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16-PAGE SPECIAL!

Christmas GIFT GUIDE

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To all our readers

Rocking on... nearly half a century on

Rotarians celebrate a centenary

WHAT’S ON, FASHION, FOOD, ANTIQUES, HISTORY, ART AND MORE!

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Derbyshire’s largest-circulation lifestyle magazine CHESTERFIELD–DRONFIELD–MATLOCK–BAKEWELL AND SURROUNDING AREAS

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CONTENTS

December 2022 58

14,30,56,76 Countywide News All that’s been happening across the county in words and pictures 16 Reminders of how Derbyshire kick-started The Industrial Revolution Patrick Coleman selects the finest mills and other reminders of why the county was the birthplace of that revolution 22 Crossword Apologies for messing it up last month – we think we have it right this time! 24 The county’s own ‘Rock of Ages’… Fiona Stubbs meets local rock legends Saracen – still captivating their faithful followers while discovering new fans around the globe

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54 Fashion: be fabulously festive this season! Yes, the Christmas party season is back, so it’s time to shine, says our style guru Amy Norbury 58 Please help us select our 2022 winner We want you to select a 1-2-3 from the impressive photographs of finalists in this year’s ‘Derbyshire In Focus’ competition – and let us know by December 7, 2022 62 Forget the festival fireworks – it’s ‘metal birds’ from now on… The boss of one of the nation’s biggest pyrotechnic companies is concentrating on his artwork from now on. Barrie Farnsworth reports

36 Christmas Gift Guide Yes, it’s just around the corner! We’ve handpicked a superb selection of gifts from local outlets to cover the lengthiest of present lists!

66 Official files on ‘The Crooked Spire Killings’ remain sealed – 60 years on Alan Hurndall, a Dronfield journalist, has written about two horrific local murders in the Sixties – and the official ‘wall of silence’ he faced over the cases

52 Winter tips from the woods… Claire Lyons, of the Woodland Burial Company, offers some great tips to help your garden over the winter months

68 Out & About This month’s walk starts in Shatton, then passes Offerton Hall before a return along the Derwent riverbank To advertise call 01246 550488

CONTENTS

54 62

72 A local club celebrates its centenary in style! President Paul Davies looks back at 100 years of the Chesterfield Rotary Club

77 36

74 Antiques Corner Our expert valuer Vivienne Milburn takes a close look at silver filigree jewellery 77 Focus on Food & Drink Our recipe of the month is the easiest – and tastiest – Christmas dessert you will ever create! 78 What’s On

REFLECTIONS MAGAZINE DECEMBER 2022 Editor: Barrie Farnsworth, barrief@bannisterpublications.co.uk Advertising: Mike Snow, mikes@bannisterpublications.co.uk Managing Director/Art Director/Photographer: Robert Bannister, robert@bannisterpublications.com Art Editor: Ben Fletcher-Bates, design@reflections-magazine.com Accounts: Jenny Kelly, jennyk@bannisterpublications.co.uk Published by: Bannister Publications Ltd. Tel. 01246 550 488 (3 lines). 118 Saltergate, Chesterfield, Derbyshire S40 1NG. Reflections is published monthly and delivered directly to homes which fall into tax bands D to H and the following postcode areas: DE4 - 2, 3, 4, 5 / DE45 1 / S18 5 / S30 1 / S40 - 1, 2, 3, 4 / S41 0, S41 7, 8, 9 / S42 - 5, 6, 7 / S43 - 1, 2, 3 / S45 0, S45 9. All Rights Reserved: Reproduction in whole or in part without written consent is strictly prohibited. The publishers do not accept responsibility for any views expressed, or statements made, in signed contributions or in those reproduced from any other source. No responsibility is borne for any errors made in any advertisement, or for incorrect claims made by any advertiser. The publishers reserve the right to refuse any advertising deemed unsuitable for any reason. All material submitted for publication is done so at the owner’s risk and no responsibility is accepted for its return. Reflections Magazine, Bannister Publications Ltd.

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NATIONAL RECOGNITION FOR ROSEWOOD WEALTH MANAGEMENT Rosewood Wealth Management recently received recognition from Bankhall, a national provider of regulatory compliance support within the financial services industry. Winning the Best Small Adviser of the Year 2022, Rosewood was proud and delighted to accept the award, which was based on commitment to compliant advice, commitment in delivering the best outcome for clients and feedback from file reviews and compliance visits to the office. A crucial element of Rosewood’s ethos is continuous improvement with a holistic commitment to process driven efficiencies. Having undergone a recent certification audit, Rosewood has been accredited with ISO 9001 evidencing their commitment to a quality management

system along with ISO 14001 demonstrating commitment to reducing their impact on the environment. These global accreditations mean that any current or potential client has peace of mind that they are dealing with a company that has high quality standards embedded within their operating methods and company culture.

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T 01246 932 300 E info@rosewoodwealth.co.uk

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Countywide News

Protection for medieval bridge A MAJOR project in Matlock is now approaching completion, providing protection from flooding and preserving an ancient 13th century bridge. In February, a large section of the flood defence wall in Matlock collapsed, putting the safety of residents, business owners and tourists at risk. In June, work to reinstate the flood protection got underway, which involved making major alterations and safety improvements to Matlock Bridge over the River Derwent. Also known as Derwent Bridge, the Grade II-listed ‘scheduled monument’ is situated in a conservation area and parts of the bridge date back to the mid-13th century. Asset VRS was selected by Jackson Civil Engineering to install a suitable vehicle restraint system on the bridge, as part of the Environment Agency scheme. As well as protecting pedestrians using the bridge, the barriers also needed to be in-keeping with the character of Matlock. Asset VRS’s experts assessed the site and recommended the installation of its galvanised steel Varioguard barriers. The barriers are now in place, protecting the medieval bridge parapets and providing a safe walkway for pedestrians. The final stages of the project are likely to be carried out in spring 2023.

Christmas appeal AMID the cost-of-living crisis, local company Bridge Help is urging local businesses to dig deep and donate to its annual Christmas collection for 14 Reflections December 2022

Chesterfield Foodbank. Launched in 2020, Bridge Help’s annual fundraising appeal has enabled the commercial finance company to donate more than £5,500 of food and toiletries to Chesterfield Foodbank. Bridge Help is inviting people to donate either money or non-perishable food and toiletries. The annual appeal is organised by Phoebe Sellars, who is a business development manager at Bridge Help as well as a trustee of Chesterfield Citizens Advice in her spare time. Chesterfield Foodbank has seen a rise in demand this year which has resulted in the opening of an additional centre in Hasland. Donations to the Bridge Help Chesterfield Foodbank Appeal can be made until December 16. You can drop off donations at Bridge Help’s offices on Old Brick Works Lane, off Sheffield Road. Just call ahead to arrange a drop-off time. If you would like to make a donation, call Phoebe on 0333 303 4681.

A second novel… CHESTERFIELDBORN writer P T Mellors has published his second novel, Foolsmeadow Days, as part of his Goodman trilogy of mystery crime thrillers. It feature the circumstances surrounding the sale of a hill farm in what readers may recognise as part of the Peak District. It is a tale of a man’s ill-fated attempt to do his sister a favour by looking after the farm for her for a few days while she takes a holiday. The paperback is published by the Book Guild Ltd and retails at £10.99, ISBN 978 1915352 378. It is also available as an e-book.

Is your home fit for the future? PRIVATE homeowners across Derbyshire are invited to take part in a public consultation to say what support they need to make their homes more energy efficient. Derbyshire County Council and the eight borough and district councils in the county have launched the consultation. Steps people could take to make their homes more energy efficient include measures such as double glazing, loft insulation, solar panels and switching from a gas boiler to an

air or ground source heat pump. To take part in the consultation, visit www.derbyshire.gov.uk/futurehomes Closing date is January 20, 2023. For information about the existing support available for private homeowners on low incomes, and private landlords, contact the Warmer Derby and Derbyshire helpline for free on 0800 677 1332 or email wdd@mea.org.uk

Part with a pound A LEADING youth charity is appealing to people to part with a pound to make a difference to the lives of local young people who need it the most. Proceeds from YHA’s Christmas Raffle, which has a first prize of £3,000, will go towards ensuring that no child misses out on the transformative power of a residential school trip. With the cost of living rising, more and more families and schools are being forced to cancel school trips away. For many children, particularly those from low-income families, that means they miss out on the chance for their first night away from home to bond with their peers and make lasting memories. Raffle tickets cost just £1 and, as well as the first prize of £3,000, there are also a number of runner-up cash and voucher prizes available. The raffle closes on Friday, December 9, with all winners receiving their cash and prizes in time for Christmas. Previous raffles by Matlock-based YHA (England & Wales) have funded breaks for 1,800 vulnerable young people, and NHS and frontline workers and their families, as well as respite breaks for young carers and the installation of life-saving defibrillators in its hostels. To purchase tickets for the YHA Christmas Raffle, go to https://getinvolved. yha.org.uk/fundraising/raffle/

Can you help? FANCY using your 4x4 vehicle to help your local community when the white stuff lands? Well, that is just what members of Derbyshire 4x4 Response do! If you want to get involved, now is the time to get in touch, as once the snow falls the responders are too busy to take on new members. Not got a 4x4? Not a problem, as there are support roles available, such as controllers (dispatch). The group meets once a month, both socially and for training. For more information, contact our membership secretary, Mike, on 01332 498814 or email membership@d4x4r.co.uk To advertise call 01246 550488

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DERBYSHIRE’S FINEST

REMINDERS OF HOW DERBYSHIRE KICK-STARTED

THE INDUSTRIAL REVOLUTION DERBYSHIRE WAS THE BIRTHPLACE OF THE INDUSTRIAL REVOLUTION – AND PATRICK COLEMAN SELECTS HIS FINEST MILLS AND OTHER REMINDERS OF HOW THE COUNTY KICK-STARTED THAT REVOLUTION.

T might seem an odd choice to begin a list of Derbyshire’s finest industrial sites with a mill that sits over 3,000 miles away across the Atlantic Ocean. But few places illustrate just how important our county was to the worldwide Industrial Revolution like Slater Mill in Rhode Island, USA. Samuel Slater, who had worked in the cotton industry since the age of ten, began building this water-powered textile mill on the banks of the Blackstone River in Pawtucket in 1789. It was the first waterpowered cotton spinning mill in North America, and so successful did it prove that its design was quickly replicated throughout the Blackstone Valley. From there, it began to spread across the United States, stimulating ever-greater innovations. The “Rhode Island System” of textile production kicked-off the Industrial Revolution in America, a process that would end up turning the country into the pre-eminent world superpower, with the result that Samuel Slater is now known as the “Father of the American Industrial Revolution”, while his mill became the

Slater Mill in Rhode Island, USA, built by ‘Slater the Traitor’ from Belper! first site placed on the US National Register of Historic Places and was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1966. All well and good, but what’s that got to do with Derbyshire, you might well ask?

Jedediah Strutt’s Belper North Mill, built in 1803 and one of the world’s oldest iron-framed “fire-proof” buildings.

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The fact is that the “Rhode Island System” that sparked American industrialisation was actually a carbon copy of the ‘Derwent Valley System’ of mills developed in the county. Slater Mill itself was a replica of Richard Arkwright’s Cromford Mill. And Samuel Slater himself was born in Belper! So, I’m claiming Slater Mill for Derbyshire! It’s no secret that Derbyshire was the birthplace of the Industrial Revolution, an international economic earthquake without parallel in human history since the invention of farming in the Late Stone Age. It affected the lives of nearly every person on the planet, for better or worse, and gave us the modern world in which we live. The factory system invented by the textile industry in Derbyshire spread the world over, despite efforts at the time to protect the innovations (Samuel Slater himself became known in Belper as ‘Slater the Traitor’ for having memorised the systems used by Jedediah Strutt, and upping sticks

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DERBYSHIRE’S FINEST

Masson Mill at Matlock Bath was the largest of all Arkwright’s mills. several other mills on the Derwent too. to America to make his own fortune). Yet In Matlock Bath, Masson Mill was sited these innovations would always have near to Willersley Castle, the house that spread, such was their potential. It’s for the knighted Sir Richard was building for that reason that the United Nations cultural himself as a mark of his success. Masson agency has designated the Derwent Valley was the largest of all Arkwright’s mills, Mills a World Heritage Site, and why the with six floors and ambitious architecture rest of this list of finest industrial sites are including Venetian-style windows. all to be found right here in Derbyshire. And it was not only the textile sector Cromford Mill was the world’s first that grew during the revolution. Its success successful water-powered cotton spinning was greatly assisted by the growth of mill. In was built in the 1770s by Sir Richard older industries. Always Arkwright, with the a centre for the mining backing of his associate of lead and coal, the Jedediah Strutt, and “Remnants of the expansion of Derbyshire’s instigated the modern booming metal mines was unprecedented factory system. It during the ‘revolution’ housed new machinery industry can be years. Remnants of the that gave birth to the found all over the booming metal industry mass production of landscape.” can be found all over goods – such as the the landscape. One of water-powered spinning the most outstanding frames patented by survivals can be found at Stone Edge, Arkwright – and a labour force that found where a lead smelting works once itself working in strange new ways, such stood, and where a towering chimney as “to the clock”; in varying “shifts”; dating from the 1770s still stands. and including “night work”; in order to Industrialisation was also stimulated by produce cotton non-stop. Today the mill is the creation of canals, with Britain being a tourist attraction where you can learn all the first country to provide a nationwide about the transition from hand-making to canal system for the speedier movement of machine making and how it helped create goods. Derbyshire native James Brindley the modern economy. Arkwright built

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Chesterfield Canal, opened in 1777, allowed merchandise to be transported on an unprecedented scale. Courtesy of Chesterfield Canal Trust. helped engineer the “Golden Age of Canals” (circa 1770s-1830s), and the opening of Chesterfield Canal in 1777 meant that little over ten years later, merchandise was being transported on an unprecedented scale: 42,000 tons of coal, along with thousands of tones of lead, iron, stone and more was recorded moving along the canal in 1789. Opportunity begat opportunity: in 1793, while constructing the new Cromford Canal, William Jessop discovered veins of iron ore and coal. This resulted in the creation of the

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DERBYSHIRE’S FINEST

William Newton of Cressbrook Mill may have built housing and a school for his workforce, but he was also known for beating child workers until they bled. Butterley Company, the largest coal and iron business in the East Midlands, which provided iron for the building of Vauxhall Bridge over the Thames in London in 1814. But despite the unparalleled growth of mining, the Industrial Revolution is truly defined by its new manufacturing processes and factory system. It was in Derbyshire that these defining changes began, the transition from hand power to machine power – to water and

steam – was pioneered in the county’s new mechanised factories, and so most of our finest industrial sites must surely be the surviving textile mills. The Derwent Valley Mills UNESCO Site stretches from north Derbyshire right down to Derby, home of the Silk Mill (Lombe’s Mill), now the Museum of Making. The first successful mill was built here by John and Thomas Lombe between 1718 and 1722. It stood as the prototype for

A lead smelting works once stood at Stone Edge, where a chimney dating from the 1770s still stands.

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Arkwright’s mill at Cromford, and actually predates the period we traditionally term the Industrial Revolution (c.1760s-1840s), which just goes to show how ahead of the curve Derbyshire really was. The Lombe brothers greatly expanded upon similar small-scale techniques that John had witnessed while working in Italy, creating a booming silk trade that soon competed with Italian merchants; it’s rumoured that the King of Sardinia sent an assassin to poison John Lombe, who died mysteriously at the height of his success. Indeed, industrial espionage began pretty much as soon as industry. Samuel ‘the traitor’ Slater had once been apprenticed to Jedediah Strutt at Belper, also home to one of the World Heritage mills, and another of Derbyshire’s finest. Belper North Mill, or Strutt’s North Mill, is one of the world’s oldest iron-framed “fire-proof” buildings, having replaced the original structure which burned down – a perpetual hazard for cotton mills – in 1803. Each floor housed different stages of the cotton-making process, founded upon Arkwright’s spinning frames. In Belper, you can also find rows of houses built by the Strutts as homes for their workers. The houses – like similar ones built by Richard Arkwright at Cromford – were of a quality far exceeding those of the homes of most of the working classes in England. But, of course, it shouldn’t be ignored that for all the benevolence, all the benefits that industry brought to society – as well as wealth to industrialists – there was much suffering too. Mass production of

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DERBYSHIRE’S FINEST goods changed the world, but often came at the expense of a workforce which found itself thrust into what William Blake famously dubbed the “dark satanic mills”. Wages were often poor, so poor that strikes soon broke out and even, in 1817, an uprising by impoverished labourers around Pentrich; the episode ended with the hanging of its leaders. Conditions in mills could also be horrendous. Litton Mill, set up by Thomas Frith and Elias Needham on the River Wye in 1782, became infamous for its harsh treatment of apprentices. One worker, a London orphan named Robert Blincoe, described his experiences at Litton from 1803-14 in a sensational memoir, subtitled “an Orphan Boy sent from the Workhouse of St Pancras, London, at seven years of age, to endure the Horrors of a Cotton Mill… with a minute detail of his sufferings, being the first memoir of the kind published”. In it, Blincoe details the lack of food and sleep, along with sixteen-hour working days. Litton Mill today is a newer building (1874) but a walk there will reveal some of the isolation that workers in the early 19th Century must also have endured. Even the supposedly more benevolent industrialists like William Newton of nearby Cressbrook

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Litton Mill, set up on the River Wye in 1782, became infamous for its harsh treatment of apprentices. Mill could be shockingly violent towards their child workers. Newton was known as the “Minstrel of the Peak” for his poetry, and built housing and a school for his workforce. Yet he was also known for beating children until they bled. Thus, our finest industrial sites stand both as monuments to ingenuity, but also as important reminders of just what human beings are willing to do to other human beings in the name of ‘progress’. As much as we celebrate the historic nature of what our industrial sites achieved, it should

not be forgotten that many people, whose names are now forgotten, experienced torturous years to ensure their success. A famous saying goes that “those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it”. And indeed, our own society’s current Technological Revolution – originating not in the Derwent Valley, but in Silicon Valley in California – is led by companies accused of pretty poor treatment of their workforces today. As another saying goes, “history never repeats itself, but it does often rhyme”.

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6 7

24 25

Across 1

Carelessly unbox the end product in a spa town (6) 3 Norm to revolve around NE village (6) 7 Even the ancient Hebrews had a way to make beer! (4) 9 A raven to peck away in one of our caves (4,6) 12 Panto, performed at the end of August in Chesterfield (6) 14 Drab well-dressing in this town? (8) 16 Oz city South of Derby? (9) 18 Mailshot to Peak District village (4) 20 Metaphor, neatly trimmed by the old 'phone' (4) 21 A tiff over avid sworn statement (9) 25 Earplug? Listen, it's just a bit of fruit! (4) 26 Behaviour that finally belongs to us (3) 27 Aim to be a crooked part of 'The Parish' in Chesterfield? (6) 29 Charts the course of a stiffener (6) 31 Part-furnished tea store (3) 32 Distant from some of the tea farmers (4) 33 Tenor quietly composing in S Derby school (6) 34 So, is my difficulty with a pupil shutting up too much? (6)

Down 1 A grub that could be hatched on Hathersage moor? (7) 2 Iron casting with Phosphorous of a stonecrop (5) 4 Dairyman, losing his admin. in the rug! (3) 5 Common or garden, and not included (3) 6 Could be rancorous, if it's our kind of limestone (13) 8 Humour, with no end in sight (3) 10 About the boy who's clothed (4) 11 Promise, beginning with vowels? (3) 13 After Yoko, it's the best bid (3) 15 Day of deliberations? (3) 17 Obstacle to rib being cooked rare (7) 19 Pasture village? (3) 20 Oddly click through and cluck away above Matlock Bath (4,3) 22 Actions of the disc operating system. (3) 23 Ordains what turns out to be intrusions (7) 24 Water polo champion in Scottish water (4) 27 'Beany' recipe from village near Bradwell (5) 28 Speak about the hilltops? (5) 30 Have butterscotch from the cradle (3)

Name: ........................................................... Address: .................................................. ......................................................................................................................................... .................................................................. Telephone: .................................................. First, our apologies for messing up the November crossword, which had lots of the wrong clues that didn't match the grid. So, this month we are using the correct version of that crossword, which certainly does match the grid. We shall give a £25 prize to a randomly-drawn, correctly-completed crossword. Cut out your completed puzzle and send it to: Bannister Publications, 118 Saltergate, Chesterfield S40 1NG by December 21, 2022. The answers will appear in the February 2023 issue.

More puzzles at pitcherwits.co.uk

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Crossword by Prof Rebus

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FEATURE

ROCK OF AGES… Fiona Stubbs meets Derbyshire rock legends Saracen – still captivating their faithful followers while discovering new fans around the globe.

T was a warm spring evening in Chesterfield – and the town’s Real Time Live music venue was buzzing with anticipation. It had been a long wait for this sold-out Saracen gig, after Covid restrictions forced postponements in both 2020 and 2021. Though some of us had waited even longer… The last time I’d seen Saracen, it was the 1980s. I was still at school and their epic debut album – Heroes, Saints & Fools – was a significant soundtrack to my, and many others’, teenage years. So, I’d expected that late April night at Real Time Live to be something of a nostalgia-fest. What I hadn’t expected

was a venue packed with fans of all ages: pretty much word-perfect across the band’s entire play-list, spanning six albums. Since then, Saracen have wowed international crowds at rock festivals in France and Germany and recently signed up with the Pure Power Darkside Management roster with a view to playing more UK venues. Throughout the years, the band has experienced hiatuses and line-up changes but the golden thread running throughout is the powerful vocals of Steve Bettney, the only remaining original member. And, of course, the music – written by Saracen co-creator and former guitarist

Rob Bendelow. While the band has ambitions to produce new music, the Saracen sound so far has been characterised by Bendelow’s musical vision; ranging from punchy, guitar-led rock to mystical melodies laced with dramatic keyboards. The ‘Saracen sound’ is undoubtedly a key factor in the band’s longevity – and its diverse appeal across the ages and continents. “Some of the groups playing the European festivals are very heavy metal … then we come on and we’re like a breath of fresh air,” says bassist Paul Highfield. “At the recent Keep It True festival in Germany, people from Argentina, Mexico

Top: The current Saracen line-up, from left, Steve Bettney, Paul Bradder, Tris Alsbury, Simon Roberts and Paul Highfield. Picture by Fiona Stubbs. Below: Saracen on stage at Keep It True in Germany.

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FEATURE

“There’s something inherent in our music that captures the imagination.” City, Brazil, Colombia, the USA and across Europe came to see us. People told us they’d gone specifically to see us perform after discovering our music online.” Steve adds: “There’s something inherent in our music that captures the imagination, somehow. Also, we’re not a band that goes away and hides when we come off stage. We mingle and meet people – we like to talk to our fans. “But even now, after all these years, it’s still surprising when you’re abroad and there are people from Colombia saying they remember us from way back.” The Saracen story dates back to the mid1970s when Rob Bendelow and his long-time friend, Richard Lowe, formed their first band, Lammergier, with bassist Barry Yates and drummer John Thorne – eventually bringing in Steve Bettney on vocals. Steve recalls: “Lammergier was named after a bird of prey – but no-one knew how to pronounce it. Then we were going to be called Bastille or Saracen. We found out in the nick of time there was already a band called Bastille.” The early 1980s saw the release of Heroes, Saints & Fools to critical acclaim. Its seven tracks – Crusader, Rock of Ages, No More Lonely Nights, Horsemen of the Apocalypse, Heroes Saints & Fools, Dolphin Ride and Ready To Fly – impressed fans, music critics and record labels alike and, for a while, promised to propel Saracen to rock stardom. Visit our website at www.reflections-magazine.com

Initially recorded with an independent label, Nucleus, the album caught the attention of record giant Polydor, which signed up Saracen to a nationwide tour. Heroes, Saints & Fools entered the Top 50 with tracks regularly played on Tommy Vance’s Friday Night Rock Show – culminating in a live broadcast session. “We were promised such a lot,” remembers Steve. “Success seemed very tangible at the time. I very nearly ordered a sports car on the back of the record deal. We were on our way… but it never materialised. It was a frustrating time. There was a gradual depletion of enthusiasm.” Rob Bendelow and drummer John Thorne left the band and Saracen released their second album, Change of Heart, on the Neat record label. They continued to gig until going their separate ways in 1985, pursuing careers and family lives.

Top: Saracen after the gig at Chesterfield’s Real Time Live in April. Above: A Saracen gig appeals to people of all ages. Picture by Anneli Bruch. “We all thought it was a dream,” says Steve. “It didn’t happen, so let it go…” But a new century brought new music from Rob Bendelow. His solo album, Come to the Light, was released in January 2000 to rave reviews and the offer of a threealbum deal from Now & Then Records. Steve, Richard Lowe and Rob reunited for the first of these – Red Sky – which was released in March 2003. Rob’s son, Richard, joined them on bass with Jamie Little on drums. Later that year, Paul Bradder replaced Richard Lowe on keyboards for Saracen’s appearance at the 2003 Bloodstock festival. Further albums followed in 2006: Vox In 25 Reflections December 2022

FEATURE Excelso and a double CD re-issue of Red Sky / Heroes Saints & Fools before band members went on to pursue separate projects. They met up again in 2008 and, with Rob and others no longer wanting to be on the road, Steve and Paul recruited new blood and Saracen’s current – and most enduring – line-up was established: Steve Bettney – vocals; Paul Bradder – keyboards; Simon Roberts – guitar; Paul Highfield – bass; and Tris Alsbury – drums. It gave Steve, Paul Bradder and Paul Highfield a chance to re-establish musical links from the past. Steve and Paul Bradder grew up together in Heath, going on to play in rival bands, Wild Wolf and Squire respectively. Paul Highfield also played bass in Wild Wolf – with Steve not on vocals, but on drums. “When I was a drummer, I used to sing a couple of songs while our vocalist got changed during the set and I really enjoyed it,” recalls Steve who, in more recent years, has also sung Michael Buble covers at corporate events. “I’ve always liked singing – I was in the choir at school when it wasn’t cool to be in a choir!” With Simon and Tris completing the line-up, Saracen released further albums – Marilyn in 2011 and Redemption in 2014 – both written by Rob Bendelow.

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Saracen in Rocamadour, southern France, after performing at the Pyrennean Warriors Open Air festival. They have consistently played gigs and festivals in the UK, France, Germany, Belgium, Spain and Greece, culminating in crowd-pleasing appearances this autumn in the Pyrennean Warriors Open Air festival in Torreilles, France and Keep It True Rising 2 in Wurzburg, Germany. Tris says: “Heavy rock is still big in Europe, especially Germany and France. There are a few key people in Europe who are instrumental in getting some of the older bands back together. There’s a ‘scene’ – they’re keeping it alive for the next generation. “Saracen has great momentum and now we’re getting the opportunity to play the next level up. The reception we’re

getting from people is just phenomenal. “There’s a feeling that the fans like the old stuff but there’s also a growing interest for something new. We are all really keen to make sure that there is some continuity and we stay true to the sound of Saracen.” Tris and bandmate Simon do most of the new writing. Simon – who also plays with Derby band Raptorgeist – says: “Writing new music is always a magical experience when you create something from nowhere.” Paul Bradder adds: “We all put ideas into the pot and have an equal say. It all has to fit into the Saracen mould. We’re so grateful to our fans and the promoters that we are where we are now. Everybody has been kind and generous and it’s much appreciated.” So, what is it about Saracen that’s so special? The last words should go to the man who has been there since the start. “For me, it’s still walking out on stage,” says Steve. “The first time we played Keep It True in 2011, I’d never experienced a reception like that. What an ego-massaging experience! People were camping out to see us. What’s not to love? “We’ve all been together a long time and it’s taken a while to fully appreciate what we have. There’s no doubt that everybody has played a part – and Rob (Bendelow) is responsible for this. I’m privileged – proud – to still do it.”

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COUNTYWIDE NEWS as Matlock’s role in the world wars, mining and quarrying, the Derwent Valley Aqueduct and even a chamber pot murder!”

Death of former Peak Park boss

Christmas is coming to the Crags

Above: Will there be snow at Creswell Crags this Christmas?

THERE’S so much going on this festive season at Creswell Crags, and Santa will once again be visiting his grotto every weekend from now until Christmas. Every child who visits will receive a gift and be able to take part in the Christmas crafting sessions, all included in their Santa ticket. The stunning archaeological park will host a new festive family trail allowing children of all ages to hunt for the hidden hand-made reindeer. Each reindeer will have a secret letter children can use to spell a festive word. Everyone taking part in the trail will receive a treat on completion. The Creswell Crags Café will be serving its tasty winter menu including home-made soup, delicious paninis and, of course, a delightful selection of cakes supplied by local suppliers. Open every weekend up to Christmas, the museum gift shop will be stocked with a unique range of Ice Age inspired gifts for all ages, from books and cuddly toys to unique handmade jewellery and stoneware. Hannah Steggles, head of public engagement, says: “We appreciate the cost-of-living crisis will have an impact on Christmas for many, but we’re committed to keeping the cost of our activities as low as possible to ensure everyone can have an amazing festive period.”

Angelique Foster said: “The police force has recently stepped up its efforts to tackle anti-social behaviour and neighbourhood crime across Derbyshire. I am supporting that crucial work with community-based problem-solving.”

Grant for local charity One of Derbyshire’s most innovative charities – Cromford-based River Network – has been awarded an Anti-Social Behaviour Prevention Grant by the county’s Police and Crime Commissioner Angelique Foster. Young people need exciting and relevant alternative opportunities, and River Network can certainly offer that, said the charity’s CEO Terry Eckersley. 30 Reflections December 2022

Enjoy the town’s ‘jitties’ MATLOCK Civic Association (MCA) has published its third walking guide, entitled ‘The Jitties of Matlock’. It can be bought for £5 from these Matlock locations: Bridge News in Crown Square; The Café in the Park in Hall Leys; Hurst Farm Social Club on Hazel Grove; The Zinc café on Bank Road; also at Countryside Books at Cromford Mill; The Cromford Mill Bookshop; and Scarthin Books in Cromford. The generously-illustrated, 48-page booklet guides pedestrians along five colour-coded routes with accompanying maps, including a wheelchair route. It focuses on the narrow pathways (or ‘jitties’) in and around the town. There is a fold-out map of all the pathways; and Bridge News, Café in the Park and the Social Club also sell this map separately for £1 each. Richard Walker, an MCA trustee, is the author of the new booklet. He said: “Well-known landmarks such as High Tor and Riber Castle are featured together with many less well-known topics such

THE former head of the Peak District National Park authority, Michael Dower, died last month, aged 89. Michael Dower, (pictured), led the organisation, known then as the Peak Park Joint Planning Board, from 1985 until 1992. He was able to claim to have national parks in his blood: his father John Dower wrote the 1945 White Paper ‘National Parks in England and Wales’ which led to the National Parks Act of 1949. His mother Pauline was, for 16 years, a member of the National Parks Commission, which oversaw the creation of the first 10 in England and Wales, including the first, the Peak District. His former colleagues remember him as an inspirational leader, with a lifelong commitment to actively protecting landscapes and finding solutions that benefited rural economies and communities. In 1992, Michael moved to become Director-General of the Countryside Commission, the government agency responsible at the time for advice on policy and funding for national parks. Michael lived his later years in Dorset, where he was an active campaigner on climate and related issues.

‘Devolution’ consultation A PUBLIC consultation about devolution for Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire has begun. The consultation is open until January 9, 2023 and is open to residents, businesses and community groups. The leaders of both county councils, and with both Derby and Nottingham city councils, agreed to work on a devolution deal in August, following a Government announcement that a package of new powers and funding, worth £1.14 billion, was available for the area. More detailed proposals have been drawn up, and they are what the councils want the public to comment on. More information, and a link to the online survey, are available at www.eastmidlandsdevolution. co.uk/have-your-say If the plans go ahead, it would mean a new regional mayor and it would create the first of a new type of combined authority for the two counties and cities, which requires new legislation from central government. To advertise call 01246 550488

‘Bordering on the Ridiculous’ by Jon Cook

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LEGAL SERVICES

CHILDREN FIRST

AT CHRISTMAS How separated parents can avoid festive friction

N a season associated with festive cheer, divorced and separated parents know that Christmas preparations can still be a challenge. Determining where and with whom children spend the holidays can be difficult when there are two households to consider. That’s especially true when former spouses or partners are living with someone else. Cohabitation - and, with it, the thought of having children spend Christmas with an ex and their new partner - contributes to some of the festive friction which I am regularly called upon to help deal with. The good news is that it can be avoided with a little forward planning and focusing on those to whom Christmas means most: children. It may seem hard when the months between the start of the new school year in September and the festive break in December pass by almost in a blur.

Yet taking a moment to consider possible arrangements for you, your former partner and children as soon as you can removes the prospect of making decisions at the last minute, something which can add to the pressures involved. Many adults across the country face the same issues at Christmas. Most are able to find a compromise which works for them and their children. It can prove useful to speak to a family lawyer about your plans even before you and your ex discuss them together. This can help put things in perspective and is always helpful to understand the legal position in a potential family dispute. If you are both then unable to agree on what to do, lawyers can advise on Alternate Dispute Resolution methods such as mediation, collaborative law or arbitration to help avoid going to court but reach a solution acceptable to all. However, sometimes resolution may

Louise Butcher, Associate Solicitor at Hall Brown Family Law. only be possible through the courts, when prompt action is a necessity. The family courts are busy at the best of times and their workload always increases before summer and Christmas holidays. To ensure that your situation is dealt with in good time, it is best to explore your legal options as soon as you can. I want to emphasise, though, that court should only be considered as a last resort. These days, there is a wide range of formal and informal methods for helping parents resolve matters like these. For instance, there are a number of parenting apps

available to help separated parents and older children communicate and make plans in a co-operative and civil manner. In addition, there are methods of Alternative Dispute Resolution, or ADR for short, referred to above that can help achieve an amicable outcome without the expense, stress and delay which can be associated with the court process. Hall Brown not only recommends the use of ADR wherever and whenever possible but has seen many instances in which it has averted conflict and allowed children and parents alike to really enjoy a merry Christmas.

CONTACT LOUISE BUTCHER AT HALL BROWN FAMILY LAW: E: louise.butcher@hallbrown.co.uk M: 07518 291 029 HALL BROWN FAMILY LAW: 0114 553 4570 | info@hallbrown.co.uk | Hallbrown.co.uk 2 PINFOLD STREET, SHEFFIELD, S1 2GU

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GIFT GUIDE

Christmas Gift Guide 2022 CHRISTMAS is just around the corner, and what better way to spread the love than with a gift from one of the multitude of shops, stores and restaurants in and around chesterfield?

With a wealth of shops, stores, market stalls and restaurants, there’s a gift perfect for everyone on your Christmas list this year. We’ve handpicked a selection of gifts to spark your imagination and get your Christmas shopping started in Chesterfield now.

Boba Shack (Cavendish Street)

Blanc and Blanc Occasions (Chatsworth Road)

Adorn Jewellers (Middle Shambles) This delightful Robin’s Nest Brooch features three turquoise eggs nestled in a silver nest. Perfect for a special Christmas present. Robin’s Nest Brooch - £65.00

Find out more: www. adornjewellerschesterfield. co.uk/

It wouldn’t be Christmas without slippers and these Classic Laines London beauties from Love Chesterfield Award winner Blanc are a cut above, especially for a dog lover. They feature a detachable artisan dog brooch and come presented in a gift bag.

Youngsters will love a voucher for their favourite bubble tea this Christmas. Give them a Boba Shack gift certificate which can be used to buy cosmic teas, indulgent lattes, all served ice cold with the all-important tapioca pearls and popping boba. Gift Vouchers - from £5

Find out more: www. bobashack.co.uk

Brampton Brewery (Chatsworth Road) Ale that’s brewed with a passion will be consumed with a passion. That’s what we’ve learned over the years. Go the extra mile this Christmas by gifting the beer-lover 12 bottles of the finest ales handpicked by head brewer, Chris Radford. 12 Bottle Mixed Case – from £29.00

Classic Laines Slippers - £39.00

Find out more: www. blancouture.co.uk

Find out more: www. bramptonbrewery.co.uk

Dotique (Chatsworth Road) This striking black and off-white print scarf by Oui features tassels on each corner and a blue and red contrasting edge. Lightweight and easy to wear. Oui scarf - £69

Find out more: www. dotique.co.uk Continued on 40

Burlingtons Hair Salon (Glass Yard) If you fancy going the extra mile this Christmas with a touch of luxury, the System Professional LuxeOil Keratin Protect Shampoo and Conditioner nourishes the hair without weighing it down. Designed to be used with the LuxeOil Reconstructive Elixir, this set supports fresh, detangled lengths. System Professional LuxeOil Keratin Protect Shampoo 250ml and Conditioner 200ml - £40.00

Find out more: www. burlingtonshair.co.uk

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Northern Tea Merchants (Chatsworth Road) Whether you’re buying for a tea, coffee or chocolate lover, you can build your own hamper at Northern Tea Merchants to ensure it will be right up their street. Hampers – from £15

Find out more: www. northern-tea.com

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GIFT GUIDE

Continued from 36

Chesterfield Canal Cruise (Tapton Lock)

Chesterfield FC (Sheffield Road) Delight a Chesterfield FC fan this Christmas with a football shirt which can be personalised with the wearer’s name. Available to purchase at the club shop or online Adult Puma Home Shirt - £40 Child’s Puma Home Shirt - £30

Find out more: www. chesterfield-fc.com/

Treat someone to a canal cruise on the Madeline from Hollingwood Hub or the John Varley II from Tapton Lock in Chesterfield.

Ginspired (Chesterfield Market Hall) The self-professed emporium of gin, rum, whisky and much more have plenty of gift options for friends, family and loved ones this year to make that special day all the more merry. Christmas Globe Spiced orange & Cranberry Gin Liqueur with edible gold leaf in a light up globe bottle – from £23.95

Find out more: www. ginspiredshop.com

Chesterfield Canal Cruise vouchers – from £5

Crooked Spire Gift Shop Contemporary design meets traditional theme this Christmas with this lovely 2-piece set from the wide range of Nativities available at The Crooked Spire Gift Shop. Purchase in gift shop or online Mary, Joseph and Jesus ornament – from £23.95

Find out more: www. crookedspiregiftshop.org

Global Brands – LUSTRE (online) Desirable, deluxe and delicious, LUSTRE is a three-piece range of luxury cream liqueurs, delivering both sustainability and satisfaction. Available in three flavours: Strawberry Cream, Pineapple Cream and Caffe Latte Cream. Available to purchase online. LUSTRE Luxury cream liqueurs – from £16.50

Find out more: www. goodtimein.co.uk

Teapots, coﬀee pots, ceramics and glassware – from £16

Find out more: 01246 601163 Continued on 44

Chesterfield Escape Rooms (Soresby Street) Chesterfield’s Number 1 Live Escape Game experience offers 60-minutes of immersive, action-packed fun for 2-6 people. A great gift experience for families and teens. Any room for two players – from £55

Figaro Wingerworth Environmentally conscious, plant-based cafe and bar have gift vouchers available to purchase and have a gift/deli section selling teas, coffee, crockery, candles, ceramics and vegan confectionary and deli items for the plantbased lover this Christmas.

Find out more: www. chesterfield-canaltrust.org.uk

Find out more: www. chesterfieldescaperooms. co.uk

Cibo Bistro (Low Pavement) The small, friendly, independent bistro kitchen has a beautiful selection of gifts for customers to purchase which include luxury hot chocolate cones, gins, liquors and other delights.

Chatsworth Estate Farm Shop (Pilsley)

Luxury hot chocolate cones - from £2.50

Treat someone special to a selection of festive favourites from the Chatsworth Estate Farm Shop, presented in a keepsake wicker basket. Purchase instore or online.

Find out more: www. cibobistrokitchen.co.uk

Christmas delights hamper - £150

Find out more: www. shop.chatsworth.org 40 Reflections December 2022

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GIFT GUIDE

Continued from 40

Double Tree by Hilton Sheffield Park Huckleberry Willow (St Mary’s Gate) Little ones love Jellycat soft toys, and there are lots of lovely characters and animals including the new Christmas range to choose from at Huckleberry Willow. Jellycat soft toys - from £9

Find out more: www. huckleberrywillow.co.uk

Mrs Green’s Eco Store (online)

After the stresses and strains of the festive season, a luxurious, overnight pamper session could be the ideal gift. As well as bed and breakfast and a three-course dinner in the onsite Marco Pierre White Steakhouse, the package also includes a treatment and afternoon tea. Overnight Pamper Package - £200

Find out more: www. doubletree-byhilton-sheffield-park. mytoggle.io/shop/ overnight-pamper-package

Love Brewing (Chatsworth Road) This starter pack contains some of the essential products needed to start brewing. It includes an additional fermenting bucket and lid and also comes with a free wine or beer kit (while stocks last). Purchase online or instore. Essential Brewing Starter Pack – from £50

Ringwood Hall Hotel & Spa A stay and spa package offers the ultimate in relaxation and the perfect way to enjoy a night away. Enjoy a Garden Secret Spa experience with dinner bed and breakfast. Stay and Spa package – from £189.00pp

Find out more: www. ringwoodhallhotel.com

Find out more: www. lovebrewing.co.uk

Master Debonair (Chatsworth Road)

For a delightful gift for eco conscious loved ones, these Love Coco bowls are completely natural.

Know someone who loves a dress shoe? These floral fancies well and truly push the boat out when it comes to attention grabbing formal footwear.

Love Coco 700ml Coconut Bowl with Bamboo Straw & Oil- £6

Justin Reess Ross Tan Floral Brogues - £89.99

Find out more: www. mrsgreensecostore.com

Find out more: www. masterdebonair.com

John Stevenson Jewellers (Glumangate) Monkey Park Café (Chester Street) Monkey Park Café’s Makers’ Market offers a wide range of handcrafted goods from a selection of artisans at affordable prices, like this beautiful tulip vase.

This solid bronze hummingbird sculpture is one of a limited edition. Only 150 of these beautiful sculptures have been produced and each one comes individually wooden boxed with certificate and limited edition number.

Tulip Vase – £16

Solid bronze hummingbird sculpture – £295

Find out more: www. monkeypark.org.uk

Find out more: www. johnstevensonjewellers.com

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Travel Counsellors Spoil a loved one with the gift of a luxury 4-star hotel and theatre break for two in London this Christmas. Taking in a top West End show as well as the sights and sounds of the nation’s capital, this gift is bound to be as much of a hit as the show! London hotel and theatre break for 2 – from £350

Find out more: www. travelcounsellors. co.uk/katie.styring

RP Davidson Cheese Factor (Market Hall) For the cheese-lover in your life, RP Davidson has the answer. It has a wide range of cheeseboards are available. For more information or to make an order, please visit in store or get in touch. Cheeseboard – Prices vary

Shop Indie (Vicar Lane Shopping Centre) Show off your understanding of our local Derbyshire dialect with this fun Be Reyt mug. Part of a range of dialect products designed by Chesterfield maker, Me and Thee. Be Reyt Mug - £10

Find out more: www. shopindie.co.uk

Find out more: www. cheese-factor.co.uk

Stanedge Golf Club Keep the golf lover in your life looking fresh on the golf course with clothing available online for all styles and budgets. Purchase at the club shop or online. Golf clothing – prices vary

Find out more: www. stanedgegolfshop.co.uk/

The Goldsmith Clinic (Lordsmill Street)

Salute (Online) Salute has a range of Christmas hampers available which include all of the delectable treats your heart could desire. Each hamper is made with love to be the perfect gift. Please note, the last order date is 11 December.

StraightCurves (Saltergate) These gorgeous robins make great Christmas gifts for a craft person in your life. There are four options to choose or get the trio kit and make an army of robins.

Christmas Hampers – From £25

Robin Decoration Kit - from £12.50

Find out more: www.saluteprosecco.com/hampers

Find out more: Purchase online www. straightcurves.co.uk/

Continued on 50

Treat someone special to the ultimate in skincare – a luxury Hydrafacial from The Goldsmith Clinic. HydraFacial is the ideal skin treatment for all skin types that can be personalised to tackle specific concerns or even just replenish optimal skin health. Hydrafacial - £130

Find out more: www. thegoldsmith.clinic

Rose Cottage Doggy Day Care (online) It’s Christmas for our furry, four-legged family members too. Treat your ‘pawsome’ pal to a gift box packed with treats they’ll love and a cuddly toy. DogLand Gift Boxes - £30.00

Find out more: www. rosecottagedoggydaycare. co.uk

Sicily Restaurant (Sheffield Road) Give the gift of a delicious authentic Sicilian meal out with gift vouchers from the winner of the Love Chesterfield Best Restaurant Award 2022. Vouchers are available to purchase in the restaurant, and are valid for 12 months and can be used towards food or drinks. Vouchers - from £20

Find out more: www.sicilyrestaurantchesterfield.co.uk/

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GIFT GUIDE

Continued from 48

Vanishing Point Records (Theatre Yard) Tickled Trout (Barlow) Delight someone with vouchers for a tasty treat at the Trout. Gift vouchers are available to suit any appetite and budget. Purchase online at https:// giftcards.quadranet.co.uk/ Gift vouchers - from £25

Find out more: www. tickledtroutbarlow.com

West Studios (Sheffield Road) Established as a showcase for the local creative community and students of Chesterfield College, West Studios gallery and shop offers a plethora or creative gifts like this enamel pin badge. Purchase online at www.etsy.com/ uk/shop/WestStudiosStore or at West Studios Tea Drinkers Enamel Pin - £7

Find out more: www. weststudios.co.uk/

What Christmas holiday season is complete without doing an Indiana Jones movie marathon? Alternatively, you could have the Raiders of the Lost Ark original motion picture soundtrack by John Williams playing in the background on your turntable whilst you boil your sprouts! Buy online or in store.

Ashgate Hospice You’ll find these on-trend gonk doorstops, available in two styles Nordic grey or traditional red stripes, in Ashgate shops. Gonk doorstop - £8.99

Raiders of the Lost Ark - £19.99

Find out more: www. vanishingpointrecords.com

Yours Clothing (Vicar Lane Shopping Centre) Great British Car Journey (Ambergate) Stunning images from Autocar’s 125-year-old magazine archive are now available from Great British Car Journey and make the perfect gift for a car enthusiast. Choose from 75 images of cars produced between 1922 – 1965, reproduced on stretch canvases, prints and metal plaques. Prices start from £16.95

Order online at www. greatbritishcarjourney.com

Pizza Pi (Vicar Lane shopping Centre) Pizza is everyone’s favourite so why not gift it this Christmas with a voucher for Pizza Pi. They have pizzas to suit everyone’s tastes, including vegan. Purchase online or instore. Vouchers – from £20

Find out more: www. pizzapiuk.com

Little Ark For little kids this Christmas, the Boppi Bamboo Marble runs are eco-friendly and great fun to learn with. Create and build multiple structures using the interchangeable and connectable parts to allow the marbles to travel from the top of the marble maze to the base via the spiral drop, rail tracks, and direction cylinders. Made with bamboo fibre, wood, and 100% recycled plastic.

Treat someone to a cosy night-in with this range of Curve nightwear by Yours Clothing in sizes 14 – 36. Choose from pyjama sets and nightdresses featuring Disney, Snoopy and Tatty Teddy. Simply complete the look with slippers and a dressing gown. Curve nightwear – from £19.99

Find out more: www. yoursclothing.co.uk

Wooden Bamboo Marble Run – from £29.95

Find out more: www. thelittleark.co.uk

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FEATURE

Five

winter tips

from the woods

there are areas where they can be safely left alone, please do so. Leaf cover offers protection to the ground underneath, keeping frost or snow off the grass, for example. It can also become an important part of the cycle of life, as leaf mulch breaks down important nutrients into the soil.

E are working hard here at the Woodland Burial Company, on the edge of Chesterfield, to prepare the woodland for the winter, writes Claire Lyons. Our responsibility to care for nature, while restoring the woodland to its native glory, means we have learned some top tips to help your garden over the winter months.

Creating a dry habitat for wildlife

Whether you have room for a hedgehog house, or just a hanging bug house, creating a safe and dry space for wildlife is a wonderful addition. You could create a log pile using offcuts of wood, branches or free pallets. This supports a whole eco system and will last for many years with little maintenance needed. It’s also a fun activity for children to join in with, and can be added to over time.

Seasonal safety A bio-degradable wreath at Granville’s Wood.

Leaving out high-fat foods

Where possible, always buy the best quality bird or animal food you can, and make sure it’s appropriate for the species you have in your garden. You can also make high fat feeders to help birds get through the winter by putting all your leftover fat from cooking into a single container (broken mugs are perfect). Over time this will fill up, you can mix in some porridge oats or bird seed and then hang in a tree or suitable place.

Safe water sources

Even in the coldest months, wildlife still need to hydrate. Having a water source, that you keep from freezing over, is a really helpful addition to any garden. Make sure you have some steps in the water, so that no animals can fall in and not get out. Lifting out any leaves and breaking any ice can become a morning routine, getting a refreshing blast of cold air to wake up fully! A hanging bug house is a great addition to any garden.

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A hedgehog house in Granville’s Wood.

Leaving leaves

While it’s important to make sure that paths and steps are cleared of slippery leaves, if

If you are adding any decorations to your garden, or front door, over the festive season please make sure that they do not contain any fake berries, glitter or other items that are potentially harmful to wildlife. We offer a completely degradable wreath, containing bird food, at Granville’s Wood for those who like to add one to their nook in December. They are very popular with the birds, who may struggle to find food sources during the winter. Last year we had to refill them! Even though it may seem as if nothing happens in the garden during winter, beneath the soil and under the leaves there is a lot going on. Bulbs are getting ready to burst forth, minibeasts are trying to keep warm and birds are still hunting for food. editor’s Note: To arrange a visit to Granville’s Wood, and discuss your ideas with our team, contact us at info@ woodlandburialcompany.com.

A covered log pile creates a dry habitat for wildlife over the winter months.

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FASHION

BE FABULOUSLY

festive THIS YEAR!

Sparkle and shine your way through the Christmas party season in style, says Amy Norbury.

ITH lockdown Christmas and loungewear for all occasions an increasingly distant memory, there’s once again a festive season with works shindigs, family parties and dinner with friends to look forward to. Yes, we’re back to business as usual! Which means conjuring up an array of outfits to style out the socialising. So get your sequins at the ready, grab your favourite heels and prepare to take party season by storm. Festive season always means dialling your wardrobe up a notch – or three. From feathers and crystals to glitter and ruffles, if there’s one time to be ‘extra’ in your outfit choices, this is it. For a full-on glitterball effect, sequins are a sure-fire festive winner; opt for sophisticated black or glamorous

1. 2. 3.

Calwich Metallic Feather Dress in Black, £85, FatFace. www.fatface.com Sonder Studio sequin dress, £79, and coat, £149. www.sonderstudio.co.uk Gold Metallic Spot Midi Dress, £110, Oliver Bonas. www.oliverbonas.com

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FASHION 4

gold all over for a chic take, or stand out from the crowd in a bright, bold hue – wallflowers need not apply. Bling not your thing? Channel Christmas style through your choice of fabrics instead. Velvet is always a winner at this time of year, perfect for a subtle stylish shimmer, while slinky satin dresses ramp up the glamour stakes with ease. If you’re looking for a festive investment which will take you from office to bar and beyond, look no further than this season’s hottest suiting. A matching two-piece is perfect for channelling that ‘work hard, play hard vibe’, and AW22’s oversized style works perfectly with widelegged trousers and a longline blazer. Team with a sensible button-down shirt for daytime, and ramp up the sex appeal with a slinky cami as the sun goes down. Get the most from your investment, too, by wearing your suit as separates – widelegged trousers and a chunky knit are perfect for casual drinks, while throwing your blazer over your party dress will

4. 5. 6. 7.

help keep the chills at bay in style. All that remains is to add a splash of glittering accessories – chandelier earrings and long layered necklaces are a killer finish to any outfit – and festive party dressing is all wrapped up!

Sequin cold shoulder jumpsuit, £34, Et Vous at Matalan. www.matalan.co.uk M&S Collection satin dress, £39.50, Marks and Spencer.. www.marksandspencer.com Luna embroidered oidered velvet dress, £90, Joe Browns. www.joebrowns.co.uk Penelope Chilvers Black Velvet Infinity Heels, £199, Oliver Bonas. www.oliverbonas.com

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COUNTYWIDE NEWS

Above: Stand Wood, containing The Hunting Tower, behind Chatsworth House.

Replanting a Chatsworth woodland A MAJOR replanting of Stand Wood – the woodland that sits on the steep hill behind Chatsworth House – is taking place to restore thousands of trees to a landscape which includes the Hunting Tower and four reservoirs. The forestry team at Chatsworth is planting around 25,000 new trees with a much wider variety of species, including

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oak, hornbeam, birch, alder, sycamore and yew, across its 383 acres. All of the saplings have been grown in UK nurseries and while different species grow at different rates, most of the tree canopy is expected to be above head height in the next 10-15 years. The replanting with a greater mixture of species will help make Stand Wood more disease-resistant as it replaces trees which had to be felled after approximately 5,500 trees became infected with a deadly water mould called Phytophthora Ramorum, which particularly damages larch trees.

You can help tackle climate change in Chesterfield RESIDENTS, businesses and community groups across the borough are being invited to have their say on local plans to reduce the impact of climate change, as part of Chesterfield Borough Council’s ongoing commitment to tackle the climate emergency.

By taking part in the new survey, people can help shape the council’s next climate change strategy which will set out how the authority will continue to reduce its own environmental impact, while working with the community to lower emissions across the borough. The updated strategy will build on the success of ambitious work already underway to help the council become a carbon neutral organisation by 2030, and to lay the groundwork for Chesterfield to become a carbon neutral borough by 2050. Coun Amanda Serjeant, deputy leader of Chesterfield Borough Council, said: “Since we declared a climate emergency in 2019, we have taken clear and effective action to lower the environmental impact of our services. “This includes a £13.7m programme to reduce carbon emissions from our council homes, at least 1,000 trees being planted each year since 2019, and a switch to renewable energy purchases for electricity. “We’re now moving to the next phase of these plans and this updated strategy will underpin our ongoing efforts to achieve our robust targets.” To comment on the updated strategy before December 12, go to www. chesterfield.gov.uk/climate-survey

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57 Reflections December 2022

PICTURE COMPETITION

Please help us select our

2022 winner… N

ow we want YOU to help us pick a winner, by selecting your 1-2-3: please give the letter (and the photographer’s name) of each of your favourite three images. You can vote either by email – to barrief@ bannisterpublications. co.uk – or send us a postcard to Reflections, 118 Saltergate, Chesterfield S40 1NG. The closing date for voting is noon on Wednesday, December 7, 2022… and the result will be announced in our January issue. The overall winner will receive a meal for two at a top local restaurant and the chance to have a selection of their images published in Reflections.

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A stunning shot of Castleton and a frosty Hope Valley, taken from the Great Ridge by Keith Emmerson, of Darley Dale, who has also captured a ‘fallstreak hole’ in the clouds. It has happened so often in recent years: the River Derwent bursting its banks at Chatsworth. It was captured by Brian Smith, of Upper Newbold, on February 21. A lovely reflection of a heron taking off over the frozen Chesterfield Canal was captured in January by Clive Robbins.

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Tony Holmes of Wirksworth, took this snap in Alfreton, in late March. He explains: “Two men installed these umbrellas in the shopping mall. After they had finished, the sun came out and I was amazed how it brightened up the street.” Chatsworth House frontage was lit up in purple to celebrate the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee. It was taken on June 3 by Simon Hampton, of Walton. It’s not too often you see two deer on a towpath, but Ian Moorcroft, of Hollingwood, captured them on his camera in late March. He says: “These swam across in front of me from the Brimington side, then headed off towards Whittington.” Next, a glorious ‘carpet of pink confetti’ on Imperial Road, Matlock, captured in early May by Jill Armshaw, of Matlock. Here’s a ‘giant head’ sculpture at Chatsworth pictured through Paine’s Bridge by Russ Teale, of Newbold, taken in late March.

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H 59 Reflections December 2022

PICTURE COMPETITION

Humour on the A6 close to Buxton, thanks to this June 3 photograph by Chris Waddington, of Great Longstone.

Seven-year-old Thea Shepherd, of Matlock, took this picture of deer surrounding a Radical Horizons Exhibition sculpture on the Chatsworth Estate on June 7.

Here’s a robin ‘photobombing’ a garden celebration! It was taken by Elaine Marsh, of Bakewell, in early July. Enjoying the evening sunshine are these people having a picnic on Baslow Edge on July 13. The picture was taken by Brian Smith, of Upper Newbold.

A ‘lunch has arrived’ picture, courtesy of Mike Fowkes, as a house sparrow feeds a chick in the wall of a building in his home village of Elton.

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Chris Barnes, of Chesterfield, took this picture of an almost-dry Howden Reservoir on August 3.

How romantic is this! This wedding couple were pictured on Curbar Edge by Pauline Chapman, of Bakewell.

The sun shines through this lone tree at the top of Grange Hill on Eastmoor. It was taken by Ian Moorcroft, of Hollingwood.

In early August, Russ Teale, of Newbold, took this picture of two deer trying to keep cool with a ‘mud bath’ on Big Moor. Finally, a photo of Riber Castle – which seems to be floating on clouds – taken on October 3 by Steve Dolling, of Upper Newbold.

R Visit our website at www.reflections-magazine.com

61 Reflections December 2022

ARTIST OF THE MONTH

From festival fireworks to metal birds!

Douglas creating another bird sculpture in his Bradwell workshop.

Barrie Farnsworth talks to an artist who has swapped providing festival firework displays for the creation of metal birds!

HE pandemic was particularly bad news for Douglas Nicholson, who had been staging massive firework and theatrical displays – for festivals including Glastonbury, major civic displays, set designs for theatres and concerts – for just over 30 years until Covid-19 struck. Those events, of course, dried up in the lockdowns – and Douglas had had more than enough of the ‘stressful business’ of running his pyrotechnic and theatrical display company, External Combustion, since 1988. So he decided to become a full-time artist instead, specialising in the creation of steel and wood sculptures, garden structures and furniture, to “make things that people will cherish”. 62 Reflections December 2022

Douglas’ first commission: a life-size heron now next to a garden pond in Holland! Luckily, he and his partner had bought a house and old garage in Bradwell in 2017, so the former garage became a sizeable workshop for the new artist. “My company had used as its workshop one of the tunnels created by the 5th Duke of Portland on the Welbeck Estate

in Nottinghamshire – and it took nearly six months to move all the machine tools I needed to Bradwell!,” Douglas said. Tagging on his new artistic business – called Hero’s Engine Works – onto his original company website and use of an Instagram account to appeal for To advertise call 01246 550488

ARTIST OF THE MONTH

Above: A life-size curlew commission, completed in stainless and Corten weathering steel. It was created by planishing metal into stretched and shrunk panels and welded to a skeleton. Top right: Douglas’ company, External Combustion, specialised in massive firework displays, often for major civic events like this one in Barnsley.

“I still make specialist flame machines, which are used in big displays and at festivals like Glastonbury.” commissions, he recalls that a gentleman in Amsterdam commissioned him during the first lockdown to create a life-size heron to place by a garden pond. “I hadn’t really created a figurative piece since I left Psalter Lane Art School in Sheffield as a graduate in 1985, but it was an exciting challenge. It also allowed me to experiment using different metals and techniques,” Douglas explained. “Happily, the client liked what I made using Corten and stainless steel.” A few ‘metal bird’ commissions have followed, and Douglas believes he would be happy to concentrate his work in that area. However, he has also created everything from railings and bar stools in his ‘new life’. Douglas has not given up all the work that his External Combustion company undertakes. “I still make specialist flame machines, which are used in big displays and at festivals like Glastonbury. Visit our website at www.reflections-magazine.com

A life-size raven created by Douglas, which is for sale.

“Apart from its ‘fallow’ years, I have been going to Glastonbury every year since 1991 to provide displays. There are many people like me who have been to every festival since then to provide the stage sets and pyrotechnics, etc. Although we don’t receive big budgets for what we do, we still go back to every festival – we are almost like a tribe!

“I am 59 now, and I am so glad that I got rid of the stress of working in the fireworks business and refocused my life as an artist,” he added. Editor’s Note: Check out Douglas’ work at the website herosengineworks. externalcombustion.com or on Instagram external_combustion 63 Reflections December 2022

64 Reflections December 2022

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65 Reflections December 2022

FEATURE

The second victim, George Stobbs. His body was also dumped off Clod Hall Lane, near Curbar Edge.

The first victim, William Arthur Elliott.

OFFICIAL FILES ON

‘THE CROOKED SPIRE KILLINGS’ REMAIN SEALED – SIXTY YEARS ON Alan Hurndall, a Dronfield journalist, has written about two horrific local murders in the Sixties – and the official ‘wall of silence’ he faced over the cases.

Above right: Local journalist Alan Hurndall.

66 Reflections December 2022

STUDENT out cycling in the Peak District stumbles upon the body of a man covered in fire ash. He is lying face down and is fully clothed. The man is wearing a suit but his shoes are missing. His arm is extended over his head and there’s a small pool of dried blood under his forehead. On his head, someone has arranged a pattern of grass: neat and artistic like some sort of ritual marking. A post mortem will show he was horrifically beaten, probably stamped to death. The following year, a lady of the manor is out walking her dogs in the grounds of her estate in Chesterfield and stumbles across a blood-stained diary. Nearby there

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FEATURE

Police sign sealing off Clod Hall Lane, where the bodies were found.

is a trail of blood on bushes and leaves, and signs that something or someone had been dragged through the undergrowth. It turns out that a serial killer has struck again – dumping his victim on the same country road, 50 yards or so from the first gruesome find. It all reads like the plot of an Agatha Christie murder mystery. But this isn’t a novel. It’s a macabre true story of events centred on Chesterfield in the early Sixties. My book, The Crooked Spire Killings, tells the full story of what remains Derbyshire’s biggest-ever manhunt. The first victim was George Elliott, a 60-year-old bachelor from Bakewell, who worked as a clerk at a teacher training college on the Thornbridge Estate. Hours before the discovery of his body, his bubble car was found crashed outside Queens Park in Chesterfield. The following year, Joy Adlington was walking her Golden Labrador Sandy and sheepdog Pincher on her 40-acre Stubbing Estate, near Wingerworth. The diary she found belonged to a Chesterfield industrial chemist called George Stobbs. Mrs Adlington’s discovery confirmed that Stobbs, a married man, had been murdered on her estate and dumped miles away on the same roadside – Clod Hall Lane, near Curbar Edge. Both victims were members of an underground community of gay men centred in Chesterfield. At the time, any form of sexual activity between men was illegal and homosexuals were subject to abuse, arrest and ‘queer bashing’. The victims had been picked up in town-centre pubs

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protection. This, despite the fact that the and lured to the countryside where they victim’s families have either passed away met their deaths at the hands of someone or are co-operating with my book. Appeals with a clear grudge against homosexuals. by me under the Freedom of Information In between, a teenager was stabbed to Act failed to change their minds. death in a wood outside a British Army The case was dogged by controversy barracks in Verden, Germany. Was there about police tactics and a rather unusual a link with the Derbyshire murders? My book tracks the four-year investigation friendship between the officer leading the investigation and the only suspect, a former into the murders from Derbyshire to the Chesterfield soldier. The officer became North German plains. It outlines the a father figure, giving him money and frustrations of both civilian and military helping him to find work police in proving and accommodation. their suspicions. One of the most satisfying I began researching the story soon after “The case was dogged aspects for me was tracking the publication of my by controversy about down the son of George Stobbs, who was away at previous book, Pottery police tactics and boarding school at the time Cottage, telling the a rather unusual of his father’s death. Now slaughter of a family 75 and living in Sussex, by escaped prisoner friendship...” Jerry Stobbs revealed he Billy Hughes in the was never told the truth of Seventies. The widow his father’s double life or of a former journalist the circumstances of his death. That came colleague found a selection of his cuttings in his mid-forties, when his granddaughter whilst clearing out the loft and wondered was researching the family history and if they could form the basis of another true read about it in a crime magazine. crime story. They were his reports when Jerry says it’s nonsense that the family he covered the case from 1961 until 1965. could be harmed by release of the full I discovered that the official files on the facts of the case. He says my book has murders are sealed from public view until helped him finally come to terms with the year 2050 – NINETY years after that the full detail of his father’s murder. cyclist’s first horrendous discovery. The Editor’s Note: The Crooked Spire National Archive, the Director of Public Killings is available on Amazon (Kindle Prosecutions and Derbyshire Police deem and paperback) from December 1 at £11.95. the detail too shocking. They say revealing Readers can obtain a signed copy made out evidence given at the time might affect to the recipient via Alan@Hurndall.com at the mental health of witnesses and the the reduced price of £9.95, plus £2 P&P. victim’s families and would also breach data

67 Reflections December 2022

OUT & ABOUT

HEADING FOR THE

DERWENT

PAST OFFERTON HALL… Above: The lovely open farmland of the Derwent Valley. Picture by Dennis Kelsall.

HIS month’s walk begins in Shatton, where the River Noe joins the River Derwent, and climbs across fields to pick up a track to Offerton Hall. The pastoral flanks of Offerton Moor offer stunning views across the Derwent Valley. Taking to the fields again, the route drops through a wooded valley above Dunge Brook and down to the banks of the Derwent near Leadmill Bridge. The return follows the river upstream all the way back to Shatton. There is a sense of history on this walk for the old hall at Offerton, ancient tracks and stepping-stones across the river are reminders of a way of life that has all but gone. Another relic of the past lies only a short distance from the route: the shaft of an ancient way cross, dating from at least the 17th century, and known as Robin Hood’s Stoop. Above inset: Offerton Hall. Courtesy of Bench Architects.

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ROUTE 1 Walk back towards the main road, leaving the lane immediately before the bridge across the River Noe through a pinch stile on the right. A path signed to ‘Leadmill’ leads across a pretty side stream. Where the path then forks, branch right and rise across rough pasture to a stile. Walk upfield by the right-hand boundary, emerging over a stile at the top onto a narrow lane. 2 Following it left, there is a view across to the long line of impressive escarpments that step back in tiers above the northern flank of the valley. Where the lane shortly swings right into Garner House Farm, keep ahead through a gate on a field track signed to ‘Offerton’. The way continues at the edge of successive pastures, gently rising to a crest where Offerton Hall comes into view. The track dips sharply to cross a diminutive stream flowing from Old Clough. At a junction keep

right, climbing steeply to Offerton Hall. Remain with the main track as it winds between the several buildings, levelling beyond to run high along the valley side. 3 After 400 metres, watch for a path leaving over a stile on the left. (To see Robin Hood’s Stoop, walk along the lane for a further 200 metres; it stands in the field to the right). Climbing the stile, the path descends across hawthorn scrub into a small wood, there crossing a stream. Emerging from the trees, cross another meadow to come out onto a track at Callow Farm. Go left and then turn right through the middle one of three gates. A trod drops through a gap in an intervening wall to a gate at the edge of a walled wood. The ongoing path angles down across the steep, wooded valley-side of Dunge Brook. Beyond the trees, carry on across a sloping meadow to emerge through a gate at the bottom onto a track. 4 Go right, across Dunge Brook and climb away to meet the end of a lane at the entrance to Mount Pleasant Farm. Pass through a gate on the left and take a slanting course down the field towards the corner of a wood. Keep ahead with the boundary wall on your left. Walk on in a second field until you reach a wall stile. Over that, the path drops steeply down a wooded bank and then heads across a meadow to join a path beside the River Derwent near a derelict shed. To advertise call 01246 550488

OUT & ABOUT

FACT FILE

DISTANCE/TIME: 5.5miles (9km) TIME: Allow 3 hours START: Shatton, considerate roadside parking (Grid Ref: SK 203 825) OS MAP: Explorer OL1 Dark Peak

Above: Goose Neck Wood.

For refreshment, continue downstream to Leadmill Bridge, there clambering out over a stile onto the road. (The lead mill which gave the bridge its name was originally built to grind corn and finally ended up as a stone mason’s yard, the wheel then being used to power a saw and dressing hammer). The Plough Inn lies a short distance up to the right. 5 Retrace your steps from the pub to the

riverbank and head back upstream, passing a weir that impounded water to power the lead mill. The path shortly passes into Goose Nest Wood, where the banks are thickly carpeted with wild garlic and bluebells in late spring. Emerging from the trees, the path runs beside more pastures and, rounding a bend, brings Nether Hall on the opposite bank into view. 6 The way continues beside the river at the edge of grazing land, eventually passing into the fringe of more woodland where the confluence of the

TAKEN FROM: Peak District Waterside Walks, by Dennis Kelsall, £6.99 RRP, published by Northern Eye Books Ltd (www. northerneyebooks.co.uk). Part of a Top Ten series of walking books about the Peak District. There’s a special offer on this book for our readers: to get a 10 per cent discount on the book price, simply use the code ‘DEC10’ (postage and packaging will be extra).

Derwent with the Noe is largely obscured by trees. Meeting your outward path, carry on over the side stream to return to the lane at the edge of Shatton and complete the walk.

69 Reflections December 2022

LOCAL BUSINESS

SAIL THE WORLD... THE OLSEN WAY

Fred. Olsen Cruise Holidays faultless, fabulous and first class all the way Julie, one of the senior travel consultants at Martins World Travel Bolsover office, recently returned from a cruise adventure to the Mediterranean on board the Bolette one of four Fred Olsen’s mid-size cruise ships, all of which are equally impressive. JUST AS THE BRAEMAR, BALMORAL AND BOREALIS, THE BOLETTE HAS ITS OWN UNIQUE CHARACTERISTICS.

JULIE has travelled to many destinations and cruised on ships of all sizes over the decades, as she has continued to look after her many clients at Martins World Travel. The Bolette is one of her smaller cruise ship experiences, but as Julie said: “It was faultless in every respect and easy to find your way around. Friendly and helpful staff provided a level of service and detail generally only experienced on 5-star deluxe cruise lines. It was great to see such a mix of ages and a range of facilities and entertainment offering something for everyone.” The restaurant staff knew my personal preferences from the very first night aboard and nothing was too much trouble. The ships are the perfect size for ease of embarkation and disembarkation when visiting the interesting ports on the itinerary. Fred. Olsen cruise ships always dock close to the sights in all the ports and getting off on excursions or just 70 Reflections December 2022

wandering in one’s own time and pace is seamless and easy. Onboard facilities cater for everyone seeking smaller ship perfection, but big enough to provide a wealth of options, facilities, and activities. Swimming pools, health and wellness spas, gym, relaxing bars and lounges, entertainments theatre, and a wide selection of well-furnished cabins and suites provided the perfect mix. The cocktail-making evening and the wine-tasting experience were two of Julie’s favourite events, which provided the ideal recuperation from the jacuzzi, gym and the beauty spa. Julie also enjoyed the beautifully furnished spaces to relax each with their own individuality to suite all tastes. Fine Dining, superb food and attentive service on the cruise provided Julie with eight different dining experiences. Her favourites included…

menu, freshly prepared and cooked by their team of chefs.

THE BLOOMSBURY AND TERRACE RESTAURANTS

Influenced by the cultures and flavours of India, and named after the famous explorer Vasco Da Gama, Bolette’s Vasco restaurant offers a fresh and modern take on some of the world’s finest food. There is always a vast choice of destinations with Fred. Olsen Cruises including the

These elegant two-tiered main restaurants are at the heart of the Fred. Olsen dining experience on board the flagship. Every evening, guests can enjoy a delicious five-course, á la carte

THE VIEW Bolette’s buffet-dining venue is a wonderful treat created to be easy-going and relaxed. It has a light and open feel, with beautiful views of the ocean, and no formal dress codes and no set tables.

COLOURS & TASTES... SPECIALITY DINING... An evening at Bolette’s Colours & Tastes restaurant makes for an unforgettable dining experience – one that is sure to be the highlight of any cruise on board the flagship. Guests are invited to take a seat and settle into the colourful, yet intimate Far East-inspired surroundings and enjoy a real taste of Asia.

Mediterranean, Northern Lights in north Norway, and island cruising to the Canaries or Iceland or perhaps a river cruise.

WINTER AND SPRING CRUISES WITH SPECIAL SAVINGS January: Winter Warmth in the Canaries sailing from Tilbury, 14 nights from £1399pp Searching for the Northern Lights sailing from Liverpool 15 nights from £1699pp Mediterranean Islands & Cyprus sailing from Tilbury 19 nights from £1799pp. February: Civilisations of Cape Verde & Morocco sailing from Liverpool 18 nights from £1999pp.

VASCO

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LOCAL BUSINESS March: In search of the Northern Lights from Newcastle 9 nights from £1140pp. Escape to the Canaries from Southampton 13 nights from £1499pp

FRED. OLSEN BENEFITS… THAT SETS FRED. OLSEN APART…

• Fast and easy hasslefree boarding. • Staff who quickly tune in to your personal requirements April: and preferences. Easter on the Seine from • Lots of on-board facilities Southampton 5 nights from £599pp that are easy to locate. Exploring the Nordic Capitals • Cruise ships of the perfect size. from Newcastle from £1099pp • Excellent on-board Fred. Olsen Cruises offers entertainment and the widest range of superb dedicated crew. cruise itinerary adventures • Great ports of call with throughout the year – and all easy disembarkation and are at remarkable value! embarkation. Cruise ships dock close to each port. • Superb selection of cruise itineraries year round with four amazing ships to choose from. • Great value quality Fred Olsen has designed five cruise holidays. new Signature Experiences • Quality dining, entertainment which can be found on and cruising at its best. every Fred. Olsen sailing, • Choice of local departure ports. This innovative offer enables guests to get the most out Please feel free to visit the Martins of their cruise voyage World Travel shops in Bolsover • Sky at sea: star gazing and Chesterfield and speak to the with a nature scout or professional and friendly travel visiting astronomer. experts like Julie, who each have • Scenic discoveries: we take a wealth of knowledge and will the more fascinating routes. provide honest and accurate • Explore our ship at sea advice. Julie and her colleagues with small private tours are keen to help, and it is their and maritime guide dedication and enthusiasm that • Tastes of the region: culinary makes Martins World Travel one of traditions featuring the the most successful family-owned regions visited, cookery tours and demonstrations. travel companies in the region.

SIGNATURE EXPERIENCES… NEW FOR 2023

FEEL FREE TO CALL ON 01246 220020 or 01246 823763 Martins World Travel, 46 Knifesmithgate, Chesterfield, S40 1RQ T: 01246 220020 Martins World Travel, 25 Market Place, Bolsover, S44 6PN T: 01246 823763 martins-world-travel.co.uk www.1st4Cruises.co.uk Visit our website at www.reflections-magazine.com

71 Reflections December 2022

FEATURE

CHESTERFIELD ROTARY CELEBRATES ITS CENTENARY IN STYLE! President Paul Davies looks back at 100 years of the Chesterfield Rotary Club.

N November 1922, a small group of local people, brought together by newspaper

owner, Alderman Hawksley Edmunds, drew up plans for the formation of a new Rotary Club in Chesterfield. The inaugural meeting of the club was held on December 2 that year at the Station Hotel (subsequently renamed The Chesterfield Hotel, and now no longer in existence). On December 19, twenty-five people Top right: Paul Davies at the club’s centenary event. Left: The cover of the book to mark the club’s centenary.

gathered to receive its official “Charter”, and Chesterfield Rotary Club was born. This year, the current members of the club have been celebrating its centenary in style, and have been able to look back at the club’s outstanding achievements throughout its 100-year history. Members of the original club included family names still recognisable to local people today, including Markham, Robinson, Kenning and Shentall. The club then was a much more formal

Guests at Chesterfield Rotary Club’s centenary celebration at the Technique Stadium. 72 Reflections December 2022

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FEATURE

gathering than that which we see today. But it was held together by the same principles of “Service Above Self”, bringing together local business people to foster fellowship, to work for the benefit of others and provide service to the broader community. In the early days, club members would listen to talks about other members’ businesses and a wide range of other topics. As the club grew, so did the range of services that it provided to others, including over the years: • providing transport for servicemen coming home on leave in the Second World War; • supporting families affected by pit disasters; • joining Rotary International’s campaign to ‘End Polio’; • recycling un-needed pharmaceuticals, glasses and other items to developing countries; • supporting overseas travel to broaden the perspectives of young people; • welcoming parties of young people from overseas at international camps; • running projects for local

schools, including the Public Speaking contest which is still running after around 50 years; • taking youngsters on trips to the panto, and pensioners to knees-ups; and • raising hundreds of thousands of pounds for community projects and charities. A long list indeed! The club has produced a book providing an overview of its early years, the work it has done, and how it has developed into the active organisation that Chesterfield Rotary is today. The 100th anniversary was marked with a glittering celebration at the Technique Stadium on September 23 . The event had a 1920s theme and guests arrived attired in suitably flamboyant period dress. The 100 guests included members, families, friends, the Mayor and Mayoress of Chesterfield, members of other Rotary clubs, and representatives from charities and community groups whom the club has worked with during the last year. After a great meal, a jazz band accompanied some spectacular dancing.

The club’s regular festive fundraiser, Santa’s Sleigh.

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Joe and Ivona Bradley captured the 1920’s spirit at the centenary event. experience for new and A few years ago, the club younger members.” formed a new, ‘satellite’ group Vice President Ingrid of younger members, meeting Stopher said: “In the coming less regularly, and focusing year we will continue to more on projects to help support many good causes. others, while also enjoying a We will also be programme building links with of great social activities. In “We are proud local businesses to grow our profile. the coming to be carrying We’ll be working months it will be looking forward a great with schools and with carers’ groups to form new tradition.” on environmental partnerships projects, and with local supporting local businesses, groups who are helping to attract new members, and local people in need during to ensure that Chesterfield the current cost-of-living Rotary continues to play an crisis. And we’ll have important role in the lives some great social events of people across the town to join in with too.” and across the globe. To find out more about Club President Paul Davies Chesterfield Rotary, they said: “For those of us who meet monthly on the third have only been members for Wednesday of the month at a few years, it is humbling 5.30pm. Or you can contact: to think of all the years of Ingrid Stopher on 07860 636500 service provided by many or stopher599@btinternet.com; others over the last century. Paul Davies on 07753 605272 “We are proud to be or home@pauldavies.biz go carrying forward a great to www.chesterfieldrotary. tradition whilst, at the org.uk or Facebook : @ same time, making the club ChesterfieldRotary an exciting and enjoyable

73 Reflections December 2022

ANTIQUES

Silver ‘lace-like’ jewellery can be just as expensive as gold items By Vivienne Milburn FRICS Independent Antiques Auctioneer & Valuer EWELLERY that is like lace – filigree – is a form of intricate metalwork used in jewellery and other items. In jewellery, it is usually of gold and silver, made with tiny beads or twisted threads, or both in combination, soldered together or to the surface of an object and arranged in artistic motifs. It often looks lace-like and remains popular in Indian and other Asian metalwork. The Victorian filigree parure we have pictured right – comprising a bracelet, brooch, ear pendants and necklace, all with stylized flower head and scroll decoration – had been stored in a loft in Bakewell and made £800 in a recent specialist auction. The 19th century was a period of huge industrial and social change, but in jewellery design the focus was often

on the past. In the early 1800s, classical styles were popular, evoking the glories of ancient Greece and Rome. This interest in antiquities was stimulated by fresh archaeological discoveries. Goldsmiths attempted to revive ancient techniques and made jewellery that imitated, or was in the style of, archaeological jewellery, or jewels inspired by the Medieval and Renaissance periods. It is a testament to the period’s eclectic nature that famous jewellers, such as Castellani and Giuliano, worked in

archaeological and historical styles at the same time. From ancient times, the Saxons, Britons and Celts were all skilful in several kinds of goldsmiths’ work. Examples of filigree patterns laid down in wire on gold, from AngloSaxon tombs, may be seen in the British Museum, notably The Staffordshire Hoard of Anglo-Saxon gold and silver that was discovered in a field in Staffordshire, on July 5, 2009, which contains numerous examples of very fine filigree. Scandinavian jewellers also used silver filigree to make brooches and buttons, often 74 Reflections December 2022

Above: Victorian filigree parure comprising a bracelet, brooch, ear pendants and necklace, presented in a fitted case made £800 in the recent specialist jewellery auction. The case for the parure is also shown. Left: The Scandinavian design necklace and earrings are designed by Vivianna Torun Bülow-Hübe (1927 -2004), then working for Jensen. Often known simply as Torun, she was one of Sweden’s most important 20th Century silversmiths and a master jeweller. The silver necklace and ear stud suite is expected to make £400-600 in a forthcoming specialist auction.

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ANTIQUES with little chains and pendants added. Pieces like this are so often overlooked by well-meaning sorters of elderly relations’ estates. Some of these items were found in bags of what was described as “costume jewellery.” This is an exciting and developing market; as what was recently described as dated and old-fashioned jewellery is now selling for high prices in the right auction. A lot of the jewellery designers from this era are Scandinavian, perhaps the best known of these is Georg Arthur Jensen (18661935). Born in Copenhagen, he was the son of a knife grinder and began his training in goldsmithing at the age of 14. When his apprenticeship with the firm Guldsmed Andersen ended in 1884, it allowed young Georg to follow his artistic interests. Even as a child, Georg Jensen had longed to be a sculptor and he now pursued this course of study at the Royal Academy of Fine Arts and after his graduation in 1892, he began exhibiting his work. Although his clay sculpture was well received, making a living as a fine artist proved difficult and he turned his hand to the applied arts. First as a modeller at the Bing & Grøndahl porcelain factory, where his work was well received, but sales were not strong enough to support him, as he was by now a widower with two small sons. In 1901, he abandoned ceramics and began again as a silversmith and designer with the master, Mogens Ballin. This led Jensen to make a life-changing decision when, in 1904, he risked what small capital he had and opened his own small silversmithy in Copenhagen. His training in metalsmithing, along with his education in the fine arts, allowed him to combine the two disciplines and revive the tradition of the artist craftsman. Soon, the beauty and quality of his Art Nouveau creations caught the eye of the public and his success was assured. His Copenhagen base was greatly expanded and before the end of the 1920s, Jensen

A Georg Jensen labradorite and opal pendant. Marked Georg Jensen it made £1,830 and was found in a bag of costume jewellery in Sheffield.

had opened retail outlets as far away as New York, London, Paris, Stockholm and Berlin. The Georg Jensen pendant we have pictured was found in a bag of costume jewellery from a Sheffield house, when I was asked to value the contents of the property. The central stone is the slightly unusual but very iridescent labradorite, a feldspar mineral which is greenish-blue and grey-brown in colour and is from Labrador in Canada. It has also been found in Norway and various other locations worldwide. Its unusual iridescence is termed labradorescence and this example made £1,830 in a modern design jewellery auction. Editor’s Note: Perhaps you have vintage items, antiques and fine arts that might be valuable? If so, it is worth getting the advice of an Independent Antiques Valuer to assess them. For further information, please contact Vivienne on 01629 640210 or 07870 238788; or go to www.viviennemilburn. co.uk or email vivienne@ viviennemilburn.co.uk

Have you discovered something valuable? To have your find valued and sold in a suitable auction, contact Vivienne on 01629 640210. Visit our website at www.reflections-magazine.com

75 Reflections December 2022

COUNTYWIDE NEWS

Above: Jamie Hadleigh (centre) with hosts Kate Jeffery and Errol Douglas after receiving his Stylist of the Year award.

Matlock salon wins four ‘Oscars’! A MATLOCK salon has won four awards from the ‘Oscars’ of the hairdressing world. In this year’s Salon Awards, Aspire Creative at Matlock Green won Best Salon Team, Best Colour Salon and Best Customer Experience. And its joint owner and creative director, Jamie Hadleigh, won the Stylist of the Year award. Almost a thousand hair professionals

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– including the full Aspire Creative team, who won the Best New Salon title in the 2021 awards – attended the award ceremony at the Leonardo Royal Hotel in London last month. The event was co-hosted by Errol Douglas MBE and awards founder Kate Jeffery. Ashley Orwin, joint owner and salon manager, said: “We are just so proud of all our team, and delighted that our awards reflect more than just incredible hairdressing, but the experience and environment our salon family creates.”

Choir goes back to where it began BAKEWELL and District Community Choir (BADCC) is heading back to where it all began, nearly seven years ago. From now on, the choir’s regular Wednesday night practices, from 7-9pm, will be at the Friends’ Meeting House in Chapel Lane, Bakewell. It was formed at a meeting attended by over 100 people held at the Meeting House in 2016. The choir is led by Lester Simpson of Wirksworth, who also leads the Raise your Voices choir in Wirksworth. Lester said:

“BADCC are a group of people who just love the joy of singing together. There’s no audition to join, just a willingness to enjoy making music together.” The choir extends a warm welcome to new members. If you are interested, call John McGough on 01629 814167 or 07972 717279; or just turn up on a Wednesday night!

Trust’s new Chief Operating Officer CHESTERFIELD Royal Hospital NHS Foundation Trust is proud to announce the appointment of a new, experienced Chief Operating Officer. Michelle Veitch, who is currently Chief Operating Officer at Rotherham Doncaster and South Humber NHS Foundation Trust, will take up the post at Chesterfield in March next year. Michelle said: “I’m incredibly excited for the new role and challenge of working at Chesterfield Royal Hospital. “Chesterfield has an excellent reputation for patient care and quality services, and I look forward to bringing the lessons I have learnt from my career to support Chesterfield and its community.” Michelle replaces Berenice Groves, who is due to leave the Trust at the end of the year.

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Fruit liqueurs

to savour…

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WINDING WHEEL

BUXTON OPERA HOUSE

SHEFFIELD CITY HALL

Dec 6-Jan 3: Sleeping Beauty

Dec 16: Rick Wakeman’s Grumpy Christmas Stocking Tour

Dec 16: Jimmy Carr: Terribly Funny Tour

ICON KEY Film

Music

Kids

Live

Dance Comedy Talk

BOX OFFICE: 0114 249 6000 www.sheffieldtheatres.co.uk

DEC BOX OFFICE:01246 345 222 www.chesterfieldtheatres.co.uk

Dec 6 – Jan 3 Sleeping Beauty Pantomime

BOX OFFICE: 01298 72190 www.buxtonoperahouse.org.uk

DEC

2 – Jan 3 2 5 10-Jan 21 13-31 13-15

Triangle of Sadness (15)

Georgie Malcolm (Pavilion Arts Centre)

Buxton Buzz Comedy Club

10 – Jan 1

Sleeping Beauty

10-15

Living (12A) (Pavilion Arts Centre)

Cara Dillon: Upon A Winter’s Night (Pavilion Arts Centre)

Utama (Pavilion Arts Centre)

Platform 3 Christmas Sharing (Pavilion Arts Centre)

Rick Wakeman’s Grumpy Christmas Stocking Tour

16-18

Call Jane (12) (Pavilion Arts Centre)

Houghton Weavers Christmas Concert (Pavilion Arts Centre)

6 7

A Bunch of Amateurs (12A) (Pavilion Arts Centre)

The Brighouse & Rastrick Band

The Grand Boxing Day Concert

30 – Jan 5

Bones and All (15) (Pavilion Arts Centre)

New Year’s Eve Gala Concert

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Jack and the Beanstalk (Lyceum) Chopin Works for Solo Piano (Playhouse) Tanya Moiseiwitsch Standing at the Sky’s Edge (Crucible) Jack Frost and The Search For Winter (Playhouse) Sanctuary (Library Theatre) BOX OFFICE: 0114 2 789 789 www.sheffieldcityhall.co.uk

DEC

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8-13 14 15 16 17

17 27- Jan 8

Atomic 80s Manor Operatic Society presents Cinderella BOX OFFICE: 01142565656 www.sheffieldarena.co.uk

DEC

2 3 9 14-18 21 26 31

N-Dubz Steelers v Cardiff Devils Paul Heaton and Jacqui Abbott Disney On Ice presents Dream Big Steelers v Dundee Stars Steelers v Nottingham Panthers Steelers v Manchesterv Storm

Other Events The Sensational 60s Experience The Bootleg Beatles The Glen Miller Orchestra Joanne Shaw Taylor Michael Starring Ben Neil Sands Presents: Christmas Memories The Muppet Christmas Carol (with live orchestra) Love Actually (with live orchestra) East 17 with special guests S Club & Blazing Squad Strictly Ballroom: The Musical The Snowman Tour Magic of Motown Jimmy Carr: Terribly Funny Tour Black Dyke Band and Sheffield Philharmonic Christmas Carol Concert

DEC

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Mercatum Winter Artisan Market at Haddon Hall. Some of the finest artisans in the country will be at this event. Visitors are invited to weave their way round the grounds, starting in front of the Stables before moving into the Lower Courtyard and the Banqueting Hall. For more information visit: www.haddonhall.co.uk

1- Jan 8

Nordic Christmas at Chatsworth. Step inside Chatsworth House and be magically transported to the mystical frozen realms of the far north. For more information visit: www.chatsworth.org

3-4

Breakfast with Santa at Matlock Farm Park. Pre-book event only. Your day will start with a group welcome from Santa and a delicious breakfast served in the Garden Room Cafe. Each family will then be taken by Santa’s elf to try out the Naughty-or-Nice o’meter,

before visiting Santa in his grotto to chat all about your Christmas wishes – children will receive a lovely gift! The event starts at 9am prompt, when breakfast will be served. Including visiting Santa, the event will last up to 90 minutes and farm park entry for the remainder of the day is included! 3

Bel Canto Christmas Coffee Concert at 11am in All Saints’ Church, Bakewell. Entrance is free. Join Bel Canto ladies’ choir to experience the Sounds of Christmas, with exquisite pieces by Elgar, Lauridsen, Mathias and Stopford. There will be a collection at the end in aid of the organ restoration appeal.

3-4, 10-11, 17-18 & 24 Christmas Carol Concert at Peak Cavern, Castleton. It’s hard to imagine a more atmospheric venue for a carol concert. On arrival you are greeted by our friendly helpers offering mulled wine and mince pies. The brass bands, aided by compere Barry Jarvis, will play a variety of Christmas favourites. For more information, visit www.peakcavern.co.uk 3

Santa on the Chesterfield Canal – Tapton Lock. Santa Claus will be cruising the Chesterfield Canal on the John Varley narrowboat. There is a present for every child and a mince pie and a drink for every adult. Board the John Varley at Tapton Lock, on the Tesco roundabout in Chesterfield. £9 per ticket.

SHINE A LIGHT’ AT THE ROUNDHOUSE AFTER successful ‘Shine a Light’ events at Cromford Mills and Elvaston Castle last month, the light-and-sound extravaganza moves on to Barrow Hill Roundhouse on December 8 and 9. The four cutting-edge projections are shown every 20 minutes through the evening, and there is also other entertainment and food and drink is available. Tickets cost £9 for adults, and £6 for 4-16 year old children (those aged three and under admitted free). ‘Shine A Light’ moves onto Hardwick Hall on February 17 and 18, 2023. For more information and to book, visit www.visitpeakdistrict.com Below: A ‘Shine A Light’ projection at Cromford Mills last month. Picture by Simon Hampton.

A ‘MERRY MIXTURE’ AT A CHRISTMAS CONCERT! MATLOCK G&S Singers, who meet weekly at All Saint’s Church Hall, Matlock, are in merry mood. 2022 marks their 30th anniversary as a choir, and musical director Melanie Gilbert wants to make this year’s Christmas concert the best ever. Says Melanie: “Our programme will mix traditional carols with well-loved opera choruses, seasonal songs and solos. We’ll affectionately remember our late Queen, and also sing something to herald the coronation of King Charles III.”

3,4,10,11,17,18,19,20,21,22,23,24 Santa’s Grotto at Chesterfield Market Hall. After two years of only seeing him through the Santa Zoomer, come along and meet him on the balcony at the Market Hall. You can tell Santa what you would like for Christmas, and he’ll give you a present to go under your tree. Make sure the person bringing you doesn’t forget their phone so they can take a photo. £6.50 per ticket. 3 – 19 Santa’s Grotto at The Three Merry Lads. Main road, Cutthorpe. Chesterfield S40 7AJ. Ticket-only event. £8.00 per child (includes present). Timed visits, please be prompt each day. The first visit is at 9.30 am – the last at 4.30 pm (free parking). Book early to secure your time slot, call 07746 952455. The ticket line is open: 10am - 4pm. The December dates with Santa are: Sat 3rd and Sunday 4th, Friday 9th, Saturday 10th, Sunday 11th, Monday 12th, Friday 16th, Saturday 17th,

The G&S Singer’s Christmas concert takes place on Sunday 11th December, at 3pm. The venue is the ‘Lime Tree’ (Church in the Peak), Lime Tree Road, Matlock, DE4 3EJ, where ample free parking is available. Tickets are £10, available on the door, or reserve in advance by ringing Sue, the choir chairman, on 0780 750 3367. Above: Matlock G&S Singers before last year’s Christmas concert.

Sunday 18th and Monday 19th. Food and Drinks are available in the bar area (to be paid for at the bar). Booking is advised for lunches via Facebook. Christingle Service at St Peter & St Paul’s Church, Old Brampton. Service at 9.30am – all welcome. With candles in oranges – raising funds for the Children’s Society. Refreshments afterwards in the Schoolroom. Revolution House Carol Concert. You can join Holymoorside Brass Band in the garden for carol singing from 6.30pm (song sheets supplied). Admission is free but donations are welcome. Bad weather will lead to the event being cancelled. Holymoorside Band Christmas Concert, with guests from Chesterfield Studios. 7.30pm-9.30pm at St Thomas’ Church, Brampton, S40 3AW. Chesterfield Fire Station Christmas Charity Craft Fair. There will be fire demonstrations on the day, over 35 independent craft stalls, a chance to meet the crew and look around the appliances and a chance to meet Santa himself! Free entry. Derby Santa Fun Run at Markeaton Park is set to be filled with Santas who are invited to take on either the 2.5km route (one lap) or the 5km route (two laps). Chesterfield Philharmonic Choir invite you to join them at The Crooked Spire at 2.30pm, when they will perform Christmas carols and songs accompanied by our new accompanist Kathleen Hesford, together with musical director Steven Roberts. There is also Continued on 80

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a guest choir, Honley Male Voice Choir. Ticket prices are adults £12, students and unemployed £6 and children admitted free. Tickets are available from the choir’s website, Chesterfield Visitor Information Centre, choir members and you can pay at the door. Christmas Festival at Derby Cathedral. Derby Concert Band will perform from 7.30pm, with special guests, the Derventio Choir. Tickets are available at www.ticketsource. co.uk/derby-concert-band Christmas at St Peter & St Paul’s Church, Old Brampton. Candlelit Carol Service, 7pm. A warm welcome for everyone Carols by Candlelight at The Whitworth. Join in with some festive favourites and enjoy the beautiful sounds of Wirksworth Community Choir. Mulled wine and festive treats will be available. Standard Ticket - £8, Premium Ticket

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- £12 (a premium ticket includes a festive cocktail and a minced pie). A non-alcoholic festive cocktail can be provided (anyone believed to be under the age of 18 will be provided with a non-alcoholic cocktail, unless they have valid ID, as The Whitworth operates a ‘Prove It 21’ scheme.) St Peter & St Paul’s Church, Old Brampton. Nativity Service for all the family at 4pm; and a Candlelit Midnight Mass: 11:30pm. St Peter & St Paul’s Church, Old Brampton. Christmas Day Service at 10am.

ART IS NOT JUST FOR CHRISTMAS… THERE’S an exhibition this month entitled just that at Dronfield Hall Barn, High Street, Dronfield. Running from December 12-18 inclusive, it’s an exhibition of paintings, collages, prints and sculpture by three artists, Susan Dodd, Kate Evans and Penny Kealey.

ASTRONAUT HEADS TO BUXTON BRITISH astronaut Tim Peake (pictured) heads to Buxton with his one-man show My Journey To Space. Tim made history in 2015 as the first British astronaut to visit the International Space Station. In 2021, he embarked on his debut tour of My Journey To Space, giving audiences a fascinating insight into life as an astronaut, complete with breath-taking photographs and footage. Now, the tour is being extended into next year and Tim will visit Buxton Opera House on Wednesday, March 22. Only a few tickets remain, available from www.fane. co.uk/timpeake or direct from the venue.

SUBMIT YOUR LISTING OR EVENT

Please email your information including dates to whatson@reflections-magazine.com before December 6th, 2022, to appear in the January 2023 issue.

80 Reflections December 2022

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