North March 2020

COUNTRY

North Edition - March 2020

Bottle shops,tap rooms and micro-pubs Steve Orme interviews

Robert Daws Images Walk MILLER’S DALE South Wingfield Station

A Lost Beauty

Artist: Steve Mcloughlin

Lost Derbyshire Houses

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Turning the corner Well, Spring is truly on its way.

The buds are out, the daffodils have pushed their way through and the birds are making themselves heard.

The cat has expectantly camped near a bush where a nest is obviously housed. Things really do come to life at this time of year and that includes us! The settee loses its magnetism and the outside world calls as the sun gets a bit stronger. We also start to notice that things may need a little attention around the home after a wet, busy winter. In this issue we look in-depth at the inside and outside of our homes. Our advertisers have come together in a special feature to present their professional services to prospective clients. It encompasses all things valuable to anyone renovating their home.

Brian seems to have the wanderlust and continues his sojourns around Europe. Max is happy to be delving through old railway signs and digging up the history on a minor country house which once graced the hillside of Allen Hill on the outskirts of Matlock. Steve interviews Robert Daws. Amanda is a self confessed foodie but this month imbibes in the craft beer industry!

Along with our other contributors we have once again come up with some fascinating features that we hope will appeal to you all.

We hope that you enjoy it.

Country

Unit 5 Keys Road, Alfreton, Derbyshire. DE55 7FQ Tel: 01773 830344 info@imagespublishing.co.uk Editor: Garry M Plant. Advertisement Executives: Lisa O’Reilly, Carol Wilson, Lisa Johnson Editorial Features: Brian Spencer, Maxwell Craven, Steve Orme, Amanda Volley, David Clay.

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South Wingfield Station

A Lost Beauty

By Brian Spencer

T

he large, attractive village of South Wingfield no longer relies on mining coal, or producing knitted fabrics for its industries, but has become a quiet dormitory town for the surrounding area. Its one major feature is Wingfield Manor. It was here that Mary Queen of Scots was held captive for several years, all the while and with some justification, complaining bitterly of the smell from the midden directly beneath her bedroom window. It was from here that the abortive Babbington Plot tried to free her, costing its perpetrator his head.

10 | www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk

About half a mile outside the village, the Midland Mainline railway crosses the Alfreton road. A few yards beyond the railway bridge, a short length of mud covered cobbles leads to a group of abandoned station buildings where the converted station master’s house is now a dual residence, partly hidden in a wild-wood of self-sown trees. This was South Wingfield’s very own station.

Until 1967, South Wingfield rail travellers could hop on one of the main line trains stopping at the village station and ride in comfort to do their shopping in Chesterfield and beyond, or Derby and all points south as far as London. Despite the station being designated as a Grade II* listed building, it was deemed unnecessary for this rural part of Derbyshire and was closed

in 1967. Express trains still thunder down the Amber Valley and roar through what is left of South Wingfield Station, but nowadays anyone from the village wanting to catch a train going north or south, must travel some distance for the privilege.

What was originally called the North Midlands Railway was built

by George Stephenson and his son Robert. Funding was initially organised by George Hudson of York, known as the railway king in his short-lived notoriety. During the railway building mania of the mid 1800s, he encouraged investors to put money into his schemes, artificially inflating the value of the railway company shares by paying dividends out of investments rather than profits, a kind of pyramid scheme in its day. When this illegal

Architect Francis Thompson was commissioned by Robert Stephenson, son of George, to design 24 stations along the Derby to Leeds section of the North Midlands Railway. They were all architectural masterpieces, whether they served a large town or small village. Due to modernising and other schemes in later years, only one survived, it was South Wingfield.

Lithograph by S Russell practice was discovered, Hudson was indicted and sent to prison as a broken and penniless man.

Fortunately the plan to build a railway linking Leeds to London by way of Derby was properly funded.

So with Derby at the junction of lines from London, Birmingham and Nottingham, the route of the North Midland (later the Midland) Railway was surveyed by George Stephenson assisted by Joseph Locke. Stephenson proposed building the line by using 72 miles of river valleys between Derby and Leeds. This would result in a route designed to mainly carry coal; using gentle gradient; building viaducts and tunnels only where necessary. Although it had the advantage of allowing heavily laden coal trains to run mostly downhill, his route frequently by-

Photographed in 1971, the Grade II* Listed Building became what someone described as a ‘maimed beauty, deserving better’, one of the ten most important buildings at risk in the British Isles. www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk | 11

passed many large towns such as Sheffield. Connecting them meant building costly branch lines. This led to disagreement between Stephenson and Locke who saw the economic advantages of connecting as many towns and cities as possible along the route, rather than relying on simply carrying coal. Eventually a compromise was reached, just in time to cater for the growing interest in passenger trains, despite the many inconveniences such as travelling in coal wagons.

The first train to run along what eventually had become the 73½ mile long railway, left Leeds with suitable Victorian pomp and ceremony on the morning of the 7th of May 1840, with a formal lunch at Derby on arrival at 1.30 p.m., returning to Leeds on time at 6.55 p.m.

One part of the ceremonial inaugural run was to formally open Derby Station, then, as now an important junction serving the three lines between London, Birmingham and Leeds. The original Derby Station was designed by the architect Francis Thompson who was commissioned by Robert Stephenson, son of George, to design 24 stations along the Derby to Leeds section of the North Midlands Railway. They were all architectural masterpieces,

whether they served a large town or small village. Due to modernising and other schemes in later years, only one survived, it was South Wingfield.

Following gradual deterioration and standing empty since its closure over 50 years ago, despite being classified as a Grade II* Listed Building, South Wingfield became what someone described as a ‘maimed beauty, deserving better’, one of the ten most important buildings at risk in the British Isles.

In November 2019 a saviour came on the scene in the shape of the Derbyshire Historic Buildings Trust (DHBT), in order to take over South Wingfield Station’s ownership, raise funds, restore the station buildings and find commercial and educational uses for them.

With the backing of Historic England, the Architectural Heritage Fund and the local council for Amber Valley, who placed a compulsory purchase order on the semi-ruined building, ownership of the station was transferred to the Derbyshire Historic Buildings Trust.

Once over this hurdle, the Trust is beginning to work towards securing full funding for the restoration and adaptation of Wingfield Station.

So the trust have begun the massive task of arranging funding

for restoring and adapting South Wingfield Station. The plan after removing all the rubbish and invading shrubs and trees, cleaning off graffiti and generally making the building safe and accessible, is to make it available for living history events, telling the story of the station through the recorded memories of those who worked there or travelled from it; arranging bursaries for young people to learn traditional rural craft skills and offering open days for the local community – bringing the station back to life and allowing it to be part of the community once more.

Thanks to National Lottery players, funds from The National Lottery Heritage Fund and others, including the Pilgrim Trust Foundation are already generated for the initial work in generally tidying up the site, undertaking surveys, developing plans, consulting with the local community and developing partnerships.

An initial development grant of £137,000 from The National Lottery Heritage Fund has been awarded to begin the task of preventing further deterioration of the station, and preparing it for development as a commercial enterprise. At the end of this phase, the trust will be submitting a second funding application with the aim of securing the funds required to bring

South Wingfield Station photographed in late 2019

the Station back to life.

Since starting the project development phase in November 2019, the trust have appointed local architectural practice, James Boon Architects, to oversee the design team. James Boon will be developing initial concept sketches and looking at various options to discuss with the local community and other key stakeholders. A Project Co-ordinator is also in post to support the trust with compiling all the documentation required for the second round application.

An Interpretive Designer will shortly join the team and they will be responsible for identifying and delivering creative ways of sharing the heritage of the site with visitors.

An Activity Consultant will be identifying partnership opportunities and discussing with individuals and groups what their hopes are for the end use of the building.

Group are keen to support the project, and will play an important role in helping to gather oral and social history relating to stories, reminiscences and memories of Station users. The group had previously developed a small archive of six stories relating to memories of people using the Station and are keen to also share local knowledge of the rural and industrial life of the Parish.

The project team will be hosting a public launch event on the

24th of March at 7pm at South Wingfield Social Club. Anyone who is interested is welcome to come along and hear more about the story so far and the plans for the future.

Places are free but booking is essential. Tickets can be booked via the trust’s Eventbrite page wingfield-station.eventbrite.com Alternatively, please email the Project Co-ordinator, Lucy Godfrey, wingfieldstation@gmail.com

The project has already attracted a lot of attention from people wishing to offer volunteer time and there will be a Volunteer Coordinator helping to manage this.

It is envisaged that volunteers will play an important role in supporting the general maintenance around the site, undertaking research and helping with project admin and event delivery.

The South Wingfield Local History

www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk | 13

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Your search Ends

Here...

Allen Hill, south (entrance front) with Edward Slack and his family arrayed in front, c.1890. Photographer unknown.

[Derbyshire Museum Service]

Allen Hill Matlock

As

you proceed out of Matlock going north you will pass on your right the end of Dimple Road, which rises vertiginously up the steepish hillside. Some way up you might just miss Allen Hill a narrow road leading down into a mass of 1960s housing and rising out on the other side as little more than a footpath ending in Woolley Road.

From Woolley Road, you will also encounter Edge Road which, although on the hillside, has nothing to do with topography but everything to do with the former ownership of the land. Malpas Road also opens off Woolley Road.

The

Lost Houses of Derbyshire

by Maxwell Craven

www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk | 19

Allen Hill

All these have resonance with a very modest, very old, minor country house which once graced this hillside, Allen Hill. The house itself – at least in its latter three centuries – was of L-plan, built of rough ashlar blocks of Ashover Grit from a local quarry and edged with long-and-short blocky quoins.

The cross wing was to the left of the entrance and had a four light mullioned window lighting the floor above a five light one, both set beneath cranked hood moulds.

Between the two was inset a stone plaque under another very short hood moulding which read AW | GC

Right: St. Giles, Matlock, funeral hatchment of one of the Wolleys, [Private collection] Far right: Arms of the Wolleys (and Woolleys!): sable a chevron vairé between three maiden’s heads and shoulders couped proper. [M. Craven] Below: Monumental inscription to Adam Wolley and his wife 1849 with its inverted torches of learning. [Private collection]

20 | www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk

1624 | V The cross-wing gable was irregular, for the fenestration was by no means central, suggesting a rebuild of an earlier house. The porch was a charming confection of two storeys which projected beyond the cross-wing and like it was topped by stone coping with a ball finial at the apex.

A two-light mullioned window under a hood mould lit the tiny room above the entrance, which was a nineteenth century replacement, in smooth ashlar of Stancliffe stone, quite rectangular but with a discreet moulding, but over which was inscribed,

probably secondarily rather than transplanted: 16 AOM 74 To the right of the entrance was a four light ground floor mullioned window with a three light one above, neither graced with a hood mould, a pattern repeated on the next bay to the east and the range – unusually long for a Derbyshire small manor house – ended with a superimposed pair of two light mullioned windows.

At this end, the walling was closer to random rubble, but it turned the angle with another stone coped and finialled gable. The roof was slated.

This front faced southwards, down the slope towards the river, but the west side was blind and interrupted only by a very substantial projecting chimney breast supporting a pair of diamond section stone stacks, the chimney breast probably well pre-dating 1624. The north side seems to have escaped visual record but, with the ground rising steeply and a north aspect, it probably had few windows but a door to the farmyard and stables. There were six hearths taxable in 1670, and ten rooms in the domestic part of the house according to the census of 1911.

later opened on the family’s land. The well head survives, listed grade II and was restored

by Adam Wolley in 1821.

In Queen Elizabeth’s reign, we find a Richard Wendesley, presumably of a junior branch of the family, selling the estate to one Anthony Wolley (as it was then spelt) of Riber Manor.

Although the surviving pedigrees do not show it, it seems likely that Anthony had married Richard Wendesley’s sister, for his coat-of-arms in the heralds’ visitation shows his arms impaled (placed alongside on the same shield) with those of the junior Wendesleys: ermine on a bend engrailed gules three escallops.

Thus, the Wolleys of Riber

acquired Allen Hill.

TheWo[o]lleys had originally come from Wolley in Hollingworth, Cheshire, in the later 13th century. Their arms bear a chevron vairé or and gules, the colouring of the arms of their feudal overlords, the de Ferrers Earls of Derby, who probably granted them at some date prior to their disgrace and attainder in 1268. William, son of Ralph, settled at Broadbottom Hall in Longendale, but in 1460 his descendant in the fourth generation, acquired by marriage with the heiress of John Robotham of Riber a small estate there and, enlarging his holding by purchase, established a house on the site of the present

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The stable block appears to have been approximately contemporary with the house at one end and bore yet another inscription, 1653, over the door.

Further long, the range had been extended, presumably in the eighteenth century, probably as a carriage shed, and a final stone was inscribed: IW 1774

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The estate was reportedly modest, about 800 acres, and the land, which seems to have taken its name from an unrecorded family called Alleyne (to give the earliest recorded spelling, which was how most Allens were spelt prior to the Early Modern period) was originally part of the once extensive estate of the Wendesley family of Wendesley, who, we must presume, inherited it from a branch of the White Peak Alleynes, who had given it their name. The hill itself, called The Dimple had lead mines within it, and at the foot a small spa was

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manor house.

Anthony Wolley died in 1576 leaving three sons: Adam who inherited Riber, and whose descendants built the present hall, Thomas who settled at Bonsall, and John who was given Allen Hill. John probably built the original house, and his efforts were no doubt the east end of the building where the stone blocks were much rougher and unevenly brought to course, and the west wall of the crosswing. However, if we may trust the date stones, the house that survived to be photographed was rebuilt by Anthony Wolley (1594-1655). He had married in 1615 and probably began to rebuild gradually, the date probably marking the completion of the works. What the ‘GC’ and the hieroglyph beneath meant is quite unclear: neither his wife nor anyone in the family bear these initials; they may have been re-cut from an unreadable original.

The next date, re-cut over the door, is 1674. The A and M stand for Adam Wolley (1648-1710) and his first wife Millicent, daughter of Wirksworth lead entrepreneur Henry Wigley The original stone may have been damaged, for it would have originally read, as convention demanded

A*M W 1674 Probably, again, it had suffered weathering. Finally, a descendant, John Wolley (17191794) seems to have extended the stable block.

The last of the family was Adam Wolley FSA (1758-1827) the antiquary, whose collection of manuscripts and gleanings forms an important element of Derbyshire material in the British Library. His memorial; tablet in St. Giles, Matlock, has the torches on knowledge inverted on either side of the inscription, the Roman indication of death.

His daughter and heiress carried house and estate to Revd. John Hurt, a younger son of the Hurts of Alderwasley, who took the surname and arms in lieu of his own by Royal Licence in 1867.

His son, Charles, also a parson, married Frances Lucy Parker, the heiress of the last of the Dod family of Edge Hall, in Cheshire, and took the name and combined arms of Wolley-Dod. Edge Hall was a far grander affair than poor little Allen Hill which, in any case, had been let as a farm after the death of the antiquary’s father in 1807.

Anthony Holmes was the first tenant, followed for many years

Allen Hill ‘Spaw’: the head of the Chalybeate spring as restored

by Adam Wolley in 1821.

[Private collection]

22 | www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk

by the Stevens family. After them came Matlock butcher Edward Slack and he was followed by the last tenants, the Taylors, Frederick retiring in 1931, after which the house lay empty.

The Wolley-Dods, sold the land apparently to enable the building of a new hydro, and the house was demolished by the seemingly rather drastic method of blasting with dynamite in 1934, all that survived being some ancient walls, a barn converted into a garage and at least one date-stone, built into walling nearby. The hydro, if built, seems not to have prospered (probably killed off finally by World War Two) and it was eventually cleared and modern housing built in the site.

The Wolleys were famously long-lived, as a couple of their monuments in the parish church testify. Adam Wolley and his wife Grace were married for 76 years and survived the Civil War and lived, respectively to 99 and 110!

There are other monuments to the family in the church including a splendid funeral hatchment above the chancel arch.

The streets, of course, are named after the house, the family, Edge Hall and Malpas, where Edge Hall still stands!

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Modern Collectibles

by Maxwell Craven

Station Name Signs

Bakewell (LMS) a cast iron solid target sign, 1950s.

S

o often one can awake from a reverie in the corner seat of a railway carriage when the train stops and look out through a grimy window to see where one is: a helpful sign on the platform, lamp standard or station building quickly puts one right and allows one to slip back into the arms of Morpheus.

Such signs go back to the earliest days of railways and stations. By the way, avoid the Americanism ‘train station’: in this country ‘station’ has always meant a railway station (the correct qualification), whereas it was fire, police, feeding and other stations that required qualification!

Modern collectible station name signs really begin with the grouping of our railways into the ‘Big Four’ in 1923 and ends more recently with the denationalisation of the railways from 1996. Usually each station used to have a large board towards the ends of the platforms, sometimes two, mounted in a ‘V‘, with timber (occasionally cast iron) letters applied to a wooden board. These are now very rare, especially as, being outside, they tended to decay.

Thus from 1923 each of the four companies: the Southern (SR), Great Western (GWR), London Midland & Scottish (LMS) and London & North Eastern (LNER) tended to replace such signs with enamelled metal ones in their own colours. The SR produced target signs, green background with the name horizontally across a central annulet with white centre. The LMS used a maroon background and similarly used a circular centre but it was integral with the banner part of the sign to make a solid effect, whilst the LNER used dark blue rectangular enamel with white lettering. The GWR as a rule used white letters on a black background.

These signs can fetch from about £30 up to around £400, depending on condition and most especially,

Adlestrop’s GWR sign now embellishing the local ’bus shelter.

Leamington Spa (GWR) 1920s or before, still in situ.

Malvern Wells (GWR) typical platform sign, a rare enamel example 1930s, still in situ. 1920s or before, still in situ.

Southern Railway, Blackfriars (London) target sign, 1930s.

26 | www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk

what place’s name they bore. Some places have resonance: large cities (obviously), long lost stations, places where a potential purchaser lives, and those with associations, like Adlestrop (GWR: Edward Thomas’s touching 1917 poem). These factors can push up the price enormously. A typical example of an ex-GWR platform lamp tablet is one for Horsehay & Dawley (Salop) which made £580 at auction last year, whilst a large wooden station sign for Park Hall Halt (GWR) made £750. A similar one for Adlestrop was rescued in 1965 upon closure and was re-erected under the ’bus stop shelter for the replacement ’bus service. Alnwick (LNER blue lamp tablet) made £520.

But if one cannot source a sign from before the Railways were nationalised

Sheringham (Eastern Region) now part of the North Norfolk Railway.

Caerleon on the Western Region; there were only ever four signs on this station increasing rarity.

Blackpool North (Midland Region) a place with resonance for some!

Fraserburgh (Scottish region) with some obvious corrosion.

York (NE region), this probably a replica sign.

(All station signs from private collections) in 1948, there is plenty of scope over the ensuing 20 years (when a boring new corporate image began to eat into the colour) but, oddly, the price tends to rise. British Railways, as the system then became, evolved what is called the totem sign: the roundended banner being placed across a round angled rectangle and edged in white, with white letters. These were applied universally, although less so on the former Southern, where that company’s rather similar target signs tended to survive in large numbers.

What gave the totem signs their interest, apart from the places themselves (many of which ceased to have any function since the start of the slashing and burning régime of Lord Beeching of East Grinstead in the mid-1960s), was that the Nationalised concern split the network up into regions approximately based on the territories of the ‘Big Four’. Thus, the Southern’s signs remained green (albeit of a more virid shade), the GWRs were brown, the Midland (exLMS) region was still maroon (a distant echo of ‘Midland Red’ as applied to rolling stock and locomotives at Derby

from the 1870s) and the LNER was a blue similar to that used previously.

Added to that a region was created for the North East (orange) and another for Scotland (bleu de celeste).

Although these signs are much more ubiquitous and prices for unremarkable places can start at £500, resonance again can inflate the cost of acquiring one considerably.

Whilst Mablethorpe (Eastern Region) made £2,800 recently, Northampton Castle (Midland) made £6,100, Stourbridge Junction made £1000 whilst Overton (Southern), a measly £960. Waterloo, being common (from the sheer size of the station – 21 platforms) made but £820. Yet on an on-line auction site, Grove Park (Southern Railway target) had failed to make its reserve of £21 in January!

Another subject of nostaligic poetry (this time John Betjeman) was totem (SR) for Dilton Marsh Halt, estimated at £2,000-2,500.

The value of these later signs, though, have led to a burgeoning trade in replica ones, of the right size and colour. You can order one from any Newsham (LNER) a dark blue enamel sign with a direction symbol adding interest.

Dilton Marsh Halt, Somerset & Dorset (BR (S)) as celebrated

by Betjeman, with auctioneer Richard Edmonds 2017.

one of a number of firms who will make you one with whatever name you want on it. The problem is, how do you tell the difference? The answer (assuming the name borne is not obviously unlikely) is: wear. The originals were set up in stations either outside or, if under canopy cover, at least open to weather, smoke, steam, aerial pollution and casual vandalism.

They will show signs of wear, and signs of fixing. Many were attached to lamp standards with brackets, and the brackets tended to rust whereas the signs, unless damaged, were protected by their enamel.

Thus, whilst signs in generally tatty condition are likely to be genuine, those appearing to be in superb condition, need to be looked at much more closely for signs of attachment and wear if they are to pass muster as genuine.

Later and post-BR signs tend to lack colour and interest and, although there are substantial numbers out there, they do not appear to be particularly collectible. Their sheer uniformity and lack of colour has militated against that!

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only means you are supporting the British Made Trade, you are getting quality products which are built to last.

So how do we ensure we tick all the right boxes? We listen to our customers! In the 18 years the business has been running the workflows and products have been streamlined to perfection. From excellent communication to after care, our fully trained fitters will take all the worry out of your hands!

So if you are looking for a BBQ Cabin to entertain in all year round, and you would like to know that you have the best building on the market, then look no further! Talk to our team today on 0115 932 8888 or visit our show site next to the Toton Tram station, Nottingham.

A Lawn for All Seasons Use your garden all year round

Before After

awns nvi E L Artificial Grass Installers 38 | CountryImagesMagazine.co.uk

Child and Pet friendly Low maintenance No watering No lawnmowers UV Stabilised No weeding Ideal for shaded areas No more soggy garden Most lawns finished in 2 days

01773 252254 07525 334363

www.envi-lawns.co.uk

0115 932 8888

BESPOKE GARDEN ROOMS

ARCTIC BBQ CABINS

0115 932 8888 - Jacqui

“

decision we could have made, “ It's the best money well spent!

251 Toton Lane Nottingham NG9 7JA Open 10am - 4pm, 7 Days a Week

www.cabinmaster.co.uk

www.arcticcabins.co.uk

CountryImagesMagazine.co.uk | 39

Enhance t beauty of Visit our amazing new showroom to view the finest selection of Windows and Doors.

www.derwentwindows.co.uk

‘Enhance the value and beauty of your home with real timber windows and doors’ Our collection of engineered timber windows and doors has been carefully and sensitively tailored to complement your home with styles and designs to suit both traditional and modern properties, offering unrivalled quality, beauty and performance.

20

‘The UK’s leading manufacturer of aluminium Bi-folding Doors, Windows and Blinds’

%

Origin’s products combine high grade aluminium with precision engineering to create functional and elegant products which are designed to last.

OFF

ALL TIMBER WINDOWS & DOORS ‘The perfect low maintenance timber alternative sash window’ If you believe, like us, that original sliding sash windows are the most beautiful window style of all time, you’re sure to appreciate our elegant yet pioneering sash wind designs from an award winning manufacturer.

SA LE

‘The UK’s best composite doors’

Solidor is the nation’s favourite manufacturer and supplier of composite doors. Fitted and installed via a nationwide network of approved installers, the extensive Solidor range of composite doors are widely admired for their stunning design, and unparalleled security.

UNTIL 31 ST JANUARY 2018 BESPOKE WINDOWS & DOORS

“Exquisite, Handcrafted Timber Alternative Windows & Doors” Individually designed to adhere to Evolution’s exacting principles, our luxury, bespoke windows blend specialist knowledge with the finest materials and craftsmanship to realise the ultimate next generation window.

40 | CountryImagesMagazine.co.uk

Winter Sale Ripley advert - country images.indd 1

“Absolutely delighted with our new sash windows from Derwent. The products are first class. The fitting team were brilliant, preparing each room with plastic sheeting before fitting. Outstanding service all round highly recommended.”

See the

Quality for yourselves

Visit our Ripley Showroom

Tel: 01773 747456 Email: info@derwentwindows.co.uk Web: www.derwentwindows.co.uk Showroom: The Old Church, 31 Nottingham Road, Ripley, Derbyshire, DE5 3AS Opening Times: Monday – Saturday 9:30am – 4:30pm CountryImagesMagazine.co.uk | 41

CREATE YOUR

DREAM HOME Glass Balustrade & Staircase Specialists

Energy saving.

The up-front cost of solar panels has fallen by over 30% in recent years reducing significantly the up front cost.

Even in the UK’s sometimes gloomy climate, photovoltaic solar panels are simply dependent on daylight – not on hours of sunshine. A recent report from the Department of Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy compared the costs of future energy projects, and found that solar could beat conventional gas systems by large margins.

Fine bespoke architectural metalwork in steel, stainless steel, brass, copper and glass.

Contact us now for a free quotation or just to discuss your requirements

Tel: 01629 820030

www.elysion.uk.com service@elysion.uk.com Elysion Ltd, Willowbath Mill, Water Lane, Wirksworth, Derbys DE4 4AA

Made to Measure Wardrobes Direct from the Manufacturer

MEASURING AND FITTING SERVICE AVAILABLE.

Typical Savings 40% less than high street made to measure outlets.

Wardrobe kits start from £404 to over £3000 Design your own wardrobe online using our easy to use design tool.

Typical delivery is 2 weeks for supply only kits and 2 - 3 weeks for our full design and install service.

we’re thinking for you

Call 01773 600040 www.gliderobes.co.uk Showroom open hours: Weekdays 9am-5pm. Saturday 10am-4pm

Unit 4, Hill Top Road, Amber Business Centre, Riddings, Derbyshire, DE55 4BR 42 | CountryImagesMagazine.co.uk

Hardwood Logs Ltd Naturally seasoned and kiln-dried hardwood logs available for collection or delivery

Mitech

Automation & Manual

celebrating 30 years of firewood production

ETS KILN DRIED LOG N £5 ASH, OAK OR BIRCH Nice

VISIT OUR SHOP FOR:

• Log Stands, baskets and stove accessories • Derbyshire-made candles and lanterns • Unique home and garden products made by local crafts folk.

• BBQ smoking chips Simon and Jackie Ludlam, Hardwood Logs Ltd, Holly Grange Farm, Lea Moor, Lea, Matlock, Derbyshire DE4 5RA

TEL: 01629 534475

sales@hardwoodlogsltd.co.uk www.hardwoodlogsltd.co.uk

The Unit, Mount Pleasant, Derby Road, Ripley DE5 8NN T: 01773 570577 www.mitechjoinery.co.uk

The Area’s Longest Established

Fireplace & Stove Centre

All Types of Fire & Fireplaces Gas, Electric, Solid Fuel Multi Fuel Stoves Stoves to fit Existing Fireplaces, Stone, Timber, Granite, Marble, Slate & Cast Iron Installation, Upgrades, Spares & Repair

NEW

YS DISPoLuAr in

om

showro

15 Nottingham Road, Ripley, Derbyshire DE5 3DJ, Telephone: 01773 749506 Established 1981

CountryImagesMagazine.co.uk | 43

CREATE YOUR

DREAM HOME As we would expect, new technology has reduced the cost of solar panels.

Sunlight is free, so once you’ve paid for the panels you can start reaping the rewards. The savings can be up to hundreds of pounds per year and reduce your carbon footprint too. Do your homework first before buying into this area though as with everything legislation changes over the years, and there are always pro’s and cons.

Underfloor heating has developed and improved in recent years and along with being energy efficient, it leaves walls clear for furniture and decoration.

A simple way to save money.

Light pollution is of increasing concern as more and more people feel the need to light up the outside of their homes for both safety and aesthetic reasons. Dark nights are a thing of the past in many areas as the night sky is affected by copious outside lights

from homes, roads and businesses.

Changing both the outside and inside lights to energy saving bulbs will make a huge difference. Even switching them off at night when we retire can make a saving on energy bills. Natural light though is always a winner in any home. Many extensions now feature elevations that are entirely made up of glass removing the need for continually having lights on. We don’t pay window tax anymore so make the most of that!

The kitchen has become a real focal point of our homes. Renewing old units, redesigning your kitchen or building an extension to accommodate a living or breakfast area brings the kitchen into more of a family friendly space. The focus is on making it a space where families can be together. Single story extensions have become very popular but don’t forget that it’s not much more to put a roof on a single story as it is a double one! The bit in the middle can be well utilised.

PH & MTO Property Maintenance and Landscaping • No job too small.

• Brick & stone work pointing.

• Repairs, cleaning or replacement of guttering.

• Decking and landscaping work.

• All types of improvement work undertaken.

• 40 years in the building trade.

• Trusted and local.

Ideas to transform your garden Give me a call on 07855 798194 on at home 01773 832249

GATES UNBELIEVABLE LOW PRICES

Free Measuring Service.

Fitting Service Available.

Various designs and weights available

ORNAMENTAL ENGINEERING www.ornamentalengineering.com

Tel 01773 533393

Wrought Iron Gates – Railings – Fencing – Security Grills

Uni1 1a, Taylor Lane Industrial Estate, Loscoe, Derbyshire DE75 7TA

44 | CountryImagesMagazine.co.uk

DERBY’S LARGEST AND MOST EXCITING

bathroom showroom

RGEST AND MOST EXCITING

om showroom

baths • showers • toilets • shower enclosures • basins • furniture • suites • taps • heating

baths • showers • toilets • shower enclosures • basins • furniture • suites • taps • heating

s • shower enclosures • basins • furniture • suites • taps • heating

up to

70% discount

• Massive 6,000 sq ft showroom • Unbeatable internet prices - guaranteed • Over 100 bathroom settings on show

• Massive 6,000 sq ft showroom

• Vast product stock for immediate despatch

• Unbeatable internet prices - guaranteed

• FREE in-store bathroom planning service

• Over 100 bathroom settings on show

• Trade enquiries welcome

• Vast product forConran, immediate despatch Brands also stock include: Hudson Reed, Kudos, Rak, Roper Rhodes, Ted Baker and many more.

• FREE in-store bathroom planning service

FIND US: Canal Street, Derby, DE1 2RJ

DERBY’S • Trade enquiriesLARGEST welcome

AND MOST EXCITING BATHROOM SHOWROOM

0800 0773 0800 772 0773 FIND US: CanalFREEPHONE: Street, Derby, DE1 2RJ772 FREEPHONE:

reet, Derby, DE1 2RJ

Opening 8.30am - 5.00pm MONMON - SAT- SAT OpeningHours: Hours: 8.30am - 5.00pm

CountryImagesMagazine.co.uk | 45

Brands include: Conran, Hudson Reed, Kudos, Laura Ashley, Rak, Roper Rhodes, Ted Baker and many more.

The Resin Specialists

Driveways • Pathways • Patios

“Where quality matters”

THE COMPANY YOU CAN TRUST

Why Choose a Resin Drive?

4

Maintenance free

4

UV protected - won’t fade or discolour

4

Anti-slip surface

4

The latest premium looks

4

Completely porous - no more puddles

4

Many colours to choose from

4

Weed resistant

4

No sinking or cracking

Join us for a coffee and free advice on colours and designs Unit 1, Amber Drive, Baily Brook Business Park, Langley Mill, Derbyshire NG16 4BE 01773 712 288

•

buffalodriveways.co.uk

46 | CountryImagesMagazine.co.uk

•

sales@buffalodriveways.co.uk

The Resin Specialists

We won’t be beaten on quality and price

Buffalo Driveways are the areas leading installer of porous resin bound driveways, patios and pathways. Buffalo will transform your driveway old or new.

As well as laying resin on a new base, in many cases we can overlay existing surfaces (subject to survey) which means less mess and a faster result.

Don’t just take our word for it, check out our reviews on…

Why Choose Buffalo Driveways?

4

A well-known name you can trust, backed by unbeatable service.

4

10 year guarantee on driveways with sub-base completed by us or alternatively 5 years on overlay only, all insurance backed.

4

Full design and planning service backed by a full technical survey.

4

No pushy salesmen, we have fully trained surveyors.

4

All Buffalo staff are fully trained in groundworks and resin laying, all with valid certificates.

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Over 100 local installations for you to view.

Call for a FREE quote

01773 712 288

You’d be surprised at how little a new Buffalo resin driveway would cost

Join us for a coffee and free advice on colours and designs Unit 1, Amber Drive, Baily Brook Business Park, Langley Mill, Derbyshire NG16 4BE 01773 712 288

•

buffalodriveways.co.uk

•

sales@buffalodriveways.co.uk

CountryImagesMagazine.co.uk | 47

Time For Home Improvements?

L

ooking for wooden furniture but can’t find something that exactly suits? Have an idea for a wooden furniture item but don’t know where to find it? Nestled within the residential and commercial mill buildings by The Courtyard in Draycott village is a hidden gem of a furniture making business.

Incite Interiors makes beautiful furniture and can boast a wealth of experience within their manufacturing workshop. It is unusual to find a company where two of their directors manufacture. Mark Buckley being a cabinet maker and Mark Nicholson who acquired furniture making skills at the now iconic Stag furniture company. Incite Interiors furniture is handcrafted for every room of your home, bedroom, lounge, dining, home office, kitchen.

The best way for you to gain a proper understanding of the quality and view the diverse range of fabulous free standing and fitted furniture products made, is by visiting their website www.inciteinteriors.co.uk because their showroom in Draycott village cannot house all of the many types of bespoke furniture pieces lovingly manufactured for their customers homes.

All furniture is handcrafted to order to individual requirements and their showroom in Draycott village is open 6 days a week and all visitors are welcome.

Paradise Carpets

Flooring by

Ian Wilson Carpets

Family run business with over 30 years experience in flooring.

Visit us for all your flooring needs

Free Estimates and Quotes Mob: 07971 437901 10 Openwoodgate, Belper DE56 0SD Tel: 01773 880398 www.ianwilsoncarpetsbelper.co.uk

14c Town Street, Duffield DE56 4EH Tel: 01332 843989

“We’re not satisfied until you are”

Suppliers of luxury vinyl flooring

Available in store

1, The Walkway, Grosvenor Road, Ripley, Derbyshire DE5 3JF

01773 746318

• Chemical Free Rotary Cleaning • All Types of Flat Surfaces Est • Block Paving, 2004 Slabs, Decking • Printed Concrete • Resin Weather Sealing Tarmac Recolouring (Black or Red) • Free Quotations No job too big & Advice or small Any Genuine Find us on Quote Beaten! Facebook

Tel: Martin 01246 865537 or 07970 482956

www.premierpowercleaning.co.uk

New for 2020

Stump Grin

der

Get rid of th at tree stump in your garden

07711 934 377 - 01773 761970 enquiries@jttrees.co.uk www.jttrees.co.uk

CREATE YOUR

DREAM HOME Conservatories, orangeries and garden rooms are all places into which the kitchen can flow, giving easy access to the garden and making them ideal places for a great party or family get together. Again, talking it out first with an architect can bring enormous benefits.

The final question is: Will you do it all yourself, project manage it yourself or get a contractor in? Whichever you choose the people in the feature can help you make your new home a Real Home.

Credit: Architectural Windows www.architecturalwindows-derby.co.uk

All information correct at date of publication: February 2020.

CLS Builders We are a local family run business offering high standards of workmanship with 35 years experience in the building trade.

Specialising in all aspects of building work from concept to completion!

• New Builds • Extensions • Brickwork & Block-work • Project Management • UPVC Soffit & Fascia • Wood-burners & Flues.

We take pride in customer satisfaction.

Happy to help with your building project .

Call now on 07980435236 or 01773 819933 Chris.long7@sky.com

50 | CountryImagesMagazine.co.uk

PS

P AUL S MITH Building & Roofing 07535 494487

paulsmithbuilder@gmail.com Covering Derbyshire, from as little as a tile replacement to full extensions

GET READY FOR WINTER… • ‘A’ rated boiler installations • Central heating power flushing

Driveways Windows Facias Soffits

B u i l d e r s & D r i ve w a y s

Covering Derbyshire & Nottinghamshire

Years of experiance in complete bathroom installations. Contact us for a quote and discover how we can handle every aspect of supply and installation

3Yea0rs

FOR ALL PLUMBING, HEATING & GAS SERVICES

TEL: 01773 540854 | MOB: 07968 772224 EMAIL: b.sole@sky.com WEB: www.bsoleplumbing.co.uk

Beech Pure Clean

THE NEXT GENERATION IN WINDOW CLEANING

www.windowcleaningderbyshire.co.uk Tel: 01629 825 340 | Mob: 07899 034 738 Patio’s, Driveways and Decking Cleaned and Sealed Window and Conservatory Cleaning Free Quotes & Fully Insured

Dirty Gutters?

Our high powered system makes light work of any gutter and you can see the results instantly

Roof Cleaning & Moss Removal Before

After

experience

The Gate Maker

Made to measure Gates, Railings & Ironwork Phone NOW for your FREE on site quotation Fitting Service Available

Dove Bow Top Double Gates 4 ft high 7 ft gap only £462 4 ft high 12 ft gap only £792 6 ft high 7 ft gap only £714 6 ft high 12 ft gap only £1224

Dove Flat Top Double Gates 3 ft high 7 ft gap only £399 3 ft high 12 ft gap only £684 6 ft high 7 ft gap only £630 6 ft high 12 ft gap only £1080

All gates come complete with brackets tofit to wall or existing post (posts not included)

01773 745822

www.thegatemaker.co.uk Shot Blast & Powder Coating Specialists in refurbishing wrought iron gates

We also offer a Chimney Sweep & Stove Installation Service

Phone 01773 745822 NOW

Motor Bike Frames, Garden Furniture Collection Service Available for a small charge

CountryImagesMagazine.co.uk | 51

Woodwards Estate Agents - “Investing in you”

A

fter working in the business for over 20 years Laura Woodward came to realise the simple mistakes most estate agents are making today. Without the restrictions of corporate rules and shareholders to please she can give you not only the best marketing proposition but the best of herself.

Laura says “I recognise that moving house is the biggest investment of many people’s lives, not only financially but emotionally too. By challenging the norm I can support the entire process of moving by offering a modern, interactive and open approach to your move. I believe that although the marketing is a massive part in selling your home, what’s also important are regular contact, updates and honesty from me as your agent, which really does make the whole process easier and more enjoyable. Stand out from the crowd with our free enhanced marketing.”

FREE PROFESSIONAL PHOTOGRAPHY Our local professional photographer knows how to capture images to ensure your property looks at its best. From knowing how to showcase your space to digital enhancements, your home will have never looked better.

FREE 360° VIRTUAL TOUR

Create an engaging and immersive experience for your buyer. Our fully interactive software enables your buyer to tour your property online, selling its benefits before they even book a viewing.

FREE FLOORPLAN In many respects floor plans are more useful than pictures as they allow people to gain a better understanding of how suitable that particular property is in terms of size and layout. Rightmove research shows that a third of buyers are less likely to enquire about a property without a floorplan.

FREE EPC - Since 2007 it has been mandatory for all sales and lettings properties to have a current Energy Performance Certificate. Most agents will not only charge you for this, but also take a further cut from the energy assessor.

As this is a necessity of marketing your property, we feel this cost should be part of your free premium marketing package.

“I can unreservedly recommend Laura Woodward to sell or find the right home for you. Laura really does provide that attention to detail when marketing your home. For every home she sells Laura will bring the best out of your property from the description to the photography to her honest and positive marketing. If you are looking for your dream home Laura understands people and will get to know you and therefore find you the home you are looking for.” – Mr. D Taylor “We took to Laura as soon as she came to value our home and were over the moon when she sold it and found us our new place. We have kept in touch and will definitely be using her in the future.” –

Mrs. C Start

FREE

ENHANCED MARKETING FREE Professional Photography

FREE 360° Virtual Tour

FREE Floorplan

FREE EPC

REGULAR CONTACT WITH AN AGENT THAT CARES Call Laura today to arrange a FREE no obligation valuation of your home.

0.75%+VAT (Minimum fees apply)

NO SALE, NO FEE.

Woodward Estate Agents PO BOX 8398, Ripley DE5 4DE T 01773 748888 E contact@woodwardea.com W woodwarddea.com

52 | CountryImagesMagazine.co.uk

Inno Inno Alum Alum D D

Architectural Windows and Glazing

Innovative Aluminium Designs Heritage Windows and Doors provide the ideal solution for heritage applications such as renovations and large scale replica refurbishment projects where planning constraints are to be considered.

Thermally Efficient Powder Coated in a variety of colours

Visit Visitour ourshowroom showroomat: at: Old OldHall HallMill MillBusiness BusinessPark, Park,Little LittleEaton, Eaton,Derby DerbyDE21 DE215Ej. 5Ej.

Visit our showroom at: Old Hall Mill Business Park, Little Eaton, Derby DE21 5EJ.

Call Call 01332 01332835212 835212 Call 01332 835212 www.architecturalwindows.org.uk www.architecturalwindows.org.uk

www.architecturalwindows-derby.co.uk Open OpenMonday Monday– –Friday Friday9am 9am– –5pm.

5pm.Evenings Eveningsand andWeekends Weekendsby byappointment. appointment.

Open Monday – Friday 9am – 5pm. Evenings and Weekends by appointment.

CountryImagesMagazine.co.uk | 53

Pennine Paving turns 30!

30 years supplying reclaimed stone to the public Pennine Paving have a large stone yard based at Newhaven, Derbyshire situated between Ashbourne and Buxton on the A515.

We have a great range of stone products including reclaimed Yorkstone flags, gritstone and granite setts which we have specialised in from the beginning but then moved on to new stone paving from India, China and Turkey. Now we have porcelain paving from Italy in 10 different colours and textures. We stock new tumbled and blackened sandstone walling stone. We have a large stock of old railway sleepers, oak barrels, hearthstones, lintels and jambs. Also stone troughs from 12inch square to granite troughs measuring 12feet by 4feet by 3feet (huge). Stock is constantly changing so it is always worth a visit to find that special feature. We also have the expertise to meet your stone requirements whilst providing you with a reliable and competitive service.

Country

app

it’s FREE to download today… and tomorrow… and the day after that too!!

We go one better than a free trial, County Images app is always free to download, so get it now and read every Country Images Magazine on your smart phone or tablet today. Just another reason we’re Derbyshire’s best read lifestyle magazine!

Our knowledgeable staff are always on hand to offer advice and help you with planning for your project and we offer a reliable and efficient delivery service.

Call Liam on 07977589305 or 01298 84173 for a chat, or email sales@penninepaving.co.uk with your requirements.

54 | CountryImagesMagazine.co.uk

or visit www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk

SO MANY

EXTRAS AT NO EXTRA COST

OUR STANDARD SPECIFICATION IS

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BRACKENFIELD VIEW W E S S I N G TO N

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Now taking reservations on 2, 3, 4 and 5 bedroom homes from £245,950 Showhome open Thurs - Sun 11-5 and by appointment at all other times.

Register your interest by calling us on 01773 417474 or Scargill Mann & Co on 01629 584591.

www.meadowviewhomes.co.uk CountryImagesMagazine.co.uk | 55

Gardening in March

L

ike many people in horticulture you tend to spend a lot of time looking at the weather forecasts. So far, March is predicted to be warmer and drier than last year. Your pansies might not have performed like they used to (because of the wet weather) but primulas and spring flowering bulbs will; so stock up with those to give you much needed colour for this time of year. Now everything is starting to show signs of life in the garden it’s good practice to put a handful of general purpose fertiliser around the base of your new and semi-new plants.

Shortly there will be plenty of ready done baskets and containers in the garden centres; if you don’t have the know-how to plant your own. This will save you the effort and also saves buying extra plants and compost you may not need.

General Garden Maintenance • Refresh alpine gardens with new grit and replace any old plants that may have died over winter.

• Refill any bird feeders with new seed or nuts and provide fresh drinking water.

• Check borders for new emerging weed seedlings and hoe them out.

• Weather permitting, tidy up the lawn by trimming

56 | www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk

new edges with a half moon and give the lawn a cut setting the blades on high.

• Dig in plenty of home-made or nursery bought compost in to borders ready for planting herbaceous perennials or summer flowering bulbs.

• Buy summer flowering bulbs now such as gladioli, lily and eucomis.

• Lift and divide large clumps of herbaceous perennials and trade them with friends or neighbours.

• Prune hard back last year’s buddleia stems to ground level.

• Last chance to prune roses back to new shoots.

• Feed and mulch rhododendrons, azaleas, pieris and camellias with ericaceous (acidic) plant food and compost.

• Sprinkle fertiliser over flower beds and around shrubs and roses • Check your garden for plants that didn’t make it through the winter, look in nurseries or garden centres for “bargain plant” areas these can sometimes have more than 50% off.

In the Allotment or Vegetable Patch • Sow vegetable seed; it’s cheaper than buying bigger plants. Crops from vegetables often produce more than you can use so again trade the surplus with friends or family. Nurseries and garden centres will have a grow-your-own section with seeds, trays, compost etc. to get you started.

• Sow the following crops outside or under cloches: carrots, beetroot, broad beans, salad onions, cauliflower, cabbage, Brussels sprouts, spinach, leeks, lettuce, rocket, coriander, mixed salad or

Gardening in March R.M. TREE SURGERY

and Hedge Services

Quality Service & High Standard Assured • TREE FELLING • HEDGE CUTTING

• TREE PRUNING & TOPPING WINTER S NT OU SC DI • CONIFERS REDUCED OR TAKEN OUT AVAILABLE

Fully Insured For a Free No Obligation Quote Call Rob on 07841 422 310 or 01773 607409

ALL TYPES OF GARDEN WORK UNDERTAKEN Maintenance, Grass/Hedge Cutting, Rockeries, Paving, Fencing, Ponds, Planting (various) Including all types of DIY jobs you never get round to doing

Riders From £1,199 Tractors £1,649 - £4,079 Petrol mowers £139 - £949

CORDLESS MOWERS NOW IN STOCK

BELMONT MOWER CENTRE DOMESTIC AND PROFESSIONAL GARDEN MACHINERY SPECIALISTS

Sales – Service – Repairs – Parts – Warranty

68-70 Alfreton Rd, South Normanton, Alfreton, DE55 2AS

Tel: 01773 86 39 39 Open: Mon - Fri 9am-5pm | Sat 9am - 1pm *Price includes promotional offer

Outdoor Furniture Designed and made in Wirksworth from Recycled Plastic Waste

Full Garden Makeovers No Job Too Small • Free Quotations No Obligation • Special Rates for OAPs COMPLETE GARDEN SERVICE/DIY

For an affordable, reliable service Ring Steve on

01773 607993 or 07778 200200 Our furniture not only looks goods, it will last a lifetime with very little maintenance. It will not rot.

SEE OUR EXTENSIVE RANGE AT WWW.TDP.CO.UK OR VISIT OUR SHOWROOM

Fully insured for:

Seats & benches, chairs, tables & dining sets, children’s range, memorial & personalised furniture, nature and garden products.

Tree Surgery, Hedge Cutting, Hedge Removal, Pruning, Landscaping Free Quotes

Local, Reliable, Professional and Mature Businessman Please call Steve for advice and a free no-obligation quotation.

T: 01773 856602 T: 01629 828101 M: 07739 834553 www.clipemandfellem.co.uk

Tel: 01629 820011 Email: info@tdp.co.uk TDP Ltd, Derby Road, Wirksworth, DE4 4BG

www.tdp.co.uk

Visit our showroom Mon-Fri 9.30am-4.30pm

www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk | 57

In the Greenhouse • stir fry leaves, radish, turnip, peas, and Swiss chard.

• Spread a layer of sulphate of potash fertilizer around fruit trees and soft fruit.

• When they appear, spray new leaves of peaches and nectarines with copper fungicide to reduce or prevent peach leaf curl.

• Sprinkle cabbages and other brassicas with pelleted chicken manure or blood, fish and bone.

• Check fruit trees for “suckers” or grass around the trunk and remove, also put a handful of garden lime around the base of the fruit tree.

• Plant early seed potatoes outside in rows, in large pots or potato bags.

Magnolia stellata: (Star Magnolia)

One of my favourite “feature” plants for the garden, a beautiful compact shrub with dark green glossy leaves and masses of pure white “star” shaped flowers in spring before the foliage appears. Ideal for a garden with limited space as this variety will only reach about 4 to 5ft

Azalea Japonica Beautiful white Japanese Azalea is a lovely early spring shrub ideal for borders. With masses of papery white blooms in April and May, tinged with delicate pink veins.

Azaleas are reasonably low maintenance, they just need reasonably moist soil and are ideal for shaded areas.

58 | www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk

• Buy your summer bedding “plug” plants now, they are cheaper than buying a “finished” plant from a garden centre later in the year.

• Sow dwarf French beans in a large pot for an early crop in June.

• Sow tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers and other greenhouse crops in a heated propagator • Plant up a strawberry hanging basket and leave in the greenhouse for early crops.

• If the weather gets warmer look out for whitefly and red spider mite, and treat at once with a suitable pest control.

• Continue sowing summer bedding plants which include marigolds, tagetes, verbena, zinnia, nicotiana and dahlias in the greenhouse.

Ribes sanguineum:

Or the common name is flowering currant, not to be mistaken for fruiting currants also Ribes. This deciduous shrub is one of the easiest to grow with little or no care. For an abundance of flowers it likes full sun in a well drained but moist soil.

The drooping flower buds start in late March until late April. The varieties to look out for are Ribes ‘ King Edward Vll’ (Scarlet) or ‘ White Icicle’ (White).

Like Forsythia this also makes a good informal hedge.

Please keep contacting me with your gardening problems (If you can please include a photo or as much detail as you can think of as this will help a lot). garden.guru@virginmedia.com Taking bookings for gardening workshops / demonstrations for groups in 2020 & 2021

Mark Smith

24th June, 15th July, 19th August, 16th September and 7th October. Admission £4

Lodge Lane, (off Flagshaw Lane), Kirk Langley, Near Derby, DE6 4NT (next to Kedleston Hall)

Visit our lovely tea rooms serving delicious lunches, homemade cakes and afternoon teas. (Booking advisable for large groups.)

Tea room open from 10am - 4.30pm Monday-Saturday.

Sunday 10am - 4pm Nursery open from 9am -5pm Monday - Saturday.

Sunday 10am - 4pm

01332 824358 www.meynell-langley-gardens.co.uk www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk | 59

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THE BIG QUIZ OF 2020… answers CELEBRITY

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Winners: Meal for two

Pele Derek Underwood Pilates Carl Lewis Bob Willis Polo Bob Willis William Webb Ellis Ten Fanny Blankers-Koen George VI 1926 99 Geoff Capes 29 Snowboarding 30 County Golfer

Mary Smith, Belper.

Runners up: Graham Smedley, Matlock. Jane Doodson, Holbrook. E Lmbley, Brinsley. Sarah Dovey, South Normanton.

Sue Prker, Belper. Jennifer Bacon, West Hallam.

Tom Morton, Oakwood. Sue Rotherham, Somercotes.

A Shapland, Beeston. Angela Butcher, Stanton by Dale.

“I try to go out once every two years to keep the old theatre muscles going. On tour you get to visit some wonderful places. Every week is an opening night so you have to keep yourself focused.”

Steve Orme interviews

Robert Daws

IMAGES LEISURE TIME Celebrity Interview | Walk | Diary | Gallery | Food & Drink

www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk | 61

R His first jobs after graduating were, believe it or not, at the old Derby Playhouse in 1980. He was cast to appear in a stage adaptation of Bram Stoker’s Dracula, Loot

by Joe Orton and Richard Brinsley Sheridan’s comedy of manners The School for Scandal.

obert Daws is feeling nervous. Not something you would expect of a man who’s been acting for 40 years and has appeared in such seminal television series as The Royal and Poldark.

because of Storm Ciara. “That’s the reason for everything,” he declares sincerely.

Hours after our conversation, Robert took to the York Theatre Royal stage in Alan Ayckbourn’s Ten Times Table. In the audience was the legendary playwright himself. No wonder Robert had a touch of the jitters.

He plays “excitable” committee chairman Ray Dixon in the fictional town of Pendon which is trying to organise a pageant. But the committee is divided.

“Alan writes lots of sections where two or three people are talking at the same time.

It’s very much like life, of course. Bu it has its technical challenges.”

“Alan Ayckbourn has dissected the world of the committee and the people on it with wonderful comic observation,” says Robert.

“He spent years on committees being stopped at every turn and occasionally getting a green light. He was certainly writing from something that he knows quite a lot about. “The play hasn’t been done professionally, I believe, since about 1978 after it had been in the West End. It’s been done by amateur groups fairly regularly. In fact I can remember my parents doing it at one point 30 years ago.”

Speaking about Ayckbourn’s watching from the stalls, Robert says: “That’ll put a little bit of fear on the committee!”

He laughs, as he does several times during the interview. It’s obvious Robert, actor, author and more recently podcaster, enjoys what he does.

He loves meeting people on his travels across the country almost as much as he relishes being on stage. But the erudite, affable Bedfordshire resident always makes time for his family, even if it means a 10-hour train journey back home from Edinburgh

Chesterfield’s Pomegranate is on the list of theatres that Ten Times Table will visit and Robert is really enjoying the play. The cast includes Deborah Grant who was in Bergerac and Not Going Out, Robert Duncan of Drop The Dead Donkey fame and former Blue Peter presenter Mark Curry.

“It’s a lovely company of people and everyone gets on well, which is quite nice when you’re doing an ensemble piece.

The tour lasts eight weeks and Robert prefers travelling around Britain to acting in the West End which usually involves a long contract.

“I try to go out once every two years to keep the old theatre muscles going. On tour you get to visit some wonderful places. Every week is an opening night so you have to keep yourself focused. “Audiences around the country are great. They’ve made an effort to come and see a show. And you get to play some of the most beautiful theatres in the world.

“I like the diversity of touring and the constant changes and moving from place to place, theatre to theatre and audience to audience. I find that exciting.”

Robert Daws was born on 4th May 1959 at Leigh-on-Sea, Essex. He trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art. His first jobs after graduating were, believe it or not, at the old Derby Playhouse in 1980. He was cast to appear in a stage adaptation of Bram Stoker’s Dracula, Loot by Joe Orton and Richard Brinsley Sheridan’s comedy of manners The School for Scandal.

Robert felt nervous as he prepared for his first day at the Playhouse – and struggled to find the building.

“I thought ‘I’m lost, I’m going to be late.’ Then someone said ‘you want the Eagle Centre.’

I think the theatre was heavily disguised as a supermarket and then I found this lovely Playhouse. I had a marvellous time.”

After that Robert’s career blossomed. He played pompous cricket captain Roger Dervish in the ITV series Outside Edge for which he was nominated for best comedy actor at the British Comedy Awards.

He then played the co-owner of Cresta Cabs in Roger Roger and Dr Gordon Ormerod in eight series of The Royal on ITV. It was on set that he met Amy Robbins, the younger sister of entertainers Ted and Kate Robbins. She played Dr Jill Weatherall. Robert and Amy married in 2003.

Robert has also had roles in Coronation Street, Doc Martin, Father Brown, Midsomer Murders and Death In Paradise as well as playing Dr Choake in Poldark.

62 | www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk

So is there one part people remember Robert for?

“Some actors become very well known for one particular thing. Because I’ve been fortunate enough to do a variety of work, what tends to happen is that someone will come up and say ‘I loved you in this’ and someone else will say ‘I loved that show.’ And someone else will come up with something I did 30 years ago that I’d completely forgotten about. “It’s one of the fortunate benefits of being what used to be called a character actor. I’ve never been typecast.

I’ve been able to play a variety of things.”

Eight years ago Robert became an author when his crime novel The Rock, about a couple of detectives on Gibraltar, was published. He’s written two more murder mysteries and he’s currently working on a psychological thriller.

Some actors write while they’re on tour – but not Robert. “The thing with theatre is you’re working anti-social hours, so you’re always conserving your energies.

“I’m acutely aware that I’ve got to have a bit of mental and physical puff available at the end of the day or on a midweek or Saturday matinee.

“But I do use the time to read, cogitate and think a lot which is as much a part of the writing process as anything else.

“I tend to work best when I’ve got a clear space of a few weeks when I can just get into a routine of writing.”

The Rock series has been optioned for television although Robert refuses to get carried away about whether it will actually make the small screen.

Partners In Crime, with author Adam Croft. It’s approaching its 100th edition.

Despite his busy schedule, family comes first. He and Amy have two daughters, Betsy and May, while Robert has a son Benjamin from his first marriage. “The moment you have children it’s not about you any more,” says Robert. “Touring has its challenges but I always get back. I’m very much a home bird.

One of the nice things about life is I write at home, so I drive everyone nuts!”

Robert has a couple of television roles coming up over the summer “and then there’s a big project coming up in August which I really can’t talk about. “It’s a project I’ve been working on for two to three years which is going to be touring through the autumn and travelling to America, India and Australia. It’s a labour of love.”

Does Robert want to do anything else in his career? “I think the main ambition is just to keep on going.”

He also wants to help younger actors: “We all need mentors, people who’ll take a chance on us and give us opportunities. “The older you get your mentors have either retired or died. So you suddenly find yourself in the position of being the mentor yourself, if that doesn’t sound too pompous. There’s an old saying: if you’ve had a happy time doing what you do, then send the lift down to the next generation. Actors don’t retire – the phone just stops ringing. My great wish is to keep working.”

Robert Daws can be seen in Ten Times Table at the Pomegranate Theatre, Chesterfield from Monday 9th until Saturday 14th March.

As a parting shot Robert revealed he’s not been asked back by Derby Playhouse, now Derby Theatre, and he’s never worked at the Theatre Royal in Nottingham.

It’s about time those two venues ensure that more East Midlands audiences can get to see Robert Daws’ unmatched talents.

He also keeps busy by presenting a podcast, www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk | 63

Images Walk with Rambler: MILLER’S DALE DISTANCE: 5 miles (8km) of field and river path walking linked by a mile of walled farm track. Reasonably dry underfoot except during lengthy wet spells.

RECOMMENDED MAP: Ordnance Survey1:25,000 scale Outdoor Leisure Series Sheet 24, White Peak area.

PUBLIC TRANSPORT: TM Travel service 65 between Sheffield, Miller’s Dale and Buxton, hourly service, Monday to Sunday. G&J Holmes/ Hulley’s Buxton/ Miller’s Dale service 66. Monday to Sunday.

CAR PARKING: Station yard – pay and display. Toilets on station platform.

REFRESHMENTS: Station waiting room on platform.

T

his walk starts and finishes at the Monsal Trail car park on the site of the old Miller’s Dale Station.

Considering the fact that it appears at first glance to be only serving a scattered rural community, what was the need for such a large station?

The answer lies in the fact that it served two railways, the mainline from London St Pancras to Manchester and the Buxton branch line. Both lines were closed in 1968 following Doctor Beeching’s notorious report. Realising that the mainline passed through some of the finest dale-scenery in Derbyshire, Peak District National Park acquired the section of track between Bakewell and Wyedale, creating the popular Monsal Trail, an all weathers trail for walkers, cyclists and horse riders. A café was opened

in what was once the station waiting room, which together with the adjacent car park, made it an ideal starting point for walks along the trail and on the network of surrounding footpaths.

I must have inadvertently travelled on one of the last trains to call at Miller’s Dale Station in 1968. I had an appointment in Leicester on what turned out to be a densely foggy day, so as I lived at the time, conveniently near the Buxton/Manchester line, I decided to travel by train. Returning later in the day, I got off the London/ Manchester train in order to connect with Buxton. As I stood on the platform I became conscious of an elderly couple being helped down from the First Class coach of the London train, along with their

River Wye at Miller’s Dale

The station waiting room.

Now a busy café wicker suit cases. Waiting for them was a chauffeur complete with oldfashioned leather gaiters and carrying a plaid rug for their comfort. Who the couple were I never discovered, but for a moment I was convinced I had walked into the set of a 1920s film.

This walk starts and finishes at Miller’s Dale Station (pay and display).

Dropping down from the Monsal Trail, it follows the road for a quarter of a mile before climbing the hillside in order to join a section of the Limestone Way. This track runs in a northerly direction to join a minor side road where a left turn drops down to and then across the upper reaches of Monk’s Dale. When this road starts to climb it is abandoned by turning left through a narrow stone stile. This is the start of the only significant climb on the walk; it follows a field path up and across a series of ancient fields leading to the farmstead village of Wormhill. Turning left on to the road through the village the route passes the well dedicated to the canal builder James Brindley who was born nearby. Leaving the road beyond the village, a path on the right is joined and followed downhill, going under the Monsal Trail to reach the River Wye. A footpath along the left bank of the river leads to the road bridge connecting the riverside hamlet of Miller’s Dale to Wormhill. Here the planned walk follows either the road or a path climbing back to the station car park.

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THE WALK

access lane to Monksdale Farm where there was a small chapel in the 14th century – hence the name Monk’s Dale.

1

Leave the station car park and turn right to walk down the side road.

5

Go through a gate on the right of the farmhouse and out on to a rough farm lane. Follow it towards the upland pastures.

2

At the bottom turn left and follow the main road, going beneath the twin viaducts which once carried powerful Midland Railway steam trains from London St Pancras to Manchester.

6

Follow the now grassy walled lane up a steep hill at first and then across the gentle open hill top.

Continue along this track for about a mile, enjoying the views beyond Monk’s Dale. The dale is a nature reserve famous for its rare wild flowers.

3

About 50 yards beyond a corrugated iron cottage, turn left up the rough side road for about 150 yards (135m).

4

Go to the left on reaching a stony track passing behind a group of farm buildings. Join the

7

Reaching a surfaced road, turn left and go downhill.

8

Continue with the road, across Monk’s Dale for about 20 yards (18m) and turn left through a narrow stone stile about 100yards (92m) uphill.

9

Climb the grassy path through a series of narrow fields until it joins a narrow, walled track. Take a breather now and then to enjoy the views of the eastern White Peak beyond Monk’s Dale.

10

Where the track forks, take the left, continuing left into the farmstead village of Wormhill.

11

Follow the village road, past James Brindley’s memorial well, going to the left, downhill for about 200yds (180m) away from the village.

12 To Tideswell

At the bottom of the dip in the road where it bears left, turn right at the footpath signpost and go past a stone cottage, moving downhill through the rocky dell.

13

Walk down the steep scrubcovered hillside as far as the river. Do not cross the footbridge, but turn left and follow the riverside path, downstream, going under the huge railway bridge along the way.

14

Reaching the road, turn left beside the bridge and follow the way marked path up to Miller’s Dale station. There is a good view of the twin viaducts from this point.

To Tideswell

To Buxton

The twin viaducts

© Mapbox, © OpenStreetMap

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Diary of Local Events Royal Centre Nottingham & Concert Hall 0115 989 5555 www.trch.co.uk MAR 1 Anton & Erin: Dance Those Magical Movies 2 Impromptu Shakespeare 2 Elvis Costello & The Imposters 3-7 The Taming Of the Shrew 3 Funk: A Music Revolution 4 Sir Henry Irving & The Bells 4 Rhod Gilbert: The Book of John 6 Behind The Scenes with the RSC’s Collections Department 6 Susan Boyle 7 The HandleBards Professional Development Workshop 7 Jimmy Carr: Terribly Funny 8 Sunday Piano Series: Tom Poster 8 Diva: The Limelight Orchestra 9 An Evening with Whitney: The Whitney Houston Hologram Tour 10-14 Some Mothers Do ‘Ave ‘Em 10 Clannad 11 Royal Philharmonic Orchestra 12 Paul Carrack 13 The Boys Are Back!

14 The Hallé Film Music Concert: The Magical Music of Harry Potter 15 Ben Fogle 16 The Course of True Love: An Introduction to Art Song 16-18 Riverdance: The New 25th Anniversary Show 17&20 Opera North: Street Scene 18&21 Opera North: The Marriage of Figaro 19 Opera North: The Turn of the Screw 20 Opera North at Lunchtime 21 Nottingham Harmonic Choir present Musical Seascapes 22 Nottingham Youth Orchestra: Training and Intermediate Orchestras Afternoon Concert 22 Nottingham Youth Orchestra: Senior Orchestra Evening Concert 23 Dave Chawner: Mental 24 to April 4 MAMMA MIA! 24-29 SIX The Musical 30 to April 2 A Murder is Announced APRIL To April 2 A Murder is Announced To April 4 MAMMA MIA! 4-5 Peppa Pig’s Best Day Ever 4 J.S. Bach’s Goldberg Variations Reimagined 6-11 Once the Musical Nottingham Playhouse 0115 941 9419 www.nottinghamplayhouse.co.uk MAR David Baddiel - Trolls: Not the Dolls 5 Man on the Moon 7 Playing Shakespeare 7 Cyanotype Print Making 8 Iain Stirling Failing Upwards 13 London Film Freddie Mercury & Queen in Concert 14 The Story of Guitar Heroes

15 John Shuttleworth’s Back 17 Private Peaceful - Members’ Curtain Raiser 17 Siobhan Phillips 19-21 Poet in Da Corner 27 to April 11 Private Peaceful APRIL 4 Fun with Prosthetic Make Up 6 Singing, Songs and Silliness 6 Drums, Drums, Drums!

2-9 Project X 7 The Teeny Tiny Orchestra 7 Shenanigans on the Farm - Multi-Sensory Workshop 7-9 The Merchant of Venice 8 Play in a Day: Twelfth Night 9 The Famous Baby and Toddler Disco!

Buxton Opera House & PavilionArts Centre.

01298 72190 www.buxtonoperahouse.org MAR 1 Ronnie Scott’s All Stars 2-3 The Strange Case of Jekyll & Hyde 4 Monthly Make Workshop: Royal Northern College of Music 6 Buxton Buzz Comedy Club - March 7 Ardal O’Hanlon 8 Milton Jones in Milton: Impossible 10 Martin Boysen & Ed Douglas 12-14 The Black Veil 16 Making Space 18 Transitions Dance Company 19 Rumours of Fleetwood Mac 20 Purple Zeppelin The Ultimate Rock Tribute Show!

20 Andy Parsons 21 The Carpenters Story Goodbye To Love 22 Mad for Musicals 26 English Touring Opera 27-28 English Touring Opera Così fan tutte 29 Peak District Music Grand Gala Concert APRIL 2 Harpy, s​ tarring Su Pollard 2 Jack Dee 3 Nexus Duo Coffee Concert 3 The Take That Experience 4 The Bootleg Beatles 5 Russian State Opera Aida 7 Northern Ballet Little Red Riding Hood 10 That’ll Be The Day Derby Live. Box Office 01332 255800 www. derbylive.co.uk MAR 5-6 Celebration of Dance ‘Around the World’ 14 DCO 70th Anniversary Concert 18 Whitney - Queen of the Night 25 A Little Night Music April 3 ‘The Sitcom Experience’ – Fawlty Towers Dinner Show Don’t miss out - Britain’s longest running and No.1 parody tribute act are returning to ‘Makeney Hall Hotel ’ for its sixth consecutive year and this is another chance to experience terrible service and mishaps from the most famous hotel owner, Basil Fawlty, his wife, Sybil and Manuel, the hapless Spanish waiter.

66 | www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk

diary@imagespublishing.co.uk

An hilarious evening of non-stop fun and comedy all the way, with people laughing so much they end up in tears’ (Yorkshire Post).

Set during a ‘live action dinner show’, where anything can happen, the ‘Sitcom Experience’ theatre audience are transported to the notorious ‘Fawlty Towers’ restaurant with your host for the night, the most famous hotelier in the land ‘Basil Fawlty’. In addition to enjoying a delicious 3-course meal the audience are guaranteed plenty of laughter, manic chaos, heaps of comedy, in a jaw-achingly hilarious live interactive dinner show.

Laughlines, touring since 1997 are known for their highly original and hilarious high energy comedy shows and this show features professional comedy actor ‘Michael Wilson Green’ as ‘Basil Fawlty’, well known for his highly physical and slapstick inspired humour so don’t delay, book your table today!

Derby Theatre Box Office 01332 59 39 39 www.derbytheatre.co.uk MAR 7 Macbeth Theatre Day: Blood and Battles A must for any Shakespearean tragedy fan!

17-21 Crongton Knights “I don’t know why I listened to you about going on this mission! Now we’re in the middle of nowhere dot com, buses ain’t rolling, and they’re gonna beat us down, shank us, and then fling us in some big bin!”

Life isn’t easy on the Crongton Estate and for McKay and his mates it’s all about keeping their heads down but when a friend finds herself in trouble, they set out on a mission that goes further than any of them imagined.

Crongton Knights will take you on a night of madcap adventure as McKay and his friends ‘The Magnificent Six’ encounter the dangers and triumphs of a mission gone awry.

Crongton Knights is about the friends you’ll never forget and how lessons learned the hard way can bring you closer together.

Mansfield Palace Theatre www.mansfield.gov.uk/palacetheatre MAR 4-8 Singing in the Rain 11 Revenge 13 The Temple BrothersRock/Pop 14 Darkside Floyd Show Ltd Rock/Pop 15 Ballet Theatre UK Ballet 17-18 Footloose 19 A Tribute to Amy 20 Luther UK - Luther Vandross Celebration 21 The Ultimate 70s Show 22 The Sound of Springsteen 26-27 Chicago 31 The Upbeat Beatles APRIL 19 The Wizard of Oz - Panto 22 - 25 Heanor Musical theatre minutes 26 Hermans Hermits 55th Anniversary Tour

EXPLORE acres of award winning gardens

Luxury coach travel with guaranteed seats & local boarding points

TOUR the historic home of the Sitwell family ENJOY a seasonal menu served at the Café at Renishaw Hall TASTE the award winning wines on our vineyard tours SHOP for gifts and plants from the visitor centre and plant sales LEARN new techniques on cutting garden workshops

Garden photos

by William Collinson

Main season open Wednesday to Sunday & BH Monday until end Sept Hall tours on Fridays, advance booking recommended

visit www.renishaw-hall.co.uk or call 01246 432310

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EUROPEAN COACHING HOLLAND TRAMS, BOATS & BULBFIELDS . . . . . . . . .10-14 Apr (HB) £504 IRELAND SLIGO & DONEGAL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 07-13 Jun (HB) £655 IRELAND KILLARNEY & THE RING OF KERRY . . . . . 14-20 Sept (HB) £702 FRANCE AUVERGNE LAND OF VOLCANOES . . . . . . 23-30 Sept (HB) £761 FRANCE ARRAS CHRISTMAS MARKET . . . . . . . . . . . . 06-09 Dec (BB) £307

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Diary of Local Events Birdwatching for Beginners walks at Carsington Water.

Birding for beginners walks. Over the winter months the wild fowl are in their finest breeding plumage. Visiting thrushes, redwings and fieldfares feast on berries and a great northern diver takes shelter in the reservoir. Why not join us on one of our FREE beginners walks held on the first Sunday of every month? Booking is advisable as numbers are limited, contact Carsington 0330 678 0701. Future dates, Mar 1st and April 21st Spondon Historical Society March 9th at 7.30pm in Spondon Village Hall, Sitwell Street Spondon. The speaker is Ian Morgan who will talk about ‘The Curious World of Olde Time Punishments.

We shall hear about ‘Birching to branding, beheading to burning, ducking stools, witches, the pillory and perjurers and how do you punish the dead!’ Come along and find out, it promises to be an interesting evening. Members £2.50, Visitors £4.00 Darley Abbey Historical Group Friday 20 March ‘The Many behind the Few’, by David Skillen Meetings start at 7pm at Darley Abbey Village Hall, Abbey Yard off New Road, Darley Abbey, DE22 1DS There is a charge of £1.50. Contact Maria Gibson on 01332 552837 or visit their blog: https:// darleyabbeyhistoricalgroup.wordpress.com/ Allestree Flower Group Tuesday 17th March 2020 Flower Demonstration by Beverley Artis Entitled: “Name thatTune” 7.00 pm for 7.30 pm. Venue: The Evergreen Hall, Cornhill, Allestree. Admission: Members £3.00. Non- members £7.00. For further details telephone 01332 558540 Derby Book Festival

May 29 to June 6. Derby Book Festival celebrates the joy of books and reading for all ages and interests. All are Welcome by Alexandra Penfold and Suzanne Kaufman (Bloomsbury) Brian the Brave by Paul Stewart and Jane Porter (Otter-Barry) www.derbybookfestival.co.uk

Derby & District National Trust Members’ Group.

17th March 7pm for our AGM, followed by “Iceland in Winter” presented by Colin Hobday who takes on a trip around Iceland taking in the spectacular and rugged landscape of winter. Landau Forte College, Fox Street, Derby. For more info contact the Membership Secretary on 01332 703512 or email derby.members@

nationaltrust.org.uk. Group Members £2.50 / visitors £5.00. Non members very welcome.

Derby RSPB Local Group March 11th at 7.30pm, we welcome Neil Glenn with a talk on “A year in the life of a bird tour guide”. Meet in the Grange Banqueting Suite, 457 Burton Road, Littleover, Derby, DE23 6XX. Admission for members is £2.50, for non-members £3.00 and juniors £1.00. More details on www.rspb.org.uk/groups/derby Also March 29th Birdwatching Walk At RSPB Sherwood Forest, Nottinghamshire. Meet in the car park.Free for RSPB members £4 for non members at 9.30am. Toilets and cafe on site. Optional visit to Budby South Forest after lunch. More details on www.rspb.org.uk/groups/derby.

Derby Chamber Music Society

6th March at 7.30pm at the Multi-Faith Centre, University of Derby, Kedleston Road, Derby, DE22 1GB A concert by Alexandra Vaduva (piano) Scarlatti: Sonatas K380 in E and K9 in D minor Janáček: On an Overgrown Path - Book 1 Bartok: Suite Op.14 Enescu: Choral and Carillon nocturne from Suite Op.18 Beethoven: Sonata in C sharp minor, Op.27 No.2 “Moonlight” and also Friday 3rd April at 7.30pm.

A concert by the Albany Piano Trio Beethoven: Piano Trio in D, Op.70 No.1 “Ghost” Judith Bingham: The Orchid and its Hunters (commission) Bloch: Three Nocturnes Ravel: Piano Trio in A minor Tickets £15 and £14 (concessions) available at the door and online through WeGotTickets at www.derbychambermusic.org telephone 01332 830585.

Folk & acoustic Music

Thurs 5 March 8pm “Live at the Lion” Lion Hotel, Bridge Street, Belper DE56 1AX Narthen in Concert. Presenting the new lineup to the Folk World. Gifted instrumentalists on keyboard, fiddle, accordion, sax and whistles mixed with superb harmonies. Tickets £14.15 from Ticket Hotline 01773 853428 Bob Fox & Billy Mitchell Fri 20 March 8pm Chesterfield Library Theatre, New Beetwell Street, Chesterfield S40 1QN. Bob Fox & Billy Mitchell - Canny Lads in Concert Bob Fox the ubiquitous “War Horse” Song Man joins ex-Lindisfarne front man, Billy Mitchell, for a nostalgic evening of songs from the north-east, plus crowd pleasing gems from their extensive

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repertoires. A rare chance to see these stalwarts of the National Folk Scene play together. Tickets £17.50, concessions £16.50 from Ticket Hotline 01773 853428

Arts Society Derby

April 7th A talk on ‘The Gate of Heroes: On the China trail’. Time 7.15 pm at Landau Forte College, Fox St, Derby DE1 2LF. New members of the society are warmly welcomed; for details see https://theartssocietyderby. com/membership/ or phone 07815 963978.

Non-members may attend as guests for £6 per person.

Desert Island Flicks Sunday 8th March 2020 7.30 PM West Hallam Village Hall. Desert Island Flicks A Live and Local show. Spiltmilk Dance are rolling out the red carpet and inviting the audience to a night at the movies like no other. With over 120 hours of famous film moments covered in just 90 minutes, a cast of two take on all the lead roles, stunts, and special effects! Tickets £11.00 Box Office: 0115 930 3340

Music at Duffield presents Saturday 28 March 2020 at 7.30pm St. Alkmund’s Church, Church Drive (off Makeney Road), Duffield DE56 4BA Programme: To include: Johann Strauss Wiener Blut Kreisler Liebeslied Brahms Hungarian Dance No.5 Monti Czardas Piazzolla Histoire Du Tango Sophie Rosa and Miloš Milivojević join forces for this unmissable evening of music for accordion and violin duo: an exploration of Viennese Waltz, Argentine Tango, folk dances, virtuoso pyrotechnics and much more! As prizewinners of major competitions, Sophie Rosa and Miloš Milivojević are high in demand. Ticket prices: Adult £15, Concession £14, Student £7 Individual tickets are available at the door or from Caroline Morgan (Tel: 07977 091171) and also online at www.musicatduffield.com For further details about Music at Duffield and future concerts please visit our website www.musicatduffield.com The Derbyshire Singers Highfields School Matlock (DE4 5NA) Saturday 21st March 7.30pm The Derbyshire Singers, with The Derbyshire Sinfonia and Lizzie Ball (violin).

Brahms: A German Requiem (Rebecca Lea: soprano; Andrew Ashwin: Baritone) Bruch: Violin Concerto No 1 in G Minor (Lizzie Ball: violin) Brahms: Academic Festival Overture

Our Rita’s Live present

Siobhan Phillips : Live & Unhinged March 17th

Nottingham Playhouse

Last year Siobhan wowed audiences as the only female finalist in Britain’s Got Talent 2019. This year she is going on tour and audiences will be able to hear not only those observational daft ditties. Described as “The love child of Peter Kay and Victoria Wood, Siobhan started touring aged sixteen treating the working men’s club circuit to songs from pop to opera Then an appearance in 2003 on Channel 4’s “Operatunity” with a sparkling rendition of Nessun Dorma led to bookings on cruise ships which saw her tour the world. Now Siobhan is married with a

three-year-old, the source of inspiration for those ditties about tantrum throwing toddlers and the frustrations of mother daughter relationships. Somehow, an operatic aria which translates as “None shall sleep” does seem strangely appropriate! Now it’s your opportunity to witness the inimitable charm that is Siobhan and afterwards feel like you’ve made a new life-long friend as well as had an enjoyable evening into the bargain and forgotten the woes and angst of 21st century life. Tickets available via www.siobhanphillips.co.uk

Andy Parsons: Healing The Nation 20th March, 8:00pm

Pavillion Arts Centre, Buxton.

“ It was June 2016 and I was contemplating a meal deal. I only wanted a sandwich but given that I could get a snack and a drink for only 5p more it seemed financially irresponsible not to. I had spent so long pondering the EU Referendum result that I was in a massive rush. The lad on the till scanned the first two items, but the third item wouldn’t scan. He tried one more time, when it wouldn’t scan; he went ‘bip’ and chucked it through. It was then I thought ‘we’ll be alright as a country we will’. And we will be alright. Trust me. I’m not a politician” Andy Parsons.

Peter Andre Returns to the UK Tour of Grease 6 to 11 July

Theatre Royal Nottingham

Following his success starring in the UK and Ireland tour in 2019, Peter Andre will star at certain venues in the 2020 UK tour of the first new production in 25 years of Jim Jacobs & Warren Casey’s iconic musical Grease, including the Theatre Royal Nottingham.

As well as reprising the role of Teen Angel, Andre will also play Vince Fontaine and the Sergeant, joining the previously announced Dan Partridge as Danny Zuko.

Further casting to be announced including who will be playing the role of Teen Angel, Vince Fontaine and the Sergeant when Peter Andre is not performing.

GREASE will visit the Theatre Royal Nottingham from 6 to 11 July. Peter Andre will play the role of Teen Angel, Vince Fontaine and Sergeant at all performances in Nottingham, excluding Monday 6 July 7.30pm.

Marlowes to light up Patrick Hamilton thriller The Marlowe Players are turning to playwright Patrick Hamilton for the third time in just over seven years, preparing to present probably his most famous work Gaslight.

Gaslight which spawned the term “gaslighting” is a psychological thriller.

It was described in the magazine Theatre World shortly after it was first produced in 1938 as “a study in sustained terror”.

Suzi Illston who directed The Governess for the Players is directing Gaslight. She chose it because “I like the story and its gothic style.

A cast of five will include a couple of newcomers to the group as well as experienced actors. Sophie Smith has worked backstage on previous Marlowe shows while Michelle Jeffery joined the group a few months ago.

Michelle plays Bella Manningham, a woman who thinks she is going mad when she sees the lights dim and hears footsteps upstairs even though there is no one else in her house.

David Hawley takes the role of Rough, the retired detective who tries to make sense of the strange goings-on.

Suzi’s husband Martin Illston plays

www.tramway.co.uk

Jack Manningham.

Gaslight will be performed at Darley Abbey Village Hall from Tuesday until Saturday, March 24-28. Tickets which cost £8 are available from 07961 607372 or www.marlowe-players.co.uk.

Open for the NEW SEASON from Saturday 14th March 2020

We have a range of events for you to enjoy throughout the year. Each event incorporates the Village scene, and trams from the appropriate era or city of origin are run throughout the day.

EVENT: Sat 15th & Sun 16th July • VintageEDWARDIAN Trams Running Daily • 2020 Events Programme WWII HOME EVENT: 12th• &Exhibitions Sun 13th August • CaféFRONT and Red LionSatPub TRAMWalk AND RAILWAY EVENT: & Sun 20th •MODEL Woodland & Sculpture TrailSat• 19th Children’s PlayAugust Areas CLASSIC TRANSPORT GATHERING: Sun 27th & Mon 28th areas) August Dogs on a lead welcome (except café and play

HORSEcheck TRAM DAYS: Mon 31st July, 22nd & times Thurs 31st August Please our website forTues opening and prices

SITUATED NEAR MATLOCK AND ONLY 8 MILES FROM M1 JUNCTION 28

Crich Crich, Matlock, Matlock,Derbyshire DE45DP 5DP Crich Tramway Tramway Village, Crich, Derbyshire DE4 Tel: 01773 854854321 321 Email: enquiry@tramway.co.uk Tel: : 01773 Web: www.tramway.co.uk www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk | 69

Aaminah Snowdon was born in Northallerton, North Yorkshire. Her artwork revolves exclusively around British Wildlife, farm animals and pets using lively and spontaneous brush strokes with bold vibrant colours, each painting comes with its own witty and fun title. ‘The Garden Committee’ is a fine quality, limited edition (295) copyrighted reproduction of the original painting, and is hand signed, titled and numbered by the artist. Available from Out Framed, Market Place, Ripley DE5 3FJ.

From private tuition to friendly classes and full day workshops, artist Norma Gent has something to make your creativity flourish. Also available from her studio at New Lane Galleries, Alfreton is a selection of artworks, all originals, for sale. You can call or contact Norma on 01773 836907.

Steven McLoughlin is the front cover artist for March.

DAY 12th AUGUST

20 2

0

Quality framing service including: Sports Shirts and Military Medals Photographs, Posters and Prints Canvas and Needlework stretching Stockists of original art and prints from local and national artists.

Art Materials and Gifts

email outframed@sky.com 70 | www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk

Images Gallery

ES DN E W

Steven began painting professionally, initially working commercially for publishers and clients. A self-taught artist Steven works primarily in oils, developing the paintings on location, and finishing the pieces back at his studio. The British coastline and countryside have been Steven’s inspiration for many years taking him from the east coast of Norfolk, to Derbyshire, where he lives, and down to Cornwall.

From the 15th March Steven will exhibit at the Inglby Gallery.

Prints of a recent painting of the old baseball ground, signed by Kevin Hector will also be available from Steven.

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You’ll find us on the main A57 road at Glossop – gateway to the scenic landscapes, stunning views and wide open spaces of one of Britain’s finest holiday destinations, the Peak District and Derbyshire. Call in soon, call us on 01457 868011 – or visit our website at www.glossopcaravans.co.uk – to claim your key to an even better quality of life.

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Experience the wonders of Northern Norway or Iceland with a range of unforgettable activities and experiences amidst the pristine snowy landscapes.

BOOKING VERY FAST BE QUICK!

Summer: explore delightful scenic resorts in the Lakes & Mountains regions of Switzerland, Austria, Italy and Slovenia.

Fresh mountain air and lots of scenic sites to visit. Beautiful walks and hikes to suit all levels of fitness.

Inghams have a close working relationship with over 400 accommodations, each offering a quality stay and great value prices. There are multi centre options too for clients seeking to include two or more different resorts. For instance you may consider Lake Garda combined with Venice or La Villa in Italy combined with Lech in Austria. Slovenia brims with natural beauty and the Julian Alps provide diverse landscapes and scenery. A three centre option allows you to maximise on the flora, fauna and nature of this wonderful destination.

We offer a huge variety of classic escorted tours and for those seeking greater independence a wide range of self guided tours. Switzerland has a magnificent railway system that allows you to explore in a most leisurely way. First class rail travel offers good value for money. Wine and food tasting tours feature many gastronomic delights of our featured locations.

Iceland is a popular year round destination with regular direct flights and unique natural sights. Its geothermal features, numerous waterfalls together with volcanoes and glaciers provide a diverse and unique landscape. Iceland is aptly named the Land of Fire and Ice.

Inghams’ knowledge and love of the world of breaks comes from over 80 years of exploring the most beautiful resorts, building long-lasting friendships with hoteliers, and working out exactly what makes your holiday so special.

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In autumn through winter it is possible to view the Aurora Borealis The Northern Lights. Cold clear dark nights are required generally between October and March.

Norway is a country of great natural beauty with its towering mountains and magnificent fjords. Out of Norway’s 7 UNESCO World Heritage sites 3 are fjord located. Superb hotels in single centre destinations include Bergen, Ulvik, Balestrand, Leon, Alesund and Stavanger. Self guided tours include Glaciers & The Coast, Coastal Cities, Fjord Explorer and A Taste of Norway.

Reindeer safaris, husky dog rides and snowmobiles are all activities on offer in the winter. Inghams chosen location is also a ski resort offering the opportunity for downhill and cross country skiing.

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In winter Norway has a number of winter activities including snow shoe walking, dog sledding and amazing Northern Lights viewing. Ingham’s offer a range of Scandinavian Lapland holidays both for short breaks and longer options.

Lapland in the depths of winter is a magical experience, a scenic wonderland deep inside the Arctic Circle and generally blanketed in snow from December to April. December to March provide long hours of darkness and excellent opportunities to see the Northern Lights (clear nights essential). We offer 3 and 4 night Santa Stays and a 7 night option. In this part of the world reindeer outnumber people. You may see reindeer on the coast in summer but in the colder winter months reindeer head inland for shelter and food.

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A Sparkling

Breakfast

at Darley’s Restaurant and Terrace

P

sychiatrists tell us that the most stressful time of the day is breakfast time. Work, school and the first appointment of the morning all combine to make the early part of the day, hectic. And a hurried bowl of indigestible muesli does not help improve the early morning mood.

What’s needed every so often, in the words of Lionel Richie, is something… easy like Sunday morning!

Darley’s Restaurant and Terrace, situated in part of the old mill in Darley Abbey, has recently launched their English sparkling breakfast menu and Susan and myself had been invited for a stress free and easy start to the day.

The restaurant is in a beautiful location at the side of the river Derwent in the old Darley Abbey Mill. After a warm and friendly welcome Stacey, one of the restaurant staff, showed us to a table with a view of the river. The February storms had created a fast flowing Derwent, made more spectacular as it crashed over the nearby weir. A stunning backdrop to our breakfast.

The sparkling part of Darley’s English breakfast is in the choice of accompanying drinks. There is an English ‘champagne style’ sparkling wine from Halfpenny Green or a non-alcoholic Royal Flush Kombucha. We shared a bottle of the chilled Kombucha as we read through the new Darley’s breakfast menu. The refreshing, sparkling beverage is made from first flush Darjeeling tea. Royal Flush Kombucha has a fruity floral taste with a hint of rhubarb. Served chilled; this is an alternative to

sparkling white wine and very low in sugar.

Our choices made and Susan started with the devilled lambs kidneys. These were served in a crème fraîche sauce flavoured with English mustard, tomato purée and Worcestershire sauce on a slice of toasted brioche. The not too spicy sauce complimented the tender kidneys that melted in the mouth.

For my first course I decided to try something completely different: the French toast with banana, hazelnut and chocolate. This exciting combination arrived in the form of a sandwich along with fresh berries. The eggy bread outer part of the sandwich provided the contrast to the dark chocolate and hazelnut filling which was rich and deep in flavour and sweetened by the accompanying thinly sliced banana. An amazing combination of textures and flavours that worked extremely well together.

The next course on the sparkling breakfast menu has eight dishes to choose from; including kedgeree, eggs Benedict and the Darley’s full English breakfast. I chose the omelette Arnold Bennett; named after the famous writer and critic and perfected for him at the Savoy Hotel in the 1920s. This was a light, fluffy omelette with a hint of Parmesan and stuffed with large chunks of smoked haddock. The omelette isn’t folded but is finished under the grill and presented on the plate just how it left the pan.

It was dressed with a drizzle of warm, lemony hollandaise and a small stack of rock samphire. The hollandaise was a perfect dressing for the smoked fish and the vibrant green samphire a refreshing contrast to the beautifully cooked egg.

Eggs were also Susans choice for this part of our breakfast. She chose the smoked salmon and scrambled eggs. The eggs were flavoured with chives. The mild hint of onion from this little underused herb enhanced

the delicate smoky flavour of the fish. It was served on two small potato rosti; crispy at the edges and soft in the middle.

There is a desert selection to the breakfast menu. I chose the dropped scones; light and fluffy saucer sized pancakes accompanied by tangy raspberries, a dash of tart crème fraîche and a drizzle of maple syrup. The syrup’s butterscotch flavour united all the elements of the final dish.

Susan chose the red berry sorbet accompanied by crushed pistachio and chocolate nibs. It looked like a work of art on the plate and tasted divine. The chilled sorbet was a refreshing finale to a spectacular breakfast experience.

We ambled through breakfast and finished with a first class coffee each. While we ate we had been entertained by watching the work of a film crew from Carbon Free Dining making a promotional

video for Darley’s. Carbon Free Dining is the zero-cost restaurant sustainability initiative managed

by The United Nations Environment partner, Green Earth Appeal.

Darley’s, along with many other notable restaurants have signed up to the scheme. As a ’thank you’ for allowing them to interrupt our meal, they treated us to a glass each of Halfpenny Green brut sparkling English wine from the breakfast menu. Halfpenny Green vineyards are in Staffordshire, to the west of Dudley. The wine is produced using the traditional Champagne method. Despite this being a dry wine it’s packed with sweet flavours: honey, vanilla and green apple. This was a leisurely way to end a deliciously long breakfast.

Darley’s Restaurant & Terrace Waterfront, Darley Abbey Mill, Derby. DE22 1DZ Telephone 01332 364987 for bookings www.darleys.com email:info@darleys.com

CountryImagesMagazine.co.uk | 75

taste derbyshire

Bottle shops,tap rooms & micro-pubs

It

was 2005 when Thornbridge Brewery, in Derbyshire, started producing one of the UK’s first craft ales. There are now 70 micro-breweries in the county and there’s been a huge rise in the number of outlets – bottle shops, tap rooms and micro-pubs – on a mission to bring these bespoke beers to the public.

the shop gives the illusion of being a little beer shop so the first thing they say is ‘wow’ followed by ‘oh my word’,” explains Jo (51), originally from Barnsley.

“Then they notice we also have a bar area and ten cask beers on tap and they get a bit flummoxed by it all.”

Taste Derbyshire’s Amanda Volley visited award-winning micro-pub and bottle shop Maison Du Biere in Ashbourne to find out why there is such a thirst for artisan ales.

The Ashbourne-based bottle shop and bar may contain a mind-boggling amount of beers (and gins) but the couple are confident they can match everyone, from serious ale buffs to timorous firsttimers, with their perfect tipple.

It has been the best part of two years since Matt Warren and his partner Jo Glover opened Maison Du Biere but the couple still savour the slack-jawed reaction of customers confronted by the 400-odd varieties of beers, ales and ciders.

“We don’t give too much away as, from the front, 76 | CountryImagesMagazine.co.uk

Her partner Matt (59), laughs; “I wish we had a pound for everyone who says they’ve walked into Willy Wonka’s factory.” “It’s either that or a sweet shop for adults.”

“We spend a lot of time talking to people about the beers and how and where they’re made,” says Matt who hails from Bristol. “Some people need a lot of help, others know more about beer than we do. It’s a relaxed place where everyone’s welcome and I think people love us for it.”

There is a lot of love flowing in the direction of this

“I wish we had a pound for everyone who says they’ve walked into Willy Wonka’s factory.

It’s either that or a sweet shop for adults.” cracking shop-cum-bar. In the first year, they were named ‘Pub of the Season’ 2018 by the Ashbourne & District sub branch of CAMRA with the couple praised for their ‘friendliness and enthusiasm’.

In January, Maison Du Biere was runner-up in CAMRA’s Ashbourne’s Pub of the Year 2020, pipped only by the Barley Mow at Kirk Ireton; one of the area’s oldest pubs.

“We’ve had an amazing reception. The minute we opened our doors in July 2018, it was just ‘kaboom’.

The shop was packed and we smashed our weekly sales target on the first night,” says Matt. “People like the fact that we’re an independent retailer and that we stock beer from around 40 local breweries.

Our customers enjoy taking a bit of the Peak District home.”

Incredibly, considering all the praise flowing their way from industry experts, the couple had no experience of the speciality beer market before throwing themselves into Maison Du Biere. Matt and Jo both worked in sales for a national bookseller.

“I knew a little about the hospitality industry as I’d

had part-time jobs in pubs since my son Luke (now 26) was born,” explains Jo. “My brother, Nigel Mount, opened the original Maison Du Biere in Barnsley and he invited us to spend a day there. We loved it and, with his blessing, we decided to open our own branch.”

Matt admits he also owes Nigel a debt of gratitude; “He took me along to a bar specialising in Belgian beer. I bought a round of four beers which came to £35 even though they were all just one third of a pint and mainly froth,” he laughs. “When the beer touched my lips – I got it. That beer blew everything else out of the water. It was beautiful and delicate.

I’m now an evangelist on a mission to convert others to great beer.”

Deciding they wanted sell beer was one thing, finding the location was another. The couple were living in Cheshire (they’ve since relocated to Clifton, near Ashbourne) but decided the area was too well-served with independent beer shops.

“We knew Ashbourne pretty well from coming to walk here but we decided to drive down and have a proper look,” says Matt “I think we knew instantly CountryImagesMagazine.co.uk | 77

it was the right spot as it had a lovely vibe. When this shop came up, Jo went on her own to have a look.

She walked in and rang me to say ‘This is it.’ It had been an antique shop housed in a gorgeous 18th century mansion built for Lord Beresford. We didn’t have to do anything other than putting in fridges, shelving and second-hand finds like old trunks and church pews – our approach to furnishings has always been ‘no expense spent’.”

Matt says local support has been overwhelming; “I like to think we’re helping to put Ashbourne on the map because it’s a beautiful town with amazing people,” “We lived in Cheshire for 16 years and could probably count the number of close friends on one hand. Now I could name at least 20 who I could call on for favours – day or night – and they’re more like family than friends. The same goes for our suppliers.

The craft industry as a whole is very tight-knit. A lot of the beer producers are now our besties or ‘crafties’.”

With this, Matt bounds over to the shelves to ‘introduce’ some of the beers.

“On the one shelf we have world beers with most coming from the great beer producing nations like Belgium, Germany and Czechoslovakia. They are brewed to traditional recipes which haven’t changed in hundreds of years,” he says. “On the adjoining wall, we have craft beers. Typically made by young brewers who are trying to stamp their identity on a beer. This is where you’ll find people really innovating with flavour. For instance, there’s one tasting of marshmallow while another features chocolate, cinnamon, vanilla and chilli. One of our latest additions tastes of caramel brownie and peanut butter, it really is dessert in a can.”

But Matt stresses craft beer is more serious than the colourful cans, novelty flavours and comic names 78 | CountryImagesMagazine.co.uk

(Fanny’s Passion anyone?) suggests.

“These brewers are fanatical about what they do and they put in a lot of time, energy and expensive ingredients into every beer - like hops imported from America, Europe and New Zealand – so the taste is phenomenal,” Matt explains. “For instance, we stock beer by Garage Beer Co. of Barcelona which is the beer equivalent of a Chateauneuf-du-Pape wine.

We only put something on the shelves if we like it – we get asked for a lot of recommendations and would hate people to be disappointed.”

There’s little chance of that as Matt and Jo are always striving to ring the changes. Every week, they have new beers on the shelves – and they rotate the beers available on tap – which means a lot of elbow grease for Matt as he writes all the chalk boards by hand.

“There has never been a better time to drink beer,” Matt says. “We are still learning and we’ve got a long way to go before we’d call ourselves beer geeks.

One chap was telling me he’s tried 6,500 beers and never had the same one twice. These people can tell you everything about the beer and the people who brewed it.”

With all this fine beer on the shelves, it is tempting to wonder if the couple take their ‘work’ home.

“No, we’re hardly ever at home and we don’t drink a lot. I can’t recall the last time either of us had too much to drink,” Matt laughs. “I’m told that, because the beers are made from natural ingredients and free of chemicals, you don’t get hangovers. You might wake up with a sore head but a nice cup of tea will sort you out. If we do have a drink we go for quality not quantity – life’s too short to drink rubbish beer.”

Maison Du Biere, 28b Church Street, Ashbourne DE6 1AE www.maisondubiere.com

Micro pubs in and around Derby There are around 70 micro-breweries* in the Derbyshire area according to RateBeer.com so it’s no surprise to find a massive explosion in the micropub scene. These quaint and quirky drinking dens are opening in towns, villages and streets across the county.

Here’s Taste Derbyshire’s guide to a selection of micro-pubs in and around Derby.

The Last Post, 1 Uttoxeter Old Rd, Derby DE1 1GA Seating capacity: 25 seats, 40 standing Former use of building: A post office.

Look out for: Musicians –it’s a hub for live music from Thursday to Sunday and prepare to celebrate the pub’s 5th birthday in May. Little Chester Ale House, 4A Chester Green Rd, Little Chester, Derby DE1 3SF Seating capacity: 40 Former use of building: Dry cleaners and ironing service.

Look out for: Cheese – Derby’s first micro-pubs treats its customers to free cheese and biscuits every Monday from 8pm The PotHole, Unit 17, Park Farm Centre, Park Farm Dr, Derby DE22 2QQ Seating capacity: 35 in winter; 47 from MaySeptember when they have outside seating.

Former use of building: Dry cleaners.

Look out for: The opportunity to watch a big sporting fixture on the TV with a blonde (ale) from nearby Littleover.

No. 189, 189 Blenheim Dr, Derby DE22 2GN Seating capacity: 50 seated, 80 standing Former use of building: A beauty salon.

Look out for: The live pint-o-meter; last year they topped 30,000.

Self-confessed ‘foodie’ journalist Amanda Volley showcases all that is great about food and drink in Derbyshire.

The Creaky Floorboard, 179 Kedleston Rd, Derby DE22 1FT Seating capacity: 40 Former use of building: Home. The pub is converted from two rooms in the owner’s house.

Look out for: The person who stuck googly-eyes on a poster of William Shakespeare.

Suds and Soda, Friary Works, 119 Friar Gate, Derby DE1 1EX Seating capacity: 32 seats, 50 standing Former use of building: Empty for years but has previously been a sandwich shop, a cafe and a barbershop.

Look out for: Classic gaming machines – small wonder one woman was forced to ask ‘Can I have my boyfriend back please’.

The Town Street Tap, 17 Town Street, Duffield DE56 4EH Seating capacity: 60 with standing Former use of building: The pub has been an up-market interiors/gift shop, florist and, latterly, a café.

Look out for: Hook-ups with street food vendors like Biddulph’s Pizzeria (March 18) and beers from their own brewery, Tollgate, based at Calke Abbey. *The figures include pubs which brew their own beer on-site The Hole in the Wall, 34 Uttoxeter Road, Mickleover, Derby DE3 0ZQ It’s the old NatWest bank in the heart of Mickleover, so its former use was a bank.

Look out for: The opening night will be 12th March 2020 Once opened we will be serving an extensive range of Derby Brewing Co. ales and craft beers alongside locally sourced draught beers, wines and spirits and delicious homemade bar snacks every day of the week.

ASHBOURNES ONE STOP SHOP FOR LOCAL, WORLD, CRAFT BEERS, CIDERS & GINS

A beer drinkers paradise, selling over 300 different beers from all over the world plus beers from the top Uk craft and trad brewers, new beers arriving daily. Gift packs & a range of gluten free beers also available. Stockists of small batch craft gin.

14 draught taps serving lager, craft, speciality beers and ciders plus all bottled beers available to drink on site Open Tuesday & Wednesday 4pm - 9pm, Thursday to Saturday 12pm - 9pm & Sunday 12pm - 7pm

28b CHURCH STREET, ASHBOURNE www.maisondubiere.com CountryImagesMagazine.co.uk | 79

Belper care home crowned ‘Outstanding’

by CQC

A

care home in Belper has been rated ‘Outstanding’ by recent Care Quality Commission (CQC) report. The home, Spencer Grove, is the second care home in the Milford Care group to receive this esteemed accolade.

Located at Springwood Gardens, Spencer Grove is the only care home for older people in the Belper area to be crowned ‘Outstanding’, and one out of three in the Derbyshire area, two of which are a part of the Milford Care group. The group have six homes across Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire and are well-known for their leading, family-run homes. They have received many awards over the years including Regional Winner at the Great British Care Awards.

The CQC report said, ‘People’s well-being was at the core of the service. There was an open and inclusive culture at the home, people were actively encouraged to be independent and have purpose and meaning in their lives. There was a culture of continuous improvement with a clear focus on ensuring any changes enhanced the quality of the service people received.’

The report also said, ‘People received excellent, effective care and support from a highly skilled staff team. Staff were caring and kind. People were treated with dignity and respect. Staff clearly knew people well and respected people’s individuality.’

Donna Annable, Home Manager of Spencer Grove said: “We are extremely proud to have received ‘Outstanding’ from

80 | www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk

CQC. This is the result of all the hard work and dedication that the whole team have given to the residents over the last 11 years. Spencer Grove has recently had a complete refurbishment and the home is looking incredible – to now have Outstanding is the cherry on top of the cake.”

Spencer Grove is close to the town centre of Belper, which has recently been awarded the ‘Best High Street in England’. The home boasts roof-top views of the Derbyshire countryside, spacious and communal areas including large lounges, cosy dining areas and indoor garden rooms. Coupled with the brand’s Montessori approach, Milford Care is a pioneer in the approach, taking into account each resident’s individual strengths, abilities and values.

Spencer Grove provides a full range of dedicated services including residential and nursing care, dementia care, long term and short-term respite breaks and day care. To find out more about Spencer Grove, visit www.milfordcare.co.uk/spencer-grove/ or call on 01773 599349.

www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk | 81

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Win a family ticket* to

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Museum

OLD HOUSE ADULTS & 3 CHILDREN

Find the Derbyshire/Nottinghamshire village.

Send your answer to: Crossword Comp. Country Images, Unit 5, Office Village, Keys Road, Alfreton, Derbys DE55 7FQ. Or email competitions@imagespublishing.co.uk Entries to reach us by 15th March 2020

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First correct entries drawn win the prize. T&C’s apply.

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Across: 1 Fast bird 4 Repetitive 9 Beast 10 Obsessed 12 Fact 13 wood 16 Mend 18 Mead 19 Gold 20 Faucet 22 Pen parts 24 Not you 25 Assembly 27 Snake 28 Cid! 29 Runs 31 Womb 34 Or buts 35 local area network 36 Do it again 39 Rude 40 Tree 42 Snuggle 44 Tough task 46 As 28 47 Elongated fish 48 Dent 49 Automatic

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Down: 1 1 Sparse 2 Style 3 To jorney 5 After death 6 Annoy 7 Middle 8 Not there 11 Vanessa 14 Outpost 15 Payment 17 From the side 21 Heavy stakes 23 Tinker 26 Dine 29 Injection implement 30 Place 32 Get round 33 Exit property 37 Wooden frame 38 Capable 41 Monastery dweller 43 Moose 45 Get out

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Buy the latest edition of Derbyshire’s favourite walking guide

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New Arrivals It is absolutely true that a great pair of glasses can make you look and feel fabulous. Top fashion designers are increasingly aware that eye wear is just as important as the rest of your wardrobe. For iconic brands with amazing discounted offers, visit Hurst Opticians, 5/7 High Street, Ripley.

In a beautifully soft and comfy cotton/merino wool blend, the stylist South Seas jumper features a boat neck, with contrast knit stitching on the back, neck and sleeves. With split sides at the hem - team this cosy knit with jeans for an easy look from White Stuff.

Available now from Clarkes 8-18 Grosvenor Road, Ripley.

84 | www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk

Spring 2020

Ladies Fashion Preview & Fashion Show

Thursday 19th March

Fashion Show held in the Coffee House at Ripley Store

at 2.30pm, 4.00pm & 5.30pm

Please Call 01773 742151

to reserve your seat

Footwear – Accessories Lingerie- Gifts Linens- Homewear Menswear & Coffee Shop.

Barbour Espirit Robell

Beau Moda First Avenue Vero Moda Joules

White Stuff Seasalt Weird Fish Olsen

Mistral Luca Vanucci Joe Brown

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Enjoy a

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Ladies Fashion at our Belper store includes Mistral, Esprit, Vero Moda, Joe Brown, First Avenue, Luca Vanucci, Weird Fish, Barbour & more

30-32 King Street, Belper, Telephone 01773 525358

BUY ONE GET THE SECOND COMPLETELY HALF PRICE

Sunglasses starting from £40 FREE Sight Tests for over 60s and children under 16s *Conditions apply, when you order selected frames and lenses to include single vision.

Hurst Opticians

5/7 High Street Ripley 01773 748112/744333

www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk | 85

New Arrivals The lovely Jane McDonald wears the Foil brand for her Channel 5 programme, Cruising with Jane McDonald. Foil is just one of the spring labels now arriving at Que Women, 13 Church Street, Ripley, DE5 3BU.

Find that perfect dress at Glitz and Glam, Ripley, the areas leading stockists of fabulous prom dresses. With a magical selection of styles from beautiful bejewelled tulle to slinky mermaid dresses. You will find your perfect, fairy-tale dress.

Visit Glitz and Glam, 22 Grosvenor Road, Ripley, Derbyshire DE5 3JF.

Sewing Corner is a friendly, specialist tailor.

Everything from bridal wear and evening wear to curtains. For the very best service visit 135 Dale Road, Matlock or ring 01629 760299.

BEAUTIFUL ACCESSORIES • NEW LADIES FASHIONS

SEWING CORNER Margaret Ryder

2020

Prom Dresses IN STOCK

Largest stunning collection of dresses in-store, sizes 0 to 30.

Open Mon to Sat 9 - 5, and late night Thursday by appointment only 22 Grosvenor Road, Ripley, Derbyshire DE5 3JF T: 01773 741008

86 | www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk

Sewing Corner, 135 Dale Road, Matlock, Derbyshire DE4 3LU Tel: 01629 760299 Bridal Wear • Dressmaker • Evening wear Curtains • Male and female alterations ETIQUETTE FORMAL HIRE FOR MEN Open Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday 9.30am – 5.30pm Thursday, Saturday 9.30am – 2.00pm. Closed all day Monday

QUE WOMEN

Spring & Summer Collections Now In Stock

Eat the foods you love again!

Replace your missing teeth or uncomfortable dentures with Dental Implants.

Join our dentist Matthew Lamb for a FREE no obligation Smile Audit. 0% finance available to spread the cost.

Our experienced and reassuring team welcome ne nervous patients. Call now to book! glendairdental.co.uk facebook.com/glendairdental 01773 832164 (Lines open 24/7)

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Instagram: @glendairfaces Facebook: Glendair Facial Aesthetics 01773 832164 (Lines open 24/7)

www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk | 87

New Arrivals

New Spring 2020 outerwear

by Junge available at Jillian Hart Fashions. Perfect for the unpredictable British weather!

For more information regarding the new Junge collection call into the shop at 40-44, Babington Lane, Derby or telephone 01332 347647

BEAUTY CLINIC HAIR STUDIO

& Treat your skin to our step up programme Focus On Treatments 30 Minutes.

Frown -Targets the appearance of expression & Frown Lines.

Eye - Targets the appearance of Wrinkles & Dehydration.

Other treatments in the beauty clinic: Face and body treatment • IPL for permanent hair removal, pigmentations, thread veins, scarring, skin rejuvenation.

• Body massage using Environ A, C, E body oil.

• Lipomassage perfect treatment if you want to firm, lose inches, re-sculpt, smooth.

• Other Clinics include Dermal fillers and semi-permanent makeup.

• Environ skin care.

• The scientific solution for all your skin’s needs.

Cool Peel Treatments 60 Minutes Bright Recovery - Ideal to improve the appearance of dull & sun damaged skin.

Blemish Control – ideal to improve the appearance of break-out prone skin.

8 Market Place, Belper, Derbyshire DE56 1FZ Tel: 01773 820000 www.prestigebelper.co.uk 88 | www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk

Derby’s stockist of:

Luxury Spring/Summer 2020 Collection

40-44 Babington Lane Derby Tel: 01332 347647 Opening Times: Monday - Saturday 9.30am - 5.00pm

New Arrivals

Hand made in platinum this fine white brilliant cut diamond is surrounded by a halo of smaller diamonds to create the perfect piece of jewellery.

The in house design team create beautiful jewellery every day; they can help you from the very beginning of the process or if you have diamonds and gemstones of your own they can create a new and modern item for you. Sometimes jewellery is handed down through a family and is no longer in fashion so rather than leave them in a drawer John Stevenson Jewellers can create a new and wearable piece of jewellery whilst keeping the stones and thereby keep the pieces that were passed on being worn for another generation to enjoy.

John Stevenson Jewellers, 2a Glumangate, Chesterfield S40 1TP 01246 270706 johnstevensonjewellers.com

90 | www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk

Watch Servicing & Repairs

Official OMEGA Service Store We also repair jewellery from sizing a ring to remodelling an older item with our designs

Fine Diamond Jewellery

Celebrate life’s occasions with our in house designs

The pre-owned Rolex specialists Exquisite watches bought and sold

Photography background features Le Corbusier’s visual art “OTHELLO” | © FLC / 2019, ProLitteris, Zurich.

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www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk | 91

Nourish with Diptyque Fresh Lotion For The Body £36 200ml Cool, fluid, pleasing.

The bright scent of Orange Blossoms.

Like a morning breeze that awakens the bay of Alexandria, this lotion refreshes sleepy skin, leaving it soft and replenished.

Smoothing Body Polish £48 200ml

Revitalizing Body Balm £52 125ml

Sumptuous, rich, regenerating. “Queen of All Fruits” the bountiful pomegranate from Carthage is brimming with virtues. This unique body polish provides twice the benefits: delicately exfoliating dead skin cells while generously restoring a supple, resilient look and feel.

The Formula: Pomegranate Seed Oil, rich in fatty acids and antioxidants, moisturizes and protects the skin, leaving it soft and silky. Jasmine Floral Water is a natural antiseptic that gently purifies the skin and activates cell renewal. Peach Butter comforts and nourishes the skin, making it extra supple.

The Fragrance: Spiked with the crisp, fruity notes of Pink Peppercorns and Peach, Jasmine Sambac is delightfully tender on the skin.

Silky, invigorating, nourishing. This moisturizing cream absorbs almost instantly, leaving the skin soft and smooth as satin. Blood orange stimulates and invigorates the entire body.

The Formula: Blood orange oil extract stimulates and invigorates the skin, leaving it soft and supple. Sesame oil, rich in essential fatty acids, helps the skin restructure and renew itself. Moringa oil revitalizes the skin, revealing its radiance.

For more information and to buy online visit www.diptyqueparis.com/en_uk

Smoothing Body Polish

I love the product packaging for the polish. The polish itself smells absolutely luxurious and divine.

It rubs on well to your skin and leaves such softness behind it’s well worth using. VP

Revitalizing Body Balm

This feels a truly luxurious balm, with a beautiful fresh fragrance. I used it regularly after showering and was surprised how quickly it melted into my skin. My hands too felt the benefit especially after the winter winds. JP

92 | www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk

Fresh Lotion

The fragrance is absolutely delicious, fresh and lively. The cream I found really softened my skin and was easily absorbed and long lasting. A beautiful, luxurious product. CB

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JOHN’S SOFA STUDIO UPHOLSTERY RE-UPHOLSTERY REPAIRS All work carried out by our own skilled craftsmen with over 20 years of experience.

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Domestic & Commercial Work New Roofs and Re-roofs • Roof Repairs Chimney Works • Flat Roofs Garage & Extension Roofs Facias, Soffits & Guttering • UPVC We offer free advice non-obligatory quotes and estimates Contact us today on

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www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk | 93

COLIN GREEN **ROOM REVIVAL**

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J H JOINERY SERVICES LTD

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Tel: 01773 747265 Mobile: 07967 419 504 Email: weatherseal01@live.co.uk 94 | www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk

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WINDOWS DOORS CONSERVATORIES FASCIAS & SOFFITS REPAIR WORK Head Office/Showroom 28 Church Street Ripley Derbyshire DE5 3BU

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www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk | 95

motoring THE NEW MERCEDES AMG GLE 63 4MATIC+ COUPÉ

Combining Elegance With Powerful Performance

A

thletic with chiselled corners and edges – the exterior design. The new Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 4MATIC+ Coupé boasts an exterior design that is more striking all round and clearly distinguishable from the standard Mercedes-Benz models with AMG Line. The unique exterior design idiom extends from the hallmark AMG radiator trim, bonnet and front apron to the side design and rear end.

One of the most striking exterior features of the new Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 4MATIC+ Coupé is without doubt the AMG-specific radiator trim: with its vertical fins in high-gloss chrome and the unmistakable AMG logo, it makes it clear straight away what you can expect from a Mercedes-AMG exterior.

The dominant bonnet with its wide, strongly contoured

powerdomes is a clear indication of the immense power within the new Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 4MATIC+ Coupé.

The new-look AMG rear apron with the sporty diffuser and a trim strip in high-gloss black puts a far greater emphasis on breadth at the rear of the new Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 4MATIC+ Coupé. The AMG exhaust system with its two round twin tailpipe trim elements in black with chrome plating is a final, dynamic exclamation mark.

The powerful 3.0-litre six-cylinder in-line engine with twin turbochargers, electric auxiliary compressor, integrated starter-alternator and peak torque of 520 Nm offers outstanding acceleration and sheer driving pleasure in the new Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 4MATIC+ Coupé.[1] In addition, the agile AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive ensures direct response and ideal power delivery.

Peugeot Diesels On Target To Achieve Rde2 Compliance Nearly A Year Before Deadline

T

he latest generation of PEUGEOT diesel cars is on target to meet tough new emissions standards nearly a year before they come into effect, providing significant savings to company car drivers.

Vehicles including the all-new PEUGEOT 208 and all-new 2008 SUV are available with diesel engines that meet the latest RDE2 real-world driving emissions standards. Under European Union legislation, all new vehicles registered after January 2021 must meet the second phase of the Real Driving Emissions (RDE) test.

The Real Driving Emissions test is used to determine Nitrogen Oxide (NOx) emissions under real-world driving – with vehicle emissions measured through a Portable Emissions Measurement System (PEMS). Since September 2019, all new cars and vans sold in the UK have had to meet

Diesel cars that meet the RDE2 standards are currently exempt from a 4% surcharge to Benefit-in-Kind (BIK) company car tax rates which has been applied to all diesel models since 2018* and brings significant savings to company car owners and fleet operators.

96 | www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk

a maximum allowance of 168mg/ km NOx emissions under RDE testing.

However, from January 2021 onwards, the RDE2 standards mean new cars will only be allowed to emit up to 114.4mg/km NOx under real-world driving.

Advertise your

business here

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Millwall fan and whisky legend pays thousands for century-old England football shirt saved from jumble sale

A

famous writer, whisky legend and lifelong football fan has paid thousands of pounds for a 1911 England football shirt – and says it’s the answer to his prayers after a 35year quest to own one.

Jim Murray, a man regarded as the world’s best whisky writer, author of Whisky Bible and lifelong Millwall fan, drove from his Northamptonshire home at the crack of dawn to reach Hansons Auctioneers at Etwall, near Derby, hours in advance of their Sports Memorabilia Auction. (Feb 18).

He had to buy the shirt thanks to its connection to the team he supports. It was worn in an England v Wales British Home Championship game at Millwall’s ground, The Den, London, on March 13, 1911. England won 3-0 in front of a crowd of 22,000.

There has never been a full international game played at Millwall since.

Hansons sports memorabilia valuer David Wilson-Turner with the 1911 England football shirt.

The Three Lions badge.

Auctioneer Claire Howell during the sale.

The shirt – which almost went to a Wolverhampton jumble sale – sparked an intense battle between phone and internet bidders but the Millwall fan, who was in the saleroom to bid and watch as the drama unfolded, would not be beaten. The hammer finally fell at £4,000 – four times the shirt’s original estimate of £800-£1,200.

Jim, 62, a former Fleet Street journalist who left newspapers behind to become the world’s first-ever full-time whisky writer, said buying the shirt was a dream come true.

He said: “I’ve wanted a shirt from that game since 1985 – that’s 35 years ago. I’m quite well known and have sold millions of books but my first book was Millwall: Lions of The South which I started writing in 1985. That’s when I knew I’d like to own a shirt from that game. “In the book there’s a picture from that game in 1911 with players wearing the shirt. But after 35 years I’d all but given up hope of ever finding one. They barely come up for any nation pre-First World War, so I reasoned that the chances of finding one from the Millwall game must be next to nil.

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“When I saw a story about the shirt online, I had to read it three or four times before it really sank in that one was coming up for auction. It will be truly treasured. It’s a relic from a bygone age, something to be absolutely cherished. I will treat it with the respect it deserves. “The first thing I will do is put it in the freezer to kill off any moth eggs. I will also be talking to a museum about the best way to preserve it.”

The historical treasure, which displays the three lions England badge, was uncovered in Wolverhampton by Hansons. Though records reveal England won 3-0 and provide full team line-ups, it’s not known which England player wore the shirt as it ended up in the possession of Welsh international footballer Ted Vizard.

David Wilson-Turner, sports memorabilia expert at Hansons, said: “Just like today, players sometimes swapped shirts after a game. Vizard was playing for Wales, gaining his third cap in his first match against England. He swapped his shirt with one of the England players – we just don’t know which one.

“I’m absolutely delighted for Jim Murray – a lifelong football fan, sports memorabilia collector and legend in the world of whisky. There was no swaying him. He had to have it and it’s wonderful to know it will be treasured.”

The seller, who did not wish to be named, said: “I’m pleased and surprised by the result – and delighted it will be going to someone who will really appreciate it. The shirt was given to my mother about 50 years ago. She used to clean for Ted Vizard and his wife in the early 1970s in the Tettenhall area of Wolverhampton.

“She brought the shirt home one day and said the Vizards were having a clear out of items to send to a jumble sale. Mrs Vizard knew my mother had two sons and asked if she would like the England shirt from his first match playing for Wales against England. She told mum the shirt had been swapped after the game. “My mother kept the shirt in a plastic bag in a drawer for years and occasionally got it out to show people and talk about how she was given it. “My mother died two years ago and the proceeds from the sale of the shirt will be shared with my brother and sister.”

Ted (Edward) Vizard was born in Cogan, Wales, in 1889. The outside left joined Bolton Wanderers in September 1910 from Barry and made 512 appearances for The Trotters scoring 70 goals. He also notched up 22 international caps for Wales.

He went on to be a manager for Swindon, QPR and Wolves.

He died at the age of 84 on Christmas Day in 1973.The 1911 England football shirt was sold in a Sports Memorabilia Auction at Hansons, Heage Lane, Etwall, Derbyshire, DE65 6LS. To find out more or arrange a free sports memorabilia valuation, email dwilsonturner@hansonsauctioneers.co.uk.

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