Nene Valley Living 2011

H E L P I N G Y O U T O G E T T H E M O S T O U T O F L I V I N G L O C A L LY

NENE VALLEY Living Spring celebrations

Gifts, decorations and food

Join the club

Could networking help your business?

Ready, steady, go!

Classic car racing

ÂŁ1.50 April 2011

www.bestlocalliving.co.uk 04

9 771740 052017 NVLAPRIL11_DC.indd 1

15/3/11 15:56:29

E

Loc st

Est

al Comp

an

1981 - 30 Years

y

!

QKS, bringing kitchens to life...

NEW Rangemaster Showroom & Design Centre now open

Bespoke Kitchens, Bedrooms and Bathrooms Kitchens from £6,000 fitted • Supply only kitchens from £1,000

Financial solutions available • 100s of kitchens to choose from • Suppliers to the trade & building industry

VISIT OUR SHOWROOM WITH 30 KITCHEN ROOM SETTINGS OPEN MON - FRI 8AM - 5PM, SAT 8AM - 3PM, SUN 10AM - 4PM QKS Kitchens, The Maltings, Barnack Road, Stamford, PE9 2NA

T: 01780 756514 or 755855 E: sales@qksstamford.co.uk 2

• NVL April ADS.indd 2

www.qksstamford.co.uk

17/3/11 10:49:49

NENE VALLEY LIVING

Cover shot:

W W W. B E S T L O C A L L I V I N G . C O . U K

l ri p A e u s s i s i h T S

pring is officially sprung and this month is emerging as a time for celebrations. As well as the official jollifications for the Royal Wedding, some communities will be marking the event with a street party, while many of us will just enjoy the extra bank holiday. As usual, we’ve plenty of ideas for days out and local happenings if you’re at a loose end.

Some special mentions include: • Trek-kits, outdoor outfitters of Oundle, are holding a tent show over the Easter weekend at Oundle Town football club, where tents and kayaks will be on display.

Reasonable prices and a chance to see the tents in their full glory.

• Nassington Pre-School are holding an Easter extravaganza on Saturday April 23rd from 12pm. Egg decorating, Easter bonnet competition, face painting, bbq, cake stall and an Easter egg hunt are all guaranteed.

• Steve Bean, classical guitarist, plays Mama Liz’s, Stamford, 4-6pm on April 17th.

Free admission.

• Willow Holt, near Peterborough is an intriguing garden, open on April 17th, 11am5pm under the National Gardens Scheme.

Plants, sculptures and wildlife create a wonderful two acre environment. Willow Hall Lane, Thorney, PE6 0QN. Admission: £3.

Finally, some of you have been asking me where you can find a copy of Nene Valley Living. We deliver 10,000 copies direct through the letterbox, but if you’re not one of them, try the Destination Centre in Bridge Street, Peterborough or Oundle Customer Service Centre, which recently moved to 4, New Street, Oundle PE8 4ED. It’s nice to hear that you’re keen to get your copies!

Fion a Cu mberpatch Editor SUBSCRIBE TO Nene Valley Living

@LocalLivingUK

5

Easter bunny

by Dan Waters

Upfront Pandora boutique and an emergency phone service

6 9

Upfront

Holiday ideas and a wedding special

Upfront

Legal advice for co-habitees

10 Upfront

Fitzwilliam Hospital’s NHS services

12 EASTER TREATS

12 Easter treats

Two pages of seasonal gifts and decorations

15 Food news

A new bakery for Oundle

17 Insider trading

Behind the scenes at the Tiffen kitchen

18 DELICIOUS DIM SUM

18 Delicious dim sum Try a Chinese delicacy

20 Working the river

Moving cargo the old fashioned way

22 Health and beauty notes 30 CLASSIC CAR RACING Editor Fiona Cumberpatch fiona@bestlocalliving.co.uk Write to Nene Valley Living, PO Box 208, Stamford, PE9 9FY www.nenevalleyliving.co.uk Advertisement Manager Bridget Steele 01733 707538 bridget.neneliving@ntlworld.com Advertisement Director Helen Walton 01780 754801 helen.stamford@btopenworld.com Head of Design Steven Handley steve@locallivingdesign.co.uk Assistant Designer Nik Ellis nik@locallivingdesign.co.uk Advertising Copy Rachel Beecroft 01780 765320 rachel@locallivingdesign.co.uk Publisher Nicholas Rudd-Jones 01780 765571 Email: localliving@btopenworld.com Published by Local Living Ltd, PO Box 208, Stamford, Lincs. PE9 9FY www.locallivingltd.co.uk Printed by Warner’s of Bourne

Choosing a new dentist

25 Join the club

The lowdown on business networking

29 Oundle gets weaving Creating carpets from the loom

30 Classic car racing

Round the track in an old favourite

32 Woodland walk

Boot up for a bracing ramble

37 Diary dates

Our pick of the month’s events

20 WORKING THE RIVER

For £20 (£30 for overseas’ surface mail) you can subscribe to Nene Valley Living for 12 issues.

Please send your name, address and a cheque made out to Local Living Ltd to: NVL Subscriptions, PO Box 208, Stamford, PE9 9FY

NENE VALLEY LIVING April 2011

P3 NVLAPRILCONTENTS_DC.indd 1

3

15/3/11 15:20:38

PANDORA BOUTIQUE

Classic fashions for Women - Special Occasions and Every day wear. Bags, Jewellery and Accessories. Personal Service.

10A West Street, Oundle, PE8 4EF Tel: 01832 270099,

WILLIAM LLOYD BESPOKE GARDEN STRUCTURES

WILLIAM LLOYD specialises in the concept, visualisation and construction of bespoke garden structures 07974 071551 williamlloyd.co.uk

4

• NVL April ADS.indd 4

17/3/11 10:50:12

LOCAL NEWS

Upfront What’s new this month

5 ways to treat your mum It’s Mother’s Day on April 3rd, so why not give her: 1 A box of pretty cakes from Blossom Cupcakes (www. blossom-cupcakes.co.uk or tel: 01733 231320).

2 Afternoon tea at The Granary Tea Room, Willow Brook Farm Shop (rustic) or The Garden House Hotel, Stamford (elegant).

3 A voucher for a beauty treatment or blow dry at one of our lovely local salons.

4 A Thai dinner, cooked in your home by Wannee Cope of Bespoke Thai Catering, Nassington (we’ve tried the food and it’s delicious).

Tel: 07772 373411.

5 A hand tied bouquet from Foxtail Lilly, Oundle, pictured, tel: 01832 274593.

Baby kit for less

Preparing for a new baby can be an expensive business. Stamford shop Mummy & Me has come up with an enterprising way to lower the bills.

Owner Helen Fox’s business offers quality second hand children’s clothes, toys and equipment from high street names. Parents with older children have the chance to make some much needed cash by selling items through Helen’s shop and website. Mummy & Me also sells brand new children’s socks, tights and underwear, and some nursery accessories, such as a new range of covetable magic lanterns by French company Trousselier. Drop into the shop to view the clothes and smaller items, or visit the website to see larger items, such as cots and prams. There are also details on how to become a seller.

• Mummy & Me, 4, Wellington Lane, Stamford, PE9 1QB. Tel: 01780 238001 www.mummy&me.vpweb.co.uk

Furnish your home with style Ashton Furniture is an independent, local business offering a range of ready assembled furniture in oak, ash, painted wood and pine. There are styles to suit every taste, from modern and contemporary to classic country. Beautifully sturdy bookshelves, wardrobes, beds, dressing tables and chests of drawers are among the 2,000 items on offer for quick delivery. “This month, we are introducing a new, French inspired range, Provence, which we are very excited about,” says managing director David Holmes. You can see the furniture in situ at the Kettering showroom, which has over 12 room sets in different styles, and view products on the website at www. ashtonfurniture.net • For more information, contact David Holmes on 01536 484732. Find the warehouse at Eskdaill St, Kettering, NN16 8RA

A message home We’re used to being constantly connected, whether its tweeting, texting or nattering into a mobile. But what happens when technology lets you down, leaving you stranded in an emergency? Stamford-based telecommunications company GCC has come up with a clever solution which could provide a lifeline. The Call4five service offers a UK freephone number which you can use from any call box or somebody else’s mobile without incurring any charge to them. If you’re stuck overseas, it enables you to choose from a long list of free phone numbers to get a call back home, or you can use the international call back number to let loved ones know that you’re okay. Call4five cards and vouchers, suitable for use in the UK and overseas, are available from the call4five website. Cards are sent first class and vouchers can be emailed or printed direct from the website. Call4five is now endorsed as ‘Recommended Kit’ by the Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme, as it offers an extra bit of peace of mind for parents whose children are participating in the scheme.

• www.call4five.com

Dress to impress While clothes shops for younger women abound on the high street, it’s harder for more mature ladies to find style they’re comfortable with. Pandora Boutique in Oundle offers fashion for women aged 35 plus. “I stock special outfits, and pieces for women to wear everyday,” says owner Carol Ash. “We’re classic, rather than ultrafashionable.”

At present, Carol has brands such as Chianti, Enrico, and Gina Bacconi, but she’s always searching for new labels and sourcing fresh ideas. “Lots of customers come to me for wedding outfits, especially in the spring and summer,” she explains.

“People come back to me time and again because of the personal service that I offer.

I can help them put a whole outfit together, as I also stock jewellery, scarves and bags.”

Carol has been running the shop for seven years, after a career in the NHS. “But my parents always had shops, so I grew up behind the counter,” she smiles.

• Pop in to see what Carol has on offer this season at Pandora Boutique, 10a West St, Oundle PE8 4EF Tel: 01832 270099 NENE VALLEY LIVING April 2011

5 UPFRONT_DC.indd 1

5

16/3/11 10:42:05

LOCAL NEWS

Upfront Easter celebrations

If you’re entertaining family or friends over Easter, why not set a pretty, seasonal table to mark the event? John Lewis in Queensgate, Peterborough, has a huge selection of gifts and decorations to inspire you (as shown). Find more ideas in our feature on pages 12 - 13.

Essential Wedding Show winners The Essential Wedding Show at Burghley 2010 attracted over 800 visitors and was once again a showpiece of all the exquisite wedding suppliers in our region and beyond.

As part of the day, there was a fabulous prize draw supported by several of the exhibitors, and here are the winners: The Top Prize draw winner was Gemma Brennan (right) from Bytham and she gets married in May this year.

The Prize draw was a hamper with a selection of luxury food, from Champagne to luxury mince pies, provided by Chefs Thyme (www. chefsthyme.co.uk ), a local family run business that prides itself on delivering a first class catering service to your event with impeccably high standards.

The other prize draw winners were: *Abigail Foulkes of Stamford won a Bridal consultation and Bridal makeover for her wedding Courtesy of Suzi Smith Studios Contact: info@suzismithstudio.co.uk or 07957 610806 *Alan Bonner of Stamford won dinner and an overnight stay for two - courtesy of Barnsdale Hall Hotel - Contact 01572 757901 or see their website www.barnsdalehotel.co.uk *Kerry Buckenham of Wisbech, Cambs won A full portrait session courtesy of the fabulous Andy Fountain Photography - contact 01480 455856 or email Andy at andy@andyfountainphotography. co.uk *Rebecca Bloomfield of Cottesmore in Rutland won £100 worth of shopping vouchers & Pamper day - courtesy of Clarins, Nails inc & Personal shopper at Debenhams in Leicester *Sarah Drewberry of Market Deeping, Peterborough won a facial or full body massage and lunch courtesy of the stunning Belton Woods De Vere Hotel in Grantham - contact 01476 514354 or visit their website at www.devere.co.uk/our-locations/belton-woods *Amy-May Crick of Stamford won an overnight stay and dinner for two courtesy of Belton Woods De Vere Hotel & Spa in Grantham - contact 01476 514354 or visit their website at www.devere.co.uk/ our-locations/belton-woods • This year’s Essential Weddings event takes place on Sunday Nov 6th at Burghley House For tickets, or to book a stand call Sonja on 07799 792201 or visit www.essentialmediaevents.co.uk

Tuscany: relax and explore Oundle Travel is featuring The Castel Monastero for a stunning Italian break. It’s located east of Siena and set in the Tuscan vineyards and chestnut groves of the Ombrone Valley. The origins of this walled hamlet date back to the 11th century, when it was a monastery. This hotel has 75 rooms furnished in a beautiful, traditional Tuscan style with views over the gardens, central piazza or the magnificent Tuscan countryside.

Situated in 16 acres of landscaped gardens, this hotel is a perfect retreat for a special occasion short break or an extended stay from a city break in Florence in the heart of Italy.

Stays at Castel Monastero can be arranged for any duration and include scheduled flights into Pisa with British Airways, car hire and daily breakfast. The Castel has a stunning Urban Retreat Spa offering a superb

6

selection of wellness programmes, all of which can be pre-booked.

Oundle Travel can also offer cooking courses with consultant chef Fabrizio Peruzzi. These lessons are a real journey into the meaning of Tuscan cuisine, and will allow you to complete a rustic Tuscan lunch, or a fine dinner for your guests at home, while a patisserie course will allow guests to learn how to prepare superb dessert recipes.

• Prices from £899 per person for three nights in July 2011, inclusive of flights and car hire. For more information, please contact Oundle Travel on 01832 273600 www.oundletravel.co.uk

NENE VALLEY LIVING April 2011

6 UPFRONT_DC.indd 1

15/3/11 15:24:11

The Oculist Sunglass Party Thursday 14th April 4pm-9pm A unique opportunity to view the entire 2011 collections from:

Designer brands RAY BAN • PRADA • ROBERTO CAVALLI • TOM FORD • DIOR

Specialist brands OLIVER PEOPLES • MAUI JIM • FACE a FACE • MYKITA

Champagne & Live music Invite only: please contact Gerry or Emma for details

10% OFF SUNGLASS FRAMES on the day 24 WESTGATE ARCADE, QUEENSGATE CENTRE,PETERBOROUGH PE1 1PY

T- 01733555621 W www.theoculist.com

Beautifully designed

by Italians to be worn by you!

16 Church Street, 20 Market Place, Market Harborough Oundle Tel: 01858 431396 Tel: 01832 270033 7

• NVL April ADS.indd 7

17/3/11 10:50:25

Why a smooth back means so much...

“Having spent a lifetime sourcing and selling top quality furniture I believed I could no longer be surprised… how wrong I was.

Beautiful Lucy

Lying undiscovered in Bosnia I found a small company that design and manufacture furniture from European-grown woods, including walnut, oak, cherry, maple, elm and pear and whose quality is unsurpassed. A smooth back and a smooth bottom are ‘insider’ signs that a piece of furniture has been hand finished to an exceptionally high level. The Messina has both and is cabinet making at its very best... a contemporary classic, which embraces style and quality, and as the UK’s sole importer I can’t wait to share it with people, who like me, enjoy hidden surprises.”

Peter Baxter

CONTEMPORARYFURNITURE

*The Messina is manufactured in solid oiled walnut and included in the range is a wide variety of dining tables and chairs.

To see the Messina* and other exciting European-made furniture available exclusively from T 01733 202229

M 07932 583605

E H E L L O @ B E A U T I F U L L U C Y. C O . U K

Beautiful Lucy, call us now...

EUROPEAN CONTEMPORARY FURNITURE

Men and Women’s Country Clothing & Accessories R M Williams • Musto Katie Mosa • Ness Le Chameau • Lyn Antley Seasalt Open Monday to Saturday 9:00am till 5:30pm

www.harveytweel.co.uk Unit 1 The Bazaar West Street Oundle PE8 4EJ - 01832 272444

VISIT OUR BRAND NEW WEBSITE & SHOP ONLINE

www.jitterbugtoys.co.uk

8

• NVL April ADS.indd 8

17/3/11 10:50:38

LOCAL NEWS

Upfront New home for Nassington Pre-School This month, Nassington Pre-School moves to purpose-built premises on the village playing fields. The new building is intended to provide quality Early Years care and education for up to 25 local children aged from two to school age, during any one session. It is hoped that, in addition to the pre-school, it will now be possible to provide holiday clubs, after school and wraparound care. The £173,000 project has been funded by a £150,000 grant from East Northants County Council, some local business sponsorship, and plenty of local fundraising by a hardworking committee. Stamford Homes donated £600 to the project (seen here presenting their cheque). Pre-school vice chair Hilary Haggis says: ‘the new building will take us into a new and exciting era, allowing us to increase the number of children we care for, as well as offering longer hours of care.”

• www.nassingtonpreschool.org Tel: 01780 784755

Whittlesey Travel opens its doors A new business has opened on Whittlesey High Street.

Whittlesey Travel, run by Conchita Jones and Sarah Langford, held its official opening ceremony on February 11th, when MP Steve Barclay (left) was the guest of honour.

The independent travel company can organise anything from a weekend away to a specially tailored world tour.

• Whittlesey Travel. Telephone: 01733 203680 www.whittleseytravel.com

A wedding memento If you’d like a Royal Wedding souvenir with a difference, this mug from local designer Sophie Allport might fit the bill. It costs £8.50 and comes in a presentation box.

• Available from www.sophieallport.com

STOP PRESS STOP PRESS STOP PRESS STOP PRESS The picturesque village of Elton has its annual May Day celebration on Monday May 2nd.

Stalls are set out on Stocks Green, and there are craft workshops, musical entertainment, traditional games, delicious home made cakes, teas and a BBQ. 1-5pm.

8

NENE VALLEY LIVING July 2008

9 UPFRONT_DC.indd 1

Ask the expert Family Law specialist Belinda Smith of Belinda Smith and Co discusses the legal rights of unmarried couples Power to the unmarried couple? Well, no, not yet.

But it does help when our most senior Family Judge, President of the Family Division, Sir Nicholas Wall himself, announces his support for cohabitees having rights to share property and money on separation.

A sixth of couples in Britain live together unmarried, predicted to rise to one in four in 20 years’ time. Half of those couples still subscribe to the myth of the common law wife, mistakenly believing that they have the protection of the married spouse if the relationship breaks down.

The stark fact is that, since the Civil Partnership Act 2004, cohabiting couples have less rights than gay couples who now have inheritance rights, tax benefits and next-of-kin recognition, similar to married couples.

Unless an unmarried couple ensures that the house they own is in joint names, or held as tenants in common in shares they agree each will have on sale, the person who is not on the property title can struggle to establish any claim to its value.

There will definitely be no claim for maintenance support on a break-up and no sharing of any other assets that do not personally belong to the unmarried claimant.

So what is the learned Judge proposing and is anyone who matters listening?

Sir Nicholas said recently: “women cohabitees in particular are severely disadvantaged by being unable to claim maintenance and having their property rights determined by the conventional law of trusts.” The Judge is disappointed that the Labour government had not pledged to implement the reforms that were recommended by the 2007 Law Commission which called for new legal rights for people living together in a longterm relationship.

Will the Coalition behave differently?

It’s likely that for the time being the traditionalists will have the loudest voice, as their fears that the institution of marriage would be weakened, strikes a chord with many voters.

So until legal sense can overcome political nerves, the best way for couples living together to avoid the financial pitfalls of a break-up, is to draw up a Cohabitation Agreement. Not exactly hearts and flowers, but it will avoid a lot of sour grapes if the future doesn’t turn out as you planned.

It is a sensible piece of housekeeping recommended to all unmarried couples, especially those with children.

NENE VALLEY LIVING April 2011

9

15/3/11 15:25:08

LOCAL NEWS

Upfront Down to the river Last year, local company Canoe 2 started a canoe hire business aimed at helping people to discover the charms of the River Nene. It was an immediate success, with people coming from all over the country to enjoy our gentle, pastoral landscape from the water. This year, the business is expanding to include luxury camping, so you can now take to the water for up to five days, stopping overnight en route. The overnight options include a yurt, which sleeps eight, and bell tents, sleeping six.

Camp locations are at Oundle, Fotheringhay, Wadenhoe and Ditchford. The yurt, which is fixed at a site near Oundle, contains futons, rugs, tables, lanterns and a wood burning stove for chilly nights. Bell tents include airbeds, low tables, matting and a storm lantern. “All of our sites are on the riverbank, apart from Wadenhoe,” says Ian Blackwell, one of three partners in the business. “It’s the perfect way to enjoy the River Nene, which is under appreciated, even by those who live here.”

Optional extras include breakfast and barbecue boxes, containing provisions for an al fresco feast, a chemical toilet, and a kitchen, with brazier, griddle, frying pan, crockery, charcoal and a kettle.

Canoe hire packages include buoyancy aids, canoe trolleys and watertight barrels, and all transport of the canoes is provided. One night in the yurt, for up to eight people, is £120. Canoe hire starts at £35 for a half day.

• To find out more, contact 01604 832115 or visit the website www.canoe2.co.uk

Languages without tears Natasha Morgan loves languages, and she’s made it her mission to communicate that passion to others. She’s developed her own teaching resources to use for the private tuition and small group classes that she offers to both children and adults in the Oundle and Peterborough area through her business MLS. As well as intensive GCSE and A level revision, Natasha is running public classes in venues such as the King’s Arms pub, Polebrook, and Hampton, where people can come and brush up on their language skills, whether its for business or a holiday. “The aim is to create a friendly, sociable and interactive atmosphere, with lots of speaking,” explains Natasha. “It’s ideal for busy people who want to learn easily.” Natasha also tutors children from as young as three. “In an hour of tuition, there will be a lot of play, and I write songs and create materials to keep them interested,” she says. Rates start at £8 for the group conversation classes, and private tuition starts at £25 for one session for the under 12s and £40 for older children and adults.

• For details of classes, venues and availability, call Natasha on 07812 342598 or 0800 2985953

Great presents for children

Last minute panic buying for children’s birthday parties lead local mums Tessa Lamb and Emma Stevenson to launch their website The Present Drawer. It’s a collection of gifts and accessories, traditional enough to satisfy parents, yet appealing for children. “We wanted to create a virtual present drawer you could feel proud of,” says Emma.

• Visit the site at www.presentdrawer.com

Patient choice Nicholas Rudd-Jones met Helen Wilson, marketing manager at the Fitzwilliam Hospital, to find out which NHS services the hospital provides In today’s NHS, you have a choice of where you are treated, be that in a local NHS Hospital, a private hospital, or, indeed, in another part of the country if you wish to be close to relatives. The choice exists at the point that the GP decides to refer you to a consultant. He may or may not suggest alternatives, but it’s totally within your rights to specify which hospital you wish to be treated in, subject to them having the right specialists for your case.

Take a look at www.nhs.uk/choices, as this website can help you with your choice and to book a place (although that can and usually is done by the GP practice according to your request). It may also be useful to ask people who have experienced the care. Factors to take into account include: level of coverage of the speciality required, convenience of aftercare, size of hospital, infection rates, quality of food, ease of access and parking.

If you choose the Fitzwilliam Hospital, Peterborough, the cost is fully covered by the NHS (i.e you don’t need private health insurance).

What does the Fitzwilliam Hospital have to offer patients?

• Over 130 consultants, specialising in a range of areas, notably orthopaedics, gynaecology, general surgery, ear, nose and throat and urology.

• Once a consultant has been assigned to your case, you will stick with him throughout your treatment process.

• Excellent clinical environment with modern facilities and first rate hygiene record • Well-staffed nursing and support services team who make you feel like an individual.

As one patient commented: “all the different disciplines seemed to be pulling in the same direction, with my concerns as their priority.”

• Pleasant environment and good food, giving you a ‘home from home’ experience.

A recent patient described his experience at the Fitzwilliam as follows: “the consultants were excellent, and the key to my recovery, but it was the whole team who made the difference to my rehabilitation.

They treated me as ‘me,’ a person not just a patient, and helped me to have a laugh and get back to being myself. The nurses were friendly, the cleaners were chatty and everyone had a hand in my recovery. They also cared for my wife and daughter when they visited.”

• To find out more, visit www.fitzwilliamhospital.co.uk or call 01733 261717

8 NENE 10 NENEVALLEY VALLEYLIVING LIVINGJuly April 2008 2011

10 UPFRONT_DC.indd 1

15/3/11 15:30:59

Easter Tent and Kayak Show!

Family Tents - Weekend Tents - Backpacking Tents Inflatable and solid Kayaks on display

Oundle FC Football Ground

Stu-Pots

22nd – 25th April

36 Market Place Oundle 01832 275414

Tel: 01832 272050 info@trek-kits.co.uk www.trek-kits.co.uk

Good selection of light bulbs in stock 6 ½ litre Cast Iron Round Casserole Dish

Unit 7 , Eastwood Road Industrial Estate , Oundle PE8 4DF

rrp £99 – down to £59 whilst stocks last!

Full key cutting service: Cylinder, Mortice, Chubb, Union, Yale, Safe, Car and Padlock

11

• NVL April ADS.indd 11

17/3/11 15:55:25

GIFT GUIDE

Easter treats Celebrate the new season with a selection of pretty gifts. Compiled and photographed by Lesley Anne Churchill

4

1 3 2

5

8

6

7

10 11 9

14 12

13

15 12

NENE VALLEY LIVING April 2011

12 13 EASTER_DC.indd 2

15/3/11 15:32:34

17

16

19 20 18

22

21

23 24

25

26

28

1. Chocolate bunny, £1.75, Palmer’s

Chocolate 2. Chocolate hen, £3.25, Palmer’s

Chocolate 3. Heart wooden garland, £8, Foxtail Lilly 4. Tin chicken, £4.50, Crackers 5. Hanging rabbit decoration, £3.50,

Foxtail Lilly 6. Dog and cow decorations, £2.95 each,

Foxtail Lilly 7. Large tin chicken, £12.50, Crackers 8. Vintage print make up bag, £17.99, Reba 9. Real eggshell praline eggs, £3, Palmer’s

Chocolate 10. Oskimo small gift bag, £10.99,

Jitterbug Toys 11. Herdy salt and pepper pots, £26.50,

Greetings 12. Vintage tin, from a selection at Foxtail

Lilly, various prices, mini eggs from

Marks and Spencer 13. Ride on lamb, £41.99, Jitterbug Toys 14. Birdhouse gift box, from a selection at

John Lewis 15. Fake flower, £8.95, Foxtail Lilly 16. Small tin, £1.99, medium tin, £2.99 and

large tin, £4.75, Stu-Pots 17. Spotty egg cup, £4, John Lewis 18. Haba bunny, £6.99, Jitterbug Toys 19. Melissa and Doug Flower Power bead

set, £4.49, Jitterbug Toys 20. Gingham notice board, £22.99,

Jitterbug Toys, cards from a selection at

Foxtail Lilly and Greetings 21. Budkin fairy, £5.75, Jitterbug Toys 22. Hanging duck decoration, £3,

Foxtail Lilly 23. Sass and Belle Bird hooks, £4.99, Reba 24. Felt chick gift bag, Paperchase, lollies

from a selection at Marks and Spencer,

chick lolly, £1.75, Palmer’s Chocolate 25. Bashful bunnies, large, £17.99, medium,

£12.99, Crackers 26. Flutters and Fancy purse, £24.99, Reba 27. Posy floral pad, £4.50 and pen, £1.25,

Paperchase 28. Keep your egg cosy set, £9.95, Stu-Pots 29. Shoes, £79.99, Reba 30. Tea towel, £4.99, oven glove, £5.99 and

tea cosy, £5.99, all Stu-Pots

Stockists

27

30

29

Reba, Cathedral Square, Peterborough PE1 1XH Tel: 01733 319606 Foxtail Lilly, 41, South Road, Oundle, Tel: 01832 274593 Jitterbug Toys, 2 St Osyth’s Lane, Oundle PE8 4EJ Tel: 01832 275252 Crackers, 3 New St, Oundle, PE8 4EA Tel: 01832 274467 Palmer’s Chocolate, The Bazaar, West St, Oundle, PE8 4EJ Tel: 01832 273969 Marks and Spencer, Queensgate, Peterborough PE1 1DU Tel: 01733 311331 Stu-Pots, 36 Market Place, Oundle, PE8 4BE Tel: 01832 273523 Greetings, 6 West St, Oundle PE8 4EF Tel: 01832 272171

NENE VALLEY LIVING April 2011

12 13 EASTER_DC.indd 3

13

15/3/11 15:33:51

W OUR AV ED R St AIL PAC DIN OY art AB K S G AL in g a LE F WI B.B t £ RO LL .Q 10 B fo M 1 E r f st am AP ily RI of L 4

Traditionally home-reared & locally sourced meat & poultry at affordable prices!

Eat for a week!

Senior Citizen Days, Wednesday & Thursdays Main meals £5 – Puddings £2.50 Group bookings available for up to 30, Good location for walking parties

1 ½ lb minced beef, 1 lb chuck steak or large pie, 1 lb sausage (any flavour), 4 burgers, 8 lamb breakfast chops or 4 chicken legs, And 1 whole chicken or 2 lb pork joint, £24.99 - Ideal for the Family

Tel: 01780 740261

The Granary café Tel: 01780 749483

Open: Tue to Fri 7am - 5.30pm, Sat 8am - 4pm, Sun 10am – 4pm

Open: Tue to Fri 9am – 4pm, Sat 8.30am – 5pm, Sun 9am - 4pm

Willow Brook Farm, Scotsman Lodge, Stamford Road, Helpston Heath, Peterborough. PE6 7EL

Free bottle of Wine

Tues - Thurs Free Bottle of House Wine for Groups of Four Also Available Through Sunday Lunch

Open from 12 Tues-Sat for Lunch/Dinner & Sunday Lunch

The Bazaar, West Street Oundle, PE8 4EJ

01832 274730 www.chapeldiningroom.co.uk

T h E F i n EST E n g l i S h C u i S i n E AT

www.willowbrookfarmshop.co.uk

The

Cherry house Restaurant

“ The difference is in the detail...”

Reservations Essential

• For Superb Food & Excellent Service in Delightful Surroundings • We offer fortnightly changed, fixed price menu • For all occasions inc birthday & anniversary celebrations, intimate weddings, wakes...

01733 571721 125 Church Street Werrington Peterborough, PE4 6QF www.cherryhouserestaurant.co.uk

Delicious Local Meat Situated in the picturesque town of Oundle, The Ship Inn is a family owned free house where you will experience the warm and friendly atmosphere of a local, featuring a variety of entertainment and serving delicious home cooked food.

• • • •

Award Winning Real Ales 3 Fully Licensed Bars Home Cooked Food Bed & Breakfast

• • • •

Single & Double Rooms En-suite Weddings & Functions Lively Atmosphere

Live events every week!

Call us on 01832 273918 to find out what’s on…

The Ship Inn, 18 West Street, Oundle, Nr Peterborough PE8 4EF

www.theshipinn-oundle.co.uk

From Farm to Fork Visit us at: 8 West Street, Oundle Tel: 01832 273522 www.sevenwells.co.uk

14

• NVL April ADS.indd 14

17/3/11 10:51:02

FOOD & DRINK

Food news All the latest on local food and drink

T

NENE VALLEY LIVING

RECOMMENDS

his pub was taken over

by Ian Simmons, formerly of The Montague Arms, Barnwell, in 2010, and has quickly established itself as a popular pub for local ales and good food.

Visiting on a Wednesday evening, the restaurant was almost full with families, groups of friends and couples creating a comfortable ambience in contemporary surroundings. Sipping on our local March Hare beer, we pondered over the menu.

I asked Ian for his recommendations and he suggested the scallop and crayfish thermidor, which is one the pub’s most popular starters. The scallops were served in their shells on long white platters, with a delicious, creamy sauce and it came with home made bread. It was a real knockout of a starter. Tim chose the whitebait, which was perfectly cooked and served with fresh, warm bread.

I decided on the venison sirloin for a main course. This was served with sautéed new potatoes, red cabbage and a redcurrant jus. The sweet flavours worked a treat and my venison was tender, pink in the middle just as it should be, and it melted in the mouth. Tim’s choice of slow roasted pork belly, with tasty crackling, new potatoes, vegetables, apple sauce and gravy was cooked just right, and he said it was delicious.

After looking at the dessert menu, we decided we couldn’t resist, and Tim had the vanilla crème brulee, topped with crispy caramel, and he said it was as good as any brulee he’d ever eaten. I tried the vanilla cheesecake with black cherries, which was a delightful combination. We thoroughly enjoyed our meal in this relaxed and modern pub.

Bridget Steele

• The White Swan •

Hambleton Bakery comes to Oundle

Sourdough loaves, artisan bread, English muffins, hand made brownies and delicious cookies will all be on offer at the new Hambleton Bakery franchise, which opens its doors in Oundle in April. Already a big success in Stamford and Oakham, it’s a must for all foodies.

• For the exact opening date, visit www.hambletonbakery. co.uk. The address is 44 Jericho, Market Place, Oundle.

Champagne lifestyle in Stamford Saturday April 2nd sees the opening of Opus Dai in Stamford.

The new venue promises “opulent surroundings and lush style.”

Opus Dai opens in the morning for coffee and Danish pastries, offers a lunch menu, and at the weekends, morphs into an evening destination, with resident DJs playing eclectic Balearic music. If you want to relax with friends, you can book a table in the champagne room, with a dedicated bar and waitress service, where you can order champagne or spirits by the bottle. During the warmer months, there is a patio area, and plans for chilled out live music.

• Opus Dai, 16 Broad Street, Stamford, PE9 1PG

Breakfast on market day If you’re a regular at Oundle Farmers Market on the second Saturday of each month, why not treat yourself to breakfast at The Chapel Bar and Dining Room when you’ve done your shopping? There’s a very tempting menu on offer, such as a full English for £6.50, smoked salmon and scrambled eggs, £6.50, poached egg on toast, £3.50, yoghurt and berry compote, £2.50 and poached haddock, £4.50.

• The Chapel Bar and Dining Room, The Bazaar, West St, Oundle, PE8 4EJ Tel: 01832 274730

8

NENE VALLEY LIVING July 2008

15 FOOD NEWS_DC.indd 1

In a nutshell: Relaxed dining Food served lunch time seven days a week, every evening except Sunday Two courses for £10, Monday to Saturday lunchtimes Head chef: Keith Nickleburgh Average price for two with wine: £50 The White Swan, Main St, Woodnewton, Peterborough PE8 5EB Tel: 01780 470944

Marmalade fit for a king

Bulwick- based business The Pickled Village has produced a special edition marmalade to commemorate this month’s royal wedding. Wedding Breakfast contains thin cut lemon with a splash of crème de cassis. It is stocked at Bulwick Village Stores, plus many farm shops in the region.

Create your own tapas Following the sell-out success of his recent paella masterclasses, Justin Capp, landlord of the King’s Arms, Polebrook, will be running some tapas cookery classes along similar lines in April. “It’s an ideal night out for a group of friends, as you book a table, and over two hours, we’ll be cooking and eating a whole range of tapas,” says Justin. “It’s a whole meal, not just a taster.”

The cost is £25 per person. For dates and details, call 01832 272363. The King’s Arms, King’s Arms Lane, Polebrook, Oundle PE8 5LW. NENE VALLEY LIVING April 2011

15

15/3/11 15:34:53

Lightbulb moment I was working freelance when the idea for the Tiffin Kitchen was born. The seed was planted on holiday in Sri Lanka watching heavily-laden lunch boys deliver meals packed in multi-tiered tiffin tins. I was drawn to the unfussy functionality of the tins and the idea that they could be reused and I wondered what would happen if this concept was applied to the British picnic.

Back home, the thought took root. The idea was to link with outdoor theatre and concert productions where people traditionally brought

their own picnics, and to deliver bespoke, preordered food to audiences on site.

Freelancing began to take a back seat as I contacted event organisers, commandeered a web designer friend (Danny Baggs, I am eternally grateful!) and to my husband’s delight, began to cook in earnest. Oh how I cooked!

Successive attempts at salmon gravadlax meant the family ate cured fish for days. Cakes of lavender and bitter chocolate; rhubarb and polenta; white chocolate and pistachio rose, flopped and rose again; frittatas were filled and fried; dressings, sweet, tangy, savoury, herby were whisked, seasoned, tasted and seasoned again. Cheeses - ahh the cheeses! always British and usually good - were sampled, ruminated upon and selected. The Tiffin Kitchen allotment, from which I now source whatever the slugs, rabbits and deer leave behind, began to display bountiful growth.

A different path And did I – do I – look back? Well, yes. Things aren’t as adrenaline-fuelled as they once were, that’s for sure. My first writing job was cub reporter on the Barking and Dagenham Post.

Car crashes and court reports were my bread and butter before a move to the Hackney Gazette gave me a taste for the underbelly of city life. Drug busts and gang violence became my unlikely oeuvre and before long my appetite for prodding around in dodgy company caught the eye of editors on London’s Evening Standard.

It was a heady time. My first assignment involved days spent literally underground

PHOTOS: LESLEY ANNE CHURCHILL

It’s funny how life turns out.

Ever since I figured out which end of a felt tip would make the most flamboyant mess of my parents’ walls, I knew I wanted to write. So I studied, got a bit lucky, started to call myself a journalist and - to my wonder - persuaded successive regional and national editors, that I was one. Writing became my lifeline, my passion, my (as yet only) skill.

And yet today, I run a food and picnic company, the Tiffin Kitchen, from a sleepy East Northants village, far from the frantic London news desks I used to call home. It’s an aboutturn that surprises me still. But, as Dr Niamh Murtagh, a research fellow from the University of Surrey and author of Decision Making in Voluntary Career Change, observes, that isn’t so surprising. “There’s an assumption that we choose a career and stick to it but that’s frequently not the case,” she says. “An idea, a chance meeting, the image of another possible self – all these can send people on a path they never expected.”

I iI i

Tasha Kosviner explains how she traded life as an investigative reporter for a new career as an upmarket caterer

I Ii I

From Fleet Street to fine dining

L Insider LTradingL

L

LOCAL BUSINESS

interviewing gypsy women who begged on the tube. From there I ran with Bangladeshi street gangs and visited victims of forced marriage, before going undercover to investigate this country’s illegal workforce. Dealings with shifty gang masters and unscrupulous conglomerates opened my eyes to how much our food industry relies on this shadowy underworld.

I can now see that the seeds of my new life were being sown, even back then. That Tiffin Kitchen food should always be fresh, seasonal and locally sourced is a direct result of my investigations. And outside the Standard’s offices, in privileged west London, I spent hours drooling over the menus of classy restaurants I couldn’t afford. Salads of halloumi and pomegranate; a starter of young mozzarella with chilli and cucumber; a buffalo burger in a ciabatta bun: it was exotic and exciting and I wanted in. www.tiffinkitchen.com launched in late spring 2010 and we did our first event –a Laxton School open day – shortly after. A stall at Oundle Carnival followed, and our season culminated with Picnic in the Park at Oundle International Festival. Positive feedback and a steady stream of enquiries for private catering has given me the confidence to grow and improve this year.

Writing is taking a back seat for now, although some food writing assignments suggest things might yet come a full circle.

Hopefully I can manage both jobs –and now two children – side by side. I guess that’s enough adrenaline. For now.

Like I said, it’s funny how life turns out.

8 NENE 16 NENEVALLEY VALLEYLIVING LIVINGJuly April 2008 2011

16 INSIDER_DC.indd 1

17/3/11 16:55:11

Try Something Different Sunday Lunchtime Buffet ONLY £8.95 All you can eat A perfect function venue with panoramic views overlooking the wonderful Cambridgeshire countryside We cater for: Weddings Private Parties Sunday Luncheons Meetings & Conferences Golf Societies & Corporate Days Family run business that cares with professional & friendly staff All enquires please contact Fee Martin or Kati Dalgleish on

either 01832 280189 or fee@efgc.co.uk Bullock Rd, Haddon, Peterborough PE7 3TT

The Walled Garden Centre

Elton Everything you need at your local independent garden centre Grow your own in store now!

Open 7 days a week 9-6pm Sunday 9-5pm – Café 10-5pm

01832 280058

Elton, Peterborough, PE8 6SH www.walledgardencentreelton.co.uk

Daily Lunchtime Special £6.95

The Taste of the Orient

Call us NOW to book

01733 315 702 www.east-restaurant.co.uk Lunch 12-2:30pm Mon-Sat, 12-3:30pm Sun (Buffet) Dinner 5:30-11pm Fri & Sat, 5:30-10:30pm Sun-Thurs Upper Deck, Charters, Town Bridge, Peterborough, PE1 1FP

17

• NVL April ADS.indd 17

17/3/11 15:51:39

FOOD & DRINK

Delicious dim sum

Try a new dining experience with dim sum - light, tasty Chinese snacks with ‘a little bit of heart.’

Linda Lin reports

T

hanks to Imperial Bento’s chef-owner, Wah Chan, local diners have the opportunity to sample an authentic dining experience that is usually difficult to find outside big city Chinatowns such as London, New York, and Hong Kong. From 12 noon to 5 pm every day, the large Peterborough restaurant offers ‘dim sum’ – literally translated from Cantonese as ‘a little bit of heart.’

Dim sum are small Chinese dishes consisting of dumplings, buns, savoury dishes, and sweet desserts that are ordered off a checklist. The meal is particularly enjoyable in larger groups as sharing is encouraged, so more friends means more small dishes (which serve about 3-4 with the equivalent of one dumpling apiece) to sample. Each item on the menu is labelled with the Chinese characters for small, medium, large, or special, with items costing between £2.40 and £4.00. A reasonable rule of thumb is to order two to three items per person. A note of warning, though: it’s easy to misjudge the alignment of boxes and Englishlanguage menu descriptions, so diners are encouraged to ensure the correct item is ordered – else a fish head might unexpectedly turn up in place of an order of dumplings!

Authentic fare Chef Chan has been serving dim sum in Peterborough since the restaurant first opened in 2007. Though his Bento Group owns three restaurants in the area (the others are in Thorney Toll and Wellingborough), all featuring traditional Chinese dishes, Peterborough will remain the only location that will serve dim sum, as making it is highly specialised.

Bento’s dedicated dim sum chef, Colyn Yu, arrives at 8am to begin the time-consuming manual process of mixing fillings, kneading doughs, and individually wrapping the intricate dumplings and tarts. Some of the most popular items on the menu include a selection of fried items including the familiar spring roll (chopped meats and vegetables wrapped in a paper-thin coating and deep fried). Prawn croquettes and yam paste croquettes are also good choices for fans of fried fare.

Diners seeking healthier alternatives have many steamed dishes to choose from, with dumplings being among the most popular. The prawn and chive dumplings, pork and prawn ‘shumai’ and Shanghai pork dumplings are made of a delicate dough skin, surrounding a combination of meat, seafood and vegetables. The honey roast ‘char siu’ pork buns and sweet custard cream buns are airy, slightly-sweet rolls, filled with complementary fillings.

Chan laughs when he notes that his patrons used to want only ‘sweet and sour chicken’ when he first started in the business, but he says today’s diners are much more adventurous. He says: “I have a lot of Westerners who want to try something different – even the chicken claws.”

Duck tongues and fish heads Chicken claws, along with duck tongues and fish heads are among the most exotic items on the menu. Aside from being unusual, all of them are similar in that they are characterised by small amounts of meat on relatively bony body parts, bathed in intensely flavourful sauces. These dishes are popular among the Chinese.

Diners looking to stray off the beaten path, but not too far, are encouraged to try the pork and prawn stuffed bean curd rolls, the cheung fun offerings, or shrimp dumplings in garlic and chilli oil soup. The cheung fun are like Chinese ‘crepes’, with a variety of fillings surrounded by a soft, rice-based wrap, while the bean curd rolls resemble spring rolls, but are surrounded by a sheet of soy-based bean curd and steamed rather than fried.

Vegetarians are warned that traditional dim sum is nearly all meat and seafoodbased. However, diners can always order from Bento’s regular menu which includes a variety of Chinese vegetables as well as rice and noodle dishes. For dessert, Bento offers a sweet mango pudding (similar to a custard) and tasty egg custard tarts, though these often sell out by mid-afternoon. Any patrons unsure about what to order are encouraged to speak to a member of staff, or to ask for manager Dominic Wong, who would be happy to make recommendations.

Mondays and Tuesdays tend to be the most popular days during the week, but Sunday lunchtime is definitely the busiest day for dim sum, and finds the restaurant packed with local Chinese who can attest to the cuisine’s quality and authenticity. Imperial Bento’s dim sum offers a unique alternative to a traditional roast and a taste of the Far East at a reasonable price.

• Imperial Bento, 42 Broadway, Peterborough, 01733 319188

8 NENE 18 NENEVALLEY VALLEYLIVING LIVINGJuly April 2008 2011

18 FOOD_DC.indd 1

15/3/11 15:36:32

Exceptional Eyecare

• Thorough 40 minute eye examination • Digital retinal photography • All glaucoma checks • Lifestyle, tailored eye examination • Contact lenses and aftercare • Top quality lenses & coatings

Specialist Eyewear

• Handmade from top-quality materials • Intelligently engineered • Bespoke • Frames from 1.9 grams • Designer • Wraparound prescription sunglasses

Service

• Honest advice • Personal service • Digital photography to compare frames • Fabulous coffee!

SUNGLASS PARTY 14TH APRIL ...

10% OFF ALL SUNGLASS FRAMES PURCHASED ON THE DAY (invite only- please call Gerry or Emma for details)

24 WESTGATE ARCADE, QUEENSGATE CENTRE,PETERBOROUGH PE1 1PY

T- 01733555621 W www.theoculist.com PRESERVING LIFE THROUGH YOUR CHILD’S BABY TEETH Peterboroughdentist.co.uk in conjunction with BioEDEN are offering a pioneering service which involves collecting stem cells from teeth which in the future could be used to treat illnesses and disease.

The stem cells can be used, if needed, by either the person from whom the tooth originally came, or for their immediate family if compatible.

To find out more, contact your chosen practice at

www.peterboroughdentist.co.uk

Circles of Yaxley Chapel Studio Chapel Street Yaxley Peterborough PE7 3LN

Ladies High Class Fashion Agency

Tel: (01733) 242539 Est. over 20 years

A wonderful range of clothes and accessories at a fraction of the original cost Discover the secret of saving £££'s From Casual Wear to Special Occasions and Ball Gowns Good quality fashionable clothes always welcome and sold on your behalf.

Girls why not bring us your Prom Dresses?

Labels from Designers to well known High Street - all under one roof!

Come and find something different. Open Tuesday - Saturday 10am - 4pm

NEW SEASON STOCK NOW IN

by Tracy Maddox Beautiful nails using a unique UV Light Curing Gel from LCN Exclusive agent for Real Diamonds for nails from £30.00

Established 14 years. Level 2 & 3

42-46 School Road, Newborough, Peterborough PE6 7RG

Tel: 01733 810071

www.tracymaddox-naturalnails.co.uk

19

• NVL April ADS.indd 19

17/3/11 10:51:34

PERSPECTIVES

Working the river John Todd loved boating so much he sold his farm to carve a new career on the River Nene.

Words and photographs by Dave Phillips

20

NENE VALLEY LIVING April 2011

20 21 BOATS_DC.indd 2

15/3/11 15:37:40

T

hose of us fortunate to live in the lush valley of the River Nene know that it’s a very special place. But few of us love it so much that we would be prepared to sell up everything and start a new life living – and making a living – along its meandering course.

But that’s what farmer John Todd did. After spending a couple of idyllic summer holidays afloat on the Nene’s willow-lined waters, he decided to sell off his smallholding at Weldon and begin a new life on the river.

“I loved boating, but it cost £1000 to hire a narrow boat for a week and I worked out that I could make a living working on the river and my boat

would pay for itself,” says John, 32. He took the plunge two years ago, buying a 68-foot steel hull, upon which he built his boat, which combines cosy living quarters with a much larger cargo area, capable of carrying several tons of cargo. As he planned to make the boat work for its living, this was a crucial addition.

To cut costs, John built most of the decks and interior from reclaimed wood – mainly old pallets. A traditional cast-iron stove heats the interior and provides hot water. The boat is powered by a 50-year-old diesel engine that versatile John restored himself.

“The engine started life as one of a pair used to power a fishing trawler,” says John. “It’s a four-cylinder Ford 4D, built in the late 1950s and early 60s, which was also used on Fordson tractors and Thames Trader lorries at that time.

It’s only about 50 horsepower, but it’s ideal for pulling a big, heavy boat at low speeds.”

A life afloat John’s work takes him the full length of the navigable Nene, all the way upstream to Northampton, where the river connects with the Grand Union Canal, which in turn is the gateway to the entire inland waterways system. He spent six weeks of the most severe weather last winter on the canal near Crick, close to the Warwickshire border, where ice more than a foot thick meant he couldn’t move. When it did thaw out, he headed off to Foxton Locks near Market Harborough, to spend a few weeks with fellow boatmen, before returning to the Nene near Oundle.

Making a living can involve delivering large loads of timber, towing heavy barges for the Environment Agency or British Waterways, or carrying out odd jobs. In his past life as a farmer, John had to be resourceful and learned a full complement of skills including carpentry, welding, mechanics and building work – all of which he’s happy to put to good use.

A two-boat family But, most importantly, John’s found an inner peace living and working on the river. He’s also found love. He met his girlfriend, Rosemary Robinson, last year. She joined him on his boat for a few weeks and fell in love with both the boatman and his way of life – so much so that she has now bought a 58-foot narrow boat of her own.

“We’ll be a two-boat family,” laughs Rosemary, who admits that her boat will provide more spacious living accommodation, including a better-equipped galley (boatspeak for kitchen) and an all-important bathroom and shower. It will also provide her with a livelihood, too. Farmer’s daughter Rosemary is a trained horticulturist who plans to turn the roof of her boat into a floating garden centre, from which she’ll sell herbs and vegetables to fellow boaters, as well as container plants to tourists.

For John and Rosemary it’s an idyllic lifestyle, waking up in the morning to the sound of water lapping against the bedroom window and a family of swans waiting to share their breakfast. But they’re both aware that it also involves hard work.

Back in their heyday in the 19th century, Britain’s inland waterways were the motorways of their time. They suffered a decline through the advent of first the railways and later road transport, but using the waterways is the most environmentally-friendly way of transporting freight and today they are enjoying a revival.

“Our ambition is to explore all of the country’s inland waterways, but the reality is that we will travel to wherever we get the work,” says John. “When you travel by boat you get to see places in a different way to how you’d see them on land.”

“Wherever we go we’ll have a wonderful time,” adds Rosemary.

• John and his boat are available for hire. Contact him by phone on 07813 208042 or email rosemaryrobinson270@gmail.com NENE VALLEY LIVING April 2011

20 21 BOATS_DC.indd 3

21

15/3/11 15:38:05

HEALTH & BEAUTY

Health & beauty

notes Bridget Steele has the latest news from local health and beauty businesses

Get glowing with Africology Zula Beauty Sanctuary is within the Holiday Inn West, at Thorpe Wood, Peterborough and as well as offering a wide range of beauty treatments including CACI, Epil-pro hair removal and massage, and treatments for men, it specialises in Africology facial and body treatments that focus on de-stressing and anti-ageing. I tried an Africology Repair Facial, designed to encourage cell renewal and rejuvenate the face.I felt relaxed very quickly as my face was cleansed and massaged, my feet tucked into cosy warmed mitts. A repairing mask is left to work on the face while I was given a neck and shoulder massage with beautifully scented African oils. Afterwards, my skin felt rejuvenated and fresh. This was an ultimate relaxation treatment that was much more than just a facial. The treatment takes about an hour and costs £38.

• Zula Beauty Sanctuary, The Holiday Inn, Thorpe Wood, Peterborough PE3 6SG Tel: 01733 289995 www.zulabeauty.co.uk

A healthy smile Choosing a dentist can be a daunting experience, but booking a trial consultation can help you to make a decision. I went along to The Matley Dental Surgery at Orton Brimbles, Peterborough and booked in for a check up with Tosh, one of the partners. This practice is relaxed and friendly and the staff immediately put me at ease. First, we had a chat about any dental concerns I had, and then x-rays were taken. Given the ‘all clear,’ I then booked to see the hygienist and had a chat with the Practice Manager, Wendy Squire, who explained that I could become a private patient and pay each time I visit, or I could join the Denplan Care scheme, where I pay a monthly fee which covers all necessary treatment, check ups and hygienist appointments.

The monthly fee is assessed from the initial check up on any previous treatment and likelihood of future dental treatment.

This does not change, and costs from £12.94 monthly.

Matley Dental Surgery is open daily and Wednesday until 7pm. The surgery also offers the Enlighten tooth whitening system and cosmetic treatments.

• Matley Dental Surgery, Matley, Peterborough PE2 5YQ Tel: 01733 230066.

Pure Health and Beauty expands Pure Health and Beauty, in Glapthorn near Oundle now has a third therapist.

Samantha Cable (far right) is working with Becky Postlethwaite and salon owner, Jayne Reading as the newly decorated salon increases its treatments, including upgraded CACI machines, and continues to attract new clients. Opening times are Mondays to Thursdays, 9.30 - 7.30 pm, Friday and Saturday until 5pm.

• Pure Health and Beauty, The Old Stables, Church Farm, Glapthorn, Nr Oundle Peterborough PE8 5BE Tel: 01832 272310

A pool in your own property Crightons Hydropools recently opened in Peterborough and their Canadian manufactured pools are not only for relaxation purposes but also offer health and fitness benefits. I went along to try some different pools. First, the 19ft rectangular pool, ideal for people who want a multi purpose pool. It’s heated to a consistent 31 degrees centrigrade and has massage jets at one end. I tried swimming against a medium current – it feels natural, and unlike being in a swimming pool, there are no turns or obstacles. Managing director Gavin Elsey explains: “the pools are ideal for those looking for all sorts of fitness training: a fitness package with the pool includes resistance bands, water treadmill, floating dumbbells and aqua-rowing machine and offers an easy way to keep fit”.

I then moved on to the 38 degrees centigrade Hydropool and lay back on the body shaped therapy seats. The water jets massage from the feet upwards and turning up the power offers a stimulating massage to the whole body. The seats are deep enough to keep the body immersed and the pool is designed to be used year round.

Crightons Hydropool recently won an award for the Best Hydropool Showroom in the World, the pools are beautifully built and come with a wide range of options.

Before purchase, Crightons will visit your home to survey the proposed pool area and offer advice on power supply and landscaping. The pools are energy efficient and many are self cleaning.

• For more information contact Crightons Hydropool Ltd, 5 Titan Drive, Fengate East, Peterborough, PE1 5XN Tel: 01733 305140 www.crightons-hydropool.co.uk

STOP PRESS STOP PRESS STOP PRESS The Hair Boutique at the Haycock Hotel, Wansford, is holding a coffee morning on Wednesday 20th April in aid of Cancer Research UK. The salon will be offering free blow dries, consultations, goody bags, tea, coffee and cakes, plus some brilliant raffle prices. Tel: 01780 781102 for more information and to book a consultation.

8 NENE 22 NENEVALLEY VALLEYLIVING LIVINGJuly April 2008 2011

22 H&B_DC.indd 1

15/3/11 15:40:37

Matley Dental Surgery Get Ready For Spring Free file & paint on toes when you book top to toe waxing.

Includes half leg, bikini line or brazillian, underarm and eyebrow wax.

Accepting new patients for private dental care Professional dentistry in a relaxed and friendly environment A family dental practice offering preventive care and cosmetic treatments ÂŁ15 discount on your initial consultation

Denplan

Enlighten Whitening

Matley, Orton Brimbles, Peterborough PE2 5YQ

(01733)230066

G ift vo Pa p uch ym res er en en s m ov t ca ts fo ake er n r g ph be all. rea on ta t ke e n

Valid until end of April 2011 For more information or free consultation

please call: 01832 272310

Opening Times Mon 9.30-7.30 Tue 9.30-7.30 Wed 9.30-7.30, Thur 9.30-7.30 Fri 9.30-5.00 Sat 8.00-5.00

Pure Health & Beauty

The Old Stables, Church Farm, Glapthorn, Nr Oundle, Peterborough, PE8 5BE

The choice is yours when creating time for what matters....

Introducing Cambridgeshire's only supplier of Hydropool Self Cleaning Hot Tubs and Swim Spas.

Crightons Hydropool (Peterborough) Ltd . 5 Titan Drive . Fenagte East . Peterborough . PE1 5XG Tel: 01733 305140 . Web: www.crightons-hydropool.co.uk

C r i g h t o n s H y d r o p ool (Pet erborough) Ltd

23

• NVL April ADS.indd 23

17/3/11 10:51:46

“Fabulous in skinny jeans.”

The Hair Boutique

The Haycock Hotel, Wansford

Ladies & Gents Styling

“My weight was holding me back from living my life.

Thanks to the skills I’ve learned with LighterLife I now know how to keep the weight off.”

Opening Times Sun/Mon/Thurs: Closed Tues: 9am – 5pm, Weds: 9am – 8pm Fri: 9am – 5pm, Sat: 9am – 3pm

CAROL AT SIZE 20

Cutting, Colouring, Perming, Brazilian blow dry, Conditioning Treatment Head Massage NOW A SIZE 8

ORDINARY PEOPLE. EXTRAORDINARY SUCCESS. Call

Julie Larrington, Elton Nr. Peterborough

01832 280459 or visit

lighterlife.com/julielarrington

Relaxing and spacious hair salon within the grounds of the beautiful Haycock Hotel

Please call: 01780 781102 www.wansfordshairboutique.com

24

• NVL April ADS.indd 24

17/3/11 10:51:57

local business

Join the club

Companies are increasingly using local business networks to expand their contacts, share knowledge and promote themselves to interested parties. Fiona Cumberpatch reports

N

Finding the right group for you That said, there are many mixed sex groups operating successfully in the area. These include The Business Club, Peterborough,

“Networking is more beneficial than knocking on doors – and a lot less expensive.”

New to networking?

Barbara Hodgson of the Women in Business Network offers some advice • Before you go to your first meeting, ask for a list of attendees. Look them up on the Net before you go.

• You have two ears and one mouth: use them proportionately!

• Make a badge with your name and business and wear it on the right hand side of your jacket (people look to the right first) • When you introduce yourself, say your name twice, for example: “I’m Rebecca, Rebecca Smith of Smith Software.”

• Take some business cards and wear a jacket with two pockets. Put your cards in one side, and those you collect in the other.

• Try not to stand in closed circles. Step out slightly to one side, so you’re not excluding anyone from your group.

• Don’t be afraid to say that you need to move on once you’ve had a chat. It’s helpful to set networking goals, e.g to meet three new people in one evening Barbara is running an express networking group on Thursday May 12 in The Talbot Hotel, Oundle. No need to book, just turn up, buy your own coffee and network with whoever is there. Contact Barbara on 0844 3244034 for more details.

Cambridgeshire Chambers of Commerce, 4Networking and BNI. Then there are smaller, less formal organisations, such as Oundle and District Association of Trade and Commerce and Oundle Women’s Networking Group. As Peter Watts, business development manager of the Cambridgeshire Chambers of Commerce points out, it’s not unusual for business people to belong to one, two or even three separate networking organisations - and that’s perfectly

acceptable.

“We are very free and open 99 per cent of the time,” he explains of the group, which has over 3,000 individual members. “We work with some of the other networking groups, such as Peterborough Business Club, and even arrange joint events.” Equally, the Chambers of Commerce does not limit membership to one representative from each profession. “You may find that we have ten or 15 lawyers in one 2

Continued on page 26

etworking is as old as the hills, but it’s only relatively recently that it has become a formalised activity. Whereas a pint in the pub or a deal discussed over lunch might have done the trick back in the mists of time, increased competition and hectic schedules mean that things have now changed.

So successful is the new way of doing things, that some business people might even contend that it’s at least as effective at generating new business as advertising or public relations. But successful networking is a relatively subtle art.

“Networking is not about selling,” says Barbara Hodgson, of the Women in Business Network (WIBN), who runs six thriving groups with 135 members in the Leicester, Market Harborough, Stamford and Kettering areas. “It’s about building strategic relationships with other businesses, rather than being in competition with them.”

Barbara’s women-only groups meet over lunch on a monthly basis. Only one representative from each profession is allowed.

“Women come to the meetings ready to give, rather than take,” says Barbara. “And when that’s the case, you find that everyone gets business. It all happens very naturally.”

Why women only? “Men’s networking is done in a different way,” contends Barbara. Lindsey Reed of Glows Coaching, agrees. She became involved in networking over five years ago, when she set up her careers coaching business and she favours women-only groups.

“Men may be more results-driven, so they network in a different way to women,” she says.

“Some groups will actually quantify how much business has been swapped, using hard figures for referral rates and visits. We don’t do that at WIBN. It’s more supportive, with everyone encouraging everyone else.”

NENE VALLEY LIVING April 2011

25 26 NETWORKING_DC.indd 1

25

15/3/11 15:41:21

local business

Continued from page 25

2 sector,” says Peter. “But they will trade ideas, swap concerns and discuss new legislation which is perhaps affecting them all. It’s more about sharing skills than being in competition with each other.”

Business development manager of the Peterborough Business Club, David Black, agrees. “Yes, some people may feel that they are competitors, but we try to engender a spirit of cooperation, that it’s about giving, not taking,” he explains. “We foster strategic alliances, working with each other and helping each other out. The overall aim of our Club is to provide an environment for forward thinking business people to develop and grow.” David has his own business, and he comments: “if you do it right, networking is more beneficial than trying to knock on doors - and it’s a lot less expensive!”

Although networking has been around for years (the Chambers of Commerce is now 150 years old), the way in which it is done has changed. Now, speed networking breakfasts and ‘elevator speeches’ (short, punchy summaries of your company) are the order of the day. “It has changed many times, and it will change again,” says Peter Watts. “You have to move on to suit the business environment and the economic climate.”

26

Successful speech-making Lindsey Reed, a licensed careers coach from Glows Coaching, gives tips for an effective one minute presentation 1. Before you join a network, go as a guest, and make sure you get someone to tell you what happens during the meeting beforehand. Most follow a set pattern and it’s less daunting if you familiarise yourself with the format first.

2. Do some preparation for your speech: plan what you’re going to say, speak it out loud several times, and time it so you stick to the allotted slot.

3. When it’s your turn to talk, stand up with definition. Stand tall and straight while delivering your message. Try to appear relaxed, even if you don’t feel it. Make it clear when you’ve finished: don’t sink back into your chair mumbling apologetically.

Lindsey is running a workshop, Business Network with Confidence, on Wednesday May 11th. You will learn how to portray a positive image and how to deliver a powerful one minute speech. The cost is £49. Call Lindsey on 01832 280 168 or 07789 622652.

Popular local networking groups (more are available) The Business Club, 26 Tesla Court, Lynch Wood, Peterborough PE2 6FL Tel: 01733 513003 The Women in Business Network, Leicester North, Leicester City, Market Harborough, Stamford, Kettering, Wellingborough.

Tel: 0844 324 4034 4 Networking, www.4networking.biz BNI Peterborough (POSH) Chapter. www.bnipeterborough.co.uk Oundle and District Association of Trade and Commerce, c/o Bulley Davey Chartered Certified Accountants, 6 North St, Oundle, Peterborough PE8 4AL Tel: 01832 273150 Oundle Women’s Networking Group Contact: Rachel Palmer 01832 273969 • Membership fees, terms, conditions and frequency and style of meetings varies from group to group. Please contact them to find out more

NENE VALLEY LIVING April 2011

25 26 NETWORKING_DC.indd 2

15/3/11 15:41:47

Great Offers only available this month* 25% discount for Wills, Care Home Fees Planning and Lasting Powers of Attorney.

Free initial advice on any Personal Injury accident.

Contact Martin Herson on 01733 888906

Contact Stephen Duffy on 01733 888879 A one-hour Family and Matrimonial consultation for ÂŁ100+ VAT. Contact Lyn Brisley on 01733 888841

Buckles Solicitors LLP Grant House 101 Bourges Boulevard Peterborough PE1 1NG Office also at Stamford

*Offer expires Friday 27th May 2011, please quote ref: BUCNEN111 at the time of making an appointment, failure to do so invalidates this offer.

01733 888888 www.buckles-law.co.uk enquiries@buckles-law.co.uk Buckles Solicitors LLP is regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority

27

• NVL April ADS.indd 27

17/3/11 10:52:08

28

• NVL April ADS.indd 28

17/3/11 10:52:19

LOCAL BUSINESS

Oundle gets weaving Carpets are now being made locally, thanks to the foresight of Peter Peel, affectionately known around town as ‘the carpet man.’Sue Dobson talked to him about his new venture

P

eter Peel is passionate about buying British and deeply concerned that the country is losing skills and industries. “Most people now work in the service sectors,” he says. “We’ve got to start making goods again, bringing industries back, otherwise Britain will be decimated by imports.”

Ever one to back his beliefs, Peter has started manufacturing carpets as well as continuing to sell his existing, vast range of flooring from his base on Eastwood Road, Oundle. “Now, anything people want we can get, or make to order. Our carpets will be entirely British made, from the yarn to the finished product.”

Peter’s interest in carpets began as a

teenager when he had a Saturday job working with a carpet fitter. Developing a fascination for Persian and Oriental carpets, in his spare time he read everything he could find on the subjects and soon began an apprenticeship with the renowned furnishing firm of Waring and Gillow. “I learned about carpet weaving back then, so it feels as though I’ve come full circle,” he smiles.

With a lifetime in the furnishing world he came to Oundle in 2004, first selling rugs and then expanding into a flourishing carpet and flooring business, quickly gaining a reputation for providing good quality, personal service and value for money. The next step seemed to be manufacturing carpets, “before all the looms have been sold off to China, Poland and Brazil.”

Finding a weaver Having sourced the machines he was looking for, he then had to find someone to work them.

When a friend introduced him to Jana Potter, he knew he’d found the right person and his project could go ahead.

Originally from the Czech Republic, where she studied maths and physics at university and qualified as a secondary school teacher, Jana is a member of the Peterborough Guild of Spinners, Weavers and Dyers.

“My mother taught me knitting, crocheting and embroidery at home and I’ve always liked fabrics and been interested in textiles,” she says. When her husband, fellow physicist Jason Potter, who runs The Courtyard Bookshop in Oundle, found a spinning wheel in an Oundle auction and bought it for her, Jana started to take weaving seriously and now has several different types of looms at their home on which she weaves everything from fabrics to rugs and

8

NENE VALLEY LIVING July 2008

29 CARPET WEAVER_DC.indd 1

wall-hangings.

“I’m smitten by machines. I like to see how things work and discover what machinery can do, so I was very happy to do a training course in Suffolk for Peter’s carpets. I also particularly enjoy working with wool, so it’s a good combination. I still love maths, but there’s more satisfaction in making something.”

British wool The carpets being made in Oundle are all 80 per cent wool in 40oz, 50oz and 60oz twist.

Those woven for stock come in ten traditional furnishing colours but any colour can be matched to order. They could, for example, match a shade taken from curtain or upholstery material, or in the case of businesses, a company logo.

“We’ll send the requested colour to the yarn dyers, then create a sample square for the client to see and approve,” Peter tells me. “We can do stripes, spots, patterns, plains, whatever is required. I’ve always enjoyed finding unusual or special carpets for people, so being able to actually make them is an exciting prospect.”

The stock carpets cost from around £25-£26 a square metre and can be made in any width from 50cm to 7 metres, so there is little waste.

Measuring and fitting is all part of the Oundle Carpet Weavers’ service.

“There’s so much poor quality being imported now and people are being taken in by inflated prices that are then seemingly deep discounted.

I believe they deserve better – better quality and better service, at a fair price. We can provide all that here in Oundle.”

• Oundle Carpet Weavers, Units 4/6, Eastwood Road, Oundle PE8 4DF. Tel: 01832 275009.

NENE VALLEY LIVING April 2011

29

15/3/11 15:43:17

MOTORING

Classic speed Meet the local team taking the racing world by storm in a 42-year-old car that does 150mph.

Dave Phillips reports

Gary Raffray (above) and at the wheel of the 1969 Marcos GT classic sports car, capable of 150mph

M

That first season – 2010 – went well… until the otor racing is like Marmite: you either love engine seized up in a race. or hate it. Hundreds of thousands of fans RACE DATES Since then, the car has been treated to a will flock to the British Grand Prix at Silverstone Why not come and watch them in action? race-tuned 3.0-litre V6 engine, new gearbox this summer, yet equal numbers of detractors The team will be racing this year at the and uprated transmission, suspension and will bemoan the high-octane lifestyle of its following venues and dates: brakes – the latter essential with a 250 millionaire drivers.

April 10 Snetterton, Norfolk horsepower car that’s capable of 150mph.

But that’s because Formula 1 has come April 25 Castle Combe, Wiltshire ‘This will enable us to be challenging for to epitomise motor racing, when in fact it is May 7 Brands Hatch, Kent class wins this year,’ says Gary. ‘We’ll be only a tiny – albeit noisy – part of the motor May 29 Donington Park, Derbyshire competing against various different cars from racing scene. Just as the overpaid Premiership June 25 Oulton Park, Cheshire the 1960s. The Classic Sports Car Club was set footballers are vastly outnumbered by Sunday July 24 Cadwell Park, Lincolnshire up in 2001 by enthusiast racers who wanted to league amateurs, so for every preening F1 star August 7 Anglesey, North Wales offer racing at grass roots level and since then there are thousands of amateur racing drivers.

August 29 Mallory Park, Leicestershire has grown to over 800 members and runs We’ve even got our own local stars.

September 18 Silverstone, Northamptonshire more than ten race weekends each year.’

Peterborough-based Crystal Racing comprises October 1 Castle Combe, Wiltshire Unlike the extravagant world of Formula 1, owner-driver Gary Raffray, helped by his October 23 Snetterton, Norfolk amateur racing sees teams like Crystal digging friends Daryl Ling and Peter Naumann. The trio deep into their own pockets. Happily they have spent hundreds of hours – and thousands of received backing from internet company HASSTAR to help pay the bills, pounds – restoring a 1969 Marcos GT classic sports car, with which they but they are looking for more sponsors (who in return get their names now compete in the Classic Sports Car Club’s Swinging Sixties race series.

Gary, 43, recalls: ‘The car had been in storage for over eight years when plastered on a car watched by tens of thousands of spectators).

‘It is an exciting sport for spectators and relatively inexpensive. Entry I bought it and it had suffered a bit, but the wooden chassis and fibreglass is as little at £10 at most circuits and children under eight usually go body were all sound. free,’ says Gary. ‘We’d love to see readers of Nene Valley Living come to ‘It took us two years to get it back on the road, which entailed a full support us. If you do come along, make sure you come and say hello so strip-down of all the mechanical parts. The engine was rebuilt and the we can show you round the car.’ car re-sprayed. The car was run on the road until July 2009, when it was stripped down and race-prepared.’

• You can find out more about the team on its website: www.crystalIn order to comply with racing rules, a roll cage, racing seat, fire racing.co.uk extinguishing circuit and uprated front brakes and suspension were fitted.

8 NENE 30 NENEVALLEY VALLEYLIVING LIVINGJuly April 2008 2011

30 CLASSIC CARS_DC.indd 1

15/3/11 15:44:20

Hurford &Tebbutt KITCHENS AND BEDROOMS SINCE 1969

www.hur ford-tebbutt.com

www.rutlandshutters.co.uk Complete Kitchen or Bedroom refurbishment or simply update with new doors, sinks, worktops and appliances for a refreshing look

01733 561991

Hurford &Tebbutt 17 - 18 Fenlake Business Centre.

Fengate. Peterborough PE1 5BQ

31

• NVL April ADS.indd 31

17/3/11 10:52:30

ACTIVITIES

W O O D L A N D WA L KS N o .1

Prior’s Coppice Prior’s Coppice, situated just to the south of Braunston in Rutland, is an ancient ash-maple and ash-wych elm woodland. Its character derives from being tucked away on the side of a hill, far away from anywhere OS map Ref: SK 832051 (Sheet 141) Size and status: The reserve covers 69 acres (29 ha) and is a Site of Special Scientific Interest. It is managed by the Leicestershire and Rutland Wildlife Trust http://lrwt.org.uk Directions and parking: From Braunston take the road towards Leighfield. After negotiating a sharp left hand bend at the top of the hill take the next right turn, sign-posted to Leighfield Lodge. Proceed another 800m and you will see the reserve car park on the right, just before a gate across the road.

Terrain: North-facing slope. Tiny tributary of Gwash on north edge of wood.

Dogs: are permitted on this nature reserve but only under strict control - able to bring to heel at all times.

Suggested route: 1.5 mile circuit of the wood, allow an hour including nature stops.

Perfect for: A leisurely stroll for nature lovers, getting away from it all.

HISTORY OF THE WOOD Prior’s Coppice was probably never cleared of trees because the combination of steep north facing slope and the very heavy clay soil must have made it seem a very unpromising place for cultivation.

Instead the villagers of Braunston and Brooke would have made use of the site as a source of timber and wood for fuel, building materials, etc.

Evidence of traditional management exists throughout the site in the form of giant coppice ‘stools’. There are specimens in Prior’s Coppice with stools 5 metres across, which must be several hundred years old.

WHAT YOU CAN SEE Trees: ash-maple and ash-wych elm Plants: 230 species of flowering plants and ferns have been recorded, and there are large colonies of wood anemone, early-purple orchid, wood-sorrel and wood forget-me-not. Notable

32

Braunston

Brooke

Leicestershire and Rutland Wildlife Trust

– Suggested route



Exit Leigh Lodge Cottages

plants include broad-leaved helleborine. The rides contain many attractive species such us ragged-robin and common spotted-orchid.

Birds: 71 species of birds have been noted.

There are good numbers of nuthatch, blackcap, garden warbler and many others. Rare visitors have included pied flycatcher and redstart.

Butterflies: Orange tip and brimstone butterflies are common in spring. Both purple and white-letter hairstreaks are present. More than 200 species of moth have been recorded.

Animals: Badger, fox, stoat, muntjac and grass-snake SUGGESTED ROUTE There are several tracks and rides through the wood, as shown on the map. Our suggested route takes you on a circuit of the wood.

• Shortly after you have entered the wood from the car park, take a left turn along a welldefined track. Follow this as it twists and turns, crossing over a wider ride and proceeding until

the track veers right as it reaches the westerly end of the wood.

• The track steadily becomes narrower, but is easy to follow, and from time to time there are yellow markers. The track continues to follow round about 20-30 metres from the edge of the wood. You cross over the two wider rides once again and enter the eastern end of the wood. At the end of the wood you bear right back up the slope, and then when you have regained your height the path leads back through the wood to where you began.

Making it part of a longer walk Approx: 7 miles From here you could follow the footpaths to the south end of Launde Park Wood, walk through that wood and then connect back via the Leicestershire Round which touches the north end of Launde Park Wood. You then join up with the Rutland Round, which passes by the western perimeter of Prior’s Coppice, from whence you could track back up through the wood to the car. You will need OS Map 141 for this.

NENE VALLEY LIVING April 2011

32 WALK.indd 3

18/3/11 14:26:26

East Northamptonshire escape. explore. enjoy.

East Northamptonshire has all the ingredients for a great day out this Spring.

Our diverse towns are packed full of history and charm, and yet bustle with modern shops. Explore renowned country houses, gardens and museums.

Take a relaxing walk or pedal your way through Rockingham Forest and discover more than 500 miles of footpaths and bridleways. Get mucky in our country parks and get the kids to see how many different varieties of birds they can spot.

Try something different and paddle by canoe along the River Nene, the perfect way to explore our hidden hamlets. Experience special events and enjoy our friendly country pubs and restaurants.

Canoeing on the river

With so much to see and do on your doorstep, make East Northamptonshire your ďŹ rst choice for a great day out. st ugh the fore Cycling thro

For ideas of places to visit log on to www.east-northamptonshire.gov.uk or contact the Oundle Customer Service Centre on 01832 274333.

33

• NVL April ADS.indd 33

17/3/11 16:52:18

Curtains, Blinds, Soft Furnishings & Fabrics from

J & S Interiors

A local, family-run business with excellent service values • CUSTOM MADE CURTAINS

(pencil, pinch, eyelets, valances, pelmet boards, swags & tails) • ROMAN BLINDS

• VENETIAN, ROLLER & VERTICAL BLINDS • CONSERVATORY BLIND SPECIALIST (perfect fit system)

• WALLCOVERINGS

• WOODEN SHUTTERS Book a free home visit to measure and discuss your requirements and receive a no-obligation quotation.

Harlequin, Prestigious, Crowson, Wilman, Villa Nova and many more!

WE HAVE MOVED TO HAMPTON

J & S Interiors

30 Phorpres Close - Hampton - Peterborough - PE7 8FZ Email: sales@jandsinteriors.uk.com - www.jandsinteriors.uk.com

Telephone: 01733 558864

(Left at Mercedes roundabout to the end)

THE LAMPSHADE WAREHOUSE Est.1986

The Largest Independent Lighting Showroom in Cambridgeshire

Opening Hours - Tues-Fri 9-5 Sat 9-4 The Lampshade Warehouse

10 Saville Road, Westwood Peterborough, PE3 7PR

01733 264391

www.thelampshadewarehouse.co.uk 34

• NVL April ADS.indd 34

17/3/11 10:52:54

Room to Live

Image of Local installation by QKS

Showroom Cherryholt Road, Stamford, PE9 2EQ

Creators of finest quality bespoke Orangeries & Conservatories

Tel: 01780 756666

Orangeries Lanter n Rooms Conservatories

Mon-Fri 9am-5pm,

Windows Doors Folding Sliding Door Systems

Sat 10am-3pm

Vertical Sliding Windows Roofline Products Porches

www.qks-ltd.co.uk

Heritage Secondary Glazing

t.

Es

Est

Loca

. 198

l Comp

1 - 30 Ye

an

y

ars

HUNTERS INTERIORS Introducing Travers an exciting new collection full of fresh designs to wash away the winter blues!!!

Monday - Friday 9.00am - 5.00pm Saturday by appointment The Dairy, Copthill Farm Enterprises, Deeping Road, Uffington, Stamford, Lincs. PE9 4TD. Tel 01780 757946 Fax 01780 753351 E info@huntersinteriorsofstamford.co.uk W www.huntersinteriorsofstamford.co.uk

35

• NVL April ADS.indd 35

17/3/11 10:53:03

Weekly events Sewing Class Sewing Class After School Club Knitting Surgery Sewing Salon

Monday Wednesday Wednesday Wednesday Thursday

9.00am – 12.30pm 9.00am – 12.30pm 4.30pm – 6.00pm 7.00pm – 9.30pm 9.00am – 1.00pm

Finishing Techs. for Knitting Fabric Flower Corsages Professional Curtain Making Rag Rugs Summer bags Beginners Sewing Workshop

Saturday 19 March Wednesday 13 April Wednesday 4 May Saturday 14 May Thursday 19 May Saturday 21 May

10.00am – 4.30pm 10.00am – 4.30pm 10.00am – 4.30pm 10.00am – 4.30pm 10.00am – 4.30pm 10.00am – 4.30pm

Forthcoming Workshops

SO LD

ROWANTREE

WORKSHOPS C L A S S E S SHORT COURSES

For more information about classes, parties, events for small groups.

Contact Margaret Rowan on 01780 783323 - 24 Station Road, Nassington, PE8 6QB e-mail margaret@rowantreeworkshops.co.uk www.rowantreeworkshops.co.uk

Selling & renting the region’s finest properties using a combination of experience, high quality marketing literature and the prime websites, from our Oundle & London offices, to reach the Regional, National and International buyers.

However, if publicity is not for you, we can offer a discreet sales or rental service, often introducing quality buyers, from London and overseas, without presenting your property to the open market.

Talk to us about your requirements and to see how we can help you.

Oundle Office 12 Market Place, Oundle, PE8 4BQ T 01832 274732 E info@woodfordandco.com

Küchen Kraft w w w. k u c h e n k r a f t . c o . u k

Kitchen,Bedroom and Bathroom showroom with the areas largest selection of working kitchens and bathroom displays under one roof.

PEACE OF MIND WITH OUR VVVVV DEPOSIT PROTECTION

FANTASTIC SALE – 20% OFF ALL BECKERMANN P L U S F re e S i e m e n s KITCHENS PURCHASED THIS MONTH Dishwasher free planning | full installation | worktops | flooring | tiling Showroom, 81 West Street, Oundle, Northamptonshire PE8 4EJ 01832 270300

36

• NVL April ADS.indd 36

17/3/11 15:52:37

WHAT’S ON

Yasmin Bradley picks events for April

1 2

PLAY: Turned Out Nice Again!

Granny Flo’s collection of old postcards, shells and fossils transport Ruby and Granny Flo herself back to 1938 for a seaside extravaganza with dance, original songs, slapstick and candy floss! Winner of Best Show for Families Award, Buxton Festival Fringe 2010.

• Family: £18; Adults £6 (£5) suitable for children over 3; The Village Hall, Main Street, Lower Benefield, PE8 5AF. Tickets available from 01832 205314 or 01832 205289.

See www.littlepixieproductions.co.uk or www.northantstouringarts.co.uk.

Sunday 10 April OPEN GARDEN: Quiet Garden Spring Open Afternoon 1.30 -5pm Enjoy an evolving spring garden, an oasis of calm near Peterborough city centre. Tea and cakes served.

• Free entry. Quaker Meeting House, nr. Crescent Bridge, Thorpe Rd, Peterborough. Wheelchair access.

3

7:30pm GIG: Austin ‘Walkin’ Cane An evening of authentic Delta Blues, slide guitar and soulful vocals with award-winning blues singer, songwriter and guitarist - flying in especially from New Orleans.

• Tickets: £15/£16 at www.shakedownblues.co.uk or £17 on door. The Village Hall, Castor, Peterborough PE5 7AX

FRIDAY SATURDAY SUNDAY

4

MONDAY

5

TUESDAY

6

WEDNESDAY

7

THURSDAY

8

FRIDAY

9

SATURDAY

10

SUNDAY

11

MONDAY

12

TUESDAY

13

WEDNESDAY

14

THURSDAY

15

FRIDAY

16

SATURDAY

17

SUNDAY

18

MONDAY

19

TUESDAY

20

WEDNESDAY

21

Thursday 21 April

April

THURSDAY

22

FRIDAY

23

SATURDAY

24

SUNDAY

25

MONDAY

26

TUESDAY

27

WEDNESDAY

28

THURSDAY

29

FRIDAY

30

SATURDAY

 For more information visit ‘diary dates’ at www.bestlocalliving.co.uk 37 DIARY DATES_DC.indd 1

EVENT: Spencer’s Fire and Ice Ball 7.30pm/9pm Lisa Schwarz and Leah Marrazzo have organised and designed this fabulous evening with Lemar and Maurice from the Drifters performing to raise funds for Phoenix School for profoundly disabled children, the charity Corpal and Cherry Lodge Respite Centre.

• Tickets: £65.00 include cocktail fountain reception, 3-course meal, wine on tables, chocolate fountain, auction, casino, table magician and belly dancers, or £30 for entertainment only from 9pm from Spencer’s Hair Salon, 969 Lincoln Road, Peterborough, PE4 6AF on 01733 324568.

Saturday 2 April GIG: Motor City Vipers This eight piece band have been selling out local venues recently. Catch them, and guest DJ at this soul night, in aid of Cancer Research and the Weald Hospice.

• Tickets £8 from j.parsons@talktalk.net or call 07910 563626. Gig takes place at The Radius (above The Solstice), Northminster St, Peterborough PE1 1YN

Saturday 9 April EVENT: Merge Contemporary Craft Fairs 9am – 5pm Beautiful contemporary ceramics, glass, stone carving and jewellery – direct from the makers.

• Talbot Hotel, New Street, Oundle, Northants, PE8 4EA. Contact Zoe Garner Glass on info@zoegarnerglass.com or 07860 783 635. www.zoegarnerglass.com

Sunday 17 April



Sunday 3 April

Saturday 2 April



EVENT: Eco-Home Guided Tour Find out more about rainwater harvesting, solar hot water, wind turbines and photo voltaics touring Stella Richardson’s eco-home near Wisbech as part of the Sustainable Energy Academy’s “Green Home Superhome” scheme.

• For more info, or to book a free tour, contact 01945 780761 or ingleside@ingleside2.com

Diary dates



Friday 1 Sunday 3 April

WALK: Nature Explorers: Guided walk, Northamptonshire 2:00 pm - 3:30 pm Join the guides on a walk through woods full of birdsong and drumming woodpeckers and the red kites starting to build nests … and look out for bluebells; one of many nature events at Top Lodge throughout the month.

• £4 per adult, £2 per child, RSPB members: half price. RSPB Centre Top Lodge, Fineshade Woods near Corby, NN17 3BB. Contact: 01780 444691 or toplodge@rspb.org.uk.

Tuesday 12 - Sunday 17 April 2011 2.30/5.30/7.30/8pm MUSICAL: Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat This brilliant production of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s hit show featuring Keith Jack, the popular runner-up in the BBC series Any Dream Will Do, who’s been playing to sensational reviews and is now in Peterborough.

• Tickets: £12 - £25. The Broadway Theatre, 46 The Broadway, Peterborough, PE1 1RT. Box Office: 0844 850 0 850 or book online: www.thebroadwaytheatre.co.uk.

NENE VALLEY LIVING April 2011

37

15/3/11 15:48:15

GCSE and A Level Revision Courses in the Easter Holidays.

TUTORIN S U C A G AB ACADEMY

Kick start th e revision process!

8+ hours of tuition per subject spread over 5 days.

We will explain difficult concepts, practice answering questions and help students to gain confidence before the exam season starts.

Regular Weekly Lessons Primary

Literacy, numeracy, science, and reasoning

Secondary Maths, English, Science, (Chemistry, Physics, Biology) * * * *

National curriculum based After school, weekend & holiday lessons Effective learning strategies Sensitive support

deser ves a little extra help !

Ever yone 2 Culley Court, Orton Southgate, PE2 6WA

Our tuition centre will have courses in: Maths Chemistry Additional Science Physics Biology English

Primary Classes to raise confidence

Raise your S.A.T. level. Come for a week (or two).

Improve your: tables reading writing fractions decimals spelling comprehension

Secondary School Entrance Examination Preparation Raise your child’s le achievemen vel of t!

You can have: Weekly term time lessons, Weekly or twice weekly holiday lessons Intensive weeks of tuition during the Summer.

and much, much more.

Summer KS2: year 3, 4, 5 & 6

01733 394500

Our tuition centre has courses in: Math, English, Verbal reasoning, non verbal reasoning and science.

We are experienced in preparing students for: 11+, local state secondary schools, local independent schools and common entrance examinations.

Visit our centre to see how we can help.

38

• NVL April ADS.indd 38

17/3/11 10:53:27

DIRECTORY

now available in Oundle

For more information, call our main clinic in Peterborough on

01733 565911 or visit www.prestonsphysio.com

COMPUTER SERVICES

“Caring for the people of Peterborough and beyond for over 40 years”

SAFE LOCAL TRADES

rides

20 best

20 Best Local Bike Rides In association with Rutland Cycling

BIKE

Physiotherapy Appointments

Best Local Walks and Best Local Bike Rides are stunningly produced A5 guidebooks describing 20 spectacular walks or bike rides in detail with maps, pictures and directions. They also describe points of interest on each route and the best places to find refreshments. local

Spectacular rides around cycle Stamford, Rutla nd, Harborough and the Nene Valley

£3.50

0

PHYSIOTHERAPY

ISSN 175 7-747

CLEANING

Living

20 spectacular bike rides around Stamford, Rutland, Harborough and the Nene Valley

walks 20 Best Local Walks 20 best local

In association with Barnack Country Clothes

around Spectacular walks, Harborough Stamford, Rutland and the Nene Valley

470 ISSN 1757-7

£3.50

Living

20 spectacular walks around Stamford, Rutland, Harborough and the Nene Valley.

Please enclose a cheque for £3.50 per booklet, made payable to Local Living, and return the completed coupon below to: PO Box 208, Stamford, PE9 9FY.

Or online at: www.bestlocalliving.co.uk Select which title you wish and print in capitals please

DRIVEWAYS Driveway, Patio Cleaning and Sealing We are an independent company specialising in restoring hard landscaped driveways and patio areas in domestic and commercial properties.

Call us now for a free quotation O1733 246357 / 07415 368898

GARDENING

landscape property services The Complete Landscape Ser vice To arrange a fixed price, on-site sur vey and quotation please call on:

• Garden Renovations and Makeovers • Patio’s • Drives • Turfing

Best Local Bike Rides TUITION

LANGUAGE LESSONS

Best Local Walks

Name: -------------------------------------------------Address: -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Postcode: -----------------

· French, Spanish, Italian, German · Face-to-face or by Phone/Skype · Intensive GCSE & A-Level Revision · Public classes in Oundle, Hampton, Orton & Deeping Fun, motivating, easy methods that get you results!

Contact Natasha Morgan

07812 342598 or 0800 298 5953 Testimonials and offers at www.natasha-morgan.co.uk natasha@morganlanguages.co.uk

Visit the newly refurbished Queens Head Inn & experience our fantastic seasonal menus and hospitality at its finest.

Restaurant Critic?

Open daily for lunch and dinner – reservations advisable.

• Fencing and Gates

54 Station Rd, Nassington, PE8 6QB Reservations: 01780 784 006 www.queensheadnassington.co.uk info@queensheadnassington.co.uk

• Full Garden Schemes

t: 01733 569969 M: 07809 690565 HEALTH

Curative Hypnotherapy Become the person you really want to be Stop Smoking – in just one hour Fears/Phobias – stop the irrational thoughts Stress Management – take back control Hypnotic Gastric Band – worth £150 free Hypno-Slimming Programme – the amazingnew easy way to lose weight Sport Hypnosis – improve performance Free Initial Consultation

Hypnotherapy Clinic - 26 Priestgate, Peterborough City Centre Tel: 01733 768839 www.curativehypnotherapy.com

Visit

www.

bestlocalliving .co.uk

and contribute your own review

• NVL April Directory.indd 47

Special Offer for April 25% off the A la Carte menu .

Bring this advert with you to get 25% off our a la carte menu on any Monday or Tuesday this April.

17/3/11 17:12:16

M A K E

I T

A

L O N G

WEEKEND

Shop for longer this Easter.

Good Friday: 9am – 5.30pm*

Easter Sunday: Closed

Easter Saturday: 9am – 6pm*

Easter Monday: 10am – 5.30pm*

Plan your visit at

queensgate-shopping.co.uk *Some stores may vary their opening hours.

• NVL April ADS.indd 40

17/3/11 10:53:37