North May 2019

COUNTRY

Keeping Up Appearances

North Edition - May 2019

IMAGES WALK: Thor’s Cave & The Manifold Valley

Yummy Mummies Steve Orme interviews

Modern Collectibles

ROYAL CROWN DERBY PAPER WEIGHTS

Sergei Podobedov RHS Chatsworth Flower Show Lost Houses of Derbyshire

BRIMINGTON HALL www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk • Your Complimentary Lifestyle Magazine • Est. 1994

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Welcome to our

MAY 2019 edition

H

5

WALK

ere at Country Images Magazine we love the countryside.

Since our launch in 1994 we have enjoyed showing off the area in which we live. Our walks have been an ever present feature for our readers to enjoy, whatever the season.

As our lives get busier it’s good to find the time to relax in a quieter setting. What better way than by having a long, or short walk to dispel humdrum everyday thoughts.

14 More walks with a difference - written from Ramblers deep love and in-depth historical knowledge of this inspira tional County.

Each month we produce over 30,000 copies of County Images Magazine, which are delivered through letterboxes, stocked in over 70 outlets across Derbyshire & Nottinghamshire, read online at www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk and downloaded from the Apple app store and Google Play. All editions are produced FREE to read and download.

Country Images Magazine is conceived, written, designed, printed and delivered in Derbyshire

14 More walks with a difference - written from Ramblers deep love and in-depth historical knowledge of this inspirational County.

£2.99

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.

Issue 2

Country

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WALK2

£2.99

e - written s with a differenc historical 14 More walk love and in-depth from Ramblers deep inspirational County. knowledge of this

Issue 3

WALK 4 £2.99

Answers: Lough Neagh, River Foyle, Giant’s Causeway, Dark Hedges. George Best Belfast City Airport.

Winners: Hilary Smith. Allestree, Derby. Ian Churm, Duffield. Bob Poxon, Ripley. Gill O’Hagan, Alfreton.

Sally Kehr, Great Longstone. Phil Hughes, Belper.

We accepted River Bann as technically it is the longest river but not where I was!

WALK3 Issue 4

Where was I? Answers and Winners.

14 More walks with a difference - written from Rambler’s deep love and in-depth historical knowledge of this inspirational County.

£2.99

The fourteen walks in total, spread throughout Derbyshire, encompass all that is great about the countryside. From Tideswell to Melbourne there is a walk for everyone. The walks are all labelled as to their difficulty or ease, and include a little history of the area so you can discover the hidden secrets of our County.

With places to dine, drink or shop Walk Derbyshire 5 makes the complete summer companion. To order a copy of Walk Derbyshire 2, 3, 4 or 5 visit www.walkderbyshire.co.uk or buy one from Chatsworth Farm Shop, Bakewell Old House Museum, Wyaston Nurseries. Derbys Tourist Information Centre, Note: Only 20 copies of walk Derbyshire 2 left.

Issue 5

The launch of ‘Walk Derbyshire 5’ last month emphasised just how much we love the countryside around us. Two of the walks are from the earliest days of Country Images. One roams around the delightful village of Kirk Ireton and another enjoys the best views of Ogston Reservoir and Trinity Chapel.

Images Publishing Limited is a totally independent publishing company and is not connected with any other newspaper group.

All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written consent is strictly prohibited.

The publishers do not accept responsibility for any views expressed, or statements made, in signed contributions or in those reproduced from any other source.

No responsibility is borne for any errors made in any advertisement, or for claims made by any advertiser which are incorrect. The publishers reserve the right to refuse advertising deemed unsuitable for any reason. All material submitted is done so at the owner’s own risk and no responsibility is accepted by the publishers for its return.

Copyright Images Publishing Limited, Unit 5, Keys Road, Alfreton, Derbyshire, DE55 7FQ. Origination by Images Design & Print Limited 01773 830344

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BRIMINGTON HALL

Brimington Hall, entrance front, 1880s.

[David Coke-Steel]

I

have a feeling that, had Brimington Hall survived the rapid industrialization

of early 20th century Chesterfield, it would by now be listed grade I or II*, for it was, judging from our limited knowledge, a house of exceptional interest architecturally.

An estate at Brimington was held from the earliest times by a family which took their name from the place, the heiress of which eventually married Robert Le Breton who was lord of Walton-byChesterfield, another lost house – probably a rather large one, too – but one of which we have no known illustration; its site is now occupied by a good 18th century stone farmhouse. The Breton family, too, ended with an heiress who brought the estates of Walton and Brimington to Sir John Lowdham of Lowdham, in Nottinghamshire, but he too, left only a daughter, who married the younger son of one of the grandees of the Derbyshire Peak, Sir Godfrey Foljambe of Tideswell, Darley and Wormhill MP (1399-1371).

The

Lost Houses of Derbyshire

by Maxwell Craven

www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk | 9

Joseph Wright, The Revd. D’Ewaes Coke, his Wife Hannah and Daniel Parker Coke.

[Derby Museums Trust]

This younger son was Thomas, who settled at Walton, and whose younger great grandson Godfrey was settled for life at Brimington Hall. He died without leaving any legitimate issue (a natural son, Godfrey Foljambe alias Brownlow went off to live in Staffordshire at Croxden) and the house was then granted to his nephew, George Foljambe (1532-1580). He seems to have been the builder of the house as we know it, but quite what his predecessor, Godfrey had left is unclear. The date of George’s building was around the time of his marriage to Ursula, daughter of Richard Whalley of Screveton, also in Nottinghamshire: c.

1554, making it just about Elizabethan.

George’s tenure seems to have been for life, for when he died, the house and land, instead of passing to his daughter Troth, Lady Bellingham, reverted to his elder brother Sir Godfrey Foljabe of Walton, in whose line it descended, being used intermittently for younger sons and dowagers, until the time of Sir James

10 | www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk

Foljambe of Walton who, despite having been made a baronet in 1622, was facing considerable financial difficulties and was obliged to sell Brimington hall and estate in 1633 to Col. Gill, of a gentry family then recently settled further north in the county at Norton.

Built of course rubble of Ashgate sandstone, probably culled from an adjacent outcrop, with ashlar dressings of the same stone.

Its irregular plan is probably explained by slightly disorganized growth over the years from its first phase of building in the 1550s.

The entrance front was particularly irregular, the entrance itself being set in a modest portico with a room above topped by a shaped gable and sandwiched between a tall gabled range set at right angles with an attic dormer and a lower range with the gable facing the front but embellished by a very charming two storey canted bay with a little hipped roof over. To the left was another gabled range, parallel to that flanking the left of the door, and the right

ended with a gabled range parallel to that flanking the right hand side of the door: the effect was, nevertheless, one of great charm, with three and four light mullioned windows and paired diamond stacks rising from the stone slate roof.

The tall range to the left of the entrance was echoed by a similar range on the garden front, embellished by a stone orial window at first floor level. This joined awkwardly to a pair of straight coped gables with chimneys rising from their apices and with eight, two mullioned windows seemingly distributed at random. To the right, a low single storey range with attics ran from one side of the house to the other.

As the two large gables to the left of the garden front were of differing sizes and not set flush with each other, we may presume that they were built at marginally differing dates, but without the structure to examine in the flesh, disentangling the various alterations would appear to be a thankless task.

Below: Arms of Foljambe on the tomb of Sir Godfrey Foljambe, in Bakewell church.

Painted Chellaston alabaster, c. 1385.

in Worcestershire. In fact he was the representative of a junior branch of the Cokes of Trusley, whose ancestor George had been Bishop of Bristol and then of Hereford (1636-1646), where he had bought an estate.

Joseph Wright painted a celebrated triple portrait of D’Ewes, and Hannah Coke with their cousin, Derby radical Tory MP Daniel Parker Coke, grouped in a landscape – either Brimington or Brookhill (Pinxton) – looking at a plan, presumably of an intended landscape, perhaps by William Emes of Bowbridge Fields (1729-1803). The picture dates to 1781-1782 and one version is in the collections of the Derby Museums Trust.

Hannah looks pretty determined, and indeed, the family history records of her that ‘she was spoilt as a child’, which led

to her becoming ‘rather disagreeable as an adult’! D P Coke, on the other hand, was well liked in Derby as being ‘animated, public spirited and honest’.

I suggest that the landscape in the portrait might be Brookhill, for after Brookhill was rebuilt (probably by Joseph Pickford) and the landscaping done, the family converted the old Elizabethan house by 1816 into ‘small tenements, occupied by labourers.’ Brookhill was preferred because it was close to the Pinxton china factory, which the Cokes had founded.

Yet, decline was soon averted, for in the late 1830s it had been restored as a single dwelling and let to Chesterfield grandee B M Lucas, and later to George Heller.

Around this time, the house passed to another branch of the Cokes, the tenant

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Inside all we know is that there was a fine oak staircase, and that the main rooms had fine Sheffield School plaster ceilings, such as to this day survive at such places as North Lees (Hathersage), Cartledge and Brampton Halls. This exuberant plasterwork included a superb overmantel in the great chamber on the first floor replete with biblical figures, quotations from the Vulgate Bible and enclosed by terms at either end. One of the aspects of all this that makes me suggest that it would have received a pretty high statutory listing had it survived, is that it was never seriously rebuilt and seems to have retained its essential semi-vernacular Elizabethan fabric largely unaltered.

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The Gill family ended with an heiress who married into the local coal owning family of Heywood, the last of whom, George, was childless but left it to an heiress Hannah. She married D’Ewes Coke, who also had local commercial interests, despite having an inherited estate at Suckley

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then being local industrialist Charles Markham followed by Francis Sacheverell Wilmot, who was succeeded in residence

by R G Coke. He, though decided to sell it in 1890, to the Staveley Coal & Iron Company, which firm adapted it as a residence for their general manager, the last to live there being Henry Westlake, who died in 1918.

At this time, the Company chairman was another Chesterfield grandee, C. P. Markham, whose father, Charles, had married a daughter of Sir Joseph Paxton in 18623, and had taken a tenancy of Brimington Hall from the Cokes. Charles Paxton Markham, was actually born at the hall, yet in 1924, faced with the perennial problem of vandalism, with a notable lack of sentiment, ordered the house to be demolished. The first oor plaster overmantel was last seen, in pieces in an outhouse prior to demolition.

The outbuildings and walls survived until 1931. The equally ancient stone stables, latterly used as a barn, stood where a Wesleyan Chapel and a pair of shops were built in its place in 1895 in Heywood Street. This street, and Foljambe Road represent part of the redevelopment of the grounds with which the Staveley company proceeded in the wake of their vandalism, whilst vestiges of the small park survive as a somewhat anodyne green space lying either side of Hall Road, just south of the church.

Charles Paxton Markham (1865-1926).

[ChesterďŹ eld Museum]

Above: Brimington Hall, Garden front with Mrs. R G Coke, 1880s.

[David Coke-Steel] Insert: Coat of arms of the Cokes of Brimington.

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Keeping Up Appearances

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24 | www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk

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Modern Collectibles

by Maxwell Craven

Blue tit £100 [RCD]

ROYAL CROWN DERBY PAPER WEIGHTS

T

he Royal Crown Derby

(RCD) china factory on Osmaston Road had been going since 1878 and received a Royal Warrant to prefix its name with ‘Royal’ in 1890. In 1935 the firm absorbed the King Street China factory, thereby acquiring a virtually unbroken ceramic tradition going back to the foundation of the original factory on Nottingham Road in 1750 or thereabouts.

Since the later 20th century it has endured ups-and-downs, changes of ownership - some good, some less beneficial – and so on. The problem has always been to maintain sales at a level commensurate with keeping the company profitable.

This has involved the marketing men, one of whom in 1981 suggested that to launch a range of anthropomorphic Imari painted paperweights might be a good idea.

A modest range was introduced from that September and indeed, collectors liked them, although the first series were a little fragile and, being filled with sand, were heavy to post and leaked. The leakages were because the base was fitted with a gilt-metal stopper which could come loose.

Consequently, the bodies were made stronger and were made more robust. The stoppers for the first seventeen of this revised range were ceramic and fired on, with a hole beside the position to aid firing.

Imari gold band limited edition swan £595 [RCD]

30 | www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk

Howling Wolf [Bamfords Ltd]

Golden eagle £335 [RCD]

Admiral Lord Nelson pub [Private collection]

Derby County ram £175 [Private collection]

This, too was found to be unsatisfactory – the marketing men discovered the collectors did not like ceramic false stoppers. So from this point the gilt stoppers were re-introduced and the paperweights sold empty of sand, allowing the punter to install his own makeweight. The models were also boxed, and if you decide to collect these modest but attractive and colourful items, buying one with its box is absolutely essential.

To date there seem to have been some 488 different models, mostly birds, animals and mythical creatures, but occasionally a building (a model of a typical pub called The Admiral Lord Nelson to commemorate Trafalgar’s 200th anniversary in 2005 for instance) or other less animate object, like crowns. A miniature range numbering some 50 different designs was also introduced, although how effective these would be at holding down one’s papers in a stiff breeze is open to question.

Models were ‘retired’ and replaced by new ones regularly, thus ensuring rarity and other commemorations made. Indeed, to celebrate the 21st anniversary of the entire paperweight range in 2002, a special seven-sided gilt metal stopper was introduced on a limited basis.

To buy these paperweights new from RCD tends to be expensive, for each one is handdecorated by one of the company’s china painters, so no two are exactly alike. Hence

Lama [Bamfords Ltd] today prices range from a modest £100 for a Blue Tit, through to a gilt butterfly for £180, a golden eagle (close) for £335, to the giddy heights of the Old Imari gold band limited edition swan which will leave you with but a fiver in change from a £600 punt.

If you are going to collect, you have to buy second hand; at auction is perhaps best.

Bamford’s recently had a howling wolf on offer estimated at £40-60 (boxed) and an unboxed lama at £25-35 with gold stopper.

For smaller ones, we tend to lot them in groups, especially if lacking boxes. On e-bay too bargains may be had. I noticed one called Boris on offer at £70, and clicked upon it wondering if it was a caricature of a well-known blonde politician, but – alas!

– it turned out to be a rather nice badger introduced in February 2006 and priced at £70, although when I was young, badgers tended to be called Bill and were friends of Rupert.

A popular paperweight from 2003 was a limited-edition Derby County ram decorated

by Sue Rowe which retailed at £95. Only 200 were made, so today that would turn out to be a good investment, with prices ranging recently from £120 to an eye-watering £275.

Another popular one is the well-known meerkat from a certain TV advertisement and named (ironically) after a member of a Russian Princely family. From an initial price

of over £100, examples with gold stopper and box are turning up ranging from £55 to £95 – clearly you need to buy second hand: simples.

Incidentally, you will encounter examples with silver coloured stoppers - sometime quite difficult to distinguish from certain gold coloured ones, so care is needed when examining them. These are to distinguish ‘seconds’ from top quality examples, and command somewhat lower prices. If you want to collect them for the sheer enjoyment of their varied forms and vivid colours, then silver stoppers might suit your taste and pocket.

But if you require quality, and something which will, if you keep it long enough, represent a reasonable investment, you need to buy examples unchipped with colours uncompromised, with gold coloured stoppers and with box of sale in good condition.

Furthermore, some limited editions, like the Derby County ram, do appreciate well, although not much movement on The Lord Nelson as yet, I’m afraid.

They are always marked on the underside and carry the usual RCD date, so you can date your acquisitions, too. Nevertheless, if you buy on-line or at auction, you can if you are lucky pick up items at a very reasonable cost and indeed at auction you might catch one of the rarer ones at an affordable price.

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150 YEARS IN BUSINESS 150 YEARS IN BUSINESS

Nutt Nutt & & Sons Sons celebrate celebrate 150 150 years years in in business! business!

Q

UEEN Victoria was on the throne, UEEN Victoria onMinister, the throne, Gladstone waswas Prime Gladstone was PrimeitsMinister, Sainsbury’s opened first Sainsbury’s opened itsLondon first store in Drury Lane in store in Drury Lane in London and the clipper ship Cutty Sark and the ship Cutty was launched.

Theclipper year was 1869.

AnSark was launched.

The year wasexpect 1869. An agricultural labourer could to agricultural could£63 expect to earn £41 perlabourer year, a miner per year earn per year, a miner peragainst year and a£41 teacher £97 per year.£63 It was and a teacher £97 year. It was against this backdrop thatper William Robert Nutt, this backdrop that William Robert Nutt, great-grandfather of the current Managing great-grandfather of the current Director, David Nutt, opened theManaging original Director, DavidinNutt, the original WR Nutt shop Clayopened Cross. This year WR Nutt shop in Clay Cross.

This year marks the 150th year of continuous trading marks the 150th year of continuous trading by the Nutt family byClay the Nutt family in Cross. in Clay Cross.

Trading and Trading and enterprise are enterprise are firmly entrenched firmly entrenched in the blood of in the blood of the Nutt family. the Nutt family.

As far back as As back as thefar eighteenth the eighteenth century, George century, George Nutt, current Nutt, current Managing Director David’s great-great-great Managing Director David’sto great-great-great grandfather, was believed be a horse grandfather, was believed to be a horse dealer in Uppingham, near Peterborough. dealer in Uppingham, near Peterborough.

48 Reflections April 2019 36 | www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk 48 Reflections April 2019

George’s son, Thomas Nutt, moved George’s son, Thomas Nutt, moved from Uppingham to Peterborough from“commenced Uppingham to and inPeterborough a humble way and “commenced in a humble in the hardware line”.

When heway in the hardware line”.

When he had accumulated enough money, had accumulated enough money, he became a horse dealer and he became a horse dealer and built up a “very large business”. builtof uphis a “very One clientslarge wasbusiness”. the eldest One ofthe his Duke clientsofwas theThomas eldest son of Teck. son of the Duke of Teck.

Thomas Nutt died at an early age – only Nutt died–at anleft early – only 41 years and hisage wife ER 41 years – and left hiseleven wife ER Nutt (Elisabeth) and children.

Nutt (Elisabeth) and eleven children.

With eleven children to feed, Elisabeth With eleven children to feed, became a businesswoman in herElisabeth own right. became a businesswoman in her own right.

An advertisement An advertisement from Peterborough from at thePeterborough time, shows at theE.R. time, shows that Nutt was that E.R. Nutt was a dealer in “Higha dealer in “HighClass Hunters, match Class Hunters, horses, harnessmatch horses horses, harness horses and ladies’ hacks and hacks and ladies’ cobs”. She also and also gavecobs”. ridingShe lessons gave riding lessons to ladies, gentlemen to ladies, gentlemen and children.

This and children.

This business was run from Rutland House, business was run from Rutland House, Eastgate, in Peterborough. Elisabeth reEastgate, Peterborough.

Elisabeth remarried ain man called Mr Burton.

A further married a man called Mr Burton. A further

Above: ER (Elisabeth) Nutt, David’s Above: ER (Elisabeth) Nutt,was David’s great-great-grandmother, a renowned great-great-grandmother, was renowned and successful horse dealer in aPeterborough and successful horse dealer in Peterborough Left: Thomas Nutt, David’s greatLeft: Thomas Nutt, was David’s greatgreat-grandfather, a horse great-grandfather, was aduring horse dealer in Peterborough dealer Peterborough during the lateinnineteenth century. the late nineteenth century. advert from the day describes E.R. Nutt as advert fromhorse the day describes E.R. Nutt as a “licensed and cattle slaughterer” a “licensed cattle The slaughterer” based at thehorse aboveand address. business based at thewas above address. business undertaken reported asThe “animals killed undertaken was reported as “animals killed with the RSPCA Humane Killers and removed with the RSPCA Humane Killers and removed To advertise call 01246 550488 To advertise call 01246 550488

150 YEARS IN BUSINESS 150 YEARS IN BUSINESS at the Shortest Notice”. Further business at the Shortest Notice”.

Further business ventures included “Manufacturer of blood ventures “Manufacturer of blood and boneincluded compound manure. Specially and bone for compound prepared all crops.manure.

AnalysisSpecially guaranteed”. prepared all crops. guaranteed”.

One offor Thomas andAnalysis Elisabeth’s sons, One of Thomas and Elisabeth’s sons, William Robert Nutt, who is David’s greatWilliam Robert Nutt, who is David’s grandfather, came to Derbyshire andgreatset grandfather, to Derbyshire and set up a businesscame at King Street in Clay Cross up1869. a business at King Street Clay Cross in William Robert was in a general in 1869.but William Robert was a general dealer, mainly in furniture, flooring dealer, but mainly in furniture, flooring and American clocks. He was certainly and American clocks.

He was certainly no push over. In January 1872, he sued no push over.

In January he sued Midland Railway at Derby1872, County Court to Midland Railway at Derby Court to the sum of £7 for failure to County deliver American the sum of £7 for failure to deliver American clocks from a business in Sheffield. clocks from athe business in Sheffield.

Although business was centred Although thearound business was centred predominantly furniture, the predominantly aroundRobert furniture, commodities William dealtthe in commodities William Robert were many and various.

A billdealt fromin1896 were manythe and various.asA“furnishing bill from 1896 describes business stores”. describes the business as “furnishing Underneath, however, the descriptionstores”.

Underneath, however, the description expands to “house furnishers”, “brokers” expands to “house furnishers”, and “general dealers” as well as“brokers” “dealers in and “general dealers”implements”. as well as “dealers harness and farming A bill in harness and farming implements”. bill from 1906 incorporates “cricket andAfootball from 1906 incorporates “cricket and football goods by leading makers”. Another bill goodsDecember by leading6,makers”.

Another from 1906 shows that abill watch frombeen December 1906 shows a watch has sold by6,WR Nutt to Mrthat K Bryan has been

by WR Nutt Bryan for £8 andsold 10 shillings, andtoaMr billKfrom 1901 for £8 and 10 shillings, and a bill from reveals that a tricycle had been sold. 1901 reveals that a tricycle had beensold sold.include The myriad of commodities The cloths, myriadoval of commodities soldtrays, include calico, dishes, baking calico, cloths, oval dishes, baking trays, frying pans, shovels, teapots, spoons, forks frying pans,carpets, shovels,oilcloths, teapots, linoleums spoons, forks bedsteads, and bedsteads, linoleums all manner carpets, of goodsoilcloths, too long to list themand all! all manner of goods too longSaturday to list them An advertisement dated 28, all!

An1917 advertisement dated Saturday April in the Derbyshire Advertiser28, and April 1917 in the Derbyshire Journal promotes an auctionAdvertiser being heldand Journal promotes auction being held

by WR Nutt of fouran stone-built dwelling by WR Nutt of four stone-built dwelling houses and two closes of land. The auction houses andattwo of land.

The auction took place Thecloses Gate Inn at Tansley. took place at TheWR Gate Inn at Tansley.

Increasingly Nutt organised Increasingly WR2,Nutt auctions.

On April 1922organised the company auctions.

On April 2, 1922 auctioned the contents of the Thecompany Vicarage auctioned the contents of Vicarage following the death of the The Revd.

J L Blake. following the death of the Revd. J L Blake.

and flourish; always dreaming up new ideas and flourish; dreaming upmoney. new ideas on what to sellalways and how to make An on what to sell from and how to make money. An advertisement Friday 24, December advertisement from 24,asDecember 1937 describes T NuttFriday & Sons “The 1937 describes T Nutt &“We Sonstake as “The Exchange Specialists”. your Car or Exchange “We take your Car or MotorcycleSpecialists”. in part exchange for Furniture Motorcycle in part exchange for Furniture or Radio,” was the slogan of the day. or Radio,” wasat the of the day.

Now based 12,slogan High Street, Clay Nowthe based at 12,describes High Street, Clay Cross, business itself as, Cross, the business describes itself “Stockists of high-class furniture byas, the “Stockists of high-class in furniture by the leading manufacturers the country. leadingfor manufacturers in theof country.

Agents all the best makes radio Agents for all the best radio sets.

Terms spread overmakes 1, 2 orof 3 years.” sets.

Terms spread over 1,averse 2 or 3to years.”

The company wasn’t putting company averseintoaputting theThe latest designswasn’t of furniture Show the latest furniture a Show House anddesigns invitingofthe generalinpublic House general public to comeand andinviting have a the look.

The plan was to come and have apeople look. The planthen wassell as naturally to entice in and naturally to entice people in and then sell as

much as possible of the ‘in vogue’ furniture much as possible of the ‘in vogue’ furniture afterwards.

One such show house was on afterwards.

Onein such waspublic on Holmgate Road Clayshow Crosshouse and the Holmgate Road in Clay Cross and the public were invited from July 19 to August 2, 1939 were invitedTimes from July to August 2,Herald).

1939 (Derbyshire and19 Chesterfield (Derbyshire Times and Chesterfield Herald).

An advert from Friday 22, March 1940 An advert from FridayDiscount 22, March offers “Extra Special for1940 Cash”! offers “Extra Special Discount Cash”!

Even on 25th February 1944for T Nutt & Even on 25th February 1944 T Nutt & Sons describes itself as “The oldest and Sons describes itself as “The oldest and Largest Private Concern in the District”.

Largest Private Concern thethe District”.

Little did Thomas know in that company Little did knowinthat the company would be Thomas still running April 2019 – 75 would be still running in and Aprildynamism 2019 – 75 years later!

The diversity years The at diversity and dynamism of the later! business the time is summed up of the business at the time is summed neatly by, “Wanted: furniture, pianos, up neatly by, “Wanted: pianos,and shot-guns, mangles, furniture, radios, anything shot-guns, mangles, radios, everything.

Best prices.

Spotanything cash.” and everything.

Best prices.

Spot cash.”

By 1946 removals were part of the By 1946 removals were part of the

Above: William Robert Nutt, the founder Above: Nutt,inthe founder of Nutt William & Sons inRobert Clay Cross 1869, of Nutt & Sons in Clay Cross in 1869, was also an auctioneer and valuer. was also an auctioneer and valuer.

Above inset: WR Nutt also sold Above WR Nutt also at sold footballinset: and cricket goods football and cricket goods at the turn of the century. the turn of the century.

Left: The Crown Hotel in Clay Left: The Crown in Clay Cross in 1901 – theHotel location of the Cross in T1901 the location current Nutt– & Sons shop. of the current T Nutt & Sons shop.

When William Robert died, his son, When was William Robert died, his son, Thomas, left to fend for himself and Thomas, was left tosuccess fend for and made a creditable ofhimself the business made a creditable success of the business his father had begun.

He did exceptionally his had begun.

He did exceptionally wellfather in business and became a well-known well in business and became a well-known and respected figure in Clay Cross.

He and respected figure in Clay Cross. also served on the local council andHe was a also served the local council was ato Justice of theonPeace.

Thomas wasand married Justice ofwho the Peace.

Thomas was to Eleanor, also helped with themarried furniture Eleanor, who also helped with the furniture business. Together, they lived at Stretton. business.

Together, theycontinue lived at Stretton.

T Nutt & Sons would to diversify T Nutt & Sons would continue to diversify 50 Reflections April 2019 50 our Reflections 2019 Visit website atApril www.reflections-magazine.com

To advertise call 01246 550488 www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk | 2019 37 To advertise call 01246 49 Reflections April550488

150 YEARS IN BUSINESS 150 YEARS IN BUSINESS

Above: Thomas and Eleanor Nutt, David’s grandfather and grandmother, pictured Above: Thomas and(from Eleanor David’s grandfather and grandmother, with their children left Nutt, to right), Robert, Thomas (David’s father), andpictured Hazel. with their children (from left to right), Robert, Thomas (David’s father), and Hazel.

Left: ‘Tommy’ Nutt (left), David’s grandfather, served on the Council, as well as Left: (left), David’s served on businessman. the Council, as well as being‘Tommy’ a JusticeNutt of the Peace, and, grandfather, of course, a successful being a Justice of the Peace, and, of course, a successful businessman.

t nutt

Above (centre): Thomas Nutt, David’s Above (centre): Nutt,aDavid’s grandfather, usedThomas to organise ‘show grandfather, used tohis organise a ‘show home’ to showcase furniture displays. home’ to showcase his furniture displays.

Above (bottom): T Nutt & Sons advertising Above (bottom): T Nutt &Specialists’.

Sons advertising themselves as ‘Exchange themselves as ‘Exchange Specialists’.

Right (top): Thomas and Evelyn Right (top): Thomas andmother.

Evelyn Nutt, David’s father and Nutt, David’s father and mother.

Right: Thomas and Evelyn’s Right: Thomas and Evelyn’s children, Roy, Chris, David (current children, Roy, Chris, David (current Managing Director) and Michael.

Managing Director) and Michael.

52 Reflections April 2019 38 | www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk 52 Reflections April 2019

business in addition to the mainstream businessline in addition to the mainstream trading of furniture.

Radios and cycles trading line of furniture.

Radios anddistrict cycles were also being sold. People of the were also being sold.

People of the district were invited to a “Furnished Bungalow were invited to a “Furnished Bungalow on View”, which boasted all the latest on View”, which boasted all the latest designs from the ‘Daily Mail’ Ideal Home designs from theonly ‘Daily Mail’ Ideal Home Exhibition.

Not that, “A Komfort Suite Exhibition. only that,of “AAfghanistan” Komfort Suite as supplied Not to the Queen as supplied toin the Queen of Afghanistan” was included the furniture on view! wasThomas included in Eleanor the furniture on view! and also had five Thomas Eleanor alsoand hadhis five children, of and which Thomas younger children, of which Thomas and his younger brother Robert came into the business brother Robert came intoWar. the business before the Second World T Nutt & Sons before the Second World War. Nutt & Sons continued to sell anything andTeverything. continued sell anything During theto post-war years, and billseverything. show the Duringand the re-upholstery post-war years, show repair ofbills settees.

Bythe repair and re-upholstery ofthe settees.

By 1952 one invoice describes business 1952 one invoice describes the business as “Body Builders & Coach Painters”. as “Body Builders Painters”.

The main thrust&ofCoach the business, however, thrustBob of the business, wasThe stillmain furniture. was a Derby however, County was still furniture.

Bob was a DerbyheCounty supporter and, for home matches, would supporter and, for homesupporters matches, he round up fellow Rams’ andwould head round up fellowvan Rams’ supporters andshop. head to the furniture at the back of the to the furniture van at the back of the shop.

They would set off to the Baseball Ground They would setofoff to the Baseball Ground sitting on bits furniture and covered up in sitting on bits of furniture carpet just in case they and covered up in carpet just in case they were stopped by the were stopped by the Police. Non-essential Police. Non-essential journeys were not journeysduring were not allowed postallowed duringThey postwar rationing. war rationing.

They took a piano every took piano every weekaon the pretext weekiton the pretext that was being that it wastobeing delivered a house delivered to a house in Derby. Instead, it in Instead, justDerby. kept going up it just up and kept downgoing the A61! andDavid downand theRoy, A61!

David and Roy, Thomas’s sons, Thomas’s sons, along with Patrick, along with Patrick, Robert’s son, joined Robert’s son, joined

the company in the Sixties. As years the companythe in business the Sixties.

As yearsmoved progressed, gradually progressed, the business gradually moved away from furniture and into carpets away from furniture and into carpets and flooring. Current Managing Director and flooring.

Current Managing Director David, along with younger brother, Keven, David, along with younger Keven, also a director, now run thebrother, business. alsoOver a director, nowT run business. the years, Nuttthe & Sons has been Over theboth years, T Nuttand & Sons has been recognised locally nationally recognised both locally and nationally for its excellence in customer service and for its excellence in customer service for and quality of products.

Their reputation quality of products. providing customersTheir with reputation top-qualityfor providing customers with service, workmanship andtop-quality fair, friendly, service, workmanship and fair, friendly, professional advice is unrivalled. professional advice is unrivalled.

To advertise call 01246 550488 To advertise call 01246 550488

150 YEARS IN BUSINESS 150 YEARS IN BUSINESS This has resulted in a string of awards and This hasPatrick resulted in afor string of awards accolades.

Nutt, example, whoand accolades.

Patrick Nutt, for example, whothe trains and oversees the fitting team, won trains andInstitute overseesofthe fitting team, won the National Carpet Fitters ‘On Site National Institute of Carpet Fitters ‘On Site Assessment Award’ for three successive years.

Assessment for three successive He was also Award’ placed 5th, 3rd, 2nd and 4thyears. in He was also placed 5th,at3rd, andFitter 4th in four consecutive years the2nd Carpet four years atIn the Carpet Fitter of theconsecutive Year Competition. reinforcing the of the Year Competition.

In reinforcing the message about the high standards expected message about the high standards expected of the fitting team, Patrick said, “All our fitters of thetofitting team, Patrick said, “All our fitters have read the British Standards BS5325 have to readof the British Standards BS5325 Installation textile floorcoverings – Code Installation of textile – Code of Practice and know floorcoverings it like the Bible.” of Practice and know it like the Bible.”

In 2011, an independent survey was In 2011, survey was carried out an by independent The Carpet Foundation carried out byof TheTCarpet on customers Nutt &Foundation Sons. These on customers of chosen T Nutt at & random.

Sons. These customers were The customers were chosen at about random. responses spoke volumes theThe responses spoke volumes about the highest levels of service and craftsmanship highest levels of service and craftsmanship offered by this 150-year old company. offered this 150-year old company.

100%bycustomer satisfaction is unassailable customer satisfaction is Sons unassailable and100% that is exactly what T Nutt & and that isinexactly what“It T Nutt & Sons achieved this survey. is very difficult achieved in thiswas survey.

“It is veryfrom difficult to beat 100%,” the comment to beat 100%,” was the comment from Michael Hardiman, Chief Executive of Michael Hardiman, Chief customer recommendation. As members of The Carpet Foundation atExecutive the time. of customer Asbelieves members of TheThe Carpet Foundation at thewas time. the Carpetrecommendation.

Foundation, David that purchase experience scrutinised the Foundation, believes that Thesix purchase was scrutinised thisCarpet gives the company aDavid cutting edge over using differentexperience criteria, including this gives theitscompany a cutting edge overthe using sixofdifferent competitors.

He describes attitude staff, criteria, including its competitors.

He describes the attitude of staff, Carpet Foundation as “the best professionalism, Carpetthat Foundation as “the professionalism, thing has happened inbest the commitments met, “Judges recognised thing thatinhas in the commitments met, industry thehappened past 20 years.” invoices matching “Judges recognised industry in the past 20 years.” invoices matching T Nutt & Sons has also been quote, handling of and praised the T NuttWhich? & SonsTrusted has alsoTrader been quote, handling of granted carpet installation and praised the grantedThe Which?

Trusted Trader carpet installation business for its status.

Which?

Trusted and quality of business for its status. scheme The Which? and quality of only Trusted awards this advice.

The results “outstanding service Trader Trader scheme only awards advice.

The results certification to the very best this showed outstanding “outstanding service certification to the very bestthe showed outstanding to all customers”.” businesses, who maintain performance, and to all customers”.” businesses, who maintain the performance, and highest professional standards. all the customers highest professional standards. all the customers Director Keven Nutt said, “We said that they were Director KevenWhich?

Nutt said, “We said that theyfrom werethe company again. are extremely proud of being Trusted likely to buy are extremely proudmeans of being Which?

Trusted likely to 80% buy from the company again.

Traders.

The award that our business With of T Nutt & Son’s business Traders. award meansand thatgained our business Withfrom 80% the of Tresidential Nutt & Son’s business has been The vetted rigorously full coming market place and has been vetted rigorously and gained coming from the residential market place and endorsement. Although we have been full 20% from contract, most orders come from endorsement. Although we have been 20% from contract, most orders come from

54 Reflections April 2019 Visit website at www.reflections-magazine.com 54 our Reflections April 2019

Above: Patrick Nutt (bottom left) was a Above: in Patrick Nutt (bottom was a finalist the Carpet Fitter of left) the Year finalist in thefor Carpet Fitter of the years.

Year competition four consecutive competition for four consecutive years.

Below: Proud moment for David (centre) and Below:Nutt Proud moment forof David (centre) and Keven with Sue Carr award sponsor Keven Nutt with Suebeen Carr of award sponsor V Formation having awarded RunnerV having awarded RunnerupFormation in the ‘Best Smallbeen Business’ category of up in the ‘Best Small Business’ category the Midlands Family Business Awards. of the Midlands Family Business Awards. trading for over 150 years, it is still rewarding trading forrecognition over 150 years, it ison-going still rewarding to receive for our efforts. to receive recognition for our on-going efforts.

It is also further reassurance to our everIt is also further reassurance to our evergrowing band of loyal customers that we are growing bandthe of loyal that we are still attaining samecustomers level of excellence.” stillThe attaining samefor level excellence.” vettingthe process theofaward The vettingand process forathe is exhaustive entails visitaward from a is exhaustive and entails a visit from a professionally-qualified assessor, who professionally-qualified assessor, who undertakes a thorough scrutiny of the undertakes a thorough scrutiny the business and its methods, ethicsofand business andThis its methods, procedures. involves aethics creditand check procedures.

Thiscustomer involves areference credit check and randomised and randomised customer reference checks, as well as an examination of the checks, as well processes, as an examination of the administrative documentation administrative documentation and complaintsprocesses, procedures. andTcomplaints Nutt & Sonsprocedures. also gained glowing T Nutt &inSons also gained glowing accolades the Family Business Awards accolades in the Family Business Awards in 2011 and 2013. In 2011 the company in 2011 and 2013.

In 2011 the company was crowned runner-up in the Best was crowned runner-upcategory in the Best Small Family Business of the Small Family Business category of the Midlands Family Business awards.

Judges Midlands Family Business awards.

Judges recognised and praised the business for recognised and praised the business for its “outstanding service to all customers”. its addition “outstanding service all customers”.

In plaudits weretobestowed on In addition were bestowed on the firm for plaudits its “loyalty to customers”. theIn firm for its “loyalty to customers”. receiving the award, David Nutt said, receivingevery the award, David Nuttofsaid, “WeInconsider customer as part our “We consider every customer as part of our family. And family unity reaps success, family. And family unity reaps success, always.

We are regularly assured of our always. are regularly assured of But our to excellentWe service by our customers. excellent service by our customers.

But be recognised by an independent panelto of be recognised independent panel of judges, meansby so an much to us. We believe judges, means so much to us. We believe To advertise call 01246 550488 www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk | 2019 39 53 Reflections April550488 To advertise call 01246

150 YEARS IN BUSINESS 150 YEARS IN BUSINESS

of over 150 independent retail carpet and that is the goodwill of our customers that of over 150 independent carpet and that is the goodwill of our flooring specialists.

Withretail a purchasing has enabled us to win thiscustomers award andthat we flooring specialists.

With a purchasing has enabled us to win this award and we power just as great or greater than that of the dedicate this award to them. We pledge to power just Greendale as great oroffers greater than thatthe of the dedicate award them. We pledge to multiples, customers continue this to serve ourto‘family’ customers multiples, offers to customers the continue to serve our ‘family’ customers best of bothGreendale worlds: access an unparalleled with sincerity, loyalty and tremendous best of both worlds: to an unparalleled with sincerity, and tremendous pricing structure andaccess the excellent service pride.”

In 2013 loyalty T Nutt & Sons was ‘Highly pricing structure and theretailers. excellent service pride.”

In 2013for T Retail Nutt &Excellence’ Sons was ‘Highly offered by independent Commended at the offered byKeven, independent Commended for RetailAwards Excellence’ at the David, Patrickretailers. and Andrew are same Family Business ceremony.

David, Keven, Patrick and Andrew are same Family Business Awards ceremony. still working at T Nutt & Sons to this very In recent years David was invited to be still working at T“Keeping Nutt & Sons this very In recent on years David was invited be day.

Keven says, it intothe family interviewed BBC’s Working Lunchtoand day. says, “Keeping it inquality the family interviewed onpart BBC’s givesKeven us absolute control over and the fitters took in Working DIY SOS.Lunch T Nuttand & Sons gives us absolute control over quality and the fitters took part in DIY SOS. T Nutt & Sons service. If there’s a problem, a contractor also featured in the Carpet Foundation’s service.

If there’s a problem, a contractor also featured in the Carpet Foundation’s will blame a retailer, or a builder will national advertising campaign. As a result of will blameabout a retailer, or a builder national advertising accolades, campaign. customers As a result can of complain a contractor.

Thewill customer all these prestigious complain about a contractor.

The customer all theseassured prestigious customers can doesn’t know who to turn to in order to remain that accolades, the impeccable standing doesn’t who toIt’s turn to inbetter order for to remain assured thatname the impeccable standing resolve aknow complaint. much of the ‘Nutt’ family will long continue. resolve a complaint.

It’s much better for of the ‘Nutt’ family name will long continue. customers to deal with us, as they can Directors David and Keven Nutt along with customers to deal with they direct.” can Directors Davidstrive and Keven Nuttthe along with usually speak to one of us, theas family cousin Patrick to ensure hardusually speak to oneT of the&family cousin Patrick strive to ensure the hardNutt Sons’ direct.” premises earned reputation Nutt & Sons’ premises earned reputation areTwelcoming and wellof the business is are welcoming and wellof the business is lit, with a comprehensive always maintained.

“T Nutt & Sons’ lit, with comprehensive always maintained. range of aneatly-displayed Making up the “T Nutt & Sons’ range of neatly-displayed Making up the premises are welcoming stock. The company has team is manager, stock.

The company has premises are welcoming on team is manager, display carpets and Andrew Gregory, and well-lit, with a on display carpets and Andrew Gregory, floorcoverings from all the who started as a and well-lit, with a from all the who started leading manufacturers, Saturday boyas30a comprehensive range of floorcoverings manufacturers, Saturday comprehensive range of leading and good presentation is years or soboy ago30 neatly-displayed stock.” and good presentation years or so ago clearly an all-importantis when he was just 13. neatly-displayed stock.” factor clearlycontributing an all-important when hehas waslearned just 13. to the Andrew factor contributing to the Andrew has learned company’s professionalism. the business from company’s professionalism. the business from From springtime there are attractive the ground up – initially sweeping the From springtime there are attractive the ground floor up – through initially sweeping the hanging baskets of flowers displayed warehouse the various stages hanging baskets of flowers displayed warehouse floorto through the various stages on the well-maintained shop-front, of development his prominent position on the shop-front, of development to his prominent position and thewell-maintained company’s identity appears there today. All the fitters are employed by and the company’s appears there Allwith the fitters employed on clear van signageidentity and there’s T Nutttoday. & Sons, manyare of them givingby on clear van signage and there’s T Nutt & Sons, with many of them giving a smart uniform for all staff. loyal service for over twenty years. a smart forofall staff.from satisfied loyal for and overmajor twenty years.

Withuniform hundreds letters Asservice members shareholders in With hundreds of letters from satisfied membersCarpets and major in customers on display, the foundation of T theAs Greendale and shareholders Flooring Group, customers onbusiness display, the foundation of T the Greendale Carpets Flooring Group, Nutt & Sons’ is based on glowing T Nutt & Sons can offerand its customers the Nutt & Sons’ businessrecommendations. is based on glowing T Nutt & Sonsofcan offer its of customers the reports and personal widest range collection carpets, vinyl, reports and personal“We recommendations. widest range of collection of carpets, vinyl, David concludes, always aim to be wood, Karndean and laminate flooring – David concludes, “We aim to be wood, Karndean and laminate flooring – the best. Despite stockingalways the highest-quality all at the very best competitive prices. the best.laminates, Despite stocking the highest-quality all at the its very bestdays competitive carpets, real wood flooring and From early in 1962 toprices. the present carpets, laminates, realleading wood flooring and From its early in 1962Carpets to the present Karndean from all the manufacturers membership, the days Greendale and Karndean from all the leading manufacturers membership, the Greendale Carpets and Flooring Group has progressed from what was we are competitively priced in comparison competitively priced comparison Flooring Group hastoprogressed from what was we withare other retail outlets.

We in use quality an exclusive ‘club’ a nationwide association an exclusive ‘club’ to a nationwide association with other retail outlets. We use quality 56 Reflections April 2019 40 | www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk 56 Reflections April 2019

The well-stocked and superblyThe well-stocked superblypresented T Nutt and & Sons showroom presented T Nutt & Sons showroom

underlay all the time. Our service is better underlay all the time.

Ourgot service is better than advertising.

You’ve to be involved than advertising.

You’ve got to be involved with the customers.

We visit them to explain with the where customers.

We visit toto explain in detail any seams arethem going be in detail where any seams are going to be We and encourage them to take out samples. andonly encourage them to take out not get repeat business fromsamples. existingWe not only getbut repeat business customers, we also get a from lot ofexisting business customers, but weas also getGeneration a lot of business from their friends well. from their friendsofas well.

Generation after generation the same family keep after generation of the same coming back to us time after family time.” keep MS coming back to us time after time.” MS T Nutt & Sons T NuttHigh & Sons 43-47 Street 43-47 High Clay Cross Street Clay Cross Chesterfield Chesterfield S45 9DX S45 9DX 863148 T: 01246 T: 01246 863148 www.nutt.co.uk www.nutt.co.uk To advertise call 01246 550488 To advertise call 01246 550488

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At Cleeve Joinery we work regularly for a wide range of domestic, commercial & industrial clients. The company is recognised as resourceful, highly competent & innovative contractor with the resources & expertise capable of tackling any project, regardless of size, complexity or speed.

As well as more prestigious projects, Cleeve Joinery also undertakes successful development work for smaller scale, commercial, domestic & industrial projects. The consistently high standard of our specialist joinery work has won us the confidence & continued support of many local clients.

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www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk | 41 57 Reflections April 2019

RHS Chatsworth Flower Show 5-9 June 2019

Brian Spencer looks back on 2018 when describing what will be on offer in 2019

N

Unlike Show Gardens at Chelsea, those at Chatsworth are far more practical, giving ideas for what can be created in the average domestic plot.

ow in its third year at Chatsworth, the Royal Horticultural Society’s (RHS) newest Show, RHS Chatsworth Flower Show partnered by Wedgwood Pottery will return to the magnificent 1,000acre Chatsworth Estate.

Following the popularity of 2018 themes, the show will be bursting with exciting new content including a mass planting of thousands of Dahlia (Dalina Maxi) ‘Salinas’; an impressive Power of Trees feature and a spectacular floral immersion experience, to wow visitors and thrill the senses.

The main theme of this year’s show celebrates the five senses of horticulture with the taste and smell of edible herbs, plants and flowers, the touch of a variety of natural textures, the sight of high summer colours and the sound of bees, grasses and tree listening.

Inspired by the resounding success of last year’s Cosmos display when banks of that delicately colourful flower complimented the warm hues of the freshly cleaned stone of Chatsworth’s venerable walls, a mass planting of thousands of dahlias will create a striking vision of lilac and white. Designed to echo the iconic parterres of Chatsworth House, visitors will be able to walk amongst the blooms to fully enjoy the beauty of this vibrant summer flower.

Well placed alongside Chatsworth’s magnificent woodlands, the important role trees play within our world will be explored in the new Power of

42 | www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk

Trees feature, showcasing some of the great ways trees enhance our lives. Derbyshire Wildlife Trust, RSPB and Forestry Commission will showcase the vital and extensive role that trees have in our lives.

Visitors will be encouraged to plant them at home in a bid to help battle climate change. There’ll be a tree nursery, storytelling, woodland crafts, carving, arborist talks and even tree listening in this exciting new zone. A virtual reality experience created by 3D expert and VR designer, Simon Mabey will engage visitors further in tree display as they experience the wonder of wildlife from the trunk to the treetop.

Unlike show gardens at Chelsea, often far more suitable for the entrance to a top company’s head office foyer, those at Chatsworth are far more practical, giving ideas for what can be created in the average domestic plot. One of the highlights will include a show garden inspired by one of the RHS founders, John Wedgwood in ‘The Wedgwood Garden’ by horticulturalist and RHS Ambassador Jamie Butterworth. This colourful garden celebrates the power of horticulture and plants to connect people and unite communities.

A special feature ‘The Brewin Dolphin Artists’ Garden’ will showcase the skills of a variety of artists from across the UK, including textile art, Japanese porcelain and basket weaving. Many of the themed gardens should give ideas for someone wanting to transform a domestic plot into a feature that will

give pleasure and pride to its maker for years to come.

If last year is anything to go by, there will be no over the top designs, such as the upside-down monstrosity one year, or concrete blocks rather than flowers.

Local BBC listeners can see their station’s winning designs, the results of a competition across radio waves of the east Midlands. Judged by award winning designer Lee Bestall, the region is represented by three winners: BBC Radio Derby’s Haydon Vernon’s – ‘The Brewery Garden’ uses water as the theme which helped make Burton Upon Trent a prosperous brewing town. BBC Radio Sheffield’s Emily Barnes’ – ‘Elements of Sheffield’ celebrates the links the city has with the nearby Peak District. BBC Radio Stoke’s Colin and Mary Bielby’s – ‘An Imagined Miner’s Garden’ commemorates the Minnie Pit disaster on 12 January 1918 when 155 men and boys were killed – 2019 marks the 100 years since the last body was taken out of the mine in 1919.

Experts will be speaking in the Potting Bench and Dig theatres at advertised times, alongside commercial growers on individual stands. Not to be missed will be the Floral Marquee bursting with the best on offer from 80 growers and nurseries throughout Britain; included alongside these will be RHS Chatsworth’s Master Grower Pennard Plants. There’s shopping galore and great community and schools competitions; there will be something for everyone at the RHS Chatsworth Flower Show from 5-9 June.

www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk | 43

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www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk | 45

Gardening in May with Mark

I

Smith

don’t want to jinx it, but we have been very lucky with the weather with many sunny spells so far. So, being able to start early is always welcome in gardening .

This is a slight departure to my normal gardening edit, but as the good weather is potentially just around the corner I thought it was the perfect time to remind you when you are out in the garden to wear sun screen or clothing that will protect you from the sun. Not the first thing people think about while gardening but sun protection should be part of your gardening equipment. Look out for the R.H.S. Chelsea Flower Show this month, I wish I was going.

Allotment or Vegetable Patch: · Feed strawberries as they are forming fruit, with a liquid tomato fertiliser or powder sulphate of potash. · Earth up potatoes by moving soil or compost up around their stems. · Hang pheromone traps in apple and plum to control pests. · Remember to pick rhubarb as they develop and water clumps with liquid feed. · Remove strawberry “runners” as soon as they grow – they take nutrients from the mother plant. Pot up runners in plant pots to make extra plants to plant up in the autumn. · Feed fruit trees and bushes with sulphate of potash. · Watch for signs of powdery mildew on fruit trees and bushes and treat with a fungicide. · Plant out crops raised under glass, such as tomatoes, marrows and courgettes. · Prevent birds from eating your soft fruit by covering small bushes with netting.

In the Greenhouse: · Remember to properly ventilate your

· · · · · ·

greenhouse, poor air circulation can encourage disease.

Keep a look out for pests, check under leaves and new shoots for signs of attack – usually red spider mite, whitefly or greenfly Try hanging sticky traps over plants to catch any whitefly.

Important to water growbags and pots regularly, sometimes daily if needed in very warm weather.

Pinch out the centre of any cuttings to promote bushy growth Liquid feed any planted up hanging baskets.

General Garden Maintenance: · Still a great time to sow new lawns with grass seed. – remembering to water well if there is a lack of rain. · Rake out any dead grass from lawns. · Feed the lawn with a suitable lawn fertiliser. · Check for daisies and dandelions, and dig out. · Plant out container grown trees and shrubs - remembering to water well if there is a lack of rain. · Tie in any new growth of climbing plants,

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such as honeysuckle and clematis etc. · Buy a water butt to collect any rainfall to use later. · Buy a compost bin to recycle any green waste from the kitchen and garden. · Apply bark mulches around newly planted or established trees and shrubs to retain moisture and help suppress weeds. · Sprinkle a handful of sulphate of potash around fruit trees and bushes. · Give camellias, rhododendrons, azaleas and pieris a good handful of ericaceous (acidic) fertiliser. · Clip hedges and apply a granular fertiliser · Keep topiary in check by giving a light clip now. · Hand weed beds to prevent weeds establishing. · Watch out for red lilly beetle on the leaves of lilies. You can easily squash any you find or spray with a suitable pesticide like Provado Ultimate Bug Killer. · Apply teak oil to wooden garden furniture to condition and improve the look of it for summer. · Look out for greenfly and blackfly developing on shrubs, perennials and roses, spray with a pesticide.

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Scabious ‘Blue Mist / Pink Butterfly”

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

Steve Orme interviews

Sergei Podobedov

…a Russian-born classical pianist who’s given concerts all over the world – and he’s living in Belper.

www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk | 55

A

strand of his wispy hair falls over bushy eyebrows as Sergei Podobedov, dressed in a dark T-shirt and casual trousers, makes coffee. There’s nothing unusual about his demeanour as he goes about everyday tasks without taking undue care of his hands.

But this isn’t a manual labourer or someone who’s been thrust into the uppermost echelons of celebrity without having a talent. This is a Russian-born classical pianist who’s given concerts all over the world – and he’s living in Belper.

He admits he doesn’t do any heavy lifting. Otherwise he just gets on with life, paying little attention to the dynamic digits that have catapulted him to the top of his profession. His hands aren’t even insured.

I first came across Sergei when some friends invited my wife and I to a concert he was giving last September at the Strutts Centre in Belper where he also practises. Everyone who experienced it was captivated by his dexterity, natural ability and mastery of the piano. I also wondered how someone with his virtually unparalleled talent had made his home in

“It’s really nice here. Everybody is so friendly – it’s a different world.”

56 | www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk

Derbyshire and was playing at the former Herbert Strutt School.

“I don’t know. It has something to do with the laws of the universe!” he told me.

“I had a studio in London but I had to move because the house was going on sale. I wanted a change. So a friend in Bonsall invited me to stay on her farm for a couple of months.

“I thought ‘I really like it here’ and eventually I ended up with friends who invited me to stay long-term. It’s all their fault!”

During our chat 46-year-old Sergei laughs a lot. He speaks confidently and eloquently. On occasions he takes his time answering questions but that’s not because he has problems with the language; he’s

thinking deeply about what he wants to say.

He’s obviously content in his new surroundings which are unlike London: “It’s really nice here. Everybody is so friendly – it’s a different world.”

When he was in the capital he enjoyed practising at night. He can do the same in Belper. But if you drive past the Strutts Centre in the early hours, don’t expect to see lights on in the building when he’s playing his piano – he likes to practise in the dark.

“If you see lights it’s probably because someone forgot to switch them off ! But to me the atmosphere in this building is very positive.

He says those who attended last September’s concert were “fantastic”. They were “a very warm audience and I feel that I’m somehow useful to the community, which for me is important.”

The programme included Beethoven’s Piano Sonata No 14, the “Moonlight” Sonata, as well as Schumann and Chopin. He maintains that he tries to practise “as efficiently as possible” and doesn’t want to do too much.

But he confesses he had to work hard on the Chopin Mazurka that he played for an encore.

“It’s a very short piece, it’s very simple. But basically I practised the last two lines for a whole night. I sat down around one o’clock in the morning and by the time I felt that I owned those last two lines, I think it was around nine. But then once you’ve done that you own the piece.”

Sergei Podobedov was born in 1972, growing up in Moscow and spending three summer months in a Black Sea resort. He started playing the piano when he was five or six.

“My mother was a first violin in one of the major orchestras in the Soviet Union. I grew up in an orchestra because she took me to all the rehearsals and concerts. And I listened to a lot of records when I was a kid.

“I was fond of every possible instrument. I think she was a bit apprehensive when I was near the violin because she always said it’s torture for a child to start playing it.”

He chuckles loudly before explaining what drew him to the piano. “I went to a concert where my mother’s orchestra was playing. There was Tchaikovsky’s Piano Concerto No 1 on the programme and I came back home and started listening to it obsessively.

“My uncle came for my birthday and he brought a recording of the concerto by Emil Gilels (regarded as one of the greatest pianists of the 20th century). He told me ‘this is better than the pianist you are listening to’.

“I listened to it and I didn’t like it at first. But after listening to it a few times I thought ‘it is better!’ Gilels has amazing sound which was uniquely his own. In terms of musical breath it was completely different.

Other recordings weren’t so alive.

Six years later, in 1990, he came to London to study at the Royal College of Music which he describes as a “great experience”. He and another pianist were the first two Russians ever to study at the College.

Its patron was the Queen Mother who that year celebrated her 90th birthday. Sergei played for her and was invited back the following year to do a joint concert with Sir John Gielgud who read poetry. It’s another event which Sergei remembers as being “very special”.

Since then Sergei has played all over the world including the United States, Paris and, surprisingly, Turkey where he says audiences for classical music are “amazing”.

He has performed at London’s Wigmore Hall, the Tchaikovsky Hall in Russia and Herbst Theater in San Francisco, among others, so does he get nervous?

“It depends what you call nervous. It’s a feeling that you have to do something but you want to do it. Generally in life sometimes I get too focused; I can get too focused on one thing in particular which might not necessarily matter. But when there’s a concert coming up I have to not be like that which makes me happy also. So overall it’s a positive experience!”

Sergei has a few things which he says are “amazing” that are lined up for the future. They include The Voice and The Hands, a Belper Arts Festival event at St Peter’s Church, Belper with Irish classical crossover soprano Margaret Keys on 9 May. He also has dates coming up at Haddon Hall on 2 June and the Crooked Spire, Chesterfield on 7 June.

“I have to say that for the moment I’m doing what I want to be doing as far as performing is concerned,” says Sergei whose repertoire has included improvised solo recitals and playing a lot of jazz which is “a great art form”.

He also returns to London every couple of weeks to give private tuition and he may develop this in the future.

“I find myself thinking more and more about helping other young musicians with my experience. So maybe at some point I will take up a class at a conservatory somewhere. For the moment, if I’m playing, then I’m happy.”

Sergei has a few things which he says are “amazing” that are lined up for the future. They include The Voice and The Hands, a Belper Arts Festival event at St Peter’s Church, Belper with Irish classical crossover soprano Margaret Keys on 9 May. He also has dates coming up at Haddon Hall on 2 June and the Crooked Spire, Chesterfield on 7 June.

Anyone who has seen Sergei Podobedov playing in Belper will be happy too that this incredibly talented individual swopped the metropolis of Moscow for the delights of Derbyshire.

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“Since then I’ve heard many recordings of the concerto.

Some of them are great but there’s still nothing like Gilels. I guess you can’t really explain it but it will always remain something very special.”

Sergei made his orchestral debut when he was 12.

Shortly afterwards he went to the Moscow Central School of Music. “We got a sense of what it’s like to be on tour and what it’s like to play on all sorts of instruments in all sorts of circumstances. It was fun.”

61 Saltergate, Chesterfield, Derbyshire, S40 1UJ | 01246 207623 alanclarke130@gmail.com | Open: Mon – Sat 9am-5pm

www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk | 57

IMAGES WALK: Thor’s Cave & The Manifold Valley 7 miles (11km): moderate trail and field-paths. Two steep climbs. Muddy sections.

RECOMMENDED MAP: Ordnance Survey 1:25000 scale Outdoor Leisure Sheet 24, The Peak District, White Peak Area.

BUS SERVICES: None beyond Hulme End. CAR PARKING: At Wetton Mill.

REFRESHMENTS: at Wetton Mill café.

T

its passenger trade was never enough to make the railway pay its way and, as a result the service closed down in the 1930s. With foresight the local authority took over the remaining track bed and turned it into an all-weather trail for walkers and cyclists.

his walk criss-crosses the Manifold Valley, climbing its steep sides twice along the way. The Manifold seems to be lesser known than its more popular neighbour, Dovedale, but this factor, if nothing else should encourage walkers to explore its beauties.

For thirty years from almost the beginning of the twentieth century, a light railway followed the valley bottom all the way from Hulme End to Waterhouses on the Leek/ Ashbourne road.

An exciting diversion early in the walk climbs up to Thor’s Cave where hyenas and sabre-toothed tigers had their lairs in pre-historic times.

Later when Neolithic people came along, they used the cave as their home in times of danger. Centuries later on, during the unsettled years following the retreat of Roman administrators back to their homeland, the cave offered a safe place for Britons left behind in order to hold out against marauding land grabbers. Hidden treasure has been found in the area of the Manifold Valley.

Toy-like locomotives with huge headlamps below their tall funnels, hauled attractive yellow-liveried coaches three or four times a day up and down the dale. Originally intended to move milk in churns from farms in the upper valley, its business was soon taken over by road transport and although still popular with walkers and sightseers,

Norma Gent Derbyshire Artist

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58 | www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk

THE IDEAL GIFT

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The walk starts and finishes at Wetton Mill, the only source of refreshment along the way. Originally waterpowered the mill ground corn for the inhabitants of farms and villages on the surrounding uplands. Now owned by the National Trust, Wetton Mill is a popular stopping place for walkers and cyclists alike. Leaving the mill, the route follows the Manifold Trail as far as a footbridge on the left, crossing the frequently dry river bed at this point. A steep climb reaches Thor’s Cave before returning to turn left along the trail.

This is then followed, swinging right with it to follow the River Hamps, upstream past a caravan site. After about half of a mile, a stile on the right is crossed before climbing a path, uphill to Grindon. Field paths following a side stream lead back down to the valley bottom and a left turn along the trail back to Wetton Mill.

orma Gent is now taking commissions. She will create a unique piece of art which will remind you of a family pet, special place, or treasured memory.

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OUT NOW: Walk Derbyshire 2019. 14 New walks around this beautiful county. www.walkderbyshire.co.uk T: 01773 830344

3. Look out for a footbridge on your left and cross it to climb up to Thor’s Cave, returning to the trail in order to continue the walk.

The portal of Thor’s Cave makes an excellent frame for the view across the dale. Bram Stoker, author of ‘Dracula’, used Thor’s Cave as the imaginary setting for his lesser known work, ‘The Lair of the White Worm’.

A film made in 1988 loosely based on the novel used the cave in the dramatic blood-drenched opening sequences.

4. Retrace your steps back down into the dale and re-join the trail. Turn left and follow it for a little over a mile, crossing Weag’s Bridge along the way.

7. Follow the path, uphill roughly parallel to the trail and then bear leftwards still going steeply uphill.

16. Entering National Trust woodland at Ladyside, cross stiles all the way downhill back to the Manifold Valley Trail.

17. Turn left along the trail and follow it for a little under a mile, as far as Wetton Mill.

Rambler

To Hulme End & Hartington

Butterton

START To Wetton Darfar Wetton Bridge Mill

s indles

The R

Thors Cave

Grindon

Buckfurlong Farm

8. Go through a gate beside the muddy remains of a pond and continue by path uphill with a wall on your right. Aim for the prominent spire of Grindon church dead ahead roughly a mile away.

To Ilam

ps

R

9. Keep to the left of Buckfurlong Farm and out along the farm road.

10. Continue along a walled path, then right and immediately left when you reach the public road. Follow this lane as far as Grindon church. – No

15. Still going downhill keeping the stream and a wood on your right.

12. From the church go back down the side lane, almost to the road and turn

5. Where the Manifold is joined by the River Hamps, turn left to follow the trail, upstream along the Haps as far as a bridge over the river.

6. Do not cross the bridge, but turn right and cross a stile.

14. Go through stiles and cross a field, heading downhill towards a stream (the ‘rindle’). Cross it by a footbridge and bear right.

In 1862 the lord of the manor of Grindon went to Staffordshire Assizes in order to establish the rights of the rindle below the village. A ‘rindle’ is an intermittently flowing stream, why the squire should go to the expense of making such a claim on a very minor stream, albeit one which can dry up from time to time is unrecorded, but it was so important to him that he placed a stone making this claim near the church gate.

old

The River Manifold at this point frequently begins to disappear below ground, following a series of fissures downstream almost to Ilam.

13. left on to a field path (signposted).

anif

2. Cross the Wetton/Butterton road at Dafar Bridge and continue along the trail for about half a mile,

11. refreshments, but the village and its church are well worth exploring.

RM

1. From Wetton Mill turn left along the trail (surfaced).

am

H

To Waterhouses & Ashbourne Road

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Diary of Events diary@imagespublishing.co.uk Royal Centre Nottingham & Concert Hall 0115 989 5555 www.trch.co.uk

Derby Live. Box Office 01332 255800 www.derbylive.co.uk

MAY 1 The Vamps: Four Corners Tour 3 City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra 3 After Hours: Richard Uttley and Kate Whitley 3 The Third Stage - John Hegley: Peace, Love & Potatoes 5 The Kingdom Choir 6 Marc Almond 7-11 Mack and Mabel 7-8 Strictly Come Dancing The Professionals 12 Danny Baker: Good Time Charlie’s Back 13-18 Educating Rita 13 UB40: 40th Anniversary Tour 15b Aida 16 Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment 17 An Evening With Katherine Jenkins 20-25 The Girl on the Train 20-25 Annie 23 Live at Lunch: Fruzsina Szücs and Louis Perera 27-28 Zog 27 May - 08 Jun 2019 31 The Guilty Feminist: Live JUNE 4 Sophie Ellis Bextor: The Song Diaries 5 The Hallé - June 2019 6 Ministry of Sound - The Annual Classical 7 Steve Steinman’s Anything for Love - The Meat Loaf Story

MAY 1-2 Two 2 3 Cara Dillon 4 The Bump to Five Derby Show 4 Bedazzled by Broadway 4 Paul Kerensa 5 Resolution Run 5 Sarah McQuaid 8 Flook - The flutes of Brian Finnegan and Sarah Allen, the guitar of Ed Boyd and the bodhran of John Joe Kelly.

9-11 Little Ed Fringe Festival 9 Margaret Keys & Sergei Podobedov 10 Sam Avery 11 Sounds Like The Seekers 12 May Fest ‘Derby Arboretum’s Village Fayre’ 15 A Cartoon History of Here - This event is promoted by Belper Arts Festival.

16 FastLove - The Arena Tour 17 Elvis Tribute Artist World Tour 17 Mike McClean – Return of the Mac 18 Derby Vegan Market 18-28 Derby Cathedral Tower Tour 18 Fall Down Dead- by Stephen Booth 18 Ray Bradshaw: Deaf Comedy Fam 18 Rollover Beethoven, Here Comes Brahms!

19 Killer Queen 19 Spring Craft Fair 19 Rhod Gilbert 23 Bearded Theory Festival 2019 23 Mark Beaumont. Mark Beaumont set out to make this Victorian fiction a two wheeled reality.

24 Jim Moray JUNE 1 John Tams and Barry Coope 2 The Big 1 - Derby’s annual summer family fun day for all to enjoy 3 An evening of poetry with Rupinder Kaur and Nafeesa Hamid 4 Edward Lear’s Stuff and Nonsense 6 Bill Bailey

Buxton Opera House & PavilionArts Centre.

01298 72190 www.buxtonoperahouse.org MAY 2 Remembering The Movies 3 Puss in Boots 3 Buxton Buzz Comedy Club - May 4 Wet Wet Wet 5 Julian Clary 6The Little Mix Experience 7 Tubular Bells For Two 7 Anna McNuff & George Mahood Riding high in South America 8 Levellers Acoustic 9 The King Of Pop Starring Navi with special guest Jennifer Batten 10 Leo Sayer: Just A Boy at 70 10-11 Buxton Drama League Bedroom Farce 12 Chris Dean’s Syd Lawrence Orchestra The Big Band Spectacular 14 All My Sons By Arthur Miller 14 The Horne Section That’s How I Like My Tour 15 Jools Holland & his Rhythm & Blues Orchestra 16Wallace & Gromit’s Musical Marvels 16 The Fureys 17 Red Hot Chilli Pipers 18 The Magic of Motown Celebrating the sound of a generation 24 to June 9 Oliver!

24 Mary Portas in Conversation - The Work Like A Woman Tour 30 to June 8 Rent

60 60 || CountryImagesMagazine.co.uk www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk

Derby Theatre Box Office 01332 59 39 39 www.derbytheatre.co.uk Book early for this Sept 7-28 One Man, Two Guvnors Richard Bean’s hilarious smash-hit comedy.

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MAY 5 Sam Sweeney - The Unfinished Violin 7-11 Turn of the Screw 10-11 Five Kinds of Silence 12The Ronnie Scott’s Story.

14 Ballet Black: Triple Bill featuring Ingoma 15-16 Jasper Carrott’s Stand Up And Rock 17-18 The Pillowman 17 Kate Rusby 2019 19 An Evening With Andy Hamilton 24 - 25 1984 28 Puss In Boots 30 Brainiac Live! Science Abuse

30 The BonBons Cabaret On Tour 31See-Through 31 Ruby Wax: How to be Human JUNE 2 Flaming Beats 6 Open Mic 7 Derby Book Festival: Melvyn Bragg in conversation Derby Book Festival welcomes broadcaster, author and parliamentarian, Melvyn Bragg (Lord Bragg of Wigton) to their fifth Festival.

Nottingham Playhouse 0115 941 9419 www.nottinghamplayhouse.co.uk MAY 3-18 The Memory of Water - The Memory of Water is a hilarious and heart-breaking drama about what we fear most – losing someone both in life and death.

4 Its a Trap: The Improvised Star Wars Show 9 Out-spoken May 2019 11 Mathilda and the Orange Balloon Mathilda is a little grey sheep in a little grey world. Her herd is content to munch clovers, but Mathilda’s mind is full of questions. When an orange balloon makes a surprise appearance on the farm, Mathilda discovers there is more to who she is than being a grey sheep!

14-18 The Party Somewhere Else Festival 16 Kill The Princess 17 Sing Me A Story 17-18 Greyscale 17 Ladykiller 18 Island Home 18 DadMan: The Bathtime Warrior 18 Margo and Mr Whatsit 18 Shelley Draper is Camilla, Cat and Jules 24 Paul Merton’s Impro Chums. Comedy: Paul Merton and friends flex their improvisational muscles to delight and entertain audiences in this country and abroad.

25-26 Gedling Ballet School Show 2019 28 Ben Macintyre Live 29 Mary Portas - In Conversation JUNE 1 Sourpuss Family Friendly: Sourpuss is a very grumpy, ginger cat. When shut out of the house he feels lost and confused, but the beautiful garden soon intrigues him.

Palace Theatre Mansfield www.mansfield.gov.uk/palacetheatre MAY 7 Jason Donovan & His Amazing Midlife Crisis Neil Sands Productions 8-9 How To Live Forever 8 Mugenkyo Taiko DrummersDrummin 13-14 Ben & Holly’s Little Kingdom 16 Totally Tina 2019 17 Queens of Rock with Guitar Godz 2019 19 The Margot Fonteyn Celebration 21 Sherlock Holmes: Sign of Four 22 Sentimental Journey - Neil Sands Productions Variety JUNE 4 Northern Ballet

An Evening with Katherine Jenkins

Friday 17 May, 7.30pm Royal Concert Hall Britain’s best-selling classical artist of the last 25 years, Katherine Jenkins OBE is celebrating the release of her new album Guiding Light with a new tour coming to Nottingham in May. The album includes 15 brand new tracks featuring Katherine’s personal favourites new and old; from the time honoured Make Me a Channel of Your Peace and Morning Has Broken to covers of Stormzy’s Blinded By Your Grace and Never Enough from The Greatest Showman, alongside original material including Xander’s Song, written for the newest addition to her family, her son born earlier this year.

Katherine will be joined by one of the UK’s most versatile orchestras, The London Concert Orchestra, under Musical Director Anthony Inglis for the majority of the tour.

Tubular Bells For Two

Buxton Opera House Tue 7 May, 7:30pm One Album. Two Men. Too Many Instruments.

Two blokes juggle over 20 instruments live on stage in a spellbinding performance. A multiaward winning sell-out hit at festivals around the world, Tubular Bells for Two is returning to tour the UK. Ask anyone who grew up through the 70s and they will be able to tell you exactly where they were when they first heard Tubular Bells. Composed by Mike Oldfield in 1973, the album was the first release on Richard Branson's fledgling record label, Virgin Records. The album went on to sell over 30 million copies - kick-starting the Virgin empire - and became the soundtrack to the cult-classic film, The Exorcist.

Now, 45 years on, two multi-instrumentalists are presenting this modern masterpiece in a challenging live event. With only two men on stage performing every part live with only four hands and four feet between them. The duo are literally rushed off their feet as they dash around a sea of instruments. It is an intricately choreographed, thrilling piece of tightrope theatre. Things can go wrong at any moment, and the slightest mistake or misplaced limb can bring the entire show crashing to a halt.

Regardless of whether you're a Tubular Bells virgin, or long-time fan, Tubular Bells for Two is guaranteed to keep you on the edge of your seat. It is one of the most innovative musical performances to grace the stage in many years.

Kate Rusby

returns to Derby Theatre on May 17th Of all the stars in Folk Music’s wondrous firmament, few shine as brightly as Yorkshire’s Kate Rusby. A career which spans over 25 years in music showcases her as one of the finest interpreters of traditional folk songs and one of our most emotive original songwriters.

Forever proud to call herself a folk singer, Kate’s beautiful, expressive vocals never fail to connect the emotional heart of a song to that of her audience. The crossover appeal Kate enjoys is unprecedented for a folk singer and has been achieved without resort to compromise. Rusby’s wondrous singing and hugely engaging Yorkshire wit, and the intuitive support of the band ensure that audiences will be treated to a truly remarkable and unforgettable concert experience.

Audiences are sure to be thoroughly entertained by Kate’s choice of much-loved classics from her back catalogue stretching over her two decades of music making together with a selection of fresh new songs from her album due for release 2019. As ever, she will be joined on stage by the cream of British folk musicians who form her select band. These virtuoso artists are sure to delight you with their exceptional talents.

Belper Arts Festival Charity Concert

Saturday, 1 June – 7.30pm

The grand finally of Belper Arts Festival culminates with a unique Charity Concert at St Peter’s Church on Saturday, 1 June, 7.30pm. Performing are the highly acclaimed Derbyshire Duo John Tams & Barry Coope winners of “Best Duo” at the BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards.

John Tams’ musical and acting career spans over 50 years, from playing in the local folk clubs to becoming Musical Director at the National Theatre. He regularly appears on TV screens in various guises, noticeably, Rifleman, Daniel Hagman, in the Sharpe TV Series, which appears to be one of the most repeated shows on TV. Alongside playing at concerts and festivals, he has been the Song Maker for the long-running National Theatre production of “War Horse”.

Barry Coope for 25 years has been a member of the iconic trio, “Coope, Boyes & Simpson” who were by far the best a cappella group on the British Folk scene, and were noted for their peace concerts in Belgium. Among their best selling albums was “In Flanders Fields” a 2-CD album paying homage to the music and songs of WW1. Since the trios’ retirement in 2018 Barry has become a member of the newly formed Derby Band “Narthen” who have just released their first CD, which is receiving excellent reviews in the Folk Press.

St Peter’s Church, Belper. Tickets are available from Derby LIVE Box Office 01332 255800, www.derbylive.co.uk or the PR Ticket Hotline 01773 853428.

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Diary of Events diary@imagespublishing.co.uk Birdwatching for Beginners walks at Carsington Water.

From May onwards the summer visitors will continue to arrive, swallows swifts and martins as well as hosts of warblers, plus there’s always a chance to see a passing Osprey. 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 are, 5th May, 2nd June, 7th July, 4th August.

Spondon Historical Society Spondon Village Hall, Sitwell Street Spondon, DE21 7FG, on Monday May 13th at 7.30pm for an evening with Peter Castle, on ‘Folk Songs of Derby And Derbyshire’ Peter is a nationally known folk singer and story teller from Derbyshire. All are welcome. Visitors £4.00, Members £2.50’ Little Chester Local History Group Thursday May 16th at 7.30 p.m. in Chester Green Community Centre, Old Chester Road, Derby, Paul Newsham will talk to us about Kedleston Church - a local landmark. Admission non-members £2. 01332 559615 Little Chester Heritage Centre, St. Paul’s Church. Mansfield Road, Derby - On Sunday April 7th 2-4p.m. you can see our exhibition of Roman history and a special display re-telling the story of War Memorials. Free admission, refreshments available. Tel. 01332 363354.

Darley Abbey Historical Group Friday 17 May Mastermind’ by David Down All meetings start at 7pm and are held in Darley Abbey Village Hall, Abbey Yard off New Road, Darley Abbey, DE22 1DS There is a charge of £1.50. For further information contact Maria Gibson on 01332 552837 To find out more about the Historical Group, take a look at their blog: https://darleyabbeyhistoricalgroup.wordpress. com/ Music at Duffield presents Beate Toyka (piano). Saturday 11 May 2019 at 7.30pm.

St. Alkmund’s Church, Church Drive (off Makeney Road), Duffield DE56 4BA Bach Pieces for Anna Magdalena Beethoven Für Elise, Sonata Op. 10 No. 3 Schubert/Liszt Ständchen Schumann/Liszt Widmung Schumann Fantasie C major Op. 17 Clara Schumann Variations on a theme by Robert Schumann Op. 20 Chopin Bolero and Ballade No. 4

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Beate Toyka trained at Cologne Conservatoire and the Royal Academy of Music where she was a prize winner. Her solo career has taken her to venues in Europe, Africa and South America.

She is coach and accompanist for Nottingham University and has been on the staff at the Chetham’s Summer School for Pianists. 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 please visit our website www. musicatduffield.com

The Midas Touch. Time 7oclock Venue The Wilmot Street Welfare Centre. Wilmot Street Heanor.

Everyone Welcome visitors £5. For further details Telephone 01332 880179.

Plant Hunters’ Fair at Carsington Water Carsington Water, Big Lane, Ashbourne, Derbyshire DE6 1ST (01629 540696) Bank Holiday Monday 27th May 10am – 4pm FREE entry to Plant Fair and Country Park (charge to park)

The Heage Committee of Action Medical Research .

Annual Garden Party Sunday 19 May. 57 Ripley Road, Heage. Gates open 12.30 (£1 adults, 50p children). Contact Liz on 01773 824442 or 07443464619 or Jean on 01773 744135.

Derby Chamber Music Society Friday 26th April at 7.30pm at the Multi-Faith Centre, University of Derby, Kedleston Road, Derby, DE22 1GB A concert by the Marmen String Quartet Haydn: String Quartet in C, Op.74 No.1 Glass: String Quartet No.3 Beethoven: String Quartet in A minor, Op.132 Tickets £15 and £14 (concessions) 01332 830585 or visit www.derbychambermusic.org

Dethick, Lea & Holloway Horticultural Society Annual Spring Plant Sale Saturday 11h May at the Florence Nightingale Memorial Hall, Yew Tree Hill, Holloway, near Matlock, DE4 5BD. A good selection of plants for sale, bedding, hardy perennials, tender perennials, salad, herb and vegetable plants. Entry is free – doors open at 10am until 12noon.

Derby RSPB Sunday 26 May A FREE Birdwatching Walk At Padley Gorge, Derbyshire. Meet at 9.30am in the lane leading down to Grindleford Station car park, pay and display. A three hour walk through wonderful mature oakwoods at this favourite spot for Redstart, Pied Flycatcher and Wood Warbler. There are some steep sections on the walk so good footwear is an essential for your comfort and safety. It is optional if you wish to continue the walk in the afternoon, along the Burbage valley and Edge with the hope of seeing Ring Ouzel. Toilets and cafe at Grindleford or Longshaw, bring a packed lunch. In the afternoon we will move the cars to Longshaw (National Trust). More details on the RSPB Derby local group website www.rspb.org.uk/groups/derby Derby A Cappella Derby Arts Festival - Sat 04 May St John The Evangelist Church, Bridge Street Derby DE1 1DY Buxton Festival - Sat 11 May 2019.

Broomfield College NGS Day - Sun 19 May 2019.

Please come along and give us your support you will be most welcome, we are sure you will enjoy the experience. If you would like us to sing at an event in 2019, or would like to come to a rehearsal contact. www.derbyacappella.co.uk Heanor Floral Art Group .

Monday 20th May flower demonstration by Sharon Badger from Market Harborough entitled

Ashfield Harmony, ‘Swing Into Spring’ with Ashfield Harmony and Ravenshead Swing Band will be at The Ashwood Centre, Portland Road, Kirkby-inAshfield, Notts on Saturday 11th May starting at 7.00 pm. Tickets £8 each and can be obtained from any choir member or reserved by calling Concert Secretary, Carolynne, on 01773775176.

Derbyshire Dales Woodcraft Club Meets in Wyaston village hall (DE6 2DR) on the first Saturday of each month from 10:00am to 2:00pm. A mixed programme of visiting demonstrators, hands-on sessions under the guidance of more experienced members and a monthly competition.

4th. May 2019 - Professional woodturner Emma Cook aka “The Tiny Turner” 4th. June 2019 - Our Open Day! Come along (free entry), see the various crafts on display and perhaps have a go yourself (subject to age restrictions). Hand made wood items for sale.

Visit www.ddwc.co.uk where you can see reports with photos on previous meetings, including competition results, and read past newsletters.

If you would like to know more about the club, email your query to info@ddwc.co.uk or phone James Sharpe on 01335 344933.

FOLK AND ACOUSTIC MUSIC IN DERBYSHIRE 5 May Sunday, 6pm The Unfinished Violin - Sam Sweeney, and his band. Music from the highly acclaimed show “Made In The Great War” Derby Theatre - Tickets £22.50, Concessions £20.50.

Box Office 01332 593939.

21 May Tuesday, 8pm. Midnight Skyracer – The Best British all girl bluegrass band, Lion Hotel, Belper. Tickets £15.50. Hotline 01773 853428.

24 Friday May, 8pm in concert – The Melrose Quartet, Sheffield’s premier folk band, Chesterfield Library Theatre. Tickets £16.50.

Concessions £15.50. Ticket Hotline 01773 853428.

SLACKS TRAVEL Luxury coach travel with guaranteed seats & local boarding points

BRITISH COACHING PORTSMOUTH & SOUTHSEA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 06-10 May (HB) £352 GLASSHOUSES & GARDENS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-12 May (HB) £289 MYSTERY WEEKEND . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18-19 May (HB) £123 EASTBOURNE SUSSEX BY THE SEA . . . . . . . . 20-24 May (HB) £345 ISLE OF WIGHT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27-31 May (HB) £311 LONDON POSTAL MUSEUM & SPENCER HOUSE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 02-03 Jun (BB) £168 SCOTLAND ISLE OF BUTE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-14 Jun (HB) £399 SHROPSHIRE DISCOVERY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-14 Jun (HB) £414 LOOE CORNWALL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17-21 Jun (HB) £406 SCARBOROUGH . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19-23 Jun (HB) £313 GREAT YARMOUTH . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20-24 Jun (HB) £399 ISLE OF MAN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Jun-01 Jul (HB) £487 BOSCOMBE DORSET COAST . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Jun-04 Jul (HB) £352 CUMBRIAN CAVALCADE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01-05 Jul (HB) £398 HAMPTON COURT PALACE FLOWER SHOW . . 06-07 Jul (HB) £173 SIDMOUTH . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 09-13 Jul (HB) £390 HISTORIC KENT & HEVER CASTLE . . . . . . . . . . 14-18 Jul (HB) £389 YORKSHIRE RAILS, SAILS & ALES . . . . . . . . . . 15-19 Jul (HB) £407 WYE VALLEY, COTSWOLDS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22-26 Jul (HB) £398 MYSTERY WEEKEND . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27-28 Jul (HB) £134 MID WALES, LLANDRIDOD WELLS . . . . . 28 Jul - 01 Aug (HB) £422 NORFOLK BROADS, SANDRINGHAM HOUSE & THE POPPY LINE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Jul-01 Aug (HB) £403 BETH CHATTO GARDENS & RHS HYDE HAL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 Jul-02 Aug (HB) £230 HAMPTON COURT PALACE & BBC COUNTRYFILE LIVE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 02-03 Aug (HB) £196 SUFFOLK COAST & COUNTRYSIDE. . . . . . . . . 05-09 Aug (HB) £376 HEART OF ENGLAND . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 05-09 Aug (HB) £414 MARY POPPINS (LONDON) . . . . . . . . . . . . 02-03 Mar 2020 (BB) £194

Brand New for 2019 Tower Course Membership £60.00 Are you a?

• Beginner Golfer Looking for your first Handicap?

• Senior Golfer wanting to keep your Handicap?

• Nomadic Golfer wanting a base for your Handicap?

What’s Included?

• Official CONGU Handicap Union affiliation Fees • 3 x 9 Holes on The Tower Course • Reduced Green Fees • 9 Hole Tower Course Competitions For further information please contact the Golf Department on 01332 782 000 Main Road, Morley, Derbyshire, DE7 6DG • www.morleyhayes.com • golf@morleyhayes.com

HOTEL | RESTAURANT | GOLF

EUROPEAN COACHING IRELAND WICKLOW & THE GARDENS OF IRELAND . . 07-11 Jul (HB) £487 GERMANY BLACK FOREST RAIL & SAIL . . . . . . . 31 Jul-07 Aug (HB) £820 SWITZERLAND SWISS CHOCOLATE TRAIN. . . . . . . .24-31 Aug (HB) £824 IRELAND BANTRY BAY & GULF STREAM COAST . . .22-28 Sept (HB) £625 SPAIN CANTABRIA & PICOS DE EUROPA . . . . . . . . . .08-15 Oct (HB) £596 FRANCE REIMS CHRISTMAS MARKET. . . . . . . . . . . . 01-04 Dec (BB) £347

DAY EXCURSIONS EARLY BOOKINGS ADVISABLE

Admission included*

RHS MALVERN SPRING SHOW* STRATFORD-UPON-AVON NORTH YORKSHIRE MYSTERY HUNSTANTON & WELLS NEXT THE SEA RHS CHATSWORTH SHOW* BBC GARDENERS WORLD @ NEC* LLANDUDNO TUTANKHAMUN EXHIBITION LONDON*

Adult / OAP / Child

SAT 11 MAY £42/£42/£23 SAT 18 MAY £23 SAT 25 MAY £25 SAT 06 JUL £28/£28/£14 SAT 08 JUN FROM £38 SAT 08 JUN £40/£39/£33.50 SAT 29 JUN £27/£27/£13.50 SAT 16 NOV £60.35/£57.60/£50.45

AIR HOLIDAYS JERSEY FROM EAST MIDLANDS . . . . . . . . . . VARIOUS DATES FROM £475 GUERNSEY FROM EAST MIDLANDS . . . . . . . VARIOUS DATES FROM £469

Telephone 01629 582826K.V & G.L SLACK LTD, THE TRAVEL CENTRE, UPPER LUMSDALE, MATLOCK, DE4 5LB

Website: www.slackscoaches.co.uk Email: enquiries@slackscoaches.co.uk

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Celebrating 49 years of

Dogs Unleashed Derbyshire

3RD & 4TH AUGUST 2019

22nd - 23rd June 2019

HIGH ACRES FARM, DEWEY LANE, BRACKENFIELD, DERBYSHIRE (A615)

for and NEW

Showmans Engines

ADMISSION:

Steam Traction Engines

Adults £10.00 • OAP’s £5.00 Children (10yrs - 16yrs) £5.00

Commercial Lorries

Under 10yrs Free

Military Vehicles

Fast Track tickets can be purchased through our website

2019

Dogs Unleashed Staffordshire 14th - 15th September 2019

Everything for a doggie fun filled day out suitable for the whole family.

Prices

Online On the gate

Heavy Haulage & Plant

www.cromfordsteamrally.co.uk

Vintage Tractors

FREE ENTERTAINMENT WITH LIVE BANDS

Fair Organs & Rides

in the beer tent Fri & Sat Night

Vintage & Classsic Cars Motorcycles

OPENING TIMES: Saturday 8.30am till late Sunday 8.00am - 5.00pm

Stationary Engines

CAMPING AVAILABLE

On site camping available at both venues

Adults £5.50 £7.00 Children 5 -12 £4.00 £4.50 Family (2 adults + 2 children) £16.00 £20.00

Children under 5 and dogs are FREE

Book reduced priced tickets and camping online at

www.dogsunleashed.co.uk

Recommended on

Tel: 01246 828980 Email: info@dogsunleashed.co.uk

ENQUIRIES K.F. Bowmer: 01629 534487 A. Ryder: 01246 498898 Craft Tent: 07866 790106 Trade Stalls: 01773 834270 Weekend Caravan & Camping: 07523 019523

Country

PRIZE CROSSWORD Win a Family Pass to Dogs Unleashed UltiMutt Doggy Day out at the Bakewell Showground June 22 & 23 2

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Just find the Derbyshire/Nottinghamshire village in the crossword and send your answer to: Crossword Comp. Country Images, Unit 5, Office Village, Keys Road, Alfreton, Derbys DE55 7FQ. Or email competitions@imagespublishing.co.uk First correct entry drawn wins the prize. Terms and conditions apply.

APRIL WINNER D Woodward, Ripley.

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Across: 1 Believe in 4 Make a law 9 Shaped entrance 10 Forever 12 Droop 13 Profanes 16 Swimming pool 18 For pigs 19 Either/? 20 Very 21 Large Number 23 Roman Catholic? 24 Check 27 For animals? 28 Los Angeles 29 Leave Suddenly 31 Reveals 34 Possesses 35 Top card 36 Push away 39 Hair styler 40 Edge 42 Wrong 43 Unbalanced 45 Clear spirit 46 Hit 47 Morse?

Down: 1 Horizontal bar 2 Relative 3 Deny 4 Lies down! 5 Outgoing 6 Remorse 7 Drink 8 Story 14 Make unpleasant 15 Treacle 17 Like home! (two words) 22 Mimic 25 French no 26 Wooden frame 29 Rushing 30 Not deep 32 Attracts 33 Fragment 37 Carries wire 38 Walking implements 41 Push air!

44 Strange craft

THE 88TH

ASHOVER SHOW

NESDAY D E W Please e bsit check we ing n e p o r fo dates and events

14 AUGUST

2019

A TRADITIONAL AGRICULTURAL SHOW FOR ALL OF THE FAMILY TO ENJOY The Rectory Fields, Ashover, Chesterfield, Derbyshire S45 0BA 9.00AM UNTIL DUSK Telephone 01623 811545 ashovershow@aol.com www.ashovershow.co.uk ASHOVER AGRICULTURAL & HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY LTD WORKING IN AID OF THE ASHOVER SHOW

4TH – 6TH MAY – VICTORIAN TRAIN WEEKEND 11TH - 12TH MAY – 175 YEARS OF THE MIDLAND RAILWAY CELEBRATION 25TH MAY – 2ND JUNE – BUTTERLEY BRICK WEEK A very warm welcome to the Midland Railway – Butterley A great day out for all of the family with loads to see and do.

Heritage train rides transport you to a bygone era. Explore two railway museums, the demonstration signal box, a Victorian railwayman’s church and much more. Plus there are narrow gauge, miniature and model railways, shops, buffets, children’s playground and country park. Free parking.

Midland Railway Butterley Butterley Station, Ripley, Derbyshire, DE5 3QZ T: 01773 570140 www.midlandrailway-butterley.co.uk

The Derby Less than 50 yards from the promenade

Blackpool Lights Monday to Friday, 4 days b/b e/m Door to door pick up, Night out to the world famous Funny Girls - £185 pp 30th Sept to 4th Oct or 21st Oct to 25th Oct

3 star AA

Bed and Breakfast and 2019 AA Breakfast award The Derby, North Shore, Blackpool, Lancashire, FY1 2JF 01253 623708 | 07809 143248 | www.thederbyhotel.co.uk

Derby Hotel

www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk | 65

Great News...

risers’ breakfasts to midnight snacks – the food is meticulously prepared, delightfully presented and sublime to taste.

The Blue Danube river cruise, as an example, presents all that Europe’s most cultured the Nile’ river cruise, from river has to offer,offers with itsawealth Cairo to eitherswimming Aswan or EMSA unique and intimate of grandexperience, baroque architecture, are just sample available toLuxor, learners ofaall agesof the medieval cities, picture-perfect exciting to options available. and abilities, from babies adults. towns and the sights that inspired Strauss and Mozart.

Worldwide A cruise to the heart of Europe escorted tours gives opportunity to experience Riviera Travel escorted tours an incredible variety of medieval offer a unique, thrilling and towns and imperial cities, reassuringly uncomplicated from quintessential Bamberg way to travel for discerning to classical Vienna, with their people searching for ‘more than wealth of cultural treasures, a holiday’. Why? Because they plus the world-famous satisfy the desire to explore, to E S T 1 9 9 8 scenery of the dramatic Rhine Gorge. learn about places, to understand Bringing your little ones out their shell.

EAST MIDLANDS SWIMMING ACADEMY The Budapest to the Black cultures and, above all, to live. But Sea river cruise is an incredible all the time safe in the knowledge For more information, contact us on: journey through the Balkans, that a team of experts, whose and explores stunning passion for travel is unrivalled, is Office:the 01623 430093 | Email: office@em-sa.co.uk sights of Kalocsa, Pecs and always at hand and at service. www.em-sa.co.uk Belgrade with its magnificent Customers can discover KalemegdanWe Fortress. it’s insights into the lives, lookThen forward to meeting you!histories off to Pleven passing through the and cultures of some of Iron Gates Gorge and the Djerdap the world’s most exciting locks before visiting Bucharest. destinations.

From exploring Find us on Facebook (Emsa Sally) Known as ‘little Paris’ this gem an ancient iconic landmark to of a capital city captures the visiting a hidden art gallery, from heart with its romantic buildings sampling delicacies in a local and tree-lined boulevards. market to marvelling at Mother 0879 EMSA A6 Learn to swim leaflet Oct 17.indd 1 16/10/2017 These are just some of the Nature’s power from the edge of Do Riviera you have questions about wonderful itineraries that an active volcano... all the while Travel offers in European river tantalised by the Pension? knowledge that your cruising – but there are*so many tomorrow promises even more How much tax freecontinues. cash can more from which to choose. as the journey have?

Whether it’s Awe Grand Tour of China, Canada’s Rocky Worldwide River Cruises Can we now get more Mountaineer, Australia, The wonderful experience of our annuity?

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LEARN TO SWIM at a pool near you.

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For holidays with a difference, Riviera Travel offers the full package! To find out more, contact Martins World Travel in Chesterfield and Bolsover. www.martins-world-travel.co.uk www.1st4cruises.co.uk T: 01246 823763/220020

66 | www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk

ABTA BONDED.

17:50

FRIDAY TO MONDA Y 3rd - 6th & 24th - 27th MAY

Tel: 01457 868011 glossopcaravans.co.uk E N D

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Gallery

A Medley of Arts and Crafts comes to Cromford Mill in the Gothic Warehouse

T

he artists and makers of Medley were brought together

by Chantal Kelly, a stained-glass artist; she was galvanised into action by spending a rain-soaked weekend showing her work in a leaking marquee and resolved to find a better location at an affordable price!

S

andy Hillyer will be exhibiting in the Derbyshire Open Arts at Zinc Home & Gift Coffee Shop on May Bank Holiday weekend 25th, 26th & 27th, open 9am-5pm; 8 Bank Road, Matlock, DE4 3AQ, tel 01629 580187, email hello@zinchomeandgift.co.uk.

Medley An exhibition and sale of work by local artists and makers

Within weeks she happened upon a suitable venue and began recruiting artisans and artists she had met as individuals at various shows and exhibitions to share the space. This group evolved into Medley; they reflect perfectly the current vogue for high quality, individual design and craftsmanship. There are nine artists and makers who will be showing their work this May at the Gothic Warehouse, Cromford Mill, they are all specialists in different disciplines, however, all produce innovative and striking pieces which reflect a high degree of skill and an understanding of their chosen medium.

Together with Chantal are: Ruth Gray-Fine Art, Guy Badham-Photography, Anne Alldread-Textiles, Forget-MeNot-Crafts - Textiles, Firetree- Jewellery, Richard PearsonCeramics, Patrick Kelly-Woodcarving, Scribblings-Wood Turned Pens

Arkwright's Cromford Mill Cromford Canal, Mill Rd, Cromford, Derbyshire.

DE4 3RQ

May 26th - June 2nd 68 | www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk

The Harold and Mary Wilson Collection

P

ersonal mementos belonging to former British Labour Prime Minister Harold Wilson (Lord Wilson of Rievaulx) and Lady Wilson are coming up for auction. Hundreds of their treasured items will be sold by Hansons Auctioneers at Bishton Hall (near Stafford) on Friday May 10.

Background The son of Herbert and Ethel Wilson, he was born on March 11, 1916 in Milnsbridge on the outskirts of Huddersfield in Yorkshire. His father was an industrial chemist and his mother was a school teacher. Harold nursed political dreams from a young age. When he was 8, he visited London where a well-known photograph was taken of him outside 10 Downing Street. At the age of 10 he went with his family to Australia, where he became fascinated with the pomp and glamour of politics. On the way home he told his mother, “I am going to be Prime Minister”.

The auction

Charles Hanson, owner of Hansons Auctioneers, said: “We are truly honoured to be handling this incredible collection which has both political and royal pedigree.” There are photographs illustrating Wilson’s life as a politician, which saw him meeting world leaders such as former US Presidents Lyndon B. Johnson and Richard Nixon, and several other world leaders including former Soviet Union leader Leonid Brezhnev, who gave him a painting that also features in the sale.

The Wilsons’ close connection to the Royal Family becomes apparent through treasured photos of the couple with the Queen and Prince Philip, and there are many Christmas cards from them and from other members of the Royal Family; there is also a 100th birthday card to Lady Wilson from the Queen with a personal message. Especially noteworthy is a watercolour painting by Prince Charles, given to Lady Wilson and accompanied by a handwritten letter; written on Highgrove House headed notepaper, and dated 1998.

This vast collection from his former London home includes everything from his pipes and his passport, to his leather armchair and ashtray. He kept everything – including his Boy Scout badges, which he treasured until the end of his days, along with a multitude of other items, including personal letters and a school story that he penned in 1934 called ‘Perfectly Monstrous’. There is even a book about HP sauce together with a miniature bottle with his name emblazoned upon it. In addition, the rich archive includes photographs of Lord Wilson with TV stars Bruce Forsyth, Penelope Keith, and Morecambe and Wise.

Mr Hanson says: “Hansons has the privilege of handling these precious mementos following instruction from the executors

of the late Lady Wilson’s estate. The items paint a picture of an extraordinary life. Harold Wilson will never be forgotten. He was a man of the people who retained his Yorkshire accent, was Pipe Smoker of the Year in 1965, famously drowned his food in HP sauce, and supported Huddersfield Town Football Club.

We are very proud to honour his memory.”

The Harold and Mary Wilson Collection is due to be sold at Hansons Auctioneers, Bishton Hall, Wolseley Bridge, Stafford ST17 0XN, on May 10.

To find out more, email jspencer@hansonsauctioneers.co.uk or call 01283 733988.

A Prime Minister’s Life: The Collection of Harold and Mary Wilson

Friday 10 May at 11am at Bishton Hall, Wolseley Bridge, Staffs ST17 0XN Preview: Sunday 5 May 12pm to 4pm; Tuesday 7 May 11am to 4pm; Wednesday 8 May 11am to 7pm; Thursday 9 May 9am to 4pm and auction day 9am to 11am

Catalogues and live bidding online at www.the-saleroom.com Printed catalogues: £5 each or £8 by post

Please contact Jim Spencer jspencer@hansonsauctioneers.co.uk www.hansonsauctioneers.co.uk

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Tapas and a Movie To spend 2 or 3 hours in one restaurant it has to be good.

To spend the entire Friday evening at M.A.D.E.@No.18 it has to be exceptional and something different.

It

evening that our taxi delivered us to M.A.D.E. @ No 18; a café-bistro at the top of the old market place in Alfreton. It has a unique style that is reminiscent of the fashionable bistros of the mid 1970s. It’s the place to enjoy scrumptious freshly made breakfasts, lunch with both traditional and Mediterranean dishes or afternoon tea. You can eat in the fully licensed cafe-bistro with its eclectic décor or dine alfresco on the terrace amid a cottage style garden.

More than just a cafe bistro

On Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings, there’s a new venture to accompany their bistro style menu.

We arrived at 6.30 in the evening to enjoy the bistro’s tapas and ‘take in a movie’.

M.A.D.E@No.18

Tapas 5.30-8.30pm

Thursday Friday Saturday

3 Dishes £12

Cocktails, Gins, Wines, Beers To book call 01773 279112

Introducing...

Movies at M.A.D.E.!

www.madeatno18.co.uk

18 Church Street, Alfreton DE55 7AH T: 01773 279112

was early on a Friday

We’ll be showing a selection of films each week at our new cinema at the M.A.D.E.@No18 Cafe.

You can also come and eat in our beautiful Cafe-Bistro or dine Alfresco on our terrace and cottage style garden before your movie.

Open for Breakfast Monday-Thursday 9.30-11 and 9-11 on Friday and Saturday Lunch 11.30-2.30 • Coffee and cake all day

70 | www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk

The interior of the bistro is deceptively spacious.

We introduced ourselves to David, the owner, who showed us to a corner table where we could take in the atmosphere and study the tapas offerings. We nibbled on appetisers of olive oil, diced tomato and aioli on crispy toast while we lingered over our first glass of wine.

Susan and myself chose 3 dishes each that we could share. They arrived in earthenware pots on 2 wooden platters. This is the sort of spread that you want to linger over.

There was a dish of sliced, spicy Chorizo and cherry tomatoes in a honey and red wine dressing. This is a dish to be nibbled between sips of wine. Susan had ordered the calamari: 2 pieces of soft and succulent squid, dusted with flour and lightly grilled which was served with a Jerusalem artichoke purée.

I’d selected the gambas al ajillo: seared prawns in a mild chilli and garlic oil. Full of flavour and very indulgent. Another of my selections was the albonbigas: meatballs in a smokey paprika based tomato sauce.

A joint choice was the traditional Spanish dish of patatas bravas: potatoes served with a spicy sauce of

tomato and mild chilli. Finally, every tapas has to have tortilla Espanola: a slice of a Spanish omelette.

This generous portion was light and packed with the flavours of garlic, onion, potato and peppers.

David was busy all evening; chatting to customers, dispensing wine and taking bookings for M.A.D.E. @ No 18’s very popular, mid-morning breakfast.

There’s something magical about going to the cinema. The thought of enjoying a beautifully crafted piece of entertainment, surrounded by a few likeminded people, uninterrupted; all there and of one mind to enjoy the evening.

As 8 o’clock approached we made our way, along with some of the other diners, to the ‘cinema’. With only 30 or so seats, split into 6 rows, the cinema isn’t large but the screen fills the end of the room and so occupies almost your entire field of vision. We settled in to our seats, re-claimed theatre seats from a London venue, with our popcorn and a bottle of chilled sauvignon blanc. There’s a lot of legroom

between the rows; we had room for a narrow table to put our glasses on.

This evening the film was Widows; a popcorn heist flick with a feminist soul. The original story was written by Lynda la Plante and serialised, many years ago, on ITV. Although the action in this up to date American version, has moved from London to Chicago director Steve McQueen has retained the original story’s concept of powerful female lead characters.

There has been a screening of a diverse selection of films from a matinee showing of Mary Poppins Returns, aimed at a younger audience, to an early evening James Dean in Rebel Without a Cause and one of my favourite’s: the original Blade Runner, The Director’s Cut; another Friday evening treat; all parceled up and delivered in one place.

It was 10.30 before we climbed back into our taxi.

We’d enjoyed a memorable 4 hours of fabulous food, hospitality and entertainment.

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taste

derbyshire

Yummy

As

childcare costs rise, two thirds of mums surveyed* said they would love to run a business from home. Taste Derbyshire spoke to three mums who have made the dream a reality by turning their passion for food into a family-friendly business.

Sitting in a sun-drenched café in Derbyshire, Michelle Belsom and I are talking about our love of food and whether to indulge in a cookie with the giant Maltesers, the brownie with the cherries on top or plump for our mutual favourite; the fruit scone.

Michelle offers to treat me as she’s not had time to eat. “I work lunch-times as a cook at a nursery school. I do 18 hours a week so I’m around to do the school pick-up and drop-off for my five-year-old son Jack,” she smiles. “It also gives me time for my side-hustle.”

The side-hustle is her fledgling business Pickleberry Preserves, inspired by her son’s baby nickname ‘pickle’ and the berries she packs into her jars. Michelle, of Mickleover,is one of the increasing band of mothers attracted by the flexibility of becoming their own boss.

The mum economy has grown by 30 per cent since 2013 according to a survey commissioned by eBay. Far from being a side-hustle, mums are helping to generate £7.2bn in revenues and support 204,000 jobs.

Michelle Belsom and Jack

Ali Wand and family

“I always wanted to have a business related to food – it’s something I’ve loved doing ever since I was a child cooking with my nanna June. She was a game-keeper’s wife who made everything and when I got married in 2010 she gave me her preserving pan,” says Michelle (36), who was originally from North Yorkshire. “I’d always made cakes for family and friends and people were always telling me how much they loved the jam and curd fillings.

When Jack was due to start school last September, I launched Pickleberry Preserves and realised I’d found my true passion – and a use for nanna’s pan.”

As Michelle describes the process of perfecting her range of jams, marmalades and chutneys – she often rings the changes seasonally so look out for a summer special flavoured with Buck’s fizz – it turns out she must be the only woman in the country happy to spend Saturday

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nights in a hairnet slaving over a hot stove.

“I spend a lot of time over steaming pans of sugary fruit, I’m not sure it will catch on as a facial but I love every minute,” she laughs. “I studied criminology and I’ve had corporate jobs but, throughout everything, I’ve had that deep connection with cooking and food. It’s at the heart of every family event, happy or sad – it’s what makes those occasions memorable. When I’m cooking, I’m at my most relaxed. If you’re going to run a business around your family, it may mean a lot of long hours – so make sure it’s something you really believe in.”

She claims not to mind the packed time-table. “I get such wonderful feed-back and it’s great when customers send me pictures of my preserves on a table at someone’s Christmas dinner or party and I realise something I made was part of their life,” she says. “Running my business means I can plan my hours around Jack. He’s such a sweetheart. At one of the fairs, he stood by my stall yelling ‘It’s red so buy the jam’. I call him my helper-elf.

My husband Rob is also a great help with my labelling, accounts and setting up at food fairs. He’s also there to say ‘You’ve got this’ when I’m having a wobble.”

“Support from family, friends and a network of business people can make the difference between success or failure,” says Jenny Ryan, mum-of-two and founder of the Derby-based Women Rocking Business social networking group. “There’s a misconception that working from home means sitting on the sofa in your PJs and playing around on social media. The reality is lots of early starts and 2am finishes and it can be very isolating. I meet women who’ve only spoken to their children, partner and the postman all week. It’s not the easy option.”

Jenny, a self-employed photographer, has been there and suffered burn-out as a result. “I think women are still seduced by the idea of ‘having it all.’ It’s tempting to think

Mummies

you can run a home, family and a business and have the house perfect again when your partner gets home. You have to make peace with the fact you can only do one thing at a time. If that means turning down work so you can help the children with homework or go to the park – that’s fine.”

Ali Wand (38), who runs the Beautiful Food Company from her home in Quarndon, can testify to the benefits of Women Rocking Business meet-ups. “They are very informal, often held at coffee shops, and it’s great to feel part of a community,” she says. “Working from home can be isolating.”

Although her mum is an ‘amazing cake-maker’, Ali discovered her talent for baking almost by chance.

“My mum was retiring and her colleagues were talking about getting her a ready-made cake and I just thought a badly baked homemade cake would be better than a shop-bought one,” says Ali who is mum to Charlotte (14) and Lucy (12).

“I used mum’s old Mark and Spencer recipe book to make a fruit cake and it worked beautifully. From then on, I always made birthday cakes for my girls, and friends started to ask if I’d make ones for them. But I was too self-conscious to charge very much and I realised selling to friends was a non-starter as a business.”

When Ali moved to Quarndon in 2017 with her partner Chris Hands and his children Lexy (12) and Madison (10), she realised all those years perfecting her baking and sugar-craft techniques presented a ‘now or never’ opportunity.

“We moved from South Normanton to Derby just before Charlotte was due to start at senior school. I didn’t like the thought of her coming home to an empty house so I left my sales and admin’ job to start-up the cake business again with the plan of doing corporate afternoon teas,” she explains “The turning point came when I had a stall at a Christmas fair in Ashbourne and made some iced gingerbread biscuits in shapes like reindeers and baubles.

They were a sell out and so I made some ballet themed shortbreads and posted pictures on social media and got an immediate order for twenty boxes from a dance school.”

Ali realised she had stumbled across a gap in the market for bespoke biscuits; “Unfortunately, it took about 15 goes to recreate that first batch,” she laughs. “The mixture was either too hard and cracked or too soft and it would lose its shape. I think I cried over a pile of crumbs a few times until I perfected the recipe.”

Looking at Ali’s social media pages, it’s hard to believe these picture-perfect bakes – wizards, dinosaurs, rabbits and rockets - are all from the kitchen of a hard-working mum. Or that she felt nervous about taking her wares to local cafes and shops.

“It took a few months for me to pluck up the courage to take a basket of biscuits around shops and cafes. The first one was POINTSIX on Kedleston Road in Derby.

I turned up without an appointment and with a little speech prepared and I think all I manged to say was I live up the road and make biscuits. The owner, Jen Simmons, was so great and just said her children would love them and placed an order. This gave my confidence a real boost.”

“The children have been wonderful – not just as tasters.

They help me to box and label and they still love my bakes.

I asked Lucy if she’d like a cake for her birthday and she said she’d rather have my biscuits.”

Katie Botha (37), of Risley, is another mum whose flair with food lent itself to a business idea; “I have always been a foodie. My husband Ant is from South Africa and I’m from Australia so we’re both used to a culture of eating outdoors and enjoying healthy fresh food,” she says when I ask how she came to launch Graze Derbyshire, which offers bespoke gourmet food-boxes, platters and special occasion table spreads. “Ant is a cricket coach and I’m sporty so we’ve always eaten well and our children eat what we’re having. I try to chop the fruit and vegetables and mix them up so the plates are colourful. When friends came over with their children I’d put out a table of healthy food, dips and nuts as well as a few sweet treats and they’d eat the lot. That’s when they said I should do this professionally.”

Katie Botha and Jesse

Katie began her business 18 months ago, initially makingup boxes and platters. “I started with delivery boxes for date nights and teachers’ end of term presents and the business grew by word of mouth. I was asked to do bigger events and parties. In fact, it did get a little crazy with orders at the end of last year but I’m lucky to have a network of friends who can help and I get to meet some wonderful people,” says Katie who is mum to Jesse (10) and Jonty who is three.

“I still work four days a week as a project co-ordinator for a building firm so it’s important not to over-commit as time with the family is so precious. I go to Jesse’s sports fixtures and support the children as much as I can so it helps to have a structure to the week.” She smiles; “My advice to mums who run a business from home is to cut yourself some slack. When Jesse was younger, I used to like my house to be perfect but I know there’s more important things than a bit of dust.”

Contact Jenny Ryan of Women Rocking Business through her website www.womenrockingbusiness.co.uk Contact Katie Botha at Graze Derbyshire by email; grazederbyshire@gmail.com To commission Ali Wand for cakes or biscuits, contact via the website www.thebeautifulfoodco.co.uk For information of stockist or to order from Pickleberry Preserves; email Michelle at pickleberrypreserves@gmail.com • Survey by Direct Line for Business

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

www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk | 73

The Peacock at Rowsley The Peacock is a luxury, boutique hotel and restaurant, ideally located at the heart of the Peak District. The restaurant is now serving its new seasonal spring a la carte, bar and tasting menus and also offers a lighter lunch menu throughout the week, offering a regular sized starter and half-sized main course for ÂŁ24.25 per person.

Tuesday afternoons on board our travelling 1950s dining car from 18th June until 24th September

Call 01629 733518 or email reception@thepeacockatrowsley.com

Specialist coffee & loose-leaf teas All day breakfast, cobs & Paninis Lunches & Afternoon teas Vegan, vegetarian & gluten free Corporate buffets & hampers Delivery Car park & patio at rear Free WIFI Dog friendly areas Cyclists welcome Broadwalk, 5 Dale Road North, Darley Dale DE4 2FS Tel: 01629 735050

74 | www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk

Buy the latest edition of Derbyshire’s favourite walking guide 14 carefully selected walks around Derbyshire Walk Derbyshire 5 is available through selected outlets around the County for only £2.99!

or buy on-line at www.walkderbyshire.co.uk

Trafford Lowe Funeral Services 24 Hour Personal Service with prompt attention An independently owned company which offers a traditional and caring service with attention to detail.

Proudly serving Somercotes, Alfreton, Selston and all surrounding areas

Call Us On: 01773 602 593

Providers of Funeral Plans

Valley Funeral Plan

166 Somercotes Hill, Somercotes, Alfreton, Derbyshire, DE55 4HU

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Get Set for Care Home Open Day

C

are Home Open Day is now in its 7th year.

This year’s theme is celebrating the role of arts in care. It encourages homes to open their doors to celebrate a different theme each year, with a few key values at its heart: friendship, making connections and celebrating older and vulnerable people.

Professor Martin Green OBE, Chief Executive of Care England says: “We have learned so much from the previous seven years of Care Home Open Day, and 2019 is well on its way to being a fantastic celebration marking the importance of the arts in care”.

so much more. In short they are often a community’s best kept secret – and we want Care Home Open Day 2019 to change that! We want everyone to understand just what an excellent resource their local care home is, and to come and join in the celebrations.”

To learn more about the day, please visit Care Home Open Day website: www.carehomeopenday.org.uk

Care Home Open Day 2019 will take place on Friday 28 June 2019. Care homes are encouraged to throw open their doors and participate.

Vic Rayner, Executive Director, NCF says: “Care homes play such a central role in local communities. They provide excellent care for community members, employment and volunteering opportunities for local people, excellent space for local organisations to meet and gather, offer vital support for local carers and

New Care Home Brings UK First to Hucknall

B

uddleia House, which opened in April, is one of the first care homes in the UK to adopt the Montessori approach to dementia care – a unique and innovative approach to person centred care which has already seen success in Australia and Canada.

enabling and giving people purpose. For example, we’ve been able to support a gentleman with dementia to become independent in using the bathroom through unique design, signage and support which has given him back his dignity and control.

Buddleia House is the sixth care home under the Milford Care Group family, who currently boast five homes all rated ‘Good’ by the CQC. It is the second home located in Hucknall, alongside Hazelgrove Care Home, which is the only care home in Hucknall to have been awarded the highest Band 5 Quality Award and the Dementia Quality Mark by Nottinghamshire County Council, as well as the ‘Good’ rating by the CQC.

“A lady had lost the ability to eat independently and by supporting her with techniques and Montessori approaches she was able to re-learn the skill of using a spoon, which has helped her to regain her independence in eating. This has given her a new lease of life and the family is so grateful.

“People living with dementia, and their loved ones, face immense challenges” explains Lorraine Poundall, Home Manager of both Hazelgrove and Buddleia House.

“Standard care homes do not always specifically aim to address these challenges in the way that Buddleia House will. In fact, a ‘typical’ care home environment can often exacerbate and further confuse a person with dementia.

Buddleia House has been created for the person living with dementia, using best practice in care, design, food and nutrition, and methods to enable the person to feel like they belong, have purpose, feel part of their community and to be fulfilled.

The Montessori approach to care aims to enable individuals to live as independently as possible and have a place in their community to contribute and thrive. Its key principles focus on enhancing the home environment, improving the quality of life of residents and giving their lives purpose.

Residents can enjoy and engage in daily living in Buddleia House. Our community has an indoor garden area, a pub, library area, a pantry, sweet shop, creative art and music areas, and lots of other engaging facilities. A therapeutic garden has been designed to give residents the opportunity to pot plants in the green house, feed the chickens, have a game of bowling on the specially made bowling green, enjoy a drink in the beer garden or the tea house, and much more.

“We have started implementing the Montessori methods in our group and we’ve already been able to change the day to day quality of life by

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“Other residents have roles and purpose by helping their community.

Examples include hanging out washing, folding laundry, helping in the garden and laying the tables. Other residents who were thought to have lost the ability to read are now taking part in the book club with specially written books for people with dementia. This has given them a purpose in their daily life and also helps to reduce some of the challenges that dementia can cause.”

Buddleia House is now taking enquiries and is offering personal tours for those who would like to find out more about both the home and this unique approach to care which is being introduced to the UK and how this could benefit their loved ones.

CARE HOME

Book a personal tour today Stunning new care home in your area Now taking bookings for personal tours

Buddleia House has been designed so that residents can enjoy and engage in daily living, from potting plants to feeding the chickens or enjoying a game of bowls Dementia Care | Respite Care | Long-term Care | Day Care www.buddleia-house.co.uk | buddleiahouse@milfordcare.co.uk | 0115 968 0900

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Ivonbrook and Darley Dale Care Homes

Now Open For New Residents I f you are looking for long-term care for yourself, a relative or friend, we would like to invite you to visit our newly modernised home and see what we have to offer.

Ivonbrook is a purpose-built, friendly, independent home providing long-term residential care for people who can look after themselves to a certain extent but who may need help with some, or all, daily tasks such as eating regular meals, personal care, mobility and taking medication.

The overall ambience of our homes is key to the services we provide and we are actively promoting a sense of community whereby residents can socialise, get to know each other and be involved in the day to day lives of the homes. We have fully refurbished bedrooms, each with the latest dementiafriendly furniture, integrated call system, at screen television and great views of the surrounding countryside. There are comfortable lounges for people who enjoy socialising, games and entertainment, a dining room leading out into our enclosed sensory garden and a snug for people who like to read or listen to music.

There is a varied programme of in-house entertainment and activities for those who want to take part and, now the better weather is coming, residents are looking forward to getting out and about.

In recent months our team of dedicated staff have been working hard to introduce a new approach to living at both homes with the emphasis on person-centered care, independence, choice, well-being and enjoying life. This means that we are identifying, and focusing on, the elements of care, support and treatment that matter most to each resident that chooses to live at our home. We also recognise the need to understand and take on board the regulations governing care homes in the UK. We do this by means of our daily working practices and also through our comprehensive training schedule, which is designed to enhance the existing skills of our staff.

For both Ivonbrook and Darley Hall residents, in the grounds we have a marquee and large lawn for summertime activities.

You are welcome to come and have a look round, just simply contact one of our managers.

Ivonbrook Properties Ivonbrook Residential Care Home Eversleigh Rise, Darley Bridge Matlock, Derbyshire, DE4 2JW P: 01629 735306 78 | www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk

Darley Hall Residential Care Home Two Dales, Park Lane, Matlock, Derbyshire, DE4 2FB P: 01629 735770

“A new career at 57?

I didn’t think it was possible!

Sheila Wheeler - Bluebird Care

If you would like to make a difference, consider joining our award-winning team!

Please see website for further details

Bluebird Care Derbyshire Dales & Amber Valley 6 Bridge Street, Belper DE56 1AX 01773 880055 e: ambervalley@bluebirdcare.co.uk @BluebirdCareAmberValley www.bluebirdcare.co.uk/amber-valley

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Fashion Day at Jillian Hart

New s l a v i arr

N

ew to Clarkes this season is the latest Joe Brown Spring Collection! Full of vibrant colours, intricate details and awesome designs, everything you need to stand out this season. Choose from the latest selection of dresses, jackets, skirts, tops and tunics, the perfect mix to let your personality shine! Clarkes of Ripley 8-18 Grosvenor Road, Ripley and 30-32 King Street, Belper.

80 | www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk

O

n Thursday the 16th May at Jillian Hart there is an exclusive fashion event with two seated fashion shows at 11.30am and 2.00pm. The event is an ideal way to view the new 2019 collections and be inspired with ideas and styles for the summer season. Customers will receive 15% discount off Joseph Ribkoff items purchased on the day. As this event is extremely popular, please telephone the shop to reserve your place, Jillian and her staff look forward to seeing you!

For more information telephone 01332 347647 or call in to the shop at 40-44 Babington Lane, Derby.

QUE WOMEN

Summer Ranges Now Arriving

Stunning collection of occasion wear Hats, Fascinators, Handbags and Shoes to match 40-44 Babington Lane Derby Tel: 01332 347647

Free personal styling service

Opening Times: Monday - Saturday 9.30am - 5.00pm

13 Church Street, Ripley, Derbyshire, DE5 3BU T:01773 742459

New Season - New Brands - New Look!

Friendly personal service from assistants who care, in a truly independent store that’s big enough to stock the quality brands you want.

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

Joules White Stuff Seasalt Weird Fish Olsen

Tigi Mistral Pomodoro Soyaconcept Luca Vanucci

Viz a viz Joe Brown Barbour Espirt Superdry

8-18 Grosvenor Road, Ripley Tel: 01773 742151 Ladies Fashion at our Belper store includes Mistral, Esprit, Red Cuckoo, Luca Vanucci, Weird Fish, Barbour and more 30-32 King Street, Belper, Telephone Tel: 01773 525358

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New s l a v i arr

H

and made in platinum this fine white 1.70ct brilliant cut diamond is surrounded by a halo of smaller diamonds to create the perfect piece of jewellery.

N

ew to Que Women is Orientique, a brand who specialise in natural fabrics. The cotton, linen and rayon used in all their garments has been carefully selected from some of the worlds’ finest mills and is woven specifically for the Orientique range. This combination of exquisite print and Orientique shape makes every Orientique garment something unique. Now available from Que Women, 13 Church Street, Ripley.

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

L

afont eyewear collections are subtly rebellious and discreetly avant-garde with each frame full of surprises. Available from Hurst Opticians along with a fabulous range of designer frames. Hurst Opticians, High Street, Ripley.

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When I mentioned to someone that I was going to meet John and Ben Stevenson, owners of John Stevenson Jewellers, their immediate reaction was, “Ah, a real jeweller!” That’s a fine accolade to have in business, one of being at the top of your profession and being well respected as such.

A Reputation Built on Experience

J

OHN Stevenson Jewellers’ success and reputation have been built on the highest standards of integrity, personal service, product knowledge and technical expertise. They are quite rightly recognised as jewellers ‘of distinction’, ‘bespoke’ jewellers and quality diamond merchants.

An official Omega service store, they also repair and service such prestigious watch-maker names as Rolex, Cartier, Breitling, Longines and Tag Heuer.

On approaching the shop, it is soon apparent that John Stevenson seems to know everyone who passes by. Always offering a friendly and warm greeting to passers-by and customers alike, John is the epitome of a gentleman in business.

John’s son, Ben, is every bit as friendly and charming as his father, and it’s soon easy to understand why their family-owned business is synonymous with quality and excellence of service. John’s experience covers a staggering fifty-nine years in the jewellery industry, a career which started originally as a sales representative.

This early experience helped him considerably when he initially opened his first shop.

Ben, who used to come into the shop from being just twelve years old, explained that their three main areas of business consist of new jewellery sales, repairs and the purchase and sale of pre-owned Rolex watches. But, there’s much more to these categories than meets the eye. For instance, sourcing stones for bespoke items takes Ben all over the world.

Above: Above: Ben (left) and John Stevenson at BaselWorld, the world’s largest jewellery exhibition.

“When I see a stone, whether it’s a sapphire, ruby, emerald or diamond, I can immediately visualise how to use it to best effect,” says Ben. This kind of vision can only come with experience, an attribute that Ben has in abundance, having spent over twenty years in Bond Street in London.

If he comes across the right stone, he will buy it, knowing exactly what cut and setting are best for it. Very soon, the latest, original piece of jewellery will appear in the shop window.

If someone is looking for a piece of jewellery for a special occasion, John and Ben are only too happy to design a bespoke and original creation. This makes the item personal, unique and the perfect gift.

The most recent addition to the shop window is a beautiful range of limited-edition bronze sculptures. “We work with the finest sculptors in their field,” says Ben. “These highly-skilled craftsmen produce works such as Country Pursuits, British Wildlife, Birds and Stags. This is a group we call ‘The Derbyshire Stags.’”

“What about the pre-owned Rolex and Omega side of the business?” I asked. Basically, if a customer wants a new or pre-owned Rolex, he can simply ask Ben and he will scour the market, however rare the edition. “But,” says Ben, “that’s just the beginning. Once the item is found, wherever it is in the world, the exchange rate has to be taken into account. That rate can be critical to getting the right price for our clients.” John and Ben monitor the foreign exchange market constantly and then strike when the rate is best.

Servicing and repairs are an important part of the business, and all makes and models imaginable can be restored to perfect working order and back into pristine condition.

John and Ben are passionate about what they do and that shines through.

Blending enthusiasm with a relaxed, genial approach puts customers at ease, and creates a thoroughlyenjoyable shopping experience. This gives John Stevenson Jewellers the edge and the right to be called ‘Jewellers of Distinction’. GP

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The Clarins revolutionary ‘Volume Booster Complex’ Proven ‘Lash-Thickening’ effectiveness Clarins laboratories have developed a new ‘Volume Booster’ Complex: an unprecedented combination of key ingredients that help thicken lashes. With repeated application, your lashes increase in volume. Lash volume increases +17.6%* after 4 weeks of use.

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Volume: At the heart of the formula are carnauba wax powder and cassie flower forming a film on lashes to coat and shape each lash.

Strength: Lashes are strengthened through the action of the panthenol contained in the formula.

Harmony 2 Deep Black eye liner Platinum Grey eye liner Essential Brown eye liner Clarins Red lip liner

Definition: Ultra-supple brush fibres gently hug lashes to help even application and intense clump-free colour. The conical tip provides precise application to the inner and outer corners of the eye.

The four retractable colours are easy to apply and perfect for any complexion.

Supra Volume Mascara is dermatologist and ophthalmologist tested. *Clinical Study: evaluation of lash care effect on bare lashes – 30 women – 4 weeks

For more information and to buy online visit www.clarins.com

Mascara Supra Volume This mascara has a lovely full brush which makes application nice and easy, it also builds length nice and smoothly without having lumpy bits. In all, I found it to be a great produce as always from Clarins. JP

84 | www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk

Colour Pen Great idea to have 3 eyeliners and 1 lipliner in one applicator. It’s really easy to use, colours are great and blend well.

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On The Road

Toyota National Brit Award For Ilkeston Car Dealer

A

family run car dealership in Ilkeston has been crowned with a Toyota BRiT Award for an outstanding display of performance! Rather than awards for musical accomplishments, the BRiT (Best Retailer in Town) Awards are an assessment across the UK by Toyota, for which Ron Brooks in Derby Road Ilkeston won the top overall prize, Retailer of the Year. The awards were presented at the St Pancras Renaissance Hotel London.

Year Award, Ron Brooks Managing Director Kevin Slack, said: “In the modern day and age, the way people buy cars is beginning to change.

“Regardless of this change, as a familyrun business, we continue to make sure the customer is always at the forefront of everything we do, whether it concerns a car sale or service.’’

“It’s fantastic to know that the Ron Brooks

way of thinking is still applauded and recognised by Toyota as the best practice to help customers with all their motoring needs.”

Founded in 1962, Ron Brooks has been supplying new and used vehicles to customers across the country for more than 56 years.

Having set up the location as a dedicated Toyota dealership over 45 years ago, the Ilkeston branch serves as one of the longest running Toyota centres in the UK.

Of 182 centres in the running, Ron Brooks was nominated for three awards, taking the win on the top spot as the best Toyota Retailer in the UK measured against seven criteria.

There were 14 prizes in total for categories including awards for customer service, aftersales, performance and more. The Ron Brooks Ilkeston and Mansfield region was placed first nationally and second in the ‘People’ award which judges the qualifications and experience of staff in each department.

Announcing the winner of the top prize, comedian Lenny Henry said: “To win this award, a centre must deliver on all categories.”

Upon being awarded with the Retailer of the

TOYOTA C-HR DYNAMIC SELF-CHARGING HYBRID FROM £1,245 Advance Payment* on the Motability Scheme

✔ Fully insured for two drivers ✔ Servicing, maintenance and repair included ✔ Full breakdown assistance ✔ Tyre replacement and windscreen repair included

To arrange a test drive contact us at:

Ron Brooks Ilkeston

Ron Brooks Mansfield

Derby Road Ilkeston DE7 5FH 0115 882 0233

Acorns, Oak tree lane Mansfield NG18 3HG 01623 240054

ronbrooks.co.uk/toyota/

Model shown is C-HR Dynamic 5 door Coupe FWD Hybrid 1.8 VVT-i Auto. Official fuel consumption figures in mpg (1/100km): 55.0 (5.1) – 57.6 (4.9). Combined CO2 86 g/km. Figures are provided for comparability purposes; only compare fuel consumption and CO2 figures with other cars tested to the same technical procedures. These figures may not reflect real life driving results. Fuel consumption and CO2 produced varies significantly depending on a number of factors, including the accessories fitted (post-registration), driving style, conditions, speed and vehicle load. All models and grades are certified according to the World Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure (WLTP), which replaces the New European Driving Cycle test procedure (NEDC). All CO2 figures quoted are NEDC equivalent. This means the CO2 figures are based on the new WLTP test procedure but calculated (using a standard European calculation method) to allow comparison with the NEDC test procedure and will be used to calculate vehicle tax on first registration. All mpg figures quoted are full WLTP figures. More information can be found by visiting: www.vehiclecertification-agency.gov.uk/fcb/wltp.asp *Model shown is C-HR Dynamic 5 door Coupe FWD Hybrid 1.8 VVT-i Auto at £1,245 Advance Payment. Subject to availability. Available as part of the Motability Contract Hire Scheme. Please note that a total of 60,000 miles over three years are allowed on the Motability Contract Hire Scheme. Offer valid between 1st April 2019 and 30th June 2019. Motability Scheme vehicles are leased to customers by Motability Operations Limited (Registered Company No. 1373876), City Gate House, 22 Southwark Bridge Road, London, SE1 9HB. To qualify you must be in receipt of the Higher Rate Mobility Component of Disability Living Allowance (DLA), the Enhanced Rate Mobility Component of Personal Independence Payment (PIP), the War Pensioners’ Mobility Supplement (WPMS) or the Armed Forces Independence Payment (AFIP) and applications must be made with participating dealers between 1st April 2019 and 30th June 2019. Prices are correct at time of print, are subject to availability and may change.

2019_MOTAB_C-HR Hybrid Dynamic_RonBrooks.indd 86000010_170x260_Q2 | www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk

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Five years to get to Ant! I’ll get to the Ant bit soon so bear with me but first…

I

love words. For instance what about Anomaly? What does it mean and how do I use it? Will I ever use it? Who thought of it? Why? Let’s give it a go.

Anomaly: Dictionary meaning. Something that deviates from what is standard, normal or expected. Ok I get that but how does it work?

Example: The garden centre proudly proclaimed on a huge sign. “We advise, we carry, we sell, we wrap, we load.

The anomaly: We couldn’t find anyone!

Lesson. In this instance the service deviated from what I expected in five areas due to the the fact no one was on hand so the services on offer just couldn’t happen. So which aspect of anomaly did that come under? It deviated from what was expected. Or even what is normal!

Example 2. A Welsh farm food shop statement. “All our produce is from local producers”.

The anomaly: At the checkout the guy told us that although they had a bakery the bread was from a big supermarket chain!

Lesson: Supermarket bread was not what I expected from a local farm food shop.

So which aspect of anomaly did that come under? It deviated from what was expected.

The Oxford English Dictionary (OED) is an amazing publication of 600,000 words, including anomaly, and 3.5 million quotations that took 70 years to compile and is the accepted authority on the English language Originally planned by the Philological Society in 1857 as a ten year project it soon became obvious that this estimate was wildly off the mark and after five years they had only got to the word Ant! I told

90 | www.countryimagesmagazine.co.uk

you I’d get to the ant. The enormity of the task was soon realised and more weight was added to it as the Oxford University Press and Scottish lexicographer and philologist Sir James Augustus Henry Murray began work in earnest.

The dictionary was finally finished in 1928.

Sadly Murray, having dedicated his life to the task, did not see its completion as he died in 1915. But, is a dictionary really ever finished? The answer is a resounding no. Language is alive and changes rapidly, especially if words from other countries are brought into play as OED has embraced.

Over the 150 years since its inception, the OED has been continuously updated. In fact from its original ten volumes of 400,000 words it now boasts 600,000.

Quite unsurprisingly this dictionary story has had its fascinating aspects. For instance one of its major contributors, who, during his life submitted around 10,000 words for inclusion was an ex Union Army surgeon who in 1872 had shot George Merritt on a dark London street. A case of mistaken identity or the work of a madman? William Chester Minor was found legally innocent of murder, and was “detained in safe custody until Her Majesty’s pleasure is

known”, a fact unbeknown to Sir James Augustus Henry Murray at first. It’s a fascinating story that you won’t find on the OED website.

So how do I know all this? In 2000 I came across a book by author Simon Winchester entitled ‘The Surgeon of Crowthorne’. It’s a most fascinating book following the life of Dr William Chester Minor an inmate of the Broadmoor Asylum for the criminally insane.

The film “The Professor and the Madman” (allegedly released this month but not so just yet!) starring Mel Gibson, Sean Penn, Natalie Dormer and others, including Steve Coogan, is released based on the book the ‘Surgeon of Crowthorne’.

The book is brilliant, I do hope that the film, when it eventually hits the screen, lives up to it.

It would be such an anomaly if it didn’t. I’ll let you apply the science.

GP

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