Nene Living October 2016

SPOTLIGHT ON OUNDLE: Where to shop... and why

NENE LIVING C OV E R I N G

P E T E R B O R O U G H , O U N D L E A N D T H E

N E N E VA L L E Y

Off duty, on-trend We treat the Thorpe Hall Hospice team to a fashion and feelgood makeover

OCTOBER 2016 £1.50 10

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INSIDE THIS ISSUE October 2016

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HOUGH we may all hope never to have need of its support and care, I’m sure that everyone who lives locally will be aware of the amazing place that is the Sue Ryder, Thorpe Hall Hospice. I’ve visited several times in recent months and have never failed to be struck by the cheery atmosphere and warm welcome extended by all the dedicated team there. The facilities are second-to-none, and it’s an institution of which we should all feel rightly proud. It was especially wonderful, therefore, to chat to Lady Victoria Leatham about her latest fundraising initiative in aid of the hospice (read her hopes for The Angel Christmas Fair on p13) and then to come up with the idea of offering some of the nursing and medical staff there an end-of-summer fashion and feelgood treat… our front cover and the photographs on p16-20 demonstrate what a good time was had by all!

Elsewhere in this issue there’s plenty to encourage you to get out and about and discover some of our other local gems – the picturesque village of Ashton (p22-24), Wisbech, the so-called Capital of the Fens (p43-44) and the wonderful Oundle shops and businesses that offer such a professional yet always personable service (p27-33). Our motto here at Nene Living is ‘helping you make the most of living locally’… we hope that this issue, with all this and more for you to enjoy, does just that!

Gillian Bendall Editor INCORPORATING

NENE VALLEY LIVING

5 Upfront

39, 40 Food & Drink

Autumn inspirations for you and your home

Tasty recipes, new restaurants to try… and Charters clocks up quarter of a century!

7, 9, 10 News & Notes

Helping you make the most of Nene living

22 A village affair

Meet residents of the pictureperfect village of Ashton

13 Nene People

43 Day out: Wisbech

There’s so much to see and enjoy in the ‘Capital of the Fens’

Lady Victoria Leatham on how an army of angels are helping with a new fundraising event Thorpe Hall Hospice

47 Live & Learn

Fun and informative sessions for all

27 Spotlight on Oundle

Specialist shops and friendly service… all in an historic setting

37 Outdoor Living 16 From the ward to the catwalk

Fashion and feelgood makeover for some of the Sue Ryder hospice staff

Trees that please – and how to take care of them this autumn

37 Health & Beauty

The latest tips on looking good and feeling great

Editor Gillian Bendall neneliving@hotmail.com Write to Nene Living, PO Box 208, Stamford, PE9 9FY www.neneliving.co.uk Advertisement Manager Bridget Steele 01733 707538 bridget.neneliving@ntlworld.com Head of Design Steven Handley steve@locallivingdesign.co.uk Designer Sarah Compton inkdesign@virginmedia.com Advertising Copy Rachel Beecroft 01780 765320 rachel@locallivingdesign.co.uk Publisher Nicholas Rudd-Jones 01780 765571 Email: localliving@btopenworld.com Published by Local Living Ltd, PO Box 208, Stamford, PE9 9FY www.locallivingltd.co.uk Printed by Warners of Bourne

IT’S A WHOLE NEW GET IN TOUCH: neneliving.co.uk TREATMENT EXPERIENCE

51, 52 Out & About

Dates for your October diary

COVER: The Angel Christmas Fair (previewed on p13) will raise vital funds for Peterborough’s Sue Ryder, Thorpe Hall Hospice… but first, we gave some of the staff there an end-of-summer treat Photograph: Elli Dean. www.ellideanphotography.co.uk

SUBSCRIBE TO NENE LIVING For £20 (UK only) you can subscribe to Nene Living for 12 issues. Please send your name, address and a cheque made out to Local Living Ltd to: NVL Subscriptions, PO Box 208, Stamford, PE9 9FY Or you can subscribe online – go to www.bestlocalliving.co.uk

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The sweltering days of summer – and September! – may be behind us,but there’s still plenty of colour and a sense of occasion to carry us into the new season.Celebrate October with this selection of autumn-inspired gifts and accessories for you and your home…

Happy Halloween bunting £15, The Rounded House

Halloween party garland, £10, The Rounded House

Accessorize Shoreditch check scarf £19, Accessorize

Parlane dishwasher, microwave, oven and freezer-safe dish £32.50, Romejos Coral scarf £20, Fat Face

Braintree ladies’ bamboo socks £19.95, Asha’s Attire

Necklace £14.95, Asha’s Attire Hair clips £5, The Rounded House

Le Vian 14ct strawberry gold opal and diamond ring £899, Ernest Jones

Ferne Fairisle scarf £15, Monsoon

Gloves £18, Next

9ct gold opal earrings £39.95, F. Hinds

9ct white gold opal and diamond earrings £250, Ernest Jones

Braintree men’s bamboo briefs £26.95, Asha’s Male Room

Tree of Life necklace £21.95, Asha’s Attire

Recycled cashmere fingerless gloves £24, British wool throw £65, The Rounded House

Roberta Gandolfi leather bag, £69.65, Romejo’s

Pom beanie £17, Accessorize Chevron cable scarf £22, Accessorize

STOCKISTS The Rounded House, 10b West Street, Oundle PE8 4EF. www.theroundedhouse.com Asha’s Attire & Asha’s Male Room, The Bazaar, West Street, Oundle PE8 4EJ. www.ashas.net Romejos, 14 Market Place, Oundle PE8 4BQ. www.romejos.co.uk Accessorize, Ernest Jones, F. Hinds, Fat Face, Monsoon and Next – all Queensgate, Peterborough. www.queensgate-shopping.co.uk NENE LIVING OCTOBER 2016

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NEWS & NOTES Helping you make the most of Nene living

Your chance to have an Impact on healthcare

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OCAL people are being invited to help shape the future of hospice care in the region, as the Thorpe Hall Hospice in Longthorpe, Peterborough introduces a user group to ensure the views of patients, carers and the community are heard.

‘Impact’ will become a channel of two-way communication between users of the Sue Ryder hospice and its management team. The group will ensure the views of patients and their families are taken into consideration and fed into plans for the development of services.

Hospice Director Jane Petit says: “As a national charity Sue Ryder has a Board of Trustees but Impact will be a local group working specifically at Thorpe Hall.

We will be looking to the group to provide us with a patient and carer perspective on our services and plans.”

As well as attending regular monthly meetings, members of Impact may also be asked to get involved in the appointment of senior staff, attendance at internal hospice meetings and ongoing training.

A fact-finding meeting is being held at Thorpe Hall Hospice on October 13 at 11am. If you’re interested, go along, or email thorpehall@sueryder.org.

• A new fundraising event for Thorpe Hall Hospice is previewed on p13 of this issue

Making his mark with a successful return to Oundle, plumber James Williams is now expanding his business by seeking a locally-based apprentice. James first established JW Plumbers six years ago in the Cotswolds – he says he enjoyed being part of the local community in that area, but as he grew up in Barnwell and his wife is from Oundle, a return to the Nene region ‘was inevitable’. Now he’s offering a full range of services, from repairs to installations, all with the safeguard for customers of being Gas Safe and OFTEC-registered. He’s also listed on www.checkatrade.com.

• For information on the apprenticeship opportunity, or to learn more about the services offered, call 07817 553935, or email james@jw-plumbers.co.uk. www.jw-plumbers.co.uk

City’s pupils get a ‘green’ education

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ID you know that ninety-seven per cent of schools in Peterborough now deliver environmental education – one of the highest levels of uptake in the whole of the UK? The figure is all thanks to local charity Peterborough Environment City Trust (PECT), which won an international Green Apple award for its bespoke Peterborough Eco Framework which supports the delivery of environmental education in local schools and helps them to reduce their carbon footprint.

PECT’s Environmental Education Manager Jill Foster says: “PECT did a unique thing when it decided to launch a bespoke Eco Framework for the city’s schools.

We wanted to ensure environmental activity remained accessible to everyone. It also felt preferable to refer to local situations and resources, in order to encourage long-term behaviour change among students.”

As part of the new framework, schools can gain accreditation in each of the 10 Environment Capital themes. Certificates are awarded for each theme, and when a school has achieved five themes the school can proudly fly the Peterborough Eco Framework flag, displaying its environmental status and the achievements of its students.

Since the project launched at the end of 2015, 21 certificates have been awarded to schools for their work across the 10 different themes, and one school – Woodston Primary, pictured above – has just become the first to receive the Peterborough Eco Education Flag, after receiving certificates in five of the themes.

There’s local support on offer if you’re taking part in this year’s ‘Stoptober’ challenge. Each year thousands quit smoking with the campaign – which starts on 1 October – by accessing a range of free support including packs, emails, texts and an app – all providing information, advice and daily tips to help through the month. Peterborough’s own Stoptober caravan will be outside Barclays Bank, Lincoln Road on 28 and 29 September, and outside the Town Hall on Bridge Street on 30 September and 1 October. Peterborough City Council is planning other events at various locations across the city.

Details of these are available at www.healthypeterborough.org.uk

¶ NENE LIVING OCTOBER 2016

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NEWS & NOTES Four fundraising challenges… for those who dare

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MCA Cambridgeshire & Peterborough is challenging Nene residents to take on various challenges to raise funds to support young people across the region.

The YMCA provides a variety of projects to ensure young people have the opportunity to thrive and contribute positively to their communities. And now it’s asking you to run, cycle, trek, swim, jump, row or find out the reality of sleeping rough for the night – all to raise funds for the YMCA’s vital work.

Events coming up include: • Dragon Boating – October 1 A fun-filled, adrenaline-pumping watersports activity that gives teams a great fundraising opportunity. YMCA Cambridgeshire & Peterborough has joined forces with Dragon Boat Events, professional dragon boat event organisers, to hold a charity event at Grafham Water.

Fifteen teams can sign up for this exciting experience to raise funds for the YMCA’s schools mental health counselling and other vital support programmes.

• Skydiving – October 15 Have you ever imagined standing at the edge of a doorway in an aircraft flying at 10,000 feet, the noise of the engines and the wind ringing in your ears, with only the outline of distant fields below? Now is your chance to take part in the ultimate adrenaline experience and raise funds for the YMCA – 20 places are available for a skydiving charity event at Sibson Airfield, Cambridgeshire.

• Sleep Easy 2016 – November 18 Fancy spending a Friday night under the stars for a unique fundraising experience? Sleep Easy is a YMCA England fundraising initiative that aims to help change the lives of young people. Since the event began in 2010, almost £1 million has been raised by hundreds of people who choose to sleep rough for just one night in various locations across the UK. The aim is simple: spend a night sleeping rough, raising money to help change the lives of vulnerable young people. Join this challenge in Peterborough city centre and all the money you raise goes directly to your local YMCA. • London Marathon 2017 – April 23 2017 If running is more your thing, then be part of the greatest marathon in the world and join Team YMCA for 2017’s London Marathon.

• To find out more on any of these charity challenges, contact Edite Kouame on 01733 373188 or email edite.kouame@theymca.org.uk

A N I M A L A D V O C AT E S

Start now on fireworks fear...

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VERY year, Wood Green Animal Shelters receives an increasing number of calls for advice from owners wanting to protect their pets from the fear associated with fireworks. The calls reinforce what research tells us: 60 per cent of pets, especially dogs, often become stressed and fearful when fireworks go off.

If your dog is worried when he hears fireworks, there are things you can do well in advance of firework night that will make managing him much easier when the firework season arrives.

There are some great recordings of fireworks that are useful in the months and weeks before fireworks. To begin with play these very quietly while your dog is eating, playing or having fun learning with reward-based training. The volume needs to be low enough that he is aware of the noise, but it doesn’t distract his eating play or learning – if it does distract him, reduce the volume until he is settled and engaging. Over a few weeks, and providing he is not showing any anxiety, you can raise the volume, play at different times and change to another firework tape.

Dogs are very clever – if you only use one sound tape they will become desensitised to that tape, but other firework recordings will help their learning.

DAP (dog appeasing pheromone) is also well worth investing in – it’s most effective if you start using it a week before an event that may stress or unsettle your pet.

If he likes his toys, fun games in the evening when you expect fireworks to start will prep him for what you can do on the big night. If toys aren’t his thing, fun learning could be just as good. All this helps you have more success managing him when there are real fireworks.

Wood Green The Animals Charity offers a low-fee advice service for dogs and cats. If you would like behaviour or training advice for your pet call 01480 830014 ext 1281

Help is at hand for your garden

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VER dreamt of the perfect lawn but not sure where to start? Joe’s Lawn Care guarantees to turn your weed infested and tired-looking grass into a lawn you can be proud of.

Through a wide range of seasonal treatment programmes – there’s a core focus on lawn care, with special attention paid to the treatment of weeds, moss, pests and diseases – the business can ensure your lawn looks greener, thicker and weed-free all year round.

Joe’s can also tackle all outdoor garden surfaces including decking, driveways, pathways and patios throughout the seasons – with prices starting from as little as £15.

With over 30 years’ experience in the garden, Joe’s is a local independent lawn care expert offering a helping hand all year round. Look out for vehicles in your area or call to arrange a free lawn analysis.

• 01832 599012. www.joeslawncare.co.uk NENE LIVING OCTOBER 2016

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NEWS & NOTES Accessing your Personal Tax Account Kerry Hilliard of Stephenson Smart Chartered Accountants explains what the new online service offers individuals…

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OR some time HMRC has offered an online tax account for businesses. More recently they have created the Personal Tax Account, making it easier for individuals to access and control their HMRC record at any time from their computer, tablet or smart phone. Individuals are able to use the tax account to: • Check income tax estimates and tax codes • Advise HMRC about changes affecting company cars • Claim tax deductible work expenses or a tax refund • Renew tax credits • Advise HMRC of changes in address More services will be added in the future and HMRC are aiming to allow all taxpayers to fully interact with them digitally by 2020. The account will allow people to pay their taxes in ways that suit them – for example, by direct debit. It will also be possible to see how their tax liabilities are calculated and to authorise agents to manage their account if they wish.

• For more information on what the Personal Tax Account might mean to you, contact Stephenson Smart on 01733 343275 or visit www.stephensonsmart.com

New to Thrapston, The Primrose Gallery has relocated after 16 successful years in Northampton where the business established a nationwide reputation for selling fine art and craft, as well as offering high quality picture framing and art restoration.

Owner Neil Duguid is a former Director of The Fine Art Trade Guild, and still sits on its International ‘Framing Committee’. At The Primrose Gallery he features the work of a mix of local artists alongside that of national and internationally-recognised talents, and says: “There is something for all tastes and budgets, as gifts, or of interest to collectors.”

The gallery is currently showing

work by a collection of local artists as part of the Northamptonshire Open Studios event, and through October it will feature work by the prizewinners from the Alfred East gallery in a ‘Bestof-the-Best’ show. Also in the High Street gallery now are paintings from Ken Howard OBE RA, Martin Taylor and Stephen Hawkins, alongside many others, with prices for original works from £50.

Crafts featured are from a number of original makers, and range from gifts such as kitchenware from Rupert Blamire, to collectable vases by ceramic artists including Ashraf Hanna.

• 01832 730022. www.primrosegallery.co.uk

Fun run

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HIS month ‘the most colourful 5k run ever’ arrives in Peterborough. The Tour of Colour fun run takes place at Ferry Meadows on October 29. Participants start with a white T-shirt which turns into a work of art as they run or walk through five zones where they’re covered in colour, and once over the finish line there’s a huge after-party with music, food and a bar.

Adult entry fees are £25, under-16s £15 and there’ll be an on-site parking charge of £10.

• Enter now or find out more at www.tourofcolour. com

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NENE LIVING OCTOBER 2016

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NENE PEOPLE

LadyVictoria Leatham … on how an army of angels will help with a new fund-raising event for Peterborough’s Thorpe Hall Hospice

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HIS December, visitors to Thorpe Hall Hospice in Peterborough will be welcomed by brilliantly-lit wicker angels, representing the hard work of its nurses and heralding the start of the Angel Christmas Fair, a new fund-raising event founded by Lady Victoria Leatham of Burghley House fame.

The two-day Fair will be held at Thorpe Hall on 3 and 4 December, with more than 50 stalls already confirmed and all proceeds going to Sue Ryder, which provides palliative care at the centre.

Lady Victoria’s involvement with Thorpe Hall goes back a long way. “When Sue Ryder first took over the building, she asked me what was I going to do for her hospice... you didn’t fail to act when she asked something of you,” she explained. “I began in a small way to be involved, particularly with the marvellous ladies’ lunch club which makes regular donations to help maintain the work. Also, as in all families, we have an ongoing exposure to those suffering with cancer, and having worked as a patient’s radio requests co-ordinator at the Royal Marsden when I was 18 and living in London, it seemed natural to try to help with the work at Thorpe Hall.”

A retail background and the knowledge that a previously successful Christmas Fair at Irnham Hall near Grantham was to be held no more gave Lady Victoria her inspiration for the Thorpe Hall event.

She explained: “By nature a ‘seller’, I coowned a small knitwear and artisan wool business for five years in Northumberland, then when we moved south and I took over the running of Burghley House I started an interiors and decorative catalogue called Ancestral Collections where we sold replicas of antiques.

This was influenced by the 25 years I spent

“Every penny earned will go to Sue Ryder – they have just lost a large proportion of their funding from the local health authorities for their Hospice At Home service and they are in great need right now” working with Sotheby’s in London, Cambridge and Stamford. I sold our items at the NEC and in America and I know a lot about the way the amazing retail buyers influence the way in which we live – the colours of a myriad objects and fabrics on show at Birmingham in February will arrive in our shops by March and last through the year!

“The realisation that the long-running event at Irnham Hall had ceased left a gap in the market for another similar offering for discerning shoppers.

“The goal of the fair is simple: we want to

create an opportunity to buy and sell which will result in as much money as possible coming to the hospice to help fund exceptional care for those nearing the end of their lives. Every penny earned will go to Sue Ryder – they have just lost a large proportion of their funding from the local health authorities for their Hospice At Home service and they are in great need right now.”

The running of the fair involves a tight core of Lady Victoria’s own ‘angels’… ladies with specialist skills such as management of retailers, catering, publicity and media, plus logistics such as car parking and liaison with Thorpe Hall… “and the help of countless volunteers to help the stallholders have a good time – if they don’t, we will not have a happy fair!” she explained.

Business prowess and her legendary charm – which is, perhaps, not so unlike that of the late Sue Ryder! – have helped Lady Victoria pull everything together thus far, and now she’s focusing her powers of persuasion on gaining further financial support. She explained: “I saw these superb six foot wickerwork angels at the Birmingham Spring Fair and they are now for sale to sponsors! We are placing them, lit, on either side of the drive up to Thorpe Hall for the duration of the fair, with the sponsors’ names prominently displayed for everybody to see when arriving and leaving. After the fair, sponsors can take their angels away... to use as a Christmas decoration, or donate them to their church or child’s school.”

Lady Victoria said: “This is becoming a proper community event. It is a chance not just for Peterborough people and those from surrounding counties to show support for our fantastic local hospice, but also to have fun and enjoy some unbeatable shopping in aid of a great cause.”

SPONSOR AN ANGEL Local businesses which sponsor the wicker angels will be invited to a Champagne Reception on 2 December from 6pm so they can see their name in lights alongside their sponsored angel. After the event, they’ll be able to move the angels to a location of their choice for promotional or personal use.

The event has already gained support from lead sponsors Remark, Peterborough City Council, Waitrose, John Lewis and sponsors of the first angel, The George Hotel in Stamford.

Additional tickets to the Champagne Reception – where you will be able to sip on Champagne donated by Hambleton Hall and sample food made by talented chef Bevan Fleming from Ludlow – are available at £25 per person and are available to anyone who would like a preview of the crafts, foods and gifts on offer. The fair will then open to everyone on 3 and 4 December from 10am-4pm. Entry costs £5 per person.

• For more information, to sponsor an angel or to buy tickets to the Champagne Reception, email victoria.leatham@me.com before 1 December.

NENE LIVING OCTOBER 2016

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FASHION

From the ward to the catwalk

The Angel Christmas Fair will raise vital funds to support the work of Peterborough’s Sue Ryder, Thorpe Hall Hospice. There simply aren’t enough words to properly pay tribute to the care and dedication offered by the fabulous team there… but to say‘thankyou’on behalf of Nene Living readers we asked stylist Sally Stillingfleet to assemble her own group of fashion and feelgood experts and offer some of the staff an end-of-summer treat PHOTOGRAPHY: ELLI DEAN Caroline wears Esprit denim shirt £40, Mac jeans £100, Esprit tan boots £70, scarf £20, all Attic

Susan wears silk shirt £125 and rust cardigan £85, scarf £25 by Nice Things, plus Mac jeans £100, Esprit tan boots £70, all Attic

Susan Shackleton, Inpatients Unit Manager A keen runner and Stamford resident, Susan assesses care for new patients and has worked at Thorpe Hall for 11 years. Susan loved the rich colours and prints from Nice Things and was keen to try new shapes and styles.

Her gamine short-cropped hair was blow-dried and styled by Francesca for added volume and texture.

S

ALLY has worked for Nene Living and its sister publications for many years, choosing themes, models, clothes and accessories for numerous fashion features. She knows her stuff, and she knows people, so when she says: “These literally are one of the most dedicated and lovely group of women I have come across,” you know they must be very special! She continues: “Thorpe Hall are so lucky to have these strong women as part of a bigger team. They are an inspiration – to all the patients they care for and their families, and the Peterborough area is so lucky to have this special place. Although the end

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NENE LIVING OCTOBER 2016

Dr Caroline Anson Caroline previously worked in the Manchester area as a GP before moving into palliative care. A dedicated, highly regarded doctor she looks great in the outfits she chose and said they were ‘just her!’

Ever-practical and a mum to two young daughters, she has little time to be pampered. Her naturally curly hair was carefully softened with much larger curls and a beautiful make-up by Laura complemented her autumnal outfits.

journey is inevitable, it is filled with compassion, care and commitment, smiles and laughter and I am sure lovely memories are made in fantastic surroundings for everyone affected.

“These women put themselves last, so they enjoyed the chance to have some pampering and jumped at the opportunity to raise awareness for the Angel Christmas Fair, hoping to raise as much money possible.

Spending so much time finding outfits they liked and felt comfortable in was a pleasure, a privilege and the photoshoot itself was a day I won’t forget.”

Susan wears Silk shirt £125 and rust cardigan £85, scarf £25, all Nice Things. Mac jeans £100, Esprit tan boots £70, all Attic. Caroline wears Esprit denim shirt £40, Mac jeans £100, Esprit tan boots £70, scarf £20, all Attic

Susan wears Nice Things shirt £45 and Esprit blue jeans £45; Sally wears Ted Baker navy dress £159, John Lewis; Caroline wears Nice Things pansy print dress £70, Attic

Sally Allen, Senior Nursing Assistant, Hospice at Home Sally has two children and a love for a stripy top and jeans! They became her staples but in her bid to be more feminine, she experienced the talents of Lorraine, a Personal Stylist at John Lewis. Lorraine assessed Sally’s shape and made some bold suggestions. Sally loved the curvier silhouette created by choosing the right shapes. She was transformed with lovely natural make-up to go with plum and navy and once her hair was kept long and curly she soon go into her modelling role!

Fran Goodwin, Staff Nurse Fran has been at Thorpe Hall for two years, having previously worked in Nottingham. She loves her new role as a proud mum and lives near Wisbech.

Karen, from Womenswear at John Lewis, helped source dresses for Fran, who has a strong sense of how she likes to look. She loved the way Rebecca braided her hair and even managed to retain the style for work the next day on the ward!

Sally wears Oasis burgundy dress £55, John Lewis and Geox ankle boots, £125 Marcia May Shoes

Fran wears blue Studio 8 dress £89, John Lewis and Lotus navy shoes £49.95, Marcia May Shoes

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FASHION

Fern wears pleated skirt £105 with Pepe T-shirt £45 and faux leather biker jacket, £150 and Kendall and Kylie black boots £160, all Energy

Fern Dettmer, Ward Sister Fern is from Stamford and has a five-year-old son. She really enjoyed the transformation and was great fun on the day. She felt she had lost her way with her look, so I asked Freya, part of the Energy team, to coax Fern out of her comfort zone, re-invigorate her love for fashion and show her how to mix it up a bit. She was transformed into ‘trendy’ and loved her new look. Her recently cropped hair was curled to complement the edgier outfits.

From the ward to the catwalk

Dani wears Glamorous silky cami £22 and tutu £45 with Kendall and Kylie pixie boots £150, all Energy

Dani Friebel, Nursing Assistant Dani lives in Peterborough and originally came from Germany. Naturally striking, she’s also a yoga instructor and massage therapist and really took to her modelling role! She is about to embark on a Nursing Degree course, having worked at Thorpe Hall for four years.

Laura chose a smoky eye and more of a glamorous look for Dani. She has a strong sense of style and we all loved her in the Energy tutu!

Dani in French Connection dress £130, with Kendall and Kylie Pixie boots, £150, Energy

From left: Caroline; Sally; Fern in French Connection dress £72, Energy; Fran in Chesca dress £149, John Lewis; Laura; Susan in Nice Things green tunic £65, Attic; and Dani in French Connection dress, as above Laura wears teal Esprit Collection dress £60, Attic, with Hogel nude court shoes £110, Marcia May Shoes

Dr Laura Mitchell Laura is expecting her first baby and thought I wouldn’t be able to find a dress for a forthcoming wedding which would suit her romantic style or her bump. Laura came to Thorpe Hall after a friend told her there was a vacancy for another doctor… her initial two months became six months and she discovered palliative care was a field she cared deeply about. After trying on lots of dresses in Arch she plumped for the Esprit dress from Attic in a lovely teal colour. Francesca did a fantastic sophisticated ‘up do’ for Laura, to accentuate her face and the lovely natural make-up.

¶ NENE LIVING OCTOBER 2016

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FASHION

From the ward to the catwalk MEET OUR TEAM…

L

AURA Thomson-Dunne is a talented make-up artist who is pursuing her dream of working on a mobile basis. She offers a full range of beauty treatments using all the very best cruelty-free and organic brands – everything is of the highest performance level with quality ingredients and an amazing finish.

For our seven special models she pulled out all the stops to create beautiful individual looks; Laura is unflappable and pays great attention to detail! She is available for weddings and a whole range of beauty treatments and for Nene Living readers Laura is offering 10 per cent off the first treatment booked – quote ref: NLBEAUTY10 • Beauty by Laura Thomson-Dunne.

07399 591343. www.ltdbeauty.co.uk

M

ANY thanks to Francesca and Rebecca from Stamford’s Francesca Alexander salon, who created up-to-the-minute hairstyles for all our models which matched their outfits and different autumnal looks. We were all impressed with the Bumble and Bumble product range - it really does perform! Meet the whole team and enjoy a 20 per cent discount on your first service on either hair or beauty treatments at the salon.

• 7 Ironmonger Street, Stamford. 01780 482888. www.francescaalexander.co.uk STOCKISTS Attic, 33 St Mary’s St, Stamford. 01780 766667 Energy, Ironmonger St, Stamford.

01780 765633 Marcia May Shoes, 41 St. Mary’s St, Stamford.

01780 766608 John Lewis, Queensgate Centre, Peterborough. 01733 344644 Elli Dean Photography, 07932 055548. www.ellideanphotography.co.uk

N

INA Heaton kindly offered to help our models relax and experience a mini treatment in her ‘pop-up therapy zone’. The models found the Indian head massage with reiki soothing and calming, and it was lovely to have Nina’s energy on the day of the photoshoot.

Nina’s background is in holistic therapies and she helps people to resolve stress, gain clarity, increase energy levels and enhance well-being. She is a certified Matrix Energetics Practitioner, certified Human Software Engineer Coach (resolving emotions and feelings), Reiki practitioner and Master and certified NLP Practitioner.

Nina runs workshops and sessions for groups based on resolving stress, well-being and personal development – feel free to contact her to arrange a workshop, she is based in the Peterborough area. “All of these areas are about helping people to experience their true potential, whether it be simply how to relax or to transforming stuck areas in their life and expand personal development… it’s about creating a more joyful life!”

• 01733 236476. www.ninaheaton.co.uk

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NENE LIVING OCTOBER 2016

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A village affair Ashton is a unique private estate which lies two miles east of Oundle.Writer Lucy Banwell and photographer Elli Deane met some of the residents of this picture-perfect village

I HAVE THE BEST COMMUTE IN THE WORLD! Ian Campbell, 44, Publican, The Chequered Skipper

M

W

ITH its charming thatched cottages, village green and wild peacocks roaming the estate, Ashton is undoubtedly one of Northamptonshire’s prettiest villages. Built in 1900 by the Rothschild family, Ashton was designed as a ‘model village’, bringing together a variety of farm buildings, estate workers’ cottages and some larger houses.

Following the recent sale of more than 30 properties on the estate, there is a sense of old meets new as Ashton’s charming Edwardian cottages welcome their new residents. The heritage of the Rothschild family – the famous banking dynasty – is in evidence not only in Ashton’s buildings but also in the butterfly collections which adorn the walls of the Chequered Skipper pub. The late Dame Miriam Rothschild was a famous naturalist with a passion for collecting flora and fauna.

Life in Ashton has a unique, old-fashioned charm, never better witnessed than on a summer’s day when residents old and new spill out of the pub onto the sunny green as they revel in the beauty of their unique piece of Northamptonshire.

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Y brother and I took over the pub 19 years ago when we were both in our early twenties.

Although we had both worked in the pub trade before we still had a lot to learn so we were really grateful to Miriam Rothschild for the opportunity she gave us.

“Things have really evolved in the time we’ve had the pub. We’ve gone from having tablecloths and an a la carte menu to being much more informal and family-friendly. Hopefully we’ve built up a good reputation and people are confident they’re going to get a good meal when they come here. We hold up to 25 weddings a year which is hard work but it makes it all worthwhile when I get feedback from a bride telling me how amazing her big day was.

“Everyone thinks the peacocks look so pretty, but they poo everywhere! There used to be only about a dozen of them but we’re up to about 30 now, which is far too many.

The pub is definitely the focal point of the village.

It’s a great leveller because we get a real mix of people coming here. Parish events are often held here on the green which is a great way to bring the community together.

“I think the typical Ashton resident shares the view that Ashton is a very special place. The architecture speaks for itself - the symmetry of the cottages and the Rothschild blue [the turquoise colour of the front doors]. It takes my breath away every time I drive up the lane to the estate from my home in Polebrook. It’s the best commute in the world!”

Ian Campbell, chef patron of The Chequered Skipper pub

Above and below: Luxury holiday accommodation at The Lady Rothschild Dairy. Photos: John Holmes Photography

ASHTON IS A COUNTRY OASIS Carol Maibaum, 46, Head of Tourism

Carol Maibaum, Head of Tourism, has worked for the Ashton Estate for nine years

O

NE of the things I love most about working here is the variety of my job. I deal with so many different types of people. Since the estate recently sold off a lot of its properties, we’ve had an influx of new residents which has been brilliant for the village. There’s a great sense of community here. Because it’s a private estate everyone looks out for each other. I think it’s rare in this day and age, that sense of neighbourliness.

My home is an apartment within Ashton Wold House and it’s literally in the middle of a wood. It’s an oasis and you feel as though you’re miles away from places like Peterborough and Corby even though it’s really no distance. In the morning we often see deer strolling past and I love hearing the owls at night. The late Dame Miriam Rothschild, the mother of Dr Charles Lane who now owns the majority of the estate, was a keen naturalist so her passion lives on in the abundance of wildlife here.

“Charles is committed to conserving Ashton’s heritage. He takes great care regarding the aesthetics of the buildings and is always keen to preserve original features. Interior design is a passion of mine so it’s been wonderful to be involved with the refurbishment of properties on the estate – particularly our luxury holiday lets at The Lady Rothschild Dairy (www.ashtonestatecountryholidays.co.uk).

“When the residential properties went up for sale there was huge demand because it was such a unique opportunity. The estate offers idyllic country living and it’s a great place to raise children. We’ve got such a variety of people living here now – from young families to a BAFTA-winning composer! It’s that diversity which makes Ashton such an amazing place to live.”

Many of the properties in Ashton have a shepherd’s hut in the garden painted in regulation ‘Rothschild blue’

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A village affair

Ashton’s peacock population is growing...

Photos: Annie Welton Photography

I KNOW EVERY INCH OF THIS ESTATE Kenny Head, 66, Farm worker

Kenny Head has worked on the farm at Ashton for almost 44 years

I

’VE worked on the Ashton Estate for nearly 44 years and I know it like the back of my hand.

People always say, ‘Go and see Kenny’ if they want to know something about the land.

“All my family have worked on the estate. My grandfather worked here and my father was a horseman here. I used to work with the dairy herd myself years ago but all the animals have gone now. It’s just wheat and oilseed rape crops.

“The biggest change I’ve seen over the years is that we now have more machinery and less workers. When I first started there were about half a dozen of us but there’s not many of us left now – most of them have died I’ve been here so long!

“I had a cottage on the green for many years and brought my children up there. It was a nice place to raise the kids because they were safely out of the way of nasty things like drugs.

I think they would say they had a good childhood. I felt like I barely saw them because it was work, work, work all the time. But I love my job. I always have.

“I want to keep busy and keep working for as long as I can. If you think you’re old, then you are old, but work keeps me young and fit. I’d like to keep going until I’ve completed 50 years here. That would be a good milestone.”

WE FOUND OUR DREAM HOME Emme Richards, 34, Full-time mum

M

Emme and Mark Richards with their baby Benjamin. The couple moved out of London to start a new life in the country

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NENE LIVING OCTOBER 2016

Y husband, Mark, and I fell in love with this house as soon as we saw it. Our cottage is a proper chocolate box thatch, and the village is so beautiful. We knew immediately it was the right house for us and the perfect place to raise a family.

“It was important to us to move to somewhere in the country with a real sense of community. We actually found ourselves in a very unique situation because the selling off of so many properties at once has allowed the new residents to create their own community. We’ve had such a warm welcome from the locals, but at the same time there is a group of us starting new lives here, making new memories and breathing new life into the village.

“Mark and I got married on the estate last year and then our baby Benjamin arrived. Everyone was so kind – there were cards, presents and well wishes from the neighbours. It was such a contrast to life in London where we lived in an apartment in the City.

“We really like the peacocks that wander around.

Benjamin, who’s 10 months old, loves their pretty colours. Sometimes they come and tap the back door when they’re hungry and we give them a few scraps.

“I have to pinch myself, waking up here every morning. We just feel so lucky.”

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SPOTLIGHT ON OUNDLE Delightful specialist shops thrive in a setting of centuries-old,warm stone buildings, among mullioned windows and medieval gables. Their owners are passionate about their subjects and customers enjoy the personal and friendly service they receive, as Sue Dobson discovered

MARKET PLACE

Watched over by the lovely old Church of St Peter, its landmark spire the tallest in the county, the Market Place is at the heart of Oundle.

THE OUNDLE BOOKSHOP

Light and airy, with wellordered shelves, a dedicated section for bestsellers and an ever-growing one for local authors, this is a delight for browsing book-lovers, young and old. There’s a good selection of unusual greetings cards and original gifts, too. “In addition to over 3,000 titles in stock, there are a further 180,000 available for next day ordering,” says owner Joanna Patterson-Gordon. As the sign at the desk says: ‘Welcome to a Real Bookshop’!

• 13 Market Place, PE8 4BA. 01832 273523. Open Monday to Saturday 9am-5pm. www.colemans-online.co.uk/oundlebookshop.html

THE TAILORS SHOP

Les and Gerry work wonders giving clothes a new lease of life and offering bespoke tailoring for men and women. They’ll restore vintage clothing, revamp, reline and remake dated outfits and do myriad alterations. “I like fixing stuff,” says Les, a Master Tailor, and that includes leather work – from replacing a zip in a handbag to mending a bridle and restoring upholstery for classic cars. With his background in the Grenadier Guards, Les Starks has specialist skills in military uniform repairs and offers a medal service.

• 15 Market Place, PE8 4BA. 01832 270073. Open Tuesday, Thursday, Friday 10am-5pm, Saturday 10am-2pm.

NENE LIVING OCTOBER 2016

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SPOTLIGHT ON OUNDLE

over time. They offer a wide range of good quality frames, specialist contact lenses and prescription sunglasses, and having an on-site laboratory means a fast and efficient spectacle service.

• 5 Market Place, PE8 4BA. 01832 272974.

Open Monday to Friday 9am-5.30pm (Tuesday until 7pm), Saturday 9am-5pm. www.judithday.co.uk

MARKET PLACE STU-POTS

The go-to shop for all sorts of home, garden, electrical and DIY essentials. It’s a dream destination for cooks, with everything for baking and cake decorating, fruit bottling, marmalade and jam making, slicing, dicing, in-oven and top of stove cooking. Want to get a household key cut or a jaded knife sharpened? Looking for a Kilner jar with a tap for your sloe gin, a descaler for your coffee machine, a hard to find light bulb, a mouse repellent, a Slyde flashlight torch?

Owner Stuart Blow has an encyclopaedic knowledge of the extraordinary array of goods in stock.

• 36 Market Place, PE8 4BE. 01832 275414. Open Monday-Saturday 9am-5pm. www.stu-pots.com

vegetables plus some tasty baguettes for lunch on the go.

• 22 Market Place, PE8 4BQ. 01832 273503. Open Monday 6am-4pm, Tuesday 7.30am-5pm, Wednesday 7.30am-4pm, Thursday 7am-5pm, Saturday 6am-4pm. www.trendalls-butchers.co.uk

OUNDLE IN STITCHES

In a welcoming world of colour, Natalie Moore happily offers advice alongside her extensive range of knitting and crochet patterns; yarns, buttons and braids; patchwork and quilting materials; and embroidery, tapestry and needlepoint kits, including starter kits for children. There’s everything here to satisfy the dedicated crafter and enthuse the beginner.

• 6 Crown Court, PE8 4BQ. 01832 274433.

Open Monday to Friday (except Wednesday) 9am-5pm, Saturday 9.30am-4.30pm. www.oundleinstitches.co.uk

DIVERSITY BOUTIQUE

Nicola Charles sells ‘an eclectic mix of men’s and women’s clothing and accessories built around fashion trends’, which, as a former model, she knows all about. Popular labels include Jack Wills, Animal, Superdry, Versace, Juicy Couture and evening wear by Ivanka Trump. She also stocks Coach and Gola bags, scarves, cushions and her own hand-made silver jewellery.

• 2a St Osyth’s Lane, PE8 4BG. 07956 983785. Open Tuesday and Thursday 9am4pm, Wednesday 8.30am-2.30pm, Friday 9am-5pm, Saturday 8.30am-4pm. www.diversityoundle.com

TRENDALLS BUTCHERS

Alongside the best cuts of free-range beef, lamb and pork you’ll find game in season, a dozen varieties of pork sausages made daily on the premises, their own dry cured bacon, some tempting ready meals and a deli section packed with home-cooked pies, pasties and cold meats. There’s a good selection of British and Continental cheeses, interesting chutneys, pickles and sauces, locally grown fruit and

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NENE LIVING OCTOBER 2016

ROMEJO’S

Maggie Meigh’s flair for creating ambience is revealed in the eye-catching displays of perfect gifts, from Italian leather bags, soft wool throws and silk scarves to delicate silver jewellery, pretty glass, unusual photo frames and gorgeous Côte Noire scented candles. Look too for vases, lampshades, silk flowers, smart gifts for men and placemats with the popular ‘London, New York, Paris, Oundle’ design.

• 14 Market Place, PE8 4BQ. 01832 272165.

Open Monday to Friday 9am-5.30pm, Saturday 9am-5pm. www.romejos.co.uk

JUDITH DAY OPTOMETRIST

You can be sure your eyesight is in good hands at this independent opticians where the eye test can include the use of a retinal camera so changes in your eyes can be compared

AMPS FINE WINES

Since 1901 this family-owned wine merchant has been combining a passion for wines of character from small producers all over the world with personal attention and knowledgeable service. “We sell wines we’ve tasted and like; often we know the makers and have visited their vineyards,” says shop manager (and whisky guru) Alan Byham, adding “All the growers and producers are as passionate about wine as we are!”

• Amps Fine Wines, 6 Market Place, PE8 4BQ. 01832 273502. Open Monday to Friday 9am-6pm, Saturday 9am-5.30pm. www.ampsfinewines.co.uk

COTTONS

Anne Cotton offers “pretty much every shoe for every age group” in the shop that her greatgrandfather opened in 1871. Generations of families have been coming here for their shoes and the children’s department, which stocks Start-rite and Clarks, Geox and Ricosta among others, is always busy. Popular women’s shoe brands include Paul Green and Gabor, while men’s classics include Barker and Loake. Look for stylish Italian leather handbags, colourful socks and “everything foot related, including lots of wellies!”

• 7 Market Place, PE8 4BA. 01832 272534.

Open Monday to Saturday 8.45am-5pm. www.cottons-oundle.com

WHITE VANILLA

Eunha favours strong colours and eye-catching patterns and her reasonably priced, easy to wear styles suit women of all ages. She stocks clothes by Adini, Seasalt, Sahara, Masai and Capri Clothing, also scarves, jewellery and accessories. Eunha is launching her own label for spring/summer next year and her designs, many in fabrics from her native South Korea, have already been snapped up by shops nationwide.

• 1 Market Place, PE8 4BA. 01832 274107.

Open Monday to Saturday 9.30am-5pm. www.whitevanilla.co.uk

OUNDLE TRAVEL

Wherever you want to go in the world, this independent travel agency can tailor a holiday to suit your interests, from a weekend city break to a bespoke tailor-made itinerary.

• Corner of Market Place and New Street, PE8 4EA. 01832 273600. Open Monday to Friday 8.45am-5.30pm, Saturday 8.45am1pm. www.oundletravel.co.uk

CRACKERS

For 28 years, Judy Hibbins has been pleasing customers with her eclectic choice of presents.

Among the host of delightful gifts for children are Jellycat friends and birthday fairies, while for grown-ups there’s Sophie Allport china, Montezuma chocolate and collectables from East of India.

• 3 New Street, PE8 4EA. 01832 274467.

Open Monday to Saturday 9am-5pm.

Where to eat and drink THE COFFEE TAVERN

A traditional café with home-cooked meals and window seats for people-watching.

34 Market Place, PE8 4BE. 01832 272524.

Open Monday to Saturday 8.30am-6pm, Sunday 9am-6pm.

CAFÉ BAR AT NO 4

Go for home-made cakes and scones, breakfast or lunch in this licensed coffee shop.

4 North Street, PE8 4AL. 01832 270011.

Open Monday to Friday 8.30am-4pm, Saturday 8.30am-5pm.

WEST STREET

Behind tiny shop fronts lie unusual finds and wonderful discoveries.

MILESTONES FLORIST

There’s always a stunning array of flowers and plants here. Sandy Miles sources her stock from all over the world, receives a weekly delivery of Fairtrade flowers and is an agent for Interflora.

Specialising in wedding and funeral flowers, Sandy can provide beautiful hand-tied bouquets, gift baskets and arrangements for every occasion or event.

• 6a West Street, PE8 4EF. 01832 274305.

Open Monday to Saturday 9am-5pm. www.milestonesflorist.co.uk

SEVEN WELLS BUTCHERS

The beef comes from Robert and Sally Knight’s own herd of cattle, traditionally raised on their farm at Stoke Doyle.

“Our spring lamb comes from Fotheringhay, our pork and chicken from Suffolk, there’s local wild venison in season and for Christmas our turkeys are from Aldwincle, cockerels from Titchmarsh and geese from Bilston,” says Sally. They cook their own hams and ox tongue and make classic pork sausages and a range of pies and pasties on the premises. A keen cook, Sally’s ready meals are popular – call ahead and she’ll even cook your choice in your own dish!

• 8 West Street, PE8 4EF. 01832 273522.

Open Monday to Friday 7am-5pm, Saturday 7am-1pm. www.sevenwells.co.uk

The Mediterranean menu and gastro favourites bring customers back time and again.

2-3 Crown Court, PE8 4BQ. 01832 273366. Open Monday to Friday 10am-3pm and 6pm-10pm, Saturday 10am-10pm, Sunday 10am-3pm. www.dextersofoundle.co.uk

BEANS

THE ROUNDED HOUSE

Freshly ground Fairtrade coffee meets luscious ice cream milkshakes and great cakes.

1 New Street, PE8 4EA. 01832 270007. Open Monday to Saturday 8am-7pm, Sunday 9am-6.30pm. www.beanscoffeestop.co.uk

HARPUR’S OF OUNDLE

A treasure trove of fine jewellery, antiques and collectables. Owner Nigel Hill is a talented goldsmith, jeweller and raconteur who loves to create bespoke designs and the jewellery on display in the shop – a magnet to all who enjoy something different and special – ranges from quirky to classic, with pieces to suit all bank balances. They offer a comprehensive jewellery repair and valuation service and buy pre-loved jewellery, antiques and gold.

• 5a West Street, PE8 4EJ. 01832 274050.

Open Tuesday, Thursday to Saturday 10am4.30pm. www.harpurjewellery.com

OUNDLE CANDY CO

Enticing jars of sweets instil nostalgia in adults, while children clutching pocket money head for the pick ‘n’ mix. The luxury truffles and locally made fudge are pure temptation and even those with dietary demands can have their treats as sugarfree, gluten-free, vegan and dairy-free sweets and chocolates are available, too. The helpful staff will make up party packs, wedding favours, birthday and anniversary gifts and hampers.

• 10a West Street, PE8 4EF. 01832 275017.

Open Monday to Saturday 9.30am-5pm.

DEXTERS BAR & KITCHEN

trademark soft, calming colours.

• The Rounded House, 10b West Street, PE8 4EF. 01832 274687.

Open Monday to Saturday 9.30am-5pm. www.theroundedhouse.com

The sign outside reads ‘Beautiful things for the home and garden’ which neatly sums up this light and deliciously scented shop where Sam Harper reveals her passion for accessories that make a home welcoming. She sells lovely ponchos, scarves and bags, too, all in her

ASHA’S

Barbara Katavich is famed for discovering the most desirable home accessories and stylish women’s fashion not seen elsewhere.

Now there’s Asha’s Male Room which, with its antique Indian furniture, is reminiscent of a colonial gentlemen’s club. Here classy accessories, from leather goods and watches to men’s fragrances, appear alongside good quality, smart casual clothes from Denmark. It’s the perfect complement to Asha’s Attire with its fabulous jewellery and wonderfully wearable clothes for women.

Asha’s Inspired Living, renamed Chapel Interiors, has moved upstairs into the lovely light-filled space of this converted chapel building. Not only are there even more inspirational furnishings to be discovered, there’s a coffee shop where even the cakes are exclusive to Asha’s!

• The Bazaar, West Street, PE8 4EJ. 01832 275259 (Asha’s Attire), 01832 275605 (Chapel Interiors). Open Tuesday to Saturday 9am-5pm. www.ashas.net NENE LIVING OCTOBER 2016

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OUNDLE CLOCK SHOP

ANTIQUE CLOCKS | POCKET WATCHES | VINTAGE WATCHES

51A West Street, Oundle PE8 4EJ 01832 272 099

GREENMAN ANTIQUES & RESTORATION

JEWELLERY | FINE SILVER | GEORGIAN & EARLY OAK FURNITURE

74 West Street, Oundle PE8 4EF

01832 270 970 greenmanantiques@btconnect.com Free estimates and advice on all restoration & repairs. Free roadside parking.

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www.romejos.co.uk

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14 Market Place, Oundle, PE8 4BA Tel: 01832 272165

SPOTLIGHT ON OUNDLE

Where to eat and drink BREWBABU

Specialist teas and coffees, great cakes and imaginative dishes in a memorable setting.

6 West Street, PE8 4EF. 01832 273909. Open Monday to Saturday 9am-6pm, Sunday 10am-5pm.

ONKAR

WEST STREET

THE DOLBY GALLERY

MARTIN CHARLES BRIDAL GALLERY

In an aura of calm elegance, Martin – a fashion designer who has worked with famous names in couture – stocks gorgeous classic gowns from top designers and, with his passion for technical expertise, ensures every dress will fit perfectly. He’ll design and make a wedding dress to order, too. An appointment system ensures that the bride-to-be receives dedicated, personal service.

• 13 West Street, PE8 4EJ. 01832 273448.

Open Tuesday to Friday 10am-5pm, Saturday 9.30am-4.30pm. www.martincharlesbridalgallery.com

THE BEAUTY ROOM

With a childfriendly hair salon and range of facial and body treatments for women and men, it lives up to its name. From manicures, pedicures, waxing and lash extensions to Elemis facials, massages and holistic therapies, there’s much to please here.

• 14 West Street, PE8 4EF. 01832 273989.

Open Tuesday 9am-5pm, Wednesday, Thursday 10am-8pm, Friday 9am-6pm, Saturday 9am-3pm. www.beautyroomoundle.co.uk

KIKISAMS

Packed with appealing styles for children, from new-borns to age eight, together with toys and accessories, this shop is a rich source of ‘finds’. The clothes for boys, girls and babies, are smart, good quality and well designed and there are some great gifts for every age and occasion too.

• 21a West Street, PE8 4EJ. 01832 275314. Open Monday to Saturday (except Wednesday) 9.30am-5pm. http://kikisams.co.uk

Featuring original contemporary and traditional paintings, prints and crafts by local and national artists, this delightful gallery also exhibits handmade jewellery, pottery, ceramics, glass and furniture, sells limited edition prints, fine art greetings cards and work by its artist owners, Simon, Gillian and Polly Dolby, each with their own distinctive style. They offer a framing and restoration service, too.

• 30 West Street, PE8 4EF. 01832 273801.

Open Monday to Saturday 10am-1pm, 2pm5pm (Wednesday 10am-1pm). www.dolby-gallery.com

THE OUNDLE CLOCK SHOP

Jo Ellwood and Garry Martin sell, restore and repair antique clocks, barometers and vintage pocket watches and offer free estimates on the repair of timepieces.

Discover big, bold dial clocks, Georgian bracket clocks, fine long cases, pretty French mantel and decorated carriage clocks, along with clocks made within a 50-mile radius of Oundle in which Jo, whose father and grandfather before her traded here, specialises.

• 51a West Street, PE8 4EJ. 01832 272099.

Open Tuesday, Thursday to Saturday 9am1pm, 2pm-5pm.

Favourite Indian dishes with friendly service, midweek specials and delivery service.

26 West Street, PE8 4EF. 01832 274312.

Open Tuesday to Sunday 5.30-10.30pm.

SALERNO’S

Family-run Italian restaurant, café and deli serving traditional Italian favourites.

12 West Street, PE8 4EF. 01832 270842. Open Monday, Tuesday 5pm-10pm, Wednesday, Thursday 10am-10pm, Friday 10am-11pm, Saturday, Sunday 12noon-11pm. www.salernosoundle.co.uk

THE SHIP INN

Traditional English pub known for real ales, homecooked food and cosy atmosphere.

18 West Street, PE8 4EF. 01832 273918. Open daily 11am-11.30pm (Friday and Saturday to 11.45pm). www.theshipinn-oundle.co.uk

THE TALBOT HOTEL EATERY & COFFEE HOUSE Historic coaching inn with an AA Rosette and meals both formal and relaxed.

New Street, PE8 4EA. 01832 273621. Open daily 7am-9pm (weekends to 9.30pm). www.thetalbot-oundle.com

GREEN MAN ANTIQUES AND RESTORATION Across the road you’ll find genuine antiques in fine condition.

Here Jo Ellwood features early oak, walnut, mahogany and Georgian furniture, “small pieces that fit in every home”, collectable silver, fine china and decorative glass, and her daughter Vicky specialises in vintage jewellery. Free estimates are given for furniture restoration and upholstery.

• 74 West Street, PE8 4EF. 01832 270970.

Open Tuesday, Thursday to Saturday 10am4pm. www.greenmanantiques.com

KÜCHEN KRAFT

Dream kitchens and bathrooms come to fruition here! The showroom reveals top quality ranges encompassing modern, traditional,

country and urban styles. As happy customers attest, what’s special about this independent company, which retains its own fitters and craftspeople, is that they don’t just fit the units – owner Guy Bolsover project manages the whole installation, down to the last detail.

• 81 West Street, PE8 4EJ. 01832 270300.

Open Monday to Friday (except Wednesday) 9.30am-4.30pm, Saturday 9am-1pm. www.kuchenkraft.co.uk

GEOFF STUBBS

Famed for its selection of flying model aircraft, for over 45 years this model shop has attracted loyal enthusiasts from miles around. Piled high with a vast number and variety of kits, particularly by Airfix and Revell, every inch of space is devoted to model making, including supplies for those who want to build their models from scratch.

• 86 West Street, PE8 4EF. 01832 273866.

Open Tuesday, Thursday to Saturday 9am1pm, 2pm-5pm.

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SPOTLIGHT ON OUNDLE

BUSINESSES BENEFIT BY WORKING TOGETHER The Oundle and District Association of Trade and Commerce works to encourage trade between member businesses and attract investment to the town. It’s existed in various forms for over 50 years and has a diverse range of members from numerous local small businesses. Monthly social networking evenings take place on the first Wednesday of each month and annual membership costs £30.

• For information on events and membership, log on to www.oundlebusiness.co.uk

MARKET DAYS

A popular general market is held every Thursday while a thriving Farmers’ Market fills the Market Place with good things on the second Saturday of each month from 8am to 2pm.

PARKING

Car parking is free in Oundle. Shoppers can head for the car park behind the Co-op off St Osyth’s Lane; there’s limited short-term on-street parking in the town’s main streets. Oundle Wharf has good parking for customers.

OUNDLE WHARF This waterside development (Station Road, PE8 4DE) is home to the Tap & Kitchen restaurant and bar (01832 275069. Open Monday to Friday 10am-11pm, Saturday 10am-midnight, Sunday 10am-6pm. www.tapandkitchen.com), the Nene Valley Brewery and a growing number of specialist shops and businesses. The shop at the Brewery is open on Friday from 4pm-7pm and Saturday 10am-6pm. 01832 272776. www.nenevalleybrewery.com Cyclists travel from all over Britain to the Gorilla Firm, for their wide range of bikes, components, accessories and clothing, bespoke builds and fitting studio. 01832 273783.

Open Tuesday, Wednesday 12.30pm-5.30pm, Thursday to Saturday 9.30am-5.30pm. www.gorillafirmcycling.com Errismore Flowers is a wholesaler and florist open to the trade and the public. Flowers are ordered direct from Holland and in-house florists can design bouquets and arrangements for all occasions. They run workshops, too.

01832 274245. www.errismoreflowers.co.uk

Hambleton Bakery’s additive-free, handmade artisan bread has garnered awards and countless aficionados. Stock up on jams, honey, chutneys and granolas, too. 01832 358529.

Open Monday to Saturday 8am-5pm. www.hambletonbakery.co.uk Amps Fine Wines has become a popular stop for those in search of a bottle from the small independent wineries that never make it into supermarkets. A tasting machine dispenses wines to try (free) before you buy. 01832 279164. Open Tuesday to Saturday 10am-7pm. www.ampsfinewines.co.uk

SOUTH ROAD FOXTAIL LILLY

Bespoke hand-tied bouquets, wedding flowers and cottage garden plants are stocked alongside decorative accessories for the home plus indoor plants and gifts – heady scents greet you at this beautiful little barn shop which is surrounded by a lovingly-tended garden that’s been featured on TV and in magazines.

41 South Road, PE8 4BP. 01832 274593. Open Wednesday to Saturday, 10am-5pm. www.foxtail-lilly.co.uk

EASTWOOD ROAD OUNDLE CARPET WEAVERS AND OUNDLE CURTAINS

In these two showrooms it’s possible to sort out all your flooring and window-dressing needs at remarkably good prices. There’s a big selection of carpets to choose from or, as they have their own looms in town on which they manufacture wool and velvet pile carpets (using British wool), they can make something specially for you. Leading brands of wood and vinyl flooring are also stocked.

Step next door to choose curtains and blinds, ready-mades or hand-made-to-measure, together with all the necessary poles, tracks and accessories.

• Units 4&5, Eastwood Road, PE8 4DF. 01832 275009. Open Monday to Saturday 9am5.30pm. www.oundlecarpetweavers.com NENE LIVING OCTOBER 2016

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Personalised Professional Eye Care in the heart of Oundle Stockists of beautiful frames like these by Ronit Furst

5 Market Place, Oundle, PE8 4BA Tel: 01832 272974 www.judithday.co.uk

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OUTDOOR LIVING Seasonal trees that please Nature gives us many gifts,especially in autumn as the leaves on our trees turn a lush redgold-brown colour. Now is an ideal time to think about pruning requirements,so we asked Andy Stone from Nene Valley Tree Services to shares his recommendations for tree care at this time of year…

A

S we head towards winter, your trees will go through a process – similar to an animal going into hibernation – called dormancy. Metabolism, energy consumption and growth all slow down to keep the tree alive during the winter.

Deciduous trees, as a rule of thumb, are best pruned in autumn and winter, as this promotes fast regrowth in the spring and it’s easier to see their shape without the foliage.

However, in some cases – for example with magnolias and walnuts – pruning is best done in late summer, as healing is quicker, so always seek advice if you’re not sure. Fruit trees, too, are suitable for some general winter pruning, • WINTER PRUNING If you feel competent and safe enough to give it a go yourself, do it on a mild, dry day and first prune out any dead, dying or diseased branches. Then remove the overgrown branches to increase light and air at the crown of the tree. In general, your goal is to keep the branches that develop or maintain the structure of the tree. Cut branches at the node – the point at which one branch or twig attaches to another.

The aim in pruning fruit trees is to create stronger branches so they are able to hold the future crop!

• CROWN REDUCTION Tree growth often gets stunted in confined spaces due to a lack of sunlight and space.

A crown reduction will reduce the size and volume of the tree’s crown while retaining its natural shape as much as possible. Trees naturally shed branches, and an arborist should aim to prune back to these points.

Never undertake this task without consulting a professional arborist!

• POLLARDING Pollarding is a method of pruning that keeps trees and shrubs smaller than they would naturally grow. It is normally started once a tree reaches a certain height, and annual pollarding will restrict the plant to that height; this method, however, only applies to certain vigorous trees, such as willow. Again, don’t undertake this task without consulting a professional arborist.

• DEADWOODING As trees grow older, many of the limbs can die and become brittle. It’s always a good idea to remove any deadwood from the tree

Happy customers Sara and Richard turned to Nene Valley Tree Services recently when they weren’t sure about keeping a Silver Birch which was taking up a lot of their garden, and blocking light from the house.

We gave it a crown reduction and a slight crown lift, which solved all their problems and saved the tree from the chop.

BEFORE

before it becomes a hazard. A professional arborist will be able to offer advice on this.

• STUMP GRINDING If you have had a tree taken out and you’re left with an unsightly and inconvenient stump, why not get it ground out? This is done using a stump grinder machine – it can be done any time of year and will enable you to get that space back for re-turfing or landscaping as appropriate. Stump grinding is a task for a professional arborist.

Permission must be sought from your local authority planning department before any work can start on protected trees or trees in a conservation area, and your arborist will be able to help you with the application.

Potentially dangerous limbs can, in theory, be removed without permission but the penalties for breaching the legislations, inadvertently or not, can be severe so it’s just not worth the risk!

And talking of risks, if you are engaging a tree surgeon, please double-check they are fully insured for the job you want them to complete.

Our top tip is never buy from someone at your door, always check them out online first and read reviews about the company first. Safe Local Trades is an excellent resource for finding all kinds of tradesmen, including tree surgeons.

Take a look at www.safelocaltrades.com

AFTER

• If you have any questions about your trees it’s probably worth seeking professional advice from a qualified arborist. Nene Valley Tree Services can be contacted on 01832 281275, 07729664927 or email: nenevalleytrees@gmail.com. www.nenevalleytreeservices.com

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HEALTH & BEAUTY Compiled by Bridget Steele

Take some Time Out

Gently be is a partnership between Jackie Bland and Ali Coutts, who share a vision of bringing balance, harmony, health, mental and spiritual fulfilment to women of all ages. Jackie is a fully qualified hypnotherapist and Ali delivers Laughter Yoga sessions, as well as looking after the organisation and hospitality side of the business.

The ladies are running Time Out sessions for women in oneday workshops at £65 including snacks and lunch, a five-week evening course at £49 and in 2017 there will be Time Out weekends where, through informal sessions, women can explore gentle movement and relaxation practices for body and mind using techniques and ideas for making the best of yourself and life. Nutritionist, healthy cookbook writer and Oundle resident, Barbara Cousins will be on hand to discuss nutrition and health.

Time out days coming up are on Sundays 23 October, 13 November and 4 December based at Wadenhoe Village Hall or the Hub in Oundle. The five-week courses are on Monday evenings at Wadenhoe Village Hall during the autumn.

• Bookings can be made at www.gentlybe.com, via email ali@gentlybe.com, or you can call Ali for a chat first on 07591 941879.

Exclusive skincare from Burghley

October opticals Judith Day Optometrist in Oundle specialises in contact lenses and enjoys demonstrating to children and adults of all ages just how comfortable and adaptable contact lenses can be. As a Seiko specialist the practice can advise you on the most suitable lenses for vision and lifestyle. And during October it is offering a free upgrade to the latest in technology, Seiko PrimeX varifocal lenses when you order Seiko Emblem Extrawide varifocal lenses – giving you clear, comfortable vision at all distances.

The practice also has a good range of stylish spectacle frames, many of which are not widely available, such as the beautiful hand-painted frames

by Ronit Furst (above). With an optical laboratory on site, Judith Day Optometrist has professional control of your prescription glasses from eye examination right through to collection and aftercare.

• Judith Day Optometrist, 5 Market Place, Oundle PE8 4BA. 01832 272974.

Learn how meditation can heal the mind on a retreat day in Oundle this month. Buddhist nun Gen Kelsang Nyingpo will be leading two one-hour sessions – with a coffee break and an opportunity to chat and ask questions – on Saturday 22 October from 10.30am -1pm. The event costs £15 and will explore how meditation is ‘medicine for the mind’. Participants will learn which states of mind give rise to both internal and external pain and problems, and then learn meditations to counteract those inner sources of pain and discomfort and how to apply them in everyday life.

Meditation Retreat: The healing power of meditation takes place at Oundle Suite, Fletton House, Oundle, PE8 4JA. For information visit www.meditateinpeterborough.org.uk

B Skincare was formulated and developed over 18 months by Burghley Academy owners, mother and daughter Tina Parsons and Alexa Hillier, then introduced to the Academy in November 2015. It is a compact skincare range that clearly follows the ethos of Burghley, encompassing high quality ingredients, avoidance of chemicals and luxury products that clients and therapists will love to use.

“Our range consists of six main daily products that can be layered according to skin type and needs. We also have three prescription masks and massage candles to add luxury and continued care of the skin,” says Alexa.

“Alongside the new products we designed signature facial treatments, once again encapsulating Burghley’s ethos of holistic care. All our facials begin with a zone therapy foot massage and are adapted to suit the needs of our clients’ skin on the day. We have also added Sensory eye and lip treatments to our menu, enabling us to thoroughly treat areas of concern for clients,” Alexa tells us.

• B Skincare is totally exclusive to Burghley Hair-Beauty-Academy, St Peters House, Gravel Walk, 1 Bishops Road, Peterborough PE1 1YE. 01733 341878. www.burghleyacademy.co.uk

Beauty bootcamp If, like most of the population, you struggle with lumps and bumps, cellulite, acne worries, pigmentation, sun-damage or ageing, then maybe it’s time to head for Elysia where you can have a consultation to discuss a tailor-made plan of ultra- effective advanced technology treatments that will treat and repair, adding an exercise and nutrition programme if needed that will really intensify results.

Treatments range from permanent fat reduction to micro-needling, peels, lasers and light therapy. If you are starting a new job, preparing for the party season or just want to feel better and increase confidence, the Bootcamp will be able to address your concerns.

• Elysia Aesthetic and Laser Clinic, Tansor, Oundle, 01832 226328 or 07879 620196.

NENE LIVING OCTOBER 2016

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FOOD & DRINK A touch of brilliance Bengal Brasserie is a multi-award-winning restaurant in Thrapston. Sue Dobson and Bridget Steele went along for a mid-week banquet

T

UCKED away in The Bullring behind the High Street, the Bengal Brasserie isn’t somewhere you happen upon by chance, yet it is always busy and probably counts as Thrapston’s worst-kept secret.

Numerous awards framed and hung in the entrance of the restaurant – a big, airy space that was formerly an auction house – attest to the quality of the food, while the happy buzz inside tells of its popularity.

Our welcome from manager Max was friendly and within minutes the menus had arrived and our drinks order taken. The light and crispy poppadoms and selection of chutneys and pickles (made by the chefs) were so good it was difficult to concentrate on reading the menu; Wednesday is ‘banquet night’ when, for £10.95 per person, a starter, a main course, a side dish and rice or a nan can be chosen from the a la carte menu.

Bridget enthused about her starter – “light, crispy and fresh tasting” – finding my Bengal kebab (marinated lamb in a creamy sauce with tomato, onions and green peppers) “beautifully cooked but a little too rich”. From the house specialities we chose Chicken Jamjal (thinly-sliced chicken tikka cooked with fresh garlic, ginger, onion, green pepper, green

chilli, fresh coriander with a dash of Worcester sauce and a touch of yoghurt) and we simply had to try the Thrapston Cheesy Lamb (lightly spiced shredded lamb tikka with garlic, onions, peppers, mushrooms, tomato and a touch of oyster sauce, topped with cheese). Both were brilliant and we loved the subtle flavourings; the food seemed to be deliciously scented, rather than overwhelmed, by the spices.

Likewise the vegetable side dishes – dry seasonal vegetable bhaji and brinjal bhaji – al dente and still with a little bite.

All dishes are cooked to order and through the glass of the open kitchen you can watch it all happening. Not surprisingly, the staff here are proud of their awards, which include being runner-up in the Northamptonshire Food and Drink Awards 2014/15 Spice Restaurant of the Year category. In 2014, head chef Ferdause Ahmed was proclaimed Chef of the Year, East Midland Region, at the Bangladeshi Caterers Association Awards in London, a year on from his Award of Excellence as a winner in the national Curry Life Awards 2013.

• Bengal Brasserie, 10 The Bullring, Church Walk, Thrapston NN14 4NP. 01832 735620 or 01832 735288. Book a table in advance. www.bengalbrasserie.net

City welcomes its first wagamama

P

OPULAR eatery wagamama opened the doors to its first restaurant in Peterborough last month.

The 151-seat restaurant, on Long Causeway, offers a variety of new and classic Japanese-inspired dishes including wagamama’s famed ramen – bowls of fragrant soup filled with noodles, which can be customised with one of three new stocks – as well as the much-loved prawn firecracker and a tofu chilli salad. Those after a light bite can enjoy small plates such as chicken gyozas or edamame shaken with chilli and salt, alongside an extensive choice of fresh juices, desserts and beverages. There’s also a range of dishes designed especially for kids.

• 37-39 Long Causeway, PE1 1YJ. 01733 889851.

For more on menus and opening times see www.wagamama.com

Beetroot burgers with kale & quinoa salad Serves 4 Ingredients: • 200g quinoa • 350g beetroot, peeled & grated • 150g carrots, peeled & grated • 1 apple, peeled & grated • 1 small onion, finely sliced • 120g breadcrumbs • 2 large eggs, beaten • Leaves from 2 sprigs fresh thyme • Oil for frying • 200g curly kale leaves, finely chopped • 2tbsp finely chopped fresh

parsley • Zest & juice of 1 lemon • Sea salt & ground black pepper • Extra virgin olive oil for drizzling • A dollop of sour cream or yoghurt • 2tsp caraway seeds, toasted in a dry pan for 30 secs or so • Cook the quinoa according to instructions and leave to cool.

• Mix together the beetroot, carrot, apple, onion, breadcrumbs, thyme and eggs. Season with pepper.

• Chill in the fridge for 30 mins, then form into 8 flattish burgers.

• Fry in a little oil on both sides until lightly browned.

• Transfer to a non-stick tray. Bake at 190°C for 30 minutes.

• Meanwhile, mix the quinoa with the raw kale, parsley, lemon zest and juice and season.

• Drizzle with a little olive oil.

• Serve with the burgers and yoghurt, sprinkled with caraway seeds.

• Good with rye bread too!

Weekly organic veg boxes delivered to your door riverford.co.uk/sacrewell 01803 227227 NENE LIVING OCTOBER 2016

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FOOD & DRINK Charters clocks up quarter of a century!

Situated on what’s believed to be the largest converted Dutch barge in the UK, Peterborough’s famous riverside Charters Bar has just celebrated its first 25 years of trading.

Jonathan Craymer has been hearing about its history from founder Paul Hook

I

N 1907 a working Dutch barge – the Leendert-R – first took to the water, little dreaming (if boats do in fact dream!) that 84 years later it would find itself moored next to Peterborough’s Town Bridge, serving as one of the city’s most iconic venues.

Having worked on the rivers and canals of Holland, Belgium and Germany carrying sand and grain until 1990, the huge 176ft craft, capable of carrying 616 tonnes of cargo, crossed the North Sea and squeezed down the comparatively cramped waters of the Nene to find its new resting place on the west side of the bridge.

Converting it took less than a year and the Leendert-R’s lower deck was opened as Charters Bar in autumn 1991. Now Real Ale features heavily at Charters and the venue has become a popular haunt for CAMRA members and other lovers of what many would claim is ‘proper’ beer.

In fact, Charters lays claim to being the largest floating Real Ale bar in Britain, with 12 cask ales on tap, accompanied by some several hundred guest ales a year. There’s also what’s said to be the largest beer garden in Peterborough, helping the bar serve a clientele of all ages.

This versatile venue, licensed for entertainment, dancing and live music, plays host to a steady stream of live performers

contributing hugely to Peterborough’s nightlife. A 100-seater full Pan-Asian restaurant, East, was added in 2001.

Paul Hook, one of the two owners explained: “It gave us a cost-effective opportunity to open a venue with a unique setting on the water and I had some experience of working with boats.

“We had a great trip lasting 25 hours coast to coast. Major works were then carried out over some months at Wisbech.

The greatest hurdles were balancing the tide levels at the Dog in a Doublet lock and getting under the Town Bridge itself, which involved flooding the boat to make it sit low in the water, but it was very tight – almost too tight!

“The big steel work was done in Wisbech using a crane from Drake Towage on the bank side, then she travelled upriver to Peterborough where the majority of the work was done in her present location. The construction team were local tradesmen, some of whom are still regulars in Charters.

“Our biggest frustration was with the powers that be who, having given permission for a 200ft mooring for a 176ft barge, got cold feet and tried to say it was for lots of small boats. Commonsense prevailed, but it put the project on hold for six weeks while local councillors sorted it out – if any of them can remember this after 25 years I would like to

Charters lays claim to being the largest floating Real Ale bar in Britain,with 12 cask ales on tap, accompanied by some several hundred guest ales a year

40

NENE LIVING OCTOBER 2016

thank them for their support.”

Can Paul – who admits to being called ‘Captain Hook’ by some friends! – remember any particularly amusing incidents during the conversion work? “Builders love to use spirit levels but working on a boat against a muddy bank means every day the boat is at a different angle. One time I came in to find a doorway was under construction resembling the crooked house! Spirit levels were banned from that day on…”

Were there nerves about the reception local people might give to a bar on a boat?

“No, it was brilliant,” said Paul. “There was a last minute panic to get the venue open, but a real wow factor when it did. We featured Real Ale and knew that it would be well received. I told my bank manager that it would take three months to get trade up to speed, but in reality it took just three days!”

So would the team behind Charters change anything if they started again now?

“Probably not. It’s evolved a little over the years but in essence it works very well. I wouldn’t change anything. But you might see a bit of new paint here or there.”

Would he like to see the city centre’s use of the river bank expanded – with many more venues next to the water? “Totally!

I would love the river to be the centre of Peterborough as it’s a great asset we all take for granted.”

• Want to sample some of the great live entertainment at Charters? See the events page at www.charters-bar.com/ events-cat/up-coming

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DAY OUT

Wisbech

Known as the Capital of the Fens,there’s much to see and enjoy in this busy town with its fine Georgian terraces and Regency architecture. Sue Dobson went visiting...

D

RIVE into Wisbech off the A47 and you are greeted with one of the finest vistas of Georgian architecture to be found anywhere in England.

Lining both banks of the River Nene as it winds its way through town to The Wash, the splendid houses on the North Brink and South Brink were built by wealthy landowners, merchants and warehouse owners in the 18th century, when Wisbech was in its heyday as a trading centre.

The finest of these is wisteria-draped Peckover House. Built in 1722, it was bought by banker Jonathan Peckover in 1794, stayed in the family for over 150 years and is now in the care of the National Trust. Painted in soft shades and with superb rococo plaster and wood decorations, the handsome house is elegant yet cosy. It is easy to imagine a well-todo family living comfortably there.

Dedicated members of the Religious Society of Friends (Quakers), the Peckovers were known for their philanthropy. They were also great collectors and keen travellers – the Cabinet of Curiosities in the morning room is full of small finds from far-flung places. A fascination for plants and trees explains some of the rarities in the rose-adorned Victorian walled gardens that stretch for two acres behind the house.

Here, gravel paths meander among beds formal and wild, packed with colour and seasonal plantings. At the far end of the garden, the thatched 17th-century Reed Barn hosts a friendly restaurant.

As the River Nene takes a gentle curve further along the North Brink, look for Elgood’s Brewery, which dates back to 1795 and was one of the first Georgian breweries to be built outside London. Its four-acre walled garden is a must-see.

It’s such a pleasure to meander among

Peckover House, above, is in the care of the National Trust; Thomas Clarkson is celebrated in style, right; don’t miss Octavia Hill’s Birthplace House, below

Above and below: The walled gardens at Elgood’s Brewery on the North Brink are a must-see

spectacular specimen trees and bright herbaceous borders, to sit by the lake where carp thrive and birds pad among the water lilies, to discover quiet nooks and secret spaces and be challenged by the maze, planted with thuja and laurel.

Across on the South Brink, almost opposite Peckover House, is Octavia Hill’s Birthplace House. Best known as one of the founder members of the National Trust, in fact her greatest achievement was in housing reform and she can be considered the founder of modern social work, housing associations and the Army Cadet movement.

Born in Wisbech in 1838, she worked tirelessly to improve housing for the poorest in society, especially in the notorious London

slums, becoming known as the ‘Florence Nightingale of Victorian Housing’. The museum explores the influences that led to her pioneering work and has a secret garden, an example of the ‘outdoor sitting room’ she believed every family should have.

Thomas Clarkson is another famous social reformer born in Wisbech. Son of the headmaster of the local grammar school, he was one of the earliest leaders of the Abolitionist Movement, devoting his long adult life in an indefatigable campaign to end the slave trade. He is commemorated in a splendid monument in Bridge Street on the South Brink, designed by Sir George Gilbert Scott (whose work includes the Albert Memorial in Hyde Park).

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DAY OUT

Wisbech Take a break

Today’s Wisbech Castle is an elegant Regency villa

THE CASTLE THAT ISN’T William the Conqueror built a castle in Wisbech to guard the seaborne approach (Wisbech was at the base of the bay of The Wash estuary at the time) and to subdue the ‘wild fenmen’ led by Hereward the Wake. A Bishop’s Palace replaced it in 1478 and in the 17th century Oliver Cromwell’s Secretary of State built himself a fine mansion on the site. Today’s Wisbech Castle is a Regency villa and surrounding it, two crescents of gorgeous Georgian architecture, developed by a local builder and speculator in 1816, follow the circular shape of the original castle’s moat.

Take a step back in time at the Museum...

Close by, the Wisbech & Fenland Museum retains its Victorian design to provide a brilliant step back in time, in every sense. Opened in 1847, one of the oldest purpose-built museums in the country, it is a treasure house of eclectic artefacts.

Collections of china and porcelain span Staffordshire figurines and Napoleon’s Sèvres breakfast service captured at the Battle of Waterloo; there are finds from the Bronze Age, Rome and Ancient Egypt; African beadwork, Syrian glass and a wide representation of natural history. Mrs Pooley’s shop from Elm is pure nostalgia; the displays devoted to Thomas Clarkson’s anti-slavery campaign and Wisbech

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St Peter’s Church dates from the 12th century

in the 19th century are fascinating too.

A few steps away and surrounded by lovely gardens, the Parish Church of St Peter and St Paul dates from the 12th century and has a unique double nave under one roof. Look for the rounded Norman arches, the Florentine mosaic behind the high altar, 17th-century monuments in the chancel, a memorial to the Far East prisoners of war, fine Victorian stained glass windows and the huge royal coat of arms probably dating from the time of the Stuart King, James 1.

From here it’s a short walk to the shops and stalls of the Market Place.

If you’re in Wisbech for the day, taking in a movie may not be on your agenda, but The Luxe Cinema could tempt you to extend your visit.

This small independent cinema with its leather armchairs, twoseater sofas and a buzzing bar screens new films and live transmissions of theatre, ballet and opera productions in comfort and style.

Opposite, the compact Angles Theatre is one of the oldest surviving Georgian theatres in England.

A frequent winner of Anglia in Bloom, alongside the fine architecture, parks and gardens, flowering tubs and baskets make Wisbech’s historic town centre an attractive place to visit.

• Good teas, coffees, home-made cakes, toasties and light meals are served in the bright and friendly Octavia’s Café, upstairs in the Octavia View building opposite the Somers Road car park. 10a-14 South Brink, PE13 1JQ. 01945 429300. Open Tuesday to Saturday 10am-4pm. www.ferryproject.org.uk/ services/octavias-cafe • Appreciated for its hearty servings and quality ales, the Red Lion is a cheerful traditional pub with good value lunch and dinner specials and Sunday roasts. 32 North Brink, PE13 1JR. 01945 582022.

Lunch served daily 12noon-2pm.

• Popular with local shoppers, Loafers Coffee Shop offers tasty coffee, cakes and light meals. 34 Market Place, PE13 1DP. 01945 382441. Open Monday to Friday 8.30am-4pm, Saturday 8am-4pm. www.loaferscoffeeshop.co.uk

Parking The large (and free) Somers Road and Church Terrace car parks are within easy walking distance of the town centre. Visitors to Peckover House should park in the (free) Chapel Road car park behind the North Brink. Elgood’s Brewery has its own parking facilities.

Find out more Peckover House, North Brink, PE13 1JR. 01945 583463. Open Saturday to Wednesday, house 12noon-4pm, garden, shop and tearoom 11am5pm, until 30 October. www.nationaltrust.org. uk/peckover-house-and-garden Elgood & Sons, North Brink Brewery, PE13 1LW. 01945 583160. Open Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, 11.30am-4.30pm (brewery tours at 2pm) until 6 October. www.elgoods-brewery.co.uk Octavia Hill’s Birthplace House, 7 South Brink, PE13 1JB. 01945 476358. Open Saturday to Wednesday 1pm-4.30pm (last admission 4pm) until 30 October. www.octaviahill.org Wisbech Castle is occasionally open for tours and the gardens can often be visited. 01945 585096 for details.

Wisbech & Fenland Museum, Museum Square, PE13 1ES. 01945 583817. Open Tuesday to Saturday 10am-4pm, admission free. www.wisbechmuseum.org.uk St Peter’s Church, Church Terrace, PE13 1HP. 01945 582508. Open Monday to Friday 8am6pm, Saturday, Sunday 8am-4pm. www.stpeterschurch-wisbech.org.uk Luxe Cinema, Alexandra Road, PE13 1HQ. 01945 588808. www.theluxecinema.com Angles Theatre, Alexandra Road, PE13 1HQ. 01945 474447. www.anglestheatre.co.uk

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LIVE & LEARN The joy of new discoveries U3A – the University of the Third Age – is where retired and semi-retired people get together and learn together...

S

OUND interesting? All you have to do is join a local U3A, choose an Interest Group on a subject that interests or is new to you… and away you go. And if you want to set up a new Interest Group, that’s possible too.

Oundle and District U3A – one of nearly 1,000 U3As in the UK – held its launch meeting back in October 2008 in the Drill Hall in Oundle and so many people came along to find out what U3A was all about that, rather embarrassingly, not everyone could be squeezed into the hall! A month later, 25 Interest Groups were being offered to members. Now, eight years later, there are 84 Interest Groups and currently 650 members.

In fact, in February this year, Molly Turner became the 1000th person to join.

Aside from the Interest Groups, there is

a monthly meeting in the Queen Victoria Hall in Oundle, open to all members, with a guest speaker – recent topics have included Lyveden New Bield, Lord Nelson, the Vulcan bomber, secret London and even a visit by Nell Gwynne. There’s also a chance to chat over a cup of tea or coffee and sign up for one of the many outings and theatre trips which are organised for members.

An Open Day every August showcases the Interest Groups to both existing and potential members – this year a wide range of groups were represented: the IT group had small robots whizzing across tables, an Art Appreciation group played a continuous loop of artists’ work looked at this year, the Card Making group put on an impressive display of their work, one of the Gardening groups ran a

quiz with a ‘gardening slant’ and the draw was held for the Bridge Competition.

Kirsten Harbott, Interest Groups’ Coordinator says: “Our U3A is always evolving.

New people move to the area or retire and they are often looking for new interests. We have new groups starting up all the time – the most recent ones are British History, Flexercise and Kingfishers Intermediate Walking group. Before the Referendum, we even had a group debating the pros and cons of Brexit!”

• Visitors are welcome for one meeting, but will need to become a member (£12.50 a year) if they wish to attend again or join any groups. For more information, log on to www.u3asites.org.uk/oundle/home or email: chair.oundleu3a@hotmail.com

The great food waste debate

D

ID you know that almost fifty per cent of the total amount of food thrown away in the UK comes from our homes? We throw away seven million tonnes of food and drink every year, according to www. lovefoodhatewaste.com – and although the figure is down by 21 per cent since 2007, with £12.5 billion of food ending up in the bin there is still a long way to go.

If you want to make a difference, a few events this month – organised by arts organisation Metal as part of the recently launched Lucy + Jorge Orta: Food exhibition at City Gallery – may help.

On Thursday 13 October at 7pm a panel from Waste Not, Want Not will explain some of the national initiatives that are tackling food waste. It’s also a chance to meet volunteers from Food Cycle Peterborough who serve nutritious meals for people at risk of food poverty and social isolation, the local Women’s

Institute who recently adopted Food Waste and Food Poverty as their national campaigns and Peterborough in Transition.

On Saturday 15 October, 1.30–4.30pm at Peterborough Museum you can join Food Cycle Peterborough and the Women’s’ Institute for Table set

by Lucy and ‘Get Set Cook’ Food Jorge Orta Waste – a cooking competition like you’ve never seen before.

On Friday 21 October at 7.30pm, Film Club Frame invites you to Chauffeurs Cottage (St Peters Rd, PE1 1YX) for a screening of The Slow Food Story, a documentary following the tiny town of Bra from which an anti-fast-food movement has grown to become a revolution with roots in more than 150 countries.

Finally, you could host a meal with friends and family and join in the conversation around food waste and food consumption. During the Lucy + Jorge Orta: Food exhibition you can borrow a dinner set for six people – which includes limited edition Harvest plates and a table runner designed

by Lucy and Jorge Orta for their Harvest meal in Cathedral Square last year.

Email ruth@metalculture. com to reserve your set.

• The Lucy + Jorge: Food exhibition runs until 4 December 2016. For details on the exhibition, how to book workshops and talks or how to loan a dinner service visit www. metalculture.com, call 01733 893077 or drop into the gallery to pick up a free guide.

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OUT & ABOUT October dates for your diary

Friday 14 October Roll up, roll up…

All The Fun of The Fair with the Yarwell & Nassington Britannia Band – an annual charity concert in aid of the Roy Castle Lung Cancer charity – takes place on Friday 14 October at Nassington Church. Doors open at 7pm and there’ll be a bar and raffle. Tickets are £8 and are available from Nassington Stores, Moulds Butchers, Oundle Box Office or on 01733 782200.

Monday 3 to Saturday 15 October Welland Valley Arts Society Autumn Exhibition The society represents artists from five counties, and twice a year showcases a wide range of work in a variety of media from selected members. Entry is free and the exhibition is open daily 10am-5pm, and selected evenings, at Stamford Arts Centre, 27 St Mary’s Street, Stamford PE9 2DL. 01780 763203 www.wvas.co.uk

Monday 3 October Figures in the landscape, with John Glover John is a Suffolk-based artist who originally studied at the Glasgow School of Art and has had a varied career working in all major mediums – he will on this occasion demonstrate in oils.

7.30pm-9.30pm. £4 to non-members. St Mark’s Church Hall, Lincoln Road, Peterborough. www. peterboroughartsociety. org.uk Friday 7 October Freak Speak Poetry Freak Speak is Peterborough’s premier spoken word night – promising the ‘best kind of punch-youin-the-gut poetic talent from across the country’.

Featuring three nationally-revered spoken word legends – Deanna Rodger, Dean Atta and Adam

Tuesday 4 October Audience with Lesley Garrett Join Britain’s most popular soprano for a delightful evening of song, reminiscences and chat.

Her behind-the-scenes stories and anecdotes will give audiences a unique insight into her life on the stage.

7.30pm. £35. Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough PE1 1EF. 01733 207239. www. vivacity-peterborough.com

Kammerling – this event supports Black History Month and the UK’s writers of colour.

7.30pm. £6. The Radius, Northminster PE1 1YN. www.freakspeakpoetry. co.uk

Sunday 9 October The Perkins Great Eastern Run Flat and fast… this year’s race is on track to be the biggest ever, with thousands of runners already signed up to one of the UK’s fastest halfmarathons and hundreds more taking part in Anna’s Hope, the official charity of the 5K fun run.

It’s Anna’s Hope’s 10th anniversary this year, and runners are invited to support the charity’s work in helping local children with a brain tumour.

For a fundraising pack call 01780 740492 or email admin@annashope. co.uk; for more details of the event visit www. perkinsgreateasternrun. co.uk Monday 10 October Peterborough Civic Society AGM and talk: Preparations for the 900th Anniversary of Peterborough Cathedral Following the Annual General Meeting of the Peterborough Civic Society, Stuart Orme, Head of Operations at Peterborough Cathedral, will talk about the ongoing preparations for the celebration of the 900th anniversary in 2018 of the city’s finest built asset.

7.30pm. Free entry. St Mark’s Hall, Lincoln Road PE1 2SN. www. peterboroughcivicsociety. org.uk Tuesday 11 October Round the Horne Take a step back in time to the BBC’s Paris Studios

and experience a comedy classic live. From 1965 to 1968 there wasn’t a bigger radio programme in Britain than the groundbreaking Round the Horne – it and still endures, 50 years on. 7.30pm. £15, concessions £13. Key Theatre, Embankment Road, Peterborough PE1 1EF. 01733 207239. www. vivacity-peterborough. com Saturday 15 October Autumn Charity Sale for Chernobyl Children’s Appeal Tireless fundraisers John and Rosie Sandall host another of their popular charity sales.

10am-12 noon, All Saints’ Church Hall, Park Road, Peterborough, (opposite Central Park). 01733 268340

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OUT & ABOUT October dates for your diary Getting autumn off to a fantastic start with fun, fur and feathers – the Autumn Food and Country Fair takes place at the East of England Showground on Sunday October 9. The event mixes family fun, outdoor pursuits and country living all in one day.

Attractions this year include: • Superstar Shetland pony Thunder Pants – who will be showing his moves in the main display ring, from dressage to music, showjumping and fancy dress fun • A display by the East Anglian Staffordshire Bull Terrier Club display team • Companion Dog Show • Rare breed cattle, sheep, pigs and goats • Classic car and vintage tractor displays • Birds of Prey display • Fun fair • Food, drink and shopping area The event is home to The Supreme London Championships Small Livestock Show, billed as the rabbit world’s equivalent of Crufts. And for those who want to get a little more involved, there is the chance to compete against some of the country’s most successful vegetable growing gurus at the popular East of England Giant Vegetable Competition.

Advance tickets are priced adult £8, senior citizen £6, child (aged 5-16) £4, family £20 (2 adults, 2 children). www.autumnfoodandcountryfair.co.uk Corn Exchange, Broad Street, Stamford PE9 1PX. 01780 766455. www. stamfordcornexchange. co.uk Friday 21 October An Evening with Martin Kemp From the incredible global success of Spandau Ballet to hitting the headlines on BBC1’s EastEnders, Martin has had a truly amazing career. He has conquered personal challenges, had a bestselling book and won many new fans on Celebrity Big Brother – not forgetting his stunning performance in the hit movie The Krays. This is your chance to get up close and personal as Martin talks about his life and being in the business.

7.30pm. £22.50. Stamford

Friday 28 October Special Olympics Rock n Roll Dance Support Peterborough’s Special Olympics team attendance at the 2017 National Summer Games in Sheffield at this fun night which features The Houndogs and the City Sounds Disco. £12 including supper. 7pm.

The Parkway Club, Peterborough PE1 2AS. Rob Goodwin, 01733 261162/07905233636, email rmgoodwin@ tiscali.co.uk. www. inspirepeterborough. com/events/category/ourevents

Life on the Holme Front – 1940s Weekend

Autumn at Oundle Cinema The volunteer-led Oundle Cinema’s main programme continues this month with screenings of Carol, starring Cate Blanchett and Rooney Mara; Bridge of Spies, the cold-war spy story for which Mark Rylance won an Oscar as best supporting actor to Tom Hanks’s lead role; Trumbo, which tells the story of a screenwriter’s endeavours to allow freedom of speech and thought in 1940s Hollywood; and Son of Saul which won an Oscar and a Golden Globe award for its gritty depiction of an effort to give a boy a religious funeral in Auschwitz.

All films are shown at the Stahl Theatre, West Street, Oundle, PE8 4EJ. Many of the most popular of recent film releases can also be seen in nine local ‘outreach’ cinemas which are supported

by Oundle Cinema: Brigstock, Offord, Orton Waterville, Wadenhoe, Stanwick, Catworth, Ringstead, Thrapston and Woodnewton will show a range of excellent films which include Dad’s Army, Lady in the Van, Hail Cesar!, The Danish Girl, Our Kind of Traitor, Eye in the Sky and Suffragette. dOCs+, the documentary strand of Oundle Cinema, will screen three interesting, contrasting films during the autumn; screenings are on the third Wednesday of the month in Fletton House, off Glapthorn Road, Oundle PE8 4JA. • Details of all Oundle Cinema events are in the brochure available through local venues, on 01832 274734 or from the Oundle Festival Box Office, 4 New Street, Oundle PE8 4ED. www.oundlecinema.org.uk

One of our favourite local websites, IDEA1 – so-named because the A1 is the main arterial road that leads to the city – is a great place to find out what’s going on in Peterborough. www.idea1.org.uk.

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Email of forth details co to: nene ming events com. Ple living@hotmail . ase in the su put Out & Abou t bject lin e of you email, a long wit r h the in which the eve month nt takes place

Celebrating its ninth year, Life on the Holme Front is a hugely popular historical event for all the family taking place within Holme village and at Holmewood Hall. Over the weekend of 1-2 October, the village and hall will once again be transported back in time to the World War II era, celebrating and commemorating the important and vital role both played during the war years.

There will be a full programme of activities including a war time dance, hair raid shelter – where you can try out a hairstyle from the era! – exhibitions, tearoom, 1940s-inspired singers, vintage vehicle displays and a memorial parade on the Sunday morning.

The kids can have fun playing with remote controlled tanks or finding out what a 1940s working farmyard was like. In addition, there will be a variety of stalls offering vintage clothing, accessories and household goods for sale, as well as local history groups and collectors exhibiting WWII memorabilia. The event will also take a closer look at Holmewood Hall’s significant history as a top secret location for the US Office of Strategic Services (OSS) – a forerunner to the modern day Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) - where joint missions were planned with the British and Norwegian militaries.

10am to 4pm daily. Free entry, parking £2 per vehicle (includes complimentary programme). Holmewood Hall, Church Street, Holme PE7 3BZ. 01487 831166. www.holmewoodhall.co.uk/holmewood-hall/events

BOOK NOW FOR…

On Friday 18 November,Oundle Festival of Literature presents Sonia Purnell,author of First Lady:The Life and Wars of Clementine Churchill.Without Churchill’s inspiring leadership Britain could not have survived its darkest hour and repelled the Nazi menace.Without his wife Clementine,however,he might never have become Prime Minister. She wasWinston’s emotional rock and his most trusted confidante;not only was she involved in some of the most crucial decisions of war,but she exerted an influence over her husband and the government that would appear scandalous to modern eyes. Yet her ability to charm Britain’s allies and her humanitarian efforts on the Home Front earned her deep respect,both behind closed doors inWhitehall and among the population at large.7.45 pm.Tickets £8,£6 concessions,£1 early bird saving before 11 November. St Peters Church, Oundle PE8 4AL. Tickets from Oundle Box Office, 4 New Street,Oundle PE8 4ED. 01832 274734. www.oundlefestival.org.uk

COUNTRY GIFT FAIR 2016 at the Haycock Hotel, Wansford-in-England Tues 11th October 2016 10.00am – 6.00pm Wed 12th October 2016 10.00am – 3.30pm Over 40 stalls offering an extensive variety of quality goods.

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