Stamford Living April 2015

Loving where we live!

STAMFORD LIVING www.stamfordliving.co.uk

@LocalLivingUK

Featuring: Easter Ideas Mono Fashion Health & Beauty Kids Entertainment Stamford News Teapots Gardening QKS Home Motoring Summer Festivals Sacrewell Farm Wedding Planning Westgate Shopping Stamford Activities Local Art Places to Eat Urban Walk Events Guide Stamford People

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ROMAN BANK, STAMFORD - £495,000

Situated on a desirable road this established detached four bedroom home offers family sized accommodation with generous gardens and ample off road parking. The property benefits from being within easy reach of the town centre and A1 alike. The accommodation comprises in brief; Entrance hall, cloakroom, lounge, dining room, conservatory and kitchen. Upstairs the landing leads to four bedrooms and a family bathroom. Outside the property is set back from the road behind a fenced front garden with flower borders and there is a driveway to the side of the property with car port. The rear garden backs onto the Empingham Road allotments and boasts a large lawn, fruit trees and vegetable patch. The property may benefit from some updating to suit a more modern living style.

WEST DEEPING

£765,000

This beautifully presented barn conversion, converted in 1997 to a high standard, is set within private mature gardens of approximately 0.28 of an acre with views over countryside and St. Andrews Church. The property is approached by a long gravelled gated drive with accommodation comprising: Ground floor: Reception hall, light drawing room with wood burner, bespoke kitchen dining room with integrated appliances and Aga, study/bedroom five, shower room, cloakroom, laundry room and side entrance hall. First floor: Main landing leading to a minstrel galleried landing, master bedroom with en-suite and three further bedrooms. Outside there is a detached garage with large workshop to the rear and room above. This could easily be made into a self-contained office or annexe, subject to planning.

COLSTERWORTH - £430,000 GUIDE PRICE

A superb blend of modern contemporary living set within a beautiful home of quality and character, this Georgian style property is situated in the small community of Colsterworth benefitting from a village shop and local pub with the market towns of Stamford and Grantham in easy reach. Updated and improved Grade II listed detached country house with large mature grounds with potential for further accommodation. The generous accommodation is spread over four floors and comprises the following; Entrance hall, lounge, dining room and refitted bespoke breakfast kitchen with a rear stairwell leading up to the first floor. From the main hall there are both steps down to the cellar which has a vaulted ceiling and good height clearance (approx 6’3”) and the main staircase up to the first floor landing accessing two double bedrooms, the family bathroom and additional separate WC. The main stairwell carries on up to the second floor where there are two further double bedrooms, both first and second floor landings are spacious enough to accommodate seating.

Outside the property overlooks landscaped grounds to the rear with a courtyard to the side of the house. There are also two garages and two outbuildings, one has previously served as a shop and benefits from having electricity connected and WC and wash basin, it also has a new roof. There is also an option to purchase a parcel of land adjoining the property with access to the High Street and the option for further residential potential.

TICKENCOTE

£347,000

This pretty semi-detached stone cottage is approached by a double driveway and is set in the heart of this sought after village overlooking the Church and only a short drive to Stamford, the A1 and local amenities. The property has been much improved in recent years and enjoys the benefit of a re-fitted kitchen breakfast room and a self-contained annexe. Accommodation comprises: Covered entrance lobby, entrance hall, cloakroom, sitting room with open fireplace, dining room, kitchen breakfast room overlooking the rear garden. To the first floor there are three bedrooms and a family bathroom. The annexe consists of a large open plan studio with kitchen area, bathroom and cloakroom. Outside, there are enclosed and well maintained gardens to the front and rear and a larger than average garage.

Call us now for more information

3 Red Lion Street, Stamford PE9 1PA

01780 765060

email: mailroom@knightpartnership.com

www.knightpartnership.com

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STAMFORD LIVING

April Contents www.stamfordliving.co.uk

@LocalLivingUK

UPDATES, SHOPPING

21 Updates: Wellies Café at the Rutland Water

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Keeping our public footpaths open and accessible

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W

E have so many beautiful public footpaths in our region, but we need to be ever vigilant that they are kept open, properly signed and reasonably maintained.

Local authority cutbacks means that less money is available to support public footpaths, so the onus is increasingly on us to report problems. This is easily done.

Just feed “Report a Rights of Way Problem Lincolnshire County Council” or “Report a Rights of Way Problem Rutland County Council” (or any other council area you are in) into Google and you will find an online form to fill in.

Enjoy your Easter break walking – if the weather is good, it’s the loveliest time of the year to be in the countryside.

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Nicholas Rudd-Jones

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Publisher

Editor Nicholas Rudd-Jones 01780 765571 nicholas@bestlocalliving.co.uk Write to Stamford Living, PO Box 208, Stamford, PE9 9FY www.bestlocallivingliving.co.uk Advertisement Manager Claudia Bayley 01778 425502 claudia.bayley@btinternet.com Advertisement Director Helen Walton 01780 754801 helen.stamford@btopenworld.com Advertising Copy Rachel Beecroft 01780 765320 rachel@locallivingdesign.co.uk Head of Design Steven Handley steve@locallivingdesign.co.uk Senior Designer Nik Ellis nik@locallivingdesign.co.uk Publisher Nicholas Rudd-Jones 01780 765571 nicholas@bestlocalliving.co.uk Published by Local Living Ltd, PO Box 208, Stamford, Lincs. PE9 9FY nicholas@bestlocalliving.co.uk Printed by Warners of Bourne Cover Picture: Sally Anne Fitter Roses, daisies & Three Pears Sally Anne Fitter & Celia Wilkinson Still life and Landscape Exhibition at the Robert Fogell Gallery, St Martin’s, Stamford - Saturday 11th April until Sunday 3rd May www.robfogell.co.uk Loving where we live!

STAMFORD LIVING www.stamfordliving.co.uk

@LocalLivingUK

• We gave the wrong contact details for Christine Brown, Styling Coach, last month. They should be: Tel: 01780 766341 Mob: 07833 343512 christine_brown1@btconnect.com

Featuring:

Mother’s Day Gift Ideas Spring into Summer Fashion Hair & Beauty Kids Entertainment Stamford News Local Property Ask Leo Motoring Great Local Food & Drink Literature Local Music and Art

Country Walk Events Guide Stamford People

Garden Centre, 24th Charity Craft Dabble Day, The Loomes Everest attempt…the journey begins! The Rutland Optimists Updates: Charles & Dean, finance brokers; Pots of Fun at Love Stamford; Healthy Hearing opens in Oakham Shopping: The Westgate Arcade independents in Peterborough Updates: Silhouette Soft Non-Surgical Facelift, Armor Shutters & Manor Windows, The National Motorhome Show 2015, Grab an oar for Thorpe Hall Hospice Updates: 2015 Rat Race Dirty Weekend: calling all sports fans! Building for the future with Stamford Town Cricket Club, Stamford AFC Football Development Centre, Easter Excitement at Uppingham Summer School

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY 8 Fashion: Fifty Shades of Grey 12 Health & Beauty: The best skincare – whatever your age

44 Wedding Planning with Serenity Weddings

HOME, GARDEN, MOTORING, TRAVEL Design Inspirations: terrific teapots Bringing your Garden to Life QKS’s new Orangery UPP Property Rentals Motoring: Buying a second-hand car

FOOD & DRINK

28 60

4 Easter Treats ideas!

58 Food & Drink: The Great Food Club 60 63 65 67

Food awards Eating Out: No. 3 The Yard Eating Out: The Wicked Witch Eating Out: The Mad Turk story Food & Drink: Olive Branch recipe

ACTIVITIES, CULTURE, LEARNING & BUSINESS

16 Child-friendly Stamford: What’s On 17 Child-friendly Stamford: Second to None stuff for kids

40 Music: Round-up of Summer Music Festivals

42 Out & About: Sacrewell Farm 57 Arts & Artists: Caroline Austin. Concept Pop-up art Show, Exclusive Snow Designs

60 Book review: The Stones of Stamford 70 Urban Ramble: Leicester City Centre 75 What’s On

PEOPLE & PLACES

69 Ask Leo Special: The Magna Carta and its link to Stamford

78 Stamford People: Ehsan Hussein, Stamford Pharmacy

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FOOD & DRINK

Easter...

A time to indulge in all things chocolate!

By Deborah Pennell

A

FANTASTIC excuse to eat your bodyweight in chocolate, get baking and even try your hand at making and decorating an egg in the Fabergé style! Well I tried, with help from my lovely friend Tiffany Gwinnett, my local chocolate hero. She did the difficult bit of tempering the chocolate, filling the mould and removing it and I had the fun task of sticking on hundreds of pearlised sugar balls and some very delicate gold leaf! I think our little egg could pass as an original?!

As a confirmed chocoholic I thought it would be interesting to find out more about my beloved treat by asking a few simple questions.

The answers reveal a fascinating and labour intensive journey from tree to chocolate with some wonderfully named processes such as winnowing, conching and tempering!...

How does the quality of chocolate vary?

Chocolate varies dramatically in quality. From the hugely sickly to the higher quality 70%100% bitter dark chocolate for the more discerning chocolate lover.

Good quality chocolate will only have cocoa butter in it. In simple terms, the more cocoa butter in the chocolate, the better quality the chocolate.

A simple process of adding vegetable oil is used to reduce the quality of chocolate by reducing the cocoa butter level and lot and lots of sugar is added too!

So what do our compatriots around the globe enjoy at Easter? Well in The States you are sure to be consuming peanut butter filled eggs; Italy, candy-coated gianduja eggs; in Sweden papier-mâché eggs stuffed full with licorice, sweet and sour gummy sweets; and in Belgium my number one favorite, the gorgeous hazelnut praline!

As one of the most popular foods out there, chocolate is found in so many recipes too. From deliciously gooey chocolate brownies to dark chocolate sorbet and also grated into a chilli con carne or used in authentic Mexican sauces such as Mole pablano. How versatile it is!

For those with lacto, gluten or egg intolerance or perhaps just choosing a vegan diet, don’t despair; eggs and chocolates to suit everyone can be found locally in the health food shops and some of the high end supermarkets.

What processing is required? What is Fairtrade?

Where does our chocolate come from?

Chocolate is made from cocoa beans, the dried and partially fermented seeds of the cacao tree (Theobroma cacao). The Cacao Tree is one of the oldest cultivated plants, first discovered by the Aztecs and Mayans in the Amazon basin, South America.

Cocoa is now the world’s third most traded agricultural product after sugar and coffee.

Harvested, twice a year, from November to January and May to July, the cocoa beans go through 7 processes before they are ready for us to enjoy as chocolate!

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The handpicked pods have their seeds removed before the first stage in its journey to become chocolate: • Fermentation – the seeds are laid in fermentation boxes for 5 days during which time the beans become brown and heat up which means they need to be stirred and the flavour starts to develop.

• Drying – the beans are now spread out in the sun to dry as they still contain too much moisture to turn them into chocolate. This process can take up to 14 days.

• Roasting – the beans are roasted which sterilises them and enhances their flavour.

• Winnowing – this process is the removal of the outer shell of the beans which leaves the ‘nib’.

• Grinding – the nibs are ground and a liquid mass called cocoa liquor is produced.

• Conching – the cocoa mass is mixed continuously at a certain temperature to develop flavour, remove moisture and break down large pieces.

• Tempering - the final process! Chocolate is slowly heated and cooled allowing the cocoa mass to solidify and stabilise.

And there we have it! Including harvesting, 8 processes, some hugely labour intensive, over an approximate 21 day period and our beloved pure chocolate is produced!

Ideally we would all buy Fairtrade products. The farmer is paid a Fairtrade minimum price and secondly an additional Fairtrade premium to invest in business or community projects. A great way to support the cocoa growers for generations to come.

Local stockists of Artisan and 70% plus chocolate and all things foodie for Easter include: Silver Lane Foods - Montezumas, Moo free, Booja booja, Willies Cacao to name but a few. Easter eggs for all intolerances can be ordered through the shop.

Café au Chocolat - Valhrona and Artisan chocolate bars and chocolates. They also do a fantastic variety of hot chocolates like the delicious Chilli con choccy which is made with 70% cocoa, chilli, cinnamon, nutmeg and cloves or the White chocolate with red and white peppercorns. Milkshakes and sweet and savoury crepes too! Gluten free is available.

The Stamford Delicatessen in the High Street has the most irresistible selection of good quality brownies.

Holland & Barrett also have a good selection of chocolate for people with allergies or vegans.

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What’s on this Easter?

Barnsdale Gardens, LE15 8AH www.barnsdalegardens.co.uk 3rd-6th April the gardens are open from 9am-5pm with egg painting 12noon-4pm on Saturday 4th and an Easter Egg hunt daily Burghley, PE9 3JY www.burghley.co.uk On Sunday 5th April the very popular Burghley Easter Egg hunt takes place in The Garden of Surprises. Follow the treasure hunt around the gardens and solve the riddle and you are rewarded with a chocolate egg. Open from 11am – 5pm with last admission at 4.30pm.

Get the children baking Here’s 2 recipes for some Easter fun: Currant Bunny Biscuits Large cutter 12 biscuits. Small cutter 24 biscuits.

Ingredients • 125g softened butter • 75g caster sugar, plus 1-2tbsp for dusting • 1 egg, separated • 200g plain flour, sifted • 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon • 1/4 tsp mixed spice • zest of 1 lemon • 75g currants • 2tbsp milk • Preheat the oven to 200oC/400oF/Gas 6 • In a bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until pale and fluffy. Beat in the egg yolk and reserve the white.

• Gently stir in the sifted flour, spices, lemon zest and currants followed by the milk. You should now have a dough that will come together into a smooth ball. If the mixture is too dry then add a touch more milk.

• Tip the dough onto a lightly floured surface and roll out to about 5mm thick. Cut out rabbit shaped biscuits or any other shape you prefer.

• Place the biscuits slightly apart on a non-stick baking sheet and bake in the oven for approx.

10 minutes. Whilst the biscuits are cooking softly whisk the reserved egg white.

• Remove the biscuits from the oven and brush lightly with the egg whites. Sprinkle with sugar. Return them to the oven for a further 5 minutes till golden. Remove and leave to cool.

Easton Walled Gardens, NG33 5AP www.eastonwalledgardens.co.uk On Sunday 5th and Monday 6th April the gardens are open with Easter activities for the children Sacrewell Farm & Activity Centre, PE8 6HJ www.sacrewell.org.uk From 28th March to 12th April Sacrewell holds its Big Bunny Hunt. For an additional £3 on the entrance fee the kids take a tractor ride to the woods where they have to find plastic eggs hidden among the trees. On presenting these to The Big Bunny they are given a chocolate treat.

Deene Park, NN17 3EW www.deenepark.com On Sunday 5th and Monday 6th April Deene Park is open to celebrate “The Gardens at Easter”.

Chocolate Hot Cross Buns • 600g plain flour • 2 tsp dried yeast • 60g brown sugar • 2 tsp cinnamon • 1 tsp mixed spice • 1/4 cup cocoa • 2 tsp salt • 2 eggs • 250ml milk, lukewarm • 2 tblsp marmalade, chopped • 40g unsalted butter, softened • 1/2 cup currants • 1/2 cup small choc chips • 1 tsp mixed peel, optional Crosses • Plain flour and water Glaze • 1/2 cup caster sugar • 1/2 cup water • Mix together flour, yeast, sugar, cinnamon, mixed spice, cocoa and salt. In a separate bowl mix together milk, eggs and marmalade.

Slowly add the dry mixture to the wet.

When mixed through, knead in the softened butter, then the choc chips and currants/mixed peel. Knead for 5 more minutes.

• Wipe a large bowl with oil and put the dough in it and cover with cling film. Allow to prove

until it doubles in size – approx. 1 hour.

Re-knead for 3 minutes and then divide into 15 rolls. Place them on a greased baking tray about 2cm apart re-cover with cling film and leave to prove a second time until they double in size. Preheat oven to 190oC/375oF/Gas 5 • Put the crosses on the buns by mixing some flour and water in a re-sealable bag until it makes a runny paste. Cut the corner off the bag and pipe crosses. Bake in oven for 10-15 minutes until they start to brown on top. Whilst the buns are still hot, make the glaze by boiling the ingredients together until the sugar has dissolved. Brush on with a pastry brush

Local stockists for Easter baking and Fabergé egg making: Harrison & Dunn have an amazing selection of cake toppers, edible pearls and sparkles, cookie cutters, chocolate egg moulds, fluffy chicks and Easter goodies.

Lambs have a small selection of cookie cutters and Easter egg moulds The Steamer Trading Company has a few Easter cookie cutters For gold leaf go online. It is widely available – you will only need a small amount – I bought 5 sheets of 32mm square and had 1 square left over.

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goodwin’s feature property

£549,995 Guide Price£620,000

goodwin’s feature property

£549,995

Garden Cottage, Market Overton Delightful 3 bedroom period property situated in a secluded position in the heart of this popular village.

Approached via a large sweeping gravelled drive to the front of the detached double garage, the property enjoys 3 reception rooms as well as 3 bathrooms and an extremely well Kitchen/Breakfast room. town Gracious, wellfitted presented Grade II Listed

Jermyn Terrace, Oakham

Garden Cottage, Market Overton The good sized grounds accommodation. are a special featureSituated of this in house with extensive property with aOakham Southerly aspect to this totally enclosed the centre with off-street parking Delightful 3of bedroom period property situated in a and walled garden which is largely lawnwith with mature double garage toinrear.

Entrance original secluded position the heart oflaid thistohall popular village. borders andtiled avia patio to the rear. with Victorian Lounge opendrive fireplace, Approached afloor. large sweeping gravelled to the front of the detached the property Dining Room with double ornategarage, fireplace.

Large enjoys 3 reception Kitchen rooms as with well asappliances, 3 bathroomsseparate and an Utility Breakfast extremely well fitted Kitchen/Breakfast room.En-Suite and Cloakroom.

Six Double Bedrooms, Shower Master, Family with 4 piece The goodto sized grounds are a Bathroom special feature of this property with a Southerly aspect to Garden this totally enclosed suite Enclosed rear Courtyard with shed. walledRating garden E which is largely laid to lawn with mature EPC

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goodwin

www.goodwinpropertyservices.co.uk

borders and a patio to the rear.

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Residential Sales • Lettings • Mortgages

goodwin 750000 . . . your local estate agent! 01780 Independant

www.goodwinpropertyservices.co.uk

2-3 St John’s Street, Stamford, Lincs PE9 2DA

Independant

Residential Sales • Lettings • Mortgages goodwinpropertyservices.co.uk

. . . your local estate agent! 01780 750000 2-3 St John’s Street, Stamford, Lincs PE9 2DA

goodwinpropertyservices.co.uk 6

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Beautiful Interiors Timeless Quality

We pride ourselves on supplying quality fitted furniture in a wide choice of styles and flexible options to suit you and your kitchen.

Ring or visit Mark for his personal attention.

MARK FORDHAM KITCHENS The Showroom, New Road, Ryhall, Stamford PE9 4HL

01780 482892

Open: Tues-Fri 10am - 5.00pm Sat 10am - 4pm www.fordhamkitchensltd.co.uk

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FASHION

FiftyShades of Grey

Black and white is everywhere this season and every shade of grey in between! So if black and white is too stark go for a softer shade of grey and wear with white jeans or classic black trousers. Sally Stillingfleet has been finding out there’s a shade for everyone.

Off white lacey sweater £69, printed trousers £79 both Mint Velvet John Lewis.

Strappy Karl Largerfeld sandals £100 Arch Suzy D trousers and tunic as before, worn under Diane von Furstenberg print silk jacket £90 Arch

Layered pale grey Mint Velvet top £69, worn with NYD Jeans £119.95, Pearly necklace £22 all John Lewis. White Clarks Skater shoes £40 Cottons

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Sportmax silk black and white tunic £30 Arch, Tommy Hilfiger white jeans £85 Attic

White unstructured Suzy D blazer £39.95 and pull-on trousers £39.95 also available in white and navy.

Sleeveless top £35 necklace with hearts £24 all Asha’s Attire

DIRECTORY: Cottons – 7 Market Place, Oundle. Tel. 01832 272534 www.cottons-oundle.com Asha’s Attire – The Bazaar, West Street, Oundle.

Tel. 01832 275259 Arch Label Agency – 43 St. Peter’s Street, Stamford.

Tel. 01780 764746 John Lewis – Queensgate Centre, Peterborough.

Tel. 01733 344644 Attic – 33 St. Mary’s Street. Tel.01780 766667 Pictures by Elli Dean (07932 055548 ) www.ellideanphotography.co.uk Thank you to Sarah for agreeing to model for me.

Thank you to talented make-up artists Chloe and Jemma at The Beauty Room. 14 West Street, Oundle. Tel: 01832 273989 bookings@beautyroomoundle.co.uk A superb Elemis Salon.

Thank you to Chris at Designers for doing Sarah’s hair.

Old Town Hall, Market Place, Oundle. Tel: 01832 275557 Thank you to The Talbot Hotel for allowing us to use the hotel as our stunning location.

The Talbot hotel, New Street, Oundle, PE8 4EA Tel. 01832 273621 www.thetalbot-oundle.com

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BARNSDALE Holiday Homes

ANAND SHOES

of Stamford

Stockist of high quality leather footwear

• Stockist of high quality leather footwear from:

• High class shoe repair and restoration service • Official retailer for

Bears

• Shoe care products • Key cutting & Engraving service

Barnsdale Barnsdale Country Club has a limited number of Seasonal weeks available including Summer holidays, Half term and Christmas 2015 from £1500 to include your first years management fees.

• Premium Shoe Repair and Restoration Service • Shoe Care Products • Leather Goods & Gifts • Pantherella - Fine English Socks 28 High Street, Stamford, • Offi cial retailer for PE9 2BB Bears- T: 01780 767688

E: anandshoesofstamford@gmail.com

Key Cutting

Owners Benefits Buying Direct l All year round concessional use of the leisure facilities l Various discounts available throughout the hotel and resort l Complimentary exchange company enrolment l Worldwide exchange to over 4000 resorts l Rental programme options l

Far more than just keys… we carry one of the most comprehensive ranges available from household Yale and Chubb keys to many security keys. We also stock a wide range of car keys including leading brand Silca.

Engraving

OR TDO ES OU TIVITI AC

LEI

SUR

E

SPAIENCE ER EXP

Barnsdale Country Club Nr Oakham | Rutland LE15 8AB www.barnsdalehotel.co.uk Membership Services: 01572 725148

E ERI T ASS N BR TAURA R RES & BA

Barnsdale Hall Hotel COUNTRY CLUB

We engrave pet tags, trophies, medals, awards, house & business signs and more A local family business 28 High Street, Stamford, PE9 2BB T: 01780 767688 E: anandshoesofstamford@gmail.com www.anandofstamford.com

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2387 ORC-Full Page PVC Windows Stamford Living Advert_v2_ORC-Full Page PVC Windows Stamford Living Advert 03/02/2015 16:29 Page 1

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Showroom Opening Times Mon-Fri: 9am - 5pm Saturday: Windows 9am - 1pm 11

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HEALTH & BEAUTY

Great skin for every decade Genevieve Potter enlists the help of some local beauty experts to answer questions on how to make the best of your skin, whatever your age Q) I’m in my forties and although I have a basic cleanse, tone and moisturise routine, my skin is definitely lacking lustre and I’m looking for some products which really deliver results. What would you recommend?

A) Samantha from Equilibrium recommends that finding the right exfoliator for your skin is key to a brighter complexion. If you imagine all of the dead skin cells remaining on the surface of your skin, then you put your moisturiser on top of this morning and night, without exfoliation, those dead skin cells are acting like a barrier. A good exfoliator such as the Thalgo resurfacing cream (£31.95) is definitely a girl’s best friend!

It contains aluminium oxide micro-crystals and shea butter, plus the dermasensine, an ingredient which boosts collagen production and will not cause drying of the skin (as we get older this is key for any skincare products you use).

Q) I’ve got a small baby and not getting much sleep. Consequently my eyes are looking very tired and baggy and for the first time I’ve got dark circles. What can I do as a quick fix?

A) Equilibrium recommends Thalgo eye patch masks (£35 for eight pairs), an express treat for tired eyes. They are a cool-feeling moistened patch with a gel texture, containing key ingredients that

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help to plump up and fill fine lines and wrinkles in ten minutes, along with marine extracts that restore hydration. (Top tip - you can keep them in the fridge for a stronger effect).

Q) I’m in my 50s and feel like my moisturiser is no longer rich enough – what do you suggest?

A) The beauty team at Asembo advises that if you feel your moisturiser is not hydrating your skin sufficiently (even when exfoliating regularly to aid absorption), this is where a serum and regular facials can really come in to their own.

Espa have a range of highly advanced serums for the eye area and the face, which penetrate more deeply and boost the properties of your moisturiser (ESPA Lift & Firm Intensive Eye Serum 15ml £55, ESPA Lift & Firm Intensive Serum 15ml £47.50).

The 90 minute ESPA lift and firm facial (£70) will also give mature skin a real boost and helps to combat lines and wrinkles. It includes a deep cleanse and exfoliation followed by an advanced massage technique to smooth and firm followed by a mask and moisturisers. It uses specialised lifting techniques which stimulate collagen production, leaving the skin feeling toned and firmer. Espa products smell divine and this treatment is deeply relaxing as well as uplifting.

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Q) I am in my 30s and I don’t use a moisturiser with an SPF – although my tinted moisturiser does have an SPF of 15. But surely I only need to use an SPF when I am sunbathing anyway?

A) Neeta of Flawless Faces (who have recently relocated to a great new location in Scotgate, formerly ‘Pots of Fun’), has some strong advice on this issue. ‘Layering’ SPF is a myth and it is critical to protect your skin against environmental and ageing factors such as U.V. rays, whatever your age.You need to do this all year round.

As well as a good SPF barrier, Neeta recommends the Decléor Aroma Lisse range.

The key ingredient in these products is mandarin essential oil, an active ingredient proven to protect skin cells from free radical damage. One of the hero products is Aromessence mandarine (£49.50), a serum that targets the lower layers of skin. Teamed with a night balm to get optimal results at home and then monthly facials, you’ll really see the difference in your skin.

Q) I’m in my 60s and whilst I don’t have an unlimited budget to spend on face creams, I’d like to treat myself to something which really works. What do you suggest?

A) Decléor’s Prolagene lift range from Flawless Faces delivers a more supple, hydrated complexion and has been specifically designed for mature skin. If your budget will stretch, the Aromessence Iris serum (£55), layered underneath the Prolagene lift and firm day cream (£69.50) will really boost your skin’s firmness and minimise fine lines and wrinkles.

Q) What would be a good range of skin care to introduce my teenage daughter to?

A) Stamford Beauty offer the advanced Dermalogica range and Dermalogica experts,

Louise and Natalie offer skincare lessons and mini-facial treatments to tweens and teens using the Clear Start range. It’s specifically formulated to unclog pores, minimise breakouts and control oil, often triggered by puberty. Starting at such a young age will help teens to achieve clear skin and establish good skincare habits.

Q) I’m definitely paying the price for too much time in the sun over the years; how can I minimise the brown pigmentation now starting to show through on my face and chest area?

A) Stamford Beauty offers the new Dermalogica Biosurface Peel. Depending on the extent of the damage it comprises three to six treatments over a course of three to twelve weeks and will deliver a dramatic improvement (contact Stamford Beauty for more information).

Q) I am seeing unsightly skin-tags appearing on my face and body, but my doctor says these are harmless. Can I get them removed?

A) Yes, skin tags, blood spots and other minor imperfections are not something you have to put up with. They can be simply and painlessly removed to reveal smoother skin, using advanced electrolysis techniques – but it’s vital to find the right practitioner. In Stamford Carolyn Claypole at the Electrolysis and Skincare studio in the George Hotel Mews is as well-qualified as you’ll find anywhere (she has 20 years’ experience and trains other professionals around the UK in advanced electrolysis techniques).

Pop in for an individual consultation - a session with Carolyn costs from £38.

Q) My teenage daughter is suffering from acne and I think it is due to the make-up she is wearing – what would you suggest?

A) Aimee from the Advanced Skin Clinic often sees this problem – the wrong make-up can have a highly detrimental effect on skin.

Mineral make-up like the Jane Iredale range is non-comedogenic (doesn’t block pores) and is free from perfume, alcohol, chemical preservatives and chemical dyes. Aimee has many testimonials from clients whose skin has improved dramatically using this range.

It’s also worth considering the right supplements to help skin heal and renew – regular doses of vitamin A and antioxidants are excellent (the advanced nutrition plan is also available from the Clinic).

Finally using Skinfirst technology and pulsed

light technology, the deeper layers of skin can be targeted to eradicate bacteria which causes acne (pop in to the clinic for more information).

Q) I’m in my 50s with sensitive skin and I’m also noticing a loss of tone and radiance.

I want to invest in the way I look but I’m definitely not ready for surgery or anything too drastic - where do I start?

A) Fiona at Renaissance has a loyal following for the Medik8 product range – an awardwinning range which has some “magic bullet” ingredients including mandelic acid, kojic acid, vitamin C and retinol. These products deliver outstanding results but won’t irritate skin.

Additionally, Fiona has developed the Renaissance collagen lift facial. It combines muscle toning, skin tightening and lifting, and skin rejuvenation by using CACI non-surgical face lifting, microdermabrasion, thermotherapy, ultrasound, light therapy and cryotherapy.

The treatment can be used on its own for immediate results or taken as a course over five weeks for cumulative, more lasting results.

(A single treatment costs £110, or a course of ten treatments over five weeks is £750).

SALON DIRECTORY: The Advanced Skin Clinic 8, High Street, St Martin’s Stamford, PE9 2LF - Tel: 01780 481155 www.theadvancedskinclinic.co.uk Asembo - 20 St Leonard’s Street, Stamford, PE9 2HN - Tel: 01780 765337 www.asembo.co.uk The Electrolysis & Skincare Studio George Hotel Mews, Stamford, PE9 2LB Tel: 01780 763620 Equilibrium - 7 St Pauls Street, Stamford, PE9 2BE - Tel: 01780 757579 www.equilibriumstamford.co.uk www.facebook.com/equilibriumstamford Flawless Faces - 17/18 Scotgate, Stamford PE9 2YQ - Tel: 01780 660301 www.flawlessfaces.co.uk Renaissance - 2 Mallory Lane, Stamford, PE9 2FW - Tel: 01780 763768 www.renaissancebeauty.co.uk Stamford Beauty - 15 St Mary’s Hill, Stamford, PE9 2DP - Tel: 01780 757108 www.stamfordbeauty.com email stamfordbeauty@gmail.com

STAMFORD LIVING APRIL 2015

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THE NEW ONLINE LIFESTYLE BOUTIQUE

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or drop in any Mon or Thur 9-5 Ryhall Road, Stamford PE9 1YA. (located within the Hospital Site behind Sheep Market Surgery)

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Need a boost?

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Searching for a new look?

Independent Optometrists and Contact Lens Practitioners

Providing eyecare and caring for eyesight in Stamford for over 30 years Combining clinical excellence with personalised service tailored to your individual needs • Private and NHS eye examinations • Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) • Glaucoma clinic • Contact lenses • Children

• Coloured overlay assessment • Dry eye assessment • Retinal imaging • Visual fields • Wide range of frames and lenses to suit all budgets

Christine Pirrie Optometrist 7-8 Maiden Lane, Stamford PE9 2AZ. | T: 01780 753488 | www.christinepirrie.co.uk

I’ll give you the skills to accessorise and update your wardrobe to suit your body shape, lifestyle and budget, giving you that all-important confidence boost.

Christine Brown | Styling Coach Mob: 07833 343512 christine_brown1@btconnect.com

Health & Beauty Therapy 2 MALLORY LANE, STAMFORD TEL. 01780 763768

All aspects of beauty therapy available New to Renaissance is Thermavein, a treatment that can eliminate thread veins in one treatment.

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Special Offer for March and April....

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Watch the video on our website

www.renaissancebeauty.co.uk

Maples has won a place at the Regional Finals of the hairdressing industry’s most fashion-led live hairdressing competition the L’Oréal Colour Trophy 2015.

Laura and Karen are part of a very excited salon team who are all overjoyed with having broken through to the next level of the competition.

“It’s a great achievement to make it to this stage, the Regional finals have an amazing atmosphere bringing talented hairdressers from all over the region under one roof.”

Trevor Sorbie MBE

Ring 01780 752725 to book your Hair and Beauty Appointments!

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ACTIVITIES

Child Friendly S Antonia Scott finds out what activities are going on locally to keep your little ones happy BABY AND TODDLER EVENT

Bumps, Babies and Beyond is hosting an event on Saturday 11th April at Grantham College refectory from 10am-3pm, selling pre-loved and new toys, gifts, handmade crafts and maternity goodies. There is also a tea room selling refreshments and entry is 50p on the door.

Email: emmalarsenadams@gmail.com if you are interested in having a stall or for more details.

SOFT PLAY

The Yard soft play centre in Stamford has some new welcome additions - a visiting hairdresser is now available every other Friday, so you can let your little ones run off some steam before sitting still for the perfect chop! Mums and Dads are welcome to have a trim too!

They have also teamed up with frozen food guru ‘COOK’ to be able to provide delicious, nutritious, organic hot food for children, as well as developing their main menu over the next few months. They also have a new spring-like logo!

DINKY DANCERS

Emma runs various classes at different venues around Stamford and is fast gaining a loyal following due to her enthusiasm and natural flair towards children. See The Meeting Tree on Facebook for a list of all her classes. www.facebook.com/themeetingtreestamford

couples - from 34 weeks to birth. The next one is Saturday April 18th from 10am – 1pm in the Guide Hall, Conduit Road, Stamford. The Workshop explores ways in which you and your partner can enhance the experience of your baby’s birth, by learning relaxation and breathing techniques, yoga, massage, movement and sound to help prepare and empower you both for labour and birth.

Courses are £50 per couple, booking essential Monday April 13th Market Deeping Children’s Centre Baby Yoga 9.45am – 11am Baby Massage 11.15am – 12.30pm Stamford Guide Hall Pregnancy Yoga 6.30pm – 8pm Wednesday April 15th Stamford Children’s Centre Baby Yoga 11.30am – 12.45pm Thursday April 16th Stamford Guide Hall Baby Yoga 9.45am – 11am Baby Massage 11.15am – 12.30pm Friday April 17th Stamford Children’s Centre Baby Yoga 9.45am – 11am Baby Massage 11.15am – 12.30pm Tel: 07894 468224 julie@babynomad.net www.babynomad.net or FB - LoveBabyNomad

BABY/TODDLER GROUPS SHINING STARS

A group for babies and toddlers, birth - 4 years, run by helpers and volunteers. Every Tuesday from 10am – 11.30am at The United Reformed Church Hall, Stamford.

SEEDLINGS

Baby to preschool. Every Tuesday from 10am – 11.30am at St George’s Place, Stamford

JACK AND JILL CLUB – KETTON

Run by Ruth Robinson, this popular playgroup for babies up to Pre Schoolers is held in the Methodist Church on Bull Lane, Ketton every Tuesday from 9.30am – 11.30am term time only and is £1.50/session. Tel: 07780 675301

TUMBLETOTS

A range of classes run at Stamford Arts Centre every Monday from babies aged 6 months to toddlers and pre schoolers. For more information: www.tumbletots.com/ Peterborough/

BABY NOMAD

Julie Bickerton runs baby yoga and massage classes, as well as Active Birth Workshops for

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THEATRE/DRAMA

Talent Youth Theatre is already proving really popular with local pre-school age children.

Run by Nathalie Franklin, a trained drama teacher and mother, who hopes to inspire in her students the same love of theatre that drives her.

‘Diddy’ Drama Classes for 2-4 year olds are every Friday from 9.45am – 10.30am in the Theatre Lounge of the Stamford Corn Exchange. £4/workshop Classes for school age children are starting on 9 September 2015 and places are filling up fast.

All Workshops are £7/class: Wednesdays: ‘Fresh’ Drama, for 4-7 year olds, from 3.454.30pm, ‘Preen’ Drama, for 8-12 year olds, from 4.306.30pm Thursdays: ‘Teen’ Drama, for 13-18 year olds, from 4.306.30pm Contact Nathalie on 07795 311777 to book a class, or find her Facebook page: Talent Youth Theatre for more details.

BAREFOOT BOOKS

Barefoot Books showcase inspiring stories and beautiful artwork and are committed to nurturing a love of reading in a way that encourages children to explore their creativity and discover the diversity of the world’s many cultures and traditions. Run by Katie Wilkins, who will be doing a regular monthly Story Time at The Yard and is also launching a ‘Story Explorers’ with Talent Youth Theatre storytelling, drama and crafts for 3-6 year olds, in the Easter holidays. For more information: www.facebook.com/katiesbarefootbooksuk BABY SIGNING – weekly classes at The Yard on Wednesday and Thursday from 2pm – 3pm

SWIMMING:

Toddler Splash: every Tuesday from 2pm – 4pm and Wednesday between 11am – 12.30pm at Stamford Leisure Centre, Drift Road, Stamford.

TREATLEY’S BAKERY

Rachael Twinley set up her own Treatley’s bakery business from home exactly a year ago having moved to Stamford 6 years ago.

As a mum to 2 young daughters – who are now her chief cake testers! – she now supplies, on average 12 cakes plus cookies a week to The Yard soft play, and approximately 5 additional cakes/week for other clients.

Over the past year, Treatley’s has made over 80 celebration cakes, 50 of which have been children’s birthday cakes or Christening cakes.

Some have included 3D models, or gravity defying cakes!

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Stamford WILDCATS HOLIDAY WORKSHOPS

Wednesday 1st April: Horrible Histories - Courageous Kings and Quirky Queens - For ages 5-13 years.

Thursday 2nd April: Glee Workshop - For ages 5-16 years (with split age groups throughout the day).

Tuesday 7th April: Mary Poppins - For ages 5-13 years. Kelly Wednesday 8th April: Les Miserables Workshop (Two age groups) For ages 5-10 and 11-16 years.

Thursday 9th April: Charlie and the Chocolate Factory - For ages 5-13 years.

Friday 10th April: Wicked/Wizard of Oz - For ages 5-13 years.

Workshops take place at Wildcats Academy, Castle House, St Peters Hill, Stamford. PE9 2PE and run from 9.30am - 4.00pm. All children require a packed lunch and plenty to drink.

WILDCATS POST 16 ACADEMY PROFESSIONAL DANCE COURSE The course, starting this September in partnership with New College Stamford offers students aged 16 and offers the chance to train with professional teachers with experience in the industry. Led by the Wildcats team, Dance teacher Vince Williams has extensive experience of working in the dance industry having choreographed many TV, film and theatre shows including Dizzy Rascal, the feature film ‘Nativity 3’ and up and coming band ‘Catfish and the Bottlemen’.

The course is set up to teach a broad knowledge of dance styles including Ballet, Tap and Commercial alongside theoretical aspects including working freelance and Auditions for Dancers.

There are limited places for the course which is fully funded (free of charge) to all qualifying students aged 16-19 (subject to meeting criteria which is non-means tested). Wildcats wants to make these free places available to local young people.

• To apply for a funded place please call Wildcats on 01780 762000 or email admin@wildcats-uk.com Audition dates will be issued on a first come first served basis.

SECOND TO NONE

Antonia Scott gets a sneak peak into Second to None’s Aladdin’s cave – run by Neil Scholes

S

ECOND to None is run by Neil Scholes, who instead of going to university at 18, opted for the adventure of starting a business straight after leaving school, having been inspired by the entrepreneurial spirit of Alan Sugar and Richard Branson. He started trading in 1999 in Ketton, winning the ‘Live Wire Award for Business’ in his first year and quickly moved to a larger store in North Street, Stamford where he had great success for nearly 10 years.

In 2009, Neil closed the shop and now trades exclusively online and has become one of the largest online second hand shops in the country with over 1,500 items in stock. They cater for all styles, tastes and budgets, with items from £5 up to £500! All items are photographed and listed on the website where they can be reserved by email and then viewed/collected by appointment only at their warehouse on Great Casterton Road, Stamford. Customers need to be aware that the warehouse is not a walk round shop where customers are able to browse for items.

Neil also offers a full or part house clearance service in the Stamford area, removing all items if required, or any individual items that need selling.

Neil says, “Second to None is committed to offering good quality items at good prices to everyone” and with over a thousand Facebook ‘Likes’ it seems to be a hit with his loyal local following, who return each season to revamp their homes and get a whole new look for less.

• www.SecondToNoneStamford.com Tel : 07989 133362 STAMFORD LIVING APRIL 2015

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HURRY SPECIAL BED SPRING PROMOTIONS 100’s of bed’s with huge discounts.

Now available for immediate delivery

Family run business with traditional quality services including removal of your old bed

Disposal of O

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Phorpres Cygnet Park, Cygnet Park, West Street,Close, Stamford.

PE9 2PS Close, Peterborough.

PE7 Hampton, Peterborough.

PE7 8FZ 8FZ (just along from Waitrose) (behind Dobbies Garden Garden Centre) Centre)

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View our website for more details

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Vi-Spring | Myers | Silentnight | Staples & many more…

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Creating beautiful bespoke kitchens Mark Goodacre creates individually handcrafted kitchens for people who appreciate a higher standard of design and finish in their homes

Come and visit our show room for more examples of our work, or call to make an appointment to discuss your requirements

Telephone 01476 586 159 | email info@markgoodacre.com | www.markgoodacre.com

Serving light lunches, coffee, teas and cakes in the grounds of Rutland Water Garden Nursery

Rutland Water Garden Nursery, Lyndon Road, Manton, Oakham, Rutland, LE15 8RN

e: welliescoffeeshop@hotmail.com t: 01572 737059

OPEN Monday - Saturday 9am-4pm (Winter) 9am-4:30pm (Summer) Sunday - 10am-3:30pm

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UPDATES

Wellies Café at the Rutland Water Garden Centre Bob & Trisha Browne have successfully run the Rutland Water Garden Centre for over twenty years, and in the last few years Trisha had started to dream about a café on site. e were so impressed when we went to visit the new establishment. It is a purpose-built building in the Garden Centre and it is beautifully appointed, and brilliantly themed around the name Wellies – so there are Wellies logos, Wellies milk-shake glasses, wellies at the door etc…The food and drinks are immaculately presented, the service is friendly and efficient, what’s not to like about this wonderful new place. And as soon as you step outside, you have glorious views looking over Rutland Water.

The menu includes hot drinks, soft drinks, milkshakes, cakes & scones, sandwiches & baguettes, paninis & toasties, baked jacket potatoes and the soup of the day.

• Rutland Water Garden Nursery, Lyndon Road, Manton, LE15 8RN. Tel: 01572 737059. Opening Times - Monday Saturday 9am-4pm (Winter) 9am-4:30pm (Summer) Sunday - 10am-3:30pm

W

Katy Browne, Trisha Browne, Alice Manby

24th Charity Craft Dabble Day Make & Take Crafting Event in aid of Sue Ryder, Thorpe Hall Hospice he area’s largest charity craft event is due to take place Saturday 14th March 10am-3pm at the Market Deeping Community Centre, Douglas Road, PE6 8PA (all welcome, open day arrive any time, allow a couple of hrs for some crafting fun! no booking required) entry still only £6 and accompanied children £4 for 3 dabbles all profits to Sue Ryder.

Organised by Market Deeping based card making, scrap booking & beading craft supplies specialists Riverside Beads and Crafts, this is the

T

24th popular event with different card making techniques, jewellery making and sewing craft tables, a tutor and all the materials you need are provided on each table - just come along for a bit of crafting fun, in aid of a great cause.

All profits from the admission and refreshments go to Sue Ryder Thorpe Hall Hospice.

• Details available from event organisers www.riversidecrafts.co.uk.

Contact Donna 01778 344550

The Loomes Everest attempt…the journey begins!

The Rutland Optimists

urther to our article in last month’s issue of Stamford Living on the Loomes Everest watch, we can report that the watches have now been handed over in a ceremony at Stamford Town Hall which took place in early March.

The handover itself was a memorable and joyous occasion, with senior representatives from the Nepalese Embassy, Captain Dick Gale of the Gurkha Regiment, along with the Gurkhas climbing and many local dignitaries.

Catering was (naturally) provided by our very own Nepalese restaurant, 8848.

As well as insights into the brilliant work of the Mountain Trust, who will benefit from monies raised, Robert Loomes read out a letter of support from David Cameron.

And it is believed to be the first time ever that a Nepalese flag has flown on the Town Hall alongside the Union Jack.

The ascent will take place in May and last several weeks. Until now, no serving Gurkha has reached the summit of Mount Everest; and no English watch has reached the summit since the Hillary ascent in 1953.

One watch will be donated to the Mountain Trust after it has reached the summit (the team assured us it will be well wrapped up during the ascent), and will be auctioned to raise funds.

• To find out about these and other exquisite English hand-made watches, contact: Loomes & Co, 4 St Mary’s Hill, Stamford, PE9 2DP Tel: 01780 481319 www.robertloomes.com

he Rutland Optimists is a social activities and friendship group for people on their own who are looking for a lively social life and an opportunity to meet other singles in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. The group is for singles aged 40s, 50s and 60s who are unattached. The group is centred geographically in Rutland and most events are within easy travelling distance of Oakham and Stamford.

The group was founded in Oakham in 1991 and has changed and adapted over the years but still retains the core ethos of friendship and support. Many long-term friendships have been formed through the group and some members have met new partners. However, the group does not function as a dating agency.

Events take place every week and details are set out in a monthly newsletter or if members prefer by e mail. A regular monthly fixture is club night on the last Monday of the month at the Wheatsheaf Inn, Northgate, Oakham.

There’s an option to meet up beforehand for a meal. Events vary each month, but typically they can include meals out, parties, pub live music nights, theatre, dinner discos, walks etc. basically any events a member proposes and organises.

• Find out more at www.oppies.org.uk

F

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Residential Lettings Commercial Agricultural Planning & Development

You can rely on

Local property agents since 1812

Maxey

Guide Price ÂŁ675,000

Situated in the heart of this large village this attractive stone barn conversion offers spacious accommodation with large kitchen diner, 4 reception rooms with sitting room having stove, 4 bedrooms, 2 ensuites and family bathroom.

Oil central heating, replacement double glazing. Wide plot with parking to one side and driveway with detached oversized double garage to the other. Private gardens with southerly aspect and large purpose built cabin with heated pool (air source heat pump) sauna and shower room.

Manton

FOR SALE BY AUCTION

Situated in the popular Rutland village of Manton, this impressive Listed property was until recently used as an Antiques shop. The property has some lovely period features including mullion windows, panelled oak doors and flagstone floorings. It is now in need of total renovation. The accommodation comprises 4 good size ground floor rooms and 4 rooms to the first floor. A driveway to the side of the property leads to a dilapidated workshop and garden ground to the rear. The auction will be held on Wednesday 22nd April 2015 at 6pm at The Falcon, Uppingham.

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www.richardsonestateagents.co.uk

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MARCIA MAY SHOES 41 St Mary’s Street,

17b Mill Street,

Stamford, PE9 2DS

Oakham, LE15 6EA

Tel: 01780 766608

Tel: 01572 759313

follow us on facebook

CURTAINS | BLINDS | SHUTTERS | AWNINGS WALLPAPER | BESPOKE POLES & TRACKS FREE DESIGN & CONSULTATION SERVICE 16 North Street, Stamford, PE9 1EH

01780 481416 www.jlball.co.uk

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DESIGN INSPIRATION

Time for tea sy kits in ers tea co esigns. m m u S y Libb various d

£18. These rting from ta s ur s e c ri o keep yo l Shop, p but will als s Ewe Woo u t o a e ld rg o o s Kits are xtremely g not only e cosies are for longer. tea warm

Cornishwa re teapo Lambs £3 t from 5

Nook Furn iture 24

Denby tea pot from L ambs, £35 .20

21.99 Sinclairs £

£14.99

For me, any time is time for tea, but what more appropriate than Easter - a great excuse for throwing a tea party and treating your kitchen to a new teapot. There is a great selection in our local shops; and here are just a few..

Photography by Elli Dean www.ellideanphotography.co.uk

You Living & Home £26 Giving, Teapot by Pip .25

ntry ttery from Cou o p h lis o P e d Handma 9.95 Traditionals £3

STAMFORD LIVING APRIL 2015

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Tinwell Road, Stamford ÂŁ535,000 A delightful Grade II listed detached cottage situated close to the town centre on one of Stamford's premier roads. The property offers versatile accommodation with a split level sitting room and plans to alter the existing kitchen area to create a more open plan feel. The Master bedroom comes with an en-suite and dressing area, the Guest bedroom also has an en-suite and there are two further bedrooms on the top floor. To the side of the property is a gated driveway providing off street parking, along with a single garage and a west facing enclosed mature garden.

Laughton Drive, Stamford ÂŁ320,000 A modern detached family home set in the market town of Stamford with the accommodation set over three floors. Living room, breakfast kitchen and a conservatory, Master bedroom with ensuite, four further bedrooms and a family bathroom. The property is finished to a high standard throughout and offers good access to the town centre, A1 and local schooling. To the side is a driveway which leads to a single garage, whilst to the rear is a well presented patio and lawned garden

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Our experience makes yours Find your perfect holiday with your local, independent & friendly travel experts

ITALIAN LAKES T

he Italian Lake District covers a large area of the Alpine Foothills in Northern Italy.

The landscape is dotted with a series of spectacular glacial lakes which are framed by steep mountains and picturesque villages all within a short distance of the great cities of Milan and Verona.

The four largest lakes are Garda, Como, Lugano and Maggiore and the great number of smaller lakes include Orta and Iseo. Each offer a slightly different experience, Shona Parker at Oundle Travel lived and worked in Italy for many years, so she is happy to advise. Oundle Travel are happy to recommend a tailor-made itinerary which includes two or more lakes.

Sirmione – The medieval town of Sirmione is situated at the end of a long peninsula at the southern end of Lake Garda and is made up of a maze of narrow streets that are limited to traffic. It has elegant boutiques, villas and a wealth of historical features including the impressive 13th century Scaliger Castle.

To celebrate a special occasion or anniversary stay at The Villa Cortine, a splendid villa with its neo-classical Palladian style façade standing at the tip of the Sirmione peninsula on the southern shores of Lake Garda. The hotel is a haven of luxury reached through the tiny narrow streets of Sirmione. With just 47 rooms and a tennis court bordered by tall cypress trees it is sure to impress; a beautiful alfresco restaurant completes this stunning property.

• Prices available on request please call 01832 273600 • Latest Offers also available on www.oundletravel.co.uk

01832 273600

Market Place, Oundle, Peterborough, PE8 4EA Email: sales@oundletravel.co.uk Website: www.oundletravel.co.uk

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Advertisement Feature

Orthopaedics at the Fitzwilliam Hospital Nicholas Rudd Jones went to meet the team to find out what the latest developments were.

ABOUT THE FITZWILLIAM The Fitzwilliam is one of Cambridgeshire’s leading independent hospitals, with a reputation for delivering high quality healthcare treatments and services since 1983. It is located in the quiet landscaped grounds of the Milton Estate in Peterborough and has 45 single bedrooms all with en suite facilities.

THE ORTHOPAEDIC CONSULTANTS One of its leading specialities is orthopaedics i.e. conditions involving the musculoskeletal system.

There are fourteen orthopaedic consultants affiliated to the hospital, each with a specialism in a particular aspect of orthopaedics, including: the upper limbs – hands, wrists and elbow; the lower limbs – hips and knees; the feet – ankles, arches, toes and the spine. These conditions might have arisen out of normal wear and tear, sports injuries or some other chronic condition. Without exception, the orthopaedic consultants are leading experts in their field and experienced practitioners with the facility to quickly identify the medical issue and then propose an effective solution.

THE SUPPORT TEAM AND FACILITIES What also sets Fitzwilliam aside is its support team and facilities.

Behind every operation there will be a team of radiologists, radiographers and nurses who will all be vital to a successful outcome.

From the moment you are referred to a consultant by your GP, the process will move forward in a timely fashion with the minimum of delay. If the consultant concludes that an X-ray is required, that will be done immediately and the results discussed with you there and then. If an ultrasound or MRI scan is required, then a second appointment will be made as soon as possible, typically within a week. The team will always try and work around your own time constraints. Morag Wilson, the Radiology Manager, commented: “We always try and fit in with our patients’ busy schedules; we are open in the evenings and on Saturdays, reducing the need for people to take time off work.”

THE NEW MRI SCANNER At the start of 2014, Fitzwilliam invested in a state of the art MRI scanner that enables still more detail about a patient’s orthopaedic condition to be ascertained prior to starting on a particular course of treatment.

The MRI team is led by Mark Milton. He gained his degree in Sheffield and then went on to do further study in London, after which he gained experience in several leading hospitals before coming to the Fitzwilliam. He is passionate about the power of the technology to provide really insightful information that will help to maximise patient’s outcomes. Whilst an X-ray is typically good at spotting a bone issue, an MRI scan can detect much more subtle conditions, for example small tears to ligaments. There is a great deal of skill in setting the scanner up in exactly the right way, and Mark has a team of three to support him in this vital task.

THE EXCELLENT PHYSIOTHERAPY DEPARTMENT The Fitzwilliam takes great pride in its top class physiotherapy

service, boasting a highly qualified team of a dozen or so senior chartered physiotherapists, led by Tommi Capstick, who are all HCPC registered.

Providing it is practical, they will start work within 24 hours of a patient’s operation, maintaining support at an intense level whilst the patient remains in hospital, and thereafter providing extensive out-patient support.

The outpatient department has private treatment areas and a rehabilitation gym packed with modern equipment.

The team has lots of skills and techniques at its disposal, including shock wave therapy for stubborn conditions such as Achilles Heel. Strong physio support is of course one of the keys to a speedy and effective recovery. The excellent physiotherapy department offers a full range of services to both inpatients and outpatients. You are also welcome to contact them directly on 01733 842319.

A PATIENT TESTIMONIAL Steven Hooper, in his late 30s, was a patient of Mr Hartley’s, an orthopaedic consultant specialising in knees. In the spring of 2014 Steven had a double knee replacement.

He tells the story: “I had experienced arthritis since I was very young, and things had got considerably worse in the last three years. I had had several arthroscopies (keyhole surgery) to keep the condition at bay, but now something more radical was needed.

“I met with Mr Hartley, who was very very good. He was very up-front and direct, no pussy footing around, he told me what he felt was needed.

“As a result I was one of the first patients in the UK to have the Visionaire Knee Replacement – this is a meticulously constructed new custom-built knee, first pioneered in the USA. You have to go through a lot more X-rays and MRIs to get an exact 3-D image of your joints.

“When I went into hospital, the operation itself lasted three hours, I then spent a week recuperating with intense physio support. It was a couple of months before I really started seeing the benefits. Now, a year down the track, I realise how much more it allows me to do than I used to be able to do. I am able to sail again, which is a great pleasure”.

• For more information on our services please contact our Hospital Services Advisor: 01733 842304 Fitzwilliam Hospital, Milton Way, South Bretton, Peterborough, PE3 9AQ. Tel: 01733 261717 www.fitzwilliamhospital.co.uk

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GARDENING

Getting the most o garden as spring b Antonia Scott relishes the welcome arrival of spring and the allure of some al fresco entertaining

GARDEN DESIGN Getting the help of a professional garden designer is invaluable if you want to start revamping your outside space. You may have a clear picture of what you want the overall ‘look and feel’ of your garden to be, but aren’t quite sure where or how to start.

Or you might not even know what you want, or where to start, so asking for an initial consultation to discuss your requirements is essential. Once plans and illustrations have been done showing the types of plants, colour schemes, water features and paving plans, you can then have an overall picture of what you are aiming for and make tweaks and adjustments along the way as required.

Ken Rawson based in Easton on the Hill, offers advice on garden design to a wide range of clients and says, “You need to make the most of your space both practically and aesthetically and a designer looks at both these aspects. Having a design on paper Garden design by Ken Rawson Left: Before Below: After

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makes you focus on your requirements and tastes. There can be no misinterpretation as there can be with verbal instructions to a contractor and very often a landscaper will prefer to work from a plan, all details being there to quote accurately from and to build to and all decisions as to what goes where and materials having been made already. A garden designer should know about plants, their suitability to the site, their growth rate and habits and any particular quirks they may have.”

Marram Gardens based in Stamford has numerous testimonials to illustrate their happy customer base and are able to provide a premium landscape gardening service within your budget – whether it’s laying block paving, patios and slabbing, water features and ponds, full tree surgery or simply giving advice on a planting scheme.

Adam Frost has noticed that increasingly his clients are recognising that gardening is great for health and wellbeing and people seem to want more from their gardens than just ‘pretty planting schemes’ – but see it more as a place to connect with nature and spend precious time with friends and family.

“I’ve noticed that clients seem happier to pay for one-off features, particularly something that is a little different and made by craftsmen. With regards to planting, shrubs are increasingly popular with clients and I’m also adding more fruit to planting schemes which people are really engaging with.

Getting children outdoors and interested in gardening has long been a mission of mine and the advice I give to everyone, is to

start off by building them a simple timber vegetable bed so they can have a patch that is solely theirs. You could even install a sign confirming it’s their territory! – my granddad made one for me and I loved the fact a part of the garden was just mine.”

Larkfield Gardening is run by locals Andy and Darren, who carry out a wide spectrum of garden maintenance, from planting/ advising with regards to what suits each individual garden, fencing, decking, patios and paths, pergolas and tree work. They pride themselves on the quality of their work and their high level of customer service along with the fact they undertake any task no matter the size or scale.

Their top gardening tips for April include: 1) Remove weeds from paving and gravel before they get established; 2) Prune and trim shrubs and climbers that produce their flowers on new growth; 3) Tidy up herbaceous boarders to promote new growth; 4) Divide snow drops when finished flowering; 5) Start tackling weed seedlings as they will grow quickly as the weather warms and they will self seed; 6) Dead head spring bulbs to stop them producing unwanted seed heads; 7) Summer-flowering bulbs such as Lilies, Gladiolus and Ranunculus can be planted in early spring for a colourful summer display; 8) If you have a vegetable patch, warm up the soil ready for planting by covering with black polythene or fleece for 3-4 weeks;

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st out of your g beckons

GARDEN CENTRES

LAWN CARE Custom Lawn Care is an independent lawn care service based in Stamford with over 10 years experience, helping both domestic and commercial customers throughout Cambridgeshire, Northamptonshire and Lincolnshire. They are strong believers that the secret to a perfect lawn is natural, well treated soil, which is why they only use organic, biological friendly fertilisers, helping to produce a green and healthy lawn.

Fentons of Bourne are the local garden machinery experts, stocking a wide range of lawnmowers, garden tractors, brush cutters and can give expert advice on the correct machine to meet your needs.

They also provide expert service, repairs and spare parts for all leading makes of garden machinery and are a factory approved sales centre for Iseki, Stiga, Mountfield, Grasshopper and Kioti.

GOOD LUCK ADAM! Next month Adam Frost will be returning to the Chelsea Flower Show in the hopes of bringing back an incredible 7th Gold Medal.

Sponsored again by Homebase, this year’s design is a striking modernist garden inspired by the Bauhaus movement and the work of one of its most famous proponents, Marcel Breuer. Entitled Urban Retreat the garden will celebrate the striking design principles of the early 20th century design movement, by incorporating modernist materials such a concrete and corten steel, with simple geometric shapes to create a garden that sits comfortably within an urban setting and in which the local community and wildlife can flourish. Adam’s design blends the structures of the urban environment with the softness of nature to show how green space can be successfully incorporated into towns and cities.

Stamford Garden Centre run by Chris Isaac and his team is fast becoming the ‘go to place’ for anything original both inside and outside your home – with some amazing pizza ovens and incredibly beautiful Cretan pots that are hand thrown in Crete to make any terrace a statement feature. The Garden Centre also stocks the really fun looking and eco friendly range of ‘Hairy Pot Plant Company’, whose pots are made from the fibres of coconut husks in Sri Lanka – giving valuable employment to the local people. Once the pots are shaped and cooked with latex from the local rubber trees, they are hand trimmed and shipped to a Hampshire nursery to be filled with herbs and cottage garden plants. The beauty of these natural pots is that you leave the plant inside and simply put the whole thing in the ground and water well until established. The tiny holes in the hairy pot sides help prune the root system with air while they grow, which prevents root curling and gets a whole crowd of root tips ready near the pot wall to strike out for freedom when planted in the garden. Children particularly love these tactile pots and have been a best seller for Mother’s Day! Welland Valley Timber has a huge range of different woods to choose from to enhance your outdoor space, whether you fancy some basic garden fencing, hazel hurdle to naturally screen or block off areas, an elaborate arbour to enhance your climbers, some summer decking on your patio area, or some reclaimed railways sleepers for a raised vegetable bed, the choices are endless.

Waterside Garden Centre is lucky enough to be set adjacent to the Fenland Nature Trail, so customers can enjoy the enormous outdoor space and scenic plant area whilst also perusing the wide range of home and garden products, as well as the popular family friendly pets and fish.

GARDEN GOODIES John Lewis stocks a vast range of products for garden loving enthusiasts so that people can enjoy being outdoors for longer. Choose from a selection of barbecues and fire pits, heaters and weather resistant furniture, lights and lanterns – there’s something for everyone to get excited about spring being round the corner and the promise of some al fresco entertaining.

DIRECTORY Adam Frost – www.adamfrost.co.uk/ Tel: 01780 753404 John Lewis – Queensgate Centre, Peterborough Stamford Garden Centre - www.stamfordgardencentre.co.uk Tel: 01780 765656 Ken Rawson – Tel: 01780 481624 www.kenrawsongardendesigns.co.uk/ Marram Gardens - Tel: 01780 752119 www.marramgardens.co.uk/ Custom Lawn Care - Tel: 01780 753575 www.customlawncare.co.uk/ Fentons of Bourne - Tel: 01778 560466 www.fentonsofbourne.co.uk/ Welland Valley Timber - Tel: 01780 7657674 www.wellandvalleytimber.co.uk/ Waterside Garden Centre - www.watersidegardencentre.co.uk/ Lark Field Professional Gardening Service – Tel: 07971 526557 / 01780 444721 Email: larkfieldgardening@yahoo.com

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19/03/2015 16:41

MOST OF US DON’T SPARE A THOUGHT FOR CAR FINANCE UNTIL WE FIND OUT WE COULD HAVE SAVED MONEY

“My wife and I sincerely appreciate your responsiveness and the way you conduct business. We shall certainly be recommending your company to others as it’s been a pleasure to work with people who know the meaning of efficiency.”

Keith & Linda from Wothorpe on financing their Range Rover Evoque

Willoughby House, 2 Broad Street, Stamford We’re here for you: 8am until 8pm, 7 days a week 01780 763836

Authorised and Regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority

All of our orangeries & conservatories are available in a range of styles, materials and colours to compliment your home, whether it be traditional or contemporary.

Orangeries & Conservatories by

Orangeries . Conservatories . Windows . Doors . Verandas Visit our showhome at:

Ketton Design House, 63 High Street, Ketton, Rutland, PE9 3TE Mon-Fri 9am - 5pm, Weekends by appointment only

Auburn Hill 01780 400500 www.ahorangeries.co.uk

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UPDATES MONEY SAVING TIPS FOR CAR BUYERS: Top 5 Benefits of Using a Finance Broker, with Charles & Dean 3. Clarity “Car buyers can make substantial savings Stamford Living talks to Tom Perkins and As a broker, we fully discuss all appropriate on the cost of their finance by using a broker.”

Simon Grace at Charles & Dean to find finance options with our customers, out how using a finance broker can help including loans, leases and overdrafts. Our make your next car purchase more customers can then make an informed affordable. choice to ensure their finance package If you’ve ever dealt with car dealerships, suits their individual requirements. you’ll be familiar with their endeavours 4. Experience to entice you with a finance package that As a broker, we act in the best interests appears attractive on the surface, but of our customers and their individual often proves costly in the long run. financial circumstances. Our tailored With the help of the friendly team at approach improves our customers’ Charles & Dean, we’ve uncovered the Top chances of being successful in their car 5 Benefits of Using a Finance Broker - if finance application. you’d like to save money on financing your 5. Protection & Assurance next car, read on.

Tom and Simon at Charles & As a broker, we are members of the 1. Choice, Flexibility & Speed Dean’s office on Broad Street National Association of Commercial As a broker, we have immediate access Finance Brokers and we are regulated by to a variety of lenders, whereas car the Financial Conduct Authority, so our customers can be assured that dealerships are often restricted to using in-house lenders. This enables we will always act in their best interests. us to offer our customers more choice and better value for money on • Charles & Dean, Willoughby House, 2 Broad Street, Stamford. Tel: car finance than the majority of car dealerships.

01780 763836 (8am until 8pm, 7 days a week) 2. Competitive rates As a broker, we have well-established relationships with some of the Charles & Dean is a Stamford-based independent finance broker UK’s biggest banks, so we are able to negotiate considerably better rates that specialises in financing cars and other vehicles, as well as than most car dealerships, which means we can offer our customers agricultural machinery, fixed plant assets and property. substantial savings on their car finance.

Pots of Fun

www.visitstamford.uk

Cathy Cahill at Pots of Fun has recently re-located into Love Stamford in Broad St, and she is loving the new location, with its superb coffee shop, excellent facilities and range of traders that guarantees a regular footfall.

New business that have recently joined Love Stamford are: Stamford Sewing Shop, Sweet Shoppe Dreams (re-locating from Bath Row), Grayjo Turkish Gifts, Rutland Bag Company, The Little Scarf Company and Stamford Holistic Candles.

• Contact Cathy on 07834 459286 or visit www.potsoffunstamford.co.uk

Stamford has a new website for visitors and tourism (www.visitstamford.uk), now going live. One section of the new site is a business directory in which businesses have been listed free of charge. If you are a business, there may be additional details you would like to include and the site is keen to hear from you if this is so. Each entry is accompanied by a photograph of the premises, but again, you may well wish to have a different image. Or you may not yet be listed at all, so it’s worth checking.

By making sure that as many of Stamford’s businesses as possible appear on this new website, the town will be offering each visitor a very rich sample of the experiences available in and around Stamford, and showcasing our heritage, retail, accommodation, gastronomic and leisure attractions. • Please contact dsones@huntsbrewery.co.uk of any amendments or listings that you require

Healthy Hearing Healthy Hearing recently opened its second branch in Oakham, with the Mayor of Oakham carrying out the official opening duties. It’s a beautifully appointed branch, and includes a simple 2-minute hearing test if you just want a quick check to monitor your hearing.

Healthy Hearing is unique in combining access to the latest technologies with absolutely first-rate customer service. They are absolutely determined to find the right solution for each client, and it’s very much not a case of one size fits all. New technologies include the amazing Re-Sound Linx, which is a hearing aid made for your iPhone, iPad or iPad Touch which is personalised to your every need.

• Healthy Hearing Ltd, Cliff Road, Stamford, Lincolnshire LE15 7EB - Tel: 01780 759133 17b Gaol Street, Oakham, Rutland, LE15 6AQ - Tel: 01572 759555 www.healthyhearing.co.uk

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HOME & GARDEN

QKS Conservatories & QKS has just installed a new Orangery in its Cherryholt Lane showroom. It is a structure of great beauty and craftsmanship, which thoroughly merits a closer look

N

ICK Clipston, the owner, described some of the attractions of the Orangery: “Because it’s made of hardwood, you have the opportunity to create great detailing and features that allows it to blend in seamlessly with a period home. Or you could fashion it in a more contemporary style. And everything is bespoke, so you can have exactly the dimensions and finishes that you desire.

The Orangery in the show room is extra height, giving all the advantages of a classic period room whilst being flooded with light from the lantern lights above. Finished off with a pair of classic doors leading to the main house, it instantly becomes an integral part of your home.

There are also several other conservatories on show to take a look at, from the ultra modern to the traditional. QKS are also specialists in doors and windows, and no job is too small. And a complete after sales service is provided, all backed by a full 10 Year Guarantee.

• QKS Home, Unit 4/Priory Industries/Cherryholt La, Stamford PE9 2EQ Tel: 01780 756666 www.qks-ltd.co.uk

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s & Orangeries

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HE furniture and soft furnishings for the Orangery were kindly supplied by Hunters Interiors. Hunters can help no matter the size of the task; anything from a sample pot of paint to transforming a whole house. • Visit their delightful showroom at The Dairy, Copthill Farm Enterprises, Deeping Rd, Uffington, PE9 4TD Tel: 01780 757946 www.huntersinteriorsofstamford.co.uk

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Come and visit our NEW showroom

As seen at Spring Country Living

Images show just some of our kitchens on display

Es

c t Lo

Est

al Comp

an

1981 - 34 Years

y

!

• Over 30 room settings on display including 10 new kitchens

20 Years Restoration Experience

• Contemporary, modern, traditional & hand made bespoke kitchens • Discounts and free appliances depending on package

The areas LARGEST INDEPENDENT Kitchen Showroom

The Maltings, Barnack Road, Stamford, PE9 2NA T: 01780 756514 or 755855 E: sales@qksstamford.co.uk

www.qksstamford.co.uk

Room to Live Quality bespoke Orangeries & Garden Rooms designed to your specification

Tel: 01780 756666 www.qks-ltd.co.uk

Showroom: Cherryholt Road, Stamford, PE9 2EQ

Opening hours: Mon - Fri 9am - 5pm Sat 10am - 3pm

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EST.1967

SOFAS OF DISTINCTION

Visit our Stamford showroom, on Bath Row opposite Adnam’s Wine Store 01780 762579 WWW.DELCOR.CO.UK 35

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St Whites Stone Ltd

JONATHON HARTLE Y LIMIT E D

STONE MASONS & CARVERS

Our Services

For a quotation for a hand worked stone staircase Please contact Rosie/Richard on 01780 450350 or 07931 387615 Email stwhitesstone@btinternet.com • • • • • •

Design & Consultancy Gargoyles & Caricatures Steps & Staircases Fireplaces & Hearths Porticos & Steps Arches & Vaulting

• • • • • •

Lettering & Sculpture Stone Sourcing & Sawing New Build in Stone Stone Restoration Stone Mullion Windows Fountains & Bread Ovens

The Workshops Spanhoe Airfield Laxton, Nr Corby, NN17 3AT

Architectural Consultants Listed Buildings Consultants Building Management Building Surveyors Property Services

The Old Curiosity Shop 28 St Peter’s Street Stamford, Lincolnshire PE9 2PF Telephone 01780 757550 Mobile 07818 437098 / 07798 715989 After office hours 01780 481516 florence@jonathonhartley.com or jhartley@jonathonhartley.com

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Entries are now being taken for homes which would like to be displayed at the Move To The Country Show, ran in conjunction with

We have booked an even bigger stand this year so if you would like your home to be put in front of commuters and buyers looking to move out of London and the South East, there is no charge for this extra service.

THE CLOSING DEADLINE IS THE END OF APRIL.

THE SHOW IS TO BE HELD AT CHELSEA TOWN HALL ON WEDNESDAY 13TH MAY.

Melton Mowbray 01664 491610

Oakham

01572 757979

Uppingham 01572 821935

Stamford 01780 484555

Grantham

London

01476 855618

0207 8390888

London Platform

ONLY 1 HOUR AWAY

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19/03/2015 16:06

IT’S TIME TO GET

PERSONAL

WITH ROBINSONS

C1 1.0 68 Feel 3dr

CITROËN

DS3 1.6 VTi 120 Dstyle

Specification includes: Air Conditioning Height Adjustable Drivers Seat DAB Radio Bluetooth & USB Connectivity 7’’ Mirror Screen

Specification includes: Air Conditioning Radio/CD Player Bluetooth & USB Connectivity 16’’Alloy Wheels LED Daytime Running Lights

on Elect 4 Personal Finance Lease

on Elect 4 Personal Finance Lease

£129 DEPOSIT& £129 PER MONTH ALL INCLUSIVE FIXED PRICE M SERVICING FRO

£129

3 3 3

£199 DEPOSIT& £199 PER MONTH

Courtesy Car/Local Lifts Available Service Valet Included Experienced Citroën Technicians

WE WON’T BE BEATEN ON PRICE

Robinsons Citroën

Storeys Bar Road, Eastern industrial Estate, Peterborough, PE1 5YS - 01733 341628 www.robinsonspeterborough.citroen.co.uk Fuel consumption figures in mpg (l/100km) for the Citroën range are: Urban 34.4 (8.2) – 78.5 (3.6), Extra Urban 55.4 (5.1) – 88.3 (3.2), Combined 45.6 (6.2) – 83.1 (3.4). CO2 emissions are 163 - 87 g/km. MPG figures are official EU test figures for comparative purposes and may not reflect real driving results. Elect 4 Personal Finance

Lease offers apply to qualifying new vehicles ordered and delivered between 01/12/2014 - 30/06/2015. One initial advance rental will be required. Rentals shown are based on a 48 month contract with an agreed 6,000 miles per annum, excess mileage charges may apply if the agreed annual mileage is exceeded. Payment of the optional final rental extends the rental term (this does not transfer title of the vehicle) and requires an annual rental equivalent to one months’ rental. All rentals are inclusive of VAT. Finance subject to status. Over 18s only. Written quotations available on request from Citroën Financial Services, Quadrant House, Princess Way, Redhill RH1 1QA. Vehicles shown are for illustration purposes only. These offers supersede all previously advertised offers and are subject to availability. Prices correct at time of going to press. E&OE.

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MOTORING

BUYING SECOND HAND CARS Our motoring correspondent, Jonathan Craymer, explores the ins and outs of buying second hand

L

OOKING to change your car this spring?

Buying a brand-new vehicle is a luxury many of us can’t afford. This is especially so for younger drivers, or older drivers looking for maximum value – which more often than not means venturing into the second-hand market.

But that may feel like unfamiliar (or dare we say terrifying) territory, as often used car dealers don’t boast the best reputations in the world for treating customers fairly, and private sellers have been known to pull the odd fast one too.

So where do you start? Obviously it helps to do some research. If you’re a younger driver probably the most important thing is to find a category of vehicle you can afford to insure.

Or looked at another way, you need to find a vehicle that insurance companies will actually consider insuring you for, and won’t just turn you down flat.

For the cheapest possible insurance, you need something in Group 1. Extremely popular here are cars like the 1.0-litre Vauxhall Corsa, Fiat Panda 1.1 Active, or equally small-engined SEAT Mii, Volkswagen Up etc. You’ll find plenty of information on motoring and price comparison websites.

Such vehicles if you’re aged between 17 and 21 may typically cost £1500 a year to insure, though you may find quotes varying between £1400 and £2000. Looking for higher performance? For drivers in this age group, a 1.4 engine may take you into Groups 4 to 5, where you’ll be looking at paying between £2,000-£2,500. However a 1.6 with a bit more va-va-voom, is likely to sit in Groups 7-8 and a younger driver asking for cover in this category may find him or herself being shown the door by the insurance company or broker.

This salutary lesson on insurance for younger drivers may save a great deal of time as you browse some of the dozens of used car forecourts dotted around our region. Here a bit of research (including online) can be invaluable.

Clearly finding a dealer you can trust is a

Stuart George useful part of the process and at least one in this region – Kingfisher Cars - makes a point of offering the facility of obtaining a competitive insurance quote whilst you’re viewing a car, so you’ll at least know if it’s in the realms of your total budget.

When Stuart George set up Kingfisher in Peterborough five years ago, and more recently in Stamford – at the West Street Garage in Foundry Road – he was determined to do something to raise the public’s perception of used vehicle dealers. After a career spanning more than a quarter of a century in the motor trade, including 20 years with the Marshall group where he became regional director, he had a clear idea of how to do things differently.

“A lot of dealers buy cars from auctions without knowing much about their history and sell them on,” says Stuart. “But for me building reputation and trust was the most important thing. So we don’t get any cars from auctions.

Instead all our vehicles are genuine part exchanges from franchised dealers, which means we know something of each vehicle’s history, the previous owner and the kind of use it’s had.

“We then get each vehicle independently checked by a respected repair facility – in the case of our new Stamford site this is done at West Street garage itself – and we get every

Clock & Watch Restoration and Repair Robert Loomes MBHI FRSA 4, St Mary’s Hill, Stamford PE9 2DP 01780 481319

Member of The British Watch and Clock Maker’s Guild (Founded 1907)

www.clockrepairer.co.uk

vehicle HPI checked to make sure there’s no outstanding finance, that it’s not stolen or perhaps most importantly hasn’t been involved in a major accident.”

All his vehicles are offered with an AA warranty, a service, a fresh MoT - and specific attention is paid to tyres and brakes. Clearly wherever there are safety issues, if there are any concerns over the longevity of such components, they’re replaced.

“The HPI check is one of the most vital components for anyone looking to buy what I call a ‘proper’ used-car. It must be incredibly upsetting for anyone who’s bought a used car, to find the finance company which still owns it, wants it back. Another thing to be wary of is whether the vehicle has been imported.

There may be nothing wrong with such a vehicle, but if a buyer might want to trade it in for something else further down the line and dealers can’t value it because it’s an ‘odd’ model for the UK, its true value may be far less than they thought.”

More than 40% of Stuart’s customers are in the aforementioned 17 to 21 age bracket, and another 40% comes from the 65 to 95-yearold group. “I sold a car to 90-year-old just last week,” he grins.

As someone who’s bought many second-hand cars in my time for my own use, I know that needs change. Someone who last time round was looking for best-possible fuel consumption, may this time be seeking something with maximum comfort, or load space, a particular engine type or even a certain look to suit their temperament or lifestyle. Or just something a bit newer.

“Everybody wants low mileage,” adds Stuart.

“But high mileage vehicles aren’t necessarily something to avoid. The key thing is having a full service history, getting the vehicle fully checked mechanically, and of course finding a dealer you can trust.”

• www.kingfishercars.com

Clear Ridge Veterinary Surgery Robert Pontefract B.V.M.S., M.R.C.V.S., Certificate in Veterinary Ophthalmology

• Comprehensive Diagnostic and Surgical Facilities (Doppler Ultrasound, Operating Microscope, ECG etc) • Caring & Dedicated Health Care for Your Companion Animal • 24 Hour Emergency Service

Member of The British Horological Institute (Founded 1858)

House visits, all domestic clocks repaired, high grade repairs to all makes of watches.

Insured, qualified, guaranteed

• Free Parking

43 Empingham Road, Stamford

01780 764333 STAMFORD LIVING APRIL 2015

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LOCAL MUSIC

Summer Festivals around here

Georgie Fenn looks at the big music festivals that you should be going to this year…

Standon Calling 31st July - 2nd August

Latitude 16th – 19th July

Cambridge Folk Festival 30th July – 2nd August

T

O

L

his year celebrates the 10th anniversary of Hertfordshire’s Festival, Standon Calling. This festival is family-friendly and one of the best medium-sized festivals in the East of England. Set in the beautiful British countryside, you can relax at this festival listening to some of the best established and emerging talents such as Basement Jaxx, Ella Eyre, Little Dragon and The Dandy Warhols.

Other entertainment includes a Dancing and DJ masterclass, Flashmob, Duck racing and there are plenty of facilities for the family and children including baby massage and yoga!

Boutique camping is available if putting up a tent and whacking out a pocket rocket isn’t your thing, you can book tickets and camping on their website: www.standon-calling.com

Basement Jaxx Photo: Jean-Luc Brouard

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ddly it is also Latitude’s 10th anniversary this year! Set in the picturesque Henham Park in Southwold (around 2 hours from Stamford) this festival is also family friendly but is a lot larger than Standon Calling with the line-up including; ALT-J, James Blake, Laura Marling, Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds and The Vaccines. For the kids activities include everything from pond dipping and astronomy to pizza-making so they are sure to be kept busy. Tickets and information regarding camping is on the website: www. latitudefestival.com

ast year celebrated 50 successful years of the Cambridge Folk Festival and it is still going strong. This makes it one of the most famous and longest running folk festivals in the world, attracting around 10,000 people most of whom return each year. This festival sets its standards high and wants the best for its performers as well as the audience. This means pristine toilets (you will have to go to believe this is possible at a festival) food from around the world, craft, on site art and an area for youth to stay entertained in. If Organicism is your thing this festival was named ‘outstanding’ in the A Greener Festival awards. For more information and tickets visit the website: www.cambridgefolkfestival.co.uk

The Vaccines

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STAMFOR Gig Guide D APRIL

Who to se e and whe re to

see

them!

Stamford Art’s Cen tre Friday 10th April @ 7:3 0p and Ray G elato (all th m – Claire Martin O BE ings swing Friday 24th ) April @ 8p m- Ferocio (traditiona us Dog l Celtic folk music) Stamford Corn Exch ange Saturday 18 th April @ 7:30pm- T Brothers he Blues Experienc e (stage sh ow/concert ) Mama Liz ’s Sunday 5th April @ 4-6 pm – Ain’t A musical cocktail fo Misbehav in’, r all tastes…

Friday 24th .

April @ 8:3 0pm – The and Son o Houndogs f Gun (rock n roll) ILLUSTRATION BY LUCY WALTERS

The Cat Empire

Say Lou Lou

Shambala

The Secret Garden Party The Willow Festival 23rd- 26th July Peterborough 10th-12th July ossibly one of the closest but most

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overlooked festivals in this area, The Secret Garden Party or SGB as it is known down with the kids actually takes place in Abbots Ripton near Huntingdon, only around an hour from Stamford! The location is part of the grounds of a Georgian farm house which has its own lake and landscaped gardens. The SGB support the charity CALM (the campaign against living miserably) which helps men who are considering suicide and tries to prevent it. The music is varied and includes bands such as Jungle, The Cat Empire, Say Lou Lou so there is usually something there for everyone. If this sounds like your kind of festival visit their website: www.secretgardenparty.com

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hy not support your local festival in Peterborough this summer… Bands and entertainment have not been announced just yet but if you keep a close eye on their website, I’m sure it won’t be long until they release the information you’ve all been waiting for. It will be the 10th anniversary of the festival this year and the event is FREE which means everyone can go, they accept donations to their event on the website www.willowfestival.org.uk if you would like to contribute to the event, if not just turn up and have a great time and support them with some good crowd action!

Shambala Festival 27th-30th August

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don’t know what it is about the word ‘Shambala’ but once I say it I start singing ‘Shambalalalalalaa’. I feel this emulates the festival – loads of fun and a bit quirky.

Described as taking place in ‘a secret location in the heart of Northamptonshire’ this festival is not to be missed. Shambala is not only a music festival but also includes live comedy acts, circus acts that will make your eyes pop, interactive theatre and beautifully decorated venues. There are such a variety of acts but they include country singer Tina C, poetry and speaking from Kate Tempest and there is even a herbal first aid tent in case you come to any harm! If this sounds like your thing visit their website for more information www.shambalafestival.org

Kate Tempest

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OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES

Sacrewell Farm & Activity Centre

“I have always had in mind the creation of a sound, practical enterprise, preserving what is best in our country way of life, and based on sound, practical farming, as all country life must be.” William Scott Abbott

It’s all happening down on the farm, discovers Alysia Anderson, as Sacrewell celebrates 50 years as a centre for agricultural education and completes restoration of its historic mill

FARMING THROUGH THE AGES Sacrewell’s history can be traced back to Stone Age times but it was first farmed by the Romans. Villas, a corn drier and a storage building from 43AD were unearthed here and the Romans were the first to harness water power to mill grain on the site. The location was ideal: beside a spring (the ‘sacred well’, now the River Nene) and close to Ermine Street (now the A1), the trade route from London to Lincoln. Centuries later, Sacrewell was probably one of three local mills mentioned in the Domesday Book. It was owned by the St Medard family who introduced a rotation system to provide food all year round: one field was sown with winter crops, the second with spring crops while the third lay fallow. In Tudor times Sacrewell was owned by Sir John Russell, Earl of Bedford and a close advisor to Henry VIII. As Lord of the Manor he had more than 20 tenant farmers, including a miller, and was instrumental in introducing new farming techniques and crops such as clover to improve the soil. A new watermill, house and Lodge Farm were completed in 1755 and by 1760 the Industrial Revolution reached Sacrewell. Machinery was introduced, water and steam power replaced some workers and the number of tenant farmers reduced to just three. By the 1800s, although heavy horses were still used to pull carts and ploughs, tractors were starting to appear and steam-powered threshing machines were commonplace.

THE WILLIAM SCOTT ABBOTT TRUST During WWI, a young engineer named William Scott Abbott was injured and sent home from the front line. He took over a tenancy at Sacrewell and in 1926 started large-scale milk production, pioneering dairy herds instead of the popular beef cattle. In 1929 Abbott bought the entire farm, which included 550 acres and a dozen properties, many in Wansford.

He added over a thousand hens and drafted in Land Army girls to farm the land during WWII. Abbott died in 1959 and his widow Mary achieved, in 1964, his dream of a Trust to promote agricultural education.

Abbott’s nephew, David Powell, took over the farm’s management and preservation of the mill until his death in 2012. He opened Sacrewell to the public as a Country Centre and working farm in the 1980s. Decades on, in step with growing public interest in organic produce, Riverford Organic Farms became the tenant farmer in 2007. Riverford now turns its harvests into 8,500 organic veggie boxes delivered weekly to regional homes.

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MILL MEMORIES The main reason for the demise of milling in Britain was the repeal in 1846 of the Corn Laws which had protected cereal producers from cheaper foreign imports. Sacrewell’s 18th-century watermill is hence a rare remnant of our agricultural past. Its restoration, including replacing wooden sections of the impressive wheel, is nearing completion thanks to a £1.4 million grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund. Marketing manager Megan Allen said: “The mill was once an essential part of the community and we aim to bring it back to that: making and selling flour and bread and adding it to our educational portfolio, teaching people about where their food comes from.” Skilled millwrights are restoring the Grade II listed structure which includes a pond, bakery, mill house and gardens.

FAMILY FUN Sacrewell’s family-friendly attractions include a campsite, playground, tractor rides, nature trails, hedgerow maze and numerous animal residents, including Shire horses that appeared in the film War Horse.

Children can hand-feed rare breeds such as British Lop pigs, Lincoln Longwool sheep and Pygmy goats or pet smaller animals in the Animal Village. Sacrewell recently invested £250,000 into expanding the play barn, once the original grainstore, installing farm-themed soft play equipment while keeping the mini-tractors so beloved of small visitors. A kiosk here provides refreshments or you can enjoy locally sourced fare and freshly brewed coffee in the refurbished Origin8 café. Sit inside or out with views over the Cambridgeshire countryside or relax in the new sofa corner, with free WiFi. The café also provides catering for children’s parties in the playbarn. If you fancy staying the night, there are tent and caravan pitches with electricity. Rates include entry to the farm and you’ll find fresh produce and camping staples in the Three Little Ducks shop, alongside gifts and toys. To find out more visit www.sacrewell.org.uk EVENTS Lamb and kid feeding: until 19 April Spring Fair 3-4 May National Mills Weekend 9 May Sheep shearing 16/17 May Wildlife Week 23-31 May Robin Hood by Cambridge Touring Theatre 13 June Woodcarving courses with resident carver Glyn Mould: various dates throughout the year

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Country lifestyle since 1905

robinsonsofstamford.com

 01780 755378  Open: Mon - Sat 9am - 5pm

Design & Branding: bravecreative.co.uk

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WEDDINGS

Planning a Wedding Top Tip: Don’t try and do it all yourself….use a professional wedding planner for all or part of the lead up to your big day. It not only saves you time to enjoy your engagement but will save you money in the long run

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HERE are numerous preconceptions about hiring a Wedding Planner. Many TV programmes and films portray ‘Wedding Planners’ as flamboyant, bossy individuals who make the day about themselves and ignore the wishes of the bride and groom. In reality, this image is a total misconception, especially when it comes to the duo behind Serenity Weddings. Selena and Laura have years of experience in planning weddings and the secret to their success is that they design ‘the big day’ around lifestyles and passions creating an event that truly reflects the couple’s personalities.

Says Selena, “Once the couple have ‘engaged’ with us, we have informal conversations where we love to hear all about their lifestyles and hobbies. It’s from this information that we can get a good understanding about their likes and dislikes. We want to get right inside their lives and understand what they do and do not want on their big day. It’s not about us or anyone else, for that matter, it is about what the couple want and desire; after all it is their day”.

Both Selena and Laura are experts in planning and scheduling. Says Laura, “It’s what we have done throughout our past careers. We make sure everything is in place and that everyone knows what they are doing and what is expected of them, from suppliers to groomsmen”.

So how can a wedding planner save you money in the long term?

Serenity Weddings gives you peace of mind by ensuring you that any savings made via their loyal suppliers are passed directly onto their couples. “We do not take commission from our suppliers but, because we have worked with our suppliers on many events over the years, we receive discounts due to volume. We are also very open with our couples; there are no surprise costs”, explains Laura.

Selena and Laura are both local women who have an impressive knowledge of the area. Not only can they source excellent suppliers but they can assist your ‘out of area’ guests with everything that they should need from accommodation to where to visit and the best places to eat.

So what are the top tips that Serenity Weddings would give to their couples? Says Selena, “All of the bridal magazines and online wedding feature blogs are great for tips but this is some of the advice we like to

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give our brides: • The first thing we tell every couple is, This Is Your Day. You cannot please everyone, so ensure you are happy with what you have planned.

• Always choose from at least three suppliers, cost is always a consideration, but also ask yourself, does their company personality and ethics match yours?

• Yes there are wedding trends and colours set every year, but if ‘Marsala’ (Pantones Colour of the Year 2015) doesn’t float your boat then go for what suits you. When you have made your choice of colour, make sure it compliments the venue decoration. You’ve got to look at your wedding pictures for a long time to come!

• At the last minute, things can change… it’s not a problem - a solution can always be found.

• Make time the week before you get married

• Contact details: selena@serenityholdings.co.uk Tel: 07710 962964 www.serenity-weddings.com

“Selena and Laura have years of experience in planning weddings and the secret to their success is that they design ‘the big day’ around lifestyles and passions creating an event that truly reflects the couple’s personalities.” to go out on a date together - this is your last time as unweds.

• 84% of English couples want to retain the wedding traditions but try to add a twist to make the day special and unique to you.”

Serenity Weddings offer a range of services that will suit all budgets. From the moment you get engaged to the time you say good night to your wedding guests. Their bespoke portfolio is guaranteed to be personalised to your individual requirements.

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SHOPPING

Come on down to Westgate Arcade The Oculist Opticians

On Thursday April 23, shops in Peterborough’s Westgate Arcade are hosting a day and evening of special promotions and events to raise awareness of this hub of independent businesses in the heart of the city

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HE Westgate Arcade Experience has been organised by Gerry Sondh, optometrist and director of The Oculist Opticians. “It’s about creating a feel good factor and highlighting the fact that the Westgate Arcade should be celebrated as a hub of individual businesses,” says Gerry.

“We host events in The Oculist on a regular basis, but it is great that so many businesses are getting involved this time. I hope that customers will walk along the Arcade and find colour, vibrancy and live music!” With a planned revamp expected to go ahead soon on the Arcade shopfronts, and the Handmade Burger Company opening in the former Old Still premises in mid-April, the future is looking bright. Eleven stores have signed up to take part in the Westgate Arcade Experience on April 23:

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Gerry Sondh and his team will be hosting a Sunglasses Party between 4pm and 9pm. The Oculist offers a fantastic collection of top brands, including Ray-Ban, Mykita, Orgreen, Dior, Prada, Tom Ford, Oliver Peoples, Face a Face, Mykita Mylon, Etnia and Maui Jim. Representatives from those brands will be in store to offer advice and to reveal the latest looks (there will be a choice of around 1000 models) and Gerry, Rob and Hannah will be offering qualified dispensing advice. A live band will make the party swing, and The Oculist signature drinks will be served.

A 10 per cent discount will apply, offering a great saving on designer looks.

• The Oculist, 24 Westgate Arcade, Queensgate Centre, Peterborough PE1 1PY Tel: 01733 555621 www.theoculist.com

Clues There’ll definitely be a party atmosphere at Clues, the menswear shop at the head of the Arcade, with a local DJ on hand from 4pm -9pm to play some tunes. Owner Gary is offering 20 per cent off full price items, which include brands such as SikSilk, Weekender Bender, G-Star and UCLA. “Pop in and have a few beers and a chat,”says Gary, who is also offering entry into a giveaway prize draw to those who purchase on the night.

• Clues, 2 Westgate Arcade, Peterborough Tel: 01733 703546

Swivels Sandwich Bar As the longest standing business in the Arcade, Swivels has been a fixture for 28 years under the ownership of Jim Edwards. Serving fresh sandwiches, toasties, jacket potatoes and drinks at keen prices, Jim also has a free city centre delivery service on orders over £5. He’ll be taking part on April 23 with a St George’s Day theme, offering quintessentially English sandwich fillings such as fresh salmon and roast beef. Special prices include a medium roll for £1.75. The shop will be decorated, and open until 9pm on the day. “It’s a great idea to run this event. People often use the Arcade as a cut through, but I think it will slow them down and allow them to see and appreciate what we have here,” he says.

• Swivels, 5 Westgate Arcade, Peterborough PE1 1PY Tel: 01733 314234

Maysons This designer clothing store for men offers labels by Ralph Lauren, Paul Smith, Hugo Boss, Diesel, Michael Kors and Vivienne Westwood. Owners Chris James and Sean Taylor, are offering a 15 per cent discount across the store, and, if you need advice, a personal shopper to help you select your spring/summer wardrobe. There will be drinks on arrival. “A lot of retailers are doing good things in Westgate Arcade,” says Chris James. “We have everything here: you can come along and buy some lovely clothes, get your hair done, have a tattoo, buy some great glasses from The Oculist and a sandwich from Swivels!”

• Maysons, 27 Westgate Arcade Peterborough

›

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THIS IS A

opportunity to try, and buy from the complete 2015 sunglasses collections of many of the world’s leading brands. Come along and

the Oculist Opticians... Probably the coolest opticians in the world. Along with friendly expert opticians, we’ll have every model, in every colour, and every size from the brands below - that’s thousands of sunglasses!

S U N G L A S S E S PA R T Y THURSDAY 23.04.15. 4-9PM

INVITE ONLY! REGISTER YOUR INTEREST HERE

info@theoculist.com

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01733

555 621

24 Westgate Arcade

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Westgate Arcade Event BUY 1 GET 1 HALF PRICE (min spend £10)

T: 01733 315133 M: 07901 770365 E: cindy@bbsbrowbar.com W: www.bbsbrowbar.com Threading • Tinting • HD Brows • Lashes • Manicure Pedicure • Facials • Massage • Waxing • Make-up

Men’s Independent Fashion in Peterborough 2 Westgate Arcade, Peterborough Tel: 01733 703546

•G Star •Duck and Cover •UCLA •Sik Silk •Criminal Damage •07 •Luke •Weekender Offender Looking forward to seeing you on 23rd April – 20% off full price items all day

The R ight Ti m e 1 5 % DI S C O U N T ON A L L STO C K Lyle & Scott, Armani, Barbour, Ralph Lauren,

Watch batteries. straps, key cutting - buy one get one half price.

Belstaff, Vivienne Westwood, Michael Kors

Second hand and pre-owned jewellery.

Hugo Boss, Jeffrey West, Diesel, Paul Smith,

Gold bought - cash on spot.

True Religion, Replay 27 The Arcade, Westgate, Peterborough, Cambs, PE1 1PY

Tel: 01733 342347

23 West gate Arc a de, Peterb orou g h Tel: 01733 555499

A warm, welcoming, friendly, family run salon. Creative, skillful, fashionable hairdressing with great customer service 15 The Arcade, Westgate, Peterborough. PE1 1PY Tel: 01733 358825 www.pkai.co.uk

1 7 W E S T G AT E A R C A D E TEL: 01733 349177

10% DISCOUNT WITH THIS ADVERT. TERMS AND CONDITIONS APPLY.

Fun all day from 9.30am to 8pm on Thursday 23rd April.

Scarf Tying Masterclass boutique@style-accessories.co.uk

ENTRY INTO PRIZE DRAW WITH PURCHASE PRIZES INCLUDE • £150 Lovelinks voucher • £150 Story Voucher • Men’s Aagaard Leather Bracelet & bead • My Imenso silver locket with chain and insert • Nordahl Jewellery set worth £100.

• Free pair of silver earrings with Nordahl purchase over £30

T H E P L A C E T O S H O P F O R B E A U T I F U L P I E C E S AT B R I L L I A N T P R I C E S

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SHOPPING

Tahlias Closet

Phone Trader A genuinely useful shop where you can get a cracked screen repaired within the hour, have a phone unlocked, sort out any software issues, buy a new phone case, or trade in your old phone for cash. On the day of the event, the shop is open 9.30 to 5.30 with 10 per cent off all repairs, and £5 off cases and accessories. Manager Zabair Hussain looks forward to welcoming new customers and existing ones.

• Phone Trader, 1 Westgate Arcade, Peterborough PE1 1PY Tel: 01733 201063

If you’re looking for some sparkle, need a special present or want to cheer yourself up, this jewellery and fashion boutique is what you need. Natasha has created an inviting space with jewellery that starts at just £3, in a huge variety of styles and colours. She also sells a capsule clothing collection and accessories.

On the day, Natasha is offering 10 per cent off on non-sale items with a pair of earrings free with purchases (terms and conditions apply). If you want styling advice, bring in your dress or top or a photo of what you’re planning to wear and Natasha can guide you. “I really hope it raises awareness of what is here,” says Natasha, whose business is also strong online. “People are still surprised when they walk through!”

• Tahlias Closet, 6 Westgate Arcade, Peterborough PE1 1PY Tel: 01733 890599 www.tahlias-closet.co.uk

The Right Time Open from 9am -5pm on April 23, there will be 15 per cent off all stock over £20 for the special event. This is a great shop for watches, watch straps, watch batteries, key cutting and there is also a selection of pre-owned jewellery. If you want to sell any gold jewellery, this is a reliable place to head for.

• The Right Time, 7 Westgate Arcade, Peterborough PE1 1PY

Stephen Diggle Goldsmiths Pop into Stephen Diggle, “the Arcade’s only fine jeweller, specialising in gold silver and platinum,” according to assistant manager Alex Harris, and you’ll find a selection of tempting offers between 4pm -8pm on April 23. Bring in your jewellery and there is a free polishing service in the on-site workshop. The popular Nomination range is worth checking out. It’s more affordable than some of the other leading bead brands, and offers a tile based linked chain. The business also specialises in bespoke items and wedding rings and staff are happy to talk you through the options.

• Stephen Diggle Goldsmiths, 8 Westgate Arcade, Peterborough Tel: 01733 345757

Pkai Hair Between 5pm -8pm, the unisex hair salon will be joining the celebrations with an evening of free advice, a chance to chat to colour experts working with Wella Couture Colour, food and drinks, discounts on products and chilled music played by a DJ Jo G from The Sunday Chill Lounge. “Come in and see us, everyone is welcome,” says co-owner Lisa Wan. “It’s great to see the businesses in the Arcade working together as a collective,” she adds. “It allows us to get together, share costs and really promote what we have here.”

• PKai Hair, 15 Westgate Arcade, Peterborough PE1 1PY Tel: 01733 358825 www.pkaihair.co.uk

Style This successful jewellery and accessories boutique has a selection to suit every occasion and the party experience will be going on all day, with big names such as LoveLinks, Nordahl and My iMenso, plus bags and scarves. The boutique is offering a 10 per cent reduction, when you show the ad in this month’s Nene Living, and when you make a purchase, you’ll be entered into a prize draw, with prizes including a £150 LoveLinks voucher, a £150 Story voucher and a My iMenso locket, insert and chain. If you spend over £30 on the Nordahl range, receive a pair of free sterling silver earrings.

• Style, 17 Westgate Arcade, Peterborough Tel: 01733 893393

BB’s Brow Bar Buy one beauty treatment and get another half price (minimum spend £10) at this walk in beauty salon. Choose from manicures, pedicures, waxing, HD brows, facials, lashes and lots more.

• BB’s Brow Bar, 26 Westgate Arcade, Peterborough www.bbsbrowbar.com STAMFORD LIVING APRIL 2015

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UPDATES

Armor Shutters & Manor Windows A

rmor Shutters & Manor Windows offers a first-class service to the local market, offering a whole range of products to the residential and commercial market, including: roller garage doors, security shutters, security grilles, removable bars, patio awnings; windows, doors, soffits & guttering, porches and conservatories.

Pay a visit to the business in Stanground in Peterborough, and you will immediately discover that this company has many points of distinction that makes it stand out from the crowd: • It’s a very well established family-run business, and has a close-knit team of staff • There is a strong focus on quality at the right price • All the products are tailored to individual customer needs; this is possible because all the doors and windows are manufactured on site, by the same team that will then come and install them; this ‘seamless’ offering facilitates a very high standard of service • They have an incredible range of products and colour-ways, all of the best quality • They pride themselves on after-care service.

Proof of the pudding is that 75%+ of their referrals are by word of

Silhouette Soft Non-Surgical Facelift The Cosmetic Clinic offers a tailor made procedure to lift all areas of the face, jowls, neck etc. he dissolvable threads are made of polylactic acid which is completely biodegradable and acts on the deeper layers of the skin and naturally stimulates the body so that it produces its own collagen.

This action, which continues over time, apparently helps increase the volume of saggy areas and restore shapeliness to the face gradually and naturally. It’s an extremely safe and effective technique to redefine the faces of patients looking for ways to combat sagging jowls and loss of

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mouth; and many major local businesses, including the George of Stamford (the courtyard awning), use them.

They are FENSA registered, which means that windows can be installed without you having to refer it to building regulations.

Roller garage doors are a particularly interesting product; as well as providing convenience (automatic opening), they take up less space than a traditional garage door and give that bit of extra width and height that might be vital if you have recently switched to a larger SUV car.

• Manor House, 67 South St, Stanground, Peterborough, PE2 8EX Tel: 0800 136773 www.manorwindows.net

volume in the cheek area - but who don’t want surgery.

It produces an extremely natural-looking result and leaves the face completely mobile, which is very important in achieving the discreet effect of this unique anti-ageing procedure.

The Silhouette Soft threadlift should only be undertaken by a doctor or surgeon.

Miss Butt opened her first clinic 18 years ago and is a consultant surgeon who is highly qualified and exceptionally experienced in all aesthetic procedures.

• For more information or to book a consultation with Miss Butt please contact the Cosmetic Clinic in Peterborough on 01733 310090

The National Motorhome Show 2015 Celebrate 25 years of the UK’s largest outdoor motorhome show at Peterborough! he famous ‘Peterborough Show’ returns to the East of England Showground on 17-19 April 2015 for its 25th year at the venue.

The National Motorhome Show is not only the UK’s leading outdoor motorhome event but also the largest, with over 300 exhibitors bringing more than 800 new and pre-owned models. With the UK’s leading dealers attending, you can browse an unbeatable variety of motorhomes featuring everything from compact van conversions and entry-level coachbuilts, through to the most luxurious coachbuilts, A-class ranges and American RVs. The hugely successful ‘Campervan Corner’ also returns for 2015, once again showcasing a wide range of campervans and conversion vehicles in honour of this rapidly growing trend in the motorhoming world. Not to mention the huge range of specialist accessories, gadgets and gifts that will available at the Show, from satellite navigation and solar panels to reversing cameras, outdoor leisurewear, speciality foods and more – a true one-stop-shop for your hobby and lifestyle!

Admission rates are adults £8 and children are FREE. This includes FREE parking and a FREE show guide. The exhibition area will be open daily at 9.30am – closing at 5pm Friday and Saturday and 4.30pm on Sunday.

• To book call us on 01778 391123 (Mon-Fri 9am-5pm) or visit www.nationalmotorhomeshow.co.uk

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Grab an oar for Thorpe Hall Hospice N

eighbours, community groups, gym buddies and friends are being urged to jump in a boat to raise money for Sue Ryder Thorpe Hall Hospice. But not just any boat – a dragon boat.

The hospice in Peterborough is the new official charity for the 2015 Peterborough Dragon Boat Festival which will take place at Peterborough Rowing Club at Thorpe Meadows on Saturday, June 13.

The dragon boats, qualified helms and all racing equipment will be provided. Fancy dress is optional and all money raised on the day will go towards the Thorpe Hall Capital Appeal.

• For further information on raising a crew please visit www.dragonboatfestivals. co.uk/peterborough or call the Thorpe Hall fundraising team on 01733 225999.

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Swivels Sandwich Bar St Georges Day specials in the Westgate Arcade on 23rd April

Guaranteed Personal Service from a Local Family Business

All rolls, any fillings all day Medium £1.75 Large £2.25 Meal Deals, Oven Baked Potatoes, Salad Boxes, Toasties, Soups, Cakes and Fruit. Buffets & Local Delivery available Swivels, 5 Westgate Arcade, Westgate, Peterborough PE1 1PY Tel: 01733 314234 www.swivelssandwichbar.co.uk

Westgate Arcade Event 10% OFF all repairs for this day iPhone 5 screen repairs usually £45, NOW £40.50. Repairs within an hour!

For this day we will be doing an offer of all accessories for £5 *excluding tablet cases* • Batteries, cases, screen protectors, headphones, bluetooth speakers, data cables, car plugs etc, mobile phones and tablets.

• Water damage repairs (2 hours service) • We buy all smart phones - Instant cash • Phones unlocked (majority unlocked within an hour) Branches in Kings Lynn, Spalding, Boston, Grantham, Kettering & Lincoln Westgate Arcade, Peterborough Tel: 01733 201063 Open 9.30am-5.30pm

Snow Designs & Interiors.

Interiors Emporium offering an eclectic mix of British contemporary & vintage homeware & Gifts.

FREE FITTING Windows, Doors, Patio Doors, French Doors, Conservatories, Car Ports, All Weather Canopies, Patio Awnings, Fascia & Guttering, Roller Garage Doors, Roller Shutters, Sliding Grilles, Security Bars, Steel Shutters, Shop Fronts, Domestic and Commercial Systems, Mesh Grilles, Venetian Blinds, Vertical Blinds, Roller Blinds

FREE ENERGY UPGRADE

Find us at...

32 St Mary’s Street, Stamford, PE9 2DS.

Tel. 01780 751551

www.snowdesignsandinteriors.com

NEW SHOWROOM 67 South Street, Stanground, Peterborough Open Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm

Telephone 01733 342888 www.manorwindows.net

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RE T RE AT S

INTRODUCING

RE T RE AT S

Laid-back luxury holiday retreats in Norfolk BAREFOOT RETREATS is passionate about marketing luxury holiday properties that are individual and unique, from cottage hideaways, to beautiful boltholes, coastal gems and rural retreats.

AS OUR GUESTS you will have the keys to some of the most

beautiful and individual homes in Norfolk; providing a distinct laid-back luxury holiday experience ensuring you feel at home from the moment you arrive, until you return the keys. You’ll have access to our exclusive concierge service, ideal if you’re organising a special celebration or want to experience something different on your holiday. And once you’ve chosen your property, you’ll receive a Barefoot guide ensuring you have all the information you could need to enjoy your precious time away.

Luxury properties

AS A HOME OWNER we will maximise the earning potential of your second home by managing all the marketing, PR and guest liaison for you. Sharing your holiday home should be as easy and enjoyable as the holidays our guests will enjoy there and we will make it our job to look after your home as if it were our own, providing you with a fully managed service.

WHY BAREFOOT? As

our guests you can look forward to a boutique hotel experience with the freedom of self catering. All our properties feature a welcome hamper, Barefoot branded bathrobes, slippers and beautiful linens.

If you’re looking for a wonderful holiday experience or are considering marketing your home and are seeking a fresh and innovative approach, please call us on 01485 512245 or visit our website www.barefootretreats.co.uk.

Emma Ta g g Director

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Amazing places

Helen Millin Director

Unique experiences

Barefoot Norfolk Ltd T/A Barefoot Retreats, The Boardwalk, High Street, Thornham, Norfolk, PE36 6LX 01485 512245 • enquiries@barefootretreats.co.uk • www.barefootretreats.co.uk

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SPORTS UPDATES

2015 Rat Race Dirty Weekend: calling all sports fans!

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,000 extreme sportspeople will descend on Stamford on 9 May for the 2015 Rat Race Dirty Weekend – and local people are being asked to get involved in the action.

Rat Race is offering people from the local area a chance to be a part of the day by helping to supervise the 200 obstacles which will make up the epic 20-mile course through Burghley Park and across the surrounding countryside. The Rat Race Crew will be right at the heart of the action – and play a crucial role in encouraging the thousands of racers around the gruelling course.

To recognise their key role in the event, all of the support crew will be rewarded with the choice of two

benefit packages for taking part in the 2015 Rat Race: the Dirty Weekend Value Package, which includes: weekend premium camping, an after-party ticket and £30 worth food vouchers (among other goodies), or £100 credit to take part in any future Rat Race event.

And if all that wasn’t reason enough to join in with the 2015 Rat Race – the event will climax with headlining performances from Irish rock sensations Ash and the Craig Charles Funk & Soul DJ Set at the after-party.

• For more information on joining the 2015 Rat Race team email ratracecrew@outlook.com for further details. Applicants must be 16 or over.

Stamford AFC Football Development Centre C

hildren of all ages and abilities are welcome to participate in the inclusive environment promoted by the club where their creativity can flourish.

This includes: • Saturday morning club for 2-6 year olds • Weekly training and matches for approximately 200 registered boys and girls between 7 and 18 years old • Management and engagement of approximately 30 adult volunteers to oversee the operation of 15 teams and run the club.

• Provision of half term holiday clubs for the Community • Summer Saturday morning pitch up and play community activity • School and college football coaching programmes • Integrated Futsal club to complement all formats of mainstream football provision.

The club has attracted a number of quality local business partners enabling subscriptions to be maintained at a level that is affordable for all.

The home of the Club is the modern Borderville Sports Centre, that features a

Building for the future with Stamford Town Cricket Club F

orward thinking Stamford Town Cricket Club will again this year be investing heavily in their thriving junior section.

The Uffington Road club run mixed junior teams at Under 9, Under 11, Under 13 and Under 15 age groups, with the focus on enjoyment, opportunity and excellent coaching for all abilities.

This year the club will run its junior summer coaching sessions on Friday nights, while the fully licensed clubhouse bar will be open for parents, guardians and families who may like to

full size floodlit artificial grass pitch that can be subdivided into various configurations of mini pitch for younger players; an indoor sports hall and real grass pitches that will be commissioned in summer 2015.

• Player recruitment for season 2015/16 commences in April 2015 and any interested players, parents or volunteers can contact Guy Walton for more information on 07764 630343 or email guy.walton@stamfordafc.net.

stay for a drink on a summer’s evening. Senior players will also be in attendance to help with coaching and pass on their expertise to juniors, promoting the Stamford Town ‘One Club’ ethos.

It is testament to the family environment within the club that many current senior players have worked their way up through the junior ranks in to the five senior teams which are run

by Stamford Town. Even as juniors grow up and go away to University, the club still see many of them return regularly to play cricket and attend club functions whenever they can.

The club are always on the lookout for new members of all ages. Anybody who would like to join the club or find out more can contact Stamford Town by these links: Junior Cricket: Paul Fox 07709 314124 Senior Cricket: Suneel Appan 07976 634638

Easter Excitement at Uppingham Summer School W

ith the Easter holidays nearly upon us, a number of you might be wondering how to keep the children entertained over the next few weeks… a few days with Uppingham Summer School could well be the perfect answer! On offer are various sports courses to help the energetic burn off lots of energy, whilst baking some Easter goodies or perfecting painting and drawing techniques will be ideal for those who prefer quieter pursuits.

A highlight this year is the new two-day Athletics camp. Run by James White, the camp will offer a full range of track and field events, including sprinting, hurdling, long jump, triple jump, high jump, shot put and javelin.

The course is aimed at 7 to 14 year olds and will provide an ideal opportunity for children to experience most of the athletics disciplines prior to the school season, as well as working on various training exercises to improve technique. Both proficient athletes and novices are welcome to attend.

Whether sporty or not, Uppingham Summer School is bound to have something your children will love doing during the holidays.

• For further details or to find out more, see www.uppinghamsummerschool.co.uk or phone 01572 820800.

Course dates and details: 7 - 10 April Easter Cricket 2 £168 7 - 10 April Tennis £168 13 - 14 April Athletics £85 STAMFORD LIVING APRIL 2015

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19/03/2015 17:03

F_BAR_8563 Stamford Living ad – Feb 2015 (Chater, Tixover, Braeburn)_Layout 1 12/02/2015 17:37 Page 1

Feel right at home with Barchester care homes across Stamford

New Home Now Open in Deeping St James!

We pride ourselves on independence, dignity and choice for the individuals we support. We look after people with a wide variety of care needs.

Our compassionate and caring staff make sure that everyone is treated as an individual and they have comfort, security and the best quality of life.

It’s all part of the first-class care and support that we provide to the people of Stamford and beyond.

We have a range of services and facilities to suit all care needs:

Nursing care • Residential care • Dementia care • Respite care If you'd like to take a look around – or just need a bit of friendly advice – your local Barchester care home will be happy to help.

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www.barchester.com

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18/03/2015 16:17

ARE YOU LOOKING FOR AN ACADEMIC SIXTH FORM FOR YOUR CHILD?

HARIN HARI SCHO

HARINGTON SCHOOL

WOULD YOU LIKE YOUR CHILD TO ATTEND ONE OF THE RUSSELL GROUP UNIVERSITIES? COME AND MEET THE HARINGTON TEAM IN STAMFORD ON THURSDAY 23 APRIL Come along to The Mess in the Cosy Club on Thursday 23 April at 6.30pm, meet the team behind the School and have all your questions answered.

• Opening September 2015 in Oakham • Duke of Edinburgh Award

• Individual Extended Project • Academic Curriculum

To find out more information about us please visit www.haringtonschool.com and follow us on Facebook and Twitter for the latest news.

55

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12/03/2015 16:17 12:30 18/03/2015

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19/03/2015 16:05

ART & ARTISTS…

THE DESIGNERS; Caroline Austin, Two Turtle Doves

Words & Photographs: Harjit Gammon

I

N the clichéd common imagination artists are tortured reclusive souls inhabiting garret like rooms.

While the room where Caroline Austin works might be described as a garret, the tortured reclusive epithet would be somewhat misplaced.

Garrulous and friendly she cuts a striking figure in her black garb and even darker blunt fringe cut black hair and pillar box red lips. In the eyrie of her shared studio, under the rafters in the attic of Snow Designs & Interiors, she shows me the tiny desk where she brings her embroideries to life.

Taking inspiration from her two young children, Harris and Finlay, and everyday sketches, Caroline creates her quirky free hand embroidery designs. Starting by sketching out the composition, she then adds appliquéd fabric to create colourful, one-off pieces, using her sewing machine as a paintbrush. Her work frequently incorporates British and Irish linens, Liberty prints and Harris tweeds, a nod to her Scottish origins. A Glaswegian by upbringing she attended the Glasgow School of Art, though only recently took up free hand embroidery after years of not pursuing her artistic training. Making clothes for her young children by hand inspired her partner to buy her a sewing machine and the rest as they say is history. She soon embarked on an embroidery class and has never looked back. Soon with fabrics threatening to engulf her family home (they have now colonised a large area of the tiny studio, spilling out of draws and bulging from shelves) Caroline fortuitously came to an arrangement with her friend Camilla Snow to rent a room in the newly available flat above the shop.

Next to a small window overlooking the rooftops with views towards the meadows, her modern white sewing machine is embellished with wacky stick-on felt designs and jewels, and emblazoned with a motto sticker urging her to ‘Get it Done’ . Although, her constant, obsessive preoccupation with new designs, “She eats, sleeps and breathes it all”, according to Camilla suggests she probably needs little encouragement. As ideas

CONCEPT by Art Pop-Up ‘Concept’ will showcase a broad range of contemporary artworks selected by curator Sam Roddan of Art Pop-Up, from the organisation’s recent projects and resident artists.

Brought together as a strange and fascinating collection, each artwork concocts a story, engenders enquiry and deliberation as its premise, rather than a fundamental appreciation of beauty. The concept conveyed is the basis of the artwork itself, depicted in intriguing details and unusual materials.

• Stamford Arts Centre Gallery April 3rd -22nd www.artpopup.co.uk

for portraying buildings, kids and dogs flood her mind, she jots them all into her constant companions-her numerous notebooks. “I even have one by the side of my bed”, she admits!

• Caroline’s designs can be seen at Snow Designs& Interiors; or at www.twoturtledovesdesign.com

Exclusive Snow Designs Exclusive to Snow Designs, bespoke products with the slogan “New York, London, Stamford” have proved extremely popular. These comprise linen cushions, coasters, cards and from May onwards they will be stocking the New York, London, Stamford mugs. Another recent addition to the shop has been the Stamford Tube Prints. These are available framed and unframed as A2 and A3 prints, and are ideal for gifts or as a striking wall feature. (Tube prints for Rutland and the Vale of Belvoir are also available).

Snow Designs has recently expanded its range of lighting including stocking the highly sought after Edison bulbs and leads in a variety of different style filaments and sizes, as well as light bulb lamps and pendants providing attractive, yet subtle mood lighting for the home. They also offer Carnival Light up letters, which are available in any letter of the alphabet so you can have your name in lights!

Snow Design’s 4-floors evolve on a weekly basis, with a constant supply of old and new interior products by a host of local designers so you won’t be disappointed! More information is accessible from their newly updated website which includes a “Meet the Designers” page providing further information on the designers and their work, and a “Vintage Collections” page portraying their latest vintage finds.

• 32 Saint Mary’s Street, Stamford, Lincolnshire PE9 2DS Tel: 01780 751551 www.snowdesignsandinteriors.com STAMFORD LIVING APRIL 2015

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19/03/2015 17:05

BRINGING LOCAL FOOD TO LIFE

Vote in the Great Food C Who are the local food & drink independents that make your town or village a better place?

I

’VE recently launched the inaugural Great Food Club 2015 awards and I want you to vote! The aim of the awards is to find and recognise the region’s very best, qualitydriven food and drink independents, and the only way to do that is to ask you to tell us who you think are the very best places and producers.

Of interest to Living readers are the awards that cover Leicestershire & Rutland, Lincolnshire and – at a push – Northamptonshire and Nottinghamshire.

The awards also cover Derbyshire and Warwickshire/West Midlands, which I’m mentioning just in case you’ve come across a great place on your travels.

There are three categories: 1) Best Local Producer 2) Best Food & Drink Shop 3) Best Pub, Restaurant or Cafe The Local Producer category covers any food or drink maker, from cheesemakers and chocolatiers to brewers and livestock farmers and everything in between. The Food & Drink Shop category is for farm shops, bakeries, bottle shops, butchers and delis, etc. And the Pub, Restaurant & Cafe category is selfexplanatory.

I’m sure a few local people and places spring to mind, whether it’s Hambleton Bakery and its superb breads, Grasmere Farm and its magnificent sausages, Stamford Cheese Cellar, The Olive Branch, The Wicked Witch, The Mad Turk, Castle Cottage Café, The Jolly Brewer, Tobie Norris or somewhere else entirely…. the list goes on. There are so many fantastic options to choose from in this region, each with its own way of doing things. The only rule is that they must be independent, so please don’t vote for national or global chains.

Once the online voting closes at the end

of May, a shortlist will be created, with final winners being decided after a judging process involving Great Food Club’s 10-strong writing team. The shortlist will be announced in June 2015 and winners soon after that. The results will be publishing in a future issue.

Each winner will receive a unique watercolour print by Great Food Club artist Graham Wright naming their award, plus an award-winner logo for their website.

Great Food Club now has 6,000 members and 200-plus recommended businesses, so by harnessing its reach, my ambition is to turn the Great Food Club Awards into the Midlands’ most authoritative food and drink accolades.

But I can only do that with your help, so please cast your vote now at www.greatfoodclub.co.uk/ awards

Rob Morton and his Scrambler cider – will you vote for a local brewer?

Joe Schneider, head cheesemaker at Stichelton Dairy, Welbeck, Nottinghamshire

Who are the region’s best food & drink independents?

Vote now at www.greatfoodclub.co.uk/awards Closing date: May 31, 2015 58

STAMFORD LIVING APRIL 2015

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19/03/2015 17:06

d Club Awards 2015!

PHOTO BY ROBIN STEWAR T

Will a local gastropub or restaurant get your vote?

Or do you prefer more traditional ‘sandwich & cask beer’ sort of pub?

‘March Hare’ and ‘September Wheat’ by Great Food Club artist Graham Wright. Each winning business will receive a unique watercolour print by Graham

About the writer Matt Wright founded and runs Greatfoodmag.co.uk and Greatfoodclub.co.uk, two Leicestershire-based websites that celebrate and promote local food and drink. His Great Food Club Handbook 2013/14 is out now.

Join Matt’s food club – Great Food Club – free of charge and discover the very best local food and drink.

Members can enjoy special offers at around 100 handpicked independent pubs, restaurants, producers and farm shops www.greatfooodclub.co.uk/join STAMFORD LIVING APRIL 2015

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19/03/2015 17:24

EATING OUT

No 3 The Yard Without any shadow of a doubt this is producing Stamford’s best food at the moment, combining originality with absolute deliciousness. Reviewer: Nicholas Rudd-Jones

W

E went on a Friday night and the restaurant was buzzing. Front of house is the very experienced owner, Simon McEnery, who is orchestrating the public space with calm control. Cooking in the kitchen with his team is co-owner Tim Luff, who has a great pedigree including a stint as Head Chef at the Olive Branch. He is now at a stage in his career where he has the confidence to cook anything but the desire to create dishes which his patrons really enjoy.

I went with my two boys, and after a week of study and extra-curricular exertions, they were hungry. Our waitress was Alexandra, very experienced, knowledgeable and enthusiastic about her task. And best of all she knows the menu, so every question we asked she was able to answer with aplomb.

Starters comprised Chicken liver parfait, chutney and toasted brioche; Tempura battered king prawns, chilli & ginger mayonnaise; and Smoked haddock chowder with queen scallops – all delicious, the star being the deliciously rich haddock chowder with very succulent scallops For the Mains, David had the Roast duck breast, sweet potato pomme anna, honey roast potatoes, beetroot, crispy kale; one of the great features of this was the layered potatoes and sweet potato which were stunning and had a great texture. Sammy wolfed down the Maple syrup glazed chicken breast, pearl barley

risotto, sweet crispy bacon. This epitomises the cooking here – the pearl barley risotto, infused with an outstandingly flavoured stock, combined with the moreishness of the bacon and maple syrup. Sammy would happily order that dish every time he came. And I had the Special of the Day, Salmon, with a pea, mint & goat’s cheese risotto; well cooked, wellseasoned, all-round delicious.

Desserts delivered in the way desserts should – sweet and filling. For the record we had Toffee apple, cinnamon & sultana crumble with custard; Steamed chocolate & cherry sponge, chocolate & cherry sauce, vanilla ice cream; Pineapple carpaccio, passion fruit panna cotta, brandy snap. The chocolate & cherry sponge and the brandy snap received special accolades, and the kitchen kindly gave us a second brandy snap to satisfy everyone! This is how they are here – always keen to look after their guests well!

Finally, there is a strong wine list, supplied by Marcus Welford.

• No3. The Yard, Ironmonger St, Stamford, PE9 1PL Tel: 01780 756080 www.no3theyard.co.uk Opening Hours Tuesday to Saturday Lunch 11.30am to 2.30pm Tuesday to Thursday Dinner 6.30pm to 9.30pm Friday & Saturday Dinner 6pm to 10pm Sunday lunch 12 till 3pm

STAMFORD CONSERVATION

The Stones of Stamford Revisited

By Rachel Morley PGDip (B.Cons.) BEng Architectural Conservator

T

HIS is a ‘must have’ book for anyone who owns, or is thinking of owning, one of Stamford’s marvellous limestone buildings.

Professionals responsible for advising such clients – architects, surveyors, estate agents – will no doubt wish to have their own reference copy close at hand.

The book (or monograph, to describe it more accurately) is made up of three parts.

First, a description of the limestone obtained from each of the ‘Big Six’ quarries – Ketton; Clipsham; Collyweston; Barnack; Stamford and Weldon (although only the first three are still being worked). Morley’s book takes a scientific view of these limestones, providing a photomicrograph of each type that helps the reader to understand the type’s strengths and weaknesses.

The second part of the monograph looks in some detail, and with copious illustration, at the twenty three weathering patterns

60

and processes that can cause damage and deterioration to Stamford’s fine buildings. Of increasing relevance during modern winters is the growing use of highway salting. Wet weather dissolves the salt, which penetrates deep into the pore structure of the limestone: dry weather recrystalises the salt, causing the pores to rupture.

It is one thing to observe and understand the causes of these twenty three weathering processes. It is quite another to actually do something about them. The third part of this monograph describes the most useful conservation treatments, to help us to preserve our beautiful town for future generations.

Because of its comprehensive nature, this book provides students and their educators with an excellent introduction to the care of, and attention to, Stamford’s built environment –

which is, as we all know, the finest stone town in England.

• The monograph is published by the Stamford Civic Society and is on sale at Walker’s Bookshop in Stamford High Street for £5.

STAMFORD LIVING APRIL 2015

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SPRING OFFERS LUNCH FOR LESS 2 courses £12.95, 3rd course 3.95 DINE FOR LESS EVENING MENU 2 courses £15.95, 3rd course £3.95 • • • • • •

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www.hambletonbakery.co.uk 61

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19/03/2015 16:04

Locally renowned Chef Dameon Clarke at ■

■ ■

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One of the finest cookery schools in the East Midlands Range of courses to suit all levels Set on a working farm in the Heart of Leicestershire Gift Vouchers available Corporate Services available

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19/03/2015 16:03

EATING OUT

The Wicked Witch to the North Ross Thain tries out Dameon Clarke’s food on his return to Ryhall as owner as well as head chef

T

HREE miles to the north of Stamford sits the pretty village of Ryhall. It is thought of by slightly upmarket Stamfordians as being a little bit Lincolnshire, but the centre of the village is one of the prettiest in the area and it is actually in Rutland, which not even Stamford can boast.

The Wicked Witch became so, changing its name from The Millstone (which it had been for the previous 200 years or so and is a far more sensible sounding name) and over the last six months or so, it has seen various comings and goings in the management and kitchen department. Dameon Clarke flits around from location to location with his cauldron but, finally, he might have found a longer term rest place. He was at The Wicked Witch for a year or so under the previous management, left to go to Easton on the Hill where he ran an excellent kitchen with his fiancée Victoria, both of whom promptly left to buy a new lease at The Wicked Witch when it came on the market again.

Confused – possibly – but what is not confusing is the quality of the food.

Victoria is a very genial front of house hostess and is honest about their plans for the property. She and Dameon are getting married in August (I wouldn’t like to do the cooking for that one) and they are in the process of negotiating a long lease with Marstons, the pub landlords. Marstons have done a lot for real ale over the last 25 years or so and are now a big national brand. However, as with all the big pub owners, they do have a slight stranglehold over what can/can’t be done on their premises. Their supply of beer and their wine list is limited and it is now highly unusual to walk into one of our local bars and not find any local beers. When there are five breweries within about a 10 mile radius of the pub it seems a little bit of a shame not to support them. However, there are plans

to change that.

Accompanied by my Chief Analyst, we were given the tasting menu of around nine courses.

We stressed the importance of modesty in the course size which was (largely) adhered to, with one or two notable exceptions.

We commenced proceedings with a spiced squash volute whizzed into froth. Everyone receives this little amuse bouche at the start of the evening proceedings and it was simply delicious. Roasted scallops with an apple, celeriac and quince volute was, once again, breathtakingly good and an amazing amalgam of flavour.

By the time we got to the third course of a frozen blue cheese with pears in red wine, frozen grapes and pear sorbet with a walnut nougatine, we were wondering where on earth we would be taken next. Eel was the not so obvious answer; smoked, with duck, spring onions on a broccoli salad with almonds and bee pollen (yes bee pollen) which sounded like too many flavours when it was introduced, but all seemed to blend seamlessly and was the most exceptional course of the evening.

Our fifth course was garlic snails with braised cod cheek on a bone marrow toast which was all incredibly rich. The braised cod cheek is really a forgotten cut from this wonderful fish (now recovering healthily in the North Sea and much more attractive than an Eel) and my companion struggled a bit to finish it. A very impressive dish – and not for the faint hearted.

Our sixth course was a more familiar roast rump of lamb from Sophie Arlott’s flock, with a basil gnocchi, roasted sweetbread, courgette ribbon and a confit of echalote. The quality was simply staggering and served with real enthusiasm and energy by staff that, clearly, share Dameon’s passion for their produce.

For a pre-pudding pudding we had a mango and passion fruit espuma with a shortbread honeycomb crumbled at the base. This is incredibly inventive cuisine and would grace the most delicate or even sophisticated palettes at the highest class establishments. Courses 8/9 took on a bit of a blur and we had chocolate crème brulee with honeycomb, nutella powder, strawberry and caramel jelly. Astoundingly good. Some coffee, careful consideration in mild disbelief and we were out.

In the era of TV Cook-offs, it would be fascinating if there was a Dameon Clarke v Aaron Patterson contest. Dameon suggested that he would welcome the opportunity and would have a word with his mate over at Hambleton Hall. I have a feeling that the two of them would laugh it off, but I for one would pay decent money to go along for that particular evening. The Wicked Witch is going to do really well – sort out the wine list, beer and the lease generally and Dameon and Victoria will have a long happy time there together. It is also decent value – nine courses for £50 or a more modest three larger courses for £21.95.

• The Wicked Witch, Bridge St, Ryhall, PE9 4HH. Tel: 01780 763649. www. thewickedwitchexperience.co.uk

STAMFORD LIVING APRIL 2015

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19/03/2015 17:30

The Mad Turk Authentic, Home-Style Turkish Cypriot Food

Lunches

Saturdays from 12pm

10 hot & cold mezes £9 pp

Full menu available

01780 238001 Monday to Thursday 6.00pm - 11.00pm Friday 5.30pm - 11.00pm Saturday 12 pm - 11 pm 64

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www.themadturk.co.uk info@themadturk.co.uk

18/03/2015 16:18

EATING OUT

The (Not So) Mad Turk The Mad Turk is ranked the number one restaurant in Stamford on TripAdvisor. William Eichler sat down with the owners Ertunc and Shelly Kazim to discover the secret of their success

P

ROTRUDING from the small forest of shop signs growing along Saint Paul’s Street is one particularly striking image: an Imam sitting backwards on a donkey. It belongs to The Mad Turk (8-9 Saint Paul’s Street, Stamford, PE9 2BE Tel: 01780 238001), a Turkish Cypriot restaurant opened in 2013 by Ertunc “Kaz” Kazim and his wife Shelly. The pictured Imam is the 13th century central Asian cleric Nasrettin Hoca who roamed the land telling tales that even today entertain and educate Turkish children. At first sight the name appears to fit the sign.

But, after sampling some of The Mad Turk’s wares, I can guarantee that there is method in the madness.

Sitting down with Kaz and Shelly over thick, dark coffee, I ask, through a mouthful of Turkish Delight, about the restaurant’s name. “Well it was initially the Fat Turk,” says Kaz, “because when I started I was 18.5 stone.” This had to be changed though when a restaurant in Essex with the same name sued. “They registered the name two weeks before us and we had a court case. I took it right to the end and we lost.” However, they soon settled on a new name: The Mad Turk.

LOOKING BACKWARDS Nasrettin Hoca was not mad though.

“The reason he sits on the donkey the wrong way round,” Kaz explains, “is he knows where he is going but he likes to see where he’s been.” This strikes me as an apt description of Kaz and Shelly. Born in the UK, they both moved to Cyprus when they were young and they met there in 1990. Shelly’s grandfather, an orphan adopted by shepherds, worked for the RAF and was provided with a British passport in return for his service. Kaz’s family were refugees: “When they had the troubles in Cyprus they came over with nothing.”

Before entering the restaurant business, Kaz and Shelly started a successful pre-packed sandwich factory. Soon though they sold up and opened The Mad Turk. Shelly was reluctant at first. “He’s always wanted a restaurant. That’s been his dream the whole time. I was never keen.” But for Kaz it was a natural move. “I’ve grown up in the restaurant business.

My parents had about seven places in central London. I’m not a classically trained chef. I’m good at what I do and what I’ve learnt I’ve really learnt off my father. I’ve inherited his palate.”

A TASTE OF THE MEDITERRANEAN For many British people, Turkish food consists of piles of sliced meat on pitta – the “dodgy doner” as Shelly describes it. These are generally inhaled on Friday night after a few beers and then regretted on Saturday morning. But that is not what you’ll find at The Mad Turk. Like Nasrettin Hoca, Kaz and Shelly keep an eye on their Cypriot roots and bring something of the Mediterranean to the restaurant. The kebabs are cooked on charcoal and the mezes – houmous, borek, kadin budu (“Ladies’

Thighs”) - are prepared fresh everyday.

Thankfully, though, there are some Cypriot dishes that are not on the menu. “As a kid I remember that my mum used to buy sheep’s heads to cook. And she had a special toothbrush to brush the teeth before putting it in the oven.” Seeing the shocked look on my face, Kaz points out that the meat was no different to what goes into most ready-made pies. “It just doesn’t look as nice when it’s displayed as a head. Actually, it looks more like a James Bond film!” he says laughing.

But The Mad Turk offers more than just Mediterranean food; it brings something of the spirit of Cyprus as well. The walls of the old stone building are adorned with traditional Turkish saddlebags and intricately patterned tiles. In a corner, a drum squats. Sometimes, if the mood is right, Kaz emerges from the kitchen at the end of the night and plays it for the unsuspecting diners. “We’ve had the whole restaurant up and dancing. I’ve even had people passing by and joining in outside which was a lovely feeling, a lovely atmosphere.”

Despite a number of set-backs – on top of being sued, a fire also gutted the upstairs last year – they have made the restaurant a success. In my experience, it can certainly hold its own against many of the Istanbul eateries lining the Bosphorous. The recipe? It would seem sticking to the Hoca’s advice of heading into the future while keeping an eye on the past has paid off for Kaz and Shelly.

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SEAN HOPE COOKS

Lazy family feast!

This dish is made to be shared with friends and family, says Sean Hope British ‘tapas’ - As I mentioned in the last issue, we’re now serving pub classics in tapas form at The Olive Branch, priced at £6 each (two for £10 or three for £24). Local photographer Robin Stewart has been over to capture a few of them…

PHOTOS: ROBIN STEWART

Scotch egg

Cottage pie

Gammon & pineapple

Changes at The Red Lion Inn at Stathern The Olive Branch’s sister pub, The Red Lion in Stathern, Leicestershire, began a new chapter in March with our friend Mark Barbour returning to take the reins. Mark was general manager at the Red Lion from 2002 to 2006 when it was named AA Pub Of the Year and The Publican Food Pub of the Year, and it’s great to have him back.

Ben Jones and I will continue to be involved in the Red Lion but will start to step back to focus on other areas of the business.

Mark started his career at Hambleton Hall before joining The Red Lion in 2002.

In 2007 he left to become company training manager at Le Bistrot Pierre Group.

Since 2013 he has been general manager at the award-winning Fleece Inn at Addingham, West Yorkshire.

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DAY spent relaxing with friends and family enjoying delicious food and drink is a day enjoyed to the full! In this issue I wanted to share a family dish that’s simple to make, beautifully rustic and packed with interesting flavours. So why not invite a few of your nearest and dearest round and enjoy?

To get top quality pork belly, try Grasmere Farm Shop on Stamford High Street or Nelsons Butchers. For the cider, look out for Fynbury’s Rutland Cider (www.fynburyscider. co.uk), or try Hogan’s of Warwickshire, which we serve in The Olive Branch.

Slow-roast pork belly, fennel, sweet potatoes & baby spinach Serves 4 • 1.2kg pork belly strips, sealed in hot pan • 3 bulbs fennel, quartered • 4 long shallots, halved and fried • 2 garlic cloves, crushed • 2 bay leaves • 1/4 stick cinnamon • 1 slice lime • 1 500ml bottle of cider • 2 dessert apples, quartered, cores removed • 4 sweet potatoes 1 Place all ingredients except sweet potatoes into a roasting tin and lay pork

belly strips on top, using vegetables as a trivet.

2 Cook in a pre-heated oven at Gas Mark 1-2 (145C) for 3-4 hours (until pork is really tender).

3 Halfway through the cooking, place four sweet potatoes on a layer of rock salt in a baking tin, then sprinkle with more rock salt, a drizzle of Welland Valley rapeseed oil and a sprig of thyme.

4 Bake the potatoes.

5 When all cooked, remove from oven and serve with a side dish of fresh spinach, washed and drizzled with rapeseed oil and lemon juice.

PASSIONATE ABOUT GOOD FOOD? If you are passionate about local food and drink then you might like to join Great Food Club.

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

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ASK LEO SPECIAL

Magna Carta – Local Connections The 800th Anniversary of Magna Carta falls on June 15th. Stamford’s part in the events took place at Easter so Jean Orpin and Sue Lee have been investigating some local connections for this month.

A

T Easter 1215, shortly before the famous meeting at Runnymede where King John signed what we know as Magna Carta, a group of rebellious barons gathered in Stamford to discuss their grievances. Stamford, a manor of Earl de Warenne, was on the main route between the north and the south and was an important town.

It was one of the six sites where tournaments were allowed. These festivities had been devised to enable knights to practise their skills in mock battles. The pretext of attending a tournament provided the opportunity for many of the discontented nobles to meet up. The Archbishop of Canterbury, Stephen Langton, travelled with them.

STEPHEN LANGTON Archbishop Langton would have been familiar with his home county of Lincolnshire. He was born about 1150 and grew up in the small village of Langton-by-Wragby where his father was Lord of the Manor. His first schooling was in Lincoln, a renowned place of learning.

As an adult he spent many years in Paris establishing a reputation as a preacher and theologian and becoming a close friend of the man who was to become Pope Innocent III. In 1206 that Pope summoned Langton to Rome and made him a Cardinal.

Meanwhile in England, the right to appoint a new Archbishop of Canterbury had become a major struggle between King John and the monks of Canterbury. Both sides appealed to the Pope who, in 1207, ordered a re-election at which his own candidate - Stephen Langton was elected.

King John was furious and refused to accept Langton in the country. It was not until 1213 that John, needing the support of the Pope, relented and Langton was able to take up his position.

John had sworn to change certain laws and practices but he quickly reneged on this so Langton began to preach against him, calling for a return to the Charter of Liberties of Henry I. By 1215 when they met at Stamford, Langton had joined the Barons. He was one of

the leaders of their negotiations at Runnymede and most historians agree that he played a vital part in composing the charter.

WILLIAM DE WARENNE The de Warennes, whose blue and gold chequers still form part of Stamford’s coat of arms, were a very powerful family. The 1st Earl had fought with William the Conqueror and had been granted estates in England as well as his lands in Normandy. By 1200, they were extremely wealthy and powerful, owning many castles from Lewes, their main residence, to Conisborough in Yorkshire and Castle Acre in Norfolk.

When Normandy was lost to the French in 1204, William de Warenne the 5th Earl lost his Norman holdings so King John compensated him by giving him the towns of Stamford and Grantham. He was also appointed to important posts such as Warden of the Cinque Ports and Warden of the Welsh Marches.

De Warenne was one of the few barons who remained loyal to John. He advised the king to agree to Magna Carta and played an important part as a mediator at Runnymede. It was only when John renounced the agreement and entered into civil war with the barons that Earl Warenne abandoned John and declared his support for the French Prince Louis, the figurehead of the opposition. After John’s death he became a loyal supporter of John’s son, King Henry III. LINCOLN’S MAGNA CARTA Following negotiations, King John agreed to accept the baron’s demands at Runnymede. Within weeks John had declared the charter null and void but copies had already been made and distributed around the country. Of these only four have survived and one belongs to Lincoln Cathedral.

The Bishop of Lincoln was present at Runnymede and may have taken the copy straight back to Lincoln. There are slight variations between the surviving copies and Lincoln’s is the only one written in an ‘official’ handwriting. It is also the only one of the four that always remained in its original location. From April 1st it will be on show in a new display at Lincoln Castle.

NEWARK CASTLE In the civil war that followed the failure of Magna Carta, the north-south route through Lincolnshire was used by King John in his attempts to subdue the northern rebels and contain the King of Scotland. The King contracted dysentery in King’s Lynn but marched north again reaching the Bishop of Lincoln’s newly re-constructed stone castle at Newark where he died on 18th October 1216.

Ask Leo would like to hear from you.

Email them at askleo@btinternet.com

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URBAN RAMBLES

Leicester

Leicester has so much more to offer than first meets the eye.

By car you typically see only the ring road and car parks. On foot you have New Walk, two delightful parks and a long stretch of canal side, plus great architecture throughout.

Nicholas Rudd-Jones explores

WALK DATA Distance: 10kms (6 miles) Typical time: 2.5 hrs Height gain: 30 ms Map: Ordnance Survey Explorer Map 233 Leicester & Hinckley Start & finish: Highcross Shopping Centre (LE1 4AN) Terrain: very straightforward; sturdy footwear needed, could be muddy on towpath

THE CONTEXT Leicester was a very significant Roman town and has remained a significant settlement and crossroads ever since.

Its heyday was in the 19th century when it became the centre of Britain’s hosiery manufacturing and became one of Europe’s wealthiest cities. Much of the architecture, both civil and industrial, that you will see on this walk derives from that period.

Whilst Leicester survived WWII largely intact, the planners got to work in the 1960s & 70s and proceeded to strangle the life out of the city with an insensitive ring road which severed key routes.

In recent years, however, things have much improved, as the ‘Connecting Leicester’ project has linked parts of the city together again, and the city centre has flourished.

POINTS OF INTEREST The Guildhall, Cathedral and Richard III Visitor Centre. In August 1485 King Richard III was killed at the Battle of Bosworth, and buried by the Grey Friars, a Franciscan Holy order, in their friary church. His grave now forms part of the Richard III Visitor Centre, and he has recently been re-interred in the Cathedral The Lanes, just east of the Guildhall area, are perfect for browsing.

The Leicester Market is an institution not to be missed. It is full of produce, meat & fish and also all sorts of other goods. Find out much more about it at www.leicestermarket.co.uk New Walk, laid out in 1785, is one of the country’s earliest planned pedestrian only routes, designed as a pleasant promenade at the expense of the Corporation.

Leicester Museum in New Walk A charming museum, and if Egyptology or dinosaurs is your thing, a ‘must visit’ place. There are also often good exhibitions and a small, but interesting permanent collection of paintings and Picasso ceramics.

There is so much interesting architecture on this route, including: the Queen Annestyle Town Hall (1879), New Walk Museum (1849), the art-deco Lutyens Cenotaph in Victoria Park(1923) the modernist Stirling Engineering Building (1963), proto-modern factory buildings in and around Gateway St. You can find out much more at http://www. jonestheplanner.co.uk/2011/02/urban-impressions-leicester-city.html Castle Gardens are at the centre of ancient Leicester - close by are the Castle Gateway and the Great Hall, Newarke House Museum, Trinity Hospital and the 12th century Church of Saint Mary de Castro and the Saxon Saint Nicholas Church. The Jewry Wall Museum is a short detour, and there you can inspect the Roman remains of the city.

Abbey Gardens, opened in 1882, contains the site of the 12th century Leicester Abbey.

The abbey ruins contain a memorial to Cardinal Thomas Wolsey, who was buried in the grounds. He died while en route from York to London in 1530

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THE ROUTE 1

Starting from John Lewis Highcross, head SW down the pedestrian Bath House Lane, passing Wagamamas on your right; then up a flight of steps to Highcross St Turn left (S) into Highcross St and proceed to Nicholas Place (Jubilee Square) , skirting along its left side to Guildhall Lane Turn into Guildhall Lane, passing first the Guildhall then the Cathedral on your right; cross Loseby Lane then take the first right (an arcade) into St Martin’s Square Shopping, leading into Hotel St Once in Hotel St, take the first left along Market Place, past the covered market on your right Turn right at the Open Market and proceed S through the gates of the market, right into Horsefair St and then Town Hall Park. Cross to the SW corner of the park, then turn right down Bishop St At the end, turn left down Bowling Green St, then right along Belvoir St, until you reach New Walk, a pedestrian street running SE.

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Turn left here, and then shortly right through the gates into Castle Park. Head north until you reach the footbridge over the River Soar, which you cross On the other side, turn right and then follow the river path, until you see a narrow walkway (Evans’ Weir) heading across the river (0.5kms) Take this walkway, which shortly joins you up with the Grand Union Canal ‘Mile Straight’ towpath, which you then follow (going under the road in both cases) until you reach Abbey Park As soon as you are in the park, take the left path (N) past the miniature railway; at the end of the park, turn left out of the gate along a path to a concrete bridge, which you cross Once over the bridge turn back right, following the river NE until you reach a large old bridge with several spans Cross this back into Abbey Park, and then head back to the park exit, with the lake on your immediate left Once out of the park, take Friday St (foot) bridge which immediately crosses the canal and heads into Friday St Take a left, then an immediate right into Watling St until you reach Canning Place Head right here and then walk slightly left through the churchyard of St Margaret, exiting at the far side into the underpass that enables you to cross the ring road At the far side, head down Church Gate, until you reach Butt Close Lane Take a right here, a left onto E Bond St, then shortly a right along Causeway Lane. You have made it back to the start point.

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Take New Walk all the way until you reach Victoria Park (1.2Kms) Once in the park, turn right (SW), with the play & fitness area on your left and shortly the 5-a-side football on your right. Proceed, with the cenotaph a 100 metres or so to your right After 0.7kms turn right along the tarmac path to Mayor’s Walk and the University; you will see the Stirling Engineering building on your left; head down through the university to University Rd Cross and enter the Welford Rd Cemetery; take a left up to the high ground and then walk a circuit according to your interest back to this gate; then proceed NE up University Rd Turn left into Lancaster Rd, head NW under the railway and then walk through Nelson Mandela Park Cross both roads and head right (NW) up Infirmary Rd, with the hospital on your left Take a left into Jarrom St just after the public toilets Soon, turn right into Atkins St, then swings left into Henshaw St and then joins Gateway St; tun right (N) and follow the road until it reaches a T-junction, the Newarke

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PIT STOPS World Peace Café, 17 Guildhall Lane. Part of a Buddhist Meditation Centre. A quirky, friendly and relaxed atmosphere.

Vintage Tea Room and Crafts Leicester Indoor Market, Level C. A charming, nononsense tea room with a light and airy feel overlooking the market.

Abbey Park Café STAMFORD LIVING APRIL 2015

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ARE YOU SINGLE AND FORTY PLUS LOOKING TO IMPROVE YOUR SOCIAL LIFE? Consider joining the Rutland Optimists who meet on the last Monday of every month at the Wheatsheaf, Oakham at 8.30pm to socialise and collect the monthly newsletter listing i.e. walks, pub night, meals out, parties, basically any event a member has proposed and organised.

Generally events are held in Stamford, Oakham and surrounding areas.

www.oppies.org.uk

or text 07851477705

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DIARY DATES

What’s On Amander Meade selects some of the best entertainment in the region this month Saturday 28 March to Sunday 12 April, 9.30am to 5pm FAMILY EVENT: Easter Egg Hunt Make a date with the Big Bunny to find out what is hidden in the Enchanted Wood. To start your adventure you’ll jump on a bumpy tractor ride up to the wood where you’ll hop off to explore the woodlands. Hidden among the trees are plastic eggs and the challenge is to find one to give to the Big Bunny in exchange for a chocolate surprise.

Sacrewell Country Park Normal admission applies for entry and a trip to the Enchanted Wood costs an additional £3 per child.

For information visit sacrewell.org.uk Wednesday 1 April, 2.30pm FAMILY SHOW: Pinocchio With catchy songs, great costumes and spectacular ultra violet glow-in-the-dark puppetry, this show is a real treat for all the family. Geppetto longs for a son of his own and builds a puppet boy named Pinocchio who is magically brought to life by a beautiful fairy. Stamford Theatre Tickets £7.50 or £26 for a family of 4 Tel: 01780 763203 or www. stamfordartscentre.com Friday 3 to Monday 6 April A fun filled Easter weekend with an Easter Egg Hunt every day. Paint an egg or help decorate our special Easter Tree in the woodland garden.

Barnsdale Gardens, Exton www.barnsdalegardens.co.uk Wednesday 8 April, 2pm and 4pm CHILDREN’S THEATRE: My Friend Mole “Mole is my best friend, he is brave and funny.

Mole goes everywhere I go. No one can see him apart from me.” A gentle tale of a very special friendship and the imagination. Using live music and storytelling. For very young children and their families.

Stamford Theatre £5 Tel: 01780 763203 or www.stamfodartscentre.co.uk Thursday 9 April, 10.30am to 4pm PAINTING DAY: Painting in Pastel Pen and Wash with Lucy Ellis Lucy lectured in Fine Art at New College Nottingham for nine years. Join Lucy on one of her very friendly and supportive workshops.

Watch detailed step-by-step demonstrations to guide you through drawing, composition and pastel painting or pen and wash techniques.

Complete beginners or experienced artists welcome. £59 per person, materials can be provided for an extra £6 ordered at the time of booking Tel: 01780 761996 Burghley House, Stamford

Sunday 5 April, 11am to 5pm FAMILY EVENT: Easter Egg Hunt Follow the treasure hunt and solve the riddle to claim your chocolate egg from the Easter Bunny as well as a chance to win a Family Season Card in our prize draw.

Burghley Gardens of Surprise Admission is free with a standard ticket for the house or gardens.

Thursday 9 April, 2pm FAMILY SHOW: The Wind in the Willows A spectacular musical adaptation of the classic book. Join Ratty, Mole, Badger and Toad as they embark on the adventure of a lifetime to save Toad Hall. The perfect treat for families this spring.

Stamford Corn Exchange Theatre Tickets £9 or £32 family ticket Tel: 01780 766455 or www.stamford-corn-exchange.co.uk Saturday 11 and Sunday 12 April, 10am to 4pm EVENT: Fine Food Market Over thirty local suppliers will celebrate local produce with handmade cheeses, artisan breads, organic vegetables, luxury sweet treats and rare breed meats.

The Courtyard at Burghley House, Stamford Admission is free Tuesday 14 April, 7.30pm TALK: Philippa Massey Talks Renowned historian, Philippa will speak about ‘Stamford’s Industries’ – a small built town built in an attractive setting? Or a hive of industry stretching back over a thousand years? Philippa will examine the industries which have shaped the town.

Stamford Arts Centre Tickets £5/£4.50 Tel: 01780 763203 or www.stamfordartscentre.com Saturday 18 April, 7.30pm MUSIC: Spring Concert The ever popular Stamford Brass perform a lively programme to welcome the spring. Stamford Arts Centre Tickets £10 Tel: 01780 763203 www.stamfordartscentre.co.uk STAMFORD LIVING APRIL 2015

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DIARY DATES

What’s On Thursday 23 April, 4pm to 9pm EVENT: Sunglasses Party During this special shopping event held by the independent businesses in the Westgate Arcade, The Oculist will be serving pink champagne while you preview the 2015 sunglasses collections at their store. Other retailers will be joining in to create a party atmosphere with special events.

The Oculist, Westgate Arcade, Peterborough Thursday 23, Friday 24 and Saturday 25 April at 7.30pm and Sunday 26 April at 3pm THEATRE: The Vicar of Dibley In support of Comic Relief, the Corn Exchange Players bring the hit TV series to life on stage with this new adaptation including all your favourite characters. When the Bishop appoints Geraldine as Vicar of Dibley, the parishioners are surprised and she must battle to win over the sceptical parish council.

Stamford Corn Exchange Theatre Tickets £9.50/£8.50 Children £7.50 Family Ticket 30 Tel: 01780 766455 or www.stamford-corn-exchange.co.uk Sunday 26 April, 11am to 3pm EVENT: Stamford Quality Market Packed full of gorgeous, stylish and chic items from our local independent small businesses, the market has unique atmosphere.

Admission is free.

Stamford Arts Centre Monday 27 April to Saturday 9 May 10am to 4pm EXHIBITION: Spring Show The Welland Valley Art Society gathers artists from the surrounding five counties and this exhibition showcases a wide variety of styles and techniques from professionals and amateurs. Most of the exhibits are for sale.

Stamford Gallery, within the Arts Centre Admission is free Saturday 2 May, 7.30pm MUSIC: Gala Concert Entitled ‘4 Girls, 4 Harps’, Harriet Adie, Keziah Thomas, Eleanor Turner and Elizabeth Scorah present this exciting programme.

St Martin’s Church Tickets £12/£10, Students £3 from Stamford Arts Centre Box Office, Tel: 01780 763203 and under 18s free.

Children’s Workshops for the Easter Holidays – all taking place at Stamford Arts Centre with booking at www.stamfordartscentre.com or Tel: 01780 763203 Wednesday 1 April, sessions between 9.45am and 4pm Bugs and Beasties with Sue Kirk Join Sue for some creative rush weaving in the gallery plus some spiders, bugs and beasties

Thursday 9 April, 10am to 12.30pm and 1.30pm to 4pm Lego Workshop Children aged between 5 and 12 years can have fun with a huge selection of Lego bricks and build tall buildings, bridges, roads, parks and railways using batteries, bulbs, wires and switches to bring your creations to life. With Lego bricks, the possibilities are endless and are limited only by your imagination. Early booking is advised. £8 per child.

to go in it. A family friendly workshop for children under 10 and their families. Children must be accompanied by a maximum of one (free) adult. £5 per child.

Thursday 2 April between 11am and 3pm in twenty minute sessions Stories In The Dark with Marion Leeper A brand new storytelling show for children aged 2 to 7 and their families. Have fun exploring in the dark. Enter the dark tent for a magical show with torches, shadows, colours and sounds. Find out who stole the darkness, and why the sun and the moon are high and dry in the sky. All children to be accompanied. £1.50 per person or £5 for a family of 4.

Tuesday 7 April 10am to 4pm Spring Creations with Liz Children aged between 7 and 12 years can spend the whole day with Liz Paige and make some beautiful spring crafts, sing songs and create props for a little show in the afternoon. Bring old clothes, packed lunch and drinks. £18 per child.

STAMFORD LIVING APRIL 2015

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ACCOUNTANTS

CARPENTRY

For all your new PC and Laptop requirements

Expert advice, local knowledge Contact Tom Hindmarch:

tom.hindmarch@duntop.co.uk

01780 750888

14 All Saint’s Street, Stamford, Lincolnshire PE9 2PA

www.duntop.co.uk

All aspects of carpentry and building work undertaken Tel: 01780 591396 - Mob: 07703 056260 Matt@mpcarpentryandbuilding.co.uk

We specialise in providing the complete accountancy and business support service you need to enable you to concentrate on growing your business.

Call Michelle for a free initial consultation on 01780 751115 Email: mfeasey@feaseyaccounts.co.uk

Chartered Accountants

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Working with you to achieve success

• Renovations • Alterations • Extensions • Qualified Velux Installer • Loft & Garage Conversions www.wsstaffcarpentry.co.uk email: wsstaffcarpentry@btinternet.com

Mob: 07811 310 012 Tel: 01780 752602

We oer individuals and businesses alike a wide range of tailored accountancy and taxation services along with proactive ďŹ nancial and business planning advice geared to you achieving your objectives.

CARPET CLEANING

Clothing Alterations & Repairs Brazenose Lane, Stamford (01780) 480762 MON, TUE, WED, FRI 10 - 4.00 THUR CLOSED SAT 9.00-12noon

TEL: 01780 753477 SCOTGATE – STAMFORD

We offer a wide range of garage doors through a selection of well known suppliers

CURTAINS AND BLINDS

New Doors, Repairs & Servicing Automatic Openers, Roller Shutters & Sectional Doors

A complete & professional service

CUT OUT THE MIDDLE MAN!

FREE quotations & no call out charge

Tel: 01778 570408/07734 945700 www.lincsgaragedoorservices.co.uk

Professional curtains & blinds made to order

GAS ENGINEER

FOR FREE MEASURE & QUOTE PLEASE CALL LISA FISHER ON

07715 365845

plumbing & heating engineer Tel: 01780 752311 Mob: 07712 771105

Boiler Servicing & Breakdowns Plumbing & Heating Maintenance 548567

PROFESSIONAL CARPET CLEANING

28 Lindsey Road, Uffington, Stamford, Lincs, PE9 4SH

CALL TOM 01733 893153. 07538 402555 ONLY ÂŁ20 PER ROOM INCLUDING SCOTCHGARD

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PROFESSIONAL GARAGE DOOR SERVICES

DECORATORS

Interior & & Exterior E x t e r i o r Decorating Decorating Interior

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GARAGE DOORS

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HEALTH & FITNESS

IAN SHEPPARD FUNCTIONAL TRAINING

I n t e r i o r & General E x t eDecorating r i o r D e c o r a t i nSpecialising g in corrective exercise and rehabilitation Specialising in corrective

3 BED HOUSE ONLY‌‌‌‌..£75 4 BED HOUSE ONLY‌‌‌‌..£99

I n t e Ir ni ot e r Fully r&i o E r Qualified x&t eEr xi ot e r r& Di oe rc o Dreact oi nr g ating Insured

exercise and rehabilitation

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Exercise Performance Sports Injury Rehabilitation Pain Management Exercise Performance Pain Management

01780 751978 01780 751978 01780 01780 751978 751978 ÂŁ5 SURCHARGE APPLIES IF BOOKING ONLY ONE ROOM NO FREEBIES, NO GIMMICKS, NO PRICES FROM. THE PRICES YOU SEE ARE THE PRICES YOU PAY

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Contact Ian Sheppard m: 07701 008431 e: Iansheppard12@btinternet.com www.iansheppard-functionaltraining.com

BUILDERS

ALEXANDER RODWAY C CARPENTERS A R P E N T AND E R S B U I OF L DSTAMFORD E R S BUILDERS OF STAMFO CARPENTRY R D

& ! ! % ( $ ' "$! " #! " Call Alex for help and advice - Fully insured skilled tradesman <<

A ; Tel:01780 754189 Mob:07711311724 Email: alex@rodwaybuilders.co.uk #09:?@9 ?>=:@A & 09??::<::?;= www.rodway-builders.co.uk $ #0 1(& - /7 * %* (% *1 &$

01780 765853 or text 07913 052159 office@alternativesstamford.co.uk Alternatives Stamford, Hospital site, Ryhall Road, Stamford PE9 1YA

Friends/Partners Welcome www.alternativesstamford.co.uk

CLEANING

Domestic and business cleaning services. Daily, weekly, fortnightly, monthly cleans.

End of tenancy, March outs, Carpet cleaning,Tailor made plans.

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FUEL

LOG BURNING STOVES

SPECIALISTS IN THE SUPPLY AND FITTING OF PREFABRICATED CHIMNEY SYSTEMS AND LOG BURNING STOVES.

Why does the computer always play up in the evenings when the repair shops are shut?

Help available until 9pm including weekends.

Computer repair and support for home and business A complete service for all your computing needs

Bill & Sue Crowe Tel: 01780 754043 Mob: 07766833076 www.bcit.co.uk Email: bill@bcit.co.uk

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S TA M F O R D M U LT I F U E L S TO V E S

Loft Conversions - Garden Offices â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Kitchen & Bathrooms ) 3 * % 6 * (&&$) Solid & * &%, () Wood Flooring&%) 2 ( % (recommended installer for Welland Valley Timber) &# && #&&( % 4( &$$ % %)* ## ( &( ## % ## / PLASTERING% &-) 6 # % ) $ (5 3 #+. 6 "(& Dry Lining

- Skimming Boarding (/ plastering: % % 2 " Venetian $$ % & ( % plaster Decorative polished &( * , '# )* ( % 0 % * % '&# ) '# )* ( BUILDING

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M: 07710 827371 T: 01780 783315 MOT

www.stamfordmultifuelstoves.co.uk

HETAS REGISTERED

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PLUMBING

MOWER SERVICE

Mower Service

S REPAIR PARTS

• • • •

SALES E SERVIC HIRE

T: 01780 482039

www.plumbingstamford.co.uk

FENTONS

BOURNE

OF LTD Kates Bridge, Thurlby, Bourne, Linc, PE10 0EN T: 01778 560466 / 560425 F: 01778 560842 E: glen@fentonsofbourne.co.uk www.fentonsofbourne.co.uk

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I’d like to work from home

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Jonathan Tyers T: 01780 753724 M: 07730 096883

OIL SERVICES

E: stamfordproroof@ gmail.com www.proroofstamford.co.uk

• Oil Boiler Servicing • Oil Boiler Repairs • Oil Boiler Installations • Up to 8 Year Warranty

• Felt Roofing • Guttering • Chimney Repairs • UPVC Fascias • Fibreglass Flat Roofs • Tiling & Slating

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ADVICE H E L P, W I T H E X P E R T TE ACXA N H E L P E HCAATN WW EVER YOUR THINKING W

Jason Musgrove Traditional Slater & Builder

www.plumbingstamford.co.uk

07952 687988 Tel/Fax 01780 444019 jasonmusgrove@btinternet.com

OVEN CLEANING

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Do you want the fairies to clean your oven?

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SECURITY

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For more information call 01733 343 275 36 Tyndall Court, Commerce Road, Lynchwood, Peterborough, PE2 6LR.

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Ovens, Ranges, Agas, Hobs, Extractors, Microwaves, Start from £39 Fridges, FreezersPrices & BBQ’s • Prices start from £42 T: 01572 767678 M: 07785 987112 t. 01572W: 767678 - m. 07785 987112 www.ovenfairy.co.uk Ovens, Ranges, Agas, Hobs, Extractors, Microwaves, Fridges, Freezers & BBQs

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1st Call County taxis local taxis service t: 01780765906 m: 07940225514 Fixed rates on all out of town work guaranteed when pre booked Airports, Seaports, Contract 6 Seater, 4 Seater Taxis

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Contact: 01778 571693 07434960990

• Installation of wood burning stoves.

• Domestic biomass installations.

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Kiln Dried Hardwood

Call us now for a free no obligation quotation.

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19/03/2015 15:58

STAMFORD PEOPLE

EHSAN HUSSAIN; Independent Community Pharmacist, Stamford Pharmacy Words & Photographs: Harjit Gammon

LEFT TO RIGHT: EHSAN HUSSAIN, RACHEL COMPTON (DISPENSING ASSISTANT) & MOHAMMED TASEEN.

O

FTEN chance discoveries are the greatest of pleasures, reaffirming the difference small finds can make. So it was that I discovered Ehsan Hussain at the Stamford Pharmacy. Though Ehsan has run Stamford Pharmacy for approaching 14months, and I have often walked past the shop, stopping to admire their growing collection of antique medical paraphernalia in the windows, I’ve had little need of their services, until a recent visit to the GP with one of the children only to realise that the high street chemists would be closed.

Imagine my relief then that the Stamford Pharmacy (opposite Wharf Road on St Mary’s Hill), the first independent community chemists in Stamford for 15 years, was still open. Even more pleasing was encountering the owner and one of two resident pharmacists, Ehsan Hussain. Ehsan is, in an age of often impersonal (yet much vaunted importance of customer service), the very embodiment of personal service. He has to be one of the gentlest and most genuinely caring of people in his profession. With a ready smile, softly spoken and friendly demeanour, he has that most desired quality of immediately engaging in a very personal way with his customers. Customers, whom he regards as friends, and who, as I witnessed when I went to interview him, quite clearly regard him as the same. Addressing people by name, he recalls their ‘problems’, enquiring not only after their health but more general matters which have clearly been divulged and shared with him. In return customers enquire after his mother, who has had health problems of her own.

As an independent pharmacist a condition of his NHS contract is that he must open a punishing 100 hours a week (24 hours a day from 8am Monday to 7pm Thursday, 7am till 7pm Friday, 8am till 1pm Saturday, Closed Sunday). That he is still as cheerful and caring is a testament to his devotion to patient care. An outstanding student, he graduated from the

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University of Bradford with a First class Masters degree, going on to work for Boots where he quickly rose up the managerial ladder. However, the increasing lack of patient contact, which he relished, troubled him. “I felt my clinical expertise was being eroded, as my responsibilities assumed an increasingly profit based role,” he explains. He seems to have found his medium however at the Stamford Pharmacy. Working co-operatively with existing pharmacy provision in Stamford and with local GPs, he has complemented their services. New services are offered in response to patient need, rather than to meet targets, with the emphasis on going the extra mile to ensure the patient experience in the pharmacy is of an exemplary standard.

So for example he is able to complement the “brilliant” out of hours GP provision at Ryhall Road by dispensing prescriptions to patients seen there, as well as at late surgeries at St Mary’s Medical Centre and The Little Surgery. He offers a free of charge repeat prescription delivery service in Stamford for the immobile, elderly and disabled, and has often helped to quickly source drugs for the other town pharmacies due to his extensive drug supplier base; he has six suppliers versus their solus suppliers. Moreover with around 30-40% of appointments with nurses at GP practices these days Ehsan and his team are able to offer advice to patients, particularly in the evenings and at weekends, and especially to those who are working and therefore unable to visit their GP. Both Ehsan and fellow pharmacist Monica Masca, who has shouldered most of the evening and night sessions, are intent upon on-going improvements to their clinical expertise with both on the road to achieving Independent Prescriber status.

So pop in and experience somewhere where they have the time (an upside of the 100 hour opening) and personal interest to help to you, or simply to say hello as so many of their customer friends already do.

STAMFORD LIVING APRIL 2015

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