Eastlife February 2017 by Thompson Media Partners Ltd

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February 2017

Living life in the East

FEBRUARY 2017

Make the most of where you live

SAVE THE DATE

Issue 141

all the details you need to plan your wedding day

The Love & Luck Collection starting from Â£250

Be amongst the first to preview this outstanding collection of just seven individually designed 4, 5 & 6 bedroom detached properties within walking distance of Woodbridge town centre. Prices from £950,000 to £1,650,000.

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W&M SMITH

Roses are red, violets are blue, I have been to W & M Smith, have you? Well if you have not been to the Pightle Barn you do not know what you are missing out on.

So, at the Pightle Barn, Spring has sprung with little chicks and rabbits, eggs and nests, silk narcissus, iris, crocus, primulas, cherry blossom is now all out on show.

Valentine’s Day is the theme for the time being, with artificial red roses in silk, velvet and foam either as single stems, bunches and posies. Heart shapes are in abundance from tiny table sprinkles, to large wicker ones. But it does not end there as there is a choice of other types too. Wood, slate, polystyrene, felt. sisal, blackboard, diamante, candles as well as hearts made from silk foliage. For the cake decorator, you will find cake boards, cake dummies and sugar decorations in all shapes and sizes including, yes you have guessed it hearts. If you are planning a Valentines party we also stock balloons and the helium gas canisters to hire, banners and ribbons.

Away from the seasonal items there is a new range of concrete pots and containers just arrived as well as patterned galvanised buckets and troughs. Ribbons are always changing and here too some new ones. Fresh designs of napkins and novelty toilet rolls are here too, so there is plenty to whet your appetite at this Aladdin’s cave in Middlewood Green.

St David’s Day is on the 1st March and St Patricks Day the 17th, so if you are wanting silk daffodils or having an Irish themed party, come along and you will again find quite a choice. But the next main event is Mother’s Day on March 26th and Easter mid-April.

W & M Smith can now be found on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Special offers will be posted here so keep an eye out to see the bargain of the month is. Come in during February wearing a red ribbon and get 5% off all your purchases. Look forward to seeing you all soon……………

For all those special occasions in your life...

Visit our showroom for your floral artistry and craft needs. Pightle Barn, Blacksmiths Lane, Middlewood Green, Stowmarket IP14 5EU

Party Accessories

Silk Flowers

Candles & Holders

Wicker Decorations

Open Monday & Thursday 10am - 7pm; Tuesday, Wednesday & Friday 10am - 5pm. Also selected Saturdays and Sundays 10 - 4 (please call to check)

www.wandmsmith.co.uk Tel: 01449 711014 Fax: 01449 711815

GLC Coupé: Opening doors to a new segment

The all-new GLC Coupé offers stability and control in all conditions courtesy of the all-wheel drive 4MATIC system, while a sports suspension provides agile handling. Striking a perfect balance between the fluid lines of a sports Coupé and the all-action athleticism of an SUV, the GLC Coupé is a car that simply demands to be driven. Contact your nearest Robinsons Mercedes-Benz retailer to arrange a test drive today.

Representative example GLC 220 d 4MATIC AMG Line including optional metallic paint 36 monthly payments of*(Term of agreement) On-the-road price Customer deposit Retailer deposit contribution Optional final payment† Total amount of credit Total amount payable†† Option to purchase fee† Representative APR Fixed interest rate

£439.04 £43,185 £7,999 £336 £23,425 £34,850.50 £47,575.44 £10 5.1% 4.96%

Official government fuel consumption figures in mpg (litres per 100km) for the new GLC Coupé range: urban 25.9(10.9)-49.6(5.7), extra urban 40.4(7.0)-60.1(4.7), combined 33.6(8.4)-56.5(5.0). CO2 emissions 192-131 g/ km. Official EU-regulated test data are provided for comparison purposes and actual performance will depend on driving style, road conditions and other non-technical factors. Whilst this offer is only available through Mercedes-Benz Finance, we do arrange finance behalf of other finance companies as well. Model featured is a new Mercedes-Benz GLC 220 d 4MATIC AMG Line £43,185 on-the-road including optional metallic paint (on-the-road price includes VAT, delivery, 12 months’ Road Fund Licence, number plates, first registration fee and fuel). Specification imagery may show optional features. Content relating to finance is promoted by Mercedes-Benz Finance. Your Retailer may offer finance on behalf of other companies. *Finance offer based on a GLC 220 d 4MATIC AMG Line on a Mercedes-Benz Agility Agreement, on 10,000 miles per annum. Vehicle condition, excess mileage and other charges apply. †Payable if you exercise the option to purchase the car. ††Includes optional purchase payment, purchase activation fee and Retailer deposit contribution. Orders/credit approvals on selected GLC Coupé models, between 1 January and 31 March 2017, registered by 30 June 2017. Guarantees may be required. Offers cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. Some combinations of features/ options may not be available. Credit provided subject to status by Mercedes-Benz Finance, MK15 8BA. Prices, fuel consumption and CO2 emissions correct at time of production.

The best or nothing.

Robinsons Mercedes-Benz Mercedes-Benz of Bury St Edmunds 01284 769676 Mercedes-Benz of Cambridge 01223 401100 Mercedes-Benz of Kings Lynn 01553 777307

East Life GLC Coupe Ad.indd 1

Mercedes-Benz of Norwich 01603 751000 Mercedes-Benz of Peterborough 01733 294900 www.yourmercedes.co.uk

11/01/2017 14:19

eastlife would like to thank its

CONTRIBUTORS KAYLEIGH THOMAS Shampoo-free blogger GERLA DE BOER Globetrotter foodie

NICOLA OSBORNE Mummy, blogger and frustrated novelist SUE COOKE Motoring journalist TRACEY DEAN Writer and photographer KATE GOULD Award-winning garden designer KATRINA OTTER Wedding planner extraordinaire AMANDA FRENCH Foodie, blogger & PR pro CLAIRE LANCASTER Lifestyle and interior blogger PUBLISHER Sean Thompson sean@eastlife.co.uk - 01954 267696 EDITOR Emma Kemsley emma@eastlife.co.uk - 01954 267904 PRODUCTION MANAGER Craig Lewis craig@eastlife.co.uk - 01954 268142 SOCIAL MEDIA Nicole Ranaweera nicole@eastlife.co.uk - 07921 235539 ACCOUNTS / ENQUIRIES accounts@eastlife.co.uk - 01954 268129 SALES ENQUIRIES Darren Marshall - 07826 628680 Stewart Hedges - 07595 894557 Jim Leishman - 01954 267635 HEAD OFFICE Unit 4, Avenue Business Park, Elsworth Cambridge, CB23 4EY EASTLIFE is published by Thompson Media Partners Ltd. All rights reserved. Reproduction, in part or in whole, without the written permission of the publisher is strictly prohibited. The views expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of the publisher. All times, prices and dates of events were correct at the time of going to press but readers are advised to ring and check before setting out. Printed by Buxton Press.

A MESSAGE FROM THE EDITOR Dear Reader Winter is officially here. Cold blustery days are making us want to hide under the duvet, but luckily some of our favourite attractions and restaurants are offering a warm haven to escape hibernation. Check out this month’s area focus section; we’ve picked market towns that have stylish boutiques and cosy coffee shops, perfect for escaping the cold. It wouldn’t be February without a little love. Love it or loathe it, we have some great ideas for Valentine’s Day. Whether you’re planning on eating out or staying at home with a bottle of wine, tuck into our food and drink pages for inspiration. Talking of love, this issue is our ‘Wedding Special’. If you’re newly engaged (congratulations) or are well into planning your big day, we’ve got lots of tips and advice from the experts. Trends, tackling venue hire and picking your dream dress, it’s all covered! Happy reading! Emma Kemsley

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01/12/2016 17:58

FEBRUARY 15-19 NEWS FLASH A round-up of monthly news and events

CONTENTS

23-27 LOVE IS IN THE AIR Valentine’s Day ideas 28-29 FAIRTRADE FORTNIGHT The region’s fairest traders 35-37 DOG-FRIENDLY Tails About Town & Norfolk restaurants 39-43 LITTLE EAST Mum’s the Word and half term fun 45-49 EDUCATION School open day special 53-59 FOOD & DRINK News, the Cambridge Foodie, pancakes and wines to fall in love with 61-65 HEALTH Beauty hacks and adult orthodontics

67 FASHION Do your clothes make you happy? 69-79 WEDDINGS Wedding planning special 87-99 INTERIORS Conservatories and gardens 101-103 ARTS Monthly column and the latest news 105-111 SUFFOLK A guide to Beccles and Bungay 113-119 NORFOLK Secret Norfolk and Harleston 121-127 BEDS, BUCKS & HERTS Olney Pancake Race and theatre listings 129-135 CAMBRIDGESHIRE The Cambridge Scene and St Ives 137-143 ESSEX Shopping in Dunmow and Saffron Walden

31 81

85 146

FIRST DRIVE: The Q30 is a new car from Infiniti, built in Britain to compete with more familiar prestige brands. The emphasis is on comfort and refinement, with more than a hint of performance, making the Q30 an interesting (if left-field) choice for buyers looking for a premium hatchback.

The largest diesel is the plum choice though. A combination of strong performance, innovative sound insulation and active noise reduction mitigates the effect that using the performance has on the serenity of the cabin. This version is also available in all-wheel drive, which helps the overall roadholding and sense of stability.

There’s no doubt the Infiniti Q30 is a good-looking car. It’s distinct from anything else on theroad, with strong, muscular lines and heavy haunches that differentiate it from the ubiquitous ‘soft roader’ shape. Being lower, it’s less aggressive and the profile seems more coupe-like.

The sportiest model, the 2.0-litre petrol ‘Sport’, produces 209bhp. This puts it firmly in the ‘warm hatch’ category, though it doesn’t quite compete with hard-core performance-orientated hatchbacks from rivals.

The Q30’s 368-litre boot is bigger than that of a BMW 1 Series, and the passenger compartment feels roomy. Headroom is adequate but passengers in the rear who are over 6’ 3” may find it a little cramped.

The Q30 starts at £20,550 for the two-wheel-drive 1.6i. The 2.2-litre diesel starts at £24,700 – the comfortable ride, impressive turn of speed, good roadholding and quiet cabin make this a good-value choice.

It looks good inside too. The interiors in the Q30 are all pleasant – a mixture of leathers and tasteful soft plastics make it a comfortable space. Controls feel well constructed and the layout is straightforward and conventional.

A premium hatchback is hard to get right for the mainstream manufacturers but Infiniti has produced something that could be something of a winner. British-built, rare, good looking and fine value, the Q30 is a car for someone who wants comfort and style but who doesn’t necessarily crave the badge recognition of the big German brands.

Fire up the engine and the 1.5-litre diesel fitted to our first test car proves much quieter than you might expect from a diesel. It produces a comparatively modest 108bhp, but is perfectly adequate for most driving and delivers the best fuel economy, with 65.7mpg possible.

FACTS AT A GLANCE Infiniti Q30 2.2d Sport, from £29,380 Engine: 2.1-litre turbodiesel producing 167bhp Transmission: Seven-speed dual-clutch automatic Performance: Top speed 134mph, 0-60mph in 8.3sec Fuel economy: 55.4mpg Emissions: 133g/km

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NEWS FLASH

e-Luminate Festival

SEE CAMBRIDGE IN A NEW LIGHT Taking ‘Play’ as this year’s theme, e-Luminate Cambridge Festival will amaze and delight from 10-15 February in a winter spectacle, with six exceptional nights of dazzling light installations created by local and international artists. Now in its fifth year, the event at the forefront of art and technology, ephemeral light art installations play with the richness and diversity of the urban landscape, transforming everyday buildings and spaces for a few short hours into something extraordinary and magical. All of the outdoor installations can be found around the city and are completely free to explore. Coinciding with the public switch-on of e-Luminate Cambridge on Friday 10 February, a Night Market will host a number of local arts and crafts, live entertainment, and food stalls in the city’s market square. New for 2017’s festival will be three special events at the Corn Exchange and Guildhall including Dark and Light on 10 February at the Corn Exchange; a multi-sensory journey through darkness to the light, performed by New York dancer Giorgia Bova with jazz pianist Andrea Manzoni and Cambridge’s musical collective, We Are Sound, using voices and instruments to get under the skin of some of the world’s best tracks.

e-Luminate Festival

Hologram & Light Painting Workshops on 12 February at the Guildhall offer the opportunity to make your own hologram, combining physics, art and chemistry, while the Light Painting Workshop is a great introduction to photography, using light to paint stunning effects. At the Cambridge Corn Exchange and Cambridge Guildhall, on 13 February a Play of Light will host five sessions exploring creativity, games, innovation, play - and light! e-Luminate Cambridge and co-curator Pat Kane have brought together a collection of writers, performers, artists, academics, gamers and scientists for this special one-off event. Tickets are available to attend all or individual sessions. Festival director, Alessandra Caggiano said: “I am particularly excited about the theme of ‘Play of Light’ as it allows us to shine a light onto two very important aspects of Cambridge which we had not yet fully engaged with in previous years: gaming and sports.” Tickets for each event are available from cambridgelivetickets.co.uk or box office 01223 357851. www.eluminatecambridge.co.uk

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Richard Allington Kitchens FREE NO OBLIGATION QUOTES & SURVEYS

We now offer a supply only made to measure service at superstore prices Tel: 01953 459817 Mob: 07754 630453 14 Connaught Road, Attleborough

‘Wings’, alongside tracks from their new album ‘Glory Days’. Little Mix will be joining the likes of Olly Murs on 18 August and Jess Glynne on 26 August, who have also been confirmed as acts for this summer’s line-up.

LITTLE MIX RETURN TO NEWMARKET NIGHTS Newmarket Racecourses and The Jockey Club Live have announced that Little Mix will be returning to the July Course on 23 June 2017.

Amy Starkey, regional director East of Jockey Club Racecourses said: “We are very excited to confirm Little Mix as our next Newmarket Nights act for 2017 and look forward to welcoming them back to Newmarket Racecourses this June. After a fantastic show last August, when performing to a sold out crowd, I have no doubt we will be in store for another brilliant performance whereby racegoers will be treated to an extensive set including some of their most popular chart topping hits.”

Having sold-out their appearance at 2016’s Summer Saturday Live months ahead of the event, fans are advised to act quick to secure one of the hottest tickets of the summer.

Tickets are priced starting at £31 for adults and £13 per child (under 18). Child tickets are limited. There will be hospitality packages available to suit all budgets.

Little Mix will perform their signature hits, including ‘Shout Out to My Ex’, ‘Black Magic’, ‘Hair’ and

Tickets are now on sale at www.thejockeyclublive.co.uk.

JOSIE LONG TOUR DATES Following the international sell-out success of her previous show ‘Cara Josephine’ across the UK, Europe, Australia and New York, the star of BBC Radio 4’s Romance and Adventure, All of the Planet’s Wonders and presenter of Short Cuts will tour with her eighth solo stand-up show nationwide in 2017, ’Something Better’. She will be touring the East this month at The Cambridge Junction on 8 February (01223 511 511) and Norwich Playhouse on 18 February (01603 598 598). This is a show about optimism and hopefulness, about looking for people and finding things to look up to. It’s about wanting more from life than it might be up for giving out. It’s about having faith in younger people, friendship, activism and solidarity. Josie has also been busy interviewing activists about what they do and why, so expect some politics! This is an insightful and fun performance worth adding to your diary! Tickets available at www.junction.co.uk and www.norwichplayhouse.co.uk

Credit: Phil Chambers

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BATHE UNDER CAMBRIDGESHIRE SKIES Escape the stress of every day life with ‘Bathing under the Sky’s’ fresh air pop up at Bourn Golf & Leisure. Taking place on selected dates from 25 February, the pop up features wood-fired outdoor spas, a Finnish barrel sauna with cooling shower, chill out area with deckchairs fire-pitches and blankets, and one complimentary drink served to your hot tub. The event will take place come rain or shine on 26 February, 11-12 and 25-26 March, 8-9 April, 29 April – 1 May, and 13-14 and 27 -29 May. Summer dates are still to be announced. During the pop up experience, you can also take advantage of leisure and fitness activities on site, enjoy a walk around the countryside, a round of golf, swimming pool and more. Bathing Under The Sky’s 3-hour sessions are for over 18s only, tickets cost £28 per person. This event is bound to be a sell out so early booking is highly recommended. www.bathingunderthesky.com

so visitors can learn about the castle’s fascinating history. The new café and an extended retail space will be situated on the ground floor of the Poorhouse, where the exhibition currently stands. Meanwhile the Red House, which sits in the grounds of Framlingham Castle, will be utilised for office and storage space and will house the café’s kitchen and service area. Elsewhere on site, annual conservation works will take place to some of the castle’s walls. Framlingham Castle project impression

WORK BEGINS ON £1.2 MILLION VISITOR IMPROVEMENT PROJECT AT FRAMLINGHAM CASTLE A £1.2million visitor improvement and conservation project is underway at one of Suffolk’s best-known tourist attractions. English Heritage has started work on the first phase of a two-stage project at Framlingham Castle, which will see the introduction of a new 40-seat café as well as a new and improved exhibition space. An original mezzanine level will be reinstated in the castle’s Poorhouse to house new interpretation

During the first phase of the project, which is due to be completed in June 2017, a 7.5 metre slide will be installed from the wall walk into the castle’s inner court for visitors to enjoy. Following the first phase of the project, English Heritage is planning to fundraise for a second phase which would see a 360degree wall walk created. Accessibility for disabled visitors and families with buggies would also be improved to the wall walk, with a lift being installed to give them access to a newly-built balcony area. Throughout the project Framlingham Castle will be open at weekends and is due to re-open fully in summer. www.english-heritage.org.uk

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Ford Barns COUNTRY STORE

LIFESTYLE

LOVE IS IN THE AIR Give cupid a helping hand this year with these Valentine’s Day ideas for everyone... ESSEX Stoke by Nayland in Colchester (www.stokebynayland.com) is offering a Valentine’s Day deal this year which combines a romantic three course dinner, red rose and glass of champagne, bubbly and chocolates in your room, a full English breakfast for two and a couples treatment in Peake Spa. All for £135 per person. On Friday 10 February enjoy an evening of tantalising titillation at the castle in Colchester. Learn about some of the naughtier objects in the collections with the curator and work with an artist to create your own ‘love monkey’ – whatever that means. Over 18s only, £5. The Museum of Power in Maldon is a must visit on Sunday 12 February for a special Valentine’s Day afternoon tea. Sit in the splendour of the Museum’s Tea Room within the magnificent seven-acre site with piano and accordion music filling the air. £12.95 per adult.

Written by Amanda French

HERTFORDSHIRE Number One Porthill (www.numberoneporthill.co.uk) is an award-winning luxury B&B in the heart of Hertford, bound to impress your loved one. This Valentine’s Day they are offering a special package of overnight accommodation in a luxurious master bedroom, a sumptuous three course dinner and complimentary bubbly – all for just £160. Enjoy a history of the heart by Dr Steg Eastoe on Saturday 11 February at Verulamium Museum in St Albans and find out more about this enduring and universal symbol of love. An illustrated journey exploring the history of the heart across cultures, times and place, there’s no better way to celebrate Valentine’s Day. Entry £3.

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BEDFORDSHIRE The Woburn Hotel (www.thewoburnhotel.co.uk) is the perfect setting for a romantic getaway. The Ultimate Woburn Valentine’s Getaway gives guests a two-night stay in an individually designed double room with chocolates, bottle of Champagne, a fourcourse meal (excluding drinks) at the renowned Olivier’s Restaurant and breakfast. Entry to Woburn Safari Park on one day during your stay for two is also included in the £445. Alternatively take a visit to Wyboston Lakes (www.wybostonlakes.co.uk) for a romantic getaway this year on their special offer which includes overnight accommodation and a full English breakfast, a bottle of prosecco in the room on arrival, a four-course dinner, a thermal spa experience for four hours and a spa lunch. From £105 per person. Head to the Dunstable Downs (www.nationaltrust.org.uk) on 11 February from 7pm – 9pm for a perfect Valentine’s evening of stargazing. Discover the wonders of the universe at Dunstable Downs with Dark Sky Wales and their incredible indoor planetarium. Experienced astronomers will have telescopes set up to take you on an adventure across the night sky. £15 per person.

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CAMBRIDGESHIRE The Bull Hotel in Peterborough (www.peelhotels.co.uk/ hotels/bull-hotel-peterborough-cambridgeshire-england) has a special Valentine’s Deal which includes two nights in an executive room with a full English each morning, rose petals on the bed, chocolates in the room, a three course dinner on one night and a candlelit dinner on the 11 February with a glass of prosecco on arrival. £242 for two people. From the 10 – 15 February the e-Luminate Festival arrives in Cambridge. Enjoy a romantic walk with your loved one through breath-taking light installations throughout the city, created by artists, designers and technologists. Visit www.e-luminatefestivals.co.uk for more information. NORFOLK The Park Farm Hotel (www.parkfarm-hotel.co.uk) on the outskirts of Norwich is offering a Valentine’s Day package with chilled champagne in your room with a Gnawfolk chocolate hamper and fruit bowl, with rose petals scattered on the bed. Also included is a five-course dinner and breakfast the morning after from £249 per night.

Head to The Cliff Hotel (www.thecliﬀhotel.co.uk) in Great Yarmouth, on the 14 February to enjoy Swoon & Croon, a night celebrating the sounds of Frank Sinatra, Michael Buble, Frankie Valli and more. Includes a three-course meal, a glass of bubbly and a disco. £33.95 per person. SUFFOLK The Bull Inn (www.bullinn-bartonmills.com) in Barton Mills has a Valentine’s Day break package available this year. Enjoy a two-night break with a Valentine’s Day dinner, a full English with bucks fizz, rose petals on the bed, a flower on your pillow, homemade chocolate truffles and a gift pack of toiletries from Watkins of Suffolk for £149 per person. Ufford Park (www.uﬀordpark.co.uk) in Woodbridge is hosting a Valentine’s Day dinner and Michael Buble Tribute on Saturday 11 February. Enjoy a three course dinner followed by live music and then sounds from the resident DJ. £42 per person. For something a bit different and sure to set you alight with passion…why not be brave and join the Stroke Association for their hot coals Valentine’s Day challenge on Sunday 19 February. Tel: 01284 848609 to find out more.

eastlife.co.uk

LOVE VA L E N T I N E ’S DAY W I SH L I S T

The most romantic day of the year is almost here. Ladies, take a look at our pick of pretty little things, and start dropping some hints… (Clockwise from top left...) 1. Every girl needs a new coat to see them through spring Price: £99 Stockist: Next, nationwide

4. Add a little colour to date night with stylish heels Price: £40 Stockist: very.co.uk

2. The perfect travel accessory for a mini-break Price: £16 Stockist: Cath Kidston, Castle Street, Norwich

5. Valentine’s Day wouldn’t be complete without new lingerie Price: Bra £35, Briefs £25 Stockist: House of Fraser, nationwide

3. Nothing says love quite like jewellery Price: £75 Stockist: Karen Millen, Cambridge

6. Step into spring in style with this floral bag Price: £29 Stockist: Accessorize, nationwide

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MAKE IT FAIRTRADE THE EAST OF ENGLAND COMES TOGETHER TO SUPPORT FAIRTRADE FORTNIGHT

Written by Kayleigh Thomas

Fairtrade isn’t just about bananas and coffee beans. From the clothes on our backs to the furniture in our homes, awareness of human exploitation and the impact of our purchasing decisions is higher than ever. In the wake of tragedies like the 2013 Rana Plaza building collapse in Bangladesh, which housed five garment factories supplying global brands and killed 1,135 people, fast fashion has come under pressure with social media users asking brands #WhoMadeMyClothes. And with more and more people taking an interest in their health, so has risen the scrutiny of the use of chemical pesticides and intensive farming practices, along with the exploitation of workers and animals that comes with cheap food prices. Fairtrade Fortnight offers an antidote to the world’s ills, connecting campaigners, businesses, schools and places of worship to the farmers and workers in developing countries who grow our food and make our garments. This year’s campaign has a brand new message: ‘Don’t Feed Exploitation. Choose Fairtrade’, and between Monday 27 February and Sunday 12 March 2017 it’s going to be easier than ever for us to make conscious purchasing choices. Adam Gardner, Communities Campaigns Manager for the Fairtrade Foundation, said: “Whether in the UK or in Malawi, no one deserves to be shortchanged for a hard day’s work. When we choose the cheapest products, we may be unconsciously feeding exploitation. We become part of the problem, but we can make a conscious choice to be

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part of the solution and support trade that is fair. “Throughout our two-week campaign, local businesses, Fairtrade Towns and campaigners across the East of England will be encouraging people to put Fairtrade in their breaks, choose Fairtrade when they shop and ask more stores to stock Fairtrade products.” A Fairtrade certified purchase is your guarantee that the product is traded in a more ethical way – meaning safe working conditions, better livelihoods and better protection for the environment. Malcolm Wallace from Chelmsford City’s Fairtrade Campaign said: “Fairtrade sales have grown year after year but there is so much more to be done. If we want to act directly to improve the lives of people in the developing world, then purchase products that carry the Fairtrade logo.” He couldn’t be more right. The East of England is home to many fantastic local, family-owned Fairtrade businesses - here are just some of our favourites:

Ipswich Fair Trade Shop

Suffolk-based Odylique has one of the UK’s largest ranges of certified organic skincare and their handmade products are free from parabens, phthalates, artificial fragrances, petroleum, mineral oil, glycols, sulphates and other potentially toxic chemicals. Rawr Chocolate has been producing delicious organic, ethical chocolate bars since starting out in a Cambridge kitchen several years ago. Their raw, dairy-free chocolates contain all the beneficial enzymes found in unprocessed cacao whilst adding none of the refined sugar, artificial ingredients, chemical preservatives, emulsifiers or colourings found in many commercial chocolate bars. The Just Traid Centre is a charity working towards alleviating poverty in developing countries by buying and selling Fairtrade goods in Suffolk. The organisation is completely self-financed and, along with the generosity of around 170 volunteers, a successful shop and café has been developed. Just Traid is working towards Bury St Edmunds becoming a Fairtrade town.

Traders Fair in Colchester is an independent, notfor-profit Fairtrade shop run entirely by volunteers. The store has been trading since 1995 and is proud to be a founding member of BAFTS, The British Association for Fair Trade Shops and Suppliers. The Fair Trade Shop, found near Ipswich’s town centre on Upper Brook Street, believes that while you may come to visit them for their Fairtrade ethos, it’s the quality of their products that will bring you back. Their products are subject to rigorous quality control; for example, some of their food is organically produced, while all processed products are made only with high quality ingredients. The shop is staffed mainly by volunteers and, after expenses, all proceeds are used to stock the shop from a growing number of suppliers, most of whom are members of BAFTS. Fairhaven Wholefoods is a family-run health store found in Letchworth Garden City that stocks many Fairtrade items. With over 3,000 wholefood products, here you’ll find organic produce alongside gluten- and wheat-free, dairy-free, paraben-free, SLS-free and vegan goods. The store also offers eco-friendly products across body care, haircare, feminine care and baby care, as well as natural health supplements and vitamins. 2017 is the perfect time for us to amplify the voices of marginalised producers by buying Fairtrade. By changing how we think about trade and choosing to purchase products that drive positive change, your actions truly transform the lives of farmers and workers all around the world.

Rawr Chocolate

Read more from Kayleigh on her blog www.bluejeanswhiteteeblog.com

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OPEN EVERY DAY OF THE YEAR from

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THRIGBY HALL FILBY GREAT YARMOUTH

N R29 3DR 01493 369477 www.thrigbyhall.co.uk

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PLANET LASER IS NOW OPEN IN BURY ST EDMUNDS... Great fun for anyone aged 6 and over!

Covering over 600sq m our laser arena is one of the biggest in the UK and Europe, spanning 5 levels! We are the first centre in the UK to install the state of the art ‘Helios Pro LaserTag System’ supporting up to 30 players. Membership allows you to track all your games history, scores and achievements and offers exclusive discounts, member nights and events!

AS WELL AS LASER TAG THERE IS PLENTY MORE TO DO .... • Mini BowlingAlley • AmusementArcade

JOIN OUR MEMBERSHIP NOW FOR ONLY £10!

• Air Hockey • PoolTable

You can even refuel and refresh in our very own Cafe Lunar after all the fun!

Keep up to date with news and special offers by following us on Facebook,Twitter and Instagram! Located behind the Fiat Desira Garage, WesternWay, Bury St Edmunds IP33 3SP

For more information or to make a booking please call the Planet Laser team on 01284 220102

TOP places to escape the cold

HIT UP A LOCAL CAFÉ Throughout our region’s cities and market towns is a growing independent coffee scene. Cosy tea rooms and stylish bistros are the place to be! There’s nothing better than sitting down with a fresh brew and homemade cake while the rain hits the windows. Some of our favourites include Fitzbillies and Hot Numbers Coffee in Cambridge, and The Tea House and The Assembly House in Norwich. ANTIQUE FAIRS This month sees the likes of the Blakeney Antique and Collectors Fair, Clare Antiques Fair and Norfolk Showground Antique and Collectors Fair. Spend an afternoon browsing the stalls and finding hidden treasures. JOIN THE LIBRARY When was the last time you stepped foot inside a library? It’s probably been a long time. However, this year, thanks to popular culture influencers, books are back! We’re stepping away from our screens and curling up with a classic. You can find your local library at www.gov.uk/local-library-services

INDEPENDENT CINEMA When its cold and dark outside, get your popcorn and settle down in front of the big screen. There are a number of independent cinemas across the East that offer one off screenings, film festivals and showings of older films. Check out Screen-next-the-Sea in Wells, Saffron Screen in Saffron Walden and Arts Picturehouse in Cambridge. ARTS AND CRAFTS Whether you’re a pro or a beginner, there’s something quite relaxing about crafting. From sewing and knitting to painting and pottery, there are a number of workshops and courses available across the region. Many local studios and galleries hold weekly classes. It’s a great way to pass the time, learn something new and meet new friends. It’s a good idea to check your local town website or TIC to find your nearest class.

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reasons to visit Essex in 2017 2017 IS GOING TO BE VERY EVENTFUL IN ESSEX

With over 2000 years of history, 350 miles of glorious coastline (the longest of any county in the UK) and oodles of culture there’s loads more to Essex than TOWIE – why not come and discover it for yourself? Here are 10 great reasons to visit Essex in 2017: 1. Mayflower 400 is a celebration of the history-defining voyage and a broad range of events, activities and ambitious projects are being planned in the build-up to the 400th anniversary 2020. The star of the show is a faithful recreation of The Mayflower itself, which is being built in Harwich. You can visit the yard and see for yourself how the work is progressing, while learning all about how 17th century shipwrights created ocean-going vessels with none of today’s technology or tools.

2. It’s not only Rio de Janeiro that loves a carnival. Saffron Walden’s from the 7 July is very special. It only takes place once every three years but is one of the UK’s biggest and best. It also lasts for a whopping eight days, culminating with a procession through the town on Saturday 8 July. The following day sees a family fun day held on Saffron Walden’s common, while a number of concerts, gigs and other ‘happenings’ – each day and night from 7 to 15 July – arguably make this Essex’s rival to the Edinburgh Festival and Fringe. www.8dayweekend.co.uk

3. Nature lovers will surely flock to Essex Wildlife Trust’s newly opened intertidal area at Fingringhoe Wick. The 82-acres of new, intertidal habitat are of international, national and local importance. It has been developed by Essex Wildlife Trust in partnership with the Environment Agency. The new area is an extension of the existing 125-acre nature reserve.

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4. Lee Valley Park is celebrating its 50th anniversary. A multitude of different events and activities are planned, including 50 walking and cycling routes throughout the 26-mile park, plus exhibitions highlighting its transformation from a wasteland to verdant expanses rich in wildlife co-existing with world-class sports and leisure facilities. Not only that, Lee Valley Park Farms in Waltham Abbey have their 40th anniversary and will be hosting a series of events to keep the kids happy. www.leevalleypark.org.uk

5. Between 25 - 29 May Epping and Ongar Railway - Essex’s longest heritage railway - will be holding a five-day party to mark its 50th birthday. With a range of different activities, including the chance to relive the golden age of steam in a lovingly restored engine and carriage, this has to be the ultimate train set for kids of all ages. www.eorailway.co.uk

7. Happy Birthday Harlow and Southend! The ‘new town’ of Harlow is 70 in 2017 whilst Southend-on-Sea marks 120 years since the creation of the borough (the seaside town is also the self-proclaimed UK ‘Alternative City of Culture’ in 2017’). There will be a wide variety of events and activities to celebrate in both towns, so keep an eye on www.visitsouthend.co.uk and www.visitharlow.com for the latest information.

6. Horticulturalists are keenly anticipating the official opening of the brand new Edible Global Veg Growth Garden, at RHS Garden Hyde Hall. Also in time for the summer holidays, Hyde Hall is also hosting a series of family-friendly events. ‘The Famous Five’ Go on a Garden Adventure celebrates the 75th anniversary of the first publication of one of Enid Blyton’s most famous and best-loved creations. Throughout the summer (22 July - 11 August) there will be lashings of activities to get involved with, including craft workshops, garden trails, book displays and interactive storytelling. Expect ginger beer and lots of cake. www.rhs.org.uk/hydehall

9. Another UK-wide initiative enjoying local involvement is Friendly Invasions. As part of the national campaign, Boxted and Ridgwell Airfields will commemorate the role American personnel played from these shores during World War Two. Not only that, all the county’s old air bases, memorials and key sites will be highlighted on the Visit Essex website, with one and two-day itineraries for suggested tours.

8. If you love walking, wild places and wildlife then the brand new Passport to the Coast will be an essential part of your year. Effectively a coastal pass for the east coast of England, extending from Hull in Humberside to Thurrock, the Passport is a new travel tool that will allow you to create your own activities simply by watching interactive videos that draw attention to stretches of coastline little explored by most visitors. The themed itineraries will capture touring and active experiences, arts, culture and heritage. It will be available via the Visit Essex website at www.visitessex.com

10. Another national event that will enjoy local engagement is the UK-wide Mills Weekend on 13-14 May. By 1835, wind and water milling in Essex was at its peak, with some 285 in the county. One hundred years later, only a handful remained and by 1950 the last working mill had ceased production. Twelve years beforehand however, Essex County Council had issued orders prohibiting the demolition of seven mills, and in turn, acquired them. Six of these mills have been restored by the Council and most are in working order. As part of Mills Weekend, you can visit Alderford Water Mill at Sible Hedingham, Beeleigh Steam Mill in Maldon, Finchingfield Post Mill, Mountnessing Post Mill, Stock Tower Mill and Thorrington Tide Mill, near Alresford. More at www.nationalmillsweekend.co.uk

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Food – Craft Vintage – Farmers Every Thursday, Saturday, Sunday & Bank Holiday Monday Farmers Market Every 2nd & 4th Saturday

@elymarkets www.elymarkets.co.uk

Offer starts 6th February

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DOG FRIENDLY

Tails About Town Written by Emma Kemsley

SEA, SAND AND SOUTHWOLD! Since our first column we’ve had Christmas (Fletcher is still working his way through a mountain of rawhide bones, in fact he’s currently munching on a Christmas pudding shaped one – hold on, the bone is now on my desk…), we’ve had NYE (Fletcher was a party pooper and put himself to bed), and we’ve had an adventure in Southwold. I like to make the most of our region’s beaches during the winter while they are crowd and children free, and can be enjoyed by our pooches without any restrictions. So on a crisp, blue-skied, sunny January day we took a drive to Southwold, Suffolk. Once out of the car and pulled at Spaniel speed to the beach, Fletcher was let off the lead to run free across the soft sand. The beach is Fletcher’s happy place, he absolutely loves it. Watching him leap and bounce across the sand, always brings a smile to my face and those walking by. We discovered his love for the beach after spending last summer living in Ibiza. It’s where we also discovered Fletcher has some serious swimming skills. It’s not just a quick dip, he’ll swim for hours without a break, dive underwater for stones and dive off worryingly high rocks – he is the Tom Daley of the dog world! I was a little nervous that he’d expect the North Sea to be the same as the Mediterranean and dive straight in, but a quick jump through a wave and dip of the paws, even he realised it was far too cold! After walking for miles along the coastline taking in the stunning skyline, it was a quick stroll along the pier, and through the town for fish and chips! The Little Fish and Chip Shop on East Street has to be one of cutest around. It retains a traditional exterior but has a stylish stamp on the inside, and they are dog-friendly - well they were until Fletcher let loose with his crying and howling because he was too impatient to wait for a sausage! In a bid to get him out as quick as possible, we waited for our freshly cooked haddock and chips and enjoyed them on a bench overlooking the sea while the sun set. I’m starting to think January isn’t so bad…

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Pet-Friendly

RESTAURANTS Deborah Cleland-Harris and her pet pooch sniff out some of the best dog-friendly eateries in Norfolk

As a big foodie and also the owner of a gorgeous Labradoodle pup called Peggy, it’s very important that wherever she goes, they’re enamoured by her and I’m enamoured by their (homemade, ideally locally sourced) food… décor, service and location. I don’t ask for much. So, Peggy’s been having a great time at some of the best establishments around… and whether it be a café, restaurant or pub, there are a couple of important questions I need the answer to… Do they have a dog bowl? Do they really love Peggy? You can assume all the places mentioned here get a big tick in regards to the things mentioned above. RED LION, STIFFKEY The country village of Stiffkey is ‘well’ located next to Wells-next-the-Sea in a lovely village that also has a nice café and craft shop. This fairly traditional pub has a lovely contemporary feel and some friends and I enjoyed a succulent Sunday roast here, something that is surprisingly difficult to find. It was quite busy, so it took a while for the dog bowl to arrive (though there was one outside). There’s also accommodation at the pub. www.stiffkey.com Deborah and Peggy

THE GOLDEN FLEECE, WELLS-NEXT-THE-SEA This is one of my all-time favourite gastropubs, not just for the fantastically warm welcome and endless affection towards my pup – they must spend a small fortune with all the dog treats they give away. The food is great, and when the main meals stop, there’s always the late night freshly made pizza options – the toppings are very nice. But one of the best things about this gastropub is the location and view across stunning Wells harbour. www.goldenfleecewells.co.uk

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THE OLD BOATHOUSE CAFÉ, OLD HUNSTANTON My husband and I recently discovered this fantastic spot by fluke, and it has since (apart from Wells and its beach café) become our favourite place to go on a sunny day. Truly a dog-friendly café, they even make their own dog biscuits with cheese, garlic and eggs – I even had a bite, they’re nice. They serve all-day breakfasts, lasagna, burgers and a children’s menu that includes marmite, peanut butter and Nutella sandwiches. I’m not a kid but I was tempted. The café sits next to the lifeboat station, on the sandy shore by the dunes and beach huts. It doesn’t get much more idyllic than this.

WIVETON FARM CAFÉ, WIVETON If you’ve seen BBC2’s Normal For Norfolk, you’ll know all about Wiveton Hall (a 17th century manor house) and its owner Desmond MacCarthy. He’s an eccentric character and the café, which lies in the grounds is equally colourful and quaint – and it overlooks the mesmerising marshes (minutes from Cley beach). Homegrown fruit and veg is used in the simply delicious food. Fancy a bit of strawberry

Instagram: Wiveton Hall

Old Boat House Cafe

TWO FOR THE PRICE OF ONE! NORWICH There are a couple of recently opened cafes in Norwich that have caught my eye, the first is Carberry cafe serving fab ice creams such as salted caramel and Oreo, great if you’re hanging out in the city in the summer months. While in the winter they serve waffles, and it’s near Norwich Cathedral. My second offering North (the sister venue of Frank’s Bar also in Norwich) is practically opposite in the cool Northern Quarter. Located in an historic old merchant

and raspberry picking? You can do that here and what a fun day out it makes. Plus there are plenty of homemade products to stock your pantry with, chutneys, jams and cordials, and lovely arts and crafts. Feeling spoilt for choice? This could be one of my new favourite places. www.wivetonhall.co.uk/restaurant-cafe

DUN COW, SALTHOUSE A bit busy during bank holiday weekends, our party of four and Peggy still managed to nab a table surprisingly fast. Top tip, if you’re a twosome, ask to sit on one of the two tables with views directly over the marshes. I mean, what a location. For the food, my brother-in-law said I should try something off grid, so I went for the hallloumi chips and herring roe on sourdough bread. I loved the halloumi chips. Meanwhile my husband had the one thing on the menu that reminded him of his childhood – spam chips. The best thing about this gastropub? The waitress said Peggy was the “cutest dog” she’d ever seen. I’ll be coming back. www.salthouseduncow.com

Instagram: Norwich North Bar

house, it has instantly become one of my favourite places not only because of its fantastic homemade food but also for its multifaceted appeal – it’s a bar, café, music and arts venue. There is a lovely continental style courtyard where dogs are allowed, which is great on those warm sunny days. And if you’ve forgotten your fluff of love, there’s a pup mooching around (though who it belongs to is unknown). Hmmm, doggy cafes, why hasn’t anyone invented that?

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EPPING ONGAR RAILWAY

Welcome to High Lodge, Darsham

A Unique Venue

Kids for a Quid during our February Half Term Services

Situated in 100 acres of woodland and delightful countryside, High Lodge offers a range of leisure activities for all the family to enjoy, relaxing short breaks and good food in our refurbished cafe.

The Epping Ongar Railway is the most accessible steam railway by public transport in London - with vintage buses running from right outside of Epping Underground.

This is Golf...give it a try? visit: www.highlodge.co.uk/activities/golf-in-suffolk

This February Half Term child fares are just

Take a look at our website for details of other events during the year.

12-2.30pm every Sunday

Have-a-Go Clay Shooting

Archery

eorailway.co.uk

01277 365200

visit the website www.highlodge.co.uk email info@highlodge.co.uk tel 01986 784347

Epping Ongar Railway

find us just off the A12 near Darsham Suffolk IP17 3QT

eorailway 01277 365200

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Woodbridgeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s top attraction Woodbridge Open Tide Mill y l i a d m is the largest p 5 11am Sept single visitor until attraction in

Woodbridge. It is one of only two working craft tide mills in the country and is a national heritage asset. Discover its fascinating 850 year history, learn about the art of craft milling with grinding stones, and see the huge wooden waterwheel and massive machinery turning - if the tides are right. Play interactive games, and watch the unique CGIs and videos about the mill.

Try its authentic strong stoneground wholemeal ďŹ&#x201A;our. Woodbridge Tide Mill Tide Mill Way Woodbridge IP12 1BY 01394 385295

EastLife WB's top attraction 71x107.indd 1

EACH gift in every Will makes a difference

Contact Maddy Dodsworth on 01223 204913

Registered Charity No. 274146

www.woodbridgetidemill.org.uk

www.twitter.com/TideMill_Museum www.facebook.com/TheTideMillWoodbridge

09/03/2016 14:05:46

Registered Charity No. 1069284

09/01/2017 17:52

LITTLE EAST

MUM’s

THE WORD WHAT A DIFFERENCE A YEAR MAKES. Last February I looked on agog as my nearly eightyear-old son spent his own money on gifts for his freckle faced Valentine. This year, however, I think his pennies will be staying firmly in his Darth Vader money box which seems apt as he seems to have moved to the Dark Side. My sweet, loving boy who was convinced he would marry the girl he lost his heart to on his first day at his last primary school now thinks that girls are “three headed demons in disguise”. I guess it’s an imaginative step up from girls smell at least. I would whine on about not knowing how it happened but I know, I don’t need to ponder too much. My Romeo son was an anomaly, his over

romantic, massively optimistic nature was straight from the mind of his starry eyed, romance writer mother. My sugary sentimentality was always at odds with his father’s staunch practicality. I was determined to raise a lover, not a smiter; I thought I’d done my job, I took my eye off the ball and the rose tint faded to nothing. Just the other day he said to me “if I had to choose between the love of my life or going to university which would you encourage?” He had me. I couldn’t possibly say love, not to my son who has so much academic potential. I answered as a politician representing the Sentimentalist movement might answer: “I got a degree, I had a successful career. I have never been happier then I am right now. Why is that?” He hesitated a moment before saying “Love?” Perhaps there is yet time for him to find his Valentine. I’ll get some red card in, just in case.

Read more from Nicola at www.raggydollywrites.wordpress.com or follow her on Twitter @Osborneosaurus

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FEBRUARY FUN THE FIRST HALF TERM OF THE YEAR IS ALMOST HERE. HERE’S 10 IDEAS TO KEEP THE KIDS ENTERTAINED…

CHILDREN’S HALF TERM FUN DAY WITH SCIENCE BOFFINS! The Science Boffins are heading to Beccles Public Hall on Friday 17 February to entertain children of primary school age upwards. The Boffins will take the children on a fascinating interactive journey. Understanding that everything around us in the world is made of atoms - things that we touch and see. There are three fun sessions in total from, 10am - 12 Noon, 1pm - 3pm and 4pm - 6pm. Each fun science session will last for one hour which will be followed by an-hour long disco and refreshments all included in the cost of £5 for adults and children. FEBRUARY HALF TERM OPENING AT BRESSINGHAM STEAM & GARDENS Taking place from 11 to 19 February, explore the Dads Army Halls, which features a recreation of Walmington on Sea, the fictional home to Captain Mainwaring and his men, and enjoy the operating One Railway and Gallopers. It’s a great day out for family fun. Entry prices are £4.25 Adults, £3.25 Children. www.bressingham.co.uk LITTLE LIVES AT LYNN MUSEUM, NORFOLK Step back in time and give your children a glimpse at your childhood with ‘ Little Lives: Snapshots of Childhood 1800 to the Present Day’ at Lynn Museum. This exhibition touches on the stories of childhood over the last two centuries. Childhood objects from the museum collections together with photographs and paintings offer snapshots of the changing experience of childhood. The exhibition is available until 11 June. www.museums.norfolk.gov.uk/Visit_Us/Lynn_Museum

BUG WEEK AT DINOSAUR ADVENTURE From 11 to 19 February it’s all things creepy crawly at Dinosaur Adventure, Norfolk. The popular ‘Bug Week’ is back with lots of animal handling and hands-on activities, including a prehistoric bug hunt and creepy crawly crafts. www.dinosauradventure.co.uk/events.php TEDDY EXPRESS AT BURE VALLEY RAILWAY Hop aboard the Teddy Express and join the BVR mascot bear for nine days of fun. Trains will operate from both Aylsham and Wroxham Station throughout each day. Pre-booking not essential. Adult return £13. Children free (max 2 per adult). www.bvrw.co.uk HALF TERM TRAIL AT SUTTON HOO Keep the little ones entertained with free activities from 17-21 February. Normal admission applies. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/sutton-hoo

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STORY QUEST AT THE PALACE THEATRE This three-day story adventure at the Palace Theatre from 13-15 February will bring books to life and encourage the participants to think about using them creative and imaginative ways, to inspire new work. Suitable for ages 7-11, the project will begin with an introduction to a story on the first morning, followed by a series of exercises to build an idea on which the group’s own new work will rest. £85 for all three days; £76.50 for siblings (10% sibling discount). www. southendtheatres.org.uk SPY SCHOOL AT AUDLEY END HOUSE During half term week, 13-17 February, Audley End House and Gardens is calling all super sleuths, secret agents and intrepid investigators! It’s a chance to sharpen your detective skills with hands-on training in cracking codes and solving clues. Adults £18.30, Children 5-15 years £11. www.english-heritage.org.uk

KNIGHTS AND PRINCESSES AT FRAMLINGHAM CASTLE Polish your armour and dust off your tiara, it’s time to learn the tools of the trade as you become a knight or princess for the day. This half term Framlingham Castle’s courtly experts will be teaching skills in heroic chivalry and eloquent etiquette. Adult £8.40, Children 5-15 years £5. www.english-heritage.org.uk HALF-TERM HOLIDAY CHILDREN’S FRENCH WORKSHOP This half term Alliance Francais de Cambridge are giving children the opportunity to try something new with its special children’s workshops suitable for ages 5-10 years. Interactive French workshops will include games, crafts, French pancakes and much more! £60 for three days. www.alliance-cam.co.uk

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W H E R E N AT U R A L TA L E N T S F L O U R I S H

Full, flexi or weekly BOARDING available

Here at Walden School we pride ourselves on delivering a balanced and rounded education by energising creativity and independent thought and

building mindfulness, so pupils become an asset to society. With specialist teachers, extensive facilities and the option to board; either full, weekly or flexi,

S A F F R O N WA L D E N

C B 11 3 E B

we think youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll agree we have a lot to offer. Call

01799 525351

to arrange an individual tour, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be delighted to

www.waldenschool.co.uk

welcome you to Walden School.

admissions@waldenschool.co.uk

An independent day and boarding school for boys and girls aged 3 to 18

EDUCATION

TOP TIPS

FOR GETTING THE MOST FROM A SCHOOL OPEN DAY

You’ve scoured the websites, heard the word on the street and totted up the league tables – now the next stage of finding the right school for your child is the open day visit. Although you may have one particular school in mind, be sure to visit others – at least three – so you can make comparisons. Here’s my advice for getting the most from your visit:Bring your child with you – they will almost certainly notice things you might miss.

Speak to as many pupils as possible – are they polite and articulate? Would you like your child to be like them? Try asking what they like best, and least, about their school. What happens to bullies and the otherwise badly behaved? (This will give you an idea of discipline and whether behaviour is a problem). How often are their books marked?

Talk to the teachers – do they seem passionate about their subjects? Enthusiastic? Interested in their pupils?

Soak up the atmosphere – is it calm or chaotic? Friendly or formal? Much as when choosing a home, trust your instincts. Can you imagine your child ‘living’ there?

Look at the displays. Make sure the work on show is up-to-date and from a broad ability range - a good school will value every child.

Written by Fleur Sexton

Visit the toilets – this can tell you a lot about how a school values its pupils! Children deserve clean facilities in good order. And calmly assess all the buildings and classrooms – facilities don’t necessarily need to be fancy, but the school should take pride in itself.

Apart from academics consider the pastoral care on offer. It’s a good sign if the head knows the names of the students in the corridors.

Ask about the extra-curricular offering such as sports and other clubs which will allow your child can develop their interests? This also shows that the teachers are motivated and enthusiastic.

Bear in mind that the school will be ‘showing off’ during an open day as well as being extremely busy. So although you may get a reasonable overview and form some impressions, what you see will not equate to a typical day. Best to arrange to re-visit a school you are interested in during the normal school day.

Fleur Sexton is joint managing director of education training providers Pet-Xi www.pet-xi.co.uk

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Hinchingbrooke is a remarkable state school, set in acres of beautiful grounds and adjoining a country park. Hinchingbrooke House was formerly the family home of the Cromwells and of the Earls of inspiration from its heritage and gives both staff and students a very special pride and a sense of identity. Our mission is to inspire We aim for all students to be nurtured as uniquely talented

through their learning and the development of their intellectual, creative, physical and emotional capabilities. We are thrilled for all of our students whose 2016 A-Level results have reﬂected their hard work and have enabled them to progress to their choice of university or the planned next steps in their career. These outstanding results, which have improved at all measures A*-B (46%), A* -C (76%) and A*-E (99%), are the school’s highest for ﬁve years.

Brampton Road, Huntingdon Cambridgeshire PE29 3BN T: 01480 375700 | F: 01480 420536 E: communications@hinchbk.cambs.sch.uk www.hinchingbrookeschool.net

Inspired

Learning Junior School Open Week

Whole School Open Days

(Nursery - year 6)

(Nursery - Sixth Form)

Monday 30 January Friday 3 February Give us a call

Thursday 9 March 4pm - 6pm Friday 10 March 9.30am - 12 noon

01604 765765

OUTSTANDING SCHOOL 2015/16

SIS

• Montessori teaching methods • Emphasis on academic achievement • Strong traditional values • Music, dance and drama enrich the curriculum

An independent co-educational school for children aged 2½ - 11years

Our next Open Evening is on Thursday 9th March 6.00 – 8.30pm please contact our Admissions Registrar, Mrs Harding on 01206 576686. 2 - 4 Lexden Road, Colchester, CO3 3NE

www.northamptonhigh.gdst.net

www.oxfordhouseschool.net

Diary Dates SCHOOL OPEN DAYS It’s that time of year again, when the region’s best schools open their doors to potential new pupils. Here are some key open days taking place this spring...

ESSEX

Walden School Walden School, Mount Pleasant Road, Saffron Walden, Essex CB11 3EB TEL: 01799 525351 OPEN DAY: 9 March, 9.30am Formerly known as Friends School, the school provides education for both boys and girls aged 3 – 18. An old Quaker foundation, it has a history

of more than three hundred years for educating students, and is a vibrant day and boarding school. www.waldenschool.co.uk St Mary’s School for Girls 91 Lexden Road, Colchester CO3 3RB TEL: 01206 572544 OPEN DAYS: Kindergarten and lower school: 18 March, 9.30am – 11.30am Senior school: 28 February, 10.30am – 12pm and 4 March, 10am – 1pm A high achieving independent school for girls aged 3-16 with a focus on building confidence and academic achievement. www.stmaryscolchester.org.uk

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Nurturing talent, enabling success www.southlee.co.uk

OPEN MORNING Saturday 4th March 2017 10am-12noon

South Lee School Educating children from nursery to 13 years Nowton Road, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk, IP33 2BT. Tel: 01284 754654 Email: office@southlee.co.uk

For further information or to book a visit contact Mrs L. Ronge, Registrar

The

Judith Fox

Ballet School

Bold Imaginative Reflective Three words to define your daughterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s future. Add three more:

The Judith Fox Ballet School likes to introduce a love of ballet to as many children as possible. The emphasis being on enjoyment, but with a serious side for those who would like to go on to vocational school and a possible career in the dance world. Students have been accepted in top schools and gone on to a professional career. Classes take place throughout the week, with the youngest on Saturday mornings when full of beans.

Open Morning Wednesday 8th March, 10am

Adult classes (good excercise) in ballet, tap, street. The Foxes, Tuttles Lane East, Wymondham, Norfolk, NR18 0EW

Tel: 01953 607235 Judith Fox 1/4.indd 1

Telephone: 01234 361918 www.bedfordgirlsschool.co.uk Bedford Girlsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; School is part of The Harpur Trust

15/2/12 10:15:11

Oxford House School 2–4 Lexden Road, Colchester, CO3 3NE TEL: 01206 576686 OPEN DAY: 9 March 2017, 6pm – 8.30pm A traditional Nursery and Preparatory School for girls and boys aged 2 1/2 to 11 years. This intimate and exclusive school offers every child a complete education that puts a high emphasis on traditional values and the child centred learning of the Montessori Method. www.oxfordhouseschool.net

HERTS & BEDS

St Francis College Broadway, Letchworth Garden City SG6 3PJ TEL: 01462 670511 OPEN DAYS: 25 March 2017, 10am - 12.30pm. The Headmistress will be speaking at 11am Friday 28 April 2017, 9am - 12.30pm. Visit the school on a normal ‘working’ morning The college has been educating girls for over 75 years, and offers boarding and day education for ages 13-18. www.st-francis.herts.sch.uk Bedford Girls School Cardington Road, Bedford MK42 0BX TEL: 01234 361918 OPEN DAY: 8 March, 10am A vibrant independent day school for girls aged 7-18 offering an education rich in both academic and co-curricular choices. www.bedfordgirlsschool.co.uk Tring Park School Tring, HP23 5LX TEL: 01442 824255 OPEN DAY: 17 March An outstanding performing arts school for talented young individuals, that also focuses on an academic education. www.tringpark.com Hinchingbrooke School Brampton Road, Huntingdon PE29 3BN TEL: 01480 375700 OPEN DAY: Contact for further details A remarkable state school, which encourages talented individuals, finding fulfilment through their learning and the development of their intellectual, creative, physical and emotional capabilities. www.hinchingbrookeschool.net Northampton High School Newport Pagnell Road, Hardingstone, Northampton NN4 6UU TEL: 01604 765765

OPEN DAYS: Junior School Open Week: 30 January – 3 February Junior School Taster Week: 6 – 10 February Whole School Open Day: (3 - 18 years), 9 March in the afternoon, and 10 March, 9.30am – 12pm An independent day school for girls aged from 3 - 18 years. The school has an excellent academic record, and provides outstanding facilities for art, drama, music, science and technology, as well as a wide range of indoor and outdoor sports. www.northamptonhigh.co.uk

CAMBRIDGESHIRE

The Leys School Fen Causeway, Cambridge CB2 7AD TEL: 01223 508900 OPEN DAY: 25 February, 8.45am The only co-educational boarding and day school in Cambridge. A small school, each individual’s strengths and abilities are encouraged and pastoral care is top priority. www.theleys.net Cambridge Regional College Kings Hedges Road, Milton, Cambridge CB4 2QT TEL: 01223 418200 OPEN DAY: 4 March, 9.30am – 12.30pm A further education college with excellent full-time and part-time courses, apprenticeships and Higher Education. www.camre.ac.uk

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We can’t predict the future, but we can get your daughter future-ready.

We welcome you to our next Open Day on Saturday 25th March from 10am – 12.30pm

Excellent independent boarding and day

Tel: 01462 670 511

school located in Letchworth Garden City

admissions@st-francis.herts.sch.uk

for girls aged 3 - 18 years.

www.st-francis.herts.sch.uk

St Mary's ad Eastlife Jan 2017 2016 107mm h x 148mm w_Layout 1 12/12/2016 11:53 Page 1

Happy girls are high achievers. Come along to our Spring Open Days: Lower School and Kindergarten (for girls and boys aged 3-4) Saturday 18 March, 9.30-11.30; Senior School (girls aged 11-16) Tuesday 28 Feb 2017, 10.30-12 & Saturday 4 March 2017, 10-1

St Mary’s Colchester

For more information, please contact our Registrar, 01206 216420 registrar@stmaryscolchester.org.uk www.stmaryscolchester.org.uk

Creating opportunities… realising potential… living life to the full! We are an independent co-educational day school and nursery for 2–11 year olds Call us today on 01279 657706 or visit www.howegreenhouseschool.co.uk

Howe Green House School, Great Hallingbury, Bishop’s Stortford, Hertfordshire CM22 7UF

An outstanding Independent Prep School for boys and girls aged 3-13 years

Happiness, Confidence, Success

Contact: 01442 256143

www.westbrookhay.co.uk London Road, Hemel Hempstead HP1 2RF

OPEN MORNING Saturday, 4th March 2017 9.30am – 12.30pm

Norwich High School for Girls aged 3 to 18

Open Week

Monday 6th March to Friday 10th March 2017 Call our Registrar on 01603 453 265 or email admissions@nor.gdst.net to book your place or to find out more about our pioneering girlsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; education.

Now offering places for Year 10 entry, starting from September 2017

GCSEs 2016 97% A* to C 87% A* to B 64% A* to A

Find out more at www.norwichhigh.gdst.net

Picnic themed cafe serving local homemade food to eat in or takeaway. VISIT OUR SHOP

For an eclectic shopping experience

Breakfast. Lunches. Light Snacks

Opening times: Mon - Sat 9am - 5pm | Sun 10am - 4pm

Brick Yard Barn, Norwich Road, Hedenham, Bungay NR35 2DE

01508 483947

FOOD & DRINK

FOOD & DRINKNews FARMYARD BECOMES NORWICH’S FIRST ‘BISTRONOMY’ STYLE EATERY At the end of last month, Farmyard become the newest addition to the Norwich food scene, and introduced a new restaurant concept to the city – ‘bistronomy’. Combining a relaxed ‘bistro’ experience with top quality food and flavours seen in ‘gastronomic’ fine dining restaurants, the term originated in Paris in the 90s, but for the first time it has made its way across the Channel and landed at 23 St Benedict’s Street.

A sample dish at the Farmyard

Farmyard is the brain child of Reepham boy Andrew Jones, who went to school in Norwich and trained in London under Michelin Starred Chefs. Andrew’s first head Chef role was at wine bar and restaurant Antidote in Carnaby street, Soho, though he has always dreamt of returning to Norfolk to open his own restaurant. He said: “Why would I want to be anywhere else in the world when I could be in Norfolk surrounded by my real food heroes – the farmers and producers? They’re so close by that I can speak to them directly and hand pick what’s coming into the kitchen that week.” Farmyard offers a “produce-driven” menu, which uses ingredients sourced from across county such as include organic vegetables from Eves Hill Farm and, when in season, pheasant and other game from Kempstone Manor Farm near Swaffham, supplied by Andrew’s brother in law and key Farmyard investor Nigel Bertram. Though the restaurant will be serving up some of the best meat and fish dishes around, dietary requirements and vegetarians are also catered for. The ‘mix and match’ mains and extras menu allows guests to create their own main course. The meat or fish element comes without an accompaniment while the extras are more developed stand-alone dishes that cover the full range of dietary requirements. www.farmyardrestaurant.com

Que Rico Tapas

VALENTINE’S DAY POP-UP IN CAMBRIDGE To celebrate the day of love Cambridgeshire’s Spanish caterers Que Rico Tapas will be moving its kitchen to Novi in Cambridge for a special pop-up event on 11 February. The event, which begins at 7pm for a sit down at 7.30pm, will offer welcome canapes and four courses including scallop with prawns in tomato sauce and chicken breast stuffed with pistachios, bacon and dates. Tickets cost £35.11 per person. To reserve your place visit www.quericotapas.com/valentines-day-novi

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passionate about food for over 15 years

Essex’s premier fine food hall and a whole lot more

Quiz Night Suppers • Butchery Classes • Gin Tasting Evenings Private Functions • Conference Facilities

Butchers - Fishmongers - Delicatessen - Chefs Counter - Greengrocery Pantry - Restaurant - Wine - Chocolaterie - Gifts & Home 86 London Road, Marks Tey, Colchester, Essex, CO6 1ED www.thefoodcompany.co.uk

THE

CAMBRIDGEFOODIE Gerla de Boer, founder of the Cambridge Food Tour (www.cambridgefoodtour.com), shares her wisdom of the city’s cuisine…

LET’S GO FOR A HYGGE VALENTINES When I first heard about Hygge, I wondered what it was. Soon I learned, that it was an elevated state of cosiness and conciousness. It claimed to be a Danish thing, much is less true as Hygge was actually first used by the Norwegians in the 1900s, wanting to give their feeling of being comfortable a name. It’s almost like a big hug. Some people claim, that the word ‘hug’ derives from Hygge. It is such an important feeling, that Hygge is now even taught as a subject at college in the UK. Hygge has always been in my life. My mother lit candles or tea lights every day, Sunday breakfasts were a feast and birthdays were always celebrated with cousins, aunts and friends. In the Netherlands we describe Hygge as ‘oerhollandse gezelligheid’, which unfortunately cannot be translated into English. It describes the same as Hygge. Many people think, that Hygge is seasonal, a winter thing but not at all! Hygge is 365 days in my life. I buy candles and tea lights in bulk and Sunday breakfasts are a feast! Hygge is all about embracing life and your loved ones. It is a way of life and not just for Valentine’s day and Christmas. Keen to add’ Hygge to your life? Here are my tips: GET COSY - Dim the light, buy fresh flowers, add loads of candles and light the fire if you have one. ENJOY DELICIOUS FOOD - It is all about cosiness and happiness. Anything what feels good should do. ENTERTAINMENT - I don’t believe TV is Hygge! It is not cosy to curl up, watch a screen and not talk. Vinyl, a nice drink, food and a good conversation is Hygge for me. It is all about connecting.

Images: Que Rico Tapas

INTERIOR DESIGN - Blankets, rugs and sheep skins? Whatever you like, Hygge is a feeling and a contemporary house can be filled with love, warmth and cosiness just as much. WHERE TO GET THAT HYGGE FEELING IN CAMBRIDGE? • Hygge Cambridge - to meet like minded people • Que Rico Tapas, The Cambridge Dining Company and the Garden Kitchen for delicious food at home • The Cambridge Cheese Company and Culinaris for feasting at home • The Country Kitchen, the Gogs and Burnwash Manor to splash out • Byard Art and Cambridge Contemporary Art or lovely tea light holders to bring sparkle to your evening

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Albatros Bar, Restaurant, B&B

Traditional DUTCH CUISINE incl. our famous Dutch PANCAKES Speciality Lodging/B&B Live Music Every Weekend Private & Corporate Parties Dine by Candle Light in our cosy seating and bar area below deck...

On board historic sailing ship ALBATROS, The Quay, Wells-next-to-sea.

Book Your

Valentines Day & Pancake Day Meal Today!

For Enquiries

07979 087228

www.albatroswells.co.uk

Immerse yourself in 1000 years of history at Suffolk’s Cathedral and take a guided trip up our magnificent Millennium Tower* Guided tours of the cathedral also available with our friendly and knowledgeable guides. Browse a huge range of gifts in our shop and refresh yourself in our welcoming Pilgrims’ Kitchen café which serves hot and cold food and drinks and has free Wi-Fi. Help us build history by laying a brick on our LEGO ® model. We’re building our cathedral out of 200,000 LEGO bricks and need your help! Donate £1 and lay a brick on the model. You are assured of a warm welcome at our services and events. For full details of services, events and news go to

www.stedscathedral.co.uk

The Cathedral Office, Abbey House, Angel Hill, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk, IP33 1LS

*tower tours only available on certain dates. Please check website for details.

FLIPPIN’ FUN

WHERE TO ENJOY A PANCAKE OR TWO ON SHROVE TUESDAY Written by Amanda French

Fancy a stack of American pancakes or French style crepes, but don’t feel like making them at home? Then fear not, as we’ve done the hard work and have pulled together our favourites in the area. 1. THE ALBATROS IN WELLS, NORFOLK The Albatros is a former Dutch cargo ship built in 1899 as a North Sea clipper and is now permanently moored alongside the Quay. One of their specialities is Dutch pancakes in an array of savoury and sweet options. Enjoy King size pancakes or opt for a little taster with mini sweet pancakes. Toppings include stem ginger, ginger preserve, cinnamon and syrup or savoury options which include bacon, brie and cranberry sauce, mushroom, garlic and stilton or smoked salmon, cream cheese and dill. www.albatroswells.co.uk 2. THE PANCAKE AND WAFFLE SHACK, BARTON MILLS, SUFFOLK Looking for super sweet dessert style American pancakes with a variety of fun toppings, then head to The Pancake and Waffle Shack near Bury St Edmunds or their sister restaurant in Mildenhall, Norfolk. 3. POTTY PANCAKES IN POTTERS BAR, HERTFORDSHIRE They really are potty about pancakes at this spot in town. Enjoy crepes or American Pancakes or even a protein crepe with a variety of toppings including a huge choice of chocolate bars such as Toffee Crisp, Twix, Malteasers, Skittles, Jelly Beans or even crushed digestives. Alternatively, opt for one of the

more savoury options such as a full English or baked beans. www.pottypancakes.com 4. CAMBRIDGE CREPES, SIDNEY STREET, CAMBRIDGE CITY CENTRE, CAMBRIDGESHIRE: Head over to this popular stall to enjoy some of the best crepes in the area. The friendly team at Cambridge Crepes serves up everything from Nutella, banana & biscuits to Nutella and white chocolate or bacon, cheese and onion or brie & cranberry. These guys also cater at events – just imagine how popular you’d be if they turned up at your next family gathering. www.cambridgecrepes.co.uk 5. CREPEAHOLIC, WITHAM, ESSEX This hidden gem offers savoury crepes called Galettes, made with buckwheat flour which adds a nutty flavour. Chorizo & Mozzarella, Prosciutto, Brie & Mozzarella or Tuna and Cheese Salad are just a few of the options. Alternatively, try one of their dessert crepes such as The Ultimate Banoffee, Chocolate & Strawberry Parcel or Oreo & Nutella Delight. www.facebook.com/crepeaholicwitham 6. POPPINS, 84 HIGH STREET, BEDFORD, BEDFORDSHIRE This might be a chain restaurant, but you can guarantee a good choice of pancakes at Poppins. The Mary Poppins is two pancakes topped with bananas, with whipped cream and ice cream, toffee sauce & chocolate strands or tuck into the incredibly indulgent Choclog pancakes with chocolate sauce, whipped cream, ice cream and chocolate log. Seriously sweet pancakes to keep you going! www.poppinsrestaurants.co.uk

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WINES TO FALL IN LOVE WITH Written by Matt Dicks, WSET qualified Beers, Wines and Spirits Specialist for Waitrose

Roses are red, violets are blue, have I got some wooing wine choices for you... Ok, it’s not Shakespeare’s finest, but with Valentine’s Day on the horizon, there’s no better time to hit the bullseye with your wine choices. The 14 February can be rather predictable: Champagne, chocolates, flowers and a battle to get a table in your favourite restaurant. Whether you rule the roost in the kitchen or pull out all the stops on a night out, there’s a tipple to suit everyone. However, it’s not just about purchasing that top notch bottle, crucially it’s also what food you might pair with it in order to impress. It could make all the difference. I’m sure we’ve all had our fair share of memories, both good and bad, but the day is what you make of it. So here’s a handpicked selection of wines to help charge those love batteries:

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WAITROSE BLANC DE NOIRS BRUT NV

al method’, commonly associated with Champagne.

Celebrate true romance with this Champagne su-

Add an extended period of ageing to bring out the

pernova. The best Blanc de Noirs, such as this one,

yeasty, toasty notes on the bouquet, and the result is

are made only from Pinot Noir rather than from a

the perfect vine romance.

mixture of black grapes. This award-winning fizz is produced by Alexandre Bonnet, a small house that

BIJOU ROSE CABRIERES CUVEE SOPHIE VALROSE

grows its own grapes near Les Riceys in the most

Rose shouldn’t just be for summer, as it’s fruit-filled

southerly part of Champagne. Overflowing with ripe

delights can be savoured any time of the year. Burst-

fruit flavours, and complimented by biscuit and toast

ing with raspberries and cherries, this rather quirky

characters, it’s the perfect fizz for Valentines Day.

choice is ready to unleash with a bowl of fresh red fruits, particularly of the strawberry kind.

GREYFRIARS ROSE RESERVE BRUT Buzzing with verve, this Surrey sparkler is produced

WAITROSE RIPASSO DI VALPOLICELLA CLASSICO

on slopes of the magnificent North Downs. This red

SUPERIORE, FRATELLI RECCHIA

fruit-scented fizz with a dusting of spice, is a real

Crack open a bottle of this love potion if you want

triumph of a wine. Made from 100% Pinot Noir and

a wine to match your amazing culinary skills. Often

complimented with a delightful touch of vanilla,

overlooked for Amarone, Ripasso offers a very drink-

makes this an enchanting, elegant and delicious

able, balanced alternative. The term Ripasso means,

bubbly. It’s ready and waiting to satisfy your heart’s

to re-pass, which in layman’s terms means the wine

desire.

has undergone a secondary fermentation with dried grapes. This helps to concentrate the flavours and

LINDAUER SPECIAL RESERVE BRUT CUVÉE NV

create a richer wine, resulting in irresistible vibrance

Spread some Lindauer love with this fresh-fruit

and depth.

scented pick of the pops. A popular choice amongst many, it’s made using the much renowned ‘tradition-

For more details visit www.waitrosecellar.com

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INDEPENDENT DIABETES TRUST

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HEALTH

7BEAUTY

HACKS

Using dryer sheets to tame static hair, creating thicker lashes with baby powder and drying your hair with a cotton t-shirt are just some of the top hair and beauty hacks for 2017, according to online hair and beauty retailer Hairtrade.com. They give us an insight into their top hacks everyone should be using in 2017… 1. USE LIPSTICK AS BLUSHER Blended out, this will achieve the creamy finish seen on many runways in the run up to 2017. 2. MAKE YOUR TOOTHBRUSH INTO A BROW BRUSH Big, bold and bushy eyebrows are going nowhere this year. To achieve the fully brushed out style apply the smallest amount of gel to your eyebrows and comb through with a toothbrush. 3. CHEAT THE TOP RUNWAY HAIR LOOK Deep side-partings were all over the runways in Paris this season. To avoid this look ending up more like Cousin It, all you need is a single bobby pin to fix the hair in place behind one ear. You can even create a feature of this and use a decorated barrette.

4. DRY YOUR HAIR WITH COTTON The looping fabric on towels can create a lot of friction when used to dry your hair, but you don’t have to invest in an expensive microfiber towel. Try using a cotton t-shirt for a smoother and more frizz free finish. 5. DON’T BE WITHOUT PETROLEUM JELLY It has multiple uses so have one to hand for all sorts of jobs from softening cuticles to removing make up. 6. CREATE YOUR OWN LIP SCRUB With matte lips still firmly on trend, lips need to be in tiptop shape to get the most out of these formulas. Try combining some sugar with a small amount of olive oil and gently buff into the lips with a toothbrush. 7. APPLY DRY SHAMPOO BEFORE BED Tossing and turning overnight will work the product into the hair and add volume, without the white patches.

01986 892728

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BEFORE

AFTER

Straighten your smile today!

It’s never too late for a straighter smile Olympic snowboarder Jenny Jones underwent Invisalign® treatment at Museum Square Dental Centre, and 13 months later is feeling more confident than ever. “I just can’t stop smiling; honestly I’m so happy, the result is awesome!” Call 01945 583199 today, to find out more about how we can straighten your smile, just like Jenny’s

Museum Square, The Crescent, Wisbech, PE13 1ES | museumsquaredental.co.uk

P-17-006_MuseumSquare_JennyJones_testimonial_Ad_168x240mm.indd 1

23/01/2017 15:44

The rise of adult ORTHODONTICS Overwhelmingly, the ma jor reason people seek aesthetic dental treatments is to improve physical attractiveness and self-esteem (86%). However, according to a survey of dental professionals, aesthetic procedures are also requested for restorative or heath reasons (46%); to look and feel younger (45%); or in advance of an anticipated upcoming event, such as a wedding (48%). One of the fastest rising sectors to improve the cosmetic and functional improvement of the mouth is adult orthodontics which has been attributed to the introduction of clear aligner therapy. Align Technology pioneered the Invisalign (www.invisalign.co.uk) system of virtually invisible removable plastic ‘aligners’ which are worn over the teeth for 22 hours a day. This has done for teeth what contact lenses did for eyes – created a discrete way to undergo treatment without anyone seeing. A decade ago it was unusual to see adults having their teeth straightened. However, this has changed dramatically. In 1995 Invisalign treated their first case and it took from then until 2015 for the company to treat three million people. Since then a further one million Invisalign people have started treatment – this exponential increase to four million is attributed to the discrete nature of the treatment which makes it socially acceptable for men and women no matter their age to straighten their teeth. As a result, many celebrities are discretely having their teeth straightened including cycling’s golden couple, the multi medallists Laura Trott from Essex and Jason Kenny, who recently completed their Invisalign treatment while training for the games in Rio. Well, if it’s good enough for the British Olympic team…

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01480 461187 WWW.CREAM-ROSE.CO.UK 7 HIGH STREET, FENSTANTON, CAMBS PE28 9LQ OPEN Tuesday 11:00am to 4:00pm, Wednesday to Friday 10:00am to 5:00pm, Saturday 9:00am to 4:00pm. Sunday by Appointment.

2017 PROM DRESS

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FASHION

Your clothes can make youHAPPY! Written by Ruth Essex

I have two beautiful daughters, Scarlet, seven, and Eliza, five, who would never consider any day not special enough to wear glitter and sparkle. “Mummy can I wear sparkly grey tights?” Erm. Unfortunately, not for school. Wearing glamorous plastic heels with their pyjamas? A witches’ dress and a white furry Cossack hat to go to the supermarket? Why not? So many people smile and it brings a little sunshine to a cloudy day. Choosing their own outfit fills them with joy and helps them express who they are. The strange thing is, that many of us started life as Scarlets and Elizas and yet often lose that ability to find joy in our clothes, the way children do. Like our children, not much in our home gets saved for best. Crystal glasses for wine with dinner on a Tuesday evening? Why not? I would rather one was broken than it collected dust in the dresser. And I feel the same way about wearing my clothes. Clothes go off, they stop fitting us and we fall out of love with them. I have worn nine strands of pearls on the school run before but so what? I set my own standards and if that means I am a bit, or even a lot, more dressed up then others who cares? People soon get used to it and as pearls are my signature piece, I loved it. There is nothing wrong with bringing a little belle époque to one’s day. And did it make me feel happy? Yes it did.

February is the month of love, and partner or not, self care, self love, whatever you want to call it, this month is a good reminder that it is not helpful to put all the responsibility for our happiness on to someone else and to take responsibility for our own emotions. So, if you have an outfit that makes you feel happy, go ahead and play dress up today. Finding happiness is important.

Ruth Essex is an image consultant at Mycolourcoach.co.uk | Tel: 07900 910 666 Images: La Redoute - R Essentiel trench coat £59 Navy blazer - Whowhatwhere.co.uk

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GURU

WEDDINGS

THE WEDDING

WEDDING TRENDS OF 2017

Last year I shared my top trend predictions for 2016 including the still bang-on-trend spring greens, hanging and suspended décor and monograms. The good news… 2017 promises to be just as inspirational!

Written by Katrina Otter

So here it is, my guide to the wedding trends to look out for and be inspired by in 2017… PANTONE’S COLOUR OF THE YEAR 2017 Back in December 2016 the colour pros at Pantone unveiled Greenery (PANTONE 15-0343 – a refreshingly bold yellow-green that speaks to our need to explore, experiment and reinvent) as THE colour of 2017! So, what does this mean for your wedding…well, pretty much everything especially considering how easily and effectively this colour can be incorporated into any style or season of wedding! The fresh-from-the-garden, deconstructed, wild and foraged foliage look has been trending for several years now but 2017 will be the year that everyone goes crazy for it – from bouquets and button holes to statement table runners and stationery. HYGGE Hygge – “a concept, originating in Denmark, of creating cosy and convivial atmospheres that promote wellbeing” (Source: Collins English Dictionary). Translated for weddings…think icy cool greys and neutral colour palettes, sage greens, lashings of foliage and herbs, an abundance of candlelight, chunky knit throws, faux fur blankets, mulled cocktails, wooden tables and benches…you get the drift! ASYMMETRICAL FLOWERS AND FOLIAGE Asymmetrical is very on trend right now, especially when it comes to the curves and lines of floral arrangements. In 2017 flowers and foliage will continue to be distinctly

off-centre and defined less by shape and more by cascading, over-sized foliage, vines, branches and blooms. From wild bouquets of trailing ferns to asymmetrical draped garlanding with sprays of accent flowers and foliage – this fearless trend is BIG news! COLOURS INSPIRED BY NATURE Bright, vivid, bold, patterned and impactful was the name of the game in 2016 but in 2017 colour schemes will be pared back and instead influenced by the hues that surround us in nature – from cool pale greens to earthy neutrals and soft flesh-tone hues. This look is soft, fresh, feminine, refined and understated. PERSPEX There’s a fair bit of industry buzz currently surrounding acrylic which means that it’s only right that acrylic / perspex features amongst my trend watch for 2017. From Louis Ghost Chairs to bespoke acyclic signs, floating floral arrangements to edible treats displayed on perspex plinths – there are plenty of ways to incorporate this trend into your wedding. COMMISSIONED ILLUSTRATIONS In 2016 it was all about the monogram but in 2017 we’re making way for commissioned illustrations – a stylish, timeless and unique way to personalise your day. Thankfully lots of stationery designers are now incorporating this into their service offerings and the possibilities are endless, from an illustration of the two of you to a custom crest or pretty picture of your venue.

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The perfect venue for an elegant wedding in the Suffolk countryside.

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The perfect venue for an elegant wedding in the Suffolk countryside.

Our team of expert wedding planners will take care of every aspect of your special day so that it runs flawlessly. All you need to do is relax and enjoy. For a wedding pack please email events@theoaksmere.com The Oaksmere, Rectory Road, Brome, Eye, Suffolk IP23 8AJ 01379 873940 | www.theoaksmere.com

FOOD AND DRINK STATIONS A wedding trend report wouldn’t be complete without talking about food or bubbles, right?! Thankfully in 2017 this comes in an interactive form including (but not limited to)… Bubbly bars and vans, doughnut walls, patisserie parlours, chocolate delis, portable wood fired pizzas and mobile coffee machines. The best news is that not only will you and your guests reap the benefits of whatever food or drink takes your fancy, incorporating a station into your overall design is also guaranteed to add a creative show stopping centrepiece and a talking point for your guests. HAND-DYED SILK AND COTTON RUNNERS One of the trends I’m noticing in increasing frequency in magazines and blogs is the use of hand-dyed silk and natural cotton runners to dress long wedding tables (which in themselves are a BIG trend for the year ahead!).

Image credit (clockwise): Guy Collier Photography, Rebecca Goddard Photography, Lucy Davenport Photography

These runners can be left for a more undone look, or pressed for a sleek, soft and luxe feel and then styled with the simple addition of trailing foliage, minimal floral arrangements and candlelight.

Katrina Otter is a Cambridgeshire based wedding planner and event organiser. www.katrinaotterweddings.co.uk

The good news is that runners are more accessible and easy to purchase from the likes of Kate Cullen and Lancaster & Cornish, to name but a few.

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Your perfect day... Our perfect wedding venue... at Hinchingbrooke House

WEDDING FAIR

Sunday 19th March, 11am - 3.30pm A fantastic opportunity for couples to plan their Wedding Day, to make contact with our exhibitors and be inspired by their specialist services. Please visit: www.hhpac.co.uk or call: 01480 420538 Watch our wedding video at: goo.gl/un6bp2 2017 01 East Life Wed Open Day HP.qxp_107mm h x 148mm w 11/01/2017 14:27 Page 1

Wedding Open Day at Ufford Park Woodbridge

Sunday 19th March 11:00am - 3:00pm This is a non-exhibitor event.

FREE ENTRY

ALL WELCOME

t 0844 477 1835 (local rate) w www.uffordpark.co.uk Yarmouth Road | Woodbridge | Suffolk | IP12 1QW

IMPORTANT

WEDDING VENUE TIPS

It can take time to find your perfect wedding venue so ensure you start planning for it as soon as possible. Work out your budget and see as many locations as you can to gain a greater idea of what is available so that you do achieve your dream wedding. Thomas Harper, Hirings Manager at Hylands House (www.hylandsestateweddings.co.uk), Essex, gives the top tips on what to consider when hiring a wedding venue. 1. LOCATION Often, couples pick somewhere that is either near to where they currently live, or a place where either the bride or groom grew up. Some couples plan a church wedding and then hire a separate reception venue. Others have the wedding ceremony, reception and evening party in one place. An important factor is that the location should be somewhere that is convenient for guests to visit. Ensure there are quick transport links and ample parking spaces. Look at how easy it might be for people to travel there. 2. VENUE The amount of people attending your wedding has a major impact on your venue choice. You can hire village halls, country houses, hotels and even barns. For a lovely mix, look at venues that offer both small and large rooms. The smaller areas can be used for drinks and the ceremony and the larger banqueting rooms for entertainment spaces. Look at houses that have added Pavilions or Marquees that you can dress to your own theme and are great for dancing. 3. CAPACITY To choose the right venue for your needs, these are a few useful questions: How many guests can be seated for the wedding breakfast? How many can attend an evening buffet? How many rooms are available? Are there facilities available for any quests with disabilities?

Is there a place to keep gifts safe? Are there proper cloakrooms for coats and umbrellas? Where will you greet your guests, where will people sit, where will they dance? Can you decorate the room? Are you allowed to have LED candles or lanterns? 4. CATERING It’s good to have a choice of catering and to deal with creative chefs that allow you to have some control. Check whether you can provide your own catering – or do you need to use the venue’s own. Can you bring your own drinks? Do you need to hire tableware? If you have a theme, ensure that the caterers can supply food that matches it.

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Outside Caterers

We We can can cater cater for for almost almost any any occasion, occasion, from birthday parties, hen parties, from birthday parties, hen parties, corporate corporate events, events, funerals, funerals, baby baby showers showers and and weddings. weddings. We We can can supply supply aa full full waitress waitress service service and vintage crockery and vintage crockery if if desired. desired.

Hadleigh, Hadleigh, Suffolk Suffolk

Tel: 01473 806398 Mobile: 07900 900329 Tel: 806398 Mobile: 07900 900329 We01473 can cater for almost any occasion, info@angel-delights.com www.angel-delights.com info@angel-delights.com www.angel-delights.com

from birthday parties, hen parties, corporate events, funerals, baby showers and weddings. We can supply a full waitress service and vintage crockery if desired.

2017

Wedding Fayre

Hadleigh, Suffolk Tel: 01473 806398 Mobile: 07900 900329 info@angel-delights.com www.angel-delights.com

Thursday 16th February 2017 6pm - 9.30pm

Kimbolton Castle A wedding at Kimbolton Castle is a magical affair in a stately home with beautiful grounds.

2 017 ALL IN C WEDDING PA LUSIVE CKAGES from

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Couples have exclusive use of the State Rooms. Our experienced team will guide you through your tailor made preparations at the Castle ensuring that your wedding day runs according to plan. • Up to 120 guests for both the ceremony and wedding breakfast • Up to 250 guests for the evening • Licensed for civil ceremonies The Castle has its own caterers who provide a professional service offering a wide selection of menus and an extensive wine list.

visit the website www.highlodge.co.uk email info@highlodge.co.uk tel 01986 784347 find us just off the A12 near Darsham Suffolk IP17 3QT

Bookings for 2017 & 2018 now being taken

bursarysec@kimbolton.cambs.sch.uk www.kimbolton.cambs.sch.uk

W EDDI NG

FAY R E

Start your love story on Sunday 2 April 2017. King’s Lynn Town Hall’s Wedding Fayre is a great place to look for inspiration for your wedding! Come along for FREE between 10.30am - 3pm, to browse a range of suppliers and wedding specialists, from photographers to flowers, and everything in between, that will help make your special day sparkle! All brides will receive a free goody bag and complimentary drink from our bar. To pre-register your free bridal place, visit www.kingslynntownhall.com/weddingfayre King’s Lynn Town Hall, Saturday Market Place, King’s Lynn PE30 5DQ Tel: 01553 777775 townhall@west-norfolk.gov.uk www.kingslynntownhall.co.uk

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HOW TO CHOOSE THE PERFECT

WEDDING DRESS

Written by Kayleigh Thomas www.bluejeanswhiteteeblog.com

Shopping for a wedding dress can be a long and emotional process, so to help you along the way I thought I’d share some of the tips I learned when I found my own dress this time last year – I hope it helps! 1. KNOW WHERE TO SHOP FOR YOUR BUDGET I’m going to assume you’ve already got a budget in mind *waits patiently*. Got it? Good. I started my wedding planning experience positive that I would head straight to a boutique. And then I realised I didn’t have bottomless pockets. If you’re Ms Moneybags (or will be marrying Mr Moneybags…) and have your heart set on a designer dress, then rock on! But if you’re like me and you’re wondering how on earth you’re going to afford a decent dress for less than a month or three’s wages, it’s time to look elsewhere. Perhaps you know a great local dressmaker who can guide you through choosing the right materials for your budget, for a stunning one-of-a-kind creation. Alternatively, there are some amazing websites for pre-loved and vintage wedding dresses sellmyweddingdress.co.uk, bride2bride.co.uk, preloved. co.uk and stillwhite.co.uk are just some examples where you can pick up a designer dress in your size (or close enough to it) for a fraction of the price. I actually looked into renting a wedding dress before heading to an outlet that sells last-season and ex-display wedding dresses off the peg, and I was fortunate

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enough that the second dress I tried on fit like a glove and the whole thing, including the underskirt, cost me less than £500. Getting creative about where you buy your dress from really does open up your options and can save you a small fortune, without compromising on style. 2. GO PREPARED A nude strapless bra and a nude thong are pretty much all you need to take along with you, and shoes in a similar height to what you’d like to wear on the day can help. It’s not essential to have your hair accessories and jewellery sorted beforehand, and with so many dresses going up and over your hair I wouldn’t spend too much time dolling yourself up. Also, try to wear as little makeup as possible – sure, you might not feel amazing twirling around in your dress, but take it from a woman who spent an hour dabbing

her wedding dress with washing up liquid and a damp towel – your makeup can wait until the day. 3. ENJOY THE FLATTERY – BUT DON’T FEEL PRESSURED TO BUY All too often bride-to-be’s go dress shopping with “Yes Men” who’ll lie through their teeth to avoid any Bridezilla meltdowns. Plus, it’s a salesperson’s job to sell you that wedding dress at the top end of your budget. And a veil. And a tiara. Don’t even get me started on garters. Of course, stylists should be full of helpful insight as to the material and style that will best suit your body, venue and season. And our friends can be great for reminding us that we deserve to wear a knockout dress on our Big Day and “to hell with being comfortable”. Despite not being able to sit down properly, I’m glad I listened to my maid of honour - but, when it comes down to it, nobody knows your body better than you do or what makes you feel good. After all, there’s only so much altering that can make you fall in love with a dress you’re not 100% sure about. 4. THINK ABOUT WHAT YOU WANT TO DO WITH YOUR WEDDING DRESS AFTER THE BIG DAY I know you’re probably freaking out about how you’re even going to find your dream dress, but what you plan to do with it after your wedding could affect the style or material that you go for, so it’s worth keeping in mind in these early stages. Is your dress destined for the loft, perhaps lying in wait to be reworked for your daughter or granddaughter? You’ll need to make sure the material and your storage solution is built to stand the test of time (and moths). You might be planning on selling your dress to recoup some of your cash – second-hand websites like the ones above all make this super easy. You might like to donate your dress to dressmakers who make burial gowns for babies. Websites like cherishedgowns.org.uk, heavenlygowns.co.uk and angelgowns.chauglie.com can help you here, and planning to do this in advance may influence the tulle-to-material ratio that you select. Personally, I selected a fishtail dress with very little detailing and a long train. My plan is to have the train removed and turned into a beautiful keepsake by lovemeforeverkeepsakes.com, while the rest of the dress I’d like to have dyed so that I can reuse it someday.

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SAVE THE DAT E

Planning a 2017 wedding or getting ahead of the game for 2018? Get started here with our top wedding fayres and events in your local area... CAMBRIDGESHIRE EAST OF ENGLAND VALENTINE’S WEDDING SHOW 19 February, 10. 30am - 3pm East of England Showground, Oundle Road, Peterborough PE2 6XE Entry £4. www.cupidsweddingshows.com THE CAMBRIDGE WEDDING FAIR 12 February, 11am - 3.30pm Anstey Hall Courtyard, Maris Lane, Cambridge, CB2 9LN. Free entry. www.wedding-exhibitions-uk.co.uk HOTEL FELIX 25 February, 11am – 3pm Whitehouse Lane, Huntingdon Road, Cambridge, CB3 0LX www.hotelfelix.co.uk ESSEX CHELMSFORD CITY RACECOURSE ESSEX WEDDING SHOW 4 -5 February, 11am – 3.30pm Chelmsford, Essex CM3 1QP Free entry. www.mainweddingsandevents.co.uk GAZETTE ULTIMATE ESSEX WEDDING SHOW 5 February, 10.30am – 3.30pm Entry £1. www.essexfairsandevents.co.uk/weddings GREENWOOD HOTEL WEDDING OPEN DAY 14 May Stock Road, Stock, Ingatestone CM4 9BE www.greenwoodshotel.com NORFOLK THE WEDDING PROM & PARTY SHOW 12 February, 10am – 4pm Holiday Inn Norwich - North, Cromer Road, Norwich, NR6 6JA. Free entry. BRIDE: THE WEDDING SHOW 18-19 February, 10am – 4pm

Norfolk Showground, Dereham Road, NR5 0TT Tickets are £8 for one, £14 for two, £25 for four www.theweddingshow.co.uk THE GREAT YARMOUTH WEDDING FAIR 5 March, 11am – 3pm Great Yarmouth Racecourse, Jellicoe Road, Great Yarmouth, NR30 4AU Free entry. www.greatyarmouth-racecourse.co.uk SUFFOLK THE SUFFOLK WEDDING SHOW 26 February, 10.30am – 3pm Wherstead Park, The Street, Wherstead, IP9 2BJ Free entry. www.thesuffolkweddingshow.co.uk ALTERNATIVE WEDDING OPEN WEEKEND 25-26 February, 11am – 3pm The Aquarium, Claremont Pier, Lowestoft, NR33 0BS BEDS AND HERTS THE KNEBWORTH HOUSE AND BARNS WEDDING FAIR 5 February, 11am – 4pm Stevenage, SG1 2AX www.wedding-exhibitions-uk.co.uk WOBURN ESTATE WEDDING FAIR Sunday 26 February, 10am-3.30pm Woburn Abbey and Gardens, Woburn, MK17 9WA www.woburnweddings.co.uk For more listings visit www.eastlife.co.uk/lifestyle/weddings

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Balance Transfers If you’ve debts you can’t repay, there are two key things to do: stop borrowing more and cut the interest rate. By cutting the rate, more of your repayments clear the actual debt rather than just help add profit to the lender. The main weapon to clear credit and store cards is a balance transfer, where you get a new credit card(s) that repays debts on existing cards for you, so you owe it, but at a far lower cost, for a small fee. The good news is right now there’s white hot competition in this market. So sort it now and stop paying more than needed. HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT BALANCE TRANSFER CARD DEAL There are a vast range of cards to choose from, ranging up to 43 months 0%. But it isn’t quite a simple as just go for the longest. 1. GO FOR THE LOWEST FEE IN THE TIME YOU’RE SURE YOU CAN REPAY. Most cards charge a one-off fee on the amount of debt transferred. So, for example, 3% is £30 per £1,000. Generally, the longer the 0% period, the bigger the fee. So what you need to do is calculate how long you think you’ll take to clear the debt, add a few months for safety, then pick the lowest fee within the time you need. If you’re not sure, play safe and go long. For example, the longest card available at the time of writing is the www.MBNA.co.uk up to 43 mths 0%, with a 3.29% fee. The longest no-fee card is www.Halifax.co.uk up to 26 mths 0%.

CONSUMER

Martin Lewis Talks...

2. YOU NEED A PERSONALISED BEST BUY TABLE. Each lender credit scores you differently, where one accepts, others reject. Best buy tables just list the best offers available, but what really counts is what you can be accepted for. Worse still, the only way to find out what you’ll actually get is to apply, and that marks your credit file. Yet we’ve seen a new range of tools that show your likely chances of acceptance before applying, protecting your credit score. Some card firms have their own or my Eligibility Calculator (www.mse.me/BTeligibility) shows your chances for most top cards, effectively giving you a personal best buy table. 3. MANY CARDS ARE ‘UP TOS’. With these cards, only 51% of accepted applicants need get the advertised 0% length, the rest could get a shorter deal. So, in many cases, the cards that aren’t ‘up tos’ can be better. The longest non-up to 0% deal is www.SainsburysBank.co.uk 42mth 0% for a 3.5% fee, and it also has the longest fee free deal at 25mth 0%. This is especially important when you do a eligibility comparison. If all your accepted cards are ‘up to’ cards, then the likelihood is you won’t get the full 0%. So even if there’re one or two non ‘up to’ deals there, they may be worth looking at. ARE YOU IN DEBT CRISIS? The solutions above are for those who can manage their debts. Yet if you a) can’t meet even the minimum monthly payments b) have non-mortgage debts bigger than a year’s salary or c) can’t sleep due to your debts, or have depression or anxiety because of them, then you’re in what I define as debt crisis. Forget the above and get free, one-on-one debt-counselling help from www.CitizensAdvice.org, www.capuk.org, www.StepChange.org or www.NationalDebtline.co.uk. They are there to help, not judge. The most common thing I hear after is: “I finally got a good night’s sleep”. Find more advice at www.moneysavingexpert.cocom/latesttip

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We stock the leading brands including Jøtul, Scan, Stovax, Dovre, Yeoman, Gazco, ACR Stoves, Hunter, Cleanburn, Di Lusso, Woodwarm, Burley, Aga and Vermont with up to off ex-display models. Visit our showroom in Stowmarket called Classic Stoves and Fireplaces or visit our showroom in Long Melford to view our Lacanche, Aga and Rayburn ranges. Stocking good quality kiln dried wood, kindling and flammers from Certainly Wood. We also deal in barbeques, pizza ovens and te terrace heaters.

Follow us! Web: classicstovesandfireplaces.co.uk Email: sales@classicstovesandfireplaces.co.uk Tel: 01449 678659 Unit 16 • Charles Industrial Estate • Stowmarket • Suffolk • IP14 5AH Tel: 01787 313699 Foundry House • Hall Street • Long Melford • CO10 9JR

IN THE

SPOTLIGHT: ST FRANCIS’ COLLEGE

FACT FILE NAME: Bronwen Goulding COMPANY: St. Francis’ College, founded in 1933 LOCATION: Letchworth Garden City, Hertfordshire

TELL US ABOUT ST. FRANCIS’ COLLEGE: We are a day and boarding school for girls aged 3-18. St. Francis’ is a happy and thriving community providing a modern education based on Christian principles. Small class sizes, individual attention and a supportive, caring environment help ensure that each and every girl enjoys their education and reaches their full potential, academically, socially and in a wide range of activities and extra-curricular pursuits. The College is run by St. Francis’ College Trust, an educational charity, as a multi-denominational Christian community, ecumenical in outlook, welcoming pupils of all faiths. WHAT ROLE DO YOU PLAY IN THE SCHOOL? Headmistress. So I am the leader of the College, responsible for the education of all pupils, management of staff and for policy making. Ultimately responsible for the smooth running of St. Francis’, supported by the Governors and Senior Leadership Team. WHAT MAKES YOUR SCHOOL SPECIAL? St. Francis’ College is known for its warm and welcoming community, where the staff are committed and dedicated to the well-being and intellectual development of all the girls here. One pupil recently commented that “The staff at St.

Francis’ are on the journey with you.” Parents of new girls regularly feed back about how welcome their daughter has been made to feel. The current staff and girls call it a “St. Francis’ Thing”! WHAT DO YOU LIKE BEST ABOUT YOUR LINE OF WORK? The opportunity to make a real difference to the lives of young women. To support them, care for them, inspire them and encourage them is a real privilege. WHAT IS YOUR BUSINESS’ BIGGEST CHALLENGE? Independent Education faces many challenges in today’s environment: new grammar schools, Brexit, exam reform to name a few. In the news we hear more stories about the pressures today’s teenagers face and the increase in mental health issues amongst this age group. At St. Francis’ College we take a very proactive stance to develop strategies early in the girls’ academic careers to promote positive mental health and resilience to cope in the stressful world in which they find themselves. Staff have received training on Growth Mindset and lessons throughout the College endeavour to promote the idea that intelligence can be developed. We are also fortunate to have staff trained in Teen Yoga. WHAT CAN EASTLIFE READERS EXPECT FROM ST. FRANCIS’ COLLEGE THIS YEAR? St. Francis’ plans to continue delivering its high standard of education. We look forward to celebrating the achievements of all our girls over the forthcoming year and seeing our Year 13 girls successfully make the transition to their chosen Universities. www.st-francis.herts.sch.uk

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Brand new bigger showroom Now Open Come and visit us at Unit 2J Merlin Court, Lancaster Way Business Park, Witchford. CB6 3GN

We offer a full bespoke lighting design service from conception to installation

Witchford lighting Centre Ltd www.witchfordlighting.co.uk 01353 664108

Welcome to Woodstone Bathrooms, Tiles & Wood Flooring

Our Opening Times: Mon - Fri : 10am - 5pm Sat : 10am - 3pm Woodstone Bathrooms 15 Bedford Street Ampthill Bedfordshire MK45 2LU Woodstone is a family run business with over 25 years experience. We have a wide range of quality bathrooms, tiles & wood flooring available to view in our showroom

Please visit our website www.woodstonebathrooms.com

Telephone: 01525 406728 email:woodstonebathrooms@gmail.com

ROAD TEST: 2017 MAZDA3

FACTS AT

GLANCE

MODEL: Mazda 3 SE-L Nav- Hatchback PRICE: £21,195otr ENGINE: 1.5 litre SKYACTIV-G 105PS PERFORMANCE: 0-62mph in 11 seconds and on to a top speed of 115 mph CO2 EMISSIONS: 99g/km COMBINED FUEL CONSUMPTION: 74.3MPG Written by Sue Cooke Twitter @cookecars A new study by price comparison website Money Super Market reveals some cities in East Anglia are the riskiest places to be a driver in England. The analysis is based on car accidents, road rage and road quality, along with statistics about vehicle crime. Drivers are at their angriest in Lincoln which comes fifth with a massive 61 per cent of people who said that they’d experienced extreme frustration behind the wheel. Fifty four per cent of local drivers in Peterborough, which ranks 13th, say they have fallen prey to road rage. But hey, February is the month of love and there are plenty of reasons to embrace this emotion full heartedly – the days are getting longer, the evenings lighter, and before you know it, it will be Spring. And if you can avoid the road rage hot spots in our region, there are plenty of reasons to love driving, particularly if you have bought the 2017 Mazda3. My week of road testing the mid-sized four-door model turned out to be carefree and relaxing. This fastback saloon is one of those few cars that seem to drive themselves, with little need for input from the driver, other than putting the route in the sat nav! Which is why it’s one of the company’s best sellers. Highlights include subtle exterior changes to the bold styling and updates to the premium quality cabin. The adoption of an electric parking brake creates space for a more practical centre console,

while another highlight is a new leather steering wheel design that enhances feel and style. And as the wintry weather lingers, I much appreciated the heated leather seats. What helps to fuel Mazda3 sales is the brand’s award-winning SKYACTIV engine technology, which delivers the twin key attributes of low carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions, so owners pay little or no road tax and first-class fuel economy. I road tested the smooth, frugal and sub 100g/km 1.5-litre SKYACTIV-D diesel engine which Mazda added to the ‘3’ last year. This engine now features Transient Control, which ensures a more positive throttle response by reducing turbo lag and boosting torque which delivers a petrol-like engine feel. And it does all this in a very refined way with just the right amount of acceleration when quick overtaking is required. Refinement has also been enhanced thanks to the introduction of Mazda’s Natural Sound Smoother technology, which reduces knock noise during starting and low-speed acceleration on diesel engines. The Mazda3 is a popular fleet car due to low CO2 and top-notch MPG which are proving attractive when factored against a monthly lease rate, which reflects annual mileage and excellent residual values. It does everything it says it will on the box with devoted precision, refinement and passion. Just right for spreading love and adoration during the month of February!

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CONSERVATORY

HOME & GARDEN

Does your

ADD VALUE TO YOUR

HOME? Thinking of adding a conservatory to your home? Here are some great reasons to do so…

Extending your living space by adding a conservatory or orangery can add between 5-11% on the price of your home, depending on style and size of the addition. Of course, there are factors that impact the return that you will see. Auburn Hill (www.ahorangeries.co.uk) list some of the ways that you can ensure your extension is an investment: SEAMLESS INTEGRATION It’s not unknown for conservatories to appear as if they have just been bolted onto the back of a home. Modern trends call for conservatories and orangeries to be seamlessly integrated with the original building – this means avoiding rooms that are separated with their own entrance. For example, using the same flooring as the rest of the downstairs and the same décor means that the spaces flow flawlessly. The exterior of new space needs to be aesthetically sympathetic to the rest of the building, and failure to choose a conservatory that is not in-keeping with the style of the house can deeply impact the return that the space provides. Take great care when choosing fixtures and fittings; if you have spent a substantial sum on the build – you can affect the value by opting for cheap or substandard fixtures or fittings and risk the return on your investment. It’s worth considering modern trends when it comes to the material that you decide to use for the build; while PVCu has been a popular choice for a long time, society has become more environmentally

conscious and aluminium and hardwood buildings offer more eco credentials.

MAXIMISE THE LIGHT IN THE SPACE The expansive glazing in conservatories make them bright, light and airy spaces in their own right, but they also flood the adjoining space with light too. Before embarking on the build, you should consider how you will use it along with the direction that your garden faces. For east facing gardens, the room will receive early morning sun making them ideal breakfast rooms, west facing gardens have the benefit of the afternoon sun and north facing

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We are a specialist paving and landscaping contractors dedicated to producing beautifully crafted and carefully executed work to individual clients’ specifications adding your very own touch to your property. We liase closely with our customers in order to guarantee complete satisfaction and peace of mind. No job is too big or too small and all of our work carries our full guarantee. Our expertise will ensure that each project is properly organised and efficiently completed to the highest possible standard. We also guarentee to beat any genuine, like for like written quotation.

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FUNCTIONAL ALL YEAR ROUND As previously mentioned, a vast ma jority of the conservatory build will be glazing; so in order to use the space all year round, it’s worth investing in glazing that will insulate the room and minimise heat exchange.

gardens remain a cool place to relax throughout the summer. If you are opting for an orangery, be aware that traditionally, these rooms don’t have as much glazing as conservatories, but by adding an elegant skylight you maximise the light coming into the room – and make an attractive focal point too.

FOUNDATIONS In the same way that the aesthetics of the building need to be compatible, the foundations must be treated in the same way. For instance, if you reside in a period property then great care must be taken due to modern building regulations. The original foundations will be much more shallow and the new foundations will need to accommodate settlement between the two structures. It is also essential that the existing period property can still ‘breathe’ with the new space. Modern materials like waterproof sealants and damp proof membranes act as a barrier, preventing a building from breathing, leading to damp. Flooring can be an issue, for instance, the underfloor ventilation of suspended floors should not become blocked.

Modern glazing options use panels filled with Argon gas, although they are more costly than standard glass, they aid the room in retaining heat because of Argons insulating abilities. Argon filled glass can reduce energy ratings by up to 30%. It also reduces condensation, which can cause further problems such as damp and mould. Traditional conservatory builds use polycarbonate roofs, which are extremely inefficient when it comes to retaining heat – using a thermos-efficient glass roof or anti-glare, reflective glass or solid roof with a roof lantern allows you to enjoy the room in all seasons. Temperature control and insulation are important elements when it comes to your new space; rooms that are poorly heated or over heat during the summer will negatively affect the value that they could potentially add. Earlier, we touched upon the importance of seamless integration between the main house and the addition – this rule applies to the heating of the room also. Extending your central heating is one of the best ways to heat these spaces. The radiators should be sized accordingly to how big the space is and located based on the foot print of the new extension. If you do decide to extend the central heating, be sure to check that the current boiler and system capacity is adequate.

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THINKING OF

A NEW KITCHEN

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Replacement doors Replace worn-out, damaged and out-of-fashion cabinet doors with made-to-measure fittings in a fantastic choice of colour, finishes and designs, for base and wall units.

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At Granite Transformations, we offer a complete package for updating your kitchen work surfaces, splashbacks, cabinet doors and appliances. Fitting stunning new worktops is fast and effective, with each top custom-made to your exact specifications. There is no need to remove your old worktops, since we simply fit our beautiful, hardwearing surfaces straight on top, meaning no dust, debris or disruption and ensuring complete peace of mind. To complete the new look, we can also supply and fit made-to-measure replacement cabinet doors and drawer fronts in a wide choice of colours, finishes and styles.

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HOW TO THINK LIKE AN INTERIOR DESIGNER

Decorating your home can often prove difficult as there are so many trends out there, it can be sometimes hard to understand which colours, surfaces and patterns can be most suited to your home and existing decor. However, it’s time to try and think like an interior designer. You are probably wondering how you can do this, but with these clever tips from www.fashionwallpaper.co.uk, anything is achievable:

create a warm or cool vibe? What do you use the room for, to entertain or to relax? Ensure that you have thoroughly analysed every aspect before injecting colour into a space, such as the lighting.

The first step in the process is to identify your budget, as this can be the indicator of what you can decorate in a particular time frame and can highlight how much you can spend on materials, tools and interiors.

It is important to pick a fashionable yet timeless piece. Also, it is essential to make sure that furniture is ultra comfortable, alongside being stylish.

Create a floor plan to ensure that all of your rooms flow into each other in regards to their décor. Also, it will allow you to see how well different pieces of furniture can fit into the different angles of the room which will make the buying process easier. The colour palette which you choose can alter the overall atmosphere of the room, do you want to

A large piece of furniture such as a sofa or dining room table is an investment rather than just a purchase, so ensure that it will still look good and be on trend in seasons to come.

You don’t need to buy every item brand new, not only will this save you some cash but it will also create character in the home. Visit antique stores, charity shops and auctions in order to pick up one off quirky pieces. It is essential to create a thorough plan when decorating your home which will allow you to create the most stylish yet comfortable space which you will want to spend tonnes of time in.

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Over 100 models on display in our superb showroom. Live displays and demonstrations. Opening times 9am to 5pm Tuesday to Saturday. Closed on Sunday and Monday. Garden House Farm, Middleton, Saxmundham, Suffolk IP17 3LU

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CoastalStoves.co.uk We are a family-run business and offer a wide and varied selection of woodburning, Multi-Fuel and Gas Stoves. In our showroom in Holt, we have several on display and below are just a small selection of those on offer... ** NOW ALSO **

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A WHITE GARDEN Kate Gould is an award-winning garden designer with more than a decade’s hands-on experience transforming gardens of all sizes. www.kategouldgardens.com

As I looked out at the garden today my thoughts turned to the fact that the clocks alter at the end of next month which means that the garden will begin to emerge from its icy hibernation and rocket into life. My garden is heavily weighted towards late summer colour so I have thought for many years that a small patch for June and early July would help extend the seasons as well as the plant palette. The autumn garden is tones of crushed raspberry and yellow but earlier in the year the colours, like the sun are sharper and more defined. I would like my newly planted area to be mainly shades of white with highlights from allium, which I may have to wait until the autumn to add if I cannot source them in containerised form. The area I have allocated is not large, about 4mx2m and faces almost due south. The backdrop to the new planting is an existing, mature Acer palmatum ‘Bloodgood’ which will add contrast with its plum coloured leaves - or at least that is the plan.

blooms as an added bonus make wonderful cut flowers. I always think of roses as quintessentially English and so this sets the tone of the scheme.

With so many plants to pick from it is hard to pin down a sensible number of choices. The temptation to have one of everything I love is still very great, even after almost 40 years gardening but if I am to really harden my heart then I should start with form so, Buxus for impact – a squat low ball at each end.

Other plants that I will be considering are: • Aquilegia x hybrida ‘Green Apples‘ • Lupinus ‘Noble Maiden’ • Geranium phaeum ‘Album’ • Campanula latifolia var. ‘Alba’ • Astrantia ma jor ‘Buckland’ • Paeonia lactiflora ‘Festiva maxima’

A small shrub would be nice, perhaps a Philadelphus (P. ‘Belle Etolie’ would be my ideal) but I think it is going to grow too large so I opt for Rosa ‘Margaret Merril’ instead. At about 1.5m high and 1m wide this rose provides colour and scent in a relatively compact form from June to September and the

As with all new planting schemes the key to long term success is in the soil preparation. You can purchase the best plants from top nurseries but if you plant them in poor ground they will only ever be a shadow of the self they could be with good ground and added organic fertilizer.

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Painting by Paul Bailey

Written by Collette Hoefkens, proprietor at Norton Way Gallery and an artist in her own right. As February unfolds, the days begin to stretch and linger. So, with a hint of watery sunshine, why not brave the elements and journey to one of the county’s wonderful independent art galleries? This month sees Suffolk’s Sea Pictures Gallery open its doors again after its January break. Nestled in the heart of Clare (Suffolk’s smallest town), the gallery’s 2017 calendar kicks off with an exhibition titled ‘Totally New’. As one might expect, we are to be treated to a selection of superb artists, each showing for the first time at this highly respected venue. The painters, Elizabeth Smith, Tracey Ross and Paul Bailey create a diverse spectrum of colour and texture. Each has a unique way of capturing the essence of land and sea. Elizabeth’s serene pastels have an affect of calm on the viewer. By contrast both Tracey and Paul excite us with drama and suspense. Ceramics from Kate Schuricht and Jessica Sian Moulsher add further depth to this exhibition and jewellery from Lisa Bambridge makes the collection complete. Elizabeth Smith is well known for her sensitive pastel paintings depicting scenes of natural and man-made beauty. Tracey Ross’ joy of life explodes from each of her canvases. Rich mark-making, texture and colour

ARTS

THE ARTS COLUMN

Ceramics by Kate Schuricht

51 Norton Way, N, Letchworth Garden City, Herts SG6 1BH Tel: 01462 685139 www.nortonwaygallery.com

unite to create mixed media paintings of space, atmosphere and energy. The works of Paul Bailey are awesome and commanding Acrylics of raw and wild landscape. They exude a sense of weather, time and space. Huge foregrounds dare us to cross his terrains of grass, sea and ploughed earth. Continuing a natural theme are the ceramics of long established Kate Schuricht. Delicate and powerful, her elegant raku forms suggest character and place. Some almost appear to flock together whilst others stand erect weathering the elements. By contrast are the architecturally inspired vessels from newly graduated Jessica Sian Moulsher. Last but not least, is the excellent and imaginative jeweler Lisa Bainbridge. Inspired by the Norfolk land and seascape, her wearable works of art are fashioned from silver, gold, precious and semi precious stones. Totally New, 2 February – 6 March Sea Pictures Gallery, Well House, Well Lane, Clare Suffolk, CO10 8NH Tel: 01787 279024 | www.seapicturesgallery.com

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BOBB-IN & SEW NOW SUPPLYING WOOL & TAKING IN ALTERATIONS

WE ARE YOUR ONE-STOP DRESSMAKING SHOP COME ALONG AND FIND SOME WOOL TO SNUGGLE UP WITH THIS WINTER

Open 5 days a week Mon, Thurs, Fri, Sat 10.00 - 5.00, Weds 12.00 - 5.00 Closed Tuesday and Sunday - Free / Disabled Parking Find us at the Raptor Foundation St Ives Road, Woodhurst, Huntingdon PE28 3BT 01487 842546

SPRING PERFORMANCES

CASSON & FRIENDS SATURDAY 4 FEBRUARY

SPRING SHOWCASE SATURDAY 11 FEBRUARY U.DANCE EAST SUNDAY 12 FEBRUARY

SHOBANA JEYASINGH DANCE FRIDAY 24 FEBRUARY THE INKWELL SATURDAY 11 MARCH

London Classic Theatre Terry Johnson’s Award Winning Comedy

HYSTERIA

TAVAZIVA FRIDAY 31 MARCH

NORTHERN BALLET SATURDAY 8 APRIL JOSÉ AGUDO FRIDAY 28 APRIL

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JAMES COUSINS COMPANY FRIDAY 5 MAY

FEBRUARY ARTS NEWS

High Diver at the Olympic Games

GODS OF SPORT - FIFTY YEARS OF SPORTING PHOTOGRAPHY ‘Gods of Sport’ by Chris Smith is the second temporary exhibition at the National Heritage Centre for Horseracing & Sporting Art, which was opened by The Queen on 3rd November 2016. The exhibition will run from 26 January to 18 June at the Temporary Exhibition Gallery. Chris Smith has devoted half a century to capturing the drama, beauty, challenges and elation of sport. This exhibition celebrates five decades of Smiths iconic work, with over 50 photographs including Mohamed Ali, George Best, Ayrton Senna, Seve Ballesteros, Lester Piggott, Sir Henry Cecil along with a selection from Olympic Games in Barcelona, Montreal and Moscow.

‘Life in English Village’

LIFE IN AN ENGLISH VILLAGE OPENS AT BRAINTREE MUSEUM An exhibition of prints and drawings by the internationally famous Bardfield Artists, including original 1940s black and white sketches by Edward Bawden unseen for 20 years will be shown at Braintree Museum from 26 January to 15 April 2017. The exhibition will feature drawings and lithographs by Edward Bawden from the King Penguin publication Life in an English Village published in 1949. The black and white sketches which have been generously lent by Bardfield Historical Society show everyday life in this North Essex village from Mr Bone’s Butcher shop to Reverend Cartwright writing a sermon and Miss Duffield’s classroom to the artist John Aldridge having a drink in The Bell public house. Edward Bawden’s illustrations are a fantastic snapshot of Great Bardfield Village at a specific moment in time.

In the smaller upstairs temporary exhibition space there will be an additional temporary exhibition named ‘Boxiana: Heroes of the Ring’. This will explore the prize-fighters from Daniel Mendoza and Richard Humphries in 1788 through to the inaugural ‘world title’ international boxing match that took place between Sayers and Heenan. www.palacehousenewmarket.co.uk

THE BAZAAR AT THE MINORIES The Waiting Room Bazaar has found a new home at the Minories Galleries, and will run on the first Saturday of the month, 11am – 4pm starting from Saturday 4 February 2017. The Bazaar is a monthly market run by local designers, makers, artists and food producers from around Colchester. After closing at the Waiting Room community at St Botolph’s in Colchester at the end of last year the the Bazaar will continue on at its close neighbour, the Minories Galleries. Local producers will be hosted upstairs in our wonderful period rooms, spilling out into the garden when weather allows. There will also be opportunities to sign up for workshops and artist-led sessions that will run alongside the Bazaar.

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Earsham Hall (Page) Feb 17 v2.qxp_Layout 1 23/01/2017 12:13 Page 1

Our extensive showrooms house the largest range of pine, oak & hand painted furniture in East Anglia, traditional fireplaces, surrounds and accessories, solid brass lighting, mirrors, prints, giftware and decorative accessories.

Monday - Saturday 9.00am – 5.00pm • Sunday 10.30pm – 5.00pm • Bank Holidays 9.00am – 5.00pm Tel: 01986 893 423 - Email: enquiries@earshamhall.co.uk - Web: www.earshamhall.co.uk

EARSHAM HALL, BUNGAY, SUFFOLK, NR35 2AN FURNITURE LIGHTING FIREPLACES GIFTS TEAROOM KITCHENS EVENTS

BECCLES BU N GAY Lying in the north of Suffolk in the Waveney Valley are two unique towns. You may initially think to by-pass them but read-on to uncover why they are full of Suffolk character and worthy of a visit this spring.

SUFFOLK

A Day in

BECCLES AND BEYOND Beccles lies on the banks of the River Waveney and is a charming market town described as peaceful as it is popular. It is made up of small market squares and winding streets with unusual and quirky independent shops, restaurants and cafes. The River Waveney which divides the counties of Norfolk and Suffolk offers visitors to Beccles the opportunity to take plenty of river walks and take to the river too. The Marsh Trail which starts from the Quay in Beccles leads you through typical grazing marshes on routes in length from 1.5 miles, which are suitable for wheelchair users, up to those 4 miles long. A visit to Beccles should include a visit to the popular quayside, once a herring port, which is now home to a myriad of cruisers. Here you can take a day cruiser which gives you access to explore the Southern Broads with its pubs, cafés, and picnic areas where you can relax, unwind, and simply enjoy watching the water and wildlife. If taking the helm is not for you, there is the Big dog ferry which runs from spring through to autumn on a 3-mile journey between Beccles Lido and Geldeston Locks Inn. The Locks Inn which was granted a public house license in the 17th Century is situated far out into the marshes. NEXT STOP IS BUNGAY Head approximately 6.5 miles west from Beccles along the B1602 and you will arrive in a town rich in folklore, culture and real ale.

Beccles Quay, The Suffolk Coast

Bungay’s famous folklore tale is of Black Shuck, Old Shuck or simply Shuck and is the name given to a ghostly black dog which is said to have allegedly appeared in 1577 at Bungay. There are references to this ‘devil dog’ throughout the town with even gin and beer being named after it. This charming town has the remains of a Norman Castle, with a visitor centre, café and gift shop. There is plenty of interpretive material on display to help you imagine what the castle would have been like in the early 12th Century. Admission to the Castle Keep is free, but donations are welcomed. To find out more about all the treasures in this town, there is the Bungay Town Trail. The trail starts from the Market Place and will take around two hours to complete. There are several other walks that can be started from near the Castle, the Bigod Way, being a popular one for the more experienced walker. This walk is around 10 miles long and takes in many

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FACT BOX To get there by bus and train By Bus: Local bus services to Beccles Bus Station leave from Lowestoft and Norwich. Timetables and further information can be found at www.suffolkonboard.com By Train: The town’s rail station is located on Station Road, Beccles, NR34 9QW. The nearest train station for Bungay is located at Beccles (15 minute journey by car or taxi from station) Marsh Trail - www.visitwaveneyvalley.co.uk Blackdog Ferry www.bigdogferry.co.uk – Runs from Easter - October (Charters available). Tel. 07532 072 761 (8am-8pm) for info and bookings

Bungay Town Centre, The Suffolk Coast

Bungay town trail - www.bungay-suffolk.co.uk Canoe Hire - outneymeadow.co.uk

sites of historical interest along with the opportunity to view rare plants and a variety of wildlife. If real ale appeals there is the Bungay Real Ale Trail where you can stop off and sample a range of local ales, with many of the original thirty-three 20th Century drinking houses still in operation. Well worth a visit is the close-by St. Peters Brewery based at St. Peter South Elmham. From Easter until end of December you can go on a brewery tour to see how they brew ‘traditional’ beers as well as some of their more unusual beers such as honey porter and fruit beer. The meandering and scenic Waveney valley is a popular place for canoeists to take to the river. Canoes are available to hire for adults and children from Outney Meadow Caravan Park in Bungay. This is a great way to enjoy the countryside and hopefully spot some of the wildlife living close-by or on the river. To find out about more things to see and do in Beccles and Bungay www.visitsuffolk.com Article courtesy of Visit Suffolk

St Peter’s Brewery

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Beccles Sewing & Handicrafts

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WHAT’S ON in Suffolk THEATRE, FILM AND SHOWS 2-11 Feb Northanger Abbey At 17, she is taken by her aunt to Bath where she encounters the social whirl denied her at home. When Catherine accepts an invitation to the Tilney’s country seat at Northanger Abbey, lurid images from her favourite gothic novel The Mysteries of Udolpho threaten to overwhelm her. However, all misunderstandings are eventually resolved and, as in all the best Jane Austen novels, the young heroine finally gets her man… Theatre Royal, Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1QR. 01284 769505. www.theatreroyal.org

The pioneering literary work of Virginia Woolf is the inspiration for multiaward-winning choreographer Wayne McGregor’s brilliant triptych for The Royal Ballet. Fisher Theatre, Broad Street, Bungay, NR35 1EE. 01986 897130. www.fishertheatre.org

5-Feb An Evening with Ipswich Town Football Club Legends The ITFC Legends return to the Theatre, after sell-out events here in 2014 and 2015, for another lively and unmissable evening of stories and anecdotes about the Club and their careers, to entertain fans of ITFC, both young and old! Theatre Royal, Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1QR. 01284 769505. www.theatreroyal.org

14-Feb So You Think You Know About Dinosaurs? With the help of TV film footage and photos of his own palaeontological dinosaur digs, Ben will tell you everything you ever wanted to know about dinosaurs - and more! The Apex, 1 Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 3FD. 01284 758000, www.theapex.co.uk

7-Feb Home A tale of unexpected friendship exploring a new and unknown world. ‘Home’ immerses audiences with Profound and Multiple Learning Disabilities (PMLD) in a multi-sensory story of discovery. The Seagull, 19-75 Morton Road, Lowestoft NR33 0JH. 01502 589726. www.theseagull.co.uk 8-9 Feb The Wizard Of Oz After losing an argument with a tornado, Kansas farm girls Dorothy and Toto find themselves lost in the mysterious Land of Oz and up against a very Wicked Witch of the West. The Seagull, 19-75 Morton Road, Lowestoft, NR33 0JH. 01502 589726. www.theseagull.co.uk 9-Feb Swan Lake At moonlight on the banks of a mysterious lake, Prince Siegfried meets the bewitched swan-woman Odette. Fisher Theatre, Broad Street, Bungay, NR35 1EE. 01986 897130. www.fishertheatre.org 11-Feb Once Upon a Fairytale An all singing, dancing, magical show featuring all your favourite princesses and other fairytale characters. The Seagull, 19-75 Morton Road, Lowestoft, NR33 0JH. 01502 589726. www.theseagull.co.uk 10-Feb Brendan Cole - All Night Long Brendan hosts another spectacular production featuring his guest dancers, singers and 14 piece band live on stage. Stunning lighting, amazing special effects and superb choreography. Ipswich Regent Theatre, 3 Saint Helen’s Street, Ipswich, IP4 1HE. 01473 433100. apps.ipswich.gov.uk/PEO 12-Feb Woolf Works

12-13 Feb Alice In Wonderland Imagination runs wild and logic is abandoned in this fantastical, larger-than-life musical brimming with nonsensical fun and excitement for the entire family. Theatre Royal, Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1QR. 01284 769505. www.theatreroyal.org

15-Feb Miles Jupp : Songs of Freedom Astronauts. Regrets. The sexes. Social Media. Hipsters. Poo. Rage. Medicine. Manners. Identity. Lost stuff. Other stuff. Theatre Royal, Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1QR. 01284 769505 www.theatreroyal.org 15-Feb Rapunzel and the Tower of Doom This Grimm tale goes back to its dark roots, teases out the tangles and styles it into a beautifully coiffured hair piece! Haverhill Arts Centre, High Street, Haverhill, CB9 8AR. 01440 714140 www.haverhillartscentre.co.uk 16-Feb William Shakespeare’s Long Lost First Play (Abridged) In a better-late-than-never nod to the Bard’s 400th anniversary, the bad boys of abridgement present this ‘new’ play by the man himself, as discovered in a Leicester car park! Theatre Royal, Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1QR. 01284 769505. www.theatreroyal.org 16-Feb A Real Alien Adventure An intergalactic space adventure with shadow play, gadgets and cats in space. Miss Amelia Buttersnap, investigator of all things unseen and mysterious, inventor of gadgets both marvellous and improbable is on a mission to prove that aliens really do exist. The Seagull, 19-75 Morton Road, Lowestoft, NR33 0JH. 01502 589726 www.theseagull.co.uk 18-19 Feb Wish Wish, an original script and a original cast bringing love, laughter and loss into one big musical! The Seagull, 19-75 Morton Road, Lowestoft NR33 0JH. 01502 589726. www.theseagull.co.uk 19-Feb Richard Herring: The Best Richard Herring picks his favourite routines from his 12 one-man shows and

crams them into 90 minutes for your delectation. Theatre Royal, Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1QR. 01284 769505. www.theatreroyal.org 20-Feb The Wisdom Club A rehearsed reading of a play that looks at the attitudes to the elderly now. Theatre Royal, Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1QR. 01284 769505 www.theatreroyal.org 20-Feb Saint Joan Bernard Shaw’s classic play follows the life and trial of a young country girl who declares a bloody mission to drive the English from France. Fisher Theatre, Broad Street, Bungay, NR35 1EE. 01986 897130. www.fishertheatre.org 21-25 Feb Hysteria Terry Johnson’s hilarious farce explores the fallout when two of the twentieth century’s most brilliant and original minds collide. Theatre Royal, Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1QR. 01284 769505. www.theatreroyal.org 21-Feb I, Claude Monet Using letters and other private writings, a gripping documentary about a man who behind his sun-dazzled canvases, often suffered from feelings of depression, loneliness, even suicide. Haverhill Arts Centre, High Street, Haverhill, CB9 8AR. 01440 714140. www.haverhillartscentre.co.uk 22-Feb Lee Nelson: Serious Joker After getting into trouble for sneaking into places he shouldn’t be, Lee Nelson is back where he most definitely should be... live on stage with his brand-new, laugh-out-loud, best ever stand-up show. The Apex, 1 Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 3FD. 01284 758000 www.theapex.co.uk 23-Feb Round the Horne With its infamous movie spoofs and hilarious regular characters such as Rambling Sid Rumpo, Charles and Fiona, J. Peasemold Gruntfuttock, and Julian and Sandy, Round the Horne was one of the biggest and best radio comedy shows of all time, and still endures today, 50 years on. Marina Theatre, The Marina, Lowestoft, NR32 1HH. 01502 533200 www.marinatheatre.co.uk 24-Feb Menopause The Musical This hysterical show packed full of one-liners about night sweats, hot flushes and memory loss is backed by an instantly recognisable soundtrack of innuendo-laden versions of 60s, 70s and 80s pop classics. Marina Theatre, The Marina, Lowestoft, NR32 1HH. 01502 533200. www.marinatheatre.co.uk 25-Feb Rusalka Kristine Opolais stars in the role that helped launch her international career, the mythical Rusalka, who sings the haunting Song to the Moon. Fisher

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Theatre, Broad Street, Bungay, NR35 1EE. 01986 897130. www.fishertheatre.org 25-Feb Newsies – The Broadway Musical Based on a true story, ‘Newsies’ is the rousing tale of Jack Kelly, a charismatic newsboy and leader of a ragged band of teenage ‘newsies,’ who dreams only of a better life far from the hardship of the streets. Marina Theatre, The Marina, Lowestoft, NR32 1HH. 01502 533200. www.marinatheatre.co.uk

such as Diana Ross, Celine Dion & Dionne Warwick. Ipswich Regent Theatre, 3 Saint Helen’s Street, Ipswich, IP4 1HE. 01473 433100. apps.ipswich.gov.uk/PEO 18-Feb Showaddywaddy Their live show is dynamic and uplifting featuring all of their biggest hits, many of which reached number one in the pop charts of Europe. Marina Theatre, The Marina, Lowestoft, NR32 1HH. 01502 533200. www.marinatheatre.co.uk

28-Feb Thrive A visually stunning new production staged within a large set that surrounds the audience. Created especially for teenage audiences, ‘Thrive’ takes on the challenging subject of trauma and beautifully portrays the unsayable. Marina Theatre, The Marina, Lowestoft, NR32 1HH 01502 533200. www.marinatheatre.co.uk

19-Feb Celtic Fiddle Festival Fiddlers Kevin Burke (Ireland), Christian Lemaître (Brittany, France) and Capercaillie’s own Charlie McKerron (Scotland) showcase a fascinating juxtaposition of international and individual styles. The Apex, 1 Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds IP33 3FD. 01284 758000. www.theapex.co.uk

MUSIC 10-Feb The Richard Digance Golden Anniversary Tour 2017 Join Richard for a celebration of his 50 years of songs and stories that led to a BAFTA Nomination and The British Academy of Composers Gold Award. The Seagull, 19-75 Morton Road, Lowestoft, NR33 0JH. 01502 589726. www.theseagull.co.uk

22-Feb Barbara Dickinson Barbara will perform a wonderful range of material drawing on her folk roots as well as performing globally known hits. Marina Theatre, The Marina, Lowestoft, NR32 1HH. 01502 533200. www.marinatheatre.co.uk

11-Feb Uncle Funk and the Boogie Wonderband Get down and boogie for the return of Uncle Funk and some classic 70s disco. Haverhill Arts Centre, High Street, Haverhill, CB9 8AR. 01440 714140. www.haverhillartscentre.co.uk 14-Feb Black Magic - The Little Mix Show This highly energetic tribute show follows in the footsteps of the award winning girl band with stunning live vocals and iconic dances. Kids and adults alike are sure to be partying in the aisles. Haverhill Arts Centre, High Street, Haverhill, CB9 8AR. 01440 714140. www.haverhillartscentre.co.uk 14-Feb Voice of the Heart – Karen Carpenter This stunning show celebrates the music of The Carpenters, and the evening is guaranteed to lead everyone through a magical memory. Theatre Royal, Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1QR. 01284 769505. www.theatreroyal.org 17-Feb Opera Cocktail Opera classics shaken with wit, stirred with drama and served with a contemporary twist. Theatre Royal, Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1QR. 01284 769505. www.theatreroyal.org 17-Feb The Sound Of Cash ‘The Sound of Johnny Cash’ is Rick McKay’s solo tribute to his childhood hero, featuring the very best of the legendary ‘ Man in Black’. The Seagull, 19-75 Morton Road, Lowestoft, NR33 0JH. 01502 589726. www.theseagull.co.uk 18-Feb Sounds of the Glenn Miller Era Recapture the sounds of a bygone era with the classic big band sound of the 1940s. Theatre Royal, Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1QR. 01284 769505. www.theatreroyal.org 18-Feb You Win Again – The Story of The Bee Gees Immerse yourself into the brother’s hits through the sixties, seventies & eighties, topped off with a glittering array of iconic artists they wrote for,

24-Feb The Bob Dylan Story Experience the thrill and energy of a fullblown Dylan tribute concert, enhanced by a top backing band and planted firmly in the 1960s. Fisher Theatre, Broad Street, Bungay, NR35 1EE. 01986 897130. www.fishertheatre.org 24-Feb Aaron Ecks Nova Slow down and unplug for a night of live ambient music, from musician and keyboardist Aaron Ecks. The Seagull, 19-75 Morton Road, Lowestoft, NR33 0JH. 01502 589726. www.theseagull.co.uk 24-Feb The Everly Brothers & Friends Tribute Show With acoustic guitars, flawless harmonies and all the hits performed in the original keys, go on a walk down memory lane. Haverhill Arts Centre, High Street, Haverhill, CB9 8AR. 01440 714140. www.haverhillartscentre.co.uk 24-Feb Jimi Hendrix & Cream - Voodoo Room Paying tribute to Jimi Hendrix & Cream - Voodoo Room are a stunning “Power Trio” featuring some of the UK’s finest musicians, performing an incredible show in the true spirit of these legendary superstars. The Cut, New Cut, Halesworth, IP19 8BY. 0300 3033 211. newcut.org 25-Feb Pams House 21st Birthday & Ipswich Reunion East Anglia’s biggest house music event returns to its home town for a nostalgic 21st Birthday party with DJ legends Alister Whitehead, Graeme Park & DJ Pants. Classic house music from late 90s & early 00s. Grand Hall, Corn Exchange, Ipswich, IP1 1DH. 01473 433100. www. ipswich.gov.uk/services/ipswich-townhall-and-corn-exchange ARTS & EXHIBITIONS 2 Feb - 6 Mar Totally New The first exhibition of the year is an opportunity to meet some new artists in the gallery. Paintings from Elizabeth Smith PRSMA, Tracey Ross and Paul Bailey together with ceramics from recent graduate Jessica Sian Moulsher and the very experienced Kate Schuricht. Sea Pictures Gallery, Well Lane, Clare, CO10 8NH. 01787 279024. www.seapicturesgallery.com

3-5 Feb FolkEast Weekend - Sandlings Sessions FolkEast are delighted to host a weekend of workshops, intimate performances and dance at Snape Maltings in the heart of the Suffolk Sandlings. Snape Maltings, Near Aldeburgh, IP17 1SR. 01728 688303. www.snapemaltings.co.uk/events/ category/arts 11-Feb Exhibition of 80s Curiosities At 11am enter your 80s curiosities displayed for the day to get us into an 80s mood. Make something or bring an 80s object – it can be anything from the 1980s. Fisher Theatre, Broad Street, Bungay, NR35 1EE. 01986 897130. www.fishertheatre.org 18-Feb Cut Loose Poets A monthly session designed to help release your inner creativity under the friendly expert guidance of Michael Laskey and Dean Parkin, two of the most enthusiastic experienced workshop leaders and poets you could hope to find. The Cut, New Cut, Halesworth, IP19 8BY. 0300 3033 211. newcut.org SPECIAL EVENTS 1-22 Feb Beginners Yoga - Lunchtime Class Every Wednesday 1pm-1.45pm. A new 45 minute lunch time class run by the Self Centre at The Apex, designed to allow you enough time to complete the class and grab a bite. The Apex, 1 Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 3FD. 01284 758000. www.theapex.co.uk 4-Feb Farmers’ Market Held at the Maltings on the first Saturday of every month, this exciting array of fresh produce – from vegetables, fruits and juices to locally-reared meats and delicious artisan bakes. 9.30am - 1pm. Snape Maltings, Near Aldeburgh, IP17 1SR. 01728 688 303. www.snapemaltings.co.uk 10-Feb Tidal Travel Log - Photography Strolls Explore the Suffolk coastline with your camera under the guidance of landscape photographer Jeremy Hennell James. The timing includes the ‘Golden Hour’, sunset, the Blue Hour‘ and moon rise whenever possible. All camera models are welcome. Kintail, Snape Bridge, IP17 1SP. 01728 688524. www.wasuffolk.com 16-Feb Foolhardy Circus Show The Foolhardy Circus troupe return with its new show Smile. Lashings of sumptuous comedy, a sheer meringue of circus skills and a creamy dollop of acrobatics. Fisher Theatre, Broad Street, Bungay, NR35 1EE. 01986 897130. www.fishertheatre.org 16-Feb The River Waveney Trust presents: A Talk by Tony Brown Breydon Water – a celebration of the life and times of the legendary Arthur Patterson. Fisher Theatre, Broad Street, Bungay, NR35 1EE. 01986 897130. www.fishertheatre.org ANTIQUES AND AUCTIONS 12-Feb Suffolk Antiques & collectors Fair 9.30am-4pm. Admission £1. Lavenham Village Hall, Church Street, CO10 9QT 18-19 Feb Clare Antiques Fair Over 30 antique and vintage dealers from all over the region. Admission £1 Open 9am - 4pm. Clare Town Hall, Market Hill, Clare, CO10 8NN.

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TRANSPORT & ENGINEERING HERITAGE IN OUR COUNTY TOWN

Over 100 major exhibits - all made or used in Ipswich!

OPEN EVERY SUNDAY and BANK HOLIDAY 11am - 4pm from 19th MARCH to 26th NOVEMBER Plus MONDAY to FRIDAY 1pm - 4pm during EASTER, SUMMER & AUTUMN School Holidays

See website for details and special events

Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re on Facebook & Google Streetview! The Old Trolleybus Depot, Cobham Road, Ipswich IP3 9JD

GIFT SHOP - TEA ROOM - WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE

enquiries@ipswichtransportmuseum.co.uk

THE SWAN MOTEL THE SWAN MOTEL, A MOTEL, RESTAURANT AND PUBLIC HOUSE SITUATED IN THE VILLAGE OF GILLINGHAM ON THE NORFOLK AND SUFFOLK BORDER JUST OUTSIDE THE MARKET TOWN OF BECCLES.

Fine Restaurant And Sunday Lunch We have 2 restaurants for you to dine in. We offer food from the main menu but we also have daily specials and bar food. We also have a carvery which is available on Sundays

The Bar Area At The Swan Friendly Staff, plenty of drinks and good company at The Gillingham Swan

Magnificent Rooms To Complete Your Stay We have 14 fully refurbished rooms for you to choose from including our DoubleDeluxe-Ensuite-Honeymoon Suite

Loddon Road, Gillingham, Beccles, Suffolk, NR34 0LD | 01502 470005

NORFOLK

SECRET NORFOLK Life in a Fine County

Written by Nicole Ranaweera

February – the month of love. A time where hearts, flowers and romance are everywhere you look, especially in Norfolk! Valentine’s Eve is especially important in our fine county as it is said that this is when Jack Valentine will pay you a visit, leaving an anonymous lavish gift. It’s unclear exactly when Jack Valentine first came about, but this special romantic tradition is certainly unique to Norfolk. Whilst some may still fully embrace and throw themselves wholeheartedly into Valentine’s Day, others, like my husband and I, can never quite bring ourselves to embrace the crazy commercialisation of this holiday. If Valentine’s Day is not really your thing either, have a read of my list of alternative Valentine ideas around Norfolk… 1. HOLLYWOOD INDOOR ADVENTURE GOLF, GREAT YARMOUTH | 01493 843504 Guaranteed to be almost empty on Valentine’s Day, this is the perfect time to perfect your swing! A few years ago my husband and I took a trip to Great Yarmouth on Valentine’s Day with a view to play some crazy golf along the seafront. Typically due to my lack of planning they were all closed, however this was the day we stumbled across the fantastic Hollywood indoor crazy golf in Great Yarmouth. It was almost like fate…

2. NORWICH GUILDHALL GHOSTLY DINNER, 10 FEBRUARY | ghostwalksnorwich.co.uk Celebrate a little early this year with a two course buffet dinner at the Guildhall whilst being entertained with tales of phantoms by Norwich Ghost Walk’s Man in Black. I suppose the romantic among us might find an excuse to cuddle up to their loved ones, but personally I think seeing a ghost is perfect for a un-Valentine’s Day! 3. FORGET A ROMANTIC MEAL IN AN OVERPRICED RESTAURANT – TRY OUT A DELI FOR DINNER There are so many wonderful independent delis in Norwich and Norfolk that it seems almost criminal to just walk by. If you really must, you can add some candles, but otherwise use Valentine’s Day as an excuse to enjoy delicious local food in the comfort of your own home! 4. QUIZ NIGHT AT YOUR LOCAL PUB Did you know there are over 5,000 registered public houses across Norfolk? There’s unlikely to be many pub quizzes on Valentine’s Day itself, but as a fellow unromantic this is probably unlikely to faze you. Unleash your competitive side and show your loved one just how much you love to win! Always guaranteed to bring out your most attractive side… Keep up to date with events in Norfolk in 2017, and join our new Facebook group: What’s On in Norfolk with Eastlife: www.facebook.com/groups/805222059608791

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WHY WE LOVE

HARLESTON With its Italianate clock tower overlooking the market place, interesting architecture and independent businesses, Harleston is a beautiful place to visit. Situated in the Waveney Valley, Harleston is an ancient town home to old coaching inns, a historic market and reputable local traders. Throughout the town you’ll discover independent and specialist shops and beautiful Georgian architecture. Harleston has a long history, and its narrow streets and alleys, and timber framed buildings are signs of its past. If you want to explore deeper into the town’s heritage make a visit to the Harleston museum. It is a compact, volunteer-run, museum full of artefacts relating to the life and times of the people of Harleston. More specifically these items illustrate; personal and domestic life, working life, costume, recreation, entertainment and the built environment of the town. The museum is free to visit and is open Wednesday and Saturday from May to the end of September.

WHAT’S ON IN 2017? Every year the town hosts a number of exciting events organised by Harleston Future. Here’s what’s on the line up for 2017:

To be part of Harleston’s history visit the weekly market held on a Wednesday. The town was granted charter status in 1259, and today continues to thrive with residents and locals from surrounding villages visiting the market on a weekly basis.

29 April, End of Spring Fair, 9.30am – 3.30pm Held on the Market Place the fair will feature stalls selling crafts and garden produce, plus there’ll be street entertainment and tasty offerings from food stalls.

Harleston’s excellent individual specialist shops include butchers, bakers, women’s wear, kitchenware, antiques and chocolate. You are spoilt for choice by the large selection of catering establishments covering from a quick coffee and cake or take away and gourmet dining.

3-4 June, Open Garden Weekend Hop aboard a vintage bus and travel from garden to garden. There will be 25 beautiful gardens to view across the weekend.

If you want to get the most from your visit stop by the Tourist Information Centre located on Exchange Street or browse the Harleston Information Plus website at www.harleston-norfolk.org.uk

18 June, Antique Fair and Rural Craft Street Market Over 80 stalls will make up this fun and fascinating fair. For more details on all events visit www.visitharleston.org.uk/home

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WHAT’S ON in Norfolk THEATRE, FILM AND SHOWS 31 Jan - 4 Feb The Witches of Eastwick In the sleepy New England town of Eastwick, three (not-so-wicked) witches Alexandra Spofford, Sukie Rougemont and Jane Smart are divorcees feeling trapped in their everyday humdrum lives. One stormy night, high on Martinis and brownies, they make a crazy wish - for a man to make their own. But their wish has consequences they could never have imagined...Norwich Theatre Royal, Theatre Street, Norwich, NR2 1RL. 01603 630000. www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk 1-4 Feb Goodnight Mr Tom, the Musical An adaptation of Michelle Magorian’s book, this musical version is touching and heart-warming, with original score and lyrics by Gary Carpenter. Maddermarket Theatre, St Johns Alley, Norwich, NR2 1DR. 01603 620917. www.maddermarket.co.uk 6-Feb Whitney Queen of the Night A stunning celebration of the music and life of one of the greatest singers of our time. Norwich Theatre Royal, Theatre Street, Norwich, NR2 1RL. 01603 630000. www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk 7-8 Feb Micky Flanagan Warm Up Show Micky is delighted to announce that he’s back on stage doing what he does best - stand up comedy. King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, Tuesday Market Place, King’s Lynn, PE30 1JW. 01553 764864. www.kingslynncornexchange.co.uk 7-Feb Stewart Lee Content Provider After four years writing and performing his TV show Stewart Lee’s Comedy Vehicle, ‘Content Provider’ is Stewart’s first brand new full-length show since the award-winning Carpet Remnant World. Norwich Theatre Royal, Theatre Street, Norwich, NR2 1RL. 01603 630000 www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk 9-Feb Nathan Carter - Wanna Dance UK Tour 2017 He is the hottest property on the Irish music scene, performing with his band to over 400,000 people in the past year, and now Nathan Carter is about to embark on a mini UK tour taking in ten dates throughout England. Princess Theatre, 13 The Green, Hunstanton, PE36 5AH. 01485 532252 www.princesshunstanton.co.uk 9-Feb Shazia Mirza – The Kardashians Made Me Do It Following an acclaimed Edinburgh Fringe run, Shazia Mirza takes her new show on tour. ‘The Kardashians Made Me Do It’ is a searing and urgent exploration of life, love and Jihadi brides. Norwich Arts Centre, St. Benedict’s Street, Norwich. NR2 4PG. 01603 660352 . norwichartscentre.co.uk 10-11 Feb Richard Alston Dance Company In Tangent, Martin Lawrance explores

the vivid accents and attack of Tango. Norwich Theatre Royal, Theatre Street, Norwich, NR2 1RL. 01603 630000 www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk 10-Feb Gavin Robertson: Bond An unauthorised parody in which Bond meets his greatest arch-villain yet - Ian Fleming himself! Westacre Theatre, River Road, Westacre, PE32 1UD. 01760 755800. www.westacretheatre.com 11-Feb Gavin Robertson: The Six Sided Man A psychiatrist lives his life according to the rolls of a dice, with the stakes getting ever higher. Westacre Theatre, River Road, Westacre, PE32 1UD. 01760 755800. www.westacretheatre.com 11-Feb The Sentence Snatchers Children’s Show Little Frank doesn’t like talking much, she’s scared of being laughed at, worried about getting it wrong, and very nervous about the butterflies who live in her stomach! Sheringham Little Theatre, 2 Station Road, Sheringham, NR26 8RE. 01263 822347. www.sheringhamlittletheatre.com 11-13 feb The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show Eric’s well-known books captivated readers with his iconic colourful hand-painted tissue paper collage illustrations and distinctively simple stories, introducing generations of children to a bigger, brighter world – and to their first experience of reading itself. Norwich Playhouse 42 - 58 St. George’s Street, Norwich, NR3 1AB. 01603 598598. www.norwichplayhouse.co.uk 11-Feb Seann Walsh: One for the Road You might have seen Seann on TV, but he’s something else live – pacing the stage, working the room and reducing crowds to hysterics. Norwich Playhouse, 42 - 58 St. George’s Street, Norwich, NR3 1AB. 01603 598598. www.norwichplayhouse.co.uk 13-Feb FILM: Bridget Jones’s Baby Breaking up with Mark Darcy (Firth) leaves the 40 year old Bridget Jones (Zellweger) single again. She decides to focus on her career as a top news producer and all goes well briefly until she is swept off her feet at a music festival by the dashing American Jack Qwant (Dempsey). Not long afterwards she finds herself pregnant and the question arises – “who’s the daddy?” It could be either. This is a feel-good film with entertaining social commentary and Zellweger back on form as Bridget. Screen-nextthe-Sea, Alderman Peel High School, Wells, NR23 1RB. 01328 710885. www.wells-cinema.com 15-Feb Border Control This politically charged play fuses multimedia and text to tackle issues of immigration and love in a post-brexit UK.

Norwich Arts Centre, St. Benedict’s Street, Norwich, NR2 4PG. 01603 660352. norwichartscentre.co.uk 16-Feb Jo Caulfield Sharp, witty and insightful, Jo will make you think as much as she makes you laugh. Norwich Arts Centre, St. Benedict’s Street, Norwich, NR2 4PG. 01603 660352. norwichartscentre.co.uk 16-Feb Jenny Éclair: How to be a Middle Aged Woman Eclair puts middle age under the microscope and decides whether to laugh, cry or buy a dachshund! Norwich Playhouse, 42 - 58 St. George’s Street, Norwich, NR3 1AB. 01603 598598. www.norwichplayhouse.co.uk 18-Feb Josie Long This is a show about optimism and hopefulness and about looking for people and things to look up to. Norwich Playhouse, 42 - 58 St. George’s Street, Norwich, NR3 1AB. 01603 598598. www.norwichplayhouse.co.uk 21-25 Feb Matthew Bourne’s The Red Shoes ‘The Red Shoes’ has seduced audiences and inspired generations of dancers with its tale of obsession, possession and one girl’s dream to be the greatest dancer in the world. Victoria Page lives to dance but her ambitions become a battleground between the two men who inspire her passion. Norwich Theatre Royal, Theatre Street, Norwich, NR2 1RL. 01603 630000. www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk 22-Feb James Acaster: Recognise Undercover cops. Jury duty. Witness protection. Comedy. All this and more as James Acaster brings his Trelogy of shows to Norwich Playhouse. Norwich Playhouse, 42 - 58 St. George’s Street, Norwich, NR3 1AB. 01603 598598. www.norwichplayhouse.co.uk 22-25 Feb The Ladykillers Based on the well-loved Ealing comedy, the play tells the tale of a sweet little old widow pitted against a gang of criminal misfits who will stop at nothing. Sheringham Little Theatre, 2 Station Road, Sheringham, NR26 8RE. 01263 822347. www.sheringhamlittletheatre.com 23-Feb Richard Gadd: Monkey See Monkey Do A stand-up routine that goes to the depths of who he is – and what it means to be a Man. Norwich Arts Centre, St. Benedict’s Street, Norwich, NR2 4PG. 01603 660352. norwichartscentre.co.uk 25-Feb Jon Richardson: Old Man Come and see what Jon Richardson can do with words when he has more than thirty seconds to work with. Or should that be “with which to work”? King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, Tuesday Market Place, King’s Lynn, PE30 1JW.

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Weddings & Parties. Equestrian. Shooting. Situated close to Burnham Market on the stunning Norfolk coast, the charming 18th Century Sussex Barn provides a unique blank canvas for your wedding or party. Home to the renowned Burnham Market International Horse Trials, the Estate also holds host to a traditional Family Run Shoot in an area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Blank canvas events. 18th Century Charm.

enquiries@sussexbarn.co.uk | sussexbarn.co.uk | 01485 210000

01553 764864. www.kingslynncornexchange.co.uk

28 Feb - 25 Mar MAMMA MIA! Set on a Greek island paradise, a story of love, friendship and identity is cleverly told through the timeless songs of ABBA. Norwich Theatre Royal, Theatre Street, Norwich, NR2 1RL. 01603 630000. www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk

17-Feb The Noise Next Door The Noise Next Door are causing a commotion with their fourth nationwide tour - an anarchic evening of side-splitting jokes, jaw-dropping characters, and mind-blowing songs. Norwich Playhouse, 42 - 58 St. George’s Street, Norwich, NR3 1AB. 01603 598598. www.norwichplayhouse.co.uk

28-Feb A Master of Impression Designed for small and intimate spaces the Sardovillian production aims to grant front row experiences where audiences get up close and personal with the company’s trademark performances that are highly physical, intellectually endearing and emotionally charged. King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, Tuesday Market Place, King’s Lynn, PE30 1JW. 01553 764864. www.kingslynncornexchange.co.uk MUSIC 3-Feb The Noise Next Door The Noise Next Door are causing a commotion with their fourth nationwide tour - an anarchic evening of side-splitting jokes, jaw-dropping characters, and mind-blowing songs. King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, Tuesday Market Place, King’s Lynn, PE30 1JW. 01553 764864. www.kingslynncornexchange.co.uk 7-Feb James McMurtry (with band) Texas singer, songwriter and guitarist. Drawing from his family’s storytelling tradition — he’s the son of novelist Larry McMurtry — he fuses wry, literate observations about the world with the snarl of barroom rock. Norwich Arts Centre, St. Benedict’s Street, Norwich, NR2 4PG 01603 660352. norwichartscentre.co.uk 9-Feb Smokie Smokie, after a prolonged period of world touring, are returning to Tour the UK to wow audiences. King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, Tuesday Market Place, King’s Lynn, PE30 1JW. 01553 764864. www.kingslynncornexchange.co.uk 10-Feb Some Guys Have All The Luck ‘Some Guys Have All The Luck’ is a fantastic theatrical production celebrating the career of one of rocks greatest icons, Rod Stewart – from street busker through to international superstar! King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, Tuesday Market Place, King’s Lynn, PE30 1JW. 01553 764864 www.kingslynncornexchange.co.uk 12-Feb Rumours of Fleetwood Mac With nearly five decades of legendary music to choose from, this is an opportunity for fans old and new to rediscover the songs and performances that have ensured Fleetwood Mac’s place as one of the most popular bands of all time. Norwich Theatre Royal, Theatre Street, Norwich, NR2 1RL. 01603 630000. www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk 13-18 Feb Thriller Live A visual, audio and electrifying journey through the magic of Michael’s 45 year musical history. Norwich Theatre Royal, Theatre Street, Norwich, NR2 1RL. 01603 630000. www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk 14-Feb The Classic Rock Show The critically acclaimed stage production ‘The Classic Rock Show’ returns to the UK in 2017 to deliver up its eagerly awaited new show, the ‘A-Z of Rock’. King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, Tuesday Market Place, King’s Lynn, PE30 1JW.

17-Feb Mount Hood Mount Hood are an alternative/indie-folk band hailing from Norwich, UK. Think Bon Iver mixed with Band of Horses and Ryan Adams…Norwich Arts Centre, St. Benedict’s Street, Norwich, NR2 4PG. 01603 660352. norwichartscentre.co.uk 17-Feb Barbara Dickson ‘In Good Company’ Barbara will perform a wonderful range of material drawing on her folk roots as well as performing globally known hits such as The Caravan Song, Another Suitcase in Another Hall plus lots more. Pure class. Princess Theatre, 13 The Green, Hunstanton, PE36 5AH. 01485 532252. www.princesshunstanton.co.uk 17-Feb You Win Again Immerse yourself into the brother’s hits through the 60s, 70s and 80s, topped off with a glittering array of iconic artists they wrote for, such as Diana Ross, Celine Dion & Dionne Warwick. King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, Tuesday Market Place, King’s Lynn, PE30 1JW. 01553 764864. www.kingslynncornexchange.co.uk 18-Feb The Sandinistas The Sandinistas are a heady young mix of Punk and New Wave Rock and Roll. Norwich Arts Centre, St. Benedict’s Street, Norwich, NR2 4PG. 01603 660352. norwichartscentre.co.uk 18-Feb The Elvis Years Celebrating 10 years on the road this year, The Elvis Years is an outstanding musical production which brings to the stage the incredible and compelling story of the ‘king of rock and roll’ - Elvis Presley. King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, Tuesday Market Place, King’s Lynn, PE30 1JW. 01553 764864. www.kingslynncornexchange.co.uk 19-Feb T.Rextasy This year T.rextasy are celebrating Marc’s life and works with a very special commemorative tour. Truly a rock ’n’ roll concert for all ages - If you would like to know exactly what a Marc Bolan concert was like in the 1970s, this show is for you! King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, Tuesday Market Place, King’s Lynn, PE30 1JW. 01553 764864. www.kingslynncornexchange.co.uk 27-Feb Broadside Ballads Three of the UK’s most innovative folk artists collaborate for the first time to reinvent a collection of British broadsides – low cost daily song sheets sold for pence – giving a rare insight into Britain’s music, literature and political history. Norwich Arts Centre, St. Benedict’s Street, Norwich, NR2 4PG. 01603 660352. norwichartscentre.co.uk ARTS & EXHIBITIONS 10 Oct 16 - 17 Feb 17 Fiji: Art & Life in the Pacific Last chance to see the largest and most comprehensive exhibition about Fiji ever assembled. It will take the visitor on a

journey through the art and cultural history of Fiji since the late 18th century. Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts, UEA Norwich, NR4 7TJ. scva.ac.uk 14 Jan - 8 Feb Modern British Artists Including works by Peter Blake, Sandra Blow, Barbara Rae, Bruce McLean, Terry Frost, John Hoyland and John Piper. With studio ceramics by Barry Stedman. Bircham Gallery, 14 Market Place, Holt NR25 6BW. www.birchamgallery.co.uk 30 Jan - 25 Feb Makers’ Month The Forum has joined forces with craft groups and creative businesses from across Norfolk, to put on a four week event offering free drop in activities, bookable workshops and textile based exhibitions. The Forum, Millennium Plain, Norwich, NR2 1TF. www.theforumnorwich.co.uk 7-Feb The War Photography of Olive Edis Join Norfolk Heritage Centre for a free Heritage Hour talk related to local and family history. This month’s talk explores The War Photography of Olive Edis. Vernon Castle Room, Millennium Plain, Norwich, NR2 1TF. www.theforumnorwich.co.uk SPECIAL EVENTS 3-5 Feb Deepdale Conservation Weekend Deepdale Conservation Weekend offers you the chance to stay for free in the Deepdale Backpackers Hostel or on the campsite, half board provided (bed, breakfast & evening meal), in exchange for two days work (10am to 3.30pm). Deepdale Backpackers & Camping Deepdale Farm, Burnham Deepdale, PE31 8DD. 01485 210256. www.deepdalebackpackers.co.uk/events 11-19 Feb Bug Week Join us for the ever-popular ‘Bug Week’, with lots of animals handling and handson activities, including prehistoric bug hunt and creepy crawly crafts. Dinosaur Adventure, Lenwade, Norwich, NR9 5JW 01603 876310. www.dinosauradventure.co.uk/events.php 11-12 Feb Two Day Bushcraft The course is an introduction to the basic fundamentals of Bushcraft with one of the specialist Bushcraft instructors. No previous experience required, just bring along a good sense of humour! The Canoe Man, 10 Norwich Road, Woxham, NR12 8RX. 0845 4969177. www.thecanoeman.com ANTIQUES AND AUCTIONS 4-5 Feb Norwich Antiques and Collectors Fair This is a compact and crowded fair, with vendors in a number of quality stalls with facilities and services aimed at making your visit a very smooth, interesting and enjoyable one. The quality is usually high and vendors tend to be knowledgeable about what they’re selling. Admission is only £1. 9am - 3.30pm. Norfolk Showground, Dereham Road, New Costessy, NR5 0TT. 01702 549623 19-Feb Blakeney Antique & Collectors Fair Maximum 24 Tables. Well attended throughout the year. Free parking. Open 10am-4pm. Admission £1. Blakeney Village Hall, Blakeney, NR25 7NQ. 01263 713120

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If you can’t catch the festivities, get your pancake fix at Olney Pancake Parlour, located on the Market Place!

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WHAT’S ON in Beds, Bucks & Herts THEATRE, FILM AND SHOWS 1-4 Feb Carousel In a Maine coastal village toward the end of the 19th century, the swaggering, carefree carnival barker, Billy Bigelow, captivates and marries the naive mill-worker, Julie Jordan. Billy loses his job just as he learns that Julie is pregnant and, desperately intent upon providing a decent life for his family, he is coerced into being an accomplice to a robbery. Watford Palace Theatre, 20 Clarendon Road, Watford, WD17 1JZ 01923 235455. www.watfordpalacetheatre.co.uk 5-Feb The Circus of Horrors The spectacular features an amazing amalgamation of bizarre, brave & beautiful acts all woven into a Alice in Horrorland type story driven by a mainly original soundscape & performed with a forked tongue firmly in each cheek! Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road, Watford, WD17 3JN. 0845 0753993 www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk 6-Feb Arsenal Legends Three Arsenal legends grace the stage at the Watford Colosseum to talk about their brilliant careers at Arsenal. Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road, Watford, WD17 3JN. 0845 0753993 www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk 6-8 Feb Dong Ding Murder Me On ‘Dong Ding Murder Me On High!’ introduces Inspector Pratt when he was just Sergeant Pratt as he attempts to discover why the daughter of Sir Walton Gates has nearly been sleighed to death. talking Scarlet are proud to present the world premiere of the fourth instalment of the Pratt trilogy by Peter Gordon and this time it’s Seasonal The Gordon Craig Theatre, Lytton Way, Stevenage, SG1 1LZ. 01438 363200. www.gordon-craig.co.uk 7-11 Feb The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time Christopher, 15 years old, has an extraordinary brain – exceptional at maths while ill-equipped to interpret everyday life. He has never ventured alone beyond the end of his road, he detests being touched and he distrusts strangers. When he falls under the suspicion of killing Mrs Shears’ dog, it takes him on a journey that upturns his world. Aylesbury Waterside Theatre, Exchange Street, Aylesbury, HP20 1UG. 0844 871 7607. www.atgtickets.com 7-8 Feb Ben & Holly’s Little Kingdom Join Ben & Holly, and their friends on this exciting, enchanting and magical musical adventure packed full of games, songs and laughter. Milton Keynes Theatre, Marlborough Gate, Milton Keynes, MK9 3NZ. 0844 8717652. www.atgtickets.com 7-9 Feb Mojo Silver Johnny is a rising rock‘n’roll star. Until he disappears, and Ezra is murdered. The men of the Atlanticstrug-

gle through the following day; in fear of their culture, their lives, and each other. Quarry Theatre, 26 St Peter’s Street, Bedford, MK40 2NN. 01234 362337 www.quarrytheatre.org.uk 8-Feb Ross Noble - Brain Dump Famed for his super quick freewheeling style and highly imaginative flights of fancy, a Ross Noble show is always an unmissable event. Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road, Watford, WD17 3JN 0845 0753993. www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk 10-Feb Burton Burton vividly presents the life of the great Welsh actor in his own words from humble beginnings to Hollywood mega-stardom. The Place Theatre, Bradgate Road, Bedford, MK40 3DE. 01234 354321 www.theplacebedford.org 10-12 Feb Room On The Broom Join the Witch and her cat on their mission to defeat the dragon in Tall Stories’magical, musical adaptation of the classic picture book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler. Hertford Theatre, The Wash, Hertford, SG14 1PS. 01992 531500. www.hertfordtheatre.com 11-Feb Lucy Porter A hilarious new show of heart-felt personal revelations and incisive cultural observations from stand-up Lucy Porter. The Stables, Stockwell Lane, Milton Keynes, MK17 8LU. 01908 280800 www.stables.org 11-Feb Cue Tease Burlesque Starring burlesque powerhouses Bettsie Bon Bon and Violet Blaze, the show also features ballet by Briar Rogue, plus thrilling knife-throwing by the iconic “Cabaret Cowgirl” Ayesha H. Rhodes Theatre, 1-3 South Road, Bishop’s Stortford, CM23 3JG. 01279 710200 www.rhodesbishopsstortford.org.uk 11-Feb Sue Perkins LIVE! in Spectacles Join Sue for an evening full of sparkling wit, tall tales and a user’s guide to Mary Berry. Milton Keynes Theatre, Marlborough Gate, Milton Keynes, MK9 3NZ. 0844 8717652. www.atgtickets.com 12-Feb Woolf Works The pioneering literary work of Virginia Woolf is the inspiration for multiaward-winning choreographer Wayne McGregor’s brilliant triptych for The Royal Ballet. Watford Palace Theatre, 20 Clarendon Road, Watford, WD17 1JZ. 01923 235455. www.watfordpalacetheatre.co.uk 14-Feb Dementia Friendly Movie Club This is the launch of a new monthly film club designed for those living with memory impairment. Besides engaging the brain and stimulating emotions, being part of an audience enjoying a film in the beautiful purpose built cinema helps people with dementia to reconnect

with happy memories and allow them to continue to enrich their lives. There is no charge to attend the screening but spaces are limited and must be booked. Signature Bentley House, Hertford, SG13 8EG. 01992 536668. 14-18 Feb Good Dog Set during the early noughties, Good Dog chronicles growing up in a multi-cultural community, and the everyday injustices that drive people to take back control, because even the most patient among us can’t wait forever. Watford Palace Theatre, 20 Clarendon Road, Watford, WD17 1JZ. 01923 235455 www.watfordpalacetheatre.co.uk 17-Feb Cirque Enchantment This concert style cirque production features stunning choreography, breath-taking vocals and mesmerising circus performers. Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road, Watford, WD17 3JN. 0845 0753993. www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk 17-Feb Love Letters During the week of St Valentines Day, White Cobra Productions brings one of the most romantic plays to the stage. ‘Love Letters’ tells of a lifelong relationship between two Americans during the mid 20th Century. The Place Theatre, Bradgate Road, Bedford, MK40 3DE 01234 354321. www.theplacebedford.org 18-Feb Andy Zaltzman: Plan Z In a show encompassing national identity, hope, fear and live action democracy, Andy addresses diverse issues such as the past, the present, the future, body sur. The Stables, Stockwell Lane, Milton Keynes, MK17 8LU. 01908 280800. www.stables.org 18-Feb The Close-Up Show An intimate evening of close-up magic, trickery and sleight of hand with 3 magicians. Hertford Theatre, The Wash, Hertford, SG14 1PS. 01992 531500. www.hertfordtheatre.com 20-25 Feb La Strada The story of wide-eyed Gelsomina, who is sold by her penniless mother to Zampano, a travelling sideshow strongman, unfolds as they journey through the Italian countryside performing for their keep. Milton Keynes Theatre, Marlborough Gate, Milton Keynes, MK9 3NZ. 0844 8717652. www.atgtickets.com 20-25 Feb Dreamboats and Petticoats Inspired by the 7 smash hit multi-million selling albums of the same name, the West End sell out sensation ‘Dreamboats and Petticoats’ features some of the greatest hit songs of the rock‘n’roll era. Aylesbury Waterside Theatre, Exchange Street, Aylesbury, HP20 1UG. 0844 871 7607. www.atgtickets.com 22-Feb The Poshest Gig of All Time The brilliance of Hal Cruttenden,

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combined with the class of Dominic Holland, along with the supreme culture of Simon Evans and the utterly debonair Andrew Watts. The Court Theatre, Station Road, Tring, HP23 5QY. www.courttheatre.co.uk 23-Feb From Ibiza to the Norfolk Broads Adrian Berry’s acclaimed sell-out production tells the tale of a young David Bowie obsessive. Martin is a boy with problems - an illness no one understands and a head full of sound and vision. Hertford Theatre, The Wash, Hertford, SG14 1PS 01992 531500. www.hertfordtheatre.com 23-Feb Sean McLoughlin Sean McLoughlin (the misanthrope’s misanthrope) has been hitting the self-destruction button his whole life and might just have the experience to get us all through this fog. The Stables, Stockwell Lane, Milton Keynes, MK17 8LU. 01908 280800. www.stables.org 24-Feb Rory Bremner – Partly Political Britain’s best-known satirical impressionist is back! With Trump, Boris and Brexit fresh in the memory, Rory’s on a mission to make sense (and nonsense) of it all. Rhodes Theatre, 1-3 South Road, Bishop’s Stortford, CM23 3JG. 01279 710200. www.rhodesbishopsstortford.org.uk 28 Feb - 4 Mar Funny Girl ‘Funny Girl’ brought global fame to Barbra Streisand 50 years ago, boasting some of the most iconic songs in film and theatre history, including People and Don’t Rain On My Parade. Milton Keynes Theatre, Marlborough Gate, Milton Keynes, MK9 3NZ. 0844 8717652. www.atgtickets.com MUSIC 3-Feb Vampires Rock Ghost Train Along with Steve Steinman, is a full cast of superb singers, dancers and a formidable band blast their way through some of the greatest ever classic rock anthems including We Will Rock You, Bat Out of Hell, Sweet Child Of Mine and many more! The Gordon Craig Theatre, Lytton Way, Stevenage, SG1 1LZ. 01438 363200. www.gordon-craig.co.uk 10-Feb Creeds Cross A stunningly exciting evening, capturing the origins of The Celtic Journey as it spread across the world. Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road, Watford, WD17 3JN. 0845 0753993 www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk 10-Feb Nathan Carter And His Band Nathan Carter is one of the biggest names on the Irish music scene and is fast becoming a big name all over the UK with his fine performances. The Gordon Craig Theatre, Lytton Way, Stevenage, SG1 1LZ. 01438 363200 www.gordon-craig.co.uk 10-Feb Ashton Lane Ashton Lane are part of the new wave of home-grown modern country music originating in the UK. The Stables, Stockwell Lane, Milton Keynes, MK17 8LU. 01908 280800. www.stables.org 12-Feb Forever in Blue Jeans A perfect feast of entertainment with superb singers, dancers and musicians playing the best in country music and rock‘n’roll. The Stables, Stockwell Lane, Milton Keynes, MK17 8LU. 01908 280800 www.stables.org 12-Feb European Union Chamber

Orchestra The European Union Chamber Orchestra have established themselves as one of the most outstanding chamber ensembles in Europe currently. Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road, Watford, WD17 3JN. 0845 0753993 www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk 12-Feb Stand By Me ‘Stand By Me’ is the phenomenal musical history of a group that helped to define Atlantic Records, inspired early rock and roll and was a forerunner to both the black music movement in 1950’s America and even early Motown. Aylesbury Waterside Theatre, Exchange Street, Aylesbury, HP20 1UG. 0844 871 7607 www.atgtickets.com 15-Feb The Little Mix Experience With breathtaking dance moves, replica costumes and some of the finest vocals in the UK, this is a high-energy show from beginning to end, packed with all of Little Mix’s greatest hits and suitable for all ages! The Gordon Craig Theatre, Lytton Way, Stevenage, SG1 1LZ. 01438 363200. www.gordon-craig.co.uk 15-Feb Limehouse Lizzy Limehouse Lizzy continue to keep the spirit of Celtic rock icon Philip Lynott and his band Thin Lizzy alive, well and dominating stages worldwide. The band have also added a tribute into their show to ex-Thin Lizzy guitarist (and world renowned solo artist) Gary Moore. The Stables, Stockwell Lane Milton Keynes, MK17 8LU. 01908 280800. www.stables.org 18-Feb The Illegal Eagles Often acclaimed as the World’s Official No.1 Eagles tribute, The Illegal Eagles return to the stage in 2017, this time celebrating their own incredible 20 years of UK & international touring! Aylesbury Waterside Theatre, Exchange Street, Aylesbury, HP20 1UG. 0844 871 7607. www.atgtickets.com 22-Feb Live Midweek Music – Bill Cornell & The Golden Era Jazz Band Relax on a Wednesday evening at Rhodes while listening to local legend Bill Cornell and his ever-exuberant Golden Era Jazz Band. Free Entry. Rhodes Theatre, 1-3 South Road, Bishop’s Stortford, CM23 3JG. 01279 710200 www.rhodesbishopsstortford.org.uk 25-Feb Tenors UnLimited Tenors UnLimited embark on their 10th anniversary tour with a beautiful evening of classical crossover melodies and stunning vocal harmony. The Stables, Stockwell Lane, Milton Keynes, MK17 8LU. 01908 280800. www.stables.org 26-Feb Kimmie Rhodes Singersongwriter Kimmie Rhodes is a native Texan. A creative and prolific artist, she has recorded and released a total of sixteen solo CDs. The Stables, Stockwell Lane, Milton Keynes, MK17 8LU. 01908 280800. www.stables.org 27-Feb Flying Machines ‘Flying Machines’ play emotive and dramatic music, drawing upon influences as diverse as jazz, pop, progressive rock and metal to create an utterly and modern sound. Quarry Theatre, 26 St Peter’s Street, Bedford, MK40 2NN. 01234 362337. www.quarrytheatre.org.uk ARTS & EXHIBITIONS 31 Jan - 26 Feb Yellow and Blue

Niranjan Kamatkar is an established filmmaker and artist who delivers art projects and services that profile the culture, identities and issues for marginalized communities. In showing his unique work he looks to meet and establish dialogues with new and experienced local artists. The Gallery at Hertford Theatre, The Wash, Hertford SG14 1PS, 01992 531500. www.hertfordtheatre.com 6-23 Feb Through a Window The Eagle Gallery artists take on a theme. Works exhibited will be under the theme ‘Through a Window’. The Eagle Gallery, 101 Castle Road, Bedford, MK40 3QP. 01234 346995. www.eaglegalleryartists.co.uk 17 Feb - 2 Jul Life on Dead Street: Hitchin’s Victorian Families With this new exhibition, experience what it was like to live in the poorest part of Hitchin during the 1800s. See, hear and smell the terrible conditions in which families lived on Dead Street, Hitchin. Learn from the pupils themselves how the Hitchin British School provided a vital opportunity to escape a lifetime of poverty. British Schools Museum, 41-42 Queen St, Hitchin, SG4 9TS. 01462 420144. www.britishschoolsmuseum.co.uk 25 Feb - 4 Mar Sue Room One Week Show Sue Room takes charge of the Eagle Gallery for one week only with a display of her work. The Eagle Gallery, 101 Castle Road, Bedford, MK40 3QP. 01234 346995. www.eaglegalleryartists.co.uk 28 Feb - 26 Mar Rachel McCullock This local artist employs a range of materials, including household paints to conjure very striking large-scale and colourful abstract ‘action’ type paintings. The Gallery at Hertford Theatre, The Wash, Hertford, SG14 1PS. 01992 531500. www.hertfordtheatre.com SPECIAL EVENTS 15-Feb Dancing for Fun Enjoy Maypole Dancing and English Country Dancing for children aged 6+. Cost £3 per child to include light refreshments. British Schools Museum, 41-42 Queen St, Hitchin, SG4 9TS. 01462 420144. www.britishschoolsmuseum.co.uk 18-Feb Hidden Hertford Walks Why not take a leisurely stroll to work up an appetite on a Sunday morning? All walks begin at 11am. Booking is essential. 18 Bull Plain, Hertford, SG14 1DT 26-Feb The Cambridge Glass Fair at Knebworth A leading specialist fair with around 70 exhibitors selling fine quality antique and collectable glass including contemporary artists showing their own work. Knebworth House, Stevenage, SG1 2AX. www.cambridgeglassfair.com ANTIQUES AND AUCTIONS 12-Feb The Little Hadham Antiques Fair An established fair of quality antiques. Little Hadham Village Hall, SG11 2BP 15-Feb Hertford Toy and Train Collectors’ Evening Toyfair The bi-monthly event welcoming old and new faces to buy, sell, swap or obtain valuations on your old traditional toys including cars, buses and trains, some lorries and farm related items. Richard Hale School, Hale Road, Hertford, SG13 8EN

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CAMBRIDGE

CAMBRIDGESHIRE

THE

SCENE Written by Tracey Dean

With Valentine’s Day just around the corner this month’s column takes a look at what the beautiful city of Cambridge has to offer to ensure your Valentine’s Day is a day to remember. If you’re looking for a romantic date idea to treat that special someone a Valentine’s punting tour may just be the answer. This private tour along the River Cam run by Scudamore’s (www.scudamores.com) will allow you to see the charming College Backs with your loved one whilst you keep warm with the hot water bottles and cosy blankets provided. The tour lasts for thirty minutes and also includes your very own tour guide and a romantic long stemmed rose. If your relationship status is single this Valentine’s Day that doesn’t mean you have to stay in. The cocktail bar Hidden Rooms in Jesus Lane plays host to a Valentine’s Speed Dating event. Book a place on www.speeddater.co.uk and spend the evening chatting

with up to 15 dates for a chance to find your Mr or Mrs Right on the most romantic night of the year. If a flower bouquet is more what you have in mind Cambridge Floral Designs (www.cambridgeﬂoralde signs.co.uk) have a beautiful selection of valentines flowers including a single red rose and a bouquet of luxury red roses. They also stock the Vera Wang Collection of premium flowers presented in an exquisite gift box. For an indulgent Valentine’s gift Cellini (www.cellini.co.uk) an independent jewellers based in Rose Crescent stock a large range of jewellery including gold, silver, diamonds, and coloured stones from around the world. The company holds one of the largest selection of pearls in the UK and also have an in house team of designers creating the perfect pieces whether it’s for a special valentine’s gift or a surprise proposal.

Read more from Tracey at www.traceydean.co.uk or follow her on Twitter @TraceyDeanBlog

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Located just off the A14, six miles from Huntingdon and 12 miles from Cambridge on the banks of the river Great Ouse, St Ives is a wonderful Cambridgeshire town. If you’re looking to pass an afternoon and pay the town a visit, make sure these activities are on your agenda… SHOPPING St Ives shopping centre has a good mix of independent traders and national retailers. The original character is retained with regular markets held every Monday and Friday, with Bank Holiday markets being very popular. On the first and third Saturdays of each month an excellent Farmer’s Market takes place. HERITAGE A focal point is the splendid 15th Century Bridge and chapel over the river and is one of only three such surviving bridges in England. If you’re feeling particularly adventurous, the Ouse Washes Landscape is only a short distance away. Explore the vast river network by hiring a boat from St Ives or come face to face with amazing wildlife at nearby RSPB Fen Drayton Lakes and RSPB Ouse Fen.

HOLT ISLAND If you’re a keen wildlife photographer, love walking or simply fancy enjoying some of Cambridgeshire’s stunning landscape visit Holt Island; a seven-acre reserve surrounded by the river Ouse. Here you’ll find the remnants of the once worked Osier Beds, native tree species and beds of phragmites reed mixed with sedge. THE GUIDED BUSWAY Make a day out of your trip and combine a visit to St Ives with Cambridge. The Guided Busway runs through pretty countryside and provides quick and frequent access to the centre of Cambridge from St Ives. ELECTRIC RIVERBOAT TRIPS When the weather warms up hop aboard a boat cruise from The Quay. Discover the heritage of the town as you make the journey up to Hemingford Lock. Cruises are available hourly on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays & Mondays from May to September. www.electricriverboat.co.uk

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WHAT’S ON in Cambridgeshire THEATRE, FILM AND SHOWS 31 Jan - 4 Feb Stuart: A Life Backwards Stuart is an alcoholic, drug-addicted, violence-loving, ‘chaotic homeless’. Alexander is a middle-class Cambridge graduate and volunteer at the local homeless shelter who decides to write Stuart’s biography. As their friendship blossoms, Alexander peels back the layers of a troubled past and discovers just as much about his own along the way. Corpus Playroom, 10 St Edward’s Passage, Cambridge, CB2 3PJ. 01223 300085. www.corpusplayroom.com 31 Jan - 4 Feb The House of Bernarda Alba Spain’s greatest playwright’s poetic and brutal tale of domestic tyranny and rebellion, played out by an entirely female cast of characters ADC Theatre, Park Street, Cambridge, CB5 8AS. 01223 359547. www.adctheatre.com 7-11 Feb London Road ‘London Road’ documents the experiences of its residents, as the police and the media flocked to their front doors, grappling with what it means to be at the epicentre of a tragedy. ADC Theatre, Park Street, Cambridge CB5 8AS. 01223 359547. www.adctheatre.com 7-11 Feb How to Lie and Get Away With It When Elliott graduated, his dream was to make the world a better place. After a year as an unpaid intern at Amnesia UK, his only dream is being able to actually afford lunch. Now the only thing standing between Elliott and an actual paid job is one fundraising concert. How hard can it be? Corpus Playroom, 10 St Edward’s Passage, Cambridge, CB2 3PJ. 01223 300085. www.corpusplayroom.com 8-11 Feb Unravelling the Ribbon ‘Unravelling the Ribbon’ is a light-hearted, touching play about three Irish women whose lives are impacted by breast cancer. The characters interact, separate and come together in a moving tale of love and survival. ADC Theatre, Park Street, Cambridge, CB5 8AS. 01223 359547. www.adctheatre.com 8-Feb Woolf Works ‘Woolf Works’ expresses the heart of an artistic life driven to discover a freer, uniquely modern realism, and brings to life Woolf’s world of ‘granite and rainbow’, where human beings are at once both physical body and uncontained essence. Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF. 01733 207239 www.vivacity-peterborough.com 8-11 Feb Edward II Edward II lives in the shadow of his father, who conquered Wales and waged war to annex Scotland. But can Edward follow his father’s legacy? Cambridge Arts Theatre, St Edward’s Passage, Cambridge, CB2 3PJ. 01223 503333 www.cambridgeartstheatre.com

8-Feb Josie Long: Something Better This is a show about optimism and hopefulness and about looking for people and things to look up to. The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge, CB1 7GX 01223 511511. www.junction.co.uk 9-Feb Season Launch What’s on from the team and short performances including walkabouts from Neon Moon, followed by live music in J2 from Paolo Angeli & Derek Gripper (additional ticket required). The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge, CB1 7GX. 01223 511511. www.junction.co.uk 11-Feb Andy Zaltzman: Plan Z In a show encompassing national identity, hope, fear and live action democracy, he addresses diverse issues such as the past, the present, the future, body surfing and the unending volcano of confused fury that is modern global politics. Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF, 01733 207239. www.vivacity-peterborough.com 12-Feb The Sorcherer’s Apprentice Charlie Hubble is a little boy with a very big dream, he wants to be a world-class magician. So, he saves up his pocket money to buy The Big Book of Magic for Trainee Magicians. The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge, CB1 7GX 01223 511511. www.junction.co.uk 13-18 Feb Gaslight One of the greatest thrillers of all-time comes to Cambridge, starring the highly acclaimed stage and television actress Kara Tointon. Patrick Hamilton’s Gaslight is a masterpiece of suspenseful playwriting that will have you on the edge of your seat. Cambridge Arts Theatre, St Edward’s Passage, Cambridge, CB2 3PJ. 01223 503333. www.cambridgeartstheatre.com 14-15 Feb The Empty Nester’s Club Vicky will share her story of empty bedrooms, fresher’s flu, boyfriends, long goodbyes, motorway service stations and trips to Ikea; and how she fought back to be the woman she is today, exhausted! Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF. 01733 207239 www.vivacity-peterborough.com 14-18 Feb A Fool to his Folly ‘A Fool to his Folly’ is a play that explores immortality, fiction and the power people can hold over others. Corpus Playroom, 10 St Edward’s Passage, Cambridge, CB2 3PJ. 01223 300085. www.corpusplayroom.com 15-18 Feb Band Set in 2016, it follows a day in the life of a five new graduate millennials who have boomeranged back to their parent’s houses in the Hampshire village of Micheldever. They are pursuing careers in East London – and preferably Dalston. ADC Theatre, Park Street, Cambridge

CB5 8AS. 01223 359547. www.adctheatre.com 15-Feb Spillikin Pipeline Theatre’s story of a woman with Alzheimers living with a robot companion is not only a deeply touching exploration of love, but it stars an amazing state-ofthe-art robot as a full cast member. The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge, CB1 7GX. 01223 511511. www.junction.co.uk 16-Feb Saint Joan Bernard Shaw’s classic play follows the life and trial of a young country girl who declares a bloody mission to drive the English from France. As one of the first Protestants and nationalists, she threatens the very fabric of the feudal society and the Catholic Church across Europe. Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF. 01733 207239. www.vivacity-peterborough.com 18-Feb The Vanishing Man Hugo Cedar was an Edwardian magician known as ‘The Vanishing Man’; he created the perfect trick and then disappeared forever, but his story lives on…The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge, CB1 7GX. 01223 511511. www.junction.co.uk 18-Feb Richard Gadd: Monkey See Monkey Do Richard Gadd brings one of the most memorable, genre-busting performances in years with the undoubted hit show of the 2016 Edinburgh Festival Fringe. A stand-up routine that goes to the depths of who he is – and what it means to be a Man. The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge, CB1 7GX. 01223 511511 www.junction.co.uk 21-Feb Jimmy Carr: The Best Of, Ultimate, Gold, Greatest Hits Tour A selection of his very best jokes along with brand new material for the ultimate comedy show. The Cresset, Bretton Centre, Peterborough, PE3 8DX, 01733 265705. www.cresset.co.uk 21-25 Feb A Taste of Honey Exploring controversial topics at the time, Delaney mixes all sorts of social issues into quirky, fantastic characters that work their way through the poverty and marginalisation of 1950s Manchester. Unusual and fascinating, this play is a real treat. Corpus Playroom, 10 St Edward’s Passage, Cambridge, CB2 3PJ. 01223 300085. www.corpusplayroom.com 22-25 Feb Henceforward With the help of a deranged android childminder, Jerome hatches a cunning plan to retrieve his source of artistic inspiration, his beloved daughter Geain, from her mother, his hostile estranged ex-wife. Cambridge Arts Theatre, St Edward’s Passage, Cambridge, CB2 3PJ. 01223 503333. www.cambridgeartstheatre.com

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22-24 Feb Salome This production will employ violent and abstract lighting effects, an electronic soundtrack, and a formulaic movement style influenced by the classical theatre of China. ADC Theatre, Park Street, Cambridge, CB5 8AS. 01223 359547 www.adctheatre.com 22-Feb From Ibiza to Norfolk Broads Martin is a boy with problems - an illness no-one understands and a head full of sound and vision. So when an unexpected gift arrives on his birthday, Martin embarks on a thrilling journey in the footsteps of his obsession, leading him to discover some long-hidden truths about himself. What follows will change his life forever...Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF. 01733 207239 . www.vivacity-peterborough.com 22-23 Feb Home Exploring a new and unknown world, ‘Home’ immerses audiences with Profound and Multiple Learning Disabilities (PMLD) in a multi-sensory story of discovery. Home is the latest bold and exciting production from Frozen Light. The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge, CB1 7GX. 01223 511511. www.junction.co.uk 22-23 Feb Monstersaurus This energetic show full of thrills, spills, magic and mayhem will delight the whole family – with original music and plenty of audience participation! Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF. 01733 207239. www.vivacity-peterborough.com 24-Feb Richard Herring - The Best A great introduction to this influential cult comedian for the newcomer and a welcome greatest hits for long term fans. The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge, CB1 7GX. 01223 511511. www.junction. co.uk 25-Feb The Colour of Me Come and experience the beautiful rainbow of emotions that lives inside each and every one of us. What colour are you today? Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF. 01733 207239 www.vivacity-peterborough.com 26-Feb Michael Portillo Politician, social commentator and TV documentary maker, controversial former MP for Kensington and Chelsea, Michael Portillo returns to the Arts Theatre for one night only. Cambridge Arts Theatre, St Edward’s Passage, Cambridge, CB2 3PJ. 01223 503333. www.cambridgeartstheatre.com 27-28 Feb Hamlet A company of seasoned classical actors embrace the brutality of the greatest play ever written. Mumford Theatre, East Road, Cambridge, CB1 1PT. 0845 196 2320. www.anglia.ac.uk 28-Feb The Sleeping Beauty Throughout, Pyotr Il’yich Tchaikovsky’s masterful score takes ballet music to a height of passion, sophistication and intensity that arguably has never been surpassed. Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF. 01733 207239. www.vivacity-peterborough.com MUSIC 5-Feb Jim Moray Absent were the familiar affectations of those who sought to preserve an invented historical aesthetic, Jim Moray was a Bowie and Blur fan singing ballads with

all of his influences unfurled. The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge, CB1 7GX. 01223 511511. www.junction.co.uk 6-Feb Natty Natty appears at Cambridge Junction accompanied by his superb band The Rebelship. The Junction, Clifton Way Cambridge, CB1 7GX. 01223 511511. www.junction.co.uk 10-Feb The Fiver Fiver provides an opportunity for local bands to gain their first experience of the professional music industry, with professional mentoring and advice from the Cambridge Junction team. The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge, CB1 7GX 01223 511511. www.junction.co.uk 10-Feb Barry Steele as Roy Orbison in ‘The Orbison Story’ This specially revamped musical journey in time from the early sun years right through to the late 80s and also includes a special tribute to the time Roy Spent with The Traveling Wilburys, & Bono. The Cresset. Bretton Centre, Peterborough, PE3 8DX, 01733 265705. www.cresset.co.uk 14-Feb Narvik Fusing live folk music and new writing to create a patchwork of memory and dream, ‘Narvik’ is a bold new play set during the Second World War that brings to life a powerful story of love, guilt, heroism and betrayal. Mumford Theatre, East Road, Cambridge, CB1 1PT. 0845 196 2320. www.anglia.ac.uk 24-25 Feb Macca; The Paul McCartney Story Reuniting the cast of the Hit West End musical, ‘Let it Be’ and starring Emanuelle Angeletti as Paul McCartney, this is a celebration of the life and music of a legend. The show includes all of McCartney’s solo hits, along with a selection of Beatles favourites and a recreation of ‘Wings In Concert’. Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF. 01733 207239. www.vivacity-peterborough.com 24-Feb Viva Neil Diamond To celebrate the icon’s 50 year recording career the UK’s very own ‘voice of Neil’ Bob Drury (‘The Neil Diamond Story’) takes to the road with ‘Viva Neil Diamond’, a brand new one-man stage show simply bursting with Neil Diamond gems! Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF. 01733 207239. www.vivacity-peterborough.com 26-Feb Fairport Convention Enjoy an evening of musical celebration with Fairport Convention at thisgolden anniversary concert. Credited with originating British folk-rock, Fairport first took to the stage in1967’s summer of love. The Cresset, Bretton Centre, Peterborough, PE3 8DX. 01733 265705. www.cresset.co.uk 28-Feb Cara Dillon If you don’t know the voice of Cara Dillon, you’re in for a treat. If you are already amongst her legions of admirers around the world, you know you have something special in store. The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge, CB1 7GX. 01223 511511. www.junction.co.uk ARTS & EXHIBITIONS 23 Jan - 25 Feb Cupid Is In Town Jewellery will be the focus this month, with beautiful work by newcomers Rachel Butlin, Carla Edwards, Rhi Frankton and

Emily Kidson, alongside our established Jewellers Marisa Arna, Jonathan Deer, Tom Pigeon, Tamsin Francesca, Sara Lois, Claire Lowe, Sarah Packington, Tracey Birchwood and Lawrence Gibson. VK Gallery, 18a Bridge Street, St Ives, PE27 5EG. 01480 498130. www.vkgallery.co.uk 26 Jan - 19 Feb Works on Paper Print Exhibition 2017 Ceramic, jewellery, original print, print and sculpture. Byard Art, 14 King’s Parade, Cambridge, CB2 1SJ. 01223 464646 www.byardart.co.uk 8-Feb Queer British Art 1861 – 1967 An exhibition with Dr Clare Barlow, Assistant Curator at the Tate Britain. The Fitzwilliam Museum, Trumpington Street, Cambridge, CB2 1RB. 01223 332900. www.fitzmuseum.cam.ac.uk 11 Feb - 5 Mar Richard Spare and Robert Greenhalf Cambridge Contemporary Art, 6 Trinity St, Cambridge, CB2 1SU. 01223 324222. www.cambridgegallery.co.uk 22-Feb Mission to China With reference to the ‘Wedgwood’ vases in the Fitzwilliam Museum With Nixi Cura, Honorary Research Fellow at the University of Glasgow and co-founder of the Arts of China Consortium. The Fitzwilliam Museum, Trumpington Street, Cambridge, CB2 1RB. 01223 332900. www.fitzmuseum.cam.ac.uk SPECIAL EVENTS 9 Jan - 28 Feb Snowdrops at Anglesey Abbey Early in the New Year the gardens are transformed into a ‘Sea of White’ as thousands of snowdrops announce the arrival of spring. Anglesey Abbey, Quy Road, Lode, CB25 9EJ. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/anglesey-abbey-gardens-and-lode-mill 4-Feb Saint’s Crafters Craft Fair Popular craft fair held every month selling high quality and some unusual homemade arts & crafts, with free entry. Free Church, Market Hill, St Ives, PE27 5AL 10-15 Feb Festival of Light The theme for the next e-Luminate Cambridge Festival has been announced as ‘Play of Light’, a theme which enhances the Festival’s uniquely interactive, fun and playful nature. Various Venues, Cambridge. www.e-luminatefestivals.co.uk ANTIQUES AND AUCTIONS 4-Feb The Curiosity Fair Twenty stalls with a mixture of vintage antiques crafts and collectables in the David Raynor building at this busy garden centre. Entry £1. Scotsdales Garden Centre, 120 Cambridge Road, Gt Shelford CB22 5JT. 07803 167982 11-12 Feb Holmewood Hall Antiques, Collectors Stallholders will fill the rooms with a wide and exciting variety of items to suit most tastes & budgets. 9.30am-4pm. Entry £3. Holmewood Hall, Holme, PE7 3BZ. 07772 349431 18-19 Feb St Ives Antiques Fair 55 specialist dealers. Free parking and on-site catering. Open 10am-4pm, entry £2. The Burgess Hall (One Leisure) Westwood Road, St Ives, PE27 6WU

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SALES

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Shopping in... Forget shopping malls and high street department stores, the small market town of Great Dunmow in Essex has established itself as one of the region’s leading independent shopping destinations. As more and more of us buck the trend of fast fashion and adding to the pockets of big-brand retailers, this Essex town has been working hard for years to promote shopping locally. Recently finishing in the top five of a small towns national competition, the High Street is a collective of independent businesses – think cute homeware stores, stylish boutiques, salons and cosy coffee shops. The businesses are run by local residents so first-class service is high on the agenda, here you’ll enjoy a warm welcome and personal service. Perhaps one of the best things about stepping away from big brand names is discovering little treasures. Browsing the stores, you’re bound to fall in love with items from unknown designers and craftsman.

Nikki Anthony, owner at the Wardrobe and Vice Chair Great Dunmow Town Team says: “You’ll find different brands to what you’ll discover on the High Street; there’s an amazing haberdashery shop which is a joy to explore, plus a wine shop that will take you round the world. These are just a few of the shops on offer. “We have a great community spirit among local businesses thanks to the Great Dunmow Town Team which was formed over four years ago. We work together to bring people into the town with our ‘Shop Local Campaign’, our Parking Scheme Initiative and different events that are held in the town.” And she couldn’t be more right, December saw one of the most successful Christmas Light Switch Ons to date and included an ice rink, fairground rides and food stalls – big offerings for a little town! This year there’s talks of introducing a Farmer’s Market by the summer which will give local producers a platform to sell their home grown products – just watch this space!

Mark Seton Photography

Keep up to date with what’s happening by visiting www.visitgreatdunmow.co.uk

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For a small town Saffron Walden packs a punch in the shopping stakes. Whether you’re looking to give your wardrobe a spring overhaul, redecorate the home or simply want to mull over a cup of coffee and watch the world go by, make sure a trip to this charming historic town is on your to do list this month. WHERE TO SHOP If you have a love of all things fashion, then you’ll adore Saffron Walden’s independent boutique scene. Dotted throughout the town are stylish stores housing high-end designers and relatively unknown brands. Stop by Ruby Rooms for the latest fashions or Blue for timeless classic style staples. If it’s home décor or a special present you need visit Talents; a small store filled with quirky items and gift ideas, while the Corner Cupboard is great for fine jewellery and stylish home furnishings. Among the cobbled streets and crooked buildings, you’ll also find independent wine shops, a pet store, interior designers and gourmet food shops. A market has been held since 1141, and is worth browsing on Tuesdays and Saturdays.

PUT YOUR FEET UP After all that shopping you’ll need to rest your tired soles and where better than in one of Saffron Walden’s cosy coffee shops and cafes. On almost every corner there’s a place to pop in for cup of tea and cake. From the busy Courtyard which has outdoor seating for summer months, Café Cou Cou and Tea Amo, there’s something for everyone’s taste and budget. The newest addition to the café scene is Connie’s Pantry. Having opened at the end of last year, the eatery has established itself as the go to place for a cup of tea and slice of cake. Homemade cakes, pastries, soups, jams and chutneys are all on the menu. The quaint stylish décor and warm welcome make it the perfect place to escape the harsh cold February weather. For those with a sweet tooth, you’ll be pleased to know Saffron Walden now boasts its very own chocolate shop, Hill Street. Chocolate aromas fill the air and you can watch the chocolatiers rustle up their next sweet treat. We hear their hot chocolate is not to be missed! With new openings comes the sad news that Beales has officially closed down. Once housed in one of the main buildings on the market square the doors have closed on the longstanding department store. However, there are plans to redevelop the site with exciting new businesses so just watch this space!

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WHAT’S ON in Essex THEATRE, FILM AND SHOWS 31 Jan - 5 Feb Lord of the Dance:Dangerous Games ‘Dangerous Games’ continues to thrill audiences around the globe with its intoxicating mix of dance and music that fuses the traditional with the contemporary in a classic tale that showcases the exceptional talent of the cast. Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS0 7RA. 01702 351135 www.southendtheatres.org.uk 4-Feb Elf Lyons Elf mixes her vulnerabilities, her niche geeky interests and her sassy nature to create fun, action-packed quests for her and the audience, exploring modern political and feminist issues - often resulting in a huge fun mess on stage. Palace Theatre, 430 London Road, Westcliff-on-Sea, SS0 9LA. 01702 351135. www.southendtheatres.org.uk 5-Feb Swan Lake A ballet of ultimate beauty, and a score of unparalleled perfection, born at the Bolshoi in 1877. Cramphorn, Duke Street, Chelmsford, CM1 1JG. 01245 606505. www.chelmsford.gov.uk 7-8 Feb Hysteria 1938. Hampstead, London. Sigmund Freud has fled Nazi-occupied Austria and settled in leafy Swiss Cottage. The ageing Freud intends to spend his last days in peaceful contemplation, but when Salvador Dali pays a visit, and discovers a naked woman in the closet, intoxicating mayhem ensues. Civic Theatre, Duke Street, Chelmsford, CM1 1JG. 01245 606505 www.chelmsford.gov.uk 7-Feb Jimmy Carr A man who has devoted his life to crafting perfect jokes and has left a trail of laughter in his wake, Jimmy Carr’s new tour will distil everything we love to laugh at and be shocked by, into one incredible, unparalleled night of entertainment. Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS0 7RA. 01702 351135. www.southendtheatres.org.uk 7-10 Feb Rob Beckett Mouth of the South 2017 Beckett’s back with a brand-new hour of funnies and he’s taking on the big issues like Kit Kats and flatbread! Palace Theatre, 430 London Road, Westcliff-onSea, SS0 9LA. 01702 351135. www.southendtheatres.org.uk 7-Feb An Evening with Des O’Conner One of the UK’s greatest ever performers, in his brand-new show celebrating his career in showbiz. A unique and unforgettable evening of music, laughter and iconic moments of Television Gold! Queen’s Theatre, Billet Lane, Hornchurch, RM11 1QT. 01708 443333 www.queens-theatre.co.uk

8-Feb Broadway and Beyond An uplifting celebration of the best of musical theatre presented by eight versatile West End professionals. Queen’s Theatre, Billet Lane, Hornchurch RM11 1QT. 01708 443333. www.queens-theatre.co.uk

‘We’re Going On A Bear Hunt’ is brought vividly and noisily to the stage in director Sally Cookson’s fun-filled adaptation set to Benji Bower’s versatile lively score. Palace Theatre, 430 London Road, Westcliff-on-Sea, SS0 9LA. 01702 351135. www.southendtheatres.org.uk

9-11 Feb Showstopper! A brand new musical comedy is created from scratch at each performance of this award-winning show as audience suggestions are transformed on-the-spot into an all-singing, all-dancing production with unpredictable and hilarious results. Mercury Theatre, Balkerne Gate, Colchester, CO1 1PT. 01206 573948. www.mercurytheatre.co.uk

15-Feb #Haters A stab, a tweet and a social media storm rip through East London on the hottest summer on record. Two young heroes, worlds apart, gravitate towards each other against the will of the world. Will they meet? A new drama inspired by real events. ‘#Haters’ explores the changing face of our city. Queen’s Theatre, Billet Lane, Hornchurch, RM11 1QT. 01708 443333. www.queens-theatre.co.uk

10-Feb Stephen K Amos Over the last twelve months, Stephen has performed his unique brand of feel-good comedy across the world. And what did he find when he travelled? People. People like you and me and some of them said the most ridiculous things - to his face! The Harlow Playhouse, Playhouse Square, Harlow, CM20 1LS 01279 431945. www.playhouseharlow.com 11-Feb The Vanishing Man The award-winning Simon Evans and David Aula create a time-hopping, misdirection-abusing, mind-bending examination of what really happens when a man, in full sight of his audience, simply ceases to exist. The Harlow Playhouse, Playhouse Square, Harlow CM20 1LS. 01279 431945 www.playhouseharlow.com 11-Feb Big Girls Don’t Cry This great feel good show features four phenomenal singers and a fantastic live band recreating the iconic sound of Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons. Braintree Arts Theatre, Notley Road, Braintree, CM7 1WY. 01376 556 354 www.braintreeartstheatre.com 11-Feb Brendan Cole A brand new show for 2017, Brendan hosts another spectacular production featuring his guest dancers, a new leading lady and a 14 piece band and singers live on stage. Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS0 7RA. 01702 351135. www.southendtheatres.org.uk 12-Feb Jonathan Pie Jonathan Pie is a respected News reporter for a respected News broadcaster but he has a problem. He has several problems. He hates his job. He hates his colleagues. But mainly he hates the News. Palace Theatre, 430 London Road, Westcliff-on-Sea, SS0 9LA. 01702 351135. www.southendtheatres.org.uk 15-17 Feb We’re Going On A Bear Hunt Michael Rosen’s award-winning book

16-18 Feb Oliver Meet again those famous characters Fagin, The Artful Dodger, Nancy, Bill Sykes and, of course, Oliver Twist as they reprise such iconic songs. West Cliff Theatre, Tower Road, Clacton-on-Sea CO15 1LE. 01255 43 33 44 www.westcliffclacton.co.uk 17-Feb Shakespears Longest First Play Acclaimed stars of the West End, the Reduced Shakespeare Company, are back with another irreverent and breathtakingly hilarious celebration of our cultural heritage – as seen through the eyes of three Americans wearing trainers. Mercury Theatre, Balkerne Gate Colchester, CO1 1PT. 01206 573948 www.mercurytheatre.co.uk 17-Feb So Comedy Live On The Road The producers of the Graham Norton Show bring you their pick of the very best names on the UK stand-up comedy circuit today. Palace Theatre, 430 London Road, Westcliff-on-Sea, SS0 9LA. 01702 351135. www.southendtheatres.org.uk 18-Feb Seriously Dead From the Producers of Dirty Dusting, this brand new comedy will have audience dying with laughter, as it follows the exploits of Betty, Albert, Billy, local undertaker Tristan, and Thelma, a disgruntled Angel! The Harlow Playhouse, Playhouse Square, Harlow, CM20 1LS. 01279 431945. www.playhouseharlow.com 20-Feb Sally Morgan - Call Me Psychic Funny, entertaining, sometimes heart breaking, often controversial; the show celebrates her 8th year on the road. Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS0 7RA. 01702 351135 www.southendtheatres.org.uk 21-Feb Frankenstein A brand new adaptation of Mary Shelley’s Gothic horror masterpiece fusing ensemble storytelling, live music, puppetry and stunning theatricality. Civic Theatre, Duke Street, Chelmsford,

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CM1 1JG. 01245 606505 www.chelmsford.gov.uk 22-Feb Sue Perkins LIVE! in SPECTACLES Join Sue for an evening full of sparkling wit, tall tales and a user’s guide to Mary Berry. Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS0 7RA. 01702 351135 www.southendtheatres.org.uk 23-Feb Sean Lock - Keep It Light Every three years the comedian Sean Lock writes and tours a new stand-up show. Well he’s only gone and done it again! What’s he like? Come and see what he’s blithering on about this time. Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS0 7RA. 01702 351135 www.southendtheatres.org.uk 24 Feb - 11 Mar Bang, Bang John Cleese collaborates with the Mercury Theatre Colchester to bring this rarely performed comedy classic to the stage, directed by veteran of theatre, television and radio, Nicky Henson. Mercury Theatre, Balkerne Gate, Colchester, CO1 1PT. 01206 573948 www.mercurytheatre.co.uk 25-Feb Shunted Again! Veteran train traveller and highly experienced stand-up comedian Steve Gribbin rails against the current state of Britain’s Railway system. Braintree Arts Theatre, Notley Road, Braintree, CM7 1WY. 01376 556 354. www.braintreeartstheatre.com 28 Feb - 4 Mar 4:48 Psychosis Sarah Kane’s exploration of psychosis is a fragmented tirade of frustration, fear and resignation. Kane’s last play, it’s an example of In Yer Face Theatre that has no defined characters or setting, little discernible plot and context. The Old Court Theatre, Springfield Road, Chelmsford. 01245 606505. www.chelmsford.gov.uk MUSIC 6-Feb Busted plus special guests Natives James, Matt and Charlie first broke onto the music scene in 2002. Within just two years the three-piece had become the biggest band in the country, with four number one singles, two triple platinum albums, a total of five million records sold, and over 750,000 ticket sales including a record-breaking run of thirteen Wembley Arena shows. Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS0 7RA. 01702 351135. www.southendtheatres.org.uk 6-Feb The Adele Songbook The outstanding Katie Markham presents an immaculate celebration of one of our generation’s finest singer-songwriters. This enthralling concert faithfully recreates the magic of Adele‘s three record-breaking albums and includes all your favourite hits. Queen’s Theatre, Billet Lane, Hornchurch, RM11 1QT. 01708 443333. www.queens-theatre.co.uk 7-Feb Swinging at the Cotton Club Take a step back into 1920s and 1930s New York City and through the doors of Harlem’s hottest nightclub, the Cotton Club! Mercury Theatre, Balkerne Gate, Colchester, CO1 1PT. 01206 573948. www.mercurytheatre.co.uk 9-Feb The Glenn Miller Orchestra Ray McVay presents the world’s greatest Big Band Show featuring the fabulous harmonies of the Moonlight Serenaders,

the sublime vocals of Catherine Sykes and Mark Porter as well as the energetic and exciting Swing Time Jivers. Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS0 7RA. 01702 351135. www.southendtheatres.org.uk 11-Feb Jackson Live in Concert ‘Jackson Live in Concert’ sees long-time fan and hugely talented Ben recreate the Michael Jackson experience with his stunning rendition of all his favourite songs. Palace Theatre, 430 London Road, Westcliff-on-Sea, SS0 9LA. 01702 351135. www.southendtheatres.org.uk 10-Feb Frank Sinatra - The Movie Years Award winning singer Robert Habermann returns to the Cramphorn Studio. Cramphorn, Duke Street, Chelmsford, CM1 1JG. 01245 606505. www.chelmsford.gov.uk 11-Feb On Tour with Elvis Ground breaking rock’n’roll hits, movie songs, million selling number one’s, the 1968 Comeback Special including the famous ‘black leather sit-down’ section, and of course the very best performances from Elvis’ Las Vegas and touring years. West Cliff Theatre, Tower Road, Clacton-on-Sea, CO15 1LE. 01255 433344. www.westcliffclacton.co.uk 13-Feb The Little Mix Experience This is a high-energy show from beginning to end, packed with all of Little Mix’s greatest hits and suitable for all ages! Mercury Theatre, Balkerne Gate, Colchester, CO1 1PT. 01206 573948. www.mercurytheatre.co.uk 14-Feb King for a Day Atila is an established Jazz singer from the UK. Sartorially stylish and musically classy, his interpretations of the American Songbook are internationally renowned, taking influence from early Nat King Cole & Frank Sinatra. Palace Theatre, 430 London Road, Westcliff-on-Sea, SS0 9LA. 01702 351135. www.southendtheatres.org.uk 18-Feb Back to Bacharach ‘Back to Bacharach’ celebrates the magical music of Burt Bacharach, one of the most accomplished popular composers of the 20th Century, who together with Hal David penned some of the most memorable and iconic hits that stand the test of time. Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS0 7RA. 01702 351135. www.southendtheatres.org.uk 19-Feb The King Is Back Internationally renowned as one of the Best Elvis Tributes in the world, Ben Portsmouth will bring his style and charisma to Southend and will show why he is regarded as the best in the business. Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS0 7RA. 01702 351135. www.southendtheatres.org.uk 19-Feb Barbara Dickson Barbara will perform a wonderful range of material drawing on her folk roots as well as performing globally known hits such as The Caravan Song, Another Suitcase in Another Hall plus lots more. West Cliff Theatre, Tower Road, Clactonon-Sea, CO15 1LE. 01255 433344. www.westcliffclacton.co.uk

Civic Theatre, Duke Street, Chelmsford, CM1 1JG. 01245 606505. www.chelmsford.gov.uk 24-Feb Mercury Mercury have firmly established themselves as one of the world’s most authentic tributes to Queen. Princes Theatre, Station Road, Clacton-on-Sea, CO15 1SE. 01255 686633 www.tendringdc. gov.uk › Leisure › Princes Theatre 25-Feb Rumours Of Fleetwood Mac Rumours Of Fleetwood Mac concert performances – guarantees to offer its audiences a rich and emotive musical experience, blowing away the cobwebs and rekindling those precious personal memories in a way that only the best music can. Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS0 7RA. 01702 351135 www.southendtheatres.org.uk ARTS & EXHIBITIONS 12 Jan - 19 Feb Crossing Boundaries Paintings by Jane Lewis - oil to water and back again and Ceramics by Caroline Fish - lively gestural painted earthenware. The Gallery, Parndon Mill, Harlow, CM20 2HP. 01279 426042. www.parndonmill.co.uk 4-5 Feb The Print Project Gain an insight into the techniques behind Gee Vaucher’s work and create a beautiful riot of shape and colour. Firstsite, Lewis Gardens, Colchester, CO1 1JH. 01206 577 067. www.firstsite.uk.net SPECIAL EVENTS 7-Feb Heritage Talks - The Maldon District Coalminers This talk will reveal the events and stories leading up to the departure of many labourers and their families from the Maldon District and with the help of the 1881 census, where they headed, in what numbers, and their new careers. The census also shows how many stuck with the new life and how many returned to Essex to take up their old agricultural lives. The Quaker Hall, Butt Lane, Maldon, CM9 5HD. 01621 854477 10-Feb Valentines at the Castle Learn about some of the naughtier objects in the collections with the Curators and work with an artist to make your own “love monkey” for yourself or as a special present. Colchester Castle Museum, Castle Park, Colchester, CO1 1TJ. 01206 282939 16-Feb Jazz at the Saffron A monthly live jazz event with different artists each time. Saffron Hotel, 8 - 12 High Street, Saffron Walden, CB10 1AZ ANTIQUES AND AUCTIONS 12-Feb Essex Antiques, Vintage Retro and Collectors Fair With the foyer and main auditorium chock-a-block full of goodies from diamond jewellery to furniture and vintage through to down-right ancient, it’s paradise for anyone hunting out a bargain or furnishing their home. 9.30am - 4.30pm. Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS0 7RA. 01702 351135. 4-Feb Antiques Fairs at Theydon Bois Village Hall, Coppice Row, Theydon Bois, Epping, CM16 7ER. 07780 971214.

23-Feb Macca - The Concert Celebrating the music of Paul McCartney

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BESPOKE STONE QUALITY STONE SURFACES

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PROPERTY

SCHEMES FOR SECOND STEPPERS

Selling your first home and moving up the property ladder can be a daunting process, and as property prices continue to rise it can sometimes feel out of reach. Thankfully there is help at hand. Crest Nicholson Eastern’s Sales and Marketing Director, Annette Cole, gives her advice on schemes available to those purchasing a new home, and what you may not know as a ‘second-stepper’: “‘Help to Buy’ is a Government backed initiative that supports those looking to purchase a brand new home. Buyers can apply for equity loans of up to 20% of the cost of their new build home, and will not be charged interest on the loan for the first five years after purchase. “What people often do not realise is that the Help to Buy equity loan is open to all new homebuyers, not just first time buyers. We have plenty of people purchasing homes across our developments using the Help to Buy scheme who are ‘second steppers’

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– home owners purchasing their next home, usually to gain extra space. “We have a huge range of homes available on the Help to Buy scheme at our developments across South East England.” Crest Nicholson recently launched Elsenham Vale, a development in the charming village of Elsenham, Essex, which has a range of homes for all type of buyers, from two bedroom cottages to five-bedroom family homes. This development is an example of a collection of homes available to second steppers on the Help to Buy scheme. Homes are still available at Elsenham Vale, with prices starting from £324,000. Further details at www.crestnicholson.com/developments/elsenham-vale

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