Memory

Quite a number of years ago, having recently moved to Lavenham, we went to the monthly farmers' market in the village hall where we found two to three lonely stalls and were told that the market was about to close down unless they could find someone to take it on. I turned to Justine and said `you could do something about this ‘. Little did I know that that comment and decision would change our lives forever and Suffolk Market Events was born!

Landmark

The Water Meadows in Sudbury. They have this amazing ability to look stunning whatever time of year – must be something to with the light. Whether it is spring with the cows grazing or the flooding that often comes in winter, they always look beautiful and I can imagine they haven’t changed since Gainsborough’s time or before!

Beach

I have great family memories of trips to Shingle Street – amazing shoreline with fascinating history and a few great mythical stories. Recently we went to Covehithe and I was blown away by the natural beauty of that beach. Plus the fish and chips at the Harbourside Inn at Southwold afterwards rounded off a wonderful day

Town/City or Village

Our local town is Sudbury as we live a couple of miles away and we’ve run the farmers' market in town since 2012 so I feel connected. There are some really exciting new developments that will be finished soon including the new Gainsborough House as well as the renovation of St Peters. So despite some tough times for the town centre like many high streets, I really hope there is a much more positive future for Sudbury. The walks along the River Stour through to the Water Meadows and on towards Long Melford are stunning.

Place to eat

We always loved tasting Carl’s food at Shillingfords in Sudbury and again now as it has moved to Pebmarsh. Pea Porridge is a favourite of ours as the menu always make you think which I enjoy, and the food Justin and James put out just tastes delicious.

Attraction or day out

We do a wonderful circular walk across and over the River Stour which takes us over the border into Essex and back again. You get great views of the Stour Valley and walk though gorgeous meadows and fields. Often, we time it to finish in the Henny Swan for a refreshing drink or two and a bite to eat – and sit smugly thinking to ourselves how lucky we are to live in this part of the world.

Event

Not sure I can be objective here as we run and love The Taste of Sudbury Food & Drink Festival. It’s such a fun day out and it’s special as we totally focus on local producers, chefs etc and to bring them all together is truly special.

Pub

The Shoulder of Mutton, Assington. Since it has re-opened, we have been regular visitors on a Friday evening (often with kids in tow) and it has a lovely local village pub feel. We’re always made to feel very welcome and the staff there ensure there is a lovely atmosphere. Often a quick drink turns into a meal for four! Pubs like this are so good for the local community.

Shop

I do like a book and really love perusing book shops so I was delighted that Dial Lane Books opened in Ipswich – great shop and lovely people.

Export

When we first moved to Suffolk, we would go back to stay with family in London for Christmas and every year I would bring a big wheel of Suffolk Gold and Suffolk Blue – it’s now a firm family favourite and an established Christmas tradition.