STRICTLY BUSINESS FEB 2012

Strictlybusiness

ONLINE MAGAZINE

February 2012

TO ADVERTISE IN THE NEXT EDITION OF THIS MAGAZINE Email [email protected]

7 Pinbush Close, South Lowestoft Industrial Est, Lowestoftwww.dreaminstallations.org.uk

Genuine 25% Discount on all quotes leading to orders

in February

01502 585620 LANDLORD DISCOUNTS AVAILABLE –

Ring for further details, ask for Glenn or Roy

ConservatoriesConservatories

WindowsDoors Fascias

Glass Balustrade Garage Doors Flat Roofs

LOCAL BUSINESSACHIEVES NATIONALRECOGNITIONJ.P.R. DecoratingSpecialist, a local companyemploying skilled locallabour, has recently beenawarded membership

of The Guild of MasterCraftsmen. Membershipwas granted by The Guild'sCouncil of Management inrecognition of thecompany's commitment towork with skill andintegrity, and its agreementto abide by The Guild'spublicly declared aims andobjectives. This followsapproval of referencessubmitted by a number ofJ.P.R. DecoratingSpecialist’s satis�edcustomers.

The company is nowentitled to display TheGuild logo at its premises,on company vehicles andall stationery items.Membership of The Guildof Master Craftsmen o�ermany bene�ts to thoseable to satisfy the selectioncriteria. These includeassistance in marketingskills and techniques,recommendations andadvice for managing agrowing business, andparticipation in manyspecially negotiated cost-reduction schemes.

The Guild is a nationalorganisation, withmembers in many di�erenttrades, crafts andvocations. Applications formembership from suitablyquali�ed individuals andorganisations are alwayswelcome.

No matter how big or small the job, we are prepared toprovide quotations at highly competitive rates.

Contact: John Rimmer Mobile: 07849 039508Email: [email protected]

Where Quality Matters • Est. 13 Years

At JPR Decorating Specialist we offer all aspects of Decorating

from:Internal and External

DecorationsWallpaper Hanging

Stain & VarnishDecorative Finishes

CovingAirless Spraying

Fire & Water DamageArtex Repairs

Channel 4 Make Over ShowJPR Decorating Specialist has just �nished �lming for a new T.V home makeover show. We felt very honoured to be asked to take part in the show. We were very pleased to work alongside celebrity Amanda Lamb and the rest of the crew. The show will be on T.V early 2012.

www.jpr-decoratingspecialist.co.uk

Michael Jennings, Amanda Lamb, John Rimmer.

Mitsubishi Outlander 2.2 Di-D GX4 SSTTHERE ARE 4x4s and there are hardcore mud-pluggers. Mitsubishi’s Outlander fallssomewhere in-between. The SUV (Sport Utility Vehicle) crossover is too handsome and well-mannered to be hammered across �elds, rocks and hills every day, but it is more than capable of handling slippery winter roads and muddy �elds with ease. It is also robust and powerful enough to be used as a decent towing vehicle.

Based on the same new platform as the even better looking ASX, the well-built Outlander bridges the gap between Mitsubishi’s conventional passenger cars and its hardcore o�-roaders, like the Shogun and L200. Practical, versatile, sleek, dynamic, rewarding enough to drive and fun, the Outlander is as perfect for the school run on road as it is for gobbling up luggage and venturing o� the tarmac occasionally.

With a new e�cient 2.2-litre turbo diesel engine the Outlander o�ers respectable, although not mind-blowing, performance - it takes a yawn-inducing 11.1 seconds to get from a standing start to 62 mph. That said, you won’t be buying a vehicle like this to see how fast it can get o� the lights. Fuel economy and low emissions are excellent - I got around 39 mpg out of the SUV over the week I drove it. The new diesel engine also brings with it a choice of two six-speed gearboxes - there’s a manual, or the quick, slick Twin-Clutch Sports Shift Transmission (TC-SST) which was �tted to my GX4 press demo.

The Outlander’s o�-road capabilities are thanks to its All Wheel Control (AWC) technology. The system is designed to allow the Outlander to perfectly tackle all weathers – providing maximum traction, safety and stability in snow, on ice, in heavy rain, on mud, or simply to �nd the most possible grip in the dry. AWC oversees the operation of the electronically-controlled 4WD system, the ABS braking with Electronic Brake Distribution and the high-tech Active Stability and Traction Control systems. These systems give the Outlander great composure and o�er you fabulous security and great sure-footedness. Operating the system couldn’t be easier, with a rotary controller allowing you to toggle between three settings in an instant: 2WD, using only front wheel drive, for maximum fuel economy on dry paved roads. 4WD, shifting 30 percent of available torque to the rear wheels for added traction on slippery surfaces. And LOCK mode, with torque shifted to the rear wheels up to 50 percent on demand, for extreme weather or unanticipated terrain.

Aesthetically, the Outlander looks good from the outside. A bold, distinctive Jet Fighter grille and headlamps make it stand out from its crossover competition. A sleek pro�le, boldly �ared wheel arches and LED wrap-around tail lights further enhance its visual appeal. Practical touches such as its integrated roof-rails and its very useful split tailgate make you like the Mitsubishi even more. Inside, the Outlander has a sporty elegance; soft padding around the centre instrument panel and door trim as well as silver accents either side of the audio system and along the door panels help create a high quality ambience.

Behind the wheel the Outlander has a commanding driving position, yet because of its excellent manners and road holding the Mitsubishi feels more like a conventional car. The hooded instrument binnacle, within which nestle dials taking inspiration from motorcycle design, creates the perfect driving environment, o�ering �rst rate visibility. Comfort behind the multi-function steering wheel is good, being adjustable for both rake and reach, while rear seat passengers bene�t from leg and headroom. And there’s the ‘Fold2Hide’ third row of seats, which simply fold out from beneath the �oor to create an extra pair of seats (with integrated head rests), allowing seven to travel in comfort and style e�ortlessly. And, with the rear seats folded, the Outlander o�ers a maximum of 1,691 litres of luggage space – easily enough to pack in two mountain bikes.

PROS ‘N’ CONS · Versatile √· Well built √· Comfortable√· Good for towing √· Sluggish acceleration X

FAST FACTS · Max speed: 123 mph· 0-62 mph: 11.1 secs· Combined mpg: 39.2· Engine: 2179 cc turbo diesel· Max. power (bhp): 154 at 4400 rpm· Max. torque (Ib/ft): 280 at 2000 rpm· Max. towing weight (braked) 2000 kg· CO2: 189 g/km· Price: £28,999 on the road

Mitsubishi Outlander 2.2 Di-D GX4 SST By Tim Barnes-Clay, Motoring Writerwww.carwriteups.co.uk Twitter: @carwriteups

THERE ARE 4x4s and there are hardcore mud-pluggers. Mitsubishi’s Outlander fallssomewhere in-between. The SUV (Sport Utility Vehicle) crossover is too handsome and well-mannered to be hammered across �elds, rocks and hills every day, but it is more than capable of handling slippery winter roads and muddy �elds with ease. It is also robust and powerful enough to be used as a decent towing vehicle.

Based on the same new platform as the even better looking ASX, the well-built Outlander bridges the gap between Mitsubishi’s conventional passenger cars and its hardcore o�-roaders, like the Shogun and L200. Practical, versatile, sleek, dynamic, rewarding enough to drive and fun, the Outlander is as perfect for the school run on road as it is for gobbling up luggage and venturing o� the tarmac occasionally.

With a new e�cient 2.2-litre turbo diesel engine the Outlander o�ers respectable, although not mind-blowing, performance - it takes a yawn-inducing 11.1 seconds to get from a standing start to 62 mph. That said, you won’t be buying a vehicle like this to see how fast it can get o� the lights. Fuel economy and low emissions are excellent - I got around 39 mpg out of the SUV over the week I drove it. The new diesel engine also brings with it a choice of two six-speed gearboxes - there’s a manual, or the quick, slick Twin-Clutch Sports Shift Transmission (TC-SST) which was �tted to my GX4 press demo.

The Outlander’s o�-road capabilities are thanks to its All Wheel Control (AWC) technology. The system is designed to allow the Outlander to perfectly tackle all weathers – providing maximum traction, safety and stability in snow, on ice, in heavy rain, on mud, or simply to �nd the most possible grip in the dry. AWC oversees the operation of the electronically-controlled 4WD system, the ABS braking with Electronic Brake Distribution and the high-tech Active Stability and Traction Control systems. These systems give the Outlander great composure and o�er you fabulous security and great sure-footedness. Operating the system couldn’t be easier, with a rotary controller allowing you to toggle between three settings in an instant: 2WD, using only front wheel drive, for maximum fuel economy on dry paved roads. 4WD, shifting 30 percent of available torque to the rear wheels for added traction on slippery surfaces. And LOCK mode, with torque shifted to the rear wheels up to 50 percent on demand, for extreme weather or unanticipated terrain.

Aesthetically, the Outlander looks good from the outside. A bold, distinctive Jet Fighter grille and headlamps make it stand out from its crossover competition. A sleek pro�le, boldly �ared wheel arches and LED wrap-around tail lights further enhance its visual appeal. Practical touches such as its integrated roof-rails and its very useful split tailgate make you like the Mitsubishi even more. Inside, the Outlander has a sporty elegance; soft padding around the centre instrument panel and door trim as well as silver accents either side of the audio system and along the door panels help create a high quality ambience.

Behind the wheel the Outlander has a commanding driving position, yet because of its excellent manners and road holding the Mitsubishi feels more like a conventional car. The hooded instrument binnacle, within which nestle dials taking inspiration from motorcycle design, creates the perfect driving environment, o�ering �rst rate visibility. Comfort behind the multi-function steering wheel is good, being adjustable for both rake and reach, while rear seat passengers bene�t from leg and headroom. And there’s the ‘Fold2Hide’ third row of seats, which simply fold out from beneath the �oor to create an extra pair of seats (with integrated head rests), allowing seven to travel in comfort and style e�ortlessly. And, with the rear seats folded, the Outlander o�ers a maximum of 1,691 litres of luggage space – easily enough to pack in two mountain bikes.

WWW.ORCHARDCARAVANS.COMGreat Eastern Way,Wells-next-the- Sea, Norfolk Tel: 01328 710394

ORCHARDCARAVANS

This quiet exclusive caravan park with 51 holiday plots is situated right on the edge of town a few minutes walk from the shops, quay and the town's central green, the Buttlands. Catering for the more discerning tourist the park is maintained and operated to a very high standard indeed entrance and exit is by a card operated barrier. Open for 11 months of the year from 1st March to the 31st January owners can enjoy Christmas and New Year in this beautiful part of North Norfolk.

The Caravan park is licenced for Holiday use only and is strictly non residential.

For further details on plot availibility, please contact us on 01328-710394

ORCHARD CARAVAN PARK

Wells-next-the-seaHere's a glorious view of Wells harbour to greet you as you stroll along the pathway on what is known as the beach bank. The quayside and marina are very popular with visitors, here children and grown ups can take part in gillying, a long standing tradition, children usually get completely engrossed, and it's not a computer game, whilst the grown ups console themselves with a nice cold pint from one of the local pubs.

Take the mile long walk along the beach bank to the Pinewoods, from the lifeboat house, you can walk 5 miles to Burnham Overy Staithe along some of the best sandy beaches in the country. On the way back pick your way through the sand dunes and pinewoods and back to the town centre, by this time you should be ready for a relaxing evening meal in one of the many pubs and restaurants all ready to serve you.

CARAVAN PARKS IN NORFOLK THAT WE SUPPLY HOLIDAY CARAVANS TO Pinewood Holiday Park, Cromer, Norfolk Forest Park Ivy Farm Holiday Park Merryhill Naturist Club Friary Farm Caravan Park Waveney Valley Lakes Inglenook Caravan Park Rising Sun Caravan Park Snettisham Caravan Park Walcott Holiday Park Woodland Caravan Park Trimingham Golden Beach Caravan Park Sea Palling The Hero Caravan Park, Burnham Overy Staithe Beach Park Caravan Park, Snettisham Diglea Caravan Park, Snettisham

For more details of any of these parks please contact Orchard Caravans

Cromer crab

Ingredients

2 boiled crabs 4 tbsp fresh white breadcrumbs 1 lemon, juice only 2 tbsp malt vinegar Salt Pinch of cayenne pepper 50 g grated cheddar chees

Method: How to make Cromer crabLay the crabs on their backs and twist o� the claws and legs and set aside. Pull the body and shell apart and discard any green matter and the so-called 'dead man's �ngers' (the greyish gills). Scoop out all the meat from the shells and put in a mixing bowl. Crack the claws with a hammer to obtain all the white meat and add to the dark meat.

1

2 Mix the breadcrumbs with the lemon juice, vinegar, salt and cayenne. Add half of this to the crab meat and mix well. Clean the shells and pile in the crab mixture. Top with the remaining breadcrumb mixture and grated cheese and bake in a hot oven 220C/Gas 7 for 10-15 minutes until the cheese is brown.

BANISH THOSE LACK OF SPACE BLUES FOR GOOD!

SO here’s the scenario, you have friends over for supper and the sitting room is still in need of a toy-removing tidy up, also there’s that corner where you try desperately to work from home on the laptop which still has a tottering tower of �les and folders out on show. Wouldn’t it be lovely if you could wave a wand and all that clutter would disappear from view, leaving a calm, grown up space for you all to enjoy.

A Su�olk-based company called

has been busy designing Space Creators. They are cleverly constructed canvas ‘walls’ to �t any shape and size of home, with installation in seconds they can be used as a temporary or permanent addition to any home. They come in all sorts of colours, are �tted in minutes and can also have windows and zip doors too. The idea came from MD Sarah Blum who’s other business is Sail and Cover, designing, mending and cleaning sails for yachts at Woolverstone Marina.

The Darn Barn

The Darn BarnAlso produces brightly coloured bean bags, garden hammocks and sun shades and cute, mini-sized Space Creators for children’s playrooms. The children’s versions have their own clear plastic windows in animal shapes and special doors for little ones which can be rolled up out of the way during play if needed.

With most of us needing to �nd solutions to our space issues in our homes these ‘walls’ could work for you. If you work from home, have a growing family or both, these new Space Creating walls seem an ideal solution. For more information log onto www.sailandcover.co.uk or call Sarah on 01473 780075 and ask about her Space Creating canvas walls. Follow them on Twitter @sailandcover

www.sailandcover.co.uk

BEFORE

AFTER

Downham Market

www.visitnorfolk.co.uk

The ancient saxon town of Downham Market is a delightful place to visit and is one of Norfolk's oldest market towns. Considered by many to be the gateway to the Fens, and with a network of waterways close by plus lots to see and do in the town and surrounding area, Downham Market is a great place for a weekend break in Norfolk.

Shopping in Downham MarketDownham Market certainly lives up to its name having two outdoor markets a week, on Fridays and Saturdays. Very popular with locals and visitors, the market is packed with stalls selling local produce including jams, juices, cheese and breads along with much more. A recent addition to the Saturday market includes a Crafts and Collectables Market, every fortnight in the town square. Around the town you will also �nd plenty of shops to browse, including some delightful independent stores and boutiques.

Where to eat in Downham MarketThere are plenty of places to satisfy every taste in Downham Market. From cream teas to hearty pub meals, there is a great range of places to eat. A local favourite is the Crown Hotel with its traditional feel; the Downham Tandoori and Balti House satis�es those with spicy appetites, while the Hare Arms Inn & Restaurant about two miles from the town centre o�ers a delicious menu if you're looking for somewhere special.

What's on in Downham MarketThe town also holds a number of events throughout the year including its annual festival and carnival, St Winnold's Fayre, a music festival and even a water festival with Dragon Boat Racing, sailing displays, free arts events on the town square and plenty to entertain children. There's also lots of events on at Church Farm rare breeds centre throughout the year, including Craft Sundays, a Medieval Pageant in August, and celebrations at Halloween and Christmas. Or for a nature spectacle, visit WWT Welney for the Festival of Swans in November, when 9,000 migratory Whooper and Bewick's swans return for the winter

‘A’ Rated Windows available10 year insurance backed guarantee Employed workforce Local Company

7 Pinbush Close, South Lowestoft Industrial Est, Lowestoftwww.dreaminstallations.org.uk

Est

2003O

penM

on-Fri8 to 5

Genuine 25% Discount on all quotes leading to orders

in February

01502 585620 LANDLORD DISCOUNTS AVAILABLE – Ring for further details, ask for Glenn or Roy

ConservatoriesConservatories

WindowsDoors Fascias

Bi-Folding Doors Secondary Double Glazing

Glass Balustrade Garage Doors Flat Roofs

Just some of the books you can �ndAt Famous Five Plus

www.famous�veplus.blogspot.com

is a small working art studio in this pretty village near the coast, producing original pen and ink drawings, coastal maps,lino-cuts, driftwood sculptures, prints, cards, gifts, funky key-rings

(wooden �sh and oyster shells), and unique �sh, whales, prawns and lobsters made from beach found wood and ephemera, and pieces of abandoned boats collected from North Norfolk beaches and the marsh.

The Fish and Ships Studio is at Andrew`s home, and is open by appointment and on Open Studio days, if you wish to see his work. Do come and see us and �nd a quirky gift to remind you of what a great time

you have had here in North Norfolk! Prices start at only £5.

Fish and Ships Coastal Art (just up the drive opposite the Burnham Market Stores), Seashell, Ulph Place, Burnham Market. PE31 8HQ.

www.�sh-and-ships.com

It has been quite a journey so far in 2011 we were �nalists in the best supporting business category of the Mumpreneur UK awards which we were delighted with, we were then awarded a place in the �nals of the Great British Care awards, and a place in the good nanny agency guide so pretty good going for such a young company. You can imagine our joy when we found out last week that we had been awarded a place in the top 100 Mumpreneur businesses in the UK, wow what a way to start 2012! Lucy and I have worked tirelessly to create a business model which addresses the needs of families requiring high quality care at a�ordable prices, our testimonials speak for themselves but it is wonderful to receive this recognition for our e�orts.We are immensely proud of our achievements and the excellent team of sta� that we have recruited. The social impact of our business model has been huge, we have placed many care workers and nannies with families of special needs and main stream children and young people whilst supporting our chosen charities. Through our work so far and help from the Masonic Hale lodge based in Harrow we have donated £1000 to a wonderful Cambodian charity “Thoeuns Trust “ Ingrid Morris the founder explains how the donation will be used. “As a journalist I’m not often lost for words – but I don’t know how to thank you enough for the cheque that arrived in the post this weekend. It’s a huge sum; even more so in Cambodia where money goes a long way. It will, for example, fund more than a quarter of all the desks, chairs, blackboards and teaching equipment needed for a village school serving 400 children. Our second school opened this month and I’ll be going to Cambodia in January to visit it and to determine the site of the next project. Every last pound of your amazing donation will be put into that project and I’ll obviously keep you posted on progress when building work gets under way” www.thoeunstrust.com We wish you all a very happy, healthy and prosperous 2012. Lorraine and Lucy www.jcsp.org.uk

Lynn Willert Hypnotherapy has developed a revolutionary weight loss system without the need for dieting or invasive surgical procedures.

Those that perpetually try and fail at diets often see a gastric band or bypass as their last and best option for permanent weight loss. However, surgery is both expensive and high risk.

Our ‘Band For Health’ is a real alternative and a guaranteed method for signi�cant and lasting weight loss. With only four sessions we help you visualise a surgical procedure and its impacts. Through suggestion and visualisation alone we can reprogram your mind to believe that your stomach is smaller and therefore fuller. This natural restriction on your calorie intake is a long-term solution to your weight problems. The process uses hypnotherapy NLP and cognitive behavioural techniques to help you achieve your ideal weight and stay there!

Put all fad diets and thoughts of surgery behind you! Contact us now to �nd out more or arrange an appointment.

Telephone: 01502 518275

Email: [email protected]

www.lynnwillert-hypnotherapy.co.uk

Gastric ‘Hypno-Band’The alternative to dieting and gastric surgery

Raising money for the Norfolk & Norwich University Hospital’s Cancer and Haematology Department

Tickets only

£35.00

Getting all of Norfolk’s �nest Bors and Gals together for a bootyful meal, a few drinks, a charity auction and a good ol’ knees up to raise money for a good’un of a cause!

For more information, or to book your tickets please contact us now on:

[email protected]

Amy - 07557 0435 77Jess - 07557 0472 13

Come you on, lets show ’em how its done!

Nelson's CountyCharity Ball 201226th May 2012 – The Royal Norfolk Showground

Registered charity number 1048170

www.nelsonscountyball.co.uk

www.norfolkhideaways.co.uk

Opened in Feb 2009 with 6 houses, now we have over 160 properties in our portfolio.

We delivered 1675 holidays last year valued at £1.25 million.

25.1% of our guests booking this year to date are repeat guests from last year.

We are now ranked No. 2 on Google for the search term Norfolk Cottages and No. 1 for Holiday Cottages Norfolk

We manage the housekeeping for nearly 50 properties and employ local ladies to look after the houses

2011 our bookings were up 26% from 2010 and we are looking to smash that this year

norfolk hideaways

Hetti believes that the huge success of her business is due in no small part to the increasing trend for Brits to holiday at home and the fact that for a lot of second

homeowners their lovely Norfolk Hideaways need to contribute something to their upkeep for them to continue to be viable.

a real norfolk success story....

Our aim is to �nd everyone their perfect self-catering holiday cottage in North Norfolk for the perfect coastal holiday.

www.NorfolkHolidayGuide.com

2012 EVENTS IN NORFOLKfrom NORFOLK HOLIDAY GUIDE

Do you want some entertainment during your holiday in Norfolk? Do you want something to keep the kids happy? Are you interested in gardening, steam train rides, carnivals and fetes, vintage and classic cars, art, theatre, music – classical, jazz, modern? Whether you are a local or a visitor, there is something to interest everyone.

Take a look at the father and daughter run website, here at www.norfolkholidayguide.com, where you will �nd an extensive ‘Events/What’s On’ listing of events throughout Norfolk, from January to December.

Whether you want a stroll round a country garden or a ride on a steam train, listen quietly to classical music or dance ‘til you drop at a music concert, treat the kids to an Easter egg hunt, take them to a scary Halloween themed event or meet Father Christmas by train there is an event for you somewhere in beautiful Norfolk.

You will �nd them all on Norfolk Holiday Guide’s Events Listing, with links to the events’ own articles and websites where you will �nd all the information you need to plan your activity.

Key events planned so far this year include:-An array of events throughout the year at Fairhaven Themed train rides throughout the yearEast Anglian Dragon Boat Festival Festival Too Martham CarnivalWells-next-the-Sea Carnival Sandringham Flower Show VW Whitenoise music festivalNorwich Motor Show and Family Fun Event North Norfolk Music FestivalMusical performances in the Marble Hall at Holkham and more

Don’t forget to keep visiting our website as the list is constantly growing, as we discover on your behalf more and more exciting events taking place in the popular county of Norfolk.

If you have an event you would like us to promote for you, we are happy to do so FREE OF CHARGE. Please contact us via email: [email protected] or call 01280 860146.

We would also like to extend our November 2011 offer. Readers of Strictly Business Magazine qualify for 50% off our advertising costs – 12 months advertising for just £50! We look forward to helping you promote your business in 2012.

Richard Alston Dance Company 2012Tuesday 14th February - Wednesday 15th February 2012(Dance)

Music and dance come together in exquisite harmony in the choreography of Richard Alston. No other dance company places such emphasis on the importance of music and the deep magic it can conjure together with movement.

RADC’s programme features two brand new Alston pieces, to strikingly di�erent music. A CEREMONY OF CAROLS is choreographed to Benjamin Britten’s masterpiece for boys’ voices and harp. The music is of magisterial simplicity, conjuring up a rich world of rapt and devout adoration; the dance is a celebration of a sheer surge of breath, a purestream of sound. The second new Alston piece is performed to Mozart’s achingly beautiful Piano Sonata No.15.

Under 25s Special Price:Bands A & B £6 all perfs

Group Rates:All perfs - call for details

MEET RICHARD ALSTONRichard Alston will give a FREE pre-performance talk at 6.30pm on Tuesday 14 February. He will speak about the evening’s programme and answer any questions you might have about his company and his choreography. Because places are limited, tickets must be booked in www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk

Paul Violet [email protected] 01992 899036

An article by Paul Violet, who had worked in �nancial services for over 45 years.

Money! Boring? Worrying? Important? Overrated? We all have a view on money but one thing is for sure, and that is that, like it or not, we can’t do without it.But every day we’re being bombarded with messages of gloom and harder times to come, and although that’s true, do we really need to keep being reminded of it quite so regularly?Well perhaps we do need to be reminded all the time, but is it really helping? How can we convert the messages of gloom into opportunities to create better things to come? Indeed, can we?

I will provide only facts that are in the public domain, if you know where to look! Please be aware that this article contains personal views and comments and none are to be used as a basis for making personal �nancial decisions.

OK, that’s the legal bit, but it seems to me that if we can’t use the information we’re receiving for our good, then we’re missing the point. We’re not supposed to simply batten down the hatches and pray a lot, but we should be looking at what we have and �nding out how to make the best of it.

So what exactly am I talking about? Let’s look at some facts. What do most of us do?1. Find our eyes glazing over at the mention of things like pension funds, equities, securities, bonds etc.2. Become nervous about making decisions that will a�ect our �nancial future.3. Rather make no decision than make one about something we don’t fully understand.

As is the case in many industries, it helps to make things appear complicated. That way most people are a little scared, and therefore rely on experts for advice and assistance.

Now that is no bad thing. We all need experts to help when we don’t understand, but maybe we would understand a little more if things were explained clearly to us.

For instance, perhaps if we knew just how much of our pension fund is ‘lost’ on service charges,or if we were aware of just how much we need to be saving in order to have even a basic retirement fund.

Perhaps if we knew exactly what has been happening to our savings and pensions over the last 10+ years, and what real value they now have…………………..then perhaps we would WANT to know more in order that we could start to take control of our own future!

I have no desire to �ll the next few paragraphs with numbers and percentages, but what I would like to say is that there are two very clear facts of which we should all be aware.

The �rst is that the way in which we have been saving for our future over the last 10-15 years hasn’t worked. The second is that we need to look at the alternatives.

Not a lot to argue with there.I would suggest that, from the many statements made by �nancial experts over the last weeks and months, the best way for individuals to make the most of what they have is “anyone’s guess”. Not a whole lot of help for those who need to understand the options.

So what to do?Well, I would suggest that the �rst port of call should be to someone who will explain, in simple terms, where we (and you) are currently at �nancially. Someone who will explain the options, leaving you to make decisions about your own future. Being a tad biased I could suggest just where to look for that help, but modesty prevents me!!

There is another fact that we really should digest. It is that if we do nothing then nothing good will happen, because the future really is not bright (not even orange!)However, if we do something, then we give ourselves a chance of a brighter future.The something only needs to be to �nd out. That’s step one, then once you’ve found out you can decide whether or not you would like to take step two.

But if you don’t �nd out what the options are, then sure as eggs is eggs, your future will remain as bleak as it may appear.

OK. No article should end on a downer, so let’s all start to look on the bright side. Perhaps there’s no need to go as far as singing the song, but for many there could be a bright side, but you’ll never know if you don’t enquire.

Now before we begin it is important that I point out that I do not and will not provide any financial or investment advice, nor make any financial or investment recommendations.

[email protected] you are interested in advertising in the next edition please email...

Stand out from the CROWD...Stand out from the CROWD...

PETS CORNERPETS CORNERFantastic mini zoo in Oulton Broad, Su�olk

Pets Corner is the perfect day out for all of the family

Why visit Pets Corner?

Wide range of beautiful animalsInteract with our animals by

feeding and pettingRefreshments available in our

brand new T hutFree bouncy castle

Friendly and welcoming atmosphere

We provide a fun day out at a�ordable prices:

Adults £3.90 Children £2.90

Children under three go Free

We are fully licensed by Su�olk County Council.

Visit Pets Corner for a fantastic day for all the family Call us on 01502 563 533

Email: [email protected]

Opening Hours: Easter to November (and all school holidays) - 10am - 5pm seven days a weekWinter months - 10am -5pm weekends only

www.petscornerlowestoft.co.uk

A message for our (future) sponsorsAs we come into February we start running out of milestones.

Christmas has gone as has New Years’. Fortunately we are not too far from Valentine’s Day or Pancake Day in order to

celebrate a special occasion and eat sweet things.

Valentine’s Day is a day for love. For me, working on

Reynard City is a lot like a relationship. You need the other people (because in this context it’s plural!) and you want to

do your bit to please them.

We rely on sponsorship as we want people to be able to

view the comics for free. This is two fold- we’re not big enough for a major publisher yet and we can’t currently

a�ord printing on the scale we’d like to do. What we can do is get the word out.

We include Strictly in this as well obviously! It’s fantastic to be able to keep you updated. While we’re here we recommend getting up to speed on the issues at

www.reynardcity.com in time for Issue 19 Temptress Returns, our �rst issue to feature advert pages. If you want to be a part of this or want more information go to

www.reynardcity.com/advertise or email [email protected]

This is why we have changed the sponsorship packages to include

adverts in the comic itself. We want to give creative people

with projects of their own the chance to show them o� with a space for samples of their work.

We want to do our bit to help local businesses.

Most of all we want to o�er support to the people who o�er

us support. As well as plugging on the site,

we also do this at events such as Norcon 2012 and the recent comedy showcase with UEA

Headlights.

Experience the magic of the Norfolk Broads with Richardson's

Established for over 60 years Richardson's own the largest �eet of cruisers on the Norfolk Broads, a unique and beautiful environment which has gained national and international recognition. Richardson's Group is a family run business started by Mr.R.J.Richardson who hired out his �rst pleasure cruiser from the Stalham boatyard in 1958 having originally started out at Oulton Broad in 1947.

www.richardsonsboatingholidays.co.uk

Richardson's is heavily committed to investing in the manufacture of new cruisers and is in the process of building new boats for its �eet - the �rst to arrive is the Broadsman. We recognise the importance of

conservation and are developing a low wash hull which has less impact on the riverbanks, thus helping to preserve the wonderful wildlife this area is famous for.

We are also introducing new, more e�cient solar panels on our new boats.

The great thing about a Richardson's boating holiday on the Broads is that you can take things at your own pace. You don't need any experience. When you arrive at Richardson's we give you a full demonstration on how to

drive your boat and instructions on all the facilities on board.

Our highly knowledgeable holiday bookings team are here to give advice on which boat best suits your requirements to ensure you have a great holiday.

Richardson's is special because our family has been associated with boats for over 6 generations which is something we are very proud of. We have many loyal customers who return year after year and to thank you we

have our loyalty scheme. Be sure to ask for your loyalty card when you arrive for your holiday.

Please note we do not rehome stray/abandoned cats back to the area they were found. We will shortly have many kittens looking for new homes.

For more information or to �nd out about any other cats that need homes, call the Rehoming line on 07867972870 or visit www.rspcaeastnorfolk.co.uk (charity no 206296) for updates on other animals that require homes.

The adoption fee is £45 per cat and all cats will be microchipped, vaccinated and neutered before being rehomed. They will also be up to date with �ea & worm treatment. This fee in no way covers the amount it costs the RSPCA East Norfolk Branch to care for the animals. Please remember we receive no state or government funding, we raise our own �nances in the area to support the animal welfare work we do.

The RSPCA East Norfolk branch are needing to find loving homes for the many cats coming into our care.

All our cats are beautiful and will make loving companions. We are desperately short of space and need to rehome some

before we can help others.

If anyone has a large dog crate they no longer need then we would be most grateful if they could drop it into one of our charity shops – they are very useful for sick/elderly

cats or kittens until we have space available at the cattery.

Scents of BeingScents of BeingMy last article, "Scents of Happiness", talked about the bene�ts of laughter - something that helped me through some challenging times at the end of last year. Another thing I have found helpful in life is what I have come to know as 'mindfulness', or what I have called a 'sense of being'.

No matter what is happening in life, it is possible to experience some calm, some respite, by letting go of any thoughts that are adding to your pressures or woes, even for only a few minutes. The bene�ts from taking a little time o� from thinking and spending some time just being are well worth it; it's been shown to lower your heart rate and blood pressure, and can improve your general sense of well-being.

Di�erent things work for di�erent people, but if you �nd something that helps you to empty your mind for a while, build it in on a regular basis and see how di�erent you feel. Some people �nd running or cycling almost meditative and miss it if they can't go for any reason, not just on a physical level but mentally too, as it is a 'stress buster' for them. For others it could be walking, gardening, or singing, or something creative - anything that enables you to stop thinking for a while. Whenever you are doing this kind of thing, be mindful of your 5 senses and experience the relaxation in every sense, and if possible add a memorable scent too, for future recall of that relaxed feeling and 'scents of being'.

Spending a little time being in the moment is very precious and restorative, which reminds me of a saying I love: "Yesterday's history, tomorrow's a mystery, today is a gift - that's why we call it the present."

Find out more about how to use your 5 senses and mindfulness to gain some peace and perspective in your life on my " Sense of Well-being Retreat" in April.

Contact me for more information, [email protected] or 07887 707761.

Tricia Davies

Seals at Horsey, NorfolkDuring the months of December and January the grey seal colony heads on to the beach to give birth to seal pups, providing a fantastic opportunity to get a close look at the seals and pups.

How to �nd the seals at HorseyThe easiest way to �nd the seals is to start at Horsey Gap, as shown on the map with a purple marker. Parking is available down a track at the entrance of the gap (be warned though its a bit narrow and bumpy!). To �nd the seals requires a bit of a walk (usually a mile) along the coast heading south easterly towards Winterton on Sea. A recommended walk through the dunes gives a nice view of the surrounding countryside to your right with the sea to your left. You may spot some seals laying on the beach during the mile walk, but you'll eventually stumble upon concrete viewing areas, where you have a good chance of seeing seals a couple of feet below you, if not, then on the beach in front of you, or even in the dunes.

www.scenicnorfolk.co.uk

Louise Thomas-Minns CIBTAC CIDESCO BABTAC Cert Ed

www.uandyourskin.co.uk [email protected] M. 07810 872 633

'Beauty trends for 2012!'A part of my job that I really enjoy is working with the media.I'm asked, fairly regularly, to give comments, opinions & tips related to my industry & contribute to articles on the 'hottest topics' in the land of skin & beauty.

So recently I was asked 'What are the trends for 2012?' 'What's happening with product development, client/customer behavior & the spending habits of the public when it comes to caring for their skin?’Here I share with you my guide to the 'Beauty trends for 2012!'

Products are going to continue to blind us with science with ingredients that claim to brighten,defend,repair,strengthen & plump our skin, on the increaseBright, even toned skin also sets the bar for a younger looking skin.Foundations will give �awless �nishes in skin identical shades using more natural ingredients.

I am seeing a move towards client’s wanting ‘Power facial’s’ instead of opting for the quick �x of Botox. Great news for me as a skin therapist & also as there is a real buzz surrounding treating the skin from within.I have been following this philosophy with my client’s for the last 10 years. (If you haven't already booked your place on my 'Healthy Ageing' workshop, March 26th, with Nutritional Therapist Glen Matten there is still time.)

Customer spending will move towards utilising the 'high-tech beauty gadgets' that are available to remove hair, power cleanse or �rm the skin at home.Real value for money is being seen in skin treatments now & the habit of spending hundreds a month on quick �x �llers is fading as clients’ seek out long term skin health.

So to get ahead when it come to improving your skin book my signature 'U and your skin' facial...you can be sure to be right on trend for 2012.

STARTING AGAINLove is OnThe Air

Like me on Facebookwww.facebook.com/randomthoughtsfromarandomwoman

Follow me onwww.twitter.com/#!/randomhousehold

It’s Valentines Day this month and love is in the air. Or in my case on the air!Since the New Year I have been using the power of radio to promote myself and otherclients and I’ve found it to be very e�ective.I was asked by local BBC radio to talk about my �edgling business and the role of social media as I’d actually responded to a call on Twitter for a business guest. It went really well. The presenter and myself chatted about what I was doing before reviewing the Saturday morning papers.As result of this a few days later I secured an interview for a PR client as an expert, talkingabout what businesses need to do to plan for the year ahead.Then I was asked on again to talk about my blog and what inspired me to start writing it.I have a couple more clients now who have, o� the back of this success also asked about

going on radio. Some are more nervous than others, which is completely understandable but media training is simple enough to do and I am able to help them with that.The important thing to remember is that this isn’t advertising. You don’t talk products,

special o�ers or �gures. This is PR. You mention your company name of course but mostly a whole new audience gets to meet you as a person. It gives you the opportunity to promote your ideas and your story. It gives your business a human voice and a personal edge.

So if you thought publicity was just all about the newspapers then think about making friends with your local radio station.

It’s not as scary as it looks. Or should I say sounds!

Victorian Nights Festival

The first ever Victorian Nights Festival to take place in North Norfolk in May 2012On 18 and 19 May 2012, the North Norfolk towns of Cromer, Sheringham and Wells will be transported back to the Victorian Britain thanks to a successful bid to the Heritage Lottery Fund. The �rst ever Victorian Nights festival will celebrate the lavish Victorian Age, a signi�cant period in North Norfolk's history, as it heralded the coming of the railways and marked North Norfolk as the popular holiday destination for tourists it remains today.

Participating venues in the three towns will be opening their doors after-hours for a packed programme of special events to entertain and amaze. The programme features Victorian �re eaters, escapologists, an old fashioned photo parlour, fairground attractions, circus acts, a traditional train ride, cottage craft workshops, �lm, guided walks and the chance to meet lots of costumed characters. All events, the majority of which are free, are aimed at families, the local community and visitors to the area.

The festival is part of the national Museums at Night campaign, the annual after-hours celebration of arts, history and heritage. The campaign is co-ordinated by Culture 24, a not-for-pro�t online publisher, working across the arts, heritage, education and tourism sectors.

The initiative is the work of eight cultural organisations across the three towns: Cromer Museum, RNLI Henry Blogg Museum, Cromer Preservation Society, North Norfolk Railway, The Mo Museum, Sheringham Little Theatre, Sheringham Preservation Society and Wells Maltings. The project is being co-ordinated by Laura Crossley, a freelance museums and heritage consultant. Laura Crossley, Victorian Nights Co-ordinator, said: “Victorian Nights o�ers people a fantastic opportunity to have fun and do something di�erent, whilst exploring North Norfolk’s stunning cultural and heritage venues after-hours.

This is a special chance to take part in a brand new festival, with all kinds of activities to amaze and intrigue.” As well as coming along to our exciting events, there are lots of opportunities for local people to get involved with Victorian Nights. The festival’s volunteer programme features a range of interesting roles, from marketing, to photography, to driving a minibus! A special volunteer scheme, in co-operation with the Norfolk Library Service, will see 20 local people attend a certi�cated literacy and blogging training course, before promoting the festival via fortnightly blogs. A dedicated schools programme will also give local children the opportunity to get involved via a competition and education pack which can be used in schools. We would also like to invite local businesses to take part in the fun by opening late during the festival. To �nd out more about this exciting new project, or to get involved, please visit our website: www.victoriannightsnorthnorfolk.com. We can also be found on Facebook (Victorian Nights North Norfolk) and Twitter (@victoriannights).

Top 10 UK walks: Blakeney Freshes, NorfolkNational Trust UK walk 4, best for birdwatching: this route takes you past coastal reed beds

and marshes - prime sites for a wealth of sea birds such as bittern, red shank and avocet

Photograph: Alan Copson/JAI/Corbis

The Norfolk coast is one of the best parts of the country for bird watching as there are so many nature reserves all the way along it with lots of salt marshes and other good habitats. This walk takes you between

an area of reed beds and marshes with Blakeney Harbour on the other side. The landscape is full of big open skies and you can see up and down the coast for several miles in both directions, while looking

straight out to the North Sea. At this time of year you can spot marsh harrier, bittern, red shank, avocet, breeder wading birds and the occasional muntjac and Chinese water deer – so make sure you bring your

binoculars. If you follow the way markers about half a mile in, you get really good views of Blakeney harbour and out to Blakeney Point – my favourite part of the walk.

David Wood, head warden, National Trust

Distance: three miles (5k)

For more Norfolk Walks visit the National Trust website: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/walks

Enjoyment for all the family Rural craft centre set in 18th. Century restored barns. 13 craft workshops, gifts, clothes,fudge and foodstu�s. Fun fair. Junior Farm and restaurant.

An enjoyable day out means di�erent things to di�erent people, so it’s not always easy to �nd one place that appeals to every member of the family.

Here at Wroxham Barns, we work hard to provide just that, priding ourselves on being the ‘must visit’ for ALL the family. There are craft studios and superb shopping facilities for the grown-ups, while the youngsters will love our Junior Farm and Children’s Funfair. We are constantly updating and extending the activities on o�er so there is always something fresh to see and do.

We are open all week and all year, so we hope you will pay more than one visit and bring the whole family, whatever their age or interests.

www.wroxhambarns.co.uk

Wroxham Barns 24hr information lineTel: 01603 783911

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