Rutland Living September 2025 by Best Local Living

RUTLAND LIVING

HELLO SEPTEMBER 2025

THE TEAM

This magazine has been created by the team at Local Living, PO Box 208, Stamford PE9 9FY

PUBLISHER & EDITOR

Nicholas Rudd-Jones | 01780 765571 nicholas@bestlocalliving.co.uk

EDITOR & EDITORIAL DESIGN

Clare Rudd-Jones

ADVERTISEMENT SALES

Rutland & Market Harborough

What sort of September will it be for you this year? Some years we’re all raring to get into autumn by the end of August: early summer holidays enjoyed but long gone, August stretching out to its fullest extent with all local attractions visited at least once, school shoes bought and uniforms tarted up a little, shorts and sandals banished to a bottom drawer. New, worthy autumn activity fully signed up for, preparation begun. Walking the course at Defender Burghley Horse Trials. All ready for autumn action!

And other years, we’re still lost in the depths of deepest France, with meals feral and outdoors involving exotic fruits, a sense of time and purpose all but lost. Eventually we struggle back home to find a pile of post in the hall and a tangle of weeds in the garden. Which school was it they were at? Do we have to step into autumn, we’re not ready for it!

Which will it be for you this year?

Editors, Nicholas & Clare

Website: www.stamfordandrutlandliving.co.uk

Monthly Newsletter: Sign up via our website App Store: Living Mags (for Rutland Living & Stamford Living) Instagram: @stamfordandrutlandliving

Tracy Watkinson 01572 813187 | tracy@bestlocalliving.co.uk

Stamford Claudia Bayley 07876 171063 | claudia.bayley@btinternet.com

ADVERTISEMENT PRODUCTION

Ad Copy Manager: Rachel Beecroft Ad Designer: Sarah Patterson

This magazine now also incorporates Nene Valley Living & Market Harborough Living.

This magazine has been printed by Warners of Bourne on FSC® certiﬁed paper from sustainable and other controlled sources.

SUBSCRIPTIONS

Annual rate £45 (UK only) for 12 issues. Please write to the Publisher at Local Living Ltd, with £45 cheque payable to Local Living or buy your subscription at www.stamfordandrutlandliving.co.uk

COVER

Rutland Living: Defender Burghley Horse Trials from above; photo: DBHT/Peter Nixon

Stamford Living: fashion at Burghley (see p10); model: Elysia Costanzo-Lewis; photo: Tim Steele.

THIS MONTH WE LOVE…

SOPHIE ALLPORT’S NEW STAMFORD PRINTS

Sophie Allport has just released two gorgeous new Stamford-themed prints – perfect for anyone with connections with our beautiful market town and fabulous as a gift. Choose between a print of St Martin’s, shown right, or a scene on the Meadows. £55 each at Sophie Allport of Stamford. sophieallport.com

RUTLAND FOOD & DRINK WEEK

Food lovers rejoice! Rutland Food & Drink Week returns from Saturday 20 to Sunday 28 September, serving up a feast of flavours across the county. Highlights include the Rutland Food & Drink Festival in Oakham on Sunday 21 September, a line-up of culinary events in venues across the region, and special Taste of Rutland dishes on local menus. For the full programme and updates, follow @discoverrutland on social media and keep an eye on the local press nearer the time.

THE STAMFORD RANGE AT ENERGY CLOTHING

We love, love, love the t-shirts, sweatshirts, hoodies, hats and bags in the Stamford range from Energy Clothing in Stamford. They’re available in all colours of the rainbow –– just take your pick – and in sizes for women, men and children. Adult tees are £30, sweatshirts £40 and hoodies £45. Kids designs go from £20 for a tee. Put them on your wish list, whether you’re based in this region full time or just visiting. energy-clothing.com | @energyclothingstamford #ShopStamford

NEW BOOK FROM LOCAL AUTHOR

Local author Samuel Jardine’s debut novel ‘Komodo’ blends romance, adventure and environmental themes in a gripping Indonesian island setting, exploring one woman’s journey to overcome the past and find strength. Available in paperback (Troubador Publishing, £9.95) and eBook from 28 August.

Professional Design Service

In-Store Consultations available Home Design Service, by Appointment

Visit our website www.sarahhardinginteriors.co.uk

Wide range of accessories to complete your chosen look! @sarahhardinginteriorsltd

6 MARKET PLACE UPPINGHAM RUTLAND LE15 9QH 01572 823389 info@sarahhardinginteriors.co.uk • www.facebook.com/sarahhardinginteriorsltd

5 The Maltings, Mill Street, Oakham, Rutland, LE15 6EA T: 01572 722666 E: heidi@heidikjeldsen.co.uk

Image courtesy of William Yeoward

A truly bespoke service with our in-house design team. Manufacturing custom cabinetry, crafted in our Rutland workshops.

dress. £38, & tote handbag, £32, both b boutique by rebecca. strappy sandals by me &em at arch label agency.

The fashion team go to Burghley

well groomed

A 5 St Mary’s Hill, Stamford, Lincolnshire PE9 2DP

T +44 (0)1780 755405 W chameleonboutique.co.uk

E enquiries@chameleonboutique.co.uk _chameleonboutique

orange hermès t-shirt (new), £250, maxmara cashmere cardigan, £60, burgundy leather sunshine cunningham bag, £360, all from arch label agency, with jeans, £40, from b boutique by rebecca, and pumps, £49, anna couture boutique.

‘saminy’cotton blouse, £59, ‘legringou’ knitted gilet, £56, ‘chelsea’ handbag, £109, all from white ginger. scarf, stylist’s own. suede massimo dutti maxi skirt, £80, from arch label agency.

fitted jacket, £42, leopard-print pencil skirt, £38, both b boutique by rebecca. burgundy ganni boots (size 5), £80, arch label agency.

me&em shirt co-ord (shirt, £80, culottes, £100), christian dior trainers, £250, and silk ralph lauren scarf, £60, all from arch label agency. blanket £29.95 from the burghley house shop.

blouse, £125, trousers, £139, jacket £255, all from anna couture boutique. gucci bag, £150, loafers (size 5), £80, both at arch label agency.

Queensgate Reimagined:

Step Into a New Season of Style, Beauty & Discovery

Queensgate is transforming - not just in the brands it offers, but in the experience it provides. With premium fashion, lifestyle, and wellbeing at its heart, this is a destination worth rediscovering.

And just in time. Autumn/Winter 2025 is arriving with bold new trends, elegant layering, and luxurious textures. For those ready to elevate their wardrobe and embrace the season’s must-haves, Queensgate is leading the way.

Where New Season Style Begins

This year’s autumn/winter collections are all about quiet luxury, modern tailoring, and textural contrasts. Think oversized coats in muted camel and slate grey, buttery-soft knits, sharp silhouettes, and head-to-toe tonal dressing.

Favourite brands like H&M, New Look, River Island, and Superdry are stocking up on trend-led pieces that hit the mark on style and affordability. Look out for quilted coats, faux leather trenches, and chunky knitwear in earthy palettes - staples that take you from office to countryside with ease.

Premium Fashion Arrives

But what’s generating real excitement is the upcoming arrival of Frasers and Flannels. This duo of luxury fashion retailers is set to transform the centre’s style credentials.

Frasers will bring its expertly curated edits across designer fashion, accessories and lifestyle, while Flannels delivers contemporary style with an edge — from

cult streetwear labels to runway-ready looks. Expect brands like Off-White, Balenciaga, GANNI, and Isabel Marant. It’s a fashion-forward leap for the centre, and a game-changer for local style-seekers.

Shoppers can also anticipate personalised service, trend advice, and exclusive collaborations that cater to those who see fashion not just as a necessity, but as an expression of self.

The Finishing Touch: Beauty That Glows At Queensgate, beauty takes centre stage — with a dazzling line-up of premium names waiting to be explored.

Inside Boots, you’ll find cult brands like Fenty Beauty, Dior, NYX, and Estée Lauder, alongside iconic skincare favourites including No7 and Liz Earle. Beauty counters from Chanel, Clarins, and Lancôme offer expert advice and a trybefore-you-buy experience that mirrors high-end department stores.

And newly announced: Rituals is coming to Queensgate. Known for its soul-soothing scents, bath rituals, and serene interiors, Rituals offers more than just products — it’s a wellbeing experience. Indulge in a moment of calm this season with their bestselling foaming shower gels, calming candles and gift sets that feel like self-care, wrapped in luxury.

Design for Life: Interiors & Inspiration Autumn isn’t just a time to refresh your wardrobe — it’s also the season to cosy up at home. Queensgate’s homeware stores

provide plenty of inspiration for creating stylish, comforting interiors.

Discover Scandinavian calm at Søstrene Grene, seasonal accents at H&M Home, quirky finds at Flying Tiger, and one-off treasures at TK Maxx Home.

Accessories That Shine

Autumn also calls for refined details — and Queensgate’s jewellery and watch retailers deliver. Discover timeless elegance at Goldsmiths, TAG Heuer and Beaverbrooks, or opt for sparkle and trend-driven pieces at Pandora, Swarovski, and Lovisa, the latest addition to the centre’s line-up.

Rediscover What’s Waiting

This autumn/winter, Queensgate invites you to reimagine your seasonal rituals — from wardrobe updates and beauty resets to stylish interiors and wellbeing indulgences. Whether you’re browsing for pleasure or building your ultimate capsule wardrobe, the centre offers a beautifully curated retail experience, where every detail is considered.

This isn’t just shopping. This is Queensgate, reimagined.

Visit www.queensgate-shopping.co.uk or follow @Queensgate_PB for the latest updates. www.facebook.co.uk/queensgate www.twitter.com/Queensgate_PB www.instagram.com/queensgate_pb

stella mccartney silk dress, £100, arch label agency, ‘velami’ navy gilet, £54, white ginger.

cowl-neck cardigan

ralph lauren (brand new with tags), £250, arch label agency.

FASHION AT BURGHLEY: WELL GROOMED

STOCKISTS

THANKS

Anna Couture Boutique

17 St Mary’s Street, Stamford PE9 2DG @anna.couture.boutique

Arch Label Agency

43 St Paul’s Street, Stamford PE9 2BH @archlabelagency | www.archlabelagency.com

B Boutique by Rebecca

7 St Paul’s Street, Stamford PE9 2BE @bboutique756 | bboutiquebyrebecca.com

White Ginger

7 High Street St Martin’s, Stamford PE9 2LF @whitegingeruk | www.white-ginger.com

above: as before, with ralph lauren jacket (size s), £150, from arch label agency.

right: dress, bag and sandals as before, with knitted polo tank, £50, from arch label agency.

A big thank you to our talented photographer Tim Steele, www.timsteelephotography.co.uk, @timsteelephoto and stylist Sally Stillingfleet/ @flowerfile for creating this beautiful feature.

Huge thanks, too, to Elysia ( @elysiacostanzo) for modelling for us so wonderfully and to the team at Burghley for letting us use the House and parkland as the gorgeous location for our shoot. Find out more about Burghley and what’s on at @burghleyhouse | burghley.co.uk

For our feature on Defender Burghley Horse Trials, 4–7 September 2025 at Burghley House, see p66.

Orangeries, garden rooms, conservatories, windows and doors. From design through to completion.

Pat Porter

a major new exhibition at goldmark gallery

This month Goldmark Gallery in Uppingham will unveil a revelatory exhibition of paintings by the late Pat Porter (1944–2022), a profoundly gifted artist whose work was largely unseen during her lifetime but is now set to receive the acclaim it deserves. Readers will be delighted learn that this rare talent lived her later years in the village of Empingham. The exhibition (free admission), entitled ‘Pat Porter: A Hidden Light’, is on from 27 September to 19 October

PAT PORTER was married to the more widely recognised artist Tony Porter whom she met whilst they were both studying at the Slade School of Fine Art. Goldmark Gallery had worked with Tony on and off over the years, so it was natural that, a couple of years after Pat’s death [and Tony’s in 2023], family members asked the gallery for advice. Mike Goldmark takes up the tale: ‘I was aware that Pat painted, but when I visited the house and studio in Empingham, I was knocked out by what I saw. This was real art: honest, evolved and extraordinarily beautiful.’ Though Tony’s large-scale watercolours brought him more public attention during his lifetime, Pat pursued her own quieter, more meticulous path, creating subtle, luminous compositions of everyday objects – particularly ceramics – in her studio. She did this whilst bring up four children: Sarah, Sophie [now Sophie Greenway], Chlöe and Charlie.

Charlie Porter, a celebrated author and journalist, comments: ‘Being an artist was central to our mother’s life. She made art every day, even if it was just a sketch. Art was integral to how she saw the world, how she lived, and how she evolved with time. Her work should have been exhibited more widely in her lifetime, it frustrated and saddened her that it wasn’t. It’s extraordinary to us now that her work, from across the decades, will finally begin to be seen.’

The writer and cultural critic, Olivia Laing met Pat on a few occasions and visited the studio once in Pat’s lifetime and again after her death. Writing in Luncheon magazine shortly after Pat’s passing, Laing made a comparison with Cézanne and added: ‘what struck me was the keeness of the vision, the desire to capture a particular physical object at a particular moment in time, before the light shifted and the uncanny clarity fell away.’

‘An extraordinary body of work’

Mike Goldmark

EXHIBITION FILM

A special documentary, produced by the award-winning Goldmark Films, featuring interviews with the Porter siblings, will be released to coincide with the exhibition.

goldmark gallery, 14 orange street uppingham le15 9sq 01572 821424 | info@goldmarkart.com

www.goldmarkart.com goldmark.tv | @goldmarkart

OPPOSITE, ABOVE & RIGHT: a selection of paintings by Pat Porter, whose exhibition at Goldmark Gallery launches on 27 September.

BELOW: Pat Porter.

SEPTEMBER

3–6

THEATRE

The 39 Steps: Stamford Shoestring at Stamford Arts Centre

WHAT’S ON

Wed–Sat evenings at 7.45pm, Sat matinee at 2.30pm £12 (£10 conc)

A madcap mash-up of Hitchcock, hilarity and hi-jinks. Four actors from the Arts Centre’s resident theatre company morph into over 100 outrageous characters in a breakneck adventure featuring runaway trains, flying bullets, vanishing fingers, handcuffs and a dash of romance.

CINEMA

Cinema for Rutland at Rutland County Museum

7.30pm, £7.50

September’s Cinema for Rutland film is James Mangold’s ‘A Complete Unknown’ (15), the true story behind the rise of one of the most iconic singer‐songwriters in history. Timothée Chalamet stars and sings as Bob Dylan. Tickets are available from Oakham Wines or wegottickets.com

4–7

SPORTING HIGHLIGHT

Defender Burghley Horse Trials

See p66 for our feature on this year’s event.

FOOD & DRINK

Wine Tasting at The Pickled Shop

6.30–8.30pm, £30pp

Camille and her fabulous team at The Pickled Shop in Bulwick are holding a fine wine tasting with Abingdon Fine Wine’s Gus McLean. Something of a legend in the wine industry and among his clients, Gus has a background as the ‘fine wine chap’ at Laithwaites/Direct Wines, and this has stood him in good stead as he has branched out in his own.

Though his first loves are Bordeaux and Burgundy, Gus chooses wine with an open mind and a finely tuned palate. He’s bringing a special selection to The Pickled Shop this September. Tickets are very limited, so book now via the ‘online shop’ drop-down menu at abingdonfinewine.com.

6 EXHIBITION

Northants & Rutland Open

Studios (NROS) at Lamport Hall NROS is on throughout the month (see p44). The Central Exhibition at Lamport Hall is from 6 Sep to 4 Oct, Wed–Sun 10am–4pm, free

EXHIBITION

Quiet Moments – Jane Hooper at The Rutland Gallery

Until 20 Sep, daily 10.30am–4pm, free An exhibition of still life paintings by British artist Jane Hooper. Everyday domestic objects rendered in a muted palette, revealing beauty in simplicity.

LIVE MUSIC

Chamber Music Concert No.3: Cello & Piano Duo at St Martin’s Church, Stamford

7.30pm, £20 adults, £15 under 18s, £1 for under 12s (incl. refreshments)

The third concert in Stamford String’s Chamber Music Concert Series promises to be a magical evening of romantic classics for the cello and piano, featuring Michael Petrov and Rosie Richardson. For full details, see our interview with Michael Petrov on p40. Book with Stamford Strings or Stamford Arts Centre.

6&7

CAR SHOW

Land Rover Owners Show at Belvoir Castle

From 9am each day, advance tickets adult £18, child aged 5–15 £10, under 5s free (on the day:£25/£15/free), charges for parking and off-road sessions; see online for details. Camping also available. Get ready for an unforgettable weekend, as the LRO Show rolls into the grounds of Belvoir Castle! Whether you’re a dedicated Land Rover enthusiast or simply love the thrill of off-road adventure, this is the ultimate celebration of all things Land Rover. Explore a display of classic and modern Land Rovers, browse the UK’s biggest collection of 4×4 trade stands and see live action in the off-road arena. From restoration inspiration to accessories galore, there’s something for every level of fan. lroshow.com

9 TALK

Authors in Oundle at St Peter’s Church: Otto English/Notorious 7.45–8.45pm, £8–9

Across the centuries, individuals and groups have been cast as the source of the world’s ills, their legacies shaped by myth and agenda. In his latest book, ‘Notorious’ published in May 2025, Otto English (the pen name of writer and journalist Andrew Scott) re-examines figures of villany from Judas to the Illuminati, exposing how such ‘truths’ are constructed. He will be in conversation with Oundle School’s Ian Clark, revealing how the past continues to influence the present.

12 LIVE MUSIC

A Tribute to Elvis with Nick Pacey at Belvoir Castle 5–9pm, £15

This summer, the King of Rock and Roll returns in spirit to Belvoir Castle for a tribute concert honouring Elvis Presley’s 90th birthday. Prepare for an unforgettable evening of live music, nostalgia and heartfelt homage, led by Elvis tribute artist, Nick Pacey with a live band. This open-air performance will take you on a journey through the golden eras of Elvis’s career, from his early hits to his Las Vegas glory days.

13 LIVE MUSIC

Music in Lyddington at St Andrew’s Church

7.30pm; tickets £20 (£5 under 25s), plus booking fee from wegottickets.com

The September concert in Lyddington features pianist Jâms Coleman and soprano Claire Booth. Entitled ‘Wilkommen, Bienvenue, Welcome’, the evening will be a cabaret programme with music by Ives, Marlew, Gershwin, Schoenberg, Weill and Poulenc. musicinlyddington.co.uk

EXHIBITION

Yoji Yamada at Goldmark Free

Launching on 13 September and running through October, Goldmark Gallery is holding an exciting new ceramics exhibition by the renowned Shigaraki-based potter Yoji Yamada. Although born and based in Japan Yamada was an apprentice

VENUES

to another Goldmark stalwart, the great potter Lisa Hammond MBE, from 2007 to 2008 . He is a master of wood-fired ceramics, and his pots feature beautifully textured finishings complemented by spontaneous linework. Yamada will be travelling from Japan to attend the opening which will feature an ‘in conversation’ session with the gallery founder Mike Goldmark. This will be followed by a Q&A with attendees. Visitors to the opening will also be treated to a light buffet lunch.

A showcase of the work of Pat Porter is also on at Goldmark this September (see p24).

TALK

Authors in Conversation: Jamie Butterworth at Rutland Nursery 6.15–8.30pm, £35 (incl. refreshments) Plantsman, author and the man who created Monty Don’s ‘RHS Dog Garden’ at Chelsea Flower Show this year, Jamie Butterworth will be sharing planting and gardening inspiration, as well as telling us more about his new book, entitled ‘What Grows Together’, with garden designer, author and media consultant, Chris Young. Jamie is one of the UK’s youngest and most innovative nursery owners, having established Form Plants in Surrey in 2020. He is also the newest face on BBC2 Gardeners’ World television programme.

CULTURE, EVENTS, WORKSHOPS

• Barnack Cricket Club Walcott Road, Barnack PE9 3EU, barnack.play-cricket.com

• Belvoir Castle Grantham, NG32 1PA, 01476 871001, www.belvoircastle.com

• Burghley House Stamford PE9 3JY, 01780 752451, burghley.co.uk

• Easton Walled Gardens Grantham, NG33 5AP, 01476 530063, visiteaston.co.uk

• Goldmark Gallery 14 Orange Street, Uppingham LE15 9SQ, 01572 821424, goldmarkart.com

• Lamport Hall Lamport, Northants NN6 9HD, 01604 686272, lamporthall.co.uk (for nros.co.uk)

• Oakham School Chapel Chapel Close, Market Place, Oakham LE15 6DT, oakham.rutland.sch.uk

• The Pickled Shop15 Main St, Bulwick, Northants NN17 3DY, 01780 450774, thepickledshop.com

• The Rutland Gallery High Street East, Uppingham LE15 9PY, 01572 510048, rutlandgallery.com

• Rutland Nursery Lyndon Road, Manton, Rutland LE15 8RN, 01572 498720, rutlandnursery.co.uk

• St Andrew’s Church Church Lane, Lyddington, Rutland LE15 9LN, musicinlyddington.co.uk

• St Martin’s Church High Street St Martin’s Stamford PE9 2LF, stmartinstamford.org

• St Peter’s Church North Street, Oundle, Peterborough PE8 4AL, oundlestpeters.org.uk

• Stamford Arts Centre 27 St Mary’s Street, Stamford PE9 2DL, 01780 763203, stamfordartscentre.com

• Wingates Gallery 44a St Mary’s Rd, Market Harborough LE16 7DU, 01858 465455, wingatesgallery.co.uk

SEPTEMBER

There is an amazing line up this autumn in the Authors in Conversation Series. Full details are on Rutland Nursery’s website, but for a heads-up, dates/authors are as follows: 2 Oct: Sarah GerrardJones (The Plant Rescuer); 16 Oct: Sabrina Ghayour (author of Persiana/Persiana Easy); 28 Oct: Mark Diacono (food writer, cook, gardener); 6 Nov: Thomasina Miers (co-founder of Wahaca, columnist, author of nine cookbooks); and 12 Nov: Michael Perry (Mr Plant Geek).

19 EVENING EVENT

21 LIVE JAZZ

The Misha Mullov-Abbado Group in Goldmark Front Room 8pm (doors open at 7.30pm), £30

WHAT’S ON

Eats + Beats at Rutland Nursery 7–11pm, £35 per person, over 18s only Rutland Nursery’s fabulous ‘Eats + Beats’ is back for an end of summer party. Reserve a table for 2, 3, 4, 6 or 8 people, or an individual ticket to join a mixed solos table. Choose to be seated at 7pm, with food served from 7.45pm, or at 7.30pm, with food served from 8.15pm. Tickets include a gin cocktail or mocktail on arrival, plus ‘eats’ from a freshly prepared Mexican-inspired menu. Expect great vibes all round.

20 BEER FESTIVAL

Barnack Beer Festival at Barnack Cricket Club

From midday, entry fee tbc (see the website and socials for updates)

The new Barnack Beer Festival is a community celebration bringing together the finest local ales, food and village spirit in the heart of this historic village. Organised in partnership with Barnack Cricket Club, the festival celebrates both our local brewing heritage and sporting traditions. barnackbeers.co.uk

The Misha Mullov-Abbado Group is made up of some of the finest, multi-award-winning musicians in London, and under Misha’s direction the group performs his original compositions and arrangements with a broad variety of influences. These influences include classical giants such as Bach and Bartok, and an evening of jazz with swing, samba, funk and fusion delight seems guaranteed.

The band has performed at prestigious jazz and classical festivals across the UK, as well as undertaking overseas ventures to France, Switzerland, Italy, Belgium and Mexico. London highlights include the Southbank Centre, King’s Place, Vortex and Barbican Centre.

24 ART WORKSHOP

Block-Printing Workshop at Easton Walled Gardens 10am–12.30pm, £65 (incl. materials) Founder of Haveli Diaries, Isabela Streeter, is hosting an Indian Block Printing Workshop for beginners at Easton Walled Gardens.

Haveli Diaries is a brand rooted in Indian craftsmanship and inspired by

the beauty of nature. You will explore the centuries-old technique of block printing and, with inspiration from the flora in the gardens at Easton, produce your own cushion cover.

25 LIVE MUSIC

IKON Singers & David Hill at Oakham School Chapel

7.30pm, £20, free for school-age children

This concert promises an exciting evening of choral music in Oakham School Chapel. The programme includes Howells’ Requiem and an arrangement of his solo song, King David, for choir and piano, as well as the UK première of John Rutter’s Dancing Tree, a set of eight songs that draws upon the poetry of Cornish writer Charles Causley. Conducted by David Hill, the professional singers of IKON will be accompanied by Anne Bolt. Young musicians from Oakham School and Rutland Youth Choirs will also perform.

27 ART EVENT

Caroline Deighton at Wingates Gallery in Market Harborough 10am–4pm, free

The artist Caroline Deighton will be working on several paintings at different stages in the gallery, and you are invited to watch her at work. Hear about her inspiration, technique and experience. See also p47.

RIGHT: The Misha Mullov-Abbado Group – coming to Goldmark Gallery’s Front Room this month.

Rutland Sinfonia

Celebrating 50 years

Rutland may be England’s smallest county, but when it comes to orchestral music it stands tall, with a reputation that extends far beyond the county’s borders. For 50 years, Rutland Sinfonia has been delighting audiences, and the 2025–2026 season, which kicks off this October, is the orchestra’s golden anniversary. Editor Clare Rudd-Jones spoke to its Musical Director Paul Hilliam, Chair Rachel Rayner, and long-time player and former Chair, Andy Cotton, about the joy of playing in the orchestra, the spirit of the ensemble and what lies ahead over this special milestone season and beyond

RUTLAND SINFONIA was founded in 1975 by Barry Collett, then a music teacher at Uppingham Community College and later Rutland Sixth Form College, giving its first concert in January 1976. Barry’s ambition was to create a home for local musicians to perform the kind of repertoire rarely heard outside major cities and it proved a winning formula – players were drawn from a wide catchment, including Leicestershire, Lincolnshire, Northamptonshire and Cambridgeshire, as well, of course, as Rutland. Under his baton, the orchestra performed not only familiar works by the greats, but also lesser-known pieces and even world premieres.

The Sinfonia played regular seasons locally and also performed at prestigious events including two concerts at the Malvern Festival and an Elgar Birthday Concert in Worcester Cathedral. Barry was an Elgar scholar, for which he was awarded The Elgar Society Medal, and over the years he and the Sinfonia performed the entire orchestral opus of Elgar’s music. He even made a commercial recording of Elgar’s Powick Asylum Music, the first modern performance of this previously unexplored work, which was later broadcast worldwide.

‘Rutland Sinfonia is a dynamic and thriving ensemble that continues to draw high-calibre musicians and appreciative audiences from our region and beyond’

FAR LEFT: performing in Oakham School Chapel, the venue for two concerts each season – with the other two being held in St Peter’s Church in Oundle.

LEFT: Rutland Sinfonia in the 1970s, with founder and conductor Barry Collett seen in the centre front.

CENTRE LEFT: brilliant brass.

CENTRE RIGHT: the orchestra’s current Musical Director, conductor Paul Hilliam.

BOTTOM: strings close-up.

Barry passed away in 2020, but his legacy continues. Today, Rutland Sinfonia is a dynamic and thriving ensemble that continues to draw high-calibre musicians and appreciative audiences from our region and beyond.

What makes the Rutland Sinfonia special?

For a local orchestra, Rutland Sinfonia plays to a remarkable standard and enjoys an impressive reputation, with its players stemming from numerous counties, just as in the early days. When I ask if a shout-out for musicians is required, Musical Director Paul Hilliam tells me: ‘We’re mostly oversubscribed, which is a very agreeable position to be in. It’s a bit like being a Premiership football club, where you have wonderful players in action on the pitch, with plenty of stars sitting in waiting on the benches as well.’ Andy Cotton, who has played in the orchestra for an incredible 40+ years and served as Chair for five of those, picks up on this point: ‘The standard has always been excellent, but under Paul it has gone up a gear.’ He smiles. ‘I would say that one of my key achievements as Chair was finding Paul.’

As we chat, it’s clear that the players all demonstrate great dedication to their time with the orchestra, both in concerts and also rehearsals. ‘You have to be totally focused on the music,’ says Andy. ‘It demands your full attention. We make a wonderful sound, of course, but playing at this level takes you out of your daily life and preoccupations. This mindful aspect of playing is part of what makes it so rewarding.’

This idea is echoed by the current Chair of the orchestra, Rachel Rayner, who joined the Sinfonia around 13 years ago and has been head of the group of Trustees for around a decade. Rachel recalls, ‘After quite a long break from playing, I had a very demanding job and I needed an outlet that was just for me. It was at this point that I joined the Sinfonia and it gave me a way back into music and a focus away from work. It was exactly what I needed and I’m still so grateful. It’s not merely an orchestra,’ she continues. ‘It’s a community.’

There’s so clearly a sense of shared joy among the players. I learn that many of them have played with the orchestra for decades, some since its earliest days, and in a few cases it is multi-generational. ‘It’s very telling that people stay,’ says Paul. ‘On one level, there is the enjoyment of playing as an ensemble to a high standard, but there’s also the important social side of being in the orchestra. Rutland Sinfonia is one of the most welcoming and friendly groups I’ve ever been part of.’ He continues: ‘It’s so fabulous during the rehearsal process when we all reach the point when everything just clicks and you feel the music lift off the page. It’s a marvellous feeling.’

What is the secret to creating a successful programme?

According to Paul, it’s about balance. ‘You have to challenge players, of course – but they also need to feel supported and inspired, whether that’s with brand new music or a lesser-known piece from the repertoire. We are increasingly performing works by female composers – mirroring a wider shift in the classical genre – and this has opened up a whole world of new music to players and audiences.’

Paul continues: ‘We are also incredibly fortunate to attract exceptional soloists to perform with us. We have two long-standing Musical Patrons – pianist Robert Markham, who has won numerous prizes at major international competitions and is a phenomenal performer, and cellist Eduardo Vassallo, who is Principal Cello of the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra and a delight to play with. Both are performing as part of our anniversary season.’

Highlights for a Golden Year

Rachel tells me about the upcoming anniversary season, with four concerts from October 2025 to June 2026. ‘To celebrate our 50 years, we’ve put together a wonderfully varied programme, with something for everyone. We’ve got blockbuster concerts – operatic favourites and music from film – plus beautiful pieces from the classic repertoire, and some emotional highlights that give a nod to our roots, so Elgar in our concert finale in June 2026.’

Across four concerts – two in Oakham, two in Oundle, as is the usual pattern –the Sinfonia’s golden anniversary will be marked by brilliance, conviviality and fond memories. The season opens with a musical crowd-pleaser: Grieg’s Piano Concerto, played by Robert Markham. ‘Robert brings such warmth and energy,’ says Paul, ‘such incredibly accomplished playing. It’s a wonderful way to launch the season.’

The second concert, in November, is entitled A Night at the Opera, and features a mix of famous arias and duets as well as orchestral pieces from opera. ‘I’m especially looking forward to playing in this concert,’ says Rachel. ‘It’s not often we get to work with singers, and it’s sure to bring a different energy to the performance.’

Then, in March 2026, there’s The Sound of Hollywood, a film music spectacular. ‘We did something similar a couple of years ago and the audience absolutely loved it,’ says Paul.

And to close the season? A tribute to the orchestra’s founder, Barry Collett himself. ‘We knew we had to include Elgar,’ says Paul, ‘so we’ll finish with the Enigma Variations.’ Barry loved the English composers, so the Elgar is paired with Vaughan Williams. To keep things fresh, the orchestra will be performing a contemporary work by Becky Taylor, one of the first violinists in the orchestra. She is so thrilled to have the opportunity to have her piece performed and it is wonderful to showcase new music by a young composer.’ ‘Expect there to be tears at this season finale!’ concludes Rachel.

Not only are we celebrating 50 years of incredible concerts with this Golden Anniversary season, but 50 years of shared experience. For a tiny county like Rutland to sustain an orchestra of this calibre is no small thing and it’s a wonderful part of the cultural offering in our region. Huge congratulations to all involved on reaching this wonderful milestone – and here’s to the next half a century of glorious music from the Sinfonia.

you can buy tickets now for rutland sinfonia’s 2025–26 season. with standout soloists, imaginative programming and a real sense of occasion, this is a musical milestone not to be missed.

tickets are available from the sinfonia’s website, ticketsource, oakham wines & the oundle bookshop. adults £16 (advance), £18 (on the door); under 18s/ full-time students £5. www.rutlandsinfonia.org.uk | @rutland_sinfonia

Rutland Sinfonia Celebrating 50

years

2025–2026 SEASON

50th anniversary

oakham school chapel saturday 4 october, 7.30pm grieg piano concerto

robert markham piano paul hilliam conductor

schubert overture rosamunde grieg piano concerto beethoven symphony no.5

st peter’s church, oundle saturday 22 november, 7.30pm a night at the opera

jenny saunders soprano

david morris tenor

paul hilliam conductor

a selection of opera favourites including: verdi force of destiny overture, bizet carmen overture, puccini nessun dorma from turandot, dvořák song to the moon from rusalka, bernstein tonight from west side story, mascagni intermezzo from cavalleria rusticana, puccini finale act 1 from la bohème

oakham school chapel saturday 14 march 2026, 7.30pm the sound of hollywood

david calow conductor

a concert of movie soundtracks from harry potter, jurassic park, war horse, wicked, beauty and the beast, pirates of the caribbean and more with a star wars finale

st peter’s church, oundle saturday 6 june 2026, 7.30pm elgar enigma variations

eduardo vassallo cello

paul hilliam conductor

vaughan williams the wasps overture becky taylor fantasy dvořák cello concerto elgar enigma variations

Associate Conductor

David Calow

OAKHAM SCHOOL CHAPEL

Saturday 4thOctoberat 7.30pm

Beethoven Symphony No. 5

Schubert Rosamunde Overture

historic concert season in England’s historic county A

Robert Markham piano

ST PETER’S CHURCH, OUNDLE

Saturday 22ndNovemberat 7.30pm

of opera

from The Force of Destiny, Carmen, Turandot, Rusalka, WestSideStory, CavalleriaRusticana, La Bohème and more

JennySaunders soprano

DavidMorris tenor Paul Hilliam conductor

Paul Hilliam conductor

•Available

Michael Petrov

With a dazzling international career behind him, cellist Michael Petrov has performed on some of the world’s most prestigious stages. Now living locally, he spoke to Editor Clare Rudd-Jones ahead of his performance in Stamford Strings’ chamber music concert this month

Tell us a little about your musical background and how you came to play the cello?

Both of my parents were pianists – my dad was a jazz pianist and my mum a classical pianist. My brother is also a classical pianist. So becoming a professional musician was always on the cards! I started playing the cello aged four, and moved to this country as a boy to attend the Yehudi

Menuhin School in Surrey. After that, I studied at London’s Guildhall School of Music, which my brother also attended.

From 2013 I was supported by the Young Classical Artists Trust, and my career really took off from there, both as an international soloist and as part of the award-winning Trio Isimsiz. I continued performing internationally until Covid hit in 2020 and brought everything to a halt.

About YCAT: Founded in 1984, the Young Classical Artists Trust (YCAT) supports the early careers of musicians, so that they can go on to move generations of audiences around the world with their talent.Michael was a YCAT artist from 2013 until 2018. The Trust has supported some of the biggest names in classical music and continues to work with rising stars. For more information, visit www.ycat.co.uk

photo: kaupo kikkas

‘Becoming a professional musican was always on the cards!’

You have enjoyed an astonishing career – which readers can read about more, in the panel, right. Are there any particular highlights you’d like to pick out? I especially loved playing as a soloist with orchestras, but to be honest I just loved the whole experience. I was doing full seasons at top venues and travelling internationally all the time. I just really, really enjoyed it.

What brought you to this region?

When Covid hit, I had to retrain – concerts stopped and the whole arts scene came to a standstill. My wife also retrained – as a teacher – and she got a teaching post locally, which brought us up here from London about two years ago. We’re now based in the Stamford area.

Tell us about your link with Stamford Strings.

After we’d moved here, I needed a rehair for my cello bow and wasn’t sure where to go in this region – I’d always gone to specialists in London. I googled ‘Is there a luthier near here?’ and up popped Stamford Strings, run by Libby Summers! At the time, Libby was based on St Leonard’s Street; she now has bigger premises on High Street St Martin’s.

The shop is such a welcoming space for the wider community – being able to walk into a place like that is incredible. It’s much larger than most of the specialist instrument shops in London. And now I’m very happy to be part of the new Chamber Music Concert Series that Libby established this year.

Tell us more about the concert.

I’ll be performing with the pianist Rosie Richardson, who I’ve known since our time at the Guildhall. We’ve played together since 2009, done competitions and travelled around Europe. It’ll be such a pleasure to perform with Rosie in Stamford.

Libby asked me to put together the programme for the concert. Rosie and I have performed the Chopin before – it always goes down a treat. I believe there’s now a very good piano in the church, which is fantastic for Rosie. We’re also performing songs by Rachmaninov – two of them are originally for piano and voice. They’re stunning – like three-Michelin-star starters! Often, there’s a main piece (like a main course!) and then lighter, shorter pieces around it. We wanted to include the Chopin, but also bring in other short, exciting and beautiful works.

Before the concert, there’ll be cello demos with instruments from Stamford Strings, so do come along to hear them being played and to enjoy some refreshments. What’s fantastic for Stamford and the region is that Libby plans for the Chamber Music Concert Series to become a regular event – so this season is just the beginning.

stamford strings: chamber music concert series cello & piano duo

michael petrov (cello) rosie richardson (piano)

saturday 6 september, 7.30pm (instrument demos from 6.30pm), at st martin’s church, stamford Rachmaninov Songs arr. for Cello & Piano Chopin Sonata for Cello & Piano op.65

tickets: £20 (under 18s £15, under 12s £1) from stamford strings’ shop at 63 high street st martin’s, stamford pe9 2la, or website, as below: stamfordstrings.co.uk/events | 07376 919766 | @stamfordstrings

You can also buy tickets online at stamfordartscentre.com

ABOUT MICHAEL PETROV

The award-winning cellist Michael Petrov has captured audiences and critics alike with his ‘captivating musical temperament and a direct eloquence, as if speaking through his instrument’ (Die Welt). An ECHO Rising Star in the 2015–16 season, Michael has graced the stages of major concert halls such as the Concertgebouw Amsterdam, Cité de la Musique Paris, Musikverein Vienna, Budapest Palace of Arts, Kölner Philharmonie, and the Laeiszhalle Hamburg. His talent has also taken him to prestigious venues including Carnegie’s Weill Hall and to festivals such as the Los Angeles Cello Festival, with tours extending to China and Argentina.

As a soloist, Michael has performed with the Philharmonia, Bournemouth Symphony, and CBSO Youth Orchestras, alongside the Munich Chamber and English Chamber Orchestras. He has collaborated with esteemed conductors including Edward Gardner and Rory MacDonald. In 2013, he showcased Prokofiev’s Sinfonia Concertante at the Barbican under the baton of Gianandrea Noseda.

Michael’s appearances as a soloist feature memorable performances such as Tchaikovsky’s Rococo Variations with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, the Barber Concerto with the New Symphony Orchestra in Sofia, Bulgaria, and Haydn’s Concerto in D with Sinfonia Cymru. A highlight of his career includes giving the first performance of JR Heath’s Cello Concerto since 1962 at St John’s Smith Square, celebrating the centenary of cellist Kenneth Heath.

A passionate advocate for chamber music, Michael was a key member of the Trio Isimsiz, a group that has received critical acclaim and won a Borletti-Buitoni Trust Fellowship Award in 2018. Their debut CD was released in 2017, and they are a regular feature at prestigious venues and festivals, including the Wigmore Hall, Snape Maltings, Trondheim Chamber Music Festival, Kölner Philharmonie, and the Théâtre des Abbesses in Paris.

Originally from Bulgaria, Michael spent his formative years at the Yehudi Menuhin School and the Guildhall School of Music & Drama under the guidance of Louise Hopkins, where he won the Gold Medal in 2014 and the Wigmore Hall Prize in 2017. His early promise was recognised by the Young Classical Artists Trust in 2013 and underscored by his achievements in competitions, securing 2nd Prize at the 2012 International Brahms Competition in Austria and 1st Prize at the 2011 International Suggia Competition in Porto.

Northants & Rutland Open Studios

Step into studios, barns and pop-ups this September, as over 300 artists throw open their doors for a month of inspiring exhibitions, hands-on workshops and creative surprises across the counties

THIS SEPTEMBER our vibrant local art scene is throwing open its doors as Northants & Rutland Open Studios makes its highly anticipated return. Forget long journeys to big city galleries – this is your chance to discover incredible talent right here in our own community.

With over 300 artists participating across both counties, this year’s festival is set to be bigger and more inspiring than ever. Imagine stepping into cosy garden studios, bustling pop-up exhibitions and even unexpected venues from barns to cafes, all transformed into showcases of creativity. You’ll have the opportunity to chat with artists, see where their magic happens and perhaps even find that perfect original piece to adorn your home.

From stunning paintings and intricate printmaking to beautiful ceramics, textiles and captivating sculptures, there’s an astonishing array of work to explore. And it’s not just about looking – if you fancy getting hands-on, there’s a huge variety of workshops on offer

throughout September. Ever wanted to try your hand at pottery, craft a piece of jewellery or capture our beautiful countryside on canvas? Now’s your chance. As organiser Katie Boyce puts it: ‘You don’t need to be an art expert – just bring your curiosity.’

Kickstart your artistic adventure at the Central Exhibition at Lamport Hall, running from 6 September to 4 October. This curated show offers a fantastic preview of participating artists, helping you plan your studio visits and unearth new favourites.

Full details, including a handy printed brochure and interactive online map, are available to guide you – details below. Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to celebrate the rich artistic talent thriving on our doorstep.

find out more about the artists, when their studios will be open & where to go at: nros.co.uk

OPPOSITE PAGE, CLOCKWISE FROM FAR LEFT: Angela Harding’s ‘Blossomise’; Nicolas Moreton at work; ceramic bowl by Emma Swales.

THIS PAGE, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: work by Teresa Williams, Alex Bernham, Marika du Plessis, Alyssa Robinson & Heidi Clawson.

‘You don’t need to be an expert –just bring your curiosity’

Arts & Culture in Harborough

Heading up our focus on arts and culture in the Harborough area, Andrew Cartwright, owner of Wingates Gallery, chatted to John Richardson, Chief Executive of Harborough District Council (HDC), asking why arts and culture are so important to him

What brought you to be Chief Executive of HDC?

After losing my father at an early age, my mum thought it was a good idea for me to be distracted by joining a local football club. It worked. This triggered my life’s passion for sport, which has evolved to include all things leisure and culture.

A degree in Recreational Management at Sheffield Hallam University turned my passion into a career, with my first job at Snibston Discovery Park Museum tour guiding school children around the galleries. This was followed by a trainee position at North West Leicestershire District Council. It didn’t take long for me to realise how important arts, culture and leisure were for people and communities, supporting not just physical but also mental wellbeing.

My career progressed through working in the Council’s leisure centres, and, after 24 years, I moved to Blaby District Council as Director of Communities. When the role of Chief Executive became available at Harborough District Council, as I live in the district and play in the district, why not work for the district? Eighteen months into the job and I love it, no regrets. Every day I am driven to make it the very best it can be, for my community.

So, what does the Chief Executive actually do?

As an appointed position rather than elected, I deliver the priorities of the political administration and ensure we deliver services for all our residents. One of the council’s priorities is ‘community’, including support for leisure, sport, art and culture, which aligns perfectly with my passion. Day to day, I support my amazing team, focusing on the needs of our residents, listening, and delivering the best services we can within our budget limitations.

Throughout my career, engaging with communities has been hugely important to me, which is why one of my first decisions was to build a Community Engagement team. As part of this team’s responsibilities, we are providing £1 million of grants annually to groups across the Harborough District to many leisure, arts and cultural groups.

Another focus is ensuring our parks, leisure centres and community facilities are in great shape, accessible and used regularly by all. We have so many opportunities to be involved with sport, leisure, arts and culture that it is no surprise that Harborough continues to be voted one of the best and happiest places to live in the country. In my view, this is due to the strength of our communities, high levels of volunteering and community activities.

We offer our community spaces for cultural events including Arts Fresco, Farmers’ Markets, Artisan Fairs, Christmas Markets and Late Night Shopping, to name a few. The Council has also recently purchased 133 acres of land on the edge of Great Bowden to create one of the region’s largest rewilding projects (publicly accessible), restoring a nature-depleted area on a nationally significant scale and supported by the Leicestershire and Rutland Wildlife Trust.

So, what does the Harborough District have to offer arts and culture?

We are so fortunate to have so many organisations and a rich heritage and history in the district. It is one of the reasons we developed the Market Harborough Cultural Quarter around St Dionysius Church, Harborough Theatre, The Old Grammar School and the Symington Building – four cultural assets – creating a centrepiece for cultural activities including busking, dance and other performance, all to benefit the community and businesses. We are regularly supporting organisations such as Creative Harborough, schools and community groups. We realise that by working with all cultural groups, the sum will be greater than each individual part. Harborough District Council is proud of our arts and culture, but for me personally it’s about bringing people and communities together – the laughter, the smiles, the experiences. It is a great medicine and antidote to some of life’s pressures.

for more information on groups & activities, visit www.creativeharborough.org

RIGHT: John Richardson, Chief Executive of Harborough District Council, is ‘driven to make my community the best it can be’.

Live Paint at Wingates Gallery featuring Caroline Deighton and her positive, uplifting art

Saturday 27th September 10-4pm

You are all invited to come and watch this fabulous artist paint in her wonderfully quirky style here at Wingates Gallery in Market Harborough.

Caroline will be working on several paintings at different stages and customers will be able to watch them develop, hear about her inspiration, technique and experience of being an artist selling her original work across the UK.

The style that Caroline is known for originates from memories of travels around the UK, from being a keen walker and hiker with her black Labrador, Fletcher, who also appears in many of her paintings.

We look forward to seeing you for this unique experience with Caroline Deighton on 27th September.

44a St Mary’s Road, Market Harborough LE16 7DU 10-6pm Tuesday to Saturday Tel: 01858 465455

www.wingatesgallery.co.uk

Whether you want to give new life to your existing living spaces or you are about to embark on your dream property renovation project, aluhome has the finest brands of contemporary and traditional glazing systems available, creating light, space and a new way of living.

Inspired

Inspirational products that deliver the very essence of individuality for the more discerning client.

Reﬁned

Beautifully crafted aluminium products made with precision giving your home distinction with our luxury collection.

Bespoke

From first thought, our detailed advice, guidance and expert installation, will deliver architectural glazing that’s always distinctive, elegant & bespoke assured.

Visit our new Aluminium studio in the heart of Stamford and be inspired

Gooches Court, Stamford Meadows, Stamford, Lincolnshire, PE9 2RE 01780 723864, 07831 786387, www.aluhomes.co.uk, sales@aluhomes.co.uk

Seven Bespoke Joinery

Amander Meade met with Seven Bespoke Joinery, who represent the pinnacle of craftsmanship in contemporary bespoke woodworking

SEAMLESSLY BLENDING time-honoured joinery skills with innovative technology and the highest-quality materials, the expanding team at Seven Bespoke Joinery offer both domestic and commercial clients the very best in visionary design and traditional expertise supported by a powerful dedication to their craft.

‘Originating in the partnership of two smaller carpentry businesses based in Stamford, Seven Bespoke Joinery is enjoying the next stage in our natural expansion,’ explains Managing Director, Matt Leeton. ‘Our journey began with a small team of craftspeople dedicated to creating bespoke solutions for domestic clients, and our dedication to those original values remains as steadfast as ever.’ The company’s growth allows them to now include high-end commercial and hospitality commissions including the shop and restaurant at Rutland Nursery in Manton, which benefit in no small part from the stunning natural, contemporary environment created by Matt and his team.

Crucial to their ongoing success, Matt believes, is the dedicated team of specialists who are all employed in house with no contractors involved. ‘We maintain a design team, master joiners, finishers and installation specialists all under one roof. We are 14 in number now and expanding. Having everyone in house allows for knowledge shared and individual expertise being continually developed as well as a welcome feeling of consistency and collaboration on each and every project which is always appreciated by our clients.’

The Process

Typically, after receiving an enquiry, Matt will arrange a site visit to discuss ideas and make accurate measurements before quoting. ‘It’s important to visit the potential customer in person at the site of the work to get a genuine feel for the environment and what it is possible to achieve. Our digital design presentations are the next stage and allow clients to visualise and contribute to design development. I always encourage clients to visit us at our offices, see the workshop in person and witness our team in action. It’s often the best way to demonstrate the unique qualities we can bring to a project. We bring all of our vast experience to bear on each design, making the most of every inch of space available for maximum efficiency and aesthetic and the team involved are best placed to impart that expertise. Clients enjoy seeing their pieces taking shape as well as handling and approving materials and finish samples

before production. The specialist fitting team are the final piece of the puzzle and carry over the quality of workmanship into the handover at the client’s home or workspace.’

Equally important is the high standard of professional courtesy during each on site task with Matt’s teams, ensuring they work with the least disruption to the client – even dusting and vacuuming on completion before they depart.

‘We regularly collaborate with the best interior designers and commercial architects to ensure each client’s wish list is not only achieved but surpassed’

Inventive Innovation

Commissioned to work on homes and businesses across the region and beyond, Seven Bespoke Joinery consistently demonstrate their ability to impeccably combine a hand-crafted approach with cutting-edge CNC machinery, ensuring every piece of wood is cut to maximum accuracy before being expertly fitted by hand to ensure a flawless finish every time. ‘We are continually collaborating with specialist suppliers to explore new options and ensure our finishing techniques guarantee the best durability. We currently use a range of materials that include oak, maple and tulip along with water- 8

OPPOSITE: joinery by Seven Bespoke to a design by Katie Cardew. RIGHT: The View at Rutland Nursery (Photo: Jerry Wesley).

Seven

Bespoke Joinery

based and solvent colour-matched paints and ironmongery by Blum and Häfele, along with other high-end manufacturers. Our aim is always to provide a straightforward transition between the design, manufacturing and installation stages of each project. Our stringent quality-control checks ensure that our clients have expert guidance and peace of mind at all times with any potential issues identified and avoided. The Seven Bespoke service begins when we receive the first enquiry and ends when our post-completion follow up ensures everything is looking, feeling and working exactly as it should.’

Reputation is Everything

Far from offering a standard range of fittings and fixtures, Seven Bespoke Joinery have established their enviable reputation around the bespoke approach they take to each project. ‘Every project is personal and unique, whether we are creating cabinetry for an entire kitchen or providing a media wall in one room. We tailor our design, taking into account the age of the property, its style and the possibilities of each space. We are well known for our ability to take on technically challenging projects that others might consider impossible. We regularly collaborate with the best interior designers and commercial architects to ensure each client’s wish list is not only achieved but surpassed. I’m extremely proud of the passion, experience and artistry our team brings to every project regardless of scale.’

‘Our reputation means everything to us and our unwavering commitment to quality ensures the pieces we create can be enjoyed for generations.’

FIND OUT MORE & GET IN TOUCH:

SEVEN BESPOKE JOINERY, 23 PRINCEWOOD ROAD, CORBY, NORTHANTS NN17 4AP | 01536 808361 SBJ-LTD.CO.UK | @SEVENBESPOKEJOINERY

BELOW: beautiful work by Seven Bespoke Joinery on a recent project in Greatford for Beak Studio.

Cambodia

words: helen dooley, partner of more travel

IHAD BARELY stepped off the plane when the thick, humid air of Cambodia wrapped around me like an old friend.

From the chaotic heartbeat of Phnom Penh to the whispering jungle in the north, this place captivated me instantly.

Nothing could have prepared me for the overwhelming greenness of Cambodia’s countryside – driving out of the city, I watched the landscape open up into endless rice paddies, water buffaloes wading lazily under a burning sun. Then came the jungle. Dense, lush and alive, it pressed in on either side of the narrow roads, hiding ancient secrets in the undergrowth.

Where the tarmac ended, we were picked up by original 1960s’ jeeps left by the Americans and driven deep into the jungle to the utterly delightful Shinta Mani Wild. Here, we ziplined, motorbiked, went on anti-poaching missions, walked the jungle by torchlight, planted orchids and enjoyed one or two spa treatments.

Nestled deep in the jungle, accompanied by the sound of rushing water, the land here is so pristine, so untouched, it felt like something from a myth. But the land in Cambodia doesn’t just speak of nature; it speaks of history. A history both glorious and heartbreaking. You can’t talk about Cambodia without acknowledging the shadow of the Khmer Rouge. I visited the Killing Fields, and the silence there is a thing that stays with you. And yet, even amidst such darkness, the spirit of this country endures. It doesn’t flinch from its past – it engages, it remembers, it mourns and, somehow, finds ways to heal.

That spirit is perhaps most profoundly captured in Angkor Wat. I arrived before dawn, and as the sun slowly crept up behind those

iconic spires, I was struck by the reverence of the place. Not just the architectural beauty – the carvings, the grandeur – but the stillness. Monks in saffron robes moved silently through the stone corridors. A soft chant echoed in the air. Here, the old Cambodia – the spiritual, eternal – speaks in every stone, every carving.

What stays with me the most, though, are the people. Time and again, I was met with smiles that felt unguarded, unfiltered. In a village outside Siem Reap, a woman invited me into her home to show us her home brew. She observed my pale skin and hooted out loud, shouting to her neighbours, when I told her I sprayed myself to try and look more tanned! Children waved from their bicycles as I passed by, shouting ‘hello!’ with a joy so infectious I couldn’t help but laugh.

Cambodia is a land of contrasts – modern tuk-tuks zipping past ancient temples, jungle vines creeping over stone ruins, chanting monks on brightly coloured shopping streets and a people who carry both sorrow and joy in their hearts without losing either. It’s not just a place you visit. It’s a place that changes the way you see.

I stayed at Rosewood Phnom Penh, Shinta Mani Wild & Shinta Mani Angkor. I also visited Raffles Siem Reap and Aman Siem Reap. For the perfect end to busy itinerary, relax for a while on the beautiful Song Saa island.

more travel, 15a st mary’s street, stamford pe9 2df 01780 43333 | www.more-travel.co.uk @moretravelstamford

Bakehouse

Exquisite Bespoke Cabinetry

Nicholas Rudd-Jones chatted with Alan Ramm, founder and creative director of Bakehouse, and stepped inside the new head office and operations base in Rutland

FOUNDED IN 2008, the team at Bakehouse has a unique understanding of the need for a kitchen that truly is at the heart of your home. Bakehouse aren’t just designers, or buyers of products, Bakehouse are a true bespoke manufacturer, in fact pioneering innovators in product design.

Their wealth of knowledge allows them to work seamlessly to create beautiful, accessible spaces with a high level of distinction, sophistication, and materials truly considered for many purposes. They design and manufacture both traditional and contemporary kitchens with sublime architectural detail, sympathetic to the property and its surrounding, but equally by detailed specification via interior architects and interior designers.

All their projects are custom built with fine craftsmanship and meticulous attention to detail. Celebrating the provenance and quality of luxury English design has been central to the Bakehouse mission from day one, always drawing on the traditional methods of joinery to create exceptional quality, long-lasting furniture with enduring style.

Alan and the Bakehouse team integrate traditional English carpentry methods into all bespoke projects to ensure a perfect balance between the old and new, shaping spaces that are expertly crafted to suit modern life. All of the furniture is made in Essendine, Rutland, by a highly skilled team who continually hone their craft to ensure they lead the way in celebrating what makes English luxury bespoke design so special. Bakehouse are affiliates of the Made in Britain organisation, the official trademark for British manufacturers.

Over recent years Bakehouse has grown its business well beyond our region to London, all the Home Counties and often abroad – including some very prestigious locations globally to commissions by ‘A list’ celebrities. They especially came to the design world’s attention through their commission by male model David Gandy to work on his mansion in Richmond, which was featured in Vogue magazine and many other national publications.

The USA has become an important market too after their triumphant participation in the 2025 San Francisco Decorator Showcase. But their heart is here, and they continue to have a thriving local business too, which they are equally passionate about.

Expansion of Workshop and Design Space

I asked Alan about recent changes in client needs. ‘We increasingly find that our clients want to understand and be involved in the whole creative and craft process that goes into making a great kitchen. ‘So, a natural next step for us, rather than operating out of a showroom in the more traditional manner, is to invite clients to our workshop to enable them to visualise firsthand what might be possible for their project. They will see what a handmade process it is, and they will be able to follow a kitchen, perhaps their own kitchen, through the various phases of creation. This will also give the client an appreciation for the natural materials we use versus many of the other synthetic products used in manufacturing today.’

The Design Workshop Space

When I visited the Bakehouse workshop in Essendine, Alan showed me the large spacious presentation room above one of the workshops that allows him and the design team to put forward ideas to a prospective client and show specific options. There is a team of three designers to hand. We then took a look around the workshop itself, beginning with the wood store, an impressive stash of some of the finest woods that money can buy, notably European oak, tulip wood and American black walnut. Bakehouse has become a nationally recognised expert in wood for cabinetry.

We also learnt about the attention the team pays to Volatile Organic Compound (VOC) levels when the cabinetry is built, to ensure the best resulting air quality in kitchens/people’s homes. Bakehouse’s research and development team ensures that their products are low odour in harmful chemicals, hence more than compliant with the Department of Health in California. California’s knowledge and appreciation in low chemical odour is far superior and advanced to ours.

We then met some of the team of talented craftspeople, of whom there are seven altogether. Their work is facilitated by state-of-the-art equipment, including four-sided planers, spindle moulders, a full compliment of sanding equipment plus sanding room, CNCs, edging machines, presses, a spray-booth, a drying bake – and more. It was fascinating seeing work that was partly finished – the quality of the dovetail joints, the sheer attention to detail at every step.

Alan told me that there is typically one assembly – or at most two – taking place at any one time, so an individual client’s commission becomes well known to the team and a very personable touch if a prospective clients would like to experience first-hand the craftmanship before embarking on their journey.

Not Just Kitchens

Whilst Bakehouse is best known for prestigious kitchen cabinetry, they have worked on many installations where they have done several of the rooms, quite often all the rooms in a house, bringing to bear their unique expertise in design and joinery, both contemporary and classical. In fact, as Alan explained, there is typically an aesthetic, practical and financial benefit to working on several tooms at the same time. ‘If it’s wood, we will make it.’

Ambitious Growth Plans

Bakehouse has an ambitious five-year plan, comprising the local market, London and the international market. In California, six large projects have already come through as a result of the San Francisco Decorator Showcase, along with their three Commission case studies in 2024. Alan is supported by an impressively strong board, comprising Chris Fellingham (Chairman and Global Economist), Judith Carter (businesswoman and cofounder of a PLC), Nigel Gittins (Entrepreneur, businessman) and Antony Wright (Chief Financial Officer).

Founder Alan, who has grown the business for 17 years, is behind much of what happens there and is familiar with every detail. So, you can be sure of the best personal attention every step of the way.

if you’d like to explore further what magic bakehouse can create for you, then get in touch and fix an appointment:

bakehouse head office experience centre glen industrial estate essendine, rutland PE9 4LE 01780 767928

hello@bakehousekitchens.co.uk

www.bakehousekitchens.com @bakehousekitchens

Plant for Resilience

With extreme weather the new norm, Garden Designer and BBC Gardeners’ World Presenter Nick Bailey reveals the plants that will thrive despite what the weather throws at them

THIRTY YEARS AGO, we were being told to ready our gardens for drought and a drier future, but that prediction was, let’s say, in the Michael Fish school of accuracy. In fact, the Met Oﬃce released a statement recently saying that extreme and erratic weather is the new normal. Sure, we might be in the midst of a dry summer right now, but the last few years have seen bizarre ﬂuctuations in all directions – barrages of rain at the most unlikely times, extreme wind in summer, excessive rainfall in late summer, autumn and winter. Unpredictable is truly the new normal, and we have no choice but to adapt to this change. Luckily, we have the option to step indoors when things are a bit wild outside, but what about our plants and gardens? They have no escape.

These environmental changes will undoubtedly organically edit and curate what we can grow in our gardens – a polite euphemism for ‘plants that can’t cope will die out.’ So, can we get ahead of the game and adapt our gardens to be resilient to these changes? Well, I for one think we can. I’ve spent my life observing plants both here in the UK and in overseas gardens I’ve managed. And wherever I’ve gardened, I’ve observed fairly similar things. Lawn grass will thrive in the face of the most extreme weathers. From ﬂood to all-out drought, this relative newcomer to the plant kingdom has evolved resilience. Sure, it might temporarily shed its leaves, or they’ll turn yellow, but sure as eggs is eggs, it’ll bounce back when better weather returns. Native plants tend to have greater resilience than those from foreign climes, meaning the likes of our native box, yew, hornbeam honeysuckle, clematis and viburnum will tolerate everything from extreme heat to months of ﬂooding, once established.

Weathering the Storm: Plants That Can Take It All

But which of the more ornamental and productive garden plants have extreme resilience? Well, the good news is that there are quite a few. On the perennial front, plants such

‘The last few years have seen bizarre ﬂuctuations in all directions – barrages of rain at the most unlikely times, extreme wind in summer, excessive rainfall in late summer, autumn and winter’

as Rudbeckia hirta (a cheery yellow daisy), Bergenia cordifolia (pink-flowered large-leafed groundcover), daffodil cultivars and Persicaria affinis (a semi-evergreen ground cover with multitonal pink spiked flowers) will all cope with the worst the weather can hurl at them. From -10 to +38 degrees centigrade, from months of zero rainfall to months of deluge, they’ll endure. Many ornamental shrubs also have great resilience to extreme weather. Sarcococca (a sweet-scented, winter-flowering evergreen), Euonymus fortunei (a clippable evergreen suited to topiary or hedges) and Phormium tenax (a 2m-tall, wide-bladed flax from New Zealand) are all tough as old boots. But my go-to shrub for 100% reliable resistance to the worst of the weather is Rosa rugosa. This hummock-forming, no-prune rose flowers for months, rarely suffers pest or disease, has glorious winter hips and great autumn colour. There are several selected forms, including: R. ‘Fru Dagmar Hastrup’ (a delicate single pink), R. ‘Alba’ (a simple single white) and R. ‘Rosarie De L’Hay’ (deep pink and strongly scented).

Tough Crops for Tough Conditions

There is also a surprisingly large range of edibles that have great resilience to extreme weather. Blackcurrants, whitecurrants and redcurrants can take flooding through to heatwaves and endure, although that mad 38ºC hot spell in 2022 did cook the Kentgrown blackcurrants due to be made into Ribena© on their bushes! That said, they bounced back in 2023. Raspberries are tough, too. They’ll deal with waterlogging in winter and drought in summer, while still producing a reasonable crop. And, on a larger scale, if you’re seeking resilient fruit whose canopy can cast decent shade on the hottest days, try introducing Pyrus (Pear) ‘Concorde’ to your plot.

So, the good news it that with some careful thought we can evolve our plots to remain beautiful and productive in spite of the erratic weather by simply choosing the most resilient plants.

ABOVE: Rudbeckia hirta, Sarcococca and Rosa rugosa are all resilient choices, well suited to the increasingly unpredictable weather conditions that we are increasingly seeing.

OPPOSITE: redcurrants (likewise blackcurrants and whitecurrants) show impressive adaptability, thriving despite extremes of drought, heat or waterlogging.

Time to Rethink Your Garden?

NICK BAILEY’S GARDEN DESIGN & CONSULTANCY SERVICE

offers affordable bespoke design solutions across the UK. From compact plots to private estates, Nick’s design expertise and plantsmanship, backed by 35 years of experience, delivers beautiful gardens in tune with nature and each client’s needs. Enquire about an initial consultation at www.nickbailey365.com

photo of nick bailey & orla:

holly cook headshots

Update and refurbish your kitchen at a fraction of the cost of a replacement

Kitchen cupboard doors removed, resprayed and refitted within one week

Choose from a range of colour options including Heritage & National Trust

Defender Burghley Horse Trials

4–7 september 2025

Defender Burghley Horse Trials is our region’s largest annual event, bringing in over 170,000 visitors and creating a big boost for our hospitality sector. Nicholas Rudd-Jones takes a closer look

THIS YEAR we had the good fortune to be invited to the Event Preview Morning to take a closer look at the crosscountry jumps with course designer Derek di Grazia. Our tour, in a fleet of black Defenders, brought home just how much energy, expertise and passion goes into the event each year; and it was fascinating to learn more from the course designer about what his intention was for each jump and what the design issues were. This is his fourth year designing the course, and he brings with him the valuable perspective of being an eventer himself, experiencing everything first-hand. The most dramatic change this year is that the course has been reversed to give horse and riders new challenges, and spectators some new perspectives.

We also talked with Martyn Johnson, Event Director, to learn about new initiatives for 2025. ‘Our aim’, he told us, ‘is always to balance the tradition of the event with innovation. And also, it’s vital to preserve

the natural landscape within which the event takes place; there are some very old trees in the park that, of course, need to be preserved.

‘Each year’, he continued, ‘we carry out customer research to understand how we can continue to get better, and we are always making incremental improvements. This year, for example, we have added some chalets down by the lake where groups can gather for the day, enjoy a picnic and watch the cross-country.’

Going on to talk about the shopping offering, Martyn told us: ‘We have found after a couple of more challenging post-Covid years that, last year and especially this, the range and depth of the stands has become really strong, offering top-quality, highly original goods.’

Regarding Stamford, Martyn reflected: ‘It’s so special to live and work alongside a town as vibrant and beautiful as Stamford, and we’re excited to celebrate the ties with a new competition this year, the Best Dressed Window competition, in partnership with #ShopStamford.’

ABOVE: Defender Burghley from above.

Photo: DBHT/Peter Nixon.

Launching at Burghley ‘Toi et Moi’ Burghley Horse Trials 4th-7th September 2025 Stand C2

6 Red Lion Square – Stamford – Lincolnshire – PE9 2AJ

Telephone: 01780 754166

dawsonofstamford@hotmail.com

Best Dressed Window

Twenty-six businesses took part in the Best Dressed Window competition, dressing their windows to celebrate the Defender Burghley Horse Trials. Displays will be up until 7 September.

‘This is all about showcasing Stamford at its best,’ said Sarah Sewell, Chair of #ShopStamford. ‘It’s a chance for local businesses to show off their creativity, create a warm welcome for visitors, and be part of a shared moment of pride for the town.’

Judging took place on 18 August. Prizes included a £500 cash award, tickets to the Horse Trials, plaques and certificates. The overall winner was Stamford Botanics (Leonie Baldwin of Stamford Botanics is pictured with Mayor Amanda Wheeler, below), and there were Highly Commended and Commended awards too.

‘The most dramatic change this year is that the course has been reversed’

Local Businesses at the Horse Trials

As well as the Best Dressed Window competition, there are several local businesses directly involved in the Horse Trials through having a stand there. Here we highlight just a few:

Dawson of Stamford

John Dawson, Owner

‘We have had a stand for more than 40 years and have never missed a year – apart from Covid, of course. For us, it’s a perfect chance to renew relationships. People love to come along and say hello. It reminds people we are still here and thriving. We always like to have a representative cross-section of what you will find in our shop, so antique and modern jewellery and antiques. We are specialists in clock repairs too.’

Gladwell & Patterson

Cory & Glenn Fuller, Directors

This year Gladwell & Patterson is showcasing a curated collection of sculptures that celebrate movement, grace and the beauty of the natural world. From dynamic equestrian bronzes to serene wildlife studies that evoke the stillness of an English garden, each piece has been selected to inspire and enchant. Many of the featured sculptors are internationally acclaimed, with works gracing private collections and public spaces worldwide, yet each creation retains a unique connection to nature, craftsmanship and the traditions of British sporting life.

Peony Designs

Grace Bright, owner

‘Burghley blends world-class sport with heritage, craftsmanship and relaxed country elegance – exactly the world Peony Designs lives in.

As an Interior Design Studio obsessed with period architecture and beautifully made things, exhibiting in the shadow of Burghley House is a wonderful setting. I have grown up attending Burghley Horse Trials, so given this is our first-year exhibiting, we’re thrilled to be part of it!

‘We will have some of our beautiful one-off bespoke Kilim rugs, block-printed cushions and our signature ruffle lampshades on the stand. Each piece is artisan-made and designed for characterful,

ABOVE, LEFT TO RIGHT: 2024 winners Ros Canter & Lordships Graffalo; press day, with a fleet of black Defenders taking us out to view the course, boldly reversed this year by designer Derek di Grazia; Lucy of Iris & Mabel, who will have a stand this year; time out at the Pol Roger Champagne tent; Tinker & Fix will be on Avenue A again this September. RIGHT: hobby horse by Le Mieux, a brand that is always popular with Burghley’s younger visitors and stocked by Stork of Stamford, who will be at Burghley for the second year running.

heritage-leaning interiors. You can explore custom rug sizing and colourways, mix and match cushion prints, and choose lampshade trims to suit your room. We’ll also be offering quick design chats, so you get to know us a little more and leave with the right palette and a plan.’

Tinker and Fix

Edd and Louise Hitchen, Owners

‘This will be our fourth year at Burghley in the same location at the top of the hill on Avenue A. It’s great when people come back having loved the tools they bought previously based on our recommendations and are looking for something new, or a maintenance kit to keep them working well! The Burghley crowd is an eclectic mix of rural, outdoorsy people – they appreciate tools and kit that actually work and are built to last. They are also often really interesting people, who are doing unusual projects or have a specific gardening query – so we have four days of great conversations. Essentially, Burghley people are Tinker and Fix people – so that’s why we keep heading back!

‘We’ll have an even larger selection of Niwaki and Sneeboer garden tools, as well as the stunning Heirloom copper trowels and Japanese canvas bags for moving tools around. We’ll also be focusing more on the tool-related leather work that we make ourselves – from a holster for your garden secateurs to an upgraded sheath for your Hori Hori. As always, we’ve got some great present ideas too – including our unique skatewood tools, firm favourites from Carhartt clothing and a great range of Japanese toolboxes.’

Stork of Stamford

Marianne Rawlins, owner

‘Burghley Horse Trials are such a perfect fit for Stork of Stamford. Our shop has always had a very horsey feel, with lots of equestrian-

inspired clothing, toys and accessories. Last year was actually our first time having a stand, as we were lucky enough to secure a spot after a last-minute cancellation. We loved it – the atmosphere, the people, the shared passion for country life. It just felt like home. This year we’ve had more time to plan, so we’re really excited to come back bigger and better.

‘This year we’ll have a handpicked selection of our favourites – classic country wear, pyjamas (including some lovely mum and daughter matching traditional sets), gorgeous Le Mieux horses and accessories, beautiful Little Dutch wooden toys, and Tonies audio storytelling systems. We’ve got a few surprises we’ll be revealing on the day as well. We can’t wait to welcome families to our stand again this year. Come say hello, have a browse and discover something lovely to take home.’

Iris & Mabel

Lucy Alcorn, Owner

‘This will be my second year attending Burghley Horse Trials after a very successful first year. I was so pleased with the positive response I received from regular and new customers. It was also a great opportunity to meet people face to face as opposed to online or through social media!

‘My business is based locally near Oundle, so it seems fitting to be supporting and being part of this prestigious event. Iris & Mabel is all about the country house, eclectic look, so I think it totally fits in and blends alongside a lot of the other brands selling country clothing.

‘I have been busy gathering lots of stock for my Burghley stand so there will be items there that are not on our website at the moment which is exciting. We aim to source affordable antiques and vintage interiors that people can use and enjoy every day, so there will be lots to see and shop.’

Other local businesses that have stands at the show this year include: Ankole, Freckleface, Joules, Ruff and Tumble, The Rutland Bookshop, Scotts of Thrapston, Sinclairs, Stamford Shepherd Huts and Tom Lane.

Euromec

Nicholas Rudd-Jones met with Nikki Heighton, Director of Euromec, Industrial Cleaning & Groundcare Equipment Specialists, to get an update on their latest product offerings

EUROMEC provides solutions to cleaning and groundcare needs. They are continually innovating to provide better solutions for their customers. Be it mulching capabilities, so that grass does not have to be collected, electric mowers, so that nearby school/office working is not disrupted during operations, or multi-purpose council vehicles that can deal with a whole range of cleaning needs, Euromec is always at the forefront of finding the best solutions. Euromec serves the institutional, commercial and top-end consumer market –smallholdings and the such like.

Nikki told me: ‘Business is as strong as ever, and after-sales continues to be a major focus for us. At the end of the day, this business is all about customer relations, and our team just loves to solve client needs and problems.’

ISEKI TXGS24: The ISEKI TXGS24 is a sub-compact. It is good for smallholdings/equestrian yards. It has a power take-off (PTO) facility, which means you can attach a whole range of things on the back – mowers, rollers, hedge cutters, buckets, etc. The ultimate multi-purpose compact tractor, it is perfect for a huge range of jobs in so many different applications, from homeowner or landscaper to equestrian or sports turf maintenance. It has a powerful 23hp engine with a lift capacity of 540kg, allowing this reliable workhorse to be extremely versatile. Whether you are working with the loader, mowing the grass or operating a huge range of implements, the uses for the TXGS24 compact tractor are limitless.

The compact size of the TXGS24, at only 2.57m long and 1.19m wide before adding any attachments, enables the tractor to be incredibly manoeuvrable and easy to drive. Along with foldable rollover protection structure (ROPS), the TXGS24 can easily be stored in a garage, shed or small container.

ISEKI SXG RANGE: The ISEKI SXG Range is the ultimate in cut and collection mowers, with the ability to perform exceptionally even in wet conditions, allowing you to work without the weather restricting you. Whether you are mowing your lawn, an estate or numerous contracts, the versatile ISEKI SXG range of mowers cut and collect leaving a superior finish. Designed, engineered and built in Japan to offer the most reliable, high-quality diesel mower on the market for the most demanding of users.

STIGA: The Stiga Park 500 WX front mower is powered by a potent 586cc twin-cylinder engine, plus an all-wheel-drive transaxle transmission. So, no mowing task is too much trouble, even when tackling uneven surfaces. It also features 50:50 articulation with power steering to ensure light and easy manoeuvring, especially around obstacles.

It is a fabulous solution for mulching, with the mower spreading finely chopped grass across your lawn, where it decomposes and returns valuable nutrients to the soil. Think of it as a natural, invisible eco-fertilizer that protects against drought.

Come and say hello to the Euromec team at the Defender Burghley Horse Trials. Their stand is by the pedestrian entrance on the north of the site. Nikki told me: ‘We have had a stand here since 2012, and, as many of our customers are also regular visitors to the event, the beautiful setting in Burghley Park is the ideal environment to showcase our products to customers old and new.’

Euromec, Valley Way, Market Harborough LE16 7PS 01858 434011 | sales@euromec.co.uk

www.euromec.co.uk | @euromecltd

LEFT: Euromec’s showroom. ABOVE TOP: ISEKI TXGS24. ABOVE: Stiga Park Pro.

THE RUTLAND GALLERY

QUIET MOMENTS

The Still Life Paintings of Jane Hooper

Chair and Flowers Garden III

An exhibition of still life paintings by acclaimed British artist Jane Hooper. Inspired by her surroundings, Hooper’s work features everyday domestic objects; jugs, vases, and flowers rendered in a muted palette, revealing beauty in simplicity.

Saturday 6th to Saturday 20th September 10:30am – 4:00pm Meet the Artist at the exhibition opening on Saturday 6th September between 1:00pm - 3:00pm

Kaliòs

Rebecca Chantrell went to visit the team at Kaliòs, an impressive new aesthetics and skincare clinic on Ironmonger Street in Stamford, to find out more

IWENT TO MEET ANNIE one gorgeous sunny Friday afternoon at the new Kaliòs clinic on Ironmonger Street in Stamford. The clinic’s name comes from fusing two Greek words: kalos, meaning ‘beautiful’, and helios, meaning ‘sun’ or ‘radiance’. The first thing that struck me as I entered the clinic was the focus on design. The space is incredibly welcoming and has been cleverly curated to be discreet and calming. I loved the limewash walls and the comfortable, stylish chairs on the ground floor. Downstairs is a lovely private space where treatments are carried out.

The clinic brings together four qualified nurses, Tam, Deanna, Clare and Annie – a team of highly experienced practitioners with decades of experience among them in fields including plastic surgery, dermatology and reconstruction, so clients are in incredibly safe hands. All four are continuing their hospital work in addition to their practice at Kaliòs. They are all unbelievably passionate about offering the latest advancements in non-surgical treatments.

“The clinic’s name comes from fusing two Greek words: kalos, meaning ‘beautiful’, and helios, meaning ‘sun’ or ‘radiance’”

Getting to know each client’s skin goals is at the forefront of what they do at Kaliòs – there is no one-size-fits all or quick-fix approach here, and the team go above and beyond to get to know their clients. Annie explained how a holistic approach is taken with respect to your skin journey. They firstly ascertain what it is you want to achieve and create a personalised skincare plan to help you get the desired results. They look at diet, exercise, lifestyle, medications, etc, to work out how to complement the skincare plan they recommend. I was really impressed by how they pride themselves on honesty and manage expectations in terms of what is achievable.

The aesthetics world has recently come under intense scrutiny from the government and in the media, as some people are administering injectables with little to no qualifications or experience and using low-grade products on the skin. Annie told me that recent law changes are ‘very welcome’ to ensure clients’ safety. The team at Kaliòs are fully qualified to deliver procedures and treatments such as Botox, dermal fillers, skin peels, lesion removal, microneedling and much more. A real point of difference with Kaliòs is that they have two in-house licensed prescribers of the injectables.

Annie explained that non-surgical treatments can be very obvious if not done correctly, but the Kaliòs philosophy is to enhance a client’s natural appearance and skin vitality without it looking detectable or obvious. This is what sets the clinic apart: naturallooking results, care that’s tailored to you, and the reassurance of a skilled nurse-led team – all in a beautiful clinic in the heart of town.

KALIÒS, 7 IRONMONGER STREET, STAMFORD PE9 1PL 07503 031534 | KALIOS.CO.UK | @KALIOS.STAMFORD

SPOTLIGHT ON PEELS: I asked Annie to tell me a little more about peels.‘This is an excellent time to be thinking about a peel. The benefits for the skin,’ she explained, ‘include repairing summer exposure damage and preparing the skin for winter. They are great for any skin type – we tailor each peel according to skin type or concern, whether that’s normal or sensitive skin, or acne or pigmentation, for example. We use a progressive, not aggressive, approach and choose bespoke products for each individual client in order to achieve beautiful, healthy, radiant skin. It’s definitely a recommended treatment for this time of year.’

NATURAL BEAUTY enhance your

We o er non-surgical aesthetic treatments to rejuvenate and enhance your skin. From dermal ﬁllers and microneedling to plasma therapy and Profhilo, each treatment is tailored to your unique needs. Our goal is to achieve natural-looking results that restore conﬁdence in a professional, welcoming setting.

Opening O er: 10% o non-prescription treatments with code ‘SEP10’

A Bespoke Path to Wellness with Life Rituals

Life Rituals clinic on Mill Street, in Oakham, is a warm and welcoming hub for integrative healthcare, where personalised treatment meets decades of professional experience

FOUNDED in 2017 by experienced acupuncturist and herbalist Jo George, Life Rituals is home to a multi-disciplinary team of healthcare professionals who provide a wide range of therapies for adults, children and teens alike. Life Rituals offers a beautiful, comfortable space for clients to meet with healthcare professionals across a range of disciplines. There’s a lovely sense of calm from the moment you walk in – a welcoming reception, a treatment room downstairs, and two more upstairs, with a dedicated counselling room. The clinic is stylishly decorated in the style of a traditional apothecary, and it’s hard to imagine a space better suited to putting clients at ease before and during treatment.

Root-Cause Healthcare

Jo’s vision was to offer a clinic where clients feel heard, understood and supported. Her approach – shared by the team she’s so thoughtfully brought together over the last few years – focuses on treating the root causes of health concerns, rather than simply patching over symptoms. As Jo explains: ‘We go on a journey with our clients, and educating them plays a key role in understanding why they feel the way they do. We support our clients to feel empowered and regain control of their health.’

The therapies available under one roof at Life Rituals are impressively wide-ranging, from acupuncture and Western herbal medicine to nutritional therapy, counselling, Human Given Psychotherapy, LED light therapy skin treatments, lymphatic massage, osteopathy and reflexology (see the website for the full list). Specialist areas include hormones and women’s health, fertility, gut health, autoimmune issues, and mental and emotional wellbeing.

A Collaborative, Compassionate Approach

With Jo now back in practice after a sabbatical for further training, new patients are welcome to get in touch via the clinic’s main number or email. Jo’s own clinical focus continues to be women’s health, particularly gynaecology and fertility, as well as complex autoimmune and digestive disorders, and complex chronic disorders.

One of the great strengths of Life Rituals is its collaborative ethos. Practitioners can cross-refer, ensuring that clients are seen by just the right expert for their individual needs. The clinic’s counselling service is also a key element of its offering, too, with both male and female counsellors available, and a strong focus on mental health. ‘Especially in the current climate, it’s a hugely valuable service to have on our doorstep,’ says Jo. ‘With the NHS so overstretched, needing care can feel incredibly daunting and worrying. That’s why many people are now turning to us – for time to be listened to, support that’s truly personal and an approach that looks at the whole person.’

With such a breadth of expertise in one place, Life Rituals is quietly redefining what joined-up, patientcentred care can look like – right in the heart of Rutland.

Life Rituals, 24 Mill Street, Oakham LE15 6EA | 01572 868579

info@liferituals.co.uk | www.liferituals.co.uk | @liferituals

‘We support our clients to feel empowered & regain control of their health’

NOT SURE WHICH PRACTITIONER IS RIGHT FOR YOU?

Another service Life Rituals offers is helping you to find the right practitioner for you. You can either book a FREE 15-minute discovery call with any practitioner by going onto their profile on the website – this gives you a chance to speak to a practitioner and decide if they’re the right fit to support your journey to better health. Or, if you are still unsure, Jo can help direct you personally – just email her on info@liferituals.co.uk or leave a message for her at the clinic 01572 868579, and she will help guide you to the right practitioner for your condition.

ABOVE: Life Rituals is at the southern end of Mill Street; the clinic has a dedicated counselling room.

LIFE RITUALS HEALTH CLINIC

WE ARE A TEAM OF FULLY QUALIFIED, EXPERIENCED HEALTH PROFESSIONALS OFFERING PERSONALISED HEALTHCARE FOR ALL THE FAMILY.

Nikki Counselling/Reiki

Nikki is a Counsellor, Reiki Master Practitioner, Mindfulness Teacher, and Circle Facilitator. Passionate about helping people to become the best version of themselves, she supports clients facing a range of challenges to heal and grow forward positively. Nikki works with adults in-person and online. nikki@liferituals.co.uk

Aelish Acupuncture

Aelish is a fully qualified five element and paediatric acupuncturist and a member of the British Acupuncture Council and Hub of Paediatric Acupuncture. She has a passion for helping children, teens and adults overcome physical and mental health challenges. aelish@liferituals.co.uk

Jo TCM Acupuncturist

Jo has over 25 years of clinical experience, and in-depth knowledge in the areas of gynaecology, fertility, auto-immune conditions and digestive disorders and complex chronic disorders. Jo also utilises nutritional testing, Chinese herbs, and dietary support plans with targeted supplementation according to the individual’s requirements. jo@liferituals.co.uk

Ginny Medical Herbalist

Experienced Registered Western Medical Herbalist with a degree in medical science. Ginny uses her combined knowledge to offer an integrated approach to health. Bespoke herbal medicines are made following a full consultation for the patient’s individual health needs, to address the root of the problem, ease symptoms and optimise health. ginny@liferituals.co.uk

Stacey Psychotherapist

Stacey is a qualified and accredited Human Givens Psychotherapist. This is a practical, people-centred, talking therapy. Stacey works with issues including Anxiety, Depression, Exam Stress, School Refusal, Sleep Problems, PTSD, Addictions, Anger, Phobias and Trauma amongst others. Psychotherapy is available both face-to-face and online. stacey@liferituals.co.uk

Jane Reflexology

Jane previously had a career in neurology spinal health and oncology. Offering feet and facial Reflexology, Zone face lift, LED light therapy for wound healing, Psoriasis, Rosacea, Dermatitis, Acne, Pigmentation, Rejuvenation, Inflammation, and Mood Booster, Soul Facials, Reiki, Indian Head Massage, Myofascial Cupping and Breathwork. Treating all health conditions. jane@liferituals.co.uk

Kerry Acupuncture

Doing what is best for you and your health: With care & compassion, Kerry will consider your immediate symptoms as well as address wider issues. Aiming to identify the root cause of your imbalance (illness). Using very fine needles acupuncture is virtually painless and many patients find the treatments extremely relaxing and effective. kerry@liferituals.co.uk

Your Smile, Reimagined Right Here in Peterborough

They say

you’re

never fully dressed without a smile — and in Peterborough, there’s a dental practice that’s been helping locals look fully dressed (and fabulous) for over 40 years.

Whether it’s a little polish or a full smile glow-up, we have the expertise, the tech, and the gentle touch to make it happen.

Our modern, family-friendly clinic has built its reputation on making people feel at ease from the moment they walk through the door. With a warm, welcoming environment and a focus on personalised care, it’s the kind of place where nervous patients become regulars — and where every treatment is tailored to fit your needs.

Looking to enhance your smile? The practice offers a full range of advanced cosmetic options, including professional tooth whitening to brighten your teeth, composite bonding to fix chips and gaps, and veneers for a complete transformation. These treatments are

designed to deliver natural-looking results with minimal fuss — all performed with the same calm, careful approach the team is known for.

Every smile makeover starts with a conversation. Whether your needs are simple or more complex, the team will work with you to create a bespoke treatment plan that suits your lifestyle, your goals, and your budget.

And if you’re new to the practice? Pop by reception to ask about their special introductory offer — it’s the perfect reason to finally prioritise that smile you’ve been thinking about.

Because a great smile doesn’t just look good — it feels good, too. And now, it’s easier than ever to get one, right here in Peterborough.

Confidence starts with a smile and glows with radiant skin

We also offer anti wrinkle treatments and other facial aesthetics, including advanced skin booster treatments, these are a non-surgical way to stimulate collagen production. It will restore hydration improving elasticity and tone. Smooth fine lines and revive your natural glow from the inside out.

effortlesslyradiant@hotmail.com

Tel: 01733 230066

Email: info@matleydental.co.uk

Orton Brimbles, Peterborough, PE2 5YQ www.matleydental.co.uk

LOCAL PRIVATE PSYCHOLOGISTS

LOCAL PRIVATE CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGISTS

COVID-19: Online and face to face sessions offered

Online and face to face sessions offered

COVID-19: Online and face to face sessions offered LOCAL PRIVATE CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGISTS

Specialising in treating:

LOCAL PRIVATE CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGISTS

Specialising in treating:

LOCAL PRIVATE CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGISTS

Specialising in treating:

Specialising in Treatment for Adults with:

• Low self-esteem and loss of confidence

COVID-19: Online and face to face sessions offered

• Low self-esteem and loss of confidence

COVID-19: Online and face to face sessions offered

COVID-19: Online and face face sessions

COVID-19: Online and face to face sessions offered

• Low mood, depression, self-harm and suicidal thinking

COVID-19: Online and face to face sessions offered

COVID-19: Online and face to face sessions

COVID-19: Online and face to face sessions offered

• Low mood, depression, self-harm and suicidal thinking

COVID-19: Online and face to face sessions offered

• Low mood, depression, self-harm and suicidal thinking

Specialising in treating:

• Anxieties, phobias, obsessions and ruminations

• Low mood, depression, self-harm and suicidal thinking

Specialising in treating:

• Low self-esteem and loss of confidence

Specialising in treating:

• Low and loss of confidence

• Low self-esteem and loss of confidence

Specialising in treating:

• Low self-esteem and loss of confidence

Specialising in treating:

• Low self-esteem and loss of confidence

• Significant life events, trauma, nightmares, flashbacks

• Anxieties, phobias, obsessions and ruminations

• Low self-esteem and loss confidence

• Low self-esteem and loss of confidence

Specialising in treating:

• Low mood, depression, self-harm and suicidal thinking

• Low self-esteem and confidence

• Low self-esteem and loss of confidence

• Low and loss of confidence

• Low mood, depression, self-harm and suicidal thinking

• Low self-esteem and loss of confidence

• Anxieties, phobias, obsessions and ruminations

• Significant life events, trauma, nightmares, flashbacks

• Low depression, self-harm and suicidal thinking

• Low mood, depression, self-harm and suicidal thinking

• Low self-esteem and loss of confidence

• Low mood, depression, self-harm and suicidal thinking

• Anxieties, phobias, obsessions and ruminations

• Low mood, depression, self-harm and suicidal thinking

• Anxieties, phobias, obsessions and ruminations

• Low mood, depression, self-harm and suicidal thinking

• Attachment and relationship difficulties

• Significant life events, trauma, nightmares, flashbacks

• Anxieties, phobias, obsessions and

• Attachment and relationship difficulties

• Anxieties, obsessions ruminations

• Anxieties, phobias, obsessions and ruminations

• Low mood, depression, self-harm and suicidal thinking

• Significant life events, trauma, nightmares, flashbacks

• Anxieties, phobias, obsessions and ruminations

• Low mood, depression, self-harm and suicidal thinking

• Significant life events, trauma, nightmares, flashbacks

• Anxieties, phobias, obsessions and ruminations

• Significant life events, trauma, nightmares, flashbacks

• Abuse (physical, emotional and sexual)

• Attachment and relationship difficulties

• Significant life events, trauma, nightmares, flashbacks

• Anxieties, phobias, obsessions and ruminations

• Attachment and relationship difficulties

• Significant life trauma, nightmares, flashbacks

• Significant life events, trauma, nightmares, flashbacks

• Anxieties, phobias, obsessions and ruminations

• Significant life events, nightmares,

• Significant life events, trauma, nightmares, flashbacks

• Attachment and relationship difficulties

• Significant life events, trauma, nightmares, flashbacks

• Abuse (physical, emotional and sexual)

• difficulties

• Attachment and relationship difficulties

• Significant life events, trauma, nightmares, flashbacks

• Abuse (physical, emotional and sexual)

• Attachment and relationship difficulties

• Significant life events, trauma, nightmares, flashbacks

• Abuse (physical, emotional and sexual)

• Attachment and relationship difficulties

• Abuse (physical, emotional and sexual)

• Attachment and relationship difficulties

• Abuse (physical, emotional and sexual)

• Attachment and relationship difficulties

• Abuse (physical, emotional and sexual)

• Autistic Spectrum Disorders

• Abuse (physical, emotional and sexual)

• Attachment and relationship difficulties

• Autistic Spectrum Disorders

• Abuse (physical, emotional and sexual)

• Autistic Spectrum Disorders

• Abuse (physical, emotional and sexual)

• Autistic Spectrum Disorders

• Abuse (physical, emotional and sexual)

• Autistic Spectrum Disorders

• Abuse (physical, emotional and sexual)

• Autistic Spectrum Disorders

• Spectrum

Adult Speciality

• Autistic Spectrum Disorders

Adult Speciality

• Autistic Spectrum Disorders

Adult Speciality

Johan Truter

• Autistic Spectrum Disorders

Adult Speciality

• Abuse (physical, emotional and sexual)

Adult Speciality

• Autistic Spectrum Disorders

Adult Speciality

Johan Truter

Adult Speciality

Johan Truter

Adult Speciality

Tel: 01780 758556

Johan Truter

Adult Speciality

Johan Truter

Tel: 01780 758556

Johan Truter

Tel: 01780 758556

Johan Truter

Tel: 01780 758556

Johan Truter

Adult Speciality

www.psychologistuk.co.uk

• Autistic Spectrum Disorders (ASD)

Tel: 01780 758556

Johan Truter

Tel: 01780 758556

Johan Truter

Tel: 01780 758556

www.psychologistuk.co.uk

Tel: 01780 758556

Orion House, 14 Barn Hill, Stamford, PE9 2AE

www.psychologistuk.co.uk

Tel: 01780 758556

www.psychologistuk.co.uk

Tel: 01780 758556

www.psychologistuk.co.uk

Johan Truter

www.psychologistuk.co.uk

Orion House, 14 Barn Hill, Stamford, PE9 2AE

www.psychologistuk.co.uk

Orion House, 14 Barn Hill, Stamford, PE9 2AE

• Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

www.psychologistuk.co.uk

Orion House, 14 Barn Hill, Stamford, PE9 2AE

Tel: 01780 758556

Orion House, 14 Barn Hill, Stamford, PE9 2AE

www.psychologistuk.co.uk

Orion House, 14 Barn Hill, Stamford, PE9 2AE

Orion House, 14

Orion House, 14 Barn Hill, Stamford, PE9 2AE

Psychotherapist

Orion House, 14 Barn Hill, Stamford, PE9 2AE

Tel: 01780 758556

www.psychologistuk.co.uk

Psychotherapist

Dr Herman Holtzhausen

www.psychologistuk.co.uk

Psychotherapist

Psychotherapist Dr Herman Holtzhausen

Orion House, 14 Barn Hill, Stamford, PE9 2AE

Dr Herman Holtzhausen

Dr Herman

Mbl: 07563241359

Psychotherapist Dr Herman Holtzhausen

Dr Herman Holtzhausen

Mbl: 07563241359

Dr Herman Holtzhausen

Psychotherapist

www.psychologistuk.co.uk

Dr Herman Holtzhausen

Psychotherapist Dr Herman Holtzhausen

Orion House, 14 Barn Hill, Stamford, PE9 2AE

Mbl: 07563241359

Dr Herman Holtzhausen

Mbl: 07563241359

Orion House, 14 Barn Hill, Stamford, PE9 2AE

www.stamfordpsychotherapist.co.uk

Chartered Clinical Psychologist

Mbl: 07563241359

www.stamfordpsychotherapist.co.uk

Child and Adult Speciality, EMDR Consultant

Mbl: 07563241359

Mbl: 07563241359 www.stamfordpsychotherapist.co.uk

www.stamfordpsychotherapist.co.uk

Mbl: 07563241359 www.stamfordpsychotherapist.co.uk

Psychotherapist

Child and Adult Speciality, EMDR Consultant

Child and Adult Speciality, Consultant

Child and Adult Speciality, EMDR Consultant

Child and Adult EMDR Consultant

Child and Adult Speciality, EMDR Consultant

www.stamfordpsychotherapist.co.uk

Johan Truter

Psychotherapist

Child Speciality, EMDR

Child and Adult Speciality, EMDR Consultant

Dr Alexandra Dent

Child and Adult Speciality, EMDR Consultant

Child and Adult Speciality, Consultant

Dr Alexandra Dent

Psychotherapist

Child and Adult Speciality, EMDR Consultant

Dr Alexandra Dent

Mbl: 07986 585270

Dr Alexandra Dent

Dr Herman Holtzhausen

Child and Adult Speciality, EMDR Consultant

Dr Alexandra Dent

Mbl: 07986 585270

Dr Alexandra Dent

Dr Herman Holtzhausen

Tel: 01780 758556

Mbl: 07986 585270

www.alexandradent.co.uk

Mbl: 07986 585270

Dr Alexandra Dent

Mbl: 07986 585270

Mbl: 07986 585270 www.alexandradent.co.uk

Dr Herman Holtzhausen

www.alexandradent.co.uk

Mbl: 07986 585270

www.alexandradent.co.uk

Mbl: 07563241359

www.alexandradent.co.uk

Mbl: 07986 585270 www.alexandradent.co.uk

Mbl: 07986 585270

Mbl: 07986 585270 www.alexandradent.co.uk

www.psychologistuk.co.uk

Mbl: 07563241359

www.alexandradent.co.uk

Online psychology workshops: www.heartledpsycotherapy.com/workshops/

www.alexandradent.co.uk

Online psychology workshops: www.heartledpsycotherapy.com/workshops/

Mbl: 07563241359

www.stamfordpsychotherapist.co.uk

Psychotherapist

Child and Adult Speciality, EMDR Consultant

Dr Alexandra Dent

Dr Herman Holtzhausen

Dr Alexandra Dent

Mbl: 07986 585270

Dr Alexandra Dent

Tel: 01780 758543

Mbl: 07986 585270

www.alexandradent.co.uk

Mbl: 07986 585270

www.stamfordpsychotherapist.co.uk

www.alexandradent.co.uk

Orion House, 14 Barn Hill, Stamford, PE9 2AE

Online psychology workshops: www.heartledpsycotherapy.com/workshops/

Fungal Nail Infection

Are your toenails: Discoloured? Thickened? Crumbling? Do you have a fungal nail infection?

A breakthrough treatment offering a simple solution to a complex problem. One quick & single procedure.

Revolutionary, safe & pain-free treatment. No need to be embarrassed any longer. Start treatment now and be ready for next summer!

Do you have Plantar Fasciitis (severe heel pain)?

The method of treatment I offer for this is highly successful. Using computerised Gait Analysis & Orthotic Therapy (medical insoles). Also to alleviate Achilles, Foot, Bunion, Knee, Hip & Back discomfort and pain.

Contact Annette Robinson (Chiropodist/Podiatrist, Muscle & Joint Specialist) Tel : 01832 272200 or 07905 167944 www.injuries-clinic-oundle.co.uk

Blossoms Counselling & Therapeutic Practice –Now Open in Market Harborough

Welcome to a safe space for confidential, integrative therapy with Teresa Lewis MBACP. For adults and teens facing anxiety, trauma, or feeling overwhelmed with life.

Begin your journey with a free 30-minute consultation – visit us at

Website: www.blossomscounsellingco.co.uk

Email: Enquiries@blossomscounsellingco.co.uk

Phone: 07951 862205

Elysia Skin & Wellness

Where Advanced Aesthetics Meet Holistic Wellbeing

BEYOND SKIN DEEP: THE WHOLE-PERSON APPROACH

In the picturesque village of Tansor, near Oundle, ELYSIA is known for its cutting-edge, science-led treatments – Morpheus8, EMFACE, EXION Body and EMSELLA, to name just a few. But what truly sets this clinic apart is its whole-person approach. At the heart of it all is founder Lisa Claypole, whose clinical experience spans more than 20 years and who believes that lasting results come from treating the whole person, not just the skin.

‘It’s where I started, really,’ says Lisa, ‘in health and wellbeing. We just expect our bodies to keep going – but actually, we need to nurture and respect them. It’s what I’m all about.’

Lisa’s approach is as much about inner balance as it is about outer glow. She works closely with her clients to understand their lives, their stress levels and their goals – because all of these things can show up in the skin. Rather than following beauty trends, Lisa focuses on treatments that are scientiﬁcally proven, thoughtfully delivered, typically preventative, and always delivered with the individual client at the heart of it all.

INNOVATION MEETS INTUITION

Technology plays a central role at ELYSIA, and the clinic has earned its status as a BTL Clinic of Excellence. Devices such as EMFACE, EXION and EMSELLA are at the forefront of noninvasive skin and body rejuvenation, loved by celebrities and clients alike for delivering visible results without surgery or downtime. But Lisa is quick to stress: technology isn’t everything.

‘A device on its own might not be enough,’ explains Lisa. ‘These incredible, high-tech teatments work on so many diﬀerent levels – but we can’t forget the importance of taking time, of human touch, of real connection in the delivery.’

That’s why many of ELYSIA’s high-performance therapies are paired with deeply restorative elements: facial massage, buccal sculpting, gua sha and guided breathwork.

FROM THE FACE TO THE FOUNDATIONS

While facial treatments remain a core part of what ELYSIA oﬀers, the clinic also sees clients for a wide range of body concerns, from skin laxity on the arms, tummy or knees, to pelvic ﬂoor strengthening post-pregnancy or in later life.

EMSELLA is one of the most transformative health treatments Lisa offers. A completely non-invasive therapy, it strengthens the pelvic floor and core muscles, helping with everything from incontinence to posture, and even quality of sleep. ‘It’s a game-changer of a treatment that genuinely changes lives,’ says Lisa. ‘It helps people to feel stronger, more supported and more confident. I’ve had so many incredible results in clinic. I just want to sit everyone on that chair!’

NATURAL-LOOKING RESULTS

Lisa’s clients, many of whom she’s worked with for years, are increasingly looking for treatments that are gentle and eﬀective, giving natural-looking results. For this reason, CACI remains a clinic mainstay. A longtime favourite of Hollywood stars such

as Jennifer Aniston, this facial toning system delivers visible results with no downtime, making it an ideal starting point or maintenance treatment.

‘Lisa’s approach is as much about inner balance as it is about outer glow’

‘We often overcomplicate things,’ Lisa says. ‘CACI is brilliant for people wanting to start slowly or work preventatively. It comes at a budget-friendly price point and is incredibly eﬀective.’

Currently studying for a nutritional degree, Lisa continues to deepen her knowledge of the link between internal health and external wellbeing. Her goal is not just beautiful skin, but conﬁdence, resilience and radiance that runs far deeper. ‘You can’t separate skin from the rest of the body,’ she says. ‘When we treat the person as a whole, that’s when the real transformation happens.’

DISCOVER HOW SCIENCE, WELLBEING AND SKIN HEALTH COME TOGETHER, TRANSFORMING NOT JUST YOUR APPEARANCE, BUT THE WAY YOU FEEL

ELYSIA SKIN:BODY:LASER

FOTHERINGHAY ROAD, TANSOR, OUNDLE PE8 5HP | 01832 226328

LISA@ELYSIASKINBODYLASER.CO.UK

WWW.ELYSIASKINBODYLASER.CO.UK @ELYSIASKINBODYLASER

Dr Katie Cowie

Women’s Health & Menopause Specialist

Dr Katie Cowie is a highly experienced and compassionate women’s health doctor who is the founder of a private women’s health clinic called The Women’s Health GP. She has a flagship clinic near Stamford and a satellite clinic in Market Harborough, offering both face to face and video consultations

Tell us about your career and your path into medicine? I was brought up in the Rutland area and I come from a completely non-medical background. I initially went to university to study law and then went on to study medicine as a post-graduate. After university, I worked in major hospitals across Nottingham and central London. As my career progressed, I was awarded dual Royal College membership and became a Diplomate of the Royal College of Obstetrics & Gynaecology.

What drew you to become a menopause specialist?

I have always enjoyed caring for women throughout my career, but an opportunity came up to work in a large menopause clinic and I decided to take the leap. I instantly connected with the specialty and my patients. They often came feeling really vulnerable and like life was out of control. The improvement I saw in them during our care journey together was completely transformative. I subsequently went on to train with the British Menopause Society and I became an accredited BMS Specialist.

‘The improvement I saw in patients during our care journey together was completely transformative’

What services do you offer at the clinic?

I am seeing a large number of women for advanced menopause care, including testosterone replacement. As well as managing straightforward cases, I am just as comfortable consulting with women with a history of blood clots, cancer and autoimmune disease, for example. I have a subspecialist interest in change in body shape and composition during menopause and so I offer weight management services in that context.

I also provide comprehensive women’s health checks (designed as a tailored health MOT) and women’s health focus appointments which cover a broad range of health issues, including premenstrual symptoms, problem periods, breast concerns, fertility, polycystic ovaries and more.

I have additionally trained in medical aesthetics under direct supervision of maxillofacial surgeon and Medical Aesthetics Practitioner of the Year, Mr James Olding. I have a separate aesthetics practice at the Stamford clinic looking to target menopause-driven changes in facial structure and skin.

Do you see an educational role for yourself?

Absolutely! I have launched a podcast called About A Woman, in which I have collaborated with many experts in their respective fields to break down the evidence on key women’s health issues, making it accessible for women. We discuss menopause, hair health, nutrition, thyroid health, weight-loss injections, prolapse, urinary tract health, sexual health and more. The podcast is available to listen on my website and on all major podcast channels.

I also regularly hold talks at corporate venues on the menopause and other women’s health issues. I am always open to talking to businesses who are keen to improve the support they offer to women within the workplace.

FIND OUT MORE & BOOK AN APPOINTMENT: @thewomenshealthgp | @The Women’s Health GP @aboutawomanpodcast 01572 729761 | www.thewomenshealthgp.co.uk

Private women's health clinic founded by British Menopause Society Accredited Specialist, Dr Katie Cowie. Flagship clinic near Stamford & satellite clinic in Market Harborough

Face to face & video consultations available

Services & Consultations:

l Advanced menopause care

l Testosterone replacement for women

l Comprehensive women's health checks

l Weight management in menopause

l Women's health focus appointments

E: contact@thewomenshealthgp.co.uk T: 01572 729761

Follow us at @thewomenshealthgp & The Women's Health GP Facebook page About A Woman podcast available on all major podcast channels

•

DO YOU SUFFER FROM: FINE LINES/WRINKLES? DARK CIRCLES UNDER THE EYE? DULL,

SKIN? PIGMENTATION? ACNE? ECZEMA? SCARRING? STRETCH MARKS? HAIR LOSS? EXCESSIVE SWEATING? 07572734616 / @aesthetics.byfatima hello@aesthetics-byfatima.com

Ironmonger St, Stamford, PE9 1PL, England 10% off all treatments with code ‘SRLIVING’ Hello, I'm Fatima, an Aesthetic Pharmacist Independent Prescriber.

I’m dedicated to helping you look and feel like the best version of yourself with natural, glowing results.

Beauty with Daniel Sandler

BEAUTY | WELLNESS

POST-SUMMER SKIN SOS

I don’t want to depress you, but the best of summer is probably behind us, and if you’ve overdone it in the sun you may want to give your skin some muchneeded TLC. So, if you’re looking to take your skincare seriously, it helps to know which ingredients actually work. Here’s a list of ingredients that are backed by real science – not just hype. These powerhouses are proven to improve skin concerns including sun damage, ageing, acne, dark spots, dehydration and more. Whether you’re just starting out or reﬁning your routine, these are the ingredients worth paying attention to.

Each month, the international makeup artist and founder of Daniel Sandler Cosmetics, who is based in our region, addresses your beauty and skincare concerns. This month, he talks us through the science-backed skincare ingredients you need now

Evidence: Widely tolerated and eﬀective across various skin types.

Note: Pairs well with other actives, eg retinoids and vitamin C.

Hyaluronic Acid

What it does: Attracts and retains moisture, leaving skin plump and hydrated. Evidence: Proven to hydrate eﬀectively, especially in its low molecular weight forms. Note: Always follow with a moisturiser to seal it in.

Evidence: Essential lipids naturally found in the skin, they have strong support for improving barrier function.

Note: Ideal for dry, sensitive, or eczemaprone skin.

Peptides

What they do: Signal to the skin to produce collagen and elastin.

Retinoids (Retinol, Tretinoin, Retinaldehyde)

What they do: Increase cell turnover, boost collagen and improve ﬁne lines, wrinkles, acne and texture.

Evidence: Strong clinical backing for anti-ageing and acne treatment. Note: Can cause irritation, so start slowly and use at night with a moisturiser.

Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid)

What it does: Brightens skin, reduces hyperpigmentation, and protects from oxidative damage.

Evidence: Its antioxidant and collagenboosting eﬀects are well documented. Note: Needs to be in a stable form and packaged in an airtight, dark container to remain eﬀective.

Salicylic Acid (BHA)

What it does: Exfoliates inside pores, helping reduce acne and blackheads. Evidence: Highly eﬀective for oily and acne-prone skin.

Note: As an oil-soluble acid, it penetrates deep into pores for a thorough cleanse.

Alpha Hydroxy Acids

(AHAs: Glycolic, Lactic Acid)

Niacinamide (Vitamin B3)

What it does: Improves the skin barrier, reduces inﬂammation, minimises pores and balances oil production.

What they do: Exfoliate the surface of the skin, improve texture, tone and ﬁne lines. Evidence: Glycolic acid, in particular, is one of the most researched exfoliants. Note: Can increase sun sensitivity – daily SPF is essential.

Azelaic Acid

What it does: Helps reduce acne, rosacea symptoms, and hyperpigmentation. Evidence: Dermatologist-recommended for sensitive or reactive skin types.

Note: Has antibacterial and antiinﬂammatory properties.

Ceramides

What they do: Restore the skin barrier, boost hydration and soothe irritation.

Evidence: Certain peptides, such as Matrixyl, have shown results in improving ﬁrmness and reducing ﬁne lines.

Note: Most eﬀective in well-formulated products over time – results are gradual.

Zinc Oxide / Titanium Dioxide (Mineral Sunscreens)

What they do: Protect the skin from UVA and UVB rays.

Evidence: Broad-spectrum physical blockers with strong safety and stability records.

Note: Daily use is crucial for preventing photo-ageing and increased pigmentation.

What to Watch Out For

• Some trendy ingredients, eg topical collagen, plant stem cells, and ‘snake venom’ peptides may sound exciting, but they don’t have solid evidence for actual skin beneﬁts when applied topically.

• Always pay attention to the formulation, concentration, and how the product is packaged. These factors can make or break how eﬀective an ingredient actually is on your skin.

• And remember, it’s never too late to start using proven skincare ingredients –your skin will thank you at any age.

www.danielsandler.com @danielsandlermakeup

photo: tim steele

Oat Hill Mews care home, Market Harborough Typical signs of ageing or dementia?

Wednesday 24th September 2025 5pm - 6.30pm Join us to hear our dementia expert discuss typical signs of ageing and how symptoms differ from dementia, with guidance on how to live well with dementia. Trusted to care. Join

Experience quality dementia care, led by experts

At Care UK’s Oat Hill Mews care home in Market Harborough, our team is passionate about supporting your loved one to maintain independence and make choices, whilst receiving the very best dementia care in a place they can call home.

Care you can trust

We work with academic partners and respected leaders in the field, to ensure we stay up to date with the latest approaches to dementia care. We have worked closely with the Association of Dementia Studies to create bespoke programmes of dementia training. Whilst Dr Nori Graham - a renowned dementia expert and Vice President of Alzheimer’s International –supports the development of our dementia strategy with Jo Crossland, Head of Nursing, Care and Dementia.

Living well with dementia

Our dedicated team will work with you and your loved one to deliver a care and lifestyle plan entirely tailored to their unique needs and preferences and our busy activities

schedule is always packed with meaningful activities that support them to live life to the full.

Purpose-built facilities

At our purpose-built home, everything from colour schemes, signage, and furniture to the design of our crockery, has been carefully chosen to support residents living with dementia to be as independent as possible.

Each floor at Oat Hill Mews is divided into smaller suites that create a calm atmosphere, keeping hustle and bustle to a minimum.

Oat Hill Mews care home in Market Harborough is part of Care UK, the country’s most awarded large care provider. We’ve been delivering high-quality, person-centred care for over 40 years. That’s why over 10,000 families trust us to care for their older loved ones.

To find out more about Oat Hill Mews, call 01858 390 253 or scan the QR code.

Oat Hill Mews Leicester Road, Market Harborough LE16 7BN careuk.com/oat-hill-mews

Food • Move • Mood

My Week with Health Coach Viv Middlebrook

When Viv Middlebrook of Lifted Health Coaching invited Editor Clare Rudd-Jones to try her 7-day food diary review, it was an opportunity not to miss. After a typically indulgent summer holiday, it was the perfect moment to press reset

VIV MIDDLEBROOK, the inspirational health coach behind Lifted, is one of those rare people who manages to be deeply knowledgeable and motivating without ever being intimidating. Her approach to nutrition and working towards finding a better balance in life is grounded, empowering and totally non-judgemental. When I asked if I could interview her, she suggested something better: that I try her Food, Move, Mood Diary myself.

A Week of Reflection

The diary runs across 7 days and invites you to log what you eat and drink, how hungry you are, how much you exercise and how you feel emotionally. I filled in mine after returning from holiday – after a rather indulgent break away, the return week seemed to be a good one to log and share, since it was a point at which my eating habits were at their most virtuous. I found the process incredibly focusing. Putting pen to paper (or cursor to screen) makes you pause before that extra snack and consider whether it’s really adding anything – nutritionally or otherwise.

Once my diary was complete, I sent it to Viv, who asked for 24 hours to review it before sharing feedback – either in person or via Zoom. Our review session was a joy from start to finish. I never once felt chastised, and Viv was brilliant at answering my questions.

Together, we looked at my week through the lens of the ‘balanced plate’ – protein, fibre, starchy carbs – and discovered some surprising gaps. There were some things I’d assumed were healthy options that actually were not so great. There were some things that just needed little tweaks to shift them into healthier territory.

We talked about the structure of the eating day, too. I had expected I’d be firmly in the doghouse for coming clean on my dislike of breakfast – far too early to eat for me – and so tended to avoid it. However, Viv listened carefully to me and instead suggested a more intuitive, flexible way of organising my daily intake of food that would work for my needs – while still achieving good nutritional balance through the day.

‘It’s not just a food diary – it’s a real step towards looking after yourself better and in a way that feels 100% positive’

Viv was keen to stress that it’s all about positivity: ‘My approach is all about adding, not taking away in the traditional sense of a diet – whether that’s adding in knowledge about nutrition, colour (for a beautifully balanced plate) or healthier habits.’

I loved a line that she quoted from American Professor and writer Michael Pollan: ‘Eat food. Not too much. Mostly plants.’ It’s a simple line that really hit home with me, as I love veggies and increasingly prefer to eat a plant-based diet at home and when I go out. What Viv taught me, though, was how to achieve a nutritional balance through the day in addition to the plant-based focus.

Sharing the Journey

We also talked about family life and how to fit my desire and needs to eat healthily and more plant-based into family meals – not always straightward when accommodating everyone’s tastes. Viv was full of helpful tips for integrating good nutritional choices into shared meals, and recommended some of her favourite cookbooks to expand our range at home. Interestingly, she pointed out that when one person in a household makes changes, it often has a knock-on effect on everyone else there. In our case, it was the first week our eldest teen cooked dinner for the family – something I’d love to build on.

ABOUT VIV

Based in Ryhall, Viv Middlebrook is a certified health coach with a Diploma from the Health Coaches Academy. She explains: ‘My mission is to inspire, motivate and support clients in creating unique, long-term healthy eating and lifestyle habits that last. I work with people who want to feel happier and healthier. More energy, less stress, weight and fitness-levels they’re happy with, and a future they can really look forward to. I’ll help you build resilience, so you can deal with whatever challenges life throws at you, empowering you with the confidence to take control of your life, your health, and wellbeing, so you feel lifted to the very best version of yourself.’

A New Kind of Reset

Viv’s ethos is all about awareness, balance and tuning in to your own body. I was really impressed by how sensitively she tailored her advice around my preferences and habits – not trying to shoehorn me into a prescriptive plan. ‘There’s no single ideal,’ she said. ‘It’s about finding what works for you.’

Beyond nutrition, we talked about energy, stress, sleep and how food affects them all. I came away from our session not just better informed, but more energised and optimistic. To follow up our session, Viv sent me her Blood Sugar Balancing Guide, a fantastic summary of what we’d covered together, with further breakfast, lunch, dinner and snack ideas.

The whole experience felt like a reset – a reminder that there’s so much I can do, from making easy food swaps to upping my levels of activity every day, and – importantly – that it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Just start with introducing manageable habits that will soon make a difference.

In Viv’s hands, it’s not just a food diary – it’s a real step towards looking after yourself better and in a way that feels 100% positive. You’ll learn how to boost your nutrition by building on all you’re already doing right. The long-term effects can be literally life-changing and in so many ways!

SPECIAL OFFER: Viv is delighted to offer readers a 15% discount on the usual charge of £120 to readers who would like to do her Food, Move, Mood Diary review in September and October 2025. Please mention this magazine when you book with her.

WORKSHOP: 16 October, 7pm: Lifted with The Blonde Beet. Details & booking: www.blondebeet.co.uk/events-workshops

FIND OUT MORE & GET IN TOUCH TO BOOK: 07815 142039 | viv@liftedhealthcoaching.com liftedhealthcoaching.com | lifted_healthcoaching

photography: john angerson

Alysia Care Homes

Nicholas Rudd-Jones talked to Alysia Liveras, Director of the Alysia Caring Group, embracing Grand View care home in Stamford and Aspen Manor in Oakham

Tell us about your background and how you started the business

My background is in hospitality, having studied for my degree Hotel Management in Switzerland and working in five-star hotels in both Hong Kong and London. I later trained as a chef at a prestigious French culinary school. While I am still new to the business in my role as Director of Hospitality and Head of Marketing, our company is a family-run enterprise, with my father serving as Chairman, and my sister as the CEO.

This industry holds deep personal significance for us, as my family and I have walked this journey ourselves, searching for care for a loved one, and we understand the importance of finding a place that truly feels right. That first-hand experience shapes the way we care. We know how much it means to find somewhere that feels just right, and that personal experience is why we care differently, bringing empathy, commitment and a genuine sense of purpose to everything we do.

When did you build Grand View and Aspen Manor and what makes them special?

Our homes were purpose built and commissioned in 2021. They are modern, elegant and luxurious, designed with hotels in mind, but also in keeping with the special needs of some of our residents. We offer residential nursing (only at Grand View), dementia and respite care. Every detail has been considered to provide not just care but a fulfilling lifestyle. Our motto is ‘Care that keeps families connected!’

We wanted to design large community spaces for hosting (to keep families connected with their loved one residing in our homes), and our elegant lounges provide the perfect setting to unwind, socialise or enjoy a quiet moment with a favourite book. Whether it’s catching up with friends, reminiscing over old stories or simply taking in the comforting hum of conversation, these spaces are designed to feel relaxed and homely.

For family gatherings and celebrations, our private dining room offers a special setting to make moments memorable. Birthdays, anniversaries or just a Sunday lunch together – these occasions matter, and we make sure they feel as meaningful as they always have. The bistro is a much-loved spot where residents can savour coffee, cake and conversation. It’s a space filled with life, where every cup of tea comes with a side of friendship and familiarity.

We offer three homemade meals a day by our kitchen team, using fresh produce, and our menus rotate seasonally with a 24/7 all-day dining menu, tea and cake on demand, and monthly community afternoon teas. We also often run events, including live cooking shows, cheese and wine evenings, and afternoon jazz and classical performances.

For those who love the outdoors, our landscaped gardens provide a peaceful retreat. Whether it’s taking a gentle stroll along the pathways, tending to plants or simply soaking up the fresh air from a shaded bench, the gardens offer a place to pause, connect with nature and enjoy a quiet moment of reflection.

We also offer specialist care and support with a dedicated dementia floor, designed to provide a calm, familiar and easy-to-navigate environment. We also have dementia-friendly signage, sensory features and clear wayfinding to support confidence and independence.

There’s a strong emphasis on family – tell us more about that Our home isn’t just a place to live – it’s about the people who live here, which is why family remains at the heart of everything we do. Birthdays are still celebrated with loved ones gathered in our private dining room. Coffee and cake in the bistro becomes a new tradition. And, when it matters most, our family suites mean loved ones can stay close too. We try to mimic regular life as much as we can with a trip to our home hair salons or taking our minibus to the local towns for a stroll.

If you’d like to book a viewing, please just get in touch by phone, email or via the online booking forms.

ASPEN MANOR CARE HOME

Barleythorpe Rd, Oakham LE15 6GL | 01572 494770 customerservice.aspenmanor@alysiacaring.co.uk aspenmanorcarehome.co.uk

GRAND VIEW CARE HOME

Uffington Rd, Stamford PE9 2EX | 01780 432610 manager.grandview@alysiacaring.co.uk grandviewcarehome.co.uk

ABOVE (TOP TO BOTTOM): front exterior, private dining room and salon at Grand View care home in Stamford; living room and elegantly appointed bedroom at Aspen Manor in Oakham.

Stamford, Rutland, Peterborough & Oundle

We’re here so your loved one can stay home, where they want to be. Where things are safe and familiar and they have the best chance to live a full and meaningful life.

Whether it’s everyday companionship or everyday errands, personal care, medication support etc, or Live-in Care, Home Care visits or Night Care, our highly trained Care Experts will give your loved one the support they need to live in the place they feel best: home. See how we can support you

School Days

We shine the spotlight on a number of exceptional schools in our region

Witham Hall

Witham-on-the-Hill, Stamford PE10 0JJ 01778 590222, www.withamhall.com

Located in a beautiful Queen Anne mansion surrounded by parkland, this co-educational country prep for 4- to 13-year-olds (day and boarding) offers impressive facilities and outstanding results. Witham is an idyllic setting, where children can be children – strictly no mobiles on site. In a small community of 240 children, staff know every child, their favourite football team and their pet’s name too. The co-curricular sport, art, drama and music offer opportunities for every child to find their interests and build confidence, but the school is academically ambitious for its pupils too.

In 2025 a cohort of 37 secured an impressive 22 scholarships, including two to Eton. Pupils move on to a wide range of day and boarding schools including Uppingham, Oundle, Oakham, Eton, Rugby, Gresham’s and Marlborough College.

Places are offered on a first-come, first-served basis. The school offers 1:1 visits with the Headmaster, and Open Days/Mornings take place in the autumn and summer terms. The next Open Day is on Saturday 8 November.

Please register your interest with Mrs Rachel Hitchcock by email at admissions@withamhall.com or on the telephone number above.

OPPOSITE: young pupils from Laxton Junior School in Oundle.

Laxton Junior School

East Road, Oundle PE8 4BX 01832 277159, www.laxtonjunior.org.uk

Laxton Junior School (LJS) is an independent day school for children aged 4–11 and an intrinsic part of Oundle School. It is an incredibly happy school with a culture built upon the premise that happiness breeds success. Its Head, Lydia Waller, explains: ‘Children learn best when they experience a genuine sense of care and are appreciated for their unique qualities. At LJS, our philosophy is not just a set of words, but a guiding principle that shapes every aspect of our educational journey. It is rooted in a deep belief that every child is a unique individual with boundless potential, and it is our responsibility to nurture and unlock that potential, empowering each child to become the best version of themselves.’

LJS has a responsive curriculum that is tailored for each child. Pupils are encouraged to embrace their individuality and explore their passions; LJS children take risks, dream big and pursue their aspirations with unwavering determination. The school takes pride in its strong academic record, with the vast majority of children progressing to Oundle at age 11, but happiness and emotional well being are equally valued. This is a school where everyone in the community feels known and secure and where creative minds are inspired.

Contact Admissions to find out more about the visiting options that best suit your family. The next Reception Open Day, which you can book through the website, is on Saturday 4 October. This is a brilliant way to get to know the school, the staff and children, while personal tours allow you to see LJS in action on a normal school day.

Spratton Hall

Smith Street, Spratton, Northamptonshire NN6 8HP 01604 847292, www.sprattonhall.com

Located in the beautiful village of Spratton in Northamptonshire, Spratton Hall is an exceptional, rural prep school for 400 girls and boys aged 4 to 13. The school embodies the values of a traditional prep school, where kindness, politeness and determination are encouraged, and academic success is supported and rewarded. However, they are not an academic hot house, and as well as a firstrate learning support department, they enable children to discover and develop their strengths wherever they might lie, be they in Sport, Drama, Art, STEM, or Music.

This all happens within their 50 acres of fantastic facilities, which include: a purpose-built theatre, art and ceramic studios, Forest School, science labs, indoor sports dome, floodlit AstroTurf and multiple sports courts, tracks, pitches and nets. These facilities enable them to offer a mind-boggling array of extra-curricular activities, with 65 pre and post school clubs that can extend the school day at no extra cost until 5.20pm.

The children take their first school steps in the Pre-Prep department, which although very much at the heart of the school, is located in purpose-built classrooms, tailored exclusively for young learners. There is a robust and well-rounded curriculum which is delivered by a team of highly-experienced Early Years teachers, in average class sizes of 15 children, enabling small-group and individual support. Determination and kindness are woven into all areas of the curriculum, and to complement their classroom-based learning, the children also enjoy regular PE, Dance, Music, Art, Drama and Forest School sessions.

From Year 3 children join the main Prep School, where in addition to a rich academic timetable they receive expert sports coaching in 10 different sports, musical instruction in a choice of 21 different instruments and can perform in the many choirs and

musical ensembles or the multiple drama productions put on in their 220 seat theatre. Artistic students will love the dedicated art and ceramics studios. Children generally leave Spratton Hall after Year 8, moving on to both top public schools and local independent senior schools. Parents and children are supported through their time at school by a dedicated Head of Pastoral Care and their team, who oversee the wellbeing and welfare of all pupils.

From September, new bus routes from Church Langton, Great Bowden, Medbourne, and Market Harborough will mean that getting to Spratton Hall is even easier.

To find out more and to view a typical school day, their next Open Morning on 3 October can be booked at www.sprattonhall.com

St Gilbert’s CE Primary School

Foundry Road, Stamford PE9 2PP 01780 762400, www.stgilberts.co.uk

St Gilbert’s Church of England Primary School is a welcoming, friendly church primary school in Stamford. Children are taught from Year 1 in mixed year groups. Ofsted rated the school as ‘good’ in the last inspection and noted that ‘an engaging curriculum, strong Christian ethos and pastoral care are at the heart of the school’s work.’

The most recent SIAMS Church Schools Inspection, which was conducted earlier this year, is an excellent reflection of the wonderful culture and ethos that permeates St Gilbert’s. It demonstrates an unwavering commitment to ensuring

ABOVE: pupils from Spratton Hall.

that everyone is known, valued and supported. Genuine and collaborative partnerships with parents and carers are recognised, as well as the confidence and enthusiasm of pupils, who are really happy in their school environment.

Within a nurturing and vibrant setting, fostered by Headteacher Miss Dicker, pupils are challenged to achieve their personal best and inspired to serve others with their talents. They are encouraged to be confident and take risks as they explore their potential. A good work ethic, mutual respect and responsibility are nurtured in every child at St Gilbert’s.

The team told Local Living: ‘We want to equip our children with the skills and knowledge to understand the world and use their unique gifts to serve others. We value all our pupils and carefully adapt learning to meet their needs. Our three core values are happiness, courage, and service, and they are woven seamlessly

Brooke Hill Academy

Brooke Road, Oakham LE15 6HQ 01572 724214, www.brookehillacademy.com

Nestled on the edge of the Woodland Trust in Oakham, Brooke Hill Academy is a vibrant, happy, high-achieving school where every child is supported to flourish – academically, socially and emotionally. From the very start of each child’s journey at Brooke Hill, the school’s commitment to excellence is clear. Every aspect of school life is tailored to meet the needs of pupils, families, staff and governors, with the aim of ensuring all children achieve at least national standards while enjoying an enriched curriculum that extends far beyond the classroom. Enrichment opportunities range from inspiring subject teaching to popular Forest School sessions in the nearby woodlands.

Children can begin their Brooke Hill journey in the on-site preschool, which offers a strong and confident start to their Reception year, while also making the transition seamless. With two Reception forms, the school provides a nurturing yet stimulating start to primary education, ensuring small-group focus and personalised learning. This early investment in high-quality teaching and care lays firm foundations for long-term success and ensures a seamless transition into school life.

Rated ‘Good’ by Ofsted in 2024, Brooke Hill Academy has celebrated exceptional results in recent years, including its best ever phonics outcomes, with 97% of pupils reaching the expected standard. Across the school, results have consistently exceeded national expectations, with high levels of achievement at Greater Depth. ‘It is a unique school,’ says Headteacher Anna O’Shaughnessy, ‘which not only achieves very high academic standards but also offers a full and engaging curriculum that enables all children to flourish.’

A carefully designed, progressive curriculum is engaging, relevant and supported by innovative classroom spaces, which have undergone extensive renovation. The school also benefits from

into every aspect of daily life and underpin all we do, under the umbrella of “Life in all its fullness.” We believe that if we are happy, feel loved, included and valued, it allows us to develop the confidence to be courageous in our learning, friendships and in life. We can then be of service to others both in our school community and beyond. Ultimately children will be equipped to be responsible, respectful, and active citizens throughout their lives.’

The school has an active PTA, and teachers work in close partnership with parents/carers to support pupils’ happiness and their ability to thrive. There is a popular on-site breakfast, afterschool and holiday club, Gilbert’s Gang, at St Gilbert’s.

The next Reception Open Mornings (for admission in September 2026) are 10 and 12 November 2025, 9.30–11am (no booking required).

‘Nestled on the edge of the Woodland Trust in Oakham, Brooke Hill Academy is a vibrant, happy, highachieving school where every child is supported to flourish – academically, socially and emotionally’

specialist sports provision through Rhino Sports, who lead PE, assist in class and run wraparound care from 7.45am to 6pm, including holiday programmes.

Brooke Hill Academy welcomes families who are interested in Reception places for 2026 or pre-school places for next year to experience its unique ethos on a personalised tour with the Headteacher. These are available from September 2025 – book on the contact details shown above left.

ABOVE: pupils from Brooke Hill Academy in Oakham enjoying the outdoors.

The Peterborough School

Thorpe Road, Peterborough PE3 6AP

01733 343357, www.thepeterboroughschool.co.uk

Combining the convenience of road and rail links with the safety and tranquillity of an 11-acre green oasis campus in Peterborough, The Peterborough School (TPS) presents a ‘Through School’. From the recently expanded Nursery to the renovated KS1 classrooms, through the Prep School, Senior School and Sixth Form, students can progress seamlessly.

TPS takes pride in being a welcoming, close-knit school, where each child’s personality, needs, strengths, weaknesses and aspirations are understood. Here, the core mission is to provide tailored education that offers the best opportunities for success, emphasising a nurturing environment resulting in outstanding achievement, unlocking the potential of each and every child.

The school provides the elements each individual child needs to be happy and achieve. Its dedicated staff are committed, driven, adaptable and experts in their fields. They recognise each student’s potential and work towards transforming that potential into confident, content and successful individuals. The pastoral support is extremely strong, and there is a passionate belief at the school that children learn well and achieve their best when they are happy.

Headmaster, Adrian Meadows, is proud that the long-standing traditions of the school founded in 1895 remain, but at the same time it is a forward-looking, progressive place, where students continually surprise and delight him. ‘I have seen students winning a national STEM award on the same day that the Reception Class

and Pre-schoolers enjoyed a Teddy Bears’ Picnic. Being amongst students of such a wide age range is fascinating, entertaining and always interesting, but, overall, it is incredibly rewarding and humbling to be part of such an amazing school and community.’

‘The Peterborough School provides pupils with a continuous and consistent journey of progression’

TPS provides pupils with a continuous and consistent journey of progression and instils ambition, excellence and character with wraparound family support. The school has high standards and expectations, and an equally vast choice of extracurricular activities: Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, a wide array of sports clubs, debating, gardening club, fencing, yoga and rock climbing, to name but a few.

Open Days are a wonderful way to get a feel for day-to-day life at TPS. They include individual tours of the school and the opportunity to meet the Headmaster and members of the Senior Leadership Team. The next Open Day is Saturday 27 September.

Stamford School

Southfields, St Paul’s Street, Stamford PE9 2BQ 01780 750311, stamfordschools.org.uk

‘At Stamford, education goes far beyond the classroom’

On Saturday 27 September, Stamford School will welcome families to its whole school Open Day. This is a chance to see everything they offer, from the Junior School through to Sixth Form, and to discover how they support every child to thrive, both now and in the future.

At Stamford, education goes far beyond the classroom. There is a broad and exciting curriculum, with a wide range of subjects to choose from. In Sixth Form, the school now offers new vocational options, including BTEC Agriculture and the Leiths CTH Level 3 Certificate in Professional Cookery, alongside established A Level and BTEC subjects. These courses give students real choice and help them prepare for the world of work, university, or further training.

The school’s extensive co-curricular programme offers something for everyone. Whether students are passionate about sport, music, performing arts, debating, outdoor education or STEM, there are opportunities to get involved, try something new and develop important life skills such as teamwork, resilience and leadership.

At Stamford School, they are proud to offer flexible boarding options, including full, weekly and occasional boarding. This gives families the support they need and helps students develop independence and strong friendships. The school’s extensive bus network also makes Stamford accessible from across the region, allowing families to benefit from this unique educational offering wherever they live.

From the Junior School onwards, the Futures Programme supports students to begin thinking about life after school. With guest speakers, careers fairs, university and apprenticeship guidance, and networking opportunities with professionals from a wide range of industries, every student is helped to make confident, informed choices about their next steps.

Whether you are looking for a school that nurtures your child’s talents, supports their ambitions, or opens new opportunities, Stamford School is ready to welcome you.

The next whole school Open Day is on Saturday 27 September. Book now at stamfordschools.org.uk

becoming a governor at

Inspire Education Group

The Inspire Education Group is actively recruiting new governors to join their Board. Nicholas Rudd-Jones met with Rachel Nicholls, CEO, and David Pennell, Corporation Chair, to find out more

THE INSPIRE EDUCATION GROUP (IEG) is a leading further education provider with a focus on transforming lives through education. With over 12,000 students across Peterborough College, Stamford College and University Centre Peterborough, the group is passionate about providing innovative, career-focused learning experiences. IEG offers education and training that transforms lives, whether through A-Levels, apprenticeships, technical education or lifelong learning. IEG is committed to empowering not only its students but also the communities and employers it serves. By working with over 1,000 employers, IEG tackles local skills gaps and ensures that students are equipped with the qualifications and skills needed for career success. IEG’s approach is forward-thinking, ensuring that both staff and students are always prepared for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

WHY GOVERNANCE MATTERS

Governors and leaders work together to ensure that the group runs effectively and that students are provided with an excellent education. Governors bring a range of skills and expertise from their professional lives, which all helps them to provide challenge and support to leaders, and enable them to act as critical friends in decision-making.

Governors have four key responsibilities:

• Ensuring clarity of vision, ethos and strategic direction.

• Holding executive leaders to account for the educational performance of the group and its students.

• The effective and efficient performance management of staff.

• Overseeing the financial performance of the organisation and securing its solvency.

The Board oversees capital investment, employer engagement, and curriculum relevance, ensuring IEG’s provision supports economic growth in the East of England. Their input helps turn ambition into action. The Board meets on average four times a year, with members also serving on committees aligned with their areas of expertise: finance and resources; curriculum and quality; and recruitment, governance and remuneration.

WHO IEG IS LOOKING FOR

IEG is actively recruiting new governors to join their Board. This is an excellent opportunity for individuals who are looking to develop their professional skills and make a meaningful contribution to the future of education in our local communities. The group is particularly seeking governors with expertise in: management

accounting, marketing, entrepreneurship, safeguarding and education. If you have experience in these areas or other relevant ﬁelds, IEG welcomes your application. Please apply online.

Governors do the following:

• Receive dashboards, data packs, and strategic reports

• Are involved in senior recruitment and appraisal

• Help unlock funding through reputation, connections & credibility

Rachel Nicholls, CEO, told me: ‘Governance is how we stay bold and focused. Our governors help us see the bigger picture and stay rooted in community needs.’ Rachel values the Board’s ability to both challenge and support. Their questions sharpen thinking. Their lived experience brings new ideas.

‘Governance is how we stay bold and focused. Our governors help us see the bigger picture and stay rooted in community needs’

WHY BECOME A GOVERNOR AT IEG?

Shape the Future: As a governor at IEG, you will directly inﬂuence the strategic direction of a leading education group. Your decisions will help shape the future of the students and the communities IEG serves.

Develop Leadership Skills: This is an opportunity to enhance your governance experience and leadership capabilities. You’ll gain valuable skills that will serve you in both your professional and personal growth.

Make a Real Impact: Contribute to the development of highquality education and training that meets the needs of both students and employers. Your expertise will help IEG continue to deliver outstanding learning experiences for student and a future pipeline of talent for industry.

Connect with Professionals: As part of the Board, you’ll connect with a range of professionals from various sectors. This is a fantastic chance to expand your network and collaborate with individuals who share your passion for education and skills development.

Engage with Students & Staff: You’ll have the opportunity to visit the campuses, meet with staff and students, and see the positive impact of your contributions firsthand. These interactions will help you better understand the challenges and opportunities in education.

Contribute to Regional & Economic Growth: IEG works closely with local employers to address skills gaps and create pathways for career advancement. As a governor, you will play a key role in ensuring students are equipped with the skills needed to drive regional economic growth.

Keep Learning: You will be working with an organisation that embraces change and growth, responding to the latest shifts in business and the wider environment – all at a time of signiﬁcant growth for the Group.

OPPOSITE: the Group’s commitment to growth, expansion and innovation is clear in the new £13.7 million Centre for Green Technology – pictured here on oﬃcial opening day with (left to right): Sam Carling MP; Chair, David Pennell; Baroness Taylor of Stevenage; Andrew Pakes MP; CEO Rachel Nicholls; Paul Bristow, Mayor of Cambridgeshire & Peterborough Combined Authority.

governor feedback

I spoke to a number of IEG Governors to gain their perspective:

What made you choose to apply as Governor?

• ‘Applying as a Governor was a great opportunity to give back to the local community, share my skills and grow my experience.’

• ‘I have had signiﬁcant experience of mergers particularly in the public sector. I also had a number of NED roles already.’

• ‘Giving something back’

What particular skills do you bring to the team?

• ‘Leadership, environmental sustainability and auditing skills, testing and positively challenging.’

• ‘As a chartered accountant I bring technical experience and attention to detail, particularly around ﬁnance and audit discussions.’

• ‘I bring signiﬁcant NED experience and had a career in the public sector – mostly health and care related. I have signiﬁcant experience in people-related functions and organisation change.’

What have you found most rewarding about being a Governor?

• ‘Always learning something new.’

• ‘We gain what we give. I have gained so much personally and professionally as a Governor.’

• ‘I have met some really inspirational people through the role both on the governing body and staﬀ within the Group.’

• ‘It’s hard to say what’s most rewarding as there are so many! If I pare it down, it’s the staﬀ and leaderships team’s passion and skills in developing the students to their full potential.’

What for you is a ‘special quality’ of the institution?

• ‘The ‘Bold Brave Exceptional’ values run deeply as the IEG Purpose from Board into its curriculum for student development, not only in the classroom results but as individuals who will lead in their lives and community.’

• ‘IEG really values and celebrates its people; staﬀ and students belong to a community that thrives by caring for, motivating and supporting each other.’

• ‘The special quality for me is the commitment of the whole board and leadership to going the extra mile every day – our strap line Be Bold Be Brave Be exceptional – this is genuinely done every day!’

How much of your time does it take up?

• ‘As a minimum 3 to 4 hours each quarter to support on Board meetings and two link governor visits in the academic year. If invited to join subcommittees, then four 1- to 2-hour meetings and time to read papers in preparation.’

• ‘The executive team are very aware and grateful for governor commitment and appreciate that as a full time, working mum time is a limited resource! Board papers are well presented to allow them to be accessible and easy to read; board meetings can be attended virtually to assist with availability.’

• ‘I’m vice chair safeguarding governor and chair of ﬁnance and resource committee. Commitment is variable but overall, 1 to 2 days per month I would estimate.’

to ﬁnd out more about becoming a governor, visit: www.ieg.ac.uk/join-our-board-of-governors/

Destination Excellence – Tenacity – Unity – Growth Brooke Hill Academy: Inspiring Excellence from the Very Start

Nestled on the edge of the Woodland Trust in Oakham, Brooke Hill Academy is a vibrant, happy, and high-achieving school where every child is supported to ﬂ ourish—academically, socially, and emotionally.

From the very beginning of their journey with us, our commitment to excellence is evident in everything. This mindset underpins everything we do, and is tailored to meet the needs of our children, their families, our dedicated staﬀ and our governing body.

We are proud of our aim which is to ensure that every child achieves at least nati onal standards, while also beneﬁ ti ng from an enriched curriculum that goes far beyond the classroom. Our extensive enrichment opportuniti es—ranging from inspiring subject teaching to our popular Forest School sessions in the nearby woodlands—create a dynamic learning experience where children thrive in all areas of school life.

Children can begin their Brooke Hill journey in our school’s pre-school, which gives them a strong and conﬁ dent start to their Recepti on year. This early investment in high-quality teaching and care lays ﬁ rm foundati ons for long-term success. Accessing our Preschool also ensures seamless transiti ons into their Recepti on year.

Our most recent Ofsted inspecti on (2024) rated us as Good, highlighti ng our ambiti on for every child’s learning and progress. We’re very proud to share that for the last 2 years we have welcomed our best ever phonics results, with 97% of pupils reaching the expected nati onal

standard. Our standards across school have far surpassed Nati onal expectati ons and seen us achieving record levels of Greater Depth standards.

At Brooke Hill, our vision is simple yet powerful: to inspire children today to create excellent futures. Our carefully designed, progressive curriculum is relevant, engaging, and rooted in strong learning intenti ons across all subjects. Through quality-ﬁ rst teaching and purposeful planning, we build on prior knowledge and prepare children to achieve their very best.

Our school has had extensive renovati on over the last 18 months. All classroom areas are designed to be inspiring, innovati ve spaces where children feel moti vated and supported.

This year we have welcomed Rhino Sports to our team. These are specialist Sports Coaches who deliver all PE sessions, support in class in the mornings and run our extensive wraparound care from 7:45 AM to 6 PM, alongside school holiday programmes.

At Brooke Hill, we understand the importance of being a school that truly supports families both inside and outside of term ti mes.

We warmly invite you to experience the Brooke Hill diﬀerence. If interested in Recepti on places for 2026, or a preschool place for next year, please book a personalised tour with our Headteacher, Mrs Anna O’Shaughnessy from September.

Data for 2025

Incredibly proud to share our outstanding national results this year with record levels of Greater Depth achievement.

Phonics 97% MTC 90%

Reading 82% Greater Depth 34%

Grammar 89% Greater Depth 52%

Maths 86% Greater Depth 48%

Writing 92% Greater Depth 18%

Tel: 01572 724214

Email: oﬃce@brookehillacademytrust.education Brooke Road, Oakham, LE15 6HQ www.brookehillacademy.com

Will your Pension Fund Pay Inheritance Tax?

Prepare For April 2027: From this date many inherited pension funds will be subject to Inheritance Tax

This is in addition to income tax

Will push many estate owners above the nil rate band limit (£325,000)

Will have 6 months to pay off the tax before significant interest is charged

There are some exemptions and ways to mitigate this impact – and we can help you with this

If these changes affect you contact us for an initial consultation at no cost or obligation

Landmark IFA Ltd is regulated and authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority: Firm Reference Number 225538

Contact Info:

Email: ifa@landmarkgroup.org.uk

Phone Number: 01780 761313

Warden’s House, Broad Street, Stamford, PE9 1PB

www.landmarkifa.co.uk

Back to School For Grown Ups

The autumn term is a potent season for renewal and growth. Rebecca Downey looks at ways in which local people can set new goals and take on an exciting challenge of self-discovery. Learn an ancient craft, grill up a storm or become a silver swan? The possibilities are endless…

The Right to Write – Darren O’Sullivan

Is it time to unleash that novel within? Bestselling author, screen writer and award-nominated theatre director, Darren O’Sullivan, will help you unlock your creative energy in his 6-week introduction to novel writing course at Stamford Arts Centre. ‘Everybody’s story has the right to be heard, this is not an elitist course, everyone in the room is a writer despite their background or experience,’ says Darren, whose previous participants range from 25 to 70 years old with interests in all genres including historical fiction, thriller and memoir. Darren was a teacher prior to writing his first novel, ‘Our Little Secret’, published by Harper Collins in 2017. Since then, he’s been prolific in the thriller genre publishing his tenth book ‘Win or Die’ earlier this year.

During the course, Darren will assist with structure, character creation, dialogue, plot devices and story-telling techniques. ‘We have fun with words because they’re juicy and delicious, we ask questions and play games to help develop writers’ ideas and

ambitions. It is relaxed and playful and will involve group readings, peer reviews and homework tasks. But there are also some oneto-one break-out sessions.’ Darren enjoys teaching and sees it as another way to exercise the mental muscles: ‘Sometimes we just need to unlock the back door and play in the fields a bit; I love helping individuals to realise their potential and seeing those Eureka moments.’ The 6-week course runs at Stamford Arts Centre from 18 September to 23 October for adults only on Thursday evenings from 7–9pm, £90. www.stamfordartscentre.com

Pam Austin’s Spinning School

Pam has been hand spinning for over 40 years. ‘I was a knitter first, so learning how to spin the yarn was a natural progression; now I don’t know whether I spin to knit or knit to spin!’ Pam finds the repetition of the movement has a meditative quality. She is convinced a lot of healing takes place during the activity: ‘The process really frees the blockages and helps to declutter the mind, and is a welcome reprieve from our reliance on tech.’ The ancient craft boasts all the sustainable green credentials: ‘It’s the cycle of life, the resource comes from creatures that graze the land, the natural fibres of the fleece become a pullover which lasts 25 plus years, it’s the work of your hands and your time, and the value in all that is immeasurable,’ she says.

With more people keeping goats and alpacas, the craft has enjoyed a resurgence, and Pam finds joy in sharing creative skills which are not part of the education system. Pam is the founding member of the Guild of Long Draw Spinners and is author of Hand Spinning – Essential Technical and Creative Skills.

Pam teaches the long draw technique on the great wheel in oneto-one or small groups from her studio near Market Harborough. Most people get to grips with the technique in a couple of sessions. She loans learners an Ashford Traditional wheel and enough prepped fleece for a simple project for four weeks. With some practice, most students have competent skills within the month. ‘It’s about creating your unique “signature” yarn, made in your choice of fibre, and in colours and textures that will put joy into your life. And that is only the beginning... further joys of knitting, weaving or decoration await!’

Pam’s studio is at Albany Lodge, Desborough Road, Stoke Albany, Leicestershire LE16 8PS. Beginners Spinning Starter Pack (£175) includes three hours of tuition across two sessions, plus loan of wheel for a month and supplies. www.spinningschool.org

Oundle School of Ballet

Principal Lisa Hunter teaches the Cecchetti method of ballet from the fabulous Studio at Fletton House in Oundle. Classes involve exercises at the barre and centre work with ability ranging from beginners to improvers and experienced. The health benefits of ballet include increased mobility, flexibility, cognitive acuity and serotonin levels; improved posture, memory, musicality; and lower blood pressure. It will also teach participants poise, grace… and a smattering of French. Ballet is both technical and creative; using both sides of the brain to realise pattern making, problem solving and reversing enchainment. Research has shown that dancers are more resistant to the effects of dementia.

As a former student of The Royal Ballet, Lisa’s expertise is undisputed. Several of her ballet students have become professional dancers performing with prestigious companies around the globe. However, Lisa also welcomes adults with a more relaxed approach, offering pay-as-you-go classes on Tuesday evenings 7.30–8.30pm and during the day on Wednesdays 1.30–2.45pm at £8 an hour, term time only. www.oundleschoolofballet.co.uk

Hoggy’s Grill

Matthew Hoggard Cooking School at Rutland Nursery is a must for anyone wishing to impress their friends and family and hone their gourmet grill skills. Former England cricketer Matthew Hoggard played international cricket from 2000 to 2008, but developed a passion for fire and flames at an early age, helped along by his family’s love of camping and the great outdoors. At 18 he was given the wonderful opportunity to live in South Africa for 6 months, playing local cricket in Johannesburg and also learning ‘braaiing’

(barbequing) from the masters. When he retired from cricket in 2013, he featured as a contestant on celebrity Masterchef, and, following that, Hoggy’s Grill was born.

Hoggy’s Grill offers a range of courses from Ultimate Burger (2 hours, £60) to four-course gourmet and seafood masterclass (both 4 hours, £200). The school also offers bespoke one-to-one sessions incorporating your choice of fuel and brand of grill, group sessions for corporate events and is the ideal birthday experiential gift or Christmas party outing. www.hoggysgrill.com

Sharon Akers Art classes

Sharon runs art classes in the Stamford Arts Centre and at her Woodnewton Garden Studio. For more information, see p136.

CLOCKWISE FROM OPPOSITE: Darren O’Sullivan; spinning wheel; Matthew Hoggard, aka Hoggy, whose Grill is at Rutland Nursery; students at the Oundle School of Ballet.

Bodhi the English Setter

Hoping to adopt another golden retriever, an online search led Caroline Atkinson to the discovery of a very special animal rescue charity. Amander Meade went to find out more about Bodhi’s story

DESPITE only working part time, with plenty of time for her dogs, Caroline was having difficulty navigating the UK animal rescue adoption process, so decided to investigate rescue charities further afield. ‘I came across Angels For Animals Foundation, a small UK volunteer-run charity that rescues mainly from Turkey. In Turkey there is no system to prosecute over animal cruelty or neglect, so prosecutions for animal cruelty are non-existent. This is why Katie Harrison, a commercial lawyer, set up the charity. As well as rescuing, Angels for Animals are also involved with neutering Turkish street dogs and finding homes for dogs surrendered here in the UK.’

After thorough research, Caroline contacted Katie to enquire about dogs that were due to travel to the UK and learned that post rescue, dogs spend several months in the Foundation’s kennels in Turkey to improve their health and receive vaccinations to travel. ‘We were thinking of another golden retriever until Katie sent me a picture of Bodhi, an English Setter, and the decision was made.’ More research followed and Caroline followed Bodhi’s 2,700-mile journey to a specialist sanctuary in Yorkshire to be monitored before rehoming.

‘If I take him to a coffee shop or pub, he likes to be “Mr Meet and Greet” and will stand wagging his tail’

‘We visited Bodhi mid-January 2023 and had no doubts about adopting him, so returned to collect him a couple of weeks later.’ In common with all good rescue centres, the procedure to adopt is thorough. Caroline had two interviews and a home check as well as the foster centre visit to make sure everyone was happy. ‘We had to increase the height of our garden fence, as setters can jump six feet, and I had a preadoption meeting with a behaviourist, so I knew how to welcome and settle Bodhi.’

Caroline thinks that Bodhi is around six years old but cannot be certain. ‘He was rescued along with two other setters that were caged with him. He had been kept in cramped conditions with no medical care or adequate food and water. He was incredibly timid

and the last of the setters to be adopted because it took him longer to trust humans. On arrival with us, Bodhi was still quite nervous and often had night terrors where he would make a howling sound, but these disappeared over time. He can be slightly timid with anyone new but generally now he loves people, and if I take him to a coffee shop or pub, he likes to be “Mr Meet and Greet” and will stand wagging his tail. He was not at all lead trained, so that has been challenging, particularly as he is not treatorientated, but we are making progress. He has the sweetest most loving soul and just loves his sleep.’

Now with his own Instagram account claiming almost 4,000 followers and as a Brand Ambassador for a couple of dog products, Bodhi is a canine celebrity and all the commission he earns for his efforts is donated back to the Angels for Animals Foundation, with Caroline regularly fundraising too. ‘When considering adopting from abroad, do plenty of research into the rescue organisation and speak to previous adopters about postadoption support, which is crucial. We have a WhatsApp dog behaviour support group where all the adopters and fosters can ask for help or pose questions at any time about their dogs. We have post-adoption Zoom calls monthly, which supply help from the behaviourist, and we also have a community chat WhatsApp group. You really do feel part of the Angels family. We will never know how Bodhi came to be in that cage, but those days are firmly behind him now and he’s been a fantastic addition to our family. We just adore him.’

The Angels for Animals Foundation needs people to foster, adopt and share the dogs that need homes by way of social media. Donations are greatly appreciated with every single penny guaranteed to be used for helping the dogs.

angelsforanimals.org.uk | @angelsforanimalsfoundation

STUNNING GARDEN CENTRES IN RURAL LOCATIONS

As autumn arrives, discover beautiful grasses and winter evergreens in our horticultural area. Then make yourself at home in one of our delightful eateries. Enjoy a tasty carvery or fish and chips in our Garden Restaurant, or for a lighter bite, relax in our Courtyard Coffee Shop. While you’re here, visit our Farm Shop for quality meats, vegetables and freshly baked bread.

GATES OAKHAM

COLD OVERTON, OAKHAM LE15 7QB

GATES WOODLANDS HINCKLEY STAPLETON, HINCKLEY LE9 8JE

PHOTOS: DANIEL SANDLER

A Birthday Dinner at The Olive Branch

Daniel Sandler arranges a birthday treat for his husband at this multi-award-winning pub in the Rutland village of Clipsham

MY ANNUAL ANGST – and it really does get tougher every year – is deciding where to take my husband Simon for his birthday. I asked around for somewhere really good, but not too far from home in Stamford. Without hesitation, a few friends suggested the multiaward-winning pub, The Olive Branch, in Clipsham.

I’d heard of it. Over the years, it’s earned serious accolades, including a Michelin star in the past. That made me wince slightly –Michelin usually means Michelin prices. Curiosity won. I booked a garden table for 8pm.

Arriving felt like stepping into a postcard. You walk through a front garden with tables dressed in kantha cloths, jugs of fresh flowers and wooden chairs with cosy throws. It’s all very ‘dinner at a friend’s country cottage’ – relaxed, thoughtful and quietly elegant. Gazebos keep you warm and dry. The path winds through lush shrubs and flowers to the main building: an old limestone pub tucked away at the back.

A glance inside revealed a traditional, rustic setup – wooden benches and tables, chalkboard menus, bottles and books on shelves. I didn’t spot the fireplace I’d heard about, but I was already imagining how lovely it must look at Christmas.

We were quickly greeted by Rebecca, our waitress, who welcomed us with a warm smile and led us to our table. She handed us each our own drinks menus (no awkward sharing here) and told us she’s worked there since she was 16 – now six years. Almost everything, she explained, is made and sourced locally. The young staff who checked on us throughout the evening were excellent: quiet, switched-on, friendly without being too chatty, and clearly knowledgeable.

ABOVE: Olive Branch ‘snacks’; little touches such as this thoughtful chalkboard note make all the difference; the exquisite gazebo setting.

OPPOSITE: carrot tartare; the birthday boy with beautiful personalised plate; the halibut main with prawns, bathed in a light, airy green foam.

‘Charming, confident and completely deserving of its reputation’

An Evening to Savour

We started with cocktails. Simon, a die-hard Negroni fan, chose the Apple and Pear Negroni, which he said was delicious. I went for the French Martini, light, refreshing and just fruity enough – no sugary sweetness. Then came two amuse-bouches – or ‘snacks’, as they called them – served on a bed of decorative black rice. One was a golden, crisp potato rosti with smoked mayo; the other, a bright fuchsia beetroot macaron. The potato rosti, although plain-looking, looking like a big fat chip next to its prettier pink companion, stole the show. Crisp, smoky and melting in the mouth, it made my eyes widen with joy. I can still taste it now. The beetroot macaron was delicate and delicious – a lovely teaser for what was to come.

We shared a starter: pickled poached carrot tartare with caramelised white chocolate, smoked mayonnaise, sea buckthorn and coriander pesto. Visually, it looked like a steak tartare – finely diced carrots still crunchy and gently pickled. The caramelised white chocolate formed a thin brûlée-like crust that added a satisfying crunch and acted as a pretty platform for edible flowers and herbs. The flavours played beautifully – sweet, tangy, fruity, savoury. Every mouthful was a new note.

For mains, I chose poached halibut with cucumber, oyster leaf, pink fir potatoes and tiger prawns. The halibut was firm yet tender and not ‘fishy’ at all – all bathed in a light, airy green foam. Two bright coral prawns sat on either side, adding colour and extra flavour. I’m still unsure about cooked cucumber, but the oyster leaf was incredible. It looked like a large basil leaf but genuinely tasted like a fresh oyster. So clever.

Simon went for slow-cooked beef short rib, topped with fermented cabbage, smoked mustard mayo and apple cider vinegar. It had that rich, dark chocolatey colour you want in slow-cooked beef. On top was a generous smear of mustard, then fermented cabbage – like sauerkraut – and, finally, a snowstorm of grated Lincolnshire Poacher cheese. To top it all off, he was handed three chunky rosti chips – the same ones from earlier. He knew I’d be jealous. As the waitress poured jus around the plate, the dish somehow became even more beautiful. Simon took one mouthful, closed his eyes, and was completely still. We barely spoke – except for occasional happy murmurs. It was that kind of meal.

Though full, we couldn’t resist dessert. I chose Eccles cake with Barkham Blue and Earl Grey, and Simon went for the Olive Branch Mini Magnum, a dark chocolate and vanilla number. My Eccles cake had a thin, crisp pastry that gave way to a warm filling of currants and finely diced lemon peel. It smelled like Christmas pudding and mince pies. Although the little blobs of Earl Grey mousse added only the subtlest of flavours, the soft, creamy blue cheese gave it richness and contrast, and the overall impressive was intense and delicious.

Simon’s Magnum was small, rich and elegant – the chocolate shell tasted expensive and the vanilla ice cream inside was creamy and deeply flavoured. Just the right size for someone who’s full but not ready to end the meal.

We knew from the first few bites this was going to be a special meal. Head Chef, Ben Fisher, wasn’t working that night, but his Sous Chef, Dean, did him proud. Every dish was beautifully presented and full of surprises. There’s a real sense of creativity and precision, but never at the cost of comfort or flavour. The classics are respected, then creatively reimagined.

Throughout the evening, the service remained low-key and professional. No clattering pans, no staff rushing – just a quiet rhythm, efficient and calm. It’s the kind of place where you can relax into the moment, knowing everything is taken care of.

The Olive Branch doesn’t try to be flashy. It doesn’t need to be. It’s charming, confident, and completely deserving of its reputation. The food is excellent, the setting thoughtful and cosy, and the whole experience left us feeling like we’d truly celebrated something – not just Simon’s birthday, but the joy of a beautifully done evening out.

Next time, we’ll come with friends. I just need to check whose birthday is coming up.

the olive branch, main st, clipsham, rutland le15 7SH 01780 410355 www.theolivebranchpub.com | @olivebranchclipsham

Frazer King Head Chef at The Red Lion, West Deeping

Frazer’s Recipe: Sumac & Thyme Roast Venison with Charred Sweetcorn Salsa & Blackberries

Ingredients:

For the Venison

140g venison loin

1 tsp sumac

1 tsp chopped thyme leaves

Pinch sea salt

For the Salsa

1 fresh corn on the cob

½ red onion – ﬁnely sliced

1 tbsp chopped chive

50ml cold pressed rapeseed oil

10ml cider vinegar

Pinch sea salt

For the Dressing

Small punnet of blackberries

20ml cold pressed rapeseed oil

To Serve

10 pieces plain popcorn

Small salad leaves

Method:

1. Mix the sumac, thyme and sea salt.

2. Roll the venison in the sumac mix and set aside to marinate.

3. Bring a pan of water to the boil and cook the corn for approximately 5 minutes.

4. Remove from boiling water and place in a hot dry frying pan or griddle plate to char. Keep the corn moving.

5. Once charred and cooled, remove the corn from the cob with a sharp knife and mix with the other salsa ingredients.

6. Lightly crush around half of the blackberries to release the juices before mixing with the remaining whole blackberries and rapeseed oil to form the dressing.

7. Rub the venison with a drizzle of oil and place in a hot pan to cook for 3 minutes either side. Remove from the heat and allow to rest for 5 minutes before slicing around ½ cm thick.

Q&A with Frazer

Background

Frazer has been working in kitchens for 15 years having started out at the Balmoral Hotel in Edinburgh. He then moved down to London to train under celebrity chef Mark Hix, the ‘godfather of seasonality’. After that he took the role of Head Chef at the award-winning Gunton Arms in Norfolk, where he began his passion with pub dining. Family brought him back to his roots in our region.

How would you describe your style of cooking? Elevated pub dining, a couple of steps up, but still good portions, and you won’t leave hungry! Also, we are ﬁercely seasonal, so our menu changes weekly, allowing us to choose the best local ingredients.

Favourite current dish on the menu Courgette ﬂatbread – onions, herbs, honeysuckle and nasturtiums, all from the garden. Our plantbased dishes are never second best!

A favourite ingredient?

Wild garlic – and using it into many di erent forms, so withered leaves, salt on fries, oils, purees, butters, pickled seed heads, fermented stems, etc.

A cooking ‘trick’ to share with readers Keep it simple, don’t overcomplicate things. Stick to three or four ingredients and cook them well!

A bit about The Red Lion Frazer and Emma took over The Red Lion in April 2021 after dreaming of running a pub for 10 years and moving back to their childhood homes. They started during Lockdown with a trestle table in the car park and, from the start, have felt hugely supported by the village. As Emma reﬂected ‘It takes a good village to run a good pub’. They have recently been awarded 2 AA Rosettes.

8. Share the sweetcorn salsa between two plates.

9. Fan out the sliced venison on top of the sweetcorn and drizzle the blackberry dressing around the dish.

10. Finish with the popcorn and add some vibrant salad leaves to decorate.

The Red Lion, 48 King Street, West Deeping PE6 9HP | 07421 977661 www.theredlionwestdeeping.co.uk @redlionwd

Starters

Baked pave of haddock, smoked cheddar rarebit, English tomato and baby leaf salad

Moroccan style crispy smoked feta pastries, pomegranate, sweet and sour beetroot, sumac onions, watercress

Mains

Garden herb arancini, courgettes, fine beans, sun dried olives, capija pepper ketchup, mozzarella fondue

Pressed feather blade of beef, clotted cream mash, braised carrot and a little mushroom, spinach and horseradish crumble tartlet

Dessert

Vanilla crème brulee, apples, blackberries, plums, hazelnut shortbread

Treacle and whisky tart, malt ice cream

Please book your table online at www.lakeisle.co.uk or call 01572 822951

for any Tuesday to Saturday lunchtime (2nd to 27th September)

The perfect venue

Nestled in the peaceful countryside, The White Hart provides an idyllic and intimate backdrop for heartfelt weddings. Enjoy exclusive use of our characterful venue, tailor-made menus designed by you, and warm, attentive hospitality— creating a relaxed, romantic celebration that’s truly your own.

Autumn dates available but filling fast— secure your perfect venue by calling 01780 740250 or emailing events@whitehartufford.co.uk.

01780 740250

The White Hart, Main St, Ufford, Stamford, PE9 3BH info@whitehartufford.co.uk

Indie Food & Drink

The Art of Preserving

Louise Goss talks to artisan producer, Andy Heaps about his award-winning chutneys, and learns more about the art and benefits of preserving our food for the future

THE BYTHAM KITCHEN

From the home kitchen of Andy Heaps come small jars of award-winning pickles, relishes, chutneys and marmalades. Now based in Bourne, he has been doing all the buying, preparing and cooking himself in his kitchen for the past 15 years. While his background was in teaching, he says: ‘I am a big foodie. I love food and love cooking and have always made my own jams and pickles, and have done a lot of foraging in the past. I really enjoy making things out of what I have foraged. When I initially started, I did a jelly which I had foraged from around the hedgerows… mostly berries, damsons, sloes, crabapples. Most of those things you can preserve.’ His process involved selecting the foods, boiling them all up with water, straining it and then boiling the leftover juice with sugar to create the jelly.

Now he focuses on chutneys and relishes, which are preserved in a similar way with the addition of vinegar and sugar. Both of those ingredients are what make them a long-life product (ideal for gifts when you want to get the Christmas shopping done early).

‘I use fresh ingredients, I cook it all here at home in a normal-sized maslin pan (a special jam pan). I chop it all by hand, I stand and stir it. It’s the love and the quality of the ingredients that go into it.’

Andy sources everything locally where possible. ‘Bourne is such a brilliant town for shops with the supermarkets, the greengrocers, and there’s the market on Thursday where I buy ingredients as well.’ However, he says he can often rely on friends and neighbours to supply him with apples from their trees in autumn if there is a bumper crop. ‘I spend about a week just peeling, chopping and stewing apples,’ he says.

While he has the usual red onion chutney, he likes experimenting and trying some more unique and exotic flavour combinations with tropical fruits and different spices. His range includes pineapple chilli, spicy apple and walnut, carrot and ginger, and a beetroot and balsamic. And chutney is not just for cheese. Picking up his best-selling Hot Pineapple Chilli Relish, he says: ‘This goes with everything. Try it with chicken, use it as a glaze on sausages before grilling. The cucumber bread and butter pickle, people just tend to eat from the jar with a fork; it is just amazing.’

Three Great Taste Awards would seem to indicate that his products are indeed delicious. He has also added two marmalades to his range. You can find The Bytham Kitchen products in some local garden centres and farm shops and having sold his products at various markets, he is now looking for more stockists in the Stamford and Rutland area. thebythamkitchen.co.uk/shop

PRESERVING

Preserving food has been something we have been doing for thousands of years. Drying is one of the earliest forms of preservation that we know was practised in ancient cultures and there is a huge variety of foods that we can preserve to store for later, and many benefits we may not necessarily consider.

Rosie Jameson, who used to make and sell jams and has now turned her focus to teaching preserving, believes it is a security against food shortages. She also says it means you know

exactly what is in your food and can avoid some of the more ultra-processed foods that tend to have the longer shelf life in supermarkets. ‘There’s a price to be paid for convenience… The inconvenience of having to make your own food [and preserve it] is negligible, and what inconvenience there is, it is so worth it in terms of how much healthier you will be,’ says Rosie. ‘If you’ve got food preserved on your shelf that you can rely on and you’ve learnt how to grow some of your own food, you’re so much more secure.’

There is also an economic benefit. Rosie notes: ‘You’re controlling the price. If you buy it now and eat it in several years’ time, you can make a safe bet that the price of that food will have gone up in that time.’

Most fresh fruits, vegetables and meats can be preserved through some of the most common methods including pickling, fermenting, canning, curing and dehydrating. The premise behind preservation is to remove as much water as possible, as the natural yeasts and bacteria, which would normally form moulds, will grow where there is more moisture present.

‘Water is key to all preservation. You remove water to some extent and then in some cases replace it with a natural preservative, such as sugar, salt or vinegar… You can use natural ingredients, no expensive equipment, and preserve your food for years.’ The simplest way to preserve food is dehydrating it, which you can simply do by hanging it up and sun drying or oven drying, although there is equipment you can buy if you want to start preserving more frequently.

By preserving fresh herbs that she gets, processing dried bread with seasoning to use as a breadcrumb topping, or even dehydrating mushrooms that she can then use as a mushroom powder to flavour soups and stews, Rosie also saves wasting a lot of food that would otherwise go off and get thrown away. She says: ‘A dehydrator is a really efficient bit of kit, that opens up a whole raft of possibilities… You can do whole meals and then vacuum pack it. It will last for years and years and years. You only need to open it back up and pour in boiling water and you have [for instance] risotto!’

Rosie now does a lot of pressure canning, which involves putting foods such as soups, stews, meats and vegetables into cans and heat treating them under pressure. The most useful product that she preserves is a vegetable stock that she can keep using as and when she needs it. She also finds making her own flavoured salts and jars of preserved fruits make lovely hamper items and gifts. You can find many of these recipes in her freely available library of resources. Rosie will be restarting lessons, teaching preserving methods and recipes in person in the New Year.

www.lovejars.co.uk/rosies-preserving-school/

‘Most fresh fruits, vegetables and meats can be preserved through some of the most common methods including pickling, fermenting, canning, curing and dehydrating’

A treat without the travel

Why battle with traffic, trains or planes when there’s a beautiful spot for a break within easy reach? The Welland Valley around Medbourne is full of history and cultureand perfect for walkers, cyclists and country sports devotees. It’s no surprise ever-more guests from Leicestershire, Rutland, Northamptonshire and Lincolnshire see our country hotel and pub as the perfect place for a ‘local getaway’.

Local briefing

News from the region this month

Reformer Pilates at Equilibrium Gym

Equilibrium offers a refined approach to Reformer Pilates, focused on intelligent movement, small group attention and lasting results. With a maximum of eight participants per class, each session feels personal, supportive and guided, more like semi-private training.

Grounded in classical Pilates principles, Equilibrium’s Reformer classes embrace slow, controlled, and precise movement. This is true Pilates – designed to build deep strength, improve alignment, and enhance overall body awareness. Instructors offer hands-on adjustments throughout the session to ensure proper technique, making each movement safer and more effective.

Director Simon Casey told us: ‘What sets us apart is our commitment to clarity and confidence. Every class features a dedicated demo reformer at the front of the room, allowing clients to visually follow each exercise before trying it themselves. For visual learners and beginners, this makes all the difference, eliminating guesswork and improving the overall experience.

‘Our studio features premium Reformers in a calm boutique setting, with expert instructors who understand how to adapt the work to your needs. Whether you’re looking to improve posture, increase mobility, or simply feel stronger, Reformer Pilates at Equilibrium is designed to meet you where you are, and move you forward.’

Before or after class, clients can enjoy on-site parking, rainfall showers and a relaxing sauna. With additional classes including Barre, Yoga and Mat Pilates, Equilibrium is a complete destination for mindful movement and recovery.

Equilibrium Gym + Fitness Ketton, Unit 1, Forest Park Industrial Estate, Pit Ln, Ketton PE9 3SZ | 01780 769899 www.equilibrium.fit | @equilibrium_ketton

From Colour Advice to Complete Renovations – Meet Studio Dee

Studio Dee is a local interior design studio based in Market Harborough, offering warm, considered design services across Rutland, Stamford, Leicestershire and beyond. Founded by Erica, who spent over 16 years working in the luxury interiors world, Studio Dee is built on the belief that great design doesn’t need to be overwhelming or out of reach. Whether you’re refreshing a single room, choosing a colour palette, or taking on a full renovation, Erica brings calm, clarity and creative expertise to the process.

‘I know how stressful it can feel trying to make the right choices for your home – especially with so much inspiration (and pressure!) out there,’ says Erica. ‘My role is to help cut through the noise and guide clients towards spaces that are beautiful, functional and personal – without the stress.’

Studio Dee offers a flexible range of services designed to suit different needs and budgets, from 90-minute design consultations through to full turnkey projects. Erica works with private homeowners as well as property developers, adapting each design to the lifestyle, goals and aesthetic of the client.

Known for her elegant, timeless style and thoughtful attention to detail, Erica makes the process feel effortless, handling everything from layouts and sourcing to finishing touches and styling. The result? A home that feels joyful, relaxed and truly yours.

If you’re planning a project or simply feeling stuck with a space, get in touch to book a complimentary 15-minute discovery call –erica@studiodeeinteriordesign.com.

@studiodeeinteriors | www.studiodeeinteriordesign.com

Katie Loveridge

Your local estate agent with The Agency UK.

I want to change the perception of estate agents for the better and show people the service that they should be receiving. I am passionate about doing things differently and offer a personal, one-to-one service with tailored marketing, honest advice, and support from start to finish.

I keep my client base small to give every home and seller the attention it deserves, using professional photography, standout video tours, and social media campaigns to get results. You’ll always deal directly with me – no handovers, no chasing.

What sets me apart:

• A one-to-one service, start to finish

• Bespoke marketing with professional photography and video

• A strong social media and online presence to attract the right buyers

• Available 7 days a week 24/7

• Deep local knowledge and honest advice

• A small, focused client base for better service

• I’ll help you find your dream home, behind the scenes and negotiate your onward purchase, to get you the best price

Let’s Chat

Whether you're thinking of moving or just exploring your options, I'd love to hear from you.

I’m always happy to chat, offer advice, or keep you in the loop on what’s happening locally.

Book your FREE taster session on our app: sculpt | strengthen | align

sessions guided by expert instructors to deliver

Local briefing

News from the region this month

Blossoms Counselling

Teresa Lewis talks about the launch of her new caring enterprise

‘As I prepare to open Blossoms Counselling & Therapeutic Services in Market Harborough, I’ve been thinking about a question many of us seldom pause to ask: When did I last check in with myself and genuinely query, “How am I?”

‘In the hustle and bustle of daily life – juggling work, family and social commitments – it’s all too easy to put our own emotional wellbeing aside. We get caught up in demands and distractions, often neglecting that inner voice that needs our attention. Before long, we may feel overwhelmed, drained or disconnected from how we’re truly feeling inside.

‘Do you find yourself simply pushing through, hoping things will improve on their own? Many of us carry unresolved wounds from past experiences – trauma, grief, or difficult relationships – that quietly shape our present feelings. Sometimes, it’s only when those emotions become too much to bear that we recognise their impact.

‘My work as a therapist is driven by a genuine desire to support others in understanding their inner worlds – I believe being heard and understood, opens up new pathways within our self-awareness, creating that first step toward healing, resilience and growth.

‘The opening of Blossoms is dedicated to creating a safe compassionate space and inspired by my hope to help you find the courage to look inward, explore your feelings, and discover the strength that already exists within you. Whether you are facing specific struggles, grappling with past traumas or simply feeling a bit lost or overwhelmed, support is available and waiting for you.

‘When you feel ready to begin your journey of self-discovery, I invite you to visit Blossoms at www.blossomscounsellingco.co.uk –I’m here to support you every step of the way.’

Stamford Time & Co

A new chapter in horological heritage has just begun with the official opening of Stamford Time & Co, a specialist watch and clock repair business based in the heart of Stamford. Founded by a team of experienced technicians and backed by local investment, Stamford Time & Co brings together traditional craftsmanship, technical expertise, and a personal touch, offering everything from routine servicing to intricate restoration work.

‘Stamford has a proud history and a discerning community. We’re here to serve them with care, precision, and a genuine passion for all types of timepieces,’ said Gemma Wells, Managing Director.

‘We have a passion for horology, preserving the art of craftsmanship and offering exceptional service to our discerning customers. With precision, skill and knowledge at the core, our team of technicians are expertly trained in all facets of watch and clock making, with decades of experience in servicing and restoring both modern and vintage timepieces.

What is striking when you visit though is that, whilst of course it is horological expertise that underpins the business, the vibe is very contemporary. You will be greeted in the Timekeepers’ Lounge, which is a relaxed, contemporary space to enjoy and network in, with a cup of tea or a glass of whisky. It has contemporary prints on the wall, and is the sort of place that you will feel like hanging out.

Gemma and her fellow Directors Nicholas Holt and David Acton all have first-hand experience of the watch and luxury goods market and have been brought together by their passion for all things horological. We wish them very well.

29 St Peter’s Street, Stamford PE9 2PF 01780 431662 | stamfordtime.co.uk @stamfordtimeandco

A new series of books along Gertie’s Path…

Gently-paced stories designed for an unhurried read. A heart-warming remedy for when the whirl of the 21st century feels just a little too much.

These stories are set within the Second World War, during key moments and through decisive battles … but they are essentially about an English village lad and his friends, helping where they can, fighting when they must and discovering country wisdom and common-sense hold true the world over, war or no war! … and of how to find a path through the worst of times … to recognise the best in each other.

Following the popular Salvaged Summer trilogy (1940-41), this new series of books continue along Gertie’s Path with the fourth book, The Tunisian Turnaround, being published this summer – already gaining reader’s recognition: “I have just finished the North Africa saga and dashed the sand and dust out of what used to be my ginger hair, now it is thin and white - loved it all the way.”

Dommy always knew her D.I.D. was going to make the story-telling unique but with her sister Kesriel’s guidance, together, they have embraced the mission. Being guided through by the principle: ‘Granny would-approve’.

Bk 1: Not So Safely Forgotten (England - Spring 1942)“OK, so they’re ALL over-here! Now what are we meant to do with ‘em?”

Bk 2: The Biscuit Tin Summer (Summer 1942)Allowances would have to be made. “He’s American. Ahhh, that would explain it” … but only so far.

Bk 3: Restless Torches (Autumn-Winter 1942)Country wisdom: if you want to know how to fix something, don’t wait until it breaks! “Good grief, Gertie, what have you got us into?”

Bk 4: The Tunisian Turnaround (a desert Spring 1943)The Yanks were reckless, the French were unpredictable, the Italians were unreliable … and the Germans were relentless. As for that American officer driving them into Tunis? There was no way he was qualified to deal with THAT! “You’ve come a long way from those gentle lanes of home, haven’t you lad?” [ahhh, dear readers haven’t we all!]

Available from Lincolnshire Life Online Shop, Walkers Bookshop Stamford, Ink and Ember Book Café Stamford, Colemans Bookshop Oundle, Bakes & Books Navenby and Lindum Books, Lincoln or directly from the ‘scrawny author’ at dommyallen63@hotmail.co.uk Individual books £8.99 + £3.99 (P&P) ea.

Local briefing

News from the region this month

Ride & Stride Rutland

Ride and Stride is a fun and challenging event to help preserve local and historic church buildings. This year Rutland, as well as other counties across England, will hold their event on 13th September. Last held in 2023, Ride & Stride Rutland raised £12,637 to help county churches preserve their historic buildings.

Participants are encouraged to visit as many churches as possible using their chosen mode of transport while simultaneously raising funds to support their nominated church and Rutland Historic Churches Preservation Trust.

While most participants opt to walk or cycle, there is a warm welcome for anyone who is prepared to undertake a quirkier personal challenge. Horse riders are invited to join, as are participants utilising unconventional modes of transportation such as unicycles or engaging in three-legged teams. Since 2013, not-somobile participants may be driven to churches but should reach the church door under their own steam.

Don’t forget, if you want to take part in the Rutland Ride & Stride charity event you will need to complete a registration form which can be found on the website.

If participants do not want to win a prize, they can simply selfrecord their visits to each church but to be in with a chance to win, they need to have their form signed by recorders at participating churches which will be open between 10am and 6pm on Saturday 13 September.

Guidance and forms for participants and church organisers can be found online on the Trust’s website: rhcpt.co.uk/ride-and-stride/

You can keep up to date with news about Ride and Stride prior to the event by accessing the Ride and Stride’s Rutland Facebook page.

Poetry & Short Story Writing Competition

Wingates Gallery in association with Creative Harborough and Harborough District Council are delighted to be launching this brand new poetry and short story writing competition across the Harborough District for all ages to encourage everyone to enjoy putting their thoughts into words and the potential to win some wonderful prizes.

Entry Categories:

• 10 & Under – Poetry

• 11–17 – Poetry

• 18 & Over – Poetry

• 10 & Under – Short Story

• 11–17 – Short Story

• 18 & Over – Short Story

The theme is ‘The Seasons’: spring, summer, autumn or winter.

Who Can Enter:

Each entrant must be a permanent full time resident within the Harborough District area.

How To Enter:

Full information and entry form on www.poetryandprose.org

Key Entry Dates:

• Opening date for all entries: Monday 1 September 2025.

• Closing date for all entries: 6pm on Thursday 16 October 2025.

• Entries received after this time will not be considered in any category.

Prizes (15 of these to be awarded overall):

• 1st Prize (in each category): £400

• 2nd Prize (in each category): £150

• Best Overall Poem – 11–17 Year Olds: Appointed Junior Poet Laureate by Harborough District Council from 1 January 2026 to 31 December 2027

• Best Overall Poem – 18 Years and Older: Appointed Poet Laureate by Harborough District Council from 1 January 2026 to 31 December 2027

• Best Overall Poem: Cup

• Best Overall Short Story: Cup

Local briefing

News from the region this month

Chameleon of Stamford

Giselle Brannan talks about her lingerie business, located right by the town bridge, and the importance of expert fitting

‘As autumn arrives, Chameleon Boutique invites you to embrace the season in comfort and style. With over two decades of fitting expertise, we handpick only the finest lingerie that combines elegance, support and comfort – ensuring every customer looks and feels their absolute best. Our standout brands include Marie Jo, ideal for smaller busts, and Prima Donna alongside Empreinte, designed specifically for fuller figures with a structured, comfortable fit up to M cup. The right lingerie is more than a luxury; it’s an investment in yourself. Expert fitting improves posture, enhances confidence and complements your wardrobe beautifully.

‘Quality matters, and while premium lingerie can exceed £100 per bra, you only need three to four everyday bras. By rotating and caring for your collection – either handwashing or using a lingerie bag on a delicate cycle – you extend the life of each piece. Premium bras can last a year or more, with a ‘cost per wear’ of less than 28p, while many high-street options lose their shape and support within weeks.

‘We can also help you find the perfect swimwear with top picks such as Lise Charmel, Gottex, Sea Level, Charmline, Marie Jo, and Prima Donna. Round out your holiday essentials with natural Caudalie skincare and loungewear from Marjolaine, DKNY and Cotton Real.

‘Discover the pleasure of expertly fitted lingerie and curated style and let us help you find your perfect fit. Book a fitting via our website and invest in your comfort, confidence and everyday joy.’

Chameleon, 5 St Mary’s Hill, Stamford PE9 2DP 01780 755405 | www.chameleonboutique.co.uk 134 | local briefing: september 2025

Tru-Clean

Locally based Tru-Clean is an independent company operating across south Lincolnshire, Rutland and the surrounding areas. They use the Reach & Wash Water System, which is a water-fed pole cleaning system using ultra-high purity water.

Owner Jacob Howe told us: ‘Leave it to us – no more chemicals, no more residue, no more working at heights and missing those hard-to-reach windows. All types of windows can be cleaned with ease. Another professional service we offer is driveway and patio cleaning. Using up-to-date equipment, together with the right chemicals and processes to give all types of surfaces a new lease of life. Look at the results – they speak for themselves.’

‘We are proud to offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee. We will always endeavour to visit all clients booked in our diaries and will work through all weather conditions, where possible.’

Services for residential and commercial cleaning include: window cleaning, patio cleaning and re-sand, driveway cleaning and re-sand, roof moss removal and cleaning, conservatory glazing and roof cleaning, gutter clearance, garage doors, and soffits and fascia cleaning.

CUSTOMER FEEDBACK:

‘I was really pleased with the service. A quick and friendly service that’s always reliable!’

‘As a new business owner, a window cleaner was one thing I thought of sorting last. Tru-Clean were more than happy to help me get my windows and gutters clean ready to welcome clients to the salon.’

‘Can highly recommend Tru-Clean, the standard of the service is great. I use Tru-Clean on a monthly basis, and they never fail to deliver a professional service that’s on time and reliable.’

07801 427307 | 01780 720262 | www.tru-clean.co.uk

Local briefing

Art Classes

Sharon Akers talks about her upcoming adult art classes

‘How many retirees say, “I’ve done my time?” Well, having taught Art and Design in schools and colleges for my career, I have definitely done my time! No more Year 9 boys drawing all over the whiteboard!

Just civilised adults wanting some time to be creative, learn some new skills and meet like-minded people who like art, good coffee and cake!

‘I like to experiment with materials that don’t behave and are unpredictable, often encouraging several different experiments to be happening simultaneously. I generally also work with natural, organic forms that are more forgiving and lead to a wide variety of responses. I want my clients to feel relaxed and encouraged to learn the value of trying out something new. Creating a convivial atmosphere with music, conversation, good coffee and cake are all conducive to producing beautiful, creative outcomes and to developing confidence.

‘My workshops/classes are small and personal, allowing each student to have plenty of attention, guidance and encouragement.

‘Lastly, and equally importantly, I love my job! It is all the good bits of teaching without most of the stressy bits! It is a privilege to see people create beautiful work that lifts their confidence and makes them feel good about themselves.

‘Having taught art and design for donkey’s years, I offer a wide variety of classes and also offer bespoke sessions for individuals, couples or small groups. I have a few classes coming up at the Stamford Arts Centre, and classes at my Woodnewton Garden Studio.’

07930 544783| s.akers937@gmail.com www.akersartclasses.co.uk | @akersartclasses

Matthew Wade Decorators

Looking for high-quality, reliable painters and decorators? Look no further than Matthew Wade Decorators, a family-run business based in Stamford with a passion for transforming homes and businesses. They offer a complete range of services, ensuring exceptional quality and a finish that exceeds expectations.

Residential Projects: Imagine your perfect home… A lightfilled kitchen that sparks culinary creativity. A cosy living room that reflects your warmth and style. A serene bedroom that lulls you to restful sleep. Matthew and his team can translate your vision into reality, whether it’s a brand-new build or a cherished heritage property in need of renovation.

Commercial & Industrial Projects: Looking to make a lasting impression on your customers and employees? Matthew Wade Decorators offers comprehensive commercial and industrial painting and decorating services across a 50-mile or so radius from Stamford. They transform spaces, from brand new builds to cherished heritage buildings in need of renovation. They quickly understand the unique needs of each project and are committed to delivering high-quality finishes that enhance functionality, aesthetics, and your brand image.

Areas of Expertise: New-build projects; renovation and restoration; interior and exterior painting; heritage work; rendering; spray plastering service; wallcoverings; exterior rendering; UPVC spraying; and timber window restoration.

CLIENT FEEDBACK:

‘Excellent work, completed on time to a very high standard. I was extremely impressed with Matthew and Ben’s workmanship…’

‘We have found Matthew to be very reliable, professional and knowledgeable while working with us on various restoration and new build project. The finished product is of a very high standard and Matt and his team have always helped us achieve deadlines.’

01780 592513 | 07849 508188 matthew@matthewwadedecorators.co.uk www.matthewwadedecorators.co.uk

photo: farrow & ball

We believe that building relationships through honest communication and providing outstanding service is as important as the projects we construct. With over 40 years experience in the industry, our teams of professionals have been trained to give you the best service from start to finish. We can guarantee results to be proud of, whether you are in need of roof repairs or a full roof replacement. Contact us on:

Heritage and listed property contractors, keeping the beautiful past preserved for the future.

Stamford’s leading flat roof contractor for over 40 years, fitting the best products at a price that reflects the lifespan and quality of the product.

Tel/Fax: 01780 754498

Mob: 07930 529905

Email: info@stamfordrooﬁng.co.uk

www.stamfordrooﬁng.co.uk • Roof refurbishment, restoration and renovation • Collyweston slating contractors • Glass roofs • Blue slating • Tiling • Flat roof contractors • GRP Fibreglass • Chimney rebuilds • Upvc fascia line • Flat to pitch conversions Purchasers survey reports • Maintenance contracts

I’M VISITING LAUNDE ABBEY today, partly for its historical significance. Like many viewers, I was blown away by the wonderful BBC dramatisation of Hilary Mantel’s Wolf Hall trilogy of novels, in which she brings to life the clever, haunted man who was Thomas Cromwell, Henry VIII’s chief minister and fixer of almost everything.

In 1540, he famously scribbled the phrase ‘Myself for Launde’ in the margin of a document. It signified his intention to acquire for himself the 12th-century Launde Priory, destined for dissolution, along with practically every religious house in the country.

‘There is an abbey, Launde, in the heart of England,’ says Cromwell. ‘The air is always sweet… A little heaven here on earth. I think to myself “I’ll live there one day when all my work is done.”’

I can understand how he fell in love with its setting – a still, perfect valley in the Leicestershire countryside, dotted with ancient trees and grazing sheep, one of those rare places that takes your breath away.

The sober truth, of course, is that he never realised his dream. In 1540, a mere few months after buying Launde from the Crown, Cromwell fell from royal favour. This powerful man, who’d spearheaded the seismic shifts of the Reformation, was arrested on trumped-up charges and beheaded on Tower Hill.

At least, Launde was granted to his family. His son, Gregory, who became Baron Cromwell of Rutland, began the gradual transformation from abbey to the H-shaped manor house you see today. In the chapel, the only remaining part of the original priory church, you’ll find Gregory’s fine Tudor memorial near the altar.

Through the next 400 years of Launde’s history as a house and estate, extensive modifications were made by different owners: the Tudor fireplaces, oak staircase, Jacobean panelled rooms and additions to the gardens and parkland, among many others.

The Magic of Launde

WORDS: PAMELA HOWARTH

In 1957, the last private owner generously gifted Launde to the Anglican diocese of Leicester, paying for all the alterations required, so that the Abbey, now run by a charitable trust, can offer residential retreats and conferences. My father came here, with members of his parish church, on one of the first retreats in the early 1960s –another very personal reason for my visit today.

Back to Basics

Like me, you may be wondering at the extraordinary twist of fate that has made Launde once more a place of peace, prayer and daily services, after 900 years. As well as the religious, Launde also offers cultural activities and events, such as the monthly classical concerts – you can even book a shepherd’s hut as a secluded writing pod! Today, I’m joining an archaeological tour, which proves very popular – in spite of the heat.

The grounds are especially tranquil and agreeable, be it The Quiet Garden & Churchyard, the orchard meadow, the walled garden, the woodland walk or The Way of the Cross, a self-guided walk in the grounds. Launde is open to everyone – of all faiths and none – to come and walk in the grounds or book a table for lunch. I’ve felt very welcome here, and a cream tea outside in the cobbled courtyard is a lovely way to end my first visit.

Cromwell lived in times of great change, as we do now, and the need to escape the world for a while has never been greater. Above all, Launde Abbey offers us the opportunity and special place to do this.

the dairy tea room, offering refreshments including a selection of lunchtime meals, is open daily, 10am–4.30pm to find out more, including details of concerts and events, visit www.laundeabbey.org.uk

ASK LEO

In Celebration of Sheep

THE WOOL TRADE

From the early Middle Ages sheep contributed greatly to wealth of this country. The wool trade was the king of industries from the Cotswolds to East Anglia. Lincolnshire was known for the quality of its fleeces and Northamptonshire, Rutland and Leicestershire were also great wool-producing areas.

Stamford, with a population of 5-6,000 in the late 13th century and good communications by road and water, became a very important centre. It had a sheep market on Barn Hill, was famous for its textiles and fleeces and textiles were traded with continental merchants at its Mid-Lent Fair. Even the king sent his servants to buy cloth. In the 15th century William Browne was a very successful wool merchant who left Stamford a continuing legacy in All Saints Church and Browne’s Hospital.

AGRICULTURAL CHANGE

The 18th century was a time of great agricultural change. From 1750 the Fens were drained and the Lincolnshire Wolds were converted into productive farmland. Across the Midlands there was widespread enclosure of land (previously farmed in strips) into fenced and hedged fields of grass. This enabled control of animals, the production of winter feed and heralded a move to livestock farming to feed a rapidly growing population. This was the era into which Robert Bakewell was born in 1725.

To mark the tercentenary of Robert Bakewell’s birth, Sue Lee and Jean Orpin have been looking at the role of Lincolnshire and Leicestershire in the history of sheep

STAMFORD SHEEPMARKET

By the mid-18th century Stamford Sheepmarket at the top of Barn Hill had become very inconvenient for the increasing number of sheep coming for sale in the town. The Council leased a part of Castle Dyke from the Earl of Exeter. It was levelled, and John Dixon designed and made new sheep pens. The Stamford Mercury recorded that the new market opened in October 1781, just the time when Bakewell’s fame had spread across the country.

ROBERT BAKEWELL

‘the most successful and celebrated experimental farmer ever known in England’ (Bakewell’s Obituary)

Bakewell was the third generation of his family to hold the tenancy of a large farm at Dishley, near Loughborough. His father was an ‘improving farmer’ who wisely encouraged his son to travel and study contemporary agriculture. Dishley was already becoming a ‘model farm’ when Bakewell took over. Throughout his life he experimented – he extended an irrigation system his father had introduced, he designed new buildings, tried new implements, grew and coppiced willows for fencing, tested manures and crops for winter feed, and kept a museum to record his findings. All this was to support his breeding experiments. He bred chickens and pigs, imported mares from Holland to improve large horses, and developed longhorn cattle, but it was with sheep he had the greatest success.

ABOVE: Robert Bakewell. The book ‘Robert Bakewell: Britain’s Foremost Livestock Breeder’ published in May 2025 by the New Dishley Society, is available from ndssecretary@gmail.com

ABOVE: Stamford’s historic Sheepmarket seen when it was teeming with its woolly namesake.

DISHLEY NEW LEICESTER SHEEP

‘I do not breed mutton for Gentlemen but for the public’ (Robert Bakewell) Bakewell probably started with the best stock he found in his travels around Nottinghamshire and Lincolnshire. He used inbreeding, a method believed to have originated with racehorses. As the breed developed, he worked with close friends and family members, encouraging them to use Dishley rams. Rather than sell his best animals, he established a system of ‘letting’ (hiring out) his rams at increasingly high prices – up to 90 guineas by the 1780s. Bakewell defended his pricing by saying that it made farmers more meticulous in their own breeding.

His particular skill was not just to identify attributes he wanted but to fix them in the breed. His breeding aims were ‘proportion, less offal, more meat, good texture and fattening at an early age’, and in this he was very successful. His most famous ram was called Two-Pounder, indicating that New Leicesters could produce 2lbs of meat to 1lb of other breeds. They matured in 1 year, compared with 2 years for Lincolnshires, reducing production costs substantially. They were also known for their ‘disposition to quietness’.

FAME BUT NOT FORTUNE

‘a mighty fanciful gentleman’ (Dishley resident) Dishley rams and Bakewell’s experiments were held in high esteem during his lifetime, partly due to his lifestyle and personality. He was known for his hospitality at Dishley – visitors were welcome, accommodated at the Grange and well fed by his sister. This included observers and reporters of agricultural trends who recommended his ideas. Bakewell continued his travels, publicising his work, and his many pupils, from as far afield as Russia, spread his methods. He even corresponded with George Washington, who based his farm on Bakewell’s techniques.

But this all came at a cost! Travels, open days, hospitality and his many experiments were all expensive, and customers did not always pay. Although Bakewell was criticised for his high prices, he was more interested in developing his breed than increasing his purse. He was declared bankrupt in 1776 but proceedings were so drawn out he was able to continue his work until friends and admirers such as the Duke of Rutland helped him out.

LEGACY

‘a pioneer of modern livestock farming’

FAR LEFT: painting of Robert Bakewell’s most celebrated, ram Two-Pounder.

LEFT: advert dating from 1817.

For many years after Bakewell’s death (1795), stock sales across the country would claim inheritance from Dishley rams, although, as tastes in meat changed and wool was also in demand, flocks of pure New Leicesters declined. In 1845 a report of the Rutland Agricultural Society names Mr Breedon as ‘the only possessor who has kept the Dishley breed pure uncrossed’ in the area. Bakewell’s scientific contributions to agriculture are, however, widely recognised, and his methodical principles were emulated by generations of breeders. His stock has formed the basis of many breeds still used today. In this tercentenary year of his birth, Robert Bakewell’s name certainly deserves to be remembered.

BAKEWELL’S LONG WOOLS TODAY

Old Lincolnshire sheep probably provided some of the stock from which Bakewell developed his Dishley rams. These were then hired out and crossed with Old Lincolnshire ewes to produce Improved Lincolnshires. By the middle of the 19th century, this breed was producing good lean meat and regarded by many as the best long wool breed. These sheep supplied the foundation of modern Lincolnshire Long Wools and they were exported to found flocks around the world. In this country Lincolnshire Long Wools have been acknowledged as a rare breed since the 1970s, but enthusiastic breeders carry on working for their survival.

Leicestershire Long Wools can claim direct ancestry from New Leicesters. They are hardy, easily managed, dual-purpose sheep providing good-flavoured mutton and long, heavy fleeces, popular with handspinners. They are, however, currently on the Rare Breeds Survival Trust’s endangered list because they have a limited number of ewes. Locally White Lodge Farm near Melton has one of the largest flocks of Leicester Long Wools. Their prize-winning stock provides breeding ewes and rams and fleeces for spinning, rugs and other decorative crafts. Long Wools are now an attraction at several Agricultural Shows. They continue to have a Class at Rutland Show, and earlier this year there was an International Conference at The Barnsdale, with breeders from New Zealand, UK, Australia, Sweden and the USA in attendance. There were updates from each country, and various subjects were discussed from rare breed status, breeding and health management to bio banking and preserving genetic material.

BELOW: Thank you to White Lodge Farm near Melton for these pictures of

their flock, taken by Michael Townsend. Left to right: Lincolnshire Long Wool; trio of Leicester Long Wools; Leicester Long Wools at Show.

You

Bill & Sue Crowe mob 07766833076 www.bcit.co.uk email bill@bcit.co.uk

Professional, efficient & respectful property clearance service.

We offer a free, no obligation quote.

Call Farley or Sid on: 07889 264433 or 07808 648123

Email: bwpropertyclearance@gmail.com

B&W property clearance

ROOFING

Stamford: Claudia Bayley, 07876 171063, claudia.bayley@btinternet.com

Nene Valley: Nicholas Rudd-Jones, 01780 765571, nicholas@bestlocalliving.co.uk

Rutland & Market Harborough: Tracy Watkinson, 01572 813187, tracy@bestlocalliving.co.uk

Whether you’re treating yourself to a meal from our two AA Rosette A la Carte menu, relaxing by the fire with a Falcon burger, or simply catching up with friends over a tipple or two! Madison Keys, Zak Perrin, and the team at The Falcon, warmly welcome you seven days a week!

Mondays-Thursdays:

Food served 12-2pm and 5-8pm, bar closes at 10pm

Fridays-Saturdays:

Food served 12-8pm, bar closes at 11pm Sundays:

Food served 12-3pm, bar closes at 5pm

What's on?

Darts Social nights!

(Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5pm)

Complimentary snacks provided in the evening

Fish and Chip Fridays!

Enjoy our local real ale battered Haddock and chips, crushed minted peas and tarragon tartare sauce all for just £10 between 12-8pm on Fridays!

Wood Fired Pizzas

Served all day Fridays and Saturdays

Gareth John brings it on home

WORDS: STEVE ROBERTS

GARETH JOHN moved from his native Leicester to Market Harborough in 2024. Gareth may be new to the town but he had produced and starred in what has become an annual concert at the welcoming Harborough Theatre a year earlier, and, judging by the standing ovation he received at the sold-out show I attended in July, the town has taken him to its heart. It is easy to see why – Gareth is a singer and trumpet player in the tradition of greats such as Chet Baker and Louis Prima. He cites those jazz icons as his major influences, alongside the incomparable Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin and Tony Bennett.

I also caught hints of Michael Bublé and – one of my personal favourites – Cab Calloway, in a performance that went from swing and sway to hi-octane jazz plus a touch of soul. His five-piece band is pure class, with Steve O’Gorman on saxophone, Steve Nutter on double bass/harmonica, Mike Sole on keyboards, Dave Anderson on drums and Market Harborough legend Fino Lopes on guitar. Special mention must go to Zoe Swann, singer, double bass player and mean nose trumpeter (yes, I do mean that literally). Gareth met Zoe when she came to one of his residencies at Leicester’s Merchant of Venice restaurant. A chat over a wine tasting revealed a classically trained jazz and folk singer from the USA with a sideline in Neuroscience! Gareth and Zoe tore the Harborough house down with their duet of Sam Cooke’s ‘Bring It On Home To Me’.

I must highlight some of the standards in Gareth’s set including ‘I Get A Kick Out Of You’, ‘My Funny Valentine’, ‘I Got Rhythm’

and ‘Putting On The Ritz’. These classic songs, impeccably sung, will likely feature in his national tour, which takes to the road again in September. The show is called ‘The Story of Swing’, and Gareth will be performing with a 15-piece big band and introducing special guests. The Story of Swing reaches closest to our region on 2 November, when it arrives at The Athena in Leicester (www.athenacb.co.uk).

This promises to be a very special gig, as it marks the launch of Gareth’s third album ‘The Other Side’*, which will feature a host of original material alongside some well-known favourites.

‘His five-piece band is pure class’

As if all that were not enough, Gareth is a member of funky brass band King Brasstards, who were sailing off for a festival gig on Guernsey the day after we talked. He is also one of The South, formed from the ashes of the late-lamented Beautiful South, and seems to find time to be a full-on family man – he and his wife have two children under five.

*The Other Side will be available on streaming platforms such as Spotify and Apple Music after 2 November. Gareth’s first two albums, As Long As I Am Singing and Live At The Deco are available now.

For more details and to enquire about booking, go to garethjohnmusic.co.uk

Design led...

We create unique buildings for discerning clients using traditional French oak alongside bespoke designs that can include glass, stone and steel. Our design and build service can cover every aspect of your project from initial concept to completion. Our passionate staff specialise in design led architecture, planning applications through to full working drawings, allowing our projects to seamlessly develop from concepts to full build construction.

www.natural-structures.co.uk