Lynn Turner, is a dynamic multi-tasking, multi-talented woman, with an entrepreneurial spirit.
A massive dance fan, having started a dance group, Mixed Company, in the early 80s she went on to open the first dance and fitness business, getting aerobics, body conditioning, and jazz dance to the masses.
Having worked at Archant for many years in events, PR, marketing, and newspaper sales, she helped to launch the Suffolk Magazine.
She’s taught dance and fitness for Dance East, along with Salsa and Argentine Tango and was also an active member of the team to launch the Red Shoe Appeal to get the Dance House built on Ipswich Waterfront.
Lynn opened her shop Cake & Catwalk in 2010, and last year when the Covid pandemic hit retail hard, decided to take her business online.
She misses the daily interaction with her loyal customers.
Here she talks to Gina Long
What’s been the impact of Covid-19 and how have you adapted?
Shock! My life completely changed forever.
[I] Cleared the shop for security reasons and then spent six months photographing everything and getting it all online.
A mammoth task, but time used wisely.
What is your connection to East Anglia?
I’ve lived in Ipswich my whole life, a Chantry girl born and bred.
Tried to leave, but it dragged me back.
What is your East Anglian Heaven?
Being close to the water. Rivers and the sea. The extraordinary and varied architecture. Big skies and the most incredible landscapes.
What is your East Anglian Hell?
The negativity about Ipswich from people who live here and those who will not come here. Those who slam and damn.
Ipswich is having a rough time at the moment so don’t kick the dog when it’s down.
What’s your favourite East Anglian landmark?
There are lots, but I love Heveningham Hall. The setting and the size. It’s having a beautiful palace in the middle of nowhere. I sometimes just park up close by and marvel at its splendour and magnificence. It’s a joy to behold.
What’s the best thing that happens in East Anglia every year?
Summer. We do it well here. There is so much to see and do.
What is your favourite restaurant?
The Mariners on Ipswich Dock and The Unruly Pig at Bromswell.
What your specialist Mastermind subject?
Burlesque (ha).
What is always in your fridge?
Mayo and wine of course....
What’s your simple philosophy of life?
Be nice. Be kind but be passionate.
What’s your favourite film?
Strictly Ballroom
What was your first job?
Window dresser for Debenhams.
What is your most treasured possession?
Don’t have one. My daughter Daisy is my treasure but I don’t possess her!
Who do you admire most?
Tough one. Anyone who stands up proud for great causes and their beliefs. Who gives their heart to help others without expecting anything in return.
What is your biggest indulgence?
My monthly facial, really good wine and proper butter.
What do you like about yourself most?
I have lovely hair!
What’s your worst character trait?
My imposter syndrome.
Where is your favourite holiday destination?
Cadaques in northern Spain
Best day of your life?
When I gave birth to my daughter Daisy. I know it's hammy but it’s the truth.
What’s your favourite breakfast?
Black pudding, hash browns, bacon and eggs. I also love eggs Benedict.
What’s your favourite tipple?
A lovely glass of Apremont (white wine from the Savoie) drunk by the side of a snow-covered mountain. Bliss
What’s your hidden talent?
I can instantly tell a corked wine. Really annoying, especially when they bring out the owner and then the chef to dispute my findings.
What’s your earliest memory?
Being piled into our old black Vanguard car with six other bridesmaids for a fitting.
Tell us something people don’t know about you?
Nothing really. I am an open book. I have nothing to hide. You have only got to ask me and I will tell you everything.
What’s the worst thing anyone has ever said to you?
You know. I put up with so much name-calling as a child being a redhead with lots of freckles I just don’t hear it. Let’s just say it’s going over my head.
Tell us why you live here and nowhere else?
I am a townie and we live off Belstead Road, Ipswich. Close enough to walk or cycle and with all the amenities. We are also five minutes away from the countryside and one hour away from London. Plus all my lovely friends and family. We have it all.
What do you want to tell our readers about most?
You never know what’s around the corner. Be prepared for change. Don’t be afraid of technology you have to keep up.
Be ready to invent yourself again. However tough, however, scared and disillusioned you may feel, there is always a friend or relative and really kind people out there who want to help you get back on that horse again.
Put that happy face on and realise that life starts again even at 64.
In my spare time, I put my retail skills to good use and help coordinate the community pop-up shop for St Matthews church, in Ipswich, which is open every Thursday at 9.00am and provides a bag of food for £2 for those in need.
Please do consider taking a look at my online shop by going to: www.cakeandcatwalk.co.uk or www.itsmylook/shop
If you have a story, email gina@hallfarmfornham.com or follow Twitter: @geewizzgee1 Instagram: @ginalong_geewizz
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