Village People Norfolk / Suffolk border edition – February & March 20 (Early Spring)

FEBRUARY / MARCH 2020

Norfolk/Suffolk border edition

COMMUNITY / LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE OF THE YEAR

LIFE AND WORK off artist ti t K Kay Oh Ohsten t

The Dirty Dozen and Clean 15

WIN World Book Day on 5th March Needle Felt in Norfolk, crafting is cool!

WIN rock tickets at The Waterfront Memories of Roydon

£100

JARROLD VOUCHE R

MAKE THE MOVE TODAY!

PART EXCHANGE* WITH US IN

2020!

Images shows St Mary’s View exterior

The easy way to get moving to a select location!

The new year is a time for new beginnings and what better than a move to St Mary’s View, a stylish development of 3, 4 & 5 bedroom executive detached homes and 3 bedroom bungalows. Set in beautiful rural surroundings and with excellent transport links, no matter if you are a first-time buyer, growing family or you’re looking for your new forever home, this select development is sure to perfectly match your needs.

Plus, with our Helping Hands Assisted Move scheme or Part Exchange there is no better time to make the move.*

Our Marketing Suite & Show Homes are open Thurs - Mon, 10am - 5pm.

St Mary’s View Thornham Road, Gislingham, Suffolk IP23 8HP

Tel: 01379 353 695 *Part exchange T&Cs apply and cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer.

2

@lovell_uk /lovellhomes

lovell.co.uk

We are East Anglia’s only Master Installer of Luxury Vinyl Tiles and Amtico approved fitter and retailer.

Making Luxury Affordable

CARPETS, LUXURY VINYL TILES, WOOD FLOORING, DESIGN FLOORS, MOTIFS, VINYLS, NATURAL FLOORING, DOMESTIC AND CONTRACT SPECIALISTS Eye Flooring are a family run local business situated in the thriving market town of Eye. We are ideally located to supply and install flooring across Norfolk and Suffolk.

VISIT US TODAY

01379 870 190

www.eyeflooring.co.uk info@eyeflooring.co.uk Broad Street | Eye | IP23 7AF 3

Buy Direct frrom the

Manufacturer

Kitchens don't need to cost the earth *Fully Bespoke & Standard Sizes *Extensive Ranges from Gloss to Painted & everything in between *All kitchens manufactured locally in Norfolk *Kitchens supplied complete with doors pre-hung *Family run business with over 30 Years experience

Telephone 01379 674363 sales@voyagerkitchens.com

www.voyagerkitchens.com

Contact us for a no obligation quote and see how we compare 4

Contents FEBRUARY / MARCH 2020

Out & About 8

Good news from our region

12 Poetry corner Dee Len from Attleborough

Home & Garden 20 Walking for health around Caistor St Edmund

23 The dirty dozen and clean 15 25 Village notice board 28 Help to reduce the waste we produce

30 49 Memories of Roydon 53 WIN ÂŁ100 Jarrold voucher 55 Neil Lanham shares stories

30 Art - the life and work of

from our region

artist Kay Ohsten

33 Get active and try Scottish Country Dancing

56 World Book Day on 5 March 59 WIN tickets to see Don Airey (Deep Purple) and Brian Downey (Thin Lizzy)

61 Jennifer Saunders talks about her upcoming play at Theatre Royal Norwich

Shopping, Health & Beauty 63 Why felt crafting is cool!

56 35 Gospel from The Saints

65 Healthcare with Geraldine Walters

66 Falcon Meadow – the end of the beginning?

69 Refreshing Waters a gladiator for the gospel

71 Fashion - embrace the two-tone trend this spring

Jobs, Money & Business 73 Smart money secrets - spring cleaning your finances

75 Regional reads what we are loving this issue

76 Find a local business or service in our directory

78 Exercise your brain cells with our crossword

36 Nature - spring in the Claylands

39 Canine behaviour with Julia Collins

41 Vegan recipe for courgettie spaghetti with kale pesto

43 The Garden Enclosure Jottings

44 On your plot signs of spring life

47 Recipe for lumberjack slices

36

Are you looking for a particular product or service?

Check out our Local Business Directory on pages 76 & 77 5

Over 200 Day Excursions every year

A selection of 2020 holidays 10th Apr 20th Apr 1st May 14th May 18th May 25th May 31st May 8th Jun 15th Jun 25th Jun 4th Jul 23rd Jul 25th Jul 9th Aug

Chocolate Box Cotswolds – 4 days £349 Springtime in Llangollen – 5 days £499 Jersey by Air – 7 days £699 Two Castle & A Chateau – 5 days £499 Edinburgh & the Scottish Borders – 5 days £499 A Rye Look at Kent & Sussex – 5 days £499 An Irish Jaunt – 6 days £685 The English Riviera – 5 days £475 Exploring the Isle of Wight – 6 days £525 Gorgeous Gower Peninsula – 5 days £485 Cruising the Spectacular River Rhine – 8 days from £1049 Waterways, Rails & The BBC – 5 days £525 Tatton Park Flower Show – 3 days £295 Highgrove & High Class Motors – 5 days £559

To Book Call 01379 647300 or visit www.simonds.co.uk

Private Hire

Garage Services

Tel: 01379 647300 www.simonds.co.uk info@simonds.co.uk

MOT from £39.95 Service & repairs on all makes & models l MOT Class 4,5 & 7 tested call for details l Collection & delivery service/Courtesy Car* l Friendly reliable service l

MOT Offer excludes Saturdays. Re-test fee applies if required

Roswald House, Oak Drive, Diss, Norfolk IP22 4GX

Pick-ups are South Norfolk and North Suffolk (home collection available on all holidays)

LEAPING HARE RESTAURANT & CAFÉ • COUNTRY STORE VINEYARD • GARDENS • SATURDAY FA RME RS’ MARKE T

‘ONE OF THE TOP 10 FARMERS’ MARKETS IN THE COUNTRY’ THE TIMES

‘IT DOESN’T PUT A FOOT WRONG’ JAY RAYNER THE OBSERVER

‘THE MODEL OF WHAT A GOOD SHOP SHOULD BE’ COUNTRY LIVING MAGAZINE

OPEN DAILY 10AM - 5PM • SAT 9AM - 5PM • FRI & SAT EVENINGS FROM 7PM FARMERS’ MARKET EVERY SATURDAY 9AM - 1PM WYKEN ROAD, STANTON, SUFFOLK, IP31 2DW • 01359 250287 • WYKENVINEYARDS.CO.UK

6

Welcome

I always love hearing from readers, especially when they send great ideas to improve our magazine.

So starting in this issue, we are showing where we hid Bella the The VP drea m team!

Beagle in the previous magazines. If I had a pound for every reader who has emailed me to ask for a clue, or to tell me Bella isn’t there, I’d be in the Bahamas right now!

WIN

ROCK TICKETS TO SEE

DON AIREY (Deep Purple) AND BRIAN DOWNEY (Thin Lizzy)

ADVERTISE WITH US!

Reliably delivered by Royal Mail, reaching 61,000 homes every two months. Four editions of Village People provide unrivalled coverage of South Norfolk, reaching more homes than ANY other local magazine. For more information, call our friendly team on 01284 788623 or send an email to editor@village-people.info Front cover image kindly supplied

by Andrew Atterwill @andrewatterwill

It seems that we have made it trickier lately, but I can assure you that Bella is always present and correct in every magazine. So take a look at the updated Bella page in this magazine and you can find out where she was in the previous one. She is also offering a new prize of a £100 Jarrold voucher, so for your chance to win just follow the instructions on the page.

I was in Waitrose in Eaton a few days before Christmas and I bumped into a previous boss. You know who you are, MB! I hadn’t seen him in several years, but we chatted and reminisced about the days working in the bank in the late 80s and early 90s. We blocked the food aisles and the shop was manic…after all, it was closing for one whole day!

He congratulated me on the success of Village People, and I didn’t tell him at the time but he was my favourite boss to work for!

We are in the process of replacing our Ladies who Lunch feature, expanding it so it covers dining at all times of the day, from breakfast to evening meals. We’ll be kicking off with the first review in our Late Spring issue, so if you run a local cafe or restaurant and you’d like to give your business a boost with a food review, please drop me an email to find out more.

Do please keep sending me emails with news of local stories or ideas for features and I’ll be back at the end of March, when hopefully we will all be surrounded by spring flowers and signs of life in our gardens.

Lily

Follow us on Twitter and Instagram @vpmagazine Read all our magazines issuu.com/villagepeoplemag

FEBRUARY / MARCH 2020

South Norfolk edition

COMMUNITY / LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE OF THE YEAR

WORLD BOOK DAY on 5th March

The Dirty Dozen and Clean 15

LIFE AND WORK OF

artist ti t K Kay Ohsten

WIN

NEXT DEADLINE

26 February

Lily Goulder editor@village-people.info 01284 788623

Visit our website to find out more www.village-people.info

FEBRUARY / MARCH 2020

South Norwich edition

COMMUNITY / LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE OF THE YEAR

THE DIRTY DOZEN AND CLEAN 15

World Book Day on 5th March

FEBRUARY / MARCH 2020

April / May (Late Spring issue) Norfolk/Suffolk border edition

COMMUNITY / LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE OF THE YEAR

LIFE AND WORK off artist ti t Kay K Ohsten Oh t

Bella agle the Be

The Dirty Dozen and Clean 15

FEBRUARY / MARCH 2020

Bungay & Harleston edition

COMMUNITY / LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE OF THE YEAR

LIFE AND WORK off artist ti t Kay K Ohsten Oh t

THE LIFE AND WORK OF ARTIST

World Book Day on 5th March THE DIRTY DOZEN AND CLEAN 15

Kay Ohsten

£100

JARROLD VOUCHE R

WIN

£100 OLD

JARR R VOUCHE

World Book Day on 5th March

WIN

£100

JARROL VOUCH D ER

WIN

0 £10OLD

JARR VOUCHER

WINNER of five National Publishing Awards 7

Good News from our region FREE TICKETS TO SEE BRASS BAND The East Anglian Brass Band Association is delighted to announce its Brass For Youth Project 2020, and are offering lucky youngsters free concert tickets.

Association Secretary, Christine Wade, said: “On 31 May we are welcoming the Leyland Band to St Andrew’s Hall, Norwich, to present our 82nd Gala Concert. Thanks to support from the Norwich Freemen’s Charity, we are able to offer up to 200 young brass musicians aged 16 or under from Norfolk and Suffolk a free ticket to the concert.”

The concert is preceded by a Solo & Quartet contest in Blackfriars Hall, Norwich, consisting of junior and senior slow melodies, air varies and quartets. Anyone wishing to apply for free tickets or requiring more information about the Solo & Quartet contest should email administration@eabba.org.uk

Countryside Café

Open 7 Days A Week 9am - 4pm Mon-Sat Sunday 10am - 4pm

Join us for Breakfast, Lunch, Afternoon Tea or a Private Function any day of the week

Come & Enjoy Our Unique Country Style Café Situated Within GWC Equestrian Centre, Overlooking Beautiful Open Countryside.

Cycle & Dog Friendly

Have You Tried It Yet? 01379 388 193 8

Tickets are on sale to the general public for £13 and £15 if bought before 31 March, or £15 and £17 respectively after that date. To buy tickets email administration@eabba. org.uk or telephone 07934 169721.

Tue 9:30a - Wed m - 2p m Thur - Fri 9:30a m - 4:3 0pm Sat 10am- Sun - 4pm

WE R DELIVE

From Big to Small We Do It All

PET & ANIMAL FEED BEDDING & SUPPLIES POULTRY PRODUCTS POINT OF LAY CHICKENS ofter Salt & Much More So

01379 384 801

Vicarage Road, Wingfield IP21 5RB

ww ww.pottersfeedstore.com

Good News

SCULPTURE IS MOVING! Waveney & Blyth Arts’ 7th outdoor sculpture event, Sculpture in the Valley 2020, is moving to a new location this year. Previously sited at The Raveningham Centre, the event will now be hosted by Potton Hall, Westleton, which is close to Dunwich Forest in the Blyth valley area of Suffolk.

Annually attracting thousands of visitors to the region, the event moves location every three years

around the Waveney and Blyth valleys to reach new audiences and explore different landscapes.

Genevieve Rudd, the new Chair of Waveney & Blyth Arts (WBA), said: “2020 marks WBA’s 10th birthday, so we wanted to develop this year’s sculpture event to celebrate our legacy of connecting art with landscape and place over the past decade.

“Potton Hall is situated along the Suffolk Coast & Heaths Area

of Outstanding Natural Beauty, within the Blyth river valley area of our patch. The new site for 2020 offers an opportunity for artists to explore a distinct environment – from the domestic planted gardens to the wildflower meadow set against the rugged Dunwich woodland.

“We have devised the theme ‘Reflections on Landscape’ which asks artists to consider ideas about scale, perspectives and the interaction between wild and cultivated aspects of the landscape.

“It’s important to note that we are living in the context of climate crisis and this, along with broader perspectives on the landscapes we live in and our relationships with it, could be compelling ideas for artists to explore.”

Sculpture in the Valley 2020 takes place between Saturday 18 July and Sunday 2 August.

Water Softeners Friendly local expertise “Obviously a quality company employing quality people”

A DV I C E | S E R V I C E | S A L E S | R E N TA L

Tel: 01728 746 764 WWW.KINDWATER.CO.UK 9

Good News

SAINSBURY CENTRE, NORWICH, BRINGS ON THE STYLE This spring, two of the most loved and referenced styles of the 20th century will be celebrated by the exhibitions Art Deco by the Sea (9 Feb - 14 June) and Art Nouveau: The Nature of Dreams (29 Mar - 13 Sep) at the Sainsbury Centre, Norwich.

Art Deco by the Sea is a celebration of British coastal culture which looks at how Art Deco became the seaside style.

From resorts and hotels to cinemas and amusement parks, iconic examples of architecture will reveal how Art Deco altered th he look k off th he British h seaffront.

This exhibition of over 150 works will also shine a light on interiors and fashion, with striking designs from renowned manufacturers such as Poole Pottery, ECKO radios and Crysède textiles.

Art Nouveau: The Nature of Dreams examines the spectacular and controversial vision of art practice that raged across the western world from the end of the 19th century: Art Nouveau.

EXPERIENCED

MOLE CATCHER ✔Domestic ✔ Commercial ✔ Agricultural NO MOLE NO FEE Fully Insured Call Tim Today:

01379 890333 07801 297152 10

New Brighton & Wallasey Artwork by Septimus Edwin Scott, published by London Midland and Scottish Railway Company Poster, 1923-1947. © National Railway Museum/Science & Society Picture Library

Good News A dazzling selection of ceramics, furniture, glass, jewellery, paintings, posters and prints, sculpture and textiles will be on display, featuring interpretations of nature and the creation of a modern style. Artists and designers will include René Lalique, Edgar Degas, Charles Rennie Mackintosh, William Morris; Alphonse Mucha and Gabriel Dante Rossetti.

WIN PAIR OF TICKETS

Orchid Brooch, Georges Fouquet, France, 1898-1901.

Gold, pearls, mother of pearl, pliqué à jour enamel. h. 10.0 cm. Acquired 1978. Anderson Collection of Art Nouveau.

Village People has a pair of tickets to give away to see Streisand: The Music, The Lady, The Legend - at Theatre Royal Bury St Edmunds on 5 March.

The iconic sound of the music and film legend is brought to life in this brand new production, which is touring theatres across the country. Accompanied by a stunning live band, ‘Streisand’ vocalist Winter combines superb pitch and vocals into her delivery of some of the most beautifully crafted songs ever written or

performed, such as Send In The Clowns, Don’t Rain on my Parade, Woman In Love, Evergreen, Tell Him, The Way We Were and many more. Don’t miss this wonderful evening of music. Good luck.

How to enter Visit www.village-people.info and follow the links to the competition page. Closing date is Thursday 27 February 2020 and the usual Village People rules apply

IF YOU HAVE SOME GOOD NEWS TO SHARE EMAIL US AT editor@village-people.info

Wingfield Barns KNIGHT & SPIERS

Sat 22nd Feb, 7.30pm £15

NW NORFOLK WOODBURNERS

SUPPLY & INSTALLATION OF WOODBURNERS Norfolk’s agent for Aga, Hunter & Parkray Stoves

CHRIS WOOD

Sat 7th March, 7.30pm £14 JIMMY ALDRIDGE & SID GOLDSMITH

Sun 29th March, 7.30pm £14/£12

To book, call the Box Office on 01379 384505 or visit www.wingfieldbarns.com Church Road, Wingfield, IP21 5RA

01508 498393 www.norfolkwoodburners.co.uk

11

Poetry

Poetryy Corner EN M Y ID EA OF HE AVed Heaven We love these beautiful poems by Dee Len, 66, who moved to Norfolk just a year ago. Retired and living in Attleborough, Dee has a passion for writing…as you can see!

Dee Len

M Y LE TT ER

in calligraphy I wish I could write a piece of art like k Make a letter loo a perfect style Hold my hand in curl with a flourish or e Start each strok

n into some ink I could dip my pe uidgy bit sq le litt a t jus Take ps from the tip dri me Wipe away so ve new quip Then create a bra parchmentt hovering over the Imagine my quill, pty scathed and em As it sits blank, un make first contact I ly us xio an Whilst ep gle swee , a stroke one sin sh uri A tiny dot, a flo together rves and angles fit As, slowly, the cu ter let e lov ct perfe And I master the art spun from my he A piece of poetry aper the pa es ess car n pe y my While triumphantl strokes page with gentle As it touches the t Of old English fon single moment ch ea ise tic an I rom at your fingertips. en op l fal When it will

ce call If indeed there iss a pla ce for me spa be l will re the e I hop best my e don I haven’t always ne much less ve don ’ I es tim re’s the t fac In ous things Wasted effort on ridicul e h a quarrelsome attitud wit e tim ch Spent too mu uty bea her all in ure Forgotten mother nat ss in all my fury Just turned to darkne a place I’d like to think there is clouds on t floa s am dre ere Wh t space hou oug thr e And continu tle harmony gen in g sin els ang ile Wh head Where I might rest my t of me par ry eve My heart and and my essence free led hea am I e onc n The for thee. g sin to ce pla To take my

TH E HO UR GL AS S

Th he weight of time slow ly fell in granules of san d Wh hile each grain tumble d into the void below It travelled as from the neck of a womb An nd arriving into the wor ld Witth nothing halting its progress aft fter t its descent has beg un Just tiny wisps of dust that fall, released from the tide above As quickly it shiffts t its bulk and joins the inevitable flow Nev ver to stop Botth weight and measu re give way to the calculu s of gravity ty y To leave only an empty ty y glass behind Awaiting to be refilled In an endless circle of time.

Are you a poet from Norfolk or Suffolk? If so, we’d love to hear from you! Email a selection of poems and a bit about you to editor@village-people.info for the chance to be featured in a future issue.

12

300Mbps

Only £20.00 per month*

Affordable Hyperfast broadband is coming to Norfolk...

Find out if you can get connected by visiting www.countybroadbandfibre.co.uk and entering your postcode. Or call us on 01376 562002.

Get #futureready *£20.00 per month for the first six months. £40.00 per month thereafter.

Option to continue at £20.00 per month and drop to a speed of 50Mbps.

13

Talks, Demonstrations & Workshops at during February & March

7th & 28th February 10am - 12.30pm Clematis Workshop with Peter Skeggs-Gooch of Thorncroft Clematis

£21.95 includes tea/coffee & cake 20th February 7pm - 10pm

Weird & Wonderfuls of the Plant Kingdom Talk with Barry Gayton £24.95 includes a 2 course meal

The Park

Hotel

Hotel, Bar Restaurant

12th March 7pm - 10pm

Help our Hedgehogs Talk

with Hodmedod’s Hedgehog Support

£24.95 includes a 2 course meal 18th March 10am - 12.30pm

Hand Lotion Making Demonstration with Helen of Made in Norfolk

£24.95 includes tea/coffee & cake

Photo credit: Made in Norfolk

Visit our website for more details or to book

London Road Attleborough NR17 1AY 01953 454707 www.classicroses.co.uk Mon-Sat: 9-5; Sun & Bank Holidays: 10-4

Using our years of experience and extensive knowledge we can offer a stress free experience!

Bar & Restaurant ✓Restaurant ✓Bar Snacks ✓Sunday Carvery ✓Food Served all day 19 En suite rooms ✓Bridal suite ✓Holiday cottage ✓Flat Screen TVs ✓Family Rooms Weddings & Events ✓Marriages ✓Conferences ✓Entertainment ✓Family Parties

To make a booking call 01379 642244 or email info@parkhotel-diss.co.uk www.parkhotel-diss.co.uk

High quality, secure and stylish.

Garage Doors, Gates, Awnings and Automatic Blinds supplied, installed and repaired.

NEW Automatic Roller Blinds

Visit our Diss showroom to view our range of high quality products and talk to our friendly team about the perfect solution for your home.

Diss 01379 651959 Ipswich 01473 226509 www.chapeldoors.co.uk 14

Security

Security

Protecting your home and business from burglars for 15 years

A

former London engineer who started a security company from scratch is celebrating his successful business’ 15th year of keeping people safe.

Malthouse Security, based near Diss, works to make homes, businesses and sheltered housing safer, installing everything from intruder alarms and CCTV to fire warning systems.

As part of its birthday celebrations, the company has pledged to continue raising vital funds for the Teenage Cancer Trust charity (www. teenagecancertrust.org), after one of the engineers lost his teenage son to leukaemia.

Malthouse Security owner Peter George, whose company now employs nine staff with contracts right across East Anglia, said: “Safety is a number one priority for many homes and businesses, and we want to play our part in reducing the break-ins and thefts that invade people’s privacy and cause

so much emotional distress.

“We pride ourselves on being a company that is small enough – in terms of staff and subcontractor numbers – to encourage a family friendly approach and long service, and yet big enough to handle a variety of contraccts with a personal touch.”

A number of staff have been with Malthouse Security for many years, including Mark Flatters, who joined as a trainee and has risen to become Service Director.

Malthouse Security is a certificated company in CCTV and intruder alarm systems with the Security Systems and Alarms Inspection Board.

Further details about the company can be found at www.malthouse-security.co.uk, by calling 01379 890606 or emailing sales@malthouse-security.co.uk

15

We are an original true family, local business that has been proud to serve the Stowmarket, Diss, Bury St Edmunds and surrounding areas since 1984 with traditional values.

Your One Stop TV & Home Electrical Shop Stockists of SONY KDL50WG663 KDL50W 50” Freeview HD TV with one touch YOUTUBE BUTTON and many more

YOU CAN VISIT OUR SHOWROOMS AT UNIT 2, CHARLES IND EST, STOWMARKET, IP14 5AH

EXCEPTIONAL VALUE AT JUST

01449 674881

£479

UNIT 14, BUNTING ROAD, BURY ST EDMUNDS IP32 7BX

01284 718686 Diss 01379 788164

5 YEAR TY AN WARR

TV aerials and Satellite installed and repaired

We are open weekdays ays 9 - 5.30pm 5 30pm and Saturdays 9 - 5pm.

5pm

andy@andys-aerials.co.uk | www.andys-aerials.co.uk

OUTDOOR BURNERS/WOOD STOVES | WOOD AND MULTI-FUEL STOVES | GAS FIRES | WOOD FUELS | ACCESSORIES

Heat your home in style With our carefully selected range of stoves and wonderfully presented showroom we offer a design to suit all tastes, whether you are looking for a Victorian traditional stove or a sharp lined contemporary look we are guaranteed to meet your requirements.

Visit our showroom and take a tour of our wonderful stoves 16

Malting’s Barn, Hinderclay Road, Wattisfield, Diss, Suffolk, IP22 1NF T: 01379 671 168 E: info@nexusstoves.co.uk www.nexusstoves.com

A New Year’s resolution to take control of her life saw Sharon lose eight stone - in 10 months A 49-year-old woman who was struggling to climb the stairs and suffering with asthma lost eight stone before her 50th birthday.

never have lost my seven stone 11 years ago without one-to-one support from someone who had also lost weight and been there.

Sharon Williamson made a New Year’s resolution to lose weight and take 1:1 diet coach control of her life – and John at 21 stone with the help of one-to-one support she slimmed from 19st to 11st in just 10 months. She threw out her 22/24 dress size and looks years younger in a size 12.

Exercise is not essential, but it will help as you lose weight through both your healthy eating and exercising. Walking, cycling and swimming for 30 minutes are all great ways to get started, burning off extra calories to speed your losses.

Sharon recalled how she used to eat huge meals and had no idea of portion control: “I ended up feeling uncomfortable in my own skin, unhappy with my weight and how I looked, and increasingly concerned about the damage I was doing to my health,” she said.

With the right approach, and the right one-to-one support, it really is possible to lose a stone every month, and be happy with your weight again.

Sharon brought in permanent changes to her food choices, enjoyed smaller portions at regular meal times and drank two litres of water daily.

We all need help sometimes, like Sharon. I could

1:1 diet coach John Howard lost 7 stone after 5 months, 11 years ago

Award winning diet coach John Howard and his fiancée Katie, a nurse, support dieters on a one-to-one basis at Eye and Stowhealth centre in Stowmarket to lose about a stone a month and no longer be unhappy with their weight. They can be contacted on 07872 314653, or by email at john@live-everyday.co.uk

17

Highclere Castle & Hampshire Sunday 19th Thursday 23rd July 2020

www.eastonsholidays.co.uk Price Includes

Day 1: Following your home taxi collection we make our way to the Norton Park Hotel in Sutton Scotney for our four night stay on a dinner, bed & breakfast basis.

Day 2: This morning we visit the Museum of Army Flying. Charting over 100 years of the British Army in the air, with over 35 fixed wing and rotary aircraft on display. We continue our day with a visit to the Sir Harrold Hillier Gardens, a 180-acre site with over 42,000 plants from around the world.

Norton Park Hotel **** Sutton Scotney

On the outskirts of Winchester, Norton Park is a 4-star hotel blending beautiful contemporary chic with historical elegance all set within 54 acres of peaceful grounds. It features a leisure club with an indoor swimming pool, sauna & steam room. There is a lift at this hotel but rooms with walk-in showers are on a request basis only. All en-suite rooms have TV, telephone, ironing facilities, hairdryer, fridge, safe and hospitality tray.

5 Days £562

l 4 nights dinner, bed & breakfast l Return door to door taxi service

l Luxury coach travel

CALL 01603 754155

OR VISIT OUR WEBSITE TO BOOK YOUR PLACE

18

Day 3: Following a morning visit to Newbury, we continue to Highclere Castle - one of England’s most beautiful Victorian Castles set amidst 1,000 acres of parkland. The castle featured as Downton Abbey in the popular TV series. We spend the afternoon exploring the castle, and the rare Egyptian antiquities in the Egyptian Exhibition. The 5th Earl with Howard Carter discovered the tomb of Tutankhamun in the Valley of the Kings in 1922 and the beautiful gardens.

Day 4: This morning we visit Jane’s Austen’s House in Chawton. Here we view the extensive collection of her work and memorabilia. This afternoon we board our train for a return journey over the “Hampshire Alps” onboard the ’The Watercress Line’.

Day 5: We depart for the return journey to Norfolk, where our door to door service will be waiting to return you home.

Glass & Windows

Ltd

www.strattonglasswindows.co.uk

 FENSA

Registered

 Trading Standards Approved Code

 10 Year

Warranties

 Insurance Backed Warranty

Improving Local Homes Since 1979

Windows

Front & Back Doors

French & Bifold Doors

Solid Roofs

Conservatories

Orangeries

Local

Caring family run company

10 Year Est.1979 Warranties you can rely on

Trading for almost 40 years!

Honest No high pressure sales

Fair

High quality for fair prices

Diss: (01379) 647332 Long Stratton: (01508) 531321 Call for a FREE brochure

Visit our showrooms

Book a FREE design visit

Visit our website: www.strattonglasswindows.co.uk 19

Local walks

WALKING FOR Health CAISTOR ST EDMUND

Reviewed by Dougie Dingwall, Volunteer Co-ordinator at Central Norfolk Walking for Health DIRECTIONS

Walk Information Parking

Caistor Roman Town car park, Stoke Road, Caistor St. Edmund, Norfolk NR14 8QL

Wheelchair/ Buggy Friendly

No

Grid Ref

Map 237: TG232032

Walk Length (Miles / Km)

4.4/7.1

Approx Time

1 hour 30 minutes

Footpath Type / Quality

Grass footpaths and country lanes, 20% firm, 80% soft surface

Gradients

Moderate

Public Toilets

Yes, if the church is open, but only after the walk

Emergency Access Points

T

Yes

his walk is mainly on Footpaths or Permissive paths on High Ash Farm. It is particularly nice in the spring and summer when there are areas of wildflowers. There is also lots of history here, so do read the information boards around the walk.

Exit the car park on Stoke Road with the Roman Town behind you and carefully cross the busy road, walking through a gate with ‘High Ash Farm’ on it. Turn right and walk along a field edge with the road on your right. Continue along this path, crossing a plank bridge, until you meet a country lane to the left.

Continuing on the field edge, turn left and walk to the top of the incline, crossing a small stream on the way by walking a few metres on the road.

You will then meet another country road. Ignoring the road to the left, continue straight on along Chandler Road, again on a field edge, with the road on your right.

On reaching a large hedge, exit right onto the road and continue in the same direction. Ignoring two footpaths off to the right, continue along this road until you reach Valley Farm Lane off to the left.

Go down it and continue until you are past Valley Farm on the right. As the road bends to the left, follow the footpath sign to the right and walk up an incline towards a plank bridge.

Cross the footbridge and then turn right to follow the field edge path up the hill. Cross another

Chandler Road

20

Local walks footbridge to reach the road and turn left onto the road. Take the first footpath (about 60 metres); it’s easy to miss, but has a wooden fingerpost for Arminghall. Follow this narrow path downhill and round to the left. Be careful of the ditch here.

Cross the footbridge over the ditch and walk uphill again. There will be woods on your right. At the top of the hill, turn left at the T-junction of paths to take the woodland path along Hallback Lane. This will eventually head downhill. At the next wooden fingerpost, marking a meeting of footpaths, turn left towards Caistor Lane.

Horses between Wash Lane and Stoke Road round to the left, walking uphill for the last time and take the first exit on the right through a gap in the fence onto Wash Lane. Beware of cars speeding along here. Continue straight over the road and onto the footpath opposite, and return to the starting point.

Tree with Africa-shaped hole on Hallback Lane Climb up the short bank and take the crossfield footpath. This drops down a steep slope and heads back to the road. On reaching the road, turn right and then take the track on the left immediately after the white house. Turn immediately right to follow a field edge path; the road will be on your right. After passing a concreted area on your left, turn left to walk uphill, with a wooded area on your right. Ignore paths off to the right, and at the T-junction at the bottom of the hill turn right.

On reaching the woodland, turn left and stick to the main grassy path that twists to the right skirting the woodland. Follow the field edge path Walkers should register with the Facebook page (Central Norfolk Walking for Health) to receive important messages. To find out more, visit www.walkingforhealth.org.uk.

FREE Georgia toilet & basin with every bathroom order

Bathing a problem? – we can help • Wet rooms • Walk in showers and baths • Waterproof wall panelling • Slip resistant safety flooring • Grab rails & shower seats • Zero VAT on disabled bathrooms • Discounts for over 60s SSAFA and Ex Service personnel • Disabled Facilities Grants • Charity work and grants Call for friendly advice and free survey and quote

01603 605518

www.ahminstallations.co.uk

21

The Floor Sanding Company

FoR all youR REmoval & SToRaGE REquiREmENTS

Restoration Specialists

We get the job done when and how you want

REmovalS & HouSE ClEaRaNCE SPECialiSTS

lFloor sanding, restoration & refinishing l A full carpentry service is available l Dust free sanding machines l We are fully insured, local tradesmen l Timber treatment for dry rot, worm etc l Staircase strip and refinish l References available on request l All wood floor types worked on l Domestic and commercial

01603 621354 / 07766 466078 www.dustfreesandingmorwich.com dustfreesanding@hotmail.com

The Next Generation of Window Has Arrived

John Ryder Removals and light Haulage is a local family business based in Wymondham, offering reliable removal services throughout the uk along with light haulage and house clearances.

• Removals & stoRage • Domestic Homes oR office moves • fRee estimates & aDvice • 3.5 ton & 7.5 ton veHicles • full Packing seRvice • fully insuReD • 7 Day seRvice

Call 01953 605553 www.johnryder.co.uk

Est 1987

3 White Horse Street, Wymondham, Norfolk NR18 0BJ

Skilled StonemaSon with 25 years experience

Available in any RAL colour

The new Storm 2 timber-alternative range has been designed to emulate the beautiful aesthetics and proportions of traditional timber windows.

There’s no expensive maintenance and no laborious sanding and painting.

This highly energy efficient window comes with a WER A+13 rating as standard. And the excellent security features ensure your home is always safe and secure.

Exclusively from Unit 6 Halesworth Business Park, Norwich Road, Halesworth IP19 8QJ

01379 688488 / 07909 543905

waveney-windows.co.uk 22

Granite & Quartz Worktops

all made to order at our workShop Let us help you transform your home with beautifully designed items made to your exact sizes and requirements.

We also manufacture bespoke hearths, slips and vanity tops units 1&2 oakwood ind. est., harling road, Snetterton nr16 2Ju

01953 887722 / 07826 844847

www.cutstone.co.uk cutstone@sky.com

Food

I

The DIRTY DOZEN and CLEAN 15

f you have never heard this phrase, you may be forgiven for thinking it refers to a couple of chart-topping boy bands, or the latest blockbuster film! But if you are aware of farming practices, what goes into our food, and pesticides specifically, the Dirty Dozen and Clean 15 will be familiar to you.

It’s all about organic produce, and the phrase was coined by the Environmental Working Group (EWG), who release an annual guide to give shoppers more information about pesticides in produce. The guide includes the Dirty Dozen, a list of the 12 fruits and vegetables that have the highest amounts of pesticides, which the EWG recommends buying organic, and the Clean 15, the 15 fruits and veg that contain the fewest amounts of pesticides, and are therefore safe to buy from conventional sources.

If you often choose to buy organic fruit and veg to avoid pesticides you will know that it comes with a higher price tag. But what this handy list tells you is that you really don’t need to buy all you fruit and veg as organic, because some contain only trace amounts that will have no negative impact on your life. So you can save money buying the ‘clean’ produce from general sources, and splash out on organic for the ‘dirty’ ones.

What is the Dirty Dozen?

Strawberries, Spinach, Nectarines, Apples, Grapes, Peaches, Cherries, Pears, Tomatoes, y, Potatoes, Sweet Bell Pep ppers Celery So why y are these crop ps so ‘dirty y’? Strawberries, which top the list as having the highest levels of pesticide residue, can contain 22 different types

of pesticide residues in one sample. One third of all non-organic strawberries contain 10 or more pesticide residues.

Coming in at second place is spinach. The pesticide report found that 97% of conventional spinach samples contain pesticide residues. Many spinach samples also contain high concentrations of permethrin, a neurotoxin and insecticide that can cause transient burning, itching, skin swelling, redness, rash, and numbness or tingling of the skin. Neurotoxins famously affect the nervous system, as they are destructive to nerve tissue.

Other foods that contain neurotoxins include grilled meat, canned tomato sauce, butterflavoured microwave popcorn, tuna, and peanut butter.

What is the Clean 15?

This produce has the lowest levels of pesticide contamination, so no need to buy these organic.

Avocados, Sweetcorn, Pineapples, Cabbages, Onions, Peas, Papayas, Asparagus, Mangoes, Aubergines, Honeydews, Kiwis, Cantaloupes, Cauliflower, Broccoli Avocados and sweetcorn are the cleanest, less than 1% of samples showed any detectable pesticides. More than 70% of Clean 15 fruit and veg samples had no pesticide residues. With the exception of cabbages all other produce on the Clean 15 tested positive for less than four pesticides. Multiple pesticide residues are extremely rare on Clean 15 vegetables, and only 6% of samp ples had two or more pesticides.

There is plenty online about the Dirty Dozen and Clean 15, so have a surf and find out a bit more about it. But for a beginners’ guide go to www.greenmatters.com/p/dirty-dozen-clean-15

23

Do You HATE IRONING? Don’t get De-Pressed

Specialist Cleaning Services:

Carpets Upholstery Hard Floors End of Tenancy 01379 678806 or 07984 648296 info@crystalclean.services www.crystalclean.services

Efficient, friendly, professional service with a quick turn around.

Opening Hours Mon & Wed: 8am to 5pm Ironing • Dry Cleaning Tues, Thurs, Fri: 9am to 3pm Laundry • Alterations Repairs Sat: 9am to 12 noon

Ironed 4 U, 28 Victoria Road, Diss, Norfolk IP22 4HW

Phone: 01379 643291

A & L Roofing

Flat Roofing Specialist CALL R JAMIE O R O STEVE F E A FRE N IO QUOTAT All work guaranteed and fully insured

✔ LEAD WORK ✔ CHIMNEYS REBUILT ✔ RE-POINTING 01379 870193 / 01449 676433 / 07547 594699 / 07545 071147

✔ ✔ ✔

TILED ROOFS SLATE ROOFS FLAT ROOFS

Attleborough; Norwich; Brandon and Lakenheath LOOSE & BAGGED AGGREGATES TO THE PUBLIC AND TRADE OPEN FROM 25KG BAGS TO 30 TONNES Collection and Delivery available

Sands Gravel of all sizes Paving slabs Cement Decorative stone Type 1 Road planings and much more

sales@holbrookgroup.co.uk www.roryjholbrook.co.uk

24

Tipper Hire Plant Hire Aggregate Supply

50 years experience

Supreme

Family Firm Est 1998

Bathrooms and Kitchens

Visit our fantastic large showroom showcasing the latest quality bathroom & kitchen designs.

OPEN TO PUBLIC & TRADE

Open Monday - Friday & Saturday morning

WE OFFER A DESIGN & INSTALLATION SERVICE OR WE CAN JUST SUPPLY

t:01953 600660

www.supremebathroomcentre.co.uk 10 Chestnut Dr, Wymondham Business Pk, Norfolk, NR18 9SB

What’s on this month

VILLAGE NOTICE BOARD

EVENT EAST ANGLIAN POTATO DAY

SATURDAY 8TH FEB 9.30AM - 1PM Stonham Barns, Pettaugh Road, Stonham Aspal IP14 6AT

Seed potatoes sold by the tuber (18p). Over 80 varieties, some Victorian, some very recent, many grown organically. Run by organic gardener groups for gardeners, so quality and value for money important. Lots more than potatoes, look at www.eapd.btck. co.uk. 25th annual potato day will be opened by Bob Flowerdew.

GARDENS SNOWDROP OPEN GARDEN

SUN 16TH, SAT 22ND, SUN 23RD FEB & SUN 1ST MAR 12 - 4PM Old Coach House, The Street, Brockdish IP21 4JY Over two acres of woodland and gardens leading to the banks of the River Waveney. Circular walk on woodchip path. In aid of local charities. Dogs welcome on leads.

Teas and refreshments, stalls, jams, books, tombola, raffle.

Adults £3, children free with an adult.

WORKSHOP ROSE PLANTING & PRUNING WORKSHOP

THURSDAY 13TH FEB 10AM Peter Beales Roses, London Road, Attleborough NR17 1AY An informal day of instruction to help you get the most from your roses. If you are buying new roses this winter, intend to do so in the future, or have mature roses that puzzle you, then this is a course not to be missed! Workshop includes morning coffee, lunch and cream tea in our Rosarium Restaurant. If you require a vegetarian meal or have other

dietary requirements we will be happy to help. To book tickets go to www.classicroses.co.uk Reasons to Visit Us - Workshops.

WORSHIP OUSE VALLEY FILLING STATION

FRIDAY 14TH FEB 7.30PM Garboldisham Village Hall, Church Road, Garboldisham, Diss IP22 2SE Each month we focus on drawing close to God through worship, testimony and hearing from God’s Word. The aim is to experience His tangible presence in our worship times, so that we are refreshed and refuelled by the Holy Spirit to be happy witnesses for Jesus.

This month our guest speaker is Alison Scarborough from Ellel Ministries. You are welcome to email us at ousevalleyfillingstation. org.uk if you would like further details. We do hope you’ll join us.

Refreshments from 7pm.

MUSIC THE SILVER DOLLAR COUNTRY MUSIC CLUB PRESENTS: THE DAVE DRAIN BAND SUNDAY 16TH FEBRUARY 7PM The Park Hotel, Denmark Street, Diss IP22 4LE Members £6, non-members £7.

Doors 7pm, music 7.30pm until 10.30pm.

FILM DOWNTON ABBEY (PG)

TUESDAY 18TH FEB 6.30PM

EVENT HISTORICAL TALK

WEDNESDAY 19TH FEB 7.30PM St. Peters Church Hall, Cringleford NR4 6UE

The City Walls of Medieval Norwich by Vanessa Trevelyan.

One of a series of hourly talks hosted by the Cringleford Historical Society. The full programme is on the website.

Annual membership £7 and £2 for visitors to single events.

EVENT FREE CHURCH RECORDS

MONDAY 24TH FEB 12.30PM Norfolk Record Office, The Archive Centre, Martineau Lane NR1 2DQ Join archivist Tom Townsend for a quick introduction to Norfolk’s free churches and their records, including those of the Independents, Baptists, Quakers and Methodists. Free of charge.

Booking required on www. archives.norfolk.gov.uk/events or 01603 222599.

EVENT BINGO - IN AID OF EAST ANGLIA AIR AMBULANCE Newton Flotman Village Centre, Grove Way, Newton Flotman NR15 1QE The Crawley family and their intrepid staff must prepare the estate for a visit from the King and Queen of England. For tickets, contact William Ball on william. ball@outlook.com

FRIDAY 28TH FEB AND FRIDAY 27TH MARCH 8PM Syleham and Wingfield Village Hall IP21 4LT Join us for a bingo session on the last Friday of each month to raise funds for locally nominated charities and good causes. Bar and raffle.

25

Village Notice Board MUSIC THE SILVER DOLLAR COUNTRY MUSIC CLUB PRESENTS: SHAWN CUDDY BAND SUNDAY 1ST MARCH 7PM The Park Hotel, Denmark Street, Diss IP22 4LE Members £6, non-members £7.

MUSIC SOUTH NORFOLK YOUTH SYMPHONIC BAND+

SATURDAY 7TH MARCH 7.30PM Diss Corn Hall

EVENT LUNCHTIME TALK NORFOLK POLISH HERITAGE GROUP

WEDNESDAY 4TH MARCH 1PM Norfolk Record Office, The Archive Centre, Martineau Lane, Norwich NR1 2DQ Join Adrian O’Dell for a brief history of immigration from Poland to Norfolk. During his talk, Adrian will explain the background and stories of some of the Polish military immigrants during the Second World War, before moving on to more recent incomers. Free of charge. No booking required.

EVENT ARCHIVE AFTERNOON WOMEN OF THE FIRST WORLD WAR

FRIDAY 6TH MARCH 2PM Norfolk Record Office, The Archive Centre, Martineau Lane NR1 2DQ

To tie in with this year’s theme for International Women’s Day; Each for Equal, join us to look at the role of women during the First World War. There will be a chance to see the exhibition First World War Women of Norfolk: Legacies, and Daryl Long will talk about the women included in the exhibition’s Roll of Honour. Free of charge. No booking required.

Since 2012 the Mason Trust has supported three tours by the South Norfolk Youth Symphonic Band+ to Malaysia and Borneo, enabling 89 band members to participate in these events. With this concert, SNYSB+ will be raising funds for The Mason Trust to thank them for their continued support. To book go to Diss Corn Hall website.

FILM OFFICIAL SECRETS (15)

TUESDAY 17TH MARCH 6.30PM Newton Flotman Village Centre, Grove Way, Newton Flotman NR15 1QE

The true story of a British whistleblower who leaked a secret memo o to the press regarding the 2003 invasion of Iraq. Advance Tickets: £4.50 adults, £3.50 concessions, £15 family ticket (2 adults 2 children) or £5.00 per person on the night. For tickets, contact William Ball on william.ball@ outlook.com

EVENT WELLBEING WALKS

FRI 20TH MAR 10.30AM - 12.30PM RSPB Strumpshaw Fen, Low Road, Norwich NR13 4HS Join RSPB guides for a group walk

to explore the iconic landscape of Strumpshaw Fen and Buckenham Marshes, and experience the tranquillity and beauty. A chance to spot some wildlife while sharing in the benefits of being outdoors walking with like-minded people.

Get to know your local nature reserve and find some calm in your day. Adults only event. To book contact Pamela Hallesy on 01603 715719, or email pamela. hallesy@rspb.org.uk

GARDENS DAFFODIL OPEN GARDENS

SUN 29TH MARCH 10AM - 4PM The Old Coach House, The Street, Brockdish, Diss IP21 4JY A daffodil walk down to the banks of the River Waveney, over two acres of woodland and gardens.

Beautiful displays of daffodils and spring flowers. Bird song, ducks and swans. Circular woodchip path around the garden. In aid of East Anglia Air Ambulance, St Elizabeth hospice, Norfolk & Norwich Breast Cancer Unit, prostate cancer and other local charities. Teas and refreshments, cakes, stalls, jams, crafts, bric-abrac, plants, books. Dogs welcome on leads. Adults £3, children free with an adult.

WANT TO ADVERTISE? List your local event for Free on our Village Notice Board.

Log onto www.village-people. info to send us details

For more information on all events including ticket purchase please see www.village-people.info/whats-on

26

East Anglian Brass Band Association presents

Leyland Band

Sunday 31 May 2020 St Andrew’s Hall, Norwich, 6.30pm

KITCHEN SENSE of Harleston

62 London Road, Harleston, Norfolk IP20 9BZ

Free tickets to aged 16 & under brass musicians.

Other tickets from £15.00 Discounts to 31 March

Box office: 07934169721 Email:administration@eabba.org.uk Charity number 1062760

A RESOLUTION FOR 2020

Learn the Piano and reduce the risk of Dementia An increasing body of evidence is pointing to the idea that the intense focus of playing a musical instrument can help slow down the development of dementia.

A GOOD RESOLUTION TO CONSIDER! Piano tuition: 01379 668485 / 07376 603879

Fitted Kitchen Specialists

Tel: (01379) 852592 Fax: (01379) 854411

web site: www.kitchen-sense.co.uk email: staff@kitchen-sense.co.uk

Anglia Chimney Sweeps • Power sweeping for a thorough clean • Smoke draft test with every sweep • Fully trained and insured • Insurance-recognised certificates

Tel 07711 458575 Or 01359 221893

www.angliachimneysweeps.co.uk

“The time leading up to the funeral was made bearable knowing that you were at the end of the telephone.”

THE LADY GARDENER Lady on your own?

Would you prefer an experienced Lady Gardener? l l l

Border Specialist Garden Maintenance No job too small l Planting plans R.H.S. trained Garden Designer and Horticulturist

Please ring Marian on 01379 898646 or 01449 723412

www.the-ladygardener.co.uk

– from a family we have cared for at Rosedale We are a family business and promise to provide exceptional care and a truly personal 24 hour service, when you need it most.

High Street, Attleborough ....................... 01953 Hungate, Beccles ................................... 01502 Upper Olland Street, Bungay .................. 01986 Victoria Road, Diss................................. 01379 Market Place, Halesworth ...................... 01986 Middleton Street, Wymondham .............. 01953

452538 714445 892790 640810 875588 601103 www.rosedalefuneralhome.co.uk

27

Recycling

REFUSE, REDUCE, REUSE, RECYCLE, ROT Caroline Topping takes the next steps in helping us to reduce the waste we produce

L

ast year I wrote about a range of recycling ideas, from the Ecobrick to Terracycle, say no to Fast Fashion, Give and Take and Bring and Mend events. This year, we need to take a step further and recapture the days before packaging, when people went out shopping with their string/ reuseable bags, bought their fruit and vegetables at the greengrocers, went to the butchers, delicatessen, bakers, etc; and their individual items were wrapped in paper.

The preferred way to shop in an eco-friendly way is to buy locally produced items with minimal packaging. Fruit and vegetables can be placed loose into your bag for life, and smaller items like mushrooms can be put into smaller drawstring reuseable bags. For things like raw meat, cooked meats, cheese and bread, you can put them in reuseable containers, rather than taking home the single-use, packaged items. Also, look out for the zero-waste shops that are beginning to reappear, where you can take your containers and buy loose weighed produce like flour, sugar and grains.

A great deal of our recycling ends up being sold and shipped overseas for sorting. Some of the companies selling this packaging are unable to provide evidence that it is indeed being recycled when it arrives at its destination country ry, y and some items have been found dumped overseas with evidence that it has travelled from the UK with the intention that it should be recycled. If we are in any doubt that our recycling is actually being recycled, then we need to take action and say ‘NO’ to unnecessary ry y packaging.

28

Another way to reduce single-use packaging is to carry a reuseable drinking cup if you commute and purchase hot drinks along the way, or carry a refillable water bottle while you’re out. Take a look at the mobile phone app https://refill.org.uk Other ideas Schools – collect a party pack to lend out to parents with reuseable plastic beakers, plates, cutlery, drinks jugs, etc, so they don’t need to purchase single-use partyware.

Communities – get groups together to run Terracycle events, Fashion Exchanges, Give and Take, Bring and Mend.

Cycle-recycle – find a local cycle-recycle shop, take your old bicycle and buy a preloved one to replace your old one. This keeps old cycle parts in circulation and gives bikes a new lease of life.

Gifts – don’t buy unnecessary, unwanted gifts.

Instead, give the gift of your time and take that person out for a meal, to the theatre, a walk in the park, and spend time together.

Every little thing we do can make a cumulative positive difference.

Sand l Topsoil Gravel l Type 1 l Muckaway l Bark l Slate l Cement l l

Aggregate suppliers in Norfolk & Suffolk Great value for money

Same Day Delivery Available

✔ Free Delivery ✔ Bagged Or Loose Drop ✔ Small Or Large Order’s ✔ Restricted Access Specialist ✔ Primary Or Recycled Aggregates

01502 218383

www.gravelrun.co.uk Insurance Claims Management & Building Repair

andrew p r love architecture . design . planning cherry tree farm wymondham road bunwell norfolk nr16 1nb planning applications & building regulations submissions alteration works, extensions & conversions architectural design consultation & drawings specialist in listed buildings & conservation work site supervision & management excellent local knowledge and contacts domestic & commercial projects

South Norfolk

Design Award winner 2011 & 2013 for innovative and ecologically aware architecture please contact us on

t: 01953 789911 m: 07771 855225

e: info@andrewprloveadp.co.uk www.andrewprloveadp.co.uk

BUILDING SOLUTIONS

www.conceptpropertyclaims.co.uk

IF YOU ARE ABOUT TO MAKE AN INSURANCE CLAIM OR HAVE JUST MADE AN INSURANCE CLAIM THEN WE CAN N HELP!

NO • 24/7 COMPLETE ASH C PROFESSIONAL SERVICCE Y UTLLICA O SS PO Y EXCE • FREE INSURANCE EXCLUDING with your Insurer ly ect dir al de CLAIMS MANAGEMENTT* We EYS * FREE SURVES T O • WE HANDLE EVERY U Q & ASPECT OF YOUR CLAIM M • LOCALLY VETTED & ACCCREDITED TRADESMEN EPAIR & RESTORATION • GENERAL BUILDING REPAIR • PLANNED MAINTENANCE & REFURBISHMENT

0800 157 1020

COVERING NORWICH & ALL SURROUNDING AREAS

*We do not charge you a fee for our service as we are paid directly by your Insurer for the repairs we carry out

29

Art

BRIGHT…FREE…POWERFUL Village People sub editor Lucy Ohsten looks at the life and work of her mother, the artist Kay Ohsten

I

f you’re interested in the local art scene you will probably be familiar with the name Kay Ohsten.

She was, and remains, an artist ahead of her time, a talented painter and printmaker who created work of such endearing quality that, 17 years after her death, she still shines out as one of the most impressive artists the region has ever seen.

As her daughter I may be a little biased, of course, but I know that anyone who has seen her work appreciates its skill, beauty and sheer versatility.

Her pictures range from expansive watercolours of the local landscape and her beloved Norwich; abstract screen prints, including her much soughtafter ‘bodies’ and ‘flowers’; powerful watercolours that charted the building of Castle Mall (now Castle Quarter) back in the early 90s, where she was artist in residence — pictures packed with action, colour and vibrancy — plus many others that use a vast array of different mediums.

I have many wonderful memories of my mother, and one of them is her compulsion to work, every day, whether she was in her studio at the farm in Pulham St Mary, where I grew up, or just out and about. Her sketch pad was never far away, ready

30

to capture whatever scene caught her eye. She just loved to paint, draw, make something, and this drive made her one of the most prolific artists of her generation.

Born in 1935, Kay was a true ‘Norwich’ artist, a graduate of Norwich Art School (where she later taught graphic design), and a member of the Norwich 20 Group, a prestigious collection of the counties very best artists. She trained as a draughtswoman, and so her accuracy for perspective and architectural correctness was beyond reproach.

You can see this in her work that features buildings, and people too; perfect proportions and perspective, and that’s the mark of a true artist. But with that skill she was able to be flexible and she never favoured the tight ‘photographic’

Photographs Courtesy of Ken Adlard

Art

depiction of anything in her work. She was very much an impressionist, using the lightest touch and superb skill and technique to produce work that was bright, free and powerful. This epitomised her work.

Sadly, my mother passed away in 2003, and she left behind a body of work that goes back decades — a very accurate representation of her

passion for working, always tapping into that creative spark. I want her work to be seen, loved, appreciated and admired by as many people as possible — the way I and many others already do.

Take a look at Kay’s work on Facebook or Instagram (@kayohsten), and if you are interested in owning a piece please get in touch.

31

W NOBLE PAVING IMPROVE THE VALUE OF YOUR PROPERTY

PAVING & LANDSCAPING SPECIALIST SOFT & HARD LANDSCAPING

n Driveways Turfing n Brickwork Fencing & Gates n Raised beds in n Block Paving, railway sleepers Tarmac & Shingle n Patios To find out more for a FREE quotation no obligations and all works carried out come with a written guarantee n n

01379 651541 or 07786 052205

info@wnoblepaving.co.uk www.wnoblepaving.uk 32

Dancing

Scottish COUNTRY DANCING

I

Have fun, makes friends, get active!

f you tried Scottish Country Dancing as a child, you may remember what fun it can be.

Danced in ‘sets’, it’s a very sociable activity and a wonderful form of exercise for people of all ages.

The lively music is great, too!

But if you have never tried this type of dancing before, why not give it a go? Competent dancers can join classes and dances anywhere in the UK, and many places throughout the world, making new friends as well as having great fun.

We welcome anybody who wants to come along, of any age and level of ability. Come and try it out and you could become hooked! Bring a partner, or just come by yourself — you’ll have plenty of people to dance with. Please wear soft, pliable shoes, such as ballet pumps or plimsolls, and loose, comfortable clothing.

Weekly dance classes in South Norfolk and North Suffolk: Wed: 7.30 to 9.30pm at Hungate Church Hall, Beccles (September to May). Thurs: 7.30 to 9.45pm at Haddiscoe Village Hall (all year).

For further details contact Hilary on 07501 837761, or email hilary.maidstone@gmail.com

Call us today - 0800 292 7192

Cambridgeshire - 01223 915940 Norfolk/Suffolk - 01603 909790

Web: resin-pave.co.uk Email: info@resin-pave.co.uk

33

Would you like a Maid to Clean your home?

Caféye Could you use some help with your cleaning, ironing or both from as little as £10.50 per hour? You even get to meet your cleaner first!

0800 878 6388 0330 010 6388 Are you looking for part time work? If so call 0843 289 6858

Cafe & Restaurant

Fresh Coffee - Breakfast - Lunch - Brunch - Cocktail Bar & Late Lounge Takeaway available

14 Broad St, Eye, IP23 7AF

01379 873000

www.maid2clean.co.uk/suffolk

PizzaEvening

The Cherry Tree, 74 London Rd, Harleston IP20 9BZ

FRIDAY FEBRUARY 21st

from 6pm – Free glass of prosecco

Booking advisable, walk ins welcome To book call us on 01379 852211, message us on Facebook or email bees@apiaryharleston.com

marsh larder

SHOTFORD HALL

CAFÉ OPEN

Open from 6pm Tues - Sat

01379 852 288

www.momijijapanese.co.uk Find us on facebook

Sushi Events held Monthly BRING THIS VOUCHER IN TO RECEIVE A COMPLIMENTARY MINI JAPANESE PLUM WINE

valid for up to 4 people, Tuesday-Friday

Valid until 31/3/20

Hungry Cat Cafe & Delicatessen

Licensed cafe serving wholesome food & drinks. Open days and some evenings.

THURSDAYS TO SUNDAYS 9.00AM – 4.00PM

HARLESTON, IP20 9QT (OFF B1116 – CYCLE ROUTE 30) Breakfasts ● Light Lunches ● Scones ● Cake FOR FURTHER DETAILS OF OPENING TIMES VISIT www.facebook.com/marshlarder marshlarder.co.uk 01379 854714

34

office@marshlarder.co.uk 07825 422119

Please call for details and bookings 01379308917 25 The Thoroughfare, Harleston IP20 9AS

Village Life

Village Life

Gospel from THE SAINTS

By Julia Collins, who lives in Saint Nicholas

T

he wispy tail lights of Christmas and New Year are long since faded as we head slowly but surely towards the clear, beckoning light of spring. Not there yet, but snowdrops and crocus assure us that we are well on our way.

Every day, encouraging signs delight us. Buds on the sparrow-busy trees and bushes, patches of new growth in sheltered pockets of ground, and even more than a whiff of warmth towards lunchtime…on a good day!

Although we all suffer from ‘grass is greener’ syndrome, I’m really trying to appreciate this time of year rather than yearning for warmer, longer days. At present, we don’t have to fret about heat, lack of water, scorching rays and damaging hot winds. Cool dampness cushions the countryside, definitely chilly for much of the time, but reassuringly familiar; the essential condition for nature to burst forth again in the coming months.

Many of us can feel smug about having raked up soggy leaves at the end of last autumn. The grass is still tender and festooned with worm casts, but pleasingly tidy, ready to firm up into its usual reliable emerald carpet once things take off. The pleasure of spotting bulbs pushing up through the leaf mould never diminishes — daffodils before too long, hyacinths, tulips...

The days are definitely lengthening and there is not quite the urgency to take the dogs out straight after lunch, before the light disappears. There is almost an air of ‘off with the old, on with the new’ as gently strengthening rays lighten our mood as well as our path!

The annual round of celebrations steers reliably into view. Valentine’s Day has been heralded weeks in advance, drawing the eye to all things crimson and pink; like it or not. I’m sure the carbon footprint of producing plants, indoor or outdoor, cannot be tiny but, if we cherish and nurture such gifts, perhaps we could honour that input and enjoy the sentiment behind such a present all year long and beyond, or at least for longer than a box of chocolates?

As we stride across the fields, early morning frost means a welcome reprieve from washing and drying muddy paws. What a boon a set of four little wellies would be or, better still, a non-stick treatment for my four-legged friend.

Brighter days draw intrepid cyclists to brave our chilly lanes. Thickly clad against the cold, enthusiastic and cheery, they whizz past, keeping fit while taking in the scenery. Weekends bring still greater numbers of visitors, all contributing a welcome boost to the brilliant array of local shops, cafes and restaurants; treasures that are only too easy for us ‘locals’ to take for granted. Our busy hotels and booked-up holiday cottages emphasise just how lucky we are to live among such beautiful countryside, while still having many delights at our fingertips.

Each morning in ‘The Saints’ we wake to peace and bird song but, if you long for ‘the buzz’, Halesworth, Bungay and Harleston are only a few miles away!

35

Nature

Spring in the CLAYLANDS

By Helen Baczkowska, Conservation Officer at Norfolk Wildlife Trust

I

n February, spring can still seem a long way away and roadside ditches full of water remind me that the old name for this month was ‘Filldyke’. Despite this, and the meagre warmth of the sun, a few signs of spring are already emerging beside the quiet lanes of my winter walks.

In the tall hedges that are a feature of South Norfolk and North Suffolk, hazel bushes are bright with dusty yellow-green catkins. These are the male flowers and the female ones can be found on closer inspectiion;; smaller and hug gging the twigs, they y are crowned with tiny y, vivid-red tassels.

The blackthorn is budding and ready to blossom with pure white flowers that precede the small, oval leaves. Blackthorn berries, the purple-black sloes of autumn, have long since been stripped by y hungry birds (or the makers of sloe gin), but the blossom will soon be a welcome source of early nectar for bees.

Even in winter, the hedges offer shelter to small birds, and I spot the white rump of a bullfinch ahead of me. I look for another, as I usually see this bird in pairs, although they are shy and easily missed. They are solid, compact little birds, with a powerful beak for cracking open seeds and a distinctive black head. The male has a bright pink chest and stomach, while the female is pale brown and both have black wings. This time I have lost them in the hedge and see only the rise and fall flight of a flock of pied wagtails instead. yond the hedg ges, the clay y In the arable fields bey soil lies heavy and wet, clinging in clumps to my boots when I head out across footpaths. In the next field over, a clod of earth shape-shifts itself into a hare, half as big again as a rabbit, with powerful back legs and black-tipped ears flat to its back.

Hare, credit Andrew Parkinson - 2020VISION

Mobile Servicing on your door step

Covering Norfolk Suffolk North Essex SERVICING AND REPAIRS FOR CARAVANS, MOTORHOMES, TRAILERS AND HORSE BOXES

Service & Warranty Engineer for

07949 855380

www.caravanandtrailerservicesnorfolk.co.uk e-mail caravanandtrailerservices@hotmail.co.uk

36

Adept Home Improvements Home Insulation • Small Plumbing Jobs Wallpapering • Painting • Kitchen Fitting Tiling • Decking & Fencing • General repairs

Colin Beardsell 07960 139209

colinbxx@hotmail.co.uk

Nature

Bullfinch, credit WildStock

Catkins hanging on a hazel tree, credit Elizabeth Dack

Chiffchaff on Blackthorn, credit David Tipling

Blackthorn credit Guy Edwardes - 2020VISION

Hazel Catkins, credit Neville Hardy

Pied wagtail, credit Dave Kilbey

Hares are the subject of many folk stories and songs, with a strange range of old-fashioned names, such as ‘the short deer’, ‘the fern-sitter’ and ‘stag of the cabbages’. At one time, people thought they laid eggs on the edges of woods and this may be the origin of the Easter bunny.

Certainly hares are a good herald of spring and when my solitary one sits up, ears alert, I see a second nearby. They run a giant circle across the field, are joined by a third, part company, run full tilt at each other, then leap and twist in the air.

They will ‘box’ like this for the next month or so and this was once thought to be the actions of males, fighting for females or part of a mating

ritual. Boxing is now thought to be females not ready to mate and fighting off the unwanted attentions of males.

I turn for home as the hares charge out of sight in the dusk. The days are lengthening now and the hares are right — spring is coming.

Start your wild year at www.norfolkwildlifetrust.org.uk with places to discover and events taking place near you.

Diss F Firewood Traditional and Modern Plastering services All aspects of Brick, Stone and Flintwork Concrete, Garden walls and Patios Listed Buildings and Walls Extensions and New Builds

07712 112149

alastairabercrombie@gmail.com www.aabercrombiebuilders.com

Barnn Stored Seasonedd Hardwood

Oak, Ash, Sycamore, Birch ch Beech Etc...

07802 186347 r.aves@icloud.com

37

THE CURTAINS & BLINDS LADY * Beautiful handmade curtains & blinds in customers own fabric * Free measuring, advice & fitting * 25 years professional experience * Extremely competitive pricing

* NO VAT * Contact Peggie-Ann at 01379 308057 or email peggie-ann.walker@hotmail.com

TREE FELLAS Professional and accredited

Tree Surgeons

With 20 years experience we can cater for all your arboricultural needs www.treefellasuk.com

Please feel free to contact us on

01379 871490 or 07542 039490 ÂŁ5m public liability insurance

PC or Mac Running Slow?

Got A Virus? Need help?

For a friendly and professional IT service for PC & Apple Mac call Joe Richards at

Tel: 01953 718421 & 07928 326008 Email: help@bailiwickit.com Website: www.bailiwickit.com

!

ED OVow on 2AA M VE s n P22 HA linic i am I tre) WEr Diss cessinghrden Cenew,

Ou d, Br ms Ga our n inic!

Roa Bloo see e cl w Lo next to and d larg ( e n Com ern a d o m

Become part of the family For further information call today!

DISS 01379 642 865

ATTLEBOROUGH 01953 454 945

STANTON 01359 251 730

uplandswayvets.co.uk 38

Canine Behaviour

Parlez Vous POOCH?!

Blogger and qualified ‘Dog Listener’ Julia Collins teachess us how to communicate better with our dogs through gesture eatiing

G

esture eating is a very effective way we can harness the power of food to communicate clearly with our dogs. This method relieves stress by demonstrating our unequivocal leadership.

If you have ever watched a documentary about canines, you may well have seen footage of prey being hunted down and the canines subsequently eating. The pack members will always feed in order, according to their rank within the hierarchy. Indeed, in difficult times when food is scarce, the pack defers and only the alpha pair will eat.

The survival of the alphas is ‘hardwired’ within the canine pack. The alphas ensure the pack’s survival, initiating behaviour with regard to defence, hunting and care of the young.

So, back to the gesture eating. When it comes to your dog’s feeding time, place something you can eat — such as a cracker, piece of biscuit, or grape — on a plate alongside the dog’s bowl on the worktop as you are preparing his dinner. Let your dog watch you prepare his meal as usual and then eat your ‘cracker’ in full view of your dog, without speaking or making eye contact.

When you have finished (take your time), calmly and quietly place your dog’s bowl on the floor and leave them to eat in peace. Allow your dog a few minutes to eat before you return to the room and remove their empty bowl.

It’s easy to understand how this replicates pack feeding following a kill, and emphasises your leadership status. In addition, in a concerted effort to establish good communication with a dog, it helps a lot if all family members participate in gesture eating. Two weeks is usually sufficient, but use your judgement to ease off over time, according to how your dog’s behaviour is improving.

In the wild, walking away from food indicates you have had your fill, and that those below you in the hierarchy may now eat. Gesture eating can therefore be a very useful technique for ‘fussy

eaters’, dogs that ‘snack’ or eat a few mouthfuls before wandering off.

Having carried out gesture eating as above and left the dog for several minutes to eat in peace, we can return if the food is not eaten and remove it until the next feeding time. Do not worry, your dog will not starve! He will simply realise that you decide when food is provided.

Making a hole in a plastic feeding bowl and attaching a length of string to it will allow you to draw food away from a dog who may growl and, or stand guard over uneaten food.

The dog is learning a) he can relax, you are the leader and provider of food, and b) food needs to be eaten when available and, remember, no one brings food to a subordinate. I return to the gesture eating method whenever my dog gets a bit casual with me; usually because I take him for granted and things slip.

Try it. Powerful, calming signals for your furry friend, by means of one, straightforward practice!

To find out more, or contact Julia, go to www.walksoflife.co.uk

39

Else Heating & Plumbing Oil and d Gas Installlatiion * Breakdowns * Servicing

* 24 hr call out * Powerflush

Bathroom & Kitchen Fitting Fully Insured

01379 644639 07912 608267

Contact Eugene Else

01379 688183 07787 854923

elseheatingandplumbing@gmail.com

Oil Fired Pressure Jet Boiler Servicing & Plumbing

Andy Bacos 07775 751303 andy.bacos@ntlworld.com Andy’s Oil Boiler Services

WIDDRINGTON

HEATING LTD GAS, OIL SOLAR, LPG, ELECTRICAL PLUMBING & HEATING

CHECK OUR WEBSITE FOR OFFERS

E: robert@widdringtonheating.co.uk

www.widdringtonheating.co.uk

40

ALL DOMESTIC PLUMBING WORK UNDERTAKEN

Full Bathroom Installation & Unvented Cylinders Oil Appliance Commissioning, Servicing, Repair Oil Tank Installation, Central Heating Installation

OFTEC Registered Technician No. 28970

T: 01603 663558 M: 07541 214667

CALL FOR A FREE QUOTE

WATERSON Plumbing & Heating

No. 65005

Home: 01359 760528 Mobile: 07828 639138 jeremy@watersonplumbing.com www.watersonplumbing.com

Recipe

COURGETTIE SPAGHETTI with Kale Pesto From Razz, at the Hungry Cat Cafe, in Harleston This dish is packed with nutrients and can be eaten raw.

If you prefer it warm you can heat it up once you have mixed all the ingredients together.

INGREDIENTS 2 medium sized courgettes 200g kale 230ml olive oil or ½ oil and ½ water 4 tablespoons nutritional yeast 1 teaspoon salt

METHOD 01. Spiralize the courgettes and set them aside. Put the nuts into a food processor and pulse until you have the right consistency; not totally smooth, but with a bit of texture. Remove and set aside.

02. Cut up the kale before putting it into the food processor and throw away the stems. Put the remaining ingredients into the food processor and blend until all the ingredients are finely chopped. Then add the nuts into the processor again and blitz until the mixture is well blended.

03. Taste the pesto to see if it needs more salt or oil. You can also add water to the mixture if you don’t want to put too much oil into it, it works fine. If your mixture is too dry or has too much liquid, you can add more kale or more water or oil.

04. Now mix the kale pesto with the courgette spaghetti and garnish with the avocado and sun-dried tomatoes. Enjoy!

3 cloves of garlic Juice of 1 lemon 125g mixed peanuts and almonds, or any nuts you like

GARNISH ½ avocado, sliced 2 sun-dried tomatoes

41

MANY OF OUR PL ANTS HOME-G ARE RO WN

Shrubs - Perennials - Roses Fruit Trees - Hedging - Shrubs Bulbs - Seed Potatoes Bird Feed - Bedding Plants Hanging Barkets

Foundry Gift Centre Lovely gifts for all

CAFE OPEN “Best lunch in ages”

Norfolk Lavender - Greetings Cards Preserves - Kitchenware - Candles Baskets - Gardening Gifts

Foundry Plant Centre ‘On the A140’ Tasburgh NR15 1NS

www.foundryplantcentre.co.uk OPEN 7 DAYS 8:30am - 4pm

Glass Rooms and Verandas

01508 470357 &

55 YEARS

Blinds & Doors for Home and Industry

-

The weinor Terrazza patio roof convinces with its elegant construction, shapely design and high resilience. The numerous versions make it suitable for the most diverse types of building and requirements.

• Can be transformed by vertical glass elements to the Weinor Glasoase® transparent weather protection • Rigid aluminium construction • Elegant design

• Modular system - Can be retrofitted afterwards with: - Patio lighting - Patio heating - Sun protection - BiConnect remote control

• Three roof typ tyypes p - multiple versions • Invisibly integrated drainage for Terrazza Originale and Terraza Plus • Rigid roof covering

www.cooksblinds.co.uk Tel: 01603 410304 Email: sales@cooksblinds.co.uk

Showroom: Burnet Road, Sweet Briar Ind. Est, Norwich, Norfolk, NR3 2BS

42

Gardens

The Garden Enclosure Jottings

B

rrr… it’s a bit chilly, who in their right mind would want to be working outside at this time of year? Of course, many people don’t have much choice if it goes with their job, but for pleasure, you must think I’m joking! Come on now, be brave, it’s the perfect time for a spot of gardening.

A new year means a new season and although it’s cold there’s lots you can do such as cutting back shrubs, roses and overgrown climbers, digging over or creating new borders, lifting and dividing herbaceous perennials, applying manure or mulches, and sweeping paths and patios. All of these jobs will help keep you nice and warm if you get stuck in, and will also give you a blast of fresh air (except possibly the manure) whilst stretching your muscles. It’s a great alternative to a gym membership, and if carried out regularly will go towards making an improved you and a better-looking garden with every session.

Keeping fit doesn’t just mean taking exercise, it’s also about how you feel in yourself, and what you eat can play a big part in your overall wellbeing, so why not allow your garden to work for you by dedicating some space to growing some of your own food? Not only will you burn off some calories, but you can also eat the freshest and tastiest produce, plus you’ll save time and money on shopping trips (a packet of mixed lettuce seed will produce rows of plants for about the price of one bag of assorted salad leaves).

It’s up to you what to grow, but we have everything you need to get you going. Call in now for your choice of salad and vegetable seeds, onion and shallot sets, plus top quality certified seed potatoes (either in 2kg nets or packs of just 10 tubers). Choose an ‘early’ variety of seed potato such as Rocket or Swift which are less prone to disease problems and will crop when prices are still high in the shops, and if space allows add a ‘main crop’ such as Stemster (a multipurpose red skinned choice with good disease and drought resistance) which is lifted later and is suitable for storing.

In a few weeks time a great range of young vegetable plants will also arrive for you to plant out when conditions allow. Don’t forget to leave a bit of space for some soft fruit bushes (gooseberries, raspberries, blackcurrants etc) and fruit trees, and once these have established they’ll provide heavy crops for lots of tasty puddings. If you can spare a sunny spot, how about a grape vine or two, a bottle of homemade wine will impress your friends and help keep away the cold?

So grab your coat and pop outside into your garden, or make a list of what you need and pay us a visit.

Cheers Ken,

The Garden Enclosure, Banham — natural therapy for springtime!

INDEPENDENT GARDEN CENTRE & GIFT SHOP 01953 888043 www.gardenenclosure.co.uk Inspiring plant selections, plant sourcing & garden advice, gardening & floristry sundries, timber products, stones & gravels, wild bird & pet supplies, gifts & greetings cards, preserves… & more!

Find us at Banham Zoo, NR16 2HE - outside Zoo ticket kiosks Open Thursday to Monday 10am to 4pm (9:30am to 5pm Mar to Oct)

Dis c us t over Spr his ing !

Gardens

g of life Signs JOBS FOR CH FEBRUARY & MAR Prepare veg seed

n

VE EG OUT!

beds

Plant summer flowering bulbs

n

wering Prune winter flo shrubs early potatoes n Start chitting

n

and Check your tools ry garden machine

n

n

Keep feeding the

birds

Wh hen you sow vegetable seeds, it’ss important to be organised ah head of time so you don’t end up p with any shortages or a glut la ater down the line. Knowing w what to sow and when to sow itt means you will be able to p produce a continual supply. It’s i important to thin seedlings so that the plants don’t compete with each other for nutrients.

Aim to sow far away from established plants or trees so there is a full supply of

goodness for your new growers.

February sowing will need protection, so take this time to get a plan in place and give your soil some TLC. If you can’t wait to get going, start with sowing hardy veggies like broad beans in pots under cover or in a cold frame, and planting out later in March. Garlic varieties like ‘Solent Wight’ and shallots should only be planted in light soils, as heavy soils need longer to warm up.

Gardens & Grounds Lawn mowing l Scarifying l Ponds Shingle gardens l Regular maintenance Hedge trimming l Window/gutter cleaning Turfing l Fencing, decking & pergolas Garden Clearance l Pressure washing Commercial grounds l Concrete bases Large private grounds l Property maintenance

07786 851895 / 01953 714853 eclipsegardens@btinternet.com eclipse-homeandgardens.co.uk

44

Water Gardening Specialist Design • Installation • Maintenance Pond Cleaning • Planting Advice

Contact Robert Foulger on:

01379 652720 07900 370304 lakeandpondaquatics@gmail.com www.lakeandpond-aquatics.co.uk

Gardens

WILDLIFE WONDERS If you’re looking for a planting project, what could be more rewarding than planting for wildlife? Having a combination of tall bushes and trees will provide shelter and nesting sites for birds and mammals.

You can also introduce low flowering plants and shrubs to provide good ground cover. Patches of uncut grass and wildflowers will encourage small mammals, bees, butterflies and other insects into the garden.

Choosing plants which flower, seed and bear

fruit at different times of the year will give yearround benefit for the animals in your garden.

Berries and seeds are great during autumn and winter when birds need to build hibernation stores, but plants which provide nesting materials and cover are useful during February, so incorporate foliage like ivy and hawthorn. In summer, honeysuckle will invite insects into the garden; a great food source for our feathered friends.

Eye Gardens For all your gardening needs Garden maintenance

Expert service at good rates

Garden Landscaping

For all structural land works

Garden Design

Garden advice, makeovers and design to give you a garden that is a pleasure not a burden

Contact: Amanda 07732 783572

www.eyegardenmaintenance.co.uk

SOIL MATTERS Most people like to work the soil before planting spring crops, and it’s important to time this step just right. Work the earth when it’s too wet and you risk compacting the soil, which makes it more difficult for plants to grow. Once the soil is dry enough, you’re ready to break it up. This is also the time to add whatever you need to in order to create a nutrient-rich environment for plants. You could use a synthetic fertiliser, but your soil and the surrounding ecosystem will be much healthier – and stay that way – if you stick with organic fertilisers. And they are cheaper too!

Compost is a great way to improve soil health in every way, from providing crops with the nutrition they need, to improving water drainage. Some sources suggest you apply one inch of compost to the top of the soil, while others advise putting it deeper into the soil. You can make your own compost from kitchen and yard scraps, or source it from local farmers.

PD Garden Services Ditch and pond cleaning/clearing Garden clearance/maintenance Small tree work Hedge trimming/removal Fencing Gutter cleaning Gravel driveways Log splitter available • Fully insured

Call Paul 01379 652903 07827015215 pdgardenservices@aol.com

45

A. WATERFIELD & SONS LTD DISS (01379) 740255

T W SERVICES - ANGLIA Gas Installation and Service

• N Gas and LPG Specialists • Servicing of Boilers, Cookers & Fires • Repairs & Replacements • Landlord Certificates • Power Flushing

07540 809806 tonywickins89@gmail.com www.twservies-anglia.co.uk

• Brickweaving • Patios • Driveways • Carparks • Concreting • Tarmac

This is 1 of 61,000 copies Want your business noticed?

Prices start from £29 + vat per month*

Bungay Road, Scole, Diss IP21 4DT

01284 788 623

www.awaterfield-sons.co.uk

*For an eighth page advert in one magazine for 12 months

NSH Developments Ltd

We offer a simple low cost solution to your storage needs. Our new steel containers with thick plywood floors and high quality door seals ensure that your goods come out in the same condition they went in.

We are conveniently situated on the A143 in Wortham just minutes from Diss.

COMPETITIVELY PRICED NEW CLEAN DRY UNITS WITH EASY ACCESS

MINIMUM CONTRACT OF ONLY ONE WEEK BUSINESS AND DOMESTIC USE ENTRY 7 DAYS A WEEK 24 HOUR CCTV

For more information call or e-mail us

01379 783236 selfstorage@rookery-online.com The Rookery, Wortham, Nr Diss, Norfolk IP22 1RB

Or visit www.rookery-online.com/self-storage

46

Recipe

LUMBERJACK SLICES It took a long time for us to perfect the recipe for this Aussie classic.

Its blend of sweet dried fruits with a crunchy coconut topping is perfect for this time of year; a real treat after a spring walk.

Serves 12 409kcal / 57g carbs per serving INGREDIENTS 100g stoned dates, very finely chopped 200ml boiling water 125g butter, softened 200g golden caster sugar 1 egg 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 100g mixed vine fruits or raisins 350g apple (about 3 Granny Smith’s), finely chopped 1 level teaspoon bicarbonate of soda 225g plain flour TOPPING 60g butter 100g soft light brown sugar 125g unsweetened shredded coconut 100ml milk METHOD 1. Grease and line a 23cm square brownie tin.

Preheat the oven to 170°C. Put the chopped dates and boiling water in a bowl and leave to soften. In a large bowl, beat together the butter and golden caster sugar until light and fluffy.

Whisk in the egg and vanilla extract.

2. Add the dates with their water, the vine fruits and the finely chopped apple and stir through.

Add the bicarbonate of soda and the flour,

Tip:

stirring to combine. Pour the mixture into the tin, level off and bake in the centre of the oven for 45 minutes until golden brown and risen.

If yo swee u only ha te ve coco ned shre nut, dded redu suga ce th r in t e he t to 70 opping g.

3. Meanwhile, make the topping. Put all the ingredients into a pan and slowly heat, stirring gently, until the butter has melted and the sugar dissolved. Once the cake’s had its 45 minutes, take it out of the oven and spread the warm topping over it. Reduce the temperature to 160°C and return to the oven for a further 20 - 25 minutes, until the topping is golden brown.

If it looks too dark, cover loosely with foil or baking parchment.

4. Leave the cake in the tin for about 15 minutes, then turn out onto a rack to cool, topping side up. Cut into 12 squares or slices. Lumberjack slices will keep in a tin for about five days — although the topping will slowly lose its crunch — if they last that long!

The Pennoyer Centre’s staff and volunteer BakeForce make delicious cakes for the café, which won the EDP Norfolk Food & Drink “Best Baking” Award. The café, in Pulham St Mary, is open MonSat from 9.30am to 3.30pm.

47

PE

YEARS

PE

RIENCE EX

12

RIENCE EX PE

RIENCE EX PE

RIENCE EX

Gard ‘n’ Cox Garden Care

Garden maintenance l Planting designs Supply of trees, shrubs, perennials & bulbs Lawn care & mowing l No VAT Tel: 01359 221220 Mob: 07773 138306 Email: gardncox@hotmail.com

BLUE AURA ELECTRICAL Domestic Electrician

Contact Richard on 07801 484873

email: blueauraelectrical@btinternet.com

MADE TO MEASURE BLINDS

✔ Rollers ✔ Verticals ✔ Venetian ✔ Pleated ✔ Roman Made in our workshop near Diss Free Estimates and Fitting

01379 640568 info@swiftblindsdiss.co.uk

R-B JOINERY

Bespoke wardrobes and storage solutions, Replacement kitchen doors and worktops to full bespoke kitchens, Bespoke staircases, Manufacture of traditional casement windows, doors and box sash windows and much more

WWW.R-B-JOINERY.CO.UK Tel: 01379 688259 Mob: 07976 828973 FREE ESTIMATES

48

DJA Handyman Services Fencing www.djaha andyman.co.uk Painting 007786 991333 Decks and Patios dave@djaahandyman.co.uk Tiling Dave Allison General Garden maintenance Flat pack assembly Haandyman, Property Garden Features and Garden Maintenance Kennels, Cat houses, Hutches, etc Bathrooms Kitchens Carpentry Electrics

And more

LOCAL HISTORIAN

MEMORIES OF ROYDON Local historian, Dennis Cross from Diss, shares with us his fascinating collection of old postcards, focusing on a different village in every issue. This time, we take a walk down memory lane in Roydon.

Roydon Hall, circa 1916. In this period, Roydon Hall was owned by John Tudor Frere, who was Lord of the Manor and chief lando owner in the area.

In this postcard, Ernest Fround from Diss can be seen in his charabanc taking the Frere family on a day trip to the coast. The hall became a private hooll in th hat same year. sch

Dated circa 1920, this postcard shows the White Hart pub on the right, adjoining a small garage, next to a school, then the church. Today, everything is gone apart from the church and pub. The landlord at that time was Dennis Jarvis.

Here is the 1949 Roydon School team, who competed in the Rectory Meadow Sports Day, Day, in Diss. How many faces do you recognise?

Back row (l-r) Michael Martin, Michael Spurway, John Marsden, Sybill Orford, Jean Rackham, Kathleen Orford. Front row (lr) Brian Bartrum, Raymond Masey, Cecil Bartrum, Nathan Leeder, Clive Stevens, Doreen Pretty, Jean Orford, Cynthia Leeder.

49

History This 1910 view of the rear of St Remigius Church shows the flint structure in the perpendicular style, comprising chancel, nave, south aisle, north porch and round embattled tower. The rector at this time was the Rev Hugh Frere. The south aisle was rebuilt in 1864.

Roydon, circa 1948, looking towards Roydon church and the former National School, which dated from 1872. A new school was built and opened in 1898, but was demolished in the late 1970s to create a car d park for the White Hart pub and residential houses, which now overlook this busy road from Thetford to Bressingham.

Postdated 1911. Roydon is a p parish and village on the Norfolk-Suffolk border a mile il westt off Diss. The old rectory stood on the site of what is now Waterloo Avenue and served as the rectory to St Remigius, which is further along the main road. A new rectory was built near the man road in the 1960s.

The Norfolk Postcard Club meets regularly in Trowse in Norwich and new members are very welcome. The next meetings are on Wednesday 12 Feb and Wednesday 11 March.

Dennis is also the author of several local history books that can be purchased by contacting him direct.

If readers have any local postcards of Diss or the surrounding villages, please get in touch with him after 7pm on 01379 651897. Š

50

SEWING MACHINE Servicing & Repairs

KVM Sewing Machines

Bespoke Handcrafted Furniture 01379 676016 07973 197247

Furniture Designer Cabinet Maker

Pulham Market Norfolk Diss, Norfo

For All Furniture Requirements

Collection & Return Service

Individually Designed

Sales of new machines from only £99

Phone Keith Mitchell 01379 783521

Dave Ramstead Electrician 01379 688445/ 07952 287975

DOMESTIC COMMERCIAL INDUSTRIAL No VAT, No Obligation, No Call Out Charge!

ELECTRICITY BOARD TRAINED AND NICEIC APPROVED

djramstead@gmail.com www.ramsteadelectricians.co.uk

www.bespokehandcraftedfurniture.co.uk p info@bespokehandcraftedfurniture.co.uk

Repair and Maintenance

ENGINEER

Heating|Hot Water Plumbing|Cooking Repair Specialist

WINTER OFFER:

1 hour repair £50 + parts

Call Kevin on

07703 699 628 www.nigglyfault.com

502762

NEW PHONE NUMBER

GASWORKS SOUTH EAST Boiler servicing Repairs n Installs n Powerflushes

n

local : secure : 24/7 access

n

LOCAL, SECURE STORAGE WITH 24/7 ACCESS

All other plumbing work undertaken.

07902 084722 722

Call to book 01603 261737

enquiries@localselfstoragediss.co.uk www.localselfstoragediss.co.uk

Oil Tanks Supplied and installed Pipe Work Gauges Fuel Pumps Spares 24 hour call out

All types oof pitched and flat rooofs

Established over 30 years

01508 570629

Re-roofs & repairs

07979 846139

info@pdoiltanks.co.uk Unit 2, Woodview Farm, Church Lane, Wicklewood, Norfolk NR18 9QH

Domestic

www.pdoiltanks.co.uk

Agricultural

Commercial

Felt & rubber flat roofs

Please call Paul Curtis 07540 085736 or 01508 532122 www.pacroofing.co.uk

L d & brick b i work Lead Chimney rebuilds Fascia & Guttering Shed Roof Repairs

51

Philippa Green

WEB

NO VAT DESIGN

Mobile-Ready & User Friend Friendly Websites

For Philippa’s

Water Solutions from A.D. Veale

5 TOP TIPS

Est. 1981

on what makes a good website call or email today

I don’t have a scale problem.

Do you?

(no obligation)

“Promote your business or hobby today by having your web site, built your way, at a price which you can afford”

01508 532670

100s

OF HAPPY LOCAL CUSTOMERS

Fully qualified and insured.

www.philippagreenwebdesign.co.uk

Water Softeners Boiling Water Taps

Drinking Water Systems Repairs and Servicing

Free Salt Delivery

www.clarity-water.co.uk 01379 871020 info@clarity-water.co.uk THE GABLES, EYE ROAD, BROME, IP23 8AL

Want to be more like Lisa?

suddenly

Paul realised that promoting his business to 1000s and 1000s of local homes for £29 a month cost less than his mobile.

01284 788623 52

t I could fulfil Years course so tha d I joined the Early ildren. I had ba ch h wit rk wo my ambition to d my confidence an l oo sch at e memories of my tim rning vocational g. The Adult Lea was really lackin have worked ey Th ! tic tas fan course tutors are continue to d an s ue iss me my with me to overco dy & paid stu r the fur o move int support me as I dreamt of ays alw ve a job I ha employment doing possible. but never thought course) rly Years Level 2 Lisa (Learner on Ea

Study with us & get that qualification & job you have always dreamt of!

Visit www.norfolk.gov.uk/adultlearning or call 0344 800 8020

Competition

Can you find Bella the Beagle?

WIN A £100 JARROLD VOUCHER! To be in with chance of winning a £100 Jarrold voucher, simply read this magazine from cover to cover and find Bella the Beagle. She looks exactly like the picture of her, but much smaller!

How to enter the competition?

Visit www.village-people.info and follow the links to the competition page.

Closing date is 31 March 2020 and the usual Village People rules apply.

Where Bella was hiding in our previous issue – p4 Galloway

HOME CLEA EAN ANERS N REQUIRED Are Ar r you proud of the way you keep your home, have common sense and a good eye for detail?

Are you available for local part time work?

You may not have considered being a home cleaner but you have great skills that we recognise Why not consider joining our agency and being paid

£9 per hour

Work available

for a job that you love?

NOW

in your village vii and the surrounding area

If you are reliable and genuinely love to clean pleas ase s call us for a friendly chat on

www.home-maid.info

01603 527436 53

PA M P IN A RO TI IN P NG TE E R & NA TY CL NC EA E NI , NG

l l Roof, Chimney & Wall Repairs l l l l l l

•

l l l l

•

07979 260 320 07393 341 934 01953 457 896

l

•

PC or Laptop Problem?

For a Fast, Friendly and Affordable Local Service Call Paul

01379 308250

Home s t Callouble Availa

Call in for a fabulous selection of plants perfect for wildlife gardens, woodland and bog gardens Our Tearoom serves lunches, homemade scones, cakes and ice creams all day

Repairs - Advice - Tuition

Find s st o the A47 10 miles East of orwich at R13 6

Centiflex Systems - Harleston Norfolk

01603 270449 www.fairhaven arden.co. k

www.centiflex.co.uk

repairs@centiflex.co.uk

This is 1 of 61,000 copies Want your business noticed?

Prices start from £29 + vat per month*

01284 788 623

*For an eighth page advert in one magazine for 12 months 54

Stories from our region

Stories from our region

The skill of the VILLAGE STORYTELLER Our regular Oral Traditions storyteller, Neil Lanham, explains the technique of the natural raconteur

D

ick Ruggles, the gamekeeper, has always been my best storyteller, so I would like to explain his natural, inherited technique.

He would use every natural device possible from gesture and eye contact, and drama by way of as much dialogue as he could get in.

He also used metaphoric phrases that formed pictorial images to ease the mind gently forward, leading up to a crescendo in finality that passed a principle of understanding. It was history, it was entertainment, but most important for mankind it passed on principles of understanding – wisdom.

Something lost in the modern world of artificial technological literacy.

Dick is now going to tell us the story of how the vicar has been caught cutting his grass in the nude, but he does not start at the vicarage for the first part, he frames his story from afar by saying: “Now when I kept the Chestnuts [the pub in the village] my old uncle would come in and I would give him a bit of bread to toast over the fire.” This information is not necessary, but it forms a good mind picture.

popped her hat and coat on [he partially demonstrates to add actual imagery] and hurried down to the village shop to tell ’em all.

“Well, the next Thursday, which is the Dick Ruggles day that the vicar usually cuts his grass, there she is in her front bedroom and there’s eight old gals a-waiting for the vicar to start and she’s a-serving of ’em tea and biscuits. And the vicar, he didn’t let ’em down. No, no, no, he strutted between the trees with his mower. “ ‘Well,’ says Mrs Brett as she was a-sippen her tea and dunking a garibaldi, ‘I’ve got to go and see him sometime to ask him if he’ll read my daughter’s banns of marriage. I think I’ll go now.’

“When who should come in but Jimmy Gant. ‘I hear the vicar is cutting his grass in the nude,’ Jimmy said.

‘Go you on,’ said uncle. ‘Ho, that he aint, he wun’t do that!’ ‘He is I tell yer.’ ‘No he aint.’ ‘Yes he is.’ ‘Well is he really.’ “

“ ‘Yes, yes now’s a good time to go, dear. You go now,’ said the others. So she tripped across the road and banged on the vicarage side gate and to her surprise, after a few minutes, the gate opened and there stood the vicar in the nude. [Pause]. He just stood there a-holding the grass collection box in front of him.” Great imagery.

This to-ing and fro-ing with voices getting stronger prepares the listener for the big event. With it, the first part of the story draws to an end, for he now takes us to the setting of the incident itself.

And thus the story continued, with Mrs Brett pretending not to take any notice of the vicar’s nudity, but secretly endeavouring to trick him into lowering his guard! All for the sake of a story.

“Well howsumiver, old Mrs Read, who live opposite the vicarage, was cleaning her bedroom windows [at this point Dick sprays from an imaginary spray can and makes as if to clean the window…psssssst, psssssst!!…mental imagery again], when she thinks she sees something pink moving across the other side of the road through the trees.

Next time…the mischievous Dick’s escapade while shooting in the company of royalty gets him in a national paper!

“ ‘What’s that, that can’t be. No that ain’t. That ain’t the vicar a-cutting his grass in the nude is it?’

[Important dialogue with herself]. Well she soon

Neil Lanham runs www.oraltraditions.co.uk, a website devoted to spoken word history, traditional folk song, story, wisdom, history and cultural identity. You can contact Neil on 01379 890568, or email traditionsofsuffolk@gmail.com

55

Art

TURN THE PAGE Expand the mind!

W

Art writer Kristy Campbell finds out how we can tap into our love of storytelling on World Book Day (5 March)

hen I think back to World Book Day in my youth, I recall dressing in thick black leggings and wellington boots, and picking up a stick with a hanging hamper before leaving for school. This merging of childhood favourites Puss in Boots and Dick Whittington was the perfect practical outcome for a narrow wardrobe and a long day of study.

The emergence of the films Harry Potter (2001) and Lord of the Rings (2001) saw some of the school’s most innovative costumes, with students appearing in cloaks, modified school uniforms, elf-like ear pieces, and props…so many props! While wearing your love for the written word on your sleeve for the day is one way to portray an engagement with learning through storytelling, World Book Day hopes to extend each student’s interest in reading beyond the thrill of this March celebration, and annually gifts each child in full-time education a book voucher.

Since 1995, World Book Day has been commemorating authors, editors, illustrators and contributors to books throughout the UK. Additionally, the charity provides resources throughout the year to help educators, families and young people participate in creative projects, academic and cultural events, and exciting news of new publications and the extensions of the book, including pantomimes and day trips.

Through March 2020, there is a whole host of activities attributed to World Book Day throughout Norfolk and Suffolk at our local independent book providers. I have had the pleasure of picking the marvellous minds at Norfolk Children’s Book Centre (NCBC), so let’s see what they’ve got in store.

The NCBC is run by librarian and book enthusiast Marilyn Brocklehurst, whose knowledge of literary sources and attainment of Fellow of the English Association is both reassuring and inspiring. At the The Norfolk Children’s Book Centre

56

Art NCBC the doors are open to everyone, eager to facilitate your next book adventure! I interviewed Marilyn to find out how they engage with young people: What role does the NCBC play in schools?

“We provide book sales and story reading sessions for schools, bookshops for national and local conferences and literacy festivals, and we take authors into local schools for events. We also offer a book approval service to schools and we provide school library rejuvenations.”

“We use the whole four week period that the book vouchers are valid to visit schools with lovely book displays, and to distribute the free World Book Day books. It’s a highlight of our year, since many children may not even own one book until they are given the free one.

Each year we buy several thousand of these books from publishers to distribute free to children.”

Do you have any book recommendations for particular ages?

“With over 60,000 books in the shop it’s too difficult to pick out one or two particular ones. Anyone who visits us and asks for recommendations will be given a pile to browse through, based on their individual needs.”

There we have it! Be sure to stay up to date with the independent businesses and learning resources in your area for yourself and family or friends.

The NCBC contact details are below, so please do explore their facilities and see how you can get involved. www.ncbc.co.uk/about-marilyn www.worldbookday.com/about/

Marilyn Brocklehurst

How do you encourage young people to engage with reading outside school?

“We encourage reading for pleasure, regardless of age or ability…read anything: picture books, information books, graphic novels, comics, newspaper articles, recipes.”

What events do you hold at NCBC? “The bookshop is open six days a week to the public and we offer advise and book recommendations and welcome everyone with free tea or coffee.

We often have visits from local schools who bring a group of children to hear a story reading and then browse the books for school and personal purchases. We also hold book launches at the shop.

Writer - Kristy Campbell www.axisweb.org/p/kristycamp kristycamp17@gmail.com

57

0* st fi r ge 1 r u a yo ill n gV o 0 in £ 1 u ot e q v Sa der, or

Home heating oil? You’re in safe hands

Fuel Monitoring

Call

Monthly Payments

Boiler Servicing

01379 652764 or visit watsonfuels.co.uk

One voucher per account. Expires 31/03/20. Minimum delivery 500 litres.

Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. Terms apply.

Full installations including wall & floor tiling & shower boards. Also interested in smaller jobs - tap replacements, outside taps, ball valves etc.

✔ Full installations including

wall & floor tiling & shower boards

✔ Also interested in smaller jobs

- tap replacements, outside taps, ball valves etc.

PAULCLARKE T: 01953 888439 M: 07766 543466 E: pcbaths@gmail.com 58

Competition

Competition

ROCK WITH THE very best!

T

Village People has 4 pairs of tickets to give away for the coolest of rock gigs coming up at Norwich Waterfront in Norwich.

hin Lizzy founding member and drummer Brian Downey, and Deep purple keyboard player Don Airey have joined forces to play six UK venues in February, including the Norwich Waterfront on Saturday 22 February. They will be supported by Rebecca Downes, the award-winning blues-rock artist from Birmingham.

Originally from Dublin, Brian Downey formed the legendary Thin Lizzy with Eric Bell, and remained a member until the band split in 1983. Having worked on Phil Lynott’s solo albums and the subsequent Grand Slam project, Brian went back to Dublin after Phil’s untimely death in 1986.

Brian remained in constant demand as both a touring and session drummer, and regularly played live shows and recorded with renowned guitarist Gary Moore. Brian is often cited as being an influence by many of the world’s top drummers and feels invigorated to be playing the songs he co-wrote in Thin Lizzy with his new band Alive and Dangerous.

Rainbow, Whitesnake, Judas Priest, Gary Moore, Brian May, Jethro Tull, Black Sabbath and, obviously, Deep Purple, the band of which Don Airey has been a full-time member for over 15 years.

But Don has never been a session player. Bands and artists work with him for his unique musical vision, for the twist he gives to songs. It is with the same passion, the same energy, the same talent that Don Airey approaches his very own songwriting.

Don’t miss your chance to see these rock legends in action. Good luck.

How to enter the competition To enter, simply visit www.village-people.info and follow the links to the competition page.

Closing date is Tuesday 18 February 2020 and the usual Village People rules apply.

It’s hard to find a name in the rock hall of fame that has not used Don Airey’s keyboard skills at some point.

Amongst them are Ozzy Osbourne,

Harling Electrical Domestic Commercial Industrial

01953 860876

office@harlingelectrical.co.uk www.harlingelectrical.co.uk

Ceramic Tiler

Kitchens, bathrooms etc Ceramics, stone, porcelain & mosaic DOM ESTI C COM AND MER CIAL

Please call for a quote

01359 240423 or 07871 190639 DC Mutton & Son est 1965

59

FEB/MAR 2020

BOX OFFICE: (01603) 63 00 00 Fri 7 - Sat 8 Feb RICHARD ALSTON DANCE The last ever performance from this celebrated dance company

Wed 4 Mar - Sat 4 Apr LES MISÉRABLES Cameron Mackintosh’s iconic musical masterpiece

Tue 18 - Sat 22 Feb MATTHEW BOURNE’S THE RED SHOES The multi awardwinning adaptation of the legendary film returns Mon 24 - Sat 29 Feb BLITHE SPIRIT A drama of sparkling wit, spirits and hijinks, starring Jennifer Saunders Les Misérables

Sun 9 Feb ICELAND SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA The renowned orchestra perform Bizet, Ravel, Thorvalsdottir and Prokofiev

Tue 11 - Sat 15 Feb CURTAINS Hilarious musical whodunnit starring Jason Manford

Tickets from £10 Book online: www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk THEATRE STREET, NORWICH NR2 1RL

60

BLITHE SPIRIT

O

Theatre

Theatre Royal Norwich – 24-29 February

ne of the UK’s most popular comic actresses, Jennifer Saunders, is heading to Norwich to play one of Noël Coward’s best-loved characters; the eccentric clairvoyant Madame Arcati in Blithe Spirit, which comes to the Theatre Royal on 24-29 February as part of a national tour.

Here, we interview Jennifer Saunders about this challenging role.

What appealed to you about the role?

It’s one of those classic comedy roles for a woman of a certain age, which are few and far between, so it was a no-brainer. I’ve never worked with Richard Eyre before and he has such a fantastic reputation and he’s such a brilliant director, so I thought it’d be great to do it.

Many formidable actors have played Madame Arcati. How are you making the character your own?

I think I must have seen Margaret Rutherford in the film, but a long time ago, so I don’t have any other influences. It just sort of happens as you go through the text and think: “Ooh, let’s do that,” and everyone has their own different way of doing comedy. Every actor is different.

What challenges does the role present?

It goes into different energies. There’s a time where they think she’s a fool and you think she’s a fool, then you realise she isn’t at all. It’s quite hard to allow that to come across. She goes through a lot of different phases in the play and it’s not pure comedy either.

You’ve played your share of eccentric characters.

Are they more fun to play?

They’re terrifically good fun to play and it’s nice that you don’t have to play any vanity to them at all. Making people laugh is honestly the best fun in the world and I like

people who make me laugh, so it’s like doing a job you appreciate.

Edina Monsoon is probably the most famous of your eccentric characters, but what do the public recognise you from?

It depends where you are really. I could meet anyone under 30 who wouldn’t know who I was from Adam.

There’s so many different things. I’m always amazed when people come up and go: “Ooh, I loved Girls On Top,” and I’m thinking: “Even I’ve forgotten about that!”

When it comes to theatre, do you have any pre-show rituals?

I’ve noticed that I have to stop looking at my iPad an hour before I go on stage. It’s very tempting to just read some emails or play a game or something in that hour before, but you absolutely can’t, otherwise everything goes from your brain. So for me it’s a matter of getting in there and starting to go through the lines, relaxing, making your mind concentrate.

You’ve worked in comedy for more than three decades. How do you feel the landscape has changed?

It’s just different now, I think. It’s harder to make jokes. People seem so sensitive about everything.

You say the wrong word and people are down on you, whereas before you could generally make fun and everyone realised you were making a joke.

You’ve had such a varied career. What have been your highlights across stage and screen?

The second series of Ab Fab, because we’d gotten into our stride and were thinking: “We’ve gotten away with it!” and we had the best fun ever. Then there’s most of French & Saunders and the second series in particular. And I loved doing Jam & Jerusalem.

Do you have any dream theatre roles?

Well, I hear they’re making a musical of The Devil Wears Prada, so I’m thinking the Meryl Streep role would be a good one. I heard about it and thought: “Gosh, I’d lose a few stone for that!”

Blithe Spirit, Monday 24-Saturday 29 February at 7.30pm, and Wednesday and Saturday matinees at 2.30pm. Tickets £10-£39.50. Discounts available for Friends, Over-60s and Under-18s. Captioned performance on Wednesday 26 February at 2.30pm. Audio described and signed performance on Saturday 29 February at 2.30pm.

61

FOOT CARE

Amanda a PILATES S

Shape up, move well and feel good

Diss & Harleston

Podiatry & Chiropody Clinic Foot problems Diagnosed & Treated

Pilates classes an nd Private Reformer or mat sessions s in Diss and local are ea

www.amandapilates.com

07557 025513

amandapilatesnorfolk@gmail.com

We pride ourselves on the quality of service we offer

Diss 01379 640 370 Harleston 01379 650 020 www.chiropodyandpodiatry.co.uk

Pressed to go

Established family-run ironing & dry cleaning business Local Delivery

Tel Karen: 01379 652767 or 07984512275 www.pressedtogo.co.uk

62

Crafts

CRAFTING IS Cool!

Y

Needle Felt artist Tracey Baldwin looks at what it takes to get a craft business up and running

es, you heard it here first! Having spent decades in the doldrums, crafting is back – and how! Handmade is hip. Each month thousands of new recruits are setting out on a crafting adventure. Up and down the country, back bedrooms, dining tables and garden sheds are being commandeered by an army of crafters.

Two years ago I was one of these fresh-faced new recruits. I discovered my chosen craft, Needle Felt, by accident at a local craft fair. I was drawn to a stall covered in small woolly creatures; not knitted, not made from felt. Fascinating! The not so helpful lady on the stall told me that to make such delights I would need to stab wool with a barbed needle thousands of times. That was it…end of information.

So, to cut a really long story short I turned to Google to discover the mysteries of this amazing craft.

Google said to buy a kit, so I did. Naturally, I failed miserably to recreate the woolly wonder pictured on the front of the box. But despite my obvious ineptitude I persevered and went back to Google for more help. This time I bought basic equipment and decided to go free style.

At this point I would love to tell you that I had a eureka moment and my next creation was a resounding success, but that’s not the way it was.

The truth is that it took hundreds and hundreds of hours, not a little blood (the needles used are ferocious!), some tears (mostly of frustration), and a healthy dose of self-doubt to get me where I am.

I now have a small business called Fluff-ology and I create British wildlife from British wool. I sell in studios and from my Facebook page, the occasional craft fair, and have exhibited my work at The Norfolk Show. Some journey in two years!

Here are a few things I have learned along the way, which may help you if you’re thinking about crafting as a business: 1. There are no short cuts. You have to put in the miles to master your craft.

2. Having put in the miles you will be riddled with self-doubt. “I am not worthy” will become your mantra.

3. You will go to craft fairs and stand for 8 hours and not sell a thing! It will happen.

4. If you do sell something you will be ridiculously grateful…even though you have sold it for a fraction of the cost of making it.

5. It will take over your life and your home, there really is no such thing as a designated craft space; just ask my husband!

6. Only a fellow crafter will truly understand all of the above. And finally, you will never be happier.

Tracey’s work can be bought at Studio-Line design in Wells, The Studio, West Harling and from her Facebook page which is Fluff-ology (@fluffology).

She also runs workshops in Norfolk for beginners.

Go to Facebook for more details.

63

RUTH WALTERS MCFHP, MAFHP

New clinic opening January 2020 Medical & Cosmetic Foot Health Practitioner trained in diabetic foot care.

Turkey neck?

Sagging jowls?

Just looking tired?

Buy a course of 6 Radio Frequency skin firming facials and get 6 sessions of Celluma LED anti ageing therapy added FREE. (Worth £180) Boost your 60 minute facial to 90 minutes of ‘Me Time’ and see the difference!

New Year Treatment Offer

Call today 07595177910

Call: 07787 718791 www.geraldinewalters.co.uk facebook: GeraldineWaltersAdvancedSkincare Instagram: skinprof_norfolk T&C apply. See website for details

Time for you?

Time for a new career?

8

With part-time weekend training The Homeopathic College of East Anglia provides a unique local opportunity for you to train to become a professional homeopath

Liikkkee ouurr Maagggaaazzziiinnnee? e?

Work within Complementary Medicine as a professional practitioner using natural Homeopathic Medicine to improve your patient’s health and well-being

take a fresh look at

Complementary Health Care

The Homeopathic College of East Anglia is now accepting applications for October entry A four-year part-time Licentiate course (10 weekends per year) leading to registration as a Professional Homeopath (LHCEA)

Time for your new future?

To request a prospectus, please contact:

The Homeopathic college of east anglia

34 Exchange Street, Norwich, Norfolk, NR2 1AX

Please call our advertisers (they make it possible) 64

Tel: 01603 665173 www.homeopathic-college.com enquiries@homeopathic-college.com

Health

It’s a family affair for 2020

A

s we welcome a new decade, we also say hello to a new set of treatments and a new face at the clinic – although she is very familiar to me – Ruth Walters, my sister.

we both provide services that the NHS is now finding it difficult to fund.

Ruth is a registered FHP (Foot Health Practitioner) who has been working near Dereham for the past few years. But she has been attracted by the bright lights of Diss and has now settled in the town.

I’m delighted and excited that we will be working together in the Cobbs Yard clinic.

In the skincare arena, I’ve also experienced rapid growth in the number of young people seeking advice for their skin. In response, I’ve created a TeenClean Express Facial, which Geraldine, (left) with her sister Ruth still uses all the pHformula products and is a clinical facial, but pared down to the essentials so that acne-prone kids can still benefit from expert advice and homecare. I see so much damage from poor use of over-the-counter solutions.

Welcoming Ruth, and expanding our treatment menu, is a great way to celebrate my own five years of having a clinic in Diss. Ruth comes from a stellar background of public service, having worked in the administrative side of the NHS and most recently as a civilian for the county constabulary.

Let’s just say she is very calm in a crisis.

Ruth qualified at the SMAE Institute in Maidenhead, which provides foot health training, and set up her own practice in Breckland specialising in diabetic foot care, together with all forms of nail care; from trimming to thinning.

Together, we have the tools to treat warts and verrucae, using either podiatry recommended products or short wave diathermy, which literally gets to the root of the problem!

Much of Ruth’s work is preventative, making sure clients not only get the right treatment but good home care advice too. An FHP can spot an in-growing toenail and treat it quickly, often preventing surgery, or refer you to a podiatrist who has surgical facilities. As my own field of expertise is electrolysis and skincare, we both believe our work makes us a real part of the community, and

VAN AND A MAN Move Anything, AnytiMe, Anywhere NATIONWIDE COVERAGE

Single iteM or Full houSeholld reMovAlS SAMe dAy Service / 1 or 2 MAn teAM Seven dAyS / eveningS Student, oFFice / PiAno MoveS S Free inStAnt QuoteS All cleArAnceS undertAken

Tel: 01953 488919 or 01362 687222 Mobile: 07751 171 606

www.vanandaman.com Email: gary@vanandaman.com

A range of open evenings for easy-to-digest topics is in the pipeline too, so if you have a subject you’d like me to cover, just send a suggestion in an email.

We’re here to offer advice and expertise and have consultation appointments especially for this.

Many thanks to everyone for all your support over the past five years. We look forward to seeing old and new clients at the clinic in 2020.

Geraldine and Ruth Walters Geraldine Walters @skinprof_norfolk www.facebook.com/geraldinewaltersadvancedskincare info@geraldinewalters.co.uk

PRIVATE HEATED INDOOR POOL

Exclusive private use of 12.5m heated indoor pool Reserve your weekly 1-hour slot for exercise or as a family activity

Great for all ages

Tel: 01379 741482 65

Falcon Meadow

FALCON MEADOW – the end of the beginning?

Laura Myatt, from Falcon Meadow Community Trust, looks at what the future holds in store for this popular patch of nature.

W

ith your support, the Falcon Meadow Community Trust is on the cusp of repaying the loans that secured the meadow for all to enjoy. This year, we are looking forward to what comes next for our fantastic local green space.

Back in 2015, a group of townsfolk realised that a treasured piece of community land was about to be put up for sale. Falcon Meadow, a beautiful water meadow that lies between Bungay and Ditchingham – a spot that had provided generations of people with walks, picnics, fishing and swimming – was to be sold: and risked falling into private ownership.

But this didn’t happen…because enough people were motivated to attend a public meeting on a cold February night, and to lend or give money to raise the £50,000 needed to buy the meadow, keep it in public hands, and preserve what they loved.

The Falcon Meadow Community Trust was formed, and also registered as a charity, to formalise the management of the meadow and ensure the people who generously loaned money would be repaid.

As the glory of the purchase began to fade, the Trustees contemplated the task before them with trepidation. Fundraising is challenging in itself. But fundraising to repay money that – technically – has already been raised, is no easy task.

However, once again, the generosity of local people was a force to be reckoned with. If you bought a cake, attended a quiz, drank coffee, came to a nature day, slept out on Midsummer eve, donated goods for a car boot sale or, of course, bought a ticket for the legendary Duck Race, then thank you; you have helped us to secure the purchase of the meadow. The pop pulation of Bung gay y is approximately 5,000, and we estimate that around

70% of residents have contributed to the purchase and upkeep of the meadow in some way. If that’s not community cohesion, then what is?

At the time of going to press, we have just £3,000 of outstanding loans to repay. It’s a dream scenario, but if everyone in Bungay gave just 60p, we’d be there. The price of a packet of crisps to secure a piece of nature for generations of people to enjoy. If you haven’t donated yet…maybe it’s worth considering?

But, once our debts are repaid, it will not be the end. With the meadow securely purchased, we can turn our attention to our long-term goal; conservation. Water meadows, like Falcon Meadow, have declined by 97% in the last 40 years and we have a duty to provide the highest possible care for those that remain.

We want the meadow to be a haven where wildlife can thrive. Thanks to the efforts of our Conservation Working Parties and careful land management, we are already seeing greater diversity of flowers, birds and animals that live there. With our debts cleared, the Trust can focus on educating children through more nature-themed events, encouraging more community groups to support our conservation work and inviting wildlife experts to come and off ffe er us their advice and observations.

We hope 2020 will be the year when we move to this next stage. If you would like to donate to Falcon Meadow please visit www.falconmeadow.org.uk and click on our Paypal ‘donate’ button.

66

Mustard Pot Productions is a local company producing beautiful framed and unframed prints.

The images were created from our photos and after some fun editing resulted in these bright colourful prints. They are mostly iconic pictures of places we love and return to again and again.

We are also able to offer a personalised service using your own photographs of pets or favourite places. Perfect for special occasions and presents.

Please look at the collections on our website and for further details on personalised prints.

T: +44 01379 873454 E: sales@mustardpotproductions.co.uk

www.mustardpotproductions.co.uk

Coltishall Clinic

BANISH MUMMY TUMMY

BRESSINGHAM BEAUTY SALON

www.bressinghambeautysalon.co.uk

Body contouring Non surgical and surgical treatments Fat and cellulite reduction

LASER LIPO SCULPTURE Call us on 01603 736487 or www.coltishallclinic.co.uk

Beauty Nail Extensions Brows & Tinting Facials Waxing Spa Massage & Body Treatments Open by Appointment Only Mon - Fri 9AM – 4.30pm

Contact us now 01379 687542 on to book your perfect treatment!

Would love to hear from you. bressinghambeauty@outlook.co.uk 67

DeDicateD to the provision of quality care anD support

Helping you enjoy living independently at home

Providing a PROFESSIONAL Caring Service

Susan Whymark Funeral Service

Independent & Family Run Providing Services Throughout Norfolk & Suffolk

Funerals From £1,295* Fixed Price & Inclusive Of All Costs

Pre-Arranged Funeral Plans From £1,795* Fully Guaranteed To Cover The Costs

Traditional Funeral Services Tailored To Your Needs Also Available *see website for full details

www.firstchoicehomecare.co.uk

Join our team

Harleston Branch: 01379 640100 Halesworth Branch: 01986 800227 Snetterton Branch: 01953 667950

All Hallows

care home with nursing

68

Ley House, 11a London Road, Harleston, IP20 9BH - Tel:01379 851253 Chestnut House, 12 Progress Way, Eye, IP23 7HU - Tel:01379 871168

www.susanwhymark.co.uk

Email: susan@susanwhymark.co.uk

We are delighted to announce that NorseCare are providing nursing care and support at All Hallows care home on St John’s Road in Bungay.

Rooms are now available for people funding their own care.

For more information or to arrange a visit, please contact our team at the home:

T. 01986 892643 Visit our website:

www.norsecare.co.uk

Real lives

A GLADIATOR FOR THE GOSPEL Norfolk journalist, Sandie Shirley, spotlights the inspiring stories of men and women from the region and beyond that have seen them reach for victory. For more stories visit @RefreshingWatersChristianMedia

W

arren Furman went from poverty to riches overnight when he bulked up his body with dangerous steroid injections to become a Gladiator for the popular TV series in the nineties. Four years ago, he became a Christian through an alpha course and shared his story at Christ Community Church in Attleborough.

“I came out of the rat race and began to live a life of love instead of fear,” says Warren. “I started to relax and knew I was born for a purpose and to be a blessing. I had subscribed to a celebrity culture; it was empty, and monochrome compared with the technicolour life I have now.” Warren now travels the world telling young and old about the saving grace that placed him on a new adventure.

His former life of fame, fortune and celebrity status took his earnings to a massive £2,000 an hour. “I was the perfect plastic person, a commercial product that was spiritually bankrupt — my life was a house of cards. I had a fast car, house and a number of celebrity girlfriends, but I started to live with more fear, afraid of losing what I had.”

As a teenager, Warren wanted to bulk up to become a high earner like his movie star hero, Arnold Schwarzenegger. “I worked hard, lifting weights, but I learnt that I had to use anabolic steroids and began injecting them with a 2-inch needle into my thigh and immediately began to grow like an ox. I felt like superman at around 18 stone.”

He was 21, living in a Christian hostel on income support, when he arrived for the Gladiator trial and outshone the competition by smiling throughout the ordeal. Within days he was whisked away in a stretch limousine to Heathrow Airport and flew first class to Mauritius to start training.

He was known as Ace during the long-running series at peak family viewing time on a Saturday night that drew a 16 million audience. He competed against imposing contestants, including professional stunt men keen to match their strength against the Gladiators to clinch the top prizes. “If I did not win 70% of the matches I

was sacked. We filmed each series, 20 episodes, in a month and then boosted our earnings with celebrity appearances and commercial sponsorships. But everything has a life span and the programme ended.”

Warren went on to reinvent his life. He took different jobs, settled down and had two children, but there were voids and growing unease. “It was time to go on a spiritual journey. I had been to enough churches to see they were boring and reading out of the bible made no sense. But I examined the evidence for two years, looking at atheism and world religions. I was undecided when, four years ago, I was invited to an alpha course. It was not in a church context and I was able to ask about the big questions in life and people would try to give me an honest answer.

“I was suspicious, intent on disproving the bible, but I met God through the person of Jesus Christ and was filled with the Holy Spirit, the power of God that gets things done. The next week my wife saw such a change in me that she turned to prayer and was filled with the Holy Spirit too. I had been disconnected from God through sin, but he wanted to restore me, not condemn me and did something about my sin when I recognised my need for a saviour in Jesus.” www.christcommunitychurch.co.uk

69

e x p e rt E Y E ca r e since 1924

Pilate Class s e requir s e pre-b ookin g Mondays

Aldeburgh

Tuesday

Huntingfield / Mendam & Withersdale l

Wednesday

Stradbroke / Walpole

Thursday

Huntingfield / Diss

Friday

Debenham

Contact nikkihambling@gmail.com or phone 07899 888778

Elaine Brown

In addition to a wide range of designer and classic frames, we offer an extensive range of eye care services and treatments to help improve your vision.We now offer a complete Earcare service as well.

C ECI L A MEY cecilamey.co.uk

Looking Good!

Massage Therapist and Beauty Services Consultant for Neal’s Yard Organic Remedies

• Spo orts rtt & Remedial Massage • Swedish & Hot Stone Massage • Indian Hea ad Massage • Reflexology • Sugaring (Waxing) • Hopi Ear Candless • Facials • Facial Massage • Basic Manicures • Basic Pedicures • Eyebrow Shape & Tint • Lymph Drainage www/uk.nyrorg ganic.com/shop/elainebrown Gift Voucherrs available Also available for sporting and cha arity events including pamper evenings Ring or text for informa ation or to book an appointment:

Meadow Vie ew, Maple Close, Yaxley

01379 788904 or 07894 255613

If you are looking for top class care, Oaklands is sure to tick all the boxes An elegant home in superb location Minutes away from Diss Top class person centred care Fun activities

Inspected and rated

Stunning garden popular all year round Oaklands Care Home, Norwich Road, Scole, Diss, Norfolk, IP21 4EE

www.theoaklands.care or call 01379 888 240 70

Fashion Snake print roll neck top New Look, £12.99

Mono spot long line shirt F&F, £16

TWO-TO ON E TREND

Zebra print shirt dress F&F, £25

Jasper Conran mono midi Debenhams, £49

Asmia pearl and chain tassle earrings Oliver Bonas, £22 Vivian Jewel ribbon collar Oliver Bonas, £38 Black and white tweed mini F&F, £16

Lola Skye cow print bag Dorothy Perkins, £22

Heeled lace-up boot Dorothy Perkins, £40

Zoe zebra handbag Accessorize, £25

71

K J ACCOUNTANCY A friendly and efficient service for the l

l Mortgages l Buy to Let Mortgages Equity Release Mortgages l Remortgages l Life, Critical Illness & Income Protection l Building & Contents l Insurance

T 01508 480155 M 07900 688554 kerry@mortgagehunters.co.uk www.mortgagehunters.co.uk

This is 1 of 61,000 copies Want your business noticed?

Prices start from £29 + vat per month*

01284 788 623 *For an eighth page advert in one magazine for 12 months

self-employed & small to medium business  Bookkeeping ~ Accounts ~ VAT Payroll ~ CIS ~ Tax Returns Tel: 01379 890502/01284 763687 Mob: 07788 408916/07718 257517 Self Assessment always a headache? Don’t worry, give it to us and get on with running your business.

We specifically support the smaller business in all accountancy and tax matters.

For a free, no obligation initial meeting call us today

Contact Graham Cormack

Newman & Co Chartered Accountants & Registered Auditors have been serving local businesses and individuals in East Anglia for over 20 years.

We offer a range of services to suit our clients’ individual needs that include: * Tax returns advice and planning * Preparation of annual accounts * Bookkeeping services and management accounts preparation * Business start-up advice * Payroll services including real-time processing * VAT returns and advice We provide an efficient and friendly service through our professionally qualified staff and believe that there is a real value in developing long-standing professional relationships with our clients.

Please contact us to arrange a free initial consultation.

T: 01953 630 004 E: grahamcormack@taxassist.co.uk Exchange Street,Attleborough, NR17 2AB www.taxassist.co.uk/attleborough

Mugford & Co Wills (Diss) Ltd Specialist in Wills and Lasting Powers of Attorney FREE home visits by local retired solicitor 30 years experience competitive prices NO VAT

t: 01379 674 127 www.mugfordwillsdiss.co.uk e: richardmugfords@gmail.com 72

Money

Time to spring clean your finances

W

ith the cold dark days of winter on the way out, and spring just around the corner, now’s a great time to give your finances the ‘once over’.

So, as well as dusting down the lawnmower ready for another year, and starting those little decorating jobs, it’s just as important to review your finances as part of your annual springcleaning routine.

Whether you’re a saver or borrower, the market is constantly changing and the products you took out a year or two ago may no longer represent the best deal.

Many savings accounts that once were top performers are now paying rates of less than 0.2%, and when you bear in mind that there are at least half a dozen instant access accounts paying 1.2% or more, it makes perfect financial sense to move your cash, to earn as much as possible on your nest egg.

rating is in good order, you will find a range of credit cards offering interest free balance transfers for more than 25 months, with Sainsbury’s Bank and Halifax joint top of the best buys, both with 29 months at 0%.

There’s good news on the personal loans front too, with rates almost the cheapest on record.

For a loan of £5,000 over 3 years, Tesco Bank is charging a representative APR of 3.5%, and for those looking for a slightly larger sum, M&S Money offers the best buy deal for loans over £7,500 at a table topping 2.9% APR fixed.

The area where you’re likely to save the most will be on your mortgage, and with rates not far off an all-time low at the back end of 2019, it makes sense to see what deals are currently available.

Long term fixed mortgages have become increasingly popular, and with five-year rates as low as 1.60%, it’s easy to see why.

Look at the Marcus from Goldman Sachs at 1.45% for example, or for the over 50s there’s the Saga Easy Access account paying 1.40%. Both products include an introductory bonus, so you’ll need to review your account again this time next year.

If you’re gradually repaying your credit card balance or personal loan, again, there are some excellent alternatives to consider. If your credit

By Andrew Hagger Founder of Moneycomms.co.uk

73

Recruitment that works for you

Whether you are looking for temporary, permanent, ffull or part time work – we have local opportunities that are right for you

Diss: 01379 777877 Norwich: 01603 764044 Thetford: 01842 750222 www.contract-personnel.com

DO YOU HAVE A SPARE ROOM TO RENT? could you benefit from some extra income? Would you like some company at home?

Solo Housing are a registered charity based in Diss. We have been successfully finding housing solutions for people aged 18-65 since 1985. Through our lodgings scheme we help single people in need of assistance to find accommodation in the form of renting a room in someone’s home.

We meet with all potential landlords and lodgers then match the requirements of both.

This will take away some of the uncertainty of finding the right lodger for your circumstances.

We are particularly in need of people that have a spare room to rent out in Norfolk and Suffolk This is a completely free service as we are a not for profit organisation.

If you have a spare room and think you can help or would like further information, please call 07760 166139 or call 01379 640250.

Charity number: 1068017 HCA Registered Provider number: 4696

74

Books

Regional Reads

THIS ISSUE WE L VE HISTORIC ENGLAND: NORFOLK Pete Goodrum Amberley 9781445691510 £14.99

View our region from a different perspective with this fascinating selection of local titles from Holly Ainley of Jarrolds’ Book Department

An illustrated history of Norfolk’s past, complemented by a collection of photographs from the Historic England Archive. Norfolk is still a largely rural county and is renowned today for its historical towns and villages, magnificent historic buildings, the royal residence at Sandringham, its long coastline with popular seaside resorts and atmospheric marshlands, and the unspoilt waterways of the Broads.

THE LANTERN MEN

Elly Griffiths Quercus 9781787477537 £18.99 The eagerly anticipated next instalment to Elly Griffiths’ Norfolk-set crime series.

The book will be launched on Thursday 6 February, and on publication day you can spend an Evening with Elly Griffiths at the Assembly House, 6.30-8.30pm.

Tickets and information available from Jarrold.

125 SUFFOLK CHURCHES OF VILLAGE AND COUNTRYSIDE Andrew Swift Velox Books 9780957570160 £25

THROUGH THE DECADES

Eastern Daily Press Archant Local Recall £7.99 each The Through the Decades magazine series celebrates the rich history of Norfolk from the 1960s to the 1990s. Each edition has been created by decade, with photographs and stories gathered from the Eastern Daily Press newspaper archives to show what was happening across the county in those times. The magazine is published in a four-part series exploring Norfolk’s history in the 1960s, 1970s, 1980s and 1990s. The magazines were made possible by the Local Recall Project and brought together by Archant. The project will digitise the entire Eastern Daily Press archive back to October 1870. All four magazines are available separately from Jarrold and in a box set.

This is the third of Andrew Swift’s series of books on East Anglian churches, following on from two others featuring churches from Norfolk. In this book there is a selection of the lovely but often overlooked churches of rural Suffolk, set in or near beautiful villages, or hidden away in deep countryside. Each church is afforded two facing pages and is enticingly described and illustrated in over 400 words and 15 or more external and internal colour photographs, taken by the author.

WRITERS OF THE WAVENEY VALLEY Ruth Walton Walton Associates 9781527249097 £10

From Diss to Gt Yarmouth, from 1470 to 2019, historian Ruth Walton discovers 60 writers who knew and loved the Waveney Valley. Home to many writers, as well as those passing through, from Skelton in the 15th century, to today’s novelists with an international reputation, such as Louis de Bernieres.

Writers of the Waveney Valley

Ruth Walton

75

STOP PRESS very limited space left in the

LOCAL DIRECTORY

ACCOUNTANTS KJ Accountancy Newman and Co Accountants Tax Assist Accountants AERIAL SERVICES Andy’s Aerials ANIMAL SERVICES Norfolk Dog Training Uplands Way Vets Ltd ARCHITECTURE & PLANNING Andrew P R Love Keith Day Architects ARTS & CRAFTS Susan’s Work Basket BATHROOMS AHM Installations PC Bathrooms & Kitchen Ltd Supreme Bathrooms & Kitchens BROADBAND County Broadband BUILDERS MERCHANTS Gravel Run BUILDERS, HANDYMEN & SUPPLIERS A Abercrombie Limited Adept Home Improvements DJA Handyman Services NSH Developments Ltd The Floor Sanding Co BUSINESS SERVICES Citrus Security Shredding CARE & MOBILITY First Choice Home Care Ltd NorseCare Ltd Oaklands CARPENTERS & JOINERS R B Joinery CARPETS & FLOORING Eye Flooring CARS, CARAVANS & GARAGES Caravan & Trailer Services CHIMNEY SWEEPS Anglia Chimney Sweeps CLEANING Crystal Clean Home Maid Domestic Cleaning

72 72 72 16 38 38 29 24 48 21 58 24 13 29

37 36 48 46 22 15 68 68 70 48 3 36 27 24 79

Maid2Clean(Suffolk) Ltd 34 COMPUTER, WEB & GRAPHIC DESIGN SERVICES Bailiwick IT Ltd 38 Centiflex 54 Philippa Green Web Design 52 COUNSELLING Aisling Counselling 62 CURTAINS, BLINDS & SHUTTERS Swift Blinds 48 The Curtains & Blinds Lady 38 DAYS & NIGHTS OUT, TRAVEL, HOLIDAYS East Anglian Brass Band Assoc 27 Eastons Holidays 18 Fairhaven Woodland & Water Gardens 54 Peter Beales Garden Centre 14 Simonds 6 Wingfield Barns 11 DRESSMAKING, SEWING, SOFT FURNISHINGS & UPHOLSTERY K V M Sewing Machines 51 Natalie Canning 52 ELECTRICIANS Blue Aura Electrical Services 48 Dave Ramstead Electrician 51 Harling Electrical 59 ESTATE AGENTS, LETTINGS & PROPERTY Lovell Homes 2 FINANCIAL, INSURANCE, BUSINESS & LEGAL SERVICES CBS East Anglia Ltd 29 Mortgage Hunters 72 FUEL MERCHANTS Diss Firewood 37 Watson Fuels 58 FUNERALS Rosedale Funeral Home 27 Susan Whymark Funeral Services 68 FURNITURE & RESTORATION Bespoke Handcrafted Furniture 51 GARAGE DOORS, GATES, SHUTTERS & AWNINGS Chapel Doors Ltd 14 Cooks Blinds & Shutters Ltd 42

The Doors Group Limited 32 GARDEN SERVICES A. Waterfield 46 Eclipse Gardening 44 Eye Gardens 45 Foundry Nurseries Ltd 42 Gard n Cox Garden Care 48 Lake and Pond Aquatics 44 P.D. Garden Services 45 Resin-Pave 33 The Garden Enclosure 43 The Lady Gardnener 27 Tree Fellas 38 W Noble Paving 32 GROUNDWORKS, DRAINAGE & SEPTIC TANKS Rory J Holbrook Ltd 24 HEALTH & BEAUTY Bressingham Beauty 67 Cambridge Diet with John Howard 17 Cecil Amey Ltd 70 Coltishall Clinic Ltd 67 Diss & Harleston Chiropody & Podiatry 62 Ear Irrigation East 62 Elaine Brown ComplimentaryTherapies 70 Geraldine Walters 64 Lucy Keil Foot Health Practitioner 62 Nicola Clarke Foot Health Practitioner 64 Ruth Walters 64 HOUSE CLEARANCE Cox’s House Clearance 10 IRONING SERVICES Ironed4U 24 Pressed-to-Go 62 JOBS Contract Personnel Ltd 74 Home Cleaning Vacancies 53 Solo Housing 74 KITCHENS Kitchen Sense of Harleston 27 PC Bathrooms & Kitchen Ltd 58 Supreme Bathrooms & Kitchens 24 Voyager Kitchens 4 PEST CONTROL Teresa Walker 27 Tim Crease Mole Catcher 10

Village People is a trading name of Village People Magazines Ltd. Village People accepts no liability for loss, damage, or difficulties resulting from contracts made through the magazine, nor from errors, omissions or claims made by advertisers. Publication of any entry does not imply a recommendation. Readers must make their own enquiries to establish the credentials of each entry. Magazine, adverts, design, layout and content Copyright © Village People Magazines Ltd. 2008-2020

76

next issue to feature local businesses PIANO TUITION Iris Sandison PLUMBING, HEATING, BOILERS & DRAINAGE Andy’s Oil Boiler Service Barnards Heating Solutions Ltd Else Heating & Plumbing Gasworks South East Kevin de Waal P & D Tank Services Ltd Pat The Plumber Paul Harvey Plumbing & Heating T W Services Waterson Plumbing & Heating Widdrington Heating Ltd PROPERTY MAINTENANCE M M Installations REMOVALS John Ryder Removals Van and a Man RESTAURANTS, PUBS, HOTELS, CATERING & FUNCTIONS Cafe Eye Hungry Cat Cafe Marsh Larder Momiji The Apiary Harleston The Good The Bad & The Hungry The Park Hotel Wyken Vineyards ROOFING A & L Roofing PAC Roofing SCHOOLS, COLLEGES, EDUCATION & CHILDREN Homeopathic College

27

40 40 40 51 51 51 40 79 46 40 40 54 22 65

34 34 34 34 34 8 14 6 24 51

64

Norfolk County Council Community Learning Services SECURITY Malthouse Security Ltd SHOPPING, BUYING & SELLING John Doe Carpets & Furniture Ltd Mustard Pot Productions SPORT, FITNESS & RECREATION Amanda Pilates Langmere Leisure Orchid Fitness STONE MASONRY Cutstone Ltd STORAGE Local Self Storage Diss Rookery Self Storage STOVES & FIRES Nexus Stoves Norfolk Woodburners THEATRE & CINEMA Theatre Royal TILING R Mutton WATER SOFTENERS, SALT & SOLUTIONS Clarity Water Solutions Kind Water WILLS Mugford & Co Wills (Diss) Ltd WINDOW CLEANING Cottrell Cleaning WINDOWS, DOORS & CONSERVATORIES Cloudy2Clear Windows Stratton Glass Waveney Windows

52 15 80 67 62 65 70 22 51 46

SPREAD T H E W O R D ADVERTISE IN

FROM JUST £29pm

16 11 60 59

52 9 72 29

17 19 22

IT WORKS! Don’t just take our word for it!

I have been advertising regularly in Village People for the last 8 years and this is the magazine that gets the best results for my business.

I always know when the magazine has been delivered as I get so many enquiries.

Other magazines do not have the same distribution numbers and so an advert in Village People reaches many more people in the right locations for me.

REACH UP TO 61,000 HOMES EACH ISSUE! CALL OUR FRIENDLY TEAM NOW ON

01284 788623

It’s a very interesting magazine with lots to read and lots of information for local people.

TO FIND OUT MORE

Christine Shelley

village-people.info

www.home-maid.info

77

Crossword

Exercise your brain cells

CLUES ACROSS

CLUES DOWN

7 8 9 10 11 13 14 15 18 20 21 22 24 25

1 2 3 4 5 6 12 16 17 18 19 23

Vote changed for the final ‘No’ (4) Pedestrian afterthought on the page (8) Raised with a cry for a colourful chase (3) Solemn ritual around could be a series of levels (4) What inscrutable providence decrees (4) Brought to the attention of those who might have an interest (6) Medication for cows, goats, horses and sheep (6) Partner for the mistress to obey (6) Stage in intensity with an academic rank (6) Wild country with a leafy shrub (4) Exact similarity of quality, character and consistency (4) Marine inlet where the wolf might call (3) Order to start and depart with speed (3, 5) Word that includes the addition of so many things (4)

Version of the highest quality (6) Argument with which to propel a boat (3) Idol made as an object of awe (6) Heated bar for a fast, exciting journey (3, 3) Very sharp position for living dangerously (5-4) Electricity generated from dry air (6) Hen fruit from north of the border (6, 3) Worn for good luck and spiritual safety (6) Generally rough, though it might be rural as well (6) Ask what is broken and you might get the bill (6) When it’s with time it usually means a passing period (6) Give this and you make room to pass (3)

LAST ISSUE’S SOLUTIONS ACROSS: 6) Pet, 7) Favourite, 9) Carry the can, 11) Bleak, 12) Transit, 14) Conceal, 15) Cushy, 17) Rule of thumb, 19) Disbelief, 20) Pry. DOWN: 1) Medallion, 2) Darts, 3) Bone dry, 4) Dreadnought, 5) Ate, 8) Breadcrumbs, 10) Nightmare, 13) Gazelle, 16) Offer, 18) Fin.

78

DO YOU NEED A CLEA EAN ANER? N WE CAN HELP!

We provide a regular weekly or fortnightly cleaning service from just £13 per hour (minimum 2 hours per visit).

Our cleaners are insured, carefully selected and love to clean.

ERS

AN CLE D AL E C T O y N L WA r weekl fit in ula rk to s g e R wo l hour o ning clea ith scho w

We have been cleaning homes in South Norfolk since 2011 and pride ourselves on providing a suitable and reliable cleaner for your individual needs.

Call our local family-run agency today for a friendly chat – we are here to help

For a perfectly clean home

01603 527 436 enquiry@home-maid.info www.home-maid.info

Paul Harvey

Plumbing & Oil Heating Engineer

For all your plumbing and oil requirements

OIL TANK REPAIRS AND INSTALLATIONS

✔ Installations ✔ Servicing & Maintenance ✔ Breakdown & Repairs ✔ Experienced Engineer

Reliable, Efficient and Competitively priced

E: pharveyoil84@gmail.com

M: 07887 478 568

79

80