew Hirst

With allof the bank holidays on the horizon you may find yourself with an afternoon or two to fill. And what better way to do it than with a new book. Here we have a selection of some of the latest books that will inspire and entertain you throughout May.

Our King: Charles III

by Robert Jobson

King Charles III’s life has been marred by scandal and myth, but who is the real man behind the Crown? In this revelatory book, renowned royal correspondent and author Robert Jobson examines the life of our new King, and his passions, purpose, and motivations. On the eve of his landmark coronation, Our King considers the life of the man and the monarch, reflecting on how his values and beliefs will shape him as he takes on this monumental role.

Old God’s Time

by Sebastian Barry

Recently retired police officer Tom Kettle is settling into the quiet of his new home, a lean-to annexed to a Victorian castle overlooking the Irish Sea. For months he has barely seen a soul, catching only glimpses of his eccentric landlord and a nervous young mother who has moved in next door.

Occasionally, fond memories return, of his family, his beloved wife June and their two children. But when two former colleagues turn up at his door with questions about a decades-old case, one which Tom never quite came to terms with, he finds himself pulled into the darkest currents of his past.

A beautiful, haunting novel, in which nothing is quite as it seems, Old God’s Time is about what we live through, what we live with, and what may survive of us.

Two Magpies Bakery

by Rebecca Bishop

In this debut book Rebecca Bishop reveals some of her amazing recipes which has helped to make the Two Magpies Bakery such a success. If you love baking, or if you are new to baking and would like to hone your skills, then you are going to love this beautiful book. From brunch to bread and pizza to pastries there is a recipe to cater for every occasion. A must own book to enhance everyone’s collection.

Do No Harm

by Jack Jordan

My son has been taken. And I’ve been given a choice. Kill a patient on the operating table. Or never see him again. The man lies on the table in front of me. As a surgeon, it’s my job to save him. As a mother, I know I must kill him. You might think that I’m a monster. But there really is only one choice. I must get away with murder. Or I will never see my son again.

The Mill House Murders

by Yukito Ayatsuji

A twisty and ingenious classic Japanese murder mystery where a small group of acquaintances pay a visit to the remote, castle-like Mill House, home to the reclusive Fujinuma, who has lived his life behind a rubber mask ever since a disfiguring accident. However, the visit is disrupted by gruesome murder, a baffling disappearance and the theft of a priceless painting.

Old Babes in the Wood

by Margaret Atwood

A dazzling collection of fifteen stories from award-winning author of The Handmaid’s Tale and The Testaments Margaret Atwood is celebrated as one of the most gifted storytellers in the world. These stories explore the full warp and weft of experience, from two best friends disagreeing about their shared past, to the right way to stop someone from choking; from a daughter determining if her mother really is a witch, to what to do with inherited relics such as World War II parade swords.

Celebration a fit foraKing

OnSaturday 6 May, England’s longest serving heir apparent will ascend the throne and be crowned King Charles III. As our first King since 1952, some of us are still adjusting to singing God Save the King, in the same way that it usually takes until March to stop using the previous year’s date when forced to write it down. For the majority, this will be the first coronation witnessed in our lifetimes, so what can we expect? Is it all court jesters, crown jewels and coronation feasts? Probably not, as this isn’t an episode of The Tudors. Perhaps the answer lies in the bonny King Charlies of the past and preceding coronation celebrations.

A Tale of Two Charlies

As Charles III’s moniker suggests there have been two former Kings of England with the same namesake. The first of whom, Charles I, reigned from 16251649. In moves reminiscent of Joffrey Baratheon, Charles I believed in the divine right of Kings and chose to govern by his own conscience. As a result of his tyrannical behaviour, Charles I was met with fierce opposition, culminating in the first English Civil War. Arguably the equivalent of starting a new job and successfully upending the company by having the employees revolt.

In this case, the mutiny was successful and in 1649, Charles I was executed, and England became a republic under William Cromwell. It remained so, until after Cromwell’s death when Charles II negotiated with parliament and the monarchy was reinstated in 1660. Charles II was the oldest living progeny of Charles I, who had 9 children, the eldest of whom

was also noted as Charles but died within a day of his birth.

Charles II became known as the ‘Merry Monarch’ due to the hedonism of his court and although he left no official heir, Charles II reportedly acknowledged 12 illegitimate children, two of whom have a lineage that includes the late Diana, Princess of Wales. Although Charles II is known as one of England’s more popular sovereigns, his reign was not without note, weathering both the Plague and the Great Fire of London. Presently, English monarchs have less power than their ancestors although we live in equally colourful post-pandemic times. In this respect, we can only hope that King Charles III’s reign will be as inoffensive as a calendar of nuns holding puppies.

Crowning Glory

If you know more about Coronation Street than coronation ceremonies, we haven’t had one for 70 years, so you’re forgiven. England has been crowning monarchs for longer than some modern countries have been established and Westminster Abbey has hosted coronations since William the Conqueror was invested in 1066. Coronations are seen as a way to reaffirm a nation’s purpose and, as such, have been public events for hundreds of years-with Queen Elizabeth II’s being the first time the occasion was televised. The ceremony involves a fair amount of pomp and formality including the new monarch being presented to the country, being anointed with consecrated oil and bestowed with items like the coronation ring and sceptre with cross, all from the seat of the 700 year old Coronation

Chair. Although Liz reportedly altered conventions by introducing the singing of the National Anthem, she did fall short of full-on jazz hands. Her ceremony was fairly long winded with a 16,000 person procession and a service of over 3 hours, like a James Cameron movie but with ceremonial robes. So, what can we expect from a contemporary King in a social media world?

A 21st Century King

The official affair will take place on Saturday 6 May, with a bank holiday on Monday 8 May. Charles and his wife Camilla will be crowned at the event then return to Buckingham Palace in procession with other members of the Royal Family. Like a regal conga line. The ceremony will be shorter and reportedly represent more religions, in order to be more inclusive than its predecessors. Charles is also choosing to personalise the rituals by including Greek Orthodox music in the celebrations in memory of his late father and by having some of the service sung in Welsh, to signify his place as the longest serving Prince of Wales. It has been stated that the consecrated oil will not include products derived from animals and some controversial crown jewels will be excluded from proceedings, showing a sensitivity to the social climate. Whilst the ceremony itself will be rooted in tradition, the King will be holding various modern festivities including a concert and a laser light show at Windsor Castle, making the event more accessible and relevant to younger audiences. No doubt with plenty of recognisable celebrity names and Instagrammable aesthetics. For the rest of the population, pubs and clubs will be allowed to stay open for two hours later on the Friday and Saturday, so fingers crossed for beer-garden weather.

Whether you believe the coronation will reaffirm your purpose or you’re just in it for the extra Bank Holiday, it’s fair to say that after the last few years you can’t threaten us with a good time. Gather your loved ones, cut the crusts off the cucumber sandwiches and rejoice in the spectacle that makes us one of the most unique nations in the World. That and our absolute mastery of queuing.

Charlie Smith-Knight takes a closer look at the coronation

Great British SUMMER The

One ofthe joys of a lazy summer is the food; from the traditional picnic fare of artisan sausage rolls and juicy olives, to the enticing scent of a barbeque with an array of sauces and garnishes, there are some foods which just suit the season, especially when they are served al fresco.

So throw open that blanket, assemble that deckchair and adorn your outdoor dining table, it’s time to get warm-weather-ready.

Whether it’s for your salad or burger, the Richard Bainbridge Beetroot Ketchup (270g, £4.50) is a great blend of earthiness and fruitiness which offers something a little different to your customary choice. Beetroot is a humble root vegetable, which has recently got superstar status

Ask the Expert

due to its nutritional credentials and culinary versatility, making it a great addition to your outdoor dining.

Nothing beats the salty, strong flavour profile of a black olive. Slightly less bitter than its green cousin, the black olive gives a taste of the Mediterranean and happy holiday memories. Try Odysea Vegan Big Kalamata Pitted Olives (165g, £4.00) which are plump and meaty with a glossy skin and a rich fruity flavour. Perfect to balance the beige in your picnic basket.

One of the pleasures of al fresco is the fresh, bright food on offer. When you are thinking about what you are going to eat, remember the fresh range available at the deli counter and the cheese room in the Jarrold Food Hall. Artisan, handcrafted and delicious, discover sausage rolls to make your mouth water, salads to brighten your palette and cheese to graze and enjoy. Our instore experts can give advice and offer suggestions to ensure your choices are always delectable and delightful.

A mark of recognition

A Royal Warrant is an honour bestowed on a business for supplying goods or services to the Royal Household. These businesses often show exemplary service and craftsmanship and we are delighted to showcase some of them in the Jarrold Food Hall.

Apple of our eye

The private residence of four generations of sovereigns, Sandringham, located in Norfolk, is an estate covering 20,000 acres, much of which is farmland. Continuing to evolve, the farm is now organic and seeks to improve its conservation management, growing a diverse range of crops and implementing a plan of Agroforestry, which is a system of farming which integrates the growing of crops and livestock in woodland or amongst trees.

Within the Sandringham estate, a 30-acre apple orchard was planted in 1953, the year of Queen Elizabeth II’s Coronation. Apples harvested from these trees are now used by the Sandringham Apple Juice company and is served at Royal Garden Parties at Buckingham Palace and Holyrood Palace in Scotland

From tree to bottle, Sandringham Apple Juice is fully produced on the Royal Estate and with 8 different varieties of apple grown, each of their juices have a unique and distinctive flavour including the rich-sharp Bramley and the sweet-fresh Katy.

Laurent Perrier

La Curvee Brut Champagne, 75cl | £51

One of the finest names of Champagne, this beautifully balanced, fresh, elegant Champagne makes the perfect toast to the new monarch.

Charbonnel et Walker

Cocoa Dusted Almonds, 320g | £18.50

A luxury chocolate brand with a rich history dating back to 1875, these hand finished treats make a truly divine and indulgent experience.

Tiptree

The British Breakfast Selection, £15

The perfect accompaniment to a right royal breakfast, this selection of traditional jams and marmalades will add a sense of occasion to your morning.

Sandringham Apple Juices make a charming drink for adults and kids across your Coronation celebrations and through all your summer activities, from trips to the seaside to the classic picnic. Try mixing with a little ice and some soda to elevate your serve or turn your hand to a refreshing apple and elderflower gin cocktail.

Richard Bainbridge Beetroot Ketchup, 270g, £4.50

Odysea Vegan Big Kalamata Pitted Olives, 165g, £4

Insp ing women

confidence - you need to be precise when baking, you need to get your timings right, but it is rewarding.’

She also enjoys collaborations with local producers, saying the company uses Hills Farm oils from Halesworth, milk and butter from Fen Farm Dairy, near Bungay, and Blythburgh pork in their super popular sausage rolls. ‘And it is important that we use seasonal ingredients, too - I’m looking forward to the first asparagus arriving.’

www.thenextloaf.co.uk

TheTwo Magpies chain is a roaring success - an artisan bakery, with cafes, that have sprinkled a little bit of baking magic across Norfolk and Sufffolk. It was set up 10 years ago by Rebecca Bishop and her then husband, Jim, with the original branch in Southwold, right on the High Street.

Now there are branches in Aldeburgh, Darsham, Norwich, Holt, Blakeney, Woodbridge, Beccles and, soon to come, Wells, with a branch due to open on May 15. The company employs more than 100 people and has its main production site in Halesworth, with a fleet of vans delivering the tasty goodies to the various shops and cafes.

Rebecca comes from a teaching background, working in both art and textiles departments in high schools, but decided to turn her passion into her business, attending a bread-making course at the School of Artisan Food in Nottinghamshire. Her love of baking is simple, she says, describing it as ‘expression of love.’

Once the decision to open a bakery was taken, the search for a suitable destination began. ‘We wanted somewhere with a good greengrocer and butcher’s - but no bakery. And I wanted to live somewhere nice - I really liked the Isle of Skye, for example!’ she says.

They settled on Southwold and lived over the shop for some time, with Rebecca creating a small onsite bakery, too. The town centre bakery was an instant success, with customers regularly queuing down the street for the breads, cinnamon rolls, cheese straws, pastries, sausage rolls - with their all butter pastry - and decent coffee. ‘The first five years were very hard,’ she admits. ‘You bake through the night as the shops open at 8am, packed full with all your fresh bakes. It is a very tough life.’

Rewards came as she won Gold at the World Bread Awards in 2014 and 2015, and she is also a keen promoter of the Real Bread Campaign.

Now Rebecca, who is in her mid 50s with three grown up children, leaves much of the day-to-day operational side of things to others, including her second husband Steve Magnall who is the company’s joint owner with Rebecca. He comes from a retail background having previously been the CEO at St Peter’s Brewery, based in the countryside south of Bungay.

Her main interest these days, she says,

Her latest project is her first recipe book which has just gone on sale. Simply called Two Magpies Bakery by Rebecca Bishop, it is published by Headline Home at £26. It contains more than 100 recipes, showing you how to make everything from breads to pastries and pizza, including sourdoughs, scones, croissants and cardamom buns, with her straightforward instructions accompanied by mouth-watering photography. Two particular crowd favourites include Adnams Broadside bread pudding and lemon shortbread slice and there are ambitious cake ideas too.

She admits that she had thought about writing a book for about seven years, amassing lots of bits of paper, and squirreling away recipes and stories. She explains that just as she was thinking she should really get on with it, a publisher came into the Blakeney shop and suggested it. ‘So it sort of fell into our laps. And, as I thought I just about had it ready, I was given quite a short time to produce it - then I discovered all I really had was lots of different scraps of paper!’

She is a real fan of cookbooks, reading them the way most of us would read a novel - from start to finish, with no jumping chapters! She admires the work of Diana Henry and Yotam Ottolenghi, and says she has around 300 cookbooks of her own. ‘I have a whole wall, a dividing wall between my kitchen and dining room, which is just filled with cookbooks!’

She laughs as she admits that she wasn’t known for her own culinary skills when younger but says her interest in food probably developed when she lived in Hong Kong from the age of 13 to 18. ‘Eating out is the norm there, so we

is product development, and she very much enjoys teaching classes at the Cook School, at Darsham. Most classes last a day and her most popular ones are, of course, making sourdough. ‘People come with various levels of ability and experience but they all learn something new,’ she says, adding that she also enjoys offering online classes, too. ‘All the courses are really accessible and you gain

ate out three or four times a week and I was exposed to lots and lots of flavours.

‘Now I like to dissect recipes, to really understand how they work, and I like to cook from scratch, too.’

She hopes to write more cookbooks and also enjoys creating material for her own website, www.thenextloaf.co.uk and her Instagram account, thenextloaf, where she shares her baking adventures.

Sarah Hardy talks to Rebecca Bishop of Two Magpies Bakery about her debut cookbook

Photo: India Hobson

All the courses are really accessible and you gain confidence - you need to be precise when baking, you need to get your timings right, but it is rewarding

Rebecca Bishop loaf

using her

Rebecca is appearing at the North Norfolk Food and Drink Festival at Holkham Hall on Saturday, September 2. At The Arthur Howell Cookery Theatre, she will demonstrate the art of making sourdough bread. More details are www.northnorfolkfoodfestival.co.uk

Rebecca is joining Places & Faces as a columnist next month, where she will share some of her baking skills, offering essential advice and tasty recipe ideas.

Photo: India Hobson

Here are three recipes from Rebecca’s debut cookbook, Two Magpies BakeryStories and Recipes from the Heart of East Anglia, with photography by India Hobson, which is now on sale. Find out more at www.twomagpiesbakery.co.uk

Mushrooms & Binham Blue tartine

Welove a tartine – it’s essentially stuff on toast and makes the perfect showcase for our bread and an opportunity to let simple seasonal ingredients speak for themselves. Mrs Temple’s Binham Blue is a creamy Norfolk cow’s milk cheese that crumbles softly. If you can’t find it, then Cambazola or Dolcelatte would be great substitutes. Thanks to Ali, our Southwold chef, for this recipe – our customers love you for it!

INGREDIENTS:

Serves 2

• 1 Tbsp olive oil

• 100g chestnut mushrooms, cut into 1cm slices

• 1 large banana shallot, finely sliced

• 1 garlic clove, finely sliced

• 100g watercress

• 1 tsp fresh thyme, stalks removed

• 100ml double cream

• 100g Binham Blue cheese, crumbled

• 2 thick slices of Classic Magpie Sourdough

• 5–6 pickled silverskin onions per person

METHOD:

- Heat the oil in a heavy-based pan, then add the sliced mushrooms, shallot, garlic, thyme and a generous grind of flaky sea salt and black pepper.

- Cook gently for 5 minutes until the shallot has softened.

- Add the cream and crumbled cheese and continue to cook gently for another 5 minutes.

- Toast the sourdough bread and lay each slice on a warmed plate. Top with the cooked mushroom mix. Season generously with salt and pepper.

- Garnish with a handful of watercress alongside and the pickled onions.

Photo: India Hobson

Oat & honeysoda bread Lemon shortbread bars

Mouth-puckeringly sharp, this baked lemon curd on a crunchy shortbread base is best served chilled and prettily dusted with icing sugar. It’s popular all year round with our customers – in fact, one of our regulars was so addicted to it she even underwent hypnosis to curb her craving (this is a true story!). This recipe works well with gluten-free flour, too.

INGREDIENTS:

Makes 12

Shortbread base

• 170g plain (or gluten- free) flour

• 60g caster sugar

• 140g melted

unsalted butter

• ½ tsp vanilla paste

Lemon filling

• 4 lemons, preferably unwaxed

• 300g caster sugar

• 40g cornflour

• 5 eggs

• 90g melted unsalted butter

• Icing sugar, for dusting

METHOD:

- Preheat the oven to 190°C/170°C fan/gas 5.

- Start with the shortbread base, weighing your flour, sugar and a generous pinch of fine table salt into a bowl and whisking to combine. Gradually pour the melted butter onto the dry ingredients and add the vanilla, mixing with a spatula until it clumps together to form a rough dough (or use a stand mixer with the paddle attachment on slow speed).

- Press the dough evenly into a greased and lined 23cm x 23cm x 5cm square baking tin (if you’re using a loose-bottomed tin make sure it’s fully lined so the liquid mix doesn’t seep out). Bake for 10–15 minutes until firm and dry to the touch, though still very pale in colour. Remove and fully cool.

- Reduce the oven heat to 175°C/155°C fan/ gas 3½.

- Wash the lemons thoroughly. Slice two of the lemons into rings, 3mm thick, and remove the pips. Place the slices into a blender and grind to a pulp.

- Add the sugar and cornflour and continue until you have a fine purée. Juice the remaining two lemons and add this juice to the blender along with the eggs, melted butter and a generous pinch of salt. Pulse briefly to combine.

- Place the tin with the shortbread base into your oven, keeping the door open. Carefully pour the lemon mix over the shortbread base and bake for 20–25 minutes until firm. The lemon layer should be set but not browned.

- Cool, then chill in the fridge. Once firm, carefully remove from the tin, dust heavily with icing sugar and cut into bars.

Quickand easy to make, soda bread can be on the table within an hour. To leaven this bread, we use bicarbonate of soda rather than yeast, which gives a distinctive taste and texture and makes it the perfect introduction to the pleasures of real bread. If you’re struggling to find buttermilk, add a tablespoon of lemon juice to full-fat milk. Stir and allow to curdle slightly for 30 minutes.

Delicious with salty butter and a bowl of home-made soup or with scrambled eggs and smoked salmon. This loaf will stale quickly, so enjoy it fresh on the day it’s made or toast the next day. We get our buttermilk from our local raw milk supplier, Fen Farm Dairy, a by- product of their delicious Baron Bigod brie.

INGREDIENTS:

• 200g self-raising flour

• 120g wholemeal flour

• 150g jumbo oats

• 1 tbsp bicarbonate of soda, sieved

• 1½ tsp fine

sea salt

• 1 tbsp honey

• 1 tbsp treacle

• 350g buttermilk

METHOD:

- Preheat the oven to 210°C/190°C fan/ gas 6-7 and grease your tin thoroughly.

- Weigh the two flours, 120g of the oats, the bicarbonate of soda and salt into a large bowl and whisk to combine.

- In a jug, measure your honey, treacle and buttermilk and stir to combine. Add the liquid to the flour mix and, using a scraper or a wooden spoon, stir briefly to combine until no dry matter remains. This is more like mixing a cake batter than bread – don’t overmix the dough.

- Pour the wet mix into the prepared tin and smooth the top with a wet finger. Sprinkle the remaining 30g of oats onto the wet surface. Bake for 35-40 minutes until golden brown and the core temperature is 97°C.

Photo: India Hobson

Photo: India Hobson

King Prawn Stir Fry

INGREDIENTS:

Serves 4

• 2 Tbsp light olive oil

• 300g King Prawns

• 2 Vegetable peppers of your chosen colours, seeded and sliced.

• 2 Pak choi –each halved: remove the stalk sections and slice, but leave the leaves intact.

• 2 Carrots, sliced into thin batons

• Noodles allow 1-2 nests per person

• 1 x 226g jar ART’s Seaside Salsa

• Sesame seeds –for topping

METHOD:

- Prepare the vegetables. Heat a pan of salted water to a rolling boil for the noodles.

- Place a non-stick frying pan on a medium heat and warm the oil. Add the carrots and cook until they start to soften. Add the prawns and fry until cooked through and golden.

- Add the peppers, pak choi stalk and the Seaside Salsa and fry for 5 minutes, whilst the noodles are cooking.

- Add the noodles to the pan of boiling water and cook for 5-6 minutes whilst the stir fry simmers.

- In the final couple of minutes, add the Pak Choi leaves to the stir fry and let them wilt.

- Strain the noodles and serve the stir fry on a bed of noodles and dress with a sprinkling of sesame seeds.

A Toast to the King Strawberry Fizz

A family-friendly cocktail for all ages

INGREDIENTS: Makes 1

• 125ml chilled sparkling elderflower presse* per glass

• 1 tsp ART’s Strawberry Fizz jam per glass

• 25ml of orange juice (freshly squeezed, if possible) per glass

• Ice

*champagne, prosecco or cava works just as well!

METHOD:

- Place the jam in the glass and add the orange juice. Mix together well with the spoon.

- Add plenty of ice, then gently add the presse (or other bubbles), garnish with cut strawberries, serve and toast!

Alice Rebecca Talbot owner of ART’s – Craft Kitchen

What to wear this May Spring into Style

by Polly Coleman

As the weather starts to warm up and the flowers begin to bloom, May is the perfect time to update your wardrobe with some fresh new styles. Whether you're attending a spring wedding or just looking to revamp your everyday look, there are plenty of fashion trends to try this month. Here are some of my tips on what to wear this May.

1. Pastels...

Spring is all about light, bright colours, and pastels are a perfect choice for May. Think pale pink, baby blue and mint green. These colours are perfect for adding a gentle pop of colour to your outfit without being too bold or overpowering.

2. Lightweight layers...

As the weather starts to warm up, you'll want to start layering your outfits with lightweight pieces. Think flowy cardigans, denim jackets, and lightweight scarves. These pieces are perfect for adding a little warmth in the morning and evening, without overheating during the day.

Button Through Sage Green Denim Midi Dress, £40, NEXT

Metal Detail Green Preppy Sunglasses, £26, Oliver Bonas

Spring Floral Print White Blouse, £55, Oliver Bonas

£39

Phase Eight Denim Waisted Jacket, £85, M&S

3. Floral prints...

It wouldn't be spring without some classic florals. Floral prints are a timeless yet fresh trend that are perfect for May. From dresses to blouses to accessories, there are plenty of ways to incorporate this classic print into your wardrobe.

4. Wide-leg trousers...

Wide-leg trousers are a stylish and comfortable option for this month. They're perfect for dressing up or down, and they work well with both heels and trainers. Try pairing them with a fitted top or a cropped jumper for an on-trend look.

5. White trainers...

White trainers are a classic, versatile and comfortable shoe option for spring. They are timeless and roll back around the fashion circuit every year. They're perfect for teaming with dresses, skirts, and jeans. Plus, they add a fresh and clean look to any outfit.

Ted Baker Krissi Wide Leg Trousers, £150 , John Lewis

White Floral Cupsole Trainers, £14, George at ASDA

Frantic Embellished Lace Up Trainers, £44.99, OFFICE

Floral Print Top, £29.99, ZARA

6. Statement accessories...

May is a great time to experiment with statement accessories. Try adding a bold necklace, earrings, or scarf to your outfit to add some personality, flair and a pop of colour. Accessories are a great way to switch up your look.

7. Midi skirts...

Midi skirts are the perfect length for spring weather. They're long enough to keep you warm, but short enough to show off your shoes. Similar to styling wideleg trousers, try mixing a midi skirt with a cropped jumper or a tucked-in blouse for a chic, feminine look.

8. Jumpsuits...

Jumpsuits are so versatile and are perfect for a variety of occasions, from casual brunches to dressier events. Look for jumpsuits in light fabrics, pastel colours or floral prints for a fresh spring look. Pair them with heels and statement jewellery for a dressy occasion or with trainers and a denim jacket for a more casual, everyday look. Jumpsuits are an effortless way to look fashionable and put together without much effort!

May is a wonderful time to experiment with your wardrobe and try out some fresh new styles. Whether you're looking to add some pastels or florals to your wardrobe, or you want to experiment with wide-leg pants or statement accessories, there are plenty of fashion trends to try this month. So go ahead and have fun with your style, and enjoy the beautiful weather of spring!

Pleated Midi Skirt, £35.99, Zara

Skirt, £65, H&M

Buttoned A-Line Midi

Yerse Francis Cotton Striped Midi Skirt, £85, Jarrold

Kate Spade New York Floral Cubic Zirconia Statement Necklace, £240, John Lewis

Committed to quality and service Bradley Hatch

Whenyou buy a piece of jewellery, small or large, as a gift or as a treat for yourself, it is a special moment. You want to feel that the shop you are buying from enhances that feeling and understands you as a valued customer. For 29 years Bradley Hatch Jewellers in Wroxham has been doing exactly that, sharing a passion for jewellery and beautiful items with customers seeking professional, honest advice. Because they serve people with genuine care and respect those customers keep coming back. Over the years owner Bradley and his team have sold engagement rings to customers who return to buy their wedding rings and, a few years later, christening gifts!

HOW IT ALL BEGAN

As a boy Bradley developed a fascination for fine jewellery when accompanying his father, an antiques dealer, to auctions. Determined to set up a business of his own, Bradley worked hard learning his trade and achieved his ambition in May 1994 when he opened his store in Wroxham, offering a variety of high quality new and vintage jewellery, watches, clocks and giftware. 29 years later, after much hard work, dedication and attention to customer satisfaction, Bradley and his team have built an excellent reputation both locally and further afield.

THE SHOP

BESPOKE JEWELLERY

If you wish to create something unique to your story, their in-house master craftsman will create a bespoke design just for you. His skills and experience can enhance your original ideas to create a piece of jewellery to surpass all expectations. He can also redesign an existing piece, using original gems in a new and imaginative way.

RESTORATION & REPAIRS

the shop is a treasure house full of unique

for rare, interesting

Bradley’s personal approach means that the shop is a treasure house full of unique items not found elsewhere. Bradley is constantly searching for rare, interesting and exciting pieces which have been overlooked by other jewellers to share with customers.

and exquisite eternity

Bradley Hatch Jewellers take great pleasure in restoring favourite items to their original sparkling condition. Their workshop offers a range of services, including redesigning original pieces, repairing jewellery, watches and clocks and they also provide valuations for insurance and probate. They understand that loving memories are held in jewellery and jewellery can be adapted to suit the wearer. Bradley Hatch Jewellers particularly excel at reinventing treasured pieces so they may be loved for many years to come.

WEDDING & OCCASION JEWELLERY

customers will find a carefully chosen

Classic pearl sets, stunning vintage jewellery, watches and exquisite eternity rings mean that life’s key moments can be celebrated in an unforgettable way. Vintage jewellery makes a special gift because, as well as being an excellent investment, it represents a moment in history. Both in-store and online customers will find a carefully chosen selection of pre-owned and vintage jewellery, often with surprising tales to tell. They can even engrave your treasured gifts with a message that will last a lifetime.

For one of the finest selections of wedding and engagement rings in Norfolk, pay them a visit, browse at leisure and talk things through with their friendly, knowledgeable staff. Visitors who return to the shop year on year do so because they receive the same warm welcome they experienced the first time. For 29 years, pride in continuity has ensured Bradley Hatch Jewellers gives customers the very best of Norfolk and you will be spoilt for choice at Bradley Hatch Jewellers of Wroxham.

wedding and engagement rings in

br adle y ha tc h

Interior Trends

Interior designer Laura Ruddy owner of the stylish Norfolk Luxury Furniture gives us advice to keep our homes on trend this year.

Norfolk Luxury Furniture is a new on-line Company that specialises in supplying on-trend, desirable items of furniture and furnishings. The owner, Laura Ruddy set up the business after spending many hours searching the internet for quality, luxurious items at competitive prices.

@norfolkluxuryfurniture

www. norfolk luxury furniture .com

Easy orchids

Large White Orchid In Glass Pot Love orchids but keep forgetting to water them? Then faux orchids are the way forward. A sophisticated and timeless home addition that will add an air of serenity and elegance wherever it’s placed. This faux plant would look fantastic on a dining table or console table’s centrepiece. Problem solved!

Getting comfy

Talulah Cushion Twilight

A NEW collection of designer cushions by brands Temperley London and Romo, who have collaborated to produced their own collection Temperley London x Romo, are very popular in the interior design industry. With unique designs, fabrics and intricate detail, Temperley London x Romo has certainly raised the bar in the Interior Design world. Not only do they produce unique cushions, but they also have wall coverings and fabrics to match!

Coffee Table Styling

Tom Ford 001 Book - Large Books are perfect to add a finishing touch to your living space. Stack them up, or place one next to a decorative tray on your coffee table. Have a look on our website for more designer books in a variety of colours and tie in your coffee table styling into the colour scheme of your room.

Items

www.norfolkluxuryfurniture.com

Warmer days are here

Cube Daybed By Skyline Design Invest in one of the best luxury outdoor furniture brands around. With plush seating that offers unique styles and pure luxury to eye-catching daybeds. Check out our website to see the full collection.

La a L es

AVOCA PENDANT

RV Astley have just brought out some new lighting designs and this pendant is one of my favourites! The Avoca Pendant is a charming piece of lighting that will add a unique touch of antique class to any living space, perfect for kitchen islands, hallway tables and anywhere else you’d like to add a little extra style.

www.norfolkluxuryfurniture.com

Pomander

Cinnamon, Clove and Orange, handmade soy candle, 200g, white glass I recently discovered The Suffolk Candle Company and bought one of their Pomander Candles. I love the design and it also smells superb! They have a wide range of candles, diffusers and wax melts! I recommend you check out their collection online at:

www.thesuffolkcandle.co.uk

Independent repair and service specialists for Land Rover Vehicles

We offer servicing, repairs, MOT’s, vehicle upgrades and stock a range of 4x4 tyres for vehicles dating back to 1948 right up to the present day. We are stockists of Allmakes, Bearmach, Britpart and genuine Land Rover parts, with over 17,000 stocklines. We offer a daily delivery service across Norfolk and north Suffolk and aim to deliver within 24 hours of receiving your order.

A home you love for less

by Lucy Heavens and Danielle Day

Styling your home on a budget without breaking the bank can be a tricky task. However, here are some of the key pieces from our current collection we love which can help create that fresh new look as we transition into spring/summer.

Using a fresh colour palette and layering textures adds a touch of zest into your room. Looking for more advice and guidance, book a free appointment with one of our expert Home Design Stylists in store or scan the QR code to book your appointment today.

John

John

John

John

John

All items are available on www.johnlewis.com and instore, visit John Lewis, Norwich & Ipswich All prices are correct at time of print.

1. John Lewis Anyday, linear leaf linen blend cushion, nettle, £20

2. John Lewis, diamonds cushion, saffron, £30

3. John Lewis Anyday, sunset cushion, ecru, £20

Lewis Anyday, Issie easyto-fit paper ceiling shade, dusty green, £30

Lewis Anyday, elevation throw, mustard, £35

Lewis Anyday, ceramic bulbholder table lamp, pale pink, £25

Lewis, matt finish earthenware vase, H41cm, green, £45

Lewis, white pattern seagrass basket, £25

9. John Lewis Anyday, dime accent chair, light wood frame, cream boucle, £349

Specialist nursery offering a large range of ornamental grasses, unusual perennials, ferns, shade lovers, shrubs and climbers. Plants for all year round interest. With growing areas for shade, woodland edge and an inner courtyard of sun loving plants, plus a new showcase area of the best seasonal varieties. There’s plenty to choose from to enhance your garden!

Nursery open: Wednesday-Friday 10am to 4pm (Othertimesavailablebyappointmentonly)

Mail order plants also available Plus a click & collect service via our website 08456 430921

All landscaping tasks undertaken

Specialising in water features and driveways

All landscaping tasks undertaken

Perfectly based on the Suffolk/Norfolk border but covering all of the UK

We also offer a bespoke Planting Design Service!

www.perfectplantings.co.uk

Woodforde Farm, Weston Green Road, Weston Longville, Norfolk, NR9 5LG

Check our website for directions

Specialising in water features and driveways

Perfectly based on the Suffolk/Norfolk border but covering all of the UK

All landscaping tasks undertaken

Specialising in water features and driveways

Perfectly based on the Suffolk/Norfolk border but covering all of the UK

Gardening with Tom Strowlger

delight us all the way to the first frost in autumn. Dahlia thrive in well-drained soil with full sun.

The green shooting vines of climbers like passiflora, clematis, jasmine, wisteria and honeysuckle should be tied and supported onto a trellis, fence, arch or wall. We can use green string, plant rings and wire to secure the new vines. We need to train our climbers to look neat and tidy, grow into the shape we want and of course successfully flower, plus prevent vine and branch damage on windier days.

The seeds we sow and the plants we grow will need to be kept moist to keep them happily growing throughout the warmer months. During any hot spells we should water our plants early in the morning or later in the evening, this

Tom Strowlger @garden_with_tom

Thelast of month of meteorological spring is upon us and the darling buds of May are all around. May brings us gardeners such joy and pleasure, the longer and warmer days really do bring our gardens to life. We can be outside so much more and get excited about summertime being just around the corner. However, before getting to comfortable in our sun lounger, the preparation for our summer garden isn’t quite done so let’s use this month to tick a few more jobs off our gardening list.

Early May is the last call for planting out summer bulbs, corms, rhizomes and tubers, including dahlia, begonia, gladioli and freesia, not least because they need some time in the ground to fully establish so to achieve a lovely flower display during the peak summer season. Dahlia is a favourite of mine and they can be planted early this month to get a summer flower display that will

ensures the water gets into the ground and evaporation is minimised. Do remember to water at the base of plants and not the leaves downwards, so to get the water into the root systems and prevent disease.

The lawn grass is now enjoying warmer soil so we can cut it weekly, but not too short as we want the grass to flourish in the summer months. A longer grass leaf supports a healthier lawn, as the longer the grass the better the lawn can cope with dry spells. If you have any bare patches in your lawn, then hand sow grass seed into patches to ensure germination in time for summertime.

Many of the spring bulbs will have flowered and flourished and be at the end of their flowering season as we gently transition from springtime into summertime, therefore we can deadhead spent flowers but let the green leaves die back naturally as they will be catching the sunlight to store energy for next year’s flower display. You can also carefully lift and divide any overcrowded daffodils and spring flowering bulbs and plant into new areas of the garden ready for next springs flower display.

As a passionate gardener I love the month of May because we can look back on our springtime gardening achievements with a jolly smile and look forward to what summertime will bring us. Please do follow me on Instagram @garden_with_tom for more seasonal gardening advice and tips.

May

TOP TIPS

Keep pulling up fast growing weeds by the roots

Support your tall and delicate plants with plant supports and canes

Open greenhouse windows and doors on warm days

Keep the bird bath topped up

Treat wooden garden furniture

The lawn grass is now enjoying warmer soil so we can cut it weekly, but not too short as we want the grass to flourish in the summer months

Achieving a beautiful and healthy lawn can be a daunting task, however, with the right techniques it is possible. Follow these top-tips and you’ll have a lush, green lawn that will be the envy of your neighbours.

Looking Lush

instructions and avoid using herbicides on windy days to prevent drift onto neighbouring plants.

SCARIFYING

Scarifying is the process of removing dead grass and other debris from the lawn. This can be done with a rake or a scarifier machine. Scarifying once a year in the autumn helps to promote healthy grass growth and prevent thatch build-up.

SEEDING

A lush,green lawn can be a source of pride for any homeowner, but achieving and maintaining that perfect lawn can be a challenge. Fortunately, with the right tools, products, and techniques, you can achieve a beautiful lawn that will be the envy of your neighbours. In this guide, we will discuss how to care for your lawn in the UK and get the best results.

MOWING

Mowing is one of the most important aspects of lawn care. The frequency of mowing depends on the season and the weather. During the growing season (spring and summer), you should mow your lawn once a week, while in the autumn and winter, you can reduce the frequency to once every two weeks. Make sure to never cut more than onethird of the grass height in one mowing, as this can stress the grass and lead to a poor appearance. Always use a sharp blade and mow when the grass is dry.

WATERING

Watering is also crucial to maintain a healthy lawn. Water your lawn deeply and infrequently rather than frequently and lightly. This encourages deep root growth and helps the grass become more drought-tolerant. Watering in the early morning or evening is the best time, as the sun is not as strong and the water has time to soak into the soil before evaporating.

FERTILIZING

Fertilizing is necessary to provide your lawn with the necessary nutrients it needs to grow and remain healthy. A slow-release fertilizer applied twice

a year (in spring and early autumn) is suffi cient for most lawns. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and never over-fertilize, as this can lead to excessive growth and increase the risk of disease.

If your lawn has bare patches or thin areas, over-seeding can help to thicken the grass and fill in the gaps. Choose a seed mix that is appropriate for your soil type and growing conditions, and sow the seed in the autumn or spring. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and keep the seed moist until it germinates.

AERATING

Aerating is the process of punching small holes in the soil to allow air, water, and nutrients to penetrate deeper into the soil. This can be done manually with a garden fork or with a mechanical aerator. Aerating once a year is sufficient for most lawns.

WEEDING

Weeding is essential to maintain a healthy lawn. Weeds compete with grass for nutrients, water, and sunlight, which can lead to a weak and patchy lawn. Handpulling weeds is the most effective way to remove them, but herbicides can also be used. Always follow the manufacturer’s

In conclusion, maintaining a beautiful lawn requires regular maintenance and attention to detail. By following these tips and using the right products and equipment, you can achieve the lush, green lawn of your dreams. Remember to always read the instructions carefully and take the necessary safety precautions when using chemicals and equipment.

Water your lawn deeply and infrequently rather than frequently and lightly. This encourages deep root growth and helps the grass become more drought-tolerant.

AT BROADLAND HEARING CARE YOU ARE OUR MAIN PRIORITY. WE OFFER BESPOKE HEARING SOLUTIONS, COMBINED WITH TAILORED CUSTOMER SERVICE TO MAKE SURE YOUR REQUIREMENTS ARE ALWAYS MET.

PLATINUM PROMISE

COMPREHENSIVE EVALUATION

At Broadland Hearing Care, we evaluate your hearing, your communication needs and the goals for your life.

RECOMMEND ONLY WHAT NEEDS RECOMMENDING

We recommend a treatment plan that is unique to you and designed to meet your needs.

A CLEAR UNDERSTANDING OF THE JOURNEY AND THE RESULTS

We make sure that you understand what steps will be taken on your journey to better hearing and what the realistic outcomes are of those steps.

TREATMENT IS MORE THAN JUST AN OFFICE VISIT

We work with you to create a long-term treatment plan, regular ongoing evaluations and any additional care that you may need to make sure you stay satisfied with your hearing in the years to come.

SEEING AND HEARING THE BENEFIT

We verify that the hearing instruments and any accessories that go with them are working to provide the benefit you need.

BROADLAND HEARING CARE COMMIT TO YOU FOR A LIFETIME

All Audibel products will receive FREE cleaning and testing for their lifetime.

Barry Jones is a highly-skilled Audiologist with over 15 years in the profession.

At Broadland Hearing Care we pride ourselves on understanding your needs and take our time to get to know you, so that we can offer you a solution that complements your lifestyle. So

Able Community Care has been in the same family for four decades and now provides live-in care services throughout the UK.

Since 1980 we have provided care and have met with thousands of families who are seeking an alternative to moving into a residential care home.

Meeting people inevitably leads, either at the time of an assessment or even years later, to questions for which people are looking for answers.

Information around all aspects of care is available but the road to finding out, especially at a time of crisis, about specific factors can be difficult and stressful. Able Community Care receives calls and emails on a regular basis with people asking if we can help with their search for information.

Recently these questions have been asked of us...

Question: My husband and I are in our 70’s and have, during our working lives, been employed by several companies and businesses. We were wondering if we had paid into any pension schemes, but we cannot really remember. How can we find out?

Answer: One way in which you can find out is by going to: The Pension Tracing Service on GOV.UK. This free service traces a pension you’ve lost track of, even if you don’t have the contact details of the pension provider.

If a person has forgotten about old bank accounts, current and/or savings, or have lost track of any Premium Savings Bonds, (where combined it is estimated billions of pounds are lying unclaimed), you can visit www.moneysavingexpert.com where you can complete a free form to trace any that are lying dormant and the website has further helpful information relevant to a search.

Ask Angela

Gifford, Managing Director of Able Community Care, answers your

questions...

Question: A friend in her late 80’s has reduced mobility and finds climbing the stairs to her bathroom extremely difficult. Would she be eligible for a free, stair lift?

Answer: You could possibly get a Disabled Facilities Grant from your Council which can cover improving access to rooms and facilities, for example with a stairlift, or level access shower. (Available in England and Wales only).

To get the grant, you, or someone else living in the house:

• Must have a disability.

• Intend to live in the property during the grant period (usually 5 years but this can be shorter, for example, if the person is terminally ill).

The council needs to be happy that the work is:

• necessary and appropriate to meet the disabled person’s needs.

• reasonable and can be done, depending on the age and condition of the property.

The person wishing to claim the Grant will receive a care needs assessment from the local council. Disabled Facilities Grants (DFGs) are awarded through financial means testing and a person may or may not be asked to contribute.

Question: Can you get free incontinence products on the NHS?

Answer: You may be able to get incontinence products on the NHS depending on your local integrated care board (ICB). To qualify for NHS products, you may need to be assessed by a healthcare professional. (ICB’s are: statutory bodies that are responsible for planning and funding most NHS services in a local area)

Angela

Extracorporeal Magnetotransduction Therapy (EMTT) is a non-invasive treatment solution that has been specially developed for treating musculoskeletal pain such as: osteoarthritis, lumbago, herniated discs, inflammation etc.

Radial and focused shockwave therapies are highly effective treatments for conditions such as:

• Myofascial Pain Syndromes

• Plantar Fasciitis

• Achilles Tendinopathy

• Calcific Tendonitis

• Hamstring Tendinopathy

• Tennis Elbow

• Men’s Health (ED)

Looking

Boxing Classes

This month we’re talking about boxing-based fitness classes. There are lots of them around, but what do they actually involve? Are they as scary as they sound? Will you end up covered in bruises? Keep reading for the run down…

There are many boxing based fitness classes available, arguably the most recognisable name in boxing fitness is Boxercise®, which is now over 30 years old. The format was developed by boxing coach Andy Wake, and uses real boxing and kickboxing techniques, adapted to make them safe, appropriate and effective for the everyday person.

There’s no sparring involved, and no ring so you won’t be ‘fighting’ with anyone. Instead the classes use pads and gloves. Usually this will be combined with a range of resistance and cardio exercises to give you a great full-body workout. Expect to be doing things like squats, lunges, shuttle runs, sit-ups etc.

If you’ve not done anything like this before, don’t be surprised to find yourself pretty out of breath! Boxing is a surprisingly good cardio workout! Because of this you can generally expect it to be a fairly high intensity session.

CAN ANYONE DO IT?

Yes! There are so many excellent benefits to be gained from boxing, it really is great for everyone. If you have specific health conditions you should always discuss these with the class instructor to ensure that any necessary adjustments can be made. Chantel

continued on page 50 ➤

I'm a 41 year old mother of two and Personal Fitness coach. I work one to one, in person & online with clients aged 18-80. My specialisms include pre and postnatal training, cancer rehab, pilates, and GP exercise referrals. I run fitness classes online and in person in the Suffolk Coastal area. I am also a Mental Health First aider.

There’s no sparring involved, and no ring so you won’t be ‘fighting’ with anyone.

Photos: Bob Foyers

Is it the same thing as BodyCombat® or combat fitness classes?

No. Generally combat style classes tend to be choreographed to music. Think Jane Fonda meets the Karate Kid! You’ll usually stay in one spot, following an instructor and punching and kicking the air in time with the music.

SO WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS?

Improve your cardiovascular fitness. It’s a real pulse raiser, so it’s a great way to boost your heart health.

Build confidence. Landing some good solid punches on the pads feels incredibly empowering, as does being surrounded by a class of supportive people!

Manage and reduce stress and anxiety. The evidence is clear, exercise of all types is key for mental health, but the action of hitting the pads just seems to add that little something extra when it comes to stress relief!

Improve agility, balance and

reaction times

There is plenty of foot work, pivoting and ducking and diving involved, so your agility and balance will get a

workout too.

Build a stronger core

Believe it or not, your whole body is used to throw each punch (not just your arms), so your core gets a great workout too.

It’s really fun!

In my class the focus is always on a workout that is effective, while being fun! In most of these types of classes you can expect fun fitness

games and drills.

Make new friends.

Generally you work in pairs (one holding

Make pairs (one holding pads, and one

endurance gradually.

Build endurance and stamina. You’ll usually work in short bursts or ‘rounds’ for a minute or two at a time, so it’s a good way to start building endurance gradually.

Improve coordination.

There is quite a bit of technique to learn, so you’ll soon be combining your jabs, crosses, hooks and uppercuts, challenging both your physical and mental coordination.

punching), so you get to know the other class members pretty well!

Help with neurological conditions. Because of many of the benefits listed above, fitness boxing is now widely used to help improve and manage symptoms in people diagnosed with conditions such as Parkinson’s disease.

So for a great workout, with multiple physical and mental health benefits, look no further!

In my class the focus is always on a workout that is effective, while being fun! In most of these types of classes you can expect fun fitness games and drills.

It’s a real pulse raiser, so it a great way to boost your heart health

Photo:BobFoyers