Market Harborough Living Magazine July 2017

MARKET

Covering Market Harborough, surrounding villages & Rutland

HARBOROUGH LIVING

Summer fun!

JULY 2017 £1.50

The ultimate guide to enjoying the school holidays

GET IN TOUCH: marketharboroughliving.co.uk

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RUT LAND & M AR K E T H A R BO R O U G H LIV ING

July Contents www.rutlandliving.co.uk www.marketharboroughliving.co.uk

Welcome to the July issue of Rutland & Market Harborough Living magazine

W

ITH summer now in full swing, we turn our attention to the school holidays and keeping the kids entertained for weeks on end. The good news is that there’s such a huge array of things to do in our area, you need not venture far. Turn to page 10 for our selection of school holiday activities to enjoy over the summer, as well as our Rutland Water special feature on page 16… I’m pretty certain you could spend an entire week there, with all the great activities available.

Having the kids around doesn’t mean that pub visits are off the cards, as our guest contributor Simon Gamble, author of ‘Pint-sized Trips’ demonstrates on page 26, revealing his and his daughter Dixie’s favourite child-friendly pubs in the area.

So enjoy the sunshine while it lasts and make the most of everything we have on our doorstep during the summer holidays – it’s going to be a corker!

I hope you enjoy this month’s issue,

Rachael @RutlandLiving @rutlandlivingmag INCORPORATING

Village Lifestyle

4 Updates

News & Views

6 Local People

Young Leicestershire

8 Rutland Hero

Leicestershire Search & Rescue

10 Out & About School’s Out

15 Local People Fostering

16 Out & About Rutland Water

20 Fashion Summer style

23 Out & About Armourgeddon

25 Food & Drink

The Olive Branch Recipe

26 Food & Drink Pint-sized Trips

29 Food & Drink Food News

30 Food & Drink The Great Food Club

34 Home & Garden Outdoor Living

39 Harborough Happenings News & Views

40 Home & Garden Through the keyhole

44 Health & Beauty Anti-aging eye care

49 Updates News & Views

54 Out & About Burghley House

56 Out & About What’s On

58 Updates News & Views

62 Local History Who was Lady Cha?

Editor Rachael Bull 07734 218155 rachaelbull@bestlocalliving.co.uk Advertisement Manager, Rutland Tracy Watkinson 01572 813187 rutlandliving@btinternet.com Advertisement Manager, Market Harborough Sosennah Every 07884 124316 sos.every@gmail.com Advertising Copy & Subscriptions Rachel Beecroft 01780 765320 rachel@locallivingdesign.co.uk Head of Design Steven Handley steve@locallivingdesign.co.uk Designers Sarah Compton inkdesign@virginmedia.com Calum Handley Publisher Nicholas Rudd-Jones 01780 765571 nicholas@bestlocalliving.co.uk Printed by Warners of Bourne RL cover: AquaPark Rutland MHL cover: © David Corfield, www.davidcorfield.com

Subscribe to Rutland & Market Harborough Living Subscriptions – annual rate £25 (UK only).

Please write to: Publisher, Local Living, PO Box 208, Stamford, PE9 9FY enclosing cheque made payable to Local Living Ltd. Or subscribe online at www.bestlocalliving.co.uk

RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING JULY 2017

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UPDATES News & Views

Kavanagh’s Tea Room opens in Oakham

A

NEW tea room has opened in Oakham to rave reviews.

Kavanagh’s Tea Room opened in May and is already receiving plaudits for its delicious breakfasts – their scrambled eggs with chilli, homemade granola with coconut yoghurt and berries and avocado and tomatoes on brioche are already hits – alongside their already-famous afternoon tea and cakes, homemade by owner Claire Kavanagh.

Alongside the delicious food and beverages, Claire and her team’s professional and welcoming hospitality and the general atmosphere have also built up a loyal following despite having been open for only a short time. A vintage tea room with style, the décor is gorgeous and a glass of fizz with your afternoon tea will go down a treat.

A wonderful idea for a birthday party – or an everyday visit! Children and dogs are welcome, the kids will really enjoy the milkshakes and cakes on offer.

Sure to be a resounding success, Kavanagh’s is well worth a visit.

• Kavanagh’s Tea Room, 2 Church Street, Oakham. 07411 540194.

Time to start planning your 2018 wedding breakfast

I

F you’re planning your wedding for next year, look no further than Rutland Gourmet for all your catering needs.

Established for over 15 years, Rutland Gourmet have gained a tremendous reputation for producing delicious fare for all manner of occasions, bringing events to life with taste Sarah Rivett sensations and artistic flare.

Although specialising in wedding catering and corporate event catering, Rutland Gourmet are equally happy providing delicious food in the comfort of your own home or even a picnic for a summer’s day.

Their wedding fare has garnered quite the reputation, with newlyweds saying that

so many of the guests commented on how fabulous the food was under the expertise of Rutland Gourmet. As Sarah Rivett, founder and owner of Rutland Gourmet and expert in fine dining explains, “Whether you’d prefer canapes and a sitdown menu, a hot or cold forked buffet, a hog roast, a barbeque or an afternoon tea, we’ll cater for your every whim.”

Alongside exquisite food and drink, the company can also provide refrigerated trailers, generators, crockery and cutlery, glassware and table linen and outside bar marquees. A one-stop shop for all your wedding catering

Kavanagh’s Tea Room. Photo: Elli Dean

needs, with exceptional quality as standard.

Rutland Gourmet also cater for christenings, dinner parties, shooting parties and children’s parties all over the Midlands. Sarah is now in charge of the catering at Rockingham Castle, providing delicious fare for all their weddings and events as well as running the Rockingham Castle tea rooms, which offer a full menu including afternoon tea.

• Contact Sarah on 01572 747909 or 07970 576882 or visit www. rutlandgourmet.co.uk for more information.

Discover Rutland membership opportunity

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NTHUSIASTIC to grow Rutland as a tourism destination, Discover Rutland is encouraging local businesses to join as members and contribute to, and be a partner in, the biggest tourism marketing campaign for the smallest county and surrounding area.

Discover Rutland was set up to replace the old ‘Rutland Tourism’. Run by a committee of local business owners and representatives, its purpose is to promote Rutland as a great tourism destination by supporting and working with local businesses.

They have recently overseen the development of the new Discover Rutland website and a bi-annual printed visitor guide for Rutland. It provides marketing and PR

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RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING JULY 2017

opportunities for local businesses, as well as a range of special member benefits, specifically negotiated to provide member businesses with a cost-effective way to promote their product.

They manage the fully interactive website, various social media channels and a host of events under the Discover Rutland flag.

With membership available from £60, it is a

great opportunity to promote your business to a growing database of over 19,000 visitors and help grow Rutland as a tourism destination.

• If you are interested in becoming a member or have any questions please call Tracy on 01780 432930 or email tracy@nimblemedia.co.uk.

REBECCA LARDNER FOCUS EVENT

Trent Galleries are delighted to be holding a focus event, showcasing a fabulous collection of editions, and originals exclusive to the event. Rebecca’s quirky, uplifting take on the British Coastline are a treat to the eyes! Rebecca’s work is likened to J.S Lowry, and she is now one of the UK’s most successful sought after artists.

We are now taking orders on her latest collection ‘Summer by the Seaside’. All artwork purchased before 1 July will qualify for a personal dedication by Rebecca Lardner herself. Contact the Gallery for more details 01572 722790.

Come along to this charming event!

TRENT GALLERIES, OAKHAM 8 - 15 JULY

11 Mill Street, Oakham LE15 6EA 01572 722790 oakham@trentgalleries.co.uk

www.trentgalleries.co.uk

Fords Of Oakham

Rutland’s premier department store

Fun in

the sun

Toys & Games now in store 8 Church Street, Oakham, Rutland, LE15 6AA Tel: 01572 722654 www.fordsofoakham.co.uk Follow us on Facebook and Instagram @Fordsofoakham 5

LOCA L P EOP L E

Young Leicestershire –

putting young people first With nearly 40 youth groups as members, Young Leicestershire is the largest youth work organisation in the county. Reliant on the generosity of others to continue, Alison Jolley tells Amander Meade about the charity’s work.

What are the aims of the charity?

Young Leicestershire is the biggest provider of open-access clubs for young people in Leicester and Leicestershire with over 16,000 young people now belonging to our network of 40 affiliated groups. We are passionate about providing young people with the widest possible range of positive activities – which we achieve through leading and supporting voluntarysector youth work.

How do organisations benefit?

Affiliation has many benefits; if you run or are thinking of starting up a club for young people in the city or county, there are instant benefits to joining forces with Young Leicestershire. In partnership with NCVO and UK Youth and Ambition, we support our network of groups by raising funds through Leicester City Council, Leicestershire County Council and other sources. We also enable accreditation for young people and can help you work towards a First Step quality mark for your club. We have experience in organising management committees and are happy to provide templates for appropriate

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policies and procedures – essentially helping with the daunting administrative side to starting a club.

One of the greatest benefits reported by our members is the sense of community offered by becoming part of a county- and city-wide network – no longer feeling isolated, and having a friendly, expert team to turn to for help and advice.

What part do your volunteers play?

Young Leicestershire benefits from a vast group of volunteers who all support our members in a variety of ways. From being on a committee to supporting youth work sessions, we value the many hours of support provided. Over the last two years we have delivered accredited training, sports programmes and worked tirelessly to give young people a voice with our recent democracy project.

How do you support young carers?

We work closely with young carers to provide much-needed respite from their daily caring responsibilities. These young people need space to have some fun and gain peer support from

those who understand their situation. Also, we support young people with additional needs to access youth services and take part in sports, arts and the many other activities we provide.

From Girl Guides to local parish youth clubs, we are confident that young people will have fun, stay safe and be healthy in one of our many clubs and groups. Everything we do is dedicated to supporting young people to achieve their full potential.

Who can help by getting involved?

There are lots of ways to help. Individuals can volunteer their time at a local club or start their own. Businesses can discover the lasting reciprocal benefits when their staff volunteer to work as mentors at a young people’s club, developing their own skills and active citizenship. Of course, as a charity, Young Leicestershire is reliant on donations to keep running so any amount donated however large or small is very much appreciated.

• Find out more about how you can get involved with the work of Young Leicestershire at www.youngleicestershire.co.uk

L i ve B e a u t i f u l l y

Our address is: 123, St Mary’s Road, Market Harborough, Leics, LE16 7DT TEL: 01858 433334 EMAIL: SALES@BROOKSIDECARPETS.CO.UK WWW.BROOKSIDECARPETS.CO.UK

www.elizabethstanhope.co.uk showroom@elizabethstanhope.co.uk 27 Mill St, Oakham, Rutland, LE15 6EA 01572 722 345

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PEOPLE

Leicestershire Search and Rescue

RUTLAND

HERO

When you think of Search and Rescue teams, images of highland mountains or bleak moorland landscapes come to mind. Amander Meade spoke to Debi Wright, Unit Secretary of Leicestershire Search and Rescue to find out more about the redoubtable teams of volunteers operating much closer to home.

“We are very much in need of fundraising volunteers this year” What is the primary function of the Unit?

Leicestershire Search and Rescue (LeicSAR) is a lowland search and rescue unit operating throughout Leicestershire and Rutland. We are a non-profit organisation, (Registered Charity 1150100) and consist entirely of volunteers. Our primary role is to assist the police in the search for vulnerable missing persons in urban, rural and lowland areas. LeicSAR has been called out 52 times so far this year to help search for missing persons, which equates to 3,000 search hours. We currently have 42 members ranging in age from 18 to 75 years, all willing to be called out at short notice by the police, 24 hours a day, and 365 days a year, regardless of weather conditions or temperature We also have a bike team, made possible by the generous donation of bikes from Go Outdoors Loughborough as well as four trainee Search Dogs. In addition to our search and rescue service, we provide marshals and first aid cover at many private and community events. We are gaining a good reputation for the quality of the service we provide and many organisations return to us year after year.

What kind of training is involved?

All unit members are trained to nationally recognised standards in areas such as search techniques, first aid, navigation and communications. Members commit to two evenings a month for training, plus a daylong training exercise every three months, to maintain their skills. All our operational

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fitness test – we have to walk 5 miles in 2 hours carrying our full search kit. We are on call 365 days a year but members take themselves ‘off call’ if they are on holiday or unwell for example.

What kind of skills are you currently recruiting for?

Numbers of operational volunteers are sufficient at the moment but their efforts are only as good as the support they receive from non-operational members. We are very much in need of fundraising volunteers this year and would welcome lots of help there.

members have to pass an enhanced DBS check before they can join. They then go through an intense training programme, culminating in a weekend residential course where they are assessed on all the basic skills required to become a Search Technician.

Most of our members are ‘outdoor types’ and a large number are either employed by, or recently retired from the emergency services or the armed forces. Consequently we have a large number with advanced medical skills, for example.

How fit do members need to be?

All our members are required to pass an annual

What kind of fundraising is required and how can readers get involved?

LeicSAR receives no statutory funding and relies solely on donations and sponsorship from the local community and businesses, as well as our own fundraising activities to remain operational. We have two 4x4 emergency vehicles, and our Incident Command Unit (ICU) which is an ex-prison van to maintain, as well as all the technology and medical equipment we need to carry. We are extremely grateful for any fundraising activity – especially when we are made ‘Charity of the Year’ by local firms and businesses and it is only as a result of this kind of fundraising that we can remain operational.

• If you would like to find out more about Leicestershire Search & Rescue or fundraise on their behalf, visit www.leicestershire-sar.org.uk.

Enjoy your night life with beds, mattresses, headboards and more, chosen and designed with you in mind.

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K ID S

School’s out for summer!

Here’s our lowdown of all the great days out that you and your kids can enjoy locally this summer. Words: Katie Mitchell Uppingham Summer School

EXPLORE In July and August Wistow Maze is a giant eight-acre maize maze with a fun Quiz Trail hidden amongst three miles of pathways, with high-level bridges and towers giving fabulous panoramic views. The maze includes an activity fun-yard with mini mazes and games for all the family, including hoopla, beanbag throwing, a space hopper track and football shooting game. www.wistow.com Pack up a picnic and head to Foxton Locks and watch the boats traverse the locks. www.foxtonlocks.org.uk GET CREATIVE At The Genesis Theatre School summer school, kids aged 5 to 18 years get to work with professionals in drama, singing, dance and physical theatre to create an original musical written specifically for them and perform it to a full audience. Classes run in Oakham, Kettering and Corby. www.genesis-theatre.co.uk Lemon Jelly’s fun-packed Summer Workshop allows children to work on filming projects, musical theatre, street dance, prop making and much more. Visit www.lemonjellyarts.co.uk The Paint Pottle in Market Harborough promises a fun time painting pottery. www.thepaintpottle.co.uk An Aiming High summer art session for children with a disability takes place at Oakham CoE Primary School on 25 July.

Contact aiminghigh@rutland.gov.uk

SUMMER SCHOOL Uppingham Summer School has a fantastic variety of fun courses on offer this summer, including music, drama, sport, baking, art and technology, all put together by Uppingham School. There are both residential and day courses designed to appeal to different age groups, including Sensational Science, Junior Code Academy and Solo Singing. Visit www.uppinghamsummerschool.co.uk to find out more.

Churchill Summer Camps offer Ofstedregistered multi-activity camps for children aged between 4 and 14 during the holiday periods. Not just a sports camp, they offer an extensive range of over 30 activities to suit all ages and interests in Stamford, Oakham and Peterborough throughout July and August. www.churchillsummercamps.co.uk.

The Catmose Sports Wild Camp Play Scheme provides 5- to 12-year-olds with days filled with swimming, tennis, football, basketball, arts and crafts and much more. Call 01572 490030 for more information.

Wistow Maze

Uppingham Summer School

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Foxton Locks

Kelmarsh Hall and Gardens

Belton House in Grantham promises lots of fun including open-air theatre and cinema to celebrate the National Day of Play on 2 August. www.nationaltrust.org.uk Movie lovers will enjoy the Burghley House Summer Film Festival with a daytime and evening schedule that includes The Jungle Book, Moana and Rogue One: A Star Wars Story. www.burghley.co.uk/film-festival2017 FRUIT PICKING Many of our local farms grown an abundance of delicious fruit through the summer months including strawberries, raspberries, gooseberries and blackcurrants. Wymeswold Fruit Farm makes a great day out. www.wymeswoldfruitfarm.co.uk DOWN ON THE FARM Mini Meadows Farm in the village of Welford, Northants, is a lovely little children’s farm boasting a large array of cute, not so cute, small and not so small farm animals. www.minimeadowsfarm.com Sacrewell is a multi-award winning heritage farm attraction and 18th century watermill and has a wealth of activities on offer, including a playbarn and wildlife trail. On Saturday 29 July the Immersion Theatre is returning for an

evening of open-air theatre with the Wind in the Willows. www.sacrewell.co.uk At West Lodge Farm Park, children of all ages can meet and learn about a range of rare breeds, handle the rabbits and guinea pigs in Cuddle Corner and laugh at the antics of the pygmy goats on Goat Mountain. This summer it opens its new indoor play area with rope bridges, slides, climbing walls and tunnels for little ones to immerse themselves in, alongside a designated area for younger children. www.westlodgeruralcentre.co.uk DAYS OUT Theme park fans will love Twin Lakes in Melton Mowbray whose summer programme includes Mad Science and Meet Rex the T-Rex. Visit www.twinlakespark.co.uk

The beautiful Kelmarsh Hall and Gardens has The Great British Food Festival taking place on 8-9 July with over 70 artisan stalls, kids cookery and circus workshops. www.kelmarsh.com With six interactive galleries, the UK’s largest planetarium, unique 3D Simulator Experience and the iconic 42m high Rocket Tower, the award-winning National Space Centre in Leicester is an out-of-this-world experience. www.spacecentre.co.uk SPORTS SKILLS Tom Flowers Cricket Academy summer camp courses include batting, bowling and fielding drills and skills. Run throughout July and August, venues include Melton Mowbray, Hallaton, The Langtons, Market Harborough and Egerton Park CC. www.tomflowerscricketcoaching.com.

Somerby Equestrian Centre offers a summer programme for 8-13 year olds including Pony Days, which are a mix of riding and stable management. www.somerbyequestriancentre.co.uk.

Dodgeball fun is available at Whissendine Primary School with Eshelby Leisure in July and August. www.eshelbyleisure.com

RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING JULY 2017

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• Purpose built pre-school with garden and outside teaching area • 3 Outside Play areas • Separate baby unit • Home-cooked meals • High quality childcare from specialist staff

Day Nursery and Pre-School Open 7.30am to 6pm Monday to Friday Overton House, 42 Cold Overton Rd, Oakham, Rutland, LE15 6NT

01572 723 810 www.scallywagsoakham.co.uk

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Having to turn the TV up?

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Call us for: • Free expert hearing advice • Free lifestyle hearing assessments • Free trials of the latest digital hearing aid technology • Home visits available

Call us today for your FREE hearing assessment

01572 759555 Oakham Hearing Centre, 17b Gaol Street, Oakham, Rutland LE15 6AQ

With our help your hearing can only get better.

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FAMIL I ES

Rutland Foster Care Could you make an extraordinary difference by offering foster care to a child during difficult times?

Amander Meade speaks to the Rutland Foster Care team to find out more.

What exactly is foster caring?

Foster care is a way of providing a family life for children who cannot live at home. This may be a temporary situation or a longer term scenario. Each child’s situation is different but fostering may come about through bereavement, family breakdown or any other circumstances that mean parents are unable to care for their child safely.

In some situations there is little or no chance the child will be able to return to the family home, in which case a permanent solution will be sought – usually through adoption. In other cases, children only need a temporary home until their family situation is resolved; our goal is always to reunify children with birth parents wherever possible as we know this is the best outcome for children.

Are there different types of fostering?

Yes – several. We have foster carers who offer short- and long-term care, emergency care, and special care for children with disabilities, sibling care and respite care. There is remand care for young offenders and parent-and-child care, which usually involves young people who have become parents themselves. Each type of care involves a different set of skills but all are based around the same core qualities. We are also looking for people who can offer safe and secure temporary accommodation to young people preparing them to live independently.

What kind of qualities does a foster carer possess?

We are seeking carers with commitment,

energy, determination and who are prepared to cope with anything. A good sense of humour always helps. Carers need to enjoy spending time with children and young people and have plenty of time to commit, although you can work and be a foster carer at the same time.

Carers also need to be willing to work with the families of the children they look after. Potential foster carers need to be prepared to learn new skills and work alongside fellow professionals.

Who can apply to be considered for foster caring?

Anyone over the age of 21 can apply to be a foster carer. Carers can be single or in a couple including same-sex relationships.

You can have children of your own or you can have experience with children at work or in the family. We do not discriminate against age, ethnicity, culture, disability or background and we will consider all applicants.

We provide practical, emotional and financial support and offer training to help you develop your skills.

You will receive support from our Rutland

fostering team and you can access advice from other carers in Rutland as well as continued development and learning.

What is the process involved?

After your initial enquiry, you will receive a home visit by a member of our team as well as an invitation to attend preparation training. At this point you will complete a formal application and give us consent to conduct background checks and obtain references. The final stages are assessment for fostering and then formal approval by a Fostering Panel. It is a rigorous process and rightly so, but our carers report how much they enjoy the challenge of getting to know the children in their care and spending time with them. The right individuals really can make a difference to children’s lives and the rewards are enormous.

• To find out more about fostering in Rutland, visit www.rutland.gov.uk/fostering call the Fostering Team for an informal chat on 01572 720 942 or email fostering@rutland.gov.uk.

RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING JULY 2017

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OUT & AB O UT

Summer fun at Rutland Water Our top tips for fabulous fun at Rutland Water during the school holidays

Rutland Watersports Rutland Sailing School’s junior sailing courses take kids step-by-step through the basic skills and techniques needed to get them sailing independently. As well as taster sessions that offer a basic introduction, they run four- or fiveday courses over the holidays, at the end of which they’ll get a recognised RYA certification.

Find out more at www.rutlandsailingschool. co.uk or call 01780 721999.

Rutland Cycling

Junior instruction and courses are also available in windsurfing, canoeing, kayaking and power boating.

Bull Brigg Lane, Whitwell, LE15 8BL 01780 460154 www.anglianwater.co.uk

Cycling is a great way to spend a family day out, enjoying traffic-free cycle routes, taking in the stunning scenery and stopping for a picnic en-route. Rutland Cycling offers the widest choice of hire bikes in Europe: adult mountain and hybrid bikes, electric bikes, children’s bikes, tag-a-longs, buggies and extras, including helmets, child seats and comfy saddle covers. Pick up their Family Trail route map (8 miles) and the children’s activity sheet to keep them entertained as they cycle.

Rutland Cycling, Whitwell Leisure Park, Whitwell, LE15 8BL 01780 460705 www.rutlandcycling.com

Rockblok Summer Adventure Club If you’re juggling work with summer fun, looking for one day or need to book consecutive days for your child, the Rockblok team offer low-cost activity days for children from age 8+.

Rockblok instructors will guide adventurers in hands-on outdoor activities including awareness games and challenges, natural crafts, shelter building, fire making, abseiling, high ropes, storytelling and more, as well as fostering a vision of community, fun and friendship.

Running from Monday to Friday from 24 July to 18 August, 8.30am to 4.30pm (pick up 5pm), Rokblok Summer Adventure Club costs £30 per day, with discounts available for early booking or booking three days or more.

Rockblok, Whitwell Leisure Park, Bull Brigg Lane, Whitwell, LE15 8BL 01780 460060 www.rockblok.com.

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The Beach!

No need to head to the coast with the beach at Rutland Water Park reopening on Saturday 1 July. Enjoy building sandcastles as well as paddling and swimming in designated areas. After all, it’s not a British summer without sandy sandwiches…

Rutland Water Park, Sykes Lane, Empingham, LE15 8QL www.anglianwater.co.uk

AquaPark Rutland

The UK’s biggest aquaglide aqua park and measuring over 100m by 80m, this floating inflatable aqua park has climbing walls, trampolines, balance bars, rockers, rollers, the UK’s biggest slides and much more. Open to children aged 8+ and over 1.3 metres tall, tickets are £20 each for 50 minutes, including a wetsuit.

Bull Brig Lane, Whitwell, LE15 8BL 01780 693201 www.aquaparkrutland.co.uk

Photo by: Leicestershire and Rutland Wildlife Trust

Birdwatching at Egleton

The Rutland Belle All aboard the Rutland Belle passenger cruiser, where the whole family can enjoy fabulous views of the lake, on the lake. Setting sail from Whitwell Harbour daily, keep your peepers peeled for the famous ospreys while cruising across the water.

Whitwell car park, Bull Brigg Lane, LE15 8BL 01572 787630 www.anglianwater.co.uk

Qualified teacher/naturalists and reserve wardens host environmental activities for kids aged between 7 and 11, giving them the chance to explore the nature reserve, go pond dipping, bug hunting, learn about Rutland Water’s famous ospreys and enjoy craft activities.

They’re running special ‘nature detective’ days over the summer where kids can learn all about the native wildlife, with themes such as Wondrous Water, Brilliant Bugs and Bird Safari.

Anglian Water Birdwatching Centre, Egleton, LE15 8BT. 01572 770651 www.anglianwater.co.uk

Bugtopia the Zoo This award-winning family-owned zoo offers an interactive experience to get kids interested in, you guessed it, bugs! Affordable fun for the family, there are over 60 different species of animals from worms and ants to scorpions, meerkets, large hairy armadillo and a frilled dragon.

Sykes Lane, Empingham, LE15 8QL. 01780 460518 www.bugtopia.co.uk

Grub’s up!

THE HARBOUR BAR Enjoy gorgeous views from this waterside spot at Whitwell Creek next to the Rutland Belle, along with a varied menu ranging from cooked breakasts, light bites to a full evening meal plus fully licensed bar.

Bull Brigg Lane, Whitwell Harbour, LE15 8BL 01780 461288 www.harbourcafe.co.uk L’OLIVETO CAFÉ, BAR AND RESTAURANT Authentic Italian and Mediterranean cuisine with spectacular waterside views at Normanton. Child-friendly and bursting with Italian dishes including pasta, pizza and their famous antipasti dishes. Open in summer from 7.30am to 11pm, with free parking after 6pm.

Normanton Road, South Shore, LE15 8HV 01780 721599 www.olivetorestaurant.com THE FOUR FOXES One-stop-shop kiosks for ice cream, bacon rolls, hot and cold snacks and drinks at Whitwell, Sykes Lane, Barnsdale and Normanton car parks.

RUTLAND WATER GOLF COURSE The Courtyard and Clubhouse offer delicious food to visitors as well as members, seven days a week. With stunning views over the golf course and Rutland Water, the golf course offers breakfasts, light lunches including freshly made salads and soups, sandwiches, toasties and paninis, scones and cakes and Sunday roasts, all cooked with local produce.

Lodge Farm, LE15 8HB 01572 737525 www.rutlandwatergolfcourse.co.uk THE HORSE & JOCKEY An award-winning free house on the south shore of Rutland Water, The Horse & Jockey offers a warm welcome, real ales and a relaxed dining experience. The lovely sunny patio area is perfect for cycling and walking stop-offs when the weather behaves itself.

St Mary’s Road, Manton, LE15 8SU 01572 737335 www.horseandjockeyrutland.co.uk RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING JULY 2017

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FASHIO N

High Summer High Fashion!

Fabulous pieces from our local boutiques PHOTOGRAPHY: ELLI DEAN FASHION: NIKKI BEATTY

Luisa Cerano white trousers, £229, Velvet T-shirt, £120, Velvet stripe jacket, £195, Castaner canvas wedges, £75 all from Cavells

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Rabens Saloner green trousers, £174, Vanilla, White linen top, £70, Priddy Essentials, Castaner canvas wedges, £75, Cavells

Linen dress, £140, Priddy Essentials Blue and white patterned dress, £49.95, Duo

Hartford blue dress, £125, Vanilla

BIG THANKS TO: Priddy Essentials - this store is beautifully arranged with amazing perfumes and lotions all handmade in-house, providing an ideal location for our shoot this month.

Natalie our gorgeous model and Elli Dean for the fantastic photography, www.ellidean.co.uk STOCKISTS: Priddy Essentials, 01572 821890, www.priddyessentials.com Vanilla, Oakham, 01572 757577, www.vanillaboutique.co.uk Duo, Oakham, 01572 2722116 www.duoboutique.co.uk Cavells, Oakham, 01572 770372 www.cavells.co.uk

For more fashion inspo go to fashion editor Nikki Beatty’s Instagram @ Styleinthestix RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING JULY 2017

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1981 - 36 Years

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• 25 large room settings in our showroom

NEFF SALE Some available from stock 63 appliances on show

• Contemporary, modern, traditional & handmade bespoke kitchens • Affordable, quality kitchens and the latest designs on display The best quality, best value & best service from a company fitting kitchens since 1981

Your local appointed Sheraton dealer.

T H E A R E A’ S L A R G E S T I N D E P E N D E N T K I T C H E N S H O W R O O M The Maltings, Barnack Road, Stamford, PE9 2NA T: 01780 756514 or 755855 E: sales@qksstamford.co.uk www.qksstamford.co.uk

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K ID S

Armourgeddon

An experience of a lifetime “Drive a TANK? Target practice? Me? Well that’s never going to happen!” Oh, yes it did! Read about Kirstie Mitchell’s fun and exhilarating afternoon at Armourgeddon in Leicestershire.

Big G confidently drove us around the track whilst we enjoyed the glorious Leicestershire countryside.

After a lap of the track, we parked up at the target practice position which was a bull’s eye target board and two tanks in the middle of the track. All of us had a go to charge, load, aim and fire the 40mm air cannon fitted to the turret of the tank from battle position. Fortunately, saving any embarrassment, we all achieved two out of three hits - phew!

Now it was our turn to drive. Once the controls had been mastered, it’s a lap with the driver’s hatch open, followed by a lap in battle position with the driver’s hatch closed, seeing the track merely through the periscope.

All of the action on the course is caught on camera by the on-site photographers at Armourgeddon Photography, where at the end of your experience you can purchase 40-50 images on a disc.

Once safely parked, we were given a de-brief and handed back our suits and helmets and picked up our photographs, which we will look back on with fond memories of an experience never to be forgotten.

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Y family and I had never participated in any form of tank driving before, so the buzz in the car driving over was extremely animated. I’m not sure who was most excited as we entered the premises and saw the course, which is set around a WWII bombing range – mes or my 13-year-old son.

Armourgeddon is certainly one of a kind, providing an experience so different and unique. It is the worldwide home of Tank Paintball, incorporating Chaos Paintball and a wide range of activities including Airsoft for individuals, groups, corporate team-building days and private parties. Their most popular activity is the Tank Paintball Battle - all the fun of paintball but with you at the controls of a FV432 tank. Tanks, cannons, mud and guns. What more could you want from a day out?!

One of the great features of Armourgeddon is the military museum.

Even if you weren’t there to partake in any of the numerous activities on offer, the museum fee includes entry to the museum itself and a spectator area, where on selected days you can watch some of Armourgeddon’s vehicles being put to the test.

Under weatherproof hangers, packed full of military vehicles, guns, cannons and military paraphernalia, the museum helps visitors to understand a little more of life during WWI and WWII. The thought-provoking collection of gas marks, ration information, air crew clothing, helmets and much more gives visitors an insight into the world of covert operations and the high and lows of battle. There is a film area and hands-on games such as ‘Defuse the Bomb’.

The museum also houses tanks used in war-based movies of the last 20 years including Saving Private Ryan, Evita, Fury and many more. There is also a Bell 47 helicopter, Sherman tank, Centurion and a Chieftan tank to name but a few.

When it comes to guns, the museum offers quite a selection to view; some hand-held rifles in the interactive exhibition and other artillery guns, some self-propelled, several that sit on the top and back of flat-bed trucks, tanks and other military vehicles.

After an informative time in the museum, our driving slot was up. Our instructor, ‘Big G’, issued us with tank suits and helmets and after a safety briefing and some history about the FV432 tank, it was time to get going.

ARMOURGEDDON FACTS There are a wide range of activities and packages available: • Tank Driving and Tank Battles, Military Vehicle Driving as well as Hovercrafts, Quads, Paintball, Airsoft, Clay Shooting, Air Rifles and Archery • Minimum age: 16 years old driver and 8 years old passenger • Museum admission fee: £5 per person and under 5s go free.

• Check the website for further information including special offers, T&Cs and museum opening hours.

Husbands Bosworth, Near Lutterworth, Leicestershire, LE17 6NW. 01858 880239, www.armourgeddon.co.uk

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Neil & Louise Hitchen welcome you to

The Award Winning Wedding Venue Perfect Packages available to ensure you have your Perfect Day

Award Winning Country Pub

Find us in the latest editions of The Michelin Guide, Hardens Food Guide, Waitrose Good Food Guide and Alistair Sawdays Pubs & Inns.

Exquisite Grade II listed Manor House and Stunning Grade I listed Orangery All set in beautiful gardens 29 splendid bedrooms

“We had the most amazing day, everything went perfectly & we will remember our day for the rest of our lives…”

We look forward to hearing from you!

Please contact us on 01536 515505 - and ask to speak to Becky

Barton Hall Hotel Barton Road, Kettering, NN15 6SG enquiries@bartonhall.com | www.bartonhall.com 24

59 Main Street, Wymondham, Melton Mowbray, Leicestershire LE14 2AG www.theberkeleyarms.co.uk 01572 787587

T HE OL I VE B RAN C H R E C I PE S

A stunningly fresh taste!

The Olive Branch’s co-owner and head chef Sean Hope shares a zingy summer seafood recipe

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HIS issue’s recipe is quite involved but completely worth it.

Eating this scallop dish while looking out to sea on a sunny day, glass of dry white to hand, is the ideal scenario. That isn’t quite possible in Rutland (although Rutland Water isn’t a bad option!) but it doesn’t really matter. The fresh flavours you’ll get from this are amazing. The zingy finger limes pop in your mouth to release a burst of citrus caviar, then the summery cucumber works beautifully with the scallops and sea herbs to create a refreshing sea breeze of a dish. Additional flavours come from the saffron dressing and fennel puree, and the seaweed meringue brings texture and saltiness. As I say, you might find it a bit fiddly but the rewards are high. If you can’t bring yourself to make it at home, we do serve it at The Olive Branch, so you know what to do!

For the scallops 1. Preheat oven to 190C (Gas Mark 5) and bake the bottom of the queen scallop shells for five minutes to sterilise them, then allow to cool 2. Preheat a large frying pan with a drizzle of rapeseed oil 3. When smoking hot, sear the scallops in the pan for 30 seconds 4. Quickly flip the scallops and sear for another 30 seconds before seasoning with salt and pepper and adding a squeeze of lime juice 5. Remove the scallops from the pan and serve onto the arranged shells with the remainder of the garnish of diced cucumber, fennel purée,

The perfect bottle to go with this scallop dish is a crisp white from Greece: Manolesakis Estate Exis 2016 Drama. This fresh, zesty wine offers touches of peach, ginger and spice.Non alcoholic Seedlip garden with fevertree mediterranean tonic (lots of ice).

PHOTO: CLIVE DOYLE

QUEEN SCALLOPS, FINGER LIMES, CUCUMBER, SEA HERB SALAD AND SEAWEED MERINGUE Serves 4 • 20 cleaned queen scallops (or use 12 of the large variety) • 2 finger limes (you can order these online – try www. finefoodspecialist.co.uk) • Bunch of fresh sea herbs (ideally sea buckshorn, ice lettuce, samphire and sea aster – again, try www. finefoodspecialist.co.uk – or good alternatives are watercress, wild rocket & fennel) • 4 tablespoons diced cucumber • Handful seaweed meringue shards • 8 tablespoons saffron dressing (Olive Branch house dressing available from our Pub Shop) • 4 tablespoons fennel purée

A wine to match

seaweed meringue, sea herbs and dressing Fennel purée • 2 x fennel bulbs – peeled, roughly chopped • Juice of 1 lime • 1 tablespoon rapeseed oil 1. Place the fennel into a small saucepan, cover with water and add a pinch of salt 2. Bring to the boil and cook the fennel until soft and tender (around 10 minutes) 3. Drain off the fennel and allow to cool for five minutes 4. Place the cooked fennel into the blender with the lime juice and rapeseed oil and purée to a smooth consistency (a NutriBullet is ideal for this as it breaks down the fibres, so there is no need to pass through a sieve) 5. Serve onto plate with the scallops at room temperature Seaweed meringue This can be made the day before!

• 100g egg white • 75g caster sugar • 2 sheets dried nori seaweed, ground to a powder • Pinch salt • Drop of lemon juice 1. Place the egg white into a clean mixing bowl with the lemon juice and pinch of salt 2. Whisk the egg whites up until

light and fluffy 3. Gradually add the sugar to the egg white, then fold in the ground seaweed 4. Spread the meringue onto a lined baking sheet, then place into a warming drawer or low set oven and dry overnight until crisp 5. When the meringue is nice and crispy, break into shards and serve with the scallops Saffron dressing • 50ml white wine vinegar • 50ml water • 300ml rapeseed oil • Sprig of parsley • Sprig of dill • Sprig of thyme • Sprig of rosemary • Sprig of chervil • Sprig of tarragon • 1 crushed garlic clove • 3 sachets saffron • 0.5 teaspoon caster sugar • 0.5 teaspoon salt • 0.5 teaspoon lecithin (emulsifier) 1. Place the oil into a bowl with the herbs and garlic, cover with cling film and leave overnight in a warm place 2. Strain off the herbs from the oil through a sieve 3. Using a hand blender or whisk, blend the vinegar, water, saffron, sugar, salt and lecithin together to emulsify to a smooth dressing 4. Serve by drizzling the dressing over the scallops

Nettle & elderflower beer with your vote, sir?

Last month, The Olive Branch was transformed into a polling station on General Election day!

It was a good day – we love playing our part in the local community. A few voters refreshed themselves with a glass of our house Nettle Beer, which is made by Mark, our resident barman/forager/alchemist. It’s a bit like a cross between cider and sweet wine.

We’ve since improved it by adding a touch of our own elderflower syrup – delicious and refreshing – give it a try next time you’re in.

PASSIONATE ABOUT GOOD FOOD?

If you are passionate about local food and drink then you might like to join Great Food Club.

• Sign up at www.greatfoodclub.co.uk, free of charge.

RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING JULY 2017

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KID - F R I EN DL Y P U BS

Pint-sized trips Every Friday afternoon, Simon Gamble and his daughter Dixie head out on a mission to find the best child-friendly pubs in the local area. Here are a few of their top picks.

THE WHEATSHEAF, EDITH WESTON The pub sadly caught fire last year but now thanks to a full renovation the only smell of smoke comes from the direction of the kitchen (in a good way of course).

Like many pubs in the area, the food is of fantastic quality with great pride being taken in sourcing much of the ingredients locally. This doesn’t mean that the menu is littered with meals you can’t pronounce or afford - you’ll find good, solid pub grub here. Steaks; pies; scampi & chips; ploughman’s lunches; burgers and with an equally appetising ‘juniors menu’, there’s plenty to choose from and all fairly well priced.

Perfect for: a refuelling pit-stop on your mid-Rutland Water cycle ride.

Highchairs and kids’ menu available.

• 5 King Edward Way, Edith Weston, LE15 8EZ 01780 720083, www.wheatsheafedithweston.co.uk

THE BLUE BALL AT BRAUNSTON Thatch roof; church views; country village setting; log fires; exposed wooden beams; locally sourced food; their own (and very drinkable) casked ale - but what makes this place really stand out (if that long list hasn’t already tempted you to visit) are the little touches for the young ones.

Along with the spacious bar area, seemingly endless dining room space and changing facilities in both loos, there is a side room kitted out with an array of books and toys and even a couple of old desks with colouring utensils. Each month they hold a picture competition for the kids with the winner receiveing a pub voucher (I think that’s meant for grownups!?), art materials and the winning scribble is proudly put up on display in the pub. A true family-run pub.

Perfect for: a family lunch after traipsing around the shops in nearby Oakham.

Highchairs and kids’ menu and kids’ portions available on request.

• 6 Cedar Street, Braunston, LE15 8QU 01572 722135, www.theblueballbraunston.co.uk.

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PINT-SIZED TRIPS: Championing the baby-friendly boozers. Tired of visiting the same old ‘safe’ local, the Dixie and I head out every week to review pubs, inns, taverns and breweries and try to uncover what pint-sized provisions they have on offer and to poo-poo the notion that kids don’t belong in pubs. Follow on facebook /pintsizedtrips and instagram @pintsizedtrips

THE OLD WHITE HART, LYDDINGTON Perched about half way between Rutland Water and Corby, this lovely old pub is one of two in the village, but is easily spotted thanks to a 5ft tall pig, dressed in chef’s clothing that stands outside!

There’s a great mix of old school village pub vibes with rickety tables, low slung ceilings, open fires (for the winter time) alongside the more fancy, chic, modern-ish restaurant with tables and chairs that don’t threaten to collapse under you at any given moment. Outside there is plenty of seating as well as a number of Petanque pitches.

Perfect for: the outdoor space makes this a great end prize after a long walk with the dog and kids.

• Main Street, Lyddington, Uppingham, LE15 9LR 01572 821703, www.oldwhitehart.co.uk

THE FINCH’S ARMS, HAMBLETON What can you say about the lovely Finches Arms in Hambleton? A 17th century pub with more charm than Dermot O’Leary. If you’ve never visited here before then be sure to add it your list. A picturesque village setting in the heart of Rutland Water with a great selection of ales and wines, and incredible food. If the sun is out and the kids have exhausted themselves playing, cycling and swimming around Rutland, then this is the place to sit back, relax and just soak in the scenery.

Perfect for: a top-notch feed if you want to treat the kids (though maybe with slightly older children).

Highchairs and kids’ portions available on request.

• Oakham Road, Upper Hambleton, LE15 8TL 01572 756575, www.finchsarms.co.uk

THE KINGS ARMS, WING Walk around Rutland with your eyes closed and it won’t be long before you stumble into a pub – the place is littered with them.

Some though are little more hidden than others. This 17th century inn is beautiful and has everything on offer - a great selection of small batch beers, craft ciders, hot drinks and even their own smoke house, meaning much of what they serve has been produced on site. They also make homemade ice creams and sorbets.

Perfect for: grabbing a quiet drink and picking up some proper, local artisan produce to take home and enjoy over a BBQ. Highchairs available and kids’ dishes available on request.

• Top Street, Wing, LE15 8SE 01572 737634, www.thekingsarms-wing.co.uk

THE WHEEL AND COMPASS, WESTON BY WELLAND Everything that a traditional family-run country pub should be... great food, big pub garden and a field of cows next door. The Wheel & Compass has built a strong reputation for its selection of homemade meals, where traditional pub dishes sit alongside a daily changing specials board meaning there’s plenty of choice to keep the whole family happy.

And, with great midweek lunch time deals, you won’t be too annoyed when the kids woof down a plate of chips and leave behind a half-eaten burger.

Perfect for – taking a breather while the kids entertain themselves in the pub garden (complete with climbing frames) Highchairs and kids’ menu available.

• Valley Road, Weston-By-Welland, Market Harborough, LE16 8HZ 01858 565864, www.thewheelandcompass.co.uk

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Country Inn and Restaurant A warm welcome is assured at our quintessential old English county pub, bringing you the best of British home cooked meals and a choice of well kept Real Ales.

Why not join us for Sunday Lunch?

Choice of 3 roasts all served with the traditional trimmings £9.95 for one course up to £15.95 for three courses

Curry Night

1st Thursday of every month.

Two course menu with selection of starters, followed by three homemade curries £10.95 a head

Friday Lunchtime Special

2 Portions of Cod, Chips and Mushy Peas for £10 Tue, Wed, Thur 12pm – 11pm (Food 12pm – 2.30pm/6.30pm – 9.30pm) Fri, Sat 12pm – 12am (Food 12pm – 2.30pm/6.30pm – 9.30pm) Sun 12pm – 6pm (Food 12.30pm – 3pm).Closed Mondays

LAST ORDERS WILL BE TAKEN 30 MINUTES BEFORE FOOD IS STOPPED SERVING

14 Arnhill Road, Gretton | Northants, NN17 3DN

Tel: 01536 770268 www.thehattonarms.com

The George at Ashley

Thankyou so much for our fantastic wedding breakfast!

The food was amazing and we’ve had so much great feedback from our guests. The help from your staff setting up and on the day was above and beyond and they are an asset to your team.

Natalie and James

Come and join us at the following events: Saturday 1st July – Our New July Menu Starts Tuesday 4th July – American Themed Quiz Evening with a few American Nibbles! Starts at 7.30pm Entry only £1 Saturday 15th July – 6 Course Tasting Dinner £35 with optional Wine flight We also have 6 very comfortable ensuite bedrooms in The Coach House just £75 a Double inclusive of a delicious home cooked breakfast.

For more details and menus please visit our Facebook page or our website.

21 Main Street, Ashley, Northamptonshire. LE16 8HF T 01858 565411 E info@thegeorgeatashley.co.uk www.thegeorgeatashley.co.uk 28

FOOD & DRI N K

Afternoon tea at Stapleford Park O

OZING with opulence and Georgian splendour, you’re taken into a bygone era as soon as you arrive at Stapleford. Think woodpanelled walls, lavish drapes, breath-taking Capability Brown countryside from every huge window and famous residents (Michael Jackson, no less).

Indeed, gracious elegance comes as standard

here and the now famous afternoon teas don’t disappoint either, having become somewhat of an institution in their own right. And with good reason – aside from the exquisitely decadent surroundings of the Drawing Room with its glistening chandeliers and majestic portraits adorning the walls, every detail is catered for, from the vast array of tea, coffee and fizz options to the in-house bakery warm scones, delicate finger sandwiches and dainty homemade cakes. Vegetarians and those with dietary requirements and allergies are fully catered for – I hadn’t thought a gluten-free afternoon tea would work until now…

Mum and I opted for one traditional and one veggie afternoon tea to share – a lovely combination of sandwiches including fresh avocado and rocket, mozzarella and fresh basil pesto, honey roast ham and mustard – and cucumber of course! Alongside the delicious scones and clotted cream, sweet treats included white chocolate, raspberry and beetroot cake, blueberry and lemon artic roll and a saffron and passion fruit mousse – every single one took our breath away. We washed it down with china cups of earl grey and a glass of prosecco at a very reasonable £5 (Laurent Perrier brut is £12.40, LP Rose £19.50).

The service was impeccable and we could not fault it, or the afternoon tea. A lovely treat for couples, friends or family. Furthermore, Stapleford has a well-respected golf course so there are already plans for a trip with the other halves so they can play golf and the girls can enjoy the spa and afternoon tea – everyone’s happy! Even better, there’s a reasonably priced crèche, so you can relax and know that everyone is being looked after.

Afternoon teas start from £26 per person.

Stapleford Park Country House Hotel, nr Melton Mowbray, LE14 2EF, 01572 787057, www.staplefordpark.com Words: Rachael Bull

Hatton Arms in Gretton T

UCKED away in a small street in the picturesque village of Gretton, The Hatton Arms is believed to be the second oldest pub in Northamptonshire and probably acted as the gatehouse for nearby Kirby Hall.

We were warmly greeted into the cosy wooden beamed bar by owner Julie who has run the pub with her chef husband Neil for nearly 10 years.

We settled in and found that there were lots of tantalising dishes on offer along with traditional pub food. I was feeling adventurous and ordered Crispy Fried Jack Sprats, small herring-like oily fish, a little bigger than whitebait, which is filleted and fried in a wellseasoned crumb with a mix of poppy, flax and sesame seeds - an excellent and refreshing

starter with homemade tartar sauce and side salad. We also tried the Roasted Pear, Parma Ham and Tomato Bruschetta with a Celeriac Remoulade, a mix of flavours which complemented each other perfectly.

I opted for the Pan Fried Chicken Breast with Risotto Verdi and wasn’t disappointed.

My risotto was filled with peas and asparagus, giving it a vivid and enticing bright green colour.

We also ordered the 8oz Rib Eye Steak ‘blue’ and were happy to report that the chef cooked it to perfection. So many chefs overcook a steak and we were delighted this came exactly as it was ordered with delicious hand cut chips, roasted tomatoes and flat mushrooms with a Diane sauce on the side that was full of flavour.

At £15.95 this was great value too.

The desserts menu had a choice of Lemon Cheesecake, Chocolate Brownie, Belgium Waffles and more but we were too full to try them. Another time!

We quaffed our meal with the wine of the month - a hearty Alamos Malbec - and were also intrigued to see that there is a Hatton Arms Malt Whisky menu with a number of tasting notes and a flavour map on the back. For whisky aficionados Julie has seven or eight different whiskies available to try every month.

Hatton Arms, 14 Arnhill road, Gretton, Northants, NN17 3DN 01536 770268 www.thehattonarms.com Words: Sosennah Every

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BR I N G I N G L O C A L F O O D T O L IF E

Drink local!

Not so long ago, locally made gin was unheard of, coffee came from Nescafé and beer was the preserve of giant corporations. Things have changed…

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HIS issue we’re showcasing three local drinks producers who you might not have heard of. Each is run by passionate artisan producers who live in the region.

Our message at Great Food Club is to support local, so why not give these a try? I’d like to give special mention to Two Birds Spirits of Market Harborough, where I recently attended a gin-making workshop. After turning up at their beautifully kitted-out workshop, we learnt about the history of gin before making our own bottle of this amazing spirit. It was a fabulous experience and I highly recommend it.

TWO BIRDS SPIRITS In 2013, Two Birds Spirits became one of the first small-batch gin distillers in the UK to get a licence, making it an early bird in the recent gin revolution. Based in Market Harborough, it produces three carefully crafted gins and a range of flavoured vodkas. These are made in “Gerard”, the handmade copper still, which makes just 100 bottles at a time. Although the team do everything by hand (including adding the bottle caps, which is strangely satisfying to watch), this is a slick operation and it produces outstanding gins.

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Two Birds was built on the desire to create a great-tasting, traditional London Gin. This was achieved after much trial and testing. The signature London Gin uses juniper and just four other botanicals. Try it and you’ll get flavours of juniper (all gin must have juniper as the predominant flavour), plus coriander, citrus and orris root, plus a secret ingredient known only to Two Birds. They have also created a slightly sweeter Old Tom gin, which makes the perfect classic Martini, and a Speciality Cocktail Gin which, as the name implies, is ideal for cocktails as it has extra juniper to maintain the flavour when mixed. There is also an extensive range of Two Birds flavoured vodkas including salted caramel, passionfruit, raspberry, and afterdinner mint, plus a potent absinthe. Two Birds sources as many ingredients as possible from the UK. An excellent way to understand more about gin in general and Two Birds in particular is to attend its Gin Masterclass. Expertly run in the beautifully designed workshop by “Ginstructor” Simon, the three-hour session covers the

history and process of gin distilling. You’ll then make a 70cl bottle of gin to your own recipe.

You can choose from over 50 botanicals, from tea and thyme to bee pollen and hibiscus flowers, and the fun is in deciding on the overall style and balance of the individual flavours.

Simon gives guidance on your recipe and recommends quantities of each botanical, but you distil your own recipe in your own mini-still and then take the 70cl bottle home. The session is accompanied by a lot of gin tasting, so take a driver to get you – and your precious gin – home. www.twobirdsspirits.co.uk

By Anna Forgaard, GFC North Northants & Harborough Editor

TWO CHIMPS COFFEE Two Chimps Coffee is another brilliant specialist artisan food company based at Oakham Enterprise Park. A state-of-the-art and specially commissioned gleaming coffee roaster takes pride of place on their premises with a chilledout tasting room (complete with dodgem car!) next door.

They source singleorigin coffee beans in small quantities so the coffee is always at its best. Countries of origin include Colombia, Brazil, Papua New Guinea, Ethiopia, Mexico and Honduras. Coffee is sold via subscription and their fun and interactive online profiler will help you to decide what is best for you based on the time of day you like to drink, how often and what method you use to make coffee. Two Chimps are experts and will grind a coffee especially for you based on how you make it.

They also sell a wide range of coffee-making equipment to help you get the best out of your cup. Two Chimps will mail as little as a 250g pack. www.twochimpscoffee.com

By Robin Stewart, GFC Rutland Editor

Get the 2017 Handbook The Great Food Club Handbook 2017 is out now. With over 100 pages, the new Handbook is a handbag or glovebox-sized publication with one simple aim: to guide you to some of the best independent restaurants, pubs, farm shops, breweries, food producers, delis and cafes. It is available to buy now for £4.95 including postage. Go to www. greatfoodclub.co.uk, scroll to the bottom of the home page and click ‘Buy the Handbook’.

THREE HILLS BREWING There are microbreweries, there are innovative brewers – and then there is Three Hills.

This 225-litre nano-brewery operates from a converted garage at the family home in Woodford near Kettering, Northants. They produce ales and lagers using their unique approach.

Andrew Catherall has brewing in his blood (his father worked as a vinegar brewer) and he gained experience and knowledge brewing at a commercial, German-owned brewery in China.

But he has followed neither tradition nor the usual commercial approaches. Instead, he has turned the rules on their head and brews four beers under the same brand name each time – but changes the recipe with every brew.

It took us a while to understand how this approach could work because consistency is usually the aim for any brand. Andrew’s view is that he always brews excellent beer, but he has never brewed the perfect beer. With this in mind, he adjusts the recipe and ingredients every time, in the pursuit of perfection.

The four core beer styles produced by Three Hills are the malt-forward Sekhmet Amber Ale, Veda single-hop IPA, Anglian Dark Ale and Heidrun Pale Ale. Each new brew is identified by a new batch number and the specific ingredients for each batch are listed on the website and on the bottle. Heidrun is hoppy, easy drinking and has an ever-changing combination of New World hops. Sekhmet is always a deep amber ale, brewed with varying speciality German and Belgian malts plus Willamette and Pilgrim hops. Veda is an opportunity to learn the characteristics of a different single hop with every batch – previous versions have used Waimea, Nelson Sauvin, Mosaic and Azacca. The Dark Ale takes the local

Join Great Food Club Anglian water as the constant, with the hops and malts changing. Expect a dark, hoppy brew showing characteristics of a dark IPA, a stout and a porter.

Aside from the core styles, Andrew will be adding a Double IPA and New World IPA style to the range. He also constantly experiments with seasonal beers. These include a three-part stout series for winter, a saison series for spring and sour beers will be making an appearance later in the summer.

This approach may be unique, but Andrew applies the levels of care, attention to detail and precision that you would expect from any commercial brewery. Although the recipes change, we tasted two batches of the Heidrun and Anglian Dark Ale. Both were balanced, distinctly flavoured and clearly very well made.

Three Hills beers are available in bottles and key kegs, online and at various pubs and shops – currently in Northamptonshire, Derbyshire, Leicestershire and London.

Andrew’s motto is “Brew it, tweak it, nail it, move on” and this approach means every brew is exceptional and every brew is different. And that keeps Three Hills interesting. www.threehillsbrewing.com

By Anna Forgaard, GFC North Northants & Harborough Editor

With its new editing team, Great Food Club is on a mission to unearth brilliant food and drink gems in your area and beyond. We currently recommend around 320 pubs, restaurants, producers and food shops, and around 200 of them run exclusive offers for Great Food Club members. Offers include 10% off at Stamford Cheese Cellar, 10% off at The Tobie Norris, a complimentary cocktail when you dine from the a la carte menu at The Olive Branch, 10% off at The King’s Arms in Wing, and 25% off at The Fox & Hounds in Exton. It is completely free to join and get a membership card – no catches – and we never share your data – sign up at www.greatfoodclub.co.uk

About the writer Matt Wright founded and runs Greatfoodclub.co.uk, a Leicestershire-based website that celebrates and promotes local food and drink. His Great Food Club Handbook 2017 is out now

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Window Repair

Why replace your timber windows when you can restore? Traditional Restoration offers a cost-saving alternative to window replacement.

• Repairs and renovations • Overhaul and draught proofing • Reglazing and reputtying • Converting single glazing to double glazing Call James on:

Before

After

Before

After

Exterior joinery repair

01572 720524 or 07841 527855 tradrest@hotmail.co.uk

www.traditional-restoration.co.uk @tradrest

• Over 20 years’ experience of creating outdoor cooking and eating spaces • Design and build available from a modest barbecue to a full-blown outdoor kitchen

• Design and fabrication of bespoke cook-fires, braziers and firepits

• Wood-fired pizza ovens built to our own design or full installation of an Italian manufactured system To discuss options for outdoor cooking in your garden, please drop us a line by email or visit our website.

Contact: The Garden Cookhouse Company Phone: 07950 234497 • Email: mail@gardencookhouse.com Web: www.gardencookhouse.com

MAKE AN ENTRANCE.

•

Displaying the very best in British and European decorative lighting and the latest in LED technology.

•

Thousands of options and bespoke manufacture offering an unlimited choice.

•

Appointments and home visits available.

Take advantage of your garden and outdoor spaces this summer by updating your lighting from our vast range.

Open Tue to Sat 9am-5pm 13 Manor Walk, Market Harborough, LE16 9BP

01858 467716 www.harboroughlights.co.uk 33

HOME & GARDE N

Garden goals It’s finally the time of year when you can enjoy sitting outside in your garden. Prepare for family BBQs and long sunny evenings by giving your outdoor space a face lift.

WORDS: KIRSTIE MITCHELL

Introduce a few garden ornaments

Personalise your outdoor space with some ornaments. For a simple and understated look, introduce some pot plants and hanging baskets in your garden. For a classical Italian and Greek look, seek salvaged antique olive jars, Cretan pots and Pithoi. Rutland Garden Classics have a wide range of architectural antiques, stone troughs and decorative garden reclamation with hundreds of products available online.

Keep warm

When the temperature drops, a fire pit and some throws will provide a little welcome warmth for you and your guests. Available from Bosworths Garden Centre, recycled Kadai Firebowls are beautiful and functional. These bowls are handmade in a traditional way from recycled oil drums in India. Tweedmill organic cotton throws (£50) will keep you warm and cosy and come in assorted colours with matching cushions (£25), available from Sarah Harding Interiors.

WELLAND VALE GARDEN INSPIRATIONS TOP TIP: A specimen plant in a lovely container will provide structure. Clever positioning of garden mirrors or metal screens and roundels on fencing and walls add extra interest.

Light up Lighting is key to creating atmosphere says Harborough Lights.

When the sun goes down, the right outdoor lighting will allow you to enjoy sitting out in your garden, long into the evening.

Good garden lighting combines fixed lighting elements together with flexible spiked lights that can be rearranged to light seasonal plants. Remember for safety to light steps. Not only are LEDs up to 90% cheaper to run than halogen light bulbs, when recessed into a side wall they’re are ideal solutions and create atmosphere, as well as reducing the risk of anyone tripping. Harborough Lights supply a variety of outside lighting options and can offer expert advice.

Tree life As Lee Reynolds from UK Treework Ltd says: “Now is the time to sit back and enjoy your trees as there isn’t too much work to do at this time of year. However, keep an eye on young fruit trees as they may suffer with insects, particularly aphids. If this is the case, sticky bands can be applied on the stem to reduce insect migration. You can buy these at any plant centre.”

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RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING JULY 2017

Lawn care

LAWN CARE TIP: Reduce stress on your lawn by raising the level of your mower blades – this will encourage your grass to grow thick and healthy, giving you a lovely, luscious lawn.

DIAMOND MOWERS’ TIP: To ensure your mower is in great condition, service it regularly.

Diamond Mowers can supply, install and repair all types of mowers and strimmers. Visit their showroom in Market Harborough and view their vast range of quality garden machinery and accessories.

Euromec is an independent British company in Market Harborough that specialises in the sales and service of horticultural equipment and professional groundcare machines, supplying homeowners, landowners and groundcare contractors throughout the east of England.

Garden design and maintenance

Garden furniture and accessories

Brighten up your patio with new garden furniture and stylish fabrics. Look no further than the following retailers for inspiration:

“If you are thinking of rejuvenating your outdoor space, now is the perfect time to start planning for next year” recommends Yvette’s Design Solutions. “Planting beds will still be flourishing, which means you can assess existing structure and colour properly before deciding where you might like to make changes.” Yvette uses a combination of sustainable materials and planting schemes that reflect your own needs and preferences, to deliver designs that are both enjoyable and easy to use.

Fabrics from Brookside Carpets & Curtains

Welland Vale Garden Inspirations

Manuel Canovas fabrics from Elizabeth Stanhope Photo © Manuel Canovas BEFORE AFTER

David Fairley Gardens are dedicated to maintaining and creating wonderful landscape gardens. The company offers many gardening services, including a nursery specialising in mature and large plants, hedge plants, shrubs and herbaceous plants - all available to order online. “The most exciting and important part of improving an established garden or creating a great garden from a blank canvas is the choice and use of plants.” says David.

He advises thought must be given to the colour and form of the leaves, and the balance between.

“Mid-summer can be tricky to get right in the garden.” explains Elspeth Stockwell: “But there are plenty of plants to give you some mid-summer interest: plant majestic Agapanthus in large pots to give your patio a real lift while late flowering Clematis such as ‘Perle d’Azur’ will carpet your outside walls.”

Elspeth Stockwell Garden Design Ltd is an award-winning garden design studio based in Leicestershire.

On the outskirts of Desborough at West Lodge Rural Centre is West Lodge Plant Centre.

The beautiful three-acre site has expanded over the last 10 years and is home to a retail plant nursery, wholesale plant production and a design and landscaping and maintenance service. The company also specialises in water features and has an online shop where you can purchase all-of their products.

Whether for lounging or sharing meals, there’s a variety of furniture styles and prices to suit most pockets. Include some cushions and a colourful parasol to complete the look.

DIRECTORY Rutland Garden Classics, Oakham, 01572 720070, www.rutlandgardenclassicas.co.uk West Lodge Plants & Gardens, Desborough, 01536 764255, www.westlodgeplants.co.uk Harborough Lights, Market Harborough, 01858 467716, www.harboroughlights.co.uk Bosworths Garden Centre, Burton Latimer, 01536 722635, www.bosworthsgc.co.uk Sarah Harding Interiors, Uppingham, 01572 823389, www.sarahhardinginteriors.co.uk UK Treework Ltd, 0116 259 9896, www.uktreework.co.uk Diamond Mowers, Market Harborough, 01858 463932, www.diamondmowers.co.uk Euromec, Market Harborough, 01858 434011, www.euromec.co.uk Yvette’s Design Solutions, 07810 293808, www.yvettesdesignsolutions.co.uk Welland Vale Garden Inspirations, Uppingham, 01572 822729, www.wellandvalegardeninspirations.co.uk Elspeth Stockwell Garden Design, 07713 121930, www.elspethstockwell.co.uk David Fairley Gardens, Market Harborough, 01858 414245, www.davidfairleygardens.co.uk Elizabeth Stanhope, Oakham, 01572 722345, www.elizabethstanhope.co.uk Brookside Carpets & Curtains, Market Harborough, 01858 433334, Lumison, Lighting Design Solutions, Oakham, 01572 724600, www.lumisonlighting.co.uk Langton Greenhouse and Garden Centre, East Langton, 01858 545819, www.langtongreenhouse.co.uk RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING JULY 2017

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Gretton Garden Services Reliable landscape gardener located in the Gretton area and offering a range of gardening services including: • Grass Cutting • Hedge Cutting • Fencing • Decking • Patios

• Driveways • Turfing • Weed Spraying • Scarification • Pressure Washing

KEN RAWSON

GARDEN DESIGNS HELP!

with design problems, hot, dry or shady places, screening issues or just with that idea

You need somebody?

Call Chris Stubbs to see how his practical knowledge can turn your dreams into reality

01780 481624

www.kenrawsongardendesigns.co.uk Easton-on-the-Hill, Stamford. Established 1986

Mob. 07976 286664/Home. 01536 772434 email chrisstubbs57@hotmail.com

Call James on 01780 752119 info@marramgardens.co.uk www.marramgardens.co.uk

Garden Design & Construction

Garden Machinery Specialists

- SALES - SERVICING - SPARES STOCK CLEARANCE up to

30% OFF NEW MACHINERY while stocks last

Tel: 01858 463932

www.diamondmowers.co.uk 36

info@diamondmowers.co.uk

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HARBOROUGH HAPPENINGS Shops & Services in Market Harborough

Handcrafted by Harborough Kitchens

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INCE being established in 1993, Harborough Kitchens has garnered an enviable reputation for stunning, handcrafted bespoke kitchens and fine furniture for any room in the house.

Every item is their own exclusive design and built by expert craftsmen in their workshop in Market Harborough, using only the finest materials available with 21st century production technology.

Whether you’re after the latest designer trend or a more classic style, they’ll create your dream kitchen or interior to the highest standard and that is sure to impress and be a pleasure to use.

“Our craftsmen have a wealth of knowledge and understanding of kitchen design and manufacturing. All our kitchens and furniture are expertly handcrafted by the finest cabinet-makers. Our customers comment on the quality and also the clear lines of communication from start to finish, which ensures they’re delighted with the end-product.”

• Visit Harborough Kitchens at 11 Church Street, Market Harborough, LE16 7AA and the showroom at Gates Nurseries & Garden Centre, Somerby Road, Cold Overton, LE15 7QB. 01858 468416, www.harboroughkitchens.co.uk.

SheCan… Run

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HECAN… Run was set up by Kate and Emily after they got into running through a Race for Life event. Finding that the already established local running groups and clubs were a step too far fitness wise – and that sessions didn’t fit in around childcare and working husbands – they knew that they couldn’t be alone.

“After a year of searching for a running group for people just like us, we decided to set up our own. SheCan…Run was born.”

Since then, they’ve gone from strength to strength, ranging from a beginners’ course to half-marathon courses, all the time helping ladies find confidence and fitness through running and putting the emphasis on fun rather than speed. “We strongly feel that camaraderie and team spirit are the foundation of what makes SheCan… and we pride ourselves on offering a friendly welcome to anyone who wants to join us.”

Kate and Emily have also set up an affiliated ladies-only running club to offer a more competitive ‘arm’ to SheCan, open to any lady, local to Kettering and Market Harborough or not.

SheCan offers courses and blocks of running sessions, meeting on Mondays and Wednesdays in Kettering and Tuesdays and Thursdays in Market Harborough. Times vary depending on the season and last around an hour. While their sessions are aimed at people who’ve never run before, a base level of fitness is required to prevent injury and to ensure you get as much from the sessions as possible. As such, they ask that you can walk two miles in 30 minutes or less.

The next 8-week beginner’s course in Market Harborough starts on 27 June and costs £60. Sessions meet up twice a week on Tuesday and Thursday evenings at The Training Shed.

• Find out more about future dates and courses at www.shecandoit.co.uk or call Kate on 07810 096045 or Emily on 07545 915249.

Summer Fete & Open Day at Sunflowers Day Nursery

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F you’re looking for a fun, creative and caring nursery for your little one, then make sure you join the Sunflowers Day Nursery at their Summer Fete & Open Day and discover the range of unique learning opportunities they offer to babies and children in Market Harborough.

On Saturday 1 July, from 10.30am until 1.30pm, they have lots of family fun and activities planned including: • water play stations • face painting • activity stations • sandcastle competitions They are proud to be recognised as ‘OUTSTANDING’ by Ofsted for the second time in a row. If you would like to visit The Sunflowers Day Nursery before or after the Open Day, please contact them to arrange a visit.

They are currently booking nursery places for 2017/18, so please get in touch to reserve a nursery place for your child.

• The Sunflowers Day Nursery, Bowden Business Village, Harborough Road, Market Harborough, LE16 7SA. 01858 540227, www.thesunflowersdaynursery.com, sunflowers@the-laurels.net.

RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING JULY 2017

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T HROUGH T H E KE Y H O LE

STEP INSIDE…

A Classic redesign One Stamford couple embarked on an ambitious plan to transform their small kitchen and underused conservatory in collaboration with local company, Classic Stamford. Amander Meade was invited to take a look at the results.

PHOTOGRAPHY: ELLI DEAN

DESIGN CHALLENGE… Mr and Mrs K had lived in their detached home for seven years when they decided their living space just wasn’t working any more. “It was the usual problem,” explains Mrs K who had just retired and was spending more time at home, “the conservatory was too cold in winter and too warm in summer so was rarely used. We had a small kitchen and wanted to open up the space at the back of the house to improve the layout.” After a recommendation, the couple asked the Classic Stamford team for their advice.

Classic Stamford project manager Dan paid a visit to Mr and Mrs K to assess their needs and hear about how they wanted to improve the space. “Dan’s ideas were great,” adds Mr K, “he came up with three options for us and we decided to extend the rear aspect of the house by removing the existing conservatory, building a wider replacement as well as fitting a new, contemporary kitchen. We were very happy with the plans Dan submitted and having the whole project in the hands of one company

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RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING JULY 2017

ensured the efficiency and continuity we were looking for.”

CONSIDERATE CONSTRUCTION… Work began in September and ran for twelve weeks with the couple living on site throughout.

The Classic team prepared the site, completed the groundworks, and installed the new frames and roof before installing electrics, plumbing and finally fitting the new kitchen. “We were treated very courteously and with great consideration,” remembers Mrs K. “We had our sitting room sealed off so we could escape to that room and were never left without heating or water despite the size and complex nature of the job.”

WARM ROOF… As part of the redesign, the couple opted for Classic’s unique Warm Roof Installation on the extension. Described as the single biggest revelation in the home improvement sector for a decade, Classic installed a high performance roof, which not only reduces rain noise but

solves the problem of too much heat in summer and not enough in winter as well as promising considerable cost efficiencies to your heating – something Mr K can confirm. “The roof has proved incredibly effective; we use the room all the time and my winter heating bill has remained the same despite having doubled the size of the kitchen and added an extension – I was really pleased with that.”

STYLE NOTES:

• The kitchen units and appliances are all from Classic Stamford. The work surfaces are ‘Mistral’ in black. Under unit lighting and dimmers for the spotlights ensure flexible lighting for any time of day.

• The interior floor tiles are Spaces Bruges in gray from Topps Tiles with matching exterior tiles extending out onto the patio for a cohesive look.

• Dining table and chairs by Oak Furniture Land in Peterborough.

• Sofa by Next.

THE RESULTS… Mr and Mrs K chose a grey high gloss kitchen from Classic’s own showroom and are thrilled with the transformation. Mrs K had her heart set on an island to provide a sociable space as well as a contemporary, streamlined finish. Plenty of storage ensures space for crockery and accessories with smooth, soft close cupboards and drawers and there are practical touches she loves like the integral wine cooler and walk in larder. “The kitchen is so much easier and nicer to work in – not only do we have the defined cooking area but a generous dining space with a table to seat eight and a comfortable sofa and armchairs for relaxing with guests or watching TV together. We love the space now and have recommended Classic Stamford to several of our neighbours who have gone on to commission the firm to do work on their own homes – for us, there is no better endorsement than that.”

Contact Classic Stamford: Established over twenty five years ago, Classic is firmly established as one of the largest independent home improvement companies in East Anglia. Not only do they have hundreds of satisfied customers across the region, Classic is one of only 36 companies in the UK to have achieved a BSI Kite mark for installing windows and external doors. The firm is also a member of the Federation of Master Builders; has been endorsed by the Government Trust Mark scheme and is a FENSA Registered company.

• To find out more about all the home improvement services provided by Classic, contact the team at their Stamford showroom: 12 St. Leonard’s Street, Stamford, PE9 2HN. 01780 654 321 www.classicstamford.co.uk RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING JULY 2017

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Specialist in the manufacture, installation and care of natural stone.

With our experience in materials such as Marble, Granite, Neolith and Quartz, we are able to create stunning kitchen worktops, bath surrounds, vanity units, staircases, fireplaces, flooring and wall coverings.

We offer a personal and knowledgeable service with highly skilled craftsmen and pride ourselves on the quality of service, the quality of materials used and the workmanship of your finished product.

We offer a full supply, template, manufacture and installation service Open Monday – Friday 8am – 5pm, Saturday 8am – 3pm Unit 14-15 Wainman Road, Woodston, Peterborough, PE2 7BU Tel: 01733 687414 or 01733 370941 sales@olympic-marble.co.uk www.olympic-marble.co.uk

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With summer finally starting to feel like it’s arrived we have asked Rachel Altoft our Artistic Director to give her opinion on the colour trends we will be seeing and tips on how to keep your hair feeling good whilst away.

Sociable, Ladies only RUNNING GROUP

Q: So, in your opinion Rachel what’s going to be on trend this summer?

Rachel: In salon, we are starting to really see clients wanting to embrace the little bit of sunshine we’ve had. We have been adding lighter more subtle tones to the colour to give the hair a sun kissed, but natural look. I think this can be done on almost any current hair colour and if done correctly can really add a bit of interest to the hair.

Groups suitable for new runners and beyond Next 8 week beginner course starts Tuesday 27th June Booking essential Meeting twice a week in Market Harborough and Kettering

Run@shecandoit.co.uk shecandoit.co.uk

LOCAL PRIVATE CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGISTS Specialising in treating: • Low self-esteem and loss of confidence • Low mood, depression, self-harm and suicidal thinking

• Anxieties, phobias, obsessions and ruminations • Significant life events, trauma,

nightmares, flashbacks • Attachment and relationship difficulties • Abuse (physical, emotional and sexual) • Autistic Spectrum Disorders Adult Speciality

Johan Truter

Tel: 01780 758556 www.psychologistuk.co.uk Orion House, 14, Barn Hill, Stamford, PE9 2AE

Child and Adult Speciality, EMDR Consultant

Dr Alexandra Dent

Mbl: 07986 585270 www.alexandradent.co.uk

Orion House, 14, Barn Hill, Stamford, PE9 2AE Church Street Practice, Melton Mowbray LE13 0PN

Q: What about something that’s low maintenance for the holidays?

Rachel: Ballayage, it’s still really in fashion and we are seeing more and more celebrities sporting lighter ends, it feels like it’s been around for ever, but it’s still such a simple low maintenance way to have your hair, its popularity is still growing. You don’t have to worry about roots or having the colour retouched, it’s perfect for anyone struggling to find the time to have touch ups every few weeks.

Q: If we are in and out of the pool this summer can you recommend a product that will help keep our hair from feeling too knotty or damaged.

Rachel: Paul Mitchell ‘The Conditioner’ is a great product as you can leave it in the hair all day and it doesn’t require any rinsing. The hair will not go crispy nor does it look greasy. It’s a great product to help maintain the hair. Also, if you are lucky enough to go anywhere hot this year and are worrying about frizzy hair, why not have a keratin blow dry, it leaves the hair feeling amazing and will make hair maintenance on holiday a doddle. It’s great for all hair types and lasts for up to four months so the holiday season is a perfect excuse to get it done.

We look forward to seeing you soon

Thomas

Oakham 01572 756561 Uppingham 01572 822555 Melton Mowbray 01664 566812 Email: thomas@thomashairdressing.co.uk

www.thomashairdressing.co.uk 43

HEA L T H & B E AUTY

Health & beauty focus: anti-ageing eye care Lines, wrinkles, bags, dark circles… the list is endless when it comes to the troublesome signs of ageing under our eyes. Catherine Varney talks to local professionals to find the best treatments for picture-perfect peepers.

CACI EYE TREATMENT AT ELLIQUE At Ellique, the new CACI Ultimate Eye treatment is already proving to be very popular. Concentrating solely on the eye area, it works to lift, smooth and plump skin whilst erasing lines, dark circles and puffiness under the eyes. The treatment involves a skin resurfacing procedure that works by gently removing the dead layer of skin to significantly reduce skin imperfections such as pigmentation, age spots, wrinkles and impurities. Light therapy is also emitted from the device the therapists use to enhance circulation, promote wound healing, speed up cell renewal, stimulate collagen and also acts as a calming agent: the perfect noninvasive option for pepping up your eye area.

EXPERT ANTI-AGEING CARE FROM RUTLAND AESTHETICS New to the local area is Rutland Aesthetics, run by Dr Sunny Dhesi, an experienced GP with an interest in dermatology and aesthetics. Dr Sunny offers botox and dermal fillers to reduce lines and wrinkles as well as offering medical grade chemical peels for skin resurfacing.

He told me: “The glycolic peels remove the tough, top layer of skin, allowing skincare products to penetrate below the dermis and achieve the best anti-ageing results.

I use a range of products called NeoStrata; scientifically advanced with proven results in clinical trials, they are designed to resurface, restore and refine skin to make visible improvements to skin health and quality by strengthening the skin barrier function. NeoStrata is suitable for a wide range of patients with photodamaged skin to tackle the signs of ageing including skin laxity, wrinkles, crow’s feet, discolouration, under-eye puffiness, rough, dull skin and enlarged pores.”

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RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING JULY 2017

ADVANCED EYE SERUM FROM THE CHAELIS CLINIC Whilst many eye creams make impressive claims, there are very few over-the-counter options that make a visible difference to this area. For this, you need professional-grade products. Specifically formulated for the delicate eye area, AQ Eye Serum available from the Chaelis Clinic in Kettering promotes smoother, youngerlooking skin. It is designed to stimulate the skin’s natural process of repair and rejuvenation by providing the biological elements that are present in young, healthy skin. The concentrated GF technology helps to reverse wrinkles, diminish fine lines, firms and lifts sagging skin, reduces puffiness and fades dark spots under the eyes by promoting circulation.

SURGICAL OPTIONS FOR EYES If you feel that a more permanent result is needed, then cosmetic surgery may be your best option. Enquire about a thorough consultation with the experienced team of cosmetic surgeons at the Spire Hospital in Oadby. Eye bag removal, also known as blepharoplasty, can be performed to improve the appearance of your upper and lower eyelids and produce more youthful-looking eyes. The ultimate aim of the surgery is to remove or relocate fat and smooth the loose, lined, crepey skin that can be associated with sun damage and the ageing process. The procedure is performed under general anaesthetic and will create a brighter, fresher, more youthful eye area - however, it’s worth noting that this surgery can’t remove crow’s feet or rectify dark shadows under the eyes. Anti-wrinkle injections can be used in conjunction with a blepharoplasty to further refine the eye area.

ENHANCE YOUR EYES There are many ways in which you can improve the appearance of your eyes without the use of anti-ageing treatments. Mascara (when applied correctly) can really open your eyes up, but avoid putting lashings of mascara on your bottom lashes as this can create dark shadows, making eyes looks older and more fatigued. Instead, why not forego the mascara altogether and opt for a naturally enhanced look with the LVL lash treatment at Naomi Nails and Beauty. This unique tint and lift treatment really opens the eyes up by lifting from the root, thus giving a more youthful appearance.

If your natural lashes require a bit of extra help then individual eyelash extensions are a flattering and fuss-free option. At Moko Salon and Spa, they use the Lash Perfect Express eyelash system that results in longer, thicker and fuller lashes in just 45 minutes for the cost of £30. Results can last for between 8-12 weeks depending on individual lash growth

cycle, with maintenance every 2-3 weeks.

They say that perfectly groomed brows can be as good as a face lift so pay a visit to the brow bar at Barnsdale Spa. The full brow experience costs £30 and combines in-depth consultation, tinting, waxing and the application of finishing products to create the perfect arch, whether you want natural looking brows or a more dramatic shape, the beauty therapists will tailor them to your face shape and requirements.

FIVE-MINUTE FIXES Had a late night and undereye bags are causing you problems? Believe it or not, a light application of pile treatment will do the trick!

Applied sparingly, it works in the same way as it does on the area it was intended for – shrinking blood vessels with puffiness disappearing instantly.

If you’ve got a mild eye infection such as conjunctivitis or pink eye, then I swear by colloidal silver water. Naturally antiseptic, silver water also possesses excellent antibiotic properties that enable it to fight various infections caused by viruses and bacteria. The tiny silver colloids suspended in the distilled water pick up the infected cells by attracting them electromagnetically and transfer them into the bloodstream, allowing them to be eliminated from the body.

Red, bloodshot eyes can be a common occurrence if you use a computer screen for long periods of time, suffer from hayfever or are susceptible to environmental irritants. I would advise steering clear of cucumber as the astringent properties can further irritate eyes – instead, pop a couple of organic chamomile teabags in warm water for a few minutes, gently squeeze out excess water and pop over your eyes. Works to reduce redness every time!

Banish dark circles with the use of an under-eye illuminator (don’t be tempted to multi-task with your regular concealer as this is too thick and will just settle in lines and wrinkles). If budget’s no bother then go for supermodel favourite YSL Touche Eclat (£25.50). But for us mere mortals on more of a shoestring, then L’Oreal Paris Touche Magique (£7.99) is an excellent option.

DIRECTORY: The Chaelis Clinic, Sten Beren, Main Street, Lowick, Kettering, NN14 3BH, 01832 733811, www.chaelis.co.uk Ellique, 55 South Street, Oakham, LE15 6BG, 01572 723950 Barnsdale Spa, Oakham, Rutland, LE15 8AB, 01572771313, www.barnsdalehotel.co.uk Naomi Nails and Beauty, 14 Manor Walk, Market Harborough, LE16 9BP, 01858 657001, www.naominailsbeauty.co.uk Moko Salon & Spa, 2 Church Street, Market Harborough, LE16 7AA, 01858 432525, www.mokohair.co.uk Spire Hospital, Gartree Rd, Oadby, Leicester LE2 2FF, 0116 214 9106, www.spirehealthcare.com Rutland Aesthetics, 07775 839921, www.rutlandaesthetics.com RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING JULY 2017

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Is this

you?

If not, please contact

BREAK AWAY EVENTS

for details, a friendly and welcoming group.

Monthly walks, days out, theatre trips etc.

No membership required.

Tel: 0330 1139780 www.breakawayevents.co.uk Email: admin@breakawayevents.co.uk

The Lady Rothschild Dairy

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COUNTRY HOLIDAY HOUSES

hree luxury self-catering holiday houses located on the famous Ashton Estate surrounded by wildflower meadows, rolling farmland and magical woodlands – the perfect country retreat. The houses are finished with an emphasis on quality, in a style that is both comfortable and elegantly modern. The solid oak finishes and natural features make each house individual. The Lady Rothschild Dairy is of exceptional architectural interest and has been awarded Grade II* listed status.

The Constable House – Sleeps 9 + 3 The Turner House – Sleeps 8 + 2 The Gainsborough House – Sleeps 8

Offering a friendly, flexible and caring service, I am fully insured and police checked with over 7 years cat sitting experience. References can be supplied if requested.

Covering Rutland, Stamford,Oakham and surrounding areas.

Phone: 07464 679090 Email: sarah@purrfect-catsitting.co.uk Web: www.purrfect-catsitting.co.uk

Website: www.ashtonestatecountryholidays.co.uk Email: estateoffice@ashton.ohllimited.com Tel: 01832 272264 / 07831 855206

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UPDATES News & Views

New agency helping house hunters RURAL HOME FINDER is the newly established property-finding business, created by local resident and property expert, Katie Gutteridge

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EVISED through her love of the rural East Midlands and her passion for property, Katie created Rural Home Finder as a means of providing a bespoke service for people looking for their dream home in this region, including Leicestershire, Rutland and Stamford.

Services include an unlimited number of property viewings, with an honest, unbiased report of the condition of each property, as well as guidance on possible home improvements, costings and planning advice - saving buyers valuable time and unnecessarily needing to deal with multiple agents.

For almost a decade Katie and her partner Andy have been renovating period properties in beautiful villages throughout the region.

With their knowledge of the local area, and experience of buying and selling properties, Katie saw an opportunity to offer a service to help other buyers with their searches.

“It’s been a seller’s market for a while now, with ever-increasing demand and a shrinking supply of property available,” explains Katie, who began researching the basis for her business idea last summer, and found that there is more of a need than ever for people to use her property-finding services, as it is thought that as many as 1 in 3 properties are now selling before they’ve even come to the market.

“Buyers need someone dedicated to searching and sifting through potential properties, to their exacting needs, as well as having a proactive agent who will source off-market properties through strong local connections, that won’t be available to the average home-buyer.”

The trend for utilising property-finding agents is already quite

established in central London, where the supply/demand problem is multiplied. However, Katie doesn’t think it’ll be long before buyers become more aware of the benefits of having your own dedicated finder outside of the city.

“More people are looking to relocate to the countryside, and with many of our train stations accessible to the London market within an hour, local property-hunters may find themselves competing with London-based searchers more often.”

Eager to keep the business local, affordable and bespoke, Rural Home Finder offers the same dedicated services as larger London-based agents, but at a fraction of the price, and with the added benefit of supporting a local independent company.

• For more information visit www.ruralhomefinder.co.uk email: info@ruralhomefinder.co.uk and follow on Facebook/ Instagram: @ruralhomefinder.

T-lab is ready for summer

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UTLAND clothing company T-lab is getting ready for summer with a new women’s range, a raft of new men’s designs and re-launches of old favourites.

Best known for its original collection of men’s t-shirts, the company is now launching a new range aimed at women.

As T-lab director Mitch Cunningham explains, “Although we sell men’s t-shirts, we noticed that a large number of our customers were women, buying our t-shirts as gifts or treats for their partners or family. As we were attracting a lot of female customers, we thought we should offer them something they could wear for themselves.”

The small-but-growing women’s range incorporates T-lab’s distinctive design style to create t-shirts that are both fun and stylish. The latest design, Brasilia Bird (pictured bottom left), features imagery inspired by a café sugar cube wrapper combined with this season’s tropical hues. Using 100% organic combed ringspun cotton, the top has an on-trend loose cut, perfect for dressing up or down.

T-lab haven’t forgotten about their men’s range however, and this summer sees three new designs for surf, cycling and motorsports fans, as well as a re-launch of three classic summer designs, following requests from customers.

T-lab are confident that their new range will appeal to overseas buyers as well as their local clientele. As Mitch explains, “Although only a small independent label based in Rutland, we sold designs to over 30 different countries around the world last year.”

T-lab have attracted both national and international press coverage, with their t-shirts being particularly popular in Scandinavia, a region well-known for its love of cool style.

• See more of T-lab’s men’s and women’s t-shirts at www.t-lab.eu.

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UPDATES News & Views

Stay hydrated this summer says local home care provider

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OME care provider Bluebird Care Peterborough & Rutland is urging older people, their families, friends and neighbours across the area to think about staying hydrated this summer.

As the weather gets warmer, Bluebird Care Peterborough & Rutland is sending out the strong message that heat and sun exposure is extremely serious and potentially life threatening – and is urging people in the area to stay hydrated and prepare for the hotter days with some simple tips to stay safe in the sun.

Due to the soaring temperatures in July 2016 there were 1,661 deaths recorded in England & Wales, compared with a five-year average of 1,267 (ONS, 2016). Staying hydrated is essential particularly for those in high-risk groups, such as babies, children and older people. Government recommendations suggest everyone should have around 6-8 glasses a day, which can be water or sugar-free drinks (NHS Eatwell Guide, 2016).

With the frequent and sudden changes in British weather, Bluebird Care Peterborough & Rutland want to issue a reminder for people to get prepared for the hotter weather.

Tips from the NHS include: • Keep your home cool by closing your blinds and curtains • Avoid extreme heat where possible • Stay hydrated with water, avoiding alcohol, caffeine and sugary drinks • Stay alert by keeping up to date with weather forecasts • Check on relatives and neighbours who may be most at risk • If you need to go outside plan ahead, have plenty of food and water as well as sun protection (sun cream, sun hat and sunglasses) • Avoid outings in the middle of the day, 11-3pm is the hottest part of the day.

Commenting, Nadine Wilmer, Care Manager of Bluebird Care Peterborough & Rutland said: “Many vulnerable people feel lonely and isolated and we are often unaware of the real threat to life that extreme weather can cause to at-risk groups.

“Staying hydrated in the summer months is vital as the sun can often catch us off guard, giving little time to take precautions against the heat. It’s important to start planning for the hotter weather now by taking simple precautions like making sure you are aware of the weather forecast, finding an hour to keep cool, speaking to your neighbours about coping with extreme heat and make sure you are drinking enough fluids.

“We’re reaching out to the community to ask anyone at risk to keep in regular contact with friends and neighbours. If you have an elderly relative or neighbour, please check them in hot spells to make sure they’re coping.”

Nadine adds, “If anyone would like further hot weather advice or information about summer homecare, please call us on 01780 480 881. We’ll be delighted to help.

Let’s look after one another this summer.”

• www.bluebirdcdare.co.uk/ peterborough-rutland

Cycling 1700 miles to 42 cathedrals to help young people

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OCAL couple Robert and Margaret Miles have set themselves the challenge of cycling to all 42 Anglican cathedrals in England during the summer months, raising funds for two organisations that support the wellbeing and emotional needs of young people.

Robert and Margaret have divided their cycle challenge into six separate trips, covering a group of cathedrals every month.

They started in March, cycling from their home in Clipsham to Peterborough cathedral and then over the next five days visited cathedrals in Ely, St Albans, Chelmsford, Bury St Edmunds and Norwich. In April they cycled a 300-mile circuit visiting eight cathedrals in the Midlands and surrounding area. Their next trip in May was the “West wing” and took them from Truro to Oxford.

As they explore the cathedrals they have been welcomed by many and have so far enjoyed photos with the High Sheriffs of Rutland, Leicester and Norfolk as well as tours and tea with Deans. The couple, who have

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lived in Rutland for almost 20 years, enjoy working with young people and Margaret has taught in local schools during this time.

The bike ride will raise money for local organisation the Sustainable Land Trust, which provides alternative education and work experience for children from Rutland and Leicestershire who have been excluded

from school, as well as people with learning difficulties. It will also raise money for Young Minds, a national charity that supports children and adolescents with mental health issues.

• You can donate to either of these organisations and follow their progress through their blog at: www.milescathedralcycle.com

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Set in beautifully landscaped gardens our apartments offer 24 hour security with nurse call and intercom service, chef, complete laundry and cleaning service, utility bills, council tax and much more included in the price.

Our professionally trained carers are on site 24 hours a day to assist you at your request and a private minibus is available for shopping or social visits.

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www.guildofmasterchimneysweeps.co.uk 51

UPDATES News & Views

Expert craftsmanship from Natural Structures

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NATURAL oak timber framed building really can be awe-inspiring. Natural Structures is passionate about capturing the beauty of oak and using the skills of its artisan craftsmen to create fabulous living spaces. Based in Tur Langton, the company has a wealth of experience creating timber framed buildings and extensions throughout the UK. Managing Director Simon Lewington says “We love talking to potential clients about their vision for their home. Often they know roughly what end-result they are looking for but would like the whole project to be managed for them and that’s what our turn key service is all about. We like to be involved at the earliest possible stage, because that allows us to make practical design

suggestions based on our wealth of experience before the drawings even go in for planning permission.

“We’re used to working with traditional materials, local styles and construction methods and listed buildings. We can organise planning consents, liaise with kitchen suppliers and interior designers too. Those choosing our turn key service know that everything will be handled for them - we simply hand over the keys at the end of the project!”

Natural Structures creates timber-framed buildings of all types, from a beautiful

timber-framed grand design house to a small outbuilding, a kitchen extension to a boathouse.

The one constant is that the design detailing and the craftsmanship is there in every project. It’s that expertise that makes Natural Structures special.

“Sometimes it’s difficult for a client to visualise how something might look, so our in-house architects create a 3D concept model to bring their ideas to life.”

• Call 01858 545518 or visit www.naturalstructures.co.uk to find out more.

Allison and Allison

Bespoke jewellery from B Jewellery

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A

UTLAND-based wallpaper designer Annie Allison has recently launched her new collection of stunning designs entitled ‘Thirteen’. The name was inspired by Annie’s thirteen year old daughter, whose birthday is 13 June and there are thirteen different designs in the collection – all of which can be produced in a number of colourways.

Annie began her artistic career creating pen and ink drawings in her trademark pared back style and encouraged by friends and family, decided to translate her stylish creations into beautiful, bespoke wallpaper. Allison & Allison’s first project was an image of Minna the wire-haired terrier, which was used to create highly personal wallpaper for a boot room. A commission for a number of individually designed bedrooms for a boutique hotel on the Norfolk coast quickly followed. More recent work includes a collaboration to create a bespoke range of in-house wallpapers for a leading London children’s boutique and interior design practice.

The bespoke nature of Annie’s work is a key element to everything she does and individual commissions are popular.

The designs in the ‘Thirteen’ collection are designed to reflect Annie’s passion for originality and will give scope to add a personal touch to any interior scheme.

• Find out more at www.allisonandallison.co.uk or Tel: 07960 949423

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RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING JULY 2017

NYONE looking for bespoke jewellery in Northamptonshire should look no further than B Jewellery.

Belynda Faulkner, jewellery maker and designer, launched B Jewellery four years ago after leaving her corporate lifestyle in the diamond industry.

“What I love now is I can design and create jewellery based on each and every customer’s personal style.”

B jewellery can create anything from a special engagement ring to a wedding band but the uniqueness of Belynda Faulkner is that she will create something truly bespoke to you.

“I offer a free design consultation that can tailor a piece of jewellery to any budget.

With the shop in Nene Court, Wellingborough, you can come and see the onsite workshop and see the traditional tools used to make the jewellery.”

Belynda specialises in hand-engraved fingerprints onto jewellery and you can even have pictures of your children’s drawing adapted as part of a design.

Belynda also hosts make-your-own jewellery workshops at her in-house studio based in Nene court shopping village.

• Book your free consultation at www.b-jewellery.co.uk or call 07514141978.

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D ES IG N I NT E RI O R S

The Old Dairy, Burghley Park Nestled in the heart of the Burghley Estate, with unsurpassed views of Burghley House, sits the Dairy.

Brownlow Cecil, the 2nd Marquess of Exeter, had a passion for Jersey milking cows. His ambitious renovations to the Burghley Estate included the creation of a model dairy farm. The livestock tradition continued at Burghley until the dairy herd became unsustainable in the mid-20th Century, and the Dairy fell into disrepair. In 2016, the Burghley House Preservation Trust launched an ambitious project to give this spectacular 19th Century building a new lease of life. Since then, it has undergone an incredible transformation. Rannveig Stone

‘Over the course of 15 months, the Dairy has been lovingly developed into a unique and luxurious holiday house for up to 20 people.’

David Pennell, Estates Director, Burghley Estate Q. What was the aim of the restoration?

The Dairy embodies a huge amount of the Estate’s history, so we wanted to keep that alive in the conversion and restoration of the building. It was vital that the Architects, Interior Designers and Building Contractors working on the Dairy shared our vision and we were very fortunate to draw together a fantastic team, namely: • Architects – Simon Harris of Harris McCormack Architects • Interior Designer – Thomas Hamel • Building Contractors – Orchard Builders Q. What was the most successful aspect of the project?

I’m really pleased with the way the old has been seamlessly combined with the new. Having used stateof-the-art equipment (boiler taps, dishwashers and cappuccino machines) to brew a cuppa in the modern, well-appointed kitchens, guests can luxuriate in the comfort of the spacious seating area, admiring the historic architecture and stunning views of the parkland.

We were determined to preserve as many existing features as possible, such as the beautiful exposed brickwork. Where items couldn’t be used to fulfil their original function, we repurposed them as imaginatively as possible.

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Quirky reincarnations of original dairy fittings: • Cast iron drinkers from each cow stall now act as cloakroom basins • Huge feed troughs have been repurposed as handy storage benches in the boot rooms • Cattle stall bricks, complete with drainage gulleys, now form attractive pathways to the Dairy and around the garden • Much of the old wood from the cattle stores has been used for panelling • Original doors from the stalls are used throughout the Dairy, both practically (to conceal the scullery kitchen) and decoratively • Old cattle stalls (complete with cast iron railings) have even been upcycled into some very interesting headboards!

Q. How did you approach the design of the Dairy’s interior?

In order to achieve absolute luxury and comfort, we worked with top international interior designer, Thomas Hamel. Thomas’ design team researched the history of Burghley House to create accommodation which closely reflects the rich heritage of The Estate.

To complement the thoughtful repurposing of various elements of the Old Dairy, we commissioned local artisan, Claire Langley Antiques of Harringworth, to restore and reupholster carefully selected pieces of furniture from Burghley House. Blanchard Interiors assisted in sourcing a range of items for the Dairy. Items were sourced from a wide range of companies namely, The Dining Chair Company, Ecco Trading, Arcadia Antiques, Loaf, Oka, Cox & Cox, John Lewis, Sofa & Chair Company, Pottery Barn, Robert Langford, Heathfield, Chelsea Textiles, Neptune and Graham & Green were the leading few. We also sourced many items locally, such as the range of china ware by Sophie Allport.

Having been forced to fell one of the magnificent oak trees planted by Capability Brown over 250 years ago, we’ve ensured it

lives on by having it crafted into two enormous oak dining tables by Mark Atton, a master joiner based in Market Overton. The Capability Brown Oak tables are perfect for big family dinners, board game marathons and lazy Sunday breakfasts.

Pictures of some of Exeter’s beloved cattle hang on the walls, along with landscape images of Burghley Park throughout the centuries.

An enthusiastic breeder of native shorthorn cattle, Exeter took great pride in Telemachus, his champion bull. Guests exploring the Dairy’s many nooks and crannies will discover an assortment of unusual items relating to this passion, including the trunk which stored all the trophies and rosettes from Telemachus’ prizewinning days.

Q. What might you do differently?

If I knew at the outset of the project what I know now, I would definitely have got the lighting engineers involved much earlier on in the process. Lighting plays a crucial part in creating the ambience that guests enjoy and showing off the various features we’ve so painstakingly preserved.

Q. Why have a break at the Dairy?

The Dairy offers great flexibility, as it can be taken either as one large residence for up to 20 people, or separated into two houses which both sleep ten. It’s ideal for groups of friends, family reunions and all manner of celebrations.

The Dairy’s spectacular dining and living spaces are perfect for parties or for more intimate gatherings, where enjoying the open fires and wonderful views are the order of the day.

Guests will really feel part of Estate life; they might look out of the window to see a very characterful herd of sheep going about their business; or sit in the garden, enjoying front row seats at the famous Horse Trials. Those preferring seclusion will not be disappointed.

With high-speed broadband, widescreen TVs, walk-in power showers and huge bath tubs in each en-suite bathroom, guests can be assured of a comfortable and relaxing stay. There’s even space for (well-behaved) dogs and an enclosed garden.

• To book your luxury getaway at The Dairy visit www.ruralretreats.co.uk

SUPPLIERS/CONTACTS: Architect; Harris McCormack Architects, ArcHouse, Wansford PE8 6JN; www.harrismccormack.co.uk; 01780 433334 Building Contractor; Orchard Building Contractors Limited, Unit 4, South View Business Park, Tinwell Road Lane, Stamford PE9 2JL; www.orchardbuilders.co.uk; 01780 753343 (option 2) Interior Designer; Thomas Hamel & Associates, 78 Renwick Street, Redfern, New South Wales 2016, Austrailia; www.thomashamel.com Master craftsman in Market Overton; Mark Atton; www.finegrainfurniture.co.uk; 01572 767340 Chinaware; Sophie Allport, The Barn, 29 Kings Street Industrial Estate, Langtoft, Stamford PE6 9NF; www. sophieallport.com; 01778 560256 Rutland Catering and Bar Supplies Limited, 16 Pillings Road, Oakham, Rutland LE15 6QF; www.rutlandcateringle15.co.uk; 01572 756370 Harrison & Dunn, 3 All Saints’ Street, Stamford PE9 2PA; www. harrisonanddunn.co.uk; 01780 762088 Soft furnishings; Blanchard Interiors, 55 Regent’s Park Road, London NW1 8XD; www.blanchard.uk.com; 020 7722 1242 Re-upholstered furniture; Claire Langley Antiques, Seaton Road, Harringworth, Corby, Northamptonshire NN17 3AF; www.clairelangleyantiques.co.uk; 01572 747316 • Rannveig Stone is Director of interior design firm Anna Stone Design Ltd, based at the Stamford Garden Centre, Great Casterton, PE9 4BB. www.annastonedesign.com; 07900883117.

RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING JULY 2017

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OUT & ABOUT Amander Meade selects some of the best entertainment in the region this month.

Sunday 16 July to Sunday 23 July, daily 10am to 4pm EVENT: Summer Exhibition Oakham Art Group present their summer exhibition. You are invited to view paintings put together

by Oakham’s talented artists.

Victoria Hall, Oakham Admission is free.

Admission 50p Belton Pre-School

Saturday 1 to Saturday 22 July, 7.30pm (matinees available) MUSICAL THEATRE: Miss Saigon Winner of a recordbreaking nine Whatsonstage Awards 2015 including Best Show, this epic love story tells the tragic tale of young bar girl Kim, orphaned by war, who falls in love with an American GI called Chris – but their lives are torn apart by the fall of Saigon.

Curve, Leicester Tickets from £10 Tel: 0116 242 3595 www.curveonline.co.uk

Saturday 15 July, 7.30pm CONCERT: Music in Lyddington This month’s concert features Philip Dukes, described by The Times as ‘Britain’s most outstanding viola player’, and Anna Tilbrook who is one of Britain’s most exciting pianists. Both musicians are regular performers at Europe’s major concert halls and festivals.

St Andrew’s Church Tickets in advance £16 (students £3) from Oakham Wines and Uppingham Sports & Books Further information at www.musicinlyddington. co.uk

Saturday 29 and Sunday 30 July MUSIC: Simon Says Festival Now in its fifth year, the festival will showcase the finest talent from Leicester’s music scene and beyond, along with real ales, cocktails, food and drink and much more.

Rutland’s own Tin Pigeons are confirmed to play along with Ash Mammal, Cohesion, Chris Conway and Dan Britton and The Double Yellers.

De Montfort Hall and Gardens Tickets in advance £40/£30 with under 16s £5 and under 10s free although they still require a ticket. Under

Thursday 6 to Sunday 9 July MUSIC: Great Bowden Music Fest The fourth annual Great Bowden Music Fest 2017 consists of six concerts featuring internationally established musicians, young talent and local choirs in a variety of genres including classical, musical theatre and jazz. ‘Mostly Mozart’ is on Thursday 6 at 7.30pm, ‘From Stage and Screen’ is on Friday 7 at 7.30pm, Coffee and Chamber Music is on Saturday 8 at 11.30am with ‘All That Jazz’ on the same day at 7.30pm. ‘Coffee and Piano’ is on Sunday 9 at 12pm and the Fest Finale also takes place on the Sunday at 5.30pm featuring the Harborough Singers and the Great Bowden Camerata.

Great Bowden Parish Church Tickets are £10 per evening concert, lunchtime coffee concerts are free.

Further information at www. greatbowdenmusicfest.co.uk or call 01858 432182.

From Thursday 6 July Football teams are needed to form a new six-a-side football league on Monday evenings at Uppingham Community College and Thursday evenings at Stamford School. Enter for free and take advantage of a free kit offer. Flexi squad system and FA qualified referees. League winner takes home a trophy and cash prize. For further information contact Eshelby Leisure Tel: 0773008909 Saturday 8 July, 11am to 2pm EVENT: Summer Fete A traditional summer fete with a bouncy castle, pony rides, barbeque and refreshments, classic games, crafts and produce stalls.

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Wednesday 19 July to Sunday 3 Sept (7 days a week), 10am - 6pm daily (last admission 4.30pm) SEASON OPENING: Wistow Maze To mark the 130th anniversary of the first Sherlock Holmes novel by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, this year the maze has been designed in the shape of Sherlock himself. The Quiz Trail has a ‘Whodunit’ theme, and visitors will have to find clues hidden amongst the three miles of pathways to solve the curious case of the Wistow Maze.

Wistow Rural Centre, Leicestershire Admission £6.95/£5.95 (under two years old free), Family ticket £24. Children under 14 years must be accompanied. Parking is free. www.wistow.com Tel: 07884 403889

16s to be accompanied by a paying adult.

Further information and booking at www. demontforthall.co.uk Sunday 30 July EVENT: Ashwell Summer Fete A traditional village fete with Rutland Morris Men, tombola, a garden and plant sale, dog show, The Tin Pigeons

a white elephant stall, Punch & Judy shows and lots, lots more.

Adults £2, children free. All proceeds to St Mary’s Church, Ashwell, Ashwell Village Hall and Leicestershire, Rutland & Derbyshire Air Ambulance.

12 to 5pm, Ashwell Grange, Whissendine Road, Ashwell.

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UPDATES News & Views

Family Law: can I obtain a ‘no fault divorce’?

There can be many reasons for a marriage to break down, however not every marriage breakdown is acrimonious and some couples decide mutually to get divorced without attributing the responsibility for the breakdown to either party.

Placing blame on one party as the cause of the marital breakdown can make deciding to get a divorce particularly difficult, as Pavinder Khela at Hegarty Solicitors explains.

“A

T present, it is not possible to obtain a ‘no fault divorce’ within the UK. There is only one legal ground for divorce, “the marriage has broken down irretrievably”.

A person can petition for a divorce after one year of marriage and the facts they can rely upon are “adultery” or allegations of “unreasonable behaviour” against a spouse.

The alternative is waiting between two or five years before being able to issue for a divorce based on separation for the same length of time.

“The recent case of Owens v Owens highlights the need for a ‘no fault divorce’.

In this case the court dismissed the wife’s petition, which was based on allegations of unreasonable behaviour against her husband.

Her allegations of unreasonable behaviour were described as “exaggerated” and “of a kind to be expected in a marriage.” This case has now been referred to the Court of Appeal.

“This case demonstrates the need to change our family legal system and establish a divorce that allows for no blame to be attributed to

Flipping’ heck - Rutland property values rise by £40/day This month, our local buy-tolet expert investment adviser, David Crooke, owner of UPP Property Agents, explains how ‘flipping’ property works…

I

NVESTING in property is different from playing the stock markets or depositing your hard-earned cash in the building society. The stock market can give good returns, but unless you are tracking it daily, most people invest in stock market funds making the investment quite hands off and limiting personal involvement or control. With building society bonds, although considered by many as the ‘safe option’, the returns you can achieve are woefully low.

However, with buy-to-let the investment can be more hands on, literally.

It is for this reason why many investors are attracted in the first place.

With a buy-to-let property, you can earn from your investment in two ways. When a property increases in value over time, it is known as

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RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING JULY 2017

either party. If a marriage has broken down, many couples feel they should be allowed to end the marriage without having to make allegations against a spouse or wait two or five years respectively. There is a growing support in the UK for a ‘no fault divorce’.”

• If you have been affected by any of these issues or require further advice, contact Pavinder Khela, an experienced family solicitor at Hegarty Solicitors based in Stamford on 01780 752066 or email Pavinder.Khela@hegarty.co.uk.

‘capital growth’. Capital growth, also known as ‘capital appreciation’, has been strong in recent times, but the value of property does go up as well as down (just like shares do), but the initial purchase price rarely decreases. ‘Rental income’ is what the tenant pays you - hopefully this will also grow over time. If you divide the annual rent into the value (or purchase price) of the property, this is your yield, or annual return.

Over the last five years, an average Rutland property has risen by £74,400 (equivalent to £40.77 a day), taking it to a current average value of £346,000. Typically, yields range from 4.5% to 5% a year and can reach double digit percentages, although to achieve those sorts of returns, the risks are higher.

However, something I haven’t spoken of before is the more specialist area of ‘flipping’ property to make money, which is the process of buying a property, carrying out some minor cosmetics and re-selling it quickly. I have seen several investors recently who have made decent returns from this strategy...

One investor paid £85,000 for a 2-bed terrace on Briggins Walk, Langham in April 2015. After some cosmetic work, it was resold a few months ago (October 2016) for £128,000 … 50.59% return before costs (or compound annual return equivalent of 31.48% AER).

This demonstrates how the property market has not only provided very strong returns for the average investor over the last five years, but how it has permitted a group of motivated buy-to-let landlords and investors to become particularly wealthy.

• Read David’s informative property blog for more: www.rutlandpropertyblog.com

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Our brilliant editor Rachael Bull is leaving us in the summer to take up a full-time role as editor in chief of a content agency in nt maintenance Leicester. So, an opportunity has arisen to edit the magazine.

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L O C A L HIST O R Y

Just who was Lady Cha? Caroline Aston reveals the tale behind the marble statue at Holy Cross Church in Burley on the Hill

H

OLY Cross Church in Burley on the Hill near Oakham is a modest building, completely overshadowed by its magnificent neighbour, Burley House, former home to the Earls of Winchilsea and Nottingham and, more recently, the Hanbury family.

Zealous Victorian restorer John Loughborough Pearson, working there between 1869-70, effectively swept away much of its earlier architectural history but the interior contains one absolute gem - a marble statue of haunting beauty commemorating Lady Charlotte Finch, governess to the children of George III, the king who lost both his mind and America.

The effigy was created by Sir Francis Legatt Chantrey, a man who never had a formal lesson in his art and who had risen from fairly humble Derbyshire roots to become the leading portrait sculptor of Regency Britain.

Marriage to a rich cousin in 1809 had enabled Chantrey to establish a sound business based at his home in London’s Pimlico, ’though he also built two more houses, a studio and even a foundry where large bronzes could be cast.

His works are scattered throughout the country with his imposing equestrian statue of George IV still gazing out across Trafalgar Square.

Chantrey was knighted in 1835 and his name lives on today in the ‘Chantrey Bequest’, a fund originally established to encourage British sculpture and painting by purchasing native works of merit.

But who was Lady Charlotte Finch and how did she come to be governess to George III’s family of 15 children? And why does Chantrey’s expensive and moving statue stand in a quiet corner of Rutland?

Lady Charlotte Fermor was born on Valentine’s Day, 1725, one of a family of 10 children. Her father Thomas Pomfret, 1st Earl of Fermor, and her mother Henrietta were prominent members of the court of King George II and ensured that their daughters were both well travelled and well educated.

Aged 15, Charlotte so impressed Horace Walpole with her grasp of Italian that he wrote that ‘she speaks the purest Tuscan like any Florentine’. She obviously had charm too: career diplomat Lord Granville, who married her sister Sophia (he was 54, she just 23!) in 1744, bequeathed her Sophia’s jewels when his youthful wife died a year after their wedding, greatly annoying his daughters!

In August 1746, Charlotte married the Hon. William Finch, heir to Daniel Finch, 2nd Earl of Nottingham (and, in 1729, 7th Earl of Winchilsea too), the man who built Burley House and, incidentally, the first of at least five generations

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RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING JULY 2017

of Finches to be governors of Oakham School.

William, 34 years her senior, was a widower, a former diplomat and MP, who was ViceChamberlain to the Royal Household. They had five children together but the spotlight fell on Charlotte in 1762 when, aged 37, she was offered the post of Royal Governess the day after the birth of George, Prince of Wales, heir to George III. She was to hold the position for over 30 years, overseeing 14 of the 15 royal children. Today you would describe her as a ‘managing director’, heading up a team of subgovernesses, tutors, nurses and attendants. The nine princes remained under her care until old enough to have tutors while the six princesses were her charge until they reached 21.

Very early on in her career, Lady Charlotte faced enormous personal difficulties: her elderly husband became mentally unstable, suffering from dementia. Rumours circulated that he had thrown her down a staircase.

Fearing for her safety, she obtained a formal separation and set up home with her children in an apartment at St James Palace and a house in Kew. One daughter died in 1765 while William passed away in 1766. A further daughter died in 1767, despite Charlotte’s desperate attempts to nurse her.

Warm, competent and kindly, the royal governess was known to her charges as ‘Lady Cha’ and shared a passion for child-centred education with their mother, Queen Charlotte.

She was something of a pioneer of modern teaching methods using ‘dissected maps’ to teach geography, an early educational example of the jigsaw puzzle. Assisted by a Mrs Colesworth she taught a comprehensive curriculum of arts and science, the princesses travelling each day to her house at Kew. With Mrs Colesworth’s retirement in 1774 Charlotte requested a reduction in her hours, which the Queen refused. Indeed, an INCREASE in hours was proposed - Lady Finch responded by offering her resignation and the matter was dropped!

By 1792 Lady Charlotte Finch was ill and deaf. She struggled on until the November of that year but had to resign, finally retiring in January 1793. Her long service was rewarded by an annual pension of £600 plus income from the South Sea Company and she died on 11 July 1813. Five princes attended her funeral at Ravenstone, Buckinghamshire, where she was placed in a family vault. It was her only son, George, by now 9th Earl of Winchilsea, who commissioned the finest sculptor of the age to create the exquisite monument at Burley, a fitting tribute to a brave, loyal and loving woman who was much missed by all who had known her.

ESSENTIAL LIVING 2017-18

OUT NOW!

Your Guide to the very best the region has to offer Essential Living is our stunning annual publication that covers Stamford, Rutland, Market Harborough, Oundle & Peterborough.

It inspires people to get the most out of the region - to explore new places, to try out new things, to shop locally, to enjoy the best.

You will find it free at high visibility footfall places across the region – hotels, cafés, health clubs, hairdressers, libraries and meeting places.

Or read it online at www.bestlocalliving.co.uk It includes sections on: Shopping Discoveries Fashion, Health & Beauty Home & Garden Food & Drink Eating Out Out & About Kids’ Learning & Activities Education

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