Rutland Living April 2011

PEOPLE • SHOPPING • FOOD & DRINK • ACTIVITIES

RUTLAND Living

& MARKET HARBOROUGH

£1.50 April 2011

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Shopping

Uppingham guide

Art

Lyddington winners

Food & drink Party time

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RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING

WWW.BESTLOCALLIVING.CO.UK

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S

ome more ideas for spoiling your mum on Mothering Sunday:

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1) Breakfast in bed with latest novel by Tony Parsons 2) A hand tied bouquet or a pretty plant in a planter from Pollen 3) A scarf from Jussi, the fabulous new gifty shop in Market Harborough 4) Blow the budget on a piece of Heidi Kjeldsen’s beautiful jewellery 5) Lunch at Barnsdale Lodge or dinner at Firenze 6) A voucher for a beauty treatment or a blow dry at one of our lovely local salons

22 SEAN HOPE’S RECIPE

33 KITCHEN COLOUR

IN • SHOPP

MARKET

HARBOROUGH

IES

Living

& MARKET GH HARBOROU

& RUTLAND

PEOPLE • SHOPPI NG • FOOD &

Perspective s

DRINK • ACTIVIT IES

Our heroes Air Ambulance

Motoring

Classic speed

KIRSTEIN

April

LIAM PHOTO: WIL

This issue

@LocalLivingUK

T • ACTIVI & DRINK G • FOOD

RUTLAND Living

PEOPLE

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£1.50 April 2011

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Shoppingguide Uppingham

Art

winners Lyddington

Food & drink Party time

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Up front – Dingley Point to Point, Jodi Aziz S Spring Collection, Ashton furniture and more Shopping – Guide to Uppingham Town Food and drink – Any excuse for a party!

Food and drink – Home Grown – Riverford’s Vegetable Solutions Eating out – Firenze, Kibworth and The Hunting Lodge Hotel, Cottingham Recipe – Sean Hope’s Kitchen Confidential: Mango Food and Drink – Grimsby Traditional Smoked Fish Health and Beauty – News and offers Fashion – Spring Fashion Home interiors – Kitchens: Go Colour Crazy!

Classic car racing – Round the track in an old favourite Art – Art in Lyddington Winners Local walk: Morehay Wood, Southwick Perspectives Local Heroes, Air Ambulance Gardening – Nick Hamilton looks at jobs for April Motoring: Outside Lane – helping you buy the best car Titillations – The King’s Speech What’s on in our region?

Profile – The Rutland Shepherd

Well we are spoilt for choice really living where we do. I bet it’s not so easy in the city…so no excuse!

Abigail LATE IN • Sat 9th April at 7.30pm: OPERA SHOWCASE at Langham Parish Church Miranda Heldt and friends from The Guildhall School of Music and Drama will perform a selection of Opera, early and romantic, accompanied by Alex Osiatynsky. Tickets £10 to include substantial refreshments in the interval.

Contact numbers Tel: 01572 723533 or Tel: 01572 757435 • April 12th – 16th. At 7.30pm and also a matinee on Sat 2.30pm: Rutland Musical Theatre presents ‘Half a Sixpence’ at Uppingham Theatre.

Tickets from Freeway Travel, Uppingham, Tel: 01572 822702

SUBSCRIBE TO Rutland & Market Harborough Living 4

38 ART IN LYDDINGTON WINNERS Editor Abigail Richardson 01572 756733 Local Living Ltd, PO Box 208, Stamford PE9 9FY abigail@bestlocalliving.co.uk Advertisement Manager, Rutland Tracy Watkinson 01572 813187 rutlandliving@btinternet.com Advertisement Manager, Leicestershire Helen Walton 01780 754801 helen.stamford@btopenworld.com Advertising Copy & Subscriptions Rachel Beecroft 01780 765320 rachel@locallivingdesign.co.uk Head of Design Steven Handley steve@locallivingdesign.co.uk Assistant Designer Nik Ellis nik@locallivingdesign.co.uk Publisher Nicholas Rudd-Jones 01780 765571 Email: nicholas@bestlocalliving.co.uk Printed by Warner’s of Bourne

17 ANY EXCUSE FOR A PARTY Cover Rutland Living – Thanks to William Kirstein for the cover, ‘I Believe in Windsurfing’, WINNER Rutland Photographer of the Year category: Sport, The book ‘Our Rutland’ due out soon Cover Market Harborough – Derbyshire, Leicestershire & Rutland Air Ambulance crew, see page 43

Subscriptions – annual rate £20 in the UK, £30 overseas surface mail (including postage).

Please write to The Editor, enclosing cheque made payable to Local Living Ltd Or subscribe online at www.bestlocalliving.co.uk

RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING April 2011

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LOCAL NEWS

Upfront What’s new this month

Jodi Aziz Scarves for Mother’s Day This Spring Jodie Aziz has all you need to give your wardrobe an effortlessly chic and vibrant update with some affordable luxury and the perfect gift for mother’s day without even having to go to the shops!

• Logon to www.jodieaziz. com or call Tel: 07787547842 for further details.

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

Come and join Dingley Races....

Dingley races will meet again over three dates; Easter Saturday (23rd April), Sunday 15th May and Sunday 29th May. Hosted by the Woodland Pytchley, Fernie and Harborough Race Club, Dingley is a great day out for all whether you’re a race enthusiast; take an interest in local events or just like the chance to enjoy the countryside with friends and family.

The sport of point to point uses a cross country track rather than the usual race track and is a sport which is not just for the “elite”, but for amateur riders, often participating with their own horses.

Not only is the sport for “all”, Dingley is the ideal location: set on a hill with the view of the course in front of you....you can take a stroll round the stalls in between races, or join the bustle of the bar as you cheer on your steed. Many watch from their car with a sumptuous picnic and glass or two brought from home.

A regular attendee of Dingley commented, “I go every year and you can never predict what is going to happen during the races. One year I placed a bet on the “under dog” and although it was at the back, all the other horses pulled up, meaning I won! Not only is it a great opportunity to enjoy the sport, it’s a favourite date for my friends and family to meet up and enjoy the company, refreshments and beautiful setting.”

Entry is £15.00 for car and driver, plus £5 for each additional passenger. Each of the meets has its own “flavour”, culminating with the final date, hosted by Harborough Race Club as “Ladies Day”, with a prize for the best dressed. The first race will be at 2.00pm but those wanting “the best spot” are welcome to arrive from 10.00am.

• For more information you can visit www.dingleyraces.com

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RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING April 2011

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Barnsdale

HUNTING LODGE HOTEL

Wake up to the beauty of Rutland

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Hall Hotel country club

live it... love it... own it! from just £1,200

*

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*annual maintenance fees apply

Easter Sunday Lunch 3 courses plus coffee - £17.95 Royal Wedding – 29th April Come celebrate the Royal Wedding in style Come and watch the ceremony from our big screens followed by a running Gala Buffet during the day - £14.95 per person April Special Offer Dinner, Bed and Breakfast for 2 people £89 per couple Steak Night – Every Friday 2 x steaks plus a bottle of wine - £20

Ownership from only £250

...An Oasis of Tranquility

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• DISCOUNT to dine in fabulous onsite restaurant • DISCOUNTeD rates for rooms at Barnsdale Hall Hotel all year round • YeAR ROUND FRee concessionary membership to leisure facilities

Call Kayleigh today to discuss ownership or rental opportunities

01572 725148

Sunday Carvery A delicious roast carvery - £9.95 High Street, Cottingham, Market Harborough, Leicestershire. LE16 8XN Tel; 01536 771370 - www.huntinglodgehotel.com

or email Kayleigh.reid@barnsdalehotel.co.uk

Come join us at Dingley Races

A day out for all; watch the races from your car, the track or bar A natural amphitheatre and a leading point to point course on your doorstep Tote, Trade Stands and Refreshments on site

Saturday 23rd April Saturday 15th May Saturday 29th May Admission on day: £15.00 per car & driver - £5.00 per passenger 1st Race 2.00pm Dingley Racecourse, Dingley, Market Harborough

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LOCAL NEWS

Upfront You’re the Boss!

Boss Stone Masonry Limited has celebrated two recent industry awards by launching a fully interactive website to enable potential clients to view their portfolio. The Rutland based company has swiftly built up an enviable reputation for their outstanding service in listed building and period property restoration as well as traditional new build design and construction.

Co-owner Helen Taylor told us – “We have been established for over twelve years and are very proud to say that the vast majority of projects undertaken are through recommendation by previous clients and architects.” Helen puts this down to the sympathetic approach championed by the Boss Stone team – using reclaimed materials wherever appropriate and employing traditional techniques. “Our clients range from private individuals requiring basic repointing work, to major ecclesiastical refurbishment.” It was one such project that led to a recent award for craftsmanship by the Diocese of Leicester, supported by English Heritage. The company has also been awarded a George Philips award for the sympathetic restoration of a derelict village dwelling.

Helen believes that experience and insight as well as good relationships with local authorities are the secrets to planning success – especially if a listing is involved. Many people are put off attempting any development work to a listed property but according to Helen and her husband Darren, a listing need not necessarily

Bisbrooke before

Bisbrooke after

be prohibitive. Darren is a specialist in design and planning so Boss Stone are able to offer a comprehensive design and build service.

“We are lucky enough to have retained all the craftsmen and subcontractor specialists that

Five Years of Personalised Marquee and Wedding Service

A young Rutland couple, Tom and Hannah Dodson of North Luffenham, are about to celebrate their 5th year as owners of the prestigious Rutland Marquee Company.

The Rutland Marquee Company is renowned for delivering a highly personalised and professional service. Hannah Dodson’s love, and expert eye, for aesthetics and attention

to detail is what makes Rutland Marquees the county’s leading wedding events company.

After three years as working as an interior designer for a local company, Hannah, alongside husband, Tom, bought The Rutland Marquee Company and together they have worked with over 100 brides and grooms, gathering some very moving letters and gifts

we recruited when we launched and it’s these excellent, long term working relationships that lead to the smooth running of a project.

Our clients deal with the same team of people from the very first ideas meeting right through the design process, budgeting, planning advice and submission, building regulations and build management which makes the whole process more straightforward.”

Darren and the team are happy to provide ideas and inspiration on projects of all sizes and a collection of images of recently completed work can be viewed at www. bossstone.co.uk • Contact Helen Taylor for more information Tel: 01664 474794

of appreciation. Hannah says, “I really do love to work with people to help them realise their vision for their special celebration, from the venue itself right down to the very last finishing touch. Even when we work with people on the most sombre of events, it is a honour to help provide customers with exactly the day that they want.”

Tom Dodson heads up the physical marquee side of the business and keeps a close eye on his customers’ wishes so that he can offer the right range of marquees, including a brand new ‘Chinese hat’ marquee and the increasingly popular village hall linings.

“Our range of marquees ensures that our clients have the very best, sturdy and safe environment and we only use clear span structures because there are no centre poles and no guy ropes.”

This year marks a new phase for The Rutland Marquee Company as they start to partner with more exclusive venues to offer a wider range of beautiful environments for bridal and private parties as well as working with small businesses across the county.

• For further information visit Website: www.rutlandmarquees.co.uk or call Tel 01780 729201

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LOCAL NEWS

Upfront Opera in Italy Throughout Italy there are a whole host of cultural events, festivals and musical performances taking place throughout the year where one can experience local character, colour, classical music and world famous opera performances.

The Puccini Festival takes place during the summer months along the Tuscan coast or in Lucca. This festival celebrates the composer’s work and is held in the 3,100 seat open air theatre in nearby Torre Del Lago, 25 km from Lucca. Famous pieces such as La Boheme, Tosca, and Turandot are amongst the performances in this unique festival. Oundle Travel can obtain tickets for all operas and tickets start from £33.00 per person.

The world famous opera festival in Verona offers an opportunity to enjoy some of the best opera performances that Italy has to offer and experience the effect of the natural acoustics of the open air theatre including, Aida, La Traviata, Nabucco, Romeo and Juliet and, of course, The Barber of Seville.

A good base on the Tuscan Riviera known as the Versillian coast, is a long stretch of coastline punctuated by pretty coastal resorts with the Apuan Alps as a backdrop. The chic and stylish

resorts of Viareggo and Forte dei Marmi with their golden sandy beaches are sure to delight, whereas the nearby towns of Lucca, Pisa and Florence provide the ideal opportunity for a day exploring. The world famous promenade in Viareggo is filled with stylish boutiques, pretty shops and individual restaurants. Stay in the 4* Bryon in Forte dei Marni from £991 per person bed and breakfast for 7 nights in August 2011.

If you prefer to stay in the countryside, perched on a hillside, overlooking the rolling hills of the Chianti countryside, an ancient estate, Le Fontanelle, has been lovingly restored into a beautiful country hotel. Tastefully decorated in a chic, country style throughout

the hotel also has a wonderful gourmet restaurant serving local Tuscan specialties and is the perfect setting to enjoy the romantic, candlelit ambience during the balmy summer evenings of Tuscany. This property also has a stunning outdoor swimming pool with spectacular views of the rolling Tuscan landscape. Staying in July 2011 – 7 nights from £1020.00 per person bed & breakfast.

• All prices include flights into Pisa. Oundle Travel can also arrange rail travel to Italy from London St Pancras, or why not take the rain one way and fly home? For more information please contact Oundle Travel on Tel: 01832 273600.

Considering the needs of a building project in a sensitive area Moss Beck Limited, based in Uppingham, is a building company that was founded 20 years ago, and over that time has been providing both a building and a design service with a particular emphasis on working with sensitive projects, such as buildings in conservation areas – especially so within Rutland and the surrounding areas.

With professionally qualified staff and a well trained workforce, Moss Beck pride themselves on their capability to work with these more demanding projects, and in particular with historic and listed buildings.

Renovation and restoration work forms a very significant part of Moss Beck’s activity, using traditional materials and techniques such as stone, limecretes, lime plasters, mortars, and natural insulating and decorating materials.

Moss Beck are firm believers in energyefficient and environmentally friendly, methods, even in older buildings, “The thought of trying to make an old building more energy efficient can seem challenging, but clients are surprised at how much improvement can be achieved using simple, straightforward techniques”, says Anna Bussey - who is

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

As part of the day, there was a fabulous prize draw supported by several of the exhibitors, and there were the winners.

Gemma Brennan (right) from Bytham won the top prize of a hamper with a selection of luxury food and drink items provided by Chefs Thyme www.chefsthyme.co.uk .

Other prize draw winners were: • Abigail Foulkes of Stamford won a Bridal consultation and Bridal Make

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responsible for Moss Beck’s design work.

“Finding solutions that satisfy both the Conservation Officer and the Building Inspector can be challenging at times”, adds Anna, “but with a wealth of experience in this area, we can usually find a solution that satisfies both interests”.

Having a building partner who is sympathetic to the needs of the building and the client is very important, and is something that is not lost on Moss Beck.

• You can contact Moss Beck on Tel: 01572 821657, www.mossbeck.com

over for her wedding - Courtesy of Suzi Smith Studios Contact: info@suzismithstudio.co.uk or Tel: 079555 7610806 • Alan Bonner of Stamford won Dinner and an over night stay for 2 courtesy of Barnsdale Hall Hotel - Contact Tel: 01572 757901, www.barnsdalehotel.co.uk • Kerry Buckenham of Wisbech won a full portrait session courtesy of Andy Fountain Photography – Tel: 01480 455856 • Rebecca Bloomfield of Cottesmore in Rutland won £100 worth of shopping vouchers Pamper day - courtesy of Clarins, Nails inc and Personal shopper at Debenhams in Leicester • Sarah Drewberry of Market Deeping, Peterborough won treatments and lunch courtesy of Belton Woods De Vere Hotel in Grantham. Tel: 01476 514354 www.devere.co.uk/our-locations/belton-woods • Amy-May Crick of Stamford won an overnight stay and dinner for 2 courtesy of Belton Woods De Vere Hotel & Spa in Grantham • This year’s Essential Weddings event takes place on Sunday Nov 6th at Burghley House For tickets at or to book a stand call Sonja on Tel: 07799 792201 or visit www.essentialmediaevents.co.uk

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Oak House Residential Care Home for the Elderly

• Care home providing high quality care in comfortable ‘home from home’ surroundings • Dedicated ground floor respite care room/trial visit room, with en-suite available now, rate £575.00 per week.

• Rated ‘Excellent’ by the CQC - see our Inspection Reports online at www.CQC.org.uk • Oak House prides itself on offering high quality care in a pleasant friendly home environment • Room rates from £525 to £650 per week To request a brochure or for more information

please

telephone us on 01572 812647 or e-mail us on dcw@oakhouse28.fsnet.co.uk

www.oakhouse-carehome.co.uk Pond Lane, Greetham, Oakham, Rutland, LE15 7NW

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SHOPPING

Guide to

Uppingham The pretty market town of Uppingham is a rabbitwarren of side streets and passages, all home to some unique and exciting shops. Catherine Batkin seeks out her favourites to ensure you don’t miss out on what this great destination has to offer Directory Gilberts Antiques and Furniture, 8 Ayston Road, Tel: 01572 823486 Ballgown Heaven/Impact (clothing), 4 Orange Street, Tel: 01572 822390 Black Orchid (clothing), 12 Orange Street, Tel: 01572 820135 Made Gallery, 14a Orange Street, Tel: 01572 822002 Sloanes Hair and Beauty, 8 North Street East, Tel: 01572 820333 Falcon Hotel, The Courtyard, Market Place, Tel: 01572 823535 Beans Coffee Shop, 3 High Street East, Tel: 01572 823953 Nook (interiors), 5b High Street East, Tel: 01572 822577 Carl Love Opticians, 8 High Street East, Tel: 01572 822920 Uppingham Sports and Books, 9 High Street East, Tel: 01572 822211 Pitch and Little Pitch (clothing), 10a High Street East, Tel: 01572 820020 Wish of Uppingham (gifts), 10b High Street East, Tel: 01572 823510 Uppingham Antiques Centre, 17 High Street East, Tel: 01572 822155 Earthworks Florist, 22 High Street East, Tel: 01572 822276 Twist of Uppingham (clothing), 30 High Street East, Tel: 01572 821390 Baines Tea Room and Bakery, 1a High Street West, Tel: 01572 822776 Forest Books, 7 High Street West, Tel: 01572 821173 Rutland Antiques Centre, 4 Crown Passage, Tel: 01572 824011

OUR PICK OF THE BEST: Rubinstein Keightley, 7 North Street East, Tel: 01572 822051, www.rubinsteinkeightley.co.uk Independent jewellers specialising in handmade bespoke jewellery by commission, created on site by skilled goldsmiths and gemmologists.

They also offer high quality jewellery repairs and evaluations.

Artisana, 6 Market Place, Tel: 01572 822056 Whether you are looking for interior decor and gifts from home grown British designers or from far flung places, you’ll find ideas to suit every budget at Artisana. There’s also a comprehensive paint and fabric library at very competitive prices and 20% off purchases for their loyalty card holders.

Woodbine Contemporary Arts, Falcon Hotel Courtyard, Tel: 07980 167404, www.woodbinecontemporaryarts.co.uk Established in 1997, Woodbine Contemporary Arts specialise in high quality fine art and

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ceramics, showing a wide range of work by both established and emerging artists including Rutland based Catherine Headley, and work by gallery owners Liz and Rowan Yorath.

GoldMark Gallery, 14 Orange Street, Tel: 01572 821424, www.goldmarkart.com The GoldMark Gallery have over 40,000 20th Century and contemporary art pieces in stock including original prints, paintings, drawings and sculpture. Between the 2nd and 30th April, there will be an exciting exhibition by one of the UK’s top potters, Nic Collins; make sure you don’t miss it.

Caab Living, 6 High Street East, Tel: 01572 821810, www.caabliving.com Interiors and gift shop stocking coveted brands such as Laura Ashley Home, LSA Glassware, kitchenware from Alessi and Jamie Oliver and a range of unusual Stealth lighting and Ambient Lounge chairs. Open 7 days a week.

Simply Scrumptious, 11 High Street East, Tel: 01572 820385 A traditional sweet shop that is home to a huge range of old fashioned confectionery as well as delicious fudge which is made on the premises.

Large giftware section at the back includes

party paraphernalia, greetings cards and baking accessories.

Lake Isle Restaurant, 16 High Street East, Tel: 01572 822951, www.lakeisle.co.uk For a special occasion, a tasty lunch or fine dining in the evening, you must try the Lake Isle. To view the seasonally changing menus, enquire about room or table bookings, please feel free to pop in, visit the website or give them a call.

The Uppingham Carpet Company, 24 High Street East, Tel: 01572 821581, www.uppinghamcarpets.co.uk With over 20 years of experience within the carpet and flooring industry, the Uppingham Carpet Company team offers expert advice from purchase to installation. So, whether you’re looking for natural floor coverings, high quality carpets or wooden flooring, there’s never been such a wide range of brands to choose from.

Sarah Harding Interiors, 27 High Street East, Tel: 01572 823389 Renowned interiors shop offering a design and make-up service for curtains, upholstery and furniture restoration as well as supplying paint,

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wallpaper, cushions, accessories, home wares and gifts from designers such as Cath Kidston and Emma Bridgewater.

and bags as well as practical offerings which include umbrellas, homewares and gifts for all age ranges.

The Real Kitchen Company, 29a High Street East, Tel: 01572 823187, www.realkitchencompany.co.uk A small, family business, offering a complete service from design through to professional installation. The extensive showrooms feature the Neptune solid wood, hand painted kitchens which are characterised by quality soft close drawers, adjustable shelves and fully framed cabinets.

The Glass Slipper, 3 Queen Street, Tel: 01572 829800 Ladies’ shoe shop stocking footwear for all occasions including the Fitflop and Hush Puppy brands for every day comfortable casual wear and party heels from Ravel.

HeatSource, 35 High Street East, Tel: 01572 829953, www.heatsource-of-uppingham.co.uk Heatsource of Uppingham provides an extensive range of premier stoves, fireplaces and traditional designer cast iron radiators.

Whatever your style needs and design requirement, Heatsource has a whole range of products to suit.

The Banyan Tree Too, 9 High Street West, Tel: 01572 821556 A treasure trove of affordable gift ideas including gorgeous jewellery, cover-ups, scarves

Essence Hair and Beauty, 1-2 Crown Passage, Tel: 01572 822715 An upmarket Aveda salon offering a wide range of beauty treatments including facials, waxing, body treatments, massage, make-up and extensive hairdressing services.

The Olive Kitchen, Printers Yard, Off High Street East, Tel: 01572 822588, www.theolivekitchen.co.uk A friendly delicatessen famed for its delicious olives, Mediterranean food, crepes and waffles.

Quaint courtyard area tucked away from the high street, perfect for sampling some of Tony’s delicious food in the warmer weather. Outside catering services also available.

Uppingham School Sports Centre, Leicester Road, Tel: 01572 820830, www.sportscentre.uppingham.co.uk Newly opened sports centre featuring a six lane swimming pool, fitness studio, gym and dance studios and outdoor facilities including tennis courts. Suitable for use by all members of the community; there are various membership options, facility hire and children’s swimming lessons. Open until 10pm most days, allowing for after-work use.

Uppingham Summer School, 34 Stockerston Road, Tel: 01572 820800, summerschool@uppingham.co.uk Comprehensive programme of courses offered during Easter and summer holidays including sports activities such as cricket, rugby and dance and music and drama.

Rutland Veterinary Centre, 12a Ayston Road, Tel: 01572 822399 Veterinary surgery offering quality care for domestic pets and expertise for larger farm animals with a dedictaed support service for farmers. 24 hour emergency service based in Uppingham.

RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH Living April 2011

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The Glass Slipper Quality Ladies’ footwear and accessories

Be Inspired!

3 Queen Street, Uppingham, Tel: 01572 829800

Stockist of:

converse • esprit • ravel • menbur • hush puppie fitflop • red foot • josef seibel • hunter • yoma • adesso • capollini laidback london • el naturalista • earth spirit • ipanema nica handbags • funky jeweller • zandra rhodes handbags

NEW converse-kids NEW season fitflops

Come and have a look

It’s springtime at

Everything you need to make Mother’s Day and Easter extra special!

Yummy!!

Traditional Sweet Jars and Baskets Made To Order

Sheer Indulgence!

Luxury Handmade Chocolates and Fudge

Let’s Celebrate!

Fantastic Cake Decorations and Partyware For All Occasions

Finishing Touches!

Stunning Cards, Wrapping Paper and Gift Bags

Inspirational!

Truly Special Gifts for Special Friends and Loved Ones.

11 High Street East, Uppingham, Rutland, LE15 9PY - 01572 820385 Open 9 – 5.30 Monday – Saturday, 10 – 4 Sunday

Visit us Mon-Sat 10am-5pm, 8 St Mary’s Hill Stamford Lincs PE9 2DP Tel: 01780 767878 www.siriusjewellery.co.uk

Good building companies do exist, and we are one of them.

We are a well established building company, with a reputation for craftmanship, reliability, friendliness and professionalism, and a particular expertise in historic and listed buildings.

If you are considering home improvements, conservation work, alterations, extension or other building-related work, including design, planning and building control services, we can help you.

We offer free advice on all aspects of Town and Country Planning, Listed Building applications, and Conservation Area Consents. If you are considering altering or extending your home, converting buildings into living accommodation, or building a new property in your garden, we have a wealth of experience to call on.

Call us now on 01572 821 657 View all of our services and a range of previous projects online at:

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Alan Ayckbourn’s award-winning comedy.

PRODUCTION

6 - 28 MAY DIRECTED BY PAUL KERRYSON

A bittersweet farce dealing with marital tensions in the kitchen!

TICKETS 0116 242 3595 www.curveonline.co.uk

A SEASON FOR LOVE, COMEDY & FAMILY FUN Leicester Theatre Trust Limited. Registered Charity 230708

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Bespoke Catering...

For advice and further information please contact M 07778 227 734 E info@saramcallister.co.uk www.saramcallister.co.uk

saramcallister

PROFESSIONAL CATERING

For further info call Sarah Rivett on

01572 747909 or 07970 576882

The Firs, 5 Barrowden Road, Morcott, Rutland, LE15 9DQ email sarah.rivett@virgin.net

Venue Dressing & Event Design Koru can decorate and transform any venue, ensuring your event will be unique and your day an exceptional and memorable occasion.

For all enquiries please call Justine: 07957 134536 email: mail@koru.uk.com - www.koruevent.wordpress.com

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T

his may be the most expensive mumble? Life was so much easier. hearing aid in the world, but is To re-learn how to hear again it the most valuable? ... takes time. But with the right help, If you can’t hear it doesn’t matter guidance and hearing aids the at all whether your hearing aid is process is easy and will improve gold, silver or plastic. What does your quality of life tremendously. matter is that you can hear well What price for good hearing? with it.

Well maybe not the £25,000 for It’s not until it’s gone that the device opposite, but for as little you realise ... as a few hundred pounds you can If you find you can’t hear as start enjoying better hearing again... clearly as before, or you can’t hear in not too much to pay for such an noise as well as you should then you improvement in your quality of life. could be suffering from some Call Caroline or Joan Now on hearing loss. It’s only when you start to lose your hearing that you 01572 759182 for an immediate appointment: realise how valuable it is.

Widex Inteo ‘m’ series hearing aid & remote control - gold and diamond set, valued at £25,000

Remember when you enjoyed sitting at your dinner table with all your family... laughing and listening to their news? Remember when the music on television wasn’t so annoying? When people didn’t

Oakham Medical Practice, Cold Overton Road, OAKHAM

(by appointment only please).

Healthy Hearing

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FOOD & DRINK

Any Excuse for a Party!

Whatever the size of your celebration, make sure you enjoy yourself by letting one of the region’s catering specialists take the strain. Amander Meade explores

I

nspired by reaction to her cooking, Chef Helen Blackwell has named her company …just delicious… Helen offers professional hospitality and catering services from intimate dinner parties to weddings. Helen’s bespoke cupcakes are always a popular choice and can be personalised to suit the event.

The Olive Kitchen specialises in catering for weddings, large parties and events.

Owner Antony Savage says, “Our paella parties are very popular and provide something a little different. We offer a completely self contained service and can easily cater for up to five hundred guests.”

Choose from paella, savoury and sweet crepes and other deli delights.

The team at Sporting Pigs provides hog or lamb roasts and partners James and Justin have a combined expertise of twenty years rearing pigs on a Suffolk Farm as well as running a world class butchery business. “The hog roast can be carved directly from the back of the machine, or alternatively the pig can become the centerpiece of your catering.”

Sarah McAllister has twenty years experience in catering and provides stylish and imaginative food for special events and parties. “Our range includes canapés for cocktail parties, dinner parties, hot and cold buffets, christenings, wedding receptions, themed parties and corporate events. We will tailor the service to your requirements be that classic, contemporary, grand or casual.”

Olive Branch at Home provides dishes that are perfect for a hassle free dinner party. Simply place an order and everything is prepared for you to heat up and present.

Sarah Rivett runs The Rutland Gourmet and offers a wide variety of menus to please all palates.

“If you know exactly what you want or if you need a little help choosing, we can provide the answer.

We even offer a tasting service so that you can come along before your function and taste samples of our fayre.”

Prykemans Catering have a wealth of experience in catering at events from the smallest gathering to very large functions and wherever possible source ingredients locally. For ideas see their brand new website at www. prykemanscatering. co.uk.

Koru are a Rutland based event design agency who specialise in wedding design and planning. Justine Harrison told us, “We offer a variety of services rather than packages which gives us greater flexibility to create an event absolutely unique and individual to you. Our services include styling, venue co-ordination and full logistics including lighting, catering, music entertainment, invitations, flowers – and the list goes on….

Raise a Glass…

Helen Blackwell from Just Delicious

The Grainstore Brewery offers a complete mobile bar service and pride themselves on exceptional levels of service. “As well as the bar, each booking includes a team of fully trained and experienced staff, plus full insurance and licensing.” Choose from a wine bar, a bottle bar or a full bar with draught beers.

Duncan Murray Wines of Market Harborough offer a superb and unusual range of wines, beers and spirits. “Our team can help with all your wine requirements plus advice for weddings or events.

Here’s what one customer reported - “Duncan’s help with choosing the wines for our wedding was absolutely invaluable…this kind of personal service is something that is very hard to find and makes the whole experience so much easier and more enjoyable.” Home delivery, sale or return and a glass hire service with no need to wash them before returning is a major time saver.

Directory Duncan Murray Wines Tel: 01858 464935 www.duncanmurraywines.co.uk Just Delicious Catering Tel: 07747 020502 Koru Events Tel: 07957 134536 www.koruevents.wordpress.com Prykemans Professional Catering Services Tel: 01572 813303 www.prykemanscatering.co.uk Sara McAllister, www.saramcallister.co.uk

Sporting Pigs Hog Roasts Tel: 07709 677 911 or 07879 691 976 www.sportingpigs.co.uk The Grainstore Brewery Tel: 01572 770065 www.grainstorebrewery.com The Olive Branch Pub and Shop Tel: 01780 410355 www.theolivebranchpub.com The Olive Kitchen Tel: 01572 822588 www.theolivekitchen.co.uk The Rutland Gourmet Tel: 01572 747909 www.rutlandgourmet.co.uk RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING April 2011

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FOOD & DRINK

Home Grown Riverford’s Vegetable Solutions The much-maligned cauliflower needs a makeover. Whether it’s the school dinner associations or its unwavering presence on supermarket shelves, most people give this traditional brassica a hard time.

In its defence, cauliflower is a really useful standby in the ‘hungry gap’ of April and May, when very few home grown crops are ready for harvesting

I

n terms of storage, a healthy, undamaged cauli is surprisingly hardy and will keep pretty well in the fridge for a fortnight. You can eat cauliflower raw, lightly steamed, stir-fried and boiled. You can even eat the leaves, which as long as they are still healthy can be very succulent and sweet to eat. The important thing is not to overcook it, or you’ll end up with a school dinner smell and mushy veg. Break the head into even florets, then boil or steam until they still have some bite. As well as the obvious cauliflower cheese (definitely include the leaves and try adding mustard to the sauce), use it to replace broccoli in a soup with stilton; the cauliflower will break down and give an interesting texture. It’s also great with pasta.

There are thirty six different cauliflower recipes on Riverford’s website, all delicious and all absolutely free to download. From the Spanish Crisp cauliflower below, to the curried cauliflower soup, and even parsnip, carrot and cauliflower korma.

Visit the recipes section on www.riverford.co.uk/sacrewell. Also log on for information about the new “box to grow”

Recipe: Spanish Crisp Cauliflower From the Riverford Farm Cook Book Serves 4 as a starter or side dish Ingredients: 1/2 cauliflower, broken into small florets 2 tbsp gram flour 1 tsp paprika sunflower oil for deep-frying 1 dsp good quality red wine vinegar 1 tbsp capers, soaked in cold water for 20 minutes, then squeezed dry and chopped 1 tbsp chopped parsley sea salt and freshly ground black pepper Method: Cook the cauliflower florets in boiling salted water for a few minutes, until just tender. Drain the cauliflower well and, while it is still hot, put in a bowl with the flour, paprika and some salt and pepper. Mix it all together until the cauliflower is coated with flour.

Heat the sunflower oil to 190°C in a deep-fat fryer or a deep, heavy-based saucepan.

Fry the cauliflower florets in batches until crisp and golden, then remove from the oil and drain on kitchen paper.

Sprinkle with the vinegar, chopped capers and parsley and serve.

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RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING April 2011

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A fabulous place to eat ...

A fabulous place to eat ...

The Noel @ Whitwell

A fabulous place to eat…..

We do light lunches and quick bites through to long relaxed dinners… there’s something for everyone.

Sunday @ The Noel Join us for our set Sunday roast, one, two or three courses.

Full lunch menu also available – there’s lots to choose from

Weddings @ The Noel Tailor made civil ceremony and reception - talk to us about your requirements

A fabulous place to eat ...

Stay @ The Noel Eight en-suite bedrooms, ideal for short breaks or for staying over after a long evening with friends.

Main Street, Whitwell, Rutland, LE15 8BW T: 01780 460347 - E: info@thenoel.co.uk - www.thenoel.co.uk

Mamma

THERE’S A SPECIAL PLACE RESERVED FOR MOTHERS ON SUNDAY 3RD APRIL Book today and make sure your’s is sitting at one of them

Firenze 0116 279 6260 firenze.co.uk Boboli 0116 279 3303 bobolirestaurant.co.uk

OPENING IN SPRING 2011 Fully refurbished and under new management, a stylish cafe bar offering quality food, good coffee and friendly service on the shores of Rutland Water. With indoor and outdoor seating, you can relax and enjoy a drink or meal whatever the weather, 7 days a week.

Coming later in the year, watch out for our first floor Seafood Grill Restaurant and Bar offering the finest fish, shellfish and quality steak dishes, complemented by a selecton of fine wines.

Private functions, weddings and corporate lunches catered for.

o t d r a w r o f k o o We l g y o u s oo n seei n

Un ow der n ner ew shi p

North Shore, Rutland Water, Whitwell, Oakham, Rutland, LE15 8BL Tel: 07963808841

accoMMoDation, restaurant & private Dining an historiC venue With a Contemporary styLe, for speCiaL oCCasions, events & ConferenCes

Mother’s Day – 3rD april - 2 Course set LunCh £19.50 inC tea or Coffee. (a La Carte aLso avaiLabLe) easter - 22nD to 25th april - food served aLL Weekend. royal WeDDing Brunch & hog roast – 29th april - starting from 10am

cookery DeMonstrations By Brian Baker £35 pp inCLudes 2 Course LunCh With gLass of Wine.

17th May – aLfresCo dining 20th sept – easy eating 15th nov – getting festive

Serving Food, Lunch & dinner, 7 dayS a week

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Elli Dean

www.ellideanphotography.co.uk

WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY

For full information about my rates and packages or to see more of my work, go to the website, or call/email me on 07932 055548 / yael.dean@gmail.com

www.ellideanphotography.co.uk

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EATING OUT

There’s Italian and then there’s Firenze!

How many favourite restaurants can a girl have?

Abigail Richardson and mum enjoy great service and a gourmet lunch for two Another birthday to celebrate so, I decided to take my gourmand mother to my favourite place. Mum wouldn’t prioritise ‘Italian’ but then she has never eaten at Firenze where the food is unmistakably Italian, worthy of several Michelin stars and is fine dining at its best. What is particularly noteworthy is the outstanding service, managed by Sarah Poli.

Sarah has catering and hospitality in her blood; her family owned a restaurant in Lincoln before running the popular Welford Place in Leicester. Sarah’s impressive CV boasts management positions at Le Petit Blanc in Oxford, when Bruno Loubet was at the helm, at John BurtonRace’s L’Ortolan at Shinfield, near Reading and finally at L’Enoteca Pinchiorri, a 3 star Michelin in Florence, where she met Lino. And ‘Firenze’ was born.

Firenze has been described by The Financial Times as, “One of the finest Italian restaurants in England, with an immaculate, ever-changing ‘all Italian’ wine list with food that reminds one of how food should really taste.” Praise indeed and it certainly didn’t disappoint.

There were two menus (and specials) to choose from. The Menu Mercato offers real value for money (at £22.50 for 3 courses) but we were celebrating and chose from the main. I’m very sorry to report that we only had two courses, so you are really going to have to go and try the rest yourself, but actually you don’t need any Antipasti as the complimentary hor d’oeuvres and homemade breads, served with the most irresistible olive oil for dipping, are plentiful (but don’t tell Sarah I said so).

I opted for Pan fried scallops on a tomato risotto with pesto (£9.50).

The risotto was al dente and the scallops huge, yet delicate. Mum had Whole megrim sole with lemon and capers and a side of seasonal vegetables (£20) - she was very impressed. Lemon mousse with honeycomb and spiced oranges and Chocolate and hazelnut millefeuille with poached pear and raspberry sorbet followed. And I genuinely don’t know what to say! Utter heaven, but huge portions especially as coffee came with several stunningly beautiful homemade ‘pasticcini’.

I have already booked to go back when I hope to try the taster menu and the celebrated wine list this time, please.

Contact: Firenze restaurant, 9 Station Street, Kibworth Beauchamp, Leicestershire, LE8 0LN. Tel: 0116 2796260, www.firenze.co.uk

Hunting Lodge Hotel, Cottingham Amander Meade and family explore an independent local hotel that offers the best of service and great value for money The charming Hunting Lodge Hotel remains privately owned and is tucked away in the tranquil village of Cottingham. Four of us enjoyed a weeknight supper there after a pre-dinner drink in the relaxed Butt and Barrel Bar before being greeted by Owner and General Manager Philip Ritchie Smith.

As Philip showed us around, it was clear that the hotel’s ample space lent itself beautifully to larger functions and was ideal for weddings – in the summer months.

If you do business locally, requiring an overnight stay, the hotel has fifty three rooms and also boasts four, fully serviced, cosily furnished cottages in the grounds where the original eighteenth century stable block of a neighbouring Manor House has been tastefully converted. For conferences or training purposes, the hotel can accommodate numbers between four and one hundred delegates at reasonable rates.

The value for money continued as we enjoyed our supper in the Flintlock Restaurant. A starter and main course for the adults with my daughters opting for a main course and pudding – two courses were £18.95 and the portions were very generous. Between us we tried the Garlic Prawns on a Herb Salad, Olive, Tomato and Parma Ham Salad with Traditional Fish and Chips and Chicken Caesar Salads for main course.

The puddings were demolished with relish and all the food was beautifully presented and served throughout by a highly professional and welcoming team. We are hoping to return soon to try the popular Sunday Carvery.

Contact: Hunting Lodge Hotel, High Street, Cottingham, Market Harborough, Leicestershire, LE16 8XN. Tel: 01536 771370, www.huntinglodgehotel.com RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING April 2011

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SEAN’S KITCHEN CONFIDENTIAL

King of the mangoes Alphonso mango season is here, which gives plenty of opportunity for experimenting with flavour combinations. By Sean Hope

Y

ou can’t argue with a mango. Their sweetness, unique texture and slightly perfumed essence mean they can be combined with several ingredients to create some truly memorable flavours, particularly in salads and puddings.

If the mango is the king of fruits then the Alphonso mango is the king’s boss because it’s regarded as the best-tasting of them all: the juiciest, sweetest and most fragrant. Seeing as there are hundreds of varieties of mango – from the thick-skinned Kent to the rather amusingly named Tommy Atkins – finishing top of the class is no mean feat. A native of India – the country that exports the most mangoes by far – with a short season running from April to May, the Alphonso can be identified by its outer skin, which is more yellow than green.

It’s named after Afonso de Albuquerque, a 16th century Portuguese nobleman who found them on his travels.

Around now, throughout May and into early June, you should be able to find Alphonsos in good supermarkets. When you do, dust off your cast-iron skillet, because that’s the best cooking vessel to use to make a tarte tatin, which is the perfect destination for your mango (see my quick-fire recipe).

If you want to experiment with mango – and, of course, you can use other mangoes instead of Alphonsos – try combining with coconut in desserts or add to salsa and serve with fresh fish for a delicious, summery flash of flavour.

Sean’s quickfire recipe

M ango ta rte tatin

Serves 4 • 2 mangos (Alphonso or otherwise) • Knob of butter • Generous sprinkling of soft brown sugar • Puff pastry • Crème fraiche • Lime zest • Skin mangoes and cut each into two large pieces.

• In thick-bottom cast-ir on frying pan (12cm to 14cm in diameter), me lt a knob of butter over a medium heat and sprinkle generously with soft brown sugar.

• Place mango pieces rou nd-side down in pan.

• Roll out puff pastry to 2mm to 3 mm thick, 14cm in diameter.

• Lay pastry over top of fruit and tuck pastry in around edges of pan .

• Put the pan into an ove n and bake at Gas Mark 7 (220C) for 8 to 10 minutes until pastry is golden brown.

• Remove and turn out onto plate.

• Divide into 4 and serve with creme fraiche and finely grated lime zes t.

Did you know?

80% of mangoes sold in UK supermarkets are a variety known as Tommy Atkins, a type first grown in Florida.

Sean’s knife tips I recommend that you forget those really expensive knives you can buy and get a goodvalue set from Victorinox’s Fibrox range (try www.nisbets.co.uk). Here are my musthaves: • General cook’s knife with 6in blade (£12.99 at www.nisbets.co.uk) • Boning knife with 5in rigid blade – handy for removing cuts from around the bone (£10.99) • Filleting knife with 6in flexible blade – bendy blade gives great flexibility when filleting fish (£12.99) • Paring knife with 3in blade – great for prepping small veg (£2.49) • Vogue speed peeler – the fastest, cheapest and easiest peeler you can buy (£1.49) It’s also a good idea to get a diamond steel sharpener and you should hone the blades frequently, one swipe after each time you use them.

Other mango combinations to try: • With chilli for a lovely dash of sweetness and heat • With pine essences to boost that perfume (get pine essence from wholefood shops or use pine honey) • With Mint • With lime or Kaffir lime leaves

Sean’s seasonal must-buys for April What Sean will be cooking with at the Olive Branch and Red Lion VEG Purple sprouting broccoli, Leeks FRUIT Mango and pineapples MEAT & FISH Skate, Wild salmon, Poultry , Pork

8 NENE 22 RUTLAND VALLEY & MARKET LIVING July HARBOROUGH 2008 LIVING April 2011

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Room to Live

Image of Local installation

by QKS

t.

Es

Est

Loca

. 198

l Comp

1 - 30 Ye

an

y

ars

Creators of finest quality bespoke Orangeries & Conservatories Orangeries Lanter n Rooms Conservatories Windows Doors Folding Sliding Door Systems Vertical Sliding Windows Roofline Products Porches Heritage Secondary Glazing

Showroom Cherryholt Road, Stamford, PE9 2EQ - Tel: 01780 756666 Mon-Fri 9am-5pm, Sat 10am-3pm

www.qks-ltd.co.uk 23

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GorGeous Footwear & Bags

For Women: Fly London • Replay • Miss Sixty • Converse FitFlop • Bourne • New for Spring - Irregular Choice For Men: Replay • Fly London • J Shoes • Cushe FitFlop • Converse

Spring forward...

A couple of true stories that will lift your spirits as the lighter days come upon us at last.

A customer put an insurance claim in for a lost and much-loved diamond ring. It had disappeared

10 St Mary’s Road, Market Harborough, LE16 7DU Tel: 01858 465118. Open: 9.30 - 5.15 Mon to Sat

www.gorgeous-online.com

in the garden and had gone forever. Or so she thought....until one fine Spring day several years later. Her husband was tending to the flowerbeds and beckoned his wife to come into the garden as there was something he was desperate to show her.

Blissfully unaware of what she was about to be shown, the husband simply pointed at the freshly emerged cluster of snowdrops.

Suspended on one of the delicate flowers was the missing diamond ring.

The other tale, is of a re-discovered Omega watch, lost years before and then re-found whilst digging in some compost for the tomatoes in the greenhouse. Subsequently repaired and refurbished and enjoyed once more.

3 Coventry Road, Market Harborough, Leicestershire, LE16 9BX

Tel: 01858 468858

Satchels, friendship bracelets, salad bowls, leather handbags, silk scarves, cosmetic bags, bracelets, silver jewellery, pure wool throws, home fragrances, coated linen trays, diffusers, earrings, room sprays, outdoor candles, recycled glass, flower glasses, fashion jewellery, linen scarves, solid silver bangles, photo frames, brooches, embroidered shawls, vintage linen cushions, eco water bottles, hardbound notebooks, organic cotton baby blankets, jute shoppers, oil bottles, clutch bags, linen kitchen cloths, hairslides, handmade cards, nostalgic children’s books, naturally fragranced candles, felt lights, wire baskets, decorative glass tea lights, jewellery boxes, knitted slippers, necklaces, jewellery rolls...

in a word…

9 Adam & Eve Street | Market Harborough | LE16 7LT

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FOOD & DRINK

Sole Food George Enderby’s Grimsby Traditionally Smoked Fish is naturally smoked in 100 year old traditional brick smoke houses above smouldering embers of wood shavings.

Sarah Lyon reports

of fresh fish arrive in port and are sold at auction market. We are fortunate to have fish from fisheries in Norway and Iceland where the waters are well managed.”

Unique to Grimsby are the traditional smoke raditional fish smoking is a natural and slow houses of the early 1900s that have survived process where brined fillets of haddock are the test of time. Richard Enderby explains, placed on speats (long stainless steel rods) to “A cluster of traditional smoke houses, each drain throughout the day before being placed with their own unique and individual features, in smoke house chimneys to be cold smoked stand cheek by jowl to each other. Most are overnight. The chimneys have openings at the listed but leasehold, leaving them vulnerable top and bottom to allow a draught of cool fresh to the restructuring efforts of their landlord, air to mingle with the smoke as it rises, creating the Association of British Ports. It is the special ‘cold smoking’ which the important that this cluster of process requires. The walls of the Terry traditional smoke houses chimneys have been allowed to is out on the remain an integral part of gather a coating of tar over rivers and washes of our cultural and culinary many years – essential a s day r fou The Fens three to heritage.” in imparting the unique ce eeling sin week. Terry has been For more flavouring that cannot ght cau ays he was a lad, “I have alw information go to be produced by any just stuck.” them,” says Terry. “It www.alfred other method. ngs ppi oak chi Eels are smoked over enderby.co.uk, “Because of the n, sto Bo in e hom and logs from Terry’s Tel contact 01472 nature of the process, ny along with ma Lincolnshire and sold 342984 capacity is limited,” ts rke ma at other smoked products says Richard. “The region. Stamford, the und aro obvious route for us m Oakham and Uppingha is the quality route. We Markets. Contact r’s me Far have EU protected status Tel: 01754 82026 (meaning that only haddock

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smoked the traditional way in Grimsby can be called Grimsby Smoked Haddock. One of only four awards given to Seafood in the UK) for codifying everything.

There’s no cutting corners. This is what separates us from the mass market.”

“In contrast, modern mechanical kiln smoking has become a popular method of smoking but is less green,” says Richard. “The smoking process is speeded up using electrically-run heaters and fans where fillets are sealed in an electric oven regulated by turning dials. A much quicker method of smoking with the result that the product loses out on the distinctive taste and aroma that traditional smoking methods creates.”

“My granddad was a compass adjuster when the fishing boats used to leave from the port here, but that’s all in the past now, as there are few boats left in Grimsby. These days containers

George’s Fish Pie

The tradition of eating fish on Good Friday has been about since medieval times.

2 good sized smoked haddock fillets (boned) • 1 lb of potatoes • 1 oz butter • 1 clove of garlic • 1/2 pint of milk • 3 oz grated cheddar • 1 teaspoon of mustard • 2 tomatoes • 1 tablespoon of corn flour 1. Mash potatoes until soft and creamy 2. Place smoked haddock into a pan of cold water and bring to boil. Then drain off the water.

3. Sauté the garlic in butter and make a roux with the corn flour.

4. Add milk.

5. Stir until it thickens, and then stir in the cheese and mustard.

6. Flake the smoked haddock and add to the sauce 7. Spread mashed potato around the side of dish then pour cheese sauce mixture into the centre.

8. Sprinkle with grated cheese and arrange slice of tomato on top.

9. Grill until cheese is bubbling, then serve.

Sarah’s tips: You may use flour in place of corn flour to make the roux • It is helpful to heat the milk before adding to the roux • Use a balloon whisk to make cheesy sauce • Use locally produced Lincolnshire Poacher cheese (Stamford Farmer’s Market)

RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING April 2011

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HEALTH & BEAUTY

Health & beauty

news

Treat yourself (and a friend) at Stapleford Park

Catherine Batkin looks at the latest offers to get you feeling great for spring

The Little Therapy Centre New to Oakham High Street is The Little Therapy Centre which is home to one of the latest beauty experiences, The Garra Rufa fish pedicure experience. Originating from the warm waters of Turkey, the fish produce an antibacterial enzyme renowned for its healing properties which gets to work as the toothless fish gently suck and nibble dry skin away! Slightly apprehensive guinea-pig Tracy Watkinson went to try it out: “I was certainly a bit nervous, having very ticklish feet anyway, but I was pleasantly surprised. After a thorough examination of my feet, I gently lowered them into the tank – I had to resist the urge to pull them straight out again, but after a few minutes it felt just like feathers tickling my feet. Afterwards they felt great, almost like walking on air as I went about the rest of my business around town. I would definitely have it done again, probably next time in the summer, when hard skin is more of a problem for me (during the flip flop season).”

Vive Life Care cosmetic procedures at the Woodland Hospital in Kettering The private Woodlands Hospital in Kettering offers an everincreasing range of surgical and non-surgical cosmetic procedures to improve appearance and well-being. There are five cosmetic surgeons based at the hospital who also support the non surgical treatments which include injectables for lines and wrinkles, chemical peels, microdermabrasion, thread vein removal and tattoo removal for blemish free skin. They can also boast an innovative laser hair removal treatment which uses the Soprano XL machine (the most technologically advanced on the market). It uses an in-motion technique to sweep up and down the area to be treated, greatly reducing the time needed for a successful treatment, one of the drawbacks of older style laser hair removal. Half a leg takes 30-45 mins and 6-12 treatments are recommended. The five surgeons also carry out a lot of complex surgical work including breast augmentations, rhinoplasty, liposuction, tummy tucks and intimate feminine surgery. If you are considering having any cosmetic procedures carried out, why not pop along to a forthcoming open day to find out more: 4th April and 11th May, 7pm start.

26

Avoid an indulgence of the calorie-laden kind this April and instead enjoy an Easter Treat spa day for two at Stapleford Park. The price of £170 includes a full body scrub (50mins) and a choice of either an OPI manicure or pedicure (70mins). This is followed by a delicious two course lunch in the hotel and full use of the facilities (not including classes or golf). The spa days are on sale from 1st April to 30th April 2011 and can be purchased as a voucher to use at a later date if required, but must be used by 31st December 2011.

Beauty treats for busy mums Quite often, it is a lack of time or money that prevents us from getting some much needed pampering. But Stamford based beauty therapist Michelle Humphrey offers waxing services, manicures, pedicures and eyelash tinting, all at very reasonable prices and at flexible hours to suit. Prices start from just £10 for a half leg wax and Michelle offers late appointments on a Tuesday and Thursday (until 9pm) and until 7pm on a Friday, ideal for ladies who work. Satisfied regular client Maxine Weeks told me: “I like going to Michelle because you feel much more relaxed and ‘special’ than in any of the salons; she does the best waxing I have ever had and she is happy to spend as long as it takes – there is always plenty of time without the rush of another person waiting.”

Directory Stapleford Park Country House Hotel, nr Melton Mowbray, LE14 2EF, Tel: 01572 787057, www.staplefordpark.com The Woodland Hospital, Ramsay Healthcare, Rothwell Road, Kettering, Northants, NN16 8XF, Tel: 01536 414515, www.woodlandhospital.co.uk The Little Therapy Centre, 9 High Street, Oakham, LE15 6AH, Tel: 01572 723650 Michelle Humphrey, Stamford, Tel: 07729 143487

RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING April 2011

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23B Mill Street, Oakham, LE15 6EA, Tel 01572 757577

Stockists of

• • • • • •

Stills Katherine Hooker MAC Jeans In Wear Bitte Kai Rand Extensive handbag, jewellery & Gift Range

New to Attic now stocks Petit Bateau clothing for women and children.

At Weekend you’ll find children’s clothes (2-10 years) including iconic stripe t-shirts and dresses along with fun check shirts, shorts and soft cotton trousers.

Beautifully designed

by Italians to be worn by you!

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

For ladies we have a small collection at Attic in Stamford of boatneck t-shirts, mariner jackets and the elegant dress shown here.

Attic: 33 St Mary’s St. PE9 2DS. T: 01780 766667 Attic Weekend: 43 St Paul’s St. PE9 2BH. T: 01780 766675 Attic Oakham: 38 High St. LE15 6AL. T: 01572 759000 www.atticfashion.co.uk

Something for everyone 27

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FASHION

spring fashion!

How to love

It’s almost ‘that’ time of year again – the time when we are forced to put away our boots, opaque tights and layers of woolly jumpers; banish black and grey, and turn instead to the lighter fabrics and brighter colours of Spring! Fear not, Vanessa Hollander has once again turned to some of our local shops to find inspiration

Jacks, Market Harborough This gorgeous bright red, polka dot dress is so easy to wear, looks immediately clean and fresh and is one of many to be found in this busy boutique. Team it with a lightweight trench coat, a blazer or a short, light cardigan for a variety of looks.

Dress, Jackpot, £74.95 Necklace, Passport, £25 Trench, Easy Comfort, £149 All at Jacks, Market Harborough

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Vanilla, Oakham Vanilla is packed with gorgeous, easy to wear Spring separates, dresses and accessories. This stunning dress from In Wear is both easy and comfortable to wear. Animal prints are still big news this Spring, as is navy, so this dress combines both. Simply put it on and go!

Dress, In Wear, £109.95 Necklace, £25.50 All at Vanilla, Oakham

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Cavells, Oakham This season is packed with pretty, bold prints.

Cavells’ outfit sharpens up this look with a chic and stunning leather jacket, and stylish peep toe shoe boots. This perfectly illustrates how you can take a pretty print and ‘funk’ it up!

Dress, Nougat, £175 Leather Jacket, Day Birger, £359 Bag, Mulberry Mini Alexa, £506 Peep Toe Shoe Boots, Vic, £155 All at Cavells, Oakham

Fords, Oakham Fords have just launched the Joules brand within their Oakham Store. This light and lovely tiered skirt is teamed with one of Joules’ classic polo shirts creating a young, fresh and stylish look. Wear these pieces together or separately into Spring and beyond!

Tiered Skirt, Joules, £59 Polo Shirt, Joules, £45 All at Fords of Oakham

Attic, Oakham Bright colours give any outfit a vibrant, youthful flair and are big news this Spring. This stylish turquoise dress by Almost Famous is perfect example of how to wear this trend. It can be worn casually over jeans or linen trousers for daytime or with heels for evening.

Dress, Almost Famous, £125 Jeans, Esprit, £45 Necklace, Nicola Hardy, £75 All at Attic, Oakham

PS! Couldn’t resist showing you these fabulous, floral and fun shoes from GorGeous in Market Harborough!

They are sure to put a ‘Spring’ in your step!!

Shoes, Irregular Choice, £60 GorGeous Shoes, Market Harborough

The Stock Room, Oakham The Stock Room is full of beautiful, sophisticated Spring outfits such as this one from Elisa Cavaletti. This stunning embellished dress is so feminine, and so easy to wear. It is perfect for a Spring wedding, party or any special occasion.

Dress, Elisa Cavaletti, £237 The Stock Room, Oakham

Stockists Jacks, Market Harborough, 01858 468 876 Fords of Oakham, 01572 722654, www.fordsofoakham.co.uk The Stock Room, Oakham, 01572 771069 Attic, Oakham, 01572 759000, www.atticfashion.co.uk

Vanilla, Oakham, 01572 757577 Cavells, Oakham, 01572 770372, www.cavells.co.uk GorGeous Shoes, Market Harborough, 01858 465118, www.gorgeous-online.com

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DESIGN INTERIORS

Kitchens:

Go Colour Crazy!

Colour is a crucial design element for kitchens as it plays such an important role in affecting moods. Catherine Batkin looks at the current trend for vibrant colours in the heart of the home BE BRAVE WITH COLOUR CHOICES: Graham from Kitchens by Nathaniel Oliver told me how he would recommend using colour in the kitchen: “All of our painted doors are manufactured from either European Oak or Ash. The most popular ‘safe’ colours are light shades such as ivory, sage, linen, stone and willow. I would use stronger colours, i.e: damson, charcoal and blues, as feature colours to create a particular design emphasis and they would usually be used on wall cabinets or a feature island. Of course now with the use of quartz for worktops a whole paint box of colours has been opened up from beautiful fushcia, lime green, strong blues and many more, giving us all the opportunity to be braver with our choices.”

Delmari Kitchens in Corby have a stunning range of Crown Imperial Kitchens in a multitude of high gloss colours.

Margaret Leake explained the current trends: “Our customers are certainly more open to the idea of coloured cabinets now than in the past; burgundy, plum and red all look great with high gloss black and we also have some superb metallic colours such as copper and gold which offer a really unique finish.”

PERFECT PASTELS You don’t have to go neon bright to make a statement; a few subtle pastel shades can make a big difference and work especially well in vintage-style and shabby chic kitchens.

With Theodore Ross you can create your dream kitchen, whether it’s ultra-contemporary or traditional rustic, hand painted or solid timber. Unlike most kitchen companies, the extensive workshops based at Langham in Rutland produce all of the handmade furniture from the finest materials available. The Shaker range lends itself particularly well to painted finishes and would look great in a classic pale blue, grey or green.

MADE TO MEASURE: Roger Kendrick has been in business for 35 years and makes tailor made kitchens at a height and size to suit his clients needs. Roger told me: “We can finish our kitchens in any colour the client wants and whilst creams and whites are still very popular, some people are now opting for stronger colours. An oil finish will be very hardwearing and is a great option for kitchens which get a lot of use; grubby finger marks can be cleaned off quite easily!” Roger also makes bespoke furniture such as welsh dressers and free standing units, so these can also be designed to colour match perfectly to your cabinets.

Mark Goodacre has been creating bespoke kitchens and handmade furniture for over 20 years. Based in the heart of Lincolnshire, he offers a complete service from kitchen design and building to fitting and finishing. As well as handcrafted kitchens, he can also fit an extensive range of

high quality ready-made kitchens in stunning contemporary curved designs (the Avant range), the streamlined Fresco collection and a cool stainless steel design which looks great with strong, vibrant wall colours.

Dream Doors in Market Harborough offer the ultimate facelift solution – by replacing just the cupboard doors and drawer fronts, you can save as much as 50-60% on a full kitchen re-fit, completely changing the look and feel of your kitchen, without the high price tag.

Clients are welcome to borrow doors so they can view them in situ before making any decisions and design plans are provided free of charge after a no obligation consultation.

ADD COLOUR ACCENTS: If you don’t fancy going too crazy with colour, achieve a more subtle finish by restricting the use of dramatic shades to accessories or accents.

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Directory:

SPLASHBACKS: QKS have supplied and installed kitchens for 30 years and have extensive showrooms in Stamford, offering clients some inspirational ideas. Gary told me how to inject a splash of colour without breaking the bank: “We have recently introduced painted glass splashbacks which are completely bespoke, made to a specific size and colour requirement. Your imagination is the only limit; lime green and bright reds are very popular at the moment and look stunning with white gloss cabinets.”

APPLIANCES: The Real Kitchen Company is a Partner of Neptune Kitchens and has an extensive showroom displaying both Neptune’s Chichester and Suffolk ranges. They are also stockists of Everhot, the authentic electric heat storage cooking range, which come in a number of traditional and contemporary colours. For a stunning focal point in your kitchen, choose the Everhot 150 which features four ovens, dual hotplates and resting plates. The striking

dark blue, green or burgundy colour options make a real statement when paired with neutral counters and cabinets.

TILES: Tiles are a great way to add a splash of colour without overdoing it – and you can have real fun with patterns and design. The Rutland Tile Gallery have loads of fantastic ideas including some stunning N&C London Glass Holographic Splashbacks which produce a shimmering effect on walls or floors. They complement the latest in contemporary kitchen furniture, and have the benefit of being ‘made to measure’ – particularly useful for wide cookers and Agas.

BLINDS: Finally, soft furnishings should be considered as part of the overall scheme, rather than an afterthought as they can bring the whole look together nicely. Countesthorpe Blinds offer made to measure blinds in a huge range of colours so you can mix and match to get the perfect combination for your kitchen.

WHAT DO THE COLOURS MEAN?

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RED: A fiery, passionate colour, red can quicken the pulse and breathing rate, as well as increase appetite.

YELLOW: especially soft yellow, can make people feel happier. When used as an accent colour, bright yellow can attract attention and brighten up a kitchen.

ORANGE: Energy, warmth and vibrancy – perfect for the room that is meant to be the heart of the home.

BLUE: A calming, peaceful colour that may work wonders for any hot-headed chefs!

GREEN: is reminiscent of nature and works particularly well in kitchens which open into an outdoor space.

Kitchens by Nathaniel Oliver, The Kitchen Showroom, Braunston Road, Oakham, LE15 8UH, Tel: 01572 722636, www.kitchensbynathanieloliver.co.uk Delmari Kitchens, Cockerell Road, Corby, NN17 5DU, Tel: 01536 206 325, www.delmari.co.uk Theodore Ross, 15 Gaol Street, Oakham, LE15 6AQ, Tel: 01572 755444, Mob: 07974 929506, www.theodoreross.co.uk Roger Kendrick Bespoke Joinery, Tel: 01536 400095, Mob: 07786 861211, www.rogerkendrickcarpentry.co.uk Mark Goodacre, Osgodby Farm, Osgodby, Grantham, Lincolnshire, NG33 4JH Tel: 01476 586159, www.markgoodacre.com Dream Doors, Market Harborough, 4 Adam and Eve Street, Market Harborough, LE16 7LT, Tel: 01858 419914, www.dreamdoorsltd.co.uk QKS, The Maltings, Barnack Road, Stamford, PE9 2NA, Tel: 01780 756514, www.qksstamford.co.uk The Real Kitchen Company, 29a High Street East, Uppingham, LE15 9PY, Tel: 01572 823187, www.realkitchencompany.co.uk Rutland Tile Gallery, 14 Midland Court, Station Approach, Oakham, LE15 6RA, Tel: 01572 722500, www.rutlandtilegallery.co.uk Countesthorpe Blinds, Tel: 0116 277 6749, Mob: 0771 833 7048, www.countesthorpe-blinds.co.uk

OTHER GOOD CONTACTS: Eleements – Kitchen installation experts offering services which include: design and planning, installation, joinery, plumbing, tiling and flooring. Tel: 01858 433852, Mob: 07904 858413, www.eleements.co.uk SJW Contracts – a Leicester based company who specialise in complete kitchen refurbishments including plastering, painting and tiling. Tel: 0116 251 6094, Mob: 07828 333 043 Rutland Shutters – Specialists in plantation shutters. Owner Steven Riordan told me: “Cream or white shutters work best if you have strong colours in your kitchen. They will reflect the most light into the room, making it seem brighter and more spacious.

They are also very easy to maintain and can be wiped clean; great for areas that may get smoky and greasy such as kitchens.”

Tel: 01664 474013, Mob: 07768 695236, www.rutlandshutters.co.uk Martins of Harborough – Large choice of traditional, contemporary and modern kitchen designs and a vast array of stylish feature units, internal fitments and accessories that will really complement your chosen kitchen. Tel: 01858 468683, www.martinsofharborough.co.uk Jeffrey Stone Designs – Kitchen Designers and Installers (also offering bedroom and bathroom design and installation).

Tel: 01780 762505, Mob: 07949 861753

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MOTORING

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

Dave Phillips reports

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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NENE VALLEY LIVING July 2008

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ART

Art in Lyddington Winners The celebrated ‘Art in Lyddington’ was a triumph this year with over 50 participating artists making this event one of the largest exhibitions in Rutland. Every year a large number of volunteers and support from local businesses make this much-admired event possible. Last year the event raised £1,706.57 towards the maintenances of the medieval church building in Lyddington

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his year the competition judges were Peter Jones, Mike Goldmark and Liz and Rowan Yorath who were so impressed by the standards that they added a new category.

Winners of the Judge’s Choice categories for 2 dimensional work was Scott Bridgwood with ‘Nude 13’ and for 3 dimensional work was Jan Burridge with her sculpture ‘Bird on Bird’.

Simon Sharp won the People’s Choice category with his painting of “Eyebrook Valley from Beaumont chase, Uppingham” Recently, the three winners exhibited for one week in the Victoria Hall Gallery in March. If you didn’t catch their work their logon on to their websites (below).

Art in Lyddington 2011 will be on Saturday 3rd and Sunday 4th December 2011 with the preview on the Friday 2nd December. The Friday preview will be opened by the High Sheriff of Rutland, Peter Lawson. Artists will need to register by September.

Judges Choice 2 dimensional Scott Bridgewood Nude 13

Scott Bridgwood www.scottbridgwood.daportfolio.com Scott Bridgwood graduated in Fine Art Painting in 1991. After exhibiting in London, he moved to Rome (Italy) for eight years, where he taught at the British Cultural Institute (BCI).

He is now based in Leicester and teaches Life Drawing and Portraiture at ‘Embrace Arts’ at the RA centre, Rawlins Community College and Gallery 3 in Oadby. He was also the 2010 Chairman of the Leicester Society of Artists. He has paintings in ‘The Lost Gallery’ Aberdeen, Westend Gallery Leicester and Gallery 22, Hale, Cheshire.

Scott explains, “The painted nude has always held a fascination for me. Nakedly vulnerable yet powerful in its natural state, the body is a ‘motif’ set in the interior or exterior spaces we inhabit. I wish my figures to be introspective and that the viewer empathises with them; it is for this reason that I often paint them life-size, or near life-size enabling the viewer to imagine themselves within the work. The human body is enormously complicated, yet immensely familiar. A great subject.

On the whole I paint for the love of painting. The human form and all that it signifies is simply my favourite reason to begin a painting.”

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Judges Choice 3 dimensional Jan Burridge Bird on Bird

Jan Burridge www.janburridge.co.uk Trained as a graphic designer at The London College of Communication, Jan spent her early career working for a leading London design partnership specialising in packaging. Now living and working in Rutland , Jan is a studio potter making functional ware and one-off sculptural ceramics using a variety of different stoneware, earthenware and porcelain clays.

Jan explains, “Through clay I have continued to explore nuances of shape and form, of surface, colour and texture - some of the seemingly endless possibilities that the material affords. I enjoy the disciplines and challenges of making both functional and decorative/ sculptural pieces.”

A selection of Jan’s work is currently available at The Lion Gallery, Lavenham, Suffolk, and also at Imagine Gallery, Long Melford.

Simon Sharp

People’s Choice Artist and Teacher at Uppingham Simon Sharp School www.simonsharp.viewbook.

Eyebrook Valley com Simon Sharp is married with three from Beaumont children and lives in Stamford. He is Chase, Uppingham currently the Head of Art and Director of the Leonardo Centre at Uppingham School, Rutland.

“My Landscape Paintings are the result of finding viewpoints that have a special relationship to their surroundings and the elements.Whether it is in Rutland, Italy or the Grand Canyon, I find myself drawn to views that have a special energy, dynamic and balance and often find that they have an ancient origin as iron-age hill forts, burial mounds or former temple sites.

The forms and patterns of fields and spaces have been “groomed” over many years of human interaction with nature. This is a rich tapestry that is constantly evolving, a heritage of features that are in a delicate balance with the contemporary world.

The careful and thoughtful eye can focus on this transient beauty, the secrets of which are revealed in the ever-changing effects of light, weather and seasons that bring the landscape to life.

After extensive walking and a process of getting familiar with the landscape, the paintings are usually completed “en plein air” and after repeated visits.

As such, they are more like poetic meditations rather than photographic images. In the creative experience of painting and drawing, the landscape reveals itself with an inspiring clarity. One can imagine that it was this sense of ‘Geosophy’, or spirit of place, that led to the siting of temples and churches in such special places!

This exhibition is a culmination of these works over the last year or two.”

Work for sale at 1 Castle Dyke, Stamford. Tel: 01780 751954 for an appointment.

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ACTIVITIES

W O O D L A N D WA L KS N o . 2

Morehay Woods, Southwick Morehay Woods, near Southwick, is a large, actively managed wood owned by the Forestry Commission and is a delight to walk through with a mix of trees, terrain, contours and a myriad of paths to wander down Distance: 5.5 miles Typical time: 1 3/4 hours OS map: Explorer (1:25 000) 224 or Landranger (1: 50 000) 141 (always walk with an OS map) Start & finish: Southwick Church

TOMLIN WOOD

5 MOREHAY LAWN

Terrain: Straightforward, good tracks all the way Stiles: None!

Dog friendly: Yes Getting there: 3 miles NE of Oundle Refreshments: The Shuckburgh Arms, Southwick, PE8 5BL. Tel: 01832 272044 serves great beer, great pub food, a log fire and has a delightful team. What more could you wish for? Open from 10am for breakfast/coffee

DIRECTIONS Park outside the church and take the footpath north out of the village, crossing a little stream and heading up between two fields until you reach the woods Take the path right at this point east, which then swings north and shortly crosses a bigger track. Stay on this path, past an old railway carriage (apparently a 1934 LMS brake van) and follow the track all the way to the northern edge of the wood.

Cross a footbridge and turn immediately left, following a wide field edge on the north side of the stream, until you reach a second footbridge at the second strip of trees.

At this point turn right (north) and walk up hill alongside a thin strip of wood which has a small pond at the top of it.

On reaching Tomlin Wood, turn sharply back along a metalled track that takes you back past Morehay Lawn and affords fine views of the surrounding countryside.

Shortly after you come back into the main woods three paths converge; turn left along a gravelled track signposted with a horseshoe on a wooden post; follow this track (ignoring all paths to the right), first on a

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gravelled surface and then after about a mile it leaves the main track and goes along a narrow path, re-joining a larger track again. It is marked with the horseshoe throughout. (do not stray down to Shire Hill Lodge).

Shortly after having re-joined the larger track, go past a fir tree wood on the left, at the end of which there is a footpath cutting across the track; take this to the right, up a wide grassy avenue (it says no horses, but the footpath sign is clearly indicated).

Follow this path, which takes a left at the end of a pine wood; it re-joins a gravelled track for a while (head straight, not right here), and then as the track bears left a footpath takes off to the right (south). This path takes you straight back to Southwick.

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Points of interest • Morehay Lawn Woods is notable for its 20 ancient oaks recorded by the Woodland Trust.

In Old English a ‘lawn’ refers to a clearing in woods that would have been used for pasture, so it is really describing the area just to the south of the existing wood.

• Southwick Hall was built around 1300 for Richard Knyvet, a prominent local wool

Morehay Lawn merchant. It is a blend of Elizabethan, Georgian and Victorian architecture. Only open on Bank Holidays and the preceding Sundays, so best to call 01832 274064 or check www.southwickhall. co.uk before you visit.

RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING April 2011

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2 Baldocks Lane, Melton Mowbray, Leicestershire LE13 1EN Telephone: 01664 501701 Mobile: 07836 245312 Email: rmorganelec@aol.com

12 Willoughby Road, Morcott, Rutland, LE15 9DY Tel: 01572 747318 Mobile: 07973843020 alison@alisonhutchinsondesign.co.uk www.alisonhutchinsondesign.co.uk

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PERSPECTIVES

Our Heroes

Amander Meade discovers how can we help the Derbyshire, Leicestershire and Rutland Air Ambulance

“T

he DLR crew are definitely my heroes; without them I don’t think I would be alive today.” Sara, Market Harborough.

This is just one of the many quotes from the hundreds of patients recued each year

by Derbyshire, Leicestershire & Rutland Air Ambulance (DLRAA). Twenty-one year old Sara was involved in a life threatening car accident and suffered multiple serious injuries. DLRAA flew to the scene, provided emergency care and quickly airlifted Sara to hospital. Sara has now made a good recovery and has recently graduated from University.

You may have seen the well loved yellow and grey helicopter flying above your head speeding its way to a mission or with a critically ill patient on board but many local people are not aware of what their air ambulance service does, how it is run or how it saves lives. Amander Meade spoke to Kit Edwards to find out more.

“DLRAA exists to provide a quick, intensive care to the people of Derbyshire, Leicestershire and Rutland when they need help the most.

The service routinely carries senior Doctors and Consultants to the scene of incidents in just minutes, providing lifesaving treatment and emergency medication at the scene and en-route to hospital. Essentially, this is taking the hospital to the patient, providing the best possible care and chance of a full recovery.”

Relying on your generosity Last year the crew attended over 1,000 incidents, provided critical care and airlifted over 1,300 people. Crews attend missions 365 days a year but currently only within daylight hours due to strict aviation laws and associated costs. In future, the teams would like to be able to fly at night as urgent medical care is needed twenty four hours a day, seven days a week. Kit explains, “Many people are surprised that as a registered charity, we receive no government or Lottery funding and the service relies solely on the generosity of the public to carry out its valuable work. The average cost per mission is around £1,000 and the basic annual running cost of the service is over £1.5 million.”

How you can help?

There are many ways in which you can help your Air Ambulance whatever your skills or interests and any support is much appreciated and really will help this vital service to keep on flying and saving lives. Here are just a few ideas...

Donate your time... There are all types of roles that need to be filled to keep the charity going.

Simply call 08454130988 or email enquiries@ dlraa.co.uk to find out if there is anything that you can do to help out.

Donate money.... Every donation helps, no matter how large or small. The easiest way to donate is through our website. Simply log onto www.dlraa.co.uk click the ‘make a donation’ button and we will guide you through the process.

Leave a legacy... Remembering us in your Will is really easy and leaving a legacy helps us plan for the future.

Join our lottery... Everyone is a winner with our Air Ambulance lottery; for just £1 per line per week, you can help keep us flying and saving lives whilst being in with a chance of scooping thousands to treat yourself. Call 0844 567 0844 or log onto www.dlraa.co.uk/lottery Attend events... We have a packed calendar of events, from climbing Kilimanjaro our Heroes Run to motorbike rides, golf days and business events to help raise funds. Log onto our website for updates.

Run your own event... Why not organise your own event? A coffee morning, a ball, a golf day or a sponsored event - the list is endless.

Whatever your activity our team are here to offer support. Log onto www.dlraa.co.uk for more information.

RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING April 2011

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GARDENING

...with Nick Hamilton Nick Hamilton Nick Hamilton caught the gardening bug aged 9, and went on to train at Writtle College in Essex. In 1989 he returned to Barnsdale where he worked with his father, Geoff, in the famous gardens which he had created for the BBC’s Gardeners’ World TV programme.

In 1996 Nick took over the running of Barnsdale Gardens and has developed the site into the inspirational garden that it is today - not only testament to a great man but also to Nick’s passion, foresight and hard work.

Barnsdale Gardens, The Avenue, Exton, Rutland LE15 8AH Tel: 01572 813200 www. barnsdalegardens. co.uk

Your Garden in April

In the second in our gardening series written by local gardening experts, we invited Nick Hamilton of Barnsdale Gardens to advise us on what to do in our gardens this Easter

W

ith so much in the garden bursting into life, April must be the most inspiring and exciting month of the year. Mind you, it is also a month when tasks in the garden also start to pile up, so admire for a bit and then get on!

GIVE THE GARDEN A HEALTH CHECK After such a devastating December now is a good time to be checking our borders to see what is alive and what succumbed to the very cold pre-Christmas blast. The strange thing is that it was not really any colder than the previous winter, which was the coldest for over 30 years. The problem with this winter, as opposed to the previous one, is that the viciously cold weather struck so early and before most of the plants in the garden had gone into full dormancy.

We have lost shrubs in the Gardens that came through last winter almost unharmed but were stone dead by the end of December! If the sap had not retreated sufficiently and the plant was therefore not in full dormancy then many nonindigenous plants are likely to have fallen foul of such low early temperatures. With shrubs and trees, however, the task of determining their state is very much easier as often it is easy to spot the withered shoots that are obviously dead and follow them back to a point as to which the plant looks healthier. Whether this is the case or not, I will always go through the same process when checking.

Starting as high up the branches of the tree or shrub as we feel necessary and, using a thumbnail, we just scrape away a very small section of bark to see if it is green or brown below. If it is green then joy of joys it is still alive and well, probably just a bit late coming into leaf. However, if it is brown beneath we work down the tree or shrub until we hit green and then cut back the dead growth into the live parts. The most devastating scenario is to reach soil level and it is still brown beneath the bark as this means only one thing – it is no more and should be dug out. This can devastating, particularly with lovingly nurtured or mature shrubs, but we always like to look on the positive, as it gives us the SOW OUTDOOR TOMATOES opportunity to try something different and Remember that outdoor tomatoes are not frost tolerant, so sowing too early is not a good idea as more exciting in its place. they will not be able to go outside when they are ready to. Now is the time to sow, although if you are using a cold greenhouse or coldframe with no heating they may need to be moved inside on colder nights.

PLANT POTATOES I like to get my 1st and 2nd earlies in around the end of March/early April and by selecting the right varieties I will be harvesting new potatoes out of the ground from the end of May. They need to go about 15cm (6”) deep at a spacing of 30cm (12”) apart. There are lots of varieties at the local garden centres, so I grow a few new varieties each year, dropping the ones without a decent flavour.

At the end of the day there is no point growing them unless they give you that stunning new potato flavour!

CUT BACK PENSTEMON Now is the time to cut back all of the upright varieties that are up to 90cm tall right back to this cluster of new shoots. Done annually, at the right time, this will reinvigorate the plants and therefore extend their life, as well as keeping the plants sturdy and upright. If the plants are not cut back they will still flower well but do tend to become top heavy and flop over, opening up the centre of the bush, which makes them look very untidy indeed.

PROTECT PEACHES Protect peach, nectarine and apricot blossom with fleece. They flower early which makes these flowers susceptible to late frosts. The easiest method is to drape some fleece over the trees until the risk of frost has passed.

LAWN CARE If you managed not to do any work on your lawn in the autumn, the second half of this month is the time to give it some attention. A lawn will require three treatments, scarifying, aerating and feeding.

The final job of feeding is very important, to get the grass growing again.

8 NENE 44 RUTLAND VALLEY & MARKET LIVING July HARBOROUGH 2008 LIVING April 2011

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James Brewer Gardens

Your garden is there to be enjoyed, sit in, entertain in, play, relax and use as another room of your home. Designing your garden to best suit your requirements needn't be a daunting task.

I have over 15 years experience in designing contemporary and traditional gardens to suit all budgets. All my projects receive the same passion, professionalism and attention to detail no matter what the size.

Tel: 01858 464194 Mob: 07775 614676 www.jamesbrewergardens.co.uk

KEN RAWSON

GARDEN DESIGNS BACK TO BASICS Today’s garden design can be too much of everything

Sometimes the simplest is best Ring 01780 481624 to see why www.kenrawsongardendesigns.co.uk

Easton-on-the-Hill, Stamford. Established 1986

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MOTORING

How to buy a ‘pre-owned’ car Buying a car is generally reckoned to be the second most expensive item a person will acquire after their home. Ashley Martin looks at a way of making it easier

H

elp is now at hand - at least for used car buyers – as Peterborough-based Outside Lane has appointed ‘personal shoppers’ to locate and buy vehicles that meet clients’ exact requirements.

The added bonus of the used car concierge service is that, according to the company, significant savings are promised when compared with prices at dealers and car supermarkets.

Industry research suggests that when acquiring a used car, choice and price are among the key requirements for consumers.

That’s not a problem to Outside Lane as its car buying team will scour the country to find the ‘right’ vehicle to meet the description and budget provided by private buyers and businesses.

Outside Lane is an internet-based vehicle sourcing business launched in 2009 with a car buying team that has more than 20 years experience and has purchased more than £900 million worth of vehicles to order.

An increasing number of car buyers are expected to source vehicles online in the future with a recent report by global consulting, technology and outsourcing specialists CapGemini suggesting that 20% of consumers were “likely” or “very likely” to purchase a car online, which was up from just 2% in 2001.

But, Outside Lane says that many car buyers are already reaping the benefits of online buying having read online reviews of models, located a trusted outlet to source a car at the best price and then been happy to conduct a secure financial transaction over the internet, just as many people currently do with other financial products and holidays.

Steve Myers, Managing Director of the independent car buying service, said: “We will appoint a ‘personal shopper’ to search the country and locate each prospective client’s required used vehicle to their exact specification and budget.

“We will then inspect, appraise, acquire, prepare the vehicle to showroom condition, deliver and then personally hand over the vehicle to the customer at their location of choice. Choice and price are typically among the key issues for car buyers and Outside Lane delivers on both counts.”

To ensure customer satisfaction, Outside Lane has developed its own ‘used car qualification’ - a 146-point check on the vehicle’s bodywork, mechanics and previous history.

Mr Myers added: “The majority of the cars purchased on behalf of clients are at trade prices. We then pass the savings on to our customers.”

Outside Lane’s service is charged on a tiered structure linked to the price of a car. For a vehicle costing up to £8,000 the fee is £600

Steve Myers with Lorraine Bishop

P

eterborough nurse Lorraine Bishop bought a Renault Clio 1.4 Dynamique through Outside Lane late last year.

Mrs Bishop said: “Like a lot of people I find that going into a car dealership or car supermarket can be quite intimidating. I knew the type of car I wanted and I knew what my budget was. I was therefore delighted when a family member told me about Outside Lane.

“I have better things to do with my time that trail around garages to find the right car and I’m always wary of buying privately. Therefore, Outside Lane seemed the perfect option. The service offered, plus the fact that I could refuse the vehicle and had the right to have my money back if it did not meet my exact requirements gave me the confidence to buy through the company.”

• Further information at www.outsidelane.co.uk and/or 0845 519 2584

Current typical car costs and savings that clients can expect are:

Renault Clio 1.2 Expression Hatchback BMW 530d SE step-auto

Outside Lane

£5,050 £20,950

Average saving (including Outside Lane fee)

+ VAT; for a £8,000-£20,000 car the fee rises to £850 + VAT; on a vehicle costing £20,000£40,000 the fee rises to £1,200 + VAT; and on a car costing more than £40,000 a £2,000 + VAT fee is charged.

Outside Lane says its clients include senior business executives, professional sportsmen and women, city bankers, business owners as well as private individuals. Counted among customers is ex-England rugby union international and 2003 World Cup winner turned ice skater Kyran Bracken, who won

Car supermarket

£5,250 £21,200

Saving to Supermarket £200 £250

Main dealer £5,400 £21,294

Saving to main dealer £350 £344

£225

£347

ITV’s Dancing on Ice show in 2007. Outside Lane also purchases fleets of cars on behalf of businesses.

Mr Myers concluded: “The business and personal pressures on many of our typical customers means they are increasingly time poor. With no up-front finder’s fee and built-in customer satisfaction guarantees we believe that the method of internet buying that we are providing is cost-effective and takes the hassle out of what can be a huge chore with none of the risk associated with a private sale.”

RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING April 2011

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Rutland Shutters Made to measure Window Shutters

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TITILLATIONS

Colin Firth or Lionel Logue…

Who is the real hero behind the King’s speech? Caroline Aston investigates

W

ell, by the time you read this an Oscar will be gleaming on Mr Colin Firth’s mantelpiece…and a very well deserved one it will be too!

Mind you, I will admit to a degree of partiality here: like virtually every other person of a female persuasion, I have been watching his career with great interest ever since he plunged into a lake wearing a see-through shirt back in those far off ‘Pride and Prejudice’ days when he played snooty Mr Darcy. And who can forget the l-o-n-g smooch he enjoyed with Rene Zellweger at the end of ‘Bridget Jones Diary’ eh?

It’s quite a long step from that snowy London street scene to a foggy Wembley Stadium in 1925 which first .is where we first encounter Mr Firth in his award-winning portrayal of the stammering future King George VI. ‘The King’s Speech’ has had so many accolades bestowed that it’s almost embarrassing but, I have to say, for me the outstanding character is Lionel Logue, the Australian speech therapist who sorted out that dreadful stutter and who is played in the film by actor Geoffrey Rush. Even more intriguing is the fact that Lionel Logue’s grandchildren, Alex Marshall and Robert Logue, are Rutlanders and both attended the film’s premiere. Alex runs a high class catering business based in Langham. She has been quoted as saying that Rush’s portrayal of her grandfather was mesmerising, although she found the movie ‘quite frightening’ to begin with. Her brother Robert points out that the film is

not entirely factual: Lionel Logue certainly never addressed the future king as ‘Bertie’ or swore in front of him. However, the very real friendship that developed between therapist and patient is spot on and, Robert says, this intimacy was not always appreciated by the Royal Family. Alex and Robert describe their grandfather as ‘kindly’ but not ‘lovey-dovey’.

Each Christmas the two would travel to London to spend Christmas with their grandparents, Lionel and Myrtle. Christmas lunch would be deferred until Lionel Logue returned from Buckingham Palace where he sat by the King as the monarch faced the annual ordeal of the Christmas broadcast. Alex says that she understood that her grandfather was important but they didn’t really talk about it.

Of course, both George VI and his brother the glamorous (and abdicating!) Edward VIII were no strangers to our little county. Both of them presented horseshoes to the Oakham Castle collection in 1921 and, in fact, George VI is the only example of a duplicator in so far as he gave another shoe during a wartime visit in 1944. What a much-loved leader he was during those dark days: who can ever forget those iconic images of him visiting the bomb-shattered East End of London with Queen Elizabeth in platform-soled peeptoes standing at his side? Thanks to Lionel Logue he clearly spoke his words of encouragement to people and nation – and how very proud his Rutland grandchildren must be of his memory.

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BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND

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WHAT’S ON

Diary dates

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

April

Sunday 3 April, 9am-5pm EVENT: Mother’s Day at Barnsdale Gardens Treat Mum to a wonderful day out at Barnsdale’s famous and beautiful gardens. With hundreds of bright spring blooms, the scent of flowering shrubs and friendly tearoom serving luscious clotted cream teas.

Mums (if accompanied by children) visit free.

• Admission £6.50/£5.50, children £2.50, families (up to 5) £16.

Other courses and events at Barnsdale this month include Pruning Shrubs, Composting, Watercolour Painting, Vegetables All Year Round and Planting Design. Call 01572 813200 or visit www. barnsdalegardens.co.uk for further details.

Friday 8 April ( and subsequent second Fridays of the month) 10am to 2pm EVENT: Honey Pot Crafts Markets Unique products and gifts from local artists, crafters and traders including Jewellery, Accessories, Handbags, Wood Craft, Textiles and Home Crafts.

• Uppingham St Peter and Paul Parish Church Free admission, information Tel: 01536 771874

Saturday 16 April, 7.30pm MUSIC: The Meryon Trio In the first concert of the season and playing pieces

by Beethoven, Bruch and Brahms, Lyddington enjoys a return visit by Angus Meryon and Jitka Vlasankova and extends a first time welcome to the pianist Richard Saxel.

• St Andrew’s Church, Lyddington Tickets £12 (students £2) from various outlets – www.musicinlyddington.co.uk

Monday 25 to Saturday 30 April THEATRE: Calendar Girls A group of ordinary women do something extraordinary and spark a global phenomenon when they persuade one another to pose for a charity calendar with a difference. Based on an inspiring true story, Calendar Girls is quirky, poignant and hilarious. Cast members will include Lesley Joseph, Sue Holderness, Ruth Madoc, Kacey Ainsworth and Camilla Dallerup.

• De Montfort Hall, Leicester Tickets from £15 Tel: 0116 233 3111 www.demontforthall.co.uk

Film lovers take note….

Catmose Films will be shown temporarily at the Rutland County Museum during April and May. Films during this period include ‘Lourdes’ (U), ‘Chico and Rita’ (15), and ‘Another Year’ (12A). Admission £3-£5, Box Office and enquiries Tel: 01572 725904.

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EVENT: Open Studios Artists Fayre Featuring artists from the Harborough Artists Cluster as well as other artists, designers and makers in the region showing paintings, sculptures, textile, jewellery and craft stalls. Barton Hall Studios, near Kettering

11 to  Monday Saturday 16

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Saturday 9 and Sunday 10 April

THEATRE: Spamalot Written by Monty Python’s Eric Idle and John DuPrez, Spamalot tells the legendary tale of King Arthur and the knights of the Round Table and features a bevy of beautiful show girls, witch burnings not to mention cows, killer rabbits and French people.

• Tickets from £24.50 Tel: 0116 2333111 or www.demontforthall.co.uk

Tuesday 26 April, 7.30pm

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EVENT: Talk by Peter Llewellyn The Rutland Branch of the Hardy Plant Society meet each month and April’s topic will be ‘Wild Orchids of Great Britain’. Everyone welcome.

• Uppingham Church of England Primary School, Belgrave Road Admission £3 including light refreshments

Thursday 28 April, 7.30pm LECTURE: Euthanasia – A Good Death?

The speaker is Dr Rhona Knight, a GP with a special interest in medical ethics.

• Oakham Methodist Church Further information Tel: 01572 722282 www.rutlandtheologicalsociety.co.uk RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING April 2011

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WHAT’S ON

On the trail of the Easter Bunny…

At Barnsdale Gardens – trails for children to follow and an egg hunt every day from Good Friday to Easter Monday. Special tokens are hidden all around the gardens, just find one and collect your Easter egg.

• Garden Admission applies, Tel: 01572 813200 or visit www. barnsdalegardens.co.uk for further details.

At Belton House – On Saturday 23 and Sunday 24 April, 10.30am to 4pm there will be a Family Easter Trail in the garden plus Mini Chick Trail for the tinies (pushchair friendly). Prizes for all junior participants and craft activities in the Discovery Centre.

At Burghley House – Join the team on Easter Sunday for a hunt which will take children on a trail around the Sculpture Garden and the Garden of Surprises concluding in the collection of a proper size Easter egg.

• Admission included on purchase of a House and Gardens or Gardens only ticket. www.burghley.co.uk At Boughton House – Family fun on Wednesday 20 April between 11am and 2pm.

Games and a trail around the beautiful gardens of Boughton House.

• Children £5 with accompanying adults free. Eggs for all children taking part. www. boughtonhouse.org.uk At Rockingham Castle - Wonderful family fun for the Easter Weekend from 12noon to 5pm. Children’s Easter Egg Hunt and family quiz. • Event and Castle admission £23 for a family ticket. Information www.rockinghamcastle.com

Fun at Easter at Uppingham School

Renowned professional cricketers will once again offer coaching weeks for boys and girls from 7-14 years old. Tennis Coaching with James Muir takes place on the brand new Uppingham School Sports Centre tennis courts in group 2 hour sessions for 7-10 and 11-14 year olds. England U18 XV rugby coach Paul Westgate will run three days of rugby for 7-10 year olds, teaching young players all the basic skills of the game. Creative children from 6-11 years will enjoy Arts and Crafts Fun Days including a Clown Workshop day and three days of Easter Cookery for Kids. Courses for adults include - a series of Drawing Master classes, Champagne Tasting and Upholstery.

• For further information please call Uppingham Summer School on Tel: 01572 820800 or visit www.uppinghamsummerschool.co.uk.

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Sunday 1 May, from 9am

Join the WaterAid Water’s Walk Join the walk from Eyebrook Reservoir to Rutland Water in aid of WaterAid. Choose between a 12 mile or a 5 mile option along footpaths and quiet roads ending at the shores of Rutland Water. Free refreshments, parking and a shuttle bus to take you to the start. The local WaterAid group has raised over £85,000 in the last five years to help provide clean water and safe sanitation to some of the poorest communities in Africa. This year the group hope to raise over £6,000 from the Waters Walk.

• For further information on the walk including maps and sponsor forms contact Charlotte Baker Tel: 01572 787282 or e-mail wateraidrutland@yahoo.co.uk

RUTLAND & MARKET HARBOROUGH LIVING April 2011

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LE2 3FL

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ALISON HUTCHINSON

Shepherding Local designer Alison Hutchinson meets the team that is shepherding the flock at Red Hill Farm, Barrowden, Rutland, during lambing

F

arming at Red Hill Farm is a serious business; it’s a mixed farm of livestock and arable and has been a family farm for at least the last three generations. They have 2,000 ewes in lamb and 2,500 acres of arable land.

The mixed nature of the farm works best for Red Hill Farm and has come about because of the type of land they have: the grassland needs to have a use and sheep suit it well. Richard Tyler, one of the farm owners has known sheep on the farm since he was a boy and shepherd Jamie Wild, has been looking after them here in Rutland for 16 years.

With this many sheep you could be forgiven for thinking that Spring lambing is hard work and not really like living the good life at all - but I come back to the big question I’ve been asking all my interviewees: if you didn’t do this what would you do? Confronted with this question Jamie is lost for words. “I don’t know what I’d do if not this, I’m happy with the lifestyle and I certainly don’t do it for the £1m bonus,” he

laughed. “I do a lot of everything and we hire in to help at lambing but working with the dogs is my favourite part of the job,” he explained.

Jamie went to Brooksby College and found he preferred stock to other aspects of farming so worked on sheep farms in Australia and New Zealand before returning to the UK and settling in Morcott.

With 2,000 ewes to lamb over the next three weeks he certainly has his work cut out but seems to have a very well organised system.

The ewes are served by the Tup in autumn and marked so Jamie knows exactly when they will lamb. “Gestation for a sheep is 21 weeks or 147 days and they pretty much stick to this schedule. We bring them into the barns in the groups in which they were served by the Tup so we know each group will lamb at almost the same time. Once they’ve lambed they are put in pens on their own so they can bond with their lambs for a day or two before going into a small group so they can all socialise,” Jamie

explained. “At this stage they are learning to understand who their mother is amongst the small group before moving to a larger group and going out into the field.”

So could anyone keep a few sheep I asked?

Not if you want to make any money was the unanimous reply. “It’s hard work making a living with 2,000 sheep and a few years ago it would have been costing us money to keep sheep but the market has improved,” Jamie explained. For a small holder with a bit of grass to keep short having a few sheep is good fun and I can vouch for how rewarding lambing is. While I was at the farm I helped a lamb to be born and it was a magical experience. Farms hire in for lambing so if you have three weeks to spare and fancy getting your hands dirty this is one of the best ways of learning how to keep sheep. “Coming to work with us over lambing is a fast learning curve but if someone wanted to keep a few sheep of their own it would certainly be a fast way of learning how to do it,” Jamie said.

8 NENE 54 RUTLAND VALLEY & MARKET LIVING July HARBOROUGH 2008 LIVING April 2011

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M A K E

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WEEKEND

Shop for longer this Easter.

Good Friday: 9am – 5.30pm*

Easter Sunday: Closed

Easter Saturday: 9am – 6pm*

Easter Monday: 10am – 5.30pm*

Plan your visit at

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

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PRNE IC W E

CHARTERED SURVEYORS, ESTATE AGENTS & LAND AGENTS

Edmondthorpe

Egleton A beautifully presented detached stone built property located in the heart of this premium Rutland village, close to Rutland Water, offering good sized family accommodation and standing in gardens and grounds of approximately 0.25 acres.

A beautiful substantial country home standing in the gardens and grounds of approximately 1 acre and comprising a principal house, a three bedroom cottage and separate converted Coach House with 3 apartments.

A be in th Wate in ga

• 3 Reception Rooms • 4 Bedrooms • En Suite, Family Bathroom • Approx. 0.25 Acres

• Beautiful Interiors • 4 Bedrooms (2 En Suite) • Three Bedroom Cottage, 3 One Bedroom Apartments

•3R •4B • En • Ap

• 4 Reception Rooms • Delightful Grounds of approx.1 acre • Asking Price £975,000

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EW

Gardens and Grounds • Double Garage, Ample Off Road Parking • Asking Price £ 650,000

Greetham

Uppingham

• Pool, Outbuildings, Ample Garaging

• 5 Reception Rooms

• Guide Price £1,750,000

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Langham

• Garage with Guest Flat

• 4 Reception Rooms

• Lovely Enclosed Gardens

• 4 Bedrooms (2 En Suite)

• Asking Price £595,000

• Shortland Crafts Renovation • 3 Reception Rooms • Bespoke Breakfast Kitchen • 4 Bedrooms

• En Suite, Shower Room, Family Bathroom

• Far

• Asking Price £489,000

•5R

Empingham

A beautifully presented individually constructed detached property combining traditional craftsmanship and materials with modern stylish living, situated in a secluded location on the edge of this sought after Rutland village.

• Family Home Built in 2004

A su an e of g view

• Ap

P NE

• 5 Bedrooms, 6 Shower/Bathrooms

• Approx. 28 acres of Paddocks

PRNE IC W E

• Farmhouse in Stunning Rural Location

A superbly refurbished period townhouse with double bay frontage, built from ironstone under a Collyweston slate roof, providing a tastefully appointed and well proportioned accommodation of considerable charm and character.

PRNE IC W E

A substantial, presented to a high standard throughout farmhouse located in an enviable rural location with the house set within approximately 28.0 acres of grass paddocks, all within a ring fence, enjoying far reaching southerly views over open countryside.

Caldecott

A beautifully presented character barn conversion situated on the edge of the village offering good size accommodation with a first floor galleried drawing room and full length glass panelled window to the rear elevation. The property enjoys nice countryside views to the front elevation and a private rear garden.

A sympathetically upgraded period stone house with a wealth of charm and character. Approached along tree-lined driveway, this Grade II listed house provides accommodation spread over three floors and incorporates many features such as original timbers, high ceilings, stone mullioned windows and a priest hole.

• 3 Reception Rooms, Kitchen / Diner • Detached Double Garage • 2 ground floor Bedrooms • Gardens & Grounds • 2 first floor Bedrooms • Price on application

• Drawing room & Dining room • 1st floor: 2 Bedrooms & Bathroom • Breakfast kitchen with pantry • 2nd floor: 2 Bedrooms • Separate annexe with office • Guide Price £497,000

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w w w. m u r r a y. c o . u k OAKHAM

01572 755555

STAMFORD

01780 766604

UPPINGHAM

01572 822587

PARK LANE, LONDON 020 7079 1505

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