Reflections Magazine November 2024

November 2024

REFLECTIONS MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2024

Editor: Barrie Farnsworth, E: barrief@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

Social Media: Rebecca Bloomfield, E: hello@bannisterpublications.com

Accounts: Helen Holgate, E: admin@bannisterpublications.co.uk

Distribution: E: distribution@bannisterpublications.co.uk

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, 2, 3, 4 / S41 0, S41 7, 8, 9 / S42 - 5, 6, 7

8 A decade of capturing the imagination of children!

Sue Wilkins has published a celebratory edition of her first book, Alfie’s Story 16 Ash(born) in the USA – no, in Derbyshire! Patrick Coleman looks at the many settlements in the USA named after places in Derbyshire.

24 Property of the Month

A detached property in Chesterfield with no upward chain 34,36,46,78 Countywide News

All that’s been happening across the county in words and pictures

40 Celebrating the quiet strength of the women of Eyam

After launching a business in Eyam, Anne Hyde was moved by the fortitude shown by village women from the time of plague through to the present. Fiona Stubbs finds out more.

44 Introducing the ‘Nozee Parkers’

Local author and illustrator Kevin Lavender has published two new ‘Nozee Parker’ books

52 Fashion

Our style guru Amy Norbury wraps up warm as she looks at what coats are available to take us through the winter months

60 Pitcher Wits

61 Crossword

62 Lee’s photographs are simply superb!

Barrie Farnsworth meets a stunning Peak District photographer

66 WASPI women shouldn’t have to wait… Angela Madden of Wadshelf, is the national chair of Women Against State Pension Inequality (WASPI). She reports on how the campaign is going since the new Labour Government was elected.

69 Chef’s Signature Dish

We have a delightful dish from Kelly Mason, who has worked with the team at Chatsworth Kitchen at Peak Village, Rowsley

74 Focus on Food & Drink

There’s a real taste of Spain in Derbyshire, as Fiona Stubbs reports

80 Antiques

Our expert Vivienne Milburn looks at trembleuse cups and saucers, which can make over £1,000 at auction

82 Top Pet

The latest entries into our competition – and we need YOUR votes

88 Out & About

Head north for big, open spaces!

90 Artist of the Month

Steve Brown meets a busy working mum whose illustrations are superb 92 ‘Lovely landscapes’ 2024 competition

Our last readers’ pictures before the finals next month

74 69 44

96 What’s On

Our comprehensive guide to forthcoming events across the county and beyond in November

Sue Wilkins: A decade of capturing the imagination of children!

IT was in 2014 that local Derbyshire children’s author, Sue Wilkins, published her first book, ‘Alfie’s Story’. And Sue is the first to admit that, not even in her wildest dreams, did she ever think that, ten years later, she would be publishing a celebratory 10th anniversary edition.

Something else she would never have believed possible is that, during these last ten years, she would have written and published a total of six children’s books and had total sales in excess of 26,000.

Even as a child, Sue, who is based in Darley Dale, enjoyed reading poetry and verse, particularly in the Rupert annuals. Later, she began writing verses for friends’ birthdays and retirement celebrations. This natural skill prompted people to tell her that she should write a story.

Eventually, Sue decided to write about Alfie, her cat, who appeared in her garden one day and eventually moved in with her. She showed the story to friends, who liked it. She decided therefore to submit it to literary agents. After many compliments, but no firm commitments, she came across the self-publishing opportunity offered by the Chesterfield-based Bannister Publications. The initial meeting with Bannister Publications was productive and encouraging. Here was a local publisher always on hand to offer guidance and support. It soon became apparent, however, that there was one key ingredient missing to take the book idea forward – an illustrator.

“Alfie’s Story”

Purely by chance, Sue met local artist, Liz Furness, who was also keen to add her imagination and beautiful illustrations to the story. This was Liz’s first opportunity to illustrate a book, and she relished the opportunity. Together, they took the plunge and produced “Alfie’s Story”. Sue’s rhyming couplet style was ideally complemented with Liz’s lovely illustrations. A productive partnership was born! 1500 copies of ‘Alfie’s Story’ were published. As a self-published author, promoting books involves a great deal of footslogging. Within the first week, Sue had persuaded five shops to take them and by the end of the first month, she had visited 17 – seven of which had placed a second order with her. In those first four weeks, she sold 195 books into shops, along with another 40 plus to family and friends.

“Fearless Flynn”

the Duck’, which was published in 2016. An accompanying soft toy would soon become an add-on feature of Sue’s books.

Sue’s fourth book, like ‘Alfie’s Story’, is another true tale about three kittens whom she adopted just before Christmas. ‘A Tale of Three Kittens: Milly, Molly and Maisy’ was published in 2018.

Sue’s next, ‘Owl to the Rescue’, features lots of woodland creatures and tells the exciting story of how a wise old owl rescues some of his woodland friends. It was published in October 2019, soon after which she was accepted as an official supplier to the National Trust.

Liz had decided to include a little mouse in the illustrations in “Alfie’s Story”, which inspired Sue to write her second story. The book was entitled “Fearless Flynn”, a story about a courageous little mouse.

Marriage and Guidance

Up to now, Sue had been working alone, promoting her books. It was on one such occasion, when she was on duty in the Green Man Gallery in Buxton, that a customer bought two of her books for his grandchildren. It turned out he was interested in more than her books. Twelve months later they were married! Since then, Sue and Ged have worked together on the books. Sue readily admits, “With Ged’s additional support, the business has gone from strength to strength.”

“Arkwright the Duck”, “A Tale of three Kittens: Milly, Molly, and Maisy”, “Owl to the Rescue” and “Bobby the Dog”

Sue’s first two books, published in 2014 and 2015, sold well in a number of local outlets, one of which was the gift shop at Cromford Mill near Matlock, Derbyshire. As a result, the Arkwright Society commissioned Sue to write a story for their soft toy mascot – ‘Arkwright

On 31 July 2022, after achieving over 20,000 sales of all her books, Sue launched her sixth title, ‘Bobby Dog’. The National Trust at Calke Abbey near Derby hosted this event, which was a tremendous success for all.

Celebratory 10th edition of “Alfie’s Story”

The next chapter happened at the end of 2023 when ‘Alfie’s Story’ sold out. Normally, Sue would have simply ordered another print run. But realising that 2024 was the book’s 10th anniversary, she and Liz produced a celebratory 10th anniversary edition – with a dedication to both their mums, Mary and Jackie.

The next project

Last year, Sue was approached by Sarah McLeod, CEO at the Wentworth Woodhouse Preservation Trust, near Rotherham. Apparently, they have hundreds of resident bats which they have to take care of. ‘Billy the Bat’ is due to be published next year. Sue has written the story, and Liz is due to start the illustrations very soon.

All of Sue’s books and soft toys are available from https://www.suewilkins. co.uk. As a treat, the first 20 orders for 10th anniversary celebratory edition of ‘Alfie’s Story’ will receive a free Alfie cat soft toy, which normally costs £10!

We are all whole, but so often bits of us get lost through trauma or dis-ease…

Leading us to feel like a shadow of our true self, existing rather than living, surviving rather than thriving – is this you?

If so, I can help to bring you back to wholeness through transforming your energy system and promoting self-rejuvenation.

Ash(born) in the USA – no, in Derbyshire!

Patrick Coleman looks at the many settlements in the USA named after places in Derbyshire.

WHEN English colonists sailed ‘across the pond’ in the 17th Century to found what would become the United States of America, they brought with them many of the place names they knew

and loved. Maybe feeling a little homesick after the long voyage, they created an entire ‘New England’ in the northeastern corner of the New World.

One province – now a state – was named after a southern county: Hampshire.

But while there might not be a ‘New Derbyshire’ to contend with the fame of ‘New Hampshire’, plenty of immigrants helped write familiar Derbyshire place names all over the map of America.

If you travel to the capital itself, Washington DC, you can find yourself strolling through the neighbourhood of Eckington. It is exactly one mile north of the US Capitol building and was named in honour of the village of Eckington, Derbyshire, by the 9th Mayor of Washington, Joseph Gales. Gales may not have been one of the early colonists, but he was born in the Derbyshire village in 1786, the son of a printer whose republican sympathies led him to emigrate to the US in 1795.

Joseph grew up to become the proprietor of Washington’s ‘National Intelligencer’

newspaper, as well as the official printer to the US Congress. He campaigned for the election of President John Quincy Adams, and in 1827 was himself chosen as Mayor of the City of Washington, the only person born outside the US to hold that position. After his retirement in 1830, Gales built himself a ‘country mansion’ –which he named Eckington in honour of his birthplace – on the tract of land which now forms a whole neighbourhood.

Above: Gales built himself a ‘country mansion’ – which he named Eckington in honour of his birthplace – on the tract of land which now forms a whole neighbourhood.

The Derbyshire and US Eckingtons share little in common these days but their names. But the Castleton in Vermont, US, is much more similar to its Peak District namesake, both being celebrated for their scenic beauty. The New England Castleton was first settled by colonists moving in from Massachusetts in 1768. They were led by a Colonel Benjamin Waite, whose family hailed from Castleton, Derbyshire, and who fixed the name to his new town.

exploring the surrounding countryside. It sits on picturesque Lake Bomoseen within its own State Park.

Larger Derbyshire towns, like Chesterfield, often have several American equivalents.

“Most of the Chesterfields in the US are technically named for the Earls of Chesterfield.”

Like our Castleton, the one in Vermont is popular with hikers

Opposite left: Joseph Gales, who was born in Eckingtom, Derbyshire, became the 9th Mayor of Washington.

Right: The Cape Hatteras lighthouse in Buxton, North Carolina, is the tallest in the USA.

Below: Lake Bomoseen is close to Castleton, Vermont – named by a settler whose family hailed from the Derbyshire village of the same name.

Most of the Chesterfields in the US are technically named for the Earls of Chesterfield, rather than for the town directly. The 4th Earl was so well known in the colonies for his writings, ‘good manners’, and procolonial politics, that two whole counties were named after him: Chesterfield, Virginia was formed in 1749; Chesterfield,

South Carolina in 1785.

North Carolina, meanwhile, is home to a Buxton, which sits on the Atlantic coast in a dangerous area once known as the

Above: The town of Matlock, close to the Pacific coast, is home to a large logging industry – and terrifying railways!

‘Graveyard of the Atlantic’. For that reason, Congress ordered the building of a lighthouse in 1870. Buxton thus became home to the Cape Hatteras Light, the tallest lighthouse in the United States at 210 feet. It is famed across the country for its distinctive spiral decoration. On the other side of the country, nearer the Pacific coast, lies the secluded town of Matlock. It is surrounded by forest, the home of a large logging industry, and like the Derbyshire town it is named after, is also home to many legends. Local folklore has made a ‘bogeyman’ out of Matlock native John Tornow. Known as the ‘Wild Man of Wynoochee’, he was consigned to a lunatic asylum in 1909, but escaped into the woods where he lived for many years. Tornow was often spied by loggers with a long, shaggy hair and beard, becoming a terrifying figure in the imagination of Matlock’s children.

The west of America is, of course, a very long way from New England, but those settlers who made the westward journey did not forget the places that they, or their ancestors, had once known. In California, the Old Santa Susana Wagon Road was used by travellers moving to what is now Los Angeles County. In 1888, the downward pass

was recorded as entering an area named ‘Chatsworth Park’. This area developed into the township of Chatsworth, a place made famous by 20th Century Hollywood, which filmed huge numbers of Westerns and war movies on the Iverson Movie Ranch there. Gary Cooper, John Wayne and Laurel and Hardy all filmed at Chatsworth. Unsurprisingly, the town was named after Chatsworth House, the Derbyshire home of the Duke of Devonshire.

The main route through Chatsworth, Los Angeles is named Devonshire Street, the designation chosen by its developer W. B. Barber, who had grown up near the ducal residence. The people of the Californian Chatsworth have long celebrated their connection to the Devonshires. In 1944, their Chamber of Commerce wrote to the 10th Duke to ask permission to use the ducal coat of arms on their official paperwork. The request was granted, and in 1988 the 11th Duke planned to travel to California to celebrate the American Chatsworth’s centenary. In the event, this didn’t happen as it would have clashed with a royal tour. But the Duke sent a letter to be read to the people of the community, and received a visit from members to his House in Derbyshire. The American Chatsworth Park is today, like its Derbyshire cousin, a magnet for tourists. It includes the rolling Simi Hills with the 700-foot Chatsworth Peak, home for centuries to the Chumash Native American Indians.

Every region of the US seems to have its nod to Derbyshire. Even in the deep South you can come across familiar names: Bakewell lies along Route 27 in Tennessee; in the north, nearer the Great Lakes, you can pass through Whittington, Illinois. Derbyshire had its influence on the USA even before the nation’s birth. Founding father Benjamin Franklin famously visited Derbyshire in 1759, staying for a time in Alfreton. It’s

just possible he inspired some Derbyshire dwellers to follow him across to the then Colonies.

There certainly were many from our county who headed to America. But surprisingly, many of the recorded colonists never managed to establish any lasting settlements named for their birthplaces. One of the earliest, John Oldham (1595-1636) was a Puritan who travelled to Plymouth Colony. He founded a town in Connecticut, but after being killed by Indians, the settlement was named Wethersfield after a village in Essex.

The infamous Wragg brothers of Chesterfield were not responsible for any of the Chesterfields found in the USA today, though

Wraggborough in South Carolina is named after the younger of the pair, Joseph (1698-1751). Both brothers were born in Chesterfield before moving to London and then emigrating to South Carolina, and both appear in history for the wrong reasons. Joseph captained slave ships and became the dominant slave trader in South Carolina. Samuel was captured by the pirate Blackbeard in 1718 and had to negotiate his way out of the situation.

Nevertheless, Chesterfield remains one of the most ubiquitous Derbyshire place names in the United States. It is surpassed in number only by Derby, there being some 17 places across America named after the county seat. Not all are actually named for the city, but one that is unequivocally is Derby, Connecticut. It was named in honour of the English Derby in 1675 and went on to share in a common

Above: The township of Chatsworth in Los Angeles County, California, even has a Devonshire Street!

Below inset: A poster of the movie LIttle Big Horn. Lots of Westerns, including this film, were shot at Chatsworth in California.

Below: The Old Santa Susana Wagon Road was used by travellers moving to what is now Los Angeles County. In 1888, the downward pass was recorded as entering an area named ‘Chatsworth Park’.

history. Both Derbys played major roles in the Industrial Revolutions of their respective countries, as both became manufacturing hotspots. Indeed, Derby, Connecticut became home to a bustling textile industry, taking its cues from the first-ever factory in the world: the Silk Mill in Derby, England, birthplace of the Industrial Revolution.

• Stunning kitchen, dining and living area

• Detached three-bedroomed traditional residence of character

• Expansive kitchen, living room, and open-plan dining area

• Beautiful gardens to the front and rear

• Driveway and large double garage

• Situated on a quiet tree-lined avenue in a desirable suburb

• Spacious and flexible accommodation with potential to extend (subject to consent)

• No upward chain

on 01246 233121

ENCOURAGING SIGNS FOR HOUSING MARKET

THERE are encouraging signs that the property market is improving as the number of enquiries and property transactions increases at Graysons Solicitors, which the head of its property team, Caroline Murray, says is supportive of media news of activity pick up.

CAROLINE SAYS:

“Buyer confidence appears to be improving after interest rate cuts by the Bank of England and an expectation of further cuts, despite some lenders announcing an increase in fixed mortgage rates recently. Interest rates were reduced from 5.25% to 5% in August this year and the governor of the Bank of England has indicated that if inflation remains controlled, (announced as 1.7% on 16 October 24) it may be possible to reduce interest rates more quickly. So, there are hopes for further cuts by the bank in November or December.

The latest (September 2024) house price indices from Zoopla, Halifax and

Nationwide all show house prices increasing for the third month in a row, and all show an improved number of sales.”

Zoopla says that sales agreed and buyer demand have both rebounded, with 25% more sales agreed than a year ago and sales up by 10% across the country on last year’s figures, with the East Midlands and North East up by 30%.

Zoopla also has 12% more properties available than this time last year, and 32% of homes for sale on its site are currently ‘chain free’. This is possibly due to investors, landlords and second homeowners selling in anticipation of expected tax changes in the upcoming budget, and some councils looking to double council tax for second homeowners.

Halifax shows the highest growth in house prices since November 2022, with the average house price now £293,399, an increase in annual growth of 4.7%.

Nationwide shows that house prices are up 3.2% in the last year, showing the

average house price as £266,094. In Q3 2024 (July – September), prices were up by 1.9%, compared with the same quarter in 2023 and, with a year-on-year increase of 3.1%, Northern England (North, North West, Yorkshire & The Humber, East Midlands and West Midlands), outperformed the south.

CAROLINE SAYS:

“Further cuts to mortgage interest rates will help stimulate growth in the property market and we expect demand to continue to increase. The Bank of England’s own figures show that lenders are approving more mortgages month-on-month, with numbers up by almost 2,500 in August over July.”

With an excellent knowledge of the local property market, Graysons offers a full, high quality and competitive conveyancing service. You can get a no-obligation quotation for your sale or purchase by using our online calculator at www. graysons.co.uk/conveyancing-quote

Above: Caroline Murray, partner and head of Graysons’ property team.

A Magical New Lights Trail

THE Heights of Abraham announces an exciting and new event for the coming winter season – ‘The Lights of Abraham’ is a stunning light trail which will allow visitors to experience the magic of this family-friendly attraction in a brand new and enchanting light.

The event will extend the usual opening season at the Heights, taking place from Friday 22nd November until Monday 30th December, and welcomes visitors of all ages to experience the Heights magnificently illuminated by evening.

The light trail begins on the approach to the cable car base station itself, a festoon-lit riverside walk from the town of Matlock Bath, before alighting your gondola cable car and flying high through moonlit skies to reach the summit of another world. As you ascend,

see the myriad of lights in the town and colourful riverside approach all twinkling below. Upon arrival at the summit, join the lights trail which will lead through illuminated gardens, across boardwalks and woodland pathways – an illuminous adventure during which some interesting characters and magical scenes will unfold along the way. The trail will take approximately one hour, with extra time for refreshments.

For more details, see our What’s On page here: What’s On (heightsofabraham.com) 4.30pm until 9pm (last entry is at 8pm) Visitors are allocated a 15 min time slot for entry and can stay until closing time. Online booking is now open. Tickets are priced at: £21 adult; £15 child (under 3 years and carers, free). This event is not included in the annual pass as it is outside of the main season.

THE LIGHTS OF ABRAHAM

From Friday November 22nd, up to and including Monday 30th December (excluding three days over Christmas, i.e. 24-26th Dec) www.heightsofabraham.com

Countywide News

World Cup winners!

IAN Edmundson and John Longstaff, who play regularly in the Chesterfield ExSpires Over-60s team, played for England Over-75s that won the World Cup.

This was a seven-a-side competition with a maximum squad of 10 players; and England played Wales in the final. The England team was winning 3-1, but Wales finished strongly and drew level. A penalty shoot-out followed, which the England team won 4-3!

There were two other Derbyshire players in the winning England team, Dave Goucher (who used to play with Chesterfield ExSpires FC) and Terry Fletcher from Belper.

Hospice’s refurb gets underway

A REFURBISHMENT project at a Derbyshire hospice will double the capacity of outpatients it can provide palliative care for.

Work to enhance outpatient services at Ashgate Hospice’s site in Old Brampton, Chesterfield will be complete by January.

The project will see the charity’s Day Services area, as well as the main reception, waiting area, clinic rooms and fundraising hub upgraded.

As part of the plan, Day Services will be separated into three spaces to provide a larger capacity and variety for its regular drop-in sessions. Rooms will also be redecorated and new furnishings installed.

The revamped space will allow the hospice to run drop-in sessions, activities and other programmes at the same time. It will also mean the service can be opened

for an additional two days per week, meaning double the number of people will potentially be able to access the unit.

Sarah Kerry, Day Services Manager for Ashgate Hospice, said: “Having flexibility in the space gives us the chance to increase the variety of our services for our patients.”

Throughout the refurbishment, the hospice’s Day Services will relocate to Ashgate’s Harry Fisher building on the site, which will serve as the temporary hospice reception. Outpatient clinics will be based on the hospice’s Inpatient Unit, while phone and video call services will continue. Find out more at ashgatehospice.org.uk

Chesterfield u3a anniversary CAMEO

IN autumn 1994, Chesterfield u3a began with walking, theatre and discussion groups. Thirty years later, it has over 800 members and 77 active groups from Art Appreciation to Zumba.

At significant anniversaries, Chesterfield u3a celebrates with a CAMEO – Come and Meet Each Other – meeting for u3a members and the wider public.

The 30th anniversary event was held on September 26 at Chesterfield FC’s splendid SMH Group Stadium and was very well attended. Around 300 people attended to see displays by 37 groups and share the anniversary cake.

Chair Roger Watts spoke about the group’s history and today’s challenges. The Mayor of Chesterfield, Coun Jenny Flood, who visited with Mayoress Heather Hopkinson, stressed the importance of Chesterfield u3a for people no longer in full-time employment and also the general community. She also expressed interest in joining the u3a when

her term of office ends. John Lewis, regional trustee, gave the national perspective.

There were excellent performances from musical and dancing groups, and visitors could see displays and talk to members, “try it yourself” opportunities from board games and ukulele, and creative work including handicraft, painting and drawing, flower arranging and patchwork. Spacecraft and rocket models drew many to the Astronomy table and there were slide shows and videos from German, Photography and Walking groups. Overall, the group had about 30 membership enquiries and hope many will decide to join the group on a permanent basis. If anyone else is considering joining, further details on the website https://chesterfield.u3asite.uk/

Memories of the Miners’ Camp

FANCY a trip down memory lane, equipped with a knotted hanky?

Local historian Ivan Brentnall is set to provide a light-hearted history of Skegness’s legendary Miners’ Camp.

The ‘Miners’ Camp Holiday Special’ event recalls the holiday scheme initiated by the Derbyshire Miners’ Association in 1938. This visionary project led to the creation of the first UK holiday centre of its kind in Skegness, designed for the miners of Derbyshire and their families.

The Derbyshire Miners’ Welfare Holiday Centre was built with financial grants from the Miners’ Welfare Fund and colliery owners. It opened in May 1939, and was the first of its kind in the country. The centre could accommodate almost 1,000 visitors per week in wooden chalets, and was available to approximately 40,000 miners then employed in Derbyshire collieries. It also provided meals and entertainment.

Event organiser Richard Godley says: “Come armed with your knotted hanky and memories of this amazing institution!”

The free event takes place at The Hub, Gladstone Buildings, Broadleys, Clay Cross on Tuesday, November 12 between 11am and 2pm, with a talk by Ivan Brentnall at 11.30am. A light lunch/refreshments will be available free of charge.

Below: The swimming pool at the Derbyshire Miners’ Centre at Skegness.

Above: lan Edmundson( left) and John Longstaff, the Chesterfield ExSpires players in England’s Over-75’s World Cup winners, with their ‘gold’ medals.

Above: The Dog Walking group at the event included one canine member!

The Northern Lights – in Derbyshire!

THE Northern Lights were visible to us in Derbyshire on October 10. Reader Brian Smith, of Upper Newbold, went to the Chatsworth Estate with his camera – and he wasn’t disappointed but, he says, “it was very cold as there was a temperature inversion which resulted in freezing fog swirling around. It certainly added to the atmosphere, as did the sound of bellowing from a couple of nearby stags!”

And reader Peter Wigglesworth, of Matlock, took his camera outside to capture the undoubted beauty of the aurora.

‘Pommie Pilgrims’ close in on target

THE people of Youlgrave – dubbed the ‘Pommie Pilgrims’ – have been raising money to install kitchen facilities and loos in the village’s Grade I-listed All Saints’ Church.

A group of them walked to Derby Cathedral on Palm Sunday, March 24 – and their target is to have reached all 42 English cathedrals by All Saints’ Day, November 1. By the end of September, 37 cathedrals had been reached with 174 people clocking up a massive 3,720 miles, raising well over £33,000. Among them was Billy, aged 16, who walked over 60 miles along Hadrian’s

wall from Carlisle to Newcastle; and Harriet, who walked and camped solo 125 miles from Exeter to Truro; and 87-year-old Barbara Scrivener, who is walking a mile a day around the village to tot up 42 miles.

To donate, head to JustGiving and look for Pommie Pilgrimage 2024.

Fifty years ago…

THE straightening of the A632 Matlock to Chesterfield road at Slack Hill, Ashover, was completed 50 years ago.

Previously, the 115metre-drop had a couple of turns in it, but Derbyshire County Council decided to straighten it and engaged Tarmac on the project, which started in 1973.

On one of the twists in the road was the Lord Nelson pub (inset) –now demolished – at the junction of Slack Hill at Overton Coach Road.

£1-million Premium Bonds jackpot…

ONE Derbyshire resident won the £1-million Premium Bonds jackpot prize in October, according to data from National Savings & Investment.

As well as the jackpot, one person from Derbyshire won £50,000, six people won £25,000 and 13 residents won £10,000.

Fancy morris dancing?

WINSTER Morris Dancers have enjoyed a busy dance schedule in 2024. January started with a taster session, which brought three new members, giving a great boost to the team’s dancing this year.

You get to keep fit, find friendship, have a great time socially, and do some wider travel, including to Europe. If you are thinking about joining as a musician, you will be very welcome. It’s one of the best bands of folk musicians of any morris team in the UK. Since becoming a mixed side in 2016, it has been clear that this sort of dance appeals to couples, and several have joined the team as musicians as well as dancers.

Performances, or ‘dancing out’, happen mostly between May and September. In the main that’s around Derbyshire, but there can be invitations further afield. There are link-ups with folk dancing groups in France, Germany and Italy as well. Coincidentally, all three of those are in areas that produce some excellent wines!

The group is already planning its programme for next year, which will include a visit to the Pfalz region of Germany, where our hosts will be the Trachten Gruppe Ungstein.

If you are interested, contact Richard Powley on 01629 6369943, Bev Atkins on 01629 650086, Richard Bryant on 01629 55594 or any other member you know. Taster sessions last about half an hour and are at the Burton Institute, West Bank, Winster DE4 2DQ on Tuesday evenings at 8 o’clock. There are normal team practices on 12th, 19th and 26th November, then on 3rd December. All of these offer further (free) chances for anyone who’d like to try some morris dancing.

Thomas Linacre remembered…

AT Old Brampton Church on October 20 was a service marking the 500th anniversary of Thomas Linacre, the local man who had an Oxford College named after him.

He was a humanist scholar, Catholic priest and physician to King Henry VIII, and founded the College of Physicians.

Above: The Winster Morris Dancers in action.

Picture by Brian Smith.

Picture by Peter Wigglesworth.

THE QUIET STRENGTH OF THE WOMEN OF EYAM

After launching a business in Eyam, Anne Hyde was moved by the fortitude shown by village women from the time of plague through to the present day. Fiona Stubbs finds out more.

THE heart-wrenching image of a grieving woman, dragging the body of a family member to their grave personifies the horror of plague in 17th century Eyam. Elizabeth Hancock buried her husband and six of her seven children in just eight days as, in 1665, bubonic plague swept through the Derbyshire village,

claiming the lives of 260 people.

It’s a story that still shocks, saddens and intrigues visitors to the Peak District as they discover the loss and self-sacrifice experienced by inhabitants of the ‘plague village’.

The image of Elizabeth Hancock struck a chord with Anne Hyde when she opened her business Delightful Living – selling gifts and accessories – in Eyam with her partner, Paul. However, for Anne, it symbolised not only tragedy… but incredible strength. As time went on, she realised how strong women have played a role in Eyam for centuries – and continue to do so.

Anne says: “Since opening our shop, I’ve learned more and more about the women who keep the wheels of Eyam turning. Chatting to people every day, we hear some remarkable stories about the reasons people come to the village. Many come for the plague story – more relevant than ever these days because of Covid-19 and lockdown. But a lot visit for other reasons, and many of those have women behind them.

“On the front of a leaflet for Eyam Museum is the iconic image of Elizabeth Hancock dragging a body across the fields. It’s a dramatic image – and it makes me wonder if she was the first ‘strong woman’ of Eyam.

“There’s an amazing community here and women seem to be at the core. Nobody is interested in taking the limelight, they just get their heads down and get on with it. A lot goes on in this little village, and the majority is led by women.”

Anne’s own business has grown over several years since she started making hand painted wooden signs from her kitchen table in 2008. Joined by her partner, Paul, the couple design and make

Anne Hyde. Picture by Helen Rowan.

Elizabeth Hancock, who buried her husband and six of her seven children in eight days in 1665.

a range of personalised gifts that are sold online and in 2023 opened their lifestyle store in The Courtyard Barn at Eyam Hall Courtyard. Earlier this year, Delightful Living was named regional Best Lifestyle Store in the Muddy Stiletto Awards.

Anne adds: “As well as women running businesses, there are lots of women who organise community events including litter picks, the well dressings each year, churchyard tidyups, fundraisers in the church and all sorts of things. While men pay an equally vital role in the community, as a woman it’s the stories of the women of Eyam that have resonated with me.

“When I look at the image of Elizabeth Hancock on that museum leaflet it really strikes a chord for me about the quiet strength and determination of a lot of the women here.”

Editor’s Note: Find out more about Anne’s business at www. delightfulliving.co.uk

SOME OF EYAM’S LEADING LADIES…

Hannah Bennett

Hannah is a sculptor, specialising in ceramic stoneware pieces, inspired by nature and designed for the outdoors.

Her Sculpture Gardens at her converted barn home in Eyam are open to visitors, by appointment, during the summer.

Hannah began her career as a baker in Lyon, France, and she went on to create speciality bakes for Harrods and Fortnum & Mason before starting her freelance career in sculpting.

She says: “I had always wanted to build my own house in an old barn and, having previously worked as an apprentice to a builder, this property seemed perfect. I had no idea what a wonderful place Eyam is until I moved here and I have never felt so welcomed and supported. I feel totally connected to the place, the people and the landscape.”

Find out more at www. hannahbennett.co.uk

Stella Kisob

Stella moved to Eyam 17 years ago, launching her restaurant Stella’s Kitchen at the farmhouse home she shares with her husband, ‘local boy’ Patrick Knowles, and their son.

Originally from Cameroon, Stella was inspired to start a restaurant after members of the Eyam church community enjoyed her food at bring-and-share lunches.

She co-founded – and is still part of – a local women’s baking group and recently served as a judge of floats at Eyam carnival.

Stella’s Cameroonian cuisine draws

visitors from far and wide and her restaurant has hosted many celebrities, including the Hairy Bikers and American actor and TV food presenter Adam Richman. She has also appeared in episodes of BBC series Songs of Praise and Escape to the Country.

Stella says: “I love Eyam. I am part of my village community and have fully integrated as a Derbyshire lass.”

Find out more at www. stellas-kitchen.co.uk

Lyndsey Stanton

Lyndsey’s business Hope Valley Honey – which she runs with her husband, Mark – developed during Covid lockdown as the couple reevaluated their time together as a family.

Mark’s family had farmed for four generations and beekeeping had been his long-held dream. Lyndsey says: “We wanted to give a true taste of ‘The Valley’ with full flavoured award-winning honey straight from the hive. I also create beeswax products, including candles and wax melts.

“Our family connections in Eyam go back hundreds of years and having our business here is a real privilege.

“For the women of Eyam, there is so much support and encouragement. Lots of talented businesswomen come together and celebrate each other.”

Find out more at www.

hopevalleyhoney.co.uk

Hannah Bennett hard at work on a new sculpture.

Stella Kisob.

Rachel Smith

After a 26-year career in corporate banking, Rachel now runs two successful holiday accommodations – a grade II-listed stone cottage and a traditional shepherd’s hut – in Eyam.

Rachel – who has lived in the village for 25 years – supports local makers by organising the annual week-long Eyam Makers Market – which this year runs from November 16. It is held in Eyam’s old market hall where, traditionally, farmers’ wives would sell eggs, butter, cheese and poultry on market days. Rachel also contributes to the merchandise – making knitted blankets and hats and garlands.

She says: “I like to promote the goodness of the village with its strong community. It’s important to support local businesses and people. Championing each other allows us all to believe that anyone can follow their dreams.”

Find out more at www.thehuteyam. co.uk and www.thecottageeyam.co.uk

Lynn Jackson

Since moving to Eyam 45 years ago, Lynn has been devoted to village life. She became the wife of the village GP, Peter Jackson, raising his two boys from the ages of nine and 11. For 30 years, she ran the annual Village Show and became involved in the luncheon club, organising transport for elderly people and ultimately raising funds for a mini bus. This led to the creation of Bakewell and Eyam Community transport, which now has a fleet of 20 accessible buses. Over the

course of 30 years, she served in various roles – from driver to president.

Lynn has a long involvement with the village pantomime. She is a member of a pop up choir and the All and Sundry band and takes part in the drama for the Plague Service in the Delph. Church duties include roles as churchwarden and bellringing for services and weddings and she is a chief clay puddler and petaller for wells dressings.

A tireless fundraiser for charities, Lynn was awarded the title “Beacon of Hope” for Derbyshire in recognition of her work during Covid.

Lynn says: “Eyam is an awesome village. I believe “community” has been in our DNA since plague times and, thank goodness, shows no sign of disappearing any time soon. Bringing up two young boys when I was only young myself was quite a challenge but there was always help, love, advice and plenty of support, for which I am eternally grateful.”

Clare Hepworth

Having started her events career running Wimbledon and Chelsea Flower show, Clare organises Eyam’s unique bonfire night celebration and is known locally as ‘Bonfire Clare’. Remembering the source of the Eyam plague, schoolchildren weave a huge rat out of willow, filled with fairy lights and wrapped in tissue paper. The rat leads the torch-lit, music-led procession through the village to be placed on the oversized bonfire. The event raises invaluable funds for the school and community, last year topping £16,500.

Rachel Smith outside the shepherd’s hut, one of her holiday lets. Picture by Helen Rowan.

Lynn Jackson raising funds for the charity Shelterbox.

A rat made by Eyam schoolchildren leads the procession on Bonfire Night, organised by Clare.

From the Diddymen to Nozee Parkers!

The fascinating world of Kevin Lavender: Cartoonist, Illustrator, Graphic Designer, Painter, and Children’s Author

HAVING attended Chesterfield College of Art on a 4-year graphic design course in the mid-to-late-60s, Kevin Lavender’s captivating life story has taken him along many interesting pathways.

In 1970, he attained Licentiate membership of the Society of Industrial Artists and Designers (LSIAD). Ten years later, he gained full membership of the Chartered Society of Designers (MCSD) and about a decade further down the line, he became a member of their panel of assessors for new intake in the East Midlands.

Not shy at putting his drawings and paintings before the public eye, Kevin entered many a competition and attended a whole host of exhibitions.

In 1971, he entered a pen and wash painting of Chesterfield Town Centre in the Derbyshire Arts and Music Festival and was awarded the Representational Trophy. During the 70s, he held 3 one-man

exhibitions of his work at Derby Museum and Art Gallery, Derby Playhouse (now the Derby Theatre) and the Civic Theatre, Chesterfield.

In 1977, he was the successful winner of the first prize of £400 in a national design competition to create a playing card to commemorate the Queen’s Silver Jubilee.

As far as full-time work was concerned, Kevin was employed as a graphic designer for a Courtaulds subsiduary firm in Langley Mill, before he was made redundant in 1995. They say necessity is the mother of invention. And so, after redundancy, Kevin began cartoon drawing – doing illustrations for a national joke firm based in Bristol and creating illustrations for their mail order catalogues. Such were the calibre of these drawings, that they have now become collectors’ items!

Running parallel to this, and having completed a teaching course, he took art classes for Derbyshire County Council and Derbyshire City Council for 17 years – clocking up more than 2,000 classes until retirement in 2014. Sharing his knowledge and expertise with others provided him with the utmost satisfaction.

Kevin also began publishing a ‘mini’ magazine called ’The Villager’ for his local village and the surrounding area. This ran for 18 years until his retirement.

Around this time, he was watching the lunchtime programme Pebble Mill at One with Ken Dodd as the guest. Being a great fan of his since childhood, he decided to do a watercolour painting of him. By quirk of fate, Ken was appearing at the Derby Assembly Rooms on Boxing Day with a matinee and evening performance. Kevin did no more than

take the painting on the unlikely chance of seeing him between shows. Ken really liked it and asked Kevin to sign it for him. He then asked if he did cartoon drawing as he was thinking about a new look for his Diddymen. Kevin told him that he did. He then said a rather strange, yet endearing, thing, “You and I were meant to meet”.

Following this chance meeting, Kevin worked on Ken’s projects until his passing in 2018, not only with the Diddymen, but also designing his ‘Another Audience With Ken Dodd’ DVD cover for Universal.

Having enjoyed working with Ken and his ‘Diddymen’, Kevin decided to create his own characters that he could become attached to. After much consideration, the idea came to mind: ‘What do children find amusing and parents find revolting?” Top of his list was their fascination for ‘bogees’. Kevin then wondered what it would be like if they had their own communities, how they are formed, how they go about their daily business, and what appropriate (nasal associated) names they could be called.

Over the past 3 or 4 years, Kevin has lived and breathed ‘Bogees’ (literally sometimes). They all have their own personalities – which he knows inside out! This fascination led naturally to the writing and illustrating of two books ‘Nozee Parkers’ and ‘Santa Bogee’, which are available from: www.bannisterpublications. com or Amazon. Both books (‘the bogee bundle’) are available at the special price of £9.99

Chatsworth Players final show of 2024

New MP meets station volunteers

AT a recent visit to Dronfield Station, newly-elected MP for Derbyshire North East, Labour’s Louise Jones, met some of the volunteers from Friends of Dronfield Station (FoDS) and learnt about the work to maintain and improve rail services to the town.

Since 2006, when the station was underused and threatened with closure, FoDS has been successful in persuading the railway companies to run an hourly service, north and south from Dronfield.

FoDS has also created an awardwinning garden adjacent to the station.

Ms Jones said: “It was a pleasure to meet the FoDS volunteers, who give their time to maintain the station and make it a welcoming gateway to the town. Thanks to them, Dronfield now has regular train services to Sheffield, Chesterfield and beyond.”

A classic car tour…

A CLASSIC car tour of the Peak District has clocked up nearly £800 for Prostate Cancer UK.

Organised by Great British Car Journey, members of the Ambergate museum’s own car club took to the roads in 40 classic cars for the Perfect Peaks Tour.

Members donated a total of £767 to the national cancer charity.

Richard Usher, founder of the museum and prostate cancer survivor, organised and led the charity drive on a 90-mile road trip. Cars taking part included a 1926 Morris Cowley and a 1934 Austin 10.

To become a member, visit www.greatbritishcarjourney. com/great-british-car-club/

CHATSWORTH Players are branching out with their autumn production this year. With professional director Maggie Ford at the helm, they will be performing Timberlake Wertenbaker’s award-winning comedy/drama Our Country’s Good.

A slight departure from the group’s usual classic texts, it was written in the 1980s, based on the novel the Playmaker by Thomas Keneally. Set in the late 1700s, in the yet-to-be-named Australia, this gritty comedy-drama follows the officers and convicts in the first penal colony. When one of the officers makes a request to put on a play using the convicts as actors, it creates turmoil amongst the rest of the officers.

But the play transforms both the officers and convicts in unexpected and often hilarious ways. Women, in particular, from desperately impoverished backgrounds and battling with a brutal convict regime, find their voices and self-esteem through performing in the play. The characters in the play are all based on real people, who recorded these events, maybe not exactly as they will be portrayed, but certainly close enough to make the point – can theatre be a rehabilitative force?

Chatsworth Players will be raising money for a charity that relates to the themes of the play. This year they are supporting Rideout, Creative Arts for Rehabilitation. The organisation aims to develop innovative, arts-based approaches to working with prisoners and staff within UK prisons. All monies from programme sales and the bar will be donated to Rideout, and there will be collecting tins at the performances.

In a break with tradition, Chatsworth Players will not be performing in the theatre at Chatsworth House but will take the show to the Medway Centre in Bakewell and Wirksworth Town Hall. As Our Country’s Good is also on the A-Level syllabus, they are also offering a student ticket price for the first time. It has an age advisory of 16+ and is running on the following dates and times: November 15/16/17 (Friday/Saturday/ Sunday) at 7.30pm at the Medway Centre, Bakewell; November 21/22/23 (Thursday/ Friday/Saturday) at 7.30pm at Wirksworth Town Hall. Tickets are £15, and £12.50 for students (limited number and only available for Medway Centre performances), available from www.chatsworthplayers.com

Coworking space an award winner

IT began as a community coworking space, promising company, conversation and support after the restrictions of Covid-19 lockdown and changes to office culture.

Three years on, Coworking Corner in Bank Road, Matlock, is an award-winning community of creatives and professionals.

The town’s first and only coworking space, it has this year tasted success in the SME News East Midlands Enterprise Awards and the Independent Business Awards run by digital magazine The Business Concept. It was also named Coworking Space of the Year – UK in the Corporate Global Livewire Global Awards.

Founder Jen Lowthrop is proud of the community she has built – including small business owners, freelancers, entrepreneurs and ‘digital nomads’ – in her hometown.

Jen says: “I created Coworking Corner because I got lonely working in my bedroom after my freelance work went largely online during Covid. I wanted to meet like-minded people and create a friendly space where people could make new friends and have fun in a productive work space.”

Jen offers home-baked cookies, tea, coffee and other snacks for co-workers, alongside speedy wifi, large desks, comfy chairs and a private space for meetings and calls. Find out more at https://coworkingcorner.co

Above: North East Derbyshire MP Louise Jones meets Friends of Dronfield Station volunteers at the station.

Above: One of the rooms at Coworking Corner in Matlock.

Winter style all wrapped up

The star piece in your style arsenal, your winter coat is a true wardrobe staple which is worth a little investment, says Amy Norbury.

THE temperature outside has noticeably dropped, the nights are drawing in – and this is your sign, should you need it, to up your outerwear game for the season ahead.

A winter coat is the cornerstone of any wardrobe, a hero piece which will pay for itself time and again throughout the chillier months. Combining style and practicality, your winter coat is the one item you’ll reach for on a daily basis; after all, the right coat will see you bracing the sub-zero temperatures with confidence as the focal point of your outfit. Choose wisely and your pick will see you right through to spring and beyond for years to come.

As such, think about your winter coat as an investment piece – with so much usage potential, it’s often something worth splurging a little more. But if you’re going to splash the cash on a single item, it’s got to fit the bill; a coat which will pair with the majority of outfits in your wardrobe, while striking the right balance between dressed-up and casual cool. And, let’s face it, for much of the winter your outfits are buried beneath your coat so it’s essential you choose one you truly love.

While it isn’t necessary to replace your winter coat annually, if your outdoor threads

1. Per Una borg faux shearling aviator jacket, £89, Marks and Spencer. www.marksandspencer.co

2. Copper & Black Maggie short teddy coat, £110, FatFace. 3. Faux fur cocoon coat, £179, John Lewis. www.johnlewis.com

are looking a little, well, threadbare this year, there are some great pieces out there to help you freshen things up.

Happily, this winter timeless silhouettes and classic styles reign supreme. Elegant wool coats in neutral hues, retro bomber jackets, practical puffer coats and the classic black coat are eternally popular picks – and there’s plenty of choice on the catwalks and high streets.

Leather bombers dominated the runway at Balenciaga, while Ferragamo offered up some showstopping wool coats – but if your budget is on the more affordable side, there are some great high street brands offering beautiful quality at a fraction of those designer prices.

From heritage check wool to winterproof padded styles in elegant hues of olive green, camel and cream, luscious leathers to cosy shearling, it’s a veritable feast

of classic style. Try a selection of silhouettes to see what works best for your wardrobe, styling your picks with a range of your existing pieces. And if all else fails, a black longline wool coat is the ultimate outerwear pick - a chic companion for every winter outing which will look great every time

4. Mimi longline trench coat, £150, Monsoon. www.monsoon.co.uk

5. Anyday white long coat, £89, John Lewis.

6. Heritage coat, £109, Marks and Spencer.

7. Mimi longline trench coat, £150, Monsoon. www.monsoon.co.uk

Magical Christmas Delights

‘Tis

TDUNSTON HALL ESTATE

HE bespoke Christmas area is magical and mystical, opening into a colourful winter wonderland with Christmas trees, lights and decorations everywhere.

The carefully curated selection of Christmas essentials is sure to inspire and delight. Whether you’re searching for twinkling lights, elegant baubles, gorgeous garlands, charming wreaths, or luxurious crackers, the collection is designed with meticulous attention to detail and a touch of festive magic.

The diverse range of Christmas products are innovative, contemporary and unique. They strive to delight, surprise and inspire. There’s everything from advent calendars, shortbread tins, chocolate selection boxes, cookie tubs and artisan coffee, to wrapping paper, cards, ornaments, festive figures, acrylics, tree decorations, story books, and cards. Beers, vodkas, gins, whiskies – often locally sourced – also have pride of place on the beautifully presented shelves.

CHRISTMAS TREES

Nothing says Christmas more than the fresh aroma and fragrance of a real, recently harvested Christmas tree. The

majestic Nordman Fir captures the essence of a timeless Christmas. With its glossy, dark green needles and excellent needle retention, it’s a popular option for those seeking a tree that stays lush and vibrant throughout the season. Available in sizes between 4ft and 8ft and everything in between, real Christmas trees are available from early November onwards.

Potted Christmas trees are an eco-friendly choice and reduce the impact on deforestation. Available from the end of October, they are reuseable year after year and offer opportunity to plant and grow.

Dunston Hall has also got you covered if you prefer an artificial tree. Artificial trees can be used over and over again. From dark green and very real looking to white, lights already on the tree, to twig trees, the choice is seemingly endless. And there are no needles to pick up afterwards!

SANTA’S GROTTO: A MAGICAL ENCOUNTER WITH FATHER CHRISTMAS

For a truly enchanting experience, make sure to visit Santa’s Grotto. Children can step into a world of magic and wonder as they meet Father Christmas himself. They can

share a special moment with him and capture memories with plenty of photo opportunities. As a token of festive joy, each child will receive a delightful gift to take home, creating cherished memories that last a lifetime.

GIFT CARDS AND LOYALTY CARDS

Gift Cards, which can be spent anywhere on the Dunston Hall Estate make for an ideal festive gift. Between 1st November and Christmas Eve, gift cards can be purchased with 10% discount. Loyalty Cards reward customers with every single purchase the make.

GIFTS AND CHRISTMAS FARE FROM THE FOOD HALL/DELI

The Food Hall/Deli is home to an eclectic selection of locally sourced artisanal products from known provenance, as well as authentic and unique delicacies from Spain, Italy, and all over the world.

Organic fruit, charcuterie, locally-reared meats, fish, a whole host of pastas, olives, jalapenos, pickled garlic, chorizo, chocolates, biscuits, cakes, parmesan, salamis, coffees, and a whole host of tantalising cheeses sit perfectly alongside champagne, drinks offerings

from local brewers and distillers, and English sparkling wines.

CHRISTMAS HAMPERS

Filled with festive delights, the luxury Christmas hampers will entice the senses and tingle the taste buds. Each hamper features an array of delectable food and drink made from the finest ingredients, all presented in a traditional wicker basket.

FESTIVE GARDENING GIFTS FROM THE GARDEN CENTRE

Within the garden centre itself, you’ll find an enchanting display of horticultural plants – probably the largest selection you’ll see anywhere locally. Beyond horticultural plants of every description imaginable, there’s vegetable plants and seeds, trees, compost, pots, tools, furniture, and garden accessories of all types known to mankind.

Integrity: The key to lasting success

Chesterfield-based Holywell Carpets believe that honesty and trust are integral to meeting and exceeding customers’ expectations.

AS can usually be expected from a long-established family business, Holywell Carpets has stood the test of time through displaying the hallmarks of unparalleled customer service, uncompromising integrity, and unswerving reliability. Brothers Reg and Steve Hinde took over Holywell Carpets in 1989. Steve now manages the business in conjunction with long-standing and loyal employee, Martin Howroyd. Together, Steve and Martin have been working together at this highly reputable carpet company for 33 years. Previously, Steve had worked elsewhere in the carpet trade in a fitting capacity for ten years. Martin was at the company three years before Steve’s arrival. It’s fair to say that they know the business inside out. And they have done the hard yards! Both are

trained fitters and have many years fitting experience between them, Steve was ‘on the tools’ for 20 years and Martin 25 years.

Traditional values

Steve is proud of the old-fashioned values which have underpinned the success of Holywell Carpets. “If I wouldn’t have a particular carpet in my home, I won’t put it in yours,” said Steve. “Martin and I always tell customers the truth. Our business is based on a high moral code and honesty and truthfulness are at the very core of this.”

Carpet Foundation Membership

The Carpet Foundation is the UK carpet industry’s lead body. As a member of the

Carpet Foundation, Holywell Carpets is bound by a Code of Practice approved by the Chartered Trading Standards Institute. The Code gives customers peace of mind that they are dealing with people they can trust. Carpet Foundation retailers are audited annually by the TSI to ensure compliance.

These are the benefits of buying from a Carpet Foundation retail member:

• Written quotations

• Deposit safeguards

• Written terms of business

• Impartial professional advice

• Free extended guarantees

• A free installation guarantee

• After sales procedures

Better Prices through Associated Carpet Group Membership (ACG)

With over 320 members, ACG is a national buying group dedicated to supporting independent flooring retailers. With a massively increased buying power, the ACG can secure the best trading terms with the best selection of flooring suppliers. This means that carpet retailers like Holywell

Carpets can pass on the savings to customers, making their prices much more competitive. ACG membership has a good number of benefits for Holywell Carpets, including enabling them to trade on equal or better terms than members of other groups or multiple outlets.

Derbyshire Trusted Trader Membership

Being a Derbyshire Trusted Trader tells customers that they are dealing with a fair and reliable business, which follows a code of practice. The scheme also establishes a vetting procedure and a framework for stringent quality standards.

Premium quality carpets and flooring from all the

leading

manufacturers

Whilst catering for a wide range of tastes, preferences, and budgets, Holywell Carpets uses most of the highest-quality suppliers of carpets and flooring.

When it comes to carpet displays in the showroom, Cavalier, Adam, Westex, Ulster, Abingdon, Penthouse, Cormar, Whitestone Weavers, Hugh Mackay, and Brockway are all well represented.

Steve is keen to point out that there are quality ranges for each of these suppliers. “I can show customers the difference in quality even within the Ulster range,” said Steve. “The key measurements they need to know to assess a carpet’s durability are its density, that is how closely knitted together its fibres are, and its pile height. In general, short, dense, heavy carpets

are more durable and hard-wearing than those with loose, shaggy fibres.

LVT flooring is ever more popular these days and Holywell Carpets has certainly got this covered. With premium brands like Camaro and Distinctive, backed up with vastly experienced and highly knowledgeable fitters, customers can rely on an immaculate finish to their superb new floor.

Holywell Carpets also stocks and fits quality ranges of vinyls, laminates, and carpet tiles.

11 widths of carpets – how to save money and avoid waste

Measuring floor space and estimating the amount of flooring or carpet needed is a skill. “Customers should never really buy a carpet until a room has been professionally measured,” said Steve. “We can save customers hundreds of pounds by using carpets which come in smaller width sizes. With eleven widths of carpets now available, choosing the most cost-effective width option can make a whole load of difference. Selecting the optimum width of carpet available in a given carpet range can minimise waste and save a small fortune!”

Giving genuine, objective, and honest advice is at the heart of everything they do at Holywell Carpets. “If we can save our customers some of their hardearned cash, we’ll do it,” said Steve. “With our price quotations, we also include the often-hidden extras. With us, underlay, grippers, doorplates, and fitting is always included in the cost.”

Customer reviews and feedback speak volumes

Here is a recent glowing review on Google: Jacqueline Roberts 3 months ago

Great service from Steve at Holywell Carpets. Friendly and helpful – from coming out to measure, ordering and keeping us informed of progress. Fitted at a date and time to suit us by a very efficient and friendly fitter. Highly recommend to all and would definitely use again.

If an honest, reliable, and courteous service is what you’re after, 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

Embrace the Elegance and... LET THE LIGHT FLOOD IN!

New State-of-the-Art Glass Conservatory Roofs by HeatGuard

THE charm of a glass conservatory roof is not simply aesthetic – it’s also about the sense of openness it brings to your living space. The sprawling canvas of the sky above, viewable in all its glory, can be a priceless addition to your home.  Beyond the visual appeal, there are many other advantages of glass conservatory roofs, including year-round comfort, self-cleaning properties, reduction in energy bills and beautiful visual options to suit any property style.

Energy-efficient Solar Control Glass Conservatory Roofs

Recent significant technological advancements and improvements in the quality of glass conservatory roofs has resulted in a vast increase in energy efficiency. Modern thermally efficient glass significantly reduces heat loss during cooler months while deflecting the sun’s heat in the summer. Consequently, this provides an evenly tempered space throughout the year, lower energy bills due to reduced need for artificial heating and cooling, and a greener, more sustainable living solution.

Self-cleaning Properties

The self-cleaning products have been certified to EN 1096-5, the new European Standard for self-cleaning glass. Maintaining the pristine appearance of your roof has never been easier.

Longevity and Easy Maintenance

Despite their ethereal appearance, glass conservatory roofs are remarkably resilient. They are built to withstand harsh weather conditions, from heavy rain to snowstorms.

Maximising Light and Space

An integral benefit of a glass conservatory roof is the unparalleled influx of natural light it provides. Not only does this brighten up your space, but studies have also shown that exposure to natural light can improve mood and productivity. More so, the illusion of space that these roofs provide can drastically enhance the ambiance of your interior.

Glare Reduction

The Sunshade Blue is the best performing blue, solar controlled glass to date with fantastic solar and heat reflection properties of up to 82%. It also provides increased glare reduction.

Unrestricted Views and Stargazing Opportunities

One of the unique pleasures of a glass conservatory roof is the opportunity to stargaze without braving the elements. Similarly, during the day, you can enjoy panoramic views of your garden or the passing clouds.

1 Gets to the surface in a soapy way? (7,2)

1 Blesses a mess, without any foundation whatsoever (8)

7 What the bread board ‘needs’ to be first? (7)

4 Making a contour dip unpredictably (10)

13 Impulsive, foolish bits of bacon? (7)

18 One to go into orbit when conned by the latest lie (9)

5 Webmaster, advertising the doctor’s club (3) 6 Understand something of the greenhouse effect (3)

Footie Campbell isa Roman sun-god? (3)

Pier got damaged when one went on it to feel good (3,4)

Walloped the leaders, hitherto (3)

Are these characters at odds for the day? (3)

5 Bruises too badly to be just being rowdy (10)

9 Put it another way, you could share, as per arranged (2-6)

17 A bit of bad behaviour in the singing? (3)

2 Complaint of the bully follower (4)

3 Beige cure (but it’s so crude!) (4)

8 In time to come, being incredibly alert (5)

14 Sort of page that’s a heart location, so they say (4)

15 Woe is me! (At the halfway house) (4)

Prize Crossword

ACROSS

2 It’s a block, to the power of three? (4)

6 Ostentation the nation could do without in a fight (3-2)

7 See 26a. (7)

9 It’s mine to tip back! (3)

10 Abraham, bleating for a bit of a stroll (5)

11 Mis-state the flavour (5)

12 Beer said to make you be sick? (3)

13 Endorse the planning application near Chatsworth (7)

15 Not put back South of Chesterfield? (6)

19 Son, drunk on pale ale, led to Dovedale village (5-2-2-4)

22 Barmy, therefore in bother round here (6)

23 Lad rang about the day of the King in Castleton (7)

26 And 7a. Dawdling round to the pub in Leek for a local delicacy (8)

28 Keen to disagree (5)

30 Bath leaps about in the end (3)

31 Bull lay uncomfortably at cradle song (7)

32 Leotard you get from being late (5)

33 Legend of a stormy theme (4) DOWN

1 Bust the silly counterfoil! (4)

2 Managers of our wall tops? (6)

3 Ripley village that circulates, ‘Letter to buy’? (9)

4 The last to acknowledge an outer limit (4)

5 Prima donna coming up greedy! (4)

6 And 7d. Ask about aspens on a 57 type of road? (5)

7 See 6d. (4)

8 Angela’s mad to get the lead (6)

14 Do not ask to start with personal coding (3)

16 Odd-natured hen appears below (10)

17 A lust that’s out of order in Oklahoma (5)

18 Iris, a force to be reckoned with, W of Sheldon! (5)

20 Dale referred to in wild hill talk (8)

21 The heart of a modern poetry piece (3)

22 She’s the one to blame, as it turns out (5)

24 City that could be dry? (5)

25 Dramatic piece of ground for tots? (4)

27A new recipe to bring to solid food (4)

29 Anger management to provide idea for later work (4)

30 Lasso you can fashion out of a bean (3)

Name:

We will give a prize of £25 to a randomly-drawn correctly completed crossword. Cut out the completed puzzle and send by November 11th, 2024, to: Bannister Publications Limited, Office 2A Market Hall, Market Hall, Chesterfield, Derbyshire, S40 1AR. The solutions for the October 2024 crossword can be found on page 98 of this issue.

Crossword by Prof Rebus

LEE’S PHOTOGRAPHS are simply superb!

LEE Howdle, (37), is a stunning photographer –but he now has a nine-month-old baby Minnie Mae to look after along with his partner Natalie at their Radcliffe on Trent home, writes Barrie Farnsworth.

He also works as a Tesco store manager in Mansfield – but he hops off to the Peak District whenever he can to take photographs.

He took up photography about seven years ago, going to places like Wollaton Hall and Bradgate Park to take pictures of stags, as he was particularly interested in wildlife shots.

But a trip to Bakewell turned his interest around, as he explains: “I popped into the Peak District Visitor Centre four or five years ago, and there was a gallery of some stunning  landscapes. I thought to myself, these are superb – I

want to have a go at this.”

So he’s always checking the weather forecast for his days off – or when he’s not minding the baby – and has been known to get up a 2am to head off to Peakland. But as these pictures show, it is more than worth the effort, Lee!

Editor’s Note: You can check out more of Lee’s pictures on instagram leehowdle and his website: www. leehowdlephotography.co.uk

Lovely reflections on Ladybower Reservoir. Pictures by Lee Howdle.

A barn and tree near Monyash.

Lee Howdle with Minnie-mae.

The sun comes up over a cloud inversion in the Hope Valley and the Vale of Edale, with the picture taken from the Mam Tor end of the Great Ridge.

Abandoned millstones just below Stanage Edge.

Looking down from high above Winnatts Pass as the sun comes up.

The sun sets over Owler Tor.

The sun picks out the ruins of Peveril Castle, above Castleton in cloud and Mam Tor beyond.

Lee stands on Higger Tor to get this stunning sunrise shot.

A rainbow over Chrome Hill.

WASPI WOMEN SHOULDN’T HAVE TO WAIT…

Angela Madden of Wadshelf, is the national chair of Women Against State Pension Inequality (WASPI). She reports on how the campaign is going since the new Labour Government was elected.

FIRST, a quick recap as to what the WASPI campaign is about.

Women born in the 1950s, who started working way back in the late 1960s/early 70s, always expected their State Pension to kick in on their 60th birthday, as it had for women since 1947. However, in 1995 the then conservative Government decided to equalise the State Pension starting age with men, gradually increasing women’s State Pension age to 65 between 2010 and 2020. The Government said they wanted to give women plenty of notice so that they could plan.

However, The Department of Work and Pensions (DWP) didn’t start informing women until 2009, some 14 years later. In 2010, the then coalition Government decided to increase the State Pension age to 66 for both women and men; this added up to 18 months more onto the State Pension age for the same group of women.

These changes combined saved the government a staggering £181 billion. These savings came straight out of the pockets of WASPI women, who were not informed, and so couldn’t make plans for their retirement.

Once women started getting these letters saying that up to six years had been added to their State Pension age, they thought “How can this be fair. I am only 2 years away from retirement. How can they only tell me now that I have to wait eight years for my State Pension?”

ourselves. Today’s WASPI campaign was registered as a not-for-profit company owned by its members in September 2016.

We took legal advice and started a mass complaints process against the DWP. We sought to prove that the DWP maladministered the communication of the changes to the State Pension age for women, robbing them of the opportunity to plan their retirement properly. If found, the DWP could be ordered to put all women affected “back in the position we would have been in had the maladministration not occurred”.

We had to go through all stages of

the DWP complaints process before our complaints could be looked at by the Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman (PHSO). Finally, in 2018, the PHSO took on our complaints. They selected six sample cases from the many thousands in the process and thoroughly investigated their claims.

In July 2021, they found that the DWP had maladministered the way they communicated the changes. They knew from their own surveys that women didn’t know about the changes, and didn’t do anything differently. This was maladministration.

“These savings came straight out of the pockets of WASPI women.”

It was grossly unfair, and these women started to complain to their MPs, signed a petition and the original WASPI campaign was born in 2015. It didn’t take long to realise that we had a significant fight on our hands if we were to challenge the Government. We needed to raise money, we needed advice from legal experts, we had to organise

After a legal challenge, the Ombudsman finally reported in March 2024 that this maladministration caused injustice, and all WASPI women deserved compensation and an apology.

In May 2024, the Work and Pensions Select Committee invited both the WASPI Campaign and the Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman to a special evidence hearing. The committee found that the Ombudsman’s report didn’t go far enough, and that alongside the injustices found in the six test cases there would be some instances of financial losses. Their findings were delivered to the then Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, Mel Stride. We were on the point of meeting with the DWP when the general election was called.

You may be thinking, well done WASPI – you got the result you wanted – but you would only be half right. Our campaign has been vindicated; all that we complained about to the DWP all those years ago was found to be true. But we are still waiting for the Government to accept the findings of the Ombudsman’s report and carry out their recommendations (apology and compensation for emotional injustice) alongside the additional recommendations from the Work and Pensions Committee (further compensation for those who can prove they suffered material or financial injustice).

Although when in opposition, the Labour Party appeared to be right behind us, with Sir Keir Starmer as leader of the opposition holding the Prime Minister’s feet to the fire and insisting that he paid WASPI women compensation before the summer recess, he doesn’t appear to be in that much of a hurry now that he has the power.

I, the North Derbyshire chair of WASPI, and my colleagues met with Emma Reynolds (the new Pensions Minister) on September 7. The meeting was very cordial, and Emma was definitely listening, but no promises were made and we are still waiting. We haven’t even got a timetable from them to let us know when they will start looking at how a compensation scheme might work.

Admittedly, Emma has only been in the job since July, but her peers were in Parliament when the report was laid before them, it is only 100 pages long and has quite clear recommendations. The transcript of the Work and Pensions hearing is even shorter and again has quite clear recommendations. All we can do is keep the pressure up. We have been busy lobbying MPs since the Government convened in July. We have hosted a session for MPs in parliament; we have attended both the Labour and Liberal Democrat conferences; we are meeting with MPs regularly; and we have been working with the major unions and

pensions organisations to get their support. More than half the house have signed up to our aim for ‘Fair and Fast compensation’ for WASPI women. Unite and Unison are actively campaigning on our behalf. What next? We are hosting a demonstration outside parliament on budget day – October 30, from 12 noon until 3pm. We expect many thousands of WASPI women and supporters to join us in demanding that Parliament does what the Ombudsman has recommended and pay us compensation without delay.

Editor’s Note: Find out more about the campaign at wasps.co.uk

Right: A map showing the number of UK MPs who support the WASPI campaign. Left: A poster promoting the Budget Day demonstration outside Parliament.

HATTERSLEY WINES: AWARD-WINNING EXCELLENCE IN BAKEWELL

HATTERSLEY WINES are a local independent wine shop in Bakewell, winner of numerous awards including winners of UK Merchant of the Year (International Wine Challenge) and currently People’s Choice UK’s Favourite Wine Retailer 2024, awards which seek to celebrate the most successful wine businesses, who deliver an exceptional range of wines alongside outstanding, knowledgeable, and friendly service to wine consumers.

The breadth of range offered at Hattersley Wines really does have something for everyone; accessible mixed cases, offering discounts on everyday wines, right across a broad spectrum of countries and regions. Their latest subscription service

takes you on a journey of wine discovery with 6 carefully selected bottles delivered to your door each month. All of this is delivered in a humble and approachable way by the staff, well-armed with great knowledge and information to guide you to the right choice and connecting you with the winemakers and their vineyards.

Established in 2004, as semi-retirement project for John Hattersley and his wife Diane, the business has flourished into an 11 strong team all profiting from strong hospitality backgrounds, not only retailing wines from their shop and online, but supplying numerous restaurants, hotels bars, shops and cafes across the region and beyond.

Be sure to call in over the coming weeks as they gear up for the festive season. The shop will transform into a grotto of the best kind, full of wines, super offers and a fully stocked Enomatic machine offering 8 wines open to taste Mon-Sat.

Milford, Bakewell, Derbyshire, DE45 1DX T: 01629 815255 www.hattersleywines.com

A cauliflower classic…

KELLY Mason is a wellness chef working with groups from private clientele to worldwide health retreats.

In 2017, Kelly trained in raw and plant-based cuisine and nutrition in the USA. Subsequently her style has become heavily influenced by plant-based diets, highly

veg-dense, and whole food cuisine. Kelly has collaborated with a number of five-star awardwinning wellness and health retreats across the world and is also a conscious recipe developer for several transformational superfood and adaptogen brands, including Sun Potion,

LA Cold Pressed, Mason & Co Chocolate and Supernova Living. Kelly has recently worked with the team at Chatsworth Kitchen at Peak Village, Rowsley, to develop a variety of plant-based dishes that showcase locallysourced, seasonal produce. Here is Kelly’s signature dish…

Whole roasted cauliflower with harissa, served with za’atar spiced coconut yoghurt, white quinoa tabbouleh and lemon tahini

ROSE HARISSA

Ingredients

1 heaped tbsp rose harissa

paste (belazu brand)

4 tbsp water

1 tbsp olive oil (odysea brand)

1 tsp maple syrup

Juice 1/2 lemon

Zest 1/2 lemon

Salt to taste (Maldon sea salt flakes)

Method

1. Mix all ingredients together in a bowl. Place aside (in fridge) while making the rest of your dish.

WHITE QUINOA

TABBOULEH

Ingredients

150-200g white quinoa, toasted and cooked (as per instructions)

1/4 cup carrot, julienne

1/4 cup dates, chopped

1/4 cup fresh parsley, roughly chopped

1/4 medium red onion, sliced

1/4 cup pistachios, chopped

Method

1. Fry off all ingredients except millet and fresh parsley. Once slightly charred, mix all ingredients with millet together in a bowl and finally add fresh parsley.

ROASTED CAULIFLOWER

Ingredients

SERVES 2-4

1 medium cauliflower (+ leaves for a zero-waste dish)

2 tbsp olive oil

Sea salt to taste (Maldon sea salt flakes)

Method

1. Heat a pan of salty boiling water and cook cauliflower for 5-10 minutes or until slightly softened.

2. Transfer to a lined baking tray and drizzle the cauliflower with olive oil and salt. Place in oven at 220 degrees for 30-40 minutes or until slightly charred.

LEMON YOGURT

Ingredients

1 cup coconut yogurt (coconut collaborative or cocos organic brand)

2 tsp za’atar spice (Waitrose own)

Juice 1/2 lemons

1/2 tsp lemon zest

Salt to taste (Maldon sea salt flakes)

Method

1. Mixed all ingredients. Store in fridge until ready to plate.

LEMON TAHINI

Ingredients

1/2 cup tahini (belazu brand)

1/2 cup warm water

1 lemon

Zest 1 lemon

1/2 clove garlic

2 tsp maple syrup

Salt to taste (maldon sea salt flakes)

Method

1. Blend until runny and smooth (add more water if required).

PLATE CONSTRUCTION

1. Base: coconut yoghurt, swirl of harissa, drizzle lemon tahini.

2. 1 ladle quinoa

3. 1/4 slice of whole roasted cauliflower

4. Great toppings for this dish… Toasted pine nuts; fresh pomegranate seeds; fresh parsley

Above: The interior of Chatsworth Kitchen at Peak Village, Rowsley.

Kelly Mason.

A real taste of Spain – IN DERBYSHIRE

It may be autumn outside but in a corner of north Derbyshire warm, summery, sunshine flavours are never far away. Fiona Stubbs meets the couple behind Casa Gomez Ltd – creating chorizo and sauces based on traditional Spanish recipes.

FELIX Gomez fondly remembers his childhood in rural Spain… a life of self-sufficiency, where people grew their own food, loading up their mules to exchange produce with other villagers. While families lacked many of the conveniences we now take for granted, food was simple, sustainable – and healthy. Now Felix and his wife Sheila have captured the essence of traditional Spanish cuisine in their business, Casa Gomez Ltd. Specialising in natural homemade

chorizo, Felix now also produces pancetta. Authentic accompaniments include chorizo paste, brava sauce and Spanish pisto and pisto picante – sauces including tomatoes, mixed peppers and onions.

Since launching their business in 2020, Felix and Sheila have built a loyal following, selling online and through markets across Derbyshire and South Yorkshire.

Chorizos and pancettas are handmade, using simple, natural and local ingredients and – like the sauces – are based on

recipes passed down the generations from Felix’s grandmother Gabina, his father Felix and mother Bernarda.

The chorizo is cured in temperaturecontrolled cabinets sourced from northern Spain… a more sophisticated process than of old. Sheila says: “In the past, people in Spain didn’t have fridges and freezers, so curing meat was a way of keeping it safe to eat throughout the year. It was a similar process with the sauces – when there was a glut of tomatoes,

peppers and onions in the summer, they’d make pisto and bottle it. Every single house prepared pisto. It was very organised – they didn’t waste anything.”

Felix adds: “At Christmas and at festival times, we’d bring out all the foods we’d been saving. Tables would be full of chorizo, black puddings, jamon serrano – all produced without freezers. There’d be bread and pisto, locally-made wine and olive oil. It’s important for our health to eat a wide variety of foods and we had plenty of vitamins.”

Felix grew up in a small village near Cuenca in the mountains of east-central Spain. Founded by Moors, Cuenca lies on a limestone spur above the Júcar and Huécar rivers. It is famous for its well-preserved, cantilevered ‘hanging houses’ which appear to cling to the cliffs over the Huécar gorge.

“When Felix was a young child, it was like going back 200 years,” says Sheila. “His family didn’t have a car; they had a mule to take them to the market. They grew everything themselves – they were very self-sufficient.

“Wine was also made in the area by many people – including Felix’s dad. People in another village grew olives and made olive oil. Others produced cereals, cutting their crops by hand. Families used to collect lavender for perfumes and make their own soap, too.

“People would meet up with their mules and exchange goods. I love it when Felix tells me stories about life in the village when he was growing up. It sounds idyllic, but it wasn’t always so. During the Spanish Civil War – quickly followed by the Second World

Opposite left: Felix checks the chorizo in one of the cabinets. Picture by Fiona Stubbs.

Below: Young Felix riding his family’s mule.

War – there wasn’t much food. If people didn’t grow their own, they didn’t eat.”

The couple met in Tenerife in 1983, when Felix was working as a waiter and Sheila was on holiday. “It was a holiday romance,” smiles Sheila. “They said it would never last but I immediately knew I was going to marry him. I was a student nurse and kept going over to see him. After two years, I went to live in Tenerife.”

Sheila’s family lived in Eckington and the couple – who have four grown up children – returned 31 years ago.

Both keen cooks, they launched Casa Gomez Ltd partly as a retirement project for Felix, while Sheila continues to work in the NHS.

Coinciding with the start of the Covid-19 pandemic, it was a difficult beginning and, unable to sell their first batch of chorizos due to lockdown, they donated them to Chesterfield Royal Hospital.

As restrictions eased, however, Casa Gomez grew, with Sheila and Felix adding a specially-built unit in the garden of their Eckington home. Used for chorizo and pancetta production, customers are assured that the meats are free not only of additives, preservatives, gluten and dairy but allergens, too.

Chorizo is produced as closely as possible to traditional principles. The pork is outdoor reared by a local farmer and other ingredients – except paprika – are locally produced. The paprika is sourced from Spain to ensure Casa Gomez chorizo has an authentic, distinct, smoky aroma.

A bay tree outside their house provides bay leaves to use in the sauces throughout

the year and Felix loves to cook with other herbs grown in the garden.

Each month, he produces 72kg of chorizo and 40kg of pancetta. Chorizo is cured for 24 to 26 days and pancetta for 28 days. Felix makes chorizo paste at nearby Moss Valley Meats, while the other sauces are made in Sheffield.

Both Felix and Sheila enjoy sharing their foods and related recipes with customers at markets - and through their Facebook and Instagram accounts. “We love talking to people,” says Sheila. “Our customers regularly post [on social media] how they have used our chorizos and sauces in their own recipes, which is great to see.”

Sheila is vegetarian so doesn’t eat chorizo – but their tried and tested recipes can be easily adapted to be enjoyed by non-meat eaters.

For those who do indulge in this most Spanish of delicacies, there are many ways to enjoy chorizo, says Felix. “Our chorizos are ready to eat – they can be eaten cold with salad in the summer or any time with bread, cheese and wine. In the winter, they add delicious flavour to casseroles and soups.”

Editor’s Note: Learn more at www. chorizocasagomez.com Orders via chorizosgomez@btinternet.com or 07549 034563. Try the flavours of Casa Gomez at Christmas markets, including: 7th December – Wirksworth; 8th December – Nether Edge, Sheffield; 15th December – Pollen Market, Sheffield; 21st December – Bakewell; 22nd December – Cutlery Works, Sheffield.

Above: Felix and Sheila Gomez at their Eckington home. Picture by Fiona Stubbs.

Lentil soup with Casa Gomez chorizos perfect for cold days!

INGREDIENTS

1 jar of Casa Gomez Spanish Pisto

2 handfuls of green lentils (soaked overnight in salted water). Nosoak red lentils also work well

2 large potatoes, peeled and cut into rough cubes

1 sweet potato, peeled and cut into cubes

1 carrot, peeled and grated

2 leaves of basil

Tablespoon of olive oil

Small handful of chopped green beans, spinach or other green vegetables

2 Casa Gomez chorizos, each cut into four pieces

1 litre vegetable stock

Salt and pepper to taste

Make it vegetarian by omitting the chorizo

METHOD

1. In a large pan, warm the olive oil over a medium heat. Add the potatoes and sweet potatoes, then the drained lentils and stir for a few minutes.

2. Add the jar of Spanish Pisto and stir to combine.

3. Add the stock, basil leaves and season to your taste.

4. Turn up the heat until the mixture is bubbling, then add the chopped chorizos.

5. Turn down the heat and leave the soup to simmer for about 40 minutes, or until the lentils and vegetables are soft.

Lentil soup with Casa Gomez chorizo and pisto. Picture by Fiona Stubbs.

Above: Chorizo and pisto... key ingredients of the soup. Picture by Fiona Stubbs.

The value of a cuppa…

IT is hard to imagine modern travel mugs making over £1,000 in 200 years’ time; as the 18th Century Meissen lidded cup and saucer we have pictured did when it made £1,100 in the recent specialist auction.

The Brits have a long tradition of turning to tea for comfort, a custom we have really made our own and as we are having a tea revival, the paraphernalia that goes with tea drinking has become more valuable at auction.

Trembleuse cups and saucers; or as the French call it gobelet et soucoupe enfoncé – sunken cup and saucer – is a drinking cup and saucer, with the saucer given a raised holding area in which the cup sits more securely than in the normal design.

It was designed to enable people with a weak grip or trembling hands to drink a beverage. Trembleuse cups were normally sold singly, rather than in sets. Such saucers had been common in Chinese ceramics for centuries. In Europe they were made in Paris at the Sèvres factory and at Meissen in Germany.

The drinking of exotic imported goods such as tea, coffee and chocolate became increasingly popular with Europe’s elite in the 17th Century. European royalty and nobility were fascinated with the elegance, refinement and ceremony of tea consumption but until the early 18th Century only the Chinese and Japanese exported porcelain that could service this fashion. With the development of porcelain at Meissen and other European factories, new and exciting products became available. as the century developed, the taking of tea developed to a more western taste. Production was aimed only at the wealthiest customers and every piece was finished to the highest possible standard. The ritual of blending and

Below: Meissen porcelain trembleuse two-handled cup and cover, painted with a courting couple and flowers, with a blue crossed swords mark. It was consigned for auction from a large Derbyshire estate; and made £1,100 in a recent specialist auction.

By Vivienne Milburn FRICS Independent Antiques Auctioneer & Valuer

brewing tea meant that there was a demand for porcelain factories to make everything you can think of to enhance the pleasure of drinking tea.

Editor’s Note: Perhaps you also have fine art, antiques and collectables that might be valuable? If so, it is worth getting the advice of an Independent Antiques Valuer to assess them. For further information, please contact

Above: The separate pieces of the Meissen trembleuse cup, saucer and cover.

Vivienne on 07870 238788 or go to www.viviennemilburn. co.uk or email vivienne@ viviennemilburn.co.uk

‘TOP PET’ PHOTO CONTEST

Send a good quality image of your pet to hello@ bannisterpublications.co.uk, along with your pet’s name, your name and address (you must live in Derbyshire) by noon on November 11, 2024.

*Votes by email, online or postcard must be received by no later than December 2, 2024. They will then be counted and the winner announced in our January 2025 magazine. £1 from every selected entry (we reserved the right to exclude entries) will be donated to RSPCA Chesterfield.

HERE are the latest entries into our Top Pet competition – and YOUR pet could be a winner and appear on the front page of the magazine. This is your last chance – if you live in Derbyshire – to enter your pet into the competition, as the closing date is November 11, 2024, and the last entries will appear in the December issue.

1. Email the name and number of who you want to win to: hello@bannisterpublications.co.uk

2. Head over to the competitions page and place your vote online at: www.reflections-magazine.com

3. Post to us the name and number of who you want to win to: ‘Top Pet’, Bannister Publications, Office 2A, Market Hall, Chesterfield, S40 1AR

Fantastic Cruise Offers

FROM MARTINS WORLD TRAVEL

With darker evenings and a chill in the air, now is the time to choose a superb cruise holiday and escape to warmer climes and exciting destinations in the comfort of a luxury cruise liner.

Fred. Olsen Cruises are offering some sensational itineraries and exceptional offers for booking now and travelling in the next few months. In addition to stunning offer fares some itineraries also include a free drinks package. For single passengers there are special “solo” fare offers too. Opportunity is available to head south to the sunny and much warmer climes of the

Canary Islands. Alternatively, guests may choose to venture north in search of the Northern Lights in north Norway, discovering the traditions of the Sami People along the way.

Key advantages of going on a Fred. Olsen cruise are the greater itinerary flexibility on offer and having the ability to reach smaller ports and inlets, which bigger ships might not be able to access.

NOVEMBER 19TH, 2024, 10 NIGHTS, BALMORAL SAILING FROM NEWCASTLE.

From £1299 per person Free Drinks Package. Solo Cruise Offer.

Highlights: Molde, Cross the Arctic Circle, Alta, Tromso, Seven Sisters Mountain Range, Alesund.

HAND-CRAFTED HIGHLIGHTS

Specially designed to visit northern Norway during the Northern Lights season, travellers will have the opportunity to spot the natural phenomenon of dancing lights from both on board Balmoral and ashore in Alta during an extended stay. Crossing the Arctic Circle,

there will be opportunity to view remote coastal scenery –cruising past the Seven Sisters mountain range and sailing through the Tjeldsundet Strait.

A tour spending time with a Sámi community in the remote Arctic wilderness is a once-in-alifetime experience – as is visiting a husky yard to learn about local culture and traditions.

NOVEMBER

24TH, 2024, 18 NIGHTS, BOLETTE SAILING FROM LIVERPOOL.

From £1799 per person Free Drinks Package. Solo Cruise Offer.

Highlights: Lanzerote, Praia, Mindelo, La Palma, Tenerife and Lisbon.

With just 690 cabins, Bolette fits perfectly in the fleet of Fred. Olsen’s smaller ships.

HAND-CRAFTED HIGHLIGHTS

Cape Verde is a cultural melting pot of Portuguese and African traditions, so when in Praia and Mindelo, guests have the chance to experience the archipelago’s laid-back way of life and traditional art forms,

such as morna and funaná music and dance styles. On this wonderful cruise there’s opportunity to witness the natural volcanic landscapes of La Palma’s Teneguía Volcano, Lanzarote’s Timanfaya National Park and Mount Teide in Tenerife. Lisbon’s fascinating past can be explored at sites such as the Maritime Museum and Jerónimos Monastery.

P&O CRUISES

P&O boasts magnificent cruise ships, excellent facilities and friendly, attentive on-board service.

Three amazing longcruise itineraries this winter venture to the colourful and sensational Caribbean. Each cruise represents incredible value and departs Southampton for a duration of 35 nights.

January 3rd, 2025, from £2999 per person (based on inside cabin).

Visits: La Coruna, Hamilton, Freeport, Cozumel, Roatan, Belize, New Orleans, Miami, Port Canaveral and Ponta Delgada.

January 11th, 2025, from £3299 per person (based on balcony cabin).

Visits: Tenerife, Tortola, Bridgetown, Castries, Fort de France, Antigua, Basseterre, St Maarten, Tenerife and La Coruna.

February 27th, 2025, from £2299 per person (based on balcony cabin).

Visits: Tenerife, Barbados, Martinique, St Lucia, Bonaire, Curacao, Dominica, Guadeloupe, Antigua, St Kitts, Tortola and St Maarten.

P&O CRUISE SHIPS

On board every cruise ship, guests can expect the same

P&O Cruises experience. Family friendly or exclusively for adults, larger or a little more modest – P&O has a ship for every occasion and style.

The fleet epitomises the best of modern British cruising and offers an unrivalled holiday experience.

The second you step on board, your holiday begins. You can sink into a spa treatment, sip cocktails by the pool, savour a delicious meal in a chic restaurant, soak up some live music and more, all while sailing leisurely to your first destination. A cruise combines the best parts of a holiday – such as fascinating destinations and getting under the skin of new cultures – with the excitement of exploring a luxury ship.

For the absolute best value and service book with your local cruise specialists, Martins World Travel

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

BIG, OPEN SPACES! HEAD NORTH FOR

THIS walk is in the extreme north of the Peak District – much of it in West Yorkshire – and threads around four reservoirs. If you like big, open spaces, this walk is perfect!

ROUTE

1 With the reservoir on your right, head left to join the Pennine Way, which runs parallel to the A62 for a while, and starts to rise above it before turning to the right. A National Trust sign welcomes you to the Marsden Moor estate. Go through the stile, and keep following the Pennine Way. A junction of paths sees the Standedge Trail branch off to the left. Ignore this, and keep on the Pennine Way, marked on the sign ‘Wessenden & Black Hill’.

2 Soon, the Pennine Way turns to the left but carry straight on to walk along the embankment the first of the four reservoirs, which is called Black Moss. At the end of the embankment, turn left as you reach a little wall and follow the clear path until you rejoin the Pennine Way. Turn right and then left along the Pennine Way, traversing the various gullies and streams which drain into the reservoirs. To your left is Swellands Reservoir, before the trail takes a right alongside Blakely Clough. A ford near a weir takes you to the other side of the brook.

3 Near a stone structure, turn left to continue on the Pennine Way, which drops down fairly steeply towards Wessenden Brook. Cross the footbridge and turn left to climb to a junction of paths. Here, the Pennine Way turns right but we take to the left, to walk along the well-made track of the Kirklees Way. The body of water on the left is Blakely Reservoir. The track passes to the right edge of the embankment, and as Broadhead Wood and Holme Bank Wood covers the right side of the valley, the feeder channel to Blakeley Reservoir into another reservoir, called Butterley. Continue alongside the larger reservoir, follow the track around to the right and past to edge of the embankment to meet Binn Road.

4 Take the left footpath down the steps to the bottom of the valley. At the foot of the steps, turn left at the car park and go through the gap in the gate to the right of the building to cross over the stone bridge. Once over, turn left and then find a path in the middle of the trees to the right to

climb the steps (which are tricky when wet). At the top, go through a gate, and follow the worn-down path to the right around the back of a farm to eventually meet Mount Road. Cross straight over, to walk up Netherley Drive and veer to the right at the bend, to walk up a right of way which is a drive for several houses. Keep to the right of all splits and eventually you reach Old Mount Road. Turn sharp left and watch for a public footpath marker on the right, near a line of trees. Turn right here and climb between the houses, and then turn second left to join the Standedge Trail. The trail eventually meets Mount Road. Here, turn right and walk along the road, past a small parking area on the right, to find a footpath marker on the brow of a hill. Cross the road, and follow the line of the sign along a clearly visible path with a stream on the left towards the last reservoir, called Redbrick.

5 Walk alongside the reservoir, cross the stile to reach the A62 Manchester Road, Cross straight over, picking up the footpath

Above: Redbrook Reservoir and Pule Hill.

Above: This walk takes you along the embankment of Black Moss Reservoir.

© walking-books.com

across several little bridges and another ford as it turns to the left. Follow the clear path to eventually meet the Pennine

Way again. Turn left and walk along the Pennine Way to reach the A62 further along, crossing over to return to the car park.

FACT FILE

START: Brun Clough Reservoir car park, OL3 5LT

DISTANCE: 7.1miles (11.3km)

HEIGHT GAIN: 1,205ft (367m)

TAKEN FROM: The Peak District Pack is the ultimate walker’s companion, combining 20 routes together with professional mapping on weatherproof cards, which can be taken on the walks in a map case provided. You can save £4 on the RRP of £14.95 if ordered direct from the publisher at walking-books.com You can also buy a set – there is a Peak District Pack 2 featuring another 20 walks – for £19.90 through that website, which has a flat rate of £2 postage on all orders up to £19.99.

A busy working mum’s

illustrations are superb!

Steve Brown meets a very busy mum running an online illustrations business.

MANY of the artists featured in Reflections over the years have been well established in their fields and are working full time in their crafts. However, imagine being a mother with two very young children, continuing to be very successful in local paid employment, helping on your in-laws’ busy livestock farm and yet somehow also finding time to run an online illustrations business from the kitchen table.

Tideswell-based Hollie Spalton somehow finds time to do all this from her family home in the village but freely admits that she’s definitely looking forward to the completion of a studio in the back garden

so that she can spend more quality time on her art. She hopes she can then do her artistic ambitions justice and expand her business without the inevitable distractions of young Archie and Evie!

Originally from Halifax, West Yorkshire, Hollie moved to rural Leicestershire at the age of four to a village called Wymondham. Hollie moved on after A-levels to the study of Fashion Design at the University of Huddersfield. Her mum, Linda, has always been very artistic, being a potter and training people in this craft as well as doing her own paintings. Hollie’s love of art and drawing is carrying on this family trait; she also loved making things as a child. Her final

Above: An illustration of Jesse.

Below: Hollie Spalton with some of her artwork.

collection on graduating from Huddersfield saw her making no less than seven outfits in achieving her first-class degree.

Hollie took her time after graduating to choose a job which suited her best, eventually working for a company designing and making slippers and soft footwear for several well-known retail outlets while living with her father back in Leicestershire. It was then that she met her future husband through online dating and after their marriage she moved up to Chapel-en-le-Frith in Derbyshire to be with him and to help on his family’s farm near Stoney Middleton.

Hollie then spent a period commuting from the Peak District into Manchester to work on design for a company making soft accessories. She now admits that she found the world of fashion to be one that people who only see its surface can rarely envisage, one of endless deadlines and pressure. So she took a life-changing decision to take a break from this type of work on being made redundant. She worked for a while in retail at the National Trust’s Lyme Park before going to work for Bagshaws, the well-known business based in Bakewell, where she has worked her way up to become Marketing and Design Manager.

Though Hollie’s love for art was present from a young age, it wasn’t until after her fashion career that she fully embraced drawing. Her style with a fine pen and ink includes incredible detail, down to individual hairs and lines, which is especially evident in her black and white pieces.

Her latest collection, ‘Furry Friends’, features coloured illustrations, which she starts with a colour wash before applying the fine details. Hollie creates her illustrations and artwork from photos (the only way to draw animals in natural poses as they don’t stay still for long!). She does an outline in pencil, highlighting hair movement, shadow and highlights and, most importantly, the position and size of the eyes! She has particularly enjoyed creating animal portraits and was fortunate in having many willing, or unwilling, subjects on the family farm. Cattle, sheep, horses, farm

and family dogs all became the subject of her pen, starting with black and white but then introducing colours as she developed her techniques and her confidence.

Hollie’s portraits are characterised by her subjects’ quirky poses, catching the animals in natural positions rather than ones created for the camera and, as a result, she encourages her commission customers to take as many photos of their animals

A Hollie dog illustration entitled ‘I’m so excited’.

as possible so she can choose the most suitable ones for the portraits. Commissions for pet portraits are currently an important part of her work but she also has cards and pictures for sale based on several collections, each with an individual theme.

‘Farmyard’ and ‘Furry Friends’ contain pen portraits and pictures of animals/fowl in the first and of well-loved pets in the second;

while Woodland depicts owls and other forest dwellers. Hollie would like to develop her collections further as part of her development as an artist, perhaps a Fruit and Veg portfolio, she muses? Also, she’s thinking about maps of the Peak District or smaller local areas or perhaps branching out into pictures of well-known local buildings such as Solomon’s Temple near Buxton; these would be interesting new departures for her. She would especially love to illustrate a children’s story book, so if there are any aspirant authors out there looking for an illustrator?

Hollie has sold her cards in the wool shop in Tideswell and tea rooms in Eyam but until recently her main source of exhibiting and selling her works was her own website at www.hsillustrations.co.uk To her obvious pleasure, however, it was her decision to get together with four other local artists and artisans in Tideswell and exhibit in the local institute for Derbyshire Open Arts in late May this year which made her realise that that she was perhaps better known in the art world than she thought; as she met so many people interested in her work there. Through this exhibition, she attracted more commissions for portraits and, hopefully, the Tideswell group will get together again in future to repeat this success.

As Hollie continues to balance family life and work, her artistic journey is just beginning. With her workshop on the horizon and wishing to expand her collections; there’s no doubt her unique style will soon reach a wider audience. We can only wish this hardworking lady well and hope that she enjoys artistic success in future!

Above: A Hollie print of donkeys, available on her website.

Below: A card entitled ‘Nosey Parker’, available through Hollie’s website.

The last pictures in our 2024 competition

THESE are the last pictures for the 2024 ‘Lovely Landscapes’ competition before the finals next month –when we want YOUR votes.

Russ Teale, of Newbold; took this on September 29 on Froggatt Edge, when a stunning inversion gave a spooky feeling to the landscape.

Cave Dale at Castleton next, taken on October 4 by Gillian Diggett, of Darley Dale.

A true supporter of the English countryside captured near Chelmorton in August, taken by Christine Waddington, of Great Longstone.

Derbyshire’s version of the Hadrian’s Wall Sycamore – high above Winnatt’s Pass – taken on October 4 by Peter Wigglesworth, of Matlock.

White Edge Lodge in twilight on October 4, taken by Lisa Hands, of Sheffield.

The trees are at Staden quarry, a disused limestone quarry near Buxton, taken in June by Graham Woollven, of Matlock.

Early evening shadows near Curbar in early September, taken by Brian Smith, of Upper Newbold.

The Vale of Edale, taken from the Pennine Way just as it leaves Edale village, by Philip Mansbridge, of Chesterfield.

Here’s a picture of lovely Lathkill Dale, taken from Wellgate Lane in early October by Peter Keeble, of Matlock Bath.

Bailey’s Tump is a World War Two Air Defence site off Asker Lane in Matlock.  It was restored in 2006 as a joint project between Matlock Civic Association and Matlock Town Council when the bronze plaque was installed.

Taken on September 4 by Ken Parker, of Matlock, with Riber Castle is on the horizon.

Monsal Dale and Upperdale, taken on October 5 by Rachel Leah, of Dronfield Woodhouse, who says: “What a beautiful day it was for a walk.”

G.W

P.M

K.P

P.K

PICTURE COMPETITION

From Chatsworth Farm Shop looking towards Edensor –showing a brace, covey or nide (nye) depending on your name for a group of pheasants – taken by Stuart Else, of Matlock.

Taken from the road out of Bakewell, just past Ballcross Farm, looking into the Derwent Valley, in late August by Gail Lilley, of Stanton in Peak.

Finally, we have Nelson’s Column on Birchen Edge, taken October 13 by Jane Alderson, of Chesterfield.

These are the last pictures in the 2024 ‘Lovely Landscapes’ competition. We will select our finalists now – and we want YOU to help us choose a winner; with full details on how to vote when we publish the finalists next month.

The winner will receive a meal for two at a top local restaurant, plus the chance to have a selection of their images published in Reflections.

S.E

G.L

J.A

SHEFFIELD CITY HALL

Jools

BUXTON OPERA HOUSE

Rhod Gilbert & The Giant Grapefruit

WINDING WHEEL

Other Events

1-2 Bonfire and Fireworks at Chatsworth. This year, the Chatsworth bonfire and fireworks evenings will take place on Friday and Saturday, November 1 & 2 from 6pm. Enjoy family entertainment and two spectacular fireworks displays, including an earlier display designed especially for youngest visitors. You can also tuck into a selection of seasonal food, from hog roasts to churros and sweet treats. Round it off with a glass of mulled wine or cider. Full event information at www.chatsworth.org

2 FRIGHT NIGHT at Cromford Mills. Prepare to be scared... take on the Fright Night SCARE MAZE. Step inside one of Cromford Mill’s creepiest buildings and follow the sinister twists and turns of the horror maze… can you handle what’s around each corner? For more information visit: www.cromfordmills.org.uk

7 Festival of Remembrance 2024. Concert followed by Festival of Remembrance at The Pavilion, Matlock Bath, organised by 365 Mess of the Fellowship of the Services 2015 in association with Royal British Legion Matlock Branch. Doors open at 6.30pm, start time 7.20pm. Admission £6.50. There is no preferential seating for this event. Please note: This venue is accessed by stairs only, and there is no lift access. Please contact us on info@thegrandpavilion. co.uk should you require assistance

8 Cromford Mills Fundraiser. Join us as music of Sinfonia Viva fills the air and you soak in the rich, atmospheric surroundings. Savour a memorable night of delicious food, great company and entertainment. Then play your part as renowned auctioneer James Lewis unveils extraordinary Behind the Scenes experiences in a one-of-a-kind auction. Don’t miss this chance to support the Arkwright Society! Musicians from Sinfonia Viva will be playing on the top floor of Building One, only accessible by stairs. They will also play on the ground floor alongside other entertainment. Ticket £45, includes a drink on arrival, food and entertainment. All money raised will go to the charity.

9 - 1 Dec Chatsworth Christmas Market. Over 100 market stalls offering a wide range of Christmas gifts and decorations plus live music and seasonal food and drink, it’s a lovely way to welcome in the festive season. You can also explore the Stables shop. Take a break from shopping and enjoy a mulled wine or a German beer at one of the outdoor bars, or sample some delicious food, with gourmet burgers and sausages, hot pork rolls, pancakes, churros and more. Alternatively, book a lunch or an afternoon tea in the Cavendish restaurant; pre-booking is essential. For full event information, please visit www.chatsworth.org

ENTERTAINMENT

9-10 Wirksworth Model Railway Exhibition. The popular exhibition organised by the Ecclesbourne Valley Railway Association is back, spread across three venues in the town. Of course, the big trains will playing their part too! More details closer to the event – please see our website www.e-v-r.com

9 Eyam PTFA Bonfire and Firework Display. From 5.30pm, the entertainment starts in the village square. At 6.15pm the live-music, torchlit procession leads the Eyam Rat through the village. The willow rat depicts the Eyam plague story of 1665 and is crafted by local schoolchildren. Accompanied by chants of ‘Burn the Rat’, it is set ablaze on a towering bonfire, followed by a spectacular firework display. Treat yourself to a delicious selection of hearty food and drink including jacket potatoes with chilli or baked beans and cheese, farmhouse sausage hot dogs, homemade soup, classic parkin, traditional roast chestnuts, bags of bonfire toffee, locally-brewed beers and ciders, spiced mulled wine, hot and cold drinks. Buy tickets early to avoid disappointment from Eyam Stores, Fruit & Veg Shop, The Miners Arms, Calver Spar and Bloom Bar & Grill. Adults £9 (16 and over), Children £4 (2-15), Under2s admitted free. All funds raised go to Eyam Primary School PTFA and the local community.

13-18 Christmas House Tours at Thornbridge Hall. One-hour house tour with a minced pie and mulled wine plus garden entry. The tour takes in the Great Hall with its two spectacular 15ft lit Christmas trees, the music room, the family sitting room and the family kitchen set for Christmas Dinner, plus enjoy a mince pie and mulled wine in the house bar. For tickets and more information, visit: www.thornbridgehall.co.uk

16-17 Bakewell Christmas Market. Join us at Bakewell Christmas Market Weekend and browse through our incredible selection of festive stalls, delicious food and drink and not forgetting the vast selection of entertainment we have planned over the weekend. Expect to see local brass, silver bands, choirs and a DJ playing; food and drink stalls; meet Santa in town. Watch Buxton’s legendary Billerettes on Sunday. Keep a look out for Rachel’s magical entertainment and her Disney characters; children’s fair rides; James Mckay and his owls of Harry Potter fame and much more 16 Music at Duffield Presents Ensemble Renard. At 7.30pm at St Alkmund’s Church, Church Drive (off Makeney Road), Duffield DE56 4BA. Ensemble Renard have quickly emerged as one of the UK’s most promising young chamber ensembles. Individual tickets are available at the door or from Caroline Morgan (Tel: 07977 091171) and also online at www.musicatduffield. com or www.wegottickets.com For further details about Music at Duffield and future concerts, visit www.musicatduffield.com

16-Dec 1 A Festival of Christmas Trees at the Crooked Spire Church. The Crooked Spire is the largest church in Derbyshire and will be filled with more than 100 Christmas trees. The trees are decorated by local people, groups and shops, from WIs to scout and guide groups, from schools to high

street stores, from accountants to Chesterfield Museum and many more besides. Now in its tenth year, the festival continues to grow. Admission is free, but donations will be gratefully accepted.

17 Chesterfield Christmas Lights Switch On and Market. 12.30pm to 5:30pm. Residents and visitors can get into the festive spirit at the event, organised by Chesterfield Borough Council. A market will be in the Market Square and the Market Hall will be open, so shoppers can start picking up presents from local businesses. Email markets@ chesterfield.gov.uk or phone 01246 345999

16 - Dec 15 Castleton Church Christmas Tree Festival. The festival is part of the annual Christmas lights switch-on in Castleton, which takes place on November 16. The festival includes Santa’s Grotto and carol concerts. The village is decorated with lights, trees and other Christmas decorations from November 16 to January 2, 2025. The Castleton Visitor Centre and cafe also offers late-night shopping every weekend up to Christmas.

22-Dec 30 Lights of Abraham. This winter, experience the Heights of Abraham in a brand new light as it presents a stunning light trail. Tickets are on sale now! Make your way down the festoon-lit riverside walkway before arriving at the base station to take a moonlit cable car flight across the river and above an avenue of colour. Once you arrive at the summit, set off on the trail that winds through illuminated gardens, across boardwalks and along woodland paths. Look out for the twinkling herons, the fairy gathering, giant stars, the enchanted forest and colourful surprises around every corner. The Vista Bar, Treetops Cafe and Snap Tin catering unit will be open.

22-24 Banks Mill Open Studios. Fri 4-7pm, Sat and Sun 10am-5pm, 71 Bridge Street, Derby, DE1 3LB. Meet over 50 artists, designers and makers in their working studios. Browse an exhibition of artwork and buy handmade products and original art from local makers. Free to attend, find out more www.banksmill-openstudios.co.uk

23- Dec 15 Visit Santa’s Grotto at Creswell Crags. Join us in our crafting room, making your own take crafts while you wait to see the big guy. Simply book your time slot, then when you arrive you’ll receive your waiting list number and you can get crafting. As soon as it’s your turn, you’ll hear us call! Each family will get to visit Santa in his grotto when their number is called, and each child you have bought a ticket for will be given an age-appropriate Christmas present.

30 Bolsover Winter Festival. The Festival and Lantern Parade continues to grow each year with increasing numbers of stalls and visitors. The event is held in the town centre and is free to visitors. There are stalls in the town centre, including Cavendish Walk and at the Assembly Rooms. This event is organised and managed by Old Bolsover Town Council. The Lantern Parade starts at 4pm.

30 Old Brampton Church Advent Event. 10am-12noon. Christmas gifts, stalls, tombola, refreshments and more in the Old Brampton Schoolroom S42 7JG

18 The Corrs plus Natalie Imbruglia 

Paul Smith 

Steelers v Dundee Stars

Steelers v Nottingham Panthers

THE DIRECTORY

Prize Crossword

Congratulations to G Beck of Cromford, who won the October 2024 crossword. They won £25

Why not have a go at the November 2024 crossword on page 61