Eastlife January 2019

Time to downsize?
Two bedroom bungalows
built exclusively for the over 55s with prices from £247,995
Live in a real community of like minded neighbours
The Croft at Baston,
Mayfield Gardens (off Chesham Drive), Baston, Lincolnshire PE6 9QW
Telephone 07917 761020 Sales office open: Saturday to Tuesday 10am – 5pm
Email: thecroftatbaston@larkfleethomes.co.uk
www.larkfleethomes.co.uk
3377 1218

suppose we are still ‘empty nesters’. The kids have grown up and now have homes of their own,
I so there’s just the two of us.
But it doesn’t feel as though we’re living in an empty
nest any longer. We’ve moved to The Croft at Baston
where our new home is ideal for our new circumstances –
and our new lifestyle.
The old family home was far too big for our needs once
the last of the children moved out. And looking after the
garden was becoming a real chore. The kids never did
much around the house, but at least they mowed the
lawn!
ADVERTORIAL
Empty nest – but full life
Moving to The Croft at Baston – a tranquil village
between Bourne in Lincolnshire and the city of
Peterborough – has allowed us to bank quite a bit of
cash.
We sold the old house at a very good price and spent
much less than that on our new one. Now we’ve started
spending the money we made as a result. We’ve bought
a new car and next week we’re off on a winter cruise –
the first of three holidays we have planned for this year.
Not that we feel any need to get away from here. There
is a real sense of community at The Croft and, although
we’ve only been here a few weeks, we’ve made some
good friends. We’ll feel much more relaxed on holiday
knowing they’ll keep an eye on the house while we’re
away.
And by the time we get back we may have some
new neighbours. The second phase of The Croft has
just opened, offering a small number of new homes
alongside the completed first phase. It is extending the
community but keeping it at a modest scale.
The whole development is designed to provide over-
55s – like us (whether retired or still working) – with the
independence of owning our own homes, combined with
the benefits of being part of a community of people with
a similar outlook on life.
The properties are mostly one and two-bedroom
bungalows located around attractive walkways and
gardens, creating a pleasant residential environment. All
of them have been designed to need minimal ongoing
maintenance – and our garden is a lot smaller than the
one we left behind, so there’s less mowing and weeding!
The village itself has a number of shops and excellent
pubs with restaurants.
We bought one of the larger bungalows so that we have
somewhere for the children to stay when they visit. They
have already been down a couple of times because it is
so easy to get to.
Of course, they expect to be picked up from the station
in Peterborough – which is only a few minutes away – but
if we want to go into the city ourselves, the frequent bus
service provides an easy alternative to using our brandnew
car. It does mean we can both have a couple of
glasses of wine with lunch without having to worry about
driving.
We really don’t think of this as an empty nest. It’s a full life at
The Croft in Baston, and we’re enjoying it to the full!
14/12/2018 09:02

Official government fuel consumption figures in mpg (litres per 100km) for the C-Class Saloon range: urban
Official 22.4(12.6)-54.3(5.2), government fuel extra consumption urban 38.2(7.4)-74.3(3.8), figures in mpg (litres combined per 100km) 30.4(9.3)-65.7(4.3). for the C-Class CO Saloon 2
emissions range: urban 213-108
22.4(12.6)-54.3(5.2), g/km. CO 2
emissions extra 132-104 urban g/km. 38.2(7.4)-74.3(3.8), Official EU-regulated combined test 30.4(9.3)-65.7(4.3). data are provided for CO comparison 2
emissions purposes 213-108
g/km. and actual CO 2
performance emissions 132-104 will depend g/km. on Official driving EU-regulated style, road conditions test data and are other provided non-technical for comparison factors. purposes
and actual performance will depend on driving style, road conditions and other non-technical factors.
The
The
new
new
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C-Class
Saloon.
Saloon.
Innovation
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in
in
every
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generation.
The new C-Class Saloon is ready to take you into the future with a
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and pull out of parking spaces.
The Mirror Package which offers electrically folding door mirrors
The alongside Mirror auto-dimming Package which rear-view offers electrically mirror is now folding standard door mirrors across the
alongside range. Beyond auto-dimming the new refinements rear-view mirror to the is new now C-Class standard Saloon, across Keyless the
range. Start sits Beyond beside the a new 3-spoke refi nements multifunction to the touch new C-Class control steering Saloon, Keyless wheel
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The best or nothing.
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Mercedes-Benz of of Bury Norwich, St Edmunds Barker Street, Mercedes-Benz Norwich NR2 4TN of Norwich
01284 759676
Mercedes-Benz 01603 980800
01603 980800
of www.baronsgroup.co.uk/mercedes-benz
Norwich, Barker Street, Norwich NR2 4TN
Mercedes-Benz
01603 980800
of
www.baronsgroup.co.uk/mercedes-benz
Cambridge
Mercedes-Benz of Kings Lynn
01223 401100
01553 777307
Mercedes-Benz of Peterborough
01603 980800
www.baronsgroup.co.uk/mercedes-benz

PUBLISHER - Sean Thompson
sean@eastlife.co.uk - 01954 267696
EDITOR - Emma Kemsley
emma@eastlife.co.uk - 01954 267904
PRODUCTION MANAGER/
GRAPHIC DESIGNER - Paul Balaam
paul@eastlife.co.uk - 01954 268142
SOCIAL MEDIA - Nicole Ranaweera
nicole@eastlife.co.uk - 07921 235539
WEB DEVELOPER - Craig Lewis
craig@eastlife.co.uk
ACCOUNTS / ENQUIRIES
accounts@eastlife.co.uk - 01954 268129
SALES ENQUIRIES
Darren Marshall - 01954 267088
Stewart Hedges - 01954 267164
Jim Leishman - 01954 267635
HEAD OFFICE
Unit 4, Avenue Business Park, Elsworth,
Cambridge, CB23 4EY
Special thanks to our contributors
Gerla De Boer, Dolly Osborne, Sue Cooke, Katrina Otter,
Collette Hoefkens, Wendy Howes, Ruth Essex, Mike
Garside, Kate Garside, Victoria Magnall, Ruby Reed,
Abby Knight, Karen Rhodes, Tessa Beecroft, Suzanne
Archer, The Suffolk Spy
From the
Dear Reader,
editor
There are no January blues here,
just pages of inspiration to help
you get out and about and make
a few good changes; be it within
your life, health or home. With a
New Year, comes new beginnings
and we have you covered.
Start your New Year by giving your home a little TLC. From
renovations and refurbishments to kitchen overhauls and
interior trends, there’s no room we’ve left untouched. A
promise to get fit and healthier is a great way to start the
year, but if you’re beginning to struggle, then read our
guide to maintaining the health kick on page 58.
Perhaps this year you’re one of the thousands of people
who are trying ‘Veganuary’ for the first time, if so, we’ve
made eating out a little easier with our pick of the best
vegan food trucks, plus there’s a whole community
of support with our Vegetarian & Vegan Facebook
group. Join the chat at www.facebook.com/groups/
Veggieandvegan. If you need something to look forward to
read our guide to the biggest 2019 events on page 19.
Wishing you a Happy New Year!
Emma Kemsley
EASTLIFE is published by Thompson Media Partners Ltd.
All rights reserved. Reproduction, in part or in whole, without the written
permission of the publisher is strictly prohibited. The views expressed by
contributors are not necessarily those of the publisher. All times, prices and
dates of events were correct at the time of going to press but readers are
advised to ring and check before setting out. Printed by Buxton Press.
On the
front cover:
Snowy Prentice Street
Find us on online:
/eastlifemag
@eastlifemag
@eastmagazines
www.eastlife.co.uk
Amie was born in Suffolk in
1991. She has lived and worked
there all her life, with the
exception of studying Fine Art
at Aberystwyth University in
Wales. Her work is inspired by
places of personal meaning.
She is both a painter and
printmaker and is represented
by galleries in Suffolk, Norfolk
and Hertfordshire.
DOWNLOAD OUR APP FOR
EASTLIFE ON THE GO
Available on the Google Play
and Apple App Stores.
Just search “eastlife”
www.amiehaslen.com
eastlife.co.uk 5

On all orders placed
before 31st December
2018

9-11 AROUND THE
REGION
A round-up of monthly news
and events
15-17 SPAS
The best spas for a detox
19-21 2019 EVENTS
A guide to this year’s biggest
events
19
24-25 FREE THINGS TO DO
Budget-friendly days out
30-37 EDUCATION
Spring open days
43-45 DOG-FRIENDLY
Tails About Town and how to get
fit with your pet
47 LITTLE EAST
Mum’s the Word
45
49-55 FOOD & DRINK
News, the Cambridge Foodie,
vegan food trucks & cosy pubs
58-67 HEALTH
How to maintain the health kick
69-71 FASHION
Get ahead with a hat and savvy
sale shopping
74-75 WEDDINGS
2019 trends
15
53
January 2019
Contents
81-105 INTERIORS
Top tips & expert advice for giving
your home a stylish makeover
107-109 ARTS
Monthly column and the latest news
141
125-129 NORFOLK
Secret Norfolk; vegan hotspots
78
110-115 ESSEX
10 of the best Essex villages to visit
in 2019
117-123 SUFFOLK
A guide to Stowmarket and
Saxmundham
132-137 BEDS, BUCKS & HERTS
Why we love Hertford & Ware
139-145 CAMBRIDGESHIRE
The Cambridge Scene and what’s on
in Peterborough
eastlife.co.uk 7

MARKETING
SUITE NOW OPEN
IN SAFFRON WALDEN
Private retirement living at its finest
DEBDEN
GRANGE
Cottages ready Summer 2019
Apartments ready Summer 2020
Buy off plan now to secure your plot
01799 243888 | www.debdengrange.co.uk
debdengrange@retirementvillages.co.uk
VISIT US at our Marketing Suite:
Monday - Saturday 9am - 5pm. OPEN 27th - 29th December
CLOSED - 24th - 26th December, 30th December - 1st January
Debden Grange Marketing Suite, 6 Rose & Crown Walk,
Saffron Walden, CB10 1JH

Eastlife Diary
Around
the region
The Neutrinos 20th anniversary concert + special
guests Graceland
Saturday 26 January 8pm
Norwich Arts Centre, St Benedicts Street, Norwich, NR2 4PG
Fronted by the charismatic Karen Reilly, The Neutrinos are very much more
than a just a rock band, they constantly experiment with the concept of what
a live gig can (and should) be to break down both real and imagined barriers
between the band and the audience. Tickets £9.50 advance, £11.50 on the
door. www.norwichartscentre.co.uk
Respect to Aretha
18 January
The Alive Corn Exchange,
Kings Lynn, Norfolk
A brand-new UK tour starring Letitia
George. A heartfelt and uplifting
dedication to the Queen of Soul, Aretha
Franklin. Life-long Aretha Franklin fan
and power-house vocalist, Letitia George,
rose to the spotlight after featuring on
series 4 of BBC 1’s The Voice UK, where
she became a member of Team Ricky and
soared her way through to the knockout
rounds.
www.kingslynncornexchange.co.uk/
whats-on
The English Concert
Saturday 26 January,
Saffron Hall, Saffron
Walden CB11 4UH
The high baroque era was an age
of limitless musical possibilities –
of brilliant innovations, virtuoso
reworks, and music of electrifying
theatricality and grandeur. The
English Concert, led from the
harpsichord by Harry Bicket,
celebrate all that splendour in a
concert of Vivaldi, Purcell, Locatelli
& Bach.
Tickets priced from £14-£32.
www. saffronhall.com
Open Mic night @ Hitchin
Starbucks with Hazel
Askew Special Guest
Sunday 20 January, from 5pm
FREE ENTRY
If you play an instrument, sing or
perform, this is for you! This is an
Open Mic night with a twist! Perform
live and get feedback on your
performance from celebrated musician
Hazel Askew. You’ll get tips on how to
improve your technique, your stage
presence, or anything else you want!
This is a special collaboration between
Queensway and Benslow Music.
To take part call 01462 459446 to
reserve a spot or visit
www.benslowmusic.org/concerts
Sing Out Saturdays – sing yourself free in 2019!
Have you always wanted to sing, but never got around to it? Do
you love to sing but want to do more? Do you want to sing yourself
free and have fun? Help is at hand! Singing leader Chris Rowbury
runs regular singing get-togethers in Hadleigh. These fun and
friendly mornings of song are open to anyone who wants to sing.
They take place every third Saturday of the month.
Sing Out Saturdays run from 10.30am to 1pm. They are held at
the Ansell Community Centre, Market Place, Hadleigh, IP7 5DL.
The first session of 2019 is on Saturday 19 January. Simply turn
up on the day – no commitment needed and you don’t have to
come every month. Sessions cost only £9 per person including
refreshments. www.singoutsaturdays.co.uk
eastlife.co.uk 9

Around the
region
The Grafton Centre, Cambridge gets a
make over
If you’re a regular visitor to Cambridge, you will have
noticed the works taking place at The Grafton Centre
for some time, but finally (just in time for Christmas), its
grand refurbishment was revealed.
The centre has undergone a £28.5 million refurbishment
and reconfiguration to create bright and open spaces,
adding to its shopping, leisure and dining facilities,
bringing everything together under one roof at the
Fitzroy Street mall.
Shoppers can now benefit from improved stores and
new openings, including River Island’s anchor store in
a prominent position at the front of the mall, which has
consolidated its existing, smaller River Island Boutique.
The new store will feature the brand’s newest look-andfeel
concept and will showcase a wider selection of
the latest women’s, men’s and children’s clothing and
accessories.
The Debenhams store has also undergone a significant
refurbishment to create the addition of its new ‘beauty
hall of the future’. It was one of only five Debenhams
stores to receive investment in the country and to roll
out the new concept. The beauty hall merges an online
and instore shopping experience with digital screens
streaming social media content and videos. It now stocks
brands such as Murad skin care and Kat Von D make
up, which is vegan and cruelty free, as well as emerging
make up brands such as Laura Gellar. Shoppers can enjoy
the Benefit Brow Bar and the addition of a ‘pick and mix’
make up section.
The reconfiguration of the former BHS store has created
new opportunities within the centre, with the first floor
opened up and connected to the former food court area
to create the new Food Social dining quarter. It is home
to the independent, family-owned Amélie, which opened
last year. Food Social will be home to eight casual dining
restaurants and will be integrated with the centre’s leisure
offer, including a revamped, eight-screen Vue Cinema,
and a new Pure Gym health club.
John O’Shea, Centre Manager at The Grafton said: “The
end result is a new identity for the centre, a significantly
improved customer experience and an enhanced retailer,
restaurant and leisure offering.
“Both River Island and Debenhams have invested to
increase and improve their presence at the centre. This
has not only further strengthened the fashion offer at
the centre but also introduced a host of exciting beauty
brands that cannot be found elsewhere in Cambridge.”
10 Download Our App Today!

New Term of Leisure Learning at
Ipswich Institute
Enrolments are now being taken for the Spring Term of
Adult, Leisure Learning evening courses at the Ipswich
Institute.
A range of over 20 evening courses are on offer at the
historic town centre premises in Tavern Street and the
Admiral’s House in Tower Street. On-going favourites
include languages (including various levels of French,
Italian, Spanish, Latin and Japanese), Guitar, Ukulele and
Photography, plus a variety of arts and crafts (including
Sketchbooking, Printmaking, Textiles, and Life Drawing).
New for the Spring Term are Computer Programming
using Java; an introduction to the programming
language which will enable you to create and run your
own programs on your own PC, Moving On; an informal
and friendly course to help you increase your confidence
in life’s changes – be it employment, domestic, or in
social situations and Public Speaking, which enables you
be confident about speech making – whether in business,
education or for social functions.
Enrolment is available now and the spring term
takes place Monday – Thursday evenings from Week
Commencing 14 January. You may book in person at the
Institute or reserve your place by calling
01473 253992. www.ipswichinstitute.org.uk
A new lease of life is given to Woodland
Manor Hotel, Bedfordshire
Peterborough Telegraph’s Young Entrepreneur of the
year, Raj Regmi, has renovated Woodland Manor Hotel, in
Clapham, Bedfordshire.
The renovation which include updates and transformation,
while retaining its grandeur, has taken eight months.
The changes to the manor house include structural
work in the Autographs room, replacement carpets and
furnishings, redecoration and removal of years and years
of overgrowth of ivy to the façade of the manor.
The boutique-style hotel is now open and features 34
bedrooms. The venue will be available for weddings,
events, afternoon tea, business and leisure. It will also
feature on Channel 4s series ‘Escape to the Manor’.
www.woodlandmanorhotel.co.uk
Warm up this winter with Orion Heating
Winter is truly here and if you’re feeling the chill, Orion Heating, the
fireplace and stove business in Takeley, Essex, can provide lots of ideas for
adding character to a modern room.
Without a focal point, the living room in a new build property can need
something extra. Improvements in gas fire technology have created
new types of fireplace with a large window, lots of natural flames and
visual impact. A modern gas fire can provide a traditional focal point to a
previously bare wall or create a stunning modern feature fireplace.
Just like a central heating boiler, Balanced Flue stoves or fireplaces can flue
straight through the wall, with no need for chimneys or exterior pipe runs.
Plus the fire is entirely room-sealed, making it safe and very economical to
run. Being warm and stylish has never been so easy!
Find out how Orion Heating can help improve your home at
www.orionheating.co.uk
eastlife.co.uk 11

visit our website
highlodge.co.uk
see what else we do
Clay Shooting | Weddings | Celebrations
Luxury Lodge Accommodation | Footgolf | Golf
Sunday Carvery | Corporate Events and much more!
01986 784347 | www.highlodge.co.uk

Ickworth
Indulge your new love for winter
walks and watch as our historic
displays of snowdrops light up the
pathways. Book one of our guided
tours or take it at your own pace.
When you visit, donate, volunteer or join
the National Trust, your support helps us
to look after special places for ever, for
everyone.
nationaltrust.org.uk/ickworth
© National Trust 2018. The National Trust is an independent registered charity, number 205846. Photography © National Trust Images\Justin Minns.
#nationaltrust
OPEN NORWICH
20 BANK PLAIN, NORWICH, NR2 4SF
22ND MARCH 2019 - 19:30
ALEXANDER ANATOLE ENTERTAINMENT
presents
THE SIXTIES
INVASION
TAKING YOU BACK TO THE
MOST EXCITING MUSICAL TIME
IN HISTORY, WHEN POP MUSIC
WAS AT ITS BEST!
TICKETS
£22.50
Plus booking fee
FEATURING THESE WORLD FAMOUS BANDS
DOZY, BEAKY, MICK AND TICH
60’s Hitmakers Dozy, Beaky, Mick and Tich Hits include:
Hold Tight, The Legend of Xanadu, Zabadak,
Hideaway, Bend It and Save Me
In a special one off appearance, They carry the legend
forward playing the worldwide number one record TELSTAR,
they create a beat stomping show that does not disappoint.
Hits include: Build Me Up Buttercup, Now that I’ve found you.
SEATED EVENT, TO AVOID DISAPPOINTMENT PLEASE BOOK IN ADVANCE
TO BOOK PLEASE CALL: 01603 763111 OR VISIT
www.seetickets.com I www.thesixtiesinvasion.com

Revitalise
at the
Region’s
Best Spas!
Lifestyle
Written by Ruby Reed
Instagram @rubymayree
Ruby is the author of ‘Loyal
Liar’ available on Amazon
New Year is always about a New You. But
sometimes the task or promise we make
ourselves can take its toll. Well how about
something that’s not going to get old - a pledge
to look after ourselves a little better. Liking the
sound of this? Me too…
I don’t know about you, but I can probably count on one
hand my spa experiences. Is that normal? But when I think
about it, why not have a time out more often? There is
nothing I like more than a gentle swim, sauna and steam
room. Don’t forget to throw in a treatment, you deserve it!
It’s so important to de-stress occasionally so here are few of
the best places around to do this…
Ufford Park in Woodbridge, Suffolk
Bedford Lodge
in Newmarket, Suffolk
Now how about this, bring the spa to you! You
may need the boss’ permission but hey I know
what I’m raising in the next office meeting. The
Spa at Bedford Lodge Hotel have launched its
‘Wellbeing in the Workplace’ Initiative for the
local community. The visiting therapists provide
a choice of treatments that are bespoke to the
client’s needs. Designed for workers across
all industries, the pop-up spa offers a mini
menu of treatments to provide an immediate
improvement in staff productivity and mood.
Choose from an Indian head massage to reduce
tension in pressure points, a hand and arm
massage to relax computer finger and hand
aches and mini-foot treatments for those that
are on their feet.
To find out more get the boss to call
01638 676130. www.bedfordlodgehotel.co.uk
A day (or half day) of relaxation here is very flexible.
Consisting of two, three and six-hour time-slots, you
can choose the amount of time to spend at Ufford Parks
Thermal Suite alongside that spent experiencing your
treatment. Just book your time slot with the therapists
– even when booking you don’t have to commit to a
treatment as you can choose on the day of your visit, which
is ideal if you can’t decide just yet or are prone to changing
your mind! The ‘Thermal Suite’ experience is based on the
ancient ritual of bathing, where the body is treated using a
series of hot and cooling experiences, guiding your body
through a sensory journey. Facilities include a hydro pool,
aroma steam room and ice fountain. Oooh sign me up!
To find out more contact the spa team directly on
01394 386871. www.uffordpark.co.uk
eastlife.co.uk 15

Varsity Hotel in Cambridge,
Cambridgeshire
I’m really excited about this one - how have I
never been? This restored bonded warehouse
has a Jacuzzi, steam room, sauna and state-ofthe-art
gym overlooking the river - the ultimate
place to relax, rejuvenate and de-stress. You
can create your own bespoke spa day or half
day which can include afternoon tea or lunch
in the SIX Panoramic Brasserie (one of my
favourite restaurants and one of the best views
in Cambridge might I add). A wide range of
massages, facials, body treatments including
waxing, nails, eyes and hair care are available
for couples, gents and mums-to-be. A lovely
way to remember a special occasion. They are
refurbing in January, so be one of the first to
experience!
To find out more and book early to
avoid disappointment contact
01223 306030. www.thevarsityhotel.co.uk
Norfolk Woods Resort & Spa
in King’s Lynn, Norfolk
The aim is to leave your stresses at the door when
you book yourself into the brand new spa at Norfolk
Woods Resort & Spa. This must experience is in
a location surrounded by gorgeous woodland
and countryside which only adds to the calming
ambience on offer. Bookings are available as an individual, couple
or group, with each person being able to select the spa treatments
or beauty therapies they want. Don’t worry about following the
crowd – it’s whatever your heart desires, Norfolk Woods provides.
Oh and the food on offer here is up to just as high a standard as the
spa treatments. This month they launch their brand new cosy lodges
perfect for a weekend break, some even include a private hot tub! If
you’re reluctant to leave you may be interested to know they also sell
holiday lodges located onsite!
For further information on Norfolk Woods call 01760 751370.
www.darwinescapes.co.uk/parks/norfolk-woods-resort-spa
16 Download Our App Today!

Greenwoods Hotel & Spa, Essex
Just voted Essex Wedding Award’s Venue of
the Year, this stunning spa is based in a grade
II listed building that has nine treatment
rooms. It offers a range of professional
treatments alongside a 20 metre pool,
jacuzzi, sauna, steam and relaxation rooms.
During your stay you have the chance to use
the newly refurbished gym and join in a fun
class including HITT and yoga.
A ‘Winter Warmer’ package is available
Monday to Friday which includes full use of
spa facilities, a delicious two-course lunch in
Ellis’ restaurant, a deep tissue back massage
and blissful foot and leg massage with hot
mitts, both for 20 minutes. Ideal for a little
New Year pampering, especially after a hectic
festive season! Ahhhh.
Call the reservations team on 01277 829990.
With all these treats waiting to be enjoyed, I
think 2019’s New Year’s resolution of taking
better care of ourselves might not be too
hard after all!
eastlife.co.uk 17

Reg. Charity No 307534
WWW.SHUTTLEWORTH.ORG
SHUTTLEWORTH, OLD WARDEN AERODROME, SG18 9EP - 01767 627927
Shuttleworth is a visitor attraction with lots to offer for all ages. The Collection is a treasure trove of
airworthy vintage aircraft, agricultural exhibits, classic cars, motorcycles, bicycles and vintage buses.
Our adjacent Swiss Garden has 13 listed structures, woodland sculpture walk and a resident peacock.
Flying displays take place May-October, events and children’s activities run throughout the year. We
have a children’s play area, on-site restaurant, free wifi, Visitor Centre with gift shop and free parking!
DAILY ADMISSION: www.shuttleworth.org/book-a-ticket
2018 12 Woodbridge Talk Jan Disco.qxp_135mm h x 89mm w 06/12/201
Ufford Park Woodbridge
80’s 90’s
DISCO
and
Friday
18th
January
7:30pm to midnight
Walk this way & get into the groove as we celebrate the good times.
£9.50 per person
Due to popular demand tickets must be purchased in advance.
STUCK FOR SOMETHING
TO DO THIS WEEK?
Visit us www.eastlife.co.uk for
the latest events in your area.
DON’T FORGOT TO ENTER
OUR COMPETITIONS!
www.eastlife.co.uk/lifestyle/competitions/
Nachos with melted cheese and salsa (£3.50)
and chunky chips (£3.00) will be available
Limited seating
t 01394 383555 ext. 325
w www.uffordpark.co.uk
Fancy dress optional
Yarmouth Road | Woodbridge | Suffolk | IP12 1QW
Like us on Facebook /eastlifemag
Follow us on Twitter @eastmagazines
Follow us on Instagram @eastlifemag
www.eastlife.co.uk

2019 Diary Dates
The festive fun is over and the month
ahead may look dreary but don’t let
the January blues get you down. The
region’s biggest and most exciting events
have started to announce 2019 dates, so
give yourself something to look forward
to and book your ticket to one of the most
highly anticipated events of the year…but
hurry, tickets won’t be around for long!
Horror-On-Sea Film Festival,
11- 13 and 18-20 January
Park Inn by Radisson Palace Hotel,
Southend, Essex
Since its inception in 2012, Horror-On-Sea has grown to
become the UK’s largest independent festival devoted
to the genre and for the first time, will now be spread
across two weekends.
From vampires to hookers with hacksaws, murderous
hillbillies selling strange ‘beef’ to hellacious cats named
‘Angel’, Horror-on-Sea promises full-length features
and shorts from across the whole horror spectrum
- including killer donuts. Unlike the fate of many
characters in the films, tickets won’t cost moviegoers an
arm and a leg. Prices start at just £6 per film, from £25
for a Day Pass and, for serious fans, a Mega Festival
Pass - that gets you into everything – offers unbeatable
value deal at £100 for the entire festival.
www.horror-on-sea.com
David Austrin -
40 years of the Winter Garden
Saturday 9 February,
10am to 1pm
Cambridge University Botanic
Garden, 1 Brookside, Cambridge
CB2 1JE
Price: £35
To celebrate 40 years of Cambridge
University Botanic’s Winter Garden, join
horticulturist David Austrin, from the team
who cares for the garden, and discover
his top 10 winter plants to making your
garden sparkle right through the season.
David will take you on a tour of the oldest
winter garden in the country to find out
which plants make it so special. With
tips and time for questions, you’ll leave
inspired to create your own winter garden
plantings at home. Booking required.
www.botanic.cam.ac.uk
The Banff Mountain Film
Festival World Tour
February – March
The Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour is
celebrating its 10th year of touring the UK and Ireland,
bringing over 100 adrenaline-packed shows to almost
60 venues from January to May. It features two different
collections of brand-new films from the world’s most
intrepid film-makers, starring pioneers and explorers
tackling extraordinary expeditions in the wildest corners
of the planet. The tour will be visiting the Cambridge
Corn Exchange from 15-16 February, St Albans Alban
Arena on 19 March and Norwich Theatre Royal on 20
March. www.banff-uk.com
Photo credit Ben Tibbetts
eastlife.co.uk 19

The Solid Silver 60s Show
March to April
Southend, St Albans & Milton Keynes
Celebrating the original package shows of the 1960s,
where fans would see a raft of artists performing their
hits on one incredible bill, the show has been performed
to over a million people since its first tour in 1985. You
can catch a performance at Southend Cliffs Pavilion on
15 March, St Albans Alban Arena on 10 April and Milton
Keynes Theatre on 14 April.
Essex’s Big Weekend
6-7 April
2019 will see Visit Essex’s third Big Weekend, when
hundreds of residents will be able to visit some of the
county’s finest tourist attractions for free. The event
is designed to encourage residents to rediscover the
amazing things to see and do in their home county.
Attractions will be donating free tickets for residents to
bid on from 21 February, and two tickets per household
will be allocated by ballot to the lucky winners (some
family tickets will be available as well).
www.essexbigweekend.co.uk
Norfolk & Norwich Festival
10-26 May
The largest arts festival in the East of England returns
for another year of entertainment from some of the
UK’s leading artists and performers. ‘A Simple Space’
by Gravity & Other Myths will headline the Adnams
Spiegeltent, where seven acrobats push their physical
limits without reserve. Norwich Theatre Royal will host
enchanting dance performances from the likes of ‘Bells
and Spells’ and ‘Blak Whyte Gray’. The full line up can be
found at www.nnfestival.org.uk
Bury St Edmunds Festival
17 – 26 May
Now in its 34th year, enjoy 10 packed days of great
music, theatre, comedy, film and other art forms with top
performances by artists of international renown alongside
home-grown talent. Venues range from The Apex and
Theatre Royal to St Edmundsbury Cathedral, the Abbey
Gardens and Moyse’s Hall Museum. The full programme
will be available from February at www.buryfestival.co.uk
Forest Live, 21-23 June
Thetford Forest, near Brandon, Suffolk
If you haven’t been to a Forest Live gig, make sure it’s on
your to do list this year! Taking place in Thetford Forest,
the gigs host some of the biggest names in music and
are a great opportunity to make the most of the light
evenings and enjoy fantastic live music with the backdrop
of the woodlands. This year Paul Weller takes to the stage
on 21 June, followed by Jess Glynne on 22 June. Tickets
are priced from £44.50, and money raised from ticket
sales will help to look after the nation’s forests sustainably,
for people to enjoy and wildlife to thrive. Tickets are now
on sale. www.forestryengland.uk/music
TASTE Bedford
13 July, 11am - 6pm, Mill Meadows, Bedford
Bedford’s annual food and music festival returns to
Mill Meadows with more street food, food demos,
local producers, live music and kid’s activities than ever
before. This hugely popular event is a great day out for
all the family. It’s free to attend - just make sure you go
hungry! www.bedpop.co.uk
Red Rooster
30 May – 1 June, Euston Hall, Suffolk
The RnB, Americana, Blues, Soul, Roots and Country music festival
is back for another year with a stellar line-up of artists including
headliners Nick Lowe & Los Straitjackets, rock’n’rollers Low Cut
Connie, country music maverick Dale Watson & His Lone Stars,
Jesse Dayton and Errol Linton to name a few! It’s not just the
music that makes this festival a sell-out, its laid back vibe, soul
food, location and fantastic camping facilities makes it a popular
choice with families of all ages. Don’t think twice about booking!
Weekend tickets priced from £69.50.
www.redrooster.org.uk
22 Download Our App Today!

Classic Ibiza 31 August
Hatfield House,
Hertfordshire
Classic Ibiza is bringing its heady
blend of Balearic beats back to
Hatfield House this year, following
the resounding success of last
summer’s concert. Classic Ibiza
starts with a chill-out set where
people can enjoy their picnics
and a drink, or dance along as the
sun fades. Then DJ Goldierocks
will turn things up in the interval,
getting the crowd into the mood
before the Urban Soul Orchestra
and vocalists return to the stage
to bring a vibrant atmosphere to
the summer evening. One classic
dance track will follow another, as
the delightful grounds of Hatfield
House turn into a magical, alfresco
celebration, with accompanying
lasers. Tickets from £39.50.
www.classicibiza.co.uk
Thriller Live at Newmarket Nights
19 July, Newmarket Racecourse, Suffolk
If you’re a Michael Jackson fan this is one not to be
missed! For the first time Newmarket Nights will host
Thriller Live on its stage – a spectacular concert created
to celebrate the career of the world’s greatest entertainer,
Michael Jackson. Now in its 10th year, the two hour West
End production will take you on an electrifying visual and
audio journey through the magic of Michael’s 45-year
musical history, playing his greatest hits and paying
homage to Jackson’s legendary innovative dance moves
executed with flair. This show is guaranteed to have you
dancing! Tickets priced from £25.
www.thejockeyclublive.co.uk
Cool Britannia Festival
30 August - 1 September
Knebworth House, Hertfordshire
Back by popular demand, Cool Britannia will continue to
tend to the needs of rock and dance music fans in 2019
with camping, glamping, street food, themed bars, street
entertainers, funfairs, kid-zone, fireworks, trade stands,
karaoke and much more! TV and radio presenter Jo
Whiley will curate the Main Stage on Saturday 31 August.
The full line up will be announced later this month.
www.coolbritanniafest.com.
SpectaculArts Carnival
7 September, Bedford Park, Bedford
Bedford is known for its wonderfully diverse population
and the SpectaculArts Carnival will bring the town’s
communities together for a town-wide carnival
celebration. The parade throughout the town centre
will be a moving show, featuring actors, musicians,
storytellers, audience participation, street performers
and spoken word, culminating in a festival in Bedford
Park. Absolutely unmissable! @SpectaculArts
HighTide Festival
10-15 September, Aldeburgh, Suffolk
Returning to the coastal town for another year, the
festival brings together political, contemporary and
provocative work, created by new and diverse artists.
At the centre of the Aldeburgh event will be ‘LIT’; a coproduction
between HighTide and Nottingham Playhouse
Theatre Company. It explores the turbulent teenage years
of a girl looking for love in all the wrong places.
The performance joins ‘Rust’ as the headline productions
for HighTide Festivals Aldeburgh and Walthamstow.
The full festival programme will be announced in May
when tickets go on sale. www.hightide.org.uk
eastlife.co.uk 21

Advertorial
Bressingham Steam Museum
2019 EVENTS
Heritage Steam Gala
Saturday 4 May 2019 to Monday 6 May 2019
A celebration of steam at
Bressingham Steam Museum.
The highlight of Bressingham’s events calendar where
there will be over 20 engines in steam each day over this
special Bank Holiday Weekend!
The Gala will officially welcome vertical boiler 2ft
locomotive ‘Fernilee’ to Bressingham. This engine has
joined the Bressingham Collection on loan and will be
seen throughout the weekend performing a number of
duties on the Fen Railway.
The museum will be joined by a number of visiting traction
engines and steam rollers over weekend.
Please visit www.bressingham.co.uk for full listings of the
engines
1940s Day
Sunday 12 May 2019
A Celebration
of Croft and Perry.
Bressingham will once again be supported by the
Dad’s Army Appreciation Society as they celebrate 50
years of Dad’s Army. We are pleased to announce that
Bressingham will be joined by some of the cast and crew
from Croft and Perry sitcoms. Our special guests will be
making appearances throughout the day.
We are expecting the following actors to attend our 1940s
event:
Michael Knowles , John Clegg, Frank Williams, Harold
Snoad, Ronnie Grainge, Dave Webb, Charles Garland,
Felicity Montagu, Jon Pertwee (Son of Bill Pertwee),
Nicholas Ridley (Son of Arnold Ridley) & more
Bressingham will be full of displays, entertainment and
stalls which includes music from Sounds from the era
performed by Timescape, Swing & jive from Texas Tommy
and the Jitterbug dancers. Living history/ re-enactment
groups which include Allied Star Re-enactment group, The
Royal Norfolk’s Living History Group. The Ethan Reuban
History boys and Airbourne Assault 44
Vehicles:
A variety of period vehicles will be on display throughout
the museum grounds with support from the Norfolk
Military Vehicle Group.
Steampunk Weekend
Sat 6 Jul 2019 to Sun 7 Jul 2019
A fabulous weekend of Norfolk punkery
at BresSteam
Stalls:
There will be a variety of trade stalls including Robert
Taylor Military Collectables, vintage hand knits & 1940s
Style for You
BresSteam. A celebration of all things Steampunk. A festival
of the future as Victorians may have imagined it. Splendid
costume, creativity, imagination and invention. Amongst
Bressingham’s magnificent collection of functioning Steam
Engines.
Steampunk Market
Where you will be able to purchase all manner of exciting
Steampunk artefacts, we currently have thirteen traders
booked..
Tea Duelling and Umbrella Fencing and more provided by
Steampunk Shenanigans.
Nothing up our sleeves
An informal collective of highly skilled and sumptuously
attired Magicians, Jugglers, Comedians and Comperes.
For more info and more events go to www.bressingham.co.uk

Steam Heritage|Gardens|Garden Centre
www.bressingham.co.uk
2019 Season Opens
Friday 29 March 2019
check www.bressingham.co.uk or call 01379 686900
for further details
Find us on Facebook & Twitter
just search for Bressingham Steam

8 Things
to do on a
Budget in
January
So Christmas is over, you’re partied out and that
credit card bill is weighing heavily on your mind.
There’s no need to succumb to the January blues
though as luckily the best things in life are free (or
almost)! So, wrap up warm, grab a flask of hot tea and
get out and about…
1. See the Seals in Norfolk
A fun day out for friends, family or just by yourself. Take
your camera and/or binoculars and walk the Norfolk
coastline this January. You’ll find a whole host of seals
and their babies whilst they hang on the beaches waiting
for the baby pups to be old enough to swim. Best
beaches for seal spotting: Horsey, Waxham, Blakeney
Point and Brancaster
2. Culture in Cambridge
Entry to the Fitzwilliam Museum (www.fitzmuseum.cam.
ac.uk) and the Sedgwick Museum (www.sedgwickmuseum.org)
is free, although donations are welcomed.
From lunchtime talks to exhibitions and displays you can
get out of the cold and happily while away a few hours.
You can also pop along to Kings College Chapel for
Evensong, 5.30pm Mon – Sat and 10.30 or 3.30pm on
Sunday (www.kings.cam.ac.uk/events/chapel-services).
3. Explore Essex and walk in Constable’s footsteps
There is nothing nicer than warming up in front of the fire
with a hot chocolate and the Essex countryside is perfect
to enjoy a brisk winter walk! Dedham Vale and Stour
Valley combine picturesque villages, farmland, rivers and
woodlands for unspoilt views across the countryside. This
is Constable Country, an area of outstanding beauty, so
take a stroll through the scenes from some of his most
famous landscapes.
4. Free Family friendly fun in Bedfordshire
There’s a whole world of free, family friendly fun to be
discovered in Bedford! Pop into the Cecil Higgin’s art
gallery for free children events or to take a look at their collections,
explore the Stockwood Discovery Centre in Luton,
educate the kids about conservation at the Forest Centre
in the Millennium Country Park in Marston Vale or take a
guided tour of Stotwold Watermill and Nature Reserve.
5. Healthy walking in the Cambridgeshire countryside
Every Thursday walkers meet at Wandlebury Country
Park for a stroll around the beautiful park. All abilities are
welcome and there’s a choice of either a long walk starting
at 10am or short route at 10.30am. Meet at the Stable
Rooms, enjoy a lovely walk and finish at around 11am for
tea and coffee. It’s a great opportunity to get out and
about, become healthier and meet new people. The event
is free to attend but donations towards the up keep of the
park are welcome. There’s no need to book, just arrive 10
minutes early to register. www.cambridgeppf.org/whats-on
6. Join a local reading group
Not an outdoors person? Luckily our region’s libraries have
a huge choice of reading groups to enable you to connect
with like-minded people and make new friends this January.
Ask for details in your local library or take a look online.
Suffolk: www.suffolklibraries.co.uk
Norfolk: www.norfolk.gov.uk/libraries-local-history-and-ar
chives/libraries
Cambridge: www.cambridgeshire.gov.uk/residents/librar
ies-leisure-&-culture/libraries
Essex: www.libraries.essex.gov.uk
Bedford: www.bedford.gov.uk/leisure_and_culture/
libraries.aspx
24 Download Our App Today!

7. Treasure seeking at antique stores
Hidden throughout the countryside of Norfolk, Suffolk and
Essex you’ll find antique stores selling gorgeous furnishings
and wares of a time gone by. Great for browsing or buying
items such as mirrors, kitchenalia or a statement piece of
furniture for your home, it’s easy to spend hours hunting
for a bargain! A few favourites include Holt Antiques &
Interiors Centre, Suffolk Heritage Antiques & Reclaim
Centre in Copdock and Reed & Son in Saffron Walden,
Essex. Don’t forget to take a look at our website for
hundreds of antique fairs taking place throughout the year,
most are free to attend or cost as little as £1 entry.
8. Vintage vocation
All aboard! Steam trains and vintage railways are one of
the highlights of the East of England. Hop aboard the
Colne Valley Railway in Essex, Bure Valley Railway, the
North Norfolk Railway or the Wells & Walsingham Light
Railway in Norfolk for a budget-friendly day of fun.
Bressingham Gardens and Museum is well worth a visit
too. Ride its locomotives or steam gallopers into the
woodlands, wander around the gardens and discover the
Dad’s Army exhibition.
eastlife.co.uk 25

Where your
children make
big discoveries
Our Forest School lets them grow and explore in a woodland wonderland.
Come and see first hand what Duncombe has to offer, contact Lucy.Evans@duncombe-school.co.uk
duncombe-school.co.uk
facebook.com/duncombeschool

FORTHCOMING
OPEN MORNINGS
Saturday 9 February
Saturday 27 April
General Open Morning
General Open Morning
“A lovely place to study”
GOOD SCHOOLS GUIDE 2016
CAMBRIDGE’S ONLY BOARDING AND DAY
SCHOOL FOR GIRLS AND BOYS AGED 11 - 18
TO ATTEND AN OPEN MORNING OR ARRANGE A VISIT CONTACT
admissions@theleys.net www.theleys.net 01223 508904

Open Morning
Thursday, 14 March 2019
10.00am to 12.00pm
Headmaster’s introduction
at 10.15am
Full tour of the School
3+ 7+ 11+
For further information please
contact the Admissions Registrar.
registrar@staubyns.com
020 8504 1577
co-educational independent age 3 to 13 central line woodford
Bunces Lane, Woodford Green, Essex IG8 9DU
www.staubyns.com
Registered Charity No: 270143
So much to
discover
They might
need all day...
“Excellent”
In every category
-ISI Inspection
We are now introducing
7.30am-6pm wraparound
Book a tour today
01277 243 291 www.brentwoodschool.co.uk

Established in 1862, Haileybury is a top co-educational
boarding and day school for 11–18 year olds on a historic
500 acre campus in Hertfordshire, just 20 miles north of London.
11+ & 13+ Open Morning Saturday 16 March 2019
11+ Open Morning Wednesday 15 May 2019
16+ Open Evening Thursday 20 June 2019
Booking and additional dates: haileybury.com
Individual visits: admissions@haileybury.com 01992 706 353
HaileyburyUK

Creating a
New Life
at any
Age
Written by Cindy Galvin
More people than ever are delaying
retirement by leveraging the skills,
wisdom and experience they’ve gained
from decades of working to create new
businesses or job opportunities. You can
be one of them.
There’s never been a better time for people aged 50
and older who feel drawn to doing something different
for the rest of their working career to be successful in
achieving this. The traditional retirement age of 65 is
giving way as an increasingly large number of us are
working well into our 60s, 70s and 80s.
People still retire in their 60s, and even earlier if they
feel financially secure, and opt to do things like travel or
spend more time with family. But for those who want,
or need, to retain an income, the ability to continue
working later in life is important.
The employment rate for people aged 50 to 75 has
grown significantly, according to the UK’s Department
of Works and Pensions. Between 1985 and 2015 it rose
over 14% for people aged 50 to 64 and doubled for
those aged 65 and over.
A key factor in this phenomenon is the millions of baby
boomers born between 1946 and 1964 who are either
in retirement age or nearing it. Another is the freedom
and flexibility we have because of the internet and an
explosion of software innovation that allows us to connect
globally, issue invoices, take payments and work nearly
anywhere we want.
We are better educated and more focused on health
than any preceding generation, which means we are
living longer and are simply not ready to stop.There are
five steps I believe are crucial to achieving success later
in life. These form the basis of the Platform for Success
programme I developed after realising the lack of clear
direction available for people going through later in life
career transitions.
The first is clarity. You’re unlikely to achieve your goal
without having a clear vision. It’s like taking a road trip
without having a map. You’ll eventually get where you
want to go, but it will take longer than if you’d planned.
The second is confidence. As Henry Ford said: “If you
think you can, or you think you can’t, you’re right.” You
can have the best intentions in the world for what you
want to do, but you won’t achieve it if you’re hesitant.
Another is commitment. You need a system that ensures
you move forward toward your goal every day, however
minutely.
30 Download Our App Today!

The fourth step is companions, by which I mean network.
This is about identifying what skills you don’t have and
need, and developing a bespoke plan for adding to your
network those who do.
Finally, there’s contribution. We feel more fulfilled and
happier when giving back, so I always ask clients what
expertise, experience or time they can share with others
who need help.
Studies in the fields of neuroplasticity and neurogeneis
show that our brain continually rewires itself and creates
new neurons and neural connections throughout our life.
There’s no reason to slow down, if you don’t want to.
Focus on your health and mind and both will take care of
you as you move into the next chapter of your life.
Cindy Galvin is the author of ‘More to Give-Stepping into
your new life at any age’, published by Panoma Press in
September 2018. The lessons she learned while changing
her career, and the success she’s had working with other
high achievers to do the same, are highlighted in her
book. Cindy is an executive coach, advisor to private
equity firms, public speaker, hypnotherapist and licensed
Neuro-Linguistic Progamming Trainer.
www.cindygalvin.com
eastlife.co.uk 31

South Lee School
#allhavetalent
OPEN
MORNING
Saturday 9th February 2019
10am-12noon
BOOK YOUR
PLACE NOW
T: 01284 754654
E: o ffice@southlee.co.uk
| W: www.southlee.co.uk
We provide all children with a broad and balanced
curriculum which focuses on the development of
the whole child as an inquirer and learner.
Visit St. Michael’s
on our open mornings:
Friday, 2nd 1st March 10.30am – 12 noon
& Saturday, 3rd 2nd March 10.30a.m –– 12.30 p.m
198 Hadleigh Road Leigh-on-Sea
Essex SS9 2LP
01702 478719
admissions@stmichaelsschool.com
www.stmichaelsschool.com

GROW n ACHIEVE n INSPIRE
Because children learn best
where they’re happy
Prep School & Nursery | Senior School & Sixth Form
gosfieldschool.org.uk n registrar@gosfieldschool.org.uk

Discover who
you are...
We believe in our girls.
And they believe in
themselves.
Come and visit us
Thursday 7 March 2019,
4.30pm to 6.30pm
Friday 8 March 2019,
9.30am to 12noon
Or contact us to arrange
a personal tour on a date
to suit you.
Visit us to see what we mean
northamptonhigh.gdst.net
01604 765765
WHOLE SCHOOL
OPEN MORNING
(for pupils aged 3-18)
Saturday
23 March 2019
10:00 - 12.30
ST GEORGE’S SCHOOL
HARPENDEN
A non-denominational Christian day and boarding school
With dedicated bus routes across
Norfolk, Cambs and Lincs,
we’re closer than you think!
Contact us: 01945 586750
admissions@wisbechgrammar.com
wisbechgrammar.com
11-18 coeducational boarding at one of the
UK's top performing non-selective schools
for £4070 per term
Only 30 minutes from St Pancras International
Less than an hour by road from Heathrow, Stansted and Luton
Herts AL5 4TD | boarding@stgeorges.herts.sch.uk | 01582 716284
www.stgeorges.herts.sch.uk

Education
SchoolOPEN
DAYS
new year is a chance to view the region’s finest schools. Make the right choice for your
A child and stop by one of the upcoming open days…
ESSEX
St Aubyn’s School
Bunces Lane, Woodford, Woodford Green, IG8 9DU
Tel: 020 8504 1577
Open days: 14 March,10am. The Headmaster will talk at
10.15am
A co-educational, independent, preparatory school,
with around 500 pupils aged between 3-13.
www.staubyns.com
St Mary’s School for Girls
91 Lexden Road, Colchester, CO3 3RB
Tel: 01206 572544
Open days: Kindergarten and Lower School, 7 February,
9 & 27 March, 25 April and 5 June, 9.30-11am; Senior
School, 26 February, 10.30-12pm and 27 April,
10am-12pm.
A high achieving independent school for girls
aged 3-16 with a focus on building confidence and
academic achievement.
www.stmaryscolchester.org.uk
Brentwood School
Middleton Hall Lane, Brentwood, CM15 8EE
Tel: 01277 243243
Open day: Call to find out upcoming dates
An independent day and boarding school for boys
and girls aged 3-18.
www.brentwoodschool.co.uk
Gosfield School
Cut Hedge Park, Halstead Road, Gosfield, CO9 1PF
Tel: 01787 474040
Open day: 9 March
An independent, co-educational through school,
delivering a consistent and supportive learning
environment for children from 2-18 years old.
www.gosfieldschool.org.uk
St.Michael’s Church of England Preparatory School
198 Hadleigh Road, Leigh-on-Sea, SS9 2LP
Tel: 01702 478719
Open days: 1 March 10.30am – 12 noon & 2 March
10.30am – 12.30pm
A a non-selective school for children aged 3-11 years.
www.stmichaelsschool.com
eastlife.co.uk 35

CAMBRIDGESHIRE
Cambridge International School
Cherry Hinton Road, Cambridge, CB1 8DW
Tel: 01223 416938
Open days: Spring dates to be announced soon
The school provides an inspiring and exciting education
for children aged 3-18.
www.cambridgeinternationalschool.co.uk
The Leys School
Fen Causeway, Cambridge, CB2 7AD
Tel: 01223 508900
Open days: 9 February and 27 April.
A co-educational independent day and boarding school
for children aged 11-18.
www.theleys.net
Cambridge Regional College
Kings Hedges Road, Cambridge, CB4 2QT
Tel: 01223 418200
Open days: Huntingdon Campus; 7 February, 2 May and
15 June. Cambridge Campus; 9 February, 3 April and 13
June.
Highly-rated further education college with excellent fulltime
and part-time courses, apprenticeships and Higher
Education, and professional training for businesses.
www.camre.ac.uk
NORFOLK
Wymondham College
Wymondham, Norfolk, NR18 9SZ
Tel: 01953 609000
Open days: Boarder taster evenings, 22 March & 14 June,
5.45-8.30pm; Main School open mornings, 23 March & 15
June, 9-11am; Sixth Form mini open mornings, 9 February
and 29 June.
A school for students aged 11-18, boarders and day
pupils. www.wymondhamcollege.org
East Norfolk Sixth Form
Church Lane, Gorleston, Great Yarmouth,
NR31 7BQ
Tel: 01493 662234
Open days: Information Evening 5 March, 5-7pm.
The sixth form college welcomes 1,700 students to study
a curriculum with over 80 A Level and BTEC subjects at
Level 3 and Level 2.
www.eastnorfolk.ac.uk
Norwich High School for Girls
95 Newmarket Road, Norwich NR2 2HU
Tel: 01603 453265
Open day: Contact the Registrar to arrange a viewing.
The school offers an education which is about more
than exams, with sport, music, art, performance and
innovative enrichment opportunities, for girls aged
3-18. www.norwichhigh.gdst.net
SUFFOLK
Stoke College
Stoke by Clare, Sudbury, CO10 8JE
Tel: 01787 278141
Open days: 2019 dates to be announced soon. Prep
School open days are usually held on Friday mornings,
and Senior School and Sixth Form events on Saturday
mornings.
An independent day and boarding school with a focus
on strong academic progress, providing a breadth of
experience and opportunity to develop character and
help each child to discern their future.
www.stokecollege.co.uk
South Lee School
Nowton Road, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 2BT
Tel: 01284 754654
Open day: Call directly to meet the head and take a tour.
Independent Day School & Nursery for boys and girls
aged 2-13, offering a stimulating and caring environment
for your child.
www.southlee.co.uk
eastlife.co.uk 36

HERTFORDSHIRE
St Francis College
Broadway, Letchworth Garden City, SG6 3PJ
Tel: 01462 670511
Open days: Call to book a tour of the school
An all-girls school that provides an excellent education,
focusing on nurturing the individual talents of its pupils,
aged between 3-18 years old.
www.st-francis.herts.sch.uk
Kingshott School
Stevenage Road, St Ippolyts, Hitchin, SG4 7JX
Tel: 01462 432009
Open day: 3 May
A co-education day prep school for children aged 3-13,
providing tradition and innovation in teaching and
learning.
www.kingshottschool.com
Haileybury and Imperial Service College
Hertford, SG13 7NU
Tel: 01992 706200
Open days: 11+ & 13+ 16 March, 9.30am, 11+ 15 May,
9.30am and 16+ 20 June, 6pm
A co-educational boarding and day school for ages 11-18.
www.haileybury.com
St Christopher School, Letchworth
Barrington Road, Letchworth Garden City, SG6 3JZ
Tel: 01462 650850
Open day: 11 May, 9.30am-1pm.
An independent school for girls and boys aged 3–18.
www.stchris.co.uk
Duncombe School
4 Warren Park Road, Hertford, SG14 3JA
Tel: 01992 414100
Open days: 31 January, 7 March and 2 May,
9.45am-11am.
A private school with co-educational Preparatory and
Pre-Preparatory Schools, for pupils aged 2-11 years.
www.duncombe-school.co.uk
eastlife.co.uk 47

WELCOME TO
Camlet Way, Hadley Wood, Barnet, EN4 0NJ
A co-educational
school for
11 to 18 year olds
where academic success is achieved
along with excellent pastoral care
visit www.mounthouse.org.uk
to book a place at our
Open Morning on 27 April 2019.
Mount House School | Independent Boys & Girls Secondary School located in Monken Hadley
www.mounthouse.org.uk Tel: 020 8449 6889
INSPIRED TODAY, PREPARED FOR TOMORROW
OPEN MORNINGS:
1st February 2019
11th May 2019
CO-EDUCATIONAL BOARDING
AND DAY 2½ TO 13
TO FIND OUT MORE
PLEASE CONTACT
OUR ADMISSIONS TEAM ON
admissions@orwellpark.org
www.orwellpark.co.uk
T: 01473 653224

Health & Safety Training Courses in Chelmsford Essex
Train to be safe are a specialist training provider, offering
excellent service at competitive prices. We are an accredited
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instructors are experts in their subject matter offering a
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Fire Marshal
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First Aid
Training Courses
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Manual Handling
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This course is for people
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basic fire awareness for their
role as a fire marshal in the
workplace. It helps learners
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how to assess and manage
these risks in their workplace
Whether you need first
aid and health and safety
training for work or want
to learn first aid for your
everyday life, Train to be
Safe has a course for you.
It helps delegates to learn
first aid safety training for
the workplace to protect
colleagues, family, friends,
and members of the
community.
This course is designed
for people who care for
babies and children in
any professional setting,
including nannies,
child-minders, nursery
workers and au pairs.
Manual Handling training
courses provide an effective
means of ensuring that
the student is aware of
their responsibilities and
understand the principles
of the safe moving and load
lifting. Manual handling
accidents account for more
than one third of
all accidents reported
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TRAINING COURSE OPTIONS
Standalone Courses - Courses can be booked on an individual booking which
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Bulk Courses - We can offer a bulk booking of courses over a period of time
specified to you and tailor made to courses you require to offer.
Bespoke Courses - We will work with you to identify the best approach to
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We will happily review the style of delivery and content to accommodate this.
Workshops - If you do not require accreditation within training and wish to
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delivery into workshop styles at a discounted price.
Telephone: 01245 206320
Email: info@traintobesafe.co.uk
www.traintobesafe.co.uk

NORWICH HIGH
56%
SCHOOL FOR GIRLS
A*-A / 9-7
GCSEs 2018
OPEN
WEEK
MONDAY 4TH
TO FRIDAY 8TH
MARCH 2019
52%
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2018
Limited places for girls aged 3 to 16 to join
our outstanding Pre-Prep and Prep School,
Senior School or Sixth Form in September 2019
Flexible
mini-bus
service now
available
across
Norfolk
Visit www.norwichhigh.gdst.net, email
admissions@nor.gdst.net or call 01603 453 265
to book your personalised tour
@NorwichHigh

Passions
don’t retire.
It’s time to throw yourself into the things you love - at Park House in quintessential
Harpenden. Set around a leafy courtyard, the development offers a friendly, sociable
collection of homes bordering popular Rothamsted Park. Enjoy a delicious lunch at
the bustling kitchen-style restaurant on site, then catch up with friends at the Club
House or dive into a book in one of the four lounges. Your retirement, your lifestyle.
PRICES
start from
£560,000
Exclusively for the over 60s
To experience Park House call Michael or Diana on 01582 228 118
PegasusLife.co.uk/ParkHouse
23a Leyton Road, Harpenden, St Albans, AL5 2LW
Destinations Nationwide: London: Hampstead, Purley, Westminster
North: Wilmslow East: Harpenden, Sevenoaks West: Bath, Bristol, Cheltenham,
Portishead, Tetbury South: Brockenhurst, Falmouth, Poole, Seaford, Woking
Prices published correct at time of print.
Properties of character

COMING SOON - Doglife 2019
Your essential guide to the dog friendly
services of the East of England.
• Dog friendly hotels, cottages, campsites • Where to eat and drink
• Shopping for and with your pooch • Dog friendly events/ dog shows
• Dog friendly walks/ beaches
Email enquiries@eastlife.co.uk to advertise or to pre-order your copy!
DogLife
eastlife.co.uk/dog-friendly/

Dog
friendly
Tails about town
Written by Emma Kemsley
Doggy First Aid
It’s official, I’m a crazy dog lady. Last month my
friend and I attended a day course at the Royal
Veterinary College in Camden to learn the skills
to help save our pups lives. After last winter’s
cut paw dramas I wasn’t taking any chances so
I spent my Saturday being taught how to wrap
bandages, treat traumas and look for signs that
Fletcher may be feeling under the weather.
We also learnt which foods are highly toxic and what we
should do if they are consumed. My friend’s dog, Juno,
had pretty much eaten everything on the list so she was
well equipped to know it ends in a pretty big vet bill! We
also practiced giving CPR on a toy dog - close the mouth
and breathe into the dog’s nose. I would have covered
the mouth so at least that’s saved me a gross encounter.
The first aid training got me thinking, it’s all well and good
that I’m spending my time and money to help Fletcher
but what about me? Over the years I have sustained
countless injuries caused by Fletcher. There was the time
he got over excited about seeing another dog, wrapped
the extender lead cord around my legs and pulled hard.
It resulted in a bleeding rope burn across the back of my
left leg – I have a permanent scar!
I have grazed my entire hand because he was too
impatient for me to put on my wellies and dragged me
across the stony driveway. I’ve bruised my coccyx on
multiple occasions after slipping over on icy walks. I’ve
twisted ankles in many rabbit holes. I get muddy sticks
bashed into my legs at lightning speed on a daily basis.
I’ve caught fingers in doors and lead catches. I’ve had
splinters trying to get sticks from him. I’ve trod on endless
sharp bones. And have you ever accidently butted heads
with a dog? Trust me, their skulls are hard enough to
make you see stars!
There was also the occasion he went on a deer chase,
causing my husband to trip over in a forest and badly
sprain an ankle – it was an ice pack and foot up kind of
scenario. While he hobbled through the forest in the
pouring rain, I frantically ran around crying thinking we’d
lost Fletcher forever.
Add to all this the general embarrassment and stress he
causes unknowingly thanks to his cheeky cocker character
and I’m starting to think it’s me that needs saving!
However, would I have it any other way? Absolutely not!
Read more Tails About Town at
www.eastlife.co.uk/dog-friendly
eastlife.co.uk 43

Ask Wood Green
anything about
owning a pet
We offer free pet advice
We can help you:
find your perfect pet
understand how best to care for your pet
improve behaviour and your relationship with your pet.
Call 0300 303 9333 or visit woodgreen.org.uk
#askwoodgreen
Wood Green – bringing pets
and people closer together
Wood Green, The Animals Charity, Registered Charity No. 298348 00396JJ1118
00396 Ask Wood Green dog 148x107 Eastlife magazine.indd 1 21/11/2018 13:48
Dog Friendly Caravans,
Lodges and Cottages for Hire
15% discount
15% discount
Quote ‘dog15’
when booking
Quote
to get
‘dog15’
our best price
when booking to get our best price
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Book online at www.2cHolidays.co.uk
or call Book us on online 01362 at 470888 www.2cHolidays.co.uk
or 07825 146660
or call us on 01362 470888 or 07825 146660
01362 470888 - 07825 146660
www.2cHolidays.co.uk

Fitness with Fido
Written by
Karen Rhodes
Start the New Year with a new regime that will
benefit you and your dog.
If like many of us, your New Year’s resolution is to get fit,
what better way to work off the excesses from Christmas
with the help of your furry four-legged friend?
Increase your walking time
Most of us own a fitness tracker or have an app that tracks
our steps. The easiest way to get fit with Fido is to simply
walk further. Set yourself a challenge and increase the
distance you walk each day and smash your targets.
Agility
This fun fast paced activity will not only exercise your dog
physically but mentally too. Learning the obstacles and the
techniques is a great way to spend an hour on a weekend;
you’ll get a great workout too running around with your
dog as you both take part.
Running
Running is a fantastic way to exercise your dog and it’s free!
You can build up from walking to running short distances,
and gradually increasing the length of time you can run for.
You’ll soon be fit enough to run all the way with your dog.
Kayaking or stand up paddle boarding
Let your dog relax while you do all the work. Take your dog
kayaking or for a ride on a stand up paddle board.
You’ll get amazing abs and arm workout and your dog will
enjoy something different. Make sure you both wear life
jackets though.
Heelwork to music
Why not try something slightly less energetic for the
owner but still super fun. Teach your dog to dance and
do heelwork to music at one of the many classes on offer
in the region. Not only will you be working out your mind
learning the choreography but your dog’s mind too.
Obstacle course challenge
For the super competitive, sign up for an obstacle course
challenge. Designed specifically for dogs and their owners,
challenge your abilities and teamwork as you take on
various obstacles at each station.
More activities that you can do with your dog can be found
on the Kennel Club website at
www.thekennelclub.org.uk/activities
As chosen by Dragons Den Star and entrepreneur
Theo Paphitis, Karen Rhodes is the owner of awardwinning
Suffolk Dog Services. She provides rural
adventure walks specialising in high energy working dog
breeds. Taking them away from their usual surroundings
and treating them to amazing experiences.
www.suffolkdogservices.co.uk | Facebook: /suffolkdogservices
eastlife.co.uk 45

In the darkest and most
painful of times,
EACH has been
our lifeline.
Rob Dodsworth
Photography
Your legacy can help EACH be there for future generations,
helping every child make the most of life – no matter how short.
To receive your information pack call 01223 800807
or email supportercare@each.org.uk
www.each.org.uk • Registered charity number:1069284
a1135 EACH Legacy Ad 107mmH x 148mmW.indd 1 26/07/2018 14:30
January Sale
NOW ON
free parking *
Cambridge Park & Ride –
Taking you into the heart of Cambridge
Open seven days a week
Buses depart every 10 minutes (Mon-Sat) until 6.30pm and every 20
minutes after
Every 15 minutes (9am – 6pm) Sundays and public holidays
Tickets: Park & Ride Return, £3 and with this ticket up to three children
travel for free
Park & Ride Group Ticket, £8.50 (purchased from driver), allows a group
of up to 5 people to travel together.
Park & Ride Weekly Ticket, £14 and valid for 7 days
Contactless payments are now accepted on all Park & Ride services
Concessionary pass holders travel for free with their passes after 9.30am
Monday to Friday, and all day at the weekend and on bank holidays.
*Parking is free for up to 18 hours. Charges apply for longer stays, see
www.cambridgeparkandride.info for more
Design led furniture and accessories
for the home and garden
Further information: www.cambridgeparkandride.info
36 - 38 Station Road, Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 2SS
01787 312126 www.aglifestyle.co.uk
Open Monday to Saturday 9.30 AM - 5.00 PM

MUM’s
The Word
Written by
Dolly Osborne
Little East
A Hopeful
New Year
I
’m not usually a fan of New Year, as any readers
of my column might know, but I will be seeing
2019 in with an unusual amount of gusto.
You see, 2018 has been the Osborne family’s annus
horribilis; we’ve had to deal with a lot this year, the crux of
which has been having to watch my 10-year-old boy suffer
and in the most part being unable to fix it.
I thought I’d been through everything that motherhood
had to throw at me, with two teenage stepdaughters and
a boisterous 10-year-old, I kind of thought by now I had a
gentle run-in to the years of grandparenthood in 15 or 20
years’ time. I felt entirely unequipped when faced with my
boy having a pain that I couldn’t just take away.
I’m an ex nurse, an intolerable empath, a Taurean and so
am programmed to need to fix things, to fix people, to take
problems away. I think many of us as parents see that as our
role: to keep our child safe from harm and to fix any harm
that does befall them. To be faced with something that we
can’t take away, that we can’t fix makes us feel redundant.
I’ve spent lots of the last 12 months battling with that
frustration, feeling that I had failed at motherhood by
allowing something I couldn’t control to hurt my child but
then I realised I was wasting energy by obsessing over what
I couldn’t do when I could spend time thinking about the
ways I could help.
As parents we do want to keep our children safe but we
also need to accept that if we can’t do that then it falls to
us to take on a different role; we need to build our children
up, give them tools to cope with the big bad world. We
have a responsibility to teach our children how to recognise
anxieties, how to process pain and sadness, how important
it is to talk to the people we love about fears and feelings
and how even if a battle is theirs to endure that they must
never feel that they have to fight it alone.
I am welcoming in the New Year as it brings me hope,
not only that our current crisis will pass but also that I still
have many new things to learn about motherhood, that
I will continue to learn these lessons and to help future
generations to be equipped to deal with whatever the years
to come may bring.
Read more from Dolly at www.raggydollywrites.wordpress.com
or follow her on Twitter @Osborneosaurus
eastlife.co.uk 47

Wentworth EastLife quarter page.qxp_Layout 1 21/06/2018 10:
A great place to meet friends,
host a party or just pop in for
Coffee & Cake
The Hotel for all seasons
Using as much locally sourced produce as possible, the aim of the
team at the Picnic is to provide customers with a relaxed dining
experience; Our Table service offers advice when making choices
from our daily changing Picnic counter.
Or why not opt for the more traditional Brunch style dishes which
are cooked to order, inc gluten free & vegetarian options. Coffee
& cake are a real must when visiting the Picnic, our daily cake
selection reflects our team. Never dull, fun & unusual, you never
quite know what the flavour’s will be today.
Brick Yard Ban, Norwich Road, Hedenham, Bungay NR35 2DE
01508 483947
EVERY DAY’SA
CAFE &
Email: everydayapicnic@gmail.com Tel: 01508 483947
BARN SHOP
everydayapicnic@gmail.com
Find us on Facebook
£20.19
£19
FOR TWO COURSES
at TheWentworth
2 COURSE DINNER
at the Wentworth, Aldeburgh
Dining out at the Wentworth can be exceptional value when
you take advantage of our Special £20.19 offer.
Enjoy two courses (from our three course fixed price menu)
in the relaxing restaurant for just £20.19.
Free wine – If your party is of four or more diners we’ll include a
complimentary bottle of delicious House wine and if there are eight
or more of you we’ll include two complimentary bottles of House
wine for you to enjoy at the table.
Offer available 6.30pm – 9pm, Monday to Friday evenings inclusive.
To book your table please call 01728 452312 quoting 2019 ‘£19 offer’.
- only available for tables up to 10 people, exclusions apply.
www.wentworth-aldeburgh.com
wentworth-aldeburgh.com

Food
& Drink news
Food & Drink
Shake, Sprinkle and Snack Your Way to Good
Health
If you’re on a health kick this month, it’s now easier than
ever to pep up your soups, salads or breakfast with a
sprinkle of Munchy Seeds.
Created in Leiston, Suffolk, the seeds are 100% natural,
gluten free and bursting with protein and fibre, making
Munchy Seeds a fantastic source of energy, nutrients
and vitamins to help keep you
fighting fit throughout the
winter.
Munchy Seeds are available in
three flavours; spicy Chilli Bites,
savoury Omega Sprinkles or
sweet Honey Seeds, all available
at Tesco and Sainsbury’s stores
nationwide, priced £2.50.
Atalian Servest opens its first pub in
Lavenham
Last month, Atalian Servest opened the doors to the
Cock Horse, on Church Street in Lavenham, its first pub
in the area.
The company, whose head office is in Bury St Edmunds,
has established a global reputation across a number of
sectors including catering and has bought its experience
to the Cock Horse following a renovation and new guest
chefs supporting head chef Chris Ince.
Daniel Dickson, CEO of Atalian Servest, said: “We want
the Cock Horse to become known for good homemade
food, with new healthy alternatives, combining both
quality and affordability.” www.thecockhorseinn.co.uk
Oakman Inns nominated for Four National
Awards
Independent pub group, Oakman Inns, the owners of five
popular family-friendly pubs in Hertfordshire (Kings Arms,
Berkhamsted, Banyers House, Royston, Beech House, St
Albans, Red Lion, Water End and The Akeman, Tring) has
been nominated for four awards at the Publican Awards,
the largest celebration of the UK pub industry’s work.
Oakman Inns has been nominated for: The Best Managed
Pub Company (2-50 sites), The Pub Employer (501+
employees), The Best Sustainable Pub Company Award
and The Best New Pub/Bar category for The Royal
Foresters in Ascot, Berkshire. Oakman Inns was the first
multiple site pub group to ban plastic straws over two
years ago, and last year committed to cutting Single Use
Plastics throughout its business by 2019. The ceremony
will take place in March 2019 at Battersea Evolution in
London. www.oakmaninns.co.uk
Gin Tasting in Cambridge
If the idea of a dry January is a distant memory, book
yourself a place at Cambridgeshire Wine School’s first
gin tasting of the year. Taking place on 24 January,
7-9pm, you’ll try six different gins with Fever Tree tonic
and learn all about the best garnishes to choose. It’s a
fun evening for any gin lover! Tickets are priced £30.
www.cambridgeshirewineschool.com
eastlife.co.uk 49

Rooted in rural Cambridgeshire
Visit the distillery
Gin Discovery
Sessions
Book now
Distilled with elderberries
www.roundwooddistillery.co.uk | 01487 829149

Cambridge
The
Foodie
Gerla de Boer, founder
of the Cambridge Food Tour,
(www.cambridgefoodtour.com) shares her
wisdom of the city’s cuisine…
From Gin to muscle food - bugs are the new
hot thing!
One of the most fun parts of my work is
finding new and exciting food and drink
and sampling it. This not only involves looking
out for new places opening in Cambridge but
food trends too as I am keen to share the latest
food and drink with our guests on our food
tours.
One of these ‘new’ foods has now finally arrived in
Cambridge. This superfood is tasty, nutritious, sustainable
and packed with protein. I have been talking about these
creepy crawlies on our food walking tours for quite a few
years. And the reason for this is? The Anty Gin, a joint
venture between the experimental Copenhagen-based
Nordic Food Lab and the Cambridge Distillery.
One of the essential ingredients of the Anty Gin is
Formica rufa, a redwood ant found in forests around the
Northern Hemisphere and also in Kent. Supported by
other botanicals this Gin has a lemony flavour. Apparently,
depending on which part of the world you are in, the
formic acid of woodland ants taste has a lemon or orange
flavour. No, I haven’t been going around the globe trying
out all these ants! You’ll be amazed how many of our
guests have eaten insects. Either part of their military
training, culture or out of curiosity.
Many people are horrified by the thought of eating
edible bugs. We all can agree, that quite a few of them
look pretty scary. But what about prawns? They are very
popular and look just as creepy as edible bugs. Did you
know that the pink prawns from Asia were only introduced
into our Western society in the 70s so that is not that long
ago and these are considered to be a delicacy? In some
countries in South America it is more common to eat
insects than meat and they consider us to be odd. To be
fair, it is just what you are used to.
I have always wondered how long it would take before
edible bugs were going to be sold in Cambridge. The
time has arrived! The other day I attended a Japanese
insect and wine tasting at the Cambridge Wine Merchants.
Everybody thought that they were very tasty, but the
silk moth did not get the best votes. It certainly has an
acquired flavour, a bit musty. Like Marmite; you either love
it or hate it.
At the time of writing this article, Sainsbury’s announced
they will start selling edible bugs in their stores. I wonder
how many more will follow. Many people are looking at
alternatives for meat and fish so will the choice be
plant-based or this protein-packed alternative instead?
Anty Gin - Cambridge Distillery
www.cambridgedistillery.co.uk
Cambridge Wine Merchants
www.cambridgewine.com
Grub Kitchen (not local – this one is in Pembrokeshire)
www.grubkitchen.co.uk
eastlife.co.uk 51

Advertorial
Shorter days, cold temperatures
and the hectic festive season can
sometimes feel overwhelming, stressful
and less than cheery! Located in
Ampthill, akarmalife studios’ resident
Counsellor, Julie Anne Game, shares her
top 5 tips to stay on top of the season.
1. Make some ‘Me-Time’
We find ourselves saying, ‘I would love to do that....
but I just don’t have time’. The key to lowering your
stress levels, is to make time. And that might mean saying
no and prioritising your commitments. Taking time out to
do something you enjoy can lead to a greater sense of
wellbeing. If you feel good, you spend less time resenting
the feeling of ‘you don’t have time’ and spend more time
enjoying the moment! Increased wellbeing can improve
our productivity too, making the ‘me-time’
more achievable.
2. Mindfulness and Meditation
Have you tried mindfulness meditation? I could never
imagine myself meditating... until I
tried it. I found that just practising
for 10 minutes a day significantly
improved my mood, stress levels
and ability to live in the moment.
With a lot of backing research,
mindfulness and meditation are
now even recognised by the NHS as
being an effective way of improving
your mental wellbeing.
3. Walking in the woods
The benefits of walking in the
woods are worth braving the
cold. Research found that being out in the woods has
a powerful effect on our wellbeing. It is particularly
beneficial for reducing stress as it lowers the stress
hormone, cortisol. The Japanese practice of ‘forestbathing’,
spending time in the forest being mindful of
your surroundings, is gaining popularity in the UK. It’s an
activity you can enjoy with the kids, friends or your canine
companion.
Ampthill has
several woods
close by that I
regularly visit
for my dose of
serenity when
life gets hectic.
4. The power of touch
We humans are a social bunch,
dependant on each other
for survival. It’s no wonder
then that we’ve developed
to respond positively to the
physical touch of people we
are close to. Hugging a friend
or family member releases
oxytocin, the ‘feel-good’
hormone that lowers heart
rate and cortisol. It’s also the
hormone that bonds a new
baby and mother. And you can benefit from this by having
a massage too, which is shown in research to increase
oxytocin and lower stress levels.
Top 5
Tips for
De-Stressing
this Season
5. Counselling
I am a massive advocate for counselling and the impact
it can have on reducing stress. Counselling helps identify
the main triggers for stress and helps you find a way of rebalancing
your life, in a way that brings fulfilment, instead
of feeling overwhelmed and anxious. Instead of reverting
to potentially harmful coping mechanisms like excessive
alcohol consumption or over-eating, counselling helps
identify positive coping mechanisms that fit with your life.
Julie offers one on one counselling at akarmalife studios
in Ampthill. To find out more about how counselling could
work for you visit www.julieannegamecounselling.com.

Vegan Food on the GO!
Whether you’re a committed
vegan, taking part in
Veganuary or perhaps fancy
trying something new, it’s never
been easier to enjoy vegan food
on the go. When hunger calls
make a pit stop at one of these
vegan food trucks which are
parking up in a town near you…
The Wandering Yak
Where: Cambridge foodPark; Uni West
Cam, Science Park and Rail Station
A favourite on Cambridge’s street food
scene, taking inspiration and flavours
from the Middle East, here vegan food
has never tasted so good! Try their
famous mix & match Mezze Box, Middle-
Eastern pittas or Yak Salad Box.
www.wanderingyak.co.uk
Namaste Hut
Where: Enterprise Centre, Norwich,
NR4 7TL
A little piece of India has landed in
Norwich! Last year Namaste Hut opened
at the Enterprise Centre on the University
of East Anglia (UEA) campus. Stop by and
try delicious vegetarian, vegan and gluten
free curries and other Indian dishes. Trust
us, you’ll never eat a meat curry again
once you’ve sampled this!
www.namastehutcafe.com
TFI Vegan
Where: Colchester, Ipswich & Leiston –
plus other locations throughout the year
From the owners of vegan café, The Den
at 23 in Colchester, comes TFI Vegan.
Using ‘old rusty’ the burger van, the
company pops up at Essex and Suffolk
markets to serve mouth-watering vegan
burgers. You won’t find a burger better
than this! www.facebook.com/tfivegan
Vette’s Veggie Van
Where: Norwich
The family run business specialises in
vegan, veggie and gluten free food,
serving up tasty burgers, patties,
curries and brownies at Norfolk events
throughout the year.
www.vettesveggievan.co.uk
eastlife.co.uk 53

Time to get Cosy
Is there anything better than wrapping up warm
and going for a long walk before snuggling up
in front of the fire at a cosy pub? Throw in some
tasty food and it sounds like a perfect Sunday
afternoon to us. If you find yourself out and
about this month and in need of somewhere to
escape the cold, put one of these pubs on your
list to visit…
Norfolk
The Gunton Arms
Cromer Road, Thorpe Market, Norwich, NR11 8TZ
Take a brisk walk along Cromer beach then hop in the car
and make your way down the winding country roads to
The Gunton Arms. Perhaps one of Norfolk’s most famous
establishments, its deer park location, quirky art, roaring
fires and locally sourced food cooked on an open fire in
the Elk Room, makes this a popular choice for residents
and tourists alike. www.theguntonarms.co.uk
The Wiveton Bell
Blakeney Road, Holt, NR25 7TL
The pub boasts several awards for its food including the
Michelin Eating Out in Pubs awards, so you are sure to
enjoy a fantastic meal. Pop in after a bracing walk along
the salt marshes of North Norfolk, which has been listed
as a site of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Bring along your
four-legged friends too to warm up in this cosy traditional
style pub. Have a little too much wine? Don’t worry, this
pub also comes with stunning accommodation, making an
overnight stay a real delight. www.wivetonbell.co.uk
Suffolk
The Ferry Boat Inn
The Ferry, Felixstowe, IP11 9RZ
Following a walk along the coast or through the local
countryside, warm up at the cosy bar, relax by the
roaring fire and enjoy food and drink in this beautiful old
fashioned pub.
www.ferryboatinn.org.uk
The Unruly Pig
Orford Road, Bromeswell, Woodbridge, IP12 2PU
If refuelling after a long walk is what you require, book a
table at this stylish country pub just outside Woodbridge.
The 16th century inn features log burners, oak beams
and an impressive menu! There’s certainly no shortage
of nearby walks, the pub is located a short distance from
the River Deben in Woodbridge, Rendlesham Forest and
Sutton Hoo.
www.theunrulypig.co.uk
Cambridgeshire
The Crown Inn
8 Duck Street, Elton, Peterborough, PE8 6RQ
Set in a beautiful idyllic Wolds village, settle into ‘the
snug’ by the big log fire on a wintery night and tuck into
delicious homemade food. It’s a dog friendly bar, so your
four-legged friends are welcome to join you to warm up
after a walk in the countryside.
www.thecrowninn.org
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The Boot
1 High Street, Histon, Cambridge, CB24 9LG
Last year the pub was taken over by celebrity
chef Raymond Blanc’s, The White Brasserie
Company, and given a new lease of life with
country style décor. It’s perfect if you’re
looking to escape the crowds and traffic of
the city. Here you can get comfy in one of the many cosy
corners with a drink or tuck into a delicious meal – you’ll
be pleasantly surprised by the creativity of the menu.
www.boothiston.com
Essex
The Crown & Thistle
High Street, Great Chesterford, Saffron Walden,
CB10 1PL
A favourite with locals and visitors, The Crown & Thistle
is a traditional country pub with a stylish touch. Gather
around the bar for a drink, where dogs are also welcome,
or book yourself a table in the restaurant for a tasty Thai
feast. www.thecrownandthistle.pub
The Square and Compasses
Fuller Street, Fairstead, Chelmsford, CM3 2BB
Enjoy a taste of the 17th century in this traditional country
pub. With a rustic interior, enjoy a lovely locally sourced
meal in an old-worldly setting.
www.thesquareandcompasses.co.uk
The Boot, Histon
Hertfordshire
The Cowper Arms
57 Cole Green Lane, Hertford, SG14 2NL
The pub has recently undergone a makeover. Surrounded
by beautiful Hertfordshire countryside, spend the
morning walking along the nearby footpaths, before
returning for lunch. The bar area is cosy, there’s seating
near the open fire place and the food is delicious. They
welcome dogs too, and even have their own doggy
biscuit bar!
www.thecowperarmscolegreen.co.uk
The Alford Arms
Frithsden, Hemel Hempstead, HP1 3DD
The pub is nestled in the wooded valley of the Ashridge
Forest Estate, so a perfect stop after a long fresh winter
walk…especially with their policy of dogs, children and
muddy boots welcome. Antique artwork, wooden tables
and chairs decorate the pub and an open fire warms the
cockles on a cold day. www.alfordarmsfrithsden.co.uk
eastlife.co.uk 55

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Movement and Mind for Modern Living
A dedicated practice and
therapy space in the heart
of historic Ampthill.
Open seven days a week.
Classes, workshops and
introduction courses:
Yoga, Pilates, Meditation, Tai Chi,
Functional Movement & Rehab
Mind Body Therapies:
• Massage & Soft Tissue Therapies
• Stress, Tension & Trauma Release
• Counselling & Life Coaching
4A Church Street, Ampthill, Bedfordshire, MK45 2EH
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INDEPENDENT DIA B E TES TRUST
DIABETES - HERE TO HELP
I N D E P E N D E N T D I A B E T E S T R U S T
These booklets provide you with help
and advice about everyday aspects of
living with diabetes
ASK FOR YOUR FREE
COPIES TODAY
Type 1 Diabetes
Know the Facts
A charity supporting and listening to people who live with diabetes
HELPLINE: 01604 622837
www.iddtinternational.org
I N D E P E N
I N D E P E N D E N T D I A B E T E S T R U S T
I N D E P E N D E N T D I A B E T E S T R U S T
Diabetes
Everyday Eating
“I want to be told what I can eat – not what I can’t”.
This booklet provides you with help and advice
about everyday eating and a four week menu plan.
HELPLINE: 01604 622837
Email: enquiries@iddtinternational.org
www.iddtinternational.org
martin@iddtinternational.org
Understanding
Type 2 Diabetes
Management and Medication
Your Diabetes
HELPLINE: 01604 622837
www.iddtinternational.org
A charity supporting and listening to people who live with diabetes
HELPLINE: 01604 622837
www.iddtinternational.org
TELEPHONE: 01604 622837 or
EMAIL: martin@iddtinternational.org
InDependent Diabetes Trust
P O Box 294, Northampton NN1 4XS.
www.iddtinternational.org
Charity Number: 1058284
Registered Number: 3148360

NEW YEAR
New You:
HOW TO MAINTAIN
THAT HEALTH KICK
Written by Tessa Beecroft
The New Year is a particularly busy time for the
fitness industry. People feel inspired to make
some healthier changes and what better time to
start, than when you’re making those New Year
resolutions. However, how many of you have
made that resolution this year, but also the year
before and the year before that….? Although the
intention may be there, the motivation to make
those changes may fade quickly. So how do you
maintain the health kick?
Be prepared for the long-ride
The first and most important thing to do is to set aside the
notion that you will become a healthier person overnight.
The media will be filled with crash diets, 12-week, 6-week
or even 4-week exercise plans and no end of herbs,
supplements or potions that claim to help you lose weight
and get healthier. Don’t get caught up in the hype. The
first key step towards success, is understanding that
you will be committing to a journey. You will need to be
prepared to invest time (and perhaps also money in some
circumstances), to make truly sustainable changes to your
lifestyle. I sometimes ask my clients who want to make a
change: “how long have you felt that way?” or “how long
have you wanted to make those changes for?” The answer
is usually months or years. If it has taken that long to create
those unhealthy lifestyle habits, why do we expect it will
only take weeks to create new ones? If you want to make
your resolution stick, then don’t buy into short-term fixes.
58 Download Our App Today!

Goal-setting
So, you’ve made your New Year’s
resolution, you’re prepared to start
the journey but now what? What’s the
next step? Get some clear goals in
your mind around what it is you want
to achieve and make it specific. It’s
not enough just to say you want to
be healthier. If you don’t know what
you want to achieve, how can you
work towards it? Do you want to lose
weight, if so, how much? Do you want
to improve your fitness, then in what
sense – cardio, strength or stamina?
Maybe you’ll even stop smoking. Do
you want to improve your diet? Will
you do that by reducing your alcohol or
sugar consumption? Be clear on what
it is you want to achieve, so it will give
you focus and something measurable
to work towards.
Don’t be afraid to ask for help
and think outside the box
Now your goal is set, consider your options for achieving
that. Are you confident that you will achieve those goals
on your own or do you need professional advice and
guidance? This is where some people will fail to maintain
their resolution. You may be motivated at the start of the
year but as that motivation starts to fade, do you have
the drive to keep going or will you need someone to
give you that extra push? Don’t be afraid to ask for help.
That might be in the form of a personal trainer, dietician,
therapist or health professional. Don’t feel pressured into
thinking you have to do things on your own. It’s our job
to provide advice and guidance, so why not take
advantage of that?
Additionally, joining the gym isn’t your only option to
get fit and healthy. There are freelance personal trainers,
fitness classes, community groups, parkruns, sports clubs,
workshops and more...think outside the box!
Health
Be prepared for challenges
Working towards a healthy lifestyle is not going to be
easy. If you really want to make those healthy habits
long-term, it requires effort and more often than not there
will be hiccups along the way. I haven’t worked with a
client yet, who hasn’t encountered an occasional speed
bump. So don’t be harsh on yourself if you do reach a
challenge. The worst thing you can do is self-criticise. Take
the opportunity to reflect. Once you’ve given some time
to understand what may have caused that hiccup, think
about what you will do to keep working towards your
goal. Don’t give up at that first hurdle.
Wellbeing
Finally, bear in mind that being healthy doesn’t just mean
being physically fit, eating well, drinking less or stopping
smoking. It also includes healthy mental wellbeing. Losing
weight may help you with your self-confidence or improve
your self-esteem but don’t ignore other reasons which
may be causing you to feel that way. It’s important to take
time to work on our mental wellbeing, just as much as our
physical health. You may work extremely hard to achieve
a physical target but if you are still experiencing feelings
of anxiety or depression at the end of it, have you really
achieved your overall goal?
If you would like further advice or want
to learn more about the healthy lifestyle
coaching and personal training services I
offer, please contact me at
tbeecroft.fitpro@hotmail.com
www.personaltrainer-norfolk.co.uk
Facebook @tessafitpro
Instagram @tessa_fitpro
eastlife.co.uk 59

Call us today on
01603 764567 for a
free brochure
Your Holiday, Your Way.
A trip to Malta, a cruise to the Northern
Lights, a lifelong wish to visit Rome, wanting
to feel the sun in the Canary Islands and a
trip to Las Vegas with friends. Typical
holiday destinations for many people but for
five people these were holidays that once
upon a time, they felt they would be unable
to give thought to as the practical restraints
would prevent them travelling to such
faraway places.
A young person with a disability, a gentleman
in midlife with a health problem and three
older people were supported, enabling them
to take these desired trips because they had
with them one of our Holiday Care
Companions. Supported from the time they
left their home and returned safely after their
chosen holiday had ended.
Taking the opportunity to be
accompanied on a holiday means that
other places can be accessed, other dreams
fulfilled. As a result, second and third
holidays have been booked for later this
year and in 2019. Other people have
chosen other destinations both in the UK
and internationally.
Able Community Care
Supporting people at home
and away since 1980
www.ablecommunitycare.com
info@ablecommunitycare.com

A new you, a new life!
Let’s talk weight loss surgery.
Losing weight is an individual challenge different for every person. Because
no two bodies are alike, no two people receive the same treatment from
our team of experts. Instead, they work closely with you to develop a plan
tailored to your health and weight loss needs.
We are here to answer any questions you have about weight loss surgery.
We listen to you and guide you through every part of the treatment.
Thursday 17th January, 6.30pm
With Mr Sanjay Agrawal, Consultant General Surgeon,
(specialising in Bariatric Surgery).
Considering an operation is a big decision. It often seems like a giant step.
However, one step could lead to a better quality of life for you and your family.
Come and meet our expert at this FREE event.
You will have the opportunity to get your questions answered.
It is together that we will help you lose weight.
Book online today at
www.nuffieldhealth.com/hospitals/brentwood/events
or call 01277 886 706
Nuffield Health,
Brentwood Hospital
Shenfield Road, Brentwood,
CM15 8EH

DIY Doctor
Written by Mike Garside
Struggling to get an appointment with
your GP? Why not try a home test? Mike
Garside, medical director at Valuemed,
a medical supply company, shares his
knowledge of self test kits…
It’s amazing what you can buy on the internet these days,
but despite Google’s, Amazon’s and Ebay’s best efforts
to provide a myriad of shopping opportunities and
options to all and everyone looking, if you don’t ask the
right questions, chances are you won’t know most of the
possibilities on offer to you in the UK.
Now before you all get uppity, no one is suggesting
these replace the good old NHS services we all love
and cherish, just that when you’re told the next routine
appointment is sometime past Easter, and you have
to ask what year, these home test kits may offer an
affordable, and convenient first screening option, that will
either put your mind at ease, or arm you with the “yes it is
an emergency” ammunition to get you past the dragon’s
school of doctor’s receptionist blocking tactics.
Now doctors have traditionally been terribly defensive
about patients testing themselves. This is partly protective
and partly pompous. Most also hate you Googling your
own symptoms and would gladly see the internet go
down for long periods, that is when they are not, “just
nipping out to consult a colleague”, which is code for
Googling your symptoms on their mobile out of sight.
I’m old enough to remember the professional concern
about the first home pregnancy tests. Could ladies
withstand the emotional stress and excitement of peeing
on the right end of the test kit, and then interpreting the
62 Download Our App Today!

inflammatory bowel conditions such as Ulcerative Colitis
and Crohn’s disease. Healthy guts should not leak blood,
so a positive result is always an indication for further
investigation. This simple test on a stool sample is used
widely where colonoscopy is not available or offered.
Priced £4.75.
result? Would they trust the result? Would their heads
simply explode from the immense responsibility? It was all
complete rubbish of course (unless you’re French, they’re
still not trusted to buy one without counselling from a
pharmacist).
So let’s talk specifically about the recent developments in
what is officially called “point of care” biotechnology. To
you and me that’s posh for self-test kits and it’s amazing
what is on offer to do in your own home these days. Oh,
and before you go “but they’re not as accurate as the
proper tests”, here’s the rub, we’re selling an awful lot
of them in big packs to NHS labs where they put your
samples in for you, and generate a result, print it or ping
it, back to your doctor…(sometime after Easter if you’ve
manoeuvred that receptionist!).
Cholesterol Screening
Increasingly total cholesterol is used for assessing risk for
coronary artery disease (include here heart attack, stroke
and vascular disease). There’s a meter for this. It’s just like
a diabetic glucose meter, in fact it also has this function,
and takes 3 types of blood test strips including total
cholesterol. The meter costs around £40 and comes with
a few sample test strips. You have to perform finger pricks
to get small blood samples for each test strip, but it allows
you to monitor the fasting total cholesterol over a period
of time for a cost of around £1.60 per test.
Uric Acid Screening (Gout)
The same meter takes uric acid test strips and allows
screening for uric acid levels associated with gout. £0.75
per test. Find out more about cholesterol, and gout
meters at www.valuemed.co.uk/collections/cholesterolhaemoglobin-uric-acid-meters
FOB Faecal Occult Blood Screening (FOB for short)
Microscopic blood loss into the gut is used as a market
for a range of bowel diseases, notably polyps and
tumours, but the marker is non-specific and also occurs on
H Pylori Antigen Screening
Chronic indigestion, reflux and upper GI symptoms may
be treated better if H Pylori infection is identified. This
one’s a little controversial as H Pylori exists in a lot of
apparently healthy stomachs, but it’s also found in an
awful lot of ulcers, so currently the thinking is to screen
and eradicate if symptomatic. This test works on stool
samples and only identifies cell wall protein excreted from
currently active bugs (older tests detect antibodies, which
linger for years after eradication). Priced £6.99.
Thyroid TSH Screening
Underactive thyroid leads to a range of insidious onset
symptoms, none of which are diagnostic, so screening
for elevated TSH which is pumped out by the pituitary
glad to get the thyroid working can help exclude or direct
physicians and patients concerned about thyroid function.
Finger prick home test priced £4.99.
Ferritin Iron Screening
Ferritin is an indicator of Iron levels in the body, low
ferritin levels are associated with anaemia, chronic
fatigue, muscle weakness, hair loss, brittle nails. A finger
prick home test is £4.96.
And that’s just a few currently on the market and available
now. By the time this goes to print we will have the latest
HbA1C instant test for elevated glycosated haemoglobin.
If you’re diabetic you will know all about this one. If you’re
one of the millions predicted to be at risk of diabetes
in the UK it offers an instant screening test for diabetes
and pre-diabetes for the first time without the laboratory
delay or hospital visits for glucose tolerance tests.
By Easter 2019 who knows what else will be included in
the ranges available. If you’re lucky enough to get that
last appointment with your GP, perhaps you could Google
it together?
Visit www.valuemed.co.uk to see the full range of home
test kits available.
eastlife.co.uk 63

Providing care for you at home
• Personal Care
• Shopping
• Companionship
• Housework
• Sit-in services
• Home from hospital
East of England Homecare is a community interest company
providing support to people in their own homes in Ipswich.
www.eehomecare.co.uk
Call us
on
01473
228877
Would you
like help
on hand
24 hours a
day?
Our friendly and fully trained live-in carers enable you
to stay at home with care available as you need it.
When Muriel became forgetful her daughter
arranged live-in care with Purely Care. A 24 hour
carer has allowed Muriel to retain her independence
and remain safe. Muriel can still decide where she
goes and when, the carer helps her choose an outfit
and makes sure she gets to her appointments on
time and finds her way back home safely. Muriel
loves having someone to chat to and remind
her when to put the TV on to watch her favourite
programmes.
Tel 01603 407707
www.purelycare.co.uk
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info@bourngolfandleisure.co.uk
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www.eastlife.co.uk

Everyone is inspired
At Clayburn Court care home, we embrace wellness. We support each of our
residents as individuals, with their own rich history, skills and abilities and likes and
dislikes. Our home is our community and it is your life-story, combined with our
unique expertise in caring for older people, that ensure our residents can express
themselves, maintain their identity and dignity and live a full and meaningful life.
Pru -f-rfi.
Clayburn Court care home Clayburn Road, Peterborough, PE7 8LB
If you’d like to fi nd out more about the choices Anchor care
homes offer our residents call 0808 102 5205 or visit
ClayburnCourt.co.uk
Rated Sept 2017
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Loving
Care
The New Year is the perfect time for change. If a
relative or loved one is having difficulty caring for
themselves independently, why not make 2019 the
year you help them?
The East of England is home to a huge range of quality
care and retirement homes. Some offer full time medical
care and every day assistance, while others can offer
the peace of mind that a relative is living in a like-minded
community with safety measures in place in case of
emergencies. Most come with a superb chef, hairdressers
and an impressive social scene. The search for the right
option can take some time but research is key in finding
the correct care or retirement home for your needs.
Care homes
In Hertfordshire, the purpose built Bentley House run by
Signature Senior Lifestyle offers exceptional accommodation
at an affordable price. While Snowdrop House in
Ware prides itself on its round the clock care and five star
facilities including entertainment.
In Cambridgeshire, Clayburn Court care home is purpose-built
and designed to provide the highest standards
of residential and residential dementia care. It is operated
by Anchor and set in the heart of the community. The
residents have recently enjoyed a range of celebrations
throughout the festive period and the home welcomes
any local older people to join the activities offering the
opportunity to enjoy some company and conversation
when the weather is cold and days are shorter.
Doors are also open to anyone who wishes to volunteer
or any local organisations who would like to work with
the residents and staff. The home includes a number
of facilities, such as a hair salon, coffee shop area and a
number of quiet lounges.
Residents can expect top quality food from Head Chef,
Rob Devonshire, who recently won Anchor’s prestigious
Chef of the Year competition, which was judged by Michelin
star chef Tom Shepherd. Clayburn Court takes pride in the
range of high quality, seasonally focused and nutritionally
balanced meals available to residents on a daily basis. The
catering team make an effort to get out of the kitchen and
speak to the people they cook for every day, finding out
about personal preferences and dishes that they particularly
enjoy.
Anchor was named ‘Residential Care Provider of the Year’
at the prestigious Health Investor Awards and celebrated
its 50th Anniversary in 2018. It is England’s largest not-forprofit
provider of care and housing for older people, which
enables reinvestment in its properties and homes.
Retirement Villages
Due to the demand of affordable housing, retirement
villages are popping up in towns and villages across the
region, providing stylish and safe accommodation for over
55s. Generally offering one or two bed homes and on-site
facilities such as a restaurant and communal area, it’s the
perfect option for those looking to downsize or perhaps
those who need extra security and support.
Debden Grange in Newport, near Saffron Walden is one
of the latest developments to open in Essex. Part of Retirement
Villages portfolio, the initial phase of building will
deliver seven, two-bedroom cottages accessed from Whiteditch
Lane, which will be completed by late spring 2019.
Each of the brick-built Beaufort cottages in the initial
build phase comprises a spacious hallway with open plan
sitting/dining area. There is a modern fitted kitchen with
integrated appliances and double bedroom with fitted
66 Download Our App Today!

Rob Devonshire, chef at Clayburn Court
wardrobe. Upstairs, the dormer landing leads through
to the master bedroom with ensuite bathroom and
two built-in wardrobes, as well as ground floor shower
room. A further 10 cottages will follow in the next phase,
alongside 64 one and two bedroom apartments, offering
a wide range of styles and layouts to choose from.
Residents will be able to enjoy a clubhouse incorporating
a relaxing lounge, restaurant, bar, library, meeting rooms,
hairdresser, shop, and a large external terraced area. A
care home will also be built on site and a range of care
services will be available should they be required.
For those interested a marketing suite with a 3D village
model is now open on Rose and Crown Walk in Saffron
Walden.
Later this year, Bedford in Bedfordshire will welcome
Wixams Retirement Village, which will offer 230 one and
two bedroom apartments for sale, shared ownership or
rental for over 55s. Conveniently located near the town
centre, the development will boast a host health and
leisure facilities including up to 50 activities on offer
Above; Debden Grange in Newport
per week including art classes, Tai-chi, yoga, computer
classes and gardening, some sessions run by residents
through a range of enriching volunteer opportunities.
Run by ExtraCare, it aims to care for residents but help
them stay independent. A well-being and specialist
dementia service will also be located within the village
centre.
As new retirement developments come to market and
homes across the region continue to offer excellent levels
of care, research and visits will help you make the right
decision. Keep an eye out for National Care Home Open
Day on 28 June.
eastlife.co.uk 67

We mainly specialise in silver, gemstone
and leather jewellery for both men and
women. We also have a lovely range of new
baby gifts, handbags, purses, scarves,
and gifts for all occasions.
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eve st clair
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January 2019
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Hat
Get ahead with a
Written by Ruth Essex
Fashion
Frosty mornings mean it is time to consider adding
a hat to your list of stylish essentials, but how do
you begin choosing one? I get clients to quickly glance
at themselves in the mirror. Look up, then look away,
then tell me what they notice is most dominant. Bright
eyes? Soft muted features? Hair colour? Skin tone?
Your dominant feature is a great guide to choosing the
best hat to flatter yourself.
Select a hat that echoes something about your features;
be that your hair colour, skin or eyes. If you have very dark
hair, a black felt hat will mirror this, and by adding dark
glasses, it amplifies the effect. Furry hats tend to work
well on those who have soft muted colouring, where the
distinction between the hair, skin and eyes is soft rather
than sharp. Smokey greys and soft camels are good
choices.
Look at the colour of your eyes too. Brown eyes are
amplified by choosing a hat of the same depth of brown,
be that a deep rich chocolate or a mid-range chestnut.
Hazel eyes and green eyes are complimented by green
hats. If your eyes are blue, choose a corresponding blue
shade and notice how prominent it makes your eyes.
Those with blonde or white hair look good with paler
accessorize |
uk.accessorize.com
Hat, Primark, £3
colours such as the pastels. Hair would be your dominant
feature if it is long; as it is the first thing you are likely to
notice about someone.
An animal print hat is a pattern that works very well for
those with multi-tonal hair, particularly in the light brown
to caramel tones. Chose a warm tone to compliment your
skin if you have golden highlights. If your hair is more ash
blonde or grey, with silver highlights, go for a cool animal
print instead.
You can amp up your head turning ability with a red lipstick
or tone it down by choosing a neutral colour hat. The
choice is yours. A hat can add style to any winter outfit so
spend a little time choosing the right one so you can be
confident knowing it looks and feels great on you.
Ruth Essex, - Stylist & Image Consultant
ruthcrofts@btinternet.com - Tel: 07900 910 666
eastlife.co.uk 69

Even more
to explore.
East Terrace Now Open.
With big brand fashion and delicious lakeside dining, all in
the great outdoors, Rushden Lakes now has even more to offer.
Find out more at rushdenlakes.com

SHOP
Who can resist the lure of a January sale?
Everything you’ve had your eye on in the
run up to Christmas is suddenly a fraction of
the price. With social media now influencing
consumerism more than ever before, it feels as
though sales and discount codes are available
everywhere, but how can you tell if you’re really
bagging a bargain? With this in mind, we’ve put
together five simple tips to help you become
the smartest of sale shoppers:
Where to start
Before you head into the crowds it’s vital to have a clear
idea of what you need. It can be tempting to indulge, but
neither your wardrobe or your bank balance will thank
you for it. Though the glitzy party dress you wanted is
now only £20, will you really wear it next December?
Pre-sale online research and making a list of key items
will stop you wasting your pennies.
Quality over quantity
Towards the end of last year, thanks to Stacey Dooley’s
BBC documentary ‘Fashion’s Dirty Secrets’, there was
a shift in buying habits. The programme showed the
shocking environmental impact caused by fashion, and as
a result influencers and bloggers started to share the importance
of sustainability in fashion with their followers.
However, sustainable fabrics come with a higher price
tag for obvious reasons, but the sales are a great time to
snap up a bargain. When shopping, check the fabric of
the items of clothing. Organic cotton, hemp, linen, wool
and cashmere usually cost more so are worth buying in
the sale – you’ll be helping the environment and buying
pieces with longevity saving you money in the long run!
Be prepared
Changing rooms are hell on earth during the sale season.
Long queues and tropical temperature cubicles are
enough to make you throw in the towel. Avoid having to
try clothes on by wearing a thin outfit under your coat
so you can simply slip items over the top and make use
of the store full-length mirrors. It will save you buying
an item that doesn’t fit, that you’ll never get around to
taking back.
How to be savvy sale shopper
Think bigger
Yes the sales are great for picking up clothing
and home furnishings, but those who save the
most are those that think bigger than material
items. We all know January is rather depressing,
so why not escape your blues with a holiday.
Flights from the UK are far less packed with
holidaymakers and business travellers in the first
weeks of January. Depending on the destination
and whether it’s low or peak season, with some
time, effort and research you may be able to find
some cheap flights to put a smile on your face.
Bargains on Bargains
If you’re in need of a wardrobe update head to
one of the region’s outlet shopping destinations.
Dotted throughout the East are the likes of The
Galleria in Hatfield, Hertfordshire, and Braintree
Freeport and Clacton Factory Outlet in Essex.
These outlet destinations offer up to 60% savings
on RRP prices on designer and well-known
brands. Add to that sale discounts and you’ll pick
up clothing, accessories and homeware items at a
fraction of the original price.
eastlife.co.uk 71

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Photographer: Sanshine Photography,
Planner: Katrina Otter Weddings,
Florist: Amie Bone Flowers
Wedding
Trends
of
2019
Last year I shared my top trend predictions for
2018 including transparent details, circular floral
backdrops, velvet and my personal favourite…
suspended flowers and foliage! And some of these
predictions are set to be even bigger news in 2019 –
step forward the hotly anticipated trend of intense /
bright colours.
The good news…2019 promises to be just as inspirational and
packed full of trend predictions that can easily be incorporated
into the design and/or style of your day.
So here it is, my guide to the wedding trends to look out for
and be inspired by in 2019:
Written by Katrina Otter
Instagram @katrinaotterwed
The Meghan Effect
The wedding of Meghan Markle and Prince
Harry has understandably imprinted itself
on the wedding industry and will affect
wedding trends for years to come and this
will be especially discernible in 2019.
From the dresses to the natural bridal
beauty, the statement yet foam free floral
and foliage installations to the Swiss
meringue buttercream…to name but a
few. It’s therefore no surprise that ‘The
Meghan Effect’ has made it to the top of
the trends feature for 2019.
Dried flowers and foliage
Instagram is suddenly awash with a
plethora of images of dried flowers and
foliage being used for weddings and styled
shoots, from the smaller details (dried
confetti) to larger statement pieces (think
suspended installations) and even as far as
bouquets, buttonholes and floral crowns.
The appeal…the nostalgia, the longevity,
the flexibility, the uniqueness and of course
the impact that they create.
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Vibe over palette
Every year we, as an industry, make a BIG deal about
colour trends and colour palettes and this year is no
exception. However, in 2019 I’m also predicting that
there will be a significant shift away from defining
colour schemes, with couples focusing more on
planning weddings that permeate around the notion
of a vibe or mood rather than a specific and potentially
restrictive theme, colour or colour palette.
Mindful and sustainable weddings
This is a BIG trend for 2019 and BIG news for the
wedding industry. It’s also one that I’m going to
revisit several times in my features throughout
the year.
The areas that are particularly prominent when it
comes to the notion of sustainability and
weddings are:
Outdoor, personalised and
celebrant-led ceremonies
In 2017, 20% of my couples had celebrant-led
ceremonies. This year the figure jumped to 40% and next
year…100%. Yes, that’s right – ALL of my couples next
year are forgoing legal and religious ceremonies (on the
day) in favour of celebrant-led ceremonies.
So why this rapid growth in popularity? Well, celebrantled
ceremonies can take place in any location, at any time
and they can be any format or style you want. Couples
can include the traditional elements that suit whilst
adding their own individuality, creativity and personality.
For such a long time, there’s also been huge restrictions
on outdoor weddings and whilst it looks like these
regulations might eventually change, outdoor weddings
(wherever you want) are already possible when you opt
for a personalised, celebrant-led ceremony… another
reason for their rapid growth in popularity.
• Foam/oasis free florals (it’s actually made from a
form of non-biodegradable plastic)
• Buying British, local and seasonal
• Sustainable bridal fashion
• Plastic free weddings (something that has
received quite a bit of coverage recently thanks to
Princess Eugenie and Jack Brooksbank and their
plastic-free Royal wedding)
Burgundy, Red and Plum
A trend feature wouldn’t be complete without a colour
palette prediction… step forward my personal favourite
– richly elegant, dramatic and intensely autumnal tones
from just-bitten berry to dark and dramatic plum tones.
I especially love this palette as it clearly invites you to be
adventurous and potentially incorporate tumbling fruit
displays into your floral centrepieces and tablescapes.
Katrina Otter is a Cambridgeshire based
wedding planner and event organiser with
over 10 years experience. Find out how
she could help you plan your wedding
day at www.katrinaotterweddings.co.uk
In a nutshell, celebrant-led ceremonies give couples the
freedom to say what’s in their heart and what’s important
to them in a setting of their choosing and this is ultimately
why we’re seeing such a significant change in the way
couples now say ‘I do’.
eastlife.co.uk 75

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Consumer
Martin Lewis Talks...
Stop letting home insurers (price) walk all
over you
Price walking is a clever technique many home
insurance providers use to make loyal customers
pay more. Each year if you stick with them they ‘walk’
up the price of cover – never too quickly to cause
alarm, but step, step, step, until they reach their goal.
After five years or so you can easily be paying more
than 50% over the odds.
So ask yourself, when did you last change your home
insurance provider? If the answer is more than a year ago,
you’re most likely paying a ‘loyalty penalty’ – far more
than you’d pay the same company as a new customer.
Yet you can easily stop this, and put more money in your
pocket without sacrificing quality of cover. The key five
steps to getting the right deal on your home insurance
are…
Step 1: Turn your house upside down to
define the right cover
There are two elements to home
insurance - buildings and
contents. An easy way to
work out what’s covered is to
imagine turning your home
upside down: everything
that stays put comes under
buildings. If it falls out, it’s
contents. A joint policy is
often easier as it means
no jurisdictional disputes
between firms.
Buildings insurance is only usually
needed by freeholders, not renters
or leaseholders. You only need to
insure the rebuild cost – so how much it
would cost to rebuild your home should it get
knocked down – rather than the market value, which is
the amount it might sell for. To find your rebuild value,
there’s a free calculator at abi.bcis.co.uk.
Contents cover is for everyone. Make sure that you
don’t under insure - to cut costs - thinking you’ll never
claim the full amount. If you do, it could mean you’re
then paid less if and when you do make a claim. And
you often have much more value in your home than you
think. Many insurers have useful calculators online to help
calculate the amount.
You should also go through all the details of things that
can make your house safer. Remember insurance pricing
is based on a risk assessment. There’s a huge variety
of things can impact on the premium you pay. There’s
full help on this and other steps in my detailed guide at
www.moneysavingexpert.com/homeinsurance
Step 2: Don’t just use one comparison site – combine
them
Comparison sites are a quick and easy way to find cheap
quotes if you’ve relatively straightforward circumstances.
Yet in truth they’re not actually comparison sites, they
are marketplaces, as they can have special deals and
prices with different insurers (but should never be more
expensive than going direct). So the best thing to do is
to combine a few of them to get a spread of insurers and
prices. You can simply open a few windows at a time and
put the same information in different ones.
Step 3: Check insurers that comparison sites miss
Two of the big insurers, www.aviva.co.uk and
www.directline.com are not included on comparison
sites, so check them separately, especially when they
have discounts (Aviva is currently offering a
discount of 20% for policies bought online).
Also there can be a range of special
promo deals that aren’t included on
comparison sites. When they’re
live they’re listed on www.
moneysavingexpert.com/
homeinsurance, so keep an
eye out.
Step 4: If you want to stay
put, haggle
Once you’ve found a cheaper
policy – you can always try
taking the price to your existing
provider and ask them to see if
they will match it – they often will.
Step 5: If you’re switching, once you
know what you’re getting, check for
cashback
Once you know your cheapest policy and crucially you’ve
checked IT’S RIGHT FOR YOU, then check if you can earn
cashback using a cashback site such as
Topcashback.co.uk or www.Quidco.com. These sites
pay you if you click through them to other companies
and purchase something - such as home insurance. This
usually works, but there can be tracking issues, so see
this as the icing on the cake rather than a core way to
choose. If you’ve got time and your top three policies
are all much of a muchness, it can be worth seeing the
cashback on offer for all three.
Martin Lewis is the Founder and Chair of
MoneySavingExpert.com. To join the 13million people
who get his free Money Tips weekly email, go to
www.moneysavingexpert.com/latesttip.
eastlife.co.uk 77

MITSUBISHI
OUTLANDER
PHEV
Written by Sue Cooke
Twitter @cookecars
January for me means a New Year, new
resolutions and new decisions. And one
of those decisions is to make the most of
the March number plate changes and buy a
new car. With the increasing wintry weather,
SUV sales are rising, but I am really spoilt for
choice.
I’m tempted to follow in my son’s footsteps and look
at the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, one of the UK’s
best-selling plug in hybrids. Benefits like low VED and
low Benefit in Kind rates, make it a popular company
car but the spacious Outlander PHEV which is so
economical to run and has all wheel drive to help with
slippery road conditions is great for families too. And
for long distance driving this month, to see relatives
who live further away, the seats are very comfortable.
The 2019 Outlander PHEV is the most technically
advanced SUV ever produced by MMC and was first
FACTS
AT A GLANCE
MODEL: Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV 4hs
PRICE: £41,600 otr
ENGINE: 2.4 LITRE AUTO
PERFORMANCE: 0-62mph in 10.5 seconds and on to
a top speed of 106 mph
CO2 EMISSIONS: 46 g/km (WLTP)
COMBINED FUEL CONSUMPTION: 139MPG (WLTP)
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Motoring
launched in the UK in 2014. For 2019, changes to the
exterior include a new front grille, bumper and fog lamp
bezels and a new LED headlamp system. I’m so glad
designers kept the quirky ‘transformer like’ projections
which emerge from the bumper and squirt water up at the
headlamps. I could have watched them for ages. There is
a new rear bumper and spoiler and a new 18” alloy wheel
design.
In the interior, there is a stylish new front seat design and
a reduction in cabin noise and there is an enhanced level
of equipment. My son was interested to check out the
new “Sport” button, which he doesn’t have on his older
PHEV. Press the button and there is a sharper throttle
responsiveness, sportier power steering and more grip via
the Super All-Wheel Control system. There is also a new
SNOW mode to improve low-grip and cornering abilities
on slippery surfaces. The traction control system has been
revised to improve hill-climbing performance.
There is a long list of safety equipment such as Adaptive
Cruise Control, Lane Departure warning and forward
collision mitigation. There is also a 360-degree camera
which displays a bird’s eye view of the perimeter of the
vehicle, which is now one of my ‘must haves’.
where legally permitted. The new powertrain is also more
efficient, burning less fuel particularly under light load
conditions such as when motorway cruising. Extreme
quiet on start-up and in EV mode is one of the features I
like the most about the Outlander PHEV. It is so calming
and encourages smooth, jerk free driving.
I like the automatic tailgate which opens to an absolutely
huge boot that will carry 463 litres and there is an underfloor
cargo box which copes with 35 litres. There are useful
deep pockets either side of the boot space which are
ideal for holding the odd carrier bag when you don’t want
the contents to spill onto the floor. The battery is housed
under the boot area but certainly doesn’t detract from
capacity.
The Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV is a great family car even
without the attraction of the Plug in Car Grant, which
the Government has decided to stop and which is totally
at odds with its Road to Zero Strategy! New Year, New
Decision?
A new 2.4 litre petrol engine which I road tested produces
more power and more torque. Owners will notice
the difference on inclines and when attempting rapid
acceleration which is some 0.5 seconds faster than before.
Top speed in EV mode moves up from 78mph to 84mph,
eastlife.co.uk 79

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Home & Garden
House
From
toHome
As house prices continue
to increase, making your
property a home for life has
never seemed more appealing.
Whether it’s adding an extra
bedroom, refurbishing the
kitchen or simply refreshing
rooms with a coat of paint,
we’ve pulled together a guide
on how to make your home feel
extra special in 2019….
eastlife.co.uk 81

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10
Things to
think about
before you decorate
Written by Cindy Fuller, Founder of Designs Direct (www.designsdirect.co.uk)
Decorating your home can be super exciting,
but so many of us start the process without
really giving it much thought and often buy items
because we like them, while not really thinking
about whether or not they will actually work in
the room. Have you ever heard the expression:
‘If you think hiring an interior designer is
expensive...Try decorating without one!’?
However, it’s not all doom and gloom.
Here are 10 things to think about before you
start. You will find tips to help you make the
process fun and give you the confidence to kick
off your project in the right direction.
1. TAKE YOUR TIME
Live in the space for a while before you even think about
decorating. I know how thrilling it can be to move and
have new beginnings but think carefully about how you
are going to use your space. Does the room have to work
double duty or maybe triple-duty? If you are a family and
have young children, there may be areas in the rooms that
you’ll want to designate just for them so you can keep an
eye on them while you are doing other things, especially if
they are toddlers. Or do you work from home and need to
incorporate a home office into your living room? Once you
have decided, then you can start planning.
2. GREY IS THE NEW MAGNOLIA
Grey has now replaced magnolia. You can’t go wrong
with grey. We are no longer in the days where magnolia
was the colour of choice, and it was everyone’s go-to
colour. Grey is a much better choice as a base colour
as it goes with anything and everything. Although, just
a tip, all colours have hues and undertones, yes, even
grey, white and black. There have been times in the past
I couldn’t work out why a particular grey wasn’t working
with another colour until I realised it had a slight green
undertone. Think black, now think inky black, if you look
at matt black or a glossy black and then an inky black, you
will see the beautiful, luxurious blue hue mixed within,
giving you a beautiful defining indigo colour.
3. LIGHTING
When designing for clients, one of the first things on the
list is where the light is going to be placed, and yet sadly,
when putting a scheme together without professional
help, it is often forgotten and however is one of the most
critical factors. It changes the whole mood of a room. We
now have what is called layered lighting, which is basically
multiple sources of light which are used to balance a
room. Just remember, light can make or break your design
giving it a completely different atmosphere, so use wisely!
DESIGNER TIP:
Never let the source of the light be seen.
5. MEASURE, MEASURE
AND THEN MEASURE AGAIN
This sounds so simple, but it may surprise you to learn
that some of us, (yes, you know who you are), buy large,
expensive pieces of furniture without actually checking
whether it will even fit in the room, or worse, through
the front door! Size matters! And nowhere is it more
valid than when decorating. The easiest way I have found
is to measure your space and draw it to scale (you will
need a scale ruler for this), on a piece of coloured card.
Use different coloured cards to cut out the size (to scale)
and shape of your furniture and effortlessly manoeuvre
it around your card. It’s so much easier shifting around
paper than it is furniture and the kids can join in!
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a painting or in a garden. Or of course my all-time
favourite, Pinterest. Or Instagram, but don’t say I
didn’t warn you, it can become very addictive! Look
for colours you love and you feel you could live with.
If you don’t like bright colours, opt for colours in a
muted tone. And remember, less is definitely more.
6. YOU DO THE MATHS
Now I’m no Einstein, if fact, I once asked my maths teacher
if he thought I would ever really use algebra, he apparently
thought he knew me well by replying: “No, you won’t, but
one of the smart kids might!” I did finally get over this.
However, it pays to brush up on it as decorating is all about
proportion and balance and it comes in very useful.
7. USE WHAT YOU ALREADY HAVE
This may sound like a simple idea, but when decorating
a new room, our instincts are to rush out and buy all new
stuff. That’s great if you have a healthy budget but what
if you don’t? Make a list and even take photographs and
attach them to a mood board. A mood board is merely a
piece of paper or card with images, clippings, colour ideas
and anything that inspires you. You could even make a
Pinterest board for it and ask your friends what they think!
Take photos of what you already have and add them to the
board, that way when you are out you are not tempted to
buy a replacement for an item you already own.
DESIGNER TIP:
If you already have an Ikea kitchen, leave
the carcass and purchase just the doors.
8. INSPIRATION
When you are faced with a blank canvas of a room, it
can be pretty daunting of just where to start. So if you’re
looking for inspiration, there are countless places to find
it. I recently was helping a friend who found a piece of art
she liked at Ikea. We formed the whole room around this,
matching the colours and finishes and she absolutely adores
it. Inspiration can be found in a beautiful scarf, a museum,
9 COLOURS
As far as colours go, if you have a reasonably good
sized room, pretty much anything goes. That’s great
I hear you say but what if my room is small or it has
to do double or triple duty? This really does not have
to be an issue. If you do have to divide the space,
then it helps to designate each area before you start.
That way you’ll know exactly how much space you
have to work with in each section. This can be done
by using different colours, finishes or flooring or all
of the above. It may help to use masking tape to plot
the area first and then measure. While we are talking
about colour, get yourself a compass, I will let you into
a little secret, light reflects differently on where it falls.
So, for instance, ever wondered why that beautiful
hue of cerise pink doesn’t look the same in your back
garden as it did in that fabulous riad in Morocco?
10. THE 60/30/10 RULE
This is definitely one rule you should apply. The
60/30/10 rule applies to the relationship between
three elements. Using colour components, for
example, one colour should cover 60%, another 30%
and another 10%. Decorating is all about balance. This
can be used for example by either three colours in
different shades or 60% as wall colour, 30% as covered
furniture and 10% as accessories.
eastlife.co.uk 85

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Visit the largest display of traditional and contemporary
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Our Essex showroom:
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Colchester
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Tel. 01787 222608
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WE OFFER A COMPLETE DESIGN, BUILD AND INSTALLATION SERVICE
Visit the largest display of traditional and contemporary
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Our Suffolk showroom:
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Suffolk IP30 0UL
Tel. 01284 388188
WE OFFER A COMPLETE DESIGN, BUILD AND INSTALLATION SERVICE

How to update a
kitchen on a budget
If your kitchen is looking tired and the thought
of a new kitchen is making you anxious, rather
than purchasing an entirely new kitchen, update
the kitchen you already have. There are many
ways to do this on a budget. With so many
products out there to choose from it’s sometimes
hard to decide which area to give ‘a new look’.
Here’s seven tips to help you through the maze
of information. It’s actually a lot easier and less
expensive than you would think.
Replacing handles
Without a doubt this is by far the most cost-effective way
to update your kitchen. All you need is a screwdriver,
places such as Homebase and B&Q offer chrome door
handles for as little as a £1, so there really is no excuse.
Painting the doors and drawers
It’s incredible what a tin of paint can do, if I have a client
that wants a change of colour and they are not used to
painting furniture, I suggest they use chalk paint. The
great thing about chalk paint is there is absolutely no prep
work involved at all. All you have to do is paint straight on
top of what you have. Unless of course, you are painting
over high gloss in which case you would have to sand
Written by Cindy Fuller,
Founder of Designs Direct
(www.designsdirect.co.uk)
them first. You can purchase a good range of chalk paint
colours and again these are available from places such as
Homebase and B&Q. Remember to wax them after the
paint has dried to keep them protected from everyday
wear and looking good. It’s also fun to do paint effects
with chalk paint such as sponging, dragging or you could
try a stippling effect. The finish would depend on the
brush you use.
eastlife.co.uk 89

Affordable Bespoke Kitchens &
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Opt for a different splashback
This is a great way to add some colour if
you have a black and white kitchen. You can
find inexpensive tiles if you shop around, try
places like Topps Tiles. If you give them your
measurements, they will tell you how many
tiles you will need. Don’t forget the grouting, I
often suggest adding a contrast colour for the
grouting, so for example, white subway tiles
with a dark grey grouting, it’s a lovely effect. If
you want to really save, you could cover your
tiles with removable tiles or peel and stick as
they are known. These can be purchased from
companies such as Wayfair and depending on which
ones you chose, range from £14.99 for a panel of
15 cm x 15 cm. They offer a beautiful Sea Glass peel
and stick panel which is 25.4 cm square for £18.99.
This is a great way to update your kitchen without
having to get a tiler in.
Replacing doors and drawers
If your kitchen doors and drawers have had their
day, there is no need to throw out the existing
carcass. It’s possible to save around 50% when
you do this. I always suggest this to my clients as
it’s a terrific way to keep the costs down. You can
buy these online at companies such as Kitchen
and Bedroom Doors or Dream Doors UK. These
companies also sell worktops and handles. Some
companies offer to send a sample of the door to
ensure you are completely happy. The majority of
these companies provide doors and drawers to fit
most standard kitchens, but you could also get
them made. Either way, it’s going to bring down
the cost considerably.
Change the window dressing
It helps to remember when purchasing curtains or blinds
for kitchens, that there is a lot of humidity, so only buy
fabrics that are made from vinyl or PVC or with a protective
coating, as these will be mould resistant and waterproof.
Companies such as Blinds 2 Go offer a 30 cm x 30 cm blind
for under £30 making it a great option. They also offer
you samples and are delivered within 7-10 working days.
At Designs Direct, we offer a Window Treatment Package
which is perfect for this. We have designers trained just in
soft furnishings, and they source your blind or curtain fabric
for you at a discount.
Adding an island
If you are fortunate enough to have space, add a kitchen
island. This will not only give you more counter space, but
it will also give you a lot more storage. It doesn’t even have
to be the same finish as the rest of the kitchen, it can be
something entirely different as long as it blends, by this
I mean; if you have chrome handles, don’t opt for gold
fittings on the island. Kitchen islands don’t even need to
be fitted. Clients have occasionally opted to go for one on
casters. This makes it that much easier to push aside if you
have guests eating in your kitchen.
eastlife.co.uk 91

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Beautiful
BATHROOMS
Written by Kate Garside
The bathroom is one of the most
used rooms in the house and
yet often the one that we give the
least thought to when buying or
renovating a property. So many home
commercial developers simply put
the same bland boring bathroom
suite in; their choice usually dictated
by budget rather than aesthetics
or quality. This month we are going
to look at some of the current key
trends in bathrooms and how you
can update this small but essential
room in your home, without breaking
the bank, and turn it into your own
personal sanctuary.
Monochrome is all the rage
Luckily most bathroom suites are white which
means this is a very easy trend to follow and
update. If you are refitting your bathroom,
white suites in either contemporary or
traditional styles are still very much on trend.
Black and grey on the walls are still big this
year in interiors. If you’re feeling adventurous
you could go for black wall tiles or paint. If
you are doing it on a budget simply add black
accessories. If you have a freestanding metal
bath you can easily change the colour by
painting the outside black or grey.
Textured wall tiles are another key trend
Go for neutral or monochrome colours such as
white, champagne, grey and black. For floors
encaustic geometric patterned tiles are likely
to be popular in 2019 and look fantastic in grey
and black. Check out a company called OTTO
tiles (www.ottotiles.co.uk), who have a lovely
selection to choose from and to inspire you.
Make sure when you are choosing your tiles
you match your grout to the tiles. Grout is now
94 Download Our App Today!

available in a wide range of colours. Grey grout
will always be lower maintenance than white
so this might be something to consider when
choosing your tile colour.
Matt metallic gold, champagne and
bronze
If you are changing your taps or shower a key
trend is to deviate from shiny chrome and opt
for warmer matt gold and bronze metallic.
Bathroom accessories with the same metallic
work well with this look.
Tropical oasis
This is a fun trend and one that I love. Add
a tropical pot plant such as an orchid, palm,
rubber plants or a spider plant in a beautiful
pots to your bathroom to create a holiday vibe.
Choose a planter that works with your chosen
scheme. Maybe a black or white pot for a
monochrome scheme or a matt metallic. If you
don’t want to add plants then a simple vase
and some cut flowers can look very effective
and bring a feeling of luxury to your bathroom.
Who would not love to have their own
personal day spa?
You can achieve the look and feel easily with
the addition of carefully folded matching white
towels, scented candles in neutral colours,
white bath robes and beautifully displayed
bath products, also in neutral colours. Tidy all
the everyday clutter away into the bathroom
cupboards, get out the scented candles and
products that you have been saving, and you
have created your very own spa.
Freestanding furniture is big
Another stylish trend if you have a large
bathroom is to add some freestanding furniture
to your design. For example, an antique glass
fronted bookcase can be repurposed as towel
storage. A chest of drawers is great for storing
all those things you don’t necessarily want on
view. You can paint it to fit in with your colour
scheme. Go for neutrals if you want to stay on
trend or leave it as natural wood. Try a cocktail
table next to the bath to put your drinks and
toiletries on. You can have a lot of fun finding
suitable pieces if you visit your local auction
house or antiques centre.
Easy bathroom updates
A very easy and effective way to refresh your
bathroom and another trend for 2019, is to
add a feature mirror or a piece of artwork. A
matt gold or black frame can work very well
or a monochrome piece of art but really just
go with what you love. A good way to create
some texture and a pop of colour is to add a
cosy rug!
Treat yourself to some new towels
Changing your towels is a quick and
inexpensive way to refresh your bathroom on
a budget. Think of it in a similar way to getting
some new cushions for your sofa. If you want
to be on trend this winter go for dark grey or
black towels, and maybe swap them for light
grey or white in the spring to create a fresher
look. Soft fluffy white towels are always classy
and will go with any colour scheme.
Finishing touches
Turning your bathroom into a sanctuary does
not have to cost a fortune. It’s all in the detail.
Luxury bath items and accessories can be
purchased inexpensively at TK Maxx at a
fraction of their normal cost and will give your
bathroom the day spa or five star hotel feel.
Light the candles, turn down the lights, pour
yourself a glass of something lovely and slip
into a warm fragrant bubble bath and relax.
It’s just what the doctor ordered!
Kate lives in North Norfolk and is an owner of a holiday
cottage in Blakeney that she has renovated with her
husband and now rents as a holiday let. She is passionate
about vintage and antique furniture & china, upcycling,
gardening and Norfolk.www.blakeney-cottage.co.uk
eastlife.co.uk 95

THE BIG WINTER
SALE
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Lauren Harris, Senior
Designer at DFS takes a
moment out of her day
designing sofas in DFS’
design studio, to let us
in on the trends we can
expect to see in 2019...
DFS Joules Cambridge
Sit in
STYLE
DFS Zania Sofa; Dulux colour of the year
Down to earth
When it comes to colour, we’re seeing a move towards
warm hues such as rust, burnt orange and terracotta, and
earth tones are predicted to be a big trend for 2019. We
recently worked with Dulux to create a limited edition
of our popular Zania modular sofa, centred around the
Dulux 2019 Colour of the Year, Spiced Honey, and colours
from Dulux’s ‘Think’ palette, new for 2019. Work this look
by dressing the sofa with a range of tactile cushions in
complementary shades to create a soothing, inviting place
to relax.
Tactile textures
Velvet will remain huge for 2019 but boucle will take the
top spot this year - at DFS, we’re working on ranges that
will use boucle fabrics to offer a tactile and contemporary
edge. Textured fabrics were everywhere at last year’s
Salone Del Mobile international design show, and at our
design studio, we’re working up designs that will mix and
layer different textured fabrics within single pieces, to
reflect this trend.
Bold florals
Botanical and floral prints remained popular throughout
2018 and this trend is set to continue in 2019, in particular
bright, busy flower head motifs. Our Joules Cambridge
sofa, part of the Joules collection available exclusively at
DFS, offers a classic form and exquisite detailing which
will be a hit with those who like a traditional look, while its
bold floral print and bright shades keep it on trend. Use
the sofa as your colour palette for a fun and colourful look,
or keep the walls and floors neutral to make the sofa the
star of the show.
Mixing it up
We’re seeing more and more people mix and match their
furniture to create a personalised, eclectic look. At DFS,
our research has shown that around one in five customers
have ditched the matching three-piece suite in favour of a
mix and match approach. Our Peace chair is a great option
for this trend, as it comes in a choice of five fabrics and 31
shades, along with a choice of four feet colours, so you
can select the perfect combination for your look.
eastlife.co.uk 97

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Home
Furnishings
Our extensive showrooms house a large range of pine, oak & hand painted
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Monday - Saturday 9.00am Open – daily 5.00pm - Bank • Sunday holiday 10.00pm opening – times 4.00pm 10am • Bank to 5pm Holidays 9.00am – 5.00pm
Tel: 01986 893 Tel: 423 01986 - Email: 893 423 enquiries@earshamhomefurnishings.co.uk - Email: earshamhomefurnishings.co.uk - - Web: www.earshamhomefurnishing.co.uk
www.earshamhall.co.uk
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Unit 5 Bridge Business Park, Top Street, Martlesham, IP12 4RB.

#TRENDING
We list the hottest interior trends sweeping
the nation in 2019
As we enter the New Year, it’s exciting to
look forward to the interior trends of
2019; where we can begin anew and explore
new ways to reinvent our homes. It’s for this
reason property specialists, Sellhousefast.uk
have explored the interior trends favoured by
different regions across the UK (in 2017), in
addition to discovering what interior trends
have been most popular in 2018, and what we
can swap them for in 2019.
To achieve this, Sell House Fast analysed a report by
Homewings titled: ‘The Homewings Interiors Trend
Report 2018.’ The report reviewed over 13,000 style
quiz surveys across the UK. For residents in the middle
of England, a traditional take on ‘Scandi’ was a personal
favourite; minimalism and muted hues is key. Similar
interior trends can be mapped in the South West and
East Anglia. While ‘modern tradition’ suits residents in
the South West; the ultimate balance between style and
comfort, East Anglian residents take it one step further
with ‘country chic’; a shabby-yet-stylish look, enhanced
with delicate colour schemes.
especially in the bathroom. If you’re worried it will look
too utilitarian, don’t forget it can be polished down for a
sleek, smooth finish.
Velvet
Luscious velvet has been seen everywhere in 2018, most
notably in sofas and soft furnishings.
In 2019, swap it for: Passementerie.
Passementerie is the art of making elaborate trimmings
or edges; think fringing and tassels. Sumptuously retro,
this trend will be seen in vibrant colour combinations and
unusual shapes. It’s the perfect way to accessorise a plain
background and adds a fabulous, flirty feel and texture
too.
Terracotta and Rust
Bold and non-conformist, tones of terracotta and rust
featured in many homes this year.
In 2019, swap it for: Honey and nude.
2019 will call for a far more elegant palette of warm,
autumnal shades that will melt into the New Year. Utterly
warming shades of classic cashmere, sand and oatmeal are
the perfect place to start.
SellHouseFast selected the biggest trends with
inspiration from Livingetc and Elle Décor in 2018 and
sourced alternatives to swap them for in 2019.
Brass
With copper fading fast in 2017, brass became the metal
finish to experiment with in 2018.
In 2019, swap it for: Concrete.
All things industrial will be a big trend in 2019. Tough
yet practical, concrete is a great addition to the home,
Terrazzo Floors
With its many colour combinations, alternative flooring
made an impact in 2018.
In 2019, swap it for: Scallops and scales.
In 2019, interiors will dive into the ocean (thank Sir David
Attenborough for this trend!) Curved, scalloped furniture
will be a big trend in living spaces and bedrooms. While
mermaid and fish scale tiles will breathe life into every
bathroom or kitchen surface.
eastlife.co.uk 99

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RML0032_Eastlife_Mag_Ad_148x107_V1.indd 1 12/12/2018 13:06
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Out of hours phone: Tony on 07738559569
www.langtryfurniture.co.uk

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The
Say hello to Wendy Howes, our gardening columnist,
who will be revealing the trials and tribulations of her
garden restoration project every month…
Today has been one of those interesting
winter days where no matter how hard it
tries, it just never seems to get light. It is also
bitterly cold. Lamps have been left on all day,
as has the heating and thoughts of pottering
around the garden seem like a distant dream.
Percy Cane at Imperial Gardens
often wondered what happened to Percy’s original plans,
drawn up in 1935. We considered ourselves lucky to even
have a rather poor photocopy of them. So to find out
they are literally just up the road from us is fabulous news.
Liz has kindly promised to show us them in the New Year.
It would be wonderful if we were able to obtain a high
quality copy, which could be framed and hung on one of
our walls overlooking the garden.
By the time you read this I am hoping we will have our
first glimpse of the snowdrops we planted in the autumn.
For me they are always the turning point, hinting at
longer days to come and new beginnings. It seems
particularly poignant right now, living in a world where we
are surrounded by so much change and unpredictability,
that mother nature at least can be relied on to provide us
with some certainty and routine.
Wishing you a very prosperous and happy 2019.
Read more on Wendy’s blog at
www.wendyswholeworld.com
So it was rather lovely to have the distraction of a trip to
the Frinton & Walton Heritage Trust to look forward to.
I found myself there with a completely different hat on;
a quest to unearth some of Frinton’s Summer Theatre
history. However, whilst chatting to one of the Trust’s
archivists, Liz, I had the most wonderful surprise. Having
not met Liz before, one thing becomes instantly apparent;
there isn’t much this lady doesn’t know about Frintonon-Sea
and its history. As soon as Liz became aware of
exactly where in the town I lived, she gleefully told me
that the trust is the proud owner of the original plans for
the Percy Cane garden we have inherited!
Suddenly this dull and dreary winter’s day had been
turned into a joyous celebration. My husband and I have
Percy Cane at Dartington
eastlife.co.uk 103

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Supplementing
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How to maximise
your house search
Property
In today’s world consumers go online to look for
information to support their buying decisions,
but it can be tough, you often find yourself
falling into a Right Move hole and the task
becomes tedious. Richard Carpenter from Fine
& Country St Neots (www.fineandcountry.com)
discusses how to maximise property viewings
online and through other opportunities.
Shopping is no longer about showing up at a store to
make a purchase. Consumers often do their research on
the go, using smartphones and tablets to find information.
Given this phenomenon, it’s not surprising that the
real estate marketplace has also become increasingly
digitalised.
Approximately 90% of home buyers begin their search for
a new home online; consequently an online presence is
a vital component of any marketing strategy. For today’s
buyers, it’s also about getting accurate information
quickly and conveniently. Agents bridge the gap between
internet research and viewing a property, which ultimately
leads to buying a home.
More traditional marketing methods still play a role.
Consider your own buying habits – a shop window display
can still be the trigger that leads to a sale. While in the
main, agents are dealing with customers who have done
research online first, a well-presented property in print
media may still be the motivation for a website search.
The statistics of people that browse portals such as
Zoopla or Rightmove are staggering. An estimated 2.6
million people log on at least once a day. Research also
shows that a viewer’s eye is naturally drawn to items
that stand out. Ensuring the first impression is right is
important, as this will entice buyers to a home viewing.
It is still a home inspection that will ultimately convince
the buyer the home is the right one for them. There is a
move to digital viewings, but this is more likely to be for
an investment property, which is a less emotive purchase.
The rules about presenting a property for digital viewing
are still the same; de-cluttering, presentation and letting
plenty of light in still apply.
Agents have become skilled in using internet marketing
tools and can advise you on the best media options for a
particular property. They have also developed expertise
in using e-mail marketing tools effectively. With potential
buyers able to browse through hundreds of properties at
the click of a button, providing the essential information
that will move them to the viewing stage has become a
highly valuable skill.
Social media platforms, such as Instagram, Twitter and
LinkedIn, also have a part to play. Utilising different types
of media can give unique insight into your home for
sale. While it’s still important to maintain an appropriate
marketing mix, the statistics are increasingly pointing
towards digital marketing as the most important element
of a property sale.
eastlife.co.uk 105

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Arts
The Arts Column
Written by Collette Hoefkens,
proprietor at Norton Way Gallery
and an artist in her own right.
Tel: 01462 685139 |
www.nortonwaygallery.com
Once again the New Year is upon us and it is time
to start marking the diaries and calendars with
appointments and events. Be sure to include as many
visual treats as possible. Why not pencil in a visit to
one of our wonderful, regional fine art galleries. There
you will be able to inspire your soul, warm your heart
and face the colder days with creative resolve.
Many galleries will be displaying superb collections
over the next few weeks and longer. I have chosen the
Bircham Gallery for January. Dedicated to original and
meaningful art they will be holding an excellent exhibition
of work from artist printmakers.
Printmaking is one of the oldest and truly creative
image-making processes. It is not for the faint-hearted
artist and takes much experience, skill, nerve and
dedication. The works produced are all original pieces
and should not be confused with reproductions or giclee
prints, embellished or not.
The specific printing method the artist adopts will have
its special characteristics and is usually chosen for this
reason. Due to the, sometimes, unpredictable outcomes,
printmakers often describe the process as being managed
rather than controlled. Although there has to be
a strong forethought of how the finished pieces should
turn out, the nature of the different processes ensures
that serendipity will be at play.
Mother and Daughters with Bird by Anita Klein
With each different process it is usually possible to
produce more than one finished image. This is because
the artist uses a block or a plate to apply the medium
to the paper, rather than a brush or pencil. The plate
is usually created in a solid form. With etching and
drypoints, a copper plate is often used. With woodcuts
and wood engravings, it will be no surprise that the plate
is made from wood. By cutting, gouging or scratching,
using different kinds of sharp instruments, the artist is
able to mark the plate creating an initial crude, reverse
template.
Once a plate has been created the artist can apply their
chosen material such as ink or watercolour and sometimes
oil paint. The plate is then pressed to the paper
or other material, producing an impression. This process
can be repeated many times and with each repetition
the result will be subtly different. Unless using a “Mono”
type of printing method, there will usually be more than
one original made and kept. The artist will only chose the
individual pieces that they deem to be successful, discarding
many of the previously attempted impressions.
The collective of these pieces is called an edition and
should be numbered and signed by the artist.
The Bircham Gallery has a particularly strong contingent
of printmakers. This latest collection will include
etchings, drypoints, linocuts, mono prints and many
more different examples. Brightly uplifting portraits from
world famous Anita Klein PPRE, will entice you into her
world of family, friends and relationships. Whilst beautifully
composed depictions of wildfowl and landscapes
from master wood engraver Colin See Paynton, will leave
you full of wonder and awe at his incredibly intricate and
breathtakingly beautiful work.
Cormorants & Eels by Colin See Paynton
Printmakers, 12 January - 6 February 2019
Bircham Gallery, 14 Market Place, Holt, Norfolk, NR25
6BW. Tel: 01263 713312 | www.birchamgallery.co.uk
eastlife.co.uk 107

K&T Eastlife .qxp_1 21/11/2018 17:45 Page 1
24 November 2018 - 28 April 2019
CHRISTCHURCH MANSION, IPSWICH
There is a story
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Kiss and Tell: Rodin and
Suffolk Sculpture
Auguste Rodin, The Kiss, ©Tate, London 2018
kissandtellipswich.co.uk
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Arts News
for January
Holt Festival Announces 2019 Dates
The award-winning Holt Festival will be returning to the
North Norfolk town on from 21-27 July 2019, under the
new permanent artistic directorship of Anwen Hurt.
Anwen promises to retain all the popular mix of styles
that have made the festival such a hit for the past 10
years while introducing new strands that she is sure will
prove popular with locals and visitors alike.
Previous festivals have seen the likes of Michael Palin,
Jasper Carrott, Melvyn Bragg, The Stranglers, Steve
Harley & Cockney Rebel, Suzy Quatro, ,Michael Buerke,
Dr John Cooper Clarke, Joanna Trollope, Kate Adie and
Julie Christie.
The first highlights will be announced in late February
with the full programme going on sale at the end
of April and there’s sure to be another dazzling
international array of music, drama, visual art, film,
literature, dance, comedy, kids shows and more.
There’s also the Holt Festival – Sir John Hurt Art Prize,
named in honour of the much missed screen legend
(and Anwen’s husband) who was such a great supporter
of the Festival. The Prize attracts entries from all over
the country with the shortlisted entries being exhibited
throughout the Festival week and a cheque for £1,700
and a showing at Sainsbury Centre for Visual Arts for the
winner. Full details at www.holtfestival.org
‘Art, obsession and maturity’ at
The Crypt Gallery, Norwich
According to art critics, it’s the era of mature, women
artists and now, a new exhibition ‘Obsession, Art and
Maturity’ at The Crypt Gallery at the Norwich School, will
celebrate this trend for the rise of older women artists
by showcasing the work of three leading, Norwich-based
artists from 21 March to 5 April.
Photographer Julia Cameron, painter Mary Mellor and
sculptor Vanessa Pooley all have decades of experience,
a notable back catalogue of work – and a lifelong creative
obsession that has led them to create their most inspired
work later in life.
A new phenomenon in the art world now sees critics
overlook the young and up-and-coming in favour of
veteran creatives – and particularly more mature women
artists. All three artists in the Norwich exhibition are
united by a lifelong creative obsession with a theme.
Photographer Julia Cameron, 64, repeatedly visits the
same sparse landscapes around the salt marshes and the
South Beach of Great Yarmouth, while painter Mary Mellor,
68, has returned to the theme of composition in paintings
over many decades producing tens of works that revisit
this. Sculptor Vanessa Pooley, 60, has been obsessed with
the female figure since she began working as an artist 40
years ago. www.cryptgallery.space
The Affordable Art Show at
The Corn Hall, Diss
The Corn Hall will be exhibiting work from more than 20
local artists as part of the Affordable Art Show, until 12
January.
Visitors can view and buy sdiverse and affordable
artworks, ranging from prints and paintings to ceramics
and multi-media pieces. All art will be available to
purchase for a maximum price of £250, with many
available for less. The gallery spaces are open Monday –
Saturday, 10am-4pm. All exhibitions are free entry.
www.thecornhall.co.uk
Photographer Julia Cameron
eastlife.co.uk 109

10 of the Best
Essex Villages
to Visit in 2019
Written by Abby Knight
Whether you already live in the county
and just want a little inspiration of
where to visit or are thinking of taking a
day trip or longer – Essex has some of the
prettiest villages and coastal towns in the UK,
here we’ve picked our top 10:
1.Battlesbridge – boats, antiques and more
The small village of Battlesbridge has a distinctly vintage
feel holding regular classic car and motorbike shows, and
the converted riverside lofts are the hub for a number
of antiques and collectible shops. Located on the River
Crouch, it’s been a base for the river industry for over 100
years and boats and barges still sail by regularly making it
a good place to sit and while away an hour or two.
Must try: The Barge Inn is one of two pubs in
Battlesbridge that serves traditional gastro-style pub
food in a cosy rustic setting and is dog-friendly.
Check out the garden in summer too!
Visit bargebattlesbridge.co.uk for details.
2. Thaxted – A historical gem
It’s the striking combination of historical architecture and
rolling countryside that makes Thaxted a real jewel to
visit and explore. You’ll love the brightly coloured houses
with their traditional thatched rooves and there’s lots of
pretty walks to enjoy including one to the church that has
wonderful views of the Chelmer valley.
Must try: John Webb’s Windmill is one of the finest
examples of an Essex mill lovingly restored by a local
family, it’s free admission and great to visit in early spring.
3. Stock – as pretty as a picture
As well as being one of the most affluent villages in
Essex, Stock is one of the most picturesque too. With a
history that stretches back, there is a thriving heritage
society who can give you a real insight into the village’s
history. Stock’s All Saints Church dates back to the early
13th century and there’s a windmill to visit too, plus Stock
woods is the perfect place to take a doggy companion –
especially during the snowdrop and bluebell seasons.
Must try: Voted one of the best places to take afternoon
tea, Greenwoods Hotel & Spa is situated in a grade II
listed 17th century manor house. Afternoon tea is served
every day in the cosy manor lounge, from £23.50, call
01277 829990 or visit greenwoodshotel.co.uk for details.
4. Tillingham – step back in time
Located in the Maldon district with a population of just
1,000, this tiny village has a real community feel and the
village green overlooking the church is the perfect place
to sip a pint in the warmer weather.
Must try: The Cap & Feathers pub dates back to the
15th century and has lots of atmosphere. Book for one of
the tasty curry night events or look out for the BBQs that
take place most weeks during the summer.
Visit capandfeathers.co.uk for details.
5. Dedham – a jewel on the river
Most well-known as being Constable Country, famous
19th century artist John Constable used the pretty
riverside village of Dedham with its dramatic lowland
landscapes and water meadows along the River Stour as
the subject for many of his paintings. There is also lots of
impressive architecture to see too and some pretty walks
to take on a good day. Make sure you hire a row boat
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and make the most of this splendid location.
Essex
Must do: The Sun Inn is an original medieval coaching
inn dating back to the 15th century which is now a
stylish restaurant with seven 5-star individual rooms to
stay each with en-suite facilities. The restaurant serves
modern European food as well as popular Sunday roast
or why not try an early spring afternoon tea? It also has
a ‘Sunday Sleepover’ offer which includes Sunday lunch,
dinner, accommodation and complimentary breakfast
at £200, conditions apply. Visit suninndedham.com for
menu and details.
6. Stansted Mountfitchet – the castle on the hill
Dating back to Saxon times with a good amount of
16th and 17th century history attached to it too, visiting
this impressive village is like stepping back in time. The
windmill built in 1787 dominates the skyline and there’s
a wide range of wonderful pubs and restaurants to
choose from once you’ve strolled the winding streets to
Mountfitchet Castle.
Must try: The House On the Hill Toy Museum situated
next to the castle is reportedly the largest toy museum in
the world with over 80,000 exhibits dating back. Find out
more by visiting stanstedtoymuseum.com for details.
7. Wivenhoe – a seaside treat
Steeped in maritime history, this bustling town has long
been a hub for the artistic community in Essex as well
as being the home of the award-winning University of
Essex and its students. Visit the quay and take a trip on
the ferry along the river to view the wildlife then stop for
lunch in one of the many pubs and restaurant, including
the Tudor Tea Rooms and the Black Buoy that serves a
variety of real ales.
Must try: The Nottage Maritime Institute is a registered
charity dating back to 1896 that not only provides RYA
shore-based courses but can also teach you how to
build a boat! With a great collection of photographs
Thaxted
Dedham
and pictures, it makes a great morning or afternoon visit.
Open seasonally. Visit nottage.org.uk for details.
8. Writtle – the village on the green
This gem of a village located just a mile from Chelmsford
was once described as the loveliest in England most
likely due to its traditional green, duck pond, the ancient
church and cottages. It’s also home to Hylands House &
Park, a grade II, Neo-classical villa that is well known for
hosting V Festival, now Rize music festival each summer.
Must try: The Bridge Street Lounge & Grill is a family
restaurant that serves a fantastic a la carte menu and has
a smart outside eating area for warmer days – and nights.
Visit bridgestreetlounge-grill.com for details.
9. Frinton-on-Sea – an elegant beach resort
This seasonal town in Essex’s Tendring District has been
visited by many notable people including the current
Prince of Wales and Winston Churchill, who even rented a
house there one summer. As well as the many boutiques,
shops and bars along the smart seafront there is the
Frinton Golf Club where you can enjoy a coffee as a nonresident
too.
Must try: There’s nothing better than Frinton beach
– even on a winter’s day. Totally unspoilt but safe for
paddling and swimming, pack a picnic and breathe in the
fresh air!
10. Ashdon – nestling on the river
Sitting just on the border of Essex and Cambridgeshire
along the River Bourn, Ashdon has one of the few
remaining post mills in Essex, Bragg’s Mill, which was
fully restored and reopened in 2006. It is a grade II listed
building and makes for some great pictures on a sunny
day. Take a stroll along to the 13th century All Saints
Church before stopping for a coffee or drink in one of the
pretty pubs.
Must try: The Rose & Crown pub is a popular eatery
serving home-cooked food including the now-famous
sticky toffee pudding dessert and some great ales. Call
01799 584337 for details and opening times.
eastlife.co.uk 111

Sir Alfred Munnings forged much of his early reputation
from time spent as a war artist in France during 1918.
In 2019, for the first time in 100 years, 41 paintings by
Munnings are returning together from the Canadian War
Museum, Ottawa. In this once-in-a-lifetime display the
finished paintings will be shown side by side with the
surviving sketchbooks, from the museum’s own collection,
that inspired them.
An additional 150 of Munnings life’s works will be hung
chronologically throughout the museum to give a sense
of the man and his art.
23 March - 3 November 2019
2pm-5pm, Wednesday to Friday
and Bank Holiday Mondays
Adults £8 (inc seniors) Children £1
Concessions for students and National Art
Pass holders • Group bookings welcome
Car and coach parking • Cafe and shop
The Munnings Art Museum
Castle Hill, Dedham, CO7 6AZ
www.munningsmuseum.org.uk
enquiries@munningsmuseum.org.uk
01206 322127 Reg. charity no. 310671
3031 MAM-Advert_Eastlife_148x107.indd 1 12/11/2018 13:49
The Dorrington
2 great venues for your event!
The Dorrington for your celebratory
parties, both large and small.
The Trinity Nightclub
The Trinity Nightclub on the first floor has
a capacity of 230 guests and is available to
hire FOR ONLY £275 for a four hour slot to
include DJ. Alternatively you can have
The River Lounge FREE OF CHARGE
for smaller parties.
It can hold 60 guests and is ideal
for Birthday Parties, Baby Showers,
anniversaries etc. Email your enquiry
to thedorrington@gmail.com
The Dorrington Halstead - Essex CO9 1JD
Tel: 07790955805 www.thedorrington.co.uk
enquiries to: thedorrington@gmail.com

What’s on in Essex
THEATRE, FILM AND SHOWS
4-5 Jan Hansel and Gretel Go Down
in the Woods
With a minimum of set, props and
costume the fearless company of 3
actors will take on the traditional and
the not so traditional pantomime
characters to keep you entertained
and prolong the all too short seasonal
spirit! Palace Theatre, 430 London
Road, Westcliff-on-Sea, SS0 9LA
01702 351135
www.southendtheatres.org.uk
6-Jan The King and I: From the
London Palladium
An encore screening of the multiaward-winning
and critically
acclaimed Lincoln Center Theater’s
production of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s
‘The King And I’, recorded
live from London’s iconic Palladium.
Saffron Screen, Saffron Walden
County High School, Audley End
Road, Saffron Walden, CB11 4UH.
01799 500238. saffronscreen.com
7-12 Jan Benidorm Live
Litten has now written an all new
set of Alicante escapades for the
much-loved cast members as they
swap sangria for the stage - after a
quick spruce up at the Blow ‘n’ Go!
Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea,
SS0 7RA . 01702 351135
www.southendtheatres.org.uk
11-12 Jan Sam Avery – The Learner
Parent
Stand-up comedian, viral blogger
and bestselling author Sam Avery
(aka the Learner Parent) started his
award-winning blog when his twin
boys were born. A million nappies,
Peppa Pig episodes and a head-full of
hair loss later, he shares all the lows,
highs and hilarious in-betweens of his
experiences of first-time parenthood.
Palace Theatre, 430 London Road,
Westcliff-on-Sea, SS0 9LA. 01702
351135. www.southendtheatres.org.uk
12-Jan Bugsy Malone
Be transported back to the roaring
1920s as we follow Bugsy, Fat
Sam and a full supporting cast in
a high octane mix of song and
dance. Princes Theatre, Station
Road, Clacton-on-Sea, CO15 1SE.
01255 686633. www.tendringdc.
gov.uk › Leisure › Princes Theatre
12-Jan The Bodyguard
A magical rollercoaster ride through
three decades of classic hits. This
award-winning production features a
sensational line-up of musicians and
artists, creating a powerhouse breathtaking
performance in the spirit
of Whitney. Queens Theatre, Billet
Lane, Hornchurch, RM11 1QT.
www.queens-theatre.co.uk
15-Jan Sandi Toksvig Live! National
Trevor
Expect tall stories, fascinatingly funny
facts, really silly jokes, a quick fire
Q&A and a quiz. Cliffs Pavilion, Station
Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS0 7RA.
01702 351135.
www.southendtheatres.org.uk
19-Jan Andrew Lawrence - Clean
Andrew Lawrence, star of Live at
The Apollo and Michael McIntyre’s
Roadshow and UK comedy’s foremost
controversialist takes a break from all
the outrage to present an all new hour
of good, clean fun. Palace Theatre,
430 London Road, Westcliff-on-Sea,
SS0 9LA. 01702 351135.
www.southendtheatres.org.uk
19 Jan - 28 Sep Afternoon Glee
Harlow’s very own drag queen Fanny
will be your host, and you might
even get to enjoy some lip-syncing
from the Queen herself. The Harlow
Playhouse, Playhouse Square, Harlow
CM20 1LS. 01279 431945
www.playhouseharlow.com
19-Jan Ministry of Science
Keep your head firmly on your
shoulders, arms, legs and feet inside
the ride at all timess - ‘Ministry of
Science Live’ is about to explode
onto the stage. Queens Theatre,
Billet Lane, Hornchurch RM11 1QT.
www.queens-theatre.co.uk
21-26 Jan The Lady Vanishes
A new adaptation of the much-loved
film - directed by Alfred Hitchcockand
starring Margaret Lockwood and
Michael Redgrave. Palace Theatre,
430 London Road, Westcliff-on-Sea,
SS0 9LA. 01702 351135
www.southendtheatres.org.uk
22 Jan - 2 Feb The Bodyguard
Former Secret Service agent turned
bodyguard, Frank Farmer, is hired to
protect superstar Rachel Marron from
an unknown stalker. Each expects to
be in charge – what they don’t expect
is to fall in love. Cliffs Pavilion, Station
Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS0 7RA
01702 351135.
www.southendtheatres.org.uk
30 Jan - 9 Feb Annie
Join Annie, a plucky, charming
orphan girl, and her loveable
adopted mutt named Sandy, as they
take you on a musical adventure in
1930’s New York. Mercury Theatre,
Balkerne Gate, Colchester, CO1 1PT
01206 573948.
www.mercurytheatre.co.uk
31-Jan That’ll Be The Day!
This latest production features a
fantastic new-line-up of smash hits
spanning the 50s, 60s, 70s & 80s, plus
more side-splitting comic sketches,
all performed live on-stage! Civic
Theatre, Duke Street, Chelmsford,
CM1 1JG. 01245 606505
www.chelmsford.gov.uk
31 Jan - 3 Feb Rapunzel
‘Clacton Musical Theatre Society’
present a tangled tale of a tiny baby
stolen away in the night, and locked
in a tower by the evil Witch Gothel.
Will she ever be rescued and escape
the tower she so longs to leave? West
Cliff Theatre, Tower Road, Clactonon-Sea,
CO15 1LE. 01255 433344.
www.westcliffclacton.co.uk
MUSIC
16-17 Jan Fastlove
The show is packed with crowd
pleasing anthems. From the Wham
classics of the new pop revival to the
chart-topping success of the eighties
album Faith. Plus the awesome
tunes of the nineties and noughties,
including the irresistible Flawless.
eastlife.co.uk 113

Real Diamond
Friday 18 January
7.45pm
Friday 15
February
7.30pm
Civic Theatre, Chelmsford, CM1 1JG
Box Office: 01245 606505
Chelmsford.gov.uk/theatres
INGATESTONE HALL
Hall Lane, Ingatestone,
Essex CM4 9NR
(off the London end of Ingatestone High St.)
16th Century manor house & grounds with a wealth of history.
OPEN TO
THE PUBLIC
Sunday, Wednesday and
Bank Holiday afternoons
(Noon – 5 p.m.) from Easter
until the end of September
Adults - £7
Concessions - £6
Children (over 5) - £3
Guided tours for groups or schools also
available at any time outside normal opening
hours by prior arrangement.
The House and/or Gardens are also
available for hire for public or private
events such as weddings, concerts,
exhibitions or corporate events
Tel. 01277 353010
Email: house@ingatestonehall.co.uk
Website: www.ingatestonehall.com

Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea,
SS0 7RA 01702 351135
www.southendtheatres.org.uk
17-Jan The Classic Rock Show
‘The Classic Rock Show’ brings the
original recordings back to life on
stage; with a huge sound and light
show to match. Palace Theatre,
430 London Road, Westcliff-on-Sea,
SS0 9LA. 01702 351135.
www.southendtheatres.org.uk
18-Jan Back To Bacharach
The production features four of the
finest West End Vocalists accompanied
by The Magic Moments
Orchestra (100% live) recreating Burt
Bacharach’s timeless hits. Palace
Theatre, 430 London Road, Westcliffon-Sea,
SS0 9LA. 01702 351135.
www.southendtheatres.org.uk
18-Jan Real Diamond
Diamond fans undoubtedly all have
their favourite songs...and these
will also be in this performance
starring John Hylton, but the
principal content is the complete
Jazz Singer album. Civic Theatre,
Duke Street, Chelmsford, CM1 1JG
01245 606505.
www.chelmsford.gov.uk
24-Jan Nathan Carter: Born For
The Road
Nathan performs an array of original
songs and covers which show the
tone and range of his vocal ability
which, on occasion emotes clearly
his own passion for the songs and
what being Irish means to him.
The Harlow Playhouse, Playhouse
Square, Harlow, CM20 1LS. 01279
431945. www.playhouseharlow.com
25-Jan Wilson & Wakeman
They’ll play songs from their individual
back catalogues and artists they
have worked with, along with tracks
from their joint albums, intertwined
with stories and memories from their
extensive touring careers in a show
not to be missed. Cramphorn Studio
Duke Street, Chelmsford, CM1 1JG
01245 606505.
www.chelmsford.gov.uk
26-Jan Jackson Live in Concert
‘Jackson Live in Concert’ now
features the hugely talented ‘CJ’
recreating the Michael Jackson
experience with his stunning
rendition of all his favourite songs.
Braintree Arts Theatre, Notley Road,
Braintree, CM7 1WY. 01376 556 354
www.braintreeartstheatre.com
ARTS & CULTURE
Until 17 Jan Paloma Proudfoot |
Metropolitan Wares
Proudfoot works in sculpture,
ceramics, site specific installation,
performance and clothes-making.
Alongside this exhibition,
the Hideaway Gallery will exhibit
work produced by school
students in artist-run education
workshops. Gibberd Gallery,
Civic Centre, The Water Gardens,
Harlow, CM20 1WG. 01279 446404.
www.gibberdgallery.co.uk
Until 3 Feb Collections Recrafted
at Saffron Walden Museum
A display by the Eastern Region
Textile Forum, of creative textiles
inspired by the Museum’s collections.
Museum Street, Saffron
Walden, CB10 1JL. 01799 510333
www.saffronwaldenmuseum.org
14-27 Jan Terry Whittle
Terry has been painting for about 20
years. He is largely self-taught and
works mainly with watercolours, with
occasional excursions into acrylics
& gouache. Queens Theatre, Billet
Lane, Hornchurch RM11 1QT.
www.queens-theatre.co.uk
19-Jan Theory Opera | Sharing
Stories: with author Shrabani
Basu
This closing event that sets out to
discover the personal stories of
soldiers and others during the First
World War. Presented by Shrabani
Basu – author of ‘Victoria & Abdul:
The True Story Of The Queen’s
Closest Confidant’, the inspiration
behind the movie starring Dame
Judi Dench and Bollywood star Ali
Fazal. Firstsite, Lewis Gardens, High
Street, Colchester, CO1 1JH
www.firstsite.uk
SPECIAL EVENTS
Every Tuesday until 19 Feb
Tuesday Tea & Toast
Everyone is back to the school
run rush and work, so once you’ve
dashed out of the door why not take
five? The ‘Tuesday Tea and Toast’
session is the perfect place to take
five to read a newspaper or grab
a book - they will even keep the
children entertained. The Vintage
Rose, 32 Quest Place, Maldon,
CM9 5AG. 07804 406561
12-Jan Photography Workshops
An in-depth look at exposure and
how light affects your images,
manual mode - how and when to
use it, how changing perspective
can dramatically change your shots
and how to take good photographs
in low light and other difficult conditions.
Hylands House, Hylands Park,
London Road, Chelmsford, CM2
8WQ. 07900 926187. www.
goingdigital.co.uk/photography-courses-in/east-anglia
12 & 22 Jan Farm Open Day at
Lauriston Farm
This is a great opportunity to learn
more about biodynamic farming,
the work the farm does and how
becoming a shareholder can help
expand the farm’s amazing work
creating a sustainable future.
Goldhanger, CM9 8AH
www.lauristonfarm.co.uk
26-Jan Burns’ Night Supper at
Wivenhoe House Hotel
A warm welcome from the piper
awaits you in the main house. Before
enjoying a four course feast of traditional
Scottish fare and traditional
ceremonies. £44.50 per person.
Wivenhoe Park, Colchester,
CO4 3SQ. 01206 863666
www.wivenhoehouse.co.uk/burnsnight-supper
AUCTIONS & ANTIQUES
13-Jan Essex Antiques &
Collectables Fair
Items such as stamps, ephemera,
militaria, china, glass, figurines,
pottery, coins, and lots more. Open:
9.30am - 3.30pm. Admission £1.
Ingatestone Community Centre, 7
High Street, Ingatestone, CM4 9ED
27-Jan Chigwell Antiques &
Vintage & Collectors Fair
There will be a huge selection of
items for sale covering antiques,
vintage, retro and collectables.
Open: 9am - 4pm. early entry £3.50.
Chigwell Hall, High Road
Chigwell, IG7 6BD
eastlife.co.uk 115

New for 2019
Opening in April 2019, the Heritage Farm will
include a purpose-built barn, to provide an
under-cover space for activities and displays
for families, schools, adults and groups, as well
as protection for a number of large objects in
the museum collection.
Additionally, the planting of an orchard,
improvements to pathways and the expansion
of the animal area to care for more heritage
breeds make this a must-see for 2019.
StowBlues
Saturday 8 June
23rd Festival of Beer & Brewing
Thursday 4 - Sunday 7 July
Outdoor Cinema
Friday 23 and Saturday 24 August
Cider and Song
Friday 18 and Saturday 19 October
Bonfire Night Celebrations
Saturday 2 November
Santa at Home
Weekends 23 November - 22 December
For details, plus more activities visit
www.eastanglianlife.org.uk
Events at the
museum 2019
Dates for
the diary!

Suffolk
5 Reasons to Visit
Stowmarket
Written by The Suffolk Spy
Instagram @thesuffolkspy
Although the largest town in mid-Suffolk,
Stowmarket is often overlooked as an area
to visit in the county. The Suffolk Spy shares her
five reasons to visit the market town:
1. The Regal
Built in 1936, this cinema and theatre has been at the
heart of Stowmarket for many years and is known for
its relaxed atmosphere. Sit back and relax with your
favourite tipple from the bar and enjoy one of the latest
blockbusters or a wonderful theatre production in this
charming institution.
2. Fitness
EnsoFit, based in Stowupland, is a brand new personal
training studio offering personal training and small
group classes. The classes offered are slightly niche but
currently very popular in the fitness industry including
Animal Flow and MyZone HIIT. Classes can be booked on
a pay as you go basis at www.ensofit.co.uk.
Taught from a converted garage in the heart of
Stowmarket, Yoga with Imelda offers a variety of small
group yoga classes within a private studio. Classes are £5
each and can be booked via www.yogawithimelda.com.
3. Mid Suffolk Light Railway
Restored by enthusiasts, the museum and railway at
Brockford Station has recreated a slice of Edwardian
railway travel. Check the events programme, hop on
board one of the steam trains and ride along Suffolk’s
only standard gauge preserved railway. Entry is £10 for
an adult or £4 for a child.
Bella Art
4. Finbows Yard, Bacton
Full of independent local Suffolk businesses, it is easy to
spend time meandering around Finbows Yard. Book an
appointment and appreciate the wonderful artwork and
home accessories by Suffolk artist, Lucy Dawson, at Bella
Art’s Studio.
If you’re feeling thirsty, call in at Heart of Suffolk Distillery
and purchase some locally distilled premium gin or
alternatively, join the team for one of their gin tasting
evenings which can be booked online at
www.heartofsuffolkdistillery.co.uk. Finish your visit by
popping over the road to EmZo Café and then peruse
the crafts, jewellery and furniture in the attached shop.
5. Eating out
Food wise there is a great variety of options for eating
out. Slightly hidden off the High Street but well worth the
visit is Cabbages and Kings at the Mix, which serves up
reasonably priced breakfasts with 100% of their profits
being invested in delivering youth work. For a special
occasion, head to The Buxhall Crown for a fantastic meal
using fresh seasonal ingredients.
eastlife.co.uk 117

Nick Cunard (rspb-images.com). The RSPB is a registered charity in England & Wales 207076, in Scotland SC037654 851-1392-15-16
Book your Perfect Suffolk Escape
“Ideally located to explore Suffolk’s heritage coast”
4 Star Luxury Cottages and Studios
& Caravan and Motorhome Club CL
We supply a large range of high quality outdoor
apparel and footwear, as well as a full range of
branded hunting, fishing and shooting
equipment and accessories.
Mollett’s Farm, Main Road, Benhall,
Saxmundham, Suffolk IP17 1JY
Tel: +44 1728 604547
www.molletts.com bookings@molletts.com
3a & 3b Wilfred Bridge Rd, Melton, Woodbridge IP12 1RB
Tel: 01394 385567 Fax: 01394 387757
www.stuartsoutdoor.com
Minsmere
It’s naturally fun
for everyone!
Start exploring rspb.org.uk/discoverminsmere
/RSPBSuffolk
/RSPBMinsmere
RSPB Minsmere nature reserve, Suffolk coast.

A Pocket Guide to
Saxmundham
Written by Suzanne Archer
Saxmundham is a beautiful market town
located in the heart of Suffolk. A bustling
town with access via road and railway, it is
a great place to visit, be it for a day trip or
weekend getaway. It’s the perfect location for
exploring rural Suffolk.
Having once hosted the Suffolk Show, it is also the place
to find out about times gone by in the county with its
local museum. The museum works to record and preserve
the history of the town and the IP17 area. Discover its
past with an interactive media display featuring photos,
videos and recordings.
The town has a market every Wednesday so is a great
place to stock up on the essentials and fresh local
produce. The high street is full of independent stores so
you can shop until you drop then refuel at a café such as
Trinity’s at No.14. If you are looking for something more
substantial why not try The Bell Inn at Sax or have some
of the best fish and chips around at Trawler’s Catch.
Saxmundham is also close to RSPB Minsmere if you
want to get out into the countryside and see some local
wildlife. For fresh air, this is the place to go! If gardens
are more your thing visit The Walled Garden just outside
the town. This garden has been around since the 1800s
and is beautifully laid out, full of sculptures and a lovely
lily pond. It is definitely worth a visit, especially as it is
combined with a nursery meaning that you can buy the
plants that have inspired you.
If you are looking for excitement and a bit of a challenge
why not visit the Suffolk Escape Room? This Area 51
inspired space will have the intrepid UFO hunter in you
breaking into the infamous area, where you will have one
hour to crack it before the security override kicks in. You
have to work as a team to figure out the clues. This is a
great group activity as well as a challenge to the brain.
With all this to do in Saxmundham, it is a must visit this
year.
eastlife.co.uk 119

Looking for quality care?
All Hallows has a 145 year history of providing the best possible care
to the local community and offers a wide range of services, including:
Registered Charity No. 1124717
Nursing Home
• 24 Hour Nursing Care
• Convalescent Care
• Respite Care
Community Hospital
• Respite Care
• Specialist Care
• End of Life / Palliative Care
Homecare
• Personal Care
• Befriending
• Meals on Wheels
• Care in your own Home
OUR CORE
SERVICES
Therapy Services
• Physiotherapy
• Exercise Classes
• Sports Injury Rehab
• Occupational Therapy
Daycare
Neurological Services
• Reduces Isolation & Loneliness
• Entertainment & Activities
• Bathing Service
To enquire about our services:
There are few parts of East Anglia where
such an integrated service is available
• Neuro-rehabilitation
• Therapy Programmes
• Long & Short Term Care
Call 01986 892728 Email info@all-hallows.org.uk Website www.all-hallows.org.uk
Beccles Sewing
& Handicrafts
DRESSMAKING & CRAFT FABRICS
HABERDASERY & CRAFT REQUIREMENTS
SEWING MACHINES REPAIRS & SALES
Authorised dealer for: JUKI, JANOME, BROTHER,
BABYLOCK, PFAFF, BRITANNIA,
SINGER & JAGUAR
Now in store the New Brother
Innov-IS VR machine
Plus Much More...
Offering a warm welcome, with a menu
which has a focus on local produce.
Barista style coffee now available.
We also cater for functions and events.
15A Blyburgate, Beccles, Suffolk NR34 9TB
Telephone 01502 714234
01284 748732
www.stedscathedral.org

What’s on: Suffolk
THEATRE, FILM AND SHOWS
7-10 Jan Film: Fantastic Beasts -
The Crimes of Grindelwald
‘Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes Of
Grindelwald’ sees the powerful dark
wizard having escaped custody,
and in the process of gathering his
followers. Marina Theatre,
The Marina, Lowestoft, NR32 1HH
01502 533200.
www.marinatheatre.co.uk
15-Jan The Tragedy of King Richard
the Second
This visceral new production about
the limits of power will be directed
by Joe Hill Gibbins, whose previous
plays include ‘Little Revolution at the
Almeida’ and ‘Absolute Hell at the
National Theatre’. The Cut, New Cut,
Halesworth, IP19 8BY. 0300 3033 211.
newcut.org
17-Jan An Evening with Ipswich
Town Football Club Legends
The Ipswich Town legends return
to Theatre Royal Bury St Edmunds
for another lively and unmissable
evening of stories and anecdotes
about the club and their careers. It
welcomes ITFC’s Matt Holland to
the theatre for the very first time.
Theatre Royal, Westgate Street,
Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1QR. 01284
769505. www.theatreroyal.org
19-27 Jan The Lowestoft Players –
Robin Hood
This fast moving comedy pantomime
with toe-tapping music, stunning
scenery and costumes, special
effects, hilarious slapstick comedy
and plenty of audience participation
will entertain and enchant everyone.
Marina Theatre, The Marina,
Lowestoft, NR32 1HH. 01502 533200
www.marinatheatre.co.uk
19-Jan The Empty Stage
Rising star Carina Harris was
murdered during an unscheduled
rehearsal for an upcoming play. Now
it’s up to the director of the show to
determine which of his temperamental
cast members is dramatic enough
to be a killer! The Seagull, 19-75
Morton Road, Lowestoft, NR33 0JH
01502 589726. www.theseagull.co.uk
22-23 Jan Film: The Children Act
‘The Children Act’ tells the story of
a judge who is asked to rule on the
case of a young boy, suffering from
cancer, whose parents won’t allow a
blood transfusion. Marina Theatre,
The Marina, Lowestoft, NR32 1HH
01502 533200.
www.marinatheatre.co.uk
24-Jan Sick
‘Sick’ is a bittersweet, bizarre
and highly entertaining hour-long
one-woman show about the impact
of four years of cuts to the National
Health Service. The Seagull, 19-75
Morton Road, Lowestoft, NR33 0JH
01502 589726. www.theseagull.co.uk
25-Jan Lowestoft 1944 – The
Turning of the Tide
Local historians Chris Brooks and
Bob Collis have again joined forces
to deliver a fascinating insight into
how the penultimate year of the war
affected Lowestoft. The Seagull,
19-75 Morton Road, Lowestoft,
NR33 0JH. 01502 589726
www.theseagull.co.uk
19-26 Jan Aladdin
An evil emperor rules over the
people of China with a firm but
outrageously silly rule and so a young
lad must help the people of Xi’an
dethrone him. Watch as Aladdin, a
simple working boy, joins forces with
the emperor’s most trusted advisor
and a couple of wish granting marvels
to take down the emperor. A magical
night of intrigue, laughter and love
is guaranteed for all. Haverhill Arts
Centre, High Street, Haverhill,
CB9 8AR. 01440 714140
www.haverhillartscentre.co.uk
22-Jan The Queen of Spades
Tchaikovsky’s most ambitious opera
receives star treatment in Stefan
Herheim’s staging, with a cast
including Eva-Maria Westbroek,
Felicity Palmer and Aleksandrs
Antonenko. Haverhill Arts Centre,
High Street, Haverhill , CB9 8AR.
01440 714140
www.haverhillartscentre.co.uk
26-Jan Nish Kumar - It’s in Your
Nature To Destroy Yourselves
There will be jokes about politics,
mankind’s capacity for self-destruction,
and if this will lead to the end
of days. Ipswich Regent Theatre, 3
Saint Helen’s Street, Ipswich, IP4 1HE.
01473 433100
30 Jan - 6 Feb The Wisdom Club
When Susanna tells her Mother she
no longer wants her to look after
the children, Megan can’t help but
feel out of a job. If she’s not being a
mother or a grandmother, then who
and what is she? If retired brewery
worker, Lenny knew his retirement
was going to be so long he would
have started another career. Ex
hospital worker Rani is on a mission;
the friends need to protest and step
out of the shadows. They’re old but
they’re not dead yet! Theatre Royal,
Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds,
IP33 1QR. 01284 769505
www.theatreroyal.org
31-Jan I’m Not Running
Pauline Gibson has spent her life
as a doctor, the inspiring leader of
a local health campaign. When she
crosses paths with her old boyfriend,
a stalwart loyalist in Labour Party
politics, she’s faced with an agonising
decision. Live broadcast. Haverhill
Arts Centre, High Street, Haverhill,
CB9 8AR. 01440 714140
www.haverhillartscentre.co.uk
31-Jan It’s a Knockout
Learn about two vital areas of medical
science: anaesthesia; past, present &
future, together with oxygen therapy
or hyperbaric medicine. The Cut,
New Cut, Halesworth, IP19 8BY.
0300 3033 211. newcut.org
MUSIC
11-Jan Los Pacaminos feat. Paul
Young
This is a tequila fuelled tex mex party
night, as The Apex becomes the
perfect cantina setting for a great
night’s rocking with the cactus sharp,
tequila filled, stetson wearing magnificent
7, Los Pacaminos! The Apex,
1 Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds,
IP33 3FD. 01284 758000
www.theapex.co.uk
eastlife.co.uk 121

New Year,
New Sport
Situated in 120 acres of woodland and delightful
countryside High Lodge offers a range of leisure activities,
try a new sport this year. Something for all the family to
enjoy, a perfect place to escape, relax and unwind.
Luxury Self-catering Accommodation in eight
Converted Barns on a working Arable and Dairy Farm.
We are situated in the beautiful peaceful
rural Waveney Valley adjoining the southern
tip of the Norfolk Broads.
Many fantastic sandy beaches and attractions can
be found a short distance from Wheatacre Hall Barns
making this a great place to base your visit in your
discovery of Norfolk and Suffolk. Facilities include,
Games Barn, Fitness Barn, Soft Play Barn and Hot Tub
and plenty of outdoor space for fun and games.
Clay Shooting | Footgolf | Archery | Golf
Find out more
01986 784347 | www.highlodge.co.uk
High Lodge Leisure Ltd HighLodgeSS High_Lodge_Leisure_Ltd
Contact Joanna Burroughs on 01502 677208
Wheatacre Hall Barns, Wheatacre, Beccles, NR34 0AS
www.wheatacrehallbarns.co.uk

12-Jan Trianon - Diamonds are
Forever
A sparkling programme to start
the New Year, with music from
film and television and including
two premieres to celebrate the
beginning of Trianon’s Diamond
Jubilee year. Grand Hall, The Corn
Exchange, King St, Ipswich IP1 1DH.
apps.ipswich.gov.uk
18-Jan Yesterday Once More –
A Tribute to the Carpenters
If you are an avid Carpenters fan, this
is a show not to be missed!
The Seagull, 19-75 Morton Road,
Lowestoft, NR33 0JH. 01502 589726
www.theseagull.co.uk
18-Jan The Chicago Blues Brothers
The show is a high-octane, adrenaline-pumping,
musical mash-up
which has jump-started the legacy
of Jake and Elwood for a new
generation with its modern twist on
this cult classic and an energy and
spirit that is impossible to resist.
The Apex, 1 Charter Square, Bury St
Edmunds, IP33 3FD. 01284 758000
www.theapex.co.uk
19-Jan The Searchers
There is no doubt that the swinging
60s was a very special time and will
go down in history as being the most
imaginative period of music creativity
and expression. The Apex, 1 Charter
Square, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 3FD
01284 758000. www.theapex.co.uk
24-Jan The Simon & Garfunkel
Story
Using huge projection photos and
original film footage, this show
features a full live band. The Apex,
1 Charter Square, Bury St Edmunds,
IP33 3FD. 01284 758000
www.theapex.co.uk
26-Jan An Evening with Dolly Parton
& Glen Campbell
This foot stomping, clap-along, interactive
show is guaranteed to enthrall
the audience from start to finish.
The Seagull, 19-75 Morton Road,
Lowestoft, NR33 0JH. 01502 589726.
www.theseagull.co.uk
26-Jan Alden Patterson & Dashwood
Norwich based folk trio Alden
Patterson and Dashwood weave rich
vocal harmonies, fiddle, dobro and
guitar around beautifully written
original songs and melodies. The Cut,
New Cut, Halesworth, IP19 8BY.
0300 3033 211. newcut.org
29 Jan Ramin Karimloo: From Now
On
Ramin’s unique style of revisiting celebrated
songs from musical theatre
in a sublime folk style has won him
an army of fans around the world.
The Apex, 1 Charter Square, Bury St
Edmunds, IP33 3FD. 01284 758000
www.theapex.co.uk
ARTS & CULTURE
7-11 Jan Exploring and Painting
Winter Gardens
A fantastic opportunity to explore
some of the best public gardens
around Suffolk and Essex through
drawing and painting en plein air
and back at the Flatford studio. FSC
Flatford Mill, East Bergholt, CO7 6UL.
01206 297110
9-Jan Curator’s Introduction to
Women 100
To mark the 100-year anniversary of
the Representation of the People Act,
which first gave women of property
over 30 the right to vote, the gallery
are showing 100 artworks by women
from the Ipswich collections.
Ipswich Art Gallery, 1 Upper High
Street, Ipswich, IP1 3NE.
01473 433681.
15 Jan - 24 Feb Royal Photographic
Society
The RPS’s Nature Group will present
a variety of subjects that represent
members’ interests, including
animals, flowers and landscapes.
The Apex, 1 Charter Square, Bury St
Edmunds, IP33 3FD. 01284 758000
www.theapex.co.uk
16-Jan Art Classes in Bury St
Edmunds
During this afternoon demonstration
artist/tutor Eddie Goodridge,
will give you an insight into how to
approach oil painting. Town Centre,
Bury St. Edmunds. 07824637174.
lilaccottagestudio.com
17-Jan Surrealism
Looking at the huge importance of
the female psyche in the Surrealist
movement and a great number of
high-achieving women artists who
were both muses and highly imaginative
innovators, such as Leonora
Carrington, Remedios Varo, Dora
Maar and Frida Kahlo. The Cut,
New Cut, Halesworth, IP19 8BY.
0300 3033 211. newcut.org
18-Jan 2019 Festival Preview
Roger Wright and Dan Whitfield
present a preview of the 72nd
Aldeburgh Festival this summer (7–23
June). The Quay Gallery, Next to the
River Alde, Snape Maltings, Snape,
IP17 1SP. snapemaltings.co.uk
SPECIAL EVENTS
6-Jan The Apex Wedding Fair
A spacious and modern setting in
which you can chat with wedding
experts about your plans for the day,
grab some lunch at the cafe, listen
to live music, see demonstrations,
enter exclusive competitions and get
inspired! The Apex, 1 Charter Square,
Bury St Edmunds, IP33 3FD. 01284
758000. www.theapex.co.uk
8, 15, 22 & 29 Jan Tuesday Winter
Wildlife Wander
Discover what makes Minsmere such
a special place to visit in winter as the
guides show you some of the wildlife
and historical highlights.
RSPB Minsmere Nature Reserve,
Westleton, Saxmundham, IP17 3BY.
01728 648301
ANTIQUES AND AUCTIONS
6-Jan Suffolk The Famous Copdock
Antiques & Collectors Fair
Dealers from Suffolk, Norfolk,
Essex and beyond will be selling
a wide range of fascinating items.
Admission £2. Seniors & Students
£1.50. Accompanied Children under
14 admitted free. The Best Wesern
Ipswich Hotel (Formerly the Cameo),
Old Ipswich Road, Copdock, IP8 3JD
26-27 Jan Long Melford Antiques
and Vintage Fair
A monthly two-day antiques and
vintage fair featuring 50 tables selling
antiques, jewellery, ceramics, collectables,
militaria, vintage clothing etc.
Entry £1. Open 9.3oam - 4pm.
The Old School, Hall Street,
Long Melford, CO10 9DX
eastlife.co.uk 123

OPEN EVERY
DAY OF THE
YEAR from
10.00am
The place to visit
Group bookings call: 01493 369477
or email: mail@thrigbyhall.co.uk
Sheringham Cottages 1-4 Jan18.qxp_1/4 PORTRAIT GRID 11/12/2017 16:34 Page 1
THRIGBY HALL FILBY GREAT YARMOUTH
NR29 3DR
% 01493 369477
www.thrigbyhall.co.uk
Relax on the North Norfolk C oast
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Local family run business
Six delightful 4 star / families welcome graded holiday
properties sleeping from 2 to 15 in Sheringham
Foresters, Augusta & Madge are all rated suitable for
wheelchair users by Visit England, as well as being
great for families
Superb quiet location. Blue flag beach, shops, family
pubs, theatre and 18-hole golf course all within 200
metres
Free use of local leisure centre, inc. swim and gym,
Sky TV, sports and movies, Wi-fi, gardens and off
road parking
Free pick up from Sheringham train & bus station
Call: 01263 577 560
Web: www.sheringhamcottages.com
Email: enquiries@sheringhamcottages.com

SECRET
Norfolk
Norfolk
Life in a Fine County
Ancestors coffee
Written by Nicole Ranaweera
Another New Year, another New Year’s
resolution. But maybe this year you can
make your resolution one that helps our planet
and your health? As Veganuary gets underway,
why not give a plant-based diet a try this
January with a little help from your eastlife
friends…
January 2019 marks my one year veganniversary (yes that
is a word!), and what a year its been. Yes, I miss cheese
and yes, eating out can be tricky. Despite this though, I
can honestly say this was one of the best choices I’ve ever
made. Once you’ve got your head around the ins and
outs, the dos and don’ts and the what’s and what nots, it
becomes an eye opening experience. You quickly learn
to find the accidentally vegan treats (like hobnobs and
oreos), good places to eat and where to avoid.
To help get you started, I’ve put together just a few of my
favourite places for Vegan food in Norwich…
1) Timberhill Bakery – Great for breakfast, lunch or just a
coffee with friends. Plus all their cakes are vegan!
www.timberhillbakery.com
2) River Green Café – Great for Sunday roasts or a
special meal out. www.rivergreencafe.co.uk
3) The Tipsy Vegan – Great for comfort vegan food and
cocktails! www.thetipsyvegan.co.uk
4) Ancestors – Great for coffee and cake, breakfast and
lunch. www.instagram.com/ancestorscoffee
5) Tofeuri – Great to grab lunch or cake on the go!
www.tofurei.co.uk
Finally, you can’t go wrong with a trip to Little Shop of
Vegans (www.littleshopofvegans.com) on Magdalen
Street, Norwich. Stocking only vegan products this is a
great place to go to stock up on vegan replacements for
foods you might miss – think chocolate, cheese, cream,
meat alternatives and even marshmallows!
Join our Vegetarian and Vegan Facebook Group…
When it comes to making big dietary changes, support
from others goes a long way. From understanding your
choices to sharing recipes and recommending the best
places to eat, these pointers go a long way in helping you
succeed. Come join our Facebook group today and help
spread the plant-based love across East Anglia:
www.facebook.com/groups/Veggieandvegan
eastlife.co.uk 125

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athrooms, Shower Rooms & Wetrooms
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itchen Design & Planning
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upply Only or Supply and Installation
ver 30 Years Combined Experience
Opening Times
Monday - Friday: 8am - 5pm
Saturday: 9am - 3pm | Sunday: CLOSED
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Jan East Life_Layout 1 19/12/2018 15:56 Page 1
cept House, Roundtree Way, Norwich, NR7 8SH
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■ Kitchen ■ Kitchen Design Design & Planning & Planning
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Monday - Friday: 8am - 5pm
Saturday: Monday 9am - 3pm - Friday: | Sunday: 8am CLOSED - 5pm
Saturday: 9am - 3pm | Sunday: CLOSED
01603 787578
Concept House, Roundtree Way, Norwich, NR7 8SH
www.conceptnorwich.co.uk
The Cliftonville Hotel, Cromer
All Day Coffee Shop and Bar
Ladies who Lunch
are invited to enjoy a free arrival drink.
Choose from our House Wines,
Soft Drinks, Beers, Tea or Coffee.
Simply bring along this advertisement and
present it to your server when ordering*
For more information or to book
01263 512543
reservations@cliftonvillehotel.co.uk
Cliftonville Hotel, Seafront, Cromer, Norfolk NR27 9AS
@TheCliftonville www.facebook.com/cliftonvillehotel
*Offer applies to two people when ordering two main meals. Available from 3rd January until 31st March Mondays to Fridays. Can not be used in conjunction with any other offer - ELJan

What’s on: Norfolk
THEATRE, FILM AND SHOWS
12 Dec - 13 Jan Aladdin
The show is set in the Far East and
promises dazzling costumes, a
stunning set, mischievous fun, and
entertainment for all the family.
Book now. Norwich Theatre Royal,
Theatre Street, Norwich, NR2 1RL.
01603 630000
www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk
10-13 Jan Cinderella
This classic panto is sure to delight
audiences young and old with all the
traditional ingredients of song, dance
and comedy, mixed together with the
age old story of rags to riches known
the world over. Gorleston Pavilion
Theatre, Pier Gardens, Gorleston-on-
Sea, NR31 6PP. 01493 662832
gorlestonpavilion.ticketsolve.com
10-Jan Comedy Club
The winning format of four comedians
in a relaxed cabaret setting, and
value for money ticket price mean
that the comedy clubs regularly sell
out. King’s Lynn Corn Exchange,
Tuesday Market Place, King’s Lynn,
PE30 1JW. 01553 764864
www.kingslynncornexchange.co.uk
16-Jan Sick
‘Sick’ is a bittersweet, bizarre
and highly entertaining hour-long
one-woman show about the impact
of four years of cuts to the National
Health Service. Norwich Arts Centre,
St. Benedict’s Street, Norwich,
NR2 4PG. 01603 660352
norwichartscentre.co.uk
16-Jan Jim Davidson
The people’s favourite and one of
Britain’s greatest ever comedians,
Jim Davidson OBE telling it ‘like it is’.
King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, Tuesday
Market Place, King’s Lynn, PE30 1JW
01553 764864
www.kingslynncornexchange.co.uk
17-18 Jan Jason Manford: Muddle
Class
‘Muddle Class’ promises to feature a
wealth of new material about Jason
growing up ‘working class’ then finding,
over the years, that part of him
has become ‘middle class’ - causing
much confusion! Norwich Theatre
Royal, Theatre Street, Norwich,
NR2 1RL. 01603 630000
www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk
22-26 Jan Guys & Dolls
With some of the best show tunes
ever, including Luck Be a Lady
Tonight, Sit Down You’re Rocking the
Boat and I’ve Never Been In Love
Before, it’s a sure bet that you will
leave the theatre with a smile on your
face and a song in your heart. Norwich
Theatre Royal, Theatre Street,
Norwich, NR2 1RL. 01603 630000
www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk
22-Jan ROH Live Screening –
The Queen Of Spades
The penniless soldier Gherman has
fallen in love with Liza, even though
she is engaged to his friend Yeletsky.
Gherman learns that Liza’s guardian
the Countess knows a winning threecard
formula. Gherman determines to
wrest the secret from the Countess,
gain a fortune through gambling and
marry Liza. Sheringham Little Theatre,
2 Station Road, Sheringham,
NR26 8RE. 01263 822347
www.sheringhamlittletheatre.com
24-Jan Antony & Cleopatra - NTL
Broadcast live from the National
Theatre, Ralph Fiennes and Sophie
Okonedo play Shakespeare’s famous
fated couple in his great tragedy of
politics, passion and power. Princess
Theatre, 13 The Green, Hunstanton,
PE36 5AH. 01485 532252
www.princesshunstanton.co.uk
24-Jan The Chicago Blues
Brothers
The show is a high-octane, adrenaline-pumping
musical mash-up
which has jump started the legacy
of Jake and Elwood for a new
generation with its modern twist on
this cult classic and an energy and
spirit that is impossible to resist.
King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, Tuesday
Market Place, King’s Lynn, PE30
1JW. 01553 764864. www.kingslynncornexchange.co.uk
26-Jan OMG
Be prepared to have your mind
truly blown. An evening that you will
never forget. Magic performed live
- no camera tricks, no stooges just
mind-melting magic of the highest order
from Magic Circle Magician, Sean
Goodman. Norwich Puppet Theatre,
St James, Whitefriars, Norwich,
NR3 1TN. 01603 629921
www.puppettheatre.co.uk
26-Jan Intellectual Hooligans
The show will consist of “Whose
Line Is It Anyway?” style games
based entirely on audience suggestions.
Anything goes (and we mean
anything!) Maddermarket Theatre,
St Johns Alley, Norwich, NR2 1DR
01603 620917
www.maddermarket.co.uk
29 Jan - 2 Feb RSC Romeo & Juliet
Ripped apart by the bitter divisions
of their parents, two young people
will risk everything to be together.
The most famous story of love at first
sight explodes with intense passion
and an irresistible desire for change.
Will this spark a revolution, or will
division continue to tear through generations?
Norwich Theatre Royal,
Theatre Street, Norwich, NR2 1RL
01603 630000
www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk
30-Jan ROH Live Screening –
La Traviata
Richard Eyre’s stunning production of
Verdi’s best-loved opera returns with
star sopranos Ermonela Jaho and
Angel Blue as Violetta; the casts also
include Plácido Domingo and Charles
Castronovo. Sheringham Little
Theatre, 2 Station Road, Sheringham,
NR26 8RE. 01263 822347
www.sheringhamlittletheatre.com
31-Jan NT Live: I’m Not Running
When doctor Pauline Gibson crosses
paths with her old boyfriend, a
stalwart loyalist in Labour Party
politics, she’s faced with an agonising
decision. Westacre Theatre,
River Road, Westacre, PE32 1UD
01760 755800
www.westacretheatre.com
31-Jan Edit your life with Anna
Newton and Erica Davies
eastlife.co.uk 127

A 24 hour live-in Care Service as
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Call Able Care on 01603 624135
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Sackville Place, 44/48 Magdalan Street, Norwich NR3 1JU
Roller Garage Doors Up & Over Garage Doors Sectional Garage Doors Side Sliding Doors Entrance Doors
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Sweetbriar Industrial Estate,
Norwich, Norfolk, NR3 2BS.
T: 01603 410304 F: 01603 405090
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Est. 1965
Blinds & Doors
All types of Garage Doors supplied and installed. Whether you
require it standard or purpose made, for any application,
we have got the door for you.
We have been established for over 50 years and are renowned in
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of service and an extensive range of high quality products.
Showroom Open: Monday to Friday 8am - 5pm & Saturday 8.30am - 12.30pm
Dock Shelters Acoustic Doors Curtains Partitions Galebreakers
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THE MOST FAMOUS BAGPIPE
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20 BANK PLAIN, NR2 4SF
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Come to Jarrolds on Thursday 31st
Jan at 7pm, enjoy a Norfolk Gin cocktail
and hear from Anna and Erica
how you can live your best life. There
will be Q&A and you’ll have your
book signed by Anna and meet Erica.
Benji’s Restaurant, floor 1, Jarrolds,
Norwich. 01603 660661.
www.jarrold.co.uk
MUSIC
8-Jan A Vision of Elvis
On the very day that would have
been The King’s 84th birthday, join
Rob Kingsley in this outstanding tribute
to Elvis Presley. Norwich Theatre
Royal, Theatre Street , Norwich,
NR2 1RL. 01603 630000
www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk
12-Jan A Band Called Malice
Rapidly becoming the UK’s most
popular tribute to The Jam, you are
guaranteed to be taken right back
to the late 70s/early 80s as the band
recreates hit after hit of The Jam,
one of the most influential and iconic
bands in music history. Norwich Arts
Centre, St. Benedict’s Street, Norwich
NR2 4PG. 01603 660352
norwichartscentre.co.uk
18-Jan Gameplan
A five-piece indie rock band from
Norwich. Gameplan have recently
been enjoying playing the London
circuit, headlining venues such as the
O2 Academy, as well as supporting
Toploader at the Islington Assembly
Hall. Now they’re looking to make a
statement on the Norwich scene with
their own material, bringing that live
music buzz to the fine city. Norwich
Arts Centre, St. Benedict’s Street,
Norwich, NR2 4PG. 01603 660352
norwichartscentre.co.uk
25-Jan Voodoo Room
This show is beyond any tribute, its a
celebration of pure power trio class!!
So don’t miss the opportunity to experience
the thrill of this musical ride
as it was back then. Maddermarket
Theatre, St Johns Alley, Norwich,
NR2 1DR. 01603 620917
www.maddermarket.co.uk
29-Jan Gyða Valtýsdottir
Jan/Feb 2019 dates throughout the
UK will finally give Gyda the opportunity
to more widely expose her 2018
figureight release Epicycle project
live with Shazad Ismaily and Julian
Sartorius making the trio. Norwich
Arts Centre, St. Benedict’s Street,
Norwich, NR2 4PG. 01603 660352
norwichartscentre.co.uk
ARTS & CULTURE
1 Dec - 27 Jan Mechanical Circus
This entertaining exhibition marks the
end of our Circus 250 celebrations.
Featuring beautiful mechanical sculpture,
physics games and puzzles there
will never be a dull moment! The
Forum, Millennium Plain, Norwich,
NR2 1TF. 01603 727950
www.theforumnorwich.co.uk
Until 21 April Ken Kiff:
The Sequence
This show focuses on selected works
from the artist’s seminal series ‘The
Sequence’. Begun in the 1970s
and regarded by Kiff as a single
work, ‘The Sequence’ was an ongoing
series of vivid paintings on paper
that explored a consistent set of
themes and images. Sainsbury Centre
for Visual Arts, UEA, Norwich,
NR4 7TJ. scva.ac.uk
12 Jan - 6 Feb Printmakers
A selection of works in print from the
gallery’s many exceptional printmakers.
Bircham Gallery, 14 Market Place,
Holt, NR25 6BW. 01263 713312.
www.birchamgallery.co.uk/exhibitions
28-31 Jan The Palka Diaries
The installation centres on a wooden
shed which could be a sentry box, a
shelter or a shrine. The shed contains
a refugee’s suitcase filled with bark
collected by the Norfolk Polish Heritage
Group in Siberia and a video of
the butterflies they collected there.
The Forum, Millennium Plain,
Norwich, NR2 1TF. 01603 727950.
palkadiaries.com
SPECIAL EVENTS
12-Jan Macrame Workshop
In this two hour workshop you’ll learn
two basic knots before picking your
favourite to make your own hanging
Macrame pot holder. There will be
a range of coloured cord, as well as
tradition neutrals for you to choose
from. Your Macrame will be completely
personalised and unique to
you. Urban Jungle, Ringland Lane,
Old Costessey, Norwich, NR8 5BG
www.urbanjungle.uk.com
13-Jan King’s Lynn Wedding Fair
Over 40 top wedding suppliers who
have everything a couple needs to
help plan their special day, all in the
historic venue. Free entry and free
goody bag for the first 150 Brides!
King’s Lynn Corn Exchange, Tuesday
Market Place, King’s Lynn, PE30 1JW
01553 764864
www.kingslynncornexchange.co.uk
19-Jan Riverford Organic Produce
Day
A seasonal, 100% organic Riverford
veg box, fresh from the farm, will
inspire you in the kitchen and make
you feel good. The Forum, Millennium
Plain, Norwich, NR2 1TF
01603 727950.
www.theforumnorwich.co.uk
19-20 Jan Festival of swans at WWT
Welney Wetland Centre
Enjoy a weekend of swan related
activities including walks, talks and
trails. Hundred Foot Bank, Welney,
Wisbech, PE14 9TN. 01353 860711
27-Jan Norfolk Holiday & Cruise
Show
Come and meet top holiday and
cruise companies, find out about
special offers and join the prize
draw for your chance to win exciting
prizes including a London theatre
break, holiday vouchers and much
more! The Forum, Millennium Plain,
Norwich, NR2 1TF. 01603 727950
www.theforumnorwich.co.uk
ANTIQUES & AUCTIONS
12-Jan The Fleamarket
Offering a wide and varied range of
collectables including old favourites
such as postcards, ephemera, coins,
badges, books, records and classic
toys. There are also traditional small
antiques and for the intrepid bargain
hunter there is always plenty of bric-a
brac to enjoy sifting through. King’s
Lynn Corn Exchange, Tuesday Market
Place, King’s Lynn, PE30 1JW.
01553 764864.
www.kingslynncornexchange.co.uk
26-Jan Antiques, Books & Vintage
Browse the collections and see if you
can find the one-off piece you’ve
been looking for. The Forum,
Millennium Plain, Norwich, NR2 1TF
01603 727950
www.theforumnorwich.co.uk
eastlife.co.uk 129

Celebrations Magazine (May 2017).qxd 06/06/2017 15:48 Page 1
ONE OF HERTFORDSHIRE’S
PREMIER WEDDING VENUES
... where the past and present unite
a choice of historic, traditional and contemporary surroundings, a
range of wonderful rooms accommodating 10 to 200 guests,
picturesque riverside location, beautiful gardens & superb catering
Visit our
Wedding Fayre on
the 3rd February 2019
from 11am until 3.30pm.
High Street, Ware, Hertfordshire SG12 9AL
Tel: 01920 460316 www.warepriory.co.uk
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Hertfordshire’s
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Why We Love
Hertford & Ware
By day you’ll find these two Hertfordshire towns
busy with residents, workers and parents with
young children, strolling the cobbled streets while
shopping and relaxing at one of the many coffee
shops; a quaint market town scene. By night
the bars, pubs and restaurants are an attraction
for locals and residents of surrounding towns,
providing a lively and sophisticated social scene,
not too dissimilar to a city location. Add to this
fantastic transport links and good schools and it’s
no wonder house prices continue to soar in this
part of Hertfordshire.
Whether you’re planning a visit or perhaps thinking of
relocating, here’s everything you need to know:
Hertford
The river, rustic listed buildings steeped in heritage,
shops and cafes, make the town a popular place to live
and visit. Hertford’s weekly market takes place every
Saturday, while the farmers’ market is held on the second
Saturday of every month. Visitors should stop by Hertford
Castle, which host regular exhibitions and events.
Art lovers will adore Hertford’s choice of galleries.
Courtyard Arts is a small but lively community arts centre
on Port Vale. It offers term time art and clay classes for
adults and children alongside a vibrant programme of
changing exhibitions. It also has artists’ studios, a small
cafe and a gift shop show-casing work by local artists.
In addition to the gallery at the Centre, Courtyard also
curates the gallery at Hertford Theatre. If you fancy an
evening of entertainment check out the theatre’s website
for a full programme of productions which include drama,
musicals, comedy, dance and more throughout the year.
Ware
Ware combines a delightful mix of heritage and
modernisation with its busy high street full of old world
charm. Some of the timber framed buildings that stand
along Crib Street have been restored since the 1970s as
part of an ongoing project to keep the town true to its
history. You’ll find a number of independent boutiques
and high street stores. Ware’s main attraction is Ware
Museum, which takes visitors back in time to the ghostly
goings on in the town, and it’s lido, park and river during
summer months.
Surrounded by gorgeous countryside, it’s no surprise
that Ware is home to a number of wedding venues.
Ware Priory is a highly sought after wedding destination.
Situated within seven acres of picturesque riverside
gardens, this Grade I listed building is a monument of
historical interest, carefully restored to be a beautiful
event venue, perfect for weddings and celebrations.
Both towns are ideal places for a day trip, located off the
A10 and close to the M11. There are beautiful spots by
132 Download Our App Today!

Beds, Bucks, Herts
the River Lea, which passes through the towns, to sit, eat
a picnic and take in the peaceful scenery, so don’t forget
your flask and blanket for those sunny days.
Dates for your diary
Hertford and Ware both have a great community spirit
and host regular events for residents and beyond. Here
are 2019 dates to look forward to:
Open air cinema, 23-24 August
It may be a little way off but we highly advise you
book tickets as soon as possible as this is bound to be
a sell-out. This summer Hertford Castle will be showing
screenings of Mamma Mia (23 Aug) and Grease (24 Aug).
With the castle as backdrop, pack your picnic, blanket
and enjoy a movie under the stars. Tickets will be on sale
from March.
Hertford Arts Trail, 6 April – 5 May
The centre piece of the annual Hertford Arts Festival,
the trail is a great opportunity to view work from local
talent. For one month there will be pop up exhibitions at
a number of venues across Hertford including retailers,
bars and cafes.
www.courtyardarts.org.uk/news/hertford-art-trail-2019
Hertford Castle Craft Market & Open Day Part of
the Hertford Arts Festival
Sunday 5 May, 12pm-4pm
To mark the end of the Hertford Arts Festival, Hertford
Castle will open its doors to the public. Visitors are
welcome to explore the Castle Gatehouse and grounds
free of charge. Up to 70 craft stands will exhibit an array
of handmade assortments from jewellery to homeware,
homemade produce to vintage clothing. There will be
live music throughout the day.
Cars at the Castle, 23 June, 12pm-4pm
One for all motoring enthusiasts! The castle lawn will be
displaying a fantastic collection of up to 100 classic and
modern cars.
eastlife.co.uk 133

Make time for the
things that matter
Visit us today and
view our stunning
show apartments
River Lea
West St
Theatre
Sainsbury’s
Hertford
Castle
Hartham
Common
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Hertford
Gascoyne Way
Hertford
Station
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London Rd
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Edward and
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Edward House Sales Office,
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Hertfordshire, SG13 8FQ
Apartments from £299,950 **
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Visit us and receive
a £20 M&S Giftcard*
For more information visit our Sales Office
today or call on 0800 201 4350
www.mccarthyandstone.co.uk
MARKETING SUITE OPEN
DAILY 10.30AM - 5PM
T&Cs *Ts&Cs apply. See www.mccarthyandstone.co.uk/terms-and-conditions/marks-and-spencer-vouchers for full details. **Price correct at time of going to press.
^Move for Free available only for reservations made before 31st January 2019 which legally complete before 28th February 2019. See www.mccarthyandstone.co.uk/
moveforefree for full details. †See www.mccarthyandstone.co.uk/partexchange for full details. Photography indicative only, specification on site may differ.
Speak to a Sales Executive for full details of any offers available. Written details available on request: McCarthy & Stone North London, Prospect Place, 85 Great North
Road, Hatfield, Hertfordshire, AL9 5DA. Your property data was sourced from TwentyCi, to find out more please visit; https://www.twentyci.co.uk/data-privacy-policy/
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What’s on: Beds, Bucks & Herts
THEATRE, FILM AND SHOWS
5 Dec - 5 Jan Jack and the Beanstalk
A lavish spectacle with live musicians
on stage, stunning sets and
costumes, song, dance and slapstick,
performed straight from the heart
by a talented company of new faces
and Palace favourites. Watford
Palace Theatre, 20 Clarendon Road,
Watford, WD17 1JZ. 01923 235455
www.watfordpalacetheatre.co.uk
16-20 Jan Aladdin
The traditonal panto presents the
classic rags to riches tale of Aladdin
and his magic lamp. Join a cast of
colourful characters in this family
friendly show. Hertford Theatre, The
Wash, Hertford, SG14 1PS. 01992
531500. www.hertfordtheatre.com
17-Jan Lee Nelson: Serious Joker
You’ve seen him sneaking into places
he shouldn’t be, now come and see
him where he most definitely should
be: live on stage for a special performance
of his sensational Serious
Joker stand-up show. The Stables,
Stockwell Lane, Milton Keynes,
MK17 8LU. 01908 280800
www.stables.org
19-Jan Sing-a-Long-a The Greatest
Showman
Cheer on Hugh Jackman, lust
after Zac Efron and hiss Rebecca
Ferguson as you experience ‘The
Greatest Showman’ in the greatest
way possible - with lyrics on the
screen so you can join in as loud as
you want. Milton Keynes Theatre,
Marlborough Gate, Milton Keynes,
MK9 3NZ. 0844 8717652
www.atgtickets.com
21-Jan Blue Monday
A combination of post – Christmas
blues, cold dark nights and the
arrival of unpaid credit card bills …
yes, it’s the third Monday of the year!
Bedford Poetry Company present
their own original poems to share
the gloom and lift the spirits! Quarry
Theatre, 26 St Peter’s Street, Bedford
MK40 2NN. 01234 362337
www.quarrytheatre.org.uk
22-25 Jan Market Boy
“It’s 1985 and anything is possible.”
‘Market Boy’ is a lively coming of age
comedy. The weird and wonderful
characters burst onto stage to an
80s soundtrack, Margaret Thatcher
drops in to buy a pair of shoes, and
The Boys meets The Girl. The Court
Theatre, Station Road, Tring,
HP23 5QY. www.courttheatre.co.uk
23-26 Jan Girl on the Train
Adapted from Paula Hawkins’ novel
– an international phenomenon
selling over twenty million copies
worldwide – and starring Samantha
Womack and Oliver Farnworth, this
gripping new play will keep you
guessing until the final moment.
Milton Keynes Theatre, Marlborough
Gate, Milton Keynes, MK9 3NZ.
0844 8717652. www.atgtickets.com
24-Jan Spirit of the Dance - 20th
Anniversary Tour
Irish in origin and bursting with raw
energy, this explosive and powerful
show combines heart-pounding
Irish Dance with the sensual Latino
rhythms of Flamenco and Red
Hot Salsa in a thrilling production
of strength and passion. Watford
Colosseum, Rickmansworth Road,
Watford, WD17 3JN. 01923 571102.
www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk
25-Jan La Bayadère
‘La Bayadère’ is one of the greatest
works classical ballet history – a
story of love, death and vengeful
judgement set in India. A must-see!
Watford Palace Theatre,
20 Clarendon Road, Watford,
WD17 1JZ. 01923 235455
www.watfordpalacetheatre.co.uk
25-Jan Pound for Pound: The Live
Show 2019
Join award-winning actor star Jake
Wood and his best mate, ex
European Super Bantamweight
Champion Spencer Oliver as they
come live to a stage near you
with ‘Pound For Pound: The Live
Show’, developed from their hit
chart-topping podcast. Hertford
Theatre, The Wash, Hertford,
SG14 1PS. 01992 531500
www.hertfordtheatre.com
26-Jan Morgan & West: Parlour
Tricks
The dashing chaps offer up a plateful
of illusion and impossibility, all served
with wit, charm and no small amount
of panache. Be sure to wear a hat
– Morgan & West might just blow
your mind! Broadway Theatre,
Eastcheap, Letchworth Garden City
SG6 3DD. 01462 681300
www.broadway-letchworth.com
27-Jan Dan Snow - An Evening With
The History Guy
‘Dan Snow - An Evening With The
History Guy’ will feature the wellknown
historian and TV presenter
recount anecdotes of memorable
experiences from his very successful
career as a historian and broadcaster.
Aylesbury Waterside Theatre,
Exchange Street, Aylesbury,
HP20 1UG. 0844 871 7607
www.atgtickets.com
29 Jan - 2 Feb Matthew Bourne’s
Swan Lake
Thrilling, audacious, witty and
emotive, this Swan Lake is perhaps
still best known for replacing the
female corps-de-ballet with a
menacing male ensemble, which
shattered conventions, turned
tradition upside down and took the
dance world by storm. Milton Keynes
Theatre, Marlborough Gate, Milton
Keynes, MK9 3NZ. 0844 8717652
www.atgtickets.com
30-Jan Andrew Doyle: Friendly
Fire
Andrew Doyle is one of the UK’s
foremost political satirists. ‘Friendly
Fire’ is his seventh solo stand-up
show. The Stables, Stockwell Lane,
Milton Keynes, MK17 8LU. 01908
280800. www.stables.org
31 Jan - 2 Feb Good Dog
‘Good Dog’– set during the early
noughties – tells the story of growing
up in a multicultural community, and
the everyday injustices that drive
people to take back control. Watford
Palace Theatre, 20 Clarendon Road,
Watford, WD17 1JZ. 01923 235455
eastlife.co.uk 135

www.watfordpalacetheatre.co.uk
31-Jan I’m Not Running
‘I’m Not Running’ is an explosive new
play by David Hare, premiering at
the National Theatre and broadcast
live to cinemas. Quarry Theatre, 26 St
Peter’s Street, Bedford, MK40 2NN
01234 362337
www.quarrytheatre.org.uk
31-Jan Carl Hutchinson: I Know I
Shouldn’t Behave Like This...
Geordie comedian Carl Hutchinson is
back with a brand new show. From
buying a house to having kids, Carl
takes his unique adolescent approach
to grown up issues. The Stables,
Stockwell Lane, Milton Keynes, MK17
8LU. 01908 280800. www.stables.org
MUSIC
13-Jan The Little Mix Experience
Four hugely talented girls pay tribute
to the UK’s finest girl-band with
breath-taking dance moves, replica
costumes and some of the finest
vocals in the UK. Aylesbury Waterside
Theatre, Exchange Street, Aylesbury,
HP20 1UG. 0844 871 7607
www.atgtickets.com
16-Jan Some Guys Have All the Luck
- The Rod Stewart Story
Frontman Paul Metcalfe is incredible
as Rod and captures all the excitement,
energy and charisma of the
legendary performer. Milton Keynes
Theatre, Marlborough Gate, Milton
Keynes, MK9 3NZ. 0844 8717652
www.atgtickets.com
17-Jan The ​Rolling​ ​Stones​ ​Story
A high energy concert celebrating
the music of the world’s greatest rock
‘n’ roll band. Milton Keynes Theatre,
Marlborough Gate, Milton Keynes,
MK9 3NZ. 0844 8717652
www.atgtickets.com
18-Jan Simply reRed: Holding Back
The Years
The exceptional nine-piece band
recreates every slick groove and
perfect melody from Mick Hucknall’s
remarkable global career in an
unparalleled display of authenticity
and style, guaranteed to keep the
audience dancing and singing all
night. The Stables, Stockwell Lane,
Milton Keynes, MK17 8LU. 01908
280800. www.stables.org
20-Jan Ultimate Buble
Mark’s mesmerising likeness to the
modern day Canadian crooner will
have fans of Michael Bublé and big
band music dancing at the tables -
after enjoying their Sunday lunch!
Watford Colosseum, Rickmansworth
Road, Watford, WD17 3JN. 01923
571102. www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk
20-Jan Someone Like You - The
Adele Songbook
A stunning live concert performance,
celebrating the music of one of our
generations finest singer-songwriters.
Aylesbury Waterside Theatre,
Exchange Street, Aylesbury,
HP20 1UG. 0844 871 7607
www.atgtickets.com
30-Jan Hello Again…The Story of
Neil Diamond
Evocative imagery, video and
narration enhance the magic, as the
show takes you on a musical journey
through Neil Diamond’s glittering 50
year career. Watford Colosseum,
Rickmansworth Road, Watford,
WD17 3JN. 01923 571102.
www.watfordcolosseum.co.uk
31-Jan Money For Nothing
A tribute to the Dire Straits like no
other before. Prepare to be captivated
by the authentic sounds of one
of the most successful rock bands of
all time. The Gordon Craig Theatre,
Lytton Way, Stevenage, SG1 1LZ.
01438 363200.
www.gordon-craig.co.uk
ARTS & CULTURE
1 Dec - 3 Mar Game Plan
Come and see some of the most
iconic, enthralling and visually striking
games from the V&A’s outstanding
national collection of board games.
Alongside current family favourites
the exhibition will look at historical
board games including The Game
of the Goose and other beautifully
designed games from the 18th and
19th centuries. St Albans Museum
+ Gallery, Market Place, St Peter’s
Street, St Albans, AL3 5DJ
www.stalbansmuseums.org.uk
3 Jan - 8 Feb Colour Snap
This group exhibition showcases
moving image and installation work
by artists such as Jacob Dahlgren and
Rhys Coren. Art and Design Gallery,
University of Hertfordshire,
Hatfield. 01707 281127
7 Jan - 2 Feb Members’ Show
First show of the new year highlights
the talents of the gallery’s artists.
The Eagle Gallery, 101 Castle Road,
Bedford, MK40 3QP. 01234 346995
www.eaglegalleryartists.co.uk
SPECIAL EVENTS
Until 13 Jan The Big Skate
Get your skates on this Christmas at
Watford’s very own real ice rink!
The Parade, Watford
www.watfordbigevents.co.uk
1-Jan Historic Hertford Guided
Walk
Join this guided walk in Salisbury
Square looking back at the history of
Hertford. Starts at 11am, priced £6.
Hertford Town Centre
10-Jan Puddingstone Distillery Tour
Evenings
Join Distillery Founders, Ben & Kate
Marston, who will present an insight
into the history of gin, Puddingstone
Distillery and how Campfire Gin
is made. The tour begins at 8pm
and ends at 10pm. Unit 1, Artisan
Workshops, P E Mead & Sons Farm
Shop, Lower Icknield Way, Wilstone,
Tring, HP23 4NT. 01442 502 033
www.puddingstonedistillery.com
ANTIQUES & AUCTIONS
13-Jan Woburn Antiques and
Collectors Fair
The fair welcomes new sellers to join
its regulars who offer a wide range of
quality items. Woburn Village Hall,
Crawley Road, Woburn, MK17 9QD
20-Jan Biggleswade Antique &
Vintage Fair
Over 45 stalls of just about every type
of antique you can think of. Open:
9.30am - 4pm. Admission £2. Entry is
free for children under 16.
The Weatherley Centre, Eagle Farm
Road, Biggleswade, SG18 8JH
27-Jan Ampthill Antiques and
Vintage Fair
32 stalls selling china, books, furniture,
clothing, etc. Entry £1. Open: 9am-
3.30pm. Parkside Hall, Woburn
Street, Ampthill, MK45 2HX.
01234 345082
eastlife.co.uk 137

Townsends Light Blue,
now stocking Ortleib
Panniers and accessories
• Fully waterproof ensures water stays out
• The Premier transport solution for
commuting to world tours
• The range includes PVC FREE Options
With a great range of bikes, cycle accessories
and a fully stocked workshop, we can provide
for all of your cycling needs!
T: 01223 315845 72 Chesterton Road, Cambridge, CB4 1EP
Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday, 8.30am - 5.30pm www.townsends-lb.co.uk

Cambridgeshire
The
Cambridge
Scene
Written by Victoria Magnall
Twitter: @victoriamagnall
Instagram: @victorias_social_scene
Blog: victoriamagnall.wordpress.com
Now that the last of the mince pies have been
eaten and the country is on an annual detox,
you may be looking for something to spice up
your new year. Thankfully, there is just SO much
on our Cambridge doorstep that there is no
excuse to hibernate this January!
As Oscar season is approaching, why not visit some of our
famed cinematic locations? Great Court at Trinity College
can be seen in the Academy Award winning film, ‘Chariots
of Fire’. Scenes of Nigel Havers speeding across the Great
Court cobbles have inspired many a re-enactment! To
add to the occasion, you may wish to watch the British
masterpiece again before visiting.
We host one of the world’s most beautiful libraries
and the best bit is that it is open to the public. Wren
Library, designed by Sir Christopher Wren in 1676, has
some of the most important works of literature and rare
manuscripts on its shelves. Why not write some pages
of your inner novel within the walls of this magnificent
building, or failing that, savour a quiet read in this
stunning sanctuary.
The cloisters at St John’s College is often referred to as a
Harry Potter walkway, flooding with light and with terrific
acoustics. It was recently seen on screen in ‘A Theory of
Everything’ with Eddie Redmayne, playing the leading
role of Professor Stephen Hawking. St John’s College
also played the backdrop to the film’s beautiful May
Ball. Visit @stjohnscam on Instagram for some truly lovely
images of the college, grounds and students.
The Bridge of Sighs and Kitchen Bridge are also seen in
the Oscar winning film when the lead actors are spinning
and dancing on the banks on the River Cam. A still now
captured on postcards sold around the city shows the two
historical landmarks which make up a collection of
25 bridges, each with their own story and charm.
The imposing Fitzwilliam Museum is the place to ensure a
cultural fix and this January you can indulge in the works
of Rosseti, Ruskin and Orpen. If that isn’t enough you can
also take in an exhibition by James McNeill Whistler.
What a place to while away a January afternoon...
and all you have spent is your time!
Victoria’s Top Tip
102 Things To Do In Winter by
Alex Quick
With a young family, reference
books that I can dip in to are still firm favourites and
this is a gem of a find! Packed full of cosy ideas to enjoy
as a family will ensure that your New Year is joyous.
Flicking through the pages, what to plan first? Attend a
pantomime, fry an ice cream or go snow tubing?! Alex
Quick’s ‘102 Things To Do In Winter’ has captured the
essence of winter in this easy read, one to buy now and
enjoy throughout the winter months!
eastlife.co.uk 139

Tracy Borman
‘Old Scarlett’ Tours
A Merrie Tudor Evening
Commemoration Service
At Home with the Tudors
Katharine of
2019
Aragon Festival
www.peterborough-cathedral.org.uk/katharine.aspz
01733 355315 / 864663

What’s on in
Peterborough
Christmas may be over but Peterborough shows no
sign of slowing down its social calendar. This year
the city has many great reasons to visit. Its shopping
centres, dining scene and magnificent cathedral may
be top of visitors’ lists, but a special event can be a
great excuse for planning a weekend away - or an
added bonus to an existing break. Peterborough has
events taking place throughout the year so there’s
never a dull moment. Get your diary ready and plan
your next trip with one of these fun-filled days out:
Katharine of Aragon Festival, 25-27 January
The year begins with Peterborough Cathedral and Vivacity
Peterborough Tudor theme festival, which marks the date in
January 1536 when King Henry VIII’s first wife was buried at
Peterborough Abbey, following her death in exile at Kimbolton
Castle. She rests at the Cathedral to this day! The festival
features a busy line up of interesting talks, tours, services, crafts
and period entertainment.
For more details visit www.peterborough-cathedral.org.uk or
www.vivacity-peterborough.com
Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night at Peterborough Cathedral,
13-15 February
One of Shakespeare’s best loved comedies, Twelfth Night, is
to be staged at Peterborough Cathedral by Gearbox Theatre
Company. This talented new theatre company is combining
the Cathedral’s stunning Norman architecture, a sixties skiffle
band and Shakespeare’s poetic language, to bring this colourful
production to life. Tickets, from £11 - £25, are now on sale via
www.peterborough-cathedral.org.uk/twelfthnight
Peterborough Fake Festival, 25 May
Calling all wannabe rock stars! Enjoy a day of live music with
spine-tingling performances performed by the festivals ‘fake
bands’. This year’s line-up includes talented artists performing
tributes to Pink, Oasis, Kings of Leon, Gun & Roses and more.
It’s not to be missed! Adult ticket from £25, child aged 10-17
from £17.50. www.fakefestivals.co.uk/2019/Peterborough.html
Peterborough Dragon Boat Race, 8 June
One of the most popular annual events in Peterborough, join
the crowds on the river banks and cheer on the crews as they
challenge each other in a 200m race. It’s a great family day out
with additional entertainment. Why not enter yourself and get
into the team spirit? You’ll need up to 10 team members.
www.dragonboatfestivals.co.uk
eastlife.co.uk 141

Discover our Edwardian police cells
Under Under the Personal the Personal supervision of of principals, Tina Pilgrim & Donna Buchanan
Classes Under the Personal for children's supervision of principals, Tina Pilgrim & Donna Buchanan
grades & vocational
levels Classes in for children's
grades & vocational
Classical levels inballet,
Classes for children’s
modern theatre,
Classical grades ballet, & vocational
contemporary &
modern levels in theatre,
tap dance
contemporary Classical ballet, &
tap modern dance theatre,
Teaching contemporary faculty are & all fully
tap dance
qualified Teaching and faculty CRB are checked all fully
& include qualified examiners and CRB checked of the
Royal & include Academy examiners of Dance, of the
Royal Academy of Dance,
Imperial Teaching Society faculty of Teachers are all fully of qualified Dancing and CRB & Professionals
checked &
Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing & Professionals
from Theatre include examiners & Classical of the Companies
Royal Academy of Dance, Imperial
from Theatre Society & of Classical Teachers of Companies Dancing & Professionals from
Theatre & Classical Companies
For further details, Please contact 01223 356023
For further details, Please contact 01223 356023
or email us at king.slocombe@tesco.net
or email us at at info@kingslocombe.com
king.slocombe@tesco.net
www.kingslocombe.com
www.kingslocombe.com
8 Emmanuel Road, Cambridge, CB1 CB1 1JW 1JW
8 Emmanuel Road, Cambridge, CB1 1JW
Visit St. Neots Museum
at the heart of St. Neots
❖ Friendly local museum
❖ Free entry for all local people
❖ Fun hands-on displays
❖ Photographs from the past
❖ Temporary exhibitions
❖ Family activities in the holidays
8 New Street, St Neots, PE19 1AE
Tel: 01480 214163
Open: Tuesday to Saturday, 11.00am - 4.00pm
www.stneotsmuseum.org.uk
Luxury Self Catering Accommodation
Lakeside home set in 30 acres of gardens, woods and
lakes. Tennis, rowing, kayaking, birdwatching, walking
and open swimming in the grounds. Short breaks
available. Stamford and Peterborough close by.
Ideal for families and groups.
Our products and services we offer are wide and varied and we
are a small independent company which means we can stock
what we want and are not controlled by the manufacturers of
the products we stock.
We hold stock on the most popular ranges of cookware and
bakeware and can order in if required, anything that we do
not hold as a stock item at the time of your visit.
If you ever need our advice we have well trained staff that are
always on hand to help with advice on our product ranges.
If you only require a part for an accessory then please ask as
we also carry many of these on the premises too.
House per week: £1730 to £1835
Short breaks available Sleeps 8+2
Lake Lodge, West End Road, Maxey, Peterborough PE28 5LS
01832 293688/07702 210608
www.lakelodgemaxey.co.uk
36 Market Place, Oundle
Peterborough, PE8 4BE
Tel/Fax: 01832 275414

What’s on: Cambridgeshire
THEATRE, FILM AND SHOWS
8-12 Jan Little Women
A timeless and captivating story, is
brought to life in this glorious musical.
ADC Theatre, Park St, Cambridge
CB5 8AS. www.corpusplayroom.com
8-12 Jan Crimes Against Christmas
‘Crimes Against Christmas’ is a good
old-fashioned, grown-up antidote to
the traditional family pantomime.
ADC Theatre, Park St, Cambridge
CB5 8AS. www.corpusplayroom.com
11-12 Jan X
Billions of miles from home, the
lone research base on Pluto has lost
contact with Earth. Unable to leave
or send for help, the skeleton crew
sit waiting…waiting…waiting long
enough for time to start eating away
at them. To lose all sense of it. To
start seeing things in the dark outside.
Mumford Theatre, East Road,
Cambridge, CB1 1PT . 0845 196 2320
www.anglia.ac.uk
15-Jan The Tragedy of King Richard
the Second
Richard II, King of England, is irresponsible,
foolish and vain. His weak
leadership sends his kingdom into
disarray and his court into uproar.
Seeing no other option but to seize
power, the ambitious Bolingbroke
challenges the throne and the king’s
divine right to rule. Key Theatre,
Embankment Road, Peterborough,
PE1 1EF. 01733 207239
www.vivacity-peterborough.com
16-19 Jan My Fair Lady
Fall in love all over again with
England’s favourite flower girl in this
fresh, memorable production of the
classic musical ‘My Fair Lady’, by Alan
Jay Lerner and Frederick Loewe.
Cambridge Arts Theatre, St Edward’s
Passage, Cambridge, CB2 3PJ
01223 503333. www.cambridgeartstheatre.com
18-Jan Sam Avery: the Learner
Parent
Stand-up comedian, viral blogger and
bestselling author Sam Avery (aka the
Learner Parent) started his award-winning
blog when his twin boys were
born. A million nappies, Peppa Pig
episodes and a head-full of hair loss
later, he shares all the lows, highs and
hilarious in-betweens of his experiences
of first-time parenthood. The
Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge,
CB1 7GX. 01223 511511
www.junction.co.uk
18-19 Jan A Clockwork Orange
A study in free will, behavioural
conditioning and the state, it follows
the fortunes of young Alex and his
droogs, with a bit of the Ultraviolence
and the old in-out in-out. Mumford
Theatre, East Road, Cambridge,
CB1 1PT. 0845 196 2320.
www.anglia.ac.uk
22-Jan The Queen of Spades
In Tchaikovsky’s intense opera of obsession
and the supernatural, Gherman
is caught between the woman
he loves and a destructive fixation.
Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough,
PE1 1EF 01733 207239
www.vivacity-peterborough.com
22-26 Jan The Fenland Screamers &
Other Boggy Tales
They were invited to see out the Old
Year – but would they ever see in
the New? Key Theatre, Embankment
Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF.
01733 207239.
www.vivacity-peterborough.com
27-Jan Nish Kumar: It’s In Your
Nature to Destroy Yourselves
There will be jokes about politics,
mankind’s capacity for self-destruction
and whether it will lead to the
end of days. Good fun stuff.
Cambridge Corn Exchange, Wheeler
Street, Cambridge, CB2 3QE.
01223 357 851.
www.cambridgelivetrust.co.uk
28-Jan Dirty Dusting
A chance wrong number, gives three
cleaning ladies, a great idea ‘Why
not run a sex chat line?’ after all, their
age and appearance won’t matter
on the phone and providing they can
keep this a secret from their boss,
they could be on to a winner. Key
Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough,
PE1 1EF. 01733 207239
www.vivacity-peterborough.com
28-Jan Sir Ranulph Fiennes: Living
Dangerously
Sir Ranulph Fiennes’ many endeavours
have pushed his endurance
levels to the very limits, inspiring generations
and making him a pioneer of
exploration with an unparalleled story
to tell. Cambridge Corn Exchange,
Wheeler Street, Cambridge,
CB2 3QE. 01223 357 851.
www.cambridgelivetrust.co.uk
29-Jan Circus of Horrors: Psycho
Asylum
The Circus of Horrors is back with a
bang & a brand new show, ‘Psycho
Asylum’ which includes an amazing
amalgamation of acts, driven by a
rock’n’roll sound scape. Key Theatre,
Embankment Road, Peterborough,
PE1 1EF. 01733 207239
www.vivacity-peterborough.com
29-Jan Stephen K Amos: Bouquet
and Brickbats
Forget everything that’s going on in
the world and immerse yourself in the
warmth of “one of the most likable
figures in British Comedy“ - Radio
Times. The Junction, Clifton Way,
Cambridge, CB1 7GX. 01223 511511
www.junction.co.uk
30-Jan La Traviata
From the thrill of unexpected romance
to a heartbreaking reconciliation that
comes too late – Verdi’s La traviata is
one of the most popular of all operas.
Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough,
PE1 1EF. 01733 207239.
www.vivacity-peterborough.com
30-Jan Ken Cheng: Best Dad Ever
Dave Joke of the Fringe Winner,
Cambridge mathematics dropout
and professional poker player Ken
Cheng embarks on his UK-wide tour
following a sold-out, award nominated
run at the Edinburgh Festival. The
Junction, Clifton Way , Cambridge,
CB1 7GX. 01223 511511
www.junction.co.uk
31-Jan I’m Not Running
Pauline Gibson has spent her life as a
doctor, the inspiring leader of a local
eastlife.co.uk 143

It’s PANTO time!
at the Burgess Hall
9th - 13 th January
Tickets from £8
Anthem:
Ultimate Queen
Friday 22 nd February
Tickets from £21
An enchanting evening
Carpenters Gold
Friday 29 th March
Tickets £22
9 - 13 January Snow White and
the Seven Dwarfs
30 January Burgess Bingo
2 February Boogie Nite
8 & 9 February 1940s Weekend
17 February Indoor Car Boot
22 February Anthem: Ultimate Queen
25 February Tea Dance
27 February Burgess Bingo
9 March Boogie Nite
22 March Reggae Party feat. Aswad
24 March Indoor Car Boot
25 March Tea Dance
27 March Burgess Bingo
28 March The Dreamboys
29 March Carpenters Gold
Westwood Road, St Ives PE27 6WU
01480 388111
www.burgesshall.net
Managed by Huntingdonshire District Council

health campaign. When she crosses
paths with her old boyfriend, a
stalwart loyalist in Labour Party politics,
she’s faced with an agonising
decision. Key Theatre, Embankment
Road, Peterborough, PE1 1EF.
01733 207239.
www.vivacity-peterborough.com
MUSIC
11-Jan The Fiver
A longstanding Cambridge Junction
event offering emerging bands the
opportunity to play on the J1 stage.
The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge,
CB1 7GX. 01223 511511
www.junction.co.uk
19-Jan Megson
The husband & wife duo bring an
infectious mix of heavenly vocals,
lush harmonies and driving rhythmic
guitars. The Junction, Clifton Way,
Cambridge, CB1 7GX. 01223
511511. www.junction.co.uk
20-Jan New Europe Society Chopin
Series
Gülsin Onay’s truly international career
has spanned over 55 countries
across all continents. She has recorded
20 albums that illustrate the
breadth of her repertoire as well as
her interpretive power. West Road
Concert Hall, Cambridge, CB3 9DP.
0845 196 2320. www.anglia.ac.uk
21-Jan The Classic Rock Show
Anthem after anthem, riff after riff,
solo after solo, ‘The Classic Rock
Show’ brings the original recordings
back to life on stage; with a huge
sound and light show to match.
Culminating in a show-stopping guitar
duel that is definitely not to be
missed. Cambridge Corn Exchange,
Wheeler Street, Cambridge,
CB2 3QE. 01223 357 851
www.cambridgelivetrust.co.uk
24-Jan Luther - A Celebration
Fronted by international Luther
Vandross tribute Harry Cambridge
and his 10 piece band. Cambridge
Corn Exchange, Wheeler Street,
Cambridge, CB2 3QE. 01223 357
851. www.cambridgelivetrust.co.uk
25-Jan Sweet Caroline: The Ultimate
Tribute to Neil Diamond
The good times never seemed so
good…introducing Sweet Caroline,
the ultimate tribute to Neil Diamond
featuring Gary Ryan, as seen
on Stars in Their Eyes. Cambridge
Corn Exchange, Wheeler Street,
Cambridge, CB2 3QE. 01223 357
851. www.cambridgelivetrust.co.uk
27-Jan East Anglia Chamber
Orchestra
The region’s premier chamber
orchestra returns to Cambridge with
a delightful programme, under the
direction of conductor Jacques Cohen.
David Cohen joins them to play
the wonderful 1st cello concerto by
Shostakovich. West Road Concert
Hall, Cambridge, CB3 9DP. 0845 196
2320. www.anglia.ac.uk
28-Jan The East Pointers
There’s a reason, beyond their
dazzling musicianship and wildly
entertaining live shows, that The
East Pointers have connected with
audiences right across the globe,
making new, original roots music the
hippest, most vibrant thing going.
The Junction, Clifton Way, Cambridge,
CB1 7GX. 01223 511511
www.junction.co.uk
31-Jan Creedence Clearwater
Reimagined
‘Creedence Clearwater Reimagined’
is celebration of the music
of this hugely influential band.
Using original vintage gear and
authentic costumes, this high
energy show faithfully recreates the
true sound and feel of CCR in the
height of their fame. Key Theatre,
Embankment Road, Peterborough,
PE1 1EF. 01733 207239
www.vivacity-peterborough.com
ARTS & CULTURE
5-13 Jan East Cambridgeshire
Schools Art Competition 2019
Five categories for young people
aged 4—18yrs. Prizes are sponsored
by Tindalls and other local shops
and businesses. Babylon Gallery,
Waterside, Ely, CB7 4AU. 01353
616991. www.babylonarts.org.uk
8 Jan - 17 Mar Whistler & Nature
Whistler & Nature casts a new light
on the work of the great late-Victorian
master, James McNeill Whistler;
an artist with a bold personality and
a revolutionary attitude towards
the natural world. The Fitzwilliam
Museum, Trumpington Street, Cambridge,
CB2 1RB. 01223 332900
www.fitzmuseum.cam.ac.uk
22 Jan - 5 May Enriching
Collections: Recent acquisitions
of prints and drawings 2009-
2019
This exhibition is the first of two
successive selections of works on
paper to celebrate the outstanding
generosity of benefactors and donors
who have helped to enrich the
collections. The Fitzwilliam Museum,
Trumpington Street, Cambridge ,
CB2 1RB. 01223 332900
www.fitzmuseum.cam.ac.uk
22 Jan - 24 Mar Artist Rooms:
Louise Bourgeois
The selection of work at Kettle’s
Yard includes sculptures, prints and
drawings, reflecting different periods
in Bourgeois’ life, and is drawn
from the Artist Rooms collection.
Kettle’s Yard, University of Cambridge,
Castle Street, Cambridge,
CB3 0AQ. 01223 748 100.
www.kettlesyard.co.uk
SPECIAL EVENTS
12-Jan Winter Wildlife Safari
A walk around the reserve with a
Ranger, finishing the walk at the Visitor
Centre to (hopefully) watch the
Hen Harriers coming into roost over
the Sedge Fen at sunset. Includes
hot drink. Tickets £8. Wicken Fen
Nature Reserve. www.nationaltrust.
org.uk/wicken-fen-nature-reserve
17-Jan Wine & Cheese Tasting
Cheese is often considered the
perfect partner to wine, but it’s not
always that easy. Often white wine
works just as well as red and you can
find out why and taste seven wines
matching them with seven top quality
cheeses from around the world!
Cambridgeshire Wine School
The Royal Cambridge Hotel (hired
venue), Trumpington Street, Cambridge
CB2 1PY. 01223 655391
25-Jan Campfire Cooking
Come and cook up some tasty treats
with a festive flavour. Participants
will be have a go at cooking and
eating some simple campfire recipes
whilst ensuring the fire doesn’t go
out. Ferry Meadows, Ham Lane,
Peterborough, PE2 5UU
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Veganuary
Happily Ever After
Got engaged this Xmas? Come join us over on Facebook
at www.facebook.com/eastlifeweddings to keep up to
date with all the latest wedding fairs, tips and trends for
2019!
Have you taken the pledge to go Vegan this
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