Stamford Living March 2025

STAMFORD LIVING

March 2025

THIS EDITION INCLUDES:

Mothering Sunday: Exquisite Floral Designs from Ode to Joy

Equilibrium: Celebrating 20 Years & Launching Clarins’ Precious Range

Indie Food: Learn to Cook with The Blonde Beet

HELLO MARCH 2025

Our word of the month is ‘philocaly’, meaning a love of beauty even in the smallest things.

And what better month to think of small, beautiful things than March, when nature really seems to get going again – we have enjoyed snowdrops, cyclamen and hellebores so far… and now we have the glorious pleasure of daffodils. And, of course, the bees and butterflies will start up again – the sighting of the first Orange Tip or Brimstone butterfly of spring is always a moment of maximum delight.

And as well as nature, we have humankind’s beauty, in the shape of art and culture. This month our What’s On pages are brimming with beautiful local cultural events to enjoy – take a closer look, something might just illuminate your month and give you a pure moment of ‘philocaly’.

Enjoy the start of spring.

Editors Nicholas & Clare

Website: www.stamfordandrutlandliving.co.uk

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

THE TEAM

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

PUBLISHER & EDITOR

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

EDITOR & EDITORIAL DESIGN

Clare Rudd-Jones

ADVERTISEMENT SALES

Rutland & Market Harborough

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

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

ADVERTISEMENT PRODUCTION

Ad Copy Manager: Rachel Beecroft Ad Designer: Sarah Patterson

Please note that this magazine now also incorporates Nene Valley Living & Market Harborough Living.

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

SUBSCRIPTIONS

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

COVER

Stamford Living: flowers from Ode to Joy photographed by owner Yana (see p12). Rutland Living: fashion for For Rutland (see p28). Photo: Elli Dean.

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Le Blanc Fine Art | Workshop

Sculpt a Clay portrait from life 11-13 April | 10am-4pm £450 includes materials, refreshments and lunch

Suitable for beginner and advanced sculptors. Maximum of 7 students allowing for individual attention. Included is a convivial sit-down lunch together in our gallery with views over the sculpture garden.

To find out more and book your place please contact: faye@leblancfineart.com | 01572 787503 Manor House, Saxby. LE14 2RR leblancfineart.com

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

Image courtesy of William Yeoward

Timeless and modern

THE MARCH LANDSCAPE

ST PETER’S GREEN is a delightful, quiet spot in the middle of Stamford. St Peter’s Church was one of the two churches in Stamford named in the Domesday Book. It was demolished in 1560 and incorporated in the All Saints parish, but the main part of the site is preserved, fortunately having been spared the fate of the adjacent castle grounds (now the bus station).

Before World War II, the site was defined by a stone wall with railings. In its centre stood a Russian 24-pounder gun captured in the Crimean War and brought to Stamford with much ceremony in 1858. The total cost of the wall, the railings, the planting of the green and the carriage of the gun amounted to £200 and 14 shillings, a sum that was raised by public subscription.

The gun and the railings were removed in 1940 to be melted down for munitions (you can still see the sawn-off bases of the railings), but the wall and gates have survived. The gates were restored in time for the Golden Jubilee in 2002.

Nowadays, the St Peter’s Community Group holds several of its events there, including Christmas carols every December.

The green looks especially beautiful on bright spring days, when daffodils, crocuses and the occasional tulip bob their heads.

THIS MONTH WE LOVE…

SOPHIE ALLPORT’S WILD FLORAL DESIGNS

Bring a floral flourish to your home with Stamford retailer Sophie Allport’s new ‘Wild Floral’ collection, featuring greenery, wildflower stems and intricate illustrations of butterflies, ladybirds, bees and dragonflies. We especially love this pretty cotton makeup bag (£22). sophieallport.com

ODE TO JOY’S EXQUISITE FLOWERS

Colour palettes at Ode to Joy in Stamford have a soft, harmonious tone that is sophisticated and utterly romantic. ‘Our flowers whisper, they never shout.’ Seasonal, sustainably sourced , stunning –and (hint, hint) the perfect gift for Mothering Sunday. odetojoyflowers.com

PELEGRIMS

AT GOODWIN & BELLE

Spring days can still be chilly, so keep hands moisturised with an indulgent hand cream. Among our favourites is Pelegrims’ hand pomade. It’s hydrating but never greasy, and it comes in a handy mini size to pop in a handbag. Find the range at the über-stylish Goodwin & Belle of Uppingham. goodwinandbelle.co.uk

NEW BOOK BY LOCAL AUTHOR A WILDING YEAR

Hannah Dale, artist and founder of Wrendale Designs (homewares, stationery, accessories, etc, sold across our region), takes you through a year on her farm in rural Lincolnshire, where, alongside her husband, she has undertaken an ambitious rewilding project. This stunningly illustrated hardback comes out on 13 March, with a RRP of £14.99. We’ve seen an advance of the book, and it is beautiful . Buy your copy at local bookshops including Walkers of Oakham and Stamford. wrendaledesigns.co.uk

WHAT’S ON IN MARCH

A SELECTION OF EVENTS TAKING PLACE ACROSS OUR BEAUTIFUL REGION THIS MONTH

1

WORKSHOP

Colour Analysis Workshop with Lindsay Edmeades Colour & Style at Rutland Nursery

2–4pm, £25 per person, incl. refreshments

Discover the power of colour and how it will enhance your natural look as well as boost your confidence and wellbeing at this colour analysis workshop. Learn about the science of tonal colour analysis and why wearing your most flattering colours is so important. Each person will discover their dominant colouring type and receive a printed colour guide with eight of their most

flattering shades to take home. Lindsay Edmeades is an Image Consultant trained by Colour Me Beautiful, the international leader in the colour, image and styling industry. www.lecolourandstyle.com

LIVE MUSIC

Katherine Priddy at Stamford Arts Centre 7.30pm, £18

February 2024 saw the release of Katherine Priddy’s eagerly awaited second album, ‘The Pendulum Swing’. Greeted by critical acclaim in the press, including MOJO, who called it ‘simply brilliant’, the album landed at #1 in the official UK Folk Charts. With her biggest headline tour to date selling out most cities and her reputation growing, Katherine was asked to perform

on the legendary Later with Jools Holland (25 May) on BBC2. She now returns for the final run of The Pendulum Swing Tour.

4–8

THEATRE

A Taste of Honey at Stamford Arts Centre

7.45pm, except Sat 8, when there is an earlier start time of 6.30pm, £12 (£10 conc) Shelagh Delaney’s, darkly comic depiction of controversial social issues and prejudice shook British society when it first hit theatres. Its power remains today in this production by resident theatre company, Stamford Shoestring.

OPPOSITE: Katherine Priddy. BELOW: Sara Oschlag.

It is Salford, 1958. A comfortless flat where the relationship between Helen and daughter Jo is breaking down. Months pass, and Jo finds herself alone. Supported by her friend, Geoff, Jo attempts to navigate the uncertainties of life below the breadline. In seeking a better life, however, Jo discovers a powerful truth at the heart of working-class England: friendship, love and hope can be found in strange places.

6

CINEMA

Cinema for Rutland at Rutland County Museum

Doors open at 7pm for a 7.30pm showing, £7.50

This month’s Cinema for Rutland is ‘Small Things Like These’ (12A), directed by Tim Mielants and starring Cillian Murphy, Eileen Walsh, Emily Watson and Clare Dunne. Devoted father Bill Furlong discovers disturbing secrets kept by the local convent and uncovers shocking truths of his own.

7

POTTERY COURSE

Pottery 5-Week Course at Rutland Nursery

Fridays, 7 March–4 April (10.30am–12.30pm or 1–3pm), £175 for 5 weeks, incl all materials & kiln firings

Discover the joy of working with clay in a hands-on pottery course led by

ceramic artist Katherine Staples and aimed at all levels. Over 5 weeks, you’ll explore a range of techniques, including hand-building, slabbuilding, decorating and glazing. To book your place or find out more, contact Katherine directly on 07760 427758 or email katherinestaples@outlook.com

8

LIVE MUSIC

Young Musicians Showcase at Oakham School Chapel

7.30pm, £10

Rutland Sinfonia’s third concert of the 2024–25 season showcases the talents of two young local musicians: Felipe Klepin-Salles on piano and soprano Evie Holder. The conductor is Paul Hilliam, and the programme includes Weber’s Overture Der Freischutz; Mozart’s Piano Concerto No.25 (1st Movement); Mozart’s Exsultate Jubilate; and Brahms’ Symphony No.1.

LIVE MUSIC

Sara Oschlag – Orpheus Arts at Stamford Methodist Church

7.30pm, £18 (£15, £10 conc)

Suitable for ages 11+

Danish jazz singer Sara Oschlag has made a name for herself as a leader and featured guest in bands across the UK and Europe. An intelligent interpreter of songs in the jazz tradition, she has been hailed as a musician’s singer due to her wonderful way of using dynamics, texture and rhythm. Her honest stage presence, expressive voice and

effortless sense of swing have made her a firm favourite with musicians and the jazz audience. She will be performing with Mark Edwards (piano), Arnie Somogyi (double bass) and Darren Beckett (drums).

Book via Stamford Arts Centre. Also find out more at www.steveandrewsmusic.co.uk

LIVE MUSIC

The Maxwell Quartet at Stamford Arts Centre 7.30pm, £22 (£20 conc)

The Maxwell Quartet combines a refined approach to classical works with a passion for its own folk heritage and a commitment to expanding the string quartet repertoire through wide-ranging projects. Strongly connected to its own Scottish roots, the group often performs classical repertoire and new music alongside folk-inspired works. This programme includes Haydn, Dvořák and the music of Scotland. www.maxwellstringquartet.com

15

OPEN GARDENS

Burghley House: South Gardens Spring Opening 15 March until 21 April (except 11 April), 10am–5pm, from £10 adults, £8 children Enjoy the magnificent seasonal displays in Burghley’s South Gardens, as the spring blooms give an injection of colour into the beautiful 28-acre garden. From 15 March, these historic gardens will be transformed with an installation from artistic duo Graphic Rewilding; featuring

CULTURE, EVENTS, WORKSHOPS

VENUES

• Le Blanc Fine Art Manor House, Saxby LE14 2RR, 01572 787503, leblancfineart.com

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

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

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

• Oakham School Chapel Close, Market Place, Oakham LE15 6DT, 01572 758500 oakham.rutland.sch.uk

• Peterborough Cathedral Peterborough PE1 1XS, 01733 355315, peterborough-cathedral.org.uk

• Rutland County Museum Catmos Street, Oakham LE15 6HW, 01572 758440, rutlandcountymuseum.org.uk

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

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

• Stamford Methodist Church 11 Barn Hill, Stamford PE9 2AE, stamfordmethodistchurch.org.uk

• Victoria Hall 39b High Street, Oakham LE15 6AH, 01572 722496, victoriahall.org

WHAT’S ON IN MARCH

striking botanical flags inspired by Burghley’s landscape and collections, the exhibition celebrates the harmony between art, nature, and history, bringing a bold new vision to Burghley’s stunning grounds.

The installation with remain in the South Gardens until 21 April, then from 26 April it will move to the Sculpture Garden for the summer.

15

LIVE MUSIC

Tim Kliphuis Trio at Stamford Arts Centre 7.30pm, £20 (£18 conc)

Founded in 2006 after meeting in a small Russian cultural café in Glasgow called Café Cossachok, the Tim Kliphuis Trio is one of the world’s top string groups, performing a beautifully varied repertoire sourced from classical music, gypsy jazz and folk. They will be presenting their brand new ‘Pictures at an Exhibition’, showcasing the daring innovations of Mussorgsky’s music through a unique and exciting lens.

16

GUIDED WALK

Spring Tree Walk at Easton Walled Gardens

Join Monty Cholmeley, trained woodworker and arboriculturist, at the Coffee Room for a welcome drink and cake before embarking on an exclusive spring walk around Easton Park, looking at the trees that grow there. Spring is a great time to inspect emerging foliage, early flowers and bark patterns and to enjoy the variety of trees that have been planted in the Gardens and Park at Easton over the last 300 years.

22

TALK & EXHIBITION

Studio Potter Akiko Hirai at Goldmark Gallery

22 March through April; entry is free, but booking is required for the artist’s talk on launch day (1pm lunch, 2pm talk)

Akiko Hirai never dreamed of becoming a potter, yet in recent years, she has found herself one of the most sought-after makers of her generation. After relinquishing her post as Head of Ceramics at Kensington and Chelsea college in 2015 to tackle the demand for her work, she has enjoyed knockout shows throughout the UK. Her latest will be a landmark exhibition at the Goldmark Gallery, Uppingham, opening on 22 March and running through April. There will be an online walk through the exhibition available 24/7 on goldmarkart.com as well as updates on goldmark.tv.

On Saturday, 22 March there will be a live Q&A with gallery owner Mike Goldmark and Akiko; booking is required – just email or call the gallery to arrange this. Prior to the talk, there will be fizz and a light buffet lunch for those attending.

LIVE

MUSIC

A Musical Tale of Mozart with Stamford Chamber Orchestra

At Barn Hill Methodist Chuch, 6–7pm, £15 (£13.50 conc, £5 children)

Stamford Chamber Orchestra will be accompanied by its Children’s Choir and student players as it celebrates Mozart’s Jupiter Symphony No.41 and Haydn’s Toy Symphony. There will also be a magical journey through Mozart’s life, with a new work based on his most famous tunes. For more information on the orchestra, see our interview with leader, Anja Smith, on p20.

LIVE MUSIC

Surround Sound Playlist –Immersive Classical Experience

Peterborough Cathedral 7pm, pay what you can (£5–35)

Lighting states shift and capture the mood as a seamless musical sequence fills the magical space from all directions… like an eclectic playlist, but live and all around you, with orchestral drama, solo virtuosity and heartbursting choral beauty.

Studio potter Akiko Hirai (Photo: Philip Sinden)

WHAT’S ON IN MARCH

There will be orchestral, choral, solo and chamber music by Bruckner, Copland, Ēriks Ešenvalds, Handel, Morten Lauridsen, Parry, Prokofiev, Caroline Shaw, Vivaldi and more. Performers include Amy Dickson on saxophone, Joseph Tawadros, Tenebrae and the Britten Sinfonia.

23

FOOD FESTIVAL

Rutland Food & Drink Festival 11am–4pm, free entry

A celebration of the county’s food, with stalls inside Oakham Castle, in the castle grounds, on the Market Place and along the High Street.

27

TALK

Justin Reay at the Arts Society Oakham Victoria Hall, 11am, £5 for guests Can Computers Cry? Art touches human emotions which machines cannot feel. Art of all kinds can touch us and make us respond, often beyond the expectation of the artist.

Happiness, sadness, pity, compassion, a spiritual uplifting, curiosity, all human emotions that even the most sophisticated digital programming will never match. Justin demonstrates how art arises from human imagination to feed our emotions, and discusses the difference between mere imitation of the physical world – which even robots can be taught to do – and the creation of truly human art which enhances our lives. www.theartssocietyoakham.org.uk

TALK

Adam Frost at Rutland Nursery 7pm with book signing from 8.30pm, £38pp (wine/non-alcoholic drinks will be served)

Spend an unforgettable evening in the company of Adam Frost, one of the most charismatic figures in gardening today. As a regular presenter on BBC Gardeners’ World, author of numerous gardening books and winner of no fewer than seven RHS Chelsea Gold Medals, Adam comes to Rutland Nursery with fascinating stories and deep insight. Garden designer, writer and editor Chris Young will explore the inspiration behind Adam’s new book ‘For the Love of Plants’, his passion for gardening, the plants that have shaped his journey, and the people and places that have influenced

LE BLANC FINE ART FOUNDRY & SCULPTURE GARDEN: CELEBRATING 50 YEARS IN 2025

Le Blanc Fine Art was founded by resident artists Lloyd LeBlanc and his late partner Judith Holmes Drewry. Their home is situated in a manor house nestled in a small village with views over the beautiful Leicestershire countryside. The extensive sculpture garden was created to display their art in a natural environment while also celebrating the process of bronze casting. This year they celebrate its 50th anniversary. What began in 1975 has evolved starting out making jewellery to developing a working bronze foundry using the lost wax process. This is now over 50 years creating a stunning sculpture garden and gallery space, that provides a unique destination for art lovers, blending art, nature and craftsmanship.

APRIL SCULPTURE WORKSHOP

You can experience Le Blanc Fine Art on a sculpture workshop and when the gardens are open to visitors. The next workshop, which is suitable for beginner and advanced sculptors, is ‘Sculpt a Clay Portrait Head from a Life Model’ with Guest

him. From mental health to growing your own food, and from cooking to music, Adam will reflect on the many ways that gardens enrich our lives.

28 & 29

CHARITY FUNDRAISER

For Rutland: The Good & New Clothes Sale

The annual fund-raising clothes sale will be held at Rutland Hall Hotel near Oakham.

See our fashion shoot this month, which previews some of the clothes that will be on sale, and p37 for all the practical details.

29

LIVE MUSIC

Rutland Choral Society at Oakham School Chapel 7.45pm, £15 (free for under 16s) from wegottickets.com

The Choral Society’s Spring Concert will include pieces by Vivaldi, Haydn and Mozart and culminate in Schubert’s Mass in G. The choir will perform with a string quartet and organ. www.rutlandchoralsociety.org.uk

Tutor Tristan MacDougall. You will have the option to cast your work into a permanent medium of either bronze or plaster in the foundry.

BOOK NOW: Friday 11, Saturday 12 & Sunday 13 April, 10am–4pm; £450 incl. all equipment, materials, refreshments & lunches. For more information, please contact Faye Le Blanc on 01572 787503, faye@leblancfineart.com or visit leblancfineart.com

Barnack

creative of the month

‘I just love that it creates a warm, community-centred environment for local amateur musicians to come and play to an excellent standard’

Anja Smith

violinist, music teacher & leader of stamford chamber orchestra

Background: I started playing aged 6, inspired by my grandfather who played the violin. After studying Music at the University of Cardiff, I did a PGCE and have now been teaching for around 25 years. I teach the Suzuki method to aspiring violinists and violists in Stamford and the surrounding area, and I lead Stamford Chamber Orchestra (SCO), which I joined in March 2008. I also love playing in quartets and in concerts with my daughter.

What brought you to Stamford? My husband’s job and family connections. I fell in love with it – it’s just so beautiful.

Favourite composer? I love the Romantics, especially Sibelius and Rachmaninov.

What’s your favourite part about teaching the Suzuki method? I love teaching Suzuki violin lessons. The method is completely inclusive – Suzuki believed that everyone had the potential to develop talent. I am very privileged to teach amazing students and to have such supportive families, who love learning and performing together.

Tell us a little about Stamford Chamber Orchestra: It’s a talented amateur orchestra with a fabulous reputation for high-quality performances. Mark Austin joined as Musical Director in 2019 and he has been inspiring and engaging Stamford audiences ever since.

What are the best bits about playing with a chamber orchestra? I just love that it creates a warm, community-centred environment for local amateur musicians to come and play to an excellent standard. We get to explore all sorts of interesting repertoire. We recently performed Haydn’s Farewell Symphony, during which all the players leave the stage in protest, with just two remaining at the end – it was such fun. We often play new commissions and have a composer in residence, George Brown, which is really exciting. Our conductor and Musical Director Mark is fantastic at talking to audiences about different works and bringing the music to life. It’s also an absolute joy to play in the beautiful setting of the Arts Centre with such lovely people and to share the music with our audiences.

And the challenges? The biggest challenge is funding. Ticket sales are not enough to cover the cost of concerts on their own, so we are reliant on orchestra subscriptions and the generosity of our wonderful Friends and sponsors to break even.

How can readers & local businesses help to support the orchestra? By coming to our concerts, of course, and, beyond that, they can become Friends of the orchestra (from £20 per year, up to as much as they’d like to contribute) or sponsor something specific – a soloist, our conductor, the score or even a whole concert. The orchestra is a charity, so tax can be reclaimed on donations through Gift Aid. All this means that we can continue to bring world-class performers to Stamford and keep live music alive here.

stamford chamber orchestra UPCOMING CONCERTS

A MUSICAL TALE OF MOZART saturday 22 march, 6–7pm barn hill methodist church

Haydn ‘Toy Symphony’ Mozart Symphony No.41 ‘Jupiter’ Sturt ‘A Musical Tale of Mozart’ (new commission)

Enjoy a magical journey through Mozart’s life, with a new work based on his most famous tunes. SCO is accompanied by its Children’s Choir and student players as they celebrate the Jupiter Symphony No.41, as well as Haydn’s Toy Symphony.

SEASON FINALE

saturday 21 june, 7.30pm stamford arts centre

Rossini Barber of Seville Overture Beethoven Violin Concerto (Charlotte Saluste-Bridoux) Schubert Symphony No.3

A Classic FM Rising Star, French violinist Charlotte Saluste-Bridoux returns to perform with SCO at Stamford Arts Centre for the summer concert. This wonderfully dynamic programme promises to be a fitting finale to the orchestra’s 2024–25 season.

tickets for both concerts are available from stamford arts centre box office on 01780 763203 & online from www.stamfordartscentre.com

find out more about sco: www.stamfordchamberorchestra.org @stamford_chamber_orchestra

Nevill Holt Festival

The Nevill Holt Festival is an annual arts and culture festival held in glorious Leicestershire countryside near Market Harborough, and this year it is running from 30 May to 22 June. Building on a decade of opera performances, the festival now includes opera, concerts, conversations, art exhibitions, family events, open gardens, comedy and more

photos: jono renton, robert workman & frankie parham

THE NEVILL HOLT FESTIVAL is set to return in 2025 with stand-out programme of music, literature, comedy, politics and food, all in the exquisite surroundings of Nevill Holt Estate, with its award-winning theatre and gardens. The festival’s programme includes opera, jazz, classical music, and various conversation strands covering politics, literature, arts and culture, food, sports and wellbeing. Additionally, the Festival will include comedy and specially curated events for family audiences. A new 300-seat Spiegeltent will be added to boost the variety of top-class acts making appearances.

James Hunt, Executive Chair of the Nevill Holt Festival, expressed delight at the diverse programme, saying: ‘There really is something for everyone, whatever your passion. So, if it’s Mozart, Gershwin or Duke Ellington, national treasures like Prue Leith, Jonathan Agnew or Richard E Grant, there’ll always be rays of sunshine in this corner of the East Midlands during June, whatever the weather.’

The music lineup celebrates the centenary of the Harlem Renaissance with a series titled ‘Harlem Nights: In the Spirit of Swing’. This includes ‘Musical Maestros and the Birth of Swing’, paying tribute to Duke Ellington’s residency at the Cotton Club and featuring a new arrangement of Gershwin’s ‘Rhapsody in Blue’. Other highlights include ‘Ladies of the Blues’, celebrating artists such as Bessie Smith and Billie Holiday, and ‘A Night In Harlem’ in the new Spiegeltent. The festival will also feature the Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Orchestra and the Martin Hayes Trio. Additional music events include performances by the Hackney Colliery Band and Opera North’s presentation of Mozart’s ‘Così Fan Tutte’.

The comedy lineup kicks off with Edinburgh Fringe Festival favorite Jason Byrne and the Underbelly’s Comedy Allstars. ‘In conversation’ this year will be names including Richard E Grant, Prue Leith, Pam Ayres, and cricketing legends Jonathan Agnew and Phil Tufnell. The festival will also host a live episode of The Country House Podcast and an event by bestselling author Harriet Muncaster.

For families, there will be The Showstoppers’ Kids Show, ‘Madame Chandelier’s Opera Party for Kids’, Lemon Jelly’s end-of-year showcase ‘Around the World in 80 Songs’ and a special ‘Comedy Club 4 Kids’. There will also be a range of delicious food and drink options, plus you can enjoy the beautiful grounds, dotted with an incredible collection of art, and the spectacular views over the valleys below. From 12–15 June, the gardens will also be open as part of the National Garden Scheme (see ngs.org.uk for more details).

NEVILL HOLT ESTATE, NEAR MARKET HARBOROUGH LE16 8EG

CONTACT: 01858 437451 | INFO@NEVILLHOLTFESTIVAL.COM

NEVILLHOLTFESTIVAL.COM | @NEVILLHOLTFESTIVAL

The Festival line up this year includes music from Ladies of the Blues and ‘in conversations’ with big names including Prue Leith and Richard E Grant, plus much more.

‘There’ll always be rays of sunshine in this corner of the East Midlands during June, whatever the weather’

Fashionable Fundraising FOR RUTLAND

elizabeth wears black jumpsuit by emilia wickstead with necklace by butler & wilson.

FASHIONABLE FUNDRAISING FOR RUTLAND

WE ARE COUNTING DOWN the days until this year’s Good & New Clothes Sale, organised by the formidable team at For Rutland, a fundraising group for Citizens Advice Rutland. Funds raised by For Rutland pay for specialist advisers at Citizens Advice Rutland who provide free, confidential, non-medical advice to people of all ages living with long-term health conditions in Rutland and the surrounding area. Since June 2014 these advisers have helped local

people in need to access over £10 million in grants, debt write-offs and benefit funding.

We are delighted to bring you a sneak peek of some of the items that will be up for grabs at the sale, including new and pre-loved fashions, and labels from Alice Temperley to Zara. We haven’t included prices, as these are not yet available. This year’s events take place on Friday 28 and Saturday 29 March at Rutland Hall Hotel near Oakham. See p37 for information on the venue, times and how to buy tickets.

right:

by

&

by

from a selection and tan boots by fairfax & favor. martin wears navy coat by aquascutum with red trousers by polo by ralph lauren, shirt by schöffel and shoes by barker. elizabeth wears yellow united colors of benetton coat wth black dress by maxmara. ian wears jacket by barbour, red & white checked shirt by aquascutum, maroon sweater by wolsey, silk tie by burberry and shoes by corniche by trickers. lottie wears burberry trench with own jeans and orange handbag from a range.

above, left to

carolyn wears tan coat

jaime mascaró with green top

skirt

mango, scarf

below: ian wears jacket, waistcoat & shirt by gurteen, with tie by harvie & hudson of jermyn street, trousers by lands’ end and barker shoes.

below: elizabeth (left) wears dress by rebecca minkoff. carolyn (centre) wears dress by escada. lottie (right) wears gaia dress and dune sandals.

below: caroyln wears red blumarine dress with boots by asos and pearl necklace from the duchess of windsor collection at harrods.

below: martin wears navy coat by savoy taylors guild with trousers by gant and shirt by charles tyrwhitt. elizabeth wears oscar de la renta dress.

FASHIONABLE FUNDRAISING FOR RUTLAND

below: elizabeth (left) wears green dress with jewelled shoulder detail by damsel in a dress, with strappy gold heels by camilla skovgaard; her bag is by bottega veneta. lottie (right) wears green dress by marella with pink heels by ghazal.

An extensive space in this family home allowed Spaces by Design to create a ‘heart of the home’ kitchen in Bainton with panoramic views down the never-ending garden

The Brief

It’s always nice to have a blank canvas before starting a project, and this house was a self-build with no definitive kitchen design.

The brief was for a modern design including a large island with seating oriented to drink in the view down the long rambling garden. The customer also wanted to incorporate the adjoining utility and boiler room seamlessly into the kitchen design.

The Concept

As the clients had a young family, a practical finish was proposed without compromising on style. Super Matt Navy Blue was used for the doors with Brushed Brass handle-less grip grooves to add some highlights.

The large circular Elm breakfast bar was to sit off-centre to the end of the island allowing sociable seating with a view.

Our Home Design Studio can provide 2D, 3D and 4D Virtual Reality visualisations

The Visualisation

As this house was still under construction, being able to explore the kitchen through virtual reality, allowed the client to make decisions on the placement of the services and move a couple of internal doors. All much easier and less costly in the early stages before the space was completed.

The Outcome

This kitchen demonstrates that you can use darker colours and still make a space feel bright. The polished Calacatta Gold worktops and large format floor tiles help bounce light around the room. The circular breakfast bar from Spekva cantilevered from the waterfall end of the island is stunning and perfectly positioned for sociability, garden views and homework, sorry kids!

01780 481850

stepinside@spacesbydesign.co.uk

22-23 Scotgate, Stamford, PE9 2YQ www.spacesbydesign.co.uk

FASHIONABLE FUNDRAISING FOR RUTLAND

above: elizabeth wears full-length wrap dress by roberto cavalli.

below, left to right: martin wears suit by gieves & hawkes with shirt by taylor & wright. elizabeth’s dress and bag, both as before. carolyn wears black top with gold skirt by alberta ferretti. lottie wears dress as before with black bag by jayley. ian wears smoking jacket by turnbull & asser, with dress shirt by m&s.

above: carolyn wears pink top by john richmond with sparkly sheer trousers by h&m.

THE GOOD & NEW CLOTHES SALE 2025

THE VENUE

Rutland Hall Hotel, Nr Oakham, Rutland LE15 8AB (rutlandhall.co.uk, rutlandhallhotel)

DATES & ENTRANCE PRICES

• Friday 28 March, 5–8pm: Entrance to the First Night Sale is by advance ticket only. These cost £25 per person and include a glass of Champagne and canapés kindly donated by Hambleton Hall. Visit the website to apply for tickets or email info@forrutland.org.uk

• Saturday 29 March, 8.30am–1pm: The Good & New Clothes Sale continues, with most items marked down to half price; the entry fee on the door on the Saturday is £5.

DONATE

If you’re clearing out your wardrobes and have some good, clean, pre-loved clothes that you would like to donate, For Rutland would be delighted to have them. You can drop off pre-loved clothes or accessories year round at the following places: Cavells (Mill Street, Oakham), John Porter Dry Cleaning (Market Street, Oakham), The Falcon Hotel (High Street, Uppingham) or All Saints Hairdressing (The George Mews, Stamford). You can also contact info@forrutland.org.uk to arrange a drop off or collection.

VOLUNTEER

For Rutland is always looking for volunteers, especially with The Good & New Clothes Sale. Anyone interested in joining this wonderful group, please email info@forrutland.org.uk.

FOLLOW & FIND OUT MORE

Find out more about For Rutland via their website and social media. Scan this QR code to go straight to their website.

www.forrutland.org.uk | @goodandnewclothessale

THANKS

• Firstly, big thanks to talented photographer Elli Dean ( ellideanphotography, ellideanphotography.co.uk) and stylist Sally Stillingfleet, for creating this feature.

• Thank you, too, to Rebecca Chantrell ( @rebeccachantrellmakeup, makeupbybecca.co.uk), who kindly did the makeup on the shoot (see p84 for a behindthe-scenes look at the day with her).

• Thank you to Rutland Hall Hotel for their generous permission to use the hotel for the shoot. We were all made to feel thoroughly welcome and had a fabulous time throughout. What a location!

• Huge thanks to all our wonderful models –Carolyn Airey, Ian Balmer, Lottie Crooke, Elizabeth MacDuff and Martin MacDuff –who so generously gave their time for this shoot and to promote For Rutland’s sale. They all look incredible.

• Finally, a heartfelt thank you to the phenomenal team at For Rutland – a true force for good in our region. Thank you to Trish Ruddle, Carolyn Airey and Alison Taylor, who were there on the day of the shoot and were an absolute delight to work with.

above: lottie wears gold jacket by diane von furstenberg with black dress by nicole farhi.

above: elizabeth wears hat by rebecca couture and emilia wickstead jumpsuit as before.

As individual as you A local home improvement company managing contemporary and traditional bespoke projects from concept to completion for over 35 years. All trades covered such as plumbing, heating, tiling, and electrics – creating beautiful bespoke bathrooms, wet rooms, kitchens and bedrooms.

Lumison Lighting Design Solutions

Amander Meade chats with Lumison Lighting’s Pippa & James

Morrison, whose beautiful showroom is on the corner of South Street & Mill Street in Oakham

WITH a recently refurbished showroom on the corner of Oakham’s Mill Street, James and Pippa Morrison offer lighting design solutions and energy-efficient lighting for every home. For expert advice on planning or installing lighting, Lumison is your one-stop destination.

Decorative & Practical

James and Pippa have some exciting developments to announce this spring, from the revamped Lumison showroom to the launch of their own, brand new lighting range. The showroom has been refurbished and the space reconfigured to make browsing even easier and to show off more examples of the stunning lighting ranges on sale. There is also a new section where James demonstrates how specialist architectural lighting can be fitted into shelving, alcoves, stairways and ceilings to create atmosphere and highlight the best features in your home.

In the showroom you’ll find wall lighting, table and floor lamps, pendants and exterior lights as well as shades, switches and lighting accessories. ‘We have several brand new ranges on sale now from the most innovative British and European suppliers with some of our best sellers being made very locally to Rutland,’ explains James. ‘Every single product we stock has been personally selected on the basis of quality and longevity, so we can ensure that our customers are not only offered superior products but excellent value for money every time. Our machineblown glass pendants are particularly beautiful and come in five different finishes from plain to ribbed, and they can be used at different heights, alone or in groups to great effect.’

‘Electicians Love Them’

With many years’ technical experience in lighting design, manufacture and installation and a self-confessed ‘obsessive’ when it comes to product quality, James has designed his own range of wall lighting that is exclusive to Lumison, manufactured in the UK and which he plans to expand this year. ‘I felt there was a gap in the market for traditional wall lights with a contemporary edge. The Lumison range comes with brass fittings in either a bronze or antiqued finish with a standard ivory or natural linen shade, so will fit seamlessly into any room scheme or interior setting. Other shades in different colourways and patterns are available to order. James has brought all of his industry experience into play with the timeless design and the clever inclusion of an easily fitted back box, which can be either surface mounted or recessed. ‘Most lighting designers are not electricians, and I noticed that so many products look great but have not been manufactured with ease of fitting in mind. Our backboxes mean that our lights can be fitted easily without the need for redecoration or repainting. Alternatively, the box can be recessed into the wall. This gives the customer so much more flexibility, and electricians love them.’

For expert advice on stylish lighting, inspirational design schemes, commercial projects or to arrange a site visit, head to the friendly, welcoming showroom on the corner of Oakham’s South and Mill streets.

lumison lighting, 1 south street, oakham le15 6bg | 01572 724600 www.lumisonlighting.com @lumison_lighting

J&S Interiors

Nicholas Rudd-Jones caught up with Sean Webster at J&S Interiors in Peterborough to look at the range of Luxaflex awnings that are becoming an increasingly popular customer choice

WE met in the impressive J&S Interiors showroom in Hampton, full of ideas and very well laid out – a visit there will inspire you. Window products include custom-made curtains; blinds including Venetian, vertical, roller, wood slat, pleated, conservatory and perfect fit; S-Craft shutters including full height, cafe, bay and tier on tier; and Luxaflex awnings.

Patio Awnings

Patio awnings have become very popular in recent years, allowing you to be absolutely sure that your outside space can be used for entertainment at any time, be it very hot or damp, or at nighttime. At the showroom, you can view a couple of display units, both of which unfurl automatically, whilst one has the addition of LED lights that make it perfect for later evening entertaining too.

You can select the exact size of awning you want, and also choose from a colour book of over 100 colours. Then there are options around lighting, a valance at the front to provide added sun protection, or heaters attached to the wall.

The whole cycle from ordering to completion will take about 4 weeks. J&S Interiors will come out to your home to measure up and assess how the awning will be fastened securely and robustly to an outer wall. From this point on, you can rest assured that everything is in safe and experienced hands.

The blinds are manufactured by Luxaflex, the leading player in the industry. J&S Interiors has worked with them for over 20 years, so there is a very strong partnership in place that will ensure you get the best service. There is a 5-year warranty that very few other manufacturers offer.

It is worth noting that awnings work well alongside individual window screens, which reduce glare, lower temperatures and provide added privacy.

All in all, this is a fabulous way of giving your home that ‘Mediterranean holiday’ feeling in the summer months without having to travel anywhere!

j&sinteriors 30 phorpres close, hampton, peterborough pe7 8fz 01733 558864 www.jandsinteriors.uk.com

WHY A LUXAFLEX AWNING?

Here are some of the key benefits of adding a Luxaflex awning to your property.

1 Heat Control

By blocking the sun’s rays, a Luxaflex awning can reduce the amount of heat entering your home, keeping the house cooler during our increasingly hot summers.

2 Increased Comfort

By providing shade and shelter, a Luxaflex awning can create a more comfortable outdoor environment, even on hot summer days.

3 UV Protection

Awnings can protect against harmful UV rays, helping to prevent skin damage and keeping your furniture, carpets and blinds from fading.

4

Increased Longevity

A Luxaflex awning can protect your windows and doors from weather damage, prolonging their lifespan and reducing the need for costly repairs.

5 Aesthetics

The Luxaflex awning collection is available in a variety of styles, colours and materials, so you can choose a perfect solution that complements the look of your home.

6

Enhanced Privacy

As well as shade, awnings can provide privacy, while still allowing you to enjoy the beauty of the outdoors.

Creating bespoke Kitchens, Studies, and Fine Furniture for over 30 years. Stamford,

Lincolnshire.

Natural Structures

From its base in rural Leicestershire, design and construction company Natural Structures has been creating beautiful buildings in sustainable materials for over two decades. Amander Meade met Peter Voight, a Natural Structures customer whose dream of improving his dusty garage resulted in a bespoke oak building that exceeded all expectations

photography: elli dean

AT WELL OVER 6 feet tall, motor enthusiast Peter found the ceiling of his former garage just too low for him to work on his cars efficiently. An initial consultation with Natural Structures was arranged to see if a new oak-framed garage was feasible. A site visit by founder and owner Simon Lewington revealed that an area of ‘dead space’ in the grounds of Peter’s home would make the perfect location. ‘There was just a compost heap and a dilapidated pergola here

before,’ explains Peter. ‘I don’t mind admitting that creative vision is not one of my strengths, but, luckily, Simon’s remarkable skill in this area made the whole planning process thoroughly enjoyable from our first meeting right through to completion.’

Before committing, Peter received quotations from other companies for the work but was happy to commission Natural Structures due to his confidence in the team. ‘Having that confidence was vital to me,’ he adds. ‘Other companies could

The stunning bespoke-built oak-framed, glass-fronted building combines garage space with a living/work area, kitchen and cloakroom.

have matched or even slightly improved on the price quoted by Simon, but no one else I spoke to could match his creative ability or experience.’

‘The Natural Structures crew are specialists, whether adding a car port, porch garage or office, or constructing a family home from scratch’

As the pair collaborated, Peter’s initial idea combined with Simon’s resourcefulness resulted in a plan for a new oak-framed, glass-fronted garage with an additional room that would not exceed the budget but would enhance the whole project enormously. As work began, Peter found the construction team to be highly skilled, efficient, respectful of their surroundings, clean and tidy. ‘I could not have been happier with the way they operated,’ he reports.

As the roof faces south, solar panels were added to generate enough energy to run the main house in spring and summer,

which was an additional advantage. As the building developed, adaptations were incorporated into the build. ‘Originally, there was a more basic fit for the garage, but I decided to raise the specification for a better-quality finish and I’m very glad I did. The team were incredibly flexible around accommodating new ideas as we progressed.’

Versatile Space

Affectionately described by Peter as ‘the shed’, the finished building not only incorporates garaging for several cars but adjacently an additional multifunctional room that Peter uses daily as an office, study, meeting room and garden room. Simon planned and project managed the whole build, including the installation of flooring, cabinetry and electrics, and all trades to final fit. ‘It’s such a versatile space that has enhanced my lifestyle enormously. I’m drawn here every single day,’ reports Peter. ‘With all Simon’s ingenious suggestions incorporated into the construction, it’s an absolute pleasure to come and work in here. For example, in the garage we were going to fit standard strip lighting, but Simon felt it would look harsh and too stark – standing out and detracting from the high quality of the finish throughout. He designed

‘It’s such a versatile space that has enhanced my lifestyle enormously’

bespoke light fittings in oak to hold the lights; these look smart and match the overall aesthetic.’

The completed office space serves as a comfortable and relaxed meeting room when Peter needs to host colleagues and clients, with a fitted kitchen and separate cloakroom making it autonomous from the main house. ‘Beyond working hours, the room becomes a comfortable sanctuary with a clubhouse feeling. My wife and I can sit here in the evenings and relax and unwind with a glass of wine by the log burner. It offers us a different perspective on the garden, too. Having this new room has transformed the way we use the rest of the property and created more awareness of the potential of the outside space. I absolutely love it.’

About Natural Structures

A lifelong passion for design led Simon into a construction career, and his passion for oak-framed buildings has provided the inspiration behind his company. The Natural Structures crew are specialists, whether adding a car port, porch, garage or office, or constructing a family home from scratch. The team are all employed rather than being freelance or contracted and most have been with Natural Structures for over 15 years.

‘Like me,’ he explains, ‘my team get excited by each and every new project, as our satisfaction not only comes from a job well done but from the potential of the germ of an idea being maximised. Many of our clients are choosing to improve or extend their existing home rather than go to the expense of

moving, and they are usually amazed at what can be done with space they had never really acknowledged.’

The level of involvement the team offers is entirely individual to each project. Natural Structures can take care of everything from an initial design, planning and construction through to finishing interior touches. They will also act as the contractor to bring an existing plan to life. Veterans of steering projects through the planning process, listed building or conservation area regulations can also be successfully navigated. ‘What sets us apart from others is our unique practical capability and our impeccable levels of customer service which aim to ensure each client enjoys the process and doesn’t fear it as something to be endured.’

Last word goes to Peter, who does not hesitate to recommend Natural Structures to anyone thinking of improving or extending their home. ‘I’m more than satisfied with the results and never thought I would enjoy the process of creating a building, but I relished being involved in the planning, guided by Simon, and found the whole development immensely satisfying. The team was exemplary throughout, and I am looking forward to working with them again in the future.’

natural structures the manor, main street, tur langton le8 0pj 07970 557992 • 01858 545518

www.natural-structures.co.uk

Osprey Property

Nicholas Rudd-Jones visited Osprey Property, a local, independent company that offers a complete property solution from sales to lettings and investments

IMET WITH GRAHAM FREEMAN, Managing Director, in the Oakham office, and the first thing that struck me was the level of energy throughout the building. Graham told me that in many ways it is just this impression that makes Osprey different. It is an independent business with strong local market knowledge, where decisions can be made quickly, where people really know the local market inside out, but with sufficient scale that every service can be provided and the latest regulations and opportunities fully met.

Key points of difference are: they can move at speed; they will always protect the client; and they are always easy to get hold of. This philosophy arose from the fact that the business was originally built by landlords for landlords, and that the leadership team therefore really understands the dynamics of the market and what customer service is all about.

Osprey has offices in Oakham, Melton Mowbray, Stamford and Oundle; and a team of around 30 staff altogether, offering a complete property solution across sales, lettings, mortgages and investments.

Lettings

Osprey applies exactly the same standard to lettings as to sales – they undertake professional photography to ensure that their properties look their best, and draw up floor plans, etc, so prospective tenants can work out where they might put each piece of furniture, where their double bed might fit, etc.

As lettings specialists with an exceptionally strong market hold in the four market towns where they have offices, Osprey has a fabulous choice for tenants and a scale that allows the infrastructure support to be strongly resourced and always bang up to date with the latest regulations.

Investment

Through their investment division, Osprey Property Investments, Osprey has a demonstrable and strong track record in the successful identification, negotiation, purchase and management of residential investment properties in the East Midlands. Graham told me: ‘Given our experience as both landlords and property management

agents, we are uniquely positioned to assist investors in purchasing investment properties throughout the UK, but especially in the East Midlands and East of England. Our focus on the purchase side of real estate transactions has given us an outstanding ability to identify the very best opportunities and negotiate their purchase on behalf of our clients. Both secondary and new-build properties are sourced from on and off the open market, and we can advise you on the most suitable investment opportunities and how to avoid the potential pitfalls.’ The East Midlands market represents a very solid base for any stable investment portfolio, but properties can also be added from anywhere in the country along the yield/capital play spectrum. Everything is then managed from one central point.

Property Sales

Osprey has an outstanding marketing reach through their offices and has a sales team in every office, with detailed knowledge of each local market. The spread of offices means that properties can be marketed effectively across a larger region, potentially quadrupling the pool of potential purchasers. Graham told me: ‘All of our branches are run by local, experienced people. They understand how to help guide our clients through the selling process and relieve the stress. They will handle all aspects of the sale of your home and be a local, reliable sounding board throughout the entire process.’

Osprey Property provides an invaluable service, whether you are a first-time buyer, a seller, a home mover, a professional landlord or a first-time landlord.

GET IN TOUCH AT ANY OF THE OFFICES IN THE REGION:

• 4 burley rd, oakham le15 6dh, 01572 756675

• 7 red lion st, stamford pe9 1pa, 01780 769269

• 8a burton st, melton mowbray le13 1ae, 01664 778170

• 6 crown court, market pl, oundle pe8 4bq, 01832 272225

www.osprey-property.co.uk | @ospreyproperty www.ospreypropertyinvestments.co.uk

Family

owned destination garden centres set in rural Leicestershire

Experience the elegant outdoors at Gates. Be inspired by our range of exquisite furniture, state-of-the-art barbecues, and captivating water features. Our collection will transform your garden into a sophisticated outdoor retreat. Visit us at Oakham and Hinckley and let your dream garden come to life.

GATES OAKHAM COLD OVERTON, OAKHAM LE15 7QB

GATES WOODLANDS HINCKLEY STAPLETON, HINCKLEY LE9 8JE

outdoor living with

Gates Garden Centre

Get ready for warmer days with Gates Garden Centre near Oakham. March is the perfect time to start prepping your outdoor space and creating your ideal summer garden. We take a look at Gates’ stylish and exclusive new range of outdoor furniture, Orchard Life, plus five fabulous recommendations from their expert team, from outdoor dining and games tables to the latest pizza ovens

Orchard Life: New for 2025

New for 2025 is Gates’ exclusive range of outdoor furniture, Orchard Life, including the Mulberry (top), Morello (left) and Braeburn (above) sets shown here. Hand-woven for the best finish, Orchard Life uses premium resin rattan and outdoor Olefin fabrics that are durable – perfect for British gardens. The materials used to make the collection have been thoroughly tested for UV and weather resistance. Each item comes with strong rust-resistant aluminium frames and, for added peace of mind, a reassuring 3-year structural warranty and 12-month cushion warranty. Comfortable, well made and affordable, the range is a very exciting addition to the outdoor living offering at Gates.

1

Stretch out in style with the Eden sun lounger (above) by Hartman, known for making comfortable, stylish and reliable all-weather garden furniture. Its Weatherready® cushions mean you can leave it out, come rain or shine – perfect for the (unpredictable) great British climate!

3 The stunning Bramblecrest Chedworth Triple Cocoon Chair (near right) has plenty of room for three people – if you can bear to share, that is!

4

Enjoy all the benefits of real wood without the maintenance with the Bramblecrest Monterey Sandstone Vogue Set with eight deluxe Vogue armchairs and a rectangular wood-look dining table (far right). A beautiful, practical addition to any outdoor space.

5 Making pizza at home might seem complicated, but Gozney’s home pizza ovens make it easy for everyone. Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned chef, your Gozney will enable you to craft delicious, restaurant-quality pizza at home. The award-winning Dome S1 Pizza Oven (below) is streamlined and propane gas-fuelled. Gozney – it’s woodfired cooking reinvented.

2

‘Gozney – it’s wood-fired cooking reinvented’

gates garden centre, somerby road, cold overton, oakham le 15 7qb 01664 454309 | www.gatesgardencentre.co.uk | @gatesgardencentre

Create a focal point centrepiece for your garden with this fabulous Crucible garden set (above) – a multi-use outdoor activity table that can be used for pool, table tennis or dining, and makes time together outside more fun.

With over 25 years of experience in the electrical trade, we specialise in all aspects of electrical services. From electrical installations, renewable energy, electric car charging to electrical fault finding, we have your electrical needs covered.

• We are NICEIC approved electricians and a member of the renewable energy consumer code. From a simple roof solar panel installation to a full battery storage system, we can guide, supply and install for you.

• Ordered your new ev vehicle? Company car charging? Public charging requirements? Contact us for a full design and consultation for your ev charging needs. We work with all the leading manufactures, so be sure we will find the one that meets your requirements.

For more information about our services, speak to a friendly member of our team.

The Fast & the Floriferous

Discover what to grow this year for incredible impact in a short amount of time with our regular columnist and BBC Gardeners’ World presenter Nick Bailey

Nick Bailey

Based in our region, Nick Bailey is an award-winning garden designer and plantsman with over 30 years’ experience creating and managing gardens on four continents. His company, Nota Bene Horticulture, provides garden design, consultancy and management services across the UK from tiny courtyards to large estates. Find out more at nickbailey365.com

ALTHOUGH you might have seen me wafting around talking about plants on television, I spend most of my time designing gardens. I take on commissions large and small across the country, from compact town gardens and courtyards to suburban plots and estates. My clients are all very different people with a range of world views, but nearly every one of them has something in common: they’d all like their garden to be established yesterday! Now, I can’t work that sort of miracle, but I do have certain plants I use time and again for their sheer breakneck speed of establishment. Every plant I’m about to mention goes from seed or shoot to over 2 metres tall between March and August – which, incidentally, equates to around 1cm a day. They’re fast, floriferous and are all easy to grow. So here are my top nine speedy specimens that you can grow from seed or from a 2-litre containerised plant this year.

FROM SEED

Commonly known as the castor oil plant Ricinus communis [1] is a tropical species with huge palmate leaves in reds, burgundy or green. It’s great for creating a tropical feel or foliage contrast in a mixed border. Sow it this month in a propagator for a 2-metre plant come summer. (Ricinus, like many plants, is poisonous, so best avoided if you have young children.)

Equally tropical looking is Tithonia rotundifolia [2]. This annual has fuzzy-felt leaves and the most impactful orange flowers I know. They feel somewhere between a cosmos and a dahlia. At up to 2 metres tall in just three months, they work well at the back of sunny borders or as the central specimen in a large display pot. And why not save money next year by collecting this year’s seed? It’s a wild species, so its seed will come true. Simply collect the dried seed heads in late summer, allow to fully dry in a glasshouse or windowsill, then store in a sealed container in the fridge ready for sowing next year.

Another lofty lovely that is worth collecting the seeds of each year is Nicotiana sylvestris [3]. Growing from a 1mm seed to a 2-metre plant in 3 months is impressive, but add to that the fact that this annual has huge, strongly night-scented flowers and you are on to a winner. Grow it in dappled shade, where the flowers can shine.

If you really want to impress, then try growing Leonotis leonurus [4] from South Africa. Again, it makes it to 2 metres at speed, but truly wows with its whorls of furry orange flowers that encircle the willowy flower stems.

And if you are not looking for something that exotic, try Zea mays japonica ‘Quadricolour’ [5]. This sweetcorn with attitude has pink, white and green leaves on stocky, fulsome plants and makes a brilliant temporary hedge or backdrop to other plantings.

POTTED PLANTS (2–3L)

Easier still than seeds are those plants you can buy and install this month ahead of their 2-metre growth spurt in summer. Perhaps the easiest win of all these plants is Impatiens tinctoria [6]. Unlike bedding plant busy lizzies, it forms a bulky dome some 2 x 2 metres, which drips with white blooms that look like butterflies from mid-summer till the frosts. Mulched over in winter, it will triumphantly return each summer.

Another speed-freak that can be treated in the same way is Dahlia imperialis [7]. This plant is the poster child of speedy species. It can easily go from ground level to 4 metres in just 3 months! Its foliage is bold, dramatic and quirky due to its leaf axils looking like canoes. Ideal for the back of a border, it might just flower for you if we don’t get October frosts, but this plant is really all about the foliage.

Finally, why not try some fast-growing shrubs? Anisodontea ‘El Rayo’ [8] is a relative of lavatera and carries inverted cone-shaped flowers in deep pink with a burgundy blotch. It will reach 2 metres in its first year and 3 metres in its second, all while flowering non stop (even in January). Also in the same plant family is the delicate white-flowered Kitaibela vitifolia [9]. This undergrown plant bulks up so fast, I used it as a temporary boundary screen last year. It has leaves reminiscent of a grape vine and hibiscus-style blooms, but is 100% hardy.

‘Every plant I’m about to mention goes from seed or shoot to over 2 metres tall between March and August – which, incidentally, equates to around 1cm a day’

Commercial / Domestic / Difficult Access

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

Flat Roofs / Glass Roofs / Slating & Tiling / Maintenance Contracts

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

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

Hi Claudia hopefully this will all work for the small advert the magazine

Obviously your art person may rejig things, our colours additional info if it can be added to the list under

Grp fibreglass roof contractors, estate agent maintenance

We are Also celebrating 40yrs of trade if your art person something nice for the advert

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Tel/Fax:

Email: info@stamfordroofing.co.uk

We are also on Facebook so that logo will need Looking through your latest edition I like the layout and hunter Steven limited advert and the wright feet Craig

Heritage blue slating

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Architectural

Mike Goldmark of Goldmark Gallery, Uppingham

Nicholas & Clare Rudd-Jones met with Mike Goldmark, founder of Goldmark Gallery in Uppingham, where the business began over half a century ago

WE SETTLED into an exquisite corner of the gallery for our chat, adorned with John Piper originals and prints, perched on tiny chairs and stools that rather reminded us of a children’s nursery. The influence of the Japanese aesthetic resonates too. Nothing is conventional or quite what you would expect at the Goldmark Gallery. We learnt throughout Mike’s life story that he is a one-off, who likes to do things differently.

Mike, take us back your earliest years

My parents were Jewish evacuees from Vienna in World War II, coming to England in 1940, and I was born in 1944. My father was interned for a time on the Isle of Man but subsequently recruited to British Intelligence, as he spoke half a dozen languages.

My parents only spoke German at home until I was seven, but I always replied in English, as I couldn’t speak German. And each week I went to the Jewish Sunday School, where I learnt Hebrew, which is written from right to left. So, life could be a little confusing. We were usually short of money, and I strongly remember how my mother would skip meals so that the rest of us could eat.

At the age of 10, I won a scholarship to nearby St Alban’s School. Although there were many aspects of it I enjoyed [Mike was captain of various sports, and Deputy Head Boy], I was dyslexic and did not fit in at all with the traditional straitjacket approach to learning. I got decidedly mixed academic results, and university was never on the cards. Instead, I went down to London and started out in a series of retail jobs. I started with Sainsbury’s, but, as one who always speaks my mind, I left soon after I questioned the family nepotism. I then spent three years at Marks and Spencer.

I am not a person who is idle for long, however. One day, I went along to the offices of fashion designer John Michael and waited in reception until he was leaving. I asked him if I could work for him, and my direct approach paid off because he gave me a job on the spot. I thrived here for several years, starting out in stock control. I became John Michael’s PA within eight weeks and shortly after became General Manager.

The next

on Sunday 9 March at 7.30pm (doors open at 7pm), and tickets are limited, so book now.

And then you set up your own business?

With a fair amount of retail experience under my belt, and a strong desire to be a #1, yes, I decided to set up my own business. I launched a tie business and re-invented the kipper tie. And I can perhaps lay claim to be the inventor of the floral tie. My business grew rapidly until the energy crisis of the early 1970s, when everything came tumbling down – demand plummeted, interest rates went through the roof, and I was left with significant personal debt and no business.

So, where did you go next?

With a young family, I decided it was time to get out of London and start afresh. But where and what? The ‘where’ was easy because I wanted to be close to a dear friend, John Tasker, an antiques dealer in Market Harborough. The ‘what’ was double glazing, as I worked out this was the best way to make money quickly. I always knew how to sell! We settled in Rutland in 1972 and have been here ever since. So, the ‘where’ was fixed. But the ‘what’ changed, as my heart wasn’t set on double glazing for ever – it was just a useful vehicle to level my finances. I had always been into old books and had become friendly with the owner of Old Constable Books, which was opposite Baines Bakery in Uppingham. He told me one day that he was going to have to close the shop with immediate effect and that he needed this specific amount to keep the business open. Remarkly, I just so happened to have exactly the amount in my pocket that he needed – I had been on my way to the bank to pay it in at the time, but offered it to him instead. In return, he gave me half the business. Simple as that. There were no contracts or anything formal. I soon became the sole owner of the bookshop, as the old owner decided to move on, and I absolutely thrived on it. I wasn’t just dealing with old and rare books – I also did a deal with Chatto & Windus for all their ‘seconds’, which I could then sell on at a fraction of the full price.

Some people must have wondered at the time why I chose to go from the lucrative world of double glazing to the much more uncertain world of second-hand books, but I have never, ever been focused on maximising my income. I have always wanted to do something that I enjoyed. That philosophy hasn’t changed to this day.

You championed Uppingham’s high street. Tell us about that. I was also keen to support Uppingham, which went through a tough phase when the A47 bypass opened in 1982, and trade dried up, meaning a drop in local jobs. One especially sleepless night, I wandered around the town and identified some 13 under-utilised buildings. Over the next few days I visited all the owners and told

Goldmark Front Room event is an intimate concert with Alice Zawadzki (voice & violin), Fred Thomas (piano & percussion) and Misha Mullov-Abbado (double bass). It’s

them if they were ever interested in selling, I would like to buy. I had no money, but it was a time when the banks were still helpful. During the next six years, I bought 12 of those buildings, started a small building company, and undertook conversions, adding some 20 more shops, which I let to antiques dealers, second-hand book sellers and the like in an effort to revitalise the town’s trade.

How did the connection with Iain Sinclair come about?

Iain Sinclair [now a famous author, creator of the psychogeography genre] used to come up from London once a month or so in search of old books, as he too was in the second-hand book trade at the time. He told me he wanted to become a writer but needed six months ‘off’ to write his first book. We managed to find a parcel of old books in the Channel Islands with quite some value, and he sold off the most valuable ones and managed to secure his six-month sabbatical. I told him I would publish his book if he couldn’t secure a publisher, and sure enough he came back the next year and told me the book was written but no publisher was forthcoming. So I agreed to be the publisher.

We decided to travel over to Verona and meet with one of the best printers in the world, Officina Bodoni, where all books were still printed to exacting standards on a traditional hand press. No doubt it could have been done a lot cheaper, but I am a perfectionist and like things to be the best they can be. The book, ‘White Chappell, Scarlet Tracings’, was a great success and a runner-up in the Literary Award of the Year that year. Iain has gone on to write myriad books since, for sale in every bookshop in the land.

How did the shift into art happen?

The move to art from second-hand books just came about little by little. Prints used to fall out of books, and I found myself selling them separately, and it just developed from there. I recall reading a book around this time by EF Schumacher called ‘Small Is Beautiful: A Study of Economics As If People Mattered’. It proposed ‘a more intelligent utilisation of the fruits of human ingenuity and effort’, which really got me thinking in terms of how to develop a business based around creative rather than economic urges. Another phrase that I remember from that time is ‘hasten slowly, the sooner to arrive’ – I have very much lived my life like that. When the internet arrived, however, it hit my personal approach to the second-hand book trade hard, and eventually I decided to concentrate solely on art. We don’t choose to look after many living artists, and I’m extraordinarily choosy – I’m not interested in how big their reputation is, simply in how great their work is. I’m especially interested in doing things that no one else would want to do and am entirely project-led rather than profit-led. Once we are settled with an artist at the gallery, we will do everything to support them. We fund all the marketing – the catalogue, invites, launch party, etc – and often make a supporting film [four of which have been nominated for awards by the Royal Television Society]. Recently, we have increasingly had events where the artist comes to talk about their work. [The next of these talks is with acclaimed potter Akiko Herai, on Saturday 22 March.]

Mike Goldmark of Goldmark Gallery

Key Moments

1944 Born in Welwyn Garden City.

1962 Leaves school and starts a career in retail.

1965 Sets up the kipper tie business.

1972 Moves to Uppingham.

1973 Buys into a second-hand bookshop. This represents the start of Goldmark.

1985 The first gallery wing is added.

1986 Manages to persuade Gary Kasparov to come to Uppingham to play chess.

1987 First art show at Goldmark is by Leicestershire-based artist Rigby Graham.

1987 Iain Sinclair’s ‘White Chappell, Scarlet Tracings’ is published by Goldmark.

1997 Dun’s epic poem ‘Vale Royal’ published, and the Albert Hall is hired to promote it. Amongst many luminaries, Allen Ginsberg, Benjamin Zephaniah and Paul McCartney are participants.

2005 Bookshop arm of the business closes.

2005 First ceramics exhibition held.

2019 Goldmark TV launches.

2023 50th anniversary of Goldmark.

2024 Goldmark TV awarded Filmmaker of the Year 2024 by Pro Moviemaker Magazine.

‘Another phrase that I remember from that time is “hasten slowly, the sooner to arrive” – I have very much lived my life like that’

THE SCHOOL PRINTS

Towards the end of World War II Brenda Rawnsley and her husband Derek had the idea of bringing contemporary art to young children who would otherwise not have had the opportunity to see ‘good’ work. Within a few years Brenda had set up School Prints Ltd to sell original lithographs to schools and had commissioned several of the most important living artists for her scheme.

The printing was undertaken by the Baynard Press from plates drawn by the artists, who were asked to use no more than six colours. The prints, being original lithographs, were often the first real art seen by young people of that period and are typical of their time. Goldmark Gallery has the full series, which includes ‘Harvesting’, dating to the 1940s, shown here, by John Nash.

And then came your expansion into pottery?

LEFT: work by Danish studio potter Anne-Mette Hjortshøj, who is exclusively represented by Goldmark. BELOW: Japanese studio potter Akiko Hirai, whose largest ceramics exhibition to date will open on Saturday 22 March. There is a ‘Meet the Maker’ event at 2pm on that day. For more details email info@goldmark.com or call 01572 821424.

As one door closed so another opened. We finally closed our bookshop in 2005, and that same year we held our first ceramics exhibition. It showcased the great Phil Rogers. Since then, Goldmark Gallery has set new standards for ceramics exhibitions. We have adopted a cadre of some of the most respected potters from around the world and provided them with the support and security to develop great work. [These include Lisa Hammond MBE, Akiko Herai, Kang-hyo Lee, Mike Dodd, Jean-Nicolas Gérard and Anne-Mette Hjortshøj].

Our potters typically work with a retainer up front, which gives them certainty and allows them to step back from time to time, to pause and think ‘what can I do differently’. We like to give them space, and in return they will sell their pots through us. Usually there is no formal contract; there is just an understanding between us. We always put the artist and their art first and foremost. So far that has worked very well for both parties.

Tell us about your love of music

Mike has always had a lifelong interest in music, and three of his children are notable musicians. Freya Goldmark is now an internationally renowned violinist, known perhaps best in this region as the founder of the Stamford International Music Festival that now takes place each May at Stamford Arts Centre. Jay Goldmark plays guitar, bass, percussion and drums in various local bands. And Reuben Goldmark is making his mark as a jazz pianist and composer.

The idea of bringing music to Goldmark Gallery [The Front Room concerts that take place on occasional Sunday evenings – the next one is an intimate jazz concert by Alice Zawadzki, Fred Thomas and Misha Mullov-Abbado on Sunday 9 March] originated on a trip to London. My wife and I decided to go down for a break, staying in the Hilton. I casually suggested it might be nice to go out and listen to some music, and so we went down to reception to ask them what was on. Now my wife is a cello player, and I had arranged for Alexander Baillie [internationally recognised as one of the finest cellists of his generation] to come over that night and play just to the two of us in a small room. He just happened to be waiting for us there in reception. We liked it so much, the quality of the playing and the intimacy of the setting, that we wanted to share it with others, and so the idea of the Front Room was born. Alexander came up to the Gallery and gave the launch concert, to a full house (around 60 people)! These more intimate concerts have been going strong ever since.

And aside from the business?

I have always had an appetite for knowledge, new experiences and enlightenment. In my early years in Uppingham, for nearly a decade in fact, I used to sit up all night reading, drinking coffee and smoking. I would go to bed at 6am, get up again at 8am and start the working day. I was reading all sorts: philosophy, Eastern religion… you name it. I have been through a stage where I followed Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, the creator of Transcendental Meditation; and I have spent time in a Buddhist monastery. For 40 years or so now I have practised Tai chi, and for several years I taught it around Uppingham free of charge, Today I do Chi gong (‘the mother’ of Tai chi), a Chinese practice that uses movement, breathing and meditation to improve health and wellbeing – that takes me 45 minutes first thing each morning. This has helped me enormously to stay well.

We closed by asking Mike his future plans for the business. ‘Well, let’s just put it this way, we have no plans to slow down. We will continue to be on the lookout for new adventures, pathways and talent – and, of course, continue to do things a bit differently.’

Goldmark Gallery, 14 Orange Street, Uppingham LE15 9SQ 01572 821424 | info@goldmark.com goldmarkart.com | @goldmarkart

Local Lowdown

When did you move to the area? 1972.

What do you most like about the region?

‘Multum in Parvo’ – the fact that the place is on a human scale

Favourite spot:

A tree overhanging the east side of Eyebrook Reservoir, where I used to give Tai chi lessons. Trees are an important source of energy.

Favourite pub/restaurant/cafe: I don’t go out to hostelries so often, as I’m a teetotaller. But I can be found on occasion admiring the cakes at Baines Bakery across the road, a local business that’s been around here for over 100 years.

Favourite activity: Now I don’t stay up all night reading (it was not good for my health), so perhaps a bit of TV to relax – I enjoyed The Traitors this January.

Favourite local cause: We like to support various local music endeavours, and make sure we spread out our effort.

Photography: Jay Goldmark

Travel Deeper, Feel More: Discover Bhutan

Helen Dooley , Director of More Travel in Stamford, describes her experiences in some uniquely rewarding destinations for you to consider in the mystical and magical Himalayan Kingdom of Bhutan

AS PART OF OUR 2025 VISION at More Travel, we’re shifting our focus to destinations that stretch us further, connect us more deeply and help us feel more; one such destination is Bhutan. Nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas, Bhutan is a tiny kingdom – roughly the size of Switzerland – brimming with unique features. It has a fascinating history and approach.

• Perhaps most surprisingly, Bhutan refuses to measure success in GDP. Instead, they use the Gross National Happiness (GNH) index, which values spiritual and wellbeing over material wealth.

• It is home to the world’s highest unclimbed mountain, which remains off-limits as it’s considered sacred, despite the many lucrative climbing opportunities.

• It has a beloved royal family, consisting of a young couple and their children.

Culture, Environment & Tourism

Though Bhutan is forward-thinking in education, medicine and science, it remains firmly anchored in its rich Buddhist culture, which dates back over a thousand years. The Bhutanese people share a profound spiritual connection to their environment, making their country one of the few carbon-negative nations in the world.

As a result, Bhutan is a land of stunning natural beauty – lush green valleys, majestic mountain peaks and dense forests.

So, how does tourism fit into Bhutan’s future? The Kingdom has crafted a unique approach to welcome visitors: Bhutan’s tourism

model emphasises high-value, low-impact travel, with a restricted number of permits issued each year. Visitors are expected to be curious, sensitive, sophisticated and respectful – appreciating authentic experiences while leaving a light footprint on both the culture and the environment.

The price point is high, and whilst there are a few independent options, most guests choose either the Six Senses or the Aman route. The two world-class hoteliers each offer 3- or 5-lodge itineraries that include transportation and experiences. Aman properties tend to be in the valley floor and offer a reassuringly familiar sense of identity at each lodge. Six Senses are typically at higher altitudes, offering extended views, and the architecture and the experience in each lodge is redefined slightly to reflect its location.

Bhutan typically appeals to intelligent explorers with a deep interest in spirituality and civilisation. For those seeking adventure, the country offers excellent hiking opportunities, including the show-stopping Tiger’s Nest monastery climb in Punakha, an experience that will remain etched in your memory forever. One experience we loved learning about during our research was the 108 Candle Ceremony. In this Buddhist ritual, participants light 108 candles as a spiritual offering, accompanied by prayers and mantras. The number 108 is sacred in Buddhism, symbolising the removal of obstacles and negative karma. This ceremony is performed to accumulate merit, seek blessings and promote peace and spiritual growth.

Bhutan is a place where spiritual growth and connection to nature thrive – a truly transformative destination that resonates deeply with our Travel Deeper, Feel More programme.

OPPOSITE: host in traditional dress at the Sixth Senses. ABOVE: the miraculously perched Tiger’s Nest. BELOW: butter lamps, so-called as they were traditionally fuelled by yak butter, are used as spiritual offerings in Tibetan Buddhist temples across the Himalayas.

read more about what you can see & do as part of a suggested itinerary to bhutan in more travel’s ‘feel more’ brochure.

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

photography: six senses bhutan

Allow me to introduce you to a new events business, Authors In Oundle, based in the beautiful market town of Oundle. Our first season, during the autumn months of 2024, consisted of 4 events, 3 of which were total sell-outs and all greatly enjoyed. This Spring season brings more local & world-renowned authors to Oundle. I am very excited about this new chapter in Oundle’s cultural journey, and I hope to see you at future events. Don’t hesitate to contact me at info@authorsinoundle.co.uk with your comments or suggestions. Helen Shair, Founder and Director

Upcoming events to delight, inform and entertain you; full details at www.authorsinoundle.co.uk authorsinoundle authorsinoundle

authorsinoundle

Her Honour Wendy Joseph KC; Rough Justice: Do we have the law we deserve?

24TH APRIL

Joanne Harris; Vianne: a sensational return to the world of CHOCOLAT, with the long-awaited and utterly irresistible story of Vianne Rocher. 25TH MAY

Tracy Chevalier; The Glassmaker: a rich, transporting story that follows a family of glassmakers over the course of 5 centuries.

30TH MAY

An evening with Sophie Hannah; Sophie will be talking about all her current projects. 18TH JUNE

Debbie Oakes & Her Flock

Debbie Oakes runs Snapdragon, a popular shop on Oakham’s Mill Street but when she’s not advising on the giftware, jewellery and clothing ranges she sells, she can be found tending to her small flock of five mixed breed sheep. Debbie tells Amander Meade how sheep have much more to offer than might at first be realised

ALIFELONG ANIMAL LOVER, Debbie also owns poultry, a Tibetan terrier puppy and two rescued donkeys. It was in 1992 that she first took on her first sheep – a group of Hebrideans. ‘I discovered that sheep and donkeys are symbiotic,’ she explains. ‘The two species are an excellent pairing for a number of reasons. As well as being excellent company for each other, if sheep and donkeys graze together, it helps control the worming cycle for the donkeys. As well as the appropriate use of worming treatments, sheep and donkeys sharing the same pasture can help reduce the number of worm larvae that could potentially infect them.’

Debbie’s first three sheep were useful for grazing her paddock, but she soon discovered there was much more to the average British sheep than first meets the eye. ‘Sheep are so much more intelligent than people realise, and they all have individual and very distinct personalities too.’

The Hebrideans were succeeded by some Jacobs, and there has been a constant stream ever since, acquired from private breeders in the case of the rare breeds. Debbie has also offered a home to three of her current flock when their owner decided to downsize. ‘Lily is the eldest and is 20 years old, which is very unusual, and she has had more lives than a cat. We thought we had lost her a couple of times, but she always bounces back. Umbro, Baby, Phoenix and Jubilee complete the group.

‘Obviously there is a minimum amount of space required to keep sheep, and ours are a bit spoilt with much more than is strictly recommended. They have their own shelter – as do the donkeys – but for some reason, when it rains, they like to swap shelters, which I always find bemusing. In winter we supplement the sheep’s grazing with hay and a special meadow mix to keep them warm and well fed when the grazing diminishes.’

Every summer, the regular shearer appears to relieve the sheep of their fleece, which are then donated to a friend of Debbie’s, who cleans, spins and dyes the wool before creating cushion covers and other homewares with it. ‘It’s very satisfying to see the fleece put to such clever and creative use, and during the year, any I collect from fences or hedges I use to line my hanging baskets, so nothing is wasted.’

Despite being super vigilant with her enclosures, Debbie’s sheep did once find a tiny gap and go for an unscheduled wander down Greetham High Street, stopping traffic until she managed to swiftly round them up and return them to their paddock. ‘I grabbed the ringleader and, thankfully, the other two followed,’ she recalls.

Keeping sheep as pets does require a level of care. ‘You can’t just pop them in a field and leave them. They need checking twice a day, which is no fun on a pitch-dark, freezing January morning, but it’s part of keeping sheep. It’s vital to keep dogs away from them at all times, as sheep will panic and run through fear of a predator, even when not being chased, and the effects can be fatal – especially if they are in lamb. Another big threat is becoming cast; the weight of their fleece usually means they can’t stand up again if they end up on their back. I would advise anyone finding a sheep in such a predicament is to help them back up onto their feet if you possibly can.’

Describing her sheep as all having individual quirks and strong personalities, Debbie finds keeping her flock rewarding and great fun. ‘If you have the land to graze them, give it a try. I wouldn’t be without mine now. I love them all and every single day they make me smile.’

For regulations on keeping sheep, visit: www.gov.uk/ government/collections/keeping-sheep-and-goats-in-england

Corby Office

Tel: 01536 276300

michelle@seatons.co.uk

1 Alexandra Road, Corby, Northamptonshire NN17 1PE

Kettering Office

Tel: 01536 311690

linda.orr@seatons.co.uk

6 Market Street, Kettering, Northamptonshire NN16 0AH

MooiSkin

Clare Rudd-Jones caught up with Tam, owner of MooiSkin, a skin clinic for non-surgical treatments and procedures in Stamford. Tam is a qualified nurse, specialising in dermatology and plastic surgery and she has a passion for helping patients to achieve their desired results using well-researched and proven treatments. One of these is Dermapen microneedling, which she tells us more about here

TAM is a qualified nurse with a special interest in dermatology and aesthetics, and with almost three decades of experience in her field. She has worked in the private sector (on Harley Street), as well as in the NHS (at St Thomas’ Hospital, one of London’s most prestigious teaching hospitals). Having moved up to this region around a decade ago, Tam now works part-time at a local private hospital, as well as running her own clinic, MooiSkin (‘mooi’, pronounced ‘moy’, means ‘beautiful’), which she set up in 2021.

At MooiSkin, Tam offers injectable treatments (dermal fillers, toxin and skin boosters such as Profhilo and Seventy Hyal), dermaplaning, peels, lesion removal (skin tags, etc), Plexr Plus Plasma Fibroblast and Dermapen microneedling. She believes in creating naturallooking results and explains: ‘Aesthetics treatments should never look obvious. Your skin should simply look fresher, with lines softer. I love doing it. It really can make a huge difference to a patient’s confidence, and that transformative impact is wonderful.’

Among the treatments that Tam uses on patients to take advantage of the body’s natural healing process to boost collagen production is microneedling. It’s delivered as part of a facial and it can also be followed by a session under an LED light, aimed at further promoting healthy regeneration of the skin.

Tam, tell us a little more about microneedling ‘Collagen induction therapy, also known as microneedling, works by creating tiny punctures in the skin using fine needles. This triggers the body’s natural healing process to produce more collagen and elastin, resulting in smoother, firmer, and more even skin texture. Essentially, it “tricks” the skin into thinking it needs to repair a wound, stimulating collagen production at the site of the micro-injuries.

‘We always start gently, then increase the needle length and build up. The downtime is minimal for a treatment of its efficacity. It is a treatment that is used in improving scars, mild acne, acne scarring, pigmentation and fine lines, as well as to boost radiance and glow for healthy skin. It can also be used, with special exosome growth serums, for hair restoration. I always create a bespoke treatment programme for patients at an initial complimentary

consultation, but it would be typical to advise a course of 4–6 treatments for best results.’

Why do you specifically use Dermapen for microneedling?

‘Dermapen 4™ delivers the ultimate in advanced microneedling –up to 104% faster than other microneedling devices. It’s possible to control all functionality, such as speed and depth, with the touch of a button for reliable results. It treats larger areas faster than other microneedling devices, with exceptional outcomes and virtually no pain or downtime. The micro-channels created by the Dermapen can carry up to 80% more topical nutrients deeper into the skin. All this make it a trusted choice for effective, safe microneedling.’

Do you also stock the Dermapen product range?

‘I do also have Dermaceuticals skincare products, which are an excellent complement to the device, as well as products from Genosys, a leading cosmeceutical skincare line from Korea that is renowned for being ahead of the game when it comes to skincare. However, I definitely believe in focusing on ingredients rather than on specific brands and it’s not always a question of price with this –there are plenty of brands on the high street, such as The Ordinary or The Inkey List, for example, that contain excellent ingredients.

‘It can be tricky to work out just what’s the best skincare for your skin and that is where I am so well positioned to advise. It’s where it is beneficial for clients come and have a skin consultation with me (all my new patients have one of these – it’s complimentary), so that I can give recommendations on what’s best for them indivudally, both in terms of treatments and products. I can certainly recommend from the products I stock, but I always focus first and foremost on what’s the most appropriate for the skin and each individual patient.’

find out more & book now:

MooiSkin, the gate house, 20 st peter’s street, stamford pe9 2pq | 07886 936890 tam@mooiskin.co.uk | mooiskin.co.uk @mooiskin_stamford

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LOCAL PRIVATE

LOCAL PRIVATE PSYCHOLOGISTS

COVID-19: Online and face to face sessions offered

COVID-19: Online and face to face sessions offered

Online and face to face sessions offered

COVID-19: Online and face to face sessions offered

Specialising in treating:

LOCAL PRIVATE CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGISTS

LOCAL PRIVATE CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGISTS

LOCAL PRIVATE CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGISTS

LOCAL PRIVATE CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGISTS

Specialising in treating:

LOCAL PRIVATE CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGISTS

LOCAL PRIVATE CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGISTS

LOCAL PRIVATE CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGISTS

COVID-19:

LOCAL PRIVATE CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGISTS

LOCAL PRIVATE CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGISTS

LOCAL PRIVATE CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGISTS

LOCAL PRIVATE CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGISTS

LOCAL PRIVATE CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGISTS

• Low self-esteem and loss of confidence

Specialising in treating:

Specialising in Treatment for Adults with:

• Low self-esteem and loss of confidence

COVID-19: Online and face to face sessions offered

COVID-19: Online and face to face sessions offered

COVID-19: Online and face face sessions

COVID-19: Online and face to face sessions offered

• Low self-esteem and loss of confidence

• Low self-esteem and loss of confidence

COVID-19: Online and face to face sessions offered

COVID-19: Online and face to face sessions offered

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

COVID-19: Online and face to face sessions offered

COVID-19: Online and face to face sessions offered

COVID-19: Online and face to face sessions offered

COVID-19: Online and face to face sessions offered

COVID-19: Online and face to face sessions offered

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

Specialising in treating:

Specialising in treating:

• Anxieties, phobias, obsessions and ruminations

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

• Anxieties, phobias, obsessions and ruminations

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

Specialising in treating:

Specialising in treating:

Specialising in treating:

Specialising

• Low self-esteem and loss of confidence

Specialising in treating:

Specialising in treating:

• Low and loss of confidence

• Low self-esteem and loss of confidence

Specialising in treating:

Specialising in treating:

• Low self-esteem and loss of confidence

• Anxieties, phobias, obsessions and ruminations

• Significant life events, trauma, nightmares, flashbacks

Specialising in treating:

• Low self-esteem and loss of confidence

Specialising in treating:

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

• Low self-esteem and loss of confidence

• Low self-esteem and confidence

• Low self-esteem and loss of confidence

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

• Low self-esteem and loss of confidence

• Anxieties, phobias, obsessions and ruminations

• Significant life events, trauma, nightmares, flashbacks

• Low self-esteem and loss of confidence

• Low self-esteem and loss of confidence

• Attachment and relationship difficulties

• Significant life events, trauma, nightmares, flashbacks

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

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

• Anxieties, phobias, obsessions and ruminations

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

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

• Low depression, self-harm and suicidal thinking

• Anxieties, phobias, obsessions and ruminations

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

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

• Attachment and relationship difficulties

• Anxieties, obsessions ruminations

• Anxieties, phobias, obsessions and ruminations

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

• Anxieties, phobias, obsessions and ruminations

• Significant life events, trauma, nightmares, flashbacks

• Anxieties, phobias, obsessions and

• Anxieties, phobias, obsessions and ruminations

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

• Anxieties, phobias, obsessions and ruminations

• Significant life events, trauma, nightmares, flashbacks

• Anxieties, phobias, obsessions and ruminations

• Significant life events, trauma, nightmares, flashbacks

• Significant life events, trauma, nightmares, flashbacks

• Anxieties, phobias, obsessions and ruminations

• Significant life events, trauma, nightmares, flashbacks

• Significant life events, trauma, nightmares, flashbacks

• Anxieties, phobias, obsessions and ruminations

• Abuse (physical, emotional and sexual)

• Attachment and relationship difficulties

• Significant life events, trauma, nightmares, flashbacks

• Attachment and relationship difficulties

• Significant life events, trauma, nightmares, flashbacks

• difficulties

• Significant life events, trauma, nightmares, flashbacks

• Attachment and relationship difficulties

• Attachment and relationship difficulties

• Significant life events, trauma, nightmares, flashbacks

• Significant life events, trauma, nightmares, flashbacks

• Attachment and relationship difficulties

• Abuse (physical, emotional and sexual)

• Attachment and relationship difficulties

• Abuse (physical, emotional and sexual)

• Significant life events, trauma, nightmares, flashbacks

• difficulties

• Abuse (physical, emotional and sexual)

• Attachment and relationship difficulties

• Attachment and relationship difficulties

• Abuse (physical, emotional and sexual)

• Abuse (physical, emotional and sexual)

• Abuse (physical, emotional and sexual)

• Attachment and relationship difficulties

• Attachment and relationship difficulties

• Abuse (physical, emotional and sexual)

• Attachment and relationship difficulties

• Autistic Spectrum Disorders

• Abuse (physical, emotional and sexual)

• Autistic Spectrum Disorders

• Abuse (physical, emotional and sexual)

• Autistic Spectrum Disorders

• Autistic Spectrum Disorders

• Autistic Spectrum Disorders

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• Abuse (physical, emotional and sexual)

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Adult Speciality

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Adult

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Adult Speciality

• Autistic Spectrum Disorders

Johan Truter

• Abuse (physical, emotional and sexual)

Adult Speciality

• Autistic Spectrum Disorders

Adult Speciality

Adult Speciality

Adult Speciality

Johan Truter

Adult Speciality

Johan Truter

Tel: 01780 758556

Johan Truter

Johan Truter

Adult Speciality

Adult Speciality Johan Truter

Johan Truter

Johan Truter

Tel: 01780 758556

Tel: 01780 758556

Tel: 01780 758556

Johan Truter

Adult Johan Truter

Tel: 01780 758556

Adult Speciality

Johan Truter

www.psychologistuk.co.uk

• Autistic Spectrum Disorders (ASD)

Tel: 01780 758556

Tel: 01780 758556

Johan Truter

Johan Truter

www.psychologistuk.co.uk

www.psychologistuk.co.uk

Tel: 01780 758556

Tel: 01780 758556

www.psychologistuk.co.uk

Tel: 01780 758556

www.psychologistuk.co.uk

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

www.psychologistuk.co.uk

www.psychologistuk.co.uk

Tel: 01780 758556

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

Tel: 01780 758556

Johan Truter

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

www.psychologistuk.co.uk

www.psychologistuk.co.uk

Tel: 01780 758556

• Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

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

www.psychologistuk.co.uk

Orion

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

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

Orion 14 Barn Stamford, PE9 2AE

www.psychologistuk.co.uk

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

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

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

Psychotherapist

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

Tel: 01780 758556

Psychotherapist

www.psychologistuk.co.uk

Psychotherapist

Psychotherapist

Psychotherapist

www.psychologistuk.co.uk

Psychotherapist

Dr Herman Holtzhausen

Psychotherapist

Dr Herman Holtzhausen

Dr Herman Holtzhausen

Dr Herman Holtzhausen

Mbl: 07563241359

Psychotherapist Dr Herman Holtzhausen

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

Psychotherapist

Psychotherapist Dr Herman Holtzhausen

Dr Herman Holtzhausen

www.psychologistuk.co.uk

Dr Herman Holtzhausen

Mbl: 07563241359

Psychotherapist Dr Herman Holtzhausen

Dr Herman Holtzhausen

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

Dr Herman Holtzhausen

Mbl: 07563241359

Mbl: 07563241359

Mbl: 07563241359

Mbl: 07563241359

Dr Herman Mbl: 07563241359

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

www.stamfordpsychotherapist.co.uk

Mbl: 07563241359

Mbl: 07563241359

Mbl: 07563241359

Mbl: 07563241359 www.stamfordpsychotherapist.co.uk

www.stamfordpsychotherapist.co.uk

www.stamfordpsychotherapist.co.uk

www.stamfordpsychotherapist.co.uk

Child

Mbl: 07563241359

www.stamfordpsychotherapist.co.uk

Child and Adult Speciality, EMDR Consultant

Child

www.stamfordpsychotherapist.co.uk

www.stamfordpsychotherapist.co.uk

Psychotherapist

Child and Adult Speciality, EMDR Consultant

www.stamfordpsychotherapist.co.uk

www.stamfordpsychotherapist.co.uk

Child and Adult Speciality, EMDR Consultant

Child and Adult EMDR Consultant

Child and Adult Speciality, EMDR Consultant

www.stamfordpsychotherapist.co.uk

Chartered Clinical Psychologist Johan Truter

Psychotherapist

Dr Alexandra Dent

Child and Adult Speciality, EMDR Consultant

Child and Adult Speciality, EMDR Consultant

Dr Alexandra Dent

Child and Adult Speciality, EMDR Consultant

Child and Adult Speciality, EMDR Consultant

Dr Alexandra Dent

Psychotherapist

Mbl: 07986 585270

Dr

Dr Alexandra Dent

Dr Alexandra Dent

Dr Herman Holtzhausen

Child and Adult Speciality, EMDR Consultant

Dr Alexandra Dent

Dr Alexandra Dent

Mbl: 07986 585270

Mbl: 07986 585270

Dr Alexandra Dent

Dr Alexandra Dent

Dr Alexandra Dent

Mbl: 07986 585270

Mbl: 07986 585270

Mbl: 07986 585270

Mbl: 07986 585270

Tel: 01780 758556

Dr Herman Holtzhausen

www.alexandradent.co.uk

Mbl: 07986 585270

Mbl: 07563241359

Dr Herman Holtzhausen

www.alexandradent.co.uk

www.alexandradent.co.uk

www.alexandradent.co.uk

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

www.alexandradent.co.uk

www.alexandradent.co.uk

www.alexandradent.co.uk

Mbl: 07986 585270 www.alexandradent.co.uk

www.alexandradent.co.uk

Mbl: 07986 585270 www.alexandradent.co.uk

www.psychologistuk.co.uk

Mbl: 07563241359

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

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

www.stamfordpsychotherapist.co.uk

Mbl: 07563241359

www.stamfordpsychotherapist.co.uk

www.stamfordpsychotherapist.co.uk

Psychotherapist

Child and Adult Speciality, EMDR Consultant

Child and Adult Speciality, EMDR Consultant

Child and Adult Speciality, EMDR Consultant

Dr Alexandra Dent

Dr Herman Holtzhausen

Dr Alexandra Dent

Mbl: 07986 585270

Dr Alexandra Dent

Tel: 01780 758543

Mbl: 07986 585270

www.alexandradent.co.uk

Mbl: 07986 585270

www.stamfordpsychotherapist.co.uk

www.alexandradent.co.uk

www.alexandradent.co.uk

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

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

Precious by Clarins Launches

at Equilibrium

Clare Rudd-Jones went to Equilibrium’s Stamford boutique salon for the launch of the prestigious Clarins’ ‘Precious’ skincare range, then to Equilibrium Oakham to experience a luxurious Precious ‘experience’ (a fitting name for its two exquisite treatments).

Celebrations are the order of the day at Equilibrium right now: not only have they just launched as two of only three Clarins salons in the country to offer this exclusive range and its experiences, they have also just marked their 20th anniversary

BOTH OF EQUILIBRIUM’S beautiful salons have Clarins Gold Status, an accolade that acknowledges the exceptional quality of their offering by the awardwinning French brand they represent. And the exciting news is that the Oakham and Stamford salons have just been selected by Clarins to showcase their innovative, highly exclusive ‘Precious’ range – an amazing achievement given that there are only three salons in the county that do so, and Equilibrium have two of them. This means that both salons now stock the full range and have expert therapists who can advise on them and are trained to offer the exclusive Precious experiences (treatments).

Precious Launch & 20th Anniversary Celebrations

I was thrilled to be invited to one of the launch evenings for the range at the Stamford salon – an event that appropriately coincided with Equilibrium’s 20th anniversary, meaning that there was a wonderfully uplifting, celebratory mood all round. No wonder that the ever-professional team radiate positivity!

We were treated to delicious canapés (courtesy of Equilibrium’s Tracy) and Champagne, as well as a presentation on the Precious range by Clarins’ representatives Julia and Kate, who gave an engaging overview of how Precious developed, why it’s so special and what it will do for your skin.

Precious Skincare & the Moonlight Flower

Precious has been developed by Clarins Research to harness the power of their poetically named Moonlight flower (also known as Queen of the Night) – and as both a keen gardener and beauty product aficionado, I was enchanted by this story. Originally from the warm, humid forests for Central America, this rare flower – a type of cactus – blooms just one night a year. Realising its potential, Clarins set up its own greenhouses for the plant in Brittany, in Northern France. Once the Moonlight flower comes into bloom, there is a two-hour window to pick the flowers; these are harvested by hand and immediately processed at -196°C to freeze their fragile molecules. This natural cryoextraction process makes it possible to obtain a concentrate that reactivates FOXO, a longevity protein, which helps to promote enduringly youthful-looking skin. Clarins add to this an innovative replenishing and restructuring peptide trio, which leaves the skin further revitalised with its youthful radiance restored. The select range of premium products, which are elegantly packaged in chic, sustainable packaging, include La Mousse (a gorgeous creamy, foaming cleanser; £75), La Lotion (a hydrating, radiance-boosting liquid; £98), two serums (one for day; one for night; £299 each), a beautiful eye cream (which comes with a special applicator tool; £125) and two deeply enriching moisturisers (one slightly richer for drier complexions or anyone that prefers a richer texture; £299 each). There is also a wonderful little facial massage device called L’Outil (meaning ‘the tool’; £45), think gua sha, but heavier in the hand; it’s so luxurious in feel, beautifully cooling and especially effective. I invested in one of these and left with a range of samples of the serums and creams, which I have been artfully applying to my face with it ever since. Heaven! While Clarins’ products in the Precious range are high end in terms of price, this reflects their exclusivity, the extensive research that goes into their

OPPOSITE PAGE & LEFT: years of research but only one night to harvest the Moonlight Flower’s precious power; the range, shown here alongside images the elusive bloom, is now available at Equilibrium in Oakham and Stamford. BELOW: Equilibrium’s four Precious therapists (left to right): Lydia (Oakham), Jess and Lana (both Stamford) and Lorraine (Oakham).

formulation, and the truly premium skincare experience they are offering. Fortunately too, a little seems to go a long way.

Precious Experiences

A few days later, Samantha and Selena kindly invited me to try a Precious ‘experience’ at their beautiful salon in Oakham. I was warmly welcomed by Selena, before heading up to one of the lovely treatment rooms upstairs. As with the Stamford salon, it’s a real joy to see one of the town’s most historic buildings so carefully brought back to life. Everything is in the detail, and it’s all been so stylishly done. I felt the tension lifting as soon as I walked in.

There are two Precious experiences, both of which are high end and gloriously indulgent. The Precious Luxury Facial Ritual (£185) lasts for 90 minutes and is described as: ‘the ultimate facial ritual to reveal ageless radiance’. The promise is that the cryo-power of the rare Moonlight Flower provides unrivalled anti-ageing, youthrenewing benefits. A combination of Kobido Japanese massage and the cutting-edge, potent active ingredients in the products, visibly transform the skin, giving it a new burst of precious light.

There is also the Precious Sensorial Experience (£245), which lasts for a full 2 hours, and includes a targeted back massage prior to the Precious Luxury Facial. I was extremely fortunate to be road-testing this one, and I have to say that it was just amazing, combining deep relaxation with the utmost luxury. It’s unhurried, every element seems carefully considered and it’s ultra-luxe. It feels like the gift that just keeps on giving. There are so many exquisite elements that are specific to this treatment: the combination of lifting, cooling tools used; the specially choreographed massage moves on the face and body; the magical story around the products; the sheer length of the whole experience.

My therapist at Oakham was Lydia, who was delightful, looking after me wonderfully throughout and extremely knowledgeable about the new range. She radiated the same pride about this wonderful addition to Equilibrium that was so evident across the whole team at the salon on launch night.

Led by Samantha and Selena, the team at Equilibrium are so impressive – a real success story across our region and this latest addition – the launch of Precious – takes them to the next level. Over the years, Equilibrium have won a whole raft of customer service awards, and my own experience is that the lovely team treat you impeccably. You leave feeling refreshed, uplifted, relaxed and ready to tackle the world – with beautifully hydrated and plumped skin that just glows. That really is a precious gift.

to book your private consultation with one of equilibrium’s experts to discover the luxury precious collection and discuss the treatment experiences, please contact the salons:

equilibrium oakham, 19 mill street, oakham le15 6ea 01572 722227 | www.equilibriumoakham.co.uk @equilibriumoakham

equilibrium stamford, 21 st mary’s street, stamford pe9 2dg 01780 757579 | www.equilibriumstamford.co.uk @equilibriumstamford

WELLNESS

Spotlight on…

Orthodontics at The Priestgate Clinic

IT’S HARD TO BELIEVE just how fast orthodontics is advancing with computerised design of braces and then 3D printing them in metal – all a dream just 5 years ago. Then

The Priestgate Clinic in Peterborough became the first in the UK to routinely use 3D printed metal braces in 2023, and they’ve never looked back! This complements their ability to design and fabricate plastic orthodontic appliances, such as aligners within the practice, all within days not weeks. Here’s a summary of the latest 3D developments.

Orthodontic Aligners: Invisalign TM, the first commercial aligner brand was introduced back in 1998, and hasn’t changed much since. In contrast, the latest software and 3D printing technologies now enable orthodontists (the specialists who assess your mouth and jaws) to directly plan the intricacies of your treatment. This has been routine at The Priestgate Clinic since 2020, making each aligner treatment truly customised and more cost-effective. Plus, there’s hardly any need for all those Invisalign attachments glued on the teeth!

Digital Growth Modification Braces:

The Priestgate Clinic was the first in the UK to create patient-friendly transparent growthenhancing braces such as the ‘digital Twin Block’. This is used in children for ‘underbite’ and receded jaw problems, replacing bulky plastic/metal braces and extractions. This pioneering work has since been published and read by orthodontists across the world.

3D Printed Braces: These computer designed braces fit ‘like a glove’, are more clinically effective than traditional hand-made versions, and save patients several extra appointments.

The Priestgate Clinic, 26 Priestgate, Peterborough PE1 1WG | 01733 865000 www.priestgateclinic.co.uk

Q&A

WITH DANIEL SANDLER

EACH MONTH THE INTERNATIONAL MAKEUP ARTIST AND FOUNDER OF DANIEL SANDLER COSMETICS, WHO IS BASED IN OUR REGION, ANSWERS YOUR BEAUTY AND SKINCARE QUESTIONS. THIS MONTH DANIEL FOCUSES ON LASHES.

Help! My lashes are looking really sparse these days. How can I make them look fuller and longer without using false eyelashes or having a lash extension?

• With so many mascaras on the market, go for one that ticks the boxes for you. As your concern is a lack of lashes, try a false lash effect or anything that volumises and lengthens. Personally, I think that tubing mascaras are the way forward because they really stay put, don’t crumble and are easily removed with water. Regardless of how much you want to spend, you can find excellent tubing formulas on the high street as well as from luxury brands.

• A great tip is to work a waterproof black eyeliner pencil into your upper lash line, as this will fill in any gaps, creating the illusion of naturally thicker-looking lashes. In the industry, we call this ‘tight lining’, and it really frames and enhances your eyes.

• Curl your lashes with an eyelash curler, but if you think this looks more like an implement of torture, then visit an accredited beautician to have a permanent lash lift. Every day you’ll wake up with the most gorgeous lashes, which will stay lifted and curled wherever you are.

Help! My lashes are really blonde, but I don’t like wearing mascara as I think it looks unnatural. Is there anything I can do to bring my lashes to life?

Yes, absolutely! Why not try tinting your lashes? Visit an accredited beautician who will let you choose from a black, brown or navy tint. First, they’ll need do a patch test just to check you aren’t allergic. You’ll love the result because it gives you luscious-looking lashes day after day, and you’ll probably see lashes you never knew you had!

And, of course, your brows will look more defined if you tint those, so why not consider doing lashes and brows at the same time? But just an extra note about brow tinting: the colour never lasts as long as on lashes.

www.danielsandler.com | @danielsandlermakeup

If you have a beauty or skincare question for Daniel, he’d love to hear from you. Just email your question to us at nicholas@bestlocalliving.co.uk. Our favourite question each month wins one of Daniel’s fabulous multiaward-winning products.

Elysia Skin:Body:Laser

Empowering you to take a proactive and positive approach to your skin, health and wellness. We can help you achieve radiant, healthy and fabulous skin.

For over two decades, we have proudly pioneered a unique approach to health care and aesthetics, blending a passion for skin health with a deep understanding of holistic wellness. Our private, discreet clinic is tucked away from the hustle and bustle of the high street and offers ample on-site parking.

We focus on the connection between gut health, nutrition and the skin’s vitality. This holistic perspective ensures we treat the whole person, promoting youthfulness and optimal function from the inside out.

At the core of our philosophy is a commitment to restoring your skin’s natural radiance. While we offer a range of injectable fillers, muscle relaxing treatments and skin boosters

ADVANCED, NONSURGICAL TREATMENTS

To bring our philosophy to life, we have invested in the best technologies on the market. Many of these are not available unless you travel to London. Our treatment menu is extensive, and we offer everything from Lasers to treat pigmentation, vascular issues and hair removal to Cryotherapy and PLEXR fibroblast to remove skin tags and unwanted lesions.

A personal favourite is MORPHEUS8, the gold standard in needling and radiofrequency. MORPHEUS8 delivers exceptional, natural looking results, tightening and lifting the skin while boosting its overall health and appearance. MORPHEUS8 also delivers exceptional results for scarring and on the body, concerns such as stretch marks and laxity.

A treatment such as EMFACE is groundbreaking in the industry. When you think it’s improving muscle tone, strength and lift in the face and neck –this is essential. It’s the building blocks, the foundation. We understand the importance of muscle strength for our bodies but it’s essential for the face too. We are incredibly proud to have EMFACE in clinic.

Talking of body treatments, we find that many clients are concerned about the effects of ageing on their skin, despite their best efforts.

Non-invasive options like LIPOFIRM PRO and EXION BODY help address common concerns such as loose skin on arms, knees and tummy. These treatments are perfect for anyone wanting to regain confidence, whether it’s feeling comfortable in a short-sleeved top again or combatting that leg wobble as you’re walking!

Yasmin and Lisa

NOW LAUNCHED NOW LAUNCHED NOW LAUNCHED

EMFACE EYES - treat the root cause of ageing around this delicate area:muscle weakening leads to fat protrusion . We can address this effectively with no downtime. Treats: fat protrusion / eyebags /dark circles / wrinkles

HOLISTIC HEALTH MEETS INTIMATE WELLNESS

Our approach to aesthetics doesn’t stop at skin care. We offer solutions to improve intimate health for men and women. The EMSELLA chair has provided life-changing results by strengthening pelvic floor muscles. This treatment is ideal for addressing common issues like frequent urination, incontinence, erectile dysfunction not to mention post childbirth recovery. The pelvic floor muscles, like any other muscle, weaken with age - but EMSELLA offers a simple way to strengthen and restore functionality.

For women experiencing discomfort due to internal dryness, sensitivity or lack of libido, our EMFEMME 360 improves quality of life naturally, without masking symptoms.

ELYSIA was awarded CLINIC OF EXCELLENCE and BRAND AMBASSADOR in December 2024.

A testament to the outstanding client care and dedication to providing outstanding results and client care.

To bring our philosophy to life, we have invested in the best technologies on the market. Many of these are not available unless you travel to London.

For more information about Elysia, check out our website and social media (Facebook/ Instagram @elysiaskinbodylaser).

ELYSIA Skin:Body:Laser:Aesthetics, Fotheringham Road, Tansor, Oundle PE8 5HP 01832 226328 / 07879 620196 lisa@elysiaskinbodylaser.co.uk www.elysiaskinbodylaser.co.uk

Fiona Ettridge Reflexology

Clare Rudd-Jones enjoys a reflexology treatment with Fiona Ettridge in Stamford

REFLEXOLOGY is a non-invasive therapy that uses the application of pressure on specific points on the feet (and the hands and face) to heal imbalances in corresponding organs, glands and parts of the body. It works holistically, aiming to treat the whole person, and it is increasingly recognised by GPs and others in the medical profession as a useful complement to other healthcare practices, including more conventional medical treatments.

Reflexology is used to help with insomnia, anxiety, depression, headaches/migraines, sinusitis, muscular pain and digestive disorders, among other issues. It can be used during pregnancy and is very effective at encouraging labour to start once the baby is full term. It is popular as a holistic method of addressing the symptoms of the menopause.

I went for a treatment session with reflexologist Fiona Ettridge, who is a member of the Association of Reflexologists, and runs a clinic in Stamford (where she moved fairly recently, having previously been based in Hertfordshire), as well as practising at the Hale Clinic on Harley Street. She also offers reflexology in the workplace. Fiona discovered reflexology during her own pregnancies, which were both high risk, finding it highly beneficial for relaxation and improved wellbeing. She has been practising reflexology for over 25 years, so is extremely experienced in her field. She also offers facial reflexology, focusing on specific

reflex points on the face to help to stimulate the body’s healing mechanisms and to aid muscle tone.

In Stamford, Fiona works from a beautiful treatment room near the town end of the Uffington Road, with easy parking just outside. We started out by discussing whether I was familiar with reflexology and how it might be appropriate to my health, and I also filled in a health questionnaire. I explained that I had had reflexology before and had loved it. I like the fact that it’s non invasive yet hugely relaxing, and that it’s excellent for stress relief (always helpful if you have a job that is dominated by monthly deadlines, as mine is).

I was recovering from a painful abdominal strain and was hopeful that the treatment would help with that. I was also hoping that it would help with my Raynaud’s syndrome (white, numb toes and fingers due to poor circulation) – especially challenging during the chilly winter months. Reflexology improves blood and lymph flow and promotes good circulation, so it’s an excellent treatment to try if you suffer from circulation issues like this.

I settled back on the most comfortable pillow I think I’ve ever come across, on a wonderful heated treatment couch, then Fiona methodically and carefully worked on my feet, massaging and kneading each area, including the top of the feet. It was extremely relaxing, inducing a feeling of heaviness. I was aware that my stomach was gurgling away, and I felt a sort of tingling around the body, which all seemed to signify that the treatment was working, helping to restore balance.

At the end of the session, Fiona talked me through how she had found my feet – reflexologists can use the treatment as an indicator of overall body health, with problematic areas apparent – and she advised me to drink lots of water, to help flush away toxins.

I left feeling mentally uplifted and refocused as well as physically destressed, and I slept extremely well that night. It was as if Fiona had pressed reset – just wonderful.

Highly recommended!

GET IN TOUCH

a one-hour session is £80. for more information on fiona’s reflexology treatments & to book, call 07796 105164 or visit www.fionaettridgereflexology.co.uk

Welcome to Reflexology with Fiona Ettridge

With over 25 years’ experience as a qualified reflexologist

Let me show you how reflexology can help you on your journey to wellness.

• Soothes aches and pains in joints and muscles

• Helps with circulatory and digestive problems

• Throughout pregnancy and fertility issues

• Alleviates symptoms of depression and anxiety

Fiona Ettridge Reflexology

MAR IIHHT ITEC

Clinic Locations STAMFORD, LINCOLNSHIRE 4 HARLEY STREET, LONDON

@fionaettridgereflexology www.fionaettridgereflexology.co.uk 07796 105164

Fungal Nail Infection

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

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

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

Do you have Plantar Fasciitis (severe heel pain)?

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

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

Ear syringing in the comfort of your own home or weekly clinics now available at The Redlands Clinic.

Anita Altham Registered Nurse

Mobile: 07711 298880 Email: contact@stamfordearsyringing.co.uk

Website: www.stamfordearsyringing.co.uk

The Redlands Clinic, 3d Olive Branch Yard, St Leonard’s Street, Stamford, PE9 2HU

Specialist dental expertise for you &

family

Alongside (truly) patient-focused family dentistry and hygiene, the Priestgate Clinic is proud of its team of dental specialists, all highly qualified & experienced to meet your dental needs, no matter how complex.

This expertise is enhanced by the use of the latest high-tech facilities & techniques. Our specialists have proven track records in achieving excellent long-term results, with both time & cost-effective treatments.

To book a specialist consultation either ask your dentist for a referral, or book directly via our website or reception team.

Orthodontics

Richard Cousley & Matoula Taloumtzi

Everything from aligners to complex bite correction techniques, using the very latest 3D technology.

Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery

Clive Moss

Teeth, jaw, oral & facial surgical treatments, e.g. removal of teeth & soft tissue lesions, plus facial aesthetics.

Periodontics & Implants

Emiliano Zanaboni & Tilemachos Makropoulos

Advanced treatments for gum disease & cosmetic gum surgery.

Dental implants for missing teeth.

Endodontics

Sarfaraaz Zahid

Specialised microscope-assisted treatments for complex root canal problems.

BEAUTY

Behind the Scenes… with becca & alice

Prepping models for a photoshoot is one of the best parts of the job, writes makeup artist Rebecca Chantrell, especially when it’s for a great cause such as the For Rutland’s Good and New Clothes Sale (see p28). This day is a highlight of my year. Becca’s friend and fellow makeup artist Alice Snell also gives her top tips for picture-perfect makeup

THE MODELS AND TEAM arrived a few hours before the photographer, which gave us plenty of time to get them ready and discuss changes to outfits and locations for the shots. After a quick recce of the beautiful Rutland Hall, it was off to set up the Windsor Suite as our base for hair and makeup. It’s huge, so we had oodles of space to get changed and ready. The models wore multiple outfits throughout the day, so rather than choosing makeup to work with the outfits, I wanted it to complement their skin tone and hair; this way it was super versatile. In addition, the hairstyles needed to withstand the weather and many, many outfit changes. Here are a few key products I used to create the looks.

CAROLYN

Hair: Carolyn has a short bob, so I decided I wanted a chic, Hollywoodinspired look. I waved the hair with a small barrel tong in one direction, then I brushed it out and set well with hairspray. Maria Nila Finishing Spray is fabulous for daily use, as it’s non-sticky and smells delicious!

Makeup: The lipstick I used on Carolyn was Charlotte Tilbury’s ‘Wedding Belles’. It’s a great, deep rosy pink that really suited Carolyn. The eyebrow pencil, which accentuated her brows, was ‘Ash Blonde’ from Rimmel.

LOTTIE

Hair: We went for a glam half-up do with smooth curls created with straighteners. Makeup: I used Iconic’s ‘Day to Slay’ eyeshadow palette , which has a huge range of shades. I opted for browns and a Champagne tone in the inner corner to make the eyes sparkle. I love the blush on Lottie’s cheeks – it’s by Hourglass, in ‘Sublime Flush’, one of my all-time favourites. The bright pink lipstick was from Beauty Pie.

To get the gorgeous skin glow on all three models, I used Iconic’s Original Illuminator, which is a liquid highlighter.

ALICE’S TOP TIPS FOR PICTURE-PERFECT MAKEUP

1

ELIZABETH

Hair: I wanted a nod to the 1970s with big, bouncy curls, so I backcombed through Elizabeth’s whole head for volume and curled her hair with a large barrel tong.

Makeup: I used Charlotte Tilbury’s eyeshadow palette in ‘Pillow Talk’, which has great shades that suit everyone. I particularly like it on blue eyes, as the pinky/terracotta shade makes blue eyes pop. For Elizabeth’s blusher I used Daniel Sandler’s gorgeous Watercolour Liquid Blush in ‘Cherub’, applied with a brush.

Use a small brush for setting powder (a fluffy eyeshadow brush is ideal). This will ensure you’ve toned down any shine in the right places without over-powdering and losing that gorgeous glow you’ve spent time creating. Setting sprays are a great alternative, too, if you’re not a fan of powders.

2Take a sweep of your blush/bronzer over your nose and forehead too. This feels bizarre, but it will tie everything in seamlessly. If you’ve used a little too much blusher or bronzer, I’d recommend going back over the skin with a foundation brush/sponge, using whatever product is left on there to buff out any harsh lines or edges.

3For flash photography, try to avoid any powders or foundation with a high SPF content (particularly look out for titanium dioxide in the list of ingredients), as this can cause flashback, which can make the powder appear as a bright white cast on the skin.

FOLLOW BECCA & ALICE/ FIND OUT MORE:

Rebecca Chantrell makeupbybecca.co.uk @rebeccachantrellmakeup

Alice Snell alicesnellbridal.com @alicesnellmua

photos: elli dean

health, beauty, wellness

Four Roots Wellbeing

Rutland Hall Hotel has opened a brand new spa offering a journey focused on the four dimensions of wellbeing. Editor Clare Rudd-Jones went to experience this pioneering journey for herself

SINCE the Patel family took ownership of Rutland Hall in 2020, they have invested enormously in the hotel, renovating the historic hotel’s main, iconic building, opening Blossoms restaurant, adding (in 2024) the county’s largest events space and, at the start of 2025, launching a brand new wellness centre, Four Roots Wellbeing.

The Four Dimensions of Wellbeing

Described as ‘a pioneering luxury wellbeing experience designed to rejuvenate the mind, body and soul’, Four Roots Wellbeing offers ‘a gender-neutral, holistic escape from daily life’, combined with a diverse treatment menu with thoughtfully conceived massages and facials available for everyone, including those living with health challenges and fragility. It offers guests a personalised four-hour journey encompassing the four dimensions of wellbeing.

This includes:

• enhancing your spiritual wellbeing with a relaxing, bubbly bathing experience.

• promoting your physical wellbeing with a personalised treatment.

• harnessing your emotional wellbeing with meditation.

• nurturing your social wellbeing with a delicious, nutritious dining experience.

MY JOURNEY

On arrival, I settled into the attractive reception area, replete with inviting green velvet sofas, calming low lighting, green walls and attractive displays of Tribe517 products, the vegan-friendly, allnatural in-house brand at Four Roots. I was welcomed by the team (zen vibes all round) and offered a delicious smoothie to enjoy while I filled in the obligatory health form.

1) Bathing Ceremony

The Four Roots experience is described as a ‘journey’, and it all starts in the bath. You choose from different watery options: milk (skin softening), tea (antioxidant) or magnesium (also an antioxidant, sleep inducing). Taking inspiration from the Queen of the Nile (and the bathtub), Cleopatra, I went for the milk option. A safe, solid choice!

Now the bath was probably the part of the ‘journey’ that I was most anxious about. My cleansing ritual at home is usually a speedy splash in the shower rather than a wallow in the bath, and a lengthy bathe in a public space is something I haven’t done since visiting the legendary hot spring baths of Japan before my children (now teenagers!) were born. Hopefully I’d get into the swing of things and enjoy the slow down!

Bathing Suite One, where I was to spend the first hour of my journey, has two claw-footed baths, so you can relax alongside a companion, if you wish. Armed with towels and a snuggly robe, I went in. I was given a few minutes to settle comfortably into the bath (you can take a swimming costume, if you want to, and your therapist comes in to position a sheet over the bath, both to keep in the heat for longer and to afford a degree of privacy). Lovely touches included little pots containing a wild honey face mask and a body scrub. Gentle spa music and dimmed lighting created a relaxing ambience.

At several times throughout the session, my therapist checked in on me, which felt reassuring. You can spend a whole hour in the water, if you like, but I was ready to come out after 30 minutes, which was fine too. It’s certainly an agreeable way to relax down before a treatment and it did seem to ease a few aches and pains I’d been suffering from, which was a plus. If you’re a bather, you’d love it!

Personalised Treatment

Next up was my personalised treatment, in one of four designated treatment rooms at the spa. For this you choose in advance from a menu of facials, massages and combined experiences specifically curated for Four Roots Wellbeing. My pick was the neroli hydration facial, which involved the application of a progression of ever more exquisite-smelling products – cleansers, exfoliaters, a lovely buttery mask, then hydrating serums and moisturisers. There were hot towels aplenty and massage elements too, including a super-relaxing head massage. At the end, we talked through the Tribe517 products used in the facial, as I was impressed by the range and keen to find out more.

I loved some of the special touches during the facial, too – a scented ribbon tied around my finger to remind me of the

‘Taking inspiration from the Queen of the Nile (and the bathtub), Cleopatra, I went for the milk option’

experience; and the gentle dings of a bell to signify that the session was coming to a close – reminiscent of a mindfulness session. The focus is very much on enhancing wellbeing in a holistic way, not just a clinical treatment, and, with a job where a deadline is always looming, alongside a busy home life, I very much appreciated that.

Relaxing Meditation

The next part of the Four Roots journey was an hour dedicated to meditation – my favourite part of the afternoon. An hour felt like a lovely long time to indulge in a meditation session, yet, at the end of it, I could have done the same all over again. (Clearly I’m a meditator rather than a bather!)

There are two meditation rooms and you can divide your time between them as you wish. Meditation Room One is dark, with an aurora projector shining otherworldly lights across the ceiling and walls. There are four loungers, where you can lie, snooze, stare at the lights – whatever you like. There is a Tribe517 ‘Meditation Menu’ that you can access via QR codes (ask for the wifi code before you start your journey to help with downloading these; headphones are provided). Meditations included The Art of Happiness and Sleep Meditation. Meditation Room 2, meanwhile, is brighter, with salt crystal lamps around the side and just two spa loungers. It’s a space in which to read, if you like, or even look at your phone. It was quiet and very relaxing.

the four dimensions of wellbeing

• enhancing your spiritual wellbeing with a relaxing, bubbly bathing experience.

•promoting your physical wellbeing with a personalised treatment. choose from a curated selection of massages and facials.

• harnessing your emotional wellbeing with a quiet, relaxing meditation session.

• nurturing your social wellbeing with a delicious, nutritious dining experience.

Four Roots Dining

At this point, I decided to get changed, although you can stay in your robe right to the end, if you prefer. There are lovely changing rooms, with showers should you wish to indulge in further ablutions. (There are also handy lockers for anything you want to store away.) I made my way back to the reception/dining area for my dining experience, the final part of the journey. For this, there is either a lunch selection of healthy salads or afternoon tea. I opted for the latter and it really was excellent: classic dinky sandwiches, beautiful little cakes, a delicious mini quiche, a sausage roll. I heard the group at the table next to me describing it as ‘amazing’. We all asked for doggy bags to take things home in, and my home team loved their treats too!

At the end of the afternoon, I was sad that my journey was coming to an end, and I did feel that the time spent slowing down had been beneficial. The treatment and generous afternoon tea alone made the offering here feel competitively priced (at time of printing, a journey went from £139 at off-peak times). I treated myself to a pot of the Tribe517 face mask that I’d sampled in the bath, hoping to recreate a little bit of the Four Roots Wellbeing journey at home. I left feeling calm, destressed and uplifted – the three things I’d noted down in my health form as hopes for my afternoon. Mission accomplished.

FOUR ROOTS WELLBEING, RUTLAND HALL HOTEL, BARNSDALE, NEAR OAKHAM, RUTLAND LE15 8AB. CALL 01572 757901 OR VISIT THE WEBSITE TO FIND OUT MORE & TO BOOK. WWW.RUTLANDHALL.CO.UK/WELLBEING/ @RUTLANDHALLHOTEL

Picture: Gina Fernandes

Zac Perrin

Head Chef, The Falcon Inn, Fotheringhay

Zac’s Recipe: Venison Wellington

Ingredients:

300g venison loin

1tbsp Dijon mustard

100g button mushrooms

1 sprig of thyme

1 shallot

2 cloves garlic

10g butter, plus more for the pancakes

20ml brandy (We use Metaxa 7 star)

20g chervil

50g flour

150g milk

1 egg, plus one for brushing the Wellington Puff pastry (we make our own, but a goodquality shop bought is fine) Maldon Salt

Method:

• Venison: Season the venison loin and sear in a hot pan with some oil. Remove from the heat and brush with the Dijon mustard.

Q&A with Zac

Tell us about your background I took on an apprenticeship at South Essex College, before moving to Tain L’Hermitage to work at Restaurant Umia, under Frédéric Bau (Creative Director of Valrhona Chocolate) and Rika Bau. I returned to England after three years, moving to Peterborough, and I worked at The Bell Inn at Stilton, and Clarke’s Restaurant under Lee Clarke.

Zac, how would you describe your style of cooking?

My cooking revolves around seasonal and local ingredients, utilising the best that Northamptonshire and nature have to offer in a sustainable manner. We add hints of Japanese cuisine and use chocolate in savoury applications as a nod to my time at Umia.

A favourite dish currently on the menu

Having a soufflé on the menu here has become somewhat of a staple. Our current apple crumble soufflé is certainly a winner with our guests and a real show of the skill of our team.

A favourite ingredient?

I have an obsession with wild garlic. We forage for it, around 3 miles from The Falcon Inn. Every year we look for new ways to preserve this wonderful product, to extend its time on the menu. March and April are good months to forage for wild garlic.

A cooking ‘trick’ to share with readers

A sharp knife will solve half your problems and help you dial in your knife skills quicker. You’ll be much safer and have a tidier result, whether you’re dicing an onion or filleting a fish.

A bit about The Falcon Madison and I took on The Falcon in December 2019, just before the start of the Covid pandemic. It was our first experience running our own business and what a challenge to begin with! Despite all of the challenges thrown at us, we have built a successful name for ourselves and are proud to say not only did we survive, we’re now thriving! We were awarded two rosettes by the AA guide in 2023 and winners of Northamptonshire Pub of the Year in the Good Pub Guide 2020.

• Duxelles: Finely chop the mushrooms, thyme, shallot and garlic. Sweat the shallots and garlic in a pan with the butter until starting to colour, then add the mushrooms. Cook out all of the liquid from the mushrooms and deglaze with the brandy. Check the seasoning and cool on a tray.

• Chervil Pancake: Blend the chervil, flour, milk and egg together until smooth, then add a pinch of salt. Melt a little butter in a non-stick frying pan and pour in enough batter to cover the bottom of the pan. Cook on both sides and cool. This recipe yields around four pancakes.

• Assembly & Serving

1. To assemble the Wellington, double layer some clingfilm and place a pancake on top. Spoon the duxelles onto the pancake at the same width as the venison. Place the venison

loin on the duxelles and use the clingfilm to roll everything tightly.

2. Allow this roll to chill for at least 1 hour, so that it holds its shape. Next, roll your puff pastry into a rectangle. Unwrap the venison from the clingfilm and place it on the pastry. Roll the pastry around the venison and crimp the edges.

3. Brush the Wellington with egg wash, sprinkle with Maldon salt and pepper, then bake it in a preheated oven at 200ºC for 18 minutes, or until a core temperature of 45ºC is achieved, allowing it to rest up to 58ºC.

4. Carve and serve with a nice red wine sauce, or even a hollandaise!

the falcon inn, fotheringhay, northants pe8 5hz 01832 226254 www.thefalcon-inn.co.uk @falconinnfotheringhay

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

Mondays-Thursdays:

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

Fridays-Saturdays:

Food served 12-8pm, bar closes at 11pm

Sundays:

Food served 12-3pm, bar closes at 5pm

What's on?

Darts Social nights! (Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5pm) Complimentary snacks provided in the evening

Fish and Chip Fridays!

Enjoy our local real ale battered Haddock and chips, crushed minted peas and tarragon tartare sauce all for just £10 between 12-8pm on Fridays!

Look out for our Mother's day set menu online!

Indie Food & Drink

This month Clare Rudd-Jones learns how to cook plant-based food at a fabulous workshop at The Blonde Beet in Stamford, and we find out more about the wonderful Birch Tree Café in Easton on the Hill

THE BLONDE BEET

Duck down a little alley to the left of Stamford Botanics on St Paul’s Street and you reach the charming courtyard of The Blonde Beet, a plant-based café and restaurant where veggies are the star of the show. Owner and chef Jo runs occasional ‘Cook with The Blonde Beet’ workshops, and the next one of these is scheduled for 16 March. Inspired by many a delicious dinner I’d enjoyed at the restaurant’s Friday night bistro evenings, I went along to one in February.

I increasingly try to eat plant-based food at home and was keen to introduce new dishes into my repertoire, so I was delighted to book on to one of The Blonde Beet’s cookery workshops. More and more people are choosing not to eat meat, whether for animal-welfare reasons or due to the health and cost benefits of moving to a more plant-based diet. Jo explains: ‘Lentils, chick-peas, beans, tofu – all of these are cheaper, arguably more accessible, and certainly longer lasting in the store cupboard than meat products. Good-quality, organic produce of this kind will be less expensive than meat. So a plant-based diet can work really well for you if you’re watching the pennies.’

When I ask what to expect on the workshops, she tells me: ‘Our aim with these workshops is to explore how to use colour, texture and flavour to create a delicious, seasonal plant-based meal. Taking two key ingredients, we will talk you through four of our signature dishes, giving you creative control to make them your own. We finish the workshop with a shared meal, so you can

compare and contrast your flavour combinations and congratulate yourself for your hard work!’

There are 10 places on each workshop, with everyone working in pairs in the beautiful main room upstairs in The Blonde Beet; each pair shares a table and an induction hob. If you go on your own, as I did, part of the joy of the workshop is making new friends –collaborating with a new co-chef might seem daunting, but it was a highlight of the experience.

Most of the people on our workshop were either vegetarian or vegan, but this isn’t always the case, says Jo. She says: ‘On past workshops, some attendees have been vegans, but not all have –perhaps about 50/50. Many people come along to gain confidence in terms of which flavours go well together with plant-based cooking… perhaps also to find out how we cook behind the scenes!’

Another thing that it was great to learn more about was The Blonde Beet’s commitment to sustainability. Jo explains: ‘We really focus on eating the whole vegetable, so root to leaf, if you like – the plant-based version of “nose to tail” – as sustainability is such a key part of our ethos at The Blonde Beet. It’s the best way of getting full value for money out of your spend on veggies, too.’

Jo chooses the menu for the workshop around what’s seasonal, so ours was focused on winter roots, specifically celeriac and beetroot. We started with a beetroot, hazelnut and chocolate cake, giving it time to cook while we worked through the rest of our menu: curry butter celeriac; spiced chickpea salad; mint and lime yoghurt; and pickled roots. These are all dishes that complement each other, but that can also be recreated individually at home.

If you’re looking for inspiration on how to create the most inviting colourful, textureful, avourful plate of plant-based dishes, this is definitely the workshop for you. I loved discovering more about combining avours and really elevating veggies, and each element was as delicious as the next. e sociable element of the workshop was an unexpected delight, too. Good eating, of course, is o en all about conviviality and shared experience, and doing the workshop was a wonderful way to make new acquaintances and bond. We all nished by enjoying a meal together and it was just a delight. Highly recommended.

The next Cook with The Blonde Beet workshop is on 16 March (9.30am–2pm). It costs £120 including all ingredients, recipes and sit-down meal with a glass of wine. Book online. The Blonde Beet, 7 St Paul’s Street, Stamford PE9 2BE www.blondebeet.co.uk | @the_blonde_beet

BIRCH TREE CAFÉ

This spacious café in the picturesque village of Easton on the Hill serves a wonderful selection of tasty, high-quality food and beverages. Bring the kids, the dog – or not – as works for you. You can sit outside, inside – there’s room for all. It’s a fabulous initiative that has the motto ‘rooted in the community, thriving together’.

It’s now three years since the award-winning Birch Tree Café opened in Easton on the Hill and it is now an established part of the local community. e ‘Birch Tree Café’ name re ects the open space and green surroundings of the café, and in particular the impressive birch tree that greets visitors at the entrance. e café provides a safe and supportive working environment for young adults with Down’s Syndrome, as well as serving the local community and beyond with great beverages, cakes and home-prepared food.

‘ e café is a commercial and community success – sales are still growing, and our young people are thriving,’ said Tim Nicol, Trustee of T-21, the charity that runs the café. ‘Of our team of 28, four are now gaining real working experience outside the café. Our activities’ programme has developed enormously; team members are not just working in the café, but also learning woodwork and handicra s in our workshop, and other practical skills like sewing, gardening and cooking. We now run sessions in yoga, time management, and money skills, and host lunches for Evergreen Trust where their clients and our team members enjoy socialising together. anks to all our customers, sta , supporters, donors and volunteers for making the café such a success.’

Here at the magazine, we can vouch for the excellence of this café. Editors Clare and Nick note: ‘It’s brilliant. A fabulous community initiative, supporting young people and creating a sense of belonging. It’s our halfway break when we are walking the Stamford to Easton round with our dog. Last time we went, we shared a carrot cake, which we both agreed was the best we’d had in ages (dogs welcome at the garden table). Next time, we will be having a whole piece each!’

Birch Tree Café, New Road, Easton on the Hill, Stamford PE9 3NN. Open: Tue–Sat 10am–4pm. Closed Sun & Mon www.birchtreecafe.co.uk | @birchtreecafeeaston1

‘Birch Tree Café is a commercial and community success –sales are still growing, and our young people are thriving’

The perfect venue…

Local briefing

News from the region this month

New Lodge Farm nominated as 2025 Countryside Alliance Finalist

The Countryside Alliance, an organisation dedicated to championing and preserving the rich heritage, natural beauty and vibrant communities that define our countryside, has announced its regional finalists for the 2025 awards. The successful finalists will be announced at an event at the Houses of Parliament in June.

New Lodge Farm’s owners, Simon and Sarah Singlehurst, were thrilled to find that their working livestock farm, which also provides hospitality, leisure and vital community services through their shop and café facilities, had been nominated to represent our region in the rural enterprise section. The farm is based between Bulwick and Laxton on the North Northamptonshire border with Rutland, Lincolnshire and Leicestershire. Whilst remaining a working livestock farm, it has been caringly developed into a highly respected provider of leisure services, offering an award-winning farm shop, butchery, café/restaurant, a top-of-the-range swim spa and a five-star, exclusively adult, touring caravan, motorhome, camping and glamping village.

Sarah Singlehurst commented: ‘We have worked particularly hard to ensure that our customers, receive the best possible experience, and I think this is reflected in the business being nominated for this award. We now need to go on further and win, not just for our business but to promote all businesses in our beautiful region of the country. It would be wonderful if we could encourage as many people as possible to vote for us and send a real signal that this area is alive and kicking.’

VOTE

FOR

NEW LODGE FARM:

If you have visited New Lodge Farm or are just interested in raising the region’s profile, then please vote for them! Voting is for the whole month of March 2025. Go to the website below and choose ‘New Lodge Farm’ in the Midlands Rural Enterprise section. www.countryside-alliance.org/awards

Evergreen Care Trust: 20th Anniversary Ball

The Evergreen Care Trust is a local charity that was founded 20 years ago to meet the growing needs of many older people in our community. Since that time, Evergreen has grown into an awardwinning charity that provides care, friendship and practical support for the elderly in Stamford, Bourne, the Deepings and surrounding villages. They work closely with – and receive referrals from – GP practices, community nursing teams, social services and the council (SKDC) to ensure that those in greatest need receive support.

Evergreen has over 100 volunteers who support older members of the community through a wide range of free, volunteer-led services including: advocacy, befriending, community support (for example: lifts to hospital, small DIY jobs), chaplaincy and listening service, clean teams and decluttering, care for hands/nails, social engagement (for example: Friends Together Group, friendship lunches, etc), the supply and fitting of personal alarms, and the ever-popular soup delivery service.

As a small local charity, they work hard to raise the necessary funds to enable them to provide this support through fund-raising events.

Just one such event is the Evergreen Care Trust 20th Anniversary Ball, which will take place on Saturday 26 April, 7pm–midnight, at Rutland Hall Hotel, near Oakham. The ball will also allow Evergreen to pay tribute to those staff, volunteers and friends who have played such an important part in promoting the Evergreen Care Trust over the past two decades.

Tickets to the 20th Anniversary Ball cost £43 a head and include a three-course dinner, DJ, silent auction and tombola. Buy them at buytickets.at/evergreencaretrust/1485054 or by scanning this QR code. For more information, call 01780 765900 or email reception@evergreencare.org.uk evergreencare.org.uk | @evergreen_care_trust

Local briefing

News from the region this month

Clearance Sale at Chameleon

Chameleon’s is having an unmissable clearance sale – everything must go!

Located on St Mary’s Hill in Stamford, Chameleon is a specialist lingerie and swimwear boutique with over 20 years’ fitting experience. To make space for its exciting spring arrivals, Chameleon is hosting an exclusive clearance sale like never before. From Wednesday 5 March to Saturday 29 March, you can enjoy unbeatable discounts on every fashion item* from before autumn 2024, including lingerie, swimwear, leisurewear and hosiery – with prices slashed by at least 50%.

Sale details are that there are no returns – all items are sold as seen. There’s a minimum card spend of £20 (or a £1 charge applies). And, once it’s gone, it’s gone!

This is your chance to refresh your wardrobe at a fraction of the price, whether you’re stocking up on everyday essentials or treating yourself to a touch of luxury. Plus, with Chameleon’s fabulous ‘Posh Pants’ offer, the more you buy, the more you save.

Exclusive early access: Chameleon’s loyal customers will receive an exclusive invitation to a priority preview before the sale officially begins. Keep an eye on your email – you won’t want to miss first pick of the best deals.

Think of it as the ultimate spring clean. With discounts this deep, stock won’t last long. Visit Chameleon in-store and grab your favourites before they’re gone.

*Excludes all continuity stock

Chameleon, 5 St Mary’s Hill, Stamford PE9 2DP Open: Wed–Sat 10am–4.30pm | 01780 755405 www.chameleonboutique.co.uk| @ _chameleonboutique

100 | local briefing: march 2025

The Barrowden Community Hub

The Barrowden Community Hub opens this month. It was built by Messenger BCR (Collyweston) and is a replacement for the 98-yearold wooden village hall. An Open Day will be held on Saturday 8 March 10am–4pm for everyone in the area to come and visit to see what is on offer at this spectacular new building.

Besides facilitating activities traditionally associated with a village hall, such as exercise classes, dances, concerts, wedding receptions, funeral wakes and parish council meetings, the Village Hall Development Group (VHDG) has embraced a step change in what can be offered, in conjunction with the local health authority, Rutland County Council and Citizens Advice Bureau. A key focus is for example on facilitating dementia awareness and support groups.

With these objectives in mind, the new hub has been specifically designed by Harris McCormack Architects (Wansford) to facilitate groups of different sizes, simultaneously if necessary, for health and wellbeing support events, entertainment, village meetings and similar activities.

The VHDG secured £300,000 from the Community Ownership Fund, and £270,000 from the National Lottery, further grants from charitable trusts, village residents’ donations and a public works loan, in total realising more than £800,000.

Rutland MP, Alicia Kearns has taken an active interest in the project and was instrumental in moving progress forward for the project with support in obtaining the government’s Community Ownership Fund. She will be officially opening the building at a ceremony to be held on Friday 21 March at 10am. On Saturday 22 March at 7pm local musicians are putting on a Celebration Gala Concert to raise additional funds for new equipment.

Event tickets are £15 at Barrowden & Wakerley Community Shop, by email at barrowdencommunityhub@gmail.com or on 01572 748655 | www.barrowdenvh.co.uk

Local briefing

News from the region this month

GoCruise & Travel

Digital Marketing Agency Moves to Stamford

Picture yourself in a beautiful European city – you’ve strolled the medieval streets, visited the museum and savoured some regional delights from the market square, and now, rather than pack up and fly home, you wander back to the riverbank to board your luxurious boat, ready to relax and unwind after your day’s exploration.

After enjoying an evening of delicious food, featuring fresh local produce, and a cosseted night in sumptuous bedlinen, you awaken to a brand-new destination, ready to explore all over again. This is the utter joy of river cruising, where you only have to unpack once, but get to experience the history, culture, food and atmosphere of a variety of locations, all on one journey, surrounded by luxurious comfort.

River cruise ships offer an intimate, boutique hotel atmosphere. Itineraries meander along Europe’s most iconic rivers – the Seine, where historic Normandy drifts inland to romantic Paris; the Rhine, that runs through Switzerland, Germany and the Netherlands, past picturesque landscapes and historic castles; and the Danube, flowing through 10 countries, and connecting vibrant cities including Vienna and Budapest.

With a blend of culture, relaxation and adventure, river cruising offers an unforgettable experience, and your local GoCruise & Travel Specialist, Nigel Ramsden, can help you select the itinerary and ship that perfectly reflects your tastes. Combining a passion for travel and exceptional customer service, Nigel has access to fantastic fares and can tailor your trip to make the most of your time. Be it a river cruise or any other tailored package holiday across the world, Nigel will be able to help and give you his undivided attention. You will receive 100% personal service throughout and have the reassurance that GoCruise & Travel is a big, established business and all fully ABTA bonded for complete peace of mind.

0800 246 5898 | nigel.ramsden@gocruiseandtravel.co.uk www.gocruiseandtravel.co.uk/nigelramsden

Small businesses in Stamford and the surrounding areas have a new ally when it comes to generating leads and improving discoverability online. In July 2024, Active Internet Marketing (UK), a national leader in digital marketing for business, opened its doors. Far from being a new player in this arena, Active has been going strong since 2010, when it was established by CEO Adam Mark Prosser. As a former executive at Yellow Pages, Prosser understands the power of search in driving business leads, as well as the disruptive power of the internet.

Today, with over 100 clients from a diverse range of industries, Active has partnered with startups, small businesses, and large enterprises to deliver tailored strategies that drive growth. In the past two years, Active has invested more than £500K in research and development, allowing the agency to develop proprietary technologies and processes covering search engine optimisation (SEO) and pay-per-click (PPC), to content strategy, social media management, and web design and development.

‘Moving our offices to Stamford was an important step in our own company growth, and in the last six months we’ve added many local businesses as customers and friends,’ said Prosser, who lives in the area. ‘We’ve grown our team and even established a series of regular educational networking events where local business owners can meet us in a relaxed environment to learn about digital marketing and discuss their goals and challenges.’

Active Internet Marketing (UK) takes the view that no two businesses are alike. ‘I think what makes us different is that our team works in a collaborative way with clients,’ Prosser adds. ‘This means we can ensure that every tactic, every campaign, and every decision is optimised to build your brand and deliver return on your marketing investment.’

Active Internet Marketing, 1st & 2nd Floor, Offices, 45 Broad Street, Stamford PE9 1PX | 01780 693003 activeinternetmarketing.co.uk | @activeinternetmarketing

Every other Wednesday 10am - 12noon

*Starting from 15th January 2025

We warmly welcome our local community to enjoy a complimentary selection of teas, coffees, and homemade cakes. It’s a perfect opportunity to meet new friends and share good company.

No need to book - just pop in on the day!

To learn more or to reserve a table, please contact Jess, our Customer Relations Manager on 01832 430 084.

Kingfisher Road, Thrapston, Kettering, NN14 4GN www.countrycourtcare.com

Local briefing

Rumble Live Action Gaming

Rumble Live Action Gaming re-opens at Rutland Water on 1 March

If you’re looking for an epic activity that will have your kids (and, let’s be honest, probably you too) buzzing for weeks, look no further. Located on the shores of Rutland Water between Sykes Lane and Whitwell, Rumble offers an unbeatable combination of heartpounding excitement, fresh air, and unforgettable memories.

Think laser tag, but so much better! Players are kitted out with state-of-the-art equipment and invited to join thrilling missions across woodland battle zones. Duck behind trees and barricades, storm the towers and channel your inner hero as you outwit your opponents.

The best part? Rumble caters to kids as young as six years old, making it perfect for running off some steam. And let’s not forget the ‘big kids’ (aka teens, parents and even grandparents), who are guaranteed to have just as much fun. Whether you’re dominating a tower, closing in on their VIP or holding your ground against an onslaught, there’s a mission for everyone.

Star Wars Event – 4 May: Whether you are an aspiring Padawan or a seasoned Jedi, you will be able to join Star Wars characters including storm troopers, starpilots and surprise guests from the Empire, and take part in themed gaming missions at Rutland Water on 4 May (and Grafham Water on 3 May). Fight for the Rebel Alliance or join the dark side with the Empire in special themed missions, including Hoth Defence (in which the Rebel Alliance team are entrenched and have to hold out against the attacking Empire forces as long as they can), Commander Take-down and Endor Escape.

Booking & more information on: 07470 892307 email ask@rumblelive.co.uk | www.rumblelive.co.uk @rumblerutland

Travers Foundation: Funding for Emerging Young Musicians

The Travers Foundation is a volunteer-run charity that provides financial support to local 13- to 30-year-olds to help them realise their dreams in sports, music, and the arts. They help by nurturing the talent of local teams, groups, and individuals in Rutland, Leicestershire, and Northamptonshire.

The charity has launched Travers Rising Stars 2025, which offers emerging young singers and musicians access to funding for their development and studio recordings, enabling them to gain valuable experience by participating in live events.

‘This marks our fifth year supporting local artists in Leicestershire, Rutland and Northamptonshire, and this year promises to be even bigger and better,’ states Kieran Forsey, Head of Travers Rising Stars. ‘By collaborating with enthusiastic supporters, including vocal coaches, local studio producers and parents, young singers and musicians can submit their plans for 2025 and request funding to support their initiatives. I’m reaching out to potential supporters who work with up-and-coming local singers and musicians and believe that charitable funding could be beneficial. I encourage them to direct these young people to Travers Rising Stars.’

Forsey continues: ‘Once an application is approved, singers and musicians can receive funding for artist development and will have the opportunity to perform at Travers Rising Stars events in Leicestershire, Rutland and Northamptonshire. We have some exciting events lined up for this year, including the Glastonblaby 2025 charity festival in August.’

Singers, musicians, and their supporters must act swiftly, as places are limited. To find out more and apply, visit the Travers Foundation website below.

www.travers-foundation.org.uk | @thetraversfoundation www.traversrisingstars.com

Local briefing

News from the region this month

Elite Construction & Renovation

Founder Chris Foster told us: ‘We are excited to announce the official launch of Elite Construction and Renovation, a new business venture led by longtime friends and industry veterans, myself and Paul Knight. Going live on Tuesday 1 April, this partnership is the culmination of decades of dedication to craftsmanship and excellence in the building industry.’

Chris and Paul have known each other since their school days, and throughout their careers, they have honed their skills in complementary sectors. Chris’s expertise lies in internal finishes, ensuring meticulous attention to detail in every project, while Paul has built a reputation in structural work, spanning both new builds and historic restorations.

‘Our mission is simple: to bring expertise, integrity, and excellence to every project we undertake’

Individually, they have each received industry recognition for their work, a testament to their commitment to quality and innovation. Now, with a combined 70 years of experience, they are joining forces to offer a first-class service – delivering exceptional craftsmanship, tailored solutions and a seamless construction experience.

Chris continues: ‘At Elite Construction and Renovation, our mission is simple: to bring expertise, integrity, and excellence to every project we undertake. We look forward to this new chapter and to building something truly exceptional for our clients’.

For more information, contact Chris Foster & Paul Knight on 01664 823923 / 07903 324055 www.constructionandrenovation.co.uk @constructrenovate

Stamford Cyberwise Campaign

The Stamford Cyberwise Campaign has recently been launched for this academic year, supported by all Stamford primary schools and secondary schools. The aim of the project is to increase parent support within the community and to encourage them to make informed choices when it comes to their children and young people and smartphones.

The campaign has a few stages. At present the cyberwise pledge is live and open for parents to sign up to, encouraging as many as possible to show their support for the suggested guideline.

The team is also running cyberwise sessions for all Year 7 and 8 students this term, which explore how the tech industry drives smartphone addiction; and encourages young people to take control of their usage by taking practical steps.

Parent Support Workshops

In March the Conversation Stamford are running parent support workshops at each primary school:

• Thursday 13 March: St George’s Church Place, Cheyne Lane, 7pm

• Wednesday 19 March: St Gilbert’s C of E, 6pm

• Thursday 20 March 20: Bluecoat, 1.30pm

• Tuesday 25 March: St Augustine’s CVA, 9am

• Wednesday26 March: Stamford Junior School, 6pm

• Thursday 27 March: St George’s, 1.15pm

• Monday 31 March: Malcolm Sargent, 6pm

For more information on The Conversation Stamford, visit www.theconversationstamford.co.uk

To book on the workshops, simply click on the ‘Cyberwise’ tab on the home page or scan this QR code.

@theconversationstamford

THE MARCH WALK

Exton & Rutland Water

This walk has just about everything – quaint villages, a view across the water, a babbling brook and a ‘pleasure house’. Our beloved smallest county at its finest

words: nicholas rudd-jones

POINTS OF INTEREST

• Exton, meaning ‘ox farm’ is mentioned in 1185 as Exton Park –‘a wooded farm, enclosed for hunting deer’. It was Rutland’s largest park, at one time covering 1,500 acres and with a herd of 500 deer. Exton Hall was re-built in the 19th century, and there are many fine estate houses from this era in the village.

The clay dam, built in the early 1970s, is 115 feet high, and around 1,300 yards long. The finished structure has been landscaped to blend in with the environment, even when viewed from Empingham, the nearest village. The River Gwash, which was the river dammed to create Rutland water, re-emerges between the dam and Empingham, just to the right of the path.

• Horn Mill. The Domesday Book (1086) records four mills at this site. Today there is just one (now a private home), with a very impressive mill race.

• Medieval village of Horn. Just south of the Lower Lake on the right is the site of the medieval village of Horn, which had become deserted by the 14th century. Probably the parish fell a victim to the desire at this date to turn arable land into pasture, with the consequent depopulation of the district.

• Fort Henry. This unusual building (‘a pleasure-house of the most refined and elegant late 18th-century Gothick’, as one earlier visitor described it) was built in the 1780s as a boathouse and picnic place. It was designed by William Legg of Stamford, masonry was executed by George Beaver, plasterwork by John Tillson and decoration by Joseph Everard. The craftsmen were also from Stamford. The building was painstakingly restored in 1981. It is now used as a wedding and special occasion venue (to find out more, contact info@extonpark.co.uk).

KEY DATA

Distance 8.4 miles

Typical time 3 hours 45 mins

Start & finish Exton Village Green (LE15 8AP) Terrain Good paths, easy going

PIT STOPS

• The Noel Arms Whitwell Road, Whitwell LE15 8BW, 01572 510137, thenoelatwhitwell.co.uk A quaint pub in a pretty village.

• Barbara’s Village Stores 15 Church Street, Empingham LE15 8PN, 01780 460348. A fantastic little shop with lots of walking goodies, including hot drinks. Open all day in the week, until 12pm at weekends.

• The Fox & Hounds The Green, Exton LE15 8AP, 01572 811032, www.thefoxinexton.co.uk. A beautiful old building on an atmospheric green. Undergoing some refurbishment under new ownership.

DIRECTIONS

1

Park by the village green in Exton. Take the northeast road out of the green, and shortly take a right down Blacksmith’s Lane, swinging left to join the Stamford Road.

2

Turn right at the Stamford Road and follow it until you reach a T-junction; take the bridleway opposite which takes off south towards Whitwell (it’s the Viking Way); you will eventually find yourself arriving on the slope above Whitwell.

3

On reaching the main A606, cross the road with care and turn right along the pavement for a few yards; you will soon see a small, metalled road on the left just after a telephone box (now a defibrillator) that you take, passing the church on your right and then turning left to take you along the road that leads to Whitwell Creek.

4

As you reach the area with the boats and windsurf equipment, turn left and join the main round the water path that will eventually take you through the Sykes Lane car park towards the dam.

5 Just before the dam, take the path sloping down to the left alongside a spinney; this route wends its way into Empingham. When you reach the first small road, turn left, and then cross the main A606 carefully again, passing the White Horse pub.

6

Take the first turning left after this up Exton Road; ignore the first bridleway and take instead the footpath that takes off northeast alongside Warren Spinney; this takes you to Horn Mill.

7

At the road, turn left past Horn Mill and then take the first right into the North Brook valley. Walk up this valley all the way to Fort Henry.

8

On reaching the main (second) lake, turn left along the metalled track, then left at the next fork, to take you back along a metalled track to Exton.

9

On regaining the village, turn right and then next left and you will be back where you began.

ABOVE TOP: Fort Henry. ABOVE BOTTOM: charming cottage in Exton. OPPOSITE: bucolic view across to Rutland Water.

ASK LEO

Blossom Time

March to May sees a succession of blossoming plants. Sue Lee and Jean Orpin have delved into their history and folklore

BLACKTHORN

Prunus spinosa is its botanical name, and it is sometimes called a sloe bush (for the fruit it produces in autumn), but with its dark purple-black bark and vicious thorns, blackthorn describes it perfectly in the winter. For the same reason, it has also been nicknamed the ‘Dark Crone of the Woods’ and associated with dark magic. Witches supposedly use the thorny twigs to make their wands and certainly if one strikes you, you will indeed run the risk of inflammation. On the other hand, blackthorn is also rightly known as the ‘Mother of Woods’, for, at about this time of the year, those stark hedges are the first to give birth and cheer us up by bursting forth with blossom. If you’re driving around the country roads all over our area, the blackthorn buds can initially look like frost because there is not a hint of green leaves as the flowers appear and then very quickly cover the dark branches. As the first hedges of the year to blossom, these flowers provide valuable food for bees and, later, as the blossom begins to fade and the leaves to grow, their protective branches are a haven for the nests of small birds. Although it can grow up to 20ft, blackthorn is normally found in our hedgerows. This is because farmers discovered that it could be managed to keep cattle safely enclosed. Where we see arable fields lined with blackthorn blossoms it may indicate that these were formerly used for pasture.

HAWTHORN

‘Ne’er cast a clout till May be out.’ This old saying refers not to the month of May but to the blossom of hawthorn, another common hedgerow plant, which follows on the heels of blackthorn. Its name simply means ‘thorny hedge plant’, and it too has historically been used to enclose livestock. It is, however, an altogether meeker plant – grey bark, less thorny and associated with merrymaking. Alternative local names are quickthorn or whitethorn, but all agree that this is the bearer of May blossom. Geoffrey Chaucer wrote:

Mark the fair blooming of the Hawthorn Tree, Who, finely clothed in a robe of white, Fills the wanton eye with May’s delight.

On May Day blossoming hawthorn branches were cut at dawn to decorate doors and windows and make entwined garlands and crowns for both the maypole and the May Queen. It was considered a fairy tree, wishes could be made, and it could be adorned with ribbons but to cut it down or to take it inside would bring bad luck. The fragrance of May was believed to be an aphrodisiac, but some find it unpleasant, which is perhaps the real reason why bringing it indoors was discouraged.

LEFT: hawthorn tree & its blossom.

ABOVE: blackthorn buds and thorns. BELOW: blackthorn in blossom.

APPLE BLOSSOM

ABOVE LEFT: apple tree in full blossom.

ABOVE: ‘Barnack Beauty’ by artist Barbara Clemence, commissioned and available from SCOG.

Apple blossom flowers in April and May, crab apples in hedgerows and other varieties in orchards. Insects enjoy the nectar from the blossom and are essential for pollination. Apples were brought to Britain by the Romans and different varieties developed over the years. Many orchards in and around Rutland have been lost, and Kent, once famous for its apple orchards, has lost 92% in 60 years. Supermarkets choose to import a limited number of varieties from abroad instead of the 2,000 homegrown varieties.

Recently there has been a revival of small orchards, many locally following the example and advice of Stamford Community Orchard Group (SCOG), which was set up to promote local apples over 15 years ago. This year they are holding an Easter Blossom picnic on Sunday 4 May. For more information about the group, email SCOG@gmail.com

ABOVE: pink & white cherry blossom in full bloom.

CHERRY BLOSSOM

Cherry trees were also introduced to England by the Romans and then grown in monasteries. In 1533 Henry VIII sent his Fruiterer to France to bring back fruit varieties to plant in his garden. Nobles planted them in their castles. Place names often indicate where cherry orchards were in the past, for example, in Stamford and Bourne, there are Cherry Holt roads, and Cherry Hinton is a suburb of Cambridge. In Northamptonshire there is a pub called The Cherry Tree on Cherry Tree Lane, Great Houghton.

Japanese Taihaku Blossoms

In 1853 Japan opened to Western visitors, who discovered that cherry gardens had been planted there since the 17th century with 10 native species. Collingwood Ingram was born in 1880 and lived in Kent. He was a keen ornithologist and bird artist. He bought The Grange at Benenden from the Harmsworths, owners of the Daily Mail. In the garden were two unusual cherry trees. He changed from being interested in birds to cherry trees introducing 50 varieties. In 1926 he was invited to Japan to give a lecture to the Sakurakai (Cherry Society). Whilst there he was shown an 18th-century picture of a large, white cherry tree called Taihaku that had become extinct. He recognised it as the same blossom on a cherry which had been imported to his Sussex garden in 1899. He was able to take cuttings and reintroduce the lost Taihaku to Japan in 1932. All of the Taihaku in cultivation today are offspring of that cherry tree in Sussex. The Taihaku Cherry Blossom is known as ‘Great White’ for its snow like clusters of long blooms. In autumn the leaves turn a beautiful coppery colour.

Cherry Blossom Today

In Japan, cherry blossom represents the fragility of life. Soldiers in World War II were told it was an honour to fall like the petals on a cherry tree, but now the petals are symbols of peace. The Japanese gather under the trees during the short time they are blossoming. Flowering time is affected by global warming due to shorter winters. In 2021 the earliest bloom date in 1,200 years was recorded. Cherry trees are very popular in England, mainly due to their pink or white blossom, and Cherry Blossom Festivals are now held elsewhere too. In Vancouver, Canada, one was founded to commemorate the 800 trees given by Japan in 2005. Now the city has 40,000. The Cherry Orchard at The Alnwick Garden has the largest collection of ‘Taihaku’ in the world, comprising 329 trees. They all bloom together for up to two weeks around the end of April/beginning of May.

BLOSSOMISE

by Simon Armitage

If you enjoy poetry, try ‘Blossomise’ (Faber & Faber/NT, £10), a collection of blossominspired poems and haikus by Poet Laureate Simon Armitage, with illustrations by local artist Angela Harding. An age-old subject is given new perspectives in a collection with change and transformation at its heart. These works explore how blossom can bring a sense of hope to an increasingly urbanised world.

ELDERFLOWER

Beware if you are collecting elderflowers – the Elder Mother lives in the tree and will avenge any damage. But plant it near your house to keep the devil away, and if you stand in its shade at midnight, you might see the King of Elves. Elderflowers are the last of the spring blossoms, with bunches of cream flowers appearing late May and June. Most often found in hedgerows and scrubland, it can be cultivated in the garden, although you will need to risk the ire of the Elder Mother by cutting it back hard.

Elderflower cordial is easily made at home or found on the supermarket shelves and can be used as a drink or a flavouring. The florets can be battered and fried or used medicinally, as in the old recipe for a hand salve in the box below. A cautionary note, however – collect away from roads because Mother Elder doesn’t protect from traffic pollution.

RIGHT: elderflower blossom.

TRADITIONAL BLOSSOM RECIPES

Join us in trying these old blossom recipes this spring.

Hawthorn Brandy

Gather sufficient hawthorn flowers (without leaves) to fill up a jar, then add brandy. Leave in a warm place for one month. Strain off the liquid through fine muslin and bottle at once. Cork well. It can be used at once.

Elderflower Hand Salve

Simmer one pound of elderflowers in half a pound of lard until it turns pale green. Strain it through muslin into pots. This salve is cleansing, healing and softening. It is particularly useful for gardeners.

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Would

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We

No

Paul Mannion

This month Steve Roberts introduces us to multi-talented musician Paul Mannion

ICAUGHT UP with Paul Mannion before Christmas, when he was giving an impromptu concert at The Noel at Whitwell. It is obvious that, despite his relaxed demeanour, London West End and international success, Paul is driven both by his music and the need to perform. That same day he was off to the monthly Open Mic Night at The Grainstore Brewery in Oakham as he had been told it was a great venue to play – it is certainly a smashing spot for us audience members.

Paul’s own musical taste is pretty wide, and when I saw him he performed, amongst other songs, George Harrison’s Here Comes The Sun (more of that later), Queen’s Crazy Little Thing Called Love, Please Please Let Me Get What I Want by The Smiths, America by Simon and Garfunkel, and a couple of his own songs, including California. He has an easy style, and it was nice to witness someone so comfortable in his skin whilst performing,

Although these days he splits his time between Rutland and London, Paul is originally from Liverpool and, perhaps unsurprisingly, has a rich theatre background inspired by The Beatles. He has played George Harrison on stage in both the Royal Court Liverpool’s production of Lennon and in the jukebox musical Let it Be in the West End and on a worldwide tour. He can be seen and heard singing Here Comes The Sun on broadwayworld.com which previewed Let It Be ahead of its run at London’s Garrick Theatre. Talking of touring, Paul has also supported in his own right two major artists: Blondie and Elvis Costello.

Paul is a regular session musician for top names such as Coldplay’s producer Ken Nelson and has been a pit musician/composer and actor for (to date) over 20 musicals across the UK. He writes and records music for his brother Greg’s meditation initiative, called ‘Infinite Breath’ and is hoping to start a music therapy charity for mental health issues.

These days he is devoting a lot of time to writing his own musical, Dust and Sand, based on the lives of his Irish great-grandparents and another relative, the legendary Irish fiddler Michael Coleman (1891–1945), who, although he emigrated to the USA as a young man, has a monument near his birthplace in Sligo naming him the ‘Saviour of Irish Traditional Music’. A musical comedy about his experiences working in London’s West End, called Westenders,

is also in the pipeline. He is also spending hours finessing his own new songs and music and developing an original project with Jennie Bellestar from 1980s’ pop sensation The Bellestars.

As if all that were not enough, Paul is half of the rock, pop and jazz duo The Word, with Simon Lawrence, which seems to have played everywhere from Whitwell to Walthamstow. So, like many talented musicians and artists, Paul keeps as many irons in the fire as possible, but I am sure he will always find plenty of time for what I take to be his first love – performing.

Paul will doubtless be fetching up at local venues throughout the rest of 2025 with a guitar over his shoulder and a pocket full of tunes. It will be fun to catch up with him again.

to book paul mannion, email manonions@hotmail.com

details of the word can be found at oakham’s hidden gems events on facebook. paul’s own songs can be found on youtube music, spotify & apple music.

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