Burnley Lifestyle 26

SELF-CARE

Cover Image

Andy Ford andyford@mac.com

Katie McGee Editor

If you have a local lifestyle story you think would be of interest to our readers contact kmcgee@burnley.gov.uk

Photography

Lead Magazine Photographer: Andy Ford - andyford@mac.com

Cody Bamford Photography @codybamfordphotography

Millie Chung

Acknowledgements

Rachel Bayley

Luke Pollard

Kelly Smith

Kim Greaves

Zainab Bhatti

The Barley Mow

The Lawrence Hotel

Burnley Leisure & Culture

Burnley Film Studio

Netflix

Bertram’s Restaurant

Welcome to our spring/summer issue of Burnley Lifestyle. It’s been a jam-packed six months since the last issue so in this edition we’ve included a roundup of some of the things you might have missed! There’s also a list of dates for your diary with some amazing events coming up over the next few months.

Our cover feature is The Nest Farm School, run by the formidable Georgie Mitchell. It was great to spend some time with Georgie, her daughters Peggy and Dolly and of course the menagerie of animals at the farm school. Georgie and her family have created a warm and welcoming environment which she describes as a place of ‘happiness and good vibes’. Find out how she’s achieved this on page 41.

Burnley is clearly the place to be for strong, female entrepreneurs as in addition to Georgie we have Ainsley and Caroline, the friends who have joined forces to run resilience retreats and Lianne who has set up Basically Cheer Community Interest Company. We also feature Lisa who has opened Muddy Boots and Puddle Ducks tearoom – we defy you to look at the photos of the delicious food and not immediately want to pay them a visit!

It’s been great to see new businesses like Muddy Boots opening across the borough. Two more new venues featured in this issue are Real Food Hall, which is also home to Vault Cinemas, and Picture Me Rollin’ roller skating venue. Both are adding something new to our town centre and we hope you give them a visit.

Food plays a big part in this issue – we’ve got an exclusive interview with MasterChef the Professionals finalist George ‘Burnley’ Birtwell, who flew the flag for his birthplace throughout the competition. We’ve also got an American’s take on the best places to eat with recommendations from Ashlyn Pace. Ashlyn met her husband Joe on her first trip to Burnley and inspired by this we’ve interviewed two more couples who moved here for love.

With (hopefully) warmer months upon us it’s a great time to get out and about. And what better way to enjoy nature than with a spot of Park Yoga. We spoke to yoga teacher Dr Shine Babu about this popular hobby and just how beneficial it is, even for those who are new to yoga.

If taking time for yourself is something you’d like to take more seriously, then we’ve got some easy and affordable tips for how you can do just this. From bargain beauty treatments at Burnley College, to art classes to help unleash your creativity and exercises you can try at home - there’s no excuse for not having a spot of ‘me time’. In fact, reading this magazine is the perfect way to start, so pop the kettle on and happy relaxing!

To find out more about advertising in the magazine email kmcgee@burnley.gov.uk

Design Advertising

creative-council.net

Don’t forget we love to hear from you so do head to page 67 to complete the feedback form, we’ve got some fantastic prizes on offer thanks to Burnley Leisure and Culture, The Lawrence Hotel and Bertram’s Restaurant. You can also send your ideas for future issue to kmcgee@burnley.gov.uk

- Editor -

Dates in the diary

From playground to purpose

Self-care that won’t break the bank

Park Yoga

Fitness for all

Support the young people in your life

Unleash creativity to unlock positive wellbeing

Discover the magic of The Nest Farm School

Retro roller revolution

Spreading community cheer

Towneley trivia and activities

The perfect love match

Feedback and win

Real Food Hall and Vault Cinemas

The Barley Mow

Bertram’s Restaurant gets the star treatment

We came here for love

Cockers Sports

From setbacks to success

Friends of Ightenhill Park

Time for tea?

Edwards Farm Butchers

Hollywood returns to Burnley

Earlier this year Burnley's REEL Cinema at Pioneer Place hosted the world premiere of Bank of Dave 2: The Loan Ranger, the sequel to the 2023 Netflix hit. And even a weekend of snow couldn’t stop Dave Fishwick, the man who inspired the movie, attending as he arrived in one of his minibuses with shovel in hand!

Dave was joined by wife Nicky and stars of the film Rory Kinnear, Jo Hartley and Amit Shah who braved

the cold to walk the red carpet, alongside the film’s writer Piers Ashworth and director Chris Foggin.

Before the screening of the film, guests were treated to burgers from young entrepreneur Harry Dobson who was able to set up his business Sabden Smash thanks to a loan from Dave’s community bank. And ensuring nobody went home hungry Burnley-based Haffner’s handed out Bene’n’hotpot and cheese

and onion pies as guests departed.

One of Dave’s requirements before agreeing to the sequel was that more local locations were used so keep an eye out in the film for familiar places such as Turf Moor, Continentals and an appearance from Def Leppard in the building that was previously The Talbot pub.

Bank of Dave 2: The Loan Ranger is available to watch now on Netflix.

Towneley Hall volunteering opportunities

Towneley Hall is actively seeking enthusiastic volunteers to join their team, ready for the re-opening of the hall after its fantastic restoration. Towneley Hall volunteers ensure a warm and engaging welcome for all visitors, sharing insights about the Hall, its stories, collections and exhibitions.

If you have a passion for culture, heritage, and local history, and enjoy talking with the public then this is your opportunity to get involved at a very

exciting time. It is a great opportunity to meet like-minded individuals, make new friends and become part of a vibrant volunteer team with full support and training given in the run up to the hall re-opening. Working in such a beautiful building within the Towneley parkland setting is wonderful for wellbeing, and a great opportunity to gain valuable experience in the museum and heritage sector.

Volunteers are needed for the main

hall and the Museum of Local Crafts & Industries situated at the rear of the hall, which features a fantastic collection of industrial heritage artefacts.

If you’re interested and would like to find out more, please contact Towneley Hall Volunteer Coordinator, George Martin - gmartin@burnely.gov.uk or look out for information on social media and towneley.org.uk about opportunities to meet the team.

Plans to reroof 420-year-old historic barn at Gawthorpe Hall have been revealed

The National Trust has been granted Listed Building Consent by Burnley Council to reroof the 420-year-old Grade I listed Great Barn at Gawthorpe Hall.

Originally built as a high-status building for agricultural storage, the 100foot long Great Barn is a rare survivor of a type of building uncommon in Lancashire. It is of national importance as an historic building, in part due to the roof still having elements that date back to its construction in 1605. The roof has received a number of temporary repairs over the years, but major works are now needed to secure the long-term future of the building.

The project will see investment of over £1.2m to reroof the Great Barn, coach house and toilet block at the National Trust site. The roof and timber rafters will be repaired using heritage craft skills in order to stop rainwater leaking through the structure

The Great Barn at Gawthorpe Hall has been used for a variety of different things over its 420-year history, from a space for agricultural storage to an indoor training facility for Burnley Football Club. The National Trust acquired the

barn in 1980 and more recently the space has been used to host exhibitions and events before closing to the public in 2008. Securing the long-term future of the barn’s roof will allow the space to be opened to visitors once again.

Dan Taylor, National Trust general manager says, “As a conservation charity we want to look after historic places for future generations to enjoy. This project will allow us to secure the future of a 420-year-old Grade I listed building in the heart of Padiham. We’re excited to work with the local community and partners to shape how the Great Barn is used in the future.”

The conservation project will also protect the resident colony of brown long-eared and pipistrelle bats that breed and hibernate in the barn each year. The National Trust are working with ecologists to develop mitigation plans for the duration of the works, and to develop a plan for how the space can be used by visitors in the future without impacting the bats.

The project is 85% funded thanks to a generous legacy and a grant from the Wolfson Foundation. The charity is

actively seeking further support from local donors and funders to secure the final funds needed to make their conservation plans a reality and unlock the Great Barn’s potential as a community resource.

During the construction, the Trust is aiming to host a range of activities and events for the local community. The ambition is that the project will offer a chance for the local building and conservation community to develop their knowledge and experience with heritage skills.

Kirsten Warren, the National Trust’s assistant director of operations for the North West says, “This new investment highlights our commitment to Gawthorpe Hall. The project can kickstart the development of a new long-term vision for the site. In the coming years, we want to enhance the experience that the visitors and the local community receive across Gawthorpe.”

Work is expected to start in autumn once funding is secured. To donate or find out more information about the National Trust’s visit their website at nationaltrust. org.uk/gawthorpe-great-barn.

©National Trust Images - Matthew Antrobus

Burnley’s best businesses for customer service revealed

Burnley’s top ranking shops, restaurants and bars, service providers, local organisations and businesses have been revealed at the town’s second Customer Service Excellence Awards.

Hosted by Burnley Business Improvement District (BID) and supported by key sponsors Charter Walk Shopping Centre, Anchor Group Services, ONBRAND4U, and Castlegate Security Services, the event highlighted the exceptional efforts of staff members, retailers, businesses, organisations, service providers and hospitality venues, in delivering top-tier customer experiences across the town.

Conducted by respected industry market research experts, Storecheckers, over 90 stores, restaurants, organisations and business providers in Burnley town centre received ‘mystery shop’ visits last year, which were followed by insights from a panel of professional judges and a public vote to determine this year’s winners across nine competitive categories.

Themed Burnley BID’s Blooming Brilliant Customer Service Excellence Awards, the winners of each category

were announced at a glittering award ceremony at Burnley’s Mechanics Theatre earlier this year. Full list of winners: Best Licensed Premise (Bar Mojitos), Best National Retailer (Next), Best Independent Retailer (Florist Lancashire), Best Service Provider (TUI), Best Food Business (The Palazzo), Employee of the Year (Jamie Ninnis at The Perfume Shop), Burnley Town Centre Ambassador (Sweet William Florist), Best Business Overall (Skipton Building Society), Best Long-Serving Business (Haffners Pies & Butchery)

Burnley BID Project Manager, Laura Diffey, said: “This was a fantastic celebration of Burnley’s incredible businesses, organisation and the passionate individuals behind them. The atmosphere was brilliant, and it was wonderful to see so many people come together to recognise the dedication and hard work that goes into delivering outstanding customer service in our town. These awards truly highlight why Burnley is such a special place to shop, dine and visit.”

Jamie Ninnis from The Perfume Shop

and winner of Employee of the Year Award said: “I couldn’t be more thankful to the manager of The Perfume Shop, Danielle, who nominated me. I always try and put 110% in and I love working with customers. I absolutely love my job!”

Avril Duckworth, Manager at Althams which won the Commitment to Burnley said: “We’re so happy to win this award. The business has been going since 1874 and we’re all really proud to work there. Between the team we’ve got hundreds of years of travel expertise and we always try and go above and beyond. Burnley is really blooming right now and we’re proud to be a part of its history and its future.”

Imran Najeeb, Manager at Skipton Building Society which won Best Business Overall said: “We pride ourselves on our customer service and I’m really proud of the team. A big thank you to all our members as well – that’s why we do this.”

Burnley BID represents town centre businesses and organisations including retail, hospitality and service providers.

A lot has been happening

Thereʼs been a lot going on in Burnley since the last issue of the magazine. Hereʼs a roundup of a just a few of the exciting developments.

It's a great time to be an artist in Burnley!

123 is a new artist run space right in the centre of town and is the flagship project of Creative Spaces Burnley. The whole building has been painstakingly restored, including all the original stained-glass windows, through a partnership between Creative Spaces, Burnley Council and Historic England. Keep an eye out for events and exhibitions running throughout the year. You can find them at 123 - 125 St James's Street, Burnley, BB11 1PP.

Taco Bell arrived at Pioneer Place

The Mexican inspired restaurant signed up to become the final tenant in the £23m Pioneer Place cinema and leisure complex. Visit Pioneer Place on Curzon Street Burnley.

Welcome The Winter Lotus Brew House

Opened by Lucas Winter and Curtis Cantrill the venue offers coffee and tea from all over the world, food and afternoon teas. They also serve wines, spirits, cocktails and IPAs.Find them in the former Cross Keys Hotel at 170 St James's Street, Burnley.

The Coffee House opened its doors

The independent coffee shop has opened on Fleet Walk in Charter Walk Shopping Centre and promises freshly roasted coffee and handmade food.

Royal recognition

Two of our local voluntary groups - Padiham on Parade and Building Bridges, received the King’s Award for Voluntary Service. A huge congratulations to all involved.

©Kelvin Lister-Stuttard

Celebs descended on Crow Wood

Press, celebs and influencers descended on Burnley for an event at the newly refurbished Woodland Spa.

JD Sports relocation & expansion

JD Sports has signed a 10year lease to open a larger premises in Charter Walk Shopping Centre in Burnley.

Starbucks

The new store, located in the same retail park as TK Maxx, also has a drive-thru as well as the ability to order ahead on your phone and pick up from inside.

Bobo Panda bursts into Burnley town centre

The bubble tea shop can be found at 8 Howe Walk, Charter Walk Shopping Centre, Burnley BB11 1QB.

Local radio returned

We got not one but two local radio stations with Radio –Burnley College launching at the end of February and Radio Burnley hitting the airwaves in March. You can listen to both stations on DAB whilst you can also find Radio Burnley by downloading the app or through radioburnley.com

A newly refurbished shop popped up in Padiham. Available on a three month lease the shop is perfect for aspiring entrepreneurs. The flexible ‘Easy In, Easy Out’ terms make it simple for businesses to get started, offering affordable weekly rent of £80, inclusive of utilities, rates, and insurance. Email: Hywel.lebbon@ liberata.com or Jennifer. rawsthorne@liberata.com for more information.

The restoration work on the historic building is completed following a programme of work that started in October 2022.

Newtown Mill

The £15m redevelopment of the former Newtown Mill, located on Queen’s Lancashire Way was completed, bringing the historic building back to life.

Towneley Hall

Dates in the Diary...

Burnley Words Festival

– 16 - 18 May

A programme of activities for all ages – keep an eye on facebook.com/ BurnleyWordsFestival and burnleywordsfestival.co.uk for more information.

Painting Padiham

Bike Challenge – Sunday 8 June

– Satuday 17 May Brun Valley 10k – Sunday 6 April

The popular Brun Valley Trail 10k is back for its sixth year! This 10k trail race follows clear but varied paths and trails. Starting and finishing in Thompson Park, the route heads out through Netherwood, taking in Rowley Lake and the trails of the picturesque Brun Valley Forest Park. Sign up at blcgroup. co.uk/activity/brunvalley-trail-10k-race

Burnley Live returns

– 3 & 4 May

The live music event will see performances from local singers and bands across a range of town centre venues. Keep an eye on the Discover Burnley social media channels for more information.

Park Yoga

Artists trail and a variety of free family activities.

BIG Burnley Walk

– Sunday 18 May

Pendle Panthers and Cycle Sport Pendle will be hosting the event from Towneley Park, Burnley, offering you the chance to tackle one of three routes. More information from pendleside.org.uk/mountainbike-challenge-2025

– every Sunday from 5 May - 15 September Burnley College Science & Technology Festival – Saturday 28 June

9.30am – 10.30am at Queen's Park.

Beat the Street returns

– Wednesday 14 May

Beat the Street is a fun and healthy way to explore your local area and compete with others. Pick up a card, tap Beat Boxes and earn points, prizes and awards. Find out more online beatthestreet.me

After the success of previous two years, new routes have been created to connect people and communities across Burnley, with a wander through the town's wonderful green and blue spaces. This year we will be starting and finishing in Towneley park, with family friendly and challenging routes available. Keep your eyes peeled on the OutdoorTown Facebook page for more information.

Burnley College Science and Technology Festival - FREE family fun, science spectacles and technological thrills.

Padiham on Parade

– 28 & 29 June

A fun 1940's themed weekend for everyone to enjoy.

Dyche

Fest – 25, 26 & 27 July

The Royal Dyche is back with its annual music festival which this year has been renamed DycheFest. Pop down to the free event where there’ll be live bands, food and a chance to help raise money for Pendleside Hospice. Visit the Royal Dyche at: 45-47 Yorkshire Street, Burnley.

The Great Pendleside Trek – Saturday, 6 September

Starting at Pendleside Hospice this is a 35-mile endurance challenge, which takes in the beautiful Burnley and Pendle landscapes and helps raises money for Pendleside Hospice. Determination and good physical fitness are required. Keep an eye out on Pendleside’s social media channels for more information.

Running on select Sunday's throughout the year from 10am – 2pm. Keep an eye on facebook.com/ padihamtowncentre for more information.

Burnley Artisan Market

Taking place on the first Saturday of each month from 10am – 4pm, the market celebrates makers and artisans from across Lancashire and features 80 small independent businesses.

Downtown coffeee & chat – every Thursday

11am-12noon. Drop in for a free hot drink and a chat.

Park Run & Jnr Park Run – every weekend

Bill the Bear's Birthday Bash at Towneley Hall – May half term

Look out for information on social media and towneley.org.uk

Makers, Bakers & Creators Market -

19 Apr, 17 May, 21 June, 19 July, 16 Aug, 20 Sep, 18 Oct & 15 Nov.

Record Fairs26 Apr, 28 June, 30 Aug, 25 Oct & 27 Dec.

A free, fun, and friendly weekly community event at Towneley Park. Walk, jog, run, volunteer or spectate – it's up to you! Every Saturday at 9am. Junior Parkrun for 4-14yrs Sundays at 9am.

Weekly event to make friends, have fun and move more for FREE every Saturday morning. Facebook. com/ParkPlayBurnley

A jam packed day of activities and events at Towneley Park, celebrating all the wonderful ways we can connect with our outdoor spaces.

Play Nature Festival – Sunday 5th Oct Email: Katie - kmcgee@burnley.gov.uk

FROM PLAYGROUND TO PURPOSE:

THE TWO CHILDHOOD FRIENDS WHO HAVE BUILT A BUSINESS ON RESILIENCE

Ainsley Harris and Caroline Dakin have been friends since they met at nursery in Rosehill, Burnley. They went through infants, juniors and eventually what was Habergham High School together. So, almost (but not quite!) 40 years later as friends, it’s fair to say they’ve seen many of life’s highs and lows together.

It therefore seems a worthwhile business idea that together, they’ve established The Resilience Retreat, a wellbeing and corporate retreat that strives to take employees “from stressed to refreshed.” But before we fast forward to this thriving business, which works with several top-tier organisations, particularly in IT, let’s rewind a few years to how Ainsley and Caroline separately developed their own resilience.

Ainsley came back to the borough after university to live with her future husband James, who worked for his family business at Harris Moss Estate Agents. She then became a PE teacher in Pendle, a career she built over 14 years. Alongside this she pursued her passion for teaching yoga, with her first classes held at Crow Wood. It was when she turned 40, with three

young children, that she realised she had given her all to education and wanted to pursue her creative side still helping others but working for herself.

“Whilst I loved my career as a teacher and inspiring young people, I was exhausted, stressed and not the present wife and mum I wanted to be. Yoga and breathwork had really helped me work through my stress. My yoga classes expanded into Trawden Community Centre and Giggleswick School, and I grew in confidence that I could go into this full time,” Ainsley told Burnley Lifestyle.

“I hired a space of my own in Downham Village Hall, before eventually finding a permanent home in Clitheroe; and the Three Breaths studio was born.”

From the studio, Ainsley teaches Reformer Pilates and yoga. The studio has grown organically and now has a passionate team of teachers delivering classes seven days a week. It’s a boutique studio, so classes are small and can be tailored to individual needs. Sound therapy is growing in popularity and the studio hosts regular wellbeing events incorporating sound meditations, yoga and Pilates.

Ainsley explained: “If you’re feeling burnt out, overwhelmed, and in a constant fight or flight mode, sound therapy really helps you work through those

feelings and helps to reduce the cortisol that is surging through your body. You simply lie down snuggled under a blanket and let the resonance and vibrations from the gongs, bowls and chimes wash over you. It’s great for people who find it hard to mediate or switch off.”

It was now time to learn about Caroline’s journey and how she came to go into business with her childhood friend.

“I began my career working in HR at Burnley Council, which is where I met my husband Jonny – actually, it was our second meeting, with us having been born ten minutes apart at Burnley General Hospital and spending our first few days together on the maternity ward!

“I had a lengthy corporate career before setting up my training business, having found my passion for learning and development when working for property firm Bruntwood in Manchester. It was there that I first started delivering workshops on stress management and resilience. After moving on from Bruntwood, I worked as a national leadership development trainer for the insurance firm Swinton, travelling up and down the country helping groups of leaders manage performance and engage their teams. I loved the autonomy that that job gave me and ten years ago made the big decision to set up my own training business, Caroline Dakin Associates.”

40…

a milestone in more ways than one

SO, AFTER SEVERAL TWISTS AND TURNS, AINSLEY AND CAROLINE EACH HAD THRIVING BUSINESSES OF THEIR OWN – SO HOW DID THEY END UP SETTING UP ANOTHER ONE TOGETHER?

Ainsley picks the story back up: “Our Habergham High School friendship group has remained close and we were all hitting 40 at the same time. As I mentioned, this was a turning point for me. We’d been saving £30 a month for three years as a group so we could go on an incredible husband and child-free, all-inclusive week. We realised it was the first time we’d ever had time like that to ourselves and how rejuvenating it was.

“The seed was planted that we should recreate this on a smaller scale in the UK; Caroline and I complement one another as she focuses on the mind and I focus on the body, so when it comes to resilience and wellbeing, it’s an East meets West approach.”

Caroline added: “A lot of Ainsley’s clients run their own businesses, and I have tonnes of corporate contacts from my training business. It seemed a natural fit to offer resilience retreats for business owners and their employees. We have clients such as CISCO, Dell and HP who use The Resilience Retreat, and it’s great that they’re willing to invest into their workforce in this way, as at the end of the day, you need happy employees.”

When people go on a retreat, they are taught yoga, breathwork, attend workshops on managing stress, undergo psychometric tests, cold water therapy and other team bonding initiatives.

Ainsley and Caroline are also proud that their retreats are tailored to the needs of the individual and, of course, if someone doesn’t feel comfortable with a particular activity, they can choose to do something else. Due to the rise of workplace stress, Caroline and Ainsley will be bringing their retreats directly to workplaces in 2025 and have developed an accessible half-day version of their retreat. Caroline explained “many organisations wanted a retreat that they could offer at scale and our residential retreats didn’t offer them that. We have developed a product that we take into businesses to improve the wellbeing of staff and reduce workplace stress. Our ‘mini retreat’ is a yoga session specifically designed for people who sit at a desk all day, a relaxing and soothing sound therapy session and a stress busting resilience workshop designed to help employees deal with the challenges that life can bring”.

The retreats truly sound amazing and we hope to see them make their way into Burnley soon. But for those of us who are feeling in need of some wellbeing input outside of a retreat, what do Ainsley and Caroline recommend?

DO A BRAIN DUMP

(5) (2) (3) (4) (1)

If you’re someone who wakes regularly at night, it’s your brain trying to be helpful and provide a nudge on certain tasks. To try and prevent this happening so you get a good night’s sleep, do a brain dump into a journal a few minutes before bed, so your brain can be assured there’s a plan and doesn’t need to wake you.

PRACTISE GRATITUDE

We live in a negative bias where negative emotions stick, and positive ones can deflect. Think of three things you’re grateful for every day and write them down or say it out loud. This helps condition the brain to realise what we have, rather than what we don’t have.

HAVE LONG-TERM GOALS

Long-term goals fuel resilience in the now, as it can be hard to see light at the end of the tunnel during difficult times. People with long-term goals often have more resilience as they can weather the storms.

TOP FIVE TIPS: To build resilience -

GET OUTSIDE FOR DAILY MOVEMENT

If you are able to do so, go outside and move every day, ideally earlier in the day if possible.

Our circadian rhythm needs early daylight to function normally and we need the oxygen from getting outside; all of these help with wellbeing and our sleep cycle.

BREATHWORK – TO STIMULATE THE VAGUS

The Vagus nerve is responsible for triggering the parasympathetic nervous system. Our rest and digest state rather than fight or flight.

Consciously connecting to our breath is one of the most powerful tools we have to hack the nervous system. It’s totally free, accessible to everyone and we breathe anyway so why not use your breath to calm your nervous system?

NERVE

Breathwork is a major feature in all of our retreats because of its huge impact. It’s a tool that participants find easy to continue at home and work so is a great investment for organisations. Next time you’re feeling stressed or struggling to sleep give this a go.

& breathe -

EXTENDED EXHALE BREATHING (4-7-8 technique)

This technique emphasizes a long exhale, which directly engages the Vagus nerve and enhances relaxation.

HOW TO PRACTICE:

1. Sit in a quiet, comfortable space, close your eyes if it feels right.

2. Inhale through your nose for a count of four.

3. Hold your breath for a count of seven.

4. Exhale slowly and completely through your mouth for a count of eight.

5. Repeat this cycle for 4–8 rounds.

WHY IT WORKS:

The extended exhale increases vagal tone by stimulating the nerve endings in the diaphragm and slowing the heart rate. This technique is particularly effective for managing anxiety and promoting sleep.

DIAPHRAGMATIC (BELLY) BREATHING

This classic technique is a cornerstone of Vagus nerve stimulation and often incorporated into yoga classes.

HOW TO PRACTICE:

1. Sit or lie down in a comfortable position.

2. Place one hand on your chest and the other on your abdomen, just below the rib cage.

3. Inhale deeply through your nose, sending the breath into your belly so your abdomen rises (your chest should remain still).

4. Exhale slowly through your mouth, feeling your abdomen fall.

5. Repeat for 5–10 minutes, focusing on the slow, gentle movement of your breath.

WHY IT WORKS:

This practice slows your breathing and increases oxygen exchange, signalling the Vagus nerve to induce a calming parasympathetic state. Rest and digest.

You can find out more about The Resilience Retreat at theresilienceretreat.co.uk

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SELF-CARE THAT WON’ T B R EAK THE BAN K...

Burnley College has introduced an exciting new beauty provision, making premium beauty treatments more affordable to the whole community. With its brandnew, state-of-the-art beauty salon now open, the college offers a range of professional services at unbeatable prices, all delivered by passionate and skilled students.

This year marks a significant milestone for Burnley College as its beauty courses make their debut, supported by cuttingedge facilities added to the campus. This is the first time these courses have been offered in its Sixth Form Centre, providing learners with hands-on, industryrelevant experience while simultaneously meeting the needs of local people.

The salon has been designed to deliver high-quality beauty treatments in a professional atmosphere. From nail care to skin treatments, all services are performed by Level 1 and Level 2 students under the expert supervision of highly experienced tutors.

Beauty students gain a distinctive edge through the college’s robust industry connections, providing them with opportunities that go far beyond the classroom. Collaborations with prominent beauty brands like Nouveau and Dermalogica alongside leading professionals create an immersive learning environment where students work

with premium products and tools, ensuring they’re exposed to the standards of the industry.

Workshops and masterclasses, led by figures such as renowned advanced aesthetician William Foley, offer first hand insights into cutting-edge trends and techniques, enriching students’ expertise. These real-world experiences fuse technical proficiency with professional confidence, equipping learners to excel in a fiercely competitive job market. By the time they complete their courses, Burnley College beauty students achieve their qualifications armed with the skills, knowledge and industry exposure that truly set them apart.

Burnley College principal Karen Buchanan said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for our students to showcase their skills and gain valuable, real-world experience.

“The sector is growing and there are top-class locations right on our doorstep such as Crow Wood; giving the learners the very best, inspirational environment in which to learn and ensuring that industry experts are regular visitors to pass on their wealth of knowledge and experience while motivating them to be the very best.”

Burnley College’s commitment to wellbeing and education shines through this initiative. By offering affordable treatments, the college not only enriches the learning experience for its students but also cultivates a focus on wellness.

Affordable luxury for everyone

From indulgent facials to perfectly polished nails, here’s a taste of what’s on offer at Burnley College’s beauty salon:

• Luxury manicure for £10 - Includes nail shaping, cuticle care, exfoliation, a heat treatment and a polish of your choice.

• Manicure and pedicure package for £15The complete nail care solution that’ll leave your hands and feet looking flawless.

• Dermalogica ProSkin 60 Facial - Using professionalgrade ingredients, this deeply nourishing treatment is perfect for glowing, hydrated skin.

• Wax treatments starting at just £2 - Including options such as lip and chin waxes (£2 each) and underarm waxes for £4. Each treatment is accompanied by detailed preappointment health and safety steps to ensure clients feel confident and cared for during their visit.

Students work with clients, honing their skills, adapting techniques and learning to deliver high-quality results in a professional setting.

Olivia Hirst, Level 2 Diploma in Beauty Therapy, said: “I’ve always been passionate about beauty, but practising on clients has completely transformed my confidence.”

Avril Pilling, Level 2 Adult Learner, said: “The hands-on experience is amazing and it’s such a great feeling to know you’re helping someone feel good about themselves.”

Daisy Elliott, Level 2 Beauty Apprentice, said: “The best part is seeing people leave with a smile on their face. The new salon is such a professional space. It feels like a real job and I feel ready to take my skills into the industry.”

The students aren’t the only ones making the most of the new salon - client feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with many remarking on the exceptional level of service provided at such affordable prices. Burnley College’s is making wellness accessible for all, meaning indulging in self-care doesn’t need to be extravagant. When you book one of their treatments, you’re not just investing in yourself - you’re investing in a student’s future while supporting the next generation of beauty professionals.

Book your treatments now: burnley.ac.uk/beauty

JUST ADD WATER FOR THE PERFECT RECIPE FOR FUN AND FITNESS!

We are big believers in fun and fitness going together – especially when everyone, and we mean everyone, can get involved.

One of the best ways of combining the two is swimming and all the other types of exercises and activities you can do in the pools at our St Peter’s and Padiham centres.

TAKE THE PLUNGE TO BETTER HEALTH

Research by Swim England, swimming’s governing body, found that taking the plunge is perfect for people of all ages, abilities, and fitness levels.

It’s especially good for those with injuries, impairments, long term health conditions, or those who struggle to exercise on land.

A Swim England report, The Health and Wellbeing Benefits of Swimming, found evidence that:

• Swimmers generally live longer.

• Regular swimming helps older people stay mentally and physically fit.

• Participating in swimming lessons can help children to develop physical, cognitive and social skills quicker.

Swimming has a positive impact on a range of physical and mental health conditions including obesity, cancer, cerebral palsy and pulmonary disease.

ENJOY THE BENEFITS WITH BLC

So, now we’ve established the advantages, let’s look at how you can benefit from this excellent form of exercise with BLC.

Our pools are open seven days a week and our swimming timetable includes adults-, men- and women-only swimming sessions along with many other ways of enjoying water-based fun and fitness.

Aqualite is our water-based resistance training class - a fun, energising low impact workout to help you reach your fitness goals. Available at St Peter’s Leisure Centre, it’s ideal for pre- and post-natal women and health referral clients. Better still, swimming skills are not required to participate.

Aqualions is a disability swim club catering for individuals with a range of needs. Members meet every Sunday at St Peter’s. The club focusses on developing the essential life skills of swimming and boosting self-esteem in a fun-filled environment. Sessions are free and there’s no need to pre book, just turn up.

Family fun sessions are the perfect way to bring the family together to make a splash! There’s floats, toys, and a welcoming atmosphere. No booking required, just drop in.

Parent and toddler sessions are the perfect way to introduce your child to the water. With floats, toys, and a relaxed atmosphere, these sessions are designed to help build water confidence and create bonding moments between parent and child.

Swimfit is developed by Swim England and is a motivational tool for the pool that provides you with the challenge and support needed to reach your fitness goals. You need to be able to complete two lengths front crawl and two lengths backstroke to take part.

Water Fitness is water-based resistance training that Improves cardiovascular fitness and builds endurance, increases muscular strength and alleviates pressure on the joints.

NO BETTER TIME TO LEARN

Around one-in-three adults in the UK can’t swim the length of a full-sized pool. Yet, one-in-four non-swimmers would like to learn how.

Here at BLC, we work hand in hand with Swim England’s learn to swim programme, which allows us to offer a huge range of swimming lessons from Discovering Ducklings right through to adult swimfit and triathlon training.

We’re incredibly proud to say our Swim Academy welcomes 4,200 children every year at St Peter’s and Padiham pools.

We also provide swimming crash courses during school holidays and for proficient swimmers, we provide lifeguard training.

Joining our Swim Academy costs £26.50 per month for juniors and £29.50 per month for adults, payable by monthly direct debit. 1-to-1 and 1-to-2 swimming lessons are available at extra cost.

TAKE THE PLUNGE

From family fun sessions to children’s swimming lessons, to water-based exercise classes, we have it all at our St Peter’s and Padiham pools, where you can enjoy unlimited swimming for only £26 a month – just take out one of our swim only memberships!

To find out more about swimming with BLC visit our website blcgroup.co.uk and click on activities.

PAR K YOGA RISE SHINE

every Sunday morning with

&

“I love that itʼs outdoors, it is so special to lie there with the sun on your face. I think Shine is a very good teacher. It is a real joy to be a part of. It is lovely to see people of all shapes and sizes and I like that it has made yoga so accessible.”

Sundays are traditionally a day of rest, so what better way to spend your morning then heading down to Queen Victoria Park for a free yoga session.

Park Yoga was first funded to run in Burnley in 2023 by Burnley Leisure and Culture (BLC) who wanted to encourage people to connect with nature and add some movement into their lives.

The introduction of the sessions made Queen’s Park the first and only park in the north of England hosting the free weekly gatherings. Since then, further sessions have been set up in Lytham St Annes, with a Ribble Valley session also planned.

Cheryl Goodman, BLC’s head of community and wellbeing, says: “As a local charity, BLC is keen to continue to invest in our community. Park Yoga is a fantastic example of something that’s for everyone and encourages residents to visit and make use of one of the town’s amazing parks.

“We’ve found that because the sessions are free people are more likely to give it a go because they don’t need to commit to coming every week. Once they’ve tried it and realise how enjoyable it is so many of them become regular attendees.”

Melanie de Meester, health and wellbeing coach at Burnley West Primary Care Network, says: “The goals and values of the Park Yoga are very much aligned with our local priorities of increasing access to enjoyable and inclusive ways to be active.

“Additionally, the fact that the sessions are held outside, supports our focus on creating more opportunities to enjoy the outdoors via Burnley’s ‘Outdoor Town’ campaign, which simply means we focus on promoting the wonderful outdoor spaces we have throughout the borough.”

Everyone is welcome to join Park Yoga regardless of their age, ability and experience level. The pace of the sessions and movements are gentle, making them perfect for people wanting to try yoga for the first time.

Yoga is known for its beneficial impact on physical and mental wellbeing and is recognised by the NHS as good exercise for helping to build strength and flexibility. In its first year the sessions attracted a total of 1,650 participants, an average of 82 per week with similar numbers in the second year, despite a very wet summer.

One of the reasons Park Yoga has taken off in popularity is the welcoming presence of Dr Shine Babu, an experienced, registered Hatha yoga instructor. We caught up with him to find out more…

So, tell us a bit about yourself –when did you start practicing yoga?

I was born in the south of India and I always wanted to work in the health field helping people. From being 15/16 a lot of my friends were looking to become nurses, but I thought I’d do something different and studied a five-year bachelor degree in natural medicine, which included the study of yoga. I then worked for six years as a wellness practitioner in India.

In 2016 I moved to the UK and I now practice holistic therapies such as acupuncture and massage therapies in clinics across East Lancashire.

I’ve also been teaching yoga for 14 years both as a one-to-one therapy and in group studio settings. And of course, for the last two years I’ve been running the Park Yoga.

How does practicing yoga outside differ from being in a studio setting?

Practicing yoga in a park offers a unique experience that a studio setting often cannot replicate. The fresh air invigorates your senses, while the sounds of birds and rustling leaves create a natural soundtrack, grounding you in the present moment. Being surrounded by greenery enhances your connection to nature, which is a powerful source of healing and balance for the mind, body, and soul. Unlike the controlled environment of a studio, the park’s open space and ever-changing surroundings make each session feel fresh and inspiring. Plus, the park’s beauty and upkeep add to the sense of joy and peace, transforming it into a happy sanctuary for your practice.

What do people need to bring with them?

I always tell people to bring three things – a mat or a towel, a water bottle and a friend! You don’t need a specific outfit just loose clothes, and maybe a rain jacket when the weather is bad!

Do you run the sessions whatever the weather?

We do, unless it’s really wet and it would be unsafe then we keep going whatever the weather! For a lot of people it’s something they look forward to, and for me as well when I’m working in the week I enjoy knowing I have Park Yoga at the weekend so we only cancel when we really have to. In fact, last year we only cancelled one session!

What would you say to someone who is nervous about coming to Park Yoga?

Park Yoga is for anyone and everyone – all ages and abilities. We’ve got a great mix of men and women and people from all different communities who come to the sessions.

All the sessions I teach can be done by beginners. I always say at the start of a session please don’t compare yourself to anyone, and I also give them the freedom to skip or modify moves that they don’t feel confident doing. I like to give different options so that people can find something they feel comfortable doing.

What are the benefits of yoga?

Yoga offers countless benefits that can enhance your life, no matter what you do. Physically, it improves flexibility, mobility, and strength, which are especially important as we age. It’s also highly effective for managing pain and supporting overall well-being.

One of yoga’s core principles is breath control. As the saying goes, “If you can control your breathing, nobody can steal your peace.” This focus on mindful breathing helps you stay grounded, present, and calm, even in life’s challenges.

Beyond the physical and mental benefits, there’s also a wonderful social aspect. Our sessions have brought together a group of like-minded individuals who have formed genuine friendships. It’s more than yoga - it’s a growing and supportive community.

What's new for Park Yoga in 2025?

In 2025, Park Yoga is set to be even more exciting and dynamic! I’m always looking for ways to keep the sessions fresh and engaging, so I plan to introduce new themes and collaborate with other teachers from our vibrant yoga community in Lancashire. With teachers specializing in styles like Vinyasa, Yin, and Ashtanga, participants will have the opportunity to explore a variety of yoga practices and broaden their experience.

This past year saw a significant increase in participants, and we’re expecting 2025 to grow even more. To make the sessions not just enjoyable but also educational, I’ll be focusing on sharing insights about yoga postures and philosophy -both during classes and on our social media platforms.

Our Facebook page, Park Yoga Burnley, now has over 1,000 followers, and it’s a fantastic way to stay connected, share updates, and dive deeper into the benefits and wisdom of yoga. Plus, I’m planning to incorporate unique experiences like sound baths to make the sessions truly memorable. 2025 is shaping up to be our best year yet!

HERE'S WHAT SOME OF THE PARTICIPANTS HAD TO SAY ABOUT PARK YOGA...

“Totally recommend Park Yoga, Burnley. Totally free & led by such a sweet man, pitched at all ages and abilities.”

“I enjoy the sun and the birds. It is so serene. It is bliss. Shine is so calming. It is a really good experience, and Iʼve made a friend.”

“It helps me feel calmer and deal with stress better. I wish I could do more.”

FITNESS FOR ALL

'Youʼll never regret a workout'

Apopular saying amongst fitness fans, and while it (annoyingly) may be true, for some keeping fit doesn’t feel that easy to do. Limited mobility and lack of time being just two of the reasons which may stop you in your tracks. We spoke to personal trainer Jemma Turner to find out about her fitness journey and why she’s on a mission to give people the confidence to add movement into their lives.

Having trained as a fitness instructor in her late teens, then going on to work as a higher-level teaching assistant, at the age of 32 Jemma changed careers to takeover running her mum’s business Tuck in at Varleys. Despite the change of career, fitness continued to play an important role in her life, whether that was playing netball or walking the dogs.

“I’ve always found exercise so beneficial for my mental health. Whenever I start feeling that anxiety creeping back in, the first thing I’ll do is work out and I’ll feel instantly calmer. I’ve also got hip dysplasia and arthritis in my back, so keeping mobile

is especially important to me,” Jemma explains.

With her children growing up, Jemma decided it was time to do something for herself and in 2022 she joined MT3 Fitness in Harle Syke, Burnley. Whilst chatting with the owners Mark and Heather Turner (no relation!), Jemma shared her fitness background, and they suggested she start running some classes there.

“The first sessions I ran were stretch and mobility and they’ve proven to be extremely popular. I think part of this is because they are suitable for absolutely anyone, regardless of their age or mobility. There’s also the fact that there’s a real community here so people don’t feel overwhelmed about stepping in the building. We always start the sessions with a brew and a chat. We even have a group who come and play a game of boules before their session starts.”

It's the gym’s community spirit which led Jemma and the MT3 team to raise money for a community defibrillator. “The nearest defibrillator was either up a hill or in a building that was closed in the evening, so we decided to fund another. We raised over £2,00 through putting on events and generous support from local businesses.”

As well as running sessions at MT3 and providing 1-2-1 personal training sessions, Jemma has also teamed up with fellow personal trainer Dan O’Brien to set up Care Fit, providing fitness sessions for those in need of extra support, including to care home residents.

“What’s so rewarding with delivering sessions to older people is seeing that it’s never too late to work on your fitness - we can all benefit from strengthening our bodies. One of the main barriers to taking part in activities is a lack of confidence so it’s nice to see through taking part people start to change their mindsets and really believe in themselves. Whoever I’m working with my main aim is to just give people that confidence and belief that they can do it.”

Here are Jemmaʼs top tips for starting out on your fitness journey...

Start small – simply walking up and down your stairs a couple of times a day or carrying out some simple stretches is an easy way to start.

Set a goal – it could be as simple as wanting to visit a relative who has stairs leading up to their home or joining in at your child’s sport’s day. Having something to aim for will really help you stay motivated.

Stay consistent – the more you make movement part of your routine, the more you will be likely to continue, and the better the results will be.

Do it at your own pace – don’t push yourself too hard, or you’ll feel disheartened and want to give up. If you are using weights build up slowly.

Get a buddy – find a friend or family member who will join you either at an exercise class or even just going for a walk or a swim, having the company will help you feel more confident.

(2)

(3)

(4)

It’s important to stretch before you carry out any exercise. Here are a few simple stretches you can try; (1) downward dog, (2) runner, (3) pigeon, (4) child pose

(1)

(2)

(3)

(4) (6) (7)

Perform each exercise for 20 seconds followed by a 10 second rest (1) run on the spot, (2) punching the air, (3) squat, (4) side hop, (5) high knees, (6) press up (any version), (7) plank (any version) ∞ FOR A 30 MIN WORKOUT REPEAT SIX TIMES ∞ ∞ FOR A 15 MIN WORKOUT REPEAT THREE TIMES ∞

Support the in YOUR LIFE! YOUNG PEOPLE START

- small -

From friendship dramas to changing bodies, growing up can be tough. In this issue we’ve talked about some of the ways you can implement self-care but what about if you are supporting a young person with their wellbeing.

Zainab Bhatti is a qualified

counsellor who has worked in schools supporting students for the last five years. Here she shares some tips on how best to show up for the young people in your life. When I was much younger, I read a quote which said; 'if you want to change the world, start by making your bed.' "This made no sense

GIVE THEM A HUG!

ANXIETY

If a young person cries in your presence, allow them to. Offer a hug them, if appropriate, and try not to

Anxiety is our body's way of alerting us to danger. However, we need reminding that there is no immediate danger when we are doing dayto-day tasks. Repeating affirmations like 'I am ok' and clenching your fists really tightly, and releasing, while counting backwards from ten can help.

JOURNALING

FEELINGS BIG

Journaling is growing in popularity and can take many different forms – writing a letter to their future self, bullet points of things they are grateful for or just doodling. There are even apps available that enable users to journal on their phone.

Underneath big feelings like anger or jealousy, there is always a secondary reason. It could be embarrassment, humiliation, disappointment or feeling inadequate and unimportant. Try and see beyond the reaction to uncover the underlying cause.

to me at all. How on earth would making my bed impact change in the world? As an adult, this now makes sense. Start small, and it will have a ripple effect. As a counsellor, this is something that I see in many of clients; small changes can lead to big, positive changes in their life."

+ it will ripple into everything! AFEWsmallSTEPSTO HELP

be the first person to let go. When I have a good cry, it feels as if a big weight has been lifted off my shoulders!

BE CREATIVE!

Being creative can be extremely therapeutic – try cooking a meal without following a recipe or encourage them to get some old magazines and make a collage.

READ

Read a children's book. It is a good way for the parent or caregiver to create a meaningful 1:1 connection with the young child. I'd rather read Tom Gates than unload the dishwasher, any day! Listen to music together, sing your heart out and have a dance around the house - if they haven’t yet reached that stage where everything you do is embarrassing!

IF YOU OR SOMEONE YOU KNOW IS STRUGGLING, PLEASE REACH OUT TO SOMEONE! THERE IS ALWAYS SOMEONE OUT THERE, WHO IS WILLING TO LISTEN TO YOUR STORY & HELP YOU ALONG ON YOUR JOURNEY.

LISTEN

TO MUSIC

Websites such as mind.org.uk & youngminds.org.uk have a wealth of resources to help support wellbeing.

Sarah Dearden – ENSO CREATIVE

UN LEASH C R EAT IVITY

TO

UNLO C K POSI T IVE

W ELLBEING

by Rachel Bayley

AsI walk into Sarah Dearden’s studio at Slater Terrace in Burnley, it is such a bright and airy space with views of the canal, it is clear it makes the perfect location for an art studio.

Number 4 Slater Terrace is home to Enso Creative Arts, a Community Interest Company (CIC) that is dedicated to supporting health and wellbeing through channelling people’s creativity – even those who think they do not have a shred of artistic flair within them.

“You wouldn’t believe the amount of people who come through the door and say they can’t draw and are going to be hopeless and then, through some gentle coaching, discover they do have a creative streak after all,” Sarah tells Burnley Lifestyle.

Helping others discover their inner artist is a passion of Sarah’s, but there’s a heartbreaking story behind the creation of her business and how it ended up being located on the banks of the Leeds Liverpool Canal.

“I’ve always engaged with art from around five years old. My mum can sketch from a photo but never pursued art as a career as that generation was often swayed towards more traditional careers. She taught me as a small child how to properly structure a portrait and I was hooked. I chose to study art at college, which frustrated my dad because I was very academic, and went on to study a fine art degree at university. However, once I’d left uni, it was clear that making a decent salary from being an artist wasn’t going to be easy, so I went down the corporate route,” Sarah explained.

As much as it paid the bills - essential, as Sarah had had her first daughter but experienced a relationship breakdown with her partner – she realised it wasn’t aligned to who she was as a person. She continued to work her way up the corporate ladder, but her mental health took a hit.

“I was clinically depressed and having panic attacks. I was doing the nursery drop off at 7.30am, racing to work in Manchester and would be late home, so I’d have to pay one of the nursery staff to take my eldest Ella home to wait for me. I then had a second daughter, Mia, with a new partner, but he lived in Worsley and my parents had moved to Cape Town. We decided it would be best if I moved in with him as I had no support network in Lancashire,” Sarah continued.

Sarahʼs mental health hit rock bottom

To the outside, it may have seemed like Sarah’s situation would improve, living as a family unit and being closer to her job. But there is no “instant solution” to depression and Sarah still found she was going through the motions and functioning because she had to.

“I made an unemotional, logical (in my head) decision to take my own life. I was ready to do it and had everything ready to do it. Looking back, it scares me how clear a solution it felt. It was the thought of my daughters knowing I’d left them in that way that made me stop.

“Thankfully, the GP I had was amazing and put me on medication - which of course helps but isn’t the full solution – and referred me to Cognitive Behavioural Therapy

and counselling. He also referred me to Start in Salford, a creative arts foundation. And it saved my life.”

As soon as Sarah walked through the doors of Start in Salford, she felt at home, and having dedicated time to reconnect with her creative side proved a huge turning point.

"After believing for the entirety of my adult life that I could not paint figuratively, the programme provided a non judgmental space where I felt safe to push the boundaries of my own comfort zone. This was a truly transformative experience as I successfully challenged a limiting belief that I had held for so long which then enabled me to begin to analyse other negative and restrictive mindsets whilst challenging their basis. Creating

this painting was a pivotal moment in my journey, both in my recovery from serious mental health issues as well as in setting the trajectory for my life from that point on.”

Sarah used the service for eight months, before becoming a volunteer as she felt she owed a debt to those who had changed her life. Unfortunately, Sarah’s relationship didn’t work out, although she acknowledges what a brilliant support her ex-partner and his parents were. She moved back to the area and registered as self-employed, recognising that the corporate world was no longer conducive to her wellbeing. Within two weeks, she had studio space at Higherford Mill, on the outskirts of Barrowford.

The steps to landing in Burnley

Sarah’s studio soared in popularity, especially with classes for children, and it was clear this was her purpose in life (“the children often tell me that their favourite day of the week is when they come to my group!”). Being creative builds confidence in young people, as well as problem solving and critical thinking skills when they need to think outside of the box to get from A to B with a piece of art.

However, a chance meeting with someone at Pendle Leisure Trust then changed the direction of Sarah’s journey once again.

“She said there was funding available for a programme similar to the one I had used in Salford and of course, I still felt I owed everything to those who had helped me, so I said yes. It’s why Enso Creative Arts was established as a CIC. I could relate to the service users, and I really enjoyed it,” Sarah said.

However, her growing popularity meant she quickly outgrew her location and

friend Dave Scholes, founder of mental health CIC Six Connections, suggested Slater Terrace, where he is based, would make the perfect studio.

As soon as she walked in, she fell in love with it and how accessible it was for people to get to. From 4 Slater Terrace, Sarah runs art classes for men (who often don’t speak about mental health), children, corporate clients and of course, everyone who wishes to benefit from being creative.

“When people say they’re not creative, it’s usually because of a fear of letting go or feeling silly that they might only usually be able to conjure up a doodle. It’s usually because they’ve not been given the time or safe space to get creative and I make that accessible,” Sarah explained.

Since being in Burnley, she’s delivered sessions at Burnley Business Week, for the Burnley Bondholders and the Burnley Council communications department had their away day at her studio.

When people say theyʼre not creative, itʼs usually because of a fear of letting go or feeling silly that they might only usually be able to conjure up a doodle. Itʼs usually because theyʼve not been given the time or safe space to get creative and I make that accessible.

So, whats next for Sarah?

“I’ve been asked to help shape the Burnley Year of Culture 2027, which is a huge privilege to be part of. Of course, I’ll keep running my sessions for people from all walks of life and just enjoy being based in this beautiful new location.” More information about Sarah’s classes can be found at ensocreativeartscic.co.uk or by contacting Sarah on sarah@ensocreativeartscic.co.uk

by Katie McGee

DISC OVER THE M AGIC - OF THEN EST FA R M SCHOOL

Nestled in the picturesque countryside of Burnley, The Nest Farm School is a true hidden gem. Offering a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life, this family-run farm invites both children and adults to immerse themselves in nature and interact with an array of animals. In the words of owner Georgie Mitchell, it’s a farm of “happiness and good vibes”.

Curious to experience this slice of rural paradise for myself, I decided to brave a particularly windy and rainy day to visit Georgie at the farm school. Despite the less-than-ideal weather, I was immediately warmed by the incredibly welcoming atmosphere.

The farm is tucked away on a smallholding on Greenhead Lane. After a slight detour from taking a wrong turning (top tip – look out for the Nest Farm School sign on the big brown gates just by the lay-by), I arrived and was greeted by Georgie and her two daughters, Dolly and Peggy, who were eager to show me around. Their excitement was contagious, and I couldn’t wait to see what made this place so special.

FROM DREAM TO REALITY

Before we start our tour I’m eager to find out how Georgie ended up setting up The Nest and it soon becomes clear that fate plays a big part of her story.

“I didn’t really know what I was going to do when I took over the land,” Georgie told me. “I had Billy, who was seven, Dolly, who was four, and Peggy, who was just six weeks old. In fact, I went into labour with her in the middle of a snowy field with only dogs and sheep there for assistance”, she laughed. “So taking this on was nothing compared to that.”

The land where Peggy almost arrived was Georgie’s previous smallholding where she had sheep and pigs that she sold at farmers' markets. She’d heard about the land on Greenhead Lane from a friend but wasn’t sure what to expect. “I arranged to come and see the guy who’s now my landlord, and I thought I was coming to just see a shed like you’d have in a garden. But when I got here and saw the big barn, the field, and the fact that it had a toilet and running water,

I was sold! I’d had to get water from streams carrying water butts before.”

The shed was previously used as an egg farm, but Georgie knew she didn’t want to continue that path.

“I did lots of research about different things I could do but nothing was really appealing to me. Then one night, I woke up at about three in the morning and wrote the words 'farm school' on a piece of paper, and that was it.” Despite scepticism from many, Georgie pressed on with her plans. “Loads of people said I wouldn’t be able to do it. I had to do all my own risk assessments, insurance writing and planning applications which wasn’t for the faint hearted, but I was determined to make it work.”

Since opening in 2019 the farm school’s popularity has continued to grow, with sessions and events booking up quickly. Georgie also has contracts with local behavioural schools and alternative provision settings to deliver an animal care course and provide therapeutic

interventions. “That’s something I feel really passionate about. They come for a few hours every week, and I’m accredited to deliver the sessions.”

Georgie dreams of further expanding the farm school into an alternative provision school where people can be referred to. “I’d love to have another building here and get staff in to teach. Kids need to be out in the fresh air. I do a lot of work with an autistic charity and when parents and carers visit, they really appreciate being here as their children can safely roam and explore the secure surroundings, giving them chance to natter with other people in a similar situation to them.”

Georgie’s background is in education (as well as professional snow boarder, but that’s a tale for another time). In fact, as well as running the farm school, she is also headteacher at an alternative provision school. For some, this busy lifestyle would be exhausting, but it’s clear that Georgie loves what she does.

Georgie’s passion is clearly contagious as Dolly and Peggy play a big part in the business, both helping to take care of the animals and come up with ideas for sessions. Last year Dolly devised a silent bonfire for children who wanted to celebrate but felt

"happiness good & A FAMILY AFFAIR

overwhelmed by noisy fireworks and big crowds. She also wanted something that was kinder to the animals too, knowing how frightened many of them are at that time of year.

The event was such a success that they had another for their New

Year’s Eve celebrations. The event included meeting and greeting the farm animals, crafting family wishing bags, enjoying a magical firepit, and ended with sparklers. It’s these kinds of personal touches which no doubt makes the farm school so popular.

vibes"

DOLLY PEGGY

AND ON THAT FARM, THEY HAD SOME…

One of the highlights of my visit was the chance to get up close with the farm’s residents. The animals, ranging from fluffy rabbits and guinea pigs to curious goats, donkeys and my personal favourite Wallace the Wallaby, are clearly

wellloved and wellcared for. Georgie’s daughters were fantastic guides, enthusiastically introducing me to each animal and sharing fun facts about their personalities and habits.

Most of the animals are rescued or rehomed by Georgie, creating a

wonderful variety of quirky characters. One of the animals, Dash the Donkey, even inspired Georgie to write and publish a book titled A Christmas Surprise: The Nest Farm Stories based on the true story of how Dash arrived at the farm one Christmas Eve.

UNIQUE EVENTS AND EXPE R IENCES...

The Nest Farm School isn’t just about everyday farm life - it also offers a variety of unique events and experiences. Georgie organises seasonal workshops, educational sessions, and even special celebration events. Each one is designed to create lasting memories and foster a deeper connection with nature.

From children’s birthday parties to mindfulness retreats for adults, there’s something for everyone. Georgie’s creativity and passion shine through in every event, making them truly one-of-a-kind experiences. For outdoor- loving children, The Nest Farm School offers two hours of

private farm exclusivity for birthday parties. Guests can enjoy the party barn, meet and greet the farm animals, and engage in outdoor play. Fire pits for marshmallows and s'mores can be added to the package, and themed options like Pony, Woodland, and Fairy parties are also available.

PLAN YOUR VISIT!

The Nest Farm School is located on Greenhead Lane, Burnley. Be sure to check their website or social media for the latest events and booking information. Trust me, it’s an experience you won’t want to miss!

/TheNestfarmschool

YEAR ROUND NFU

R E VOLUTION... BURNLEY’S RETRO ROLLER

Picture Me Rollin' [a roller skating rink]

Picture Me Rollin’, as its name suggests, is a roller-skating rink located in the heart of Burnley. But after chatting with LeAnn Forrest, the passionate force behind this venture, it’s clear that it’s much more than just that.

This vibrant venue doubles as a children’s entertainment centre, featuring themed party rooms for kids, as well as party spaces for adults equipped with beer pong, karaoke, and dartboards. It also boasts a tuck shop filled with snacks and props, making it a haven for kids - and grown-up kids - looking for a fun and unique experience.

Located on the first floor of 1-7 Hammerton Street, Picture Me Rollin’ has an unmistakable 80s/90s disco feel, with UV-painted walls, glittering disco balls, and colourful Slinkys dangling from the ceiling. Even its name, ‘Picture Me Rollin’, is a nod to 90s hip-hop, inspired by the iconic Tupac track.

We spoke to owner LeAnn about where she got the inspiration to start this funky new venture: “This venue is basically what’s inside my head, this is what my brain works like!” she joked as we sat beside the rink on one of the booths. “People do take all the details in, like the Slinkys on the ceiling, it all gets pointed out.”

There is a certain charm to the décor that puts a smile on your face; it’s like each time you look you spot a different thing. LeAnn continued: “The Rubix Cubes on the wall, the little skateboards and the CDs dotted everywhere, these are all mine from when I was a kid, so what you’re seeing in this venue is a bit of me”.

The perfect fit

The quantity and quality of restaurants and cafes has really picked up in Burnley over the past few years. REEL Cinema, just down the road from Picture Me Rollin', is a huge draw for getting people into the town centre. However, it’s always refreshing to see a bright new idea enter the centre and add to the list of reasons to visit. But where did the idea come from?

“I’ve had experience with running a roller rink in the past, and I really thought that this is something that Burnley needed. It’s great for kids as it keeps them active, they end up exercising without even realising as it works all their muscles. And all this happens whilst their parents can sit back and have a brew or join in themselves.

“I like the fact that there’s already a lot going on in Burnley town centre, and we are right there in the thick of it all.” After saying how Picture Me Rollin' complements the other town centre offerings, we asked LeAnn what she thought about the town centre as a whole:

“Burnley town centre has changed loads. Since moving here, I feel like we fit in perfectly. The takeaway next door (Flames) and with me, downstairs (MK Studio) have been great with me, there’s a café round the corner (The Last Stop Café) she’s been helping with flyers, we fit in here and I think the surrounding businesses help spread the word.”

But it’s not just the small independents that complement LeAnn’s venture; the bigger chains help with footfall into the town centre which, in turn, benefit venues like Picture Me Rollin':

“I think big chains in the town centre is a good thing. The Primark down the road, where a lot of people come into town for, the Nando’s of course and there’s even a Taco Bell now. All of these places together make the town much better than it used to be.

“Just give it a go!”

LeAnn wanted to assure us that roller skating is not just for kids. She gets loads of adults coming to try it out: “You get a lot of people who come saying they can ice skate but have never tried roller skating. We’ve just bought 174 pairs of new boots, that included inlines as well as quads, and I always say if you can ice skate, you can inline. It’s just the same but you’re not as cold! “I had a lady here that was 80-odd years old the other day, she said it took her right back to her youth. That’s what it’s about.”

LeAnn even hosts adults-only nights on the last Saturday of every month that she says have been really busy, “I’m really appreciative that people are taking notice. It’s just £10 to get in and you can even bring your own alcohol so, to me, it’s a cheap night out for people.”

You only have to look at the online reviews to see how loved this new venue is. Not just with the roller rink, there are party rooms for hire which also get a lot of praise. It certainly adds something unique to the town centre, and LeAnn even hinted at plans for floor two of the premises for the future - so watch this space!

Spreading community C HEE R

In the heart of Burnley, a beacon of community spirit and well-being has emerged, thanks to the tireless efforts of Lianne Bruce. With her new Community Interest Company (CIC), Basically Cheer Wellbeing Hub, Lianne and the team are on a mission to unite and uplift the local community, offering a space for health, happiness, and connection.

A journey from dance to community hub

For the past 14 years, Lianne has been at the helm of dance and fitness classes in Burnley. However, the aftermath of the COVID pandemic revealed deeper needs within the community. “It started to become clear that people were finding it hard to get back to normal. People seemed more anxious about coming to classes and mixing in larger groups,” Lianne reflects. This observation

inspired her to take action, leading to the creation of the Community Outreach Programme Engagements (COPE) at Cliviger Village Hall.

“The sessions provided a safe space for people, which made me realise this was what I really wanted to do,” Lianne explains. The success of COPE spurred her on to open a dedicated health and well-being hub.

Our goal is to cheer people up, offering a safe, welcoming space where everyone can feel uplifted and connected.

A dream realised on Cog Lane

In July 2024, Lianne, along with the CIC's fellow directors Amy Jinks and Sarah Bromley, signed the lease for a venue on Cog Lane, transforming it into a welcoming space with the help of her husband Damien and a team of willing friends and family. The hub now boasts rooms for dance and fitness classes, a craft room, a kitchen, and even a studio for Damien to pursue his passion for art. “It’s a place where everything we’ve dreamed of can come to life under one roof,” Lianne shares.

Activities for all ages and needs

From crafts to sound baths, the hub offers a diverse array of classes aimed at catering to the community's needs. “When we first opened, we put out a survey to find out what people wanted,” Lianne says. “We’re constantly seeking feedback and trying new things.”

The hub isn’t just about physical activities; it’s a haven for mental well-being too. Recognising the rise in mental health challenges, Lianne emphasises the importance of exercise in boosting endorphins and fostering social connections. “Social isolation is a big problem, and our classes aim to bring people together,” she notes. Additionally, the hub features a Youth Development Programme, where young people act as junior coaches, building bonds and gaining valuable experience.

A vision for the future

Looking ahead, the team are keen to expand the hub’s support for individuals with special educational needs (SEN) and are planning to launch a coffee morning to provide support for parents. “Since opening, I’ve had parents reach out in tears, seeking support. We’re building connections to offer a listening ear and guide them to appropriate resources,” Lianne says.

Recognising community contributions

Lianne’s dedication hasn’t gone unnoticed. She was honoured at the Active Burnley Awards 2024 in the Individual Contribution to Active Communities category. Beyond her hub activities, Lianne continues to lead Basically Cheer and Fitness, offering everything from toddler dance classes to holiday clubs, and even armchair exercise sessions for seniors.

The name ‘cheer’ is truly fitting, as Lianne concludes: “Our goal is to cheer people up, offering a safe, welcoming space where everyone can feel uplifted and connected.”

For those inspired by Lianne’s mission, the hub is always looking for volunteers to offer a helping hand. To find out more visit basicallycheercic.com

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1. When does Towneley Hall date back to?

a. 1380

b. 1302

c. 1405

2. How many windows in total does Towneley Hall have?

a. 50

b. 389

c. 122

3. When did Towneley Hall open to the public?

a. 1903

b. 1857

c. 1967

Towneley

Trivia and Activities

In 1909 Herbert Barber was paid 12 shillings per week to collect what from visitors to the Hall?

a. Entrance fees

b. Coats and jackets

c. Umbrellas, parasols and walking sticks.

5. What height is the ceiling in the Great Hall?

a. 8.6 metres

b. 9.2 metres

c. 7 metres

6. Which bird appears on the Towneley Crest?

a. Sparrowhawk

b. Crow

c. Eagle

7. What is the nickname of the famous taxidermy Himalayan black bear donated by W. T. Taylor in 1910?

a. Bertie

b. Brenda

c. Bill

8. How many Victoria Cross Medals are cared for by Towneley Hall?

a. 2

b. 0

c. 1

Can you find these 10 Towneley words?

Hall

Fountain

Egyptian

Bill The Bear

Vestments

Wildlife

Paintings

Chapel

Victorian

DID YOU KNOW?

In 1909 Edward Stocks Massey, a local businessman left a sum of money in his will to use for the promotion of Arts in the Burnley area. This bequest fund helped purchase the majority of the paintings at Towneley Hall today.

Whilst the Hall has been closed for restoration Zoffany’s painting ‘Charles Townley and Friends in His Library at Park Street, Westminster’ has been on loan and featured in major exhibitions at Sotheby’s in London, and Gallerie D’Italia in Naples, Italy. It will be back on display at Towneley when the Hall re-opens.

Althoughit datesbackto1530theold oakdoorattheentranceisnotoriginal toTowneleyHall.ItcamefromStandish HallnearWigan(longsincedemolished). Thetwofamilieswerelinkedbythe marriageofWilliamTowneleytoCecilia Standish in 1736, and the doors were installedatTowneleysometimelater.

Towneley Hall Society is 60 years old this year! The Society exists to promote interest in the Hall, holding lectures and social events and raising money for the Hall by subscriptions, gifts, bequests or donations.

Scullery

Q&A QUICK

SO ASHLYN I BELIEVE YOUR FIRST TRIP TO BURNLEY WAS SIGNIFICANT IN MORE THAN ONE WAY?

Ashlyn: I was studying at Brigham Young University in Utah (USA) and came over in the summertime to see my parents and visit Burnley for the first time since dad had invested in the football club. Joe had been working there for a few months and my dad thought we’d be well suited. I met Joe on my first day in Burnley and my dad was right, we really hit it off.

JOE OBVIOUSLY MADE A GOOD IMPRESSION BUT WHAT WERE YOUR THOUGHTS ON THE BOROUGH?

Ashlyn: Even though I was born in

London and spent a lot of time in the UK I’d never been to Lancashire before. Firstly, I was struck by the way everything looked, it reminded me a little bit of Scotland with the rolling hills and the sheep. Seeing the stadium for the first time was amazing and I could see why my dad thought the town was so special. It seemed like a place that I wanted to spend more time, so when Joe and I hit it off I was happy to come over and spend more time here. I really like all the mills and the history in Burnley. You understand what this town was built on, and even though the town has developed since then it’s

really special to be reminded of the humble beginnings. It’s just a really cool place and really different to anything I’ve ever experienced before. IT SEEMS THAT YOU HAVE BOTH REALLY SETTLED IN WELL IN BURNLEY?

Joe: We really have, we’ve set up a home here and now our first child is going to be born in Burnley General Hospital.

Ashlyn: My grandpa Gary lived in Lancashire when he was in his 20’s and he loved it which is what made my dad want to come here. So, it’s really special that we’ve settled here.

I don’t think anyone would have anticipated even when my dad was

looking at clubs that we would get this embedded into a community and on top of that my parents first grandchild would be born here. It’s not something that we would have thought would have happened, but we are really glad it has.

Joe: We’ve taken on Burnley as a big part of our identities in a lot of ways. We didn’t have to live here but we chose to because we see it as part of our future and somewhere we can raise our kids.

Ashlyn: It’s been a total 180 to how my life was before but in the most positive way. Life has become almost technicolour since we’ve been here, and we’ve experienced so many cool things together. It’s been a really good time the two of us so far and it will be great when it’s the three of us.

HAVE YOUR OPINIONS OF THE BOROUGH CHANGED SINCE YOUR FIRST VISIT?

Ashlyn: Even in the short time we’ve lived here we’ve seen so many changes like Town to Turf and all the new developments in the town centre. It’s a place we are really proud to invite our family and friends to.

DO YOU HAVE ANY FAVOURITE THINGS TO DO?

Ashlyn: Coming over here as someone who doesn’t drive, I’ve done so much walking around Burnley, I love how accessible it is. I’ve not done Pendle Hill yet, but my parents have recommended it.

Joe: We love visiting Towneley Park and taking a picnic in the summer. We also have friends with farms, and we love going there and feeding the lambs in spring.

ASHLYN SHARES HER FAVOURITE PLACES TO EAT...

ASHLYN, IT’S CLEAR FROM YOUR INSTAGRAM ACCOUNT THAT FOOD PLAYS AN IMPORTANT PART OF YOUR LIFE?

Ashlyn: As a family we were taught how important it is to sit down and enjoy a meal together and that’s something I’ve really carried through to my own home.

I really missed American food when I first came over so to overcome that I decided to dive into exploring the food here. I started posting videos on Instagram of food reviews so I could show my friends back home what British food was like.

I love meal prepping and I’ve got more creative the longer we’ve been doing it. We had some chicken satay bowls at the Trafford Centre the other night so I recreated them at home and they were amazing.

THE PALAZZO

- Bank House, Grimshaw St, Burnley BB11 2AS

The Palazzo has been a favourite of ours for a long time now. I used to live in Italy so I can appreciate good Italian food made by real Italians, and I find it so cool that we have access to that right here in Burnley town centre. I love going to The Palazzo because you know that it’s always going to be a good experience having dinner there. Between the beautiful architecture, bustling vibes, and smell of that delicious wood fire pizza, what’s not to love?

We’re the kind of people who love getting a starter and most notably we love their Bruschetta and their Gamberoni All’aglio. The fresh herbs really shine through in both dishes.

As far as a main course Joe is always getting a pizza and I’m getting pasta. I personally love their Linguine Carbonara, it really hits all the right creamy and savoury notes. Joe’s pizza of choice has got to be the Don Mario with olives. That one’s got Parma ham, chilli honey, rocket, Parmesan shavings, tomato, basil and Fior di Latte mozzarella. Anytime he gets that I’m stealing a slice.

My favourite memory of eating at The Palazzo would have to be having dinner there right after the bus parade when we won the league in 2023. The whole town seemed to be on a high that night and I swear that pizza tasted even better that day.

ELLIS'S

- 13 St James’s Row, Burnley BB11 1DR

If we go and eat out with my parents Ellis’s is a firm favourite. I feel like Americans have quite high standards of what they want from a burger and Ellis’s is up there. In fact, when Dude Perfect came over for the first time they said “now that is a good burger”. So hats off to them! If it’s your first time at Ellis’s I have to recommend the ‘Notorious’ burger. It’s a hefty burger but it hits the spot.

REAL FOOD HALL

- 8 Manchester Rd, Burnley BB11 1HH

A recent favourite of ours has been Real Food Hall, we love to go here on a weekday night for a casual dinner date. The food hall has everything from fish and chips to street food, and they do a great milkshake! We’re big fans of their pizza and their nachos and cauliflower wings do not

disappoint! We love the style of the Real Food Hall, and it’s a real unique new feature to Burnley town centre. You can enjoy a meal there or go to the Vault cinema which is below the restaurant for both private and public showings. If you haven’t been before, you need to check it out!

ZUMUKU SUSHI

- 49 Bank Parade, Burnley BB11 1UG

Zumuku Sushi based at The Loom is one that not many people know about and it is fairly new to Burnley. We found out about it from one of our American colleagues at BFC who mentioned that there was finally a local sushi place that wasn’t just the YO sushi section in Tesco! I’d found that you usually can't get good sushi in England unless you’re in a big city, so we were so keen to try it out.

We’ve gotten it as a takeaway quite a few times and have never been disappointed. The sushi is authentic and fresh, I personally love the Crunchy California and the Dynamite Roll. For non-sushi lovers they do have alternatives like Wings, Chicken Katsu curry and really tasty Gyozas. If you want to mix it up on your usual takeout, you need to try Zumuku.

THE WHITE SWAN

- 300 Wheatley Lane Rd, Burnley BB12 9QA

The White Swan in Fence is an amazing dining experience, it’s no surprise that it has a Michelin-Star! The restaurant is similar to a lot of things in Burnley, quite unassuming on the outside, but a real treasure within. I had many people recommend it to me when I first moved here, and so I was delighted when I finally went with my parents one evening. We enjoyed every single

item on their tasting menu, I remember I couldn’t even pick a favourite of the night. I can recommend doing the cheese selection at the end of the meal, it was incredible how many different types they offered and all the incredible pairings they had with them. Not your average pub in Burnley but it’s certainly worth treating yourself to!

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R EAL F OOD HALL VAULT C I N EMAS &

There’s a new leisure and hospitality venue in Burnley town centre and it’s not messing about when it comes to bringing a fresh new offering.

Real Food Hall and Vault Cinemas opened in December 2024, and it’s already quickly made its mark.

The new leisure offerings are located in the former Barclays Bank on Manchester Road, which also used to be The Savoy Cinema in 1918. It is this rich history of the huge premises that led to the inspiration of having a cosy new cinema and 1920s decor-themed food hall (with more to follow – on that later).

The premises then housed various retailers until its last occupier, Select. After spending a long time vacant, the building was purchased and transformed into the dynamic new venue, with repeated nods to its historic past.

Vault Cinemas

Arguably, Vault Cinemas is the showstopper. Hidden behind a glittering gold door with a bank vault on, the cinema oozes luxury – although we were surprised at how accessible this opulent experience is. As you push open the door, you will immediately be taken aback by the grand chandelier that has been relocated from the ballroom of the former Keirby Hotel.

When Burnley Lifestyle was invited to take a tour, we were taken aback by just how luxurious the setting was, but also how reasonable the prices are. You can also choose from a huge library of 450 films, so you can tailor the cinema experience to exactly what you want.

Mia Goddard, general manager of Real Food Hall and Vault Cinemas, explained the idea behind the concept:

“Our cinema offering is truly one of the standout features of this space. The cinema rooms are housed in the former vaults of a 1960s bank, which gives the whole experience an incredibly intimate and luxurious feel. We have two large Vault Cinema rooms -one seating 18 guests and the other seating eight - both of which are perfect for enjoying the latest releases in our public screening rooms.

“Additionally, we have a five-seater auditorium and four two-seater private screening rooms, providing a variety of options for a personalised and unique movie night. All cinema tickets include bottomless pick and mix, popcorn, and soft drinks, which really sets us apart from traditional cinemas. It’s all about offering our guests comfort, privacy, and a touch of indulgence. We’re thrilled to bring this building back to its cinematic roots. “

You can also enjoy table service and order food and drinks from the food hall upstairs.

Real Food Hall

Above the cinema lies Real Food Hall. The menu is huge and covers an array of tastes, from pizzas and loaded fries to burgers and comfort meals like pies. There’s also a huge variety of ice creams from local farm Mrs Dowsons, as well as other sweet treats such as waffles.

In fact, the menu is so vast that when we came for a team lunch, our eyes were definitely bigger than our stomachs and we filled our table with dishes to share.

Mia said: “The food offering is diverse, with something to suit everyone. We have a fantastic range of options, from woodfired pizza to street food classics like smash burgers, loaded fries, wings, and more. Our traditional kitchen is where you’ll find comfort food like our famous pies and Yorkshire pudding wraps, which are already becoming a favourite among our guests.

“Our head chef, Paul Hilton, is a highly experienced chef well known in

Burnley for his successful businesses Pieaze and Roasteaze. Paul has brought his passion for good, honest food to the Real Food Hall, ensuring quality and flavour are always at the forefront.”

The venue is open seven days a week, from 11am to late, although there are plans to open even earlier. For those of you who might want to enjoy the food but from the comfort of your home, you can order on Just Eat and Deliveroo. Another USP of Real Food Hall and Vault Cinemas is they can be hired for private events.

“Whether you’re hosting a corporate event, birthday party, or a special celebration, we can accommodate your needs. We offer tailored packages, including private screenings in the cinema rooms and custom food offerings from our chefs. It’s the perfect venue for a memorable, exclusive experience,” Mia stated.

The food offering is diverse, with something to suit everyone.

People love the unique concept, the quality of the food, and the luxurious feel of the cinema rooms.

& there's more...

If having a food hall and cinema isn’t enough, the team also have another big plan up their sleeves – boutique accommodation.

Mia revealed: “We have plans to offer luxurious boutique-style accommodation through our Above Hotels service, which includes nine luxury hotel rooms. These rooms are designed with elegance and comfort in mind, featuring private en-suites, underfloor heating, projector screens, king-sized beds, and fully stocked minifridges. Guests can also enjoy dining in the Real Food Hall, making it a complete VIP experience. It’s the perfect place for anyone seeking a truly special stay in Burnley.”

Burnley Lifestyle has seen the planned interiors of the accommodation, and they have the vibe of a boutique hotel you’d find somewhere like Manchester.

It’s certainly a huge offering to bring to market and the hospitality sector is notoriously a tricky one to navigate at the moment – how has business been so far?

“It’s been incredibly busy since opening! We’ve been thrilled with the response from both the local community and visitors from further afield. People have been really excited to have something like this in Burnley, and we’re only just getting started. We’re looking forward to more events, entertainment, and themed nights in the coming months to keep that energy going.

“The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive! People love the unique concept, the quality of the food, and the luxurious feel of the cinema rooms. Many have told us they feel like they’re in a much bigger city when they walk through the doors, which is exactly the type of experience we were aiming for.

We believe weʼve really found a gap in the market, which adds to our success so far. The idea behind creating the food hall and cinema was to offer something truly special to Burnley, combining entertainment, dining, and luxury in one space. We saw a clear gap in the market for a premium, multi-use venue that could cater to both locals and visitors. There wasnʼt a destination that offered this kind of elevated experience in the area, so we set out to create a place that would fill that need, providing something unique and exciting for the community.

We can’t wait to see the accommodation go live and must admit, we’ve already enjoyed several visits to the food hall to work our way through the menu.

COMING SOON

TO THE MECHANICS

21st Century Tennessee

Thurs 3rd April 7:30pm

Tickets from £27

Pinocchio

Wed 9th April 2pm | 6pm

Tickets from £16

The Kilkennys

Thurs 17th April 8pm

Tickets from £27

Strictly Musicals

Thurs 24th – Sat 26th April 7:30pm

Tickets from £18

Mike Peters: From The Alarm – Love Hope Strength

Wed 30th April 7:30pm

Tickets from £28.50

An Intimate Evening with Paul Young

Sun 4th May 7:30pm

Tickets from £32

Barry Steele’s Roy Orbison Story Fri 9th May 7:30pm

Tickets from £28.50

Manford’s Comedy Club Fri 23rd May 8pm

Ticket from £14.50

Brian Bilston & Henry Normal

Thurs 29th May 7:30pm

Tickets from £22

Kai – Evolution Fri 30th May 7:30pm

Tickets from £38

Voulez Vous – The Dinner Show

Fri 4th July 7:30pm

Tickets from £39.50

Find Out More

Scan for more information and to see all upcoming shows

Look out for this symbol to see which shows offer pre-theatre dining.

The Barley Mow

-where good food runs in the family

The beauty of Burnley is that we are surrounded by stunning countryside, including the magnificent Pendle Hill – an iconic hill with a rich history and a popular route for walkers. Conveniently based near the base of the hill is the The Barley Mow. A cosy pub in the village of Barley, which is perfect for everyone, from hikers looking for post-Pendle refreshments to families looking to enjoy a Sunday roast.

The pub’s wooden beams and roaring fires give a warm welcome to visitors, whilst the outdoor seating area makes it the perfect place to sit and have a refreshing drink in the warmer months. Will McLean, general manager, says: “We want everyone who comes through the door to receive a warm Northern welcome, whether they are a local who we see week in week out or a first-time visitor.”

Great food!

The menu at The Barley Mow features hearty but elevated food from head chef Matt Kew, with dishes ranging from pub classics to international cuisine. There’s also a wide range of local beers on offer including Moorhouse’s and Timothy Taylor’s. “Our aim is to provide really nice, well-cooked but hearty food that everyone can enjoy,” says Matt, who trained at Northcote, a Michelin-Star restaurant in the Ribble Valley.

Upstairs are six ensuite bedrooms for visitors looking to stay and enjoy the local area for a little longer, and with the pub’s location being in the heart of the countryside, it makes it the perfect base to do just that. Dog owners will be pleased to know that they are welcome to take along their four-legged friends too.

A place to celebrate special events

The Barley Mow’s idyllic village location combined with its rustic charm make it the perfect place to celebrate a special occasion. The venue can cater for small intimate weddings, civil ceremonies and larger functions too. Will says:

“We get a real mix of events being booked, but regardless of the celebration we pride ourselves in providing fabulous food and top-class service.”

The Barley Mow

Good food runs in the family

Gary Birtwell has co-owned The Barley Mow alongside Nick Stevenson since 2020, and a passion for food is something he’s clearly passed down to son George, who recently made it to the final of the latest series of MasterChef the Professionals. ‘George from Burnley’ as he is affectionately referred to by colleagues at The Black Swan, a Michelin-star restaurant in Yorkshire, was a stand-out star of the series, competing in what the judges described as one of the best finals they had ever seen.

Throughout the series George spoke fondly of home and the influence that fishing with his dad had on him as a child. “We have had many great fishing trips over the years and the memories of

him cooking fresh trout on the riverbank will stay with me forever,” says Gary.

“My first recollection of George’s interest in cooking was as an eightyear-old boy asking if he could cook me a pheasant and mushroom risotto! All he has ever wanted to do was be a chef and he has never wavered in his determination to succeed at the highest level. The long unsociable hours he has worked over the last 12 years are now paying dividends and I think it goes without saying I am immensely proud of George and his achievements to date.”

Keen to show his fellow finalists a taste of Lancashire life, in January George rounded the troops to treat diners to a two-night residency at The Barley Mow, which was so popular that tickets for both nights sold out in under 20 minutes! Alongside Dan, Gaston and Chiara and with assistance of head chef Matt and George’s partner Samira they served up their favourite dishes from the series.

Matt

George & Samira

Head Chef

The Barley Mow

George

George very kindly invited Burnley Lifestyleʼs Luke Pollard to try out the menu.

Predictably, this event, which took place over a Monday and Tuesday evening, was in extremely high demand. As a lover of all things food, I felt incredibly lucky to attend!

Gaston Savina, Chiara Tomasoni, Dan Merriman, and George each served a course, with a different wine paired to each if the optional wine flight was selected.

I dined in the snug at the front of the venue, where the cosy woodburning stove created the homely atmosphere which set the perfect tone for an evening of spectacular food.

The evening started with a venison tartare served on a fluffy hash brown, accompanied by a butter pie which had a delicate pastry surrounding a soft, tasty centre. These were presented as charming, bite-sized pieces, making for a perfect start to the night.

The next course was Gaston's dish, "Pie’scargot” (wine pairing: 2020 Gresy Langhe, Chardonnay). As the name suggests, it's a type of snail pie, which might deter those who aren't fond of snails or believe they belong solely in their shells rather than in a pie. However, this dish is a

daring fusion of French and British classics. As described by Gaston, this is basically a “snail shepard’s pie”.

This would have been ideal for anyone not wellacquainted with snails, whenever I’d had them in the past the snail itself has been overpowered by the garlic and herbs that it’s usually garnished with, but you could actually taste that lovely snail flavour here. A flavour which was beautifully mellowed out by the soft, creamy potato on top. The dish exemplified sustainable eating, or “for planet Earth” as Gaston described, through its use of snails and potatoes, both of which are environmentally friendly choices.

Next was Chiara’s course, barbequed scallops, on Jerusalem artichoke sauce (wine pairing: 2023 Chateau Maucoil, Chateauneuf-du-pape). This dish was also served with panisse (chickpea flour fries) with scallop dipping sauce. This was probably my favourite dish of the evening. What made it so special? The sauce was topped with little chunks of speck, which brought all of the flavours together. For those unfamiliar (as I was until this evening), speck is a form of cured, lightly smoked ham typical of Northern Italy. In this case, the speck came from Chiara's cottage pigs in Devon. The salty speck complemented the robust artichoke flavour, which paired perfectly with the scallops. Yes, I am drooling as I write this - where has speck been all my life?

Dan provided us with the evening’s main coursebarbecued lamb with lamb sauce finished with capers and pancetta, crispy lamb sweetbreads and Senshyu onions cooked in koji. (wine pairing: 2018 Chateaua Musar, Gaston Hochar). The lamb was cooked to perfection, served in just the right portion. The soft lamb's cheese provided a refreshing contrast to a rich, deep-flavoured sauce. That sauce was

Chiara

Dan

The Barley Mow

unbelievable. In the best way possible, it brought back memories of eating frazzles – the little bacon flavoured crisps – as a child; but here, obviously, far more complex. When a mouthful instantly brings back great childhood memories, you know the chef has truly succeeded.

And last but not least was George’s magnificent dessert: a salted chocolate crèmeux, smoked beef fat caramel, a double caramel mousse topped with vanilla ice cream and a hazelnut Tuile. Now, I have a confession: I’m the one person to pick the Galaxy caramels last in a Celebration box. I’d turn down a Mars bar if it was offered to me. It’s not that I don’t like caramel, but I certainly wouldn’t choose it on the menu. This, however, was the tastiest dessert I’ve had in recent memory. Maybe it was the ice cream that added a refreshing contrast to the rich flavours? Or perhaps it was the beef fat that triggered my inner carnivore? Either way, this dessert was a revelation.

The wonderful dishes from these star chefs were served with intervals of dishes from the Head Chef, Matt, including that hashbrown, butter pie and venison tartar appetiser. These were an equally exceptional standard, even alongside the MasterChef dishes, so be sure to expect high quality cuisine whenever you visit The Barley Mow.

With amazing dishes prepared by these talented chefs, each course gave new, creative and memorable flavours. The food, the thoughtful wine pairings, outstanding service and intimate atmosphere made for an unforgettable experience.

The Barley Mow

Everyone kept asking if we are friends outside of the series and we genuinely are. Thatʼs the magic of the competition that it brought together four people who would not have met otherwise and are now good friends. This is my first time in Lancashire and Iʼve loved it. The Barley Mow is beautiful and the countryside is everything I dreamt it would be, itʼs so calm here.

~ Gaston Savina ~

I've been to The Barley Mow before but never cooked here. I know the area really well already – I enjoy walking up Pendle Hill and love the surrounding area, it's really nice.

~ Dan Merriman ~

This is the furthest north Iʼve ever been in England and I definitely think the further north you get the friendlier people are. Everyone has been so lovely and welcoming. Weʼve been planning the event for the last five months and itʼs been lovely for the four of us to be back together.

~ Chiara Tomasoni ~

The Barley Mow

We caught up with George for an exclusive interview to find out more about his MasterChef experience

Congratulations on your success in the competition, how has life been since the show aired?

I’ve been blown away by the reaction! It’s been so much bigger than I ever thought it would be. The feeling around it has been so wholesome and positive. It’s done wonders for my career as it’s helped me and my partner Samira to set up The Epicurean Duo. We are based in Yorkshire but travel around the country providing private dining in people’s homes.

I’ve also been made head chef of the events division of TB Hospitality, so still working for Tommy Banks but instead of creating menus for under 40 people I’ll be working on events of 700 plus. I’m really excited by the challenge and can’t wait to get started. How did you find keeping your involvement in the series a secret before it was aired?

We filmed in the summer, which was good as there’s an abundance of ingredients. Between filming and it being aired though it was really hard to keep it a secret. Only my boss, Samira and my parents knew. When the first show aired, I got loads of shocked messages, there’s been nothing but love and positivity - it’s been amazing. And two Lancashire lads in the final! We must know about good food up north?

I definitely think people underestimate the food scene in the Northwest. There are so many fantastic places to eat and it’s amazing to be just a small part of that industry.

Your nickname ‘George from Burnley’ was prominent throughout the competition, how does it feel to be representing your birthplace on screen?

Burnley seems to be in the spotlight for lots of reasons like Bank of Dave and the football and it’s so cool to be a part of that culture and to be part of the positivity. You live in Yorkshire now but are there any places that you love eating at when you come home?

I love eating at The Barley Mow, of course! Matt, the head chef, trained at Northcote and he’s pushing the food to another level. It’s tasty and wholesome pub food but elevated. I also love Serrano’s Deli

in

so

know

a top

is a real golden treasure that people who love it almost don’t want anyone else to know about. What made you decide to come and hold an event at The Barley Mow?

We really wanted to get together and do an event and the finalists had all met my dad and heard about the pub, so it just felt like the right place to do it. It was amazing to be home and cook at the pub and to help put the area on the map. We had bookings from all over including Birmingham and London. Gaston has never known the English countryside so I couldn’t wait to show him the area.

Are there any more events in

the pipeline?

We’d love to do more events. Keep an eye on The Barley Mow Facebook and Instagram pages for updates!

Pizza

Padiham. I trained with Jacob from Serrano’s at Northcote,

I

he’s

chef. Serrano’s

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BURNLEY

BERTRAM’S RESTAURANT

gets the treatment STAR

Already known as a jewel in Burnley’s crown, Bertram’s Restaurant and cocktail bar at the Crow Wood Resort has taken things to the next level with a stunning £3 million refurbishment. And what better way to celebrate than by welcoming an array of celebrities and influencers to experience its transformation?

After indulging in Crow Wood’s luxurious spa, VIP guests, including Coronation Street’s Jodie Prenger, headed to Bertram’s to dine in style.

Jodie, who plays Glenda Shuttleworth on the iconic soap, was full of praise for the experience:

“We enjoyed a lovely, relaxing day in the spa before heading over to Bertram’s for a three-course meal. I’ve been lucky enough to dine in some amazing restaurants in cities including Manchester and London, and this was up there with the best. The food was outstanding, and the staff were really friendly and attentive. I’d never have thought to travel to Burnley, but we will definitely be back!”

A CITY-CHIC DESTINATION IN THE HEART OF LANCASHIRE

With its stylish new look, Bertram’s now exudes the atmosphere of a high-end city venue— without the hassle of travelling into Manchester and with plenty of parking. From the moment you step inside, you’re greeted with a beautifully designed space featuring the highest quality fittings, mood lighting, and plush décor that sets the perfect scene for a night of indulgence.

The extensive cocktail menu alone makes Bertram’s a destination, inviting guests to continue their evening long after their meal. Whether you’re in the mood for a perfectly crafted Negroni or an inventive signature creation, the bar ensures that the experience doesn’t just end with dinner.

Bertramʼs offers an unforgettable experience

BIGGER , BOLDER & BETTER THAN EVER!

A major part of the refurbishment was focused on expanding Bertram’s footprint by 35%, allowing it to welcome even more guests while maintaining its exclusive, adult-only ambience. The clever use of partitions means larger groups can celebrate together in different zones while still enjoying an intimate dining experience. But it’s behind the scenes where some of the most impressive transformations have taken place. The stateof-the-art kitchen, which accounts for £1.3 million of the total refurb cost, has increased five-fold in size. Owner Andrew Brown explains, “Throughout the resort, our staff welfare is paramount, and our chefs create such high-quality food—it was only right that we give them an equally high-standard space to work in.”

A MENU THAT PUTS

YOU

IN CONTROL

One of the most exciting changes is the new approach to the menu, which is now ‘all about the sides.’ Guests have the freedom to customise their dining experience, selecting the perfect accompaniments to complement their main dish. This flexibility makes it easier than ever to cater to dietary requirements and personal preferences without compromising on taste or quality.

Of course, Bertram’s remains multi-awardwinning, holding two AA Rosettes and just recently having received the accolade of Taste Lancashire Award—a testament to the consistently outstanding food and service. And with the new design seamlessly matching the culinary excellence, the restaurant is now an experience as much as a meal.

Whether you’re visiting for a relaxed lunch, an evening of fine dining, or simply for food and cocktails with friends, Bertram’s offers an unforgettable experience. With its elevated interiors, impeccable service, and next-level menu, there’s truly nothing like it this side of Manchester.

Bertramʼs

Head over to page 67 to find out how you could win a £100 voucher to spend on dinner for two.

Arrange

LOV WE CAME HERE FOR

It’s a question that couples have debated time and time again – where should we settle and forge a life together?

For those who already live in the same location, the answer might be an easy one. For those who live in different places, some may choose to set up their home in a completely new location to them both. But what happens if one half is adamant they’re not leaving where they live?

This is what happened in the cases of the following three couples, who all have one half who was proud to live in Burnley and didn’t want to move. In the name of love, their other halves packed up their lives and came to settle in the borough...but what do they think of Burnley now they’ve lived here for several years and do they regret their decisions?

OV O E

Let’s find out & meet some couples...

Alex Joe &

Joe Collins, who is director at Martin Collins Joinery, which is celebrating its 40th year in business. They are a main contractor offering construction, maintenance and specialist services across the north of England. Alex Gutman, the digital lead at Root Fifty-Two, a branding and marketing agency based at Slater Terrace.

WHO IS THE BURNLEY-BORN HALF?

Joe.

JOE, WHY DO YOU LOVE BURNLEY SO MUCH?

Burnley has a lot to offer when it comes to living and working here. The homes are affordable, which makes getting on the property ladder or finding a great rental that suits your needs a lot easier. It’s a place where you can strike a good work-life balance too - there’s something special about having green spaces and rural spots right on your doorstep, perfect for those who love a quieter pace of life or just enjoy a Sunday walk.

When it comes to careers, Burnley’s got a bit of everything. Whether you’re into construction, manufacturing, tech etc there are loads of opportunities to kick-start your career or move up the ladder. It’s the kind of town where you don’t have to commute for hours to find something fulfilling. Plus, it’s close enough to bigger cities like Manchester and Leeds if you ever want to mix things up without giving up the perks of small-town living.

As managing director of Martin Collins Joinery, Burnley is where I need to be to lead and grow the company. A lot of my family and friends live within Burnley and Alex and I live in a rural location on the outskirts of Burnley. Given that Alex’s family is based in London, it’s comforting to know that there are easy links for her to get back home i.e major motorway networks and train links.

WHERE DOES ALEX COME FROM AND WHAT WERE HER ORIGINAL THOUGHTS REGARDING MOVING TO BURNLEY?

I come from London and love the fact that Burnley is a small town with a lot of history. It also has the perfect blend of town and countryside. I didn’t have a job when I moved so applied wherever

I could, but I wasn’t disappointed by the career opportunities I was presented with when I was looking, and found a job within seven weeks of moving up from London. I was never pessimistic about moving either, I moved for a purpose and have never looked back.

HOW HAVE YOUR PERCEPTIONS CHANGED SINCE LIVING HERE?

With Joe operating a 24/7 reactive boarding-up service as one of the company’s emergency services, I was used to him receiving phone calls in the middle of the night from private customers, emergency services or other people requiring boarding-up. There were certain calls he would receive that worried me, as I never experienced those issues back home (obviously they occur everywhere, but I wasn’t privy to the ins and outs of them). However, over the years the volume of these calls has significantly decreased which is reassuring.

I just feel so privileged to live somewhere where my dogs can be off the lead from the moment they step outside the front door, and for us to go walking for hours on end and not see a soul. That’s my main focus and why I really enjoy living here – the lifestyle.

WHAT DID YOUR FRIENDS AND FAMILY SAY WHEN YOU TOLD THEM YOU WERE MOVING TO BURNLEY?

There are always going to be people back home who turn their noses up at Burnley – like anywhere, it’s not perfect, but the people are what make it. People outside of Burnley obviously haven’t experienced that warmth, and isn’t something Londoners in general ‘get’. If you say hello to someone when you’re out walking back home or if you make conversation with people in London, nine times out of ten you’re considered odd. Clearly I’ve

changed, because when I go home I’m constantly saying hello to people now!

WHY DOES BURNLEY MAKE A GREAT PLACE TO START A NEW LIFE TOGETHER?

Burnley offers affordable homes, a good work-life balance and rural settings to suit our lifestyle. There’s also a good variety of career opportunities within the borough, spanning various industries, which provide a great foot on the career ladder.

DO YOU SEE YOURSELF STAYING IN BURNLEY OR DO YOU HAVE PLANS TO TRAVEL OR MAYBE MOVE IN THE FUTURE?

We like to experience new places, so can’t say we will be in Burnley forever. Wherever we end up living, we’ll always come back for work and to see friends and family.

WHAT ARE YOUR FAVOURITE PLACES TO GO ON A DATE?

We enjoy going for a coffee and walking the dogs in Towneley Park, but for evening dates we also like Wills in Barrowford, Tubbs in Colne, and like to venture towards Howarth or restaurants further afield.

AS A COUPLE, WHAT HAVE YOU GOT PLANNED OVER THE NEXT 12 MONTHS?

We’re currently in the process of finishing renovating our home; pre1900s cottages knocked into one, which we’ve completely gutted over the last 18 months and restored. Joe’s completing the Yorkshire 3 Peaks in March for Andy’s Man Club. Other than that, Joe’s work is continuing to grow year on year so we’ll be busy fulfilling the needs of the business with a few holidays in the mix.

Joe (Burnley) Alex (originally London)

Andrea, (Helmshore)

WHO IS THE BURNLEY-BORN HALF?

Andrea is originally from Helmshore but her mum moved to Burnley first.

ANDREA, WHY DO YOU LOVE BURNLEY SO MUCH?

I’m originally from Helmshore, but was living in Accrington when I met Ross. My mum had moved to Burnley, which meant we were spending a lot of time there and Ross played football for Padiham. I just felt at home in Burnley and made so many wonderful friends so we decided to move here.

WHERE DOES ROSS COME FROM AND WHAT WERE HIS ORIGINAL THOUGHTS REGARDING MOVING TO BURNLEY?

I’m originally from Basingstoke, we met on holiday in Kavos in 2001. The original plan was for Andrea to move down south, but I loved being up in Burnley while visiting. With the cost of living differences between Burnley and the south, it was a no brainer for me to move here. We did buy our first house in Accrington as that’s where Andrea was, but after spending so much time in Burnley, we moved after only a year.

HOW HAVE YOUR PERCEPTIONS CHANGED SINCE LIVING HERE?

They haven’t. I still believe that people in Burnley are so friendly and welcoming and they’ve really supported me and my business. Wherever you go, there’s beautiful countryside and I still think The Palazzo is one of the best restaurants.

WHAT DID YOUR FRIENDS AND FAMILY SAY WHEN YOU TOLD THEM YOU WERE MOVING TO BURNLEY?

Ross's mum and dad were naturally sad for him to move so far away but knew it was something he had

Ross (originally Basingstoke)

to do. His parents actually decided to sell up down south and move to Burnley themselves when our first child was born. They fit straight in!

WHY DOES BURNLEY MAKE A GREAT PLACE TO START A NEW LIFE TOGETHER?

There are plenty of reasons. The housing is affordable, it offers a great work-life balance, there’s great jobs here and we love being surrounded by countryside.

DO YOU SEE YOURSELF STAYING IN BURNLEY OR DO YOU HAVE PLANS TO TRAVEL OR MAYBE MOVE IN THE FUTURE?

We have no plans at all to move away, everything works perfectly for ourselves and our three children. It just all works for our jobs, friends, schooling and our social life.

Andrea &Ross

Ross Barnham, (originally Basingstoke) and Andrea Barnham (originally Helmshore then Burnley via Accrington!) Andrea works for the NHS as a practice manager and Ross owns a window blinds and shutters business called 'Barnhams Blinds & Shutters Ltd'. It supplies and installs all types of window blinds and plantation shutters.

WHAT ARE YOUR FAVOURITE PLACES TO GO ON A DATE?

The borough has some great restaurants, but we particularly like The Palazzo and Wilfred’s.

AS A COUPLE, WHAT HAVE YOU GOT PLANNED OVER THE NEXT 12 MONTHS?

We are just in the process of looking to extend our family home, using fantastic local tradespeople.

CO CKERS SP ORTS HITS THE BULLSEYE FOR DARTS GEAR

Cockers Sports, Burnley’s oldest sports shop, has been serving the local community since 1889. Founded by Herbert Dronsfield as H.D. Cocker and Sons, the family business started on Keirby Walk before relocating to its current location at Maltings Mill on Sandygate in 2017.

Managed over the years by several generations of the Cocker family - including Albert, Ken Keith, and Gary-the shop is now run by Craig Cocker. Originally focusing on shoe repairs, the business expanded its offerings to include clothing, rain jackets, and an extensive range of sporting goods.

Today, Cockers Sports provides a wide selection of sports equipment, including; darts, snooker, rugby, cricket, golf, boxing, pickleball, swimming, and even ski gear and rentals.

Darts, in particular, has seen a significant surge in popularity, driven by the success of young darts prodigy Luke Littler. His achievements have sparked an increase in demand, especially from families. Craig explained to Burnley Lifestyle

that on weekends they now see up to 15 families visiting the shop to purchase darts equipment.

Littler's remarkable rise at such a young age has inspired many young players and their families to try darts, showing that age is no barrier to success. As darts continues to grow, more family-friendly events and tournaments have emerged, offering fun and interactive opportunities for all ages.

Darts has become more than just a professional sport - it’s now a fun, accessible activity that families can enjoy together. Social media platforms like Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok have further boosted the sport's popularity, with players like Littler and others sharing challenges, family competitions, and tutorials. Additionally, darts has crossed into the gaming world, with video games and apps making it easier for families to practice and play at home. Popular games like PDC World Darts Championship and various dartsimulation apps allow families to enjoy the sport virtually before heading to the dartboard.

Darts is one of the easiest sports to set up at home. All you need is a dartboard and a set of darts— something Cockers Sports is more than happy to provide you with a wide variety of dart weights and styles, the shop ensures that players of all ages and skill levels can find the right equipment to enjoy the game. Whether you’re an experienced player or just starting, Cockers Sports is the place to go for all your darts needs, continuing its legacy of supporting both seasoned athletes and families looking for fun and engaging activities. With the rise of darts, the shop has proven once again that it’s more than just a regular sports store.

Does your 12-18 year-old want to get into darts?

For 12-18 year-olds wanting to enjoy darts in a family friendly environment Burnley FC in the Community is running sessions at The Leisure Box, at Northlight, Brierfield BB9 5NH. Sessions will be running all year, term time only, every Friday from 5:30pm to 6:30pm.

Youth Engagement Manager, Lewis Hickie said: “We have found that young people are eager to get involved with darts but don't know where to start. We hope our sessions will provide them with a fun, free platform to enter the sport and remove the stigma around darts being just a pub game.”

If you’d like to book a place email kicks@burnleyfc.com.

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From setbacks

TO S TA R D OM :

How Burnley College's Fitness Evolution helped launch Ross Sykes' football career

Professional footballer Ross Sykes’ rise to the top is a story of grit, determination and unwavering support. But behind the scenes of his ascent from a struggling youth to a key signing for Belgian club Union Saint-Gilloise lies an unexpected heroBurnley College's Fitness Evolution Strength and Conditioning training facilities. It's here that Ross honed his strength, turning career setbacks into a platform for success.

Early challenges and a defining breakthrough

Ross dreamed of a career in football. That dream, however, faced its first major hurdle when he was released from Burnley's youth academy as a teenager.

"Hearing I wasn’t being kept on was heartbreaking," Ross admits. "I began questioning everything - was I good enough? Could I make it?" But as many great athletes have shown, setbacks often pave the way for success.

Not one to give up, Ross found a new opportunity with Accrington Stanley after his mother encouraged him to trial at the club, where he began to rebuild his confidence. Slowly, his resilience paid off. He worked hard, impressing coaches, but Ross knew that to truly establish himself in professional football and make the first team, he needed to elevate his fitness and conditioning. That’s where Burnley College's Fitness Evolution entered the picture.

Transformation at Fitness Evolution

Burnley College’s Fitness Evolution Strength and Conditioning facilities are widely regarded as some of the finest in the region, boasting state-of-the-art equipment like the Cryotherapy Chamber and Environmental Suite; facilities rarely seen in college settings. The specialist staff are dedicated to helping individuals reach their peak potential. For Ross, this space became more than just a gym - it was a turning point in his career.

"Fitness Evolution wasn’t like any other place I’d trained at," Ross explains. "It wasn’t just about lifting weights or running on a treadmill; it was about understanding my body, my strengths and where I needed to improve. Everyone there genuinely cared about helping me succeed."

Ross worked closely with key mentors at the facility, including Ash Alderson who played a pivotal role in shaping his fitness regime. Ash developed customised training programmes tailored to Ross’s specific needs as a footballer. Meanwhile, experts in rehabilitation ensured that Ross stayed injury-free while pushing his limits.

"They didn’t just tell me what to do - they explained why it mattered," Ross shares. "That made all the difference. Ash taught me to train smart, not just hard."

Cutting-edge training programmes and facilities

At Fitness Evolution, Ross had access to transformative resources that rivalled those of top professional clubs. The facility’s high-performance gym includes a range of equipment designed to maximise strength and agility, essential qualities for a centre-back like Ross.

One of the standout aspects of his training was the use of sport-specific strength drills. Ross credits his improved ability on the pitch to these customised workouts, designed to increase strength and power.

The facility also features cutting-edge recovery technologies, which Ross incorporated into his routine to stay

fresh through demanding training schedules. For a young player navigating the physically demanding world of professional football, these tools became invaluable.

Beyond the equipment and expertise, Ross says the positive atmosphere really stood out to him. "There was this buzz," he says. "Everyone, from students to staff, were motivated to push boundaries and be their best."

Carrying lessons to the international stage

Ross’s hard work paid off. After cementing his place in the first team at Accrington Stanley, his performances caught the attention of Belgian Pro League side Union Saint-Gilloise, which led to a four-year contract with the club in 2022. Last autumn, he signed an extended deal to keep him with the club until 2027. He continues to incorporate the lessons and training methods he learned at Fitness Evolution. During international breaks when he is back in Burnley, he returns to Fitness Evolution to utilise the facilities and continue his training regime.

Earlier this season, after suffering a small fracture in his foot, Ross returned to England, where he was able to continue training using the environment chamber at Fitness Evolution to cycle with his boot on. With the added benefit of cryotherapy to regenerate his muscles, he achieved an impressive two-month recovery before he was back to full fitness playing topflight football.

"My time there shaped how I approach fitness today," Ross says. "Even now, I still use a lot of the exercises they taught me. It's not just about the physical work but having the mindset to continually improve. That really stuck with me."

Ross proudly attributes his professional approach to training to his time at Burnley College. "The discipline and attention to detail I learned at Fitness Evolution definitely gave me an edge," he says.

Ross’ story shows that with hard work and the right guidance, even the toughest challenges can lead to extraordinary achievements.

Did you know?

Students at Burnley College who compete at a high level in their chosen sport can apply to the Elite Athlete Programme, designed by professional athletes for the professional athletes of the future.

Students on the Elite Athlete Programme have an international reputation for

success, competing for places in the Team GB Olympic squad, representing Team GB in the Junior Commonwealth Games and representing the College, region and country in global sports competitions. Find out more at burnley.ac.uk/ about/sports-enrichment.

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Friends of Ightenhill Park

Burnley is well known for its fantastic parks - we have six all with Green Flag status in the borough. Our parks are managed by Burnley Council’s Green Spaces team, but did you know that many also have dedicated groups of volunteers who work tirelessly to help keep them looking fantastic all year round? We met up with Ida Carmichael, secretary of the Friends of Ightenhill Park, to find out more.

TIME F OR T EA?

Burnley is a vibrant borough with its heartbeat resonating far beyond the bustling town centres of Burnley and Padiham. Head up Padiham Road from Burnley town centre and you’ll find the area of Ightenhill, which is home to an array of small businesses. Among the hidden gems in this area is Muddy Boots and Puddle Ducks, a tearoom that has quickly become a beloved fixture since its opening in July 2024.

A TEAROOM WITH A STORY

Muddy Boots and Puddle Ducks isn’t just a tearoom; it’s a heartfelt homage to family and local heritage. Lisa Hill, the passionate owner, drew inspiration from her 91-yearold grandmother, Mavis, a resilient woman with a zest for life and a love for rambling. “Grandma has always been a keen rambler, so much so that she was given the nickname muddy boots, which is what inspired the name,” Lisa shares. “She’s a real inspiration to our family having battled cancer in her 80s and had a kidney removed but she’s a real fighter. She’s absolutely phenomenal.”

Naming the tearoom after her grandmother was a poignant decision for Lisa. Located just a stone’s throw from where Mavis grew up, the tearoom is a testament to family roots and shared memories. The menu itself is a delightful nod to Mavis’s rambles, featuring dishes like The Rambler’s Rucksack and Mrs Potter’s Picnic each with its unique backstory.

A FAMILY AFFAIR

Muddy Boots is a true family enterprise. Lisa, with a background in education, decided to follow her long-held dream of opening a tearoom after years of working with children in alternative provision. “I loved teaching but always dreamed of creating a space where people could relax and enjoy good food,” she explains.

Lisa’s husband, Warren, lends a hand on weekends, while their daughters, Olivia and Alicia, are integral to the daily operations. Alicia’s baking prowess is evident in the array of delicious cakes and treats that tempt visitors, while Olivia balances her university studies with part-time work at the tearoom. Son Elliot is studying at university but worked hard on the building’s renovation and on his visits home he enjoys a latte and sampling the Nutella waffles whilst socialising with the tearoom’s regulars.

The tearoom’s transformation from a vacant shell into a cosy haven was a labour of love, with family and friends pitching in to renovate the space. “Everything you see in here we did ourselves,” says Lisa proudly, a testament to the handson, personal touch that defines the tearoom’s charm.

MORE THAN JUST TEA

Beyond serving delicious food, Muddy Boots and Puddle Ducks is a community cornerstone. Lisa’s passion for nurturing extends beyond her previous teaching role, creating a welcoming environment where locals can gather and connect. The tearoom hosts a variety of events, from crafting sessions and book clubs to children’s parties and seasonal celebrations. Judith, a retired local who now leads watercolour sessions, found a new purpose and community through her involvement with the tearoom. These activities foster a sense of belonging and provide a creative outlet for attendees, from slow stitch crafting to duck painting parties for kids.

A HUB FOR CELEBRATIONS

Whether it’s a hen party brunch or a child’s cupcake baking party, Muddy Boots and Puddle Ducks offers a personalised touch to every event. Lisa’s background in education shines through as she crafts engaging and child-led experiences. “We’ve done everything from jewellery parties to themed events like Polar Express film nights,” Lisa says. The tearoom’s intimate space becomes a canvas for creativity, making each celebration memorable.

COMMUNITY AT ITS CORE

Lisa’s dedication to fostering community spirit is evident in every aspect of Muddy Boots and Puddle Ducks. The tearoom’s beautifully decorated window displays, changing with the seasons, invite passersby to stop and chat, further embedding the tearoom into the fabric of the local community.

Local produce plays a significant role in the tearoom’s offerings, with honey sourced from Brunshaw Bees flying off the shelves. “It’s great for allergies and adds a local touch to our menu,” Lisa explains.

wine & dine

Our staff are like family, and we couldn't do it without them

Edwards Farm Butchers

– still sizzling after 43 years in business

If the beautiful exterior at Muddy Boots caught your attention, then you’ve no doubt also spotted Edwards Farm Butchers just a couple of doors away, and who use the same artist to create their window displays.

The butchers were founded in Nelson in the early 1960s by Derek Edwards who was later joined by his son Gordon before buying the shop on Padiham Road, Burnley in 1982. A true family affair - Derek’s wife Joyce worked in the shop until she passed away in 2004 whilst Gordon’s wife Anne has been serving customers for the last 40 years.

Gordon now runs the farm side of the business in Higham which provides some of the meat for the butchers, which is run by son Nathan. Nathan says: “We pride ourselves on selling high quality meats and we set high standards in the things we do which is highly dependent on our excellent, friendly and helpful staff. Our staff are like family, and we couldn't do it without them.”

It is no doubt that the warm welcome provided by staff has helped Edwards build a loyal customer base across Burnley and beyond, helped by the vast product selection which keeps people coming back. As well as the usual cuts of meat you’d expect from a butcher Edwards also sell meal solutions such as pies, award winning sausages, traditional cuts and a very large range of ready meals. They even provide a ‘healthy start pack’ with a selection of leaner cuts of meat for those on a health kick.

Visit Edwards Farm Butchers at 338 Padiham Road, Burnley BB12 6ST and follow them on Facebook to keep up to date with the latest offers.

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