Stamford Living October 2014 by Best Local Living

Loving where we live!

STAMFORD LIVING www.stamfordliving.co.uk

@LocalLivingUK

Featuring: Urban Fashion Skincare Autumn Inspirations Gardening for Kids Fine Art in Stamford Local Gyms Brewers Galore Inventor Colin Furze Learning Interior Design

Faces of Stamford The Wool Room Ramble in Letchworth Fantastic Local Food Activities for October

ESSENTIAL EATING OUT GUIDUES: THE BEST MENAS! THIS CHRISTM

Photography Competition Winners!

OCTOBER 2014 ÂŁ1.50

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All images are local installations by Orchard.

More Choice, More Style, More You Conservatory Showroom 1 Meadow View, Uffington Road, Stamford, PE9 2EX Open: Monday to Friday 8am – 5pm Saturday 9am – 1pm T: 01780 753343 F: 01780 482926 E: orchardwindows@live.co.uk

Kitchen Showroom 22-23 Scotgate, Stamford, PE9 2YQ Open: Monday to Friday 9am – 5pm Saturday 10am – 3pm T: 01780 481850 F: 01780 481132 E: orchardkitchens@live.co.uk

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STAMFORD LIVING

October Contents www.stamfordliving.co.uk

@LocalLivingUK UPDATES, SHOPPING

MEADOWS UNDER THREAT A planning application has been submitted to build a massive modern house at the bottom of Austin Friars Lane on the Meadows alongside the Freemans’ Cottages. It would be the first house to be built on The Meadows for 175+ years and could set a terrible precedent for further encroachments, irrevocably damaging one of Stamford’s finest ‘green spaces’. It could set in train a whole set of speculative applications along the millstream, running all the way from Rutland Terrace and Water Furlong to Tinwell Rd. The fundamental reason to object to this application was summed up very well in the verdict of the appeal finding last time planning permission was thrown out in 2006: “In my view it is impossible to draw any visual distinction between the appeal site and the greater area of the Town Meadows. Views of the site can come and go as the meadows are crossed on the many footpaths that criss-cross the area and no doubt as the seasons and leaf cover change. But overall I consider that the extraordinary beauty and character of the Town Meadows would be seriously compromised by the encroachment into the appeal site that would result from permitting even this well designed building. Thus great harm would accrue to an almost unique townscape feature that forms a major physical element of an attractive and historical town.” If you feel strongly about this, and want to express your view either way, you can view the full application, No: S14/2264 at www. southkesteven.gov.uk/planning. You can then comment by email or write. You have until Thu Oct 2nd.

Nicholas Rudd-Jones 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 01780 480409 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 images: Faces of Stamford Winners by www.shutterboxphotography.co.uk

5 Editor’s Selection 24 Updates: Oundle Travel; Lianne Aquilina’s new book; Nigel Rhodes Fine Art opens 39 Updates: Big Biology Day; Project Denim; SES School Choir 49 Faces of Stamford Competition results 51 Updates: Chalk Interiors competition; Bathroom Store in Bourne 58 Updates: Sew Studio; Clarity4D

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY 8 Fashion: Cathedral to Fashion 12 Health & Beauty: Hypnotherapy and the Skincare Centre

HOME, GARDEN, MOTORING, TRAVEL 17 37 37 46

Design Trends: Autumnal Colours Design: Dora Designs Property: Choice Move Design Solutions: Clever, creative storage

FOOD & DRINK 29 Food & Drink: Festive menus and venues 40 Great Food Club: Local ales map of the region 65 Eating Out: Exeter Arms; Nevill Arms 67 Food & Drink: Olive Branch recipe 69 Food & Drink: Belvoir Ridge Creamery

ACTIVITIES, CULTURE, LEARNING & BUSINESS 20 Kids’: What’s On; Gardening for Children 27 Which gym is best for you? 44 Business profile: Chris Tattersall, Co-Owner of The Wool Room 55 Local walk: Polebrook Nr. Oundle 60 Urban Ramble: Letchworth Garden City 71 What’s On

PEOPLE & PLACES

34 Profile: Colin Furze, inventor 56 People: Hegarty’s 40th anniversary; William Bourne, tennis player 75 Ask Leo: Ann Wright, textile artist 78 Stamford People: Anthony Partington, new Principal of Stamford Welland Academy

Subscribe to Stamford Living For only £20 (UK only) you can subscribe to Stamford Living for a year (12 issues). Please send your name, address and a cheque made out to Local Living Ltd to: SL Subscriptions, PO Box 208, Stamford, PE9 9FY Or you can subscribe via the website at www.stamfordliving.co.uk STAMFORD LIVING OCTOBER 2014

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Independant . . . your local estate agent!

goodwinpropertyservices.co.uk

Five reasons that set us apart : • Being one of the most recognisable and popular brands in the area provides us with a competitive edge.

• A local branch with local people - we know the residents, the schools and the area.

• Our central location within Stamford Town Goodwin Property Services, led by Robert Goodwin and Simon Burton, have built their reputation, living and working in Stamford for over 40 years. The local market needs that local knowledge to truly assess values, market forces of supply and demand, relevant technology and marketing techniques as well as the numerous other issues involved in the buying and selling process, making our experience invaluable. The unique combination of experience we have at our disposal really does mean we can provide levels of advice, in terms of using property for investment or retirement planning, that is difficult to match. If you are thinking of going this route drop in for a chat and we will explain more.

centre means we are perfectly placed to ensure all our properties receive maximum exposure.

• Our independent status means we have the

ability to adapt to the changing market and the needs of our clients.

• We have dedicated specialists to advise on

all aspects of Residential Sales, Lettings and Financial Services.

Being recognised as the area’s leading independent agent is also something we value highly. The ability to change direction quickly as and when the need arises should not be undervalued. We are not target driven but want to act in our client’s best interests at all times. You are dealing with the people who run the company and really care about what you think. Our reputation is very important to us. We really do feel that openness and honesty are two of the greatest tools at our disposal, and when combined with our degree of professionalism, we offer a service that is hard to be beaten. Whether you are buying, selling or letting, why not let us help you. All you need to do is contact us : call, email or visit the website and we’ll do the rest!

•

goodwin

www.goodwinpropertyservices.co.uk

Residential Sales • Lettings • Mortgages

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

goodwinpropertyservices.co.uk 4

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Editor’s Selection

Stamford Apple Day

Katie Cardew Map of Stamford Reader Offer

Sat Oct 4, Stamford Arts Centre, 10-4 Stamford hosts one of the country’s largest Apple Day events, attracting over a thousand visitors on the day. This year is set to be bigger and better than ever! This is because the group is one step closer to finding the Stamford Pippin. The apple has been sent off for further investigation and local experts feel that this could be the biggest find in decades. Experts will be on-hand to identify the apples that people bring along on the day - hoping to find some of the long-lost Stamford apple varieties; and they will be dispensing invaluable advice to people on how to sort out problems and look after the apple trees in your gardens.

£85, reduced from £95. Email info@kcillustrations.co.uk referencing Stamford Living. 18x18”, printed on 5mm Dibond aluminium. Also vailable as giclée framed prints. The giclée print range, to be found at www.kcillustrations.co.uk , includes the Burghley best sellers ‘Hare’, ‘Pheasant Shoot’, ‘Grouse Shoot’ and ‘Barn Hill, Stamford’. Katie also takes commissions for: Houses, with pets and families outside if requested; Dogs; Horse and riders; Wedding venues with bride and groom, wedding car etc; Country pursuits, including chaps out on pheasant/grouse shoots. Turnaround time is approx. 4-5 weeks but booking commissions early for Christmas is advisable!

Flawless Faces Charity Run Neeta and team are doing the fun run at the Perkins Great Eastern Run on Sun 12 Oct and raising money for Peterborough hospital breast unit. Please come to the salon to sponsor them. Also, 10% off all treatments in October will be donated to the breast unit too. To book call 0844 999 3365 Book online and download price list at www.flawlessfaces.co.uk Please help this unit! They are doing great things for cancer patients!

Swimming goggles

£12, Precision Sports, 9 North St, Stamford, PE9 1EH Tel: 01780 575818

Jimmy Choo mini snakeskin “Rebel” bag RRP £850; Arch Label Agency price £350

STAMFORD LIVING OCTOBER 2014

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This traditional stone built two bedroom home sits in an enviable position within walking distance to the train station and town centre. The accommodation comprises of an entrance hall, kitchen, cloakroom, sitting room with revealed stone wall, two bedrooms and first floor bathroom. The property further benefits from off street parking. Viewing highly recommended to avoid disappointment. EPC- D

The Old Rectory is a fine example of a Grade II Listed four bedroom family home in a sought after rural location. The property has been lovingly restored throughout retaining many original period features. Accommodation briefly comprises of entrance hall, dining room, sitting room, drawing room, kitchen/breakfast room, various ancillary rooms, five/six bedrooms and three bathrooms. To the exterior are various outbuildings and substantial garaging and well as beautifully landscaped gardens

3 Star Lane, Stamford, Lincolnshire PE9 1PH | 01780 754737 www.sowdenwallis.co.uk | info@sowdenwallis.co.uk | @sowdenwallis

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

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The The English Company The EnglishLimestone Limestone Company Company English Limestone Duddington Workshops Workshops Duddington Duddington Workshops

Repairing, Restoring and Conserving

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Bespoke solid oak wine racks hand crafted from reclaimed beams.

CUSTOM ORDERS WELCOMED The Fallen Tree @thefallentreeUK www.thefallentree.co.uk info@thefallentree.co.uk

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•&knowledge Identification & matching our locally established Architectural Stonemasons Stone Conservators Locally established established Stonemasons with extensive extensive knowledge Locally Stonemasons with and practise practise of of Traditional Traditional Building Building Skills and Materials Materials of stonemasonry and lime and specialise in Skills and

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replacement of damaged stonemasonry "Gutter Cleaning Service" • Lime mortar re-pointing Latest, specialist vacuum cleaning system accesses heights and difficult areas.Video gutters andextensive condition of building. Locally establishedrecording Stonemasons with knowledge info@englishlimestonecompany.co.uk info@englishlimestonecompany.co.uk and practise of Traditional Building Skills and Materials

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Company registered in England & Wales, Company registration no.: 8015539

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FASHION

Here comes

AUTUMN There are six main autumn winter looks, which can glide perfectly into your existing wardrobe. Sally Stillingfleet has gathered up the key trends and shows you how a few additions can keep you on the straight and narrow Photography by Elli Dean www.ellideanphotography.co.uk

new dress with a strong shape, especially in red, worn with knee high boots. A new pair of well-cut trousers showing the ankle and with fabulous pointed leather brogues. A folksy vibe can be created with clashing prints and colourful twists; a dress which feels like flocked wallpaper is the perfect place to start. The ‘Biker Chic’ theme has really taken off, but a softer approach can be just as appealing, worn with tight jeggings. Prints are key, especially anything animal. Finally take comfort with winter woollens, 3D textures and soft shapes – cosy up, here comes Autumn! Peterborough Cathedral has been the beautiful, often overlooked setting for our forward thinking fashion feature, renowned as being one of the finest Norman cathedrals in England. Leading up to the 900th anniversary of the Cathedral in 2018, a major fund-raising campaign is underway to pay for projects that will enable the Cathedral to offer greater accessibility to a wide variety of visitors, enhance its musical provision, and fund future maintenance of its ancient fabric. It is open 364 days a year and is enjoyed by thousands of visitors annually. Admission is free for individuals and guided tours are available. Tower tours to the higher levels of the building run on selected dates between April and October. For more details, visit www.peterborough-cathedral.org. uk or call 01733 355315.

New Trousers Red sweater £49, trousers £89 both French Connection. Black Ted Baker handbag £149 all John Lewis. Pointed toe brogues £136.99 Marcia May Shoes.

Biker

60s style dress Red Gambattista dress £150 Arch, worn with Black suede Geox boots £160 Marcia May Shoes.

Grey lace Mint Velvet biker jacket £79 worn with Collection by John Lewis black top £29, Fiorelli red bag £89 all John Lewis. Pleather stretch jeggings £30 Energy. Polar Monte biker boots £99.99 Marcia May Shoes.

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Folk Almost Famous dress £160, scarf £20 both Attic. Maison Scotch cardigan £190 Energy

Leopard Print Print dress £65 Seaweed, worn with jeggings as before and Louboutins £150 from Arch.

Cosy knits Maison Scotch sweater £130, matching scarf £75 and hat £50, Grey Demi Curve Levi’s £95 all Energy. Grey Esprit scarf £30 Attic.

CONTACTS John Lewis – Queensgate Centre, Peterborough. Tel: 01733 344644 Energy – 9 Ironmonger St. Stamford. Tel: 01780 765633 Attic – 33 St. Mary’s Street, Stamford. Tel: 01780 766667 Arch Label Agency – 43 St. Peter’s Street, Stamford. Tel: 01780 764746 Seaweed – 8 St Mary’s Hill, Stamford. Tel: 01780 767878 Marcia May Shoes 41 St. Mary’s St, Stamford Tel. 01780 766608 Many thanks to Sarah for modelling and to Stacey Bailey (Tel: 07711 383926) for doing Sarah’s hair. Thanks to Peterborough Cathedral for making us feel very welcome. Pictures by www.ellideanphotography.co.uk STAMFORD LIVING OCTOBER 2014

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Advertisement Feature

The Salon 3 celebrate their expansion Emily, Anne and Michelle are pleased to welcome new members to the team as they celebrate the opening of their express beauty bar and increase the chairs in the hair salon.

SALON OF THE YEAR

VOTED BY READER S OF THE MERCURY, THE LO CAL & RUTLAND TIMES

ince moving to St Mary’s Hill two years ago, The Salon 3 has continued to grow, with clients old and new enjoying the expert care and atmosphere of this friendly salon. With the conversion complete downstairs they can now offer a range of treatments in the express beauty bar, so transforming all who walk through their doors from head to toe. New senior stylists to the team are: Jacob, who has relocated from Denmark; Natalie who has 14 years’ hairdressing in the local area; and

Ella, who has returned to work after having a baby two years ago. Experienced beauty therapist Sabina completes the new team. • The Salon 3, 14 St Mary’s Hill, Stamford, PE9 2DR Tel: 01780 765505 www.thesalon3.co.uk Find us on

Find us on twitter

£5 OFF Manicure & Pedicure with Gel Polish (offer ends 31.10.14)

£10 OFF Hair*

*Redeemable against any service over £30 and with Ella, Jacob, Sophie & Natalie. T&C apply. Not available with any other offer or against products. Offer ends 31.10.14

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CAN I IGNORE MISSING TEETH?

Attractive, healthy teeth help us feel our best and enjoy the foods we love. However, missing one or more teeth can also effect your quality of life. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t ignore missing teeth. Each tooth plays an important role in your overall health. At Bridge House Dental Practice we offer over 20 years experience in providing Nobel Biocare Dental Implants, retentive Valplast Partial Dentures and Zirconia All Ceramic Bridges. Jonathan Cliffe is accredited with a Masters Degree in Dental Implantology (MMedSci, Sheffield).

Visit bridgedentistry.co.uk or call us on 01778 342215 to find out more

Bridge Foot, Market Deeping, Peterborough PE6 8AA 11

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HEALTH & BEAUTY

Hypnotherapy at the Broad Street Practice Genevieve Potter finds out the facts about hypnotherapy and checks out if it works for her

avid Balfe joined Stamford’s Broad Street Practice as their resident hypnotherapy expert in July this year. A highly qualified hypnotherapist with 14 years’ experience, he is a man on a mission to help a diverse range of people overcome David Balfe problems where emotional or psychological forces are involved. Keen to find out more, I went along to meet David. I was instantly reassured that the old image of being “put under” by a stage hypnotherapist has no credence these days, with many G.P.s referring patients for hypnotherapy in conjunction with more conventional medicine. Hypnosis is simply a way of relaxing deeply and tuning in to your thoughts and emotions. During hypnosis, you’re aware of everything that is going on around you - it’s a little bit like a state of day dreaming, or as a client of David described it “the nearest thing to being asleep without being asleep”. There’s more than one method of hypnotherapy and David practices two main types. David routinely (and very successfully) treats many people using suggestion therapy. This is where a new way of behaving is suggested to the individual, so that the mind can act upon it. This in turn changes behaviour patterns, effectively re-writing the recording in their

“I was instantly reassured that the old image of being “put under” by a stage hypnotherapist has no credence these days, with many G.P.s referring patients for hypnotherapy in conjunction with more conventional medicine.” 12

mind and often, in just a couple of hour long sessions, eliminating habit-based problems such as smoking or getting stressed out before examinations. For more serious problems and phobias, David uses a different technique called hypnoanalysis (also known as analytical therapy). He explained that people have a “bank” of emotions and sometimes this bank can literally seem to overflow, with symptoms such as depression or serious phobias taking over. Hypno-analysis uses psychotherapy and hypnosis together, not to suppress the symptoms, but to look for the underlying causes and to ask why that person has the symptom in the first place. This usually means that David will work with a client, commonly for between six and eight sessions, identifying and resolving events which have very often been experienced in early life. Even seemingly trivial events are often uncovered during this process, and because they may not be major traumas, they have previously been brushed away. Once the cause has been identified, it can be talked about and eliminated during hypnosis, freeing the patient from conditions that can seriously impact their quality of life. David carried out a session of simple suggestion hypnotherapy to help me relax and feel more centred (no mean feat when I’d

been run ragged working and simultaneously preparing for the start of a new school term). My biggest concern was that I would be unable to switch off and that my mind would wander on to my lengthy to-do lists. However David explained that I shouldn’t worry if this did happen, as the hypnotherapy would still be effective. I’m pleased to report that it was a fantastic experience. I was totally aware of my surroundings and everything that David was saying to me, yet felt extremely calm; I’d describe it as a potent mixture of relaxation and heightened awareness. The only slightly strange sensation was that at the end of the 50 minute session it only felt like David had been speaking for 10 or 15 minutes. Afterwards I definitely had a greater sense of peace and whilst those to-do lists were still present, they were definitely less daunting. David welcomes all new clients for a free initial consultation. Hypnotherapy sessions at the Broad Street Practice cost £55 per hour. • David Balfe www.ketteringhypnotherapy.com Tel: 01536 350328 • The Broad Street Practice www.thebroadstreetpractice.co.uk 20-21 Broad St, Stamford PE9 1PG Tel: 01780 480889

STAMFORD LIVING OCTOBER 2014

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HEALTH & BEAUTY FOCUS ON:

The Electrolysis and Skincare Studio Genevieve Potter takes a look at one of Stamford’s newest beauty emporiums

tamford’s newest beauty emporium is nestled in the picturesque George Hotel Mews. Partners Carolyn Claypole and Amy Nicholson are well established within Stamford’s beauty scene and both have a wealth of experience and a loyal base of clients. Amy is a trained Environ therapist – Environ being one of the world’s most advanced skin care brands. Developed by South African surgeon Dr Desmond Fernandes two decades ago, the ‘magic bullet’ within the products is Vitamin A, which re-densifies and refines the skin and will benefit every age and life stage.

The basic Environ range – AVST – steps up from levels one to five, allowing skin to become comfortable with increased levels of vitamin A. Facials with Amy start at £34 for a 45 minute, introductory session, going right through to the acclaimed Ionzyme facial, which uses the Environ DFII machine to maximise penetration of the products (£78 for 90 minutes). The studio also stocks sister brand Advanced Nutrition Programme supplements, for beauty that starts from the inside. I recently met Environ Business Development Consultant Rachel Moss, who works closely with Amy and her clients, educating them on how to make their skin the very best that it can be. I asked Rachel what makes Environ different to other, better-known beauty brands. “It’s much more scientific and it works! Environ is made from pharmaceutical grade ingredients, containing the only active vitamins and antioxidants which are able to affect and improve the skin. Everything is manufactured in our own controlled conditions and the products

come in airless pump dispensers. Our unique step-up programme also means that you won’t get good results and then stall; you can keep on adapting your skin regime so that your skin gets better and better over time. “ Explaining that Environ can work for people who may not have a big budget, Rachel’s musthave product is the AVST1 moisturiser, which at £36 works for both day and evening and will in itself start to deliver smoother, clearer, more youthful looking skin. Rachel is a firm believer that great skin starts on the inside, as has been proven by the Advanced Nutrition programme Accumax capsules, for treating acne. “This is a fantastic alternative to antibiotics which do control acne, but can compromise the skin’s structure and cause side effects. With Accumax, high doses of Vitamin A, C and E plus a phytonutrient that’s naturally found in broccoli, regulate the hormone imbalance that causes acne and the results are transformational; particularly when used in conjunction with the Environ range to control oil production, bacteria and clear dead skin cells.” Finally, I asked Rachel about what’s coming next in the Environ range: “It’s a really exciting time for us; there is a new product launching over the coming months called the Environ revival mask – it has been four years in development and trials and it’s already being hailed as a face lift in a bottle!” Carolyn Claypole is a member of the British Institute & Association of Electrolysis and has both practised and trained other electrolysis professionals for many years. Electrolysis is

still the only proven method of completely permanent hair removal and it uses a very fine needle to remove hair, usually from small areas of the face and body. When carried out by a professional like Carolyn, it’s a safe and hygienic treatment that shouldn’t cause any real discomfort at all. What isn’t so commonly known is that electrolysis can also be used to remove the “lumps and bumps” that most people put up with, simply because they don’t realise that they can be easily treated. Carolyn can carefully remove skin tags, blood spots, and thread veins on the face and body - clients often come to her a few months before a holiday to have skin tags and blood spots removed from the body, or at the other end of the spectrum, to have a skin tag around the eye removed when a doctor has been unable to treat this, because of a lack of resource or expertise. As an additional service, Carolyn can give people back incredibly natural-looking permanent eyebrows using the latest techniques to create semi-permanent brows, to transform the looks of people who might have lost, or over-plucked their brows. Every person is unique and will have very different requirements, so Carolyn sees every new client for a free (and very friendly) consultation prior to treating them. Electrolysis & Skincare Studio The George Hotel Mews Stamford, PE9 2LB Tel: 01780 763620 www.escstudio.co.uk STAMFORD LIVING OCTOBER 2014

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R STY EQ L U IST IR ED

LOCAL PRIVATE CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGISTS Specialising in treating: • Low self-esteem and loss of confidence • Low mood, depression, self-harm and suicidal thinking • Anxieties, phobias, obsessions and ruminations • Significant life events, trauma, nightmares, flashbacks • Attachment and relationship difficulties • Abuse (physical, emotional and sexual)

Mojo’s will be having an extensive re-fit, inside and out. The salon will be closed from 13th October and re opens 23rd October.

November oﬀers; •

Tel: 01780 758556 www.psychologistuk.co.uk

Keratin Straightening £150 with free 250ml shampoo and conditioner with Jess and Lauren only (does not include Saturdays)

•

Colour, cut and blow dry with Jess £48

Child and Adult Speciality, EMDR Practitioner

•

Adult Speciality

Johan Truter

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

Dr Alexandra Dent

Mbl: 07986 585270 www.alexandradent.co.uk

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

Treatment, cut and blow dry with Lauren £35

Book now for Christmas party hair ups to avoid dissapointment

Like our Facebook page for current offers. 1A Iron Mongers St. Stamford, PE9 2PL T: 01780 757070

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and

Gift Sets

Available in Salon from 6th October!

sp o i l y o u rsel f y o u d ese r v e it . . .

Monday & Saturday Open 9am – 6pm Tuesday - Friday Open 9am – 9pm

25% OFF

your 1st visit discount hair voucher if you have not visited our salons in the last 12 months. Please bring this voucher with you to your appointment

To Book An Appointment Call 0844 999 3365 or book online at www.browns-hair.co.uk & visit our website for more promotions and salon information

Red Lion Square, Stamford, PE9 2AJ 15

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Are you in the dark ?..

WE CAN PROVIDE THE LIGHT Lumison Lighting are specialist in all aspects of contemporary and traditional lighting

We have an extensive range of conventional and LED products suitable for Residential and Commercial properties We also offer a complete design and installation service www.lumisonlighting.co.uk Tel: 01536 770091 info@lumisonlighting.co.uk

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

Find us at... 32 St Maryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Street, Stamford, PE9 2DS.

Tel. 01780 751551

www.camillasnowinteriors.com

16 North Street, Stamford, PE9 1EH

01780 481416 www.jlball.co.uk

Timeless Quality

I can supply your dream kitchen from drawing board through to installation by a team of highly qualified and experienced craftsmen.Great brands at good prices from a business with 30 years experience. Let our team fulfil your dream. 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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DESIGN IDEAS

Animal Patterns Wooden Heart Bowls, £38 Set of Three from Chalk Interiors

As the darker nights draw in, the wildlife motif is still hugely popular with designers this autumn with woodland creatures featuring strongly through housewares, stationery and fashion. Here’s our pick of the best, nature-inspired autumnal goodies from local independent retailers; so cuddle up by the fireside and enjoy some cosy fabrics and warm textures this month. Photography by Elli Dean www.ellideanphotography.co.uk

Owl porcelain mug, £10 from Paradise Found

Boxing Hare Sculptures, £49 from Delcor Fox and Stag Journals, £10 each from Paradise Found Sew Heart Felt Fox and Mouse Slippers, £45 and £25 respectively from You Living and Giving

Glen Lodge Side Plate by Spode, £10 from Lambs. Full dinner service available

Wildlife Themed door and drawer handles, from £2.75 each, Chalk Interiors

Fireside Log Basket, £29 and Vegetable Dyed Hand Woven Kelim £99, from Sack Store at Stamford Garden Centre

Bone China Mug by Valentina Lou, £16.99 from Perfect Presents Gift Shop Fox Cub Pendant Shade £45 from Snow Designs and Interiors Trook Tree Hooks £10.50 each, and Fridge Magnet Hook £14.95, from Snow Designs and Interiors STAMFORD LIVING OCTOBER 2014

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Conserve-a-Room love the space you live all year round!

With the Conserve-a-Room system there is no need to abandon your FRQVHUYDWRU\ IRU PRVW RI WKH \HDU 7KH SUREOHP ZLWK PDQ\ FRQVHUYDWRULHV LV WKDW WKH\ FDQ JHW WRR KRW LQ WKH VXPPHU DQG WRR FROG LQ WKH ZLQWHU 7KLV LV EHFDXVH WKH Conservatories can be too hot in the summer and too cold in the winter VWDQGDUG SRO\FDUERQDWH URRI V\VWHPV KDYH YLUWXDOO\ QR this is because the standard polycarbonate roof systems have virtually no LQVXODWLQJ SURSHUWLHV *OD]HG URRI FRQVHUYDWRULHV DQG HYHQ URRI EOLQGV PDNH OLWWOH insulating properties. Glazed roof conservatories and even roof blinds difference. make little difference.

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FREE 4 Drawers Was £1499.95

Now £899.95

Disposal of O

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ACTIVITIES

Child Friendly S Antonia Scott finds out what activities are going on locally to keep your little ones happy NCT CLASSES

The National Childbirth Trust is the UK’s largest charity for parents, set up to support parents and give them accurate, impartial information so they can decide what’s best for their family. The NCT classes that are available nationwide are vitally important for expectant and new parents to meet a network of local parents to gain practical and emotional support. Simply put in your postcode and due date on the website: www.nct.org.uk/courses to find your nearest class. Each branch runs various events and regular ‘nearly new sales’: Bourne - Baby First Aid Course on Saturday 18th October - Price £25 per person or £40 per couple. Course facilitated by fully qualified instructor in paediatric and infant first aid. Some of the topics covered: • Unconscious baby or child (breathing or not breathing) • Choking • Bleeding • Burns • Raised Temperatures • Meningitis • Febrile Seizure The October baby first aid course was so popular that another has been added on Saturday 29th November in Bourne - 10am- 12.30pm Limited spaces available. Price £25 per person or £40 per couple. Stamford - ‘Bumps, Babies and Beyond’ group is on the first Friday of every month at 10am at All Saints’ and St Johns Church Hall, Stamford. For more information, email: stamfordnctchair@yahoo.com

SOFT PLAY

The Yard, in Unit 2, West Street, Stamford not only hosts Dinky Dancers, Baby Massage, and Hypno Birthing, but on Wed 8th –Thurs 9th October, Bea’s Boutique which sells an eclectic mix of beautiful new and vintage children’s clothing (0-10 years), books, wooden and soft toys, maternity wear and handmade gifts, is holding a 2 day ‘pop-up shop’ in the party room. For more information: www.theyardstamford. co.uk

YOGA/MASSAGE/SENSORY

Birthlight Yoga for Pregnancy – Run by Julie Bickerton, pregnancy yoga classes provide women with a safe environment in which to explore their feelings and to adapt to the changes in their bodies. Women are empowered to feel confident in their ability to give birth. The various postures or movements bring awareness of the birthing muscles involved with pregnancy and birth and provide more space for the baby, often alleviating many

All activities are at the Wildcats Academy, Castle House, St Peter’s Street, Stamford and run from 9.30am - 4.00pm. Lunch and drinks are required. To book call 01780 762000.

SWIMMING

Toddler Splash: every Wednesday between 9.30am-10.30am at Stamford Leisure Centre, Drift Road, Stamford.

CHILDREN’S PARTIES

pregnancy discomforts. Every class ends with a deep relaxation allowing the body to release tensions and the mind to become still, leaving both mother and baby feeling nourished with renewed energy. You will learn relaxation and breathing techniques, yoga, massage, movement and sound to help prepare and empower you for labour. Courses are £50 and run for 5 weeks at The Guide Hall, Conduit Road, Stamford, from 6.30pm – 8.30pm. For more information: julie@babynomad.net Tel: 07894 468224 Baby Sensory: Parents and their babies (birth to 13 months) can now enjoy award winning Baby Sensory classes in Stamford on Mondays. Parents can join at any time. Sessions run weekly at All Saints’ and St John’s Church Hall 10am (7-13 Months), 11:30am (Birth-6 Months) £50 per term. Please contact Kerry Nicholls for more details on 07847 613780, email corby@babysensory. co.uk or visit www.babysensory.com

Sacrewell Farm is a firm favourite with children all year round so make the most of frequent visits by purchasing a year’s pass, or host a birthday party in their function room. Prices start from £12.50 per child and includes: • two hours in your own sectioned off party area in the Play Barn (a choice of 11:30am–1:30pm or 2:30pm– 4:30pm); • a present for the birthday child; • free admission for two adults with the birthday child and one adult with each of the other party children; • a voucher for a free return visit for each child; • downloadable invitations and admission to the farm for the day. Sacrewell produces delicious party menus using locally sourced, handmade food. The farm is open every day from 9.30am – 5pm. For more information: www.sacrewell.org.uk or call 01780 782254.

DANCE

Wildcats Theatre School has a busy half term programme for children aged 5-13 years. Monday 27th - Tuesday 28th October (2 days): Create a Music Video - £45.00 per child for 2 days Monday 27th October: Strictly Come Dancing £22.50/child Tuesday 28th October: The Gruffalo and other stories - £22.50/child Wednesday 29th October: Bollywood Masterclass - £25/child Thursday 30th October: SpyKids - £22.50/child Friday 31st October: Halloween Party - £22.50/ child

STAMFORD LIVING OCTOBER 2014

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y Stamford GETTING THE KIDS INVOLVED IN GARDENING Antonia Scott catches up with 6 times Chelsea Gold Medal winner, Adam Frost to find out what autumnal joys we can get out and do in our gardens with our children

commonly known as Chinese Lantern. With its intriguing papery lanterns enclosing its bright orange autumn fruits, this looks fantastic with the lanterns threaded on string and made into an autumnal garland – a great project to keep the children occupied! The stems can also be cut for dried flower arrangements, or left on the plant where they add winter interest, slowly becoming ornate skeletons. Wild birds, particularly Fieldfares, will break these open to get to the fruit. However, beware as this plant is very invasive and best grown in a pot otherwise it will take over your borders! October is the ideal time for planting springflowering bulbs, especially daffodils. For a more natural look, throw the bulbs down and plant where they land. Plant out winter bedding such as wallflowers, forget-me-nots, Bellis, Primula, Polyanthus, Viola (winter pansies) and tulip bulbs for a spring display next year. Lily bulbs can still be planted in pots to flower next summer.

LEAVES AND LAWNS “October can be a great time to get out in the garden as there is still plenty to do before winter officially arrives. Autumn is a fantastic time of year with its kaleidoscope of colours and late-flowering plants. With the last school holiday half term to enjoy before Christmas, here are a few jobs that you can rope the kids into helping out with and enjoying together; anything that gets families outdoors and enjoying the garden has got to be good!”

October is probably your last chance to mow the lawn and trim your hedges too. It’s important to keep lawns free of falling leaves as much as possible - a great challenge for the kids is to see who can gather the most leaves to bag up - prizes for the person with the fullest bag! Keep tidying up those leaves from lawns and borders

Bug hotel

WILDLIFE

Wildlife always needs some help over the winter, so a great project for the kids is to build a bug hotel or shelter. By providing the right habitats we can greatly increase the number of beneficial insects in the garden. This is a great project to get the children involved with and helps teach them about the fragility of nature. Details and more information can be found on the RHS Campaign for School Gardening: http:// apps.rhs.org.uk/schoolgardening/uploads/ documents/making_a_bug_hotel_770.pdf

throughout autumn - you can add these to your compost heap if you have one. You should also raise containers onto pot feet or bricks to prevent water-logging now autumn downpours become more frequent. • For more information: www.adamfrost.co.uk

HALLOWEEN VEGETABLES

With Halloween on 31st October, look out for pumpkins to carve. The harvest continues throughout October, so get the kids involved in digging out the last of the autumn vegetables. Courgettes and carrots should be harvested before the month is out. Courgettes in particular will ruin in the frost, or be eaten by slugs if not removed now. Also remember, if you want to look forward to a crop of veggies in the spring, plant your spring cabbages now. If you have green tomatoes outdoors, then these will need to be brought indoors now that the frosts threaten them - they can be ripened up indoors if kept in a warm and sunny position. Fruit bushes also need to be pruned now and the last of the apples and pears should be picked this month.

PLANTS

A plant that really comes into its own at this time of year is Physalis alkekengi – more STAMFORD LIVING OCTOBER 2014

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LE D A S EE R AG

EXETER GARDENS, STAMFORD - £675,000 GUIDE PRICE

Knight Partnership is pleased to offer for sale this beautifully presented modern family home, built for the current owners in 2002. This impressive detached house is located on one of Stamford’s premier roads which is ideally situated offering good access to Stamford town and the A1 alike. The house is generously proportioned and provides well laid out and ﬂexible accommodation, brieﬂy comprising: Large reception hall, cloakroom, family room, lounge, kitchen dining family room, study, utility room. Landing, Master bedroom with dressing room and en-suite, bedroom two with en-suite, three further bedrooms and family bathroom, attic room. Outside there is a wide gravelled drive providing ample parking to the front and large established gardens with a single garage to the rear.

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.

LE D A S EE R AG

TICKENCOTE

ROMAN BANK, STAMFORD - £525,000

Knight Partnership is pleased to offer this beautifully presented four bedroom detached home situated on this much sought after road, within walking distance of the town centre. The property backs onto allotments and from the upstairs you will catch a glimpse of the fantastic views across the town. The house is well proportioned and offers flexible family accommodation briefly comprising: Entrance hall, spacious lounge, separate dining room, good sized conservatory, newly fitted kitchen, utility room and shower room. The landing leads to three bedrooms and bathroom and a fourth bedroom from an individual staircase. The property has gas central heating and uPVC double glazing. Outside is a garage with off road parking and a well tended rear garden mainly laid to lawn with patio area and borders.

£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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Thinking of selling in Stamford? can get you moving!

If you want to be in your new home for Christmas speak to us on 01780 765060 3 Red Lion Street, Stamford, Lincolnshire PE9 1PA Email: mailroom@knightpartnership.com

www.knightpartnership.com

If you have instructed another agent the terms and conditions of those instructions must be considered to avoid a possible liability to pay two commissions in addition 23 to any withdrawal fees or disbursements.

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UPDATES

Falling in Love in Paradise Y

our wedding is a once in a lifetime experience and will doubtless prove one of the happiest days of your life. The day itself goes so quickly, but with a dream honeymoon, you can make the magic last a little longer. Oundle Travel can help by starting a honeymoon gift service for their couples. Friends and family can either contribute to the cost of the trip or pay for extras like the day trips on the couple’s itinerary. “It’s just one way of reducing the stress of organising a wedding; let us take care of every little detail of your honeymoon, leaving you to enjoy a truly bespoke and unforgettable journey,” comments Paula Cockcroft.

Top Honeymoon Destinations

Seychelles

In January and February, warm up following your UK winter wedding with a honeymoon in the Maldives. During the UK’s cooler months, average temperatures range from 25°c to 29°c and the beaches are superb. Consider, too, Antigua or Mexico, which offer incredible weather as well as a landscape of incredible natural beauty. Crystal clear waters will prove nothing short of blissful, and a wealth of champagne and seafood will provide a sense of real luxury. February’s Rio’s Carnival makes Brazil a compelling destination, too, with plenty of life and colour. In the spring months, consider Thailand’s shores of Koh Samui or Koh Phangan, or one of its smaller, more rustic resorts. It’s an ideal month, climate wise, to explore the USA’s Grand Canyon with its breathtaking terrain. A little later in the year, between spring and summer, San Francisco’s climate is at its best. The city is quite bohemian; one of the most understated US destinations. “Most weddings take place in the summer months and mid-summer

provides probably the widest choice for those looking for sunshine and white sandy beaches,” says Paula. Recommendations include the Seychelles with their pearl white beaches, diving and snorkelling, and temperatures usually hovering around 30°c. Bali in south East Asia is climatically comfortable and warm in July, with stunning shorelines and scenery. This is also the ideal time to consider a safari holiday, with specialist providers recommending tours of areas like the Maasai Mara. “Safaris have become more popular, ideal for couples seeking something more than a beach holiday,” she adds. For autumn and winter weddings, Australia’s Great Barrier Reef still has warm weather. Alternatively, New York is popular both as a lively autumn honeymoon destination, but also an ideal one to enable you to start your Christmas shopping! • Please contact Oundle Travel on 01832 273600 or visit www. oundletravel.co.uk.

Stamford’s leading acupuncturist co-authors ground breaking book L

ianne Aquilina has run her Stamford acupuncture clinic, Aqulia, on Scotgate Mews for ten years and her book on the use of acupuncture to aid fertility has just been launched both in the UK and the USA. The book ‘Acupuncture for IVF and Assisted Reproduction: An integrated approach to treatment and management’ primarily focuses on the groundbreaking management of infertility using acupuncture. Acupuncture treatment can help a wide range of conditions including painful musculo-skeletal problems such as back pain and many more acute or chronic conditions. The use of acupuncture to aid fertility is a rapidly developing area of complementary medicine and Lianne hopes the textbook will not only help to increase awareness amongst other practitioners but spread appreciation of the subject and guidance to those requiring help with fertility. In addition to writing the book Lianne treats her patients for a range of conditions as well as fertility treatment from her Stamford Clinic on Scotgate Mews. She is also a BSc (Hons) acupuncture clinical supervisor at Lincoln University where her role includes teaching third year acupuncture students the theoretical and clinical utility of acupuncture. For the month of October, 2014 Lianne has kindly offered Stamford living readers a free 15 minute consultation to see if acupuncture can help them. • Contact her on 01780 763465 to find out more, visit www.aquilia.co.uk The book can be ordered via Amazon

Nigel Rhodes Fine Art Gallery opens in Stamford N

igel Rhodes, Lincolnshire native and Fine Art Dealer opens his Gallery, on St Martin’s, opposite The George, this November. The move is set to bring period fine art and antiques to the Gallery in Stamford, with plans to hold exhibitions and events and to offer clients a range of services in interior design, collections and investments advice, as well as valuations, framing and restoration. Nigel Rhodes has an established reputation in the purchasing and selling of substantial period artworks and antique pieces from 17th through to the 21st Centuries; historical names such as Gainsborough, Munnings and Lowry. He has sourced and placed many notable works for and on behalf of private clients. The Nigel Rhodes expertise is making sure that what its clients buy is both of good quality and provenance, of excellent condition and aesthetic composition. Most works and pieces are bought in their original state from private collections and go directly into private clients’ houses. Knowing clients’ tastes and needs, providing a discreet and expert service - incorporating the interior furnishing of clients’ houses and giving the benefit of over 30 years experience, knowledge and sources are all central aspects of Nigel Rhodes Fine Art. • For Further Information Please Contact: 01522 569 522 / enquiries@nigelrhodesfineart.com

STAMFORD LIVING OCTOBER 2014

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NEW

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• Massage for men & women, full body, back, neck & shoulders with or without scalp • Exfoliation – full body, back and/or legs & arms

A special haven of tranquility and relaxation tucked away in the centre of Stamford Snowdens Hospital, Scotgate, Stamford, PE9 2YF Tel: 01780 762244 - www.snowdensfootclinic.co.uk

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• SL Oct ADS.indd 25

18/09/2014 13:35

For natural family health & wellness call

01780 758535

We specialise in locating and naturally correcting imbalances in nerve system function and body chemistry which are blocking your ability to achieve optimal physical and mental performance.

Our methods of correction are twofold.

We re-balance the nerve system by performing special “chiropractic adjustments” using the Activator Method. These corrections are very gentle and totally safe, making this type of care suitable for the whole family. We then look to re-balance body chemistry by educating our patients on changing their lifestyle habits. This is a wide ranging, tailor-made programme for each individual (infant or adult) depending upon their needs and goals.

When our bodies work in balance, not only does our health improve significantly but we may also start to notice a whole range of other benefits, such as: • • • • • •

Pain relief Increased mobility Improved posture Feeling more energised Improved concentration Happier moods ETC...

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

Web: www.in-nerve-ative.co.uk

STAMFORD YOGA Hatha Sun Power Forrest Ashtanga Yin Integral Restorative Mediation Pilates Finding stillness in a fast paced world…

Calm your mind, relieve anxiety. Gain greater ﬂexibility, strength, muscle tone, stamina

“A Safe Place to Talk”

Free, confidential & unbiased advice for those facing an unplanned pregnancy. Support for those who have post-abortion, post-miscarriage or baby-loss concerns. We also offer: Free Pregnancy Testing, Free Chlamydia Testing & Sexual Health Information. • • • • •

Tel: 01780 765853/ 07913052159 office@alternativesstamford.co.uk www.alternativesstamford.co.uk facebook.com/alternativesstamford @altstamford

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

Registered charity 1129379

& focus 12 Broad Street, Stamford, Lincolnshire, PE9 1PG Tel: 01733 688235 Mob: 07738 272474 Website: www.stamfordyoga.co.uk Email: info@stamfordyoga.co.uk

• SL Oct ADS.indd 26

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GET FIT

WHICH GYM IS RIGHT FOR YOU? Georgie Fenn takes a look round Stamford’s bourgeoning selection of gyms Rhinos

Westside WESTSIDE Location: West St, Stamford, PE9 2PN Opening Hours: Monday – Thursday: 6:30- 21:45 Friday: 6:30 – 21:00 Saturday: 8:00- 16:00 Sunday: 9:00- 16:00 Cost: Joining Fee: £25.00 Day Pass: £12.95 1 Week: £25.00 1 Month: £70.00 2 Month: £120.00 3 Month: £159.00 There are also a series of membership packages which vary in price depending on when you want to attend the gym: Platinum - £52 per month and you can use the gym anytime and all classes are free. Silver- £47 per month and you can use the gym anytime but classes are £2 extra. Bronze- £40 per month and you can use the gym from 6.30am-4pm and classes are £4. Studio- £40 per month for use of just classes Student- £35 per month for use of the gym anytime and classes are £2 extra Junior- £22 per month but you cannot attend fitness classes. Facilities: Lots of cardio equipment Machine weights and free weights Studio for a range of classes Sauna and Steam Room Indoor spinning room with disco lights Best for: Getting fit and feeling fabulous. Most impressive feature: I really love being able to watch the BBC News whilst I am on the treadmill, it just makes time go so much faster. However, the Cycling Studio with its disco lights is really impressive and definitely worth a go. User comments: “The trainers are really nice and willing to help and the wide range of equipment means there is always something you can be doing’’ – Jamie Price, Regular Gym User. RHINO’S GYMNASIUM Location: Unit 22, Gwash Way Industrial Estate, Ryhall Road, Stamford, PE9 1XP Opening Hours: Monday- Friday: 6:30am-

1Life 9:30pm. Saturday and Sunday: 7:00am-8:00pm Cost: No joining fee. £4 a session, £12 a week, £28 a month or £26 a month on standing order, £150 for 6 months and £290 per annum. The only extra is for a range of classes where you can select as you require and Rhino’s also offer the option of having a training session with a professional personal trainer for anything from £20-£30 for an hour. Facilities: More machines than you can dream of Cardio Equipment Studio with professional sprung floor Outdoor area for lifting and climbing Massage therapists and treatment rooms Sprint Track Best For: Getting in really great shape with expert advice in a friendly environment! Most Impressive Feature: The huge variation in weights and cardio to keep you busy! User Comments: ‘‘I joined Rhino’s when it opened in June 2013 and since then have been a regular, with the friendly faces and expert knowledge of Nick, Linda and Sam it has been superb place to train. Rhino’s offers a wide variety of equipment to suit your every training need, including a fantastic outdoor gym that includes a Car to deadlift, Atlas stones to “throw around” and many more pieces of equipment that you don’t see in your everyday gym. All in all Rhino’s is an excellent place to train, in a very friendly atmosphere run by excellent people offering a wealth of expertise within the fitness arena.’’ – Austin Schwarz, Stamford Rugby Club Captain. 1LIFE AT STAMFORD LEISURE CENTRE Location: Drift Road, Stamford, PE9 1UZ Opening Hours: Monday- Thursday: 6:30am- 9:30pm Friday: 6:30am-8:00pm Saturday: 7:30am-5:00pm Sunday: 8:00am-4:00pm Cost: Joining fee is currently £1 (summer offer) £7.05 per day for use of pool and gym £22 per month for use of pool and gym £5.35 for classes in the pool including Aquafit

Facilities: Great air conditioned gym Swimming Pool Changing Facilities Best For: A more private gym so a quieter work out. Most Impressive Feature: The low prices and huge benefit of being able to use the pool! STAMFORD ENDOWED SCHOOLS SPORTS CENTRE Location: Conduit Road, Stamford, Lincolnshire, PE9 1QQ Opening Hours: Pool and Gym – MondayFriday: 5:30pm- 8:30pm. Pool and Gym – Saturday- 7am-10am Sunday- 10am-3:30pm Cost: Unaffiliated membership - there are a series of packages depending on what you need: Gold – For use of the Gym and the Pool as an individual - £180 for 6 months Gold for a family (2 adults and up to 4 children) - £360 for 6 months Silver – Pool Only for individual use £150 for 6 months Silver for a family - £300 for 6 months Now affiliated membership is slightly cheaper and this is for people who have some link with the schools so previous pupils, parents, alumni, teachers etc. Gold – For use of the Gym and the Pool as an individual - £75 for 3 months Gold for a family (2 adults and up to 4 children) - £150 for 3 months Silver – Pool Only for individual use - £60 for 3 months Silver for a family - £120 Facilities: Exceptional Pool and great modern gym with all the facilities you could need. Best For: Variation from the gym by having a swim. Most Impressive Feature: The swimming pool. User Comments: ‘’Originally I joined the Sport Centre because it was a real asset to the school that I wish to be able to support. In my opinion the pool is excellent, the best locally by a long way, and the fabulous setting and friendly atmosphere keeps me coming back’ – Sarah Babbs, Local Physiotherapist STAMFORD LIVING OCTOBER 2014

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Christmas Parties 2014

‘The Study’ – one of Hambleton’s private dining rooms is available for parties of 6 – 16 guests

Special Limited Choice Menu - £55.00 per person At the end of the evening why not stay the night? We are offering a special rate of £230.00 per night, based on 2 people sharing one of our standard double bedrooms, this includes full Hambleton breakfast & vat.

Chicken Liver & Foie Gras Terrine with Figs *** Salad of Cornish Crab with Sourdough, Mango & Curry Oil *** Salad of Walnut, Celery & Grapes with Stilton Ice Loin & Slow Cooked Breast of Lamb with Confit Tomato, Minted Pea & Elephant Garlic *** Roast Pheasant with Root Vegetables & Pearl Barley Risotto *** Pan Fried Fillet of Seabass with Confit Peppers, Aubergine & Artichoke flavoured Cous Cous Lemon Tart with Raspberry Sorbet *** Pear & Blackberry Terrine with Caramel Ice-cream *** Pavé of White & Dark Chocolate with Raspberries

For more details about our Special Breaks and Events please visit our website www.hambletonhall.com

Coffee & homemade Chocolates ***

All menus are subject to a discretionary service charge of 12.5%

HAMBLETON OAKHAM RUTLAND LE15 8TH T: 01572 756991 E: hotel@hambletonhall.com W: www.hambletonhall.com

THE Good Food Great Entertainment Real Ales

GARDEN HOUSE Stamfords best kept secret

HOTEL

Guy Fawkes Bonfire & Fireworks Display

Sat 8th Nov from 6.30pm – Free entry. Hot dogs, toffee apples and live music in our heated marquee. In association with The First Deeping St James Scouts group.

Christmas 2014 - Join us for a variety of fabulous menus and festive events. Festive Menu - 2 & 3 course options throughout December. Christmas Marquee Parties - for families, friends and corporate groups - 3 course meal and classic Christmas celebration with our resident DJ. Selected weekends in December

Christmas Day 2014

Relax and enjoy a special day, hang up the pinny and let us do the cooking for you! Choice of two dining times.

New Year’s Eve Party 2014

Guitar and vocals hero Paul Lake takes us into 2015 with contemporary and classic covers. Evening buffet and breakfast butties. Book early!

We’ll also be lighting the fire on Boxing Day and New Year’s Day offering an a la carte menu. Please visit our website or contact us for more details The Golden Pheasant - 1 Main Road, Etton, Peterborough, PE6 7DA

Tel: 01733 252387

Email: info@thegoldenpheasant.net - www.thegoldenpheasant.net

CHRISTMAS AT THE GARDEN HOUSE SEE OUR WEBSITE FOR OUR CHRISTMAS MENUS AVAILABLE THIS YEAR. BEDROOMS ARE ALSO AVAILABLE DURING THE CHRISTMAS PERIOD. CALL US FOR MORE DETAILS.

FUNCTION ROOM HIRE

WE HAVE THREE STUNNING FUNCTION ROOMS AVAILABLE TO HIRE FOR EITHER BUSINESS MEETINGS, PARTIES OR PRIVATE DINING. PLEASE CALL US FOR MORE INFORMATION.

01780 763359

High Street, St Martins, Stamford, PE9 2LP www.gardenhousehotel.com

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EATING OUT

Christmas Menus and Party Rooms

for the festive season! As the feel-good factor has come back into the economy, so individuals and companies have a bit more to spend on festive celebrations. Nicholas RuddJones takes a look at this year’s choices

RESTAURANTS Jackson Stops, Stretton Rookery Lane, Stretton, Rutland, LE5 7RA Tel: 01780 410237 www.thejacksonstops.com The December lunch menu looks excellent value at £15.95 for 2 courses and £18.95 for three, with 6 choices per course; including ‘Local Tilton turkey’ as a main course option and an interesting vegetarian option, ‘Handmade Ravioli of Goat’s Cheese, Shallots & Pine Nuts, Tarragon Velouté, Rocket Purée & Parmesan’. The dinner menu is still more extensive, offering a steak selection, at £21.50 for 2 courses, or £25.00 for 3. Private parties can be catered for up to 16 in the end room, or up to 30 in The Barn. Christmas Day luncheon at £69.95 a head is a very special event, full of warmth and hospitality. The Yard at No. 3 (formerly Jim’s Yard) 3 Ironmonger St, Stamford, PE9 1PL Tel: 01780 756080 www.jimsyard.biz Under new ownership, Head Chef Tim Luff has more than maintained the excellent food reputation, with an excellent pedigree that included a stint at the Olive Branch. He has stuck with the tried and tested favourites but also freshened up the menu to offer some interesting alternatives. The Christmas 3 course party menu this year will be £25 per head, offering a choice of four dishes per course, both the expected and

the more unusual; for example ‘Slow Roasted Moroccan Lamb Shoulder, Spiced Cous Cous Confit, Cherry Tomatoes with Cumin Cream sauce’. The Christmas Day lunch at £70 (£40 for Under 12s) has always been a sell-out here and the three-course menu is as strong as aver, with a great festive ambience on the day. This year The Yard is inaugurating a New Year’s Eve Taster Menu – 8 courses - £70 per head, or £100 with wine to match each course. Given Tim’s cooking excellence, this comes highly recommended.

HOTELS The Crown Hotel All Saints’ Place, Stamford, PE9 2AG Tel: 01780 763136 www.thecrownhotel stamford.co.uk There’s always a great ambience about The Crown at Christmas, and the décor has recently been refreshed, creating a still better ambience. Christmas menus can be found at www. thecrownhotelstamford.co.uk and are good

value for 3 courses, offering all the traditional favourites in the friendly atmosphere of The Crown. They also offer a Christmas Day menu. The New Year’s Eve Celebration this year will be an informal private party with band Calder McLaughlin. There will be a Royal Buffet followed by dancing the night away, with Calder McLaughlin playing Pop and Rock hits from bands such as Rod Stewart, The Eagles and Stereophonics. £40 per person. Garden House Hotel, Stamford High St, Stamford, Lincolnshire PE9 2LP Tel: 01780 763359 www.gardenhousehotel.com I must admit to having a soft spot for the Garden House Hotel – the Georgian elegance, the delightful conservatory, the best, most hidden away garden in Stamford and the very friendly proprietors and staff who make you feel immediately welcome and at home. It’s a perfect spot for a Christmas celebration. The Christmas Fayre Party menu, available from 1st-24th December, is excellent value at £17 for 2 courses and £19.50 for three. Take a look at the full menu on their website. Christmas Day lunch is £70 per person and is always a very warm and friendly atmosphere. Continued on page 30 STAMFORD LIVING OCTOBER 2014

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EATING OUT

HOTELS The William Cecil High Street St Martin’s, Stamford, PE9 2LJ Tel: 01780 750070 Check out their Christmas menus at www. thewilliamcecil.co.uk. The Festive Dinner menu offers lots of choice and is good value at £30 for three courses (or £25 for 2). I liked the look of their starters: ‘Roasted beetroot & goat’s curd pannacotta, toasted hazelnuts, basil oil’. To follow: ‘Ballotine of turkey, sausage meat, & cabbage, wrapped in San Danielle Ham’. The Festive Lunch menus are even better value at £16.95 for 2 courses or £20 for 3 courses. Party Nights will be held on the 12th, 13th & 19th December and include a glass of mulled wine on arrival, 3 course dinner and dancing. 8pm until late. £40.00 for 3 courses, including a glass of Mulled Wine on arrival New Year’s Eve Black Tie Gala Dinner Menu is £80.00 per person and includes half a bottle of house wine with dinner, DJ and bacon sandwiches for those that need a nibble at 12.30 too.

PUBS

Exeter Arms, Easton-on-the Hill 21 Stamford Road, Easton-on-the Hill, PE9 3NS Tel: 01780 756321 www.theexeterarms.net The big news here in recent months has been the arrival of Dameon Clarke, one of the region’s most highly rated chefs and recently Head Chef at the Wicked Witch. He has prepared a Christmas Party Menu, which is £25 for two courses and £30 for 3. There are 4-5 choices per course, amongst which you will find ‘King prawn risotto with parmesan foam and crispy parmesan biscuit for starters’; ‘Roast stone bass with braised chicory, marinated fennel and sage gnocchi’ for the main course; and ‘Cinnamon parfait with apple and mincemeat strudel and maple syrup’ for dessert.

The Christmas Day lunch is £80 per person and includes fabulously appetising-looking dishes, including: ‘Rabbit, pistachio and foie gras terrine with carrot pesto and toasted pistachios’ for starters; ‘Venison Wellington with date tortellini, pickled red cabbage and chocolate jus’ for mains; and ‘Cranberry baked cheesecake with spiced honeycomb and a sloe gin and blackberry jelly’ for dessert. The Bull & Swan at Burghley High Street St Martin’s, Stamford, PE9 2LJ Tel: 01780 766412 www.thebullandswan.co.uk Festive menus are served in the very characterful main restaurant across from the bar, and represent great value at £25 for 3 courses (4 choices per course, and prices held from last year). The menu can be found on their website. The Christmas Day menu is priced at £65 a head, with the promise of complete relaxation and definitely no washing up. The Golden Pheasant, Etton 1 Main Road, Etton, Market Deeping, PE6 7DA Tel: 01733 252387 www.thegoldenpheasant.net This Christmas The Pheasant is offering a variety of entertainment and dining options to get everyone into the festive spirit: • Christmas Festive menu, available throughout December for restaurant and bar dining, only £15 for 2 courses and £18 for 3 courses • Christmas Marquee Party Menu, for groups and corporate parties, with dancing – a classic Christmas party: £32; on selected Fridays and Saturdays in December. • Christmas Day Menu – 5 Joyous courses for £60 (£25 for guests under 10) • New Year’s Eve Party – Guitar and vocals hero Paul Lake taking the party into 2015 with contemporary and classic covers. Evening buffet and breakfast butties. Real Christmas trees, log fire, tasteful decorations and service with Festive cheer

Six Bell, Witham Six Bells, Witham on the Hill, PE10 0JH Tel: 01778 590360 www.sixbellswitham.co.uk The Six Bells at Witham on the Hill is the latest venture from Jim and Sharon Trevor, well known locally for Jim’s Yard in Stamford and The Beehive in Peterborough. General Manager Gemma Rogerson and brilliant Head Chef Ben Poulton are pleased to welcome you to this totally re-furbished country inn with rooms. The December Set menu is £17.50 for two courses and £22.50 for three; it includes interesting dishes like ‘Salad of Gorgonzola, Toasted Pecan Nuts, Red Wine Poached Pear & Wild Watercress’ for starters: ‘Confit of Barbary Duck, Dauphinoise Potatoes, Wilted Spinach & 5 Spice Sauce’ for the main; and ‘Salted Caramel Crème Brulée, Granny Smith Salad & Sorbet’ for dessert. The Christmas Day lunch will be a cracker. £70 for adults (£35 for children under 14). A glass of fizz or mulled wine is included on arrival; some really creative sounding starters, including ‘Pheasant Ravioli, Parsnip Crisps, Roast Chestnuts, Cream of Wild Mushrooms & Madeira Sauce’; and classic main courses, including of course ‘Turkey Roulade, Sage & Onion Stuffing, Roast Potatoes & Traditional Accompaniments (‘Cranberry Sauce, Bread Sauce, Piggies in Blankets, Gravy, Brussels and Chestnuts’. The Boxing Day lunch starts, as you might imagine, with a Bloody Mary on arrival, and is good value at £30. And if you want to celebrate New Year’s Eve in style, the party here looks the place for you: the 8 Course Black Tie Gala Dinner Is £95 Per Person.

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VENUES The Orangery at Burghley Burghley House, Stamford, PE9 3JY Tel: 01780 761989 The Orangery will be open 10am until 4pm Wednesdays – Sundays during the winter season. They will be serving breakfast, lunch and a special festive Afternoon Tea. Lunch menu: 1 course £14.95; 2 courses £17.95; 3 courses £20.95. Bookings welcome for tables of 8 people or more. Spectacular evening events may be booked in The Great Hall by contacting Kara Lockyer on the number above.

FURTHER AFIELD Barnsdale Hall Hotel North Shore, Rutland Water, LE15 8AB Tel: 01572 757901 www.barnsdalehotel.co.uk Celebrate at one of their Christmas party nights, which include a three course dinner with crackers, hats and novelties, followed by music and fun provided by resident DJ, Disco Dave. Great value at £28.50. Dates available: Dec 5th, 6th, 12th, 19th & 20th. And Christmas Lunch is £73 (£34.50 for children 6-11 years). Or why not try their great New Year’s Eve Ball – a 5-couse meal, table magician and music - £77.50. Barnsdale Lodge The Avenue, Rutland Water, LE15 8AH Tel: 01572 724678 www.barnsdalelodge.co.uk Barnsdale Lodge really does feel like home from home, with friendly and attentive staff and a relaxed feel. This makes it a magical place to celebrate the festive season. Their renowned Festive Party nights are on: Fri 12th and Sat 13th- £30.00 per person Wed 17th and Thu 18th - £27.50 per person Fri 19th - £32.50 per person Sat 20th - £49.50 per person Additionally, on Friday 19th there is a ‘Festive lunch in the Barn’ at £24.50 per person, including a Winter Pimms on arrival. Complimentary transport to Oakham, Uppingham and Stamford after the lunch is also included. Dec 20th Annual Christmas Ball. Tickets cost £49.50 per person, to include a Champagne reception followed by 4-course dinner and live entertainment from Funk Soul Brother and house disco. Wave goodbye to 2014 and welcome in 2015 in style, with the Lodge’s New Year’s Eve Dinner Dance. Dinner is served with canapés and Champagne on arrival and a sumptuous 5-course meal followed by fireworks and dancing into 2015 with The Jazz Rats and house disco. Tickets are £92.50 per person The Beehive, Peterborough 62 Albert Place, Peterborough, PE1 1DD Tel: 01733 310600 www.beehivepub.co.uk The Beehive is one of Peterborough’s liveliest venues, combining informality with excellent food; in their words ‘more than just a pub. Not just a restaurant.’ This makes it a great venue for Christmas parties with a ‘buzz’, and there’s lots to choose from:

• The Xmas Party Menu - £18.50 for 2 courses, £25 for 3 • Christmas Day Menu - £60 per person, £30 for children under 15, which includes a glass of wine on arrival • New Year’s Eve Dinner Dance - £65 per person, which includes a glass of fizz on arrival, a four course dinner and dancing There is also the facility for private dining, from 12 up to 20 guests, so this could be ideal for an office or department party. Berkeley Arms, Wymondham 59 Main St, Wymondham, Leics, LE14 2AG Tel: 01572 787587 www.theberkeleyarms.co.uk The Berkeley Arms is an award-winning pub with back-to-back Bib Gourmand Awards in the Michelin Guide, offering seasonal produce at affordable prices. The Festive Menu is available for all parties to pre-order at Lunch or Dinner, at £30 for 3 courses; 4 choices per course. This is seriously classy food - dishes include ‘Smoked Haddock & Salmon Croquettes with Horseradish Cream’ for starters; ‘Roast Turkey with Bacon Wrapped Sausages, Chestnut Stuffing & Cranberry Sauce’ for the main; and ‘Chocolate, Caramel & Peanut Torte with Clementine Sorbet’ for dessert.

Hambleton Hall Oakham Rd, Hambleton Peninsula, LE15 8TH Tel: 01572 756991 www.hambletonhall.com Hambleton Hall is stunning at Christmas time. They have the most wonderful Christmas tree and decorations throughout the house and roaring log fires. The Study - one of Hambleton’s private dining rooms - is available for parties of 6 – 16 guests; offering a Special Limited Choice Menu at £55.00 per person, which for such an establishment represents incredible value. The December Daily Festive Lunch is £28 for 2 courses, or £35 for 3. There are two choices per course. For the ultimate Christmas dining experience, the Christmas Day lunch & dinner is £125 for six-courses. New Year’s Eve is the only night of the year when the dance floor will be down and guests are able to dance the night away. There will be champagne on arrival, a six course dinner with coffee & chocolates, wine throughout the dinner, champagne to see the New Year in, music & dancing. Black tie, £175.00 per person. Marquess of Exeter, Lyddington 52 Main St, Lyddington Tel: 01572 822477 www.marquessexeter.co.uk The Marquess’s Christmas lunch is great value for two courses, with local turkey as the centrepiece. Party menus (minimum party size 8) are also great value. Menu and finalised

pricing can be found on their website. If you have a larger group of up to 14 diners, then why not hire ‘The Snug’, a private room at the front of the pub that allows you to let your hair down that little bit more. There is a service charge of 10%, but no room hire charge. New Year’s Eve is a fabulous night too, with a celebration menu and a room offer for 2 people inc. B&B - so you don’t have to worry about driving home. Nevill Arms, Medbourne 12 Waterfall Way, Medbourne, LE16 8EE Tel: 01858 565288 www.thenevillarms.net The Nevill Arms has everything you want from a village pub – an exquisite setting by the side of a stream with a wooden footbridge in a delightful village, a warm welcome from the friendly bar team, a roaring log fire and great pub food. The festive menu is full of traditional favourites, well cooked. Take a look at the menu at www.thenevillarms.net Again, this pub has rooms if you want to make a night of it. The Olive Branch, Clipsham Good Pub Guide Pub of The Year 2014 Main St, Clipsham, LE15 7SH Tel: 01780 410355 www.theolivebranchpub.com For the second year now, The OB is offering the popular four course Great British Festive Dinner Manu, available throughout December at £27.50 a head. Begin with Jerusalem Artichoke Soup, then a choice of 3 starters, 3 mains & 3 desserts; the meal finishes with coffee & mince pies, so you will not go away hungry! If I was choosing I would have picked ‘Beetroot Risotto, Watercress & Colwick Cheese’ for starters, ‘Venison Suet Pudding with Crushed Buttered Swede’ for main (now that sounds different!) and ‘White Chocolate parfait with Cranberry Compote’ for dessert. They are able to host parties of up to 20 in the beautiful candlelit barn, with open woodburning fire, Christmas tree and traditional decorations. You can create your own winter menu or have the Traditional Christmas menu with crackers and party hats. Add to this mulled wine or champagne and canapés or simply order drinks from the bar. £35 per person for 3 courses. All the menus are up on the website at www. theolivebranchpub.com STAMFORD LIVING OCTOBER 2014

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WITHAM ON THE HILL

Artisan Bread baked daily

Lunchtime Monday to Saturday Any Pizza & a Glass of Wine £10

Authentic Wood Burning Pizza Oven

01778 590360 32

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w w w. s i x b e l l s w i t h a m . c o m w w w. b e e h i v e p u b . c o m

Peterborough 01733 310600

18/09/2014 13:37

UPPINGHAM Sales • In-House Cleaning • Bespoke In-House Restoration • Try At Home • Collection & Delivery

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PROFILE

Colin Furze

“It will not be safe, but it will be amazing – Furze will make it happen!” Antonia Scott caught up with local Stamfordian, Colin Furze, a man with a passion for the unusual and thrill seeking!

“I’m very proud of the internet following I’ve achieved and the way I seemed to have carved a style of my own that is fresh in a world where seemingly everything has already been done.”

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T’S not every day that you get to meet a multiple Guinness World Record holder, less common still for the accolades to be for the ‘World’s Largest Bonfire,’ the ‘World’s Longest Motorbike,’ the ‘Fastest Mobility Scooter’ and the ‘Fastest Stroller.’ Who knew Stamford had such a secret talented resident?

The Man behind the Inventions Colin describes himself as a plumber, inventor and filmmaker, having left school at 16 and trained as an apprentice plumber before morphing into a risk-taking inventor and filmmaker in his spare time! He has been called a ‘crazy genius’ by many after a few close calls and injuries, but this doesn’t seem to deter him. “I am 34 years old and have a two-year old called Jake, who is showing promising signs of following in his father’s footsteps - he likes tools and wants to take stuff apart! I’ve noticed over the past few years that as we have moved into a disposable society, our knowledge of fixing things is being left to computer programmes and a few skilled tradesmen. With this in mind, I would like to hope that my son will grow up with a better understanding of how things operate, rather than simply knowing if it’s ‘broken’ or not. So the best way for him to learn, is to watch me doing what I do......from a safe distance of course!” Who or what got you into making things? “I’ve always been interested in making things, but it wasn’t until I got my own shed that I could really expand my projects and make whatever I wanted, not just what I could manage to fit into my bedroom! (I did have a metal lathe in my bedroom at one point, but I don’t recommend this!)” Did you do well at school in the practical subjects? “Yes and no - I could make some amazing things, but I didn’t necessarily want to write about them and all practical subjects normally have a written part too. In schools today, I think there are so many Health and Safety issues that impede teaching practical subjects properly, which is one reason why I will try to encourage my son to watch what I’m doing in the shed! It’s a real shame, as kids leave school with very few practical skills and then wonder why it’s hard to get an apprenticeship when they leave formal education.” How did you go from Plumber to Inventor? “Before I started working as a plumber, I was into BMX biking and used to make all sorts of adaptations for my bike. Then while I was ‘doing the day job’ I decided to design some plumbing tools (some useful, some not!) and

it all grew from there. Ultimately, I just like to fiddle with stuff, even if it’s not always for the better!” What is your ‘best’ invention? My ‘best’ invention is a tough question, as some are better for different reasons. Here are my top 3: The ‘Jet BBQ’ is probably the best-made, The ‘Jet Bike’ gets the biggest wow factor, but I suppose the ‘Fastest Scooter’ should be top of the list as it gained the most publicity and set off so many other things for me as an inventor and stuntman.” What are you most proud of? “I’m very proud of the internet following I’ve achieved and the way I seemed to have carved a style of my own that is fresh in a world where seemingly everything has already been done. It was an accomplishment to receive a ‘Silver Award’ from Google for passing 100,000 subscribers and I am now looking to reach 1 million and get a Gold one. I’m also proud of achieving despite the odds - the things I invent are made with tools that proper engineers would no doubt laugh at, but I’m living proof that you don’t need an expensive lathe or a huge welder to create something amazing. What you do need though is a workplace to get creative in and the right people to ask for help when it’s needed. I also found having people tell me that I’d fail, actually made me drive on just that little bit more, to prove them wrong.” What is your next project? “I previously worked on Gadget Geeks on Sky and am currently working on some really interesting TV projects with the Discovery and National Geographic Channels on recreating the X-Men super powers which is proving fun. ‘BECOMING X-MEN’ is a new series of videos which went live in May, where I will look at some of the abilities and powers of different X-Men and try to replicate them myself.”

Any advice to budding Inventors? “My advice would be to buy some tools and just make anything, no matter what other people think of you. Also, to all shed owning Dads and Granddads out there - let your sons and daughters into your sheds! It may well help them become the next future generation of inventors!”

• Check out Colin’s You Tube channel for some extraordinary film clips, though please be advised the infamous slogan, “Don’t Try This At Home!” really should be applied here! For more information: www.colinfurze.com

Quick Fire Favourites… Favourite spot in the region The spot with the most memories is the old swimming pool/skatepark now car park as I started my BMX days there and spent hours in that spot even after the park was pulled down as I rode flatland BMX on the smooth surface. Favourite day out Digging biggest hole possible at the beach A favourite shop Lambs gas shop in St Peter’s St A favourite café / restaurant Bombay Cottage, Scotgate Best kept local secret It’s a secret!! Wise advice Petrol mobility scooters are not road legal

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Stamford property market’s on the move - don’t get left behind!

vat on 1% plus

ctions

all instru

in the heart of Stamford 01780 76 5000 www.choicemove.co.uk 10 Red Lion Street, PE9 1PA

Doorstops, draught excluders and much much more! Purchase locally at: Lakeland l Van Hage l Dobbies l John Lewis Sinclairs l Burghley House l Jupes Portess of Oakham l Gates Garden Centre Sarah Harding Interiors l Waterside Garden Centre

w: www.doradesigns.co.uk l t: 01733 305452 l f: 08432 161879 l e: enquiries@doradesigns.co.uk

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UPDATES

Choice Move Estate Agency celebrates its first anniversary C

hoice Move is a breath of fresh air in the estate agency market. Sister company to Choice Mortgages, which has been trading in Red Lion St for 15 years, it has the same ethos– making things straightforward and transparent for the customer, and offering good personal service. Choice Move is headed up by Andrew Carter, who has over 20 years of experience in the estate agency business and has always lived in the area. “We can market any property within a 15 mile radius of our office in Stamford,” he told us. Choice Move is celebrating its first year in business, and has enjoyed a very successful year. What has been their key to success? Andrew puts it down to a number of factors. “First of all,” he said, “we have a very simple and transparent charging system – 1% + VAT and not tied into any contract, so that you know exactly where you stand from the start. Secondly, you will have one point of contact to maximise ease of selling. We have had lots of feedback from first time customers who

have commented on how much simpler and less stressful the process was than they had feared it might be. Thirdly, we have all the technology in place to ensure that vendors’ homes will get seen as often as possible by the most relevant and interested possible purchasers.” Choice Move is independent and offers the personal touch and lots of local knowledge. As an added incentive, if you place your instructions with them before 30th Nov you will be placed in a draw to win a mini Ipad. • Choice Move, 10 Red Lion St, Stamford, PE9 1PA Tel: 01780 765000 www.choicemove.co.uk

From kitchen table to global success As a young arts graduate, Angela Stevens started out sewing soft toys on her parents’ kitchen table. Now she and husband Mark head an internationally successful gifts company with its head office in Peterborough. Fiona Cumberpatch reports

ou may not be familiar with the name of Dora Designs, but the chances are that you’ve probably seen some of the products. Winsome gift items based on a cast of animal characters, the doorstops, draught excluders, paperweights, key rings and book ends are stocked in John Lewis, Burghley House gift shop and Sinclairs, as well as stores nationwide and, indeed, worldwide. It is a far cry from company founder Angela Stevens’ early days when she started out cutting patterns and sewing her very first designs, a mouse called Dora (after which the company is named), and a frog shaped doorstop, in her parents’ kitchen in Leicester in 1991. “I had a degree in fine art, and I wanted to start a business using my creative skills,” says Angela. “I’d spent a year studying in America, at Millersville University in Pennsylvania, and I was very impressed by the passion for handmade and handcrafted items over there. I lived near an Amish community, and their ethos is to hand craft everything,” she explains. “I had always loved making things and I never travelled anywhere without my sewing machine.” She experimented with a few designs, impressing her university friends, who encouraged her to take her ideas forward, and this was the impetus for her business. “Once I’d graduated, I got a small amount of money from the Enterprise Allowance Scheme, made everything myself and sold them at craft fairs,” says Angela. “It was only supposed to be for a few months. But by the second year, I was starting to outsource some of the making to local ladies, and after five years, I was producing enough stock to attend a trade fair.”

Thinking big Angela’s design ideas flowed, and as she added characters and products to her portfolio, she realised that she needed to think bigger. “After eight years, I found a factory in China which would make my products to the standard I wanted,” says Angela. “But it wasn’t an easy process. The first

container load was a disaster. I had to sell them off as seconds and start again! Now, we have a great relationship with an excellent factory near Shanghai and we go out to China twice a year.” In 2004, Angela’s husband Mark, already a successful accountant, joined the thriving business as managing director and Dora Designs has continued to go from strength to strength. Angela still designs all the products. Dora Designs is a purely wholesale business with a distribution centre near Ely. After years of selling at horse trials and fairs, Angela and Mark wanted to retreat from direct selling. “We have an 11 year old daughter, Lydia, and being out on the road selling is great fun, but it’s not compatible with family life!” says Angela, who lives in Ketton. “Now with distributors in most European countries and Australia, we no longer need to do it, although we have considered opening a shop to showcase what we do.” As the fashion for handmade and homespun items shows no sign of passing, Angela and Mark’s business is in good shape for the future, “although we continue to design new cutting edge products as well as adding fresh items to our traditional range,” says Angela. “It really is a continual process.” • For further information, contact 01733 305452, email enquiries@ doradesigns.co.uk or visit the website www.doradesigns.co.uk Dora Designs is also on Facebook. STAMFORD LIVING OCTOBER 2014

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A new school for Stamford

Open Evening For all Year 5 and 6 pupils

Wednesday 8 October 2014, 5.30pm - 8pm Come and be part of our plans to deliver a new school for Stamford – the school Stamford deserves. Green Lane, Stamford, Lincolnshire, PE9 1HE • 01780 751011 www.stamfordwellandacademy.org 38

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UPDATES

Big Biology Day – Bringing Biology to Stamford again! B

ringing biology to life and to the whole of Stamford and the surrounding area is the aim of Big Biology Day. After last year’s successful inaugural event where hundreds flocked to experience various aspects of biology, the event is returning on Saturday November 8th. Whatever the weather, what could be better than dropping in to Big Biology Day to find out more about the best science in the world! It’s FREE and interactive. There will be hands on activities for everyone; for the hungry, you can model cells and pathogens out of edible components; for the curious you can extract DNA from strawberries, write your name in DNA and see the effect of caffeine and nicotine on the heart rate of water fleas, amongst numerous other experiments; and not for the fainthearted, there will be an opportunity to observe a variety of dissections. Star guest will be Dr Mike Leahy, who notably once infected himself with a tapeworm cyst washed down with a glass of red wine for the BBC; 12 weeks later he produced a 3m intact tapeworm - what people will do in the interests of science! He will be present with his ‘Big Red Zoo Bus’, a converted double decker, which he now lives on…but not alone.

His companions, which travel round the country with him, include tree frogs, bearded dragons, tarantulas, leeches and a 2m long boa constrictor to mention but a few. That’s not all though – the Rutland Osprey Project will give a presentation and there will be representatives from all the local wildlife trusts, with interests ranging from skull and feather identification to bats. Local company Alltech, Lincoln University and many more outside agencies will also be at the day, providing information and opportunities to get involved in hands on activities. So, what’s stopping you?? Saturday November 8th, 10am to 3pm • Stamford High School PE9 2LL (entry at back of SHS via Park Lane). See you there!

Finding the perfect jeans for you at Queensgate T

he Queensgate centre in Peterborough has a fabulous array of shops that sell a whole range of jeans right through from value to high fashion; including Jack & Jones, Superdry, Next, John Lewis, Clues, Topshop, H&M, Warehouse and Wallis amongst others. I needed a new look to my denim wardrobe; and went along to Queensgate on a day that the ‘Project Denim’ state-of-the-art Body Scanner was set up in the concourse. The body scanner scanned me from head to toe to create a 3-D visual of my body, as a basis for identifying what my best fit and type of jean would be – did I, for instance have an hourglass shape, round (!!) or rectangular. There are so many different cuts; skinny, boot, flared, boyfriend...the list goes on, so it can sometimes leave people wondering what choice to make. Often unknown to the consumer, jean styles are suited to certain body types, for example, skinny jeans are ideal for the rectangle body shape, whilst they simply don’t work for others. Selecting the wrong shape can result in ill-fitting jeans; they could be perfect in length but too big around the waist, or perfect around the waist and then too big on the bottom and around the thighs...the result being a saggy behind! Armed with the computer print-out from the Body Scanner, I then met with Lola, an experienced stylist, who suggested the type of jeans that would best suit me; and she settled upon a pair of Jack & Jones Washed Vintage. I then went to the shop to try them on – and , in a word, I was astonished! From the moment I put them on they looked great, and everyone commented how they made me look taller and slimmer. And so comfortable. Predominantly a jeans brand, Jack & Jones also offers cool, casual fashion clothing for men. The whole experience made me realise how important it is to make the right choice about jeans and what a large range of brands there are to choose from at Queensgate. As well as Thursday late night shopping, Peterborough’s Queensgate Centre is now open until 8pm on Fridays too.

The Stamford Endowed Schools Chapel Choir Thurs 9 Oct 7.30pm Stamford Methodist Church

he Stamford Endowed Schools Chapel Choir and Cantare are touring Paris during October half term with a varied programme of contemporary and choral music. A highlight of the tour will be performing Gabriel Faure’s Requiem in La Madeleine, where the work premiered in 1888. A preview fundraising concert will be held in Stamford Methodist Church, Barn Hill on Thursday 9th October at 7.30pm. Entry is by donation on the door with refreshments available during the interval. Proceeds from the concert will be split between the Church Mission Funds and the School Tour. STAMFORD LIVING OCTOBER 2014

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BRINGING LOCAL FOOD TO LIFE

Brewers galore! In the past three years the number of Breweries has rocketed in the East Midlands by over 50%, from 116 in early 2012 to 177 today. Lucky us! ABC Brewery Witton Alcazar Brewery 2 Old Basford Amber Ales 3 Ripley Ashover Brewery 4 Ashover Aston Manor 5 Birmingham Atomic Brewery 6 Rugby Austendyke Ales 7 Weston Hills Backyard Brewery 8 Brownhills Barlow Brewery 9 Barlow, Dronfield Barrowden Brew Co 10 Barrowden Beer Geek 11 Nechells, Birmingham Belvoir Brewery 12 Old Dalby Beowulf Brewery 13 Brownhills Bexar County 14 Peterborough Black Hole Brewery 15 Burton Upon Trent Black Iris Brewery 16 Nottingham Blue Cow Brewery 17 South Witham Blue Monkey 18 Giltbrook Blythe Brewery 19 Hamstall Ridware Bottle Brook 20 Kilburn Brampton Brewery 21 Chesterfield Brewsters Brew Co. 22 Grantham Brigstock Brewhouse 23 Kettering Brown Ales 24 Clay Cross Brunswick Ales 25 Derby Bumpmill Brewery 26 Shirland Burton Bridge 27 Burton Upon Trent Burton Old Cottage 28 Burton Upon Trent Buxton Brewery 29 Buxton Byatt’s Brewery 30 Coventry Carlsberg UK 30b Northampton Castle Rock 31 Nottingham Castor Ales 32 Castor, Peterborough Cathedral Heights 33 Lincoln Caythorpe Brewery 34 Caythorpe Church End Brewery 35 Nuneaton Church Farm Brewery 36 Budbrooke Clouded Minds 36b Shottle Copper Kettle 37 Rushden

Coppice Side Heanor Copthorne Brewery 39 Darlton Dancing Duck 40 Derby Dem Bones 40b Leicester Derby Brewing Co 41 Derby Derventio Brewing Darley 42 Abbey Digfield Ales 43 Barnwell Double Top 44 Worksop Dow Bridge 45 Catthorpe Draycott Brewery 46 Buckden Dronfield Brewery 47 Dronfield Dukeries Brewery 48 Worksop Elliswood 48b Hinckley Everards 49 Narborough Falstaff Brewery 50 Derby Flash Brewery 51 Quarnford Flipside 52 Colwick Freedom 53 Abbots Bromley Frog Island 54 Northampton Froth Blowers 54b Erdington Full Mash 55 Stapleford Fun Fair Brewery 56 Elston, Notts Gas Dog Brewery 57 Melton Mowbray Gates Burton 58 Burton Upon Trent Golden Duck 59 Appleby Magna Grafters Brewery 60 Willingham-by-Stow Grafton Brewery 61 Worksop Grainstore 62 Oakham Great Oakley 63 Great Oakley, Corby Greg’s Brewery 63b Hinckley Griffin Inn Brewery 64 Shustoke Handley’s Brewery 65 Barnby in the Willows Hart Family Brewers 66 Wellingborough Harthill Village 66b Harthill Hartshorns 67 Derby Haywood Bad Ram 68 Sandybrook Hearsall Brewery 69 Coventry Hopshackle Brewery 71 Market Deeping Hunsbury Brewery 72 East Hunsbury

Instant Karma Clay Cross John Thompson Brewery 74 Ingleby Julian Church Brewing Co 75 Kettering King’s Cliffe Brewery 75b King’s Cliffe Kings Clipstone Brewery 77 Kings Clipstone Langton Brewery 78 Thorpe Langton Latimer Brewery 79 Corby Leadmill Brewery 80 Denby Village Leatherbritches 81 Smisby Lincoln Green Brewing Co 83 Hucknall Long Itch Brewery 84 Offchurch Long Lane Brewery 85 Coalville Magpie Brewery 86 Nottingham Mallard Brewery 87 Maythorne Marlpool Brewery 88 Heanor Marstons 89 Burton Upon Trent Maypole Brewery 90 Eakring Medieval Brewery 91 Colston Bassett Melbourn Bros Brewery 92 Stamford Merrimen Brewery 92b Litchborough Merry Miner Brewery 93 Warton Middle Earth Brewery 94 Derby Milestone Brewery 95 Cromwell MolsonCoors 95a Burton Upon Trent Mr Grundy’s Brewery 96 Derby Muirhouse Brewery 97 Ilkeston Naked Brewer 98 Westwood Navigation Brewery 99 Nottingham Nene Valley Brewery 100 Oundle Newark Brewery 101 Newark Newby Wyke Brewery 102 Grantham Nobby’s Brewery 103 Guilsborough Nomad Brewery 104 Moorgreen North Star Brewery 105 Ilkeston Nottingham Brewery 106 Nottingham Nutbrook Brewery 107 West Hallam Oakham Ales 108 Peterborough Old Pie Factory Brewery 109 Warwick Old Sawley 110 Sawley

111 112 113 114 115 115b

116 116b

117 118 119 120

121 122 123 124 124b

125 126 127 127 b

128 128b

129 130 131 132 133 134 134b

135 136 137 137 b

138 139 140 141 142

Oldershaw Brewery Grantham Parish Brewery Burrough on the Hill Peak Ales Chatsworth Peakstones Rock Brewery Alton Pheasantry Brewery East Markham Phipps NBC Northampton Pig Pub Brewery Claybrooke Magna Pigeon Fishers Hollingwood Poacher’s Brewery North Hykeham Potbelly Brewery Kettering Purity Brewing Co Great Alne Quartz Brewing King’s Bromley Rainbow Inn Brewery Allesley Raw Brewing Co Staveley Reality Brewery Chilwell Red Brewery Great Staughton Red Even Brewery Coleshill Rock & Roll Brewhouse Birmingham Rockingham Ales Blatherwycke Rowditch Inn Brewery Derby Scribblers Ales Stapleford Shardlow Brewing Co Cavendish Bridge Shed Brewery Hockley Heath Shiny Brewery Derby Shottle Farm Brewery Shottle Shugborough Brewery Shugborough Slaughterhouse Brewery Warwick Sleaford Brewery Sleaford Son of Sid Brewery Little Gransden Songbird Brewery Long Eaton Sperrin Brewery Ansley Spire Brewery Staveley Springhead Brewery Laneham Staffordshire Brewery Laneham Star Brewing Co Market Deeping Taddington Brewery Blackwell Tap House Brewery Smisby Thornbridge Brewery Bakewell Tollgate Brewery Calke

143 143b

144 145 146 147 148 149 150 151 152 152b

153 154 155 157 158 159 160 161 161b

Tom Smith’s Brewery Kettering Totally Brewed Nottingham Tower Brewery Burton on Trent Townes Brewery Staveley Tunnel Brewery Ansley Two Towers Brewery Birmingham Urban Brewery Birmingham Warwickshire Beer Co Cubbington Weatheroak Ales Studley Welbeck Abbey Brewery Welbeck Estate Wentwell Brewery Chaddesden Whaley Bridge Brewery Whaley Bridge Whim Ales Hartington Whistling Kite Brewery Kettering White Dog Brewery Newthorpe Whitworth Brewery Shirley Wirksworth Brewery Wirksworth Wollaton Brewery Nottingham Wood Farm Brewery Willey, Rugby 8 Sail Brewery Heckington Xtreme Ales Whittlesey

This map is up to date as of August 2014 – thanks to Steve Westby of Nottingham CAMRA for his help.

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

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n this issue I wanted to share Great Food Club’s latest Brewery Map with you. It also appears in the new Great Food Club Handbook 2015 (out now – order from www.greatfoodclub.co.uk/mag). I’ve put this map together for the past three years with the help of Steve Westby from Nottingham CAMRA and shows every commercial brewery in the Midlands area (newcomers are in blue). What’s amazing is that since creating the first map in January 2012, the number of breweries in the region has increased by more than 50% – from 116 to 177 today. That’s an extraordinary rate of growth and surely the upward trend cannot continue at this speed for much

152 b

116 b

113

139

Bakewell

151

Welbeck

24 66b

Matlock

153

Ashbourne

114

Derbys

Brewery

Brewery he Willows ly Brewers ough llage

131

Bad Ram k rewery

95a 15

120

104 83

105

55 127 b

123 31 99

134 b

128

Sleaford

Notts

102

Lincs 12

142 81 140

Melton

112

Oakham

Leicester 40b

148 147

146

124 b

64 5

Birmingham 157

125

rewery ngton rewery

Solihull

10 75b

150 119

48b

Warwicks

78 116

160

Market Harborough

154

143 45 103

Rugby 36 109

Map by Graham Wright. New launches shown in blue

149

100

Oundle

108

161 b

Stilton

118

Kettering

Northants 54

92b

Peterboro’

124

Northampton

132

Warwick

Corby

121 30

126

Coventry

XX b

138

Rutland

135

54b

urch o

Stamford

mpson

Grantham

161

111

110

Lichfield

106

133

Nottingham

107 97

65 56

143 b

18 159 2

Lincoln

101

155 38

40 67 152 41 96 94 129 Derby

Staffs

e Brewery eping Brewery bury arma

fe Brewery e stone

127 42

144 89

Burton

Mansfield

50 25

115

117 90

36b 130

ley ey, Corby ewery

63b

137

158 137 b

een o

141

Brewery age tches

145 136 122

rewery ts rewery wbray ton on Trent ck agna rewery -by-Stow rewery

umber of ate 2014.

longer. In fact, pub newspaper the Morning Advertiser recently revealed that the number of UK breweries has grown by almost 200% since the millenium – to 1,442. Over the next few years I would expect the numbers to come down, but who knows? Compared to the beer-soaked Nottingham and Derby area, the Stamford, Oakham and Peterborough region looks relatively under-served, but there are some superb brewers here, including Grainstore, Hopshackle, Bexar County, Star Brewing Co (which sprang out of the now-closed Ufford Ales) and Oakham Ales. Newcomers this year are Kings Cliffe Brewery and Xtreme Ales of Whittlesey.

115 b

30b

134

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 OCTOBER 2014

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Advertisement Feature

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he team has a commitment to ensuring a friendly and professional service and offers a high level of knowledge and experience in all the services they do. They are the only garage in Stamford to offer all classes for MOTs as well as a variety of services including, 3D Wheel Alignment, Batteries, Tyres, Diagnostics, Air Conditioning, Servicing & Repairs, Exhausts, Brakes and Suspension. They continue to welcome customers old and new, and would like to thank them for their continued support. â&#x20AC;˘ Airtek UK Limited - Units 1 & 2 Foundry Road, Stamford, PE9 2PY - Tel: 01780 480666

From left to right: Shaun Murphy, Leanne Thomas, Steve Bell, Amanda Bell, Chris Bland.

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SUCCEEDING IN BUSINESS

Chris Tattersall

Co-Owner of The Wool Room Antonia Scott speaks to local entrepreneurs, to find out how they have succeeded in motivating themselves and their team to ensure their start-up company is a winner How it all began... Chris Tattersall is the joint owner of The Wool Room whose Head Office is based in Empingham, Rutland, with a shop on Star Lane in Stamford since September 2012. Since graduating from St Andrew’s University in 1991, Chris’s background has always been in textiles, working initially for Osborne and Little and latterly running Relyon beds. In 2008, Bradford based Jo Dawson, established The Wool Room as a company that predominantly set out to promote and sell the finest wool interiors products, as a result of real frustration at the price of wool. Chris joined the company in 2012 and re-located the business from its origins in Bradford, in order to establish a more centrally located base to expand into a multi-channel operation. The Wool Room has gone from strength to strength, growing its own retail base to four shops and stockists across the UK and Ireland, including Heals of London. The powerhouse has been the growth of on-line business, delivering over 100% growth year-on-year and this trend looks set to continue into next year. The aim of The Wool Room is to double in size every year for the next three years, making it the key market destination in bedding for natural, healthy sleep. The latest exciting news for The Wool Room is that Dr Christian Jessen, from Channel 4’s popular ‘Embarrassing Bodies’ series, has agreed to work with them in order to highlight the natural health benefits to wool products, in particular for allergy sufferers.

Inspiration, Motivation, Vision and Drive.... Chris explains that he is inspired by “Developing and selling high quality products that make a real difference to people’s lives. I am driven by a strong desire to make a success of this business and do something for myself and my fellow co-owner, rather than for a larger, faceless corporate organisation. What really motivates me is the fact that I know that we are helping to change people’s lives, by delivering such an immediate improvement to the quality of their

“The aim of The Wool Room is to double in size every year for the next three years, making it the key market destination in bedding for natural, healthy sleep.” 44

CHRIS GREATLY ADMIRED THE LATE STEVE JOBS, FOR HIS UNRIVALLED PASSION FOR BEAUTIFULLY DESIGNED PRODUCTS THAT DELIVERED LIFE CHANGING BENEFITS TO THE CONSUMER; AND HIS MANTRA: “ALWAYS LISTEN TO THE CUSTOMER.”

that we sell. As a team, we are all professional with a strong work ethic and our vision is to improve peoples’ health and wellbeing by using wool to deliver the best natural and sustainable sleep solutions. Over time, we have discovered that this desire really resonates with the consumer and as a consequence, our focus on delivering the best natural, deeper sleep has been re-confirmed.” Chris says he greatly admired the late Steve Jobs, for his unrivalled passion for beautifully designed products that delivered life changing benefits to the consumer; and his mantra: “Always listen to the customer.”

sleep and health by using our wool beds or bedding.” “I like to motivate my team by leading from the front, demonstrating a strong work ethic that incorporates all our key values. Communication is key and as we are a very small, tight team this is made easier, but we regularly discuss the latest challenges and I like to empower the decision making, where possible to the team. I like my employees to come to me with solutions to problems rather than just the problem itself. We then discuss their solution which helps the team work more effectively and efficiently.”

Passion, belief and mantras! Chris’s ability to get his team to share in his passion and beliefs is by “Communication regular formal and informal discussions. I share the Company’s financial performance and we work through any areas that might need improvement, before moving on to the key objectives of the next quarter.” “My ultimate aim for The Wool Room is to make people stop and think before they purchase their next bed or set of bedding, and to consider the huge benefits of natural wool products, which are a sustainable alternative that really does deliver significantly better sleep. Our key company values are simple - we care that our customers are using sustainable, natural, healthy wool products that improve their well being. I am passionate and knowledgeable about wool and the products

5 REASONS TO BUY WOOL BEDDING: • 25% better sleep than other bedding types • Temperature regulating – no more night sweats or waking up cold! • Hypo allergenic – official seal of approval from The British Allergy Foundation – ask Dr Jessen! • Machine washable products • Supports British farmers DID YOU KNOW? • That even after washing or freezing synthetic, feather or down bedding, it will be completely re-colonized by dust mites after only 6 weeks! In comparison, no live house dust mites or allergens were detected in The Wool Room bedding. • You can test-sleep The Wool Room’s bedding in a variety of guest houses and B&Bs nationwide – the nearest being Chris’s local pub – The White Horse in Empingham. • For more information: www.thewoolroom.com

STAMFORD LIVING OCTOBER 2014

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VISIT US AT OUR NEW LARGE SHOWROOM We have a large selection of the latest contemporary stoves by all leading manufacturers

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DESIGN INTERIORS

STORAGE & DISPLAY: Get Organised

Words & Pictures by Harjit Gammon

sk a designer what the single most important piece of advice they could give to people about their homes is, and almost invariably it is the old William Morris adage that they should only have in their home those things they truly love or need. With space in very short supply for most people, having a major clearout is vital. Disposing of a few things can have an enormous impact on the atmosphere in your house. Sell, donate and throw out what is unusable and enjoy the uplifting place your home can be. We all find it difficult at times to get rid of things, despite the positive effect de-junking has on the quality and quantity of space. But getting organised will enable you to keep on top of clutter. A peer into a Stamford couple’s diminutive mew’s home is instructive in what we could all aspire to in terms of storage and display. Ann & Keith Ellis moved to the property from a large family home after all their offspring had flown the nest. But with numerous interests and a quantity of books to house Ann, a maximalist in minimalist-proportioned surroundings, set about devising storage systems and strategies, from built-in or fitted solutions, such as closets and cupboards, to containers and display. The fact that Ann has a refined creative eye, which she believes developed from a teenage interest in contemplating what she would do to her bedroom given free rein and an interest in art triggered by lessons at school, means the house is crammed with ingenious ideas for storage and display. Entering the property one is struck by the display and storage of scarves along a handrail

extending down the steps of the threshold, while up on the first floor a collection of antique textiles are shown off on an old fruit picker’s ladder acquired at Newark Antiques Fair. Everywhere one looks there are displays of pictures, collections of old wood boxes, china tea cups & saucers, rows of hanging jugs and art mugs, shelves of glass jars containing foodstuffs, and a collection of glass amassed over the years. Together with the white walls throughout, the effect is that of a carefully curated gallery. Ann has crammed in a lifetime of collected pieces by cleverly concealing hidden storage into every nook and cranny. Inside the front

door a large pull out sliding cupboard houses brooms, vacuum and cleaning products, while self closing pull out draws beneath the stair risers conceal shoes and hats. On an upper staircase a double sided pull out cupboard beneath the stairs is home to her sewing things (she is a published needlepoint designer), DVDs and the overflow from a drinks cupboard). Below a shuttered window are low level shelves of various depths to accommodate more displays of objets d’art without impeding the closure of the shutters. Above a pelmet in a bedroom rows of family pictures survey the scene, while behind a custom made venetian blind (by Shades of Stamford) the couple’s

STAMFORD LIVING OCTOBER 2014

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Buy storage & display like Ann’s locally at:

’s Street, You, 30 St Mary 765001 0 78 Stamford. 01 Chez Soi, 16 St Ma ry’s Street, Stamford. 01780 75 7446 St Mary’s Paradise Found, 34 d. for am St t, Stree 01780 764439

travel cases lie concealed in a nook. Ann is generous with her tips for maximising space; use curtains instead of doors across doorways and wardrobes, use as much glass and as many mirrors as possible - she has see-through furniture (sourced from NGI Design) and glass shelving/storage racks, hang up things wherever possible (she has her necklaces on hooks and stores a rainbow collection of nail polishes above the cloakroom door), dispense with knobs (they catch in small spaces), shelves don’t have to be width of items to be stored, taper shelves with smallest width at the bottom to widest at the top, subdivide vertical bookcases to make getting books out easier (her extensive collection of cookbooks is stacked in this way in the kitchen), use baskets to fit below consoles and cupboards for storing everyday items like newspapers and magazines, and ensure chairs can be pushed under tables when not in use. Follow Ann’s lead and glean ideas from sources as wide ranging as visiting a historic property (her banister to correct a ‘wonky’ wall was copied from the Charles Rennie Mackintosh house, 79 Derngate in Northampton), home style magazines and even film sets. Get organised and you will be able to tackle essential tasks much more practically and effectively and at the same time derive real pleasure from your belongings and surroundings.

Snow Interiors, 32 St Mary’s Street, Stamford. 01780 751551

t, Stamford. 01780 780251 Georges Gatehouse Antiques, St Mary’s Stree

Also Visit NGI Design for contemporary storage and display furniture. NGI Design, 4-6 High Street St Martin’s, Stamford. 01780 766899 STAMFORD LIVING OCTOBER 2014

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Fancy dress costumes & accessories to hire and buy • Balloons & Partyware • Fabric, haberdashery & dress making supplies • Children’s Frozen costumes and parties • Scenery, props & theatre services

9 North Street, Stamford, PE9 1EL 01780 754829 www.sukiespartyemporium.co.uk

Stamford Cupcake Company

Cupcakes and Celebration Cakes for all occasions George Farm, London Road, Stamford, PE9 3JP Telephone: 01780 489364 or 07825 153003

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COMPETITION WINNERS

Face of Stamford 2014 The Face of Stamford competition is about bringing local business together to run a fun, lighthearted competition in the community. Over the summer Lyndsay Ford, owner of ShutterBox Photography, photographed 142 children in her studio on North Street and raised hundreds of pounds for Local charity ‘Anna’s Hope’.

HE entry photos were put on view in Stamford Arts Centre where the public could vote for the child that they wanted to be titled ‘The Face of Stamford 2014’. Amazingly, over 3,500 votes were placed over a two week period. The child with the most votes in each age category automatically became a runner-up; and the child with the most votes overall was the winner. Ten local businesses generously donated prizes so that the winning child and runners up can enjoy some great treats over the year…

And the results! The votes were independently counted and the results are in, the people of Stamford have chosen ‘Maxwell Walker’ to be their ‘Face of Stamford 2014’.

ShutterBox Photography Winner: 20 x 16 hand framed photo & £35 voucher. Runners up: 16x20 canvas & £20 voucher. Stamford Arts Centre Winner: Pantomime tickets for a family of 4. Runners up: Vouchers for 2 Cinema ticket. The Yard Winner: free entry into soft play for a month. Runners up: 1 free play and cupcake. Sukies Party Emporium Winner: £20 balloons upon winning & on birthday & £20 vouchers. Runners up: £20 voucher. Pots of Fun Winner: Studio fee with plate or mug. Runners up: Studio fee with £5 voucher Flowers by Mandy Winner: A Bouquet for winners mum. Runners up: bunch of flowers for child’s mum.

Maxwell had the majority vote in the 0-12 month category and also the most Votes in total so become overall winner and to be the ‘Face of Stamford 2014’ The children with the most votes in the other age categories also win a great selection of prizes as runners up. These are…

Kim Smith Hair Design Winner: Hair cut/style for mother and child. Runners up: Hair cut/style for child. Belle Vintage Winner: 2 tutu’s & hair garland/boys outfit & bowtie. Runners up: tutu/bowtie Stamford Cupcake Co Winner: Cake on Birthday & Cupcake upon winning. Runners up: Cupcake upon winning. Cycle Wright Winner: £50 Voucher Runners up: £25 Voucher

Runner-up with the most votes in ‘1-3 year old’ category “Tiana Bingley”

Runner-up with the most votes in ‘4-7 year old’ category “Max Pridemore”

Runner-up with the most votes in ‘7-11 year old’ category “Eva Stone”

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x o B y o T 4x4 design n w o r u o creatingTMy Annie Sloan! Have fun y Paint b k l a h C h wit

45cm

Come to Chalk Interiors at Stamford Garden Centre to see these unique and fun toy boxes

95cm

More exciting designs coming Stylishsoon | Contemporary | Traditional

Painted versions also available

42cm

£145

Chalk Interiors Stamford Garden Centre, Stamford PE9 4BB (FREE PARKING) www.chalkinteriors.com - 01780 752 414

| Contemporary | Traditional Stylish | Stylish Contemporary | Traditional

Stylish | Contemporary | Traditional

Beautiful Bathrooms... for every home

t: 01778 420868 e: beaps2000@gmail.com Monday - Friday 9 am - 5.00 pm

Saturday 9 am - 4.00 pm

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UPDATES

Could your child design a colourful car? C

halk Interiors, a painted furniture boutique at the Stamford Garden Centre, is running a competition for budding young artists to win an amazing 4x4 shaped toy box worth £145. The toy boxes are made locally and can be painted to your own design. The competition asks children of any age to colour in a drawing of a toy box in the design they would most like to see in real life. Chalk is also an official stockist of the very popular ‘designer’ paint Chalk Paint™ by Annie Sloan which is what Store Manager, Kate Higginson, recommends for painting the toy boxes; “Chalk Paint covers almost any surface with no sanding or priming. Our customers love using it to upcycle their old furniture and now we have a brand new product that looks so unique which is great fun to paint. The kids can really get involved in creating a fun piece of furniture to store their toys and books.” Chalk Paint™ by Annie Sloan is popular with people of all ages, and there are no limits to what you can transform. The team at Chalk have been personally trained by Annie Sloan and are the only people in the Stamford area that have authorisation to give advice and teach the many different painting techniques. For a chance to win one of these amazing toy boxes, call in to Chalk to pick up an entry form and get inspiration from examples on display which have been beautifully hand painted. The winner will be picked on 1st November 2014 and will be announced on their Facebook page. • Chalk Interiors, Stamford Garden Centre, Great Casterton PE9 4BB Tel: 01780 752414 www.chalkinteriors.com

Be inspired by the Bathroom Stamford High School Store in Bourne Teacher Publishes US Election Book I s your bathroom looking a little tired? Fancy a new walkin shower or a free-standing bath? Or some new tiles to bring the space back to life? The Bathroom Store in Bourne is the ideal place to get inspiration. Easy to get to, on the south side of Bourne by the Tesco store, and easy parking, it definitely merits a trip. You will find a large showroom devoted to numerous different bathroom displays to suit every space, pocket and circumstance. But above all you will be inspired – be your taste modern or traditional, calming or bright colours. Prices here are very competitive with anything you will find online. But as importantly, you will get solid professional advice on what will work best for you, including a visit to check on your water pressure and which fittings will work best for you. Fitting a bathroom is not as easy as A, B, C and sound advice can make all the difference. • The Bathroom Store, Unit 3, Victor Way (off Cherryholt Rd), Bourne, PE10 9PT Tel: 01778 420868 Mon-Fri 9-5.30, Sat 9-4pm

eacher of Politics at Stamford High School, Roddy Keenan, has published his first book entitled ‘US Presidential Elections 1968 – 2008.’ The book describes the forty years following the 1968 presidential election and the significant changes that were made to the presidential nomination process. Roddy has always encouraged his students to read a wide range of political books; however he found that there was often dissatisfaction with the lack of books providing a narrative account of modern presidential races. As a result, Roddy decided to research the possibility of providing a single-volume account and, after six years his hard work has paid off. Commenting on the relevant audiences for the book, Roddy said: “It has something to offer the general reader, be they a keen follower of politics or simply an occasional reader of politics and history. For example, during presidential election cycles, one might wish to gain a contextual understanding of the present campaign by familiarising themselves with past elections. Alternatively, it can be used simply as a reference book, suitable for someone to dip into in order to read about a certain campaign, find out how certain states voted, or observe how the demographic vote has changed over the years.” Roddy has also written articles on the US electoral process that have been published in US newspapers, and in 2005, he had one of these cited on the floor of the US Senate by Senator Judd Gregg of New Hampshire. If you would like to order a copy of ‘US Presidential Elections 1968 – 2008’ it can be purchased in hard copy on Lulu Publishers site while both the hard copy and the Kindle version can be bought on Amazon STAMFORD LIVING OCTOBER 2014

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St Whites Stone Ltd STONE MASONS & CARVERS

For a quotation for Orangeries, Porticos, Entrance Steps and Mullion Windows or a general enquiry for all types of stonework listed below Please phone Rosie on 01780 450350 or 07931 387615 Email stwhitesstone@btinternet.com • • • • • •

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Spends 40 minutes examining your eyes. He caters the eye test to address your needs. The test includes digital retinal photography, glaucoma pressure check, visual field examination as standard. Gerry concludes the examination by giving advice about the most suitable eyewear.

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Stunning New Care Home in Deeping St James

In response to growing demand for our firstclass care services, we are proud to announce the opening of a new Barchester care home in Deeping St James. Braeburn Lodge, which opens in November 2014, is a purpose-built care home offering residential and nursing care, as well as expert care for people living with dementia.

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LOCAL WALK

The Polebrook to Hemington loop Reader Miles Davies introduces us to a favourite local walk, just east of Oundle Words and photos: Miles Davies

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he village of Polebrook is quintessentially English with its neatly thatched roofs and honeyed limestone walls. In the summer months it is alive with beautiful birdsong and with the recently returned house martins, swifts and swallows darting to and fro calling excitedly overhead as though in some avian Battle of Britain. It is a wonder why you would ever wish to leave the heart of the village. However just a short walk towards Hemington from the war memorial, and you are truly in the wilds of the English countryside.

The route

Head south from the war memorial passing the village church and along Hemington Rd until you reach a very sharp left hand corner. Just around this corner and to the right is a gateway in the hedgerow. Take this gateway into the field and follow the path (kindly marked by the farmer) up the hill and away from the village. At the top, and as the hill eases be sure to turn and take in the view across the valley. Continue along the marked path until you reach an old five bar gate and stile.

Cross the stile and enter a pasture. Ahead is a thick wood fenced in and with another five bar gate, this time opened on a latch. Beyond this gate a narrow path meanders away from you through the trees. Upon leaving the shade of the trees, the path leads up a small incline to the left hand corner of the field. At the corner, go left and follow the grassy path through the next field’s entrance and immediately bear right and follow the perimeter until you come to another hedgerow gap and a tarmac road.

Turn left and follow the quiet road towards the large water tower that dominates the landscape. As you walk, keeping the spinney to your left, you will come to a bridleway marked with a signpost. Take this straight path (again marked in the crops) across one field and a small bridge and then another, also with a bridge to its far side. Here you enter

a pasture. Walking diagonally across it to the right will bring you to the right hand corner of a wood and a small lily clad pond. The path leads along the right of this wood until it meets up with Hemington Rd again. Turn left here.

Follow this road, passing Kingsthorpe Farm with its row of poplar trees to your left until you reach the first tree on the right hand side, on a bend in the road. Here in the hedge below the tree is another gap and on following the path through it, diagonally up and to the left you once more get a view over Polebrook. Follow the hill down toward the village watching for the black arrows that direct your path here. Head for the small barn sitting by itself in the field, over the bridge in front of it and turn left once more. Take the next little bridge, through the next field toward the right hand side and then follow the grassy path keeping the stream to your right and head for the large farm. Here, tucked away and to the right of the terrace of houses on the farm’s yard is a sunken path that leads you once more onto Hemington Rd. A right turn here takes you back to the war memorial where you began your walk. A left at the memorial will take you towards The King’s Arms pub where you will find well-earned refreshment and a bite to eat. Total distance approximately 4 miles

Points of interest • An abundance of wildlife can be seen throughout the walk. Look out for red kites and buzzards. Rusty faced hares are also frequently seen.. • The edges of the field toward the water tower have been left fallow and the tall grasses here are alive with insect life and several species of butterfly and moth. • Keep an eye out for fossils as the ground through the wheat fields is lightly strewn with devils toenails, a type of Jurassic oyster and the occasional belemnite (prehistoric squid). STAMFORD LIVING OCTOBER 2014

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UPDATES

William Represents School in Superb Wimbledon Match S

tamford School pupil, William Bourne, represented the Independent Schools Tennis Association (ISTA) in a match against the All England Lawn Tennis Club, held at Wimbledon. He was selected from players at the ISTA Championships held annually at Eton College where around 250 boys represent 60 schools. The day consisted of a set-long match against two of the three pairs and then a two set match against the opposite number pair. William, partnering Culford’s Tom Fisher for the first time, narrowly lost their first match to pair two from the All England club (AELTC). Then, gaining momentum, saw victory against pair three, 6-2, 7-6. With the score after the second round standing at three all, both teams had everything to play for in this friendly but closely contested fixture. ISTA pair one pulled off a victory but the school’s second pair lost so, with a score of 4 all, the focus was on the final set between Bourne and Fisher and AELTC pair one that included Barry Cowan, ex-professional tennis player, and his partner, Harvard graduate Michael Kalfayan. Without any twists and turns, the match was all square at 6 games with all payers holding serve. With the crowds of supporters building up along the walkway of Court 5, the tie-break lived up to expectation, thrilling and exciting!

Life begins at 40 for local law firm Hegarty LLP F

ormer Stamford schoolboy Richard Hegarty set up his first legal practice in 1974 as a young graduate. This year, his business celebrates 40 years trading with a major £10,000 fundraising drive for Sue Ryder Thorpe Hall Hospice 1974 was not an obvious time to start a business: the UK economy was plunged into recession; there was high unemployment and a three day working week. But for young law graduate Richard Hegarty, who had grown up in Stamford and spotted the potential in the expanding ‘new town’ of neighbouring Peterborough, the decision made perfect sense. He was right: with the help of his father,

Pictured (from left to right): William Bourne and Tom Fisher

The AELTC had several match points but the ISTA boys held their nerve and took the match to 8-8. A few points in a row for Bourne and Fisher gave them a confidence boost, with some excellent shots from both players, ending with a volley interception winner from Fisher to win the match for the ISTA boys. Reflecting on the match, William said: “This was the first ISTA victory vs. the AELTC team for eight years. With the match played in good spirit, players, coaches, family and supporters could not have wished for a more exciting match. It was a day to remember and a fantastic way to round off seven years of great tennis for me at Stamford School.” William is shortly heading off to college in New York, where he will continue to develop his game. We wish him the best of luck.

an experienced legal clerk, his first office in Lincoln Road, Peterborough was an immediate success. In 1979, Richard had taken on a partner, Tim Thompson, and opened a branch office in Maiden Lane, Stamford. Business was so brisk that a larger office was needed. The firm purchased premises at 10 Ironmonger Street, which were converted into modern offices and remain the firm’s Stamford base to this day and is managed by partner Graham Peebles. Hegarty LLP was one of the very first provincial solicitors’ to offer a specialised service. In the mid1980s it was decided that there would be separate departments for property, crime, litigation and family. Always at the forefront of business, in the early 1990s, Richard Hegarty would help to develop ‘practice management standards’ which formed the basis of a national quality mark scheme called Lexcel. In addition to this, Richard spent 16 years on the Law Society Council, and has lectured extensively in practice development. Over time, the partnership grew and now consists of 9 partners and more than 70 staff members and Hegarty LLP is recognised as a significant regional law firm.

Life begins at 40 As a way to honour such an important work anniversary, 40 successful years in business, it was decided to give something back to the

community which has supported the company. Partners and staff are aspiring to raise £10,000 for Sue Ryder at Thorpe Hall. This is a cause close to many people’s hearts as it provides exceptional care for seriously ill people as well as supporting their families and a new hospice building is currently under construction. The fundraising drive, which is already underway, has included a World Cup themed dress down day and a cake sale. Staff members Ali and Ashley are going to run the Perkins Great Eastern Run on October 12, and the firm has also pledged to fill 40 collection bags to sell at the Sue Ryder charity shop. But the biggest activity planned is a trek up Snowdon which takes place at the end of September. The partners will be accompanied by 27 members of staff, putting on their walking boots and tackling the seven hour walk. It will be a challenge, but it certainly won’t be the first time that Hegarty LLP has risen to the occasion. If you would like to offer sponsorship, to know more about the Life Begins at 40 campaign, please visit ukvirginmoneygiving.com/team/Hegarty40 The firm is also seeking items to contribute towards a raffle to help achieve the target. Items sought include vouchers or experience days. If you or your company can help with the offer of a prize, please contact Angela Babb on 01733 295618 or email angela.babb@hegarty. co.uk

STAMFORD LIVING OCTOBER 2014

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UPDATES

Expert tuition at Sew Studio S

ally Best is a part time lecturer in the fashion department at Leicester’s De Montfort University, but from October, she’s passing on her expertise to people round here who would either like to start sewing or improve their existing skills. Sally’s studio at Rectory Farm Offices, near Warmington, is the ideal venue for teaching as it is light, spacious and airy. With a maximum of six students, Sally will provide a day class, with a simple lunch provided. “The aim is to provide sewing skills for making garments, as well as curtains and blinds, and for ladies who can already sew, I plan to run some pattern cutting classes,” says Sally. She is also offering a class for complete beginners. “I will provide a complete set of skills to take away,” says Sally. “They’ll have the chance to try sewing seams, hems, buttons and button holes, with samples to put in a file to reference at home.” A fun Pyjama Party workshop would be ideal for teenagers or a hen party. “So many people tell me that they can’t sew,” says Sally. “But everyone can if they want to. You need a little bit of patience, but with the right tuition, everyone can make something and it’s so satisfying!” Sally’s beginners’ courses cost £99, including lunch and all materials

(discounts for two days). Curtain and blind making, £120, two days for £220. Pyjama party is £120 per person, all materials provided. Ask about group discounts. Sewing machines provided. • The Sew Studio, Tack Room, Rectory Farm Offices, Warmington, PE8 6UT Tel: 01832 280006 email contact@thesewstudio.org www. thesewstudio.org

The ‘Undergraduate Profile’ C

larity4D is a Stamford-based company located in Willoughby House in Broad Street. The Company, which has been going for six years, has recently gained access to a UK Trade and Industry sponsored export expansion programme that will result in it more than tripling its turnover in the next 3 years if all goes well. The ‘Undergraduate Profile’ is based on an understanding of colour energies developed by the psychologist Carl Jung. How it works - The profile explains your balance of colour energies in terms of personal development, learning styles and then how this understanding can help you to make the right decisions in terms of future education, training and employment. Through the language of colour the ‘Undergraduate Profile’ not only gives increased self-understanding but helps us to better understand the behaviour of others and our interactions with them. The different colour energies each relate to different behaviours and personal preferences for your work environment. Understanding your behaviours better will help you to decide which courses or modules you might benefit from more. The profile will help you (left to right) Francesca Ralph, better understand where your Kristian Davies, Vicky Salt areas for personal development are when addressing work or assessment deadlines coming up. From a parental or educational perspective understanding students’ preferred learning styles and environments can improve communication between these relationships and prove to be beneficial for both parties. What’s Next - Clarity4D are offering the opportunity for Stamford Living readers to trial the profile in its early stages. The full Undergraduate Profile system is in BETA testing presently, however they are very happy to offer free profiles to all Stamford Living readers who do the following: 1. Email to 3 people who might be interested. 2. Fill out the evaluation form to say what they liked and didn’t like. 3. Like our facebook page • To receive your free profile contact us at: krisdavies@clarity4d.com With the email Subject code: C4DSL

Book review… Walking On Marshmallows by Janey Edkins

ou might remember Janey from our Writer’s Spot article Trample of Approval when she ‘tickled’ us with her take on village life and the pros and cons of horse effluent. Well, brace yourselves, because this author is enchanting us yet again with her new novel Walking on Marshmallows. Both funny yet touching, the book is loosely set in Rutland encompassing the turbulent lives of two sisters – one who always manages to come up smelling of roses, the other…well…stinking of manure. “Highly recommended! A great read, had me in stitches. One of the funniest books I’ve read in a long time…” “Absolutely fantastic story line, the new Bridget Jones Diary’! I laughed, I cried and sometimes gasped out loud. Finished in two days, I couldn’t put it down…” “Hilarious from start to finish…” With reviews like these it is easy to see why our local author is flying up the Amazon hotlist. ‘Writing is a vocation,’ confesses Janey. ‘Having said that a full length novel is no walk in the park, especially when you’re a hard task master like me. But the truth: I wouldn’t have it any other way, simply because I love to write.’ • If you’d like to purchase Janey’s book then pop along to Walkers Bookstore, or download on Amazon.

STAMFORD LIVING OCTOBER 2014

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Thursday 23rd October

17/09/2014 15:15

URBAN RAMBLES

Letchworth Garden City: The Best of Town & Country

Letchworth Garden City is the country’s, indeed the world’s first Garden City, and it’s only an hour down the A1. Planned in the 1900s to combine the best of ‘town and country’ living, Letchworth Garden City offers something quite different, a unique heritage and some interesting places to explore, including an impressive range of architecture, from Arts and Crafts to Art Deco. Nicholas Rudd-Jones take a look around

THE CONTEXT The industrial growth of the nineteenth century meant that British cities, especially London, were filthy, unpleasant places to live and bursting at the seams. Ebenezer Howard, visionary and planner, started to envision a type of city which combined the best of both town and country. In his words “There are, in reality, not only two alternatives - town life and country life - but a third alternative, in which all the advantages of the most energetic and active town life, with all the beauty and delight of the country, may be secured in perfect combination.” Out of this belief came the Garden City Movement and Letchworth Garden City, which was founded in 1903. Its driving architectural principles were lower density housing than in a city, zoned areas for industry away from housing, the separation of pedestrians and motor cars, plenty of green spaces and easy access to the countryside. Letchworth was followed by Welwyn Garden City and then the New Towns of the post-war years, which were all heavily influenced by the Garden City Movement, including of course Peterborough.

The route 1

Head south from the Hillshott Car Park (SG6 1NY), crossing a small road into the second half of Howard Park; bear right just after the Bowling Green to join Norton Way South and pass the International Gardens City Exhibition (a thatched building) on your left. Cross over the roundabout (the intersection with Pixmore Way) and after 50 yards or so turn right into Meadow Lane, and then next left into Lytton Avenue, then left again along South View. You will pass the Quakers’ House on your left (they were a big influence on the town) At the end of South View, cross straight over into Cloisters Rd and follow this road until you reach the strangely-shaped towers of Cloisters; turn left, then right (S) into Willian Way, which you follow until its end Then keep heading south on a footpath signposted Willian and Cycle Route 12. Pass through a kissing gate into a meadow and head down to All Saints’ Church From the pub/restaurant (The Fox) just this side of the church, head W along Willian Church Rd, bear right up Willian Rd at the junction with Wymondley Rd and then shortly you will see a gravel path on your right, heading N, which you take (also signposted Cycle Route 12). Follow this path N and you will reach the kissing gate you went through at Stage 3. Just after that the tarmacced path forks; you take the left fork (you had previously come in the other direction along the right fork); this path goes pleasantly through housing estates, then alongside St Christopher’s School playing fields, then in to Muddy Lane and the tennis club on your right until you reach the Baldock Rd

3 4 5 60

Cross straight over, past the village stores and up Spring Lane. You will soon be rewarded by the most amazing views north and south along Broadway, Letchworth’s most impressive piece of civic design. Head N and follow the Broadway all the way, past the fountains and shopping centre until you reach the station Turn left along Station Way, and shortly right along Bridge Rd, crossing the railway (the fabulous Spirella building on your left). Take the first right into Nevells Road, then the first left (N) along the quaint Quadrant On reaching Norton Common, take in as much or little of it as you have time and inclination for, and exit slightly further E and head south down Cross St, then left along Nevells Rd once again, with ‘The Settlement’ on your right. On reaching Norton Way North, head right (south) and over the next roundabout into Norton Park. Go past the ponds, fountains and shop/ toilets and you will be back at the car park.

7 8 9

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WALK DATA

Aerial View of Letchworth

Distance: 3.4 miles (5.5Kms) Height Gain â&#x20AC;&#x201C; none Typical time: 2 hours (lots of things to look at on the way) Map: Explorer 193 Luton and Stevenage Start & Finish: Hillshott Car Park (SG6 1NY) Terrain: Almost all on pavements How to get there: By car down the A1, turn off at Junction 9; or one change by train from Peterborough

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Broadway The Spirella Building

The Settlement

POINTS OF INTEREST Download www.letchworthgc.com/galleries/see_letchworths_history if you possibly can, it has lots of interesting details about the houses that you will see along the route.

Cloisters

The International Garden Cities Exhibition (296 Norton Way South), only a couple of minutes into the walk, has a good display of the history of the Garden City Movement and would be an ideal way of starting your walk. But note that it is only open on Saturdays or Sundays, or by appointment. Visit www.gardencities-exhibition.com for details. For much of the route you will walk through Letchworth’s residential areas, and see a range of houses with Arts & Crafts, Lutyens and Art Deco influences. They are at perhaps their most impressive in Broadway, the ‘poshest’ address in Letchworth. The Cloisters is an historic Grade 2* listed building. Built in 1907 by Miss Annie Lawrence as an open air school dedicated to Psychology, it is an extraordinary building designed according to the Arts and Crafts Movement. Another of Letchworth’s claims to fame is that it has the UK’s first roundabout, as you reach Broadway, built in 1909. There were only 53,000 cars registered in the whole of Britain that year, so it can’t have been very busy!

Howard’s famous illustration of the benefits of combining town and country

Broadway is the centrepiece of Letchworth, a tree-lined boulevard running north south, culminating in Broadway Gardens; originally planned to be the grand centre of Letchworth and house its civic buildings, the ‘Town Square’ failed to come to fruition, but was much improved in 2003 to celebrate the town’s centenary, with a beautiful fountain, gardens and high quality paving. The space is lovely. The Spirella Building is a reminder of the attention given to all architecture in the new town and the importance of zoning. Created for the famous Spirella corset company, the ‘factory of beauty’ (no smoke of course) promoted good working conditions and leisure facilities for their ‘Healthy Happy Workers.’ Built in three stages between 1912 and 1920, this magnificent building is now grade II* listed. Norton Common is a beautiful 63-acre Common and park in the heart of the town, within easy walking distance of the town centre and railway station, offering unspoilt grass and woodland, tennis courts, Bowling Green and a 1935 lido style outdoor pool. Built in 1907, The Skittles Inn, Letchworth’s famous ‘pub with no beer’ provided the facilities and atmosphere of a pub without the temptations of drink. In 1925, The Skittles Inn became The Settlement, a centre for adult education and local activities which is still in use today. The ban on alcohol in the Garden City lasted until 1958, and it was partly this that gave it a reputation for Letchworth people being slightly otherworldly. George Orwell rather caustically spoke of ‘every fruit juice drinker, nudist, sandal wearer, sex-maniac, Quaker, nature cure quack, pacifist and feminist in England’ as living there. The delightful Howard Park is named after Ebenezer Howard. As part of a £1.84 million Lottery-funded park restoration project, a statue of the Greek poet Sappho was placed at the heart of the renovated gardens.

STAMFORD LIVING OCTOBER 2014

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1 Not So Large pizza, 2 toppings each er, and a pint of selected be or ne wi e 175ml of hous selected soft drink

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The Berkeley Arms in Wymondham

Award Winning Country Pub Michelin Bib Gourmand Award 2012, 2013 & 2014 Melton Times Business Award Best Eating Experience 2011 & 2014 Countryside Alliance Awards - Highly Commended 2013

Exquisite Locally Sourced Food  Cask Ales  Fine Wines

01572 787587

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EATING OUT

Dameon Clarke at the Exeter Arms The Exeter Arms has always been a delightful, well-situated pub with great food and good real ales. Words: Nicholas Rudd-Jones

he Exeter Arms in Easton on the Hill has just got even better with the arrival of Dameon Clarke at the helm of the kitchen, taking it at one stroke from a pub with good food to a restaurant with ambition. Dameon is one of the region’s most accomplished and popular chefs, most recently at the Wicked Witch in Ryhall where he received rave reviews. Getting him to the Exeter Arms has been quite a coup for Sue and Sally who run the establishment. The secret of the new food offering is that it has both ambition and accessibility. If your Sunday lunch is about a hearty roast, then you will not be disappointed. But if you fancy a sashimi of tuna, you will find that too. And there is plenty for people who just want to pop in for a snack, including a good range of sandwiches; “Locals are very welcome,” Sally told me. “The Exeter Arms is very much a local pub as well as appealing to people further afield”. Perusing through the new menus, these were some of the simpler dishes that caught my eye: • The Exeter Arms’ burger with tomato and red onion jam in a floured bun with chips • King prawn risotto with parmesan and wild cress

And these were a couple for a more adventurous moment: • Sashimi of tuna with seaweed tuille, sushi rice, wasabi and mango • Sandals maple and pecan nut cooked pork collar with crispy cheek, steamed shallots, sage potatoes, tender stem broccoli and homemade apricot black pudding

My next walk up the hill from Stamford will definitely take in a meal at the Exeter Arms. I can’t wait in fact! • Exeter Arms, Easton-on-the Hill 21 Stamford Road, Easton-on-the Hill, PE9 3NS Tel: 01780 756321 www.theexeterarms.net

The Nevill Arms, Medbourne Nicholas Rudd-Jones met with colleagues Abigail and Helen at one of the region’s best eateries

ravelling to the Nevill Arms is in itself one of the great pleasures of having lunch there. Set in glorious countryside, beside a bubbling stream with a footbridge over it leading to the front door, all the houses around built in mellow local stone, one is immediately in the mood for a relaxing time. And the Nevill Arms delivers in every way. The service is excellent, the cooking is very accomplished, with a wide range of interesting ingredients and choices, beyond what you would expect for a pub restaurant. And depending on the weather and your preference, you can sit in the bar, the restaurant or the glorious yard out the back which is a suntrap. We opted for the bar and had a lovely spot by the window, looking out towards the stream. Our starters were probably the three best dishes we have ever had together – Abigail chose the ‘Pan fried scallops, crispy chorizo, sun blushed tomato ketchup’ – “beautifully cooked, and I love the sun-dried tomato purée.” Helen had the ‘Somerset mussels, with cider & apple cream sauce’, which were large, succulent and again, she loved the slightly unusual sauce. Another high point of this dish was the fresh baked cinnamon & ginger bread that accompanied it, baked on the premises only hours before. I had the ‘Blue summer crab and avocado remoulade, wasabi lime dressing’, which was delicate and delicious. For the mains, Helen had the ‘Whole Roast Quail with celeriac pomme

purée’, another example of the ambition of the kitchen; whilst I had the Indonesian duck curry, with sticky rice and an onion bhaji; which would have been the perfect dish if I had been hungrier. Something to note here – meals are filling! Abigail perhaps more sensibly opted for a second starter, the ‘crispy tempura duck with dipping sauce.’ The ambition and experimentation of the dishes made us keen to meet the kitchen team. James Ray, it turns out, had spent two years in Thailand, hence the Asian fusion themes (which will also appear on the Christmas menu). Geoff Clark learnt his trade in Cornwall, trained by his brother, who was a chef for Rick Stein – which rather explains why the seafood is so good. Both very committed to what they do, and delighted to work in a kitchen with ambitions. All in all, a great place to meet and enjoy really interesting food. • The Nevill Arms, Waterfall Way, Medbourne, LE16 8EE Tel: 01858 565288 www.thenevillearms.net STAMFORD LIVING OCTOBER 2014

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Winter Wedding Offer Have your wedding cake and eat it with us! From 1st November 2014 – 31st March 2015 Winter Wedding with us for £4995 *

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SEAN HOPE COOKS

Autumn feast

This is a hearty, comforting dish that really comes into its own now the nights are drawing in. It pays to use good quality sausages from your local butcher and a full-bodied, traditional English ale

“MY CHRISTMAS DEMOS WILL TAKE PLACE ON DECEMBER 2 AND DECEMBER 9”

A winning team It was brilliant to find out the other day that our other pub, The Red Lion Inn at Stathern, has been named Leicestershire and Rutland Dining Pub of the Year in the Good Pub Guide 2015. With The Olive Branch winning UK Pub of the Year 2014, it’s great that The Red Lion has now won recognition too. The Red Lion team have really worked hard for this, so well done to all!

Braised Lincolnshire Sausage and Puy Lentil Casserole with Roasted Butternut Squash Serves 4 • 8 Lincolnshire sausages • 4 rashers smoked bacon, cut into thin strips • 100g chorizo, roughly chopped • 200g dried puy lentils • 1 clove garlic, peeled and chopped • 1 carrot, peeled and finely chopped • 2 shallots, peeled and finely chopped • 2 celery sticks, peeled and finely chopped • 2 sprigs thyme • 2 bay leaves • 100ml Madeira

• 100ml red wine • 50ml sherry vinegar • 2 tbsp tomato puree • 1 litre chicken stock • 1 pint local ale • 1 butternut squash, peeled and cut into wedges • 50g unsalted butter • 50ml rapeseed oil • 3 sage leaves, roughly chopped • 1 clove garlic, peeled and crushed • 1 sprig thyme • 2 tbsp fresh chopped tarragon

1 In a thick-bottomed pan, seal the sausages until golden brown all over, then remove from the pan and set aside. 2 In the same pan, add the smoked bacon, chorizo and finely chopped vegetables and fry until golden brown (at this point do not season with salt as this causes the lentils to remain firm, meaning they will not break down to thicken the casserole). 3 Add the puy lentils. 4 Add the sherry vinegar and de-glaze the pan. 5 Add the Madeira and red wine and simmer for three to five minutes to cook off the alcohol. 6 Stir in the tomato puree, chicken stock and ale, and bring to the boil. 7 Turn the heat down to a light simmer and allow to cook for two and a half hours, stirring occasionally. Meanwhile, roast the butternut squash, sage, garlic and thyme in the butter and rapeseed oil until they are golden brown but still firm. 8 After the lentil and stock mixture has simmered for the full 90 minutes, add the sausages and cooked butternut squash and continue to simmer for a further 30 minutes, or until creamy and soft. 9 Finish with fresh chopped tarragon and a drizzle of chorizo oil.

• My autumn cookery demonstrations will take place on Tuesday, October 7 at The Olive Branch and Tuesday, October 14 at The Red Lion Inn. I’ll be cooking pan-seared king scallops, crab apples and celeriac puree to start; roast haunch of fallow buck with beetroot marmalade, piccolo and parsnips for main; and chocolate coffee mousse with milk sorbet for dessert. My Christmas demos will take place on December 2 and December 9. Call 01780 410355 for further details and to book.

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. STAMFORD LIVING OCTOBER 2014

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oft Logs has been operating for six years and what started out as a small scale farm diversiďŹ cation has grown to the extent that we are now the largest local supplier of barn dried and kiln dried hardwood logs. Our philosophy is simple. We do not sell wet wood. All our timber is either barn dried or kiln dried. We cut and stockpile up to 500 tonnes of logs which we barn dry through the summer. These logs are generally sold by Christmas. To maintain our supplies of dry wood through the rest of the winter we use our biomass boilers to kiln dry our logs. Unfortunately the sale of logs is completely unregulated and for this reason we welcome visitors to our yard to discuss their requirements and view the logs they will purchase. However we do have an excellent website containing all the relevant information needed.

Visit us at www.toftlogs.co.uk or alternatively contact us on 01778 395550 or 07748 107473

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FOOD & DRINK

An artisan dairy achieving national recognition Sarah went to visit Belvoir Ridge Creamery in the Vale of Belvoir and tried out their wonderful artisan cheeses and fresh Red Poll milk

n 2014 Belvoir Ridge Creamery was awarded first prize from The Nantwich Show for milk produced from their Ironstone herd of Red Polls. With plenty of red ribbons and a herd of Red Polls the connection to red is a story Jane is keen to tell. Red Polls, a dual-purpose breed, are reputed for producing milk high in protein which is excellent for cheese. The fat molecule is smaller and so the milk is easier to digest. Adding to the strand of red running through the farm’s history is the little known fact that Crossroads Farm was historically called ‘Red Lodge’ – a hunting lodge. The connection continues through to the farm land – known as ‘red land’ for its iron rich soil. “One connection leads to another,” says Jane. “And it begins to make sense”.

“Alan was born through and through a farmer,” says Jane. His passionate commitment to the girls has been longstanding when at the age of only 5 Alan was gifted his first cow Creamy, and then Sugar followed. “I got quite jealous of Sugar and bought a camel coat so I would look more like a Jersey,” jokes Jane. But humour aside, it is Alan’s huge character and warm, nurturing manner that contributes to the subtle but delicious tastes of the farm’s artisan cheeses and fresh milk. I pick up on this delicate detail as I watch Alan through an observation window prepare a vat of cheese as he meticulously adds the starter and then the vegetarian rennet while I speak with Jane in their newly built cheese room. Already producers of Slipcote Cheese – a cheese that starts like a brie and gets beyond to a camembert - an invitation to reproduce Colwick Cheese started with a visit from Michael Callaghan, organiser of the Melton Mowbray Artisan Cheese Fair. As the story goes, he discovered a recipe for Colwick cheese, a cheese that originates from the town of Colwick in Nottinghamshire possibly around the 1600s, in a book while living on a farm in Brazil. No longer consigned to the history books, the cheese was a success there and so on his return he approached Alan and Jane. Enthusiastic about the idea, the couple went on to revive this exceptional cheese made with the milk from their 60 strong herd of Red Polls and Blue Albion cows; primarily fed on a nutrient pasture of yarrow and chicory; known individually by name and ‘udders’ by Alan! Colwick is a soft curdy cheese and because of the way it is made has a unique bowl shape where traditionally folk would place all sorts of flavourings in the curved dip in the centre of the cheese to include jam, cream or soft fruits for a sweet infusion; and onions, garlic or bread for savoury. As we moved from the cheese making room to the farm kitchen

Jane produces a delightfully delicious homemade black berry vinegar with olive oil, crushed garlic dressing; fresh figs and Jane’s own home produced honey for me to try with Colwick. The flavours are staggeringly delicious. Jane and Alan together produced 1,000 Colwick cheeses for the Melton Artisan Cheese Fair in 2013. High praise and much interest followed with an email from Jamie Oliver. Since then the couple’s cheese making has rocketed along with their national fame after appearing on Jamie and Jimmy’s Friday Night Feast (Channel 4) in January 2014. At present the Hewsons supply 500 Colwicks a week to Jamie’s Italian restaurants. Jamie’s support doesn’t end there, with a college connection now acquiring Red Poll calves from the Hewsons. Adding to this is Jane and Alan’s involvement and support of the Rare Breeds Survival Trust and Slow Food UK

Milk and Cheese Ironstone Red Poll Milk – Fresh pasteurised (not homogenised) milk from the farm’s vending machine sells for £1.00 a litre. Slipcote Cheese – Hambleton Fine Foods, Gaol Street, Oakham Colwick Cheese – Find on the menu at the Olive Branch in Clipsham , The Marquess of Exeter in Lyddington nr Uppingham and the King’s Arms, Wing. Head chef and patron, James Goss at the King’s Arms, Wing, Rutland comments: “We fell in love with Colwick Cheese for its mild, versatile nature and taste. Served warm with chutney or crumbled over heritage tomatoes with a drizzle of rape seed oil or even stuffed into courgette flowers deep fried in tempura we love the results.” • Contact Email: jane.hewson@btconnect.com, Twitter: @belvoirridge, Web: www.belvoirridge.co.uk STAMFORD LIVING OCTOBER 2014

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DIARY DATES

What’s On Amander Meade selects some of the best entertainment in the region this month

Saturday 4 October to Sunday 12 October EVENT: Burghley Flower Festival The magnificent State Rooms will be transformed with beautiful floral displays created by local flower societies. Offering a new perspective on England’s greatest Elizabethan House each room will inspire floral arrangements with societies taking their inspiration from this year’s theme, ‘Cities on the Grand Tour’. Valid with a House and Gardens or House only ticket £13/£6.50 Tel: 01780 752451 www. burghley.co.uk Saturday 4 October, 7.30pm OPERA: The Magic Flute – Young Opera Venture A colourful and exciting new production performed by a cast of seventeen prize-winning young singers chosen from the best of the latest generation of performers from all over the UK. The Magic Flute will be performed in English with an orchestra of fifteen young professional musicians. Stamford Corn Exchange Theatre Tickets £18.50 Tel: 01780 766455 Sunday 5 October, 12pm to 4pm EVENT: Autumn Birdwatch Join expert Philip Rudkin for a bird-spotting tour of Barnsdale’s thirty nine gardens which provide a wide variety of habitats for wildlife.

Even the youngest visitor will be able to get a great view using the woodland webcam. You can also see local woodworkers from Rural Reclaimed Crafts building bird-boxes for sale, and make a simple bird feeder yourself to take home. Everyone is welcome from the experienced bird watcher to the complete novice. Barnsdale Gardens, Exton Free with Garden admission Adult £7, Concession £6, Child £3, family (up to 5) £19.

All Blacks and is the world’s most capped hooker. Sean is still very much involved in rugby; he is currently an author and journalist for various international publications and is a regular columnist for the Sunday Times, as well as a pundit on Sky Sports. Barnsdale Lodge Hotel Tickets £39 to include a raffle with proceeds to the Rotary Foundation and local charities. Tickets from Alan Gray Tel: 01780 766102 or Geoff Jones Tel: 01572 747715

Monday 6 to Saturday 18 October, 10am to 4pm daily EXHIBITION: Welland Valley Arts Society Autumn Exhibition Local artists display their work in a variety of media. Most works are for sale and artists will be available for information and commission. Admission is free. Stamford Gallery

Wednesday 8 to Saturday 11 October, 7.30pm (Saturday matinee 2.30pm) MUSIC: Stamford Gilbert & Sullivan Players present Ruddigore The usual patchwork of intrigue and unrequited love is eventually resolved in Gilbertian style to everyone’s satisfaction. Ruddigore has some of Sullivan’s best music and is considered a favourite by many G&S fans. Stamford Corn Exchange Theatre Tickets £13.50/£7 Tel: 01780 766455

Monday 6 October, 6.45 for 7.30pm EVENT: Rotary Sporting Dinner Burghley Rotary Club have secured one of Rugby Union’s greatest players, Former All Blacks Rugby Captain Sean Fitzpatrick, to speak at their annual Sporting dinner. Sean is one of the greatest international rugby players of all time and one of the most successful sportsmen of the twentieth century. He holds the world record for playing in sixty three consecutive test matches for the New Zealand

Saturday 18 October, 7.30pm to midnight EVENT: A Classy Celtic Ceilidh Anna’s Hope invite you to spend an evening with Govannen, one of the best Celtic music bands in the UK whilst raising money for children and young adults with a brain tumour. Wittering Grange With a hog roast, and bar tickets are £35 each Tel: 01780 740492. STAMFORD LIVING OCTOBER 2014

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Friday 7th November 7pm - 9pm

Saturday 8th November 10am - 3pm £4 entry on the door

Easton on the Hill

- Catwalk Show - Live Auction - Dinner - Enter tainment - Bar - Goody Bags - Fashion Boutiques -

Tickets £25 VIP package £40

Or treat yourself to a

(7pm)

For tickets email admin@annashope.co.uk or call 01780 740 492

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DIARY DATES

What’s On Saturday 25 October and Sunday 26 October EVENT: Autumn Craft, Food and Gift Fair Living Heritage events return for a weekend of craft and food shopping along with working demonstrations of traditional English crafts. From ceramics and jewellery to glass blowing and bee keeping, there is something for everyone as well as children’s entertainment and the popular Food Hall. Burghley House, Stamford Tickets and more information Tel: 01283 820548 www.livingheritagecraftshows.co.uk Thursday 30 October, 7.30pm EVENT: Fashion Show in support of Anna’s Hope A must for all fashion lovers featuring local favourite boutiques Attic and Arch Dress Agency as well as high street favourites White Stuff and Phase Eight. As well as a catwalk show guests will enjoy a live auction, dinner, entertainment and a goody bag. The Haycock Hotel, Wansford £25 per person or treat yourself to a VIP package from 7pm for £40. Tickets and information Tel: Tel: 01780 740492. Friday 31 October and Saturday 1 November, hourly between 6.30pm and 9.30pm EVENT: Stamford Ghost Walk Experience for Halloween Soak up the haunting atmosphere of Stamford’s streets and passageways with local actor and director, Martin Tempest. Experience a guided journey through the darker side of the town’s history on this spine tingling tour filled with an entrancing blend of horror, history and humour. Recommended for those aged 8 years and upwards. Starting from Stamford Arts Centre. £6 per person, for booking Tel: 01780 763203 Saturday 1 November, 8pm EVENT: John Shuttleworth – A Wee Ken To Remember John planned to share memories of his favourite past weekends but a typo on the poster means he is obliged to spend the evening paying homage to his next door neighbour, the diminutive Ken Worthington. “His stand up is second to none..” The Guardian. Stamford Theatre Tickets £10 Tel: 01780 763203 www.stamfordartscentre.co.uk

FAMILY SHOWS AND SCHOOL HOLIDAY FUN… The Queen’s Knickers

Monday 20 October to Saturday 1 November EVENT: Spooky Tours Prepare to be scared with the spine chilling Spooky tours which take visitors down into the creepy cellars, the forbidding outbuildings and centuries old cloisters by flickering torchlight while unearthing Burghley’s secret history. Places are limited so book early via www.burghley.co.uk or Tel: 01780 752451 Saturday 25 October, 11am to 4pm EVENT: Pumpkin Day The event is open to all, and as well as picking your pumpkin from the fields you’ll be able to carve it ready for Halloween. There will be tractor rides and the opportunity for a stroll around the farm for some wildlife spotting. Plus, plenty of indoor activities in one of Riverford’s barns including cooking demonstrations, live music, face painting, apple pressing, spooky science, and storytelling. Riverford’s Organic Farm, Sacrewell, Peterborough There is no need to book in advance. Entry is free and free parking is provided. Details can be found at www.riverford.co.uk/sacrewell or Tel: 01803 762059. Sunday 26 October, 2pm Andy & Mike’s Tick Tock Time Machine Starring Andy Day from CBeebies with his comedy partner, Mike James, this show combines their trademark infectious energy and their irrepressible sense of fun. Stumbling across a time machine, the boys go on a quest into the past but need your help to make it back to the here and now. Stamford Corn Exchange Theatre Tickets £12, Family Ticket (4) £42 Tel: 01780 766455

Monday 27 October, 12pm to 4pm EVENT: Scary Spooktacular Head to Barnsdale Gardens for a walk in the weird woods, or take part in the terrifying treasure hunt. Get your face painted in a scary style or try your hand at big prize grisly games. Frightening fun for all the family this Halloween. Kids in costume visit free. Barnsdale Gardens Free with garden admission - Adults £7, Concessions £6, Children £3 (or free in fancy dress) Wednesday 29 October, 2pm The Queen’s Knickers This children’s classic is a comedy for wise young children about hysterical adults, told by two elastic actors. Everyone can see the Queen’s smart outfits but what does she wear underneath? A celebration of the garments we all wear but never show, this children’s classic is inventively told combining stand-up comedy, clowning and lots of fun. Fifty minutes running time with no interval. Suitable for children of three years upwards. Stamford Theatre Tickets £9.50 or £32 for a family ticket (4). Friday 31 October, 10am to 12 noon, or 1pm to 3pm EVENT: Spooky Halloween Workshop Have fun with Liz Paige at a special Halloween themed day. Create a mask, decorate a spider to frighten your Mum and Dad and join in with some fun Halloween stories and songs. Suitable for ages 6 – 12 years. (Under 6s are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult.) Stamford Arts Centre £7 per child per session. Tel: 01780 763203 STAMFORD LIVING OCTOBER 2014

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A PLACE OF RELAXATION...

A PLACE OF RECREATION...

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Auburn Hill Whatever your idea of the perfect space, you’ll find it at Auburn Hill. Every build is completely bespoke, as is our service to you. You choose your materials, and your preferred way of working with us, and we’ll do the rest. To request a design consultation, visit www.ahorangeries.co.uk or call us on 01780 400 500. Alternatively, why not visit our Ketton Showhome.

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

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ASK LEO

Ann James – Textile Artist

Jean Orpin and Sue Lee are overwhelmed by the talent of a local textile artist

Birds & Butterfly

Early beginnings Ann learnt to sew before she could read and write! Her mother was a keen dressmaker and taught her to stitch as a small child. Later, her mother joined an embroidery class where her teacher from the Royal School of Needlework inspired mother and then daughter.

Career When she was married and living at Sawtry, Ann spent three years studying at Cambridge for a City & Guilds qualification in Creative Embroidery. Students were encouraged to start with traditional embroidery but then to produce creative work breaking all the rules. This was something Ann found difficult to start with but something at which she has become very proficient. For a while Ann’s career took a different turn with courses in Home Economics and Food Hygiene, a Diploma and then Teaching Certificate. By now Ann was living in the Stamford area and fortunately she happened to be in the right place at the right time. The needlework teacher at Stamford College gave up, Ann stepped into her shoes and many years of teaching followed. For a while, when numbers at the College were not sufficient, Ann and her class moved to a storeroom at the back of a shop on Maiden Lane; however the popularity of the class outgrew the premises and Ann returned to Focus, the adult education centre on Green Lane.

Stamford hanging

Creativity Ann is a keen member of the Rutland & Stamford Embroiderers’ Guild and throughout the time she was teaching she continued to produce her own creative work. The light windowed attic of her home has made a superb workshop. Shelves surround the long thin room, underneath are stacked boxes of fabric and other materials that she recycles and on top are a vast array of accessories and tools. In the centre are two tables one with sewing machine and a taller one for cutting, fitting and the many processes that go into making such a diversity of pieces. The extent of her skills and the variety of the techniques she has used at different times are remarkable. One of her earliest creations was made from a piece of canvas. She has turned her hand to quilting, applique, felting and many more unusual procedures. Hand-stitching remains essential for some of her work but Ann’s sewing machine has had many applications and other tools include a soldering iron! Over the years Ann has completed commissions for churches, entered (and won) competitions, exhibited widely, made gifts for family and friends but, first and foremost, she gives the impression that the pure pleasure of creativity is what matters. She is inspired by all manner of things around here and is always moving on to something new. She says that whatever she is doing at the moment is what she likes most. And what she is doing at the moment is scrunching up magazine paper, painting it and sewing it - the results are exquisite. STAMFORD LIVING OCTOBER 2014

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ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR

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All aspects of carpentry and building work undertaken Tel: 01780 489233 - Mob: 07703 056260 Matt@mpcarpentryandbuilding.co.uk

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 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 Stone & Brickwork â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Repointing â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Rendering% *&% 6 ( "-&(" 3 '& %* % 3 % ( % ( / %* )'&" $ ( ( $ + # % ) Energy Efficient Bespoke Timber Frame Buildings (&! * % $ %* RENOVATION & RESTORATION ) Render & Lime plastering%

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10/06/2014

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• SL Oct.indd 55

18/09/2014 13:41

STAMFORD PEOPLE

Anthony Partington; Principal Stamford Welland Academy Interview, Words & Photography: Harjit Gammon

nthony Partington is a man on a mission. A mission to establish a new secondary school for Stamford. The Cambridge Meridian Academies Trust (CMAT), the trust behind Stamford Welland Academy, took on the task in June 2014, appointing Partington as its first principal. The new academy is housed in legacy buildings, the old Queen Eleanor School, in Green Lane. Demand for a new secondary school for Stamford was evident from proposals for a Free School, which attracted around 1,500 sign-ups from local parents. The Department for Education however came to the view that, whilst a free school for Stamford was a strong bid, a better solution/value for money option was to use the existing buildings of Queen Eleanor School. CMAT was chosen as the business to run it, having already successfully turned around five schools in the region, including four secondaries and one primary. The trust has a proven method, which encompasses everything from the physical buildings, through staff selection, teaching methods, uniform and, as already implemented, a new visual identity (lion logo) and nomenclature for the school to signal the change. Changes to the uniform, in the first instance new ties and blazer badges funded by the academy, are imminent; with a more significant overhaul of the uniform to follow in consultation with parents and pupils. Partington stresses that parents of pupils already at the school at the time of the change will not be required to fund the new uniform - the academy will bear the cost. Over the summer break Partington has set in motion the substantive new start; re-interviewing senior staff to form a new structure of senior tutors (Student Support Advisors or SSAs) and introducing a house system. Pupils will be allocated to one of three houses. Together with this, a new system of Vertical Tutoring will be implemented; whereby children from each year group throughout the school (Years 7-11) will be tutored together. The aim is that, “Every child is known, every child is supported, everybody achieves”. The changes will also encompass the curriculum, which will have an academic bent with a strong focus on maths, English, science and languages. Specifically, science will be taught as separate subjects, while modern foreign languages (French, Spanish & Italian) will in time be augmented by more aspirational languages such as Mandarin to address the desires of parents as expressed in the proposals for a Free School. Further changes will concentrate on the relationship between school and parents, with a new system of timely and regular information sharing designed to

“Over the summer break Partington has set in motion the substantive new start; reinterviewing senior staff to form a new structure of senior tutors (Student Support Advisors or SSAs) and introducing a house system.”

encourage open on-going contact, via face-toface meetings, email and telephone. Students will also be offered opportunities to develop broader skills through a programme of extra-curricular activities between 3-4pm every day after the end of the statutory day at 3pm. Those in Key Stage 3 will be required to participate in at least one session per week rising to a minimum of two in Key Stage 4. In addition to this rigorous programme of change, are a clear set of predetermined markers of success, including: 120 pupils in each year group specifying Stamford Welland Academy as first choice; Good Ofsted rating (as a newly sponsored academy an Ofsted inspection will be due in its second full year of operation-2015/16); Results well in excess of national average; Add Value to each child. The far reaching changes will also extend to the governing body, which will be reconstituted.

The Trust will appoint governors. If there were any doubt, it is evident that the planned changes are more than just cosmetic dressing. In summary, I invited Partington to sum up what Stamford Welland Academy has to offer to parents of secondary age children in Stamford fearful of their children being the ‘guinea pigs’, as it were, in a new experiment, “You are signing your child up to a trust delivering known results, to achieve the greatest potential for your child. I am not an individual; I represent a whole team and philosophy”. Anthony Partington has a background in various academies. He began 7 years ago as Director of English Faculty at Parkside Federation. He joined CMAT 4 years ago as Assistant Principal at Nene Park Academy (formerly Orton Longueville), where he later became Vice Principal.

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