ISSN 2044–7965
ISSUE 38 NOVEMBER 2013 PRICELESS
magazine
WEST NORFOLK | NORTH NORFOLK | COASTAL
PICTURE: DOBBIES
COVER IMAGE
The Poppy Line by Ian Ward
editorial 01553 601201
editor@klmagazine.co.uk
Eric Secker Amy Phillips Ian Ward Alex Dallas Graham Murray Michael Middleton
advertising 01553 601201 sales@klmagazine.co.uk
Laura Murray Grant Murray Nicky Secker-Bligh Vicky Corielle
contact
18 Tuesday Market Place King’s Lynn, Norfolk PE30 1JW 01553 601201 www.klmagazine.co.uk KL magazine cannot accept responsibility for unsolicited submissions, manuscripts and photographs. While every care is taken, prices and details are subject to change and KL magazine takes no responsibility for omissions or errors. We reserve the right to publish and edit any letters. All rights reserved. If you’d like to order prints of any photograph featured in KL magazine, contact us at the address below. Please note this applies only to images taken by our own photographers.
00
N
ick Elliott is used to rubbing shoulders with the rich and famous, and though our very own Eric Secker isn’t in the same league as Alice Cooper, Van Morrison or Nils Lofgren, the Norfolk-based rock photographer still enjoyed his visit to the office last month (right). You can read about Nick and see some of his amazing work on pages 90-92 of this month’s magazine. Meanwhile, as you’ll no doubt be aware, Christmas is fast approaching. That means it’s time to start thinking about all those Christmas culinary treats, time to start thinking of decorating the house, and time to book your tickets to this year’s pantomime. Luckily, all of them are featured on the following pages. As you’ll see from the feature on Church Farm Rare Breeds Centre (page 8) even the local animals are getting ready for the celebrations! Of course, as Canon Chris Ivory reminds us, November is also a time for remembering – and you’ll find his thoughts on the matter on page 98. Enjoy the magazine. KL MAGAZINE
KLmagazine November 2013
Contents 7-13
WHAT’S ON This month’s diary of forthcoming events
8-10
A VERY NATURAL NATIVITY It’s a very magical time at Stow Bardolph
NOVEMBER 2013
8
16-18 THE MAN BEHIND THE GUY Just who was Guy Fawkes? 22
THE BIG INTERVIEW With NNDC’s leader Tom FitzPatrick
25
THEN & NOW The changing face of the local area
WIN!
30-32 HARE TODAY, HARE TOMORROW... A look at the current plight of the hare 35
card A £200 gift all, for Castle M Norwich
16
See page 43
PETS Help and advice with local vet Alex Dallas
38-45 FASHION The latest looks from the local boutiques 46-48 NORFOLK’S HERO: IN NORFOLK A look at Nelson’s life in the county 50-55 FOOD AND DRINK Recipes, reviews and recommendations 58-60 THE TASTE OF LOCAL SUCCESS We meet Mark Riches of Beeston Brewery
62
62-69 THE ORIGINS OF CHRISTMAS DINNER Where all those festive treats came from 70-79 CHRISTMAS INTERIORS Tips on dressing your home for the season 82-84 EXPLORER This month, we’re visiting Holt 86-88 CHARITY A look at the valuable work of Macmillan 90-92 VISIONS OF ROCK AND ROLL The photography of Nick Elliott 94
ANDREW WILLIAMS A profile of the popular local artist
98
CROSS CURRENTS Canon Chris Ivory’s look at local life
KLmagazine November 2013
86
90 5
A majestic feast of world-class performances... T hanks to a recent investment in the latest technology, the Majestic Cinema in King’s Lynn is now screening some of the most highly-regarded and professional stage productions in the country. Instead of travelling to and from London and factoring in ticket prices that can easily exceed £100, it’s now possible to enjoy live world-class opera and ballet from Covent Garden in the comfort of the Majestic Cinema. The Live Cinema Season from London’s Royal Opera House offers a wonderful collection of five operas and five ballets – all streamed live via satellite in high definition sound and vision. “It’s a very exciting development for the cinema,” says the Majestic’s Manager Tom Cundy. “We’re not the biggest fans of opera and ballet here, but we did join the screening of Puccini’s opera Turandot in September and it was a very
The Royal Ballet’s amazing production of The Nutcracker at the Royal Opera House – you can see it live at the Majestic Cinema in King’s Lynn, screened direct from Covent Garden on December 12th
memorable experience. It’s really impressive on the big screen.” The next live screening from the Royal Opera House is Peter Wright’s production of The Nutcracker on 12th December – a classic ballet that’s ideal for Christmas. That’s followed by Richard Wagner’s epic and controversial opera Parsifal on 18th December, and the enchanting ballet Giselle on 27th January. The season then continues until June 2014. Tickets for all operas and ballets in the season are £15 each (£12.50 for concessions) and are available online, by phone or at the cinema. Truly majestic performances in a venue that genuinely lives up to its name. Don’t miss it.
MAJESTIC CINEMA Tower Street, King’s Lynn PE30 1EJ 01553 772603 www.majestic-cinema.co.uk
NOVEMBER Tues 5 – Sat 9 November GLYNDEBOURNE OPERA Humperdinck, Donizetti, Britten from one of the world’s best opera companies £6.50 - £52 Sun 10 November NORFOLK SCHOOLS PROJECT Three local schools perform opera Free Sun 10 November PAM AYRES Humour and poetry £5.50 - £21.50
Sun 17 November BRITTEN SINFONIA Britten’s Serenade for tenor, horn and strings £6.50 - £26 Tues 19 – Sat 23 November Matthew Bourne’s SWAN LAKE World-famous modern version of ballet classic £6.50 - £38.50
Matthew Bourne’s Swan Lake
BOX OFFICE: (01603) 63 00 00
Mon 25 Nov – Sat 7 Dec PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT Jason Donovan stars in feel-good musical £6.50 - £42.50
Tues 12 – Sat 16 November SLAVA’S SNOWSHOW Unmissable, moving, funny, joyous, dream-like theatre £6.50 - £28
Book online: www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk THEATR E STREET, NORWICH NR2 1RL
6
KLmagazine November 2013
November
50 YEARS AGO: On November 22nd 1963, US President John Kennedy was assassinated in Dallas. And we’re still wondering who did it.
Wednesday 20th HOLT CHRISTMAS LIGHTS – THE BIG SWITCH ON! Holt town centre (6.45pm) A town of excellence and uniqueness, Holt is at its loveliest when framed by thousands of fairytale lights – along the gables, gutters and roofs, around a myriad of enticing windows and in both the live deciduous trees and the spectacular Christmas trees. If you’ve never seen the Holt lights being switched on, make sure you don’t miss this year’s event! For more information, see www.holtchristmaslights.org
Friday 15th AUTUMN BOUNTY WORKSHOP Oxburgh Hall (10am–4pm) Join the staff at Oxburgh Hall in creating a number of edible treats from the plants growing in the Kitchen Garden. You’ll be welcomed with tea/coffee, followed by a workshop and a talk on pumpkins and how to cut them. Lunch is provided, followed by a tour of the Kitchen Garden and ending with the opportunity to visit the shop before you take home the items you’ve made. Tickets £30 (all materials provided) and booking essential. For further information and booking contact 01366 327242.
Monday 18th – Saturday 23rd DOWNHAM ART CIRCLE’S WINTER EXHIBITION Framin’Art, High Street, Downham Market Framin'Art welcomes this very popular annual event, where over 75 works by local artists will be exhibited and for sale. The gallery will be open from 9am to 5pm every day. Admission is free. Forthcoming events also include: Introduction to Felting with Sue Welfare Saturday 30th November A 3-hour wet and dry felting workshop where you’ll make a small picture and a selection of beads. All equipment is provided and no experience is necessary. Silk Painting with Julie Spriggs Thursday 12th December Julie will guide you in the making of a hand-painted silk scarf and two hand-painted silk Christmas cards. All materials will be provided. Early booking for courses is advised as places are limited. For further information, call 01366 382002, e-mail enquiries@framinart.co.uk or see us on Facebook.
Throughout December
Friday 15th – Saturday 16th CHRISTMAS GIFT & FOOD FAIR 2013 Ely Cathedral, Ely, Cambridgeshire (9.30am–4.30pm) Ely Cathedral opens its doors for an exceptional Christmas shopping experience with over 75 exhibitors located in the magnificent nave, in addition to a festive Food Hall in the 14th century Lady Chapel. Throughout the Fair there‘ll be seasonal floral presentations by the Cathedral Flower Guild and cookery demonstrations from celebrity chefs. Musical entertainment will be provided by local choirs, and refreshments and light lunches will be available on site. Tickets are only £2.50, and can be purchased online, on the door at the event itself or by contacting the Cathedral Box Office on 01353 660349. For full details, see www.elycathedral.org.
KLmagazine November 2013
BOUNTY OF THE BURNHAMS THROUGH GLASS SALT Glass Studios, Burnham Thorpe, Norfolk PE31 8HL In association with Burnham farmers and producers including Norfolk Saffron, Plumbe and Maufe Fruit Farm, Unthank Supper Club, SALT Glass Studios explores the landscape of the Burnhams and the diverse crops and food economies from saffron, barley, plums to shellfish which establish a network of recurring imagery of shared substances and memories within the region. The studios are open from Tuesday to Sunday (10am–5pm), with free glassmaking demonstrations (all ages welcome). For more details and information, see www.saltglassstudios.co.uk or call 01328 738873.
Saturday 2nd FARMERS MARKET Creake Abbey, North Creake (9.30am-1pm) More than 50 stall holders with a fantastic selection of local produce, fresh meat, seasonal ingredients and specially-prepared dishes. No wonder it’s an award-winning market! Held in two restored Norfolk barns, every event bursts with character and life. For more details, see www.creakeabbey.co.uk
7
Wednesday 6th and 20th November at 10am - Antiques, collectables, household furniture & effects. We hold regular auction sales of antiques, household furniture and effects and collectables on the 1st and 3rd Wednesday of each month. Also off site auctions of farm machinery. Wednesday 4th December at 10am - Antiques, collectables, household furniture & effects.
!"#$%&'(%) *+,-#.")/(00)) 122&)3(4&()(&)*+,-#.")) !"#$%&"'()*("+&(!$+&"'(),(-./.01.%(23)4((
567+(7+(#8.(9$+("+&(0..#(!"+#"(7+(87:(;%6##6<(=":#(.+#%'(4>43?0>(@8.( ;%6$+&:A(:86?("+&(#."%660(B7==(1.(6?.+(":(+6%0"=(9%60())"0(#6(*?0>( C%..("&07::76+(#6(;%6$+&:>( (( D+(!$+&"'(#8.(=6/"=(/867%(E+;=7"(E//.+#:(B7==(1.(;7F7+;(#B6(/6+/.%#:(7+( #8.(!"=66+A(6+.(9%60()2(+66+(#6()?0("+&(#8.(6#8.%(9%60(2?0(#6(4?0>(( 56)72#)8"$09):;#)24&#(482)&;).#;&&;<)
=-02&$92)(&)*+,-#.")) C%7&"'(23A(!"#$%&"'(2)(G(!$+&"'(22(-./.01.%((
@%"F.=(1"/H(#8%6$;8(#70.(7+(I8%7:#0"::.:(69(#8.(?":#("+&(#8.+(.J?.%7.+/.( #8.(:7;8#:A(:6$+&:("+&(:0.==:(69("(#%"&7#76+"=(@$&6%(K$=.#7&.>( (( L6%0"=("&07::76+>(( )
3)4MM(44N2,N( 4(&$;4(0&#-%&<;#.<->?;+,-#."@"(00) Contact Julia or Barry for more information. 15 Lynn Road, Downham Market Tel: 01366 387180 Web: www.barryhawkins.co.uk
12
KLmagazine November 2013
November
Friday 15th – Saturday 16th SAMPLE JEWELLERY SALE Hanse House, King’s Lynn Tim Clayton Jewellery and Ginger Rose present a selection of stunning jewellery on sale at massively discounted prices. Although the pieces comprise ex-display, end-of-line and discontinued stock, they still look fantastic and exhibit all the hallmarks of carefully designed, locally-made jewellery – with up to 70% off. An event tailor-made for some early Christmas shopping! Note: the event is open from 11am-7pm on Friday, and 10am-4pm on Saturday.
Wednesday 13th & Wednesday 20th MEDIEVAL NIGHT King’s Head Hotel Great Bircham Themed evenings at the King’s Head Hotel have become really popular – and it’s not surprising as the company is great and the food is fantastic. This month sees the hotel host two medieval-themed nights, including a 5-course meal. Join them for some banquet style dining at only £22 per person. For more details, contact the Kings Head on 01485 578265 or visit the hotel’s website at www.thekingsheadhotel.co.uk
Wednesday 6th GATINEAU CHRISTMAS COLLECTION PREVIEW Beauty Profile, Paradise Road, Downham Market (6pm) Beauty Profile presents an exclusive preview evening of the Gatineau Christmas Collection, together with some bubbly and mince pies. There’ll also be tips and tricks from make-up experts, personal skincare analysis, together with product and treatment demonstrations. Don’t miss out on some exclusive offers available on treatment bookings and Christmas Gift sets. A £10 booking fee is redeemable against retail purchases made during the evening. To reserve your place, please call Beauty Profile on 01366 385917.
Get set for a fun-filled November at Dobbies
Forthcoming Events... GERMAN FOOD MARKET Saturday 16th November SANTA ARRIVAL Sunday 17th November LADIES NIGHT Thursday 28th November
KLmagazine November 2013
Following months of anticipation and excitement, Dobbies Garden World has now arrived in King’s Lynn, brimming with a selection of the finest products for the garden and home. The new £8 million garden centre stocks plants and gardening goods, garden and conservatory furniture, specialist aquatics and water garden products, as well as homeware. The centre also boasts a 500-seater restaurant and Food Market, offering a selection of freshly-baked goods, locally sourced produce as well as a choice of speciality beers wines and spirits, confectionary and artisan treats. As gardening experts for nearly 150 years, Dobbies has, in recent years grown to become much more than just a garden centre, offering a selection of fun events for all the family to enjoy, as well as weekly, seasonally themed, garden Grow-How talks and Dobbies’ Little Seedlings Club – a free gardening club for youngsters aged between four and ten. Developed on the former Campbell’s factory site on the Hardwick Industrial Estate, Dobbies Garden Centre and Tesco Extra are joined by a glazed entrance area. This year, Dobbies is delighted to be supporting Make-A-Wish Foundation UK – the children’s wish-granting charity – as its National Christmas charity partner. With a fundraising target of £100,000, Make-A-Wish will be the key recipient of all Dobbies’ fundraising events over the festive season, including Santa’s Arrival, Ladies Night and a number of nativity and carol performances from the local community. Customers visiting Dobbies between now and Christmas Eve will also be able to make a festive wish or leave a seasonal message for a loved one on Dobbies’ Wish Tree. Special wish baubles can be purchased for a minimum £1 donation.
13
8
KLmagazine November 2013
Local Life
ABOVE: Tigger the pygmy goat and Maria the donkey (opposite) are just two of the animals hoping to appear in this year’s celebrations
Celebrating a natural nativity at Church Farm At Church Farm Rare Breeds Centre in Stow Bardolph, the animals add a very special touch to the Christmas celebrations...
W
e’re all familiar with the traditional nativity story – of how Joseph and Mary travelled from Nazareth to Bethlehem to take part in a census and found no room at the inn. This, of course, led to Jesus being born in an adjacent stable, surrounded by shepherds, wise men, and the stable’s normal animal residents. It’s a beautiful scene that’s been treasured for centuries, and it’s a long way from multicoloured flashing lights and animated singing snowmen. That natural aspect of the nativity is something really quite magical, and it’s something the Church Farm Rare Breeds Centre at Stow Bardolph has been organising for the last decade.
KLmagazine November 2013
“We opened in March ten years ago, and by September it occurred to us that we should really be doing something special for Christmas,” explains General Manager William Esse. “Since the Christmas story is all about celebrating new life, and animals have always played a part in nativity scenes, it was obvious we should involve some of our own.” A beautiful setting, a generous helping of straw and wood, some real trees, and a host of donkeys, sheep, goats and chickens – together with some true dedication and careful planning led to a very special kind of Christmas celebration. It’s an event that’s proved enormously popular since it started, and has been built on, improved and extended over the years.
9
Local Life
s Detail
LPH BARDO STOW M R A F H E CHURC EEDS CENTR R RARE B pening O ebruary Winter r 7th – 9th F m - 5pm e a b 0 1 m e y Nov unda ay to S er) 0 Thursd 6th Decemb 6) £6.3 2 ild (3-1 ve is free. d h e C s 0 lo E (c 7.2 see ristmas Adult £ Prices: service on Ch h Farm just to rc b The cri can visit Chu per child. 8 n Childre ristmas for £ Ch h.co.uk 2 6 Father 1 2 bardolp 8 w 3 to 6 s 6 3 Tel: 01 w.churchfarm w Web: w
ABOVE: Cotton Socks is a hand-reared Southdown sheep at the Church Farm Rare Breeds Centre, and she’ll be looking forward to a good brush down before the start of the Christmas celebrations this year. Trouble is, she’s as stubborn as she is fast!
The event centres on a special route through the Rare Breeds Centre which tells the story of the nativity through scenes involving shepherds, wise men and the Holy Family – with the added attraction that these shepherds really do have a flock to watch over! The celebrations culminate in a Crib Service at 3pm on Christmas Eve – an enchanting service for children telling the Christmas story with carols and readings. Father Christmas also makes an appearance, but as you might have gathered by now he’s not surrounded by tinsel and mechanical reindeer. At Church Farm, he has his very own woodland retreat, a quiet, tranquil and atmospheric place that adds to the magic. There’s plenty of activities for children, who can also write a letter and post it to the North Pole. But there’s no doubt the presence of the animals gives the celebrations a special dimension. The centre’s three donkeys – Toffee, Sooty and Maria – all play their part, although the excitement of being away from their paddock tends to see them concentrating more on eating the straw than the activity going on around them. And despite what you might imagine, the sheep are carefully selected for the
10
event. “We’ve got around 150 sheep to choose from,” William explains, “but only the tamest and the friendliest get selected for the nativity. Often they’re the ones who’ve been hand-reared, as they’re more used to being around people. Some of the wilder ones can get a bit anxious.” Make sure you keep your eye out for the North Ronaldsay sheep. On their native island in the Orkneys (where they’re confined to the shoreline by a wall that encloses the whole island) they manage to survive on a diet consisting almost entirely of seaweed. Of course, although not traditionally part of the Christmas story, the Centre's goats, rabbits, chickens and pigs all have their part to play. And there's an added benefit too. “Our Christmas celebrations are very popular with local schools,” says William. “We tell the story of Christmas without being too commercial about it, and get back to some of the natural aspects of the story. Of course, there’s also an element of educating people about food production and the preservation of our native rare breeds. People always enjoy it, but hopefully they’ll learn something from it as well.”
KLmagazine November 2013
EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO PUT ON THE
perfect
CHRISTMAS.
D Discover iscover aallll tthe he m magic agic o off tthe he fe festive festive season season in-store. in-store. www.dobbies.com w w w.dobbies.com D Dobbies obbies G Garden arden W Wo World orld | C Campbell’s ampbell’s M Meadow eadow b byy T Tesco Teesco | H Hardwick ardwick R Road oad King’s Ly L ynn | N orfolk | PE30 PE30 4 Te el : 0 King’s Lynn Norfolk 4NA NA | T Tel: 01553 1553 7 767 67 8 816 16
KING’S LYNN
2 "*%)# )* 2 ) *0 ! ! -* $0
BY APPOINTMENT TO HM QUEEN ELIZABETH II WASTE DISPOSAL CONTRACTORS
*
*(+ &
*-"*'&
/
*- .&%+ $%-! -! 3 '%)# ) 2$!!'%! %) .0++'3 $ 4 - *0. ) '%,0% 2 ./! -!(*1 '
! 3 '! - * ' ./% !/ ' ' .. '! /-% ' ./! 0 '! ** *%' *)# ) .$*-/ /!-( *)/- /. 1 %'
###
%! !
'!
! !" "
#! $
! $
14
KLmagazine November 2013
RICHARD II TWELFTH NIGHT
All the world’s a stage – now it’s on screen too!
KLmagazine November 2013
received more 5-star reviews than any other show in West End history), then you’ll be pleased to learn you can soon enjoy it in the comfort of The Luxe. From the Royal Opera House in Covent Garden comes a live series of classic operas and ballets, including The Nutcracker on December 12th and Mozart’s sublime Don Giovanni in February. And screened live from Shakespeare’s Globe in London comes Twelfth Night, Henry V and The Taming of the Shrew. It’s all part of how The Luxe is developing, which includes a public funding campaign for a second screen, involving sponsorship opportunities, donations and proceeds from the popular Luxe Film Club (and with Christmas coming up, membership of the Club makes a fantastic gift). The Luxe is even becoming a location in its own right – Shaun Williamson (best known as Eastenders Barry) used the cinema last month for filming part of his forthcoming film I’m Jayde – the One Hit Wonder. For full details of all these performances and live screenings, visit the new upgraded website, sign up for the newsletter, and follow The Luxe on Twitter and Facebook. Individuals and businesses wishing to help with funding for the future development of The Luxe should call 01945 660500 or send an e-mail to info@theluxecinema.com.
FRANKENSTEIN
A
stylish and luxurious delight for the area’s film lovers, The Luxe cinema in Wisbech continues to present a varied programme of mainstream, independent, classic and arthouse films. But now the proudly-independent cinema is opening up a whole new world of starstudded performances by screening an amazing line-up of world-class drama, opera, ballet and live concerts over the coming months. For the first time ever, you’ll be able to watch the Royal Shakespeare Company without visiting Stratford-upon-Avon as The Luxe screens the company’s live performance of Richard II (with David Tennant in the title role) on November 13th – with three encore screenings in case you miss it the first time. But that’s just the curtain-raiser. Helping celebrate the National Theatre’s 50th anniversary, The Luxe will be showing classic performances such as Danny Boyle’s production of Frankenstein (with Benedict Cumberbatch and Jonny Lee Miller), Hamlet and the hugely popular War Horse. If you can’t travel to Germany this month, The Luxe offers you the chance to see acclaimed rock band Keane as they perform live at Club Goya in Berlin on November 6th – and if you wished you’d seen the West End musical Merrily We Roll Along (which
SHAUN WILLIAMSON
The Luxe brings a world of cultural highlights direct to Wisbech
KEANE THE LUXE Alexandra Road, Wisbech Cambridgeshire PE13 1HQ 01945 588808 www.theluxecinema.com
15
14
KLmagazine November 2013
History
ABOVE: An early engraving of the leaders of the Gunpowder Plot, showing Guy Fawkes in the centre (fourth face from the left)
Guy Fawkes: finding the man behind the guy In just over 400 years, Guy Fawkes has gone from extremist and terrorist to folk hero and political icon. As we get ready to celebrate Bonfire Night, KL magazine looks at the story behind it.
H
e was caught virtually redhanded in an attempt to blow up the Houses of Parliament and assassinate the ruling monarch, but today Guy Fawkes is seen in a surprisingly heroic light. Often toasted as the last man to enter Parliament with honest intentions, he was voted 30th in a recent BBC poll of the Greatest Ever Britons – ahead of Henry VIII, Charles Dickens, Sir Francis Drake, King Arthur, George Stephenson, Sir Walter Raleigh and Alexander Graham Bell. What a difference 400 years makes. It’s also a little-known fact that Guy Fawkes and his failed Gunpowder Plot wasn’t an individual undertaking – in fact he was just one of 13 conspirators who planned to assassinate the Protestant King James and replace him
KLmagazine November 2013
with his daughter, the Princess Elizabeth. But he’s so iconic of the event that the annual firework celebrations of Bonfire Night on November 5th is just as often called Guy Fawke’s Night. So just who was he? Guy Fawkes was born in April 1570 in York. Although his immediate family were all Protestants, his maternal grandparents were ‘recusant’ Catholics, who refused to attend Protestant services. When Guy was eight, his father died and his widowed mother married a Catholic, Dionis Baynbrigge. It was these early religious influences that forged Fawkes’ convictions as an adult. By the time he was 21 he’d sold the estate his father had left him and gone to Europe to fight for Catholic Spain against the Protestant Dutch Republic
in the Eighty Years War. In 1603, following a successful military career, Guy (who by now had adopted the Italian version of his name, Guido) travelled to Spain to ask for the king’s support for a rebellion in England against the ‘heretic’ James I. Despite the fact Spain and England were still at war, Philip III refused. However, while he was in Spain, Fawkes was approached by a certain Thomas Wintour and asked to join what would become known as the Gunpowder Plot, under the leadership of Robert Catesby. Fawkes’ expertise with gunpowder gave him a central role in the conspiracy – he was responsible for sourcing and igniting the explosive. In 1604, Thomas Percy (another of the conspirators) was promoted and gained access to a house in London that belonged to John Whynniard,
17
History
ABOVE: This 1606 etching by Claes Visscher, depicting the execution of Guy Fawkes is now in the National Portrait Gallery
Keeper of the King’s Wardrobe. Fawkes was installed as a caretaker and began using the pseudonym John Johnson, servant to Percy. Although details are unclear, it seems that by December 1604, the plotters were tunnelling from a rented house to the House of Lords. When they heard a noise from above, Fawkes discovered that a recently-widowed woman was clearing out the undercroft of a house directly beneath the House of Lords. The conspirators purchased the lease to the house and Fawkes started filling the undercroft with gunpowder – by 20th July 1605 there were 36 barrels, but a week later a plague-induced panic caused the opening of Parliament to be delayed until Tuesday, November 5th. The plan was starting to come apart. Some of the conspirators were concerned about fellow Catholics who would be present at Parliament during the opening, and one of them was probably responsible for an anonymous tip-off letter sent to Lord Monteagle on October 26th. Although the letter was thought to have been dismissed as a hoax, Fawkes checked the undercroft on October 30th, and reported that nothing had been disturbed. The letter eventually made its way to the king, who ordered an investigation of the cellars underneath Parliament, which was still in progress on the night of November 4th – just as Fawkes positioned himself by the gunpowder armed with matches and a watch. Promptly arrested, Fawkes was then tortured (thanks to a special royal
18
licence, as torture was technically illegal), and although he withstood two days of it before confessing all. He was sentenced to the traditional death for traitors – to be hanged, drawn and quartered. In the event, he managed to find the strength to jump from the gallows, breaking his own neck and avoiding the horror of being cut down while still alive, having his testicles cut off, his stomach opened and his guts spilled before his eyes. Guy Fawkes’ body was still hacked into quarters and his remains sent to the four corners of the kingdom as a warning to others. An instant national bogeyman and the embodiment of Catholic extremism, the actions of Guy Fawkes served as a pretext for the repression of Catholics that wouldn’t be completely lifted for another 200 years. On the evening following Fawke’s arrest (on the night of November 5th) Londoners were encouraged to celebrate the King’s escape by lighting bonfires and an Act of Parliament designated each November 5th as a national day of thanksgiving for “the joyful day of deliverance” (it remained in force until 1859.) Fireworks were added to the celebrations from the 1650s, and the custom of burning an effigy dates from 1673, although the early ‘guys’ usually represented the Pope. Indeed, after 200 years, the word ‘guy’ had come to mean an oddly dressed person, and in America it lost any negative meaning and was used to refer to any male person. The rehabilitation of Guy Fawkes
dates from 1841, when William Harrison Ainsworth’s book Guy Fawkes: the Gunpowder Treason portrayed him in a generally sympathetic light, and transformed him into an acceptable fictional character. Before too long, Guy Fawkes was appearing as an action hero in children’s books and publications such as The Boyhood Days of Guy Fawkes which dates from 1905. In 2008, historian Lewis Call observed that Fawkes is now “a major icon in modern political culture, a potentially powerful instrument for the articulation of postmodern anarchism.” Of course, whether Guy Fawkes would be so highly regarded today if he was arrested trying to blow up the Houses of Parliament is another story entirely. HERE’S JUST A FEW EVENTS TO CELEBRATE GUY FAWKES NIGHT 2013... BONFIRE & FIREWORKS SPECTACULAR Hunstanton Cliff Top Car park Saturday 2nd November (from 5pm) Cars £10. On foot – adults £4, under 16 and over 65 £2. Organised by the Hunstanton and District Round Table. GRAND FIREWORK DISPLAY Fakenham Racecourse, Fakenham Saturday 2nd November (from 5pm) £16 cars, on foot £5 FAWKES IN THE WALKS 2013 The Walks, King’s Lynn Friday 1st November (from 6pm) A free event organised by the Borough Council of King’s Lynn & West Norfolk and King’s Lynn Lions.
KLmagazine November 2013
KLmagazine November 2013
19
What’s On
Vouchers Corn Exchange Gifthr istmas! – a great idea for C ge gift Exchan our King’s Lynn Corn Why not grab some of e the perfect night lov you e eon som e vouchers and giv and in any denomination out? They’re available y’re simply perfect! The w. sho any t ins aga redeemable
It’s nearly panto time!
(oh yes, it is)
T CHLOE HAR
Tickets are on sale now for Beauty and the Beast, but hurry – some shows have already sold out!
I
t’s the busiest time of the year at King’s Lynn Corn Exchange. We’re currently in the middle of our packed autumn season, and then our biggest and most spectacular event, the pantomime Beauty And The Beast starts in just a month’s time. Plus in mid-November we launch our brand new spring season for 2014! If you’re one of the thousands of people who’ve already bought tickets for the panto (it’s a real ‘beast’ of a show!) you’re in for a real treat – but if you haven’t got tickets to be part of the magic yet, there’s still time, but you’ll need to hurry as some performances are already sold out! A baddie wanting
plenty of boos, goodies with some gags, and a heroine in hot water – but what’s happened to the handsome Prince? Join us for a spectacular adventure as Dame Derriere and her son Potty Pierre cause chaos at the chateau. From the team that brought you last year’s critically acclaimed Aladdin, once again we promise you live music and rip-roaring adventure in true panto style! Beauty and the Beast stars DARREN DAY as both the Prince and The Beast. Darren’s first starring theatre appearance in the West End was the title role in Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat, and he’s since starred as Don in Summer Holiday,
Y DARREN DA
20
KLmagazine November 2013
Danny in Grease, and Tony in Copacabana. He’s starred in many pantomimes, playing both goodie and baddie roles. Darren enjoys panto season, particularly now he has young children who love to see their dad on stage. By popular demand, audience favourite IAN MARR returns for his fourth year, not only playing Dame Derriere, but also directing the panto – so he’s a very busy man (or lady!) at the moment. Meanwhile, KLFM’s Breakfast Show host ADAM NEWSTEAD makes his professional pantomime debut as Bertrand The Butler. As a youngster, Adam was no stranger to the stage – he trained locally at the well-respected Footlights Performing Arts School where he studied drama, contemporary dance and took exams in tap-dancing. Adam’s really excited to be returning to the stage for the first time since his radio career began some ten years ago. The delightful CHLOE HART (currently starring in Wicked in the West End) plays Fairy Formidable in Beauty and the Beast. She’s also starred as Tracy Turnblad in Hairspray and appeared in Les Misérables. She’s looking forward to appearing in her first ever panto and can’t wait to spend Christmas in King’s Lynn. You may recognise STEVEN PINDER (playing Belle’s Father) as he played the King in our first panto, Jack and the Beanstalk – he’s also made many television appearances and is best known for playing the character Max Farnham in Brookside. As Belle, JOANNA SAWYER has recently graduated from the Guildford School of Acting in Musical Theatre, where she was awarded the Musical Theatre Prize, while funny man JOHN PRITCHARD (Potty Pierre) is a much sought-after comic who simply loves pantomime. BEAUTY AND THE BEAST The pantomime runs from Friday 6th December until Tuesday 31st December with a total of 42 shows. Beauty And The Beast is sponsored by J & K Glass and Glazing Ltd in association with KLFM 96.7 and tickets are priced from just £10. Concessions, family tickets and group discounts are all available.
DER STEVEN PIN
WYER A S A N N A O J STEAD ADAM NEW NEW SEASON January-May 2014
ARD H C T I R P N H JO
The King’s Lynn Corn Exchange new Spring 2014 brochure is released on November 18th. Just some of highlights include a week-long run of the smash hit musical Dreambo ats & Petticoats direct from the West End, plus a concert from Paul Ca rrack, comedy from Russell Kane, fun for children in Peppa Pig’s Big Splash and a stunning production of the Ver di opera Aida by Ellen Kent. To see the complete selection of great sho ws coming up check out the What’s On page of the King’s Lynn Corn Exchan ge website.
JOIN OUR MAILING LIST – AND WE’LL KEEP YOU IN THE SPOTLIGHT! Have you signed up to the Corn Exchange e-mail mailing Don’t forget list yet? We’ll keep you fully updated with all the latest to follow the news – and you can now choose your preferences so we Corn Exchange can keep you informed about the shows that most online too: interest you! For more details, visit our website at www.kingslynncornexchange.co.uk or scan the QR code able from the Box for all shows are avail s et ck Ti ok online at opposite which will take you direct to our home page. 764864 or you can bo
Office 01553 exchange.co.uk www.kingslynncorn
KLmagazine November 2013
21
The Big Interview
Tom FitzPatrick Leader, North Norfolk District Council KL MAGAZINE: Could you give us a brief overview of North Norfolk District Council? TOM FITZPATRICK: The District Council (NNDC) is responsible for nearly 100,000 people across an area of nearly 400 square miles. Our responsibilities cover planning, leisure, environmental services, coastal protection and electoral registration – to name just a few. A major focus of the administration is to support business growth and the development of the local economy. KL MAGAZINE: What does your role as Leader of the Council entail? TOM FITZPATRICK: Like other councils in Norfolk, we have a Leader and Cabinet model, so a lot of dayto-day policy decisions are taken by me in consultation with my colleagues. I represent the Council in a number of outside bodies and also work with Leaders of other Councils to ensure that the voice of districts is heard at national level. KL MAGAZINE: What are the biggest issues facing the Council today? TOM FITZPATRICK: Ongoing cuts in funding from central government is probably our biggest challenge. We’re faced with the need to continually strive to balance the budget, maintain council tax at its current level and still provide statutory services to our citizens. Promotion of economic benefit while preserving the beauty and attraction of the district, both coastal and inland. KL MAGAZINE: What’s the most rewarding part of your job? TOM FITZPATRICK: Knowing the work we do is for the benefit of people living in the district. Seeing the creation of new jobs and muchneeded housing being agreed makes a lot of the problems seem worthwhile. Getting in place policies to help promote the good of the whole area is also a positive feeling. KL MAGAZINE: What’s been your
22
KLmagazine November 2013
greatest achievement as Leader of the Council? TOM FITZPATRICK: The loss of large-scale crab processing and jobs at Cromer last year was a huge shock and I pledged we would work to replace the gap. The opening of a new facility last month was to a large extent the result of the work of the Council, which was tremendous. KL MAGAZINE: What have you learned from your work? TOM FITZPATRICK: That North Norfolk isn’t just a beautiful area with the most astonishing coastline and wonderful countryside. The district is also home to internationallyknown brands and producers. One fact I didn’t know before being elected to the Council is that over a third of the UK’s gas supply passes through North Norfolk. KL MAGAZINE: What do you like best about North Norfolk? TOM FITZPATRICK: It’s difficult to choose without offending someone, somewhere! However, I live in Walsingham – which first became a pilgrimage village nearly a thousand years ago and is still a wonderful medieval village. The whole of the landscape is beautiful with wonderful historic churches and buildings. Best of all, the people are really friendly. KL MAGAZINE: In your free time, how do you like to relax? TOM FITZPATRICK: Up until a few years back I would have said I was a keen competitive rower. Nowadays I seem to veer more towards gentle walks to work up a thirst for sampling the products of some of the excellent local small breweries. I also have a keen interest in history. KL MAGAZINE: Who’s your biggest inspiration? TOM FITZPATRICK: Five years ago I would have given a very different answer. Now I would cite Barry and Margaret Mizen, the parents of Jimmy Mizen, the south London schoolboy who was murdered the day after his sixteenth birthday. Their example of Christian forbearance and resolve – which led to them not seeking revenge, but instead setting up a foundation to remember their son in a positive way and make things safer for other young people – is truly inspiring. I once heard them speak and was very moved. KL MAGAZINE: What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given? TOM FITZPATRICK: A good pointer from my father was to listen to advice from others, but be prepared to make my own mistakes – and then learn from them. He also told me that if you help others you always get a lot more back out of life and enjoy it more. KL MAGAZINE: What was the last book you read? TOM FITZPATRICK: After a 25-year gap, I have just read A Time of Gifts by Patrick Leigh Fermor again. It’s an amazing account of travel through a disappeared world and a time between the wars, when so much had changed after the First World War and would still end up being wiped away by the rise of the Nazis and then by the Second World War. KL MAGAZINE: Tell us something about yourself that would surprise people... TOM FITZPATRICK: I like to read poetry!
KLmagazine November 2013
23
BEFORE
“The fitters were very polite and tidy, and worked very well. We are absolutely delighted with the end result and would recommend Economy Windows to all our friends and family.” Mr and Mrs M Walton Highway, Wisbech
AFTER
Top class products and service – from a Top 100 business! F
or the fourth year running, ECOnomy Windows has been proposed and selected for membership of the Master Window and Conservatory Installers Association Top 100. It’s a genuine accolade for the Wisbech-based company, since the Top 100 is a nationally-recognised and respected register of the very best window and conservatory businesses in the UK. “The compiling of the Top 100 window and conservatory companies was deemed to be essential,” says Don Waterworth, founder of MWCIA, “as it enables consumers to easily recognise the most professional, the most prestigious and the most successful companies in the UK.” As a member of the Top 100, ECOnomy Windows has been carefully vetted and approved by private practice
NEW CONSERVATORY SHOW SITE AND E DISTRIBUTION CENTR
KLmagazine August 2013 18
Building Surveyors and has consistently demonstrated high levels of skill, technical competence, customer care and respect – and continued to offer exceptional product quality and choice. “By choosing a Top 100 company, people can make an informed choice to be provided with polite, respectful service, professional installers and high levels of management support,” says Don. It’s good news for ECOnomy Windows, its installers (all of whom are fully employed by the company) and its many customers. “We’re immensely proud that our commitment to sourcing the best products and giving the best customer
service has resulted in a repeat of this massive achievement,” says ECOnomy Windows Business Manager Jim McClure. “It speaks volumes for the loyal and dedicated employees who have helped us deliver and maintain high standards in the local area for over 25 years.” You can rest assured that in choosing ECOnomy Windows for your home, you’re choosing one of the very best in the business. “ECOnomy Windows epitomises the perfect Top 100 company,” says Don, “with high levels of professionalism throughout – backed up by first-rate products and polite, attentive staff.” If quality counts with you, you can count on ECOnomy Windows.
CONSERVATORY SHOW PARK Elm High Road, Wisbech Cambridgeshire PE14 0DG Tel: 01945 588988 / 01553 777088 Web: www.economywindows.com E-mail: mail@economy-windows.co.uk 29 KLmagazine August 2013
West Norfolk: Then and Now
History
1800s?
2013
FROM FIRST-CLASS STAMPS TO FIRST-CLASS STYLE... Since 1994, Elizabeth Darby has been treating customers to a selection of ladies fashions from famous name brands and up-and-coming designers – but many years ago,
KLmagazine November 2013
customers would have come through the doors looking for something other than high quality clothing: stamps, telegraphs and even (judging by the window) Cadbury’s cocoa! The lovely picture at the top of the page of the old Hempton Green Post
Office and Stores just outside Fakenham is thought to date from the 1800s, but if you can supply a more accurate date for the photograph please let us know. We’ll be bringing you another nostalgic look at life in West Norfolk next month.
25
Kings Lynn Audi Sales | Service | Parts
Kings Lynn Audi Hamburg Way Kings Lynn Norfolk PE30 2ND Tel: 01553 779500 www.marriottmotorgroup.co.uk
26
KLmagazine November 2013
Insurance Matters WITH ADRIAN FLUX
* H WW LQ J W R J UL S V Z LW K K R P H L Q V X UD Q F H
G
etting the right insurance cover for your home isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t always easy, with a large range of options to choose from and a variety of different limits for things like electronic equipment, pedal cycles and jewellery. 1) Assumptions: many quotation websites will make certain assumptions about your property to reduce the time taken to provide a quote, such as the type of construction and nature of your door and window locks. Before you take out a policy, make sure the assumptions made are correct, or you may not be covered in the event of a claim. 2) Underinsurance: Make sure you give an accurate assessment of the value of your contents to avoid falling foul of under-insurance. Go through your home room by room and estimate the cost of replacement of all contents. If you insure for ÂŁ20,000 but your contents are actually worth ÂŁ40,000, you may receive only a 50 per cent settlement, even for smaller claims. 3) Legal expenses cover will sometimes be included as standard or will sometimes be charged for as an optional extra. It covers you for a range of legal disputes, such as neighbour disputes, employment disputes, personal injury cover, consumer and taxation disputes. If you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t require this cover, it may be better to select a policy that excludes it from the standard cover if it reduces the cost. 4) Home business: If you run a business from home, like an eBay or Etsy shop, you will need to declare this to your insurer, who may exclude business contents and equipment from your policy. Adrian Flux offers a home business insurance policy to cater for people who run small businesses from home.
5) Contents limits: Different insurers have differing limits for contents like money, pedal cycles, valuables and electronic equipment like TVs, computers and games consoles. You should make sure the limits are adequate for your needs, or see if you can increase them if you need higher amounts covered.
8) Pedal cycles: As well as checking standard limits to ensure your bike is fully covered at your home address, remember that your bike must be securely locked for theft cover to apply away from the home. 9) Smoke detectors: Check to see if your insurance requires working smoke detectors
Make sure you give an accurate assessment of the value of your contents to avoid falling foul of under-insurance. 6) Lodgers: If you have a lodger, even if they are a friend, you will need to tell your insurer. You should also tell your mortgage provider or landlord. Your lodgerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s possessions will not be covered under your home insurance, but they can take out separate cover in their own name. 7) Collections: Some insurers are wary of providing cover for collections where their value is disproportionately high to the overall contents. These items will need to be declared, and Adrian Flux can usually SURYLGH VSHFLo HG FRYHU GHSHQGLQJ RQ security arrangements.
WR EH o WWHG ,I VR PDNH VXUH WKH\ DUH o WWHG and test them once a week. 10) Maintenance: If your home is in a poor state of repair, thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a chance that insurers can refuse a claim if the damage can be attributed to poor maintenance. This is particularly relevant in winter, where VWRUP GDPDJH FKLPQH\ o UHV RU EXUVW SLSHV can all be mitigated against with routine maintenance. For great deals on home insurance contact Adrian Flux on 01553 845845.
Adrian Flux is one of the leading specialist insurance brokers in the UK DQG FDQ KHOS \RX Ă&#x20AC; QG WKH ULJKW FRYHU DW WKH ULJKW SULFH )RU PRUH LQIRUPDWLRQ call 01553 845 845 RU YLVLW DGULDQĂ X[ FR XN
$XWKRULVHG DQG UHJXODWHG E\ WKH )LQDQFLDO &RQGXFW $XWKRULW\
5&"300.4 Ç (*'54 Ç )0.&8"3&4 Ç %&$03 "5*0/4
Yule Y ule llove ove ve Christmas Christmas at at C Charmed harmed Interiors! Interiors! For F or a h herd erd o off rreindeer eindeer and and other other festive festive g goodies oodies
Av Available A vailab able n now ow a att tthe he h hidden idden ge g gem m between b etween D Downham ownham M Market’s arket’s b bridges. ridges. s T The he H Hythe, ythe, B Bridge ridge R Road, oad, D Downham ownham M Market arket A Also lso o online nline a at: t: w www.charmed-interiors.co.uk ww.charmed-in nteriors.co.uk
28
KLmagazine November 2013
www.doubledaygroup.co.uk
Guaranteed smiles with a Doubleday Christmas! A brilliant range of original gift ideas
T
rust Doubleday to bring something special to your Christmas celebrations. All year round we supply and service a comprehensive range of agricultural machinery from leading manufacturers, and offer a consistently large stock of high quality used vehicles. At this time of year, however, we like to offer something to our younger (and young at heart!) customers. The Doubleday Christmas Collection includes a fantastic selection of accurate and finely-detailed model vehicles from ride-on tractors to remote control 4x4s – they’re great fun and the younger generation will learn from them too! Plus we have a wide choice of clothing, soft toys, jigsaws, games and fun items specially designed to add a happy Doubleday smile to your Christmas shopping. Call in now to see more!
DOUBLEDAY PART OF THE LANDSCAPE FOR GENERATIONS
King’s Lynn 01553 617666 very Happy Christmas Holbeach 01406 540261 A and a great New Year Bourne 01778 424500 to all our customers – past and present!
Lynn Road, Wiggenhall St Germans PE34 3EU
In real life, it’s the hare who wins. Every time. Look around you. And in any case it’s my contention that Aesop was writing for the tortoise market. Hares have no time to read – they’re too busy winning the game...
PICTURE: MARTIN CLAY
– novelist Anita Brookner
26
KLmagazine November 2013
Local Life
They box, they’re mad – but they’re in danger They’ve been a part of our countryside – and culture – since Roman times, but over the last 100 years, the numbers of hares have decreased dramatically. KL magazine looks at their story...
D
uring the late 1800s there were about four million brown hares in Britain, but (according to the Hare Preservation Trust) recent surveys indicate the population has declined by over 80% in the last century and the decline is ongoing. In some parts of Britain such as the southwest, the brown hare is almost a rarity and may even be locally extinct. Fortunately, the brown hare is more numerous in Norfolk, and the county has a particular responsibility for safeguarding the population. You’ll find it throughout the countryside (especially in North Norfolk), usually on arable land and on grazing marshes in the areas around
KLmagazine November 2013
the Broads. However, even in Norfolk, there aren’t as many as there used to be. Figures from the national Game Bag Census indicate that from 1911, when there was around 50 hares per square kilometer, numbers dropped to a low of about 10/km2 just after the Second World War. Although it rose to 22/km2 by the start of the 1960s, a rapid decline over the last thirty years mean that today there are only about five hares per square kilometer, with only the slightest signs of recovery in recent years. This is due to a number of reasons. Changes in farming practices (such as the adoption of ‘break crops’) and an overall drop in farm diversity haven’t helped. Similarly, an increase in the
numbers of foxes and large avian predators has had an impact as both are the main predators of leverets (baby hares), and organised hare shoots may reduce the spring population by over 50%. However, it’s important to note that organised shoots normally only take place in areas where hares are numerous and likely to cause agricultural damage – they’re not a significant threat to the species. It may also be significant that rabbit numbers have now largely recovered since myxomatosis – hares certainly profited when rabbit numbers were lower. Although the hare is currently listed as being of ‘Least Concern’ by the International Union for Conservation of
31
PICTURE: BEN CALVERT/RSPB
Local Life
Nature, keeping a careful eye on their numbers (and their natural habitat) will be important over the coming years. Especially since they bear the distinction of being the fastest land mammal in the UK. Longer-limbed and swifter than rabbits, hares use their powerful hind legs to escape enemies, and can reach speeds in excess of 45mph. Although hares are related to rabbits, they’re actually quite different. In addition to being larger (they can be up to 60cm high), hares breed on the ground rather than in a burrow – and that’s why the young are born with fur and open eyes. They need to fend for themselves pretty quickly. Hares were almost certainly introduced to the UK by the Romans, and they’ve been a part of our national culture ever since – from their appearance in coats of arms to the current vogue for decorative bronzes. One of their most distinctive and endearing characteristics is their habit of chasing each other around during the Spring (at other times of the year, hares are generally nocturnal and shy) and ‘boxing’ by striking one another with their paws. For a long time, this behaviour was thought to be competition between competing rival males, but modern research has revealed it’s usually a female hitting a male – either to show she’s not yet ready to mate or as a test of her suitor’s determination.
32
The animal’s springtime antics are the source of the saying ‘mad as a March hare’ – which was current at least 300 years before Lewis Carroll immortalised it in Alice's Adventures in Wonderland. “The March Hare will be much the most interesting,” says Alice in the book, “and perhaps as this is May it won’t be raving mad. At least not so mad as it was in March.” You’ll notice the straw on the hare’s head in the book’s classic illustrations by Sir John Tenniel (see below) – a typical way of showing madness in Victorian times. Mad or not, hares do have a measure of protection through the Hares Preservation Act of 1892, which made it illegal to sell hares or leverets between March 1st and July 31st. According to the law, hare mustn’t be on the menu in restaurants during this period, but it only applies to British hares – imported hares are exempt. Around 15 years ago, concern about the brown hare’s continued decline led
to a government Biodiversity Action Plan, which had among its aims a doubling of the brown hare population by the year 2010. Recent research by the University of Bristol suggests this target is unlikely to be achieved by habitat management alone and more proactive measures need to be taken to reduce hare mortality. The Hare Preservation Trust believes a ‘Protected Species’ status (as opposed to ‘Least Concern’) would benefit the future conservation and welfare of our native hares, and organises a range of campaigns in that direction. For more details and information, see the Trust’s website at www.hare-preservation-trust.co.uk
KLmagazine November 2013
FAKENHAM
The professional way to get your garden ready for winter! Nowâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the time to get your garden ready for winter, and ARCO have all the equipment you need. A true local service and a complete range of tools and equipment, backed by a complete support service.
l Full range of garden machinery for sale l Complete tool and plant hire service l Comprehensive workshop for repairs and servicing l Local deliveries l Full service and support l Fully experienced and trained sales staff
D STANDARD GOL
3$1# 6
.4$,!$0
2'
7 (012
"$
/,
#,(11(.- #3+21 %0., 8 6$ 01 -# 3-#$0 "".,/ -($# !6 #3+21 $"$,!$091 0 "$ 3$1# 6 -3 0691 0 "$ $5 $ 091
%(012 0 "$ 6 %(012 0 "$
/, /,
2'
(012 0 "$ 2(,$1 0$ 13!)$"2 2. "' -&$
Fakenham RACECOURSE
5 Station Road, Heacham, Kingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Lynn Norfolk PE31 7HG t: 01485 571789 e: arcoworkshop@posmail.co.uk w: www.arcotoolhire.co.uk
*$-' , *$-' ,
"$".301$ 2# '$ "$".301$ .0%.+* (-%. % *$-' ,0 "$".301$ ". 3* 555 % *$-' ,0 "$".301$ ". 3*
Garden Centre Coffee Shop Aquatics Reptile Centre Tools and accessories Bird feeding products
Real Nordmann Christmas trees available from the 1st December. Christmas decorations, Christmas lights, Christmas gifts for all your Christmas needs
Poppyfields Drive | Snettisham | Norfolk PE31 7UD Telephone: 01485 544638 KLmagazine November 2013
33
Things you didn’t know about Bearts
now! special offers on selected clothing all through the hayloft!
Brighton Mill, Stowbridge King’s Lynn PE34 3pd 01366 388151 | www.bearts.co.uk
Tamar Nurseries Plant Centre & Cash and Carry Senior Citizen Day Autumn/Winter Planting Are you looking to plant a hedge? Do you have a large space to fill on a small budget? Bare-root hedging and forestry is the ideal solution, starting from just 25p a stem (sold in bundles of 25 stems) Bare root trees starting from £9.78 Advantages of Bare root Much more cost effective – especially if you are planting a large area Much easier and cheaper to transport Only planted in winter, so low maintenance after planting Greater selection of varieties – more varieties are grown bare root Plants are dormant in winter – always the best time to transplant any stock Excellent for wildlife
T 10% DISCOUN
- THURSDAYs
to receive Quote TAMAR11 our first purchase y 10% discount on
% !$ &'% $ % % & ' (" / '%#$(" 0 $ " & % %%, %$ "(& '( (& #%" ! #%"(& # *## #%, (& ) " #!!#" % ' (& !#"# ," #!!#" *' #%" (& &, ) ' / '%#$(%$(% 0 (%$ #$$ % (& &, ) ' #!!#" (&'%(! #) # (! #!!#" % " % ) ' %("(& ) (! %%, %("(& &$ "#& ' #%" ( % (& %# (% #!!#" " & #& "" # #&
&# &'# " +' "& ) % " # & %( & $ '#$ %, $#' %#*" '% & &$% " ( & " " " & '& ) %,#" & * #! . # '% %& #, ', & #("' ) " " %
+ !$ & # ! '(% "
% "" " & $(
&
OPENING TIMES: Monday-Friday 8am-4pm - All year round. Saturday opening resumes March - October 2014 School Road, West Walton, Wisbech PE14 7DS Tel: 01945 464383 ext 2 E-mail: cashandcarry@tamarnurseries.co.uk Web: www.tamarnurseries.co.uk
34
KLmagazine November 2013
Pets
AnimalMatters Our monthly look at the issues concerning you and your pets with Alex Dallas of the London Road Veterinary Centre...
Canine Seasonal Illness... In September I wrote about the condition affecting dogs called Seasonal Canine Disease, a mystery illness only affecting dogs that have recently walked in the woods. In early October, we had a sudden rush of the condition, with three dogs presenting with the illness in one day. Full credit to the vets and staff involved, as all cases were recognised and after treatment all made a full recovery. With the help of local radio we tried to warn other owners of the risk in the strangely mild start we had to October, and thankfully cases have now stopped. By the time you read this the risk should be over and woodland walks can be enjoyed again without the threat of illness to your dog, at least until next Autumn.
It’s all in a day’s work T
here was a report recently of some of the strange emergency calls people make to the fire service. One lady called because there was a spider in her bedroom, another man wanted help changing a tyre, and another call was because a squirrel had got into the house. One of the biggest commitments we make individually as vets and collectively as a practice is the provision of out-of-hours emergency services, and we get our fiar share of similar calls – as well as the real emergencies, of course. I remember one night when I was on call and got called out to see a dog that had an injured back leg. In the owner’s own words, it was “hanging off” – which sounded quite alarming. Naturally, I dashed in, and on examining the dog found (eventually) a small cut just breaking the surface of the skin. After treatment, I returned home – only to find the phone ringing again with the message that a dog had injured a back leg and was (you
guessed it) “hanging off.” I quickly headed back to the surgery and was presented with a dog who had been hit by a train, and whose leg was quite literally hanging off – being only just attached by a small piece of skin. You see, that’s the thing – you just never know what you’re going to be dealing with next. My favourite callout was back in the days when we still looked after farm animals. I got a phone call early one morning from a regular cattle client, who explained he needed me to come out because he had “a cow stuck in a tree.” As you might imagine, I was picturing a distressed cow up in the branches of a tree. When I got there, however, the cow had all four legs on the ground. There was a hollow in the trunk of the tree, and the cow had put her head in and got lodged. I swiftly administered a sedative, and with some chainsawing we released her safely from the tree. Rest assured – we’re always here for you when you need us most!
For more information and details about Seasonal Canine Illness, please visit the website at www.aht.org.uk
Your pets Manks to JUDY COLLETT for sending this lovely picture of her German Shepherd Rosie smiling for the camera! Don’t forget to keep sending me pictures of your pets to Animal Matters at KL magazine, 18 Tuesday Market Place, King’s Lynn, Norfolk PE30 1JW or you can e-mail them to editor@klmagazine.co.uk
LONDON ROAD 25 London Road, King’s Lynn t: 01553 773168 e: info@lrvc.co.uk HOLLIES Paradise Road, Downham Market t: 01366 386655 e: hollies@holliesvetclinic.co.uk KLmagazine November 2013
35
ICE FOR YOU –Y! THE TOTAL SERV DEN MACHINER AND YOUR GAR
We help to keep Norfolk looking great If you’re building in Norfolk, there’s nothing quite as distinctive as Carrstone – and it’s one of the many quality aggregates we can suppply, from washed recycled railway ballast to crushed concrete, brick and tarmac. All materials are available from any of our 18 sites or delivered directly to your site on our own dedicated fleet of vehicles. Total Norfolk, total quality.
Sales: 01366 388900 E-mail: enquiries@frimstone.co.uk Website: www.frimstone.co.uk
!
!
" ! !
G VOU IFT C Avai HERS lable Open Monday - Saturday and late evenings Thursday & Friday to 6.00pm
If what you want isn't in stock we can order it for you.
01366 858 708 | www.outdoor-antics.org.uk 3 High Street, Downham Market
New and used garden machinery supplied from a pair of shears to a compact tractor We are taking bookings for annual servicing for all types of garden machinery!
If you chip it, cut it, grind it, strim it, mow it, mix it, mulch it, blow it, bend it... then we can mend it! We are dealers for: Toro, Kubota, Countax, Webb, Stihl, Efco, Briggs & Stratton, Weibang, Handy, Air-Seal Products, Lawn King.
R &B
Turf and Groundcare Machinery
The Workshop, Marsh Farm, Wolferton, King’s Lynn, PE31 6HB tel: 01485 540645 | web: www.randbmowermen-d.co.uk email: randbgroundcare@googlemail.com
(-* *2+ ' . * $' + ! * # ' +
-* %( % , ' , #'$
'
& (! & # '$ + # + %% ,# /) *$ ' % /) *,$+ 0(- 1 ' 0(-* * 1 ' +
-%% + *.$ ! $%$,$ + + *.$ 0+ $ , 0 *(! ++$(' % & # '$ + -,+, ' $'" -+,(& * + *.$ " $
!
#
% )#(' 36
KLmagazine November 2013
The amazing wildlife on your doorstep...
W
hether it’s marvelling at huge numbers of knot swirling overhead on the highest tides, a sky full of pink-footed geese commuting to their nightime roost, a barn owl hunting over the grassland, or watching a fantastic sunset over the mudflats, Snettisham RSPB Nature Reserve is sure to impress. Snettisham Reserve offers visitors two of the best wildlife spectacles in the UK. The site is renowned for large flocks of knot that gather to roost on the high tides and for large numbers of pink-footed geese that roost overnight on the reserve during the winter months. As you stand, tired on an early autumn or winter morning, you’re quickly awakened by the amazing spectacular unfolding in front of you as swarms of birds take to the sky and fly closely over your head. The sheer number is sure to impress you. Situated on the eastern side of the Wash, this is the UK’s most important estuary in terms of its assemblage of wintering and passage waterfowl. At peak periods the Wash can hold in excess of 400,000 waders and wildfowl. Snettisham also holds internationally-important numbers of pinkfooted geese, knot, and bar-tailed godwit. COUNT THEM IF YOU CAN... There’s always something to see on the reserve but the best birdwatching opportunities are episodic in nature. Large numbers of wading birds are best viewed on the highest high tides as this is when they’re pushed further and further up the mudflats by the tide. When there are no more mudflats, the birds are forced to leave and will take to the sky in large numbers in search of a new roosting site. Many of the birds will fly over to the reserve lagoons and roost during the high tide period on various shingle islands and
KLmagazine November 2013
areas of bank. You can witness this overwhelming experience of having thousands (sometimes tens of thousands) of knot and other wader species flying a few metres overhead. This spectacle occurs on suitable tides in all months of the year except June. Time your visit to arrive at least one and a half hours before high tide (6.8m and above), and make sure that this occurs during daylight hours. IMPORTANT: be aware that weather conditions, especially wind direction and strength, can affect the height of the tide, and subsequently some tides predicted to cover all the mud don’t do so (if the wind is from the southwest or south) and some tides predicted to fall short of completely covering the mud may actually do so (if the wind is from the northwest through to northeast). Around mid-July waders start to arrive back on the mudflats, and very quickly numbers start to build so that by early to mid-August there can be over 30,000 waders present on the reserve. Peak numbers of knot generally occur anytime between September and November, with a slow decline in numbers through the winter being the normal pattern.
(normally in mid- to late-January, the numbers of pink-footed geese drops dramatically, with the birds flying north to Scotland to stage before continuing back to their breeding grounds throughout April. At peak times in recent years, Norfolk has held in excess of 100,000 pink-footed geese. The birds roost overnight on the mudflats (or on the surface of the sea if the tide is in far enough), and can be viewed at dawn and dusk as they leave and return to/from their feeding grounds inland. If you position yourself just right you’re able to see the large flocks flying over your head as they enter and leave the reserve. Generally, dawn is better than dusk as there’s a better chance to see them as the sun comes up. To see pink-footed geese, avoid four or five days either side of the full moon – movements of the geese are very unpredictable at this time, as if there’s enough light at night the geese may continue feeding on the fields. Better still, join us for a our Pinkies Breakfast guided walks with our expert guide – followed by a hot breakfast to warm you up. Visit www.rspb.org.uk/snettisham to find out more or call 01485 210779 to book your place.
BRING AN UMBRELLA... With thousands of pink-footed geese taking to the sky at once and flying closely over your head, watch out that one doesn’t drop something on you! The geese start to arrive from their breeding grounds in Iceland and eastern Greenland from early September, with the largest numbers arriving midNovember to mid-January. The birds winter here mainly due to the high quantities of sugar beet grown in Norfolk. The geese actively seek out fields of harvested sugar beet and consume all the bits left over from the harvesting process. Once the harvesting of sugar beet finishes
SNETTISHAM RESERVE... The reserve is open every day of the year. There are four birdwatching hides located around the southern lagoon, ideal for bird watching. An information board is provided in the car park, but note there is no visitor centre or public toilets located on the site.
giving nature a home 37
PICTURE: PROFESSOR THOMAS HANAHOE
The amazing sights of RSPB Snettisham Nature Reserve
Fashion
fashion
Whether you’re walking the dog along Norfolk’s superb beaches or wrapping up warm for some retail therapy, there’s no reason to dress down. Our local boutiques are full of style this season...
38
Shelly coat by Toggi (£135) CHRISTOPHER WILLIAM COUNTRY | Creake Abbey 01328 738983 KLmagazine November 2013
Knitted pullover with leopard spots from the Betty Barclay Autumn/Winter 2013 Collection CINDYS | Sutton Bridge 01406 350961 KLmagazine November 2013
39
Fashion
Georgia waterproof jacket by Target Dry (ÂŁ75) EVERYTHING OUTDOOR | Holkham 01328 712120 40
KLmagazine November 2013
&
$$$
!
!
%
#
"
$
!
%
TURNAROUND
KLmagazine November 2013
41
Fashion
Quilted check jacket by Concept K (£159) ELIZABETH DARBY | Fakenham 01328 855312 42
Padded Coat by Joules (£169) GODDARDS | King’s Lynn 01553 772382 KLmagazine November 2013
C
O
M
P
E
T
I
T
I
O
N
Win a £200 gift card for Castle Mall, Norwich! T lk about being spoilt for choice! With over 70 stores, Castle Mall in Norwich has a huge variety of big-name retailers to suit all your Christmas shopping needs. From fashion stores for that all-important party dress to children’s toy shops for the perfect present, you’ll find everything you’re looking for – and plenty of surprises too! This fantastic centre is open until 6pm throughout November and 7pm during December, with late night shopping on Thursday evenings. Make a note that Santa will be in his Grotto from Thursday November 14th until Christmas Eve – with a visit and a gift from only £3.99. and to make your visit even easier, Castle Mall has space for over 790 cars in two car parks. Of course, once Christmas is over you’ll be looking forward to the January sales – and what better way to enjoy them than with a £200 Castle Mall Gift Card? That’s the fabulous prize in our
free-to-enter competition – so what are you waiting for? All your shopping needs in one easy (and enjoyable) visit – and £200 to treat yourself and your family. All you have to do is send a postcard or envelope including your name, address, e-mail and telephone number to KL Gift Card Competition, Castle Mall, 100 Castle Mall, Norwich NR1 3DD. You can also e-mail your entry to info@castlemallnorwich.co.uk or take it in person to the Information Desk on Level 2. All entries must be received by 31st December 2013, and the winner will be notified by 5th January 2014 by e-mail or telephone. Entrants must be 16 or over. No purchase necessary. The prize is non-transferable and there is no cash alternative. And good luck with your entry!
CASTLE MALL Norwich NR1 3DD 01603 766430 www.castlemallnorwich.co.uk
CHRISTMAS COLLECTIONS GATINEAU GIFT SETS... FOR SOMEONE SPECIAL THIS CHRISTMAS PROTECT & SMOOTH HAND CARE
AGE BENEFIT EXCELLENCE
GIVE HARD-WORKING AND FRAGILE HANDS THE PERFECT GIFT THIS CHRISTMAS TO KEEP THEM SOFT, SUPPLE & YOUTHFUL.
GIVE THE ULTIMATE ‘GIFT OF YOUTH’ WITH THIS GLOBAL ANTI-AGING SKINCARE COLLECTION.
WORTH £26.45 OUR PRICE £20 SAVING £6.45
WORTH £213 OUR PRICE £79 SAVING £134
GENTLE SILK CLEANSING
AQUAMEMORY MOISTURE INFUSION A PERFECT WINTER-REVIVAL COLLECTION FOCUSING ON RESTORING HYDRATION.
A FUNDAMENTAL WINTER RADIANCE ROUTINE, CONTAINING ESSENTIAL PRODUCTS TO PREPARE AND LEAVE THE SKIN CLEANSED.
WORTH £99.94 OUR PRICE £37 SAVING £62.94
WORTH £53.57 OUR PRICE £27 SAVING £26.57
ONLY LIMITED SETS AVAILABLE, RESERVE YOUR GIFT SET BY CALLING BEAUTY PROFILE ON 01366 385917 OR VISIT OUR SALON. BEAUTY PROFILE, PARADISE ROAD, DOWNHAM MARKET. OPENING TIMES: TUES & FRI 9AM - 5PM, WED & THURS 9AM - 7.30PM, SAT 9AM - 4.30PM, SUN & MON CLOSED KLmagazine November 2013
FOR SENIOR CITIZENS 10% DISCOUNT
OFF
Offer applies to single treatments on Wednesdays & Fridays
01366 385917 THEBEAUTYPROFILE.CO.UK 43
CHRISTOPHER WILLIAM COUNTRY
Lings Country Goods for all your country pursuits
Purveyors of fine country wares
SCHÖFFEL | DUBARRY MUSTO | LE CHAMEAU CHRYSALIS | HUCKLECOTE TOGGI | DEERHUNTER SEELAND | HARKILA | ZOO
exciting autumn/winter ranges now in store & online!
Nestled in the heart of North Norfolk, our warm and welcoming shop houses a fantastic range of men’s and ladies country clothing, shooting wear, footwear, accessories, gifts and much more. Aigle | Alan Paine | Bisley | Dubarry | Gurteen | Hucklecote Laksen | LE Chameau | Loake | Magee | Musto | Toggi
Creake Abbey, North Creake, Fakenham NR21 9LF Telephone: 01328 738983 Web: www.christopherwilliamcountry.co.uk
Also stocking guns, ammunition and shooting accessories Heath Farm, Great Massingham, King’s Lynn, PE32 2HD www.lingscountrygoods.co.uk | www.mortonatv.com telephone: 01485 520828
Morton ATV all terrain and utility terrain vehicles
! 44
KLmagazine November 2013
Barbour at Goddards T
here are few brands as iconic as Barbour. Barbour remains a proudly English manufacturer, and is still a family-run business, producing an instantly-recognisable range of quality clothing from their base in the North East. Few brands manage to successfully appeal to so many people for so many reasons. From fields to fashion, the Barbour Autumn/Winter 2013 Collection covers everything from classic designs to contemporary styling. At Goddards in King’s Lynn, you’ll find a fantastic selection from the new collection – featuring quilted jackets and coats (including Barbour’s original classic wax jacket), casual shirts and knitwear, and a range of scarves and bags. “This is the biggest range of Barbour we’ve ever offered,” says Goddard’s Manager Gary Tillott. “It’s a real honour to be able to bring this world-famous brand with its emphasis on tradition, style and quality to our customers.” Perfectly at home in the countryside and ideally suited for the town, the new Barbour collection is a masterful blend of the traditional and the stylish. Brought to you locally by Goddards.
GODDARDS Wellesley Street, King’s Lynn PE30 1QD Menswear | 01553 772382 Ladies Fashions | 01553 777188 Formal Hire | 01553 772382 www.goddardsonline.co.uk KLmagazine November 2013
45
Firstly you must always implicitly obey orders, without attempting to form any opinion of your own regarding their propriety. Secondly, you must consider every man your enemy who speaks ill of your king â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and thirdly you must hate a Frenchman as you hate the devil...
56
KLmagazine November 2013
History
ABOVE: Nelson’s greatest moment – the Battle of Trafalgar – as painted on an epic scale by Clarkson Frederick Stanfield in 1836
Travelling in Nelson’s Norfolk footsteps... One of our greatest national heroes, Horatio Nelson was a sickly child from Burnham Thorpe who suffered from seasickness. KL magazine looks at his early life and his enduring love of Norfolk.
T
he Battle of Trafalgar took place on October 21st, 1805. Lasting only five hours, it sealed the fate of the 47year-old Horatio Nelson and guaranteed him a place in any list of Greatest Ever Englishmen. Monuments dedicated to him are dotted all over the country, and he’s given his name to cities and places around the world from New Zealand to Canada. His funeral on 9th January, 1806 saw a funeral procession of 32 admirals, over a hundred captains and an escort of some 10,000 soldiers take his coffin from the Admiralty to St Paul’s
KLmagazine November 2013
Cathedral, where – after a four-hour service – it was placed in a sarcophagus originally carved for Cardinal Wolsey. But Nelson’s story has a humble beginning in the narrow lanes of Norfolk’s own Burnham Thorpe, where he was born on September 29th, 1758 to the village parson and his wife. Although the official record says that Horatio (he actually preferred to be called Horace) was born in the Parsonage House of All Saints Church, there’s a local tradition that he was actually born in the fine brick and flint barn which runs adjacent to the village
inn. According to this scenario, Nelson’s mother had ventured out on a pony cart and was unable to manage the half mile or so back to the vicarage before young Horatio arrived – seven weeks prematurely. Whatever the truth of the matter, the church itself stands in a quiet spot away from the main village, and dates to the 13th century. It’s believed the hummocky fields surrounding the church are the result of villagers burning their houses during the Black Death. All Saints is a pretty little church, with some outstanding chequerwork flints on its eastern face. As you might
47
History expect, it’s steeped in On the death of Nelson history. Beyond Catherine Suckling, her the door, which bears the brother Maurice had notice ‘All who enter of promised he would get your charity pray latch one of the Nelson boys these doors lest a bird started on a naval career enter and die of thirst...’ when the time came. The you can see the Purbeck young Horatio never marble font in which forgot that promise, and Horatio was baptised when a crisis between within hours of his birth England and Spain over (he was very weak and not ownership of the Falklands expected to live.) arose in 1770, he saw it as Also take note of the an ideal opportunity. He rood cross and the begged his brother William lectern – they’re both to write to their father, made of timber from HMS asking him to contact their Victory. There’s also a uncle about taking him to fascinating contemporary sea. account of Nelson’s state Given that Horatio was funeral, and the crest of such a sickly child, the WWII battleship HMS Maurice took some Nelson, whose white convincing, but eventually ensigns are in the western he agreed and signed arch of the tower. Nelson up to the Navy on Just in front of the altar New Year’s Day, 1771. A are the graves of Nelson’s letter from the Navy Office parents. His mother died dated the following year, when Horatio was just requesting a reference for nine years old, his sister the young Horatio, is on Susannah later saying that display at the Museum in their mother had ‘bred King’s Lynn. herself to death’ – she Nelson never forgot his had 11 children. Nelson’s ‘beloved Burnham’ and he father died in 1802, and returned to live in the on the north chancel wall village with his wife Fanny, above his grave, there’s a whom he’d met in Antigua ABOVE: Nelson’s local – and the barn in which he was born, according to a bust of his famous son in 1785. He lived there, local tradition – at Burnham Thorpe (photo by John Warham) looking down. unemployed and restless, ‘official’ birthplace, which was sadly Wander around the churchyard and for five years before being appointed demolished three years before his you’ll find the graves of further captain of Agamemnon in 1793, death. It’s still possible to see the members of Nelson’s family, including following the revolutionary French frigate-shaped pond Nelson dug out in his brothers Maurice, Edmund, Suckling government’s declaration of war on the garden, and a small plaque marks (named for his mother’s family) and Great Britain. the outer wall. George, and the aforementioned That posting marked the turning As a boy, Horatio was briefly Susannah. point in the Captain Nelson’s career, educated at the Royal Grammar School Opposite the village green you’ll see and he began to establish himself as a in Norwich, but following the death of The Lord Nelson pub. It was originally brave and innovative commander. his mother he was transferred to the The Plough, and was renamed in However, despite his considerable honour of the local hero in 1807. Before Paston School in North Walsham (along travels and growing fame, he returned with his brother William) which had a taking up command of the ship to Norfolk as a newly-promoted Vice reputation as the best school in Agamemnon in February 1793, Nelson Admiral in March 1801, settling in Great Norfolk. (who was by then a young captain) Yarmouth. The town paid its own In addition to receiving a firm gave a farewell dinner at the inn. It’s homage to Nelson by erecting the very grounding in Latin and Greek at the thought he was a regular visitor to the first Nelson’s Column in 1819 – 20 school, it’s confidently stated that the pub, and used the upstairs room to years before the one in Trafalgar young Horatio took sailing lessons on meet his crew before setting sail. Square. The column isn’t topped by nearby Barton Broad. The fact his sister The pub – which quite rightly styles Nelson, but by Britannia, who stands Catherine lived at Barton Hall with her itself ‘Nelson’s local’ – still has plenty of gazing towards the northwest – the husband gives some credence to this atmosphere, and features original direction of Burnham Thorpe, the story, but even this early exposure to settles and charmingly uneven stone birthplace of England’s greatest naval sailing didn’t prevent Nelson suffering floors. It’s full of Nelson-related hero. from seasickness – which he had to artefacts and even serves up its very cope with throughout his naval career. own Nelson’s Blood – a unique blend Relics from Nelson’s schooldays are of 100 proof Navy Rum with a secret still held at the school (now Paston blend of herbs and spices. College) and the room in which he was About half a mile out of the village is educated still exists. the lane leading to the site of Nelson’s
48
KLmagazine November 2013
-.%)$ *0",- *# ..*,)"1 ,"+ , .%*) *# %''*/,. *# ,*." .%*) "+/.1 ++'% .%*),* ." !(%)%-., .%*) %'' -. ." %-+/."-
-
*).
. %(*)
*.. *) *, "( %'
-%(*) - *.. ( + ' 0 * /& #*, (*," %)#*,( .%*) ".
'#"
*+"( ) "
&! % $$$
$
"
".."# ,
Jane (above) and her team of qualified teachers have worked in schools in West Norfolk and offer tailored after school tuition classes for children aged five and above who may be struggling with school work, want to boost their grades, need extra help preparing for up and coming exams or want to get into a specific school.
Contact Jane today to discuss your child's needs and visit our education centre Jane Murray, Centre Director Units 5-6 Castle Yard, Wesleyan Lodge Mews, High Street, Downham Market, PE38 9HF
# #
KLmagazine November 2013
!
!
$ !!
###
!
"
#
!
49
A TRADITIONAL PUB WITH TRADITIONAL FOOD
Great deals on great food! THE ANGEL CARVERY Thursdays 12noon–2pm & Sundays 12noon–3pm Booking advisable STEAK NIGHT Mondays, Tuesdays & Wednesdays PIE NIGHT Monday nights only £7 and includes a drink Outside catering for weddings, business functions, etc Function room available Large car park Childrens play area Food served 7 days a week (excluding Monday lunch)
WHAT’S ON Monthly Quiz Nights (every 2nd Monday of the month at 7.30pm) Poker Nights every Wednesday at 8pm
CURRY NIGHT Thursday nights only £7 and includes a drink SENIOR CITIZENS 2-COURSE LUNCHES Tuesdays to Fridays: only £8.50 (note: Carvery on Thursdays) LUNCHTIME SPECIAL On Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday. Soup, sandwich or a wrap only £6 and includes a drink
CATERING FOR ALL TASTES
With top quality ingredients and a home cooking style, we have the perfect menu for you.
NEW RESTAURANT MENU CHILDREN'S MENU SPECIALS MENU VEGETARIAN MENU WINE MENU
CHRISTMAS PARTY NIGHTS 6th, 13th & 20th December £25pp including disco. Also Christmas lunch, evening and lunchtime meals. For Boxing Day and New year's day lunchtime buffet is available. Book early to avoid disappointment!
Find us on Facebook 41 School Road, Watlington, King’s Lynn, Norfolk, PE33 0HA
tel: 01 55 3 8 1 1 3 2 6 | we b : w w w. t h ea n g el p u b. we b s. com
'&
"! "! &&&
50
'&
!& $
'& # !%
"
$
$
!" ! # ! !
50 KLmagazine November 2013
Caley Hall Hotel – perfect for Christmas, ideal any time of the year! From intimate meals to special events and family-sized occasions, Caley Hall Hotel in Old Hunstanton is perfect...
S
et in a wonderful location at Old Hunstanton, family-run Caley Hall Hotel offers a successful blend of friendly, personal service, high professional standards and close attention to detail. The converted stables and outbuildings of the 17th century manor house make an ideal base from which to enjoy and explore this lovely part of Norfolk. The charming bar and lounge area is the perfect place to unwind and relax – you can call in for a quiet morning coffee by the fire, enjoy a spot of lunch or settle down with a nice bottle of wine with some friends in the evening. The hotel’s restaurant is open seven
KLmagazine November 2013
days a week to non-residents and comfortably seats 80 people – from large family-sized tables to intimate settings for two. Head Chef Amos Burrows creates an outstanding menu with seasonal ingredients and locallysourced produce. It comes as no surprise to learn the restaurant’s been awarded an AA Rosette for fine dining. With Christmas fast approaching, Caley Hall Hotel is perfect for your preChristmas celebrations – or join the hotel’s Christmas Party Night on 20th December for a special 3-course meal and disco. For more details and information on Caley Hall Hotel and for sample menus, please visit the website or call the hotel to make a booking.
i
details
CALEY HALL HOTEL Old Hunstanton Road, Old Hunstanton Norfolk PE36 6HH Tel: 01485 533486 Web: www.caleyhallhotel.co.uk
51
Food & Drink
It’s time for parsnips P
woody), but small ones can be left whole or cut into lengths or chunks.
CHOOSING... Parsnips are available all year, but they’re at their best in midwinter. After a frost, the starch is converted to sugar, which highlights the sweetness. They should be small and firm. Don’t buy parsnips with lots of whiskers or brown patches – they may be rotten inside. Allow 500g for four people.
COOKING... You can either roast parsnips to bring out their sweetness, or boil and transform them into a creamy mash. To boil, cut into chunks and put in a pan with a little salt. Cover with boiling water, bring back to the boil and cook (covered) for 15-20 minutes until they’re tender. To roast parsnips, heat a few tablespoons of olive oil in a roasting tin at 180o for five minutes. Peel the parsnips, cut them into thickish long sticks and toss them in the oil. Roast for 40-55 minutes, shaking the pan occasionally until the parsnips are tender and golden.
arsnips are a favourite winter vegetable, and have been used since ancient times. The Romans even allowed the Germans to pay part of their tribute in parsnips, although there’s some confusion in the early literature between parsnips and carrots – which were white or purple in those days.
STORING... It’s best to store your parsnips in a perforated plastic bag in the vegetable drawer of the fridge for up to a week. PREPARING... Trim off both ends, peel thinly with a vegetable peeler or sharp knife and cut into even-sized chunks. If the parsnips are older and larger, you may need to cut out the central core (it may be
52
SERVING... Serve boiled parsnips with butter, salt and pepper, a pinch of grated nutmeg and some grated Parmesan. With mashed parsnips, try adding a little cream, horseradish sauce and fresh thyme. GOOD FOR YOU... Parsnips are a good source of folate, niacin, vitamin E and potassium.
KLmagazine November 2013
Time Tim T ime mee for f ra fo Cha Ch Change ha ang gee off Pace! Pa P cce! A healthy diet should include at least 2 portions of fish a week, taste and feel the benefits from your local supplier. Brancaster mussels Dressed crabs and lobsters New seasons game Local shellfish Fresh and smoked fish Brancaster oysters Hand-carved ham on the bone Free range eggs
D
Extensive delicatessen counter with top quality Norfolk cheeses and olives from home and abroad!
NALDS
The Th The he Har Hare H Ha are ar re Bar Barr
&
Bu Bustling Bus ussttli t ing tl g with ith th h bright b g and an nd friendly nd ri dly dly ly Bar Ba ar banter, ban ba ntter,, the th he homely h ho homel home ely y atmosphere a atm at atmosph tm tmosph mosp ph heere h ere uni u ique qu q ue decor ue e r welco welcome o e you om ome you to yo to a unique and grab a bite g grab tee amongst mo m ongs o on ngst gst the gst thee ‘thick th ‘‘tthick ‘th thic th hick ck k off it’! itt’!! it it’
The The Th h To T Tortoise Tort ortoise or rto tois ttoi toise oisisise isee Room Ro R Roo oooom m new n ly ly refurbished furbished u bis ish heed dining h d ing ng g Our Ou O ur newly is d des de designed esig igned igne g ed d with with wit i h your yo our ur arrea a are area ea is relax re relaxation xati x xation tio on o n in mind. m nd. d
NS
Austin Fields, King’s Lynn | Tel: 01553 772241 OPEN: Tues/Wed 7am-4pm, Thurs/Fri 7am-5pm, Sat 7am-3pm
KLmagazine November 2013
Nooow N Now wO Open Ope Op Open! pen! ppe en! en n n!
01366 382229 Stow Bardolph www.theharearms.co.uk Follow us on Facebook..... Facebook.....
53
Food & Drink
INGREDIENTS For the custard: 70g Egg yolks 300g Double cream 15g Sugar 100g Brie de Meaux (or similar) 1g Salt For the pickled grapes: ½ Bunch of red grapes 200g red wine 50g Red wine vinegar Juice of ½ a lemon 1 Star anise 1 Sprig of tarragon 50g Sugar 2g Salt 25ml Pernod For the celery: 2 Sticks of Celery Leaves from the Celery Micro celery leaves For the red grape pate de fruits: 500g Red grape purée 14g Pectin 14g Citric acid 620g Sugar
Recipe by Eric Snaith Head Chef, Titchwell Manor Hotel 01485 210221 www.titchwellmanor.com
54
Brie de Meaux Custard with red grape and celery METHOD 1 For the custard, place all of the ingredients in a Thermomix and cook for 10mins, 90oc on speed 3 (the eggs should be cooked as for a crème brulee). If you don’t have a Thermomix, cook as you would for custard in a heavy saucepan over a low heat. When cooked, pass through a fine mesh sieve and set in the fridge on small plates or small bowls. 2 For the semi-dry pickled grapes, remove the grapes from the stems, holding a few back for final presentation. Combine all other ingredients and bring to the boil, pour over the grapes and allow to marinade in the fridge for 12 hours. Drain and dry the grapes in a dehydrator at 80o for 8 hours. 3 For the red grape pate de fruits, mix the pectin with 20g of sugar, warm the grape purée in a large saucepan, add the pectin mix (while whisking to incorporate), add the remaining sugar and cook to 108o. Take off the heat and add the citric acid, working quickly pour into a parchment-lined deep baking tray. Set in the fridge. 4 For the celery, pick down the leaves and keep in water, cut the celery into small batons. 5 To serve, caramelise the custard with sugar and a blowtorch, as if making a crème brulee. Place two small cubes of pate de fruits, two celery batons, two leaves and a sprig of micro celery on top and finish with two slices of fresh grape.
This has become a bit of a signature dish (depending on how you define signature dish!) but it’s certainly been in and around the menu for the past few years. Out of 10 people, usually six of them love it and see it as the best dish of the night, three like it and find it interesting, and there’s always someone who doesn’t know quite what to think! Whatever their opinion, it does always seem to get people talking.
KLmagazine November 2013
Beautiful Bespoke
on display.
at an excellent price.
' +& $( +%
,
#
* #*
! """) "
#
)
This outstanding 18th Century coaching inn stands at the head of the village green and prides itself on being the hub of the village. Delicious seasonal food is freshly prepared from locally sourced farmers and fishermen. A carefully chosen wine list, a fine selection of real ales and charming bedroom suites make this an ideal location for an overnight stay or longer break.
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing drink, celebration venue or weekend away, The Crown Inn is a perfect destination. Call us today to make a restaurant or hotel booking.
Full F ull of Curiosi-teas 01485 528530 | www.crowninnnorfolk.co.uk The Crown Inn, The Green, East Rudham, Norfolk, PE31 8RD
KLmagazine November 2013
and wonderful tr rea ea ats to sa avour WWW.F WWW.FOLLYTEAROOM.CO.UK OLLYTEA ROOM.CO.UK
55
Food & Drink
RestaurantReview
KL magazine visits the Crown Inn at East Rudham...
S
ince I learned it was no longer under the umbrella of the Flying Kiwi Inns, I was really interested in discovering how the Crown Inn had adapted to its new-found independence. Its prominent (and convenient) position at the head of East Rudham’s village green makes for a charming exterior, but the interior really is something special. Combining traditional period features with stunning modern-day touches, the Crown offers a very warm (and equally friendly) welcome. The low-level lighting is particularly effective, and adds to the relaxed and comfortable atmosphere. Arriving early on a Saturday evening, it was good to see plenty of diners already arriving
(booking is a must) and we were treated to a genuinely warm welcome before being shown to a lovely candlelit window seat. While I tucked into a delightful plate of Butternut Squash and Courgette Fritters (accompanied by a delicious feta and cucumber salad with preserved lemon), my partner ordered the Seafood Linguine with razor clams and squid. This was quite outstanding, with a generous ratio of (expertly-cooked) pasta to shellfish and plenty of truly first-class prawns. Although the main courses were hard to beat, the Crown Inn Cheeseboard we then shared (consisting of Copy’s Cloud, Binham Blue and Lincolnshire Poacher, together with some great homemade chutney) was perfect. All the food was beautifully presented, and the portions were very generous – the Crown offers really excellent value for money. FOOD SERVICE VALUE Rounded off with a pint of Adnams Old Ale (there’s always four real ales on tap) and a glass of Saint Chinian full-bodied red wine, our meal was simply superb. THE CROWN INN So now I’ve discovered the The Green, East Rudham, Norfolk PE31 8RD Crown. And all I want to do Tel: 01485 528530 now is go back for more! Web: www.crowninnnorfolk.co.uk
9
56
10
10 10 10 10
KLmagazine November 2013
//+ /6 /1 )1*23-"2
CaféReview
)1*23-"2 "7
&3 )/,% /' /41 /' )1*23-"2 "7 &.4 *3) " %&,*$*/42 "15&17 ".% 4.%&1 2 &"3 '1&& 8 0& 1 0 !/4 $".93 "' '/1% &12/ . 3/ -*22 /43
T
here’s very little you won’t find at Fakenham Garden Centre. This friendly, family-run business has absolutely everything you could need for your garden (including a landscaping and design service) as well as a marvellous pets and aquatics department, a great range of giftwear, and – at this time of year – a brilliant Christmas display. What you may not realise is that Fakenham Garden Centre also has a very commendable cafe. Although it’s officially called the Coffee Shop, it’s actually an ideal place to stop off for lunch – whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a filling hot meal. It’s also open for breakfast from 911.30am. I was surprised at just how much space there is in the cafe (there’s enough seating for 80 people), but a lot of thought and care has gone into the layout. It’s comfortable and relaxing, and it’s very light. There was a huge choice of food on offer when we arrived for lunch – a specials board (that changes daily), a lovely selection of freshly-made sandwiches, and a delightful range of truly tempting homemade cakes and sponges. I enjoyed a very generously-sized bacon and brie ciabatta, which contained plenty of rocket for a refreshing peppery taste and was served with crisps and a side salad. Both the bread and the brie were noticeably fresh. My friend opted for a cheese scone. A humble choice, you might think, but it was deliciously fresh, large and packed with cheese – it really did tick all the boxes on the cheese scone checklist. We had a traditional blend from the range of speciality teas available and a fresh coffee, and completed our lunch by sharing a wonderful portion of Walnut Frangipan Pie – the best bits of which were the thick layer of walnuts and the lovely crisp base. The cafe at Fakenham Garden Centre really can’t be faulted – it’s children friendly, wheelchair friendly, and it’s open seven days a week. Needless to say, we’ll be back for some more very soon! FAKENHAM GARDEN CENTRE Mill Road, Hempton, Fakenham, Norfolk NR21 7LH Telephone: 01328 863380 Web: www.fakenhamgardencentre.co.uk
KLmagazine November 2013
&.4
41 3)&1 &23*5& &.42 *.$,4%& &23*5& &"23
&.4
/412&2 '/1 8 5"*,"#,& /.%"7 '1/0-
)412%"7
/412&2 '/1 8 5"*,"#,& /.%"7 )412%"7 0- /.6"1%2 1*%"7 4.%"7 ! 5"*,"#,& '1/3) /5&-#&1 3) &$&-#&1
1&"+'"23 6*3) ".3" &,&$3&% 6&&+&.%2 3)1/4()/43 &$&-#&1
/.3"$3 42 '/1 %&3"*,2 ,&.$)6"13/. /"% 7.. *.(92 7..
&23
&, 57
56
KLmagazine November 2013
Local Life
ABOVE: Mark Riches, whose Beeston Brewery continues to produce a superb range of great-tasting and award-winning local beers
Continuing the tradition of great Norfolk beer... Mark Riches started brewing in 2006, and his great range of locally-produced beers have won a host of well-deserved awards. KL magazine meets the man behind Beeston Brewery
S
omething rather odd is happening to beer in Britain at the moment. While pubs continue to close at an alarming rate and sales of mainstream brands continue to slump, locally-made and crafted beers are becoming more popular by the day. Over the last twelve months almost 200 microbreweries opened their doors, taking the national number well over the 1,000 mark. Norfolk has a particularly long and proud tradition of beer and brewing. The climate is very conducive to the growing of malting barley (it’s been produced here for over 400 years) and
KLmagazine November 2013
the groundwater in Norfolk is ideal. Our homegrown beers are quite rightly held in high esteem, and our brewers are well deserving of their many awards. Which brings us quite nicely to Mark Riches, whose Beeston Brewery is based at a lovingly-restored old farmhouse right in the centre of the county and produces a superb line-up of locally-produced, award-winning and great-tasting beers. It comes as something of a surprise to learn that not so long ago, Mark could have written everything he knew about brewing on the back of a beer mat. “I was becoming disillusioned with
being an employee,” he says. “I really enjoyed my job, but I wanted to do something for myself. Something that would give me a sense of fulfillment when it came to retiring.” Although starting a brewery was only one of the ideas he investigated, Mark realised he was in the ideal spot. “I didn’t know anything about brewing, but I saw that the triangle formed by Swaffham, Dereham and Fakenham was something of a desert in that respect. It was the perfect location for a genuinely local brewery serving the local area.” Mark proceeded to study brewing at Sunderland University, worked at some
59
Local Life
ABOVE: Beeston Brewery’s Mark Riches with his wife Carole (left) and James Boston
breweries in Northumberland, and started the conversion of an old farmhouse. Beeston Brewery was born. “From the outset, it was important to keep everything as local as possible,” he says. “I wanted the man driving the tractor or the one delivering the malt to be the same man who was enjoying the beer at the end of the day.” Although it does – unavoidably – have a few suppliers from outside Norfolk, Beeston Brewery has managed to combine its success with a local, family-run outlook. The water is drawn straight from the Norfolk chalk deep below the brewery itself, the malt is grown and crushed on Branthill Farm near Wells (“this coastal climate produces some of the best malting barley on the planet,” says Mark) and it’s malted at Crisp Maltings just outside Fakenham. Mark started brewing in 2006, perfecting and refining a brew he’d developed at university. Owing its name to the persistent questioning of a local landlord about its progress, the brewery’s debut beer was the delightful and aptly-named Worth the Wait (4.2% ABV). It was a particularly impressive debut, and was judged Overall Winner of the 2007 Norwich Beer Festival. Mark may have been a relative newcomer to the trade, but every addition to the brewery’s line-up seemed to require an extra space in the trophy cabinet. The mild Squirrel’s Nuts
60
(3.5% ABV) won a silver medal at the Norwich Beer Festival in 2009, the silky black Old Stoatwobbler (6% ABV) won a Gold Medal in its class in 2011, and the toasty Bloomers (4% ABV) topped that by becoming the joint Overall Gold Medal Winner at last year’s festival. There’s no sign of the brewery’s success stopping any time soon either. This year, Beeston Brewery’s smooth and full-bodied On the Huh (5% ABV) – brewed with Mark’s father in mind – was voted Champion Strong Bitter of Britain 2013 at CAMRA’s Great British Beer Festival. Mark is justifiably proud of his – and his small team’s – achievement. “I can’t think of a better job,” he says. “We’ve got a nice lifestlye, and we’re not overly stressed. It’s so rewarding dealing with people who show a genuine interest and appreciation for your beer. We pride ourselves on producing and selling a good product – and it’s clear people understand what we’re trying to do.” If you haven’t sampled any of Mark’s beer yet, you’ll find it’s (to coin a phrase) well worth the wait – and there’s no better way of getting yourself (and all your friends and family) acquainted with it it than to inivite Beeston Brewery to your next big event, where they’ll work with outside caterers to provide some genuine local taste. For details, visit the website at www.beestonbrewery.co.uk.
KLmagazine November 2013
KLmagazine November 2013
59
Discover one of the best spots to drink, eat or sleep on the North Norfolk coast! We are proud to offer the very best in locally sourced produce. Presented with a warm and welcoming service we tailor for each of our customers creating bespoke breakfasts and accommodating every palate.
Bespoke Christmas Party Menus - we can cater for all your requirements to ensure you have a great evening! New Years Eve Menu - full details on our website.
The Duck Inn, Burnham Road, Stanhoe, King’s Lynn, Norfolk, PE31 8QD 01485 518330 | www.duckinn.co.uk info@duckinn.co.uk
4
! ,! )*1 . &%)# **&%)#"*, $,%-.( - + ,.%!$,%-.( 2 !1 ! ,52 **& ! ,'2 .* 0*% %- ++*%).(!).
- Morning Coffee - Lunch - Afternoon Tea - Dinner -
Winner of ‘Best Restaurant & Pub Dining’ - Eastern Daily Press Norfolk Food & Drink Awards 2013 3 AA Rosettes • EDP Chef of the Year 2012
Titchwell Manor Hotel Titchwell Near Brancaster North Norfolk PE31 8BB
62
01485 210 221 margaret@titchwellmanor.com www.titchwellmanor.com Follow on Twitter @titchwellmanor
*%) /- "*, ., /) 2 ,* -.
! )!-
111 '
%.%*) '
2
+ ))
./,
2
%3
KLmagazine November 2013
Christmas
The humble origins of your Christmas feast... Turkeys, mince pies, coin-filled puddings, nuts and tangerines are all part of our festive celebrations – but how did these foods become so associated with Christmas? KL magazine finds out.
T
here are certain foods without which it simply wouldn’t be Christmas – a delicious roast turkey (or goose), a fruit-filled Christmas cake complete with marzipan and icing, satsumas, chestnuts, mulled wine, mince pies... but why? What’s so special about these things? During the rest of the year, many of these foods aren’t eaten at all. Why are they so firmly embedded in our Christmas celebrations? Surprisingly, to find the answer we have to go back to a time when there was no Christmas at all. In the pre-Christian era, one of the most important dates of the year was the shortest day, which is usually around the 21st or 22nd of December. People celebrated the event by encouraging light back to the world – an idea which was no doubt influenced
KLmagazine November 2013
by a general lack of understanding regarding planetary movements and seasonal cycles. To watch the days growing shorter and darker without the knowledge they’d ever be coming back must have been quite intimidating. As the shortest day gained in importance, fires were lit as a way of encouraging the year to turn. When the effects of this ‘magic’ were visible (which would have been around the 25th December) a huge feast would be eaten to celebrate its success. So, well before Christianity arrived, this time of year was celebrated by a great deal of feasting. No wonder the early Church adopted the existing festivities (sometime in the 3rd century) to encourage people to convert to Christianity – it was a lot easier for the people to accept a festival that coincided with one they’d been celebrating anyway!
Of course, organising a huge feast in the middle of winter took some planning (you think it’s difficult now!) but it was helped by the recent slaughter of animals, which took place in early November – for the purely practical reason that feeding animals throughout the winter was costly. To save the costs of feed, many older animals – past their best and unlikely to be profitable in the future – would be slaughtered as winter set in, providing a sudden increase in fresh meat that was also easier to store thanks to the cold weather. Quite when turkeys became the accepted Christmas centrepiece isn’t at all certain. They were certainly available from the 1700s and were eaten widely, being ‘shod’ before being walked to market. The birds were walked through tar, and then through fine grit – creating ‘shoes’ for the long walk to
63
Christmas
The Christmas pudding was stuffed with dried fruit and the peel of citrus fruits – the latter of which was such a precious item that nothing was wasted, not even the peel...
market. The same technique was used for geese – another traditional Christmas bird. But before the arrival of turkeys and geese, the favourite Christmas dish was brawn. Now, we tend to think of brawn as being distinctly unpleasant, containing only the brains of a pig or sheep, but brawn was actually considered to be a tasty delicacy and was made with more than just the brains. We aren’t used to eating offal nowadays, but it was common in the past – partly because it was cheap, but mostly because it simply tasted so good. Brawn is essentially the head of the animal (pig or sheep) boiled until the meat falls from the bone – and much of that meat is very good, especially the cheek meat. Existing recipes differ on whether to include the eyes or not – for some people, the eyes were the best bit. Either way, the brains needed to be removed first as they’re not suitable for prolonged boiling) – they were delicately poached and added back to the rest later. The whole mixture, together with onions and other vegetables, was then preserved in jelly or aspic. It all sounds a bit grim, but brawn was a usual part of
64
the Christmas feast right up until Victorian times. As Christmas developed into such an important feast, every luxury item was saved up for it, and seasonal food was used as well to create a suitably impressive spread. Luxuries such as sugar cones and imported dried fruits were carefully put aside, and seasonal items such as the variety of nuts available during the Autumn were also harvested and stored for the forthcoming feast. Many of these items were used for the pudding and the cake. The Christmas pudding was stuffed with dried fruit and the peel of citrus fruits – the latter of which was such a precious item that nothing was wasted, not even the peel. Making candied peel is time consuming and involves sugar, which was also expensive. And both the pudding and cake needed spices (such as mace) which were also luxury items for many years. To make candied peel in the oldfashioned way, you need ground ginger – which was also very expensive. Our modern version of this luxury is probably the satsuma, which is now available all year round but is traditionally associated with Christmas as a luxury item.
The Christmas pudding, which was originally steamed in a cloth, seems to be a particularly English invention, and there’s long been a tradition of including coins in the mixture which would be found by whoever was eating it. Naturally, this made the pudding even more expensive. Which coins and what denomination to include seems to vary – according to some authorities it should be a silver coin, but since the last ones were minted in 1948 it’s a tradition that’s not possible today (neither is the inclusion of a threepenny bit or a sixpence). There was also a tradition that the coins shouldn’t be stirred into the pudding mixture by the cook – possibly to prevent them being stolen, but probably to ensure no one knew exactly where they were in the finished pudding. In addition to coins and expensive spices, both cake and pudding traditionally included the addition of brandy, which was a very expensive item. To make the pudding even more spectacular as it arrived at the table, brandy would be poured over it and set alight – the brandy evaporated off fairly quickly, but it was a great way of demonstrating that no expense had been spared in its creation.
KLmagazine November 2013
! "
&
!% "
(
'
& #
!
& !
&
!
"
! !
$! " Are you looking for a venue that can be tailored to suit your individual requirements? Abacus Marquees provides both high quality frame marquees and traditional pole marquees, and have a wide range of furniture and accessories – including black Starcloth linings and Moroccan linings. If this sounds like your ideal solution for your prestigious event, then Abacus Marquees with their excellent service and competitive prices, can make it happen to help you create the perfect occasion.
Transform your garden into a fabulous venue Call today on 01328 701331 | www.abacusmarquees.co.uk
$$$
"
%
" ! %
!
%
% !
$
Chalk Farm, Druids Lane, Litcham, King’s Lynn, Norfolk, PE32 2YA
LUXURY WITHOUT SACRIFICE TO THE ENVIRONMENT
strattons hotel with Self catering, Restaurantt & Café deli
""#
)*% (!
' #*)' )*#)&%
$&&"*+
KLmagazine November 2013
&%
"&
*%", & "
"&
, ,$)( ) !
"&
*%", & "
"&
*'+
The Restaurant from 6.30pm. Open every evening from Sunday Lunch fr om 12 to 2.30pm from Now taking Christmas party and New Y Year’ ear’s Eve bookings. Year’s Functions, celebrations, gr oup gatherings group erings and business meetings. atu Lunch by arrangement Monday to Satur Saturday.
d art..... to sta ecan an asted P ih Pearr,, Ro e salad wit lu l B 6.95 V Binham ressing £ celeriac rd dre mustard ian, T b ra C ith Cromer salad and lime w e, remoulad ing £7.95 ss dre... ains ney hom Fillet Stea ak k Sandwic i h wiith CoCoes café deli boozy onio h ns, tomatoe Saturday, Open Monday to Satur day d y, fully licensed. cense s and mustard rd mayo, o ch hunky chip T apas night on the first Wednesday Wednesday Tapas £19 pss snack Coffee, cakes, teas, snacks, of every month. Coffee, Se S a Bass, braised fenn produce. lunches, take away and local produce. el crumble, ne w potatoes , acid butter £18 T elephone 01760 723845 Telephone Swaffham Ash Close, Swaffham to finish... e, salted ee enquiries@strattonshotel.com enquiries@strattonshotel.com offffe To £6 Sticky T lla ice cream ni va , el caram a hed poac e, e ifl T Tr rb huba Rh , rhubarb ongemeal. receive a free free bottle of houserh Quote ‘KLMAG’ to receive wine b, spyour ubarwith cream, ard, st cu One bottle per table & booking, excludes NYE, V alentines, Easter & Mothers Day , minimum Valentines, Day, lla ni va sorbet, sorre , of 2 courses must be taken by all table & booking. Usual terms & conditions apply . l £8 apply. ds on m al candied
65
Christmas The convention of having a sprig of holly on top of the pudding pre-dates the pudding itself. At Christmas, evergreen plants would be brought into the house to remind everyone of the spring to come – and reminding them there was still life, even in the depths of winter. Holly and ivy were written about in connection with Christmas from very early on (the famous carol about the two was certainly current in the 1400s). The Christmas tree, of course, is a German tradition that came to the country with Prince Albert and caught on quickly after a drawing was published showing the Royal Family round a decorated tree. As for mince pies (love them or hate them), it will come as a shock to learn that eating them at Christmas has probably been illegal for more than 350 years. Back in 1657, Oliver Cromwell’s ‘reign’ as Lord Protector was coming to an end, and his puritan council decided to abolish Christmas – it was seen as a pagan festival because it wasn’t officially sanctioned in the Bible. Christmas also offended the puritans because it encouraged people to overindulge in rich food and alcoholic drink, so they consequently banned the consumption of anything that suggested gluttony – and that included mince pies along with Christmas pudding. Following Cromwell’s death a year later (and the restoration of the monarchy), the law was generally disregarded – but according to the Law Society it has never been officially repealed. The humble mince pie, therefore, remains technically illegal as a Christmas treat. Whatever their legal disposition, mince pies have been around since medieval times and have been associated with Christmas since the 16th century (if not earlier). The original was a large oblong or oval pastry containing chopped meats and spices such as ginger. Dried fruit and other sweet ingredients were added to the filling – not just for a touch of luxury, but because they helped preserve the meat without having to salt or smoke it. Since those early days, mince pies have shrunk, their shape has changed, the proportion of fruit has increased and the meat has been replaced by suet – which in turn is now being replaced by solid vegetable fats, making them cheaper and acceptable to vegetarians. The mince pie’s association with Christmas is said to have started when
66
As for mince pies (love them or hate them), it will come as a shock to learn that eating them at Christmas has probably been illegal for more than 350 years... KLmagazine November 2013
NOW OPEN " $
%$
&%
%! !# ! ' (
)
# "
$
$ !#
% $
- Indoor, Outdoor & LED Christmas Lights - Life-size Father Christmas - Animations - Artificial & Fibre Optic Christmas Trees - Real Christmas Trees (available early December) - Christmas Village Scenes
49 Hunstanton Road, Dersingham, Kingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Lynn PE31 6NA Telephone: 01485 541514 Open from 8-6 daily
&-&. +/, -%+0,++) .+ -"" +/, +.%", $,"!. +##",- +* 4-
+ & " #$ ( %" ' !! # " '$ # +# ( * ' + & #! # ( %" !! # " & "( #$ $ !! # $ !%" # # & " )
! 3 /(( &$&.!(
2
" *(1
'''
+0", .,"". &*$4- 1** KLmagazine November 2013
! "
#
%
+,#+(' 67
Christmas
There’s a lot more to your Christmas dinner than you may have thought you’re literally tucking into a history that goes back hundreds of years
people thought the sunken middle of the large original pies resembled the manger in which the newborn Jesus was placed. Tradition also says a mince pie should contain cinnamon, cloves and nutmeg to represent the three gifts brought by the three wise men, and should be topped with a star-shaped trimming of pastry to represent the star of Bethlehem. As for that delicious Christmas cake with its traditional marzipan layer (arguably the best bit!) any cake decorator worth their salt will tell you that working with icing directly onto a cake’s surface is very difficult indeed. Consequently, a layer of marzipan between the cake and the icing provides a smooth surface and makes the job a whole lot easier. It will come as no surprise to learn that marzipan is another luxury item, made from ground almonds and sugar. The simple reason nuts are so firmly associated with Christmas is that they were a recent harvest from Autumn, so were carefully kept aside for the festivities. Chestnuts were a favourite ingredient for making ‘stuff’ for the Christmas bird, along with strongly flavoured herbs such as Thyme and Sage to add flavour.
68
Which brings us to the bird itself. Although we have the impression that a free-range, corn-fed bird is quite expensive, it’s important to remember that in times gone by it wasn’t a matter of choice or ethics – all poultry would be fed on corn and lead a free-range life. Spit-roast meat always tastes better than oven-cooked meat, and this may well be why those ingenious Victorians came up with a device called a Bottle Jack, which was a clockwork device from which the cook suspended the oven-ready bird. It would slowly spin the bird, one way and then the other, in front of the heat from the range. Another device called a ‘hastener’ could be added to this contraption, a simple piece of metal which stood behind the cooking bird and reflected heat back towards the fire, so the constantlyturning bird was cooked from both sides, as though on a spit. If you’ve ever thought turkey is a dry meat, you really should try some of these old cooking methods – during the 19th century, it was said across Europe that the British really knew how to roast meat properly. As you may have gathered by now, the origins of mulled wine are also
grounded in the idea of luxury since it requires expensive spices to make, but it’s also practical. As a hot drink designed to be served in cold weather, it must have been very gratefully received by guests arriving on a bitterly cold day. So that’s where your Christmas food comes from – partly from practicalities, partly from religion, and mostly from a time when the whole festival was about encouraging the light to return. This is all very neatly (and nicely) summed up in a tradition recording the origins of tinsel. According to the story, when the Holy Family were fleeing from Herod, they hid in a cave. During the night, a spider created a web across the entrance of the cave, so Herod’s soldiers assumed no one could be in there and left the cave alone. That holy spider web was turned into silver, and our modern tinsel represents it. Whatever the truth of the matter, there’s a lot more to your Christmas dinner than you may have thought. You’re literally tucking into a history that goes back hundreds of years – so whether you’re sampling the luxuries of fruit peel and spices or running the risk of being arrested for eating mince pies, enjoy it. Even the sprouts.
KLmagazine November 2013
Now shop online intuchapelfield.co.uk
Enjoy over 80 fantastic shops, cafés and restaurants in the heart of Norwich open o pen u until ntil 77pm pm* tthroughout hroughout N November ovember (9pm on Thursdays). With so much choice that’s Christmas wrapped up!
We’re open ‘til *Except Sundays 11am - 5pm
pm
Bespoke Kitchens, Furniture & Expert Joiners With over 25 years experience in cabinet making and joinery, we offer a range of high quality joinery services including Individually designed & handmade luxury kitchens in the style of your choice, using materials both beautiful and functional.
The luxury of a handmade kitchen designed, built & fitted just for you.
Superior handmade furniture. Top-quality purpose made joinery.
If you have any questions or would like further information call us today
01263 712345 www.mcfurniture.co.uk The Great Barn, Heath Farm, Hempstead Road, Holt NR25 6JU
!
!
#
"
!&
! ! "
$ $
#
!
!! & " %
!
#
!! "
--- +$&)%. $',"*$(*+ (&
70
+ %"+
+$&)%. $',"*$(*+ (&
(*,# '!
!
!
$+ " #
# & +
KLmagazine November 2013
Christmas
Secrets of dressing your home for Christmas... It’s time to start thinking about your festive decor, but don’t simply dust off last year’s tinsel and stick everything else on the tree. Here’s a few tips on creating a fabulous festive interior.
T
here’s no better place to start your Christmas interior than with the tree. You can give a freshly-cut pine on the side of the road a new lease of life or take your pick from the mess-free models in the stores. You’ll find plenty of traditional options among the articial trees for sale, but keep an eye out for more creative styles. If you want a change from a threedimensional tree or are short on space, there are some really effective fabric
KLmagazine November 2013
wallprint ‘trees’ available at the moment. You could use these in any room – they look great by your front door to welcome guests in with a bit of wow factor. When the festive season ends, you just peel them off and store safely ready to use again next year. If you just want to make a minimalist nod to Christmas, stylised contemporary trees are perfect as festive displays, while wooden advent calendar trees double as a cute place to store lollies, small presents or a
Christmas message. String lights through your tree’s branches before hanging your decorations, placing baubles to hide the lights’ wires, adding to the sense of magic. Decorating a tree is a very serious business for some. There are family heirlooms to hang, and strict colourways to be adhered to. Some people will only allow a certain number of items on the tree, while others insist on displaying a collection of decorations from the past 50 years. The best looks will come from simply
71
Christmas adding what’s important to you. Children will have their own ideas, of course, and want to hang their latest school creations (which might not be the prettiest items) but try to resist the urge to keep the tree ‘tidy’ – your children will only bring handmade decorations home for a few years, and their efforts deserve to be praised and adored – especially at Christmas. As always, talented designers and trend-conscious retailers haven’t let us down this year, and the shops are overflowing with new ranges of tempting festive items. Traditional Christmas shapes are still abundant, but some now have wicker and timber finishes. Animal shapes and silhouettes are really popular, and if you despair at the sight of your tree after every family member has had a go, try pulling it all together with your choice of ribbon. Tie knots or bows to the end of the branches for a finished look. Once your Christmas tree is up and decorated, you can start spreading the sparkle around the house. Your front door is a good place to start, as its important job is to offer a warm Christmas welcome to all your friends and family. There are plenty of traditional wreaths and lights available, or you can make your own wooden sign covered with blackboard paint, reminding neighbours how many sleeps there are until the big day. A lovely way of personalising your Christmas welcome is to purchase a ready-made wreath of greens and then gather items to decorate it. Enlist the help of children and use pine cones, ribbons, crystals, feathers, beaded garlands or homemade paper snowflakes. It’s a lovely touch. Once inside, you can start adding some serious wow factor. Consider using some fabric decals to give walls a festive feel in a contemporary way, without costing you space. Bunting is regaining popularity for all occasions and is available in traditional Christmas colours – and it makes a creative alternative to tinsel. You can take the chore out of gift wrapping by enlisting children to help (plain paper can become personalised with paint, stickers and drawings) and don’t forget Christmas stockings for all members of the household (and that includes the pets!) Add a warm glow with candles, but make sure they’re placed in safe spots and out of reach of little hands. Arrange tea lights together on a tray, and try hanging lanterns or adding candles to mantles. If you take time to get your
72
These red and gold Christmas cushions by Jan Constantine are inspired by the fretwork carvings that embellish Alpine chalets and Russian palaces – perfect for a luxurious festive look. For local stockists, contact 01270 821194.
These delightful cut-out reindeer ornaments by The Contemporary Home are designed by Gisela Graham and are made from a lovely chunky wood. Ideal for adding a naturalistic feel to your home. For local stockists, contact 02392 469400
A great tip for a well-dressed home is to achieve a warm and welcome feel, and this starts from your front door into the hallway and beyond. You need to decide which room or rooms you’d like to decorate and continue your personal style throughout your home using different accessories for each room to give a slightly different feel to each one. Fragrance through candles can add a special ambience to the home, with beautiful aromas of cinnamon, pine or one of the many other scents to choose from – made especially for Christmas. – Fakenham Garden Centre Ashleigh & Burwood scented Christmas pomanders Fakenham Garden Centre 01328 863380
KLmagazine November 2013
Christmas
Hand Blown Glass Candle Lamps £75 Hand Blown Glass Festive Bauble Spheres £8 SALT Glass Studios 01328 738873
This wonderful Christmas scene by Dobbies includes their 1.8m Elister Spruce Tree (£89), teardrop baubles (£2.99), mini glass baubles (£3.99 for 16), stag cushion (£38), acorn wreath (£12), hanging pine cones (£5) and gold-lustre tealight holder (£3.50). Dobbies’ new store in King’s Lynn has just opened.
This year, there’s a real trend towards traditional vintage looks and the minimalist fashion of industrial-inspired furniture. Whichever route you take will influence your choice of tree and its decorative theme. What type of planter are you going to house the tree in? Be creative! Try to see the tree as as a sculpture – as a piece of furniture you’ll want to stare at and enhance your room. Once you’ve decorated the tree, accessorise the room to create the ‘fit’ – this doesn’t have to be expensive. Choose ribbons, foliage and natural materials such as wood, pine cones and dried flowers. – FORAS Images from the New Vintage lifestyle giftware collection FORAS 01366 381069
74
home ready for Christmas, you can enjoy the atmosphere for the whole festive season. Above all, delight in the decorating! Create a family tradition by decorating together. Spend the schoolfree week before Christmas having fun recycling cardboard and paper to create masterpieces. Look online and in local stores for inspiration – or see what you come up with together. Save this year’s Christmas cards for next year. Teach children basic sewing skills and use Christmas fabrics, ribbons, bells or whatever else you have lying around. It’s lovely having your own handmade designs at the front of the tree. Keep your decorations safe for next year by placing them in egg cartons. Wrap your lights around all the cardboard tubes you’ll have left over from wrapping paper, tin foil and kitchen towels – it will make the task of putting them up again next year so much easier, and will save you time untangling all that wire! However you decide to get started, it’s important to stay with one theme and style for dressing your home for Christmas. Not only will it make shopping for decorative items easier, you’ll be amazed how it gives the completed look a true professional finish. If they don’t fit your theme or style, don’t be afraid to throw away (or even better, donate) older decorations. It’s impossible to keep everything you have, but try to only keep those items with a real sentimental value – and possibly create a special place just for them. It feels wonderfully liberating to give your Christmas decorations a thorough cleansing. Choose two to three colours for your holiday palette and keep it consistent. Multiple colour palettes can be too distracting and tend to look cluttered and messy. Silver, blue and white make a perfect Christmas combination, as do red, gold and brown. Christmas is a very special time in your home, so give your space a different look and feel for the festive season. Rearrange your furniture so the focal point is the fireplace, or wherever you hang the stockings. If you don’t have a fireplace, arrange the furniture to create the best layout for cozy conversations. If your Christmas celebrations centre around gettogethers with family and friends, having all the seating facing the television probably isn’t the best arrangement. As far as lights go, changing your
KLmagazine November 2013
0 & '') ,+ '') " !+"& 0 0
') +"'&* )$ & *
0 ) %",% , $"+/ )+" " " $ ) * 0
" +. )
0
'% . )
0
*+"- '' %( )*
0 ) %",% $ ) * 0
*+"-
, $"+/
',* ($ &+*
0 !)"*+% * ,& ! &,
...
$ # &! %
)
& &+)
' ,#
Inspirational Tiles and Flooring Some say the best showroom and gardens in Norfolk.
Bathrooms:
Kitchens: #
"
Gardens:
Bedrooms:
!
Open Monday-Friday 8.30 -5.30pm, Saturday 10.00 - 4.00pm Closed Sundays and Bank Holidays
"# $ %
$%
!" #
KLmagazine November 2013
"# $ " & %"' #
''' "# $ " & ! $ (!! "# "
Home and Garden Lifestyle Centre
75
Christmas colour palette from year to year is going to prove costly, so a great idea is to invest in some beautiful white lights. They can be used with any colour scheme, and can help enhance the colours that you’ve decided on. Even better, they can be used all year round (twinkling white lights work especially well for an outdoor summer party. It would be a shame to spoil your overall colour scheme with a garish helping of flashing (and clashing) coloured lights. Because families and tradition are such an important part of Christmas, consider starting a collection of a single decorative item – something that can grow through the years, be added to by friends and family, and can be passed on to the next generation. For instance, many people collect snow globes, and place them together on a windowsill or shelf. They look wonderful, and as long as they’re all displayed together in one place they won’t interfere with a strict colour palette or theme. What they do very well is encourage conversation and memories about where (or who) each snow globe came from. Remember to take your Christmas celebrations into every room – kitchens and bathrooms are great places to put scented candles (in safe locations!) and smaller seasonal decorations, and there’s no reason to be ignoring the bedrooms either. It has become quite fashionable in some interior design circles to promote the ‘less is more’ approach – but if there’s one time when that definitely doesn’t apply, then it’s Christmas. It’s a big, fun, family-based celebration, so your home should reflect that in its decor – big, fun, and family-based. With a little thought and planning in advance, you can easily create a wonderful festive home that adds a real touch of magic to the season – but still manages to be friendly and fun.
Once decorated, the best place to enjoy your Christmas home is in front of a cosy fireplace, curled up with a mug of hot chocolate. The warmth and mesmeric flame of a fireplace is the cherry on the cake – or holly on the pudding! – especially as Jack Frost sets in outside. An enchanting fireplace can be the centrepiece of anyone’s home, all year round. – COASTAL STOVES Morsø Viking wood burning stove COASTAL STOVES 01263 711593 The Contemporary Home have a lovely range of products for Christmas in a range of colour-matching themes. This is the Frosted White & Metallic collection – others include the Scandi, Homespun, Rustic, and Jewel Bright. For local stockists, contact 02392 469400
Add a touch of light relief with this marvellous star shaped Brussels sprout wreath by The Contemporary Home (£31). For local stockists, call 02392 469400
76
KLmagazine November 2013
!
".8
731" 2"5*.(2
1&"3 %&"2 '/1 )1*23-"2 !
&%2 ".% /'"2 *.*.( 3"#,&2 "1%1/#&2 $$"2*/.", '41.*341& ".& 24*3&2 $$&22/1*&2 "1 23//,2 ".% $,/$+2 *11/12 ".% ,/32 -/1&
4(& 23/$+2 '/1 *--&%*"3& 01& )1*23-"2 %&,*5&18
//+2 41.*2)*.(2 3% 4"./$+ ,"$& *.(92 8.. 6&# 666 $//+2'41.*2)*.(2,3% $/ 4+ 3&,
&& 42 /. "$&#//+
STOP... LOOK... GO!
Q. Are you struggling to find an ideal piece of furniture for your home? Q. Do you know exactly what you want, but canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t find it? We can help you! With over 25 years experience in crafting solid pine and solid oak kitchens and furniture, just tell us what you want and we can make it for you.
A. For Exceptional Quality, and an ExtraOrdinary Custom Made Service, You Know Where To Go. Please come and see us at our workshop and showroom.
KLmagazine November 2013
28 Tower Street, King's Lynn | 01553 766532 Open Monday - Saturday 9am - 5pm | bespokepinenoakltd.com
77
ROLL END TOP END
' (( ,% &(' $& &$ '' $# !7 & # !- * 5 " ! & ! ) ! +"' $ "" ! & &# $ & &
$
"$
! *&
+
( $+
*# $& #$" ' & !")
$
" ! & "'$ &$ *# $& (
& $$+ "'!& $ "$
$
&
Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t forget to order in plenty of time for Christmas!
FREE fitting on all patterned book ranges
%
From budget floors to grand designs, we never compromise on quality...
""$% & $"" & ! %# +% " ! & ( ! "'$ & ! & $"" % ")$"" ) $ # % "! !
A huge collection of high quality carpets!
FREE estimates | Full professional fitting service Home selection available | Uplifting and removal service 100s of remnants and rugs | Solid wood flooring Vinyls and laminates | High quality collections
! ! ""$ ! ! % #! " # &&(
A massive choice of top value carpets!
$(
Tower Street, Kingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Lynn PE30 1EJ 8 # ($% $%: # # :' -## $& ) ! # 7 " &7 # ' %# 7 !)" # 9 ( # 7 ( #' 9 ( &$$"' # (( &$$"' ($$5
Tel: 01553 762878 Web: www.economyflooringkl.co.uk
Breathing New Life IntoWell Loved Furniture # %
$
!" & % #
! ! " "# "
" '
" % $ "# &
!! "& & !"&
% "'!&% (
!6 4.110 3.2304
+++5" " '5 $5)
CALL US NOW FOR A CONSULTATION Bespoke orders can be taken for manufacture. Discuss with us today your project and your precise needs.
CURZON & CO : " )& -7 # :' -## 04 / "! +, $ 78
+
#
&'$ +
!""!
Curzon House, Crossbank Road, King's Lynn, PE30 2HD www.curzonandco.com | joann@curzonandco.com
KLmagazine November 2013
WA RM IN G THE H E A RT O F YO U R H O ME
ARCADIA Stocking a wide range of wood burners, fuels and fireside accessories. Offering a complete service from the design through to the build, installation and commissioning. # !"
LE
|
B AT H R O O M S
|
BEDROOMS
|
#
HOME OFFICE
BRATIN
30
G
CE
KITCHENS
#
IN
SS
YEARS BUSINE
KING’S LYNN 48 Bergen Way (next to Citroen) North Lynn Industrial Estate King’s Lynn, Norfolk PE30 2JG Tel: 01553 762749
KLmagazine November 2013
www.kingsoakkitchens.co.uk
HUNSTANTON 2-4 Northgate Precinct (opp. Natwest, High Street) Hunstanton PE36 6EA Tel: 01485 534965
79
By appointment to Her Majesty The Queen Pattrick & Thompsons Ltd Timber Merchants
Your first choice for quality products and service! A comprehensive range of planed and sawn timber, skirting, architrave, dado rail, MDF skirting and architrave, roof trusses, chipboard, plywood, sterling board, hard board, MDF board, plasterboard, worktops, melamine shelving, louvre doors, stairparts, doors, door frames, ironmongery, stains, tools, mastics, adhesives
$' (.+ ((*+ " + $ + +(""$, #-,,!*$'# # * #! ((*+ $'+, && ,$('+ *!) $*+
For the garden... Featheredge board, fence panels, trellis, metposts, fence posts, postmix, decking and much much more... CALL IN AT OUR COLLECTION CENTRE NOW!
SPECIAL OFFERS ON MANY SELECTED PRODUCTS! FREE LOCAL DELIVERY – OR YOU CAN COLLECT!
.!+,'(*"(&%.$' (.+
(& ( -%
OPENING HOURS Mon-Fri 8.00am–5.00pm (closed 12 noon–12.30pm) Saturday 8.00am–12noon
PATTRICK & THOMPSONS LTD T I M B E R
C E N T R E
Pattrick & Thompsons Ltd, Page Stair Lane, King’s Lynn, Norfolk Tel: 01553 762026 Fax: 01553 768495
80
KLmagazine November 2013
Brighter ideas in cost-effective lighting solutions
ABOVE: The new-look (and professionally lit!) Budgens store at Aylsham, together with 4 Way Electrical’s original lighting design (inset)
Budgens in Aylsham benefits from the lighting expertise of 4 Way Electrical
T
he phasing out of inefficient lighting solutions is taking place as part of the EU’s Energy Related Product (ERP) Directive. Lighting technology is changing the way spaces are lit and the way in which we use those spaces. Professionally designed and installed lighting can enhance ambience, influence mood, increase sales and even increase work force productivity – so getting it right is crucial. And since artificial light accounts for up to 20% of the global energy consumption, selecting the right lighting technologies is critical to controlling budgets and running costs. When the C T Baker Group of Holt recently started refreshing and refurbishing the Budgens store in Aylsham, they followed the company’s commitment to high quality from a local supplier and chose 4 Way Electrical Ltd to oversee the lighting and store’s electrical refurbishments. “We’ve worked with 4 Way Electrical in the past,” says CT Baker Group Director Jane Gurney-Read, “and knew their expertise and professional approach would be invaluable in giving us the store we wanted, delivered on time.” Using 4 Way Electrical’s in-house design
KLmagazine November 2013
capabilities, Director Stuart Olley produced a series of 3D lighting concepts detailing various options planned specifically for use in their client’s environment. “Budgens is a retail outlet, so the lighting has to have the right feel for their customer,” says Stuart. “Shopping for food is a very visual activity, so we need to focus people’s attention and make the most of the space and the products on sale.” Furthermore, overcoming the challenges of working in a live retail environment (the store never had to close during the installation), 4 Way Electrical helped bring a bright new look to Budgens in Aylsham store. 4 Way Electrical isn’t tied to a single lighting supplier or manufacturer so the company is able to bring a unique approach
to all their projects, selecting products based on what best suits the client’s project and budget. “We’re free to use any lighting products on the market and we use the most effective lighting we can in all our designs. We understand running costs are climbing year on year with maintenance costs a key factor, so getting it right is key to the end user’s yearly budgets. By helping our clients pick the right produces, we’re able to make a huge difference to their yearly CO2 footprint and running costs” says Stuart. So whether your business or home needs re-lighting, you need to lower your CO2 and existing running costs, or you’re simply in need of a trusted electrical company, 4 Way Electrical Ltd will have some bright new ideas for you too.
Details 4 WAY ELECTRICAL LTD Unit 25, Bergen Way, North Lynn Industrial Estate,King’s Lynn PE30 2JG TEL: 01553 767878 E-MAIL: sales@4wayelec.co.uk WEB: www.4wayelec.co.uk
81
Explorer
Holt
Everyone’s favourite Georgian market town...
ABOVE: An atmospheric photograph of the War Memorial Chapel at Gresham’s by Raven Cozens-Hardy
Over 900 years old and still pretty as a postcard Holt is justifiably proud of its status as a traditional market town, and continues to combine unspoilt Georgian architecture and 21st century business with a great deal of success...
A
s you enjoy your coffee at Byford’s during your visit to Holt (don’t forget to sample some of the best cakes in Norfolk) take a moment to reflect on the fact that this popular cafe, delicatessen and B&B typifies the town in which it sits – packed with history and tradition, charming to look at, and notably friendly. The lovely old building (right) is thought to be the oldest house in Holt (the cellar dates back to the 15th century), surviving the great fire of 1708 and another fire two hundred years
82
later. For over a century it was a hardware shop and ironmongers owned by the Byford family, and the name has continued to this day. As for the town itself, its name probably comes from an ancient word meaning referring to a small grove of trees or woodland, and there are still plenty of wooded areas surrounding the town today. No one really knows when Holt became associated with the owl, but many local clubs use this symbol as their emblem, and you’ll find references to the bird throughout the town (not
KLmagazine November 2013
Explorer
" # $! "
&!
) ' $" % ! ) !
"& (& ! "$! !#
#
) ## )
&&&
KLmagazine November 2013
#$! #
" !%
( $&
#"
# % !( # ! $
$#
! % (" &
(
$
83
Explorer least in the Owl Tea Rooms). There’s even a local tradition that refers to residents of Holt as ‘the knowing ones.’ There are two accounts of how the association started, and both involve a particularly noisy owl. It was either incarcerated in the town’s cattle pound or pushed up a water pipe in the church. Either way, the owl escaped. When the Domesday Book was compiled in 1086, 60 men were listed as living in Holt, along with 90 sheep, 60 pigs, a cart horse, five mills and a market. Holt successfully navigated its way through the turbulent years of early English history (though the plague arrived in 1592 and killed 64 people in little over six months) until an unfortunate event at the start of the 18th century transformed the town. On May 1st 1708, a huge fire destroyed most of the town in less than four hours – the heat was so intense it melted the lead in the church windows. Thanks to the determination of local residents and donations from all over the country, Holt was rebuilt – and the town’s distinctive architectural character derives from this renaissance. Holt has always worked well as a community – only 80 years after the fire, the celebrated diarist Parson Woodforde of Weston Longville stayed at the Feathers Hotel. Describing Holt as “a good, decent town” he thought it “stood well” and had obviously been built in an “era of comely brick”. In Holt, residents work together, play together and (when necessary) protest together. Shortly before the French Revolution in 1789, over 500 people enjoyed a lavish feast in the marketplace (celebrating the recovery of George III from a bout of insanity) – but 20 years later Holt saw riots running through the town as people protested against the high price of food, especially flour. Traditionally, Holt has also been a close-knit community – in 1831 there were 306 houses in the town inhabited by 327 families, and the population stood around 1,700. That sense of community has continued to this day. Holt is rightly proud (and successfully protective) of its independent nature, and the town possesses an individual character that’s quite unique. It’s a winning formula, as business and the community have continued to thrive throughout recent years – as evidenced by the thousands of visitors who visit (and return to) the town every year and Holt’s winning of the 2009 EDP Best Community Award (population under 5000). Holt is here to stay. But then, it always has been. 84
ABOVE: There’s no better way to round off a trip to Holt than with a visit to the King’s Head at Letheringsett
KLmagazine November 2013
Maximising efficiencies and saving money too! For the new-look Budgens at Aylsham, the very best in cold technology means it’s now a supermarket that’s as good looking on the shelves as it is in the energy-efficiency stakes. All thanks to 4 Way Refrigeration Ltd...
A
commitment to high quality products, an emphasis on local expertise and a determined customerfocused outlook – it’s a great way to describe the way Budgens in Aylsham (which is now part of the Bakers & Larners family) serves the community. It also sums up how 4 Way Refrigeration Ltd approaches every installation project – which makes the two a winning combination. For the recent refurbishment and restyling of the Budgens store in Aylsham, 4 Way Refrigeration Ltd have undertaken a thorough servicing and deep cleaning of all existing refrigeration and chiller units and installed new products wherever necessary – maximising efficiencies and energy savings and keeping within budget. “Today’s refrigeration technology puts a necessarily high priority on energy conservation and moneysaving features ,” says Steve Simpson of KLmagazine November 2013
4 Way Refrigeration Ltd, “but it still has a very importatnt job to do. Our local expertise and product knowledge means we can design an installation that meets (or even exceeds) customer expectations and still looks as good as it performs.” That’s certainly clear at Budgens in Aylsham. The stylish new units and cabinets feature clean lines and innovative details that make the most of the products themselves – but behind them lies some very
sophisticated and hard-working technology. Whatever the requirements of the end user, 4 Way Refrigeration Ltd also offers a range of bespoke support and maintenance plans designed to ensure the installation continues to perform at its very best. From remote diagnosis and adjustments to an expert team of professional engineers on call in the field, 4 Way Refrigeration Ltd can help maximise your efficiency and make significant cost and energy savings at the same time. Call now for full details.
Details 4 WAY REFRIGERATION LTD Unit 25, Bergen Way, North Lynn Industrial Estate,King’s Lynn PE30 2JG TEL: 01553 767878 E-MAIL: sales@4wayref.co.uk WEB: www.4wayref.co.uk
85
00
KLmagazine November 2013
Charity
The Macmillan unit in King’s Lynn – a history Macmillan is one of the largest charities in the UK, and celebrated its centenary two years ago. Ron Jackson reviews the history of the Macmillan unit at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in King’s Lynn
L
ast year was a recordbreaking one for Macmillan. The charity supported almost six million people in 2012 – around two million people living with cancer, some 600,000 carers and just over three million friends and family of someone living with cancer. Over 115,000 people signed up for the charity’s famous World’s Biggest Coffee Morning fundraising event, and raised a record £15 million. It’s an incredible achievement, especially given the tough economic environment (Macmillan relies on supporters for 97% of its income) – and it’s all down to the charity’s dedicated volunteers,
KLmagazine November 2013
supporters, partners and staff. Thanks to their dedication and hard work, Macmillan is moving ever closer towards its stated goal of being there for everyone affected by cancer, so that no one has to go through it alone. If there’s anyone in the UK who doesn’t know the name and the work of Macmillan, they must be one of the very few lucky people whose family hasn’t been blighted by cancer. When collecting at local supermarkets for Macmillan, it’s
extremely humbling when very young people put money in your tin with a smile, or when an older person stops to say a relative has received treatment at the Macmillan Centre at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in King’s Lynn – and how much they valued the expertise and support of the Macmillan nurses and staff. What perhaps isn’t so widely known is the fact that for over 40 years, a local committee has been raising money towards the appointment of Macmillan nurses and to help maintain
87
Charity the £1.2 million Macmillan provided by the specialists Unit, which was officially Macmillan have funded. opened by the Queen in The QEH unit is part of a her Golden Jubilee year of network of over 100 2002. Plans to extend and throughout the UK, and improve the facility are together with over 3,500 already in place. Macmillan health Back in 1966, Borough professionals (including Mayor Douglas Back doctors, nurses, proposed an initiative to radiographers, dietitians, form a King’s Lynn occupational therapists and fundraising committee for specialists) it provides what was then known as integrated care to people Macmillan Cancer Relief – with cancer, and wouldn’t and an approach was made be in existence without the to the Reverend George generosity of the public. Bridge (rector of All Saints The King’s Lynn Church), who became the Committee doesn’t pretend prime mover in assembling it raised every penny of the a committee. £1.2 million needed to People who remember build, equip and fund the Rev Bridge know he was centre, but as a result of something of a force to be years of fundraising, they reckoned with, and he have made a significant made approaches to many contribution towards its charity and service clubs in existence. King’s Lynn, inviting them Every penny collected in to provide members to the area or generated by serve on his embryonic events (often organised by committee. members of the public) One organisation was goes to augment the work the Ladies’ Circle (wives of Macmillan and ultimately and partners of Round the local unit and staff. Table members), and one From the germ of an idea of the first to volunteer was in 1966 has developed a its Chairman, Gloria long-lasting and effective Fenton, who said she local fundraising operation. would represent the club George Bridge would be for a year. She was joined astounded by the annual by Marie Jackson (a fellow amount generated today by Ladies Circle member) and The number of people living with cancer in the UK this small dedicated group, despite their intention to is increasing by 3.2% every year – a rate that could which is currently headed serve for just 12 months, Chairman Howard see four million people living with cancer by 2030 by they are the only two Moore. The Committee is Source: Maddams J, Utley M, Møller H. Projections of cancer prevalence in the United Kingdom members of the original extremely grateful to the 2010-2040. Br J Cancer 2012; 107: 1195-1202. committee still actively public for their serving. Like the others generosity – to the care unit, and in April 2006 the name who volunteered at the outset, Gloria individuals and groups who raise was changed to Macmillan Cancer and Marie knew little about the work of money and donate it (via the Support. Macmillan Cancer Relief, but they very Committee) to the common fund From then on, it was a headlong rush quickly organised some fundraising which supports, equips and is about to to provide more nurses, more care activities. An awareness emerged expend a very large sum towards the units and more support for cancer amongst both the committee and the enlargement and improvement of the sufferers and their families. Amazingly, public of the huge task the young Macmillan QEH Centre. 2,000 Macmillan nurses had been Douglas Macmillan had undertaken in In one year alone, 18 individuals and funded by the year 2000, and the 100th 1911 when he founded the Society for groups spontaneously raised and day centre was built the following year. the Prevention and Relief of Cancer donated in excess of £12,000 by The very name Macmillan is after watching his father die of cancer. organising fundraising events ranging synonymous with leading the way in In 1924, his brainchild became a from extreme walks, runs and peak the field of cancer care and family Benevolent Society and changed its climbs to garage sales and dances – in support, by the provision of specially name to the National Society for addition to the fundraising activities of trained nurses and the building and Cancer Relief. Six years later, the first the committee itself. funding of local units (now within the paid member of staff was appointed. By framework of the NHS system). Those wishing to further the work of 1969 the society had started supporting the Committee in fundraising can Ask anyone in King’s Lynn today and in-patient care and was contributing to obtain information leaflets, advice, Tyou’d be hard pressed to find a person the building of hospices. shirts, promotional items, etc by who doesn’t know of the Macmillan The very first Macmillan Nurse was contacting Howard Moore on King’s Unit at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital. funded in 1975, a year that also saw the Lynn 675407 or by sending an e-mail to Sadly, hardly a family exists in which a building of the first Macmillan cancer howard.j.moore@gmail.com. member hasn’t needed the expertise
88
KLmagazine November 2013
How important is your smile? At Castle Rising Dental Surgery we can offer a range of treatments from white fillings to complex aesthetic restorations. Q Are you happy with your smile?
Q Would you like to improve the appearance of your teeth?
Q Would you like to have continuity of treatment with the same dentist?
Both dentists at Castle Rising are very experienced in a wide range of cosmetic procedures. • Late evening and Saturday • Teeth whitening, now appointments available. ONLY legally available from dental professionals. • Help with financing your treatment with • White fillings. Denplan • Porcelain veneers • Free and spacious and crowns. car park. • Treatment of worn teeth. • Denplan - now with international insurance.
AESTHETICS WE HAVE A FACIAL FERING OF L NA IO ESS PROF RS. LE FIL D AN X BOTO
• 2 experienced hygienists.
PRINCIPAL Mr William K Dryden BDS Dund 1983 MFGDP (UK) GDC 58347
ASSOCIATE DENTIST Miss Kinga Maciejewska Lek Stom Warsaw 2004 GDC 139876
For more information call us or visit our website for more details.
Serving the local community since 1996
East Barn, Castle Rising, King’s Lynn, Norfolk, PE31 6AG Tel: 01553 631094 E-mail: info@castlerisingdentist.co.uk Web: www.castlerisingdentist.co.uk
KLmagazine November 2013
89
Justin Hawkins performing live with The Darkness in Thetford Forest on 14th July 2012
00
KLmagazine November 2013
Arts
ALL IMAGES: © NICK ELLIOTT
ZZ Top performing live at London’s High Voltage Festival on 24th July 2010
Nick Elliott: style and craft and rock and roll... KL magazine talks to internationally-reknowned rock photographer Nick Elliott, who’s developed a unique creative style, producing iconic images of some of the biggest names in the business.
N
ow based in North Norfolk, Nick Elliott is a quite remarkable character. His amazing style, infectious enthusiasm and creative energy have seen him travel the world, capturing some of the most recognisable artists on the planet in a wholly individual and distinctive way. He even looks like a rock star. In a way, Nick was always destined to be a rock photographer. “Thanks to my father, I was brought up on a diet of classical music, jazz and Johnny Cash,” he says. “I’ve been around music all my life and I’ve been taking photographs all my life. Back in the days of vinyl, I’d look at album
KLmagazine November 2013
covers and think ‘I could do this’ – and I knew I could do it better.” It wasn’t simply a case of (literally) jumping on the bandwagon, however. Starting out as a trainee press photographer (“it was when journalism was actually written by journalists,” he says), Nick carved out a hugelysuccessful and award-winning career in advertising, working for a range of top agencies and fashion houses on campaigns for companies as diverse as Coca-Cola, Disney, British Airways and Jaguar. Although crucial in building his experience behind the camera and developing his technical knowledge, the world of advertising was a long way from Nick’s love of music. Even before
91
Arts Legendary guitarist Michael Schenker performing live with his band at London’s High Voltage Festival on July 24th 2011
Promotional shoot for sessions drummer LB in East Anglia 2013
92
digital photography was introduced, Nick decided to specialise in the world of rock and roll. “I wanted to develop my own creative style,” he says. “It’s not simply about taking photographs. You have to understand the artist and their passion for what they do. These performers and their music have had a huge influence on my life, and that’s the secret. It’s about emotion and passion. You can’t capture the essence of your subject unless you have a real feeling for what they’re doing.” That approach has seen Nick’s work published extensively for over 20 years. As limited edition fine art prints, his work is in demand around the world and has been exhibited widely in art galleries throughout the UK, Europe and the USA. Nick’s first book TEN is a beautifullyproduced and highly collectable debut publication from specialist music publisher Red Label Publishing, and future projects will take his work further into the world of fine art. He’s currently working on a trilogy of rock books featuring his own favourite images, together with a follow up to TEN – titled 50 Folk, it will include Nick’s fifty favourite images from his decade-long work at the Cambridge Folk Festival and will be published in conjunction with the Festival’s 50th anniversary next year.
Since he’s worked with everyone from Alice Cooper to ZZ Top, asking for his favourite subject is inevitable. “My favourite subject is always going to be the next one,” he immediately replies. “I want to be moving the line all the time. What’s done is done, and I’m more interested in where I can go next creatively. I’d still love to work with Aerosmith, though!” Nick’s distinctive style involves no automatic settings and no photo editing software – it’s just him, his cameras and his subjects, a wholly personal creative process from start to finish. “Thanks to digital technology, everyone thinks they’re a photographer these days,” he says, “but creating real art is a very personal thing. It’s all about individuality and driving your own stake into the ground. That’s what makes photographers like Rankin, Annie Leibovitz and David Bailey so successful. They’re much more than photographers. They’re true artists.” He could well be describing himself. Rock on, Nick. For more information and news about Nick and his work, visit the website at www.nickelliott.info For fine art prints, books and forthcoming publications by Nick, see www.redlabelpublishing.com
KLmagazine November 2013
!
# $ """
KLmagazine November 2013
#
$
#
93
Arts
ABOVE: The stone carvings of Andrew Williams ranges from garden sculptures to more serene and abstract pieces for the home
Andrew carves out a new skill in retirement... Some people retire and take up golf. Some people devote hours to the garden. Andrew Williams became an artist, moving from carving wood to stone. Here, he tells KL magazine about his work
A
ndrew Williams took up woodcarving on retirement, quickly moving on to stone and creating a series of wonderful sculptures whose smooth flowing lines belie the inflexibility of the material itself. Here, the West Norfolk artist talks about the development of his art: When I retired I decided to take up woodcarving, which had at one time been a hobby of mine. I thought I could try selling the carvings as a bit of a challenge, but when I discovered that
94
competition from abroad was so cheap I simply couldn’t compete. So the idea of carving stone came to mind. There seemed to be fewer stone carvers about, and stone sculpture appeared to achieve more respectable prices! I taught myself by trial and error and quite quickly discovered that very different techniques existed between the carving of wood and stone, and that different types of stone required different techniques. The ability to successfully cut letters into stone,
however, does need a specialist approach, and I had excellent training in this ancient art from the Lettering and Commemorative Arts Trust, based in Suffolk. Hand-cut lettering is presently going through something of a revival after having been almost obliterated (at least in a commercial sense) over the last 100 years by the development of automated cutting machinery. My workshop/studio is simply my garden shed, and I only use hand tools for my carving. However, since stone is
KLmagazine November 2013
ABOVE: An example of Andrew’s impressive hand-cut stone lettering – an art currently undergoing something of a revival
such a heavy medium to work with I do need the help of some lifting tackle to get stone onto my workbench and in and out of the trailer – especially for garden sculptures. I usually work with either limestone, marble or green slate. Once I’d become familiar with the technique and filled a few window ledges at home with my carvings, I decided to take up the challenge of gaining some recognition through selling my work. However I was in for a rude shock. Although I managed to find some galleries to exhibit my carvings and feedback was very positive, sales were few and far between. Once the gallery had taken their 50% commission, I was finding my profit over costs was nil – and sometimes even less! Then I discovered the West Norfolk Artists Association. I became a member, which gave me a valuable shop window from which I could achieve some sales and commissions. The Association’s annual exhibition in St Nicholas Chapel and other smaller exhibitions throughout the year in King’s Lynn are varied and excellent, and the monthly meetings and newsletters give me a chance to meet other local artists and exchange information and ideas. Thanks to the Association, I’ve now become better known and I do get a few public commissions. I recently played a small part in the restoration of the King’s Lynn town sign, which now stands proudly on the Southgate roundabout. While others did the main work of restoration, I carved the small heraldic pelican crest which sits on top of the sign. It was a return to my wood-carving days, and the design was taken from original drawings found in the Town Hall. Other recent public commissions of mine can be seen on the clock tower at Grimston and at West Newton, on the Sandringham Estate. They were both commemorative plaques for the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee in 2012. ABOVE: Andrew Williams takes an unremarkable block of stone and creates a wonderfully dynamic otter
KLmagazine November 2013
95
Luxury living
QUALITY & SERVICE AT ITS BEST
Your home – Supreme Carpets style # !
#
!
#
" !
at affordable prices
" " "
!
!
#% &' %& " & *""
"#% #
))) &($% !
%& "
!
%$ '& #!
Visit our furniture superstore to see our fantastic selection. /
( /
! )' )$ " /
' (/ % # ' (/ ' ! ! " ()$# ,$$ # ' %! ( (*' ( '+ / - !*( + ( #( $#!. + ! ! ) "( (( )) # ( '+ / ' $" &*$) ) $#( / ' ! + '. " ! ' *(
" 01553 773533 | www.oak4less.co.uk Unit 1 Hamlin Way, Hardwick Narrows Ind Estate, King’s Lynn, Norfolk, PE30 4NG (Opposite Stebbings Car Centre)
& $# * )
96
'
*'( *#
$$$
"
!
" "
# %
KLmagazine November 2013
My KL The page made by KL magazine readers
Norfolk Brass is East Anglia’s leading brass band, and is represented in the Championship Section of the UK’s Brass Bands (that’s the equivalent to football’s Premier League). The Norfolk Brass President is David Collingham, a Dersingham resident (and supporter of many musical genres) while the Music Director is David Stowell, an experienced conductor and musician of wide experience. Like many brass bands, Norfolk Brass has its origins in a working village community – in this case Reepham, near Norwich. Over the years, this town band grew in strength and stature, eventually becoming Norfolk Brass in 2009. Under the professional direction of David Stowell (who’s also worked with the Grimethorpe Colliery and Black Dyke Colliery Bands) Norfolk Brass rose up the national rankings, to achieve third
place in the UK National Brass Band Championship 2010. The Friends of St Nicholas in Dersingham have invited Norfolk Brass to perform at their annual December event for the past six years. The band has a diverse repertoire of light classical, operatic and film music, which is liberally sprinkled with traditional Christmas tunes for the December concert. This year’s concert takes place on Saturday December 7th, and both the band and the Friends of St. Nicholas’ Church Dersingham will be delighted to welcome KL readers to the event. Saturday 7th December, 2013 St. Nicholas’ Church, Dersingham 7.30pm Norfolk Brass, decorated Christmas trees, mulled wine and mince pies. Tickets £7.50 (in advance) or £8.50 on the door. Tickets can be ordered from 01485 544866, 01485 540865, and 01485 540081.
Dear KL magazine... Following A Summers’ letter in last month’s magazine about the Green Children of Woolpit, I would recommend they get hold of Paul Harris’ excellent study of the subject in Fortean Studies 4 (1988). His very convincing explanation of the story is that the children were actually Flemish orphans, whose parents had been killed around the time of the Battle of Fordham in 1173. The children’s green skin may have been due to chlorosis. BILL CAMPBELL E-mail
KLmagazine November 2013
97
Local Life
CrossCurren s with Canon Chris Ivory, King’s Lynn Minster
L
ast April, I returned to a church where I’d served many years ago. The tired, leaky-roofed old building was due to be demolished and a new centre including a chapel was being built. I’d been invited to preach at the very last service – it remains to be seen if I’ll be invited to the new building! There was only one person present who’d survived the interim 25 years and she hadn’t known I would be there. When I walked through the door, she did a double-take, embraced me and then wept quietly through the whole service. I remember vividly the day when I picked her up then broke a few laws to get to the hospital as fast as possible. One of the East London streets was blocked by a bin lorry. “Let us pass!” I shouted to the men. “We have to get to the hospital!” We mounted the pavement to pass by and sped off, laughing hysterically. The binmen must have thought we were having a lark, but we were too late. A team of medics were pounding his chest, and a machine was inflating his lungs, but her 18-year-old son had taken his own life. His brain was dead, and only the question of organ donation remained – a tiny spark of hope that out of this awful tragedy, a final act of supreme generosity could perhaps save several other people. Twenty six years later there may be people alive who are thankful for the brave decision to give all that could be given out of a situation of the greatest loss – but a mother still weeps for her only child. Fittingly, November is a month of
98
remembrance. The 1st is All Saints’ Day – when the Church celebrates all the saints too numerous to be named on their own special day. Perhaps their names and their stories were never known beyond their own time and place, but their lives were ones of heroic love for God and their neighbours nevertheless. The next day is All Souls’ Day, and is for personal remembrance and thanksgiving for those we knew and still love, to acknowledge the scars of bereavement, but also to step outside the loneliness of grief and to seek signs of hope. On Remembrance Sunday, the whole nation pauses to remember those who have died in war. The number of participants increases year by year, which is perhaps surprising. It’s not just about two world wars, but about more recent and continuing wars, and about our solidarity with those who serve. Whatever we may think of the politicians who deploy them, we owe respect to those who risk their lives in obedience to their orders. But I wonder if Remembrance Sunday has also become an occasion to express the more general grief felt by people who have lost sight of any other occasion to express their particular bereavement. The end of this season is marked by World AIDS Day on the first day of December. In wealthy countries, HIV has become a chronic condition to be lived with – albeit one
conscientiously to be avoided. The situation worldwide remains devastating – where poverty, ignorance and prejudice have tragic consequences. It’s a day of praying for enlightenment and wisdom, for those who are sick, for those who help them and develop treatments, but it is most often the bereaved that take part. Christian faith and healing are not about putting things back as they were, but about accepting the reality of bereavement and finding a new place to look forward with hope – hope for our loved-ones and hope for ourselves. Remembrance is about thanksgiving for all that has been good in the past, but also commitment to the future. Blooming poppies are a sign of hope.
KLmagazine November 2013