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BRITAIN’S FIRST ASTRONAUT TALKS ABOUT SPACE
GUIDED PILGRIMAGES IN DERBYSHIRE!
GET PERFECT REFLECTIONS IN YOUR PHOTOS
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62 REFLECTIONS MAGAZINE SEPTEMBER 2025
Editor: Barrie Farnsworth, E: editor@bannisterpublications.co.uk Advertising: Mike Snow, M: 07966 445452 E: mikes@bannisterpublications.co.uk Advertising: Helen Wragg, M: 07973 672582 E: helen@bannisterpublications.co.uk Managing Director/Photographer: Robert Bannister, E: robert@bannisterpublications.com Art Editor: Ben Fletcher-Bates, E: design@reflections-magazine.com Social Media: Rebecca Bloomfield, E: hello@bannisterpublications.com Accounts: Helen Holgate, E: admin@bannisterpublications.co.uk Distribution: E: distribution@bannisterpublications.co.uk Published by: Bannister Publications Ltd.
24,36,40,46,90 Countywide News A look at all that’s been happening in words and pictures
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Tel. 01246 550 488 (3 lines). Bannister Publications Limited, Office 2A Market Hall, Market Pl, Chesterfield, Derbyshire. S40 1AR. Reflections is published monthly and delivered directly to homes which fall into tax bands D to H and the following postcode areas: DE4 - 2, 3, 4, 5 / DE45 1 / S18 5 / S30 1 / S40 - 1, 2, 3, 4 / S41 0, S41 7, 8, 9 / S42 - 5, 6, 7 / S43 - 1, 2, 3 / S45 0, S45 9. /ReflectionsMagazine
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16 Britain’s first astronaut talks about space… Tim Peake is a former Apache pilot, test pilot and astronaut. He talks to Justin Chandler
30 Reflecting on how to get perfect reflections… Tips from top photographer Chris Drabble 50 Building a community… welcome to the club Fiona Stubbs meets a woman who moved to Chesterfield and start a thriving community 54 Independent Education A five-page schools’ special 62 Chef’s Signature Dish A lovely beef dish from the executive chef of the Devonshire Hotels and Restaurant Group, Adam Harper
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64 Food Review: Robin Hood, Baslow 68 Pitcher Wits 69 Prize Crossword 70 Latest entries into our 2025 photographic competition 72 Fashion: Layering logic Embrace the layers as we step into autumn, says our style guru Amy Norbury 78 Derbyshire CCC win county championship once only It was, in 1936, quite a remarkable achievement, reports John Stone 80 Antiques Serene landscape show Constable’s influence, writes our antiques expert Vivienne Milburn 82 Spotlight on the Arts News of an art trail – and a daytime club for grown-ups To advertise call 01246 550488
CONTENTS
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84 84 Heritage Open Days are free… We look at some of the Derbyshire highlights this month
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85 Out & About A Bakewell businesswoman brings guided pilgrimages to Derbyshire. Fiona Stubbs reports 92 Nine Roads Out, Nine Roads In… Godfrey Holmes revisits a huge roads project he undertook 14 years ago
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94 What’s On Our comprehensive guide to forthcoming events across the county and beyond in September and early October Visit our website at www.reflections-magazine.com
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LOCAL BUSINESS
Making windows beautiful since 1988
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ESTLED in the heart of Staveley you’ll discover Window Dressings, where every window tells a story. Whether it’s traditional pinch pleat curtains or a contemporary bespoke blind, this lovely shop offers a haven for those seeking to transform their windows and living spaces with bespoke designs. Step into the Window Dressings boutique curtain shop, and you’ll be greeted by a symphony of textures, colours, and patterns, curated to ignite your imagination, and elevate your home décor to new heights. Whether you’re drawn to the timeless elegance of curtains cascading from ceiling to floor or the sleek modernity of Roman blinds and roller blinds, their extensive range of options caters for every taste and preference.
At Window Dressings, they understand that each window holds the potential to breathe life into a room, serving as a canvas for personal expression and creativity. This family business boasts over 36 years’ experience. Proprietor Dave Garton and his close-knit team have the expertise to create the most stunning bespoke, made-to-measure curtains and blinds, just as you want them. Dave carries out all the measuring and fitting himself. Working from a huge range of fabrics, all curtains and blinds are available with matching or complementary pelmets, tiebacks, valances, poles, and cushion covers. Customers can immerse themselves in the luxurious fabrics of the custommade curtains, meticulously crafted to drape effortlessly and exude opulence from
“Indulge in the sophisticated charm of Roman blinds, renowned for their ability to infuse any space with a touch of understated glamour.” every fold. They can indulge in the sophisticated charm of Roman blinds, renowned for their versatility and ability to infuse any space with a touch of understated glamour. If all these options are not enough…Window Dressings can also make matching conservatory furniture cushions, throws and more – just ask Dave! So why wait? Embark on your design odyssey today and discover the transformative power of Window Dressings – where every window tells a story, and every room becomes a masterpiece. Contact Dave Garton for your free estimate or call into the lovely shop:
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Window Dressings, 31 High Street, Staveley, S43 3UU. Tel: 01246 472760 Open: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday & Friday 9am-1pm. Closed: Tuesday, Saturday & Sunday. To advertise call 01246 550488
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LOCAL BUSINESS
FIVE YEARS IN FOCUS
— THE FUTURE LOOKS EVEN CLEARER!
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N 9th September 2025, Oculi celebrates its 5th anniversary – five years of bringing clarity, style, and personal care to the heart of Chesterfield. Owned and managed by local resident Kate Wain, Oculi has built its reputation not just on premium eyewear, but on the warmth, trust, and unrivalled personal service that Kate has delivered since day one. It’s this personal touch - truly knowing her clients - that has been the bedrock of Oculi’s success, and the reason customers return time and time again. Kate, with over 20 years’ experience as a dispensing optician, leads a dedicated team including two inhouse optometrists. Every appointment lasts a full hour, giving the optometrist time to understand each client’s lifestyle, needs, and preferences. This means recommendations
are always tailored – whether Paul Smith, alongside Lafont, it’s the perfect lens, the most Allpoets, Vanni, Dutz, and Wolf. comfortable fit, or a frame Appealing to a younger 20s and that feels like “you.” 30s audience, other new brands As an independent optician, have been recently introduced, Oculi is an approved supplier such as Hackett, All Saints, and of Zeiss lenses, Johann von Goisern. offering the For children, full range from Tomato Glasses are “OCULI OFFERS SmartLife particularly popular. EXCLUSIVE BRANDS and DriveSafe For those with SUCH AS PAUL progressive an active lifestyle, SMITH, ALONGSIDE varifocals to Oculi also stocks LAFONT, ALLPOETS, sports eyewear high-performance VANNI, DUTZ, single vision from Rudy Project AND WOLF.” lenses. With — an elite Italian more than 100 progressive lens types –including Antireflection, Glare-reduction, and Office lenses – there’s a perfect match for virtually every lifestyle. All measured using a sophisticated digital fitting system, ensuring pinpoint accuracy for comfort and clarity. In terms of frames, Oculi offers exclusive brands such as
brand catering for cycling, running, golf, skiing, and more. Combining style, performance, and precision, these frames are designed to protect your eyes while enhancing visual performance in demanding conditions. For a nominal £30, clients can book an OCT scan – using state-of-the-art optical coherence
tomography to produce both a digital photograph and a 3D cross-sectional scan of the back of the eye in a single sitting. This advanced technology allows early detection of potential problems, often before symptoms appear, giving patients the best chance of protecting their sight for the long term. And now, the celebrations begin. Customers old and new can look forward to a special Open Weekend on 5th and 6th September 2025. THE TIMES FOR THE OPEN WEEKEND ARE FRIDAY 5th SEPTEMBER 2pm – 6.30pm AND SATURDAY 6th SEPTEMBER 9.30am -2.30pm. With a vast and comprehensive range of frames available to explore, visitors can take the opportunity to ‘Meet the Supplier’, ask questions, and discover the latest in eyewear innovation. All while enjoying nibbles and Prosecco as part of Oculi’s 5th anniversary festivities. Five years on, the vision is sharper than ever – and with Kate’s commitment to care, Oculi’s future looks bright, bold, and brilliantly in focus.
420 Chatsworth Road, Chesterfield, S40 3BQ t: 01246 558104 e: info@oculiopticians.co.uk www.oculiopticians.co.uk 14 Reflections September 2025
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FEATURE
Britain’s first astronaut talks about space… Tim Peake is a former Apache pilot, test pilot and astronaut. Tim attended Chichester High School for Boys before joining the Army Air Corps as an officer. A veteran of 18 years’ military service, Tim has flown more than 3,000 hours in over 30 different types of helicopter and fixed-wing aircraft. Justin Chandler reports.
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Tim Peake on tour. Picture by Lee Collier.
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RITISH astronaut Tim Peake will be at Buxton Opera House with his latest tour – Astronauts: The Quest To Explore Space – on Tuesday, September 23, Tim made history in 2015 when he became the first British astronaut to visit the International Space Station (ISS), where he spent six months living and working in space, completing a spacewalk and even running a marathon. And now he’s looking forward to a potential return to space, as part of a commercially-sponsored UK mission which could see him return to the ISS. His latest tour brings to life the adventures of astronauts and gives a fascinating insight into what lies ahead. “It’s like the greatest hits of space exploration, with amazing footage and behind the scenes stories of what it’s really like to leave our planet,” Tim said. “There are around 650 people who have been into space – and this tour allows me to share some of their many amazing stories. “I am so honoured to have experienced the wonders of space travel myself, and yet it still continues to amaze me just how much space inspires and fascinates people of all ages – and the show’s Q&A section proves that every single night. I love that part, but it’s also slightly terrifying as you never know what people are going to ask.” While the tour reflects on space stories from the past, Tim is also focused on his own possible future exploration. The UK Space Agency was approached in 2023 by Axiom Space – a US-based company offering commercial space travel, which is currently working on the first commercial space station as a replacement for the ISS – to support their ambitions for an all-UK mission. This short-duration mission would be focused on scientific research, technology demonstrations and educational outreach, with potential applicants To advertise call 01246 550488
FEATURE The International Space Station where Tim Peake, the first British astronaut, spent six months
having already been invited to pitch had some amazing years in Germany research projects for the mission. and Houston, but the time had come “Axiom’s project is hugely exciting and to settle in the UK for a while. I’m delighted to be involved,” Tim said. “Working for ESA is an incredible “Would I like to go back to the ISS if there experience. Retiring from their astronaut was a chance with Axiom? Absolutely corps enabled me to do more advisory work, – I don’t know of any astronaut who more charity and outreach work and to wouldn’t want another mission to space. engage with the commercial space industry. “I am also delighted However, I’m still an that we are looking ambassador for ESA.” to get more British Tim’s passion around “Space touches all astronauts their wings.” all things space as well as our lives in many The Axiom Space STEM education (science, different ways, from technology, engineering mission will be the climate monitoring, and maths) shows no first commerciallysponsored space flight, sign of waning, especially communications, meaning no cost to the given the expansion and navigation UK taxpayer, and it’s of commercial space to financial hoped it will open doors exploration alongside transactions, to further commercial the government-led agriculture and partnerships and whet agencies such as NASA, the appetite for space ESA and UKSA. disaster response.” sponsorship in the future. “The prospect of an “Space touches all-UK mission is a hugely all our lives in many exciting opportunity for different ways, from climate monitoring, science and technology companies, and communications, and navigation to for education and outreach,” he adds. financial transactions, agriculture and “The impact of my ESA mission in 2015 disaster response,” Tim explains. “Most was reaching and engaging with 2million companies are reliant on some form of schoolchildren, and with more Brits going space-based technology today and there to the ISS together, we can do even more. is huge scope for private investment.” So what does life look like now? Tim retired from the European “An average week, if there is such a Space Agency (ESA) early in 2023, thing, sees me spinning a lot of plates!” but within months talk had started Tim laughs. “I’ve had a dramatic career around the Axiom mission. change once before when I went from “I retired from ESA as it was a time being a test pilot to astronaut training and we needed to focus on having a stable this has been a similar shift in focus. family base – my sons were approaching “I’m an ambassador for The King’s their exam years,” Tim explained. “We Trust, Scouts, STEM Learning and Great Visit our website at www.reflections-magazine.com
Ormond Street Hospital, as causes very close to my heart, and I also work as an ambassador for the UK Space Agency and ESA for certain activities and events. “I’ve recently also become an ambassador for King Charles’s Astra Carta initiative, looking at how we can use space sustainably and responsibly, so that we can all benefit from the opportunities space has to offer whilst protecting it for future generations. “I’ve enjoyed writing several books, for both adults and children, and presented a TV documentary on the Secrets of Our Universe – and have especially enjoyed the opportunities to tour the country with my own shows!” These are momentous times for the space industry. While a moonwalk is on the cards for the Artemis 3 crew in 2027, and work is ongoing towards a crewed mission to Mars, some of the most exciting work will have impacts much closer to home in the coming years. “We have occupied the ISS for nearly 25 years now – and it is essentially a giant science lab,” Tim explains about the research taking place in orbit. “There are components in modern mobile phones which were first tested on the ISS. “But we’re getting more specialist in the science taking place there now. There is more targeted pharmaceutical research. For example, growing protein crystals in space for motor neurone and Parkinson’s disease sufferers could lead to much better treatments for these conditions. “We’re at the stage where space can become a manufacturing hub for all sorts of things, which can then be brought back down to earth. 17 Reflections September 2025
FEATURE
“There are things you can build in space which can’t be built on earth, because of the effects of gravity, and with costs coming down we can also think about large scale manufacturing in space. “There are attempts to grow human tissue and organs such as a heart on Earth, using bio ink and 3D printers. The problem is that small structures collapse due to gravity and need some sort of scaffolding. It’s not very effective. But in space, you can 3D print human organs more easily, because there is no gravity causing them to collapse in on themselves. “It sounds like the wildest science fiction, but it really is science fact. Five to 10 years’ time, and we could be printing full-size human organs in space that could be a feasible transplant option for patients. And that’s when space research starts to mean something very real for people on Earth. “The potential is only just now being unlocked.” “Of course, there is the caveat question: Should we send lots of rockets up into space? When we think about the debris from launches and space pollution. But many space companies, some of whom I am working with, are also out there focusing on that clean-up effort, the
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removal of space debris and creating cleaner, more efficient rocket fuel.” While all these prospects for the future of space travel are without doubt exciting, what most drives Tim’s enthusiasm is the power of inspiration. Some of the scientists and engineers coming through now were teenagers inspired by his Principia mission – which has created a huge legacy for the British space industry. “It’s easy to be inspired by space,” he said. “I can’t help but be inspired still by the potential future opportunities.
“The legacy I’m most proud of from my mission is without doubt the inspiration for future generations. When I go to schools and colleges, it’s amazing to see older students saying ‘I remember watching you launch and you inspired me to go off and follow these subjects’. “It’s a huge privilege to have a platform that allows you to inspire people. Space is a place where we can all wonder and dream.” Editor’s Note: The September show starts at 7.30pm. To book tickets, go to buxtonoperahouse. org.uk or call 01298 72190.
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Countywide News
Above: Mount St Mary’s College in Spinkhill, which is now shut.
Catholic schools close AROUND 600 children are uncertain where to go to school in September after the shock announcement that Mount St Mary’s College in Spinkhill, and Barlborough Hall, are closing after the charitable trust running them entered administration. The Catholic schools, which offer day and boarding options to children aged 3 to 18, have no way to solve their debt problems and must shut, they said on July 30. But parents and former pupils launched a crowdfunding campaign for £1million, which raised an astonishing £300,000 in less than 24 hours. However, governors confirmed the closure of both schools on August 8.
Nieper calls for action on NEETS… CHRISTOPHER Nieper, (pictured), whose father David set up the South Normanton family business in 1961, took on a Alfreton school nine years ago – and not a single 18-year-old left David Nieper Academy last year without a job or a place in further education. He believes he has a formula that would help end the scourge of NEETS – that’s young people Not in Education, Employment or Training. There are almost 24 Reflections September 2025
a million British 16-24-year-olds in this predicament, which Nieper describes as a ‘terrible time bomb’. Neiper organised a letter to the Chancellor Rachel Reeves in early August from top businessmen including JCB chief Lord Bamford. Nieper is proposing a tax break for employers that hire an apprentice, allowing them to offset the equivalent of two days in every week’s pay against their bill – otherwise, he says, we are risking a generation ‘on the scrapheap’.
Our apologies… IN our August issue, we included an editorial feature on Masson Mills. Unfortunately, there were factual errors that were identified but not omitted from the published version. We addressed this error in our online version as soon as we were aware of it. The article as it should have appeared can be accessed at https:// issuu.com/bannisterpublications/docs/ reflections_magazine_august_2025 (pages 40 and 41). We would like to extend our sincere apologies to Jon Needle and the Needle family, owners of Masson Mills, for any inconvenience caused.
Football match raises funds for hospice LOCAL housebuilder Tilia Homes sponsored a charity football match at Forest Edge, Chesterfield’s newest community, raising funds for Ashgate Hospice. The events was organised by site manager Scott Colley, in memory
of his brother Wayne, who received care from Ashgate Hospice before he passed away in 2023. The match supports vital bereavement services that have helped Wayne’s family come to terms with their loss, creating a safe space for Wayne’s children to talk, play, cry while navigating their grief. Tilia Homes supported the match with a £250 sponsorship, which raised over £10,000 for the hospice. Forest Edge is off Linacre Road and has two, three, and four-bedroomed homes.
Walton Lodge Farm gains award… WALTON Lodge Farm Estate, the 360-acre working farm and family home of Casa Hotel and Peak Edge Hotel owner Steve Perez, has officially achieved Red Tractor certification, one of the UK’s most respected marks of food quality and sustainability. The certification confirms that Walton Lodge Farm, home to Belted Galloway and Highland cattle, Dorset sheep, Berkshire pigs, chickens, and honeybees, meets the highest standards of food safety, environmental care, and animal welfare. The farm supplies seasonal meats, eggs, and honey directly to Casa Hotel’s Cocina Restaurant and Peak Edge Hotel’s Red Lion Restaurant. Steve Perez said: “It’s important that our guests know where their food comes from, and with Red Tractor’s assurance, they can dine with complete confidence.” For more information about Walton Lodge Farm Estate, visit casahotels. co.uk or peakedgehotel.co.uk. To advertise call 01246 550488
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LOCAL BUSINESS
OLD BOOT SOFAS –
Where Timeless Comfort Meets Proper Craftsmanship Step into Old Boot Sofas in Matlock and you’ll instantly feel the difference.
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HIS isn’t just another furniture shop – it’s a place where proper, characterful sofas are brought to life, each one individually handcrafted right here in Great Britain. Originally launched from a Fulham showroom back in 2011, Old Boot moved its home to Matlock in May 2022, setting up inside the beautifully restored “Boot Room” on the edge of town. The space still wears its history proudly, with exposed brick walls and original features giving it a warm, welcoming feel – much like the sofas themselves. Every piece is made to order, designed around you and your home. From the moment you walk through the door, you’ll get honest advice and friendly guidance – not a sales pitch. Whether you’re after a compact armchair or a grand 4-seater, nothing is off-the-shelf. You choose the size, comfort level, and your favourite from a carefully curated range of leathers and fabrics. Speaking of materials, the leathers are hand-finished and full of character, sourced from top tanneries for their buttery softness and natural marks. The fabrics are equally inviting – six versatile collections with over 70 colour and texture options. And if nothing’s quite right? Just ask – they’ve usually got more behind the scenes. All frames are built from solid hardwood, sourced from workshops within a 50mile radius of Matlock across Derbyshire, Staffordshire and South Yorkshire, and come with a 25-year guarantee. These are sofas made properly, designed to last. At the heart of it all is the Old Boot team – Emma, Zoe, Demi and Kerry – whose relaxed, down-to-earth approach puts customers instantly at ease. Takehome swatches are always offered, so you can see how the materials look in your space before making any decisions. 26 Reflections September 2025
Thanks to a loyal following and a strong online presence, customers now travel from all over the UK to visit the Matlock showroom – often making a day of it with a wander through the town or the nearby Peak District. The showroom is open seven days a week, making it easy to plan your visit. Once you’ve made your choice, your sofa is handcrafted from scratch in just 6 to 8 weeks. It’s then delivered and installed by a dedicated two-person team – who’ll even take away all the packaging for recycling. And with a 28-day return policy in place, you’re fully covered if something doesn’t feel quite right (though it rarely happens – they’ll remake or tweak it until it does). Old Boot Sofas isn’t about trends or fast furniture. As one customer put it, “It’s the kind of place where you can slow down, get real advice, and come away with something that feels like it’s truly yours.” It’s about getting things right – from the build quality to the service. Beautifully made, honestly sold, and built to last.
OLD BOOT SOFAS
The Boot Room, 44 New St, Matlock, Derbyshire DE4 3FEt: 01629 705000 w: www.oldbootsofas.com e: help@oldbootsofas.com To advertise call 01246 550488
LOCAL BUSINESS
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29 Reflections September 2025
FEATURE
Ashes Farm reflected in Ladybower Reservoir.
REFLECTING ON HOW TO GET PERFECT REFLECTIONS
I have always loved taking landscape photographs that incorporate water, whether it be coastal scenes or landscapes that look out across lakes and reservoirs, writes photographer Chris Drabble.
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HE most difficult part of photographing any scene is capturing the mood and the atmosphere that the scene evokes. The inclusion of water, particularly when it is still and forming reflections, elevates this emotional connection. Reflections effectively arouse feelings of tranquillity, calmness and serenity and by their very nature they double the impact of these moods. Reflections add depth to a picture that draws the viewer into the scene by communicating the perspective of distant objects in relation to the foreground and their spatial relationship. The juxtaposition between the real 30 Reflections September 2025
landscape and its reflection creates a pleasing two-tier perspective in which ripples and distorted reflections can add to the visual interest. Here are my five tips for taking great photographs of reflections… 1. Timing: plan to take your photographs in the early morning or late evening when the sun is low and illuminating warmer, softer light. 2. Weather: check the forecast for a day of lighter winds when there will be less disturbance on the water’s surface. 3. Location: scout locations and plan ahead. Any water source including lakes, reservoirs and even wet sandy beaches can all produce reflections,
but remember that smaller bodies of water become reflective quicker. 4. Composition: consider placing the horizon in the centre of the picture frame as this will create a perfect mirror image. Compose your photographs from a low angle to capture more of the reflection. 5. Take lots of photos: when the conditions are perfect, take lots of photographs from different positions and perspectives because there will always be one photo that stands out as better than all the others; and take your photographs as soon as the reflection forms. Editor’s Note: More of Chris’ photography can be found at Photo4me by following this link; photo4me.com/profile/chrisdrabble To advertise call 01246 550488
FEATURE
Reflections on Derwent Reservoir.
Normanton Church at sunset, reflected on Rutland Water.
Kilchurb Castle reflected in Loch Awe, Scotland.
Black Nab in Saltwick Bay at sunset, Yorkshire.
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31 Reflections September 2025
THE DELI AT DUNSTON HALL:
Open
A Destination of Discovery 7 DAYS A WEEK
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HAT makes a deli truly different? Is it the provenance of the produce, the passion of the people, or the picturesque place in which you enjoy it? At The Deli at Dunston Hall Garden Centre in Chesterfield, the answer is all three – blended beautifully into a destination that has become a firm favourite with locals and visitors alike. Set within the magnificent Dunston Hall Estate, this vibrant food hall and deli opened on 1st August 2024 and has been causing a culinary stir ever since. Owners David and Lynsey Harrison have created more than just a shop – they have crafted an experience. One that celebrates quality, embraces community, and showcases unique and exclusive produce.
A DYNAMIC NEW DIRECTION
With new Deli Manager, Victoria Hitchcock, at the helm, the Deli has seen a wave of exciting changes and inspired upgrades. A bespoke drinks section now shines with the very best in local beers, lagers, wines, and spirits – celebrating small-batch brilliance. Expect to find English wines, the acclaimed Wire Works whisky crafted by artisan distillers in Ambergate, and Shining Cliff gin from White Peak Distillery. Shelves also brim with Abbeydale’s independent ales, organic juices, and rare bottles you’ll never see in a supermarket aisle. Whatever your palate, whatever your preference, something unique is waiting here. And when it comes to food, the transformation is clearly visible from your first step into this Aladdin’s cave of artisan delights. The cheese counter now boasts a dizzying array from the intriguingly named ‘Green Thunder’ and ‘Drunk
Monk’ to the rustic ‘Wild Garlic Yarg’, the fiery ‘Red Storm’, and the creamy indulgence of ‘Gorgonzola Dolce’. Could you find a finer spread anywhere else in the county? It’s unlikely. The creativity continues with salads like ‘Beetroot, Puy Lentil and Date’ or ‘Roasted Squash, Chickpea and Kale’. Sandwiches are anything but standard, with a New York Deli Toasted Sandwich or a Muffuletta replacing the everyday ham and tomato. Speciality pies, signature sausage rolls, quiches, and indulgent desserts – from blondies to tiffins – are available to take home or eat on site. Step over to the meat counter and you’ll discover bold Italiana sausages bursting with flavour, alongside a range of locally sourced organic meats, black and white puddings, duck fat, and beef dripping. Shelves are stocked with ‘Good Phats’ olive oils, artisan Italian staples, Torres fried egg crisps, free-range duck
TO FIND OUT MORE
and quail eggs, and Derbyshire oatcakes. From exotic spices to freshly baked breads, from Gymkhana curry sauces to stuffed olives and anchovies, this is a treasure trove of tastes. Looking for a thoughtful present? Ready-made hampers and loyalty gift cards make perfect gifts for any occasion – birthdays, Christmas, or simply as a way to say thank you.
AL FRESCO ENJOYMENT – THE SHEPHERD’S HUT Just a short stroll from the Deli, you’ll find the Shepherd’s Hut set within the breathtaking grounds of Dunston Hall. Complete with
Dunston Hall Estate Dunston Road, Chesterfield Derbyshire, S41 9RL T: 01246 450005 E: anna@dunstonhall.co.uk www.dunstonhall.co.uk 32 Reflections September 2025
something new to discover. So, whether you’re a serious foodie, a casual browser, or simply someone who enjoys flavour with flair, The Deli at Dunston Hall invites you to slow down, explore, and indulge. Isn’t it time you tasted the difference? a marquee and views that stretch across Derbyshire, this is a stunning outdoor setting to savour sandwiches, salads, quiches, pies, or cakes – all purchased from the nearby Deli. The hut itself serves hot drinks, soft drinks, ice creams, crisps, and even a cheeky glass of Prosecco or Pinot Grigio. Open at weekends and throughout the school summer holidays, the Shepherd’s Hut brings another layer of leisure to your visit – though the marquee and outdoor seating can be enjoyed year-round. What better way to combine good food with glorious views?
MORE THAN A DELI – A DESTINATION The Deli isn’t just about food it’s about connection. Families love the outdoor play area and foodies relish the rare finds that line the shelves. It’s a place where community meets creativity, and where every visit offers
WEDDINGS AND EVENTS For those looking for something truly special, Dunston Hall itself is a dream destination. With exclusive access to the Hall and grounds, it is the epitome of a fairytale wedding venue. The building retains its sixteenthcentury charm while offering the comforts of modern luxury - rustic beams and refined touches creating a magical backdrop for any celebration. Beyond weddings, the Hall hosts bespoke events in a private and picturesque setting. Upcoming events can be explored via the website and across all social media platforms.
pots, tools, and furniture, this truly is a gardener’s paradise.
THE DELIGHTFUL BISTRO And then there’s the Bistro – nestled within the stunning grounds, ready to reward weary feet with delicious treats. It’s more than just a spot for tea and cake (though the cake is highly recommended). Breakfasts, light bites, hearty meals, paninis, and afternoon teas are all on the menu, alongside a wide choice of vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. Under the guidance of Manager Josh Chapell and Head Chef Tom Marr, the bistro menu has been refreshed and reinvigorated. With extensive outside seating – much of it overlooking the new children’s play area – it’s a family-friendly haven where great food and fresh air go hand in hand.
WHY WAIT?
From indulgent cheeses to artisan gins, from vibrant salads to hearty pies, The Deli at Dunston Hall Garden Centre is a celebration of flavour and flair. Add to that the beauty Enshrined in quintessential of the Shepherd’s Hut, the charm and set against rolling charm of the Bistro, the allure Derbyshire countryside, Dunston of the Garden Centre, and the Hall Garden Centre is a sanctuary romance of Dunston Hall itself, for gardeners of every level. The and you have an experience displays of horticultural plants that is impossible to resist. are breathtaking – perhaps the So, why not plan your visit largest local selection of its kind in today? The doors are open, the county. From vegetable plants the shelves are stocked, and and seeds to fruit trees, compost, the flavours are waiting.
DUNSTON HALL GARDEN CENTRE – A GARDENER’S PARADISE
WE’RE 5-MINUTES FROM SHEFFIELD & THE A61 Dunston Hall Estate Dunston Road, Chesterfield Derbyshire, S41 9RL T: 01246 450005 E: anna@dunstonhall.co.uk www.dunstonhall.co.uk
33 Reflections September 2025
Celebrating a year of quality, craftsmanship, and care at KC Bathrooms
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N Sheffield Road in Chesterfield stands a bathroom specialist that has quickly become the go-to name for quality, craftsmanship, and care. KC Bathrooms, spearheaded by the highly experienced Craig Leighton and Keith Sanderson, has achieved in just twelve months what many businesses take years to build – a reputation for excellence that is echoed in every customer review. This month marks their first anniversary, and there has never been a better time to take the plunge. At the heart of KC Bathrooms is a set of values that never wavers – independent, unrivalled personal service,
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uncompromising integrity, and unparalleled value. These are not just slogans. They are promises that run through every stage of the process. From the first conversation to the final installation, the KC Bathrooms approach is all about delivering beyond expectations.
Experience that speaks for itself Craig and Keith bring a wealth of industry knowledge to every project. Their expertise allows them to offer solutions that are both aesthetically pleasing and practical, tailored to suit each customer’s home and lifestyle. As Kelly from Brockwell explained, “From the moment I met Craig… I knew I was in safe hands.
He was knowledgeable, thorough, personable, and affable. Nothing was too much trouble. He listened attentively to my dream bathroom vision and turned it into reality.” That attentive approach is not just about style; it is about substance. KC Bathrooms only works with premium quality suppliers, ensuring every tile, tap, and fixture meets the highest standards.
Craftsmanship that sets the standard Design is only part of the picture. The real magic happens during installation – and KC Bathrooms has an in-house fitter whose work is exemplary. Keith’s name appears time and again in customer
testimonials, described as “tidy, efficient, meticulous, and a perfectionist”. Paul from Chesterfield was impressed from start to finish: “Positive, friendly, and efficient – consummate professionals. The whole project was carried out in just under three days, a testament to the talent and skill of all the staff. Their yardstick is excellence. Nothing less will do.” Daphne in Inkersall had a more complex project that required a complete level change to accommodate her mobility needs. “The new shower room has transformed my life, making it much easier for me to shower.
To advertise call 01246 550488
KC Bathrooms are an ideal choice for anybody with mobility issues,” she said.
Creative solutions for every space One of KC Bathrooms’ hallmarks is the ability to see potential where others might see problems. Frankie and Yash from Old Whittington were so delighted with their bathroom transformation that they immediately commissioned KC Bathrooms for an en-suite project. “We were absolutely over the moon with our new bathroom suite… Craig was creative in maximising the use of space and the craftsmanship was meticulous,” they shared. Nancy from Sheffield was equally impressed: “They interpreted my desires into reality perfectly. The whole bathroom has been revamped, and they maximised the space available. A magnificent piece of creativity and craftsmanship.” Whatever the bathroom specification, KC Bathrooms understands how to bring character, functionality, and elegance together.
A complete startto-finish service From the initial design consultation in your home to the moment you step into your finished bathroom, KC Bathrooms handles every stage with the same attention to detail. Craig’s project management ensures a smooth process, while Keith’s skill guarantees a flawless finish. Customers often comment on the peace of mind they feel knowing the same high standards are upheld throughout. This personal, all-inone service means you are not left juggling multiple trades or worrying about coordination. Instead, you have one dedicated team committed to delivering the best possible result for you.
Why Choose KC Bathrooms? • Independent and customer-focused – Your vision, your needs, your style • Premium suppliers – Only the best materials and fittings are used • In-house fitting expertise – No subcontractors, just trusted, skilled craftsmanship • Unrivalled personal service – From consultation to completion, every step is handled with care • Creative problem-solving – Innovative ideas to maximise space and style • Proven reputation – Glowing testimonials from delighted customers
Celebrating the first anniversary in style This month marks one year since KC Bathrooms opened their showroom doors at 317-319 Sheffield Road. It has been a year of building trust, earning referrals, and delivering bathrooms that genuinely change how people feel about their homes. As part of the anniversary celebrations, KC Bathrooms is offering a range of special opportunities. Whether you are looking for a full bathroom redesign, a stylish new en-suite, or a practical shower room upgrade, now is the perfect time to explore the possibilities. Craig and his team invite you to visit the showroom to see the quality of their products, discuss your ideas, and take advantage of these exclusive possibilities. As so many customers have found, choosing KC Bathrooms is not just about getting a new bathroom – it is about experiencing the very best in service, skill, and satisfaction.
KC Bathrooms – where passion meets precision, and your dream bathroom becomes reality.
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VISIT OUR NEW SHOWROOM AT 317-319 SHEFFIELD ROAD, CHESTERFIELD, S41 8LQ
T: 01246 589379 E: info@kcbathrooms.co.uk /kc bathrooms www.kcbathrooms.co.uk 35 Reflections February 2025
COUNTYWIDE NEWS
Above: Haddon Hall – hosting a new exhibition this month.
New exhibition at Haddon Hall HADDON Hall has a new exhibition called ‘MAGIC: charms, rituals and superstition in Elizabethan England’ running from September 20-October 31. It’s a fascinating look at how the supernatural was an accepted part of life in the reign of Queen Elizabeth I. In the exhibition, Haddon’s medieval, Tudor and Elizabethan rooms will host interactive displays from food folklore in the kitchens to herbology in the state bedroom.
A lollipop lady for 40 years! ONE of Derbyshire’s longest serving school crossing patrols Denise Elliott has celebrated 40 years of keeping children safe on the roads. And to mark the milestone the mumof-two, from Matlock, was presented with a bouquet of flowers from Derbyshire
Above: Coun Dawn Abbott hands the flowers to Denise Elliott. 36 Reflections September 2025
County Coun Dawn Abbott. Over the years, Denise has donned her yellow jacket in all weathers to help thousands of children and their families cross the road safely on their way to and from school in Matlock. She controls traffic on Smedley Street to help pupils get to All Saints CE Infants, Castle View Primary, St Joseph’s Catholic Primary and Highfields School. Denise began working as a patrol in 1985 when her own children were young to earn extra money. She said: “It’s the best job ever! Its kept me young and active and I have met so many people.”
Community groups get help… MORE than £450,000 in grant funding has now been awarded to community groups across Chesterfield – helping them to deliver key projects across the borough. As part of the Community Grants Fund scheme, the latest round of funding has seen a share of £142,910.98 awarded to 26 community groups and voluntary organisations from across the town. The grants are being used to allow local groups to build healthy and safe neighbourhoods by tackling food poverty and social isolation and helping people get back in to work. The latest groups to receive funding are: Chesterfield Foodbank; Duckmanton Miners Welfare; 1st/2nd Derbyshire Scout Group; Hollingwood Sheds; Chesterfield Litter Pickers; Samba Foundation; Chesterfield Filipino Community Association; 3rd/4th Derbyshire FSE Scout Group; Verba – Ukrainian Social Group of Derbyshire; Our Vision Our Future; Ashgate Hospice; Community Development Chesterfield;
Chesterfield and NE Pakistani Christian Group; Thistle Park Friends, Brimington; Standing Tall; SPACE Counselling Chesterfield; Ashgate Allotment Society; 2nd Brampton Scouts; Chesterfield & North Eastern Chinese Elders community; Woodthorpe Community Liaison Group; Asian Association Chesterfield and North Derbyshire; Loundsley Green Community Trust; Derbyshire Unemployed Workers Centre; Pathways of Chesterfield; Chatsworth Wellbeing Centre; Chesterfield FC Community Trust Eligible groups will be able to apply for funding again from the end of September 2025. More information can be found at www.chesterfield. gov.uk/community-grants-fund Funding for the grants scheme has been successfully secured from the Government’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF). Chesterfield Borough Council has been awarded a further £1.1m through the UKSPF, to deliver a range of projects until next March. The funding was allocated to the council by the East Midlands Combined County Authority.
Wilding Chesterfield… DERBYSHIRE Wildlife Trust’s Wilding Chesterfield two-year project has received £245,000 from The National Lottery Heritage Fund to aid nature’s recovery in the town’s urban spaces. The Wilding Chesterfield project aims to turn the town’s streets into homes for the species that were once thriving there, such as hedgehogs, bats, swifts, and the Big Five pollinators: flies, wasps, bees, butterflies and moths. The project will focus on restoring existing species and their habitats, through community-led action. From creating hedgehog highways so they can move safely through gardens to providing bat boxes to support these nocturnal pollinators, and recommending pollinator-friendly plants for gardens, Chesterfield is about to get wilder.
FANCY THAT CAN you guess what these vintage terms from Ye Olde Slang-off, a fun word game from SeniorLovers. co.uk which is a dating site for the over-50s: Tomato, Given the air, Applesauce, Scuttlebutt. Well, Tomato is an attractive woman (modern slang for it is Baddie); Given the air means rejected or ignored (modern slang Ghosted); Applesauce means nonsense or a lie (modern slang Cap); and Scuttlebutt means gossip or juicy news (modern slang Tea).
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LOCAL BUSINESS
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37 Reflections September 2025
LOCAL BUSINESS
HOLYWELL CARPETS Where Quality, Trust, and Service Stand the Test of Time
Floors you’ll love. Service you’ll trust.
I
N the world of home improvements, nothing transforms a space quite like new flooring. And in Chesterfield, one name has become synonymous with outstanding results: Holywell Carpets. This long-established family business has earned an enviable reputation for exceptional service, uncompromising integrity, and unrivalled craftsmanship. But it’s not just their expertise that turns first-time customers into lifelong clients - it’s the way they combine product knowledge, practical skill, and genuine care for every job, big or small. Customer reviews don’t just whisper their approval – they shout it. Holywell Carpets has a wealth of glowing, five-star testimonials from clients who are proud to recommend them over and over again. 38 Reflections September 2025
Customer Reviews that Speak for Themselves “Professional and friendly service from all the team… great advice on the right flooring… it looks amazing. Highly recommend.” – Trisha Jessop “Fantastic customer service… great choice of carpet… perfect fitting. I’d never go anywhere else!” – Tracey Morris “Thrilled again… superb quality… unbeatable prices compared to others. Already recommended many times.” – Rae Helm Perkins “First-class service… polite and helpful staff… amazing job. WILL RECOMMEND. 10/10.” – Jason Thomas “Excellent from start to finish… skilful, polite, and knowledgeable. Strongly recommend.”– Kay Greaves
It’s clear that, whatever the project, customers value the same things – honest advice, careful workmanship, and results that exceed expectations.
Integrity at the Core At the heart of Holywell Carpets’ success is integrity. Martin Howroyd, now leading the business, has been part of the team for over 33 years – including 25 years as a skilled carpet fitter. That experience gives him not only technical know-how, but a genuine understanding of what customers want and need. Martin’s guiding principle is simple: “If I wouldn’t have a carpet in my own home, I won’t put it in yours.” That commitment to honesty and quality means customers can trust they’re being given the right advice, not the most expensive option. To advertise call 01246 550488
LOCAL BUSINESS
Traditional Values, Modern Standards While Holywell Carpets embraces new products and styles, the business stays true to the traditional values that built its reputation: • Respect for customers and their homes • Clear, honest advice without sales pressure • Quality products chosen for performance and style • Skilled fitting to the highest standards From moving furniture to carefully removing old flooring, the fitting team takes pride in getting every detail right.
The Strength of Buying Power - ACG Membership As a member of the Associated Carpet Group (ACG) - a national buying group with over 320 independent retailers – Holywell Carpets has the purchasing power to compete with, and often beat, the big national chains. ACG membership means: • More choice from leading flooring suppliers • Better value thanks to competitive buying terms • Exclusive ranges not found everywhere Customers benefit from high-quality products at prices that make sense – proof that independent doesn’t mean expensive.
Trust Built In - Derbyshire Trusted Trader Holywell Carpets is also a proud Derbyshire Trusted Trader. This accreditation is more than a logo – it’s a guarantee that the Visit our website at www.reflections-magazine.com
business meets strict vetting procedures and adheres to a clear code of practice. For customers, it means complete peace of mind: they’re working with a team that is professional, fair, and committed to maintaining the highest service standards.
Why Holywell Carpets Stands Out • Honest advice every time – no pushy sales tactics • Carefully curated product range chosen for quality, comfort, and style • Skilled fitting service with attention to detail from start to finish • Competitive pricing without cutting corners • Long-term relationships built on repeat custom and recommendations
From Bedrooms to Bathrooms…and everything in-between Holywell Carpets offers solutions for every setting, from luxurious bedroom carpets to hardwearing flooring for busy hallways and kitchens. Their expertise extends beyond domestic projects to commercial spaces, ensuring the same high standards wherever they work. Need something family-friendly yet stylish? Their team will recommend durable options that handle heavy traffic while still looking beautiful. Want the wow factor in a lounge or master suite? Plush pile carpets in contemporary shades can add instant warmth and sophistication.
The Personal Touch from Start to Finish Every customer journey is personal. Step into their showroom and you’ll be greeted by friendly, knowledgeable staff who take
the time to understand your needs. You’ll receive honest guidance on what works best for your home, budget, and lifestyle – and you can take away samples to view in your own space before making a decision. Once you’ve chosen, the process is smooth and stress-free. Their experienced fitting team arrives as promised, works with care, and leaves your home clean and tidy – with your new flooring perfectly in place.
Floors That Feel Like Home A great floor isn’t just something you walk on – it’s the foundation for your home’s style and comfort. Holywell Carpets understands that every detail matters, from underlay choice to seam placement. It’s this meticulous approach that ensures each customer enjoys a finish that looks good and lasts.
A Reputation That’s Built to Last Holywell Carpets’ success hasn’t happened overnight – it’s been earned over decades of consistent quality and service. Many customers have returned time and again, confident they’ll receive the same care they did years before. In an industry where trust is everything, that loyalty speaks volumes. 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 39 Reflections September 2025
COUNTYWIDE NEWS Chris, (28), has been a fully-qualified financial planner for the last five years, after completing his training at Belmayne under the mentorship of partner, David Bashforth. He now has more than 100 clients and is playing an active role in developing the firm’s Dronfield presence.
Apprentices lead the way…
Above: Jessica Limb riding Penhaligon Danny De Vito at the Virtus World Para-Dressage Championships.
Jessica wins silver DERBYSHIRE rider Jessica Limb – who receives on-going support from a Buxtonbased disabled riding charity – has scored success in the inaugural Virtus World Para-Dressage Championships. Jessica (25), who lives in Chesterfield and started her para-dressage career with Helen Atkin Group Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA), won a silver medal in Class Individual ii3 in the competition held at Winchester, Hampshire. Riding Penhaligon Danny De Vito, Jessica achieved new heights in the contest. “To say I’m proud is an understatement,” said Jessica, who has represented Helen Atkin Group Buxton RDA in regional and national competitions over the past four years. “It shows that with some determination, hard work and an amazing support team, you can achieve anything. I’m really grateful to Helen Atkin Group RDA for helping me to start my journey in para-dressage and for continuing to support me.” Janine Frost, chair of Helen Atkin Group Buxton RDA, said: “Since she was paired with Danny and built on tuition from her coach Sonia Baines of Dunston Park Farm Equestrian Centre in Chesterfield, her riding skills have gone from strength to strength and they have made massive progress.” For more information, visit its website at helenatkinrda.org.uk 40 Reflections September 2025
Local financial planner up for new award A FINANCIAL planner at Dronfield-based Belmayne has achieved national recognition for the positive impact he is making on the independent advice firm and its clients. Chris Pond (pictured) has been shortlisted in the Young Financial Planner of the Year (East and West Midlands) category at the inaugural Young Financial Planner Awards. Chris will now head to Convene in London for the finals, which are being held on October 9. He said: “I’m thrilled to be shortlisted for this new award.”
TALENTED Chesterfield Borough Council apprentices are leading the way on an exciting refurbishment project that will breathe a new lease of life into a vital community space. Six apprentices from the council’s housing property services and housing assets teams will be responsible for giving Bonsall Court community room a complete makeover. The refurbishment will see the Newbold community room benefit from being redecorated throughout, updated electrics and new energy-efficient lighting. New toilets will be fitted, and the kitchen will also be modernised and washing facilities installed. New smart panel radiators will be fitted and will only use around 25 percent of the energy previously needed to heat the old storage heaters that are currently in the building. The roof over the kitchen, hall and toilets will also be fully insulated. Community Development Chesterfield has taken on a three-year lease of the Bonsall Court community space. The group is already making a difference through the Cosy Hub at Burns Close, Grangewood, and youth groups in Duckmanton and Poolsbrook. As refurbishment works take place, Community Development Chesterfield is inviting members of the public to share their ideas and help shape the activities it will offer. Residents can email info@ cdchesterfield.com to share their ideas.
A space safari at Derby… SPACE Safari is a space-themed, familyfriendly drone show set to light up the skies at Derbyshire CCC County Ground on Saturday, October 18, marking the first show of its kind in the region. TV star Michaela Strachan will narrate the show; as over 500 drones will take to the skies to create a glowing galaxy of safari animals, with storytelling from the Bafta Award-winning presenter. Independent show producers, Lumina Drones, will tell a story of cosmic animal adventure, all based on an ancient African fable. Tickets for this multi-sensory experience are on sale now from £13 for children and £18 for adults, available via Eventbrite. To advertise call 01246 550488
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41 Reflections September 2025
LOCAL BUSINESS
THE ONLYwithWAY TV’s IS HUP! Laura Jane Clark “hup! is an absolute game changer,” says TV architect and designer Laura Jane Clark from BBC’s ‘Your Home Made Perfect’
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EOPLE often ask how me they can add an extension or rebuild their unusable conservatory in the most efficient way possible,” says Laura Jane Clark. “hup! is definitely the answer. Base work is usually the biggest minefield and the biggest headache for homeowners, so having something where you can use the existing base, and don’t need to start digging down and just build, getting watertight in two or three days, it’s an absolute game changer.”
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Laura Jane Clark is a leading architect and interior designer as well as a much-respected TV presenter. “The revolutionary hup! home extension system is so flexible,” says Laura, “it gives homeowners access to a premium, bespoke design, which can be built in a matter of days with control and reassurance over the final cost.” During her first visit to the BBA approved hup! factory, Laura saw first hand how Building Regulation compliant materials combine using zero waste manufacturing processes to make the patented Ultrapanels that are used in the production of hup! “The quality of hup! is unparalleled,” says Laura. “I’ve been totally blown away by the engineering behind the whole thing. “The quality and level of detail is extremely impressive – from the engineering of the panels which make it extremely quick to build and energy efficient, through to
how easy it is to add the finishing touches, which offer homeowners complete design flexibility. There is nothing that hasn’t been considered, and it takes away so many of the headaches associated with a traditional extension.”
Time to hup! to it – you could even have a huppier home in time for Summer! hup! is THE way to build while being kind to the planet, making perfect sense as a one-stopshop for a sustainable build. The innovative hup! system: • Is FIVE times quicker to build than traditional building techniques, built in just days, rather than weeks or months • Is FIVE times more energy efficient, making it a warm and comfortable place to be while keeping energy bills low • So lightweight that those
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converting their conservatory to a hup! extension can reuse their existing base, saving further time and costs Uses only one supplier for the whole project Can be watertight in just 2-3 days and doesn’t require cement, meaning it can be built in any weather due to its rapid connection technology Generates much less waste on site compared to usual building methods Offers ultimate design flexibility, including roofs, rooflights, wall finishes, and windows/doors anywhere Can be combined with any external finish, including brick mesh, render or cedar to complement the property, plus windows and doors of any style and size can be placed anywhere in the design Promises a high-quality finish every time Offers exceptional value for money.
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43 Reflections June 2025
44 Reflections September 2025
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45 Reflections September 2025
COUNTYWIDE NEWS Richard Arkwright’s Cromford Mill, and commissioned Sue to write an adventure story for its mascot, Arkwright the Duck. “The book was really popular,” said Sarah. “I had one in mind for Wentworth Woodhouse – the story of a bat named Billy after the 7th Earl Fitzwilliam. Sue was the perfect person for the task.” Chesterfield-born Sue has been publishing – through Bannister Publications – children’s books since 2014 with the support of Calver-based Liz Furness, a talented illustrator. Sue said: “I’d never heard of Wentworth Woodhouse, so Sarah suggested I visit. I fell in love with it and the amazing stories of its owners. Sarah told me about the Trust’s plans for the site and I accepted immediately.” Sue had to learn about bats, too: “I always thought they were blind,” she explained. “When I found that though they rely heavily on sonar, they do have relatively good vision, I could plan what my character would discover on his adventures.” The book launched at Wentworth Woodhouse this month with a free bat crafting and book-reading event for children. Left: Children’s author Sue Wilkins in front of the grand Georgian fireplace in Wentworth Woodhouse’s Whistlejacket Room, where Billy the bat’s adventures begin.
The Moorings at Staveley’s canal basin
Sue is now bat-ty about Wentworth Woodhouse! PROTECTING its resident bats is one of the conservation tasks at Wentworth Woodhouse, the Grade I-listed country house in South Yorkshire. But now the the story of one little bat, written by Matlock children’s author Sue Wilkins, is about to help with the preservation of their home. Her beautifully-illustrated book, aimed at three to seven year-olds, tells the fictional tale of Billy, a bat who was born in the mansion’s stables. His adventures, 46 Reflections September 2025
told in rhyme, feature highlights of the house and gardens and also carry an educational message about the habits of bats and society’s need to protect them. Historical facts are weaved into the tale: the bat falls down a chimney into the Whistlejacket Room and goes on to see King George V and Queen Mary, who actually came to stay at Wentworth that year. Profits from the book and a Billy the Bat toy will boost the trust’s income. Wentworth Woodhouse’s CEO Sarah McLeod called on self-published author Sue Wilkins after working with her in 2016. Sarah was then CEO of the Arkwright Society, which looks after Sir
A PROJECT to transform Staveley’s canal basin has taken another step forward with the completion of The Moorings —a two-storey waterside development led by Derbyshire County Council. The development, which is part of the £25m Government-funded regeneration programme called Staveley Town Deal, is ready to welcome its first occupants with a mixture of office, retail and leisure areas on offer. The Moorings is expected to create between 40 and 60 new jobs which will contribute to the flourishing local economy and attract visitors to Chesterfield Canal and the surrounding area. The attractive building offers six office units on the first floor available to rent. On the ground floor there are units suitable for retail use and a larger area that will be used for a restaurant or café-bar. The restaurant area overlooks the canal basin and has an outdoor dining area. Access to the area has been improved with a new road and footpath and should encourage more visitors to make recreational use of the canal for walking, cycling and boating. For more information about Staveley Town Deal projects, visit www. chesterfield.gov.uk/staveley-town-deal To advertise call 01246 550488
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47 Reflections September 2025
To reach over
30,000
potential customers contact Derbyshire’s largestcirculation lifestyle magazine
contact Mike Snow on 07966 445452 or Helen Wragg on 07973 672582 Reflections has been established for over 30 years
A Choral Legacy Continues: Welcoming the 52nd Season for the Derbyshire Singers
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HE Derbyshire Singers, founded over fifty years ago by Joe Clark and Lynne Clark, now perform under Jonathan Allsopp’s leadership. The 51st season, which ended on 12 July, marked Jonathan Allsopp’s debut as Music Director with performances of works by Bach, Handel, and Brahms, concluding with French choral music at All Saints’ Church in Matlock. The 52nd season promises an exciting programme for 2025–2026, starting with Handel’s Messiah on 8 November at St John’s Church, Ashbourne. Rehearsals begin on 2 September. Other concerts include a Christmas Concert on 6 December, Rossini’s Petite Messe Solennelle on 21 March 2026, and a season finale on 11 July 2026 featuring opera choruses and arias. Tickets and information are available on their website, 48 Reflections September 2025
Above: Harriet Gregory, Jonathan Allsopp and Martin Baker.
www.derbyshiresingers.org. Special events include a Come and Sing Day on 27 September 2025 and a choral day led by the choir’s President, Neil Ferris, on 2 May 2026, exploring Haydn’s Creation. Ferris is the Chorus Director of the BBC Symphony Chorus and Artistic Director of Sonoro. The Derbyshire Singers welcome new members, offering the first two rehearsals of a new programme without obligation. Visit their website for more details. To advertise call 01246 550488
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HIS autumn, Haddon Hall invites visitors to discover the secrets of everyday magic in its latest immersive exhibition, MAGIC: Charms, Rituals and Superstition in Elizabethan England (20 September – 31 October 2025). Step into a world where folklore guided daily choices, herbal remedies were trusted over science, and the threat of dark forces loomed large in everyday life. Set against the backdrop of Haddon’s astonishingly preserved Tudor and Elizabethan interiors, the exhibition showcases historical artefacts from the hall’s own collection, alongside
atmospheric soundscapes, storytelling displays and projected imagery. From the wisdom of cunning folk to the superstitions carved into stone doorways, it brings history to life with imagination and care. The true centrepiece, however, is Haddon Hall itself: a place where centuries of history remain astonishingly intact, offering the perfect setting to explore the magical beliefs of the past. With its quiet beauty and sense of timelessness, it offers an evocative backdrop for a journey into the supernatural. MAGIC is included with general admission, making this an autumn exhibition not to be missed.
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49 Reflections September 2025
FEATURE
welcome to the club Building a community…
Friendships are fundamental to our lives – though not always easy to find. Fiona Stubbs meets Hannah Lunn-Courtnell, whose quest for connection led to a thriving community.
F
RIENDS. They play a key role in our lives – from feelings of connection and belonging to emotional support to fun and laughter. But how easy is it, really, to make meaningful friendships – especially when you find yourself in a new place? This was the dilemma facing Hannah Lunn-Courtnell, when she moved to Chesterfield from Bedfordshire four years ago. After devastating family loss, Hannah moved north to be near her grandparents and discovered a situation many women in their late 20s and 30s experience. “As I was approaching my 30s, I found friendships were changing and were hard to sustain,” says Hannah. “Some were having babies, others travelling and others still partying. “Then when I moved here, I realised how difficult it is to make new female friendships. As a woman, you don’t go up to other women in a bar and say ‘do you want to be my friend?’”
The answer, ultimately, lay in a new career direction and inspiration from her closest family as Hannah built not just individual friendships but a community of supportive, like-minded women. Initially working in hospitality, Hannah trained as a mat and Reformer Pilates teacher after experiencing both mental and physical benefits of yoga and Pilates. She went on to set up her own studio, Hannah’s House Pilates, in a garden room at her home in New Whittington… and a new community was born. It’s been a long, at times heartbreaking, journey for Hannah beginning when her mum, Andrea, was diagnosed with breast cancer. “I was five when she was first diagnosed,” recalls Hannah. “As a family, we had such a positive mental attitude. My dad would always say we’d focus on positives: that they get you through. After a mastectomy and extensive treatment, mum did get better.” Hannah completed school and studied Fashion Buying Management
at the University of Westminster, graduating with a first-class degree. But, in her final year of university, she received more devastating news. “My parents were on a tiger safari in India – it was dad’s lifelong dream to do that,” she says. “They’d had the best day, and had seen a tiger, when he fell ill. They were in a jungle, with no immediate access to a hospital. He was in a coma for about eight weeks.” A bleed on his brain left her dad, Brian, with a traumatic brain injury and needing permanent care. More heartache was to follow for Hannah. She says: “Mum celebrated 10 years of being cancer-free, but in the 11th year it came back and had spread to several parts of her body. This time she didn’t get better. “After caring for, and losing, mum my life fell apart. I fell into a deep depression, verging on alcohol addiction to get me through. I was out all the time, partying and drinking – masking my pain as much as possible. “I was close to suicide, to be honest.
Friends together... at a community event organised by Hannah.
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FEATURE
Hannah in her Hannah’s House Pilates studio. Picture by Lauren Brown @capturedbyloz_ My best friend moved in with me, put food in the fridge and looked after me. We’ve drifted [apart] now but I’ll always be grateful. And, because of that, I now know how to be with other people who are struggling with life. I’ve been there.” In September 2019, Hannah went travelling with her former partner, exploring South East Asia and falling in love with Vietnam before moving on to Australia.
She didn’t enjoy Australia and, with her relationship breaking down, returned to the UK as Covid hit. Travelling and lockdowns had put both physical and emotional distance between Hannah and her family in Chesterfield. But that changed when she received a phone call revealing her grandad, Barrie Lunn, was seriously ill. Both in their 80s, Barrie and his wife Joyce were well-known locally – Barrie Above: Hannah’s grandparents, Joyce and Barrie Lunn. Left: Hannah with her mum, Andrea. as former head of science at Staveley’s Netherthorpe School and Joyce as former headteacher of Tibshelf Infant School. Though Barrie’s health improved, Hannah decided to stay in Chesterfield. Joyce passed away in 2022 and Barrie the following year – but they had already proved a catalyst to Hannah’s views of friendship. “In those last couple of years, I got so close to my grandparents,” she says. “My gran had this amazing circle of female friends – their social life was unmatched! I was hanging out with 80-year-old ladies and loving it. And, because they knew so many people through teaching, we couldn’t go anywhere
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FEATURE without people talking to them, which I “She was a powerhouse. She was only thought was an incredible achievement.” about 5ft 4in tall but she dressed boldly With the support of her partner, Alex and well. She had a big job as a senior Ayres, Hannah began to build her holistic food buyer for a global company. She Pilates studio and a community around it took care of everything and everybody through monthly events and meet-ups. and had a close circle of friends. “For me, it’s trying to connect everyone,” “She never let cancer stop her – I’ve explains Hannah. “We’ve done walks in known her go from chemo treatment Chatsworth, pottery straight back to the office. painting, lunches. We go But I wish that, just once, for coffees, share book she’d have let herself “FOR ME, IT’S recommendations. We’re just rest. Taken a more TRYING TO a wholesome bunch of holistic approach.” CONNECT girls – though we like Hannah gestures EVERYONE,” a glass of wine and a to her studio: “She’d dance! We call and text. have loved this. This “There are people is for her – it’s in her who would never have met – friendships honour. When I was in a depression, I that wouldn’t have been made – if it wasn’t wasn’t doing anything she’d have been for our community events. We’ve built this proud of. But she would be proud now. community together. It’s come from all of us.” “As an only child, I’m quite happy by Hannah says that Manifesting – a myself. I’ll take myself out for lunch, etc. But theory that we can bring tangible change you still need friends – it’s the gossip, the through positive thoughts, beliefs, supportive chats, the glass of wine in the emotions and actions – has played a sunshine. Do these shoes go with this outfit? major role in her achievements. She Or needing to talk at 3am when life is horrid. hosted her first Manifesting retreat “When I first moved up here, I had day, Move and Manifest, in July. to go and look for things to do. I still “Some people see it as ‘woo-woo’ but do that but now it’s about sharing in essence it’s a business plan for life,” recommendations. And the boys have she adds. “I turned my life around by made friendships too. They’ll hate me saying Manifesting – and it loops back to my mum. this but there’s a boyfriends’ club too!”
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Hannah’s studio. Picture by Lauren Brown @ capturedbyloz_ Editor’s Note: Find out more at @hannahs.house.pilates or www.hannahshousepilates.co.uk
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FEATURE
A FOND FAREWELL TO BARRIE FARNSWORTH THE team at Reflections bids a heartfelt farewell to our long-standing editor, Barrie Farnsworth, as he concludes his time after over 15 years at the helm. Barrie took on the role following the passing of Reflections’ founder, Graham Bannister, and has since guided the magazine through more than 180 issues with care, clarity and enduring commitment. Though he moved away from the area almost a decade ago, Barrie remained rooted in Derbyshire. Throughout his tenure, Barrie has been a passionate ambassador for the area, shining a light on the county’s people, places and past. His keen eye for historical insight, paired with his support for emerging local writing talent, helped further shape Reflections into the much-loved publication it is today. His writing and editing and have been central to our magazine and warmly appreciated by colleagues and readers alike. As Reflections moves into its next chapter, we look forward to welcoming fresh editorial perspectives, building on the solid foundation Barrie helped sustain. We extend our deepest thanks for everything he’s contributed and wish him all the very best for whatever comes next. From all of us, thank you, Barrie.
T he
Garden & Beyond
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HEN Matlock resident Sheila Teagle passed away, her daughter faced the overwhelming task of clearing her mother’s bungalow. Among rows of books destined for recycling, two old black journals were nearly overlooked – until their contents revealed something extraordinary. Now published as The Garden & Beyond, these beautifully illustrated journals capture the essence of a picturesque garden in Bucknell, Shropshire, and its surrounding countryside, offering a rare and heartfelt glimpse into natural life between 1988 and 1991. Sheila’s delicate handwritten entries and simple sketches record daily observations from her garden and walks along the River Redlake: birds nesting, hedgehogs foraging under floodlights, sudden snowfalls, and the hush of changing seasons.
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In 2012, Sheila moved to Matlock, Derbyshire, where she created a new garden that became a haven for visiting birds and nightly badgers. Though she was neither a scientist nor an artist, Sheila was something rarer: a keen observer of the everyday, with a deep reverence for the land she called home. Her words carry the essence of a slower England, still rooted in rhythm, place, and reflection. The Garden & Beyond is more than a nature diary. It is a heartfelt testament to Sheila’s enduring bond with the inspiring environments she cherished throughout her life. Lovingly discovered and preserved, the book is a treasure for anyone who appreciates the beauty of small things and the power of local voices.
Available now from www.bannisterpublications.com, it makes a perfect gift for lovers of the Peak District, gardens, nature writing, or simply finding beauty where others might not think to look.
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INDEPENDENT EDUCATION
FROM CLASSROOM TO CAMBRIDGE
THE INDEPENDENT EDGE
IN the UK, independent schools educate just 6-7% of pupils (rising to 12-17% in sixth form). Yet their results and destinations are nothing short of remarkable. According to the Independent Schools Council (ISC) 2025 Census, 90% of Year 13 pupils progress to higher education, over half of those heading to a “Top 25” university, and 4% securing places at Oxford or Cambridge. Look at the latest admissions
data: Oxford’s 2024 intake was 33.8% independent school students, Cambridge’s 29% – a striking presence given the sector’s modest size. Offer rates, too, remain consistently strong. Why? Independent education offers a unique mix: smaller class sizes, specialist teachers, and an extraordinary co-curricular menu – from orchestras, theatres, and elite sports to the Combined Cadet Force (CCF), where
pupils develop leadership, resilience, and teamwork in partnership with the Armed Forces. It’s hands-on learning that instils confidence for life – whether on parade, on stage, or on the sports field. Students also benefit from tailored university preparation: admissions test coaching, interview practice, and academic enrichment that give them the edge when it matters most. It’s not just about grades. It’s about shaping young people with the skills, character, and
networks that last a lifetime. Whether aiming for Oxbridge, medicine, law, or the creative industries, the independent route provides a well-resourced launchpad to the world’s most competitive courses and careers. For families who value ambition, opportunity, and individual attention, independent education isn’t simply a choice. It’s an investment in a future where the journey from classroom to Cambridge – and beyond – is not just possible, but probable.
sporting venues such as the English Institute of Sport, as well as cultural and scientific institutions that spark curiosity far beyond the classroom. Our vibrant extra-curricular programme, outdoor learning opportunities, and half-termly food bank collections – always
met with remarkable generosity – reflect the spirit of resilience, adventure, and kindness that defines Westbourne. And in an ever-changing world, with a workforce shaped by rapid advances such as AI, we are equipping pupils with the rigour, resilience,
and creativity they need not just to adapt, but to lead. I warmly invite you to experience the Westbourne difference at our Whole School Open Event on Saturday 20th September, 10am–12 noon. Westbourne – where you belong. www.westbourneschool.co.uk
Nurturing Potential at Westbourne School By Mr Edmanson, Headteacher, Westbourne School AS I embark upon the start of my second year as Headteacher at Westbourne School, I could not be prouder of the ambitious, curious learners who make this community so special. Westbourne is a place where academic rigour sits hand in hand with creativity, confidence, and character. From inspiring lessons led by guest speakers – including academics from the University of Sheffield – to our wholeschool celebrations of cultural and national events, our pupils are encouraged to think deeply, act thoughtfully, and see the world with fresh eyes. Sheffield itself enriches their education, offering access to world-class 56 Reflections September 2025
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INDEPENDENT EDUCATION
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INDEPENDENT EDUCATION
S. Anselm’s Balancing excellence with adventure and discovery S. ANSELM’S in Bakewell has recently restructured, offering a new, lower-fee model; scholarship and bursary programmes to ensure SA is for Everyone, Forever. Set in over 20 acres of magnificent Peak District countryside, SA is a day and boarding school for boys and girls from rising 3 to 13 years offering a balanced, enriching education to help each child thrive. The offer across each year is designed to nurture and develop every child through specialist teaching, engaging learning and outstanding facilities. Combining academic excellence and exceptional extracurricular opportunities, S. Anselm’s has built a
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Mr Peter Cook, S. Anselm’s Head strong reputation for giving children the best possible preparation throughout their educational journey, ahead of a move to a senior school that most suits their individual aspirations and ambitions. S. Anselm’s children enjoy their childhood while experiencing an awardwinning school life packed with adventure and discovery. In a world that rushes children to grow up, SA places emphasis on more time to
play; more time to learn and more time to belong. Pupils from S. Anselm’s achieve scholarships, awards and exhibitions at a range of chosen destinations, including some of the most prestigious schools in the country. Headmaster, Mr. Peter Cook, comments: “Choosing the right school for your child is a huge decision; perhaps one of the most important a parent makes. We encourage prospective families to visit S.
Anselm’s to see for themselves everything that we have to offer across our classrooms, our fantastic on-site facilities and exceptional grounds.” Several S. Anselm’s school bus networks are available across the area. For further information please contact office@anselms. co.uk / 01629 812 734 S. Anselm’s School, Stanedge Road, Bakewell, Derbyshire DE45 1DP, www.anselms.co.uk
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INDEPENDENT EDUCATION
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 and support, pupils develop intellectual curiosity, enjoy lessons, gain excellent examination results and are
Birkdale students celebrate their A Level results which saw every exam passed, 95% receiving a place at their choice of university and a third receiving three A grades or higher. well prepared for the future. In 2025 Birkdale students achieved 100% pass rate at A level with 80% of grades A*-B. 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.
INDEPENDENT EDUCATION
Forging Futures at Sheffield Girls’ THE Sixth Form at Sheffield Girls’ has a proven track record of success. The School’s multilayered approach combines pastoral, academic and career support to ensure that every individual is given the opportunity to flourish and succeed in a dynamic, friendly and supportive environment.
With 26 A Level subjects on offer, Sheffield Girls’ Sixth Formers benefit from small class sizes, expert subject specialists and individualised support. Students are treated as the responsible individuals they are, with autonomy to manage their own free time and study schedules within their timetable. In an all-girls environment designed for students to excel, the school’s academic outcomes are exceptional, with 88% of A Level results graded A* to B in 2025. Beyond the curriculum, Sheffield Girls’ exceptional careers support is Platinum Careers Mark accredited, and equips students with the necessary skills and knowledge to explore all Post-18 options, including leading university programmes in the UK and overseas, as well as competitive
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degree apprenticeships. Sheffield Girls’ will be welcoming prospective families to their Sixth Form Open Morning on Saturday 8th November, during which you can meet specialist teaching staff and current students, and discover more about their unique Forging Futures enrichment programme. For more information about Sheffield Girls’ Sixth Form and to register for the Open Morning, visit: sheffieldhighschool.org.uk
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LOCAL BUSINESS
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CHEF'S SIGNATURE DISH
CHATSWORTH FARM FILLET with Vanilla & Peppercorn Sauce, Roscoff Onion, Spring Onion, Smoked Shallot Purée, Potato Purée
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E have a wonderful dish this month from the executive chef of the Cavendish Hotel, Baslow. Executive chef of the Devonshire Hotels and Restaurant Group, Adam Harper showcases the best seasonal ingredients in his menus
– and the Chatsworth Farm beef fillets are simply divine. The Gallery Restaurant at the hotel has no less than three AA Rosettes, testimony to the quality of the ingredients and the chefs. To find out more, go to cavendishhotelbaslow. co.uk or ring 01246 5882311.
PREP TIME: 1 HOUR; COOKTIME: 40 MINUTES
SERVES
4
INGREDIENTS Beef • 4 × 180g Chatsworth Farm beef fillets • Sea salt & freshly cracked black pepper • 1 tbsp neutral oil (rapeseed or vegetable) • 20g unsalted butter • 1 sprig thyme • 1 garlic clove, crushed Vanilla & Peppercorn Sauce • 150ml veal or rich beef stock • 100ml double cream • 1 vanilla pod, split lengthways, seeds scraped • 1 tsp mixed peppercorns (black, green, pink), lightly crushed • 50ml brandy • 1 tsp unsalted butter Roscoff Onion • 2 large Roscoff onions, halved horizontally • Olive oil, for drizzling • 40g fresh breadcrumbs • 20g Parmesan, finely grated • 10g flat-leaf parsley, finely chopped • 10g chives, finely chopped • 15g unsalted butter, melted Spring Onion • 8 baby spring onions, trimmed but left whole • Olive oil, for brushing • Sea salt Potato Purée • 600g Maris Piper potatoes, peeled and cut into even chunks • 150g unsalted butter, diced and chilled • 150ml whole milk, warmed • Sea salt 62 Reflections September 2025
Smoked Shallot Purée • 300g banana shallots, peeled and halved • Olive oil, for drizzling • Sea salt • 50ml double cream • 25g unsalted butter • Small handful applewood chips (or similar), for smoking Herb Oil (for garnish) • 50g parsley • 50g spinach leaves • 100ml rapeseed oil
METHOD Potato Purée • Place potatoes in cold salted water, bring to a gentle boil, and cook until tender (15–20 mins). • Drain, pass through a ricer or fine sieve. • Over low heat, stir in chilled butter, then add warm milk gradually until smooth and glossy. Season to taste. Keep warm. Roscoff Onion • Preheat oven to 180°C. • Drizzle cut sides of onions with olive oil and season. Roast, cut side down, on a lined tray for 25–30 minutes until caramelised. • Mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan, parsley, chives, and melted butter. • Turn onions cut-side up, top with breadcrumb mix, and bake for a further 8–10 minutes until golden.
Right: Executive chef Adam Harper (left) showing a chef how to prepare the dish. Spring Onion • Brush spring onions with oil and season. • Char in a hot griddle pan or under a grill until lightly blistered. Keep warm. Herb Oil • Blanch parsley and spinach in boiling water for 30 seconds, then refresh in ice water. • Drain, squeeze dry, and blend with oil until vibrant green. Pass through a fine sieve. Smoked Shallot Purée • Preheat oven to 160°C. • Place shallots on a baking tray, drizzle with olive oil, season, and cover with foil. Roast for 35–40 minutes until soft and sweet. • While still warm, place in a heatproof container, cover loosely, and smoke with applewood chips for 5–6 minutes (using a smoking gun or covered BBQ). • Transfer smoked shallots to a blender, add cream and butter, and blend until silky smooth. Pass through a fine sieve. Keep warm. Vanilla & Peppercorn Sauce • Toast crushed peppercorns gently in a pan for 30 seconds. • Add brandy, flambé or reduce by half. • Add stock, cream, vanilla seeds and pod, and reduce until sauce coats the back of a spoon. • Remove vanilla pod, whisk in butter, season lightly. Keep warm.
Beef Fillet • Season fillets well with salt and pepper. • Heat a heavy pan over high heat, add oil, and sear fillets for 2–3 minutes each side for mediumrare (adjust as desired). • In final minute, add butter, thyme, and garlic, basting the beef. • Rest five minutes before serving. Plating • Swipe smoked shallot purée across the plate. • Place potato purée slightly off-centre. • Rest beef fillet over part of the purée. • Position the Roscoff onion alongside, topped with the charred spring onion. • Spoon vanilla & peppercorn sauce beneath and around the beef. • Finish with dots of herb oil for freshness and colour.
CHEF'S TIP Smoke the shallots gently — too much and it will overpower the vanilla in the sauce. Warm plates are key so the purées and sauce keep their texture on service.
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FIGARO – WINGERWORTH’S VIBRANT VEGGIE HUB
A
T the heart of Wingerworth, Figaro has become more than a bistro - it’s a community hub. Now offering vegetarian dishes as well as vegan, Figaro is run by owner Rowan Adlington, with head chef Paris and Justyna curating fresh seasonal dishes in the kitchen and the warm welcome provided by Milly, Frankie and
Laura at front of house. It’s a and 14th November place where food, friends, and • Late opening on last weekend community come together. of every month from The menu celebrates plantOctober - extended hours based and vegetarian creativity, with entertainment, bistro with an eclectic selection of nights, and craft beers. enticing breakfasts, brunches, • Seasonal menus and and seasonal lunch specials. special events - always Lunchtime choices might include something new to enjoy. tofu satay skewers, panini • A learn to crochet event on with salad, burgers or twice Tuesday 16th September baked potatoes with daal and 2025 – 5.30pm-7.30pm. Adults hummus. The drinks list is equally and children welcome impressive - from speciality coffees and kombucha to shakes, craft beers to fine wines and a stunning range of teas. A firm favourite? The carrot and pistachio cake, often the talk of the table. Figaro is dog-friendly, perfect for walkers and locals alike, and everything is available to take away too.
From brunch with friends to a lunchtime catch up, as well as special events and the opportunity to hire for a function, Figaro is the venue that does it all. Allendale Rd, Wingerworth, Chesterfield, S42 6PX T: 01246 601163, E: figarowingerworth@gmail.com Opening Hours: Wed -Sat 9am-4pm, Sun 10am4pm, Mon & Tue closed
EXCITING THINGS ARE ON THE HORIZON: • Friday Pizza Nights with Pizza Pi - launching on three special dates: Friday 19th September, 17th October,
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FOOD REVIEW
ROBIN HOOD AND HIS MERRY MENU
D
ATING back to as early as the 1840s, The Robin Hood Inn is a characterful country pub on the outskirts of Baslow. Steeped in tradition and warm hospitality, this haven for walkers and discerning diners is owned by The Beagrie Group. As you’d expect from a Beagrie Group dining destination, the Robin Hood has earned an enviable reputation for good quality wholesome food with a freshness that appeals to hikers, locals, and tourists who flock to this beacon of dining excellence. Blending rustic charm with modern comfort, the Robin Hood offers locals and visitors a welcoming haven to relax, dine, and savour the best of Derbyshire’s locally sourced food. At the Robin Hood Inn, food is freshly prepared, sourced from the surrounding area – wherever possible, and cooked fresh to order, showcasing the chef’s passion for flavour and quality. Head chef Nelson oversees the menus with skill and a deep understanding of his clientele. Whilst discerning diners frequent this pub/restaurant, walkers make up the majority of the footfall. Birchen Edge, Baslow Edge, the Robin Hood Circular, Froggatt Edge, Curbar Edge, and White Edge are all popular local hikes. With so much natural beauty on the doorstep, is it any wonder walkers flock here in their droves? Alongside sous-chef David Cousins and breakfast chef Nigel Thorpe, Nelson 64 Reflections September 2025
has stamped his own mark on the menu, creating a rich tapestry of wholesome fare with a lightness perfect for passing hikers. In winter, rustic game pies warm weary wanderers. In summer, superfood salads, a ham hock to die for, rib-eye steaks, sweet potato curry, and vegetable kebabs keep things appropriately light for the season. Hailing from Nigeria and having studied International Business Management at Sheffield Hallam University, Nelson brings both depth and breadth of experience to the kitchen. Though only here a couple of years, he has already made his mark on the local dining scene. His care, honesty, and sheer enthusiasm underpin the ethos of the food offering. Guests can look forward to Nigerian influences appearing slowly on the Specials Board – a tantalising prospect for the future. Nelson knows his market and the Robin Hood’s loyal clientele, yet a signature dish with Nigerian flair would be a welcome surprise. We began with charred baby broccoli with Hollandaise sauce, poached egg, and crispy onions, plus calamari with sriracha mayo, spring onions, and pickled shallots. The broccoli had bite – just the right amount. The richness of the poached egg combined beautifully with the lightness of the Hollandaise, while the onion added crunch. Balanced, tasty, wholesome – yet light.
Calamari can so easily be rubbery – but not here. Cooked to perfection, it offered freshness, tenderness, and a pleasing kick from the sauce, while the onion provided texture and tang. On to the eagerly anticipated mains. Looking for something to blow your taste buds away? Try the glazed ham hock. Braised for seven hours, pulled, rolled, and honey-glazed, this dish is a work of art. Hugely popular with walkers, it combines salty and sweet, with charred pineapple adding tang, fried eggs – perfectly cooked – adding richness, and chunky chips with salad completing the plate. The superfood salad was nothing short of spectacular. Spinach, mango, quinoa, charred broccoli, beetroot, cashews, seed crumble, and blueberry yoghurt dressing created a colourful chorus of flavours. Fruits added sweet, sour, and tart notes – with the yoghurt countering perfectly. The glazed vegetable kebab was a revelation. Large chunks of squash, aubergine, bell pepper, courgette, onion, and pineapple were flame-grilled to perfection. Served with heritage tomato salad and fries, the dish delivered flavour, texture, and satisfaction in abundance. Room for dessert? Of course. The chocolate brownie and Oreo Eton Mess were indulgent but not overpowering. The brownie’s lightness surprised, with raspberry flavouring adding a clever To advertise call 01246 550488
twist. Nostalgic, decadent, yet easy on the palate. The Oreo Eton Mess was proof that freshly made meringue makes all the difference. Light, sweet, with a raspberry kick and cream to bind it all together – it was a perfect finale. At the Robin Hood Inn, the ethos is on honesty and care. Every dish has been curated by Nelson with attention to harmony and detail. Front of house is led by Matt, whose warmth, calmness, and charisma coordinate service effortlessly. Speciality nights are hugely popular – and for good reason. Tuesday is burger night – the dirty burger a standout favourite. Wednesday is pie night – with steak and ale the signature, alongside lamb, potato and mint or Stilton and spinach. Thursday is steak night – with cuts cooked exactly to your liking. Sunday lunches are extremely popular. Up to 270 covers are served every Sunday – that’s just how renowned these have become! Beef, leg of lamb, loin of pork, and roast chicken are all on offer, as is the delicious Mediterranean wellington. As we discovered with the meals we were served, there is a plethora of vegetarian and vegan options, and many of the dishes on the menu are gluten free. The Robin Hood Inn is a must-visit
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— whether walker, diner, local, tourist, or simply a lover of home-cooked food, freshly sourced and honestly served. THE ROBIN HOOD INN Chesterfield Road, Baslow, Derbyshire, DE45 1PQ T: 01629 700888 E: info@robinhoodbaslow.co.uk www.robinhoodbaslow
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LOCAL BUSINESS
Enjoy more at The Peacock at Rowsley – Now More Welcoming Than Ever
T
HE The Peacock at Rowsley is excited to reintroduce Sunday lunch with a fresh approach. While the food, quality and care remain topnotch, the atmosphere is now more down-to-earth, making it a perfect choice whether you’re celebrating something special or just enjoying a casual weekend meal.
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The new menu is built around seasonal ingredients and classic flavours, with a focus on simplicity and taste. The kitchen team, now led by a talented group of chefs who’ve worked across some of the region’s best kitchens, have created a menu that’s both comforting and refined. The Sunday lunch is a three-course set menu, featuring dishes like:
• House-smoked salmon with oyster
mayo, cucumber, seaweed and lime
• Roast Derbyshire beef sirloin
with glazed carrot, Roscoff onion and rich house gravy • Roast local pork belly with stuffing, parsnip, Hispi cabbage and apple sauce • Prune and Armagnac Bakewell tart with clotted cream ice cream
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LOCAL BUSINESS All roasts come with Yorkshire pudding, roast potatoes and cauliflower cheese. The full menu includes a variety of starters, mains and desserts, all made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The meat is from New Close Farm at Over Haddon—a family-run business known for its high standards and their ethical and sustainable farming. But it’s not just about the food. The team at The Peacock want Sunday lunch to be an experience that feels relaxed and enjoyable. Whether you’re sitting by the fire in winter or enjoying the garden in summer, the setting is designed to help you slow down and savour the moment. In addition to Sunday lunch, The Peacock now offers a more accessible dining experience across the board. Recognising that not everyone is looking for La pièce de resistance every lunchtime and evening, seven days a week, the venue has introduced new options that cater to a wider range of tastes and budgets. These include lighter bites, vegetarian and gluten-free dishes, and a more flexible approach to dining times and group bookings. For those seeking a refined yet unpretentious midday escape, their lunchtime offering delivers a perfect blend of quality and ease. Thoughtfully curated by a team of passionate chefs, the menu showcases seasonal ingredients sourced from trusted local suppliers, with each dish crafted to highlight freshness, flavour, and finesse. Items include inventive sandwiches, fresh salads and even the return of fish & chips. Don’t be afraid just to pop in, as everyone is always welcome. Afternoon Tea is also available from Tuesday to Saturday, between 12:00 and 3:00 pm. It’s a relaxed and elegant experience, served in the restaurant, lounge or garden, and includes handmade cakes, pastries, freshly baked bread and butter, house-smoked salmon, and the signature venison
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sausage rolls. Gluten-free options are available, and guests can add a glass of Champagne, English sparkling wine or Franciacorta to make it extra special. The Peacock at Rowsley offers beautifully appointed private dining rooms that blend historic charm with discreet luxury. Ideal for special celebrations, business lunches, or elegant gatherings, each space provides a sense of exclusivity while maintaining the relaxed, welcoming atmosphere the hotel is known for. Guests can enjoy bespoke menus crafted by the award-winning kitchen team, with every detail tailored to suit the occasion – from seasonal dishes to carefully selected wines. Whether it’s a quiet lunch for a few or a larger private event, the experience is defined by exceptional service, exquisite food, and a setting that feels both personal and memorable. The Peacock’s team is committed to making every visit enjoyable, whether you’re popping in for tea or settling in for a full Sunday roast. The goal is simple: great food, a warm welcome, and a setting that makes you want to stay a little longer.
For bookings and more information Visit thepeacockatrowsley. com or contact enjoymore@ thepeacockatrowsley.com. Find menus and details here: https://thepeacockatrowsley. com/dine/ The Peacock at Rowsley, Bakewell Road, Rowsley, Derbyshire, DE4 2EB T: 01629 733 518 e: reception@ thepeacockatrowsley.com www.thepeacockatrowsley.com
67 Reflections September 2025
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about being right in the fire noise (7)
global? Keep truckin’! (4,5)
in Canada proposal (8)
with grits all drawn out (10)
organization to bar courtly activities (6,4) about by raising (8)
ACROSS DOWN 5 Sprint round to the front 2 It’s ended in controversy! (4) of the nursery (3) 3 Stay clear of one’s 6 The primate’s copy? (3) hunting instincts (4) 10 A good start, but in the past (3) 8 Unmanly, and not my way to invalidate (5) 11 Net coin values can get unpleasant (3,4) 14 Spring is a strange sort of loci (4) 12 Make a mistake in terrible writing (3) 15 Neurosis that’s got currency? (4) 16 Immunity, providing a little tertiary education (3) 17 Badger the old horse, eh George? (3) 1
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ACROSS 1 Jammy, therefore in bother round here (6) 3 Lofty morning somewhere near Shirland? (6) 7 How to sort out our hills? (4) 8 Strange bit in the morning in Chesterfield parish (10) 10 Aim to be a crooked one in Chesterfield? (6) 11 Ah! Lamely (and badly) being top spot in plague village (4,4) 12 A village I mistook for a road! (3,6) 13 Test failure? Let it stand! (4) 15 Laugh with a car horn? (4) 16 Bruno? He’s a wreck in W Derbyshire! (9) 19 More hare-brained that citrates in solution (8) 20 Bowl, as made in village just north of Chatsworth (6) 22 Prayer for some simple action (4) 23 Boring sort of place to sow seeds? (5) 24 Don’t open with a preposition (4) 25 Instrument, they say, of a deceiver (4) 26 Craven folly to follow speed well, allegedly (6)
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Name:............................................................ Address:................................................ ...................................................................................................................................... ...................................................................................................................................... .................................................................. Telephone:................................................ We will give a prize of £25 to a randomly-drawn correctly completed crossword. Cut out the completed puzzle and send by September 22nd, 2025, to: Bannister Publications Limited, Office 2A Market Hall, Market Hall, Chesterfield, Derbyshire, S40 1AR. The solutions for the August 2025 crossword can Crossword by Prof Rebus be found on page 98 of this issue.
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69 Reflections September 2025
PICTURE COMPETITION
World championship hen races! H
UNDREDS of spectators turned up for the World Champion Hen Races at the Barley Mow pub’s car park, Bonsall, on August 2. The pub closed for a few days after that, and we don’t blame them! The picture was taken by Andy Hanna, of Great Longstone, and was an entry into our 2025 ‘Derbyshire’s Events & Attractions’ competition. Russ Teale of Newbold took this picture of beautiful
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Thornbridge Hall on July 28. There is also a ‘Thornbridge Love Locker’ there, which houses all the locks removed from the weir footbridge in Bakewell, and was snapped by Brian Smith, of Upper Newbold, who says: “There was an interesting exhibition in the adjacent cafe, explaining how these locks found their way to Thornbridge, together with instructions of how individuals can locate their own special lock.”
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Guy Pinder, of Stonegravels, Chesterfield, was cycling past this Ault Hucknall cottage in early August, which he thought looked like Miss Marple’s cottage in the Agatha Christie books. Who are we to argue, Guy! Sue Nash, of Ashgate, Chesterfield, went to Ashover Show on August 13, and took this picture. She says: “I love the pink tongues of the hounds!”
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PICTURE COMPETITION
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Troway Hall, taken on July 23 by Alison Parker, of Clay Cross, who says: “Beautiful hall, garden and stunning views. It also has The Beestro Honey Cafe.” Next, a picture of the glorious Cromford steam rally in early August, taken by Russ Teale, of Newbold. Finally, a tour party waiting to enter one of the caves at Creswell Crags, taken in July by Brian Smith, of Upper Newbold.
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The picture(s) you send co.uk, giving your full name into the competition must be and address, a contact taken in 2025 and must be in telephone number and a Derbyshire; and you can enter description (including the as many times as you like. We date it was taken) of the want entries from amateur image, which should be snappers – commercial attached as a high-res jpeg. photographers are barred – The winner will receive and drone images, or pictures a meal for two at a top altered beyond recognition local restaurant, plus the via software like Photoshop, chance to have a selection will not be accepted. of their images published Please email your in Reflections. Deadline for entries to editor@ entries is noon on Monday, bannisterpublications. October 13, 2025. B.S
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71 Reflections September 2025
FASHION
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EMBRACE THE LAYERS AS WE STEP INTO AUTUMN FOR A SMART SOLUTION TO THOSE WEATHER WARDROBE WOES, SAYS AMY NORBURY.
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UTUMN’S arrival rarely announces itself with certainty. One moment, there’s a chill in the air sharp enough to see your breath; the next, you’re squinting through sunshine and wondering why you wore a coat. Dressing for this most temperamental of seasons is less about following strict rules and more about strategy. And at the heart of that strategy? Layering. Transitional dressing can feel like navigating a sartorial minefield. A structured wool coat might seem sensible for a frosty morning start, but come the evening commute, it’s less “street 72 Reflections September 2025
style” and more “sweating in transit.” Meanwhile, deceptively clear skies can lull even the most seasoned dressers into leaving outerwear behind – only for the heavens to open without warning. So how do you curate a wardrobe that works with the unpredictability, not against it? The key is to build looks that evolve with the weather. Lightweight layers – think fine knits, cotton shirting, lightweight jackets – offer the kind of flexibility no single piece ever could. You’re not locking yourself into a look; you’re giving yourself options. Once the quiet classic of your grandma’s Continued on 74
1. Rosemary Cape, £139, and Melody Scarf, £34.95, Barbour. Available at Barbour.com 2. Layla suede fringe bag, £65, Joe Browns. www.joebrowns.co.uk 3. Cassie blouse, £75, John Lewis & Partners Barrel leg jean, £69, and Flattered Leather hair dot shoe, £225, all John Lewis. www.johnlewis.com 4. Brown Stripe Wide Trousers, £22, and Sage Cable Jumper, £22, Louise Redknapp for Peacocks. www.peacocks.co.uk
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73 Reflections September 2025
FASHION Continued from 72 wardrobe, the cardigan is now a bona fide fashion mainstay. Reimagined in a plethora of ways, from cropped silhouettes to effortlessly louche, bold textures to intricate detailing, the humble cardi is a layering must. Worn draped over a dress, tucked into highwaisted denim, or layered beneath a trench, it’s the unsung hero of the modern transitional wardrobe. Outerwear, too, demands a rethink. The days of lugging around a weighty winter coat “just in case” are over. Instead, reach for outer layers that work harder: a belted trench – equal parts practical and polished– or a sharply tailored longline blazer that brings structure without the bulk. Layer over a turtleneck,
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under a sleeveless coat, or style solo with wide-leg trousers for effortless elegance. And don’t be too quick to retire your summer favourites. The T-shirt dress is a transitional staple with plenty of runway potential, even as the temperature dips. Pair with knee-high boots, crisp striped shirts and layered knits for a fresh lease of life well into autumn. In the end, transitional style isn’t about compromise –it’s about creativity. Think layers, embrace versatility, and let your wardrobe rise to the occasion, whatever the weather decides to do.
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5. Grey and white button-up striped shirt, £55, Oliver Bonas. 6. Long heeled boot, £125, FatFace. www.fatface.com 7. Black and Brown Check Wool Blend Jacket, £100, Oliver Bonas. www.oliverbonas.com
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potential customers contact Derbyshire’s largestcirculation lifestyle magazine
contact Mike Snow on 07966 445452 or Helen Wragg on 07973 672582 Reflections has been established for over 30 years
74 Reflections September 2025
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75 Reflections September 2025
BOOKS
TOMBSTONES OF THE DEAD YEARS
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mong the belongings of her late grandfather, Victor Wentworth, Derbyshire resident, Sandra Forsyth, uncovered a remarkable set of wartime journals. Within their fading pages she discovered a voice: quiet, defiant, and deeply observant, speaking from within the barbed wire of Japanese prisoner-of-war camps. Now published as Tombstones of the Dead Years, these journals form a powerful, first-hand account of captivity, survival, and endurance between 1942 and 1945. Written against all odds while interned at Blakang Mati, Changi, and other camps across Southeast Asia, Victor’s diaries combine raw detail with moments of tenderness, resilience, and even flashes of humour. His writing captures the contradictions of camp life, from extreme privation to rare instances of mental stimulation and companionship,
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descriptions that only close involvement could make possible. Sandra’s tireless transcription and careful preservation bring his words to light with extraordinary care. The book is not just a family legacy but a national one, honouring both her grandfather’s voice and the thousands who lived and died in silence. Complementing the text are illustrations by fellow POW Des Bettany, whose expressive, sometimes darkly humorous artwork provides a striking visual echo of the hardships endured. Tombstones of the Dead Years stands as a work of witness, an unflinching record of humanity under pressure, and a moving tribute to a generation that endured what most cannot imagine. Now available from www. bannisterpublications.com.
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77 Reflections September 2025
FEATURE
DERBYSHIRE CCC WIN COUNTY CHAMPIONSHIP ONCE ONLY
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ERBYSHIRE have only lifted the County Championship trophy on one occasion. It was in 1936 and it was a remarkable achievement, writes John Stone. The team was almost entirely homeproduced. Fourteen of the fifteen professionals on the books were born in the county. As it happened, the fifteenth man was born in Liverpool, but to a Derbyshire family and he was brought up in the county. To put out such a homespun team and be competitive at county level is a notable achievement in itself. For that team to turn out to be the best in the land almost defies belief. ‘Remarkable’ is simply not a strong enough word. It might never have happened. Derbyshire, as a cricket-playing county, might well not even have existed by 1936. On several occasions in the early years of the 20th century the club came within a hair’s breadth of financial oblivion. Matters on the field were no better. In 1920 the club played 18 matches. 17 were lost and the other game was abandoned without a 78 Reflections September 2025
ball being bowled. There had been little or no improvement by 1924. Derbyshire remained winless and firmly rooted at the foot of the championship table. And yet by the end of that decade, Derbyshire suddenly had the makings of a strong side. Despite its ongoing financial predicament, and to its eternal credit, the county club had continued to fund a nursery and had been blessed with a sudden intake of highly promising youngsters from the local area. Former player, Sam Cadman, had been appointed County Coach in 1926 and this proved to be a masterstroke. Cadman’s work with Derbyshire was so impressive that he subsequently became internationally sought after – particularly in South Africa. Sam Cadman’s fingerprints were all over Derbyshire’s dramatic improvement and its eventual championship triumph. In the 1933 season, Derbyshire rose to the dizzy height of sixth in the championship table. They were third in 1934, runners-up in 1935 – rising ultimately to the summit in 1936. Writing on the 50th anniversary of the triumph, John Arlott concluded
Left: The 1936 team. Pictured are, back row from left, Harry Elliott, Leslie Townsend, Bill Copson, Harry Parker (scorer), Alf Pope, Denis Smith, Charlie Elliott; front row from left, Harry Storer, Stan Worthington, Arthur Richardson (capt), Tommy Mitchell and Albert Alderman. that “Derbyshire were undoubtedly the strongest – and their opponents would say the hardest – side in the 1936 competition”. According to Arlott, Derbyshire “made the cricket bristle with competition. Shall we ever see a side of quite such gladiatorial quality in the English county game again? There is no sign of it”, he wrote.
HOW THEY DID IT
Historically, Derbyshire have always been a stronger bowling side than a batting unit and the 1936 Championship team respected this tradition fully. The fast bowlers Bill Copson and Alf Pope were wonderfully complemented by the leg spin and googlies of Tommy Mitchell. By way of an indication To advertise call 01246 550488
FEATURE of the side’s batting limitations, it was the all-rounders Les Townsend and Stan Worthington who headed the run scoring charts. As the famous cricketing almanac, Wisden, explained “Magnificent bowling – they possessed the deadliest and most varied attack in the country – teamwork rather than individual brilliance and a will-to-win spirit” carried Derbyshire to the title. Wisden made an interesting point about the batting limitations. “Paradoxically though it may appear, this very weakness influenced Derbyshire’s triumph. Had the side put together big totals, their bowlers would never have found the time or opportunity to get rid of opponents for reasonably small scores”.
THE SKIPPER
The Derbyshire captain, Arthur Richardson, an amateur player as was the way at the time, drew fulsome praise in the sports columns of the day for his handling of the bowling attack and, in particular the management of his star paceman, Bill Copson. Copson had endured a combination of injury and indifferent health throughout his career but he was expertly nursed to 140 Championship wickets in 1936 by his captain. It cannot be overstated how crucial this was to Derbyshire’s success.
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In a nod to ‘going out at the top’, Richardson never played first-class cricket again after Derbyshire’s final game of that wonderful summer, choosing instead to return to the family business in Derby. Richardson’s batting record was no better than modest although he played several important innings in 1936, most often when Derbyshire backs were against the wall. But, crucially, he enjoyed the complete respect and loyalty of his players. A typical example was the reaction of the persevering pace bowler Alf Pope who frequently found himself doing the hard yards when the opposition batsmen were enjoying a flat wicket and the captain felt it was appropriate to shield Bill Copson. As Richardson reflected years later “I would sometimes tell Alf that he might have to bowl until close of play and he would just say; ‘Don’t worry skipper - I like bowling’ and come bounding in for hours”. Speaking at the end-of-season reception at Derby Drill Hall, Richardson was fulsome in his praise for his team: “In front of you now, I thank my side for the wonderful way in which they backed me up. Whenever I asked the team for extra effort in a crisis it was always forthcoming. This was a team which never gave up and were never beaten until the last run had been scored.”
It is close to 90 years since Derbyshire’s triumph in 1936 but for those who know their Derbyshire cricket history, the name Arthur Richardson still looms large. He died in 1983 as Derbyshire hosted Kent at Chesterfield. The flag was lowered to halfmast for the duration of the match. Amongst Richardson’s most treasured possessions was a silver cigarette case presented to him by the players at the conclusion of the 1936 season. The simple inscription read: ‘To the Skipper, from the lads’.
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ANTIQUES
SERENE LANDSCAPES SHOW CONSTABLE’S INFLUENCE
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ONSTABLE’S landscapes are quintessentially English – and through the years, other artists have been influenced by him, including the de Breanski father and son. The painting of Tavy Cleave in Dartmoor we have pictured, is an example of a Constablesque landscape, and it made £920 in the specialist auction. Alfred de Bréanski Sr (1852-1928) and his eldest son, Alfred Fontville de Bréanski Jr, (1877-1957), were prolific British landscapists whose works bridged late-Victorian romanticism and early 20thcentury naturalism. The influence of Constable is evident in their works. The father, exhibiting at the Royal Academy from 1872, and became celebrated for Highland and Welsh vistas as well as
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By Vivienne Milburn FRICS Independent Antiques Auctioneer & Valuer
Right: The Constablesquestyle oil painting by Alfred De Breanski Jr, at Tavy Cleave, on Dartmoor, with a fisherman in the distance. It made £920 in a recent specialist auction. Below inset: Alfred De Breanski Jr signed his Tavy Cleave painting on the back.
tranquil reaches of the Thames. His commercial success was considerable, and it has a strong ‘afterlife’ on the auction market. Both artists also painted in Derbyshire, leaving a thread that ties their output to the Peak District. For the elder Bréanski, early work such as ‘Matlock, River Derwent, Derbyshire’ (1873) places his trademark silvery light and cattle-dotted banks on the Derwent. The auction records for his paintings show results over £20,000 for large pictures painted in the glow of evening light. For the son, Derbyshire appears in views like ‘Riber Castle and the Derwent from Matlock Bridge’, a signed canvas dating to circa 1930 that locates the painter on the 15th-century Matlock (Derwent) Bridge; evidence that he, too, admired the county’s picturesqueness. At auction, the family name consistently draws interest. Auction precedents show Senior’s realised prices ranging from modest sums to high five figures, depending on size, subject and condition; Junior, likewise remains active in the auction market with a
steady output. A particularly evocative subject for the younger Bréanski is Dartmoor’s Tavy Cleave, which is a dramatic, tors-studded gorge where the River Tavy narrows into cascading pools. His oil ‘Tavy Cleave, Dartmoor’ made £920, showing its appeal to collectors. Tavy Cleave is renowned as a wild-swimming destination: “the clear pool is gorgeous, surrounded by towering tors that give you that wonderful feeling of being dwarfed by nature; cascades and rock shelves that makes it especially picturesque.” Taken together, the Bréanskis’ Derbyshire views, dramatic Highlands and river idylls map a family lineage of light and water that still resonates at auction. Editor’s Note: If you require a valuation, it is worth getting the advice of an Independent Antiques Valuer to assess your works of art and antiques. For further information, contact Vivienne Milburn on 07870 238788 or 01629 640210. Alternatively, go to www.viviennemilburn. co.uk or email vivienne@ viviennemilburn.co.uk To advertise call 01246 550488
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81 Reflections August 2025
SPOTLIGHT ON THE ARTS
New Mills Art Trail
this month…
NEW Mills Festival is delighted to announce the return of the Art Trail for 2025, which will take place across the town from September 12-28. It transforms the town into a gallery featuring 70 artists in nearly 60 venues. More than 50 local companies are taking part, displaying the artists’ work in windows in different shops and businesses. All the art works on display can be viewed on foot whilst taking in the town’s historic heritage sites and places of interest! Joanna Allen, Art Trail coordinator, says: “The curated Trail will take you on a journey through New Mills showcasing a broad range of high-quality art. We are lucky to have so many exciting local and regional artists taking part…and one international artist! This year we have painters, photographers, puppet makers, jewellers, printmakers, 3D work and textile artists; there really is something for everybody.” The free New Mills Festival Brochure also includes an Art Trail Map to help you plan your route. Other events include the first ever New Mill Open Art exhibition, to be held at the Milestone Gallery for the duration of the festival. There will be a selection of participating artists’ artworks, prints and cards available from the Pop-Up Festival shop, which will be at the Rock Mill Centre. More information is available at https:// newmillsfestival.co.uk and Facebook page.
A daytime club for grown-ups! CHESTERFIELD is about to join one of the UK’s hottest trends – daytime clubbing for grown-ups. On Saturday, December 13, Real Time Live will host the town’s very first Daytime 90s Reunion Xmas
A window during the New Mills Art Trail last year. Picture by Andrea Joseph.
Party, giving partygoers the chance to relive the soundtrack of their youth without the late-night hangover. This nostalgic celebration runs from 3pm to 7pm, so you can dance to ‘90s anthems, belt out the classics, and still be home in time for Strictly. Expect a playlist packed with Britpop, boybands, and all the tunes that defined the decade – plus festive cheer and a few Christmas surprises. Early bird tickets are just £10. So dust off your dancing shoes, grab your mates, and make this Christmas one to remember – without staying up past midnight. It’s for 18 years olds and older. Early bird tickets at: https://bit.ly/90sDaytime PartyChesterfieldDec2025 Left: A previous ‘90s night at Real Time Live.
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‘SECRET FREEDOMS’ PROJECT THE Level Centre at Rowsley is one of 80 venues across the UK taking part in a project called ‘Our Freedom: Then & Now’, which aims to bring community-based events into arts centres and libraries to mark the 80th anniversary of the end of Word War Two. As part of this project, Level Centre will focus on ‘Secret Freedoms’ and will be exploring the role our disabled and learning disabled community played during and after WWII – and how the freedoms of those who are disabled and learning disabled are often secretive to this day. If you have any stories to share, they would love to hear them. The Level Centre will celebrate the importance of these stories with an artistic project, and a week-long celebration of Secret Freedoms in October. Watch the website levelcentre.com to find out how you can be involved. To advertise call 01246 550488
One of the paintings produced by a member of the Phoenix Art Group this year.
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83 Reflections September 2025
OUT & ABOUT
BAKEWELL BUSINESSWOMAN BRINGS GUIDED
PILGRIMAGES TO DERBYSHIRE
This year’s National Heritage Open Week theme may be architecture, but Tideswell’s ‘Cathedral of the Peak’ will be offering more than a building tour this September; as new minister Rev Fiona Kouble and local guide Faye Smith have teamed up to bring guided pilgrimages to this beautiful part of the world. Fiona Stubbs reports.
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OTHIC masterpiece, St John the Baptist Church at Tideswell, is ‘mother’ to another three churches and sister to another parish church
in Wormhill, all opening their doors to pilgrims and visitors alike in Heritage Week, September 12 to 21. “We were already aware of local church communities Faye and the Rev Fiona outside Wormhill Church.
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Pilgrim guide Faye Smith.
creating some outstanding marketing and PR practice long-distance self-guided Faye founded six years pilgrimages around the county, ago – following the tragic such as the Hope and Peak deaths of her husband and Pilgrimages and the Peak daughter a few years before – a Wesleyan Way,” says Rev relationship breakdown and the Fiona, and my predecessor had death of her father just as the asked a church member who pandemic struck was the final was a keen walker to create a straw for her mental health. day pilgrimage route around Faye became so unwell, the five churches in Tideswell she joined a unique specialist benefice a couple of years ago: trauma recovery community Cressbrook, in coastal Kent Litton, for a sabbatical. Miller’s Dale ““IT WAS THE BEST Initially she was and Wormhill. to stay for six THING I COULD There months, but due wasn’t the to the pandemic HAVE DONE,” resource and the benefits, FAYE RECALLS. to promote Faye stayed for it, so when over two years. Faye joined “It was the the church fresh from walking best thing I could have done,” the world-famous Camino Faye recalls. “Alongside the to Santiago in northern psychotherapeutic trauma Spain last autumn, they recovery techniques I was discussed the idea of formally learning, during lockdown I launching the 8.5-mile discovered the healing power pilgrimage along the same of long-distance walking and lines, with a pilgrim passport swimming. The result was and badge of completion. a business I called ‘Hope “Our wardens were all keen, Walking’, which I launched as I so national Heritage Open moved out after a lifetime living Week in September this year in Sheffield to the Peak District seemed like the perfect time to over two years ago now.” launch our Parish Pilgrimage.” Faye has since guided Now a trained walk pilgrimages as diverse as the leader, pilgrimage guide and World Heritage site around bereavement befriender, it’s Canterbury Cathedral, and the a world away from running Pilgrim’s Way along the North the busy Sheffield charity Down. She has spoken widely To advertise call 01246 550488
OUT & ABOUT © CROWN COPYRIGHT, 11/2022, ORDNANCE SURVEY 200314.
A is St John the Baptist Church, Tideswell.
in the media about the healing power of walking in nature and her grief-and-loss walks which have been featured on TV and radio, including The One Show and Woman’s Hour. Having moved to Bakewell, this is Faye’s first Derbyshire pilgrimage. “I have called the Tideswell Pilgrimage ‘Mills and Martyrs’”, Faye explains, “because Tideswell benefice has a fascinating story connected with both the Elizabethan Padley Martyrs and the tragic treatment of the Victorian Litton orphan child millworkers – some of whom are buried in the churchyard – which many say inspired Dickens storyline for Oliver Twist. “I always emphasise one absolutely does not need to have any particular faith to gain the proven holistic benefits of a Pilgrimage. I share a wide variety of historical, therapeutic and nature insights from buildings and trees to ancient customs… we all bring and respect our own beliefs.”
HOW WALKING SAVED FAYE… FAYE Smith said: “My new venture, Hope Walking, has grown out of my own experience of the restorative impact of walking – as I struggled with, and eventually came to terms with, a series of challenging life circumstances. Growing up on the edge of the stunning Peak District National Park, I always enjoyed walking in nature, but I only discovered the deeply therapeutic power of ‘walking myself well’ after my marriage broke down and I endured a succession of bereavements. My daughter Gabi’s tragic loss came two years to the day after her father had died and the story became national news. Determined not to resort to medication, walking became an increasingly important part of my life pretty much every weekend. Several women friends were going through their own
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difficult experiences: some were separating or divorced and without their children at weekends; some had other caring responsibilities; some were bereaved, some facing empty nest, menopause and health issues. One by one, they asked to join me, and my first Sunday morning women’s walking group grew and grew. As we walked, the natural environment and the rhythm of our movement would start to work its magic; we talked, sharing what we felt comfortable with; we listened and supported each other; we started to feel more resilient, able to cope and to know that we would come through safely and indeed stronger. Time and again, walking has been the means to recovery of my own mental and physical health, enabling me to find hope, strength and a new belief in myself and in life when so
much that was precious had been lost. Today you find me in the process of creating a far more sustainable, inspiring, healthy future than I could ever have imagined and bringing as many people as I can on that journey with me.” Editor’s Note: Bereavement support links: For parents and those widowed young available from Care for the Family https://www. careforthefamily.org.uk/ support-for-you/familylife/bereavement-support/ bereaved-parent-support/ Faye was also supported through her husband’s death by a Cruse Bereavement Care listener. Cruse encourage walking through grief: https://www.cruse. org.uk/understandinggrief/managing-grief/ walking-nature-for-grief/
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OUT & ABOUT Last year, following a traumatic car accident, Faye set out solo on a 700km trek across two countries to complete the world-famous Camino Portugues from Lisbon in Portugal to Santiago in northern Spain, raising money for charity with every step. As interest in modern pilgrimage – whether for religious, spiritual or cultural reasons continues to rise, record numbers of almost half a million walked to Santiago last year and
millions more visited the shrine of St James and other pilgrim sites worldwide. Rev Fiona has herself spoken on Woman’s Hour about bereavement, and has a passion for supporting people on their journeys through and with loss. “Saturday November 1, All Saints Day, will begin a season of Remembering in the Benefice, with all four churches open between 10am and 4pm for a pilgrimage and Day of Remembering, followed by a
Memorial service on Sunday, November 2 for all who want to remember or to give thanks for loved ones, or simply be allowed to sit with their own grief. We are also aware that weekend marks the start of International Stress Awareness Week, and bereavement is said to be the most stressful thing any of us can endure.” “Our prayer is that our varied and beautiful churches, and the journey between them will offer pilgrims the
space and opportunity to engage with life, with their hopes and dreams, with their sorrows and to encounter the joy and the peace of God that passes all understanding,” adds Rev Fiona. Editor’s Note: More on Hope Walking and Tideswell day pilgrimages for men and women of any and no faith, on September 13 and November 1, at https://hopewalking.co.uk/ and facebook Hope Walking and Tideswell Church
YHA FESTIVAL OF WALKING… THE month-long YHA Festival of Walking is also back for its fourth year from September 12-October 12, including a programme of free social walks. There are seven, free-tojoin walk starting from Peak District youth hostels during this period, including Castleton Losehill Hall on September 14; Edale on September 20; Hartington Hall on September
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21; Ravenstor on September 28; Ilam on September 30; Edale (a women-only walk) on October 11 and Youlgrave on October 12. “We know that it can be difficult for some people to find opportunities to walk, whether due to mobility challenges, a lack of knowledge, or simply not having someone to go with,” said Andrew McCoy, YHA Walks Programme
Manager. “That’s why this year’s festival is about giving people a reason to start – to join a walk that’s welcoming, supportive and maybe even transformative.” Places on all walks are limited and people must register online to join them; simply go to www.yha.org. uk/festival-of-walking In addition to the
month-long programme of guided group walks, you can also take advantage of a 20% discount on overnight accommodation at festival hostels and enjoy independent walking adventures by using their free route maps. Below: There’s a free walk from YHA Ravenstor on September 28.
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87 Reflections September 2025
LOCAL BUSINESS
Journeys Beyond the Ordinary CRAFTED BY RIVIERA TRAVEL, DELIVERED BY MARTINS WORLD TRAVEL
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ROM Europe’s rivers to Italy’s lakes – unforgettable travel, impeccably arranged. Martins World Travel, Derbyshire’s trusted independent travel specialists, delivers exceptional holiday experiences with meticulous attention to detail. Working only with carefully selected partners ensures quality, value, and memorable journeys for every client. Among these partners, Riviera Travel is a standout name, offering luxury ocean and river cruises alongside expertly curated escorted tours across Europe and beyond. Whether travelling as a couple, with friends, or solo, guests enjoy superb standards, thoughtfully designed itineraries, and excellent value for money.
RIVER CRUISES - THE DOURO, THE DANUBE, THE RHINE Riviera Travel’s river cruises combine five-star comfort with the romance of Europe’s great waterways.
EXAMPLE: RIVER DOURO The Douro’s timeless banks are lined with terraces where olives, almonds, and grapes have grown for centuries. This dramatic valley– with cliffs, medieval villages, and fine vineyards – remains one of Europe’s most unspoilt treasures. Departing from Porto, home of Port wine, the scenery shifts from Atlantic greenery to Mediterranean landscapes dotted with olive groves, vines,
and hilltop towns. Highlights include the higher valley reaches and Salamanca, famed for its historic university, stunning cathedrals, and lively square. Along the way, discover monasteries, vineyards, and villages little changed by time – a voyage as restorative as it is inspiring.
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travel, hand-picked hotels, and expert local guides. Each itinerary is designed to reveal the heart of a destination – from tasting local cuisine to exploring centuries-old landmarks. Choices range from global adventures to rail-only European tours for those avoiding flights or seeking a lower carbon footprint.
SIGNATURE SMALL GROUP TOURS With a maximum of 25 guests, these tours offer enhanced cultural experiences and a more personal atmosphere. Award-winning inclusions: • Flights with no regional supplements & transfers • 24/7 UK-based support • Expert Tour Manager throughout • Deposit with balance due up to 101 days before departure • “Happiness Guarantee” – not happy by day two? Return home with a full refund • Price promise – best price or a voucher plus 25% back • Itineraries filled with insightful excursions and visits To advertise call 01246 550488
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ITALIAN LAKES ELEGANCE, SERENITY, AND NATURAL BEAUTY The Italian Lakes combine dramatic mountain backdrops, shimmering waters, and elegant towns rich in culture, art, and cuisine. Riviera Travel’s holidays here feature prime-location hotels and excursions that capture each lake’s character.
LAKE COMO Favoured by poets, artists, and film stars, Como’s deep blue waters are framed by stately villas and charming towns like Bellagio. Highlights include the cinematic Villa del Balbianello.
LAKE GARDA Italy’s largest lake offers alpine scenery, waterfront villages, and nearby Valpolicella wine country. Enjoy boat tours, lively markets, and scenic walks.
LAKE MAGGIORE Straddling Italy and Switzerland, Maggiore is ideal for islandhopping. The Borromean Islands and Isola Bella’s gardens are unmissable.
LAKE ORTA Peaceful and unspoilt, Orta charms with its medieval lanes and boat trips to serene San Giulio Island.
LAKE ISEO A local favourite, Iseo offers Franciacorta sparkling wines, cycling trails, and a relaxed pace of life.
ESCORTED TOUR 8 DAYS £1,469 PER PERSON (BASED ON 2 SHARING) Inclusions: • Direct flights & transfers • Hand-picked hotels in the best locations • Excursions & visits with local guides • Expert Tour Manager • Smaller group sizes for 2025 & 2026 • Free Wi-Fi • Checked luggage • All additional taxes
PLANNING THE PERFECT ESCAPE Martins World Travel provides the expertise and reassurance to match each traveller with the perfect Riviera Travel holiday. From sunlit cruises on the Douro to rail journeys through Europe or the elegance of the Italian Lakes, every itinerary is designed for unforgettable moments.
CALL AND DISCUSS YOUR TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS WITH OUR FRIENDLY AND EXPERT TEAM ON: 01246 220020 or 01246 823763 Martins World Travel, 46 Knifesmithgate, Chesterfield, S40 1RQ T: 01246 220020 Martins World Travel, 25 Market Place, Bolsover, S44 6PN T: 01246 823763 martins-world-travel.co.uk www.1st4Cruises.co.uk ABTA Bonded.
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COUNTYWIDE NEWS
Hen harriers get tags… TWO hen harrier chicks, hatched from a nest on moorland in the care of the National Trust in the Peak District, have been fitted with satellite tags by the RSPB to protect them from persecution. At the same time as providing location data, the satellite tags will provide vital information about the behaviour of this threatened species and an insight into roosting, breeding and foraging sites. The tried and tested method also helps to gather evidence in the fight against criminal activity. Each year in England, around 30 chicks are fitted with these tags. The chicks tagged were part of a brood of three chicks from the same nest who have now successfully fledged. They are the offspring of the adult birds which featured on the BBC’s Springwatch earlier this year, spectacularly passing food mid-air. This is the eighth nest attempt to have been recorded over the past five years in the Peak District. Last year there were only 34 nests in the UK compared to 49 in 2022. There are only around 30-40 breeding pairs of hen harriers in England. Craig Best, General Manager in the Peak District at the National Trust, said: “We have been working hard with our partners to create ideal habitats to attract red-listed birds and provide good homes for them when they move to moorland landscapes over the spring and summer. A significant amount of time and investment is made to do this. 90 Reflections September 2025
“It is wonderful to see successful nests on the land in our care because it is a good indicator that our work is providing them with the conditions they need. However, we need to be cautious and vigilant because despite being legally protected, persecution is still one of the biggest threats to these special birds of prey. “This is harder to address, but we’re taking action to combat these illegal practices. We’re working closely with our partners. One way we do this is by supporting tagging the birds and tracking their movements. For example, a recent successful tracking of another hen harrier, fitted with a satellite tag by Natural England on National Trust land in 2022, also returned to the Peak District earlier this year. The tracking data, shows the extensive flight-path of the bird, which travels down to Cornwall during the winter months, before returning to the Peak District each summer, flying approximately over 550 miles between wintering sites and breeding grounds and choosing to spend time in the moorland habitat, after stopping off in Wales along the way.
Heartwood Forest takes roots in county DERBYSHIRE’S first community forest is taking root after 47,000 trees were planted during the first planting season. Derbyshire’s Heartwood Community Forest, run by Derbyshire County Council, is the newest of 15 Community Forests in England, funded through England’s Community Forests Trees for Climate Fund, supported by the government. The forest will grow across the eastern and southern fringes of Derbyshire. Through a programme of free grants and support for woodland and hedgerow planting, community forests create highquality environments for millions of people. Among Heartwood’s first 17 planting sites are Bondhay Golf Club in Whitwell Common, public parkland in Tibshelf and farmland in Denby. The next planting season starts in
October and more landowners with even the smallest plots of land to step forward to find out more about the benefits. Grants cover 100% of the costs of all aspects of woodland creation and their ongoing maintenance for up to 15 years. Full details can be found at www.derbyshire.gov.uk/heartwood
Campaign to stop solar panels on farmland NEW campaign Stop Oversized Solar has exposed troubling new figures on planned solar power land-take. Solar sites in the pipeline would cover around 655,000 acres – the equivalent of Derbyshire. Stop Oversized Solar brings together a group of volunteers from across the UK committed to revealing the real story behind solar mega schemes. News of this new solar pipeline emerges alongside the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero’s recent decision to change capacity targets, making it easier for solar mega schemes – set to take up thousands of acres of farmland each – to get grid connections. Prof Tony Day, of the campaign, said: “The government’s strategy on solar is wrong. The pipeline is now massively over target, with an area of farmland the size of Derbyshire set to be covered in solar panels. “We struggle to get even 10 per cent average energy yields on solar, so it’s much more logical to prioritise local solar schemes like rooftop arrays or car park canopies instead of grid-scale mega schemes on good farmland.”
Ambulance service expansion EAST Midlands Ambulance Service (EMAS) is expanding its Clinical Assessment Hub as part of efforts to ensure ambulances reach patients who need them most. By directing 999 callers to the most appropriate care, EMAS aims to keep more ambulances available for immediately life-threatening emergencies, while helping patients access faster support. EMAS’s Clinical Assessment Hub has a dedicated team of nurses, paramedics and specialist clinicians reviews 999 calls and guides patients to the right care – whether that’s self-care advice, a community pharmacy, urgent treatment centre, or a GP – ensuring that ambulances are reserved for the most critical cases. Paul Jevons, Clinical Commander, said: “If a call comes in about a concern for someone’s mental health, I can refer it directly to our Mental Health Practitioner team for a specialised assessment, instead of it waiting for an ambulance response. This means the patient is getting the urgent care and support they need faster.” To advertise call 01246 550488
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91 Reflections September 2025
FEATURE
NINE ROADS OUT, NINE ROADS IN… Godfrey Holmes revisits the huge project he undertook, 14 years ago, to write a ‘biography’ of each of the nine main routes radiating out of Chesterfield town centre.
B
IOGRAPHY of a road: why not? After all, local historians have written biographies of MPs, inventors, villains, explorers, whoever; biographies also of schools, hospitals, neighbourhoods, railways and coach operators. So to celebrate 90 years after the very first A-Roads were numbered by the Ministry of Transport, I boldly set out to document the eight
points of the compass out of, and into, Chesterfield, ‘Centre of Industrial England’: N,NE,E,SE,S,SW,W,NW. Perfect? Because there happened to be an A-road roughly following seven of those eight directions: clockwise, the A61 north to Dronfield; the A618 Staveley road; the A632 to Bolsover; the A617 for Heath; the A61 through Clay Cross; the A632 Matlock road; not forgetting the A619 over to Baslow, gateway to Chatsworth. And the immediate exception? The B6051 north-west to Barlow, on to Owler Bar. Soon a second exception: to my great surprise, there turned out to be two, not one, A-roads heading out of Chesterfield north-eastwards! What became Reflections’ Route Nine being the important A6135 Left: An East Midlands Train crossing a transverse bridge over the Sheffield Road, Old Whittington. Below: The revolutionary Batch House at Whittington Moor.
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out to Eckington via Old Whittington – ancient settlement, site too of Revolution House – thence to Rotherham. So came this summer and – rather than describe each of those roads again – I determined to take nine buses out of Chesterfield and back to see if anything had significantly altered between my original mission at 90 years after the initiative of National Highways’ numbering. I concluded the Ministry must have found the A6 carriageway – from London to Manchester (via Derby) crucial – because all nine of my routes selected started with a ‘6’. And I certainly knew the perils of bus travel. In return for 100% concentration on new developments along the way, I would encounter hold-ups, diversions, distractions, interruptions, repetition – whilst being able to take photographs prompted by far shorter anticipation; with the definition of those images suffering twist and shake. Nevertheless, I did come across isolated roadside phenomena recognisable, striking, memorable, enough to come up with a decent narrative. But why isolated phenomena? Isolated because, to my genuine astonishment, very little had, in fact, changed since David Cameron entered into a governing coalition with the Liberal Democrats in May 2010. Whole swathes of commercial, domestic, residential and retail life along the way had stayed almost entirely static. So nothing to see here? Yes there had been some titivation: a new shop-front here; a new entrance there; change of a chapel’s religious affiliation; ESSO rather than BP at the petrol pump. And yes, there had been some very gradual demolition of eyesores; some instatement of pedestrian or taxicab or cycling priority; at the same time some reinstatement of colliery winding wheels, canal towpaths, bus shelters, picnic benches, marble paving. At least five public houses had recently become convenience stores;
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FEATURE
Above: The CMC Motorcycles and cafe next to the A61 at Clay Cross. Right: New housing at Clay Cross. another 10 or 11 popular inns now boarded up, for sale. And as for real supermarkets: discounters ALDI and LIDL have evidently undergone appreciable growth, most notably in Clay Cross, Lower Brampton, Littlemoor and Lockoford. Meanwhile, B&M, also Home Bargains, even One Beyond, are destined to become the Wilkos and Woolworths of the late 2020s. Which brings me on to the fascinating subject of fast food. On each of my nine expeditions, I spotted innumerable, usually franchised, fast food joints or coffee parlours: some of these established brands; others arriving in hope. And this represents a definite change in Chesterfield’s plate offering, its mealtimes too. So I was particularly keen to observe whether there had been any bunching together of incoming shops and takeaways to form parades attractive enough not to become as tatty or metal-shuttered as some of their misguided 1960s’ predecessors. And my three biggest and best discoveries in this direction were all situated on the Sheffield Road, first next to the Donkey Derby; second alongside ASDA; third – this architecture truly innovative – the Batch House constructed on the footprint of that iconic (1972) entertainment venue: the Aquarius Nightclub. Two enhanced and very well-patronised motorcycle meet-ups also caught my attention: CMC on the A61 south, entering Clay Cross; and Harleyworld on the A6135 exiting Whittington Moor. And speaking of congestion outside these two showrooms, I noted a growing, not diminishing, heavy traffic build-up on all nine major routes out of Chesterfield. I dread to think how many work days, downtimes and family occasions are sacrificed to the internal combustion engine. Over 15-years plus of charting North-East Derbyshire’s hesitant regeneration, I have observed no traffic movement improvement whatsoever. It’s still bumper-to-bumper, standstill and tailback: the M1 motorway and the Dronfield bypass, affording scarce relief?
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HOUSING My latest project might stand or fall in line with brand new homes being built and completed, then sold, beside those nine key highways. Here I was never disappointed – although it was not always apparent whether developments had started before or after 2010. Encouragingly, many of the new estates I passed on the bus were built on “brownfield” – or formerly contaminated – land: principally Wingerworth’s Avenue Plant, Egstow and St. Lawrence Fold at Clay Cross, Arkwright Town, Duckmanton, Hollingwood, Brimington Road, Tapton, Dunston Lane, the Boatyard at Unstone – and so many more. On certain estates, new access roads were already being laid. At others, JCB diggers and cement lorries were still at work. But all developers, almost without exception, were not benefiting from the services of either artists or architects. In other words, the design of the majority of these new homes were lifted: if not identical to one’s neighbour, then identical to most others given planning permission by the Borough. Yet a couple of thousand pounds’ additional outlay on each property
would provide variety and peculiarity, differentiation and joy. On a more positive note, nearly every municipal park – and nearly every other play area where ballgames were not prohibited – that I passed on my travels was immaculate, a real asset to often hard-pressed communities.
‘MEGASHEDS’ Which leads me on to my final observation for now, ‘Megasheds’: those enormous new barns erected on marginal land very near trunk route roundabouts. Each barn yielding several thousand square feet of virgin space for fork-lift warehousing; for the assembly of parts; and, essentially, for distribution. The ‘Megasheds’ I passed east or south of where I began – several dedicated to household brands – were simply gargantuan, at the same time curiously anonymous. Is this shielded activity the paid employ of most 18-50-year olds of the future? Editor’s Note: readers, do pop your smart-phone in your pocket and spend each bicycle or bus or car passenger journey absorbing the roadside in all its ribbon detail. Whether heading for business or pleasure out of a rejuvenated Chesterfield town centre, you’re sure to experience both excitement and reassurance.
On the Bolsover Road, the Great Bear ‘megashed’.
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SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2025
WINDING WHEEL
SHEFFIELD CITY HALL
UTILITY ARENA, SHEFFIELD
Sep 29 Chris McCausland – Yonks!
Sep 25 Level 42 – World Machine 40th Anniversary Tour
Sep 26 Busted vs McFly
ICON KEY Film
Music
Kids
Live
Dance Comedy
Talk
14
Dire Straits
17-20 ar Gone
17
Hello Again: The Neil Diamond Songbook
18
18
Rob Beckett: Giraffe
23-27 Matthew Bourne’s The Midnight Bell
19
China Crisis: Y Stop Now Tour (Pavilion Arts Centre)
19
Illegal Eagles
Voluntary Sector Awards
20
Cloudbusting: The Music of Kate Bush
12
Heritage Open Day: Exhibition and Tours
21
Heritage Open Day
13
The Simon & Garfunkel Story
21
Okid Djalili
18
The Nutcracker
23
Tim Peake: The Quest to Explore Space
20
Oh What a Night!
25
21
Jack and the Beanstalk: Junior Dance Auditions
Queen of the Night: A tribute to Whitney Houston
26
23
Cultural Services Access Meeting
29
Chris McCausland – Yonks!
BOX OFFICE:01246 345 222 www.chesterfieldtheatres.co.uk
SEP
10
SEP
A Particularly Nasty Case: A Murderously Funny Evening with Adam Kay
4
Saving Grace
4
Gary Meikle: Neurospicy
5
Last Laugh Comedy Club
Stewart Copeland: Have I said too much
6
Last Laugh Comedy Club
27
Ideal (starring Johnny Vegas)
6
Day Fever
29
Edwyn Collins
6
30
Dead Ringers: The 25th Anniversary Tour
The World Famous Elvis Show – starring Chris Connor
7
Rob Beckett: Giraffe
7
In conversation with Peter Hook of Joy Division and New Order. A Q&A.
8
Miriam Margolyes: From A to Z
12
Last Laugh Comedy Club
13
Last Laugh Comedy Club
18
Elis & John – That Feels Significant: Live!
19
Last Laugh Comedy Club
19
An Audience with Coronation Street
20
Brighton Beach
20
Last Laugh Comedy Club
25
Level 42 – World Machine 40th Anniversary Tour
25
Tom Stade – Naughty By Nature
BOX OFFICE: 0114 249 6000 www.sheffieldtheatres.co.uk
SEP
Motherboard
SEP
2-6
Blood Brothers
5 - 13
Ripples
4
An Evening with Joe Thomas (Pavilion Arts Centre)
5-6
Dear Young Monster
9-10
Twisted Roots
9-13
Everybody’s Talking About Jamie
9 -20
Tina – The Tina Turner Musical
5
Trio Kagura (Pavilion Arts Centre)
5
Buzton Buzz Comedy Club (Pavilion Arts Centre)
6
Tony Christie: The Great Farewell (Pavilion Arts Centre)
13
Dancing in the Square
13
Julia Masli: Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha
11
Too Much Too Young
13-4 Oct Dancing at Lughnasa
12
Abba Forever
14
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BOX OFFICE: 0114 2 789 789 www.sheffieldcityhall.co.uk
2
BOX OFFICE: 01298 72190 www.buxtonoperahouse.org.uk
1
National Health Stories
Amazing Animals
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ENTERTAINMENT 26
Last Laugh Comedy Club
26
The Return of the Legends
27
Sheffield International Concert Season 2025/26 – The Hallé
27
Last Laugh Comedy Club
BOX OFFICE: 01142565656 www.sheffieldarena.co.uk
SEP
6
Lewis Capaldi
7
Lewis Capaldi
13
Steelers v Flames
21
Steelers v Storm
26
Busted vs McFly
27
Steelers v Blaze (Sport)
28
Young Driver (Driving Experience)
29
Deacon Blue – The Great Western Road Trip
30
Simply Red: 40th Anniversary
Other Events 1-30
Matlock Bath Illuminations. Every weekend during September, Matlock Bath lights up with a dazzling boat parade along the Derwent. Decorated vessels glide past under the night sky. The festive atmosphere includes children’s rides, character appearances, food stalls, and occasional fireworks. Tickets are nominal, making it a nostalgic and affordable evening out for families and romantics alike
2
Chesterfield and District Family History Society. 7.30pm. Online and live at St Thomas’ Centre, Brampton. Local historian John Taylor speaking on “Tales of Murder, Crime and Punishment in and around Chesterfield”. For further details and to register, contact secretary@cadfhs.org
6–7
Festivity Artist Showcase at Tapton Lock. Over the weekend, Tapton Lock plays host to the Festivity Artist Showcase — a vibrant snapshot of Derbyshire’s creative spirit. This event brings together local artists across mediums — from visual art and performance to music and spoken word — to exhibit and perform
11
Film show at Loundsley Green Community Centre. Where could you watch a 2025 movie for just £4 admission, including refreshments? It’s Mr Burton, a drama following the early life of Welsh actor Richard Burton, starring Toby Jones, Harry Lawtey and Lesley Manville. Doors open 6.30pm for a 7pm start
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PEAK MUSIC SOCIETY’S NEW SEASON BEGINS Peak Music Society’s 57th season begins in September with the first of an exceptional programme of concerts at the Cavendish Hall, Edensor. The season opens on September 25 with Sarah Williamson and the Piatti Quartet. Sarah is renowned as a virtuoso clarinettist and has performed around the world at venues such as Carnegie Hall, the Royal Albert Hall and the Berlin Concerthaus. She has collaborated with numerous leading orchestras and is regularly heard on BBC Radio 3. The Piatti Quartet recently performed at the Buxton International Festival. They epitomise Peak Music’s stated aim of bringing the world’s best music to local audiences.
The 2025/26 season continues on October 21 with The Portrait Players, an all-female trio specialising in 17th and 18th century music. They are regular performers at the leading festivals and their playing has been described as “beguiling”. Further concerts will feature the Galliard Wind Ensemble, Kosta Popovic (cello) and the Connaught Brass. The finale on April 16, 2026, will be the Society’s regular jazz event, this time a visit from Jacqui Dankworth and Charlie Wood. Membership of the Society has been again held at £90, which represents exceptional value for six concerts and tickets can also be purchased for individual events. Details can be found on the Society’s website.
12–21 Wirksworth Festival. This renowned rural arts festival spans ten days, filling the charming town with vibrant exhibitions, performances and creative displays. Expect an eclectic mix of music, street theatre, visual arts, workshops, and the special Art & Architecture Trail across the weekend of 13\14. Local artists, galleries, and historic buildings open their doors in a communal celebration of creativity. There’s art around every corner!
often closed to the public and experience a vibrant celebration of local history
13
Derby Pride. An annual celebration of LGBT+ culture and community spirit, showcasing vibrant performances, inclusive gatherings, and colourful street parades. It’s free to attend and combines music, speeches, local stalls, and energetic dancing into a joyful tribute to diversity and unity.
13–21 Heritage Open Days. England’s largest community-led festival of history and culture returns with free activities across Derbyshire—from studios and factories to grand houses and hidden garden gems. A unique opportunity to explore spaces
Above: The Piatti Quartet and Sarah Williamson
20
Dethick, Lea & Holloway Horticultural Society’s Annual Horticultural Show. 2pm at Florence Nightingale Memorial Hall, Holloway, DE4 5BD. All welcome. There will also be light refreshments. To find out more, go to www.dlhgardening.com or ring the secretary on 07719 211693
20–21 The Melbourne Festival’s Art & Architecture Trail invites visitors to explore creative installations hidden across private gardens, historic halls, and unique spaces throughout the town. Running from 10 am–5 pm each day, the event unveils a weekend of art blending with architecture—perfect for relaxed wandering and discovery. Artistic works are exhibited in unexpected locations, often accompanied by art talks or guided tours 27
Derby Festé. A spectacular free outdoor arts festival transforming the city Continued on 96 95 Reflections September 2025
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2025 Continued from 95 into a lively stage for performances and immersive installations. Running from 4 pm to 10.30 pm, this vibrant showcase brings together street theatre, contemporary dance, music, visual arts, and creative storytelling across Derby’s public spaces. A perfect introduction to Derby’s rich cultural scene. 27
Music at St Alkmund’s Church, Duffield. Enjoy a candlelit evening of classical favourites as the English String Ensemble performs Bach’s Brandenburg Concerto No. 3, Mendelssohn’s Octet, and Vivaldi’s Four Seasons. Taking place at 7.30 pm, this concert is presented in collaboration with Derby Chamber Music Society. The ensemble features top London-based musicians, many of whom appeared in Duffield and Derby last season. Tickets:
£20 adults, £19 concessions, £8 students (free for school-aged children with a paying adult). Available online or at the door. Visit musicatduffield.com for details. Oct 3
Bolsover Comedy Night at Bolsover Assemby Rooms. Rob Rouse and Danny McLoughlin. Tickets £12 in advance. Tickets can be bought in person at The Pump and Byron Tap, Bolsover or online at https://wegottickets.com/event/661334 or £13.50 on the door. Last entry 7.45pm
Oct 4
Harvest Supper at Wadshelf Village Hall. Ham and pork pie salad and bread cob followed by apple pie with cream or custard, washed down with a glass of cider. Vegetarian option available - quick salad. Followed by sale of produce. £10 adults, under-12s £5, must be booked in advance by calling Lesley on 07707 115546.
MORE GARDENS TO VISIT… AS the garden visiting season draws to a close, we hope you have had chance to visit some of our beautiful Derbyshire gardens this year. Many gardens are still at their peak in September and there are still NGS gardens to visit. Holmlea in Ambergate will be open on Saturday and Sunday, September 13/14, from 11am-4pm each day. This 1.5-acre garden features a large kitchen garden with cut flower patch and lots of late summer colour, a boules court and riverside walk. It’s very family friendly with animals to meet and a garden trail to follow. Home-made teas are
served from a replica cricket pavilion. Admission is £5, children free. Plants for sale and dog friendly. Not too far away in Middleton by Wirksworth, you’ll find The Old Vicarage, a delightful country style garden with borders, bees, doves and chickens; which is open on the same two days. There are lovely countryside views over to Black Rocks. Home-made teas can be enjoyed in the courtyard or in the indoor fernery. Admission is £5, children free. Dogs on leads welcome.
‘FATHER OF RAILWAYS’ RE-ENACTOR… A GEORGE Stephenson re-enactor will be taking centre stage at an event to celebrate the famous engineer and his connections with Chesterfield. Chesterfield Museum and Holy Trinity Church will be hosting the free event on Saturday, September 27, from 10am to 4pm. There will be a short break from 2pm to 2.45pm whilst a service is held at the Church. As well as being able to answer questions and pose for pictures, the re-enactor will also be hosting two talks at 11am and at 3pm. He’ll be talking about the impact George Stephenson’s railway had across the world. The event is free to enter with donations being given to local charities. Holy Trinity Church is George Stephenson’s final resting place and features a stunning stained-glass window commissioned by his son Robert. Find out more about the church’s George Stephenson project at www.holytrinityandchristchurch.org
Below: The Holmlea garden at Ambergate is open under the NGS scheme on September 13 and 14.
A FITNESS FIRST… THIS month, Derby Arena will host a fitness first – the UK debut of Spartan DEKA FIT on 6–7 September. Bringing together ten dynamic functional workout zones with short, sharp running intervals, DEKA FIT is designed to be fast-paced, exciting, and inclusive. Whether you’re an elite athlete chasing a World Championship spot or a first-timer looking for a new challenge, this event is all about testing endurance, strength, and conditioning in a fun and accessible way.
SUBMIT YOUR LISTING OR EVENT Please email your information including dates to whatson@reflections-magazine. com before September 22nd, 2025, to appear in the October 2025 issue.
96 Reflections September 2025
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ENTERTAINMENT
DINOSAURS VISIT CHESTERFIELD THIS MONTH… DINOSAURS will be coming to Chesterfield as the town is transported back to the Jurassic period for a day of family fun. Taking place on Saturday, September 27, there will be live dinosaur shows and walkabout
entertainment featuring a five-metre T-Rex and a seven-metre Brontosaurus along with a selection of other prehistoric characters. Coun Kate Sarvent, Chesterfield Borough Council’s cabinet member for town centres and visitor economy, said: “This is set to be a fantastic day out in the town centre for the whole family to enjoy.”
The free event will be running from 10am to 4pm. Live dinosaur shows will feature a collection of cheeky characters, providing an hilarious interactive performance. The massive beasts will roam the town and greet visitors who will be able to take photos with the spectacular creatures. Dinosaur riders will also be roaming about the town centre, meeting visitors and posing for selfies.
A ‘PRISON’ PLAY… PENNED Up, a new play by award-winning playwright Danusia Iwaszko, is coming to the Pavilion Arts Centre in Buxton on Thursday and Friday, September 25 and 26 at 7.30pm, as part of a world premiere UK tour which also visits prisons including HMP Hollesley Bay and HMP Highpoint. Drawing on Danusia’s 15+ years of experience teaching playwriting in prisons, Penned Up offers an unflinching look at life inside. Think Porridge meets Brassed Off – a laugh riot and a gut-punch in equal measure. Witty, raw and full of heart, Penned Up is a powerful celebration of storytelling, second chances and the unexpected bonds that form behind bars. Welcome to HMP Ditchfield, where every week
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a group of prisoners are challenged to write their own plays. From boxing rings to the Brazilian rainforest, from painful pasts to wildly imaginative futures, these men discover that theatre is more than words on a page – it’s a lifeline, a way to reclaim their voices. But when creativity clashes with control, tensions rise, secrets unravel, and laughter gives way to rebellion. To book tickets visit: buxtonoperahouse.org.uk/ event/penned-up-2025 Right: Penned Up is being performed at the Pavilion Arts Centre, Buxton, on September 25 and 26.
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