Christmas_New Year 08

Town & About 2008To advertise call 01328 851211 Christmas/New Year EditionEREHAMD& BRECKS Issue 18 MOTORING • HOMES & GARDENS • FOOD & DRINK ENTERTAINMENT• HEALTH & BEAUTY • COMPETITIONS www.townandaboutmagazine.co.uk your free community lifestyle magazineTown & About

mail@townandaboutmagazine.co.ukTo advertise call 01328 851211 Fantastic New Ranges of LED Lights Plus Indoor & Outdoor Lights & Fibre Optics Wall or Free-standing Light Sculptures Gifts for Gardeners, Pets & Pet Owners From End of Nov LOCALLY GROWN, FRESH CHRISTMAS TREES Norway Spruce, Blue Spruce & Nordman Fir MYHILL’S PET & GARDEN CHRISTMAS LIGHTS & GIFTS Branches at 7, Church Street, Dereham 01362 692975 12, London Street, Swaffham 01760 721272 35, High Street, Watton 01953 881552 Also at Attleborough, Wymondham & Diss www.myhillspetandgarden.co.uk **Great Gifts for Fishermen at Dereham**

Town & About 2008To advertise call 01328 851211

mail@townandaboutmagazine.co.ukTo advertise call 01328 851211 004

Town & About 2008To advertise call 01328 851211 © Town & About. All rights reserved. Reproduction is forbidden except by the express permission of Town & About. The content is believed to be correct but its accuracy cannot be guaranteed and does not form any part of any offer or contract. Town & About cannot accept responsibility for any omissions or errors. The views expressed are not necessarily those of the editors or the owners. Welcome Community news from around the area Home-made Christmas pud TV’s nutritionist Glen Matten asks : tea - friend or foe? This issue - keeping warm this winter, electrical safety and garden design Up to date legal news from Hood Vores & Allwood Liza Goddard in Panto Advice from solicitors Kenneth Bush Being Positive - business advice from Larking Gowen A motor for five grand Pause for thought Find the ball Topical discussion Your questions answered Vicky seeks help for a ‘pain in the neck’! Andy Turner Vicky Turner Phil Scott 07734 307435 Starre Corner Cottage Dereham Road Colkirk Fakenham NR21 7NQ Tel 01328 851211 Mob 07859 931673 office@norfolkonmymind.co.uk www.norfolkonmymind.co.uk Andy Turner Mob: 07859 931673 Mike Pemberton, Glen Matten, Gill Gorringe, Mark D’Apice. Louise Thomas-Minnsouise Thomas-Minns This issue glen mikegill Promotions Manager Phil louise Contributors Dear Readers Welcome to the 3rd Anniversary edition of Town & About. How time flies when you’re having fun! Fun it has been but also lots of hard work. In the three years we have been going, we are proud to have met with many local businesses and spoken to hundreds of readers, as well as given away prizes worth thousands of pounds. We hope we have now established ourselves as the No.1 free magazine for the Dereham and Brecks area. The positive feedback from the local community has been fantastic and we will continue to make improvements for our advertisers and readers alike. To celebrate our anniversary we are introducing a Readers Corner where you, the reader, can contribute with your letters and emails on subjects close to your heart. Also we have re-launched our website to include a local business directory. Many of us are lucky enough to spend the holidays with our family and friends. With this in mind we would like to give a special mention to all our troops who will be serving overseas this festive season - we are sure you will join with us in wishing them a safe one and a speedy return home for the New Year. May we thank all our readers and customers for their support over the past three years and wish them all a very merry Christmas and a healthy and prosperous New Year. Andy FREE ONLINE DIRECTORY You can now register your business for free visit www.townandaboutmagazine.co.uk and click on the directory link. “We give more to local business because we are a local business!” 005 Front cover pic - courtesy of David Morris www.davidmorrisphotographer.com Find the Ball -£25 Mrs Annison, Swaffham - £15 Mrs S Lawes, Little Fransham - £10 K Gulliver, Swaffham ‘Winners Never Lose’-Mrs D Copeman, High Kelling Imagine Evening Spa Experience -Winner - L Stevens, Watton - Runners Up - R Hall, North Wootton - L Bamforth, North Elmham - L Hobbs, Little Snoring, - T Gwynne, Dereham - D Buttifant, Drayton Pet Idol -Winner - Mrs D Pelling, North Tuddenham (No 10) Runners Up - Mrs K Hendry, Dereham (No13) - A Mays, Dereham (No 7)

mail@townandaboutmagazine.co.ukTo advertise call 01328 851211 006 Sunday 21st Dec. 10.30am ‘Christmas Family Special’ Wellspring Family Church 35 Neatherd Rd Dereham. NR19 2AE www.wellspringfamilychurch.org Tel 01362 854581 office@wfcdereham.org Go Orgasmic with XFactorDating.com! XFactor are expanding their popular Speed Dating evenings to excit- ing new venues in Norwich from 7th October. In addition to Henry’s Bar, which has served XFactor well over the past 3 years, there will be regular Speed Dating events at Orgas- mic Cafe in the heart of Norwich’s nightlife district plus guest appearances at Green’s Health and Fitness and more…. Speed Dating is a fun way of meeting other single people in a relaxed environment, as well as being a good night out; and there is a whole new team of local hosts and icebreakers to make the dating experience run smoothly. Each venue has fantastic offers for all Speed Dating guests making the evening even better value for money. For full details see www.XfactorDates.com or call 0870 871 7777. The Iceni Choir are very privileged to have as their musical director and conductor, James Lilwall. They gave their inaugural concert in July 2007 in Salle Church to a packed audience. Since then they have received invitations to sing in various venues and festivals. Iceni’s repertoire ranges from early Church and sacred music to Broadway and popular song. There are exciting plans to possibly twin the choir with a similar choir in France during 2009. The choir’s aim is to sing, perform and entertain at the highest possible level, whilst still making enjoyment a priority. The Choir has a great President in the form of Hannah Francis, soprano. Hannah was invited by James to hear the choir and has helped by dedicating her time and experience to lessons and workshops. Hannah was principal soprano with the English National Opera performing widely on the international operatic concert platform, As a recitalist, Hannah sings regularly in London. She is delighted to have been invited to be President of the Iceni Choir. The Iceni Choir rehearse on Wednesday evenings at All Saints Church, Bawdeswell at 7.30pm, New members encouraged and always welcome. The Choir will be giving three Christmas concerts with the first in St. Mary's Church, Reepham at 3.00pm on Sunday 30th November. The second at St. Peter and St. Paul Church, Swaffham on Friday 5th December at 7.30pm. And finally, Sunday 7th December, at All Saints Church, Bawdeswell at 4.00 p.m. There are three workshops for voice, taken by Hannah Francis being held Saturday 25th October, Saturday 15th November and Saturday 29th November in All Saints Church, Bawdeswell, These take place from10.30am and everyone is welcome, A further master class with Hannah is planned for January - date to be confirmed. For more details please contact James Lilwall on 01362 688499 or pjlilwall@hotmail.com The Iceni ChoirWellspring Family Church At St. Mary's Church, North Elmham CHRISTMAS CONCERT by TAVERHAM BAND ADULTS £6 (Children under 14 Free) Enquiries 01362 668435/668530 Christmas Postal Dates 2008 Dec-2nd Class Dec-1st Class Dec - Special Delivery with Saturday Guarantee Dec - Special Delivery Dec - South & Central America, Caribbean, Africa, Middle East, Far East, Asia, New Zealand and Australia Dec - Japan, USA, Canada and Eastern Europe Dec - Western Europe

Town & About 2008To advertise call 01328 851211 Makes 2 x 2 pint puddings Initial cooking time 6 – 8 hours Re-Steaming – 2 – 4 hours Ingredients 8oz self raising flour 1 tsp mixed spice Pinch salt 0.5 tsp ground nutmeg 10oz suet 8oz fresh white bread crumbs 4 oz ground almonds 8oz Demerara sugar 8oz raisins 8oz sultanas 8oz currants 6oz chopped, mixed peel 2oz whole almonds, skinned and roughly chopped Grated rind and juice of 1 lemon 3 eggs, beaten 8fl oz brown ale 3 tblspns of brandy Method Sieve together flour, spices, nutmeg and salt. Add suet, breadcrumbs, almonds, sugar, fruit and lemon rind and mix thoroughly. Combine dry ingredients with lemon juice, eggs, ale and brandy to make a stiff dropping consistency. Press into two greased 2 pint pudding basins. Cover securely with greased foil or double thickness greaseproof paper and steam. Re-steam on the day! Serve with lashings of double cream or brandy sauce! NB For a darker pudding, add I tablspn of black treacle. These puddings will keep for up to a year if stored in a cool, dry place. Christmas pud, it seems, has very ancient roots which are two fold. Both of its ancestral links can be traced back to as early as the 1400’s when it was, in fact, originally a savoury food. All surplus animals were traditionally slaughtered in the Autumn and the first ‘Mince Pies’ were actually pieces of meat, mixed with dried fruits which acted as preservatives, encased in pastry and hung for lengthy periods, ready for consumption at large feast times such as the festive season. Its other, closer family member was perhaps the ‘Pottage’. This was a mixture of meats and and vegetables first introduced in Roman times. This concoction was prepared in a large cauldron; the ingredients were slowly cooked with the addition of sugar, dried fruit and spices. Sounds good?? There’s more…. The first records of this ‘Standing Pottage’ show that around 1420, the recipe was further adapted with the addition of bread, currants and sandalwood! It was during the reign of Elizabeth I, however, that the all-important ingredient,, was added to the dish; from this link we see the gradual change to what was to be later known as the plum pudding. As the 1700’s relinquished more advanced techniques for preserving meat, the Pottage and the Mince Pie both saw a decline in their meat components whilst their sweet contents increased. The Mince Pie has kept its name to this day but ‘Plum Pudding’ which was more usually consumed to celebrate the harvest, eventually took on its pinnacle role as Christmas Pudding in the 1830’s – this coincided with the traditional ball shape, was mixed containing fruits, suet, flour, sugar and spice, and topped-off with the trademark holly sprig. These fantastic desserts can be made well in advance of the festive season and keep very well, as long as they are stored in a cool, dark environment. They will last easily into the New Year and beyond which means you can even enjoy one with Easter Day dinner. If you haven’t made yours yet, there’s still time; they do improve with standing but I still think they are much better than any of their shop-bought counterparts, even made at the last minute! If you do find time to knock the following recipe together before the big day, I don’t think you’ll be disappointed! Bring us some figgy pudding 007

mail@townandaboutmagazine.co.ukTo advertise call 01328 851211 John Carrick, a farmer from Swanton Morley, decided that there was an opportunity to breathe new life into two derelict cottages that stood on his land – there was a need for a local pub where people of all ages could relax and enjoy fine ale and good food. From this innovative plan, was born into the village. Since the freehouse first opened its doors over 20 years ago, staff have made it their mission to ensure that a great choice of real ales is always available, along with a seasonal food menu to accompany that choice. Some of the ales on offer include Adnam’s Best, Adnam’s Broadside, Woodforde's Wherry and Fuller's whilst other favourites such as Kronenburg, Miller and Foster’s lagers, Aspall cider and draught Guinness are also on tap. For those that prefer wine, there is a great selection of wines from around the world to please any taste. All dishes from the menu are home-cooked on site, with all ingredients sourced locally. also holds regular ‘Theme nights’ throughout the week where specific types of cuisine can be celebrated and enjoyed. The interior is rustic, warm and comfortable as befits its surroundings and has a unique atmosphere all of its own. Game machines and pool tables are off the menu with good old-fashioned conversation the only other accompaniment to the great food and drink served! For more information visit www.darbysfreehouse.co.uk or contact 01362 637647. Try some home cooking this Christmas • Locally produced Beef Pork & Lamb • Local Game • All Sausages & Burgers made on the premises What is it that more and more customers are discovering at Corners each Christmas? Owner, Isabelle Leader explains. ‘First, it is our great quality fruit and veg - fresh in each day from our neighbouring farms, growers and suppliers. In particular our incredibly popular veg boxes solve so many problems. They can be collected right up to Christmas Eve; the fruit and veg is so fresh it keeps the family going right through the Christmas period and as they are packed straight into a recycled box, there is absolutely no wasteful packaging and very little transportation. I’m very proud of that. And our prices are really competitive.’ Corners also brings together so much more of the very best things from Norfolk at Christmas: fresh Norfolk Christmas trees, wreaths, turkeys, beef, hams, Norfolk cheeses, bread and gifts. ‘Really there is everything here to help you provide your family and friends with a wonderful and traditional Christmas. Good, hearty, local food and trimmings - I don’t think that can be beaten!’ 008 Christmas at Corners

Town & About 2008To advertise call 01328 851211 Glen Matten BA Hons Dip ION MBANT Nutritional Therapist Part 2: Tea I reckon we’ve all been brain-washed into thinking anything that a) tastes good and b) is enjoyable, must definitely be bad for us. Cue coffee. Bad guy turns good. Coffee, whilst not suitable for everyone (pregnancy being one such example where caffeine should be strictly limited) is a rich source of antioxidants and phytochemicals (that’s posh for beneficial plant compounds) and regular consumption may confer some health benefits in the long term. How does tea shape-up? Whilst it doesn’t have the uber-sophisticate image of green tea, black tea (or ‘real’ tea as us Brits might have it) has got a lot going for it. A bit like fruits and vegetables, tea contains high levels of antioxidants, specifically a group of polyphenols known as flavonoids. And tea makes a substantial contribution to our dietary intake of these clever compounds, especially in tea-loving countries such as the UK. Whilst green tea contains more catechins (more of that in a minute), black tea contains more complex flavonoids by the names of thearubigins and theaflavins, generated when the leaves undergo oxidation as they are produced. Yet despite these differences, the antioxidant effect of black tea and green tea are not dissimilar. Black tea’s main claim to fame is its association with a reduced risk of heart disease. And that’s most likely down to its rich content of flavonoids and their antioxidant properties. For cardio-protection, it looks likely that at least 3 cups of tea daily are needed. There are concerns that a lot of caffeine can contribute to bone loss and osteoporosis. But tea bucks the trend, and if anything, what evidence there is suggests that regular consumption of tea appears to protect bone density, especially in older women. Another possible down-side to drinking tea is the effect of the phenolic compounds on Inhibiting iron absorption from food. This could, theoretically at least, lead to anaemia. Whilst generally healthy folk not at risk of iron deficiency don’t really have to worry too much about this, those who are at risk would be well advised to avoid drinking tea at mealtimes. In terms of caffeine content, the average cup of tea weighs in with roughly a third to half the caffeine content of a typical cup of coffee. So whilst it’s considerably lower, individuals sensitive to caffeine or who need to moderate or avoid it, such as in pregnancy or due to specific health problems, should exercise due caution. Green tea has muscled in on the act and wins most of the health plaudits. Saying that, many of the health benefits appear to be pretty similar whether you chose green or black tea. Probably no great surprise considering they come from the same tea bush. But there are some differences too and on balance, green tea packs a bit more punch. This is most likely down to the different ways the two teas are processed. Notably, green tea contains much higher levels of catechins than black tea, the subject of avid research interest. As with black tea, the antioxidants from green tea are readily absorbed and likely explain many of the tea’s health benefits, such as a positive effect on cardiovascular health. These benefits may extend to a degree of cancer protection, notably against breast, ovarian and prostate cancer. Although it has to be said that most of this data comes from experiments in test tubes or animals, so we’re a still a way-off knowing with certainty how valuable these compounds are for human health. Green tea is also showing promise in a number of other areas such as in improving dental health and bone density, protecting against neuro-degenerative disorders such as Alzheimer’s Disease, even controlling body weight and protecting the skin from the damaging effects of the sun. But again, more research needs to be done. And there’s more good news when it comes to the caffeine content, with green tea weighing in with a lower caffeine content than black tea, although the same precautions should apply. On that note, I’m off for a cuppa. 009 Tea & Coffee Friend or Foe? Glen graduated from the Institute for Optimum Nutrition in 2001 and runs nutrition clinics in London and Norwich. His fresh approach to nu- trition has led to regular guest appearances on TV series such asGreat Food Live, Food Uncut, TasteandThe Wright Stuff.Glen regularly con- tributes to radio shows and puts pen to paper for a number of maga- zines and newspapers. Glen teaches and lec- tures at a number of col- leges and is a visiting lecturer at Greenwich University. He is currently studying for an MSc in Nutritional Medicine at the University of Surrey. Throughout 2009, Glen will be continuing his monthly seminars in Nor- wich, with each month tackling a hot topic in the field of nutrition. For more information about appointments or seminars, telephone 01603 890439 or email glen@realnutrition.co.uk

mail@townandaboutmagazine.co.ukTo advertise call 01328 851211 010

Town & About 2008To advertise call 01328 851211 If you haven’t already done so now is the time to install cavity wall insulation, you can lose 35% of heat from your home if you don’t have this done. Loft insulation is also a big money saver as you can cut your heating cost by 25% by having 11 inches of insulation in your loft. It is generally recommended to replace gas boilers after 15 years of use to avoid expensive emergency call outs and to improve the efficiency of the heating system. Replacing an old boiler could save you up to 32p for every pound spent on your heating bills. If you have a hot water storage tank and you want the water to stay hot for longer, then the tank should be insulated with a 3 inch thick jacket or coated with foam. Wherever you can feel cold draughts coming in through gaps around doors and windows, warm air is escaping. You can install simple, effective draught-proofing materials which are readily available from DIY stores. Remember to ventilate! A Winter Fuel Payment is an annual payment made to households with someone aged 60 or over to help with heating costs. If you are on a fairly low income and you are not claiming any benefits, you may be able to, so check it out! Age Concern Norfolk offers a free confidential benefit check service to help you do this. Warm Front is a government funded scheme which offers grants to make your home warmer and more energy efficient. If you use both gas and electricity, getting them both from the same supplier is often cheaper. It is also good to regularly check that you are getting the best deal from your supplier. If you have to heat your home with oil, then your options are somewhat limited. It is always worth “phoning round” local suppliers to find the best deal, also find out if there is a consortium in your area; consortiums can buy in bulk for local householders and therefore can negotiate on price. If you have a low income, your energy supplier may help to improve the energy efficiency of your home by offering you products such as insulation free of charge. All energy suppliers are also obliged to provide free services which include a password protection scheme, annual gas safety checks, quarterly meter readings etc. You may be entitled to receive these services if you are of pensionable age, have a disability, are hearing or visually impaired or have long term ill health. Check out your District Council, some do have schemes to help and offer advice on domestic energy issues, including guidance on grant schemes. A Warm Home For WinterAdvice from Norfolk Age Concern 011

mail@townandaboutmagazine.co.ukTo advertise call 01328 851211 012 People often ask me “Why do we have Earth wires on the pipes under the sink?” Well, the reason we do this is quite simple. Let’s imagine that your washing machine develops a serious electrical fault. A ‘live’ wire inside the machine touches some of the metal parts inside. If this happened and the pipe work throughout the house was not ‘Earthed’, it could all become ‘live’. Obviously, this would result in a very dangerous and life threatening situation. We connect Earth wires to all of the pipe work in the house for ‘your’ safety. If the pipe work in your home is correctly bonded to Earth, it can ‘never’ become ‘live’ and therefore the installation is safe. Electrical Earth bonding is a simple and low cost exercise ensuring the safety of you and your family. If you are concerned about electrical safety or you are unsure whether your electrical installation is safe, please feel free to call us and we will arrange for an appraisal of your installation. We are here to help you. Why on ‘EARTH’ do we need Bonding?

Town & About 2008To advertise call 01328 851211 Town & About Thenumber 1 magazine for Dereham & Brecks Call 01328 851211 Est 2005 20,000 copies+ each issue Garden Design Lately, I have enjoyed designing borders for two of my clients, for the main purpose of cutting for flower arranging. The art is in creating a border that is harvestable but still presents an attractive year-round display. One of my suppliers of perennial plants, who also supplies the likes of Dan Pearson, Piet Oudolf & Co has a list of tried and tested plants which have proven lasting qualities in water. Many have great fragrance too. At this time of the year when berries and autumn leaves can figure in arrangments, the Asters in my border have been a joy. Recent introductions of smaller-bloomed, mildew-resistant selections of Aster ericoides and divaricatus, Aster amellus and long-flowering A x frikartii have given us a stunning range of flower colour, adding a late zing to borders and flower arrangements. Use these with Sedum varieties and Persicaria 'Taurus', together with grass plumes for a striking Autumn arrangement. Recently I visited the lovely Old Court Nursery near Malver, Worcs. who hold the National Collection of Asters. Their borders are an incredible sight in October, (see photo). Once at Great Dixter, I saw starry white-flowering Aster ericoides used hedge-like as a path edging. Sorting through my archives of slides for a talk on Garden Design for a local group, has given me a buzz to look again at some of the interesting and magical gardens I have visited and photographed over the years. But in addition, it makes me realise that in these days of "Doom & Gloom", those of us who derive joy from creating and looking at the beauty of gardens and plants have a source of pleasure costing virtually nothing for ourselves or to the environment. The incredible colour this Autumn has produced has been widely pictured on TV and in newspapers and these beauties have given us a morale boost on the gloomiest of days. Even when the leaves have dropped, November can still produce winter flowers to carry us through to Christmas. The Mahonia x media varieties, such as 'Lionel Fortescue' carry spires of fragrant yellow, not easily ignored. Coronilla valentina ssp. glauca still holds on to its pretty pea-like flowers, happiest in a sunny sheltered spot. The last Buddleia to flower, B x weheriana displays its golden blooms until the first frosts, and Prunus autumnalis blossoms happpily away through the winter. A mild winter will stimulate early flowering of Camellias and fragrant sprigs of Viburnum bodnantense will bring the scent of spring into the house. To cheer us all up, I include two of these pictures which help me look forward to Spring - one is of the lovely Genista aetnensis - the Mount Etna broom, against a blue sky at my friend's cottage in Devon. There is a lovely group of these near the Orangery at Felbrigg Hall. The other is of the Spring Woodland garden at Beth Chatto's in Essex, one of my favourite "inspiration" places - not long now ! ‘Bringing the Garden Indoors’ 013

mail@townandaboutmagazine.co.ukTo advertise call 01328 851211 014

Town & About 2008To advertise call 01328 851211 015

mail@townandaboutmagazine.co.ukTo advertise call 01328 851211 In a bi-monthly series, partners from Dereham and Aylsham Solicitors Hood Vores & Allwood will be offering legal advice on common questions asked by clients and members of the public. This month, it is the turn of David Rose from the Litigation Department: A boy who suffered brain damage after he was kicked in the head while playing on a bouncy castle has been awarded compensation. Sam Harris, who was 11 years old at the time of the accident, had been playing on a bouncy castle set up in a field behind the home of Catherine and Timothy Perry. The Perrys had hired the bouncy castle for their triplets' birthday party. Sam, who was passing with his father, asked Catherine Perry if he could join in. Whilst on the bouncy castle Sam was kicked in the head by a 15-year-old boy doing a somersault. Sam's skull was fractured and he suffered a very serious and traumatic brain injury. As a result, he now has severe behavioural problems and requires round the clock care. In court the judge decided that the accident had been caused because the Perrys had not supervised properly the children playing on the bouncy castle. There should have been someone there to prevent the older boy from using it at the same time as the younger children and to ensure that dangerous play was prevented. The hire contract for the castle also stipulated that it should be under constant supervision whilst in use. At the time of the accident, however, Mrs Perry had her back turned away from the castle while attending to another child. The judge dismissed the defence's claim that Sam's father should have provided better supervision. The total compensation payable could be as much as £1 million. The Perrys have been given permission to appeal against the decision although the judge rated their chances of succeeding as ‘poor’. In Case You Don’t Live Happily Ever After… If you have family wealth that you want to protect, the joy at the prospect of you or one of your children getting married may be tempered somewhat by a touch of trepidation in case the marriage doesn’t last This may be especially true in second or subsequent marriages where one or both parties already has children. In such circumstances, the use of a pre-nuptial agreement (‘pre-nup’) may make a great deal of sense. Legally speaking, such agreements are still unenforceable. However, the judge in a leading case on the subject has most helpfully suggested a number of criteria which would help the courts in deciding whether or not a pre-nup should be enforced. The most important of these from the perspective of the people signing a pre-nup are: Ÿ does the spouse being asked to sign the pre-nup understand it? Ÿ has he or she been properly advised as to its terms? Ÿ was pressure exerted by one spouse to make the other sign? Ÿ was pressure exerted by anyone else to make them sign? Ÿ was the agreement signed willingly? Ÿ did one spouse exploit a dominant position? Ÿ was there full disclosure of the relevant assets? Ÿ does the order preclude the payment of any periodical payments for maintenance of a spouse and if so, would it be unjust to hold the parties to that agreement? Ÿ was the agreement entered into in the knowledge that there would be a child? Ÿ has any unforeseen circumstance arisen which would make enforcing the pre-nup unjust? Ÿ are there grounds for believing that upholding the agreement would be unjust? For a pre-nup to have any chance of being effective, both bride and groom must have the benefit ofindependent and separate legal advice. The agreement should be properly drafted following disclosure of the financial resources of both bride and groom and it should be signed at least a month before the wedding. If you are concerned that a relationship might not have a happy ending, we can help you to protect your family assets from the claims of a former spouse. Boy Injured on Bouncy Castle to Receive Sizeable Settlement 016

Town & About 2008To advertise call 01328 851211

mail@townandaboutmagazine.co.ukTo advertise call 01328 851211 018

Town & About 2008To advertise call 01328 851211 019

mail@townandaboutmagazine.co.ukTo advertise call 01328 851211 Colette Berwick opened her jewellery business in April 2007 which has rapidly taken off and is a thriving concern serving the needs of the local community. The shop stocks a huge selection of jewellery such as Silver, Gold, Platinum, Amber, Pearls, precious and semi- precious stones, engagement, wedding and eternity rings, a wide selection of watches, second-hand jewellery, Christening, Wedding and Anniversary gifts plus Vouchers to name but a few. There is always something affordable for everyone with prices starting from as little as £3.00 to whatever the customer requires, and a free gift wrapping service is provided. Colette specialises in pearl stringing which is rarely carried out by jewellers on their premises and has an impressive selection of pearls on show. Other services provided are jewellery and watch repairs, Insurance Valuations (both verbal and written), bespoke/made to order jewellery and remodelling of your old jewellery to an up-to-date piece of jewellery which can be worn and enjoyed, instead of sitting in a drawer. Berwick Jewellers also offer a buying- in service of any gold (old, new or broken) and pay the best rate in Norfolk – cash given or part exchange. The shop is tastefully furnished and has a warm and friendly atmosphere created by Colette and her team. Colette has been in the jewellery business for 32 years following her Father’s footsteps, who is also the Watchmaker. Her husband David, specialises in diamonds at Hatton Garden in London, which is renowned as the London jewellery quarter and the UK diamond centre. Whatever your requirements, they have the best contacts to source diamonds or semi- precious stones at a price that cannot be beaten. The shop is situated in the heart of Watton’s High Street with a free car park opposite. The hours of business are: Monday to Friday 9am - 5pm Saturday 9am - 4pm (although private appointments can be arranged outside these hours.) You can be assured that all your jewellery requirements can be met and you will be made most welcome at Berwick Jewellers. Christmas Sparkle As ‘Strictly Come Dancing’ heads towards its Christmas finale, we have watched the celebrities and sports stars become fitter, sleeker, meaner and leaner. This comes as no surprise to Xavier Navarre, who teaches Ballroom and Latin American dance at Dereham Leisure Centre on Thursday evenings. “People always imagine that you need strong legs to be a good dancer, but great Ballroom technique requires upper-body strength and core stability as well. If you’ve been a rower, a rugby player or worked on a building-site you’ll face fewer challenges on the dance floor, especially when it comes to good posture and keeping the discipline of a dance frame.”’ says Xavier. Xavier, who has taught all over the world since 1976, is also a British and International judge with the World Dance Council. He is now settled in Norfolk and teaches classes in Dereham, Swaffham and King’s Lynn. Like most professional sports, the world of competitive dance is a tough one. Xavier says: “I’ve always danced for the fun of it. The fact that you can get fit and lose a few of those extra Christmas pudding pounds is a bonus!” Start Dancing in 2009 020

Town & About 2008To advertise call 01328 851211 For many actors, actresses and performers, Christmas is a double-edged sword. There is the fun and energy of pantomime but this can mean working in a theatre miles from home and missing out on spending time with your loved ones. Liza Goddard is getting the best of both worlds this festive season working around 20 minutes from home as one of the stars of this year’s Norwich Theatre Royal pantomime Snow White and The Seven Dwarfs. She will be bringing magic to the stage as Fairy Snowdrop starring opposite the likes of Caitlin Stasey (Rachel in Neighbours), Nick Aldis (TV’s Big O), panto stalwart Richard Gauntlett and a “virtual” Stephen Fry. And Liza cannot wait to return to the Norwich stage. She said: “The thought of doing panto so near home so all my family can come and see it is wonderful. My grand-daughter is particularly looking forward to it and will be spending a lot of time in my dressing-room, no doubt. “It is just lovely. What a joy to be 20 minutes from home over Christmas. It’s perfect.” Liza now sees herself very much a Norfolk resident since moving to the county in 1993 with her husband David North. She lives close to Dereham and says she does not really miss her former home in Surrey all that much. “Surrey was just so crowded and we have made so many friends up here. I think we are firmly part of Norfolk society.” She is also much closer to a place where she spends a lot of time – the Sculthorpe Moor nature reserve just outside Fakenham. As well as being President of the Hawk and Owl Trust which is the umbrella organisation for the site; Liza is very hands-on too helping with everything from fund-raising to helping to lay the boardwalk around the site. She said: “Sculthorpe Moor is very well-attended and the local people have really taken us to their heart. Some people may feel they do not want to join the trust and join the Friends Of The Moor instead. I think more and more people are realising how important wetland is to stop flooding and at Sculthorpe, you have a proper fen which has been here for time immemorial. “It has now been brought back to the way it was before. We have marsh harriers, otters, water voles, rare butterflies and beetles. Any time of the year, it is magic but it is particularly good in the spring and summer when the marsh harriers are there.” It’s a part of Britain that Liza hasn’t seen much of in recent months. She has been working with Alan Ayckbourn at his famous Stephen Joseph Theatre up in Scarborough on some of his newest work – and loving every minute of it. She said: “I have to say he is a genius – it is like working with Shakespeare. Because he has written the plays, he understands them so well and it is very unusual for a straight man to understand exactly how female characters feel. He is a magician. “His favourite thing is being in a rehearsal room with actors. He loves working with them. You see the complete Alan. There is this wonderfully funny complex man but he is also very ken on correct pronunciation and learning your lines. We all try to do the best for Alan – in a way you forget about the audience and do it for him.” Post-panto, Liza is back working on an Alan Ayckbourn play again, touring with one of his newest pieces Life and Beth – and there are some exciting developments afoot. She explained: “There is talk that we might also be taking it to Broadway next year as part of the Brits Off Broadway season. That is going to be really exciting as it is not somewhere I have performed at before.” It seems as though Liza’s panto character Fairy Snowdrop does not need to cast a magic spell to keep her alter-ego busy with work. The exciting plays and must-do parts just keep coming for one of Britain’s most popular actresses and one of Norfolk’s most down-to-earth talents. Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs. Tickets £5-£17.50. Discounts for over-60s, under-18s and groups. Under-threes free. Signed performances on January 17th at 2.30pm and 7.30pm. BOX OFFICE 01603 630000. For more info or to BOOK ONLINE www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk For further information, interviews or images, please contact John Bultitude, Theatre Royal Press Officer, on 01603 598521 or j.bultitude@theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk LIZA GODDARD in Panto 021

mail@townandaboutmagazine.co.ukTo advertise call 01328 851211 KENNETH BUSH S O L I C I T O R S The aim of the pack is to supply buyers with information concerning the property from the point of marketing. The Pack must contain Ÿ a sale statement Ÿ an index Ÿ evidence of your title Ÿ a local authority search Ÿ a drainage authority search Ÿ energy performance certificate Ÿ additional documents for leasehold properties Energy Performance Certificates are now compulsory on all properties whether commercial or residential whenever they are sold or rented. Obtaining an Energy Performance Certificate will involve an inspection of the property by a Domestic Energy Assessor who is qualified in assessing the energy efficiency and environmental performance of the property. Not only will the property receive an energy rating but also list recommendations for improving the energy performance of the property. Kenneth Bush Solicitors offer a complete conveyancing service, including the preparation of a Home Information Pack for £250.00 (including VAT)*. Instructing Kenneth Bush to prepare your Pack will provide peace of mind your Pack is compliant with all legislation, having been prepared by qualified professionals For more information and advice concerning all of our conveyancing services please call in or telephone any one of our offices or visit our website www.kennethbush.com * conditional upon taking up our conveyancing service HOME INFORMATION PACKS If you are thinking about selling your property, you will need a Home Information Pack before marketing your property, otherwise you risk facing financial penalties. Since 14th December 2007 Home Information Packs have been compulsory from the point of marketing regardless of the size of your property. 022

Town & About 2008To advertise call 01328 851211 Over the past few months, you cannot avoid the turbulence and uncertainty in the financial markets. The bail-out of the banking system by governments around the world is unprecedented. The numbers are frightening. Inflation is increasing month on month and we have all seen the impact of rising fuel and food prices. If not already here, we are told by many commentators that recession is just around the corner. For many years, times have been good; low inflation, stable growth and plentiful supply of credit. Things are now very different. Many small business owners are probably too young to remember the last recession and certainly have not had the experience of steering their businesses through one. For others who have experienced previous downturns, perhaps now is a timely reminder. But let’s not be all doom and gloom. What is required is some positive action to ensure that your business is best placed to trade through difficult times and hopefully be in a strong position coming out of the other side. Although this article is aimed at businesses, many of the points are also relevant from a personal perspective. “Cash is king”. The most important aspect of managing your business in the present climate is to manage your cashflow. Understanding the business cycle, and how the cash will flow in and out is vital. There are many factors that will impact on cashflow and understanding the relationship between these different factors will put you in the driving seat. This list below is not exhaustive and different businesses and sectors will have their own specific issues. Hopefully some of the points you may find useful – at the very least, I trust they will get you thinking. 1. Review your costs. Can you slim down your overheads? Are you making the most of discounts offered by suppliers? 2. Do you need to buy new plant and machinery outright? Some form of asset financing may help you to manage short term cashflow. 3.. The sooner you get the invoice out there, the sooner you can collect the cash. 4. Review your debtors and chase as early as you can. It is amazing how a simple phone call will result in payment being made. 5. Ensure your customers know your payment terms when they place an order. 6. Can you invoice in advance or agree stage payments for large orders? Can you insist on a deposit? 7. Credit check new customers. 8. Consider charging interest to late payers. 9. Prepare a cashflow forecast – understand how the cash flows, where the peaks and troughs are and how it fits with your bank facility. 10. If you foresee problems, speak to your bank at the earliest opportunity. Speaking with the bank or any of your advisors if things aren’t going to plan is vital. It minimises the element of surprise, and if you react quickly enough, there may be ways of helping you manage a problem or issue. 11. Take advantage of suppliers’ credit terms. 12. You can also look to manage your VAT liabilities. Check whether your VAT accounting period fits with your cashflow. For example, if your sales peak at the end of your VAT quarter and your customers take more than thirty days to pay, you will need to pay the output VAT before you have collected the cash. 13. The timing of purchases at the end of a VAT period means the related input VAT can be used to offset output VAT sooner than purchases made at the start of a VAT period. 14. Do you need to carry that much stock? Often there is a significant amount of cash tied up in stock. Look at ways your stock can be managed differently to release some of that tied-up cash. 15. Times have changed – review your business plan and ensure you still understand where the business is going. This may seem like common sense, but when was the last time you took time away from your business to work on the business? Don’t leave it until it is too late! Steven Rudd FCA Partner Larking Gowen, Dereham. steven.rudd@larking-gowen.co.uk Tel: 01362 693318 Steven advises a wide range of small and medium sized businesses in planning and compliance matters. If you would like a free initial consultation, please contact him. This article is designed for the information of readers. Whilst every effort is made to ensure accuracy, information contained in this article may not be comprehensive and recipients should not act upon it without seeking professional advice. Larking Gowen is registered to carry out audit work by the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England & Wales. Authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority. 023 Being positive!

mail@townandaboutmagazine.co.ukTo advertise call 01328 851211 024 RESTORE REFURBISH REVALUE 01362 668086 • 07796 175425 www.scuffs.biz Full Valeting Service •Stone Chips • Scratches Alloy Wheels • Painted & Textured Bumpers • Colour Coding Mirrors • Autoglym Life Shine Protection CHRISTMAS VALET VOUCHERS AVAILABLE

Town & About 2008To advertise call 01328 851211 025 As the credit crunch bites and the economy goes downhill quicker than Alberto Tomba, the sale figures of new cars is nose-diving. The average price paid for a ‘pre-enjoyed’ car now stands at £5,000 and there are some real bargains to be had if you dig deep, whatever car you are looking for. Only one choice for me in this category and that is the Yaris for a number of reasons. Firstly is the fact it’s a Toyota and will therefore last until the end of time. Secondly it is probably the best looking car of the era, not overtly styled to stand out without being dull. Thanks to the tall body it also feels the most spacious in its class. It will accommodate five adults with ease and still have room in the boot for shopping. It has to be said its road manners aren’t fantastic but in its natural habitat around town it feels sure-footed and nippy. The one we saw: 55 Reg, 1.0 litre T2, 24k Miles, £5,000 – A large car supermarket This might be a surprise inclusion to some but for me it’s a no-brainer. If you are considering a large car for a private purchase then it must mean you have some offspring. This being the case you will want to transport them in as safe a manner as possible. And I’m afraid that means becoming the owner of what the media labels a ‘gas-guzzler’. A tag which is a bit harsh though, when applied to the diesel Freelander which will quite easily return 40mpg on a run. Even the 1.8 petrol won’t be as thirsty as you may think. Reliability is pretty good, even on older cars, Although, daft as it sounds, check for any evidence of harsh off-road use! The one we saw: 03 Reg Serengeti 2.0D, 41k Miles, £5,000 – Main dealer Only one choice in this category and it has to be the cheeky MX-5. They were introduced to the UK in1989 and have sold well over a million units worldwide. This means that not only are there plenty of examples to choose from, which keeps prices competitive, but there are plenty of spare part dealers should anything go wrong. For the price you’ll struggle to find anything more enjoyable or fun to drive. Although £5k will only get you an ‘old- shape’ model, it still looks as fresh and modern as it did at launch. Thanks to its far-eastern roots, reliability and build quality is exceptional. Just make sure any imported Eunos Roadsters have had their chassis sealed on arrival in the UK as they don’t use salt on the roads in the land of the rising sun! The one we saw: 03 Reg 1.8i, 47k Miles, £4,750 – Local used car dealer OK, I may have gone a bit over the top here. If you are looking to cut costs a car powered by a 4.0 litre supercharged V8 may not be top of your shopping list, but bear with me! There has been a lot of debate surrounding the new bandings for road tax which will punish the most polluting cars, but whatever finally happens, the rules will only apply to cars registered after March 2001. Once these rules kick in, it will be cheaper to tax the 10-year-old Jaguar XJ-R we choose below than it will certain variants of the Vauxhall Zafira. Fuel may cost a tad more but which would you rather have! While the car below may well be nearly 10 years old, the shape has hardly changed since. This means a small investment in a personalised plate will make the car ageless to all bar the most hardened Jaguar spotter. The one we saw: 98 ‘S’ reg 4.0 V8 XJR, 80k Miles, £4,995 – Private seller Mark D’Apice Motoring

mail@townandaboutmagazine.co.ukTo advertise call 01328 851211 Mixed Blessings? I don’t expect that I am alone when I say that I was born as an ‘optional extra’ to my 40- something parents . When you think your family is complete, it must always be a dreadful shock to find the stork will be visiting again! I almost feel guilty at what upheaval my arrival must have caused! I was never aware, however, until I was approaching the end of my time at Junior School that my family dynamics were any ‘different’ to those of my peers. The playground banter of ‘How big is your Dad’ one day changed to ‘How old is your Dad?’ I thought I had won and was triumphant in the fact that my Dad was a good 15 years senior to the majority of the others. It was later that day that I sat at home, watching my Dad reading the ‘EDP’, glancing periodically at the six o’clock news over its pinnacle, that I noticed how the mop of grey hair that swept over his head actually concealed a bald patch which I had never noticed before! On a parallel vein, sometime later that year I clearly remember trying to encourage my Mum to purchase some hideously high sandals from our catalogue; my friend’s Mum had a pair and I was eager to boast that my Mum was a trendsetter too; I also recall feeling frustrated when she resisted, saying that her “varicose veins would ache and her bunions wouldn’t sit comfortably against the patent leather”…. It was at that moment that I think I knew, somewhere deep inside, that things were a little different in my house….. I am now 40-something myself but it is only recently that I have begun to analyse my childhood and parents in this way. I now wish I could’ve done more to show my appreciation to these special people when I had opportunity. I look back with such fondness when I think of the hours I spent watching Mum bake. Trays of homemade cakes, pasties, scones and the ever-present, regardless of season, mince pie, constantly adorned our kitchen worktops. We had Terry Wogan and Jimmy Young on the radio and I never knew what was ‘Number 1’ until I was nearly 15! But I came home to an empty house after school (my Dad was kind of old fashioned and never wanted Mum to work- he was the only breadwinner in our family!) Our house was owned by the Council but it was always warm and clean and filled with the smell of cooking. In fact, even though I ogled my friend’s Mum when she wore those gorgeous sandals, my friend would come to and ogle my Mum’s gorgeous cakes. Although I lost my dear old Dad prematurely and my children never got to meet him, my Mum did a fantastic job at keeping him alivespiritually, and the boys talk of him as readily and accurately as if they had. Although I sometimes feel a little sad at Christmas time when I watch all those other Nannies and Granddads clapping and waving at their Grandchildren as they swing baby Jesus upside-down on the stage, I have to shake off that dreadful ill-appointed self-pity and tell myself to be thankful for what I had and have! My Mum does at present, lie in a hospital bed, complete with new hip but recovering fantastically for a woman of 80- something with a bad heart and diabetes; not a scenario anyone would relish but when I hear her chastising the nurse in her eminently ‘Mummy’ style, I know I wouldn’t have it any other way. The old adage that says that children are only on loan to us is so very true but I feel this applies to our parents too. Although I realise we have not all been blessed with such happy childhoods, there is usually someone in all our lives that has given us support, love and kindness somewhere along the way. We are often encouraged by media and so-called life experts not to dwell on the past and to think to the future – whilst I am sure this is a positive thing to do in many situations, I’m sure that it doesn’t always do harm to take a trip back and think of some of those happy memories and, in turn, to cherish those a little more, that helped create them. Perhaps, like me, they were born here – sons and daughters of the generations who have worked the land and produced the nation’s food; perhaps they have moved for economic reasons – for employment or for cheaper housing; perhaps they have moved for a share of the ‘good life’ enjoying the clean air and relative peace of village life while commuting to work in the town; perhaps they have moved from the town in retirement. Whatever the reason, those who move to the villages and market towns from more urban areas can add enormously to the rich and diverse culture of a rural community if they engage with their neighbours in the community life of the village. My mother was born in Ireland but raised in London from the age of two. She met and married my father, a son of Norfolk farming stock, following a holiday here and moved here in the 1930’s. The life was hard and she hated it. She was afraid of the animals, missed the urban comforts of electricity and running water, and, shy by nature, made few friends. What my mother could not do, just like so many incomers today, was to come to terms with the fact that villages and market towns are not pale reflections, or poor relations of larger towns and cities – they are different in almost every way, shaped by their history and tradition, by hardship, by convention, by natural beauty, indeed by nature itself into what they are. So she longed every day for the things she could never have and, blinded by those disap- pointments, failed for years to recognise what she could have instead. I am often asked why I am so passionate about our part of Norfolk – even why I have not taken the advantage provided by my education The Rural Way of Life Win £20 Email: office@norfolkonmymind.co.uk or write to: Starre Corner Cottage, Dereham Road, Colkirk, Fakenham, Norfolk NR21 7NQ Would you like to write and reflect on any aspect of your life? It can be something close to your heart, a moan or groan or perhaps something funny - we would love to hear from you. We will try and publish as many as we can. The star letter will earn £20! 026

Town & About 2008To advertise call 01328 851211 to live elsewhere and some assume that I have never lived in a city. I have indeed, both lived and stayed in cities as diverse as Hull, Paris, Chicago and Timisoara to name but a few! Post War Hull, fighting poverty and neglect, was nonetheless exciting and vibrant and the people were wonderfully kind and generous. The view from the Sears Tower across a night-time Chicago is stunningly breathtaking and Paris and London are both beautiful and stimulating and I can understand why others love what they have to offer. Like the poet Wordsworth, I can enjoy the view from Westminster Bridge as well as the Lake District daffodils But for me, nothing truly compares with the understated beauty of an enormous Norfolk sky at sunset, the sound of the dawn chorus which begins with a single call and grows into a crescendo, skeins of geese weaving wonderful patterns and the real pleasure of truly fresh food from farm shops or farmers’ markets where you know the people who grew the apples or raised the beef and where with a bit of effort you can escape the supermarket frenzy. Of course there are disadvantages to rural living - the loss of services to many villages makes life difficult for many - but for me they are completely outweighed by the advantages. The sights, smells and sounds in a village are as much a part of rural life as those of a town are of urban life. We can no more turn off the dawn chorus than I could turn off the 24 hour surround sound of city traffic which kept me awake all those years ago in Hull. As I could not leave, I learned to live with it. By the time I was in my teens my mother had learned to live in a village and finally, instead of complaining about the lack of street lights she carried a torch and enjoyed the stars. 500 Business Cards Full Colour Process both sides on 330gsm Board £50 2500 A5 Flyers Full colour both sides On 135gsm gloss £99 5000 A5 Flyers Full colour both sides On 135gsm gloss £125 5000 A6 Postcards Full colour both sides On 300 gsm gloss £150 CALL Town and About Magazine on 01328 851211 or 07859 931673 mail@townandaboutmagazine.co.uk Town & AboutTown & About Town & AboutTown & About Do you need leaflets, flyers, postcards to be distributed somewhere in Norfolk? We can do it for you!! Rates from £35 per thousand CHRISTMAS / NEW YEAR OFFER FREE 1 PAGE WEBSITE * *Excludes domain registration & 1 years hosting - Cost £75 first 10 customers only Due to expansion we are currently seeking a SALES EXECUTIVE to work in South Norfolk and Breckland. The ideal candidate will be a professional, self motivated individual that has the ability to work efficiently under pressure. Previous experience in sales would be an advantage although training will be provided. Own car essential. SALES EXECUTIVE DELIVERY & DISTRIBUTION Due to expansion we are currently seeking DISTRIBUTORS in all areas. Work will consist of door to door deliveries of publications and leaflets. Flexible & Casual Hours. The position will be on a self-employed basis Contact Andy Turner 01328 851211 or 07859 931673 Please contact Phil Scott on 07734 307435 or send your CV to Starre Corner Cottage, Dereham Road, Colkirk, Fakenham, Norfolk NR21 7NQ or email to mail@townandaboutmagazine.co.uk 027

mail@townandaboutmagazine.co.ukTo advertise call 01328 851211 Up to the Mike... by Mike Pemberton 028 I went for my flu jab last week. I have to say that at Watton’s surgery the system is like a well oiled human conveyor belt. They move a few chairs around to form a sort of maze where, after circumnavigating some strategically placed obstacles such as hyper infants, discarded crutches and turbo charged wheel chairs, your reward is a sharp prick in the arm. Actually when I arrived there was a somewhat heated argument going on in the car park. Car park designers are, as far as I can make out, about as skilled as a two year old drawing patterns on a sandy beach. If, as I am, you are no longer in the first or second flow of youth you begin to lose some of the sharpness you once had when driving your post world war automobiles along deserted streets. So there they were – a dear old lady (DOL) and a gruff and grumpy old codger (GOC) arguing about their respective driving skills. All I managed to catch, without actually stopping and thrusting a microphone under their noses, was the GOC informing the DOL that her manoeuvring within the confines of the car park left a lot to be desired. With a degree of relief and after my arm had been pricked, like Alice in Wonderland I was shooed off down the one way system to a surprise exit only used in the event of the surgery being on fire. Feeling a welcome waft of cold autumn air hit my face I spied the DOL making her way into the surgery no doubt having told the GOC to disappear to a place none of us would wish to go. She was dressed like the Queen and, having struggled to remove my over-the-head sweater in the half minute allowed for each patient I could not help wondering how long it would take her to remove enough clothing to expose a bare arm and then how much longer it would take her to get dressed again. At a rough guess I would imagine the nurse could have jabbed at least another 35 oldies by the time the DOL was tottering towards the exit. Two things have come to light since I started this piece. The annual NHS budget has risen this year from £69 to £92 million. That’s an increase of 30%. I am interested on how the money, a not inconsiderable sum, will be spent. So, I am going to ask one of my sources inside the NHS to find out. The other and quite bizarre revelation in the Mail on Sunday was that the government will pay doctors bonuses of up to £10,000 for the least number of hospital admissions generated from their surgeries. If this is indeed true who, I wonder, will be responsible for any given surgery’s cut off point? In other words will your doctor make a decision that could ultimately result in your not getting the specialised treatment only possible within a hospital? Despite a recent whacking pay rise there are murmurings that doctors are still over stretched. As long ago as 2005 a junior doctor wrote a critical piece in the New Statesman about the NHS. This is an extract: Things do not seem to have changed much in 3 yearsdo they? Since it is difficult to find an article without some reference to it I have assiduously avoided the credit crunch; but the BBC debacle is just too tempting! No need to rake over what we all know already. I was a member of the team at Andrew Sachs’ agency in London in the pre-Fawlty Towers days. He was and is a really talented and unassuming artist. I am concerned for him but curious to know why a couple of entertainers with more than average IQs to say nothing of Russell Brand’s producer and Radio 2s controller should have failed to understand that a prank of that sort might backfire. Apparently Lesley Douglas was asked by senior BBC directors to spice up the network so it has “youth appeal”. Radio 2 was always designed as a comfort zone for listeners who enjoy wallowing in nostalgia and times past. They call it MOR – middle of the road broadcasting. To attempt a makeover in order to attract an already more than adequately served audience is in direct conflict with the BBC’s diverse network of niche stations catering for many individual tastes and complexions. Finally Mr. Sachs’ granddaughter Georgina Baillie lives and works in a somewhat dark corner of the world of entertainment. It cannot be easy for him, unless publicly stated, to separate their lives. Obscene phone calls are usually a matter of private concern and can be dealt with privately. Unfortunately on this occasion they found their way into the public arena and it falls to the BBC to sort out the mess. Remember the Simon Dee sacking in the late 60s? He ended up on the buses. Somehow I cannot see National Express payingJonathan Ross six million quid a year for driving one of their coaches, can you? DON’T DRIVE DRUNK DUMMY! I first saw this on a car sticker in Florida 20 years ago. The Christmas ‘don’t drink and drive’ campaign comes around each year and each year there are inevitable fatalities often involving people who ignore the Government warnings. At Brovey Lair we’d like to play our part in the campaign by offering our garden suites at half price during the months of November and December 2008 subject to availability. If we are full you can leave your car at the restaurant overnight, take a cab home and come back for it next day. The 2009 Good Food Guide has awarded The Café at Brovey Lair a six for “exciting and innovative pan Asian fish and seafood cooking” moving it up to top position in Norfolk. Call for details of the offer and any other deals we may have during the festive season. Phone: 01953 882706 – E-mail: thecafe@broveylair.com - Website: www.broveylair.com

Town & About 2008To advertise call 01328 851211 AQ Louise Thomas-Minns CIBTAC CIDESCO BABTAC is a skin specialist and therapist with over 12 years experience. She is the owner of U Treatments, a beauty business that brings the salon to you and is about to launch a London skin clinic. She lecturers in, and is an NVQ assessor part time, in beauty therapy. Her specialism in the skin and ingredient technology requires her to be a regular guest on Radio Norfolk and write for some national periodicals. You can visit her website at www.u-treatments.co.uk or call Louise on 07810 872 633 for details of her bespoke treatment menu. Beauty&SkinYour questions answered We have only had a few days of colder weather but I have noticed that my skin seems to be changing and not for the best. Its feels tighter and drier and I have some spots which I never usually experience. Any ideas as to why and what I can do to help? With the first cold snap of winter forcing us to don our scarves and gloves and to crank up the heating our skin can start to manifest a whole host of unsightly changes. Read on and I’ll walk you through a winter wonderland of tips to winter proof your skin. Dry and flaky. Any moisturiser worth entertaining should contain ingredients that are found in our skin. I use and recommend to my clients products that contain Hyaluronic acid, the moisture binding component of the dermis. Apply your moisturiser to slightly damp skin this will further enhance its humectant properties and make your product go a little further. Uncomfortable tightness. Dehydration is the term coined by the cosmetic industry to describe the tight, crepey appearance that’s down to a lack of water in the skin. It’s a lot more complex than this, however, upping your fluid intake can help. Limit diuretics like caffeine and increase water and herbal teas. Buy a humidifier for your home or office to create a more hydrating atmosphere for your skin. Spotty, oily skin. If your skin is parched it will try and help out by secreting more oil onto the skin. This can lead to an oily shine and blocked follicles resulting in outbreaks. Gentle exfoliation will sweep the pores clean and limit spotty eruptions. Using a product containing AHA’s will be more effective and can also re- balance the oil secreting glands. it’s still important to protect your skin with an SPF everyday despite the lack of sun, since UV rays are present all year round. A change of season is the perfect excuse for booking a professional facial. I offer skin health checks as part of my treatments to reassess your skin and ensure you get that healthy, rosy winter glow. Your Questions Answered Do you have a question you would like to ask Louise? Email or write in to Town & About and we will feature a selection in the publication. mail@townandaboutmagazine.co.uk Beauty Secrets Town & About Starre Corner Cottage Dereham Road, Colkirk Fakenham, Norfolk NR21 7NQ 029

mail@townandaboutmagazine.co.ukTo advertise call 01328 851211 Summer Field House 45 Norwich Road Dereham Appointments 01362-696079 Opening Hours Mon-Fri 8.30am - 7pm Cameron Reid - Keeping You ActiveDereham Osteopathic Clinic Informative talks given by Cameron Reid to Societies, Clubs, Sports Clubs or Teams. To arrange a talk call, email creidosteopath@hotmail.com Phone or email cameronreidtraining@hotmail .co.uk Lower Absenteeism, Improve Health of Staff, Reduce Company Costs. A lot of people give up exercising, eg running or the gym because they have developed an injury, This is commonly because they have done “too much too soon”. Exercising 5 days a week when you haven’t exercised for 5 years is a common mistake, causing a strain on the body, It will be only a matter of time before a problem starts. Stopping sport all together is often unnecessary. Treatment and a carefully controlled return to activity will be required. y Osteopathsdo not just treat back pain. At the clinic we see a number of professional and amateur sportsmen and women. Osteopathic treatment will help the body heal quickly, enabling it to become pain free, and strengthen.A gradual return to sport with a preventative care plan in place will be necessary. People take up exercise for a variety of reasons; they have more time on their hands, they wish to get fit, or lose weight. Remember, it takes time for the body to strengthen and a sensible exercise program will help. A common Sports Injury is knee pain. Knee pain which has come on gradually in someone is often due to stressing the joint too much before it has a chance to strengthen. This may not be the only reason, but one of the most common. Resting for a couple of weeks will not cure the problem and it will return. In this case a visit to your Osteopath will help - a detailed history will be taken, followed by a full mechanical assessment to find out the real cause and what steps will need to be taken to solve the problem. This will involve treatment, rehabilitation and a gradual return to activity A healthy word of warning for all those people who are lucky enough to receive a WII Fit gift for Christmas. The WII Fit is one of the best fitness games I have seen for a long time, in fact so enjoyable that some of you are likely to get carried away this Christmas and cause yourself an injury! I have had a number of patients with arm and shoulder injuries due to excessive amounts of boxing on their WII. Remember there is nothing wrong with losing gracefully even if your opponent is a computer!! He may look unfit and overweight but don’t forget the saying“Too Much Too Soon”. He has been doing it for years! Finally, we would like to wish you a very Merry Christmas from all at the Dereham Osteopathic Clinic. The practice will close for the Christmas period at 1pm on 24th December and reopen on Monday 29th December. Cameron Reid 030

Town & About 2008To advertise call 01328 851211 031 Plain and simple, most people look great with a tan— teeth look whiter, you even look leaner. Not only does it make you look great, but looking better helps you to feel better about yourself — more confident, sexy, more powerful. The better you feel about yourself, the more you will look after your health in other ways, and the more confident you will feel with others. At Glamorous Mobile Spray Tan, the benefit to the customer is that the spray tan is done in the comfort of your own home. No more walking through town in old clothes and flip flops to avoid damaging the tan or staining clothes. Annmarie can set up the whole spray tan system in 5 minutes in your own home. There is no mess and it only takes half an hour of your time.

mail@townandaboutmagazine.co.ukTo advertise call 01328 851211 SUPPORTA CARE FULL AND PART TIME DOMOCILLARY CARE WORKERS NEEDED IN THE FOLLOWING AREAS NORTH ELMHAM, DEREHAM, BAWDESWELL, LYNG, HOCKERING,COSTESSEY, LONG STRATTON,NEWTON FLOTMAN, AND SURROUNDING AREAS ENHANCED RATE FOR EVENINGS WEEKENDS AND BANK HOLIDAYS, MILEAGE ALLOWANCE Supporta Care will provide you with induction training and ongoing training. Please phone (01953) 850010 for further information and an application pack. A new Recruitment Agency specialising in Supply Chain & Engineering has set up in Dereham. Cowper Recruitment, under the ownership of Barry Gough, has its offices adjacent to Cowper Car Park and Cowper Road; this really does put Supply Chain & Engineering recruitment right at the heart of Norfolk! In times of a troubled employment market, it is good to know that a man of Barry’s excellence and experience is specialising in this very important sector. “Supply chain & engineering is a very important industry in Norfolk” said Barry Gough. “The multitude of local companies employ a considerable number of specialists from engineers, procurement, manufacturing, finance, transportation, delivery, designers, IT and admin support. At Cowper Recruitment we have the specialist skills to best fit the right person to the right job.” Barry certainly walks the walk and talks the talk. He really understands his industry. In April he gave up a very rewarding job as Supply Chain & Operations Manager with a leading Promotional Leisurewear company in Royston. Having seen the requirement for a specialist recruitment agency that understands the people and the industry, he set up Cowper Recruitment in July this year. Barry’s last 11 years were spent in the rag trade, where he would regularly have to fly off to Europe, Middle East or Far East to trouble-shoot on behalf of his company, and his previous 31 years were spent as an engineer in the RAF. “There are a lot of engineering and supply chain companies in Norfolk, but it takes a keen eye to find the right company match for the individual.” he said. “At Cowper Recruitment, we work on behalf of the company and the individual, making sure we achieve the best match.” Barry is supported by a full professional team. The key players are Julie-Ann (Finance Director), Marika (Customer Services Manager) and Colin an experienced recruitment consultant. When you speak to Cowper Recruitment the gear wheels of recruitment go into immediate action because they understand the terms and speak the lingo. With such broad experience, Cowper Recruitment has clients as far away as Ipswich, Hitchin and Oxford, and candidates coming from as far as Leeds, Swindon, Romford and Manchester. With offices situated on Cowper Car Park in Dereham, the company also provides jobs in areas from Car Mechanics to Marine Engineers, Office Juniors to Finance Directors, Cleaning Staff to Food Processors, for temporary, contract and permanent positions including cover for maternity, paternity and adoption. So what makes Cowper Recruitment different? Well, if recruitment is their game, then quality is their goal, and customer satisfaction their match. “Our aim is simply to exceed the expectations of those we serve,” said Barry. “Our service is free for candidates and our remittance backed guarantee, along with our corporate membership of the Recruitment and Employment Confederation, imparts terrific confidence in our clients.” In these times, computers play a major part of managing a recruitment agency. Cowper Recruitment recognise the importance of the Internet and have invested in an excellent website www.cowperrecruitment.co.uk produced by Wicked Websites. “The site is very well designed and produced and will become a key part of our business. Companies and job-seekers will benefit from a visit - it’s fun, informative and very whizzy!” said Barry. Whether you are an employer or job- seeker or you have a recruitment requirement you should call Cowper Recruitment today. You’ll be assured of a friendly welcome, a professional and experienced approach, and a very enthusiastic response. COWPER RECRUITMENT – A NEW LINK IN SUPPLY CHAIN & ENGINEERING BARRY GOUGH MILT; MInstLM; AMInstTA Managing Director - Cowper Recruitment Limited 032 Cartridge Exchange has been running for 4 years and has become a leading supplier of new and recycled inkjet and laser toner cartridges. We supply home users, businesses and schools, not only in Norfolk but across the country and are able to offer considerable savings on the cost of printer cartridges –whether it’s just one cartridge or many. Cartridge Exchange is looking for an experiencedtelesales account manager to bring on new customers and keep in touch with existing customers. The role is commission-only based and requires the successful applicant to be self-employed. The successful applicant will receive 50% of all profit they generate – an ideal opportunity for a motivated self-starter. If you are interested in this vacancy please send your CV to Lorna Knowles, Cartridge Exchange, Unit 4 Astra Court, Greens Road, Dereham, Norfolk, NR20 3TR. TELESALES ACCOUNT MANAGER

Town & About 2008To advertise call 01328 851211 A little me time... Louisa and Cameron have recently completed the renovation of outbuildings at the rear of their home in Norwich Road where Cameron holds his osteopathic clinic. Louisa, a busy Mum herself, welcomed me into one of the beautifully clean and streamlined therapy rooms and at once I got that lovely warm glow that descends when you finally 'make it over the wall' and into the safety of a sanctuary such as this. The lighting was dim and a gorgeous, heady aroma filled the air. After a short medical questionnaire, Louisa explained to me about the type of massage that she uses and interestingly, what each individual might gain from it. Today I was unashamedly selfish and bombarded her with the story of my headaches and how they dogged my life too frequently for my liking. A patient and very understanding listener, Louisa and I concluded that although not the single cause, the main exacerbation of the problem was our good old friend, STRESS! Whilst massage can not remove the underlying anxieties in our everyday lives, I truly can see now that what we carry in our heads and hearts is transferred with vengeance to our muscles. Having never experienced this treatment before, I admit it did take a while for me to 'relax'. Louisa had positioned me on my front, covered with me with warm towels and had supported my head and neck in a safe and comfortable manner - but she could immediately tell that I was still 'rigid'. Gentle manipulation and soothing but firm movement across my back, neck and shoulders, slowly made the tension subside and I could feel myself gradually giving-in to the massage. Much to Louisa's relief, I am sure, I stopped talking and just let my body absorb the benefits of the treatment. The most significant part for me, however, came when she concentrated the movements at the base of my neck and across the top of my shoulders. Louisa asked me if I was aware if these areas felt any different – “Those are the places,” I told her, “that I press with my knuckles when I have a migraine.” She worked gently around these areas, explaining that she preferred to build up the massage of these key areas gradually. Some 45 minutes or so later, I was asked to roll on to my back and Louisa began the massage of my face and head. This was obviously a much gentler pressure but amazingly relaxing at the same time. Using a rose hip dry oil, she proceeded to treat my face, shoulders, head and back of my neck. As well as the combination of holistic massage techniques, Louisa also incorporates some joint manipulation which in this case involved gentle stretching of my legs, arms and feet. Alongside this, she worked on certain Acupressure points on my neck and also my face, which involved specifically my temples and the area around my eyes. Again I recognised these areas as places I often feel the need to apply pressure to myself when the headache is really bad. The treatment complete, I left Louisa's a very different person to the one that had arrived. Booked in for a follow-up session for the next month, I was eager to see if there would be any marked improvement on my headaches. Some two months further on, I can now report that I have had much less in the way of headaches and only one migraine as opposed to my regular three per month. I am still popping the preventative pills to be on the safe side but find that I have had to take much less in the way of pain relief. The treatment is obviously helping with my symptoms and I am confident there will further improvement still; but this doesn't mean this is my only reason for becoming a convert. The massage helps with so many things in a woman's life. The stress that accumulates in our tissues, muscles and joints in the head, neck and shoulders can emerge in many other guises in our bodies such as headache, insomnia, poor digestion and many more unwelcome conditions - this form of therapy seems a fantastic way of relieving many of them. If you have no obvious problems you need treating, this is still for you - any woman can benefit from the improved circulation, lymphatic drainage and general feeling of well-being that the massage induces, not to mention that all important little bit of 'me time'. Call Louisa on 01362 696079 or email:louisareid@hotmail.com for further information or to make an appointment. Massage can help decrease the frequency of regular headaches and some types of migraine pain. By treating muscles of the head, neck, shoulder & face area using specific but gentle massage techniques, muscular tension is released that only too often leads to a headache. If the situation is left for too long in susceptible people, migraine may develop and become persistently frequent unless the problem is addressed . Constantly tense muscles cause the person to develop poor posture increasing the amount of pain. The treatment incorporates a massage plan which in this case, is used to decrease pain and muscle spasm, and increase relaxation and mobility. A more specific massage is appropriate which includes soft tissue work to the upper back as well as the neck & face. Facial massage is an important part of the treatment as muscles of the face directly or indirectly attach to the scalp and operate the jaw areas where tension commonly accumulates. It is important to recognize that stress does exist and does play a role in the cycle; a way to help deal with this is to receive regular professional massage; just one massage a month can go a long way. Symptoms & causes of Migraine vary. In women a Migraine can appear to precede menstruation & may ease at onset of menstruation. In these cases, massage lessens the effect of hormonal change & can lessen the migraine intensity. For these patients an appointment 2 weeks before onset would be an ideal time to help prevent migraine. Louisa works closely with her husband, Osteopath, Cameron Reid, his comments on Migraines are: “In the practice I have a lot of migraine patients referred to me; most of these people will have a low grade headache for maybe weeks preceding the onset of the migraine. From an Osteopath’s point of view this is when you need to see the patient as once the migraine has started it is not ideal to treat. An Osteopath is trained to identify and treat the cause - followed by a professional massage this is good preventative care. 033

mail@townandaboutmagazine.co.ukTo advertise call 01328 851211 034 Foot Care Animals & PetsFinancial Vehicle RentalsTaxi Services Removals & Storage Music Tuition Solar Energy Shopping www.hellosavings.co.uk Christmas Shopping? Save at

Town & About 2008To advertise call 01328 851211

mail@townandaboutmagazine.co.ukTo advertise call 01328 851211