KL Magazine March 2014

ISSN 2044–7965

ISSUE 42 MARCH 2014 PRICELESS

magazine

WEST NORFOLK | NORTH NORFOLK | COASTAL

A GREAT BRITISH INSTITUTION We are immensely proud of our heritage, our deep-rooted passion for Norfolk and its residents, and the principles by which we have become the county’s finest home furnishing store. We have always championed Great British furniture brands which represent our own values and which epitomise traditional British craftsmanship, quality and design. So why not come along and enjoy the very best ranges, galleries and displays, and be inspired to change your home and lifestyle.

we won’t be beaten for quality, choice and value for money, that’s guaranteed Oxborough Lane Fakenham NR21 8AF T: 0845 130 3388

Visit us online at:

Hall Road Norwich NR4 6DH T: 0845 230 3388

www.aldiss.com

Everything Your Home Desires

COVER IMAGE

Blickling Hall 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 Lisa Tonroe

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 above. Please note this applies only to images taken by our own photographers.

00

P

eckover House is a real secret gem, a wonderful architectural treasure with outstanding gardens hidden away in an urban environment. It’s not the only reason to visit Wisbech by any means, but for a taste of the town’s rich and colourful past it really needs to be on your must-see list this spring. As the weather gets better and the days get longer, our thoughts always turn to getting out and about – and we’re fortunate enough to live in a county that never fails to offer fantastic opportunities and new experiences.

If you enjoy delving into the past, don’t miss the chance to take a unique look at life in Roman Britain at Norwich Castle Museum (see page 16) – thanks to an important exhibition only appearing at six locations in the UK. Talking of unique slices of history, the Friends of the Hardwick Road Cemetery in King’s Lynn are about to embark on a major restoration project (see page 28), helping preserve a priceless source of information about the lives (and deaths) of the people who made a significant contribution to the development of the town.

If you’d prefer to get a bit closer to the natural wonders of Norfolk, Branta Cruises offer you the chance to explore the marvellous creeks off Brancaster Staithe, while Norfolk Fishing Trips can take you on a day full of offshore activity – and you can learn a new skill in the process! Whatever you do this month, have a great time – and enjoy the magazine!

KL MAGAZINE KLmagazine March 2014

Contents 7-13

WHAT’S ON This month’s diary of forthcoming events

8-10

BLICKLING HALL The history of Anne Boleyn’s home

MARCH 2014

16-18 ROMANS: POWER AND PEOPLE A major exhibition comes to Norfolk 20

THE BIG INTERVIEW John Davies of Norfolk Museums Service

23

THEN & NOW The changing face of the local area

16

48

28-30 A MONUMENT OF LOCAL HISTORY A look at Hardwick Road Cemetery 33

PETS Help and advice with local vet Alex Dallas

34-36 TIME FOR THE LAMBS Our enduring relationship with sheep 38-42 FASHION The latest looks from the local boutiques 48-50 A TASTE OF BIRCHAM...

Ellie Chalmers’ award-winning cheeses

8

52-63 FOOD AND DRINK Recipes, reviews and recommendations 64-66 GETTING CLOSE TO NATURE All aboard with Branta Cruises 70-72 THE ONE THAT GOT AWAY...

Enjoy a day’s fishing off the Norfolk coast 76-78 EXPLORER Out and about in Wisbech 80-82 A FEAST OF ART AND CULTURE What’s on at the King’s Lynn Arts Centre 89

MY KL The page made by KL magazine readers

90

CROSS CURRENTS Canon Chris Ivory’s look at local life

KLmagazine March 2014

70

80 5

MARCH BOX OFFICE: (01603) 63 00 00

Mon 3 Mar ESSENCE OF IRELAND Celebration of Irish music, song and dance £5.50 – £22.50 Tues 4 Mar BRITTEN SINFONIA Bartok, Brahms, Janacek £6.50 - £26 Wed 5 Mar JAMIE ALLAN iMagician – innovative modern magic £5.50 - £20

Fri 7 – Sat 8 Mar ENGLISH YOUTH BALLET Magical new production of Swan Lake £5.50 - £21 Mon 10 – Sat 15 Mar HAPPY DAYS Heidi Range, Ben Freeman, Cheryl Baker star in family rock ‘n’ roll musical £6.50 - £35

Tues 25 – Sat 29 Mar PROPELLER Award-winning, all male Shakespeare £5.50 - £24 Sun 30 Mar NORFOLK SCHOOLS PROJECT Local schoolchildren perform opera Free

Wed 19 – Sun 23 Mar Robin Cousins’ ICE Dazzling ice show £6.50 - £31.50

Robin Cousins’ ICE

Wed 26 Feb – Sat 1 Mar BARMY BRITAIN Horrible Histories come to life £5.50 - £16

Book online: www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk T H E AT RE ST REE T, N ORW ICH N R2 1 R L

There’s never been a more luxurious way to enjoy the magic of the movies... this month’s must-see screenings at the luxe: The Grand Budapest Hotel | The Lego Movie | Rio 2

The Book Thief | The Monuments Men | Cuban Fury

All Is Lost | Muppets Most Wanted | Inside Llewyn Davis A New York Winter’s Tale | Only Lovers Left Alive

Films subject to change. View our website for up to date screening information.

luxurious leather seating throughout premier sofas with waitress service stylish & comfortable lounge bar mainstream, arthouse & classic films

The Luxe independent cinema

Alexandra Road, Wisbech, Cambridgeshire PE13 1HQ Tel: 01945 588808 Book online: www.theluxecinema.com

6

KLmagazine March 2014

PICTURE: Lady of the Lake by Maxine Byron

March

10 YEARS AGO: On 29th March 2004, Ireland became the very first country in the world to ban smoking in all workplaces – including bars and restaurants.

Saturday 1st

MARCH FARMERS’ MARKET Creake Abbey, North Creake, Fakenham (9.30am-1pm) Creake Abbey’s hugely popular Farmers’ Market takes place with around 54 of the region’s very best food and drink producers. Come and discover a feast of outstanding fresh seasonal produce including meat, vegetables and fruit, cakes, tray bakes, dairy produce, artisan beer, apple juice, artisan breads, morning goods, puddings, pies, tarts (sweet and savoury), olives and prepared meals (all made with the finest local ingredients). The Café and Food Hall at Creake Abbey will be open, with bookings for lunch taken from 1.30pm. Outside the Food Hall the Café team will also be serving hot food to keep you warm. For further details, see www.creakeabbey.co.uk.

Tuesday 18th

PHILOMENA (12a) Cinema in the Creakes, North Creake Village Hall (7.30pm) A world-weary political journalist picks up the story of a woman’s search for her son, who was taken away from her decades ago after she became pregnant and was forced to live in a convent.

This marvellous film is based on a true story, and stars Judi Dench (right) and Steve Coogan. Tickets are only £5 and are available on the door or by phoning 01328 738959. The price includes a complimentary drink from the licensed bar (which opens at 7pm). For more details and to watch trailers of this and other forthcoming films at Cinema in the Creakes, visit the website at www.northcreake.org.uk.

Kelvin Clarke Honda Sales

Saturday 22nd to Saturday 29th OFF THE PAGE Red Barn Gallery, King’s Lynn Arts Centre, King’s Lynn (11am–4pm daily except Sunday 23rd) FREE ENTRY (and easy disabled access and facilities) Parking at Tuesday Market Place, King’s Lynn Members of the West Norfolk Artists’ Association proudly present their Spring 2014 Exhibition – featuring some amazing work inspired by a favourite piece of poetry or verse. These talented local artists will delight you with their contemporary and traditional use of a wide variety of mediums, including textiles, installations, mixed media and paintings. The West Norfolk Artists’ Association will be holding all their three major exhibitions – Spring, Summer Festival and Autumn – at the King’s Lynn Arts Centre during 2014 and they’re already looking forward to welcoming everyone. Tea and coffee is available in the Pop Up Café in the Shakespeare Barn. For further details, contact WNAA Chairman Kit Price Moss on 01485 529223 or visit the association’s website at www.westnorfolkartists.org.

Crown Garage Honda

From March

BLACKSMITHING COURSE Fransham Forge, Fransham Join award-winning master blacksmith Nigel Barnett and his friendly team for some tuition in basic forging! These brilliant 2-day courses are only £150 and all tools, materials and safety equipment is provided. For more details, see www.artist-blacksmith.co.uk.

We’ve had a busy year here at Crown Honda King’s Lynn and our selection of quality approved used Hondas has been selling well. All are hand picked and many are previously supplied and serviced by us or our Soham branch. With prices starting from £4,990 there’s something to please everyone and they all come with 12 months Honda guarantee including home start and roadside assistance. The year also saw the launch of the new Honda CR-V with the amazing 1.6 Diesel low emission engine, just £30 road tax and 62 mpg, and the all new Civic Tourer, a five door estate with amazing luggage space. Please call me if you’d like to book an extended test drive. I know we opened last March, but it only seems a few days ago. It’s been really nice to meet some loyal Honda customers and to introduce many more local motorists to the Honda experience. Whatever your needs - come along, myself and the rest of the team look forward to meeting you. The kettle is always on. No hassle, no pressure - that’s the Honda way.

CROWN HONDA Scania Way, King’s Lynn, PE30 4JH | Tel: 01553 762984 |www.kingslynn-honda.co.uk KLmagazine March 2014

7

12

KLmagazine March 2014

March

Saturday 15th CONCERT: THE GLORIES OF BACH & HANDEL Fakenham Parish Church, Fakenham (7.30pm) Fakenham Choral Society marks its 40th anniversary with a gala evening celebrating the works of two tremendously popular composers (both born in 1685), whose universal appeal has grown with the passing years.

The choir will be conducted by Musical Director Janet Kelsey and accompanied by a concert orchestra. The soloists will be soprano Wendy Goodson, alto Freya Jacklin, tenor Julian Forbes and bass Tom Appleton, with James Laird on the organ.

Tickets are £12, with under 18s free of charge, and are available from 01328 830639, from choir members or on the door.

Sunday 30th MOTHER’S DAY LUNCH...

Legacy Duke’s Head Hotel, King’s Lynn You should never need an excuse to treat your mum, but with Mother’s Day fast approaching there’s no better time to treat her to a special lunch at the Legacy Duke’s Head Hotel in King’s Lynn. A specially devised and prepared 3-course lunch for only £25.00 per person, with children under 12 years half price and children under 3 years free of charge.

What’s more, all the lucky mums will receive a small gift on all pre-booked tables! For more details and bookings, please contact the hotel reception on 01553 774996.

Wells Film Festival 2014

Saturday 29th MAGIC OF MOTOWN King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, King’s Lynn (7.30pm) Celebrating 50 years of UK number one hit singles, the Magic of Motown is coming to town with its all-new Baby Love Tour.

In 1964 The Supremes rocketed to the top of the British singles chart with the song Baby Love, which is still considered one of the most popular songs of the late 20th century. Incredibly, 100 more worldwide Motown number ones followed the lead of the Supremes – and the Magic of Motown show features 36 back-toback massive Motown hits. It’s the nearest you’ll get to authentically capturing this incredible musical legacy in a live show. Tickets (£22.50, £21.50 for concessions) are available from the Corn Exchange Box Office on 01553 764864, or book online at the official website at www.kingslynncornexchange.co.uk.

Friday 7th to Sunday 9th

WELLS FILM FESTIVAL 2014 Screen-next-the-Sea, Granary Theatre, Newgate Lane, Wells Norfolk’s best-loved and friendliest film festival returns this month with a collection of films celebrating the many different on-screen depictions of crooks and villains. From Roman Polanski’s 1974 classic Chinatown (with Jack Nicholson and Faye Dunaway) to Charles Crighton’s brilliant 1988 comedy A Fish Called Wanda, it’s a wonderful sampling of great films packed with unforgettable moments. There’s something for everyone at the Festival. Fans of European cinema will appreciate the French 1955 masterpiece Rififi (which features an intricate half-hour robbery scene shot in near silence), while children (of all ages!) never fail to be enchanted by 101 Dalmatians – and if you ever wondered why The Third Man (pictured left) is so highly regarded, here’s your chance!

The Festival opens with a reception at 6pm on the Friday, there’s a special wine tasting event on Saturday night, and the Festival closes (after a screening of John Landis’ The Blues Brothers) with a party in the Granary Theatre. Tickets are only £5 for each film (£2.50 for 101 Dalmatians) and are available on 07900 316606 or send an e-mail to wellsfilmfestival@gmail.com for details. Full screening information and times are available at www.wells-cinema.com KLmagazine March 2014

13

Local Life

8

KLmagazine March 2014

ABOVE: The magnificent setting of Blickling Hall belies its oft-quoted status as the most haunted house in Britain

The splendour and the beauty of Blickling Hall Set on an estate that comprises some 500 acres of woodland, 450 acres of parkland and 3,500 acres of farmland, the beautiful grandeur of Blickling Hall is one of Norfolk’s genuine treasures.

I

t’s been used in television programmes and music videos, has been described as one of the National Trust’s most beautiful buildings, and was once voted the most haunted house in Britain.

It is, of course, the Jacobean splendour of Blickling Hall, and its most famous visiting spirit is undoubtedly that of Henry VIII’s second wife Anne Boleyn.

But the history of Blicking Hall and the estate that surrounds it is much richer than that.

Evidence has been found that indicates people have been living at

KLmagazine March 2014

Blickling for at least 6,000 years, but the origin of the name is open to debate. It could refer to the landscape, a combination of the Old English ‘beck’/’blick’ and ‘ling’ (stream and grassy bank, respectively) or be an indication that the place was the home of Blickla’s people (from the Norse ‘Blicka’ and ‘ling’).

Over the years, Blickling has been owned by such notables as King Harold and William the Conqueror, the Bishop of Norwich, Sir Thomas Erpingham and Sir Geoffrey Boleyn – and all of them left their mark in some form or another.

During medieval times two parks

probably existed at the site – one being centred on the Bishop’s Palace near to the river Bure and the other being centred on the house built by Sir Nicholas Dagworth in 1390.

It wasn’t until the demise of the Boleyns and the effects of the Reformation that the two parks were combined and the land eventually came into ownership of the Hobart family in 1616.

The land which makes up the park and estate we see today really started to be acquired in the seventeenth century by Henry Hobart as the present house was being built.

9

Local Life

The estate he bought amounted to about 100 acres, but he was keen on acquiring an additional 500 acres.

Henry never saw the completed house – but he had set in motion the idea of a much larger park.

In the 15th century, the Hall itself had been in the possession of Sir John Fastolf of Caister (1380–1459), who’d made a fortune in the Hundred Years War and whose coat of arms is still on display at Blickling.

Later, the Hall was in the possession of the Boleyn family, and was home to Sir Thomas Boleyn and his wife Elizabeth between 1499 and 1505. It’s assumed their first two children (Mary and George) were born at Blickling Hall, along with several other Boleyn

children who died in infancy.

If the couple’s most famous child – Anne Boleyn – was born before 1505 then she was born at Blickling as well, although some historians claim she was probably born in 1507, by which time her family had moved to Hever Castle in Kent. The weight of the evidence favours Blickling, however, as a statue and a portrait of Anne Boleyn can be found there claiming that indeed Anna Bolena hic nata 1507.

The current building we know and love as Blickling Hall was built on the ruins of the old Boleyn property in the reign of James I by the aforementioned Sir Henry Hobart, who bought Blickling from Robert Clere in 1616.

Robert Lyminge (the highly-

acclaimed architect of Hatfield House in Hertfordshire) is credited with the design of the current structure.

Sir Henry married the daughter of Sir Robert Bell of Beaupre Hall, Outwell (who was Speaker of the House of Commons from 1572–1576) and a grand display of heraldic material is present throughout the estate.

During World War II the house was requisitioned and served as the Officers Mess of nearby RAF Oulton. It was at this time that the house and its estate passed to the National Trust under the terms of the Country Houses Scheme.

At the end of the war, the house was de-requisitioned and let to tenants until 1960, when the Trust began the work to restore the house to a style reflecting its history – finally opening it to the public in 1962.

One of Blickling Hall’s undisputed treasures is its library, which contains one of the most historically significant collections of manuscripts and books in England. The most important single manuscript associated with the house is probably the Blickling Homilies, which are one of the earliest existing examples of English ‘homiletic’ writings.

Another hugely important manuscript from the library is the Blickling (or Lothian) Psalter, a beautiful illuminated psalter from the 8th-century – although this is now owned by the Pierpont Morgan Library in New York.

> For opening times and more information on Blickling Hall, call 01263 738030 or visit the website at www.nationaltrust.org.uk/blicklingestate/

10

KLmagazine March 2014

Your Local Downham Market Auction Rooms NEXT RACE

MEETING

FAKENHAM

The Tote Silver Cup Raceday Friday, March 14th| First Race: 1:45pm

D STANDARD GOL

Giant outdoor TV screen showing all live races from The Cheltenham Festival

We hold regular auction sales of antiques, household furniture effects and collectables on the 1st and 3rd Wednesday of each month.

Auction dates for your diary: 5th & 19th March 4th & 18th June 2nd & 16th April 2nd & 16th July 7th & 21st May 6th & 20th August 24th May - Hilgay for farm machinery

BARRY L HAWKINS Auctioneers Contact Julia or Barry for more information.

15 Lynn Road, Downham Market Tel: 01366 387180 Web: www.barryhawkins.co.uk

KLmagazine March 2014

Admission: Adults from £8 17 years and under (accompanied by adults) FREE

April’s Race: Easter Monday 21st, first race 2.15pm May’s Race: Tuesday 6th, first race 2pm Ladies Day: Sunday 1st June, first race 2pm

First race times are subject to change

Fakenham RACECOURSE

Fakenham Racecourse Ltd, The Racecourse Fakenham, Norfolk NR21 7NY T: 01328 862388 E: info@fakenhamracecourse.co.uk W: www.fakenhamracecourse.co.uk

11

agency Au Pairs from France & other European countries

Do you need an extra pair of hands?

The solution is Euro Pair!

You lead a busy life, you need someone who can share the childcare tasks and help with your domestic chores.

Help is at hand! We offer:

• Long term Au Pairs for the academic year r 29 years Established fo Please call

01553 618985 for more information

• Short-term Summer Au Pairs

(

!

$% " #

((

&

&* ' %&$* & &" " !, !!' # &$ ( &$% &(, $"" & ! &$% &(, &'$# ! # )&, "%!$," #( '%)( '$!)( $# # $"" & ! +

• Efficient and caring service • Continuous support during placement

St Helen’s, King’s Lynn, PE34 3FN. email: info@europair.net | web: www.euro-pair.co.uk

$

"""

"

#

!

"

!

14

KLmagazine March 2014

Making the right ISA choice for your family

I

ndividual Savings Accounts (ISAs) remain an important building block in helping create capital and income for the future and since their launch in 1999, when they replaced Personal Equity Plans (PEPs) and TaxExempt Special Savings Accounts (TESSAs), the popular personal finance vehicle has gone some way to address the shortcomings in the UK’s savings culture.

There are two types of ISA: Cash ISAs are savings accounts where the interest is paid tax-free, and Stocks & Shares ISAs which, as the name suggests, allow investment into a wider range of stock market and other financial instruments.

However, there are restrictions on how much can be invested in each type. The full annual allowance of £11,520 (2013/14) can be invested in a Stocks & Shares ISA, but only half – £5,760 – can be saved in a Cash ISA (although the balance of the allowance can still be invested in a Stocks & Shares version). An inflation-linked increase will see the allowance rise to £11,880 in the new tax year. An individual or couple who invested the full ISA allowance each year could by now have sheltered funds of £124,080 and £248,160 respectively from any further tax liability, according to HMRC.

But there is a sting in the tail. The squeeze on savers from record-low interest rates is also being felt by those with Cash ISAs. Figures from the Bank of England in December showed that the average Cash ISA deposit rate is just 0.67%. The reality is that the tax benefits provided by ISAs are best maximised by investing for the long term in assets capable of achieving capital growth and rising income. The likelihood is that interest rates will remain low for a number of years to come and, regrettably, savers cannot even be sure that their Cash ISA account is achieving a better rate than a standard deposit account.

Against that backdrop, whilst cash is certainly the right home for money that might be needed in the short term, ISA allowances might be better utilised by investing in a diversified portfolio of assets that have the scope to deliver higher levels of income and long-term capital gains and, in doing so, make the most of the tax freedom on returns. Of course, investors need to bear in mind that the value of a Stocks & Shares ISA may fall as well as rise and it does not provide the security of capital associated with a Cash ISA. As well as considering the best use of this and future years’ ISA allowances, those who have already built up

significant ISA funds might be able to improve the income and capital returns on offer.

Can they improve the incomegenerating potential of their ISA portfolio? Are they happy with the service they’re receiving?

A thorough review of an ISA portfolio by an experienced wealth manager can ensure that it is appropriately structured and diversified to help achieve immediate or future financial goals.

ISAs should be a fundamental element of financial planning, but it is also important to consider them in the context of an overall investment strategy and to ensure that an ISA portfolio can be adjusted easily to cater for changing needs.

Remember that the favourable tax treatment given to ISAs is subject to changes in legislation and may not necessarily be maintained in future.

To receive a complimentary guide covering wealth management, retirement planning or Inheritance Tax planning, contact Jeremy P. Allen at 4 King Street, King’s Lynn, Norfolk PE30 1ES on 01553 774500, by email at jeremy.allen@sjpp.co.uk or visit www.sjpp.co.uk/jeremyallen

KLmagazine March 2014

15

34

KLmagazine March 2014

PICTURES: © The Trustees of The British Museum

Local Life

ROMAN PEOPLE, ROMAN POWER: Just a few of the objects from the British Museum currently on display in the Castle Museum – a wonderful mummy portrait of a woman from around 55-70AD, a stunning marble funerary monument (above) from 100-110AD and a gold medallion of Constantius I from 297AD

A unique look at local life in Roman Britain...

A major new exhibition at Norwich Castle Museum offers an amazing insight into people’s lives in a continent-spanning empire. KL magazine meets Dr John Davies to discover more.

W

e have a lot to thank the Romans for.

Straight roads, public baths and toilets, fresh water, central heating, take-away food, domestic cats and the 365-day calendar are just some of the things the Romans introduced when they started arriving in 43AD. The legacy of Roman Britain and its place within the wider Empire are still very much with us, and it offers a very interesting perspective on the Europe of today.

“Bear in mind the Roman Empire more or less covered the area of the KLmagazine March 2014

European Union today,” says Dr John Davies, Chief Curator and Keeper or Archaeology for Norfolk Museums Service. “Over that vast area it had one ultimate ruler, one political system and a single currency. The truly remarkable thing about it is that it worked so well – everyone wanted to be part of it. The great secret of the Roman’s success was how local cultures and societies accepted and adapted to the way of Roman life – without losing a sense

of their own identity.”

Those sentiments are clear from a major exhibition currently on show at Norwich Castle Museum. Roman Empire: Power and People brings together hundreds of objects from the British Museum and the castle’s own extensive collections to offer a unique look at this fascinating and hugely important period in our history.

Two years in the planning, it’s the biggest archaeology exhibition in the county for almost 10 years and 17

Local Life

PICTURES: © The Trustees of The British Museum / KL magazine

features some truly astounding treasures that cover all aspects of Roman society.

There are sculptures from the villas of two Roman emperors (Tiberius and Hadrian), a funerary portrait of a wealthy woman, and a remarkably wellpreserved child’s sock. The exhibition features jewellery, coins, statues, glassware – even a soldier’s discharge papers and a dinner invitation.

The objects – which come from right across the Roman Empire – present a wonderful panorama of Roman life, and it’s lovely to see so many objects that were found in Norfolk – such as the goat figurine from Walsingham, the glass flask from Hockwold, and the incredible parade helmet from the River Wensum.

“One of the really lovely things about the exhibition,” says Dr Davies, “is that no matter where the objects come from they all have their own provincial character and a sense of where they originated. Most of the objects haven’t been seen before and much of the exhibition features new finds, which makes it really exciting.”

The touring exhibition is visiting just six venues around the UK, a fact which underlines the status of Norwich Castle as one of the country’s leading regional museums.

From deeply personal objects to symbols of political might, the exhibition is a fantastic and unique look at the people and the power of the Roman Empire.

“I think one of the most valuable lessons of the exhibition comes from seeing how successful the Romans were at binding cultures together harmoniously,” says Dr Davies. “They very cleverly fused religious ideas and belief systems to tie different communities together – allowing people to become part of an enormous empire without losing their local sensibilities.”

Roman Empire: Power and People is running at Norwich Castle Museum until Sunday April 27th and is accompanied by an extensive programme of special events. For more details and information, see www.museums.norfolk.gov.uk

PICTURES: Dr John Davies (centre, right) at Norwich Castle’s Roman Empire: Power and People exhibition, which includes (among hundreds of other objects) this marble sculpture of a barbarian captive (top), a delightful Romano-British copper alloy and enamel dragonesque brooch (right), and a charming – and amazingly well-preserved – child’s sock from El-Sheikh Ibada in Egypt (far right), which dates from 200-400AD.

18

KLmagazine March 2014

THE ORIGINAL, THE BEST, THE OBVIOUS CHOICE!

West Norfolk Glass:

improving your home since 1967

F

or windows, doors and conservatories, there’s no substitute for quality – and nothing like over 40 years experience to guarantee a first-class service. West Norfolk Glass have been the region’s premier supplier of leading-edge products since 1967, and our track record speaks for itself.

Take a look at Evolution’s Storm 2 windows for example. It’s a modern, energy-efficient PVCu window that’s hand finished by craftsmen, and it really does look like traditional timber!

As thousands of people have discovered, there’s no doubt about it – if you want glass in Norfolk, you want West Norfolk Glass. There really is no alternative.

West Norfolk Glass Hereford Way, Hardwick Narrows, King’s Lynn PE30 4JD telephone: 01553 763164 web: www.westnorfolkglass.co.uk

Glass & Glazing Federation

The Big Interview

As a major exhibition on the people and the power of the Roman Empire comes to Norfolk (see page 16 of this month’s issue), KL magazine meets the Chief Curator of Norfolk Museums Service Dr John Davies to talk about his work and his love of history...

KL MAGAZINE: Could you give us a brief overview of the Norfolk Museums Service?

JOHN DAVIES: We’re one of the leading museum services in the country, with 10 sites – all of historic importance – across Norfolk. We care for nationally important collections covering archaeology, art, natural history and social history. We engage audiences in Norfolk and beyond, through our displays, exhibitions, events and services.

KL MAGAZINE: What does your role as Chief Curator actually entail?

JOHN DAVIES: I enjoy a wonderful blend of working with museum collections and leading a team of dedicated professionals, whose expertise covers all aspects of heritage and the arts. My role is to ensure that our specialists, who care for and interpret the county collections, are able to do their jobs effectively. I’m also involved in developing ideas for projects and new exhibitions at our museums.

KL MAGAZINE: What should we be looking out for in our local museums at the moment?

JOHN DAVIES: There really is so much going on!

In Norwich we have the new ‘Norman Connections’ displays in the Castle Keep. And don’t forget the amazing ‘Roman Empire’ exhibition! There’s a final chance to see ‘Thetford’s Lost Tudor Sculptures’, which closes at the Ancient House Museum at the end of March. ‘Supermodels’ opens at Time and Tide in Great Yarmouth on 28th March. There’s a wonderful exhibition about Seahenge at the Lynn Museum and in April there’s a new exhibition there called ‘King’s Lynn on the Map’.

Dr. John Davies Chief Curator and Keeper of Archaeology Norfolk Museums Service 20

KL MAGAZINE: What’s the most rewarding part of your job?

JOHN DAVIES: It’s great to get good feedback from visitors when they’ve enjoyed their visits. I also really enjoy working on display ideas with our teams. I love seeing new projects being developed, such as exhibitions – and also being part of that creative process.

KL MAGAZINE: What’s your favourite single item from the Norfolk Museums Service collection?

JOHN DAVIES: I’ve been working on a ‘100 Most Important Objects’ project and that’s been hard enough! My first thought is to say Norwich’s magnificent Norman Castle Keep. But if I can’t have a building, it would have to be the Happisburgh handaxe. I was fortunate to see it when it was first brought in to our Archaeology Department and participated in the initial investigations of the site.

Since then, I’ve followed the most recent discoveries at Happisburgh which have transformed our understanding of human origins.

KLmagazine March 2014

KL MAGAZINE: What have you learned from your work?

JOHN DAVIES: Working in museums gives a real sense of purpose for the development of knowledge about our county and its historic past. I’ve learned the importance of making everything we do relevant to our public. We are working for the people of Norfolk and it’s vital that we continue to work closely together with them.

KL MAGAZINE: What do you like best about Norfolk?

JOHN DAVIES: I love to visit the beaches and the gardens.

I enjoy the continual challenge posed by Norfolk’s archaeology – there’s still so much for us to discover and understand. I’m also inspired by the continued enthusiasm of the people of the county to learn more about their heritage.

KL MAGAZINE: In your free time, how do you like to relax?

JOHN DAVIES: What is free time?! Inevitably I love visiting museums and galleries, and I read anything and everything I can. I find both classical music and gardening a complete release, as is physical exercise and visits to the gym. My involvement in our ‘Norman Connections’ project has given me the opportunity to visit Normandy in recent years and, as a result, I’ve developed a fascination with World War 2 military history.

KL MAGAZINE: Who’s your biggest inspiration?

JOHN DAVIES: In the world of museums, the contribution of Neil MacGregor stands out. In archaeology, my old tutor Richard Bradley and Barry Cunliffe have both continued to fire my enthusiasm for understanding our early past. I must also mention the late Tony Gregory, who pioneered the liaison between metal-detectorists and archaeologists in the 1970s and 80s.

KL MAGAZINE: What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?

JOHN DAVIES: My father told me to give my best in whatever I should choose to do. I’ve always tried hard to do this in the professional roles that I’ve been given.

KL MAGAZINE: What was the last book you read?

JOHN DAVIES: I always read two novels simultaneously. I’ve recently completed Margaret Atwood’s imaginative futuristic ‘MaddAddam’ trilogy and I’ve also just finished ‘Under the Eagle’ by Simon Scarrow.

KL MAGAZINE: Tell us something about yourself that would surprise people...

JOHN DAVIES: Being brought up in Kent, I’m a life-long supporter of Gillingham Football Club. Oh dear. I also own one the largest collections of football programmes for a lower division football team, dating from the 1950s to the present.

KLmagazine March 2014

21

INSURANCE MATTERS WITH CHARTWELL 70

FREE Parker Pen with every quote

O

QH RI OLIH V PRUH VLPSOH IDFWV LV WKDW \RX FDQ QHYHU KDYH HQRXJK SHQV 7KDW V ZK\ VSHFLDOLVW LQVXUDQFH EURNHU &KDUWZHOO LV JLYLQJ DZD\ D IUHH 3DUNHU SHQ ZRUWK d WR DQ\RQH ZKR REWDLQV D TXRWH IRU WKHLU DGDSWHG YHKLFOH PRELOLW\ VFRRWHU WUDYHO KRPH RU LQGHSHQGHQW OLYLQJ LQVXUDQFH 6LQFH LWV LQWURGXFWLRQ LQ 3DUNHU KDV VROG PRUH WKDQ PLOOLRQ RI WKH LFRQLF VWDLQOHVV VWHHO -RWWHU SHQV &KDUWZHOO KDV D ORQJ KLVWRU\ RI SURYLGLQJ VSHFLDOLVW FRYHU IRU SHRSOH ZLWK GLVDELOLWLHV VLQFH WKH FRPSDQ\ ZDV IRXQGHG LQ E\ $GULDQ )OX[ ê KLPVHOI D GLVDEOHG PRWRULVW 7KH FRPSDQ\ TXLFNO\ GHYHORSHG D UHSXWDWLRQ IRU VRXUFLQJ DIIRUGDEOH DQG VXLWDEOH FRYHU IRU WKH GULYHUV RI DGDSWHG YHKLFOHV

$QG QHDUO\ KDOI D FHQWXU\ ODWHU &KDUWZHOO UHPDLQV FRPPLWWHG WR PDNLQJ WKH VRPHWLPHV VWUHVVIXO WDVN RI o QGLQJ EHVSRNH FRYHU IRU QRQ VWDQGDUG LQVXUDQFH DV KDVVOHêIUHH DV SRVVLEOH 7KH IUHH SHQ RIIHU LV DYDLODEOH RQ v $GDSWHG YHKLFOH LQVXUDQFH ZLWK VXLWDEO\ HTXLSSHG UHSODFHPHQW YHKLFOH FRYHU IRU DQ\ GULYHU D PDQXDO ZKHHOFKDLU ZKLOH VWRZHG XS to £1500, and cover for DOWHUQDWLYH WUDYHO H[SHQVHV v 0RELOLW\ VFRRWHUV DQG SRZHU ZKHHOFKDLUV LQFOXGLQJ d PLOOLRQ SXEOLF OLDELOLW\ FRYHU EUHDNGRZQ and overseas cover.

Premiums start from just £62 per year.

v ,QGHSHQGHQW OLYLQJ LQVXUDQFH LQFOXGLQJ HPSOR\HUV DQG SXEOLF OLDELOLW\ SHUVRQDO DFFLGHQW OHJDO GLVSXWHV FRYHU IUDXG QHJOLJHQFH DQG WKHIW IRU WKRVH ZKR HPSOR\ WKHLU RZQ FDUHUV v +RPH LQVXUDQFH LQFOXGLQJ FRYHU IRU DGDSWDWLRQV VXFK DV VWDLUOLIWV EDWKV HWF PRELOLW\ HTXLSPHQW LQFOXGLQJ PDQXDO ZKHHOFKDLUV DQG HTXLSPHQW ORDQHG IURP WKH 1+6 v 7UDYHO LQVXUDQFH LQFOXGLQJ FRYHU IRU SUHêH[LVWLQJ PHGLFDO FRQGLWLRQV ORVV RI PHGLFDWLRQ ZKHHOFKDLUV DQG PRELOLW\ DLGV DQG D UHSODFHPHQW FDUHU VKRXOG \RXUV IDOO LOO 7R JUDE D IUHH SHQ MXVW JHW D TXRWH E\ FDOOLQJ RU YLVLW FKDUWZHOOLQVXUDQFH FR XN DQG UHTXHVW D FDOO EDFN 7HUPV DQG &RQGLWLRQV DSSO\ SOHDVH VHH WKH ZHEVLWH IRU GHWDLOV

Specialist insurance for the disabled community &KDUWZHOO ,QVXUDQFH KDV D SURXG KLVWRU\ DV D SLRQHHU RI VSHFLDOLVW FRYHU IRU SHRSOH ZLWK GLVDELOLWLHV IURP DGDSWHG YHKLFOHV WR PRELOLW\ VFRRWHUV DQG WUDYHO WR KRPH insurance. )RXQGHG LQ E\ $GULDQ )OX[ KLPVHOI D GLVDEOHG PRWRULVW WKH FRPSDQ\ TXLFNO\ GHYHORSHG D UHSXWDWLRQ IRU VRXUFLQJ DIIRUGDEOH DQG VXLWDEOH FRYHU IRU WKH GULYHUV RI DGDSWHG YHKLFOHV $QG QHDUO\ KDOI D FHQWXU\ ODWHU &KDUWZHOO UHPDLQV FRPPLWWHG WR PDNLQJ WKH VRPHWLPHV VWUHVVIXO WDVN RI o QGLQJ EHVSRNH FRYHU IRU QRQ VWDQGDUG LQVXUDQFH DV KDVVOHêIUHH DV SRVVLEOH &KDUWZHOO V UDQJH RI SROLFLHV LQFOXGHV v $GDSWHG YHKLFOH LQVXUDQFH ZLWK VXLWDEO\ HTXLSSHG UHSODFHPHQW YHKLFOH FRYHU IRU DQ\ GULYHU D PDQXDO ZKHHOFKDLU ZKLOH stowed up to £1500, and cover for DOWHUQDWLYH WUDYHO H[SHQVHV v 0RELOLW\ VFRRWHUV DQG SRZHU ZKHHOFKDLUV LQFOXGLQJ d PLOOLRQ SXEOLF OLDELOLW\ FRYHU

breakdown, and overseas cover. Premiums start from just £52 per year. v 0RELOLW\ DGDSWHG KRPH LQVXUDQFH LQFOXGLQJ FRYHU IRU VWDLUOLIWV DGDSWHG EDWKV PDQXDO ZKHHOFKDLUV DQG HTXLSPHQW RQ ORDQ IURP WKH 1+6 v 7UDYHO LQVXUDQFH LQFOXGLQJ FRYHU IRU SUHêH[LVWLQJ PHGLFDO FRQGLWLRQV DQG GLVDELOLWLHV ORVV RI PHGLFDWLRQ DQG FRVW RI XUJHQW UHSODFHPHQW ZKHHOFKDLUV DQG RWKHU PRELOLW\ DLGV DQG WKH FRVW RI p \LQJ RXW D UHSODFHPHQW FDUHU VKRXOG \RXUV IDOO LOO v $GDSWHG WULNH LQVXUDQFH v &RPSHWLWLYH PRWRUF\FOH LQVXUDQFH 0DQ\ PDLQVWUHDP LQVXUHUV UHIXVH WR FRYHU DGDSWHG YHKLFOHV RU QRQ VWDQGDUG KRPHV RU ZLOO ORDG WKH SUHPLXPV VLJQLo FDQWO\ VR LW SD\V WR DSSURDFK D VSHFLDOLVW EURNHU OLNH &KDUWZHOO WR PDNH VXUH RI WKH ULJKW FRYHU DW WKH ULJKW SULFH For more information, contact 0800 089 RU YLVLW ZZZ FKDUWZHOOLQVXUDQFH FR XN

Chartwell Insurance has vast experience in the disabled motoring sector.

For more information, call 0800 089 0146 or visit chartwellinsurance.co.uk Chartwell Insurance Services, East Winch Hall, East Winch, King’s Lynn, Norfolk, PE32 1HN Authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority

West Norfolk: Then and Now

History

1930s?

2014

A TRIP DOWN THE HIGH STREET...

Thanks to KL magazine reader DF Moore for sending us this postcard of the High Street in King’s Lynn, which she thinks dates from the 1930s.

Hunters’ window is what ‘window shopping’ was made for, there was a library in WH Smith – and you can just KLmagazine March 2014

see one of David Greig’s delivery vans in the background. Can you spot any more details? For more photographs of how things used to be in King’s Lynn and the surrounding area, contact Picture Norfolk – at the Norfolk Heritage Centre, Norfolk and Norwich Millennium Library, The Forum,

Millennium Plain, Norwich, Norfolk NR2 1AW. We’ll be bringing you another nostalgic look at West Norfolk next month.

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

23

' (( ,% &(' $& &$ '' $# !7 & # !- * 5 " ! & ! ) ! +"' $ "" ! & &# $ & &

$

"$

! *&

+

( $+

*# $& #$" ' & !") ! ! ""$ ! ! % #! " # &&(

$

%

""$% & $"" & ! %# +% " ! & ( ! "'$ & ! & $"" % ")$"" ) $ # % "! !

" ! & "'$ &$ *# $& (

& $$+ "'!& $ "$

$

&

$(

8 # ($% $%: # # :' -## $& ) ! # 7 " &7 # ' %# 7 !)" # 9 ( # 7 ( #' 9 ( &$$"' # (( &$$"' ($$5

$

% "'!&% (

!6 4.110 3.2304

+++5" " '5 $5)

www.norfolklets.com 24

: " )& -7 # :' -## 04 / "! +, $

+

#

&'$ +

!""!

KLmagazine March 2014

MORE COMFOR

T!

L MORE CONTRO S! & MORE SAVING

THE LATEST TECHNOLOGY!

Why choose air source heating for your home?

The inside story with Steve Simpson of 4 Way Refrigeration Ltd...

Q A

I’ve heard about it, but how does air source heating actually work?

Air source heat pump technology (ASHP) maximises the use of ‘free heat’ from the outside air by collecting it, even when the external temperature is below zero. This air (the ‘free heat’) is then compressed to a higher temperature by the system itself, which then efficiently heats the water of your heating and hot water systems.

Q A

That makes sense – but just how efficient is it?

How many times do you fill the bath with hot water that’s too hot and then have to use cold water to cool it down?

There’s a lot of wasted energy there. Air source heating enables you to heat water to an ideal temperature so you only pay for what you use. It makes so much sense and it obviously makes a significant impact on energy usage and cost.

Q A

Is this a good solution to choose for a new build project?

For a number of reasons it’s a perfect solution for a new build property. When it comes to planning permission, projects with better energy ratings are always looked on more favourably. Because air source

KLmagazine March 2014

heating is a totally integrated system you only need one fuel in the property, so it also cuts down on utility usage. And with no direct emissions, no ignition, no burners and no need for a flue, it’s very a eco-friendly and cost-effective method of heating your home.

Q A

In the long term, will the installation of air source heating affect the re-sale value of my home?

It will certainly make a difference to prospective purchasers. Buyers are becoming increasingly eco-conscious and will look at a property’s energy efficiency rating as part of the decision-making process. Air source heating will help your property be more appealing – and the lower running costs will be an added attraction for potential buyers. Typically, for every 4kw of heat the system generates only 1kw is

actually paid for. And that’s attractive in anyone’s book!

Q A

It can save money, but how much does the system cost?

Because each project is approached individually and is influenced by factors such as the size of the property and energy usage, the cost is hugely variable. Bigger installations will obviously cost more – but the good news is that the long-term savings are naturally greater too!

Q A

All those energy and cost savings sound too good to be true. Are they?

The facts and the figures speak for themselves – it only sounds amazing because it is amazing! Give us a call and see what a difference 4 Way Refrigeration Ltd can make to you and your home – and your energy bills!

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

25

To complement our new build Georgian-style dwelling, we were particularly keen to have the doo rs and windows to suit. Whilst it was possible to have a builder’s solu tion, we chose to have Economy Windows supply and install the whole complement of glazed products. We were able to visit the showroom, discuss the options, choose our products, have a surveyor measure the apertures, and most importantly have them all fitted when it suited the builder. Once we’d moved into the house, Economy Windows sent their team in to fine tune and check every door and wind ow (all 17 items!) to our satisfaction. Cred it to the folk for working in the rain all day – they even took their shoes off when working indoors! We can only say a big than k you to all the staff for a job well don e, and we would thoroughly recommend Economy Windows in the future!

– John and Carol Miles Wymondham

Every picture tells a story: and all with happy endings! ith over 25 years’ experience to call on and a reputation as one of the very best home improvement businesses in the area, ECOnomy Windows doesn’t have to make too much of a song and dance about the quality of their products or their service. The family-owned and operated company prefers to let customers do the talking – and with over 18,000 local installations to date, that’s a lot of customers and a lot of talking.

From windows to conservatories, from doors to orangeries, every project is approached on a totally individual basis – and every project benefits from a dedicated team that oversees every stage from survey to final manufacture and installation, keeping the customer fully informed

W

at all times. As you can see from the handful of customers featured on these pages, that’s an approach that works wonders, and results in complete satisfaction and exceeded expectations. This is a level of customer service that consistently results in people taking time out of their busy lives and making a point of putting their feelings in writing – and even sometimes in verse!

Whether you’re simply thinking of replacing a few windows (the company fits A-rated windows as standard) or adding a stunning multifunction conservatory to your home, begin your own happy story by contacting ECOnomy Windows today. In addition to a GGF insurance-backed guarantee for total peace of mind you’ll also be assured of a very happy ending!

The fitters were very polite and tidy, and the whole team worked very well . We are absolutely delighted with the end result and would happily recommend Economy Windows to all our friends and fami ly for a thoroughly professional project.

– Mr and Mrs M Walton Highway

On recommendation from my sister, brother-in-law and mother as they all had previous work done by Economy Windows, we placed an order as we knew they provided an excellent standard of service and quality. The installers were punctual, polite and obliging – and they tidied up very professionally when they’d finished the installation. I am a truly satisfied customer and am very happy with the work carried out. Thank you.

– Mr S King’s Lynn

I would like to take this opportunity to thank you for your excellent service. The fitters did a brilliant job, they were polite, efficient (as were all the staff) and left everywhere clean and tidy. They are superb products and I have received many compliments from visitors. I would recommend Economy Windows to anybody.

– Mr Shepherd

Up The Workers We hoped to get the ‘A’ team, But Geoff and Darren came inste ad!

However, they were brilliant And with lots of tea were fed.

They really make good housew ives, As they clear up every night!

But first thing in the morning, They’re not such a pretty sight!

But seriously now – you both are great, You’ve pulled out all the stops, And now the Conservatory’s finis hed, We do think you’re the tops!

Better mention Ian and his brick work, He’s a marvel – loves his tea!

Good job he does the work real quick, Or sugarless we’d be!

So altogether – what a team, Economy Windows you’re the best , Even Little Jim and Chris were supe r, You’re so much better than the rest!

We were extremely pleased with the service we received from all members of staff from start to finish. We would highly recommend Economy Windows and would definitely use them again. The fitters were particularly courteous, clean and tidy when they installed our new windows and entrance door – and we are very pleased and satisfied with the products.

Thank you so much everyone!

– Mr & Mrs D Wisbech

– Penny & Jack Waldock

NEW CONSERVATORY SHOW SITE AND E DISTRIBUTION CENTR

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

00

KLmagazine March 2014

Local Life

ABOVE: Hardwick Road Cemetery is blessed with a collection of outstanding funerary monuments, several of which are about to be restored

A vital monument to the history of King’s Lynn...

As the Friends of Hardwick Road Cemetery embark on a major restoration project, KL magazine meets Chairman Julian Litten to talk about the site’s importance to the heritage of the town.

E

very day thousands of people enter King’s Lynn along the Hardwick Road, few of them probably giving much attention to the cemetery that spans both sides of the road. Little do they know that as they pass by the Hardwick Road Cemetery, they’re also passing through one of the town’s most remarkable historical archives.

Not only did its establishment in 1849 mark it out as one of the first parochial cemeteries in the country (anticipating the Burial (Beyond the Metropolis) Act of 1854 by five years), Hardwick Road Cemetery was also the first to cater for non-conformists and to have a dedicated section for Roman Catholics.

KLmagazine March 2014

It was also the first municipal cemetery in England to have a mortuary, and the innovations even extended to the landscaping. Hugely impressive today, the cemetery’s giant redwood trees were planted in 1856 – barely a year after the very first specimens arrived in the country.

However, the cemetery’s central importance rests (quite literally) with its residents. It’s a staggering thought, but here you’ll find everyone who died in King’s Lynn between 1856-1939 – and their monuments are a social history in stone of one of town’s most important periods of development.

Here you’ll find merchants with a social conscience, mayors, industry

leaders, founders of local newspapers and members of important and influential families. But you’ll also find the people at the other end of the spectrum – from the workers who died in early industrial accidents to the coachman who worked for the founder of the Fitzwilliam Museum. There are sailors who died in fishing tragedies and people who died in the 1863 crash on the King’s Lynn to Hunstanton railway.

And fittingly, you’ll find the important sculptor William Brown, whose amazing funerary work can be found throughout the cemetery – although strangely his own monument (and he’d undoubtedly agree) is somewhat underwhelming.

29

Local Life

Promoting the cemetery’s importance, safeguarding its restoration and preserving it for the future is at the heart of the Friends of Hardwick Road Cemetery, a local society which was launched on 31st May 2006.

“The value of Hardwick Road Cemetery to the town is enormous,” says the society’s Chairman Dr Julian Litten. “It really does offer us a unique glimpse into the life of the town at an important stage – at every level.

Because we still have the original layout and pathways, even the design is fascinating. You can literally see that the social divide between the classes existed even in death.”

The work of the Friends is about to enter a particularly exciting stage as they embark on a major restoration project aided by the recent award of a generous £100,000 grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund.

“We’ve selected seven important monuments from the mid-19th century to restore,” says Julian, “although it’s probably fairer to say they selected themselves! They include the monument of sculptor William Brown and the beautiful tiled memorial to his wife Mary, who also died in the 1863 train crash. The monument of wine merchant John Green and his son was very badly damaged by the great storm of 1987, but we’ll now be able to restore that as well.”

The project isn’t just about restoration, though. The work will also include the production of a series of information boards and an expanded educational trail, bringing the cemetery’s importance to a wider audience.

It’s a great time to visit the cemetery and you can’t fail to come away with a new perspective on the history of King’s Lynn and the people who made it.

It’s also an ideal opportunity to join the Friends in their vital work.

“There’s always plenty of things to do here!” says Julian. “People can help with minor landscaping work, or they can record inscriptions and undertake research – and I guarantee they’ll find it endlessly rewarding! The cemetery is of vital importance to King’s Lynn and it has plenty of national significance too, and all the help we can get is really appreciated.”

ABOVE: The monuments of John Green (damaged by the great storm of 1987) and Mary Brown (below left) are just two that will benefit from the restoration project, which has been funded by a £100,000 grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund.

> For details on joining the Friends of Hardwick Road Cemetery and for more information on the cemetery’s history and development, see www.hardwickroadcemetery.co.uk.

30

KLmagazine March 2014

Tamar Nurseries Plant Centre & Cash and Carry Senior Citizen Day

10% DISCOUNT - THURSDAYS

OPEN SATURDAYS FROM 22nd Marc h

E S TA B L I S H E D S I N C E 1 9 7 9

Excellent Quality Stock all at Wholesale prices OPENING TIMES: Monday-Friday 8am-4pm, Saturday 9am-4pm, Bank holidays 10am-4pm

School Road, West Walton, Wisbech PE14 7DS Tel: 01945 464383 ext 2 E-mail: cashandcarry@tamarnurseries.co.uk Web: www.tamarnurseries.co.uk

Celebrating 30 YEARS service to the local community.

5 Station Road, Heacham, King’s Lynn, Norfolk PE31 7HG. 01485 571789 | arcoworkshop@posmail.co.uk | www.arcotoolhire.co.uk KLmagazine March 2014

31

ICE FOR YOU – THE TOTAL SERV Y! DEN MACHINER AND YOUR GAR

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 can chip it, cut it, grind it, strim it, mow it, mix it, mulch it, blow it, bend it... we can mend it!

We are dealers for: Toro, Kubota, Countax, Webb, Stihl, Efco, Briggs & Stratton, Weibang, Handy, Air-Seal Products, Lawn King.

Now also Classen & Little Wonder!

R &B

d We men ! w o m yo u

–

Count on it.

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

BY APPOINTMENT TO HM QUEEN ELIZABETH II WASTE DISPOSAL CONTRACTORS

Garden Centre Coffee Shop Aquatics Reptile Centre Tools and accessories Bird feeding products

atoes Seed pot able l now avai

Your waste is our business!

Baco-Compak (Norfolk) Ltd For skip hire, recycling and wheelie bin supply, hazardous and liquid waste removal.

ZERDO FILL

N TO LA

Recycled Cardboard, Plastic, Metal, Glass, Electrical Waste, Rubble, Wood & Soil. Long and short-term contracts available

Poppyfields Drive | Snettisham | Norfolk PE31 7UD Telephone: 01485 544638 32

Established for over 40 Years!

Innisfree Trading Estate, Bawsey, King's Lynn, Norfolk, PE32 1EX 01553 630247 | www.baco-compak.com | sales@baco-compak.com KLmagazine March 2014

Pets

AnimalMatters Our monthly look at the issues concerning you and your pets with Alex Dallas of the London Road Veterinary Centre...

Dog diseases and lungworm Some of you may have heard recent reports of a new disease affecting dogs, mainly ones which have been for walks in the New Forest. The dogs showed skin wounds, then went into kidney failure, and sadly only a few survived.

Some reports have made a link with a similar condition seen in America, but in truth the whole picture is still unclear.

The main message however, is that we have seen nothing like this locally – and I wish to allay the fear of any dog owners. Of course, if your pet seems ill then early prompt treatment is the correct course, but for now I won’t be treating the Dallas dogs any differently.

And while I’m at it, there’s also a lot of publicity at the moment about lungworm in dogs, as two rival drug companies push their particular products. Again, this is a condition I’m pleased to say we see very rarely, and with regular worming under veterinary advice your pet isn’t at risk. Oh, that feels better!

Despite all the stories in the media and on the internet, the best source of relevant advice is always your local vet.

Going the extra mile...

T here’s a pub in Stow Bardolph that I’ve frequented from time to time over my many years in West Norfolk. When you arrive you’re greeted warmly and served promptly and made to feel special at all times.

The service is friendly and efficient and when you leave you’re thanked for your custom and you know you’ll be back!

I’ve driven a Volvo for about 10 years now, which I have serviced at a local garage. Here again, whenever I arrive for a service or whatever, I’m greeted and welcomed, and treated on a personal level, and everyone is helpful and efficient.

These are the standards we strive to offer at our veterinary practices. In practice meetings we use these businesses as examples of good service to emulate.

Our receptionists are chosen to be “people people” and to welcome and assist clients on arrival, and departure.

Our nurses care passionately about the patients, but as animal owners themselves they understand what the owners need. The philosophy the vets

follow is good veterinary medicine – doing for your pets exactly what we would do for our own, and in a friendly, understanding, and committed manner.

Some of this must sound so obvious – but we’ve all had occasions where at a restaurant or making a purchase the experience is ruined by an individual who gives less than the attention you would expect.

Equally, how good does it feel when someone goes that extra mile for you and turns a good experience into a great one?

We have the added difficulty that our clients are often anxious and worried, and for us to deal with those emotions helpfully and kindly is another aim for us to achieve.

The truth is that ours is a true vocation. To everyone – the reception team, the nursing staff and the vets – the outcomes really do matter, more than you could imagine. We all genuinely want to do our best and to see satisfied clients and pets made better in an atmosphere that’s open and friendly.

Your pets Thanks to LINDA and GRAHAM of Great Massingham for this lovely picture of Custard’s impression of a ‘cat on the tiles’ – which is a nightly routine as the Aga apparently goes into sleep mode at 9pm, so it’s nice and cosy at 11-ish! 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 March 2014

33

16

KLmagazine March 2014

Local Life

ABOVE: Nothing encapsulates the meaning of spring quite like newborn lambs

There’s more to lambs than the arrival of spring People have been working with sheep for over 11,000 years so it’s no wonder they’re so deeply rooted in our belief systems.

With the arrival of spring, we take a look at lambs and sheep...

S

pring. It’s a time for eggs and baby chicks, for flowers and for bunnies, but most of all it’s a time for newborn lambs.

Nothing’s quite as springlike (or as likely to raise your spirits) as seeing lambs gambolling in the fields – indeed, have you ever heard the word ‘gambolling’ used to describe anything other than lambs?

It’s no surprise that we have such an enduring love of lambs. After all, we’ve had a close working relationship with them for thousands of years, and they’re consequently (and as we’ll see shortly) deeply rooted in our religion and mythology.

KLmagazine March 2014

What may come as a surprise, however, is that the UK actually produces more sheep than any other country in Europe. Of the EU’s currently estimated sheep population of some 96 million, 33 million of them – almost a third of the total – come from the UK. Go north of the border (Scotland, not Lincolnshire) and you'll find more sheep than people. Last June, the Scottish sheep population was 6.57 million (47% of them were lambs) compared with only 5.3 million people.

In fact, Scotland is a great destination for sheep aficionados. It’s home to Europe’s biggest one-day sheep and lamb sale (in Lairg) and what may well

be the world’s biggest one-day ram sale in Kelso (it’s been held since 1836), where more than 5,000 rams were offered for sale last year.

If you fancy having one of your own, however, you’d best get saving as buying a ram can cost thousands. In 2009 a male lamb called Deveronvale Perfection was sold for £231,000. That’s almost twice the price of the UK’s previously most expensive sheep, who was called Tophill Joe and fathered lambs worth more than £1 million.

The more you learn about sheep, the more they continue to amaze you. For example, they can live remarkably long lives. Two years ago, the recognised

35

PICTURE: CHRISTIAN WAGNER

Local Life

holder of the World’s Oldest Sheep title (her name was Lucky and she lived in Australia) died aged 23, a fact which caught the attention of North Tolsta farmer John Maciver.

Particularly since John, who lives (you guessed it) in Scotland, had a blackface ewe whose ear tag showed she was almost 26 years old at the time.

Sadly, later that year she died following a fall.

Since we know that people were keeping sheep nearly 11,000 years ago, it’s hardly surprising that they’re so prevalent in both religion and mythology.

Around 5,000 years ago, the ancient Sumerians (for whom sheep were by far the most important part of the economy) immortalised the animal in the form of various gods and goddesses, much like the ancient Egyptians – whose creator god Khnum (he was one of the very earliest Egyptian gods) had the head of a ram.

Rams heads have also been found in ancient shrines in Turkey, suggesting some form of religious significance, while sheep play a significant part in Greek mythology, most notably in the well-known legend of Jason’s search for the Golden Fleece.

As Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Moses and King David were all shepherds, it’s no wonder that sheep and shepherds are

36

mentioned no less than 247 times in the Bible – and if you ask someone to name a Psalm, virtually all of them will quote the 23rd, which begins “the Lord is my shepherd...”

The symbolism of sheep and lambs is a particularly important part of the Christian tradition. Jesus is often referred to as a shepherd and his followers as a flock, and he is often given the title Lamb of God – the suffering of the Crucifixion made analogous to being a sacrificial lamb.

That’s probably why in Christian writings the lamb represents innocence, gentleness, peacefulness and patience under suffering.

Although sheep have less signifcance in Buddhism, it’s said that a ram was present at the birth of Buddha, and a Tibetan ritual involves driving a sheep around the monastery walls by a pilgrim reciting prayers to gain merit and improve karma – and the sheep is then happily allowed to live out the remainder of its life in peace.

In Western astrology the very first sign of the zodiac is the ram (Aires) while the Sheep is considered the most artistic or creative sign of the Chinese zodiac. Sheep are probably held in the highest esteem in Madagascar, where they’re said to be the incarnations of human souls and are consequently very well looked after – and not eaten.

Of course, if you want some real ‘hands-on’ experience, now’s the perfect time. Lambing is a great experience (it’s not just for children!) and seeing ewes with their newborn lambs as they take their first steps is a truly special moment – possibly only beaten by the opportunity to bottlefeed some of the youngsters.

Local centres such as Snettisham Park, Church Farm Rare Breeds Centre at Stow Bardolph and Melsop Farm Park all offer special lambing events, and you should check their respective websites for details and timings.

There’s no better way to celebrate the start of Spring.

KLmagazine March 2014

Fashion

fashion

It’s a new season – which means it’s time to spring into step with new colours and new styles for the fashionconscious among us.

Town or countryside, day or night – our local boutiques are packed with great looks this Spring...

38

Dress by Michaela Louisa (£130) ELIZABETH DARBY | Fakenham 01328 855312 KLmagazine March 2014

Black & White/Fuscia 2-piece

by Doris Streich (£159) CINDYS | Sutton Bridge 01406 350961

The Spring/Summer 2014 Collection by Ilse Jacobsen NELLE–DK | Thornham 01485 525164 KLmagazine March 2014

39

Fashion

Kemble jersey by Toggi (£60) CHRISTOPHER WILLIAM COUNTRY | Creake Abbey 01328 738983 40

KLmagazine March 2014

spring/summer collections for all the family at bearts of stowbridge brighton mill stowbridge, king’s lynn, pe34 3pd tel. 01366 388151 | www.bearts.co.uk

High Chic At Allez Chic find us at: The Green, East Rudham Kings Lynn, PE31 8RD -Next to The Crown Inn-

The Spring Fashion Event Saturday 22nd March Congham Hall, Grimston 1.30pm for 2pm | Tickets £15

Introducing Warwick, our new menswear range.

In aid of theAstro Brain Tumour Fund To book please call Christine on: 01485 572767 or email: info@astrofund.org.uk

Soroptimists Charity Fashion Show Thursday 3rd April Le Strange Arms, Old Hunstanton Fashion, fizz and canapes 7pm for 7.30pm | Tickets £15 In aid of Norfolk Young Carers To book please call Sue on 01553 760705 or June on 01760 788084

Tel: 01485 528457 | Mobile: 07951 930776 Website: www.allezchic.co.uk Email: cheryldaubney@allezchic.co.uk

KLmagazine March 2014

Visit us in store or online The Old Applestore,Drove Orchards, Thornham,Norfolk, PE36 6LS Tel. 07990593750

www.nelle-dk.co.uk 41

Fashion

Julietta top by Jack Murphy (ÂŁ49) EVERYTHING OUTDOOR | Holkham and Sandringham 01328 712120 42

KLmagazine March 2014

FASHION SHOW & AFTERNOON TEA Dermalogica skin care.

Demonstration by Janet Time Out. Wednesday 9th April At The Curlew Centre, Sutton Bridge.

Show starts 1.30pm.

Tickets £10 available from Cindy’s

Cindy’s

Si zes 10 - 26 |O pen in g t im es 9a m - 5p m C l osed We dn esd ays and Sund ays

108 Bridge Road, Sutton Bridge, Lincs PE12 9SA Tel: 01406 350961

ww w.c indy sfas hions.c o .uk

Everything Outdoor

E lizabethD arby of Sutton Bridge

Everything Outdoor - it’s more about a lifestyle than a range of clothing Spring/Summer new season arrivals from Jack Murphy, Alice Collins, Target Dry, Vedoneire and many more.

50% OFF 2013 TWEED until the end of March.

Perfect gifts for Mother’s Day Open Daily

The Reading Rooms, Holkham Village (Opposite Adnams) Norfolk NR23 1RG Tel: 01328 712120

www.everythingoutdoor.co.uk Sandringham Visitor Centre Sandringham Estate, Norfolk PE35 6EH Tel: 01485 298082 KLmagazine March 2014

SPRING SUMMER 2014 COLLECTION

FAKENHAM

6 Dereham Road, Hempton, Fakenham NR21 7AB tel: 01328 855312 www.elizabethdarby.co.uk 43

Boss Orange at Goddards

I

ndependent mindsets, freespirited lifestyles and understated style statements – that’s the thinking behind Hugo Boss’ casual yet classy approach to menswear. Welcome to BOSS ORANGE at Goddards – a collection that effortlessly manages to put great looks front and centre while maintaining a sense of quality and sophistication.

At Goddards in King’s Lynn, you’ll find a fantastic selection from the new BOSS ORANGE Spring 2014 collection – including jackets, jeans, knitwear, t-shirts, and a selection of fashion accessories.

“The introduction of Boss Orange to our menswear collection is very exciting,” says Goddard’s Manager Gary Tillott, “and the relaxed, contemporary look sits perfectly alongside our other prestigious menswear brands such as Ralph Lauren, Ted Baker, Gant and Lyle & Scott.”

Subtle, colourful and undeniably cool, the Boss Orange range of urban casualwear is perfect for men looking to create a truly individual style.

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 44

KLmagazine March 2014

Health Beauty with Amanda Moore, Norfolk Laser & Beauty Clinic

ls and New arrivam ents! new treat

Roxanne Runce and Julia Hadley join the team!

Get ready for the beach!

Y

ou’ve got the holiday booked, you’ve got your passport checked and you’ve got your summer outfit sorted – now all that’s left is to make those all-important beauty appointments!

At holiday time, unwanted hair is about as welcome as a strike by air traffic controllers, but as you’ve no doubt discovered already, shaving can bring you out in spots, and waxing carries the risk of ingrown hairs.

That’s why the laser option is such an attractive solution. One of the best response areas for laser treatment is under the arms and bikini line, and at the Norfolk Laser & Beauty Clinic we have the very latest pain-free technology with the Harmony XL multi platform, which has a built-in cooling tip and uses an ‘in-motion’ action – so there are no missed areas and no down time. A large rectangular window emitting a broad spectrum light is applied to the surface of the skin, and the energy travels (harmlessly) through the epidermis until it strikes the hair follicle – destroying the hair-producing

cells surrounding the follicle with no damage to the surrounding area.

You’ll be pleased to learn that we can also help you with the sun-damaged areas commonly known as ‘age’ or ‘liver’ spots, evening out and toning the skin. In addition to being a perfect preholiday treatment it’s also a fantastic confidence-booster for mothers of the bride (or the bride herself!) and as I discovered many times last year, it really can work wonders for how people feel about themselves.

At the Norfolk Laser & Beauty Clinic we also offer many complementary treatments including manicures and pedicures (using CND shellac), eyebrow tinting and re-shaping, eyelash tinting, organic skincare products from Neal’s Yard of Covent Garden, hot stone and lava shell massage, and facials using Repcom’s amazing Swissdermyl products.

Whatever you’ve got planned over the next few months, please give us a call – and we’ll help you look your very best!

At the Norfolk Laser & Beauty Clinic, we’re also delighted to have the lovely ROXANNE RUNCE with us, who comes from the Lodge Clinic in Bury St Edmunds and brings with her over 13 years’ experience in the beauty and aesthetics industry. Professionally trained by Nouveau Contour, Roxy is responsible for our permanent make-up treatments, which start from £300 and currently include: l Lip liner and lip blush l Beauty spots l 3d hairstroke brow effects l Powdered brow effects l Eyelash enhancments l Bottom and top eyeliner We’re also very lucky to have JULIA HADLEY RGN with us to offer a range of aesthetic treatments such as dermal fillers (from £250) – a quick and non-invasive treatment for wrinkles and facial lines that can produce a more youthful appearance and is particularly effective around the eyes, nose and mouth.

Fillers can also be used to enhance and hydrate the lips to provide extra definition and volume, and best of all there’s virtually no recovery time!

IT’S A DATE! Appointments with Roxy and Julia will be available on Wednesday 28th May and Monday June 16th – contact us using the details below for further information or to book an appointment.

Amanda

Burrell House, High Road, Islington, King’s Lynn PE34 3BL tel: 01553 886428 / 07786 448181 web: www.norfolklaserandbeautyclinic.com / www.thelodgeclinic.co.uk e-mail: amanda.moore1@btconnect.com KLmagazine March 2014

45

New Year, New Smile! our teeth whitening products:

OPALESCENCE GO ‘Off the shelf’ whitening system

COLGATE WHITENING GEL Customised whitening system

Both dentists at Castle Rising Dental Surgery are very experienced in a wide range of cosmetic procedures.

• Teeth whitening, now • Late evening and Saturday 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 RING PROFESSIONAL OFFE .

RS LE FIL D AN X TO BO

• 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.

MANDY O T OST L LOS IN JUST 7 MONTHS

Serving the local community since 1996

BEFORE

Contact LighterLife Counsellor Whetheryour you’ve a lot or a little to lose,

East Barn, Castle Rising, King’s Lynn, Norfolk, PE31 6AG Tel: 01553 631094 E-mail: info@castlerisingdentist.co.uk Web: www.castlerisingdentist.co.uk

Tel: we 07919 have a550554 programme for you. deborah.mcglynnhale@lighterlifecounsellor.com Name, Area 18 Tuesday Market Place, King’s Lynn, PE30 1JW 0800 123 4567 lighterlife.com/name

Visit lighterlife.com ©LighterLife UK Limited 2013. All rights reserved.

46

KLmagazine March 2014

YOU & YOUR HEALTH with BMI The Sandringham Hospital

It’s all about making people feel confident in themselves that they’re ready to go home...

Getting well – and sooner!

R

ecently, I came across a fascinating new study that found a significant link between marriage and the health of men’s bones. It sounds a particularly odd concept, but the research – which appeared in the professional journal Osteoporosis International – found that men who married when they were younger than 25 had around 25% lower bone strength than men who married for the first time at a later age.

While we’re still not entirely sure how social (as opposed to socioeconomic) factors affect general bone health, there’s no doubt that the general field of orthopedics – and the people needing surgery – is growing by the day.

In the UK it’s estimated that over 70% of people will experience some form of back pain during their lives. More than 25% of people over the age of 60 experience significant pain and disability from osteoarthritis, while just over three million women over 50 in the UK currently suffer from osteoporosis.

These are the people who benefit from the extensive range of orthopedic services

available from BMI The Sandringham Hospital, and while they’re treated to the very best possible care we can give them during their stay with us, one of our most successful recent initiatives has been in the field of enhanced recovery.

Three years ago, joint replacement patients would be with us for an average of five days. Today, they’re usually with us for only two or three days, and we’re hoping to shorten that further in the future.

Actually, my last four patients (two hips and two knees) were home in only two days, but it’s not simply a case of discharging people as soon as possible – though no one likes staying in hospital!

It’s all about making people feel confident in themselves that they’re ready to go home.

Reducing the amount of time our patients stay at the hospital involves everyone in the healthcare team, whether they’re a surgeon, nurse, domestic staff or a porter. Everyone has a part to play, and just one negative comment can have a real impact on the patient’s outlook.

Everyone has the positive experience of the patient as their number one priority.

The very first time we meet with patients, we’ll talk to them about when they can realistically expect to go home.

It enables them to be prepared and to make any necessary arrangements at home – because it’s very true that people recover much better in their own homes.

The whole process of early discharge and enhanced recovery has many elements, but at BMI The Sandringham Hospital we’re with patients every step of the way (quite literally some times!), developing an individual programme based on their particular needs and circumstances and ensuring a sense of post-operative continuity.

At the end of the day, we’re here to deliver a high-quality outcome and a great experience for each and every patient – and we’re making great strides in that respect. In the most recent Patient Reported Outcome Measures national analysis, BMI The Sandringham Hospital was rated as the 12th best hospital in the whole country for hip replacements.

It’s always nice when you get recognition such as that, but it’s even nicer to meet our patients, care for them, and make a genuine difference to their lives.

Hilary Tudor Senior Physiotherapy Manager BMI The Sandringham Hospital

Serious about health. Passionate about care.

For more information, please call BMI The Sandringham Hospital on 01553 769770 or visit us at www.bmihealthcare.co.uk/sandringham KLmagazine March 2014

47

XXXXXXXXX

46

KLmagazine March 2014

Local Life

ABOVE: Ellie Chalmers with just a few of her sheep – she says they’re the real stars behind her range of locally-produced cheeses

Ellie’s sheep – and their award-winning cheeses Inspired by a lifelong love of sheep and helped by a friendly flock of Frieslands, Ellie Chalmers has created a range of awardwinning cheeses at the wonderful setting of Bircham Windmill

B

ircham Windmill is reputed to be one of the very best windmills remaining in Norfolk – and today it’s the only working windmill in the area open to the public. Visitors are always entranced by the fact bread is still produced in the bakery adjoining the mill (which contains the original coal-fired oven) and most of them simply can’t resist taking away a loaf or two when they leave.

And what better accompaniment to freshly-baked bread could there be than some award-winning cheese?

Even more so when it’s been lovingly produced at the very same site.

Ellie Chalmers’ love of sheep started

KLmagazine March 2014

with her first job at 17, when she helped with lambing at Snettisham Park.

“I’ve always loved working with sheep,” she says. “I even went to New Zealand – where there are far more sheep than people – for a while, before returning to England and studying Animal Science at Newcastle University.

I was even voted the Top Sheep Student of England at some point!”

Following a spell as a contract shepherdess in Northumberland, Ellie returned to Norfolk to help her husband Stevie run the family business

at Bircham Windmill.

“I loved the work,” she remembers, “but I did miss the sheep an awful lot – so I decided to have a little flock of my own and start milking them.”

Thanks to her sheep, Ellie then found she had more milk than she knew what to do with, but with the help of local cheese producer Jane Murray and a 20litre cheese vat from Ebay (to put that into perspective, commercial cheese vats generally have a capacity of at least 500 litres), she started experimenting and making her own sheep’s milk cheese.

49

Local Life

ABOVE: Ellie’s sheep don’t just make great cheese – they make pretty good racers too!

It was shortly after that Bircham Windmill had a visitor from Dorset in the shape of John Norman, who was a friend of famous cheese expert and author Rita Ash and had actually once made an award-winning cheese himself.

“John was really interested and enthusiastic about our early efforts,” says Ellie, “and even though he’d given up producing cheese himself, he very kindly gave us his recipe – and both he and Rita were invaluable in helping us produce the quality of cheese we wanted.”

Thus, Norfolk Charm was born. A Wensleydale-style cheese with a distinctive flavour and texture that takes three months to mature, Ellie’s debut cheese was a real success, coming third at the International Cheese Awards 2010 in Nantwich.

From there, Ellie has expanded the range to include Chilli Charm (Norfolk Charm with a wonderful spicy hit), Millstone Blue (a blue cheese loosely based on a roquefort recipe), a selection of natural yoghurts (they’re thicker and sweeter than yoghurt produced from cows’ milk) and Millers Fancy.

A feta-style cheese that Jane Murray helped Ellie develop, Millers Fancy has a less salty flavour than traditional feta 50

(thanks to the dry salting process) and was judged good enough to appear in Gordon Thorburn’s Top 10 Cheeses in the December 2012 edition of Best of British.

“We owe a huge debt to our cheesemaker Jules Harrowing,” says Ellie. “She’s always thinking of new things to try and ways to improve our cheeses. If you love the cheese, you really do have to thank Jules.”

Not only can you buy Ellie’s cheese at Bircham Windmill (they’re also available at a number of farm shops and delis in the area such as Walsingham Farm Shops and Creake Abbey), you can also watch the sheep being milked every day at 2pm and (on Saturdays) meet Jules Harrowing and see the cheese-making process in action. Visit the windmill at the end of May for Country Day and you’ll even see the sheep racing!

And there’s no doubt that Ellie’s flock is the main attraction.

“Of course there’s a great sense of achievement in having set the whole thing up,” says Ellie, “and it’s very satistying to hear from people who’ve enjoyed the cheese – but by far the best bit is the daily contact with the sheep. They’re the real stars.”

For further information and opening times, see Bircham Windmill’s website at www.birchamwindmill.co.uk KLmagazine March 2014

www.kingsoakkitchens.co.uk HUNSTANTON 2-4 Northgate Precinct (opp. Natwest, High Street) Hunstanton PE36 6EA | Tel: 01485 534965 KING’S LYNN 48 Bergen Way (next to Citroen) North Lynn Industrial Estate King’s Lynn, Norfolk PE30 2JG | Tel: 01553 762749

KLmagazine March 2014

51

Food & Drink

For the love of cod... od is an important member of the whole family of fish that includes haddock, coley, pollack, whiting, ling and hake. All the fish in this group are sea fish of varying sizes and share similar characteristics – such as the juicy low-fat white flesh that falls into large, moist flakes when cooked. The bones in cod are large but they’re very easily removed. Our enduring love of eating cod (it’s by far the most popular fish for fish ‘n’ chips) has meant that stocks have suffered greatly from over-fishing. Some stocks of Atlantic cod from Iceland, the North East Arctic and Eastern Baltic are considered sustainable, as well as Pacific cod that’s caught in Alaskan waters via longline. To help reserve cod stocks, we’re all encouraged to eat a greater range of white fish, such as the sustainable pollack, pouting (bib) or coley. And if you do eat cod, ensure it’s clearly labelled (with the MSC blue tick for example) as coming from a properly managed, sustainable fishery.

C

52

CHOOSING...

Although small cod (around 700g) are sometimes available, most cod is large, and is most often sold as fillets and loins, or cut crossways into cutlets with a central bone. You’ll also find cod is available whole and headless, coldsmoked, dried or salted.

PREPARATION...

Fresh cod is incredibly versatile. You can skin or pin-bone fillets either before or after cooking. The flaky flesh works well poached, baked, fried or grilled and it also complements rich sauces. It doesn’t have to be deep-fried in batter – cod is excellent in fishcakes, fish pies, tempura and chowder. And as for portions, you should generally allow around 125-175g (filleted) or 225-250g (fish on the bone) per person.

COOKING...

Small cod can be braised, poached or roasted. Fillets and cutlets can be baked, braised, grilled, microwaved,

pan-fried, poached or steamed (we told you it was versatile!) The distinctive flavour of cod really holds its own, so it’s perfect for cooking with strong herbs and spices, or with pungent Mediterranean-style tomato sauces.

If you fancy making a cod-based soup, stew or curry, choose cod loin and cut it into chunks.

A QUICK RECIPE...

Although the picture above looks mighty impressive, this is a remarkably quick and easy recipe that really works well. Simply mix ¼ cup of flour with some sea salt, pepper and garlic salt.

Rinse the cod, pat dry and then lightly dip in the mixture until both sides are covered. Sear both sides of the cod in a hot pan with a teaspoon of extra virgin olive oil until it’s crispy and brown.

Remove from the heat, add some freshly-sqeezed lemon juice and then spread some pesto on top. We’ll leave the accompanying dressing and presentation to you!

KLmagazine March 2014

A mouthwatering selection of locally sourced produce, freshly prepared to create a truly delicious menu Food served Tuesday-Sunday 12noon onwards

Treat your Mum this Mother’s Day with a tasty fresh fish dinner!

Don’t forget to plaice your orders for Easterwe are open Good Friday 7am-1pm Brancaster mussels and oysters Dressed crab and lobsters Local frozen game Local shellfish Fresh and smoked fish Hand-carved ham on the bone Free range eggs

Plus!

Extensive delicatessen counter with top quality cheeses and olives from home and abroad!

À LA CARTE

Come in and try our chef’s cuisine using the finest fresh, local ingredients cooked into delicious dishes

FRESH FISH FRIDAYS

Try crevettes in garlic and white wine, salmon in wild mushrooms sauce, baked plaice with lemon and caper butter - whatever the catch

SUNDAY LUNCHES

One course £10.95 - choice of Rare Roast Norfolk Sirloin or Pork

SNACKS & LIGHT LUNCHES Available daily - two courses £10.95

Under new Management!

D NALDS NS A fresh taste of the sea

Austin Fields, King’s Lynn | Tel: 01553 772241 OPEN: Tues/Wed 7am-4pm, Thurs/Fri 7am-5pm, Sat 7am-3pm

Ling Common Road, North Wootton, King's Lynn, Norfolk, PE30 3RE. Tel: 01553 631323

Beautiful Bespoke KITCHENS on display. MASSIVE CHOICE at an excellent price.

OPEN Nelson House, Bergen Way, King’s Lynn

Mon to Fri: 9am - 5pm Sat & Sun: 10am - 4pm

Call us today on 01553 766578

KITCHENS | BEDROOMS | BATHROOMS KLmagazine March 2014

or visit us at www.towncountrykitchens.com

53

La Capanna a real taste of Italy

*(3,@ /(33 HOTEL

Ă€ LA CARTE MENU

Celebrate

Mother’s Day

Pop in for morning coffee, a lunchtime treat, afternoon tea or dine by candlelight in our award winning restaurant, open daily to non-residents serving food all day every day.

with us on Sunday 30th March Book your table now to avoid disappointment.

SUNDAY LUNCH 12-2.30pm 1 course: ÂŁ10.95, 2 courses: ÂŁ15.95, 3 courses: ÂŁ20.95

Sunday Lunch

LUNCH TIME SPECIAL Soup, half a sandwich and a coffee for only ÂŁ6.50 when you present this advert.

12.00 - 2.30

Join us for a traditional Sunday roast.

Opening Times Wednesday - Saturday 12.00 - 2.00 6.30 - 9.30

QUIZ NIGHT: Thursday 27 March, 8pm BOOK NOW FOR MOTHER’S DAY

Sunday 30 March

La Capanna Restaurant School Road Terrington St John Wisbech Cambs 01945 880099 www.lacapanna.biz

'&

"! "! &&&

54

'&

!& $

For more details and to view our current menus and special offers please visit www.caleyhallhotel.co.uk VSK O\UZ[HU[VU YVHK VSK O\UZ[HU[VU UVYMVSR WL OO [LS

'& # !%

"

$

$

!" ! # ! !

50 KLmagazine March 2014

It’s time for a new taste of Charmed Interiors...

D

ownham Market’s hidden gem isn’t just for inspired ideas for your home – Charmed Interiors also has a lovely tearoom that’s hard to beat. If you’ve never been before, you’re in for a real treat – and regular visitors will notice there’s been some exciting changes – including the revamping of the kitchen, and the granting of an alcohol licence – which means the tearoom now offers a wider choice of meals, a warmer welcome and an even better experience.

KLmagazine March 2014

The Charmed Interiors tearoom is open from 9am-4pm Monday to Saturday, and every day starts with a complete range of breakfasts (available to 11.30am), including cheese on toast, scrambled eggs, bacon and sausage sandwiches and full English breakfasts.

At lunchtime, there’s a tempting choice of daily specials (don’t miss Thursdays, as it’s Roast Day!) plus homemade soups, omelettes, burgers, jacket potatoes, scampi and chips – and a wide selection of sandwiches, baguettes and toasties, all freshly made to order. Although it’s a lovely place to sit and enjoy your lunch, plenty of people are discovering that you can even take a taste of Charmed Interiors away with you.

“Our takeaway lunches are really popular,” says Charmed Interiors’ Jason Sutton. “You can phone in your order in the morning and then come and collect it at lunchtime. For people working in the area and people in a bit of a rush, it’s the ideal way to enjoy some of our great food.”

Although hot food is available to 3.30pm, afternoon is the perfect time to sample of one Charmed Interiors’ delicious homemade cakes or scones – together with a coffee (made just the way you like it) or a tea. Don’t miss the chance to try one of the speciality blends such as lemon and ginger tea, strawberry and mango tea, and even cranberry and raspberry tea.

Oh, and if you’re still in need of a treat, you can relax with a glass of wine (also available by the bottle) or a beer.

We can’t wait for summer – when Charmed Interiors will be introducing traditional afternoon teas and the weather will be nice enough to enjoy some Pimms on the seating outside the barn.

Charmed indeed!

information

Charmed Interiors The Hythe, Bridge Road, Downham Market, Norfolk PE38 0AE Tel: 01366 384126 Web: www.charmed-interiors.co.uk

55

Food & Drink

Rosemary & Parmesan Crusted Lamb Racks with Mash Potato & Red Wine Jus Recipe by Paul Hegeman | Photography by Jason Hamilton INGREDIENTS Preparation: 20 min Cooking: 30 min Serves: 4 4 lamb racks (four cutlets each, trimmed and cleaned of excess fat) 2 bunches rosemary 2-3 cloves garlic, finely chopped 3 tbsp freshly grated Parmesan 2 cups breadcrumbs 2 cups plain flour 2 eggs Milk Extra virgin olive oil Butter Sea salt flakes Freshly ground black pepper

METHOD 1 Remove the lamb from the fridge about an hour prior to cooking, as this will ensure even cooking. Preheat oven to 180o (350o Fahrenheit).

2 Place eggs into a mixing bowl and beat slightly, add a good splash of milk, 2 tablespoons of olive oil and mix well.

3 Place the breadcrumbs in another bowl, add the Parmesan, garlic, rosemary, season liberally with salt and pepper and mix ingredients together.

4 Take the racks one at a time and roll the loin part in the flour, being careful to get flour only on the meat.

5 Take the floured lamb racks and dip the floured part in the egg wash, allowing the excess to drip off for a couple of

56

seconds and place in the breadcrumb bowl.

6 Gently cover the wet part of the racks with the crumbs and gently push on the crumbs ensuring the entire loin is crumbed.

7 Once all racks have been crumbed, place a pan on medium heat, add enough oil to cover the base of the pan and add 2 tablespoons of butter.

8 Lightly brown the racks on all sides and set on an oven tray (make sure the racks are standing up straight). Bake for 12 minutes (rare), 18 minutes (medium) or 23 minutes (well done). Let the racks rest outside the oven for about 5-8 minutes before serving. Racks can be either cut into cutlets for serving or left as a whole rack.

KLmagazine March 2014

Your Wedding Your Choice

Your wedding reception can be large or small, whether you choose to enjoy an intimate celebration with family and close friends in our historic Nelson room, or something more lavish in our spacious, modern Walpole Ballroom.

Our wedding planner is happy to discuss with you your plans to ensure your bespoke wedding is tailored exactly the way you want.

Late Availability Wedding Package for just £4500 Restrictions apply Available January to June 2014

thelegacydukesheadhotel

events@dukesheadhotel.com | www.dukesheadhotel.com

Tel. 08444 119 484 | Quote KLMW14 for 10% off your wedding

DUKES HEAD HOTEL

5-6 Tuesday Market Place, King’s Lynn Norfolk, PE30 1JS

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

KLmagazine March 2014

57

"

;

" " 0.9 :

#05#45+% (11& (+345 %.#44 4'37+%' # )3'#5 #5/142*'3' #0& 3'#. 7#.6' (13 /10'9

!

N IN

TH E

CTORY I V

Traditional Country Pub

Real Ales, Warm & Friendly Atmosphere, Fresh Home Cooked Food, Ample Parking

l

Now taking bookings for Mother’s Day

Open from

12 noon

everyday

food served tuesday

TEL: 01553 775668

- sunday

MAIN ROAD, CLENCHWARtON, KING’S LYNN

At the Sandboy

Home of Traditional Stone Ground Flour, Milling & Baking.

"16;3' +07+5'& 51 ,1+0 5*' (60 15 #0& %1.& $6(('5 (11& 2#359 $#)4 $#..1104 %#-' +07+5#5+104 %*1+%' 1( #%5+7+59 #0& .154 /13' 11- 51&#9 0.9 :

2'3 %*+.&

.'0%*8#3510 1#& !'45 900 +0);4 900

'.

58

SANDBOY PUDDING CLUB

Tuesday 4th March at 7.30 and the first Tuesday of every month. | £10 a ticket booked in advance.

Yummy puddings to eat along with demonstrations, quizzes etc.

£5.95

Don’t forget our Available every day

Menu!

Tel. 01553 630527 www.denvermills.co.uk KLmagazine March 2014

Food & Drink

RestaurantReview

A touch of spice – and plenty of great food...

The Spice Inn on London Road brings a taste of the east to King’s Lynn – with a feast of authentic flavours and a first-class service

W

hether you’re a seasoned connoisseur of traditional eastern cuisine or you fancy seeking some adventurous new flavours to challenge your taste buds, The Spice Inn has something to satisfy every appetite.

The management and staff of the recently-opened restaurant on London Road in King’s Lynn are dedicated to offering outstanding food and a quality service – and that’s something that's very clear at every moment, with every mouthful.

The restaurant has a warmly welcoming interior, and has a wonderfullycontemporary feel – thanks largely to the low-level lighting and the subtle decor.

There’s a lot of attention to detail here, and every detail adds to the atmosphere.

Despite being located on one of the main roads into (and out of) King’s Lynn, The Spice Inn is quiet and relaxing – and the impeccably polite and friendly staff ensure you enjoy a first-class service throughout.

While enjoying some delightfully light poppadoms (with some truly lovely dips and chutneys), we took our time with The Spice Inn’s comprehensive menu, which was an enjoyable enough experience in itself. In addition to a complete choice of traditional curries, there’s an amazing range of Tandoori specialities, seafood and duck

KLmagazine March 2014

course from the set menu (together with delicacies, Tawa specials, authentic Balti and rice or naan) for only £8.95 per person. From vegetarian dishes, and no less than 27 Friday to Sunday, you can select any starter, mouthwatering Master Chef Creations. any main course and a vegetable side dish From a tantalising choice of 24 starters, from the à la carte menu (together with rice we decided to sample the Aam Tikka Puree or naan) for only £9.95 per person. Note that (diced baked potatoes and chicken in a spicy Banquet Nights need to be booked in mango sauce) and Paneer Shaslick (cubes of advance – but it’s a great way to enjoy The tandoor-cooked Indian cheese with onions, Spice Inn experience. peppers and mushrooms). This was followed On the menu, you’ll find it written that ‘the

by Butter Chicken, a Prawn Madras and a essence of good food is time’ – and as soon Murgi Manchurian – the latter being tender as possible you should make time to visit strips of chicken cooked with a host of The Spice Inn in King’s Lynn. spices in a Tandoori masala sauce. The main For amazing food in a fabulous location, courses were accompanied by a trio of rices you’ll find it very hard to beat.

(Lemon, Keema and Mushroom), a cheese naan and a side dish of garlic mushrooms.

The food was beautifully presented, and one comment that was common to all was that the different flavours and contrasting spices were perfectly-balanced. There’s a huge variety of dishes in eastern cuisine, and when it’s good it’s very good indeed. At The Spice Inn it’s simply outstanding.

FOOD SERVICE VALUE Although dining in the restaurant is a pleasure not-to-be-missed, The Spice Inn also offers a complete takeaway service (with free home delivery within a 4-mile radius on orders THE SPICE INN over £12), and don’t miss the Banquet Nights option. From 2 London Road, King’s Lynn PE30 5PY Monday to Thursday you can Tel: 01553 277814 enjoy any starter and any main Web: www.spiceinnkingslynn.co.uk

9

9 10 10 10 10

59

Food & Drink

RestaurantReview With the luck of the Irish, KL magazine visits Worzals for the newly-extended restaurant’s first of many special themed evenings...

W

ith the alterations to the restaurant completed and the bar and grill fast becoming established as a popular local attraction, Worzals have recently decided to spice things up a little and hold a series of themed evenings – which have been planned to take place regularly over the rest of the year. KL magazine decided it was a great opportunity to sample some of the culinary (and musical) delights on offer as Worzals’ hosted a special Irish-themed evening, together with a twopiece folk band specially brought over from the Emerald Isle for the evening’s entertainment.

From the moment the band started to play the vibrance of the Gaelic tones and lyrics had everyone singing and tapping along with the songs.

The evening was divided into two parts, allowing the food to be served before the more robust second set – which had the dancefloor packed with people having what can only be described as a stomping good time. No one had a problem singing along to the traditional favourites which never seemed to stop coming from the band’s apparently-endless repertoire.

We were served our food in truly appropriate style with a variety of green glass platters and plates to decorate the tables and make the food look as splendid as it tasted. With the waiting staff all dressed in black it all looked a very polished affair, with a very efficient service to match.

I chose the Prawn Cocktail to start with, which was mixed with thin slivers of crisp lettuce and presented beautifully on the plate – top marks for both taste and for presentation! My partner chose the Leek and Potato soup, which was served in a large shallow bowl nicely topped with fried onions to enhance the authentic taste – and it certainly tasted exceptionally good, or so I was told! For mains, my choice simply had to be the 28-day matured Sirloin steak (it’s

60

actually matured on the premises), which came cooked perfectly as ordered, together with a portion of steak-cut fries and salad.

The steak itself was truly ‘melt in your mouth’ tender and it was interesting to see that everyone who ordered it enthused in much the same way.

My partner chose the pan-fried Salmon steak, which was served with a delicious accompaniment of parmentier potatoes, chantenay carrots and curly kale – all topped with a tarragon, white wine and cheese sauce.

The verdict was that it had the most delicate of textures and was a good-sized (very filling) portion which tasted just as good as it looked on the plate – and it looked superb.

For dessert, I chose the Guinness Pudding, which was cleverly made to resemble a pint of the black stuff – with a chocolate base topped with vanilla-flavoured cream. It looked great and it was really quite delicious.

I should have ordered two!

My partner decided to have the Baileys cheesecake, which was served with a shot of Baileys in a chocolate cup – the choice of either pouring it on the cheesecake or simply drinking it being left to you. It was a lovely little touch.

From start to finish, we were treated to a splendidly well-organised evening packed with fun. The food was truly excellent and the entertainment was brilliant.

Look out for Worzals’ next themed evening – Irish and traditional toe-tapping favourites with Rock & Paddy on March FOOD SERVICE VALUE 21st and 22nd. Get a group of friends together and book your places by calling Worzals now. You’ll enjoy a wonderful atmosphere, a friendly and professional service, and a WORZALS BAR & GRILL menu overflowing with great Lynn Road, Walton Highway PE14 7DA locally-produced tastes and real Tel: 01945 582231 value for money.

Web: www.worzals.com Brilliant.

9

10

9

10 10 10

KLmagazine March 2014

KITCHENS

50O% FF

SELECTED KITCHENS from our SHERATON & OMEGA ranges.

BEDROOMS

LunchReview I

t may not have been the best idea for four friends to meet up for a six-mile walk around Brancaster on a very cold and equally blowy Sunday, but it did give us the ideal opportunity to sample the delights of the highlyrecommended Creake Abbey Café, which is (as the name suggests) situated near the historic ruins of Creake Abbey in north Norfolk.

To be honest, the welcome couldn’t have been warmer – thanks mainly to the really bubbly and friendly staff, although the delightfully warm AGA we sat near also played its part in taking the chill of the day off!

The café has a very relaxed and contemporary interior – and I couldn’t help noticing that the lighting is particularly clever, managing to give the large and airy open space a particularly comfortable and intimate touch.

There was an imaginative and very tempting seasonal lunch menu on the blackboard, a very good children’s menu (nice to see there’s even a toybox for summer days on the terrace), a great selection of freshly-baked cakes, together with a good wine choice, Yetman’s beer (which is brewed just outside Holt) and hot, cold and soft drinks.

Between us, we ordered a Ham and Piccalilli sandwich, a Smoked Salmon sandwich with watercress and cream cheese, an Apple and Cinnamon Crumble (with custard) and a Spotted Dick with lemon sauce. All meals arrived fresh and beautifully presented – and the portions were very generous.

The quality of the food was faultless throughout (the Spotted Dick was voted “delicious, absolutely delicious”) and everyone remarked how pleased they were with their choice.

Best of all, some of those local tastes can be taken home with you, thanks to the café’s large food hall, which has a wonderful deli counter, charcuterie, a butchers, wines, beers, breads... you name it! Oh, and if you have the time, it’s well worth exploring the collection of beautiful shops at Creake Abbey – and make a day of it!

CREAKE ABBEY CAFÉ & FOOD HALL North Creake, North Norfolk, Norfolk NR21 9LF Telephone: 01328 730399 Website: www.creakeabbeycafe.com

KLmagazine March 2014

BATHROOMS

Full design & installation (or supply only) Appliances & Tiles available Monday to Friday 9am - 5pm, Saturday 9am - 4.30pm

! !

!!!

" 61

Food & Drink

Biscuits If anyone can recommend a good locally-produced biscuit for your next cup of tea, it’s Hannah Hughes of Strattons Hotel – whose CoCoes café and deli offer some truly amazing tastes: LAVENDER MELTS Delightful thin rich shortbread made with Heygates Farms plain flour, farmhouse butter from Rob Christie at Swaffham Market, and dried lavender flowers from Strattons’ very own bushes at the hotel. The rich oil from the lavender gives a characteristic perfume along with a lovely kick of pepper.

CHOCOLATE SWIRL SHORTBREAD Plain and rich chocolate combined in a roll using 80% cocoa solid bitter chocolate and local Heygates flour. The very same chocolate mix is used to make Strattons’ signature biscuits for the room pillows – shaped as cats!

BINHAM BLUE NUT COOKIES Lovely little bites of wet walnuts from Les & Vanessa Scott’s garden combined with an award-winning Norfolk cheese – a wonderful combination that’s perfect with a dry sherry for a pre-dinner nibble.

ANZAC BISCUITS Made at CoCoes during April to celebrate Anzac Day, these hugely popular biscuits are made from local Beachamwell honey, rolled oats and raisins from the vine that grows on the south facing wall of the hotel. Truly local, truly scrumptious.

62

KLmagazine March 2014

Enjoy some of the best food in Norfolk A fabulous menu, a great bar with local beers, excellent service, and the opportunity to stay overnight – it’s no wonder that The Duck Inn at Stanhoe is so popular...

L

ocated just a few miles from the beautiful North Norfolk coast and Burnham Market, the Duck Inn at Stanhoe is a wonderfully friendly family-run pub and restaurant that offers visitors, diners and drinkers the very best of Norfolk hospitality.

The hugely popular restaurant makes the most of locally-grown and produced food, with a daily choice of Duck Specials that highlight the best tastes Norfolk has to offer – while the Bar Bites menu imaginatively bridges the gap between a full meal and a pub snack. Don’t miss the chance to try the famous Mr H Scotch Egg or the amazing Lager & Lime Whitebait!

In the bar you’ll find a tempting range award-winning local beers from Elgood & Sons, together with a carefullychosen wine selection full of elegant

bouquets from both the old and the new world.

For special occasions and private parties, the Duck Inn’s charming Garden Party Room is welcoming and full of character – and the outdoor snug is perfect for relaxing outside, weather permitting (although you’ll be pleased to learn that it’s heated too!)

And if you’d like to extend your stay at the Duck Inn a bit longer, the rooms are finished to a very high standard of comfort and full of guest-friendly features – and naturally, the inn’s breakfast is a marvellous way to start the day.

Fantastic food, brilliant service, lovely location – welcome to the Duck Inn!

The Duck Inn

information

Burnham Road, Stanhoe, King’s Lynn, Norfolk PE31 8QD Tel: 01485 518330 Web: www.duckinn.co.uk

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

The Angel WHAT’S ON Poker Nights

Every Wednesday at 8pm

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)

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

BOOK NOW FOR

MOTHER’S DAY

Sunday 30th March Booking essential 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 KLmagazine March 2014

63

60

KLmagazine March 2014

PICTURE: BRUCE PEARSON

Local Life

ABOVE: Conservationist, birdwatcher and fisherman Jon Brown cruises the creeks around Brancaster Staithe aboard Laura May

A new view of Norfolk’s natural environment If you think you know the North Norfolk coastline, it’s time to take a different look at the area’s important flora and fauna – thanks to Branta Cruises. KL magazine visits Brancaster Staithe...

E

very week at Brancaster Staithe you’ll see people from Norfolk and further afield enjoying everything this beautiful part of the county has to offer. This lovely section of the Norfolk Coastal Footpath overlooking the salt marshes rewards every visit, the views from Barrow Common are simply breathtaking, and there are plenty of great places to stop for some Norfolk hospitality and some great locally produced food.

It’s no wonder people return time and again to enjoy the area, but now there’s a way to take a slightly different view of this precious environment thanks to

KLmagazine March 2014

Jon Brown and his Orkney day boat Laura May. Jon and his wife Judith only started Branta Cruises three years ago, but they’ve already made over 1,000 trips through the creeks and around Scolt Head Island, showing visitors (whether they’re native to Norfolk or not!) the enormous diversity of the local wildlife.

And Jon should know what he’s talking about – after all, he’s walked and worked in the area every day for the past 50 years.

“We came to a point where we wanted to take charge of our own destinies and started thinking about the direction of our lives,” remembers

Judith. “We’ve always been passionate about the wildlife and landscape that surrounds us and how we can preserve it. We wanted to give something back and educate people about their natural environment, hopefully enriching their experience of Norfolk.”

The couple bought a brand new Orkney 522 day boat – big enough for up to six people at a time, and tough enough to take a moderate seaway in her stride – and christened it Laura May, after the late daughter of a longtime family friend and wildlife artist.

“It’s a lovely boat for cruising,” says Judith. “It’s perfect for exploring all the creeks, and it’s really nice to have that 65

Local Life

ABOVE: Branta Cruises allow you to get a closer view of Norfolk’s natural beauty

sense of Laura still being with us.”

The cruises – which run from around April to the end of the summer – enable you to enjoy an unprecedented look at the wildlife and wilderness of this part of the North Norfolk coast in the company of an experienced local fisherman, birdwatcher and conservationist.

It’s a great way of learning about both the fragile habitat and the history and character of the coastline.

“We never tell people what they’re likely to see,” says Judith, “as it’s totally unpredictable. Every trip is different, and every trip usually has a surprise or two. That's all part of the magic – it’s much more about getting a taste of the place and a feel for the wildlife.”

One thing you will be guaranteed of, however, is coming back to shore having learned something new.

Did you know that the leaves of sea purslane are thick and succulent and can add a lovely crunchy texture to a salad? Did you know the National Trust bought Scolt Head Island from the Earl of Leicester in 1923 for £500? Did you know that the wall of Brancaster’s Roman fort originally lay directly on the seashore? Oh, and did you know that Branta Cruises was named after the Brent Goose (whose Latin name is branta bernicla)?

It’s not surprising that people come away invigorated and full of enthusiasm.

“Over the years we’ve taken people from all across Norfolk and from places

66

as far afield as Scotland and Canada,” says Judith, “and we’re still waiting for our first negative comment! They’re people of all ages and from all walks of life but they all love having things pointed out to them that they’d ordinarily have missed. They really appreciate it – and many of them keep coming back for more!”

Part of the appeal is undoubtedly Jon’s expertise – whether it’s the intricacies of local trade in Roman times or which of the plants you pass by are edible, it’s clear he has a particularly close relationship with the environment and a deep understanding of it.

For a different look at Norfolk’s priceless natural heritage, it’s a wonderful experience.

For more details on Branta Cruises, call 01485 211132, e-mail judithneeves@btconnect.com or visit www.brantacruises.co.uk.

KLmagazine March 2014

THE LAVENDER KITCHEN

Located at Norfolk Lavender, Caley Mill

Join us on Friday 28th March 2014 for a glorious meal in praise of the pig!

Our Head Chef, Russell, has created a fantastic menu that celebrates the versatility of this wonderful meat:

Menu on the evening • A glass of warm, mulled cider or local apple juice

• Pork rillettes, crispy pigs ears, spiced apple chutney & toasts

• Pork belly, black pudding & ham hock croquettes, buttered savoy cabbage & pork jus • Apple & Almond tart with Calvados cream & Apple crisp

All for only £25 per person Call 01485 571965 (booking essential)

www.lavenderkitchen.com Part of the Walsingham Farms Shop Partnership we are dedicated to providing the very best in local and seasonal produce.

Your home – Supreme Carpets style

Lings Country Goods for all your country pursuits

QUALITY &

BARBOUR | DUBARRY MUSTO | SCHÖFFEL LE CHAMEAU | CHRYSALIS TOGGI | HUCKLECOTE DEERHUNTER | SEELAND HARKILA | ZOO

SERVICE AT ITS BEST

Personal choice professional service and a world of quality for your floors!

• Domestic, Laminate, Vinyl and Wood Flooring • Quality 80/20 wool carpets • Stainfree carpets • Natural Flooring (Seagrass, Sisal, Coir and Jute) • Home Selection Specialists

Supreme Carpets Ltd SHOWROOM OPEN: Monday to Friday 11am - 5pm, Sat 10am - 2pm

Foresters Hall, 49 Manor Road, Dersingham King's Lynn, PE31 6LH

tel: 01485 542384 web: www.supreme-carpets.com

KLmagazine March 2014

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

67

WA RMING THE H E A RT O F YO U R H O ME

ARCADIA HOME HEATING LTD

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.

King's Lynn 01553 661333 Fakenham 01328 800369

www.arcadiahomeheating.co.uk

+ !& ,!)+ # %

-

"

"

!

&$ )*!

#!, ( - !%)* ## -

)

(

"

*&- ( )*(

* "!% /) #.%%

--- &&' ( % 68

''#! %

#$)

& +" KLmagazine March 2014

Boris gives us his seal of approval Metric Carpets

N

othing much gets past Boris these days. He’s got a real nose for details, and if anything’s not quite right, he’ll soon sniff it out – so when you want to take a good long look at the service offered by Metric Carpets, Boris is your man.

The first thing Boris will notice is the amount of time and effort Metric Carpets spends on ensuring you get the very best from your floors. It means from your very first enquiry you’ll have plenty of samples to take home and see how they look in your actual home (and there’s plenty more choice where they came from!) It means you’re choosing from some of the very best British carpets currently available, and it also means you’re fully informed as to the suitability of the particular carpet(s) for the room(s) in question.

Boris is always impressed with the way Metric Carpets offers advice on

those little details that sometimes get overlooked – whether or not your underlay needs some attention, whether your doors will need cutting, and whether your grippers will need replacing. Getting it right from the start will ensure your new carpet performs just as good as it looks.

And because Boris is a stickler for the reliability of his walks, he’s always impressed by the fact Metric Carpets never keeps the customer waiting and always turn up when they say they will. What really gets his tail wagging is learning that if required, Metric Carpets will deliver your flooring at least 24 hours before fitting – so it has time to settle and adjust naturally to the temperature of the room. It makes

METRIC CARPETS TOP TIPS: Frequent vacuuming will actually prolong the life of your carpet as it will prevent the build-up of gritty particles that can cut carpet fibres. Vacuum carpets once a week (more often in areas of heavy traffic) and every few weeks take a little extra time and use your crevice tool for cleaning around baseboards and radiators and in other hard-to-reach places.

KLmagazine March 2014

all the difference to a truly professional fit.

Having learned the importance of cleanliness as a puppy, Boris always takes particular note of the care Metric Carpets takes with your home.

They always send a 2-man team, and make sure all the messy work is done in the van. Going that extra mile, they’ll move and replace your furniture, vacuum after installation, and even clean you floor after lifting the old carpet and before fitting the new one. That’s all part of the service too! That’s why most people don’t even pay a deposit – they only pay when they’re completely happy with their new carpet. And as Boris can confirm, happy customers are what Metric Carpets are all about. Good dog.

And great carpets!

i

information

Metric Carpets 36 Norfolk Street, King’s Lynn PE30 1AH Tel: 01553 775203 Web: metriccarpets.co.uk E-mail: info@metriccarpets.co.uk

69

74

KLmagazine March 2014

PICTURES: PEBBLES PHOTOGRAPHY / NORFOLK FISHING TRIPS & CHARTER

Local Life

ABOVE: A day to remember – thanks to the luxury catamaran Katie Louise and the team at Norfolk Fishing Trips & Charter

Say hello to Katie Louise and a day to remember Hop aboard one of the UK’s most powerful charter boats for a unique day out in Norfolk – and discover why so many people love fishing! Welcome to Norfolk Fishing Trips & Charter...

F

or most of his adult life Adam Wright worked as Head Chef in a number of local hotels, and when he wasn’t creating mouthwatering dishes he was following his lifelong love of fishing.

Descended from a long line of local fishermen (and ultimately Lowestoftbased shipbuilders), Adam decided to combine both passions and created Norfolk Fishing Trips & Charter – which offers you the chance to power across the waters on one of the UK’s most powerful charter boats before enjoying a spot of fishing and sampling some

KLmagazine March 2014

exquisite food prepared in the galley.

From April to September, Norfolk Fishing Trips & Charter are based at Brancaster Staithe, an area with a long maritime tradition (during the winter, the trips operate from the Royal Norfolk and Suffolk Marina in Lowestoft). In addition to being close to some of the best unspoilt beaches in the UK, the whole Brancaster bay is delightfully rich in wildlife – much of which can be seen on the 10-minute ferry that takes you out to the wonderful Katie Louise and her experienced and friendly skipper Robin Southerland (who also comes

from a long-established fishing family).

The Katie Louise – which was custom-built for Adam by Gemini Workshops in 2006 – is a beautiful luxury catamaran that’s 40 times more stable than mono-hulled vessels, making the whole experience comfortable, safe and enjoyable for everyone. The Katie Louise has central heating, a spacious and well-appointed wheelhouse, and the deck is large enough for 10 fishing stations.

Of course, the fishing is where the real fun begins. You can choose to go on a 3½-hour trip for mackerel and

71

PICTURES: PEBBLES PHOTOGRAPHY / NORFOLK FISHING TRIPS & CHARTER

Local Life

bass or take the full 8½-hour adventure on the search for tope, mackerel, bass and skate.

On the longer trips, one of the day’s many highlights is enjoying a delicious buffet lunch created with locallysourced produce. It’s a great opportunity to relax with the crew, admire the views, and share your fishing stories – the long ones and the tall ones!

It’s an experience you won’t soon forget – especially as all the sizeable fish caught (apart from the tope, which are tagged and released) can be taken home with you to eat later. In addition to the fish already mentioned (and depending on the time of year) you could be reeling in cod, dogfish, smooth hounds and whiting. Best of all, novices and children are more than welcome aboard – as the crew are more than happy to share their experience and offer tuition as required.

Norfolk Fishing Trips & Charter also offer a selection of gift vouchers and individually-arranged corporate days (when you have the boat to yourselves!) which both make for unforgettable days out.

Times of trips are naturally dependent on the tides, but for up-to-date availability and to make bookings you should visit the website at www.norfolkfishingtrips.co.uk or call 01485 517610 for full details.

72

Thank you for a fantastic trip! It was a special day as it was our daughter’ s 12th birthday an d all four of us ha d a wonderful time and thoroughly enjoyed ourselves . The enthusiasm , local knowledge and brilliant ho st s made the fishing extremely successful. All th e guests mingled well and we all ha d a great time.

All 43 Mackerel we brought home were cleaned and gutte d: and our neighbours were most grateful for the extra meal! We'll be returning soon to celebrate a joint 16 th and 13th birthday!

- Mr and Mrs Ba rnes

KLmagazine March 2014

2011 Coachman Amara

2010 Bailey Pageant Monarch

• 6 Berth • Twin Axle • Motor Mover • Isabella Awning •12 Months Caravan Warranty

• 2 Berth

• Single Axle • Awning

• 12 Months Caravan Warranty

£13,495

£10,495

Come and see our selection of new and pre-owned caravans at Gayton Purchase with peace of mind and confidence that your OPEN 7 touring caravan is coming from an established company. days a week

Tel: 01553 636243 Lynn Road, Gayton, King’s Lynn

mcdonnellcaravans@fsmail.net www.mcdonnellcaravans.co.uk

+LJK VHFXULW\ VHOI VWRUDJH DW \RXU ÀQJHUWLSV + LJK VHFXULW\ VHOI VWRUDJH DW \RXU ÀQJHUWLSV ‡ KU PRQLWRUHG &&79 LQWUXGHU DQG ӾUH DODUPV ‡ %XLOGLQJV FDQ RQO\ EH DFFHVVHG E\ %LRPHWULF

VFDQQLQJ Ó¾QJHUSULQWV

‡ $FFHVV WR \RXU VWRUDJH URRP GD\V D ZHHN

DP SP

‡ 1R PLQLPXP VWD\ ‡

1R QRWLFH QHHGHG WR YDFDWH

‡ $ IRUNOLIW VHUYLFH LV DYDLODEOH ‡ %RRN RU UHVHUYH IRU IUHH ‡ 8QLWV UDQJH IURP ZDON LQ ZDUGUR

VL]H WR GRXEOH JDUDJH VL]H

Request a Quote

01553 772689 East Coast Business Park, West W est L Lynn, ynn, King’s King’s Lynn, Lynn, Norfolk, PE34 3L 3LW LW W

KLmagazine March 2014

EASTCOASTSELFSTORAGE.CO.UK EASTCOASTSELFST ORAGE.CO.UK

73

Property

A few handy tips on becoming a landlord In today’s property market, renting out a second property is becoming increasingly popular – but for the uninitiated it can be a minefield. Here are just a few of the things to be aware of...

B

ritain now has a growing nation of ‘accidental landlords’ – homeowners who decided to weather the storm of the housing market by renting out their properties. While taking on the role of landlord can be a great solution for those struggling to sell in a slow market, it requires much more than a spare set of keys for your new tenants. If you’re thinking of becoming a landlord, here are some tips on the best ways to keep you, your property and your tenants in safe hands.

law protects both you and your tenants.

1. Speak to your mortgage lender This is extremely important, as you may not be allowed to rent out your property without their permission.

5. Get an EPC certificate An Energy Performance Certificate allows interested parties to see how energy efficient the property is (though you don’t need one if you’re letting out accomodation that isn’t selfcontained).

2. Draw up a tenancy agreement Whether you get one online, from a stationers or with the help of a solicitor, having a tenancy agreement is vital for understanding the legal responsibilities you’ll have as a landlord, and how the 74

3. Get references This helps reduce the possibility of rent not being paid or damage being caused to your property.

4. Protect the deposit It’s important to get a deposit to cover against any property damage or unpaid rent – and you are legally required (on penalty of a hefty fine) to place the deposit in a Government-approved tenancy deposit scheme.

6. Check your insurance policy Some insurers will increase the cost of your premiums if you rent out your

property, and your insurance could become invalid if you don’t inform them.

7. Find out whether you need a licence If the property is to be rented to more than one household who will share facilities it may be classed as a house in multiple occupation (HMO). If this is the case, you may be required to register with the council and get a licence.

8. Declare income for tax purposes Becoming a landlord may mean you need to pay tax on the income you receive, so it’s important you declare this – particularly if you’re receiving any benefits.

This is only a few brief guidelines to just some of the many factors involved in becoming a landlord.

To ensure a trouble-free and harmonious process (for both you and for your tenants!) you should always seek professional advice and help – it will save you a lot of time and money!

KLmagazine March 2014

KLmagazine March 2014

75

80

KLmagazine March 2014

Explorer

One of the most perfect Georgian streets of England...

– Nikolaus Pevsner

A short history of the market town of Wisbech Once voted one of the ten ‘most English’ towns in Britain, Wisbech has always moved with the times – while keeping one eye firmly on its rich heritage. KL magazine looks back at its past...

W

isbech started life when the Saxons invaded eastern England and drove their way across the country in the 6th century, founding a settlement on a bank (bec) besides a marshy meadow (wisc). By the time of the Domesday Book, Wisbech was already a large village – with 350 people it was around three times as big as most other villages of the time.

In 1069 the Normans cemented their presence by building a wooden castle which was later rebuilt in stone and was eventually replaced by a bishop’s palace in 1487 – because the Bishop of Ely was also lord of the manor of

KLmagazine March 2014

Wisbech (the palace was actually built

by Oliver Cromwell’s Secretary of State). In the Middle Ages a weekly market started being held in Wisbech. In those days there were very few shops and anyone who wanted to buy or sell anything had to go to a market.

The market was originally held on Old Market (as the name suggests!) but by the 13th century it had moved to the area around the street named – naturally – Market Place.

The town gained its charter from

Richard I in 1190 and a grammar school was founded in 1392.

It surprises some people to learn that Wisbech was once a very busy port (officially it was part of the port of Lynn), but in those days it was only four miles from the sea, and a disastrous flood in 1236 killed hundreds of people. A similar disaster struck in 1587 with a severe outbreak of plague, but the fortunes of Wisbech really started improving during the mid-17th century when the Fens were drained. The newly claimed farmland was very fertile, and

77

Explorer agricultural produce such as grain, butter and rapeseed oil were exported from the town to London.

During the Civil War (1642-1646) Wisbech was in the centre of the parliamentary area, and although earthwork defences were built around the town, it managed to escape fighting. Having escaped the ravages (if not the upheaval) of the Civil War, the town suffered another severe flood in 1655 – the year before it gained its very first fire engine (it was a hand-operated pump).

The town’s population doubled between 1700-1800 and though it seems small to us these days, 4,700 people represented a considerable market town at the time. Wisbech continued to prosper, and Peckover House (which has been owned by the National Trust since 1948) was built in 1722, although it didn’t get its name for over 70 years when it was purchased by banker James Peckover.

In the 18th century Wisbech became a genteel and prosperous town – and it was still a busy port. Grain and rapeseed oil continued to be major exports and the brewing industry arrived around 1790 with the construction of the building that now houses Elgood’s Brewery.

In the 19th century Wisbech continued to go from strength to strength – the town hall was built around 1810, Joseph Medworth built the present ‘castle’ in 1816, the streets were lit by gas from 1832, and the everfascinating museum opened in 1835, 12 years before the arrival of the railway.

The corn exchange was built in 1858 and the Bridge Street memorial to Wibech-born anti-slavery campaginer Thomas Clarkson was erected in 1881.

Despite the growth of industry – which included grain exports, significant coal and timber imports, woodworking, basketmaking, light engineering and the manufacture of farm machinery – Wisbech retained its friendly and welcoming character, and it’s a genuine pleasure to visit today.

Once identified as the seventh ‘most English’ town in Britain by Sky News, Wisbech has plenty to offer the visitor, whether their interests lay in sightseeing, shopping, eating out, local history or admiring historical buildings.

Indeed, the wonderful unspoilt Georgian architecture – particularly along North Brink and The Crescent – is so impressive that’s it’s no wonder the BBC used it for their 1999 adaptation of David Copperfield or that ITV filmed their production of Micawber there in 2001.

Welcome to Wisbech!

78

KLmagazine March 2014

FLEET TIMBER SUPPLIES LTD · Agricultural & Domestic Fencing · Decking · Sleepers · Gates · Sheet Materials Please visit our website for further details A local company trading since 1999 offering competitively priced timber products and prompt delivery service. Based in Tilney St Lawrence.

Delivering to all of East Anglia.

HARDWARE STORE NOW OPEN! www.fleettimbersupplies.co.uk sales@fleettimbersupplies.co.uk Tel: 01945 881221 Fleet House, Magdalen Rd. Tilney St Lawrence, Kings Lynn, PE34 4RE

KLmagazine March 2014

79

Smith 64

KLmagazine March 2014

Ebbens

Local arts

ABOVE: Paul Ebbens’ stunning ceramics are just one of the highlights currently on show at the King’s Lynn Arts Centre

Join a feast of artwork and cultural inspiration Visit King’s Lynn Arts Centre for talented local artists, images by a French social worker, the opportunity to learn a new language and a fun way of recycling your unwanted items...

Y

ou can’t help but be amazed by the King’s Lynn Arts Centre this month, as it welcomes popular West Norfolk ceramicist Paul Ebbens back to the Shakespeare Barn. His Clay Passé exhibition offers a family-friendly collection of vibrant and exciting ceramic paintings, shields and vessels from Paul’s work over the last 10 years (although the work is as fresh today as if he made it yesterday).

The Shakespeare Barn is also home to a fascinating collection of posters from the Arts Centre archives. Perfectly located by the Pop Up Café (so you can enjoy them over a coffee) they cover 50 years of films,

KLmagazine March 2014

exhibitions and performances, and are a great reminder of just how important the Arts Centre is (and has been) to the cultural life of the area.

Meanwhile, in the Red Barn, and conjured from the ashes of the kult of voodoo fire, a new force of ‘killustration’ is born. Welcome to the World of Natcho. King Natcho in fact, better known as Andy Gatrell. A King’s Lynn based artist, Andy uses simple materials to create amazingly vivid illustrations – and the accompanying video projection provides a fascinating background to his first solo exhibition. Over in the Fermoy Galley, Norfolk artist Simon M Smith presents Mutability, a collection of fabulous

81

Gatrell

new work. A regular exhibitor at the Affordable Art Fair in London, Simon takes inspiration from his own garden, using a unique method of layering tissue paper from unwanted dress patterns to create breathtakingly beautiful canvases. Small wonder he’s been described as “one of the very best practitioners of his generation” and “a Picasso of his time.”

Finally, there’s a marvellous exhibition of photography in the Old Warehouse to coincide with International Women’s Day. Femmes Formidables is the work of French social worker Floriane Cornard, who shows the strength of women through the power of her photography. Floriane spent the end of January in King’s Lynn shooting images for the exhibition, so it has a real local and contemporary flavour. All the above exhibitions are free to enter and run until March 8th.

Despite what the name suggests, the King’s Lynn Arts Centre isn’t all about art. The recently introduced Café des Langues is a remarkable way of improving your language skills and experiencing other cultures in a relaxed, informal atmosphere. Held in the Shakespeare Barn, you can share a conversation in French or German, play a game in Latvian or Russian, or bring your own language to the table. It’s a lot of fun and a great way to promote cross-cultural cohesion in the area.

Held on the last Wednesday of every month, it only costs £3 to take part – and that includes a drink! The next opportunities to join Café des Langues are 26th March and 30th April. For an amazing evening of a rather different form of exchange, join The Barter Party.

Simply bring anything you no longer have any use for (books, clothes, jewellery, DVDs, anything except electrical items and perishables) and you’ll get a ticket for every item (up to a maximum of ten) – which can then be exchanged for any other item that takes your fancy. Only £1 to take part, the next Barter Party is on Tuesday 15th April.

At the end of the month, keep your eye out for four new exhibitions – including the aptly-named Private Collection, which offers visitors the unique opportunity to see a fascinating array of cherished possessions from private collectors – the accompanying stories of the objects and how they came to be collected are as amazing as the objects themselves.

Smith

Local arts

For details of any of the above events (and ones we haven’t even mentioned yet!) please see the Arts Centre website at www.kingslynnarts.co.uk or call 01553 779095

82

KLmagazine March 2014

Home and Garden Lifestyle Centre

Bring some sunshine into your

Home and Garden Foras Showroom and Gardens Inspirational displays and ideas

Foras Bliss Water Feature

Indoor Natural Stones, Tiles and Mosaics Outdoor Natural Stone Paving Stone Water Features, Birdbaths and Seating Home and Garden Giftware

t: 01366 381069 e: sales@foras.co.uk w: www.foras.co.uk

Foras Ltd, West Head Farm, Stowbridge, King’s Lynn, Norfolk, PE34 3NJ Open Monday -Friday 8.30am-5.30pm, Saturday 10.00 am- 4.00pm Closed Sundays and Bank Holidays

Pre-Spring Sale on Garden Accessories

ROLL END TOP END

A massive choice of top value carpets!

A huge collection of high quality carpets!

Don’t forget we also offer a wide range of vinyls, laminates and hardwood floorings

(-* *2+ ' . * $' + ! * # ' +

-* %( % , ' , #'$

'

& (! & # '$ + # + %% ,# /) *$ ' % /) *,$+ 0(- 1 ' 0(-* * 1 ' +

We offer a FREE measuring service across west and north Norfolk. "

#

% )#(' KLmagazine March 2014

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

Let us come to you!

-%% + *.$ ! $%$,$ + + *.$ 0+ $ , 0 *(! ++$(' % & # '$ + -,+, ' $'" -+,(& * + *.$ $

FREE fitting on all patterned book ranges

!

Tower Street, King’s Lynn PE30 1EJ Tel: 01553 762878 Web: www.economyflooringkl.co.uk 83

84

KLmagazine March 2014

Local Arts

Artist Helen Walker on mosaics and the WNAA For over 13 years, the West Norfolk Artists Association has been building a strong community of the area’s talented artists. Here, Helen Walker talks about how the WNAA helped her...

I

t wasn’t until later in life that I finally plucked up the courage to attend evening classes. I was a complete novice in the art world, but it was a good class and I tried many mediums, including pottery and sculpture (some of my early sculptural efforts still lurk in my garden).

When I arrived in Norfolk six years ago, my husband (who also paints) discovered Open Studios – and we had a great time exploring the county, discovering some truly outstanding work being produced by local artists.

At one of the galleries, we met Steve Martin who was then Chairman of the West Norfolk Artists Association. Thanks to his support and advice, we joined the Association, meeting some lovely (and talented) people and exhibiting at the group’s Summer Exhibition in King’s

KLmagazine March 2014

Lynn. At another Open Studio I visited, the artist worked in mosaic, which I was really impressed by. She also taught and ran workshops – one of which I attended, proudly returning home with my very first mosaic.

I was very drawn to this medium and continued to work on various projects over a period of time, quickly finding I needed more space to work and store all the bits and pieces needed. I had no studio but was soon installed in our spare room – where all the mess is contained and I can shut the door. It certainly cuts down on the constant clearing up!

My mosaic work led me naturally into the world of stained glass (in which I’d always had an interest) so I attended a one-day workshop in Spalding and signed up for a term at an afternoon

class near Holt. I learned how to cut and grind glass, mastered copper foiling and soldering, and became well and truly hooked. I’ve regularly exhibited both my mosaic and stained glass work and have been lucky enough to sell some items. Next up for me is another one-day class in Spalding to start learning how to do lead work.

Thanks to the West Norfolk Artists Association, I’ve really opened up my horizons and met a wide range of artists working in different media. It’s a great opportunity to learn tips and techniques – and it’s reassuring to know you’re not alone but part of a wider artistic community. It’s a marvellous resource for any artist.

Turn the page to find out more about the WNAA, its work and how to join.

85

Local Arts

ANDREW WILLIAMS

HELEN BREACH

SARAH BOWETT

ANDY SCORDELLIS

ANDREW SCHUMANN

JO HALPIN JONES

The West Norfolk Artists Association

T

he West Norfolk Artists Association was set up in October 2000 to promote the wealth of visual art produced by the hugely-talented artists in the area. With a membership of around 120, the WNAA is open to artists of all abilities from professionals to students, and embraces all forms of the visual arts – from painting to printing, photography to sculpture, and pottery to installation art. The Association is run on a voluntary basis by a committee of approximately ten members.

NETWORKING...

The main aim of the Association is to support members and to enable them to feel part of a wider community, rather than simply working alone. It achieves this through regular meetings, a monthly newsletter and a lively Facebook page to enable members to exchange views and ideas.

PROMOTING...

Members of the Association also benefit from the the ability to promote

86

their work through exhibitions and through the Members Gallery pages on the website. Here, brief biographical information is accompanied by images of individual members’ work and contact details.

founding members, and she sadly passed away in January 2012.

Members of the public also have their say at the Summer Exhibition, voting for their favourite work – and the winner receives the Visitors’ Choice Award.

EXHIBITING...

Although not primarily an exhibiting group, the Association has at least two exhibitions per year. The major twoweek Summer Exhibition is always held at the time of the King’s Lynn Festival, and is a very popular and well-attended event. Members are permitted to enter a maximum of four works, and there are a number of awards – including the Syd Davison Award. Named for the Association’s first Chairman (who sadly died in 2004) it is awarded to the best work in the show and is chosen by an invited guest selector.

A more recent commemorative award (introduced last year) is the Inga Miller Trophy for a particularly outstanding piece of work, as selected by the WNAA committee.

Inga was one of the Association’s

CAMPAIGNING...

The West Norfolk Artists Association has always played an active role in campaigning on behalf of West Norfolk artists when they’re faced with cuts in arts funding or other injustices. With a substantial membership, the Association can often influence events in a way simply not possible for individuals.

JOINING...

The WNAA always welcomes new members. The annual subscription is £15, but various concessions are available. Whatever your age, whatever your level of experience, whatever your chosen media, the Association is ready to meet you. You’ll find full details and a downloadable membership form on the website at www.westnorfolkartists.org

KLmagazine March 2014

By appointment to Her Majesty The Queen Pattrick & Thompsons Ltd Timber Merchants

COFFEE SHOP

Open Daily 9am - 4.30pm

Serving homemade cakes, snacks, sandwiches, daily Specials and Sunday Roast.

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

Thaxters the Gardener’s Garden Centre

• J Arthur Bowers Multi-Purpose Compost 56 Litre Only £3.99 Or Buy 3 Bags For £10

• NEW Evergreen Extreme Green Lawn Food 400m2 Only £19.99

• Kinder Garden Plants £1.10 each or 8 for £8 • Summer Flowering Bulbs • Seed Potatoes Over 40 varieties to choose from

• Perennials £1.99 Each or 3 For £5

Garden Centre & Coffee Shop Thaxters Garden Centre, 49 Hunstanton Road, Dersingham, Kings Lynn, Norfolk, PE31 6NA Tel: 01485 541514 | Coffee Shop: 01485 545105

Shop online: www.thaxters.co.uk

$' (.+ ((*+ " + $ + +(""$, #-,,!*$'# # * #! ((*+ $'+, && ,$('+ *!) $*+

.!+,'(*"(&%.$' (.+

KLmagazine March 2014

(& ( -%

87

VICE SUBSCRIPTION SER

NOW AVAILABLE!

Have KL magazine delivered to your door every month!

KL magazine has always been enormously successful, and by popular demand we’ve recently introduced a subscription service – which means you won’t even have to leave your home, as your very own copy posted direct to your door!

For £25, you can receive the next six issues of KL magazine, and £48 you can receive every issue for the next 12 months.

Please note that we can only currently deliver to UK postal addresses.

So, to make sure of your copy of KL magazine, please contact us on 01553 601201 – and thanks again for all your feedback!

To subscribe and for more details, please call 01553 601201 !

# $ """

88

#

$

#

KLmagazine March 2014

My KL

The page made by KL magazine readers

ABOVE: Pictured from left to right are Amanda Arterton, James Morgan (Hayes and Storr), Jonathan Bolton (Vice Chairman, Age UK Norfolk) and Susan Fraser (Trustee, Age UK Norfolk)

DEAR KL MAGAZINE...

Following your feature (in January’s magazine) on our recent production of Gilbert and Sullivan’s The Sorceror, your readers might be interested in what an enormous success it was.

Each of the four performances was sponsored by a local business who donated to a charity to whom they’d been ‘twinned’. The business sponsors and their charities were Hayes and Storr (Age UK Norfolk), Fenton Insurance Solutions Ltd (Tapping House Hospice), The Mortgage Bureau and Artertons (Headway Brain Injuries) and Hayhow & Co (Macmillan Cancer Support).

The total amount raised for the four charities from the businesses and collections at the end of each performance reached a truly impressive £1,849! The photograph (above) shows James Morgan from Hayes and Storr presenting two cheques totalling £600

to Jonathan Bolton of Age UK Norfolk, who had travelled from Norwich for the opening night on Thursday.

“West Norfolk Gilbert and Sullivan Society put on a brilliant and entertaining performance,” he said, “and Age UK Norfolk is delighted to have been one of their chosen charities. The charity is hugely grateful to Hayes and Storr for their generous donation and we’d also like to thank the many theatregoers who contributed to the collection after the show.”

Any business or charity interested in taking part in the Society’s next twinning project should contact me by emailing amanda@artertons.co.uk, and this seems the ideal time to publicly thank the other business sponsors who supported The Sorcerer this year and helped make it such a success.

AMANDA ARTERTON West Norfolk Gilbert & Sullivan Society

PICTURE: © David Tipling Photography

DEAR KL MAGAZINE...

At 7.30pm on Tuesday, 25th March, Brancaster Camera Club will be hosting international wildlife photographer and author David Tipling, whose stunning images have won him many awards over the years – including European Nature Photographer of the Year for his amazing work on Emperor Penguins.

This promises to be a really fascinating evening, and I’m sure all KL magazine readers would enjoy seeing David’s photography and meeting him – everyone’s welcome to join us!

WENDY CALOW 01553 674725 KLmagazine March 2014

DEAR KL MAGAZINE...

On your Now & Then page in February’s magazine, the top photo (above) must have been taken in the early to mid 1960s as opposed to the 1970s, as the Barwell & Sons building was demolished along with the rest of Broad Street to make way for what is now the Vancouver Centre.

The first shops opened in the centre in about 1971, and the shop opposite (which is now occupied

by Holland & Barrett) was Catleughs, the ladies and gents outfitters. The other corners were occupied by the Flower Pot public house and the Chain Library.

The demolition of Broad Street and New Conduit Street involved the loss of many fine buildings and 1971 also saw the relocation of the Cattle Market to Hardwick.

DAVID WOODCOCK Harpley, King’s Lynn DEAR KL MAGAZINE...

I’m sure I won’t be the only person to point out that you’re quite right – the photographs in February’s Then & Now are not of the same building. The 2014 photograph (below) is of the old Catleughs shop, whereas the earlier photograph is of the opposite corner. That property no longer exists, and the building that replaced it is currently occupied by an electronics exchange store.

RON JACKSON South Wootton

89

The Last Word

CrossCurren s

with Canon Chris Ivory, King’s Lynn Minster

T

he opening of the Lynn Mart on the 14th February each year is always a great occasion for the town and for the showmen involved. It is a marvellous opportunity for all the regalia and robes to come out, and all the civic and Church dignitaries in their finery can join in the fun. I suspect that a sense of humour failure (or at least the appearance of such) is one of the great tragedies of Church and society.

Church leaders, politicians, officials and all kinds of important people take themselves far too seriously – so the mixture of the sublime and the absurd in the Mart opening ceremony is wonderful, and for me it’s a great privilege to take part.

As we set out this year, I was worried that the Bishop’s mitre and the High Sheriff’s feathers would get soggy in the rain, but I really wanted to applaud when I saw them together in a dodgem car – the Bishop’s staff looking rather like a second pole to pick up the power from the electric grid. I imagined him stepping out of the car and raising his staff to be powered along like a Dalek in his robes!

After the ride on the dodgems, I count it my duty to exorcise the Ghost Train. I don’t know if that makes the experience more or less scary for the revellers that follow, or whether takings go up or down as a result of my ministrations, but I do hope I deal with any threat of malign influence!

This year’s event was – amazingly enough – the 810th Mart. I suppose 809 years ago it looked a bit different, with less elaborate hydraulic machinery, and no ‘Gallopers’, but the 700-yearold figures of acrobats (‘tumblers’ as they were called) that are to be seen on

90

one of the wooden screens in the Minster, show that the mediaeval Mart was much like the circus coming to town today.

The figures are rather rude and shouldn’t be sought out by anyone of a nervous disposition. A few years ago, I was called by Radio Norfolk following a visitor’s complaint that the figures had been removed.

“The Vicar must have removed them because of the narrow-minded prudery of the Church of England,” said the complainant.

Well, they hadn’t been removed. The visitor was simply looking in the wrong place. But I did find it difficult to describe the more exotic poses in words suitable for daytime broadcast.

There are other comic figures staring out from the 13th century stonework in the Minster and I’m reminded of the comic faces high up on the inside of the Greyfriars tower. They can’t be seen from the ground, but they must have been a great amusement for the monks all those centuries ago – or at least for those who could get close enough to see them!

I can just imagine the frowning faces of the authorities consulted on any new proposal to install such images in a church building. It’s a pity, because a sense of humour is one of God’s greatest gifts. There may be some irreverence involved, but it’s not irreverence to God – it’s just aimed at people who think a bit too highly of

themselves.

There may not be a great many jokes in the Bible, but there is a great deal of irony. I can’t help but imagine that Jesus had a smile on his face when he told some of his stories. For example, the one that says God is a bit like an unjust judge with no respect for God or people – but one who gives an old woman what she wants to stop her nagging.

Maybe it is a reminder of the need to persist in prayer, but I’m sure that it started out as a joke. I don’t think Jesus really thought that God could be manipulated by nagging.

Among the last things that Jesus said to his close friends was, “I have said these things to you so that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be complete.” And later he prays “that they may have my joy made complete in them.”

The joy that Jesus is talking about is much more profound than laughing at a few jokes. But in order to receive it, we do need to be able – sometimes – to laugh at ourselves.

KLmagazine March 2014

$IIRUGDELOLW\ RQ D ǒɚɒ SODWH &KHFN RXW WKHVH JUHDW RIIHUV RQ QHZ 9RONVZDJHQV eɚ ɗȧȧ e ɚ ɗȧȧ

TTOWARDS OWARDS Y OUR R FINANCE FI NAN C E YOUR D EPOSIT †DEPOSIT

eɚ ȧȧȧ e ɚ ȧȧȧ

TTOWARDS OWARDS Y OUR FINANCE FINAN C E YOUR D EPOSIT †DEPOSIT

FREE * INSURANCE INSU

3ROR 6 Éš 3ROR 6 Éš 3 36 6 )URP ÉƒÉšČ§ ȾȾȧ Fr e e t a n k o f f u e l

* *ROI 6 Éš 76, ROI 6 Éš 76, )URP ÉƒÉšČ˛ ȾȾɗ Fr e e t a n k o f f u e l

Ki Kings ngs Ly Lynn nn Volkswagen Volkswagen Ber Bergen gen Wa Way, y, Nor North th Lynn Lynn Industrial Ind Estat Estate, e, Kings Lynn Lynn, Lynn , Norfolk Norfolk,, PPE30 E30 2JG. TTelephone: elephone: 0 01553 1553 77 778800.

8800. www.kingslynn.volkswagen.co.uk www.kingslynn.volkswagen.co.uk

Part Part of Marrio Marriott tt Motor Grou Group p

*One year ’s free insurance is available from Volkswagen Insurance on all PPolo olo models for drivers over 21 (or over 25 for Polo GT and Po olo GTI models). Free insurance offfer er excludes Northern Ireland.

Other eligibility criteria apply. Go to insurewithvolkswagen.co.uk/polo for full terms and conditions. Volkswagen Motor Insurance is sold, underwritten and administered by Allianz Insurance plc. †DDeposit contributions are available to customers who purchase their car with Solutions Pers e ersonal Contract Plan. Further charges may be payable if vehicle is returned. Indemnities may be required. erms and conditions apply. Retail sales only. Volkswagen Finance, Freepost VWFS. Solutions Subject to status. Available to over 18s in the U K only. TTerms Personal Contract Plan offers available on orders before March 31st, 2014. Subject to availability. Offers may be varied or withdrawn at any time. Certain We e can introduce you to a limited number of lenders to vehicles excluded. Ask for details. Finance providers may pay us for introducing you to them. W Test figu figures for comparative purposes and may not reflect real assist with your purchase, who may payus for introducing you to them. Standard E U Test driving results. Official fuel consumption figures for the Volkswagen model range in mpg (litres/100km): urban 23.7 (11.9) – 74.3 (3.8); extra urban 35.8 REPRESENTATIVE (7.9) – 94.2 (3.0); combined 31.0 (9.1) – 88.3 (3.2). Combined CO2 emissions 239 – 85g/ km. Official fuel consumption figures for the e-up! in mpg: n/a.

6.8% APR

FOXMEISTER CLASSIC & SPORTS CARS

Ferrari 599 GTB F1 Presented in the favoured colour combination of Nero Daytona with tan leather interior and black carpets.

Bose sound, heated seats, leather headlining, navigation with Bluetooth, 20� monolithic alloys, rear parking sensors & carbon drving zone. Mileage: 20,431 £89,995

Land Rover Defender 90 Icon Air con, heated seats, electric windows, black quilted leather seats, upgraded alloy wheels, Discreet front bumper with winch, suspension lift package, front diff guard, rubber load mat, soundproofing side carpet panels, relocate tie downs, Xeon lights in bumper. Mileage: 8,795. ÂŁ26,995

Ford Mustang Mac 1 Coupe Silver with Black stripes, Black interior and carpets, 351 5.0 litre v8, 4 speed manual gearbox, power steering, alloy wheels, Featured in Round Up August 2012 issue being best field car at MOCGB Capel Manor. Simply stunning example and documented service history file. ÂŁ32,995

Jaguar XJS 5.3 Auto Year 1989, G Reg, Colour Met Blue, Grey leather interior, Cross Spoke Alloy Wheels, Climate control, All electrics are in fully working order, full documented service history file, very nice example. Mileage: 52,736. ÂŁ5,995

Ford Capri RS2600 (LHD 1970) Coupe Signal orange with ermine white bonnet and body stripes, black interior. Full rebuild to exacting standards with no expense spared. Gold Ford RS alloys, fully re-trimmed interior, rebuilt engine and Kugel mechanical fuel injection system. ÂŁ29,995

Bentley Arnage T Auto Colour Met Silver, black quilted leather interior with Bentley logos, burr walnut/drilled alloy dash and door cappings, sat nav, heated seats, electric front and rear seats, rear tv screen, privacy glass, 19� 5 spoke alloy wheels, sheepskin over rugs, full service history. Mileage: 45,283. £32,995

t: 07721 696969 e: mark@foxmeistercars.com w: www.foxmeistercars.com Lynn Rd, Heacham, Norfolk, PE31 7JF

The Classic CAR DEALER of Norfolk