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From the Editor s,
Spooky Greetings Reader
ying Hockey, stuff for me was obvs pla a busy month! The good faves; Baby my Well, wasn’t September of e som h n a plethora of events wit the and s ion sess PT the ly friends Netball & my Carr with our love Parties, team socials, Jim ay thd Bir h oming 40t s, upc the wer Sho few! But, fitting with we never see, to name a to my ing pen hap who live so close and yet gs some not nice thin e gory bits as well and this is but ns, season there were som dow also are ere there are ups there Wh . ers mb me ily fam friends and de. where character is ma barely heating on? I mean, it’s up, who has turned the but I it in s ow Anyways, come on, fess ut 16 snuggly thr m in our house has abo k thin I t. osta rm affordable and every roo the the degrees on once it drops below 19 on the jog or it, must admit, I do struggle r bea can I if see come on at 18 though and r!! I’ve got to I might have to set it to rm again – it’d be cheape wa feel I il unt s ow thr rt days and sho spot whilst wearing 16 it’s the prospect of the for Autumn yet, I think ut it, and abo ic say, I’m not quite ready talg nos te cosy and there is something qui the whole in e tak little sunlight, but equally par not do we to note, start of it for me. Point oky themed Halloween signifies the y the reduced priced spo enjo do I but , een low n I should!! tha re Americanisation of Hal day after, far mo ilable in the shops the s and reds! wn sweets and chocolates ava bro and of orange love the autumnal colours And besides, who doesn’t #winkyface! If you know, you know! fire and a hot a good book, a roaring for sitting down with son sea this love r of Reading, Yea also I ntly the National know that 2026 is appare iration for insp chocolate to hand. Did you our see and I hope you is National Book Month m too, we the like add in to that October you e hop st! We obvs with a creepy twi – ers cov nt fro ’s as well nth lies this mo iously get the Negative Nel 90% of the time – we obv k bac feed ly love h suc get m!! but we don’t listen to the cks will living so close to a Starbu Spiced Latte – Oooooh, n the tur to off Right, time for a Pumpkin I’m e!! her wasted it, Halloween pun….I’m be the death of me!!! Get it. r notch so I can pay for thermostat down anothe edition!!! #mindblown – that’ll be the November See you next month team Emily x
for advertisers & contributors: Upcoming submission deadline ‘26 | DEC ‘26 EDITION - 6TH NOV NOV ‘26 EDITION - 8TH OCT ‘26
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omissions Magazines Limited for claims, errors or No responsibility is accepted by Voice expressed by contributor or other 6,600 homes in Derbyshire. Disclaimer: to views ted for sible distribu and respon Ltd not are CPUK we by and Printed faith issue. All advertisers are accepted in good ered in England & Wales No: 10550557 made in advertisements appearing in this t the prior consent of the publisher. Regist of this magazine is not permitted withou sources. Reproduction of the contents
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Contact or visit us at: Premier Community Mobility Shop King’s Mill Hospital, Mansfield Road, Sutton-In-Ashfield, NG17 4JL
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Alfreton & District Heritage Trust GHOSTLY GOINGS ON!
Artist impression of Outseats Terrace & Outseats Terrace Farm in the late 19th centyry
The White Horse man of Outseats
With Halloween coming up what better than a Ghost
story? Outseats Terrace and the adjoining Outseats Terrac e Farm stood mid-way between Alfreton and Somercotes on the main turnpike road to Nottin gham. The farmhouse was known as “The Old Haunted House” and was the subject of an article by W R Elliott in 1878 which appeared in several newspapers both local and national. Truth or fiction? Read on. About 50 or 60 years ago, there stood on the Nottingham Road a genteel and commodious house. It might have been termed half farm and half gentleman’s house, with a grassy and well-trimmed lawn in front, a small wood or nursery on the east side, and a farmyard with outbuildings conveniently situated. A stranger passing by night would pronounce it a picture of homely content, the abode of some well-to-do family, as indeed it was. About 1800, the last resident died there, and it was reported haunted by unearthly noises and mysterious figures in the night. One figure who was distinctly stated to have been repeatedly seen was that of an old gentleman on a white horse. At midnight, he would ride silently back and forth before the house. Many good people solemnly averred that they had both seen and heard the old gentleman in his midnight adventures. Many other strange tales about the house circulated in the neighbourhood for many years, and even into the 1950s, there were tales of shadowy hooded figures gliding across the landing, of the sound of chains dragging or rattling through the house, and of a candle that blew out at the same point on the staircase despite there being no draught! The man on the white horse was still being spoken of in the 1950s, with one resident insisting she had seen him ride across Nottingham Road and directly through the house!
6
What do we know of Outseats Terrace and Outseats Terrace Farm? Outseats Terrace was built sometime prior to 1868, the farm and land having been bought by an un-named Alfreton gentleman. We know Mr Thomas Jacques farmed there for some period before the 1st of February 1869, when his entire farming stock was auctioned by Mr C Shelton of Greenwich, Alfreton. At some point the tenancy passed to Mr Samuel Marshall who, on the 4th of March 1886, also sold off his entire farming stock, the auctioneers being Messrs F & J Webster of Alfreton. On the 20th of December 1889, the Ripley & Heanor News and Ilkeston Division Free Press advertised the farm for sale by private contract. Occupied by a Mr Wilson the farm comprised of dwelling house, barn, cowshed, stables and piggery along with over 19 acres of grassland. Also offered were six dwelling houses known as Outseats Terrace with gardens in front, at a nett rental of £23.8s.0d. The occupiers being Messrs Cockayne, Bakewell and others. The premises were described as situated a convenient distance of the rapidly rising town of Alfreton and having a splendid frontage of about 300 yards to the turnpike.
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We are an independent family owned and run funeral business, here to help local families arrange unique and personal funerals for loved ones. We are a team of friendly and caring funeral professionals. We’re all local people ourselves, and are here to support and guide you through this difficult time. Whether you wish to say goodbye with a traditional funeral, a simple farewell or arrange something a bit different, we are here to help you every step of the way.
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ALFRETON & DISTRICT FUNERALPROFESSIONAL SERVICES
01773 834 973
Davis
A Year of Compassion and Care
& Sons
It’s hard to believe that it has already been a year since Claire Clarke joined the team at GB Davis & Sons Ltd – Alfreton & District Funeral Services. In that time, Claire has become a muchvalued member of the team, bringing with her a wealth of knowledge, experience and, perhaps most importantly, a genuine compassion for the families she supports. Based at the Alfreton office, Claire is a Funeral Director, helping families through what can be one of the most difficult and emotional times in their lives. Her role requires professionalism and efficiency, but it is her warmth, empathy and understanding that can make such a difference to the families she cares for. That was beautifully reflected in a recent review from a family Claire supported following the loss of their father. They described her as “extremely kind, empathetic, loving, loyal and beyond efficient”, adding that she made an incredibly heartbreaking situation more bearable simply by being there and being herself.
It is this combination of experience and genuine compassion that makes Claire such an important part of the GB Davis & Sons team. At GB Davis & Sons, caring for people is at the heart of everything they do. With a long-standing reputation within the local community, the team understands that every family is different and that every funeral should be handled with dignity, respect and care. Having Claire as part of the team strengthens that commitment to providing a personal and supportive service when families need it most. Claire’s first year with the company has been a chance to become part of a close-knit team and to continue doing what she does best – supporting families, listening to what matters to them and making sure every detail is taken care of. Within this year her long standing colleague Ray Bonsall was back by her side, ensuring that the community had their trusted partnership to rely on in their time of need. As Claire celebrates her first year with GB Davis & Sons, the team are delighted to have her as part of the GB Davis family and look forward to the years ahead.
ALFRETON & DISTRICT FUNERAL SERVICES Davis
& Sons
BRITI H IN TITUTE OF
EMBALMER
WE OFFER A RANGE OF GOLDEN CHARTER PRE PAID FUNERAL PLANS
MEET THE TEAM
We provide caring and sympathetic funeral services throughout Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire and beyond.
As part of GB Davis & Sons, a long-established firm led by brothers John and Mark Davis, our experienced and compassionate team arrange and conduct funerals across the UK. We are proud to serve our community with dignity, professionalism and respect.
John Davis
Senior Funeral Director
Mark Davis
Senior Funeral Director
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Claire Clarke
Funeral Director: Alfreton
Elliot Davis
Funeral Director: South Normanton
01773 834 973 | 73 Mansfield Road, Alfreton, DE55 7JN 24 HOUR TELEPHONE SERVICE To advertise please call 01773 549 035 13
PROFESSIONAL
and Guess the words rd! ! o w s s o r c Fill in the
Pitcherwits
®
Pitcherwits® are crossword puzzles where some of the clues are in pictures. Sound easy? It’s not called “Pit-your-wits” for nothing! The mixture of cryptic and picture clues, combined with Professor Rebus’ unique sense of humour, will keep you entertained for hours.
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Across 5 Jump that’s a bit riskily taken! (3) 7 Flypast said to be worse than a cold (3) 10 Fine linen made from river block, say? (7) 14 Smorgasbord, straight out of the cooker (3) 15 Furrow has a bad start for champagne (3) Down 2 Sensed in a woolly sort of way? (4) 3 Lazy tickover? (4) 9 There, somewhere below, is a revolting person (5) 12 Egg unmoved by endless changes (4) 13 Chicken nuggets: fashionable up front! (4)
!# !%
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Across 1 Do this, being unpopular with lenders if so minded (4,7)
Down 1 How dieter misplaces a kilogram? (5,6)
8
Later on it could be imaginary (3,4)
4
Rest easy in marquee in continental area (6,5)
11 Potter in line up for a swim, say? (4,3)
6
Picks an awful lot of fungus you shouldn’t drink with (3,4)
16 Teach, in mime, how to use teleporter through the ages (4,7)
7
Shine now and then in a fickle way, right? (7)
ANSWERS FOR LAST MONTHS PITCHERWITS Across: 1 Hexameters, 6 Aura, 7 Via, 8 Navy, 9 Weakness, 11 Turned on, 14 Ever, 15 Ago, 16 Rapt, 17 At the least. Down: 1 Horned toad, 2 Away win, 3 Track, 4 Revue, 5 Cause a riot, 10 Nanette, 12 Roost, 13 Earth.
These puzzles are devised by the brilliant Professor Rebus. Go to www.pitcherwits.co.uk for more FREE puzzles and booksales.
14
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2nd Tuesday of each month 9am – 1pm | South Normanton Market Place
3rd Tuesday of each month 9am - 12pm | Blackwell Community Centre
2nd Thursday of each month 9.30am - 12pm | Bolsover Market
3rd Thursday of each month 9am – 1pm | Alfreton Severn Square Car Park (Outside Poundstretcher)
2nd Friday of each month 9am – 1pm | Ripley Market Place
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USE HO
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SLIMMING WORLD
NAME Carrot and Swede-topped Veggie Cottage Pie SERVES: 4
SWIPS: FREE
READY IN: 1 hour 30 minutes Pure comfort in every bite! Packed with hearty vegetables and topped with a deliciously golden carrot and swede mash.
Method: 1.
Ingredients: 1 cal cooking spray 1 onion, finely chopped 3 large celery sticks, finely sliced 250g button mushrooms, halved or quartered 2 garlic cloves, crushed 1 tbsp tomato purée 300g frozen plain soya/vegetable protein mince, defrosted 400g can chopped tomatoes
600ml hot vegetable stock made with 1 low-salt stock cube 2 tsp Marmite, or other yeast extract 2-3 sprigs of fresh thyme 2 small swedes (roughly 750g in total), peeled and roughly chopped
2.
400g carrots, roughly chopped 2 tbsp fat-free natural Greek yogurt Fresh flat-leaf parsley, chopped, to serve
3.
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Spray a large, deep, non-stick frying pan with 1 cal cooking spray and put it over a medium heat. Add the onion, celery and mushrooms and fry for 10 minutes, stirring frequently, until starting to soften. Add the garlic with a splash of water and cook for 2-3 minutes until fragrant. Add the tomato purée and mince and mix everything together. Stir in the tomatoes, stock and Marmite. Season with pepper and add the thyme, then bring to a simmer and cook for 20 minutes until the veg are tender. At the same time, preheat your oven to 220°C/fan 200°C/gas 7.
Boil the swede for 5 minutes, then add the carrots and boil everything for a further 15 minutes until very tender. Drain, season with pepper and add the yogurt. Mash until smooth. 4.
Spoon the pie filling into a 2-litre ovenproof dish. Top with the mash and rough up with a fork. Bake in the oven for 30-35 minutes until the sauce is bubbling and the topping is turning golden.
5.
Scatter the pie with the parsley and serve with your favourite Speed Free vegetables, discarding the thyme sprigs before eating.
19
FOOD & RETAIL
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Cruising: Fact or Fiction?
Cruising has changed enormously over the years, but some old ideas about cruising still linger. So, how much of what you hear is actually true? FICTION. “You'll be bored on a cruise.” Sea days can be some of the best days of a cruise. Depending on the ship, there could be live music, theatre, guest speakers, swimming pools, spa treatments and plenty more. Or you can simply find a quiet spot and watch the world go by.
FICTION. “Cruising is all about huge ships and thousands of passengers.” There are intimate river ships, smaller ocean vessels, expedition ships, and even yacht-style cruising, as well as the enormous floating resorts, we're all familiar with.
The trick is choosing a ship where the pace and atmosphere suit you.
Cruising can be as lively or as peaceful as you want it to be – if you choose the right type of ship.
FICTION. “You have to dress up every night.”
FACT. “A cruise is an easy way to experience several
Some cruise lines still embrace elegant evenings, while others are much more relaxed. There are cruises where dressing up is part of the fun, and others where smart casual is the order of the day.
Knowing what to expect before you choose your cruise can make all the difference to how comfortable you'll feel onboard. FICTION. “You have to get off the ship at every port.” You really don't! You can explore somewhere new, take an excursion, wander independently – or stay onboard and enjoy the ship while it's quieter.
destinations without constantly packing and unpacking.”
One of the things I love about cruising is unpacking once and waking up somewhere different the next day. You can experience several destinations without changing hotels or repacking your suitcase.
And perhaps that's the biggest misconception of all: that there's one type of cruise that suits everyone.
Sometimes the best choice is simply the one that suits how you want to spend your day.
There isn't – and that's exactly what makes cruising so interesting.
Mandy Oldknow T R AV E L C O U N S E L L O R
Scan the QR Code for my Website
01773 318540 mandy.oldknow@mytc.com travelcounsellors.com/mandy.oldknow
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A TRIP TO THE STARS AT SHERWOOD OBSERVATORY It had been far too long since the Voice team had enjoyed a little outing together. We’ve been so busy that finding the time hasn’t always been easy, but when we do venture out, we want it to be somewhere we can genuinely recommend to our readers. So, when we were invited to spend an afternoon at Sherwood Observatory, we jumped at the chance – and we’re very pleased to say that it was well worth the trip! Set in an area that benefits from darker skies, the observatory is home to an impressive planetarium built within a beautifully converted Victorian reservoir. The transformation really is something to see. Following a £6.8 million redevelopment, the centre reopened in November 2024 and the renovation has already received well-deserved recognition. From the moment we arrived, we were made to feel incredibly welcome. Susanna Holt, Marketing, and Centre Manager Tony Booth greeted us before we were treated to a special planetarium show by Planetarium Lead, Matt Nutter. We could quite happily have stayed there all afternoon – and perhaps a little longer! Matt brought the universe to life with fascinating explanations, plenty of opportunities to ask questions and some truly spectacular visual displays. And that’s what makes Sherwood Observatory such a lovely place to visit. Behind the friendly team is a dedicated group of volunteers who clearly have a real passion for astronomy and for sharing that enthusiasm with others.
autumn and winter, making the most of the longer, darker nights and the opportunities they bring for observing the skies. There’s also a new Discovery Hour, taking place once a month, giving visitors the chance to explore the building and exhibitions at their own pace – and perhaps enjoy a coffee and a snack from the café while they’re there! Make sure you book online in advance to avoid disappointment for Planetarium shows, Open Evenings and Discovery Hours. For more information and sherwood-observatory.org.uk.
to
see
what’s
coming
up,
visit
From the Voice team: We’ve visited plenty of places over the years, but there was something particularly special about spending an afternoon looking up at the stars. We’re incredibly lucky to have somewhere like Sherwood Observatory right on our doorstep – and if, like us, you’ve ever looked up at the night sky and wondered what’s out there, we’d definitely recommend paying them a visit.
There’s plenty more to discover too, including a fascinating exhibition, a lovely volunteer-run café and a shop. You don’t need to be an astronomy expert either. Whether you’re introducing a curious child to the wonders of space, looking for a new hobby, or simply fancy discovering something a little different, there really is something here for everyone.
Something Spooky This Way Comes! The October programme is now out, and it seems the universe is getting a suitably mysterious feel for autumn! There’s We Are Aliens, exploring the fascinating question of whether we really are alone in the universe, alongside DARK and Phantom of the Universe, which delve into the mysteries surrounding dark matter. There’s also Unveiling the Invisible Universe and Universe Through All the Senses, offering a fascinating look at the universe beyond what we can normally see, hear and experience. And as the nights draw in, there will also be monthly Open Evenings throughout
Sherwood Observatory, Coxmoor Road, Sutton in Ashfield, Nottinghamshire. NG17 5LF 01623 552276 sherwood-observatory.org.uk Registered Charity Number 1187777 22 Don’t forget to mention Voice Magazines when responding to the Ads
FOOD & RETAIL
Christ the King
Catholic Voluntary Academy
For Reception intake 2027 and Nursery
Open Day
Thursday 5th November From 1.30pm We look forward to meeting you at our Open Day. One-to-one tours can also be arranged. We welcome children of all faiths and no faith. Scan the QR code to visit our website
Christ the King Nursery At Christ the King Nursery, we believe the best learning happens through child-led play and exploration. We welcome children from the age of 3 onwards and there is an option to pay initially before funding comes in the term after your child turns 3. Contact us to arrange a tour, or come along to our Open Day, details above. Scan the QR code to visit our website
Firs Avenue, Alfreton, DE55 7EN
To advertise please call 01773 549 035
01773 832919
23
EVENTS
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COMMUNITY
CLAY CROSS SOCIAL CENTRE MARKET STREET, CLAY CROSS The ideal venue for your party or celebration event and is available to hire from just £12 per hour including the bar!
WE ARE NOW TAKING BOOKINGS FOR 2027! BOOK NOW TO AVOID DISAPPOINTMENT!
Find us on Facebook
For further information contact the Clay Cross Parish Council Office on:
01246 862 812 • www.claycross.gov.uk
HEALTH & BEAUTY
AMBER VALLEY RUGBY CLUB
THE SEASON IS UNDERWAY! What a fantastic start we’ve had to the 2026/27 season at Amber Valley RUFC! After a busy pre-season of hard work, fitness and preparation from our players, coaches and volunteers, September finally saw everyone back where they belong — on the rugby pitch! The men’s section kicked off their league campaign on 26 September, hosting Ilkeston 2s in their opening fixture of the season. With a busy schedule ahead, the team will be looking to build momentum, deliver strong performances and make the most of every opportunity. We’re looking forward to plenty of support for the men throughout the campaign. Our women’s section also made a great start, with their Warriors session on 19 September followed by their first game against Ashby Ladies the next day. It was fantastic to see
the team back in action, building momentum and laying the foundations for an exciting campaign ahead. Our juniors and minis returned to training from 6th September, bringing plenty of energy, enthusiasm and smiles to the club. It’s always brilliant to see our youngest players enjoying their rugby and developing their skills week by week. There’s plenty happening away from the pitch too. Our annual Bonfire Night takes place on 6th November, promising an evening of flames, fireworks, food and fun! Keep an eye on our socials for all the latest games, news and events. We’re always welcoming new players across all sections, whether you’re new to rugby, returning to the game or simply want to get involved.
One Club. One Family. One Valley.
����
Interested in giving rugby a try? call Stuart 07966 867 946 for the men, Gareth 07595 520 537 for the ladies and Paul 07790 403 043 for the Minis and Juniors. More than just a club, we are the #ValleyFamily. You can visit our website www.ambervalleyrfc.co.uk, Facebook & Instagram pages to contact us or follow what we do. You can find us at Lower Somercotes, Somercotes, Alfreton DE55 4NQ
To advertise please call 01773 549 035
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HEALTH & BEAUTY
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Your Local Pharmacy & Health Clinic
Medicine Stop your local NHS Pharmacy offering Free Prescription Delivery or collection Collect your prescription from our local store in the health centre Receive a text message to tell you when your prescription is ready Speak to our team about our Travel Clinics / Health Checks / Weight Loss Service / Vaccinations Speak to a pharmacist without leaving home Call Us
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Our pharmacists are always on hand to provide you with medication advice, available throughout the day 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday.
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Register today for free delivery of your medicines.
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HOME IMPROVEMENTS
A dogs Day out
This is a lovely walk, taking in a pretty stretch of the Cromford Canal before heading uphill to take in some lovely views and beautiful countryside. Unfortunately, since we originally did this walk, some of the paths have become inaccesible, so we had to divert along a country road for a reasonable stretch. Hopefully we can get out again soon to find a new route but in the meantime it is still well worth the diversion. Flake certainly thought so!
4.5 MILE CIRCULAR WALK FROM HIGH PEAK JUNCTION A moderate walk for you and your dog. This fairly undulating walk should take around 2 to 2½ hours to complete. There is a range of terrain, with some muddy and uneven sections, so make sure you wear appropriate footwear. Due to some inaccessible paths we had to divert the walk along a significant section of road, so take plenty of care. And as always, follow the Countryside Code.
START: High Peak Junction Car Park, Lea Road, Matlock, DE4 5AE Please be aware there is a charge to park at the High Peak Junction Car Park. At the time of going to print it was £3.50 for 3 hours and £7 for a full day. 1.
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Beginning in the car park, head to the back left corner and climb the steps and head left then follow the path round to the right to cross the bridge over the river. Follow the path round and up to cross a railway bridge and then a canal bridge. Then turn left following the High Peak Trail and with the canal on your left.
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Continue straight ahead until passing ‘The Wharf Shed’ on your left and then after a short distance turn left onto a footpath sign posted for ‘Ambergate’. Continue straight along a footpath with a canal on your left. Eventually pass over a railway bridge and then continue with the canal on your left for some distance until reaching a tunnel. Just prior to reaching the tunnel turn right onto a footpath sign posted for ‘Homestead Cottage A6’.
3.
Continue through some trees for some distance and then turn right to cross over a river bridge. Continue to pass through a tunnel underneath a railway line and then continue to follow a tarmac lane back to a main road.
4.
Taking care, cross directly over the main road and take a bridleway going right and uphill. Pass by the majority of houses, ignoring an earlier turn to the left. As you approach the final houses on your right, take a sharp left to head uphill into a wooded area.
5.
Continue for some distance and exit the woods, then the path bears to the right. Now follow the path with a dry stone wall on either side until reaching a road.
6.
Turn right and continue along the road for some distance. (We had to divert the walk here as the previous roiute used paths that are no longer accessible. So take care along the road as there isn’t much space for cars to pass.) Pass Birchwood Farm Caravan Park on your right and continue ahead. As you approach houses on either side of the road take a signposted Public Bridleway on your right (Intake Lane).
7.
Continue along the lane for some distance and then pass through a metal gate. Continue straight ahead for some distance and pass through a second metal gate. Continue straight ahead until reaching a T junction. Turn right and immediately pass through a metal gate. Continue for a short distance and then follow the path around to the left. Continue for some distance until reaching a finger board sign. Bear left and uphill following the sign for ‘High Peak Trail’.
8.
After a short distance ignore the path bearing left and steep uphill and bear slightly right passing by a wooden bench on your right. After a very short distance turn sharp right onto a trail sign posted for ‘High Peak Junction’. Continue for some distance going downhill until passing through a tunnel underneath a road.
9.
After a short distance pass a railway carriage on your right and buildings on your left. You have returned to High Peak Junction. Cross back over the canal bridge and the railway bridge to follow the path back to the car park.
This walk is for illustrative purposes only. Voice Magazines Ltd takes no responsibility for anyone who chooses to follow this route and encourages all walkers to obey all byelaws and signs and to respect the area they are walking in, ensuring they pick up all dog mess and obey the countryside code at all times.
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PET SERVICES
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01623 459891 HOME IMPROVEMENTS
Colemans Est 1982
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Colemans have been manufacturing bespoke kitchen and bedroom furniture for over 40 years. We are a family run business with a belief in great quality products and service at sensible prices. All our products are built specifically for you and your needs, we can manufacture in any colour and style your heart desires. With Colemans the possibilities are endless.
Visit our showroom 178 Victoria Road, Kirkby in Ashfield, Nottinghamshire, NG17 8AT Tel: 01623 751239 ǁ Web: colemanskitchensandbedrooms.co.uk *see in store for details
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D Cheshire Painting & Decorating
Paul M Longden Ltd Kitchen & Bathroom Installation Services
City and Guilds Qualified Tradesmen
30 years’ experience of Kitchen & Bathroom Design and Installation
All decorating work undertaken Free no obligation quotations
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Our qualified and friendly team can create a tailored solution for you. FREE home survey and quotation. Full design and installation service. VAT free for those with a long-term illness or disability. Tailored solutions for arthritis, mobility issues and chronic pain. ‘Bath out, shower in’ service in as little as two days. Walk-in baths, wetrooms, bidets and toilet lifters also available.
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32
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TURNER ELECTRICAL SERVICES All types of electrical work undertaken including rewires, extra lights and sockets, new builds, testing and inspection, landlord reports, CCTV and intruder alarms.
ALL WORK CARRIED OUT BY FULLY QUALIFIED ELECTRICIANS Contact Keith on
07831 601717 or 01773 836765
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MIKE’S MUSINGS
Am I the only one, or are others becoming increasingly fed up with American words, phrases and customs taking over our language/way of life? (Part 8 – the Mervyn from Alfreton selection)
Responses have slowed a little of late, but I reckon there might be enough on this topic for one more article next month. In the meantime, I’m indebted to Mervyn who gets a bit uptight about how Americans have created words for various features of cars/ elements of driving that are alien to us here in the UK. He has provided a number of examples including the following: Why, he asks, if he or she has an engine problem, the average American driver is unable to look ‘under the bonnet?’ They have to lift the hood. Then, if for example they’re taking a member of the family off to university for the first time, they may well help beforehand by packing all they need – Cup-a-Soups/Pot Noodles/packets of Smash (?) etc., plus a few clothes - in a trunk. Then, instead of loading this into the boot, they place the trunk in the trunk. On the way, they might need to refuel. No petrol for them - they fill up with gas when, particularly if it is a long journey, they may need to relieve themselves. No point in looking for a toilet in an American service station. They need the restroom. To cap it all, Mervyn reminds me that not only do Americans drive on the ‘wrong side of the road’ they also drive on the pavement. What on earth?? He finishes by acknowledging and accepting that, when out for a walk, Americans are not in any real
danger of being mowed down by a Cadillac or Chevy, as they’re encouraged to use the sidewalk. -------------------------------My sister has always been a great dog lover. When we were young, she was the one who looked after Jinx our mongrel pet, and she’s continued to have at least one dog in the household since she got married and had a family. She had some bad fortune though last week with her beautiful pedigree Dalmatian. She took Buster for a proper doggy wash and grooming session at Kath’s K9 Kuts in Ripley and was livid when she returned to collect the dog. He was absolutely spotless! and I read recently that a Welsh based pet food manufacturer has been experiencing cash flow problems. In fact, it got so bad last week that they’ve now decided to call in the Retrievers. finally My brother-in-law has been mending watches for family and friends for years. As a result, his reputation grew to the point that he took a chance and opened a small shop in Pinxton. The business was ticking over nicely for a while until Covid 19 struck, and now, unfortunately, he’s had to wind it up.
Mike is always glad to hear from you at:
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mike.musings@outlook.com
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• INSTALLATION • SERVICE • REPAIRS
01773 302 230
www.stone-security.co.uk
Alarm & CCTV Specialists • Full alarm system service £66 with 12 months call-out cover • Brand new alarm systems fitted • CCTV systems fitted • Older systems upgraded, faults fixed • Any existing system adopted regardless who fitted it
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Sewing Machines My mum had a treadle sewing machine, she used it to make our curtains. I can still picture her pedalling, one foot in front of the other, the machine clattering as fabric passed furiously through her hands. Before she married, she had worked as a factory machinist, so she knew how to sew at speed. It was a heavy old beast: cast iron, solid as anything, and hardly ever troublesome. A drop of oil now and then was all it asked, and it felt as though it could stitch its way up one side of the street and down the other. I loved the little wooden drawer underneath, with its half-used bobbins, spare needles, and unmistakable scent of machine oil. It was also very satisfying the way it folded away after use. My mother-in-law had a Singer too, first worked by hand crank and later converted to electric with a foot pedal.
Singer Hand Crank Singer Treadle
She was a wonderfully skilled tailor and seamstress, though her husband would not let her run a business or take any form of payment. In our sessions, we meet many people with memories of sewing machines and the work done on them. One woman told us about her grandmother, who ran a market business mending stockings - another small story stitched into everyday life.
Janet and Paul Barrass are All Around the Shire. Find us on or email: oldfield512@btinternet.com for more information.
Janet
VISIT OUR SHOW
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Rewires CCTV Intruder Alarms Extra Sockets Extra Lighting Electric Vehicle Charging Points All Domestic, Commercial & Industrial electrical work undertaken • Landlord Reports • Electrical Safety Certificates
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T: 01773 301922 M: 07870 642169
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CONSIDERING CHANGING YOUR BATHROOM?
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Tel: 01773 318 008 • Email: info@metrobathrooms.co.uk Unit 1, Windmillplease Business Park (off Greenhill Lane), Mill Lane, Riddings, DE55 4DB (opposite Windlea Road) To advertise call 01773 549 035 37
HOME IMPROVEMENTS
Reputable & Reliable Family Run Business Est 1986 WE BEAT ANY LIKELIKE FOR FOR LIKE QUALITY GARAGE DOOR QUOTE WEWILL WILL BEAT ANY LIKE QUALITY GARAGE DOOR QUOTE ®
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SUDOKU #75!
Fill in all the numbers This is a sudoku 1 square grid 81 cells 9 3x3 blocks 1 simple rule: Use all the numbers 1-9, with no duplicates allowed, in any row, column, or block.
These puzzles are devised by the brilliant Professor Rebus. For more of his puzzles visit www.pitcherwits.co.uk
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BOILER & CENTRAL HEATING PLANS TO SUIT ALL BUDGETS FLAMECARE WILL DONATE YOUR FIRST MONTH’S SUBSCRIPTION TO SUPPORT ASHGATE HOSPICE Also get a FREE Initial Service Worth £85 – when you choose a comprehensive cover plan
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Charity number: 700636
OUR PROMISE TO YOU FlameCare endeavour to provide first-class customer service, advice, workmanship and value for money to all our past, present and prospective customers.
4.9 With gas fire Central Heating, Plumbing & Drains & Gas Fire. Includes Annual Service
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Standard Boiler & Controls Cover, Includes Annual Service
British Gas (per month**)
(Homecare Complete)
£45.92†† (Homecare Basic)
£29.70†† (Homecare Classic)
£21.07††
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£29.95
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APPLYING IS EASY Call freephone† 0800 08 555 18 www.flamecare.co.uk Flamecare (Homeplan) Ltd, 65-67 Chatsworth Road, Chesterfield S40 2AL
SCAN ME
† Calls to our 0800 0855 518 number are free from all UK-based landlines & mobiles. *Prices may vary depending on the current age and make of boiler, this offer applies to new customers only. **Prices shown are inclusive of VAT. † † Prices correct as of 01-01-21. Third-party prices may vary. Prices correct as of 30-08-24. Third-party prices may vary. British Gas prices are based on a Baxi Boiler less than 5 years old. FlameCare prices are based on all boiler brands less than 5 years old.
To advertise please call 01773 549 035
Full Parts & Labour Guarantee. Free initial service (Worth £85). No minimum contract. Price guarantee for first 12-months. No excess. Unlimited call-outs. Accidental damage cover. Additional discount for landlords with 2 or more properties.
Reg No. 3368710
39
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National Year of Reading 2026: Go All In! Remember picking up a book intending to read for ten minutes and suddenly discovering you’ve completely lost track of time, only to be dragged out of your book trance by the realisation that you’re absolutely starving? That’s the magic of reading – and in 2026, the National Year of Reading is encouraging us to rediscover it. The campaign, led by the National Literacy Trust in collaboration with the Department for Education, has a wonderfully simple message: “Go All In.” Rather than telling us what we should be reading, it encourages us to start with what we already love. And that makes perfect sense. Love football? There’s a whole world of biographies, sporting stories and match-day history waiting for you. Mad about cooking? Find a recipe book and work your way through it. Fascinated by history, gardening, travel, music, cars, crime or celebrity? There will be a book, magazine or article with your name on it. You don’t even have to be a “book person”. Reading has changed enormously over the years, and there are more ways to do it than ever. You can curl up with a paperback, download an e-book, listen to an audiobook while walking the dog or get your reading fix from a magazine, comic, graphic novel or online article. And let’s be honest, there are few things better than finding that book – the one you can’t put down. The one you think about while you’re doing the washing up. The one where you tell everyone, “Don’t talk to me, I’m reading!”
Of course, not every book is going to be a winner. Sometimes you can get halfway through and wonder why you’re persevering. If it isn’t grabbing you, put it down and try another one! There are far too many brilliant books out there to waste time struggling through one you don’t enjoy. Reading can also be wonderfully simple. A chapter before bed, a few pages with your morning coffee, an audiobook in the car or a magazine while you’re waiting for the kettle to boil. It doesn’t have to involve finding hours of spare time – sometimes just a few minutes is enough to escape into another world. And what better month to embrace it than October? Alongside the National Year of Reading, October is National Book Month, giving us another reason to celebrate the written word and perhaps discover something new. Why not revisit a favourite from your childhood? Swap books with a friend. Pick something completely outside your usual genre. Ask someone what they’ve enjoyed reading recently. Or, if you haven’t been in a library for years, pop through the doors and see what catches your eye. Because reading isn’t about how many books you finish, how quickly you read or whether you’ve read all the “classics”. It’s about finding something that makes you want to turn the page. So, this October, Go All In on something you love. Pick up a book, open a magazine, press play on an audiobook and see where it takes you. You never know – your next favourite story could be just one page away.
40
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Your Roof - Our Expertise Sales . Spares . Repairs . Servicing
uum Is Your Vac t Working? Cleaner No
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SEMI-RETIRED BUILDER
Family run Gas Safe registered domestic Heating and Gas company with 20+ years experience.
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42
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07917 734 901
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Autumn Package Deal
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Ian Wilson
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Rewires, Extra Sockets, Lights, Fault Finding, Inspection & Testing, Etc. • Consumer Unit Upgrades • Landlord Reports Call Ian for a FREE no obligation quote on
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NATURE NOTES FROM THE PEAK DISTRICT
SEASONAL CHANGES SIGNAL A NEW INFLUX TO WILDER GARDENS
The change from a long, hot, dry summer to a cold, wet August can come as something of shock, especially to smaller birds which suddenly need to bolster their energy intake. Accordingly, in recent weeks there has been an influx of, for example, titmice and various finches, particularly flocks of Greenfinches and Goldfinches, with the latter in abundance. A drop in temperature immediately triggered flocks of twenty to thirty Blue Tits, Great Tits, and Coal Tits, boosted every so often by ten to fifteen Long-tailed Tits and an occasional Nuthatch. About the same time, the locallyresident House Sparrows seem to be doing well and joining the feeding frenzy. Of course, many of these birds also take to local hedgerows, lane-sides, and fields where the late-summer pickings are quite easy and accessible. The big boost in numbers in both gardens and in the wider countryside is in a large part down to the post-breeding fledging of youngsters leading to excited mixed flocks of adults and juveniles. I have also noticed this year that some of the young Greenfinches and Goldfinches in particular, have become rather bold to the point of being almost tame. Along with the immature titmice, the finches especially, seem totally unbothered when I go out to top up the feeders. I have even had birds land on a feeders at the same time as I am holding it and filling it with food. This is quite extraordinary and something I have never known before, which the exception perhaps of one of my bolder Robins. In terms of visitors to the garden, the Wood Pigeons have reduced somewhat but numbers have been
supplemented by regular visitations of Collared Doves (altogether prettier and less hassle in terms of pigeonpoop), and of the delicate-eyed Stock Doves. I have also noticed an increase in visits by urban Feral Pigeons, something we don’t often see here. Other exotic ‘feral’ species include the increasingly ubiquitous Canada Geese, introduced to ornament grand estates in the 1600s and 1700s, and now breeding widely alongside now feral populations of native Grey Lag Geese. Over the last few weeks, I have seen and heard flocks of fifteen to twenty Canada Geese flying in v-formation low over the garden. Their distinctive and very loud call is described as a repeated ‘wagh-onk’ and this adds to their impact as they pass at roof-top height. No doubt as autumn progresses, we will be seeing and hearing large flocks of Pink-footed Geese heading north-west to south-east on their long migration from the tundra landscapes where they breed. As the long, drawn out skeins of Pink-feet pass overhead, their presence is characterised by high-pitched calls of ‘unk-unk’ and ‘wink-wink-wink’. These birds have increased greatly in numbers and whereas they used to be heading down to the Lincolnshire Wash and East Anglian marshes, it seems that many pitch down closer to the Peaks on farmland and wetlands around the Trent Valley and the Humberhead Levels of South Yorkshire and North Lincolnshire. As the seasons change and the weather drives many species southwards, others will move in from northerly climates to take their place. Nature is constantly in flux as species come and go, and we see this in the wildlife garden, in the countryside beyond. And all part of a living tapestry.
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Professor Ian D. Rotherham, researcher, writer, broadcaster on wildlife and environmental issues is contactable on ianonthewildside@ukeconet.org. Follow his website www.ukeconet.org, blog www.ianswalkonthewildside.wordpress.com/ & Twitter Don’t forget to mention Voice Magazines when responding to the Ads @IanThewildside Bluesky @ianthewildside.bsky.social
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GARDEN SERVICES So much changes in the garden in autumn. The soil’s still warm, so you can lift and divide perennials, giving them a good chance to settle in. You can plant a few later flowerers such as Japanese anemones and winter pansies to take you through into winter. And of course, get your spring bulbs in. Then there’s the tidying up, adding to the compost heap or making leaf mould for next year. October is the big bulb planting month. Daffs, crocuses, alliums, fritillaries, grape hyacinths, dwarf iris, anemones. Garden centres are full of them. There’s been a growing trend to plant smaller bulbs in lawns – given that you’re not going to be mowing until well into spring – and they do look lovely poking through the green. You could plant them singly – use a bulb planter to lift and replace turf and soil chunks - or with very small bulbs even a stick pushed about four inches deep would create enough space to drop a bulb and push a bit of soil on top. Or you could lift a patch of turf, dig down a few inches, plop in a few crocus or dwarf iris bulbs and replace the turf. The main rule is to plant bulbs at a depth of least two to three times their size. Cut back perennials to within a couple of inches of their base, unless - as with honesty or others with attractive seed heads - you leave them till spring to give the garden a bit of winter shape. If you have perennials which are more tender - cosmos or coleus or penstemon - it’s worth leaving this year’s stems till spring to give the crown a bit of protection over the winter. And if there’s any new growth on any of your perennials again leave until spring. If you are cutting off seed heads, don’t put them on your compost pile – you might have more than compost next spring – without any way of identifying what you’ve inadvertently planted. Lift tubers of begonias, dahlias and cannas once the first frost has nipped them. Cut the stems off about two inches above the base, lift and remove soil by hand and store them upside-down in a cool place for a couple of weeks. Then put them in boxes filled with spent compost, dry sand or soil – or a combination of all three with the old stalks exposed at the top and keep in a frost-free space until spring.
S ENER D R A G NDAR CALE
TOP Leave tulip planting till November or TIP even December. They like a cold bed.
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