Voice Magazines - Selston, Pinxton, Jacksdale & Westwood Edition - January 2024

DI TIO NS

REA D

BY OVE

R 16 2,0 00 0R ESI DEN TS

SELSTON, PINXTON, JACKSDALE & WESTWOOD

12 E

JAN ‘24

Rightio Plumbers 0115 971 1007 OUR SERVICES Boiler Breakdowns Boiler Servicing Radiators & Pipes

We work in Selston, Pinxton, Jacksdale, Westwood & all surrounding areas

Tanks & Cylinders Toilets & Taps Leaks & Bursts Showers Clearing Blockages Pipework Replacement

Fast Response

All Work Guaranteed

Gas Safe Certified

Highly Experienced Clear Pricing

12 Month guarantee on labour!

OAP Discount Speak to us today!

1-2 Hour

Response time!

650921

Check out our Facebook Group

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

From the Editor Happy New Year Readers!!!

2024 – let’s see what you’ve got in store for us all in the continuation of this crazy decade?! It can’t be any worse right??!! To be fair, I’d be ecstatic with interest rates coming down anytime soon (thanks Liz #eyeroll) to make my mortgage into a number that doesn’t spell words upside down on a calculator! It’s only a Semi for crikey’s sake, I reckon I’d get a tasty property in Bel Air for the same monthly cost currently!

Anyway, with that in mind, no predictions from me this year (unlike our resident writer Mike, who has turned into Mystic Meg – God rest her soul).

There is absolutely no point because the way 2023 has unfolded, it’s all a bit beyond my imagination!

Personally speaking, I think I will go back to my resolutions this year – well, for January at least!!

Laura (our other resident writer) is with me on the resolution thing but she is going for ‘finding your inner child’, which is brilliant. My only trouble with that one is, my child is quite ‘outer’ already, so I’m back to the drawing board on what I want to do.

I need to find something that challenges me but is low on cost. Maybe something like decluttering the house – that would be very challenging in our house! Nah, Mr Emily would never go for it!

Oooh, I remember reading about Flo Meiler who is 84 and keeps winning medals at pole vaulting. She didn’t’ start until she was 60! I mean, how inspirational is that! Maybe there is hope for me yet? Although, I’m far too clumsy for pole vaulting. I did consider parkour

(the jumping across buildings thing, not the winter jacket) but I ruled it out for the same reasons…...oh and I’m not that balanced and my head for heights is diminishing as the years pass by!!

As a more sedate but equally as challenging undertaking for me, I have briefly considered taking up ‘knitting’ in honour of my late Grandma. She was fantastic at it and knitted me various garments and even one of those knitted scarecrows that everyone had in the late 80’s/early 90’s. In a bid to try and pass on her knowledge and no doubt, I chewed her ear off about teaching me, she bought me my very own yarn selection and child size knitting needles from Alfreton Market one day. I was very excited about this! She dutifully sat me down on many occasions to try and teach me the knit and purl of this forgotten art. Turns out that the only thing I was any good at was ‘dropping’ stitches. It tested our relationship and sufficed to say (no doubt feeling murderous towards me on more than one occasion), the needles were ‘lost’! So instead we spent our Saturdays watching Bullesye and eating cake! Happy times.

Anyway, I’ll let you know what I decided in the Feb edition – if I can settle on anything, this might be the theme of this year – new monthly hobbies!!

Happy Reading.

x Emily

LEISURE CENTRE

POST OFFICE

OPEN

WITH 12 MAGAZINES COVERING NOTTINGHAMSHIRE & DERBYSHIRE, WHY NOT ADVERTISE IN ANOTHER AREA? Upcoming Submission Deadline for Advertisers & Contributors: February ‘24 Edition - 12th January ‘24 • March ‘24 Edition - 10th February ‘24

To advertise email: info@voicemagazines.co.uk or call us on 01773 549 035 Printed by Phase Print Ltd and distributed to 5,000 homes in Selston, Pixnxton & Jacksdale 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

3

NEW YEAR – NEW YOU EMBRACE YOUR INNER CHILD! I celebrated a milestone birthday just before Christmas, and it’s got me thinking “about life, the universe, and everything” (a Hitchhiker’s Guide reference), and how as we grow older we often lose touch with our inner child.

As a writer, I spend a lot of time researching and reading, and I came across an analogy the other day that I would like to share with you. It doesn’t matter if you are 87, or 17, I think the sentiment will resonate with you.

Here it is…

You are like a book - your ages are like the pages. You might be on page 78, but page 7 is still right there, unchanged and accessible to you. The 7-year-old you never went away, they are there, inside you still, so it’s a simple shift of focus to connect with the child you still are, not the child you ‘were’.

Deep, right?

But yet, very simple.

As we grow older, we become enmeshed in the practicalities of living; have the bills been paid, the shopping done, beds made, clothes washed…and so on, ad infinitum. If we’re not careful, we can lose the joy in our lives, as we become subsumed by simply surviving.

Your task for 2024 and beyond is to reconnect with the childlike part of yourself.

Remember how it felt to be a small child, curious, inquisitive, fearless? Allow yourself to live fully in each moment, feel the rain on your upturned face, try something different – a new food, drink, or activity.

Marvel at the way dew glistens on a spider web, as if hundreds of tiny diamonds had been captured in the sticky strands.

Catch snowflakes on your tongue.

Eat candyfloss at the seaside and giggle as it dissolves in your mouth.

Go for a stroll in the countryside and jump in puddles (wellies essential).

Reconnecting with your inner child doesn’t mean you absolve all your responsibilities – we still have to “adult” (sadly!), but give yourself time to play too. What’s that old adage? “All work and no play make Jack a dull boy.” But allowing yourself to have fun whilst adulting is a something we should all embrace.

Even mundane tasks can be made more fun.

Put some music on whilst doing the housework and dance whilst you clean. As an added bonus, you’ll be getting some exercise too!

This January, forget New Year resolutions that you will probably give up by the time February appears, and instead take a vow to remember and reconnect with your inner child.

Why not see if you can dig out an old photo of yourself and stick it on the fridge – or some other prominent place? Better yet (if you are a gadget geek like me) turn that photo into your computer or phone’s screen saver. You will have a constant visual reminder of the beautiful child you were, and still are inside…no matter how many love lines now adorn your face.

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.word-witch.co.uk or contact Laura on 07736 351 341

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

To advertise please call Voice Team on 01773 549 035

5

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

6

Don’t forget to mention Voice Magazines when responding to the Ads

JANUARY 2024

PINXTON MILL

All that is left to indicate that Pinxton once had a water mill, is Mill Lane. Unfortunately, the only evidence we have of what it looked like is a line drawing from the late eighteenth/ early nineteenth century, on porcelain.

The mill was mentioned in the Domesday Survey of 1086 AD, undertaken at the behest of William the Conqueror.

At that date, the mill and, it is believed, a stone building were situated on the site of Pinxton St. Helen’s Church, which would have been the living quarters of the local Norman overseer; one Drago (or Drogo) Fitz Ponce (the derivation of whose name, the village name evolved).

The only other occupants of the village were clustered around the area of modern-day Toll Bar. A map from the 1724

clearly shows the location of the three-field system of agriculture. The track from the Toll Bar to Selston, was originally called Beaufit Lane (now Station Road). Pinxton Green is also clearly marked just to the left on what today is Kirkby Lane.

Many older people will recall the farm situated on the bend of Station Road, which was ‘Manor Farm’, which would indicate it stood on the original manor house, prior to the Norman Conquest.

The map clearly shows the outline of the old ‘three-field system’ of farming.

The Toll Bar has always been a crossroad. The road to North and East formed part of the former Turnpike Road, from Alfreton to Newark. The lane to the West was known as Mill Close Lane and, obviously,

led to the Mill, essential for grinding the corn/wheat.

Today it is called Wharf Road.

However, the wharf was not formed until the completion of the Pinxton Mill to Codner Park arm of the Cromford Canal in April 1795. The two parts of the village were not fully developed until around 1901 when ‘the bottom-end’ was developed

by Pinxton Collieries Company and Widmerpool, Sleights, Talbot and Park Lane area was built, to house incoming mineworkers, prior to the sinking of Brookhill Colliery.

Unfortunately, Pinxton Mill burned down in 1841. This was just after the school master, Mr Hanson, was killed there.

He was being given a tour of the building, when his clothing got caught in the mechanism driving the mill wheel and he was killed.

POP OVER WHY TONOT OURGIVE FACEBOOK OUR FACEBOOK PAGE TO SEE PAGE MORE A VISIT? ABOUT THE SUTTON PINXTON HERITAGE AND SOCIETY SOUTH NORMANTON ON WWW.SUTTONHERITAGE.ORG.UK HISTORY GROUP. To advertise please call Voice Team on 01773 549 035

7

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

Pinxton & South Normanton: History Group

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

Heritage of Bakewell JANUARY 2024

TAXES FOR ALL PEOPLE HAVE ALWAYS PAID TAXES

The first recorded taxation was in Egypt 5000 years ago.

Coin money didn’t exist, so the Pharaoh claimed approximately 20% of all grain harvested by the people. It wasn’t long before the idea of taxation spread round the rest of the world.

In the 16th century the Diocese of Coventry and Lichfield covered a vast area of land. Ralph Gell was charged with collecting the taxes, tithes, for the Diocese on behalf of the church and clergy.

Ralph lived at Hopton Hall. He appointed Christopher Plant as his agent and to supervise collection of tithes. He owned a cottage in Bakewell that we now know as the Old House Museum.

Christopher was installed there to carry out his work. His task was to collect tithes for our area.

A tithe was one tenth of a worker’s income for the year.

This tax was paid with livestock, grain, vegetable, dairy products or money and barns were erected specifically to hold the produce until it could be moved on. An original tithe barn still stands today in Ashford in the Water, near the lovely packhorse bridge. Paying tithes was considered a legal and moral

8

obligation as the money went to support the church and clergy.

Anyone who didn’t pay their tithe could be pursued through the courts, though cheating God and the fear of excommunication would have horrified people.

Nowadays, Christopher would have been known as the tax collector and I imagine he will not have been the most popular person about town.

Ever present throughout history wars were, and still are, expensive. To raise funds for soldiers and weapons Pharaohs, Tsars and Kings taxed their people. Over the centuries various taxes were introduced, some sensible, others more ridiculous than you can imagine.

Around 1535 a beard tax was introduced by King Henry VIII. He had a beard which became a sign of high social class and status. Sporting a beard and paying your tax showed you were wealthy. In Russia the Tsar imposed a similar tax but for the very opposite reason.

He considered beards to be extremely uncultured.

In 1696 King William III ordered that duty be put on the glass in windows. The king taxed people

for having windows and people actually bricked up some of their windows to avoid paying.

There are still houses where you can see an old frame filled with bricks. Ever heard the phrase daylight robbery? Guess where it came from.

In the 1700s a tax was introduced on the number of bricks used.

Of course, this just encouraged builders to use bigger bricks in an effort to pay less tax. It worked for a while.

A hat tax was introduced around 1784. This meant hat salesmen had to buy a license then display the amount of tax to be paid on every hat they wished to sell. As wealthier people bought more hats, they were heavily taxed whereas the poor, only owning one hat, faired a little better.

Between the 16th and 17th century playing a game of cards was popular. King James I, decided this might be a good opportunity to raise revenue. A law was made that an emblem be placed on the Ace of Spades to prove the tax had been paid.

Who knew?

Taxes, tithes, we all hate them, but pay we must.

JOYCE JANES ON BEHALF OF THE OLD HOUSE MUSEUM. WWW.OLDHOUSEMUSEUM.ORG.UK Don’t forget to mention Voice Magazines when responding to the Ads

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

Your local, independent mortgage brokers

FINDING THE

MORTGAGE THAT’S RIGHT

FOR YOU

WE HAVE MOVED • WE HAVE MOVED • WE HAVE MOVED CONTACT US T: 01773 861050 • E: info@renshawmortgagesolutions.co.uk www.renshawmortgagesolutions.co.uk 25 Main Road, Jacksdale, Nottingham. NG16 5JU

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.

WE MAKE YOUR IDEAS HAPPEN!

FOR ALL YOUR DESIGN NEEDS! www.artliffdesign.com

01773 317 148

To advertise please call Voice Team on 01773 549 035

9

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

WILKINSON BROS LTD Independent Family Funeral Directors Est. 1952

Incorporating Derrick Gent Funeral Service, Pinxton

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

TEL: 01773 811371

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

NEW CARS: WE CAN SAVE YOU MONEY ON YOUR SERVICING!

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

Opening Times

Mon - Fri 7.00am - 5.00pm 10

Don’t forget to mention Voice Magazines when responding to the Ads

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

Contact Sarah 0115 849 2386

info@prioritystairlifts.co.uk

We’re proud of our reputation.

Hear from our happy customers at:

Local Installation, Repairs and Servicing of Stairlifts

■ Local, family-run business ■ Almost 20 years’ experience ■ New, reconditioned and ■ rental available ■ Friendly, personal service ■ Free, no obligation survey ■ 24/7, 365 days call-out ■ Repairs and servicing ■ of all types of stairlifts ■ Excellent customer feedback

prioritystairlifts

www.prioritystairlifts.co.uk

All Around the Shire DASHING AWAY WITH THE SMOOTHING IRON….

If Monday was washing day, then Tuesday was ironing day. One of our recent acquisitions is a small iron with a fabric flex and a bayonet-type plug designed to be connected into a pendant light fitting. I well remember in the early sixties, my very tall dad reaching up to plug in the iron for my mum to iron shirts or for him to press his army uniform. He wouldn’t let mum do it because the only time she did, Dad was put on jankers (confined to barracks) because his trouser leg creases were not straight.

We didn’t have an ironing board, so mum lay a thick blanket covered with a sheet on the table and used a damp tea towel for very crumpled shirts. There was always a certain warm, slightly frazzled smell which I still remember today.

When I was small, my mum taught me to iron, starting off with hankies and tea towels, eventually progressing to shirts which had to be approached in an unchanging sequence: back of collar, front of collar, cuffs, arms, button side front and so on. Even now, I follow the same pattern and find pleasure and relaxation in doing so.

We come across many people during our reminiscence sessions who have living memories of flat irons (sometimes called sad irons) being

used on a day-to day basis. Two were usually required: one to heat up on the range and the other to press the clothing. Some people even remember using paraffin irons or ones filled with hot coals.

The 1960’s saw many new, manmade polyester-based fabrics such as crimplene and easy-care polycottons. Not so much to iron.

Nowadays, our flat iron is a door stop and our bayonet fitting iron is a curiosity. But I still iron with pleasure and smile to myself when I remember….

Janet and Paul Barrass are All Around the Shire.

Find us on or email: oldfield512@btinternet.com for more information.

To advertise please call Voice Team on 01773 549 035

Janet

11

FOOD & RETAIL

01773 712888

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)

12

Don’t forget to mention Voice Magazines when responding to the Ads

FOOD & RETAIL

D.M. FURNISHINGS 9-11 Outram Street, Sutton-in-Ashfield, Notts, NG17 4BA (Next door to Wilko’s and with Asda car park directly behind us)

VISIT OUR BRAND NEW SHOWROOM

TWO FLOOR'S WITH OVER 150 PIECES OF FURNITURE ON DISPLAY FREE HOME DESIGN SERVICE AVAILABLE, PLEASE CALL FOR DETAILS

All our sofas, chairs and recliners are made to order in the UK and come at direct from the factory prices normally within 6 – 8 weeks Only 100% genuine leather used on all our Italian suites, which are made to order in any colour and normally delivered within 8 – 10 weeks.

Reupholstery, repairs & cushion replacement service available - call for appointment

Your local rise & recliner SPECIALIST, 48HR Delivery on selected models Electric adjustable beds available along with divans and headboards in ALL sizes Full range of mattresses inc. orthopaedic, pocket sprung, memory foam, etc in ALL sizes.

OPENING HOURS: Mon: 9.30am - 5.00pm | Tues: 9.30am - 5.00pm Wed: 9.30am - 1.30pm Thurs: 9.30am - 5.00pm | Fri: 9.30am - 5.00pm Sat: 9.00am - 1.00pm Sunday - Closed for family time

Tel: 01623 440 448

www.dmfurnishings.co.uk • sales@dmfurnishings.co.uk

To advertise please Voice Team on 01773 549 035 Findcall us on Facebook & Twitter: @DMFurnishings

13

FOOD & RETAIL

CARPETS Wool, Hardwearing, Soft Touch, laminate flooring, LVT Flooring, Vinyl cushion flooring.

Free estimates, free planning, free measuring, free delivering, fitting arranged.

Sofa Bespoke sofa made to order.

Fabric and leather available.

If you can’t make it into the store, we can offer a FREE home Family selection service, B usines s where we bring the store to you.

Recliners.

Any combination.

BEDS Our beds are the only approved trading standards manufactory in the UK. All beds carry a 5yrs Warranty.

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

Lots of choice of mattresses, Storage Bases & Head Board also Electric beds.

Mon - Thurs: 9am - 7pm Friday - Saturday: 9am - 5pm Sunday: 11am - 3pm

01773 462 826

www.bmcarpets.co.uk | Unit 34, Market Street, South Normanton, DE55 3EL

Beautiful Plantation shutters Curtain poles and tracking

Blinds, Curtains or Shutters Bay windows are our speciality

Blinds & Curtains to meet your budget

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.

Roller Blind

Roman Blind

Black out Curtains & Vertical Blinds

Call us to book a home visit 01773 771 457 | 07733 184 208

email:premiersales@hotmail.co.uk www.premierblindsandcurtains.co.uk 14

Don’t forget to mention Voice Magazines when responding to the Ads

ALL HALF BOARD INCLUDING EXCURSIONS & ENTERTAINMENT!

ISLE OF WIGHT

Local Pick Up Points

ISLE OF WIGHT

Local Pick Up Points

DURHAM

Burlington Hotel, Sandown Mon 12th - Fri 16th Feb Mon 19th - Fri 23rd Feb 5 Days - £215

Channel View Hotel, Shanklin Mon 4th - Fri 8th Mar 5 Days - £260

LYTHAM ST ANNES - MOTHERS DAY Inn On The Prom Sun 10th - Mon 11th March Local Pick 2 Days • £130 Up Points

Local Pick Up Points

Radisson Blu Hotel Sun 10th - Mon 11th Mar Local Pick 2 Days - £135 Up Points

MORECAMBE

SCARBOROUGH Red Lea Hotel Mon 1st - Fri 5th Apr 5 Days - £399

MYSTERY WEEKEND Mystery Hotel Sat 23rd – Sun 24th Mar 2 Days - £125

ST AGNES Rosemundy House Hotel Mon 1st - Fri 5th Apr 5 Days - £399

Auckland Hotel Mon 11th - Fri 15th Mar 5 Days - £325 Local Pick Up Points

CROMER

Hotel De Paris Mon 25th - Fri 29th Mar 5 Days - £365

FOR A 2024 BROCHURE OR TO BOOK: PHONE: 01773 590 808 01246 604 764 or 07483 357 958

MOBILE BOOKING OFFICE LOCATIONS 2nd Tuesday of each month 9am - 1pm | South Normanton Market Place

3rd Thursday of each month 9am - 1pm | Alfreton Severn Square Car Park (Outside B&M)

Go online WWW.CLAIRSCOACHES.CO.UK

2nd Friday of each month 9am - 1pm | Ripley Market Place

NEW BOOKING OFFICE: Parkvilla,124 Market Street, Clay Cross, Derbyshire S45 9LY

3rd Tues of each month 9am - 12noon | Blackwell Community Centre

3rd Friday of each month 9am - 1pm | Sutton-in-Ashfield, Portland Square

To advertise please call Voice Team on 01773 549 035

15

FOOD & RETAIL

COACH TOUR HOLIDAYS

DO OR PIC TO D K U OO P! R

FOOD & RETAIL

Slimming World Recipe Cowboy Hotpot Method: 1. Preheat your oven to 200°C/ fan 180°C/gas 6.

2. Cook the potatoes in a saucepan of boiling water over a high heat for 5 minutes, then drain and set aside to cool.

It’s pretty miserable outsaide.

So what you need is something warm and comforting to fill you up on cold winters nights.

4. Stir the stock cube into 200ml hot water, then add to the sausage pan along with the mixed beans, baked beans, sweetcorn, Marmite, Worcestershire sauce, vinegar and spring onions. Simmer for 5 minutes, then transfer to an ovenproof dish and top with the potatoes. Spray with low-calorie cooking spray and cook in the oven for 30 minutes. Serve hot, with your favourite Speed vegetables.

3. Meanwhile, spray a large non-stick saucepan with low-calorie cooking spray and put it over a medium heat. Brown the sausages on all sides for 5 minutes, then add the garlic, onion and peppers and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Stir in the tomato purée and smoked paprika and cook for 5 minutes.

For more information visit www.slimmingworld.co.uk

Serves: 4 Ready in: 1 hour

Ingredients: • 500g floury potatoes, • such as King Edward or Maris Piper, thinly • sliced • • Low-calorie cooking spray • • 12 Slimming World Pork Sausages, chopped into chunks • • 4 garlic cloves, • chopped • • 1 large red onion, diced • • 2 red peppers, deseeded and diced • 2 tbsp tomato purée •

2 tbsp smoked paprika 1 chicken stock cube 400g can mixed beans in water 400g can baked beans 325g can sweetcorn kernels, drained 1 tbsp Marmite 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce 1 tsp white wine vinegar Bunch spring onions, sliced

Syns per serving: FREE

Health & Beauty NEW P FRIDAY 8am & 9:30am GROU TIMES SELSTON PARISH HALL

Mansfield Rd, Selston, NG16 6EE

Sue: 07738 118 130

THURSDAY 5:30pm & 7pm SELSTON PARISH HALL Mansfield Rd, Selston, NG16 6EE

Maria: 07860 830 095

slimmingworld.co.uk slimmingworld.co.uk

#YesYouCanWithSlimmingWorld #YesYouCanWithSlimmingWorld

slimmingworld.co.uk

#YesYouCanWithSlimmingWorld

16

Don’t forget to mention Voice Magazines when responding to the Ads

HEALTH & BEAUTY

FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA @GLENDAIRDENTALPRACTICE @GLENDAIRFACES

NEW YEAR NEW YOU FOR 2024

LIMES AVENUE, ALFRETON DERBYSHIRE, DE55 7DW 01773 832164 GLENDAIRDENTAL.CO.UK

Happy New Year!

FROM ALL OF THE GLENDAIR TEAM!

PET SERVICES

THE FOOT LADY

Mobile Foot Health Specialist ANNA WILSON B.Sc Hons, MAFHP, MCFHP

£21

app per oint men t

• Ingrowing / Thick Nails • Fungal Nail Infections • Corn Removal • Hard Skin Reduction • Athlete’s Foot • Fully Insured and DBS Checked Professional treatment for those with Diabetes, Peripheral Arterial Disease, Rheumatoid Arthritis & the “High Risk” Foot.

For appointments, call Anna on:

0779 862 3109

With 30 years experience and as a qualified trainer for the Ins�tue of Modern Dog Trainers I offer science based, force free, posi�ve reinforcement training. From one to one puppy lessons to dealing with more complex behaviour issues give me a call to discuss your individual needs. I also offer Dog Walking, Pet Visits, House Si�ng and Pet Taxi services for all small animals.

Call Sco� on 07929 208507

sco�@ssw.training @sswpets

To advertise please call Voice Team on 01773 549 035

www.ssw.training

sit_stay_walkies

PetSsw

17

Homeme ents Improv 07946275835

No Problem

No Call Out Charge

Gutters Cleared We remove leaves - moss - grass - growth & debris

Photos

Before & After We do a camera survey first Go High 4 Storeys, Commercial, Schools, Hotels & Industrial

Residential

Dma.electricalservices@outlook.com

Damp & Mould Can be caused by blocked gutters

www.dmaelectrics.co.uk

Commercial

Weight & Damage Up to 50kg of debris straining your gutters

dma.electricalservices@outlook.com www.dmaelectrics.co.uk

10m

Testing

07946 275 835

Get an instant price

Excellent work, efficient and reliable and always willing to discuss the project to come up with a solution

01773 297 048

Reviews 15000 + Review

4.96 Excellent

or online gutterpro.co.uk

A Touch Of Gloss Decorators Of Distinction

IN S

N OW

New Build Specialists SYCTCATLVLING STE M S Advice / Free Quotes TV’s set up or wall mounted • Insurance Work • Storm Damage • Extra TV points • FM, DAB aerials • CCTV Systems • Wifi Extenders FREEVIEW & FREESAT INSTALLED

www.langtonaerials.com

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

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 18

Don’t forget to mention Voice Magazines when responding to the Ads

Industrial • Domestic • Commercial

✔ Partial or full rewire - landlords & domestic ✔ Electric Car charging points ✔ Experienced Electrician ✔ Testing & Inspection

01773 512 407 or 07773 433 055 rj.electrical@yahoo.co.uk • www.rj-electrics.co.uk

Sue’s Maintenance Services 1st Class HandyWoman

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

Now try the woman that CAN

01773 473 269 or 07971 774 701 www.fixitsue.com • email: enquiries@fixitsue.com

Established 1965

Digital Aerials, Freesat and Sky Multipoint

Digital Aerials, Freesat and Sky Multipoint

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

RJ ELECTRICAL COLLEDGE AERIALS • Local

• Trustworthy • Installers • Free Quotes

• All work fully guaranteed

T: 01773 742387 M: 07973 676799

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

Specialists in...

Boiler replacements and full central heating systems Installation, servicing and repairs of most domestic gas appliances

LOG BURNERS FITTED CALL RITCHIE

07837 205531

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

...plus much more!

Our quotes are free

“We do it all!”

4321

214890

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

To advertise please call Voice Team on 01773 549 035 AVVM1075 (Blakeley Builders Q).indd 1

19

08/06/2017 17:4

s ’ e k a l F s e t i r u o Fav

Re-walking Rafa’s Rambles

At this time of year, with the somewhat inclement weather, walking your dog can feel more or a chore than a pleasure. But it is so good for our dogs and our physical and mental health to get some exercise. This walk makes good use of paths and trials around King’s Mill Reservoir to provide a short but sweet walk, which is perfect in Winter.

The walk begins and ends at the Kings Mill Reservoir.

There is a good-sized car park and there is a café at the Visitors Centre. We then join the Timberland Trail which winds through to the small but pleasant Oakham Nature Reserve. From here we pick up a path alongside the River Maun as it winds back towards the reservoir.

3 1/2 MILE CIRCULAR WALK FROM KING’S MILL RESERVOIR A short walk which should take you and your dog around 2 hours to complete. The walk features a number of roads so please take care. There majority of the walk is on trails but please wear appropriate footwear and as always, please follow the countryside code.

START: KINGSMILL RESERVOIR SAILING CLUB CAR PARK, RESERVOIR ACCESS ROAD SUTTON IN ASHFIELD. NG17 4PA 1. From the car park head directly towards the reservoir and a large notice board. Upon reaching a T junction of tarmac paths with the notice board directly in front of you, turn right along the tarmac path with the reservoir on your left. After a short distance you will pass by a sign on your right reading ‘visitor centre’ and then a little further on pass by the visitor centre on your right.

2. Continue straight along the tarmac path keeping the reservoir on your left for quite

20

some distance. Follow the path until reaching a signpost, just before a bridge. At the signpost turn right and very shortly, at a junction, turn right again.

3. Follow the path up a ramp to cross over a metal bridge over the railway line. On the other side at a T-junction of paths, turn right to join the Timberland Trail.

4. Keep on this path until reaching a road. Cross straight over the road, pass by a signboard reading ‘Timberland Trail’, and then continue

Don’t forget to mention Voice Magazines when responding to the Ads

5. Continue along the path for some distance and then pass by a metal gate. keep straight ahead for a short distance. Now continue with a stone wall on your left, pass by another gate and then a house on your left. Walk gently downhill and then at the bottom of the hill, turn left through a metal width restrictor adjacent to a large metal gate onto a well laid footpath.

6. Walk straight ahead going gently uphill. At the top continue along the footpath into some trees and then bear right to descend sharply down some steps heading directly towards a lake. Turn left just in front of the lake to walk along the path until reaching a road. Turn left along the road for a very short distance and then turn right, pass through a width restrictor and along a footpath.

7. After a short distance follow the footpath to the right and then a little further on follow the path to the left. Continue for a short distance and then turn right to cross over a river bridge.

After crossing the bridge turn immediately left and then continue with the river on your left.

8. Continue straight ahead to join up with a tarmac path and then continue with a tall metal fence on your right. Keep straight ahead until reaching a road. Turn left along the road for a very short distance crossing a river and then turn right to pass through a chicane and onto a footpath.

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

straight ahead along a path. Continue until reaching another road. Cross straight over the road pass by another sign board on your left and continue straight ahead along a footpath.

9. Walk along a tarmac path with the river on your right. Pass by a fishing lake on your right and then after some distance you will continue with a chain link fence and a railway line on your right. When the chain link fence on your right ends turn sharp right to double back on yourself and then pass through a swing gate, cross over the railway line to pass through a 2nd swing gate.

10. Continue straight ahead for a short distance and then follow the path around to the left signposted for ‘Sutton in Ashfield’. After a short distance cross over a bridge and then upon reaching a stone wall directly in front of you turn right. Now continue with a stone wall and a reservoir on your left.

11. After a short distance bear slightly to the left to continue along a footpath staying close to the stone wall and passing by a notice board on your left. Continue along this path for quite some distance staying close to the reservoir on your left. Eventually you will join up with a tarmac path. Continue straight ahead until reaching a T junction of tarmac paths. Turn left, cross over a bridge, and continue with the reservoir on your left.

12. After some distance pass by a wooden gate and then a little further on pass by Sutton Sailing Club on your right. Continue until reaching the car park on your right.

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.

To advertise please call Voice Team on 01773 549 035

King’s Mill REser voir

am kh re Oa tu ve Na er s e R

Sutton -inAshfIe lD

Timberland TRail

Ma

ns

21

Fie

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.

Across 5 Disapproval, so booted Edward out (3) 6 Bristle cut at the dawning of the day (3) 10 Possesses, with a small part (3) 11 Journalists’ alternative, say, to metal cutter (7) 12 One way to be a bit fresh! (3) 16 It used to be part of Gog and Magog (3) 17 We have no grief (3) Down 2 Taste, at a slight angle (4) 3 Austria? It’s back from the atmosphere (4) 8 Bumpkin has a bit of egg left (5) 14 Pack in on the Wold? (4) 15 Vegetable ruined by leak (4) Across

Down

1

Sometimes called Jack? He’s made a bid to float (3,2,1,3)

1

Who to boast about in the sailing exhibition?

(8)

4 7

Gets ray diffraction and spins (7)

New domains created in country tipple (6,4)

13 Posh fabric prerequisite irks law providers (3,4)

5

The brigade, founded with a massive personal pump? (3,7)

18 Law, varied in attempt to hide something embarrassing (4,1,4)

9

Silent night hunter will want to yowl, strangely (5,3)

ANSWERS FOR LAST MONTHS PITHERWITS Across: 1 Back to earth, 5 Cheer up, 8 Adieu, 9 Rinse, 10 Rabbi, 12 Beset, 14 Nightly, 15 Sketch books.

Down: 1 Bad hair days, 2 Cocci, 3 Ripen, 4 Hushed tones, 6 Eluding, 7 Rarebit, 11 Binge, 13 Say-so.

22

These puzzles are devised by the brilliant Professor Rebus. For more of his puzzles visit www.pitcherwits.co.uk

Don’t forget to mention Voice Magazines when responding to the Ads

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

WINTER PACKAGE DEAL

KIMBERLEY Fireplaces Ltd

A COMPLETE LOOK FOR

£2,599.00

EPS WE LL S Y E CA MN NG 8 CHI RVICI 378 E &S 38 INFO! 9 5 E 011 R MOR O F

INCLUDING FITTING

WHAT YOU WILL GET: • Choice of 2 EcoDesign Approved 5kw Multifuel Stoves

• 316 flexible flue liner & pot hanging cowl

• Front and Inner hearths with choices in various materials and colours

• A paintable cement board chamber • A non-combusible beam in choice of finishes

• Stove pipe & register plate • Waste removal • CO2 alarm • Installation, Commissioning & HETAS certification

£2,599.00 BOOK NOW TO AVOID DISAPPOINTMENT!

CONTACT US

www.kimberley-fires-stoves.co.uk • kimberleyfireplacesandstoves@mail.com Please contact us for a FREE no obligation home visit

0115 938 3788

To advertise please call Voice Team on 01773 549 035

23

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

SUDOKU #42

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

WESTWOOD Roofing

Roofing, Maintenance & Repair EDPM Rubber Flat Roofing • Re-pointing • Chimney Repairs • Insurance Work • Drainage • Guttering • Roof Repairs

Call: 01773 784 830 All work fully guaranteed and insured. Est 25 years

24

Don’t forget to mention Voice Magazines when responding to the Ads

One of the largest showrooms in Nottinghamshire established over 30 years MODERN DESIGNS & FULLY FITTED

BESPOKE SERVICE

From supply only to full installation we offer the full package. Our experienced and knowledgeable design teams are here for you, offering a full, free of charge planning and design service. If you’re after a bathroom or kitchen we are serious about creating the best design possible to suit your budget.

Planning & Designing

Plumbing

Tiling

Joinery

Plastering

Waste Disposal

Electrics

Why not see if we can save you the VAT on your brand new Wet Room / Walk in bathroom

PHONE: 01909 500 130 EMAIL: admin@bathroomandkitchenwarehouse.net

www.bathroomandkitchenwarehouse.net

FIND OUR SHOWROOM Bathroom & Kitchen Warehouse, 50 Newcastle Avenue, Worksop, S80 1LA

To advertise please call Voice Team on 01773 549 035

25

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

Bathroom and Kitchen Warehouse

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

Mike’us sings M

Our resident muser has the mike...

Mike is always glad to hear from you at :

mike.musings@outlook.com

Part 1 of what 2024 (that’s twenty twenty four) has in store for you?

Aquarius (the Water-bearer) – 21st January to 19th February Any year is, of course, ‘The Year of Aquarius’ but if you’ve never seen the musical Hair, that comment will probably have gone straight over your water bearing head. With many climate scientists predicting that 2024 will be the warmest year ever in the history of the planet, this will provide you with the perfect opportunity to fulfil your dreams and become a naturist.

Pisces (the Fish) – 20th February to 20th March

Taurus (the Bull) – 21st April – 21st May 2023 was, for many Taureans, a year to forget. Recent research has shown that a high proportion of those born under this sign had difficulty in ‘getting on with things.’

They were uncharacteristically lethargic and prone to needing a nap at any time of the day. NB – did that make them bulldozers? However, all Taureans can now take comfort from the development of a new energy drink specifically created for you. In 2024, drink lots of Red Bull and you’ll have a much livelier year.

Whilst in the past, you may have been viewed in accordance with your star sign as a bit of a ‘wet’ fish, the next twelve months will be different. You are expected to become much more assertive. For example, you will finally tell your next-door neighbour that if she doesn’t stop playing Shakin’ Stevens loudly every single night, you will counter by turning the volume up to 11 every time you put on your favourite Jimmy Shand LP. NB – you may, of course, have to explain what an LP is.

Gemini (the Twins) – 22nd May to 21st June

Aries (the Ram) – 21st March – 20th April

Cancerians currently working, can look forward to a change of job in 2024. This will not necessarily be a promotion but, as one would expect given the established Zodiacal principles linked to their star sign, is more likely to be a sideways move.

2023 was a bad year for all those with an affinity to sheep. The loss of top scorer David McGoldrick to Notts County was a particularly devastating blow. However, the New Year will begin with encouraging signs that better times lie ahead, and with the moon aligning with Saturn over Pride Park in mid-February, all Rams can look forward to, at the very least, a play-off push.

Known for their wit and quick thinking, this bodes well for all Geminis, as over the next twelve months opportunities will arise allowing them to make full use of these attributes. Some can look forward to performing at the Edinburgh Fringe in August, some will stand as candidates in the 2024 General Election. Sadly however, others will lose their jobs as a result of insubordination.

Cancer (the Crab) – 22nd June to 23rd July

With apologies to all those with birthdays between 24th July and 20th January, your predictions for 2024 will be revealed next month.

26

Don’t forget to mention Voice Magazines when responding to the Ads

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

BUSINESS EST SINCE 2015

Considering changing your bathroom? VISIT our SHOWROOM IN RIDDINGS for inspiration & expert advice • Shower rooms & Ensuites • Bathroom Furniture & Storage

COME & SEE OUR UPDATED DISPLAYS

• Easy Access Bathrooms • Tiles, Mirrors & Taps • Full Bathroom Suites • Space Saving Ideas OUR SHOWROOM IS OPEN TO GR EEN HIL

MIL

L LA

NE

METRO BATHROOMS

16

COAL CHAR ILL GR

B60

THE N LIO RED

AD A RO

NE

DLE

L LA

WIN

GRE

WS S HA

TR E

ET

TRADE & PUBLIC

ENH ILL LAN E

SERVICE THE TRADE AS WELL AS PUBLIC

OPENING TIMES MON - THURS 9AM - 4PM

www.metrobathrooms.co.uk

Tel: 01773 318 008 • Email: info@metrobathrooms.co.uk

Unit 1, Windmill Business Park (off Greenhill Lane), Mill Lane, Riddings, DE55 4DB (opposite Windlea Road) To advertise please call Voice onThurs 01773 549 035 Opening Hours:Team Mon to - 9:00am until 4:00pm

27

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

Living Made Easy with Bathroom Adaptations Family-run business established 20 years

Workmanship Lifetime Guarantee Walk-in showers Walk-in baths Anti-slip flooring Custom made for people with mobility issues Beautiful bathroom designs Free CAD drawing on every enquiry Wall panelling options

Concessions for over 60’s, Derbyshire Gold Card members and NHS T&Cs: † Calls to our 0800 0855 518 number are free from all UK based landlines & mobiles.

Call freephone† 0800 08 555 18 Or book online: 28

Don’t forget to mention Voice Magazines when responding to the Ads

Electrical Services Rewires, Extra Sockets, Lights, Fault Finding, Inspection & Testing, Etc. • Consumer Unit Upgrades • Landlord Reports Call Ian for a FREE no obligation quote on

Tel : 01773 306 460 Mob : 07549 617 536

BOOK REVIEW

01773 302 230

www.stone-security.co.uk

Alarm & CCTV Specialists • Full alarm system service £65 with 12 months call-out cover • Brand new alarm systems from £549 fitted • CCTV systems from £649 fitted • Older systems upgraded, faults fixed • Any existing system adopted regardless who fitted it

• Video door bells

Email: iwilsonelectrical@gmail.com

M1338 (Ian Wilson Electrical Q Advert).indd 1

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

Ian Wilson

MAKE SURE YOUR HOME IS SECURE CALL JONATHAN GEE NOW!

MY NAME IS LUCY BARTON - ELIZABETH STROUT 15/02/2018 15:28

Elizabeth Strout has two much loved main characters in her novels. In Booker prize shortlisted Oh William! she returns to the woman we first meet in My Name is Lucy Barton.

Lucy, who comes from “terrible bleak poverty” is now a successful writer in New York. A recent widow, she reconnects with the William of the title, her first husband and long-time friend.

This is a subtle and complex picture of long term relationships, of family secrets which change so much in our lives when

they become known, of the way our roots and childhood shape us for the rest of our lives, no matter how much we think we’re controlling our own destiny.

It’s written very simply, not in a “writerly” way, but that’s deliberate and deceptive and the book has real depths. Elizabeth Strout is a great storyteller, revealing so much through little things and showing Lucy as a vulnerable but uncrushable character, who at the same time is a very ordinary human being.

An absorbing and thoughtful story, but also a good read.

To advertise please call Voice Team on 01773 549 035

29

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

FIRST 4 FASCIAS Bargeboard First• Dry Verge 01623•459891 •Fascias Fascias • Soffit • Guttering

• Cladding • Repair Work Undertaken

07738 227029 - 07921 081676 www.first4fascias.co.uk

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

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

D S&D

&

S

First

Roofing & Dry Fascias Verge Specialists Roofi ng & Dry AVVM0772 (First 4 Fascias Q Advert).indd 1

08/11/2016 01

Verge Specialists

NEW ROOFS FLAT ROOFS RUBBER ROOFS ROOF REPAIRS ROOFS FLAT ROOFS FASCIASNEW & SOFFITS DRY VERGE SYSTEMS RUBBER ROOFS ROOF REPAIRS CHIMNEYS GUTTERS & DOWNPIPES FASCIAS & SOFFITS DRY VERGE SYSTEMS RIDGE TILES CLADDING CHIMNEYS GUTTERS &ALL DOWNPIPES WORK IS

RIDGE required TILES CLADDINGGUARANTEED! ALL WORK IS  No deposit GUARANTEED!  No payment un�l work finished & sa�sfi ed  No deposit required No payment un�l work finished & sa�sfied  Local  family run business & fully insured  Local family run business & fully insured  References available  References available  We guarantee to beat any wri�en quote

 We guarantee to beat any wri�en quote Please callPlease FREEPHONE 0800 747747 1902 call FREEPHONE 0800 1902 or 01623 for a no obliga� on quote FREE no quote or 859932 01623 859932 for a noobligation obliga� on quote Unit F2, Concept 360, Chadburn House, Unit F2, Concept 360, Chadburn House, Weighbridge Road, eld.

Mansfi eld. NG18 Weighbridge Road, Mansfi NG18 1AH 1AH 30Untitled-1 1

Untitled-1 1

Suitable for Both New Build and Refurbished Projects

Suitable for Both New Build and Refurbished Projects

BEFORE

AFTER

Fascias - Soffits

BEFORE

AFTER

08/06/2022 09:31:35

08/06/2022 09:31:35 Don’t forget to mention Voice Magazines when responding to the Ads

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

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

Charity number: 700636

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

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 Boiler & Controls Cover, Includes Annual Service

£40.81††

(+£60 excess with gas fire) (Homecare 300)

£33.00†† (Homecare 100)

£20.50††

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

FlameCare (per month**)

FlameCare Over 60s (per month**)

£25.95

£22.95

£19.95

£17.95

£13.95

£12.95

was £27.95

was £21.95

was £16.95

was £24.95

was £19.95

was £14.95

Why Choose FlameCare?

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.

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. **Prices shown are inclusive of VAT. † † Prices correct as of 01-01-21.

Third-party prices may vary.

To advertise please call Voice Team on 01773 549 035

31

NEW YEAR, NEW ME… SERIOUSLY? Ah, the New Year—a time when we boldly declare our intentions to become the best versions of ourselves. Then realise that maybe, just maybe, the sofa, a bar of chocolate, and a good book are more appealing.

Let’s go on a comical journey through the land of resolutions, where good intentions meet reality, and the gym membership card hides in shame.

First up, the fitness frenzy. January 1st marks the grand opening of the “Gym of Good Intentions,” where so many of us transform into temporary fitness gurus. Fast forward to February, and the gym resembles a desert island, with tumbleweeds rolling across the abandoned yoga mats.

Then there’s the kale conspiracy. Every year, kale emerges as the superhero of resolutions—a leafy green beacon of health. We (try to) convince ourselves that kale crisps are a tasty alternative to regular potato ones, only to realise that, in reality, they taste more like disappointment seasoned with regret.

And don’t get me started on dropping the carbs, it simply isn’t possible to go through life without potatoes, bread, and cake…is it? I mean maybe cutback a little, but a roast dinner without roasties and Yorkshire puds is simply unthinkable.

run, or gym workout in the cold, when there’s the cosy warmth of bed?

Those mindset “gurus” have a lot to answer for.

Resolutions are like fine wine—they take time to get right, need a lot of patience to perfect, and there will be spills and along the way. So, whether you’re chasing fitness dreams, embracing kale with a smile (or a grimace), or attempting to befriend your alarm clock, remember: the laughter shared in the pursuit of these resolutions is the true reward.

If you are going to set yourself some resolutions for 2024, don’t beat yourself up if you don’t succeed at the first attempt. Rome wasn’t built in a day, and you (and me!) won’t magically transform into svelte, fit, catwalk models simply because we make a few promises to ourselves on January 1st.

Finish the chocolate, eat the cakes, snuggle under your duvet – Spring is a much better time to start something new!

The battle of the bulge extends to the fridge. The New Year brings forth a wave of health-conscious shopping and we stock our fridges with loads of veggies. However, amidst the sea of greens, the leftover Christmas chocolate strategically hides, waiting for the midnight cravings. The quest for a healthier lifestyle becomes a game of hide-andseek with the hidden treats.

And let’s not forget those who pledge to become early birds in order to conquer the world – or at least their corner of it. The plan is flawless, set the alarm for 5am, meditate, go on a run, make a healthy breakfast etc, etc. But many of them will quickly become best friends with the snooze button, realising that their inner night owl is not so easily tamed. After all, who needs the morning

32

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.

Don’t forget tovisitmention Voice Magazines responding to the Ads To find out more www.word-witch.co.uk or contact Laurawhen on 07736 351 341

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

Replacement Glass Units Glass Units • Misted Faulty Locks/Handles/Hinges Locks/Handles • Broken Prices from Hinges • Faulty Composite Doors Doors • Composite UPVC Windows & Doors • Conservatories • Porches & Conservatories UPVC/Aluminium & windows plus VAT doors anddoors windows • UPVC

£35

WE REPAIR OR REPLACE! WE REPAIR OR REPLACE!

Call us today on: 0115 8377229 Email:

Gardens 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

NEW 13FT UNBANDED SCAFFOLD BOARDS SALE 3.9m x 225mm x 38mm Ideal for:

Decking Shelves Planters Tables Raised beds

WAS £16 NOW £14!

PROMPT DELIVERY Contact Kevin at KS Timber on 07919 273 909

To advertise please call Voice Team on 01773 549 035

33

GARDENS

34

Don’t forget to mention Voice Magazines when responding to the Ads

GARDENS

Four Winds Landscaping

Local family run business providing a friendly reliable service that guarantees quality. quality Fully insured and with years of experience, experience we provide a wide range of landscaping and garden maintenance services for both domestic and commercial proper ties, ties everything from cutting grass or removing trees to landscaping large building projects.

GROUNDS MAINTANENCE: • Lawn Mowing • Cutting Banks • Edging & Strimming • Lawn Care • Bed Planting • Weed Control • Tree Surgery • Stump Removal • Hedge Cutting, Reduction & Removal • LANDSCAPING: • Driveways • Patios • Pathways • Fencing • Sleeper Beds • Turfing • Planting • Ponds We offer a FREE NO OBLIGATION quote service!

For more info T: 07506 797 978 or

E: info@fourwindslandscaping.co.uk

Gardener’s Calendar

There’s truly not lots to do in January in the garden, beyond cleaning tools and pots and leafing through garden catalogues with a mug of something hot in your hand.

But if you do want to brave the elements there’s a few tasks to keep you warm. Prune your apple and pears if you haven’t done so already, plant bare root roses, prune overgrown honeysuckle back hard, deadhead flowering winter pansies so they don’t set seed and give up the ghost.

If you have any forgotten tulips in a bag in the depths of the greenhouse they will probably put on a decent show even if you plant them now – so long as you can get them into frozen ground!

Try not to walk on frozen lawns as it can damage grass.

Top Tip:

If you have a heated greenhouse or propagator you can sow lobelia and begonias and pelargoniums now, but make sure there’s some ventilation so they don’t get damped off. Paraffin heaters can produce a lot of moisture which can be too much for tender shoots.

Feed the birdies. Fruits berries, mealworms, suet pellets or fat balls. All high energy content. Bread is not the best idea. But a water bowl is. Dirty feathers lose a lot of their insulation so a clean bird is a warm bird.

To advertise please call Voice Team on 01773 549 035

35

GARDENS

NATURE NOTES FROM THE PEAK DISTRICT

WINTER BIRDS FLOCK TO THE GARDEN FEEDERS By early December, the cold weather had tipped large numbers of smaller birds towards the garden feeders. A combination of the reduction of the autumnal glut of fruit and berries in hedgerows and woodland edge, means our garden feeders assume a greater importance.

Furthermore, this is where feeding the birds in the summertime really pays dividends because the birds immediately know where to come. The young birds from this year’s garden broods of blue tits and great tits, are already hard-wired to recall where those easy supplies of sunflower seeds, fatballs, and peanuts are to be found. From August through to late October, the numbers of visiting birds certainly dropped as foraging mixed flocks of titmice or of finches roamed the wider countryside.

But since early November, the garden visiting has increased dramatically. In my own case, we have had flocks of around thirty blue tits and good numbers too of great tits and coal tits, alongside the occasional long-tailed tit.

This is all good to see and the party has been joined by finches too, with chaffinches, goldfinches, and now, good numbers of greenfinches. The latter is great to see back, with ten or more visiting at once. This is a species which declined sharply due to a nasty disease probably in part spread through dirty garden feeders causing infection. Absent where I am for about ten years, they are now back, and several pairs bred here last summer. In these days of so much doom and gloom in the news, it is nice to have even small things to celebrate!

The smaller birds are joined by some larger ones too such as the now super-abundant woodpigeon and the stunning, ring-necked parakeet. The former hoover up any seed scattered on the ground or falling from hanging feeders and have even taken to trying an assault on the feeders directly. However, being large and cumbersome, they do struggle with nut-holders, fat-balls, and hanging seed dispensers.

The parakeets on the other hand are amongst the cleverest and most adept of our garden birds.

These are spreading across the region from the first recorded sightings back in the 1980s. They feed on peanut holders and sunflower seed, but simply love spiked apples on the feeders. These are also favoured foods of blackbirds and other thrushes such as fieldfares and mistletoe thrushes.

However, blue tits, coal tits, and great tits also relish the apples.

Another wintertime treat for the birds comes in the form of dried mealworms. The robins love these and become very tame if they are offered regularly. But the other bird to really benefit from the mealworms is the starling. I have spherical wire holders which are filled with small suet pellets and dried mealworms, and these are attracting flocks of twenty or more starlings at any one time. Bearing in mind that this was a bird under threat just a few years ago, and this is quite remarkable; hopefully, another once declining species now on the up.

GREENFINCH

GOLDFINCH

GREAT TIT GREAT TIT

BLUE TIT

WOOD PIGEON

RING-NECKED PARKEET

Professor Ian D. Rotherham, researcher, writer, broadcaster on wildlife and environmental issues in the Peak District and elsewhere, is contactable on ianonthewildside@ukeconet.org. Follow his website 36 www.ukeconet.org, Don’t forget to mention Voice Magazines when responding to the Ads blog www.ianswalkonthewildside.wordpress.com/ & Twitter @IanThewildside

GARDENS

To advertise please call Voice Team on 01773 549 035

37

GARDENS

Does your septic tank need an empty?

Call MPC Services to arrange an empty, service or clean for your tank!

01773 767 612

Save £££ on electricity by upgrading your air compressor

Let our team know that you heard about us in THE VOICE when you book for your chance to WIN one of 10 ANNUAL DOMESTIC SERVICES - excl. parts & tanker, terms and conditions apply, valid until end DEC 2024

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. *Energy saving based on simply changing your traditional 85W air blower for a modern efficient FujiMAC 47W Japanese one, with electricity at 55p/kWh, for no loss of performance. Additional efficiency savings are typically possible.

Ask us about:

MPC Services (UK) Ltd

✓ Annual maintenance, call-outs or repairs ✓ Tank emptying ✓ Any bad smells, noises or other sewage issues ✓ Property transactions & compliance

1 Heanor Gate Rd, Derbyshire, DE75 7RJ

enquiries@mpcservices.co.uk www.mpcservices.co.uk

DRB

Company Reg No. 0608117

HARRIS FENCING

T: 07832 953 612

Waste Recycling

paulharrisfencing@gmail.com

Household, garden, general building and waste metal removal.

Household clearance and removals.

Cost effective alternative to skip hire.

FENCING BESPOKE GATES TREE STUMP GRINDING/REMOVAL

Household Waste

Metal Waste

Clearance & Removals

Garden Waste

Call Dale on

07581 450572 Licensed Waste Carrier

38

Please contact Paul for a free no obligation quote!

Find us on Facebook Harris Fencing Derbyshire

Don’t forget to mention Voice Magazines when responding to the Ads

VM0862 (Dale Beuford Waste Recycling Q Advert).indd 1

20/01/2017 05:37

GARDENS

THE LITTLE RED HEN HOUSE NORTHUMBERLAND STUNNING HOLIDAY COTTAGE IN WARKWORTH, NORTHUMBERLAND Treat yourself to a luxury break at the 4* Gold Award winning Little Red Hen House. An elegant and cosy holiday home just a 7 minute drive from award-winning and dog-friendly Warkworth beach.

*SALE* PRICES REDUCED ON 2024 BOOKINGS! *SALE*

✽ 2 spacious en-suite bedrooms ✽ A fully enclosed garden ✽ 2 small to medium dogs welcome

(3 upon request)

✽ Fully equipped kitchen, including an

American style fridge freezer

✽ Perfect for exploring the stunning

Northumbrian Heritage Coastline

✽ Close to a range of dog friendly pubs,

cafes and restaurants in stunning Warkworth

✽ We have fast fibre Wi-Fi and smart TV’s

Search ‘The Little Red Hen House’ at:

www.coquetcottages.co.uk

To advertise please call Voice Team on 01773 549 035

39

GARDENS

40

Don’t forget to mention Voice Magazines when responding to the Ads