Reflections Magazine September 2024

September 2024

REFLECTIONS MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER 2024

Editor: Barrie Farnsworth, E: barrief@bannisterpublications.co.uk

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

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

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

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

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Published by: Bannister Publications Ltd. Tel. 01246 550 488 (3 lines). Bannister Publications Limited, Office 2A Market Hall, Market Pl, Chesterfield, Derbyshire. S40 1AR. Reflections is published monthly and delivered directly to homes which fall into

and

14,22,44,52 Countywide News

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

16 Aled Jones comes Full Circle to Chesterfield! His latest tour comes to the Winding Wheel Theatre on September 27. Justin Chandler talks to him about his fascinating life

32 Property of the Month

The Grade II-listed, sevenbedroom Handley House

46 Chess club celebrates its centenary Chesterfield Chess Club’s first-team captain, Martin Howard, looks at the highlights of its first 100 years

54 Pitcher Wits

55 Prize Crossword

56 Musical commemoration of the 1984-85 miners’ strike

In this 40th anniversary of the miners’ strike, Leonie Martin talks to Jonathan Francis about the forthcoming premier of his musical composition – his tribute to the lost mining communities

68 From railway signaller to artistic stitcher!

Steve Brown talks to Tracey Coverley, whose remarkable stitched artwork is attracting attention far and wide

72 Fashion: Time to create a capsule wardrobe

Make everyday dressing a breeze with a capsule wardrobe of luxe basics which will stand the test of time, says Amy Norbury.

Cover: Aled Jones on his Fill Circle tour, which comes to Chesterfield on September 27. Read about his fascinating life on P16.

78 Food Review

‘Rafters’ restaurant at the Riverside House Hotel, Ashford in the Water

80 Signature Dish

A classic from Dan Smith, head chef of The Peacock at Rowsley

84 Out & About

Enjoy a local route in the YHA’s Festival of Walking, which starts this month

88 A Derbyshire dale in summer sunshine

The latest entries into our 2024 ‘Lovely Landscapes’ photographic competition

Our comprehensive look at forthcoming events across the county and beyond in September and early October 16 78 92 94 68

92 Antiques: A designer way ahead of his time…

Our expert, Vivienne Milburn, looks at the work of Dr Christopher Dresser, the Victorian man whose designs were so modern

94 Top Pet

The latest entries into our ‘Top Pet’ competition – and we need your votes!

96 What’s On

Become a Champion for Sheffield Children’s Hospital

SINCe the programme began, the Children’s Champions group have helped to raise over £600,000 for Sheffield Children’s. Starting as a small group of philanthropic individuals, the programme has grown to the exclusive membership club it is today.

Children’s Champions donate monthly or annually towards enhancements to Sheffield Children’s, funding hundreds of thousands of pounds of equipment, research and new facilities.

Sheffield Children’s is an incredible place, treating children not just from this region, but from across the country and around the world too.

In 2012, Champions helped

to fund the 3T MRI scanner, offering a new way to scan and remove brain tumours, scanning over 1,000 patients in the first six months of it arriving.

Since then, funding has contributed to a state-of-the-art Cancer Ward, a specialist spinal scanner, the building of a brandnew Helipad, new technologies to record operations and teach surgeons around the world and much more.

Donations from Children’s Champions help the hospital to be the extraordinary facility it is today.

By signing up to be a Champion you are joining an exclusive club, offering a tailored, personal plan for your donation and the chance to see first-hand the difference you are making.

Could you be the next Children’s Champion? To find out how you can make a difference, contact Caitlin at caitlin@tchc.org.uk.

Countywide News

Born in Beverley in East Yorkshire in 1995, Oli moved with his family to Matlock when he was just two, and went to All Saints’ Primary and Highfields School in Matlock.

New health centre to open its doors later this month

BAKEWELL’S new £11-million Newholme Health Centre is set to open its doors to patients on Monday, September 23..

The new facility provides a modern base for a range of NHS outpatient services and an ambulance station in a joint development by Derbyshire Community Health Services NHS Foundation Trust and East Midlands Ambulance Services NHS Trust. It has been built by contractors Kier Group on land which previously housed the old ambulance station on Baslow Road, Bakewell, and on part of the adjoining Newholme Hospital site, which is being decommissioned when the new facilities open.

Jim Austin, executive director spokesman for Derbyshire Community Health Services NHS Foundation Trust, said: “It was important to us to provide real gold standard facilities for patients in the Derbyshire Dales.”

Craig Whyles, divisional director for Derbyshire at East Midlands Ambulance Service NHS Trust, said: “The new building will be such an improvement on our old ambulance station and by physically sharing a space together, it will undoubtedly build on our relationships and work we do to support our communities.”

Olympic bronze for Oli

MATLOCK rower Oli Wilkes brought a bronze medal back from Paris – on his Olympic debut – in the coxless fours rowing event. Oli, (29), teamed up with David Ambler, Matt Aldridge and Freddie Davidson to row into third place behind the USA and New Zealand.

Oli admits he ‘didn’t show much promise in football or rugby’ but loved to mountain bike and swim, joining Matlock Swimming Club.

He started rowing at Liverpool University, then moved to Edinburgh University to do his Masters degree and, as he put it, “I carried on rowing and it snowballed from there.”

Last year, Oli was part of the men’s coxless four that won gold at the World Championships in Belgrade.

One of the coaches who helped 19-year-old Toby Roberts to a climbing gold in the Olympics was Liam Briddon of Doe Lea. He has been a coach for over a decade, and has been with British athletes for the last six seasons.

‘Mega-pylons’ proposal in Derbyshire

NATIONAL Grid’s proposes to install 50 metre ‘mega-pylons’ between Chesterfield and Willington in the south of the county.

The National Grid Electricity Transmission (NGET) is proposing to build a new 60km overhead electricity line. Its ‘Preferred Corridor’ takes it from south of Chesterfield to Stretton, then onto Ripley, Morley, Ockbrook, Aston-on-Trent to Willington.

Oli Wilkes, the Matlock rower won a bronze at the Paris Olympics.

Part of this proposal is to route these lines through and around Morley village using the 50m pylons with one pylon sited every 330 metres.

Details can be found on nationalgrid. com and the non-statutory public consultation ends on September 17.

Two Morley parish councillors have set up a ‘Stop The Pylons Derbyshire’ Facebook campaign group, with a website www.stopthepylons.co.uk

Water & Light theme…

IMAGES, Imagination, Water & Light: Holymoorside and Walton Arts Festival Society collaborate with artist Ian Geary, writer/poet Leonie Martin and musical trio Flutello.

Chesterfield-based creatives Ian and Leonie have been pooling their talents over the past year as part of a new and exciting project on the theme of Water & Light.

In response to 12 new paintings by Ian, Leonie has composed a series of thought-provoking poems.

On Saturday, October 5 at 2.30pm, Holymoorside and Walton Arts Festival Society will be showcasing Ian and Leonie’s work at Holymoorside Village Hall, with musical interludes by Chesterfield trio Flutello – two flutes and a cello.

Donations from proceeds will go to Pathways of Chesterfield, a service for the homeless or those at risk of homelessness.  Tickets £8, to include tea and cake. To book, email info@holymoorsidearts. co.uk or call 01246 567118 or 861997.

Above: Nearing completion and due to open later this month: Newholme Health Centre in Bakewell.

Aled Jones heading Full Circle to Chesterfield!

Aled Jones’ Full Circle tour comes to Chesterfield’s Winding Wheel Theatre on September 27. Justin Chandler talks to him about his fascinating life.

HE’S been everpresent in our lives for more than 40 years. Aled Jones burst on to the scene and enjoyed remarkable success as a boy singer, finding a place in all our Christmases with his smash hit, Walking In The Air.

He was the boy treble who captivated the world with his angelic voice. Selling over seven million albums, Aled was the original, classical crossover star. His recording from the animated film, The Snowman, firmly established him as a household name.

Equally at home on the classical stage or starring in musical theatre productions in London West End, his credits include lead roles in Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang and Irving Berlin’s White Christmas. As a singer, Aled is in demand globally and has performed in the world’s most iconic venues, from London’s Royal Albert Hall to the Sydney Opera House.

A favourite with the royal

family, he even gave a private performance to King Charles III in Kensington Palace. He is an award-winning TV broadcaster and radio presenter who’s interviewed hundreds of A-list stars over the years. He heads up BBC’s Songs of Praise and

his own Saturday and Sunday morning shows on Classic FM.

Now, after 40 years in the business, he’s looking back on a remarkable career with a one-man show, that will feature never-before-heard music, tales from the decades and for the first time, his story told in his own words.

Above: Aled Jones is appearing in Full Circle at the Winding Wheel, Chesterfield, on September 27. Below left: Aled and Claire Jones after the wedding in 2001. They have two children, Emilia and Lucas.

Full Circle is the title of both his new book, out in March, and his new tour. Fans can enjoy that unmistakeable voice, as well as amusingly told stories from the man who’s synonymous with Classic FC, BBC Radio 2, and BBC TV’s Songs Of Praise.

Having recently been to number one on the Classical charts with his latest album, One Voice, which paired boy-Aled with man-Aled, he’s somehow managed to sustain a level of success across four decades.

Having enjoyed a remarkable four years as a child, during which he became the most interviewed guest on TV’s Wogan talk show – forming a close bond

with the ace BBC presenter – he forged a new career.

He became a star in the West End, in Andrew LloydWebber’s Joseph, while teaming up with Lorraine as co-host on ITV’s Daybreak. He says: “I’ve always felt lucky, having the career I have, but as I get older, I feel that I am so honoured to be living this life. I love what I do for a living.”

The fun part came when he was hanging out with royalty and singing in the Royal Albert Hall, year after year, as a boy.

“It felt like being the heavyweight boxing champion of the world. I knew that my boyhood was to be short-lived but for those four years I crammed in as much as I could. Maximum singing and maximum fun! The fun bit was down to my mum and dad, really. When I was back at school, it was interesting, to say the least!”

private performance for Prince Charles and Princess Diana in their home in Kensington Palace. The Palace rang my dad at work and my dad put the phone down thinking it was someone from his work playing a practical joke. Then an equerry rang back and said the call was for real!

“The highlight was the private performance for Prince Charles and Princess Diana in their home in Kensington Palace.”

His relationship with the royal family has endured over many years. He shared the same hairdresser as Princess Diana and was invited to sing for Charles and Di while still a boy.

“The highlight was the

“Prince Charles apparently loved my voice and wanted to hear me sing before my voice broke. How would Thursday evening be?

My dad said: ‘Yes, that will be fine.’ So off I went from North Wales, with my mum and my pianist, and I arrived at Kensington Palace. We knew the butler well, because he was a friend of my great uncle, and I remember sitting in their private front room in Kensington Palace. I sat on one sofa and my accompanist from North Wales, Annette Bryn Parri, who’d

never been to London, much less Kensington Palace, sat on the other, with my mother also in the room.

“We waited in silence, until the Prince entered first. ‘Mrs Jones, or can I call you Nest?’ He said: ‘What would you like to drink?’ And I could see my mum thinking: ‘Does he mean water, or coffee or tea?’ And then he placed a hand on her knee and said: ‘You’ll join me in a gin and tonic, won’t you?’ She breathed out a sigh of relief and said ‘yes’. And Diana came bounding in after that. She’d got wet hair because she’d been swimming. I knew her quite well anyway, by that point, so we had a hug. I sang for an hour,

whatever songs they wanted.”

And then there was the performance at the celebrity wedding of the year, when Bob Geldof married Paula Yates and rock royalty were there. Aled was photographed next to David Bowie, before following the members of Spandau Ballet around for the day, in case they wanted him to join.

“The wedding was utterly beautiful. I sang my songs, and I remember looking into the congregation and seeing a sea of famous faces all smiling, enjoying the music. After the service, I was sitting by the organ with Jess and I remember Simon Le Bon, who was best man,

Above: Aled received his MBE from Prince William in 2013.

Right: Aled was the boy treble who had a smash hit in 1985 with Walking In The Air.

Right: Aled Jons joined Lorraine Kell as co-host of ITV’s Daybreak from 2012-14.

coming up and saying: ‘I loved your singing, but more than anything, I love your socks.’

“Let me tell you about my socks. At my school, at the time, there was a fad for wearing luminous socks, one orange and one green, and I wore those for the wedding. What was I thinking! Simon led me upstairs to the house where about 20 of the guests had gathered for the official photo. I was told to go and stand behind a big chair. And so was born one of the most iconic wedding photos ever. I had no idea at the time that the man sitting in front of me, whose shoulder I had my hand on, was the one and only David Bowie! I couldn’t take it all in!

“Bob Geldof suggested we all went out to play baseball, or rounders. It was Paula’s team versus Bob’s team. I was on team Bob if I remember correctly. There were pop A-listers playing rounders in their tuxedos. Light started to fade and I heard Bob shout: ‘Al, take off one of your socks, will you?’ And we put one of my luminous socks on the ball so that we could still

see it as it started to get dark. It was all surreal. Then there was massive fireworks display and a free bar, with the party going on into the early hours.

“As you can imagine the live band at the party was out of this world. Duran Duran, Spandau Ballet, Lulu, etc, all sharing the mic. I didn’t sing then! It was all quite incredible. My dad was an engineer at the time and my mum was a primary school teacher and there we were, the three of us were, rubbing shoulders with A-list celebrities. My parents had the time of their lives. It was the most extravagant and spectacular thing I’d ever witnessed. Bob and Paula were so kind to me and I was honoured to sing on their big day.”

“There’s a video of Julie Andrews and me I singing Edelweiss and at the end, she gives me a kiss. That video was probably the most overwhelming thing I’ve ever done. “

He sang for Leonard Bernstein, a man he likens to Mozart, and became great friends with Judy Dench. He played alongside Julie Andrews, and won an Ivor Novello, an Emmy, and an MBE – not that he can remember where any of those are. And then he became one of the nation’s best and most loved interviewers and presenters – so much so that Michael Parkinson told him there was nobody else better, well, apart from himself!

Aled says: “There’s a video of Julie Andrews and me I singing Edelweiss and at the end, she gives me a kiss. That video was probably the most overwhelming thing I’ve ever

done. For me, she’s one of the greatest, if not the greatest, film stars of my generation. Growing up, I Ioved those films, like Mary Poppins or The Sound of Music. A brilliant actress with a sublime voice.”

To get the invitation to interview Julie Andrews on her tour was just a dream come true. It was a pinch-me moment. “Julie was so lovely to me. She wrote me a handwritten letter at the end of the tour. I have it framed in my office. Working with her is one of the highlights of my career. It wasn’t just that we performed together onstage. It was also the time we spent backstage, where we were as thick as thieves. I was singing Edelweiss with Dame Julie Andrews. It doesn’t get any better than that. It was supercalifragilisticexpialidocious.”

Editor’s Note: Full Circle is a fabulous evening of song and stories at the Winding Wheel on September 27 at 7.30pm. Tickets start at £33.20; to book, go to chesterfieldtheatres.co.uk, officialaledjones.com/

Sky-high hopes for restoration!

HOPES are sky high for Kinder Scout’s peatlands as restoration works resume with a dramatic start.

Work to restore another 526 hectares of peatland on Kinder Scout started again last month with dramatic helicopter lifts taking materials to the hill famous for its links to the mass trespass and for being the highest point in the Peak District.

Flown-in materials will help stabilise peat and help new peat bogs form. The restoration will help to capture carbon, provide homes for wildlife, reduce flood risk and improve water quality. It’s all part of the National Trust’s peatland restoration work in Peakland.

The first helicopter lifts carried heather brash, lime, seed and fertiliser to some of the hardest-to-reach locations on Kinder Scout, which will be used to stabilise bare peat by temporarily lowering its acidity and create the right conditions for moorland plants to grow.

Other vital components of the project to help peat bogs form and hold water on the moors include building thousands of stone dams in gullies and planting hundreds of thousands of sphagnum moss plugs.

Earlier this year, in the first phase of the project, around 130,000 of the 800,000 sphagnum moss plug plants needed for the restoration were planted before work paused for ground nesting bird season.

The restoration has been made possible thanks to part of a grand total of £1.86m of funding from Natural England’s Nature for Climate Peatland Grant Scheme, as well as £400,000 the National Trust have

allocated to carry out the restoration works on Kinder Scout. The project is expected to be completed by 2025.

Helping salmon back to Derbyshire’s rivers

FOR the first time in a century, Atlantic salmon are once again spawning in the upper waters of the River Ecclesbourne.

Now the health of some of the Derbyshire rivers has improved to an extent that salmon can once again spawn. But the routes for the fish to return are still blocked by the remnants of the industrial boom, with numerous dams and weirs still blocking the migratory route of salmon.

Dr Tim Jacklin is a Conservation Officer for the Wild Trout Trust and was involved with the removal of a weir at Snake Lane, Duffield, which allowed the salmon to recolonise the headwaters of the River Ecclesbourne.

“We’d started to see large salmon turning up in winter,” explains Tim. “They became sort of local celebrities. People were going out with their head torches at night and looking into the river and these fish were as long as your arm.”

“But it also highlighted the fact that Snake Lane Weir was a complete barrier to fish getting upstream.”

They removed the weir and replaced it with a boulder rapid that the fish would, once again, navigate over. Says Tim: “We opened up a good ten kilometres of spawning habitat upstream.”

Over the past seven years, the Environment Agency has worked with partners and developers on the construction of fish passes on a number of weirs in Derbyshire. These passes have enabled adult salmon to swim freely further up the rivers.

Fisheries Specialist at the Environment Agency, Matt Buck, said: “Thanks to this work, we are, for the first time ever, witnessing a recovering population of salmon on the River Derwent and other local rivers, which is excellent. Last year we saw a record number of sightings of adult salmon.”

Tree planting helps hospice…

A GROUNDS maintenance company has been planting trees across Derbyshire and has so far raised £2,300 for a muchloved hospice at the same time.

Clay Cross-based Shed Grounds Maintenance embarked on a tree planting mission in aid of Chesterfield’s Ashgate Hospice to mark their 20 years in business.

Company managing director Peter Botham said the initiative had been inspired by the ‘Queen’s Green Canopy’ project – a national initiative to mark the late monarch’s Platinum Jubilee in 2022.

To celebrate its 20th birthday, the company has been planting trees at 20 of its clients’ sites over the past year and making a £100 donation each time to Ashgate Hospice. Peter said many clients had match funded the donation.

Peter said they had plans to continue to gift trees to its clients through the coming winter and continue to raise money for Ashgate Hospice.

New homes on former hospital site

WORK to transform the site of the former Bolsover Hospital into an exclusive development of new homes is now underway. Forge New Homes is set to deliver 58 new homes there.

Known as Welbeck Gardens, the development is being delivered in partnership with the Lindum Group. There will be three- and fourbedroom homes, with the affordable three-bed homes available to rent through Together Housing Group.

The homes will be created on a 6.5acre site which had been the home of Bolsover Hospital for 31 years. Work is estimated for completion in June 2026.

A helicopter delivering materials to help restore peatlands on Kinder Scout. Picture by Paul Harris, courtesy National Trust.

Relate – a counselling service for everyone

COUNSELLING with RELATE takes place in a confidential, safe space where a nonjudgemental trained (Degree or Masters in Counselling and Psychotherapy) professional can help explore feelings, beliefs and behaviours to deal with emotional issues with the aim to help understand, resolve complicated feelings, set goals and work towards change. Our counsellors specialise in working with young and older people, couples of any sex and families. What you talk about will depend on what you want help with –examples could include:

• Relationships

• Childhood

• Domestic Violence

• Feelings, emotions, thoughts

• Behaviours

• Past and present events

• School, or work environment

• Difficult situations

• Emotional difficulties –phobias, anxiety, depression

Key Life Triggers –

At any point strain can be felt, for example difficulty in childhood and the effect on later life.

Negative Childhood

Can lead to low self-worth and esteem and the inability to make positive relationships

Lack of Confidence in Intimate Sexual Relationships

Can be created by trauma, negative sexual encounters, traumatic childhood

Birth af a Baby

A time of joy but can also be traumatic changing a couple’s relationship with different demanding priorities requiring adjustment.

Workplace Stress

Known to cause significant sickness absence, anxiety and depression

Unemployment

The loss of a role and self-worth affects individuals and families.

Retirement

A key trigger in an established

couple relationship, where new ways of being together, starting a new phase in life requires adjustment and negotiation.

If you feel RELATE could help you contact:

T: 01246 382777

Relate Chesterfield & North Derbyshire 3rd Floor Dents Chambers, 81 New Square, Chesterfield, S40 1AH

EXCITING MOVE AND ORGANIC GROWTH FOR VIBRANT VINES!

Celebrating its 15th anniversary with a move to modern, purpose-built premises, Vines Legal Solicitors, Chesterfield-based matrimonial and family law specialists, are committed to the local community and organic growth.

IN response to the need for more space and improved facilities as a result of organic growth, Vines Legal Solicitors took the decision earlier this year to move to the central, contemporary, and easily accessible offices within the Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre.

With an IT fibre connection which offers maximum speed, multi-bandwidth capability, Wi-Fi, air conditioning throughout, access-controlled doors, two meeting rooms, a break-out area, and kitchenettes, the new offices have had

a positive and transformative effect on the continuing success of the practice.

Clients old and new are welcomed into a pleasant, relaxed and comfortable ambience within a professional and contemporary setting.

Vines Legal are a solicitors’ firm with a difference. Committed to exceptional representation for their family law clients, they are also committed to the local Chesterfield and North Derbyshire community.

Director and Principal Solicitor of Vines

Legal, Catherine Wenborn, is proud to be a part of, and contribute wholeheartedly to, the town of Chesterfield and witness its growth and development first hand.

“All our staff live in the area and participate enthusiastically in local events and organisations,” says Catherine. “We, at Vines Legal, are members of Destination Chesterfield and Chesterfield Champions, and are also part of local BNI networking groups. Furthermore, we are proud members of the Derbyshire Trusted Trader Scheme.

“We also employ and train local young people and offer them a structured career path. This means we can nurture our trainee solicitors to the most exacting professional standards, whilst providing them with an opportunity to pave their way for a bright and rewarding future career.”

This approach has certainly paid dividends. Claire Clark joined Managing Director, Catherine Wenborn, in the early days of the firm as a Trainee Solicitor. Over time, she has progressed to the position of Co-Director and has been integral to the ongoing success of the business.

Chloe Payne was also offered a training contract when she first joined as a graduate paralegal and conscientiously worked her way through to qualification as a solicitor. She is now relishing the

challenges and opportunities presented in that role. Similarly, Catrin Jones, was given the same chance of progressing from a paralegal through to fully qualified solicitor, which will come to fruition in December of this year.

Hannah Taylor and Shelby Banner, both joined as graduate paralegals and are now trainee solicitors, and will qualify in July 2025 and December 2025, respectively.

The beauty of the new offices is that further expansion in terms of both personnel and business is now easily possible with room for more support staff to be employed.

Making up the team is long-standing financial cashier and accounts manager, Roger Balloch. Vines Legal also outsources to ‘Numero’, cashiers in charge of client accounts, Lorraine Cherrington, a regulatory consultant, and Dronfield-based telephone answering service, ‘Paperclip’.

Claire Clark explains the ethos of the firm. “We know that family life isn’t always plain sailing,” said Claire. “Sadly, not all relationships can be successful, and separating is often emotionally and financially stressful. Our family law solicitors provide advice and support needed to help get our clients back on track. We believe in adopting a constructive approach despite the difficulties. No two families are alike. No situation is the same.

“So, our advice is always personal, practical, jargon-free, and tailored for each individual client’s needs. Whether it’s divorce, a dispute with a cohabitant, or securing contact with children, our specialist team will work with our clients to map out a plan for the future. We listen to their priorities and concerns. We clarify their issues and explore their options, and we find the approach that fits best. We’re more than just litigators. As a progressive, dedicated team we are able to provide an individual and caring service to our clients and have the capacity and expertise to manage complex cases.”

“Our advice is always personal, practical, jargonfree, and tailored for each individual client’s needs.”

A growing and ambitious law firm, the core values of Vines Legal are commitment, dedication, and accountability, underpinned perfectly with the characteristics of being progressive, dedicated, and persistent. Whilst the

solicitors will strive to achieve a negotiated outcome for clients wherever possible, they will also adopt a robust position where necessary and work vigorously on behalf of clients to protect their best interests. This is where a detailed knowledge of the law, legal procedures and local practice is essential. A ‘niche’ family law firm, Vines Legal solicitors specialise in this area of law alone and come across relevant legal issues and challenges every day. Catherine stresses just how highly Vines Legal clients are valued. “With us, clients are our top priority and main focus,” said Catherine. “We give our much-appreciated clients the ultimate in personal service and strive to deliver positive outcomes effectively and efficiently. We give a free consultation of up to one hour, which we believe is the minimum amount of time that is required to carry out an in-depth assessment of each individual client’s situation and needs.”

As a special ‘thank you’ to businesses, referrers, and people who have helped Vines Legal along the way over the past 15 years, Catherine and Claire organised a Vines Legal 15th Anniversary Party at the Casa Hotel on 28th June of this year. The high attendance at this party was testament to the high esteem in which this reputable law firm is held locally – not only with clients, but also with fellow professionals.

Vines Legal offers expert advice on all areas of Family Law, including divorce, financial agreements, pre-and post-nuptial agreements, separation agreements, cohabitation disputes and agreements, children’s issues, injunctions, and relocation cases within and out of the UK.

Kitchens, bedrooms, and so much more

Fitted Bedrooms

Fitted bedrooms can be handcrafted bespoke to individual specifications and preferences, complete with fitted wardrobes, dressing tables, beds, mirrors, and luxury finishing touches

Boot Rooms

A boot room to store shoes, boots and coats is an ideal accessory to any living area. Both practical and functional, a boot room helps declutter and create additional space.

Home Offices And Studies

Whether your home calls for a fitted modern office or a slightly more classical study, the wide range of door styles and finishes means that everything is possible. With the creative use of glass and mirrors, even the smallest space can feel spacious and luxurious.

Media Walls

When it comes to design ideas for a kitchen, dining, and living space, media walls are becoming increasingly popular. Media walls provide a more visually stunning focal point as opposed to just a TV mounted on a wall, and they also incorporate storage options.

Sliding Bedroom Doors

Sliding bedrooms doors are a bespoke style statement, individually handmade using different materials and a wide range of finishes.

Kitchen larder pantry cupboards

Kitchen larder pantry cupboards are the perfect choice for those short on space and in need of extra storage for their kitchen. Having everything shelved, ordered and accessible is a muchappreciated amenity for the any cook

FlameCare is fired up by its fundraising for Ashgate Hospice!

AS a locally-based company, deeply rooted in its community, FlameCare feels privileged to have supported Ashgate Hospice in an on-going fund-raising initiative.

“Ashgate Hospice is close to our hearts,” said FlameCare Managing Director, Simon Fletcher. “Many of our staff have experiences of family members receiving the marvellous endof-life care, which they deserve from this amazing charity. Having the privacy and space to spend precious time with loved ones at the end of their lives is so important and special. We are thrilled to contribute to this exceptional service.”

For any new customer who has signed up to a central

heating maintenance plan over the past two or so years, FlameCare has donated the first month’s subscription to Ashgate Hospice.

Rachel Broughton, Senior Corporate and Community Fundraiser at Ashgate Hospice, said: “FlameCare have been a loyal and generous supporter of ours for the past couple of years and we’re so touched by this recent donation.

“To raise an incredible £9,918 towards our care is some achievement, and it will go a long way towards supporting our patients and their families.

“As only 31% of our funding comes from NHS budgets, we rely on the goodwill of

our supporters in order to provide our vital services to the people of North Derbyshire.

“Without our corporate supporters like FlameCare raising funds for the hospice, we wouldn’t be able to keep providing care for the people who need us most.”

Taking out a FlameCare maintenance plan offers complete peace of mind, whilst providing a valuable donation to Ashgate Hospice at the same time!

FlameCare is also planning to undertake the popular Christmas tree collection in January 2025.

Above: (L-R): Rachael Broughton, Senior Corporate and Community Fundraiser at Ashgate Hospice, Vicky Fletcher, Sales and Business Development at FlameCare, Simon Fletcher, Managing Director of FlameCare, Gemma Thompson, Office Manager, and Laura Bower, Head of Accounts – both of FlameCare.

TO FIND OUT

67-77 Chatsworth Road, Chesterfield, S40 2AL

T: 0800 0855 518

E: info@flamecare.co.uk

www.flamecare.co.uk

The Great British Insulation Scheme too

Simon Fletcher, Managing Director of FlameCare in Chesterfield, explains the potential benefits of the £1 billion government-funded ‘Great British Insulation Scheme’ and answers frequently asked questions.

How does the Great British Insulation Scheme work?

Simon: The scheme works by obligating energy suppliers to help customers reduce their heating bills by installing energy efficiency measures such as loft and cavity wall insulation. The cost of this will be covered in full through the scheme if all the criteria are met.

Who qualifies for the scheme?

Simon: You will qualify for free insulation if:

1 Your home is in Council Tax band A - D

2 Your home’s EPC (Energy Performance Certificate) is rated D - G

3 Your home requires either cavity wall or loft insulation. The scheme will allow you to either have cavity wall insulation or loft insulation for free. It will only cover one or the other. Your cavities should be empty or your loft insulation less than 100mm deep (height of joists) The scheme is not means tested, and, if all the qualifying criteria are met, is completely free.

What types of insulation are available?

Simon: You may be able to get support to install:

• cavity wall insulation

• solid wall insulation (internal or external)

• loft insulation

• flat or pitched roof insulation

• room-in-roof insulation

Do privately rented properties qualify?

Simon: Yes. The scheme is available to rental properties, but the EPC (Energy Performance Certificate) criteria is limited to D – E

How can I access the scheme?

Simon: You can contact an approved installer like FlameCare and they will undertake a survey to assess your eligibility. All installers under the Great British Insulation Scheme must be TrustMark-accredited and will have a registration number. FlameCare’s TrustMark registration number is 3368710. To give consumers additional peace of mind, FlameCare is also Qualitymark accredited. All Qualitymark Accredited Installers can provide consumers with a free 25-year Insurance Backed Guarantee

What if I don’t know the EPC rating?

Simon: An approved installer like FlameCare can organise this for you and provide you with a certificate. You will then know if you are likely to be eligible.

When does the scheme to come to an end?

Simon: April 2026

CHESS CLUB

celebrates its centenary

The Chesterfield Chess Club’s first-team captain, Martin Howard, looks at the highlights of its first 100 years.

ON Monday, September 22, 1924, Chesterfield Chess Club was inaugurated at a meeting chaired by a Chesterfield war hero, LieutenantColonel Victor Robinson. The Mayor of Chesterfield, Alderman William Edmund Wakerly, a local solicitor, was appointed President. The first club night was held on October 6 that year at the Station Hotel (later renamed the Chesterfield Hotel and recently demolished).

Col Robinson had an elder brother, Robert, who was born in Brampton in 1886. Robert was an exceptionally talented chess player. Unlike Victor, Robert did not join the family business but chose an academic career.

At the time the Chess Club was formed, he was Professor of Chemistry at Manchester University. Nevertheless, he continued his ties with Chesterfield and took part in club activities whenever he visited the area. On December 7, 1925, Robert took on 19 members at the same time at the Station Hotel, and won 15 games, drawing one and losing only three, including one against his younger brother Victor. Robert had a stellar academic career, winning the Nobel prize for Chemistry in 1947. He became President of the British Chess

Above: Joe Hooton, club champion in 1955.

Federation in 1950. In 1973 he wrote a book on chess with the former North of England Champion, Raymond Edwards, called ‘The Art and Science of Chess”.

However, it was Victor who was the driving force behind the establishment of Chesterfield Chess Club. He served in the First World War and was awarded the Military Cross three times. In 1945 he became chairman of Robinson & Sons Ltd. Although this family business manufactured surgical dressings and cardboard boxes; it also produced ‘Portland’ pocket chess sets which were made from stiff card and were popular with people who played chess by correspondence.

Chess continued in Chesterfield for a short time after World War Two broke out. An AGM was held on December 16, 1940, but had to be abandoned when the air raid sirens sounded. Thereafter there was little chess activity until October 1945 when Victor Robinson was elected President.

Victor was passionate about encouraging youngsters to learn chess. In 1950 he organised a Schools’ Chess league in Chesterfield. The first winners were Chesterfield School and Victor presented them with the ‘Robinson’ trophy.

In its early years, the club played

matches only against other Derbyshire clubs. It was the first winner of the High Peak Vase in 1947. That same year the club applied to join the Sheffield Chess Association. It enjoyed immediate success, being quickly promoted to the first division. The club quickly established itself as one of the strongest in the region by winning the Sheffield League in 1952, 1953 and 1954.

The 1960s and 1970s were barren years for the club and in 1977 it was relegated from the first division for the first and only time. The club bounced back the following year. In 1990 the club won both the Sheffield and Derbyshire first divisions.

Following Victor’s death in 1972, Joe Hooton of Old Brampton was elected President. Joe was a member of the club for more than 60 years. He was President of Derbyshire Chess Association and captained the County chess team. He died in 1994. Sadly, he did not live to see the club’s greatest triumph when, in 2012, it broke all records by winning 15 of its 16 matches in the Sheffield League.

Above: The founding members in 1924.

Left: Robert Robinson was an exceptionally talented chess player. At the time the club was formed, he was Professor of Chemistry at Manchester University. Nevertheless, he took part in club activities whenever he visited the area. He became President of the British Chess Federation in 1950.

Right: A recent club night at the Red Lion, Brimington.

The pandemic put a stop to over-theboard chess. During this period, the club lost its President Mike Johnson to Covid-19. Mike had been President from 2003 until his death in 2021 and made a massive contribution to chess locally.

Chess saw a boom in popularity during lockdown, with many people playing chess online. In April 2024, as part of its centenary celebrations, the club organised a chess tournament for local schools. Pupils from Outwood Academy, Brookfield Community School, St. Mary’s Catholic High School and Netherthorpe School competed for a trophy donated by the club in memory of Mike Johnson.

The pupils found that playing over the board much more satisfying than playing online. The standard of play was high with the result in the balance until the very end; with Netherthorpe School the eventual winners. The trophy was presented by club President Andy Mort, with every participant receiving a certificate.

Following Covid-19, the club has slowly revived and is once again flourishing. It has won the Derbyshire first division for the past two years and has attracted new members.

The club meets from 7.30pm every Thursday upstairs at the Red Lion in Brimington. Players of all abilities are welcome.

Food Hall / Deli

JUST GOOD, FRESH FOOD!

SET within the magnificent Dunston Hall Estate on the outskirts of Chesterfield, just off the A61 and only a matter of ten minutes from Beauchief, is the newest initiative from owners, David and Lynsey Harrison.

The Food Hall/Deli, which opened its doors for the first time on 1st August 2024, offers a ‘one-of-a-kind’ experience. This is where the highest quality produce, passion for great food, and retail come together in spectacular style.

Since opening, the Food Hall/ Deli has certainly gone down a storm with locals, visitors, and tourists alike. A ‘must visit’ for genuine ‘foodies’, dining connoisseurs, delicatessen

cognoscenti, chefs, would-be cooks, and anyone dipping their toe into the water in the world of cuisine, the Food Hall/Deli is certainly a Horn of Amalthea.

The Food Hall/Deli stocks all manner of locally sourced, fresh and seasonal produce – from vegetables and fruit to meats, fish, home-made pies, quiche, and sausage rolls, cheese, charcuterie, antipasti, salads, patisserie and cakes, as well as beers, wines, chutneys, pickles, and jams. Everything on display is of premium quality and prime pedigree.

Foodies love to browse for exciting treats and speciality ingredients, and they won’t be disappointed here! The shelves are stocked high with the absolute best regional and seasonal produce from known provenance – wherever possible within a 40-mile radius.

Visitors can make their way along the food and delicatessen counter and order freshly prepared food to eat outside within the stunning grounds of the arboretum or take it away to enjoy at home. Sandwiches, light bites, lunches, pastas, breakfasts, afternoon teas, street foods, and themed specials are all be available on site – lovingly prepared and curated by the team of chefs working in the bespoke kitchens upstairs. All the food is natural, healthy, and of prime quality.

An Aladdin’s Cave of local

Open

produce and unusual titbits, the Food Hall/Deli is a modern version of the traditional European delicatessen with a twist of eatery added in for good measure.

The licensed drinks offering pays homage to the amazing array of local brewers, distillers, and suppliers. Nowadays, not only can highly quaffable ales be sourced locally, but wines, gins, whiskeys, rums, and vodkas are all on the nearby radar.

Why not come and taste the difference?

WEDDINGS, GARDEN CENTRE, BISTRO, AND FOOD HALL/DELI

DATING back to 1576, the idyllic and charming Dunston Hall, with breathtaking views from its stunning grounds, is the ideal backdrop for any occasion. It would be hard to find a venue anywhere that encapsulates such a wide variety of experiences and opportunities as Dunston Hall. From fairytale weddings to bespoke events, from a delicious deli and food hall to a magnificent bistro, and, to cap it all, one of the best stocked and meticulously kept garden centres in the area, Dunston Hall has the lot!

TRANSFORM

DUNSTON HALL INTO YOUR FAIRYTALE WEDDING VENUE

With uninterrupted privacy and exclusive access to the

Hall and grounds, Dunston Hall is an idyllic venue for creating a fairytale wedding.

The Hall retains the character and rustic charm of its original sixteenth century features, whilst adding the luxuries of highquality contemporary living, the Hall has been converted into an exclusive-use wedding and bespoke events venue.

Here, weddings can be whatever you want them to be. Whether you envision an entirely indoor celebration, a sprawling outdoor event, or a harmonious blend of both, your dreams really can come true. From a cosy haven for more intimate gatherings, more formal ceremonies, or unique thematic experiences, nothing is out of bounds.

Nestled at the core of this captivating venue lie the exquisitely furnished Garden Room for the wedding ceremony

and The Stables for the reception seating up to 120 people. The Hall can accommodate 23 people in 10 stunning ensuite bedrooms.

DUNSTON HALL GARDEN CENTRE –QUINTESSENTIAL, ENCHANTING, AND VIBRANT

Imagine wandering through aisles brimming with plants and lush foliage, your senses enveloped by the earthy scent of fresh soil and the vibrant colours of blooming flowers. Imagine Dunston Hall Garden Centre.

Here, you’ll find an enchanting display of horticultural plants – probably the largest selection you’ll find 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. Help and advice is always on tap here and the staff are only too willing to share their expertise to enhance every gardening experience. With long-serving members of staff boasting a vast depth of knowledge at their fingertips, help and advice always at hand.

THE DELIGHTFUL BISTRO

Whilst moseying around the garden centre, let’s not forget the joy of stumbling upon the magnificent bistro nestled amidst the greenery, perfect for a relaxing break with a cuppa and maybe a slice of cake. But the bistro offers so much more than that. From breakfasts to lite bites, from sandwiches, salads, and paninis to full-blown meals, and from afternoon teas to a scrummy piece of cake with cream, every level of appetite and preference can be catered for.

Gluten-free options, as well as a good array of vegetarian and vegan options feature prominently on the menu.

CARPETS

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 a month ago

Great service from Steve at Holywell Carpets. Friendly & 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

Honour for local stained glass artist

A DERBYSHIRE stained glass artist has had her work selected for a prestigious international festival in the West Midlands.

Jane Littlefield (pictured), of Great Longstone, is showing her piece ‘Alter to Woodwose’ work at the British Glass Biennale being hosted by the International Festival of Glass in Stourbridge until September 28.

Jane, a member of the Society of Designer Craftsman, uses traditional stained glass techniques to make small artworks that are inspired by the myths, legends and landscape of the Peak District.

Restoring medieval church windows

SOME of the region’s rarest medieval stained glass windows have safely completed a 200mile trip to Somerset for their restoration.

Dronfield Parish Church will now be without three breathtaking windows, dating back to the 13th century,  for the

next 12 months as the work is completed.

The windows in the Grade I-listed building have suffered major pigment loss since they were partly conserved in the 1970s and 1980s in an operation that included protecting them with Perspex which masked their true colour. The three windows containing medieval glass are now being conserved and the Perspex removed.

The £179,541 project is funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund. The grant is also funding research into the church’s history and the development of interpretation material to open up the building’s fascinating past to a wider audience.

Volunteers are being recruited and trained to give guided tours to visitors as part of the project.

Charity to mark 50th anniversary with Gala Dinner

CITIZENS Advice North East Derbyshire is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year.

It’s a community-based charity providing free, independent advice across North East Derbyshire and Bolsover Districts and its 27 staff and 22 volunteers have a wealth of experience.

The focus of its celebrations is a black-tie Gala Dinner on November 8 at Chesterfield FC stadium.

In the run-up to the gala dinner, Citizens Advice North East Derbyshire will be selling raffle tickets with a number of exciting prizes on offer kindly donated by local businesses.

The evening will start with a welcome drink followed by a threecourse meal and disco. The raffle will be drawn during the night..

Past and present members of staff and volunteers, as well as the general public are cordially invited. Ticket booking is available at https://citizensadvicened.org. uk/2024/50th-anniversary-gala-tickets/ or by emailing events@nedcab.org.uk

Markham Vale – 20 years old

FROM a former colliery site to a contemporary business hub housing 70 businesses supporting more than 2,700 jobs, Markham Vale is celebrating turning 20.

A joint venture between Derbyshire County Council and property developer HBD, part of Henry Boot, the 200-acre scheme – situated off M1 junction 29a –is centred around what was the mostly derelict Markham Colliery site and has been transformed into a prime business location.

From local start-ups like a gin distillery and a car body repair shop to large occupiers such as Great Bear Logistics, and medium-sized marketing agencies such as Noonah, the site has become a hub of diverse economic activity.

Markham Vale has also fostered a sense of community and remembrance through the ‘Walking Together’ memorial as a lasting tribute to men who lost their lives in mining disasters at the site in 1937, 1938 and 1973. Weaving through the site from the former pithead to the village of Duckmanton, the memorial features 106 individual steel statues – one for each of the men who died.

Salon up for 10 awards!

THE team at Matlock salon Aspire Creative have been shortlisted in 10 categories at the prestigious Salon Awards 2024.

The Salon Awards honour hairdressing professionals and salons at a local level, making it the only national competition where entries are judged regionally.

Aspire Creative has made it to the finals in the following categories: Best Salon, Best Customer Experience, Best Colour Salon, Best Salon for Hair Extensions, and Best Salon Team. Also, talented team members have also been recognised: Jamie Hadleigh is shortlisted for both Creative Image of the Year and Extension Artist of the Year; Lily Slater is up for Colourist of the Year; Gracie Clark for the Future Talent Award; and Megan Lees for Stylist of the Year.

Coun Ashley Orwin, joint owner, said: “We’re buzzing that the salon has smashed the shortlist this year, but it’s the personal achievements of the individuals that make me burst with pride!”

Jamie Hadleigh, joint owner, said: “Bring on the Awards Night in November! It’s one of our favourite events of the year as a team.”

Salon Awards are now so big the awards ceremonies will take place across three dates: two in London; and November 9 at the Hilton Hotel in Manchester, where the Aspire Creative team are going.

The salon opened at Matlock Green in late 2020, then moved to Bank Road last year.

Above: The Aspire Creative team, from left, Jamie Hadleigh (creative director), Megan Lees (senior creative), Gracie Clark (graduate creative), Ameliah Ambrose (apprentice), Faye Ellis (beauty therapist), Chris Cooper (creative stylist), Sian Kemp (aesthetician), Rachel Feltham (permanent makeup artist), Lily Slater (creative stylist) and Coun Ashley Orwin (salon manager).

Above: This parish church window has gone from Dronfield to Somerset.

1 Frances, it’s about being cunning!” (10)

8 Canal boat that could start to smoke? (7)

14 Ten neat patterns all made just for her (7)

18 How to dwell in Rio when you are utterly determined (4-6)

7 Now, I have a strange version of the US statesman (5)

Criteria to eat out and about in the clouds? (5)

Literati, biassed about bone (5)

The stuff of comedy in a Bohemian café, right? (5)

3 Fling your hat away to the window, over a door (8)

5 Resentment at unattainable spur, with gear so designed (4,6

6 Ohio city, producing the “Actinic” Inn (10)

9 Thankful, for just a load of ash? (8)

2 Back from the war and sore (3)

4 Near the insight with its bits removed (4)

10 Grave start to being a tomboy (4)

12 Iran’s strange weather feature (4)

15 Merit just a big teapot in the report (4)

17 Grass growing round Salinger’s catcher? (3)

ACROSS

8 ATM hopelessly awry at the museum (7)

10 After Yoko, it’s the best bid (3)

11 Sweet, but no way is it tiny (3)

12 Release unstained sand that’s swept away (5)

13 Oldest, yet blandest in monochrome (7)

14 Belper to the right of this CD in truth (well maybe) (9)

16 Swan having a whole bread roll (3) 17Anarchistic part of the curve (3)

19 Runner with a mop-head after a bunch of women (5)

21 Sort of shed where Adam brews his ale? (5)

22 It used to be in a good proportion (3)

23 Liveliest bit of a falsehood (3)

24 Milton could see about our sedimentary stuff! (9)

28 Place in Derby chewing over the pros and cons of no cars (7)

29 Brindley, to his friends, using jasmine in off (5)

30 Use, they say, something bridal (5)

31 Push out the doubter, he’s wrong! (7)

Name:

Prize Crossword

1 Jedediah, was he the spinning industry ‘proper’? (6)

2 The mother of all our hills? (3,3)

3 Young flyer with ring tones (6)

4 It’s how slang evolves where dogs are on trial (8)

5 Amber valley village with some corset or other? (10)

6 Rare bowl manufactured in hamlet W of Sheffield (5,3)

7 Alfreton and Belper between them have ten ways to chirp (8)

9 We have no middle ground in sorrow (3)

15 Already led out of this valley (6,4)

18 Lower, near Ripley, a fashion centre with a broken ashtray (8)

19 Owl flying about in a holy village (8)

20 Caramel and raspberry bits of the Roman castle (8)

25 North East village mistaken for a National Trust moor (6)

26 I’m Sumo wrestling for the heaviest metal (6)

27 Follow on, wrapped in green suede (5)

29 Stone that flies? (3)

We will give a prize of £25 to a randomly-drawn correctly completed crossword. Cut out the completed puzzle and send by September 18th, 2024, to: Bannister Publications Limited, Office 2A Market Hall, Market Hall, Chesterfield, Derbyshire, S40 1AR. The solutions for the August 2024 crossword can be found on page 91 of this issue.

Crossword by Prof Rebus

MUSICAL COMMEMORATION OF THE 1984-85 MINERS’ STRIKE

In this 40th anniversary year of the 1984-85 miners’ strike, Leonie Martin talks to Jonathan Francis about the forthcoming premier of his latest groundbreaking musical composition: a tribute to the lost mining communities of north Derbyshire.

FORTY years on from the 1984-85 miners’ strike, the death of the mining industry coupled with the demise of heavy engineering has had a deep, long-lasting effect. But nothing is lost without a fight. This fight – and the stories of those who fought – will be commemorated on October 12 at the premier of a new piece of work written by Chesterfield’s own Jonathan Francis. Performed at the Church of Saint Mary & All Saints (The Crooked Spire), A Northern Requiem will feature The Rose Choir from Chesterfield Studios, and Harlequin

Jonathan Francis, who has written A Northern Requiem.

Picture by Ian Boler.

The last time the Rose Choir and Harlequin Brass got together to perform at Chesterfield’s Crooked Spire Church.

Brass, one of the country’s leading brass ensembles, with accomplished local soloists.

Some fifteen years ago, Jonathan Francis (now Musical Director for the Rose Choir at Chesterfield Studios and also Artistic Director at Rose Hill Arts Centre) was working with pupils at a local secondary school.  It shocked him to discover that many of the children knew little or nothing about one of the most significant cultural moments in local living memory – the miners’ strike of 1984. ‘What is coal mining?’ some of them even asked him!

Jonathan said: “Within just 25 years, a key part of our social history seemed to have been lost from memory. Then, as I drove around the old coalfields around Chesterfield, I began to notice that many of the landmarks associated with the local mines and their communities have since been replaced with characterless modern warehouses and industrial estates. It’s as if the whole history is being systematically erased.”

going right to the top in the music world playing at The Royal Albert Hall. This cultural opportunity has all but gone now – restricted to those from more privileged backgrounds.

“Within just 25 years, a key part of our social history seemed to have been lost from memory.”

“Everything has gone. There is talk of ‘The North’ being ‘Levelled Up’, but to me this sounds like robbing someone of an entire house, then turning up forty years later and offering them a new microwave in compensation. I wanted to represent through music what people actually went through, how this differed from what was shown by the media at that time, and to celebrate our lost social and cultural heritage. The people of north Derbyshire whose lives were irrevocably changed, and the fight they put up on behalf of their communities, deserves to be celebrated.

“There was no plan for what would happen to these communities, these families, these individuals. Not only their collieries, but their pubs, shops and clubs were forced to close. Brass bands were a big part of these communities. The average collier in a brass band had the opportunity not only of playing for his community, but also the chance of

“A friend once said to me: write about what you know. I do not come from a mining family, but I am deeply rooted in our Derbyshire community, and often drive through these once thriving communities with a deep sense of sadness and rage. I felt compelled to respond through the medium of my own profession in the arts.

“I had initially decided I wanted to compose a musical about the story of the miners and the demise of their communities for a 30th anniversary event back in 2014. Then, for various reasons, this was put on

botton left: Police officers move towards the picket lines at the Orgreave Coking Plant, near Sheffield, in June 1984 –which flying picket Steve Brunt, from north Derbyshire, said ‘became a battlefield’.

hold. The longer I left it, the more I started to doubt if I was up to the challenge of writing the script, music and lyrics for this musical. Time passed. Lockdown presented an unexpected chunk of free time to begin work on the musical, but family and work commitments took over.

“Then Harlequin Brass got in touch to ask if I would like to do a concert with them for the 175th anniversary of the death of George Stephenson in 2023: something representative of the Industrial North. We

Picture by Ian Boler.

Above: The Rose Hill Arts Centre on Saltergate, Chesterfield. Picture by Ian Boler. Opposite

also discussed ideas around the 1984-85 Miners’ Strike – perhaps commemorating this with music from Brassed Off. This also ended up on the back burner, but it expanded my original idea: instead of a piece of musical theatre, I would write a Cantata (choral work) to commemorate not only our coal mining heritage but also its impact within Northern communities.

“The Derbyshire Miners Association was once based just down the road from our new Rose Hill Arts Centre on Saltergate (RHAC) and Arthur Scargill himself spoke in Eastwood Hall.  Though the industry is no more, the shadows still loom large across town.

“Yes, this piece of work represents anger and elements of violence, because without those it wouldn’t be authentic. Many of these communities never recovered. Skilled jobs were never replaced: mining work involved risk and muck, but this bonded communities under a shared set of circumstances, forging an identity which was ripped from beneath their feet.

‘A Northern Requiem for choir and brass is based on the text of the Catholic Requiem Mass interwoven with poetry from and about the 1984-5 Miners’ Strike.  It celebrates the brave workers who stood against job losses, the women who fought against pit closures and commemorates

the communities who lost their way of life. It laments what has gone before and offers hope for what is to come.

“The concept is so huge it can easily overtake the need to just begin. I tend to write the end section of a new work first, then the beginning. Different parts came together more easily than others. For example, the motif for one movement wrote itself in my head while I was walking my son to school one day! Presently I’m working on the Dies irae (Day of Wrath) sequence: which will represent the Battle of Orgreave.

He added: “It becomes a more collaborative process once the singers and

the musicians get involved. I get a better sense of what needs to be fine-tuned. There will be 10 brass players and three percussionists from Harlequin Brass; Chesterfield organist George Parsons, a former King’s College Organ Scholar; Chesterfield Studios’ own Rose Choir; and several local soloists including mezzo soprano Louise Collette and Royal Philharmonic violinist Morven Bryce.”

Plans for the concert are expanding by the week: “the intention was for it to ‘launch’ our newly-constituted Rose Hill Arts Centre (RHAC), formerly the Rose Hill United Reformed Church (adjacent to Chesterfield Studios). As word has got out, we soon realised we would need to move the concert to a bigger venue: The Crooked Spire (Saint Mary & All Saints Church).’

Jonathan added: “We have invited many local dignitaries and some of the miners and women who fought against the pit closures. In addition, we will also be showing an exhibition about the Miners’ Strike which is currently doing the rounds in Derbyshire. Tickets are selling fast so if you’d like to join us, don’t leave it to the last minute. We look forward to seeing you on October 12!” Editor’s Note: For further information about Rose Hill Arts Centre or to purchase tickets for A Northern Requiem, go to: www. RHAC.art or email info@rhac.art

Above: Mezzo soprano Louise Collett will be performing in the requiem. Picture by Ian Boler.

INDEPENDENT EDUCATION

WHY INDEPENDENT EDUCATION GIVES CHILDREN THE EDGE

WITH independent schools reporting a surge in enrolment, more and more parents are showing their support for the value they offer to their children. Every single UK region has experienced an increase in independent-school pupil numbers year on year, according to the umbrella body which oversees the sector, the Independent Schools Council (ISC). There are now about 2,500 independent schools in the UK.

So, what are the benefits of independent schools, which are so attractive for aspiring parents?

THE PATHWAY TO A TOP UNIVERSITY

Attending an independent school increases the likelihood

Birkdale School

Birkdale is a happy community where children thrive, individuals develop and journeys begin.

From their earliest years, our pupils acquire an appetite for knowledge, strong personal values, a sense of responsibility and the ambition to be the best they can be, all strong foundations for life.

An exceptionally high level of pastoral care together with a strong Christian ethos underpins daily life, and in this caring and supportive environment pupils flourish as they explore the opportunities open to them. Excellence is evident throughout the school, not least in the resources and outstanding teaching by professional and dedicated staff. With such close guidance

of attending a top university. In fact, many independent schools have close to 100% of pupils getting into their first-choice university.

REDUCED CLASS SIZE

There have been many educational studies that show that the smaller the class size the higher an average grade the pupils get. This is because a smaller class size gives each pupil more one-toone time with the teacher.

ENHANCED OPPORTUNITIES

One key advantage of independent school education is the enriched educational experience that pupils obtain. This is thanks to numerous additional initiatives, such

as extracurricular activities, placement courses, holiday clubs, or enriching trips. In addition, independent schools can create their own curriculum. This means that teachers’ expertise and lessons are not limited by strict boundaries. Opportunities to participate in sport, music, and drama are second to none.

SAFE LEARNING ENVIRONMENT

Independent schools are renowned to have high standards of discipline and respect between staff and pupils. The lower ratio of staff to pupils makes it a lot more manageable to control school grounds. Most independent schools have a strong feeling of community which nourishes

the children’s social skills and encourages good behaviour.

PARENTAL PARTICIPATION

Independent schools are constructed around open communication between the school and the parents.

EXCELLENT RESOURCES

Most independent schools have exemplary facilities and resources to support their pupils’ learning throughout the school - from well-equipped, hi-tech classrooms and science laboratories to multiple sports facilities. Access to highquality resources provides pupils with the opportunity to discover their interests, strengths and weaknesses.

and support, pupils develop intellectual curiosity, enjoy lessons, gain excellent examination results and are well prepared for the future. In class and beyond the classroom, life at Birkdale is full. On the sports field and through a range of extra-curricular opportunities in music, drama, academic societies

and outdoor pursuits, talents are identified and nurtured with every pupil encouraged to build on their strengths and be the best they can be. Our children emerge as self-assured, interesting and considerate young people, enriched by a diversity of experiences and equipped with the skills

and knowledge to meet the challenges of life head on. Discover Birkdale for yourself either by attending one of our Open Mornings, or booking a one-to-one visit where we can show you around the Prep or the Senior School, meet the Head and experience Birkdale more personally at a time to suit you.

Mount

St Mary’s College

Discover Your Potential at Mount St Mary’s College – an independent Day and Boarding School for all children aged 3 – 18.

The Mount is committed to providing exceptional academic experiences. With curriculum experts, students receive in-depth teaching across a wide range of disciplines. The emphasis on pastoral care alongside academic progression ensures each student’s wellbeing is prioritized. Children are seen as an individual, addressing their

unique strengths and needs.

Beyond the classroom, remarkable grounds provide children with ample space and freedom to flourish, enveloped in the beautiful Derbyshire countryside, fields and natural woodland. The Olympic-sized athletics track, swimming pools and sports pitches, including rugby, cricket, football, netball, and hockey are all

supported by expert coaching from the dedicated staff.

If sport is the heart of the Mount, music provides the spirit. The school offers an array of musical and theatre coaching with regular performances and concerts throughout the school year.

Supporting the classroom timetables, co-curricular activities caters to all interests

and talents. From chess to robotics, sports, and crafting, students can explore their passions and develop new skills outside the classroom, enriching their educational journey. Visit www.msmcollege. com or contact Admissions on 01246 433388 to register for their Autumn Open Events.

BARLBOROUGH HALL SCHOOL

Discover More at Barlborough Hall School –an Independent School for All Children Aged 3 – 11.

Barlborough Hall School is delighted to invite families to their Open Week on the 7th – 11th October, for a first-hand glimpse into the exceptional educational experiences awaiting students from early years education through to Year 6.

We are a Jesuit, coeducational independent day school and nursery for children aged three to 11. We work to inspire a love of learning from the moment your child joins us, to the day they leave. From the classroom, to the sports track, from the extracurricular, to the great outdoors, there’s more to discover at Barlborough Hall School.

Embodying our Jesuit

principles of seeing your child as a whole person is fundamental to the way we care for all children who attend our school. Each pupil is celebrated and encouraged in their individual strengths, allowing them to grow and thrive to the best of both their academic abilities and their extra-curricular interests.

Our facilities mean children get to explore a vast range of subjects, from science in our very own lab, to swimming lessons in the school pool, from studying nature in our new outdoor classroom, to PE in our own dance studio. Our pupils perform to a high

SHEFFIELD HIGH SCHOOL FOR GIRLS

Sheffield High School for Girls’ students celebrate A-Level results day

School for Girls GDST, one of the leading independent schools in Yorkshire for girls aged 4-18, have celebrated an outstanding set of A-Level results this year. This year at Sheffield Girls’, 27% of grades were A*, compared to the national average of 9%, 59% of grades were A*-A, 82% were A*-B, with a 100% pass rate across the board. Ten students also achieved three or more A*s, which is 12% of the cohort.

The school also celebrated students getting into a diverse and varied range of degree courses. Five students will be going to courses at Oxbridge with a further 36 students moving onto competitive courses at Russell Group institutions. The school has also seen an uptake in students pursuing STEM courses,

academic standard with their assessment results exceeding National Averages last year.

Whilst we are always striving for excellence, our school is a place full of laughter. Every corridor, every classroom and every playground is full with the sound of happiness. The children’s smiles are infectious and they are what make Barlborough Hall a truly wonderful place to be.

The school is a few minutes’ drive from Junction 30 of the

M1. Worksop and Rotherham are 20 minutes by car. It is the preparatory school to Mount St Mary’s College and is true to the Jesuit principles of a Catholic education. We truly believe the best way for you to decide if Barlborough Hall School is for you, is to come and see for yourself. Discover more at our open week from 7th – 11th October. Register now at www.msmcollege. com or call our admissions team on 01246 810511.

particularly in maths and engineering, with six students embarking on engineering degrees.

The school saw 89% of Maths grades awarded A*-A (compared with a national average of 42%), and 100% of Further Maths grades awarded A*-A.

This cohort’s results are amongst some of the best ever achieved at Sheffield Girls’, as the school retains its position as one of the top independent schools in the North. These results are even more impressive as national mark schemes and grade boundaries return to preCovid levels with an expectation of decline in top results, with Sheffield Girls’ students achieving 59% A*-A grades compared to the national average of 28%, and the independent school average of 49%.

Head, Nina Gunson, said: “Congratulations to the class

of 2024! We wish you all the best of luck as you embark on the next exciting stage of your academic journey.”

The atmosphere was jovial on August 22 in the Senior School hall, with students delighted to finally open their results. Grace Mitchell, who received three straight A*s, will be going to the University of Central Lancashire to study Veterinary Medicine and Surgery. This year she has balanced her academic studies with a busy extra-curricular and sports schedule, responsibilities as a sports captain, as well as a position on the Head Girl’s Team. Grace is also the youngest ever Youth Advisor for the FA, a position she has balanced with her studies.

Reflecting on her results,

Above: A-Level Students at Sheffield Girls’ GDST celebrate their results with Head Nina Gunson, Director of Sixth Form Chris Spick and Deputy of Sixth Jane McGregor.

Grace commented: “I’m really happy and really excited for the next year. I just want to say a massive thank you to Sheffield Girls’ for everything and for all the opportunities I’ve got and for helping me to get to the next step.”

The A-Level results achieved by Sheffield Girls’ students this year reflect the school’s ongoing commitment to academic excellence achieved in a warm, kind, nurturing environment, and parents and teachers alike are all delighted at their achievements.

S. Anslem’s

For over 135 years, S. Anselm’s has been the Prep in the Peak - for boys and girls aged between 3 and 13, for day and boarding, for learning and nurturing for life.

At the heart of Bakewell, S. Anselm’s is a warm, nurturing and supportive community where children can be children, discover who they are and be themselves with unrivalled facilities like our innovation centre, sports hall, astro pitches, swimming pool and theatre. We offer the highest standards of education,

combined with adventures, experiences and excitement that enriches pupils today and prepares them for whatever tomorrow holds. They emerge

self-assured, interesting and considerate young people ready for their next steps. Whatever the future holds for your child, we know that

S. Anselm’s is the best place for the journey to begin. Discover our school for yourself by booking a one-to-one visit at a time to suit you.

While waiting at the traffic lights at Horwich End in the High Peak, observant drivers may have noticed a shop front filled with portraits of the rich and famous as well as those from everyday life. This is the home and studio of Tracey Coverley, whose remarkable stitched artworks are attracting attention from buyers far and wide, writes Steve Brown.

THE path to her present life has been full of twists and turns, career changes, fortunate coincidences and meetings with household names in the world of entertainment. They say that every picture tells a story: never was that more true here!

school in St Helens on a two-year foundation course, as suggested by her school careers advisor who recognised her talent.

Tracey’s mother and father originally hailed from the High Peak and it was at this time that they decided to return to the area but she decided to remain behind in St Helens, a brave 16-year-old living in the YWCA but doing the things she loved on her course.

“I was like a sponge,” she says,

“we

did everything,

paintings,

Tracey and her twin sister Theresa were born in the Outer Hebrides into a military family with a father in the Royal Signals. After a nomadic early childhood, Tracey`s family eventually settled in Newton-le-Willows where she spent most of her school life. This was the Thatcher era when the prospects for many school leavers were limited and defined as YTS schemes but for the young Tracey, who loved her art and had made her own clothes out of any cloth she could cut up the goal was to go to art

sculptures, I loved the lot.”

“I was like a sponge,” she says, “we did everything, paintings, sculptures, I loved the lot.” She was accepted onto a Fine Arts degree at Loughborough University. She liked the fact that this course didn’t pin her down to one discipline, there was room to grow there… where stitching could eventually become a painting.

After three years at Loughborough, she graduated in 1991 but her personal preference was to leave the academic life there and to deal with her debts by getting a job; art would have to take a back seat for a while, confined to the evenings and

Left: Her depiction of Vivienne Westwood has proved a best seller for Tracey.

Tracey Coverley in her Horwich End shop.

leisure times. During the next year or so, she was “on the dole” as well as time spent with the National Trust in Edale working on drystone walls until British Rail (as it then was) came along looking to recruit signallers in the locality. After training at signalling school in Manchester, she became a signaller at the busy Chinley signal box, working for the next thirteen years.

However, art still had a place even there as, during periods of inactivity on shifts, she made dresses and other clothes for colleagues, friends and customers and her extra mural efforts even extended to making a five-foot tall giraffe out of papier mache! She then moved into signalling standards and safety briefings for her signalling colleagues in the North West, which at least put an end to the shift working but did see her spending more time travelling, particularly when Network Rail began to

centralise and support many functions such as hers in a central HQ at Milton Keynes.

Faced with this and being more disillusioned with the way she felt her role was headed she, in her own words, “walked away with no plan and no severance payment.” Tracey had to quickly find another source of income and turned to her love of stitching and making things for others even though “she could have worked in a supermarket.” She started sewing and making doll sets of well-known music groups and the image of one of these, of her idol, Paul Weller, and his group The Jam, went viral on social media.

Paul’s driver spotted these, bought some of her work and as a result, Tracey was invited down south to meet Paul himself! He recommended Tracey and her work to his friends and even commissioned her to produce a doll of David Bowie for his wife! However the dolls couldn’t last forever, particularly as they took so long to make, so she continued with her stitching and sewing with a diversification into

Left: Amy Winehouse, as stitched by Tracey. Below: Bob Mortimer gets the Tracey treatment!

cushions and portraits made from layers of cloth. The cushions required a lot of careful stitching as they needed to be robust so, again, this was time-consuming and it was her sister who suggested that perhaps she should consider putting her stitched portraits in a picture frame as these would be protected behind glass and not need as much tidying up. This idea proved to be a winner, all starting with a portrait of the famous comedic actor Peter Sellers, and now these portraits cover the walls of her studio and the galleries where she exhibits and sells her works.

Much of Tracey’s work is in her preferred monochrome colours although she has used colour selectively elsewhere, depending on the picture and the subject. She starts a work using layers of cloth and creates her subject through cutting away fabric and creating lines and textures through this technique. Her materials can be any sort of cloths, such as recycled, and she is especially fond of nets through which many different layers can be used. “I don’t worry too much about tone,” she says “as I can just stitch over it if necessary!”

Having created her portrait through cutting and shaping the layers she can commence the stitching using just needles and threads, her trusty sewing

machine and a pair of scissors! She likes to complete her portraits one at a time and will try and work through to completion with as few breaks as possible.

For Tracey, the eyes and other special features of the individual/s are key in her portraits; from these many individuals can be instantly recognised despite the unusual medium of stitching and fabrics. “I want people to see my portraits and go wow!” she says: many have undoubtedly done that!

Her portrait of Vivienne Westwood, the famous fashion designer, has been a best seller and the distinctive facial features of Hollywood legend Bette Davis, cigarette in mouth, has been used on the poster advertising Tracey’s most recent exhibition. However she confesses that men, especially older guys, are easier for her to portray than women; “their facial features, wrinkles, etc, give you as an artist more to hang on to!” If you want a great example then see her portrait of some of the iconic Rolling Stones and you will see what I mean!

Lately Tracey has taken to doing her own printing and framing so she can produce more of her works for sale inhouse. Although she has been continuing with portrait commissions, her latest venture is a joint exhibition with friend and fellow artist Jill Kerr called “Birds

Above: Tracey finds older men easier to created than women: Keith Richards and Mick Jagger of The Rolling Stones.

of a Feather”, using birds as subjects where Tracey herself has experimented with using more colours and textures.

Editor’s Note: Tracey’s online sales are through handmadeinhorwichend.com and she exhibits and has works for sale in the Gallery in the Gardens in the Buxton Gardens Pavilion and at The Artful Pigeon Gallery in Glossop; or you can pay her a visit near to those traffic lights at Horwich End.

capsule wardrobe…

Make everyday dressing a breeze with a capsule wardrobe of luxe basics which will stand the test of time, says Amy Norbury.

E all have those days where we stand in front of the wardrobe, declaring we have nothing to wear. Sometimes, no matter how jam-packed our drawers or wardrobes are, nothing goes together, looks or feels right. And wouldn’t it be wonderful on those days to have a curated selection of items which just work?

Enter the capsule wardrobe. The savvy fashionista’s answer to chic style with minimal effort, a good capsule wardrobe brings together a handful of failsafe items which mix and match to create elegant ensembles to suit all occasions.

So how do you create your capsule wardrobe? Well, there are certain timeless essentials that fashion editors the world over swear by, which serve as the cornerstones of a good capsule; those all-occasion staples which you’ll turn to time and time again, whatever your fashion requirements.

When it comes to tops, there are two options which will work wonders for most styles and occasions – the plain white T-shirt and the classic button-down shirt. For T-shirts, look for something with just the right fit, focusing on a hemline and sleeve length which suits your shape. It pays to invest that little bit

4. Glairing black leather loafer, £85, Dune. www.dunelondon.com

more in a piece if it’s something you’ll wear regularly, so check out styles in a more heavyweight material for the longevity factor.

A good shirt will be a wardrobe hero for myriad occasions, and whether you’re a crisp cotton, loose linen or sensual silk kinda gal, a shirt which ticks your style boxes will be something you’ll reach for over and over again. A bright white number oozes effortless elegance and can be dressed up and down with ease, while a classic blue-and-white stripe lends a more playful air to your ensemble.

Moving onto the bottom half, a simple trio will tick all the boxes for every eventuality. Denim is something most of us wear in abundance, but pulling on a favourite pair of jeans is like a fashion comfort blanket –something which never fails to

make us feel good. For capsule dressing, forget the styles du jour and go for a classic; a simple straight-legged style works with everything, and a good pair will last a lifetime.

For dressier occasions, swap the jeans for a tailored trouser in black or off-black, while quality black leggings offer comfort without compromise on style. Team with preppy loafers for office chic or sporty trainers for casual cool.

Complete your capsule with outstanding outerwear; an oversized blazer will give a puttogether air to a more

casual ensemble, while a black leather jacket is a cool-girl favourite. And as we head into the chillier months? A camel trench coat is easy to throw on, pairs perfectly with the rest of your capsule and is a style superhero you’ll reach for, for years to come.

5. Ishana blouse, £52, and straight fit jeans, £59, FatFace.

6. Anyday white T-shirt, £15, John Lewis. www.johnlewis.com

7. Mid-wash straight leg jeans, £19.50, F&F at Tesco

8. Ivory stripe shirt, £55, Oliver Bonas. www.oliverbonas.com

A Culinary Journey At The Riverside

Idyllic and irresistibly quaint, “Rafters” at the Riverside House Hotel is a 14-bedroom Restaurant with Rooms, situated on the river Wye in the picturesque village of Ashford-in-the-Water

THIS Grade II-listed mansion was once the haunt of the upper classes when it served as a shooting lodge for the nearby Chatsworth Estate. Although elegant Georgian features remain, including a grand fireplace and staircase in the reception lobby, things are much more relaxed and friendly these days. The ambience is warm and inviting. Fine dining, it most certainly is. Imaginative, modern, and British.

Local couple John and Alex Hill teamed up with restaurateur and UK top 100 sommelier, Alistair Myers, in the summer of 2020 to take over and fully refurbish the Riverside House Hotel. Alistair, who also owns the nationally recognised threeAA Rosette restaurant, Rafters in Sheffield, has always had a focus on quality, sustainability

and locality which breathes through everything he does.

Rafters at the Riverside is already on the ascent, having been awarded a whole host of awards. These include 5 AA Gold Stars, 2 AA Rosettes, a “Notable Wine List” and a “Breakfast Award” from AA Hospitality.  They were also crowned “Hotel of the Year” at the 2022 Peak District & Derbyshire Tourism Awards.

Rafters at The Riverside boasts three unique dining rooms. The main dining room

seats up to 30 guests and the Range Room is a traditional dining room with the original features of the house. The private dining room is the perfect venue for a private party of 8-14 guests. The hotel consists of two Superior bedrooms, ‘Rafters’ and ‘Kingfisher’, four House Rooms on the 1st floor of the original building and 8 bedrooms in the Garden Wing extension, 4 of which have their own private terrace.

An offering of tasty snacks/ amuse-bouches was presented at the bar, as the culinary journey was about to begin. Cured salmon and sesame taco, with goji berry hot sauce and a posh “cheese on toast” whipped oak smoked cheddar on toasted brioche, with pickled onions and roasted onion ketchup paved the way for the unique tasting experience that was to follow.

The informal, yet smart, staff attire – smart denim, brown brogues, crisp white shirts and professional aprons – keep things inclusive for all.

General Manager, Jamie Fullwood, and Assistant Manager, Carlos Monteiro, possess a fountain of knowledge and experience on the smooth running of a fine dining restaurant, and sommelier, Will Cooper, has at his fingertips an encyclopaedic understanding of all things wine related. This, complemented by the passion and expertise of three top chefs, makes for a culinary match made in heaven.

Rafters at The Riverside offers an enticing three-course à la carte dinner menu as well as a tasting menu. To get a deeper connection with the chef and to sample a more diverse offering, we opted for

the tasting menu. A scrumptious breakfast is also available for non-residents, which is perfect for before or after a healthy walk in the stunning Peak District countryside - with both dogs and walkers most welcome.

“A Taste of Riverside” is the tasting menu with optional wine pairings. This is the ultimate culinary voyage, showcasing the chefs’ extraordinary skills. The tasting menu offers true cooking craftsmanship with intricately prepared cuisine which celebrates the harvest of each season. The exquisite flavours bring together modern flair and traditional British cuisine, with every dish presented immaculately for a treat for all the senses.

A nod to the Steel City’s beloved condiment, Henderson’s Relish, is given in the ‘Hendo’s Butter’ served with slices of warm Black Treacle and Granary bread. Black Treacle’s sweet richness is brilliantly tempered by the sharp notes of spirit vinegar, tamarind, cloves and garlic in the Hendo’s, and chef achieves the butter’s mousseline texture by using the ice cream maker.

Course one – the charred Cornish mackerel with buttermilk, jalapeno, green strawberry, and coriander paired with a ‘Blanc de Noirs’ Polish wine – provided an intelligent and well thought out fusion of flavours. The tour de force was the texture and taste, the freshness of the mackerel balanced with the warmth and spiciness of the jalapeno, complemented with a touch of sweetness from the buttermilk. Notes of strawberry emerged

from both the dish and the wine. The lightly pressed wine offered a colouring and taste associated with a blush Provence style rosé.

Course two –Tempura battered courgette flower stuffed with smoked ricotta, and served with courgette slaw, and finished with a Yuzu and basil broth was paired with an Albarino, Bodegas Ledas 2022, from Rias Biaxas, in Spain. The sweetness and softness of the courgette harmonised perfectly with the crunch of the tempura, with elements of citrus emerging from the Yuzu. The fragrant fruit driven wine was elevated by the sea breeze from this coastal winery. Subtle and delicately created, nothing overpowered this magnificent rainbow of flavours.

Course three – Derbyshire lamb belly, with lamb fat focaccia, lamb confit mayonnaise, Jerusalem artichoke, and roasted garlic emulsion was paired with a Lebanese Chateau Musar 2017, Gaston Hochar, from the Bekka Valley. The lamb was incredibly tender, the richness from the fat providing added comfort, warmth, and flavour. The focaccia offered added bounce. The earthiness and warmth from the wine mirrored and reinforced the flavours from the dish. The flavour cohesion elevated the experience.

Course four – the Creedy Carver duck with fermented honey glaze, baby beetroots, and a Lapsang Souchong sauce, was paired with Lawson’s Hills Pinot Noir, from Marlborough, New Zealand. The tenderness of the duck was balanced beautifully

with the crunch and texture of the fermented honey and tea crust. This was ‘off piste’ in a positive way. Impressive, yet classical. The pinot noir worked wonderfully with this dish. Fresh and light with a depth of fruitiness and notes of plum and cherry, this was the perfect complement.

Course five – Amalfi lemon posset with fresh raspberries and honeycomb offered a harmonious balance of sweet and sharp. Tartness and acidity from the fresh strawberries mingled well with the lightness from the cheesecake and the sugary element of the honeycomb. A prefect palate cleanser after a stunning savoury adventure.

Course six – the ‘Tiramisu’ with mascarpone ice cream, spiced ginger cake, coffee liquor gel, and crystalised hazelnuts was next up. Warmth and sweetness were counterbalanced by the crunch from the hazelnuts with an added kick from the ginger.

The dessert wine was Gutiérrez Colosía Pedro Ximénez from Jerez in Spain. With the grapes being picked late, this deeper and sweeter sherry offered a whole host of notes, including hints of prune, chocolate, raisins, and even liquorice. Absolutely delicious and the ideal pairing for the desserts.

‘The Taste of Riverside’ is a culinary expedition, a journey into an amalgamation and

intermingling of subtle flavours, beautifully harmonised with exquisite skill. It presents a timeline of evolving tastes – each to be savoured and relished. Like any new safari worth its salt, this unforgettable trip will be long remembered after the last morsel of food has been enjoyed and the final sip of wine has been appreciated.

FOR MORE DETAILS:

Breakfast and Brunch: Mon 8.00 - 10.00am, Thurs Sun 8.00 - 11.30am

Afternoon Tea: Thurs - Sat 12.00 - 4.00 pm

Lunch: Sat & Sun 12:30 - 2.30pm

Dinner: Weds, Thurs, Sun 6.30 8:00pm Fri & Sat 6.30 - 8.30pm

Closed: Mon from midday, Tues all day

Rafters at The Riverside Fennel Street

Ashford-in-the-Water

Bakewell

Derbyshire DE45 1QF

T: 01629 814275

riversidehousehotel.co.uk

Heritage Tomato Panzanella Salad with Nasturtium

From Dan Smith, head chef at The Peacock at Rowsley

DAN says that Nasturtium is really easy to grow and this dish is a great way to use the excess leaves which the plant produces. This recipe will serve four people as a starter but can also be served as a side salad with BBQ meats.

Ingredients

400g tomatoes of all different sizes, colours and varieties

2 slices of sourdough bread, torn into chunky pieces

8g baby capers

16g Cabernet or red wine vinegar

Nasturtium flowers and small leaves

Nasturtium pesto

100g Nasturtium leaves

20g pinenuts

20g grated parmesan cheese

1 clove garlic

125g light olive oil

salt to taste

Pickled Shallot Rings

1 banana shallot, peeled and sliced into thin rings

75g white wine vinegar

50g caster sugar

Nasturtium Oil

100g Nasturtium leaves

300g light olive oil

Confit Cherry Tomatoes

100g cherry tomatoes

1 bay leaf

1 sprig of thyme

1 garlic clove

100g light olive oil

Dam Smith was Michelin trained by Tom Aiken, and is passionate about using seasonal quality ingredients.

The Peacock has three AA Rosettes, one of only three restaurants with that accolade in Derbyshire.

Method

Nasturtium Pesto

Blend all the ingredients together in a food processor, then season to taste.

Pickled Shallot Rings

Combine the sugar and vinegar together in a pan and bring to the boil. Place the shallot rings into a bowl and pour over the hot liquid and allow to cool, then drain and discard the liquid.

Nasturtium Oil

Bring a pan of water to the boil, blanch the Nasturtium leaves in the water for 1 minute, the drain and refresh in cold water. Squeeze out any excess water, then blend in a jug blender with the oil

Confit Cherry Tomatoes

Bring a pan of water to the boil and blanch tomatoes for 30-60 seconds.

Refresh in iced water, using a small knife remove the skin. Mix the tomatoes with the remaining ingredients, then place onto a tray. Put the tray into the oven on a low setting and cook for around 2-3 hours until the tomatoes are cooked through but retain their shape.

To Assemble

Cut the tomatoes into all different shapes and sizes then place into a bowl. Toss the torn sourdough in a little of the oil from the confit tomatoes; then grill on a red-hot chargrill. Add the warm bread to the tomatoes with the confit tomatoes, capers, vinegar and Nasturtium oil, add a little salt and mix together. Spread the pesto onto the base of the plates and assemble the tomato mixture on top. Garnish with the nasturium leaves and flowers.

Above: The Peacock at Rowsley is a stunning luxury hotel in the Peak District National Park.

Above: Dan Smith, head chef at The Peacock in Rowsley.

ENJOY A LOCAL ROUTE IN THE YHA FESTIVAL OF WALKING

YHA’S POPULAR MONTH-LONG FESTIVAL OF WALKING RETURNS FOR THE THIRD YEAR TO YOUTH HOSTELS IN THE PEAK DISTRICT SHORTLY (SEPTEMBER 13-OCTOBER 13).

ORGANISED annually by the Matlockbased charity YHA, this national festival – which is funded by Sport England, Pilgrim Trust and Cotswold Outdoor – has a series of guided social walks led by walking experts at two youth hostels in the Peak District.

The free-to-join walks, which are suitable for walkers of all abilities, are taking place at YHA Hartington Hall on Saturday, September 14 and Saturday, October 12 –featured below – and at YHA Youlgrave on Wednesday, September 18. The circular routes start and end at the youth hostels.

All the walks during the festival are free to sign up to, however people are encouraged to make a voluntary donation towards YHA’s Heart of the Community Appeal, which aims to install life-saving defibrillators at every YHA hostel in England and Wales.

In addition to Hartington Hall and

Above:

The guided ‘social walks’ are free to join in the YHA Festival of Walking.

Left: Andrew McCloy, the YHA’s Walks Programme Manager.

Youlgreave, more than 50 YHA hostels are hosting a series of themed walks during the month-long festival. The themed walks focus on health and wellbeing, learning new walking skills, and connecting with nature and heritage.

Seasoned walker Andrew McCloy, YHA’s Walks Programme Manager who is leading the festival, explained: “YHA has long been recognised as the walker’s friend, but we’re keen to get even more people walking, and to benefit from the mental and physical health benefits of this no-cost activity. We know that there are a number of barriers to participation, and we’re using this festival to overcome those blocks to get more people walking.”

A recent study by an outdoor brand,

Helly Hanson, revealed that almost 3 in 10 Brits haven’t participated in any outdoor activities in the past year. Of those people, 45% didn’t know where to go, 33% weren’t sure what equipment they might need, and 53% stated that they have faced financial barriers to participation.

Andrew added: “A number of the festival’s free guided social walks, as well as the easy circular walking routes we’ve devised, require no specialist equipment, just a pair of comfortable shoes, a bottle of water and a possibly a jacket with a hood for the British weather. We just want to get more people active.”

There are more than 40 free social walks to participate in during the festival. “As with previous years, we anticipate high demand for the guided social walks, so I advise people to sign up early,” added Andrew.

As an added incentive, there’s a complimentary cuppa and a piece of cake waiting for everyone back at the hostel when each social walk finishes. All youth hostels also offer free-to-use refill stations where anyone is welcome to pop in yearround and fill their water bottles, have a loo break or use the café facilities.

Walkers who want to enjoy a walking

BERESFORD, WOLFSCOTE AND BIGGIN DALES

(SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 14 & SATURDAY, OCTOBER 12)

FACT FILE

Start: YHA Hartington Hall

Distance: 6miles (9.7km)

Time: Allow at least 2hr 45mins

mini break during the festival can also take advantage of a 20% discount on overnight stays at more than 50 participating youth hostels throughout England and Wales.

To find out more about the festival, download walking routes, register for a social walk or book discounted accommodation, visit www.yha. org.uk/festival-of-walking.

Editor’s Note: YHA is a leading provider of residential school trips, with more Learning Outside the Classroom (LOtC) accredited sites — more than any other provider. Further information about YHA can be found at yha.org.uk

Below: YHA Hartington Hall, where this walk starts and finishes.

Wolfscote Dale. Picture by Russ Teale.

WITH MARTINS WORLD TRAVEL AND FRED. OLSEN CRUISE LINES AND FRED. HOLIDAYS IMAGINATIVE AND UNUSUAL ITINERARIES

A World Waiting To Be Explored

CRUISE AND STAY AND SEE

MORE

EXPERIENCE THE FRED. OLSEN DIFFERENCE.

With a variety of itineraries to amazing destinations, Fred. Olsen, a travel partner of the long-established, Chesterfield and Bolsover-based travel agent, Martins World Travel, offers a combination of cruise holidays aboard Balmoral with exciting rail options. Travellers can also fly out or fly back to the UK on selected itineraries too.

Amidst great excitement among the adventurous holidaying fraternity, the fantastic choice of hand-picked rail adventures has recently been unveiled. All holidays recommended by Martins World Travel are designed to be unforgettable from start to finish.

Mediterranean Cruises

Setting sail on a Fred. Olsen Balmoral cruise around the Mediterranean is wonderful in its

own right, but why stop there? Guests can elevate their journey by adding pre- and post-cruise rail extensions. Expanding a holiday in this way offers a deeper immersion into the rich culture, history and beauty the Mediterranean region has to offer.

A Grand Mediterranean cruise, with smaller, intimate ships, provides a friendly and personal atmosphere. Travellers can sail to iconic destinations and hidden gems – from Barcelona’s vibrant streets to the serene beauty of the Greek Isles – all accessible to the modestly sized vessels. Guests can enjoy traditional cruising with elegant lounges, gourmet dining, and awardwinning service. Enriching on-board activities, from expert lectures to live entertainment, ensure a memorable journey.

Holiday Enhancements

Pairing the convenience of a Fred. Olsen Cruise with the option to travel by rail represents an ideal way to enhance any holiday. Whether guests are starting their journey or returning home, they can enjoy a stress-free transition from land to sea or vice versa, as the entire travel experience is guaranteed to be as smooth and enjoyable as possible.

Travelling by rail is one of the

most relaxed and eco-friendly ways to arrive directly at the heart of any destination – the journey itself being an integral part of the holiday. Travellers can truly savour every moment without the hassle of airports, baggage charges, or reclaim queues. Travelling by rail gives opportunity to rest, grab a coffee or snack, or go for a leg stretch. Picture, if you will, the comfort of a pre-booked seat and watching the world unfold outside.

SOME EXAMPLE ITINERARIES:

SPANISH COLOURS & CULTURES CRUISE WITH ANDALUCIAN EXPLORER RAIL EXTENSION

Departing from Southampton 18 nights

17 Sep 2025

Balmoral from £3,529 Cruise & Tour

Highlights

• 10-night full-board cruise aboard Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines’ Balmoral

• See the jewels of Andalucia: Cordoba’s Mesquita and Granada’s Alhambra

• Visit Seville, Cordoba, Ronda and Granada in one week

• Standard Class rail from Valencia to Seville

• 4 nights’ 4-star accommodation in Seville with breakfast

• Excursion to Cordoba from Seville including entrance to the Mesquita

• Excursion to Ronda from Seville

• Standard Class rail from Seville to Granada

• 3 nights’ 4-star accommodation in Granada with breakfast

• Visit to the Alhambra, including the Nasrid Palace

• Standard Class rail from Granada to Barcelona

• Standard Class rail from Barcelona to Paris

• Standard Class Eurostar from Paris to London

• Oversea transfers as specified in the itinerary

• ABTA and ATOL bonded for financial protection

DISCOVERING TURKISH TREASURES CRUISE & ANDALUCIAN EXPLORER RAIL EXTENSION

Departing from London Stansted 21 nights 24 Oct 2025

Balmoral

From £4,069 Cruise & Tour

What’s Included

• Flight from the UK to Rhodes

• Overnight 4-star accommodation in Rhodes with breakfast

• 12-night full-board cruise

aboard Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines’ Balmoral visiting Bodrum, Kusadasi, Istanbul, Malta, and Malaga.

• Standard Class rail from Málaga to Seville

• 4 nights’ 4-star accommodation in Seville with breakfast

• Excursion to Cordoba from Seville including entrance to the Mesquita

• Excursion to Ronda from Seville

• Standard Class rail from Seville to Granada

• 3 nights’ 4-star accommodation in Granada with breakfast

• Visit to the Alhambra, including the Nasrid Palace

• Standard Class rail from Granada to Barcelona

• Overnight 4-star accommodation in Barcelona with breakfast

• Standard Class rail from Barcelona to Paris

• Standard Class Eurostar from Paris to London

• Oversea transfers as specified in the itinerary

• ABTA and ATOL bonded for your financial protected packages.

Martins World Travel can offer many other exciting cruise-andstay itinerary combinations. Please feel free to speak to the professional staff in Bolsover and Chesterfield.

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

A Derbyshire dale in summer sunshine…

IS there anything more beautiful than a Derbyshire dale in the height of summer? Well, Andy Hanna, of Great Longstone, clearly agrees as he took this image of Cressbrook Dale looking stunning on a late July day, as his latest entry into our Derbyshire’s ‘Lovely Landscapes’ competition.

Next, the late afternoon sun catching Mam Tor, taken from the ruins of Peveril Castle, also on a late July day by Brian Smith, of Upper Newbold.

Janice Dyson, of Wingerworth, visited the beautiful wildflower meadow at Barlow Sunflowers on August 8, and said of her picture: “How perfectly inviting this table and chairs look.” Indeed, Janice!

And here is an image of lenticular (lentilshaped) clouds above Curbar Moor, taken on July 18 by Peter Wigglesworth, of Matlock.

Here’s Black Rocks, high above Cromford, on July 18. “Looks like a Black Rock version of the sphinx, looking out over the valley to the quarry” says Lisa Hands, of Sheffield, who took the picture.

Next, an unusual shot of the sun’s reflection on the River Derwent under the Peak Rail bridge, at Matlock, taken in July by John E Doxey, of Matlock.

Rebecca Simmons, of Matlock, says of this image: “I took this whilst admiring the view from the Heights of Abraham.”

Looking through the wooden frame at Carsington Water to see  wind turbines on the hillside beyond. It was taken on August 1 from Millfields car park by Ken Parker, of Matlock.

Rachel Leah said she loved seeing the sun through the trees in the woods at Dronfield Woodhouse.

L.H

J.D

R.S

K.P

R.L

Here’s a sunset picture from Curbar Edge, taken on July 29 by Peter Wigglesworth, of Matlock, who says: “It should have been flying ant day on the moors, as I got covered in ants, down my back and in my mouth, leading to six painful bites, but it was lovely up on the edges.”

Looking towards Curbar Edge from Baslow Edge on a misty morning on August 16 was Russ Teale, of Newbold.

‘A morning in Matlock’ is how Ian Moorcroft, of Hollingwood, sums up this July picture.

The picture(s) you send in for the ‘Lovely Landscapes’ competition must be taken in 2024 and must be in Derbyshire. You can enter as many times as you like. We do not want entries from commercial photographers; and drone images will not be accepted. Please email your entries to barrief@bannisterpublications.co.uk, giving your full name and address, a contact telephone number and a description (including the date it was taken) of the image, which should be attached as a high-res jpeg. 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. The closing deadline for entries is noon on October 16, 2024.

THE DIRECTORY

Prize Crossword

Across: 7 Chunter, 8 Ashover, 10 Its, 11 Linacre, 12 Hucklow, 13 Eckington, 16 Trail, 17 Sitwell, 21 Ingleby, 22 Elton, 23 Ambergate, 26 Doleful, 29 Fleapit, 32 Oaf, 33 Nee, 34 Van, 35 Stanton.

Down: 1 Ruin, 2 Otic, 3 Priest, 4 Rash, 5 Chic, 6 Evaluate, 7 Calke, 9 Rowsley, 14 Gel, 15 N W I, 16 Tiger, 17 Sheldon, 18 Totalled, 19 Eon, 20 Lea, 24 Buffs, 25 Eaton, 27 Five pits trail, 28 Long Eaton, 30 Eyam, 31 Pits.

Congratulations to M Collins of Chesterfield, who won the August 2024 crossword. They won £25.

Why not have a go at the September 2024 crossword on page 55?

A designer way ahead of his time…

By Vivienne Milburn FRICS Independent Antiques Auctioneer & Valuer

ONE of the fastestgrowing areas of the auction world is the 20th century Modern Design market, following the article I wrote for Reflections in the March 2024 issue about the local silversmith and designer Brian Asquith. I was asked to sell Asquith’s workshop collection of stylish modern design items, including works designed by Dr Christopher Dresser.

Dr Dresser was a designer who was way ahead of his time. The dynamic toast rack and extraordinary teapot pictured here appear quite contemporary even for today. However, they were designed in the Victorian era in the 1880s.

Dr Dresser, who was born in 1834, was a designer and design theorist, now widely known as one of the first and most important independent designers.

He was a pivotal figure in the Aesthetic Movement and a major contributor to the Modern English style, both originating in England and having long-lasting international influence. Ironically, Christopher Dresser died in 1904 just at the start of the 20th Century design revolution.

Dresser was working during the age when everything was decorated, the Victorians were very keen on over-ornamenting things. Dresser rebelled against this in a major way. Many of his designs are completely devoid of ornamentation; their beauty coming from the form the object takes because of its function. This was all a good fifty years before anyone ever thought of “beauty coming from form and function”, which is the mantra of the 20th Century design revolution. He did many designs working

in ceramic and metalware, in particular as an Art Director of the Linthorpe Pottery in Middlesborough between 1879-1882. His designs were quite unique in comparison to

any of his contemporaries at the time, such as John Ruskin and William Morris. Dresser fully accepted the implications of modern production techniques and addressed

Left: This dynamic solid silver toast rack designed by Dr Christopher Dresser, c.1880, is only one of seven produced for Alessi by Brian Asquith, hallmarked Sheffield 1992. It weighs 15.5oz and is presented in a fitted box. It made £1,950 in the recent specialist auction.

Below: The Alessi label on the toast rack.

the importance of design rather than craftsmanship.

Some of his most interesting designs were for silver and electroplated nickel silver. He did designs for notable manufacturers such as Elkington, James Dixon and Hukin and Heath. From a decorative arts point of view, they are admired for their austere, simple geometric forms, which are unadulterated and honest in their production and very often exposing rivets and construction as part of the design.

His pieces are sometimes marked with his facsimile signature “Ch Dresser,” which is not always easy to read and sometimes missed by my clients. Some designs are still in production, such as his oil and vinegar sets and toast rack designs, now manufactured by Alessi – an Italian kitchen utensil and housewares company, selling a wide range of products by modern designers.

The provenance of the pieces featured here are from the Brian Asquith (1930-2008) workshop in Youlgrave. Brian Asquith was one of the principal figures in British silversmithing during the postwar years. With the revival of the British manufacturing economy and an ever-closer integration with

the visual arts, there were exciting opportunities for those who chose to pursue a fine art or traditional crafts career.

Asquith and other contemporaries, such as David Mellor, Gerald Benney and Robert Welch, successfully straddled designing for the craft studio and the mass production of consumer goods.

Asquith studied at Sheffield College of Art, 1942-47, and then in 1951 at the Royal College of Art, where he studied sculpture under Frank Dobson and John Skeaping. Working in partnership with David Mellor in the metalware and product design workshop in Sheffield, 1955-60, he went on to establish his own design office in Sheffield, 1960-63, and then in Youlgrave from 1963. He designed for Redfyre, British Airways, Spear & Jackson, the Worshipful Company of Goldsmiths, the International Tennis Federation and the royal family.

Editor’s Note: Perhaps you also have modern design 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 Vivienne Milburn on 01629

640210 or 07870 238788; or go to www.viviennemilburn. co.uk or email vivienne@ viviennemilburn.co.uk

Left: A triangular pewter teapot, designed by Dr Christopher Dresser, one of six produced in 1990 by Brian Asquith, after the original design from c.1880. It made £1,300 in a recent specialist auction. It was proof that not all pewterware is of little value in today’s market. If you have items you are considering selling, it is advisable to have them valued, as things like this can easily be missed.

‘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 2024 ‘Top Pet’ photographic competition – and YOUR pet could be a winner and appear on the front page of the magazine!

All you have to do – if you live in Derbyshire – is submit an image of your pet to hello@bannisterpublications.co.uk, along with the name of the pet, your name and address and a phone number; by no later than November 25, 2024.

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

Right: Jonathan Allsopp

Sep 22

Sep 5

Al Murray: Guv Island 

9-10 Stung (Playhouse) 10-14 Now That’s What I Call A Musical  (Lyceum)

Looking For

GEORGIAN RURAL LIFE IN BEELEY

SEE a Georgian farm labourer’s cottage and agricultural tools and equipment at Moor End Cottage, Moor End, Beeley, DE4 2NR. Living history interpreters will be on site for visitor questions. Also on site is an early Victorian shepherd’s hut and other artefacts relating to rural life in the age of the horse. It is open on Saturday September 7 and Sunday September 8 (11am-4pm each day). There will be a car park on Pig Lane in a field (sat nav DE4 2NT). Pre-booking is not required. Each tour will last around one hour, with 20 people per tour. The contact is David Spencer on 07748 369145.

SHEFFIELD LYCEUM

BUXTON OPERA HOUSE

The ELO Show: A Tribute to the Genius of Jeff Lynne

WINDING WHEEL

Toad on the Road: An Evening with Ryan Moloney

Bakewell Photo Club. At Friends Meeting House, Chapel Row, Bakewell, DE45 1EL, at 7.30pm. Presenter Ashley Franklin with “The Derwent Valley: the story of a Photo Book.” Ashley tells how he assembled the first-ever photo book, published in 2023 to celebrate the Derwent Mills World Heritage Site. Look forward to expert story-telling and superb images. Visitors very welcome. Check out the full season’s

at www.bakewellphotographic.co.uk

ENTERTAINMENT

GARDENS TO VISIT THIS MONTH…

AS we draw to the end of the garden-visiting season, we hope you can join us for the last Open Gardens of the year in Derbyshire, says Tracy Reid of the National Garden Scheme.

Coxbench Hall, Coxbench (pictured above), is the former ancestral home of the Meynell family and its large grounds contain a tropical style garden, ponds and kitchen garden.

The gardens are constantly being developed with a focus on colours, textures and scent and much of the garden can be seen from the wheelchair accessible paths.

The gardens are open from 2.30-4.30pm on Sunday, September 8, admission is just £3 for adults, children admitted free and dogs on leads welcome. There will be a selection of home-made cakes for sale.

‘Holmlea’ in Ambergate will be open on

6,7,8,12,13,14 Eckington Connections exhibition –Heritage Open Days. At Eckington Library (S21 4JG), illustrating the amazing story of the connections of the area, started in Roman times with the building of Ryknield Street linking south-west England to a fort near Rotherham. Roads, the Chesterfield Canal and the railways followed, with two Eckington stations on competing lines to London. Opening times: 6th – 9.30am-7pm; 7th – 9.30am-12.30pm; 8th – 9.30am to 5.30pm; 12th – 9.30am to 5.30pm; 13 – 9.30am to 7pm; 14 – 9.30am to 5.30pm. Pre-booking not required 6-16 Wirksworth Festival. A 10-day celebration with a mix of music, performance and visual arts. Enjoy the work of more than 150 artists plus an inspiring programme of performances and events. The Art Trail: the town transforms into a huge gallery for the weekend as homes, gardens and public are thrown open for over a hundred artists to exhibit their work. There is a programme of live music, drama and film in venues

Saturday 7th and Sunday 8th (11am-4pm daily). As well as the impressive kitchen garden, including a cut-flower patch, there’s lots of late summer colour from salvias, asters and dahlias.

The garden is known for its quirky features such as the canal lock water feature and signal box summerhouse and is family friendly with a riverside trail to follow.

Home-made cakes and teas can be purchased from ‘The Pavilion’ and there will be plants for sale, including many varieties of salvia.

The garden is on the A6 and can easily be visited by bus or train as it’s only a few minutes walk from Ambergate railway station. Admission is £4, children admitted free and dogs on leads welcome.

The National Garden Scheme would like to thank everyone that has visited us this year; helping us raise funds for the UK’s bestloved nursing and health charities. We look forward to welcoming you again next year.

across the town. For more information, visit: www.wirksworthfestival.co.uk

6-8 Parfest Beer Festival ‘24. Taking place at Parwich Memorial Hall between 1pm and 11pm daily; a bevy of local brews, together with a selection of cider will be on tap for visitors to enjoy. And with the organisers, Parwich Royal British Legion Club, crowned national finalists in CAMRA’s prestigious Club of the Year 2023, a quality experience is sure to be served up. Hot and cold food will be available throughout, plus toe-tapping sounds from local musicians. Entry tickets can be purchased on the door. Each ticket costs £10 and includes a souvenir Parfest glass, tokens for your first choice of pint, plus a guide to the festival. Monies raised at this family and dog-friendly event enable the Parwich Royal British Legion Club to continue to offer a varied programme of activities throughout the year

7-8 Steampunk Weekend at Crich Tramway Village. 10am-5pm each day. Enjoy the

alternative history combined with science fantasy and fun for all the family. Enjoy spiffing entertainment and tea duelling morning and afternoon. Music on the bandstand from Daisy Roots, Boothill Toe tappers duo and Madame Misfit both days. Flea Circus and Sam the Spam bunko booth. Sunday: In addition to the above the FULL FATHOM FIVE, a Steampunk acapella group, will perform traditional shanties. Strap yourselves in for a rollocking good time. You can obtain discounted day admission rates if you dress as a Steampunk

7 Holymoorside Horticultural Society Open Autumn Show. At Holymoorside Village Hall, 2.30-4.30pm (staging 10am-1pm). Dahlias, Chrysanths, vegetables, etc. Refreshments available. For information or schedules call 01246 569059 or 568000

7-27th Oct Matlock Bath Illuminations. A fun-packed family event featuring a spectacular parade of illuminated and decorated boats along the River Derwent. The 2024 season runs every Saturday and Sunday night. Matlock Bath Venetian Boat Builders’ Association decorate themed models with an array of coloured lights. The models are mounted on rowing boats and paraded on the river each Saturday (from around 7.45pm in September and from around 7pm in October) and Sundays (from around 7.30pm in September and 7pm in October) in Derwent Gardens, giving a unique display. The boats can only be viewed on admission into the gardens

8 Magpie Mine - Heritage Open Day. The surface remains of the Magpie Mine near Sheldon are the best example in Britain of an 18th and 19th century lead mine. It was the last working lead mine in the Peak District, finally closing in 1958. Now a Scheduled Monument, the site is preserved by the Peak District Mines Historical Society. 11am-4pm. For more information, visit www.heritageopendays.org.uk

8 Elder Yard Unitarian Chapel - Heritage Open Day. 3-4pm. An unspoilt 17th Century Chapel (the oldest in Derbyshire), featuring original pews, altar and organ. Exceptional stained glass windows, a historical collection of Pearson’s Pottery and various artefacts not normally available to view. The Chapel in the centre of Chesterfield has stood since 1694. It is a quiet retreat on a smart thoroughfare. It has a historical graveyard with many notable town figures remembered and the oldest grave dates back to 1705. Inside you will find the unspoiled beauty of woodwork and magnificent stained glass with many historical artefacts. A collection of Pearson’s pottery and a unique model of the chapel from 1972 will also be on display. Members of the Chapel will provide light refreshments. There is also a superb history of the Chapel available for a small charge. For more information, visit www.heritageopendays.org.uk

8 Chesterfield Record Fair. Vinyl lovers are in for a treat with the fair on Chesterfield Market. Open from 9am-3pm, there will be more than 40 traders from around the country selling records to suit every taste. As well as vinyl, there is a range of CDs, DVDs as well as rock and pop memorabilia. Visit the AA Record Fairs Facebook page to learn more.

13-14 Peak District Challenge 2024. 8am-9pm. A trail running or trekking challenge that offers four levels of difficulty. Each distance has a target time to try to beat, from 9 hours to hike 25km; up to 24 hours to walk or run the huge 100km Gold Ultra Peak District Challenge. Motivation and encouragement are provided at checkpoints, about 10km apart, with water top-ups and refreshments. A stew supper on Saturday evening is included in the price of your entry. Our professional safety teams monitor teams’ safety throughout. Each team’s GPS tracker allows HQ to see each team’s exact location. To book and for more details, visit: www.peak-district-challenge.com

14-15 Melbourne Festival Art & Architecture Trail. Featuring work by some of the Midlands’ best creative artists exhibiting their work in gardens, halls and local homes not usually open to the public. To book, visit www.melbournefestival.co.uk

14 Heritage Open Day – St Peter & St Paul Church, Walton, S40 2DD. Discover the history & secrets of this beautiful Grade 1-listed medieval church, ‘meet’ local celebrities from the past including Thomas Linacre, Henry VIII’s royal physician. Activities and refreshments in the Schoolroom. 10am-4pm. Pre-booking not required.

14 Derby Arboretum Pride Festival. Join the crowds at Markeaton Park for Derby Pride. There will be live music, acts and DJs on the main stage; a vibrant market area featuring LGBT+ owned and LGBT+ friendly small businesses, charities, and other organisations; food and drink vendors; and a family area for kids of all ages. 12am-12pm.

18-22 Duffield Arts Festival & Scarecrow Trail. The annual not-for-profit festival offers a broad programme of performances, workshops and talks. Music shows, dance performances, art exhibitions, story-writing competitions, and not forgetting the Duffield Scarecrow Festival, plus many more events. For booking and more information, visit: www.duffieldartsfestival.com

20-21 The Derbyshire Craft Beer Festival at The Grand Pavilion, Matlock Bath. There will be over 40 beers from breweries, food and great musicians – all from Derbyshire! Book your ticket for only £5 in advance online, or £10 on the door. To book, go to www.thegrandpavilion. co.uk/events/derbyshire_beer_fest/

20-21 Derby Feste. A programme packed full of immersive and ground-breaking work showcased across the city of Derby for all ages. Attracting over 30,000 visitors to

TREE-MENDOUS TREES AT THE CEMETERY!

ONCE again, the Friends of Spital Cemetery will be taking part in the annual free festival celebrating our heritage. In line with this year’s theme – Routes, Networks & Connections – they are offering not one, but two activities. One is a downloadable self-guided tour showing stories commemorating railway connections from Chesterfield’s past. The other is inviting the public to join them to help identify the tree-mendous variety of trees in the cemetery.

Derbyshire’s second public cemetery at Spital was designed as a Victorian Garden Cemetery, the fashion at the time and planted with many trees – many of which were brought from abroad.

Guide books and a tree map will be provided. Younger visitors will have fun with a treasure hunt and can learn how to work out the age of the trees. Refreshments will be provided.

For the railway enthusiasts, the Friends have put together a downloadable map showing a number of stories with railway connections – the pioneers whose names will be known to local people (Eastwood, Swanwick, Oliver), the railway workers and some unfortunate incidents.

The Heritage Open Days at the cemetery are September 6-15 inclusive. On Sunday, September 8, between 10am-noon, is a special event called The Tree-mendous Trees of Spital Cemetery; booking details: https://ti.to/spitalcemetery-tours/heritage-open-days-copy

Derby, Festé has been a flagship outdoor arts festival since its inauguration in 2007. Festé has built a reputation for presenting work of national and international recognition. Nearly all of the performances at this year’s Festé are going to be free of charge. To see the full listing, locations and timings, visit www.derbyfeste.com. 28-29 Tissington Craft Fair. Independently run and carefully curated to focus on the core values of a traditional artisan market. Talented designers, makers and artists with a unique range of products. 10.30am4.30pm. For bookings and more information, visit: www.tissingtoncraftfairs.com

OCT

3 Screen On The Green at Loundsley Green Community Centre. New cinema equipment has been installed at the centre, and the movie is The Boys in the Boat, which has an Olympic theme. Doors open 6.30pm, movie starts 7pm.

SUBMIT YOUR LISTING OR EVENT

Please email your information including dates to whatson@reflections-magazine.com before September 17th, 2024, to appear in the October 2024 issue.