Skip to main contentEnter
Ipswich.co.uk Logomark in a circle

Ipswich's only independent news website

We publish the stories that matter and champion everything that's good about our town – without the ads, popups or tracking

Oliver Rouane-Williams speaking with an elderly couple in the town centre

We can't do this without you!

If you value strong, free, independent local media that fights tirelessly for our town, please consider contributing just £24 per year

Local bookshop backs MP's Christmas card competition

News
Ipswich.co.uk Logomark in a circle

Ipswich's only independent news website

We publish the stories that matter and champion everything that's good about our town – without the ads, popups or tracking

An independent Ipswich bookshop is supporting young artistic talent by providing prizes for Ipswich MP Jack Abbott's constituency Christmas card competition, with the winning design set to reach thousands of local homes.

Ipswich MP Jack Abbott at Dial Lane Books
Ipswich MP Jack Abbott at Dial Lane Books in IpswichJack AbbottJack Abbott

Looking ahead: Schoolchildren who live or attend school in the Ipswich constituency have until 12:00 on 22 November to submit their designs through the MP's website.

The final three artists will be invited to a special event at Dial Lane Books on 29 November, where the winner will be announced.

Dial Lane Books on Dial Lane in Ipswich
Dial Lane Books on Dial Lane in IpswichOliver Rouane-WilliamsIpswich.co.uk

The bottom line: The competition offers young artists a unique opportunity to have their work widely seen while supporting one of Ipswich's many brilliant independent businesses. Find out more at https://www.jackabbott.org/2024-christmas-card-competition.

Oliver Rouane-Williams speaking with an elderly couple in the town centre

We can't do this without you!

If you value strong, free, independent local media that fights tirelessly for our town, please consider contributing just £24 per year

Oliver Rouane-Williams speaking with an elderly couple in the town centre

Ipswich's only free and independent news publication

Support our journalism

We can't do this without you! Unlike the Ipswich Star and East Anglian Daily Times, Ipswich.co.uk has no banner advertising and no wealthy US corporate owners.

So, if you value strong, free, independent local media that fights tirelessly for a better Ipswich, please consider contributing just £24 per year.

Every penny matters and allows us to keep producing good quality local journalism that respects your time, attention and privacy.

Become a supporter

Regulars of 50 years cut ribbon as Royal George reopens

News
Ipswich.co.uk Logomark in a circle

Ipswich's only independent news website

We publish the stories that matter and champion everything that's good about our town – without the ads, popups or tracking

Richard and June Proctor, who have frequented the Colchester Road pub for half a century, officially reopened the venue following its six-figure makeover.

Richard and June Proctor, who have frequented the Colchester Road pub for half a century, officially reopened the venue following its six-figure makeover
Richard and June Proctor, who have frequented the Colchester Road pub for half a century, officially reopened the venue following its six-figure makeoverGreene King

The details: The Flaming Grill pub welcomed customers back on Monday, 14 April, after an extensive, 6-figure refurbishment that included:

  • Improvements to interior décor

  • Additional indoor and outdoor seating

  • A garden makeover

  • A new TV viewing area for sports fans

New interior at the Royal George in Ipswich
New interior at the Royal George in IpswichGreene King
The Royal George beer garden
The Royal George beer gardenGreene King

What they're saying: "This refurbishment has allowed us to enhance every aspect of our offering to our customers. We hope our visitors will enjoy the new look and feel, and we can't wait to welcome them back," said Ian Andrews, general manager at the Royal George.

What's next: The venue is introducing several promotional offers throughout the week, including two mains for £13.99 Monday-Friday, buy one get one free cocktails on Fridays and Saturdays, and sizzling steak deals from £8.99 Monday-Wednesday.

The bottom line: While the six-figure investment has transformed the physical space, the Royal George's reopening ceremony reminds us that a pub's greatest asset remains the loyal patronage of customers who have made it part of their lives for decades.

Oliver Rouane-Williams speaking with an elderly couple in the town centre

We can't do this without you!

If you value strong, free, independent local media that fights tirelessly for our town, please consider contributing just £24 per year

Load next article