Welcome to the May edition of the magazine. I hope that you are all healthy and life is good. It is still very tough for everyone with the current economic climate and the fragile state of the planet - so please continue to use the local businesses, shops, tradesmen and services that advertise in the magazine - it really does help our local economy, the local employment situation and ultimately the planet when you do.
The Technology page with Helen Gill offers insights into the digital world and real world too if you want to pop along to Six: Above & Below Art Exhibition at Brew Cafe in Hull - turn to page 4 for more info. We also have a varied range of topics in this edition for your enjoyment including the House and Home Feature which looks at Decorating Myths. We also have our usual round up of all the New Books to read this month and much more.
WIN GIG TICKETS - PAGE 28 and find out What’s On
The Motoring Column looks at the Skoda Elroq and we have Health Advice for Mid-Life Women on page 24 and some interesting Facts & Figures for you on page 26.
In Sarah Kings’ monthly Gardening column she takes a broad look at Gardening / Flowers / Vegetables. The Food & Drink section has two delicious recipes for you to try at home. We also have some great advice for all you Wine drinkers on page 22. As usual we finish with Fiona Dwyer’s ‘Food for thought’
Until the next edition please look after yourselves.
Jane Editor
Magazine Team
Managing Director: Nic Gough. Sales Director & Editor: Jane Gough.
Advertising Sales: Sarah Thomas. Distribution Manager: Phil Hiscott. Finance Manager: JP Kinnersley.
Designers: Mervyn King, Adam Jacobs. Photography: Clash Pix.
Contributors: Fiona Dwyer, Sarah King, Rebekah Robinson, Helen Gill, Hugo G Salochin, Frances Lindley, Elliot Johnson, Chris Warkup.
By Helen Gill - Entrepreneur | AR Artist | Educator
Hi, I’m Helen, this month, I’m diving into the power of perception how it influences what we believe, how we create, and how we connect in a world where not everything is as it seems.
Perception in a Digital World
Did anyone get caught out this April Fools’ Day? These days, it feels like we’re second-guessing everything not just on April 1st. With so much content online, we’re constantly on guard, asking: Is this real, fake, or just cleverly edited?
Back in 1980, the BBC famously announced that Big Ben was going digital, complete with beeps instead of bongs and a new name: ‘Digital Dave’. It was a classic April Fools’ prank, and plenty of people believed it. Why? Because back then, we trusted what we saw.
Fast forward to today, and it’s not so easy to tell what’s real and what’s not. Our social feeds are filled with AI-generated content, deepfake videos, fake profiles, and heavily edited images. Many of them look convincing at first glance and that’s what makes them so powerful.
We’ve become more suspicious, more cautious often questioning what we see before we believe it. But what one person might perceive as real, another may instantly spot as fake. That’s the tricky thing about perception it’s personal, shaped by experience, awareness, and context. And while staying curious is important, we also need new skills to help us navigate this digital world with clarity and confidence.
That’s why we need more than just curiosity. We need:
• Creative and critical thinking
• Digital and visual literacy
• Creativity and the confidence to pause and look again
Through my work with Reel Creative, a charity helping young people build digital and creative confidence, we explore exactly that. We work with young people to help them understand how content is created using tools like AI, video editing, and digital design apps. But more importantly, we give them the confidence to question what they see, and the skills to express their own ideas clearly and creatively.
The Art of MarketingThe Hull Business Expo, Hull
In April, we brought that message to life at the The Hull Business Expo in Princes Quay, teaming up with Reel Creative and Init Creative.
Our stand featured the Art of Marketing canvas a collaborative artwork inviting visitors to reflect on how they view their business and values. Some people drew logos, some painted patterns, and others simply played with colour and shapes.
Most started by saying, “I’m not very creative.” But after a little encouragement, they were proudly adding their piece to the canvas. It was a lovely reminder that creativity isn’t about being perfect it’s about expressing something personal.
And in a world where AI is becoming more capable by the day, it also reminded us of something even more important: human creativity still matters most. Our ideas, emotions, and perspectives can’t be replicated.
Six: Above & Below Art Exhibition
That same theme continues in our upcoming exhibition, Six: Above & Below, opening 31st May at Brew Cafe, Bond St, Hull HU1 3EN. Inspired in part by Hull’s maritime heritage, the exhibition invites viewers to consider what lies above the surface and what’s hidden below. Just like the sea, where so much remains unseen, art is shaped by how we look at it, not just what’s in front of us.
Six local artists including myself, will explore these ideas through painting, texture, and mixed media. One of the featured artists, Sareena, creates spontaneously expressing emotion onto painting which results in abstract moving into something more figurative and recognisable. She doesn’t paint them deliberately they appear depending on how you see it. Look closely at this art named ‘Bempton Cliffs’ what do you see?
It’s the perfect reminder that perception shapes meaning in art, in nature, and in how we connect with one another. So next time something catches your eye, whether it’s a photo, a painting, or a digital post take a moment to slow down. Perception isn’t just about how we see, it’s how we make sense of the world. It helps us stay creative, stay connected and stay safe.
Pause. Look again. What do you see?
Area Manager
House & Home
Twenty Decorating Myths Debunked
DECORATING DOESN’T HAVE TO BE A MINEFIELD OF DOS AND DON’TS. TUNE OUT ALL THE NAYSAYERS BY CREATING AN INTERIOR THAT SPEAKS TO YOU
Ever heard the design rule that states large furniture can’t be used in small rooms? Or that patterns and prints shouldn’t be mixed?
The world of decorating is full of myths and misconceptions, often setting such rigid expectations that there’s little room for creativity.
Navigating these no-go zones can be frustrating and disheartening but that doesn’t have to be the way. Allow us to poke holes in some of the more outdated notions so you can be free to create a home that represents your style, and most of all, makes you happy.
1 Blinds trump curtains
Myth busted: When it comes to window treatments, there is no one-size-fits-all approach, however, if interior designer Gabrielle Rice had to choose one option, curtains would win hands down.
“Custom curtains are not only functional, either defusing or blocking the light, they also add softness to a room,” she says.
“Curtains provide warmth and insulation in winter and help block
out the sun and heat in summer.”
Gabrielle likes to specify sheer curtains with partial or black-out lining on a separate track: “The sheers are ethereal and soft and the lining is for functionality.”
Grain & Grace is a family-run workshop in East Yorkshire, crafting luxury handmade furniture that blends timeless design with personal storytelling.
Founded by skilled craftsman Tim, each bespoke piece—ranging from coffee tables to office furniture is meticulously made using sustainably sourced FSC and PEFC-certified wood.
Clients can choose from a variety of finishes, including lacquer, oils, paint, or natural wood, ensuring each item is tailored to individual tastes.
With a commitment to quality and sustainability, Grain & Grace transforms living spaces with furniture that is both elegant and enduring.
For more information or to request a quote, visit their website: https://www.grainandgrace.co.uk/ or contact them directly at 01482 961202
2 Wallpaper is a big commitment
Myth busted: For our parents and grandparents, this was certainly true, with copious amounts of glue and patience required to apply wallpaper, and expensive steamers needed to remove it. But today’s wallpapers are much easier to apply and remove, with a huge variety of textures, patterns, colours and finishes.
“I love using wallpaper in studies, bedrooms, lounge rooms, dining rooms and even in laundries and bathrooms,” says Gabrielle. “A study nook, pantry or a powder room can be a great place to ease your way into this look.”
3 You can’t have nice things if you have children or pets
Myth busted: That white linen sofa, leather armchair or shag pile rug that you’ve always wanted but didn’t trust your kids and fur babies around? Buy it now, says Gabrielle. “If you wait until your kids grow up to have nice things, you’ll miss out on creating a beautiful home for you and your family to enjoy together.” If there were studies into these things, they’d probably show that children and pets who are exposed to precious items from a young age grow up to be more mindful of their surroundings.
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And in the meantime, Gabrielle suggests using washable fabrics, coasters, placemats and some firm ground rules to protect your belongings.
4 Natural light is best Myth busted: While natural light is an eco-friendly, efficient way to light and warm a home, in some situations artificial light
may be preferable for visibility and functionality, says interior designer Kate Waller. “Artificial light can be a useful tool in situations where natural light is limited or unavailable, or when a specific mood is desired,” she says. “It’s ideal
for highlighting specific elements in a room, like artworks or architectural features, and can also control and manipulate the ambience and mood, with dimmers adjusting the intensity of light.”
5 Symmetry is key Myth busted: Using symmetry in decorating stems from a more traditional style, where rooms were split in two and each half designed to mirror the other. But if you’re after a more relaxed mood for your home, “Feel free to forgo the symmetry in favour of less structured arrangements with more variety”, says Gabrielle. She
keeps disparate elements cohesive by incorporating a common thread, such as a consistent colour palette or repetition of forms, while also ensuring there are moments for the eye to rest. “Negative space plays an important role in asymmetrical design,” Gabrielle explains.
6 Period homes must be white Myth busted: While white is synonymous with the classic elegance of Victorian style, Kate Waller argues that the success of this aesthetic lies in its balanced blend of hues. “Incorporating different tones and textures will add depth and interest to the overall design, whilst maintaining a
sophisticated elegance. Try timber and wicker furniture set on dark timber floors with highlights of soft blue, sage green and sandy beige.”
7 Books belong on bookshelves Myth busted: Your favourite coffee table tomes and page turners don’t have to be relegated to a shelf to gather dust. Stack them on the floor, on a fireplace mantel, in the kitchen or on your office desk. “Books are always an arm length away in my home,” says Gabrielle. “They are one of my greatest sources of inspiration and there is no place they don’t belong. It would be sad if they all lived on a bookshelf.”
Continued on Page 10
8 Don’t mix patterns and prints
Myth busted: There is no better way to add character to a room than by layering it with a mix of prints, colours and textures. “If everything is too coordinated or matching, it just looks flat or overly prescribed,” says Gabrielle. Her top tip: “When designing a room, I choose a hero fabric or large-scale print with a number of colours in it
and then combine this with other colours and smaller scale prints. If the scheme is looking too ‘samey’, I’ll throw in the colour pink as I find pink just makes everything work.”
9 Art is an expensive investment Myth busted: Sure, an original Van Gogh may not be in your budget, but beauty is in the eye of the beholder and art comes
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in all shapes and styles. “My recommendation for selecting art is to spend time sourcing as widely as possible, from local art galleries and artists, to country fairs or markets,” says interior designer Kate. For her,
it’s about the feeling that the piece provokes, not its price tag. “My particular favourites are small still life pieces, which often capture a delicious, serendipitous moment in time.”
10 Decorate for resale Myth busted: It’s often suggested that design and decorating decisions should be made with future buyers in mind – think allwhite kitchens, neutral palettes and universal lighting schemes – but there is little value in this, says Kate. “I tell my clients – including those who are not in their forever home – to style spaces with their own personal preferences and needs in mind,” she says. “The next owner might be completely different to them in age, preferred aesthetic and number, so there is no way of knowing what hey will require in terms of style, finishes and colours. However, what is appealing to any buyer is an interior that’s well designed with good flow, functionality and elegance.”
Continued on Page 12
11 Small room = Small furniture
Myth busted: Getting the scale of furniture right in a room is so important, but as Gabrielle explains, “Lots of small furniture in a small room can make it feel even smaller and cluttered”. Instead, she likes to choose a larger statement or hero piece, such as a deep sofa or oversized floor lamp, and play around with different scales. “For a really small room, consider built-in furniture that makes use of all available space and also serves a dual purpose, such as a built-in sofa with storage underneath,” she says.
12 Renting restricts creativity
Myth busted: Not so, says Kate Waller. Just because you’re a renter, you don’t have to put up with a bland interior or your landlord’s design decisions. “Go bold with colour choices in your bedding, furniture and accessories,” she says. “Make your rug the artwork rather than having to use the walls or invest in feature lighting to create cosiness; lighting can truly transform a space into a home.”
13 Dark colours don’t belong in small spaces
Myth busted: The general
consensus is that white walls will make a small room feel larger, but Gabrielle argues that small spaces need a “wow” moment even more than larger rooms. “Colour is one of the easiest ways to deliver this,” she says. “In small bathrooms and powder rooms, limit the number of finishes so the room doesn’t feel busy and instead choose one amazing colour for the walls for high impact.”
14 Bedrooms are just for sleeping Myth busted: While we are firm advocates for getting our eight hours of shut-eye each night, bedrooms are now becoming multi-purpose spaces for work, relaxation and play. “In a busy
household with young children, the parents’ retreat is just that – a place to escape and take a break from the busyness of life,” says Gabrielle. “For small children, a bedroom is where they play and retreat into their own creative worlds. And a teenager’s bedroom is where they can have time to themselves.” While selecting the right bed is important, there are certainly other elements to consider, too.
15 Country homes should be rustic
Myth busted: “Country homes ideally reflect their surroundings and are also inspired by the
textures and tones of nature,” says Louise Romans of Two Four Interiors. While traditional country cottages tend to favour eclectic homewares and chintzy fabrics, today’s more modern interpretations are pared-back in style and form. By leaning in to organic and earthy materials and finishes, they complement the natural surroundings. “Modern homes with clean lines and a material palette of timbers and textures ooze relaxed country without the need to be ‘rustic’,” she adds.
16 New homes deserve new furniture
Myth busted: If you’re building from scratch or moving into a new home, it can be tempting
to sell everything you own and start afresh. But Kate cautions against this. “It’s really nice to have pieces that stay with you for a lifetime,” she says. “By all means, add some new pieces into the mix, but hang onto those old treasures, too. That’s what makes a house a home.”
Not only is this approach more economical but it’s sustainable as well. And if those benefits aren’t enough to convince you, consider that you might end up with a few family heirlooms to pass on to grown children.
17 It’s better to decorate all in one go
Myth busted: While it’s good to have a clear plan and idea of the look and feel you’d like for your
home, decorating is a gradual process, says Gabrielle. “As time marches on and families grow, your needs will change, so I believe in changing and adding pieces to suit your lifestyle and situation.” Lighting, accessories, books and art are all good ways to add personality, comfort and interest to an evolving interior.
18 DIY is cheaper
Myth busted: Many small jobs like repainting the front door, changing a light fitting or putting together a flat-pack bookshelf can be tackled by anyone with the right tools and know-how, but if you’re renovating on a larger scale, engaging a good interior designer or decorator could be the most cost-effective decision you make. “An interior designer has professional expertise and experience to help you avoid costly errors, can save you time and stress and can manage the budget, planning and coordination of your project for you,” says Kate Waller. They might also be able to pass on some trade discounts not available to the general public – ca-ching!
19 Style over comfort
Myth busted: While a pleasing aesthetic is an important part of any home design, extended time spent at home during Covid and ever since has seen a big shift towards cosy spaces that breed relaxation. “The need to be able to walk into our homes and relax into our favourite chair or sofa is a must in our busy lives,” says Louise.
20 Laundries don’t need to be beautiful
Myth busted: Typically considered to be functional, rudimentary and utilitarian spaces, laundries often don’t get a look-in when it comes to decorating. But Kate Waller is keen to change this. “A well designed laundry can be both functional and aesthetically pleasing,” she says. Materials, storage and lighting can all be chosen for their look as well as function. “Then add decorative elements, such as an appealing colour scheme that matches your home’s decor, some feature tiles or wallpaper,” says Kate. “Don’t be afraid to feature artwork to bring the space to life.”
How They Entertain
by
Pierre Sauvage
Admit it: we all love a wee bit of insider knowledge – a juicy nugget from the experts that makes you sit up and say, “Well, I didn’t know that.” This new book by Pierre Sauvage, head of eclectic homewares brand Casa Lopez, is crammed full of such tips. Sauvage has traversed the globe, visiting the homes of 20 tastemakers, and giving us lucky readers a chance to see how they welcome their guests. Take a stroll through interior designer Muriel Brandolini’s Parisian piedà-terre, or jewellery designer Rebecca de Ravenel’s sun-scorched studio in Estoril; each host shares their ideas for tablescaping, fl oral arrangements and how to dress a home for your next gathering. There’s even a selection of mouth watering recipes to really wow the crowd.
signifi cant buildings by the likes of Frank Lloyd Wright and Frank Gehry, it also has many cutting edge contemporary homes too. This new book by interiors writer Corynne Pless celebrates the eclectic fusion that results from this collision between past and present, embracing everything from Spanish colonial and midcentury modern to Hollywood glamour.
together entries from the 28 notebooks he’s kept over the last two and a half decades. These are diary entries with a difference, though; the self-taught painter has always kept a record of his observations – a kind of pictorial logbook of the places he has been and the things he has seen, whether that’s a Norwegian fjord or an Orcadian standing stone circle. The subject-matter may be personal, but Hughes’s generosity means these painterly yet precise depictions can now be enjoyed by all.
Town and Country by Isabel López-Quesada
Photographers Tim Hirschmann and Ye Rin Mok also bring to life the connection to the outdoors that each of these projects enjoys, and capture a real sense of the city’s spirit.
Houses by Peter Ivens
The best designers consider architecture and interiors together and work with them as one.
The Irish Country House by Heather Parry
If, like me, you’re a bit of a romantic, this is a gem of a book to curl up with on a cosy autumn evening. Not only does it bring together stunning photography of a host of swoon-worthy homes (some beautifully marked by age, others impeccably restored),
Belgium’s Peter Ivens is a master of doing exactly that, and has been responsible for some truly outstanding house designs throughout his career.
but the accompanying stories of their eccentric inhabitants, aristocratic guests and architecturally ambitious augmentations over the centuries combine to make this the sort of coff ee-table book that’s worth dipping into for more than the pictures. These are not just Ireland’s best stately homes; rather, they reveal the cultural, historical and personal elements that blend to make these ‘Big Houses’ such valuable assets.
Los Angeles Interiors by Corynne
Pless
There’s a distinct split when it comes to California’s buildings, and nowhere is this more visible than in Los Angeles. Not only does the city have iconic and architecturally
Together with partner Bea Mombaers, he strives to give each client a ‘custom-made’ home – a place that tells the owner’s stories and reflects their personality. This beautifully photographed book gives us privileged access to Ivens’ portfolio; a subdued and pared-back collection of projects that speak of his commitment to quiet luxury. There are no gimmicks here, just elegant and understated style that extends a sense of calm and tranquillity to both the reader and the lucky homeowner.
Philip Hughes: Notebooks
Would you sneak a peek at someone’s diary if you were given the chance?
British artist Philip Hughes wouldn’t mind – in fact, for this book he has gathered
This is the second volume from Spain’s beloved doyenne of interior design. While the first edition was a celebration of Isabel López-Quesada’s own homes and studio, this one looks outwards, focusing on some of the many projects she has completed for clients all over the world. With four decades’ worth of work to choose from, narrowing down the selection can’t have been easy. But López-Quesada, who describes herself as being on ‘an eternal quest for beauty’, has picked out her best ‘town’ jobs and her favourite ‘country’ homes. And thanks to her long-term collaborator, photographer Miguel Flores-Vianna, we can explore them here in all their impressive detail.
Story Of A Murder: The Wives, The Mistress And Dr Crippen by Hallie Rubenhold
Hallie Rubenhold is the number one Sunday Times bestselling author of The Five: The Untold Lives of the Women Killed by Jack the Ripper. Now the social historian is back with another deep dive.
On 1st February 1910, vivacious music-hall performer Belle Elmore vanished from her north London home, causing alarm among her circle of female friends, who demanded an immediate investigation. They could not have known what they would provoke: the unearthing of a gruesome
secret, followed by a fevered manhunt for the prime suspect –Belle’s husband, medical fraudster Dr Hawley Harvey Crippen. Hiding in the shadows of this tale is Crippen’s typist and lover, Ethel Le Neve – was she really just ‘an innocent young girl’ in thrall to a powerful older man as so many people have since reported? In this examination of one of the most infamous murders of the 20th century, Rubenhold gives voice to those who have never properly been heard – the women. Featuring a cast of eccentric entertainers, glamorous lawyers, zealous detectives, medics and liars, this is a meticulously researched and multilayered read.
Universality by Natasha Brown
This is Brown’s follow up to her acclaimed debut novel Assembly. On a Yorkshire farm, a man is brutally bludgeoned with a solid gold bar. A young journalist sets out to uncover the truth surrounding the attack, connecting the dots between an amoral banker landlord, an iconoclastic columnist and a radical anarchist movement. She solves the mystery, but her viral long read exposé raises more questions than it answers.
Through a voyeuristic lens, this book focuses on words: what we say, how we say it – and what we really mean.
Air
by John Boyne
Being 30,000 feet in the air offers time to reflect and take stock. For Aaron Umber, it’s an opportunity to connect with his 14-year-old son as they travel halfway across the world to meet a woman who isn’t expecting them. Unsettled by his past and anxious for his future, Aaron is at a crossroads in life. The damage inflicted upon him during his youth has made him the man he is, but now threatens to widen the growing fissures between him and his only child. This trip could bind them closer together or tear them further apart. In this penetrating examination of action and consequence, fault and attribution, acceptance and resolution, author John Boyne (The Boy In The Striped Pyjamas, The Heart’s Invisible Furies) gives us a redemptive story of a father and a son on a moving journey to mend their troubled lives.
Zucchini and Pecorino Frittata & Macaroni Pie
Erkan Sahindal is a fully qualified chef and owner of the Olive Tree, Beverley. Here, he shares two of his favourite recipes that his grandma passed on to him. “Haitians call it macaroni au gratin. I grew up hearing this called macaroni and cheese by my grandma - whatever you call it - it’s delicious!”
Zucchini and Pecorino Frittata
SERVES 4 ENTRÉE OR LIGHT MEAL // PREP 15 MINS // COOK 20 MINS
Ingredients
125ml (½ cup) extra-virgin olive oil
2 zucchini (about 350gm), diced
2 oregano sprigs
2 garlic cloves, crushed
8 eggs, lightly beaten
2 tbsp finely grated pecorino, plus extra to serve
1 cup (loosely packed) cup parsley, coarsely chopped
6 male zucchini flowers, torn
100 gm baby rocket
Finely grated zest and juice of half a lemon
Method
1 Heat 2 tbsp oil in a large oven proof frying pan over medium heat. Add zucchini and oregano and cook, stirring occasionally, until golden and tender (5-6 minutes).
Add garlic and cook, stirring, until fragrant (1 minute).
Remove from the heat (discard oregano); transfer to a bowl to cool briefly (15 mins). Wipe pan clean.
2 Preheat oven grill to high. Whisk egg, pecorino, parsley and 2 tbsp water in a large bowl. Add cooled zucchini mixture and season generously to taste.
3 Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a reserved pan over high heat. Pour in egg mixture and cook, constantly pushing egg towards centre, until frittata is almost set. Arrange zucchini flowers on top of frittata, pressing down slightly to adhere, then grill until golden and just set (3-4 minutes).
4 Whisk remaining oil, lemon zest and juice in a bowl and season to taste. Add rocket and toss to coat. Arrange on frittata, scatter with extra pecorino and cut into wedges to serve.
Cook’s Tip
Male zucchini flowers don’t have the small zucchini stem attached. If unavailable, use the readily available female zucchini flowers. Thinly slice and sauté with the diced zucchini in step 1.
Macaroni Pie
SERVES 6-8 // PREP 20 MINS // COOK 65 MINS
Ingredients
1½ tbsp of sea salt
650g of macaroni pasta
60g (4 tbsp) of tomato ketchup
40g of hot pepper sauce (optional)
2 tsp of freshly grated nutmeg
1 tsp of freshly ground black pepper
½ tsp of ground white pepper
1½ medium onions, finely chopped
1 garlic clove
1½ tbsp of cornflour
3 medium free-range eggs
160g of mayonnaise
300ml of evaporated milk
400g of extra mature cheddar, grated
350g of mozzarella cheese, grated
Method
1 Preheat the oven to 170°C fan (375°F).
2 Bring a large saucepan of water to the boil and add 1 teaspoon of the salt, then add the pasta and cook according to the packet instructions. Drain, then rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.
3 Mix together the tomato ketchup, hot pepper sauce, nutmeg, remaining salt, pepper, onion, garlic, cornflour, egg, mayonnaise and milk in a large bowl. Whisk until well combined, then stir in 350g of the mature cheddar and 250g of mozzarella cheese.
4 Once everything is well incorporated, add the cooked pasta and mix again. Pour the mixture into a baking dish, then sprinkle with the remaining cheese. Cover with a layer of baking parchment, then foil. Seal tightly and bake in the oven for 40-50 minutes.
5 After this time, carefully remove the foil and parchment, then return to the oven and cook for a further 20-25 minutes, or until set and golden brown on top. Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before slicing into blocks.
MAY
Spring can be the most refreshing and healthy season for foodies. With winter well and truly behind us, you can ditch the comfort food that saw you through the colder months and reinvigorate your diet with some fresh seasonal produce. New potatoes will now be readily available, making the perfect accompaniment to any fish or meat dish.
Speaking of the greenery department, asparagus comes into its own this month. Whether it’s a flavoursome side to a main meal or a starter in its own right, this delectable vegetable can be fried, boiled or steamed to each recipe’s unique requirements.
Equally, spring onions are an essential item for lovers of oriental cuisine, adding a wonderfully crisp texture and distinct flavour to a number of noodle based Thai dishes. The same can also be said for cashew nuts, which will be finding their feet once more and go decidedly well with any number of rice based recipes. For salads, rocket is always a clear winner, providing a luscious bed for roasted vegetables and just about any meat or fish topping you could wish for, particularly when teamed with balsamic vinegar and olive oil.
While you’re at it, why not go Greek with a sprinkling of feta cheese, which will enhance
any salad with a rich, salty element and a brilliant, eye-catching white. On that note, a wide variety of goats’ cheeses will also be raring to go. Ranging from soft and spreadable to well matured and strong, you can indulge in this beautifully aromatic treat either hot or cold.
For meat eaters, spring is invariably lamb season. As one of the juiciest and most tender red meats on the market, it is packed full of flavour and makes a delicious main meal, be it stuffed cutlets, a seasoned shoulder or succulent slices. For fish fans, meanwhile, now is the time to load up on some gorgeously oily sardines. A classic on toast, these mouthwatering morsels can be pan-fried or barbecued to perfection, seeing you from spring into summer in truly tasty style. Furthermore, crab will be seen doing the rounds and is especially enjoyable in canapés, crab cakes or a linguine dish, while salmon will also go down a treat as foil-baked parcels or part of a traditional fish pie.
To round off your May menu, gooseberries are most certainly the order of business when it comes to dessert. These tangy fruits are incredibly flexible and can be used for fools, crumbles, tarts, cakes and jams, meaning you’ll be able to put a different spin on them with every dish served. Similarly, rhubarb is officially
back in business and just as versatile in the pudding department, while blueberries are just the thing for a summer fruit compote and also go down extremely well with a batch of homemade pancakes.
Another gamey option to consider is hare. With darker, richer and more flavoursome meat than rabbit, it’s perfect for roasting when young and can be slow cooked to perfection thereafter.
JUNE
With things heating up for summer, there is simply no better way to enjoy the British sunshine than with a good old fashioned picnic. A cornerstone of this time-honoured tradition is undoubtedly quiche, one of the most versatile additions to any picnic basket. Enjoyed hot or cold, this is an ideal vessel to cram with some of your favourite ingredients, from salty meats like ham and bacon to vegetables such as leeks, asparagus and mushrooms. With so many different fillings available, you’ll be spoilt for choice when deciding on the best way to include this dream dish in your sumptuous hamper.
Peas, as well as French and broad beans, also tend to make their mark this month, with a positively salivating selection hitting shops and markets across the country. While the former make a delightful soup, French beans are divine when fried up with a touch of garlic, complementing a number of hearty European dishes perfectly. Broad beans have the shortest seasonal shelf life, so are often preserved through drying, canning or freezing. With their sweet flavour and smooth, creamy texture, however, they are most popular at their peak of freshness and well suited to risotto. Additionally, mange tout are a favourite among stir-fry and chow mein aficionados, as the flat-podded pea bursts with an earthy essence that will have you growing your own in no time at all.
Notably, things get fairly fishy from here on in, so don’t miss out on the mixture of seafood to be had. First up is mackerel, which is at the top of its game when shining with a rainbow hue and can be smoked, grilled, oven baked or even rustled up into a dead easy pâté. Prawns may well also take your fancy, especially if you’re a big fan of Thai curries or fish pie, where they are made to feel right at home. If you’ve got a penchant for Mediterranean meals, you’ll know how moreish squid can be when fried up as a lightly battered calamari dish and served with a traditional tartar sauce. It’s just as well, as this appealing appetiser will be practically jumping off the plate this month.
What’s more, things also get considerably fruitier around this time of year, with strawberries, raspberries and tomatoes in full swing. For lovers of light, summery desserts, strawberries and cream is a match made in heaven, while pavlova, shortcake and scones are also superb treats for a spot of civilised afternoon tea in the sun. If you’re ravenous for raspberries, what better way to indulge than by making your own cheesecake or jarring up a batch of homemade jam for breakfast? And of course, let’s not forget tomatoes, which can be stewed into a warming soup, poured over fresh pasta or whipped into an ice-cold juice on a hot summer’s day.
Where Culinary Craft Meets Timeless Charm
Tête à Tête Beverley is a charming and elegant restaurant nestled in the heart of Beverley, known for its warm hospitality, exceptional service, and beautifully exceptional events.
With its stylish interiors and welcoming atmosphere, it’s the perfect setting for unforgettable celebrations, from birthdays and baby showers to intimate weddings and anniversaries. Every event is delivered with care, creativity, and a touch of class.
Don’t miss our Sip & Paint Evening on Wednesday 28th May from 6–8pm – an evening of creativity and fun for just £35, including delicious canapés and a luxury goody bag to take home.
Discover more and book your place at: www.tete-a-tete.uk
Indulge in our exquisite, chocolate creations and vibrant, multilayered bonbons, available in over 18 irresistible flavours, including favourites like Mango Passion Fruit, Maple Pecan Caramel, Ginger, Lemon, and S’mores. Don’t miss our awardwinning Kalamansi Cheesecake bonbon – a bright, citrusy delight that recently received a Silver Medal from the prestigious International Academy of Chocolate in London.
Searching for the perfect gift? Choose from our beautifully presented gift boxes, finished with your choice of ribbon – because every detail matters.
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Wednesday: 10am - 6pm
Thursday: 10am - 6pm
Friday: 10am - 7pm
Saturday: 10am - 7pm
Sunday: 10am - 4pm
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Terroir Chocolates – Handcrafted Luxury in Every Bite
Wine: It’s a matter of taste
Gaye Cooper-Blades tells us how to appreciate the complexity of flavour.
If you’re interested in wine tasting, it’s ultimately because you enjoy it; you drink it at home, or in a restaurant with your partner or friends. But are you really getting the most out of the glass and appreciating the flavour to the fullest?
Tasting is an art that requires a mental data-base of tastes, which is something that can only be developed with time and understanding. But for those who wish to add a new sophistication to their wine drinking, here are some steps on how to get started…
1st step: See
The colour of a wine can give a good indication as to the varietal, provenance and age, so take a good look.
This isn’t the most important of the steps, but it can certainly tell you something:
For example, if it’s a very pale wine, the colour could suggest that it hasn’t had any oak.
Though it’s not just the colour that you can keep your eyes peeled for. The legs of the wine – the tears that form down the edge of the glass – can be indicative of sugar and alcohol content. If you’ve got yourself a very rich red wine, you’ll not only be able to see this from the colour, but from the way that it almost sticks to the inside of the glass due to high alcohol content or sugar.
2nd step: Swirl
Next, swirl the wine gently around the glass, as this lets the air in and releases those all-important aromas.
This action activates esters and aromatises them, which is why a wine glass is shaped much like a tulip; it concentrates the smell so that it shoots up the nasal passage. Be sure not to fill your glass too high, otherwise you’re sure to spill. Pour yourself a smallish sample to get the most out of the experience. Pick your glass up by the stem for control and to avoid warming the wine if you’re tasting white or fizz.
3rd step: Sniff
As you don’t really wine taste, you wine smell, ‘nosing’ a wine is an
integral part of tasting, so take your time. In spite of the common misconception, the fi ve tastes – sweet, bitter, salty, sour and umami – isn’t what give you flavour; it’s the mixture of both the aroma and these tastes. Taking note of the accents and hints within the aromas is something that requires practice, but my handy flavour tree (see graphic) will
be able to give you an indication of what you should be looking for. But this isn’t the only reason. When a waiter in a restaurant asks if you would like to try the wine, they aren’t asking if you like it. It’s important to check the wine isn’t corked – a bottle that contains the chemical compounds 2,4,6-trichloroanisole (TCA; or 2,4,6-tribromoanisole (TBA).
This occurs when there is a taint in the cork, which can leave a wine, depending on how badly it is corked, smelling a little like mould or damp.
Once you’ve smelled that particular scent a few times, recognition becomes far easier. That’s a lot of what smelling wine is about; building up a strong knowledge of aromas.
4th step: Sip
Now, draw air into the mouth through the lips so that you can continue to taste and assess the wine.
What you taste is very similar to what you smell. When you see drinkers slurping their wine, it’s because they’re trying to draw air into the mouth, to cause a similar effect to the swirling process (step 2). With this technique, you get the aromas hitting the back of the mouth and travelling through the oropharynx passage, which translates to the brain.
How Women Can Eat Well In Mid-life
Hormonal shifts, a slowing metabolism and natural muscle loss make nutrition more important than ever in midlife. But with so much conflicting advice, knowing where to start can be overwhelming. To cut through the noise, we asked three nutritionists to share their advice on how to eat well in your fifties and beyond…
Understand Why Your Body Is Changing
“The number one reason women come to see me is to talk about their weight,” says Emma Barnes, nutritionist and women’s health specialist. “Midlife coincides with the menopause transition and this can lead to changes in body composition. Many women are frustrated because they haven’t changed their eating habits, yet are suddenly noticing fat accumulating around their middle.” Emma explains that a reduction in oestrogen and progesterone play a key role in these changes. “Oestrogen encourages fat to be stored on the hips and buttocks and, when it dips, we can become more apple-shaped. Night sweats and disrupted sleep can also increase cravings for high-fat, high-sugar foods, while stress and anxiety – common during this phase – often lead to increased alcohol consumption, which in turn affects dietary choices.” Thyroid function can also take a hit in midlife, impacting weight, energy, sleep and stress levels.
Increase Your Protein Intake
As Dr Felicia Arnati explains, declining oestrogen makes maintaining muscle mass harder, emphasising the need for plenty of protein. “It doesn’t need to come from animal sources – pulses, whole grains, beans and eggs are all great options,” she says. “Aim for around 30g of protein per meal to help with satiety, muscle retention and overall energy levels.” A quality protein powder can be a great way to keep your levels topped up. “Look for ones with minimal sweeteners or additives.”
Balance Your Blood Sugar
Midlife hormonal shifts – notably declining oestrogen – can make the body more insulin resistant, meaning it doesn’t process carbs as efficiently as before. This can lead to more dramatic blood sugar spikes and crashes, leaving you feeling fatigued, irritable and constantly craving more carbs and sugar, says Pip Summersgill, functional nutritionist. “Over time, unstable blood sugar levels can also contribute to an increased risk of type 2 diabetes. To stabilise blood sugar, focus on protein, fibre
and healthy fats at every meal. Start every meal with two bites of protein – this slows down glucose absorption and helps improve satiety, reducing the likelihood of overeating or snacking on quick-fix foods later,” Pip tells us. Fibre is another key player – aiming for 30g per day can slow the release of sugars into the bloodstream, keeping energy levels stable. Avoiding ultra-processed foods, excess caffeine and high-sugar snacks can also make a difference, as can meal timing. “Spacing meals out evenly throughout the day and avoiding late night-snacking can help regulate insulin levels and prevent unnecessary spikes,” says Pip.
Focus On Key Nutrients
Experts agree calcium, magnesium, vitamin D and omega-3’s should be top priorities in midlife, as they support everything from bone density to cognitive function and metabolic health. “Women’s calcium needs increase from 700mg per day before the age of 50 to 1,200mg after menopause,” explains Emma. “Fermented dairy, leafy greens, fortified plant milks and almonds are great sources.” Since vitamin D supports calcium absorption, Emma recommends getting 10-20 minutes of sunlight exposure daily, and supplementing with vitamin D2 and K2 in the winter months. Magnesium and omega-3s also play a crucial role. “Magnesium supports stress management, muscle relaxation and sleep, yet many women don’t get enough,” continues Pip, who recommends foods like dark leafy greens, pumpkin seeds and dark chocolate, or taking a magnesium glycinate supplement before bed. Healthy fats from avocados, extra virgin olive oil and nuts are key
for hormone balance and brain health, while omega-3s from oily fish, flaxseeds and walnuts help reduce inflammation.
Support Your Gut
Gut bacteria changes in midlife, affecting digestion, metabolism and even hormone regulation. “We need to keep digestion ticking over in midlife and feed our gut microbes,” adds Emma. “A healthy microbiome is linked to better immune health, skin health and even mental health, plus research suggests the gut also plays a role in how hormones like oestrogen are broken down, circulated and metabolised in the body.” To keep your gut on track, aim for 30g of fibre daily from vegetables, whole grains and legumes, as well as probiotic-rich foods like kefir and kimchi.
Reconsider Fasting
Intermittent fasting has become a popular trend, but experts caution against it for midlife women. “While fasting can work for some, I don’t think long fasts are helpful later in life,” Emma tells us. “Women in this phase need to prioritise steady, balanced meals.” Pip agrees: “For most of us, a 14-hour overnight fast is enough. Leaving four to five hours between meals can also help with digestion and insulin sensitivity.”
Build Sustainable Habits
Feeling overwhelmed? Don’t overcomplicate it. “Start small,” says Emma. “Eating a protein-rich breakfast, getting enough fibre and prioritising sleep can make a huge difference.” Forget calorie counting, adds Felicia, and focus on nutrient density instead. “A diet rich in plants, healthy fats and highquality protein will serve you well in midlife and beyond.” You don’t need to overhaul your entire diet – small consistent changes are key,
says Emma.
Here are some of her top tips to get you started…
l Get a basic blood panel to check iron (ferritin), B12, folate, vitamin D, cholesterol and thyroid levels. Iron is often low in midlife women, especially with heavy periods. If iron is low, try a gentle, nonconstipating supplement like Active Iron.
l Eat a protein-rich breakfast. It’s game-changing when it comes to satiety, minimising cravings and stabilising energy levels. Try Greek yoghurt with mixed seeds and berries, scrambled eggs with cottage cheese, or add ground flaxseeds to overnight oats.
l Pair vitamin C with iron-rich plant foods like tomatoes and beans to improve absorption.
l Try good-quality plant proteins like tofu or tempeh instead of meat once in a while.
l Opt for soya milk as a plantbased milk with a higher protein content if you avoid dairy.
l Make olive oil your primary cooking oil but enjoy butter on occasion.
l Sprinkle psyllium husks over porridge for an extra fibre boost.
l Be selective with supplements. ‘Meno-washing’ is everywhere, preying on midlife women. Not all supplements are necessary, and anyone insisting you need one is often selling it.
l Be patient with weight loss. Overly restrictive diets backfire. Sustainable changes over six to 12 months lead to better long-term results.
DISCLAIMER: Features published in this magazine are not intended to treat, diagnose, cure or prevent any disease. Always seek the advice of your GP or another qualified healthcare provider for any questions you have regarding a medical condition, and before undertaking any diet, exercise or other health-related programme.
Discover Wild
Where Health and Sustainability Meet
At Wild, we believe every choice matters — what we eat, where it’s from, and how it’s prepared impacts not only our health but the planet too.
That’s why we proudly source organic, locally grown produce, supporting businesses who share our passion for sustainability.
Our café is built from recycled materials, we serve in beautiful recycled glassware, and we cook on energy-efficient induction hobs to keep our carbon footprint low. Every detail is designed with care, so you can enjoy delicious food and drink while knowing you are doing good for the earth. If you love living well and treading lightly, make sure to visit us next time you’re in Beverley — Wild is the place for you.
hit online shopping record
British people spend more of their income on the virtual high street than any other nation, handing over 8.8% a year. This is double the Americans and French, who splurge 4.3%, with only the South Koreans coming close at 8.5, according to research by Public Desire. But more spend doesn’t equate to longer browsing, with an average of two hours and four minutes a week internet shopping - only a quarter of the time devoted by the Chinese.
Baby-leave boost
Parents with sick babies will be entitled to additional paid leave from day one in a job from 6 April. They could take up to 12 weeks of Neonatal Care Leave on top of their standard entitlement, including maternity and paternity. Mums and dads of babies admitted to hospital up to 28 days old, who have a continuous stay of seven days or longer, will qualify. Those who meet continuity of service requirements and a minimum earnings threshold will also get Statutory Neonatal Care Pay.
3,000
Women between 25 and 65 speak 3,000 more words a day than their male peers, a University of Arizona study found.
Cutting down contraception
Unreliable period tracking apps are driving a surge in abortions, NHS research suggests. Data from clinics shows a shift away from hormonal contraception in the past five years towards tech, which monitors cycles and encourages users to only have sex on days when they’re predicted to be less fertile. But reliance on these apps is only 76 per cent effective at preventing pregnancy according to the Faculty of Sexual and
Terrified by Those Three Little Words?
MAKING TAX DIGITAL
From April 2026, if you're self-employed or a landlord with a gross income over £50,000, HMRC will expect you to keep digital records and submit quarterly updates.
This isn't going away - so let's tackle it NOW, not in a last minute panic.
Get ahead of the rush by starting from April 2025. This gives us time to work out all the gremlins before HMRC makes it mandatory. Hand over your bags of receipts, spreadsheets, and scraps of paper—I’ll get you set up, show you the ropes, and keep you compliant, so you can focus on what you do best.
No last minute stress. No nasty surprises. No HMRC headaches.
With 30+ years in accounting, I know how to keep HMRC happy. I’m qualified FMAAT (Licence 2135) and I make tax digitalisation simple and stress-free.
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E: sarah@response-accounting.co.uk
Reproductive Healthcare. Meanwhile, the proportion of women relying on the Pill has fallen from 47 per cent in 2012-13 to 27 per cent in 2022-23. Experts put this down to shifts towards contraceptives with less side effects and also difficulty accessing prescriptions.
43
43 is the age we starting turning into our parents, according to a survey by M&S Money, with 36% citing complaining about the weather as the top sign.
Fancy a cuppa?
Almost half of workers never take a tea break with colleagues, while a quarter of Gen Z admit to not offering to make a cuppa in the office, a poll by food company Tilda found.
No more empty nesters...
It’s not just adult kids checking into the Hotel of Mum and Dadmore grandparents are moving in too, as homeowners renovate to accommodate the whole family. Insurance firm Aviva say a rise in multi-generational living is driving building work, along with increased working from home. A massive 44% of property owners surveyed said they plan to renovate over the next two years, with 21% planning to extend the layout.
Of those looking to increase space, 17% said housing more than one generation was a key factor, while a further 17% intend to reconfigure their home’s layout to add more bathrooms or toilets.
Rise and shine!
Life really does seem better in the morning, with a study finding people generally wake in the best frame of mind.
UCL experts tracked the mental health wellbeing of 49,000 people over 24-hour periods across two years, discovering that we feel our worst around midnight. The day
of the week and the season also play a part. Ratings for happiness, life satisfaction and feeling worthwhile were all slightly higher on Mondays and Fridays than on Sundays, and happiness was higher on Tuesdays.
Boiled to perfection?
Scientists claim they’ve cracked the secret code for perfect boiled eggs – cook them for 32 minutes. The recipe, developed by the University of Naples Federico II, takes a room-temperature egg and switches it between a saucepan of 100°C boiling water and a bowl of 30°C water every two minutes.
The result should be a perfect ‘creamy’ consistency throughout, because the white cooks at 85°C while the yolk cooks at 65°C. Chemical analysis of the finished eggs also suggested they contained more polyphenols, a type of micronutrients which have lots of health benefits thanks to their anti-oxidant and antiinflammatory properties.
Tiredness
gender gap
Women’s tiredness is routinely unnoticed by others - while men’s fatigue levels are over estimated. NASA scientists discovered this new gender gap while investigating the energy levels of astronauts. It’s thought the differences are down to how the sexes behave in company, with women who feel drained still making an effort to be sociablesomething men are less likely to do. Study lead Morgan Stosicsaid perceivers under estimated women’s fatigue by 1.3 points while men’s was overstated by 0.9 on a scale of ten.
The result aligns with earlier research where volunteers had a tourniquet applied tot heir upper arm and did hand grip exercises, while onlookers rated the discomfort of each sex.
Gozo: Worth a Few Days of Anyone’s Time
Having previously stayed in Malta, I had never ventured across to Gozo. Originally, the plan for this holiday was a two centre stay between the two islands. However, accommodating 46 guests made that impractical. Nevertheless, we managed to squeeze in a day trip and from start to finish, it was filled with laughter.
An early start saw us departing at 8 a.m., heading north towards a private port where the islands of Comino and Gozo come into view. The journey was a smooth 35 minutes, with excellent roads winding along the coastline and through stretches of countryside. Our jolly driver kept us entertained, pointing out landmarks and local tales along the way. Upon arrival, we boarded a small boat for the short crossing to Gozo, passing close by the famous caves of Comino. Excitement was high as we disembarked and clambered into a fleet of 10 jeeps, setting off in convoy to explore.
While some members of our group had previously visited Gozo, many had only seen its capital, Victoria. This time, we enjoyed a full circular tour of the island, soaking up the wonderful sunshine along the way.
Leaving the bustling Mġarr Harbour behind, it wasn ’t long before we were deep in the countryside. Our first stop was the charming Rambla Bay. With its rich red sand, calm waters, and peaceful surroundings, many of us could easily have spent the whole day there. It ’s an ideal spot for a swim, with convenient facilities including toilets and a snack van selling ice creams a perfect place to relax if you have a hire car and a sunny day.
Continuing along the coast, we reached the fascinating Salt Pans of Xwejni, west of Marsalforn a town that’s quickly becoming a trendy spot to stay. The salt pans, resembling a giant chequerboard, stretch for about three kilometres along the seafront and have been in continuous use for over 350 years. Salt is still harvested by local families during the summer and can be bought at roadside stalls or local shops.
Heading east, we passed the impressive Ta' Pinu Basilica. Unfortunately, a service was underway, so we couldn't explore inside a reason to return another time. Soon after, we arrived at Dwejra Bay, where our jeeps trundled down to the water ’s edge. Some of us took a boat ride through a natural cave in the cliff, emerging into the open sea where the famed Azure Window once stood. Meanwhile, divers trained in the crystal clear waters nearby, a picture perfect scene.
Lunch was served in Xewkija, one of Gozo ’s oldest villages. After a hearty meal, we visited the remarkable Church of St. John the Baptist. Built between 1951 and 1978, it replaced an earlier church that had become too small. Its bright, airy interior and adjacent museum make it a worthwhile stop.
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05 January 2026 - 6 nights from £1848 cruise Cologne to Amsterdam aboard the luxurious Amadeus Cara
Full board & wine with lunch & dinner
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25 January 26 Lakeside Hotel & Spa
A 3 night break in the Lake district £399
14 March 26, The Tynedale, Llandudno 4 nights £625 - DBB theme “Cruise on Land”
28 April 26 Sail the Caledonian Canal an iconic voyage aboard the Lord of the Glens Oban, Mull to Inverness 7 nights from £2895
As we made our way south toward Victoria, we paused at a tourist shop for tastings of local prickly pear liqueur, nougat, and olive oil all very reasonably priced. Along the route, we also spotted the remains of the old Gozo Aqueduct, a remarkable feat of British engineering from the 1800s.
Victoria itself was bustling, with plenty of shops, cafés, and eateries.
The Citadel, perched high on a hill, offers breathtaking views, though it’s worth planning your visit around the land train ’s operation if walking is a challenge. Our day concluded on the coast at Ħondoq Bay, overlooking the island of Comino. I found a quiet spot in a small garden overlooking the beach, a perfect place to reflect on the island ’s charm and how much my brief visit had left me wanting more.
As we rejoined our jeeps, lively conversations buzzed between us. Our drivers, full of personality, had kept the energy high all day, and as we swapped stories on the return journey, laughter echoed across the convoy.
Gozo had given us a true taste of its magic and it certainly left us wanting to return.
As we boarded the ferry back to Malta, our captain treated us to a final surprise: a slow cruise close to the island of Comino, giving us a fabulous view of the caves bathed in the golden evening light. It was the perfect end to a perfect day.
Whether you ’re planning your next adventure or simply seeking inspiration, Malta & her archipelago is a destination that delivers in every aspect. Its blend of history, natural beauty, and modern comforts makes it a perfect getaway. Until next month, when I will share with you my latest adventure to Albania. A country full of intrigue since my twenties when visiting nearby Corfu, it was the forbidden land just over the sea! Happy travels and remember, travel truly is a tonic for the soul.
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ELLIS J BARRACLOUGH is playing a Homecoming HULL Gig
at Social on Humber Street on Thursday 22nd May
This exceptionally talented 19 yr old from Hull started playing guitar when he was just 8 and penned his very first song at the tender age of 12. Ellis has been playing local gigs in Hull and select dates in London over the past couple of years.
The pure honesty and depth of his lyrics is truly inspiring. Combined with a refreshing approach to memorable melodies and chord progressions that surprise and delight the listener. Musical influences range from The Beatles, Fleetwood Mac, to the Kings of Leon, America, Radiohead and Kula Shaker.
April 4th2024, Ellis embarked on a Nationwide tour as the support act for Simon Fowler and Oscar Harrison of Ocean Colour Scene. They were so impressed with him that they asked him to join them yet again on the Scottish leg of the tour which sold out.
He now comes back to his hometown of Hull to play his very first performance with his newly formed band ‘THE SUNCREEN’ a five-piece outfit. The band consists of Drums / Bass/ Guitar and Keys.
He was featured on the Gabby Roslin BBC Radio London show and has been getting massive support from BBC introducing in Hull. This marks the beginning of an epic journey for the songwriter who here in Hull is now marking this as his premiere performance.
Venue: Social • Doors- 7.30pm Tickets are £12.00 plus BF Website – https://bit.ly/EJB_Hull
For further information on ELLIS check out the following links: Facebook.com/ellisjbarraclough/ Youtube.com/@EllisJBarraclough Instagram.com/ellisjbarracloughofficial/
RED HOT CHILLI PIPERS
Thursday 29th May
There has never been anything quite like The Red Hot Chilli Pipers, from their formation in 2002 and a cameo appearance at T in the Park in 2004 with the Darkness to opening the main stage in their own right in 2014, and storming Glastonbury festival in 2024.
The past twenty plus years have seen the Red Hot Chilli Pipers become the most famous bagpipe band on the planet...ever! Bagpipes with attitude, drums with a Scottish accent and a show that leaves people with warm hearts and smiles. Brid Spa Box Office: 01262 678 258
The world’s biggest dance music brand brings you an unforgettable live experience! The legendary Ellie Sax is joined on stage by live vocalists, drums, percussion, keys and DJs to reimagine iconic dance anthems from the likes of Faithless, Eric Prydz, Becky Hill, The Shapeshifters, Daft Punk, Robin S, Fisher, and more!
Ellie Sax is a world-renowned saxophonist whose electrifying performances have captivated audiences across the globe. Known for her vibrant energy and unique
style, Ellie seamlessly blends classical training with dance music, making her one of the most sought-after musicians in the world of dance music. Ellie’s career has spanned an array of global stages, club floors and international party hotspots. Entertaining audiences from beach clubs in Ibiza and across Europe, through prestigious events including: Monaco Grand Prix and Glastonbury
To enter just send your Name, Address and Contact Telephone number via email to: ask@daltonspire.co.uk Postal entries with the same information should be
The Motoring Column
The Skoda Elroq...
This electric SUV has already impressed me with its rangetopping form, but are the cheaper versions just as good?
This month Elliot Johnson looks at the Skoda Elroq.
What does the Skoda Elroq have in common with brunch, Wikipedia and parasailing?
Answer: the names of all four were created by combining two other words.
In the case of ‘Elroq’, it’s a portmanteau of electric’ and ‘Karoq. So, you won’t be surprised to hear that this new model is an electric vehicle (EV) that’s about the same size as Skoda’s conventionally powered Karoq SUV.
As such, it’s a smaller car than the brand’s other electric SUV, the Enyaq. And we were so impressed when we tried the range-topping 85 version a few months back that we named it our Electric Family SUV of the Year.
But what about the cheaper 50 and 60 variants? Well, we’ve now driven those too, and it turns out that the latter offers all the pace you need; no, it’s not hot hatch fast, like the 85, but it still responds keenly when you put your foot down and offers a useful step up in performance over the 50.
The 60 also treads the middle ground when it comes to range, with its 59kWh (usable capacity) battery giving it an official figure of 265 miles, compared with 233 miles the 50 and 360 miles for the 85. These figures are competitive with those of similar-priced rivals, although they’re not class-leading.
On the other hand, the Elroq’s ride and handling balance is. It absorbs imperfections in the road surface very well - whether you stick with the standard suspension or upgrade to the adaptive DCC
set-up - and feels far more nimble through quick changes of direction than the Kia EV3 and Renault Scenic.
The Elroq’s brakes are more consistent in the way that they respond than those in some other W Group EVs, although the EV3 and Tesla Model Y still make it easier to brake to a smooth stop.
In our back-to-back testing, the Elroq proved quieter at 70mph than the EV3 and Scenic. The only thing that disturbs the peace is a faint flutter of wind from around the door mirrors.
The driving position in the Elroq is excellent, even though you don’t sit
as high as you do in the EV3. Interior quality is another strength; the Elroq mixes solid construction with pleasingly tactile materials.
Every version comes with a 13.0in infotainment touchscreen with sharp graphics and a relatively intuitive layout. While it’s a pity the air-con is operated through this, at least the temperature icons are always on display, and a physical shortcut button can take you to the main climate menu.
The Elroq is among the most practical cars in its class; there are lots of handy storage cubbies, and a six-footer will have plenty of space to spare even when sitting behind a similarly tall driver. Unlike the EV3 and Model Y, the Elroq doesn’t have any storage space under its bonnet, but the boot is a good size, and for £250 you can add a Transport Package that includes a net under the parcel shelf so you can keep the charging cable away from your luggage.
Entry-level SE trim (which is available only in combination with the 50 model) comes with 19in alloy wheels, phone mirroring, rear parking sensors and a rear-view camera. Our favoured Edition spec (available with both the 60 and 85) brings adaptive cruise control, keyless entry and wireless phone charging.
Add in competitive pricing and charging speeds (a 10-80% top-up can be completed in as little as 28 minutes) and the Elroq is a car that combines most of the strengths of its best rivals in a single package.
Verdict: A superb electric SUV
that is really practical. It comes with a fantastic finish at an affordable price and best of all it is a joy to drive!
THE KEY FACTS
Skoda Elroq 60 Edition
Price: £34,450
Engine: Electric motor
Power: 201 bhp
Torque: 229lb ft
Gearbox: 1-spd automatic
Battery size: 59kWh (usable)
0-62mph: 8.0sec
Top speed: 99mph
Official range: 265 miles
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All About Plants, Gardens & Vegetable Patches
“No Mow May” is upon us and with luck you should reap many benefits from your decision to embrace it. The plea for us all to join this campaign is even greater now as seen in last month’s edition of this magazine. It does not deliver good news: nine species of butterfly suffering their worst year since counting began in 1976. Lives of butterflies are affected by weather conditions and last year’s were not kind with a wet spring and cool summer. So the plea from UKBMS (United Kingdom Butterfly Monitoring Scheme) is ‘letting parts of your garden grow wild with long grass increases the number and varieties of butterfly, so we are calling on people and councils across the UK to pledge not to cut their grass this year from April to September. This simple act can make real, immediate difference to butterflies and other wild life.’
A spell of bright, sunny days at the start of April enabled us to get out and enjoy the joys of spring. In a wood in Cheshire I saw fritillaries, primroses and cowslips in full flower. Once again, on Skidby roundabout, a mass of cowslips is beginning to open. We can look forward to the hawthorn in the hedgerows now that the blackthorn has faded, and also take pleasure in the bluebells. These
never fail to impress, especially on Westwood and in Burton Bushes.
IN THE GARDEN
We can now get down to gardening in earnest. The clocks have gone on, the weather is improving, and no doubt several Bank Holidays have led us to the garden centres to purchase bedding plants and material for hanging baskets. We still need to keep an eye on the weather as cold snaps can damage these tender plants. It will also damage dahlias and canna lilies so be chary about planting them out too early. It is best to keep planted-out hanging baskets in a well sheltered place for protection while plants establish themselves.
Those perky scarlet lily beetles will be looking for the leaves on your lilies and fritillaries, so watch out and pick them off by hand. They will strip the leaves bare! Viburnum tinus and V.opulus may show signs of beetle grubs which will be hatching now into stripey beige coloured larvae. Tiny holes appear in the leaves caused by both larvae and the adults who will strip the leaves in a similar way to the lily beetle. Keeping your eye out for early signs, picking them off and destroying them, is the best way to maintain healthy shrubs.
Polyanthus and primroses are best divided now, as are clumps of daffodils. The faded bulbs will respond well to some feed to encourage flowering next year. The spring flowering shrubs such as Forsythia, Berberis and Choisya which have given us splendid display this year can be pruned once their flowers have gone.
One of the pleasures of spring is to watch the leaves unfurl and bring all their varied shapes and hues of green to the garden. In his book – Plants for Ground Cover (1970) – the late Graham Stuart Thomas invites us to consider that foliage is more important than flowers, and that green in its many variations ‘is a colour that deserves the closest attention and appraisal.’ All these plants will produce flowers, but for many their foliage is their main feature. Think of hostas, a genus with a huge variety of leaf shapes and shades of green from lime green to grey green. Heuchera is another genus producing similar variety in its leaves but embracing rust and purple hues in their colour range. It can provide a very good foliage feature in a container or hanging basket. Periwinkles (Vinca) give year round fresh-looking leaf colour and are good in shade. Their stripey bright blue/ purple flowers provide a wonderful contrast. The small-leafed V.minor is a candidate for hanging baskets and containers, but its bigger relative V.major can be a bit of a hooligan and hard to keep under control. So while you are dead-heading, pricking out and potting on, or dividing clumps of bulbs, etc., take a pause to look at the foliage around you.
ON THE PLOT
The vegetable patch will need attending to in earnest now. Warmer weather and longer daylight hours
will spur us on to tackle the lengthy list of jobs. Late frosts are always a worry in May, so fruits such as peaches, apricots and nectarines may need fleece on cold nights. If you have a fig tree, cutting back some of the older stems will encourage new growth.
The asparagus season has arrived, so you can begin cutting some spears from established plants. Received opinion is that it is best not to start cutting until the crowns mature at three years old. Then you can harvest for two to three weeks, and from four years onward harvest for a longer six/eight week period; and the bed should last you a good ten years. Once your harvest is over the remaining spears will continue to grow and open up into beautiful, fine fern-like wispy branches, giving a delicate contrast to the many leafy salad crops that you may be growing. Any brassicas will benefit from frequent watering to encourage good strong growth which should counter the beetle damage.
Strawberry plants will be burgeoning and not only developing their delicious fruits but also pushing out lengthy runners to ensure their continued production of new plants (vegetative reproduction). These runners can be very useful in giving you a free supply of young plants which you can plant up to develop an even larger strawberry bed. However, if runners are left untamed they will run riot and take root draining the energy of the parent plant which will not perform so well thereafter.
French beans and runner beans can now be sown direct into the ground. I use a thick layer of wool slug pellets over these crops while they germinate to make sure that I get the crop and not the slugs. If watered well initially these pellets expand to give a thick carpet over the developing beans.
When your potato shoots are about 20 to 25 centimetres high they need to be carefully covered with soil, creating a ridge called ‘earthing up’. This will protect the developing new crop from the light, preventing their going green and becoming inedible.
Broad beans and peas need to be supported. I put a few canes about the broad bean bed and tie string between the canes. I usually put two lengths around, one about a foot above the ground and the
second a foot higher. Peas also need supporting and twigs with lots of branches are useful, giving support and something for tendrils to hang on to. Old raspberry canes serve well as the growing peas attach themselves to the many small prickles. Placing the canes in a criss-cross manner creates a sturdy fence to support the growing plants.
Careful planning of the space on your plot should have left enough room for your courgettes and related cucurbitas – squash, marrow and pumpkin. They all take up much room, and remember that the slugs do enjoy a young courgette plant.
Sweetcorn can be planted out in a block, not a row. Have a look to see where your neighbour has planted theirs and position yours well away so that you both benefit from good, juicy cobs by avoiding crosspollination.
Consider having some sunflowers on your plot. The insects relish the pollen and nectar, and the oil-rich seeds will be a treat for the birds later. These flamboyant flowers rising high above all the other crops, some reaching three metres as with ‘Russian Giant’, grow in an amazingly short time. They give a cheery, sunny welcome to you even on a wet day.
Happy Gardening
Sarah x
FIONA’S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
By Fiona Dwyer - Journalist, PR Consultant, DIY Your Biz PR Course Creator, Wife and Mum to two teenagers!
From ‘No Way José’ to running my own slimming group
Sometimes a decision leads you somewhere you never expected - and that was me joining Slimming World last year. I’d always sworn I’d never go to a slimming club (Weekly weighins? You’ve got to be kidding me!). But with a big family holiday on the horizon and nothing working on my own, I went along with a friend… and it completely changed my whole outlook.
It wasn’t about starving myself, counting every single calorie or weighing everything. I could eat my favourite food - and still lose weight. In 7 months, I lost 2 stone, something I hadn’t managed to do on my own in 8 years. The support was incredible and there wasn’t even a single shred of the embarrassment I dreaded! The accountability of going to group every week was exactly what I needed. And no-one ever knows your actual weight! I feel so much more confident and I can fit into clothes
I’d given up on. Yay! I even came off my blood pressure meds (doctorapproved, of course!).
The experience inspired me so much that I decided to become a consultant myself - and I’m thrilled to be relaunching a group at All Saints’ Parish Church Hall, North Ferriby from 14th May, every Wednesday at 5.30pm and 7pm
If any of this resonates and you’d like support to lose weight your way (and make new friends along the way), I’d love to help you. Drop me a message on socials or call me to find out more. P.S. Don’t worry, my PR consultancy and coaching is continuing as normal!
I love May! It’s my favourite month……
And not just because of my new venture! The lighter evenings, the blossoms and two bank holidays, just before summer really kicks in! What’s not to love about May? Added to that, it’s my birthday and my wedding anniversary! This year we’re celebrating 22 years which is our copper anniversary. When I think about copper, I think of copper kettles (maybe that’s because I love a good cup of tea!) Actually, we could do with a new kettle, but that’s not very romantic, is it?!
As well as blossoms, we’ll start seeing forget-me-nots (my favourite flower) and it’s always warmer, often with plenty of sunshine (not that you can rely on the weather anymore). But things always seem more possible in May. What have you got planned?
How do you cope with exam season?
My youngest just turned 18! How that actually happened is beyond me. It feels like only yesterday that she started at nursery. Anyway, with exam season underway, she’s doing her ‘A’ Levels. The thing is, exams aren’t just stressful for children (oh wait, she’s an adult now!), they’re stressful for us parents too. There’s a fine line between supporting and encouraging
Have a great month everyone.
Slimming World
Farmers Market Street Food Meet the Alpacas
Donkey Rides Carnival Mask Making Kite Making / Flying
