Voice Magazines - Selston, Pinxton, Jacksdale & Westwood Edition - December 2021

DECEMBER ‘21

SELSTON, PINXTON, JACKSDALE & WESTWOOD

Merry Christmas from all of us at Voice Magazines

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CODNOR KITCHEN

WIN!

Afternoon Tea for 2 SEE PAGE 31 Other Services Professional Health & Beauty Pets

pg4 Food & Retail pg8 Home pg21 Garden pg24

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Shouting about businesses in the heart of your community

www.VOICEMAGAZINES.co.uk

Riddings PHARMACY FREE PRESCRIPTION DELIVERY SERVICE Our dispensing services include while-you-wait, collection & FREE DELIVERY options.

Here at the pharmacy, under NHS services, we can NOW treat the following conditions without your doctor’s referral:

Urinary tract infection in females (UTI), Infected insect bites, Infected Eczema, Impetigo

ARE YOU SUFFERING AND NEED HELP WITH ANY OF THE FOLLOWING? Acid reflux • Back pain • Ear infections • ERECTILE DYSFUNCTION • Hives • Migraine • Period delay • Period pain • Throat infections If so, our pharmacist provides private face to face or telephone consultation service and, if needed, can supply prescription medicines.

WE ARE SPECIALISED IN CARE,TREATMENT AND PREVENTION OF THE FOLLOWING CONDITIONS: Arthritis • IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) • Celiac & Crohn’s Fatigue and weaknesses • Recurrent UTI • Diabetes • Asthma and COPD

Free BP monitoring and inhalers technique demonstration Stockist of: Pharmanord vitamins • Optibac probiotics • CBD Products Avogel herbal remedies • BP monitors • Thermometers • Oximeters Mention Voice Magazines and get 10% discount on any shop purchases.

Riddings Pharmacy, 31 Greenhill Lane, Leabrooks, Alfreton, DE55 1LU

Tel: 01773 606222

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Read our Magazines online https://issuu.com/ambervalleymedia

From the Editor Season Greetings Readers!

I’ve been wracking my brain trying to figure out how to round up this year. Whilst it has been turbulent again at times it is still significantly better than last year!! As a business, we’ve continued to grow and bring you more quality advertisers & content and reach more areas (which has put many more wrinkles and grey hairs upon myself) but personally speaking, I like to think that I have had a very fortunate year. I’ve personally achieved some of my major goals and targets that I’ve had set for years, we’ve travelled again (both within the UK and abroad), I’ve reignited my netball passion and made some wonderful new friends in the process, who are becoming much like family! I’ve also spent lots of quality time with my family – which is awesome after spending most of 2020 with them via a screen or through a window! But what I’ve really valued, more than anything, because it’s easy to get back onto the hamster wheel without noticing – are the little trips for a coffee & being able to walk the dogs further afield (can you remember when you weren’t allowed to drive anywhere?!) and escaping on a little break to London with friends to watch a show. This year has made me realise, more than most, what is taken for granted – so onwards and upwards for 2022 but my resolutions for next year are going to be much more grounded than their grandiose predecessors!!

LTD

VOICE

we each have our own front cover. But as you won’t receive all the magazines here is the whole team below and the magazine they feature on! As you look at it from L-R: Hayleigh (Darley Dale), Lisa (Broadmeadows), Danielle (Selston), Paul (Ripley), Liam (Kirkby), Neil (Sutton & Huthwaite), Maggi (Bakewell), Jude (Clay Cross), Michelle (Alfreton), Me (Swanwick) & The Dogs of Voice Magazines (Hope Valley). How talented is our Lisa to create all these avatars in different styles for us to use going forward… of course, if you would like your own avatar in a particular style for your business, our sister company at Artliff Design & Print is here to help (merciless plug!!). We’ve achieved some great things both individually and together throughout 2021 and I don’t think I’m alone when I say that we all look forward to what 2022 will bring for us all.

Anyway, the last thing left to say is “ Merry Yuletide to each and every one of you” – enjoy the novelty of the festivities with your family, raise a glass to 2022 and we’ll see you next year.

Happy Partying,

Onto the Voice family! I always said that I’d introduce you all to the team and we’ve cracked it this month as

x Emily And all the VOICE MAGAZINES TEAM

ly Emi

Liam Lisa gh Haylei

Danie lle

Paul

Neil

Maggi

Jude

Miche lle

Upcoming Submission Deadline for Advertisers & Contributors: January ‘22 Edition - 3rd December • February ‘22 Edition - 10th January

To advertise email: info@voicemagazines.co.uk or call us on 01773 549 035 Printed by Image2Print Ltd and distributed to 5,000 homes in North Derbyshire. Disclaimer: No responsibility is accepted by Voice Magazines Limited for claims, errors or omissions made in advertisements appearing in this issue. All advertisers are accepted in good faith and we are not responsible for views expressed by contributor or other sources. Reproduction of the contents of this magazine is not permitted without the prior consent of the publisher.

Voice Magazines Limited, 40 High Street, South Normanton, Derbyshire. DE55 2BP. Registered in England & Wales No: 10550557

To advertise please call Voice Team on 01773 549 035

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OTHER SERVICES

PC SUPPORT Computer Specialist • Problems fixed

TREE OF LIGHT APPEAL The Tree of Light which stands in the Hospice gardens throughout the Christmas season Is decorated with hundreds of tiny white lights, dedicated to those we remember.

The lighting ceremony and dedication service for those who sponsor a light will be held on Friday 3rd December at 6.30pm in the hospice grounds.

PLEASE NOTE THAT THIS IS AN OUTDOOR EVENT AND SEATING WILL BE LIMITED To sponsor a bulb, please contact us on 01623 622626 or contact@johneastwoodhospice.org.uk

Internet setup Upgrades Nertworking Advice • Crashes • • • •

3 YEARS WARRANTY ON NEW DESKTOP PCs

CALL OUT SERVICE PROVIDED

“ Any problem just call, maybe I can fix it over the phone”

Open 7 days a week 9:00am - 9:00pm 01773 609 390 07814 665 143

Extra measures will be taken to keep our staff and the community safe.

We will closely monitor legislation however please be aware that we may find it necessary to cancel this event at short notice to comply with Government guidance or Hospice health and safety procedures. www.johneastwoodhospice.org.uk contact@johneastwoodhospice.org.uk John Eastwood Hospice, Mansfield Road, Sutton in Ashfield NG17 4HJ

We accept credit card payments

www.pc-support-online.co.uk

In 1993, members of the Mansfield Lioness Club came up with a new fundraising initiative for the Hospice. With the help of donations from local companies, the first “Tree of Light” was erected and dressed in the Hospice Grounds, raising an amazing £1840.00.

The Mansfield Lioness Club disbanded after several years and some members decided to continue dedicated fundraising for the Hospice, they became appropriately known as SHINE. The lighting ceremony has changed considerably over the years, developing from a small group of people attending a chaplain-led service at the hospice to a very busy event at Queen Elizabeth’s School hall and after that at the Eastwood Suite at Portland College. Because of the Corona virus pandemic, last year we were unable to hold a Tree of Light service in the traditional manner and so winged our way through an online event viewable on Facebook.

Some years ago we created a Tree of Remembrance which enables sponsors to write a personal message on a tag and attach it to our symbolic tree, which stands in the Hospice reception. This proves very popular with bereaved families.

The tree of Light began as a fundraising event and has raised almost £200,000, however it has become much more. It is a way of remembering those we have loved and lost at a special time of the year.

We are very grateful to Collis Engineering who arrange delivery of the tree and erect and dress it for us.

We hope the tree will remain a symbol of light and hope for many years to come and that it continues to bring comfort to us all.

To find out more or to sponsor a light, please contact us by the methods below.

John Eastwood Hospice Trust, Mansfield Road, Sutton in Ashfield, Nottinghamshire, NG17 4HJ Web: www.johneastwoodhospice.org.uk email: contact@johneastwoodhospice.org.uk tel: 01623 622626

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Pye Hill Road, Jacksdale 01773 602 837 or 07712 964 932

NEW CARS: WE CAN SAVE YOU MONEY ON YOUR SERVICING! WE WISH EVERYONE A MERRY CHRISTMAS & HAPPY NEW YEAR

OTHER SERVICES

KNIGHTSBRIDGE GARAGE LTD WE CAN CARRY OUT YOUR SERVICING STAMP YOUR SERVICE BOOK WITH NO DETRIMENT TO YOUR MANUFACTURER WARRANTY!

WE ALSO DO: MoT’s, SERVICING & REPAIRS on all makes and models including imports 4x4s & performance cars Exhausts, Batteries, Diagnostic Code Reading, Clutches, Brakes, Steering & Suspension Air Bags, Lights, Service Indicator Resetting Under Body Protection, Welding & Minor Scuffs & Scratches

Welcome to YOUR community noticeboard. A dedicated space for you to post notices, events and for not-for-profit community groups advertise in.

To place a notice, from a uper-low rate of £6+VAT per square Contact Danielle on 01773 549035 or community@voicemagazines.co.uk

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YOU CAN MERGE SQUARES TOGETHER AND ALL YOU PAY FOR IS THE SQUARES THAT YOU USE

Alfreton Male Voice Choir Bass, Baritone or Tenor singers Join us at 6.30pm Thursdays at Palmer Morewood Social Club, Alfreton No audition. Visit www.alfretonmvc.co.uk

To5 advertise Don’t call forget Voice to mention Team Voice 01773Magazines 549 035 when responding to the Ads 5 NEWSplease • EVENTS • on UPDATES • LOCAL INTEREST

CHESTERFIELD CANAL TRUST: SANTA SPECIAL CRUISES

All our trip boats will be running Santa Special cruises in December.

All children get a present; all adults get a seasonal drink and a mince pie or similar.

All fares are £8.

Booking is essential. Schedule as below: John Varley ll Santa Special Cruise from Tapton Lock in Chesterfield on Saturdays and Sundays, 4th/5th, 11th/12th and 18th/19th December plus Wednesday 22nd & Thursday 23rd December.

To book, please ring 01629 533 020.

Wednesday 22nd & Thursday 23rd December.

To book, please email hughhenshall@ chesterfield-canal-trust.org.uk or ring 0114 360 0460 and leave a message.

Seth Ellis Santa Special Cruise from the Chequers Inn at Ranby on Saturdays and Sundays, 4th/5th, 11th/12th and 18th/19th December plus Wednesday 22nd, Thursday 23rd and Friday 24th December. To book, please email sethellis@chesterfield-canaltrust.org.uk or ring 07925 851 569.

Madeline Santa Special Cruise from Hollingwood Hub on Saturdays and Sundays, 4th/5th, 11th/12th and 18th/19th December.

To book, please ring 07708 050 171.

Hugh Henshall Santa Special Cruise from Shireoaks on Saturdays and Sundays, 4th/5th, 11th/12th and 18th/19th December plus

www.chesterfield-canal-trust.org.uk/santa-specials

OTHER SERVICES

Does your Septic Tank need checking?

01773 767 612

Our experienced local team can drop by for a ‘lift the lid’ type survey and discuss your specific situation.

The MPC Services team are here to help make sure that your sewage system is working well, properly maintained, up to date with the latest compliance regulations, working quietly and energy efficient. We can provide you with competitive pricing for your scheduled de-sludging, tank emptying, annual maintenance and repairs to help make sure that you are getting good value for money.

Ask us about:  Annual maintenance, call-outs or repairs � Tank emptying � Any bad smells, noises or other sewage issues � Property transactions & compliance

MPC Services (UK) Ltd

1 Heanor Gate Rd, Derbyshire, DE75 7RJ

enquiries@mpcservices.co.uk www.mpcservices.co.uk Company Reg No. 0608117

KICK-START YOUR NEW CAREER OR ENHANCE YOUR SKILLSET WITH OUR SPECIALIST PART-TIME COURSES. Engineering  Business and Administration  Childcare and Teaching  Construction Skills  Hair, Beauty and Barbering  Patisserie and Confectionery  Motor Vehicle  Pre-Access to University

START BUILDING A BETTER FUTURE TODAY.

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To advertise please call Voice Team on 01773 549 035

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Edward House

CQC Rated Outstanding for Care Our aim at Edward House is to provide a relaxed family atmosphere that everyone can enjoy. We have been caring for the elderly and retired members of our community since 1994 and in that period of time have developed close friendships with our residents and their families. We want everyone to be included in life at Edward House and we encourage family members to visit and take an active part in the ongoing care of their loved one and the social activities of the home.

Our recently extended home is now able to offer 44 bedrooms, ten of which are brand new ensuite rooms. All our bedrooms are individually and tastefully decorated for residents to make their own.

We encourage everyone to bring their own treasured possessions, or personal items of furniture with them, so that they feel they are truly in their own home from home.

175 Nottingham Road, Eastwood, Nottingham NG16 3GS

T: 01773 531591 E: edwardhouse@my-care.co.uk

The house contains some fine original features throughout its communal areas, which include a beautiful entrance hall, three lounges and a large dining room. Whether residents enjoy having a chat, reading or perhaps just sitting quietly there is always somewhere in the home for them to enjoy.

Edward House is situated in the heart of Eastwood, less than ten miles from both the centre of Nottingham and Derby. It offers residents the highest standard of care in a fine Edwardian house that has managed to retain many of its original features, whilst being sympathetically converted and modernised to provide excellent quality residential accommodation.

Ashton Court

Residential and Dementia Care Ashton Court has thirty-nine bedrooms all of which have been tastefully decorated, a perfect start for residents to create a room of their own. Some come with ensuite access, and there are also links to Freeview, telephone and Internet facilities. All our rooms are furnished to a high standard but we encourage everyone to personalise their room by bringing those special items of furniture, treasured possessions, and photos; our aim is for everyone to feel that they are living in their own home from home.

We always aim to provide first class care. We want all our residents to feel part of a warm and caring community, and that they live in a welcoming home from home. We want to make everyone feel special, as we believe care should be as individual as each of our residents are. We don’t forget families either and relatives and friends are able to visit at any time of the day or night, whenever is convenient for them subject to covid regulations.

We hope that you will enjoy a visit to Ashton Court and we are available at any time to help you with making the right choice

56 Three Tuns Road, Eastwood, Nottingham NG16 3EJ

T: 01773 712017 E: ashtoncourt@my-care.co.uk

Ashton Court is situated in the heart of Eastwood, less than ten miles from both the centre of Nottingham and Derby. It offers residents the highest standard of care in a relaxed and contemporary setting. Being in the heart of a bustling neighbourhood means that local people are very important to us and we have been caring for them since 1981. We are proud that, in that time, we have developed a home with a strong sense of community and an enviable reputation.

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W: www.my-care.co.uk

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PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

Was Santa a Viking?

Dear old Santa Claus, or Father Christmas as most of us in the UK would say, a cheerful chubby chap with white facial hair sporting a fetching red outfit and shiny black boots. Isn’t that how we all see him in our mind’s eyes?

We’ve all heard the stories about the origins of Father Christmas, including the one that says Coca Cola ‘invented’ the red outfit (the jury is out on that one because there are earlier images of a red-clothed gift giver). Let’s have a quick look at the myths and legends that surround the man himself…including one that may surprise you!

Most people assume that Father Christmas is a modern-day version of Saint Nicholas, born in the 3rd century in what is now Turkey. He was famed for his generosity to many people but in particular to children. His feast day, 6th December, is still widely celebrated in parts of Europe and could be the origin of gift-giving, as children were (are) given small presents if they have been good throughout the year. The Dutch figure, Sinterklaas, an old man with a white beard wearing red robes and carrying a big red book that records whether a child has been naughty or good, is surprisingly similar to how we portray Father Christmas today.

Midwinter festivals existed long before the Christianisation of Europe of course, and lots of the traditions we now associate with Christmas originate from that time. Yule or Yuletide was a period of feasting and drinking; a Yule log would be brought in, which would be burned on each of the 12 days of Yuletide. Greenery such as holly, ivy, mistletoe, and pine boughs were also brought inside to remind everyone that Winter would not last forever and Spring would return. Wreaths of greenery,

pinecones, holly, and the like would adorn homes; bells would be rung to keep evil spirits away, and children would sing songs. All very reminiscent of what goes on today!

Now to the idea that Father Christmas was a Viking…

Who has heard of Odin - king of the gods and former ruler of Asgard?

Odin was also known as Jólfaðr (Yule Father); he had many disguises but was particularly fond of an old, whitebearded man wearing a cloak and hood…sounding familiar? Odin was believed to lead a pack of elves, spirits, and frightening beasts across the sky, especially at Yule, punishing the bad and rewarding the good. He rode upon a flying eight-legged horse called Sleipnir and sometimes pulled a sleigh behind him - it’s all very Santa like, isn’t it? And to add icing to the cake (or icing sugar to the mince pie) old Nordic stories say that children would leave straw and carrots in their boots as a gift for a hungry Sleipnir, who would reward them with presents!

So back to the original question - was Father Christmas really a Viking god?

Who knows, and actually, who cares!

Have a wonderful Christmas.

These articles are researched and written by Laura Billingham, a local content writer and author. Laura moved to the Peak District several years ago to pursue her passion for writing.

To find out more visit www.landgassociates. co.uk or contact Laura on 07736 351341

To advertise please call Voice Team on 01773 549 035

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REVEREND D’EWES COKE LATTERDAY MILLIONAIRE AND INDUSTRIALIST (PART TWO) The 1780s were a memorable decade for Reverend Coke.

Miss Lillyman died in November 1780. Having no family of her own, she left everything she has to Reverend Coke; lands and estates in Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire and Cheshire, and all her money. Reverend Coke had a crypt built under the Brookhill Aisle in Pinxton Church for her and his immediate family.

In 1787 he went into partnership with two brothers Hodgkinson, to sink the first pit near to current day Pool Close. The following year he sank another shaft which became Sleights No 1 Pit. These were to coal. Seams which had been previously unacceptable because of water problems. However, by this time, the problem of draining pits had been solved with the development of more efficient steam pumps.

It was the start of coal mining as a major employment. Sleights pit was accompanied by the building of twenty cottages for incoming mineworkers. Previously the exploitation of coal in Pinxton had mainly been secondary to farming.

This was the start of an association with one industry which was to be the mainstay of Pinxton for almost two hundred years. An industry on which basically one hundred per cent of the local population was reliant.

Pinxton has a lot to thank Reverend D’Ewes Coke for – he was the architect of modern Pinxton.

He moved home to Brookhill Hall in early 1781.

He then had the inhabitants of the hamlet of “Brookhill” rehomed. These included the family of Thomas Brown aka The South Normanton Poet. He had the Hall renovated and new stables built – on their current site – and the whole estate landscaped, including the construction of the three current lakes.

The Reverence D’Ewes Coke once again became owner of a substantial amount of land in Pinxton which his grandfather had previously sold to Robert Lillyman. He then engaged in the re-purchase of the mineral rights under the village, which cost him the equivalent of several million pounds in today’s currency.

Pop over to our facebook page to see more about the Pinxton and South history To advertise please call Voice Team Normanton on 01773 549 035 group.

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Pinxton & South Normanton History Group

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CONTACT US T: 01773 861050 E: info@renshawmortgagesolutions.co.uk www.renshawmortgagesolutions.co.uk

A LOCAL BUSINESS YOU CAN TRUST - BASED IN SELSTON MORTGAGES HOME INSURANCE PROTECTION PLANS

TELEPHONE APPOINTMENTS NOW AVAILABLE As with all insurance policies, conditions and exclusions will apply.

Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage. Typically we charge a fee of £399 for arrangement of your mortgage, however the actual fee will not exceed 1.5% of the mortgage amount. The fees may be waived subject to the terms of the fee waiver agreement.

SOL8661

The Crystal Martin Group Pension Fund & Life Assurance Scheme (“Scheme”) Notice is hereby given, pursuant to section 27 of the Trustee Act 1925, that any person that believes that he or she has a claim against, or entitlement to a pension or any benefit from, or interest in the Scheme is hereby required to send particulars in writing within two months of the date of this publication of his or her claim or entitlement (together with full name, present address, date of birth, National Insurance Number and the full name of the Scheme) to: Mercer, Post Handling Centre, Floor 2, St James’s Tower, 7 Charlotte Street, Manchester, M1 4DZ (and mark it for the attention of David Penn).

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The Trustees will distribute the assets of the Scheme among the persons entitled to them having regard only to those persons of whose claims and entitlements they have notice and will not be liable to any other person. Any individuals who have already been contacted on behalf of the Trustees about this matter should not respond to this notice as the Trustees already have details of their claims and entitlements.

Mercer, for and on behalf of the Trustees of the Scheme.

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I sometimes wonder what goes on in people’s heads. Let me explain...

If my boiler needs a service I’ll call a qualified expert to do it... and if he/she says it needs replacing I’ll take their advice and get it sorted.

Why? Two reasons... I don’t understand boilers and the law says I have to.

If the brake warning light comes on in my car I’ll take it to a qualified/experienced mechanic; I’ll accept their advice and let them sort it out.

Why? Because I don’t fully understand brakes and faulty brakes put me and everybody else at risk.

But suddenly we have hundreds of tap room experts on vaccinations, men and women who know more about medicine than the most qualified and respected academics throughout the world.

Vax or no vax?

There are some strange views about. I’ve never heard this level of opposition to the flu jab... have you?

Hospitals are now full of “anti vaxers” who have COVID-19 and refused to protect themselves.

More than that they are enabling the virus to proliferate and impact on the rest of society.

I have two potential solutions to this issue.

One is to make the vaccine compulsory... e.g. it would be a criminal offence to refuse a vaccination. That might sound a bit draconian so I offer an alternative.

If you refuse a vaccination then you are legally housebound. No shops, no work, no pubs or places of entertainment. Nothing.

That gives everyone a choice... and makes the sane majority much safer.

You must have heard them... “I’m not having a vaccination, I don’t know what’s in it”. Well, I don’t know what’s in a doner kebab but I still like them...

“I’m not having a vaccination...they’re injecting you with a chip so they know where you are”.

Really? If you have a mobile phone or use a chip and pin card “they” know where you are anyway.

“I’m not having a vaccination... it’s personal choice and the government isn’t telling me what to do”.

Really? They tell you how fast you can drive and that you have to wear a seatbelt.They tell you it’s illegal to rob a bank or murder your neighbour.

Jim Coyle I would love to hear from you, so please drop me an email on jacoyle213@outlook.com

To advertise please call Voice Team on 01773 549 035

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OTHER SERVICES

W E I V ' A 'C

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hello@artliffdesign.com artliffdesign.com

LET US HELP YOU THIS FESTIVE SEASON! Signage Website Design & Build Apparel / Workwear Printed Stationery Logo & Brand Design Promotional Videos Social Media Design

Merry Christmas

AND MUCH MORE!

01773 317 148

WILKINSON BROS LTD Independent Family Funeral Directors Est. 1952 From the Wilkinson family to your family: We wish you a Merry Christmas and after another difficult year, let’s hope 2022 brings health and happiness to all.

Happy New Year!

A completely professional 24 hour service, covering all areas Private Chapel of Rest in peaceful surroundings We will provide you with a personal and sympathetic service, looking after all your needs and wishes Pre-arranged Funeral Plans, tailored to your specific wishes, are available

Our Family Looking After Your Family Email: info@wilkinsonbros.co.uk • Web: www.wilkinsonbros.co.uk 10 Church Hill, Old Blackwell, DE55 5HN 14

TEL: 01773 811371

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Pitcherwits

®

Pitcherwits® are crossword puzzles where some of the clues are in pictures. Sound easy? It’s not called “Pit-yourwits” for nothing!

The mixture of cryptic and picture clues, combined with Professor Rebus’ unique sense of humour, will keep you entertained for hours.

1

2

3

5

Across 7 Steed that’s croaked? (5) 8 Mute clatter in a bit of brilliance (5) 9 Blackwood that’s virtually skeletal?

(5) 11 Get very hot under the collar about old argument (5)

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and Guess the words rd! ! o w s s o r c Fill in the

Down 2 Hull water, not necessarily linked to the Humber (5) 3 0,2,3,4,5, and not a soul about (2-3) 10 Cheer for the internet? (5) 11 Rule out change to bishop being sadder? (5)

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Across

Down

1

Little flyer responsible for cereal flags? (4,7)

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Top gear on bike to halt schemer in his tracks (5,6)

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Ridicule Polly for using infrared (7)

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Get a fancy earplug to confound the epidemic (5,6)

12 Jumbo ‘pilots’ drawn to a mush (7)

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Act from pre-conception (7)

13 Bluecoat arm made from embroidered netting (7,4)

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Gets old, with lemons and golds (7)

ANSWERS FOR LAST MONTHS PITHERWITS Across: 1 Billy goat, 5 Cue, 6 I do, 7 Nailbed, 10 Sag, 11 Oddment, 12 Elf, 13 Pollute, 16 Lea, 17 Cot, 18 After dark.

Down: 1 Be in goal, 2 Lion, 3 Gull, 4 Tenderfoot, 5 Cassiopeia, 8 Admit, 9 Bite back, 14 Lore, 15 Elba.

This puzzles has been devised by the brilliant Professor Rebus. For more of his puzzles visit www.pitcherwits.co.uk

To advertise please call Voice Team on 01773 549 035

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OTHER SERVICES

There's no such thing as 'home alone' this Christmas Our family is your family, so come and join in with the festivities! Enjoy our homemade festive menu from our onsite chef, drink sherry aplenty at our parties, engage in activities galore or show off your Slade skills on the karaoke.

END OF LIFE CARE

DERBYSHIRE COUNTY COUNCIL QUALITY PREMIUM DEMENTIA AWARD

DERBYSHIRE COUNTY COUNCIL

Besides the traditional celebrations, you can also be assured of Milford Care’s Montessori practice, where we support residents to enjoy meaningful activities that reflect their unique interests and retain independence – whether that be tending to the garden like Titchmarsh, baking a batch of Berry’s finest, or toe tapping to the 70s like Travolta!

We also have a 24-hour personalised care service, over 30 years of care home experience and backed by the Derbyshire Quality Premium & Dementia Award.

QUALITY PREMIUM AWARD

Nursing care | Dementia care | Long-term care | Residential care | Respite care

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01773 520 491 | meadows@milfordcare.co.uk 76 Mansfield Road, Alfreton, DE55 7JL

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It’s Time to ‘Travel Light’ Living in a rural community in the Peak District National Park is wonderful, and the residents in these areas are well aware of how lucky they are. However, this rural idyll comes at a price; it’s rarely possible to just ‘nip to the shops’, easily visit a cinema, doctor or dentist surgery, or indeed do many of the things a city dweller (thanks to the close proximity of such facilities and good public transport links) takes for granted. Most people in the area rely on private cars in order to be able to go about daily life, and in the Hope Valley, two-thirds of regular journeys by adults are more than five miles. The public transport infrastructure is patchy, unreliable, and not currently perceived as a viable alternative for most people.

Local residents are joined by between three and five million visitors each year, and numbers have been growing during the pandemic. 90% of journeys to the National Park are made by car, as current public transport often does not serve the tourist attractions people wish to visit.

Cycling uptake in the Derbyshire Dales is also extremely low, only 2.6% of people cycle for travel once a week. This could be due to the terrain (this IS the Peak District) but also the lack of defined and maintained cycle routes. Cyclists from outside the area will often drive and park up before heading out on their bikes, as the routes into the area are perceived as unsafe. Something as simple as changing the speed limit to 20mph in villages and narrow lanes, could make walking and cycling feel safer and more attractive.

Given that transport is the UK’s largest greenhouse gas emitter, responsible for 27% of total emissions, what can be done in this region to work towards lowering the impact?

Here are some ideas from Hope Valley Climate Action groups ‘Travelling Light’ report; you can read more about the initiative on their website. The group is making a bid to Department for Transport for the Hope Valley to be a national beacon of sustainable travel for the future.

What if…

• people could travel safely by bike and on foot to reach local services, schools and workplaces • people took fewer journeys, working from home more • there were simple ways to share journeys or even the ownership of vehicles • some spaces were car-free, reclaimed for communities, cyclists and walkers • there were more public on-demand services available to get people where they want to go • more people had access to e-bikes, so they could travel further by bike • public transport was easy to understand and use with one network, one ticket and one timetable • there was a Hope Valley Mobility Hub, integrating all travel options into one welcoming place • it was convenient to charge an electric vehicle, even without a private driveway Ask yourselves if there is anything you can do NOW to reduce the car journeys you make.

These articles are researched and written by Laura Billingham, a local content writer and author. Laura moved to the Peak District several years ago to pursue her passion for writing.

To find out more visit www.landgassociates.co.uk or contact Laura on 07736 351341

To advertise please call Voice Team on 01773 549 035

17

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OTHER SERVICES

Trafford Lowe Funeral Services 24 Hour Personal Service with prompt attention An independently owned company which offers a traditional and caring service with attention to detail.

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Providers of Funeral Plans

Book Review

Crime writer Ann Cleeves is having a moment, you might say. She’s the pen (or keyboard) behind two recent major TV events – the latest Shetland series and The Long Call, broadcast over autumn. And she also wrote the books on which Vera, previously turned into very successful TV, were based.

But of course she was a writer of books first and if you’ve been hooked by the TV series it’s always interesting to read the books they came from. – For instance Jimmy Perez was described in the Shetland books as having Spanish heritage and being olive skinned with wild black hair! A far cry from gingery Dougie Henshall, even if he is perfect on TV. In any case, fans of The Long Call, will no doubt be pleased to know that the second book in the Two Rivers series, The Heron’s Cry, is now in bookstores.

It features detective Matthew Venn again, is set in a hot Devon summer (always a mood enhancing factor at this time of the year) and as always with Ann Cleeves books is driven as much by strong characterisation alongside twisty plotlines and plenty to keep the grey matter working. It’s a traditional mystery, but no less enjoyable for that.

Seems like another chapter in the Ann Cleeves success story.

To advertise please call Voice Team on 01773 549 035

19

Charlotte Groom Jumping for Joy! We are excited to share an interview with Charlotte Groom, 14 years old competitive horse rider from Peak District At Voice Magazines we like to shout out about the young people in our distribution areas who are making their way in various sports, this festive season is no different and we’d like to introduce you to Charlotte Groom…

Charlotte is 14 years old and lives in the small Peak District village of Foolow near Eyam, she has been a keen horse rider since the age of 5 and, as part of a team of four from Lady Manner’s school in Bakewell, she recently took part in the National Schools Equestrian Association (NSEA) Championships in Keysoe, Bedfordshire. Charlotte and the team managed to finish fourth overall out of a field of 43 other school teams.

We asked Charlotte how she was introduced to the world of riding, and she told us that whilst she was at primary school a lot of her friends began to ride so she decided to have a go herself. The rest, as they say, is history and now she has not one, but two beautiful horses, a black pony named Tilly and Una who she has had for only a few months. Una is “warm blood sports horse”, and her sires are Grand Prix showjumpers; she’s 15.2 hands and is brown and white (known as ‘coloured’ in the equestrian world). You can in the picture where Una is leaning over the stable door, just what a bond they have developed already.

Charlotte was very keen that her family be mentioned in this article, as without their support, she would never have been able to develop her riding skills to the level where she is able to compete. Looking after horses is a big commitment for the entire family - especially as we move into the dark winter nights - Groom family, we salute you!

So what’s next for Charlotte and Una? The plan is for them to move into one day eventing which includes dressage, and a round of show jumping followed by cross country and, as a result of their successes in 2021, the equestrian team from Lady Manner’s school has qualified for the NSEA Eventers Challenge final which will be held at Hickstead in May next year.

We have a feeling that we’ll all be hearing a lot more about Charlotte Groom and Una over the course of the next few years!

om Charlotte Gro Horse Rider 20

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HEALTH & BEAUTY

Merry Christmas!

From all of the Glendair Team

IMPLANTS

BRACES

SMILEFAST

DENPLAN

To join our Glendair Family in 2022, call us now on 01773 832164 to book or visit www.glendairdental.co.uk

Follow us @glendairdentalpractice & @glendairfaces GLENDAIR DENTAL PRACTICE | LIMES AVENUE | DE55 7DW

Clinic & home visit appointments available with BSc qualified audiologists Endoscopic micro suction (the safest method of ear wax removal) Prices from £40 Videos of our work available at www.themansfieldwaxclinic.co.uk or social media (Facebook & Instagram)

01623 325 051 | info@themansfieldwaxclinic.co.uk Oak House B, Ransom Wood Business Park, Southwell Road West, Mansfield, NG21 0HJ

To advertise please call Voice Team on 01773 549 035

21

BELPER MARLIN SWIMMING CLUB Ever thought of competitive swimming as a sport for you or your children? Belper Marlin Swimming Club is a competitive swimming club based at Belper Leisure Centre but also train at Alfreton and Heanor leisure centres.

All teaching is based upon the Swim England National plan for teaching swimming, and we employ a lead teacher at the club assisted by volunteers.

The first competitions at this level would be at the club sprints in June and the club championships in November each year. As they improve their skills and stamina the athletes are encouraged to enter open meets and county championships.

The club also employs 4 professional coaches.

Mike Brett is the Chief coach, with a Level 3 qualification who captained English Universities in 1982, and continues to swim having held National individual master’s records and Team World records. Mike has been coaching at the club for over 20 years now.

The ethos in the coaching team is to encourage each swimmer to achieve their potential. This

is done with a huge emphasis on technical skills on all strokes as well as dives and turns. This means less unfocused length swimming and more coaching feedback and fun. Using this approach Marlins have gone from strength to strength.

Belper Marlin SC has been in Division 1 of the West Midlands National Swimming League for the past 7 years, they regularly win multiple medals at county and Midland level.

We have also had a regular stream of National qualifiers and even medallists from the club. Marlins is a club from a small market town, and we punch well above our weight in our swimming achievements.

We have a maximum of about 9 hours training in the pool per week but are also part of the Derbyshire development pathway, encouraging our elite swimmers to train with Derventio Excel [county squad]. They then compete for DX at Midland level and above but still swim counties and Arena league for Marlins. Ross Davenport is our most famous swimmer having won 2 gold medals in the 2006 Commonwealth games.

If you are interested, please go to our website www.belpermarlin.co.uk and click “Join Us” or email us on info@belpermarlin.co.uk.

22

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HEALTH & BEAUTY

Eleventh Heaven Opening Times

Wednesday - 9.30am - 4.00pm • Thursday - 9.30am - 4.00pm Friday - 9.30 - 6.00pm • Saturday - 9.00pm - 2.00pm

Ladies Clothing and Shoe Boutique Clothing and shoes for all body shapes, sizes & ages

Christmas gift vouchers NOW AVAILABLE!

Based inside Studio Eleven Hair Salon, 1 Selston Road, Jacksdale, NG16 5LF

Tel: 01773 609 797 • Find us on

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23

HEALTH & BEAUTY

Are you thinking about replacing your current dentures?

Lets work together to make the dentures you want!

New affordable dentures Denture repairs Denture relines to improve the fit of a loose fitting denture • EXCLUSIVE VOICE READER OFFER • £20 off a new set of dentures with this advert We have in place and follow strict protocols to keep patients and staff safe during the Covid19 pandemic Overseeing the construction of your dentures from start to finish...

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Pets

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Call Sco� on 07929 208507

sco�@ssw.training @sswpets

24

www.ssw.training

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PetSsw

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Christmas can often be a busy time of year. Whether you’re out and about visiting friends and relatives, or you have family and friends coming over to your house, the change to your pets’ routine can be pretty stressful.

Take a look at our 10 festive tips to ensure your pet remains happy and content during the Christmas period.

Friends and family Visitors can sometimes be a little unnerving for pets. If your pet is usually concerned with visitors, it’s important to ensure your pet has a safe place they can retreat to where they won’t be disturbed. Having a familiar sound on such as the TV or radio may help to make them feel much more at ease too.

Stick to your routine Stick to your usual routine as much as possible. Keep mealtimes roughly the same, and ensure your dog gets their usual amount of exercise. If you usually walk your dog twice a day, then it’s a good idea stick to this, even during the busy Christmas period.

Travelling with your pet Travelling can be a stressful experience for your dog. If you are planning to travel with your pet, it’s a good idea to take their toys and bedding to provide some extra comfort.

Store gifts away safely Don’t leave presents under the tree – pets may be tempted to investigate and unwrap gifts. Keep gifts safely stored aware until Christmas morning and keep a close eye on your pet when opening your gifts.

Keep pet’s busy Kong toys and other interactive feeders are a great way to keep your pet distracted and their mind active, especially if you’re expecting lots of guests.

Away for Christmas?

If you’re away over the festive period but your pet is staying at home, allow them time to get used to whoever is looking after them before you leave. If your neighbour has kindly offered to look after your cat, let them both meet a few times beforehand.

Be aware of the Christmas tree A real Christmas tree looks beautiful, yet the oils in trees can be mildly toxic if consumed. The needles can also get stuck in your pet’s throat or in their paws.

Regularly sweep up any needles that have dropped onto the floor and try not to leave your pet unattended around the tree.

Cats climbing trees may also present a risk of injury, so help to keep them safe.

Decorations Decorations may appear to look like tempting new and shiny toys to play with yet tinsel and angel hair can cause serious illness if consumed.

Instead, help keep your pet’s playful side occupied by spending time playing with appropriate pet toys with them.

Lights may also be a very tempting toy. Make sure lights aren’t dangling, wires are tucked away safely, and lights are turned off when leaving your pet unattended.

Visiting children Ensure you supervise children and dogs together at all times.

Children can get very excited over Christmas, and to a dog, this can be very unpredictable behaviour and can cause them stress. Ensure your pet has somewhere safe they can retreat to at all times.

Tempting treats Keep an eye on chocolates, fruit cake and mince pies. Grapes, raisins and chocolate are all toxic to dogs, therefore, avoid leaving any food unattended. If you suspect your pet has ingested something that could cause harm, please contact your vet immediately.

We’re here for you and your pet 365 days a year, 7 days a week. If you’re concerned about your pet over the Christmas period, call us via

01332 678333 Article written by Scarsdale Vets To advertise please call Voice Team on 01773 549 035Tel: 01773 304914

25

FOOD & RETAIL

Pet Safety During the Festive Season

This classic ramble takes us back to March 2017. As this is a shorter walk I thought it would work well for these colder winter months. We begin and end near Portland Country Park, which just so happens to have a dog friendly visitors centre. Perfect for a cuppa after a good walk, and maybe a snozzage for your pup! Just check the opening times to avoid disappointment. The walk itself is lovely with a nice range of scenery, including some beautiful views.

Well worth braving the weather!

3.5-MILE CIRCULAR WALK FROM PORTLAND COUNTRY PARK

A steady walk for you and your dog, which should take around 1½ hours to complete. There is a range of terrains and a couple of steep inclines, along with the seasonal mud and puddles so make sure you wear appropriate footwear. There are also a couple of sections of road, so please take plenty of care.

START: PORTLAND COUNTRY PARK, LINDLEY’S LANE, KIRKBY IN ASHFIELD. NG17 9AL. ACCESS TO THE CAR PARK IS BEST DOWN LINDLEY LANE, WHICH CAN BE REACHED FROM THE B6020 IN KIRKBY-IN-ASHFIELD TOWN CENTRE. 1.

Standing with your back to the car park entrance, continue straight ahead, along a well laid footpath, passing a signboard on your left.

2.

Continue straight ahead until the path passes into some trees, bends around to the left, and then to a T junction of footpaths. At this point turn right and continue along a footpath with a steep drop to your left.

3.

A little further on, the path begins to descend. At the bottom of the hill you will reach a T junction of paths with a metal fence, and railway line directly in front of you. Turn right to continue along a footpath, keeping a metal fence and railway line on your left.

4.

Continue along this path for some distance, ignoring any paths leading off. Eventually the path bears slightly to the right and away from the

railway line. Continue straight ahead until reaching a T junction of paths. At the T junction turn left, climb up some steps, and cross over a railway bridge.

5.

As you climb down the steps from the bridge, continue straight ahead, ignoring the path on the right. Continue straight ahead for some distance until passing through a metal width restrictor. Continue straight ahead staying close to some trees on your right.

6.

Continue straight ahead until passing through a gap in a fence. After, ignore a path to the left, and continue straight ahead with a fence on both sides.

7.

Continue until you reach a cream coloured house on your left. At this point, keep right and begin to climb gently. Follow the path into a field, and now continue to climb with a hedge on you left.

8.

After a short distance, turn right, pass close by a pylon on your left, and continue to cross an open field. Continue straight ahead until passing a grave yard on your left. After, continue straight ahead to pass by a metal gate and into a church yard.

9.

Continue along a path and pass the church on your right. Pass through a wooden gate, out of the church yard, and onto a road. Turn left along the road, and begin to head downhill.

10. Continue along the road for some distance.

After passing a bus stop on your right, and just prior to a bus stop on your left, turn left along ‘Laburnum Avenue’.

11.

Continue along ‘Laburnum Avenue’ until the road bends sharp around to the right. At this point, continue straight ahead along a road for a short distance, and then continue as the road turns into a lane.

12. A very short distance along the lane, bear slightly left to continue along the lane with a wall on your right and a fence on your left.

Upon reaching a metal gate directly in front of you, bear slightly left again to continue along a

footpath with a fence on both sides.

13. After a very short distance the path splits in two. Take the right hand split and continue with a fence on both sides. Continue for some distance until reaching a metal gate directly in front of you. Pass by the gate, and then, turn immediately right, heading downhill across a field.

14. At the bottom of the hill cross over a wooden footbridge, pass through a gate, and then continue uphill to cross another field.

15. At the top of the hill, pass through a metal gate, cross over a railway line, and then pass through another metal gate. Continue straight ahead along a tarmac footpath. After a short distance pass by a sign board on your left, and begin to gently climb uphill.

16. Continue straight ahead for some distance until passing ‘Portland Country Park Visitor Centre’ on your left. The tarmac footpath now turns into a single track road.

17. Continue straight along the road passing ‘Kirkby Kennels’ on your right. After a short distance the road bends sharp to the left. At this point continue straight ahead along a lane.

18. After a short distance you will pass a farm on your right. Shortly after the farm the lane bends around to the right. Continue straight ahead to pass by a metal gate, and then continue straight ahead along a lane.

19. Follow the lane for some distance until reaching a road. Turn left along the road for a short distance, and then, just prior to a bus stop, turn left through a gap in the hedge, into a field.

Continue to cross the field with the hedge on your left. At the far side of the field continue straight ahead, along a lane, for a short distance, until reaching a road.

20. Turn left along the road for some distance until reaching a T junction of roads. Turn left again and after a short distance turn right, back into the car park, and starting point.

This walk is for illustrative purposes only. Voice Magazines 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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28

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Trading Standards Approved Biggest & Best Showroom in Nottingham

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Slimming World are famous for their Fakeaways and this recipe is no exception. Packed full of flavour to set your tastebuds tingling!

Method:

1. Spray a large non-stick frying pan with low-calorie cooking spray and place over a high heat. Add the garlic, chillies, canned tomatoes and curry powder and cook for 3-4 minutes or until the vegetables have softened.

Ingredients: • Low-calorie cooking spray • 3 garlic cloves, crushed

2. Add the beef and cook for 3-4 minutes, turning regularly. Pour in 200ml boiling water, reduce the heat to medium and simmer for 10 minutes or until the beef is tender and the sauce has reduced by about one-third, stirring occasionally.

• 2 green chillies, deseeded and chopped, plus sliced chilli to serve

3. Meanwhile, spray another non-stick frying pan with low-calorie cooking spray and place over a high heat. Stir-fry the onions and peppers for a few minutes or until lightly browned. Add the tomato wedges and fry for a few minutes more, stirring often.

• 400g lean beef steak, visible fat removed, cut into thin strips

4. Mix the cornflour with 1 tbsp cold water to form a smooth paste, then stir it into the beef and simmer for 1 minute to thicken the sauce, stirring constantly. Add the onions, peppers and tomato wedges, then remove from the heat and stir in the yogurt. Serve with plain boiled rice (we sprinkled a little chopped fresh coriander over ours).

For more information visit www.slimmingworld.co.uk

To advertise please call Voice Team on 01773 549 035

• 200g can chopped tomatoes • 2 tbsp curry powder*

• 2 large onions, cut into wedges • 2 large peppers (1 red, 1 yellow), deseeded and thickly sliced • 2 tomatoes, cut into wedges • 1 level tbsp cornflour • 2 tbsp fat-free natural yogurt

Serves: 4 Ready in: 35mins Syns per serving: ½ syn

29

FOOD & RETAIL

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Choose from a vast selection of fabrics in the comfort of your own home so you can buy with confidence in the knowledge that we have over 30 years of professional experience.

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771 457 | 07733 184 208

email:premiersales@hotmail.co.uk www.premierblindsandcurtains.co.uk

D.M. FURNISHINGS

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Are made to measure and made to order and can be delivered direct from our factory within 2 – 6 weeks.

Matching sofas and chairs available too.

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Please quote THE 50 PLUS VOICE when ringing or bring this advert to get FREE delivery OR FREE arm protectors 30

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FOOD & RETAIL

ONE STOP PARTY SHOP The Biggest Choice of Balloons and Party Items in Mansfield!

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Our personalised balloons are all hand drawn by our talented artists! They are very popular so make sure you order as early as possible to avoid disappointment

gate Lane, Mansfield NG18

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T: 01623 654 433

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To advertise please call Voice Team on 01773 549 035

31

FOOD & RETAIL

CLAIR’S OF DERBYSHIRE IS EXPANDING!

20 22 OU BROC T N HU OW RE !

Don’t worry we’re still small and we’re still family-run, but we will now have a stationary office for you to call in and make your bookings as well as the mobile office that will continue to visit local town centres.

Here at Clair’s of Derbyshire we thoroughly love taking people on holiday, putting smiles on their faces, helping them to have a great time, and making lasting memories, we really hope that it shows in the work that we do.

Our 2022 brochure is out now, and you can call into the mobile booking office to pick up yours if you haven’t already had one through the post, they are also available at Alfreton Market, Sutton indoor Market and in the new booking office after our grand opening, which will be

FOR A 2022 BROCHURE OR TO BOOK: PHONE 01773 590 808 or 07483 357 958 VISIT OUR MOBILE BOOKING OFFICE GO ONLINE WWW.CLAIRSCOACHES.CO.UK

held Wednesday 5th January between 10am and 2pm, join us for this special occasion, all of the team will be there, including Graham (Clair’s husband), Matthew (their son), Pam (Clair’s Mum), The Infamous Matt (coach driver extraordinaire) and, of course, Clair herself.

STATIONARY OFFICE

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FOR A 2022 BROCHURE OR TO BOOK: PHONE 01773 590 808 or 07483 357 958 VISIT OUR MOBILE BOOKING OFFICE • GO ONLINE WWW.CLAIRSCOACHES.CO.UK 2nd Tuesday of each month 9am – 1pm | South Normanton Market Place 2nd Thursday of each month 9.30am - 12.30pm | Bolsover Market & 1pm - 2pm | Market Street, Clay Cross

32

3rd Tuesday of each month 9am - 12noon Blackwell Community Centre 3rd Thursday of each month 9am – 1pm | Alfreton Severn Square Car Park (Outside B&M Bargains)

2nd Friday of each month 9am – 1pm | Ripley Market Place 3rd Friday of each month 9am – 1pm | Sutton-in-Ashfield, Portland Square

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FOOD & RETAIL

South Normanton Convenience Store FRIENDLY SERVICE AT YOUR LOCAL SHOP • Chilled Beers/Wines • Sweets • Soft Drinks • • General Store • Sandwiches • Coffee Machine • • Hardware, Plumbing & Power Tools • Household Items • Pound Shop Plus • Slush Machine

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FOOD & RETAIL

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A COMPLETE LOOK FOR

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35

FOOD & RETAIL

WINTER PACKAGE DEAL

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Established 1965

Digital Aerials, Freesat and Sky Multipoint

Specialists in replacing steamed up double glazing.

Digital Aerials, Freesat and Sky Multipoint

Replacement windows, doors conservatories, gutters, UPVC roof edging, soffits & fascias.

• Local

NO JOB TOO SMALL

• Trustworthy • Installers

You don’t always need to replace the frames you can just replace the panes.

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Tel: 07780 586 288

T: 01773 742387 M: 07973 676799

The Glazing Guys

m Orna ental Engineering

Tel: 01773 533 393

FREE QUOTES

• • • • •

Railings Fencing Hand Rails Drive & Garden Gates Ornamental Fencing

www.ornamentalengineering.com Unit 1a Taylor Lane, Industrial Estate, Loscoe, Derbyshire DE75 7TA

MHS

FEMALE

Gas, Heating & TRUSTED GAS Plumbing By Louise SAFE ENGINEER

Electrical Services All aspects of electrical work undertaken to the current IET wiring regulations, 18th edition BS 7671:2018

CONTACT MIKE on 07720 948 642 or 01773 860 381

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ECS Gold Card & JIB Approved

Ϣ Ϣ Ϣ Ϣ

Boiler installation Servicing & repairs Landlord reports System upgrades

CALL: 07850 258960 REGISTER

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Electrical Services

We have over 30 years in the trade and are a family run business.

Specialists in...

• • • • • • • •

Rewires, Extra Sockets, Lights, Fault Finding, Inspection & Testing, Etc.

Full Refurbs Roofing Bricklaying Joinery Damp Proofing Plastering Windows/Doors Painting & Decorating

• Consumer Unit Upgrades • Landlord Reports

...plus much more!

Call Ian for a FREE no obligation quote on

Our quotes are free

“We do it all!”

Tel: 01773 605 007 Mobile: 07921 133 945 www.blakeleybuilders.com

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Ian Wilson

Tel : 01773 306 460 Mob : 07549 617 536 Email: iwilsonelectrical@gmail.com

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Tel: 01773 749713 | Sales@leevaplumbing.co.uk | www.leevaplumbing.co.uk

Lee

Judy

Nikki

Sam

Hadley

Charlie

Ben

Lucas

Boiler Servicing | Heating Systems| Plumbing Repairs | Bathrooms

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NHS – YOU LOOKED AFTER US Now WE’LL look after you British Gas (per month**)

With gas fire Central Heating, Plumbing & Drains & Gas Fire. Includes Annual Service

Complete Central Heating, Plumbing & Drains. Includes Annual Service

Standard

(per month**)

FlameCare Over 60s (per month**)

NHS Heroes (per month†*)

£40.81††

£23.95

£20.95

FREE

(Homecare 300)

£17.95

£15.95

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£12.95 was £16.95

£10.95

FREE

(+£60 excess with gas fire)

£33.00†† (Homecare 100)

Boiler & Controls Cover, Includes Annual Service

FlameCare

£20.50††

was £27.95 was £21.95

was £24.95 was £19.95 was £14.95

Our promise to you JOIN US TODAY

Receive a FREE Initial Service Worth £85 – when you choose one of our comprehensive cover plans

Flame Care endeavour to provide first-class customer service, advice, workmanship and value for money to all our past, present and prospective customers.

Cover plan options We created our cover plans to suit a variety of domestic requirements and budgets. If you are unsure which plan would suit you, visit our website for more information.

Save even more if you’re OVER 60 If you are over 60 you can benefit from one of our dedicated cover plans. Not only will you receive the same level of service and cover, we’ve lowered the overall monthly cost even more. Visit the ‘over 60s’ page on our website for more information.

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Full Parts & Labour Guarantee.

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Terms and conditions: †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. NHS applicants please refer to our website for our additional terms and conditions. **Prices shown are inclusive of VAT. †† Prices correct as of 01-01-21.

Third-party prices may vary. †*Additional terms apply – see website for details: www.flamecare.co.uk/nhs-heroescover-plan-deal/

Applying Is Easy

Call freephone† 0800 08 555 18 Or book online: www.flamecare.co.uk

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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.

This puzzles has been devised by the brilliant Professor Rebus. For more of his puzzles visit www.pitcherwits.co.uk

1! 7 2 8 9 4 7 4 6 9 3 5 4 6 8 2 3 5 5 8 2 3 4 1 2 9 8 7

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SUDOKU #17

5 8

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No Problem No Call Out Charge

Gutters Cleared

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If there’s no problem then there’s no call out charge.

We remove leaves - moss - grass - growth & debris

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or online gutterpro.co.uk

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07375 559 374

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Sue’s Maintenance Services

LET ME TRANSFORM YOUR BATHROOM

1st Class HandyWoman

25 yrs experience in full bathroom installation

All work undertaken with great care & due diligence • Bathroom fitting • Plumbing • Laminate Flooring • Tiling • Painting • Flat Pack Furniture Assembly • Any Small Jobs

Tiling, shower panels and flooring Walk in shower conversions

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R A INSTALLATION

Now try the woman that CAN

Professional advice

Call Rob on:

01773 442 815

07710 973 000

or 07971 774 701

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A Touch Of Gloss Decorators Of Distinction

Darren Procter Professional Decorator

• Wallpapering • Feature Walls • Staircases • Free Estimates & Advice • Local, & reliable service • Fully insured • 25 years’ experience

Tel: 01773 602 973 Mob: 07986 852 124 Local Family Run Business

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HeatSafe Plumbing & Heating Services

 Domestic & Commercial Works   Installation, Service, Breakdowns   Boilers, Cookers & Fires   Complete Bathrooms with Tiling   Free Quotes & Friendly Advice 

Email: heatsafe@outlook.com

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CALL ADAM 07754 685545

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Mike’us sings M

I think he might be having us on you know...

Mike is always glad to hear from you at mike. musings@outlook.com

‘Tis the season to be......jolly Well, despite everything...... let’s try

The last time I saw George, he said he felt he’d become a bit of a local celebrity – for a modest fee he’ll happily come and open a new supermarket near you! – and other than stories from the glory days of Hilcote Hacademicals, he’d tell me a few tall tales of another sort. They made me smile.

What do you think?

in his frustration took a big kick at the snail and sent him ‘on his way’. He thought no more about it until around eight months later when, after another knock, he opened the door to find the snail once more on his step. “Sorry to interrupt you again sir”, the badly bruised snail began, “but have I offended you in some way?”

An Englishman, an Irishman and a Scotsman were all sentenced to death by firing squad.

Three Mansfield Town fans were recently in the pub moaning just how bad their team had been this season.

The Englishman was brought out first and as the firing squad took aim, he quickly hatched a plan and shouted out “AVALANCHE!!” In the confusion that followed, he managed to make good his escape.

The Irishman came next, and having watched his English colleague, decided to try something similar. This time, as the squad took aim, at the top of his voice, he yelled “FLOOD!” Again, this ploy worked, and in chaotic scenes he was able to slip away undetected.

Finally, wee Jimmy, having seen how his comrades had managed to escape, was the next to be brought out. Smiling inwardly as he watched the firing squad take aim for the third time, he confidently shouted “FIRE!” Having heard a knock, George went to his front door and found a snail looking up at him from the front step. The snail smiled and asked “Have you got a few minutes to take a survey on behalf of the local radio station?” George was fed up with the number of ‘cold calls’ he’d been getting, and

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The first said that he blamed the manager, Nigel Clough, claiming that “...he’s not a patch on his Dad.” The second blamed the players suggesting that “... they just don’t seem to put in the effort.”

“I blame my parents”, said the third. “If I’d been born in Chesterfield, I’d be supporting a decent team right now.” Ouch!

Finally, George told me of his difficult upbringing in Hilcote and of the abuse he had to take from the local gang, ‘The Blackwell Boys’. They would regularly hurl verbal abuse at him, but the worst humiliation was the day they smothered him in cream and stuck cherries up his nose. “Yes Mike” he told me with a wry smile, “it was really tough growing up in the gateaux.”

On that fitting note, George (& myself) hope you all have the merriest of times at Christmas, and assuming we survive the New Year, look forward to bring you more tales in 2022.

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Alarm & CCTV Specialists • Full alarm system service £60 with 12 months call-out cover • Brand new alarm systems from £450 fitted • CCTV systems from £500 fitted

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For more information contact: 01773 549 035 or distribution@voicemagazines.co.uk

Considering changing your bathroom?

Visit our Showroom in Riddings for inspiration & expert advice • Shower rooms & Ensuites • Bathroom Furniture & Storage • Easy Access Bathrooms • Tiles, Mirrors & Taps • Full Bathroom Suites • Space Saving Ideas

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EARN MONEY WHILST

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01623 459891

FIRST 4 FA £35 FIRST 4 FA

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Avoid the Winter freeze! free guttering and downpipes with all fascia and soffit orders!

Plus Open Sack & Loose Housecoal PICK UP A LOYALTY CARD TODAY TO START COLLECTING FOR FREE FUEL! SCAN THIS CODE TO DOWNLOAD OUR APP FOR MOBILES & TABLETS

Please call to arrange a FREE, no obligation quotation and survey

Discount for OAP’s Call Justin on Tel : 01623 459 891 Mob : 07921 08 16 76

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New Build Specialists Advice / Free Quotes TV’s set up or wall mounted Insurance Work • Storm Damage Extra TV points • FM, DAB aerials Installing CCTV systems FREEVIEW & FREESAT INSTALLED

www.langtonaerials.com

01773 811 912 / 07774 784 850 Local family business since 1989

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sales@kacox.co.uk kacox.co.uk

Tailored blinds & curtains FREE HOME SURVEY & QUOTATION

Choose your new blinds & curtains from the comfort of your own home with our free home survey or visit our showroom (Just 2 mins from IKEA)

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LIVING ES I R O M ME Collecting reflections and memories of the social history of life in our villages and towns NOW is important. It’s surprising how fast memories can fade; get the story slightly wrong and forget places .

With individual consent recording these memories as a future historical archive is important. YOU, the public are the experts here- you lived through it and collating those memories, writing names and places, dates on the back of old photos is one simple way of ensuring some records exist for the younger generations. They may not seem interested now, I too was the same, but the older you get the more it means. Eventually that information passes quickly into history so let’s do our best to help others remember our current generations. Since lock down these memories have proven invaluable to help people recover from isolation and improve

well-being. Groups of interested people have formed friendships and new organisations to do just this. The lack of self-esteem brought about by the lockdowns can’t be underestimated. Developing social interaction – as human beings we need this so if you are fed up of sitting at home alone or bored why not start a new group?

We are not dealing with ancient history but living memories of those amongst us. Look through your old photos and papers and participate in what could be a valuable resource for future generations. Yes, tell us again about the ‘Good old days!’

As an organisation we have been helping with a number of groups looking to develop memory banks, memory boxes and record local stories. Believe me it’s very rewarding!

Inspired by my friend Ivan at Tibshelf !

Contact: East Peak Countryside Associates CIC

Tel: 07854 646 742

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We are a small family business who offer many roofing related services Friendly and professional team with 35 years of experience Please call us for a FREE quotation

01773 848477 www.countymcandrewsroofing.co.uk

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ROOFING

FASCIAS-SOFFITSGUTTERING-SPECIALIST ➤Fascia & Soffits Replacements ➤Vast Range Of Colours & Styles ➤Dry Verge-Covers ➤Shiplap Cladding ➤Concrete Gutter Replacements ➤All Maintenance Work Undertaken

Tel: 01773 848340 info@familiarfascias.co.uk www.familiarfascias.co.uk

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Waste Recycling Household, garden, general building and waste metal removal.

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07581 450572 Licensed Waste Carrier

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Christmas across the Peak District I have written previously about both deer in the Peak and surrounding areas and about fungi such as the fly agaric ‘magic mushrooms’. The latter take us seamlessly into the Christmas and New Year celebrations since the hallucinogenic mushrooms gave us leaping and flying reindeer, perhaps Rudolph’s red nose, and various other aspects of the Santa Claus myth. All parts of the fly agaric are toxic or at least hallucinogenic but the effects vary with the part of the fungus, its condition, and with the recipient.

However, on the bleak semi-tundra landscape of Lapland with nomadic reindeer herders and the persistent mushroom lasting into the winter cold, the bright red-and-white cap attracted attention. Both Laplanders and reindeer consumed the mushroom with predictable effects. A mix of deer and viewers both ‘high’ led to the stories we have today. The aspect I still find hard to imagine is that Laplander shaman realised that the active hallucinogenic chemical passed through into reindeer urine intact and therefore they could get the desired effect by imbibing this. Therefore, the wise men of Lapland drank reindeer pee!

Our region’s deer are fallow (but very localised), red (widespread now on the high moors and surrounding areas), and roe deer (increasing in farmland and low-lying woodlands). We do not actually have reindeer except maybe a few around Christmas.

However, I do recall an article in the Guardian newspaper many years ago, that suggested how reindeer might be re-introduced to the Peak and Pennines as part of a rewilding programme. The article was a bit bonkers then I and I think remains so today!

Wrong species, wrong habitat, and above all, wrong climate.

Nevertheless, Christmas and New Year are a season to rejoice and to take stock of lives, landscapes, and of places. Head out to the Peak’s high moors and you are back in a land of prehistory, of Bronze Age and Iron Age farmers.

The wonderfully rich landscapes tell of people who venerated the seasons and especially summer and winter solstices. The barrows, cairns, and especially stone circles stand as testament to this lost culture of our ancestors. Often today, these monuments are unseen and hidden for the many recreational visitors to the region. Yet it is worthwhile to stand quietly in these special pre-Christian places and to ponder our ancestors celebrating the death of one year in the winter chill and the darkness, and then the hope of a new year to come. This is a nod to the endless cycle of life and death and new life again. In amongst the modern hustle and bustle of Christmas shopping, endless playing of ‘Jingle bells’ or ‘Last Christmas’ in shops and garden centres across the land, perhaps head out for the loneliness of the hills, moors, and bogs and simply take time to wonder what it is all about. Stand on the Peak District edges and look westwards from the Eastern Moors, or maybe eastward from around Goyt or Buxton, and imagine prehistoric communities and settlements on each of the high points you can see. What, I wonder, was their midwinter celebration like.

Professor Ian D. Rotherham, researcher, writer, broadcaster on wildlife and environmental issues in the Peak District and elsewhere, is contactable on info@hallamec.plus.com. Follow his website www.ukeconet.org, blog ianswalkonthewildside, & Twitter @IanThewildside 48 Don’t forget to mention Voice Magazines when responding to the Ads

The Perfect Escape.

Holiday at home...

it’s a room that adds value to your life, and your home. With 20 years experience in designing, manufacturing and installing garden buildings throughout the UK you can trust that Cabin Master will deliver you The Perfect Space for your garden, such as a Garden Office, Gym, Mancave, Garden Bar, Entertaining Space or Spare Room.

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GARDENS

Gardener’s Calendar

Gardening by the fire is a good move this time of year.

It’s all about planning. You can record where you put the spring bulbs; what things looked like this year and more importantly which things did best in certain places.

And you can still see the footprint of existing plants before they disappear under snow and heavy frost. So you’ve got a head-start if you want to make changes next year.

If you’re outside, this is a good month to plant bare root roses and trees. Prune apple and pear trees while they are dormant and the same with acers and birches to avoid them bleeding as this weakens them.

Oriental poppies and Japanese anemones can be propagated by taking root cuttings now. Gently dig down to the roots and cut pieces off, gently brushing the soil off. Cut pieces of root 1-2 inches (2.5-5cms long) and push into small pots or a tray of loose well drained compost. You need to put them in the right way up, so think of it as the way they were growing in the soil – i.e. thickest at the top. Store in a cool but frost free frame – even a home-made frame from a box with a bit of glass over next to the house will do.

And wait for shoots before planting out.

Top Tip:

Birds need lots of energy at this time of year. You can provide that through your feeders with fat balls, suet and peanuts. They need water even in winter, and a bird bath lets them wash and keep their feathers oiled. Even an upturned bin lid would do. And for hedgehogs leaf piles provide easy habitats.

If you’re using a paraffin heater in your greenhouse, do also keep it ventilated during the day as the fuel produces moisture which can encourage mould and rot. You’ll use more fuel, but your plants have a better chance of thriving.

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WE’REO HERE T

help

01623 782 789 www.hopkins-solicitors.co.uk

“9.6 out of 10 clients highly recommend us”

Managing your personal affairs is important It’s all about finding a local expert that you can trust to keep your best interests at heart, whilst giving you straightforward advice.

No matter what twists and turns life throws at you, our full service team are here to help. > Buying, Selling or Remortgaging Property

> Employment Advice; Furlough or Redundancy

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To our advertise please call Voice Team on 01773 549 035 offices are set up for safe social distancing meetings, prior to attending our offices please book an appointment. 51 We have the technology to complete the majority of legal matters by phone, email or post.

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