Eastlife February 2019 by Thompson Media Partners Ltd

eastlife www.eastlife.co.uk

Living life in the East February 2019

BILLY OCEAN with special guest - Heather Small Burghley House - 8th June

Get was to a em

Time to move?

So, –w bac see can

It’s bot age

But to h invo did

And in y

So, tha

Not The less spe

And was all d frie

One and two bedroom bungalows built exclusively for the over 55s with prices from £180,995 Call us now for this months Special Offer. The Croft at Baston Mayfield Gardens (off Chesham Drive), Baston, Lincolnshire PE6 9QW Telephone 07917 761020 Sales office open: Saturday to Tuesday 10am – 5pm Email: thecroftatbaston@larkfleethomes.co.uk

www.larkfleethomes.co.uk

And mu ope It is mo

ADVERTORIAL

We should have moved years ago

ow many times have you finally got around to doing something you have been dreading - only to decide you should have done it years ago?

Getting my parents to move to the The Croft in Baston wasn’t easy. Although they could see the logic of moving to a smaller home nearer to their children, it was an emotional wrench to leave the old family home. So, we spent months debating the ‘pros and cons’ – while I was clocking up hundreds of miles going backwards and forwards. And although the kids loved seeing their grandparents, car journeys with youngsters can be a bit of a nightmare. It’s not that Mum and Dad need looking after. They are both fit and well. My father is still working, well past the age at which many people retire. But increasingly when we visited, we were being asked to help with tasks around the house – especially jobs involving ladders such as clearing the gutters that Mum didn’t want Dad doing any more. And we could all see that this was only going to increase in years to come. So, eventually, they moved. And they are having such fun that Mum now says they should have moved years ago! Not only that, they made money as a result of moving. They sold the old house for a good price and spent much less than that on their new one. Now they’ve started spending the profit – a new car and a winter cruise. And I think the pressure on Dad to retire is less than it was. Mum was often lonely in the old house on her own all day. Now in just a few weeks she has made many new friends – there is a real sense of community at The Croft. And the community is growing – although not too much. The second phase of The Croft at Baston has just opened, offering a small number of new homes. It is extending the community but keeping it at a modest scale.

The whole development is designed to provide over55s with the independence of owning their own homes, combined with the benefits of being part of a community. The properties are mostly one and two-bedroom bungalows located around attractive walkways and gardens. All of them have been designed to need minimal ongoing maintenance – so Dad doesn’t need to go up ladders any more! Because my parents bought one of the larger bungalows, there is somewhere for the children to stay when they visit – which gives us a weekend off. And because they are just a few minutes away, life is easier all round. Baston itself is well located, just alongside the A15. And, if my parents don’t fancy driving, the frequent bus service provides easy links to Peterborough and the market town of Bourne. Not that they seem to feel any need to travel. Baston itself has a number of shops and two excellent pubs with restaurants. So, it was a good move. And, yes, they should have done it long ago!

The A-Class. Just like you.

The all-new Mercedes-Benz A-Class features an interior that redeﬁnes the concept of modern luxury in the compact class. Demonstrated by MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) the touch-screen control, an innovative voice control system and augmented reality navigation revolutionises the way drivers can interact with the A-Class as your car learns who you are and intuitively updates your preferences.

Representative example

As standard, the 7.0-inch dual wide-screen cockpit displays driver related information to the instrument cluster along with navigation and entertainment information to the touch-screen to allow for a more immersive driving experience.

Total amount payable††

£29,935.45

Option to purchase fee

£10

A 180d SE 48 monthly payments of*(Term of agreement)

£269

On-the-road price

£26,025

Customer deposit

£4,440.73

Retailer deposit contribution

£1,807.73

Optional ﬁnal payment

£10,225

Total amount of credit

£19,776.55

†

Representative APR

5.7%

Fixed interest rate

5.5%

Official government fuel consumption figures in mpg (litres per 100km) for the A-Class Hatchback combined 33.6(8.4)-61.4(4.6). CO2 emissions* from 169-107 g/km.

The indicated values were determined according to the prescribed measurement method – Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure (WLTP). Figures shown may include options which are not available in the UK. *CO2 figures have been converted into NEDC-equivalent values for use with the current VED and BIK tax legislation. Figures shown are for comparability purposes; only compare with other cars tested to the same technical procedures. Figures may not reflect real life driving results, which will depend upon a number of factors including the starting charge of the battery, factory fitted options, accessories fitted (post registration), variations in weather, driving styles and vehicle load. Further information about the test used to establish fuel consumption and CO2 figures can be found at www.mercedes-benz.co.uk/WLTP * *Please refer to WLTP Figures Spreadsheet for relevant figures. 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 Mercedes-Benz A 180d SE at £26,025 on-the-road (on-the-road price includes VAT, delivery, 12 months’ Road Fund Licence, number plates, fist 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 an A 180 d SE 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 A-Class models, between 1 January and 31 March 2019, registered by 30 June 2019. 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.

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

Mercedes-Benz of Norwich 01603 980800 Mercedes-Benz of Peterborough 01733 294900 www.baronsgroup.co.uk/mercedes-benz

PUBLISHER - Sean Thompson sean@eastlife.co.uk - 01954 267696

EDITOR - Emma Kemsley emma@eastlife.co.uk - 01954 267904

PRODUCTION MANAGER/ GRAPHIC DESIGNER - Paul Balaam paul@eastlife.co.uk - 01954 268142

SOCIAL MEDIA - Nicole Ranaweera nicole@eastlife.co.uk - 07921 235539

WEB DEVELOPER - Craig Lewis craig@eastlife.co.uk

ACCOUNTS / ENQUIRIES accounts@eastlife.co.uk - 01954 268129

SALES ENQUIRIES

editor

From the

Dear Reader, Love is in the air this month! As the most romantic day of the year approaches, we’ve come up with ways to fall head over heels in love with our beautiful corner of the UK. Escape reality and book a weekend break, staying at some of the best accommodation in the region, discover Suffolk’s secret history or spoil the one you love with a romantic gesture such as a day out or dinner date at one of the most stylish restaurants in the East.

Darren Marshall - 01954 267088 Stewart Hedges - 01954 267164 Jim Leishman - 01954 267635

If you’re a fan of the arts, we take a sneak peek at the spring/summer theatre season, plus there’s 10 great ideas to keep children entertained during the half term.

HEAD OFFICE

February is the month of our wedding special. If you’re newly engaged, you’ll find plenty of inspiration for planning your big day, including this year’s must-have dress designs and venues that will make you feel like royalty!

Unit 4, Avenue Business Park, Elsworth, Cambridge, CB23 4EY

Special thanks to our contributors Gerla De Boer, Dolly Osborne, Sue Cooke, Katrina Otter, Collette Hoefkens, Wendy Howes, Ruth Essex, Mike Garside, Kate Garside, Victoria Magnall, Ruby Reed, Karen Rhodes, Matt Dicks, Shelley Beth, Liz Mattock 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.

As the season changes we’d love to see your pictures from around the region. Tag us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram and use #eastlife. Have a wonderful month

Emma Kemsley

Find us on online: /eastlifemag

On the

@eastlifemag

@eastmagazines www.eastlife.co.uk

front cover: Upcoming event: Billy Ocean plus special guest Heather Small at Burghley House on 8 June 2019. Book tickets at www.livepromotionsconcerts. co.uk/billy-ocean-burgh ley-tickets

DOWNLOAD OUR APP FOR EASTLIFE ON THE GO Available on the Google Play and Apple App Stores. Just search “eastlife”

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On all orders placed before 31st December 2018

9-11 AROUND THE REGION

A round-up of monthly news and events

14-15 DATE NIGHT

10 great ideas for Valentine’s Day

17-19 TRAVEL GUIDE Plan your 2019 staycation

22-23 ON THE STAGE

Spring/summer theatre previews

29-35 EDUCATION Spring open days

37-39 DOG-FRIENDLY

Tails About Town and basic behaviour training

41-43 LITTLE EAST

Mum’s the Word & half term events

45-49 FOOD & DRINK

News, the Cambridge Foodie and Valentine’s wine 51-53 HEALTH Quieten your mind with hypnosis

55-57 FASHION

Find your style & the evolution of shopping malls

59-71 WEDDINGS

Discover the latest trends, inspiration and more

Contents

February 2019

77-85 INTERIORS

Home improvements and gardens

87-89 ARTS

Monthly column and the latest news

90-97 CAMBRIDGESHIRE

The Cambridge Scene and a guide to St Ives

98-103 ESSEX

The best shopping locations in the county

105-111 SUFFOLK

A visitor’s guide to Beccles & Bungay

113-125 NORFOLK

Secret Norfolk, Harleston and the best pubs on the Broads

127-129 BEDS, BUCKS & HERTS Find out what’s on: events, film, music and more

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Come and meet our experts. Come and join us at our FREE Hospital Open Events. Considering cosmetic surgery?

A guide to hip and knee surgery.

Considering ear pinning or nose reshaping?

A guide to thyroid disorders.

Thursday 28th February 2019 at 6.30pm with Mr Venkat Ramakrishnan, Consultant Plastic Surgeon.

Thursday 28th February 2019 at 6.30pm with Mr Paul Chatrath, Consultant ENT Surgeon.

Do you have back pain? Considering spinal surgery?

Wednesday 6th March 2019 at 6.30pm with Mr Raghu Ram Vindlacheruvu, Consultant Neurosurgeon & Mr Mahesh R Akula, Consultant Orthopaedic Spinal Surgeon.

Spaces are limited, call 01277 886 706 or visit nuffieldhealth.com/book

9408-832 Brentwood event ad_Eastlife magazine_240x168mm_portrait.indd 1

Thursday 7th March 2019 at 6.30pm with Mr Matthew Hearth, Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon.

Wednesday 13th March 2019 at 6.30pm with Mr Taleb Jeddy, Consultant General Surgeon.

Worried about varicose veins?

Thursday 21st March 2019 at 6.30pm with Mr Vijay Gadhvi, Consultant General & Vascular Surgeon.

Everyone is welcome, so tell your friends and family.

Nuffield Health Brentwood Hospital Shenfield Road, Brentwood, Essex, CM15 8EH

08/01/2019 16:35

Eastlife Diary

Around

the region

Dr Michael Mosley comes to Chelmsford 7 February, 7.30pm Dr Michael Mosley, the man behind the iconic 5:2 diet is embarking on his first ever UK theatre tour and will bring his ‘Trust Fast Health’ to Chelmsford’s Civic Theatre. This informative and entertaining live show will see Dr Michael Mosley explode common health myths and offer fascinating insights into the workings of the human body. www.chelmsford.gov.uk/theatres

The Gingerbread Man 27 and 28 February and 2 March It’s fun for all the family as Stuff and Nonsense Theatre Company’s new production of ‘The Gingerbread Man’ comes to Theatre Royal Bury St Edmunds. Expect a brilliant mix of puppetry, live action, specially composed music, humour and stunning staging in this exciting and pacey retelling of a well-loved classic tale. www.theatreroyal.org/shows/the-

Voodoo Rooms, Marina Theatre, Lowestoft, Suffolk 16 February, 7.30pm Be part of an incredible homage, to three legends in music, Jimi Hendrix, Eric Clapton and Cream, in this explosive new production. Packed with incredible high energy and performed by some of the UK’s finest musicians. This powerhouse performance will transport you back in time to the original concerts, delivering the true spirit of these legendary superstars. Tickets priced £22. www.marinatheatre.co.uk

A Bumper Family History Open Day, Long Shop Museum, Leiston, IP16 4ES Saturday 23 February, 11am to 4pm A variety of exhibits will be on show, including local graveyard surveys, war memorials, directories, old maps of the area and much more. Leiston Grammar School sports team photographs from 1933 to 1968 will also be available. Visitors are welcome to bring along old photographs to discuss with experts. Free entrance, but donations welcome. www.aldevalleyfamilyhistorygroup.onesuffolk.net

Men United In Song kicks off with introduction sessions. John Mansfield Campus, Peterborough 27 and 28 February and 2 March New Year, new you? Looking for a fresh challenge, new skills and a great social scene to boot? Then look no further…join Men United in Song, and help raise money for Prostate Cancer UK. Absolutely no previous experience is required to join, just a willingness to get involved and give it your best shot! Launching in March, the project will sign up 40 local men with a range of previous singing experience (including none) to rehearse over 10 weeks for a charity concert at the Cresset Theatre on Saturday 11 May. Call 01733 425194 or email menunited@peterboroughsings.org.uk

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Around the region Billy Ocean takes to the stage at Burghley House this summer The annual music concert returns to Burghley House this June with performances from international singer Billy Ocean. Billy had a string of international pop hits in the 1970s and 1980s. He was one of the most popular British R&B singersongwriters of the early to mid-1980s. He will be supported on stage by the Voice of ‘M People’ Heather Small. As part of ‘M People’ Heather enjoyed hits such as, ‘Moving On up’, ‘One Night in Heaven’ and ‘Search for the Hero’.

Bag It, Bring It, Boost It It’s the time of year where we want a fresh start, and nothing feels better than a spring clean, but don’t throw away your unwanted clothes and items, donate to East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH), which has revealed it takes over 6,000 bags of donations a week to run its shops. As a result, the charity has launched its ‘Bag It, Bring It, Boost It’ campaign for 2019. EACH has 35 shops across Cambridgeshire, north Essex, Norfolk and Suffolk that last year generated an impressive profit of over £1.1 million. However funds can only be raised with a regular flow of donations, so once again it has continued running its successful ‘Bag It, Bring It, Boost It’ campaign this year. Ian Nicolson, EACH Head of Retail & Trading advised the charity is currently in need of homewares, menswear and toys. EACH can help provide themed collection bags, posters and flyers. It can also arrange collections for any companies, schools or just large groups that want to participate. For more information visit www.each.org.uk

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The concert will take place on 8 June, with tickets now on sale from £39.50. Burghley House have previously hosted top artistes such as Bryan Ferry, Status Quo, UB40 and Jools Holland. To purchase tickets visit www.livepromotionsconcerts.co.uk

Makeover for The Angel Hotel in Bury St Edmunds The Angel Hotel, Bury St Edmunds, has closed the door to its ground floors, including the reception, bar, brasserie, restaurant and lounge, for the first time in over 50 years as it begins an extensive £750,000 refurbishment. Robert Gough, owner of Gough Hotels said: “The Angel plays a big part in the history of Bury St Edmunds, it’s iconic. But we did think it was time for a little bit of a face lift. Our plans for the refurbishment draw inspiration from the past, with a small nod to Charles Dickens, who mentioned The Angel in The Pickwick Papers (he stayed in this very building too!)” The extensive refurbishment begun on 9 January with plans to relaunch in spring this year. During this time, the hotel will be offering a breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner service in a temporary location in the building, and rooms will be available as normal – there’s promotional rates for this period too! www.theangel.co.uk

What’s on at Slepe Hall Hotel, Cambs The small but welcoming Slepe Hall Hotel in St Ives, Cambridgeshire, has a feast of offers this spring. Warm up at the Ramesey’s Brasserie, which offers extensive mouth-watering, affordable dishes ranging from the ultimate Sunday Carvery (£12.95) and British weekday favourites; Monday Pie, Wednesday Curry nights (£9.95). Forthcoming specials include the Valentine’s aphrodisiac inspired three-course menu at £29 per person from 14-16 February. Before it sells out book your Mother’s Day lunch or afternoon tea with local Truly Romantic Singer. If you’re newly engaged, the hotel’s Brunel

Suite could be the perfect spot for your wedding day. It’s ideal for large ceremonies hosting up to 250 guests, while smaller function rooms can be hired for more intimate celebrations. The hotel features 16 en-suite bedrooms, a welcoming bar, family restaurant, function rooms and terrace, all of which provide an ideal combination for relaxing, celebrating or conducting business. www.slepehallhotel.co.uk

Down Hall Hotel announces new summer concerts For the first time this June, Live at Down Hall, will take over the grounds of the hotel with a weekend of live music from Jools Holland and James Morrison. Located on the Essex/Hertfordshire border, the hotel will host two evenings of music with talented pianist Jools Hooland and his Rhythm & Blues Orchestra taking to the stage on Saturday 15 June, while Brit awardwinning singer-songwriter James Morrison will entertain crowds on 16 June. Special guest acts on 15 June will include famed English drummer Gilson Lavis and boogie-woogie queens Ruby Turner and Louise Marshall. An additional guest act will be announced soon. There are a number of ticket options available for the weekend from general admission to Ultimate VIP. Guests can even enjoy a picnic on the hotel grounds with a glass of Champagne with a Picnic Experience ticket. General admission tickets start from £75. For more details visit www.liveatdownhall.co.uk/tickets photo by Mary McCartney

Step into spring at Benington Lordship Gardens The historic ruins of Benington Lordship Gardens in Stevenage, Hertfordshire, is home to a stunning display of naturalised snowdrops, offering the perfect opportunity for a spring walk, from 6 February to 3 March, 12-4pm. The walled garden will showcase an impressive collection of 200 snowdrop varieties, among beautiful views of the parkland and lakeside. The location is ideal for getting some fresh air while admiring the change of season. Finish with a trip to the café and warm up with homemade soup, tea and cake. Free parking. Entry £5 (£6 on Sunday), children free. www.beningtonlordship.co.uk

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St Edmundsbury Cathedral

A beacon of faith, hope and love in Suffolk

Have you visited the Cathedral shop recently? We sell a wide range of gifts, books, CDs and cards. Monday to Saturday 10.00 am to 4.00 pm Sunday 11.30 am to 4.00 pm

www.stedscathedral.org

SNOWDROPS AT BENINGTON LORDSHIP GARDENS BULL HOTEL We stgate • P e te rborough • P E1 1 RB

Valentine’s Weekend £220 for two people

Two night stay arriving on Friday 15th February for two people in an executive bedroom with Full English Breakfast each morning.

Historic ruins serve as a spectacular backdrop to the stunning display of naturalised snowdrops at Benington Lordship. The walled garden will showcase the impressive collection of two hundred snowdrop varieties. Beautiful views over surrounding parkland and a lakeside stroll complete a visit.

Includes rose petals on the bed, chocolates and a bottle of Prosecco on ice in the room. Enjoy a romantic candlelit three course luxury dinner in our Brasserie Restaurant on Saturday 16th February with live background music. Why not dine with us on Friday evening at an additional supplement.

Bring this ad with you for a free cup of tea

To make a reservation or for more information call 01733 561364

Homemade soup, tea & cakes. Gift shop. Free parking. Open daily 6 February-3 March 2019, 12-4pm. Admission £5 (£6 on Sundays), children free.

events@bull-hotel-peterborough.com www.peelhotels.co.uk

For more information ring 01438 869668 or visit www.beningtonlordship.co.uk Stevenage, Hertfordshire SG2 7BS.

117949 - CF Always On East Life Mag Ad 240x168 v1 RM.indd 1

10/01/2019 13:25

10 Ideas for Valentine’s Day

t’s the month of romance and if you’re planning to spoil someone special this Valentine’s Day, we’ve got your date night sorted with fabulous ideas for both him and her.

Restaurant with a view Make your dining experience extra special and book one of the most romantic tables for two in Cambridge at SIX. Part of the Varsity Hotel, you’ll whizz up six floors to the panoramic restaurant which has far reaching views over the city. Start with a cocktail at the bar, before sitting down to a tasty three course meal. Why not make a night of it and book a room at the hotel? www.thevarsityhotel.co.uk/six-panoramic-brasserie

Cocktails in the city If you want to be among the love birds and find a cosy corner in a cool bar then head to Norwich and hop your way around the city, sipping on fine cocktails. Visit Mr Postles Apothecary on Upper King Street for a 1820s vibe, Hawthorn on St Benedicts Street for an intimate evening and Frank’s Bar on Bedford Street, which is a favourite haunt for locals, known for its atmosphere and live music!

A grand performance Swoon at Shakespeare’s poetic language in the beautiful surroundings of Peterborough Cathedral as the Gearbox Theatre Company bring one of Shakespeare’s best loved comedies, Twelfth Night, to life. Tickets are priced £11-£25. If you really want to impress book the ‘Valentine Day Special’ which includes a luxury afternoon tea for two, interval drinks plus the option to renew your vows at Evensong before the show and meet the cast during the interval. The special is priced £85 for two. www.peterborough-cathedral.org.uk

Set sail in Suffolk Take in Suffolk’s stunning scenery and wildlife from the water aboard the Lady Florence, a river cruise restaurant. Serving brunch (there’s a Champagne option) and a la carte lunch year round, the cruise departs from Orford and sails the Rivers Alde and Ore. There’s a cosy coal fire to keep you warm while you dine. www.lady-ﬂorence.co.uk/lady-ﬂorence

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Fine dining

Lifestyle

Go all out this Valentine’s Day with an indulgent meal for two at Paris House in Woburn; a Michelin star recommended restaurant set in an 18th century house surrounded by 22 acres of deer park. The drive to the restaurant is enchanting as you meander your way up the path, passing herds of deer to the grand black and white building. Six, eight and 10 course menus are available. Each dish is so beautifully presented it looks like a work of art. Between 14-17 February, for an additional £55, you can enjoy Champagne, a sharer dessert, individually wrapped red rose and petits fours to take away. For chocolate lovers, book the Chocolate and Petits Fours Masterclass taking place on 17 and 21 February, priced £169 per person, which includes two hours of cooking, canapes, fizz and a five course lunch at the chefs table. www.parishouse.co.uk

A short break in Suffolk

Pop the question on a punt What could be more romantic than a cosy punt for two? Wrap up warm and snuggle under the blanket with a hot water bottle and take in the glorious architecture of Cambridge. Give your loved one a moment to remember with a private punting experience by Scudamores from 13-17 February, priced £100. It’s the perfect setting for a romantic proposal! www.scudamores.com/valentines-punting

Culture in Colchester Art lovers should take a trip to Colchester Castle on Valentine’s Day for an after-hours exclusive from 5-7pm. Meet with the curators as they explore the magic of Valentine’s and celebrate the history of love. A glass of bubbles is also included! Booking is essential, priced £7.50. cimuseums.org.uk/event/__trashed-5/

If you’re looking for a romantic getaway, you’ll be spoilt for choice in Suffolk. By day enjoy peaceful walks in the countryside or indulge in a couples massage at one of the many spas. As night falls, wrap up warm and watch the sunset on the horizon at Southwold with a glass of Champagne before sitting down for dinner and tucking into local produce. For a cosy cottage with a log fire try holiday property companies Suffolk Hideaways or Secret Suffolk. There’s no shortage of romantic hotels; the Ickworth Hotel, Swan at Southwold and Bildeston Crown are all stylish options.

Twilight spas If you and your partner have had a busy day at work, make time on Valentine’s evening to relax with a twilight spa experience. Relax by the pool or in the Jacuzzi, enjoy a steam and sauna and feel the stress of the day melt away. Aqua Sana Spa at Elveden Forest offers a twilight escape for two including a treatment from £69 per person. In Essex, Greenwoods Hotel and Spa offers a twilight afternoon from 2pm until 9pm, featuring full use of the facilities and afternoon tea served until 6pm, priced £99 for two. Read our review online at www.eastlife.co.uk

Sweet treats Want to make Valentine’s Day extra sweet? Surprise your loved one by picking up some handmade tasty treats at one of the region’s bakeries. The Pudding Stop in St Albans is a sweet tooth’s paradise with its sticky sponges, crumbles, ice cream and sundaes – you can also order online! A favourite among Suffolk residents is Two Magpies Bakery in Southwold and Aldeburgh and Pump Street Bakery in Orford, which has one of the most instagrammed walls in the county! There’s no denying that Fitzbillies in Cambridge serve up the best sticky Chelsea buns around, while independent artisan baker Bread Source in Norwich and Aylsham is fast becoming Norfolk’s go to for mouth-wateringly good pastries – try one of their bread making workshops!

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The Best Staycations P

ack your bags and head to the East of England for an unforgettable holiday

This little corner of the UK offers travellers something extra special. Beautiful beaches, luscious landscapes and villages that time forgot are a major attraction for visitors. Even during busy summer months, you can escape the crowds and find your own hideaway on golden sands or under the canopy of shady trees. The shores of Norfolk, Suffolk and Essex draw in families with its cheap entertainment of crabbing, boating and paddling in muddy creeks, while its deliciously fresh seafood and local brews attract groups of friends and couples looking for weekend getaways. Head inland and the dense forest, heaths and salt marshes are a beautiful sight to behold. Wild landscapes are home to an array of animals, impressive bird life and colourful flora. The Broads National Park attracts tourists year round with its boating opportunities, while Thetford Forest and the pine pathways on the North Norfolk coast and are popular among walkers and cyclists. Part of the East’s charm is captured in its history. There are few places that make you feel as though you’ve stepped back in time, but the colourful cottages and flint-built villages are reminders of a different life, one that makes you feel compelled to slow down and embrace your surroundings. Throughout the region stately homes, museums, castles, churches and timber-framed towns make an enjoyable day out. Research published by

Historic England at the end of 2018 revealed that the region’s heritage was a vital contribution to the East of England’s economy, generating £950m in spending by domestic and international tourists in 2016. The pace may feel slower but the social scene is eventful. The East of England is home to some of the UK’s biggest events. Festivals, fairs, live music, arts and more take place throughout the year so no matter what month you visit, you will find plenty to do! Where to stay If you want to start planning your summer holiday or are looking for a weekend getaway, there are lots of selfcatering options provided by professional holiday rentals. Norfolk Hideaways specialise in stylish properties across

eastlife.co.uk

the county to suit all size parties, while the Blakeney Cottage Company have a huge choice of stunning, homely cottages on the North Norfolk coast. For bigger budgets, book a break with SALT Norfolk which offers a range of premium coastal retreats. If it’s lazy days by the Suffolk Coast you desire, Suffolk Secrets specialise in coastal properties with a focus on Southwold and Aldeburgh, and have already added 30 new properties this year! Boutique agency So Southwold features luxury apartments, townhouses and cottages, but if you’re looking for a cosy home in the countryside try Suffolk Cottage Holidays. Elsewhere, the city of Cambridge is best enjoyed in style at luxury hotels such as The Varsity Hotel and The University Arms, and there’s a choice of holiday lets, hotels and camping opportunities throughout Essex, check out www.visitessex.com for inspiration.

If that’s got you thinking, take a look at our mini guide to the best staycations in the region: Best for Large Groups Chelsea Villa, Southwold Sleeps 14 If you’re marking a special occasion then this luxurious, seafront residence will have you celebrating in style. Boasting immaculately detailed interiors, with each sumptuously styled bedroom named after a Victorian author, Chelsea Villa makes the perfect backdrop for large groups. The question is; where to gather? There’s the large sitting room overlooking the sea, a light-filled open-plan dining room, a sanctuary-like snug, complete with jukebox and, if the sun is shining, grab a bottle from the wine fridge and head outside to dine alfresco in the Mediterranean-styled courtyard. Sublime! How to book: www.sosouthwold.co.uk

Above: Tui Cottage

Best for Dog Lovers Tui Cottage, Snape Sleeps 2 Dogs and their owners will adore this cosy cottage whatever time of year they visit. In winter, cosy up in front of the wood-burning stove whilst in warmer months, you can fling open the French doors and enjoy the private, fully-fenced garden. Modern, bright with light pouring from generous windows throughout, Tui Cottage feels like a home from home, the perfect base in which to explore the surrounding countryside. Don’t miss walking along the river Alde, which passes by the Snape Maltings complex (restaurants, galleries and Benjamin Britten concert hall), a haven for bird and wildlife and one of the best walks in the area. Alternatively, take the short drive to Aldeburgh for a run along the promenade. How to book: www.suffolk-secrets.co.uk

Left: Chelsea Villa. Above: The Windmill

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Clarence House. Right: Forest Park

Best for Big Spenders Clarence House Sleeps 24 Live like royalty at Clarence House! Not to be confused with the London residence of HRH Prince of Wales, guests opting to spend a week in this Suffolk abode of the same name will still feel like royalty. The grand manor house, set beside a large lake, features open fires, fine antique furniture, various reception rooms, an impressive dining hall, a wine cellar, and 12 bedrooms - most of which are en-suite with roll-top baths. There is plenty to entertain too, with a cinema room, a games room with pool, table tennis and table football, and a gym, while a tennis court can be found in the extensive 5,000 acres of shared grounds. Set in Sibton, in the Suffolk countryside, Clarence House is just a short drive from the heritage coastal towns of Aldeburgh and Southwold – perfect for a bracing walk. How to book: www.thewowhousecompany.co.uk

Best for Adults Only The Windmill Suffolk Sleeps 4 Originally built in 1891, the recently converted Windmill has been lovingly restored over the past two years into a lavish and luxurious adults-only holiday accommodation, ideal for those that enjoy the finer things in life. Nestled in the beautiful countryside, just two miles from historic Lavenham, it’s perfect for a romantic hideaway for two or for fun filled time off with friends. With stunning panoramic views, you can enjoy the uninterrupted sights from the comfy warmth of the top floor living space. Relax on inviting and sumptuously oversized handmade velvet sofas, piled high with plump cushions, fluffy blankets and cosy throws. In the small hours unwind and delight in the amazing and far reaching night sky views from the outside balcony on the top floor, perhaps with a glass or two of something chilled from that very handy wine fridge! Despite the short time frame since opening in 2016, The Windmill already boasts several accolades, scooping a handful of architectural and building awards. How to book: www.thewindmillsuffolk.com

Best for Adventure Wigwam Holidays Forest Park Sleeps 4 Make the most of Norfolk’s stunning scenery with an outdoors adventure! This idyllic holiday park is set in an AONB, surrounded by 100 acres of woodland with Cromer beach close by. The site includes 12 luxury en-suite ‘Running Water Deluxe Wigwam® Cabins’, five of which are dog friendly, so the whole family can come along! New for 2019 is an onsite doggy shower, so you can ‘pamper’ your pooch after the day’s exertions. All cabins are fully heated and insulated with kitchenette, dining table and chairs and comfy mattresses for a family of four. Other facilities include an indoor heated pool, outdoor children’s play area, onsite shop and clubhouse. The 2019 season begins 15 March. How to book: www.wigwamholidays.com/forest-park

Best for Families Priory Holme, Kersey Sleeps 6 Families will love this chocolate box, ‘quintessentially English’ thatched cottage. Step through the honeysucklecovered porch and the inside is just as cosy, with a wood-burning stove and comfy sitting room, whilst the beautiful mature gardens are a haven for kids to play or adults to relax in. Situated at the top of the hill affords Priory Holme fabulous views over the rest of the village (famed for its ford, which kids will love splashing in or biking through), and you’re never far from the rolling countryside in which to explore. Alternatively, head out to nearby Lavenham, Flatford Mill (of John Constable fame) or the Dedham Vale, one of the UK’s most beautiful valleys. How to book: www.suffolkcottageholidays.com

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Matthew Bourne’s Swan Lake. Photo by Johan Persson

On the stage Written by Shelley Beth www.shelleybeth.com Instagram @shelleybethblog

From West End tours to opera and more, here’s what’s coming to a theatre near you.

Norfolk Literary lovers rejoice, Norwich Theatre Royal (theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk) have adaptations ‘The Girl on The Train’ (1-6 July) and Agatha Christie’s ‘Mousetrap’ (8-13 July.) There’s plenty to keep the kids entertained too, with ‘The Worst Witch’ (16 - 20 April), Ben and Holly (7 - 8 June) and ‘Horrible Histories’ (23 - 25 May). There will be no shortage of laughter with Russell Kane (26 May), Al Murray (16 June) and Brian Blessed (18 March) performing. The Playhouse’s (norwichplayhouse. co.uk) comedic offering doesn’t disappoint, either catch Seann Walsh (3 - 5 March), Adam Riches (3 May) and Rachel Parris (20 March) to name a few.

Suffolk Broadway’s ‘Rock of Ages’ (5 - 9 March) hits The Regent Theatre (apps.ipswich.gov.uk) along with ‘Joseph’ (25 - 29 June). Best-selling author Adam Kay (30 March), The Guilty Feminist (9 May) and The Hairy Bikers (28 March) are other highlights.

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If you love ballet head to Bury’s Theatre Royal (theatreroyal.org) to catch the Central Ballet (11 April) and Welsh National Ballet’s ‘Romeo and Juliet’ (21 - 22 June). From movie and book adaptations to comedies, the New Wolsey (wolseytheatre.co.uk) has you covered with ‘Little Miss Sunshine’ (20 - 25 May), ‘The Picture of Dorian Grey’ (1 - 6 April) and ‘Margaret Thatcher Queen of Soho’ (24 March). The Girl On the Train

Horrible Histories

Cambridgeshire The classic ‘To Kill a Mockingbird’ (29 April - 4 May) comes to Cambridge Arts Theatre (cambridgeartstheatre.com) along with ‘The Worst Witch’ (6 - 10 February) and Sir Ian McKellen (10 -11 May). Also, in Cambridge, The Corn Exchange (cambridgelivetrust.co.uk) hosts The Northern Ballet’s ‘Puss in Boots’ (17 May). ‘The Lady in the Van’ (17 - 20 April) swings by The Key Theatre in Peterborough (vivacity.org) along with an ‘Only Fools and Horses’ dining experience (20 - 21 September).

‘ My Fair Lady’ takes an operatic twist at The Hertford Theatre (5 - 9 March) and the classic ‘La Boheme’ (13 March) hits the Broadway Letchworth Theatre. If you fancy a giggle both Seann Walsh (9 May) and Ruby Wax (22 - 23 May) play the Broadway Letchworth Theatre. Whilst the Alban Arena hosts Reginald D Hunter (19 May), Russell Kane (14 May) and an adult pantomime (8 June).

Bedfordshire Milton Keynes Theatre (atgtickets.com/venues/miltonkeynes-theatre/) has more West End smash hits than you can shake a stick at.

Essex There’s no shortage of West End shows coming to Essex. ‘My Fair Lady’ (26 February - 2 March) heads to Chelmsford Civic Theatre (chelmsford.gov.uk), while ‘Annie’ (27 May - 1 June), ‘The Calendar Girls’ (23 - 27 April) and ‘The Fully Monty’ (1 - 6 April) head to Cliffs Pavilion (southendtheatres.org.uk). Over in Basildon, ‘Avenue Q’ (11 -16 March) makes its debut (towngatetheatre.co.uk).

Catch ‘The Bodyguard’ in March (12 - 23). April sees ‘Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dream Coat’ (8 - 13) and American Idiot (23 - 27) hit the stage. ‘Les Misérables’ has a 3-week run (14 May - 8 June.) 1980s classic ‘Fame’ hits the stage in June (24 - 28). In July catch ‘Annie’ (1 - 6), ‘Hair’ (15 - 20) and ‘Motown the Musical’ (23 July - 3 August). The Bodyguard photo by Uli Weber

If you love dance, catch ‘Here Come the Girls’ (14 March) at Chelmsford Civic Theatre; the Vienna Festival Ballet will perform ‘Giselle’ (24 May) at the Princes Theatre (princestheatre.co.uk) and The Russian State Ballet of Siberia dance ‘Swan Lake’ (3 March) at Cliffs Pavilion. For a barrel of laughs or for something different head to The Mercury Theatre (mercurytheatre.co.uk) and learn how to be human with Ruby Wax (25 April). Catch the ‘Lady Boys of Bangkok’ (18 April) at the West Cliff (westcliffclacton.co.uk) or head to Cliffs Pavilion to experience the Fawlty Towers dining experience (22 - 23 March and 6 - 7 September). For something family friendly ‘Alice in Wonderland’ (13 - 14 April), ‘The Sooty Show’ (16 March) and ‘The Tiger Who Came to Tea’ (15 – 17 July) are on at the Civic Theatre, The Princes Theatre and The Palace Theatre, respectively.

Hertfordshire There’s fun for all the family at the Hertford Theatre (hertfordtheatre.com) with ‘Room on the Broom’ (22 - 23 March). ‘Horrible Histories’ (13 - 14 April) heads to The Broadway Letchworth Theatre (broadway-letchworth.com) and ‘Zog’ (16 - 18 April) swoops into the Alban Arena (alban-arena.co.uk).

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Hidden Histories:

Suffolk’s Historical Surprises L

ooking for a historical getaway? Look no further than England’s hidden gem, the county of Suffolk. With good transport links to and from London, as well as other places around the UK, Suffolk has a host of great sights and attractions for those looking to delve into British history. Visit Suffolk has put together some of the top historical places to visit in the region if you’re thinking of a trip on home soil this coming year. Bury St Edmunds Abbey What was once one of the richest and most powerful Benedictine monasteries in England, Bury St Edmunds Abbey is now a complex of extensive remains. In 903, the Abbey held the remains of the martyred King Edmund and became a place of religious pilgrimage. The Abbey also played host to a secret meeting in 1214 where a group of barons came together to sign the Magna Carta. During its rich history Bury St Edmunds welcomed and hosted various royals, including Henry VI and Henry VIII. The Abbey site now includes substantial ruins, the impressive 14th century Great Gate and Norman tower, as well as the altered west front of the church which has post-medieval houses built into its walls. The gardens adjacent the ruins are vast and beautiful; the perfect place to sit down and take in the history of the surroundings with a drink, before you venture into the rest of the town to experience independent businesses galore.

Wolsey was one of Henry VIII’s principal advisors in 1509. During the 14 years he was in a position of power, before losing favour with the King, Wolsey organised reforms across finance, taxation, educational provisions (including the creation of Cardinal College, Oxford, now Christ Church College) and justice. Wolsey’s Gate is a standing monument of what might have been. Wolsey had intended the gate to lead to his legacy, a feeder college to Cardinal College in his hometown of Ipswich. The gate was built and all the timber, stone and lead was onsite, but after Wolsey’s fall from grace all the materials were requisitioned by the King and taken back to London. Continue around Ipswich and you’ll find another Tudor structure, The Tudor Christchurch Mansion. This impressive house has over 500 years of history and is now a museum with period rooms as well as an art gallery where you can see some of John Constable and Thomas Gainsborough’s finest works.

Ipswich’s Historical Gems When you first think of Ipswich you’d be forgiven for just imagining a modern townscape with a beautiful marina, but Ipswich is actually the oldest Anglo-Saxon town in England. Granted a royal charter in 1200 it has links to the discovery of the Americas, and with historical powerhouse Cardinal Wolsey.

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The waterfront in Ipswich is now a bustling leisure hub, but also boasts a strong history. The bend of the River Orwell had been used for trade since the 8th century but Ipswich’s ‘biggest enclosed dock in the kingdom’ at the time was completed in 1842 after Royal Assent from Queen Victoria. It was highly expensive for road travel at the time and so sea travel was extremely important to transport grain and other supplies; the dock became a hive of industry up until the 1970s.

Palace House, Newmarket

Royal Legends For those history lovers who enjoy being in the great outdoors, Suffolk is full of great walks. One top walking route is set in the Shotley Peninsula and takes visitors alongside the River Orwell, and then heads inland to the village of Erwarton, where a royal legend thrives. The infamous second wife of King Henry VIII, Anne Boleyn had family in this village - her uncle Sir Phillip Parker lived at Erwarton Hall and she would often visit in her youth. Legend has it that Anne loved the village so much that she asked for her heart to be buried in the local church when she passed away. In 1838 renovations began on St Mary’s Church in Erwarton and a heart-shaped casket, with no inscription was discovered - many believe this is Boleyn’s heart, buried here by her uncle after her execution at the Tower of London in 1536. Visitors to the church can decide for themselves, as they gaze upon a drawing of Queen Anne Boleyn by Holbein which resides on the church organ.

A Town of Kings Newmarket is well-known for its four-legged residents and their racing prowess, but did you know that the Home of Horseracing was also home to royal palaces? Palace House, Newmarket now houses a National Gallery of Sporting Art as part of the National Heritage Centre for Horseracing and Sporting Art, but its history is vast.

King James I was the first royal to visit Newmarket frequently, travelling to the town to undertake sporting pursuits like hare coursing and hawking. He liked it so much that he had a royal palace constructed where he could hold court. This building was in a different location from the current Palace House site, and after James I died, his son Charles I spent much of his time at this residence until his imprisonment and execution during the English Civil War. During the 1650s Charles II had been in exile in Europe but in the 1660s the monarchy was restored and Charles II took over as King. He came to Newmarket soon after, spending his time with mistress Nell Gwynn (who held a residence opposite the palace), sporting pursuits and altering horseracing to what we know today. He decided to buy and extend a property, which was on the site where Palace House stands today. You can now stroll through the King’s bedroom, which now houses artistic masterpieces instead of royalty, and you can look through the oldest surviving sash window in the UK, the very same window Charles II would have looked out of in the 1660s. The window, dated 1670, was found between two walls when Palace House was refurbished. These are just some of the amazing historical elements waiting to greet you when you take a visit to Suffolk. Come and discover more! For more ideas and places to explore visit www.visitsuffolk.com

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N O RW I C H H I G H SCHOOL FOR GIRLS

OPEN WEEK

94%

A*-C / 9-4

M O N D AY 4 T H T O F R I D AY 8 T H M A R C H 2019

GCSEs 2018

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A Levels 2018

Flexible mini-bus service now available across Norfolk

Limited places for girls aged 3 to 16 to join our outstanding Pre-Prep and Prep School, Senior School or Sixth Form in September 2019 Visit www.norwichhigh.gdst.net, email admissions@nor.gdst.net or call 01603 453 265 to book your personalised tour

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School OPEN DAYS

Education

fsted reports, exam statistics, extra curicular activities – choosing the right school for your child can be overwhelming at times. A good place to start is an open day which provides an insight into a school’s overall approach and atmosphere. We’ve listed upcoming open days throughout the region to help make the process a little easier…

ESSEX St Aubyn’s School Bunces Lane, Woodford, Woodford Green, IG8 9DU Tel: 020 8504 1577 Open day: 14 March,10am. The Headmaster will talk at 10.15am A co-educational, independent, preparatory school, with around 500 pupils aged between 3-13. www.staubyns.com St Mary’s School for Girls 91 Lexden Road, Colchester, CO3 3RB Tel: 01206 572544 Open days: Kindergarten and Lower School, 7 February, 9 & 27 March, 25 April and 5 June, 9.30-11am; Senior School, 26 February, 10.30-12pm and 27 April, 10am-12pm. A high achieving independent school for girls aged 3-16 with a focus on building confidence and academic achievement. www.stmaryscolchester.org.uk

Brentwood School Middleton Hall Lane, Brentwood, CM15 8EE Tel: 01277 243243 Open day: Prep taster morning 9 March An independent day and boarding school for boys and girls aged 3-18. www.brentwoodschool.co.uk Gosfield School Cut Hedge Park, Halstead Road, Gosfield, CO9 1PF Tel: 01787 474040 Open day: 9 March An independent, co-educational through school, delivering a consistent and supportive learning environment for children from 2-18 years old. www.gosfieldschool.org.uk St. Michael’s Church of England Preparatory School 198 Hadleigh Road, Leigh-on-Sea, SS9 2LP Tel: 01702 478719 Open days: 1 March 10.30am – 12 noon & 2 March 10.30am – 12.30pm A non-selective school for children aged 3-11 years. www.stmichaelsschool.com

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Open Morning

Thursday, 14 March 2019 10.00am to 12.00pm

Headmasterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s introduction at 10.15am

Full tour of the School

3+ 7+ 11+

For further information please contact the Admissions Registrar.

registrar@staubyns.com 020 8504 1577 Bunces Lane, Woodford Green, Essex IG8 9DU

co-educational

independent

age 3 to 13

central line woodford

Prep School Taster Morning For Years 3-6 in Sept 2020 Saturday 9th March 2019 9.30am - 11.50am

www.brentwoodschool.co.uk/prep-taster-morning

www.staubyns.com Registered Charity No: 270143

Excellent independent boarding and day school located in Letchworth Garden City for girls aged 3 - 18 years

Open Days Spring 2019 Saturday 23rd March Friday 29th March

L E TC H W O R T H G A R D E N C I T Y P R E P A R ATO R Y - S E N I O R - S I X T H F O R M

01462 670 511 admissions@st-francis.herts.sch.uk www.st-francis.herts.sch.uk

YOUR ROUTE TO AN outstanding fUTURE Information Evening Tuesday 5th March 2019

4.30-6.30pm

Apply Online Today

www.eastnorfolk.ac.uk

Oxford House School 2-4, Lexden Road, Colchester CO3 3NE Tel: 01206 576686 Open day: Book a personal tour on any day of the week, giving you a chance to experience a normal school day. Part of the global Cognita family of schools, Oxford House is a traditional nursery and preparatory school providing the best education for 2Â˝-11 year olds. www.oxfordhouseschool.net

CAMBRIDGESHIRE Cambridge International School Cherry Hinton Road, Cambridge, CB1 8DW Tel: 01223 416938 Open days: Spring dates to be announced soon. The school provides an inspiring and exciting education for children aged 3-18. www.cambridgeinternationalschool.co.uk

Norwich High School for Girls 95 Newmarket Road, Norwich NR2 2HU Tel: 01603 453265 Open week: 4-8 March The school offers an education which is about more than exams, with sport, music, art, performance and innovative enrichment opportunities, for girls aged 3 to 18 years. www.norwichhigh.gdst.net Thetford Grammar School Bridge Street, Thetford IP24 3AF Tel: 01842 752840 Open days: 2019 dates are yet to be confirmed. Call directly for more information. An independent school offering a broad and balanced education for boys and girls aged 3 to 18 years. www.thetfordgrammar.co.uk

The Leys School Fen Causeway, Cambridge, CB2 7AD Tel: 01223 508900 Open days: 9 February and 27 April. A co-educational independent day and boarding school for children aged 11-18. www.theleys.net Cambridge Regional College Kings Hedges Road, Cambridge, CB4 2QT Tel: 01223 418200 Open days: Huntingdon Campus; 7 February, 2 May and 15 June. Cambridge Campus; 9 February, 3 April and 13 June. Highly-rated further education college with excellent fulltime and part-time courses, apprenticeships and Higher Education, and professional training for businesses. www.camre.ac.uk

NORFOLK Wymondham College Wymondham, Norfolk, NR18 9SZ Tel: 01953 609000 Open days: Boarder taster evenings, 22 March & 14 June, 5.45-8.30pm; Main School open mornings, 23 March & 15 June, 9-11am; Sixth Form mini open mornings, 9 February and 29 June. A school for students aged 11-18, boarders and day pupils. www.wymondhamcollege.org East Norfolk Sixth Form Church Lane, Gorleston, Great Yarmouth, NR31 7BQ Tel: 01493 662234 Open day: Information Evening 5 March, 4.30-6.30pm The sixth form college welcomes 1,700 students to study a curriculum with over 80 A Level and BTEC subjects at Level 3 and Level 2. www.eastnorfolk.ac.uk

SUFFOLK Stoke College Stoke by Clare, Sudbury, CO10 8JE Tel: 01787 278141 Open days: 2019 dates to be announced soon. Prep School open days are usually held on Friday mornings, and Senior School and Sixth Form events on Saturday mornings. An independent day and boarding school with a focus on strong academic progress, providing a breadth of experience and opportunity to develop character and help each child to discern their future. www.stokecollege.co.uk South Lee School Nowton Road, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 2BT Tel: 01284 754654 Open day: Call directly to meet the head and take a tour. Independent Day School & Nursery for boys and girls aged 2-13, offering a stimulating and caring environment for your child. www.southlee.co.uk

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South Lee School #allhavetalent

OPEN MORNING Saturday 9th February 2019 BOOK YOUR 10am-12noon PLACE NOW

T: 01284 754654



I believe in the value of knowledge Open Morning Wednesday 6th March, 10am Telephone: 01234 361918 www.bedfordgirlsschool.co.uk Bedford Girls’ School is part of The Harpur Trust

E: office@southlee.co.uk | W: www.southlee.co.uk

An independent co-educational school for children ages 21/2 - 11 years  Strong traditional values  Unrivalled 11+ results  Montessori teaching methods

 Music, dance and drama enrich the curriculum

Now taking registrations for Nursery 2020-21 For more information or to visit the school, please contact Mrs Despriet on 01206 576686 OXFORD HOUSE SCHOOL, 2 LEXDEN ROAD, COLCHESTER, CO3 3NE Email: info@oxfordhouseschool.net

www.oxfordhouseschool.net

HERTFORDSHIRE & BEDFORDSHIRE St Francis College Broadway, Letchworth Garden City, SG6 3PJ Tel: 01462 670511 Open days: 23-29 March An all-girls school that provides an excellent education, focusing on nurturing the individual talents of its pupils, aged between 3-18 years old. www.st-francis.herts.sch.uk Kingshott School Stevenage Road, St Ippolyts, Hitchin, SG4 7JX Tel: 01462 432009 Open day: 3 May A co-education day prep school for children aged 3-13, providing tradition and innovation in teaching and learning. www.kingshottschool.com Duncombe School 4 Warren Park Road, Hertford, SG14 3JA Tel: 01992 414100 Open days: 7 March and 2 May, 9.45am-11am. A private school with co-educational Preparatory and PrePreparatory Schools, for pupils aged 2-11 years. www.duncombe-school.co.uk

Haileybury and Imperial Service College Hertford, SG13 7NU Tel: 01992 706200 Open days: 11+ & 13+ 16 March, 9.30am, 11+ 15 May, 9.30am and 16+ 20 June, 6pm A co-educational boarding and day school for ages 11-18. www.haileybury.com St Christopher School, Letchworth Barrington Road, Letchworth Garden City, SG6 3JZ Tel: 01462 650850 Open day: 11 May, 9.30am-1pm. An independent school for girls and boys aged 3â&#x20AC;&#x201C;18. www.stchris.co.uk Bedford Girlsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; School Cardington Road, Bedford, MK42 0BX Tel: 01234 361900 Open day: 6 March, 10am A vibrant independent day school for girls aged 7 to 18 years. www.bedfordgirlsschool.co.uk

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Dog-friendly

Tails about town Written by Emma Kemsley

Spoilt Spaniel F

ollowing a rather low-key Christmas and New Year (apart from when Fletcher got caught in the fairy lights and almost pulled the whole tree down), I was worried that I might not have any anecdotes to report this month, but I can always rely on Fletcher to pull something out the bag. This time for all the wrong reasons. He is being an absolute nightmare and I’m at my wits end. I can only think of one reason...he is SPOILT! Too spoilt.

Having my husband and I at home for almost two weeks over the festive break, it appears Fletcher has become accustomed to the extra belly rubs, cuddles on the sofa, presents and treats. During Christmas he has had our full attention, days have evolved around his needs. We’ve been on lots of lovely local walks including Audley End Park in Saffron Walden, South Weald Country Park, city strolls in Cambridge and a refreshing New Year’s Day walk in Grantchester, where Fletcher dived straight into the middle of a group of canoeists and proved he is the ultimate mucky pup by covering himself head to paw in thick, sticky mud. Since I’ve returned to work, he has been a complete pest! Whining, crying and hanging on me as I type. He simply won’t settle. And when he does I can see one big brown eye staring at me and hear subtle whimpers. I spent a good few days pandering to his needs, thinking perhaps he was ill, but no, there’s nothing wrong with him. Then I thought maybe he could smell the fox that I saw dart across the garden, but that was a week ago. Truth is, he is just being naughty!

I’ve lost count how many times I’ve threatened him with Battersea Dogs Home. I even called the vets to enquire about having him neutered. When I said our surname, the vet immediately replied with: “Fletcher! Oh yes, I remember him, such a bundle of energy!” Of course she remembers him, he likes to make an impression. Last time she saw him, he was splashing blood around her reception. Anyway she believes as he doesn’t hump nor is he aggressive, neutering won’t help and he is “just being a spaniel!” Things got so bad earlier this week, that my husband and I had to leave the house. On a cold, damp Tuesday evening in January, our dog actually made us leave home. I wish I was joking and I know it sounds ridiculous, but I needed the peace and quiet. We went for dinner just to have an hour break from his relentless playing and whining. As I write this, he has climbed on the back of my chair and onto my shoulders because I’m not paying him attention. Send help! Read more Tails About Town at www.eastlife.co.uk/dog-friendly

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Basic behavior

Written by

Karen Rhodes

f there’s a new puppy in the home and you’re excited to start training, get ahead before they’re old enough to attend classes with our five tips for training the basics.

Sit Take a treat and move it towards your dog above their head. As you move it between their eyes, the dog will naturally sit back to look up. Hey presto, you have a sit! Repeat this exercise until they undersatnd each time and then add the word “sit”. Simply repeat until you can say “sit” and they do so without the need for using treats.

Down With your dog in a sitting position take a treat from their nose in a downward motion to the ground. This may take a little longer than the sit to master but once they have it, give lots of praise. Repeat until they’ve got it before introducing the word down.

Come Whatever you’re doing will be interesting to an inquisitive new pup, coming to you will be easy in the home but could be more difficult outside if not mastered early on. Each time your puppy comes to you give lots of praise and a reward and you can guarantee they’ll come back for more.

Stay/Settle Probably the most difficult for a wiggly puppy but the earlier you start, the quicker they’ll pick it up. You might need someone helping with this by holding them to begin with in the place you want them to settle. Keep them in one position, move a short distance away, treat them for staying in the same position and gradually increase the length of time.

Heal/loose lead walking If your puppy is racing ahead at the end of their lead, it’s because they’re excited to get to where you’re going. Give your pup something to do during the walk like looking at you for a tasty treat. They can’t focus on looking up at you if they’re ahead so they’ll naturally stay close. It’s best to sign up for training classes as soon as you bring your puppy home to guarantee your space for when they’re able to attend. To find a list of trainers in your area, a good place to start is the IMDT www.imdt.uk.com/ﬁnd-a-qualiﬁedimdt-trainer.html or APDT www.apdt.co.uk/dog-owners/ local-dog-trainers to find experienced, qualified trainers who abide by a code of ethics.

As chosen by Dragons Den Star and entrepreneur Theo Paphitis, Karen Rhodes is the owner of award-winning Suffolk Dog Services. She provides rural adventure walks specialising in high energy working dog breeds. Taking them away from their usual surroundings and treating them to amazing experiences. www.suﬀolkdogservices.co.uk | Facebook: /suﬀolkdogservices

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MUM’s The Word

Little East

Written by Dolly Osborne

Love on the playground M

y 10-year-old turned around to me the other day and said: “Mummy, which is the bad person: the dumper or the dumpee?”

It led on to a conversation that made the playground dating scene seem like a Stalinist regime where basically dumping someone makes you an outcast. I explained to my son that as heartbreaking as being told that someone might not like you in the same way you like them is, that it’s not an act of evil to be honest about your feelings. I mean look at the alternatives: you never have the fun of puppy love, of exchanging friendship bands or Pokémon cards or whatever the big thing of the moment is, and whilst avoiding dating drama may seem tempting it is quite a good way to hone your social skills before hormones complicate things even further. Or you just pretend to like someone who likes you in order to not be the ‘bad guy’; this seemed to be the path my son was considering with his (not so) secret admirer but I pointed out that by doing this he wasn’t, in fact, choosing the kinder path.

To hide how you actually feel, to make someone think that you like them more than you do is actually not kind to either party. Also it can lead to the cruellest of dating behaviours, that of ghosting someone who has no idea of your feelings towards them and no way of finding out. Let us be honest the likelihood of finding the great love of your life at primary school or even secondary school is rather slim and therefore he does need to learn the skills, and undoubtedly experience the pain, of heartbreak. As a mother of a boy I feel I have a real duty to raise a son who treats women the right way, I just didn’t think I’d be up against a fascist no-dumping regime when I did that.

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

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things to do this half term

f you’re forever trying to get your children to step away from a screen, try one of these fantastic family days out to put a smile on their face…

Gruesome going-ons at Framlingham Castle, 18-22 Feb, 11am-3pm Church Street, Framlingham, Suffolk, IP13 9BP Make history fun with tales of painful punishments and pop up activities. Children can re-write history and decide who are ‘Top of the Chops’ and discover an alphabet of grim and ghastly tortures and punishments throughout history. Price: Adults £9.50, Child 5-17 years £5.70, English Heritage members free www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/whats-on/framlinghamcastle-gruesome-goings-on-18-02-19

Get your skates on in Cromer, 19-23 Feb North Lodge Park, Overstrand Road, Cromer, Norfolk, NR27 0AH If your little ones are fans of ITV’s ‘Dancing on Ice’, give them the chance to practice some moves of their own at North Lodge Park’s synthetic ice rink. Pre-booking is recommended but not essential. Price: £6-£7.50 www.northlodgepark.org.uk

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Fantasy February at Roarr! Dinosaur Adventure, 18-24 Feb, 9am-4pm Lenwade, Norwich, Norfolk, NR9 5JE Let your child’s imagination run wild as they get to dress up as their favourite fantasy character and learn about the beauty of nature with four workshops throughout the day. Every child in full fancy dress (no cheating with wings and a mask!) will gain 50 percent off entry. Price: Usual entry cost applies, workshops priced £1 www.roarrdinosauradventure.co.uk/events Game Plan, until 3 March

St Albans Museum + Gallery, Town Hall, St Peter’s Street, St Albans, AL1 3DH Who doesn’t love a good board game? Originally displayed at the V&A’s Museum of Childhood, this exhibition celebrates the most iconic games of our time and those from a time gone by. There are hands-on interactive experiences where you can learn what type of player you are and over 100 objects to browse. Price: Adults £5, under 18s £2.50 www.stalbansmuseums.org.uk

Magic and Mayhem, 22 Feb, 7.30pm St George’s Theatre, King Street, Great Yarmouth, Norfolk, NR30 2PG Let award-winning TV magician Chris North and ventriloquist and magician Paul Henri entertain the whole family with a spellbinding evening of magic. Price: Adults £9, Children (under 16) £6 www.stgeorgestheatre.ticketsolve.com/ shows/873601166

Make a masterpiece, until 24 March The Higgins Bedford, Castle Lane, Bedford, MK40 3XD Let your children get creative with art and science workshops inspired by the gallery’s ‘We are Five’ exhibition. Workshops start at 11am, 12.30pm and 2pm and last one hour. The activities are aimed at 5 to 13 years old. Tickets must be purchased in advance at The Higgin’s reception. Price: £3 www.thehigginsbedford.org.uk

Awesome Archaeology, 11am-5pm, 11am-3pm Silsoe, Bedfordshire, MK45 4HR A chance for children to get their hands dirty as they become a daring archaeologist on a mini dig for the day. Re-create ancient faces by layering on plasticine onto their bones, and try out the GeoPhys kit to scan what lies under the ground. Discover hidden treasures and fantastic finds as you excavate the secrets of Wrest Park. Price: Adults: £10.90, Children (5-15): £6.50, English Heritage members free www.english-heritage.org.uk/wrestpark

February Half Term Trail, 18-24 Feb, 10am-3pm Marks Hall Gardens and Arboretum, Marks Hall, Coggeshall, Essex, CO6 1TG

Twilight at the Museums, 20 Feb, 5-7.30pm Kettles Yard, Castle Street, Cambridge, CB3 0AQ See the city’s museums in a new light! Step into the unknown and explore local museums and collections after dark where visitors can view works from a different perspective and discover a luminous trail and new exhibitions. Complete your adventure by visiting the Clore Learning Studio and take part in creative activities using light, image projections, grids and lines. Don’t forget your torch! Price: Free www.kettlesyard.co.uk

Meet the newborns on the farm, 16-24 Feb (closed 18 Feb), 10am-4pm Baylham Farm, Mill Lane, Baylham, Ipswich, Suffolk, IP6 8LG Get up close and cuddle the newborn lambs at the farm. Some lucky visitors may even see a lamb be born! There’s also other hand-on experiences including pig and goat grooming and meeting the bunnies in the Bunny Barn. Price: Free entry baylham-house-farm.co.uk

Discover the trees and pretty flowers that come to life at this time of year. Visitors can follow the fun snowdrop trail and learn something new while discovering the trail boards. Children aged 3 to 13 years can complete the trail leaflet and win a prize! Price: Normal Admission Applies. Trail cost: £1.50 www.markshall.org.uk/Event/february-half-term-trail

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Food&Drink news

Food & Drink

Goodbye to Plastic

The UK’s first zero-plastic spring water is now stocked at Roarr! Dinosaur Adventure, one of the first companies in East Anglia to stock the innovative new product. As the park continues to move forward with its environmental impact status, guests will now have the opportunity to buy Life Water, the UK’s first BPA-free canned spring water. Joining the campaign to help change attitudes towards plastic waste and its effect on our environment, Roarr! Dinosaur Adventure will be stocking the cans, which are 100% recyclable and made from 70% recycled aluminium, with the water sourced locally from British natural springs. These will replace single-use plastic bottles at the park, with all the cans sealed from light and air, for freshness. The scheme is supported by scientists and is already in operation at the Natural History Museum in London. Over nine million cans are recycled every hour, with worldwide aluminium recycling preventing around 170 million tonnes of greenhouse gases from entering the environment each year.

A COCKTAIL FOR LOVE Jawbox Valentine Martini Ingredients: 35 ml Jawbox Gin, 10 ml Triple Sec, 10 ml lemon juice, 10 ml Ruby Blue Cranberry Juice, 1 Egg white Method: Dry shake all the ingredients for about 30 seconds. Add ice and shake again until cold. Double strain into a martini glass and garnish with a star anise. Jawbox Gin, priced £30, available from national supermarkets and Amazon.

Two New Properties for The Chestnut Group The Chestnut Group has announced the addition of The Weeping Willow near Bury St Edmunds and The Eight Bells in Saffron Walden to its growing portfolio of East Anglian country and coastal inns. The Weeping Willow, located in Barrow, eight miles from Bury St Edmunds, is a 16th century pub, which was restored and expanded in 2017 to create a modern country pub and kitchen. The Eight Bells is a much loved pub in Saffron Walden and offers a locally sourced menu and an extensive drinks offering in its oak beamed bar and barn style historic dining room. www.theweepingwillow.co.uk | www.8bells-pub.co.uk

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The

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

Foodie

It’s pretty hot out there C

ertainly not the weather, although we’ve had a very mild winter. I am talking about the local food scene. I always think that I can predict what is next, but I have to say many of the new openings have taken me by surprise. Vegan products have become extremely popular in the UK, so much in fact, that we are now the market leader in vegan products. From a niche product, it has grown up as a serious player on the market. Marks & Spencer’s have recognised this with the launch of a new line of 60 vegan gourmet products. It also makes you wonder if there is anything else new under the sun? Yes, there is indeed! I am writing this article whilst travelling in Australia, often seen as one to the leading countries for food trends. Apparently, the next big thing is also a plant-based cuisine. Not a new one, but an ancient one, Greek! At home in Cambridge, we can look forward to a huge number of new openings in the food scene. Some of them will be open by the time you are reading this, others will soon open their doors. From fine dining to fast food and coffee, there is something for everybody. Let’s kick off with fast food; burgers! Do we need more as there are quite a few burger joints around already? However, these are not the kind of burgers you are used to. They are vegan! I couldn’t believe it, that not just one but two vegan burger places decided to open their doors in Cambridge in January. Doppleganger Burger in Regent Street and Vegan Vice has a permanent kitchen take over at Ta Bouche. One of our favourite street food traders has decided to have a permanent base too. Brix + Mortar by Provenance Kitchen, is a cafe and deli that serves delicious food cooked over an open fire in Whittlesford. I am a big fan

of real fire. It gives the food a distinct flavour and there is nothing better than slow-cooked food and pizza from a wood fired oven. Thirsty, the well-known quirky bottle shop, bar and eatery on Chesterton Road now has a base in King Street. Thirsty & Hungry serves up a good glass of wine, craft beer and delicious food designed by Mark Poynton. Mill Road is going to be the hotbed for new foodie places this year. In December the Cambridge Waffle Bar and the Turkish baker Bravo opened their doors at the back end of Mill Road. Artisans at heart, they make everything from scratch. In March, Alex Rushmer and Lawrence Butler will open Vanderleyle with daily changing menus and seasonal food. Our favourite Sicilian cafe, Aromi has introduced ‘Aperitivo’ time at Bene’t Street and a stone’s throw away, one of the most exciting and quirky openings is in Downing Street. Tucked away under the arcades of the Hilton Cambridge, The Brew Project, specialty roasters, hailing from Bury St. Edmunds, will open a barber shop, brunch venue, natural wine and craft beer/spirits bar plus live music, coffee and barbering events. The word ‘quirky’ doesn’t really cover it, don’t you think? Have fun eating and drinking your way around these new foodie hotspots!

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A TASTE OF LOVE Nothing says romance like a good glass of wine. Here’s six of the best to enjoy on Valentine’s Day…

Written by Matt Dicks Twitter @vinopatrol

oses are red, violets are blue, have I got some amazing 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. However, this begs the question, what exactly is a romantic wine?

For me, it’s a tipple that hits the sweet spot that fills the moment with quality and magic. However, you don’t need to splash the cash as fine wine isn’t the answer to everything.

Love it or loath it, the 14th 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, if you’ve thought about your lover’s tastes, attentively chosen a tipple to woo them or considered matching the wine to a romantic dinner that you’ve made, you can triple your brownie points in a heartbeat. Plus, we know that points win prizes on Valentine’s Day! It could make all the difference. So here’s a handpicked selection of drinks to help charge those love batteries, ready to sip and impress:

Mirabeau La Folie Rosé If your other half enjoys a classy glass of rosé but also likes a cheeky glass of fizz then pour them a glass of this sparkling masterpiece. Hailing from Luberon in central Provence, Mirabeau La Folie Rosé is the perfect aperitif and pairs beautifully with salads, seafood tapas and summer fruit desserts.

British Cassis & Prosecco Sweet at first taste, before the irresistibly sharp after-kick, British Cassis is the perfect aperitif served straight, over ice, twists beautifully into fizzing champagne or prosecco and is decadent in cocktails.

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Green apple, pear and almond aromas abound here, backed by succulent fruit on the palate and a lifted mineral finish. An authentic taste of southern Italy that will excel with chicken and roasted vegetable dishes.

If you decide to stay in and rule the kitchen then why not try this great alternative to world renowned Rioja. Heralding from sunny southern Spain, the cooler climate high up in the mountains of Andalucía, hidden away behind the beaches and holidaymakers, helps create a medium bodied wine of real freshness, complex yet easy drinking, with crisp acidity, soft tannins and plenty of juicy fruit.

Gifford’s Hall Rosé Magnum Suffolk Go big for Valentine’s Day and splash out on a magnum, it makes for an iconic table piece. A delightful blend of Madeleine Angevine and Rondo grapes results in a delicate yet concentrated nose, with a wild strawberry aroma, hints of white flowers and peaches. The palate is fresh, with distinct red berry flavours and a touch of pink grapefruit.

St. Giles Gin 51 million bottles of gin were purchased by UK consumers last year and I’m sure your loved one contributed towards that statistic! Distilled in historic Norwich but inspired by the four corners of the earth – lemongrass and rose petals are just two exotic botanicals in this smooth, fruity gin. St. Giles is smooth enough to impress in a glass over ice.

Matt Dicks has been a Wines, Beers and Spirits Specialist for Waitrose since 2006. He holds a variety of Wine and Spirit Education Trust (WSET) certificates. He is also a judge for the International Wine Challenge and International Wine and Spirit Competition.

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Health

The Power of the Mind

Are you stressed or do you just need hypnoanalysis? Emma Kemsley investigates.

ypnosis. What comes to mind? Falling asleep at the click of the fingers or running around a stage like a chicken? The concept has been given a bad reputation over the years, thanks to TV shows and films, but things are changing, and the complementary therapy is now being used to treat a multitude of conditions. Claire Ivey, an Essex based hypnotherapist, has 17 yearsexperience specialising in hypnosis, hypnotherapy and hypnoanalysis, her preferred method. “It occurs when one is relaxed and the hypnoanalyst will ask questions about how the client is feeling. The client answers and a dialogue ensues led by the client’s answers,” she says. The method can help one deal with emotional issues, be it stress or grief, using the subconscious to overcome the problem. Claire adds: “The subconscious mind is open and willing due to bypassing the CCF (Conscious Critical Faculty). Hypnoanalysis is my much preferred method to help the client overcome their difficulty as the root cause can be found and resolved.” I must admit I was apprehensive when I sat down for a session with Claire. I had little understanding of the process and I was worried about feeling out of control. However Claire, is a calming force and fully explained

every step, making the session a comfortable and enjoyable experience. For me, we focused on fertility. After two failed rounds of IVF and years of chronic pain from endometriosis, we focused on creating techniques using numbers, colours and shapes to learn how to connect my body to the treatment. Claire explained that by using emotional intelligence and techniques, clients can see a positive change. And she was right. After our session, I was feeling much more positive about the next steps in my fertility treatment. It helped me deal with emotions that I hadn’t realised were underlying. At no point during the session did I feel out of control, I was relaxed and aware of everything I was saying and feeling. Claire is keen to break the stigma surrounding hypnotherapy. It’s in no way a mystical experience, there’s no looking into eyes and staring at swirls, it is in fact perhaps an untapped resource for helping us deal with our emotions and experiences. “Many people don’t understand you can connect with your body,” says Claire. “It’s a very natural process. Every session is unique, which is why I never tire of it. It’s stimulating!” Claire Ivey is also a trained psychotherapist, counsellor and life coach. To find out more about how she could help you visit www.hypnocaring.com

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Six Expert Tips to Improve Your Immune Health! Y

our immune system does a terrific job of defending against harmful microorganisms in your body that can cause you to fall ill. But, in order to keep your immune system functioning at its peak, adopting certain healthy habits can help keep harmony throughout your entire body and keep those nasty bugs at bay. We have listed six healthy-living strategies to help keep your body as nutrient-filled as possible to ensure your immune system will have the upper hand! Get some vitamin D The UK’s leading nutritionist and author of The Natural Health Bible for Women, Dr. Marilyn Glenville (www.marilynglenville.com), recommends upping your vitamin D to help boost your immunity. “According to research, vitamin D strengthens the body’s immune system and is able to ‘trigger and arm’ the body’s T cells to attack invaders and fight infection. Natural food sources of vitamin D are few, but it is found in oily fish and eggs as well as fortified foods such as margarines and breakfast cereal.” You can also try adding a vitamin D supplement to your diet, such as NHP’s Vitamin D3 Support, which delivers the government recommended 400ius per day (£12.97, www.naturalhealthpractice.com).

Swap your go to drink for Kombucha Looking for a healthier alternative to that G&T? Try switching it up for a super refreshing bottle of Kombucha – the perfect cultivation of flavours that also helps to boost your immunity. Try Equinox Kombucha (£1.80, from Waitrose), which brews the finest organic green tea with spring water and organic, unrefined cane sugar before adding the kombucha culture and fermenting for a few weeks, creating this award-winning recipe, which is very much alive! If you still want that hit of gin, try adding Equinox as your mixer and ditching the sugar-filled tonic water!

Up your heart rate Exercise reduces the impact of the stress hormones, which make us more vulnerable to colds and flu. “Normally, when these hormones are released we are in ‘fight or flight’ mode and we are going to spring into action. So, when we are active this actually helps dissipate the stress hormones instead of them building up and causing havoc on the immune function,” explains Dr. Glenville.

Add a probiotic Did you know that 70% of your immune system is in your gut? The beneficial bacteria in your gut can not only help reduce inflammation, but can also help with the severity of a cold. To help increase the ‘good’ bacteria in your gut, you can try adding a probiotic supplement. Dr.Glenville recommends NHP Advanced Probiotic Support (£31.78, www.naturalhealthpractice.com).

Swap your crisps for oat-based snacks Everyone loves a good bag of crisps, but it’s best to keep them to an occasional snack and make the switch to Nairn’s Fine Milled Oatcakes – they contain double the fibre, fewer calories and can also help boost your immune system.

Herbs for help The immune system has to deal with a lot of stressors on a daily basis. It can be worn down by illness, toxins, pollution in the air, ageing, bacteria, and even physical exertion. “Herbs can provide extra support for your immune system over winter. Try Natures Plus Tri-Immune tablets (£27.50, www.revital.co.uk), which includes olive leaf and andrographis, both traditional herbs for helping fight colds and flu,” suggests Cassandra.

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We mainly specialise in silver, gemstone and leather jewellery for both men and women. We also have a lovely range of new baby gifts, handbags, purses, scarves, and gifts for all occasions.

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Fashion

Finding Style Inspiration Written by Ruth Essex

ven if you don’t follow high fashion, it is so easy to start feeling frumpy if you don’t make efforts to renew and refresh. So how about trying a style inspiration exercise? If you are a magazine reader, then a scrap book, glue stick and pair of scissors is a great place to start. Set some time aside just for you. Gather fashion magazines, Sunday supplements, Boden catalogue; whatever no one minds you cutting up. Look for things you are drawn to. It might be a style, a texture, a feeling or even the sleek lines of a silver car. The advert might highlight how you like simple clean lines, in neutral colours, in your clothing. Flip past the pictures you feel indifferent or have no real reaction to, and ignore affordability and practicality. Go for the gut feelings of love it or hate it.

If you are more of an IT person, then Pinterest is an excellent tool to group together electronic images that you love. I use this for both my own personal inspiration and also for clients. If you want to take a look, my account is Ruth Essex at www.pinterest.co.uk/ruthaugust, where you can peruse some of my readymade pin boards. There are boards on ‘Navy as a Neutral’ or ‘Spring Colour Outfits’ for example. Set up your own account for free if you like the look of Pinterest, then start following others who inspire you or pinning boards yourself. If you find a look that you want to try, have a go at recreating your own version of it. It is within everyone’s reach to feel stylish and happy in their statement look, however I do understand that it takes time and some effort to work out what stylish and happy means for you. Identifying the styles you are drawn to and the outfits you want to wear, can stop you making expensive shopping mistakes or purchasing random items that end up as unworn items hanging lonely on the rail. Before you know it, you will be able to identify your style happy place. Ruth Essex is a Stylist & Image Consultant ruthcrofts@btinternet.com | Tel: 07900 910 666

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Belle Love Clothing

2-3 Eld Lane, Colchester, Essex CO1 1LS.

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Shoppers want more! At a time where we expect things at the click of a button, Simon Stone, retail director of Springfields Outlet (springfieldsoutlet.co.uk), tells us how shopping malls are meeting customer demand

etail is a dynamic industry, and shopping centres and the stores within them are having to constantly evolve to stay up-to-date. At this moment in time we are probably witnessing the biggest and fastest changes at shopping centres. To address changing lifestyle needs, shopping centres have started to move away from a retail only offer, introducing new leisure concepts to enhance the shopping experience.

Customers can now purchase a new work outfit online while they watch TV in their front room, but internet shopping still only accounts for less than 20% of spending. Shoppers still spend more of their hard-earned money in physical stores, but the internet is likely to continue to grow and so traditional shops and shopping centres must keep moving. The principal change we are seeing is that customers are no longer simply browsing and purchasing items, the focus is very much about making memorable experiences, and using valuable time in exciting and interesting spaces and places. People are seeking a day out to enjoy time with family and friends, alongside the traditional shopping experience. While shopping remains fundamentally important, a varied and quality customer experience has become essential for successful shopping centres. A high quality, luxury customer experience will be critical to the future of shopping. There will be increasing

diversity of the in-shop offer. For example, shoppers will have noticed certain fashion brands introducing premium services such as hair salons or nail bars into their stores and we see this trend sure to continue. I think this helps to explain our own success at Springfields. We’ve seen a steady increase in visitors and 14 years of consecutive turnover growth since opening in 2004. Being located within 45 acres of grounds, shared with Springfields Festival Gardens, our customers can enjoy a unique shopping experience. In the past six months alone we’ve added premium brands Joules, Jack Wills, White Stuff and the Cosmetics Store Company (part of the Estee Lauder Group). Springfields visitors can tour the grounds featuring fountains, sculptures, wetlands and woodlands, plus showcase gardens by renowned designers such as Chris Beardshaw and Charlie Dimmock. Customers can sample one of numerous cafes or restaurants or, during the summer months, ride the water taxi into Spalding town centre. Last summer, we opened Adventure Land, featuring the UK’s largest JCB Young Drivers’ Zone, a covered beach, gold-panning and Treetop Village. Providing an even better day out for all of the family. Shopping centres will continue to change. We will see further development of leisure being introduced alongside stores. Family entertainment and physical experiences will be at the forefront. And we will see technology leading the way, with a vast array of exciting new concepts making use of innovation such as virtual reality which will bring family and friends together. The retail industry in the UK remains an ever-changing landscape, reflecting customers demand.

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Exclusive Weddings at Bruisyard Hall Bruisyard Hall is a magnificent 5-star country house with a beautifully refurbished medieval barn that you can call your own for a weekend or midweek wedding, party or event. Whether you would prefer a small wedding with your nearest and dearest, an intimate vow renewal ceremony, or a big wedding fulfilling your dreams and desires, we have everything you need for a beautiful countryside wedding.

Luxury Accommodation • Intimate Hall Weddings • Barn Weddings Licensed for civil ceremonies • 2 & 3 night stays with wedding party

Join us on 14th April 2019 for our Wedding Open Day 01728 639000 • www.bruisyardhall.com • info@bruisyardhall.co.uk Bruisyard Hall, Bruisyard, Saxmundham, Suffolk IP17 2EJ

Wedding The

Issue

ewly engaged and don’t know where to start? Don’t panic, we’ve got everything you need to know about planning your big day within our wedding special. Read our guide to some of the most luxurious venues in the East of England, find out where you can browse the best regional suppliers and discover 2019’s hottest trends that will get your wedding guests talking… eastlife.co.uk

To the Fair Why attend wedding fairs & how to get the most out of them Written by Katrina Otter

t’s that time of year again when there are wedding fairs and open days taking place every weekend and, if you’re recently engaged, it’s really rather tempting to attend as many as possible. However, are wedding fairs worth it when everything is now online? How do you make them work for you? And how can they help you plan your wedding? Answers below…

Firstly, making time to visit wedding fairs, especially when you’re in the early stages of planning your wedding, is definitely a good idea. Why? Well, there’s no substitute quite like meeting suppliers face to face and, when you’re new to the wedding world, wedding fairs can be enlightening, packed full of inspiration and you’ll hopefully come away with lots of ideas and even a confirmed supplier or two. Another reason to visit wedding fairs, particularly those hosted at your chosen wedding venue, is that you often get to see spaces dressed for weddings. This can be incredibly helpful as you can see what works well at your venue and you’ll be able to meet the suppliers who know how to make the best of the space too. Use the opportunity to speak to wedding pros who know your venue inside out – this is your chance to ask those allimportant questions! Wedding fairs can also help you make savings because some suppliers will offer discounts if you book them there and then or will offer discount codes for you to use at a later date. To make the most of these offers, do your research before you go and find out which suppliers will be there, researching them online ahead of your visit so you’ll know beforehand whether they suit your style and your budget. Then, if there are discounts on offer on the day, you can make the most of them knowing that the supplier in question is the right for you and your wedding. So, when there’s so much to see at wedding fairs, how do you get the most out of them? Here are my top tips:

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•

Know what you want to get from each fair you visit. Be clear about your reasons for attending each fair. Are you going to get inspiration, to see your venue again or to seriously look for suppliers? What suppliers are you looking for and what is your budget? • Visit a range of fairs from smaller, local fairs to larger, regional or national events. Also, look out for fairs that best suit your style of wedding. There are now lots of events that suit all styles of wedding so if you’re planning a boho day for example, look for a fair that’s right for you. • Be comfortable! Wedding fairs, especially the larger shows, will mean a lot of walking and sometimes a venture outdoors too. Also, take a bottle of water as fairs can get hot and dehydration is no fun at all. • Make sure that you know all the logistical details in advance. Double check the venue, opening times and the entrance info too. Some fairs are free to enter but require you to register online before you attend, others need you to buy tickets in advance or on the door whilst others are completely free. • Do your research before you go. Find out which suppliers will be there and times for any catwalk shows, workshops or other events and then make sure that you arrive with time to spare. • Think about who you’re going to take with you. Do you want to go with your partner, your parents or your bridesmaids? This ultimately depends on what you’re hoping to find – if you’re booking major suppliers, take

your partner. If you’re looking for bridal accessories, hair and makeup artists or similar, invite your girlfriends. • Don’t be pressured into booking or buying. Of course, wedding suppliers attend fairs to get business but don’t be pressured into booking or buying anything, particularly things that you’ve not included in your budget. Suddenly deciding that you want fireworks because you find a great company at a wedding fair is going to affect your entire wedding budget so think before you commit!

Lastly, have fun! Remember that you’re attending wedding fairs because you’re getting married so make the most of every minute. Stop for a coffee (or obligatory glass of fizz!) after you’ve been to the fair, use the time to talk about your wedding and get ahead with planning your amazing day. Katrina Otter is a Cambridgeshire based wedding planner and event organiser with over 10 years experience. Find out how she could help you plan your wedding day at www.katrinaotterweddings.co.uk

• If you’re not ready to buy or need to time to digest things, leave your details with the suppliers in question. Most will email out after the event (sometimes with special offers) and you can always stay in touch with them too.

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2019 01 East Life Twilight Wedding QP.qxp_107mm h x 71mm w 03/01/2019 15:14 Page 1

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Specialising in floral designs for every occasion, traditional or contemporary. Weddings, Funerals & special occasions, unique gifts, balloons, chocolates, fruit, hampers and plants Created and presented by our friendly, expert team of florists

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

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The Castle has its own caterers who provide a professional service offering a wide selection of menus and an extensive wine list.

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

Memories are made of this … Unexpected. Understated. Unique. Unpretentious. Just some of the words our delighted couples have used when describing their South Farm wedding.

Image © www.sarahelliottphotography.co.uk

From your very first visit to the end of your special day, we take pride in guiding you through the perfect wedding; unobtrusively efficient, always approachable, and entirely focused on making your dream a reality.

South Farm: Distinctly Different weddings Shingay-cum-Wendy Royston Cambridgeshire SG8 OHR 01223 207581

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ONE OF HERTFORDSHIRE’S One Of Hertfordshire’s Premier Wedding Venues PREMIER WEDDING VENUES ... where the present unite ... where thepast past and and present unite

a choice of historic, traditional and contemporary surroundings, a range of wonderful rooms accommodating 10 to 200 guests, picturesque riverside location, beautiful gardens & superb catering

A choice of historic, traditional and

contemporary surroundings, a range of wonderful rooms accommodating 10 to 200 guests, picturesque riverside location, beautiful gardens & superb catering.

High Street, Ware, Hertfordshire SG12 9AL Tel: 01920 460316 www.warepriory.co.uk @warepriory warepriory

Bridal Carriages of Northamptonshire John & Amanda Sarrington invite you to visit them in Thrapston in order to view their fantastic 10 car fleet of Rolls Royce, Jaguar and Daimler wedding cars which could whisk you off on your way of dreams. An appointment is necessary to allow them to give you their best attention. Free colour brochure available on request. Covering Northamptonshire, Stamford, Peterborough, Huntingdon & Surrounding towns & villages.

For further information or to arrange a viewing kindly call John or Amanda Sarrington on 01832 735162 or 0778 777 0971

Come and visit our showroom in Thrapston www.bridalcarriages.co.uk

HUNTINGDON TOWN HALL The beautifully restored Grade II* Listed Georgian Town Hall is situated on the historic Market Square in Huntingdon. The building boasts two renovated Court Rooms to provide a unique and intimate setting for up to 60 guests. For larger ceremonies and receptions, the Assembly Hall and Council Chamber provide elegant spaces for parties of up to 120. The Town Hall is available for viewing via appointment. Should you wish to visit, please contact Hayley Burns on 01480 410380 or email hayley.burns@huntingdontown.gov.uk

For more information on Huntingdon Town Hall weddings, visit www.huntingdontownweddings.co.uk

Bespoke wedding receptions in a unique and exclusive location in North Norfolk www.manningtonestate.co.uk admin@walpoleestate.co.uk 01263 584175

Dates for your diary Find the best suppliers for your big day at a regional wedding fair or exhibition

The Cambridge Wedding Fair, 10 February

Signature Wedding Show, 17 February

Anstey Hall Courtyard, Maris Lane, Cambridge, CB2 9LN Browse local suppliers and enjoy a fashion show at 12.30pm and 2.30pm, showcasing the latest trends in bridal wear. Open from 11am - 3.30pm.

The Brentwood Centre, Doddinghurst Road, Brentwood, Essex CM15 9NN There will be a huge number of wedding specialists on hand to answer all your questions. Free entry. Open 11am-4pm.

The Wedding Fayre at Trinity Park, 10 February

Swynford Manor Wedding Show, 17 February

Trinity Park, Felixstowe Road, Ipswich, Suffolk A popular fayre with up to 75 suppliers.

London Road, Six Mile Bottom, Newmarket CB8 0UE Free entry and goody bag for all couples getting married.

East of England Valentineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Wedding Show, 10 February

Marston Vale Wedding Fair, 21 February

East of England Showground, Oundle Road, Alwalton, Peterborough PE2 6XE Packed with inspiration from wedding professionals, goody bags for the first 250 brides and a complimentary glass of bubbly for all visitors. Open 10.30am-3pm.

Wedding Spectacular at Knebworth Barns, 17 February Knebworth House, Knebworth, Hertfordshire SG1 2AX A chance to view the historic venue and browse up to 50 local suppliers. Fashion Shows at 12.30pm and 2.30pm. Free entry. Open 11am-4pm.

Forest Centre, Station Road, Marston Moretaine, MK43 0PS An opportunity to see the rooms dressed for your ceremony and wedding breakfast, and to meet some fabulous local suppliers. Book in advance to receive a free goodie bag on arrival. Open 6.30pm-9pm. Free entry.

The Suffolk Wedding Show, 24 February Wherstead Park, Wherstead, Ipswich, IP9 2BJ One of the largest shows in the Ipswich area with over 65 suppliers. Free parking, wedding magazine and glass of bubbly.

The Colchester Wedding Fair, 17 March Colchester Town Hall, High Street, Colchester, CO1 1PJ View the venue and meet local suppliers. Free entry. Open 11am-3pm.

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A Royal Affair

Hylands Estate Banqueting Room

Magical venues fit for a prince and princess

eghan Markle has a lot to answer for…not only has she influenced women’s fashion but since saying “I do” to Prince Harry, the Markle sparkle has had a major impact on the wedding industry. From dresses and flowers to ceremonies and venues, brides-to-be want to feel like royalty, and why not, it’s your wedding day after all. If you’re dreaming of marrying your own Prince Charming in a royal fairy tale setting this year, we’ve selected the most beautiful venues in the region fit for a princess. Mannington Hall, Norfolk If you’re looking for a gorgeous backdrop to your wedding, look no further than Mannington Hall. Owned by Lord and Lady Walpole, the hall and gardens offer the perfect surroundings for a beautiful wedding. Both large and small parties are catered for, and couples can choose from a marquee or the rose tearooms for their reception. www.manningtongardens.co.uk

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Hylands Estate, Essex Grand, beautiful and surrounded by landscaped parkland, Hylands Estate is perfect for adding a touch of regal elegance to your big day. The interiors are lavishly designed with a neo baroque style with French marble fireplace and floor to ceiling windows. Brides can make a grand entrance on a horse drawn carriage along the sweeping driveway. Michelle Marwood, assistant manager of the wedding venue, said: “Whilst we see a wide range of couples and ceremonies at Hylands Estate, ever since Meghan and Harry tied the knot, we have noticed that couples have become more empowered to break with tradition. Taking inspiration from Meghan walking herself down the aisle, we are now meeting with brides-to-be who want to do their own thing, and are talking about their mum, sister or friends walking them down the aisle.” www.hylandsestateweddings.co.uk.

Hertford Castle, Hertfordshire It doesn’t need to cost a fortune to have a royal wedding. If you want a regal venue without the price tag opt for the beautiful Grade I listed, mid-15th century Hertford Castle. The venue offers a variety of packages to suit all budgets and even allows guests to supply their own alcohol to save on costs. www.hertfordcastle.co.uk

Hylands Estate

Hedingham Castle

Hengrave Hall, Suffolk If you have as many friends as the Duke and Duchess, the impressive Tudor mansion accommodates wedding parties of up to 140 guests. Built in 1525, the property boasts an idyllic chapel, banqueting hall, gallery, library, courtyard and more. Its grand halls and chambers will have you feeling like a queen. It also has 27 bedrooms on-site so your guests are well looked after too! www.hengravehall.com

Ware Priory, Hertfordshire Period features are great for adding a regal vibe to your big day, and the architecture at Ware Priory will have you falling in love all over again. The Priory Hall features gothic stone arches, stained glass windows and has the remnants of a Victorian Trompe-lâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;oeil. Brides can make a grand entrance through a gorgeous Jacobean front door. For a more intimate ceremony, couples can get married at the Hadsley Room, which features late-medieval roof beams and crown post roof. The room includes a 14th century refectory table, which is believed to be a survivor from the original friary. www.warepriory.co.uk/weddings

Hedingham Castle, Essex What could be more romantic than getting married in your very own castle? The interiors are as grand and historic as you can imagine and the surrounding gardens and water features make for a magical back drop. www.hedinghamcastle.co.uk

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Mother of the Bride/Groom Special Occasion Wear Evening & Cocktail Prom Dresses Cruise Wear Plus Size

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Glamorous Gowns for 2019 W

edding season is upon us and of course we’re dying to see what this year’s brides will be wearing. We caught up with couture designer Terry Fox who is in the know! I love the driving force that a new year brings. In the bridal world, I am witnessing some of the biggest changes in trends that I have seen for a long time. And you probably won’t be surprised to hear that it’s all down to the influence of those young, chic royals… There is an undeniable move towards a clean, tailored cut, with a minimal aesthetic. What I love about this is that it shouts couture! The beauty is in the richness and purity of those stunning, high quality fabrics like Mikado for structure, triple organza for ethereal body, and heavy silk crepe for drape and controlled movement. Also with these royal gowns, there is the execution of the fine construction work – there is literally nowhere to hide and all seams are revealed. The cut of any dress is the true sign of wonderful craftsmanship. An immaculate style-line designed to perfection are the skills that set those couture designers above the rest. Everyday fashion styles are also finding their way onto the ivory catwalk… high necklines, turtle, bateau and jewel necks, co-ordinated with long sleeves of all descriptions. Fine fit, gathered and relaxed into long and short buttondown cuffs.

Terry Fox is a couture designer, who trained with Zandra Rhodes and the Emmanuels. She now runs a series of workshops to train budding seamstresses. Details can be found at www.terryfox.co.uk

Oh! What a breath of fresh air – lace is on its way out! Although lace cut work and what I call ‘story-telling’ are all created for those who love detail. The beauty of this is the application – textiles creating art. Look out for halternecks, too. Another Meghan Markle-effect piece, along with statement veils, capes and detachable trains, all of which add to the regal glamour and drama. These balance out beautifully with a slimmer silhouette. Don’t worry if you’re still wowed by the traditional wedding dress shape – the princess dress is going nowhere fast! From the traditional ballgown style to full, circular skirts with nipped in waistlines and plunging necklines – there’s a gown out there for you, whatever your style choice. The golden glamour of the 1950s is also set to make a return – retro dresses with and chic, contemporary, minimalist twist. This is a wonderful year to get married!

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01234 712200 - www.dusktdawn.co.uk

NOW IN STORE FOR 2019 Latest trends and styles of Mother of Bride outfits and a large selection of Bridesmaid dresses... Sizes start from 8 to 24 come and get styled!!! 1st Floor Dagnall House, Stanley Court, Olney, Buckinghamshire, MK46 5NH

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Trio’s Wedding & Event Catering

Whatever style or size of Event you have in mind Trio’s can help. Natalie & her team offer a personal and tailor made service ensuring your event, however large or small runs smoothly. Let us inspire you with our diverse range of Wedding, Buffet & Street Food Menu catering from formal to informal gatherings. Breakfasts can also be catered for to suit your venue & budget. If you are looking for a friendly but professional service with a high degree of flexibility then look no further. Contact us on 01508 522039 or email: tasty@trioscatering.co.uk New for 2018 - Mobile Horse Box Bar, Wood Fired Pizza Oven & Paella Pans for outdoor & corporate Events.

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METHING O S R O F K C STU WEEK? TO DO THIS Visit us www.eastlife.co.uk for the latest events in your area.

Let them eat cake! 2019’s biggest trends in wedding cakes

he most delicious part of wedding planning - choosing your cake! Once an element of the wedding day that was all about tradition, today we’re seeing more couples use their wedding cake as a style statement, a wowworthy addition to your decor. Each year, wedding cakes seem to be getting even prettier and couples are choosing awe-inspiring designs that really bring something to the table, to be gazed at and fussed over by their guests. Weddingly, Hertfordshire’s fastest growing online wedding resource, teamed up with Hitchin-based wedding cake maker and expert, Claire Festa from At Your Wish (atyourwishcakes.co.uk) to share the most beautiful upcoming trends in wedding cakes for 2019.

1. Marble The luxury look that’s been all over our Instagram feeds is here to stay for 2019. Feminine but sophisticated and a little bit quirky, the marble finish is achieved by kneading together different shades of icing. Presented with a crisp, smooth finish, we especially love to see this trend interspersed with tiers in different textures, colours and finishes to create something truly glorious. Samie Lee Photography www.samieleephotography.com

Anthony Chok: www.anthonychokphotography.com

traditionally decorated with white royal icing and then adorned with intricate florals, dramatically cascading down each layer. A stunning and contemporary twist with a touch of grandeur.

3. The Alternative Wedding Cake Finally, the non-cake wedding cake. More and more, couples are choosing to ditch the usual sponge and icing in favour for a sweet treat that is more personal to their tastes and style. From donut walls to tiers of cheese or sweet, warm and delicious pies - whatever dessert is your guilty pleasure, why not have it on your wedding day? Our personal favourite is the macaroon tower. So elegant, so luxurious, add a Parisian touch to your wedding day.

2. Cascading Florals We see the traditional wedding cake make a comeback, but this time with a twist, for one of 2019’s biggest trends. Whilst we haven’t seen much of the conventional white tiered wedding cake for quite some time, this year expect to see it bigger and more beautiful than ever before. Get ready for six or seven tiers that have been

Weddingly is a smart digital product that helps couples navigate the huge task of preparing for their wedding day. It is home to a cultivated community of exceptional wedding vendors, each promoting their crafts and services. Weddingly connects couples and vendors with style and ease. The new platform for the stylish millennial will be launching soon - so watch this space! weareweddingly.com

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Call for a Quotation Moving can often be a complex and daunting prospect. With 40 years’ experience in the removals business, Actual Removal Company make this an easy, stress free transition into your new home or business premises. Our fully trained staff will assess each situation from the quote to the move itself and offer a first class, bespoke service and advice where needed. We offer a wide range of additional services to ensure that all aspects are addressed to the highest standard leaving you free to concentrate on other aspects of your move. Whether it’s a local, nationwide home or office move, we here at Actual will ensure that your every need is catered for. • • • •

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Martin Lewis Talks...

Consumer

5 ways to drive down the cost of motoring

etrol prices are up, car insurance prices are up, breakdown costs are up – but don’t let it get you down. There are many ways to slash the cost of motoring. As we don’t get an annual bill for our car, the cost just comes in dribs and drabs, few people focus on it – even though that bill would likely be £1,000s. This means the savings can be huge. The drastic action is to do what I’ve done, and get rid of your car altogether. Though to be fair, for me that’s because I try and walk everywhere as I’m addicted to hitting my 20,000 steps a day target. So let me show you five easy ways to put the brakes on your vehicular costs.

1) Don’t overpay on breakdown cover Roadside recovery policies are especially important right now at the coldest point of year. Back-up in case your car fails is important, especially if you rely on it for work or the kids. Most people stick with the big names, but if you’re willing to shift away from them you can make large savings. A year of cover at www.autoaidbreakdown. co.uk costs £48 - not much more than the basic policies with the big firms - and it includes home start and onward travel and includes cover for you and your spouse (including civil partners) at no extra cost. Call-out times are said to be roughly similar too. If you are with the big firms, and want to stay that way, then the golden rule when it comes to renewal is to haggle. The success rates of those who try are incredible, in my most recent poll on it 87% of www.rac.co.uk and 90% of www.theaa.com customers who tried succeed. Alternatively if you just want a basic AA or RAC policy, new customers buying through cashback sites www.topcashback.co.uk or www.Quidco.com can effectively reduce the price to as little as £20 a year after cashback (it changes daily). So if you were to alternate AA one year and the RAC next, you can play this out.

2) Find the cheapest fuel To find the cheapest petrol and diesel near you in seconds, use the nifty tool on www.petrolprices.com. Create a free account, enter your postcode and select how far you’re willing to travel to a forecourt (5, 10 or 25 miles) - the difference between best and worst can be huge. It’s also worth checking whether supermarkets are giving out discounts if you spend over a certain amount.

3) Drive efficiently and save How you drive is the biggest single factor affecting your fuel costs, and in extreme cases people find they can save 30% when they change their driving habits. • Accelerate gradually without over-revving (think of the accelerator as a money pump) • Change up a gear earlier than feels natural, this keeps the revs and the cost down • Think about your road position, so you can keep moving rather than stopping and starting. • Slow naturally where safe instead of hitting the brakes (braking late is just burning money you’ve spent to make your car accelerate)

4) Free Halfords winter car check Halfords.com is offering a free ‘£15’ winter car check, which includes checks to your battery, bulbs, wiper blades, oil and screen wash levels. There’s no need to book in advance, though you can do so online if you want, and the check should take about 15 minutes. There is no obligation to buy anything, but be prepared that staff might try to upsell to you. The winter car check is on until spring. 5) Two or more cars at home? Check multi-car Never auto renew car insurance, especially now as prices could be rising. Instead my normal solution is check you’ve the right cover (don’t assume third party is cheaper), and search by combining the right comparison sites – see my full guide at www.moneysavingexpert. com/carinsurance You should also add in www.directline. com and www.aviva.co.uk which the comparison sites don’t include. Martin Lewis is the Founder and Chair of MoneySavingExpert.com. To join the 13 million people who get his free Money Tips weekly email, go to www.moneysavingexpert.com/latesttip

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BRING AN OLD CONSERVATORY Back to Life Here Chris Whitehall of ‘Projects 4 Roofing’ speaks about the possibilities of transforming your old conservatory to an all year round living space. Chris Whitehall of Projects 4 Roofing talks about the possibilities for changing a conservatory into an all year round living space. These days a conservatory can become much more than a room to relax in occasionally and enjoy views over the garden. There are new ways to make a conservatory an all year round living space which keeps the benefits of a conservatory whilst making it a usable office area, dining space, playroom or even a cosy evening snug. Traditional conservatories are normally at least 75 per cent glass and so can be

insulation of the room. Conservatory roof conversion: A conservatory roof conversion is the replacement of a glass or uPVC roof with a solid structure. The whole roof is removed and is followed by the construction of a lightweight aluminium frame retaining the original doors, windows, walls and frame. A new high performance insulated roof is installed in a matter of a few days. The finished room has an insulated plastered ceiling, into which can be installed spotlights. It’s also possible to have roof light windows. The exterior roof

“There are new ways to make a conservatory an all year round living space...” very cold at some times of year, whilst being too hot in the summer months. Some people experiment with blinds or special coatings on the windows to try to minimise the temperature changes, and these do help. However, a better option is available which significantly improves the

is covered in lightweight synthetic slates or tiles that come in a wide range of colours and finishes. What are the benefits? The main benefit is thermal efficiency, which means there will no longer be

large fluctuations in temperature in the conservatory. It will be comfortable on hot days and easy to heat in winter. A solid roof also cuts down significantly on sun glare and furniture fading, removing the need for blinds. The new roof also creates new design options: you can create an open plan look by removing the interior conservatory doors. That’s great for making a bigger entertaining or dining space and improving the flow of the house. For more information about a conservatory roof conversion, call 01638 507730 or visit www.projects4roofing.co.uk Questions to ask before buying a conservatory conversion: � Is my conservatory structure sound? � How will I know if the finished roof meets building regulations? (Insist on a pass certificate from the local authority for the whole new room). � What guarantees are offered on the new roof? � How will the new roof be ventilated to prevent condensation?

Motoring

VOLVO

XC60 AWD

Written by Sue Cooke - Twitter @cookecars

ebruary is the month for romance and it seems as if the motoring public have fallen in love with SUVs. Driving around this week, very comfortably, in the Volvo XC60 road test car, I was struck by the amount of fellow Sports Utility Vehicle drivers there are on the road. And while currently my own car is a hatchback, when I buy a new car, it will be an SUV…and I am not alone. One major manufacturer says that by 2025, 50 percent of its cars sold throughout the world will probably be an SUV. In 2007 these sometimes off roaders, represented just 8.5% of market share. In 2017 the market share was 29.3%. With a size to fit all, Volvo offers the XC40, XC60 and the largest XC90 and with the surety of being able to drive through some water and with a decent amount of off-road capability, the SUV has won our hearts. Gone are the days of the boxy van shape. The Volvo XC60 is a stylish contender. Three designers, Thomas Ingenlath, Robin Page and Maximilian Missoni worked closely together to develop an award-winning Scandinavian design. Volvo says they will now focus on future design opportunities which will be created by the company’s move towards electrified and ultimately autonomous cars. And this is the other big change - the move from fossil fuels. The UK Government vows to ban new sales of all purely petrol and diesel driven vehicles by 2040. So, what’s the option – hydrogen, electricity or a compromise, the hybrid? Volvo has recently launched the twin engine plug-in hybrid which combines a powerful petrol engine with a battery-powered electric motor. This gives the owner a virtually silent, zero emission city car, an astonishingly fast performance car or a reassuring all wheel drive car, all at the touch of a button.

FACTS AT A G L A N C E MODEL: Volvo XC60 AWD Inscription Pro Auto PRICE: £59,770 otr ENGINE: T8 Twin Engine PERFORMANCE: 0-62mph in 4.9 seconds and on to a top speed of 140 mph CO2 EMISSIONS: 49g/km COMBINED FUEL CONSUMPTION: 134.58mpg

Owners can fast charge the battery in 2.5 hours. Full charging takes between 3.5 hours (at 10 amps) and 6 hours (at 6 amps). There is a choice of driving modes, Pure, Hybrid, Power or AWD. During my week of road testing I used all four, individually, which are simple to select. The quality interior is gorgeous with a huge 9-inch touchscreen displaying radio, nav and even the weather. It is easy to change the climate in the cabin or the music by pressing a voice activation button on the steering wheel. I loved my week in Volvo’s premium car and felt very safe with the ground-breaking technology which can help prevent collisions. City Safety, ‘Run off road’ mitigation, automatic braking if sensors detect that you have turned in front of an oncoming vehicle at junctions as well as automatic headlight dip are all useful features. My favourite is the £800, 360-degree surround view parking camera which includes park assist pilot for automatic parallel and 90-degree parking. The automotive world may be treading uncertain roads but in this month of peace, love and harmony, I do hope that the Volvo XC60 hybrid is an SUV that will stay around for a long time.

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CELEBRATING 40 YEARS UNDER THE SAME NAME AND OWNERS

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Home & Garden

Home Improvements T

here are few improvements that can make a difference to the home as much as a conservatory. Easy to build and cheaper than an extension, conservatories are perfect for brightening up the home, creating space and adding value. Looming Brexit has many of us uncertain as to whether put our house on the market, but if you’re in need of some extra space, a conservatory can be a fantastic quick fix solution. Thirty years ago, a conservatory was considered an extra room plonked onto the back of the house, scorching in summer and an igloo in winter but times have changed. As with the rest of the home, the conservatory concept has evolved to make a style statement of its own. Now purpose built and a year round living space, a conservatory can add significant value to the home if designed well.

who will be using the room: young children, adults, pets etc. The more information the homeowner can feed to the designer the better the outcome will be.” Location is vital when building a conservatory. Ultimately, you want the new space to be used year round. It is advised that if you have a choice of options, the conservatory should be constructed on the south facing outer wall to attract more sunshine. “Ventilation is a crucial consideration for keeping a conservatory cool, as it is essential that air is able to flow through the building and that colder air can be drawn into the extension,” adds James. “Consider the use of either roof vents, extractor fans, ceiling fans or air conditioning.”

Like many home updates, a conservatory shouldn’t be built in haste. Take time to carefully plan the addition and choose a style that works with your home’s aesthetics and family’s needs. James Upton, managing director at Westbury Garden Rooms, an Essex based, designer and manufacturer of bespoke, handmade conservatories and other garden rooms, said: “Have a clear idea of the purpose of the conservatory and what activities will take place in the room and at what times of the day. It is key to consider

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We are passionate about wood and since our launch ten years ago, our suite of products has lead the market in their breadth of application, uniqueness of design, quality of construction and performance in use. The installation of well-made, well-specified timber windows and doors can really enhance the beauty and value of your home and we look forward to working with you on your exciting project!

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If you’re looking for a bolder design, follow the emerging trend of adding an orangery or garden room. “Over the past three decades, the company has seen many changes in consumer trends, having started out in an era when the conservatory was de rigueur, through to garden rooms and latterly the orangery is the company’s most sought-after extension type, with a roof lantern as the strong focal point,” explained James. As a result the company has phased in more classically inspired designs. “An orangery is a stunning addition to any home and whilst their use may have changed over time, their distinguishing features never fail to deliver the wow factor that they once did over four centuries ago,” he adds. “Orangeries and garden room extensions create amazing new open spaces with an abundance of light, opening the door to a myriad of design possibilities. “We are currently seeing more of our customers opting for black shades of paint for the outside joinery of their glazed extension in order to really make a statement. As a black painted exterior gives a dynamic and dramatic appearance, ensuring the property stands proud without the need for any extravagant accessories or finishing touches. In the broad sunlight, even the deepest shades of black will provide a warm tone of colour, which seems to fade into a deeper colour when clouds cast over it.” Whether it be a conservatory, orangery or garden room, each addition can make a huge improvement to your home as well as adding value!

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The charity Peterborough Environment City Trust (PECT) can help to cut your energy costs and household carbon footprint this winter with a free advice service

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What is on offer? • A FREE home energy advice visit with a goodie bag • Impartial advice in choosing the best energy tariff • Information on the national £140 Warm Home Discount • Help to make your home as warm and healthy as possible

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The Say hello to Wendy Howes, our gardening columnist, who will be revealing the trials and tribulations of her garden restoration project every month…

Camellia japonica Elegans

ebruary is a bit of a marmite month; you either love it or loathe it. On one side there is the feeling that the winter will never end, yet pop on your positive hat and we’re actually through the worst of it. Or let’s hope we are … Helleborus niger

vibrant leaves giving the plants a new lease of life once it has finished flowering.

There are glimmers of hope in the garden. Those tiny little snowdrop bulbs I painstakingly planted back in the autumn are now rewarding my efforts, with their bright white heads dancing in the breeze. As the Betula utilis Jaquemontii they have been planted beneath are too young to have developed their trademark silver bark, the snowdrops are a welcome beacon; the bare branches of the ‘glade’ are somewhat lost against the green grass for now. I also salvaged a few Helleborous from one of the borders we were closing down. They were being suffocated by the heavy clay and perked up no end once transferred to a position under one of our willow trees, an area which had been freshly dug over with plenty of organic matter added. Having trimmed their foliage back to give the roots the maximum chance of settling in, they are now happily flowering. Helleborous niger is particularly striking and co-ordinates well with snowdrops. As a little tip, now is a good time to trim back last year’s foliage so you can showcase the flowers. This will also encourage new,

If your garden is lacking a bit of late winter/early spring colour, consider adding an evergreen Camelia japonica ‘Elegans’. This stunning, bright pink camellia is guaranteed to brighten up even the bleakest of days. In a sheltered spot, the shiny deep green foliage creates a fabulous backdrop for herbaceous planting later in the season. Alternatively, if you have a tired old fence or wall that is crying out for a climber, why not head to your local garden centre for a Jasminum nudiflorum, more commonly referred to as Winter Jasmine. Adorned with bright yellow flowers, it’s a real show-stopper at this time of year.

Read more on Wendy’s blog at www.wendyswholeworld.com

Jasminum nudiflorum

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Property

Rebuild, Remodel, Research! I

t’s easy to get carried away when you start to plan a home improvement project. With the help of Pinterest, Instagram and home interior adverts, we quite often find ourselves lusting over dream extensions, perfect kitchens and dreamy bathrooms. However, a large scale home project takes time to plan and manage and shouldn’t be done in haste.

According to new research by the Federation of Master Builders (FMB), the largest trade association in the UK construction industry, homeowners must plan up to seven months ahead if they want a successful home improvement project. After all you want a space to be enjoyed once complete and ultimately add value to your home, there’s no fun in spending more time and money fixing snags. Existing research from the FMB revealed that consumers should expect to wait at least four for a quality builder to be available. However, the FMB’s latest research reveals that when this notice period is combined with the length of time various home improvement projects take to complete, homeowners will have to wait a total of: • Seven months for an extension • Six and a half months for a loft conversion • Five months to paint the entire interior of your home • Five months for a new bathroom • Five months for a new kitchen • Five months to convert part of a master bedroom into an en-suite • Five months to convert a cupboard under-the-stairs into a downstairs toilet • Just under five months to remove an internal wall to create an open plan kitchen/diner.

Brian Berry, chief executive of the FMB (www.fmb.org.uk) said: “A successful building project requires careful planning and our research gives clear guidance to consumers on likely timelines. Not only do homeowners need to consider how long a project takes to complete, they also need to remember how long they should expect to wait for a quality builder to be available to get going on their project. If homeowners want to work with a good builder, they should be expecting to wait at least four months and as a general rule, the larger the project, the longer the wait. When looking to appoint a builder, alarm bells should ring if they say they can start next week. Experienced and professional building firms are booked up far in advance and it’s always worth waiting for these firms if you want a stress-free experience and a quality finish.” Berry continued: “To bring this to life, if homeowners want a new extension fully completed in time for Christmas 2019, they should be contacting builders for quotes by May at the very latest. If you want your new kitchen installed by the start of the summer, you should be getting in touch with builders now. We’re urging homeowners who are keen to crack on with their renovation project to start getting in touch with prospective builders as soon as possible.” He concluded: “Refurbishment projects don’t come cheap and it’s worth protecting yourself as much as possible to ensure a positive experience. Ask for references from the builder’s previous clients and if possible, speak to them directly about the builder. Furthermore, always use a written contract and never pay for the whole project up-front. If a builder is reluctant to use a contract, and demands a disproportionate amount of money up-front, alarm bells should sound. Professional building firms do not work in this way. In the longer term, we need to end the cowboy builders’ reign of terror once and for all!”

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Sat Feb 23, The Stables, Milton Keynes Fri March 29, Princes Theatre, Clacton Sun Sept 1, Southend Theatre, Southend on Sea Fri Sept 6, Chelmsford Civic Theatre, Chelmsford Sun Sept 29, The Apex, Bury St Edmunds GO NOW! The Music of The Moody Blues is an opportunity for fans to experience this timeless music live, in a tribute to... The Greatest Classic Rock Band of a Generation – recently inducted into The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame

In this show, all the classic hits are celebrated, including Nights in White Satin, Go Now, Tuesday Afternoon, Legend of a Mind (Timothy Leary’s), I Know You’re Out There Somewhere, Question, Isn’t Life Strange plus Forever Autumn and a show-stealing rendition of Eve of the War from Jeff Wayne’s The War of the Worlds.

For all booking enquiries: Gordy Marshall

Legend of a Band Productions gordy@legendofabandproductions.com www.gonowmusic.com

/gonowmusic

www.legendofaband.com

Arts

The Arts Column Written by Collette Hoefkens, proprietor at Norton Way Gallery and an artist in her own right.

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

pproaching the coldest days of the season, we all need to remember to recharge and feed the soul. If your quest for doing so takes you near the busy market town of Hitchin, be sure to visit the tucked away treasures of West Alley! On 2 February, The Art Nest will be reopening its doors after its winter break.

Amongst the wonderful array of paintings, sculpture and stained glass, you will find a collection of beautiful new works from the well-loved Hertfordshire artist, Krysia D Michna-Nowak. As well as being represented by major galleries across the country, Krysia enjoys a regular appearance at this lovely, independent, original art gallery, situated in her home county. Born to Polish parents, Krysia’s work is influenced by Polish culture, folklore, fairy tales, the circus and theatre. Exotic, exciting and moving, each painting beholds a narrative of colour, line and smooth luxurious texture. This is an artist like no other but there are strong reminiscences of Picasso, Matisse and Chagall in her work. Like the great pioneers, she too is driven to experiment and mix her media. Combining original printmaking, drawing and painting, the results possess immense originality and texture. Each piece usually starts life from using the mono print process. Krysia begins by painting, drawing and markmaking onto a flat glass plate, outlining her subject. Placing and pressing a sheet of paper on top of the plate she then carefully lifts the paper away from it. The marks originally painted and drawn onto the glass are thereby transferred to the paper. Thus, she has “pulled” the print!

Blue Angel by Krysia D Michna-Nowak

The Tie by Krysia D Michna-Nowak

Krysia uses this print as the starting point, guide and inspiration for a painting. However, sometimes the print is allowed to dry and she will work and paint directly upon it. When this happens, the serendipity and chance of the initial printmaking is crucial to the whole creative process. The shape and texture of the strokes created are absolutely integral to the finished piece and carry huge importance. Defined, elegant edges and strong “orchestrated” areas of colour integrate, creating brooding portraits and humorous studies. Focusing on portraiture, both the human and feline kind, Krysia prefers to use Japanese matt acrylics. With these beautifully chalky and opaque paints, she succeeds in portraying the emotion of her subjects. The eyes, elegant lines and velvety surfaces, powerfully project mood and feeling and with their pensive gaze, human beauties and feline stars, command both our attention and compassion. They compel us to contemplate their meaning and the symbolism of their given title. This work is assertive, sensitive and tantalizingly complex. Krysia D Michna-Nowak The Art Nest, reopening February 2019 4-5 West Alley, Hitchin, Hertfordshire, SG5 1EG Tel: 01462 454 019 www.theartnest.com

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The Musical Theatre Course presents

SAT 9 FEB: 2PM SUN 10 FEB: 2PM 12-14 FEB AT 7.30PM

THOROUGHLY

MODERN

MILLIE MODERN

Book by RICHARD MORRIS and DICK SCANLAN New Music by JEANINE TESORI New Lyrics by DICK SCANLAN

MILLIE MILLIE THOROUGHLY

MODERN

Original Story and Screenplay by RICHARD MORRIS for the UNIVERSAL PICTURES FILM

Originally Produced for Broadway by Michael Leavitt Fox Theatricals Hal Luftig Stewart F. Lane James L. Nederlander Independent Presenters Network L.Mages/M.Glick Berinstein/Manocherian/ Dramatic Forces John York Noble and Whoopi Goldberg

Book by RICHARD MORRIS andRICHARD DICK SCANLAN Markova Theatre, Tring Park School HP23 5LX Book by MORRIS and DICK SCANLAN New Music by JEANINE TESORI TICKETS: £21 & £16 (concessions) New Music by JEANINE TESORI New Lyrics by DICK SCANLAN Available online at www.tringpark.com/boxoffice or Tel. 01442 821516

New Lyrics by DICK SCANLAN

Original Story and Screenplay by RICHARD MORRIS for the UNIVERSAL PICTURES FILM

This amateur production is presented by arrangement with Music Theatre International (Europe) All authorised performance materials are also supplied by MTI Europe www.mtishows.co.uk

Original Story and Screenplay byThisRICHARD MORRIS amateur production is presented by arrangement with Music Theatre International (Europe) All authorised performance materials are also supplied for the UNIVERSAL PICTURES FILMby MTI Europe www.mtishows.co.uk

Markova Theatre, Tring Park School 5LX by Michael Leavitt Fox Theatricals Hal Luftig Stewart F. Lane Originally Produced forHP23 Broadway

James&L.£16 Nederlander Independent Presenters Network L.Mages/M.Glick Berinstein/Manocherian/ TICKETS: £21 (concessions)

York Noble and Whoopi Goldberg Available online at www.tringpark.com/boxoffDramatic ice or Tel.Forces 01442John 821516 This amateur production is presented by arrangement with Music Theatre International (Europe) All authorised performance materials are also supplied by MTI Europe www.mtishows.co.uk

Markova Theatre, Tring Park School HP23 5LX

WOMAN OF STEEL:

retrospective of the life TICKETS: £21 & £16A(concessions)

Available online at www.tringpark.com/boxoffice or Tel. 01442 821516

and work of Ros Newman 19th February – 30th March 2019

This amateur production is presented by arrangement with Music Theatre International (Europe) All authorised performance materials are also supplied by MTI Europe www.mtishows.co.uk

A Norwich-based sculptor will be celebrating her 80th birthday with a solo retrospective exhibition at the Fairhurst Gallery in Norwich. Ros Newman, who has lived in Norwich for more than 40 years, has recently dismantled her studio and has been working with the gallery to catalogue her works for this insightful exhibition.

Websdales Court, Bedford Street, Norwich, NR2 1AR | 01603 614214 enquiries@fairhurstgallery.co.uk | Open Tuesday - Saturday, 9.30 - 5.30

Arts News for February Art installation by acclaimed artist Liz West comes to Hertfordshire UHArts is bringing Liz West’s stunning site-specific installation ‘Our Colour Reflection’ to St Albans Museum + Gallery from 6 February to 19 March. With hundreds of mirrors made of coloured acrylic, the installation will reflect light and project colour into the historic interior of the Assembly Room. The installation creates a conversation between the viewer and the space using more than 700 mirrors of different colours and sizes, set at various heights on the floor. Reflecting its surroundings

and bathing the room in colour, the installation is playful and engaging, elegant and thoughtful. There is also an element of performance to the work – viewers’ perspectives and experiences are affected by movement through the space and through time. www.uharts.co.uk | www.stalbansmuseums.org.uk

Glass Fair returns to Knebworth House On Sunday 24 February, the Glass Fair will return to Knebworth House Barns for its seventh year, showcasing works from 70 exhibitors. The Fair will feature a collective mix of styles and ages of antique and contemporary glass. Glass from all periods and genres will be offered for sale from fine quality antiques and continental high design to retro collectables and pressed glass, paperweights and more. For those interested in contemporary studio glass, the field will be well represented by exhibitors with artists showing their highly skilled works including hand blown cameo, graal pieces, sculpture, kilnforming and engraving. Exhibitors will be available to discuss items with visitors. The fair is open 10.30am-4pm, entry £5. www.cambridgeglassfair.com

The Secret Art Fair comes to Colchester Discover one-off contemporary art at The Secret Art Fair at The Minories Art Gallery in Colchester from 1-3 March. Taking over the first floor of the gallery, the fair is the go-to event for discovering a refined selection of professional contemporary artists showing work including original paintings, sculpture, ceramics, jewellery and fine art prints. The fair gives residents the chance to view an otherwise unseen high calibre of visual art. Artists confirmed include Abi Fawcus, Alison Wagstaffe, Bev Howe, Elise Clitheroe, Evelyn Polk, Gillian Plummer and Val Bright Jones. All works displayed will be available to purchase. www.wecreateprojects.co.uk/ the-secret-art-fair-colchester

Image by Francesca Ucci

Image by Wendy Kimberley

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The

Cambridge Scene Written by Victoria Magnall

Twitter: @victoriamagnall Instagram: @victorias_social_scene Blog: victoriamagnall.wordpress.com

s a true romantic, I am a big fan of this time of year and embrace all that is associated with Valentine’s Day wholeheartedly! With so many romantic hotspots on our doorstep, here are some suggestions for a variety of occasions... Where better for a first date than the Cambridge Arts Picturehouse cinema on St Andrew’s Street. It really is the ideal venue for those passionate about movies as the Picturehouse is famed for quality screenings, both new releases and the classics. Its elegant, vintage interior sets itself apart from the multi-screen experience which is perfect for a first date. Film-goers are able to enjoy a glass of wine in the bar beforehand and during the movie which certainly adds to the decadence. Why not discover one of

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the themed evenings; Happy Mondays, Vintage Sundays and even the Slackers Club (free student screenings!). Date nights should always be exciting and the hot dining booking is most definitely Restaurant Twenty Two on Chesterton Road. For serious wow factor, surprise your loved one with a table at this beautiful restaurant. The lovingly restored Victorian townhouse backs onto the River Cam and Jesus Green and is home to exciting, modern British dining. Chef patron, Sam Carter, sources produce locally and makes everything fresh on site. As a result, the menu changes weekly depending on what seasonal produce our Cambridgeshire partners have delivered.

Cambridgeshire

Parker’s Tavern at The University Arms

If relaxation is the order of the day, The Glassworks at the Varsity Hotel comes highly recommended. Set in the centre of Cambridge, the Elemis spa is an oasis of calm and includes a sauna, steam room and Jacuzzi overlooking the River Cam in which you can relax anytime during your stay. You could even whisk your loved one away for some “one to one” time with a romantic stay and enjoy a relaxing and intimate candlelit massage for two before enjoying a bottle of Taittinger Champagne in your stylish room. The stunning University Arms on Regent Street has never looked better since its recent two year renovation under the watchful eye of architect John Simpson and interior designer Martin Brudnizki. As the oldest hotel in the city, it offers guests the most beautiful setting in which to relax in Cambridge with views across Parker’s Piece. Occupying the ground floor is Parker’s Tavern; a quintessentially English brasserie where Chef director Tristan Welch has designed every dish to be a whimsical re-imagining of a British classic, sourced from field, fen and seas. This is where you will find plates piled high with Norfolk fruits de mer, or in winter, suckling pig with wild mushrooms and Tristan’s signature pie of the day...you can taste England on every plate! To burn off the delicacies the hotel offers guests their bespoke bicycles to tour the city sights.

If you are looking for the perfect spot for that all important marriage proposal, then the Bridge of Sighs is surely the most romantic place. Queen Victoria is said to have loved it more than any other spot in the city. You could even hire a punt to pop the question under the bridge!

Victoria’s Top Tip A top tip for a romantic gift this year is to replicate Princess Diana’s gift to her bridesmaids; send your loved ones favourite bloom to be made in to a beautiful yet practical paperweight.

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Visit

St IVES Written by Liz Mattock

tep out in style around St Ives, a wonderful riverside town, basking in beauty in Cambridgeshire. Located a short distance from the A14, with easy access to Huntingdon and just 15 miles from Cambridge, the pretty town on the banks of the river Great Ouse is great for a weekend break or just a day trip you have planned. If you love wandering along historic streets, waterways, finished with a bite to eat, this is the right spot for you. St Ives has a bustling shopping centre with a good mix of independent traders and high street stores. Markets, selling local produce and handmade wares are held every Monday and Friday with Bank Holiday markets being very popular. On the first and third Saturday of each month an excellent Farmers’ Market takes place from 8.30am to 2pm. Check the tourism website www.ourstives.com for up-to-date information. Refresh from your journey at one of the many cosy cafes in the area, and with a good selection of restaurants and family-friendly pubs, you won’t be able to wait for lunchtime or your evening meal – not forgetting afternoon tea, of course! Depending on the time of year, annual events include an illuminated boat parade, which this year will take place on 7 September, The Old Riverport Jazz and Blues Festival and one for next Christmas, the Spectacular Snowman Festival.

The charming 15th century bridge and chapel over the river is one of only three such surviving bridges in England. Grab a takeaway coffee to keep you warm and take a saunter around the town’s winding streets, over the bridge and fill your lungs with the fresh air that this time of year brings. Catch one of the local buses and in 10 minutes you will find yourself in Cambridge itself. Punting, river boats, bus and bike tours all allow you to experience Cambridgeshire in style. There is a range of accommodation available in the town as well as surrounding villages, but vacancies fill up quickly due to the popularity of the area, so book your stay early to avoid disappointment. For more information on St Ives and its surrounding towns and villages, visit www.visitcambridge.org

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What’s on: Cambridgeshire THEATRE, FILM AND SHOWS 5-9 Feb She Loves Me Set in a 1930s Budapest parfumerie, ‘She Loves Me’ is a hilarious, heart-warming and Olivier awardwinning musical that follows the love lives of its various employees. ADC Theatre, Park St, Cambridge, CB5 8AS. www.corpusplayroom.com 6-10 Feb The Worst Witch Featuring Jill Murphy’s beloved characters, this new action-packed stage adaptation features original songs, music, magic and a dose of Mildred’s brand of utter pandemonium! Cambridge Arts Theatre, St Edward’s Passage, Cambridge, CB2 3PJ 01223 503333 www.cambridgeartstheatre.com 7-Feb Jason Donovan: Amazing Midlife Crisis Tour This is a tour with a twist! These intimate evenings will be an opportunity to see him like you’ve never seen him before! Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF. 01733 207239. www.vivacity-peterborough.com 8-Feb Ahir Shah: Duffer Ahir Shah returns with a new standup show about life and what comes after, death and what comes before, and Bohemian Rhapsody. The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge, CB1 7GX. 01223 511511. www.junction.co.uk 12-Feb Mark Thomas: Check Up Based on a series of interviews with leading experts in and on the NHS and residencies in hospitals and surgeries, Thomas, working with director Nicolas Kent, uses his own demise to explore the state we’re in. What’s going right, what’s going wrong and how does it get better? The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge, CB1 7GX 01223 511511. www.junction.co.uk 13-16 Feb Pool Noodles: A Comedy Show Kenny Shallows has always dreamt of being a poolside lifeguard. But when he wangles a place on the prestigious lifeguarding course at Hardwater

Leisure Centre (largest in Britain if you count the car park!) he finds he is a small fish in a big pond. ADC Theatre, Park St, Cambridge, CB5 8AS. www.corpusplayroom.com 14-Feb Queer Valentine’s Cambridge’s celebration of queer love on Valentine’s night 2019 will include a line up of fantastic acts. The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge, CB1 7GX. 01223 511511 www.junction.co.uk 17-Feb Tortoise and the Hare Northern Ballet’s ‘Tortoise & the Hare’ races on to the big screen as part of the fantastic season of interactive ballets for children, narrated by Anita Rani. Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF. 01733 207239. www.vivacity-peterborough.com 19 Feb - 2 Mar The Comedy About A Bank Robbery A priceless diamond has been entrusted to the city bank, an institution so corrupt that even the security guards are on the take. Can it be safely stored or will it all go horribly wrong? Cambridge Arts Theatre, St Edward’s Passage, Cambridge, CB2 3PJ. 01223 503333 www.cambridgeartstheatre.com 19-23 Feb Bad Luck Charlie Part comedy, part drama, this piece of new writing explores with tenderness and wit, what grief, intimacy, and what it means to be vulnerable. Corpus Playroom, 10 St Edward’s Passage, Cambridge CB2 3PJ www.corpusplayroom.com 19-23 Feb A Plane Old Sketch Show ‘A Plane Old Sketch Show’ does away with all the ploys and tricks of other sketch shows and just presents good, funny sketches for an hour of simple, funny comedy without gimmicks. Corpus Playroom, 10 St Edward’s Passage, Cambridge, CB2 3PJ. www.corpusplayroom.com 20-Feb Dolly Alderton: Everything I Know About Love Live After a wildly successful and enter-

taining run of live dates in 2018, Dolly is heading back out on tour to celebrate the paperback publication of her bestselling début book, ‘Everything I Know About Love’. Cambridge Corn Exchange, Wheeler Street, Cambridge, CB2 3QE 01223 357 851 www.cambridgelivetrust.co.uk 20-Feb Chinese New Year Extravaganza From the cheerful spirit of the auspicious Lion Dance, to the awe-inspiring contortion, the show is a colourful display of Chinese cultural tradition. Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF. 01733 207239. www.vivacity-peterborough.com 21-Feb Olga Koch In her debut show, the Edinburgh Comedy Award Best Newcomer nominee 2018 will try to dissect this real-life spy drama with nothing but a projector and a ‘unique voiced surely destined for stardom’ (British Comedy Guide). The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge, CB1 7GX 01223 511511. www.junction.co.uk 23-Feb Andrew Doyle: Friendly Fire Andrew Doyle is one of the UK’s foremost political satirists. ‘Friendly Fire’ is his seventh solo stand-up show. It follows the critically acclaimed Thought Crimes, which ran at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe last year and later transferred to the Soho Theatre in London. The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge, CB1 7GX 01223 511511. www.junction.co.uk 23-24 Feb We’re Going on a Bear Hunt An unmissable adventure through gigantic swishy swashy grass, the splishy splashy river and the oozy, squelchy mud in search of a bear. Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF. 01733 207239 www.vivacity-peterborough.com 26-Feb Hancock’s Half Hour Written by young up-and-comers Ray Galton and Alan Simpson, who

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later went on to create Steptoe and Son, Hancock’s Half Hour redefined radio comedy and has had people laughing non-stop for the past 65 years. Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF. 01733 207239. www.vivacity-peterborough.com 28-Feb The Turk by Michael Sabbaton A chilling tale of mystery, sentience and loss inspired by an 18th century ‘thinking machine’. Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF. 01733 207239 www.vivacity-peterborough.com MUSIC 7-9 Feb The Mikado Exchanging 19th-century Japan for 1920s Brooklyn, this production of the best-loved of Gilbert and Sullivan’s operettas promises to be one of the theatrical highlights of the Cambridge year! West Road Concert Hall, Cambridge, CB3 9DP 0845 196 2320. www.anglia.ac.uk 9-Feb Rachid Gholam Reviving the cultural treasure of the Muwashshah, one of the most iconic forms of classical Arabic music, Rachid Gholam’s stunning ensemble pays homage to its vast trove of poetry and melody. The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge, CB1 7GX 01223 511511. www.junction.co.uk 14-Feb Jacqui Dankworth and Charlie Wood Multi award-winning vocalist, Jacqui Dankworth, is joined by acclaimed American pianist-vocalist, Charlie Wood for a concert of duets celebrating a century of song. Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF, 01733 207239 www.vivacity-peterborough.com 18-Feb Kathryn Joseph Prodigiously talented and criminally underrated; Kathryn is one of Scotland’s best-kept secrets. The Junction, Clifton Way , Cambridge, CB1 7GX. 01223 511511 www.junction.co.uk 21-23 Feb Cambridge University Opera Society This ambitious production, directed by Eleanor Burke and performed

in the original French (with English subtitles) with full orchestra under the baton of Oliver Cope, will bring together some of Cambridge University’s finest musicians, singers and dancers to create a truly spectacular evening. West Road Concert Hall, Cambridge, CB3 9DP. 0845 196 2320. www.anglia.ac.uk 21-Feb Clare Teal - Swing’s The Thing A celebration of popular music from the golden age of song - upbeat and uplifting to the extreme. Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF. 01733 207239 www.vivacity-peterborough.com 24-Feb Woody Woodmansey and Tony Visconti’s Holy Holy Probably the closest experience to a Bowie gig you can get! Holy Holy are Bowie’s drummer and Spider Man from Mars – Woody Woodmansey and producer Tony Visconti, who worked on many of Bowie’s albums and played Bass on the ‘Man Who Sold The World’. Cambridge Corn Exchange, Wheeler Street, Cambridge, CB2 3QE. 01223 357 851 www.cambridgelivetrust.co.uk 27-Feb Peter Andre ‘The Celebrating 25 Years’ tour will see Peter encompass his musical journey through the years, performing his best loved hits from his early years to his present-day tracks that reignited the hearts of the nation. Cambridge Corn Exchange, Wheeler Street, Cambridge, CB2 3QE. 01223 357 851. www.cambridgelivetrust.co.uk ARTS & EXHIBITIONS 22 Jan - 24 Mar Julie Mehretu Drawings and Monotypes For this exhibition, Mehretu has made a new installation of richly layered drawings and monotypes, extending her dynamic exploration of the potential of drawing and mark making which are fundamental to her artistic practice. Inspired by current world issues, her personal biography, and the history of abstraction, Mehretu’s powerful works interrogate the present with urgency and lyricism. Kettle’s Yard, University of Cambridge, Castle Street,

Cambridge, CB3 0AQ. 01223 748 100. www.kettlesyard.co.uk 20-Feb How We Got Here Artist Emma Smith shares the making of her new commission. The Fitzwilliam Museum, Trumpington Street, Cambridge, CB2 1RB 01223 332900. www.fitzmuseum.cam.ac.uk 26-Feb Art Speak Drop-in and enjoy half an hour looking at and talking about art. The Fitzwilliam Museum, Trumpington Street, Cambridge, CB2 1RB. 01223 332900 www.fitzmuseum.cam.ac.uk SPECIAL EVENTS 14-Feb Cheese & Wine Tastings There will be something for everyone in this special tasting. If you like cheese and you like wine, this is the perfect combination. Cambridgeshire Wine School, The Royal Cambridge Hotel (hired venue), Trumpington Street, Cambridge, CB2 1PY. 01223 655391 www.cambridgeshirewineschool.com 20-22 Feb Lions Sports Academy Ely Rugby Camp A three-day mixed rugby camp at the home of Ely rugby, for ages 6 to 12 years old (U7 to U12). It’s all about having fun, building confidence, making new friends and developing the basic rugby skills needed to perform well and reduce the risk of injury. Lions Sports Academy, Ely. www.lionssport.academy 22-Feb Happily Ever After Introduce children to the story of ‘The Ugly Duckling’ and discover the wonderful world of ducks through crafts, activities, songtime and stories. Ferry Meadows, Ham Lane, Peterborough, PE2 5UU www.neneparktrust.org.uk AUCTIONS & ANTIQUES 6-Feb The Curiosity Fair Burwash Manor Monthly flea market, 25 traders of vintage, antiques, crafts and collectables. Enjoy them all in the grounds of lovely Burwash Manor. Open: 10am - 4pm. Entry £1. Burwash Manor, New Road, Barton, CB23 7EY. 07803 167982

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For ww

Shopping in Essex F

or some, nothing feels better than a little retail therapy. If you’re looking to spend some well-earned money, then hop in the car and visit one of Essex’s shopping destinations. From large malls and designer outlets to quirky boutiques and markets, the county has something for everyone.

Braintree Freeport A hub of modern entertainment in the town is Braintree Freeport. The popular retail outlet, which has over 85 stores offering up to 60 per cent of designer brands is definitely a place to visit for the shopaholics among you. You’ll find designer clothing, accessories and homewares for a fraction of the RRP! The area also has a cinema and a selection of chain restaurants. www.freeport-braintree.com

Chelmsford Home to one of the UK’s biggest summer festivals, shopping centres and glorious parks, Chelmsford has established itself as one of the most popular places in Essex. The city has grown immensely over the last few years with modern property developments and improvements to the town’s centre including the Bond Street Shopping Area, which makes a pleasant addition to the retail scene. It features a number of high street stores including John Lewis’ first Essex-based store, and a cinema. The town centre has an additional two shopping malls; The Meadows and High Chelmer Shopping Centre. Drive a short distance out of town and you’ll discover Chelmer Village Retail Park.

Intu Lakeside Here, you’ll find everything you need under one roof. In recent years the shopping mall has seen some huge changes with the addition of more stores, restaurants and leisure facilities. It’s a shopper’s paradise with big brand names and retailers. Developments are still on-going and 2019 will see the opening of the Nickelodeon family entertainment centre, Hollywood Bowl, Puttshack and Flip Out trampoline park. If you have a special occasion coming up, try the free personal shopping service. Read our review at www.eastlife.co.uk/article/ enjoy-personal-stylingat-intu-lakeside

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Clacton Factory Outlet The lure of Clacton may be its sandy beach and lively pier, but for shoppers wanting a bargain, Clacton Factory Outlet, is the place to visit. The pedestrianised shopping complex features a range of stores such as fashion, jewellery, gifts, homewares and more with discounts of up to 60 percent. It’s easy to reach, and just 20 minutes from Colchester, plus there’s free parking. www.clactonfactoryoutlet.co.uk

Essex Colchester Britain’s oldest town is great location for a spot of shopping. Colchester’s Charter Market dates back close to a millennium and continues to be a vibrant place to shop along Culver Street West, Long Wyre Street and Culver Street East every Friday and Saturday. The town centre is features two large, indoor shopping centres, Culver Square and Lion Walk, that between them house many of the country’s most popular high street retailers from Debenhams to H&M, alongside local businesses.

Great Dunmow Forget shopping malls and big department stores, the small market town of Great Dunmow 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 its shopping local scene. The High Street is a collective of independent businesses – think cute homeware stores, stylish boutiques, salons and cosy coffee shops.

Saffron Walden Saffron Walden combines the best of both worlds. It’s where old meets new. You can often feel as though you’ve been transported to a time gone by while doing your grocery shopping. A wander around the cobbled streets, while popping into independent boutiques and admiring the historic architecture is a beautiful way to spend an afternoon. The market takes place on Tuesday and Saturday and offers a delightful mix of local produce, furnishings and crafts. After a browse during the summer, prop yourself up at the make shift barrel table on the fish stall for cockles and a little tipple!

Dedham Art & Craft Centre For a different kind of shopping experience visit the Dedham Art & Craft centre, which is housed in a converted church in the village on the Essex/ Suffolk border. Over three floors visitors can browse and buy work from more than 60 artisans. Combine your visit with a stroll around this charming village nestled in the heart of Constable Country. www.dedhamartandcraftcentre.co.uk

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What’s on in Essex THEATRE, FILM AND SHOWS 30 Jan - 9 Feb Annie Join Annie, a plucky, charming orphan girl, and her loveable adopted mutt named Sandy, as they take you on a musical adventure in 1930s New York. Mercury Theatre, Balkerne Gate, Colchester, CO1 1PT 01206 573948 www.mercurytheatre.co.uk 6-7 Feb The Shy Manifesto The Shy Manifesto is bittersweet comedy drama about a boy who is fed up of being told to come out of his shell. The Harlow Playhouse, Playhouse Square, Harlow, CM20 1LS. 01279 431945. www.playhouseharlow.com 7-Feb Adam Kay: This is Going to Hurt Award-winning comedian Adam Kay shares entries from his diaries as a junior doctor in this “electrifying” (Guardian) evening of stand-up and music. Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS0 7RA 01702 351135. www.southendtheatres.org.uk 7-14 Feb DNA A group of teenagers do something bad, really bad, panic and cover things up. But when they find their misfiring practical joke uniting them, what’s the point of putting things right? Queens Theatre, Billet Lane, Hornchurch, RM11 1QT. www.queens-theatre.co.uk 9-Feb Ken Cheng Dave Joke of the Fringe Winner, Cambridge mathematics dropout and professional poker player Ken Cheng embarks on his UK-wide tour following a sold-out, award nominated run at the Edinburgh Festival. Palace Theatre, 430 London Road, Westcliff-on-Sea, SS0 9LA 01702 351135 www.southendtheatres.org.uk 9-Feb Mandy Muden: Cunning Stunts Loads of amazing tricks, razor sharp wit and lots of audience participation. Don’t miss a chance to see the only women ever to combine magic and comedy.

The Harlow Playhouse, Playhouse Square, Harlow, CM20 1LS. 01279 431945. www.playhouseharlow.com 12-14 Feb We’re Going On A Bear Hunt Expect catchy songs, interactive scenes and plenty of hands-on adventure! Palace Theatre, 430 London Road, Westcliff-on-Sea, SS0 9LA. 01702 351135 www.southendtheatres.org.uk 14-Feb Russell Kane Packing more energy than a Duracell factory, Russell’s RS Turbo laugh engine will motor through love, family and life – once again proving that the fast and the curious amongst us, see more stuff, and get more done. Mercury Theatre, Balkerne Gate, Colchester CO1 1PT. 01206 573948 www.mercurytheatre.co.uk 15-Feb Dan Snow – An Evening with the ‘History Guy’ The evening will feature the wellknown historian and TV presenter recount anecdotes of memorable experiences from his very successful career as an historian and broadcaster. West Cliff Theatre, Tower Road, Clacton-on-Sea, CO15 1LE. 01255 433344. www.westcliffclacton.co.uk 16-Feb Joan Collins - Unscripted ‘Joan Collins - Unscripted’ will see audiences enthralled as Dame Joan reveals some of the exciting stories and secrets from her long career and also includes a question and answer session with the chance to ask questions about her life and career. Palace Theatre, 430 London Road, Westcliff-on-Sea, SS0 9LA. 01702 351135. www.southendtheatres.org.uk 16, 17 & 20 Feb Film: Colette Keira Knightley stars in this vibrant biopic about the French writer who challenged gender norms and revolutionised literature in Belle Époque Paris. Saffron Screen, Saffron Walden County High School, Audley End Road, CB11 4UH. 01799 500238 www.saffronscreen.com

18-23 Feb The Girl On The Train Adapted from Paula Hawkins’ novel – an international phenomenon selling over twenty million copies worldwide – and starring Samantha Womack and Oliver Farnworth, this gripping new play will keep you guessing until the final moment. Palace Theatre, 430 London Road, Westcliff-on-Sea, SS0 9LA. 01702 351135. www.southendtheatres.org.uk 18-23 Feb The Mousetrap Experience shuddering suspense and a brilliantly intricate plot where murder lurks around every corner. Mercury Theatre, Balkerne Gate, Colchester, CO1 1PT. 01206 573948 www.mercurytheatre.co.uk 21-Feb LDN Wrestling The stars of LDN Wrestling are returning to the Princes Theatre for a night of over the top super-slamming wrestling! Princes Theatre, Station Road, Clacton-on-Sea, CO15 1SE. 01255 686633. www.tendringdc.gov. uk › Leisure › Princes Theatre 26 Feb - 2 Mar My Fair Lady The tale of a cockney flower girl, Eliza Doolittle, transformed into an elegant lady by Professor Henry Higgins and the subsequent unexpected affect that she has on his life. Civic Theatre, Duke Street, Chelmsford, CM1 1JG 01245 606505. www.chelmsford.gov.uk 27 Feb - 9 Mar One Man, Two Guvnors In 1963 Brighton, out-of-work skiffle player Francis Henshall becomes separately employed by two men – Roscoe Crabbe, a gangster, and Stanley Stubbers, an upper class twit. Francis tries to keep the two from meeting, in order to avoid each of them learning that Francis is also working for someone else. The Old Court Theatre, 233 Springfield Road, Chelmsford, CM2 6JT www.chelmsford.gov.uk 28-Feb Carl Hutchinson - I Know I Shouldn’t Behave Like This... From buying a house to having kids,

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Carl takes his unique adolescent approach to grown up issues. Cramphorn Theatre, Fairfield Road, Chelmsford, CM1 1JG. 01245 606505. www.chelmsford.gov.uk/theatre MUSIC 9-Feb On Tour with Elvis An exciting Vegas show filled with Elvis’ greatest hits and more delivered live in true Elvis style. West Cliff Theatre, Tower Road, Clacton-on-Sea, CO15 1LE. 01255 433344. www.westcliffclacton.co.uk 12-Feb The Magic of the Bee Gees It’s the Bee Gees‘ entire glittering songbook wrapped up in one spectacular live concert show. Mercury Theatre, Balkerne Gate, Colchester CO1 1PT. 01206 573948 www.mercurytheatre.co.uk 15-Feb Icons: Celebrating The Legendary Divas! Celebrate the leading ladies of music, with a brand new production packed with non-stop hits that guarantee to have you singing & dancing all night long. The Harlow Playhouse, Playhouse Square, Harlow, CM20 1LS. 01279 431945 www.playhouseharlow.com 15-Feb Whitney - Queen of the Night A stunning celebration of the music and life of one of the greatest singers of our time! Civic Theatre, Duke Street, Chelmsford, CM1 1JG. 01245 606505. www.chelmsford.gov.uk 16-Feb The Opera Boys Leading men from London’s West End combine in a powerhouse of vocal harmony to deliver a stunning blend of music ranging from opera to pop. West Cliff Theatre, Tower Road, Clacton-on-Sea, CO15 1LE. 01255 433344. www.westcliffclacton.co.uk 16-Feb Fast Love Get ready for an unforgettable evening celebrating the global superstar that is George Michael. Mercury Theatre, Balkerne Gate, Colchester, CO1 1PT. 01206 573948 www.mercurytheatre.co.uk 22-Feb Island In The Stream Enjoy the songs of the Queen and

King of country music - Dolly Parton and Kenny Rogers. The Harlow Playhouse, Playhouse Square, Harlow, CM20 1LS. 01279 431945 www.playhouseharlow.com 23-Feb The Sensational 60s Experience Six legendary names take to the stage and deliver to you a night never to be forgotten. Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS0 7RA. 01702 351135 www.southendtheatres.org.uk 23-Feb The Bon Jovi Experience The Bon Jovi Experience are the worlds first and finest tribute to the great Bon Jovi and are the worlds only tribute to have been requested by and to have performed live on stage with Jon Bon Jovi himself. Civic Theatre, Duke Street, Chelmsford, CM1 1JG. 01245 606505 www.chelmsford.gov.uk 26-Feb The Johnny Cash Roadshow This show is simply the biggest and best celebration of Johnny Cash in the world today. Mercury Theatre, Balkerne Gate, Colchester, CO1 1PT 01206 573948 www.mercurytheatre.co.uk ARTS & EXHIBITIONS 5 Jan - 24 Feb New Year Selection Exhibition open Wednesday to Sunday 10am to 5pm or by appointment. Chappel Galleries, 15 Colchester Road, Chappel, CO6 2DE. 01206 240326. www.chappelgalleries.co.uk 5-Feb Exhibition on Screen: Young Picasso Too long ignored, it is time to look at the early years of Picasso; the upbringing and the learning that led to his extraordinary achievements. Firstsite, Lewis Gardens, High Street, Colchester, CO1 1JH. www.firstsite.uk 23-Feb Model Railway Club Exhibition An exhibition with 10 working layouts, traders, second-hand stall and refreshments. 1 Market Place, Saffron Walden, CB10 1HR SPECIAL EVENTS 6 & 20 Feb Maldon Film Club Maldon Film Club screens a

programme of recently released English and foreign language films fortnightly. Maldon Town Hall, Market Hill, Maldon, CM9 4RL. 01621 869340. www.maldonfilmclub.uk 14-Feb The Magic Of Valentine’s at Colchester Castle Museum Come along after hours and meet the curators as they explore the magic of Valentine’s. Celebrate the history of love with a complimentary glass of Prosecco. 5pm-7pm. Colchester. CO1 1TJ. cimuseums.org.uk 24-Feb St Clare Winter Walkies From Cockapoos and Cocker Spaniels to Pugs and Poodles, dozens of dogs of all shapes and sizes are set to take part in a sponsored 5km countryside walk. Adults £10, Children £5, Family of 4 £27.50 Town Centre, Harlow. www.stclarehospice.org.uk/event/ winter-walkies 1-2 Mar The 10th Chappel Winter Beer Festival Up to 70 real ales plus a selection of ciders & perry will be available. Live music both evenings. East Anglian Railway Museum, Chappel Station, Colchester, CO6 2DS. www. chappelbeerfestival.org.uk/winter AUCTION & ANTIQUES 10-Feb Essex Antiques and Collectors Fair With the foyer and the 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. Entry £3.50, under 16s free. Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS0 7RA 01702 351135. www.southendtheatres.org.uk 10-Feb Brentwood Centre Antiques & Collectors Fair The fair features dealers from all over the country selling a huge variety of affordable items. Open: 9am - 4pm. Admission: £3.50 (10am) and £2.50 concessions, early entry (9am) £5. The Brentwood Centre, Doddinghurst Road, CM15 9NN 01702 410171. www.gnbfairs.com

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IN THE HEART OF BECCLES TOWN CENTRE

UN MAN DER N AGE EW MEN T

Immerse yourself in the eccentric warmth of the Swan House, bursting with oodles of charm. Ideally situated in the bustling, traditional market town of Beccles, the Swan House offers beautiful idiosyncratic room only accommodation. Our characterful and distinctive rooms provide the perfect, cosy base from which to explore the Suffolk heritage coast and the Norfolk broads. East Anglia at her most beautiful and varied is literally on the doorstep. After an intrepid day of exploring, come back to a good night’s sleep in a room designed to provide every comfort. Indulge in fully sprung mattresses, crisp white bedding, flat screen TV’s and free Wi-Fi.

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Using as much locally sourced produce as possible, the aim of the team at the Picnic is to provide customers with a relaxed dining experience; Our Table service offers advice when making choices from our daily changing Picnic counter. Or why not opt for the more traditional Brunch style dishes which are cooked to order, inc gluten free & vegetarian options. Coffee & cake are a real must when visiting the Picnic, our daily cake selection reflects our team. Never dull, fun & unusual, you never quite know what the flavour’s will be today.

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Solid Steel Rose Arches, Gazebos, Gates and To celebrate this, we have launched our Man CaveOrnamental with all shooting and fishing clothing, footwear, bait and accessories. Ironwork on We have builtdisplay up a reputation or for offering 1st class service with quality products at affordable handmade to prices. your requirements. Pop in and take a look around our Here at Crossways of Ellingham we have been supplying high quality animal feed, country clothing and equestrian supplies for 20 years!

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10 things to do in Beccles & Bungay

eccles and neighbouring Bungay, are two gorgeous Georgian towns, nestled in the Waveney Valley. Suffolk’s coastal towns may often steal the limelight but if you’re looking for an enjoyable spring day out or weekend away, you’ll be pleasantly surprised with what the historic towns have to offer. Get exploring with our top 10 things to do…

All aboard Beccles is home to the most southerly navigable point of the Broads National Park, perfect for taking to the water with a day hire boat or canoe. Local company Hippersons have a fleet of boats and can advise on routes along the Broads, rivers and waterways. If you prefer to let someone else do the driving, hop aboard the Big Dog Ferry, which offers a 40-minute boat journey along the River Waveney.

River walks If you’d rather stay on dry land, Beccles has many beautiful walks where you’ll still get to take in the beauty of the river and spot some wildlife. The Beccles Marsh Trail is a popular option with a series of walks and cycle routes.

Tales in Bungay Located 6.5 miles west of Beccles, Bungay captivates visitors with its history and folklore. Famous for the tale of Black Shuck; a ghostly black dog that supposedly

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appeared in 1577, causing havoc in the church, injuring and killing some of the congregation. There’s even a beer and gin named after the mythical creature! You can visit St Mary’s Church, which today still hosts services and regular exhibitions and events to help raise funds for the upkeep of the building. The charming town is also home to the remains of a Norman Castle. Discover the history at the visitor centre, café and gift shop, where displays help you imagine what the castle would have been like in the early 12th century. Entry is free but donations are welcomed.

Shopping Keen shoppers will adore both towns’ delightful mix of stores and boutiques. Books, clothing, jewellery, homewares, crafts and more; independent retailers with their enticing window fronts are located between high street brands, helping the towns retain a sense of old world charm. Both towns host a weekly market, Bungay’s market is on a Thursday and Beccles’ on a Friday.

Bungay Town Trail The best way to explore Bungay is by walking the Bungay Town Trail, which starts at the Market Place and takes two hours to complete. A more advanced walk starts at the Bigod Way, covering 10 miles, taking in historic sites, rare plants and wildlife.

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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

15A Blyburgate, Beccles, Suffolk NR34 9TB Telephone 01502 714234

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A bite to eat

Antiquing

Whether you need a light bite, lunch or dinner, Beccles and Bungay have a fabulous independent food scene. For tea and cake stop by the quirky Every Day’s a Picnic Café at Brick Yards in Bungay or the very Instagrammable Urban Jungle Café in Beccles, where the food is just as vibrant as the interior! Try a pizza that rivals those found in Italy at the Royal Oak in Beccles or for tasty traditional ‘pub grub’ visit Bungay’s The Fleece Inn.

If you enjoy browsing antiques and vintage items, coincide your trip with the bi-annual Beccles Antique Street Market. Held in the town centre on 5 May and 11 August, a hundred general and specialist dealers will be selling a range of goods including furniture, jewellery, books, décor and much more. For the first time, this year will also incorporate street food. Don’t worry if you can’t make one of these dates, the area is home to a number of antique stores!

Beccles Food and Drink Festival Celebrating its 5th year, Beccles Food and Drink Festival is returning in 2019 to tantalise the taste buds. Set for Saturday 25 May, 10am-4pm, the Festival features over 70 food and drink stalls, many of them local artisan producers, as well as those from farther afield in East Anglia. Based in the centre of the vibrant market town, the Festival will include cookery demonstrations and talks, music and children’s entertainment. A free Park & Ride service will run throughout the day from Beccles Quay, where additional parking will be available.

Urban Jungle Cafe

Tasty tipples You simply can’t visit Bungay without sampling its local ales. Within the area you’ll find traditional pubs selling a range of local brews. If you want to find out more, St Peter’s Brewery is close by and offers a brewery tour and tastings from Easter to December.

Sweet dreams If you’re making a weekend of your trip, bed down at The Swan Motel in Beccles, which featured on Channel 4s ‘Four In a Bed’. With a warm, friendly and homely feel, it’s great value for money.

Useful information for planning your trip: www.hippersons.co.uk www.bigdogferry.co.uk www.visitbeccles.co.uk/walks-trails/ www.stmaryschurchbungay.co.uk www.stpetersbrewery.co.uk www.becclesfoodfestival.co.uk www.visitbeccles.co.uk

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What’s on: Suffolk THEATRE, FILM AND SHOWS 30 Jan - 9 Feb The Wisdom Club ‘The Wisdom Club’ explores the real-life experiences of Britain’s ageing population from their humorous perspective. Theatre Royal, Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1QR. 01284 769505 www.theatreroyal.org 6-7 Feb Bing Live Join Bing, Sula, Coco and Pando as they find out how to tell stories by pretending, dressing-up and singing songs. Flop and Amma are there to help, but in this magical world of make-believe things don’t always go according to plan…Marina Theatre, The Marina, Lowestoft, NR32 1HH 01502 533200. www.marinatheatre.co.uk 9-Feb Superslam Wrestling Live Action If you have seen the live action before, you know how exciting the kids get watching the World famous superstars in action. If you haven’t, give it a whirl and see for yourself LIVE action that the rest of the world only can see on TV. Grand Hall, Corn Exchange, Ipswich, IP1 1DH apps.ipswich.gov.uk 12-16 Feb The Band The Band features the music of Take That, Britain’s most successful boyband of all time, whose songs include Never Forget. Ipswich Regent Theatre, 3 Saint Helen’s Street, Ipswich, IP4 1HE. 01473 433100. apps.ipswich.gov.uk 12-Feb The Tragedy of King Richard the Second Simon Russell Beale plays William Shakespeare’s Richard II, broadcast from the stage of the Almeida Theatre, London. Richard II, King of England, is irresponsible, foolish and vain. His weak leadership sends his kingdom into disarray and his court into uproar. Haverhill Arts Centre, High Street, Haverhill, CB9 8AR. 01440 714140. www.haverhillartscentre.co.uk

13-Feb Film: Edie A beautiful film shot in the Scottish Highlands. Recently bereaved Edie faces some tough realities as she begins to question her mortality. Between losing her husband and her distant daughter trying to put her into a retirement home, Edie decides to go on the trip she never got to take. The Cut, New Cut, Halesworth, IP19 8BY. 0300 3033 211. newcut.org 15-16 Feb Showstopper! The Improvised Musical 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 all-singing, all-dancing productions with hilarious results. Theatre Royal, Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1QR. 01284 769505 www.theatreroyal.org 15-Feb A Night with Frank, Dean & Judy Strictly Theatre Co. present their swinging tribute to Frank Sinatra’s Rat Pack, featuring swing singers and brothers Paul & Stephen Amer who will be joined by female singer Ellie Darnell, their live show band including a world class brass section, plus dancing showgirls. Haverhill Arts Centre, High Street, Haverhill, CB9 8AR. 01440 714140 www.haverhillartscentre.co.uk 15-Feb The Intellectual Hooligans – Valentines Improv Comedy Special The show will consist of “Whose Line is it Anyway?” style games based entirely on audience suggestions, anything goes (and we mean anything!) so come armed with your best ideas and scenarios! The Seagull, 19-75 Morton Road, Lowestoft, NR33 0JH. 01502 589726 www.theseagull.co.uk 17-Feb Jimeoin - Result! An evening of world class stand-up as the Irishman from Australia brings his brilliantly observed, ever-evolving and hilarious comedy to The Apex, fresh from a smash-hit New York off-Broadway season with his latest

sell out tour. The Apex, 1 Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 3FD 01284 758000. www.theapex.co.uk 20-Feb Check Up – Our NHS @ 70 Based on a series of interviews with leading experts in and on the NHS and residencies in hospitals and surgeries, Thomas, working with director Nicolas Kent, uses his own demise to explore the state we’re in. What’s going right, what’s going wrong and how does it get better? Theatre Royal, Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1QR. 01284 769505. www.theatreroyal.org 21-Feb Seven Ages A truly unique show that makes one re-assess one’s priorities in life, whilst simultaneously making you laugh. Theatre Royal, Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1QR. 01284 769505. www.theatreroyal.org 25-27 Feb Bouncers Lucky Eric, Judd, Les and Ralph are back and telling the tales of a Yorkshire nightclub. Of lads and lasses, sticky floors and shots galore, and the early morning taxi home, all under the watchful eyes of the Bouncers. Theatre Royal, Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1QR. 01284 769505. www.theatreroyal.org 27-Feb Film: Faces Places In this wonderful documentary 90year-old Agnes Varda, grande dame of the French New Wave, shares the role of director with 35-year-old JR, street artist and photographer. The Cut, New Cut, Halesworth, IP19 8BY. 0300 3033 211. newcut.org MUSIC 8-Feb Let’s Hang On The world’s longest-running tribute to the music of Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons celebrates 10 years at the top. The Apex, 1 Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 3FD. 01284 758000. www.theapex.co.uk 8-Feb Love Songs For Losers Jon Peach is a Great Yarmouth based Singer/Songwriter. ‘Love Songs for

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Earsham Home Furnishings

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

Open –daily - Bank holiday opening–times 10am to 5pm Monday - Saturday 9.00am 5.00pm • Sunday 10.00pm 4.00pm • Bank Holidays 9.00am – 5.00pm Tel: 01986 893 423 - Email: enquiries@earshamhomefurnishings.co.uk Tel: 01986 893 423 - Email: earshamhomefurnishings.co.uk- -Web: Web:www.earshamhomefurnishing.co.uk www.earshamhall.co.uk

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

Luxury Self-catering Accommodation in eight Converted Barns on a working Arable and Dairy Farm. We are situated in the beautiful peaceful rural Waveney Valley adjoining the southern tip of the Norfolk Broads.

We supply a large range of high quality outdoor apparel and footwear, as well as a full range of branded hunting, ﬁshing and shooting equipment and accessories.

Many fantastic sandy beaches and attractions can be found a short distance from Wheatacre Hall Barns making this a great place to base your visit in your discovery of Norfolk and Suffolk. Facilities include, Games Barn, Fitness Barn, Soft Play Barn and Hot Tub and plenty of outdoor space for fun and games.

3a & 3b Wilfred Bridge Rd, Melton, Woodbridge IP12 1RB Contact Joanna Burroughs on 01502 677208 Wheatacre Hall Barns, Wheatacre, Beccles, NR34 0AS www.wheatacrehallbarns.co.uk

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Losers’ is his solo project, born out of his passion for beat poetry & story teller love songs. The Seagull, 19-75 Morton Road, Lowestoft, NR33 0JH 01502 589726. www.theseagull.co.uk 15-Feb Simply Dylan A musical journey through the career of one of the world’s most iconic singer-songwriters. The Apex, 1 Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 3FD. 01284 758000 www.theapex.co.uk 15-Feb Respect to Aretha Life-long Aretha Franklin fan and power-house vocalist, Letitia George stars in this heartfelt and uplifting dedication to the Queen of Soul. Marina Theatre, The Marina, Lowestoft, NR32 1HH. 01502 533200 www.marinatheatre.co.uk 16-Feb Dan Webster Dan Webster is described as ‘one of the UK’s best kept musical secrets and one not to miss! The Seagull, 19-75 Morton Road, Lowestoft, NR33 0JH. 01502 589726 www.theseagull.co.uk

Marina Theatre, The Marina, Lowestoft, NR32 1HH. 01502 533200 www.marinatheatre.co.uk 25-Feb Academy of Ancient Music Young recorder-player Lucie Horsch is already in demand internationally as a soloist and, with a critically-acclaimed solo album to her name, has launched what promises to be a distinguished career. The Apex, 1 Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 3FD. 01284 758000 www.theapex.co.uk ARTS & EXHIBITIONS 8-10 Feb Painting Constable Country in Oils An opportunity to paint in oils some of the landscape made famous by John Constable around Flatford Mill in Suffolk. Participants will be able to adopt a slightly more contemporary approach whilst learning and practise various techniques. Flatford Mill, East Bergholt, CO7 6UL. 01206 297110. www.field-studies-council.org

19-21 Feb Animal Invasion The live animals are back! Find out more about a range of animals, 17-Feb Pocket Sinfonia how they adapt and survive in their Pocket Sinfonia is a combination of environments, and how humans have flute, violin, cello and piano. The an impact on their worlds. Check group is reinterpreting out www.cimuseums.org.uk for more orchestral masterpieces with the details on the animals and exciting fresh spontaneity and intimacy of a topics we will explore. £3.30 entry. chamber group. The Cut, New Cut, Ipswich Museum, High St, Ipswich IP1 Halesworth, IP19 8BY. 0300 3033 211. newcut.org 3QH. www.ipswich.gov.uk/content/ animal-invasion-1 19-Feb Voice of the Heart 21-Feb Abstraction This stunning show celebrates the This idealistic international movement music of The Carpenters. Theatre included such radical artists as Royal, Westgate Street, Bury St Vanessa Bell, Sophie Tauber Arp and Edmunds, IP33 1QR. 01284 769505 Sonia Delaunay. This is part one of 12 www.theatreroyal.org from the ‘GIRL POWER - A History of Women Artists’ talk series. 23-Feb Blake Tour 2019 The Cut, New Cut, Halesworth, Brit-Award-winning vocal trio Blake IP19 8BY. 0300 3033 211. are taking their anniversary show newcut.org on tour throughout the UK. Theatre Royal, Westgate Street, Bury St 27-Feb Introduction to Sculpture Edmunds, IP33 1QR. 01284 769505 Develop techniques and create www.theatreroyal.org new work through free artist-led workshops. Suitable for all levels of 23-Feb Roy Orbison Story ability. Free to attend. Christchurch Barry Steele has been stunning Mansion, Soane St, Ipswich, IP4 2BE audiences with his uncanny ability www.ipswich.gov.uk/introductionto recreate the vocal talents of this tosculpture legendary entertainer, winning rave reviews across the globe.

SPECIAL EVENTS 9-Feb Yoga & Fitness Mini Retreat A full morning of yoga and fitness related activities. Choice of 12 classes from the best local instructors. Create your own schedule of 4 classes out of a choice of 12 exciting options. Each class is 50 minutes in duration. There is a 20min break in between classes where you will be offered a healthy snack. Henham Park, Beccles, NR34 8AN. www.henhamyoga.com/events 15-Feb Be My Valentine Start your evening by shaping your own chocolate creations, then settle down to a late night showing of ‘Ghost’ – the best movie to combine pottery and romance. Not feeling the love? Bring your mates for the perfect Valentine’s date alternative. £16.50 per person. Christchurch Mansion, Soane St, Ipswich IP4 2BE 16 Feb - 22 Apr Children’s Spring Trail Pick up a Nature Trail map from the Visitor Centre or Little Rascals and find friends around Snape Maltings. The Nature Trail ends in Little Rascals where there’s a chance to enter the free prize draw. To enter, complete the keep in touch card provided. Have fun! Snape Maltings Snape, IP17 1SP. 01728 687110. snapemaltings.co.uk AUCTIONS & ANTIQUES 3-Feb The Famous Copdock Antiques & Collectors Fair Dealers from Suffolk, Norfolk, Essex and beyond will be selling a wide range of fascinating items. Some dealers will also be buying, so if you have any heirlooms you would like to part with bring them along. Admission £2. Seniors & Students £1.50. Accompanied Children under 14 admitted free. The Best Wesern Ipswich Hotel (Formerly the Cameo), Old Ipswich Road, Copdock, IP8 3JD. 01702 410171 17-Feb Suffolk Antiques & Collectors Fair Antiques & collectors fair in the beautiful village of Lavenham. Refreshments available. Open: 9.30am - 4pm. Admission: £1 accompanied children free. Lavenham Village Hall, Church Street, Lavenham, CO10 9QT

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As the world starts to take sustainable shopping more seriously, you’ll be relieved to know that Norfolk is not lagging behind. Sustainability and ethical consumerism are complex issues, but any move to reduce waste and your carbon footprint is a move to buy better. So, if you’re trying to clean up your act in 2019, take a look at some of the best places in Norfolk… Shopping Whether you’re looking for refillables, reusables or just to reduce your waste, there are some great local shops. If you’re in Norwich, pop to Rainbow Wholefoods (www. rainbowwholefoods.co.uk) in The Lanes, Norwich Market for fresh fruit and veg without plastic, or The Green Grocers (www.thegreengrocers.co.uk) on Earlham Road. Or, further East is The Green Lady Eco store in Lowestoft which also allows you to shop online at www.greenladyecostore.squarespace.com.

Eating out The easiest way to reduce waste and your carbon footprint is to eat at home, however there’ll always be times when you’re out and about and want to grab a coffee or enjoy a night out. Committed to making sustainable, carbon-neutral choices where possible, you won’t go wrong with a trip to either Erpingham House (www.erpinghamhouse.com) in Tombland (perfect for breakfast, lunch or dinner!) or The Greenhouse Trust café (www.greenhousetrust.co.uk) on Bethel Street (great for a light lunch or coffee and cake). Deepdale Campsite

If you want to go further out of town, pop along to the Green Parrot in Swaffham (www.green-parrot.co.uk).

Accommodation If you’re holidaying in Norfolk this year, you’ll be pleased to know there are some eco-friendly options here too. If you’re visiting the coast then Deepdale Hostel and Campsite (www.deepdalebackpackers.co.uk) or Mill Farm Eco Barn (www.millfarm-ecobarn.co.uk) are both great choices. If you’re planning a trip to the Norfolk Broads The Waveney River Centre (www.waveneyrivercentre.co.uk) has been awarded David Bellamy’s Gold Conservation Award and offers both lodges and camping facilities. Lastly, if you need a taxi to get you home after a night out, or take you to the shops or train station, you’ll be pleased to know that a zero emissions Taxi Firm has opened in Norwich. Find out more about Zero Taxis here: www.zerotaxis.com Above & below: The Waveney River Centre

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WINTER SALE OFFER King Size for Double Price on All Relyon Divan Beds and Mattresses From 26th December to 28th Feb 2019

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5 Reasons to Visit Harleston Written by Kate Garside

he traditional friendly market town of Harleston is in the Waveney Valley on the Norfolk/Suffolk border and is about 30 minutes south of Norwich by road. My husband and I visited it on a cold grey Thursday in January, and spent about four hours in the town, and thoroughly enjoyed it. Next time we would definitely give ourselves longer. Here are our five reasons to visit: 1. Harleston is an ancient market town. There has been a market in Harleston every Wednesday for over 500 years. The town is full of character with narrow streets, pretty houses and quirky cottages and lanes around every corner. If you love period houses, you will love the architecture! 2. There are lots of independent shops. There are lots of useful and interesting stores including several butchers, bakers, ladies clothing, an excellent shoe shop, a nice gift store Daisy & Co, a large card shop, florist, a hardware store, pet shop, photography studio, independent chocolate confectionary and lots of charity shops. Everything was very reasonably priced and the staff in all the shops were very friendly and helpful. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s worth noting that Thursday is half day closing. There is also a large Adnams store, a small Boots chemist and a very good Co-Op in the centre of the town with lots of free parking. On the edge of the town there is a factory shop outlet. 3. There are several useful interior shops. This includes a very reasonably priced bathroom store, an excellent paint shop that stocks Farrow and Ball, a lighting retailer, and another interior store that will be opening soon.

The Tudor Bakehouse

4. There is a fabulous antiques and vintage centre. Cornucopia, in the old Corn Exchange building, which is a treasure chest and great fun to browse. It is also warm (unusual for an antiques centre in winter) and very welcoming. There is also a lovely vintage tearoom serving light lunches, afternoon tea and more, all served on vintage china. 5. There are lots of cosy cafes and several good pubs serving food throughout the town. We had lunch at The Egg and Easel Cafe which was a real treat. A pretty cafe serving homemade lunches, cakes, coffees and teas. Try something from the daily special board! Their lamb tagine was delicious and just what we needed to warm us up on a cold day. The cafĂŠ was popular with the locals, thanks to its tasty food and warm and friendly welcome. We would like to have tried all the cafes on our visit as they all looked good!

Powder Socks at gift shop Daisy and Co

Vintage tearoom, Cornucopia antiques

Kate lives in North Norfolk and is an owner of a holiday cottage in Blakeney that she has renovated with her husband and now rents as a holiday let. She is passionate about vintage and antique furniture & china, upcycling, gardening and Norfolk. www.blakeney-cottage.co.uk | www.vintagefarmhouse.co.uk

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The Century home offersand a selection of carefully designed and furnished single a was built in the 18th has recently been extended double rooms with en-suite facilities, many with level access showers to provide both short and long term care for up to 45 people. 01379 855297 Tel: 01379 641030 Fax: 0137 2A Bullock Fair Close, Harleston, 9AT acres of mature grounds that include a small lake. The Hall isNorfolk set inIP20 three

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The Best of the

BROADS Pubs…that is! Mike Garside discovers the best pubs on the Norfolk Broads; it was a tough job, but someone had to do it…

hen I first started to think about writing an article on the best pubs to eat in on the northern Broads and rivers, I thought I would approach it geographically, or nautically, as most seasonal boat hire travellers would find them. On reflection I suspect most readers are more likely to approach most of them by car, either in passing or as a planned trip out for a meal. Getting a feel for the Broads by car is at best tricky, glimpses of the river are often fleeting, even frustrating, and these pubs can offer great access points to the water’s edge and views of all the boat traffic and even some of the wildlife, normally reserved for those lucky enough to actually get on the water. We normally have two or three dogs on board, or in the boot, so our selection tends towards dog-friendly establishments by default. If you baulk at eating in the company of four legged companions, these may not be for you, but many offer a dining area, separate from the bar.

The Swan Inn, Horning Tudor wood-framed in part, and perhaps one of the most recognised and photographed pubs on the Bure, the Swan is now part of a large chain, but none the worse for it. Limited moorings in Horning are a constant problem for river visitors, but the adjacent public car par (pay and display) offers access to the village, pub and river for drivers. The Swan offers an extensive menu, with an outside dining area on the river bank in season, giving perhaps one of the best vantage points of the bustling river for lunch or dinner in mid-summer. The Swan is dog friendly and offers accommodation. www.vintageinn.co.uk/restaurants/easttheswaninnhorning

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The Bridge Inn, Acle Cask marque accredited with guest beers and both Woodfords and Adnams on draft, the Bridge Inn is located by the Acle bridge and is easily accessible by river and road with good moorings and car parking. The website is worth pulling up for menus, offers, reviews (very good) and a great history page with old photos and the pub’s history. Children and dogs are welcome, and there’s a riverside beer garden in peak season and Sunday roast in low season. www.aclebridge.co.uk

The Lion Inn, Thurne The Lion Inn is a little off the beaten track by car, being on the road to nowhere, apart from Thurne, but it’s worth the effort. It does benefit from seasonal boat traffic, being situated at the head of Thurne Dyke and its iconic windmill, which offers a large number of overnight moorings (small charge payable at the pub). It’s very popular with families and is dog friendly, in fact it’s one of the best places to eat and dog walk, with riverside footpaths allowing river view/side walking all the way to Potter Heigham. www.lion-inn-thurne.co.uk

The Nelson Head, Horsey This was recommended to my wife and I by Alison from Oliver’s Sailing Holidays (www.broadssailingholidays. co.uk) who hire classic sailing yachts. She describes it as a “little pub with a big character and definitely one of our very favourite pubs in Norfolk!” I’ve tried to eat here twice now and failed due to its popularity. I still want to go back, partly from the reviews and mostly because it’s like stepping into the 19th century. Punt guns over the bar, shackles and ropes. Dogs under every table. There are very limited covers due to its compact size, so arrive early (which we didn’t). Outside seating in the summer helps, and yes I know it’s not strictly on the Broads, but it’s close enough to Horsey Mere to count. Visit seals on the beach at Horsey for a wildlife experience to rival any large game safari. If you can’t get a table, a short drive away at the top of Hickling Broad is its sister pub, The Pleasure Boat Inn. www.thenelsonhead.com The Nelson Head

The Pleasure Boat Inn, Hickling This was first recommended to us by Nick Highton of Martham Ferry Boatyard, a local dog friendly day boat hire company (marthamferryboatyard.co.uk). “The Pleasure Boat is exceptionally located, overlooking Hickling Broad and Dyke, and a great lunch stop for our hire boat visitors, being about an hour from the boatyard and taking visitors across the wonderful Hickling Broad,” he explained. The Pleasure Boat Inn dates back to 1745, simply furnished, serving value for money tasty pub food. The tables outside have a fabulous view of Hickling Dyke and Broad. The pub is dog and child friendly. There is a massive free car park. Motoring homes - remember to take a right turn up to see Horsey Mere and the Windmill at Horsey Dyke. www.thepleasureboatinn.co.uk

The King’s Head, Coltishall The King’s Head is a 17th century country inn situated on the banks of the River Bure on the Wroxham approach to Coltishall. The 24-hour moorings are popular during the summer. Car parking is also busy in peak season and shared with the Rising Sun, on adjacent sites. The King’s Head offers fine cuisine, specialising in locally sourced produce. One for diners wanting gastro over pub grub. Bed and Breakfast is also offered. The outside seating area is limited, and more on the road than the river. www.kingsheadcoltishall.co.uk

The Wroxham Hotel, Wroxham I know it’s strictly not a pub but I do think this is worth a mention, not just because most people’s experience of the Broads rarely extends much beyond a trip to Wroxham, but also because it’s just so good. Recently refurbished, it has one of the best terrace bar areas on the river and has a great restaurant and bar menu, and moorings. The terrace provides views of Wroxham bridge and all the fun that a low narrow, partly blind stone arch can create for the novice captains of the massive hire boats, trying to pass under. The food is great with a friendly bar with dogs and kids welcome. There’s the bonus of afternoon tea and cakes too. www.hotelwroxham.co.uk

Mike Garside is passionate about sailing, walking, dogs, eating out and Norfolk. He is owner of a holiday cottage in Blakeney that he has renovated with his wife and now rents as a holiday let. www.blakeney-cottage.co.uk The Wroxham Hotel

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What’s on: Norfolk THEATRE, FILM AND SHOWS 5-12 Feb Calendar Girls the Musical An award-winning production based on the true story of the calendar girls - a group of ordinary ladies who achieved something extraordinary. Norwich Theatre Royal, Theatre Street, Norwich, NR2 1RL 01603 630000 www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk 6-9 Feb Peddling The earth grumbles. Growling. Rising. We’re in a field somewhere in London. A peddler boy wakes up, a firework in his hand. How did he get here? Maddermarket Theatre, St Johns Alley, Norwich, NR2 1DR 01603 620917 www.maddermarket.co.uk 7-Feb An Evening Of Mediumship with Psychic Tony Stockwell It’s psychic medium Tony Stockwell demonstrating his belief that those who have passed can communicate with their loved ones. Princess Theatre, 13 The Green, Hunstanton, PE36 5AH. 01485 532252 www.princesshunstanton.co.uk 8-9 Feb A Man of Letters Frank has erected signs for a commercial letterer for twenty-five years but one day, up on the roof with trainee Alan, his attempts at trying to spell a familiar word lead to a loss of confidence. And it’s a long way down…Westacre Theatre, River Road, Westacre, PE32 1UD 01760 755800 www.westacretheatre.com 8-Feb Morgan & West - Parlour Tricks Time travelling magic duo Morgan & West present a brand new show chock full of jaw dropping, brain bursting, gasp eliciting feats of magic. Sheringham Little Theatre, 2 Station Road, Sheringham, NR26 8RE. 01263 822347 www.sheringhamlittletheatre.com 8-Feb Vampires Rock Sam Bailey is about to get her teeth into a real rocker of a show when she takes the role of the Vampire

Queen in the hit touring musical extravaganza ‘Vampires Rock Ghost Train’ for the 2019 spring tour. King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, Tuesday Market Place, King’s Lynn, PE30 1JW. 01553 764864. www.kingslynncornexchange.co.uk 9-Feb Tatterdemalion - Manipulate Festival From the creators of Boris & Sergey comes a one-hour one man show featuring puppetry, physical comedy, and mime. Norwich Puppet Theatre, St James, Whitefriars, Norwich, NR3 1TN. 01603 629921 www.puppettheatre.co.uk 9-Feb Baby With the Bath Water Durang’s Broadway play is a satirical approach on the issues that can be deeply felt in modern society. It is guaranteed to make you laugh and gasp at the same time. Sheringham Little Theatre, 2 Station Road, Sheringham, NR26 8RE. 01263 822347 www.sheringhamlittletheatre.com 13-Feb Nish Kumar Double Edinburgh Comedy Award Nominee Nish Kumar is taking his brand new show on a national tour of the UK! King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, Tuesday Market Place, King’s Lynn, PE30 1JW. 01553 764864. www.kingslynncornexchange.co.uk 14-Feb Sindhu Vee: Sandhog Edinburgh Comedy Award Best Newcomer Nominee 2018, Sindhu Vee embarks on a UK tour with her critically acclaimed and Edinburgh Fringe sell-out show, Sandhog. Norwich Arts Centre, St. Benedict’s Street, Norwich, NR2 4PG. 01603 660352. norwichartscentre.co.uk 15-23 Feb The 39 Steps Based on John Buchan’s classic whodunit, with an affectionate nod to Hitchcock and a dash of Monty Python, this fun-filled adaptation sees four fearless actors play 139 roles. Maddermarket Theatre, St Johns Alley, Norwich, NR2 1DR. 01603 620917. www.maddermarket.co.uk

15-Feb Film: Valentine’s Special: A Star is Born A musician helps a young singer find fame, even as age and alcoholism send his own career into a downward spiral. Westacre Theatre, River Road, Westacre, PE32 1UD. 01760 755800 www.westacretheatre.com 19-Feb An Evening with Sir Ranulph Fiennes - Living Dangerously Sir Ranulph Fiennes’ many endeavours have pushed his endurance levels to the very limits, inspiring generations and making him a pioneer of exploration with an unparalleled story to tell. Norwich Theatre Royal, Theatre Street, Norwich, NR2 1RL 01603 630000 www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk 21-Feb Russell Kane Packing more energy than a Duracell factory, Russell’s RS Turbo laugh engine will motor through love, family and life - once again proving that the fast and the curious amongst us, see more stuff, and get more done. King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, Tuesday Market Place, King’s Lynn, PE30 1JW 01553 764864 www.kingslynncornexchange.co.uk 22-Feb Be Happy, Harry Hippo Harry Hippo has lost his smile and can’t seem to get it back. No matter what he tries or where he looks, Harry can’t find his smile anywhere. What will he do? Sheringham Little Theatre, 2 Station Road, Sheringham, NR26 8RE. 01263 822347. www.sheringhamlittletheatre.com 24-Feb A Feast of True Stories Storytellers will tell stories inspired by the theme and memorable food related to it. The audience will share the experience of both the story and the food. Norwich Arts Centre, St. Benedict’s Street, Norwich, NR2 4PG. 01603 660352. norwichartscentre.co.uk 25 Feb - 2 Mar Club Tropicana Take a trip back to the electric 80s and embark on a summer of love and smash-hit classics! Norwich Theatre Royal, Theatre Street , Norwich,

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2019 EVENTS Bressingham Steam Museum

Heritage Steam Gala

Saturday 4 May 2019 to Monday 6 May 2019

A celebration of steam at Bressingham Steam Museum. The highlight of Bressingham’s events calendar where there will be over 20 engines in steam each day over this special Bank Holiday Weekend! The Gala will officially welcome vertical boiler 2ft locomotive ‘Fernilee’ to Bressingham. This engine has joined the Bressingham Collection on loan and will be seen throughout the weekend performing a number of duties on the Fen Railway. The museum will be joined by a number of visiting traction engines and steam rollers over weekend. Please visit www.bressingham.co.uk for full listings of the engines

1940s Day

Sunday 12 May 2019

A Celebration of Croft and Perry. Bressingham will once again be supported by the Dad’s Army Appreciation Society as they celebrate 50 years of Dad’s Army. We are pleased to announce that Bressingham will be joined by some of the cast and crew from Croft and Perry sitcoms. Our special guests will be making appearances throughout the day. We are expecting the following actors to attend our 1940s event: Michael Knowles , John Clegg, Frank Williams, Harold Snoad, Ronnie Grainge, Dave Webb, Charles Garland, Felicity Montagu, Jon Pertwee (Son of Bill Pertwee), Nicholas Ridley (Son of Arnold Ridley) & more Bressingham will be full of displays, entertainment and stalls which includes music from Sounds from the era performed by Timescape, Swing & jive from Texas Tommy and the Jitterbug dancers. Living history/ re-enactment groups which include Allied Star Re-enactment group, The Royal Norfolk’s Living History Group. The Ethan Reuban History boys and Airbourne Assault 44 Vehicles: A variety of period vehicles will be on display throughout the museum grounds with support from the Norfolk Military Vehicle Group.

Steampunk Weekend Sat 6 Jul 2019 to Sun 7 Jul 2019

Stalls: There will be a variety of trade stalls including Robert Taylor Military Collectables, vintage hand knits & 1940s Style for You

A fabulous weekend of Norfolk punkery at BresSteam BresSteam. A celebration of all things Steampunk. A festival of the future as Victorians may have imagined it. Splendid costume, creativity, imagination and invention. Amongst Bressingham’s magnificent collection of functioning Steam Engines. Steampunk Market Where you will be able to purchase all manner of exciting Steampunk artefacts, we currently have thirteen traders booked.. Tea Duelling and Umbrella Fencing and more provided by Steampunk Shenanigans.

Nothing up our sleeves An informal collective of highly skilled and sumptuously attired Magicians, Jugglers, Comedians and Comperes.

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NR2 1RL. 01603 630000 www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk 27-Feb Ben Fogle - Adventures in the Wilderness Thrilling tales from a modern day journeyman. From crossing Antarctica to conquering Everest, Ben will take the audience on an inspiring adventure. King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, Tuesday Market Place, King’s Lynn, PE30 1JW. 01553 764864 www.kingslynncornexchange.co.uk 28 Feb - 3 Mar Curtain Up On Murder An amateur drama company is rehearsing in the theatre at the end of the pier. Storms rage overhead and the doors are locked - they are trapped! Events take a sinister turn when a mysterious, ghostly presence passes across the stage, and when the Assistant Stage Manager falls to her death through a trapdoor, the remaining actors are thrown into dissarray. Gorleston Pavilion Theatre, Pier Gardens, Gorleston-on-Sea, Great Yarmouth, NR31 6PP. 01493 662832. gorlestonpavilion.ticketsolve.com MUSIC 15-Feb The ELO Experience Blending rock rhythms with classical influences, ELO also released many classic albums such as A New World Record, Discovery and Out of the Blue, and many sell out tours which further established them as one of the most important and influential bands ever. King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, Tuesday Market Place, King’s Lynn, PE30 1JW. 01553 764864 www.kingslynncornexchange.co.uk 16-Feb The Jive Aces The UK’s No.1 and world’s busiest swing and jive band, The Jive Aces present their biggest theatre show to date, the Big Beat Revue! Princess Theatre, 13 The Green, Hunstanton, PE36 5AH. 01485 532252 www.princesshunstanton.co.uk 16-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. King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, Tuesday Market Place, King’s Lynn, PE30 1JW

01553 764864 www.kingslynncornexchange.co.uk 17-Feb The Classic Rock Show From AC/DC to ZZ Top - including Led Zeppelin, Dire Straits, Queen, The Eagles, Meatloaf and more. Bringing the original recordings back to life on stage, with a huge sound and light show, culminating in a show-stopping guitar duel. Norwich Theatre Royal, Theatre Street, Norwich, NR2 1RL. 01603 630000 www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk 19-Feb Lau The new music was written in Shetland and highlights the continuation of Lau’s experimental approach to folk music with increasingly minimal arrangements in song form which include the themes of togetherness and forgiveness. Norwich Arts Centre, St. Benedict’s Street, Norwich, NR2 4PG. 01603 660352 norwichartscentre.co.uk 22-Feb Pop Divas Live With dazzling choreography, state of the art videos and superb vocals Pop Divas Live! is the perfect pop concert experience for the little divas in your life. King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, Tuesday Market Place, King’s Lynn, PE30 1JW. 01553 764864 www.kingslynncornexchange.co.uk ARTS & EXHIBITIONS Until 21 Feb Dust to Dust Taking inspiration from basic principles of inner-city design, practiced by the ancient Maya, the relationship between soil management and urban life is given centre stage in schemes that inspire to improve the long-term sustainability of cities worldwide. Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts UEA, Norwich, NR4 7TJ. www.scva.ac.uk 9 Feb - 6 Mar Chris Harrison Paintings and photographs inspired by details of North Norfolk. Bircham Gallery, 14 Market Place, Holt, NR25 6BW. 01263 713312. www. birchamgallery.co.uk/exhibitions 19-24 Feb Norfolk Makers’ Festival Join creative people from across Norfolk all keen to share their skills and knowledge. Have a go at a huge range of activities including knitting,

sewing, embroidery, quilting, lace making, sculpting, painting, drawing, printing, felting and much, much more. The Forum, Millennium Plain, Norwich, NR2 1TF. 01603 727950 www.theforumnorwich.co.uk SPECIAL EVENTS 6 & 20 Feb Walk with the Walden Bernard Bishop has been the warden for more than 40 years and is the third generation of his family to work at Cley Marshes. Hear about the history of Cley, how the reserve has changed over time and what life is like as a warden on a coastal nature reserve. Suitable for all walking abilities. Booking essential. £3.50 NWT members, £5 non members. Coast Road, Cley next the Sea, NR25 7SA. 01263 740008 13 Feb - 2 May 2019 Spring Literary Festival The 2019 Spring Literary Festival brings an eclectic mix of today’s best writers, thinkers and speakers to Norwich. This is a festival that revels in the power of the written word to delight, provoke and inspire. University of East Anglia, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, NR4 7TJ www.uea.ac.uk/litfest/tickets 16-23 Feb Scira Viking Festival Various events celebrating the heritage of the Vikings. Sheringham. www.facebook.com/ events/197255157627960/ AUCTIONS & ANTIQUES 17-Feb Loddon Antiques & Collectors Fair Up to 40 general and specialist dealers selling a wide range of good quality antiques and collectables. Admission £1. Jubilee Hall, George Lane, Loddon, NR14 6NB 23-Feb Norfolk Snettisham Fleamarket Around 20 stalls selling antiques, vintage, retro, collectables, curios and more! Open: 9am - 3pm. Admission: 50p (early bird £2) & under 16s free. The Memorial Hall, Old Church Road, Snettisham, PE31 7LX 23-Feb Roydon Antiques & Collectors Fair Open 9.30am-3.30pm. Entry50p, under 14s free. Village Hall, High road, Roydon, Diss, IP22 5RB

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Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t missâ&#x20AC;Ś

the Olney Pancake Race Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time to practice your pancake flipping with the return of the famous Olney Pancake Race. This year the historic race will take place in March with a host of events in the lead up to the big race itself. In the evening the international winner of the pancake race is announced via a web link with Liberal in the Church Hall. Bringing together the community, supported by local businesses, this event is one not to be missed! More details are to be announced soon at www.olneypancakerace.org

What’s on: Beds, Bucks & Herts THEATRE, FILM AND SHOWS 4-9 Feb The Rocky Horror Show ‘The Rocky Horror Show’ is the story of two squeaky clean college kids Brad and his fiancée Janet. When by a twist of fate, their car breaks down outside a creepy mansion whilst on their way to visit their former college professor, they meet the charismatic Dr Frank’n’Furter. Milton Keynes Theatre, Marlborough Gate, Milton Keynes, MK9 3NZ. 0844 8717652 www.atgtickets.com 7-Feb Luke Jermay: Intuition A brand new interactive stage show jam-packed with phenomenal jaw dropping demonstrations of intuition, telepathy and prediction…Quarry Theatre, 26 St Peter’s Street, Bedford MK40 2NN. 01234 362337 www.quarrytheatre.org.uk 8-Feb An Audience With Vinnie Jones This is your chance to be a part of an exclusive event to witness Vinnie Jones reflect on his life and achievements in an amazing atmosphere. Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road, Watford, WD17 3JN. 01923 571 102. www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk 8-Feb The Thinking Drinkers ‘The Thinking Drinkers’ are back on tour with a brand-new, hilarious, intoxicating bar-hop through history. Hertford Theatre, The Wash, Hertford, SG14 1PS. 01992 531500 www.hertfordtheatre.com 10-Feb Andrew Bird: Ha Ha Time Tour If you like your comedy funny then join Andrew for a show jam-packed with observations and stories about marriage, parenthood and the petty grievances of modern life. The Stables, Stockwell Lane, Milton Keynes, MK17 8LU. 01908 280800 www.stables.org 13-16 Feb Oklahoma! Set in Western Indian Territory just after the turn of the 20th century, the spirited rivalry between the local farmers and cowboys provides the

backdrop for the love story between Curly, a handsome cowboy, and Laurey, a beautiful farm girl. Watford Palace Theatre, 20 Clarendon Road, Watford, WD17 1JZ. 01923 235455 www.watfordpalacetheatre.co.uk 15-16 Feb Robin Hood & The Revolting Peasants Find out when Oddsocks rumble in with their rumbustious new adventures of this legendary folk hero in a show for all the family. Quarry Theatre, 26 St Peter’s Street, Bedford, MK40 2NN. 01234 362337 www.quarrytheatre.org.uk 15-Feb Benedict Allen In a brand new show, adventurer-explorer Benedict Allen tells the whole unvarnished truth of his most recent adventure – a solo expedition to Papua New Guinea. Broadway Theatre, Eastcheap, Letchworth Garden City, SG6 3DD 01462 681300 www.broadway-letchworth.com 18-Feb ANiMALCOLM ‘ANiMALCOLM’ combines physical theatre, puppetry and the company’s outstanding storytelling style to bring David Baddiel’s magical and wonderfully comic story to the stage. Broadway Theatre, Eastcheap, Letchworth Garden City, SG6 3DD 01462 681300 www.broadway-letchworth.com 18-23 Feb To Kill a Mockingbird Set in the Deep South, Harper Lee’s Pulitzer Prize-winning novel sees racial injustice envelop a smalltown community. With integrity and compassion, lawyer Atticus Finch seeks the truth. His courageous daughter, Scout, brings hope to a neighbourhood in turmoil. Milton Keynes Theatre, Marlborough Gate, Milton Keynes, MK9 3NZ. 0844 8717652. www.atgtickets.com 18-Feb The Amazing Bubble Man Louis Pearl has been thrilling audiences worldwide for over 30 years with the art, magic, science and fun of bubbles. Rhodes Theatre, 1-3 South Road, Bishop’s Stortford,

CM23 3JG. 01279 710200. www.rhodesbishopsstortford.org.uk 19-23 Feb The History Boys Alan Bennett at his best, not only raising universal questions about the nature of history and how it is taught, but also questions about the purpose of education today. The Court Theatre, Station Road, Tring, HP23 5QY. www.courttheatre.co.uk 20-Feb Sing-a-Long-a The Greatest Showman Experience The Greatest Showman in the greatest way possible - with lyrics on the screen so you can join in as loud as you want. Aylesbury Waterside Theatre, Exchange Street, Aylesbury, HP20 1UG. 0844 871 7607 www.atgtickets.com 20-Feb Jimeoin: Result! An evening of world class stand-up as the Irishman from Australia brings his brilliantly observed, ever-evolving and hilarious comedy to The Stables, fresh from a smash-hit New York off-Broadway season with his latest sell out tour. The Stables, Stockwell Lane, Milton Keynes, MK17 8LU 01908 280800. www.stables.org 21-24 Feb Snooker Shoot Out 2019 It’s the sport’s fast and furious alternative format, with all matches lasting a maximum of 10 minutes. Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road, Watford, WD17 3JN. 01923 571102. www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk 23-Feb The Boy and the Mermaid Join three shanty-singing fishermen as they weave a fishy tale of musical merfolk, menacing monsters and spectacularly bad town planning. Watford Palace Theatre, 20 Clarendon Road, Watford WD17 1JZ. 01923 235455 www.watfordpalacetheatre.co.uk 25 Feb - 2 Mar Trial by Laughter William Hone, the forgotten hero of free speech, was a bookseller, publisher and satirist. In 1817, he stood trial for ‘impious blasphemy and seditious libel’. The only crime he had committed was to be funny.

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Worse than that he was funny by parodying religious texts. And worst of all, he was funny about the despotic government and the libidinous monarchy. Milton Keynes Theatre, Marlborough Gate, Milton Keynes, MK9 3NZ. 0844 8717652 www.atgtickets.com MUSIC 8-Feb Mercury: The Ultimate Queen Tribute Celebrating 20 years on the road in 2019, Mercury are well established as one of the world’s most authentic tributes to the legend that is Freddie Mercury. Aylesbury Waterside Theatre, Exchange Street, Aylesbury HP20 1UG . 0844 871 7607 www.atgtickets.com 9-Feb Pasadena Roof Orchestra Laced with a liberal dose of British humour in its presentation; it is an evening of pure joy for those who love Swing, 20s and 30s music. Rhodes Theatre, 1-3 South Road, Bishop’s Stortford, CM23 3JG. 01279 710200 www.rhodesbishopsstortford.org.uk 9-Feb Pop Divas Live! With dazzling choreography, state of the art videos and superb vocals Pop Divas Live! is the perfect pop concert experience for the little divas in your life. Hertford Theatre, The Wash, Hertford, SG14 1PS. 01992 531500 www.hertfordtheatre.com 14-Feb The Chicago Blues Brothers: Motown Mission Over 40 hits performed live in concert in this high octane party show. The Gordon Craig Theatre, Lytton Way, Stevenage, SG1 1LZ 01438 363200. www.gordon-craig.co.uk 14-Feb Respect to Aretha Life-long Aretha Franklin fan and power-house vocalist Letitia George stars in this uplifting dedication to the Queen of Soul. The Stables, Stockwell Lane, Milton Keynes, MK17 8LU. 01908 280800. www.stables.org 15-Feb Nights on Broadway: The Bee Gees Story The six-piece live band blend the classic hits, acoustic medleys, songs written for other major artists, and

dance floor fillers to tell the story of the Bee Gees from start to finish. The Stables, Stockwell Lane, Milton Keynes, MK17 8LU. 01908 280800 www.stables.org 15-Feb Buddy Holly and The Cricketers Authentic arrangements, driving rhythms, energetic performances and wonderful musicianship, all delivered with charm and humour. Rhodes Theatre, 1-3 South Road, Bishop’s Stortford, CM23 3JG. 01279 710200 www.rhodesbishopsstortford.org.uk 17-Feb The Sensational 60s Experience Six legendary names take to the stage and deliver to you a night never to be forgotten. With the definite feel-good factor, this is must see 60s show. Milton Keynes Theatre, Marlborough Gate, Milton Keynes, MK9 3NZ. 0844 8717652 www.atgtickets.com 24-Feb Elkie Brooks Performing some of her classic hits, blues and jazz, an electric evening with Elkie Brooks is guaranteed to leave you begging for more. Milton Keynes Theatre, Marlborough Gate, Milton Keynes, MK9 3NZ 0844 8717652. www.atgtickets.com ARTS & EXHIBITIONS 4-28 Feb Members’ Show A new display of work from local artists who are members of the Eagle Gallery. The Eagle Gallery, 101 Castle Road, Bedford, MK40 3QP. 01234 346995. www.eaglegalleryartists.co.uk 6 Feb - 15 Mar Liz West: Our Colour Reflection ‘Our Colour Reflection’ uses more than 700 acrylic mirrors of different colours and sizes at different heights to playfully reflect light and project vivid colours up into the historic interior of the Assembly Room. St Albans Museum + Gallery, Market Place, St Peter’s Street, St Albans, AL3 5DJ. www.stalbansmuseums.org.uk 7-Feb Colour Burst: Art and Science Talks Colour Snap closing event: join in to hear from speakers across visual arts and science talking about colour. Art and Design Gallery, University of

Hertfordshire, Hatfield. 01707 281127 SPECIAL EVENTS 1-14 Feb Bishop’s Stortford College Festival of Literature 2019 There will be more speakers than ever before, including a number of returning favourite authors, plus a community and education programme aimed specifically at children and young people. Bishop’s Stortford College, 10 Maze Green Road, CM23 2PJ. 01279 838575 www.bishopsstortfordcollege.org 5 Feb - 7 May themuseum: Take me back Tuesdays Go back in time and delve into the history of Bishop’s Stortford. Look at old photos and chat about your memories of the town. Rhodes Theatre, 1-3 South Road, Bishop’s Stortford, CM23 3JG. 01279 710200 www.rhodesbishopsstortford.org.uk 10-Feb Behind the Scenes – Voyages of Discovery - The Natural History Museum At Tring A rare chance to get up close to historic specimens from the extraordinary travels of Darwin, Wallace, Shackleton and more. The Walter Rothschild Building, Akeman Street, Tring, HP23 6AP. 0207 9426163 www.nhm.ac.uk AUCTIONS & ANTIQUES 17-Feb Ampthill Antiques and Vintage Fair 32 stalls selling China, books, furniture, coins, silver, gold, model trains, cigarette cards, vintage clothing, dress jewellery etc. Entry £1. Open: 9am - 3.30pm. Parkside Hall, Woburn Street, Ampthill, MK45 2HX 17-Feb Biggleswade Antique & Vintage Fair Over 45 stalls selling silver, jewellery of all types, books, small furniture, pictures, advertising, china and tons of vintage. Open: 9.30am - 4pm. Entry £2, free for children under 16 accompanied by an adult.The Weatherley Centre, Eagle Farm Road, Biggleswade, SG18 8JH. 23-Feb Bedfordshire’s Antiques & Collectors Fair Entry £1, children free. Open: 10am- 4pm. St Pauls Church, St Pauls Square, Bedford, MK40 1SQ

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