Eastlife November 2017

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eastlife

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November 2017

Living life in the East

November 2017

Make the most of where you live Issue 150

An extravaganza of non-stop singing, dancing, music, humour and variety. Come and experience the magic of Christmas.




The GLC. Power and finesse combined. Introducing Mercedes-Benz first ever mid-sized SUV for the UK market. A remarkable vehicle, it boasts the muscular looks and capabilities of a 4x4, yet it handles with finesse and agility. Standard features include 4MATIC permanent all-wheel drive while options include the Off-Road Package and AIR BODY CONTROL suspension to further enhance the car’s off-road credentials. Producing 170 hp and 400 Nm of torque, the GLC 220 d 4MATIC clocks 0 to 62 mph in 8.3 seconds. Yet it returns up to 56.5 mpg combined with CO2 emissions as low as 129 g/km.

Official government fuel consumption figures in mpg (litres per 100km) for the GLC range: urban 26.2(10.8)-51.4(5.5), extra urban 40.9(6.9)-60.1(4.7), combined 34.0(8.3)-56.5(5.0). CO2 emissions 189-129 g/km. Whilst this offer is only available through Mercedes-Benz Finance, we do arrange finance on behalf of other finance companies as well. GLC 220 d 4MATIC Sport at £34,802 on-the-road (on-the-road price includes VAT, delivery, 12 months’ Road Fund Licence, number plates, first registration fee and fuel). Specification imagery may show optional features. Content relating to finance is promoted by Mercedes-Benz Finance. Your Retailer may offer finance on behalf of other companies. *Finance offers based on selected GLC models 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 models between 1 October and 31 December 2018, registered by 31 March 2018. 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 print 10/17.

The best or nothing.

Robinsons Mercedes-Benz Mercedes-Benz of Bury St Edmunds 01284 769676

Mercedes-Benz of Cambridge 01223 401100

Mercedes-Benz of Kings Lynn 01553 777307


Representative example GLC 220 d 4MATIC Sport

36 monthly payments of*(Term of agreement)

£349

On-the-road price

£34,802

Customer deposit

£6,899

Retailer deposit contribution

£1,463.85

Optional final payment

£19,200

Total amount of credit

£27,903

Total amount payable

£38,673

††

Purchase activation fee†

5.6%

Representative APR

5.41%

Fixed interest rate

Mercedes-Benz of Norwich 01603 751000

£10.00

Mercedes-Benz of Peterborough 01733 294900

www.yourmercedes.co.uk


ENCHANTED

audley end

Fri 15 – Sat 23 december 4.30pm – 9pm This Christmastime, bring along all the family to a wonderland of colourful lights, festive food and seasonal fun.

• Discover a garden alive with lights • Explore a glittering outdoor trail • Feast on toasted marshmallows • Enjoy atmospheric entertainments

BOOK YOUR TICKETS AT www.english-heritage.org.uk/enchanted

Saffron Walden, Essex CB11 4JF

The English Heritage Trust is a charity, no. 1140351, and a company, no. 07447221, registered in England.


eastlife would like to thank its

CONTRIBUTORS RUBY REED Lifestyle writer GERLA DE BOER Globetrotter foodie

DOLLY OSBORNE Mummy, blogger and frustrated novelist SUE COOKE Motoring journalist TRACEY DEAN Writer and photographer WENDY HOWES Garden columnist KATRINA OTTER Wedding planner extraordinaire COLLETTE HOEFKENS Artist & proprietor at Norton Way Gallery

PUBLISHER Sean Thompson sean@eastlife.co.uk - 01954 267696 EDITOR Emma Kemsley emma@eastlife.co.uk - 01954 267904 PRODUCTION MANAGER Paul Balaam paul@eastlife.co.uk - 01954 268142 SOCIAL MEDIA Nicole Ranaweera nicole@eastlife.co.uk - 07921 235539 ACCOUNTS / ENQUIRIES accounts@eastlife.co.uk - 01954 268129 SALES ENQUIRIES Darren Marshall - 07826 628680 Stewart Hedges - 07595 894557 Jim Leishman - 01954 267635 HEAD OFFICE Unit 4, Avenue Business Park, Elsworth Cambridge, CB23 4EY EASTLIFE is published by Thompson Media Partners Ltd. All rights reserved. Reproduction, in part or in whole, without the written permission of the publisher is strictly prohibited. The views expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of the publisher. All times, prices and dates of events were correct at the time of going to press but readers are advised to ring and check before setting out. Printed by Buxton Press.

A MESSAGE FROM THE EDITOR Dear Reader, It’s starting to look a lot like Christmas (anyone else sing that in their head or was it just me?!) The festive fun begins across the region this month as Christmas lights twinkle into action accompanied by Christmas markets, pop up events, pantomimes and Santa grottos – and we have every county covered! This issue is your guide to Christmas in East Anglia. Our pages are full of festive events and ideas to see you through the next couple of months. This season our cities and market towns are going all out with some of the biggest Christmas markets and spectaculars to date. Just wait until you see what Norwich has in store…turn to page 103 now for the big reveal! There’s so much going on that we couldn’t actually fit everything into the pages of the magazine so we have plenty more articles and events online at www.eastlife.co.uk. You can also share your festive photos with us by using the hashtag #eastlifexmas Best wishes Emma Kemsley

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NOVEMBER 13-17 NEWS FLASH A round-up of monthly news and events

CONTENTS

21-23 CHRISTMAS MARKETS The best festive markets in the region 27-31 CHRISTMAS PARTY VENUES Great ideas for all budgets 43-49 GIFT GUIDE Find the perfect present 51-53 DOG-FRIENDLY Tails About Town & cosy dog-friendly pubs 55-57 LITTLE EAST Mum’s the Word & festive fun 61-67 FOOD & DRINK News, the Cambridge Foodie and Top 5 Farm Shops 70-73 HEALTH Spotlight on National Fertlity Week and foot care

41

75 FASHION It’s the season for umberellas & wellies 79 WEDDINGS How to plan a weekend long wedding 89-95 INTERIORS Kitchens, gardens and property locations 97-99 ARTS Monthly column and arts news 101-111 NORFOLK Is Norwich the best city in the UK? 115-129 BEDS, BUCKS & HERTS Festivities in Hitchin, Olney & Ampthill 131-141 CAMBRIDGESHIRE Christmas in Cambridge 143-147 ESSEX Five reasons to visit Saffron Walden 149-161 SUFFOLK Festive fun in Bury St Edmunds and Woodbridge

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NEWS FLASH

NEWS FLASH

Watch the debut of ‘The Warrier’ at the Norwich Film Festival

Michael Palin will be in attendance at the launch. Image: John Swannell

NORWICH FILM FESTIVAL RETURNS FOR 7TH EDITION A line-up of 100 films will be screened throughout Norwich from 9-19 November as the Norwich Film Festival makes a welcome return.

information they need to break into the business. The event will welcome guests to share their experiences including BAFTA winning sound editor, Eddy Joseph and BAFTA winning screenwriter, Tony Grisoni.

Taking place at The Auditorium at The Forum, unless stated and supported by Norwich BID, a selection of local, British and International films will be shown with the spotlight on local filmmakers with The East Anglian Collection screening and a new East Anglian Award which focuses on showcasing the best in film from Norfolk, Suffolk and Cambridgeshire.

This year’s event also sees the introduction of ‘A Box of Delights’ on 11 November; a collection of award-winning family-friendly animations aimed at children aged 4 to 12. Regional premieres will include Double Date (Benjamin Barfoot), Butterfly Kisses (Rafael Kapelinski), Brakes starring Noel Fielding, and a special screening of Asif Kapadia’s (Amy, Senna) debut film, The Warrior. The BAFTA Shorts Tour will return to close the festival on 19 November.

The festival opens with a screening of ‘A Private Function’ at OPEN with leading actor, Michael Palin in attendance for a Q&A with a Guardian critic. Debuting this year is the Industry Day on 17 November, designed to give new filmmakers all the

Tickets to the launch are now sold out but the full programme and tickets to other events can be purchased at norwichfilmfestival.co.uk

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SHOULD’VE PLAYED AT ST IVES! Did you know we offer: • All Year Golf - Open continuously for over 2 years without any weather closures • Rubber pathways between every Tee-to-Fairway and Green-to-Tee • Play on Full Greens and Tees all Winter! • Floodlit & Covered Driving Range open every day • Indoor coaching available every day

SPECIAL WINTER TRIAL OFFER November – March £200 (£40/month or part thereof)

Unlimited golf, every day of the week. If you like us and decide to become a Full Member for the 2018/19 season – your Winter Trial payment will be deducted from your Annual Membership fee

Contact admin@stivesgolfclub.co.uk or 01480-499920 (Option2) for more details and an Application Form

Web: www.stivesgolfclub.co.uk


REMEMBRANCE SUNDAY AT WOBURN ABBEY To commemorate Remembrance Sunday, The Sculpture Gallery in the grounds of Woburn Abbey will host ‘War Notes from Woburn’ on 12 November. Visitors can enjoy a traditional two course lunch, while listening to ‘War Notes from Woburn’, a poignant blend of vintage songs from a bygone era, plus letters sent to the Duke of Bedford from Bedfordshire soldiers in action, performed by ‘The Songbird of Trafalgar Square’ by Lili la Scala accompanied on the piano by Tom Carradine. Tickets cost £26.50 per person and include a chance to view the venue’s World War I private archive collection. There’s no charge for World War II veterans, War Notes from Woburn on Remembrance Sunday is supported by the Royal British Legion. www.woburnabbey.co.uk/events

SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY BUS IS COMING TO STEVENAGE TOWN! Small Business Saturday UK (SBS), a grassroots and non-commercial campaign that is focused on highlighting small business success and promoting local, independent businesses, has announced that Stevenage will be one of their 25 stops on a nationwide bus tour this autumn. Celebrating its fifth anniversary this year, this campaign is set to be its biggest yet. In the run up to Small Business Saturday itself on 2 December, the bus will be touring 25 selected towns and cities across the country. On Tuesday 14 November, the bus will be stopping in Stevenage Town Centre, from 10am until 2pm, and the SBS team will be collaborating with key regional organisations such as Stevenage Borough Council, The Business & Technology Centre (btc), Wenta, FSB, Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce, Herts Growth Hub, Herts LEP and many more. Available on the day will be free business advice and mentoring, an exhibition of local small businesses from Stevenage, inspiring workshops on subjects such as accounting and social media plus plenty of free giveaways and information on the local business support. Commenting on the bus tour, Leader of Stevenage Borough Council, Cllr Sharon Taylor, said: “This is a wonderful chance to celebrate the small businesses in our town, encourage people to shop locally and

use them, and to highlight the help and support on offer for new ones.” In 2016, customers across the UK spent £717m with small businesses on Small Business Saturday, an increase of 15 per cent on 2015. Over 140,000 tweets were sent on the day reaching 130 million people, trending on Twitter in the UK and globally. Further details of the planned activities on 14 November are to be confirmed. To find out more about how you and your business can get involved in Small Business Saturday or to find out about other Small Business Saturday events happening in and around Stevenage, visit the ‘My Small Business Finder’ at www.smallbusinesssaturdayuk.com

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GARY BARLOW ANNOUNCES FOREST GIGS Gary Barlow is the first artist to be announced as part of Forest Live 2018, the annual summer concert series organised by the Forestry Commission. Gary Barlow, a British singer-songwriter and record producer who found worldwide fame as a member of British pop group Take That will perform at Thetford Forest, near Brandon, Suffolk on Friday 8 June. Tickets are now on sale priced £47.50 at forestry.gov.uk/music

THOMAS COOK RETURNS TO NORWICH FROM SUMMER 2018 Thomas Cook has announced its return to Norwich Airport from summer 2018, launching the city’s only direct flight to Turkey.

This summer has seen a pick-up in demand for Turkey for holidaymakers. It was the third most popular destination for Brits, behind Spain and Greece, and package holiday bookings were up 10 per cent compared to last year.

From 23 May 2018, Thomas Cook will operate a weekly Wednesday flight for holidaymakers from Norwich to Dalaman giving those in the Norfolk area more choice and flexibility for next year’s summer getaways. Flight-only and package holiday options are available to book now.

A seven night holiday package, staying on a bed and breakfast basis at the SunConnect Liberty Hisaronu in Dalaman, departing from Norwich on 23 May 2018 costs from £407 per person. To book visit www.thomascook.com

Endorsed by business and community leaders in each of the areas, project chiefs hope that a united front will add to the overall tourism package and boost visitor numbers across the Wool Towns. David Martin, Treasurer of the Wool Towns and chairman of the Long Melford Business Association, explained: “It provides a perfect platform to pool together a rich history and heritage with fabulous food offerings to suit all tastes, local attractions for all the family and some of the most wonderful places to stay in the whole of Suffolk.”

WOOL TOWNS INITIATIVE AIMS TO RIVAL THE COTSWOLDS A tourism partnership that captures the history of five towns and villages in West Suffolk has been launched. The Wool Towns Association aims to showcase the combined attractions of Clare, Hadleigh, Lavenham, Long Melford and Sudbury – and neighbouring areas - with ambitious plans to publicise an alternative to destinations like the Cotswolds.

The initiative was launched at Kentwell Hall, Long Melford, which saw a special gathering of key partners, dignitaries and interested parties from each of the five communities. A business plan outlining the plan for the Wool Towns and a Community Interest Company have both been established along with a steering committee comprising one member of both the local council and business community from each area. For more information on the Wool Towns Association, visit www.wooltowns.co.uk or follow @wooltowns on Twitter.

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Hertford Farmers’ Market Hertford Farmers’ Market Hertford Farmers’ Market Hertford Farmers’ Market Hertford Farmers’ Market Hertford Farmers’ Market

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nd Every 2ndEvery Saturday in 8.30am 1pm nd 2nd2nd Saturday ininthe month, Every Saturday inthe themonth, month, 8.30am 1pm –– 1pm Saturday the month,–8.30am 1pm Every 22ndEvery Saturday in the month, 8.30am ––8.30am 1pm

Every Tuesday in Ware August 4th & 25th August Every 2nd SaturdayEvery of the2nd month Every Tuesday Thursday in Ware 4th & 25thThursday Saturday of the month

every Saturdayand in Hertford 4pm - 9pm Every 2 - and Saturday in month, 8.30am everythe Saturday in Hertford 4pm - – 9pm1pm 8.30am 1pm Located in Market Place inin Market LocatedLocated inLocated Market Place MarketPlace Place

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Bishop’s Stortford Christmas Fayre North Street, Potter Street, South Street

Saturday 2nd December 2017 9.30am - 4pm

Christmas Market • General Market Farmers and Craft Market • Street Food Visits from Princesses • Stilt Walkers Fun Fair • Santa’s Grotto • Fire Eaters Reindeer • Magicians • Pony Rides Coopers Winter Wonderland Live Music and Performances www.Bishopsstortfordtc.gov.uk 01279 715000

ITVET proudly sponsor the printing of the Christmas Fayre literature and Market Square Christmas Tree


Blackthorpe Barn christmas Festival 2017

r e d n o Wof tmas s i r h C The

Blackthorpe Barn Country Christmas Shop | from 27 October 9.30am-5.30pm British Crafts | 11-12, 18-19, 25-26 Nov 2-3, 9-10, 16-17 Dec 10am-5pm Christmas Trees | from 24 November 9am-5.30pm Workshops | Santa’s Grotto | Walks & Talks | Café Festive Nights | Fri 1 & 8 December 6pm-8pm

www.blackthorpebarn.com J45 A14. Rougham, 3 miles from Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk IP30 9HZ


LIFESTYLE

Christmas Markets Whereever you are in East Anglia there’s a Christmas market for you. So wrap up warm, sip on mulled wine and browse one of the fantastic Christmas markets taking place across the region. NORFOLK Festive Fair at The Forum, Norwich, 24-27 November This four-day Christmas market promises to be an enticing event featuring 50 indoor and outdoor stalls selling East Anglian arts, crafts and produce, perfect for Christmas presents and stocking fillers. There’ll also be live music and winter foods for that added touch of festive cheer. www.visitnorwich.co.uk/whatshappening/event/festive-fair-at-the-forum Etsy Made Local Norwich at The Assembly House, Norwich, 1-3 December This pop up event brings sellers from the popular website Etsy offline and into their local communities. Etsy Made Local Norwich will be the perfect destination for shoppers who want to get ahead of the Christmas rush and find special, handmade gifts - whilst connecting with local designers behind the items!

Norwich Makers Market, St Thomas’ Church Hall, Earlham Road, 25 November Pick up gifts from the city’s best hand picked designers, makers, bakers and illustrators. norwichmakersmarket.weebly.com Deepdale Christmas Market, Burnham Deepdale, North Norfolk, 1-3 December Back for a ninth year, this festive season visit Deepdale Christmas market to find a variety of wonderful presents and decorations from over 120 independent artisans, producers and traders who you won’t find anywhere else. With over 100 stalls, entertainment and activities, this is a really wonderful day out for the whole family. www.dalegatemarket.co.uk/christmas-market Sandringham Christmas Fair at Sandringham Park, 17-19 November With everything from pottery and sculpture to cakes and nibbles, there’s sure to be something for everyone to enjoy in the beautiful surroundings of Sandringham Estate. www.livingheritagecraftshows.com. SUFFOLK A Magical Christmas Treat at Blackthorpe Barn, 27 October – 22 December Every year the heavy oak doors of Blackthorpe Barn, in Rougham just outside Bury St Edmunds, are drawn back during November and December to unveil a truly magical Christmas experience for all to enjoy. Enter the Country Christmas Shop, open everyday from 27 October until 22 December and see the glorious displays of everything Christmassy with decorations, gifts, treats and aromas that transform you back to your childhood. The magic

Christmas at Blackthorpe Barn

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continues to the amazing Santa’s Grotto, the Best of British weekend craft market and workshops taking place each weekend from 11 November and for six weekends thereafter, and the famous Rougham Estate Christmas Trees, grown in special plantations nearby. www.blackthorpebarn.com Lavenham Christmas Fair, Market Place, 1-3 December A seasonal feast for the senses! Enjoy music and entertainment, browse gifts from local craftsmen and tuck into festive food. There will be fun fairs, reindeers and Father Christmas for the little ones and the chance to enjoy a guided lantern walk around the medieval village. www.discoverlavenham.com Ipswich Christmas Craft and Food Fair at Suolk Showground, 4-5 November A wide range of Christmas and seasonal goodies including art, craft, design, food and drink. Plus live reindeers will add to the atmosphere! www. oakleighfairs.co.uk/ipswich-christmas-crafts-food-fair CAMBRIDGESHIRE Ely Christmas Gift and Food Fair, 17-18 November Now in its sixth year, the fair has established itself as one of the most popular in East Anglia. Set in the beautiful Ely Cathedral, the market features local tradesmen and stalls great for finding the perfect gift as well as demonstrations such as festive cake

decorating and seasonal floral arrangements. www.elycathedral.org/events/christmas-gift-food-fair Mill Road Winter Fair, Cambridge, 2 December Every year on the first Saturday of December, Mill Road in Cambridge is transformed into a winter wonderland. Browse the market stalls and tuck into festive food, while colourful parades, musicians and dancers provide the Christmas cheer! www.millroadwinterfair.org Peterborough Christmas Market Village, 18-23 December Surrounded by historic buildings and dazzling lights, the festive market rivals those found in Europe. Made up of 14 pretty Christmas chalets and 30 traders in their German style huts, visitors can shop, eat and be merry! www.peterborough-christmas-market.co.uk

St Albans Christmas Market

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HERTFORDSHIRE St Albans Christmas Market, 25 November – 23 December This market gets bigger and better every year. The European style market has around 50 chalets and stalls selling gifts, crafts, food and decorations set among the twinkly lights of the walled Vintry Garden adjacent to the magnificent Cathedral. www.enjoystalbans.com The Frost Fair at Hatfield House, 16-19 November This fair has everything great about Christmas! Held in the Old Palace, Riding School, Stable Yard and heated marquees on the Palace Green, pop along and browse up to 200 stands of gifts and watch craft demonstrations, stop at the Fine Food Fair for mouthwatering treats and enjoy live entertainment throughout the day. There’s also drop in workshops and Father Christmas will be making an appearance! www.hatfield-house.co.uk/event/the-frost-fair Deepdale Farm Christmas Market

Ware Dickensian Evening, 2 December Last year over 10,000 people flocked to this festive event. Taking over the town centre, there will be stalls, entertainment for adults and children, late night shopping and the switching on of the mighty horse-chestnut tree in Tudor Square. www.dickensian.org.uk BEDFORDSHIRE Carrie’s Christmas Handmade & Vintage Fair in Ampthill, 19 November Coinciding with the Christmas light switch on, the fair offers a great selection of all things handmade and vintage, perfect for one-off gifts! The event takes place at the Stables venue at the rear of the White Hart Hotel. www.facebook.com/pg/Carriesfairs/events Made in Bedford’s Christmas Artisan Fair, 19 November Taking place at the Bedford Corn Exchange, 10am-4pm, the event brings together the very best of local craftsmen and tradesmen. Enjoy mulled wine and mince pies while browsing beautiful local made things all under one roof. www.facebook.com/madeinbedford

ESSEX The Germans Christmas Market at Meadow Croft Garden, 6 November – 24 December Promising to bigger and better than the previous two years, stop by the Meadow Croft Garden in Battlesbridge and soak up the festive atmosphere complete with German beer, Gluhwein and market stalls. meadow-croft.co.uk/german-market Christmas Winter Wonderland Weekend at Blake House Craft Centre, 2-3 December The ultimate Christmas shopping extravaganza, browse stalls offering gifts, crafts, décor, homewares and food. www.blakehousecraftcentre.co.uk Handmade at Hylands, 23 November Escape the stress of the High Street and join the resident artists at Hylands House for a wonderful Christmas shopping evening in Hylands beautiful Stables Courtyard. Purchase handmade art, gifts and decorations whilst sipping mulled wine and enjoying the free festive entertainment. www.chelmsford.gov.uk

Discover more Christmas markets at www.eastlife.co.uk #eastlifexmas

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It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas.. . and we can’t wait to share your special Christmas day luncheon, Christmas parties and New year’s eve with you! Whether you are celebrating with your team at work or simply looking to get together with friends and family around this festive time, contact the team on 01376561453 to book your Christmas party! Now taking bookings for New Year’s Eve, where we will have live sounds of jazz, Bublé & swing to party our way out of 2017!!!

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Party Time! Written by Jasmin Rusted jasminrusted.wordpress.com

If the task of picking the Christmas party venue has fallen onto you this year, don’t panic, we have some fabulous ideas for a super seasonal soiree… Christmas, the word should light your face up with pure festive excitement and joy. But it’s easy to let the long list of things to do, from gift shopping to Christmas dinner prepping, get in the way of being able to enjoy the best of the seasonal activities East Anglia has to offer. Here are our chosen venues for all occasions to really get into the Christmas spirit this year, with overnight stays, girl’s days out, something for the family, something a bit quirky and a hearty roast for all to enjoy: Wonderful Woburn Summer may be long gone, but that doesn’t mean that the time for a getaway is over. Treat yourself to a visit to Woburn Abbey in Bedfordshire. The Sculpture Gallery will be hosting a number of festive lunches in the lead up to the big day, plus private and joiner party options. But it doesn’t stop there; by booking a night at the Woburn Hotel you will have plenty of time to explore the Georgian village of Woburn, as well as being able to enjoy the carol service in the Abbey attached to the estate. A perfect cosy trip away in a stunning location, with a long list of sights to see just around the corner. Visit www.thewoburnhotel.co.uk for all Christmas packages. Girls weekend Planning a Christmas girls do? Then get yourself down to the oh so relaxing Ufford Park spa in Woodbridge, Suffolk. A health spa that offers

a range of different pampering options to help you and the girls unwind and take a step back from the busy Christmas planning. Winter is sure to take its toll on your skin, so let the facial and body treatments that are on offer, boost you up and get everyone feeling their best. But don’t worry the experience isn’t over after your relaxing treatments, Ufford Park also includes the Park Bar and Restaurant which allows you and your friends to further indulge in an extensive wine list as well as a variety of seasonal dishes to round off your day in delicious style. Further details available at www.uffordpark.co.uk A classic Christmas As a quintessential British dish, everyone loves a roast, and if the sound of food has got your stomach rumbling maybe it’s time to book in for a Christmas dinner at one of Norfolk’s favourite restaurants – The Maids Head. Situated in Norwich’s more historical elements of the city: Tombland, this Grade II listed building claims to be the oldest hotel in the UK.

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STEP INTO CHRISTMAS AT THE WHITE LION, ALDEBURGH There is plenty to enjoy this festive season... Festive Christmas Lunches - 1-23 December Festivi-tea - daily from 3pm - 5pm in December Lunch with Santa - Sunday 3 December Ladies Lunch - Monday 4 December Christmas Party Nights - 8/9 December Boxing Day Lunch - £35 per person Settle in for Christmas – 3 night break from £550 per person Two night new year break from £330 per person

If we can help to entertain you. please call 01728 452720 or visit whitelion.co.uk White Lion Hotel, Market Cross Place, Aldeburgh IP15 5BJ


Runaway and join the circus For something a bit different the Dream Circus has returned to Essex this December as part of Best Parties Ever, awaiting your Christmas party bookings. The perfect way to inject some quirky Christmas cheer into the annual work do. With an elegant cocktail bar, Christmas crackers and a monumental amount of diverse entertainment, it’s a completely different approach to the traditional Christmas party. What’s more there’s still chance to win a table for 10 at the event worth £500...enter our competition at www.eastlife.co.uk/article/win-a-table-at-bestparties-ever-barleylands - hurry, the closing date is 3 November!

Christmas at The Sculpture Gallery

So there you have it, five different Christmas venues and events to spark some inspiration to venture into the freezing British winter this December. Get planning to make the most out of your Christmas!

With plenty of history and character surrounding the place, it’s no surprise that the food is no disappointment. Get the whole family involved with their Santa’s Sunday Lunch Club, a one off event on the 10 December that doesn’t only provide a fabulous lunch for all, but also a visit from Santa Claus that will bring some Christmas cheer and excitement for the kids. A real treat for the whole family. Book your place at www.maidsheadhotel.co.uk Christmas by the sea Just because summer is over, it doesn’t mean the Suffolk coast is out of bounds, in fact Aldeburgh becomes home to a magical atmosphere of twinkling lights, a giant Christmas tree and shops overflowing with gifts. At the centre of the seasonal spirit is the White Lion Hotel on the seafront, which is going all out this festive season. Entertainment includes a Santa Sunday on 3 December, Ladies Lunch with festive crafts on 4 December, all singing all dancing fun party nights from 8-9 December, and sparkling afternoon teas by the sea and a great value festive lunch in the family-friendly Brasserie Bleue throughout December. For more details visit www.whitelion.co.uk The White Lion Hotel, Aldeburgh

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BOOK YOUR CHRISTMAS AND NEW YEAR’S EVE PARTY NIGHTS AT THE DOLPHIN HOTEL Carvery Dinner Dance Party Nights 2017 Will be held on the following dates: 2nd, 8th, 9th 15th, 16th and 22nd December The Christmas Carvery Menu will be served in The Waterside Restuarant with dancing until Midnight to The Sparkarama Roadshow.

New Year’s Eve 2017 Carvery Dinner & Disco in the waterside restuarant with dancing until 1.00am to The Sparkarama Roadshow.

A glass of Prosecco of arrival

£38.00 per person (over 18s only)

The

DOLPHIN Hotel

London Road, St Ives, Cambs, PE27 5EP

Call: 01480 466966 Fax 01480 495597 www.dolphinhotelcambs.co.uk

The King’s Head Restaurant in Ivinghoe 2017 Festive Menu £29.95

Make merry with your friends, family and colleagues in our delightful Banqueting Suite. The perfect location for up to 40 guests. Tel: 01296 668388 reservations@kingsheadivinghoe.co.uk www.kingsheadivinghoe.co.uk


G R E AT N O R T H E R N H O T E L

CHRISTMAS The Great Northern Hotel invites you to enjoy Christmas with the historical charm, elegance & emotion that makes for lasting “Great” memories. Welcome guests since 1852, we know a thing or two about festive fun Whether you are looking for a Christmas Lunch, Party Night, Private Party or Family get together. Speak to our Events Co-ordinator who will arrange your perfect festive event.

Station Approach, Peterborough,Cambridgeshire PE1 1QL

01733 850811

www.gnhotel.co.uk events@gnhotel.co.uk

Christmas Menu Starters

Zuppa di Zucca e Dolcelatte - Cream of butternut squash and dolcelatte cheese soup, served with toasted croutons. Gamberoni in Tempura - Sicilian king prawns in a light tempura batter accompanied by an aiolì dip. Bruschetta ai Funghi - Toasted ciabatta bread topped with sautéed mixed mushrooms and soft taleggio cheese. Scottata d’Anatra - Seared duck breast served with a winter berry dressing.

Main course

Tacchino all’Inglese - Roasted turkey breast with sage and onions stuffing, served with chipolata sausage and gravy. Agnello alla Mediterraneo - Slow cooked lamb, in a sauce of cumin, tumeric, white wine, and tomato, garnished with wild mushrooms and slow cooked peppers. Salmone - Roasted fillet of salmon in a prosecco, dill and baby prawns sauce. Norma al Forno - Paccheri pasta oven baked in a tomato sauce and diced aubergines topped with smoked mozzarella.

Dessert

Pannacotta - Christmas pudding panna cotta with a wild Berries coulis. Bread & Butter Pudding - Italian style bread and butter pudding made with panettone, served with custard. Mousse di Cioccolato e Arancia - Orange infused chocolate mousse. Tiramisù - Traditional homemade tiramisù made with a mascarpone, marsala and zabaglione cream with a dash of rum. Filter coffee or Tea - £27.95 per person

The Christmas menu will be available upon pre-order only. We will require a deposit of £10 per person upon reservation. The Christmas menu will be available for parties of minimum 6 people. 10% service charge will be added to the final bill.

Are you looking for an unrivalled Italian fine dining experience in Bedfordshire? The Green Man is a family-run restaurant at the heart of Bedfordshire, dedicated to delivering authentic Italian fine dining using the freshest ingredients.

Authentic Italian Cuisine Our seasonal a la carte menu includes a wide range of Italian delights, combining classic rustic tastes with contemporary cooking methods and presentation techniques to bring you an exquisite dining experience. You can also perfectly complement your meal with one of our specially-selected wines from some of the finest vineyard regions in Italy.

01525 860 352 thegreenmanclophill@ yahoo.co.uk The Green Man, The Green, Clophill, Bedford, MK45 4AD


BoyBand a1

The RighT honouRaBle STaR of Strictly

Mark read aladdin

ann WiddecoMbe

Fenton Gray

terry Gleed

Mia richards

June Glennie school oF dance DirecteD by

richard cheshire helen Jeckells

choreographeD by


It’s that time of year...

Oh yes it is!

Written by Shelley Beth www.shelleybeth.com

It’s almost time for Panto season! So gather your friends and family, practice your boo-ing and indulge in this thoroughly British tradition CAMBRIDGESHIRE Broadway Peterborough Aladdin, 15 – 31 December Head to Peking by way of Peterborough! Prepare to be wowed by live musicians, impressive costumes and a dazzling set. On 14 December Broadway Theatre are teaming up with Shine for a charitable preview performance. thebroadway.today Cambridge Arts Theatre Jack and The Beanstalk, 30 November - 7 January Jack, Daisy and the rest of the Trott’s are taking you

on the adventure of a lifetime! This star studded cast includes Tony Christie, Liza Goddard and Stephen Beckett to name a few. There are BSL interpreted, relaxed and audio described performances too. cambridgeartstheatre.com Cambridge Junction Rapunzel, 5 - 31 December Expect danger, delight and one angry witch in a fresh take on this Brother Grimm classic. Head on a journey with Rapunzel as she experiences love and the great outdoors for the first time. There are relaxed and BSL interpreted performances too. junction.co.uk ESSEX Mercury Theatre Colchester Snow White and Seven Dwarves, 25 November 14 January Mirror Mirror on the wall who is the fairest of them all? A west end packed cast and seven puppets will be answering just that! You can head backstage for a tour on 9 December, there are relaxed, signed, audio described performances, touch tours and an adults only performance too. mercurytheatre.co.uk Princes Theatre Clacton Beauty and the Beast, 13 December – 1 January Be their guest and sing your heart out to the modern soundtrack of this classic fairytale. TOWIE’s Dan Osbourne heads up the cast along with a special guest - Clacton’s panto pooch! There will be a relaxed performance with signing as well. princestheatre.ticketsolve.com Cliffs Pavilion, Southend-on-sea Jack and the Bean Stalk, 16 December - 7 January Spectacular 3D sequences will transport audiences from Southend to the magic kingdom. This star

Ben Langley & Richard Gauntlett star in Norwich Theatre Royal’s Sleeping Beauty

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studded panto cast features Lee Mead, Stacey Solomon, Bobby Davro and Robin Askwith. There are signed and relaxed performances too. southendtheatres.org.uk Palace Theatre, Southend-on-sea Sinbad the Seaman - The Adult Panto, 5-6 January The Market Theatre company are back with this adult only panto that tells the story of a sailor and his adventures across the seven seas to defeat the one-eyed monster. It’s packed full of raunchy plots, sexual innuendoes and fascicle fun. southendtheatres.org.uk Civic Theatre, Chelmsford Snow White, 29 November – 7 January This classic fairy-tale will enthral audiences as they ‘boo’, ‘hiss’ and scream ‘he’s behind you’ for another spellbinding feast of festive fun brought to you by the Civic Theatre, One From The Heart and M&G Investments. There will be a range of performance times in the morning, afternoon and early evening, plus special relaxed performance on 4 January at 2pm. www.chelmsford.gov.uk/theatres BEDFORDSHIRE Grove Theatre, Dunstable Sleeping Beauty, 8 December - 2 January John Partridge, Sally Lindsay and Rebecca Keatley bring this classic tale to life with a lavish set, special effects and heaps of audience participation! There will be an audio described and captioned performance too. grovetheatre.co.uk

HERTFORDSHIRE Alban Arena St Albans Aladdin, 7 December – 7 January Hop on a magical carpet to the far east with Karl Howman, Phil Gallagher, Bob Golding and a whole host of west end stars. Expect an all-singing, alldancing performance complete with extravagant costumes. alban-arena.co.uk Wyllotts Theatre, Potters Bar Cinderella, 13 - 31 December You shall go to the ball this Christmas! But will Cinders make it too? This classic panto has a live musical soundtrack and stunning costumes. wyllyottstheatre.co.uk

Snow White at the Civic Theatre

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Campus West Welwyn Garden City Beauty and the Beast, 9 - 31 December This enchanting fairytale is set to warm audience’s hearts and lift their spirits. Head on a journey of laughter, mayhem and mystery to discover if love will conquer all! There are two adults-only performances on 28 and 29 December. cwentertainment.co.uk NORFOLK Norwich Theatre Royal Sleeping Beauty, 13 December - 14 January Gillian Wright, Richard Gauntlett and Ben Langley head up the cast for this much-loved fairytale. Expect extravagant costumes, heaps of fun, laughs and boo’s a-plenty! There are audio described, signed, captioned and relaxed performances too. Tickets sell out fast, but we’ve teamed up with Norwich Theatre Royal to offer one lucky reader the chance to win a family ticket (for two adults and two children) for Sleeping Beauty on Friday 15 December at 7.30pm. To win simply follow us on Twitter and Retweet our pantomime tweet – it’s that easy! theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk Sheringham Little Theatre Wizard of Oz, 9 December - 1 January She’s not in Kansas anymore Toto, she’s in Sheringham! Head down the yellow brick road with Dorothy and Co. this Christmas. Red sparkly shoes are optional of course. sheringhamlittletheatre.com King Lynn Corn Exchange Jack and the Beanstalk, 8 - 31 December Head up the beanstalk with Ian Reddington and KLFM’s own ‘Posh Charles’. Audiences will join Jack and his friends on the adventure of a lifetime to battle the evil giant. There are relaxed and signed performances too. kingslynncornexchange.co.uk SUFFOLK Theatre Royal Bury St Edmunds Dick Whittington, 1 December —14 January Brave Dick Whittington is leaving Suffolk to make his fortune in London and he’s taking you along for the ride! This traditional family panto promises magic, music, fun and laughter. There’s a special Gala performance, a BSL signed performance and a relaxed performance too. www.theatreroyal.org

Gillian Wright stars in Sleeping Beauty

Marina Theatre Lowestoft Aladdin, 13 December – 1 January Ann Widdwcombe, Mark Read and Terry Gleed are hopping on the magic carpet for an adventure to the far east. Expect oodles of silliness, plenty of laughs and surprises along the way. marinatheatre.co.uk Beccles Public Hall Robin Hood, 22 December - 1 January Embark on a swashbuckling adventure through Sherwood Forest with Rebecca Jennings, Thom Bailey and Daniel Hanton. Expect slapstick comedy and plenty of audience participation! Ipswich Regent Jack and The Beanstalk, 16 December - 2 January Britain’s Got Talent’s George Sampson plays Jack in this adaptation of the children’s classic. Head to the castle in the clouds with Roxanne Pallet, Connor Byrne, Andrew Flemming and the rest of the star studded cast. Fe Fi Fo Fum it’ll be singing, dancing and laughter for everyone! apps.ipswich.gov.uk

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B NO oo W k !

PRODUCTIONS

and the A magical family panto! 9 - 3 1 December 2017 cwentertainment.co.uk

The Campus, Welwyn Garden City, AL8 6BX

/cwewgc

@cwewgc

Hatfield

Christmas Lights Switch On

Saturday 18th November - 2pm to 5.30pm

and the A magical family pantomime

Come and meet

‘Beauty’ & ‘Dame Dolly’

from the Welwyn Hatfield Pantomime

MEET SANTA & HIS REINDEER FROM 2PM OTHER ACTIVITIES ON THE DAY: FOOD FACE PAINTING ARTS & CRAFTS STALLS LIGHTS STAGE PERFORMANCES & FUN FAIR

PRODUCTIONS The Campus, Welwyn Garden City, AL8 6BX

www.hatfieldtown.co.uk


CHRISTMAS christmas FROST FAIR frost fair CHRISTMAS

FINE FOODS CRAFTS & GIFTS EXQUISITE PRESENTS EXQUISITE PRESENTS FESTIVE ENTERTAINMENT FINE FOODS DROP IN XMAS WORKSHOPS FESTIVE ENTERTAINMENT & GIFTS STABLE YARDCRAFTS RETAILERS THE HATFIELD GIFT SHOP CHRISTMAS EXQUISITE PRESENTS GIFTS,FATHER CRAFTS & FINE FOODS

FROST FAIR

ENTERTAINMENT DROP IN FESTIVE XMAS WORKSHOPS Over 200 exhibitors DROP XMAS WORKSHOPS STABLE YARDIN RETAILERS 10.00 - 5.00 Friday, Saturday & Sunday YARD 21st, 22ndSTABLE & 23rd November 2014 RETAILERS FATHER CHRISTMAS FATHER CHRISTMAS

Adults £5.00 Accompanied children free

Held in The Old Palace, Riding School, Stable Yard

& Heated Marquees on Palace Green 10:00 am – 5:00 pm

Over 200 exhibitors

Thursday, Friday, Saturday & Sunday Organised by SupportingSaturday & Sunday Friday, th Bloomfield, ,www.battenburgevents.co.uk, 17 , 18th 10.00 & 19th- 5.00 of November 2017 16thCliff 21st, 22nd & 23rd November 2014 for Hatfield House, www.hatfield-house.co.uk. Adults £8 Accompanied Adults children (under 16) Free children free £5.00 Accompanied Held in& The Old Palace, School, Stable Yard bullk ticketsRiding available Discounted advance & Heated Marquees on Palace Green

ORGANISED BY: Battenburg Events Ltd, www.battenburgevents.co.uk

www.frostfair.co.uk

Supporting:

Organised by

Supporting

Cliff Bloomfield, www.battenburgevents.co.uk, for Hatfield House, www.hatfield-house.co.uk. Follow Battenburg Events on


Kindly Sponsored by

Proudly supporting

Sunday 19th November The Cambridge Market Square From 12:00 Adult & children’s choirs, dance troupes, street performers, Cambridge Jazz Festival and much much more NSPCC supporter and former Hollyoaks actress Katherine Kingsley will be officially turning on the Christmas lights in Market Square


The Switch On The festive season truly begins when the Christmas lights across the region twinkle into action. Accompanied by a day or evening of festive fun, read our guide to the best wintery Christmas lights switch-ons in the east….

Cambridge, 19 November Bigger and brighter than ever before, watch the city come alive with Christmas cheer. The funpacked day includes a lively line-up of festive family entertainment. www.cambridgebid.co.uk

Norwich, 16 November, 6pm-10pm Watch the streets of Norwich sparkle and shine with live music and entertainment aplenty, plus a Father Christmas parade. www.visitnorwich.co.uk

Peterborough, 18 November Start your Christmas shopping and watch Queensgate Shopping Centre turn on its festive lights.

Holt, 15 November, 6.30pm The historic town will become a fairy tale of lights as the community comes together to host a seasonal spectacular of festive food, fun and fireworks. www.holtchristmaslights.org

St Neots, 26 November The evening includes a Christmas food and gift market, mulled wine and cider stall, live music, Santa’s grotto, funfair and fireworks grand finale.

Burnham Market, 18 November, 6pm An evening of festive entertainment accompanied by late night shopping. www.burnhammarket.co.uk Great Yarmouth, 24 November, 6pm Celebrate the arrival of Santa, live music and entertainment with the switching-on of the town’s lights at 7pm. www.gytcp.co.uk/events Ipswich, 16 November, 4.30pm Coinciding with the town’s first late night shopping date, the switch on is at 7.45pm. Beccles, 24 November, 5.30pm-9pm The evening will be filed with festive treats such as stalls, food and drink, live music and rides. beccleschristmaslights.co.uk Southwold, 25 November Watch Father Christmas flick the switch on the coastal town’s Christmas lights. Felixstowe, 2 December, 5pm Combined with a craft market, Santa’s grotto, carol singing and children’s candlight parade.

Huntingdon, 1 December The Christmas light switch on kick starts a three-day festive market. Brentwood, 25 November, 1pm-5.30pm The High Street will be closed for fun and festivities including live entertainment, stalls from local traders and fair ground rides. www.brentwood.gov.uk Southend on Sea, 18 November, 11am-8pm A fun packed day of festive entertainment leading up to the big switch on! www.visitsouthend.co.uk Hertford, 24 November, 3.30pm-8pm The annual event includes markets, entertainment, performance stage, reindeers, Christmas grotto and the switch on. www.hertford.gov.uk Welwyn Garden City, 16 November Festive activities with the switch on at 6.30pm. St Albans, 26 November, 12noon – 6pm The light switch on and entertainment will begin the city’s Christmas shopping season. Look out for the European inspired Christmas market featuring 50 traditional wooden chalets, taking place until 23 December. www.enjoystalbans.com

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shopping A

A DV E N T U R E

Braintree Freeport


The Ultimate I Gift Guide

t’s the most wonderful time of the year, but finding the perfect present can be tricky. If you’re in need of a little inspiration, we’ve pulled together a selection of gorgeous gifts to suit all budgets…

Gift Guide for Women It wouldn’t be Christmas without new lingerie. Shop the Aubade Fleurs de Plaisir; a floral print on ultra-soft microfibre knit is paired with a geometric motif that adds a modern touch to the line. Prices: Bras from £88, Briefs from £41 Stockist: Elouise Lingerie, 40 High Street, Buckden, St Neots www.elouiselingerie.co.uk You can never have too much make-up, add to the collection with the Bobbi Brown On Trend Hot Lips Set. Price: £35 Stockist: House of Fraser www.houseoffraser.co.uk

Based in Ampthill, Beds, Nolattie Candles have created a range of distinctive scents perfect for filling your home with festive smells this season. Price: £20 Stockist: The Cooks collection, Lola Bears boutique, Ampthill Fireplaces, Catherine Hart Beauty & The Wardrobe - all Ampthill www.nolattie.co.uk Moving from their Norwich Lanes shop to offer Sensory Beauty Events and online retailing, Palm&Sole will be re-launching their website in November. Visit the website and pick up this present, perfect for those looking to relax and unwind on a cold winter’s evening. Price: £25 (200ml) Stockist: www.palm-and-sole.com

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Eastlife Magazine Oct 17 Gifting V2.pdf 1 10/24/2017 10:07:58 AM

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Add a little sparkle with the John Lewis Dogeared Celebrate Love Necklace Price: £59 Stockist: John Lewis, Cambridge

We all know a cat-lover that would adore this Cath Kidston mug! Price: £12 Stockist: Cath Kidston, 21 Castle St, Norwich www.cathkidston.com

Raise a glass to Christmas with this stocking filler from George Home. Price: £3 Stockist: George Home www.george.com

Designed and made by Hitchin based Betsy Rose Jewellery, this pendent is a great stocking filler! Price: £22 Stockist: The Coal Store, Hitchin www.betsyrose.co.uk

Present problems are solved with Bedfordshire’s ‘Box by Lucy’. Choose either a pre-made gift box or items from their range for the perfect package for your loved one! Price: £15.99 - £115 Stockist: www.boxbylucy.co.uk

Make a style statement with the Dita Tassel cross body bag. Price: £20 Stockist: Accessorize uk.accessorize.com

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VK GALLERY Fine Art & Contemporary Craft

Find the perfect gift at VK this Christmas... 18a Bridge Street, St Ives, Cambridgeshire PE27 5EG info@vkgallery.co.uk 01480 498130 www.vkgallery.co.uk @VK_Gallery /vkgallery1 Cambridgeshire (2, 3, 4, 5)_Cambridgeshire 25/08/2015 16:38 Page 1

eve st clair of Long Melford Autumn Winter collections now in! Fantastic collections from Marble Emreco Robell Barbara Lebek Pomodoro Tulchan and more. Find your perfect Christmas gift from our exciting selection of scarves, hats and jewellery. Gift vouchers and gift wrapping available.

The Old Pharmacy, Hall Street, Long Melford, Suffolk CO10 9JQ

INDULGE YOURSELF

Opening hours: Mon - Sat 10am - 5pm

Buy Online www.elouiselingerie.co.uk

01787 312182

Whether you’re after the perfect piece for an exclusive event, the holiday of a lifetime or simply because you deserve a treat, Elouise Lingerie has a stunning collection that is hard to match. The Cambridgeshire-based designer boutique stocks sophisticated lingerie from international brands, along with glamorous swimwear, luxury nightwear and fine hosiery - everything you need to feel extra special. Gift-wrapping available.

Elouise Lingerie, 40 High Street, Buckden, Cambs PE19 5XA Telephone: 01480 812740 Email: sales@elouiselingerie.co.uk

info@evestclair.com


Gift Guide for Men Coffee time just got even better with the Smarter Wifi Coffee Machine! Price: £179 Stockist: www.amazon.co.uk

Your partner will never forget a thing with this stylish notebook. Price: £9.99 Stockist: very.co.uk

LIGHTS, CAMERA, ACTION! Make the most of movie night! Price: £8 Stockist: Sainsbury’s www.sainsburys.co.uk

A small addition to your attire can instantly up your style. This Tiger’s Eye bracelet is handcrafted in Suffolk, using the finest semi-precious gemstones and sterling silver. Price: £22 Stockist: Baxter & Baxter, Quay Point, Station Road, Woodbridge

The perfect gift for gin fans! This hamper, presented in a 20’’ wicker basket, features Norfolk, Black Shuck and Pell & Co Hopton Gin, plus a range of tonics, Joe & Seph’s Gin & Tonic Caramel Sauce, two gin glasses and Charbonnel et Walker Sipsmith Gin Truffles! Price: £125 Stockist: Bakers and Larners of Holt, 8-10 Market Place, Holt www.bakersandlarners.co.uk

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New Autumn Collections In Store Now 11 Market Place, Southwold, Suffolk, IP18 6EA Open 7 Days | 01502 722372 | info@dennyofsouthwold.co.uk Seahorse StudioAdforUNN1#AW:Layout 1 09/05/2017 11:37 Page 1

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1 Albert Street, Holt NR25 6HX

Creative Chocolate Workshops

01263 478020 www.seahorsestudio.co.uk

1 Albert Street, Holt NR25 6HX seahorsestudio@icloud.com

November 4th Paint a Fizzing Firework Bar 25th Make an Advent Calendar December Christmas Gifts Chocolate Table & Tree Decorations

Gift Vouchers available for Workshops and Masterclasses Call us on 01638 660503 to book a workshop. cheryl@artistryincocoa.co.uk NEW ADDRESS: 25 Granby Street, Newmarket, Suffolk, CB88HE www.artistryincocoa.co.uk

01263 478020

Find me on Facebook! Unique glass beads, www.seahorsestudio.co.uk www.facebook.com/ seahorsestudio@icloud.com jewellery and gifts Findseahorsestudioholt me on Facebook!

Unique glass beads, jewellery and gifts

www.facebook.com/ seahorsestudioholt


It can be hard to keep up with ever-changing children’s fads, but stick with this guide and you’ll be sure to put a smile on their face!

They’ll never moan about bedtime again with these fun customisable childrenswear craft kits from Selfie Clothing.

Price: £28 Stockist: Fenwick, 152 High St, Colchester www.fenwick.co.uk/stores/colchester

The RazorX Cruiser is a lithium powered electric skateboard that puts skateboarding firmly in the 21st century! It achieves speeds of up to 10mph and the battery packs provide up to 40 minutes of continuous use!

Price: £249.99 Stockist: Available 1 November from Argos, Skatehut Beautiful boots for a mini fashionista! Price: £15 Stockist: Matalan, www.matalan.co.uk

Find out who rules the house in this fun family-friendly game! Stockist: Marks & Spencer www.marksandspencer.com

Spark your little one’s imagination with FieldCandy Little Campers Play Tent Stories. There’s a choice of designs available including a Vintage Carousel, Once Upon a Time and limited edition Gingerbread House – it’s guaranteed to keep them quiet for hours! Price: £149 Stockist: www.fieldcandy.com

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Your Pet Presents All Wrapped Up

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3a The Old Mews, Market Hill Framlingham, Suffolk, IP13 9AN Call: 01728 720093 www.poshpawsfram.eu /PoshPawsFramlingham

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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.

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DOG FRIENDLY

Tails About Town Written by Emma Kemsley

AN ESSEX ESCAPE When autumn arrives there really is no better time to be a dog owner; daily walks lined with golden trees, footpaths full of crunchy leaves and thankfully this year, mostly crisp blue skies. It’s the perfect time of year to enjoy a weekend away in the countryside with your dog so when we heard Down Hall Hotel & Spa had launched ‘It’s a Dog’s Life’ package from £209 per night, we packed our bags and headed for the historic house on the Essex/ Herts border in Matching Green. I’m always interested to learn how a hotel has put their own dog-friendly stamp on things. After all, it’s mine and Fletcher’s job to give you an insight so you can pick the perfect place for your next break – he brings a whole new meaning to ‘working spaniel’. On arrival at Down Hall Hotel we were promptly checkedin and shown to our room located in the elegant West Wing. The room is spacious and a particularly nice feature was the double doors with direct access to the gardens. There was also a dog bed, towel for mucky paws, and welcome pack with a chew toy and treats, which Fletcher wasted no time tucking into. Down Hall Hotel is beautiful inside and out. It was a lovely autumnal day so we went for a long walk around the 110 acres of garden and woodland, stopping to play a game of chess on the way. Fletcher was allowed off lead in the grounds, which is a rare feature of a hotel, and had a great time running around until he made a dash for the pond – walkies were officially over! After a long walk, Fletcher took a snooze in the room, while we indulged in a full body massage and spa visit. Later that evening, everyone relaxed and rested, we called the restaurant to order Fletcher’s very own room service. A short 15 minutes later, a steaming hot bowl of chicken, peas and gravy arrived. We left him chowing down his dinner and headed to the hotel’s Grill Restaurant for our own three-course meal. Overall the stay was great for a relaxing overnight break in the countryside. With its speedy train links to both London and Cambridge, its an ideal base for exploring this pretty little corner of the UK. Read the full review online at www.eastlife.co.uk/dog-friendly

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10

Cosy Dog-Friendly

Written by Siobhan Foskett @ siobhanfoskett

If you are anything like me, as soon as autumn/ winter hits, you will love nothing better than getting all wrapped up, going for a nice long walk through the countryside and then finding a cosy pub for a good meal and a warming glass of mulled wine. The only trouble that some of us find is that a lot of pubs don’t let us bring in our wonderful dogs. So, here you will find some of the best pubs to go to this winter with your four-legged friends:

Pubs

Whalebone. Every month they announce their ‘Dog of the month’ on the website along with a photo of them. Plus, there is a treat jar behind the bar for the pooches. www.whalebonefreehouse.co.uk

NORFOLK The Crown Hotel, Wells-next-the- Sea The Buttlands, Wells-next-the-Sea NR23 1EX A pub with cosy little nooks, hearty, locally sourced food on the menu and specially designated rooms where you can stay with your furry friend. crownhotelnorfolk.co.uk

The Fisherman’s Return, Winterton On Sea The Lane, Winterton-on-Sea, Great Yarmouth, NR29 4BN A pub in a perfect setting. You can walk along one of the best beaches in Norfolk, in my humble opinion, and then straight off the beach, through the quaint village of Winterton to The Fisherman’s Return. Wellbehaved dogs are welcome and when you visit, you will almost always find a dog lounging in front of the log fire. Mulled wine and cider is always on the menu in the winter, perfect for that post beach walk. www.fishermansreturn.com

The Whalebone, Norwich The Whalebone, 144 Magdalen Rd, Norwich NR3 4BA You couldn’t get much more dog friendly than The

SUFFOLK The Plough and Sail, Snape Snape Bridge, Snape, Saxmundham IP17 1SR

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This pub boasts about its ‘cosy snug area’ within the older part of the pub where dogs are welcome and it is just that. A log burner and comfy sofas give the pub a traditional feel and a separate, more modern, restaurant for high end and delicious food. www.theploughandsailsnape.com CAMBRIDGESHIRE The White Horse Inn, Barton 118 High St, Barton, Cambridge CB23 7BG Situated just five minutes away from country walks and only four miles from the city of Cambridge, it’s perfect if you have been for a long walk or had a busy day shopping. Settle down in a tub chair in front of the log fire and have some gorgeous food. They serve a mix of traditional pub food like fish and chips and burgers to ‘Iberico Flavours’ for those who fancy something a little different. www.thewhitehorseinnbarton.co.uk

ESSEX The Angel Inn Parsons Corner, N Shoebury Road, Southend-on-Sea SS3 8UD This traditional, country style pub was lovingly restored from a collection of cottages which gives it a rustic charm. You can choose from a selection of hearty dishes from one of the menus or off one of the daily specials boards. www.angelinnpub.com The Anchor, Danbury Danbury, Chelmsford CM3 4QZ From the second you arrive outside this pub, you can tell it will be comfy and you will not be disappointed when you get inside. The Anchor have a separate snug bar with water bowls and treats for the pooches and the open fire and traditional beams makes this a real favourite for the locals and their dogs. theanchordanbury.co.uk

The Earl of Beaconsfield, Cambridge 133 Mill Rd, Cambridge CB1 3AA Somewhere with an element of modern cosiness. This pub serves pizza alongside their craft beers all in a lovely pub atmosphere. With live music four nights a week and their two dogs, Smoky Bacon and Scampi Fries, this is the perfect place for an evening out. www.earlofbeaconsfield.co.uk HERTFORDSHIRE The Three Tuns, Buntingford Great Hormead, Buntingford SG9 0NT A charming thatched pub from the outside and snug with a log fire on the inside. Traditional food is on the menu with local and with real ales on tap, this is the epitome of a snug, winter pub! www.3tuns.com BEDFORDSHIRE The Stone Jug, Clophill 10 Back St, Clophill, Bedford MK45 4BY This pub is popular with ramblers and dog walkers as it is situated on the edge of The Greensand Ridge Walk. Sit down for a little winter warmer of mulled wine by one of the fires in the colder months once you have been for a long Sunday walk. www.stonejug.co.uk

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FATHER CHRISTMAS ON A STEAM TRAIN! Travel on the train with Father Christmas! On 20th, 22nd and 23rd December, come and travel in one of our beautifully restored steam trains and wait for Father Christmas to bring presents for the children! Your tickets include: A present for every child/baby Soft drinks and biscuits for children Seasonal refreshments for adults On-board fun with Cha Char Chimps Live children’s show & face-painting Enjoy our stunning visitor centre Tickets from £1 £13.50 BOOKING IS ESSENTIAL! Buy tickets online at www.bucksrailcentre.org

BUCKINGHAMSHIRE RAILWAY CENTRE Station Road, Quainton, Near Aylesbury HP22 4BY email marketing@bucksrailcentre.org call 01296 655720 www.bucksrailcentre.org Buckinghamshire Railway Centre @bucksrailcentre

Santa trains at the Leighton Buzzard Railway in December

EPPING ONGAR RAILWAY

VISIT SANTA ON HIS SPECIAL TRAIN

Santa After Dark - New for this year. Come and meet Santa after sunset. Children will receive their presents on the train. This service will operate on December 16th and 23rd only with departures at 16.30, 17.20 and 18.10 Mince Pie specials - Santa will be on his holidays, but our popular mince pie specials will run on December 28th and 29th with departures at 11.00, 11.40, 12.20, 13.20 and 14.00. Leighton Buzzard Railway, Page’s Park Station, Billington Road, Leighton Buzzard, Bedfordshire, LU7 4TG. More details and to book tickets on our website www.buzzrail.co.uk

Our buses collect you from right outside Epping Underground Station making it super easy for people living close to the Central Line.

Fares are £17.50/£20 per person (depending on day) and include a free gift for all children delivered at their seat by Santa himself. Compartments for 6 or 8 people for the exclusive use of your family are also available.

eorailway.co.uk 01277 365200

FESTIVE

FUN

DECEMBE

R

2 3 9 17 21 22 10 16 23 24

2017

Santa’s steam specials - run on Saturdays, Sundays and Wednesdays from December 2nd - 24th For details of exact times and fares see our website. Take a 25-minute steam-train ride, and meet Santa in his grotto, where children up to 12 will receive an early present.

2017

OUR CHRISTMAS SCHEDULE IS NOW AVAILABLE

Santa and his fantastic team are coming back to the Epping Ongar Railway for the 2017 Santa Specials! We’ll have the Redbridge Brass Band, Christmas-themed market and of course Santa on his special train. You must ensure that a ride on the Epping Ongar Railway is part of your family Christmas.


LITTLE EAST they too know the importance of getting children to discover the magic of books at a young age and they have launched the ‘Get Suffolk Reading’ campaign.

MUM’s

THE WORD THE IMPORTANCE OF READING It probably doesn’t surprise you to hear that as someone who writes (and I do write books as well as my monthly Mum mutterings) I think reading is pretty important. As soon as my son could hold a book I made him a reading corner filled with wonderful stories and plastered the words of the great Dr Seuss on the wall: “The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you’ll go!” Even though my boy is now nine, and enjoying losing himself in a book on his own, we still have the shared experience of reading together at bedtime and through this I can nurture his love of books and continue to build his vocabulary. It is this kind of shared experience that national literacy charity Beanstalk is trying to recreate as

The campaign aims to transform childhood illiteracy in the region and relies on volunteers to deliver their 321 reading programme, which involves volunteers supporting 3 primary school aged children (aged 5-11), two times a week for 30 minutes in a local primary school over the course of one academic year. Making these sessions one-to-one allows the reader to tailor each session to what the child loves and the level of comprehension they need. Promoting the joy of reading isn’t being limited to school age children as the charity is also seeking volunteers to help with their Story Starters scheme. The volunteers will visit three children twice a week to do just 20 minutes of fun and interactive supportive reading with them. Reading isn’t just something we do to aid learning, Reading brings us news, it keeps us close to people and most importantly it gives a magic that no movie or computer game can challenge. Losing yourself in a book is magical and is an amazing gift to pass on to the next generation so even if you can’t volunteer in a scheme like the Beanstalk programme set time aside to read with your only children or those at a local school. Just don’t hold me responsible for the hours of silence you get as your children disappear inside the pages of a book. No, wait, do and send gifts… Read more from Dolly at www.raggydollywrites. wordpress.com or follow her on Twitter @Osborneosaurus

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Festive FUN They’ve been waiting for this moment all year, so make it as magical as possible for your little ones with these fun festive events… A land of enchantment at Audley End House Audley End Road, Saffron Walden CB11 4JF The English Heritage property, near Saffron Walden, is introducing a new festive event this winter. Its grounds will be filled with light, colour and sound as the ‘Enchanted’ season begins. From 15-23 December, the gardens of Audley End House will be bathed in dramatic illuminations with strings of lanterns laced through the boughs of trees, and fairy lights twinkling behind leaves, which will lead visitors along an enchanting trail into a magical wonderland. Inspiration will be taken from a variety of elements of the site’s history, including the nursery at Audley End and the lives of the eight Braybrooke children who lived there, with miniature scenes recreated with dolls house-sized characters to delight children. There will also be ‘escaped wildlife’ illuminated through the landscape, a shadow puppet feature and

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medieval scenes. The fun doesn’t stop there, follow the trail to the end and enjoy a traditional fairground, festive food and drink and shopping opportunities. Tickets cost from £10 per adult, £6 children. www.english-heritage.org.uk/enchanted A Wimpole Wonderland Arrington, SG8 0BW, Cambs As schools break up for the two-week festive break, it can be a difficult and laborious task to keep children occupied. Luckily Wimpole Hall provides the answer. A National Trust property in Cambridgeshire, that is readily prepared with activities for all the family. With a Christmas Craft fair open 11-12 November, this is the perfect chance for the adults to start their gift shopping with quirky and quaint finds. Later into December the house opens up for all to enjoy craft workshops, a hot chocolate bar and storytelling. Outside the farm is open to visit the animals with the sounds of folk music to accompany you. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/wimpole-estate


A Classic Christmas at Ickworth Bury St Edmunds IP29 5QE Step back in time at National Trust’s Ickworth House and enjoy the sights, sounds and smells of a 1930s Christmas on 2-3 December. The maids will be busy in the house prepping seasonal treats, before everyone gathers around the tree to sing carols – it’s the perfect event for getting into the Christmas spirit! Later in the month sees ‘Ickworth Sparkle’ on 9-10, 16-17 and 21-23 December. A festive family event for making magical memories; there’s the opportunity to follow the Christmas trail, make decorations and crafts, help with cooking special seasonal treats and listen to storytelling by the tree with gifts for Father Christmas! Tickets cost £12 per child. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ickworth/whats-on Help find Rudolph Great Notley Country Park, Braintree, CM77 7FS Santa has a problem, one of his reindeers has gone missing, and it’s up to the children visiting Great Notely Country Park on 9-10 December to find him! Children will be treated to a festive story, before setting out to find the missing reindeer hiding in the park, and receiving a gift from Santa for their help. There’s also face painting, crafts and festive activities. Tickets are £4 per child and children under 1 and adults go free. www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/reindeer-trail-tickets-37598793002

A Christmas Paper Trail Norwich Cathedral Quarter, Norwich To celebrate Norwich Puppet Theatre’s Christmas show, The Steadfast Tin Soldier, follow a creative paper artwork trail around the Cathedral Quarter inspired by Hans Christian Andersen’s tale of love and bravery. From 16 November – 30 December, you can collect the hidden letters on a map as you go, solve the puzzle then return your completed map for a chance of winning some prizes! Maps will be available to download from the Theatre’s website and the Tourist Information Centre at The Forum from October. www.puppettheatre.co.uk

The Santa Express Nene Valley Railway, Wansford Station, Stibbington, Peterborough PE8 6LR Santa is swapping his sleigh for the Nene Valley Railway from 25 November – 24 November. Hop aboard for a fun-filled festive ride to Peterborugh and back, enjoying the entertainment on board and a visit from the man in red himself. The Santa Specials are hugely popular so book fast to secure your place. Priced from £15. nvr.org.uk Enchantment at Audey End House

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Cambridge Park & Ride – Taking you into the heart of Cambridge Buses depart every 10 minutes Mon-Sat during the day and every 20 minutes after 6.30pm Every 15 minutes (9am - 6pm) Sundays and public holidays

A SCHOOL DESIGNED FOR

LITTLE PEOPLE

OPEN DAY

Saturday 4th November 10.00am - 12 noon

For further details please visit our website or call 01234 369555

Open seven days a week The Park & Ride return ticket is £3 and with this ticket up to three children travel for free Concessionary pass holders travel for free with their passes after 9.30am Monday to Friday, and all day at the weekend and on bank holidays The bus fare is £3 return and parking costs £1 for up to 18 hours and can be paid in advance via VIVOPARK – visit www.cambridgeparkandride.info to find out more. The Park & Ride Group Ticket is £8.50 and can only be purchased from the driver – it allows a group of up to 5 people to travel together. Park & Ride Weekly tickets cost just £13.50 and are valid for 7 days Further information: www.cambridgeparkandride.info

Pilgrims Pre-Preparatory School Brickhill Drive, Bedford MK41 7QZ

www.pilgrims-school.info THE HARPUR TRUST PRE PREP

BRAND NEW RANGE OF LIFE FITNESS EQUIPMENT COMING SOON WITH NEW STEAM ROOM

I believe in living a balanced life Sixth Form Open Evening Thursday 9th November, 6.30pm Telephone: 01234 361918 www.bedfordgirlsschool.co.uk Bedford Girls’ School is part of The Harpur Trust

Lifefitness Elevation Series PREMIUM CARDIO EQUIPMENT

www.bourngolfandleisure.co.uk Cambridge, Toft Road, Bourn, Cambridge CB23 2TT Tel: 01954 718057 info@bourngolfandleisure.co.uk


EDUCATION

How to Support Children with Homework schedule. This will be a valuable skill going into higher education and the workplace. Mike Wilson, Principal at Alde Valley Academy, Leiston (aldevalleyacademy. org.uk), has the following advice for parents on the best way they can help support their child with homework...

With the school year now well underway, children will hopefully be settled into their new classes and older students will be thinking seriously about upcoming examinations. Many children and particularly those who have moved up a stage in their education will also be experiencing increased homework demand. Extended Learning The first thing to remind children is that homework is not an optional extra. Teachers don’t set homework for fun, particularly since they’ll have to mark 30 pieces! It’s important that children understand this and that they realise completing homework will help increase their understanding of a subject and ultimately help them perform better in it. Set a timetable Setting a timetable for homework is a good way of encouraging children to discipline themselves. Why not encourage them to plan their own timetable with priority tasks based around their lesson

Subject Learning For some subjects looking over lesson material at home is just as important as set homework tasks. For example going over and memorising verbs in modern foreign languages will make it far easier for children to grasp an understanding of the language. Seek Help It’s perfectly normal for children to be reluctant when it comes to completing homework, however there should never be a situation where homework is causing an undue amount of anxiety. If this is the case then contact the class teacher or encourage your child to ask for help. Don’t overdo it Homework is important but remember to take time off as well! Particularly for GCSE and A-level students it’s important that they take time to go outside and enjoy some fresh air. Even an hour spent watching TV isn’t wasted time if it helps them to switch off. Finally, encourage students, and particularly teenagers, to complete homework when they get home from school or in the early part of the evening. Starting homework at 10 PM and going to sleep in the early hours is not going to help them get the most out of school the next day.

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Spice up this Christmas with an authentic Indian feast Kakori has been elegantly created to give a unique and memorable experience for our diners, and to exude class and glamour with the perfect ambience and tasteful décor.

Every Sunday Family Buffet served from 12 - 5pm @ £9.95 Adult, £4.95 children under 10

Kakori’s Head Chef, has created an eclectic menu to incorporate the freshest ingredients with a mix of contemporary, traditional and original ideas. Drawing on his vast experience in using the finest ingredients and home made spices. The result is subtle, clean and refined dishes but still generously infused with classic Indian flavours. We invite you to come and enjoy the Kakori experience.

Book your Christmas celebrations for a memorable experience Takeaway Sunday Family Buffet Private Dining rooms Exclusive Hire Wedding Functions Corporate Events

97-101 High street, Newport Pagnell, Milton Keynes, MK16 8EN OPENING TIMES: Sunday: 12pm – 10pm All other days: 5.30pm – 11pm. Tuesday: closed

01908 216426 - 01908 614115 info@kakori.co.uk www.kakori.co.uk


FOOD & DRINK

FOOD & DRINKNews A FESTIVE FEAST AT PARIS HOUSE, WOBURN Award-winning chef and owner of Bedfordshire’s fine dining restaurant Paris House, Phil Fanning, will be hosting a number of festive packages from 16 November – 23 December. The inspirational menus use seasonal ingredients to take guests on a culinary journey with dishes that will bring more festive cheer than most. The packages are available from parties of eight to 36, ranging from three to eight courses. Taster and set menus will be available with prices starting from £120. Its location in 22 acres of deer park on the Woburn Estate make it a great choice for winter dining, in addition to the restaurant’s recent refurbishment which features undressed, polished tables, heritage colours and simple elegance. The Paris House team has also created a series of behind the scenes experiences ideal for a special treat or Christmas gift. Guests can dine at the iconic Chef’s Table priced £445 for two with wine, join the team as a Chef for the Day from £295 per person, or try their hand at modernist cooking with a full series of Masterclasses with Phil Fanning at £169 per person. Gift vouchers are also available through the website. www.parishouse.co.uk

INDOOR FIREWORKS WITH BONFIRE AFTERNOON TEA AT TAMBURLAINE Tamburlaine Hotel are serving up indoor fireworks this November with the creation of a special Bonfire Afternoon Tea, available until 30 November. Inspired by Bonfire Night and the warming flavours of cinnamon, treacle and chocolate, treats consist of a mini pumpkin pie, triple layered brownie, toffee crab apple filled with honey crémeux, cinnamon doughnut, carrot cake, and blackberry and pear frozen parfait, topped off with fireworks and served with Gunpowder tea. Bonfire Tea is priced at £21.50. www.thetamburlaine.co.uk

Enjoy a festive feast at Paris House

THE FESTIVE FOOD FAIR AT HOLKHAM HALL, 16-17 DECEMBER Next month, feast your senses in The Lady Elizabeth Wing at Holkham Hall. A delicious collection of food and drink from the best of local and regional producers offering a truly magical Christmas food event. Stock up on ingredients for your own Christmas feast, or find plenty of treats for the food lovers on your gift list. There will also be a cookery theatre featuring demonstrations from local chefs, plus yuletide musical entertainment will mean you’ll be feeling truly festive. The event is free to attend, £3 car parking charge in Holkham Park applies. www.holkham. co.uk/events/christmas-at-holkham/festive-food-fair

FOOD DIARY: 30 October – 10 November, Norfolk Restaurant Week 4-5 November, Ipswich Christmas Food & Craft Fair at Trinity Park 3 December, Special Christmas Bread Workshop at Suffolk Food Hall

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Big Things

Are Coming REOPENING: FRIDAY 10 TH NOVEMBER

125 DUNSTABLE STREET, AMPTHILL, MK45 2NG | WWW.THEWHITEHARTAMPTHILL.CO.UK

COME AND CELEBRATE CHRISTMAS IN STYLE AT JORDANS MILL WE’VE GOT PLENTY OF FESTIVE FUN TO GET YOU IN THE SPIRIT! Enjoy your very own Christmas Afternoon Tea with a tasty Croque-en-bouche Christmas tree, selection of sandwiches, Santa hat cupcake, white chocolate and cranberry scone and chocolate yule log. All served with teas or coffees for £18.95 or add a little extra sparkle with a glass of Prosecco for £21.95. Offer runs from the 24th November until 22nd December inclusive – must be booked 24 hours in advance. Jordans Mill store - treat your loved ones to a guided tour, vouchers and other special gifts. Open daily from 9am - 5pm. For more information about Jordans Mill please visit www.jordansmill.com or call 01767 603940.

WHY NOT FOLLOW US ON:

/JORDANSMILL

@JORDANSMILL

WE HAVE MORE … Craft fair on the 25th November from 10am - 4pm. Browse through our stalls and find those unique gifts. Join us on Wednesdays and Sundays (£14.95pp) throughout December for our traditional Christmas roast (12pm - 3pm) Groups over 10 must pre-book. book. Family fun – from the 2nd to 24th December, Christmas mas penguin trail, £1.50 with a treat at the end! No need d to book just turn up between en 9am-5pm daily.

WWW.JORDANSMILL.COM

Jordans Mill, Holme Mills, Langford Road, Broom, Nr Biggleswade SG18 9JY


Family run British/Caribbean fusion restaurant LOCATED IN HISTORIC TOWER STREET A HIVE OF INDEPENDENT TRADERS

FFERS: SPECIAL O pastry coffee and Takeaway efore 10am £2 b 2 for 1 the month Cocktail of Very spacious, able to accommodate large groups, wheel chair access. Function room available for hire: meetings, parties, receptions etc. Capacity for 60 seated dining or 100 party reception. Open from 9am till 10pm weekdays, 11pm Friday, 1am with DJ most Saturdays Soul DJ evenings as well as Spanish themed nights with live flamenco guitar and dancing, and a bespoke artists space.

TAKING BOOKINGS FOR CHRISTMAS PARTIES, SPECIAL MENU AVAILABLE. Keep updated with our offers and events via facebook

/soulcafeandrestaurant or

@olivierskitchen

Phone us direct: 01553 775248 http://soulcafeandrestaurant.co.uk


Visit The Dyke’s End at Reach HRH The Prince of Wales did – and described it as “a splendid pub”

The Dyke’s End at Reach offer their guests an exceptional dining experience. Our menus change as different produce and game come into season but they always include favourites, such as local sausage and mash, outstanding fish and chips and Parisian steak-fries and we will gladly cater for vegetarians and those with food intolerances. Our Lunch and Dinner Menus are very popular and our customers tell us they love the food. However, every day we have an extensive ‘Special Menu’ which changes regularly. If there is something special you’d like our chefs to prepare, just give us a call and we’ll do our best to make it happen (give reasonable notice). Our Sunday Lunches are very popular too so you are advised to reserve a table. Our upstairs dining room complements the main bar areas and, after a complete refurbishment has an ‘olde country pub’ feel about it offering the atmosphere of an Edwardian grandeur with a contemporary feel. Importantly, it not only offers a beautiful alternative to eating downstairs, but also doubles as a private dining room for parties of up to 20 guests. Service charge is discretionary. Christmas Menu Starters Winter root vegetable, pearl barley broth with homemade bread and horseradish cream. Coarse pork paté with smoked bacon, apple cider chutney, pork scratchings and granary toast Beetroot, orange and dill cured salmon with cucumber crème fraîche, grilled lemon and crispbreads

Main Courses Traditional roasted breast of turkey with pigs in blankets, cranberry sauce, duck fat roast potatoes, bread sauce and turkey gravy served with a selection of seasonal vegetables Roast supreme of pheasant with chestnuts, cabbage, bacon, fondant potato and a redcurrant, honey and thyme jus Pan fried cod fillet with sauté potatoes, curly kale, curried mussel stew and crispy capers Winter vegetable crumble with cheddar cheese, beer, mustard sauce, baby gem salad and a garlic peppercorn dressing Puddings Traditional Christmas pudding with brandy butter and brandy sauce Mulled wine spiced poached pears with chantilly cream and shortbread biscuits Chocolate and chestnut torte on a biscuit base with passionfruit sorbet and honeycomb A selection of cheeses with biscuits, celery, grapes and chutney This menu is available from Dec 1st on weekdays only The cost per person is £29.50 and there will be a non-refundable deposit of £10 per person upon booking.

The Dyke’s End

8 Fair Green, Reach, Cambridge Tel: 01638 743816 e: info@dykesend.co.uk www.dykesend.co.uk


THE

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

LET’S FEAST Have you eagerly looked to the other side of the table and wanted to have a taste of the food of the person you are having a meal with? We all have done it! It’s a bit rude to ask to share if you hardly know the person but accepted if it is family or a very good friend. Wouldn’t it be great if you didn’t have to bite your lip and could tuck into what your fellow diner is eating? A lot of cultures share their food as having a meal is more about the social element than just feeding you. It is rather strange, that we share our food at home, but as soon as we step outside our attitude changes. We order our own starters, mains and desserts and don’t let anybody near it. Apparently, it is all Alexander Kurakin’s fault. Service a la Russe, which is bringing courses to the table sequentially, was brought by him to France in the 19th century and it later caught on in English and Western restaurants too. So if it wasn’t for him, we would still have a sharing culture of food. It is a pity as for a foodie like me, sharing food is great as you can enjoy a lot more different flavours than if you would have a traditional English meal of a starter, main and dessert. With a party of six, you could possibly have 18 different types of food! A no-brainer I would think? I love travelling to Asia and Spain as it is all about feasting and sharing.

Beef at Salt Pig

If you can’t wait to share food with your fellow diners, you always can head off to one of the Asian restaurants and order the food to come out as a banquet or to one of the North African ones, where it is called a Meze. Some of the local pubs have sharing boards or order a few starters and mains instead and ask to share. One of the best places to go for sharing food is the newest kid in town, Salt Pig on Green Street. This all-day Brasserie serves up delicious food starting at breakfast time to dinner. Quite a few of their nibbles, starters and mains are perfect for sharing so get a group of friends or family together and feast! Book a table at www.salt-pig.co.uk

It makes you wonder what would the food have looked like now? No stunning creations, which are almost too pretty to eat? This question will never be answered I am afraid. Sharing food is coming back though. Quite a few restaurants in New Zealand have taken on the new trend of sharing food. When the food is ready it is brought to the table. The Southern hemisphere is often a step ahead of us, so give it some time and we’ll be sharing food again.

Floral dessert at Salt Pig

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

For an eclectic shopping experience

Breakfast. Lunches. Light Snacks

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

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

01508 483947


TOP

5

Farm shops for Christmas Written by Natalie at stumpygumbo.com

Can you believe it’s nearly December already? By now you’ll already be thinking about getting that turkey ready and prepping the endless supply of Brussel sprouts. Although I can’t help with the cooking, I can help with finding good quality produce. Take a step away from the big supermarket chains, and look at what the array of local farms are producing – from cheeses to succulent meats, of course you’ll find a vegetable or two in there also! Below are my top five farm shops for Christmas produce from across the region… Enjoy! Green Pastures Planet Centre and Farm Shop Green Pastures, Mill Road, Bergh Apton, Norwich, Norfolk, NR15 1BQ The Debbage family have been farming in Bergh Apton for over 80 years and the story begins right here at Green Pastures. Stop by to pick up fresh produce, accompanied by a lovely service and a tasty spot of lunch. www.greenpasturesnursery.co.uk Emmerdale Farm Shop Westleton Road, Darsham, Suffolk IP17 3BP Stop by and chose from their wide selection of own and local produce. There’s even a butcher on site, which is renowned for its high quality meat. If that’s not enough to tickle your fancy, you can enjoy lovely

panoramic views of the Suffolk countryside in the Red Poll Tearooms. www.emmerdalefarmshop.co.uk Rectory Farm Shop Landbeach Rd, Milton, Cambridge, CB24 6AE The Chapman family have farmed at Rectory Farm since 1988, having taken it over from an uncle. Nowadays, they open their doors for festivities; selling fresh poultry available to order for Christmas from 2 November. The Christmas season starts from 26 November where the team start selling trees and open the doors to the Christmas barn. www.rectoryfarmshop.co.uk Calcott Hall Farm Shop Calcott Hall Farm, Ongar Road, Brentwood CM15 9HS The Calcott Hall is a family run business, selling everything you need under one roof; think fresh fruit and veg, a cheese counter, bakery, butcher, grocery store and frozen section. Its emphasis is on sourcing local produce whenever possible. www.calcotthall.com Carpenters Nursery & Farm Shop 106 St Albans Road, Sandridge, St Albans, Herts, AL4 9LJ The newly refurbished shop now stocks fresh meat pies and yoghurts, with a designated gluten-free product area (hurrah!) on top of its home-grown and locally sourced produce. carpentersnursery.co.uk

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Men’s Health Open Evening. Statistically, men are much less likely to report problems with their bodies to their GPs, however that doesn’t mean they are any less likely to suffer problems. This is especially true of symptoms often regarded as embarrassing such as needing to urinate more frequently, (often during the night), a loss of appetite, pain in the testicles or unexplained weight loss. Mr Anil Vohra, a local experienced Consultant Urological Surgeon, is hosting an informal event to talk about these and other problems such as with the prostate or kidney stones. The evening will be providing free, private and entirely confidential mini consultations where you will get the chance to talk openly about any concerns you may have. To confirm your attendance at this private event please contact the team at Nuffield Health Brentwood Hospital.

01277 886 706

WHEN: Thursday 16th November 2017 6.30pm WHERE: Nuffield Health Brentwood Hospital Shenfield Road Brentwood Essex CM15 8EH

Start your journey to a healthier you. Find your local gym Nuffieldhealth.com/gyms

Brentwood.enquires@nuffieldhealth.com You can also register via the website - nuffieldhealth.com/book For more information about Mr Vohra, please visit nuffieldhealth.com/consultants/mr-anil-k-vohra NUF1017165178-1


PATIENCE MAY NOT BE A VIRTUE IF YOU ARE TRYING TO CONCEIVE

Bringing light to National Fertility Awareness Week (30 October – 5 November), Dr Thanos Papathanasiou, Regional Lead Clinician at Bourn Hall Clinic, gives us an insight into seeking fertility advice…. “Just relax”, “keeping trying”, “you will be next” just a few of the misguided pieces of advice given to those trying to conceive. Unfortunately good professional advice can also be difficult to find. Research commissioned by Bourn Hall Fertility Clinic, in partnership with the British Infertility Counselling Association, found that youth was often mistaken by GPs as a sign of fertility and couples in their 20s were often told they were “too young to have a problem and should try for longer” and this was delaying a referral for fertility testing. Seek advice On average 80% of couples will get pregnant within a year, if they have sexual intercourse every two to three days and do not use contraception. So couples that are unsuccessful after two years should seek help. Fertility does decline with age, but this means that younger people should get pregnant more easily. Often couples only accept that they have a problem when everyone around them seems to be having babies, so they may have unprotected sex for several years before seeing a doctor. Anything that may delay seeking help is concerning to fertility experts. There are many ways that natural fertility can be boosted if the condition is recognised early,

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including taking nutritional supplements to increase sperm quality, drugs to stimulate ovulation and minor operations to restore fertility.

Ask your GP Those experiencing infertility should explore with their GP a number of questions such as the following: 1. We have been together for three years without using contraception and have been trying for a baby for one year – is there a difficulty? The answer is most likely yes; most couples wrongly consider the period of ‘trying hard’ as the duration of infertility and may not give their previous history. 2. If all our tests are normal, is it possible we may still need fertility treatment? The answer may be yes; the causes for one third of all cases of infertility are unexplained. 3. If I delay getting treatment now will my egg store decrease? Perhaps; the basic tests may not include ovarian reserve testing, which is an indication of egg store, and even if tests indicate that the egg store is good it does not predict future fertility. 4. If my sperm analysis is poor is there anything I could do to improve the situation? Potentially; lifestyle changes such as stopping smoking, reducing alcohol and enhancing nutrition with selected supplements can improve sperm quality.

Boosting fertility The good news is that many people with subfertility can improve their natural fertility. Lifestyle changes for both men and women such as both being a healthy weight, improving nutrition, taking gentle exercise, reducing alcohol, quitting smoking and drugs and can all improve fertility.


HEALTH The concern is that these measures won’t be successful if there is an underlying medical cause for the infertility and this can only be determined with testing. Fertility testing can reveal: whether a woman has a good egg store and is releasing mature eggs regularly; if a man’s sperm is of good quality and moving well and if there are blocked tubes, fibroids or other reasons for failure to conceive. The results may mean in a small number of cases that the couple is referred for IVF treatment. This is where a woman’s ovaries are stimulated to produce eggs, which are collected, fertilised with her partner’s sperm and the resulting embryos transferred to her womb.

Access to fertility advice There is a concern in Cambridgeshire that the recent cut in all NHS funding for IVF treatment has sent a signal to the medical profession that fertility care is a low priority. At the moment there is more than a six month wait for fertility testing at Addenbrooke’s Hospital. This means also that couples are not getting the advice that might make all the difference. To address this Bourn Hall is hosting a free Fertility Fayre on the 4 November during Fertility Awareness Week aimed at people wanting to know more about how to get themselves fertility fit and give themselves the best chance of getting pregnant. The event is open from 10am at Bourn Hall’s flagship clinic in the village of Bourn eightmiles west of Cambridge. Stalls will include exhibitors from, Camquit, Fertility Nutrition, Genesis Genetics, Lotus Reflexology, Proxeed, Weight Watchers and Access Fertility (alternative ways to fund treatment). Bourn Hall’s own experts will be on hand to explain about the common causes of infertility and how to access the relevant tests or treatments. For more details visit www.bournhall.co.uk

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07973 230293

www.all-hallows.org.uk | 01986 892728

Convalescence

Supported by regular visits from a local doctor our caring and dedicated professional team made up of Nurses, Nursing Assistants, Physiotherapists and Therapy Assistants provide high quality care. Activity Programmes, Therapy Rooms & Gym

En-suite Accommodation & Freshly Prepared Food

Providing peace of mind in a friendly and supportive environment. “Recovery is such a small word for such a huge subject. Without you it just wouldn’t have been possible for me! I'm eternally grateful”.

Rooms are tastefully furnished and fully wheelchair accessible, have wonderful views across the large garden and fitted with an emergency call system, TV and radio, telephone and have free Wi-Fi. There is also a chapel and sensory room on site too.

All Hallows Hospital Ditchingham NR35 2QL

Community Hospital | Daycare | Homecare | Neurological Services| Nursing Home | Therapy Services


Happy FEET! Over the next couple of months, our feet are going to cover some ground with all that Christmas shopping and running around. To give your tired soles a little TLC, the specialists at the Footcare Centre in King’s Lynn, have provided their top tips… Many people don’t think about caring for their feet until there is pain or a problem. As with the dentist, checking on the health of your feet is important and enables the practitioner to nip any problems in the bud, therefore avoiding such things as blisters, in-growing toe nails, corns, bunions and other feet abnormalities, dysfunction or deformity progressing. Checking children’s feet regularly from an early age should be encouraged, as this will allow for any footwear, balance or gait corrections to be made before the bone structure is set in the adult body did you know that a child’s foot continues to grow and develop until their late teens? Foot health is reflected in standing, walking and running gaits and is something we can assess biomechanically ensuring foot development is as normal as possible as they grow. It is important to look after the feet as they are the first point of contact with the ground and are vital in their role of ensuring that joints, muscles, tendons and

ligaments are able to function to their full capacity. This in turn will ensure that future problems can be avoided. Getting your feet assessed and cared for during the elderly years will help maintain healthy feet and can improve quality of life by increasing comfort, stability and balance whilst walking and standing. The biomechanics of movement can be assessed and an exercise programme prescribed to correct any faults. It is important to see a qualified practitioner as problems can then be detected by a trained, professional eye that someone without training may not notice or know how to deal with. We are looking to improve your situation and care for your feet when you do not know how to, educating you along the way. Top Tips! To help relax the feet, and to give the body a natural detox, try soaking in a bowl of warm water with 2 table spoons of Epsom Salts dissolved in 2-3 times per week. Dry the feet thoroughly after their soak, and massage with olive oil. www.thefootcarecentrekingslynn.co.uk

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FASHION

Umbrellas Wellies Written by Ruth Essex

November can be a tricky month weather wise. Sometimes warm, sometimes cool but it is not uncommon for it to be a full-on rainy day. I remember standing on the railway platform one wet morning and wondering why on a gloomy day, people wore gloomy coats and carried gloomy umbrellas? Whilst waiting for the train, I counted only 10 people who were wearing either a colourful coat, umbrella or boot combination, out of the 100 or so people on the platform. It takes six machines to make a single umbrella and they can take anything from a few hours to many days to make depending on how complicated the design is. Umbrellas can be works of art, stylish and colourful and as umbrellas are the most misplaced items on buses and trains, next time you lose yours why not upgrade to an interesting or colourful one, and then you may be less likely to forget it? On rainy school days nearly all the children have marvellous umbrellas and boots. Pretty colours; their favourite characters; and even sparkles. So why is it when we grow up that many of us abandon colour and decline into a sea of black and grey? I know that not everyone likes too much colour but the umbrella can still be a thing of style and beauty. And why shouldn’t our feet look bright and fun too whilst kicking those autumn leaves? Colour makes people smile and it brings joy. It lifts spirits and receives the odd compliment too. So next time it starts to rain, select stylishly and bring a little joy to everyone’s day.

Ruth Essex is an image consultant based in Great Dunmow, Essex. ruthcrofts@btinternet.com | Tel: 07900 910 666

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Party Dresses NOW IN STOCK!

Mother of the Bride, Special Occasion Wear, Evening Wear, Fuller Figures, Prom Dresses.

01480 461187

www.cream-rose.co.uk 7 HIGH STREET, FENSTANTON, CAMBS PE28 9LQ

OPEN: Tuesday 11:00am to 4:00pm, Wednesday to Friday 10:00am to 5:00pm, Saturday 9:00am to 4:00pm. Sunday by Appointment.

PETER’S BRIDAL WAREHOUSE Peter Bullman

WEDDING DRESS FACTORY OUTLET

Visit our independent boutique to see our fantastic range of Costume Jewellery and Hand Crafted Jewellery, Handbags and Accessories.

Stunning Dresses, Size 8 to 36 in stock or you to try on today Priced from £299 to £999 Unit 21 Northfield Business Park, Soham, CB7 5UE Just off A142 Soham By Pass, (Behind Scampers Pet Store)

Call: 07917757862 www.petersbridalwarehouse.com Peter Bridal Warehouse

We offer a personalised service, and our speciality is crafting bespoke jewellery for every occasion. Regional Stockist for Vendula London and Bessie London Handbags and Accessories

Ultimate Glitz 01493 844051 15-16 Victoria Arcade Great Yarmouth Norfolk, NR30 2NU www.ultimateglitz.co.uk ultimateglitz@gmail.com


treat yourself or a special someone this christmas at one of the uk’s leading aesthetic & beauty clinics

DERMASPA www.dermaspa.co.uk 01908 242 023

xmas vouchers available

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TheAnchor AnchorInn Inn The

Your Perfect Perfect Your Wedding Day... Day... The Anchor Inn Wedding T

his unique wedding venue is based in the rural heart of Cambridgeshire only 7 miles away from the beautiful city of Ely and is an original, idyllic 17th century Inn.

The newly landscaped gardens offer a perfect setting for your reception to be held in the marquee which will give you that unique atmosphere for you and your guests. We can cater for up to 150 people in the marquee. If you prefer, you also have the choice of enjoying your reception in the restaurant itself for that more intimate feel. We can cater up to 40 people in the restaurant.

Your Perfect Wedding Day... The Anchor Inn has evolved over the last 350 years and now offers every modern facility, but with a timeless charm and character that you will still experience a feeling of true antiquity. We are surrounded by beauty here at The Inn with stunning views over the New Bedford River and the Ouse Washes. We pride ourselves on the quality and flavours of our food as well as the service we offer. Your wedding day is the most important day of your life and we treasure it with you. We will make sure that you and your guests are well looked after from the minute they arrive.

What’s included in your day... • Exclusive use of The Anchor Inn if choosing the restaurant for your reception • The marquee and gardens if choosing the marquee for your reception • All glasses, tables, chairs and linen • The Riverside Suite (for one day) • Half a bottle of champagne • Wedding coordinator to help your day run smoothly • Car parking • 16-inch wedding cake stand and wedding cake knife • Staff for the entire day • Your chosen package • Recommendations of local suppliers, including florists, photographers, entertainers and cake makers

Bury Lane, Sutton Gault, Ely, Cambridgeshire, CB6 2BD Tel: 01353 778537 weddings@anchor-inn-restaurant.co.uk www.anchor-inn-restaurant.co.uk @the_anchor_inn

/anchorsuttongault.co.uk


WEDDINGS

Top Tips for Planning a Long Weekend We dding Written by Katrina Otter

www.katrinaotterweddings.co.uk

If there’s one wedding trend that I just can’t get enough of at the moment, it’s weekend long weddings. When your wedding is such a special occasion, and such a great opportunity to get your friends and family together, why not extend the celebrations? More and more couples are choosing to do just that and as a wedding planner, I love organising fabulous occasions that share the love over an entire weekend. So, if you’re planning your own multi-day event or if you’re now thinking that you might like to extend your wedding, then here are my top tips for planning a weekend long wedding…

3. Send save the dates / invitations out early so that guests have got plenty of time to book time off work, consider their travel plans and make all the necessary arrangements for a great weekend away. If you can give an idea of the activities that you’re planning at this point too, so much the better so that everyone can get an idea of what the wedding will entail in advance.

1. Your venue is the key ingredient! To be able to host a wedding weekend, you need a venue that’s totally on board with your plans. Location, accommodation, flexible catering options, activities and a really warm, welcoming atmosphere are all essential. If you can take over the entire venue, so much the better because then you can design your perfect house party without worrying about other guests or visitors.

4. Make sure there’s plenty of accommodation onsite or nearby so that there’s not a mad scramble for rooms or worse, guests who are left with no choice but to decline your invitation because they just can’t find anywhere to stay. Obviously on-site accommodation cuts down on the need for further travelling but it’s good to be able to offer everyone places to stay across a range of price points. Which brings us on to my next tip!

2. Think about logistics for guests and also for suppliers. This becomes even more important if you’re hiring a venue that doesn’t have on-site caterers or has its own challenges in terms of access, power or infrastructure. When will guests be able to arrive? How will your suppliers deal with the various aspects of the wedding weekend? For example, if they’re catering for a large brunch on the morning of the wedding, will they need more staff and / or more equipment?

5.Set expectations for costs in advance so that everyone is very clear what they’ll need to pay for and what you’re covering in return. It’s quite likely that a wedding weekend will be costlier for you and for your guests so clarity is important. If you can include information on likely costs with your save the dates or invitations, so much the better so that everyone can budget accordingly before they RSVP.

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Stove season be ready for winter

We are a family run business with over 25 years experience dealing in wood burning stoves, Alfa Pizza, Terrace Heaters and Cooking Ranges; Lacanche, Aga and Rayburn. Follow Us! Foundry House • Hall Street • Long Melford • CO10 9JR Unit 16 • Charles Industrial Estate • Stowmarket • Suffolk • IP14 5AH Long Melford Tel: 01787 313699 • Stowmarket Tel: 01449 678659 Email: sales@classicstovesandfireplaces.co.uk Web: classicstovesandfireplaces.co.uk


ENERGY

BILLS

CONSUMER

Martin Lewis Talks...

Don’t wait for an energy cap, save £300+ now Winter is coming. British Gas have hiked prices by an average 7% for those on its standard tariff. So before the dark nights roll in and you dust off your long johns, it’s time to snuggle up and sort out your energy bills… Winter is the highest-use energy period and on average most people are overspending by over 30% (often £300 a year), simply due to being on the wrong tariff. If you’ve not switched in the last 12 months and are with one of the big six – British Gas, EDF, E.on, Npower, Scottish Power and SSE - almost invariably that means you’re one of those people, as you’ll be on their very expensive standard tariff. If you’re with anyone else, you could still be overpaying too, so check. While the PM has recently said she wants to cap prices, if it passes through parliament, it’s over a year away, and the savings will likely be trivial compared to what you can save if you act now. Is it easy to switch tariff? There’s lots of balderdash spoken about how complicated this is. It only takes minutes to find your cheapest deal and then it should be switched over in 21 days. Those who worry about switching, don’t – it’s the same pipes, gas, meter, safety and you don’t lose supply – the only difference is price and customer service. As your cheapest depends on where you live and what you use, there’s no one winner. So just plug your details into my Cheap Energy Club at www.mse.me/energyclub, or any other www.ofgem.gov.uk approved comparison site and it’ll give the best deal for you. It’s best if you have your bills to hand to do this, but even if not, most comparison sites will estimate for you and the sin of inaccuracy isn’t as big as the sin of doing nothing. Though do beware, comparison sites are now allowed to only show you tariffs that pay them, which means you may not see the whole of the market (for the sake of transparency my Cheap Energy Club defaults to all deals). Those who aren’t online can call up some comparison sites too (or

ask friends who are more web savvy to help them). Sadly if you’re in Northern Ireland, there is no fullfledged comparison site that covers you. When I compare, why are the cheapest always small companies I’ve never heard of ? When people talk about the difficulty of switching, I think it’s not the comparison, but picking their winner. The huge encouragement given for new entrants to the energy market, is actually putting many off switching. And to an extent, there’s good reason. The energy market is swamped with new firms, and often at launch they offer super-cheap deals to build a customer base; yet feedback is limited or poor. Someone on typical use (by this, to be technical, I mean Ofgem’s typical use for someone on a dual fuel direct debit tariff) on a big six standard tariff is spending £1,130 a year. Yet the very cheapest deals are £310 a year less than this on the same usage. Often, the first five or more firms on your results page are new. If that worries you, simply scroll down the comparison site results to one you know, or one which has a good customer service feedback rating (some allow you to filter by this). The savings can still be over £300 – and if you’re nervous, it’s better to go for that. Read more tips online at www.eastlife.co.uk Martin Lewis is the Founder and Chair of MoneySaving Expert.com. Sign up for free money tips weekly at www.moneysaving expert.com/latesttip

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Our new look takeaway at Platten’s

10% OFF YOUR NEXT VISIT* Overlooking the stunning coastal views of the harbour, our takeaway provides both takeaway and eat in options, where you can sit in the spacious 60 seat Fisherman’s Yard. Visit our website to download a 10% off voucher today

WWW.PLATTENSFISHANDCHIPS.CO.UK FIND US

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Platten’s Fish & Chips, Quayside, Wells-Next-The-Sea, Norfolk NR23 1AH

Plattensfishandchips

01328 711 249

@Plattens_Wells

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Terms & conditions apply.

Happy Christmas to all readers and advertisers from everyone at

eastlife

Bring me!

Central Park, Chelmsford Sunday 3rd December Register today at

www.farleighhospice.org/santa

Generously supported by Tees Law

It is because you care that we can www.farleighhospice.org Registered charity no 284670


IN THE

SPOTLIGHT: Norfolk Hideaways

As the holiday home industry booms in Norfolk, we catch up with one of the counties leading rental companies....

FACT FILE: NAME: Helen Millin COMPANY & START DATE: Norfolk Hideaways. I was appointed as director in September 2016, but the company was launched in February 2009. LOCATION: Our head office is in Wellsnext-the-Sea but we also have offices in Burnham Deepdale and Wells, and an office will soon open in Holt.

WHAT ROLE DO YOU PLAY IN THE COMPANY? I am the CEO of Norfolk Hideaways and therefore am responsible for the day-to-day running and future growth of the business. WHAT AREAS DO YOU COVER IN EAST OF ENGLAND? We have holiday cottages right along the North Norfolk coast and inland too. Most of our guests travel from the home counties; Bedfordshire, Hertfordshire and Buckinghamshire as well as London, Lincoln, Leicestershire and Yorkshire. WHAT MAKES YOU STAND OUT FROM OTHER BUSINESSES IN YOUR INDUSTRY? We have a wonderful selection of coastal and country holiday cottages and like to think we have something for everyone; cottages for a family on a budget; a love nest for a couple wanting a short break away; and a good selection of big houses for special occasions and for when a celebration is in order! WHAT DO YOU LIKE BEST ABOUT YOUR LINE OF WORK? Meeting our guests, hearing about what a great

time they have had in North Norfolk and working closely with our wonderful homeowners, without whom, all this would not be possible! I also love promoting everything that is wonderful about Norfolk. For a girl who was brought up in Bedfordshire, I have totally fallen in love with North Norfolk. WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT WORKING IN A COMPANY IN THE EAST OF ENGLAND? Living and working in such a beautiful county and being so close to the fabulous beaches and of course having some of the best produce right on our doorstep. I have loved getting to know the locals and enjoying a more laid-back way of life, which of course is what Norfolk is all about. I love promoting the county which I have experienced as both a holidaymaker, holiday home owner and now as a main resident. WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE PLACE TO VISIT IN EAST ANGLIA & WHY? I love Wells-next-the-Sea beach, the view always takes my breath away and love walking the coastal path at Brancaster Staithe, which is where I live. WHAT ARE YOUR FAVOURITE EVENTS IN THE EAST OF ENGLAND? I am really looking forward to Norfolk Restaurant Week which takes place between 30 October and 10 November this year. Norfolk Hideaways are the headline sponsor and have been for the last two years. It provides the perfect opportunity to dine in some of the best restaurants in the area at a much-reduced price! So the perfect excuse to eat out every night! WHAT CAN EASTLIFE READERS LOOK FORWARD TO FROM NORFOLK HIDEAWAYS THIS YEAR? More beautiful cottages joining our portfolio, more exciting events and more reasons to visit North Norfolk! www.norfolkhideaways.co.uk

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MOTORING

FIAT PANDA CITY CROSS

FACTS AT

A

GLANCE

MODEL: Fiat Panda City Cross PRICE: £12,995otr ENGINE: 1.2 litre 69hp PERFORMANCE: 0-62mph in 14.5seconds and on to a top speed of 96mph CO2 EMISSIONS: 129 g/km COMBINED FUEL CONSUMPTION: 51.4 MPG Written by Sue Cooke Twitter @cookecars Press the accelerator on this Fiat too hard while in first gear and the little Panda runs out of puff! The answer I realised is to quickly engage second gear and then the urban crossover is totally happy to zoom off in whichever direction is required. The City Cross is the latest addition to the Panda family and is designed for customers looking for a practical city car with an off-road look at an affordable price. The Fiat Panda has always been a functional car and in its 23-year life span there have been 120 versions and special editions. The Panda has also achieved a lot of ‘firsts’. The first car to introduce city brake control for city driving and it was the first car in its segment to be powered by a diesel engine. Regarding exterior looks, I would describe the Panda expression as being cute, with huge soulful headlamps, much like its wilder namesake. But the 1.2 litre engine emits a sound which is far removed from cute. A better description might be a growling cross little Panda. But new owners will be very happy with the interior styling of this hatchback. The handle which opens the front door from the inside is placed very near to the hinges which seems to give the correct leverage to open the door easily. There are steering wheel controls for the radio and mobile phone and a mobile charger sits on top of the upgraded copper dashboard.

I drove the Panda Cross 4x4 when it was launched in 2014, around a flooded working quarry and its off-road capabilities are very impressive. Perhaps because of the vagaries of the British weather, the market for cars which have four by four capability, but also the technology to tackle muddy hills and wade through deep water, is increasing. But Fiat says there is a need for a city living front wheel drive car. The Panda City Cross is available in two new body colours: the pastel Minimal Grey and Electronica Blue, the latter available exclusively on this car. An optional pack can also be specified to customise the car. The City Cross Style pack adds ultrashine roofbars, side mouldings and skid plate as well as body coloured door mirrors. The beauty of this car is its maneuverability. Its compact size makes the five-door very much at home on city streets as it squeezes its little rear end between more formidable SUVs. Geared by a five-speed manual transmission and powered by a 69hp 1.2-litre petrol engine the Panda shows off its eco credentials with combined fuel consumption of 51.4mpg and CO2 emissions of 129g/km. Where others may hesitate in the urban jungle, this brave little Panda emits a throaty growl and just goes for it! The perfect antidote to stress free driving in the city.

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IS YOUR KITCHEN OR AGA LOOKING TIRED? Our expertise isn’t limited to repairing Bathrooms... Have a look at what we can do to transform your kitchen or Aga with a completely different look: DOORS & CUPBOARDS

If your cupboard doors are in need of a makeover, why not let us resurface and/or repair them? By changing the colour of your cupboard doors your kitchen will be given a totally new look – at the fraction of the cost of replacements.

16 Priors Park, Milton Keynes MK4 2bt

Phone: 07910 944 826

Mon-Fri: 9-5pm • Sat: 10-5pm • Sun: Closed Email: steph@theknifesharpenerguy.co.uk www.theknifesharpenerguy.co.uk The customer above had a full restoration of this gorgeous kitchen. Finished in a low sheen coating in the exact colours chosen by our customer. The results above speak for themselves.

AGA RESTORATION

Our customer wanted her Aga to fit in with the rest of her new updated colour scheme so her old chipped cream Aga was transformed for her. We carry out isolated repairs to any vitreous enamelled cooking range in situ, in any colour. We repair anything from isolated minor cosmetic damage to large fractures on the enamel. We specialise in full resurfacing & colour change options, like the customer’s AGA range above.

“Chop your own wood and it will warm you twice” Henry Ford. “Don’t wait for the first frost to plan your new fireplace” Orion Heating.

Danish stove excellence at Orion Heating “Dreammaker Bathrooms were fantastic. Our kitchen worktops were a very old fashioned biscuit colour and we wanted them changed to black. The guys did a fantastic job and the kitchen looks totally different - so much better! They did the whole thing in one day, cleared up really well afterwards and left me with a kitchen to be proud of. Highly recommended”.

Ivy Farm, The Green, Saxtead, Nr Woodbridge, Suffolk, IP13 9QG

01728 685 958

sales@dreammakerbathrooms.co.uk

www.dreammakerbathrooms.co.uk

www.facebook.com/dreammakerbathrooms

OrionHeating.co.uk 01279 813591

Takeley Business Centre Dunmow Road, Takeley, CM22 6SJ


HOME & GARDEN

Quick FIXES

KITCHEN

FIVE WAYS TO UPDATE YOUR KITCHEN IN TIME FOR CHRISTMAS If you’ve agreed to host Christmas but don’t think your kitchen is quite up for the task, don’t panic. Yes, there’s no chance of getting a complete renovation in time for the big day, but you can still create a fresh new look without spending the big bucks… Fixtures and fittings Updating cabinet and drawer handles is one of the quickest and most effective ways of giving a kitchen an instant update. This year has seen our cups and plates escape the cupboards and make their way to open shelving. A great way to show off your crockery (there’s no point hiding that Emma Bridgewater bowl in the cupboard, is there?), it can make navigating the kitchen easier and free up storage space for small kitchens. Let there be light Lighting is important in any room, but hanging a pendant light in the kitchen can transform an entire space. Pendants are great for accentuating dining tables and breakfast bars – the perfect way to highlight your festive feast. Work it Replacing a worktop can be a big task but it’s not as expensive as you might think. Laminate is the cheaper option but there are plenty of lookalikes available for wood and stone too. Changing the worktop will instantly make drab cabinets look more special. For a style statement opt for a marble worktop. If you can afford the real thing go for it, the trend is here to stay, if not there’s lots of marble effect options available.

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HADLEIGH KITCHEN & BEDROOM STUDIO 86 - 88 High Street, Hadleigh, Suffolk, IP7 5EF

Tel: 01473 827666 SIMPLE has never looked so stylish PERSONAL SERVICE QUA L I T Y PRODU C T S AT T E N T ION TO DETA I L

Kitchen-Sense of Harleston For Quality Fitted Kitchens and Appliances Kitchen-Sense - Common Sense

62 London Road, Harleston, IP20 9DZ

Tel: 01379 852 592 Fax: 01379 854 411

staff@kitchen-sense.co.uk | www.kitchen-sense.co.uk


Classic blue. Kestrel Furniture | www.kestrelfurniture.com

Stir up your style Mix your love for cotemporary design and cooking by using your appliances and kitchenware as decorative accessories. Mixing bowls and utensils no longer have to be banned to the cupboards. Creatively arrange items on counters and tables to add a homely feel. For a bit of festive flair incorporate muffin tins and dishtowels with seasonal motifs. This autumn/winter is the season of rich, jewel tones. Perfect for creating a warm and inviting ambience, the bold tones are ideal for instantly uplifting interiors. Combine with pattern fabrics to finish the look. A pop of colour Kitchen cabinets can be costly, if a complete overhaul isn’t on the cards, try a fresh coat of paint. Choose a colour that complements the worktop or try using a different tone for upper and lower cupboards. This season is all about ‘colour popping’. The trend for incorporating colour into kitchen design is here to stay for 2018. Helping to create a lifestyle space

as well as somewhere to eat, the right colour in the kitchen actually helps to improve moods, excite and increase appetite – it might just make the culinary skills even better in time for Christmas! Ed Hill, general manager, at Norfolk based Kestrel Kitchens said: “We currently paint around 95 per cent of our kitchens, compared to five years ago when customers were wanting a natural oak look. Contrasting colours help to accentuate elements of the room like a kitchen island or make a distinction between wall and base units. “This year citrus tones, classic navy and traditional muted palates have also been popular, particularly the Farrow and Ball grey’s including Purbeck Stone and Skimming Stone. Colour is one of the most important elements to kitchen design. Depending on the room colour, it can really help bring a space to life.” Now we just need to wait to see whether the trends follow the recent Dulux predictions of calming hues for 2018, or indeed metallic or dark colours will take precedent as other colour experts predict.

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Established producers of quality estate fencing, and gates tree guards. Easy to install. Suitable for all types of stock.

AG Lifestyle

Design led furniture and accessories for the home and garden A. T. W.

36 - 38 Station Road, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2SS 01787 312126 www.aglifestyle.co.uk

Open Monday to Saturday 9.30 AM - 5.00 PM

SALES

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OPEN: Mon - Fri 8:00-17:00

HIRE

19 Oak Industrial Park Chelmsford Road Great Dunmow Essex CM6 1XN Tel: 01371 874006 dunmow@georgebrowns.co.uk www.georgebrowns.co.uk

PARTS

Sat 8:00 - 12:00

Suppliers of all leading makes of agricultural, domestic & professional groundcare equipment. Visit our Dunmow showroom to see our full range of petrol mowers & grass machinery to suit all gardens & needs.

Full after sales service back up with spares and repairs. HIRE We have a fleet of Groundcare & Woodchippers Short Term Hire 1 day to 1 year Or Contract Hire 1 - 5 years www.georgebrownshire.co.uk

Bespoke designs also available. Please contact us for a quotation.

Tel: 01733 270 724

Email: sales@paddockfencing.com www.paddockfencing.com


The

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

Now the clocks have gone back there really is no denying we are within autumn’s clutches. If, like us, you have a number of deciduous trees in your garden, then you may feel a little like autumn is holding you hostage. Although it seems like the time to be taking it easy in the garden, now is the time to be planting spring or summer flowering bulbs. We are very focused on adding some summer colour to what was originally designed by Percy Cane to be a rose garden. Aiming for a more contemporary feel, we will be including some blue and white alliums timed to flower just ahead of the blue giant agapanthus planted earlier in the year. Having shopped around and decided on the exact varieties we would be using I placed an order for 300 allium bulbs to get us going. Now is also the time to start considering projects for the spring in terms of redesigning areas of your garden. There is nothing more satisfying than going to a garden centre to be charmed by the beautiful array of flowering plants on offer, but this can be a dangerous game if you’re looking

for a garden that will reward you with year round colour which is organised in a way that is pleasing on the eye. A lot of time and money can be saved, simply by sitting down with a pen and paper. It is important to consider not only what you want your finished garden to look like, but also what you need from that garden. Do you have pets or children? Do you like to sit in the sun or prefer to shelter in the shade? Do you prefer evergreen shrubs or do you like the thrill of a bright green bud in the spring? What kind of budget do you have? And all this is before we even start to think about what perennials or annuals to put on our shopping list! We will certainly be doing plenty of planning over the coming months as we still have another four of Percy’s borders to reawaken.

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

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Bellway at QEII Ascots Lane, Welwyn Garden City AL7 4HQ

Just £14,500 deposit* is all you need to buy your 2-bedroom apartment at Duchess Court, with Help to Buy.

We are delighted to present Duchess Court, a collection of 2-bedroom apartments, situated within the popular Bellway at QEII development. All homes feature contemporary fitted Symphony kitchens, spacious open-plan living areas and come with allocated parking. 2-bedroom apartments priced from £289,995

Help to Buy ...how it works* Based on a purchase price of £289,995 You pay a 5% deposit of £14,500 20% interest free equity loan of £57,999 is provided by the Government

Typical interior

You only need to secure a 75% mortgage of £217,496

To register your interest, visit www.bellway.co.uk or call 0333 577 5909 Computer generated image is indicative only. Interior image is indicative and may include optional upgrades, specification on site may differ. Price correct at time of going to press. *Help to Buy England YOUR HOME MAY BE REPOSSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON YOUR MORTGAGE OR ANY OTHER DEBT SECURED ON IT. Help to Buy is subject to the Homes and Communities Agency’s (HCA) terms and conditions and is available on new build homes up to £600,000 to customers where the property represents their only residence. Not available on second, additional homes, buy-to-let or let-to-buy properties. HomeBuy agent eligibility check required. The equity loan is interest free for the first five years and needs to be a minimum of 10% of the purchase price up to a maximum of 20%. After five years, an annual fee of 1.75% of the outstanding equity loan is charged. This is increased annually by RPI plus 1%. The equity loan must be repaid after 25 years, or earlier if you sell your home. A monthly management fee of £1 is payable by the equity loan borrower by direct debit, from the start of the loan until it is repaid. The management fee and interest fees are not capital repayments to the equity loan and do not reduce the amount owing. Help to Buy operates under terms and conditions imposed by the HCA and may be subject to change. Please visit www.helptobuy.gov.uk for further information.


PROPERTY

Location is Key in CAMBRIDGESHIRE More than 71 per cent of residents living in Cambridgeshire believe the location of a property is the most important aspect to consider when buying a new home, a survey has revealed. The survey, which has been conducted by local housebuilders Barratt and David Wilson Homes, who build properties in the area, revealed that when it came to choosing a new home, the most important aspect for buyers is where the property is based and what it is close to.

Within the survey, more than 42 per cent of people said they chose the location of their home because it was close to their family, whilst 31 per cent picked their location based on how close it was to their work. Alison Raine, Sales Director of Barratt Homes Northampton, said: “We are not surprised by the high percentage of residents who choose their new home based on its location, as this is key to any homebuyer.�

The other things residents took into consideration was the local amenities close to the home (40%) and the education facilities in the area (13%).

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The Room Upstairs by Susan Erskine-Jones

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

This year, the autumn seems particularly beautiful and vibrant in the East of the country. Likewise our region’s art galleries are a display of wondrous colour, texture and intrigue, echoing the glory of the season. This month, on 18-19 November, my own Norton Way Gallery, will be celebrating with a special weekend opening of our Autumn and Winter Collection 2017. In addition to our regular artists such as Flora Mclachlan, Anne Songhurst and Phil Greenwood RE, the gallery welcomes two beautiful new stars to its catalogue of skill and talent; Susan Erskine-Jones with her atmospheric and thought-provoking oils and Andrzej Szymczk with his spectacular foundry bronze sculptures. Inspired by her environment, Susan captures seemingly overlooked moments in everyday life and immortalizes them in paintings that appear to breathe and live before your very eyes. Her seascapes and quiet room interiors possess a magical light that shimmers and illuminates an endless passing passage of time. In a similar way, sculptor Andrzej Szymczk also creates works that appear to live and breathe in the

ARTS

THE ARTS COLUMN

Images of Discus Couple by Andrzej Szymczk

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

moment. His beautiful and flowing bronzes of aquatic life are imbued with the ebb and flow of an ocean’s imagined current. Andrzej has exhibited in Poland, Germany and now, with a fast developing reputation for excellence, in the UK. From concept to completion Andrzej’s sculpture is created and finished entirely by him. He casts his own bronze and applies and finishes his own carefully chosen patinas. He is truly an artist of perfection. Norton Way Gallery is dedicated to promoting artists who create from the heart. With an emphasis on skill and creativity, the gallery exclusively exhibits original work presented in a beautiful bijou space. We invite you to join us for a relaxing browse of this latest collection. Norton Way Gallery Autumn and Winter Collection 2017 Special Opening Weekend 18-19 November, continues until 28 February 51 Norton Way North, Letchworth Garden City, Herts, SG6 1BH Tel: 01462 685139 www.nortonwaygallery.com

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Babylon ARTS at Christmas Christmas with Cambridge Voices

A magical candle-lit concert with audience participation to get you in the festive mood. Saturday 18th November: 5pm St Mary’s Church, Ely (just a stone’s throw from Ely Cathedral) Online tickets www.babylonarts.org.uk Box Office : 01353 616991

Henri Matisse: Selling Exhibition Original Lithographs Babylon Gallery, Waterside, Ely, CB7 4AU

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Saturday 25 November – Sunday 17 December Open Tuesday – Sunday 12pm – 4pm. FREE entry All work is for sale.


NOVEMBER ARTS NEWS CHRISTMAS EXHIBITION LAUNCHES AT VK GALLERY, ST IVES If you’re looking for an extra special gift this Christmas visit the VK Gallery’s seasonal exhibition ‘Mistletoe & Wine’ from 1 November to 24 December.

Discover crafts by locat artists at VK Gallery, St Ives

The exhibition offers the chance to purchase one-off gifts crafted by local artists. New artists joining the gallery include Penny Flower and Mizuyo Yamashita who specialise in ceramics, Heather Power for glass and Rachel Butlin who produces jewellery. The exhibition will be changing daily, as pieces sell and are replaced with new work. Visitors can keep up-to-date with new items via the gallery’s social media and website. The gallery, located on Bridge Street, is open Monday to Saturday, 10am-5pm, with extended Christmas shopping hours on Sundays in December from 11am-3pm. www.vkgallery.co.uk

ART FAIR EAST 2017 Art Fair East returns to St Andrews Hall, Norwich, from 1-3 December.

London Street, Norwich by Howard Temperley

THE CAMBRIDGE ART FAIR The Cambridge Art Fair returns to the city this month from 10-12 November at the Guildhall for its fifth edition. The fair brings a fantastic selection of respected UK and international art galleries and dealers to the Guildhall. This year will bring highly collectible modern art from the 20th century by Modern Masters, as well as contemporary art by some of today’s leading international artists at a range of surprisingly affordable prices. Artists from the all over the UK will feature, as will artists from all over Europe and beyond. www.cambridgeartfair.com

Founded and curated by artists Will Teather and Brian Korteling the fair has become established as a regular feature in the annual art calendar and as a prestigious addition to Norwich’s Christmas shopping experience with the opportunity to buy original and authentic Christmas presents. The fair has lots for those new to the arts world as well as those looking to expand an existing art collection. Gallery specialists will be available to advise on collecting contemporary art, from affordable prints by recognised artists and new talent through to serious investments. Last year’s event included work from over 100 artists and attracted in excess of 3,500 visitors from across the country. The fair is one of the Eastern region’s largest and liveliest contemporary visual arts events, the kind of event rarely seen outside London. www.artfaireast.com

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P R E S E N T S

American Legends

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From Sinatra to Streisand, Basie to Bernstein and featuring the best of Big Band, Swing, Rock ‘n’ Roll and Motown, prepare to be entertained! The programme includes Send in the Clowns, Hoe Down, Stars & Stripes March and I Left My Heart in San Francisco.

Cliffs Pavillion, Southend Theatre Royal, Norwich 7.30pm Friday 1 December 7.00pm Sunday 3 December Call 01702 351135 or Call 01603 630000 or visit thecliffspavilion.co.uk visit theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk For more information visit rafinconcert.com

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NORFOLK

SECRET NORFOLK Life in a Fine County

Written by Nicole Ranaweera

NORWICH: THE NEXT BIG THING Norwich recently made the tabloids when Nightclub owner Alex Proud decided our fine city could be the next Notting Hill. After the usual provincial slurs were out the way, Alex Proud announced that Norwich is having “a moment” and could be the “new somewhere else”. For me however, Norwich has had the hip vibe going on for a while now. As any local will tell you, this is old news Alex! Norwich is England’s first UNESCO City of Literature; Norwich Lanes has been going from strength to strength for years now and as home to two Universities and the Writer’s Centre I feel it’s safe to say that the “arty vibe” is well and truly embedded into local life. But, Norwich is quirky, fun, laidback and modest; we embrace and celebrate the ‘Normal for Norfolk’ slur and proudly but quietly ‘Do Different’. Norwich has never needed to be labelled as cool or as the next big thing as it will most certainly continue to capture hearts long after its ‘moment’ has passed. If you’re now planning a visit thanks to Alex Proud’s article in the Times (www.thetimes.co.uk/edition/home/ nightclub-owner-alex-proud-on-why-norwich-could-bethe-next-notting-hill-mr0hl8rd0) let me give you a quick rundown to what’s hip and happening in Norwich in November:

1. FOOD: Norwich is hitting it hard on the vegan scene with new arrivals such as Ancestor’s Coffee shop, The Tipsy Vegan (food & cocktails) and Vegan Wok (the new vegan takeaway service). This November you can also pop along to OPENNorwich for the Norwich Vegan Christmas Market: www.facebook.com/events/1472994459443624 2. NIGHTLIFE: Day of the Dead is coming to Norwich! Think carnival atmosphere, candy skulls all over the place, and real Latin American flair! Find out more: www.fatsoma.com/day-of-the-dead-/m81v7ohu/day-of-thedead-norwich 3. FIREWORKS: Norwich’s annual Big Boom display on the 3 November kicks off at 7.30pm. Book a table at The Rooftop Gardens for the best view in town! 4. SHOPPING: Norwich’s Global Village Christmas Market is back for the weekend of the 30 November at The Forum. With mulled wine in hand, browse stalls from the finest traders, illustrators and makers selling beautiful gifts from around the world. Find out more: www.facebook.com/events/1042936325849130 5. CHRISTMAS: In Norwich you go big or you go home when it comes to decorations so it’s no surprise that the Tunnel of light is back for a second year. Come see the streets lit up in a magical way and really get into the spirit of Christmas.

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Is Norwich the most festive city in the UK? A Tunnel of Light with a tiara, 70ft projections onto a historic building and Santa on a boat – Norwich certainly doesn’t do Christmas by halves. In fact, this year the city is outdoing itself with an array of glittering attractions, spectacular shows and magical markets. If you were thinking of jetting off to a European city, forget it, save yourself the airfare and start planning your trip to Norwich. Here are just some of this season’s festive highlights:

Norwich Castle Museum & Art Gallery exterior Projections 16 November 2017 – 5 January 2018 Castle Meadow, Norwich Once again Norwich’s iconic Norman Castle located in the heart of the city will be the backdrop for incredible screen projections over the festive season. Enjoy 10 minute animations on this magnificent 70ft structure where the building is as beautiful as the film.

CHRISTMAS ATTRACTIONS Combine your Christmas shopping trip with a festive showstopper: Tunnel of Light, 16 November 2017 – 5 January 2018 Hay Hill, Norwich, FREE entry Following on from last year’s huge success the UK’s only Tunnel of Light is back in Norwich. Last year’s light formation was spectacular, but this year the city is topping it by adding a tiara! Standing 45 metres long, four metres high and six metres wide, the tunnel made from 50,000 pulsating LEDs with sequenced lights that reflect the patterns and colours of the Northern Lights is a seasonal showstopper and set to be one of the most Instagrammed Christmas attractions in the region – share your pictures with us using #eastlifexmas www.visitnorwich.co.uk/whats-happening/event/first-uktunnel-of-light

CHRISTMAS MARKETS Struggling to find the perfect present? Don’t worry, there’s a festive market almost every weekend in the lead up to the big day: Festive Fair at The Forum Friday 24 November – Monday 27 November 2017, FREE entry There’s nothing better than browsing a festive market to get you into the Christmas spirit. Luckily, there’s no shortage in Norwich with plenty of markets popping up in the lead up to the big day. Start with the largest Christmas market in the city at The Forum. New for 2017, the event will include indoor and outdoor stalls selling East Anglian arts, crafts and produce, perfect for Christmas presents and stocking fillers. There will be over 50 stalls selling everything from crafts and jewellery to pottery and arts, plus plenty of tempting treats and festive food. Over the four days there will

Norwich Tunnel of Light - Oliver Lall Thin Line Photography

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performance delivers an extravaganza of non-stop singing, dancing, music, humour and variety. Prices range from £31 - £44. www.thursford.com/christmas-spectacular.aspx

be plenty of seasonal music from The Pavilion Quintet, a popular Norfolk-based brass band who’ll be playing Christmas carols, to a fabulous festive choir or two. www.visitnorwich.co.uk/whats-happening/event/festivefair-at-the-forum Norwich Global Village Christmas Market The Forum, Norwich, 30 November - 2 December 2017, 10 am–5 pm Returning to The Forum, Norwich is the three-day Norwich Global Village Christmas Market! This market is rather special in that it’s presented by small local businesses and global artisans which specialise in offering beautiful products from around the globe (with some carefully-chosen Norfolk additions)! There’ll be indoor stalls on all three days with their finest traders, illustrators and makers selling beautiful gifts from around the world. Plus, on Saturday, outside, there will be festive food and carols, and an appearance from Father Christmas who will be holding story telling sessions at 11am and 3pm. www.norwichglobalvillagemarket.co.uk

Aladdin at Norwich Puppet Theatre Presented by Indigo Moon Norwich Puppet Theatre, Norwich, 25 November, 2.30pm This colourful tale from the Arabian Nights is set in the Middle East: a place of mystery and enchantment, full of strange, mythical creatures. Large scale contemporary Shadow Puppet theatre tells of a poor street boy who falls hopelessly in love with a Royal Princess. What magic would he need just to see her again? Follow his wild and dangerous adventures as he gets caught up in excitement way beyond his control. There are also workshop and show combination tickets available. www.puppettheatre.co.uk/whats-on/ workshops/family-arabian-nights Diva Opera at Holkham in period costume Holkham Hall, North Norfolk, 1-2 December, 7pm–10.30 pm, £40 ‘Tis The Season…A sparkling evening of song, perfect to get you into the festive spirit. A group of friends celebrate the start of the Christmas season in style and recall Yuletide stories of old. As their thoughts turn to warmer seasons they make plans for the year ahead. A selection of arias, songs and carols to lead us into the festive season. Accompanied by Bryan Evans, this fabulous cast includes Richard Suart, Caryl Hughes, David Stephenson and Ashley Catling dressed in Diva Opera’s finest period costume. www.holkham.co.uk This is just a taster of what’s on in Norwich this Christmas. For visits to Father Christmas, more shows, markets and workshops visit www.eastlife.co.uk

SEASONAL SHOWS Christmas is a time for celebrations and fun, so whether you have little ones to entertain or are a big kid at heart, book your ticket to one of these great shows: Thursford Christmas Spectacular 2017, 8 November - 23 December, 2pm & 7pm, Thursford Collection, Thursford, Fakenham, Norfolk, NR21 0AS Set in the magical surroundings of mechanical organs and fairground carousels, with a cast of 130 professional singers, dancers and musicians – many of whom are West End performers. The three-hour

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What’s on in Norfolk THEATRE, FILM AND SHOWS 31 Oct - 4 Nov Crazy For You Mistaken identities, heartbreak, happiness and a wealth of memorable tunes, feature in this exhilarating celebration of the great Broadway musicals. Norwich Theatre Royal, Theatre Street, Norwich, NR2 1RL 01603 630000 www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk 7-Nov Sick ‘Sick’ is a storytelling show about one receptionist’s journey through four years of cuts to the national health service. Norwich Arts Centre, St. Benedict’s Street, Norwich, NR2 4PG. 01603 660352. norwichartscentre.co.uk 7-Nov Alone In Berlin This true-life tale of courage unfolds against the tumultuous backdrop of Berlin in 1940. Otto and Anna Quangel are a working class husband and wife doing their best to ride out the war. When their son is killed fighting on the frontlines, however, everything changes. Princess Theatre, 13 The Green, Hunstanton, PE36 5AH 01485 532252 www.princesshunstanton.co.uk 12-Nov Ghostpoet Immigrant Boogie marks the first new material from ‘Ghostpoet’ since the release of his third and much lauded, Mercury-nominated Shedding Skin album in 2015. Norwich Arts Centre, St. Benedict’s Street, Norwich, NR2 4PG. 01603 660352 norwichartscentre.co.uk 13-Nov Nina Conti British Comedy Award Winner Nina Conti improvises unforgettable puppetry using live audience members in cartoonish masks, with the help if her simian sidekick Monkey. King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, Tuesday Market Place, King’s Lynn, PE30 1JW 01553 764864. www.kingslynncornexchange.co.uk 14-Nov Another Mother’s Son Set during World War II, when the island of Jersey was occupied by the Nazis, and based on the true story of Louisa Gould, who took in an escaped Russian POW and hid him over the

course of the war. Princess Theatre, 13 The Green, Hunstanton, PE36 5AH. 01485 532252 www.princesshunstanton.co.uk 15-18 Nov The Vicar of Dibley Christmas After coping with the village quiz and organising the week of Radio Dibley, Geraldine is stunned when Alice actually has a good idea. Why not put on a Nativity play? Why not indeed! What can possibly go wrong? Sheringham Little Theatre, 2 Station Road, Sheringham NR26 8RE . 01263 822347 www.sheringhamlittletheatre. com 16-Nov That’ll Be The Day Christmas Topped with lashings of Christmas spirit get ready to party as ‘That’ll Be The Day’ returns with its brand new 2017 Christmas Show! King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, Tuesday Market Place, King’s Lynn, PE30 1JW. 01553 764864. www.kingslynncornexchange.co.uk 17-25 Nov Dial M for Murder With a stylish 1950’s setting, and more twists and turns than even an Agatha Christie, this is the perfect tale for a dark winter’s night. Maddermarket Theatre, St Johns Alley, Norwich, NR2 1DR 01603 620917. www.maddermarket.co.uk 17, 18, 24, 25 November & 1, 2 December Crooked Wood A black comedy about ruthless property developers trying to dislodge an elderly lady from the last remaining property on their prime site. Westacre Theatre, River Road, Westacre, PE32 1UD. 01760 755800. www.westacretheatre.com 18-Nov The Abominable Snowman With footsteps so big you can fall into them no wonder everyone’s afraid of him. But Snowball isn’t scary at all. You’d be better to call him the Adorable Snowman! Norwich Theatre Royal, Theatre Street, Norwich, NR2 1RL 01603 630000 www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk

21-25 Nov Slava’s Snow Show Enter Slava’s snowy world for a once in a lifetime, joyous, funpacked event culminating in a blizzard that puts you firmly at the centre of the action! Norwich Theatre Royal, Theatre Street, Norwich, NR2 1RL. 01603 630000 www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk 21-Nov Saving Christmas The multi-award winning Lavender Hill Mob Theatre company once again take to the corn exchange stage to bring you a festive variety show, which will display the many talents of a varied cast. with songs, sketches and dances - all designed to put you very much in the festive mood! King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, Tuesday Market Place, King’s Lynn, PE30 1JW. 01553 764864. www.kingslynncornexchange.co.uk 22-23 Nov An Afternoon of Eastern Delights An afternoon of eastern promise with live music from Pip Sessions and the Phoenix voices. Maddermarket Theatre, St Johns Alley, Norwich, NR2 1DR. 01603 620917 www.maddermarket.co.uk 22-Nov Instructions for Border Crossing A twelve-year-old girl sneaks across the border into her own country. Her parents watch her on a computer screen. The works of a half-forgotten performance artist seem to hold the key to bringing down a brutal system operating on our behalf and under our noses. Do you join in? Or do you look the other way? Norwich Arts Centre, St. Benedict’s Street, Norwich, NR2 4PG 01603 660352 norwichartscentre.co.uk 25-Nov Someone Like You (The Adele Songbook) The show faithfully recreates the magic of the three record-breaking albums 19, 21 and 25. King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, Tuesday Market Place, King’s Lynn, PE30 1JW. 01553 764864. www. kingslynncornexchange.co.uk 25-30 Nov The Cromer Pier Christmas Show Over the last few years it has got bigger and bigger and is

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Featuring: Gifts from Santa Claus Nursery Railway Train Ride Gallopers Rides Sweet Shop Dads Army at Christmas Childrens Entertainment th 2017 toth Sun Dec 29th Nov Sat | Dec2nd 5th &Dec 6th,12 & 13th24th ,19th,20 ,22nd,23rd & 24th

Check bressingham.co.uk for entry times

Search Bressingham Steam

Book online at bressingham.co.uk or call 01379 686900


ADVERTORIAL

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now considered one of the best family Christmas Shows in Norfolk, strenghening the county’s festive entertainment offering. Pavilion Theatre, Cromer Pier, Cromer, NR27 9HE. 01263 512495 www.cromerpier.co.uk/whats-on 27 Nov - 2 Dec How the Other Half Loves As Bob and Fiona clumsily try to cover up their affair, their spouses’ intervention only adds to the confusion. William and Mary Featherstone become hopelessly stuck in the middle, falsely accused of adultery and with no idea as to how they’ve become involved. Norwich Theatre Royal, Theatre Street, Norwich, NR2 1RL 01603 630000 www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk

19-Nov The Stylistics The Stylistics remain the real deal, fabulously entertaining and musically breathtaking, plying everyone with the hits that made them a household name. Princess Theatre, 13 The Green, Hunstanton, PE36 5AH. 01485 532252. www.princesshunstanton.co.uk 26-Nov Laura White Laura’s varied and lively programme of jazz vocals combined with her effervescent charm and personality, accompanying her will be the ever popular Simon Brown Trio. Sheringham Little Theatre, 2 Station Road, Sheringham, NR26 8RE. 01263 822347. www.sheringhamlittletheatre.com

29-Nov Holly At Christmas – Buddy Holly & The Cricketers For quarter of a century, this breathtaking show has rock ’n’ rolled audiences across the globe. Princess Theatre, 13 The Green, Hunstanton, PE36 5AH 01485 532252. www.princesshunstanton.co.uk

1-Dec Christmas with Frank, Dean & Judy Strictly Theatre Co presents a festive tribute to the music of Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin & Judy Garland. Maddermarket Theatre, St Johns Alley, Norwich NR2 1DR. 01603 620917 www.maddermarket.co.uk

MUSIC 4-Nov Legends of American Country Show Following a sell-out UK tour in 2016 direct from Ireland, Europe’s No 1 Country music show ‘The Legends of American Country’ returns for another fantastic night of toe tapping Country classics. Princess Theatre, 13 The Green, Hunstanton, PE36 5AH 01485 532252 www.princesshunstanton.co.uk

ARTS & EXHIBITIONS 4-29 Nov Christmas Exhibition Part 1 The first of two great collections of work for Christmas from selected artists. Bircham Gallery, 14 Market Place, Holt, NR25 6BW 01263 713312. www.birchamgal lery.co.uk/exhibitions

9-Nov Richard Digance He supported Robin Williams at The London Palladium, and supported Steve Martin in The USA. On TV he played guitar with Queen’s Brian May, Status Quo and The Moody Blues. Yes, after 50 years he’s still what he loves. Sheringham Little Theatre, 2 Station Road, Sheringham, NR26 8RE. 01263 822347. www. sheringhamlittletheatre.com 11-Nov Bootleg Swing Norwich’s outstanding tribute to Louis Jordan, Ella Fitzgerald & more. Norwich Arts Centre, St. Benedict’s Street, Norwich, NR2 4PG. 01603 660352 norwichartscentre.co.uk 17-Nov The South When great British pop institution, The Beautiful South split in 2007, some members of the band didn’t feel ready to hang up their microphones or instruments just yet…Princess Theatre, 13 The Green, Hunstanton PE36 5AH. 01485 532252 www.princesshunstanton.co.uk

4-Nov ‘First Year Anniversary’ Celebration Tess will be celebrating her first year of opening the gallery. Over the next few weeks, Tess has some new and exciting British mixed media artists joining the gallery, including textiles, ceramics and jewellery. There will be also be plenty of small, affordable, unframed work, cards and luxury gift items. 3 Hoppers Yard, Holt, NR25 6LN. tessainleygallery.com 18 Nov - 3 Apr 2018 Roger Law: From Satire to Ceramics Opening on 18 November explores the full range of Law’s extraordinary career, in an exhibition that looks at his artistic and intellectual formation, and the successive environments he worked in. Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts, UEA, Norwich, NR4 7TJ. scva.ac.uk SPECIAL EVENTS 11 Oct - 24 Nov UEA Autumn 2017 Literary Festival University of East Anglia’s Autumn Literary Festival always boasts to be a special occasion providing a great opportunity to hear the thoughts of many influential literary minds.

Individual tickets: £8 (includes booking fee). University of East Anglia, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, NR4 7TJ. 01603 456161 9-Nov Age UK Norfolk Fashion Show Age UK Norfolk is a local independent charity that provides support services to older people across the county and are celebrating 70 years of existence and hard work this year. Tickets £10 and are available from Age UK Norfolk Fundraising Team on: 01603 787111. Jarrold, 1-11 London St, Norwich NR2 1JF www.jarrold.co.uk 14-Nov Candlelit Afternoon Tea Enjoy classic Christmas themed afternoon tea set in a candlelit setting and listen to some classic Christmas music. Cupcakes and Bubbles, 5 Timberhill, Norwich NR1 3JZ. 01603 614600 www.cupcakesandbubbles.co.uk 16-Nov Norwich Christmas Lights Switch On Don’t miss the party of the year when the streets of Norwich sparkle and shine and music fills the night at the annual Christmas Switch-on. City Centre, Norwich AUCTION & ANTIQUES 10 & 19 Nov Dunston Hall Antiques Fair Around 55 tables of good quality antiques. To include silver, fine jewellery, ceramics, glass, clocks, militaria, art deco/ nouveau, bronzes and more. . Open 10.30am - 4pm. Entry £3. Dunston Hall Hotel, Ipswich Road, NR14 8PQ. 07596 436260 12 & 26 Nov Blakeney Antique & Collectors Fair Maximum 24 Tables. Well attended throughout the year. Free Parking. Open 10am-4pm. Admission £1. Blakeney Village Hall, Blakeney, NR25 7NQ 01263 713120 18-Nov Norwich Does Vintage This vintage fair will be full of gorgeous vintage fashion, homewares, kitchenalia, alongside fab live music, a vintage tearoom, free vintage workshops, dancing – and more! £2 entry. OPEN Norwich, 20 Bank Plain, Norwich 26-Nov Hingham Antiques Fair Hingham antiques fair has been running for 18 years. 50+ stands to include furniture, jewellery, ceramics, glass, Silver, art, vintage, decorative and much more. Open: 9.30am-3.30pm, Entry £1. The Sports Hall, Springfield Way, Hingham. 01953 483691

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Buy in store or online www.pebble-sanctuary.com 01462 458885 www.pebble-sanctuary.com 01462SG5 458885 17-18 Bucklersbury, Hitchin, 1BB 17-18 Bucklersbury, Hitchin, SG5 1BB

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There’s plenty of seasonal fun in Hitchin for everyone this Christmas, here’s a few dates for your diary… The festivities begin with the Christmas tree light switch on Friday 24 November. Residents and visitors will be coming together for an evening full of festive cheer. Featuring Choir on Fire, The Signing Elves and Living Nativity, plus music and plenty of street food stalls, it offers everything you need for a family-friendly Christmassy evening. The lights will officially be switched on at 6.15pm. The Big Weekend returns on Saturday 9 December. Guaranteed to get you into the Christmas spirit it will feature The Santa Express Landtrain, a giant snowglobe and Santa’s grotto – he’ll be arriving in style on the Market Place with a reindeer procession at 12.20pm. Add in street entertainers and more festive entertainment, and you’ll feel as though you’ve been transported to the North Pole – lets just hope it’s not as cold! The event will hopefully allow you to finish (or start) your Christmas shopping with late night shopping until 8pm. The fun continues on Sunday 10 December with ‘Independents Christmas Shopping Day’. It’s a chance to support the local community and traders and buy gifts from local businesses and craftsmen. As you shop, the choir will sing and the day is rounded off with a lantern procession at 4pm followed by carols around the Christmas tree with Churches Together and Hitchin Band. For more details on Christmas events in Hitchin visit www.hitchinherts.com/hitchin-bid After all that, we’re hoping you’ll finally be ready for Christmas! Remember to visit www.eastlife.co.uk for exciting events in Hertfordshire in the lead up to the big day! Image credit: The Big Weekend 2016, by JAF Milligan

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• Sizes from A–K cup • Professional measuring and fitting service • Designer swimwear and beautiful lingerie • The perfect gift for that special person

British Schools Museum

Christmas Fair

Friday night for roasted chestnuts, mulled wine, bacon rolls, carols singers, Victorian Christmas in the Headmaster’s House + gift shop and stalls.

GIFT VOUCHERS AVAILABLE

Saturday for our famous traditional fair in the Great Schoolroom + Victorian Christmas in the Headmaster’s House.

Friday 8th December 4.30pm – 7.30pm &

Saturday 9th December 10am – 2pm Free Entry

www.britishschoolsmuseum.co.uk

5 Arcade Walk, Hitchin, Hertfordshire, SG5 1EE 01462 433453 venuslingerie@unicombox.co.uk

41/42 Queen Street, Hitchin, SG4 9TS 01462 - 420144

The Hitchin British Schools Trust is a Registered Charity No. 1010345. We are an independent A.C.E accredited museum.

Venus at K.

32 Bucklesbury, Hitchin, Herts, SG5 1BG - Tel: 01462 455 398 Award winning gallery, Offering Arts Council England, Own Art Scheme, Owned by Hertfordshire Artist, Emmeline Webb Stocking British artists & designers, affordable, original artwork.

Chilli B’s Hitchin

Chilli B can be found in a beautifully restored Victorian building in Bucklersbury. Here the food is prepared fresh to order. The menu is unique, imaginative and caters for the fussiest eater. Breakfast or Lunch. On The Run or relax in The Lounge, we’ve got it covered.

Many gift and homeware items designed in house. established since 2011.

Our winter and Christmas exhibition begins on 16th November

4-5 West Alley, Hitchin, SG5 1EG www.theartnest.com

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Winter florals and a little bit of sparkle…the perfect new trends for your Xmas wardrobe Jacket £59, Dress £89 and sparkly brooches from £15 Late Night Shopping Thursday 30th November till 8pm

£10 Voucher To be used before 25 December 2017 on purchases over £30. Only one voucher per customer.

Noa Noa, 21a Market Place, Olney, MK46 4BA 01234 713375. www.noanoa-olney.co.uk

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Olney

When the festive season arrives the historic market town of Olney comes alive with Christmas cheer. Olney Town Council hosts perhaps one of the biggest and most popular Christmas events around each year; ‘A Dickens of a Christmas’. Bringing a piece of Victorian England to the town and attracting thousands of visitors, it’s a must for anyone who loves Christmas or who wants to experience traditional festive fun – trust us, even Scrooge would find it difficult not to get into the Christmas spirit here! This year’s annual Dickens of a Christmas market will be held on Sunday 3 December, 10am to 4pm. Traders dressed in Victorian clothes will occupy Olney’s Market Place and High Street with stalls offering festive treats. As the smell of roasting chestnut and mulled wine fill the air, visitors can browse everything from an array of gifts, holly wreaths and wrapping to handmade crafts. Delicious mulled wine, hot chocolate and turkey rolls, among other tempting festive treats, offer the perfect excuse to warm up. The Farmers market offers delicious local produce and is the ideal opportunity to get some tasty ingredients if you’re planning a Christmas party. Decorated trees will line the high street, lights will sparkle and the town’s main tree will all add to the festive atmosphere. There will be an opportunity for children to visit Father Christmas and his elves in the grotto, meet birds of prey, pet the reindeers and enjoy fairground rides. There are brass bands, street

entertainers plus three additional craft fairs. If the cold becomes too much, most of the town’s pubs and restaurants will be open where you can warm up with a hot beverage. If you fancy missing the hustle and bustle and have some serious Christmas shopping to do be sure to visit Olney’s Christmas Late Night Shopping event on 30 November. Olney is a little hotspot for shopping with a range of antiques stores, toy shops and the latest fashions. The town’s lovely boutiques, independent stores and galleries will open until 9pm.

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Visit Dusk Till Dawn for the largest collection of elegant evening wear and wedding outfits in Bucks. In store stylist to help. Sizes 6 -24. You won’T be DisappoinTeD!!

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!

0845 652 7300

1st Floor Dagnall House, Stanley Court, Olney, Buckinghamshire, MK46 5NH

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01234 712200

11a Market Place, Olney, MK46 4EA, 01234 930080 36 Beech Road St Albans, AL3 5AS, 01727 809944

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OLD SHANGHAI RESTAURANT Specialists in Cantonese, Peking & Szechuan cuisine Warm and friendly service guaranteed Good food and exclusive wines Small or large parties catered for | Takeaway available

At Scott Brown Hair, our aim is simple. To provide all of the expert barber and grooming services the modern man needs. Scott and his team are creative, highly trained and knowledgeable, which makes us one of the leading men’s salons outside of London.

Bookings now being taken for Christmas!

FOUNTAIN COURT, OLNEY, BUCKINGHAMSHIRE

01234 711108

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17a High Street, Olney (The Old Law Chambers) Bucks, MK46 4ED Tel: 01234 240260 / 240195


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Better and faster than IPL/Laser ALL SKIN, ALL HAIR, ALL YEAR SHR Super Hair Removal Call us now for more information and a free no obligation consultation Amici Beauty Lounge, 98 High Street, Olney, Bucks MK46 4EB Tel: 01234 713646 | email: info@amicibeautylounge.co.uk www.amicibeautylounge.uk ACRYLIC NAILS | MANICURES | PEDICURES | GEL COLOUR | HD BROWS LVL LASHES | FACIALS | MASSAGE | WAXING | MAKEUP | SUNBED | GIFT VOUCHERS

We are open Every day in December until Christmas. Come along to see our festive decorated rooms full of treasures and seasonal essentials, such as Glasses, Decanters, Trays, Candelabra and festive tea lights for your Christmas table and lots more besides. Many gift ideas for the whole family & friends With prices to suit all tastes

We look forward to wishing you a Happy Christmas here at

Leo Antiques & Interiors 19 Market Place, Olney 10.30am to 5pm

WILDLEAF ARE PLEASED TO ANNOUNCE THE OPENING OF OUR FURNITURE AND HOME SHOP FORMERLY PINE ANTIQUES.

Our team of expert florists are commited to providing the best service to our customers and to staying at the sharp end of design and innovation.

Come to us for bespoke furniture and kitchens and ideas / gifts for the home. We also have a fantastic display of Christmas decorations following on from the tradition of previous years.

Our team of florists have won a number of awards including being Chelsea Medalists and becoming finalists in in the Florist of the Year & Florist of the Future competitions.

Our shop is open from Mondays to Saturdays 09.00-17.30.

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or visit our website at www.flowershop.uk.com 10 Market Place, Olney MK46 4EA 01234 711065

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Cakestand and Crumb is a little gem, hidden down a narrow yard, off the Market Square in Ampthill.

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The Vintage Café and Bakery opens Tuesday to Sunday and serves a fantastic range of cakes, lunches & afternoon teas. Christmas afternoon tea available from Tuesday 21st November, booking required

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07843 574379 7 Kings Arms Yard, Ampthill, Bedfordshire MK45 2PJ cakestandandcrumb@hotmail.co.uk www.cakestandandcrumb.co.uk

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Traditional homemade Italian food served in a friendly & relaxed atmosphere.

91 Dunstable St. Ampthill Tel: (01525) 404666 204a High St. North Dunstable Tel: (01582) 475797

www.donatellospizzeria.co.uk


Christmas in

AMPTHILL The community spirit is never stronger than at Christmas in Ampthill, where local businesses, residents and visitors come together to celebrate the festive season.

Tickets are only £3 for children and adults on the door. This will be followed by a screening of classic Christmas romcom Love Actually at 6.15pm. Tickets priced £5 for adults, £3 children.

The Switch On Christmas starts early in Ampthill with the Christmas light switch on scheduled for the 19 November. Head on down to the Market Square from 2.30pm to enjoy a funfair, stalls and attractions as well as seeing the big man himself, Father Christmas. The lights are switched on at 4.30pm.

Wrap up warm and get into the festive spirit with the Friends of Ampthill Great Park’s Santa Stroll and Christmas market on 3 December. Raise money walking the park dressed as Santa, then enjoy carol singing and festive craft and food stalls.

Festive Events On the same day as the switch on, Carrie’s Handmade & Vintage Fair will be setting up in The Stables Venue, The White Hart from 11am – 5.30pm. Enjoy browsing a selection of local, handmade Christmas gifts, treats and vintage goodies. One not to miss! For anyone looking for a trip back to the 90s for their Christmas celebrations, then the classic Christmas movie, Home Alone, will be shown at the Zonita Cinema at Parkside Hall on 2 December at 2pm.

Puss in Boots is the pantomime of choice this year at Connolly Hall. Watch performances from 16-17 December. Buy tickets at www.ticketsource.co.uk/mauricekachuk Food and Drink If you are looking for a Christmas meal in Ampthill this year, you’d better get booking as popular venues such as The White Hart (www.thewhitehartampthill.co.uk), Donatello’s Pizzeria (www.donatellospizzeria.co.uk) and Fratelli (www.fratelli-italian.co.uk) are all now taking bookings for Christmas parties, dinners and dos.

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SHOWROOM OPEN DAYS 10th & 11th November

Furniture, Silver & Maps Tea area open both days

I believe in keeping an open mind Open Morning Friday 17th November, 10am Telephone: 01234 361918 www.bedfordgirlsschool.co.uk Bedford Girls’ School is part of The Harpur Trust

Tythe Farm, School Lane, Colmworth MK44 2JZ 10-4pm each day - 01234 378866

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What’s on in Beds, Bucks & Herts THEATRE, FILM AND SHOWS 30 Oct - 19 Nov Film: Victoria & Abdul The extraordinary true story of an unexpected friendship in the later years of Queen Victoria’s remarkable rule. Rhodes Theatre, 1-3 South Road, Bishop’s Stortford, CM23 3JG. 01279 710200. www.rhodesbishopsstortford.org.uk 7-11 Nov Monty Python’s Spamalot ‘Spamalot’ follows King Arthur, his squire Patsy and the Knights of the Round Table as they embark on their epic search for the Holy Grail. Featuring killer rabbits, flatulent Frenchmen and the knights who say…Ni! This musical will have you looking on the bright side of life! Watford Palace Theatre, 20 Clarendon Road, Watford, WD17 1JZ. 01923 235455. www.watfordpalacetheatre.co.uk 8-Nov Joel Dommett One of the UK’s most energetic and exciting comedians returns to the road with his solo show, Joel Dommett: LIVE. Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road, Watford, WD17 3JN 01923 571 102 www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk 8-12 Nov Awful Auntie From the award-winning producers of Gangsta Granny comes the world premiere of David Walliams’ amazing tale of frights, fights and friendship, featuring a very large owl, a very small ghost and a very awful Auntie! Milton Keynes Theatre, Marlborough Gate, Milton Keynes, MK9 3NZ. 0844 8717652 www.atgtickets.com 8-Nov Phill Jupitus: Juplicity Join stand-up comedian, poet, improviser, and TV stalwart Phill Jupitus for over an hour of tales, laughs and diversions. The Stables, Stockwell Lane, Milton Keynes, MK17 8LU 01908 280800. www.stables.org 10-NovFaith - The George Michael Legacy A musical journey of 35 years of hit records from Wham to George’s solo career, the show and production are based upon

the George Michael 25 live tour (also known as the 25th anniversary tour). Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road, Watford WD17 3JN. 01923 571 102 www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk 11-Nov Milton Jones Is Out There In his brand new show he’ll be putting his foot down and lifting the lid on the pedal bin of lies of the media (which doesn’t include this press release obviously). He will also be scaling the heights of fashion at the risk of falling into a terrible cravat. Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road, Watford, WD17 3JN 01923 571 102 www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk 11-Nov Ray Mears: Born To Go Wild Ray will take you on a journey that he deeply values for cultural, spiritual, moral and aesthetic reasons and explain why he believes these are vital for the human spirit and creativity. The Gordon Craig Theatre, Lytton Way, Stevenage, SG1 1LZ. 01438 363200. www.gordon-craig.co.uk 12-Nov Remembering This programme comprises totally original work written and presented by members of the Bedford Poetry Company. The poems celebrate our common past and recall it in all its rich variety of mood. This Armistice Sunday presentation will also feature a special tribute to the fallen. Quarry Theatre, 26 St Peter’s Stree, Bedford, MK40 2NN 01234 362337 www.quarrytheatre.org.uk 14-18 Nov The Night Alive A warm and stylish play by Conor McPherson that deftly mines the humanity to be found in the most unlikely situations. The Place Theatre, Bradgate Road, Bedford, MK40 3DE. 01234 354321. www.theplacebedford.org 14-Nov Child Of The Divide A remarkable story of family, identity and belonging; marking the 70th anniversary of the partition of India. Summer 1947 and 16 million people are on the move between India and the newly-formed Pakistan. Amid the

violent political upheaval young Pali’s fingers slip from his father’s hand, and his destiny changes forever. Broadway Theatre Eastcheap, Letchworth Garden City, SG6 3DD. 01462 681300 www.broadway-letchworth.com 14-Nov Ed Byrne: Spoiler Alert Come and watch as Byrne takes this question, turns it upside down and shakes it until the funny falls out. Go on, spoil yourself. The Stables, Stockwell Lane, Milton Keynes, MK17 8LU 01908 280800. www.stables.org 15-18 Nov Nell Gwynn It is 1660 and we find young “orange seller” Nell in Drury Lane at the beginning of her unlikely career as the first female star of the stage, unaware of who is in the audience one fateful night. Hertford Theatre, The Wash, Hertford, SG14 1PS. 01992 531500 www.hertfordtheatre.com 17-Nov Rob Brydon: I Am Standing Up... These dates are Rob Brydon’s first stand up shows since his sell out national tour and West End run of 2009. The Gordon Craig Theatre, Lytton Way, Stevenage SG1 1LZ. 01438 363200 www.gordon-craig.co.uk 19-Nov Shark in the Park Timothy Pope is looking through his telescope –but wait, is that a Shark, in the Park!? From the creative team behind ‘The Hairy Maclary show’ - see all 3 of Nick Sharratt’s ‘Shark in the Park’ books live on Stage!Watford Palace Theatre, 20 Clarendon Road, Watford, WD17 1JZ 01923 235455. www.watfordpalacetheatre.co.uk 19-Nov The Navigator Inspired by the true life stories of the men and women who served their country during the Second World War, an emotional and powerful new musical, ‘The Navigator’, tells the story of a Lancaster bomber crew and the women who shared their lives. Broadway Theatre, Eastcheap, Letchworth Garden City, SG6 3DD. 01462 681300 www.broadway-letchworth.com

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21-23 Nov Glyndebourne’s Cosi Fan Tutte A cheeky double dare results in false pretenses and true love in Mozart’s dark comedy. Milton Keynes Theatre,Marlborough Gate, Milton Keynes, MK9 3NZ 0844 8717652. www.atgtickets.com 25-Nov Paul Foot: Tis Pity She’s A Piglet In Paul’s first new show in two years, Professor Ketchup and his camembert piglet join forces as he tackles the big issues such as terrorism. Plus Ant ‘n Dec, Immigration X-Factor and breakfast. The Stables, Stockwell Lane, Milton Keynes, MK17 8LU 01908 280800. www.stables.org 25-Nov Waterloo The Best Of Abba This phenomenal new tribute show looks back at the sensational rise to stardom of Agnetha, Bjorn, Benny and Anni-Frid and gives fans the opportunity to experience the thrill of a live Abba show! Rhodes Theatre, 1-3 South Road, Bishop’s Stortford, CM23 3JG. 01279 710200. www.rhodesbishopsstortford.org.uk 28-Nov Jimmy Carr Jimmy is gathering a selection of his very best jokes along with brand-new material for the ultimate comedy show. Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road, Watford, WD17 3JN. 01923 571 102 www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk 29-Nov Jon Richardson Come and see what Jon Richardson can do with words when he has more than thirty seconds to work with. Or should that be “with which to work”? Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road, Watford, WD17 3JN 01923 571 102 www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk 29 Nov - 2 Dec As You Like It Set in the modern world of alternative facts and fiercely jealous leaders, the young Rosalind and her friend Celia find themselves pawns in a power struggle. Together they decide to flee the city and its politics for the forest where they discover a countryside wonderland of peace and harmony. Broadway Theatre, Eastcheap, Letchworth Garden City, SG6 3DD. 01462 681300 www.broadway-letchworth.com 29-Nov That’ll Be the Day Christmas Show The UK’s most popular Rock‘n’Roll variety show celebrates the festive season with all your favourite Christmas

classics from the 50s, 60s & 70s, plus plenty of hilarious comedy. Aylesbury Waterside Theatre, Exchange Street, Aylesbury, HP20 1UG. 0844 871 7607. www.atgtickets.com MUSIC 9-Nov Buddy Holly And The Cricketers Country and folk from the singer-songwriter, known for the song ‘What Colour Is The Wind’. The Stables, Stockwell Lane, Milton Keynes, MK17 8LU 9-Nov Peter White The award-winning singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist, formerly of Fairground Attraction, performs folk and mainstream jazz. Harpenden Public Halls, Southdown Road, Harpenden, AL5 1PD. 020 7332 1911 www.peterwhite.com 16-Nov Kokomo Three 1980s legends perform a triple headline concert as Midge Ure is joined by his Band Electronica to perform classic songs from across his career. Alban Arena, Civic Centre, St Albans, AL1 3LD. 020 7332 1911 www.kokomo.band 17-Nov Thank Abba For The Music The Dublin-born award-winner performs her unique brand of rockabilly, blues and jazz originals in support of the album, ‘Life Love Flesh Blood’. Corn Exchange, St Paul’s Square, Bedford, MK40 1SL, 01582 767525 www.thankabbaforthemusic.co.uk 23-Nov John Mayall The long-established and highly successful rock band have a selection of their huge list of hits performed live. Radlett Centre, Aldenham Avenue, Radlett, WD7 8HL. 01733 314446. www.johnmayall.com ARTS & EXHIBITIONS 18-25 Nov One Week Show Three artists; Audrey Imber, Jo Spyropolous and Isabel Grundy, share the Eagle Gallery space for one week only. The Eagle Gallery, 101 Castle Road, Bedford, MK40 3QP. 01234 346995. www.eaglegalleryartists.co.uk 21 Nov - 24 Dec‘The Elegant Universe’ by Kim Major-George & Steve Thorp A collection of hand pulled prints by the established artist printmaker Kim Ma jor-George and connecting poetry by Steve Thorp. Hertford Theatre Gallery, The Wash, Hertford, SG14 1PS 27 Nov-24 Dec Christmas Show

All the Eagle Artists put on a show to remember - this time with added tinsel. The Eagle Gallery, 101 Castle Road, Bedford, MK40 3QP. 01234 346995 www.eaglegalleryartists.co.uk SPECIAL EVENTS 4-Nov St Albans Cathedral Fireworks Spectacular Come and enjoy a spectacular event full of fantastic fireworks, food and fun for the whole family! Verulamium Park, St Albans 10-12 Nov The Knebworth Christmas Fair A wide range of Christmas and seasonal goodies including art, craft, design, food and drink. Knebworth House, Knebworth, SG1 2AX. 01206 263088 www.oakleighfairs.co.uk 18-Nov Christmas Fair Christmas Fair in aid of charities at St Paul’s church. St Paul’s Church, Bedford 19-Nov Christmas Craft & Gift Fair Find some unique Christmas presents for all the family. Hertford Theatre, The Wash, Hertford, SG14 1PS 01992 531500 24-25 Nov Hertford Christmas Gala The annual Christmas Gala event will take place on Friday with Christmas markets, street entertainment, performance stage, petting reindeer and stalls, Christmas grotto and Christmas tree light switch on. The 25th sees Christmas markets, craft workshops and seasonal offers will be available throughout the day. Town Centre, Hertford AUCTIONS & ANTIQUES 19-Nov Biggleswade Antique & Vintage Fair Over 45 stalls offering a wide range of antiques from silver, quality jewellery, vintage, pictures, books, china, postcards and small furniture. Open 9.30am-4pm. Admission £1.50. The Weatherley Centre, Eagle Farm Road, Biggleswade, SG18 8JH. 01480 382432 25-Nov Bedfordshire’s Antiques & Collectors fair St Pauls Jewellery, books, pictures, brass, small items of furniture, pottery and more. Admission is £1 children free. Opens at 10am4pm. St Pauls Church, St Pauls Square, MK40 1SQ 26-Nov Bushy Antique & Collectables Fair 36 stalls. Doors open 9.30am4pm. Bushy Golf & Country Club, High Street, Bushy, WD23 1TT

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Cambridge

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CAMBRIDGE

CAMBRIDGESHIRE

THE CHRISTMAS SCENE IN

Written by Tracey Dean (www.traceydean.co.uk)

Have a merry Christmas with our guide to the best Christmas events in Cambridge: Attend the Christmas Light Switch on: 19 November Grand Arcade St Andrew’s St, Cambridge CB2 3BJ Join the excitement at the Grand Arcade for the city’s annual Christmas Light Switch-On event. The shopping centre will shine and sparkle with its brand new decorations with a host of choirs singing your favorite Christmas carols. The event begins at noon with a swing set from from Cambridge University’s 20-piece student big band, Fitz Swing ahead of their appearance at the upcoming Cambridge Jazz Festival. The day sees plenty of festive entertainment including choirs and Cambridge’s best loved busker, Tom Korni – aka ‘The One-Boy Band’. After the Big Switch-On at 5.15pm, Souls Café Gospel Choir will be rounding off the evening nicely with their uplifting send-off. The Grand Arcade, Lion Yard and The Grafton will additionally be hosting individual activities. www.cambridgebid.co.uk Visit Father Christmas at Scotsdale Garden Centre – From mid-November 2017 Scotsdale Garden Centre, 120 Cambridge Road, Cambridge, CB22 5JT Step into a snowy winter wonderland for a magical experience meeting Father Christmas and his elves. It’s also the ideal location to purchase your Christmas tree and this year their Christmas department has its biggest and best selection of Christmas decorations to date! www.scotsdalegardencentre.digitickets.co.uk/tickets Watch Jack and the Beanstalk: 30 November 2017 – 5 January 2018 Cambridge Arts Theatre, 6 St Edward’s Passage, CB2 3PJ Starring singer Tony Christie and actor Stephen Beckett (Coronation Street and The Bill) this traditional Jack and the Beanstalk family pantomime

RMG photography

sees Jack tricked into selling the family cow in exchange for a handful of magical beans which soon turn into a giant beanstalk! www.cambridgeartstheatre.com/whats-on/jack-and-the-beanstalk Make a Christmas Wreath: Friday 1 December 2017 Cambridge Botanic Gardens, 1 Brookside, CB2 1JE Craft lovers will love creating a traditional Christmas wreath at this workshop taught by an award-winning florist. Get creative with a range of foliage, fresh fruit and sparkle to dress your door for the Christmas season. www.cambridgelivetrust.co.uk Go to a Brass Band Concert: Sunday 10 December West Road Concert Hall, 11 West Road, CB3 9DP This festive family concert stars Prime Brass, a Cambridge based brass ensemble alongside Junior Prime Brass and three children’s choirs. Enjoy toe tapping songs from rock to jazz and plenty of traditional Christmas carols! adcticketing.com/christmascracker

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Shop the Indie way in CAMBRIDGE Written by Siobhan Foskett @ siobhanfoskett

Cambridge is famously known for its punting along the River Cam and beautiful architecture, however it is now very much up and coming for its independent businesses popping up all over the city and online. So this Christmas try something a little different… As well as shopping in the usual high street stores, take a stroll through the streets of Cambridge and shop local. I took to the cobbled streets of the city to bring you a round up of the local businesses you can expect to find. Whether you are shopping for the little ones to your grandparents, there is something for everyone in Cambridge. For the fashionista in your life… Lilac Rose | 71 Bridge Street, Cambridge CB2 1UR Lilac Rose has a quirky feel with its selection of unusual fabrics and designs to trendy fashions and accessories. If you have someone in your life who loves playing around with fashion, then Lilac Rose is the perfect place to visit. For the kiddies… Poco Kids | 18 King Street, Cambridge CB1 1LN If you are looking for something different for your children to wear then Poco Kids is the place to go. All items that are sold in the shop are hand selected by the owners from carefully selected suppliers so you know you will get something a little unusual and fashion forward for the children. For the jewellery lover… Avalon Jewellery | 4 Christchurch Street, CB1 1HT Avalon Jewellery use a stunning mixture of glass, enamel, silver and gold which are handcrafted to create some stunning pieces of jewellery. So whether you are looking for a piece of classic elegance or something a little more modern, you are likely to find it at Avalon.

RMG photography

Little Gems Various Cambridge fairs or www.etsy.com/uk/shop/LittleGemsbyMel If you are looking for something a little more boho chic, then Little Gems would be the place to visit. The pieces are a gorgeous mix of beading, weaving and macrame and together create everyday wearable jewellery. Little Gems are also able to customise orders so you can create your own little gem of a gift! Sellis of Cambridge | All Saints Craft Market Each piece of jewellery is made in a local Cambridge workshop using freshwater Pearls, semi precious stones and sterling silver. When all these come together, they produce a wonderfully elegant piece of jewellery, be that anything from a bangle to a ring. Cambridge Craft Market | All Saints Garden, Trinity Street, Cambridge CB2 1TQ Every Saturday, you can have a browse through All Saints Garden admiring the wares all handmade by the owners of the stalls. You will find a range of ceramics, jewellery and leather products.

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Gifts up to 75% off RRP OPEN WEEKDAYS TO 9pm 15th Nov - 22nd Dec Free Parking after 6pm

Full list of winter events: springfieldsshopping.co.uk/events Where Style Is Always In Season A16 SPALDING


Seasonal Spirit in

SPALDING Situated on the River Welland, the Georgian market town of Spalding offers much for the Christmas visitor. If you fancy a change of scenery for your Christmas shopping, head to South Lincolnshire this month. A bustling Georgian market town set around the picturesque River Welland, Spalding is known for its acres of sky and glorious sunsets. Read our guide to discovering Spalding this winter… Shopping and markets You’ll find all your Christmas shopping needs in the town. Boasting over 270 shops and businesses, there is an ideal mix of independent and ma jor national outlets in Spalding, while the town also has a thriving café culture offering a European atmosphere. Twice a week stalls fill the Market Place in the centre of town. This traditional market takes place every Tuesday and Saturday. The stallholders sell a vast range of goods – indeed everything from fresh produce to electrical items, mobile phone accessories, jewellery, flowers, fabrics, toys, books and more. Springfields Outlet Shopping & Festival Gardens is only one mile away from Spalding Town Centre. This shopping facility consists of more than 50 outlet stores selling famous named brands in fashion and homeware, usually at great discounts

all year round. Visit this month for the 14th Action Medical Research Christmas Gift Fair on 6 November and Toy Collectors Fair on 19 November, both at Springfields Events Centre. Things to see and do Once you’re all shopped out, spend the rest of your day exploring the local sites and attractions. Overlooking the River Welland stands the medieval Ayscoughfee Hall. Situated in five acres of beautiful walled gardens, the Hall is home to a museum featuring exhibitions and displays, a children’s play area and café. It hosts regular theatre performances, craft sessions and art exhibitions throughout the year so check ahead of your visit to see what’s on. On the entertainment side of things is South Holland Centre. The lively Arts Centre which houses the district’s only cinema and mixes its film diary with an impressive programme of live shows - music, comedy and more. Stop by on 16 November for a crafty afternoon making personalized cards, gift wraps and tags using a variety of printing techniques. Throughout the year Spalding is host to various festivals and events, including traditional and farmers’ markets. On Sunday 27 November, the town will be transformed into a winter wonderland for its annual Christmas market in the town centre, from 10am-4pm. www.spaldingchristmasmarket.co.uk

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REGISTER NOW FOR THE PETERBOROUGH BISCUIT 7th February 2018 at the East of England Arena and Events Centre

T

he Peterborough Biscuit is a business event in Peterborough that showcases the excellent business community that operates within a 40 mile radius of the city. With the success of our inaugural event The Peterborough Biscuit is back for another great serving. This is the largest business event in Peterborough and East Anglia, exhibiting the best of Peterborough’s and East Anglia’s business and all being hosted at the East of England Arena and Events Centre.

THE PETERBOROUGH BISCUIT BUSINESS EVENT HAS THREE MAIN AIMS; • To get as many different types of business from Peterborough in one place for one day so that they can showcase their high standards and diversity. • To raise awareness and promote local business products and services • To improve local business knowledge by providing seminars from local Peterborough Business Champions who are leading, growing and innovating in real time and doing it now.

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What’s on in Cambridgeshire THEATRE, FILM AND SHOWS 6-11 Nov Driving Miss Daisy When elderly widow Daisy Werthan crashes her car one day in 1948, her son hires her a chauffeur, an African-American named Hoke Colburn. Daisy and Hoke’s relationship gets off to a rocky start, but as times change across a 25-year backdrop of prejudice, inequality and civil unrest, a profound and life-altering friendship blossoms in this acclaimed comedy drama. Cambridge Arts Theatre, St Edward’s Passage, Cambridge, CB2 3PJ. 01223 503333 www.cambridgeartstheatre.com 7-11 Nov Fences ‘Fences’ centers on the Maxons, an African-American family living in Pittsburgh in 1957. Corpus Playroom, 10 St Edward’s Passage, Cambridge, CB2 3PJ. 01223 300085. www.corpusplayroom. com 8-Nov Mark Thomas Mark Thomas sets out to discover what the future has in store for us by collecting and examining his own predictions and those of his audiences before gambling on their outcome. The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge, CB1 7GX, 01223 511511 www.junction.co.uk 9-Nov Lee Nelson You’ve seen him sneaking into places he shouldn’t be, now come and see him where he most definitely should be: live on stage with his sensational Serious Joker Tour. The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge, CB1 7GX. 01223 511511 www.junction.co.uk 9-10 Nov Ross and Rachel ‘Ross & Rachel’ tells the mind-bending, heart-breaking story of what happens when a couple that was always meant to be together, gets together. And stays together. Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF. 01733 207239. www.vivacity-peterborough.com 12-Nov Tidy Up This show is a witty and uplifting journey discovering if chaos and order can ever live side-by-

side… with plenty of surprises, ‘Tidy Up’ is an unforgettable party! The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge, CB1 7GX. 01223 511511 www.junction.co.uk 12-Nov David Starkey: Henry VIII For one night only, David Starkey draws on his extraordinary knowledge of Henry’s reign to examine his tumultuous personal life, which pitted religion against politics as brutally as our own age of Isis, offering so many parallels with the Brexit situation we find ourselves in today. Cambridge Arts Theatre, St Edward’s Passage, Cambridge, CB2 3PJ 01223 503333 www.cambridgeartstheatre.com 12-Nov Whitney - Queen of The Night This award-winning production features a sensational line-up of musicians and artistes, and together with a powerhouse and breath-taking performance in the spirit of Whitney, deliver a show that exceeds expectation on every level. The Cresset, Bretton Centre, Peterborough, PE3 8DX. 01733 265705 www.cresset.co.uk 13-15 Nov Private Lives ‘In Private Lives’, strong passions and stronger personalities set the stage for a classic battle of the sexes. Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF. 01733 207239 www.vivacity-peterborough.com 14-18 Nov The Memory of Water A vivacious, feisty comedy about three sisters processing the death of their mother. On the eve of their mother’s funeral, Theresa, Mary and Catherine come together to remember and misremember their childhood. Corpus Playroom, 10 St Edward’s Passage, Cambridge, CB2 3PJ 01223 300085. www.corpusplayroom.com 14-18 Nov Around the World in 80 Days The mysterious and fabulously wealthy Phileas Fogg wagers his life’s fortune that he can circumnavigate the globe in just 80 days. Cambridge Arts Theatre, St Edward’s Passage, Cam-

bridge, CB2 3PJ. 01223 503333 www.cambridgeartstheatre.com 15-18 Nov The Gruffalo’s Child Tall Stories returns this autumn with Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s award-winning sequel, brought to life in this magical, musical adaptation. Cambridge Arts Theatre, St Edward’s Passage, Cambridge, CB2 3PJ. 01223 503333 www.cambridgeartstheatre.com 15-18 Nov Rabbit It’s Bella’s 29th birthday. A group of her friends gather to celebrate, but tension quickly rises as the group discusses work, relationships, and sex. ADC Theatre, Park Street, Cambridge, CB5 8AS. 01223 359547. www.adctheatre.com 17-Nov Jayde Adams Jayde’s show was nominated for Best Newcomer at the 2016 Edinburgh Comedy Awards. She also won the Funny Women Award in 2014. Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF 01733 207239 www.vivacity-peterborough.com 18-Nov Gok Wan: Naked and Baring All From his humble beginnings on a Leicester council estate, to becoming one of the country’s most recognised faces. Gok candidly unravels his life to reveal everything he has not yet dared to bare. Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF 01733 207239 www.vivacity-peterborough.com 21-Nov Twist In a radical reimagining of Charles Dickens’ classic novel, we follow one refugee’s journey, buffeted between borders and bad company. Mumford Theatre East Road, Cambridge, CB1 1PT 0845 196 2320. www.anglia.ac.uk 21-25 Nov People, Places and Things Emma was having the time of her life. Now she’s in rehab. Her first step is to admit that she has a problem. But the problem isn’t with Emma, it’s with everything else. She needs to tell the truth. But she’s smart enough to know

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Are you interested in taking part in a clinical trial? Are you healthy and aged between 18-65 years? Are you a non-smoker? Are you available for a 17 night residential stay in our clinical unit in Cambridge (plus two short visits)? We are currently recruiting for a Clinical Trial with dates running from December 2017 to April 2018. If this could be you and you are interested in taking part in a clinical trial, please call 0800 32 84195. In return for participating in the study you will be compensated for your time and inconvenience, along with any reasonable travel expenses. Clinical.trials@gsk.com www.volunteers.gsk.co.uk 01223 296001

GSK, Clinical Unit Cambridge, Addenbrooke's Centre for Clinical Investigation Box 128, Hills Road, Cambridge, CB2 0GG 24JUL2017V1

COASTLINES

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that there’s no such thing. When intoxication feels like the only way to survive, how can she ever sober up? Cambridge Arts Theatre, St Edward’s Passage, Cambridge, CB2 3PJ. 01223 503333 www.cambridgeartstheatre.com 22-Nov Mr Darcy Loses the Plot LipService explore the world of women writers, squeezing in their writing amongst the domestic hustle and bustle of taking tea, choosing chintz and the odd attack of the vapours.. Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF 01733 207239 www.vivacity-peterborough.com 23-25 Nov Sherlock Bungalow and the Diabolical Treasure A fast-paced, gag-filled, absurd parody of Holmes and Watson tales. ADC Theatre, Park Street, Cambridge, CB5 8AS. 01223 359547. www.adctheatre.com 23-Nov Jackson - Live In Concert ‘Jackson Live in Concert’ sees long-time fan and hugely talented Ben recreate the Michael Jackson experience with his stunning rendition of all his favourite songs. Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF. 01733 207239 www.vivacity-peterborough.com 24-Nov Sing-a-Long-a Rocky Horror The world-famous sing-a-long-a prop bag brimming with surprises! Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF 01733 207239 www.vivacity-peterborough.com 27-29 Nov The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde Gripping, stylish and thought-provoking, this is unmissable theatre. Go on...treat your dark side! Mumford Theatre, East Road, Cambridge, CB1 1PT. 0845 196 2320. www.anglia.ac.uk 29-Nov Paul Chowdhry Paul Chowdhry brings his highly anticipated new stand-up show to venues nationwide. The Cresset, Bretton Centre, Peterborough, PE3 8DX. 01733 265705 www.cresset.co.uk 30 Nov - 7 Jan 2018 Jack and the Beanstalk Featuring all your favourite pantomime characters and Cambridge Arts Theatre trademark blend of songs, laughter, joy and magic, make it a Christmas to remember with a visit to the home of family entertainment. Cambridge Arts Theatre, St Edward’s Passage, Cambridge, CB2 3PJ. 01223 503333

www.cambridgeartstheatre.com MUSIC 11-Nov Pearl Jamm (UK’s Premiere Pearl Jam Tribute) The alt rock band from Norfolk performs in support of its fourth album, ‘All These Countless Nights’. The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge, CB1 7GX 12-Nov Mugenkyo Taiko Drummers Experience the power of thundering rhythms on huge taiko drums, mysterious masked choreography, synchronisation timed to perfection, post-apocalyptic martial imagery & infectious humour - all in a spellbinding display of sheer energy. Key Theatre, Embankment Road Peterborough, PE1 1EF. www.vivacity-peterborough.com 23-Nov Lucy Rose Led by Shaun Ryder, the Salford collective, who formed in 1980, perform their hits from across the decades to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the release of their debut LP. Cambridge Corn Exchange, Wheeler Street, Cambridge, CB2 3QB. 01223 357851. www.lucyrosemusic.com ARTS & EXHIBITIONS 4-26 Nov Winter Show Winter Show featuring work by Lindsay McDonagh, Alice Heaton, Denise Heywood, Keith Menear, Chrissy Norman and more... Cambridge Contemporary Art, 6 Trinity St, Cambridge, CB2 1SU. 01223 324222. www.cambridgegallery.co.uk 4-5 Nov Art Unequalled The event promises to bring together a fabulous collection of the highest quality artists and craftsmen from across the country for you to meet. Several artists will be demonstrating their craft during the weekend and all artists will be on their stand and happy to discuss their work with you. The Maltings, Ely www.artunequalled.co.uk 7-19 Nov Stuart Green: ‘Sense of Place’ A welcome return to the gallery for the talented local artist Stuart Green. Featuring exciting new work with colourful abstracted landscapes and much more. Babylon Gallery, Waterside, Ely CB7 4AU. 01353 616991 www.babylonarts.org.uk 8-23 Nov Christmas Cracker Picture, sculpture, hand made original print, jewellery and craftwork. Byard Art, 14 King’s Parade, Cambridge, CB2 1SJ. 01223 464646. www.byardart.co.uk

14 Nov - 14 Jan 2018 Hugo Dalton: the revival lightdrawings The artist Hugo Dalton will be projecting his dramatic lightdrawings onto sculptures in the Greece and Rome Gallery. His works will interact with the architecture of the surrounding gallery to create a series of immersive installations. The Fitzwilliam Museum, Trumpington Street, Cambridge, CB2 1RB 01223 332900. www.fitzmuseum.cam.ac.uk SPECIAL EVENTS 9-Nov The Botanic Garden in Winter Taking you for a tour of the Garden, learn about the horticultural work happening at this time of year, as well as explaining the current ongoing works and projects. Cambridge University Botanic Garden 11-26 Nov Cambridge Jazz Festival From magical storytelling, designing record sleeves and live music with an array of jazz, pop, soul, and Disney tunes, to a range of workshops for those budding Charles Mingus’ or Ella Fitzgeralds and the best of UK hip hop & grime inspired jazz for the teenagers. There is something for all ages. Various Venues, Cambridge 17-18 Nov Ely Cathedral Christmas Gift & Food Fair This event, now in its 6th year, is widely acknowledged as one of East Anglia’s exceptional Christmas shopping experiences. Ely Cathedral, Chapter House, The College, Ely CB7 4DL www.elycathedral.org 24-Nov Pizza & Prosecco Festival Let’s face it, Pizza & Prosecco are probably the two best things in the world, so what could be better than bringing the two together for a festival based around the ultimate food and drink duo. Get a slice of the action from an array of pizza pop ups and prosecco bars. The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge, CB1 7GX 01223 511511. www.junction.co.uk AUCTIONS & ANTIQUES 4-5 Nov Wood Green Antiques, Collectors & Vintage Weekend With up to 150 stalls in the Arena & Annexe, there will be the usual mix of Field Dog Fairs quality stallholders selling a wide range of items to suit all tastes and pockets. From Regency to Retro and Victorian to Vintage. Open 9.30am-4pm. £3 Entry. Wood Green Animal Shelter, Kings Bush Farm, Godmanchester, PE29 2NH www.fielddogfairs.com

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Whether you’re local or are looking to enjoy the festive atmosphere of a historic market town, Saffron Walden has plenty to offer. We’ve rounded up everything to look forward to in the lead up to Christmas… The Switch On, 1 December Saffron Walden welcomes Christmas in style this season with the annual Christmas light switch on scheduled for Friday 1 December at 6pm. There’ll also be the chance to grab some Christmas presents with late night shopping and entertainment for the whole family with carol singing and of course a visit by Father Christmas. The seasonal market will take place all day. Christmas & Crafts at Audley End House Christmas is a time to get crafting! Head over to Audley End House from 7-8 December for their wreath making course. Using a range of materials sourced from the estate, the team will show you how to make a beautiful wreath. Lunch and all materials are included for £55 per person. There’s plenty of other things going on at Audley End House this Christmas from carol concerts on 5 December and ‘An Audience with Father Christmas’ every weekend from 25 November until 16/17 December. The fun continues even after we’re stuffed from our Christmas dinner with a Festive Falconry Display from 27-29 December. More details at www.english-heritage.org.uk Christmas Shopping One of the best things about Saffron Walden is its stores; fashion boutiques, homewares, a chocolate shop and jewellery and trinkets aplenty – there’s hundreds of Christmas shopping opportunities. If you are looking for gifts for friends and family, why not head on down to the Christmas Gift Fair taking place in the Town Hall from the 2 – 3 December open from 9am – 8.30pm. Don’t forget to support your local food producers during the festive season,

especially as Saffron Walden is surrounded by them. Traders recently came together in an initiative to help promote the town and its market. From Coles Christmas puddings to Salix Farm’s Free Range Turkeys, there’s no need to pop to the supermarket this year. Enjoy a locally produced Christmas dinner. The Snowman at Saffron Hall, 10 December Walk in a winter wonderland with this beautiful performance of The Snowman. The seasonal screening is accompanied live by the Sinfonia and is an ideal festive treat for children of all ages. Tickets priced from £15 - £25. More details at saffronhall.com Audley End Miniature Railway, 25 November – 24 December If you’ve not had a chance to visit Audley End Miniature Railway during the festive season before, then make sure you visit this year for a magical family day out. Take the Santa Express into the woods to visit Father Christmas and his elves in their woodland grotto. This event is hugely popular so book your tickets now! www.audley-end-railway.co.uk

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What’s on in Essex THEATRE, FILM AND SHOWS 31 Oct - 5 Nov The House Of Dracula by Martin Downing This Comedy Horror finds the Baron, Baroness and their repulsive retainers, Igor and Frau Lurker, going to stay at a macabre Transylvania fortress. Excitement turns to terror when they are greeted by more than a few of their mortal (and immortal) enemies. The Old Court Theatre, Springfield Road, Chelmsford. 01245 606505 www.chelmsford.gov.uk 7-11 Nov Our House A story of different life choices and consequences, ‘Our House’ is that rare thing of being both moral and fun. Civic Theatre, Duke Street, Chelmsford, CM1 1JG. 01245 606505 www.chelmsford.gov.uk 8-11 Nov Gypsy One of the greatest musicals of all time, ‘Gypsy’ is based on the true life memoirs of legendary burlesque entertainer, Gypsy Rose Lee, and celebrates both sides of the sparkling, yet shadowy world of show business. Palace Theatre, 430 London Road, Westcliff-on-Sea, SS0 9LA. 01702 351135 www.southendtheatres.org.uk 8-Nov Purple Rain This full 8 piece live band delivers a non-stop, hit packed show spanning more than two hours! Complete with backing singer, horn section, keys and of course Jimi Love as the unsurpassed Prince.. Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea SS0 7RA. 01702 351135 www.southendtheatres.org.uk 9-11 Nov Bin Laden: The One Man Show Rooted in detailed research and achieving a genuine representation of the events which constituted his life, the critically acclaimed ‘Bin Laden: The One Man Show’ tells the story of Osama Bin Laden from his student days up until 9/11. Mercury Theatre, Balkerne Gate, Colchester, CO1 1PT, 01206 573948. www.mercurytheatre.co.uk

9-Nov The Rat Pack Swinging Christmas Show with Special Guest Kenny Lynch The Rat Pack is Back is Britain’s longest running tribute to Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin and Sammy Davis Jnr. Princes Theatre, Station Road, Clacton-on-Sea CO15 1SE 01255 686633 www.tendringdc.gov.uk › Leisure › Princes Theatre 10-Nov Nathan Carter and His Band - The Wanna Dance Tour As one of Ireland’s biggest live music acts, Nathan is developing into a household name. The Harlow Playhouse, Playhouse Square, Harlow, CM20 1LS 01279 431945. www.playhouseharlow.com 10-Nov Mr Darcy Loses the Plot Jane Austen is dreaming up Darcy, a proud, lip-curling handsome creation in very tight pants. But then a door squeaks, a visitor approaches and Jane hastily hides her work. Mr Darcy is left dangling. Left to his own devises he embroiders his own storyline while his creator stitches her quilt. Cramphorn Duke Street, Chelmsford, CM1 1JG. 01245 606505 www.chelmsford.gov.uk 11-12 Nov Puss in Boots Would you trust a talking cat? You never know, he might turn you from a pauper to a prince just like the hero of this story, brought to vivid life on our incredible sloping stage by Patrick Lynch from Cbeebies. Palace Theatre, 430 London Road, Westcliff-on-Sea, SS0 9LA 01702 351135. www.southendtheatres.org.uk 12-Nov Last Night of the Autumn Proms Uplifting classics crowned with a jubilant Proms finale. Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS0 7RA. 01702 351135. www.southendtheatres.org.uk 12-Nov Lipstick on Your Collar Get your dancing shoes at the ready, grab yourself a milkshake and relax - you are in for an evening of back to back hits from the 1950s and 60s!

Civic Theatre, Duke Street, Chelmsford, CM1 1JG. 01245 606505. www.chelmsford.gov.uk 13-Nov From Tipperary to Flanders Fields A warm, funny and deeply poignant response to the First World War featuring songs, poetry, readings and drama. Sing-along with tunes ranging from the English composer Henry Purcell via Victorian Music Hall favourites to the American Irving Berlin. Queen’s Theatre, Billet Lane, Hornchurch, RM11 1QT. 01708 443333 www.queens-theatre.co.uk 14-18 Nov A Christmas Carol This adaptation is faithful to the novel, but with the addition of storytellers who bring jokes and lightness to this iconic story. Palace Theatre, 430 London Road, Westcliff-on-Sea, SS0 9LA 01702 351135. www.southendtheatres.org.uk 15-19 Nov Nativity! The Musical Feel–good, funny and full of yuletide joy, Nativity! The musical features all of the favourite sing-a-long hits from the films including Sparkle and Shine, Nazareth, One Night One Moment, She’s the Brightest Star and a whole host of new songs filled with the spirit of Christmas! Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS0 7RA. 01702 351135 www.southendtheatres.org.uk 19-Nov Jimmy Carr: The Best of, Ultimate Gold, Greatest Hits Tour A man who has devoted his life to crafting perfect jokes and has left a trail of laughter in his wake, Jimmy Carr’s new tour will distil everything we love to laugh at and be shocked by, into one incredible, unparalleled night of entertainment. Princes Theatre, Station Road, Clacton-on-Sea, CO15 1SE. 01255 686633 www.tendringdc.gov.uk › Leisure › Princes Theatre 21-Nov A Night of Dirty Dancing Celebrate the music of one of the greatest movie soundtracks of all time. Reminisce over tunes including She’s Like The Wind,

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For fishing holidays in Essex that will leave you hooked, CHOOSE WALDEGRAVES HOLIDAY PARK! well-stocked fishing lakes FCarp,our are brimming with top quality Bream, Tench, Roach, Rudd,

Perch and Gudegeon which are guaranteed to meet the expectations of the keenest angler. Managed by permanent fishing wardens, the fish and their environments are maintained to the highest standard. Facilities are suitable for disabled anglers with parking close to the lakes. The park also offers sea fishing from their private beach or if you would like to venture further out onto the water, you can do so with the on-site boat launching facility. Waldegraves is a great mixture of holiday homes and touring areas for motorhomes, caravans and tents.

A wide selection of self-catering luxury holiday homes available and there’s a choice of electric, non-electric and hard standing pitches. The park facilities include an outdoor heated pool, restaurant, bar and shop. There’s also 4 fishing lakes, children’s play areas, pool tables, a family arcade, entertainment lounge, a private beach, a dog walking area, crazy golf, footgolf, a driving range and 18-hole pitch ‘n’ putt course.

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Big Girls Don’t Cry, Hungry Eyes and the Oscar Winning (I’ve Had) The Time of my Life. So, put down that watermelon and get your tickets to this phenomenal cult classic. Queen’s Theatre, Billet Lane, Hornchurch RM11 1QT. 01708 443333 www.queens-theatre.co.uk 22-25 Nov Murdered to Death An Amateur Production presented by Clacton Amateur Dramatic Society. West Cliff Theatre, Tower Road, Clactonon-Sea, CO15 1LE. 01255 433344. www.westcliffclacton.co.uk 22-25 Nov Singin’ in the Rain Each unforgettable scene, song, and dance is accounted for, including the show-stopping title number, guaranteed to have the audience tapping along! Palace Theatre, 430 London Road, Westcliff-on-Sea, SS0 9LA 01702 351135. www.southendtheatres.org.uk 25 Nov - 24 Jan 2018 Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs Everyone says Snow White is the most beautiful girl in the land, but when her father, the King, remarries, she must escape the clutches of the wicked new Queen! Thank goodness for her beloved nanny, Nurse Nellie, and her best friend Muddles! Mercury Theatre, Balkerne Gate, Colchester, CO1 1PT . 01206 573948. www.mercurytheatre.co.uk 26-Nov Gok Wan: Naked & Baring All Tour From his humble beginnings on a Leicester council estate, to becoming one of the country’s most recognised faces. Gok candidly unravels his life to reveal everything he has not yet dared to bare. Palace Theatre, 430 London Road, Westcliff-onSea, SS0 9LA. 01702 351135 www.southendtheatres.org.uk 29 Nov - 7 Jan 2018 Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs Snow White is turning 18 but her evil step-mother, wicked Queen Griselda has banned anybody from celebrating. Can Snow White and her pals the loveable Nurse Nelly and the Seven Dwarfs with the help of the Man in the Mirror and the evil Queen’s right hand man Chambers defeat the wicked Queen? And will Prince Henry save the day and ensure a truly happy ending? Civic Theatre, Duke Street, Chelmsford, CM1 1JG. 01245 606505 www.chelmsford.gov.uk

30 Nov - 7 Jan 2018 Beauy and the Beast Beauty and the Beast has it all – sparkling sets, colourful costumes, tunes that you all know, lots of laughter and most importantly plenty of audience participation. Queen’s Theatre, Billet Lane, Hornchurch, RM11 1QT. 01708 443333 www.queens-theatre.co.uk MUSIC 3-Nov Feeling Good: A Celebration Of The Music Of Michael Buble Country and folk from the singer-songwriter, known for the song What Colour Is The Wind. Towngate Theatre, St Martin’s Square, Basildon, SS14 1DL 18-Nov Judie Tzuke Funk and soul outfit from Southend with a hard-hitting sound and big horn section. Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS0 7RD. 020 7332 1911. www.tzuke.com

Maldon, CM9 5PJ. 01621 851669 www.haylettsgallery.com 14 Oct -19 Nov We: You, Me In a group exhibition JMC Anderson, Charlie Bryan and Laurie Taylor Straiton bring together artists who question the complexities of gender, narrative and environment in relation to the individual self. We: You, Me investigates ideas about the construction of identity in today’s society. Firstsite, Lewis Gardens, Colchester, CO1 1JH. 01206 713 700 www.firstsite.uk 25 Nov - 22 Dec If It Starts To Fall, Move Out Of The Way An exhibition by artist Finn Thompson. Gibberd Gallery, The Water Gardens, Harlow, CM20 1WG. 01279 446404 www.gibberdgallery.co.uk SPECIAL EVENTS 11-12 Nov Rapture Gaming Festival Rapture Gaming Festival 2 is coming back to Colchester. Check out the many family friendly zones from Minecraft to Rock Band, from Overwatch to Mario Kart. With so much to do for all the family its a definite! Colchester Leisure World, Cowdray Avenue, Colchester, CO1 1YH. 0845 299 6028 rapturegamingfestival.com

19-Nov The Ukulele Orchestra Of Great Britain Imagine the glittering domes of St Mark’s, Venice in the early 17th century, ringing and resounding with ma jestic sacred music. Music to ravish both heart and soul. Saffron Hall, Audley End Road, Saffron Walden, CB11 4UH. www.ukuleleorchestra.com 24-Nov Dreadzone 4, 11, 18 & 25 Nov An eclectic fusion of dub, Colchester Park Run reggae, techno, folk and rock Parkrun is not a race against from the London-based elecother runners, but a 5k timed tro-dub pioneers. Colchester run and it can really be Arts Centre, Church Street, Colwhatever you want it to be, chester, CO1 1NF, 01582 767525 whether that’s for fun or as part www.dreadzone.com of a training plan. Castle Park High Street, CO1 1TJ 23-Nov Jaws The Cambridge University 18-Nov Drawing the Garden in graduate and former corporate Winter at Beth Chatto Gardens high-flyer shares her love of soul Explore and enjoy drawing the and jazz in a warm, dynamic garden from season to season show. Cliffs Pavilion, Station with guidance from artist and Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS0 gardener Jevan Watkins Jones. 7RD. www.jawsjawsjaws.co.uk Beth Chatto Gardens, Elmstead Market, Colchester, CO7 7DB ARTS & EXHIBITIONS 01206 822007. Until 14 January 2018 www.bethchatto.co.uk/courses Life in the Ice Age Ice sheets, glaciers, and times AUCTIONS & ANTIQUES of warmer weather. Meet Stone 19-Nov Antiques fairs at age man and discover the Mountnessing Village Hall creatures that lived here during Collection of stalls. Free Parking. the last ice age over 10,000 Entry £1. Roman Road, years ago. Saffron Walden Mountnessing, CM15 0UA Museum, Museum Street, Saffron Walden, CB10 1JL. 01799 510333 21-Nov Saffron Walden Emporium www.saffronwaldenmuseum.org - Collectables, Crafts at Saffron Walden Town Hall 14 Oct - 11 Nov Richard Bawden A variety of stalls selling smallPaintings, Linocuts & Etchings. scale antiques, collectables, Accompanied with bronzes bric-a-brac and crafts. Market by Stuart Anderson Place, Saffron Walden, CB10 1HR Hayletts Gallery, 2 High Street,

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Christmas in Written by Ruby Reed @rubyslifestyle

The historic town knows how to throw a party! Bury St Edmunds creates a fantastic festive environment every year and 2017 isn’t about to disappoint. Christmas Market From Thursday 23 to Sunday 26 November the town will be transforming into a Christmas market wonderland. The popular Bury St Edmunds Christmas Fayre is a seasonal must. Every year this festive operation offers stall after stall (over 300 actually!) of seasonal treats. The Fayre attracts thousands so whichever day you choose to attend you’ll be guaranteed a great atmosphere. Think lights, trees and row upon row of stalls selling gifts, food and decorations. The Fayre is host to a wide range of entertainment including a cookery theatre. You’ll find hours are lost as you experience a little bit of everything! But that’s not a problem as food stalls and refreshments are everywhere you turn - you won’t be able to resist those temptations! The Fayre is the perfect place for a memorable outing with everybody. Entertainment that the children will love includes a magical fairground along with lots of children’s activities in the Abbey Gardens available on all three days. Best bits include Santa’s Grotto, reindeer, snow globes, puppet shows, water walkers and arts and crafts activities. Also make a visit to Moyse’s Hall Museum where there will be traditional Punch and Judy shows (free!), music and many other children’s activities. Festive Food The Fayre is ideal for a catch up with friends and to get you all into the Christmas spirit. As you wander you can sip on mulled wine to keep away the winter chill. When you’ve satisfied yourself with the festive antics or just need a brief break you’ll be spoilt for

choice when it comes to cosy pubs and restaurants in the town centre. If you want to sit down for a proper meal its important to book in advance as places get full quick. Places to dine in the town centre include the usual chains, but stop by independent cafes such as Paddy and Scott’s and Suffolk Carver for a spot of tea and cake. For lunch head to the likes of The Angel Hotel, Pea Porridge or Maison Bleue – put an extra Christmas spin on things with a festive menu when you call ahead to book! Make a weekend of it With so much going on and just too much to see, why not extend the experience and stay the night? Last month saw the launch of ‘Bury St Edmunds and Beyond’, the town’s latest tourism brand which aims to increase visitor numbers and overnight stays. Bury provides wonderful accommodation in all forms and sizes. From cosy B&Bs to easy chain hotels, there’s somewhere to rest your head after exploring. Read more about Christmas in Bury at www.eastlife.co.uk

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Christmas at St Edmundsbury Cathedral Christmas Fayre - Get into the spirit of Christmas! Come and join us at the Cathedral during the Bury Christmas Fayre and enjoy a variety of stalls raising money for the Cathedral and charity. Enjoy excellent food and drink at our Pilgrims’ Kitchen Cafe and restaurant and pick up a unique gift from our Cathedral shop. Shoppers Carols Thursday 23 November, 2pm to 2.30pm - Friday 24 November, 12.30 to 1pm, 2.30-3pm Saturday 25 November, 12.30 to 1pm, 2.30-3pm - Sunday 26 November, 1 to 1.30pm All welcome, no booking required. - FREE Donations welcome.

Handel’s Messiah Saturday 9 December at 7pm (doors open at 6.15pm) Booking: www.whatsonwestsuffolk.co.uk/ whats-on/event/3778/messiah The Apex 01284 758000

Special services These are in addition to the regular pattern of worship throughout the year.

EACH Carol Concert Thursday 23 November from 6pm to 7.30pm - No booking required

Mayor’s Carol Service Thursday 7 December at 7pm

Alzheimer’s Carol by Candlelight Wednesday 13 December at 7pm (doors open at 6.30pm) Tickets required. Booking through: www.alzheimers.org.uk/carolsatchristmas or by calling 0330 333 0804.

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For more details on services and events visit our website www.stedscathedral.org

Advent Procession Sunday 3 December at 5pm.

Children’s Society Carols by Candlelight Saturday 16 December from 7pm to 8.30pm Nine Lessons and Carols Saturday 23 December at 7pm Emergency Services Carol Service Monday 11 December at 6.30pm

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Overland Park, Great Whelnetham, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk IP30 0UL

42 Halstead Road, Earls Colne, Colchester, Essex CO6 2NL

Visit our NEW website for the complete collection

www.colnestoves.com


Ickworth House

When you start new traditions, it helps us keep our past alive. When you visit, donate, volunteer or join the National Trust, your support helps us to look after special places for ever, for everyone.

nationaltrust.org.uk/ickworth

© National Trust 2017. The National Trust is an independent registered charity, number 205846. Photography © National Trust Images.

Western Way. Bury St Edmunds IP33 3SP

Tel: 01284 220102

www.planetlaser.co.uk

Gift vouchers on sale for Teddy mountain and Planet Laser. Ideal Christmas presents. CAFÉ LUNAR

with fully licensed bar Catering for Birthday parties and other events

LASER ARENA

Multi level over 6000 sq ft

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Great fun for all the family

NOW OPEN TEDDY MOUNTAIN CREATE YOUR OWN BEAR

AMUSEMENT ARCADE Great fun for all the family

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MONDAY: CLOSED (OPEN FROM 10AM ON SCHOOL & BANK BANK HOLIDAYS) NOW OPEN: TUESDAY - FRIDAY: 9.30AM - 9PM SAT: 9.30AM - 9PM SUN: 9.30AM - 6PM


2017 10 East Life Boxing Day Lunch QP.qxp_107mm h x 71m

Boxing Day Lunch

at Ufford Park Woodbridge from 12 noon

Busy on Christmas Day? Why not get the family together for Boxing Day instead? Lunch will be served from 12 noon, but you are welcome to meet for a pre-lunch drink in The Deben Bar.

£29.95 per adult

£17 per child (5 -12 years old)

Children under 5 years old FREE

t 0844 4771835 (local rate) w www.uffordpark.co.uk Yarmouth Road|Woodbridge|Suffolk|IP12 1QW

WILLS & PROBATE


WINTER

WONDERLAND IN

WOODBRIDGE Carols, Christmas shopping and of course a visit from Santa, the pretty Suffolk market town of Woodbridge is celebrating Christmas in style... With its cobbled streets, colourful houses and the River Debden, Woodbridge is winter postcard perfection. Add in a thriving community spirit and longstanding Christmas fair and you have something reminiscent of a Christmas fairy tale. This year the festivities begin on 3 December, when the mammoth Christmas Fair returns. Running for over 20 years, it is held on the first Sunday of December and kicks off the town’s Christmas shopping season. The streets will be lined with stalls, over 100 in fact, where local tradesmen and businesses will be selling everything you could possibly need to complete your shopping list. Starting from the Thoroughfare by the Red Lion pub to the Royal Mail offices in Cumberland Street, many of the town’s businesses will be holding pop up stalls outside their stores. The atmosphere is buzzing as the sights, sounds and smells of Christmas fill the air.

Lavenham Guildhall

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TUTTI JEWELLERY PERUZZI SUZY D Holly Blue September 2017 (87x126).qxp_Layout 1 09/08/2017 14:49 Page 2

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Situated at end of the Situated thethe end of the 89/91atThoroughfare Thoroughfare, over Thoroughfare, justjust over Woodbridge traffic lights. thethe traffic lights.

72 Thoroughfare Woodbridge Suffolk IP12 1AL 01394 382300 sue@hollyblueboutique.com

Suffolk IP12 1AW 01394 386686 www.laurajaneboutique.co.uk Situated at the end of the Thoroughfare, just over the traffic lights.

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“LIFE’S TOO SHORT TO WEAR BORING CLOTHES”

Saint Tropez Ichi Cotton Brothers Vera Moda Culture Tamaris and more

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Please join us on 30th Nov 10 - 9pm for a scandinavian Christmas day. 10% on the day 17 Church Street, Woodbridge, Suffolk, IP12 1DS www.vanil.co.uk | 07702 877081 | mandy@vanil.co.uk Open Tuesday –Saturday, 10.30am –5.30pm


N

Woodbridge Christmas Fair

Carols on the Market Hill

Visitors hustle together to browse goods such as handmade decorations, crafts, accessories, clothing and local arts to name a few, while sipping on a cup of steaming mulled wine and tucking into local foodie treats. It’s an event not to be missed so put the date in your diary now!

Earlier this year a new shopping initiative was launched, by a band of independent businesses located at the end of The Thoroughfare near Elmhurst Park. Now known as Parkside Shops, formed of 22 businesses, the stores have created an exciting and vibrant shopping destination, regularly featuring special promotions. Part of Parkside Shops are Holly Blue, Ninni Noo and Laura Jane, all of which specialise in beautiful women’s fashions. With on trend designs, classic style staples and accessories galore you may find you’ll be buying a present or two for yourself!

If you can’t make the fair, don’t worry, as Woodbridge is perhaps one of Suffolk’s best kept shopping secrets. The streets are lined with independent businesses selling beautiful fashions, homewares and crafts. It’s a haven for finding special Christmas presents you might not be able to find anywhere else. For example, The Tannery, which opened in 2016 offers an amazing selection of leather bags and accessories crafted mainly in Italy. The Tannery’s own brand products are made in Italian factories with a provenance that often stretches back through generations of craftsmen. It also features a huge selection of brands and there are thousands of products to choose from whether you want a handbag, briefcase, satchel bag, piece of luggage, pair of shoes or small leather accessory, to suit your needs or to give pleasure as the perfect gift!

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BO OK NO W!

CHRISTMAS MASQUERADE Friday 1st December with a 5 course meal and music from Georgia Falls for £49.95 pp

BOOK NOW! Call us 01986 784347

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.

CHRISTMAS PARTY NIGHTS Saturday 9th December Saturday 16th December SOLD OUT

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with a 4 course meal and Disco for £42.50 pp 3a & 3b Wilfred Bridge Rd, Melton, Woodbridge IP12 1RB visit the website www.highlodge.co.uk email info@highlodge.co.uk tel 01986 784347 find us just off the A12 near Southwold Suffolk IP17 3QT

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Spa Days and Overnight packages maintenance with Spa Days and expert therapists Spa Days and Full menu of beauty with The Crown Hotel, expert therapists Overnight packages Overnight packages maintenance with and Spa Days with The Crown Hotel, with The Days Crown Hotel, Woodbridge Spa and expert therapists Overnight packages

Woodbridge Woodbridge Overnight packages with The Crown Hotel, Spawith Days and The Crown Hotel, Wedding & Wedding & Woodbridge Wedding & Overnight packages Woodbridge Baby Showers BabyHotel, Showers with The Crown Baby Showers Wedding & Wedding & Woodbridge Baby Showers Baby Showers Wedding & Bathsheba,24 24Church ChurchSt, St,Woodbridge WoodbridgeIP12 IP121DH 1DH Baby Bathsheba, Showers

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01394 www.bathshebaspa.co.uk info@bathshebaspa.co.uk info@bathshebaspa.co.uk 01394388813 388813 www.bathshebaspa.co.uk Bathsheba, 24 Church St, Woodbridge IP12 1DH Bathsheba, 24 Church St, Woodbridge IP1224 1DHChurch St, Woodbridge IP12 1DH Bathsheba, www.bathshebaspa.co.uk info@bathshebaspa.co.uk 01394 388813 01394 388813 www.bathshebaspa.co.uk info@bathshebaspa.co.uk www.bathshebaspa.co.uk info@bathshebaspa.co.uk 388813 Bathsheba, 24 Church01394 St, Woodbridge IP12 1DH 01394 388813 www.bathshebaspa.co.uk info@bathshebaspa.co.uk


Woodbridge Emporium 66 The Thoroughfare Woodbridge IP12 1AL www.woodbridgeemporium.co.uk

There are many other titles available in our bookshop (currently over 3000 books) and our website, plus new titles arriving every week. Whilst we stock bestsellers, children’s, young adults, local authors, holiday reads and general interest we also specialise in: Sci-fi, Fantasy, Thrillers, Mind Body & spirit, Historical Fiction and Crime. We stock distinctive ranges of - Gifts - Games - Jigsaws - Cards - Stationery Educational toys - Calendars & Diaries - Relaxation & Meditation CD’s - Christmas Gifts- Book tokens. At Woodbridge Emporium we also specialise in Loose Leaf Teas and have qualified Tea Smiths available to guide you in selecting teas from over 40 supreme quality Teas & Tisanes. We believe the nasty Tea Bag has had its day (yes, they really do contain plastics & chemicals) and are encouraging the use of Leaf Tea as a happier, healthier beverage. There are normal 2-3 special events held at our Bookshop per month as well as regular Book Clubs, Tea tasting, Workshops and Social Gatherings. Stay informed of our awesome events by signing up to receive our informative emails. / WoodbridgeEmporium

@WoodbridgeEmporium

@WoodbridgeEmpor

WINDMILLS FLORIST OF WOODBRIDGE Beautiful Bespoke Floral Designs

We deliver in Woodbridge & within a 10 mile radius

3A Cumberland Street, Woodbridge, IP12 4AH orist@yahoo.co.uk 01394 384109 windmillsfl www.windmillsflorist.co.uk


Bespoke kitchens, bedrooms, studies and custom interiors. Designed, manufactured and installed by our team of master craftsmen at our Martlesham workshops.

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7 Church Street, Woodbridge 7 Church Street, Woodbridge @ArchwayCarpets wwwarchwaycarpets.co.uk Vanil Dec14-Jan15.indd 1 @ArchwayCarpets www.archwaycarpets.co.uk 11/11/2014 p64-81 Homes[IPSW-DEC/JAN].indd 67

Slimming & Sports Products Wheat & Gluten Free Foods Vegan & Veg Ready Meals Lactose Free Foods Organic Toiletries Cultural & Eco Gifts Incense & Oracle Cards

19:56

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What’s on in Suffolk THEATRE, FILM AND SHOWS 31 Oct - 4 Nov Sister Act Filled with toe-tapping tunes like Take Me to Heaven and Fabulous, Baby! you’re sure to get your groove on! Theatre Royal, Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1QR 01284 769505. www.theatreroyal.org 6-Nov Ned Boultings: Bikeology Journalist, television presenter and best-selling author Ned Boulting is back this autumn with his acclaimed sell out ride through the world of Bikeology, featuring brand new tales from life in the cycling lane, as well as the inside scoop from his time at the 2017 Tour de France. Grand Hall, Corn Exchange King Street, Ipswich IP1 1DH apps.ipswich.gov.uk 8-Nov Wuthering Heights When Cathy’s father brings home an orphaned Heathcliff, the effect willecho for generations. Emily Bronte’s only novel is a timeless Gothic classic of passionate love, revenge and despair. Hotbuckle Theatre bring their unique magic to this powerful and emotional story. Haverhill Arts Centre, High Street, Haverhill, CB9 8AR. 01440 714140 www.haverhillartscentre.co.uk 9-11 Nov The Old Curiosity Shop Little Nell Trent lives with her devoted grandfather in his London shop, a magical place filled from wall to wall with dust-laden treasures. Theatre Royal, Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1QR. 01284 769505. www.theatreroyal.org 11-Nov Rubberring and Driftwood A theatre double bill. The Cut, New Cut, Halesworth, IP19 8BY 0300 3033211. newcut.org 11-Nov Songs of Remembrance ‘Songs of Remembrance’ is a nostalgic and humorous commemoration to music that helped ‘win the war’. Fisher Theatre, Broad Street, Bungay, NR35 1EE 01986 897130 www.fishertheatre.org 11-Nov Abba Forever ‘ABBA Forever’ are recognised as

one of the best live recreations of ABBA Live in Concert and theatre audiences worldwide have long enjoyed this superb recreation of possibly the world‘s greatest pop band. Marina Theatre, The Marina, Lowestoft, NR32 1HH. 01502 533200 www.marinatheatre.co.uk 12-Nov A Night of Dirty Dancing Experience all your favourite songs such as She’s Like The Wind, Hey Baby, Hungry Eyes & of course (I’ve Had) The Time of my Life. Theatre Royal, Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1QR. 01284 769505 www.theatreroyal.org 16-18 Nov This Changes Everything A number of young women have gone missing and Alva, Kim and Klara think they know where they have gone. They follow them to a platform out at sea where they have formed ‘The Community’, a new type of society and a better way of living… They soon find that you can take yourself out of society, but can you take society out of yourself? Theatre Royal, Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1QR. 01284 769505. www.theatreroyal.org 17-Nov One Night of Queen ‘One Night of Queen’ is a spectacular live concert, recreating the look, sound, pomp and showmanship of arguably the greatest rock band of all time. This show will ROCK you! Marina Theatre, The Marina, Lowestoft, NR32 1HH 01502 533200. www.marinatheatre.co.uk 17-Nov Ghost Stories A Warning to the Curious’ Abigail Paxton is a woman searching for a lost crown, but in the desolate town of Seaburgh, all is not as it seems. The Seagull, 19-75 Morton Road, Lowestoft, NR33 0JH. 01502 589726. www.theseagull.co.uk 20-22 Nov The Nutcracker ‘The Nutcracker’ ballet recounts the adventures of a young girl Clara the night before Christmas. When Clara falls asleep with her Nutcracker, an army of mice

attack her toys and the Nutcracker. Theatre Royal, Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1QR. 01284 769505 www.theatreroyal.org 20-Nov Jon Boden and the Remnant Kings Much of Jon’s Remnant King’s work is inspired by post-apocalyptic literature, something represented at live gigs by the on-stage use of wax cylinders providing a distinctive counter to normal amplification. Haverhill Arts Centre, High Street, Haverhill CB9 8AR. 01440 714140 www.haverhillartscentre.co.uk 22-Nov That’ll Be The Day Christmas Show The UK’s most popular Rock ‘N’ Roll variety show celebrates the festive season with all your favourite Christmas classics from the 50s, 60s & 70s, plus plenty of hilarious comedy! Marina Theatre, The Marina, Lowestoft NR32 1HH. 01502 533200 www.marinatheatre.co.uk 23-Nov Paul Chowdhry – Live Innit Paul Chowdhry brings his highly anticipated new stand-up show to the Marina Theatre. Marina Theatre, The Marina, Lowestoft NR32 1HH. 01502 533200 www.marinatheatre.co.uk 25-Nov Suddenly Last Summer In this play by Tennessee Williams, Catherine Holly is institutionalised for what is claimed to be a severe emotional disturbance resulting from her witnessing the death of her cousin, Sebastian Venable, while they were on summer holiday. Fisher Theatre, Broad Street, Bungay, NR35 1EE. 01986 897130 www.fishertheatre.org 30 Nov - 2 Dec Self Catering When a passenger plane crashes onto a remote, tropical island the only survivors are five strangers. With little hope of rescue, they must learn to build shelter, share supplies and deal with their carnal instincts. Self Catering is a dark comedy of love and survival. The Seagull, 19-75 Morton Road, Lowestoft NR33 0JH. 01502 589726

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Suffolk Carpet Weavers 1/4P Sept17_1/4 PORTRAIT GRID 27/07/2017 10:39 Page 1

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www.theseagull.co.uk 30-Nov Christmas Memories with Neil Sands It is a truly spectacular mix of over 60 of your favourite Christmas songs and carols, 40 stunning costume changes, lots of good old fashioned festive fun, and a unique atmosphere that will warm your heart on the coldest winter’s day. Marina Theatre, The Marina, Lowestoft NR32 1HH. 01502 533200 www.marinatheatre.co.uk MUSIC 9-Nov Music for the Habsburg Emperors Cambridge Renaissance Voices return to Long Melford for a grand and spectacular concert of music. Theatre Royal, Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1QR. 01284 769505. www.theatreroyal.org 11-Nov One Way Or Another – A Tribute To Blondie All of the hits, plus the new Blondie song ‘Fun’ played in this live and visual experience, getting recognition for the show from none other than Chris Stein and Tommy Kessler of Blondie. The Seagull, 19-75 Morton Road, Lowestoft, NR33 0JH. 01502 589726. www.theseagull.co.uk 16-Nov Rick Wakeman – The Piano Portraits Tour Following the sell-out success of his spring Piano Portraits UK tour, keyboard player, composer and broadcaster Rick Wakeman is announcing more dates for October and November. Marina Theatre, The Marina, Lowestoft, NR32 1HH. 01502 533200. www.marinatheatre.co.uk 17-Nov A Saucerful of Floyd ‘A Saucerful of Floyd’ return with a new, bigger and more spectacular show. With a mix of Floyd classics and rarely performed gems this is a tribute with a difference; performing the music as a four piece rock outfit with all the energy and exuberance of the band in their heyday. Don’t miss the incredible sound and spectacle. The Cut, New Cut, Halesworth, IP19 8BY 0300 3033 211. newcut.org 20-Nov Bury Concert Series: Alke Quartet Alke Quartet: They have astonishing stylistic and tonal unanimity. Theatre Royal, Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1QR. 01284 769505. www.theatreroyal.org

Sea Pictures Gallery, Well Lane, Clare, CO10 8NH 01787 279024 www.seapicturesgallery.com 8-23 Nov Nature’s Footprint Suffolk’s coast, farms, forests and rivers inspire artists Gill Bedson, Tricia Newell and John Garrett. All members of Sudbourne Printmakers, they use techniques including collagraph, drypoint, etching, lino and woodcuts to create original prints that express their inspiration. The Quay Gallery, Aldeburgh snapemaltings.co.uk/whats-on/ jacqueline-cotton 10-16 Nov Unique new art by Brian E Coetzee Brian creates watercolour paintings using hand pressing and painting technique on paper to encapsulate the Suffolk Landscape. He then has them digitally printed on silk to be used as wallhangings or wearable wraps. Both original framed art and silks will be available to view in his new exhibition. The Quay Gallery, Aldeburgh. snapemaltings.co.uk/ whats-on/jacqueline-cotton 18 Nov - 2 Jan 2018 Christmas Exhibition Dates are subject to a slight variance. Southwold Gallery, 64a High Street, Southwold IP18 6DN. 01502 723888 www.southwoldgallery.co.uk/ex hibitions 22-Nov Constructing a New Future Through Art: Radical Russia 1910-1932 The political revolution of 1917 mirrored a visual revolution. Suddenly the world turned abstract; a teacup was as meaningful as a painting and the peasant was king. In this talk, Fiona will explore the emergence of a totally new approach to art. The Cut, New Cut, Halesworth IP19 8BY. 0300 3033 211 newcut.org SPECIAL EVENTS 5-Nov Craft and Food Fair A hugely popualr fair with stalls selling foods, drinks and various crafts throughout the Complex. Market Place, Hadleigh, IP7 5DN 01473 823884 www.hadleightownhall.co.uk

12-Nov The Vet Show The Vet Show is taking place at Ipswich Veterinary Centre and offers a great opportunity for you to take a look behind the scenes at a veterinary hospital and get advice form experienced veterinary professionals. ARTS & EXHIBITIONS Town Centre, Ipswich, IP1 1DP 2 Nov - 6 Jan 2018 A Time Of Wonder II 01359 245310

www.thevetshow.co.uk 17-19 Nov Lavenham Literary Festival The fifth Lavenham Literary Festival Features Clare Mulley, Tracey Borman, Greg Votolato and many more. The Festival runs over three days. Brochures are available from Lavenham Tourist Office. Theatre Royal, Bury St Edmunds. 01284 769505 www.theatreroyal.org 18-19 Nov Woodbridge Mind Body and Spirit Festival With over 40 exhibitors, including ‘The Buddha Cave’ Meditation Healing Space, reader to the stars Melayne Stone and amazing medium Maureen Flynn, this event is set to be another great success! Woodbridge Community Hall, Station Road, IP12 4AU 07969 770741 lifearts.co.uk AUCTIONS & ANTIQUES 4-Nov Halesworth Brocante Antique & Vintage Market The Halesworth Brocante Antique & Vintage Market is held on the first Saturday of each month and will have 30 plus brocanteurs selling a wide range of goods including vintage tools, jewellery, ceramics and glassware, vintage clothes, vintage and french style homeware. 1950/60s homeware and vintage wall art and small pieces of antique furniture. Admission is free, open 9am-3p.m. The Old Print Works Halesworth, IP19 8AP 11-Nov Kesgrave (Ipswich) Militaria, Medal & Arms Fair Modern, well lit hall with 40 dealers tables. Open 10am 2pm. Entry £2.50. Kesgrave War Memorial Community Centre Kesgrave, Ipswich, IP5 1JF 26-Nov Cavendish antiques & Collectors fair A small antiques & collectors fair in the pretty Suffolk village of Cavendish, Admission 20 pence, acompanied children free. 9.30am - 4pm. Memorial Hall, Melford Road, Cavendish, CO10 8AD 26-Nov Risby Hall Antique and Collectors Fair Antique and Collectors Fair with up to 53 tables sellign, furniture, silver, tools, clocks, linen, jewellery, gardening, pictures, china and glass, Art Deco and much more. Open 9.30am till 4pm. Admission £1. Risby Village Hall, Aylmer Close, Risby Near Bury St Edmunds, IP28 6RT

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