who are duelling each other and baiting a bear, the names Memnon, Valentinus, Secundus and Mario can be seen cut into the pottery. The fate of these men’s lives will be explored in the displays.
The exhibition draws together Roman gladiator artefacts from all over the UK as well as a 'Murmillo Gladiator Helmet’ discovered in Pompeii. It is one of more than twenty objects on loan from the British Museum and is extremely significant for Colchester Museums. It is the first time the helmet has been loaned to a regional museum enabling residents and visitors access to world-class heritage right in the city centre, without the need to travel to London.
Aspectacular new exhibition, Gladiators: A Day at the Roman Games, opens to the public on the 15 July at Colchester Castle – a must-see for anyone fascinated by Roman history and Colchester's historic past!
Visitors will head back 2,000 years into the world of the Roman Games and Gladiatorial Arena in Roman Colchester.
The exhibition will be packed with artefacts from Colchester Museums’ collections, as well as loans from other museums. The star object, from Colchester Museums collection, will be the ‘Colchester Vase’, which made international headlines earlier this year following research revealing Roman gladiators battled at Roman Colchester. Depicting figures of men
The loans in the exhibition are supported by the Weston Loan Programme and Art Fund. Created by the Garfield Weston Foundation and Art Fund, the Weston Loan Programme is the first ever UK-wide funding scheme to enable smaller and local authority museums to borrow works of art and artefacts from national collections.
The exhibits will be displayed in an engaging way, enabling the public to experience what a typical day at the games would have been like. After collecting their ticket to the games and stocking up on Roman ‘fast food’ visitors can enjoy the day’s events: the Morning Beast Hunts; Midday Executions, and Afternoon Gladiatorial Combat. Visitors will even be able to battle the beasts and gladiators of the arena themselves – but will they win their freedom from the arena?
Councillor Michelle Burrows, Portfolio Holder for Leisure, Culture and Heritage said: “Many of us
have preconceived notions about Gladiators from watching films and television. However, this exhibition sets the record straight. Talking about real life gladiatorial combat and entertainment happening right here in Colchester over 2,000 years ago, it's both a visual and intellectual feast and one that I recommend to residents and visitors alike. Colchester has a rich heritage, and the exhibition takes the opportunity to delve deeper into the spectacle of the games, the role of slavery and how events like these were linked to religious beliefs in Roman society.”
Sophia Weston, Deputy Chair of the Garfield Weston Foundation, said: “The Weston Loan Programme exists to help regional museums tell compelling stories through exciting loans that have relevance to local heritage, so we are delighted to support the display of these incredible objects in Colchester.”
Thorsten Opper, Curator of Roman collections at the British Museum said: “This undoubtedly is one of the treasures of the Roman collection and almost never leaves the British Museum. It will give visitors to Colchester's gladiator show a unique
opportunity to see the helmet of a heavy Roman Murmillo gladiator close-up. There are only seven complete helmets of this type preserved world-wide, and all the others are in Italy and were excavated in Pompeii.”
The British Museum is committed to sharing its collection and knowledge as widely as possible and to create positive educational, social and economic impact for people and places across the UK. Our initiatives give everyone the chance to engage with the British Museum’s collection and expertise. Last year nearly 2000 objects were lent to 95 venues, reaching three million people outside of London – one million more than visited the British Museum in the same period.
This exciting exhibition is suitable for the whole family and all content is conveyed with sensitivity.
Entry will be included with admission to Colchester Castle and will be open from the 15 July-14 January 2024.
To find out more please visit
www.colchester.cimuseums.org.uk/ gladiators
This compelling novel set in 1950s Australia, follows the lives of three central characters who embark on an eventful journey together.
Irene Bobs, a strong-willed and determined woman, dreams of winning the legendary Redex Trial, a gruelling endurance race that circumnavigates Australia. Her husband, Titch Bobs, is a car salesman with a passion for racing and an unresolved past. Willie Bachhuber is their troubled and brilliant navigator with an intimate knowledge of maps and an unconventional perspective on life.
As the trio sets off on their ambitious endeavour, they encounter all manner of challenges which brings them into direct contact with the racial tensions of the time. Australia's indigenous population faces discrimination and marginalization, and each character is forced to confront their own biases and prejudices during their voyage.
Relationships gradually become strained and alliances shift, as longhidden secrets and insecurities bubble to the surface.
As the race progresses, the characters' personal journeys intertwine with the larger narrative of a nation struggling to find its identity. Carey uses The Redex Trial as a metaphorical representation of Australia's cultural and social landscape, mirroring the country's quest for a unified identity in the face of its diverse heritage. He weaves together themes of identity, belonging and the legacy of colonialism in a thoughtprovoking novel from which all three characters emerge changed forever.
Marinate for least one hour. This marinade works equally well with oily fish like mackerel.
Spicy Chipotle
Our children’s book this month also centres around a car journey. Mr. Gumpy’s Motor Car is an old book, though I’d never heard of it until my son was given a copy on his first birthday. It’s one of those timeless, charming works that is destined to be loved forever. Mr. Gumpy decides to take a ride in his car. As he sets out on his journey he comes across different animals who all ask to join him. They are the Rabbit, the Cat, the Dog, the Pig, the Sheep, the Chickens, the Calf, the Goat, and the Children. Mr. Gumpy greets them all patiently and cheerfully, though they prove to be quite a rowdy bunch of passengers. When they reach a tricky hill Mr. Gumpy asks for a volunteer to help push the car, but everyone has an excuse as to why they can’t do it, then it starts to rain, and the car becomes stuck. The passengers eventually realise that if they don’t pull together (or rather push together) they will never get home.
The story is deceptively simple and satisfying, which adds to its appeal. Burningham was known for his illustrations, and they are absolutely beautiful. The combination of earthy colours and whimsical characters make the images warm and inviting, and his use of crosshatching adds movement and life to the story. You can see the animals and children jostling for position in the car.
The book’s message about the importance of staying calm and working together to overcome adversity is a positive one, endearingly told.
By Tash Donovan
Answers on page 8
It’s BBQ season. Whether you prefer steak, chicken, haloumi or tofu, marinating infuses them with incredible flavours and enhances their tenderness. Here are our five faves.
Classic Teriyaki Marinade - To create the rich sweet and savoury flavours of this marinade, mix together soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, grated ginger, and a splash of sesame oil. Marinate your meat or veggie alternative for at least 30 minutes, or preferably overnight. The resulting caramelized glaze adds an irresistible sweetness to your grilled fare.
Zesty Lemon Herb Marinade - For a burst of freshness, try a zesty lemon herb marinade. Combine freshly squeezed lemon juice, minced garlic, chopped fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, and parsley, along with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Marinade - A spicy chipotle marinade will tantalize your taste buds. Blend together chipotle paste, lime juice, minced garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and a touch of brown sugar for balance. Allow your meat or tofu to soak for a minimum of two hours before grilling. The smoky, spicy kick will add depth and complexity to your barbecued dishes.
Tangy Balsamic Soy Marinade - Mix balsamic vinegar, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, honey, and a drizzle of olive oil. Marinate for at least one hour, allowing the flavours to meld. The combination of balsamic and soy adds a delightful umami taste to your grilled creations.
Mediterranean Herb MarinadeCombine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, chopped fresh herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme, along with salt and pepper. Marinade for at least one hour before grilling. The aromatic flavours will infuse your BBQ offerings with a taste of the Mediterranean sunshine.
By Louise AddisonFlower Pressing –Pressing flowers is a wonderful way for kids to engage with nature and their creativity. Encourage them to explore their surroundings, identify different flowers and plants, and collect specimens for pressing. Pressed flowers can be used for various crafts such as making greeting cards, or artwork.
Summer is the perfect time to encourage kids to step away from their screens and engage in outdoor activities that are both fun and educational. Here are some of our favourites.
Juggling -
This is a fantastic skill that promotes hand-eye coordination, concentration, and perseverance. Start with basic juggling techniques using soft balls or beanbags. As they progress, they can try juggling with more objects or learn tricks. Juggling a great physical activity, which boosts cognitive skills and focus.
Skipping -
A classic outdoor activity that provides an excellent cardiovascular workout while improving coordination and balance. Start with basic jumps and gradually progress to more complex techniques like crisscross, double-unders, or even group skipping routines. Skipping can also be done with friends, making it a social activity.
Roller-skating -
This is a fun and active outdoor activity that challenges balance and coordination and develops leg strength. Kids can learn to roller skate in a safe environment like a local skate park or a designated skating area. Once they get the hang of it, they can branch out to skills like skating backward, executing turns, or even trying some simple tricks. Roller skating provides an exciting way to stay active while enjoying the summer weather.
Identifying InsectsEncourage your mini entomologist by teaching kids how to identify common insects. Provide them with a guidebook or use online resources to help them recognize different species. Kids can go on nature walks or explore their gardens to spot insects, learn about their habitats, and observe their behaviours. This activity is great for promoting curiosity, environmental awareness, and an understanding of the vital role insects play in our ecosystem.
By Tom HancockAcross
1 Refuse Collector (7)
5 Brown ink (5)
8 Destructive fire, blaze (13)
9 Hand tool (3)
10 Church state (9)
12 Speeding, competing (6)
13 Diverse (6)
15 Freak out, lose it (2,7)
16 Social insect (3)
18 Condition caused by toxic paint and dust (4,9)
20 Inspection, investigation (5)
21 Conference, discussion (7)
1 Aquatic birds (5)
2 Advertising worn by a person (8,5)
3 Hormone produced at night (9)
4 Small lump of gold (6)
5 Ocean (3)
6 Transferring from public ownership (13)
7 Bothered, miffed (7)
11 Lecture hall (9)
12 Finery (7)
14 Hijinks (6)
17 Big cat (5)
19 Place somewhere (3)
Choosing the right suntan lotion and applying it correctly are key to sun safety. Sunscreen helps prevent painful sunburns and protects against long-term damage caused by harmful UV rays.
Look for a broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays. Opt for a minimum sun protection factor (SPF) of 30. Additionally, consider sunscreens that are water-resistant, especially if you plan to swim or engage in water activities. Sunscreens with physical blockers like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide provide an added layer of protection.
Apply sunscreen generously to all exposed areas of skin, including the face, neck, ears, arms, and legs. Don't forget often-missed areas like the back of the neck, tops of the feet, and ears. Pay attention to the lips and use a lip balm with SPF. Apply sunscreen at least 15-30 minutes before going outside to allow it to fully absorb into the skin. For an average sized body aim to use the equivalent of a full shot glass of lotion.
Remember to reapply sunscreen every two hours, or more
frequently if you are sweating or swimming. Even water-resistant sunscreens will wash off and become less effective over time, so be diligent about reapplication. Set reminders or use a timer to ensure you don't forget to reapply, especially during extended periods of sun exposure.
Consider using UV protective clothing for added sun safety. These garments are specifically designed to block harmful UV rays and provide an extra layer of defence. Look for clothing with a UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) rating. The higher the UPF rating, the better the protection. Widebrimmed hats, sunglasses with UV protection, and UV-blocking swimwear are also excellent additions to your sun safety arsenal.
Whenever possible, seek shade during the peak sun hours between 10 am and 4 pm when UV rays are the strongest. If you need to be outside during these hours, use extra caution and ensure you have proper sun protection in place. Plan outdoor activities for the early morning or late afternoon.
Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
Prioritizing sun safety ensures that you can enjoy the outdoors while keeping your skin healthy and protected.
By Tom Hancock
puzzle solutions:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Ingredients
2 courgettes, sliced.
1 red onion, diced.
1 garlic clove, finely chopped.
6 medium or large eggs
3 ripe tomatoes
1tbsp olive oil
salt and black pepper to season
50g crumbled feta (or your favourite cheese)
Cooking time: 25 minutes Serves: 8
Preheat the oven to 180C / Fan 160C Gas mark 4.
Heat the olive oil in an ovenproof pan if you have one or an ordinary frying pan if not, over medium heat, and add the onion, garlic, and courgettes. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until lightly brown.
Add the chopped tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes.
In a separate bowl beat the eggs and season well with salt and pepper. This dish does benefit from being well seasoned.
If your pan is ovenproof pour the egg mixture over the cooked vegetables then crumble the cheese over the top. If you don't have a pan that can be placed directly in the oven, transfer the veg to a casserole dish then pour the eggs and crumbled cheese over.
Bake for about 25 minutes until the frittata is set in the middle and slightly golden on top. Take care not to overcook it, or it will become rubbery in texture. It should look puffy, golden, and have a slight wobble when you move the pan.
Let it cool for 5 minutes then slice into 8 pieces. The cooled frittata will keep
in an airtight container for a couple of days. Eat it cold or reheat in the microwave on a low setting for 30 seconds.
Note:
This is a very adaptable recipe. You can use almost any cooked vegetables and cheese combination.
Wisteria, with its enchanting cascades of fragrant flowers, adds a touch of elegance and charm to any garden. It has a reputation for being slow and difficult, but it’s really not justified. You just need a bit of knowhow.
Select a sunny spot with well-drained soil to plant your wisteria. The ideal time to plant is during early spring or autumn when the plant is dormant. Ensure the planting hole is deep and wide enough to accommodate the root ball and add organic matter to enrich the soil. Provide a sturdy support structure, such as a trellis or pergola, for the wisteria to climb..
This month is one of the pruning months for wisteria. Twice yearly pruning plays a crucial role in shaping and maintaining the growth of the plant while promoting abundant flowering. The other pruning period is during late winter or early spring.
During August, after the flowering period, prune to control the size and shape of the plant. Trim long shoots,
maintaining a balanced framework while retaining a few leaves on each pruned stem. This allows the plant to channel energy into flower production for the following year.
During winter/early spring, remove any dead, damaged, or weak branches. Trim back the previous year's growth to around three to five buds from the main stem. This encourages the formation of flower buds and prevents excessive growth.
Wisteria generally requires moderate watering, especially during dry spells. Water deeply at the base of the plant, providing enough moisture to reach the root system. However, be careful not to overwater, as excessive moisture can lead to root rot. Mulching around the base of the plant helps retain moisture and suppress weed growth.
To promote optimal growth and flowering, fertilize your wisteria annually in early spring. Apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer according to the manufacturer's instructions. This provides the
necessary nutrients to support healthy foliage and abundant blooms.
Wisteria is a vigorous climber, so proper training is essential for creating a visually appealing display. Gently tie and train young shoots to your chosen support structure, guiding them horizontally to encourage the development of flowering spurs along the stems. Regularly check for any tendrils or side shoots that need redirecting to maintain a neat growth pattern.
Although Wisteria is generally hardy, it can be susceptible aphids, caterpillars, and powdery mildew. Regularly inspect your wisteria for signs of infestation or disease and
take appropriate measures to control and treat them promptly. Organic insecticidal soaps or horticultural oils can be effective against pests, but the regular pruning sessions will help with good air circulation, which prevents disease.
If you’re starting from scratch it may take several years before your wisteria starts blooming profusely. Be patient and provide consistent care, and you will be rewarded with a stunning display of flowers in due course. Gardening is often the long-term rewards.
Happy gardening.
By Rachael Leverton
Ice cream and ice lollies have long been cherished treats, especially during the warm summer months in the United Kingdom.
The origins of ice cream can be traced back to ancient China, where it is believed that the Chinese were the first to create a frozen dessert made from milk and rice. From there, the art of making ice cream spread throughout the world. In the UK though, ice cream gained popularity during the 18th century when it became fashionable among the upper classes. Initially, it was a luxury treat reserved for the elite, as the process of making ice cream required access to both ice and expensive ingredients. With the advent of industrialization, ice cream became more accessible
to the masses. In the mid-19th century, the development of artificial refrigeration techniques made it easier to produce and store ice cream. This led to the establishment of ice cream parlours and vendors across the UK, where people could indulge in this delightful frozen dessert. Street vendors and carts became a common sight and in 1958 Mr. Whippy ice cream vans began to appear in Birmingham, founded by Dominic Facchino. Vendors found that by playing a catchy jingle, they could attract more customers. Jingles were often folk songs and to this day Greensleeves is the most-used jingle for ice cream vans.
When it comes to flavours, the UK is very traditional, with vanilla, chocolate
and strawberry topping the popularity charts. But if you prefer to get experimental, search out artisanal ice cream parlours where you can indulge in flavours like peach, blueberry, bubble-gum, or even charcoal coconut (which is actually dark grey!) or maccha and red bean paste (much prettier).
In terms of brands, Walls is pretty iconic in the UK. It was founded in London in the 1780s and quickly became a household name. The other household name, Ben and Jerry’s didn’t arrive in on these shores until 1994!
Whether you prefer a scoop or a tub, there's no denying the charm of cold ice cream on a hot summer’s day. Enjoy! By Kate McCarthy
Returning to school routine after the long summer break can be a challenge for kids. After weeks of relaxation and freedom, there may be some resistance or anxiety about returning to normal routines. Try these tips to make for a smoother start to term.
Gradual Transition - Start preparing for the school routine a week or two before term begins. Gradually adjust bedtimes and wake-up times to align with the school schedule. This will help children readjust their internal clocks and establish a consistent sleep routine.
Implement structure - Establish a daily routine that includes dedicated time for homework, extracurricular activities, relaxation, and socialization. A predictable routine helps children feel a sense of security and control, making the transition smoother.
Open Communication - Create an open and supportive environment for your child to express any concerns about returning to school. Encourage them to share their feelings and listen attentively without judgment. Validate their emotions and offer reassurance to alleviate their anxiety and build confidence.
Visit the School – Arrange a visit to the school before the term starts,
especially if your child is transitioning to a new school. The school doesn’t have to be open. Familiarize them with the journey and the surroundings. This can help alleviate anxiety by creating a sense of familiarity. If you can find a floorplan of the school look for key areas, like the reception, dinner hall and playground.
Connect with Friends - Encourage your child to reconnect with school friends before the term begins. Arrange a playdate or an outing to help them reestablish connection as well as boost their excitement about returning to school.
Positive Reinforcement – Talk about the positive aspects of school, such as reuniting with friends, engaging in favourite subjects, school trips and extracurricular activities. Remind your child of past enjoyable experiences.
Address Anxiety - If your child is very anxious, it's essential to provide additional support. Teach them relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing or mindfulness exercises, to manage anxiety symptoms. Consider seeking professional help from your GP or a therapist who specializes in working with children.
Problem-Solving - If your child refuses to return to school, try to
identify the underlying reasons. It could be related to academic struggles, social difficulties, or bullying. Address the specific concerns by working collaboratively with the school, teachers, or other professionals to find appropriate solutions and support.
Stay Positive - As a parent, maintaining a positive attitude and expressing confidence in your child's ability to navigate the school routine is crucial. Show excitement for the new school year, emphasize the learning
opportunities, and highlight their strengths and abilities.
Remember, each child's needs are unique, and the transition process may take time. Be patient, flexible, and supportive throughout the adjustment period. By implementing these strategies and offering unwavering support, you can help ease your child back into the school routine and set the stage for a successful academic year.
By Sarah Davey
Fill in the grid so that each row, column and 3x3 box, contains the numbers 1 through to 9 with no repetition.
You don’t need to be a genius. These puzzles use logic alone. Watch out! Sudoku is highly addictive.
Will you support St Helena Hospice so patients and their loved ones can receive compassionate care at the end of their life?
While she has been staying at the Hospice, Victoria Oliver has been missing her gelding fell pony, Dan the Man aka Greenholme Falcon, so Dan paid a visit.
melted my heart. We managed to put smiles on so many faces.”
St Helena Hospice helps families to make the most of the time they have together in a compassionate and caring environment. By donating to our spring appeal today, you can give more people the chance to live life how they choose, just like Victoria.
In a fast-paced world where productivity is highly valued, the idea of taking a nap during the day may seem counterintuitive. But emerging research suggests that daytime naps can actually have a positive impact on our well-being and cognitive performance.
One of the primary benefits of daytime napping is its ability to enhance cognitive function and improve overall productivity. Studies have shown that a short nap can help restore alertness, concentration, and memory recall. When we experience a midday slump or a decline in mental acuity, a well-timed nap can counteract these, leaving us feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. By giving our brains a chance to rest and recharge, we can enhance our ability to process information effectively and make better decisions.
The duration of a daytime nap plays a crucial role in reaping its benefits without experiencing grogginess. Experts suggest that a short nap, typically lasting around 10 to 30 minutes, is optimal for most individuals. This length of time allows us to enter a light sleep stage, known as Stage 2, which promotes alertness and aids in memory consolidation. By keeping naps within this timeframe, we can avoid entering deeper sleep stages, which can lead to sleep inertia -a feeling of grogginess upon waking. However, it's important to note that individual preferences and sleep needs can vary, so experimenting with different nap durations can help identify what works best for you.
Aswell as the immediate cognitive benefits, daytime napping has been linked to long-term health
advantages. Research has shown that regular napping can reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, and high blood pressure. Napping has also been associated with improved immune function, stress reduction, and mood regulation. By incorporating short naps into our daily routine, we can take proactive steps toward maintaining our overall well-being. While daytime napping can be advantageous, it's essential to consider potential downsides. Longer naps, particularly those exceeding 60 minutes, can lead to sleep inertia, causing grogginess and difficulty in returning to full wakefulness. Additionally, napping too close to bedtime can disrupt nighttime sleep, leading to difficulties falling asleep or maintaining a consistent sleep schedule. It's crucial to be mindful of nap timing and duration to strike the right balance between recharging and preserving nighttime sleep quality.
If you are prone to insomnia or have irregular sleep patterns it's advisable to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the best approach to incorporate daytime napping without negatively affecting your nighttime sleep.
Nanna naps (so called because of their association with grandmas) can be highly beneficial for our overall wellbeing and cognitive performance. They can provide a quick recharge, enhance alertness, and boost productivity. By understanding the benefits and limitations of daytime napping, we can harness its power to optimize our productivity and enhance our overall well-being.
By Louise AddisonVictoria said: “It means the world to me to see Dan. I last saw him a couple of months ago, so it’s been a long time since I have been near a horse, the longest time ever, so it means a lot to me.
“The other patients came out to see him too and stroke him, and that
We urgently need your support to continue to provide vital care to people across north east Essex and ensure we are here to support and care for future generations. Please donate today at www.sthelena.org.uk/spring
Do you find yourself stressed about keeping the kids entertained during the school holidays? Everything is so expensive or takes so much planning. So, you might be relieved to know that there is growing evidence to suggest that a little boredom can be highly beneficial for children.
Boredom has long been regarded as a negative experience, but recent research suggests otherwise, particularly when it comes to children. Allowing kids to experience moments of boredom can actually foster their creativity. When children are left to their own devices without structured activities, they are compelled to invent their own entertainment. This unstructured time encourages them to tap into their imagination, problemsolving skills, and resourcefulness, thus fostering creativity and independent thinking.
Boredom also acts as a catalyst for curiosity. When children have idle time, they are more likely to explore their surroundings, ask questions, and seek out new experiences. By allowing moments of boredom, we create an environment that stimulates this curiosity and encourages children to discover new interests and pursue self-directed learning. It is during these unstructured moments that children may stumble upon hidden talents or develop hobbies that can shape their future.
On the other hand, overscheduling kids' free time can have negative consequences. In today's fast-paced society, children's schedules are often packed with extracurricular activities, playdates, and organized outings. While these activities can offer valuable learning opportunities and
social interactions, they can also lead to stress and burnout. Overscheduling also robs children (and their parents) of the chance to unwind, reflect, and engage in activities of their own choosing.
It restricts their ability to make decisions and develop a sense of autonomy. Without downtime, children may feel overwhelmed and experience a lack of balance in their lives.
‘That’s all very well,’ you might say, ‘But if I didn’t schedule all the activities and visits my child would spend six straight weeks playing Mario Kart.’ As a parent you do have the option of restricting video and computer time, which would undoubtedly provoke cries of ‘I’m bored!’ and encourage other forms of play, but then you could just surrender and allow them to unwind in the way they choose. We tend to demonise video games, but they do encourage teamwork, strategy, and problem-solving. Plus, as adults we choose what to do with our downtime, and sometimes we only have the emotional energy to binge-watch Netflix! Why should we deny our kids the same luxury? If you are concerned about sedentary screen time, maybe insist that for every two hours they play video games they spend two hours doing something active outside instead.
Embracing a bit of boredom during the school holidays can have a positive impact on children's creativity and curiosity. By striking a balance and embracing the power of boredom, parents can provide their children with a well-rounded and enriching holiday experience, as well as reducing their own stress levels.
By Tracey AndersonThe Visit Colchester gift shop inside Hollytrees Museum is thrilled to announce that they have been chosen to be an exclusive stockist for the latest artwork from Dutch Quarter Industries.
The simply stunning ‘Colchester by Night’ limited edition print celebrates the origins of the poem ‘The Star’ which was written by Jane Taylor in 1806 in Colchester. Today this poem is better known all over the world as the famous nursery rhyme Twinkle Twinkle Little Star and is beloved by millions of people.
Elizabeth Trustum, the creative force behind Dutch Quarter Industries worked together with fellow artist Hilda Hiong for over four months planning, designing and printing a limited print run of just one hundred of these special artworks, some of which are now on sale in the Visit Colchester shop.
The nearby Colchester Castle Gift Shop will also be stocking some of their prints. These will depict constellations in the night sky above the house on West Stockwell Street, Colchester, that Jane Taylor and her sister Ann, who was also an author and poet, lived in from 1796-1811.
Councillor Michelle Burrows, Portfolio Holder for Leisure, Culture and
Heritage said: “It’s wonderful to hear that the Visitor Information Centre and Colchester Castle have been chosen as stockists for these special prints. A portion of the profits from each sale of the prints will be split between two charities close to Elizabeth’s heart, the Colchester Children’s Counselling Service and Stepping Stones Play and Learn Nursery.
“These charming prints make a wonderful gift or memento of a visit to Colchester and have the added delight of supporting two local charities.”
For anyone interested in purchasing these prints head to the Visit Colchester shop in Hollytrees Museums or Colchester Castle during opening hours.
For enquiries or more information please contact the Visit Colchester Team on 01206 282920 or at vic@ colchester.gov.uk
