Places & Faces 107 February 2019

OUT&ABOUT | FOOD&DRINK | BUY&TRY | HOUSE&HOME | LIFE&LIVING

Helengeli Island

WIN A SIGNED C OPY OF

The Burning Juniper Slaidof e

Spotl ight on

King’s Lynn

Maldives

5 UP FOR G RABS

pages of

Out&About

12

BEST-SELLING AUTHOR

Johanna

WHAT’S ON

Valentine’s

ESSENTIALS

HANDLEY

ISSUE No 107

FREE

February

2019

Norfolk & Suffolk

w w w.p l a c e s a n d fa c e s.c o.u k

Norwich

Colchester

Ipswich

Sprowston Park, NR7 9AZ  01603 294 686

Tollgate Centre Park, CO3 8RG  01206 585 121

Ransomes Euro Park, IP3 9SN  01473 353 105

Kitchen price is for kitchen units, cook’s table, range cooker & extractor, quartz & solid oak worktops, sink, tap and handles.

Price checked on 21/12/2018 Interest f ree credit provided subject to application and status. Minimum spend – £5,000 for f ive years (Inf inity Plus kitchens only). Total kitchen price £11,739.49, 10% deposit of £1173.95 and then 60 monthly payments of £176.09 at 0% APR. Total amount payable £11,739.49. Interest f ree credit is available on all kitchen projects and Wren Installation services.

Full details are available at wrenkitchens.com/f inance

All-New

The feel of the drive

6.2% APR Representative, £1,000 Honda Deposit Contribution* and 5 Years servicing for £599 Representative Example CR-V 1.5 VTEC Turbo EX AWD Manual

OTR

Deposit

£35,305.00 £9,652.66

Honda Deposit Contribution

Amount of Credit

£1,000.00

£24,652.34

36 Monthly Payments of

Final Payment

Final Payment inc Option Fee

Total Amount Payable

APR

Option to Purchase Fee

Annual Contracted Mileage

Excess Mileage Charge

Interest Rate pa fixed

£17,072.50

£17,082.50

£38,909.16

6.2%

£10.00

10,000

10p

6.05%

(Duration 37 Months)

£319.00

CROWN GARAGE HONDA

Honda House, Scania Way, King’s Lynn, Norfolk PE30 4LP Call 01553 762984 or search Crown Garage Honda King’s Lynn

Fuel consumption figures for the 2019 CR-V 1.5 VTEC Turbo EX AWD Manual mpg (l/100km): Urban 37.2mpg (7.6L/100km), Extra Urban 47.1mpg (6.0L/100km), Combined 42.8mpg (6.6L/100km). CO2 emissions: 151g/km. Fuel consumption figures sourced from official EUregulated laboratory test results, are provided for comparison purposes and may not reflect real-life driving experience.

Model Shown: 2019 CR-V 1.5 VTEC Turbo EX AWD Manual in Premium crystal red metallic at £35,305 On The Road (OTR). Terms and Conditions: 19YM retail CR-V 1.5 VTEC Turbo ordered from 01 September 2018 to 31 December 2018 and registered by 31 December 2018. Subject to model and colour availability. Offers applicable at participating dealers (excluding Channel Islands) and are at the promoter’s absolute discretion. Not to be used along with any other offers currently available. *Honda deposit contribution: £1,000 Honda deposit contribution on 2019 CR-V models purchased through Honda Aspirations. 6.2% APR representative Honda Aspirations (PCP): Maximum customer deposit 30%. You do not have to pay the Final Payment if you return the car at the end of the agreement and you have paid all other amounts due, the vehicle is in good condition and has been serviced in accordance with the Honda service book and the maximum annual mileage has not been exceeded. Excess mileage charge includes VAT at current rate. Indemnities may be required in certain circumstances. Finance is only available to persons aged 18 or over, subject to status. All figures are correct at time of publication but may be subject to change. Honda Franchise Dealers are credit brokers, not lenders. Credit provided by Honda Finance Europe Plc. Cain Road, Bracknell, Berkshire RG12 1HL. Honda Financial Services is a trading name of Honda Finance Europe Plc. Cain Road, Bracknell, Berkshire RG12 1HL a company registered at Companies House No 03289418. Honda Finance Europe plc is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority, Financial Services Register number 312541. 5 Years £599 Servicing: Please visit https://www.honda.co.uk/cars/campaigns/599-servicing.html

GO TO PAG E

WIN 45

A SIGNED C OPY OF

The Burning Juniper Slaidof e

WELCOME

TO FEBRUARY’S PLACES&FACES® ROMANCE is certainly in the air this month and we always maintain that you shouldn’t just keep the art of amore for Valentine’s Day! We have included a few ideas to whet your appetite for this special time of year, including where to dine, what to wear and what to buy.

Whether you stay in or go out on the town after you have finished your romantic meals Places&Faces has checked out plenty of entertainment in (and out) of the area ranging from music to mud and everything in between.

To please the book worms among you we have some more great reads this month, including a catch up with the fantastic author of the month Johanna Handley. Best-selling Johanna answers a few of our questions and We can personally recommend her book ‘The burning of Juniper Slaide’, is our current read which we just can’t put down...

Not to mention we have five signed copies to give away in another of our fantastic competitions on page 45.

Follow us on Twitter

What’s so good about celeriac?

Well we are glad you asked as we have two top notch recipes using this often forgotten about nutritional ingredient. Now that ‘Dry January’ is out of the way we have also looked after your next cocktail evening with the extremely moreish ‘Benedict’s Scofflaw’.

The travel section this month is fit to burst with eleven destinations! Seven staycations and four overseas. My personal favourite is most definitely Helengeli Island in the Maldives, beautiful beaches in a relaxed luxury paradise.

Top all of this off with a look at interior trends from millennial pink to fabulous fabrics, a nod to our furry friends and a way to relax with a shiatsu massage. So we think you will agree that although we are in the shortest month of the year you have plenty to get your teeth into in this month’s Places&Faces. Have a great read of our packed magazine, a great romantic month and remember... don’t forget the flowers!!

@PlacesandFaces

www.placesandfaces.co.uk

CONTRIBUTORS Benet Catty, Carl Lamb, Hayley Philpott, Ian Clarke, Jennifer Dwyer, John Bultitude, Judy Foster, Julie Handforth Doidge, Katja Bainbridge, Kayla Dunne, Melanie Cook, Nick Mobbs, Pete Goodrum, Peter Clarke, Richard Bainbridge, Scott Birch DIRECTOR OF PUBLISHING Joe Marritt E: joe.marritt@micropress.co.uk PUBLISHER Colin Huggins E: colin@H2creativemedia.co.uk FASHION & BEAUTY EDITOR Donna Titcombe E: Donna@H2creativemedia.co.uk

Published by H2CREATIVE MEDIA

Fountain Way, Reydon Business Park, Reydon, Suffolk IP18 6DH 01502 725800 COMPETITION - TERMS AND CONDITIONS

ADVERTISING SALES Rob Fosbrook T: 01502 725876 M: 07780 430706 E: rob@H2creativemedia.co.uk

DESIGN AND PRODUCTION Andrew Hirst T: 01502 725860 E: andrew@H2creativemedia.co.uk

Mark Shreeve T: 01502 725839 E: mark.shreeve@micropress.co.uk

Samantha Garstang E: samantha@H2creativemedia.co.uk T: 01502 725878

Jade Soanes T: 01502 725840 E: jade.soanes@micropress.co.uk

Simon Tooth T: 01502 725838 E: simontooth@micropress.co.uk

SUBSCRIBE 12 ISSUES FOR £36 Printed by MICROPRESS PRINTER LTD

Fountain Way, Reydon Business Park, Reydon, Suffolk IP18 6DH 01502 725800

Call 01502 725800 or visit: placesandfaces.co.uk

TERMS & CONDITIONS Copyright on all content is with H2Creative Media. Reproduction in part or whole is forbidden without the express permission of the publishers. All prices, events and times were correct at the time of print, and you are encouraged to contact the businesses and venues prior to making bookings. All expressions and opinions demonstrated within the publication, are those of the Publisher including contributors. Places&Faces® is a registered Trade Mark of H2Creative Media.

H2CREATIVE MEDIA IS A TRADING NAME OF MICROPRESS PRINTERS LTD.

The competition is open to residents of the United Kingdom aged 18 years or over except employees of Micropress Printers Ltd and their close relatives and anyone otherwise connected with the organisation or judging of the competition. There is no entry fee and no purchase necessary to enter this competition. Only one entry will be accepted per person. No responsibility can be accepted for entries not received for whatever reason. The prize is as stated and no cash or other alternatives will be offered. The prizes are not transferable. Prizes are subject to availability and we reserve the right to substitute any prize with another of equivalent value without giving notice. Winners will be chosen at random, from all entries received. The winner will be notified by email. If the winner cannot be contacted or does not claim the prize within 1 month of notification, we reserve the right to withdraw the prize from the winner. Any personal data relating to the winner or any other entrants will be used solely in accordance with current UK data protection legislation and will not be disclosed to a third party without the entrant’s prior consent. Entry into the competition will be deemed as acceptance of these terms and conditions.

80

17

CONTENTS

32

86

60 71 OUT&ABOUT 11 20 26 29

Where to go & what to see Spotlight on: King’s Lynn Mel Cook: Visit Norwich Kayla Dunn: Visit North Norfolk

FOOD&DRINK 31 32

34

Photo: HELEN MAYBANKS

38 40

Benidict’s Scofflaw Romantic Valentine’s restaurants Richard Bainbridge: Celeriac risotto Imperial Hotel Tyler Torrence: Boarding House, Halesworth

BUY&TRY 43 44 45 47 51 53 55 57 59 62

Smart Watch?

Recommended reads Johanna Handley Wedding venues Valentine’s gifts for her Valentine’s gifts for him Ladies Fashion Beauty: Feel fabulous New cars Gooch

HOUSE&HOME 65 66 69 71 72

Mixing it up Jarrold interiors JHD Interior Design Tips Caring for your pets Property

LIFE&LIVING 75 77 78 80 85 86 97

Relaxing Shiatsu Spire Hospital Staycations The beauty of Bath Travel Time Helengeli Island, Maldives Wealth Management

OVER&OUT 98

Five minutes with...

Caroline or Change page 18

e x p e rt E Y E ca r e In addition to a wide range of designer and classic frames, we oer an extensive range of eye care services and treatments to help improve your vision.

We now oer a complete Earcare service as well.

Advanced eye examination, incl. OCT Scan Private eye examination, incl. Retinal photography Free Contact Lens Trial Contact Lens Care Plan Dry Eye services Colorimetry services Quiet Clinic Sports eyewear NHS testing NEW Earcare service now available

cecilamey.co.uk

since 1924

NEW Ask us about

HEARING CARE

C ECI L A MEY

Looking Good!

&

Out About KAISER CHIEFS

It’s fair to say that Leeds indie outfit Kaiser Chiefs were at their energetic, rowdy best some 15 years ago (I Predict A Riot and Everyday I Love You Less and Less both hit the charts in 2004). But that doesn’t stop the band embarking on a sell-out tour of the UK, including this date in Norwich, as one of our favourite guilty pleasures. Expect guaranteed wedding dancefloor fillers, cheeky asides from enigmatic frontman Ricky Wilson and some approaching middle age moshing.

10 February, The LCR, Norwich, 7pm, sold out. Tel: 01603 508050

& 11

BACK TO THE EIGHTIES Remember Joe McElderry? He won

series six of The X Factor back in 2009, when people were still interested in making the reality show winners number one. Much has changed since then, but the good news is that the charming McElderry is still singing, and he brings a serious shot of Eighties nostalgia to Norwich Theatre Royal with the musical Club Tropicana.

In fact, McElderry tells Michael De Burca he ‘just can’t get enough’ of the show’s setting (even though he wasn’t even born).

It might be 10 years since Joe McElderry, then a fresh faced 18-year-old, took X Factor and the nation by storm with his chart-topping rendition of The Climb, but the enthusiasm, passion and energy that endeared him to millions of viewers in 2009 remains undiminished.

In Club Tropicana, the new Eighties musical in which he stars, he portrays Garry, a club rep with an eye for the outrageous and a killer line in barbed one-liners.

“He’s camp, he’s witty, very flamboyant and quite sassy,” laughs the 27-year-old from

South Shields. “I’ve never played a comedy role before but it’s been really fun. At first I was really nervous but I’m excited by it now.

There are no rules with Garry. He’s probably me after four or five vodkas.”

Club Tropicana The Musical takes audiences on a trip back to the electric Eighties for a summer of love and smashhit classics to a time when hair was big, shoulders were padded, and mobiles weighed a tonne. Set to a soundtrack of some of the most iconic, chart-topping hits of the decade, the story unfolds in the vibrant Club Tropicana Hotel, the decades’ answer to Love Island.

McElderry is joined by a cast including ex-EastEnder Neil McDermott, top impressionist Kate Robbins and former Sugababe Amelle Berrabah, making her musical theatre debut.

“Club Tropicana has a great story line,” says McElderry. “It’s a great fun, familyfriendly show that you can come along to and sing-a-long to. It’s feel-good and I’ve realised that 80’s music is still massively relevant...

and that I know most of the songs.”

This show is just the latest in a long line of projects to have kept the singer busy in the decade since winning X Factor. His musical theatre career took off in 2015 when he was cast in the title role of the Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice musical Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat.

“That was a challenge because I was stepping into an iconic role that lots of very famous people have become very loved for playing. I’d seen them and grew up with them playing Joseph so I realised the weight of the role I was taking on. I didn’t want to be the worst person to play it.”

He has not left the music business behind though as he is writing a new album of original songs to celebrate a decade in showbusiness. “I’ll definitely be doing something on stage to acknowledge 10 years but first I’ve got this show which takes me up to September,” he says.

25 Feb to 2 Mar, Norwich Theatre Royal, time and prices vary.

Tel: 01603 630000

LIGHTS, CAMERA, ACTION! Here’s a great opportunity for budding filmmakers to move beyond the point-andshoot dross of social media and learn a genuine artform from industry professionals.

In the same way that social media and the internet have made everyone a writer or photographer, some would be forgiven for thinking that just because they have a YouTube account then they are the next Alfred Hitchcock or Ridley Scott. Time to think again. Over half term, The BFI Film Academy aims to train and inspire the next generation of UK filmmakers.

The BFI Film Academy offers training for every film industry role, from writing and directing through to production, sound 12

design, editing and camera, and provides learning around film history and cinematic storytelling to inspire an appreciation of film culture in the round.

The course will be held at The Media Suite at the University of East Anglia and will take a hands-on approach through a combination of workshops and practical skills development.

Finally, after an action-packed week, the cast and crew, friends and family are invited to enjoy a premiere of the completed films.

Places are limited for this practical film challenge working with award-winning industry professionals. Can you make the cut?

16-22 Feb, UEA, £25. Tel: 0203 070 2526

Out&About

SIR RANULPH FIENNES The world’s greatest living explorer, Sir Ranulph Fiennes has a habit of putting himself in a pickle, spending his life in pursuit of extreme adventure, risking life and limb in the process. In this Living Dangerously audience, Sir Ranulph offers a personal journey through his life, from his early years to the present day. Both light-hearted and strikingly poignant, Living Dangerously spans Sir Ranulph’s childhood and school antics, his army life and early expeditions, right through the Transglobe Expedition to his current Global Reach Challenge - his goal to become the first person in the world to cross both polar ice caps and climb the highest mountain on each of the seven continents. A fascinating insight into a remarkable individual.

19 Feb, Norwich Theatre Royal, 7:30pm, £28.50.

Tel: 01603 630000

NATHAN CARTER Carter is hot property on the Irish music scene,

performing with his band to over 400,000 people in the past year, and is fast becoming a big name all over the UK with his performances that include the hit song Wagon Wheel. Nathan and his six-man band perform a wide variety of country, Irish, pop and ballads.

8 and 9 Feb, Princess Theatre, Hunstanton, 7:30pm, £38.50.

Tel: 01485 532252

CHEERS FOR THE BEERS RICHARD ALSTON DANCE COMPANY Anyone with even the slightest interest in dance will be

thrilled to see the acclaimed Richard Alston Dance Company visiting the region once again, and also a chance to hear from the man himself.

The evening centres around exciting World Premieres by Richard Alston and associate choreographer Martin Lawrance in an exciting triple bill.

In Alston’s newest work, Brahms Hungarian Dances, his dancers swoon with gypsy abandon, borne along by Johannes Brahms’s hugely popular music that inspired the dance. In contrast is the cool and serene Proverb, danced to music by Steve Reich.

Alston has specially revived Proverb for the first time since it was created as a seventieth birthday present for Reich in 2006. Detour, Lwarance’s new work set to Michael Gordon’s Timber, completes the programme.

These outstanding dances showcase Alston’s half century of creativity. From his earliest existing solo of 1970 to more recent works, these extracts beautifully demonstrate the development of an extraordinary talent, performed by one of the world’s finest dance ensembles.

There will be a pre-performance talk by Richard Alston in the auditorium on 23 February.

22-23 Feb, Norwich Theatre Royal, 7:30pm, £10-£23.50.

Tel: 01603 630000

Had a dry January? Unlucky in love this Valentine’s Day? Celebrating/lamenting Brexit? Whatever your reason, there’s no better place to grab an ale or three than Norwich this month, as it’s the last chance to catch the Great British Beer Festival in the city as it comes to the end of its run in the city. As well as a bewildering array of ales, beers and ciders, you can also expect live music, entertaining events and suitable snacking. Note: although the festival lasts for five days, attendance throughout is not compulsory, or encouraged for that matter.

Join the fun and taste your way around some local heroes as well as new-found favourites from across the UK and beyond, plus discover who will be crowned Champion Winter Beer of Britain.

19-23 Feb. The Halls, Norwich, times vary, £3-£15, free for CAMRA members

TAKE STOCK

It’s tribute to the diversity of the region that we have the chance to include contemporary dance alongside a beer festival and stock car racing. This is a cracking bit of timing from Great Yarmouth Stadium who have clearly identified the demand for a post-Valentine’s night out with a different, with not a red rose in sight. If you’ve never been stock car racing and wonder what a stock car is, it’s essentially any old banger that the drivers are happy to barge around the track. It makes for exciting racing far from the sanitised snooze-fest that is Formula 1.

The stadium hosts regular events during the summer but this is an early foray which should be made even more interesting bearing in mind the weather (there is covered grandstand seating). Drag yourself off the sofa for a truly sensory experience, and partake of the bar and diner, too.

17 Feb, Great Yarmouth Stadium, 5:30pm, £16, £12 concs, £7 child, under 5s free. Tel: 01493 720343 13

OPEN MONDAYSATURDAY 9-5PM SUNDAY 10.30-5PM BANK HOLIDAYS 9-5PM

FULLY BESPOKE HANDMADE KITCHENS, BEDROOMS, OFFICES, BATHROOMS & FREE STANDING FURNITURE

Suppliers and installers of granite, quartz and solid timber worktops FROM DESIGN TO INSTALLATION

Earsham Hall, Earsham, Bungay, Suffolk, NR35 2AN · Tel 01986 893420 · Mobile 07876 395197 info@earshamhallkitchensandinteriors.co.uk · www.earshamhallkitchensandinteriors.co.uk

Out&About

PLAIN FUNNY As Jimeoin embarks on Result!, his latest UK and Irish tour, he explains to Mark Wareham why keeping it loose and unstructured on stage works best, and why there’s nothing wrong with a good oldfashioned fart gag. No message, no Brexit, no Trump. And, by the end of the show, you’ll have had a great night out and be none the wiser.

The twinkly-eyed Northern Irishman emigrated to Australia 30 years ago and fell into comedy shortly afterwards when, on the spur of the moment, a mate put his name down for an open mic spot in the pub and he thought, ‘Why not?’. One minute he was playing pool, the next he was up on stage, never having seen a live comedy show in his life, let alone performed. And he took to it like a natural, unplanned and unrehearsed, cracking gags off the cuff. And it’s been pretty much that way ever since.

Jimeoin is decidedly old-school in his approach to comedy. Particularly at the Edinburgh Fringe, where he recently celebrated his 25th year, he seems like the traditional jester wandering amid a sea of angry young comics.

“The opposite of being slick is my angle,” he explains. “To look vulnerable and idiotic as opposed to snarling and spitting and full of confidence, which grates with me.

If it annoys you in a social environment when you see that sort of behaviour, then it’s annoying when you see it up on stage. I guess people want to see someone ruling it.

Like a rock star striking a pose. But it’s not what I do.”

At the start of his new show, he deals with current affairs in one fell swoop.

“Trump’s a bit of an idiot and Brexit’s a bad idea.” That done, he can get on with the main business in hand… having a laugh.

“Sometimes I see a show that does really well in Edinburgh, a political show with a

MIKE AND THE MECHANICS Here’s how the story goes: successful

message, and you think, that’s not going to translate to Southampton. They just want a good night out. So that’s what I give them.

Not everything has to have a narrative.”

The randomness of a Jimeoin show is a huge part of his appeal. Dancing, impressions, visual gags, one liners, non sequiturs, stories, songs. In a word, variety. All of comedy is here, all seemingly conjured out of the ether.

The visual gags are a particular Jimeoin hallmark. With the most expressive of faces and his trademark dancing eyebrows, at times he looks like a borderline gurner.

Catch this unashamedly funny act with sharp observational humour alongside visual antics at The Apex.

Genesis guitarist Mike Rutherford forms band as a side project, working with talented songwriters and musicians, and enjoys so much success that he’s still at it some 34 years later.

What began as a creative outlet for Mike became an ongoing journey for him and the ever-changing roster of mechanics. So what can audiences expect from this latest incarnation aside from those radio-friendly greatest hits (including The Living Years, All I Need Is A Miracle and Over My Shoulder)?

Well, Mike has worked with some of the best session musicians as Mechanics over the years, and vocalist Andrew Roachford (who joined a decade ago and had a hit in 1988 with Cuddly Toy) adds a distinctly R&B vibe. The band also released its eighth studio album – Let Me Fly – in 2017 so expect a tight set of familiar and newish songs from masters of the musical arts.

17 Feb, The Apex, Bury St Edmunds, 7:30pm, £17.50. Tel: 01284 758000

20 Feb, Norwich Theatre Royal, 7:30pm, £10-£41. Tel: 01603 630000

SARAH DARLING

Book NOW

songwriter Sarah Darling has been touring a string of dates throughout the UK and will return to Norwich this February.

The tour is supporting her upcoming 5th studio album ‘Wonderland’ (released March 1st 2019). Speaking about performing in her home-awayfrom-home, Sarah said, “I’m so excited to be returning to the UK to share my new music. Doubly excited since many of the tracks on ‘Wonderland’ are “made in the UK” with UK co-writers and producers! Britain has a special place in my heart, and the audiences have always been so warm and welcoming.”

Sarah describes ‘Wonderland’ as a transformative time in her life, one that has allowed her to experiment in new sonic territories. “The whole concept of my ‘Wonderland’ album was to explore a brand new world artistically. Because of my connection to the UK, I thought ‘what better place to bring my Nashville roots to be creative’. I think it’s good as an artist to stretch the boundaries, because you are always growing and that’s how you find new magic and move forward to wonderful, new places.”

14 March, Arts Centre, Norwich, www.sarahdarling.com

Photo: SARA KAUSS

Following the release of her new single ‘Call Me’, country singer-

15

VALENTINES AT w w w.

b r a d l e y h a t c h. c o m

bradley

hatch jewellers

Committed to Quality and Service IN THE HEART OF WROXHAM

ENGAGEMENT

Choosing an engagement ring for your loved one is a magical experience. From the everlasting love symbolised by the traditional diamond rings, to something less traditional, we’ll work with you asking all the important questions to find the perfect ring for you, leaving you to pop the question.

WISH IT. . .

ETERNITY

The eternity ring is a symbol of everlasting love and devotion, making for a truly romantic gesture.

Its circular shape consisting of one unbroken band signifies lasting love and commitment, making it the prefect gift to celebrate relationship milestones, making her fall in love all over again.

DREAM IT . . .

20% OFF THROUGHOUT THE STORE*

WEDDING

At Bradley Hatch, we offer an oustanding collection of wedding bands available in 9ct, 18ct and 22ct yellow, white and rose gold. We also range platinum, palladium and titanium, meaning we have a ring for every taste and lifestyle imaginable.

You can also design your own using our offer a bespoke design service.

DO IT . . .

1ST FEBRUARY 2019 UNTIL VALENTINES DAY

*Selected lines only. Offer cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer, promotion or finance option.

Offer ends 14th February 2019 at 5pm

TUNSTEAD ROAD WROXHAM NORWICH NR12 8QG SALES@BRADLEYHATCH.COM 01603 782233 www.BRADLEYHATCH.COM

Out&About

LIFE OF CRIME You’ve got to do something pretty

serious these days to get 20 years, but the Fun Lovin’ Criminals have that under their belts, as new album Another Mimosa will testify. A follow up to the previous Mimosa compilation, this album features reworkings of some of their favourite tracks.

Although from New York City, the FLC have always been bigger in Europe – their pseudo gangsta swagger and laidback beats finding favour in the late 1990s. Scooby Snacks was their breakthrough single and a firm fan favourite to this day, while their biggest UK hit is the sleazy-listening Loco (a top 5 single in 2001).

These days, it’s not the original threepiece, but Huey Morgan still leads from the front with his meandering loungecore sound. In fact, there’s a high probability that even if you’re not a FLC fan, you’ve probably still heard Huey’s silky smooth drawl, as a regular presenter on BBC Radio 2 and 6 Music.

Musically, it’s a heady and entertaining mix of rock, hip-hop, jazz and pop culture samples. Go on, have yourself another mimosa – it’d be wrong not to.

9 Feb, The LCR, 6:30pm, £25.

Tel: 01603 508050

CAUSE A SPLASH Move aside pooh sticks, cheese rolling and shin kicking – there’s a new silliness sheriff in town. Treat yourself, and your family during half term, at the East Anglian Puddle Jumping Championships at WWT Welney Wetland Centre. To be fair, if anyone is going to host a competition involving puddles, a wetland should have a distinct advantage.

There are daily prizes for the biggest and craziest splashes, as judged by the ‘splashometer’.

You can even practice your technique in the warm-up areas and discover a whole host of splash activities. At last, a genuine outdoor activity that the weather really can’t spoil in February. If the killjoys insist on it being a child-only event, fear not – adults can find their own boggy ground to stomp around on while wandering the 1,000-acre site, go swan feeding or even get up before the crack of dawn (literally) to join the wardens to view the sight of thousands of migrating swans taking off as they wake from their slumbers.

Puddle Jumping Championships, 16-24 Feb, other events on selected days, WWT Welney Wetland Centre. Tel: 01353 860711

SHOW OF HANDS Steve Knightley, songwriter and frontman of award-winning English acoustic roots outfit Show of Hands, brings his 2019 solo tour to Southwold.

As a long-serving troubadour of the folk and acoustic music scene, master songwriter and storyteller Steve has spent much of his life on the road, collecting songs, stories, anecdotes and observations – with the odd disaster along the way.

He once again takes to England’s highways and byways to present ‘Roadworks’ – a show which builds on the success of his sell-out 2018 solo tour Songs and Stories. This is a stripped-back, one-man show that’s infused with wit, warmth and alchemy, beautifully illustrated by his trenchant songs of history, love and conscience. And anyone who’s ever wondered what it’s like to be a touring musician will love this rare insight into life on the road.

Best known for his work with Show of Hands, Steve’s impressive back catalogue of songs are modern classics, still filling the folk clubs and festival fields, and forever influencing the next generation of folk artists. “A life on the road certainly has its challenges, but I can’t say I’d do it differently if I had to start all over again,” he says. “The format of Songs and Stories, and now Roadworks allows me to share the stories I’ve collected over the years, along with plenty of observations along the way. It’s just me, a radio mic and a couple of guitars which is daunting and liberating in equal measures, and it’s enabled me to build elements into my shows which I’ve never been able to before.”

16 Feb, Southwold Arts Centre, 7:30pm, £18. Tel: 01502 722572 17

Out&About

NOTHING EVER HAPPENS

Book NOW

PATROLLING LATITUDE Snow Patrol are continuing their

‘Wildness’ tour, promoting their first album in eight years, with one more date in the UK before continuing across Europe.

Missed this... catch their iconic sound as one of the headline acts, also including George Ezra and Lana Del Rey, at this year’s Latitude festival in July. The family friendly festival is now in its 14th year and one of the biggest events in the area’s entertainment calendar.

2 Feb SSE ARENA WEMBLEY 18 - 21 July, Henham Park www.latitudefestival.com

ONE-WOMAN SNOW A Hundred Words for Snow is a onewoman show written by Tatty Hennessy and directed by Lucy Jane Atkinson, with Gemma Barnett as Rory. The story is an epic journey through grief, adolescence and across the Arctic – as it follows Rory on her mission to get the ashes of her Arctic enthusiast dad to the North Pole. Polar explorer and author Felicity Aston MBE acted as a consultant in this refreshingly different take on coming of age.

19 Feb, Jubilee Hall, Aldeburgh and 26 Feb, The Garage, Norwich, 7:30pm, £12.

Tel: 01728 454884 or 01603 598 646 18

Photo: HELEN MAYBANKS

UNDERGROUND IN LOUISIANA

OUTonf Tow Our resident West End critic Benet Catty reviews Caroline or Change which is performing at The Playhouse Theatre, Covent Garden.

Caroline or Change won all the British

best musical awards in 2006 when it premiered at the National Theatre. I hated it. I found it limp and lifeless in George C Wolfe’s ugly staging. So seeing this new production in the West End (originally produced at Chichester) filled me with trepidation. What a difference a production makes.

As staged by Michael Longhurst (soon to be the Artistic Director of the Donmar Warehouse) Caroline or Change is revealed as the gleaming jewel which I couldn’t see 12 years ago. Subtle, honest, touching and impassioned, it has the feeling of a play which happens to have been written with music and lyrics. It is a sophisticated piece, unlikely to be the top choice for a big night out. But it repays the effort vastly better than other more crowd-pleasing shows which offer so much less at such higher volume.

Caroline – in a career-best performance from Sharon D Clark – is a show about no change. “Nothing ever happens underground in Louisiana” is the piece’s first unaccompanied line. She is a servant to a well-to-do Jewish family in 1963, and spends her working day in the basement with various laundry appliances. With nothing else to animate her life, her mind animates the appliances: the radio, the washing machine, and even the tumble dryer sing to her. It’s funny and quirky but, as staged by Longhurst and performed by Me’esha Bryan, Dujonna Clift-Sims and Ako Mitchell, it gives a tuneful and touching sense of a character worn down by circumstance and needing something different that she knows will never come.

She forms a relationship with the young boy of the house Noah (Aaron Geikoff, in the best performance I’ve seen by a child performer in a musical since the early days of Billy Elliot). His stepmother Rose, played beautifully by Lauren Ward (the original Miss Honey in Matilda), wants to help Caroline without denting her pride and so offers that she keeps any loose change that Noah leaves in his trousers, as a way of teaching him to be careful with money. The loose change of the plot represents the bigger change in Noah’s

life, as he approaches his bar mitzvah, and the wider change in the country with the imminent assassination of John F Kennedy and, only a few years later, the Civil Rights Act. The book and lyrics are by Tony Kushner, the deified multi-award winning author of Angels in America, whose libretto has been set to an extraordinary mixture of appropriately period music by Jeanine Tesori, most famous for Shrek and Fun Home (recently seen in London). Through-composed in a striking assortment of melodies and rhythmic recitative, the music is essential to the setting of the mood and moment without ever distracting from the primacy of the words and characters. There are no “let’s pause for a song here” moments. But when the score delivers, such as with the climactic “Lot’s Wife”, a meltdown number Caroline delivers in church, it dazzles.

In a West End teeming with strong ensemble casts at the moment, Caroline or Change has some of the best singing in London. Abiona Omonua is thrilling as Caroline’s daughter and Alastair Brookshaw is touching as Noah’s father, a musician still grieving for his son’s mother.

But the evening belongs to Sharon D Clarke, a west end stalwart for many years in everything from the over-popular We Will Rock You to the under-rated Ghost, but never better than she is here. The smallness of the acting matched with the strength of the singing makes a thrilling mixture at the centre of the evening.

Never in my theatre-going life have I changed my mind so completely about the merits of a show, and it is this production and central performance that did it. Caroline or Change is an unusual musical but, as rendered here, it’s as dramatically and emotionally sophisticated as it is musically and visually satisfying.

Caroline or Change can be seen at The Playhouse Theatre, Northumberland Avenue, London. The new show runs until 6 April.

King’s Lynn spotlight on

FIT FOR A KING’S Places & Faces shines a spotlight on the majestic port of King ’s Lynn in West Norfolk, with its glorious heritage, awesome architecture and year-round attractions 20

centuries – a legacy that can still be traced in the town’s impressive architecture.

Those glory trading days may be well gone, but the stunning buildings left behind have been preserved and repurposed into modern-day attractions in their own right. Indeed, a wander around the West Norfolk town’s varied heritage sites takes in stunning buildings that are now restaurants, bars and live venues – perfect for the visitor who appreciates a dose of history with their hedonism.

Professional Norfolkian Abbie Panks knows better than most

Out&About

Ah, KL. Not for us the bustling megapolis of Malaysia’s capital city Kuala Lumpur, but an altogether more relaxed and close to home town brimming with history, culture and attractions King’s Lynn.

You have to go as far back as the 12th century to trace the roots of King’s Lynn – a once bustling seaport and England’s most important gateway to European markets. Indeed, until the discovery of the Americas and the rise of England’s western ports (such as Liverpool), King’s Lynn was a vital trading town, that blossomed in the 15th and 16th

the attractions of the town, being centre manager for the Vancouver Quarter shopping centre and also vice chair of Discover King’s Lynn.

“King’s Lynn is a large, historic market town packed with historic buildings and a beautiful quayside sitting,” says Panks. “The town is known for being a Hanse town and has an illustrious maritime history which is celebrated annually at the Hanse Festival [12 May 2019].

Alongside an array of independent and national stores, it also has a great mix of bars and restaurants.

“King’s Lynn boasts a strong and diverse calendar of events including Festival Too, King’s Lynn

21

FREE TRIAL

S3302 Places and Faces KHH v1.qxp_Layout 1 11/03/2018 19:48 Page 1

with the latest hearing aids. They are invisible and very comfortable.

WAX REMOVAL SERVICE

FREE

HEARING TESTS

INVISIBLE HEARING AIDS

A LEADING CONSUMER SURVEY Gave Independent hearing specialists like SOUND ADVICE HEARING the highest overall customer score for choice, price & value for money compared to the national high street brands *on selected products

Relax in the country near the North Norfolk coast

FREE

HEARING AID TRIALS

INDEPENDENT family business Home Visits available FREE aftercare 5 YEAR warranty* 5 YEAR FREE batteries*

GO Local. GO Independent. BE Happy!

Garden Brasserie Dinner, Sunday Lunch

Afternoon Tea Light bites, Afternoon Tea

The Farmers Arms Inn Real ales, good pub food, outside seating

SOUTH WOOTTON, KING’S LYNN, NORFOLK PE30 3HQ Centres also at Downham Market, Cromer & Holt

Tel: 01553 675566 E: reception@knightshill.co.uk www.soundadvicehearing.co.uk

www.knightshill.co.uk

King’s Lynn Corn Exchange February - May Highlights

April

February

March

Wed 13 - Nish Kumar Thu 14 - The Classic Rock Show Fri 15 - The ELO Experience Sat 16 - Forever In Blue Jeans Fri 22 - POP Divas Live!

Sat 23 - The Searchers Thu 28 - Let’s Hang On

Sat 2 - Arrival - The Hits Of ABBA Sat 9 - The Greatest Hits of Motown Sun 10 - Lee Mead Mon 11 - Collabro Fri 22 - The Elvis Years Sat 23 - Russell Watson Sat 24 - Brian Blessed Wed 27 - Sentimental Journey Fri 29 - Killer Queen Sat 30 - That’ll Be The Day

Sun 7 - Hormonal Housewives Wed 10 - Seven Drunken Nights Thu 11 - Peter Pan - Easter Panto Fri 12 - Rumours of Fleetwood Mac Sun 14 - Sing-a-long-a The Greatest Showman Thu 25 - Bringing On Back The Sixties Fri 26 - The Illegal Eagles

May Fri 10 - Pam Ayres Sat 11 - Masters of The House Fri 24 - The Drifters Sun 26 - Paul Merton’s Impro Chums Tue 28 - Brainiac Live!

Thu 30 & Fri 31 - The Jungle Book

Box Office: 01553 764864 www.kingslynncornexchange.co.uk

Out&About

Festival, Water-ski Racing, Mods and Rockers Bike Meet, Fairytales and Legends and a whole lot more! For those wanting to find out more about the town’s maritime history, there are both Hanse and Maritime Trails, as well as the fisherfolk museum, Trues Yard.”

Panks is clearly the right person to ask about King’s Lynn’s hotspots, so where does she like to hang out?

“It’s difficult to choose!” she says.

“My favourite restaurants are Market Bistro on Saturday Market Place and Bank House which overlooks the quayside. The best breakfast in town can be found at Archers on Purfleet Street (their pancakes are outstanding).

“For bars, there are some great ones to choose from including Goldings, The Bank House and The Gin Saloon.

Massey & Co is also lovely and has a great art-deco style.

“The Majestic Cinema is fantastic, not only is the building beautiful (it opened in 1928) but at just £4.50 it’s such great value. GroundWork Gallery on Purfleet Street is also fantastic and specialises in art and the environment.”

With the wisdom of Panks ringing in our ears, here’s our selection of King’s Lynn essentials.

potted shrimp, whitebait, anchovies, rollmop herrings and smoked salmon.

Or how about braised ox cheek, or parsnip and kale risotto? There’s a traditional Sunday lunch, a Great British Breakfast, or a pre-theatre menu offering two courses for £15 or three courses for £20.

Kings Staithe Square.

Tel: 01553 660492

ARCHERS

MARKET BISTRO Recently voted a runner up in the Observer Food Monthly restaurant of the year awards, this restaurant specialises in the finest local produce, handled with skill by chef proprietor Richard Gosling and his team. The set lunch menu is great value for money, with three courses available for £26.

This menu may typically include squid noodles to start, followed by Norfolk pheasant breast and toffee apple to finish. There is also a recommended five-course tasting menu available (with or without paired wines).

11 Saturday Market Place.

Tel: 01553 771483

BANK HOUSE The restaurant in this stylish hotel serves sparkling brasserie style dishes in this stunning Georgian landmark.

Enjoy the riverside terrace when weather permits, or enjoy a drink in the atmospheric bar, which used to be the bank manager’s office. You simply must try the Hanseatic seafood sharing platter, with crayfish tails,

Archers Kitchen & Cocktail Bar, to give it its full moniker, is another great venue serving British and American classics during the week and then focussing on liquid refreshment on the weekends. Panks may be in love with the breakfast, but the wide-ranging menu offers an eclectic mix, including vegan specials. The coffee here is also a hit with visitors.

Purfleet Street. Tel: 01553 764411

GOLDINGS Here’s an unusual combo – a pub with rooms, that also has a deli. As they say, when they took over the pub, the new owners wanted to “Cook food. Pull pints. Make people happy”. From what we can see, they’ve certainly managed to do that. The imposing building has been rejuvenated and the pub offers a great selection of craft beers and ales, wines, local spirits and honest pub grub. Dog-friendly, this is a great place to catch up with friends in unfussy, friendly surrounds.

8-9 Saturday Market Place: Tel: 01553 602388

SANDRINGHAM The Queen’s country estate retreat may have been in the headlines recently but it is seldom in the public spotlight – offering a much-needed oasis for the royal family. As such, it is a major local attraction and a big draw for visitors to king’s Lynn. Perhaps surprisingly, the extensive grounds of the 8,000 hectare Sandringham Estate includes a Country Park that is open to the public every day.

The house, museum and gardens opens for visitors from 1

April 2019, allowing incredible access to this fabulous piece of living history.

As well as guided tours of the rooms and gardens, the museum boasts an incredible collection of royal memorabilia, from cars to ceramics. There is also a restaurant and tea rooms, as well as the parish church of St Mary Magdalene where the royal family traditional attend the Christmas service.

23

Out&About

MARITIME TRAIL

The Maritime Trail guides people through King’s Lynn’s exceptional historic built environment.

By incorporating the stories of the merchants, shipbuilders, sailors, fishermen, press gangs, porters and pubs, which have played key roles in the town’s history, the trail helps to bring the past to life. www.visitnorfolk.co.uk

MASSEY & CO Another former bank converted into a beautiful hotel, with a great bar. If you love gin then this is the place for you, with a great selection including artisan tonics and local spirits. The bar has retained some of the architectural elements of the bank, making a cool contemporary space that comes alive at night. For sophisticated, discerning drinkers.

Also, don’t miss Turner’s restaurant, with its modern British menu worthy of its AA Rosette.

5-6 Tuesday Market Place.

Tel: 01553 774996

VANCOUVER QUARTER

CAPTAIN GEORGE VANCOUVER King’s Lynn was home to Captain George Vancouver, who famously charted the north-west coast of North America, declaring the land British Columbia. The city of Vancouver was of course subsequently named after the great man himself.

A commemorative statue of Captain George Vancouver can be found outside the Custom House.

This shopping centre, entertainment venue and dining destination in the centre of town offers a varied mix of outlets and options for visitors and residents. There’s everything you would expect from a high street shopping centre in terms of fashion, gifts and essentials from household name retailers, plus banks, bakers, coffee shops and even a noodle bar and lesser-spotted Wimpy. Named after Captain George Vancouver, who sailed with Captain Cook on HMS Discovery and has the Canadian city named after him, there is plenty to discover in the Vancouver Quarter.

Broad Street. Tel: 01533 819901

TRUE’S YARD This fascinating museum offers an incredible insight into an industry that has sadly faded from the British landscape in recent decades.

The True’s Yard Fisherfolk Museum pays tribute to the King’s Lynn’s fishing community, which once accounted for hundreds of families in the town. The fishing fleet still remains, but this backward glance shows the incredibly tough, and dangerous, profession in a new light. Going right back to Tudor times, True’s Yard charts the importance of the fishing industry in the town, and the lives of people who risked their lives to put fish on the table. This story is as much about those hardy souls as the sad demise of the industry.

North Street. Tel: 01553 770479

CORN EXCHANGE With a diverse programme of live events (music, comedy, theatre, dance and more), the Corn Exchange is the beating heart of entertainment in the town. Again housed in an incredible heritage building, this is an atmospheric venue where something always seems to be happening. Yes, there is more than the odd smattering of tribute acts, but there is also A-list comedy (Nish Kumar and Russel Kane in February), memorable music (Russell Watson and Collabro appear in March), and celebrity appearances (Ben Fogle and Brian Blessed both coming up, but not, thankfully, on the same bill). Whatever your passion, you’re sure to be well catered to at the Corn Exchange.

Tuesday Market Place. Tel: 01553 764864

FARMERS MARKET For more than 800 years, people have flocked to King’s Lynn for the Saturday market to find the best selection of local produce.

That tradition was revived last year with the introduction of a modern take on the farmers market, with stalls selling everything from local chutney to gin, seafood to vegan.

Held on the second Saturday of every month from April, we hope this retail initiative will continue to thrive in 2019. And where else would it be held, but in Saturday Market Place (despite what you might have heard comedian Mark Thomas say in his Radio 4 show recorded in the town recently and broadcast at the end of January).

KING’S LYNN FESTIVAL Established in 1951 and going from strength to strength, this music and arts extravaganza attracts international artists and thousands of visitors each year. With a focus on classical music, there is also space in the programme for folk, jazz, opera, dance, film, theatre and exhibitions – plus a lively fringe festival.

There are in fact two festivals in 2019 – one taking place over the weekend of 26-28 April and the two-week event running 14-27 July, with events happening all over town.

Tel: 01533 764864

Vikings

The Vikings land in Norwich this month and with them some rare local finds never before seen in public says Melanie Cook of VisitNorwich

in Norwich

Out&About

N

orwich’s medieval history

is a much talked about subject, with Norwich Castle and Norwich Cathedral top of the list of most visitors’ experiences in the city. Last year Channel 4 featured Norwich as Britain’s Most Historic Town – ‘Tudor Norwich’ - and it was thrilling to see the spotlight moved from present to past. Reminding us of events such as Kett’s Rebellion, it gave us a peak behind the door of what life in Norwich would have been like in Tudor times.

This year, it’s the turn of the Vikings, as a new exhibition opens this month at Norwich Castle Museum & Art Gallery (9 February – 8 September): ‘Viking: Rediscover the Legend’. This exhibition is a partnership by the British Museum and York Museums Trust, with the castle being the fourth and last venue on the tour – it’s also the only venue in the East of England.

The great thing about a touring exhibition such as this is that it draws you into a narrative of authority on the subject, setting the scene nationally whilst providing an opportunity to showcase local stories too. This is all the more meaningful to anyone from the local area who is able to see the exhibition in their hometown.

Here in Norwich, the castle is an incredible resource, and has a vast collection of Viking archaeology - far too much to be displayed permanently in its dedicated Viking gallery.

Exhibitions like Viking: Rediscover the Legend are hugely important because they present us with the chance to talk about and see wonderful treasures that we might not otherwise hear about or see.

Norwich is positioned at the centre of an extensive region, well known for its Viking heritage. The kingdom of East Anglia was conquered by the Vikings in 869 when King Edmund (of Bury St Edmunds) was martyred. Norfolk was one of the principal areas of Viking settlement in England.

By the beginning of the 8th century, several villages – one being ‘Norwic’ and settlements outside of it - slowly merged to eventually become ‘Norwich’.

Vikings were prominent in the area around Fye Bridge, with Tombland becoming the focal point and market place.

This was also the location of the Earl’s Palace.

‘Norwic’ is referenced on a silver coin and is the earliest found reference to the town. The coin was from the reign of King Athelstan, c930. Mints could only be in a

fortified area with a market, so it is widely believed that the villages and settlements had become one - Norwic – by this time.

Norwich Castle, from its own Viking collection, will – as part of this exhibition - display five wonderful and rare artefacts from the region which will not have been featured at any of the three previous venues. Three of them have also never been on public display before.

One incredible local exhibit to be featured is The Æthelred penny; a silver penny of an East Anglian king known only from this coinage – itself with only seven examples known. This shows that unlike the historical record, East Anglia had a king who survived the murder of Edmund in 869. Æthelred must have ruled on behalf of the Vikings until Guthrum settled in the kingdom in about 880.

Norwich Castle, from its own Viking collection, will - as part of this exhibition - display five wonderful and rare artefacts from the region which will not have been featured at any of the three previous venues.

Three of them have also never been on public display before.

The second of the five exceptional Castle treasures is The Hingham Hoard - a hoard of four silver brooches, two silver strap-ends and twenty-three silver pennies of King Edmund. They show the sort of wealth that the Anglo-Saxons were burying in the ground at exactly the time the Vikings were raiding the kingdom in the 860s.

Thor is a Germanic demi-god and Marvel character associated with thunder, strength, storms and lightening (and of course a hammer), that many of us will be familiar with. Throughout history, beginning from the Roman occupied areas of Germania, Thor was prominently talked about. However, Thor’s popularity was at its height during the Viking age.

The Great Witchingham Thor’s hammer is the third castle exhibit. This silver Thor’s hammer is inlaid with gold filigree wire

and is the most ornate Thor’s hammer found in Britain. It is a reminder of why the Anglo-Saxons called the Vikings heathens, as they believed in different gods. Like a Christian wearing a crucifix, this pendant was worn as an amulet, in the hope of Thor’s protection for the wearer.

The fourth local treasure is a gold lozenge brooch from Attleborough.

Lozenge brooches were typically Scandinavian and are relatively well known from England, however this brooch is unique in that it is made of gold. The brooch is a high-status piece of jewellery made from gold sheet with filigree wire inlays that is of a type made in Scandinavia and then imported.

Lastly, there is a gilded bronze plaque showing the image of a Valkyrie – a woman who in Norse mythology chose from the dead on the battlefield who would dine with Odin in his hall – with a warrior mounted on a horse. This plaque again shows the way scenes from Viking mythology were used on objects in everyday life. While such objects are well known in Scandinavia, they are exceptionally rare in England.

For the first time The Æthelred penny, The Hingham Hoard and the gold lozenge brooch from Attleborough will be on display.

There are many reasons to visit the exhibition, but one of the most compelling is the thought that there are probably many other Viking treasures still yet unfound, dug deep into the earth of our vast county.

For anyone interested in archaeology and with even the slighted interest in taking up a hobby as a detectorist, this exhibition will be an inspiration.

I’ll end with this great story: In April 1976, nine-year-old Gary Fridd was playing in North Yorkshire at Gilling West when he discovered the Gilling Sword 800-866AD. The two-edged iron sword dates from the 9th century. The sword’s handle is decorated with silver which has a combination of geometric and plant designs and is one of the finest Anglian weapons to be found in England. For his keen eye and resourcefulness for finding treasure, Gary was awarded a Blue Peter badge; as if finding such an amazing piece of history wasn’t enough! Lucky boy!

For things to do all year round as well as accommodation, places to eat, drink and shop go to www.visitnorwich.co.uk 27

www.bawdeswellgardencentre.co.uk www.bawdeswellgardencentre.co.uk

SPRING SEEDS AND BULBS NOW IN STOCK

January Special

25% OFF Oak & Cane furniture THROUGHOUT JANUARY WITH FREE DELIVERY IN NORFOLK. Reward Card

look out for our Star Buy offers in store

Why not start the New Year by Joining our free Reward Card scheme - beneďŹ t from great savings and receive vouchers to spend in store. Contact us for full details.

One of the largest selection of seeds and bulbs in Norfolk

Norwich Road, Bawdeswell, Dereham, Norfolk NR20 4RZ

Tel: 01362 688 387

... more than just a garden centre

Generously supported by the Dorset Foundation

Norwich Castle Museum & Art Gallery

9 February to 8 September 2019 www.museums.norfolk.gov.uk

York Helmet. Photography by Anthony Chappel-Ross. Image courtesy of York Museums Trust (Yorkshire Museum)

FOOD HALL Y LICENSED RESTAURANT Y TOYS Y CLOTHING Y BOOKS Y GIFTS Y CARDS

Generously supported by the Dorset Foundation Citizen Mag 186x136.indd 1

10/01/2019 12:27

Out&About

Romance IS IN THE AIR

If you’re looking for a different experience this Valentine’s, take a look at our top five unusual things to do, says Kayla Dunne from Visit North Norfolk.

W

ith its diverse coast and countryside, North Norfolk provides the ideal backdrop for unique things to do this Valentine’s. There’s nothing more romantic that gazing at the stars and we have some of the darkest skies in North Norfolk where you can see the northern lights, or aurora borealis. Two sites, Kelling Heath and Wiveton Downs have Dark Sky Discovery Status, which means the area is unaffected by light pollution, ideal for star gazing. Just wrap up warm, take a flask and your binoculars and enjoy the wonder of the skies above.

For something really unusual, experience a train ride through the beautiful North Norfolk countryside on the Wells & Walsingham Light Railway in their private Royal Carriage. There are two private compartments in this unique carriage, so you can enjoy a journey like it’s your own exclusive train and there are even blankets provided to keep cosy.

The railway runs four miles from WellsNext-the-Sea to Walsingham, and the journey takes around 30 minutes each way (booking in advance essential, call 01328 711630). At Walsingham, visit the priory where in February, there is a breath-taking

carpet of snowdrops which cover much of the 18 acres of woodland that surround this fascinating priory ruin.

Or hop aboard the North Norfolk Railway which is running an Evening Dining Train on Saturday 16 February where you can enjoy a three-course dinner immersed in the style of the golden era of steam with the moving backdrop of the countryside.

There is something quite romantic about a bicycle made for two; so why not hire a tandem bicycle and take a leisurely ride through the North Norfolk countryside.

You can hire tandems from Broadland Cycle Hire, who will provide you with helmets, locks, pumps and route maps. A charming bike ride would be the Broads

by Bike Route 9, stopping off for lunch at the Fur and Feather, Woodbastwick to rest those weary legs before setting off again.

For ‘love birds’, head to RSPB Titchwell Marsh Nature Reserve; the perfect place for bird and nature lovers. Enjoy a walk around a landscape of bird filled lagoons, tidal saltmarsh and secluded fresh water pools all set against the stunning backdrop

of The Wash. A short stroll takes you to a long stretch of sandy beach where the discarded hulls of WWII tanks lie hidden during high tide, complete with remnants of a petrified forest.

There are plenty of quiet places to sit and enjoy wildlife such as otters and shy water voles hiding in the reedbeds. Frogs and toads may emerge from their wintery homes if the weather is mild enough and a spell of sunshine might bring out early butterflies. Listen out for the melodic tune of the song thrush, as with many birds, the males are marking out their territories

ready for mating.

For those who love the outdoors and all it has to offer, take a Beans Boat Trip from Morston Quay to Blakeney Harbour while you enjoy the natural wonder of the coastline and seal colonies. As Blakeney Point is one of the most important sites for migrating birds in Europe, there’s plenty to see during the trip. You will pass the old Blakeney Lifeboat station before you arrive at the end of Blakeney Point where common and grey seals can be seen laying upon the shingle. If you’re still stuck for ideas, check out visitnorthnorfolk.com for things to do and places to eat.

29

Relax on the North Norfolk Coast    

Six delightful four star graded properties in Sheringham, families welcome All houses have off-road parking, free unlimited Wi-Fi, gardens and Sky TV Free unlimited use of Woodlands Leisure Centre, swim steam and gym. Pool has gentle sloping steps Superb quiet location, blue flag lifeguarded beach, steam railway, theatre, golf course, shops and restaurants, all within 300m / 5 min flat walk

r & Families Stay in one of our 4 stahou ses ded gra e Welcom

Enjoy our large family roo ms wit h T V & ensuite bat h/shower/ WC

VALENTINES SPECIALS Starters Two oysters: tempura & natural, sherry vinegar & Bloody Mary shot £11.95

Terrine for two, chicken parfait, smoked chicken terrine, pickled courgette & croûtes £10.95 Mains Côte de boeuf, chunky chips, grilled mushroom & beef tomato, Béarnaise & watercress £55 (To Share)

Superb kitchen / dining areas with patio doors T: 01263 577560 E: enquiries@sheringhamcottages.com W: www.sheringhamcottages.com

Salmon en croûte, Champagne & leek velouté, hassleback potatoes & soft herbs £17.50 Dessert Sharing plate of sweets: brûlée, tiffin, posset, cheesecake & sorbet £9.95 Strawberries & chocolate fondue £7.75

MAKE IT A ROMANTIC VALENTINES STAY

Escape this Valentine’s to the beautiful North Norfolk coast and enjoy a romantic break at The Lifeboat Inn, a traditional coastal hotel.

Stay in one of our cosy bedrooms from £185 per couple for one night, including chocolates in your room on arrival and our sumptuous main menu or our specials chosen for your Valentine’s celebration.

Valentines package includes £30 per person towards dinner

01485 512236 www.lifeboatinnthornham.com Ship Lane, Thornham, Norfolk PE36 6LT

PERFECT FOR PRE-THEATRE DINING

&

Food Drink Benedict’s Scofflaw

This bold aperitif is our take on ‘The Scofflaw’ a cocktail that was named after the term given to those who secretly sipped spirits throughout Prohibition, the Scofflaw debuted in 1924 at Harry’s

Nicole Cachao

Restaurant Manager at Benedicts Restaurant in Norwich www.restaurantbenedicts.com

Ingredients • 25ml vodka • 50ml rhubarb syrup

• Squeeze half a lemon • 2 drops of Angostura Bitters

Method

Photo: KATJA BAINBRIDGE

Pour all the ingredients into a shaker with 4 cubes of ice, shake vigorously for 10 seconds. Strain into a short tumbler with three cubes of ice. Garnish with a lemon twist.

& 31

Bar in Paris. Throughout time, this recipe has changed and adapted - and this is our seasonal take on a Parisian cocktail, using gorgeous Norfolk Rhubarb just in time for valentine’s day.

T h e Fo o d o f

32

Food&Drink

Fret not – there is still time to treat your significant other to an incredible meal as a sign of your love this Valentine’s Day. Places&Faces ® picks six of the best.

Ah, Valentine’s Day.

A day, and night, that strikes fear into most right-minded people, and is a welcome February filip to restaurants and flower sellers across the region. Although many restaurants will already be booked solid, there is always a chance you can grab a table for two at some cracking eateries in East Anglia.

Don’t worry, you haven’t left it too late, but you don’t want to find yourself gazing into the eyes of your loved one over a burger and fries if they are expecting a menu crafted for love. With that in mind, here are our top picks for passionate plates.

MARINER’S This French-inspired bistro and bar is the perfect setting for a dinner a deux. Gazing out across the Ipswich riverside, you could almost be in Monaco or Venice.

Well, almost. This floating restaurant (onboard an elegant, wood-panelled boat built in 1899) was purchased just a few months ago by French chef Julien Jourdain and his wife Karine, with the aim of returning the restaurant to

its former glory but with a more contemporary feel. On 14 February they have a special menu which includes dishes such as Oysters Kilpatrick, foie gras, cod with crab beignets and beef fillet with kale.

The menu costs £48 per person, with a £10 deposit and pre-booking required. Go on, float their boat.

Neptune Quay, Ipswich.

Tel: 01473 289748 www.marinersipswich.co.uk

TUDDENHAM MILL Seeing as Valentine’s Day falls midweek this year, there’s a good chance you can ‘get away’ with booking something special the following weekend, but it is going to have to be special. Like Tuddenham Mill, where you can dine finely and also enjoy a romantic weekend getaway. Chef patron Lee Bye says the three-rosette restaurant and boutique hotel they have a special menu planned, plus extra treats for guests. The meal itself starts with local oysters with horseradish aioli

and moves on to dishes including Goosnargh chicken cooked over coals with Macadamia satay. Yum. Then delight in fillet of Irish beef or Highland cod. And to finish, how about a show-stopping passionfruit baked Alaska. Cooked with skill and love, it’s a great way to make the most of the weekend, especially when paired with a stay in their fabulous rooms.

Tuddenham, Suffolk.

Tel: 01638 713552 www.tuddenhammill.co.uk 33

1st rule of engagement Diamonds

THE BILDESTON CROWN This atmospheric inn built in the 15th century is perfect for a romantic meal. On the big day itself they have a Valentine’s menu befitting their status as one of the county’s top listings in the Good Food Guide 2019 under the guidance of chef patron Chris Lee. That reputation has been built on the quality of cooking as well as sourcing the very best local produce. The menu includes cumin roasted scallop, watercress veloute, loin of Suffolk Venison and fillet of halibut. The menu is £59 per person, or stay on one of their awardwinning rooms for £95.

Bildeston, Suffolk. Tel: 01449 740510 www.thebildestoncrown.com

THE WILDEBEEST

3-4 Northgate Street, Great Yarmouth Tel: 01493 842719

www.coxandson.co.uk

Owners of the award-winning Ingham Swan, Chef patron Daniel Smith and his business partner Gregory Adjemian, bought The Wildebeest in April 2015 and have continued to win accolades for their outstanding cuisine. The Wildebeest embraces seasonal produce, top quality meat and sustainable fish, as well as using produce from their own farm. Valentine’s Day here is a gastronomic feast, with a journey including pan fried scallops, spiced pork cheek, pan roast halibut or goats cheese and red onion mille fuille. Don’t miss the excellent selection of cheeses with handmade biscuits.

The menu costs £65 per person, with a £20 deposit required. Enjoy!

Stoke Holy Cross, Norfolk. Tel: 01508 492497 www.thewildebeest.co.uk

We are making an exception here, as we know this award-wining, high-class restaurant is fully booked on 14 February but at time of going to press, tables are available either side, so if you want to avoid the cliché, this is ideal. Serving Modern British food in contemporary, classy surrounds, this is particularly good for vegetarians, with the eponymous chef offering bespoke vegetarian tasting menus and a la carte. Refreshing to see, especially in a time when more and more diners are being discerning about their diets. Expect exceptional dishes, matching creativity with impeccable presentation, for dishes that taste even better than they look. Recommended.

Upper St Giles Street, Norwich. Tel: 01603 633522 www.rogerhickmansrestaurant.com

Food&Drink

ROGER HICKMAN’S RESTAURANT

Rules of Engagement Diamonds!

Make it an occasion in itself (the ring won´ t count as a birthday gift!)

Propose in public?

Only if 300% sure of a yes Choose a ring that suits their style - they like it for a reason

WOOLF & SOCIAL Fancy something a bit different? Check out the unstuffy Woolf & Social for challenging sharing plates bursting with invention – perfect for a date or to spice up any relationship with talking-point dishes. Inspired by the traditional idea of a social club, the food is all about sharing, with a seasonal small plates menu showcasing chef Francis Woolf’s background in both street food and fine dining. What could be more suited to Valentine’s Day than sharing? Typical plates include broccoli with miso and chilli, mackerel with sorrel and fennel, or hake with cucumber and hot sauce. The menus here are always carefully thought through and are sure to delight and surprise, matched with an excellent selection of wines in a cool, contemporary setting.

Nelson Street, Norwich. Tel: 01603 443658 www.woolfandsocial.co.uk

Make it multi sensual - sounds, scents, sensations and tastes will bring back romantic nostalgia years later Trust your instincts you know them best

Trust Cox and Son we know diamonds best

3-4 Northgate Street, Great Yarmouth Tel: 01493 842719

www.coxandson.co.uk

Food&Drink

What’s so good about

celeriac Celeriac is a very underused and often forgotten about vegetable... why should we eat more?

Richard Bainbridge

It has very dense nutritional components, and the intake of celeriac can offer a lot of health benefits including:

www.restaurantbenedicts.com

Celeriac contains high amounts of dietary fiber, which is needed for proper digestion and metabolism. By keeping your digestive system in top shape, you can help prevent the development of various diseases that stem from metabolic dysfunction

Assists in energy production and storage.

Celeriac is a good source of vitamins B6 and B5, niacin, riboflavin and thiamine, which all play a major role in macronutrient synthesis that is important for the production of energy

Reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

Vitamin K is important for your body as it ensures that the calcium your body absorbs goes straight to your bones and does not become deposited in your heart valves and arteries. This prevents the development of different heart diseases and cardiovascular conditions.

Celeriac also contains a considerable amount of potassium, a mineral that helps in preventing hypertension by regulating your blood pressure.

Improves bone health.

Celeriac contains high amounts of vitamin K and phosphorus, which help in bone metabolism and the prevention of osteoporosis. Vitamin K is especially important for bone health because it promotes calcium absorption and prevents bone deterioration.

36

Celeriac risotto 2019 will be the year of the vegetable

and going into February there is one vegetable to me that is King – it even has the leaves around the top which look like a crown. It looks ugly but is so versatile and I think the uglier the vegetable the more delicious it is. Celeriac is the ultimate vegetable to me, what I love to do with celeriac is to make it into a risotto, with these cold days and nights a warming, creamy, rich, succulent risotto made with celeriac. There is no beans or rice it is diced celeriac, cream and fresh herbs served with the raw mushrooms on top I think it makes a special, exciting and different Valentine’s tea.

Ingredients - SERVES 4

• 1 Small Celeriac (Cut into 0.5cm Cubes) • 1 Small Banana Shallot (Thinly Sliced) • 1 Litre Chicken or Vegetable Stock • Small Bunch of Chives • 50g Salted Butter • 50g Parmesan (Grated) • 1 Tbsp Double Cream or Crème Fraîche • 150ml White Wine • 4 Button Mushrooms (Thinly Sliced) • Cep Powder to Garnish • 100g Spinach Leaves

Method

Place a pot onto a medium heat, once the pan is hot add the butter followed by the shallots. Turn down the heat and cook them off without colour, approximately 4-6 minutes.

Photo: KATJA BAINBRIDGE

Maintains a healthy digestive system.

is the chef proprietor of Benedicts Restaurant in Norwich

Add the diced celeriac and sweat with the shallots for another 4-6 minutes, pour in the white wine and bring to the boil then turn down the heat to reduce the wine by 3/4.

Pour in the chicken or vegetable stock and bring back to the boil. Once boiling turn the heat down and cook until the celeriac is tender, approximately 30-40 minutes, remove from the heat and allow to cool until you are ready to serve.

Warm back through on the stove bringing everything to a simmer then add the parmesan and stir well.

Remove from the heat and check the seasoning, garnish with chives and serve in a bowl with sautéed spinach, raw sliced button mushrooms on top and dusted with Cep powder.

SALE THE BIG WINTER

H U G E S AV I N G S AC R O S S A L L H O M E F U R N I S H I N G D E PA R T M E N T S

Ask in store for details

Bury St. Edmunds t: 01284 752804 | Ipswich t: 01473 253164 | glasswells.co.uk FURNITURE | SOFAS | BEDS | SOFT FURNISHINGS | LINENS | CARPETS | GIFTS | COOKSHOP | LIGHTING | RESTAURANT | FREE PARKING

scallops

Pan fried

RECIPE

crispy pancetta, salt baked celeriac, shallot rings & veal jus

Breas t of Norfo lk phea sant, Conf it leg, white polen ta, black berri es , hazle nuts and a black berry jus INGREDIENTS

e arkke Peter Clar r Cl Pete d chef hea executive chef of the e head executiv of the L HOTEL IMPERIA IMPERIAL HOTEL in Great Yarmouth

SERVES SIX

• 4 pheasant breasts and 4 pheasant legs

• Thyme, duck fat, salt and pepper

• 40g roasted hazelnuts

• 3 heritage carrots peeled and cut on the

• 3 blackberries each

• 6 oz polenta flour( quick cook) • 2.5 oz of grated parmesan • 1.5 pints of water

• Half a pint of milk • 4 oz butter

• Oil

slant into lozenges.

• 12 blackberries pureed and sieved with 1tbsp of water

• 2 pint beef stock reduced to 1/2 a pint • 25g pea shoots

METHOD

Take the duck fat and thyme and place in a saucepan bring to a rolling simmer and place the pheasant legs into it,cook on the lowest heat Until tender and cooked through, this will take about 3 hours. Once they have been on the stove gas for 2 and a half hours take the water,milk and some salt and pepper and place in a saucepan, bring to the boil and add the polenta flour bring to the boil whisking all the time and be careful as if it gets too hot it will spit out of the pan, once this has cooked for 2 minutes at boiling point, add the parmesan cheese and butter and whisk this in until it has been incorporated. Reserve this warm somewhere.

Take the beef stock out that has been reduced and place in a clean saucepan, add the blackberry puree a bit at a time until you are happy with the taste you should became to taste the beef flavour of the stock and the BlackBerry underneath it !!

Place to one side to heat up later Blanch the carrots in boiling salted water and refresh once cooked, around 6 minutes.

Next put a trying pan on capable if taking 4 pheasant breasts and add 1 tbsp of oil, heat up and place the pheasant breast skin side down and fry until golden brown both sides, add the carrots place in a oven heated to 185.c for 2-3 minutes for a dash of pink in the pheasant breast and 2 minutes linger for well done juicy finish. Leave to rest somewhere warm.

TO FINISH

Place the leg into the oven to heat through and the skin to crisp. Reheat the polenta so it is boiling hot and place a quenelle on to the plate at the top, heat the sauce back up to boiling point and add the blackberries and hazelnuts. Cut the breast into 3 and place up against the polenta, add the leg next to it and then the carrots in a uniform pile next to the breast. Spoon the sauce over the breast and leg so that it covers the meat and garnish with pea shoots and enjoy !!

WINE

2015 Pinot age Rheb okslo of Vineyards South Afric a

Nick Mobbs director and wine expert at the IMPERIAL HOTEL

38

This is a wonderful estate which dates back to the late 1700s with traditional Cape Dutch style buildings some of which date back to the early settlers.

The current owners bought the estate in 2006 and have taken advantage of the unique micro climate of the vineyards in the Paarl valley giving the ideal climatic conditions for the growing of premium grapes The Pinotage is a grape which is basically only grown in South Africa. A hybrid grape being a cross between the Pinot Noir and Cinsault. The grape thrives in South Africa but very few other places in the world.

The wine is made by fermenting the grapes in Stainless steel on their skins and regular pump over of the cap to extract colour and flavour. The wine was then aged in 60% new oak and 40% 2 year old oak barrels for 14 months.

A wonderful wine it shows complex, dark fruit flavours with notes of blackberry, prunes and hints of soft oak spices.

The tannins fill the palate and nuances of dried fruit flavours linger on the aftertaste and work really well with the flavours of the Pheasant dish.

• A team of brilliant chefs • Superb wine list • Laid-back atmosphere The perfect restaurant for dinner or Sunday lunch. At the Imperial Hotel,

• 3 scallops per person

• 700g salt

• 50g flour

• 500g chicken bones

• 100ml port

• 3tbsp rapeseed oil

• 4floz of water

• 50ml milk

• 1 pig’s trotter

• 2 shallots sliced

• Salt and pepper

• 2 slices of pancetta each

• 50g butter

• 250g of beef trimmings

• 4 cloves garlic sliced

• 1 large celeriac • 110g of egg whites

Food&Drink

Ingredients - SERVES 4

RECIPE

that you can it from a white polen ta, Conf getleg, • Peas shoots to garnish • 50ml creamlk phea sant, Norfo Breas t of good butchers RECIPE • 1 shallot cut into rings jus berry black a and nuts , hazle esveal • 500g bones black berri • 375ml red wine

SERVES SIX Breast of IENTS Norfolk pheasant, Confit leg, white polenta, INGRED pepper salttoand blackberries , hazlenuts and jus • Thyme, t legs 4 pheasan and paper to remove excess moisture.

Keepa theblackberry creamduck (addfat, more taste if you think it is Start off by roasting the trotters and chicken • 4 pheasant breasts

Method

preparedries scallops and veal bones in a hot oven. When cooked each in the fridge until needed. • Oilnecessary). Add a grind of pepper and then • 3 blackber SERVES SIX INGREDIENTS Place the pancetta slices on a baking tray keep it warm somewhere. (roughly about an hour) place the bones • 3 heritage carrots peeled and cut on the sproof legs hazelnut roasted covered with grease paper. Sandwich Next preheat deep fryer to 180˚c. Coat and trotters, along with any juices, into a • 40g • Thyme,slant duck fat,lozenges salt anda.pepper • 4apheasant breasts and 4 pheasant into sheetcook) of grease proof•paper your shallot rings in milk and then flour, and large pan. Add to this any odds and ends of • 6 between flour( quick oz polenta Oil • 3 blackberries eachanother sieved with ries pureed d chef blackber utive exec and an additional baking tray, this will keep • 12fry individually untiland golden brown. vegetables that you havehea in your fridge, fill of grated parmesan • 2.5 ozhazelnuts • 3 heritage carrots peeled and cut on the • 40g roasted of water 1tbsp the of the pancetta slices fl at during the to the brim with water and bring slant into lozenges.

EL HOT to fibeef nish water of quick RIAL • 6 oz polenta flour( cook) • 1.5 pints IMPE stock reduced to 1/2 a pint cooking process. Cook in the oven • 2 pint to the boil, then reduce the heat chef e head executiv • 12 blackberries pureed and sieved with outh Yarm t Grea in at 180˚c until crispy. and simmerof forthe six hours.

Heat a shoots frying pan big enough to take the 12 • 2.5 oz of grated parmesan of milk a pint • Half pea 25g • 1tbsp of water Make a salt bake dough by WhenIMPERIA ready starin into scallops until extremely hot and add a drop L HOTEL • 1.5 pints water butter 4 oz • of • 2 pint beef stock reduced 1/2scallops a pint for a minute adding salt to the egg whites another pan and simmerhuntil of rapeseed oil, frytothe Yarmout in Great • Half a pint of milk and work in to a crumble • 25g pea shoots reduced by half, then reserve or so on each side and rest in a warm place, METHOD if taking • 4 oz butter capable trying put a mix.thyme Add the Nextboth to the side until needed. season sides to pan rest.on Heat through the 4 a at a place ainbit andwater Take the duck fat and of oil, heat up 1 tbsp addthe andheat t breasts pheasan the time slowly bring it to a thick Colour the sliced shallots, place jus to boiling point and celeriac and simmer rolling a to bring n METHODsaucepa the pheasant breast skin side down and placehot. and Until lowest the tail paste.

Top theheat celeriac. onand garlic and the beef trimmings until piping it,cook into legsthyme Next put auntil trying pan on capable taking 4 the carrots Take the pheasan duck fat tand and place in a add bothifsides, brown golden fry 3 will take about this through, Cover a large baking until they have a really dark colour. saucepantender Place a large spoonful of celeriac in2-3up breasts and add 1 tbsp oil,for heat bring and to a cooked rolling simmer and placetray the with pheasant minutes 185.c to of heated in a oven place for gas stove the on been have they Once hours. grease proof paper and add a little of Add the wine and port and reduce that middle of a bowl,breast add 3skin sidetdown andthe place the pheasant pheasant legs into it,cook on the lowest heat Until and 2 breastand the pheasan in pink of dash a for some and lk water,mi the take hoursmixture half asalt 2 and golden both sides, add the carrots tender and cooked through, this willto take the dough theabout centre3 to act asfry until to a glaze being sure to scrape the bottom scallops andbrown then for break the Leave to rest finish. juicy done well linger minutes to bring n, a saucepa in place and pepper and saltathey in a oven heated tothat 185.c for 2-3 minutes been on thePlace stove gasceleriac for basehave for the celeriac. the on place of the pan to get all of the caramelisedhours. Once 2 pieces of pancetta warm. somewhe bring to the boilfor a dash polenta flour the add of pinkrein the pheasant breast and 2 and hours take the water,milk and some boiland thethis then continue to paster the entire goodness from the pan. Now add the 2 and a half you have crisped up two it gets too as ifto be careful and minutes linger for well done juicy finish. Leave to rest salt and pepper and place in a saucepan, bring time all the whisking celeriac until covered with the saltboil bake reduced stock and reduce again until the the boil and andTO decoratively arrange FINISH cookedsomewhere warm. flour bring to this the has once pan, out of the spitpolenta it willthe hot add dough.

Cook for 1 hour at Take sauce has a thick glossy consistency. You them in and the oven to heat through and the leg intothe thearound Place whisking all time and be careful as180˚c. if it gets tooout ofn parmesa the add point, at boiling 2 minutes forthe the oven and letand itonce sitwhisk for minutes cool, should have about 450ml of sauce. hot it will cheese scallops. few the polenta so it is boiling hot spit out of the pan, this20 has crisp.aReheat been skin toPlace TO FINISH until ittohas incooked this er butt and at the plateand to the for 2 minutes at boiling point, add the parmesan a quenelle the legplace into the oven toon heat through thetop, then take of the salt dough.

Finallyre. take Place and Next prepare the scallops. Make sure pea shoots over the somewhe warm this Reserve ted.out incorpora add and point cheese and butt er and whisk this in until it has been boiling to up skin to crisp.

Reheat the polenta so it is boiling hot back sauce and the heat reduced been has the cooked celeriac fl esh out, puree in a food that the muscle has been taken off and also Take the beef stock out that top. Finish with the incorporated. Reserve this warm somewhere. s. Cut place quenelleries on and to the plate at the the top,breast into hazelnut ry andjus theablackber blackber the n, add processer withsaucepa 50g butter and 50ml double the orange roe. Pat dry or leave on kitchen in a clean and enjoy. place Take the beef stock out that has been reduced and

Peter Clarke

Peter Clarke

2016 Da Vinci Vermentino Italy

back up up against to boiling and add add the leg polenta, thepoint and place until you are happy with the heat the3sauce bit at a time place in apuree cleanasaucepan, add the blackberry the blackberries and hazelnuts.

Cut the breast intopile next uniform a in carrots the then and it to flavour next beef the taste to became should taste puree a bit at ayou time until you are happy with the 3 and place upbreast. against the polenta, add the leg breast and the over sauce the Spoon !! it the th to ry undernea BlackBer thetaste and to the stock taste you of should became the beef flavour next to it and then the carrots a uniform pile next with pea and garnish theinmeat covers itfruit that so leg later up heat to side one to Place Vineyard: The for this wine is grown in of the stock and the BlackBerry underneath itis!!a white- to the breast. Spoon the sauce over the breast and Vermentino !! enjoy and and shoots water salted boiling in carrots the Blanch Place to one side to heat up later that it covers the and garnish with pea vineyards owned bymeat the Cantine Leonardo wine grape grown in variousleg so 6 minutes. around cooked, once Blanch the carrots in boiling salted water and the refresh shoots and enjoy growers.

The!!grapes are hand-picked and locations around refresh once cooked, around 6 minutes.

WINE

the wine is 100% Vermentino. western Mediterranean: northwestern Italy, WINE southern France and the neighboring islands Winemaking: After the harvest the grapes of Corsica and Sardinia. go through a gentle crushing and pressing, a Afric South ards of Viney okslo Rhebthis ageis where PinotRheboksloof 2015 In Tuscany, which particular using aSouth technique Africa called semi-reduction 2015 Pinotage Vineyards wine comes from, the vineyards produce (i.e. very low content of oxygen). Clear must the by fermenti made some of This Italy’s richest The wine byiscold settling for 24ng hours. estate which dates is obtained ul Vermentino. wonderf is avery This is a wonderful estate which dates The winegrapes is made by fermenting thetheir skins on steel Stainless in The warmer and sunnier Tuscan climate al tradition with 1700s Fermentation takes place at a controlled to the late back inand Stainless steel onover theirof skins back to the late 1700s with traditional the cap to pump regular of grapes somesuch combinesCape with winemaking techniques style buildings Dutch ofover 16-18°C, helped by the Cape Dutch style buildings some of and temperature regular pump of the cap to The wine flavour. and colour settlers. cold extract early the to back as skin and lees contact and barrel aging date which technology, which maintains which date back to the early settlers. extract colour andaged flavour.

The wine and oak in 60% new was then estate the bought owners current to create aThe Vermentino whose weight and was the then aged in characteristics 60% new oak and The current owners bought the estate aromatic of for 14 barrels oak old year 2 40% ge advanta taken have in 2006 in 2006 and haveand taken advantage 2 year old oak barrels 14 in aromatic complexity might be compared to 40%this varietal.

The wine for is kept of the months. months. microofclimate unique of the of theofunique micro the that Viognier.

Theclimate richness of the wine temperature-controlled tanks until shows it wine A wonderf the valley Paarl the s in vineyards inwith the the Paarl valley giving thegiving wine itulshows director and wine expert at the and director goes wellvineyard pan fried scallops dish. A wonderful with January/February and then bottled. flavours fruit ctor and wine dark , direwine complex growing the for s ideal climatic conditions for the growing complex, dark fruit flavours with condition ideal climatic IMPERIAL HOTEL the rt at expert at Leonardo da Vinci Winery was founded innotes of blackberry, ry, prunes the of blackber notes expe of premium grapes prunes grapes Tasting Note: This wine shows premium of IMPERIAL HOTEL 1961 when small winegrowers decidedand hintsand soft oak spices. of spices. hints The Pinotage a thirty grapeis which is basically oak IMPERIAL HOTEL which is basically a grape The isPinotage notes of of soft fragrant blossom, citrus palate and fill theand to combine forces in order to share their tannins only grown in South Africa.

A hybrid grape The tannins fill the palate The grape hybrid A Africa.

South in grown only fruit and aromas characteristic of flavours fruit dried being a cross between the Pinot Noir and nuances of dried fruit flavours of nuances passion for winemaking and the costs of and Noir Pinot the being a cross between this varietal, such asand elderfl ower.

It work and Cinsault.

The grape thrives in South Africa linger on the aft ertaste work ertaste aft the on linger Africa Southfrom building a single cellar to thrives produce in wine grape The Cinsault. is vibrant, refreshing and fruity with really well with the flavours of the but very few other places in the world. the of flavours the with well really in the world. other the red and grapes inplaces this territory. very few butwhite Pheasant dish. acidity a beautiful t dish.and undertones of Pheasan minerality on the finish.

Photography by MALCOLM HIRST

Mobbs Mob NickNick obbs M ick bs N

• A team of brilliant chefs • A team of brilliant chefs • Superb wine list wine list • Superb • Laid-back atmosphere

• Laid-back atmosphere

The perfect restaurant for dinner or Sunday lunch. the Imperial Hotel, for dinner or restaurant perfect TheAt North Drive,Sunday Gt Yarmouth, NR30 1EQ. Hotel, the Imperial lunch. At To book callNorth 01493 842000 Gt Yarmouth, NR30 1EQ. Drive,

www.cafecru.co.uk

To -book Sunday 12.30 2pmcall 01493 842000 Monday - Saturday 6.30 - 10pm Sunday 12.30 - 2pm The Terrace is open daily. For opening Monday - Saturday 6.30 - 10pm times & menu go to imperialhotel.co.uk

www.cafecru.co.uk

The Terrace is open daily. For opening times & menu go to imperialhotel.co.uk

INGREDIENTS - SERVES ABOUT 4 For the Braised Feather of “Out to Pasture” Montbeliarde Beef • 1kg feather blade of beef • 2 diced onions • 2 diced carrots • 1 stalk diced celery • 1 head of garlic

Tyler Torrance

is the chef proprietor of Boarding House in Halesworth

www.boardinghousehalesworth.com @BHHalesworth

Out to pasture “OUT TO PASTURE” BEEF is the newest addition to the all ready fabulous products available in Suffolk. As a chef, I couldn’t be more excited to introduce this to you…

The Thickitt family from Clarkes of Bramfield have paired up with the Crickmore family of Fen Farms, home of the award winning Baron Bigod Brie, to bring to you their grass fed, slow growth retired, Montbeliarde dairy cattle. I want you to think a beefier beef, this is quite frankly the biggest flavour I have seen in British beef to this date. “Out to pasture” beef brings a complexity to Suffolk beef that is sure to become a favourite in restaurants and homes alike. Clarkes

master butchers have dry aged this well bred mature beef for 45 days before jointing, which has coaxed the depth of rich flavour and succulence that is a pleasure to cook with.

To celebrate this lovely product this month I’m doing a slow braised feather blade of beef and a 20 hour roast of topside; there is robust richness in both of these methods of cooking that brings out the best in this product and pairs so well with a nice glass of red wine.

Roast heritage carrots and a sauce from the braising juices brings out a simplicity that pays homage to this new addition of Suffolk beef.

• stalks rosemary • 3 star anise • 1.5L light stock • 1tbs tomato puree • 1tbs black pepper • Maldon sea salt to taste

For the 20 hour slow roast of “Out to Pasture” Montbeliarde Beef • 1kg corner cut topside of beef (my family’s favourite cut) • thyme & sea salt

For the Heritage Carrot • 1kg mix heritage carrot peeled • 1 sprig thyme • 1tbs butter for roasting

METHOD For the Braised Feather of “Out to Pasture” Montbeliarde Beef Seal the feather of beef in a hot pan, browning all sides, then place in an oven proof dish with all the ingredients, ensuring the shoulder is covered with the stock. We bring this up to a slow simmer then cover and place in a moderately hot oven, 180ºC for approximately 4 hours until the meat is fork tender. Remove the feather of beef from the braising liquor, cool slightly so you can handle the meat, then roll in cling film to shape into a uniform log, then chill to set.

Once cooled, cut in to uniform pieces and reserve. When ready to serve panfry to a nice golden colour ensuring the meat is warmed through, baste with butter and reserve for plating.

Chefs Tip:

Save the braising liquor once strained; with a little care and reduction it will make the finest gravy you have ever tried. Don’t forget the red wine. x

40

Food&Drink RAW MILK REVOLUTION Award winning Baron Bigod Brie a true Suffolk gem Raw Milk Revolution available at all fine delis and farm shops.

Proudly served at The Boarding House.

UPCOMING EVENTS You can also try this amazing 20 hour roasted Montbeliarde Beef as a traditional Sunday roast served throughout February and March at The Boarding House in Halesworth.

Dinner & Dance 7 March Learn how to Jive with Beth Holloway.

Price: £25 to include dance lesson, two courses (main & dessert) and an evening of dancing. Bring a dance friend or partner, come as you are or dress to impress.

For the 20 hour slow roast of “Out to Pasture” Beef

For the heritage carrots

Seal your beef in a hot pan with thyme and sea salt and then place on a roasting tray. The secret to this cut is the lowest of low cooking, temperatures around 57ºC. This is an effort in patience that will be rewarded ten fold.

We roast our beef to pink at The Boarding House Dining Rooms; this allows for the most tender succulent beef topside ever.

Absolute perfection! Carve when ready to plate.

F E AT U R E D W I N E

2014 Ventoux ‘Vieux Clocher’, Domaine Arnoux Perfect with the “Out to Pasture” Montbeliarde Beef

Heritage carrots are so beautiful, especially when simply peeled and roasted with butter and thyme. I can’t think of anything that pairs better with beef.

TO SERVE On a nice rustic bowl place the braised Out to pasture Beef Feather and slow roasted topside of beef with the roasted heritage carrots, I serve this dish with mustard greens and the braising juices. Enjoy x.

Gourmet Wine Dinner 9 May French food and wine pairing.

Price: £48 to include wine with each of the four courses (starter, main, cheese, dessert)

75% grenache, 10% syrah, 10% carignan and 5% cinsault. Grown on the slopes of Mont Ventoux. This French red has a deep complex nose - plum and damson fruit backed up by a rich mix of Mediterranean herbs, with notes of mountainside rosemary, thyme and lavender.

41

p u e c i p S your ne i t n e l a V X THE SPICE TRAIL

2 Filby Lane, Ormesby, near Great Yarmouth Tel: 01493 731111/731101 www.planetspiceormesby.co.uk Project2_Layout 1 13/12/2018 15:48 Page 1

The Cliftonville Hotel, Cromer All Day Coffee Shop and Bar

Ladies who Lunch

are invited to enjoy a free arrival drink.

Choose from our House Wines, Soft Drinks, Beers, Tea or Coffee.

Simply bring along this advertisement and present it to your server when ordering*

For more information or to book

01263 512543

reservations@cliftonvillehotel.co.uk www.cliftonvillehotel.co.uk @TheCliftonville

www.facebook.com/cliftonvillehotel

Cliftonville Hotel, Seafront, Cromer, Norfolk NR27 9AS *Oer applies to two people when ordering two main meals. Available from 3rd January until 31st March Mondays to Fridays. Can not be used in conjunction with any other oer

&

Buy Try

A SMART TIME TO WATCH

Apple Watch Over recent years the smart watch has firmly secured its position in the market place. With a wide selection from the also-rans to high end bands, such as TAG Heuer with their Connected Modular collection getting in on the act, it makes sense to join the party, even if some of us have arrived some what fashionably late.

Arguably the two big boys on the block are Apple and Fitbit, and both have their place. Fitbit for example is more economically accessible but has less functionality, where as Apple’s Watch is a hit for fitness enthusiasts as well as being a modern design classic

& 43

and a much sort after lifestyle piece. The latest ‘Series 4’ incarnation seamlessly integrates into your apple world and has even more technology to boot, including optical and electrical heart sensors making this an incredibly ‘smart’ watch.

Although prices start from £399 for GPS and £499 for GPS+Cellular, the freedom to make phones calls, stream music, track your movement and fitness, and make emergency calls all from your wrist could make this look like a bargain to most.

Apple, intu Chapelfield, Norwich www.apple.com/uk/shop

Books

This month’s recommended reads

THE ACCIDENTAL SPY

by Sean O’Driscoll

The extraordinary true story of how an ordinary man became the most successful spy in modern history.

Through unprecedented interview access to David Rupert, The Accidental Spy reveals the gripping inside story of the American trucker who made $10 million working for the FBI and MI5 to bring down a deadly terrorist organisation: the Real IRA. David Rupert is a 6’7”, 300lb frustrated trucking manager with three failed marriages and a list of struggling businesses. On holiday in Florida, he meets a beautiful young Democratic Party supporter and lobbyist for the IRA’s US wing, who invites him on a trip to Ireland where he meets members of the IRA. What

BOY NUMBER 26

by Tommy Rhattigan

Placing a child in care doesn’t

mean caring for a child.

When little Tommy Rhattigan was taken into care in 1964 aged just 8, he entered a closed off world of institutional sexual abuse.

Moved between a care home in Manchester to a reform school in Liverpool, the state was supposed to pick up the duty of care that his parents had failed to give him. But instead, separated from his siblings, young Tommy was thrown to the wolves.

Tommy Rhattigan takes us, in his own inimitable way, back to his own childhood of pranks, cruelty and laughter grown from a need to survive his daily torment and to stick two fingers up to the system that was failing him so spectacularly. A harsh true account of working class hardship in 60s and 70s Manchester and Liverpool.

Tommy Rhattigan was born in Athlone, Southern Ireland but grew up in crippling poverty in Hulme in Manchester. He had a close call with the notorious Moors Murderers as a child and his narrow escape is documented in his first book, 1963: A Slice of Bread and Jam. 44

happens next will change his life forever: Rupert is convinced by the FBI to become an informant.

An outsider with no connection to Ireland, Rupert was thrown into a world of espionage and danger as he began an astonishing ascent to the very top of the Real IRA, a breakaway group committed to destroying peace in Northern Ireland. Becoming a confidante of Mickey McKevitt, he gathered vitally important information about membership, fundraising and weaponry for the FBI and British intelligence in one of the most successful anti-terrorism operations of all time.

FIGHTING MONSTERS

by Jim Matthews

An intelligent and evocatively written memoir that brings to life the war zones and broken, twisted, dusty battlefields and border towns of northern Syria.

Former Royal Marine Jim Matthews gives up a lucrative career teaching English in Saudi Arabia, and returns to northern Syria to fight ISIS alongside the Kurdish forces. But why, after years as a revolutionary, left-leaning, anti-war protestor, does he find himself pulled once more into a conflict zone? Does he miss war?

Jim is attracted by what he calls the Kurds’ ‘Democratic Confederalism’ – ‘a grassroots political system, where everyone has fair and equal representation in social decision-making.’ But he is never quite convinced of his own reasons for going to Iraq. He is no cold avenger, righter of wrongs or money-grabbing mercenary. In fact, he remains apart from those around him. For Jim, the real conflict is within himself. all the above books are available from www.mirrorbooks.co.uk

Buy&Try

Johanna

AUTH of OR Monthe th

HANDLEY

This month Places&Faces asks best-selling author Johanna Handley a few questions to see what makes her tick.

How did you become a full time author, what did you do before hand?

I worked in marketing for 15 years before I decided to focus all my efforts on my ‘real’ career as an author. Becoming an author was easy - I’m not sure you become an author, more you simply ARE one, and you know it. Getting published, however, is a different story! I got eighteen rejection letters the first time I tried to sell a manuscript. I went back and started again from the beginning. The second-time around, I only got fifteen rejection letters, plus three slightly more hopeful notes and comments and requests to re-read with amendments. The third time around, I hooked a publisher. The fourth time, I got myself an amazing agent. Now, I’m on a roll.

But becoming an author, really, is about not giving up. Those rejections hurt, but I knew I couldn’t stop trying.

Have you always wanted to be a writer?

I have always wanted to be a writer, yes, every since I can remember. I wrote my first book when I was 7 years old. It was a book of poems and the very first page says “When I grow up, I want to be a writer.”

Growing up, I wrote short stories, letters, articles, and lots and lots of diaries. I would have studied English and Creative Writing at university, but my parents (bless them) decided Economics would be a much worthier option- it would apparently lead to a more ‘secure’ career.

I was a good girl so I did what I was told and I suppose I forgot about writing for a long time, and then began my career in marketing (absolutely no chance with the banking- I ended up with a good degree but also an utter conviction I would never have anything to do with Economics!) Years and years later in my 30s, whilst rooting through my parents garage full of boxes, I came across a box full of paper. Diaries, letters, short stories, and also, a book I had written, aged 7, reminding me what I wanted to be when I grew up. It was time to grow up. I quit my job the next day and have never looked back!

Have you had books published outside of the Juniper Slade series?

Yes, I have two children’s book series’ published in Qatar in the Middle East. I have created some characters based on typical animals found in Qatar- Oscar the Oryx and Candy the Camel. These are really fun characters for children aged 3-8 and

they’re great stories based on important messages. Oscar is a bit of an anti-eco warrior- he wastes water, doesn’t recycle, and doesn’t do a lot to contribute positively to our environment. So he gets taught quite a few lessons on how to be a bit more eco-friendly! And Candy the Camel can be a bit of a bully sometimes… but really she’s just insecure. It’s a different take on bullying, asking children to remember that kindness is always a better answer than the alternative, no matter what.

Who is your favourite character from one of your books and who would you like to see play them in a film?

My favourite character is always going to be the evil one! Without giving too much away to your readers, Lucy Creed is the most twisted, psychologically damaged character I have ever created. I love her.

She is manipulative, full of anger and driven purely by her need for revenge. I had to dig deep into her history, her life before she appeared in the story, to really delve into how and why she is the way she is. She is incredibly fun to write, that’s for sure.

What do you do to relax?

Unsurprisingly, I read a lot! At least 300 books a year. I read to relax and I read to learn, because really, the only way to be a better writer is to study the art of writing.

For me, it’s the same with television and film. I watch all the latest TV series, especially anything young adult or thriller because it helps me to plot. Stories in any form fascinate me, so I practically drink them in! I’m also an animal-lover (currently up to 11 cats at home- all rescued). I walk my dog (also a rescue), and look after my cats… and my daughter and husband too!

Please tell us something about you that we wouldn’t know?

I grew up on a little island on the west coast of France called Ile de Re. It’s a gorgeous,

little-known part of France, that is my own little piece of Paradise. It’s basically beaches and bars, very family-friendly, and it’s where I call home. Very quiet in the winter, and bursting with things to do in the summer. It’s one of Europe’s best kept secrets… so shhhh!

WIN

A signed copy of The Burning of Juniper Slaide 5 signed copies up for grabs!

This month we have teamed up with the amazing author Johanna Handley and five lucky readers have the chance to win a signed copy of her book. To be in with a chance of winning, answer this question:

What is the name of Johanna’s favourite character from one of her books?

Title your answers ‘JUNIPER’ and send your answer and contact details by email to competitions@h2creativemedia.co.uk or enter by post at Places & Faces Magazine, H2 Creative Media, Micropress Printers Ltd, Fountain Way, Reydon Business Park, Suffolk IP18 6DH. Competition closes 28 February 2019. See page 7 for full terms & conditions.

45

Abacus Marquees

your special event is our special event...

The perfect venue for your special day www.athenaeumbse.co.uk

UNIQUE CHANDELIERED BALLROOM AND FOUR ADDITIONAL FUNCTION ROOMS AVAILABLE TO HIRE

EAT... DRINK...

AND BE MARRIED! WEDDINGS FROM 20-160 SEATED PARTIES UP TO 250

WEDDING PACKAGES FROM £30 PER HEAD

IN HOUSE CHEFS If youEXPERIENCED had a particularly sparkly occasion recently and you are now looking for a stunning EXCLUSIVE HIRE AVAILABLE venue for your engagement party or wedding celebration, then ROSE let us GARDEN create the magic with ourDRINKS* USE OF THE CATHEDRAL FOR RECEPTION amazing wedding packages and special offers! *Additional charge applies

Are you looking for a venue that can be tailored to your individual requirements? Abacus Marquees provides high quality frame marquees, traditional pole marquees and have a wide range of furniture and accessories including black starcloth and Moroccan linings. If this sounds like a solution to your event, please give us a call or drop us an email and we will do our best to help you create the perfect occasion.

Your special occasion, tailor-made 01328 701331 | www.abacusmarquees.co.uk Chalk Farm, Druids Lane, Litcham, King’s Lynn PE32 2YA

THE ATHENAEUM ANGEL HILL • BURY ST EDMUNDS • IP33 1LU Steeped in •history and grace, The Athenaeum is a Tel:beautiful 01284 758Grade 380 • Email: enquiries.athenaeum.uk@sodexo.com I listed venue located on Angel Hill, in the very heart of historic Bury St Edmunds. Licensed for Weddings, Civil Ceremonies and Partnerships, it is /burystedmundsathenaeum @TheathenaeumBSE perfect for a truly memorable day.

We want you to enjoy our stunning, iconic venue and so for Summer 2019 only we are offering an exclusive chance to get married at The Athenaeum with an amazing discount on our inclusive Wedding Packages.

ONE OF THE MOST UNIQUE WEDDING VENUES IN SUFFOLK

A minimum of 80 guests is required to receive £10.00 off our Gold and Platinum packages, normally priced at £80.00 and £95.00 per person, thus saving your budget upwards of £800.00 - applicable for Weddings booked for June, July and August 2019.

Contact our Wedding Co-ordinator to discuss packages and prices for your special day.

Whatever your requirements, rest assured our experienced team can prepare the best package to suit all of your wishes.

Why not call us on 01284 758 380 and come for an informal show around

To see this stunning venue for yourself, join us at our wedding showcase event on Sunday, 3rd March from 1pm – 4pm alternatively, call our experienced Wedding Coordinator on 01638 713552 or email events@tuddenhammill.co.uk to book your private viewing of Tuddenham Mill.

The Athenaeum, Angel Hill, Bury St Edmunds IP33 1LU enquiries.athenaeum.uk@sodexo.com /burystedmundsathenaeum

@TheathenaeumBSE

www.athenaeumbse.co.uk

Tuddenham Mill, High Street, Tuddenham Nr Newmarket, Suffolk IP28 6SQ •01638 713552 www.tuddenhammill.co.uk • info@tuddenhammill.co.uk

Buy&Try

Add wow to your

Vows

With wedding proposals de rigueur this month, it ’s time to start planning the ceremony itself. Book early to secure one of these five fantastic venues for the biggest of all big days.

So, you’ve popped the question and

bought the engagement ring, now it’s time to start the search for the ultimate wedding venue. Assuming you are staying close to home, where are the most memorable venues for the biggest day of your life? Places&Faces picks five of the very best, from memorable manor houses to romantic woodland retreats.

THE READING ROOM

Few venues are surely as Instagrammable as The Reading Room – a beautifully restored venue that is ideal for intimate weddings.

With its leaded windows and soaring, vaulted ceilings, this is a magical building set in beautiful gardens, and just a short wedding march from a pretty rural church.

The Reading Room is licensed for weddings and civil partnership

ceremonies, located next to the ancient Church of St Ethelbert’s, and as a family-run venue is available for exclusive hire. There is seating for up to 80 guests and the helpful team can also suggest preferred-supplier caterers. A simply beautiful wedding venue.

The Reading Room, Alby, Norfolk.

Tel: 01263 761963

47

Buy&Try

HOCKWOLD HALL

Hockwold Hall is a spectacular Grade II listed manor that has an enviable position in Norfilk but near the borders of both Suffolk and Cambridgeshire. The beauty of this venue is the variety of function rooms and accommodation on offer, meaning that whatever your big day dreams, Hockwold Hall should have the solution. From garden marquee to more intimate banquet hall, a barn wedding or beautiful civil ceremony room, drinks receptions in the lounge or late-night nightcaps in the games room, you’ll find it all in this most stately of homes, complete with stunning gardens. The venue held a wedding fayre only last month where more than 100 select suppliers from the region were on hand to share their expertise – so you know that Hockwold Hall has all the contacts and ideas you might need to make your wedding wonderful.

Hockwood Hall Weddings, Brandon, Norfolk.

Tel: 01842 827365

HUSH

Be the envy of your friends and family by booking this incredible, unique woodland retreat now. Hush only handles a handful of weddings each year, so book ahead – like anything good, it’s worth waiting for. Hush is a blank canvas surrounded by rolling hills and comprising the Water Meadow, Elderwood and Colt’s Lodge. Why have a big day when you can have an awesome weekend, with Hush you and your guests can enjoy quality time together for three days as part of your wedding. The Olde Woodshed is a dedicated space licensed for marriages and civil partnerships, all set in the heart of the wood. Sit round the fire pit or hang out in the hammocks – the choice is yours. The converted farm cottages of Colts Lodge can house the bride and groom and close family, while other guests can enjoy a luxury glamping experience under the stars.

What could be more romantic?

Colts Lodge, Postwick, Norfolk.

Tel: 01603 340717

WOODHALL MANOR

Woodhall Manor in Suffolk promises ‘nothing short of the extraordinary’ and certainly seems to deliver. With a wide range of venue options – from the extensive to boutique – and on site catering courtesy of head chef Tom Plant, it’s a stylish onestop solution. For venues, how about the Dovecote, licensed for ceremonies up to 200 guests and situated within its own walled garden? Or The Ballroom for up to 130 (opening onto a terrace and rose garden) before nipping into the Blossom Bar for celebratory drinks and dancing? With a dedicated team on hand to deliver your ideal occasion, there’s lots to love about Woodhall Manor. Plus, you can also hire on a venueonly basis if you are looking for something more bespoke or on a budget.

Woodhall Manor, Woodbridge, Suffolk.

Tel: 01394 411288

CROW’S HALL

We challenge you to find a prettier manor house setting anywhere in the world than the exceptional Crow’s Hall Suffolk. Weddings can take advantage of exclusive access for up to seven days with the opportunity to stay in the sensitively restored 16th century Grade II* listed redbrick manor. Crow’s Hall is set in 400 acres of farm land, and garden rooms on its own moated island. The wedding couple has exclusive use of the Tudor barn with its outstanding acoustics, gardens and extensive grounds while a glamping area plays host to guests. Truly breathtaking, and a fitting backdrop to any wedding.

Crow’s Hall, Debenham, Suffolk.

Tel: 07860 921031

48

FOR LIFE’S GREAT OCCASIONS

Covering all aspects of marquee hire and event support all year round.

For a FREE quotation, telephone 01953 885151

www.weatherfield-marquees.co.uk

YOUR WEDDING OUR VENUE

WITH AN IMPRESSIVE COLLECTION OF ROOMS, GREAT YARMOUTH RACECOURSE GIVES YOU THE FLEXIBILITY AND SPACE TO CREATE YOUR OWN PERFECT WEDDING CEREMONY.

greatyarmouth-racecourse.co.uk

01493 842527

Valentine

Buy&Try

1

for him

Get the man in your life something special this year... here are a few ideas to inspire you

2 3 1. KRONABY

4

Apex 43mm gents hybrid Smartwatch £575 Bradley Hatch, Norwich www.bradleyhatch.com

2. UNIQUE & CO Stainless steel cufflinks set with mother of pearl £39 Bradley Hatch, Norwich www.bradleyhatch.com

5 Prices correct at the time of going to press. Items may be available from various retailers and prices may vary so please check online for a full list of local stockists

3. MONTBLANC Starwalker red gold plated Resin Ballpoint Pen £320 Jarrold, Norwich www.jarrold.co.uk

6. JOHN VARVATOS JVxNJ EDT 125ml £73 Jarrold, Norwich www.jarrold.co.uk

4. THE ENGLISH

WHISKY COMPANY The English - cabernet sauvignon cask £56 www.englishwhisky.co.uk

7. PREMIUM LAMBORGHINI TRACKDAY, NORFOLK Lamborghini Aventador from £1,495 www.trackdays.co.uk

5. DOSH RFID Luxe 6 card money clip wallet chilli - charcoal + maroon £62.50 www.doshbrand.com/uk

6

7

51

Tel: 01493 652 774 GORLESTON HIGH STREET GORLESTON ON SEA NORFOLK

HERS C U O V T GIF ABLE IN AVA I L R E S TO t for

Retro clothing for him or her from the 40S 50S and 60S

Perfec

ines

t Valen

VALENTINES SPECIALS Starters Pan-seared king & queen scallops, cauliflower purée, pork belly, scratching, black pudding mousse £10.95 Norfolk pork collar beignets, Bramley apple purée, pickled shallots & cider spheres £9.95 Mains ½ Norfolk lobster thermidor, cockle Béarnaise, 8oz prime Red Poll beef fillet, crisp beer-battered onion rings & celeriac slaw £57.95 (To Share) Pan-fried sea bream, crab arancini, crisp kelp, cockle ketchup £19.50 Dessert Sharing plate of sweets, brulée, doughnut, cookies & truffles £9.95 Norfolk Pippin & almond strudel, fudge ice cream £8.95

VALENTINES ROMANTIC STAY Make your valentines experience even more special with an overnight stay?

From just £165 per couple including accommodation, meal and breakfast.

Package rates include £30 food allocation per person.

available with a Harley Street trained professional

For a beautiful way to indulge yourself…

Beach Clinic is the place for Botox Injection. Dermal Filler Injections, Lips, Cheekbones, Cheek volume restoration and chin reshaping.

Rejuvenating Facials and Chemical peels.

Skin Tag and Thread vein removal.

Laser Lipo fat reduction and Laser stretchmarks treatment.

B E AC H C LI N I C

01485 512229 www.chequersinnthornham.com High Street, Thornham, Norfolk, PE36 6LY

Beach House, Beach Rd, Gorleston NR31 6BN Telephone: 01493 603102 / 07810 272640

www.beachclinic.co.uk

Buy&Try

Valentine for her

Show your beautiful lady you love her with one of these special gifts

1. NORFOLK & SUFFOLK

Prices correct at the time of going to press. Items may be available from various retailers and prices may vary so please check online for a full list of local stockists

1

HOT AIR BALLOON RIDES 4 hour experience with champagne from £99 per person www.virginballoonflights.co.uk

2

2. WINSOR BISHOP Blush 18ct rose gold, morganite and diamond pendant £5,925 www.winsorbishop.co.uk

3. DIAMOND

SOLITAIRE RING. 18ct white gold pear shape £1,425 Bradley Hatch, Norwich www.bradleyhatch.com

3 4

4. CITIZEN Ladies Eco-Drive bracelet watch featuring jewellery inspired bangle bracelet £179 Bradley Hatch, Norwich www.bradleyhatch.com 5. WINSOR BISHOP 18ct small drop ‘rosebud’ 2.58ct diamond Earrings £5,385 www.winsorbishop.co.uk

5

6

6. MAISON MICALLEF

7

Jacaranda Eau de Parfum 50ml £475 Jarrold, Norwich www.jarrold.co.uk 7. IRREGULAR CHOICE Meile £119 1 Guildhall Hill, Norwich www.irregularchoice.com 53

E N G A G E M E N T R I N G S S TA R T I N G F R O M ÂŁ 8 5 0 0%APR Finance available 39-43 London Street, Norwich NR2 1HU - 01603 620638 enquiries@winsorbishop.co.uk - winsorbishop.co.uk

Buy&Try

Valentine

6

Looking for something special to treat yourself or a loved one to on Valentine’s Day? Donna Titcombe selects this gorgeous lingerie for the most romantic date in the diary.

1

Prices correct at the time of going to press. Items may be available from various retailers and prices may vary so please check online for a full list of local stockists

2

5

3

1. DEBENHAMS No 1 Jenny Packham Kimono £60 2. POUR MOI Amour Accent Strapless Lightly Padded Basque Black Pink £40

3. BLUEBELLA Caterina Basque £38

5. M&S Rosie For Autograph Bra £27.50 Knicker £12.50

6. DORINA

4

Black Adele Curve Slip Dress £24

4. AUBADE Floral Hold-ups £36

55

Helhoughton Road, Hempton, Fakenham NR21 7DY Tel: 01328 864743 or 855321 Email: sales@norfolkreclaim.co.uk www.norfolkreclaim.co.uk

Harrison Spinks brand identity guidelines

THE MASTER LOGO

THE LOGO SIZE

+45MM

THE LOGO SAFEZONE

WINTER SALE NOW ON

The Harrison Spinks master logo has been specifically adjusted width or less. The crest has been scaled up by 150% to ensure ma utilised for any logo usage at 45mm or less.

THE LOGO - COLOURS

The Number One Choice for Beds & Advice Massive savings & big brand special offers Choose from a superb selection of divan-sets & mattresses, fabric upholstered bases & headboards, wooden & metal bedframes all from classic traditional to the latest contemporary styles Disposal service available and free delivery

THE Come and visit the bed experts today at:

L O G O - H O R I Z O N TA L

Curtis Road, Norwich NR6 6RB Tel: 01603 483636 A horizontal Harrison Spinks logo has been created to help assi 22 Ber Street, Norwich, NR1 3EJ Tel: 01603 768260 be used when the Harrison Spinks master logo is unable to fit in T H E C O L O U R PA L E T T E Cowper Road, Dereham, Norfolk NR19 2DA Tel: 01362 690498 Greyfriars Road, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk, IP32 7DX Tel: 01284 723723 P R I M A RY CWestern O L O U R S Way, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk, IP33 3SP Tel: 01284 247090

Buy&Try

Feel Fabulous

1

Look your best on valentine’s night with this range of beautiful make up selected

by Donna Titcombe

Prices correct at the time of going to press. Items may be available from various retailers and prices may vary so please check online for a full list of local stockists

2

3

4 1. CHANEL Rouge Allure Velvet Exclusive Creation Le Rouge Velours £32

5

2. ESTEE LAUDER Sumptuous Extreme Mascara £23

3. TOO FACED Love Flush long-lasting 16-hour blush £25

4. BOBBI BROWN Long Wear Gel Eyeliner 1arge £2O

5. URBAN DECAY

Naked Palette £35.55 57

I F Y O U TA K E A T E S T D R I V E B Y 2 8 T H F E B R U A R Y V KE E YAOTUE S£T5 D 0R0I VCE UBSYT2O8 M E RF ESB A IN IFW YE O UG TI A TH RV UA RG Y * F O Y TYAH KE E RA T0EE D RT IFVO TVHI NF G E* BRUARY WI E GO I VUEE T O U £ 5W 0S TG CU T G OS UEMRBETYRH2SE8AR E EGTI H VE 0 0F U CR UT SH TO MER SAVING* TW OG E RY OWUE £G5 O ER

0% APR 0% APR

TOGETHER WE GO FURTHER

0% APR

R E P R E S E N TAT I V E

R EO P RNE SF EONRT D ATO I VPE T I O N S ON FORD OPTIONS R E P R E S E N TAT I V E OFNO R F OM RO D ROEP ITNI F OO NR S M AT I O N V I S I T U S AT P E R T W E E & B A C K - G R E AT YA R M O U T H F O R M O R E I N F O R M AT I O N V I S I T U S AT P E R T W E E & B A C K - G R E AT YA R M O U T H F O R M O R E I N F O R M AT I O N V I S I T U S AT P E R T W E E & B A C K - G R E AT YA R M O U T H

Pertwee & Back - Great Yarmouth Pertwee & Back - Great Yarmouth

Gapton Hall Road Pertwee & Back - Great Yarmouth Gapton Hall Road Great Yarmouth, NR31 0NJ Great Yarmouth, NR31 0NJ Gapton Hall Road Tel. 01493 664151 Great Yarmouth, NR31 0NJ Tel. 01493 664151 www.pertwee-and-back.co.uk Tel. 01493 664151 www.pertwee-and-back.co.uk *AVAILABLE ON THE SUV AND CROSSOVER RANGE, INCLUDING KA+ ACTIVE, FIESTA ACTIVE, ECOSPORT ST-LINE AND KUGA ST-LINE. KA+ ACTIVE ONLY AVAILABLE www.pertwee-and-back.co.uk ON*AVAILABLE 2 YEAR 0% APR ONFORD THEOPTIONS. SUV AND CROSSOVER RANGE, INCLUDING KA+ ACTIVE, FIESTA ACTIVE, ECOSPORT ST-LINE AND KUGA ST-LINE. KA+ ACT

*AVAILABLE THE1.2SUV RANGE,Mpg INCLUDING ACTIVE,43.5 FIESTA ECOSPORT ST-LINE AND 1.5 KUGA KA+ FWD. ACTIVE AVAILABLE Models shown: KA+ON Active 85PSAND PetrolCROSSOVER Manual. Fuel economy (l/100km)KA+ (Combined): (6.5). ACTIVE, *CO 2 emissions: 129g/km.

Kuga ST-Line 120PSST-LINE. Diesel Manual FuelONLY economy Mpg (l/100km) ON2 2YEAR YEAR 0% FORD OPTIONS. ON APR FORD OPTIONS. emissions: 137g/km.

EcoSport ST-Line 1.0L 100PS Petrol Manual.

Fuel economy Mpg (l/100km) (Combined): 43.5 (6.5). *CO emissions: 120g/km.

Fiesta Active X 1 5 Door (Combined): 45.6 0% (6.2). *COAPR 2 2 KA+ KA+ Active 1.2 economy 85PS1.2Petrol Manual.

Fuel economy Mpgeconomy (l/100km) (Combined): 43.5 (6.5). *CO 2 emissions: Kugaemissions: ST-Line 1.5 120PS Diesel Manual FWD. Fuel1.5economy (l/100km) Models shown: Active 85PS Petrol Manual.

Fuel (Combined): 43.5 129g/km.

(6.5). *CO 129g/km.

Kuga ST-Line 120PS Mpg Diesel Manual FWD. Fu emissions: 113g/km.

1.0TModels 100PS shown: Petrol Manual.

Fuel Mpg (l/100km) (Combined): 47.1 (6.0).Mpg *CO(l/100km) 2 2 emissions: 137g/km.

EcoSport ST-Line 1.0L 100PS Petrol Manual.

Fuel economy Mpg (l/100km) (Combined): 43.5 (6.5). *CO emissions: 120g/km.

Fiesta Active Xupon 1 5 Door (Combined): 45.6 (6.2). *CO Figures shown are for comparability purposes; only compare fuel consumption and CO figures with other cars tested to the same technical procedures.

These figures may not reflect real life driving results, which will depend a number (Combined): 45.6 (6.2).2 *CO 2 emissions: 137g/km. EcoSport 2 ST-Line 1.0L 100PS Petrol Manual. Fuel economy Mpg (l/100km) 2(Combined): 43.5 (6.5). *CO emissions: 120g/k 113g/km.

1.0T 100PS Petrol Manual. Fuel (l/100km) 47.1 (6.0). *CO 2 isemissions: of factors including the accessories fitted,economy variationsMpg in weather, driving(Combined): styles and vehicle load. *There a new test used for fuel consumption and CO2 figures. The CO2 figures shown however, are based on the outgoing test2cycle and will be

emissions: 113g/km.

1.0T 100PS Manual.

Fuel Finance economy Mpg (l/100km) (Combined): 47.1 shownvehicle arePetrol fortax comparability purposes; only compare fuel and Ford CO figures with other cars(6.0). tested to*CO the same technical procedures.

These figures may not reflect real life driving results, which will depend upon a number usedFigures to calculate on first registration. subject toconsumption status. Freepost 2 Credit. *£500 Customer Saving (inc2 VAT) off the Recommended On The Road price of any Ford KA+ Active, Fiesta Active, EcoSport ST-Line or Kuga STFigures shown are for comparability purposes; only compare fuel consumption and CO figures with other cars tested to CO the2 figures. same technical procedures.

These not reflect real and life will driving of factors including the accessories fitted, variations in weather, driving styles and vehicle load. *There is a new test used for fuel consumption The CO2 figures shown however, based onmay the outgoing test cycle be results, w Line. Test Drive to be taken by 28th February 2019, vehicle contracted and registered between 1st February and Advantage) and eligible Fleet customers only.arefigures 2 28th February 2019. Retail (excland used toBack calculate vehicle tax first registration. subject in to& status.

Freepost Fordstyles Credit. *£500 Customer (inctoVAT) the Recommended On The Road price of any Active,The FiestaCOActive, EcoSport ST-Line or Kugaare ST- based on th of &factors including theonaccessories variations weather, driving vehicle load. *There isfinance aoff new test used for afuel consumption andFord CO2KA+ figures. figures shown however, Pertwee only offers finance products fromfitted, FordFinance Credit.

Pertwee Back - Great Yarmouth acts asand a credit broker inSaving relation products, and not lender.

2 Line. to be taken by 28th vehicle contracted registered between Freepost 1st FebruaryFord and Credit.

28th February Retail (excl Advantage) and eligible customers only.On The Road price of any Ford KA+ Active, Fiesta Act usedTesttoDrive calculate vehicle tax February on first 2019, registration.

Financeandsubject to status. *£5002019.

Customer Saving (inc VAT) off theFleet Recommended Pertwee & Back only offers finance products from Ford Credit. Pertwee & Back - Great Yarmouth acts as a credit broker in relation to finance products, and not a lender.

Line. Test Drive to be taken by 28th February 2019, vehicle contracted and registered between 1st February and 28th February 2019. Retail (excl Advantage) and eligible Fleet customers only.

Pertwee & Back only offers finance products from Ford Credit. Pertwee & Back - Great Yarmouth acts as a credit broker in relation to finance products, and not a lender.

RISE ABOVE THE CROWD

4.1% APR *

REPRESENTATIVE MAZDA PERSONAL CONTRACT PURCHASE

2019 MAZDA CX-5

MAZDA CX-3

£1,000 MAZDA DEPOSIT CONTRIBUTION

£1,500 MAZDA DEPOSIT CONTRIBUTION Book a test drive° today, visit www.wrights-mazda.co.uk WRIGHTS MAZDA – Norwich 101 Cromer Road, Norwich, Norfolk NR6 6XW Tel: 01603 427011

WRIGHTS MAZDA – Beccles Common Lane North, Beccles, Suffolk NR34 9BL Tel: 01502 713885

The official fuel consumption figures in mpg (l/100km) for the Mazda Range: Combined 34.9 (8.1) - 55.4 (5.1)^. CO2 emissions (g/km) 160 - 111^.

Figures shown are for comparability purposes; only compare fuel consumption and CO2 figures with other cars tested to the same technical procedures. These figures may not reflect real life driving results, which will depend upon a number of factors including the accessories fitted (post-registration), variations in weather, driving styles and vehicle load. ^There is a new test used for fuel consumption and CO2 figures. The CO2 figures shown however, are based on the outgoing test cycle and will be used to calculate vehicle tax on first registration.

Retail sales only, subject to availability for vehicles registered between 18.12.18 and 31.03.19 at participating dealers. T&C apply. *4.1% APR Mazda Personal Contract Purchase available on all new Mazda models. Finance subject to status, 18s or over. Guarantee may be required. Mazda Financial Services RH1 1SR. Models shown: 2019 Mazda CX-5 150ps 2WD Sport Nav+ Diesel, OTR from £29, 895. Model shown features optional Soul Red Crystal Metallic paint (£800) and Mazda CX-3 121ps 2WD Sport Nav+, OTR from £21,695. Model shown features optional Ceramic Metallic paint (£550). OTR price includes VAT, number plates, delivery, 12 months’ road fund licence, first registration fee, 3 year or 60,000 mile warranty and 3 years’ European Roadside Assistance. °Test drives subject to applicant status and availability. Details correct at time of going to print. Not available in conjunction with any other offer unless specified. Wrights Motor Ltd, trading as Wrights Mazda is a credit broker not a lender for this financial promotion. We can introduce you to a limited number of carefully selected finance providers and may receive a commission from them for the introduction.

KODIAQ COOL

The Škoda Kodiaq, a large 4.70 metre long

SUV boasting up to seven seats and one of the largest luggage compartments in its class, provides oodles of space even for the most demanding families. The Kodiaq also catches the eye thanks to its distinctive design, comfortable ride, high ground clearance combined with intelligent 4×4 drive, sheer practicality underpinned by a raft of nifty Simply Clever solutions, and wide range of safety and comfort features, including innovative technologies and drive assists that until recently were the preserve of higher-end cars. For those who love to cloak themselves in luxury, the supreme Laurin & Klement trim level is also available.

KEY FACTS Design: With its specific use of crystalline design, the Kodiaq has defined the new Škoda SUV stylistic language. The Kodiaq comes across as robust and confident off the road, yet also has ample elegance for city life – it’s the right SUV for every occasion.

VOLVO XC40 The Volvo XC40 is Volvo’s new small premium SUV and the first ever Volvo model to win the prestigious European Car of the Year award. Together with the larger XC60 and XC90, it completes Volvo’s global line-up of premium SUVs.

7 seats: The Kodiaq is a true family car offering enough space for up to seven occupants. The third row of seats is easy to fold under the boot floor if you need more luggage space.

Parking made easy: The Area View panoramic 360° camera system is a practical add-on to the parking sensors and Park Assist, so parking the Kodiaq will be child’s play even in the tightest of parking spaces. You can also use Area View when driving the car in challenging terrain.

Let’s go off-road: The intelligent 4×4 drive and useful off-road mode, adapting the driving stability system settings to off-road driving, make the Kodiaq an adventurer off the asphalt.

Parking with a trailer: This useful drive assist will help you to reverse with a trailer or caravan – just select the direction you require with the joystick, and the electronics take care of all the driving for you. You’ll never have to worry about parking with a trailer ever again.

ENJOY THE DRIVE WITH THE MX-5

Buy&Try

New & noteworthy

FORD FOCUS Introducing a new human-centric design philosophy that fuses emotional exterior styling with class-leading aerodynamics; and delivers an interior that offers more space, combined with high quality materials and craftsmanship.

Mazda has upgraded its award-winning sports car with both convertible and RF versions of the MX-5 benefiting from enhanced dynamic performance, increased safety equipment and cabin refinements. The 2019 Mazda MX-5 has been carefully revised to ensure it‘s more exciting and engaging to drive than ever before.

The revised 2019 Mazda MX-5 range priced from £18,995 to £29,195.

JAGUAR I-PACE Is this the electric vehicle drivers have been waiting for? Clean, smart and safe, the I-PACE delivers sustainable sports car performance, next-generation artificial intelligence technology and five-seat SUV practicality...

Buy&Try

Kadjar The Kadjar is Renault’s trendy contribution to the popular SUV range - and now there’s a brand new version about to hit the showrooms, says David Wakefield

Renault’s good-looking new Kadjar

SUV hits the market early in the new year with a more contemporary design and a stronger visual identity. With prices starting at £20,595 on the road, orders are now being taken with deliveries beginning in February.

For the first time the Kadjar range is now integrated into Renault’s EasyLife trim lineup, made up of four versions, a reduction from five in the previous generation model.

In addition to the now-familiar Play, Iconic and GT Line trims there is a new model, the S-Edition. This style-focused trim sits between Iconic and GT Line and brings features such as striking interior upholstery unique to this model, as well as redesigned LED headlights, a rear-view camera and a panoramic sunroof - features shared with the flagship GT Line version.

The new Kadjar has a four-strong engine line-up: The new TCe 140 and TCe 160 4-cylinder petrol engines meet the highest standards in performance and drivability, while the new Blue dCi diesel engine, in 115hp and 150hp forms, gains enhanced power whilst offering effective technology that cuts emissions of engine pollutants.

The TCe 140 and dCi 115 power units are available with a choice of a six-speed manual or a seven-speed EDC automatic gearbox, while the TCe 160 is available with a manual gearbox. At a later date, the dCi 150 engine will be available, exclusively in manual gearbox configuration, and with a choice of

60

two-wheel or four-wheel drive.

The car features a long list of standard equipment including a seven-inch infotainment touchscreen, LED daytime running lights, rear parking sensors, automatic lights and wipers, and front fog lights on every model.

The exterior design was a pivotal reason why more than 450,000 people around the world have purchased a Kadjar. The new version has improved styling, with lines that are more fluid and elegant, with revised front and rear ends.

The S-Edition and GT Line models have all-new LED lights at the front with a development of Renault’s C-shape light signature. Indicators are integrated into the daytime running lights and the fog lights also incorporate LED technology. The energy consumption of these lights is six times lower than equivalent halogen units. At the rear the indicators also gain LEDs, as do the reversing lights and fog lights, which are now slimmer and are built into the bumper for a more elegant finish.

The cabin features a more contemporary design and improvements in perceived quality. A new control system for the air conditioning features a more modern and ergonomic design with the temperature and ventilation settings displayed in the centre of three thumbwheels for a clear and intuitive user experience. The new control functions for the electric windows and mirrors have been completely reworked, with backlighting for easier use at night.

In addition, there are three new colours: Oural Green and Highland Grey and, on the S-Edition and GT Line models, Iron Blue.

The new entry model, the Play, has a great range of standard equipment, including 17-inch alloy wheels and tinted windows - which complement the LED daytime running lights and the front fog lights to give the car a high-spec external appearance.

The headlights are automatic, as are the windscreen wipers. Rear parking sensors make manoeuvring easy.

A highlight of the interior is the seveninch colour infotainment touchscreen with capacitive technology, which means it is more sensitive to the driver or passenger’s touch. The driver or passengers’ smartphone can be seamlessly connected to the New Kadjar via Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.

Standard equipment includes cruise

control and a speed limiter to take the stress out of longer journeys. Driving comfort is enhanced with automatic climate control and a synthetic leather steering wheel. An electronic parking brake, larger cupholders, a sliding armrest and ambient lighting ensure a more luxurious experience than ever before.

The Iconic builds on the tech-heavy specification of the Play model and includes TomTom® LIVE navigation with Western European mapping and DAB digital radio.

This is part of the R-LINK2 infotainment system and includes Bluetooth® audio streaming and hands-free calls, voice control, and a range of vehicle-focused applications.

The Iconic features both front and rear parking sensors, with a reversing camera to further assist manoeuvring. Folding door mirrors are an added convenience, as is the hands free keycard for automatic door locking and unlocking. On the road technology comes in the form of a lane departure warning that enhances the safety of the New Kadjar.

Other standard kit ncludes 19 inch alloy wheels, extra tinted windows plus a sharkfin DAB radio antenna and roof bars. New rear air vents provide greater comfort to rear seat passengers, as does the provision of two rear USB sockets.

The S-Edition is a new trim and features all equipment on the Iconic, plus unique interior upholstery with blue stitching.

On the inside, the car is equipped with a panoramic sunroof.

The top of the range GT Line has items such as full leather seats which are heated, parking camera, and blind spot warning system.

The 4WD transmission on New Kadjar is available with three different operating modes, selected using a thumb wheel on the centre console. With a ground clearance of 200mm the car is well suited to off-road driving.

Fact File: New Renault Kadjar Play TCe 140 Price: £20595 Top speed: 126 mph Acceleration (0-62): 10.4 seconds Economy: 47.9 overall Emissions: 134 g/km

Test drive the Volvo XC40 at M.R. King & Sons

Every feature of the XC40 is there to make your life less complicated and your journey more enjoyable. The intuitive touchscreen and voice controls seamlessly connects you to your car. The latest safety innovations – including Lane Keeping Aid, Driver Alert and City Safety collision avoidance assistance – put you and your passengers first. And the Volvo On Call app with remote engine start heats and defrosts your car so you can begin the journey in comfort.

From

£299 per month* on Personal Contract Hire

The XC40 T3 Momentum Initial Rental £4,995 36-month agreement 10,000 miles per annum Excess mileage charges apply

BOOK YOUR TEST DRIVE TODAY

M. R. King & Sons

46 Quay Street Halesworth, IP19 8EY volvocarshalesworth.co.uk 01986 874464

Official fuel consumption for the XC40 range, in MPG (l/100km): WLTP Low 22.8 – 45.6 (12.4 – 6.2), WLTP Medium 31.7 – 51.4 (8.9 – 5.5), WLTP High 36.7 – 61.4 (7.7 – 4.6), WLTP Extra High 31.0 – 47.9 (9.1 – 5.9), WLTP Combined 31.0 – 51.4 (9.1 – 5.5). NEDC CO2 emissions 168 – 127g/km. Fuel consumption figures are obtained from laboratory testing intended for comparisons between vehicles and may not reflect real driving results. *T&Cs apply. Contract hire provided by Santander Consumer (UK) PLC trading as Volvo Car Financial Services, RH1 1SR. 18s & over, subject to status. You will not own the vehicle and it must be returned in good condition to avoid further charges. Excess mileage will be charged at 7.56p per mile for the first 5,000 excess miles. After 5,000 excess miles, excess mileage will be charged at 10.08p per mile. Subject to availability at participating retailers on orders received between 01/01/2019 - 31/03/2019. Guarantee may be required. Not available with other promotions.

M.R. King & Sons Ltd, trading as M.R. King & Sons are a credit broker not a lender for this financial promotion. We can introduce you to a limited number of carefully selected finance providers and may receive a commission from them for the introduction.

1

1/11/2019 9:58:46 AM

ALSO AVAILABLE IN CONJUNCTION WITH OUR KAROQ FINANCE OFFER

Up to £1,950 Towards your finance deposit†

+

6.9% APR Representative*

+

2 SERVICES Included^

+

3 YEARS Roadside assistance

DRIVEN BY SOMETHING DIFFERENT

Simpsons ŠKODA Great Yarmouth Suffolk Road, Great Yarmouth, Norfolk NR31 0LN

01493 601696

www.simpsonsskoda.com

Images are for illustrative purposes only. Model shown is not UK specification and may include features or options that are not available in the UK. Simpsons Garage (Gt. Yarmouth) Ltd is a broker and not a lender and can introduce you to a limited number of lenders, who may pay us for introducing you to them. *At the end of the agreement there are three options: i) pay the optional final payment and own the vehicle; ii) return the vehicle: subject to excess mileage and fair wear and tear, charges may apply; or iii) replace: part exchange the vehicle. With Solutions Personal Contract Plan. 18s+. Subject to availability & status. T&Cs apply. Offers available when ordered by 31 March 2019 from participating retailers. Excludes SE Technology. Excludes Channel Islands and Isle of Man. †KAROQ petrol engines receive £1,450 deposit contribution and KAROQ diesel engines receive £1,950. Indemnities may be required. ^Service plan covers first two consecutive services limited to 1 x Oil and 1 x Oil and Inspection service. Offers are not available in conjunction with any other offer and may be varied or withdrawn at any time. Accurate at time of publication. Freepost ŠKODA Financial Services.

Official fuel consumption WLTP for the ŠKODA KAROQ range in mpg (litres/100km): Combined 50.4 (5.6) - 32.8 (8.6). NEDC equivalent CO2 combined emissions for the ŠKODA KAROQ range are 149 to 134 g/km.

Figures shown are for comparability purposes; only compare fuel consumption and CO2 figures with other vehicles tested to the same technical procedures. These figures may not reflect real life driving results, which will depend upon a number of factors including the accessories fitted (post-registration), variations in weather, driving styles and vehicle load. There is a new test used for fuel consumption and CO2 figures (known as WLTP). The CO2 figures shown however, are based on a calculation designed to be equivalent to the outgoing (NEDC) test cycle and will be used to calculate vehicle tax on first registration. For more information, please see www.skoda.co.uk/owners/wltp-info or consult your retailer. Data correct at December 2018. Figures quoted are for a range of configurations (including non-UK) and are subject to change due to ongoing approvals/changes. Please contact your retailer for further information. For fuel consumption data based on the outgoing test cycle (NEDC equivalent data), which is the ‘official’ UK fuel consumption data until 31 December 2018, please consult your retailer.

PROMOTION

Gooch Accident Repair Centre Ltd

one of the leading Accident Repair Centers in East Anglia who will advise you on the best course of action to take when damage to your vehicle has occurred.

Jason Harewood

www.accidentrepairlowestoft.co.uk

Jason began his apprenticeship at

the age of 16 at Pertwee and Back in Great Yarmouth back in 1987 where his love for cars began. After completing his training he soon realised that this would be a career he wanted to pursue and be the best at.

Fast forward 16 years later and he joined the team at Gooch Motors as Bodyshop Manager where he was key in building on the reputation already achieved. Four years later the opportunity to buy the business was on the cards and without hesitation Jason took on the new role.

Since 2003 the business has grown from strength to strength and are now considered

62

What do you like about living in Suffolk?

The beautiful Coast and Beaches we have allow me the luxury to relax on my weekends and walk along the beach that are 30 seconds from home.

How does Gooch Accident Repair make a difference to peoples lives?

Trust is paramount, allowing everyone to feel comfortable that we will honestly appraise their repair and give them the right advice of how to proceed.

How is Gooch contributing to the growth of the region?

We work closely with young adults who want to learn a trade which will then become a Career offering apprenticeships with support from their school/college. I also host a monthly breakfast networking group with Rachel Flatt from Lovewell Blake at the Ivy House Country Hotel

where we showcase our own services and offer support to other businesses. Chatting over breakfast with like minded people is a great way to start the day.

Tell us something that people don’t know about you?

Recently I have taken the opportunity to assist a new business a Mixed Martial Arts Gym in Lowestoft called Ruckus MMA, where I teach a Fit to Fight/Self Defence class having achieved a 2nd Dan Black belt in Hap Ki Do In, I’m proud to continue and pass on my knowledge which I’ve acquired over the last 30 years.

What is your proudest achievement?

The continuing success at Gooch Accident where many others in the sector have failed.

Run us through a typical day with you (if there is one)...

There are no typical days in the business every day is different, which makes it easy to get up knowing I will be helping people at a time where they may feel the most vulnerable.

Buy&Try

Accident Repairs Whether your vehicle has a minor dent or major accident damage, our team is experienced in all aspects of accident repairs.

We only use genuine parts to ensure the highest quality repairs. You can rely on our trained technicians to repair and restore all makes and models of cars. When you choose us, you can be assured that we will complete all repair work to a very high standard.

Cosmetic Car Repair Which are out of this world , from all types of small repairs from Bumpers, Mirrors, Alloy Wheels and Interiors. These repairs can be carried out at a fraction of bodyshop costs.

Specialist Non Fault

What do you like to do when you’re not working?

Which isn’t very often I might add, however I have a collection of Lambretta’s that I tinker with along with climbing on the John Deer to tame the garden. Walking with my better half Samantha and the dogs along the beach or the woods are cherished moments.

Northern Soul music has and is a big part of my life and you will often see me cutting some moves on the dance floor. Donning my Chefs hat and cooking is something I’ve recently started to enjoy more.

Where do you see the business in 5 years?

Continued success with quality service, honesty and integrity that gives confidence to our customers.

5 words to sum up Gooch...

Trustworthy, Honest, Reliable, Friendly and Quality.

5 words to sum up yourself...

Funny, Healthy, Honest, Trustworthy, Chef

Has your car suffered damage which was not your fault, at Gooch Accident Repair Centre our non fault accident repairs experts will take the stress and worry out of what can be a stressful time for you.

Bring your vehicle in for a FREE estimate where you can choose how to process your claim.

Paintless Dent Removal

A garage you can trust

A paintless dent removal can eliminate dents, dings and creases from your car without using paints and fillers and will restore your car to the original factory finish.

With more than 40 years of experience in the industry, we work with all car manufacturers, guaranteeing an excellent level of service on every project we carry out. We can carry out full insurance work and professional vehicle repairs. As an approved vehicle body repairer, you can depend on us to handle all makes including Land Rover, Lotus, Maserati, Rolls-Royce, Porsche, Mercedes and Nissan. We use the latest technology and equipment for all of our accident repairs.

Gooch Accident Repair Centre Ltd, Mill Rd, Lowestoft NR33 0PP 01502 531 660 www.accidentrepairlowestoft.co.uk @GoochAccidentRepair

New for 2019 !!!!

You’ve heard of drive through McDonalds and now drive through Costa Coffee ect ect so we have decided to do the same.

Yes thats correct just drive on up and we estimate your vehicle, giving you the costs of repair straight away (pending parts prices) and then help you decide which would be the best course of action, paying for it yourself or claim through your insurance.

Alloygators Working closely with strategic partners, AlloyGator™ has developed a tried and tested, cost effective and durable alloy wheel protection system which vastly reduces the risk of wheel damage.

SPRING THE TIME OF CHANGE LET US INSPIRE YOU...

DESIGNS FOR LIVING

Book your ‘no obligation’ consultation today...

Follow us on Facebook.

HANDMADE

IN NORFOLK

Start planning your new project today and book your no obligation consultation, or visit us at: Station Business Park, Horning Road West, Hoveton, Norwich, Norfolk NR12 8QJ, England. T: 01603 781771 E: info@ebsfurniture.co.uk

See more of our beautiful interiors at: www.batesfurniture.co.uk

&

House Home HOUSE

The Australian homewares retailer House opened it’s sixth UK store last summer in intu Chapelfield and is one of our favourite places to kit out the kitchen. House is passionate about cooking, dining and entertaining with an ambition to become the ‘go-to’ destination for people who share this passion.

SMEG PINK 50S STYLE STAND MIXER A stylish and practical mixer that will help you make delicious baked goodies and desserts with ease and efficiency. Smeg has combined retro old world styling with new world technology. £350 House, intu Chapelfield, Norwich www.houseuk.com

& 65

pretty in

Pink Millennial

Hayley & Jennifer are homeware buyers

Jarrold, 1-11 London Street, Norwich, NR2 1AL www.jarrold.co.uk The Granary, 5 Bedford Street, Norwich, NR2 1AL www.thegranary.co.uk

The Millennial pink that has been trending for a few years now is still making its presence felt in the world of interiors this year, and February is a great time to embrace this romantic hue, says Jarrold home buyers Hayley Philpot and Jennifer Dwyer.

The world of interior fashion is still swooning over Millennial pink. In fact this pale pinky hue has become a timeless colour as it provides a contemporary neutral which looks good with a pop of brights, modern grey and even the continuing trend for green. Even metallics have got in on the act with rose gold and copper still a contemporary look for homes.

As February is the month of love, it feels fitting to revisit this look. There are many ways in which you can add Millennnial pink to your home – make a statement with a pink sofa or chair, add accents with pink dining plates/ plant pots/accessories and/or add a touch of bling with rose gold.

Here are just some of the pieces we have at Jarrold, floor 2 and The Granary to help you get this look in your home.

Each piece really gets your home ready for spring.

66

PARLANE Burford Terra Beige Large Planter, £29.95 Jarrold, Floor 2.

MALINI Charlotte Cushion, RRP £32 Jarrold, Floor 2.

PARLANE Rose Spray, £7 Jarrold, Floor 2.

House&Home

FLORENCE Extra Large Sofa, RRP £1,441 The Granary.

WILD & WOLF Copper Phone, £65 The Granary.

CATH KIDSTON Mews Dot Glass Dish, RRP £8 Jarrold, Floor 2.

67

Don’t compromise, go composite We supply top quality products for all your horses needs:

Feed, Stable Equipment, Bedding, Licks & Treats, Hay & Straw, Show Jumps, Tools, Haylage, Supplements, Wormers, Fly Sprays, Stable Matting, Electric Fencing plus much more

• A front door speaks volumes about a property • 25 different designs to choose from • Thirteen door colours • Multiple glass designs • Thermal Efficient • Secured by design

UPVC Windows, Doors, Fascia, Conservatories, Soffits, Guttering

MONDAY-FRIDAY 8.30pm to 5.00pm SATURDAY 8.30pm to 12.30pm

For your FREE no obligation quotation

01328 851 351

01263 512911

Clipbush Business Park, Hawthorn Way, Fakenham, Norfolk, NR21 8SX

gjlanimalfeeds.co.uk

NORTHNORFOLKPLASTICS@GMAIL.COM

Unit 1A Middlebrook Way, Cromer, NR27 9JR North Norfolk Plastics Ltd

House&Home

PROMOTION

s u o l u b a ffabric

T h i s m o n t h o u r r e s i d e n t i n t e r i o r d e s i g n e x p e r t Ju l i e H a n d f o r t h – D o i d g e v i s i t s Clarke & Clarke who are one of the largest suppliers of luxury fabrics, accessories and wall coverings used by interior designers.

CLARKE & CLARKE

is a family business founded in 1999 whom distribute their products to interior designers such as ourselves in over 90 countries. The firm designs and distributes luxury interior fabrics and wall coverings sold under the brands Clarke & Clarke and Studio G. The company is renowned for their vibrancy within their designs often incorporating birds of paradise, passion flowers and exotic island life. The fabrics include prints, jacquard weaves, plains, embroideries, velvets, silks and cushions.

Head office is located in Haslingden, Lancashire and incorporates over 7,000m2 of warehouse space and houses fully automated technology, ensuring high quality standards, efficiency and supreme standards of service. The site comprises integrated modern offices and a brand-new showroom which showcases its comprehensive range of furnishing fabrics, wallpapers, cushions, readymade curtains and bedding. Based in a converted old church in Cheshire, the design studio is home to our talented team of designers, surrounded by walls decorated with art, mood boards, travel pictures and fashion photography providing the inspiration for collections.

The company markets its products under two brands; Clarke & Clarke, which is transitional in style, targets the mid to upper end of the interiors sector and brings inspirational design from the catwalk to the home.

Studio G, launched in 2016, is aimed at the mid sector of the market; lively, fashionable and accessible, appealing to aspirational and fashion aware consumers. Collections are launched twice a year under both brands, Spring/Summer & Autumn/Winter From classic to contemporary in style, Clarke & Clarke is internationally recognized as one of the leaders in the world of home fashion.

Clarke & Clarke is internationally recognised as one of the leaders in the world of home fashion. With a variety of classic, as well as contemporary fabrics and wallpapers, Innovative design and worldwide distribution of beautiful furnishing fabrics, wallpapers and cushions the Clarke & Clarke fabric collections are easy-to-use and will suit any home perfectly.

In my last column I talked about being bold and brave with colours and fabrics so looking at the range of fabrics and wall coverings from the Clarke & Clarke range is a great place to start

if you are looking at making changes to your home in 2019.

Here at JHD Interiors we have a large range of stunning Clarke & Clarke fabrics that will compliment any room in your home, from boldly striped designs which are perfect for contemporary decors, to gorgeous floral fabrics that are a great choice for traditional and classical interiors.

If you would like some expert advice you could always pop down to see the JHD Interiors showroom.

Julie Handforth Doidge

Proprietor / Interior designer at JHD Interiors in Norwich 01603 722 385 www.jhd-interiors.co.uk 69

een r G od t

Wo ng abou k s A y t hi pet an ga n i n ow

We offer free pet advice We can help you: find your perfect pet care for your pet improve your relationship with your pet.

Call 0300 303 9333 or visit woodgreen.org.uk #askwoodgreen

Wood Green – bringing pets and people closer together Wood Green, The Animals Charity, Registered Charity No. 298348

00423ks0119

Ask Wood Green Dog Ad Places and Faces Magazine 190 x 136mm.indd 1

15/01/2019 15:41

House&Home

Caring for your pets It is said that “Man brought animals in from the cold”, and that their domestication succeeds in providing humankind with companionship, devotion and loyalty. With 45% of us sharing the family home with our pets, and with 26% of UK households taking pride of canine ownership, our tail-wagging, four-legged friends have a proud history as “man’s best friend” at the very heart of family-life As a result, the humanisation of petownership has never been stronger, and the opportunities to reward and pamper our companions at their greatest. From grooming to feeding, exercise and leisure, new product innovations and experiences have unlocked a treasure-trove of treats and services to enjoy in the company of our pets, and where better to start exploring than in the delights of our own scenic counties of Norfolk and Suffolk?

Renowned for breath-taking beauty and tranquillity, Norfolk is credited with some of the UK’s best-rated beaches. Boasting an award-winning, expansive coastline benefiting from numerous restriction free, dog-friendly locations, places of mention include the thriving holiday resort of Gorleston-on-Sea in the East; the golden sands of Old Hunstanton to the West, as well as the picturesque national nature reserve of Holkham to the North.

Crossing over the border into Suffolk introduces a myriad of outstanding sea-side towns and villages to enjoy. Sought-after locations include Aldeburgh, Lowestoft and South-Wold to name but a few, and further exploration is possible by venturing into the heart of the county where outstanding heath and farmland walks, in addition to river and forest trails can be found in abundance.

For those seeking to combine an amble with a bite to eat and a place to stay, wideranging dog-friendly accommodation, eateries and restaurants have become synonymous with these two counties.

Comprising luxury hotels and guest-houses, “glamp-sites” and self-catering cottages, one could suggest that the only real challenges dog owners face, is that of taking the lead and deciding which of these offerings to experience and, when making this decision, taking the time to ensure our canine pals are just as well-fed and watered as the owners they depend on.

This leads us onto the fact that whilst we all count on the devotion and loyalty exuded by our pets, there is no escaping the responsibility owners have in finding ways and means in which to reward them with lives which reflect the quality of our own. In this aim, we can look towards the true benefits of caring for our pets. Taking precedent, primary focus can be afforded to the importance of regular grooming, quality nutrition, and the positives of investing in a robust pet-insurance policy to protect your furry-friend.

Besides making our animals look and smell pretty, grooming prevents disease, reduces the risk of infections and, like ourselves following a pampering, leaves your pet feeling refreshed and re-energised – After all, a clean pet is a happy one.

Quality nutrition is widely available thanks to leading manufacturers who have invested time and resources to grow product ranges for our pets to enjoy. Many of these innovations have been influenced by owners in search of products inspired by our own cultivated palates - Inspiration that has now been realised following the launch of artisan, premium products, alongside significant development being paid to raw foods designed to provide a natural approach to the daily feed.

Weighing up the advantages of a strong insurance policy is often overlooked when caring for our pets and can prove a wise one when taking into account the wealth of services our veterinary professionals now provide. From hydrotherapy to acupuncture, a comprehensive, life-time policy ensures that such therapies and treatments are available to our pets, and all at an affordable cost to the owner.

If one thing is certain when “caring for your pet”, it’s that joy through ownership is bona-fide. It’s thanks to this that owners can take inspiration by making the time to treat them to beach-side rambles, culinary delights, and the best-quality health and nutrition on the market. Whether these adventures lie within the borders of Norfolk or Suffolk, and regardless of which product innovations you choose for your loyal companion, spare a thought for the comfort they provide us, and the pleasure to be had in seeking out these experiences in the fine company of our four-legged friends.

A dedicated service to help pet owners Wood Green, The Animals Charity has

a dedicated service to help pet owners or people who are considering having a pet in the future with any questions they may have about owning a pet from general advice to behaviour tips or health and wellbeing advice.

If you are considering having a pet in the future and need guidance on pet choice, or you already have a pet and need some general advice or intensive support, the Wood Green’s dedicated teams are there to listen and give you the help you need. From coping with a new puppy to advice about preparing a pet if you are about to move home, their experts continuously help pet owners and their pets to live in harmony and get the best out of life.

If you are interested in taking home one of their pet, Wood Green carefully match every pet looking for a new home with the personalities and lifestyles of owners. They guide you through the homing process with knowledge of each pet’s individual lifestyle or training needs and any medical issues he or she may have - a pet they’ve taken the time to know.

Life can also be unpredictable and if pet owners are no longer able to care for a pet, Wood Green offer help with that too.

Visit woodgreen.org.uk or to contact Wood Green’s pet advisors call 0300 303 9333 ext. 1281 or email: pet.support@woodgreen.org.uk 71

House&Home

PROMOTION

Katie Mamo-Lewis www.attikestateagents.co.uk

Shipdham

- FREEHOLD

The location, setting, style and general feel of this property is the epitome of country living. Boasting a plot in excess of three acres with outbuildings, stables and a stunning pond, this property is not one to be missed.

Set in the heart of Norfolk, on the outskirts of Dereham this location offers easy access to the A11 and A47. The market towns of Watton and Dereham offer a huge range of local amenities.

If you are looking for more to do and a bigger high street, then Norwich is the closest city and well known for its diversity in shopping, musical events, and restaurants. If beaches are your thing then you will be pleased to know you can be at the North Norfolk coast in less than an hour by car.

• Large Four Bedoom Detached House • Immaculate Throughout • Spacious Shaker Style Kitchen • Living Room/Dining Room with Dual Aspect Wood Burner • Outbuildings & Stables • Large Plot with Pond and Formal Gardens • Boot Room & Utility Room • Stunning Rural Location • Planning permission to extend GUIDE: £750,000 - £800,000

72

Empathetic Estate Agents, Unapologetically Different Over the years that I worked as an

estate agent, for a range of corporate and independent local agents, the more I realised that I loved the industry, but I wanted to set up a new style of agency. A design led agency, with a unique approach to property marketing, to assist us in achieving the best possible price for our vendors. I also felt it was important that it was a sensitive agent, with the well-being of the client and assisting a stress free move at the forefront of our approach, aiding fully aligned home moves and property sales.

I have always been an empath and a healer and this really shines through in my attitude to our staff and customers. For many years in my previous employment, I was continually frustrated at the lack of support I could give to sellers and buyers moving home, especially when going through difficult times such as a loved one going into care or passing away, elderly downsizing and divorces. So often moving home or selling a property comes hand in hand with a major life event, when a client may make rushed decisions as they are stressed or grieving and I wanted to offer a service whereby clients can be carefully guided and take their time.

After matching our vendors with an ideal buyer we then support all parties to manage the sale through to completion and

have a very low rate of chains collapsing.

We are lucky enough to have found some like minded solicitors, mortgage brokers and removal companies, and we all work together pro-actively on all aspects of our clients move or sale.

We cover all types of residential sales however, one of our main areas of business is assisting executors of wills when a loved one has passed away or if a family member has gone into care leaving a home to be cleared and sold. In this day and age people are so busy and family members often live In different counties and countries making it difficult logistically to take care of an estate. Many of our clients find it difficult emotionally too, to clear a loved ones home and deal with the negotiations of the sale.

At Attik we have a system we follow once the family have claimed any items they require in accordance with the will or for sentimental value. Our house clearance department then clear all perishable items, rubbish and personal items from the property and leave the larger items of furniture in to stage the property for the photographs and the viewings. The property is then placed on the market.

Once we reach the point of exchange the larger items are then cleared. Any valuable items are sold at auction or to our network of specialist traders. This service is very popular across both Norfolk and Suffolk.

01692 407126 practice@tollbarnvets.co.uk www.tollbarnvets.co.uk CT Scanners

allow complete

3D image of your pet

Luxury Cat Boarding Hotel

Laser Therapy Helping reduce inflammation and provide pain relief

24/7 Veterinary Care for Pets and Exotic Animals Independent Family Run Practice Accredited Gold Standard Rabbit and Gold Standard Cat Friendly Practice On site Luxury Cat Boarding Hotel Dedicated Cat, Dog & Exotic Waiting areas and Wards On site C T Scanner Digital X-ray, Ultrasound, Endoscopy, Tonometry, ECG and an In-House Lab Laser Therapy Very Important Pet (VIP) Clubs to save you money Large Private Car Park Advanced Practitioner in Zoological Medicine

Call 01692 407126 to arrange a look and see visit Heath Road, North Walsham, NR28 0JB

k ttoo pp ss r o w e o rtko p B ee sspp oo kkiet w n Bth a t f it oo n to p itth th a t f one day,, w iiohn w y a n i d t i l d e e o n t ion Fiittted sins oor deem Fno mess or d molit no me urrss ttoo o l o c 0 Ovveerr 550e cfroolomu Ochoose from n choos urr oow o w y b d ed by ofuittersn l l a t s n Installesional fitters Iprofessional profes frreeee & e c i v d a &f Frriieennddllyycoandsviuclettaattiioonn Fhome consul home fiitt nneew w o s l a Wee alsno dfoors!!

W en doors kiittcch e h k

Visit our showroom, or call to book a Visit our showroom, or call to book a free home consultation, and we’ll free home consultation, and we’ll show you how easy it is to transform show you how easy it is to transform your kitchen with our granite, quartz, your kitchen with our granite, quartz, recycled glass and porcelain worktops. recycled glass and porcelain worktops.

Call now Call now

01263 01263 712362 712362

At Granite Transformations we offer a complete package for updating your surfaces, splashbacks, doors and At Granite Transformations we offer a complete package for updating yourmade surfaces, splashbacks, doors and appliances.

Fitting a new worktop is fast and effective with each top custom to your exact requirements. appliances. a new worktop is fast andwe effective each topover custom made to your exact requirements.

There is no Fitting need to remove old worktops, simplywith fit directly your existing surfaces, guaranteeing There is no need to remove old worktops, we simply fit directly over your existing surfaces, guaranteeing complete peace of mind from start to finish. To complete the look, we also supply and install made-to-measure complete peace of mind from start to finish.

To complete the look, we also supply and install made-to-measure kitchen cabinet doors and drawer fronts, in a wide choice of colours, finishes and styles. kitchen cabinet doors and drawer fronts, in a wide choice of colours, finishes and styles.

Holt Showroom: 01263 712362 Holt Showroom: 7 Apple Yard, Holt,01263 NR25 712362 6AR 7 Apple Yard, Holt, OPEN 10am - 4:30pmNR25 MON6AR to SAT OPEN 10am - 4:30pm MON to SAT

www.granitetransformations.co.uk www.granitetransformations.co.uk

&

Life Living WELLBEING WISDOM Want to re-discover your vigour?

Re-balance and re-charge your energies with Shiatsu, a traditional Japanese healing massage that includes pressure points, joint mobilisation and with fabulous stretches to release tensions.

Or try a luxurious Ayurvedic Marma Massage using warm oils to stimulate elimination of toxins, cleanse and relax.

Why not sign up for a short course

& 75

of health coaching and a personalised health programme including a cleansing diet, morning cleansing rituals and easy exercises to balance and re-vitalise your energies.

Fermentation Workshops will be running throughout 2019. shiatsutrish@btinternet.com Tel: Trish Dent on 07530 699985 www.trishdent.co.uk

Life&Living

Suffer from

STIFF & PAINFUL

KNEES? Debbie Thorpe of Spire Norwich Hospital catches up with Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon, Mr David Calder to discuss knee arthroscopy, a common procedure to help diagnose and treat a range of knee complaints.

I

t is said that the average

person takes around 7,500 steps each day. If maintained until the ripe age of 80 years, you’ll have walked about 216,262,500 steps which equates to around 110,000 miles in a lifetime. Although knee complaints can be caused by a fall or sporting injury, it’s not surprising general ‘wear and tear’ of the knee joint is also a common cause for pain and stiffness. So I caught up with Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon, Mr David Calder to find out what’s involved with knee arthroscopy and how it can help local patients.

Mr Calder, what is a knee arthroscopy?

“Firstly, the word ‘arthroscopy’ simply means to look into a joint, ‘arthro’ meaning joint and ‘scopy’ meaning to view.

Arthroscopy is a laparoscopic (keyhole) operation that is used to look inside and treat joints, especially the knee joint.”

Why are arthroscopies performed?

“An arthroscopy may be recommended for patients who have knee problems such as persistent joint pain, swelling or stiffness.

Whilst historically arthroscopy was used to assess joint problems, nowadays a diagnosis would usually be established prior to arthroscopy with the help of x-rays and MRI scans.

“An arthroscopy can also be used to assess the level of joint damage resulting from an injury, such as a sports injury or to treat a range of joint problems and conditions such as repair damaged cartilage,

remove fragments of loose bone or cartilage or to treat conditions such as localised osteoarthritis.”

How is the procedure carried out?

“A knee arthroscopy is usually performed under general anaesthetic, which means the patient will be asleep during the procedure.

“Two small incisions (about 5mm long) are made in the skin around the knee joint.

The first incision is used to insert the arthroscope (narrow, tube-like telescope) to enable the surgeon to view the joint by looking at pictures it sends to a video screen and to pump sterile fluid into the joint to help produce a clearer picture. The second incision is used to insert other instruments to probe structures, repair any damage or remove material that interferes with movement or causes pain in the knee.

“Afterwards, the fluid is drained and the incisions are closed with stitches or adhesive strips. A dressing and a bandage is wrapped around the knee. The procedure may take from 15 minutes to over an hour.

“Following the procedure, patients are likely to have some pain, stiffness and swelling around the joint, which may last a few weeks. Gentle knee exercises will help reduce stiffness and discomfort.

“Arthroscopy is a commonly performed and generally safe surgical procedure.

For most patients, the benefits in terms of improved symptoms, or from having a clear diagnosis of a joint problem, are greater than the disadvantages. However, all surgery carries an element of risk.”

77

What are the risks?

“Specific complications of knee arthroscopy could include accidental damage to the inside of the joint or a loss of feeling in the skin over the knee. Uncommonly, it’s also possible to develop a blood clot in the veins of one of your legs (deep vein thrombosis, DVT) or an infection.

“The chance of complications depends on the exact type of operation performed and other factors such as the patients’ general health.”

Mr David Calder concludes: “Treatment is available for patients suffering from stiff and painful joints, all of which are offered at Spire Norwich Hospital. The best advice is to visit your GP initially. Your GP will be able to refer you to a surgeon who specialises in knee conditions and knee surgery who can offer a broad range of treatments therefore tailoring them to your specific needs.”

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION about knee arthroscopy arrange an appointment with your family doctor or call 01603 255 614 to make a private appointment with Mr David Calder.

Further details regarding Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon Mr David Calder can be found on his consultant profile at www.spirenorwich.com All surgery carries an element of risk and the content of this page is provided for general information only. It should not be treated as a substitute for the professional medical advice of your doctor or other healthcare professional. www.facebook.com/spirenorwichhospital/

Staycation

s k a e r B

The Pheasant Hotel, Holt

Sea Pink, Wells-next-the-Sea

Luxury accommodation, good food, and a stunning countryside location.

From romantic getaways to fun-fi lled family holidays, the rooms are the perfect place to relax and unwind with loved ones. With a limited number of dog friendly rooms available upon request, thisr location in the heart of the North Norfolk countryside is perfect for four-legged friends and long walks.

The restaurant creates fabulous food from classic British dishes and indulgent afternoon teas to hearty Sunday roasts, the ever-changing menus celebrate the fi nest, local, seasonal produce.

Bijoux, boutique and chic, three words that best describe this pretty ground level apartment in Brig Square; a small group of distinctive fi shermen’s cottages just a short walk away from the famous seaside quay in Wells. The sitting room is comfortably set out and equipped with a dining table and chairs, comfortable seating, , fl at screen Smart TV, DVD, CD player, WiFi and clock radio with Blu-tooth speaker. Upstairs the bedroom with double bed leads off to an en-suite shower cubicle and separate cloakroom.

www.pheasanthotelnorfolk.co.uk

78

Great care has been taken by the attentive owner to create a stylish, but comfortable, cosy and well equipped, romantic pied-a-terre for two (equally suitable for someone wishing to holiday alone).

Perfect for both summer and winter breaks alike there is a delightful sunny courtyard with seating at the rear, and cosy blankets, for enjoying a relaxing glass of wine or two at the end of a busy day.

There is parking for one car outside the door. www.norfolkcottages.co.uk

Life&Living

The Neptune, Old Hunstanton In August 2007 Kevin and Jacki Mangeolles relocated to Norfolk to open The Neptune Restaurant with Rooms, a charming 18th century former coaching inn, refurbished to provide an intimate restaurant and comfortable accommodation; warm and friendly but with a generous portion of outstanding quality.

The fine dining restaurant serves modern British food, excellently cooked and served in relaxed surroundings with attentive, friendly service. The restaurant has been awarded 3 AA rosettes and has retained a Michelin star since 2009.

The restaurant has an emphasis on fresh, local produce.

A stone’s throw from the beach at Old Hunstanton, the Neptune with its four cosy bedrooms is ideally placed both as a gourmet bolthole and for exploring the attractions of the North Norfolk coast. www.theneptune.co.uk

Whateacre Hall Barns, Suffolk Eight barns have been converted in to luxury holiday cottages on a working arable and dairy farm, amidst the beautiful south Norfolk countryside under wide arching skies amongst farmland and hidden waterways. All eight barns have been sympathetically converted into modern luxury accommodation and retain many of their original features including fine beams. Set near to the main farmhouse, each barn boasts its own private sitting out area and access to the farm grounds where coarse fishing and farm walks, cycling and bird watching as well as the enjoyment of an outdoor hot tub combine to make Wheatacre Hall Barns the perfect place to relax and unwind in the country. www.wheatacrehallbarns.co.uk

34 Lee Road, Aldeburgh An award winning bed & breakfast where you can be guaranteed to receive a warm welcome, high quality accommodation and delicious breakfasts. The owners go out of their way to make your stay as comfortable and hassle free as possible.

The accommodation is ideally situated in the heart of Aldeburgh, in a quiet but central location, just a few minutes’ walk from the High Street and the sea. Its three spacious guest rooms have been thoughtfully furnished and tastefully decorated to a very high standard with free WiFi connection. It has been assessed by Quality in Tourism as a ‘4 Star Bed and Breakfast’, with a ‘Silver Award’ for quality and a ‘Breakfast Award’. www.aldeburgh-bedandbreakfast.co.uk

The Pigs, Edgefield Since 2006 The Pigs has been the purveyor of real Norfolk food and luxury accommodation.

The kitchen offers a seasonal menu with fortnightly changes, a creative and dedicated team serve real food without the pomp! Find less common cuts of meat served up in innovative and mouth-watering dishes, a fifteen mile breakfast, iffits (Norfolk’s answer to tapas), and down to earth puddings that promise to keep you sweet! The ingredients are always fresh and as local as possible.

You’ll feel like a pig in muck when you stay

at The Pigs. In a good way, no actual mud. They have nineteen rooms available. Choose from Original Rooms, Spa Rooms, Spa Suites and Dog Friendly rooms.

A dedicated team ensure that your stay is second to none. Passionate about making each guest happy you’ll find facilities to suite everyone. A family eating area, dining area, bar, a piggy play area, a luxury family suite, and for private dining there is Scandinorfia, and there’s even a pooch friendly menu! www.thepigs.org.uk

79

80

Life&Living

The Beauty of

Bath Kate Morfoot, a leading travel writer and f o u n d e r o f w w w. L o v e T o E a t T o T r a v e l . c o m discovers the beauty of Bath.

B

ath

is a spectacular city and every time I visit it never ceases to amaze me. The thriving city has an ancient heritage. It has everything to offer from wonderful sight-seeing, a true cultural vibrancy, a great food scene, diverse museums and the wonderful Roman spa baths – not to mention the great shopping!

The city is perfect for a weekend escape where you can combine all of the above and get to have the perfect spa time too and what better place to check into than the boutique hotel, No.15 Great Pulteney? This luxurious townhouse hotel is located a stone’s throw from the centre near Bath Abbey and the Roman Baths.

No.15 Great Pulteney is situated on Bath’s most iconic neoclassical street, made up of three Grade 1 listed townhouses which has 40 individually decorated bedrooms.

All the bedrooms and suites are luxurious and comfortable giving you a pillow list of varying comforts and the ensuite bathrooms have lovely Aromatherapy Associates beauty products.

within the hotel. I found out that the collaboration with the fabulous Martin Hulbert Design and other stars of UK interior design explains the fascinating touches in all corners.

The art theme follows through with young aspiring artists displaying their work in their bedrooms. All the bedrooms and suites are luxurious and comfortable giving you a pillow list of varying comforts and the ensuite bathrooms have lovely Aromatherapy Associates beauty products.

The hotel celebrates Bath’s rich history and has embraced the waters of Bath with its own luxurious ‘Spa 15’ which offers day spa experiences for guests and visitors offering a hot tub, a sauna, facials, skincare and holistic treatments. I tried the reflexology treatment which was professionally done and afterwards felt I was walking on air down the streets of Bath!

A

Big Ben sits in one of the windows of the hotel, this is a large indicator that No.15 is one of fun and grandeur.

On arriving, you immediately feel very welcome as it has a warm home-fromhome vibe. It’s also very nice that they check you in and show you the larder which is where you can help yourself to old fashioned sweets and fudge and find a bright red SMEG fridge full of mini bottles of milk for your tea and coffee.

The interior has been eclectically curated with collections of all kinds of trinkets, artefacts, pottery, artwork, you name it, there’s a collection of something intriguing and beautiful

81

Did you know that Bath is the only city in the UK designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site? It doesn’t take long to work out why as you stroll along Great Pulteney Street passing rows of perfect Georgian buildings or wander along the streets to and see the architectural masterpieces at the Royal Crescent and The Circus.

The city’s most popular attraction is the Roman Baths. With steaming baths, hypocaust (underfloor heating) systems, and the remains of the temple

only natural springs with the opening of the Thermae Bath Spa. The thermal waters which fell over 10,000 years ago and then sank to a depth of 2kms are heated by high temperature rocks before rising back through one of the three springs in the city centre; The King’s Spring, The Cross Spring and the Hetling Spring. The Thermae Bath Spa is open to everyone to relax and enjoy. You can indulge in the open-air top roof pool, by day and by night, float away in the Minerva Bath and enjoy the best steam rooms ever sampled with aromatic essences including eucalyptus and mint and lemongrass and ginger.

The new wellness suite includes many saunas, steam rooms and an ice room.

Spa treatments are offered where you can indulge in a range of thermal treatments, water massages, hot stone therapies, facials and beauty treatments.

The Cross Bath Spa is a Grade-1 listed building and home to the only place in the UK where visitors can see the naturally warm mineral rich spring water come to the surface from a specially commissioned open-air thermal bath within stunning Georgian surroundings. This is where the mineral-rich waters rise from the Cross Spring. This beautiful Georgian space is available for hire for private parties or for exclusive sessions.

After a day in the spa, shopping and sight-seeing, No15. Great Pulteney is a welcome retreat!

The Cross Bath Spa is a Grade-1 listed building and home to the only place in the UK where visitors can see the naturally warm mineral rich spring water come to the surface from a specially commissioned open-air thermal bath within stunning Georgian surroundings. to Sulis Minerva, this extraordinary Roman site is captivating. This is Britain’s only hot spring and the Romans built a magnificent temple and bathing complex that still flows with natural hot water that rises at a rate of 1,170,000 litres each day at 46 degrees. At the Romans Baths visit the Pump Room for lunch or afternoon tea. Once at the heart of the Georgian social scene, today the Pump Room is still elegant serving delicious brunches, afternoon tea with super service.

Roman Baths date back to AD43.

Now you can experience the naturally warm, mineral –rich waters of Britain’s

82

Fact-File Stay: A double room at 15 Great Pulteney, Bath, is £124 per night.

Website: www.no15greatpulteney.co.uk Telephone: 01225 807015 Email: enquiries@no15greatpulteney.co.uk Spa: The Thermae Bath Spa offers two hour sessions which cannot be pre-booked.

To Book a spa treatments at New Royal Bath at Thermae Spa telephone 0844 888 0844.

For more information about the city: www.visitbath.co.uk

Life&Living

83

We are expanding our portfolio, so please contact us if you have a beautiful holiday retreat to share with others.

01263 569220 owners@norfolkcottages.co.uk norfolkcottages.co.uk

Visit Italy direct from Norwich Airport

9 amazing tours from ÂŁ709 Departing 15 May & 25 Sep 2019 To book please call 01603 428700 or visit www.travelnorwichairport.co.uk Price quoted excludes ÂŁ10 per adult Norwich Airport Development Fee, payable locally at the airport.

time

Recharge your batteries with a well-earned winter break

Four Seasons, Mexico City Set around a verdant inner courtyard, complete with tropical fruit trees and chirping canaries, this hacienda-style Hotel puts the hectic urban hustle of Mexico’s vibrant capital city seemingly on pause, but only for as long as you’d like.

Step outside the hotels doors, and you’ll fi nd yourself on the grand boulevard of Paseo de la Reforma, just a short stroll away from Bosque de Chapultepec and the trendy neighbourhoods of Condesa and Polanco.

Get a little respite from city life with a stroll through the idyllic garden courtyard, surrounded by lush jungle greenery, strings of light and a tranquil central fountain.

The Four Seasons is a pretty colonial-style building with 240 rooms across eight fl oors.

The rooms and suites have been recently refreshed to stylish rich dark woods, deep red and neutral colours. One thing to note is that the beds are incredibly plush and comfortable.

Sugar Beach, St Lucia

Blue Waters Resort Antigua

Sugar Beach resort and hotel is set within over 100 acres of pristine rainforest on the site of an 18th Century sugar plantation and in the embrace of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Pitons. The lushly landscaped grounds sweep down to the stunning white sand Sugar Beach and the glimmering Caribbean Sea. Discover this luxury St Lucia resort for an unforgettable island experience.

Discover a place that’s all your own, undisturbed and so inspired. The hotel’s luxury guestrooms, beachfront bungalows and villas at Sugar Beach, a Viceroy Resort, are set in privacy amid vibrant gardens and soaring trees. You’ll be perfectly enveloped in it all, enjoying the harmony between nature and modern living.

Outside your door: breath-taking views of the Caribbean Sea and the Val des Pitons, along with all the 18th-century Colonial charm St Lucia is known for.

On the north western corner of Antigua, where the Caribbean Sea laps against the shore, you will fi nd Blue Waters Resort.

Epitomising luxury and elegance, Blue Waters is the idyllic tropical paradise which every person dreams about.

Named after the majestic birds which frequent the bay at Blue Waters, Pelican Bar is an authentic Caribbean bar: bright and airy with views of the lush greenery and glittering ocean.

2010 marked the hotel’s 50th anniversary, and it now boasts 116 rooms and suites plus 4 villas. Over the years Blue Waters has won multiple awards, including the World Travel Award for the Leading Hotel in Antigua & Barbuda for the past six years in a row and Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Award for their contribution to the island.

www.viceroyhotelsandresorts.com/en/ sugarbeach

www.bluewaters.net

www.fourseasons.com/mexico 85

Life&Living

Travel

Kate Morfoot, leading travel writer f r o m w w w. L o v e To E a t To T ra v e l . c o m c h e c k s into OBLU by Atmosphere at Helengeli Island in the Maldives.

W

hat better way to arrive

at your tropical island resort in the Maldives than by an exhilarating speedboat ride? After a ten hour direct flight from London Gatwick, we landed early morning at Valana International Airport located by the harbour. Infact, the runway is so close to the sea you may think that your holiday is going to start by having to swim!

The resort speedboat was ready to pick us up and 50 minutes later we had reached our luxury paradise, OBLU by Atmosphere at Helengeli Island located in the North Malé atoll. It is a paradise destination for honeymooners but now it is an increasingly popular holiday destination for scuba divers.

Did you know that the Maldives is made up of an archipelago of 1,192 islands set in 26 natural atolls? Just 188 of the islands are inhabited with 133 resorts, 504 guest houses, 17 city hotels and more than 148 LiveAboard vessels to choose from.

OBLU at Helegeli is an all-inclusive resort not to be missed for many reasons. From my experience I found that the staff are genuinely friendly and attentive, the food is delicious and varied, the spa, gym and water sports facilities are excellent and there’s plenty to do or not to do should you so wish on the island! The accommodation is excellent and it’s perfectly located for a fabulous holiday on the beach.

The four-star deluxe resort caters for families, solo travellers, honeymooners, couples and of course it’s popular with water sports lovers and scuba divers. There are 116 villas in 4 categories, 22 Beach Villas; 64 Deluxe Beach Villas; 28 Lagoon Villas with Plunge Pool and two Beach Suites with pool. There’s a fully equipped gym and a relaxing spa on the island, a picture perfect white sandy beach with lots of places to relax.

We stayed in a beautiful and contemporary beach villa which was perfectly located in the middle of the small island and just steps away from the magical ocean where the azure blue sea temperature was 29 degrees. There are many activities to keep you entertained that are included in your package including sunset fishing, paddle boarding, kayaking and an excursion to visit an island.

The popular activity that most people were enjoying was snorkelling in the beautiful house reef where the marine life and coral is outstanding.

The bedroom was large with a comfortable king size bed, ample wardrobe space and a fully stocked fridge which was refilled daily with soft drinks, water and beer. It had a lovely spacious outdoor open-air bathroom with a tropical garden included. The outdoor terrace had breath-

86

taking views over the beach to the ocean.

The island is surrounded by two channels of lagoon water, it’s ideal for diving and snorkeling thanks to the abundance of tropical marine wildlife found there.

OBLU at Helengeli was the perfect island choice for me because I was there to discover and explore the underwater world.

The Maldives is one of the best locations to scuba dive; I therefore decided to finish my PADI Open Water programme at their certified Five Star PADI dive centre.

I had passed my PADI Open water theory exams back in the UK and then finished the course by completing four open water dives at OBLU. Their dive centre is undoubtedly one of the best in the Maldives, it is run by a dedicated team of professionals.

You don’t need to, because OBLU has their own Aqualung scuba gear you can hire but if you are travelling onward or prefer your own kit then it’s easy enough to take your own.

My Aqualung scuba diving equipment included a dive computer, mask and snorkel, Mikron breathing regulator, 3mm ‘Mahe’

We stayed in a beautiful and contemporary beach villa which was perfectly located in the middle of the small island and just steps away from the magical ocean... ‘shorty’ wetsuit, Phazer Fins with 5mm Ellie Ergo boots, the Aqualung Outlaw BCD (buoyancy control device). This is Aqualung’s BCD scuba jacket specific for holidays because it is light and it cleverly ‘breaks up’ into sections so it’s easy to pack.

Markus Schubert from OBLU was my friendly dive professional and patient one-to-one scuba ‘buddy’ who dived with me throughout. My first dive was at the Helengeli House Reef to test my underwater skills that I learnt on my theory papers.

I went for a boat dive at Kurdu Giri and progressed to a depth of 12m. Here I saw two hammerhead sharks and an eagle ray, as well as hundreds of multi coloured fish and stunning coral.

Scuba diving with sharks can be daunting, but I was assured that they are friendly in the Maldives. In fact scuba diving in the Maldives with sharks is why people want to dive there. The type of sharks which inhibit those waters are nurse, reef, hammerhead and if you are lucky you will see tiger sharks.

Life&Living

Helengeli la dives ISLAND M

87

Fact-File

How to get there: Parking with Airport Parking & Hotels - 01342 710 071. www.aph.com/gatwick-airport/parking Flying: Kate flew direct from London Gatwick to Valana International Airport with British Airways. Transfer pick up and return from OBLU by Atmosphere by speedboat to Airport.

Where to stay: For more information about the resort visit: www.oblu-helengeli.com All guests stay on the All-Inclusive plan which includes all food and beverages, accommodation, use of facilities and a number of excursions/ activities. Transfers included. Scuba diving and PADI courses are not included in the package.

How to Book: Hayes & Jarvis (01293 762 456, www.hayesandjarvis.co.uk) is offering a 10 night holiday to the Maldives from £2,319 per person.

The offer includes staying at the four star OBLU

by Atmosphere at Helengeli, on an all-inclusive basis. The offer also includes return international flights from London Heathrow with SriLankan Airlines. Based on departures 09 May 2019.

Travel Insurance: Travellers will find that InsureandGo’s lead-in budget policy includes 50 activities and scuba diving sports as standard. An InsureandGo annual Worldwide (excluding USA, Canada, Mexico and Caribbean) Budget policy starts from £40.99. For more information or to purchase a policy, please visit: www.insureandgo.com More information: www.visitmaldives.com 88

Life&Living

They are very graceful and are seemingly not troubled by humans.

Indeed, I lived to experience this incredible opportunity and to tell the tale! The most surprising thing that I saw was one of the OBLU PADI team free-diving down with us at ten metres!

Their resident free-diving champion swam down to say hello which in some ways was more breath-taking (literally) than seeing the sharks! A free-diving or what is sometimes known as ‘skin diving’ course is offered at OBLU this is fast becoming a popular trend in the underwater world! I think for now I will concentrate on getting to grips with breathing via an air cylinder tank underwater!

A depth of 18m was achieved on dive three at Fiedermaas Reef. I then completed my qualifications with a fourth scuba dive at Kuda Faru to pass my PADI Open Water! That was a great feeling and I will always have happy memories about diving at OBLU! It’s important to mention to get good travel insurance if you are considering watersports of any kind. For my trip to The Maldives, I was insured by UK travel insurance provider, InsureandGo, and was able to enjoy my scuba diving adventures safe in the knowledge that this activity was included as standard within my policy.

With water temperatures of around 28 degrees and so much to see, scuba diving opens up another world of ocean resort holidays.

There is an abundance of colourful, friendly and stunning marine life from the busy clown fish, colourful parrot fish, checkerboard wrasse, blue-striped snapper to angelfish. OBLU boasts over 20 top diving sites which are nearby, it’s a world renowned dive location.

Scuba diving at OBLU Helengeli has a huge advantage over other resorts in the Maldives as they have their own house reef close by and plenty of nearby reefs which are not busy. They cater for beginners to advanced divers and you

can brush up your skills with their team of PADI professionals.

For those who just want to relax, then Helengeli is the perfect tropical island retreat. It has two ocean side swimming pools (one is adult only) with sundecks and a quiet area overlooking the sea, it has an open air bar and a relaxing spa.

The Spice is the main dining area for breakfast, lunch and dinner exceptionally good from the buffet is served here. The nearest neighbours are India, 600km distant to the north, and Sri Lanka, 670km to the east.

So much of the Maldivian food is influenced by these countries. Lavish food from the buffet is available and caters for most dietary requirements and taste buds.

Breakfast is varied and plentiful with fresh juices, homemade bread, jams, grilled meat and tropical fruit.

We enjoyed dining on the grilled local fish, delicious curries in addition to choosing from the incredible amount of puddings on offer.

Following on from the three years since OBLU’s makeover and refurbishment, we were lucky enough to enjoy their anniversary cake.

You can dine outside in the area overlooking the house reef and if you’re lucky during lunch you may spot a family of eagle rays elegantly passing by or even a turtle popping up from time to time.

The other restaurant to try is Just Grill, a romantically set restaurant on the beach which is lit up by the sea, perfect for a romantic night and intimate celebration.

You will find it hard not to relax in this paradise haven, made even better by delicious food and attentive staff that made our dining experience top notch!

The average temperature in the Maldives is about 30 degrees Celsius throughout the year, it has two distinct seasons; dry season (northeast monsoon Jan to March) and wet season (southwest monsoon) from mid-May to November. Although a rain-free dry season isn’t guaranteed it may be best to take your holiday from November to March.

From the moment you arrive at OBLU to the moment you leave you are part of the Helengeli Island family.

I am looking forward to returning to experience more underwater adventures and relaxation by the exotic ocean.

89

5

Dr

Prin For coll Wav

Wh in N the ama are sup and staff like real

YOUR ROUTE TO AN outstanding fUTURE fUTURE East Norfolk Sixth Form College

Information Evening Tuesday 5th March 2019

5.00-7.00pm

is the outstanding choice for over 1500 students because of its 36-year reputation for success.

locally with the prestigious Norwich City Community Sports Foundation Elite Football and Elite Xtra programmes.

The College offers an unrivalled curriculum with over 80 A Level, BTEC Level 3 and Level 2 subjects and consistently features among the Top UK colleges and currently has a 99% A Level pass rate. It is also the Ofsted ‘Good’ college for Great Yarmouth and Lowestoft.

All of our students are encouraged from the moment they start at EN to see themselves as achieving at the highest level. We stretch and challenge them to achieve the very best so that when they leave, they have excellent results and developed a range of skills to help them to be more rounded individuals.

EN is the top college locally for progression with 98% of students that progress to Russell Group universities achieving a First Class or Upper Second degree. Ten students have received offers at Oxford and Cambridge for 2019 and more than 25% progress directly to employment and more than 10% go on to apprenticeships.

Students choose EN because of the freedom and independence that a sixth form college experience offers. Located in the very heart of the Gorleston community, students are just a short walk away from the high street with its mix of shops, cinema, library and gorgeous beach.

Students with aspirations to be professional footballers or pursue a career in sport have a unique opportunity as EN is the only college

Apply Online Today 90

www.eastnorfolk.ac.uk

How to y a hu prog app mai to le has scho prom them and alre for 2 stud USA be l man skill

Wh wor to p lives circu EN h thou last of th leav to b staff man thin pass wan the

m

all

he s ch est nt help

om ge rt of st a its s

Life&Living

019

5 minutes with

Dr Catherine Richards,

Principal of East Norfolk Sixth Form College, the Ofsted ‘Good’ college for Great Yarmouth and Waveney.

What do you like about living in Norfolk? I like the lifestyle and the people are very friendly. It’s amazing how the local community are so willing to help students and support the college. When I’m out and about, students, parents and staff who have links to EN always like to have a chat which I also really like.

How does EN make a difference to young people’s lives? We have a huge number of students who progress to employment, university, apprenticeships. One of our main values is to remove barriers to learning. Whether a student has come from an independent school or special needs school. We promote a culture that supports them to be what they want to be and do what they want to. We already have 10 offers for Oxbridge for 2019, the highest ever, and students currently studying in the USA and Holland. I am so lucky to be leading an organisation with so many talented staff and specialist skills to help students.

What do you enjoy most about working in this region? Being able to play a role in changing people’s lives, regardless of their personal circumstances, is really rewarding.

EN has made a difference to thousands of students over the last 36 years. I’m also really proud of the fact that many students leave EN and then want to return to become teachers or support staff. Six out of eight of our middle managers are former students. I think that is due to them being passionate about the college and wanting to give something back to the region.

How is EN contributing to the future of the region? The subjects we offer are matched to the needs of local businesses. The college is the largest provider of STEM subjects outside of Cambridge and our results in Maths and Further Maths are among the best in the region. EN is supporting the development of some of the top maths brains in the country.

Students taking 3D Design include the next generation of architects and we have students, male and female, progressing to industrial design, who will be the next leaders of implementing the infrastructure of the region. The Level 4 qualifications we now offer are helping to develop students even further so that they leave us with work ready skills. Our outstanding relationship with local employers, who work with us to deliver quality experiences for students also ensures we can match student aspirations with employer expectations.

Tell us something that people don’t know about you? I’m an animal lover with 3 adopted rescue cats and a dog (Arthur).

In fact, Arthur is a frequent visitor to EN and students get to see him in class, take him for walks and he is a very popular addition the team.

What is your proudest achievement? Over the past 7 years since arriving at EN, results have improved consistently year on year and being part of that success makes me proud. Being able to see students, who in some cases have been given the impression that they are not good enough, go on to succeed and flourish, with excellent results is an amazing feeling. I’m very proud of being able to fly the flag for Great Yarmouth and Gorleston through the success of our students.

Tell us about a typical day for you? Much of my time is spent thinking about the student experience,

future planning, talking to parents and staff to safeguard the future success of the college. Everything we do is focused upon making sure all of our students have the best experience, achieve independence and be ambitious within a culture that is supportive and ensures they get the best opportunities.

What do you like to do when you’re not working? I am a member of local book club and involved in the local Rotary Club.

I’m also currently in the middle of renovating a house which takes up a lot of time as does walking the dog and spending time in the garden. My passion for learning means that I’m also taking another Level 7 qualification and then using that knowledge for the benefit of our students.

Where do you like to eat and drink out? There are so many wonderful places to eat out locally and I’m a big fan of trying new experiences. I visit the Pier in Gorleston regularly because of its great views, similarly with the Imperial Hotel in Gt Yarmouth. I also love The Shed as it’s little bit different. I’m really looking forward to trying out The Ivy in Norwich having been to the one in London.

Can you sum up EN in five words?

Always exceeding expectations for all Can you sum yourself up in five words? Passionate, caring, creative, innovative, aspirational.

91

N O RW I C H H I G H SCHOOL FOR GIRLS

OPEN WEEK

94%

A*-C / 9-4 GCSEs 2018

M O N D AY 4 T H T O F R I D AY 8 T H M A R C H 2019

75%

A*-B

A Levels 2018

Flexible mini-bus service now available across Norfolk

Limited places for girls aged 3 to 16 to join our outstanding Pre-Prep and Prep School, Senior School or Sixth Form in September 2019 Visit www.norwichhigh.gdst.net, email admissions@nor.gdst.net or call 01603 453 265 to book your personalised tour

@NorwichHigh

Life&Living

PROMOTION

OUTDOOR EDUCATION opens pupils’ eyes to the world

by Owain Hall

T

he

purpose of education should be rooted in the notion that it enables people to grow. The primary years at school lay the foundations not only in terms of knowledge-base and skill-set, but perhaps even more importantly in sowing the seeds of positive attitudes both academically and socially.

Naturalist Chris Packham’s assertion in 2018 that every primary school in Britain should be twinned with a farm was music to my ears. Children are spending less time outdoors, childhood obesity has risen to modern-day epidemic levels and access to convenience foods rather than seasonal fresh produce is at an all-time high. Clearly, the need for children to have an understanding of where food comes from and how it is integral to their healthy growth has never been more important.

In 2018, we kindly received funding from our school PTA to install a polytunnel which has already had a transformative effect. Watching our girls emerge from the polytunnel with beaming smiles and a clutch of green beans to take home is heart-warming. The girls take immense pride in proclaiming: “We grew these!” and even more satisfaction in returning the next day to tell you how they prepared them for dinner the night before. They have whipped up healthy stir-fries, made pasta sauce and prepared fantastically fresh salads that have inspired even the most hardened ‘salad dodgers’ to find a new appreciation for all things green. They have an enhanced awareness of the seasons, food miles and just how much hard work it takes to produce food, something that is far more difficult to appreciate when grabbing something off the supermarket shelves. Put simply, our girls have grown as individuals through their

experiences of growing and enjoying their own produce.

We are only in the initial stages of our project and this year will see our Year 6 pupils running a healthy eating tuck shop and Friday Farm Shop selling local produce that the girls have sourced themselves, and opening our garden up to the wider local community to share the fruits of our labour.

Though there is lots of hard work left to do, our polytunnel has already borne fruit: happier, healthier and more aware young girls.

This engagement must not end with primary education. For the transition to Secondary to mark the end of our girls’ engagement in Forest Schools, daily watering and weeding and polytunnel harvesting would be an educational seed not properly sown. We’re now transforming an area of the 14 acre site into a fruit orchard, growing heritage varieties of apples and pears. A team of Year 11 and 12 girls have formed an Orchard group to drive this vision from the outset, researching suitable varieties and carefully planning and landscaping the area. The final planting out of the 16 trees begins this week and we are grateful for the help of the East of England Apples and Orchards Project.

The Orchard Project is a new addition to our expansive outdoor learning programme; currently, our Year 11 and 12 girls carry out vital weekly voluntary conservation work on Mousehold Heath in Norwich – a green lung of the city and an area rich in diverse habitats, all managed by just one conservation warden. In September, our Year 9 geographers visited Carr farm, a largely arable farm in Ormesby, where they dug out soil pits, talked with the farmer about his life and discovered how a business 93

model can be run alongside (and not at the expense of ) natural habitats. The same girls also camped locally in North Norfolk under canvas for two nights last September, learning Bushcraft skills, resilience and teamwork. This month, our A Level Business Studies students visited Traditional Norfolk Poultry in Shropham to learn about how the business started, how it has grown and the various business practices employed.

In January, we were also delighted to welcome a new school dog who we hope will help pupils educationally and socially.

Casper, a yellow Labrador puppy, is settling in to the school environment very well, currently attending three days a week. Girls have already jumped at the opportunity to get outside and take him for walks with a member of our staff.

If all of this sounds too idyllic to be true, I can assure you that our girls have the usual essay crises and are academically ambitious. While we take our academic studies seriously, we believe that education is about more than what can be measured by exams, and our wider curriculum honours this value.

As we read more about the shrinking radius of play among our children today, it is all the more important that in schools, we offer the opportunity for our young people to engage in the cycle of the natural world, to participate in learning beyond the classroom and begin to value the experiences this can bring. The rewards of those lessons may well sow the seeds of future healthy lives.

Owain Hall is the Assistant Head (Enrichment), at Norwich High School for Girls Discover more at their Open Week from Monday 4 to Friday 8 March 2019. Visit www.norwichhigh.gdst.net to book your place.

Your new dream bathroom is closer than you think

Building better bathrooms for over 60 years

Open Monday-Friday 9am-5.30pm ¡ Saturday 10am-4pm (Closed Sundays/Bank Holidays)

www.shorelinebathrooms.com

Morton Peto Road, Harfreys Industrial Estate, Great Yarmouth NR31 0LT 01493 652073

Bathrooms Ltd.

Social Scene #RNLI

#RNLI

The RNLI Lifeboat Ball at Ocean Room Gorleston

#RNLI

Photos: MALCOLM HIRST

Saturday 12 January

#RNLI

95

Why move when you already live in the home that you love?

New and Used Stairlifts Serviced and Installed If you are looking to finance a Prestige, Sports or Classic Car, we hope you can ‘Bear’ us in mind.

Contact us today

01502 473319

Long established family business HOME VISITS A PLEASURE SCOOTERS - New and Used WHEELCHAIRS RISE & RECLINE CHAIRS STAIRLIFTS

Holt Mobility Centre Making Life Easier

@BearCredit

@BearCredit

www.bearcredit.co.uk

Bear Credit is Authorised and Regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and is a credit broker, not a lender. Finance is subject to status, T&Cs apply.

Tel: 01263 588777

Weybourne Road, Bodham, Holt NR25 6QJ

FAMILY FINANCES

Should you spend now or preserve your estate?

Today’s culture of seizing the moment is changing the way we look at the inheritance we leave for our children. Carl Lamb of Almary Green and Smith & Pinching explores how things have changed.

AS THE post-war “baby boomers” approach retirement, we are seeing them face a new dilemma. Should they squirrel away savings to benefit future generations or should they embrace every opportunity to enjoy life in retirement?

This group are becoming known as the “SKI” generation – Spending the Kids’ Inheritance – and they are having fun in their early retirement years. Pension flexibility is allowing them to vary the income they take in retirement to suit their lifestyles, withdrawing more in the early years while they are fit and healthy with the intention of taking less later on when they are less able. Retirement – for those who do have wealth – has become about building a new, carefree existence, rewarding ourselves for the years of hard graft.

Baby boomers’ children seem to have only moderate expectations from their parents’ estates and, in most cases, are generally happy to let their parents enjoy their wealth while they can. So is family money passed from generation to generation an outdated concept?

In my experience with clients, most retirees do have an eye on the future wellbeing of their heirs. The question they ask me is whether or not they can have it all – enjoy the moment and help the kids.

To get the best of both worlds, it’s critical to plan very carefully and realistically. Investment portfolios may need ongoing management to maintain performance and to generate both income and capital growth, pension withdrawals need to be sensibly managed and wise budgets established.

It’s a numbers game and this is where an independent financial adviser can make a real difference.

The first stage in planning to have it all is to establish exactly what “all” means to you. We call this stage

The first stage in planning to have it all is to establish exactly what ‘all’ means to you. We call this stage identifying your objectives.

Almary Green and Smith & Pinching are Chartered Financial Planners.

If you would like a no cost exploratory review to discuss your financial planning arrangements with an adviser from either Almary Green or Smith & Pinching call today on 01603 789966 or email enquiries@smith-pinching.co.uk

identifying your objectives. This will involve setting your priorities and your aspirations. Discussion around your objectives will reveal what compromises you might be prepared to make in order to achieve your highest priorities. Risk is a core part of this discussion too: we will assess your risk profile in order to ensure that any strategy you adopt sits within the degree of risk with which you are comfortable.

One of the tools we use in this type of case is lifetime cashflow modelling which allows us to consider a wide range of scenarios for you and your wealth. We look at a number of variables including different income and expenditure levels, changes to investment strategies, withdrawals from plans and policies at different times and challenges to your finances such as a future need for long-term care. We can then plot the impact these have on your wealth at different points in your life. Essentially, it will tell us at what point the value of your estate reaches a significant milestone. This might be when growth on the estate has implications for a potential inheritance tax liability or when the estate is eroded to a critical point – perhaps when it reaches a minimum value you’ve set for your estate when you die. If you’ve chosen to SKI, it will tell us when the money will run out.

If you’re a baby boomer and at or near retirement, now is the time to plan.

Whether your highest priority is to enjoy your retirement or to leave your money to your family, looking at the real numbers in the equation will help you make sure you are on track. With good planning, it may well be possible to have it all.

97

Life&Living

PROMOTION

Over&Out never work a day in your life... true for me I guess as I turned a hobby into a successful business.

With the awful press now-days about the decline of the High Street, I’m pleased to say we’re on the up. But fine jewellery is one thing that clients will always want to touch & feel and also having a wellestablished bricks and mortar base helps too.

. .. h it w s e t u n five mi

Mike Lane, goldsmith / jeweller, founder and director of Lanes Jewellery of Holt learned the trade at ‘the bench’ making diamond jewellery alongside Hatton Garden craftsmen before moving to Norfolk in 1981.

What do you like about living in Norfolk?

I feel privileged to live in such a beautiful part of the country. I love the fresh air and that people still say ‘hello’ in the street.

Having said that, even North Norfolk has become quite cosmopolitan these days...

How does Lanes Jewellery make a difference to people’s lives?

We often use the tag line, you dream it we create it. We do exactly that! Creating a bespoke piece of jewellery and bringing a clients vision to life and seeing their reaction is one of the best parts of what I do. I would like to think it makes a difference to clients as that special piece can be cherished and passed down the family to future generations.

What do you most enjoy about working with people and businesses in our region?

A major contributor of Lanes reputation has been word of mouth and I think loyalty, honesty is second nature to the local people here.

98

How is Lanes Jewellery contributing to the growth of the region?

I do like to think we contribute to the ‘draw’ of the town. Lanes has grown significantly over the last 10 years and believe our name is now out there as a go to destination for fine diamonds, jewellery and prestige watches. We have clients from all over the UK (as well as overseas) and if they visit us it must help put Holt and North Norfolk on the map.

Tell us something that people don’t know about you...

At art college in Cambridge my main dilemma was deciding whether to be a hippy or a punk, how things change. I’ve only read two fiction books in my life, give me a user manual and I’m your friend. I’ve always enjoyed finding out how things work or are made, when I was little (yes, smaller) I got a Scalextric set for Christmas and apparently took the cars to bits on boxing day! …. Oh and I have webbed toes, I was delighted to find out Ashton Kutcher has too!

What is your proudest achievement?

Probably building this business over the years to where it is now not forgetting how it began in Holt with a couple of trays of silver rings in 1981.

They say if you love what you do you’ll

Run us through a typical day for you...

No two days are the same. It normally begins with 20 press-ups then a look through emails at breakfast, sometimes much to the disgust of my partner Fiona!

Then to the store, paperwork and some number crunching usually precedes what I love most, putting on my creative hat sitting at the bench and meeting with clients for most of the day.

This is usually interspersed with endless phone calls with dealers, chasing deliveries and listening to staff fighting off cold callers. However many energy companies are out there?

I delegate much more these days, my son Josh has worked alongside me here for 10 years and he now has part of the reins.

I have taught him everything I know he’s really getting to grips with Instagram and Facebook now!

Then home, (probably a bit late) for a relaxing evening before I begin snoring ready to do it all again tomorrow.

What do you like to do when you’re not working?

I have a passion for classic cars so if I’m not tinkering with those it’s spot of DIY. Making stuff and DIY around the house, it’s only like making jewellery but bigger without eye strain. I can’t sit still for 5 minutes, or maybe I can if a bit weary and if the ‘how to’ YouTube video is interesting enough.

I’ve been fortunate enough to have travelled to lots of beautiful destinations over the years but hey, we live near a beautiful coast and Europe isn’t that far away…. If we’re still allowed to visit!

Where do you like to eat and drink?

Fiona is a great cook so we stay in lots.

Having said that The Dun Cow at Salthouse is a regular haunt of ours. A treat at Morston Hall or Benedicts in Norwich run by our friends Richard & Katja never disappoints but am always happy with fish & chips (out of the paper of course!).

Can you sum up Lanes Jewellery in five words?

Inspiring, quality, bespoke, individual, established.

Can you sum yourself up in five words?

Visionary, creative, passionate, determined, workaholic (apparently!).

Established 2000

North Norfolk’s Premier Utopia furniture displaying outlet 5, Norwich Road, North Walsham, Norfolk , NR28 9JP www.pipedreams.org.uk | info@pipedreams.org.uk

01692 503050

'Visit us and be Consulted, Not Insulted' Free Parking At Rear of Showroom

All New Corolla and All New RAV4

ALWAYS A BETTER WAY

Coming soon to SLM Toyota

Contact us today to book your test drive.

SLM Toyota Attleborough Buckenham Road Attleborough NR17 1NB 01953 828 520 www.slm.dingles.co.uk

SLM Toyota Lowestoft London Road South Lowestoft NR33 0AS 01502 322 262 /slmtoyotaeastanglia

SLM Toyota Norwich Delft Way Norwich NR6 6BB 01603 966 361 @SLMToyota