Living in Suffolk Coastal - Issue 26

ISSUE SUMMER ISSUE ONE… 26 . MA RCH / A 2016 PR IL 2021

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'())*!+ Ma m mhome a m owners… i a … workthrow ing open with their mumdoors Local C Child h i n free u p … reasons to the b e couple cheerful zones?… meet with the Parent Pod! Is grey year?…

Jojo Lu c y Tijust f f n so e y last … why I lov e Humes S uffolk Brown on colours

YOUR BRAND NEW FREE HOMES & LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

MORE THAN BRICKS AND MORTAR We could start by telling you weí re really good at building. But hopefully, the fact weí ve been around in one form or another since 1971 gives you some confi dence in our ability.

50 years experience has taught us that the vital ingredient to a successful project is the quality of working relationships.

Choose the wrong builder and your project will be painful. It woní t be if you choose us.

WHAT WEí RE REALLY GOOD AT, IS HELPING YOU ON THE JOURNEY...

Got a project? Scan the QR code to fi nd out more, or visit sandlings.uk

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ISSUE 2 6 . . . MA RC H / A P RIL 2021

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ON THE COVER Bloom by Maria Fletcher, one half of the @ motherdaughtercreate team (see their story on page eight). This acrylic painting, 51cm x 6 6 cm, is for sale in the botanically-themed Art for Cure exhibition, also called Bloom.

G o to www.artforcure.org.uk or find Maria and daughter L ia’s work at www.motherdaughtercreate.com HA VE Y OU GOT A N A M A Z IN G PHOTOGRA PH WE M IGHT LIKE? Send a hi-res version to us at info@ livinginsuffolk.com

'())*!+ Ma m m a m i a … work ing with mum C h i n u p … reasons to b e cheerful Lu c y Ti f f n e y … why I lov e S uffolk

GET IN VOLVED? If you’ve got a heartwarming story to tell, an inspiring home to show off or a fabulous event you’re planning, we’d love to hear from you!

Our copy deadline for our May/June issue is Monday, 12th April and it will be available from Thursday, 29th April. l For advertising info and to tell us your stories, email info@livinginsuffolk.com

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!"#"$%&"$ Editor: Angela Hagan 07930 184773, info@ livinginsuffolk.com Designers: Craig Drever and L ewis Webb Writer: Abygail Fossett abygail@ livinginsuffolk.com www.livinginsuffolk.com Due E ast Media L td: Soane House, 4 Soane Street, Ipswich IP4 2BG . Registered in E ngland number 10242873

Disclaimer: Whilst every care has been taken to ensure that the data in this publication is accurate, neither the publisher nor the editor, nor its editorial contributors can accept, and hereby disclaim, any liability to any party for omissions resulting from negligence, accident or any other cause. All artwork is accepted on the strict condition that permission has been given for use in this publication. L iving In … Suffolk Coastal does not officially endorse any advertising material included within this publication. All rights reserved. No parts of this publication may be reproduced, without prior permission of Due E ast Media L td.

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ISSUE ONE… SUMMER 2016

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SOM E GOOD N EWS!

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he past year may have been gruelling for us humans but we’re happy to report birdlife here in coastal Suffolk has soared.

That’s according to wildlife photographer John Richardson, pictured bottom left, who’s noticed more bird breeds on these shores than usual.

This wonderful short-eared owl, for example, pictured bottom, was caught on his camera at Shingle Street.

“These turn up September to March from Scandinavia, and winter here if there is enough prey,” says John. “They will stay close to the coast, though if there’s a lack of prey they will move inland.”

John has also captured the likes of the rarely seen great grey shrike (pictured middle), at Upper Hollesley Common, which is another bird that turns up in autumn in order to winter here.

Among the words introduced to the Oxford E nglish Dictionary last year was ‘ anthropause’ and, the OE D explained, it refers to ‘ the global slowdown of travel and other human activity during the pandemic, and alludes to some of the welcome consequences of this slowdown.’

We’ve all seen the odd feel-good story about nature’s boost during this past year: the herd of deer who took over an empty corner of a once-busy E ast L ondon; the goats who did likewise in L landudno; and the goose who thought the empty train station in Y ork was the perfect place to lay her eggs.

Here in Suffolk, it’s been nothing but good news for birdlife.

Local home owners… throw open their doors Child free zones?… meet the couple with the Parent Pod! Is grey just so last year?… Jojo Humes Brown on colours

YOUR BRAND NEW FREE HOMES & LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

“Sand martins did particularly well” SUE G RE E N, RSPB MINSME RE

A bove: Wildlife photographer John Richardson has witnessed an explosion in certain populations of birdlife locally Top to bottom: John’s recent shots of

“The first lockdown of 2020 came at a pivotal point in spring, which is the nesting season for many species,” explains Sue G reen of RSPB Minsmere.

As a result, she says many breeding pairs who spend the winter months overseas returned to a practically empty landscape, with ample places to build their homes!

“The skeleton staff who remained here over lockdown noticed birds had started nesting far closer to ‘ human’ spaces, like the trail paths, than they normally do.

“Sand martins did particularly well,” Sue remembers.

These are gregarious members of the swallow family who make their nests by burrowing into dry, sandy banks – like the sand quarry near Minsmere’s cafe!

Wildlife certainly became bolder: “This meant that even after we were allowed to reopen, many paths had to be kept shut to prevent them from being disturbed,” she adds.

“Not that we needed to worry! E ven when we started to get busy, the birds kept to their new nesting grounds.”

a short-eared owl at Shingle Street

l To discover some of the UK’s rarest wildlife, go to www.rspb.org.uk/ minsmere

a wryneck at Thorpeness, a great grey shike at Upper Hollesley Common, and

ISSUE ONE… SUMMER 2016

5

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It’s all too easy to dwell on the negative nowadays, so we asked what makes you smile …

“Visiting castles and having hot chocolate!”

“I like the castles in Suffolk.

My favourite is Orford Castle, and I also like having a hot chocolate at the Pump Street Bakery when we visit there!”

Billy Adams, aged sevenand-one-month

Picture by James Scott

Reasons to be cheerful!

“The golden hour” “Suffolk is brimming with artists and artistic events, and no wonder! They are inspired by what’s known as Suffolk’s bewitching golden hour. Those special hours between 5pm and 7pm offer a magical orange hue, which is incredible.

“It makes the whole place even more beautiful and is a favourite of landscape artists.”

Samantha Barnes, Artist, Woodbridge “Our fabulous coastline …”

“Suffolk has more than 50 miles of beautiful, mostly unspoilt coastline – it’s been there for thousands of years and will still be there once we’re all allowed to explore it again properly.

Just taking the dog for a quick stroll is invigorating and life-affirming. I have friends who live in big sprawling cities and they crave this kind of fresh air, nature rush and freedom.

I’ll never, ever stop feeling lucky to live here.”

Sue Williams, Felixstowe

“Having a dip!”

“I feel so grateful for all the places there are to walk and swim.

I particularly love Minsmere / Dunwich beach, and am also enjoying the inland and coastal spots for winter dipping – Bawdsey and the Ufford Hole are current favourites.”

Neena Atkinson, Coastal resident “Suffolk making its mark!”

“I love that Suffolk lad Ralph Fiennes brought such magic to the screens lately in the wonderful film, The Dig, which also stars Carey Mulligan (and is now streaming on Netflix).

All about the 1930s discovery at Sutton Hoo, it made me proud as punch to live just down the road from this incredible place steeped in historical significance.

“We have such history in these parts, it makes one feel so grounded, and connected to a bigger thing.”

Pat Harris, Coastal resident l If you’ve got something wonderful and joyous to share, write to us at info@livinginsuffolk.com

17 CHURCH STREET, WOODBRIDGE, SUFFOLK IP12 1DS +44 (0)7702 877081 www.vanil.co.uk Open Tuesday to Saturday, 10.30am–5.30pm

MOTHE R’S “M Y DA UGHTER A N D I SET UP A SUCCESSFUL PA IN TIN G PROJECT IN LOCKDOWN ” Maria (left) and daughter L ia share a talent for painting Picture by M att Brooke

A bove: L ia’s unique ‘ extraction’ technique Right: Floral paintings by Maria

ISSUE ONE… SUMMER 2016

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“When the first lockdown struck, I wanted it to be as positive an experience as possible,” recalls graphic design lecturer Maria Fletcher. “We were painting for ourselves as we wanted to fill the house full of art and joy to help counter the awfulness of the pandemic.

“L ia was painting a lot anyway as she was doing her art G CSE at the time. So I posted some of our work on my private Instagram account and an ex-student commented that we should try selling it.”

An idea was born, and the pair decided to help raise funds for charity into the bargain.

“We set up an Insta account as @ motherdaughtercreate and pledged 70% of our initial sales to Cancer Research.

In all honesty, I thought we’d get about 10 followers!” laughs Maria. Now they have more than 1,500 followers and have sold their wonderful artwork throughout Suffolk and well beyond.

“Raising the money for charity became quite addictive and in the end I think we’d made about £ 1,200 by last July.”

Maria and L ia are now showcasing their lovely work in this month’s (March) prestigious online charity exhibition Bloom, with its botanical theme, for Art for Cure. Maria’s gorgeous painting also entitled Bloom, which graces our front cover, is used as the banner for the show’s promotional material.

“We also have to thank Mandy L eeson at V anil in Woodbridge, who really helped

to raise our profile locally with endless support,” she says.

Maria says she and L ia, who is 16 , sometimes work on their own individual paintings in the same room of their Suffolk home, and sometimes separately.

The pair have different styles, as shown in the photos below. “L ately L ia has started using pictures of plants, blowing them up and honing in on that part, rather than the whole plant. We call it extraction.”

Maria says art is a really lovely way for a mother and daughter to connect, reminiscent of the times when L ia was a toddler and would joyfully go to their big art cupboard at home to embark on a creative afternoon.

L ia says working with her mum has been a real eye-opener.

“My mum is a perfectionist in some weird way,” she smiles, saying that her proudest achievement has been raising money for Art for Cure. “And we’re really looking forward to our first exhibition this summer.”

Maria says she values L ia’s opinion very highly.

“Y our family can be brutal when it comes to advice, but I know she’ll be completely honest with me about my work, which I appreciate.” l The pair will be ex hibiting in the A ldeburgh Gallery in A ugust. Find them on Insta: @motherdaughtercreate or go to www.motherdaughtercreate.com

PRIDE

To mark Mothering Sunday on March 14th, we chat to three Coastal mum and daughter teams about their very special working relationships

“IT’S HILA RIOUS WORKIN G WITH M UM !”

Post Office pals: K ay and her mum, Susan

“I ON CE WORKED FOR M UM A N D N OW SHE WORKS WITH M E” K ay Stiff says she wouldn’t be without her mum, Susan Sz ymanski, who works alongside her at Southwold Food & G ifts and Post Office. And she says she’s learnt about business from the very best!

“I used to work for Mum; she and Dad ran two jewellery shops in Norwich.

I started working for them when I was 14, as a Saturday job.”

K ay says nowadays she loves having Susan around, who enjoys a part-time role at the shop in Southwold’s High Street.

“She’s very experienced in retail and is lovely with the customers. She’s also got a good eye for design: when you’re doing shop displays featuring gifts, it has to look really pretty and she’s really creative with all of that.

“There’s just something lovely about having your mum around; she’s my best friend and we have a giggle.”

Mum-of-two K ay says Susan has always been a rock of support to her.

“My eldest boy, who is eight years old, is autistic and has been out of school for two years, so Mum’s been a massive support at home as well as at work. I simply couldn’t be without her. “ l Call the shop on 0 15 0 2 723 18 8 or fi nd it on Insta: @southwold_ food_ gifts

Sally Hicks set up the highly successful Tilley & G race fashion and accessories retail and wholesale empire. Six years ago her daughter Sarah joined the family firm which Sally runs with husband, Perry.

So we put it to Sally and Sarah: mums and daughters working together … can it really work?

“Definitely!” smiles mum-of-four Sally. “I think we have a greater understanding of our individual capabilities and if you complement each other’s skills it can make a great partnership.”

Sarah, who brings a fresh and vital eye in design and marketing to the firm, wholeheartedly agrees: “And it’s really fun too!”

Sally says the advantages of working together include being able to share in the excitement of growing the business together, though she smiles, “Sarah answering back!” can be a distinct disadvantage.

Sarah adds: “Working together is intuitive because you know each other so well. “Q uite often I will know what Mum is thinking without her having to say it, so it’s easy to be on the same page.”

The duo certainly have a laugh together, and Sally says they’re never happier than when they’re trying on new samples as they arrive at Tilley & G race HQ .

There’s never a dull day.

“I think it’s hilarious watching Mum’s idiosyncrasies come out in front of other members of staff, sharing her madness with others!” laughs Sarah.

But there’s clearly a lot of respect there too.

“Sarah is so capable and adaptable,” smiles Sally. “She can turn her hand to anything … particularly to the technical side of the business … and her diet is a lot healthier than mine!”

She says she was never prouder than when Sarah recently unveiled a fabulous all-singing, user-friendly new website for the firm as lockdown forced their customers online.

Sarah says: “Mum has an amaz ing eye for product and knows her market incredibly well.

She’s also a hard negotiator!”

A family in fashion: So is there anything they Tilley & G race would do differently if they lynchpins Sarah were starting out all over again? (right) amd mum “Probably define clearer Sally (inset) boundaries,” says Sally. “More for me than for Sarah! As we both grew with the business, the roles were never very well defined, which could cause added stress.”

Sarah says “And I’d get Mum an intensive six-week course on how to open her emails and add attachments!”

They’re both incredibly proud of all they’ve achieved, working in perfect harmony as the business continues to go from strength to strength. L ong may it continue! l For more information on Tilley & Grace, to see all its latest fashion lines and accessories, and to place an order online, go to www.tilleyandgrace.co.uk

ADVE

RTISE ME NT FE ATURE

Share the love this spring!

Sending virtual love when you can’t be there in person with T& G ’s new Pink Points scheme …

W

e all know firsthand how difficult it’s been not being able to see our family and friends over the past ten months, especially when we’re all in need of a pick-me-up. In the absence of meeting up for a coffee or having a wander around town, Tilley & G race has come up with some quick and easy ways to tell someone you’re thinking of them, or even give yourself a boost, with some fabulous new online features.

The team have been working hard over lockdown to bring their in-store offering to customers online. They launched a brand new website in November that’s incredibly easy to use and has more items available than ever before.

“Ordinarily, the majority of our shop items are not available online,” says Sarah Hicks (pictured modelling their fabulous range of clothes available online). “But we now have pretty much every line available on our website, and we are introducing new features all the time, such as our loyalty and rewards programme.”

T& G ’s new Pink Points scheme allows customers to earn as they spend; for every 150 points earned, customers will receive 10% off their next order. That’s not all: if you refer a friend you will each receive 15% off your next orders. It’s effortless – send your love with just one click of a button!

“We know how tough it is for everyone at the minute, financially and emotionally,” says Sarah. “This has affected us all, so we wanted to give back to our customers where we can.

“If a 10 or 15% saving brightens up your day or sends a message of love to a friend

“We know how tough it is for everyone at the minute … so we wanted to give back to our customers” SARAH HICK S, TIL L E Y & G RACE

or relative, then we’ve done our job!”

It’s easy to trivialise something like shopping – it seems totally non-essential.

But popping out to browse your favourite shop is programmed into a collective sense of normality and wellbeing for a lot of people. Whether it’s buying a candelabra or a Creme E gg, we make these purchases to bring a little joy into our day.

“We know online shopping can’t replace the social aspect of a day out moseying around the shops,” says Sarah.

“But we can try to forge a more interactive experience between friends and family.

“For example, on our website you can now add Favourite Items to your Wishlist, A vailable from the Tilley & Grace website, clockwise from above: Silk scarf, £ 30; leather multi-way bag, £ 75; sweatshirt, £ 35 and camo trousers, £ 38; turtleneck jumper, £ 45; leather handbag, £ 6 4

ISSUE ONE… SUMMER 2016

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which you can then send on to your friends to see what they think. If you like each other’s choices, you can both use your referral code to save 15% .”

It’s a great idea for Mother’s Day: ask your mum to make a Wishlist and send it to you, then you can surprise her with something from it on the day. On this page, Tilley & G race founder Sally Hicks has chosen her top picks, modelled by daughter Sarah, for a guaranteed hit this Mothering Sunday. l To view the full range and for more information on the Pink Points scheme, visit www.tilleyandgrace.co.uk

MOVERS SHAKERS

&

Living In … meets East Anglian print designer Lucy Tiffney, renowned for her vibrant botanicalinspired mural wallpapers and homeware …

We LOVE your designs, how did it all start?

I trained as a textile designer a long time ago and in one form or another have always worked in the creative industry. I decided a few years ago to take the plunge and start my own business.

the homewares collection/collaboration for Debenhams.

You have such a distinctive style!

I have always worked on a large scale … and the bold, painterly approach has evolved over the years. I’m so flattered that people like my designs.

And favourite place in Suffolk?

Southwold and Aldeburgh – loads of childhood memories of swimming in the sea with my grandparents! I never get bored of visiting.

What are your style influences?

There are so many influences, Matisse is my hero … colour, pattern and happiness are my key inspirations.

We love your Allium wallpaper (pictured below right) …

A couple of years ago when I first made my studio on the top floor of my (late) dad’s house, he said he’d like it in the kitchen. So one day when he went out for a few hours we pasted it up on the wall! He was so thrilled and happy to see it.

How are you coping with work in lockdown?

Being an artist, I often work in quite a solitary environment anyway – lockdown has forced me to be even more creative with new ideas/ experiments.

Your biggest professional achievement?

Building a successful business in a relatively short space of time – also

Your favourite place in the world?

I think Japan; it’s like being in a cartoon!

So many beautiful and contrasting elements – my sister lived there for a while.

When are you happiest?

Hand painting murals is my favourite thing, I find it so relaxing. l Go to www.lucytiffneyshop.com or find Lucy on Insta: @lucytiffney

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ON THE RIGHT PA GE! Managing director of Sandlings Properties, Bob Page, on why now is the best time to build …

Tell us about your newly- relaunched company …

“It’s named after Sandlings Walk, an epic 58-mile trek which takes you through some of the most beautiful parts of the Suffolk landscape and wonderful wildlife. It’s in the very middle of where we like to do our work – although we’ll always travel further afield for an interesting job! We’re proud to live in this wonderful part of the world, and even prouder to build beautiful things here.”

What’s your background in the construction business?

“I enjoyed school but was always very practical. I dreamed of a job that involved building things and spent many weekends and school holidays helping a relative with the renovation of their G eorgian home. This led me to a very rewarding carpentry apprenticeship with a large regional contractor. V ery soon I gained a reputation for producing quality work – a passion that has stayed with me throughout my long and varied career.”

A nd after that?

“I accepted a position with Robert Norman Construction, which quickly gained a reputation for the delivery of a quality project.

We specialised in the building and refurbishment of high-end residential homes for individual private clients. Whether it’s a private house, community venue or school, there is nothing more satisfying than handing over the keys to an excited and appreciative client. It’s a very personal thing working in people’s homes and a privilege which demands respect.”

Tell us about Sandlings Properties?

“I joined last year. At the time, the business was closely linked to its very successful larger sister company, SE H French, and lacked its own identity. I was given a blank piece of paper to reshape how we did things and the renaming to Sandlings Properties is a big part of our plans. We want to stand tall in the local construction market and that means being great at everything we do. I’m so excited about leading the team to make that happen.”

Why is now a good time to appoint a builder?

“In my opinion, there has never been a better time! With light at the end of the pandemic tunnel, we should all now have the confidence to invest. We have also learnt how important our homes are. The normal 9–5 office experience will be a thing of the past for many commuters and we think that will lead to more and more residential schemes. On the commercial side, we are also seeing considerable demand as government continues to invest in the economy and many businesses can also see a bright future.”

A ny local successful projects?

“Sandlings prides itself on building beautiful, innovative, sustainable or quirky projects. The Old G ranary in Woodbridge and Castle Terrace in Orford (pictured) are two such examples.”

Renovating or ex tending your home seems like a no- brainer …

“In most circumstances, it will ultimately pay you back over time, but sometimes it’s just about giving yourself a long awaited treat!

Maybe it’s been a long-standing dream to put that extension on, or have that personal space that you have always wanted, or even build your dream home. I say have what you want and enjoy the time you have it. L et’s face it, in these uncertain times none of us know what’s around the corner, so just do it while you can!”

A ny tips on appointing a builder?

“I believe in honesty and open communications. Choosing a building partner that understands how important that is will pay huge dividends and ultimately build trust. Don’t be afraid to ask questions – there is no such thing as a silly question, only a silly answer! If a builder is not prepared to spend time explaining things, my advice would be to find someone else. Also, don’t be fooled into thinking the lowest cost is the best value. E nsure there is a comprehensive cost breakdown so you can understand what is included and what isn’t. Open and honest communication also underpins a healthy commercial relationship.”

l Got a project? Contact Sandlings on 0 14 73 23 8 4 4 4 or visit sandlings.uk

ISSUE ONE… SUMMER 2016

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wo-thousand and twenty-one – the Y ear of the Jab. Since last we met: Trump gone, Brexit done, day eleventy-billion of L ockdown 3: Next Slide Please, Captain Tom gone.

RIP. L ive music is still being hit although future and rescheduled gigs are being advertised. G lastonbury cancelled, but L atitude Festival still hanging on for July. It’s beginning to feel a bit more normal, if you can remember what that’s like.

SO … WHA T’S THE STORY ?

Justine de Mierre (pictured above) is a local storyteller and singer and the brains behind So… What’s the Story? , performing music, busking, improvising, holding open mic nights and telling stories. And then came lockdown.

She last performed in the flesh in March 2020. L ike many creative bods, to keep going Justine had to adapt, and quick. Z oom fast became her friend. (What did we do before Z oom? Discuss.) Justine started booking artists to appear on Z oom sessions – and it’s worked. Indeed, she has often made more money from these than ‘ normal’ events.

Instead of passing the hat around in a pub, people seem to be happier to ‘ pay as you feel’ online. Open mic sessions online also mean that costs are less: no travelling, venue hire, catering. A bigger chunk for the performers, which doesn’t always happen in the real world.

Another advantage is the accessibility to such events.

People who couldn’t normally attend, for whatever reason, suddenly are just a click away. The private chat messaging on Z oom also allows people to contact Justine during sessions when they might be too shy to put their hand up in a live situation.

A happy accident is that, before lockdown, she’d book an act, who might travel up to the gig with maybe a few mates. With online gigs, those same acts tell their mates and suddenly there are scores of people tuning in. Justine says she has met people online that she would never come across in real life. She even made a music video with one, using online technology without actually meeting her collaborator in the flesh.

L ockdown will end one day, but Justine thinks she’ll keep her Z oom sessions going, probably livestreaming events too. Technology. Who knew it could work for us? l Go to www.facebook.com/ sowhatsthestory

RICHA RD A N D LIN DA THOM PSON , I WA N T TO SEE THE BRIGHT LIGHTS TON IGHT, 19 74 Richard Thompson is G od in my book. Not Clapton.

His membership in Fairport Convention is enough to secure his legacy. I Want to See the Bright L ights Tonight, 1974, was the first album made with his then-wife L inda. They were living in a Sufi community in Suffolk so there’s a tenuous local connection.

It’s bathed in a warm, early 70s analogue glow with dulcimers, tin whistles, accordion, mandolin, along with the usual acoustic guitars and electric ones. L inda’s voice is strong and folky, as is Richard’s. His guitar playing is gorgeous, ranging from slow acoustic picking to full-on electric rock-pig workouts, with strumming and graceful lead breaks in between. It’s folk but not in a finger-in-the-ear, fiddly-diddly way. It’s more the feel, phrasing and, well, E nglishness. The songs are folk in the sense they tell tales, about real things: mainly love and death.

A great album. Richard Thompson loves songs as a form: how they’re put together, how they work, how we connect with them.

With L inda he produced a timeless set of them here. Not flash or cool, maybe, but well put together with amaz ing singing and Thompson’s liquid guitar. A hidden gem.

Richard Thompson is due to, hopefully, play Ipswich Corn E xchange in July. G o see him.

M ELODY M A KER …

Coastal singer-songwriter Caswell has been busy working on new material for release later this year.

“A definite positive from this weird time is having to become even more self-reliant,” she says. “And there’s no tour planning or rehearsing to be distracted by, so it’s full writing mode!”

She’s no stranger to success, having won a coveted ‘ battle of the bands’ competition in 2019, the priz e for which was to open for E d Sheeran in Ipswich. The year before she’d opened for Pixie G eldof and was selected by BBC Introducing to play L atitude.

“I miss performing so much, it really is my lifeblood,” she says.

“I can’t wait to get back to it.” l Go to www.caswelloffi cial.com l Got a musical story or event? Email carl@livinginsuffolk.com

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M Y FA VOURITE Aldeburgh-based landscape photographer Daniel Ruffl es on why there’s no place like home …

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y passion for photography started at a very young age, when my father gave me a basic Halina film camera. From then on, anywhere I went I was capturing the world around me. During my teenage years, I put the camera down for some time and it wasn’t until my mid-20s that I picked it back up again. This time it was a digital SL R and my subjects were predominantly automotive, as I was attending a lot of car shows at the time, along with some motorsport events at various racetracks in the UK . After that, I moved on to capturing the beautiful Suffolk coastline.

From the beautiful countryside walks to the stunning beaches, I love it here in coastal Suffolk. Through the seasons, it always seems to deliver something different. The coastline is constantly

Top: Aldeburgh beach A bove: Self-taught Daniel has a real talent Right: “The pink V alerian gave a really nice seasonal feel” ISSUE ONE… SUMMER 2016

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changing, especially places such as Covehithe, Shingle Street and Bawdsey.

Originally, I was Norfolk-based, however, I’d find myself exploring and capturing these vast landscapes at weekends. I moved to this beautiful seaside town two years ago with my partner, and we’ve both enjoyed many of the various walks, but this one in particular is a favourite.

When I’m walking, I often like to make my way towards the well-known Scallop by Maggi Hambling and then head into Aldeburgh via the sea wall. From there, you can take in the many shacks and boats that are situated on the beach. It would then be rude not to take a pit stop at the Two Magpies bakery for

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a sweet treat and a coffee! From there, I usually carry on walking towards Slaughden and take the path back that leads towards the allotments and K ings Field. It’s very much a circular route which shows you the best of Aldeburgh.

At sunrise and sunset, there are various spots that just come to life. Heading out early, I often have my camera with me. Recently I managed to grab a beautiful sunrise by two of the boats (pictured bottom left). The pink valerian was out at the time too, and this gave a really nice seasonal feel to the composition.

I’m a firm believer in embracing the elements and getting out there. I find walking very good for your wellbeing and mental health, and it’s always nice to explore and find new routes, be it in your hometown or further afield.

Photography is my hobby and passion. My proudest moment came when I was shortlisted for six images in the L andscape Photographer of The Y ear competition last year. Despite not going further, this was a great feeling, especially considering the number of entries that are submitted each year. I’d also made a couple of

magaz ine features last year too, which was great.

In terms of the future, I’m hoping to get some exhibitions in the pipeline once places can open up and we can get out again. I had some work in both a local cafe here in Aldeburgh and at The G eorge Farnham G allery in Saxmundham, both of which received a great reception. I’ve received some fantastic feedback on the work from people that have purchased prints. This is always a pleasure, and I’m extremely grateful to those who invest in my work. I’ve currently been working on a print store via my website and this will also be online soon!”

Local home owners… throw open their doors Child free zones?… meet the couple with the Parent Pod! Is grey just so last year?… Jojo Humes Brown on colours

YOUR BRAND NEW FREE HOMES & LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

l For more information on Daniel’s amaz ing work, go to www.danielianphotography.com l Insta: @danielianphotography

Left: Maggi Hambling’s The Scallop Below: “V arious spots come to life at sunset”

“I fi nd walking very good for your wellbeing and mental health”

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Y OU R

SP A C E. Y OU R

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OR L D .

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Hom e offic es. C reativ e spaces. L uxury cabins. e design, manufacture and install beautifully bespoke custommade spaces that combine creativ ity with functionality.

www.multispaceuk.com info@m ultispaceuk.com 013 9 4 8 0228

0

@ multispaceuk

ADV E RTISE ME NT FE ATURE

SPA CE THE FIN A L FRON TIER! New kid on the block Multi Space offers an exciting new vision in living and working …

S

pace is the one thing we have all valued, appreciated or craved during these strange and trying times. And no one understands this more than the many-faceted team at Multi Space.

The concept of Multi Space – the company that designs, manufactures and installs custom-made spaces – was thought up by partners in life and business, Sydney Bales and Aimee Anderson, and their good friend (latterly business partner) James Taylor.

“We saw a gap in the market to offer truly bespoke and high quality spaces to allow our customers to separate their home and work lives,” smiles Aimee from their striking new Design Centre at Base Business Park in Rendlesham. “Not just a posh shed in the garden, but a custom-made structure that is built to last. I have first-hand experience of the incredible difference it makes to your productivity and creativity when working from a space that is designed just for you.”

The company provides high-quality spaces for residential, hospitality, commercial and community purposes that help future-proof your home or business, supporting a far more sustainable work/life balance.

Aside from the extra room they offer, he says, these lovely spaces make for a great investment. “And when you look at one of these on the private side of things, it could achieve an uplift of 15% on your house value.”

With large properties currently at a premium on the housing market, the outlay of having a new space built could be a far more attractive option than moving home to upsiz e.

“We are getting an increasing number of enquiries about studio spaces for art, dance and other creative

mediums,” says Aimee. “A custom-made space is ideal for providing a calm environment for focus and inspiration.”

She says the initial idea was a result of a casual discussion between her and Sydney, “when most of the world was forced to work from home. We then talked the ideas through with James who shared our excitement and drive for it!”

They certainly have the credentials and craftsmanship to build contemporary spaces which will, ultimately, add value to your home.

“We saw a gap in the market” Aimee Anderson, Multi Space

James is founding MD of award-winning interior fit-out and joinery specialist, TMJ Interiors. His past high-profile projects include working at Windsor Castle and the Olympic Stadium as well as local ventures, such as Bury St E dmunds Cathedral and Suffolk One L ibrary.

Meanwhile, Sydney has over 15 years’ experience in the construction industry, initially working as a sole trader and then setting up his general building and construction company SBC Services with Aimee in 2018. Aimee brings her sales and marketing experience as well as excellent organisational skills to “help keep the boys on track!”

Together this dream team offer an unrivalled level of quality, service and choice to their customers. l To fi nd out more or to book an appointment, call 0 13 9 4 8 0 228 0 or visit www.multispaceuk.com l M ulti Space, Design Centre, H1, Base Business Park, Rendlesham, Suffolk IP12 2TZ

Multi Space office dog Pedro

Homeware supplied by Vanil in Woodbridge, photography

by Jenny at blink2 photography ISSUE ONE… SUMMER 2016

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CONFE SSIONS OF A G ARDE NE R … “

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pring is on the way, then, and with it hope and optimism for the coming year. The days lengthen and we shake off our torpor after what seems like an eternity of winter for certain reasons way beyond our control.

It always amaz es me, no matter how many years go by, that we seem to forget the joyous heralds of spring. Whether it’s the snowy dusting of blackthorn blossom on Suffolk hedges; the plaintive call of the chiffchaff, arriving in March from southern climes; or the profusion of flowering bulbs in gardens everywhere.

“I’d tired of the profusion of bulky daffodils, some of which no longer fl ower” During the last two wet winters, forays out to dig late potatoes have been one of the few tasks possible. So I look forward to warmer, drier weather when I can venture out and get on with things, rather like Mole from The Wind in the Willows, irately going about his spring cleaning!

Nevertheless, back in autumn I added

a drift of the wonderful Cornus ‘ Midwinter Fire’ in a spot where their fiery stems just catch the westering sun, an effect that will persist until they come into leaf and will be all the more striking next year when they’ve grown a bit.

Spring will be richer for the division and replanting of perennials I did back in autumn, particularly oriental poppies, which have become multiple clusters throughout the borders, already coming into leaf.

Much as I enjoy bulbs, I’d tired of the profusion of bulky daffodils, some of which no longer flower in our garden. They hang around at the front of borders, long outstaying their welcome and obscuring less demonstrative low-growing treasures like E uphorbia cyparrisias and mossy saxifrage, with their thuggish leaves.

Not a word to the wife, but I spent some hours removing them back in autumn and I’m delighted that I’ll be able to see more of the garden this spring.”

By Nick Nicholson

A bove: A chiffchaff calls Below: The perennial mossy saxifrage AK A Saxifraga bryoides

l N ick teaches horticulture at Suffolk Rural ( Otley) . For more information on courses there, go to www.suffolk.ac.uk/ course- categories/ suffolk- rural

SERVICES

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Surf to turf!

W

hen Covid struck last year, it set Stewart Howard’s life on a very different course.

“I was made redundant from my role at a local travel firm, so I started looking for new horiz ons,” he explains. “I heard through a neighbour that the regional G reen Thumb franchise was for sale and I thought: Why not? So after cashing in all my nest eggs, I took the gamble and purchased the business last October.”

Stewart says the venture into lawn care services has paid off and business is flourishing.

“It’s not really affected by the pandemic, as we always work outside and can communicate with our customers from a safe distance,” he says.

Originally from Cheshire, Stewart enjoyed a career in the cruise line industry spanning some 25 years.

“I was based in Florida, working

on ships carrying up to 5,000 guests and 1,200 crew,” he smiles. There he met wife Tania, and their two sons were born in Miami.

“The job was great but I missed my family back home, so I found a land-based position with a cruise line based in E ngland.

“We all moved over – including the dog and two cats!”

It was then that he was made redundant and bought the G reen Thumb franchise which covers E ast Suffolk.

“My wife misses the Florida sun but we’re happy to be living in Suffolk, which is one of the warmest and prettiest parts of E ngland!”

He says he’s greatly enjoying his new role.

“It gives me a good balance between being in the office and being on the lawns themselves, where you can walk up to ten miles a day while treating the grass.”

l For more information, call Stewart and his team on 0 13 9 4 4 6 0 9 0 8 or email them at suffolkeast@greenthumb.co.uk

STEWA RT’S TOP TIPS FOR LA WN CA RE l Never cut your lawn too short – no less than 25mm (1in) in normal conditions or 50mm (2in) during dry spells, as this weakens the grass plant and encourages lawn disease, weeds and moss. l Water your lawn every one to two days during dry periods and try to water early morning or in the evening to avoid evaporation. l Aerate and scarify once a year as this removes compaction, breaks down thatch and allows muchneeded air, water and nutrients to reach the roots.

PREPARE YOUR LAWN TO ENJOY THE YEAR AHEAD

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BUSINE SS BUL L E TIN All the latest from around our region …

RE ADY TO RE TIRE ?

Would you love to have that dream extension on your home but can’t quite raise the funds? Or maybe you’ve still got an outstanding mortgage left and want to unburden yourself of tiresome monthly payments. Rising house prices mean that the over-55s have more equity than ever locked up in their homes, equity that can be accessed using a L ifetime Mortgage.

Unlike other forms of equity release, a L ifetime Mortgage can unlock tax-free cash from your home whilst you retain full ownership. Suffolk’s equity release specialist, Richard Haste, is offering

SE RV ICE WITH A SMIL E

no-obligation meetings to explain how this works, along with the impacts that it could have on your estate’s value and entitlement to means-tested benefits. l Call Richard now on 0 75 6 8 5 0 5 4 0 4 , or for more information go to www. responsible.org.uk/ richardhaste/

Responsible E quity Release is a trading style of Responsible L ife L imited. Only if your case completes will RL L charge an advice fee, currently not exceeding £ 1,490.

The window displays at fashion and homewares boutique Moose are always an inspiration.

Owner Sam Cook says: “I give my friend my ideas and she ‘ creates’ – she never fails to come up with something gorgeous. I’m very grateful to her and my wonderful team.”

Sam, who comes from an HR background, took over the shop in 2019.

“It’s been quite a bumpy ride since then with the first lockdown coming six months later,” she says. However, Moose is already renowned for its warm and friendly service.

“When I lived in Sydney, I was fortunate enough to work in a very high-end store where customer service was everything!” she smiles. “It taught me so much about customers and meeting their expectations.

“I’ve tried to carry this ethos into Moose.

Ultimately, an exceptional in-store experience is the only advantage the local high street has over online shopping and we try to offer that to everyone who walks through the door.”

We can’t wait for those doors to open again soon! l M oose, M arket Hill, Woodbridge. Insta: @mooseonthehill. Call 0 13 9 4 3 8 26 9 1.

Y OU’L L COME A-WAL TZ ING !

The residents of Allonsfield House in Campsea Ashe recently enjoyed a trip down under – all from the comfort of their own chairs!

A delicious indoor ‘ barbie’ – prepared by the luxury care home’s very own talented chef, Darrell Smith – was greatly enjoyed in the light-filled conservatory in celebration of Australia Day. There were smiles all round as everyone enjoyed Aussie songs, including a bracing chorus of Waltz ing Matilda.

The jolly afternoon was completed with a quiz and games.

Home manager, Judith MorganWorrall, who gamely sported a kangaroo outfit for the occasion, tells us: “It certainly brightened everyone’s

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day. Some of our residents have visited Australia in the past and shared their memories.”

l For further information including availability at Allonsfield House, go to www.kingsleyhealthcare.co.uk

SPIRITUAL PATH …

Demian Allan, astrologer for The G uardian and the magaz ines K indred Spirit and Mind Body Spirit, will be hosting a fascinating online astrology course via Z oom next month (April).

Coastal resident Demian was a senior lecturer at The College of Psychic Studies and has, in the past, held the title of president of the British Astrological and Psychic Society.

This programme is designed for beginners or those who have a little experience in astrology.

“The purpose of the course,” Demian tells us, “is to understand your own birth chart and to develop your own spiritual path.”

A HOL ISTIC APPROACH TO SK IN …

Dynamic duo Nikki Mundy and L aura Jennings have pooled their talents to open up their amaz ing skin and health clinic, L N Aesthetics.

Based in the heart of Felixstowe, opposite the main car park on Crescent Road, the clinic offers a professional and discreet service with treatments administered by a highly experienced and fully qualified aesthetics nurse.

l For more details or to book your place, visit his website, www.demianallan.com

A G OOD Y ARN! According to Darell Smith of Archway Carpets, well-cared-for sheep produce superior fleeces, so it goes without saying that wool carpets make exceptional flooring.

He says: “The wool used from the Herdwick sheep for the stunning L akeland Herdwick range produces a high-performance carpet with the same soft, warm resilience as the yarn from which it’s made.”

Native to the L ake District’s Cumbrian Fells, this durable and eco-sustainable range is super soft underfoot yet a warrior when it comes to durability.

PROMOTING WE L L BE ING AND SUSTAINABIL ITY

L aura (left) and Nikki (inset) of L N Aesthetics

l Find A rchway Carpets at 7 Church Street, Woodbridge. Call 0 13 9 4 3 8 6 6 8 4 or go to www.archwaycarpets.co.uk If you’re looking for unique gift ideas this Mother’s Day or maybe an uplifting treat for yourself, you need look no further than Botanical Forrest.

This big-hearted, Suffolk-based company is producing exquisite scented candles and wax melts which harness many calming and therapeutic benefits. They promote a dreamy sense of wellbeing which, let’s face it, we could all do with at the moment!

Made by hand in small batches, the products are made of 100% plant-based soy wax and natural cotton wicks.

Botanical Forrest made a conscious decision to be as environmentally friendly as possible, from the veganfriendly ingredients to the lovely packaging.

G iving back is important to the company, with 10% of sales of its Rose fragrance being donated to Suffolk Mind via the Work for G ood campaign. l For more information and to buy online, visit www.botanicalforrest.co.uk

“We believe in a holistic approach to skincare,” explains Nikki who, having worked in the aesthetics and beauty industry for four years, runs front-ofhouse at the clinic.

“We look at possible underlying root problems, treating your skin, as well as your body from inside out.”

Nurse prescriber L aura, who has advanced training in aesthetic medicine at a centre of excellence in Harley Street, says it’s all about enhancing what you already have.

“Our ethos is to offer a range of treatments at affordable prices and we believe everyone should be able to achieve their best possible version,” she says.

Treatments, among others, include dermal fillers, E nhanced Aesthetics Treatments (E AT), cryosurgery and B12 injections. They use medicalgrade products and peels using AlumierMD. New to the clinic is the market-leading Obagi range, which addresses skin ageing.

“All consultations are free and offer an in-depth assessment and facial examination,” adds Nikki. l www.lnaesthetics.com ISSUE ONE… SUMMER 2016

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SUFFOL K COASTAL CROSSWORD 1

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30 A N SWERS WILL BE PRIN TED IN OUR N EX T ISSUE A N SWERS FOR CROSSWORD IN ISSUE 25 . A CROSS: 1 UFFORD 4 ASSE SSOR 9 THOL E S 10 WANG FORD 12 UK IP 13 & 24 A RIV E R DE BE N 14 IK E N 17 HOL L E SL E Y BAY 20 UNAFFORDABL E 23 ROL L 24 (SE E 13A) 25 IDE A 28 SIZ E WE L L 29 MANÈ G E 3 0 SCRUNCHY 3 1 ME L TON DOWN : 1 UNTAUG HT 2 FL OTIL L A 3 RE E D 5 STATE L Y HOME S 6 E G G S 7 STOOK S 8 RODE NT 11 BIL L OF HE AL TH 15 ME ANS 16 SANDS 18 OBE DIE NT 19 CE TACE AN 21 TRY STS 22 BL AZ E R 26 SWAN 27 CAFE

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A CROSS 1 Shake not to make a visit here (8) 5 The state of many Continental dishes (6 ) 10 Sorbets are and winter roads often are (3) 11 One method of commuting from E . Suffolk (11) 12 Unwelcome guest on the River Deben (9) 13 ‘ B’ in radio talk, ‘ Well Done’ elsewhere (5) 15 Peace to the Jews (5) 17 Comestible treats from local bakers (7) 19 Bottom scraped/burnt (7) 21 V isual treats from the River Deben, etc. (6 ) 23 A short System Operator (Computing) (5)

24 Many New Y ear Resolutioners are tempted to (9) 26 Permit to pass through (7,4) 28 One of many welcoming local taverns (3) 29 V erb your compiler hopes will be considered (6 ) 3 0 Shroud blocks on sailing ships (8) DOWN 1 Many venues for this in Woodbridge area (6 ) 2 E legance often seen around town (11) 3 Welcome little guest on the River Deben (5) 4 E gg-shaped (7) 6 Posters at the Riverside Theatre (9) 7 G reek letter

giving air to the Chinese (3) 8 L odging familiar to many a husband (8) 9 A river management chore (6 ) 14 Prerequisite of good neighbourliness (11) 16 Maybe spotlamps in the street (9) 18 A lure for one form of public transport (1,3,4) 20 Pub or Parliament discussion (6 ) 21 On many people’s 2021 Wish L ist (7) 22 Common activities in 28 Across, in usual times (6 ) 25 A turf farmer’s dream (5) 27 Chic heavy range (3)

ISSUE ONE… SUMMER 2016

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A BOUT TOWN Local home owners… throw open their doors Child free zones?… meet the couple with the Parent Pod! Is grey just so last year?… Jojo Humes Brown on colours

YOUR BRAND NEW FREE HOMES & LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

“My name is Dave and I’m a tenweek-old cockapoo with a hint of Jack Russell in me!

The humans in my new family sometimes talk in a strange way.

Their voices go all high-pitched, saying: ‘ Y ou’re so sweet, you’re suuuuch a good boy, Dave!’

I mean, all I have to do is pee in the garden and the whole family seem to get very excited and shower me in love and praise, telling me I’m the cleverest dog on E arth – which I’m starting to believe.

My best friends are Bonnie and Buddy, who are ten and seven. They want to play all day, every day, and can outrun me.

My mum loves feeding me all sorts of delicious things (she keeps talking about the raw food diet, whatever that means) and I’m never happier than when I fall asleep in her arms. I’m told I’m good at football and digging holes in the garden, which I love truffling my nose into and having a good sniff! L ife couldn’t be better.” l Have you got a lovely dog and would like to give him or her their 15 minutes of fame? Write to the team at info@livinginsuffolk.com and send us your best photos.

L iving In … writer A bygail Fossett unearths all that our glorious region has to offer, this spring and beyond …

PRIDE! A brand new exhibition, Pride in Suffolk’s Past, is coming to the Ipswich waterfront, as soon as restrictions allow, as part of OUTing the Past, an international festival of L BG TQ + history.

Suffolk Archives has developed a countywide programme of activities to engage more people than ever before with Suffolk’s archival heritage. One of the largest initiatives is Sharing Suffolk Stories, a range of projects that support communities to explore more about the history of where they live; create their own responses to it through art, drama, exhibitions or digital media; and share their work as widely as possible.

Supported by The National L ottery Heritage Fund, one Sharing Suffolk Stories project is Pride in Suffolk’s Past. The aim of the project is two-fold: to explore and share the hidden stories of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer people in Suffolk, but also to collect contemporary stories of Suffolk’s L G BTQ + community, documenting people’s experiences through a period of monumental societal change towards sexuality and gender identity.

An enthusiastic group of volunteer researchers has been delving into the archives to discover stories about the experiences of both ordinary people and well-known local figures. They will be showcased at the exhibition at The Hold, a new heritage and archive centre on the Ipswich waterfront operating in conjunction with the University of Suffolk. The exhibition will run through to the end of June 2021 and will also be supported with a range of activities and events for a whole range of audiences. l For more information, go to www.suffolkarchives.co.uk l www.woodbridgepride.org.uk l Facebook/ Insta: woodbridgepride20 20 BLOOM IN ’ M A RVELLOUS Spring is just around the corner, and right on cue comes Art for Cure, bursting into life with its first show of the year, BL OOM, an exciting exhibition with a fresh, botanical theme. This free, virtual exhibition boasts a huge array of work from artists from Suffolk and beyond – including paintings by mother-daughter duo, Maria and L ia Fletcher, whose amaz ing painting graces our front cover (see also: Mother’s Pride, page eight).

Some of the artists will be delivering their own masterclasses, held on Saturday, March 6 th and 13th through Z oom, with a ticket for each class priced at just £ 20. We’re particularly excited about the ceramics class by Southwold’s Thea Cuttings, for children and grownups alike!

All proceeds from BL OOM will go towards a new cancer unit for Ipswich Hospital. (Be sure to buy a raffle ticket for closing night – we’ve heard exciting things about the priz es!) It runs from Friday, 5th March to Sunday, 21st March. l Purchase masterclass and raffl e tickets, and get more information, at www.artforcure.org.uk

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JUST WORDS At the age of 87, being in the first flush of a new career would be unthinkable to many. For Heather G oddin of Saxmundham, however, it’s full steam ahead, as she works on her fifth collection of poetry.

“I was 83 when I published my first collection, Before the Frost,” she proudly tells us. “And after that, I never stopped!”

She says it wasn’t until her 40s that she put pen to paper.

“Something must have triggered it in me, although I can’t say what. I carried on for 40 years, but in secret – I thought I was writing rubbish.”

But it’s often said that confidence develops over time, and years later Heather reread her poems.

“To my surprise, I thought they were rather good! So I began to share them, and eventually plucked up the courage to show them to a friend who is a poet and writer himself.”

The rest, as they say, is history.

“There is no theme to my poetry,” Heather explains.

“I write about being alive – the things which bring us joy, that cause us pain. The silly, the sad, and the things which strike us as rather quirky!”

She even gave us the privilege of reading an as-yet unpublished poem, written in lockdown. We are proud to have such a raw talent living in Suffolk. l Heather’s fourth collection of poetry, Just Words, is available from A maz on, Waterstones and Troubador.

VIRTUA L TOUR OF LON DON In recent months, we’ve seen a number of ingenious ways to enjoy ourselves without leaving the comfort of our own homes – and this is one of them! Participants in Roman Ruins to Blitz Bombings: The City of L ondon’s 2,000 Y ear History will be transported to the very heart of our capital and guided through two millennia of L ondon’s colourful past.

Highlights of the virtual tour include the bloody secrets and ghosts of the Tower of L ondon, kings, Romans, how Q ueen Boudicca is linked to Harry Potter (we are intrigued to find that one out!) and the easiest way to tunnel into the Bank of E ngland’s vaults. Thank goodness for Z oom!

It runs on various dates until April 1st. l For tickets, go to www.eventbrite.co.uk and search for ‘ Blitz bombings’

CON STA BLE COUN TRY Four fantastic new Constable artworks have been acquired for the Ipswich Museum collection. They include a landscape painted when John Constable, born in E ast Bergholt in 1776 , was aged just 17, and is among his earliest surviving works. Another, a pencil drawing of his younger brother, Abram, is believed to relate to his 1806 oil painting already housed in the museum’s collection.

The artworks were found in an album containing watercolours, drawings, poems and extensive texts, ranging from jokes and ditties to comments on contemporary events. Items date from the 1790s to 186 2.

The album, which came up for sale at Sotheby’s Old Master and British Works on Paper sale at the end of last year, was bought for £ 24,000 thanks to joint funding from the Friends of the Ipswich Museums, Arts Council E ngland/V & A Purchase G rant Fund, Art Fund and Ipswich Borough Council’s Felix Cobbold Bequest. l A special ex hibition will be curated at Christchurch M ansion in Ipswich this year to mark the 20 0 th anniversary of Constable’s The Hay Wain. Go to www. ipswich.cimuseums.org.uk SUFFOLK’S M ERM A ID PRIN CESS E veryone needs a little bit of sparkle in their lives, and that meant professional princess L ucy Roper had to think outside the box when the pandemic struck.

L ucy tells us: “Although the situation has seen lots of unfortunate business closures, I found a way to move mine online. Through personalised video messages, live video calls and Z oom ‘ parties with a princess’, I’ve managed to make magic remotely. I’ve also enjoyed doing free live streams for everyone to enjoy!”

In normal times, L ucy’s company offers princess appearances in the flesh, as well as birthday parties and teepee hire throughout Suffolk, North E ssex and surrounding areas. Her princesses range from characters such as the Ice Q ueen, Princess Beauty and the Wayfinder Princess.

Subject to lockdown being lifted, L ucy plans to host a Meet a Mermaid Princess Party at Southwold L ibrary on Wednesday, April 7th, for story time, magic wishes and games. l For more information, go to www.lucysprincessparties.co.uk or call 0 776 6 6 9 8 6 6 8 . l Facebook/ Insta: lucysprincessparties

BRA VE LITTLE BIRD Aldeburgh-based artist and children’s author Astra Taylor-Todd is enjoying watching her lovely book spread its wings.

The Blue Tit Travels Africa began as a series of drawings with a brave little bird as the main focus.

“This idea became a seven-book concept, one for each continent,” she tells us. “The adventurous Blue Tit will travel and meet endangered animals all around the world. On this journey of discovery, he will also learn that differences are to be celebrated and not feared.”

Her books are aimed at children between three and seven years old.

“Since its release, I have received an amaz ing response from teachers praising the strong message the book contains,” she smiles. “Children love the realism of my illustrations, which are rather unique, and they are enjoying the journey of the Blue Tit so far, as he travels to Africa in the first book.”

Astra says she became a full-time artist in April 2018 – before that she spent a few years enjoying many an adventure herself. “My biggest was the Pacific Crest Trail in the USA where I walked from the Mexican border to the Canadian border, all 1,800 miles of it,” she says. “That was in 2016 and an amaz ing summer.

“I quit my sales executive job (for Audi) back in 2014 and sold up everything for adventures around the world. I definitely had a few.

“On the journey, I decided on my return I would work as a full-time artist. Why not? Now or never, I thought. It was the right decision.”

Her colourful wild animals have since become her signature style. “Blue tits are my favourite birds as they have a lot of attitude,” she adds. “The subjects of conservation and exploration are connected and felt natural for the book. The main message though, is to not be scared of differences; we are all different and it should be embraced and not feared.” l Find A stra’s work on Insta: @astra_ original_ art and Facebook: astra.original.art l www.thebluetittravels.com

27

“Let food be thy medicine” L ocal nutritional therapist Catherine A rnold on how we can all boost our immunity during these uncertain times…

O

“

ver the last year, our world has been turned upside down as we face a pandemic. We are staying at home, washing our hands and adhering to the rules for social distancing.

But what else can we do to support our health right now?

Y ou will be pleased to know there is a lot you can do by making some changes to your diet and lifestyle. Now is surely the perfect time to implement some new habits and take a closer look at your health.

One of the things we know about the Covid-19 virus is the worst affected are the elderly and people already suffering with health issues. It seems the higher the level of inflammation present in the body as you go into a Covid infection, the more likely it is to overwhelm the immune system and lead to problems. So, reducing inflammation is key.

As a nutritional therapist, the first place I would look to start reducing inflammation, and to reduce the burden on the immune system, is the digestive tract, otherwise known as the gut.

As well as digesting your food, the gut is where 70–80% of all mature immune cells live and function. They live alongside an ecosystem of bacteria known as the microbiome. The microbiome directly communicates with our immune system cells. If we don’t have healthy levels of good bacteria in the gut, it can impact our immune function and ability to fight infection. It also means bad bacteria can flourish – and this leads to inflammation.

L ots of things can disrupt the

microbiome including junk food, alcohol, sugar, medications, stress and trauma (physical and mental). Whereas a diet high in a diverse range of vegetables and fibre will support a healthy microbiome, as it feeds and nourishes our good bacteria.

When I work with clients, I will often recommend they do a private stool test, so we can really understand what is living in their gut and then work to restore balance. But if you want to make some positive changes today, I recommend increasing your fruit and veg intake by two portions per day (about a handful is equal to one portion). Choose brightly coloured vegetables, and fruit such as berries. They are high in antioxidants and other immune boosting phytonutrients.

V itamin D is also important for immune function. It modulates immune cell responses and has anti-inflammatory

properties too. It’s wise to use a supplement as most of our vitamin D comes from the sun.

L ow-grade, chronic stress can also promote inflammation and impact your immune function. It’s vital to look at your stress levels and tune in to how you are feeling. Are you sleeping well? If not, this can exacerbate stress and impair immune function. Just going for a walk and getting the sun on your face can be a huge help.

But there are many tools you can use here, including meditation, yoga, therapy, exercise and breathing techniques.

“A diet high in a diverse range of vegetables and fi bre … feeds and nourishes our good bacteria” Cuddling your loved ones or your pet can also reduce stress levels, so try to build in some time to do this when you can! If you live alone, make sure you get out, go for a walk, speak to friends, keep socialised.

Do get in touch if you need more support with your health. I offer a free 15-minute chat to explain more about how nutritional therapy can help. The famous G reek physician Hippocrates said, around 440 BC: ‘ L et food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food.’ And it’s never held truer than it does today.” l catherinearnoldnutrition@gmail.com

ISSUE ONE… SUMMER 2016

28

ISSUE ONE… SUMMER 2016

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IN GREDIEN TS 2 tsp olive oil 1 garlic clove, crushed 1 field mushroom or a handful of button mushrooms (or try fresh shiitake or oyster), sliced 1 large handful of greens such as kale, spinach, sprout tops or spring greens, shredded finely 1/ 2

onion, sliced

1/ 2

– 1 tomato, cut into quarters

1/ 4

red or yellow pepper, chopped

Or a mix of any veg you have that needs to be used up – leftover greens, carrots, cooked potatoes, etc.

1/ 2

tsp smoked paprika

CA THERIN E’S BREA KFA ST HA SH Serves one, using a small frying pan

L arge pinch of dried thyme

“This is my favourite breakfast ever! It’s also a brilliant way to get more vegetables into your diet.

With the combination of protein and fat from the eggs alongside carbohydrates and fibre from the vegetables, this will keep your blood sugar balanced too. Balancing your blood sugar supports weight loss and helps steady your mood and manage your stress better.”

L arge pinch of salt

2 eggs

M ETHOD “Over a low heat, add the oil to the pan along with the onions and cook gently, stirring.

When the onions start to soften a bit, add the mushrooms and green veg, tomatoes, peppers and/or any other veg you are using. Add the garlic here too.

Stir and cook on a low heat so it doesn’t burn, and cover with a lid for a few minutes so the veg can soften.

Then add the salt, smoked paprika and thyme, and stir. Put the lid back on for about five minutes.

Once the vegetables are cooked, make a well in the middle of them so you can see the bottom of the pan, and crack the eggs in. Put the lid back on and cook on low for a few minutes or until the egg whites are set and the yolks are still runny.

As the pan gets very hot, you might want to turn the heat off just before the eggs have finished cooking. L eave the lid on and they will cook in the heat – otherwise it’s easy to overcook them!

I eat this straight from the pan!”

Local home owners… throw open their doors Child free zones?… meet the couple with the Parent Pod! Is grey just so last year?… Jojo Humes Brown on colours

YOUR BRAND NEW FREE HOMES & LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

l For more recipe ideas and health tips, go to www.catherinearnoldnutrition.com

“With the combination of protein and fat from the eggs alongside carbohydrates and fi bre from the vegetables, this will keep your blood sugar balanced”

SUFFOLK BUSINESSES!

Want to advertise for free, yes FREE, to our growing online readership?

For the whole of March, we are offering companies in the region a helping hand during these trying times with free adverts and editorial on our much-read, content-driven website: www.livinginsuffolk.com Send in your stories and hi res photos or company logo to: info@livinginsuffolk.com

DO YOU LOVE THISE? MAGAZIN

Perhaps your company would benefit from a vibrant new brochure or publication designed by the creative team here at L iving In ?

With a wealth of experience in publishing behind us award-winning national and regional publications we also offer the following services: Website refresh includes content and redesign Press releases sparkling copy that gets you noticed Corporate blogs and newsletters to boost your business For more information call us on 07930 184773 or email: info@livinginsuffolk.com

IN TERIOR

LIVES ...

Homely inspiration from around the coastal region …

DOOR TO DOOR …

Inventor Alexander G raham Bell once famously said: “When one door closes another door opens.” And this couldn’t be truer for Trimley resident Caroline Brampton, who recently upgraded her bedroom doors for these timber beauties (below), finished in Farrow & Ball’s elegant Middleton Pink. Designed and crafted by those talented people at the Burgess G roup, Caroline tells us she was delighted with the curved feature they cleverly added to the top of the doors. “It’s made the whole room look bigger. It’s beautifully framed the view outside. It makes me smile every morning.” l To look at the full range of windows and doors the company has to offer, go to www.burgess- group.com

THE L- SHA PED ROOM One thing we have all learnt during the last year is the importance of space in our homes. Indeed, the construction industry is currently booming with people queuing up to have their properties extended. Which is why we love this spectacular L -shaped, open plan kitchen/diner/living room that positively ooz es space.

In fact, the G ables in Tuddenham St Martin boasts some 3,576 sq ft of it.

New to the market, this lovely detached property offers five bedrooms, three bath/shower rooms, two studies and much more internal space.

With sheltered south-facing gardens, a tennis court and swimming pool, we’d be more than happy to isolate ourselves here!

James Squirrell, of Jackson-Stops, which is marketing the property, says: “The G ables is all about the location: positioned on the edge of Tuddenham village, standing in two acres with a pool and court, and benefitting from direct access into the Fynn V alley, yet only four miles from Ipswich station. It offers the best of both, for those seeking the country pad, yet not wanting to forego the conveniences of town.” l For more details on the property, call the team at Jackson- Stops on 0 14 73 218 218

N EW IN A T VA N IL! Pappelina, a long time favourite of superb Scandi interiors shop V anil, has some striking new designs in its spring/summer collection of rugs. Inspired by haz y beach walks and golden sunsets, V era (pictured) is one of their best sellers. V anil’s Mandy L eeson says: “These rugs are practical, machine washable and perfect for indoors and outdoors.”

E ven though her Woodbridge shop, in Church Street, is closed, Mandy tells us they are working hard behind the scenes adding in new collections for when the doors reopen.

“The Woodbridge and Suffolk community have been a huge support, thank you,” she adds. l Go to www.vanil.co.uk

l Got a lovely room/ project or product you’d like us to feature?

Write to us at: info@livinginsuffolk.com

Add a new dimension to your home with our beautiful windows & doors

Notcutts Garden Centre Ipswich Road Woodbridge Suffolk IP12 4AF

8 Fornham Business Court Hall Farm, Bury Drift Fornham St Martin Suffolk IP31 1SL

Tel. 01394 386666

Tel. 01284 760222

burgess-group.com

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A spacious 4≠ bedroom detached house in a highly sought≠ after area.

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e £275,000

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SALE AGREED. A traditional timber≠ framed former farmhouse in a rural location sitting in grounds of 0.5 of an acre. The property is in need of general modernisation, but offers spacious family accommodation with 5 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, kitchen/breakfast room and sitting room. Many period features including exposed beams and brick fi replaces. EPC: F

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Do you have a large garden thatí s getting too much, or a piece of land that you think you might get planning on? Before you spend money to fi nd out, contact Linda Mortimer MNAEA for free and confi dential advice on 01394 386688.

An immaculate 2≠ bedroom period cottage in the centre of town. Ent hall, bathroom, kitchen, sitting room with red brick fir eplace, 2 bedrooms and power≠ connected outside studio.

Stable door leads out to private rear garden. EPC: E

Ha ks e t o n Gui d e Pri c e £395,000

A well≠ presented 3≠ bedroom cottage offering good sized family accommodation. Kitchen/breakfast room (all appliances are Neff), cloakroom, bathroom and en≠ suite.

Gardens and superb views over mature farmland. EPC: E

le d ed Sa ee uir r q ag re e or

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A charming 3≠ bedroom cottage in popular and historic Seckford Street.

Ent hall, kitchen, sitting/dining room, 3 beds and bathroom, courtyard garden. EPC: C

F r a mlingha Guide

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m Ne w Bui l d e £330,000

A superb 2≠ bedroom detached bungalow in a private cul≠ de≠ sac of new bungalows. Gas central heating, oak doors, UPVC windows, detached garage and gardens. EPC: B

Wo o d b ri d g e Gui d e Pri c e £625,000

SALE AGREED. More town centre period properties wanted from £300,000 to £700,000. Contact the Mortimers team today ñ details below.

Buyers waiting.

Wo o d b ri d g e Gui d e Pri c e £38 5,000

A well≠ presented 3≠ bedroom mid≠ terrace property in a highly sought≠ after area close to Kingston Playing Field and town centre. Garage and garden. EPC: D

FREE VALUATIONS! CALL: 01394 386688 EMAIL: INFO@MORTIMERSESTATEAGENTS.CO.UK

Linda Mortimer MNAEA

Dale Mortimer MNAEA, DipDEA

Thomas Mortimer

Pat Masson

Rosemary Barnard

F REE V IRTU AL TOU RS IF Y OU INSTRU CT U S TO SELL Y OU R HOME B EF ORE MAY 02 21 .

Ther e i s no t i e i n p e ri do i n our a g r e e m e n t . Q ua l i fi e d a n d l i c e n s e d f a m i l y b u s i n e s s .

Abi Coomber