Reflections Magazine January 2026

January 2026

… and Happy New Year!

January begins with celebrations and resolutions for positive change yet, like many people, I’ve always found it to be a challenging month.

Dark mornings and evenings, cold weather and the return to routine after the festive season always impacts my mood. So, for this edition, I asked wellness and wellbeing experts for advice –much of which I’ll be following – on how to not only survive, but thrive, in January.

It’s widely acknowledged that gentle walks in nature are beneficial for our mental and physical health – but how well do we really understand the natural world around us? Step forward wildlife artist and writer Eileen Turner who, in a new book, guides us through a year in the country.

One person who loves winter is writer and photographer Peter Wigglesworth, who shares insights into the behaviour of Derbyshire’s mammals, birds, reptiles and amphibians at this time of year.

There are many more features to inform and inspire – from the confidence and connection offered by an all-female walking group to a conversation with Derbyshire’s Emmy Statham, on the brink of pop success. There’s history, food, news – and a visit to our flourishing independent cinemas.

We hope you enjoy this first Reflections of 2026 and wish you the very best for the year ahead.

Hope 2026 will be happy and healthy

REFLECTIONS MAGAZINE JANUARY 2026

Editor: Fiona Stubbs

E: editor@bannisterpublications.co.uk

Advertising: Mike Snow, M: 07966 445452 E: mikes@bannisterpublications.co.uk

Advertising: Helen Wragg, M: 07973 672582 E: helen@bannisterpublications.co.uk

Managing Director/Photographer: Robert Bannister, E: robert@bannisterpublications.com

Art Editor: Ben Fletcher-Bates, E: design@reflections-magazine.com

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Published by: Bannister Publications Ltd. Tel. 01246 550 488 (3 lines). Bannister Publications Limited, Office 2A Market Hall, Market Pl, Chesterfield, Derbyshire. S40 1AR. 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,

News 14, 44, 64, 81

16 In step with the seasons

Weaving together nature writing, memoir and local history … wildlife artist Eileen Turner shares the inspiration for her new book with Fiona Stubbs

24 Photographic competition

Announcing the winner of our 2025 competition –and the first entries for our new contest, Derbyshire Through The Seasons

26 Beating the January Blues

Does deep midwinter leave you feeling low? Fiona Stubbs asks wellness experts for advice on how to survive – and thrive – in January

46 Reflections Rewind

A journey through our archives to January 1994

50 Gurls That Walk

Faye Bramley discovers how an all-female walking group is helping women to find confidence, connection and a reason to get outside

52 Antiques

Our antiques expert

Vivienne Milburn highlights a ship’s captain’s writing box - a miniature office during long sea voyages in the 19th century

59 Crossword

62 Wildlife in Winter

The winter months can be a perfect time for experiencing wildlife on the Peak District moors – and closer to home, as Peter Wigglesworth explains

Cover: Winter Hare by Eileen Turner

65 A lighter start to the New Year

After the festive season’s rich foods, Sara Price suggests a little seasonal simplicity

68 Silver screens and sofas

Charlotte Tait visits Derbyshire’s thriving independent cinemas

74 Fashionably late, right on time

Fiona Stubbs meets Derbyshire singer Emmy

Statham of pop act XO - tipped to be Britain’s next major girl band

76 A history walk in Belper

When a Belper business began renovating one of the town’s most historic buildings, it sparked renewed interest in the area’s past, as Jo Gotheridge reports

80 What’s On Our guide to events in January

Countywide News

Canal Trust boost from two grants

THE Chesterfield Canal Trust has been awarded two community grants totalling over £15,000, from the Co-op and the National Lottery Community Fund.

In October of 2024, the Trust was one of the causes for which Co-op members could vote to receive a grant from its Local Community Fund. When all the votes were totted up in October of this year, the Trust’s share totalled £2,531.

This will go towards restoring the canal and creating a waterside space for the community and wildlife in Renishaw, with trees, picnic benches, wildflowers and aquatic habitats, all undertaken by local volunteers.

In November, the Trust discovered that its bid to the National Lottery Community Fund had been accepted and it was awarded £12,880 from the Awards for All (Environment) programme, which is aimed at community-led projects that tackle the climate and nature emergency, improve the environment and help people connect with and enjoy nature locally.

The focus of the bid was on recruiting new volunteers from the community to care for and develop their local green spaces. It also covered training in good ecological practice, surveying and use of specialist equipment.

Mitchells merges into SMH Group

MITCHELLS Chartered Accountants and Business Advisers has joined SMH Group, one of the region’s leading professional services firms with offices across Yorkshire and Derbyshire.

The firm will now operate as SMH Mitchells and will continue to serve clients from its Chesterfield office. All existing staff will remain in place and fee structures will also remain the same, ensuring continuity for all clients.

As part of SMH Group, Mitchells will now have access to a wider range of in-house services including Financial Services, Wills and Probate, Commercial Finance and Residential Mortgages.

Sheffield Girls’ GDST named 2026 Independent Secondary School of the Year in the North Sheffield Girls’ GDST has been named Independent Secondary School of the Year in the North 2026 in the Sunday Times Parent Power School Guide.

The accolade recognises academic achievement, teaching and personal development across the school.

Sheffield Girls’ is a member of the Girls’ Day School School Trust (GDST) and is an independent school for approx 750 girls between the ages of four and 18.

Rebrand for Chesterfield business site following acquisition

A Chesterfield industrial site has been rebranded as Cobnar Wood Business Park after being acquired by DBSUK, a leading Midlands-based property agent specialising in industrial and commercial real estate.

The site, off Cobnar Wood Close, is a key addition to DBSUK’s growing national portfolio and has been rebranded to reflect its natural surroundings and nearby woodland.

Mark Darlaston, Director of DBSUK, said: “The acquisition of Cobnar Wood Business Park represents an important step in DBSUK’s strategy to strengthen our industrial property holdings in key regional markets. Chesterfield is a thriving and strategically located industrial hub and this site provides an ideal blend of stable rental income and future growth potential.”

Chesterfield canal trustee Steve Waller drives a Truxor weed cutter.

Cobnar Wood Business Park

In step with the seasons

In a new book, artist Eileen Turner weaves together nature writing, memoir and local history - all rooted in the landscapes of the Derwent Valley. Part journal, part love letter to the countryside, it gives a fascinating glimpse into the natural world, as Fiona Stubbs discovers

THIS is my inspiration,” smiles Eileen Turner as she gestures to the breathtaking landscape beyond her sitting room window, Lush, wooded hillsides of native trees sweep across the Derwent Valley, feeding the creativity of professional wildlife artist Eileen throughout the seasons.

Now, her lifelong love of nature is reflected in words and illustrations in her newly published book, The Moon Marks Out the Seasons – A Year in the Country and Other Tales.

“It’s a journal of my walks throughout the months of a year,” explains Eileen. “As I walk across open fields and high in the hills, I often have the most wonderful experience, discovering nature and witnessing how the light affects the landscape.”

Eileen relaxes at home with her Airedale, Dylan

Left: A Peak District mountain hare, in its winter white coat, shelters in a snow storm

Above: A winter’s day in Derbyshire

Right: Eileen’s painting of the two Little Owls sitting sleepily on the branch of an ash tree

Eileen guides the reader through the triumphs and challenges of the natural world, with particular reference to her personal favourites, the brown hare and songbirds.

Her love affair with hares began when she lived in the Peak District. “Hares became predominant in my work when my husband John and I were living in the wilds of the Staffordshire Moorlands,” she says. “We had baby hares in the garden – it was absolutely magical.”

Nature preservation is close to her heart and her concern for songbirds – with many species experiencing a drastic decline in population - is a running theme throughout the book.

Eileen grew up in South Wingfield and recalls: “As a child, my grandmother took me on many walks into the countryside where she would point out the different wildflowers, giving them their old country names.

“My father was passionate about nature, mainly the birds and animals. He would also take me on walks, pointing out the different kind of birds. He could see things that were well hidden and taught me to use my eyes to see beyond the superficial. We would sit outside in the garden at dusk and listen to the sounds of the night coming

on – owls, bats and foxes; the snuffle of a hedgehog making its way across the lawn.

“I feel a responsibility to share what I’ve learned about nature during my life,” says Eileen. “I just don’t want that knowledge to disappear.”

“I became acutely aware of my surroundings in the natural world and developed a deep understanding of how creatures co-exist alongside humans.”

Eileen has always painted but began to pursue her craft professionally 25 years ago after leaving her previous career in the Civil Service, developing a style often reminiscent of folk art.

Folklore and tradition are also key elements of the book, featuring strongly as ‘other tales’.

“I’m fascinated by folklore and tradition,” reveals Eileen. “I fear that people are so glued to their phones now that old customs are disappearing. People lose contact

January

It had been snowing all night. We knew that it had when we awoke, even though it was still pitch dark outside. Beyond the warm house there was a muffled stillness and silence, as if someone had thrown a blanket over the world and it was in a deep sleep.

The previous few days had been cold, very cold. There was thick ice on the surface of the pond and many birds had been eager to find food on our fat ball feeders. Then, at bedtime, tiny spots of white dust, like flakes of ash from a newly lit log stove, started to fall from the leaden sky – so tiny that they were hardly visible. We went to bed hardly thinking about them.

How dark the mornings are and the evenings arrive so quickly in the afternoon. It is cold and wet outside with driving rain. So we light fires for comfort and long for spring.

Then – joy – I see my first snowdrops, still in bud but their beautiful white waxen petals can be seen peeping from under their green hoods. A little further on there are blades of daffodil leaves, showing grey green against the bright winter grass. The days are very short but here and there are signs of better things to come, as tiny shoots push their way through the cold earth.

One morning, whilst walking down the ancient fields, I disturb two Little Owls who are sitting sleepily on the branch of an ash tree. The pair are difficult to spot at first as their feathers blend perfectly with the bark.

Every outing, even in winter, when walking in the countryside, will reveal wildlife and beautiful moments if we watch and look quietly, with careful eyes.

Nature pays us so generously if we live in a way that is connected to it. We could miss out on so many things if we don’t take the time to live in the moment, observe the vegetation, trees, birds and animals which live alongside us.

• Excerpts taken from January’s chapter in The Moon Marks the Seasons - A Year in the Country and Other Tales

Above: A hare hurtles through a snowy landscape in this folk art inspired painting

Top right: Hare with moonshadows

with nature and their surroundings, becoming unaware of the presence of the past in the area where they live.”

The past is certainly all around Eileen’s home in the Derwent Valley, which she shares with her husband John and their two Airedales, Dylan and Tweedie. In certain light, she can still make out the outline of Medieval ridge and furrow farming in nearby fields while, a short distance downstream, is the Derwent Valley Mills UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognised as the birthplace of the factory system during the Industrial Revolution.

The area is steeped in local history, made famous by former local residents such as Florence Nightingale and Sir Anthony Babington, with his connection to Mary Queen of Scots who was imprisoned at South Wingfield Manor.

“I feel a responsibility to share what I’ve learned about nature during my life,” says Eileen. “I just don’t want that knowledge to disappear.”

The title of the book was partly inspired by Psalm 104 in the Bible.

The moon marks off the seasons

And the sun knows when to go down

You bring darkness, it becomes night

And all the beasts of the forest prowl.

“Psalms are poems written thousands of years ago,” explains Eileen. “The way this one is written is so beautiful.”

While the view from Eileen’s sitting room is stunning, she says it is even more mesmerising from her studio upstairs.

“Every day, when I sit at my desk to paint, I look at that view and I can’t believe that I live here,” she says. “The front cover of the book is the view from my

studio window. Every month of the year is beautiful and I just want to share it.”

She adds: “I hope my writing will inspire people to enjoy the natural world and its creatures in a meaningful way in order to help safeguard wildlife and songbirds and help their survival in the future.”

• The Moon Marks Out the Seasons – A Year in the Country and Other Tales is published by Bannister Publications and is available, priced £25, from Scarthin Books at Cromford or by emailing turnerart@btinternet.com

Above: Eileen with her book in her sitting room

HEALING IN THE HEART OF BAKEWELL

IT’S no secret that modern life is impacting our bodies and health.

From aches and pains to burnout to chronic conditions, many of us are struggling with the effects of everyday stresses and environmental factors.

Holly Johnson has personal experience after struggling for years with her physical and mental health. Now she is helping others to heal with the launch of LumiOx wellness clinic in Bakewell.

LumiOx offers treatments including infrared saunas, cold water therapy, red light therapy and hyperbaric oxygen.

“These aren’t passing fads, they’re approaches backed by research and they help to manage inflammation, reduce pain and regain energy,” says Holly. “These are already widely used by athletes for boosting circulation, reducing muscle soreness and accelerating healing.”

Inflammation is the body’s natural response to infections, injury, toxins and

trauma. But it’s now widely recognised that chronic stresses – from diet and sedentary lifestyles to lack of natural light and too much screen time – are putting our bodies on constant alert, wearing down our immunity and increasing inflammation. This in turn can lead to – or exacerbate –a myriad of chronic health conditions.

Holly’s own health improved after discovering the

therapies when she was at her lowest point, suffering from both fibromyalgia – which causes debilitating painand autoimmune disease lupus.

“I was bedridden and really poorly,” she explains. “For most of my life, I lived with unexplained pain, fatigue and mental health struggles. Doctors told me it was ‘all in my head’ and I was given wrong medications. It was frustrating, lonely and exhausting –and, for years, I just pushed through.

“In my early thirties, I was diagnosed with ADHD. Suddenly, so much of my past made sense - the constant sense of being overwhelmed, the mental burnout, the way I was always fighting to keep up while running on empty. That diagnosis gave me a new perspective, but my health challenges were still on-going.

“Finally, in my mid-thirties, I received the diagnoses of lupus and fibromyalgia. It was a turning point

Discover the LumiOx experience

Light, Fire & Ice – a private wellness experience where luxury meets science

Available to experience alone or to share with up to two guests, you’ll have exclusive use of a top-of-the-range infrared sauna, ice bath and red light therapy – professional equipment which delivers science-backed results in a relaxing sanctuary of complete calm and tranquility.

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT)

These chambers deliver oxygen at a higher atmospheric pressure, allowing your body to absorb up to three times more oxygen than usual.

This extra oxygen goes directly into your bloodstream, promoting healing, reducing inflammation and boosting overall energy.

Better Pelvi

We are partnering with the incredible Better Pelvi, the perfect solution for issues including incontinence, sexual dysfunction or back pain.

Around 25% of the population suffers from the symptoms of pelvic floor weakness, significantly impacting their quality of life.

– painful and frightening, but also a relief to finally have an answer.

“I decided to change everything. I left my career in finance, invested my life savings and put my whole heart into creating something I wish I’d had years ago: a space for science-backed wellness, recovery and community.

“Alongside NHS care, these therapies have given me a sense of control over my body again. They’re not claiming to cure conditions but can significantly aid recovery – or prevent them developing in the first place. They are for people of all ages and genders and my aim is to make the treatments as affordable and accessible as possible.

pelvic floor far more effectively than exercise alone could achieve.

All treatments – which also include massage therapies – allow clients to escape their busy lives for a while and to relax in calm, restorative surroundings.

“WE HAVE FIVE STAFF, THREE OF WHOM ARE NURSES …”

LumiOx is, however, more than technology and treatments. It’s a community hub with talks, workshops and coaching sessions led by nurses and health professionals on subjects from stress and burnout to menopause.

“We have five staff, three of whom are nurses,” adds Holly. “Everybody is fully trained and very knowledgeable and just the best group of people.

Experience LumiOx therapies

Platelet-rich plasma therapy

Samantha is a nurse with over 20 years of experience and 12 years specialising in cosmetic nursing. She is very experienced in regenerative treatments, including Platelet-Rich Plasma, helping rejuvenate skin, restore hair and support sexual wellness.

Health and wellness coaching

Catherine Scott is a qualified nurse, certified health and wellness coach, and a full member of the UK & International Health Coaching Association (UKIHCA). Catherine specialises in supporting women to reclaim their energy, confidence and joy during midlife and beyond.

“I think we’re getting to a point now where we can’t just rely on medication – people need to be more proactive about their health.”

Another treatment sure to prove popular is the Better Pelvi chair – strengthening the pelvic floor and improving symptoms such as urinary incontinence for both women and men. Using high-intensity electromagnetic energy, it stimulates muscle contractions, exercising the

“Whether you’re living with chronic illness, feeling burnt out from everyday life or simply curious about proactive health and longevity, there’s a place for you here – it’s all great for anti-ageing, too!”

LumiOx

12b Deepdale Business Park

Buxton Road, Bakewell DE45 1GT

Email: info@lumiox.co.uk www.lumiox.co.uk

Sports massage and holistic therapies

Laura Peters, with over 13 years’ experience, offers sports massage, dry needling, medical acupuncture and deep tissue facial massage. Working with clients of all ages, her holistic approach helps athletes and anyone managing chronic pain.

Our 2025 Winner!

Congratulations to Diana Lee, who has been voted the winner of our 2025 picture competition by Reflectionsreaders.

DIANA’S stunning image of hot air balloons taking flight in the early morning at Chatsworth clinched first place in our contest, themed around Derbyshire’s Events & Attractions.

Derbyshire through the seasons

OUR new picture competition for 2026 is already well underway.

Dedicated amateur photographers have been quick to capture early winter scenes for this year’s contest – Derbyshire Through the Seasons.

Russ Teale, from Newbold, shares this atmospheric shot which he describes as a ‘murky morning at Sheepbridge Ponds.’ Meanwhile, Brenda Newsam of Winster was perfectly placed to take this beautifully timeless image of Castleton at dusk.

The pictures you send in must be taken in 2026 and must be in Derbyshire. You can enter as many times as you like. Entries must be from amateur photographers and drone images or software-altered pictures will not be accepted.

Please email your entries to editor@bannisterpublications. co.uk, giving your full name and address, a contact telephone number and a description (including the date it was taken) of the image, which should be attached as a high res jpeg.

Diana, from Drakelow, wins a meal for two at a top local restaurant and the chance to have a selection of her photographs published in a forthcoming edition of Reflections

Beating Januarythe Blues …

For many, the first month of the year is the most challenging. Dark mornings and evenings, financial stress after festive spending, the pressure to start - and keep - new resolutions. The list goes on. But what if we could find comfort - and even enjoyment - in January, instead of just wishing it away?

Fiona Stubbs asks wellness and wellbeing experts how we can not only survive but thrive throughout this longest of months.

Food for thought

Jo Bibby is a nutritional wellness coach and founder of The Energised Woman, supporting busy women to overcome exhaustion and overwhelm through simple habits

“NUTRITION and rest are so connected. Winter is a time to be really kind to yourself – I wouldn’t advise anything radical in January.

“There’s no need to suddenly give up certain foods or feel bad about yourself for indulging over Christmas. It’s ok to have times of celebration and feasting without guilt and enjoying connections with others is an important part of wellbeing.

you eat seasonally, it’s generally cheaper and more sustainable.

“It’s also important to make sure you get enough balance in each meal – carbohydrates, protein and healthy fats. Having that balance will keep you full and energised. January is a good time to stay at home and experiment with cooking nice things like soups.

“If you’re feeling a bit sluggish and rundown in January, you could look to make some little tweaks to your diet.”

“If you’re feeling a bit sluggish and rundown in January, you could look to make some little tweaks to your diet. I like to focus on what you can add rather than take away. What foods will help you to feel your best again? It’s a more positive mindset.

“Think about your gut health, which impacts every area of wellbeing, including energy and mood. Your gut loves plants, so check out a range of seasonal fruit and vegetables along with pulses, nuts and seeds. When

“During winter, we naturally feel the need to rest more – and we should give ourselves permission to slow down. Resting supports the digestive system - if we’re busy and stressed all the time, our bodies don’t absorb nutrients as effectively.

“However, it’s important not to withdraw completely. It’s good for us to do some gentle exercise in winter – whichever works best for you. Try to get outside for half an hour every day and make time for positive connections with others.”

www.theenergisedwoman.com

A tasty - yet healthy - treat. Jo Bibby with a bowl of hazelnut energy bites. Picture: Helen Rowan Photography

A holistic approach

Bronwyn Benstead is a somatic coach and, with Kevin Karaca, co-founder of Folc Studio, a social enterprise supporting people to cultivate physical, mental and emotional wellbeing. It runs movement and mindfulness classes like yoga, pilates and group gatherings, all focused on connecting people to self, to others and to new ideas

“FOR most of human history, our lives were shaped by the seasons. Winter was never meant to be a time of pushing or striving.

The harvest was over, the fields didn’t need tending and shorter days meant it was a natural pause.

reinvent ourselves, it’s no surprise we struggle. While

“For most of human history, our lives were shaped by the seasons.”

“So, when January arrives and the world insists we

“New Year, New Me” is everywhere, it isn’t a rule. We can approach this time of year with care. Working with the natural rhythms rather than against them.

“Somatic coaching uses body-based practices alongside reflective coaching to help you

understand your emotions, release tension, regulate stress and make authentic decisions for lasting change.

“A few things you can try include:

Notice the little things

Look for moments to be mindful. That could be noticing the warmth of the sun on your skin, tuning into birdsong, or taking three slower, deeper breaths. These tiny pauses help anchor you in the present and create pockets of calm.

Swap resolutions for rituals

Let go of grand declarations and choose small, repeatable acts that nourish you. A simple

ritual holds far more power than a pressured goal. This could be a weekly yoga class, a short stretch at home, or kicking your shoes off and noticing how your feet connect to the ground.

Step outside, even briefly

A short walk or a breath of fresh air can settle the nervous system far more than we realise. There’s a lot of research about how nature has a way of steadying the mind and body. Movement, even if gentle, is proven to reduce stress hormones and promote joy.

“Remember, even little resets throughout the day compound to make a big difference in how you feel.”

www.folcstudio.co.uk

Kevin Karaca and Bronwyn Benstead help people to develop physical, mental and emotional wellbeing. Picture: Helen Rowan Photography

Yoga and stretching can benefit physical and mental health Picture: Lizzie Henshaw

A psychological perspective

Michelle Leeder is a registered psychotherapist, wellbeing practitioner and leadership consultant with over 20 years of experience working with individuals and teams in community, private and charity settings

“JANUARY can feel unexpectedly tough. After the brightness and bustle of the festive season, we’re suddenly met with darker mornings, long evenings and colder days. We may notice that this stark shift can impact our mood and energy levels.

“We know that reduced daylight in winter disrupts our circadian rhythms and can lower serotonin levels, which helps explain the heaviness some people feel. For some, this develops into Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), but many experience a milder, entirely normal seasonal dip.

“Instead of striving for instant motivation or dramatic change, January can be a moment to soften into what the season is quietly asking of us: to restore, simplify and steady ourselves. Aligning with this seasonal pull can be grounding.

“There are some gentle, practical ways to care for yourself in winter while preparing for the gradual emergence of spring:

“In amongst the doom and gloom of this new season, we can often overlook that winter itself offers an invitation to us.”

“In amongst the doom and gloom of this new season, we can often overlook that winter itself offers an invitation to us.

“We are natural beings, influenced by the rhythms of the seasons even when modern life encourages us to push through them. Nature slows down, rests and conserves energy at this time of year – and we don’t need to resist that.

• Seek morning daylight, even for 10–20 minutes, to support mood regulation.

• Create warmth and comfort through cosy layers, nourishing meals and calm evenings.

• Move gently, choosing walks or stretching that energise without overwhelming.

• Rest intentionally, allowing for quieter nights and simpler routines.

• Simplify commitments to conserve emotional energy.

“Winter isn’t stagnation; it’s preparation. Caring for yourself now builds steady, sustainable energy for when the light returns.”

www.michelle-leeder.com

Michelle Leeder suggests gentle, practical ways to care for ourselves during the winter. Picture: Helen Rowan Photography

Morning daylight, gentle walks and getting close to nature can all help to ease your mood in the depths of winter. Picture: Fiona Stubbs

IT’S the artwork that has captivated shoppers and visitors to Chesterfield town centre for weeks.

World-renowned street artist Peachzz has worked throughout stormy weather and cold, frosty days to create the stunning mural on the side of The Pavements Shopping Centre.

As Reflections went to press, Peachzz was putting the finishing touches to the mural which celebrates Chesterfield’s markets and heritage.

She says: “Lots of people have been very interested in watching the process of the mural being painted with many stopping by to watch - even in the winter weather!”

Peachzz, from Sheffield, created the design after a series of consultations during the summer.

She explains: “The various elements in the mural relate to items that can found on Chesterfield’s diverse range of markets including the sunflowers, artisan jam, records and various collectibles.

“Many items have a direct link to the heritage of Chesterfield and the markets, for example, a pomegranate, a horse brass depicting cattle (linking to the cattle market) and the market horse. The hands link to the idea of the trade and exchange happening at the market.

“Consultation has informed the design and development of the mural, including a drop-in event at The Pavements, conversations with market traders and sessions with various school and community groups.”

Heritage meets street art in Chesterfield’s newest landmark

Peachzz discovered spray painting in the forgotten industrial sites of the UK and Europe, channelling her creativity into breathing life into walls.

Her work often explores and celebrates themes of nature, life and community, set against the stark concrete of urban spaces. With each mural she aims to evoke an emotional response and ensure her work feels rooted in its surroundings.

With a storytelling approach, she creates art that resonates with both the local communities and visitors. Her style is expressive, with hints of realism, while experimenting with positive themes and a bold colour palette.

Peachzz has

Far left: Hands represent trade and exchange at the market

Left: The pomegranate is a symbol of Chesterfield

Top left: The mural nears completion

Far left: Peachzz at work at the Pavements

Above: Sunflowers are among the diverse items sold on Chesterfield’s markets

travelled with her work all over Europe and has painted as far away as the USA, Colombia, Mexico and the Middle East. She was commissioned by Chesterfield Borough Council to create the mural as part of the Animate Chesterfield programme, which will create new artworks and activities throughout regeneration projects happening in both Chesterfield and Staveley.

Animate Chesterfield is being delivered by Beam, a leading cultural development organisation in collaboration with Chesterfield Borough Council. Further plans include the creation of a Heritage Arts Trail, a town centre projection mapping project, an outdoor exhibition and a new sculpture for Staveley town centre.

• All pictures by Fiona Stubbs

Adorn jewellers brought a little extra sparkle to Chesterfield’s historic heart with celebrations to mark a milestone anniversary.

Laura Jo Davis and Adam Owen toasted 15 years of glittering success with a party at Ye Royal Oak pub, close to Adorn’s home in the Middle Shambles.

Adorn is an award-winning boutique of unusual jewellery, run by husband and wife team Laura Jo and Adam, with their Cairn Terriers Heathcliff and Moriarty often close by.

It has built a reputation for offering a beautifully eclectic collection of distinctive, original and bohemian jewellery with a warm, friendly and special customer experience.

Yet the business began with a chilly start, in late November 2010. “In the heaviest snowfall for over a decade, we dug ourselves into our new shop and wondered what on earth we’d done,” recalls Laura Jo. “The front of the shop was covered in scaffolding, the lane was dark and Instagram didn’t exist. I wondered if anyone would ever visit. “I stood nervously waiting, shivering in my sparkly top with my fingers crossed and then, magically, a customer arrived!

sparkle and style

on the evening of the party. Picture: Fiona

Left: Laura Jo and Adam with their dogs Heathcliff and Moriarty

“I was so in awe that this dream I’d sketched on a piece of paper was now a reality with an actual customer. My lovely mum quietly encouraged me to speak to the lady. Anyone who knows me will find it hysterical that I was so tongue-tied!”

As word spread and more people arrived, Adam gave up his job in theatre to work alongside Laura Jo.

“Words cannot express how very grateful we are to be able to be in our beautiful little shop with our dogs, surrounded by beautiful jewellery,” says Laura Jo. “We’ve met so many interesting people from all over the world and we’re so lucky to now count many of our customers as friends.

difference to us. Chesterfield truly is a town of exceptionally friendly people.”

She adds: “When thinking about our special birthday party, there was just one place that we wanted to host. The fabulous ‘Ye Royal Oak’ in The Shambles is such a wonderful pub and has the perfect ‘spend time with friends’ cosy vibe.”

“Words cannot express how very grateful we are to be able to be in our beautiful little shop with our dogs, surrounded by beautiful jewellery,”

“Everyone who chooses their jewellery from us, comments on our social media posts, tells a friend about us or sends good wishes, makes the world of

Reflections was happy to share in the celebrations with Adorn, which features on our back cover each month.

Laura Jo says: “Reflections has been a big part of the Adorn story as they were the very first people we advertised with.

“We took our first eighth of a page and I’ll always remember a customer walking through the door with our advert that she’d cheekily torn from a copy of Reflections in her dentist’s waiting room!

“I would look at the glossy back cover and think ‘wouldn’t it be wonderful to have our business featured there?!’ And now we are! The Reflections team is so accommodating and I’m so happy to feature on their back cover each month.”

Above: Laura Jo and Adam raise a toast outside Adorn

Stubbs

Left: Laura Jo and Adam behind the bar of Ye Royal Oak with owners Patrick Hopkins and Meg Hartman. Picture: Fiona Stubbs

Bringing sparkle to The Shambles … Laura Jo

pictured by Helen Rowan Photography

River restoration plan to revive water vole population

ATRANSFORMATIVE programme of habitat restoration across the River Dove catchment is helping to bring back one of the UK’s most threatened mammals, thanks to £40,000 in support from the Water Environment Improvement Fund (WEIF).

The fund is administered on behalf of Defra by the Environment Agency, to improve the water environment.

It will support Derbyshire Wildlife Trust’s Water Vole Recovery Project to deliver targeted improvements across more than 500km of the Dove catchment, restoring natural river processes, enhancing vital wetland habitats and improving water quality.

Water voles are now the fastest declining mammal in the UK, having disappeared from 96% of their area of cover in England. The combined

impact of habitat loss and predation by the non-native American mink has devastated populations across the country, including Derbyshire where they have been identified as a priority species in the Local Nature Recovery Strategy.

The Trust’s recent feasibility report highlighted the widespread lack of suitable habitat for water voles across the Dove catchment, while also identifying key issues, such as cattle access to watercourses, which can damage banks and reduce water quality.

Through this project to help restore 2,000 metres of riverbank habitat, starting on the Bradbourne Brook, work is underway to reduce pollution from livestock, restore natural riverbanks, improve bankside vegetation and create the sunny, shallow margins that water voles rely on to thrive. Fencing river boundaries will reduce trampling and overgrazing by livestock, significantly improving conditions for water voles and other wetland wildlife.

Dave Savage, Landscape Recovery Manager at Derbyshire Wildlife Trust, said: “Water voles do so much

to benefit other wildlife on the riverbank. When water voles dig burrows they move nutrients around, helping plants to grow; by grazing on plants, they help encourage greater diversity in the riverbank vegetation and these actions create benefits for insects like butterflies and bees, birds and other small mammals.

“We’re thrilled to see this catchment-wide programme moving forward with support from the Water Environment Improvement Fund. It represents a vital step in restoring one of our most important river systems, not just for water voles, but for the health of the whole ecosystem. By working with natural processes and local landowners, we can create a landscape where wildlife thrives and rivers are fit for the future.”

Tim Pickering, Environment Agency River Dove Catchment Coordinator, added: “This is an excellent piece of work and the Environment Agency is happy to support the Wildlife Trust in its delivery. Not only are water voles one of our priority species but the measures to protect them also deliver wider environmental benefit through water quality improvements. A win-win situation.”

Left: Dave Savage, Landscape Recovery Manager at Derbyshire Wildlife Trust

Water vole.

Picture: Terry Whittaker

THE YEAR OF WRIGHT

Author Steve Farnsworth looks at the life of acclaimed

Derbyshire artist Joseph Wright

Isuppose that you either ‘get’ Joseph Wright, or he’s an artist that you file away in the ‘too confusing’ compartment.

Luckily, there’s an opportunity to decide throughout 2026. The National Gallery is running a six-month show - Wright of Derby: From the Shadowswhich runs until 10th May. In late May, it arrives in Derby for a further six months.

The prevailing view of our most significant Derbyshire artist has been that he was some sort of seer or prophet of the scientific and industrial revolutions and depicted, metaphorically, the

decline of religion and the rise of rational thought and enquiry.

The usual evidence cited is The Orrery and The Airpump pictures, both of which portray science lectures of the sort that went on in well-to-do salons of the mid-18th century. They are stupendous pieces of work: the first really large pictures Wright produced in the upstairs rooms of his brother’s house on Iron Gate in Derby.

Wright was in his midthirties when he did them both in a great blaze of creativity between 1766 and 1768, with The Orrery coming first.

He had customers lined up for both. Earl Ferrers wanted a painting for his new pavilion at Staunton Harold which reflected his scientific achievements. The search was on for a truly accurate value for the distance between the Earth and the Sun. An orrery was the perfect subject.

The Airpump story is less clear-cut. The painting is a meditation on respiration and its role in supporting life. But there is clearly more going on in it. Some claim that is a picture about a resurrection and some

will say that it is about man’s relentless, and possibly overreaching, quest for a god-like knowledge of scientific truth.

Certainly, I find the central figure of the shaman-like philosopher, with his fingers oh-so-lightly on the air valve, is one of the most compelling in all art. He looks out of the picture directly at us with eyes that do not connect with ours. He looks through and beyond us.

Wright’s father, John ‘Equity’ Wright, was dying during the completion of the first painting and as The Airpump was being created. He lived over the road in the long-standing Wright household and would have visited often: he had had to retire as Derby’s Town Clerk as his health declined. Wright’s father was a very significant figure to Joseph. How much of all this domestic anxiety worked its way into the art?

Initially, Wright didn’t do very well, monetarily at least, with these two big pictures. He benefitted in later years by allowing both paintings to be engraved for the production of mezzotints by the leading engravers of the day. At 15/- a time he did very well out of them.

The paintings created his reputation too: Wright was an early member of the Society of Artists in London and exhibiting these two paintings in the late 1760’s established him as a major force.

The paintings will be back together in Derby for the first time in over 80 years. Both have been superbly conserved.

There is a lot to unpack in Wright’s complex life,

nearly all of it spent in Derby. My biographical novel

Painting Faces deploys all the known facts and scholarship about Wright, but uses them to re-create his life and his world.

He was a complicated man, kindly, yet arrogant and stubborn at times, generous to friends and family, but much averse to any public display of sociability, especially as he grew older. He suffered from asthma and debilitating bouts of depression and low spirits, yet worked at a phenomenal rate when he was well. Then there is the mystery of his late marriage to a much younger woman of a far lower social class and their hasty elopement to Italy.

Painting Faces by Steve Farnsworth is available from Bannister Publications https:// www.bannisterpublications. com/bookstore or Amazon. For more information about Joseph and his world, visit Derby Museums at https:// derbymuseums.org/collection/ joseph-wright-of-derby/ or www.thederwenttrilogy.co.uk

A Philosopher Giving That Lecture on the Orrery in Which a Lamp Is Put in Place of the Sun ~ 1766. Derby Museums.

A Philosopher Shewing an Experiment on the Air Pump ~ Engraved by Valentine Green 1769. Art Institute Chicago; The Amanda S. Johnson and Marion J. Livingston Fund.

Stylish new look for Matlock charity shop

THE British Red Cross shop on Bank Road, Matlock has re-opened after an extensive refurbishment.

It offers a contemporary, boutiquestyle shopping experience, with curated displays and an expanded range of highquality items - including clothing and accessories supplied by major brands.

Coun Ashley Orwin, deputy mayor of Matlock and co-owner of neighbouring business, Aspire Creative, officially reopened the store by cutting a ribbon alongside manager, Carol Baynes.

“We are so proud to re-open our doors and welcome everyone back into a space that truly reflects the quality, generosity and spirit of Matlock,” said Carol. “This refurbishment isn’t just about a new look - it’s about offering our customers the very best, while helping us continue to fund the life-changing work of the British Red Cross.”

The charity helps people in crisis in the UK and internationally, providing support during emergencies, including disasters and conflicts. It provides aid such as food, shelter, first aid and medical care.

Derbyshire businesswomen bring first life-coaching pilgrimages to the Peak District this New Year

MODERN day pilgrims can start the New Year with positivity, hope and focus with a new Peak District event.

Derbyshire pilgrim guide Faye Smith and Cromford’s Sarah Jane Cooper introduce the first life coaching pilgrimages from Tideswell’s Cathedral of the Peak on Saturday 3rd January (10am to 3pm).

January is named after Janus, the Roman god of beginnings and endings, journeys, transitions, time, doorways, conflict and peace. He is usually depicted as having two faces, as he looks back to the old year and forward to the new.

Tideswell’s minister, Revd Fiona Koble will launch the Janus pilgrimage and professional accredited life coach Sarah Jane will lead a 30-minute taster group coaching session. “We will consider an aspect of our lives we would like to work on in

2026,” says Sarah Jane. “Our Janus Pilgrims will gain clarity on what that looks like, create a picture of what their goal is and the steps they intend to take to reach it as we set out on our journey together.”

While Sarah Jane offers confidential individual coaching to each pilgrim during the six-mile journey, pilgrim guide and bereavement specialist Faye Smith will share the hidden history of the area.

Faye says: “On this pilgrimage, we are walking around three of Tideswell’s ‘Daughter’ churches to re-discover their forgotten stories, from the buried head of Glossop’s almost-saint to Litton Mill’s cruelly treated orphan boy who inspired Charles Dickens’ character Oliver Twist.”  Learn more at https://hopewalking. co.uk/janus-pilgrimage-with-lifecoaching and facebook Hope Walking SJCLifeCoaching.com

Buxton Opera House announces Taylor Emmet Solicitors as new annual partner

BUXTON Opera House and Taylor Emmet Solicitors are joining forces in a new venture which sees the local solicitors become a lead partner of the iconic Theatre in The Hills in 2026.

Coinciding with the opening of the new Taylor Emmet Peak District office in Bakewell, the leading law firm is sponsoring the Opera House throughout 2026 across all the theatre’s home-grown ‘Created in Buxton’ productions, BOH Creates community engagement work and more.

Buxton Opera House CEO, Paul Kerryson, said: “This fantastic new venture directly supports our own ‘Created in Buxton’ productions and community engagement programme, helping to fuel a spectacular year of local theatre.”

Above: Matlock’s deputy mayor, Coun Ashley Orwin re-opens the British Red Cross shop on Bank Road with store manager Carol Baynes.

Above: Faye Smith and Sarah Jane Cooper.

Reflections Rewind

Brrrr!

This was the snowy scene – with families enjoying some scenic sledging - which greeted Reflections readers in January 1994.

In this edition, Peter White looked at the dissemination of information and uncovered the many and varied questions posed to staff in Chesterfield Library’s Local Studies section. It would become a pivotal year in the technological revolution which ultimately brought the internet into mainstream use - drastically changing how information was accessed, communicated and shared. But, as 1994 dawned, we learned how reference books and microfilm informed the research of people, both locally and from around the world.

Then, as now, Reflections celebrated the wildlife and nature of Derbyshire and readers learned how, due to its landscape, the county was home to many unusual bird species.

And, if you were looking to start the New Year with a new car, Reflections advertised some of the latest luxury models, with a new BMW costing just £15,995!

New Year. New Look. New Flooring. HOLYWELL CARPETS

Step into 2026 with Style, Quality, and Confidence

AS we welcome the arrival of 2026, many of us feel inspired to make positive changes - to refresh our homes, elevate our surroundings, and start the year with a renewed sense of energy. One of the most effective ways to transform a space is to update its flooring. A new carpet or vinyl doesn’t just change how a room looks; it reshapes how it feels, adding comfort, warmth, and character.

Flooring sits at the heart of every room, influencing the mood, the flow, and the overall sense of harmony. A fresh floor can instantly sharpen a space, modernise it, or make it feel more inviting. Whether you want to brighten up a tired living room, inject personality into a hallway, or give

your home a unified, stylish look, the right flooring can deliver a transformation that is both striking and long-lasting.

A refreshed floor breathes new life into even the most familiar spaces, setting the tone for the year ahead. Whether you’re modernising a single room or rethinking your entire home, Holywell Carpets offers the expertise, quality, and service to help you make that transformation with confidence and ease.

Integrity: The Key to Lasting Success

For decades, Chesterfield-based Holywell Carpets has earned its reputation through honesty, trust, and a steadfast commitment to exceeding customer expectations.

As is so often the case with longestablished family businesses, Holywell Carpets has stood the test of time by delivering unparalleled customer service, uncompromising integrity, and unswerving reliability.

Long-standing and loyal employee Martin Howroyd now leads the business, having worked there for 39 years. A trained fitter with 25 years “on the tools”, he knows the flooring trade inside out - experience that brings real assurance to customers. Martin receives front-of-house assistance from his wife, Marie, whose in-depth knowledge of the carpet business is invaluable.

Traditional Values That Matter

Martin takes pride in the values that underpin Holywell Carpets’ continued success. “If I wouldn’t have a particular carpet in my home, I won’t put it in yours,” he says. “Our business is based

on a high moral code, and honesty is at the very core of what we do.”

Better Prices Through ACG Membership

Holywell Carpets is part of the Associated Carpet Group (ACG) - a national buying group of over 320 independent retailers. This collective strength enables Holywell Carpets to secure the best trading terms with leading suppliers, meaning customers benefit from excellent value and highly competitive pricing.

Derbyshire

Trusted Trader

As a Derbyshire Trusted Trader, Holywell Carpets adheres to rigorous standards of fairness, reliability, and quality. Customers can feel confident that they are dealing with a vetted, reputable, and trustworthy business.

What Customers Say

Derbyshire Trusted Trader Review

“Very efficient from purchase to fitting. Very courteous and they did everything they

said they would. I highly recommend them and will not look anywhere else when I replace the next carpet. Excellent carpets.”

Selected Customer Reviews

Claudia Paige

“Amazing - from when we first went in the shop to finishing our stairs. Great customer service, great communication, and the best variety of carpets I’ve seen in a carpet shop. If you’re looking for something unique, this is the place. We looked for months and this was the only shop with exactly what we wanted. Highly recommend.”

Tracey Morris

“Fantastic customer service, great choice of carpet and perfect fitting. I’d never go anywhere else!”

Jason Thomas

“First-class service. Very polite and helpful staff. My bedroom carpet looks amazing. Will recommend - 10/10.”

A Company Defined by Honesty, Reliability, and Care

If you’re seeking an honest, courteous, and dependable service - delivered by people who take real pride in their work - look no further than Holywell Carpets.

Holywell Carpets, 40 St Mary’s Gate, Chesterfield, S41 7TH T: 01246 272 835  M: 07733 889430 E: enquiry@holywellcarpets.co.uk www.holywellcarpets.co.uk

More than a walking group

Born from a shared passion for nature - and a need for a women’s-only space – Chesterfield-based Gurls that Walk is helping women to find confidence, connection and a reason to get outside. Faye Bramley joined them for a hike.

DO you love being outdoors and in nature? Are you keen to meet like-minded people? Do you want to get active in a safe and supportive environment? These are the questions that jump out to me from the Gurls that Walk leaflet. And these are certainly aspects of the close-knit community organisers Chloe and Shea have built since starting the women’s-only walking group.

Chloe Hollingworth, 28, and Shea McArdle, 32, started the group in June 2024, shortly after reconnecting as long-lost cousins and realising their shared love of walking and nature.

“We really didn’t expect it to grow the way it has. It’s been unbelievable,” Shea admits.

Left: Rachael Spink and her and her dog Bonnie have been attending walks since the beginning of Gurls that Walk

Right: The group at Chatsworth.

Picture: Shea McArdle

The group has gone from an idea over coffee to a fully-fledged community with over 1,300 followers on Instagram in just over a year. Chloe and Shea host two walks a month, with varied difficulty levels, usually ending with a voluntary social event at a nearby café.

“We want to help keep people motivated and connected,” they explain. This is evident in the positive and welcoming environment the pair have created.

When I joined Gurls that Walk on a route around Chatsworth from Beeley, this atmosphere was crystal clear. Despite being on my own, I was greeted with friendly faces and a genuine warmth from the women in attendance.

This sentiment was echoed by the women I spoke to about their experiences with the group. Rachael Spink has been attending

Chloe and Shea

the walks with her black Labrador, Bonnie, since the very beginning. “I haven’t got a big group of friends, so it gives me a chance to get out and socialise with people who are like-minded and like the outdoors,” she says. “Chloe and Shea are great girls, they’ve always been so welcoming and they always make the effort to speak to me. I think anyone who’s been to any of the walks would agree.”

Support for the group is strong, with members showing up for walks come rain or shine. Chloe and Shea recall feeling touched when they hosted a walk in the pouring rain and still had a substantial turnout, which they didn’t expect.

The sense of community support within the group extends both ways, benefiting Chloe and Shea too. “I didn’t create the group to make friends, that wasn’t even something I considered, but I have made friends from it,” Shea acknowledges.

She recalls arriving at the starting point for their first walk - she was slightly late, so as she drove past the meeting point to park her car, she saw everyone who had shown up to support this new venture.

She describes this as a turning point that encouraged her to close a negative chapter in her life. The fact people wanted to show support and to get involved in something she and Chloe had created gave her a much-needed change of perspective.

Chloe had previously hosted a mixedgender walking group in Bolsover, after getting into walking to improve her own mental wellbeing. “I remember thinking that everybody should get to experience this,” she recalls. However, after an uncomfortable encounter with a man in the group, she made the difficult decision to close it down. She and Shea considered starting a women’s-only walking group instead and Gurls that Walk was born - aiming to provide “a safe space for women to experience the benefits of walking in nature.”

woman surrounded by other women feels safe and nurturing,” explains Delanye Neilson who describes a sense of mutual support among the women who attend, and how this creates an encouraging atmosphere for young women who, like her, have just started their careers.

“We want to help keep people motivated and connected,”

Long-standing member Emma Coleman says: “It feels so comfortable. We talk about all the sorts of things that we girls chat about when we’re together with friends. It’s like a friendship group that you didn’t know you needed.”

Many members I spoke to cited the group being a women’s-only space as a key reason for their continued involvement. “Being a

Emma works as a Physical Activity Advisor for Live Life Better Derbyshire, so she is no stranger to the barriers preventing people from accessing the mental and physical benefits of walking outdoors. She applauds the judgement-free environment that Chloe and Shea have created: “You don’t have to go and talk to people if you don’t want to; you could kind of just be there and be around people. Chloe and Shea check on everyone, and those at the front wait for those at the back. This makes people feel like they belong and makes them want to go again because they feel comfortable.”

It’s clear Gurls that Walk means a lot to its members. “I think when you’re on your own and you’re feeling down, it’s really hard to give yourself the motivation to actually get outside. But if you’ve got a place and a time and other people are

going to be there, then it’s great motivation to get out and do something for yourself,” adds another member, Charlie Smith.

Reflecting on their journey so far, Chloe says: “We are both normal women with normal jobs, so we are proof that if you put your mind to something, you can do it.”

With Gurls that Walk, the sense of connection, the encouragement to get active and the opportunity to appreciate the natural beauty on our doorstep all combine to create something much more than a walking group: a community.

Chloe and Shea post the dates, times, and meeting points for their walks on Facebook and Instagram (@gurlsthatwalk). They can also be contacted by email at gurlsthatwalk@outlook.com. In addition to walks, they are planning fundraising events for Ashgate Hospice, such as a lino printing workshop and walking challenge.

Chloe and Shea admire the view from the Hunting Tower at Chatsworth.

Above: Walking boots. Picture: Shea McArdle

WRITING BOX ATTIC

FIND MAKES £1,300

By Vivienne Milburn FRICS Independent Antiques Auctioneer & Valuer

DISCOVERED in an attic in the Hope Valley, Derbyshire, this brass-bound ship’s captain’s campaign writing box made an impressive £1,300 in a recent specialist auction – 10 times the average price for a writing box.

There is a good demand for premium quality items in specialist auctions, I just never know where they are going to turn up.

Long distance communication at sea was shaped by the vastness of the oceans. Among the essential possessions of a ship’s captain was the campaign writing slope, a portable, hinged wooden desk that folded neatly into a compact box.

This example is made from mahogany and fitted with brass corners to withstand rough conditions at sea.

Writing slopes served as miniature offices and they typically contained glass inkwells, compartments for quills and sealing wax and a slanted writing surface.

For captains in the 1840s, the writing slope was more than a convenience. Months could pass before a ship saw land and written correspondence was the only means of conveying news.

Every letter was composed by hand, sealed with wax and entrusted to the next port of call. Delivery times were unpredictable and messages from

the Pacific or Atlantic whaling grounds could take a year or more to reach their destination.

The physicality of writing in the 1840s shaped the tone of communication. Letters tended to be lengthy, carefully phrased and deliberate. The writing slope itself contributed to this meticulous atmosphere; its structured compartments and refined materials encouraged a sense of ceremony and purpose.

In contrast, communication today is instantaneous and often fleeting; modern mariners now maintain constant contact with shore. Today, messages are shorter, more frequent and far less formal.

The modern correspondent seldom pauses to reflect before sending a message - and the idea of waiting months for a reply is unimaginable.

There is an enduring charm in the writing slope and a reminder of a period when correspondence was an art.

If you require a valuation on your antiques and collectables, it is worth getting the advice of an Independent Antiques Valuer to assess your works of art. For information, please contact Vivienne Milburn on 07870 238788 or 01629 640210. Email vivienne@ viviennemilburn.co.uk or go to www.viviennemilburn.co.uk

Left & above: This 19th century brass-bound ship’s captain’s campaign writing box dates back to around 1840. An unusual feature of the box is the locking mechanism operated by the large key, allowing it to be attached to a tabletop and not move about in rough seas.

1ST CLASS KITCHENS

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Dave personally project-manages each installation from start to finish, ensuring continuity, precision, and seamless efficiency. This handson approach has allowed 1st Class Kitchens to maintain an impeccable track record, underpinned by integrity, attention to detail, and the kind of care that only a family-run business can provide.

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While known for outstanding kitchens, 1st Class Kitchens has evolved to offer a comprehensive range of interior solutions. Their bespoke media walls are a standout example - stunning centrepieces that combine storage, lighting, and contemporary design to elevate any living room. These installations often feature ambient lighting, integrated fireplaces, custom cabinetry, and beautifully balanced proportions that transform empty walls into captivating focal points.

Boot rooms, utility rooms, and walk-in pantries have become some of the most soughtafter additions to modern homes. 1st Class Kitchens excels in designing these hardworking spaces to be practical, aesthetically pleasing, and thoughtfully laid out. Boot rooms include custom storage for coats, shoes, sports gear, and everyday essentials. Pantries and utilities are crafted to maximise organisation, integrating shelving, appliance housing, laundry zones, or additional food storage in a way that makes day-to-day living smoother and more enjoyable.

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1st Class Kitchens proudly partners with Burbidge and Marpatt, two leading British manufacturers renowned for their craftsmanship, design innovation, and exceptional quality. Their products allow 1st

Class Kitchens to offer an inspiring palette of door styles, textures, and finishes – from classic Shaker to cutting-edge contemporary.

1st Class Kitchens is also recognised as both a Bosch Expert Studio and a Siemens Studio Line showroom, demonstrating highlevel product knowledge and access to elite appliance ranges with advanced features and stunning design aesthetics. These partnerships ensure customers receive not only stunning kitchen furniture but worldclass technology from brands they trust.

FURNITURE MADE TO MEASURE - DESIGNED FOR REAL HOMES

Every project undertaken by 1st Class Kitchens is individually crafted, ensuring that awkward corners, unusual layouts, personal tastes, and unique household needs are accommodated with precision. Bespoke furniture - whether for kitchens, bedrooms, offices, or media units - reflects 1st Class Kitchens’ commitment to practicality fused with elegant design. Their installations are renowned for longevity, meticulous craftsmanship, and an aesthetic that feels tailored, timeless, and effortlessly stylish.

VISIT 1ST CLASS KITCHENS

With a spacious, modern showroom at 49-53 Chatsworth Road, Chesterfield, S40 2AL, complete with adjacent parking and a wide range of fully dressed displays, customers can explore endless options for transforming their homes.

49-53 Chatsworth Road, Chesterfield, S40 2AL 01246 271727

info@1stclasskitchens.co.uk

www.1stclasskitchens.co.uk

Opening Times

Monday 9am - 5pm

Tuesday 9am - 5pm

Wednesday - by appointment only Thursday 9am - 5pm

Friday 9am - 4pm

Saturday 10am - 4pm

TakeGuard – when it comes to choosing windows!

Locally based, highly reputable, and long-established windows and conservatory company, HeatGuard, continues to tick all the boxes when it comes to providing the ultimate in value, quality, and personal service.

UNCOMPROMISING integrity, unrivalled service, and a relentless pursuit of the finest products have been the hallmarks of the continued success of this innovative and dynamic company.

To complement their core ranges of windows and conservatories covered by HeatGuard, SecurityGuard, and SoundGuard, a brand-new selection of windows is now available at even more competitive prices under the umbrella tradename of ValueGuard.

ValueGuard

The ValueGuard choice of windows and conservatories comprises all the foremost features of the rest, whilst shaving off significantly on the costs. So, with ValueGuard, you really can have your cake and eat it!

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The ValueGuard range has been introduced in response to the imposing demands on people’s budgets at this time with soaring energy bills and the like. Offering specs and styles to meet the

most exacting of budgets, ValueGuard gives the ultimate in value for money.

HeatGuard

HeatGuard, with an impeccable thermal spec, provides an extensive collection of energy efficient uPVC Double and Triple glazed windows, tailor made to suit every individual property’s style and appearance. Whether its contemporary, country, or urban developments, HeatGuard Windows have the perfect window to complement any home.

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With noise reducing attributes, SoundGuard windows, with a definitive acoustic spec, can help make any home a quieter, stress-free place. The windows are specifically assessed for sound absorption and given an STC, Sound Transmission Class, which measures how well a material reduces outdoor to indoor noise. Double-glazed and triple-glazed windows offer a significantly higher STC.

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“We’re redefining customer satisfaction, one happy customer at a time.”

1 “But I’m zany!” he blurted out in old Istanbul (9)

1 Was part of ‘Bold’ gene that’s modified (8)

7 Spider woman to reach an agreement (7)

4 Begin to unravel karate mats (4,1,5)

13 Dead set against being calmed down (7)

5 Cough up, but not expectorantly! (3,4,3)

18 Kit that can quieten a member, properly applied (9)

5 The grumpiest people are a bit tart (3)

6 Ignited something of the abolitionist within me (3)

10 Have something of a nervous breakdown (3)

11 Scoring, while lessening the slope (7) 12 Watch it end up as wallop! (3)

16 Snake in and out of the raspberries (3) 17 Answer’s not in here! (Stumped?) (3)

9 Climax of lofty location? (4,4)

2 At last! (Greek to Catherine J though) (4)

3 Powder used in antenatal clinics (4)

8 Dirge composed for one of high pressure (5)

14 Against policy, ain’t it? (4)

15 Mead brewed just for a lady (4)

The solutions for the Decembers 2025 Pitcherwits are shown left. The answers to January 2026 Pitcherwits will be published in the Feb 2026 issue.

ACROSS

1 Time to pass when asleep maybe? (6)

4 Act out strange concordat near Ripley (6)

9 Even so, one is abominable (4)

10 Dig out the hairdye near Wirksworth (10)

11 Old local prop, say, of the spinning industry? (6)

13 This river flows out of Burton, OK? (8)

16 Tax on pubs unfairly set in Watertown (6,3)

18 Possible to finish in this village S of Winster (4)

19 Abbey, a memorable part of this village (4)

20 Constant novice who’s not deciduous? (9)

24 Sell rubbish to crew at a place with Crags (8)

26 Not put back South of Chesterfield? (6)

29 Italian stuff, not a patch on Hartington’s 3 down? (10)

31 A lot has changed for this singer (4)

32 Managers of our wall tops? (6)

33 Totals of a hasty pudding ruined without its thingy (4,2)

Prize Crossword

1 Make an effort with tree by shaping (5)

2 Farewell to aide as a bad turn (5)

3 Lions in a race to make Hartington’s blue one (7)

5 It may be a peculiarity, but do tidy the mess! (6)

6 Engineered part of a maiden name (3)

7 Hungry animal bit the rug (3)

8 It just shows you what was mine in Matlock Bath! (5,8)

12 Roman king who was a bit anorexic? (3)

14 Arbiter, not at pains to deliver Smedley’s folly (5)

15 Auctioneer is somewhat individual (3)

17 They’re smart up in Crich! (5)

19 Learning to hold the listener (3)

21 Free nut with application of lard, in place of manners (7)

22 Take in off the beaten track (3)

23 A heron in flight, north west of Ilkeston (6)

25 Mistake, sounding hesitant? (3)

27 Supertankers, with no returns to our hilltops (5)

28 Draughty conditions for ale? (2,3)

30 Breach begins to get around protocol (3)

Name: Address:

We will give a prize of £25 to a randomly-drawn correctly completed crossword. Cut out the completed puzzle and send by January 19th, 2026, to: Bannister Publications Limited, Office 2A Market Hall, Market Hall, Chesterfield, Derbyshire, S40 1AR. The solutions for the January 2026 crossword can be found on page 82 of this issue.

Wildlife in Winter Derbyshire

For writer and photographer Peter Wigglesworth, winter offers the perfect opportunity to experience wildlife on the Peak District moors - and closer to home. A volunteer on the Eastern Moors, he shares his insights and a few words of advice on how we can all support nature during the winter months

SOME people do not like winter, with the dark nights and poor weather. For me though, it is an exciting time of year which provides special opportunities to engage with wildlife.

In Derbyshire, from October to November, flocks of migrating birds arrive from Scandinavia and Iceland. They are attracted to our warmer climate and profusion of berry bearing trees and bushes as well as fields offering a range of worms and insects.

Common winter visitors include Fieldfare, Redwing and Starling and occasionally we are blessed with a flock of Waxwings, eager to feed on rowan and hawthorn berries. Hassop Station is a popular spot for Waxwings but, like all things to do with nature, their presence cannot be guaranteed.

The reptiles and amphibians of Derbyshire, including frogs, toads, newts, lizards, slow worms and snakes all hibernate for winter and emerge from their deep sleep when the first warm rays of sun arrive in February, or later in some cases. It is therefore important not to disturb any hibernating animals. Ponds should not be cleaned out during winter as this may harm hibernating amphibians, sleeping deep in the pond mud, in a comatose state.

Similarly, piles of logs, rotting wood or rubbish heaps should be left alone in winter in case they contain hibernating hedgehogs, slow worms or grass snakes.

Adders hibernate underground,

Mountain hare in the Dark Peak

Above: Foxes look for a breeding partner in December and January

Above: Adders hibernate until March

Above: Mountain hare hiding in Dark Peak moorland

taking advantage of holes in the ground or voids beneath walls and stones, where the water table will not reach them. They are, however, still vulnerable to any environmental change to their place of hibernation, such as drainage or earthworks.

Foxes mate in December to January and can be heard calling at night at this time of year, as they seek a breeding partner. It is an evocative call much heard on television programmes, where the director is trying to add a sense of eeriness to a scene.

Fox cubs are born in March and generally emerge from their dens around April or May.

Derbyshire’s mountain hares, found on the wildest moors, turn white for winter, hoping to blend in with a snowy landscape. Unfortunately, due to global warming, there are not many snowy days in our winters and the mountain hares are therefore vulnerable in their white coats on a background of a dark brown moor.

Ravens take advantage of winter weather causing more carrion [decaying carcasses of animals] to be available. They are some of the earliest breeding birds, making their nests in February, even when it is snowing.

“Winter is a wonderful time to try your tracking skills after fresh snow.”

This leads to increased predation or vulnerability from shooting and recently the mountain hare numbers in Derbyshire have been in decline. They are the only population of mountain hares in England, which makes them very special.

Badgers were thought to largely hibernate during winter but, as the seasons warm, their behaviour has changed and they can now be seen all year round. They are good animals to track in fresh snow as they have a distinctive footprint with five toes and large claws.

Winter is a wonderful time to try your tracking skills after fresh snow. It is amazing to see where animals have passed in the night and the variety of animals that can be identified, such as rabbit, hare, fox, badger and deer.

Food is obviously very important in

winter, so please feed your local birds and give a thought to badgers and foxes who may appreciate the odd bit of pork crackling or chicken skin.

• All pictures by Peter Wigglesworth

Above: Frogs spend the winter deep in the mud of ponds

Below: Toads will emerge from hibernation in February or later

Above: Fieldfare

Blooming lovely – would you like to join this allotment community in 2026?

Growers from West Ward Leisure Gardens are looking to welcome new members into their community – and shared this message with Reflections.

We are a small family friendly allotment site in the heart of the community of Brampton, Chesterfield.

Within these times of escalating food costs, it can make it more difficult to access good quality fruit and vegetables to keep our families fit and healthy.

What could be better then, than growing your own and having the satisfaction of a home-grown meal on your plate?

We have families with children who come onto site and learn where and how their food grows. They get involved with friendly little competitions to grow the biggest, longest or knobbliest vegetable, creating an inclusive atmosphere.

During the better weather, one of our members holds a free monthly coffee and cake afternoon on site for all members to meet up for a friendly and informal ‘social’.

We also have a WhatsApp group to keep members up to date with site information, and where growing tips and recipes can be shared.

If you are new to gardening - no need to worry. We have smaller plots, ready to garden, and there are always members around who are more than happy to help with advice.

Our rents are super competitive, just one small annual payment required with a refundable bond on leaving the plot in good condition.

In 2025 our association provided

158Kg/394lb of fresh produce to Chesterfield Food Bank which all our members helped to manage on what was a spare half plot. We also had donations from members who had excess produce.

The Food Bank was so grateful and has asked us to grow for them again this year. This was a really rewarding project for our members who were made to feel really appreciated by the Food Bank customers and management.

So, if you’re interested in a new hobby whilst keeping fit and healthy please contact our secretary on 01246 559321.

Hospitality entrepreneur acquires leading Ashbourne bar and restaurant

Hospitality entrepreneur Howard Thacker has acquired The Machine Inn, Ashbourne’s leading bar and restaurant.

The venue, in the town’s former NatWest

bank on St John’s Street, has been run by Chris and Andi Harvey, following their transformation of the building.

The Machine Inn – which was recently awarded two AA rosettes - will continue to trade as usual, with a few minor updates to the drinks list and menus. The existing team will remain in place, ensuring continuity for both staff and customers.

Howard will oversee operations at The Machine Inn while remaining CEO of Berkeley Inns’ local awardwinning venues, The Horseshoes, Long Lane, The Cow at Dalbury Lees and The Bluebell at Kirk Langley.

Chris and Andi Harvey are the owners of the Hopton Hall Estate, which owns several properties in the area, including The Machine Inn building.

Make-A-Wish UK gives the gift of magic to a brave Derbyshire boy

Make-A-Wish UK made a brave six-yearold’s dream come true when he realised his ambition to become a magician for a day.

Charlie, from Derbyshire, loves magic and gets excited about having a secret skill he can show to others. So, when he learned he could have a wish, Charlie wished ‘to be a magician’.

The wish granting charity arranged for Charlie, who has cancer, to perform alongside a local magician, dazzling his audience in a magic show filled with amazement. His face lit up with joy as he performed close-up magic for friends and family, creating memories that will last forever.

The charity has launched a Christmas appeal to more grant more life-changing wishes to critically ill children, sooner. Learn more at: www. makeawish.org.uk/christmasmagic

Above: Charlie becomes a magician for the day thanks to Make-A-Wish UK

West Ward Leisure Gardens

Seasonal simplicity … a lighter start to the New Year with Sara Price of the Village Green Café, Eyam

AFTER the rich foods of the festive season, we’re ready for something a little lighter in January.

This easy and gluten free frittata is perfect for lunch or a casual supper with friends. It makes the most of the humble leek, which is at its best this month.

All that is needed as an accompaniment is a little green salad with a light cider vinegar dressing and some good sourdough.

Sara has run her Eyam café – which has won three Great Taste Awards - since 2012 and has been a Peak District Environmental Quality Mark holder for more than a decade.

She says: “I am incredibly grateful for the community I’ve found living and working in the Peak District. My commitment to putting people and planet first, whilst delivering the best cafe experience in terms of quality and service, is what I live by.”

Sara lives in the Peak District with her husband Richard, a pair of ‘bonkers dogs’ and her sons who also work at the café.

Leek, thyme and cheddar frittata (gluten free)

This is a vegetarian option but it also works brilliantly with a couple of rashers of good smoked bacon, diced and fried until almost crispy. Keeps for up to three days in the fridge.

Ingredients

9 free range eggs

2 tbsp natural yoghurt or creme fraiche

Sea salt & freshly ground black pepper

1 heaped teaspoon Dijon mustard

1 to 2 leeks, washed and diced quite finely (250g approx)

Fresh or dried thyme to taste, leaves

picked and chopped finely

125g mature Cheddar, grated

1 1/2 tsp gluten free baking powder

A knob of butter or glug of olive oil

Method

Line a 9 inch square brownie tin with a single piece of baking parchment (scrunch this up - do not cut to fit as the mixture is very wet and it will leak.)

Preheat oven to 170C (fan).

1 Heat the butter or oil in a frying pan. Once hot, add the diced leeks and cook over a low heat for at least 10 minutes until the leeks are soft but without extra colour. Then, add the salt, pepper and chopped thyme. Put this mixture into the lined tin.

2 Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk

thoroughly. Add the yoghurt or creme fraiche, baking powder, mustard and more seasoning. Whisk again and pour this mixture over the leeks. Finally scatter with the grated cheddar.

3 Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 mins until the frittata is golden, puffed up and just set.

4 Serve straight from the oven or allow to cool and eat cold.

Cider vinegar dressing

Keeps for seven days in the fridge.

2 tbsp raw cider vinegar

6 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

1 tsp Dijon mustard

2 tsp maple syrup or light brown sugar

Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper

Place all ingredients in a jam jar and shake vigorously

Sara Price

Derbyshire’s independent cinemas have weathered war, television, and the rise of the multiplex. From Belper’s historic Ritz to Wirksworth’s boutique Northern Light Cinema, Charlotte Tait learns how these venues are thriving again—serving not just films, but a sense of home

FOR over a century, we have been telling stories through a screen.

Originally a product of 19thcentury scientific venture, cinema became a medium of mass entertainment and communication, and today it is a multi-billion pound industry.

‘Going to the pictures’ was one of the most popular commercial leisure activities in the first half of the 20th century, with UK cinema attendance growing significantly, peaking in 1946 with 1.6 billion recorded admissions, as quoted by historian, Sam Manning.

During the 1950s, however, a range of factors, including increased affluence, the growth of television ownership and the diversification of leisure activities led to rapid declines in attendance at cinemas.

By 1965, as outlined by Manning, admissions had plummeted to 327 million

and, by 1984, cinema attendances in Britain had declined to one million a week. Many cinemas closed their doors and those that remained open competed with a range of venues including bingo halls, dance halls, bowling alleys, cafés and people’s homes.

The first British multiplex was built in 1985 and by the late 2000s there was a boom in out-of-town multiplex cinemas, with weekly attendees rocketing to three million per week.

Meanwhile, independent cinema has also enjoyed a revival … with audiences relishing the opportunity to enjoy a range of entertainment in an intimate and engaging environment.

The history of independent cinema is perfectly reflected in Derbyshire through The Ritz and Palace cinemas in Belper and The Northern Light Cinema in Wirksworth.

Originally built in in 1882 for £3,500

The Ritz in Belper before it closed c.1992.

Picture courtesy of Belper Historical Society

as Belper’s Public Hall, The Ritz was a municipal building used for a variety of purposes such as a court, library, theatre and meeting hall. In 1919, its purpose evolved, due to its wide expanse and significant seating capacity, to screen films part-time using a rear projection system. This proved to be extremely popular as a result of its convenience and ‘one of a kind’ nature for Belper. Across the UK, the 1930s were dubbed as cinema’s

‘Golden Age’ with nearly all feature-length movies being presented with synchronised sound and often in full colour. So, the popularity of The Ritz was no surprise and, in 1935, it was converted into a full-time cinema, to accommodate 720 people.

It was officially reopened and named The Ritz, by its owners, the Morley family, who also owned its twin venue just half a mile down the same street.

The Belper Picture Palace had opened in 1914 with seating for around 850 people. By 1934, it was re-named the Palace Cinema and equipped with a Western Electric (WE) sound system.

The Ritz and Palace were the first town cinemas in the country to be twinned, offering the approximately 1,181 residents of Belper two venues to enjoy a Friday night ‘at the pictures’ from 1935.

Above: The original

Cinema

1952. Picture courtesy of Picture the Past

and demolished shortly after in July 1962 with a retail unit taking its place.

“As multiplexes emerged and continued to encourage new interest in cinema, opportunities for independents also grew.”

Similarly, The Ritz was undergoing some key changes to remain in operation. In 1971, it was converted into a twin-screen cinema with some of the former stalls being converted into a bingo club. Each screen now had 75-seats, a significant reduction from the previous 720 attendees it used to host in one sitting. In October 1991, it was taken over by Silverline and shortly after closed.

By 1954, both had been sold and taken over by the Leeds-based Star Cinemas chain. Palace Cinema was closed in 1960

The Wirksworth Cinema was opened on St John’s Street in March 1935 by Billy Alton and featured a 525-seat venue along with the 120-seat Cavendish Café and Dance Hall. The cinema closed in 1960 but was soon re-opened under new owners before

Above: Demolition of the Palace Cinema in July 1962. Picture courtesy of Belper Historical Society

Above: The Palace Cinema, 1962. Picture courtesy of Belper Historical Society

Below: The Ritz cinema today. Pictures courtesy of The Ritz Cinema, Belper

Top: The Palace Cinema in Belper during the 1950s. Picture courtesy of Belper Historical Society

Wirksworth

in

finally closing its doors in 1967 with the showing of ‘Daleks Invasion Earth 2150.’ It was converted into a Silverline Bingo Club.

As multiplexes emerged and continued to encourage new interest in cinema, opportunities for independents also grew.

In November 2006 The Ritz in Belper was taken over by new operators, co-owners Amanda Mundin and Neil Roberts and their family. The circle was reverted back to a single auditorium, with bingo continuing downstairs.

The Ritz became the first town cinema in the East Midlands to re-open. Amanda and Neil, alongside their children, invested in The Ritz due to their love of film and the desire to provide Belper with a convenient and highly popular film venue again.

Today, The Ritz has seating for 99 people, with a mix of seating including luxury seats and sofas. It has a fully licenced bar, which serves coffee, tea, home-made cakes and other classic cinema confectionary, like popcorn.

The former cinema venue in Wirksworth has never been reinstated in line with its former purpose as the building was used as Stones of Wirksworth builders’ merchant and hardware store until 2022.

However, the town’s former cinematic glamour was reinstated with the founding of the Northern Light Cinema in 2013. This new cinematic space was created by Paul Carr and Esther Patterson, who converted

the former Weston’s electrical showroom in The Malthouse to create the space. Seating 52 people, the cinema has provided valuable local access to culture and entertainment in Wirksworth, as well as much needed employment, with 2019 seeing over 18,000 tickets sold. In 2023, the venue was taken over by The Ritz’s owners, Amanda and Neil, growing their family business of managing and reinstating former film venues.

Both The Ritz and The Northern Light show a wide selection of films both old and new to cater for all audiences and bring an element of nostalgia to those who visit. Both venues are easily accessible to those who live in local towns. The fresh homemade cake, glass drinkware and ceramic crockery, coupled with sofas and luxury seating, make you feel as though you are popping round to your friend’s for a cup of tea, cake and a film – but on the big screen! This personalised and ‘homey’ aspect of cinema is a testament to its popularity still today.

Above: The bar at The Northern Light Cinema.

Top left: The Northern Light Cinema, Wirksworth.

Both Pictures courtesy The Northern Light Cinema

Rising Star: Celebrating First Class Learning’s Student of the Year

EVERY year, First Class Learning honours a student who embodies dedication, resilience, steady progress, and a genuine love of learning. This year’s standout is Adshaya Sujeeban, a remarkable young learner whose commitment has shone from the start.

A student at St Mary’s Catholic High School, Chesterfield, Adshaya has attended First Class Learning for two years –and her progress has been extraordinary. She completes around 300 calculations every day, strengthening her

maths skills through practice, revision, and perseverance.

Her ambition extends well beyond numbers. At the First Class Learning After-School

Club, she has made outstanding progress in English, improving her grammar, punctuation, spelling, vocabulary, text organisation, comprehension, and story writing.

Her teachers, her family, and the entire First Class Learning team are immensely proud. Her form teacher, Mr Ross, sums her up perfectly:

“Adshaya is always working hard, pushing her knowledge, and reaping the

benefits. Congratulations, Adshaya!”

Her parents, Hemaalini and Sujeeba, and her sister Ranosha share that pride.

Help your child take the same confident step forward

T: 07887 863877

E: chesterfield@ firstclasslearning.co.uk Classes in Wingerworth, Brampton, and St Mary’s Catholic High School.

TAKE A CRUISE HOLIDAY FOR

AMAZING VALUE IN 2026 AND 2027

THE friendly and experienced team at Martins World Travel is renowned for its in-depth knowledge of all major cruise lines and its ability to match travellers with holidays perfectly suited to their tastes. With so many itineraries available for 2026 and 2027, cruising continues to offer exceptional value, remarkable convenience, and unforgettable experiences

Popular sailings include the breathtaking Norwegian Fjords, the dramatic volcanic landscapes of Iceland, and adventurous voyages farther north to Spitzbergen and Greenland. For guests seeking winter sunshine, the Canary Islands, Madeira and the Azores provide welcome warmth, while the Mediterranean remains a year-round favourite

thanks to its blend of cultures, coastlines and historic gems.

The ever-popular Caribbean also offers a beautiful backdrop for winter and spring escapes.

P&O CRUISES

P&O Cruises offer an outstanding range of holidays whether travellers prefer to sail directly from Southampton or opt for a fly-cruise to join their ship overseas. Guests can explore iconic cities, coastal hideaways, cultural landmarks and unforgettable natural wondersoften waking to a new destination each morning. The convenience of cruising means luggage stays unpacked, transfers are taken care of, and travellers can enjoy a relaxing night’s sleep while the ship sails quietly to the next port.

P&O’s shore experiences are curated with care and delivered in partnership with knowledgeable local experts, offering authentic and memorable ways to connect with each destination. With many cruises including evening stays or overnight calls, travellers have time to enjoy local nightlife or immerse themselves more deeply in a city’s character. On board, stylish cabins provide a peaceful retreat and the simple pleasure of waking to a new horizon.

Some of the world’s greatest sights are best seen from the sea – from gliding through Norway’s majestic fjords to slipping beneath the Golden Gate Bridge or navigating the dramatic Panama Canal. Add in the sunsets, the sea breezes and the endless views, and it becomes clear why cruising continues to captivate travellers year after year.

Life on board offers its own discoveries: spa treatments, theatre shows, exceptional dining, loungers by quiet pools, and elegant bars serving cocktails as the world drifts by. With so much included and so little to worry about, cruising allows every guest to unwind completely.

AMBASSADOR CRUISE LINE

Ambassador, Britain’s authentic no-fly cruise line, is fast becoming a favourite among travellers seeking great-value

quality cruising from eight convenient regional UK ports. Guests enjoy West End–style entertainment, outstanding service and delicious cuisine – all with a distinctly British flavour, from proper cups of tea to classic afternoon teas served on board. By sailing from ports close to home, travellers avoid airport queues, baggage restrictions and flight delays. Ambassador’s itineraries span destinations from the sunlit streets of northern Spain to the magical Northern Lights of Alta in Norway, as well as Mediterranean escapes and newly introduced fly-cruises to the Caribbean. No-fly cruising remains one of the easiest, most relaxing ways to travel.

EU ENTRY/EXIT SYSTEM (EES)

The EU’s new Entry/Exit System, introduced on 12th October 2025, requires British passport holders travelling to Schengen Area countries to provide biometric details on arrival. However, cruise passengers embarking

and disembarking in the UK are exempt from this process. This exemption applies to all UKoriginating cruises, but travellers are still encouraged to check the latest guidance before departure.

FRED. OLSEN CRUISE LINES

Fred. Olsen Cruises is a familyrun company with 175 years of maritime experience. Its three elegant ships - Balmoral, Bolette and Borealis - offer an intimate, friendly atmosphere paired with high standards of comfort, exceptional cuisine and thoughtfully crafted itineraries. Whether guests seek cultural exploration, wildlife encounters, dramatic scenery or simply relaxation, Fred. Olsen’s cruises deliver. Their journeys span the globe: Norway’s fjords and Northern Lights, Iceland’s raw natural beauty, South America and Antarctica’s once-in-a-lifetime vistas, the sun-soaked Canary Islands, the history-rich Mediterranean, and journeys closer to home celebrating the British Isles.

TUI MARELLA CRUISES

TUI Marella Cruises - part of the award-winning TUI family - sails to more than 100 ports worldwide. With

almost three decades of sailing experience, Marella blends friendly service, modern comforts and the reassurance of TUI’s holiday expertise. Whether travellers prefer tropical islands, coastal cities or cultural capitals, a Marella cruise offers something fresh and exciting over every horizon.

PLAN YOUR CRUISE WITH MARTINS WORLD TRAVEL

The knowledgeable cruise specialists at Martins World Travel offer impartial advice to help each customer choose the right ship and itinerary. With brochures from all leading cruise lines and two welcoming agencies in Derbyshire, planning a dream cruise has never been easier.

CALL AND DISCUSS YOUR TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS WITH OUR FRIENDLY AND EXPERT TEAM 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

ABTA Bonded.

Derbyshire’s Emmy Statham always dreamed of a showbiz career. Now, as she tells Fiona Stubbs, her moment has arrived with girl band XO

THEY’RE hailed as one of Britain’s most exciting new pop acts - poised to become the country’s next major girl band.

And, taking her place in the line-up of self-proclaimed “force-ofnature five-piece” XO is Derbyshire singer Emmy Statham.

Alongside bandmates Reanna, Shali, Summer and Zoe, Emmy is celebrating the release of their debut EP, Fashionably Late, via Polydor Label Group.

The six-track project promises a burst of chaotic, Gen Z energy, pairing razor-sharp pop instincts with a refreshingly imperfect ethos.

It follows a whirlwind autumn that included the group’s sold-out debut UK headline tour. Now, XO have announced a bigger run, in May 2026, including dates in Manchester, Birmingham, Glasgow and London.

For Emmy, who grew up in Ripley and went to school in Swanwick, her place in XO is a dream come true. “I’ve always wanted to be a performer,” she says. “Growing up, music was my first love and led me to 15 years of training in dance and performing arts.

“I recently found my bucket list – written when I was 11 or 12 years old – and the last two points were ‘be in a girl band’ and ‘perform to over 50,000 people’. Hopefully I’ll live my full childhood dream and tick off that last point!”

The band is aware of both the opportunities and challenges facing young people and, in 2025, embarked on a tour of schools across the UK, performing to pupils in years 7 to 10 and hosting discussions around mental health, body image and aspirations.

“Our main goal with our music is to encourage our listeners to be unapologetically themselves and we like to think that we carry this within ourselves and our brand,” adds Emmy. “We are in an era of ‘perfection’ – with AI and filters - which particularly affects young adults. We want to bring back the art of being messy and

FASHIONABLY LATE,RIGHT ON TIME

Emmy Statham.

Picture: Beck Cooke

making mistakes and having fun and not taking anything too seriously.

“We always knew that we would attract a young audience, especially since doing our schools tours, but we definitely create - and want to keep creating - music for all ears. It was nice, during our headline tour, to see that our audiences had a wide age range. Some of the mums who brought their kids said the performance gave them a sense of nostalgia from the Spice Girls and the ’90s era.

“The feeling that Britpop brought to the ’90s is something we try to carry with us every day and, if our listeners feel any sense of escapism in that from us, then we couldn’t be happier.”

XO formed after all five members attended the same audition and Emmy says they’ve been inseparable ever since. They discovered a series of coincidences: Emmy and Summer had already danced together on BBC’s The Greatest Dancer; Shali and Reanna lived ten minutes apart.

“It felt a little like fate,” smiles Emmy. “From day one, we realised that we brought out each other’s humour and energy. What’s nice is that, despite having distinct individuality in our voices and personalities, we all piece together so perfectly.”

Looking forward to 2026 … XO are tipped to be Britian’s next big girl band.

They describe themselves as ‘chaotic’ and the new EP captures that spirit, charting the arc of a night out, from the frantic fun of getting ready (Rush Hour and Give a Girl Her Shoe!) to letting your hair down (viral fan favourite Ponytail) to romantic feelings in debut single Lovesick

The track Real Friends is a rallying cry for sisterhood, co-written with Charli XCX, while the closer, Silly Boy, was sparked by an incident of catcalling witnessed by Zoe and Shali.

“Performing is always the highlight for us and we are so eager to get back on stage,” says Emmy. “Our plans for 2026 and onwards are big and exciting. We love travelling and can’t wait to start travelling internationally.

“I hope we can experience everything this career has to offer. We want to make good music that has impact and is important to people –and just to have the most fun along the way.”

Picture: Alice Backham

The ornate bridge once used to take food from Strutt’s manor house to parties in the gardens across the road. Picture courtesy of Adrian Farmer

Belper History Walk

When a Belper business began renovating one of the town’s most historic buildings as its new base, it sparked renewed interest in the area’s past.

Claire’s School Solutions is a supply teaching agency and will soon move into The Old School House on Green Lane – the second oldest building in Belper.

The company asked local historian Adrian Farmer to advise on the building’s history. It prompted a wider curiosity, culminating in a neighbourhood walk with Adrian which gave intriguing glimpses into the past.

Jo Gotheridge, who works as social media assistant for Claire’s School Solutions, shares their guided tour.

The Missing Bridge

We started our guided walk at the Memorial Gardens looking down King Street - such a familiar sight to the residents of Belper! What is less familiar is the fact that there was once an ornate bridge across the road from what was the Strutts’ manor house to the memorial garden opposite.

The reason for this bridge was purely so that Jedediah Strutt’s staff could take food for parties in the garden via the bridge rather than using the road which the general public used. How extravagant! Especially when you consider that the bridge was only there from 1832-1867.

After the Strutts relocated, their previous home (minus the bridge), known as Green Hall, was used as a hospital during the First World War.

Green Lane

We walked to Green Lane - the location of our new premises. We were surprised to learn that this lane was previously called ‘Market Street Lane’ and before that ‘Meeting House Lane’. This makes sense as we have also been informed that our new building was also once called The Old Meeting House. We are passionate about keeping the spirit of the school house and being sensitive

to the aesthetic appearance of what is the second oldest building in Belper. We view it as a real privilege to be restoring this building, using local suppliers and craftsmen in order to support the local community.

Up, up and Away!

As we proceeded along the road towards Albert Street, we learned that, in the 1880s, this area was known as ‘Festival Field. We were stunned to learn that this was the scene of what should have been the town’s first manned balloon flight. However, it didn’t take off as planned - the reason given was ‘bad air’! Once the man had come out of the basket, the balloon shot into the air and flew over towards the Chevin, pursued by the owner who borrowed a horse to chase after it! It is definitely the stuff that would make the local news these days!

Other buildings of note on Green Lane

As we looked at Beech Lawn, now a solicitors, we learned that this was a doctor’s home, with a surgery down the side which operated until the 1960s. Sadly the big Beech tree has since been removed but the name remains.

The area near Green Lane was the religious sector of Belper, with the Congregational Church, St Peter’s Church and The Unitarian Chapel. There was once a Primitive Methodist chapel opposite St Peter’s called the Salem Chapel.

Old Town and New Town

As you look up the road, The Orchard, you can see a beautiful house, which was once a school for girls. The rest of the road, which leads up to the house, was previously a gated driveway up to the school.

As we proceeded along Green Lane, we learned that Field Lane was the boundary between the old and the new town, with Strutt workers’ houses to the north and the older pre-Strutt community to the south. The workers’ houses were tightly packed and located on Field Row, Joseph, William and George Street.

Cluster houses

On these parallel roads, cluster houses were built. The houses are designed to form four back-to-back houses. Each block was sited in the centre of a large plot and, as they were built, each house had a building in the garden incorporating a privy and a pigsty. It also meant that heating could be shared. These were among the more expensive Strutt properties, demanding a higher rent.

Field Row features houses of three storeys, a step up from the nearby houses in the Short Rows.

Home of the Nailers!

As we wandered down Joseph Street, we were able to see a unique, lasting reminder of the eminence of nail-making in the town. The Nailshop was just one of the buildings where up to 1000 nails were produced per day. There was high quality iron ore close to Belper.

At one point, there were 400 separate nailmakers in the town. Due to this significant workmanship in Belper at the time, can you guess now why the local football team is still to this day called ‘The Nailers’?! How many of those standing supporting on a Saturday actually know why this is?

You can see that the Nailshop stands almost exactly as it was, with the beautifully painted window and cast iron window frame.

Sinister times at The Cedars

As the night drew in and the air turned cold, Adrian took us down a sinister path where we learned that about the murder of Phoebe Barnes in the Cedars. On Friday, 26th March 1852, Anthony Turner was hanged for the murder of his employer, Mrs. Phoebe Barnes at Belper. She had written to him dismissing him from his post. Turner borrowed a large carving knife (used for cutting bacon) from a local shop, forced his way into her house, dragged her to the back yard and slit her throat.

Gitties, ginnels or alleyways? No - channels!

Cutting through the incredibly narrow paths – called channels – you can come

to the other parallel roads of George Street and William Street. As we all had to breathe in, clearly the inhabitants who lived here before were built very differently!

Gas-lit beauty

Next – to Long Row, which is renowned for its beauty and breathtaking appearance. Even for someone who dropped her daughter off at the school here for many years, the sight of this once-gaslit street on this chilly night, was still a sight to behold. The stunning gas street lamps were restored in order to keep the unique appearance of this iconic street. Belper was only the second place out of London to have gas street lamps, installed in 1822. It came of no surprise to us to learn that when Adrian brought a contingent from UNESCO on a similar tour to us, one of the party was moved to tears by this street’s beauty.

Belper Nailshop is a unique, lasting reminder of the eminence of nail-making in the town.

Picture: Adrian Farmer

Belper Nailshop window. Picture: Jo Gotheridge

Historic view of Long Row. Picture courtesy of Adrian Farmer

A three storey house at Field Row. Picture: Jo Gotheridge

Belper ice-cream

At the top of the road, stands the laundry house, which until 1992 was home to the ice cream factory Mazzas – a well-known family business. What a pity that we do not still have an ice cream factory in the town, especially at the end of the road with a school.

Bring back Wakes week!

We were astonished to discover that there used to be ‘Wakes Week’ in the town in July. As part of this, there were wooden arches built over the road, decorated with garlands and flowers. The tradition of Wakes Week still happens in some Derbyshire villages, but sadly no more in Belper.

The return of the Donkey races

As we make our way back to Green Lane, a water pump on Short Row marks the start of the infamous donkey races, which will be re-enacted next year for the Strutt mills’ 250th anniversary celebrations, although sadly only with hobby horses! Although, perhaps it is best as when real donkeys were used, a brawl broke out when riders became overly-competitive and fought over who was to win the barrel of ale! I am sure next year’s celebrations will be far more dignified!

Steeped in history at our final stop

Our final stop was to be the Unitarian chapel, very appropriate as we are moving into the Unitarian School House at the other end of the lane. Jedediah Strutt built this – he was a committed Unitarian. Inside, it

was as though we were stepping back in time; we could almost imagine Jedediah sitting in the pews. Although not these particular ones as these are tiny, specifically for the children of the Sunday school.

The culmination (and highlight of our tour) was when we were offered the opportunity to see the vault. Of course,

we jumped at the chance – although with some trepidation on this dark night! However, this vault is not underground, as in many churches. Occasionally the vault is opened for tours and is candle lit.

The family crypt has open boxed spaces where the coffins would be placed and then sealed in. It was a sobering end to our visit.

The Claire’s team thoroughly enjoyed our historical tour of Green Lane and feel truly privileged to be a part of the ongoing restoration of the town. It is so important to embrace the history of our town, preserve it in keeping with the nature of what has passed before and look forward to many more years of being in Belper –this epicentre of Derwent Mills history.

Learn more about Claire’s School Solutions and its renovation project at https://www.weare-css.co.uk/our-newoffices/ or its Facebook page https:// www.facebook.com/profile. php? id=61572698997487

Long Row’s gas street lamps have been restored, preserving the appearance of this historic street. Picture: Adrian Farmer

Inside the Unitarian Chapel built by Jedediah Strutt. Picture: Adrian Farmer

Pews for the children of the Sunday School in the Unitarian chapel. Pic Jo Gotheridge

Inside the crypt. Picture: Jo Gotheridge

Prize Crossword

Congratulations to R Leah of Dronfield, who won the December 2025 crossword. They won £25

Why not have a go at the January 2026 crossword on page 59