Stamford Living May 2014

HELPING

YOU

TO

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THE

MOST

OUT

OF

LIVING

STAMFORD LIVING

LOCALLY

F O O D / FA S H I O N / H E A LT H & B E A U T Y / H O M E & G A R D E N / L I F E S T Y L E

MAY 2014 £1.50 05

9 771478 377017

WEBSITE! www.stamfordliving.co.uk SLMAYCOVER.indd 1

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@LocalLivingUK 15/04/2014 10:57

WEST DEEPING

£685,000 STAMFORD

Brook House is a substantial five bedroom family home offered with vacant possession and set at the bottom of The Lane, capturing open country views whilst siding onto a Brook. The accommodation comprises: Ground floor: Entrance hall, reception hall, drawing room, dining room, study, kitchen breakfast room, breakfast room, utility and cloakroom. First Floor: Spacious landing, Master bedroom with dressing room and en-suite bathroom, guest bedroom with en-suite shower room, three further bedrooms and family bathroom. Outside, the property has a driveway leading to a double garage with studio/office above. A five bar gate to the side gives access through to the garden which captures open views and sides onto a Brook. No Chain

Northborough

Call us now for more information

01780 765060

Set within a short walk of the town centre and resting on one of Stamford’s premier roads, this three bedroom bay fronted period home has recently undergone a no expense spared refurbishment to offer a stylish and contemporary home. The property has features including a glazed oak staircase, luxury sanitary fittings, a fully integrated kitchen including induction hob, sitting room with bi-folding doors, LED lighting, underfloor heating, security system and cat 6 wiring.

£895 pcm Stamford

A well-presented detached family home located in the popular village of Northborough, benefiting from gas central heating and double glazing. The accommodation comprises: Entrance hall, large lounge/ diner, further reception room, kitchen, utility room and cloakroom. Four bedrooms, three piece bathroom suite with shower over bath. Enclosed rear garden, garage and driveway.

£485,000

£725 pcm

A large three bedroom, two storey, Grade II listed apartment with roof garden, converted mid 1990’s with a wealth of character including exposed beams and set in the centre of the town. The property comprises: Entrance hall, Upper hall, Large sitting room opening through to the kitchen, cloakroom and utility room. Double doors from the hall lead to a terraced garden with views over to the Church. First floor: Landing, Three bedrooms, en-suite shower room and family bathroom.

3 Red Lion Street, Stamford PE9 1PA email: mailroom@knightpartnership.com

www.knightpartnership.com

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07/04/2014 11:51 15/04/2014 10:14

S TA M FOR D LIVING

I

was reminded this month proofreading some of the articles just how much the Burghley House Estate has done for the local community over the generations.

Our article on John Clare on Page 34 alludes to the financial backing and patronage that Lord Burghley gave him to help him publish his first book of poems. The feature on town halls on Page 28 shows the support given to various local communities by the Burghley Estate in the 20th century. And more recently, our walk through Burghley Park on Page 46 is much improved by the estate creating a new public footpath on their land between Pilsgate and the park which, facilitates a circular route. And of course free access to the Park to enjoy our leisure time.

Thanks for making a significant difference to the quality of our leisure lives.

Enjoy the early summer

MAY CONTENTS

W W W. S TA M F O R D L I V I N G . C O . U K UPDATES, SHOPPING

Editor’s Selection Updates: Elton Hall Food & Drink Festival; Perch & Preen; Ryhallite Fitness; IBS Awareness month 19 Updates: Stamford Amateur Dramatic Society; The Annual Bythams Charity Ride; Tatty Bumpkin; The Stamford Music Festival 25 Updates: Focus on Australia; The Oculist; Stephenson Smart looks at pension auto-enrolment 55 Updates: New Rutland County Showground; Medasun 5 11

33 VICTORIA GEORGE

HEALTH & BEAUTY 8 14

Fashion: Accessorise with colour Health & Beauty: Summer Essentials

8 FASHION: ACCESSORISE WITH COLOUR 46 BURGHLEY PARK & PILSGATE

Nicholas Rudd-Jones Editor

HOME, GARDEN, MOTORING AND TRAVEL

@LocalLivingUK Editor Nicholas Rudd-Jones 01780 765571 nicholas@bestlocalliving.co.uk Write to Stamford Living, PO Box 208, Stamford, PE9 9FY www.bestlocallivingliving.co.uk Advertisement Manager Claudia Bayley 01780 480409 claudia.bayley@btinternet.com Advertisement Director Helen Walton 01780 754801 helen.stamford@btopenworld.com Advertising Copy Rachel Beecroft 01780 765320 rachel@locallivingdesign.co.uk Head of Design Steven Handley steve@locallivingdesign.co.uk Senior Designer Nik Ellis nik@locallivingdesign.co.uk Publisher Nicholas Rudd-Jones 01780 765571 nicholas@bestlocalliving.co.uk Published by Local Living Ltd, PO Box 208, Stamford, Lincs. PE9 9FY nicholas@bestlocalliving.co.uk Printed by Warners of Bourne

22 Home & Garden: Gearing up for The Great Outdoors 36 Motoring: Electric Cars 44 Property: Goodwin Property Services

22 GEAR FOR THE GREAT OUTDOORS

FOOD & DRINK 31 48 51 52 55

Eating Out: Milanos; The Plough, Greetham Olive Branch recipe: Belvoir Marmalade Puddings Food & Drink: Lavinton Lamb Food & Drink: Kicking the Bottle Food & Drink: Oundle Mill; Six Bells at Witham

ACTIVITIES, CULTURE, LEARNING & BUSINESS

33 Contemporary Artists: Victoria George 40 Out & About: Rutland Walking & Cycling Festival; The Burghley Country Fair; Cash Matters 43 Contemporary Artists: Gillian Durno 46 Local walk: Burghley Park & Pilsgate 57 What’s On

PEOPLE & PLACES

28 Perspectives: Local Village Halls 34 Local History: John Clare 62 & Co: the team at You

COVER ILLUSTRATION OF BARN HILL, STAMFORD

BY KATIE CARDEW. FIND OUT MORE ABOUT HER WORK AT WWW.KCILLUSTRATIONS.CO.UK

SUBSCRIBE TO STAMFORD LIVING For only £20 (UK only) you can subscribe to Stamford Living for a year (12 issues).

Please send your name, address and a cheque made out to Local Living Ltd to: SL Subscriptions, PO Box 208, Stamford, PE9 9FY Or you can subscribe via the website at www.stamfordliving.co.uk

STAMFORD LIVING MAY 2014

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Designed for living Stoneham Kitchens now available from Orchard Kitchen Showroom: 22-23 Scotgate, Stamford, PE9 2YQ T: 01780 481850 F: 01780 481132 E: orchardkitchens@live.co.uk www.orchardwindows.co.uk Opening Times: Monday – Friday 9am-5pm. Saturday 10am-3pm

Kitchens | Conservatories | Windows | Bi Folding Doors | Orangeries | Lantern Roofs 4

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G REAT ID EA S FOR MAY

Editor’s Selection

1. Enjoy Victorian cricket and a Tug of War We will soon be saying this has a tradition stretching back to…well Victorian times. Stamford Meadows, Sun 8 Jun, starting at noon, funds raised donated to Rotary Charities.

Milanos 4. March into ngs to authentic Italian style Hill bri Milanos on St Mary’s bites 10am, with cakes and light bar and é Stamford – caf ide, and great food.

10pm. Super stylish ins

2. It really is about the bike On Tuesday 6th May, 7.45pm, St Peter’s Church, Oundle. William Fotheringham talks about his latest book, Racing Hard at the Oundle Festival of Literature. Tickets from www.oundlelitfest.org.uk

5. Make your home smell beautiful Our house has the scent of an olive grove now thanks to the Abode Aroma from Sly Fashion in St Mary’s Passage. £20, in 8 different aromas.

3. Ready, steady go Robert Loomes & Co are official timekeepers for Brigstock International Horse Trials at Rockingham Castle. The three day equestrian event takes place on May 2, 3 and 4. www. rockinghamhorsetrials.com

6. Forage at the Stamford Summer Fayre Sunday 01 June between 10.30am and 6pm. Enjoy a variety of food and craft stalls, children’s rides and free live performances.

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Advertisement Feature

Check carefully and buy well Kate Vincent, property finder for Garrington East Midlands discusses how to avoid some of the common pitfalls associated with buying property.

S

o, after weeks of scouring the internet and viewing properties you have finally found your dream home. Congratulations, a new home is an exciting prospect! But before you get too carried away with planning your new décor, there are certain essential actions and checks I would advise any buyer to carry out before completing on a purchase.

Choose your solicitor carefully. When choosing a solicitor do not base your decision solely on price but find someone who has the scope to work at your pace (which is probably going to be fast in this market) and with whom you feel you can work with. After all, you are going to be having a lot of contact with this person in the coming weeks and if the conveyancing becomes tricky then you will need some wise advice from this expert. A recommendation from someone who has already used the solicitor to purchase a property is ideal.

Pay the right price. This is a difficult one if you believe, as I do, that a property is worth as much as someone is willing to pay for it. However, how do you decide how much to pay? People often forget that the price on an estate agent’s particulars is an asking price not a prediction of value. Of course agents know their markets well but in the current conditions where stock is short some agents are not adverse to asking inflated prices, perhaps because a vendor has stipulated what they would like the price to be or simply as a ‘fishing’ exercise. Carry out price comparisons with other similar properties on the market and those that have been sold. At Garrington, we analyse price per square footage. It is not an exact science but a useful gauge when trying to calculate the right price and save money for our clients.

View the property at different times of day. Noise disturbance can be extremely distressing. In the past, I have viewed properties where noise from a distant motorway or race track could only be heard when the wind was blowing in a certain direction or another one, where the

local road was used by commuters as a nifty shortcut.

These are not necessarily deal breakers but if your priority is peace and tranquillity then make sure you are buying what you expect.

Talk to the neighbours. We are a nosey lot and most us like to know what is going on in our vicinity.

Neighbours can provide a wealth of information on the history of the property, asking price and future plans for the area. They are also the people with whom you are going to share (to a greater or lesser extent) your future life and it is always good to know you can live with them. A visit to the local pub may also prove to be fruitful.

Carry out internet research. The legal searches will identify any major events or plans that will impact your property, however, an hour searching the internet at the onset of the purchasing process may save you time, money and problems down the line. Simply type in the name and address of the house into a search engine and you will be amazed by what may appear – past agents’ particulars, planning applications, disputes, wind farm resistance group notes etc. All you need to do now is to decide what to do with this information!

Buying a house is a stressful and emotional process but with careful diligence and proper support to ensure that you purchase the right property at the right price, the angst can soon be forgotten.

Garrington work for private and/or corporate clients who want to buy, rent or invest in property throughout the UK. They also provide a negotiation only and oversee of sales service.

• Contact Kate Vincent on 01780 408377 to discuss your requirements and arrange a commitment free first meeting.

Alternatively, email info@garrington.co.uk or visit www.garringtoneastmidlands.co.uk

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Official Time Keepers for Brigstock International Horse Trials at Rockingham Castle on 2nd, 3rd & 4th May 2014

www.robertloomes.com Stamford (01780) 481319 • SL May ADS.indd 7

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FA S H I O N

Accessorise with

Colour Clever accessories can make a summer outfit into a new outfit.

Even the plainest jeans and T shirts can assume many different looks with a timely update - a new bag, new shoes and a gorgeous scarf.

Sally Stillingfleet has been able to add new colours into the mix to see you through summer

Tan Gabor sandals £89.99 Marcia May Shoes. Patent sandals £65 from Sly Saskia holds Shanhai Tang handbag £250, Coach tan high heal sandals £80, Orange patent pumps J Crew £80 all from Arch Label Agency. Large tan messenger style leather bag £99.95 from T&C Robinson.

CONTACTS: Chameleon – 5 St. Mary’s Hill, Stamford.

Tel. 01780 755405 Arch Label Agency - 34 St Paul’s St. Tel. 01780 764746 Marcia May Shoes – 41 St. Mary’s St. Stamford.

Tel. 01780 766608 17B Mill St. Oakham (NEW SHOP!) North Shoes – 2 Red Lion Square, Stamford Tel. 01780 755400 T&C Robinson - 4 St Mary’s Street, Stamford.

Tel. 01780 755378 Sly - 4 St. Mary’s Passage, Stamford. Tel. 01780 482870 Energy – Ironmonger Street, Stamford.

Tel. 01780 765633 Baubles and Bangles – 10 St Mary’s Hill, Stamford.

Tel. 01780 763633 • Photography by Elli Dean www.ellideanphotography.co.uk • Many thanks to my model Saskia Knight from Marcia May Shoes

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Black patent bag £90 from Baubles and Bangles. Black Rieker sandals £55 from North Shoes.

Saskia wears white top by Mink Pink from Energy £40 with white Levi’s jeans from a selection also from Energy.

Large woven Boo bag £58.50, white sandals with silver heal £65 both from Sly. White patent Vitti Love brogues £79.99.

Pepe boyfriend jeans £60 worn with Maison Scotch top £75 and slip-on shoes £75 all from Energy. Gabor yellow tote bag £49.99 from Marcia May Shoes.

Scarf £14 from Seaweed.

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Saskia wears scarf £12 Baubles & Bangles, Aigle print plimsolls £54.99 from Marcia May Shoes. Nico rucksack £49.00, teal patent bag £55 both from North Shoes.

Ipanema wedge flip-flops £35 Chameleon.

Papillio Liberty print sandals £59.95 and Sketchers Go Walk slip-on shoes £49 both from Marcia May Shoes. Jade green satchel

by Yoshi £44.95 from T&C Robinson.

Right: Bright orange purse / clutch £45 from Energy.

Jewelled Gioseppo sandals £40 from North Shoes.

15/04/2014 11:24

MARCIA MAY SHOES 41 St Mary’s Street, Stamford, PE9 2DS Tel: 01780 766608 NEW Shop Open: 17b Mill Street, Oakham, LE15 6EA

follow us on facebook

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UPD ATES

Celebrity Chef Jean-Christophe Novelli at Elton Hall Food & Drink Festival

Ryhallite Fitness

Multi award-winning celebrity chef Jean-Christophe Novelli is appearing at next month’s three-day Elton Hall Food & Drink Festival, organised by Cambridgeshire based Market Square Group, which starts on Friday, 6 June

‘The Nation’s Favourite French Chef’ will be in the kitchen theatre on Sunday, 8 June, cooking one of his favourite classic dishes at 11am, a Mediterranean meal at 1pm and, at 3pm, a culinary creation focusing on locallysourced produce.

Visitors can enter a homemade summer fruit dessert competition which will be judged by the international chef between 4.30pm and 5pm.

Elton Hall Food & Drink Festival will showcase some of the best regional, national and international food and drink available in the UK, alongside high-quality products and services for the home and garden.

On Saturday evening there is a live music event accompanied by Indian cuisine and a multicourse Medieval Banquet with musicians and entertainers.

• Tickets are available at www.clickit-tickets.co.uk. Adult prices start from £9 with children and concessions £5. Children under five are admitted free. There are additional charges for some entertainments and demonstrations.

Perch and Preen Blows into Stamford Beautician Faith Bailey has established a loyal following at her Perch and Preen salon in Rutland and hopes that her many valued customers will follow her to new premises in Stamford when she moves the business this month. “I am really sad to close the Oakham salon on Mill Street but my son starts secondary school in Stamford this year and I need to be working more locally to support him there,” explains Faith.

“I am so grateful to everyone in Rutland who has helped make the salon such a success – in fact, the new business will be run on exactly the same model but in Stamford.”

Faith will launch her new business at 4 All Saints’ Street (next door to Harrison & Dunn) and has plans to expand her range of classic and affordable treatments. With a unique ‘no appointment’ policy, she believes that her ten minute essential treatments should be a weekly necessity, not a monthly luxury and at £5 each for many treatments, there’s no excuse not to feel well groomed.

Faith is a fully trained hair and make-up artist having studied at the Delamar Academy at Ealing Film Studios and has added fabulous Hollywood hair and stunning make up to her

treatment list. Also new for Stamford Perch and Preen are express blow dries priced at £10 – perfect pre-work, at the start of a busy day or before a night out, prom or party.

• Perch & Preen Stamford, 4 All Saints Street, Stamford PE9 2PA

Ryhallite Fitness was established in October 2013 by Sarah MarkwellCook as a result of her local diet and fitness group closing, as Sarah is on her own personal weight loss journey and she felt it important that she had a local group to attend that met her needs.

Along with her business partner who is trained to give Nutritional Advice, they run five aerobic classes across the area and one Step Aerobic Class for Beginners. Both are qualified exercise-to-music instructors.

The exercise classes are designed to suit any age (10 years and above) and fitness level – a full workout that will match your needs and ability - so whether you are used to exercising to music or a complete beginner they are confident that you will enjoy the class and benefit from all it has to offer.

Nutritional advice is given based on information from the British Heart Foundation and offers a healthy eating programme designed to help you lose weight.

Weigh In is optional or you may want to just participate in the exercise only, which you are more than welcome to do.

• Interested then call Sarah or Debbie on 07775431059 or email ryhallitefitness@ hotmail.co.uk. QUOTE “STAMFORD LIVING ADVERT” AND GET YOUR FIRST CLASS FOR FREE. NO JOINING FEE, CLASS FEE £4.50 PER SESSION

IBS awareness month

April was IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) awareness month and in the UK approximately one in 5 people will experience symptoms of IBS at some point in their lives, with many not seeking any medical advice.

Symptoms may include abdominal pain, constipation and/or diarrhoea (sometimes alternating between the two), abdominal bloating, excessive wind or erratic bowel habits.

Conventional medicine has no cure for IBS, with treatments options ranging from the use of anti-spasmodic drugs to low dose antidepressants. X-rays, blood tests, endoscopies and other diagnostics tests may not reveal any obvious abnormality.

To coincide with IBS awareness month two practitioners, Sophie Driver and Duncan Ford, from the Broad Street Practice are offering sufferers of IBS a package of nutritional advice and acupuncture, to target the causes of gastrointestinal discomfort.

• For more information on the package please contact the Broad Street Practice on 01780 480889 or see the www.thebroadstreetpractice.co.uk STAMFORD LIVING MAY 2014

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A PLACE OF RELAXATION...

A PLACE OF RECREATION...

A PLACE CALLED

Auburn Hill Whatever your idea of the perfect space, you’ll find it at Auburn Hill.

Every build is completely bespoke, as is our service to you. You choose your materials, and your preferred way of working with us, and we’ll do the rest.

To request a design consultation, visit www.ahorangeries.co.uk or call us on 01780 400 500. Alternatively, why not visit our Ketton Showhome.

Ketton Design House, Ground Floor, 63 High Street, Ketton, Rutland, PE9 3TE, Mon-Fri 9am - 5pm, Weekends by appointment only.

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Designer, Contemporary & Traditional Kitchens 39 St Mar y’s Street, Stamford PE9 2DS

Tel 01780 756050

|

www.stylek.co.uk

SPRING PROMOTIONS

NOW ON UP TO 25% OFF

View our web site for further offers

Free delivery Disposal of old bed Bespoke beds made to your required firmness

View our range of luxurious hand made Vi-Spring beds at our Peterborough & Stamford stores.

Should you find you have made the wrong selection of comfort after 30 days and before 90 days you may change your Vi-Spring mattress for another, please ask for details.

Peterborough Store

Phorpres Close, Cygnet Park, Hampton, Peterborough.PE7 8FZ Tel: 01733 891568 fitzgeralds4@btconnect.com

Stamford Store

West Street, Stamford, PE9 2PS Tel: 01780 762908 Fitzgeralds01@btconnect.com

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HEALT H & B E A U T Y

Summer Essentials Summer’s just around the corner and Genevieve Potter has a round-up of some hero beauty treatments which are guaranteed to make you feel and look your best

The Power Firm body treatment at Emma Cannings Emma and the team are evangelical about their recently introduced Pinks Boutique brand of organic skincare. Made in the UK, the range excludes many of the cheap (and potentially harmful) ingredients which are found in many beauty brands - even some of the “upmarket” ones.

I was fortunate to experience the Pinks Boutique Power Massage body treatment, which is the perfect way to tone and prep your skin for a summer holiday (£60 for 90 minutes).

Unlike many so-called “full body” massages, this is a treatment which literally does treat you from top to toe; starting with the feet which are cleansed and soothed with a warm soak and a gentle Himalayan salt scrub.

I chose a lemongrass and mandarin detoxifying oil for my treatment from a range of pure cold-pressed oil blends. A fusion of Eastern and Western techniques are used for the massage itself; with precise, firm movements over the body and face used to target and work on the body’s energy lines. At the end of the 90 minutes, the back is re-massaged whilst gently sitting up, so there’s no light headedness which I have previously experienced with this type of treatment.

It gently eased some sore muscles in my back and shoulders; and I left feeling relaxed, uplifted and energised (it also made a real difference to my skin, which felt noticeably firmer). Definitely worth scheduling in for summer; it’s (almost) as good as relaxing on an Indonesian beach.

• Emma Cannings, Stamford Garden Centre, Great Casterton, Stamford, PE9 4BB Tel: 01780 766583 www.emmacannings. co.uk

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Inch-loss and pampering at Equilibrium Equilibrium are the address-book secret of those who need to lose a few inches, fast. The Universal Contour InchLoss Wrap gets instant results – guaranteeing a six inch loss in two hours.

A unique blend of mineral rich clay and specialist body wrapping techniques help cleanse and detoxify, actively compressing soft fatty tissues, to create instant inch loss. The treatment also includes an express facial (worth £30).

For a more sensory experience to make you and your skin feel reborn, the Indocéane is a 90-minute exotic ritual. The treatment commences with an Egyptian-style milk foot bath, followed by a Mediterranean influenced body exfoliation.

You will then experience an Ayurvedic inspired massage, using warmed oils, and the final step is a sublime cream body wrap, to leave the skin feeling baby soft.

READER OFFER - book and pay for a course of three Universal Contour treatments (£175) and receive a Universal Contour goodie bag with athome products, worth £50. Or book an Indocéane spa ritual for just £50 (usually £75), or you can enjoy this indulgent treatment with a loved one in Equilibrium’s Meadows Suite, £95 for two people (available TuesdayFriday).

Both offers must be taken before 31st May 2014 - please mention Stamford Living at the time of booking.

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Face and eyebrow threading at Oscar Rose Threading is an ancient method of hair removal using a loop of strong cotton thread, removing hair at the follicle level. It is particularly good for areas such as the chin, jawline and cheeks, where fine downy hair is present (those areas where hair suddenly seems to show up in the sunshine).

It’s quick, relatively painless and ideal if you’re sensitive to wax.

After the treatment mineral make-up can be applied to lessen any temporary redness.

For a 30-minute full face thread the cost is £25, including an eyebrow shape.

• Oscar Rose, 7 Ironmonger Street, Stamford PE9 1PL Tel: 01780 480777

Beauty heroes at Body Matters At Body Matters’ new location on Brownlow Street (off Wharf Road), you can stock up on everything you’ll need for safe, glowing summer skin.

The new Dermalogica Protection 50 Sport (£29.90) is a brilliant multi-tasker; suitable for both face and body in one handy tube, it leaves the skin feeling fresh and light and it won’t irritate or clog. At the end of a day of sunshine, Kirsten and the team also recommend Dermalogica After sun Repair (£29), to replenish antioxidant levels in the skin, helping to minimise the signs of ageing caused by UV exposure.

Dermalogica Pre cleanse is now available in handy individual wipes (£23 for 20), that can be used with or without water. These are ideal for your beach bag and remove sun cream, sweat, oil and even stubborn eye make-up without stripping the skin.

READER OFFER – when you purchase both Protection 50 Sport and After sun Repair, you’ll receive a free 20 minute Dermalogica Micro zone treatment, which targets specific concerns on small areas of the face.

Offer available until 31st May 2014, please mention Stamford Living at the time of booking.

• Body Matters Brownlow Street, Stamford, PE9 2EL Tel: 01780 270002 www.bodymattersstamford.co.uk

Sun kissed beauty at Asembo The Asembo team looked long and hard for a tanning system that had no “nasty” chemicals, opting for Kissed by Mii. This is a new tanning system which is professionally applied and contains pure marine extracts to replenish the skin, leaving it sublimely soft with a glowing, natural tan.

Asembo also stock the range of Kissed by Mii products for those wanting to tan at home. The team can talk you through three simple steps to help you to prepare, bare and care for your skin.

READER OFFER - Stamford Living readers can have their first Kissed By Mii professional treatment for just £15 and a further 10% off the retail product range during May 2014 – please mention Stamford Living at the time of booking.

• Asembo, 20 St Leonard’s Street, Stamford PE9 2HN Tel: 01780 765337 www.asembo.co.uk

Divine summer skin at Chameleon The Divine range from Caudalíe at Chameleon has been a worldwide hit and the latest addition is Divine Scrub (£21.50). Containing natural brown sugar crystals and four exceptional plant oils (grape, argan, hibiscus and sesame), the formulation is 97% natural.

Used twice a week on damp skin, it will gently soften off hard skin patches on heels, knees and elbows and is also ideal as a hand treatment to leave neglected hands looking plump and hydrated. It is recommended for use a couple of days before a spray tan, but if you don’t like the mess and smell of fake tans, then the Caudalíe Divine Legs lotion (£26) is for you.

• Chameleon 5 St Mary’s Hill, Stamford PE9 2DP Tel: 01780 755405 www.chameleonboutique.co.uk

Cellulite Expert Detox Therapy at Flawless Faces This is a new treatment from French brand Décleor, now available for summer at Flawless Faces. Our French counterparts definitely know a thing or two about zapping cellulite and this has been designed to combat fatty deposits and toxins on thighs, buttocks, hips and stomach; it also improves skin tone, tightness and elasticity.

This treatment begins with a rejuvenating head-to-toe skin polish to reveal fresh, smooth skin. This is followed by a 30 minute draining massage, using firm sweeping movements to stimulate circulation and eliminate toxins.

Finally a wonderfully warming mask containing grapefruit, ginger and pepper is applied to reduce the appearance of dreaded “orange peel” and improve circulation.

Effects are noticeable after a single treatment, but for optimum results a course of four to six is recommended. Cellulite Expert Detox Therapy costs £45 for 60 minutes.

• Flawless Faces, 3 Red Lion Square, Stamford PE9 2AJ Tel: 0844 999 3365 www.flawlessfaces.co.uk

Perfect beach skin at the Advanced Skin Clinic Over time, the skin on our body can become less smooth and even, but this isn’t something to just put up with. Carolyn Claypole at The Advanced Skin Clinic specialises in advanced electrolysis, a treatment used to treat skin tags, warts, blood spots and skin lesions caused by sun damage and age. Please call to book your free consultation.

Also available at The Advanced Skin Clinic, the Jane Iredale range of mineral make-up has some brilliant products for summer, including the “Powder Me” dry sunscreen (£35). This is a mineral-rich powder which you brush across the skin, delivering water-resistant, SPF 30 protection, without chemicals, fragrances or preservatives. “Powder Me” can be used for the face, body, or scalp and can be applied over make-up for a flawless beach face (and because it’s a powder, you won’t have to put up with sand sticking to you).

• The Advanced Skin Clinic 8, High Street, St Martin’s Stamford, PE9 2LF Tel: 01780 481155 www.asclinic.wix.com/advancedskinclinic

Luscious lashes at Essence of Beauty Low-maintenance lashes are a must for the holiday season. Lash Perfect eyelash extensions at Essence of Beauty are individual synthetic lashes that are applied directly onto your natural eyelashes. Available in a range of lengths, thicknesses and curvatures, you can achieve a natural look that avoids having to wear mascara on holiday, right through to a full-on, wide eyed effect.

Using a flexible adhesive, each synthetic lash extension is gently bonded one by one to give a precise, perfect result that feels like your own lashes.

READER OFFER – Stamford Living readers can get a set of Lash Perfect eyelash extensions for £48 (usual price £55) for the month of May 2014 – please mention Stamford Living at the time of booking.

• Essence of Beauty, 15 St Mary’s Street, Stamford, PE9 2DF Tel: 01780 763564 www.essenceofbeauty.co.uk STAMFORD LIVING MAY 2014

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ENJOY THE ULTIMATE ONE-TO-ONE CONSULTATION AT MAPLES OF STAMFORD!

WILLIAM WHEELWRIGHT IS PLEASED TO ANNOUNCE HE IS NOW WORKING ALONGSIDE MAPLES OF STAMFORD

Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays in Stamford.

Enjoy a 30 minute beauty appointment totally focused on you, with a personalised consultation to address your individual needs.

Whether you need skin care advice, make-up tips or body care solutions, the Clarins Expert will be here to answer all

Will was a top stylist at a flagship salon in London, and is now bringing his 20 years experience to the area.

He is creative, imaginative but most of all personalises each cut for his client to make them look and feel great!

your questions.

Date: Friday 6th June 2014 Time: 10am – 4pm Tel: 01780 752 725 £5 booking fee, will be redeemable against any Clarins product purchase.

Tel: 01780 752725 to book an appointment

24 St Mary’s Street, Stamford, PE9 2DJ www.maplesofstamford.co.uk

Physiotherapy & Sports Injury Centre @ Greetham Valley

Who we are The new centre presents the multidisciplinary team of a Sports Physician, Physiotherapist, Podiatrist and Dietitian all under one roof. The team aims to provide elite level treatment methods to the general public.

Treatments we offer General Physiotherapy and Musculoskeletal Assessment Sports Injury Assessment and Rehabilitation Sports Massage, General Massage and Spinal Manipulation Post Operative Rehabilitation Chiropody and Sports Podiatry Gait Analysis and Orthotics Dietetics and Sports Nutrition General Fitness Assessments

For further enquiries or to book an appointment call: 01572 812212 email: info@physiosportsinjury-greetham.co.uk visit: www.physiosportsinjury-greetham.co.uk

‘Caring for Local Athletes’ Physiotherapy & Sports Injury Centre

Greetham Valley Hotel, Golf and Conference Centre, Wood Lane, Greetham, Oakham, Rutland, LE15 7SN

LOCAL PRIVATE CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGISTS Specialising in treating: • Low self-esteem and loss of confidence • Low mood, depression, self-harm and suicidal thinking • Anxieties, phobias, obsessions

and ruminations • Significant life events, trauma,

nightmares, flashbacks • Attachment and relationship difficulties • Abuse (physical, emotional and sexual) Adult Speciality

Johan Truter

Tel: 01780 758556 www.psychologistuk.co.uk Orion House, 14, Barn Hill, Stamford, PE9 2AE

Child and Adult Speciality, EMDR Practitioner

Dr Alexandra Dent

Mbl: 07986 585270 www.alexandradent.co.uk

Orion House, 14, Barn Hill, Stamford, PE9 2AE Church Street Practice, Melton Mowbray LE13 0PN

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Snowdens Physiotherapy Snowden’s Physiotherapy is a leading musculoskeletal clinic based in the centre of Stamford founded by Stuart Compton BSc (Hons) physiotherapy MCSP. The practice offers a high-quality, professional and friendly service by fully-qualified, experienced, Chartered and State Registered Physiotherapists.

We provide one to one comprehensive assessments in a relaxed environment and focused effective treatment of your condition. Whether you are looking to overcome injuries, eliminate pain, recover from surgery or just be in optimal health Snowden’s physiotherapy has a solution for you.

Although not exhaustive common conditions we treat include • Back and neck problems • Sports injuries • Joint problems • Muscle, ligament and tendon injuries • Chronic pain • Fibromyalgia • Falls • Arthritis and rheumatism • Post-operative rehabilitation • Postural problems • Work related injuries • Whiplash and personal injury • Stroke and Adult neurological conditions

Common treatments include • Manual therapy • Exercise therapy • Sports Rehabilitation and massage • Electrotherapy • Acupuncture • Chronic pain management • Falls prevention • Pilates • Ergonomic and postural advice • Stroke rehabilitation

For further enquiries and booking contact:

Mr Stuart Compton

HCPC Registered, BSc(Hons) Physiotherapy MCSP

www.snowdensphysiotherapy.co.uk Snowdens Physiotherapy, Snowdens Hospital, Scotgate, Stamford, Lincs, PE9 2YF

Tel: 01780 762244

Email: snowdensphysiotherapy@outlook.com

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UPD ATES

Tatty Bumpkin Tatty and Baby Bumpkin is a new approach to child health and the need to put the child’s wellbeing at the centre It appreciates the wider role that physical activity plays as a key asset for a child’s health and wellbeing. Bumpkins effectively promote a young child’s sense of wellbeing through encouraging physical skills, expanding their imagination, enhancing concentration and elevating self-esteem and confidence. They aim to provide a well-researched, quality, holistic experience.

Through the music, Baby & Tatty Bumpkin dolls and props and Yoga poses, a story is told which enhances the group experience and fun of the session which in turn helps to ensure the activities can be easily remembered for play at home.

The lessons are easy to follow and give Parents & Carers ideas for floor-based activities they can take away with them.

Through a progressive yoga curriculum, Bumpkins aims to provide a creative alternative to children’s activity programmes. Encouraging children to engage in a relaxing, physical activity which encourages movement and enhances development.

Tatty & Baby Bumpkin classes encourage Parents & Carers to do the poses with the children thus giving them a chance to move themselves and enjoy the activities and relaxation with their children and learning new ideas for use at home.

When children are encouraged and supported to follow their own curiosity, to feel the satisfaction of meeting their own challenges, to think for themselves and to plan and monitor how they go about their activities, they become self-regulated learners who later outstrip children who may have developed more subject-based knowledge but are more passive in their learning.

• So come and join in the fun and learning experience.

To book or find more information call Kate or Sam on 07770162767 or email rutland@tattybumpkin.com

Stamford Amateur Musical Society 109 years since its first ever production, Stamford Amateur Musical Society is the longest running theatre group in the town. Many things have changed over the years, including the name of the group (which started life as Stamford Amateur Operatic Society in 1905) and the type of show (Gilbert and Sullivan and English Light Opera featured frequently among the pre-war favourites), but the local appetite for musical theatre remains strong and healthy.

This year the Society is bringing us a cinema classic, Singing in the Rain, with a newly-released stage version that recently enjoyed a very successful professional run in the West End. Tap shoes and umbrellas at the ready, the energetic cast promises an evening of great music, fun and laughs, with all-time favourites such as You are my Lucky Star, Make em Laugh, Good Morning and, of course, with the title song, a recreation of one of the iconic scenes in the history of musicals.

• The show runs from Wednesday 11 to Saturday 14 June at Stamford Corn Exchange Theatre.

Tickets from £10: 01780 766455 or www.stamford-corn-exchange-co.uk

The Annual Bythams Charity Sponsored Ride for Horses

Riders of all abilities are being invited to take part in a sponsored charity event in the grounds of Grimsthorpe Castle near Bourne from 10am on Monday, May 5th. There are three routes to choose from – 8, 12 and 15 miles and all are within the confines of the park. The routes take riders through ancient woodlands, past a 50-acre lake and alongside the imposing castle – one of England’s most impressive hidden gems. Those who enjoy something more challenging might choose to tackle several optional jumps that once formed part of a Hunter Trial course here – including some that have been freshly restored and are in use for the first time in years.

“You don’t normally get the chance to ride around Grimsthorpe Park” said Entries Organiser Rosemary Player. “It’s a wonderful opportunity and we’ve had exceptionally good feedback from many of the people taking part.”

No public roads are used on any of the routes, which gives the ride a very special feel so that everyone enjoys this friendly event through the magnificent rolling countryside through the park. The event raises funds to help maintain the village churches of Little Bytham, Castle Bytham, Careby and Creeton, and makes an equally sizeable contribution to a different charity every year – this year the Animal Health Trust.

• For more information and entry details contact Rosemary on 01778 590350, email rosemary.player@ppbid.com, or visit the event website at www.bccride.com

The Stamford Music Festival This year on June 21st and 22nd Stamford Festival presents the Kiwanis Parade of Floats and the Lion’s Sunday Family Fun Day alongside a fabulous new week-long venture, The Stamford Music Festival. Featuring the cream of local talent and acts from further afield, the Stamford Music Festival runs from Friday June 20th to Sunday June 29th at a range of venues throughout the Town. Catering for all tastes, the Festival includes dance nights through to quiet acoustic performances of classical and light jazz; pub-based heavy metal gigs through to classic rock; world and early music, a cappella folk, gypsy swing and youth events with open mic stages. A Grand Final BBQ on Sunday 29th June will finish off the week and give opportunity for open stage performances.

• www.facebook.com/StamfordMusicFestival. www.stamfordfestival.co.uk

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Gift Vouchers Available

Monday Clinics Now Available Chiropody/Podiatry • Treatment for Various Skin & Nail Conditions • Budget Toe Nail Cutting • Free Foot Care Advice • Hard Skin Removal • Painful Corns • Verruca Treatments Room available • Simple & Casted for rent Enquire within Orthotic Design • Diabetic Foot Care

Monday & Saturday Open 9am – 6pm Tuesday - Friday Open 9am – 9pm

Prices start from £17.00 Cut & Finish Book online www.browns-hair.co.uk 0844 999 3365 Red Lion Square, Stamford, PE9 2AJ

NOW RECRUITING

Full Time Stylists – young & experienced stylists – excellent pay rates

Apprentices/ School Leaver – Excellent training offering NVQ level 2 & 3 ; if you don’t want to stay on at school come and join a successful team of Hairdressers.

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Women’s Health

at Fitzwilliam Hospital

Fitzwilliam Hospital offer a full range of services for Women’s Health to give comfort and peace of mind. Our highly skilled consultants are supported by a team of specialist nurses and physiotherapists.

•

One -Stop Breast Clinic

•

Postnatal Perineal Service

•

Menopause Clinic

•

Menorrhagia (heavy periods)

•

Urogynaecology

•

Women’s Health Checks

Appointments to suit your lifestyle.

For more information please call our Hospital Service Advisor on:

01733 842 304 www.fitzwilliamhospital. co.uk Milton Way, South Bretton, Peterborough, Cambridgeshire PE3 9AQ

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GAR DE NING

Gearing up for the great outdoors!

Spring has sprung and with the welcome arrival of warm weather, there is an inclination to get outside and stay there for as long as possible.

Antonia Scott discovers some al fresco goodies to help you soak up the sun.

C

amping, Glamping, Trekking, Rambling, or simply al fresco dining at home - whatever your penchant for the great outdoors is, there are so many products to help you enjoy the spring weather when it arrives.

Stamford and the local area is abundant with outdoor gear, so make the most of what’s on offer and explore our green and pleasant land!

With garden and terrace areas becoming an extensive of our living and entertaining spaces, cooking outside has become increasingly popular. Aside from the stalwart barbecue, a favourite of mine has to be an outdoor pizza oven. The Sack Store in Boston and their newly acquired Stamford Garden Centre stock the British built ESSE Fire Stone (from £1800) which is a completely new way to bring together cooking and dining with al fresco living. The wood burning pizza oven reaches temperatures of 550 degrees centigrade and imbues dishes with an unmatched flavour. Food can be placed directly onto the stone in front of the fire - fantastic homemade pizzas can cook in just two minutes and the Fire Stone is equally impressive at roasting, baking, braising and chargrilling – a sure fire way to impress your guests.

THE TOP TRUMPS OF PIZZA OVENS: - The heavy duty steel base has a ‘pivot’ feature to allow orientation of the oven to be adjusted even during use.

- The oven is highly-insulated and has a winterproof exterior shell; - The side and base are made from separate locking pieces, allowing for expansion and contraction throughout the British seasons.

- The flue pipe extends well above head height to ensure a smoke-free cooking experience and the rain shield ensures the flue operates correctly in all weathers.

- The glazed stove door allows sight of food during cooking, regulates air flow to the fire and retains heat in the oven and the staycool, stainless steel door handle is springloaded to assist easy door closing.

- Optional side tables available to stack dishes/food; - It cooks very tasty food!

If you’d rather update your BBQ, The John Lewis BBQ with Grillstream Technology uses a unique system to channel oils and fats away, preventing flare-up and helping to retain the food’s natural juices and flavour. Grillstream Technology is included on John Lewis gas barbecues with 4 or more burners. A Grillstream grill is also available to replace your existing one if you have a 47cm or 57cm diameter charcoal barbecue.

John Lewis also stock an amazing range of outdoor furniture from the sleek, hand-forged wrought iron and steel Henley garden furniture (from £25 - £1299) which is coated with nylon and aluminium giving it a durable rust and weather resistant finish. There is also the stylish Longstock dining room table which is attractive and functional. With a classic look that’s enhanced by a tightly slatted table top it’s made from FSC certified teak that makes it suitable for all year-round use. The teak ages beautifully and complements a natural setting, or brings a touch of nature to any conservatory. Teak is a tropical hardwood that is well suited to outdoor use and requires little maintenance. When new, Teak has a light golden colour which will fade to a silver-grey. If the original lighter colour is preferred, it can be maintained by carefully sanding the table at the start of the season.

A new concept to the garden is the contemporary Farmers cottage rotating sphere (£7599) available from John Lewis, to relax and enjoy balmy summer evenings from. With the ability to rotate 360 degrees, your pod can be positioned into the sun, shade or out of the wind. Using six timber arcs and wide tinted windows the sleek design offers a full panoramic view of your garden. The entrance to the pod is set at 60 degrees

Farmer’s Cottage Rotating Sphere Seater

Fire Stone

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Kadai Firbowl

STAMFORD LIVING MAY 2014

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providing a comfortable seating area for up to seven guests.

What better way to wind down in the evening than in front of an outdoor fire with a glass of wine or summer Pimms in hand? With a vast range of outdoor heaters and lights available, there really is no need to retire inside until bedtime! The Kadai Firebowl looks wonderful on your terrace – and has had many admirers, including the Duke of Edinburgh who recently bought one! Available to buy direct from www.kadai.co.uk Prices start from £275, though the recycled versions start from £164.

Owner, Camilla of Snow Designs and Interiors has a wonderfully eclectic range of brightly coloured ceramics, glassware and bowls, perfect for outdoor entertaining, along with a Garden Living section full of beautiful slate products and some dovecotes which children will love to help hang in a favourite tree. Every family member will love the informality of the large knitted pouffes in a range of sizes and colours (from £99-£145) – perfect for plonking yourself on with a cool drink in hand!

Conservatory Interiors by Vale specialise in luxury furniture, lighting, mirrors, paints and fabrics to bring your Conservatory, Orangery or Garden Room alive.

With a mixture of contemporary and traditional John Lewis products, their Grantham showrooms are a Longstock masterclass in sophistication.

If however, you are looking to venture a little further from home and need all-weather outdoor gear – from camping kit, trekking attire, hiking boots etc, try the very professional Precision Outdoors – they can advise and supply you on anything to do with the great outdoors.

House Doctor Bench Station

CONTACTS: The Sack Store, Boston, Redstone Industrial Estate, Spalding Road, Boston.

PE21 8EA. Tel: 01205 310101 Sack Store Stamford, Stamford Garden Centre, Casterton Road, Stamford. PE9 4BB. Tel: 01780 765656 John Lewis: Queensgate Centre, Peterborough. PE1 1NL. Tel: 0844 693 1752 Snow Designs & Interiors, 32 St Mary’s Street, Stamford, Lincolnshire. PE9 2DS. Tel: 01780 751 551 Vale Garden Houses, Belton Park, Londonthorpe Road, Grantham. NG31 9SJ. Tel: 01476 564433 Precision Outdoors, 27-29 St George’s St, Stamford. PE9 2BJ. Tel: 01780 762165 www.precisionoutdoors.co.uk

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HAVE YOU HAD THE OCULIST OPTICIANS

EXPERIENCE? THE

PRACTICE

An INDEPENDENT boutique opticians in Peterborough's Westgate Arcade.

We have a fantastic collection of frames from mainstream brands and exclusive specialist engineered frame designers.

Rimless, lightweight, retro, geek chic you decide. An extensive collection of wrap around eyewear, children’s eyewear and contact lenses are also available.

GERRY SONDH

ROB GILBERT

HANNAH CASTLE

Spends 40 minutes examining your eyes. He caters the eye test to address your needs. The test includes digital retinal photography, glaucoma pressure check, visual field examination as standard. Gerry concludes the examination by giving advice about the most suitable eyewear.

Combines his supreme spectacle lens knowledge with his eye for bespoke frame design to find you the “perfect” pair of glasses. Rob is one the UK’s leading TD Tom Davies bespoke frame designers so if you don’t see your perfect frame in the practice he will design it for you.

Clinical excellence and a flair for fashion is the basis of your style consultation with Hannah.

She will push the boundaries and get you trying new and innovative styles.

OPTOMETRIST DIRECTOR

OCULIST MANAGER

DISPENSING OPTICIAN

FIND US AT: 24 WESTGATE ARCADE, QUEENSGATE CENTRE, PETERBOROUGH

CALL NOW AND BOOK AN APPOINTMENT...

01733 555 621

www.theoculist.com 24

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UPD ATES

The Oculist Gerry Sondh’s goal, when he opened the independent Oculist in 2007, was to change the mindset for people when buying glasses. He wanted to make the experience fun and exciting rather than dull and necessary.

“People often get bored when they are choosing glasses and settle on a pair because they have limited availability or just can’t be bothered looking anymore. At The Oculist you will have lots of lovely frames choices to excite you. The hardest choice will be which frame to have first!”

Dispensing opticians Rob and Hannah have extensive spectacle lens knowledge.

They discuss occupation and hobbies with you before they recommend a spectacle lens type. Freeform varifocals and wrap around lenses are a speciality at The Oculist. Bespoke lenses can be designed to suit your occupation, maximising your area of clear vision.

The combination of these lenses with hard wearing antireflection coatings set you up to have amazing clarity whatever you are looking at.

The Oculist also has an impressive range of contact lenses. “Varifocal contact lenses are increasingly popular. Lots of our patients like the freedom of choosing whether they wear their glasses or wear contact lenses,” says dispensing optician Hannah.

“We can fit you with daily replacement lenses, two weekly lenses or monthly lenses. We also fit hard lenses”.

The combination of the ambient atmosphere and friendly staff, backed up with a comprehensive selection of eye services makes The Oculist an attractive package. It is different and unique and well worth a visit.

• The Oculist, Westgate Arcade, Peterborough PE1 1PY. Call now 01733 555 621 and book an appointment and prepare yourself for the complete eye experience.

Australia The reality is that most of us are only able to take two weeks’ annual leave and few employers are willing to honour three weeks in one go, so with this in mind Oundle Travel, the area’s designated ‘Aussie Specialist’ for 2014, focuses on just what you can achieve on a two week holiday ‘Down Under’.

‘Sydney, Rock & Reef’ The Sydney Rock and Reef combination is a classic itinerary offering a fantastic mix of city, outback and coastal experiences in some of the most stunning parts of Australia.

Days One to Four – Start your holiday in Sydney, endowed with a sparkling harbour and dazzling beaches.

Make the most of your stay by climbing the Sydney Harbour Bridge, cruising the harbour or watching a performance at The Royal Opera House.

The Blue Mountains are perfect for bush walking and wildlife spotting. The Hunter Valley is perfect for wine enthusiasts and day tours are available from Sydney.

Days Five to Eight – Bid farewell to Sydney and fly into the heart of the outback to Alice Springs, a vibrant town famous for its colourful atmosphere and art galleries. Alice is the perfect place to either hire a car or join a tour to explore The Red Centre and Ayers Rock.

Learn about the Aboriginal culture or why not

Are you ready for Pensions AutoEnrolment?

Garry Wiles of Peterborough Accountants, Stephenson Smart & Co offers the following advice: If you are an employer with staff working for you in the UK then automatic pension enrolment will apply to you. You will be required by law to enrol certain staff into a pension scheme, and this must be done from a staging date which will already have been allocated to your Pay As You Earn scheme.

Automatic enrolment means that, rather than having to actively choose to join a pension scheme, staff are put into one as a matter of course by their employer. If they do not wish to be part of the scheme then staff must choose to opt out. You will be required to pay a minimum employer contribution for all staff you put into the scheme, initially starting at 1% of salary.

It is essential to start planning early and the first step is to identify your staging date. Once known you will need to plan for setting up a pension scheme, or modifying an existing one, ensuring that your payroll function can handle the new requirements and ensure systems are in place to monitor the ages and earnings of your staff.

At Stephenson Smart we offer a full pensions auto enrolment facility, from initial assessment of the workforce and advice on the most appropriate scheme for your business, through to assistance with all of your employer compliance obligations and providing a fully integrated payroll and pension function.

• For more information please contact Garry Wiles on 01733 343275 or Ian Donmall on 01733 572200.

relax with The Sounds of Silence Dinner, at Ulhuru mixing fantastic food and wine in the most iconic outback location.

Days Nine to Fourteen – Fly northbound to Cairns, gateway to The Barrier Reef and Queensland. Oundle Travel recommend staying in Port Douglas just north of Cairns, a busy beachfront escape with a relaxed vibe, delicious seafood and a vibrant café culture. From Port Douglas the possibilities are endless – A Day on the Barrier Reef snorkelling and diving, Cape Tribulation where rainforest meets the reef, this area is great for kayaking, horse riding and walking, whilst a day or overnight at The Daintree Rainforest will not disappoint.

This is a fabulous finale to an incredible two week walkabout!

• This is just one of many itineraries Oundle Travel offers, so for up to date flight information and prices together with hotel suggestions from backpackers to five star luxury contact the team on 01832 273600 www.oundletravel.co.uk STAMFORD LIVING MAY 2014

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Our experience makes yours Caribbean | The Americas | Indian Ocean | Middle East | South Africa | Far East | Europe

Find your perfect holiday with your local, independent & friendly travel experts

Family Honeymoons

Worldwide City Breaks

Adventure Australia

• Professional, Unbiased Advice • Experts in Tailor Made & Bespoke Itineraries • Australian & New Zealand Specialists Market Place, Oundle, Peterborough, PE8 4EA 01832 273600 Email: sales@oundletravel.co.uk Website: www.oundletravel.co.uk

Follow us on

Facebook

facebook.com/oundle travel

Snow Designs & Interiors.

Interiors Emporium offering an eclectic mix of British contemporary & vintage homeware & Gifts.

Find us at...

32 St Mary’s Street, Stamford, PE9 2DS.

Tel. 01780 751551

www.camillasnowinteriors.com 26

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Uffington, Stamford PE9 4TD or telephone: 01780 757 946 www.huntersinteriorsofstamford.co.uk 27

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P E RS P E C T I VE S

Village Halls A village hall is at the heart of community life, providing a venue for all kinds of clubs, classes and celebrations. Alysia Anderson peeks behind the doors in the villages surrounding Stamford

T

he mention of a village hall invariably conjures images of WI meetings, noisy toddlers’ parties or Lycra-clad mums taking fitness classes. Such halls are at the centre of village life: affordable, handy meeting places for a variety of events. Some are historic buildings, often former houses or village schools, while others are modern, purpose-built venues. Whether new or old, there is usually a team of dedicated villagers behind the scenes taking care of bookings and upkeep on behalf of their fellow residents.

SCHOOL’S OUT Fiona Cowan, Chairman of the Collyweston Village Hall Committee, said: “It’s been our village hall since 1921 and before that it was the village school, built in 1877. Many people, including some members of the committee, went to school here and well remember the open coal fire it used to have. I love that it’s been right at the centre of village life all that time. When I moved to Collyweston in 1995, the hall was very ‘tired’ and in danger of closing unless serious money was invested in it without delay. With the help of Lottery funding and other grants, as well as generous donations from individuals and local businesses, in 1996 the building was completely refurbished and extended, central heating and wall insulation installed, and a new kitchen and toilets. People still say “Wow!” when they first walk in the door and see what a lovely space it is. You can’t beat that!”

Other halls that were previously schools include those in Barnack, Ryhall and Easton-on-the-Hill.

Barnack School was built by Lord Burghley and the oldest part, now the hall, dates from 1796. The stone cost the princely sum of £16.7s. The hall is named after the artist Wilfrid Wood who lived in Barnack for many years after moving there in 1937. He painted many street scenes of Stamford and Peterborough and his works still hang today in Peterborough Cathedral and Museum. The land continues to be leased from Burghley and the hall is used regularly for yoga, tai chi, bridge, WI meetings and carpet bowls, to name a few. This month, it will be a polling station for European and local elections.

In Ryhall, generations of villagers were educated at the National School, built in 1838, until a new building for the Church of England Primary School was built across the road in 1963. The former school became the village hall. Anne Virgin, who looks after hall bookings, was one of the last pupils to attend classes in the old building. She recalls: “I remember quite clearly the large potbellied stove in what is now the main hall. It was the only source of heating. The school had a large playground with monkey bars which to my knowledge caused no broken bones! When we moved to the new school we had to carry our own books and equipment.” Ownership was transferred from the Church of England to parish trustees in 1970 and a period of fundraising began to transform the building. The hall was extended, adding a large side room with a bar and kitchen, and a stage fitted complete with lighting and sound system. The hall is a charitable trust run by a committee made up of enthusiastic volunteers. Anne said: “We are lucky in that the hall is in constant use throughout the week. Classes range from dog training, a toddler group, zumba and yoga to sequence dancing, WI, Pilates and art and crafts, as well as a large number of private functions. We pride ourselves on being at the forefront of the many social events in the parish which are attended not only by villagers but the wider public too.”

The winners’ avenue

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LIVING HISTORY In Easton-on the Hill, the village hall is a typical Victorian property, built of limestone with a Collyweston slate roof and mullioned windows. The square bell tower has a panel on it recording the original endowment of a school for the village by Richard Garford in 1670. It houses a Benson clock that was installed at a cost of £65.11s. Several villagers gave money towards it, giving rise to the local name of ‘The Cadger’ by which it is still affectionately known today. The land on which the hall is built originally housed a barn and stables for the nearby Blue Bell Inn, and was owned by the Marquis of Exeter. In 1867 the Marquis agreed to exchange this land for the old school premises.

The new school was designed by a Stamford architect, Edward Browning, and built by local builders Messrs. Perkins and Sons at a cost of £1,200. New Road was constructed to provide access to the school ready for its opening in 1868. When new school premises were built nearby in 1928, the old school continued as the infants department until 1975, after which it was sold to the Village Hall Fund Committee for £3,550. It became a registered charity in 1977 and was designated a Grade II listed building in 1988. Since then it has been extensively refurbished, with double glazing, a new kitchen, central heating and repairs to the clock and bell. Chairman Tony Riley said: “It is a functional and comfortable building that retains many original features. All sorts of clubs and societies come here, for example, the Werrington Joggers use it as a base for their local runs.

The Bird Club and horticultural society keep their equipment in our storage facility which is a converted WWII air raid shelter. We also keep in there all the paraphernalia: coconut shys, marquees etc; for our annual May gala.”

Such overlaps of past and present show how intertwined village halls are with community life. In Uffington, there is a resident in her nineties who lived in the house that became the village hall. Local historian Michael Crowe recounted: “The present hall was built in about 1800 as a pair of semi-detached thatched cottages situated on the main road just past the Trollope Arms, as it was called in those days. Each had a large garden and was owned by the Earl of Lindsey, Albermarle Bertie. The cottages were later sold to the Sells family for rent to villagers. Local resident Mrs Ena

Troop, née Genever, lived in one of these cottages as a baby from 1922 to 1924. When the next-door one became vacant, she and her family moved out and Mr Arthur Sells donated the cottages to be converted into the present building for use as a village hall. The work was carried out by local builder Mr JR Thornton, ready for the opening ceremony on 20 October 1928. The hall has served the village well over the years. It has a large kitchen and is extensively used by both village groups and private parties.”

Not all village halls are in old buildings. In Tinwell, the original village hall is now a B&B and private home. A new hall was built using funds from various donors, including the Cecil Estate Family Trust and the Foundation for Sports and the Arts. It was opened by Lady Victoria Leatham in 1993. “It’s a lovely hall with lots of natural light” said Alan Oliver, who attends a Tuesday morning art group there.

LOOKING TO THE FUTURE Maintaining these village halls is an ongoing concern. In Uffington, fundraising events, including a Chilli Off cooking competition, are under way to raise £28,000 to re-thatch the hall roof. The hall will also be used to sell refreshments during the village’s annual Scarecrow Festival on 4 and 5 May. Regular supper quizzes are held in Barnack’s hall to raise money.

In Ryhall, Anne Virgin said: “We are constantly updating the hall to make it the cheerful vibrant hub that it has become over the years. This year we will celebrate ten years of organising a Luncheon Club for the elderly. We have been grateful for support in the past with grants from British Gas, Spire Homes, Help the Aged, annual precepts from the parish council and our own attempts at fundraising. These include our unique calendar and postcards, table top sales, bingo and promoting musical and theatrical events. Ryhall Revellers and Ryhall Pantomime Players have raised thousands for us and there have been some generous personal donations. We always bear the age of the building in mind and ensure we continue to boost funds.”

So the next time you need to book a venue, why not consider your local village hall?

• Barnack Village Hall Adrienne Collins 01780 740124 • Collyweston Village Hall Shelagh Busby 01780 444607 • Easton-on-the-Hill Village Hall Tony Riley 01780 764455 • Ryhall Village Hall Anne Virgin 01780 754621 • Tinwell Village Hall Dave O’Regan 01780 756341 • Uffington Village Hall Vanessa Kimberley 01780 239463

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EATING OUT

Bringing Milanese Aperitivi to Stamford Milanos has just opened on St Mary’s Hill, open as a café and light snacks during the day and then as a bar and nibbles in the evening. Nicholas Rudd-Jones went to try it out

T

he team behind the concept are Giovanni, Patrizia, Deborah and Luca, a close-knit group of friends and family who already run a successful Italian restaurant in Grantham called The Piccola Vergia.

They wanted to try something new and different in Stamford, based around the Milanese love of L’Aperitivo. According to Giovanni: “The aperitivo is a tradition deeply rooted in Italian culture. The clock strikes six and the bars of Milan are filled with people unwinding over their favourite cocktail and some delicious nibbles, before they make their way home. The ritual is about relaxing after a long day at work, with good food, good drink and even better company.”

So we substituted Stamford for Milan (the evening was at least warm) and aimed to emulate the experience. And we were impressed. Milanos offers something new in Stamford, the chance to enjoy some delicious cocktails (ranging around the £5-£6 mark) and a selection of delicious aperitivi (nibbles) for a fiver that you can pick at and come back to.

During the day they serve first-rate coffee, delicious ‘colazioni dolci’ – sweet bites.

• Milano Bar & Aperitivi, 16 St Mary’s Hill, PE9 2DP, Stamford 10am-10pm Tue-Sun

The Plough, Greetham Abigail Richardson and Tracy Watkinson completely forget that they are working over this fabulous lunch!

T

he interior décor of The Plough is comfortable and homely and actually a complete contrast to the gastronomic delights that are to be found both at lunch times and in the evenings.

The menu is extensive and very exciting and, after much deliberation, Tracy ordered the recommended house special, Smoked Salmon and Crayfish Cocktail (£5.95) which was perfection! Nothing like one would imagine – in fact a genuine piece of art, ‘stuffed’ with fresh fish and topped with a delicate parmesan crisp – ‘superb’!

I chose the Sweet Sticky Chilli Beef with cucumber salsa (£5.95) from the weekly specials’ menu and again it was nothing like I imagined – huge chunks of succulent

sirloin steak in a very delicate, sweet sauce and again a vision. Both dishes were more than substantial and could easily have passed for a main. We had, though, ordered Mark’s vegetarian special of the day – a Lincolnshire Poacher Frittata with salad and (buttery, salted) new potatoes. Thankfully we had the foresight to share, which left a tiny space to share the, again recommended, Mango Parfait with fresh strawberries and chefs tuille biscuit (£4.95).

Both were out of this world. Mark was keen to stress that all his ingredients are fresh and local and 95% of the food is made in house – the bread, the deserts, the petit four et al. His motto, “Good quality is key”.

Mark hosts gourmet evenings and special celebration parties in the dining room on

request where he will create a 6 course taster menu in collaboration with guests preferences, designed specifically to suit the party. Thursdays are curry nights with a new promotion of Cobra beer– find out details on facebook. https://www.facebook.com/ ThePloughGreetham. There is also a breakfast club every Saturday 9.30-11. Children eat free during half term holidays and with the really good sized garden at the back, with petanque, this has to be a pretty unique offering! There is also a BBQ hut and Mark’s ambition for the summer is to host candle lit suppers as well.

I will definitely be going back!

• Contact: The Plough, 23 Main Street, Greetham, Tel: 01572 813613

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CON T E M P O R A RY A RT S

Victoria George Victoria George works in two very different mediums – oils and pyrography. Jean Orpin and Sue Lee enjoyed discovering the outcomes of her talent

V

ictoria grew up locally in Uppingham, Rutland. From an early age she exhibited an artistic talent. After attending Oakham School, she initially pursued a career in consultancy in London but returned to Rutland when she started a family, and was able to take up her interest in art. She has recently moved to Stamford and set up her own studio at home.

To begin with, oil painting was her preferred medium and she took on a number of commissions mainly for friends. She painted portraits of individuals and groups and also painted their pets. Lately, she has added horses to her range of portraits.

Her aim is always to capture the character of the subject not just a good likeness. When it was exhibited, her self- portrait won the public vote at both the Stamford Arts Centre and the ‘Art in Lyddington’ summer exhibition at Lyddington Church.

Walking in the countryside to see wildlife is something that Victoria enjoys and this has inspired her to depict what she sees. She goes to Eyebrook and Rutland Water for migrating birds and to Fineshade for woodland subjects.

She decided that the best way to depict the birds and animals which caught her attention was on wood. She chose cedar, oak, sycamore and ash which have the most interesting shapes with knots and attractive grains; and she found that Lincolnshire Woodcraft Supplies in Stamford could supply the wood she required.

Victoria has developed her own style of pyrography (meaning ‘writing with fire’). Firstly she burns in the outline and details with heated wire, a time consuming task all done by hand. After the design is burned in, the pictures are coloured or tinted. Relief carving is also necessary to give depth, and mother of pearl is generally used for the eyes. Pyrography is a traditional art form all over the world and is now accepted as an art not just a craft.

• Victoria George accepts commissions for portraits and her wildlife plaques. More examples of her work can be seen on her website www.victoria-george.co.uk. She can be contacted at art@victoria-george.co.uk or by telephone on 01780 756534.

• Lincolnshire Woodcraft Supplies in Stamford is at The Old Sawmill, Burghley Park, Stamford PE9 3JX Tel: 01780 757825 - www.lincolnshirewoodcraft.co.uk (access from the Old Great North Rd)

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PE R SPE CT IVE S

John Clare, Nature Poet Rodney Lines, Vice President of The John Clare Society, commemorates the life of John Clare on the 150th anniversary of his death Commemorative Events to mark the 150th anniversary of Clare’s death

T

he year is 1818, and the young John Clare, clutching a bundle of papers, is just entering Edward Drury’s bookshop in the High Street in Stamford (now the site of Boots the Chemist).

He introduces himself to the new 21 year old proprietor, who replies, “Ah, Mr Clare, I believe you owe a considerable sum for magazines and periodicals, and it’s beginning to mount up. And I see you have brought some more of your poems which my predecessor has told me about. Well, I’ll have a look at them in my office while you continue to browse.”

Returning some time later with a broad smile on his face, Drury exclaims, “Mr Clare, please accept the magazines and periodicals with my compliments. You owe me nothing. I think we can do business!”

This imaginary conversation, based on real events, highlights John Clare’s struggle to get himself into print. Born in 1793 in nearby Helpston – then part of Northamptonshire – the son of a barely literate thresher, and after a brief but sound education at nearby Glinton School, Clare was variously occupied as a ploughboy, potboy, gardener and latterly lime burner, all the time working at what he really wanted to be – a poet. And now at last success was beckoning – “I was wearing into the sunshine”, as he put it.

Edward Drury’s cousin was John Taylor, of Taylor and Hessey, Fleet Street, London; they had recently launched the career of another young poet from a humble background, John Keats. But Keats was now seriously ill and unlikely to recover. Had they found another young genius? Clare wrote sonnets, like Keats, and sonnets were very popular then with the poetry-reading public. After searching and successfully securing financial backing and patronage from Earl Spencer of Althorp, Lord Fitzwilliam from Milton Hall near Peterborough, Lord Burghley of Stamford and the Bishop of Peterborough, “Poems Descriptive of Rural Life and Scenery” was published in 1820 and ran to four editions by the end of the year.

Introduced to London, he was lionized by the capital’s literary circle, among them Charles Lamb, Coleridge, Admiral Lord Radstock, the essayist William Hazlitt, De Quincey ‘the Opium Eater’ and a number of other leading writers and painters. In conversation at dinner parties Clare could hold his own with any of them and won admiration from all sides. His portrait was painted by William Hilton, R.I. Last, but not least, he married local girl Martha Turner. Things were looking good.

However, the vogue for poetry of nature and the countryside was already beginning to wane and when Taylor brought out Clare’s second collection, “The Village Minstrel” in 1821, sales were merely respectable. Soon Keats, Shelley and Lord Byron would all be dead, and the great age of English Romantic poetry would be

34

THE PRIMROSE Welcome pale primrose, starting up between Dead matted leaves of ash and oak that strew The every lawn, the wood and spinney through, Mid creeping moss and ivy’s darker green.

How much thy presence beautifies the ground, How sweet thy modest, unaffected pride Glows on the sunny bank and wood’s warm side, And when thy fairy flowers in groups are found The schoolboy roams enchantedly along, Plucking the fairest with a rude delight, While the meek shepherd stops his simple song To gaze a moment on the pleasing sight, O’erjoyed to see the flowers that truly bring The welcome news of sweet returning spring

“This Happy Spirit” Performed by the Fairhaven Singers directed by Ralph Woodward The concert will include the World Premier of ‘ClareVoyance’ by Somtow Sucharitkul and a new arrangement of a folk song by Ralph Woodward.

Date - 17th May 2014 at 7pm Place - St. John’s Church, Cathedral Square, Peterborough.

Tickets from Peterborough Visitor Information Centre (tel.01733 452336). £12.50 reserved seats and £10 unreserved.

• There will be a wreath-laying ceremony in Westminster Abbey on May 20th and several events in Northampton.

• There will also be the annual John Clare Society Festival in Helpston, celebrated from Friday to Sunday, 11th – 13th July. To find out more visit www.johnclaresociety.blogspot.co.uk

over. It would take seven years of delay and the collapse of the partnership of Taylor and Hessey before Clare’s masterpiece, “The Shepherd’s Calendar”, was finally published. It didn’t sell and Clare was constrained to travel to London and bring all the copies back by stagecoach in order to hawk them round the bookshops and inns in Stamford and Market Deeping.

His finest collection of poems, “The Midsummer Cushion”, remained in manuscript throughout his lifetime, to be published at last in 1978! Not surprisingly, Clare began to suffer bouts of severe depression, including delusions about his childhood sweetheart, Mary Joyce, and he was advised to enter a private asylum near Epping Forest. Despite excellent treatment he was later committed to Northampton County Asylum, where he continued to write poetry until his death in 1864. Clare is buried in Helpston churchyard. In 1989 a plaque commemorating him was placed in Poets’ Corner in Westminster Abbey, true recognition at last. Finally, which of the sonnets was it that so moved Edward Drury on that fateful day in 1818? We’ll never know, but here’s one of them, (above), written when Clare was only 16.

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MOT OR ING

How Green is our Valley?

Imagine our fairly tranquil patch of the UK even quieter, with the rumble of engines on the roads largely replaced by quiet electric motors. Thomas Edison and Henry Ford dreamed of cars being powered this way 100 years ago, but the technology wasn’t available then. Now that it is, a number of local organisations and firms are charging ahead with efforts to promote green personal transport in our area.

Jonathan Craymer reports

W

hen I was a lad, as the saying goes, the sight of cars belching out black fumes and probably a lot of nasty invisible pollutants too, was quite common. I remember my dad pointedly holding his nose as we passed the worst offenders. We’ve come a long way since then, cleaning up the internal combustion engine with stricter MoTs, catalytic converters and super-efficient engines built to minimise the amount of carbon emissions. But the trouble with engines burning any kind of fuel, it’s physically impossible to make them 100% clean.

ECO DRIVING Enter the electric car. No Even if you don’t own an fumes or hydrocarbon somewhat bigger problems. Firstly there’s the limited range electric vehicle, it’s st ill possible emissions, and virtually zero offered. Most will only do about 80 miles when fully charged, to drive in an envir onmental friendly mechanical noise, offering which would certainly put many buyers (like my wife) off. way, reducing your fuel consumption the prospect of much Then there’s the length of time it takes to recharge. Forget and emissions, as well as making yo quieter roads. Sounds the five minutes or so it takes to fill a conventional car with u safer.

Experts suggest try ing to drive as sm great doesn’t it? Well fuel. Plug into a purpose made 32 amp charging station, oothly as possible, avoidin that’s the theory anyway. and typically it takes three hours. Even longer if you use a g heavy accelerat ion and braking by plannin But though we seem to domestic 13 amp charger – 8 to 9 hours! There are faster 50 g ahead and reac ting early.

If driving a manua be getting there bit by kW chargers able to do the job in half an hour, but at £20,000 l car, always try to be in the right gear so bit, the dream of quiet, each, they’re less common. the engine isn’t ov er ultra clean transport for all The third problem is the battery and how you pay for it. With revving, nor is it lab ouring. still seems a little way off. the BMW i3 it’s not an option – it’s included in the price, but you Use cruise contro l We’ve had hybrid vehicles, get a seven-year warranty. However on Renault (Zoe/Kangoo) wh enever possible. with both petrol engines and and Nissan LEAF (the name apparently stands for “Leading electric motors, for a while - but Environmentally Friendly Family Car) models you pay around £5,000 we’re now starting to see quite a few up front or rent the battery at £70 a month (including VAT). Many cars running only on electricity, such as consumers hate having to make such decisions (I’m one of them!), so this may the BMW i3, Nissan LEAF, Renault Zoe and be yet another thing to scratch your head over.

Kangoo van.

RCI, the Renault-owned finance arm for Renault & Nissan will in addition, allow a driver to lease Unfortunately electric cars cost a bit more the entire vehicle. For example a LEAF Tekna (top of the range leather upholstery model) requires than those they’re replacing. According to a a deposit of £3,455, after which you pay £219 a month for three years. At the end of that period recent study by the US Congressional Budget you can either pay a further £8,914 to own the vehicle outright, or just give it back owing nothing Office, today’s electric models will set owners further. However if they manage to sell the car for more than this amount, you’re allowed to put back around $12,000 (£7,217) more during their that towards your next deposit. lifetime than equivalent petrol cars.

All this talk of battery rentals and leasing may sound a bit confusing – but something we’ll To help even the playing field, a number of probably need to get used to if this technology is here to stay. countries are subsidising the cost of new allOn the other hand there’s a real sense amongst electric vehicle supporters that we really do electric vehicles. In the UK the Government need to start somewhere. is offering a £5,000 rebate. So if you buy say a BMW i3 priced at £29,950, with the subsidy RE-CHARGING you’ll actually pay £24,950.

The other big question is, where can I charge my electric car? In addition to plugging it in at home, However for my money there are three work etc (read on a bit further on regarding Government grants), there’s a growing network of charging points. At the last count there were over 6000 across the UK and the numbers are

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increasing constantly. In the Peterborough area there are almost 30. These include six points recently installed in the Queensgate Shopping Centre, and a number put into four car parks

by Peterborough City Council at a cost of over £28,000. Carol Wakelin, Environmental Coordinator at Queensgate says: “At the time of our recent £10m refurbishment I suggested we install chargers, as it seemed the right way to go. Admittedly they’re only used on average about once a week, but we consider this an investment in a greener future for the city.”

The Peterborough branch of Dobbies Garden Centres installed four charging points when it opened in 2011. Manager Tony Cuthbert says only half a dozen owners use them regularly.

“Most work within a mile or so of here. They plug in and walk to their offices. A lot of people like the idea of this technology, but having to plan their journeys carefully and the initial cost of vehicles may be putting some off,” he feels.

Making the commitment Peterborough-based electrical installation specialist KA Wing installs BMW-branded charging units locally (part of a national scheme organised by BMW), and decided to buy a small fleet of the German manufacturer’s i3’s for its own use. Managing director David Lee explains: “We felt duty-bound to reduce our carbon footprint and actually these make great company cars. They’re very tax efficient as there’s no CO2-related benefit in kind tax.”

Technical director Simon Howitt adds: “80% of our journeys are 20 miles or less. And if drivers need to recharge, the built-in satnav cleverly tells them where the nearest points are.”

It’s worth mentioning that KA Wing is happy to advise on Government grants for those

wanting to get individual charging units fitted.

The grants may cover the whole cost, which is approximately £1,000.

DRIVING THE BMW I3 I tried driving the i3, which BMW claims is the first electric vehicle to be built from the ground up, and am happy to report it was simplicity itself. Efforts have been made to make the switch-on sequence feel the same as on a petrol car. There’s a ‘start’ button, a four-position ‘drive’ switch and a further switch to release the ‘handbrake’. Then a gentle touch on the accelerator and you’re moving off. At that point it does, to be honest, feel a bit weird, as there’s almost no noise, and a distinct sensation until you get used to it, that perhaps the car is running away down a slope – only of course it isn’t.

Acceleration is fantastic, with 62 miles per hour coming up in just 7 seconds, though Nathan Owen, Sycamore’s i Product Genius warned me that driving aggressively considerably shortens battery life. Another thing to get used to is having to use the brake pedal less. Just lift off and you’ll slow down or even come to a complete standstill.

As standard this vehicle does about 80 miles on one charge, and there’s an optional range extender pack which includes a 650cc BMW motorcycle engine designed to (if you’ll pardon the expression) kick in to maintain the battery’s charge, giving up to 180 miles total range.

Darran Foot, Electric Vehicle Relationship Manager at the Nissan dealership within Smith Motor Group, Peterborough says: “It’s a case of chicken and egg with the electric vehicle market. We’ve got to get people buying vehicles,

to get the Government and organisations installing charging points. People will just have to change their mindset and accept you don’t have the same range as petrol cars. But Nissan’s research shows most journeys are actually 25 miles or less.”

Are we about to see a new generation of vehicle batteries offering a much greater range? “The lithium-ion technology used hasn’t changed much in the last 10 years, so I don’t think so,” he says. “For my money the best development is the growth in the numbers of 50 kW chargers, which can see most models on their way within half an hour fully charged.

We’re told that around 90% of motorway service stations now have them.”

HERE ARE SOME OTHER ECO-DRIVING TIPS • check tyre pressures regularly • remove unnecessary kit from your car (including those heavy golf clubs!)

• take off roof racks, luggage boxes, etc when not needed to reduce air resistance • turn off engine if you have to wait a long time • only use air-con when you need to • plan your route or use navigational/advisory aids to avoid congestion. www.sycamorebmw.co.uk www.smithsnissan.co.uk www.smithsmotorgroup.co.uk/renault/ www.kawingltd.com/ www.queensgate-shopping.co.uk/ www.dobbies.com/find-a-garden-centre/ peterborough/

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OUT & ABOUT

Active Rutland, Walking and Cycling Burghley Country Fair Festival, 18th – 31st May MAY BANK HOLIDAY

T

he Rutland Walking and Cycling Festival is back for its fifth year and bigger and better than ever. Active Rutland leads the event and it will include family, inclusive and senior cycle rides plus two great launch events at Rutland Water and Ketton Sports Association. The popular festival is a fun packed celebration of Rutland and its glorious countryside.

The Walking and Cycling Festival will host led walks and cycle rides to suit all ages and abilities, perfect for a family day out. The residents of Rutland are encouraged to join the many visiting walkers and cyclists, who travel from far and wide to take part.

WALKING The festival will take place from 18th - 31st May and will begin with the ‘Kick-start your Health with Walking’ event on Sunday 18th May at Ketton Sports Association. From 11am - 4pm, there will be a variety of walks on offer to experience, local walking groups plus tasters of the new craze, Nordic Walking. Included in the day will be stalls and exhibitors from a wide range of charity and voluntary groups along with refreshments and a great atmosphere!

Following this one day event, the Walking Week will showcase the beautiful countryside of Rutland with a range of exciting walks, taking in the beauty and diversity of Rutland’s landscape, towns and villages - and with distances ranging from a short amble to a 6 mile plus ramble, there really will be something for everyone.

CYCLING The BIG Family Cycle Launch at Whitwell, Rutland Water will be hosted by Rutland Cycling on Saturday 25th May from midday, aiming to host a number of activities for all the family including cycling displays, face painting, bicycle smoothie maker and exhibitors for all things cycling! It will highlight the opportunities for you as a family, couple, friends or individual to get involved in cycling in Rutland.

From the 26th May, there will be a number of rides which the whole family and community can be involved in all week long. You can attend an evening bike ride to a ladies only ride and of course, the local nature rides for all the family. There will be a chance to experience electric bikes for your short journeys and throughout the week there will be cycle clinics to keep you informed on how to maintain your bike.

• Take a look at: www.activerutland.org.uk/walking-and-cycling-festival-201.html for the programme of events or for more information contact the Active Recreation Team on 01572 720936 or email activerecreation@rutland.gov.uk.

Cash matters

By Philippa Maffioli

I went to Greetham (have you tried The Wheatsheaf – great food!) last week because a retired client asked me to pop over to discuss her tax position. Did you know that dividend tax is a giveaway for anyone with a total income of less than £44,000 per annum?

With careful planning, most income from dividends is taxed at 10% and for high earners with a basic rate-tax paying spouse or civil partner; it creates a superb tax planning opportunity.

Returns from cash are taxed at 20% plus.

Compare this with the returns on an income unit trust or investment trust, where there is scope for

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Sunday & Monday May 25th & 26th 10.00pm - 6.000pm daily.

In the Andy Singleton Arena two of the new debutants are the ‘Horsemen of the Knight’ and the Walk Up Shoot.

The ‘Horsemen of the Knight’ will be presenting two different acts daily, in the morning an exciting Trick Riding display and their second display will be Medieval Jousting. The Walk Up Shoot will feature top gundog handlers and dogs simulating a typical day out at a shoot.

Moving round the showground there’s the new Eagle Show in the Falconry Village, it joins the ever popular Owl Show. It’s an in-depth look at Eagles from around the world.

There are lots of activities in the Country Kitchen with chefs, chefs and more chefs.

Resident chef Tony Robertson is joined by TV chef and presenter Mark Lloyd, and seafood specialists Henry Farrant and Mark Lees.

It’s always a great family day out with plenty to keep the children entertained - new this year is the Knights School, where ‘Horsemen of the Knight’ will be teaching budding young squires some basic sword and staff skills.

Finally don’t leave your dog at home, there are all sorts of events for them to enter including the Fundog Show - watch out for the Fancy Dress class.

When all that activity and excitement gets too much, take a look at the shopping opportunities, browse along the rows of trade exhibitors, wander in the Craft Village, or watch cookery demonstrations in the Food Show.

Finally, why not relax in one of the various food courts to round off your day.

• Burghley House, Stamford, PE9 3YG Admission £12.00 adults, £4.00 children. www.livingheritagecountryshows.com Tel: 01283 820548

income taxed at 10% and capital appreciation, which if realised, can benefit from the annual capital gains tax exemption of £11,000.

Of course, it is essential that you seriously consider your attitude to risk when identifying how you are going to generate an income, and it is important to find a trustworthy adviser who can speak to you about this.

Always remember, the higher your risk profile, the better your chances of achieving three goals – an increased level of income, a rising income and capital growth.

• Philippa Maffioli is an investment manager at Blyth-Richmond Investment Managers in Leicestershire, www.blyth-richmond.co.uk, 0116 2303663

STAMFORD LIVING MAY 2014

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AR T

A Picture Paints a Thousand Words...

Antonia Scott meets Gillian Durno – resident artist in Ketton

I

n 1993, Gillian qualified from Hull University as a primary school teacher with her specialist subject in Art. She taught in Ramsey, near Peterborough prior to having her son Lloyd, now 12; when she decided to have a career break from teaching.

Gillian picked up her paintbrush again in 2009, revisiting techniques developed throughout her degree whilst creating her own distinct style, particularly in contemporary still life and impressionist landscape painting. At that time Gillian began attending Alan Oliver’s painting classes at Stamford Arts Centre, where she realised her true talent. She subsequently became a member of an established painting group of professional artists who continue to meet every Tuesday.

“It was always my dream to be an artist, as art was my passion and attending art classes gave me more confidence in my talent and ability. I started participating in small local exhibitions and to my utter astonishment, started to sell my work!”

This got the ball rolling and in 2010 Gillian started to exhibit successfully in local village halls for the annual Rutland Open Studios Event which runs every year throughout June. Gillian quickly realised that painting from her kitchen table was no longer practical and so had a long-awaited and much dreamed of (modest!) studio built in her cottage garden in Ketton, which is fully insulated and has ‘proper’ plastered white walls for displaying her work. Gillian now participates in Peterborough and Rutland Open Studios annually from her own studio rather than exhibiting in village halls, and finds clients return year after year; some

having travelled for miles to visit and chat about her work, or to discuss private commissions and drink Pimms!

Having started from meagre beginnings, last September Gillian decided to branch out more seriously into the Gallery market, following a successful initial exhibition, in 2012 at Robert Fogell’s gallery in Stamford.

Success has continued and Gillian is now exhibiting in Lincoln, Stamford and Cambridge whilst hoping to get into London later this year.

“Last December I exhibited in a joint Christmas exhibition at Cambridge Contemporary Arts (CCA) on Trinity Street, who sold out of my work in the first three days and kept asking me for more! I’ve been invited to exhibit at a ‘Still Life’ exhibition at CCA from 26th April - 26th May alongside some very well respected and established artists, which I am very excited about.”

Having never lost her desire to teach, Gillian has recently started offering private tutoring after school hours, in numeracy and literacy.

She also intends to run ‘Art Workshops’ in the summer holidays from her studio and pretty cottage garden for children aged 6-11 years old.

Gillian is taking part in Peterborough & Rutland Open Studios this year at Lavender Cottage on: 7th – 8th June, 14th – 15th June and 28th – 29th June from 11am - 4pm. Here Gillian will be showcasing her latest original paintings and her new collection of ‘Giclee’ limited edition prints.

• Open Studios weekend offer only: mounted prints from £95.

Contact: www.gilliandurno.co.uk Tel: 07961 608172

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PR OPE R T Y

A profile of Goodwin Property Services Stamford Living talked to Robert Goodwin, who runs the independent Goodwin Property Services, about his business and the state of the market

IMPROVING MARKET “It’s all go at Goodwins.

Comparing the first 11 weeks of this year to the first 11 weeks of last year, new instructions coming to the market are up 8.3% whilst sales agreed are up 32%. Abortive sales are down 1% and completions are up 34%.

What does this all mean?

“It means that the market is improving and Goodwin Property Services are performing well. It also means that we could run short of stock so more new instructions are needed. Perhaps if you are thinking of selling or even on the market with another agent who has not produced the result you wanted, give Goodwins a call. Either call or email us at sales@ goodwinproperty.co.uk to request a free valuation - there is nothing to lose, but everything to gain.

“Other things going on include the launch of our cutting-edge new website that has just gone live. Micro sites for our Town and Country properties will feature highly as will full screen photos for all properties.

Have a peak at our two-minute video to understand what makes us stand out from the crowd.”

LINK-UP WITH KELLY LANG, MORTGAGE SPECIALIST “We are well aware that everyone has mortgage advice thrown at them at every possible stage of house buying and selling. We don’t offer mortgage advice but wanted to be sure that when people need someone, they work with a person who meets our exacting standards and is able to offer truly Independent Advice.

“Kelly is well known in the area and will quickly tell people if she can help and save them some money; and more importantly, if she can’t. Give us a call and put her to the test. It costs nothing to have a chat and it could save you money.”

CHANGING CONSUMER HABITS “The way most buyers connect with property today has fundamentally changed. Over 75% of customers who start to explore the property market do so now by browsing the Internet. 57% of the population now access services via a Smartphone or Tablet. Peak domestic internet use is between 6.00pm and 10.00pm weekdays, and 10.30am to 7pm Sundays.

“Goodwin’s service profile has embraced and adapted to this change in consumer habits, but still recognises the importance of the power ‘of the local office’. There will always be a sector of the market that prefers to come in to our offices and sit and talk through their requirements.”

EMAIL MARKETING “We have the facility to present your property to our 800 plus registered applicants with just one click through our email marketing tool.

We hope at Goodwins you will find we have an insight and understanding to local market movements at all stages within the sale and purchase process. Whether you’re upsizing or downsizing we are here to help and make what can at sometimes be a stressful process as comfortable and enjoyable as possible.”

• Goodwin Property Services. 01780 750005 www.goodwinpropertyservices.co.uk.

2-3 St Johns Street, Stamford PE9 2DA

Property of the Month: Spring Hill, Tixover £499,950 Spring Hill is a beautiful 3-4 bed stone cottage with mature wellstocked gardens leading down to frontage on the River Welland, with mooring and jetty, and spectacular views across open countryside beyond.

Set in the sought after village of Tixover, ideally situated close to several nearby towns and communication links, the property has been modernised and improved by the current owner and now offers highly versatile accommodation which really must be viewed to be appreciated.

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Independant . . . your local estate agent!

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More reasons to come and talk to us: Goodwin Property Services, led by Robert Goodwin and Simon Burton, have built their reputation living and working in the local area for 40 years. The local market is highly complex making this experience and knowledge invaluable when assessing values, changes in supply and demand as well as the numerous other factors involved in the buying and selling process.

The unique combination of experience we have at our disposal really does mean we can provide levels of advice, in terms of using property for investment or retirement planning, that is difficult to match. If you are thinking of going this route drop in for a chat and we will explain more.

Being recognised as the area’s leading independent agent is also something we value highly. The ability to react quickly to changes in the market should not be ignored. We are not target driven but want to act in our client’s best interests at all times and continue to build our reputation. You are dealing with the people who run the company and really care about what you think.

Our reputation is very important to us.

We really do believe that honesty and integrity are two of the greatest tools at our disposal and, combined with the level of professionalism we demand of ourselves, lead to a level of service that is hard to beat.

Whether you are buying, selling or letting why not let us help? All you need to do us is contact us by phone, email or through our website and we’ll do the rest.

Come on and give us a try.

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Why not give us a call now and put her to the test? It costs nothing to have a chat but could save you a fortune in the long run.

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L O C A L WALK

Wothorpe, Burghley Park & Pilsgate

POINTS OF INTEREST

Burghley Park’s creation of a footpath between Pilsgate and the main visitor entrance of Burghley has really opened up the possibility of a circular walk starting in Stamford and taking in Burghley Park WALK DATA Distance: 6.5 miles Typical time: 2.5 hours (Barnack ‘loop’ makes the walk 9 miles in total, 3.5 hours) Map: Explorer 234 Start & Finish: Station Rd Car Park, Stamford Terrain: Easy going

Burghley Park is known to most, but the southerly parts of the park which the footpath traverses have particular interest. The path crosses the Winners’ Avenue, which is part of the cross-country course and has a marker celebrating each winner of Burghley. There are also great views down towards Burghley throughout this stretch of the park.

The path through Burghley runs for a large part along the course of Ermine Street, the Roman Road that ran from London(Londinium) to Lincoln (Lindum Colonia) and York (Eboracum).

The next stop south on Ermine St was Water Newton (Durobrivae), on a crossing of the River Nene. A strongly defended settlement with earth and stone ramparts and ditches, access to the town was by three strong gateways. It was one of the wealthiest settlements in Britain and one of the centres of a prosperous pottery trade.

To the north, Ermine St crosses the Welland by the Stamford Junior School (where the Boudicea inscription is), and then goes along Roman Bank to Great Casterton, where extensive remains are still very evident opposite Casterton Business College.

Originally a fort, this settlement of around 8,000 square metres, which had stone walls after 320 AD, is situated in a bend of the River Gwash. It was a settlement with a mansio, a bath house, a Basilica and a temple. The housing was built from quality stone or was timber-framed, and the town had paved streets, a busy commercial area housing ore-smelting and the pottery trade, and related buildings, granaries, shops and warehouses. There was a cemetery to the south of the town.

The winners’ avenue

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Barnack Windmill. The tower mill at Barnack was built around 1797 and was in use up to 1914.

It is built of Barnack stone. It is now a private home. The mill still holds the original machinery inside.

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2 5 3

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©Crown copyright 2014 Ordnance Survey Media 052/14

PITSTOPS The Orangery at Burghley.

The Orangery Restaurant is open daily from 10am until 5pm, closed on occasion for private events on Friday. We especially recommend the teas, available from 2.303.30pm.

The Millstone Inn at Barnack Tel: 01780 740296 (if you are taking the Barnack loop) gets a very good rating both for food and service, and has all the traditional feel you would wish for from a local.

Numerous cafes and hostelries in Stamford.

THE ROUTE

1 2 3

Head south up Wothorpe Rd until it reaches the Kettering Rd; cross over, join a public footpath, then take the left footpath running straight up the hill to Wothorpe.

Turn left on reaching First Drift (making sure you look back for the great view), cross the Old Great North Rd and follow the footpath up to the golf club, where you turn left.

Follow the private road past the golf club, then follow the footpath signs through Burghley Park, all the time heading east and slightly south. The path goes across a stream, through a wood alongside a field and eventually reaches the road.

Turn left past the Barnack Windmill into Pilsgate village; walk through the village and on the other side you will see the new footpath just inside the hedge on the left of the road.

Follow this round until you reach the visitor entrance to Burghley Park; walk up the drive to the car park, then turn right along the avenue of trees, and right again to take you back into Stamford.

At the exit, cross the road into Water Street and cross the Welland again at Albert pedestrian bridge; walk up to the end of Albert Rd, then cross Wharf Rd into St George’s St; walk along St Mary’s St and down Castle St, then turn into Castle Dyke and cross the meadows back to the car park Barnack ‘loop’. At Point 4, turn right instead of left, and head through Hills and Holes and Barnack Village. The route then returns along the disused railway line to Hudd’s Mill. Take the road past Morrison’s back into town.

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SEA N HOPE COOKS

An old favourite

Sean Hope shares an old-school recipe, new suppliers and a fantastic photograph…

T

his month I’m sharing a really simple, traditional store-cupboard pudding recipe, which is in our repertoire at both The Olive Branch and our sister pub the Red Lion Inn, Stathern. I imagine it’s fed local residents for hundreds of years.

Sometimes you can’t beat basic, no-frills dishes.

Belvoir Marmalade Puddings Makes six individual puddings • 250g unsalted butter • 250g caster sugar • 80g egg yolks (approximately 5) • 310g breadcrumbs • 50g Seville orange marmalade • 7.5g baking powder 1 Cream the caster sugar with the butter until light and fluffy.

2 Beat in the egg yolks, then fold in the breadcrumbs, baking powder and marmalade.

3 Butter your cake moulds (if you have some, you could use wide, shallow coffee mugs), sprinkle them with flour and fill each with mixture two-thirds of the way to the top.

4 Bake in a preheated oven at 180C (Gas 4) in a bain-marie (baking dish filled with about an inch of water) – for approximately 25 minutes.

5 Allow to cool a little and then turn out. Serve with clotted cream and plenty of homemade marmalade.

What a picture!

Robin Stewart, who lectures at New College Stamford and takes pictures for us at The Olive Branch, has had two of his photos commended in the Pink Lady Food Photographer of the Year competition. One of the pictures (shown above) was taken during a trip he took with me last year to East Runton, Norfolk, to gain some seafood inspiration. Robin has also been shortlisted in the Event Photographer of the Year competition.

New ingredients and suppliers We have started using a new local free-range duck supplier at The Olive Branch – Hillfort Originals of Burrough Hill, Leicestershire. Looked after by fourth-generation farmer Joe Johnson, his ducks roam on ground near Burrough Hill’s iron-age hillfort. I’ll be using Hillfort Original ducks to make comfit duck leg, served with a cripy herb crepe, for my own take on crispy duck pancakes.

Norfolk Larder is now supplying our Cromer crabs and native Norfolk lobsters on a weekly basis. Their crabs baked in their shells and served thermidor-style are excellent.

PASSIONATE ABOUT GOOD FOOD? If you are passionate about local food and drink then you might like to join Great Food Club.

• Sign up at www.greatfoodclub.co.uk, free of charge.

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Alan and Jane Hewson of Eastwell’s Belvoir Ridge Creamery will soon be supplying us with Slipcote, a Camembert-style cheese, which I’ll serve baked with thyme, garlic, citrus and cider, along with homemade focaccia.

Left: Alan and Jane Hewson of Eastwell’s Belvoir Ridge Creamery with Jamie Oliver and Jimmy Doherty

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FOOD & DR INK

Lamb from Lincolnshire Sarah Lyon meets with Sophie Arlott, shepherdess and pedigree breeder

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hepherdess Sophie Arlott is reconnecting with the land, livestock and the wild life of her childhood where she had an outdoor free-ranging experience of being allowed to climb things, ride ponies and surround herself in the menagerie of animals that roamed freely both inside and outside her childhood friend’s home in rural Hampshire. The past meets the present as Sophie successfully pursues a long-held dream of becoming a full-time shepherdess producing exquisite meat bred from her native flock of pedigree Southdowns.

After a career in television production working with a wildlife film company in Bristol, Sophie and her family moved to Lenton in Lincolnshire where they renovated Old Manor Farm. Set amongst a spectacular landscape, Old Manor Farm lends itself to sheep farming where animals graze lush ancient Lordship pastures attached to the church complete with Roman fish ponds. “Historically it was women who looked after the sheep,” says Sophie. “After all there must be something in the verse, ‘Mary had a little lamb’. Sheep are flight animals and I think woman are generally gentler in nature.”

“I purchased some Southdowns and fell in love with them. From the start the plan was to grow the flock and show them,” says Sophie as she directs my attention to the bright reds and blues of ribbons won by her National Southdown champion. Sophie, an inspiring and enterprising woman, embraces all aspects of sheep farming - breeding, showing and meat production, and is rapidly winning national praise from Michelinstarred chefs. Cooking for her family at an Easter Sunday lunch four years ago, Sophie noticed a drastic difference between the flavours of her own home produced Southdown lamb and that of a locally sourced lamb shoulder she had had to buy in as lunch numbers swelled. Both shoulders were locally produced, with lamb grazing essentially the same ground and cooked in exactly the same way – but the Southdown had a sweet succulent flavour that the other did not.

Michelin starred chefs agree. Meat from Sophie’s flock features regularly on the menu at restaurants such as Hambleton Hall (1*,

Rutland), Restaurant Sat Bains (2*, Nottingham) and the Olive Branch (Clipsham, Rutland) as well as being on offer in Harrods’ Food Hall.

Sophie’s chosen breeds include Southdown, Romney Marsh, Cheviot and Hebridean. She is particularly enthusiastic about the Southdown rams crossed with her Hebrideans. “The Hebridean is unchanged since the Vikings, low in fat and a darker slower to mature rich in flavour meat.

This combined with the intramuscular marbling of meat produced from the Southdown produces an exquisite flavour. The cross is of the finest quality and as far as I know no one else is farming it commercially. It sells itself. I love the passion that chefs have for cooking with my lamb.”

“It’s great to have local produce on board especially with the outstanding flavour of Sophie’s lamb. It is a melt in the mouth absolutely outstanding ingredient to put on the menu here and lives up to the bill.” ~ Head Chef, Aaron Patterson at Hambleton Hall Sophie has created a unique product driven by customer enjoyment whilst maintaining unparalleled consideration for animal welfare. Sophie personally loads up and drives the livestock to a local abattoir in Boston.

Small and run along traditional lines, Sophie rates them highly for their expertise, skill and respect for the animal. Further help comes from David, 50 years a shepherd, who is on hand to help move, scan and worm. With 50 Hebrideans, 110 white ewes and Sophie’s native flock of Southdowns, David’s shepherding expertise has been invaluable.

Nature has allowed Sophie to make a living at what she loves doing.

Adding to this, Sophie’s Lavinton Lamb satisfies a growing desire for consumers to connect to the provenance of where the food they choose to feed their family comes from. Actively keen to grow her restaurant and retail trade, with forays to London and elsewhere, Sophie also sells direct to the public where customers can visit the farm, see the flock in the field and meet the shepherdess herself.

• Sophie Arlott, Old Manor Farm, Lenton, Grantham, Lincolnshire NG33 4HG - sophie@lavinton.com, Tel: 01476 585960, www.lavinton.com STAMFORD LIVING MAY 2014

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B R I N G I NG L OCA L FOOD T O LIFE

Kicking the bottle The Bottle Kicking Cider Company is inspired by one of the maddest local rituals in Britain, discovers Matt Wright

E

very Easter Monday, cider-maker Rob Morton and his wife Tracey quietly sip their latest brew with friends while watching grown men wrestle just beyond the end of their garden.

The turf they look out upon in Hallaton, south-east Leics, has hosted the same mass brawl annually for at least 200 years, although the origins of the spectacle are thought to stretch back over 1,000 years further. Called the Hallaton Bottle Kicking, it is a good old fashioned scrap between the neighbouring villages of Hallaton and Medbourne. After kick off, the aim is to force three 5kg bottles – filled with ale, naturally – over your village’s ‘try’ line.

Each try line is a stream, and each stream is 1.6km apart. The only rules are no eye-gouging, no strangling, and no weapons.

This eccentric ceremony – which also includes the baking and distribution of a large hare pie – is the inspiration behind Rob and Tracey’s Bottle Kicking Cider Company, which was launched from their Hallaton home in 2012.

“In many ways, the annual Bottle Kicking gave birth to my cider company,” says Rob. “The event ties in perfectly with cider making: it takes place at the start of spring each year – traditionally when the cider you pressed with last year’s apples is ready to drink. The sap is starting to rise, the days are getting longer, so it all fits together. Also, the Bottle Kicking is an ancient English custom, and so is cider-making… And drinking.”

Rob’s cider – made About the writer the traditional way, Matt Wright but in this case using founded and runs local Leicestershire Greatfoodmag.co.uk and apples blended with Greatfoodclub.co.uk, Gloucestershire cider two Leicestershireapples – is on the based websites that celebrate and promote up. Combining the local food and drink. complex flavours His Great Food Club found in English Handbook 2013/14 is farmhouse ciders with out now. almost-dangerous

Photo: Rob Howden

drinkability, it has gained many fans and is on sale at a growing number of local pubs and shops, from Waitrose to JD Wetherspoon. And to crown an excellent 12 months, Rob has now teamed up with the region’s oldest and biggest brewer and pub owner, Everards Brewery of Leicestershire.

“The association with Everards – another family-owned brewer with roots in Leicestershire – is fantastic for us,” says Rob. “Our cider is on sale at a growing number of Everards’ 175-odd pubs in the Midlands and it’s great to be working so closely with them. Their sales director Nick Arthur has been to Hallaton for several tasting sessions and he recently

challenged us to create a loweralcohol cider. That should be ready soon – it’s 4.5% and will be called Full Back.”

Rob, who originally trained as a flour miller, set up his Bottle Kicking Cider Company in 2012 with Tracey’s unstinting support. Rob explains: “I was working for a large food company in London and one morning, stuck in traffic on the M1 yet again, I thought, ‘I can’t do this anymore’. I’d been making cider for around 10 years – since moving to Hallaton – so decided to take it up professionally.”

Two years on, things are moving fast for Rob and Tracey. “Our draft bag-in-a-box cider is doing well and is our biggest seller,” says Rob. “People like to buy our three-litre boxes and keep them in the fridge at home, while pubs can keep the 20-litre boxes behind the bar or in the cellar connected to a handpump.”

With interest in authentically produced local food and drink still on the rise, and with Bottle Kicking Cider being so drinkable and having such a memorable name and inspiration behind it, the future looks rosy for Rob and Tracey, especially now they have linked up with Everards Brewery.

Join Matt’s food club – Great Food Club – free of charge and discover the very best local food and drink.

Members can enjoy special offers at around 100 handpicked independent pubs, restaurants, producers and farm shops www.greatfooodclub.co.uk/join

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How Rob makes his cider…

“I

n autumn, our cider apples are handpicked from an orchard in Gloucestershire, delivered to Hallaton, and pressed within 48 hours. High in tannins, the juice is big in flavour, giving depth and complexity in the final blend.

Our Leicestershire apples are naturally more acidic, giving a sharpness that balances the finished brew.

“T

he apples are washed, milled and pressed as soon as they arrive at the farm. The juice is then left to slowly ferment.

The apples contain natural yeasts, but we also use a Champagne yeast to enhance the process. We allow all the natural sugars present in the juice to turn to alcohol, and we are left with a dry, draught cider. We do not add any sugar during fermentation to increase alcohol production – we just let Mother Nature run her course.

“T

he cider sits on the residual yeast for a short time before we ‘rack off’ into large airtight containers, to ensure the cider maintains its freshness. It is then left to mature and develop gradually over the cold winter months.

“I

n spring we blend our base cider into our range of draught ciders for your enjoyment.”

Where to try Bottle Kicking Cider locally

The Bewicke Arms, Hallaton (currently being refurbished) The Grainstore, Oakham Farndon Fields Farm Shop, Market Harborough The Black Bull, Market Overton The King’s Arms, Wing Nevill Café, Medbourne Great Easton and Middleton village shops JD Wetherspoon, Oakham JD Wetherspoon, Melton Mowbray Waitrose, Market Harborough and Oundle For more information, visit thebottlekickingcidercompany.co.uk STAMFORD LIVING MAY 2014

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Property Expert Joins Legal Team G

ill Laycock may be a newcomer to local solicitors firm, Chattertons, but new to Stamford she certainly is not.

Having joined the firm in March, Gill has already spent twenty years of her working life in the town and she’s not stopping there.

The Residential Conveyancing specialist says she likes to bring a ‘friendly service’ to all her clients and emphasises the importance of being approachable, a trait that is welcomed and practiced across the board at Chattertons.

Whilst studying with ILEX Tutorial College, Gill spent two years training in all areas of the law before focusing on four main subjects, conveyancing practice, land law, planning law and landlord and tenant law. She now specialises in residential sales and purchases, probate sales, re-mortgages and transfers of equity. Gill is a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Legal Executives and has extensive local knowledge but also deals with transactions outside the area.

Gill is a Conveyancing Legal Executive but despite the thriving firm’s demanding schedule she finds time to enjoy football, reading and crafts.

Whilst maintaining her social life Gill also likes to sustain a good working relationship with fellow colleagues in order to deal with transactions efficiently. Gill’s sociable attitude, qualifications and experience are now a valuable asset to the firm’s residential team who deal with a range of conveyancng services.

• To contact Gill please call 01780 764145 or email gill.laycock@chattertons.com.

Working in partnership with our clients to achieve tax efficiency & business growth

• Personal Tax • Corporation Tax • Statutory Accounts • Partnership Accounts • Sole Trade Accounts • Business & Tax Planning • Payroll Bureau • VAT services • Bookkeeping & Management Accounts

Stamford Cupcake Company

Cupcake Classes & Workshop FROM COMPLETE BEGINNER TO BRUSHING UP ON YOUR EXISTING SKILLS • Cupcake Decorating • Cake Baking Workshops • Learn to Create Cake Toppers • Introduction to Sugar Flower Workshops Children’s Parties, Ladies Days & Hen Parties

CUPCAKES & CELEBRATION CAKES TO ORDER

Gift Vouchers Available

George Farm, London Road, Stamford, PE9 3JP Telephone: 01780 489364 or 07825 153003 www.stamfordcupcakecompany.co.uk •

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SHOW

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1st Showg 2014 round ANDC OUNT , Oa Y

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Be prepared for a jam packed day of family entertainment and fun in celebration of our Great British farming heritage MAIN ATTACTIONS INCLUDE: • The new craze of ‘Horseboarding’ • The ‘RAVC Military Dogs’ from Melton Mowbray • Back by popular demand the ‘The Sheep show’ • ‘Ridgeside Lurchers’ - “have a go with your dog!”

• A very impressive ‘Farming Through The Ages’ vinatge and modern equipment exhibition • ‘Birds of prey’ demonstrations and talks • Our New! ‘Rural Education Zone’ • Trade and craft stands

www.cracknellandco.co.uk Contact: Lucinda Cracknell T: 01780 483807 E: lucinda@cracknellandco.co.uk

find us on Facebook

Early Bird tickets available ONLINE ONLY from www.rutlandcountyshow.com Tickets are £8 (before 21st May) £10 before the show & £12.50 on show day. (concessions available)

Gates Open 8 .30am Free Parking New Rutland Show ground, Show ground Way Barleythorpe, Oakham LE15 7TW

FREE accompanied under 14’s

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UPD ATES

New Head Chef, Carl Long, steps up to the hot plate at Oundle Mill Oundle Mill is pleased to announce the appointment of new Head Chef, Carl Long, who is taking over from Gavin Austin. After a very successful two and a half years, Oundle Mill bids a fond farewell to Gavin who is looking to pursue a new challenge.

The new Head Chef is familiar to the Mill’s loyal guests as he has worked at Oundle Mill for two years as Gavin’s Sous Chef, before being promoted to the new position.

Carl has previously experienced a number of the country’s award-winning kitchens and even spent a few months in France developing his culinary skills. He has a great flair and talent for cooking and has successfully entered the prestigious Roux scholarship and reached regional finals.

Carl has worked with some of the most recognised chefs, including three years under Head Chef and owner, Steve Drake, in Michelinstarred restaurant Drake’s in Surrey.

Carl is delighted to start his first Head Chef role at the beginning of April, and is keen to further develop the Mill’s menus and build on the great achievements and reputation that the Mill has attained in the past few years.

Carl has said, “This is a great opportunity for me to develop myself as a chef, to improve my style and put my mark on Oundle Mill. I’m in this profession because I love doing what I do, my passion is to cook excellent food, using quality seasonal ingredients, and using local producers whenever possible.”

Six Bells at Witham on the Hill Early summer will see the opening of the Six Bells at Witham on the Hill, between Stamford and Bourne.

Building work is well under way, and an excited Jim Tevor (also owner of Jim’s Yard) says when finished, the near-£1million investment will look incredible.

“My first business was the Jackson Stops and I used to drive past the Six Bells every time I went to my dentist,” he says. “I always said to Sharon (wife and co-owner) if it came up for sale I would love to buy it. And last year it did - and we did buy it.

“Builders have been in since November and it really is our biggest challenge, but it is a fantastic building. It is going to look incredible when we open, but at the moment it is a massive building site.”

The bar will have a genuine wood-burning oven, being brought over from Italy, and the restaurant - featuring menus not dissimilar to Jim’s Yard and The Beehive (their pub in Peterborough) - will seat 80. And the southfacing courtyard will seat another 60.

Medasun Sally Stillingfleet writes: Medasun VeraVasi shapewear sounds good to me – if it holds me in, I am happy! But what’s it really like to wear?

I road tested a pair of Medasun leggings from local Oakham-based company in black. A nod to fashion but a nod to comfort too, with many benefits. Medasun 24/7 shapewear was originally designed for the sporting and medical sectors but it was soon recognized that all kinds of people could reap the benefits and so the shapewear designs were born. The benefits speak for themselves; the designs have ‘High Fashion’ credentials but the advantages are many. Lose a dress size - the shapewear is comfortable and oh so slimming. The woven construction of the fabric called Comfortweave® is patented but is a woven fabric, so it retains all the weave benefits of longevity and ‘pings’ back into shape unlike some other similar jersey knitted fabrics.

My leggings have definitely smoothed my curves and evened out lumpy legs. Now I can’t wait to try the ‘Bodysuit’ and ‘Bodyslip’ Order online @ www.bodyshapemedasun.com.

New Rutland County Showground The new Rutland Showground is the result of 10 years of hard work by the Society to secure its future. The County Show outgrew its original 28 acre showground site in Barleythorpe Road over 25 years ago so the move was made to Burley on the Hill, owned by Joss Hanbury. Whilst the society was extremely grateful to Joss for his generosity in enabling them to hold the show at Burley the time has now come for a move.

“The show is entering a new era and with that comes new ideas,” says Emma Dodds, the new Show Director of the site. “And for this year we are giving the County Show (which takes place on Sunday 1st June) an overhaul whilst still celebrating what’s great about Rutland, farming and craft. Our emphasis is on encouraging families and new people to the show that may be under the impression a County Show isn’t for them – where else can you go for a fun family day out for less than £16?”

The secretary encourages everyone to have a look at the new website for the ‘Very Early Bird’ tickets available to buy online at www.rutlandcountyshow.com Children Under 14 go free.

STAMFORD LIVING MAY 2014

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FR

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Stamford Town Council

Stamford

Summer Fayre SUNDAY 1ST JUNE 10.30AM - 6PM

ON THE MEADOWS FOOD

IC

US M E IV

STALL ENT P L S M UNC IN A T H R & JU ENTE TALLS DY F S UN F AFT R C Fun for all the family AIR

UB40 featuring...

ALI CAMPBELL, ASTRO & MICKEY VIRTUE Over 50 UK hits including:- Red Red Wine, Kingston Town and Cherry Oh Baby

BURGHLEY

SATURDAY 7TH JUNE Tickets £38.00 (£42 from 1st June) online at www.livepromotionsconcerts.com

BURGHLEY TEL: 01780 752451

STAMFORD ARTS CENTRE TEL: 01780 763203 CONCERT PRESENTED BY LIVE PROMOTIONS EVENTS LTD TEL: 01775 768661

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D IA RY DAT E S

WHAT’S ON Amander Meade selects some of the best entertainment in the region this month Monday 28 April to Saturday 10 May, daily 10am to 5pm EXHIBITION: Welland Valley Arts Society Spring Exhibition Always a very popular and lively exhibition with many artists available to chat and much of the work for sale.

This is a showcase of fifty to sixty local artists.

Stamford Arts Centre Admission is free.

Sunday 4 May, hourly sessions from 11am EVENT: Family Fun Drop In Day – Bugs Drop in for an ugly bug session followed by craft activities. Throughout the month there are lots more events and activities including wildlife based family activities and Osprey Cruises.

All information at www.rutlandwater.org.uk or Tel: 01572 653024.

Anglian Bird Watching Centre, Egleton.

Sunday 4 May, 11am to 5pm EVENT: Plant Fayre The Fayre is held around the lovely ancient Church of St Kyneburgha (of Time Team fame) near Castor Village. An opportunity to buy annual and perennial plants at bargain prices with a ‘crèche’ for purchases. Refreshments will be available as well as retro china, craft and Tradecraft stalls, a Grand Draw and the Church will offer guided tours from 12 am onwards. Admission is free and proceeds to the church.

Sunday 4 and Monday 5 May, 11am to 5pm EVENT: Stamford Pottery Market A wide variety of work by local potters and ceramicists including domestic ware, sculpture, jewellery, ornaments, tiles and garden sculpture. Specialist techniques such as high fired stoneware and porcelain and low fired earthenware and raku will be showcased.

Stamford Arts Centre Admission is free Sunday 4 and Monday 5 May, 11am to 4pm (weather permitting) EVENT: Uffington Scarecrow Festival A traditional event featuring themed scarecrows as part of a trail around the village with prizes to be won. Visitors will also find classic cars, homemade refreshments, pets ponies, white elephants, stalls, books, crafts, face painting, car boot sale, maypole dancing, a flypast and much more.

Uffington Village £5 per car, £2.50 on foot. All proceeds to village charities.

Saturday 3 May, 7.30pm MUSICAL PERFORMANCE: Back to Broadway All the best loved musicals in one magical show. Back to Broadway returns packed with show stopping numbers showcased by some of the country’s finest performers. A spellbinding musical theatre spectacular.

Stamford Corn Exchange Theatre Tickets £17.50£15.50 Tel: 01780 766455

Thursday 8 May, 8pm THEATRE: The Trials of Oscar Wilde – ‘The truth is rarely pure and never simple.’

This exciting new production which dramatises the libel and criminal trials of Wilde in 1895 is based on the original court transcripts. Audiences will see the most flamboyant character of his age in the flesh and in his own words. The play charts Wilde’s dramatically quick downfall with wit, humanity and defiance. Stamford Theatre. Tickets £12//£10/£8.50 Tel: 01780 763203 www.stamfordartscentre.co.uk Thursday 8 May, 5.30pm to 8pm EVENT: VIP Gift List Evening Gift List experts will be available around the store to help customers with planning their wedding lists. Gift List experts, fashion workshops, chocolate tastings, a glass of fizz and much more.

John Lewis, Peterborough. Booking an appointment is recommended Tel: 0844 693 1752 Ext: 5880.

Friday 9 May, 7.30pm MUSIC: Café Manouche Formed by three brothers from Lincolnshire, the Café Manouche Quintet play Gypsy Jazz and Swing from the 1920s to the 1950s that will transport you back in time to a more elegant era.

Expect candle lit tables and dancing.

Stamford Arts Centre Tickets £12 Tel: 01780 763203 or www.stamfordartscentre.co.uk

STAMFORD LIVING MAY 2014

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D IA RY DAT E S Sunday 11 May EVENT: Stamford Garden Show This is a free, fun day designed to offer something to all the family. Whether you are a keen gardener, beginner or expert, the show will provide entertainment and an opportunity to stock up on plants and garden supplies for the 2014 season. The event is organised by the Rotary Club of St Martins and will feature plant stalls, children’s games, food stands, specialist growers, demonstrations and free support and advice from gardening experts.

Stamford Meadows Admission is free.

Wednesday 14 May, 7pm to 10pm EVENT: Ladies Pamper Evening Ladies are invited to a relaxing evening with the chance try the £5 mini taster treatments ranging from manicures, pedicures, reflexology, back, neck and shoulder massage, eyebrows and much more. All sessions are given by qualified, experienced Beauty Therapists from favourite salons and spas.

Tickets are £6 to include a complimentary glass of wine and goody bag from Clarins.

Tel: 01572 812893 or 01572 813061 Greetham Community Centre Saturday 17 May, 7pm CONCERT: This Happy Spirit A concert to mark the 150th Anniversary of the death of John Clare – one of England’s greatest poets. Performed by the Fairhaven Singers and directed by Ralph Woodward, the concert will include the World Premier of ‘ClareVoyance’ by Somtow Sucharitkul and a new arrangement of a folk song by Ralph Woodward. A Clare related Art Exhibition will also be held in St John’s Church with work by local artist, John Lincoln.

St. John’s Church, Cathedral Square, Peterborough.

Tickets £12.50/£10 from Peterborough Visitor Information Centre, Tel: 01733 452336.

Friday 23 May, 7.30pm TRIBUTE SHOW: Just Like That!

The Tommy Cooper Show Tommy Cooper is remembered as a true comic genius. His impeccable timing, memorable routines and love of slapstick made him an international name. This show to commemorate thirty years since his death shows rarely seen material from his early cabaret days and the very best of his gags and tricks.

Stamford Corn Exchange Theatre Tickets £10/£8 Tel: 01780 766455 Friday 23 May, drinks from 6pm, lecture ends 8.30pm EVENT: Elizabeth at Burghley Evening drinks in the Orangery Restaurant will be followed by a glittering presentation

by Lesley Smith, Curator of Tutbury Castle, in character as Queen Elizabeth at this special event. Held in the Great Hall, the lecture will transport guests back to the time of Drake, Raleigh and Shakespeare on England’s voyage

Saturday and Sunday 17 and 18 May, from 11am EVENT: Spring Vegetable Weekend If you love growing your own food then Barnsdale is the place to be this weekend. The team will be opening up all the productive areas that are normally off-limits to visitors and their expert growers will be available to advise you on your own veggie production and chat about their favourite subject. Don’t forget to visit the nursery to stock up on organic vegetable plants to get you started at home.

Barnsdale Gardens, Exton Garden admission prices apply - adult £7, concession £6, child £3, family (up to 5) £19.

into the Renaissance.

Renowned Elizabethan historian Lesley Smith will talk about the profound effects on English and European politics of the Protestant queen who went on to rule England longer than any other monarch before her.

Tickets are £14 and include a glass of wine. Booking at www.burghley.co.uk Tel: 01780 752451.

Sunday 25 May and Monday 26 May EVENT: The Burghley Game and Country Fair A host of country attractions and entertainment. The Falconry Village includes a flying arena, indoor training arena, specialised trade stands, static displays and resident falconers. Equestrian demonstrations can be seen in the specialist arena as well as scurry racing and mounted games, which can be seen in the main arena.

Burghley Park For ticket prices and booking Tel: 01283 820548 www.burghley.co.uk Book early for Shakespeare this summer…

The much acclaimed Stamford Shakespeare Company will present three plays during the forthcoming season. Rarely performed in his lifetime, ‘As You Like It’ has become one of Shakespeare’s most accessible and enjoyable comedies. With a cross dressing heroine and gender games, this play has incredible comic appeal to modern audiences. Follow the adventures of the White Rabbit in ‘Alice in Wonderland & Through the Looking Glass’. Lewis Carroll’s fantasy world unfolds revealing all the usual suspects in a specially adapted stage version of the tales. Inspiring Cole Porter’s great musical ‘Kiss Me Kate’, ‘The Taming of the Shrew’ is the third play in the series this year. This version of the love story is full of fun and music and set in 1950s Italy.

Rutland Open Air Theatre, Tolethorpe Hall Tickets from £13with evening and matinee performances during June, July and August.

Further information at www.stamfordshakespeare.co.uk

STAMFORD LIVING MAY 2014

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ACCOUNTANTS

Expert advice, local knowledge Contact Tom Hindmarch:

tom.hindmarch@duntop.co.uk

01780 750888

14 All Saint’s Street, Stamford, Lincolnshire PE9 2PA

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CARPENTRY

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Call Michelle for a free initial consultation on 01780 751115 Email: mfeasey@feaseyaccounts.co.uk

COMPUTER SERVICES Why does the computer always play up in the evenings when the repair shops are shut?

Help available until 9pm including weekends.

Computer repair and support for home and business A complete service for all your computing needs

Bill & Sue Crowe Tel: 01780 754043 Mob: 07766833076 www.bcit.co.uk Email: bill@bcit.co.uk

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SPECIALISTS IN THE SUPPLY AND FITTING OF PREFABRICATED CHIMNEY SYSTEMS AND LOG BURNING STOVES www.stamfordmultifuelstoves.co.uk HETAS REGISTERED

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Expert Installation by qualified tradesman

Jason Musgrove

WEB DESIGN

Traditional Slater & Builder

OVEN CLEANING

07952 687988 Tel/Fax 01780 444019 jasonmusgrove@btinternet.com

Do you want the fairies to clean your oven?

Or would you rather do it yourself?

Slate Cottage, 65 Main Road, Collyweston, Stamford, Lincs. PE9 3PQ

KITCHEN FITTER

Design - Supply - Install

(book online)

www.ovenfairy.co.uk (book online)

Treating ovens today, tonight and tomorrow

PET GROOMING

Rutland Self Store Secure container storage between Stamford & Oakham

Puppy Grooms Luxury Spa Bath FREE Nail Clipping FREE Puppy Introductions - Collection Service Available Puppy Introductions • Luxury Spa Bath • FREE Nail Clipping Puppy GroomsFREE Bath and Tidy Up Collection Service Available • Full Styling Stripping Bath & Tidy Up • Hand Hand Stripping For appointments or enquiries please call 07825 046147 or email stamforddoggrooming@gmail.com

Dave Wigginton Kitchen Fitter 07739 098982 fusioninstallations@yahoo.co.uk

SELF STORE

Call 07825 046147 or Full Styling www.stamforddoggrooming.co.uk email stamforddoggrooming@gmail.com www.stamforddoggrooming.co.uk

Short or long term contract • 24 hour access • • Locked compound • • Size 20ft x 8ft •

SECURITY

PLASTERING I.T. S. Plastering

Contractor MASONRY

• Domestic • Quality Work • Commercial • Free Estimates

MASONRY WORKSHOP AND RESTORATION

For all types of Plastering, Drylining, Screeding, Damproofing & Tanking

COMPETITIVE PRICES

WWW.ITSPLASTERING.CO.UK

FREE CONSULTATION AND QUOTES

Ian T. Smale 01733 211790 - 07795 323133

STONE

Contact : 07828 210488 or 07957 516459 Email : joe@wrightandnelson.com Website : wrightandnelson.com

MOBILE BICYCLE REPAIRS

GTS MOBILE BICYCLE REPAIRS Repair and servicing of all kinds of bikes at home or work • Friendly and reliable • Competitively priced • Quick and convenient

PLUMBING • • • •

Plumbing • Gas Heating Bathrooms Worcester Bosch Accredited Installer.

WINDOW & DOOR REPAIR

01780 460465 www.rutlandselfstore.co.uk

M OGLESBY INSTALLATIONS

Fusion Installations

Ovens, Ranges, Agas, Hobs, Extractors, Microwaves, Start from £39 Fridges, FreezersPrices & BBQ’s • Prices start from £42 T: 01572 767678 M: 07785 987112 t. 01572W: 767678 - m. 07785 987112 www.ovenfairy.co.uk Ovens, Ranges, Agas, Hobs, Extractors, Microwaves, Fridges, Freezers & BBQs

REPAIR - DON’T REPLACE… Full uPVC repair & replacement service including MISTED UNITS • LOCKS • HINGES • HANDLES Have you just moved house?

Do you need your locks replacing?

Are you a landlord? Repairing could save you £££££’S.

QUALITY UPVC WINDOWS & DOORS T: 01733 860823 M: 07970735571 E: moglesbyinstallations@googlemail.com

“A Safe Place to Talk”

Free, confidential & unbiased advice for those facing an unplanned pregnancy.

Support for those who have post-abortion, post-miscarriage or baby-loss concerns.

We also offer: Free Pregnancy Testing, Free Chlamydia Testing & Sexual Health Information.

• • • • •

Tel: 01780 765853/ 07913052159 office@alternativesstamford.co.uk www.alternativesstamford.co.uk facebook.com/alternativesstamford @altstamford

or drop in any Mon or Thur 9-5 Ryhall Road, Stamford PE9 1YA. (located within the Hospital Site behind Sheep Market Surgery)

Registered charity 1129379

T: 01780 482039

www.plumbingstamford.co.uk

Call Greg on 07849 810130 or 01780 762936 Email greg.siggs@sky.com

PSYCHOTHERAPY MOT TEST CENTRE BARNACK TEST CENTRE Unit 5, Station Road Business Park Barnack, Stamford PE9 3DW 01780 749271 Open Monday - Saturday

To place an advert in next month’s magazine please call Claudia on 01780 480409

Independent Local class 4 MOT station, now running in its 7th year Friendly, family run business with 25 years experience CALL MARK OR POLLY TO BOOK AN APPOINTMENT

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STA M FOR D PE OPLE

You; Living & Giving The Entrepreneurs Tale Words & Pictures by Harjit Gammon

P

eople are intriguing, so what better excuse for a bit of snooping than to focus on someone with a shop called You. You in general usage means anyone and everyone. So, who are the ‘anyones’ at You? The indispensable duo that effectively run the shop day to day and, are the ‘face’ of You are Jo Parker and Sue Bryan. The pair have been with owner Liz Stevenson through thick and thin almost from the beginning. “The human factor is so important”, she says. “That’s what people take away with them. If you don’t have a good experience you don’t go back. You can’t teach approachability and friendliness or the confidence to interact and show interest in the trivialities of life”. She is full of praise for Jo and Sue and their genuine kindness and ability to put customers at ease.

Jo Parker Jo has been with You for nearly 13 years. Jo has a background in sales with River Island and John Lewis. Mother to an 8 year old girl, she is a “local girl, born and bred”.

Sue Bryan Another long timer, Sue also has a retailing background and a particular knack with customers.

In stark contrast to the ‘front of house’ where environment is king, the business of maximising profit and minimising loss is an operation undertaken from a poky room up an unimaginably steep, narrow staircase in the ancient building on the corner of St Mary’s Place. Liz Stevenson is an old school commercial operator, adept at ducking and diving and unafraid to ride a trend and then equally quickly ditch it. Having survived two recessions, Liz is highly adaptable and has had more shop incarnations in Stamford than probably anyone.

Liz Stevenson; Owner You Those of you with long memories may recall that she and then husband Les opened their first shop in Silver Lane on the site of the current Stamford Sweet Shop. A move to Stamford Walk saw the opening of Nth degree, a gadget shop, and Cosmetic Kitchen in the vicinity of what has gone onto become prime You heartland. There followed Baby You and Ruby Loves and more recently You & Beyond, now the sole preserve of her son Ben. She recalls the early days of shop keeping and assembling flat pack furniture all night to effect a quick overnight change around with fondness and points out that today’s environment is even more all important. The human encounter, coupled with the physical experience of being in a bricks and mortar shop, are it seems critical factors, combined with the all important product portfolio in competing with online shopping. Liz’s long experience and indefatigable energy are the drivers in ensuring the latter is correctly identified and sourced. A self-confessed lifelong organiser and marshaller of ideas, she is now at a stage where can enjoy the creative and personal aspects of the business.

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Sue Bryan

Jo Parker

Liz Stevenson

STAMFORD LIVING MAY 2014

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wmlet.com

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letting your

specialist

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Little Bytham £850 pcm

Uffington £2220 pcm

Stone built home. Large breakfast kitchen Aga, lounge with stone fireplace and wood burner, four double bedrooms.Parking & double garage.

Exceptional detached family home set in its own grounds. Finished to a high standard with spacious rooms, ample parking, double garage.

Thornaugh £895 pcm

Stamford £695 pcm

Grade II listed stone cottage, living/dining room, kitchen, two beds and bathroom, well stocked garden, outbuildings.

Lovely town house close to the river and within walking distance of the town centre. Three, bedrooms, single garage. South facing patio

Oakham £575 pcm

Stamford £900pcm

Recently built red brick cottage. Contemporary open plan layout with period detailing. Small enclosed rear yard and on street parking.

Deceptively spacious three bed property, close to the town centre. A single garage and a lovely enclosed courtyard garden with side access.

Stamford £1200 pcm

Stamford £695 pcm

Period town house opposite The George Hotel with easy access to this historic market town.

The accommodation is situated over 3 floors.

Established modern three bedroom semi in a popular residential area. Gravelled driveway, garage and an enclosed & private rear garden.

Stamford 01780 765 100 www.wmlet.com 14/04/2014 17:06