Living in Suffolk Coastal - Issue 43

GET INVOLVED …

If you’ve got a heartwarming or topical story to tell, an inspiring home or business to show off, or an event you’re planning, we’d love to hear from you! The copy deadline for our June / July edition of LivingIn Suffolk magazine is May 20th . Do get in touch!

l For advertising information or if you’d like to submit any collaboration ideas and stories, email us at, info@livinginsuffolk.com

ON OUR COVER

We love this acrylic on canvas by Samuel Thomas (see page 7).

‘Bursting Into Spring’ captures that “playful element where the landscape suddenly blossoms and springs into colour and vibrancy.” It recently sold; however limited prints are still available.

l Visit, samuelthomasart.co.uk

©Katie Willoughby

NEWS

All your latest news from around Suffolk ...

HAPPY BIRTHDAY KEANE!

Suffolk’s Jesse Quin will be playing at Latitude this summer as part of chart-topping band Keane’s 20th anniversary world tour. They join headliners such as Kasabian, Duran Duran, Orbital and Nile Rodgers and Chic at Henham Park near Southwold, in July.

Bassist Jesse, who joined the band in 2007, tells LivingInSuffolk , “For a band to still be able to sell tickets after 20 years is pretty amazing, especially considering how much excellent music there is coming out all the time.”

He says he can’t wait to play in front of his home county at the festival which annually attracts 40,000 festival goers.

“I’ve been to Latitude almost every year so it’s really exciting to get to play on the main stage,” he says. “I guested (there) on guitar with Mumford & Sons once but that was just one song. Latitude has become painfully commercial compared to the early years but I’ve still seen some of my favourite ever gigs there. Portishead in 2015 was a particularly amazing one.”

The band’s world tour includes multiple dates in Mexico, Europe, the UK and USA –

their Latitude date falls in the middle of the tour which started at the end of March and ends in September. Jesse, who is founder of creative hub Old Jet based at Bentwaters Park near Woodbridge, says there are highs and lows while touring.

“The highs are the gigs and getting to see so many amazing places around the world. I take great delight in almost never visiting any tourist attractions but instead just wandering around interesting neighbourhoods and seeing what places feel like. There are lots of places that we’ve been to enough times that you get to know them but there are also so many places that I’d love to go back to and live in for a few months. The low bits are missing home and all the flying, but generally speaking the highs definitely outweigh the lows. I guess it’s like any job, when you do it enough it feels normal.”

GARDEN TRAIL CELEBRATES 10 YEARS…

St Elizabeth Hospice’s much-loved Great Garden Trail is back for its tenth year.

From Woodbridge to Stowupland through to Felixstowe and Halesworth, gardens across the region are opening for the public to visit

this summer in aid of St Elizabeth Hospice.

The 2024 Great Garden Trail, which runs from April to September, features a variety of gardens supported by whole villages as well as beautiful hidden gems for the public to explore in return for a donation.

Over 25 gardens will feature, from individual gardens to communities opening

l To book tickets for Latitude 2024, go to, latitudefestival.com

For more details on Keane’s tour, go to, keanemusic.com For details on Old Jet, visit oldjet.co.uk

together for the public to explore this summer, including Rydal Mount (near Halesworth), Columbine Hall, Otley Hall and Stowupland.

Columbine Hall hosts an open garden on 21st April, featuring a number of stalls, refreshments and live music. It’s head gardener, Kate Elliott (pictured), will hold an exclusive talk later in the summer about working at Columbine Hall since the age of 16 and how it’s developed over the years.

Kate says: “St Elizabeth Hospice is a cause very close to my heart. It touched me and my family in so many ways with everyone’s compassionate care.”

“We open for the Great Garden Trail on Sunday 21st April. There are five acres of gardens to explore here at Columbine Hall including a large walled garden, formal parterre, bog garden, woodland, wildflower meadow, hundreds of tulips, vistas and eye-catchers.”

l For a full list of locations, dates and tickets, visit stelizabethhospice.org.uk

© Nick Ilott)

Alarge solo exhibition by one of East Anglia’s most optimistic artists comes to Suffolk for five weeks in March. The exhibition showcases  the true diversity of the artist, Samuel Thomas, featuring 36 recent original paintings.

WOODBRIDGE WELCOMES VIBRANT ART EXHIBITION

Artist Samuel Thomas tells us about his latest exhibition The Art of Optimism

Why should we come along to this exhibition?

I’m exhibiting a large collection of contemporary original artworks. Including the collection titled Masters Remastered, which are iconic artworks celebrated in my own unique

14X14

Ahighlight of the arts calendar this spring is this group art exhibition, the second show curated by the duo behind 14X14.

Jessica Bradley and Aaron Farris (pictured) joined forces in 2022 with the seed of an idea to co-curate local arts events. Having met many years earlier, and after both had recently changed their careers to follow a more creative path, the duo put on their first large group exhibition last spring. The idea was borne out of a shared desire to use an under -utilised community space within their local town. They felt strongly that creative events can benefit small towns like Framlingham both culturally and economically.

interpretation. Plus a silent auction painting will support EACH charity. My artwork has been featured on the BBC and is collected nationally and internationally.

In addition, Stephen Watkins, an award-winning city skyline artist and owner of the W gallery will also be showing his architectural paintings featuring the Suffolk and London skyline. Visit, sjwatkins.com

In the meantime you can explore my artwork on the online gallery, and you can enter the draw to win the original painting on my website: samuelthomasart.co.uk. Instagram: samuelthomasart

Where: The W Gallery, 45a Thoroughfare, Woodbridge, Suffolk, IP12 1AH.  thewgallery.co.uk

When: Running every day until 6th May, 9.30am to 4.30pm. Closed Tuesdays. I will be present for the entirety of the event.

l Samuel Thomas

The ART of OPTIMISM  Visit, samuelthomasart.co.uk

“Our intention is to specifically utilise spaces that are not established galleries and we look forward to searching for new venues in Suffolk for future events,” says Aaron.

The first exhibition featured a group of 14 fellow East Anglian artists, and was a huge success, so much that they are doing it all again!

“The second show is almost upon us and has been months in the planning,” says Jess. It is a celebration of the hand skills and process of the modern maker. An eclectic collection

of skilfully made artworks will be on show, the functional alongside the curious, the bold alongside the calm. It includes ceramic and bronze sculpture, printmaking, textiles, resin furniture, collage and glass.

“We endeavour to include artists at varying stages of their career, emerging talents alongside those with a more extensive history of showing their work,” adds Jess. “Also a mixture of local artists as well as some that have not shown here previously”.

l Find them on Insta, @weare14x14

ARTISTS IN 14X14 GROUP ART

EXHIBITION:

Anna Kora Bartyzel, Ross Loveday, Crispin Kelly, Kirsten Hecktermann, Jack Bidewell, Liam Hennessy, Eileen Revett, Jessica Bradley, Alice Andrea Ewing, Stewart Hearn, Lizzie Kimbley, Nancy Main, Tove Thomas, Andrew Pottruff, Jess Walters & Clark Broadwood Smith

WHERE: 14X14 Group Art Exhibition, The Theatre, Church Street, Framlingham IP13 9BH.

WHEN: 3-14 May. Open daily 10-5pm, until midday on 14th May. Opening reception Saturday 4th May 5-8pm.

ON THE MARKET

The latest homes and property news from around Suffolk ...

WITHIN THESE WALLS …

This magnificently restored five bed Grade II listed townhouse in Hadleigh comes with a remarkable and varied history. Described in 1801 as ‘an elegant brick and sash house’ and in 1844 as ‘well suited for the residence of a genteel family,’ East House has enjoyed many incarnations dating back to the 16th century. As well as being a prominent family home, it

COUNTRY CHIC

We love this beautiful farmhouse, Wash Farm, just two miles from Framlingham coming up for sale soon with historic homes specialist

has also housed the Hadleigh grammar school, a community centre and during the second world war, Dr and Mrs Styles hosted London evacuees including Violet Kray and her three young sons; Charles and twins Ronald and Reginald. Listed as a building of note in Bentley & Pevsner’s architectural esteemed guide, The Buildings of England,

the sensitive restoration of East House and reconstruction of the boundary wall were recognised by The Hadleigh Society in 2019 with the presentation of the Noel Turner Award.

Guide Price: £2,250,000

l Viewings by appointment with Jackson-Stops. Call, 01473 218218. Visit, Jackson-stops.co.uk

Inigo House (from the team behind online estate agency, the Modern House). Lovingly renovated and interior designed, the main house offers three/four bedrooms with a further two spacious two-bed holiday lets offering an excellent source of living. Set in two acres of land, the property also features a charming garden cabin overlooking fields, a

potting shed and a workshop and studio.

Guide Price: £1,200,000

l Check it out on Instagram @inigo.house or visit, inigo.com

©Dirk Rees @dirkrees

©Dirk Rees @dirkrees

©Dirk Rees @dirkrees

Foxburrow Farm, Waldringfield Road, Brightwell IP10 0BJ

MOVERS SHAKERS &

Actress and comedian Josie Lawrence appears at INK Festival alongside the highly acclaimed Comedy Store Players …

Josie, tell us about the Comedy Store Players who are appearing at INK?

The producers of Whose Line Is It Anyway, originally saw us performing as the Players and that’s how we got noticed. It was a fab show to be part of and I do still occasionally do live shows with the American cast. But my heart and soul is always with the Comedy Store players - after 39 years together we’re a family!

As cuts to arts funding hits the headlines, how important are festivals like INK? Festivals like INK are so very important especially in the present clime. Art, in all its forms, feeds the soul.

What do you like most about Suffolk?

I’m looking forward to visiting Suffolk but sadly we will have very little time to explore. As soon as we arrive we’ll be sound checking

for the show. I’ll come back and have a look around if you’re nice to me! I hear the audience are great!

Do you suffer from nerves before going on stage?

I don’t get nervous before a Players show, just very excited. The show is completely improvised and unique to all of us on the night.  This is what makes it so exciting.

How long have you been improvising for, any memorable moments?

I’ve been improvising from as soon as I could talk. But professionally for me it began in 1985. One memory that sticks out is singing a song in the style of a 1920’s flapper about a strobe-lit gold fish! Audience suggestions can often be very imaginative - which we love.

“I’ll come back to Suffolk and have a look around if you’re nice to me!”

Improvisation or serious acting - which one if you had to choose?

I consider myself to be an actress and I’ve had a marvellous career playing many classic roles. I don’t see any difference really - when you perform, be it playing Mother Courage or improv at the Store, I try to give my all. I love performing!

Tell us a secret?

Oh no! A secret told is no longer a secret! Although if you come to see us I may whisper something in your ear after the show!

l The Comedy Players appear at INK Festival at The Cut in Halesworth on April 11. For more information visit, inkfestival.org

Neil Mullarkey, Richard Vranch, Josie and Lee Simpson. Picture by Steve Best

Improv queen Josie

MY FLOCK AND I

…

Victoria Theodorou swapped a career in marketing for one of a shepherdess and has never looked back …

“

As I sit writing this sat on the warm clean straw of my sheep shed having just watched one of my beautiful black Welsh mountain ewes deliver a perfect set of twins, I’m reminded of just how lucky I am. Hidden away in East Suffolk, not far from the coastal towns of Southwold and Walbserswick, this is certainly not the lifestyle my 20-year-old self would have chosen!

I had a successful career in marketing for a long time working in the luxury yachting industry, radio advertising, travel, military and police insurance. It was great but now much older, I have found the life for me.

When I got married, my father-in-law already had sheep and I became more and more interested every lambing season. I progressed quickly from a complete novice (where my only skill was making cooing noises at the new lambs) to a shepherd who has an addiction to sheep!

I moved the flock from purely meat lambs to entering the pedigree world but quickly realised it wasn’t for me. Competitive and cutthroat, I felt uncomfortable trying to aim for perfection, meaning I’d have to cull the imperfect sheep. This wasn’t easy for me as I have an amazing talent for choosing and

falling in love with animals which everyone else would reject. Needless to say, I didn’t do well in that world, so I changed breeds to a rare breed Torwen (Badger Face Welsh Mountain), Black Welsh Mountains and Herdwicks. They are hardy hill breeds which are not, shall we say, as delicate, needy or expensive as pedigree lowlands.

They have incredibly beautiful fleeces from which I can make felted back rugs. In the past, I have made lamb jackets using the power of wool to insulate weak lambs, wine bottle coolers which use the hygroscopic properties of wool to keep a bottle cool and a garden kneeler pad. All made using organic waxed cotton and the wool from my flock. Sadly though, handmade items take time to make and when competing with cheap mass-produced plastic alternatives, many people aren’t prepared to pay the money for them. The only product that I have kept going are my ‘Nesties,’ a willow weaved ball stuffed full of wool that is hung in the garden for the birds to take and use in their nests. The wool will keep the eggs (and also the chicks once they hatch) at the right temperature. It’s biodegradable, sustainable and all natural, just as it should be. Any wool I can’t make into something goes into the garden to rot down and nourish the soil. It also makes a great weed suppressant and keeps the slugs and snails away!

My flock also includes courtenix quail. When I went to pick them up there was one light coloured Italian one which was vastly different in colour and size to the others, the gentleman said; “Oh that one shouldn’t be in

there, I’ll take it out.”

I just laughed and said, “No, no, that’s OK, if it shouldn’t be in there, then it’s coming home with me!”

I have a friendly goose Lucy, who was dumped on my land, and I proceeded to get her a mate, Edmund. And not forgetting my chickens, some of which are the chicks of a very angry cockerel when he was also dumped on our grounds.

The summer months are easier days as the lambs are born and thriving, the grass is

“I have an amazing talent of choosing and falling in love with animals which everyone else would reject”

growing and the birds are laying. Autumn is tupping time, when the rams go in with the ewes. Winter days are miserable as it’s lots of feeding and dragging hay through boggy mud and moving sheep around to ensure they are not poaching up the fields. Spring, of course, is lambing, my favourite time, but the most exhausting and sometimes heart-breaking.

Hatching eggs happens now too - either under a broody hen - or in an incubator

while also planting out the vegetables. Oh, and I almost forgot, dropping and picking up my children, after school clubs, cooking, cleaning, washing etc.

I am raising three children who all understand the circle of life, know where their food comes from and how it’s produced and how to work with nature and not try to

dominate it. My three may only be a tiny fraction of the population, but who knows? What I teach them today they may use to invent and inspire tomorrow…”

l You will find Victoria on Insta @myflockandI or her products at, myflockandicreations.etsy.com

INTERIOR LIVES

CAMELLIA HONEY

Norwich Sunblinds have a stunning range of roller blinds, like this one called Camellia Honey which frames your window with a pretty burst of summer. From patterns to plain, brights to neutrals, their roller blinds are available in a huge range of fabrics and finishes to suit almost any room.

l Check them out at, norwichsunblinds.co.uk

WET WET WET!

How gorgeous is this new wet room style bathroom with storage cupboard cleverly concealed within the teak wall cladding? Combined with the ceramic tiles on the walls and ceiling, the overall finish is modern and sleek. This stunning renovation in a Hollesley property was completed by Suffolk Building and Construction Services based at Base Business Park in Rendlesham.

l Visit, sbcservices.co.uk Or call, 01394 822944

DRESSED FOR SPRING

We keep swooning at this dresser on display at newly decorated The Merchant’s Table in Woodbridge’s Church Street. You can catch artist, illustrator and writer Annabel Pearl painting live in the beautiful Georgian front window of this homeware shop every Saturday (until 4th May) from 11am.

l The Merchants Table, 10 Church Street, Woodbridge, IP12 1DH. Visit, themerchantstable.co.uk

© Anya Rice

OOH LA LA!

The new spring/summer season at Caroline Gladwell Womenswear offers a fabulously French twist … by Caroline Gladwell

I’ve always been interested in what motivates an individual to invent or design, or just put, an idea into practice. In the case of the French brand, Pret Pour Partir (which I am now offering for the second season) - it was conceived following the distressing observation of businessmen in an airport all wearing parkas that were too short over their suits! For the observer, Xavier Aujard, the fashion faux pas was just too much and he set about designing an overcoat with graphic lines which was very long, wellenveloping, weather resistant and with five very practical pockets! In the early 2000’s the new generation parka was born!

understated quality. Founded in 1989 in Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie in Vendee, a famous fishing port and seaside destination on the French Atlantic coast, Mat de Misaine remains true to the values of the region by creating clothing collections inspired by real people living the Atlantic coast way of life.

French elegance is implicit, but also a smart casualness that allows the clothes to be worn daily. There are no gimmicks, they employ the use of natural materials in all their products - namely organic and recycled materials for the ‘La Ligne Bleue’ ecodesigned collection and wool, cotton and linen for their main line. These natural fabrics are chosen for durability and all their inherent

Initially androgynous, in more recent years the brand has evolved towards the feminine. With no loss of function or the nomadic spirit of its clothing, the brand offers timeless coats with a sophisticated twist and an urban flavour which are very much suited to our modern lifestyle. I was drawn to these coats by the quality of the fabrics the moment I came across them at a fair. Combined with good colours too and distinctive ‘signature’ details in manufacture both on the inner and outside of each coat - this really adds to the appeal of the product for me.

One of my other French brands is Mat de Misaine, which has a rather charming and

qualities but also because they are renewable resources when grown with respect to nature. Whilst designed in France, the garments are manufactured in Europe and around the Mediterranean basin at carefully selected factories where close relationships have been forged and built on mutual trust.

This season I am rather enchanted by a Liberty print which features line drawings of pineapples, passion flowers, palm trees and flamingos! There is a shirt and a shirt-waister dress available in this print.

As everyone knows who already shops with me - everything I buy is done so instinctively - nothing in my shop is there just to fill a space! There is a reason for everything. Someone asked me today why I had chosen to stock a particular white t-shirt. On the face

of it you might think perhaps it didn’t warrant my attention, but if you looked again at the beautiful white t-shirting, with body and a sheen, the voluminous cut - not too long and not too short, the side splits, a neat neckline and wide artistic sleeves. When you combine all these features it becomes apparent to me how special the garment is and why it is of value to me and my customers. I bought it in black too!”

l Caroline Gladwell Womenswear, 3 Elmhurst Walk, Woodbridge. Call 01394 383030.

“French elegance is implicit, but also a smart casualness that allows the clothes to be worn daily”

PSST! ... SHINE ON!

Silver Sun Jewellery will soon celebrate its one-year anniversary at its premises on Woodbridge’s Thoroughfare. To mark it, owner Matt Aldridge says they’re offering a 10% discount off their sparkling Whitby jet range to customers who mention this article!

l Pop into 57 The Thoroughfare, Woodbridge. Call, 01394 382114.

GET ON YOUR BIKE!

Owner of Virtue Electric Bikes in Woodbridge, Tom Ward, says there are many benefits to ditching the car in favour of an e-bike.

Not only are they far cheaper than cars, they reduce your carbon footprint as well as improve fitness and wellbeing.

“It gives you a happiness boost,” says Tom. “You see far more on an e-bike and it gives you a far greater sense of freedom as well as a

BITESIZE BULLETIN

Nuggets of business, charity and event news from around Suffolk

chance to explore places inaccessible to cars. Customers come in to see us a few months later and they’ve lost weight and got fit into the bargain,” he says.

The electric or e-bike as they’re known, have small motors on them which engage on peddling and give you a gentle boost so you can zip up hills and cruise over tough terrain. Prices start at £1400, and they cost around £25 a year to charge at home.

“People don’t realise that even though the e-bike is doing some of the work for you, your legs are still turning and you are getting good exercise out of it,” he adds.

l Check them out at: Virtue Bikes, 6a Thoroughfare, Woodbridge. Or call: 01394 834485. To buy a bike, visit: www. virtueelectricbike.com For rentals, go to: www.virtuerentals.co.uk

HAUNTING SUFFOLK LANDSCAPES

Matthew Bowman delves into the connection between two significant anniversaries; the 150th anniversary of Ipswich Art Society and the 120th anniversary of M.R. James’ “Ghost Stories of an Antiquary.”

James’ atmospheric ghost stories typically revolve around the haunting of places, particularly in Suffolk. This reflects the changing understanding of the landscape during a time of industrialisation and urbanisation spanning 150 years..

This fascinating talk is part of the Art at the Heart of Ipswich initiative, celebrating 150 Years of Ipswich Art Society and is made possible by The National Lottery Heritage Fund.

l The talk takes place 7-9pm on 23 May at The Hold, Ipswich Waterfront. Visit, suffolkarchives.co.uk

MORE THAN JUST A TEA ROOM …

Maeve’s Tea Room opened last August and has really taken Woodbridge by storm.

This friendly family-run tea room, situated on the Thoroughfare, is open seven days a week and is carving quite a name for itself in the culinary world. With its pretty courtyard garden, perfect for

al fresco dining this spring and summer, and four spacious dining areas inside, Maeve’s serves the best coffee in town, using La Marzocco and the finest beans from Crude Coffee Roasters in Bury St Edmunds.

It offers home-made cakes, daily specials, pastries, afternoon tea, breakfast, brunch and lunch menus, using locally-sourced ingredients where possible as well as vegan and gluten free options. It may look full from the front but do not fear as there is always bags of room inside!

It also hosts monthly children’s book clubs in association with Woodbridge Books as well as popular Supper Nights. It is clearly so much more than just a tea room. Check the

WHAT A JOURNEY!

Art For Cure, the hugely successful breast cancer charity based in Suffolk, known for its stylish art exhibitions to raise vital funds for research and support services, is celebrating 10 years of the charity. And it kicks off with the vibrant exhibition, Journey, featuring paintings, photography, sculpture and ceramics inspired by travel from 30 eminent national artists at Ballroom Arts, Aldeburgh on May 4-7th - entry by donation.

The charity’s founder, Belinda Gray, experienced breast cancer in her 40’s and is a passionate traveller so there is no surprise to find Natasha Kumar and Penelope

website and socials for full details of what’s coming up, such as Thai Night on 26th April or Indian Street Food Supper Night on 26th July. Private hire is also available. Call the team on, 01394 547210.

l Visit, maevestearoom.co.uk or find them online @maevestearoom Maeve’s Tea Room, 74 Beresford House, Thoroughfare, Woodbridge.

Madden’s stunning art of Indian travels as well as Julia Cassels’ safari scenes, Sarah Muir Poland’s Mediterranean landscapes, Richard Knights’ New York Street scenes alongside new sculptors, New Zealand-born Kate Charles and ceramicist Jill Sutcliffe.

Continuing its travel theme, the charity has launched its fabulous Cycle Cuba challenge departing January 2025. So if you want to get

fitter this summer, raise some sponsorship and enjoy the trip of a lifetime, sign up on the website now!

Later in September, the hard working team returns for the last time to Glemham Hall, which is now up for sale, to stage the charity’s 10 year celebratory exhibition from September 13-15 – they advise to get on the mailing list for early ticket release!

l Visit, artforcure.org.uk

OF GOOD HEALTH! 25years

In our 25th year The Natural Health Centre continues to offer an ever widening range of therapies provided by highly qualified, experienced therapists.

Situated in the heart of Woodbridge, the centre is an oasis of calm and tranquility which aims to cater for all health needs.

Owner Lesley Terry, says, “When we first opened our doors there were just five of us therapists. We are now sixteen and counting! As complementary medicine becomes more mainstream, government initiatives supporting improved lifestyle choices encourage the combination of the orthodox and the complementary to achieve improved physical and mental health. We are proud to play a part in the journey towards a healthier and happier future.”

THERAPIES AVAILABLE:

l Acupuncture and herbal medicine

l Allergy therapy

l Bowen Technique

l Foot health care practitioner

l Chiropractic (McTimoney, cranial sacral, torque release technique)

l Clinical psychology and CBT

l Counselling, psychotherapy and hypnotherapy

l Indian Head Massage

l Kansa Vatki

l Life coach

l Chronic fatigue syndrome treatment

l Energy therapies

l Massage therapy and holistic bodywork

l Osteopathy

l Naturopathy

l Physiotherapy

l Reflexology

l Women’s health and wellbeing

l Yoga one-to-one

Times of therapist appointments are negotiable and not subject to reception opening times.

l The Natural Health Centre, 24A The Thoroughfare, Woodbridge, IP12 1AQ. Call, 01394 380580.

Email, info@nhcwoodbridge.co.uk. Visit, nhcwoodbridge.co.uk

Staff at the Centre are highly-trained

A SAFE HAVEN

The ever-welcoming Suffolk Oxygen Therapy Centre has become a sanctuary for those looking to give their health a boost …

Suffolk Oxygen Therapy Centre has recently unveiled a wonderful new look website which gives visitors a sneak preview of this nurturing charity.

Based near Claydon, it provides subsidised oxygen therapy sessions which can help those with sports injuries and conditions such as multiple sclerosis, long covid and cancer, across East Anglia. It’s admirable that this heart-warming centre is funded entirely from donations, grants and a programme of year-round fund-raising activities.

Manager Mark Suddes (pictured top right, third from left), says: “We pride ourselves on being more than just a therapy centre, we’re a community - our staff, our volunteers, our fundraisers, our members. We describe ourselves as a big hug, the centre is a warm and welcoming safe haven for all members. Our staff and volunteers understand everyone is on a different journey and we are on that journey together.”

Oxygen therapy is being used by ever more people throughout the world. Staff at the centre will tell you it’s not a cure; it supports the body’s natural healing process and is complementary to prescribed

allopathic treatment might have failed.

The known benefits of this non-invasive therapy include reducing swelling in the body, fighting bacteria, encouraging the growth of new blood cells and assisting in repairing tissue damage. Breathing high levels of oxygen in a barometric chamber dissolves more oxygen in the body’s fluids and it can reach areas where the circulation is diminished or blocked, and so improves recovery.

Sitting in one of the chambers for a one-hour session, you might come across an Ipswich Town footballer, world-ranking martial arts fighter looking to heal their sports injuries, as you are someone aiding their chemotherapy treatment or even looking for a skin boost or perhaps aiding their battle against dementia.

Centre staff: Sam, Kerri, Mark and Fiona

treatment plans. And it’s not just a boost for medical conditions, it can benefit sports rehabilitation and general wellbeing.

Many clients will tell you that breathing in pure oxygen has had an incredible effect on their condition - often picking up where

The Centre is staffed by fully-trained operators supported by experienced volunteers - everyone has a welcoming smile for you.

Chair of Trustees of Suffolk Oxygen Therapy, Louise Moxon (pictured, left), was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS) at the age of 24 and is convinced of the healing powers of oxygen therapy.

“We pride ourselves on being more than just a therapy centre, we’re a community”

“I have more energy and my condition hasn’t got any worse,” she says. “In fact, my MS nurse, who only sees me once a year, usually says; ‘whatever you’re doing, keep doing it!’ ”

This is a familiar story you will hear time and time again at the centre. Clients come from all walks of life, but the one thing they share is an enormous appreciation that Suffolk offers such a unique centre as it’s only one of just a handful dotted around the UK.

l Visit their new-look website at, suffolkoxygentherapy.co.uk. To book oxygen sessions at the Suffolk Oxygen Therapy Centre, Unit 27 Claydon Business Park, Gipping Road, Great Blakenham, IP6 0NL, call, 01473 830359.

Chair of Trustees, Louise Moxon

SHE GROWS VEG …

This year the Chelsea Flower Show will offer an exhibit in the Great Pavilion which showcases the meteoric rise of Suffolk’s very own home grown veg star, Lucy Hutchings.

She is no stranger to success - her and chef husband Mike Keen, appeared on C5’s Build Your Dream Home In The Country when they transformed their tumbledown wooden

1940s Suffolk home and1.5-acre site into the stunning Cedarwood Homestead. And her 187,000 followers of She Grows Veg on Instagram love the films set in her dreamy Suffolk garden featuring her homegrown heirloom veg and culinary seed.

Last December Lucy teamed up with marketeer and music festival organiser, Kate Cotterill, to launch their ranges of pollinated seeds from heirloom or rare origins which are packed full of nutrients, gorgeous looking and taste phenomenal.

“We firmly believe that the only way to give yourself the most incredible range of ingredients, at a price that won’t break the bank, is to grow it yourself, and this is the philosophy we plan to present at Chelsea,” says Lucy. “We want people to come along, see the colour, taste the difference and go out there and grow their own.”

Both Lucy and Kate will be available at their show garden (May 21-25) to answer

questions, offer advice and visitors will be able to purchase seeds.

Raymond Blanc joins them on opening day to cook heirloom produce and prove it

tastes so much better than supermarketbought produce.

“Growing some of your food can be really empowering and yes it can help to lower those grocery bills,” says Lucy.

“Our mission is to bring the very best heirloom veg to the public so that they can cook with the ingredients that chefs’ covet, this collaboration will do just that.”

l Chelsea Flower Show runs from 21-25th May. Visit, shegrowsveg.com ADVERTISEMENT

A HIDDEN GEM!

1975is a wine and graze bar located in the heart of Woodbridge in Gobbitts Yard. It’s been described as a hidden gem and we pride ourselves on great customer service, high quality produce that is either supplied locally or made in house, fine wines and delicious cocktails in a beautifully decorated setting. We also offer our 1975 afternoon teas and in a few weeks a new brunch menu will be available.

There is a pretty courtyard where you can relax and enjoy cheese and wine or coffee and cake. We offer lots of events such as a Single Social, open mics, jazz music and even karaoke once a month. Our venue is also available for private hire and is the perfect space for your special occasion or celebration.

l Please visit www.1975winebar.com for further details and a full list of our events

Home grown talent Lucy

Kate and Lucy launched the Heirloom Seed Company

Pictures by Chris Clayton Photography

SPRING AT SNAPE!

House & Garden is in full bloom at Snape Maltings …

Only twenty minutes from Woodbridge in the car and you arrive at Snape Maltings. As many of you know, not only is it surrounded by stunning nature and the iconic reed beds; perfect for morning dog walks, but it is also home to an array of independent shops. From The Craft Shop, The Shed, Earsham St. Deli to Snape

Antiques.

If you venture into the largest of the shops, House & Garden, you will be greeted by an impressive Food Hall that celebrates the finest produce from the county, and delicacies sourced from around the world beyond. From Italian pastas and sauces to locally crafted wines and spirits, to a variety of artisan teas and the perfect biscuits to complement.

If you are looking for home interiors, you will be spoilt for choice with beautiful stripes and gingham checks in fresh new colour palettes adorning the furniture. Taking inspiration from English cottage gardens, the new textiles in leafy greens are complemented by blushing pink tones, reminiscent of blooms waiting to flower.

New garden furniture ranges have also arrived in the Courtyard Garden, ready for eating outside and soaking up the spring sunshine. Discover ranges of outdoor fireplaces and firepits that are perfect for alfresco dining, and seasonal plants to add a splash of colour to your own patio from local

grower Katie’s Garden. Take a walk up into Samphire Boutique to immerse yourself in the new womenswear collections for the season. Think of the vibrant colours and rich embroidery, combined with cool linens and relaxed knitwear. A perfect place to indulge in a little treat for yourself.

If you are looking for a gift for a loved one, head to the Bed and Bath area for luxurious hand creams and scented bath oils, or to the Children’s area to pick up a bedtime read or a cuddly creature. Finished off with a special greeting card and block printed wrapping paper.

After all that shopping, a slice of delicious carrot cake and cup of tea overlooking the reed beds in the River View Café & Bar is a welcomed reward. l

A WALK ON THE

Leopards chasing pet dogs, pumas lurking in quarries, large emu-like birds holding up trains - the story of Suffolk’s exotic animals …

Dunwich author Matt Salusbury says his latest book, Mystery Animals of Suffolk, features accounts of many big cat sightings around the county. According to him, big cats have been regularly spotted in the county since the early 1970s. They are generally thought to be the descendants of escaped or released exotic animals such as black leopards, pumas and lynxes which had once been kept as pets. Some, he claims, could even be feral domestic cats which have grown to a great size over the generations.

“When I first started working on it, I thought there’d be maybe one or two

“One man leaving work in Dunwich when he saw a black leopard crouching in a ditch”

“One couple near Ickworth saw a leopard chase their pet spaniel into their garden”

also delves into ‘escaped exotics’ like the escaped rheas (large flightless birds) that were holding up trains on the tracks at Wickham Market, an escaped prairie dog from Norfolk, the wild boar shot at Ixworth, there’s even reference to an infestation of hamsters in the 1960s in Bury St Edmunds. Yes, you did read that correctly!

Matt admits he’s never encountered anything of real note himself, apart from a fleeting glimpse of something resembling a “big fox” whilst walking in a forest, or another time he spotted “something like black shuck” (Suffolk’s legendary phantasmal black dog) whilst on a train at Darsham.

But his work has brought him into contact with many people who have told him of very real, often scary, experiences of big cats.

reports of big cats but here we are more than 200 cases later,” says Matt, who is also a freelance journalist for the Fortean Times. “Although compared to other parts of England and Scotland, like Fife and Devon, where you go outdoors and are positively tripping over big cats, sightings here in Suffolk are relatively low!”

Using witness interviews, maps and photos, Matt’s book examines cases like the black leopard from Wortham, the Haverhill puma, an escaped West Suffolk bobcat, a “tan puma” near Lakenheath and many more. He

“A neighbour saw one crossing the road from Dunwich down to Westleton,” he says. “Another person, who works in Dunwich was leaving work when he saw a black leopard crouching in a ditch. There was a sighting of a puma in a quarry at Westleton. And one couple, who live near Ickworth, saw a leopard chase their spaniel into their garden.”

From tales of Stowmarket’s baby snatching fairies, animal ghosts, a medieval crocodile and a winged serpent seen flapping around Mendham in 1662, this book is a real walk on the wild side!

l Matt will be giving a talk on The Woodwoses and Wildmen of Suffolk for Orford Museum on Wednesday 24th April at Butley Priory at 6.15pm. Book tickets in advance - £18 for non-members of Orford Museum via the Museum’s online booking system. Signed copies of Mystery Animals of Suffolk will be on sale at a discount. Visit, orfordmuseum.org.uk.

l Mystery Animals Of Suffolk is available from local books shops and on Amazon for £15. To report a sighting, visit, bigcatsofsuffolk.com

©Jane Inglesfield Matt and his book

©Lee Acaster Lee Acaster caught this black leopard on film at Wortham – you can watch it on Matt’s website

©Bucography Leopards have been spotted throughout Suffolk for many years

DOG ABOUT

My name is Goose and I’m a 14 week old labradoodle. My dad got me from Diss and I went to live with him and my mum near Woodbridge. They called me Goose as I’m a bit ‘bitey.’ I’m told I can be quite naughty and am never happier than when I’m up to a bit of mischief. My favourite thing in the world is playing fetch - I think I have quite a talent for it. Everyone keeps telling me how clever I am as I sleep all the way through the night. I mean, why wouldn’t you? Two things I don’t like are having my paws wiped and being told off. I may become a bit of a diva in time; it depends on how much my parents spoil me.

l Have you got a dog who would like his or her 15 minutes of fame? Email your best photos to: info@livinginsuffolk.com

GIVE YOUR TEEN SOMETHING TO SMILE ABOUT THIS SPRING!

If your teenager hasn’t qualified for NHS braces, mydentist in Woodbridge might just have the answer to put that gorgeous smile back on their face!

Dr Sarah Weston at mydentist is able to assess older teens for teeth straightening with aligners (subject to suitability) with treatments for both teens and adults starting at just £1900 depending on the length of treatment required. Consultations are free for teenagers which will put a smile on your face too!

In other news, associate dentist, Dr

Mihaela Martiniuc, has moved full-time to the Melton branch and is offering the very latest treatment in dental implants. Mihaela is highly

Mill Business Centre are airy and plush and boast some serious state-of-the-art equipment including a new wireless trios scanner which does everything from keeping a regular eye on your general health to taking digital impressions. And with their new wall-mounted TV’s in surgery, clients can see it all clearly on a big screen!

experienced in preventative, restorative and cosmetic dentistry and facial rejuvenation as well as whitening, anti-aging treatments and flexible dentures.

Their newly refurbished offices at Deben

l For teeth straightening/aligners, contact Sarah on, 07715 061964 or via her Insta, @dr.sarahweston For other enquiries call 01394 382694. Or visit, mydentist.co.uk

CAPTURING SUFFOLK’S MAKERS …

Jemma Watts is on a personal quest to document the county’s creators …

From the moment Jemma Watts was given her first SLR camera as a teenager, she has documented the world around her ever since.

As a professional photographer for the last 20 years, Jemma has made a name for herself in the food and interiors market.

Her images have travelled all around the world and have graced the pages of many food and interiors magazines including Conde Nast Traveller, Jamie Oliver, House

Beautiful, 91 Magazine, Country Living and Olive Magazine.

Some of her brand clients include Bailey’s, 3M, Hillary’s Blinds, Pinney’s of Orford, Beards & Daisies and Disney.

Jemma, who has also photographed seven cookbooks for a variety of publishers including Penguin Books, Kyle Books and Hodder & Stoughton has worked with some well known cooks from the food, fashion and sports world including Gok Wan, Tilly Ramsay and Derval O’Rouke.

She now shares her wealth of experience by offering photography workshops and online masterclasses for business owners and keen amateurs.

Just lately, she has embarked on a personal project which has really captured her creative eye - documenting Suffolk’s makers and creators - as seen in this stunning set of images.

“The joy is being able to bring together the narrative,” says Jemma, “to tell the story through a collection of beautiful images. I love working with artists and makers and telling the story behind their business. With Pinneys for example, I really enjoyed capturing the whole process, like with their

smokehouse. The owner Bill (Pinney) was a joy to talk to - I loved hearing all about his family history. I’ve always been interested in people. With artist Rob (Wyn Yates), we didn’t stop talking for the whole two-hour shoot!

And David, the heraldic artist, also loves foraging so he took me out and taught me about mushrooms and I learnt about his skills. I just love learning and capturing how people work.”

l If you have an interesting story behind your business visit, jemmawatts.com or find her on Insta @jemma_watts_photography

Bill Pinney fishing for oysters

Suffolk artist Rob Wyn Yates

Heraldic artist, David Truzzi-Franconi

People watching: Jemma Watts

DREAMY COASTAL AND RURAL HOLIDAY RETREATS …

There’s so much to do in Suffolk, it’s difficult to know what to choose, let alone where to stay. That’s where Suffolk Hideaways come in!

We know that the perfect holiday cottage is more than just a place to rest your head. It’s all about having a welcoming, cosy haven to return to after a busy day exploring. Somewhere to relax, recover and spend quality time together, and with our portfolio

family holiday, our expert local team is always on hand to help find your perfect getaway. We know the local areas and our properties inside out, so are on hand to assist you throughout your stay.

We welcome many of our guests back year-after-year, and our Feefo Platinum Trusted Service Award is testament to this, something we are extremely proud of.

of over 160 self-catering properties, which is constantly growing, we really do have something for everyone.

With cosy cottages and luxury retreats close to beautiful beaches, in rural hotspots or in the middle of quaint market towns, Suffolk Hideaways has the property for you. Whether you’re after a short break, a romantic getaway or a

For those travelling with a dog, many of our properties are dog friendly with fully enclosed gardens, so your four-legged friend can enjoy the abundance of walks and beaches this gorgeous county has to offer too.

l For further information or to book your perfect holiday visit, suffolkhideaways.co.uk

To speak to a local member of our team who have first-hand knowledge of any property you choose call, 01728 666 300.

MADCHESTER COMES TO SUFFOLK!

Inspiral Carpets, The Apex, Bury St Edmunds, Thursday 23 May, 8pm

Eighties rockers may well remember a vital component of the infamous Madchester movement, Inspiral Carpets. This rock band, formed in Oldham in 1980, was known for hits such as This is How It Feels, Dragging Me Down, Two Worlds Collide, Saturn 5 and many more. They remain much-loved, not only in Manchester but across the UK and now they’re coming to Suffolk! Tickets, £32 seated and £29.50 standing. Prices include a £2 booking fee.

l Visit, theapex.co.uk

AND ABOUT! OUT

Top things to do around Suffolk this spring …

SUFFOLK’S INDIAN ROYALS

Talk - Maharajah Duleep

Singh: Suffolk’s Indian Royals, The Hold, Ipswich Waterfront, Thursday 13 June, 7pm – 9pm

An enthralling talk by eminent author Peter Bance, on the life of East Anglia’s most famous royals who lived at Elveden, Old Buckenham and Blo’ Norton.

Maharajah Duleep Singh was just 11 years old when his kingdom of Punjab was annexed by the East India Company and surrendered the famous Kohinoor diamond. He was exiled to England, became a favourite of Queen Victoria and mingled with the Prince of Wales. He chose East Anglia as his home and this is where his family resided for almost a century.

Peter Bance has many anecdotes of the Duleep Singhs with unseen Victorian photography offering a fascinating insight into this family of historians, archaeologists, activists, philanthropists and suffragettes. Suitable for ages 16+. After the talk there will be time to visit the Arrivals exhibition. Part of the Arrivals project.

l Visit, suffolkarchives.co.uk

ALL THAT JAZZ!

An Evening with Claire Martin, Jubilee Hall, Aldeburgh, Saturday 25th May, 7.30pm

Multi award-winning jazz vocalist and BBC Radio presenter, Claire Martin OBE, presents a celebration of some of the greatest jazz vocalists of the 20th Century.

Arranged and curated by Claire, this concert celebrates the music of quintessential jazz vocalists from the likes of Ella Fitzgerald, Peggy Lee, Shirley Horn, Carmen McRae and more, as well as sneak previews from her forthcoming

album Almost in Your Arms.

Claire, who was awarded an OBE for her services to jazz in 2011, has been a professional singer since the age of 19 and has released 18 CDs on the prestigious Linn label, collaborating with musical luminaries such as Martin Taylor, John Martyn, Stephane Grappelli and Jim Mullen.

She co-presented BBC Radio 3’s Jazz Line Up and has interviewed many of her own musical heroes such as Pat Metheny and the late Michael Brecker.  Doors and bar open at 7pm.

l Tickets, aldeburghjubileehall. co.uk or call 01728 454022.

PLANETS VS PLASTICS

Woodbridge Earth Day Celebration, Whisstocks Place, Woodbridge, Saturday 20th April 2024, 10-4pm

Hosted by Transition Woodbridge, Woodbridge Riverside Trust and Woodbridge Ambient Music Festival, the theme of this fun-filled musical day is Planets Vs Plastics. With its local growers Market at the popular Whisstocks Place overlooking the Tide Mill on the River Deben, Earth Day celebrates the food and drink producers within 21 miles of the town as well as live music, story telling, children’s activities, river films and ambient music in the Longshed Gallery.

There will be environmental stands from Suffolk Wildlife Trust, RSPB, Save the Deben, Woodbridge Climate Action Centre as well as Cupboard Love’s mobile refill shop.

Live music includes local favorites Aartwork, Ash Carr, Elly Tree, Petra Garrard and Martin Wilks with Storytelling from Bards Aloud on the Middle Earth Stage and music and films in the Longshed Gallery from Woodbridge Ambient Music Festival. l Visit, transitionwoodbridge.org.uk