The Mannington Book Bash, a boutique literary festival in the heart of North Norfolk, will take place from 25–27 September, curated by the multi-award-winning independent bookshop, The Book Hive. 

A rollicking weekend of unforgettable events with world-class writers, it has quickly become one of the UK’s most cherished literary gatherings, famous for its relaxed, intimate, inspiring atmosphere.

Set in the breathtaking gardens and historic grounds of Mannington Hall, complete with sweeping lawns, ancient trees and even a moat, this festival is an unbeatable autumn celebration of stories, ideas and imagination. 

Immerse yourself in a stellar line-up of writers, poets, historians, performers and thinkers against the backdrop of one of East Anglia’s most enchanting venues.

Open Friday 4–7.30 pm, Saturday 10 am – 6 pm and Sunday 10 am – 4 pm.

For enquiries, tel: 01263 493275 or email: info@mannington.co.uk

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SPONSORED CONTENT

By Laura Cornwall

In 2015, I reached my Slimming World target after losing 4½ stone. My life completely changed. I felt healthier, more confident and so full of energy that I even ran the London Marathon. For the first time in years, I felt like myself again.

Then life took a turn I never expected. Just as lockdown ended, I was diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer.

My world became surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy and endless medication. Slimming World slipped away as I focused on getting through treatment. By the time I was given the all-clear, I had gained 3½ stone. I should have felt relieved, but instead I felt lost. I no longer recognised the woman looking back at me.

I knew I had to go back to what had worked before, but I was frightened. I was scared of being seen, scared of starting again, scared that I had let myself down. Still, I found the courage to walk through those doors, wearing a hat to cover my hair loss and a mask to protect myself.

The support I received was overwhelming. Every person in the room made me feel safe. There was no judgement or pressure, only warmth, understanding and the sense that I was not alone. I felt supported and surrounded by people who genuinely wanted to help me succeed.

Within a year, I lost all 3½ stone again. This time, it was not just about confidence. It was about my future health. Returning to Slimming World helped me rebuild healthy routines and rediscover my favourite meals: baked oats, risotto, lasagne and many more comforting dishes that made me feel in control again.

Reaching my target for the second time changed me. I knew what it felt like to lose weight, regain it, struggle, return and succeed again. It was then that I became a Slimming World consultant because I knew I could help other people who felt the way I had felt. If life has taken you off track, you are always welcome back.

The local Slimming World group meets on Tuesdays at 5.30 pm at Stimpson’s Piece Community Hall, Bartle Court, Reepham. For more information, contact Laura Cornwell, Slimming World Consultant 07359 593946.

Pictured above: Laura Cornwall before (left) at the end of her cancer journey, and after (right), back at target in the same dress a year apart. Photos: submitted

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PARTNER SPOTLIGHT

The next Farmers’ Market & Craft Fairs will be held at Eves Hill Farm on Sunday 23 November and Sunday 7 December from 10 am – 3 pm with free parking.

Eves Hill Farm offers a unique experience and creates a warm, welcoming and friendly atmosphere as you would expect from Jeremy and Kathryn Buxton.

Contact: Eves Hill Farm, Norwich Road, Booton NR10 4TD
Tel: 07870 490159
Email: eveshillmarkets@gmail.com
www.eveshill.uk

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Gardening for Beginners Workshop

Thursday 18 September 2025, 10 am – 1 pm

In this half-day workshop, you’ll learn the basics of growing your own vegetables and flowers, inspired by the Wolterton Walled Garden. Led by Kat Lanham of Wolterton Park, the course combines practical demonstrations with a guided tour of the stunning four-acre walled kitchen garden.

You’ll explore key topics such as garden planning, tools, choosing what to grow, seed sowing, pruning, and managing pests and diseases. Whether you’re a curious beginner or a committed gardener, this is an excellent introduction. Set within the glorious, usually private grounds of Wolterton Hall, the day promises to be both informative and memorable.

The workshop will take place in the hall’s gardens. Enjoy tea, coffee and refreshments on arrival, take home your work along with a special gift from Wolterton, and, time permitting, enjoy a tour of the hall’s state rooms.

Price: £90

Book tickets: https://wolterton.co.uk/product/gardening-for-beginners/
Contact: 01263 768966 or info@wolterton.co.uk

Dahlia Season – Handtied Bouquet Workshop

Tuesday 23 September 2025, 10 am – 1 pm

Create stunning hand-tied dahlia bouquets at Norfolk’s hidden gem, Wolterton Hall. In this relaxed autumn workshop, Harriet will guide you step by step on choosing flowers, spiralling stems and caring for your bouquet, helping you find your own style.

The workshop emphasises sustainable floristry and uses locally sourced blooms, including some from Wolterton’s gardens. Weather permitting, enjoy a stroll through the magnificent walled gardens – the largest in East Anglia – currently preparing for major renovations.

The session will take place in the Marble Hall, and includes tea, coffee and refreshments on arrival. You’ll take home your bouquet and a special gift from Wolterton, and, time permitting, enjoy a tour of the hall’s state rooms.

Price: £80

Book tickets: https://wolterton.co.uk/product/dahlia-season-handtied-bouquet-workshop/
Contact: 01263 768966 or info@wolterton.co.uk

Photos: Wolterton

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Challenges can appear at unpredictable times when it comes to relationships, and this can affect individual and couples’ intimacy.

Ness Cooper, an accredited psychotherapist and counsellor specialising in relationship and intimacy issues, has offered couples counselling in Norfolk for almost 20 years, and now has in-person availability in Aylsham.

“I also see clients for generalised psychotherapy, both online and in-person,” she said.

“The thing with couples therapy is that many people turn to it when it feels like it’s too late to find that resolution the relationship needs to survive.

“I want couples to know that it’s not just when you hit rock bottom that couples counselling can help, but it can be highly effective before you reach this point in your relationship.

“Within my private practice I have helped couples navigate conflict, hostile arguments, intimacy issues, infertility, parenting difficulties, dating issues and more.

“I’ve sat with couples when things have gotten very rough, and helped open up different ways of navigating the relationship when needed.

“My focus is on the relationship; however, I aim to help all those within the relationship feel healthier within their mind and lifestyle.

“Over the years I have trained in various areas, and even studied under the Kinsey Institute, the leading university worldwide when it comes to how relationships work.

“Many couples see me for a block of sessions; however, some still attend regular MOTs years down the line to help keep things fresh.

“Remember, couples therapy is there to help you break out of patterns you have become stuck in within your relationship. It can be challenging, but you’ve got this!”

For enquiries and bookings, contact: Ness Cooper Therapy
6 Penfold Street, Aylsham, Norfolk NR11 6ET
Tel: 01263 808952/07786 141455
Email: contact@nesscooper.co.uk
www.nesscooper.co.uk

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This summer, the grandeur of opera meets the historic elegance of Wolterton, as we proudly present a series of stunning performances by Wild Arts:

The Elixir of Love – Sunday 13 July 2025 – BOOK HERE

A Night at the Opera – Saturday 2 August 2025 – BOOK HERE

Photo: Wolterton

Renowned for their exceptional productions that bring opera to life in breathtaking settings, Wild Arts will transport audiences with their world-class singers, stirring orchestration and captivating storytelling, all set within the estate’s magnificent grounds.

Whether you are a devoted opera enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, these performances promise to be a highlight of the season, blending artistic excellence with the beauty of nature.

Expect a magical repertoire featuring beloved classics and thrilling new interpretations, performed in an intimate and atmospheric open-air setting.

With the serene lake, ancient trees and the stately Wolterton Hall itself framing each performance, the synergy of music and landscape creates an experience unlike any other.

For those looking to extend the enchantment, Wolterton offers the rare opportunity to stay overnight in one of its magnificent main-hall bedrooms.

Steeped in history and elegantly restored, these luxurious accommodations allow guests to fully immerse themselves in the grandeur of the estate.

Wake up to sweeping views of the parkland, enjoy a leisurely breakfast in the opulent surroundings, and take in the tranquillity of this historic home. It’s the perfect way to turn an evening of opera into an unforgettable getaway.

This special event marks the first of our summer dates being released as part of Wolterton’s new Arts and Culture programme, with more exciting performances and experiences to be announced soon.

Whether you choose a grand evening with friends or a romantic night out, this is an opportunity to witness world-class artistry in an extraordinary location.

Secure your tickets and book your stay now for a cultural escape unlike any other.

More information: emily@wolterton.co.uk

07386 678532 | 01263 493263

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Interested in history, art, music or food? Would you consider volunteering at Norfolk’s best kept secret, Wolterton, a stunning stately home situated in the heart of the North Norfolk countryside?

Wolterton is a privately owned Georgian historic house that will be opening its gates to the public for the first time this summer with its inaugural art exhibition accompanied by a series of operas, plays and dining experiences.

We are looking to build a team of fun, responsible and positive volunteers to help us host and steward these events. If you would like to know more, please email to register your interest.

We will be hosting a Volunteer Open Morning at 11 am on Saturday 17 May. Please join us to hear further details and we will show you around the hall and supply copious amounts of tea and biscuits!

Email: volunteer@wolterton.co.uk
Tel: 01263 768966
Find out more HERE

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A new evening Pilates class is coming to Reepham Primary School, School Road, Reepham, to be held on Tuesdays from 6–7 pm and running from 29 April to 20 May.

This will be a mixed ability class with focus on:

• enhanced flexibility;
• improved core strength;
• better balance and co-ordination
• improved posture and body awareness;
• reducing levels of stress and relaxation.

Each class is run by Emma Power of EmPower Pilates Norwich. Trained at Body Control Pilates, London, Emma is experienced in supporting menopause, bone health and scoliosis, and also specialises in Back4Good spinal health care and is trained in prenatal and postnatal Pilates.

These classes will run during school term times. All small equipment is provided or bring your own mat.

Emma also runs group classes in St Michael’s Reepham, as well as classes in Horsford and Norwich, and has a private studio in Norwich for one-to-one and duo sessions.

To register for any of these classes, book HERE.

Any questions, send an email.

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After baby Arthur was born weighing in at a healthy 7 lb 1 oz, Amy was breastfeeding and, with the consent of her midwife, went back to the Reepham Slimming World group with Laura. (Slimming World is supported by the Royal College of Midwives.)

“Now is the time to focus on me,” said Amy. “I had put on weight through my pregnancy and wanted to be able to eat healthily and make sure I had the right nutrients for my baby. I also have hypermobility and having extra weight was very painful on my knees.

“I went back to Slimming World when Arthur was four weeks old, and I was worried about going to the group with a baby. But everyone was so lovely and very supportive.”

When asked about the biggest challenge she had to overcome since joining Slimming World, Amy said: “I found it really hard trying to fit in eating healthy and cooking meals with a baby. I felt it was a massive hurdle and an impossible task.

“With the help of the group and tips from other members I found that with a little bit of forward planning it was a lot easier than I thought.

“Food optimising is so versatile. My favourite meal is sweet chilli chicken, and now that my son is two years old he can eat the same meals as us. Cheeseburger pasta and spaghetti bolognese are his firm favourites.”

After a knee reconstruction surgery four months after Arthur was born, Amy found that losing the extra weight has definitely helped her hypermobility, and she is now able to run around after her son and not be in tremendous pain.

“I feel so much better and fitter now and have even changed my target and have another 7½ lb to lose,” said Amy.

Reepham Slimming World Group meets at Stimpson’s Piece Community Hall, Bartle Court, Reepham, on Tuesdays at 5.30 pm. For more information, contact Laura Cornwell 07359 593946.

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Salle Christmas Tree Shop will open on Saturday 23 November. We’re here to make your holiday season special, with everything you need for a magical Christmas. We’re open daily from 9 am to 5 pm until Christmas Eve.

Our shop offers a stunning selection of Nordmann fir and Norway spruce trees, all locally grown and freshly cut.

Not sure which tree is right for you? Our friendly staff will be on hand to help you choose the perfect one and will even carry it to your car.

Need it delivered? We offer local delivery, with costs based on distance, for your convenience.

We’ve got your decorations covered too. Alongside our locally sourced gifts, the much-loved felt baubles are back this year by popular demand, and we’re excited to introduce a new range of glass baubles in all shapes and colours. We will, of course, have everything your tree needs, from tree stands to lights in various colours.

Make sure to visit us on the weekend of 7–8 December, when we’ll be hosting a special craft fair. Local artisans and craftspeople will pitch up to showcase their handmade and bespoke Christmas gifts, offering you the chance to find something truly unique while supporting our talented community.

To add to the festive cheer, we’ll also be serving mince pies and mulled wine, so you can enjoy some holiday treats while you shop.

At Salle Christmas Tree Shop, we’re dedicated to making your Christmas stress-free and joyful. Whether you’re decorating, gift shopping or simply looking for a festive outing, we’ve got you covered.

Mark your calendar and bring your family and friends to celebrate the season with us. We can’t wait to welcome you and help make your Christmas truly magical.

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