So this month is the one to make all your resolutions but they don’t have to be all about getting healthy and saving money.

Here is part two of some of the things every Colcestrian should have done.

Read part one here, to see five more suggestions.

And if you haven’t then make 2019 the year that you did.

1. See in the next big rock thing out at the Colchester Arts Centre

This venue has played hosts to some of the biggest names in music from Coldplay to the Killers to Muse and the Strokes.

As well as Stereolab’s Laetitia Sadier this weekend, New Order’s Peter Hook and Lee Scratch Perry, the venue will be playing host to several showcase gigs, giving the next generation of bands a chance to shine.

There’s this Friday’s On gig, and then the Sixth Form College Battle of the Bands and Schools rock Prom in February plus the Undiscovered Grand Bands final in March.

2. Take Afternoon Tea at Tymperleys, Trinity Street, Colchester.

When it comes to history, Colchester literally drips in the stuff, so it’s no surprise you can have a very nice afternoon tea in the old home of Elizabeth I’s physician and father of electricity, William Gilberd.

In fact, Trinity Street is tea shop central with other such delights including the more modern Cafe Saison and Cafe 21, which has one of the best secret gardens in the town.

3. Go bird watching at Fingringhoe Wick Nature Reserve

Flock - brent geese at Fingringhoe Wick Credit: Peter BowdenFlock - brent geese at Fingringhoe Wick Credit: Peter Bowden

Again there are plenty of places to catch a look at some of the our spectacular feathered friends who visit us throughout the year but it doesn’t get much better than sitting in the Estuary hide listening to the oyster catchers, redshanks and peewits while keeping an eye out for a little egret or spoonbill.

4. Try a fresh fish platter at The Company Shed, West Mersea

Foodies like Jay Raynor and Jamie Oliver love to wax lyrical about the charms of this back to basics eaterie which serves fresh fish right off the back of the trawlers that have just caught them.

Even if you don’t like them, any local worth their salt should at least try a native oyster - they’re world famous!

5. Crabbing at Mersea, Wivenhoe Quay or Brightlingsea

Another firm favourite with my kids to be enjoyed at any of those river-side spots, although Wivenhoe Quay is my fav. Just make sure you put them back and don’t use hooks!